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Dr. Howard Cooke will be providing free oral cancer screenings April 15 in Dallas.

In honor of Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, two local oral surgery practices will offer free oral cancer screenings. They will be available:

  • April 15 from 2 to 5 pm at Metroplex Surgical Arts – 7988 W. Virginia Dr., Suite 200, Dallas, Texas, 75237
  • April 16 from 11 am to 1 pm at Oral Surgery Associates of North Texas (OSANT) – 540 W. Frontier Parkway, Suite 100, Prosper, Texas 75078.

To participate, arrive at either clinic during its designated date and times, and ask for a free cancer screening. The screenings are part of a joint partnership with the Head & Neck Cancer Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness of oral, head and neck cancer.

April is widely recognized as Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, a time to increase awareness of the condition, risk factors, statistics and screenings. The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be 60,480 new cases of oral cavity or oropharyngeal (middle throat) cancer – with 13,150 deaths attributed to it – in 2026.

“The good news is oral cancer has a survival rate of 80-90% when diagnosed early, according to the Head & Neck Cancer Foundation. That’s why screenings like this are important,” said Howard F. Cooke, DMD, MS, MBA, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon with Metroplex Surgical Arts. “For most patients, we recommend yearly screenings by a qualified healthcare professional as well as monthly self-exams.”

OSANT’s Phillip Newton, DDS, MD, also recommends yearly screenings and monthly self-examinations to most patients. For monthly self-examinations, he recommends using a bring light and mirror to look for anything out of the ordinary, such as lumps, swelling, bleeding, white or red patches, or sores that won’t heal.

“If you find anything out of the ordinary, get it checked out as soon as possible,” said Dr. Newton. “Don’t wait until you’re in pain because you might not feel pain during the initial stages.” 

According to the CDC, some additional symptoms to watch for include difficulty performing daily functions like breathing, speaking and chewing or swallowing food.

The American Cancer Society reports that the average age of people diagnosed with these cancers is 64 and that one in five cases occur in people younger than 55. Some risk factors to consider include smoking and alcohol use, genetic predisposition, nutrition, mouth/face injuries, oral hygiene and certain medical conditions/diseases.

Located in Dallas, Metroplex Surgical Arts is a full scope oral and maxillofacial surgery practice led by Dr. Cooke, who is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, the highest credential that can be obtained in the specialty, according to the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Dr. Newton is also a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. He leads OSANT’s Prosper clinic. OSANT has locations in Dallas, Allen, Plano, Cedar Hill, Rowlett, McKinney and Prosper.

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TXWF High Tech Rising

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) has announced that High Tech Rising (formerly High Tech High Heels), a nonprofit incubated at Texas Women’s Foundation 25 years ago, will receive its Special Recognition Award at the upcoming 2026 Leadership Forum & Awards Celebration on April 29.

High Tech Rising is dedicated to achieving equitable representation for women in the STEM workforce, creating pathways for women to achieve economic, security, stability and success in alignment with TXWF’s mission.   

Karen Hughes White, Texas Women’s Foundation president and CEO, said, “We are so proud to celebrate High Tech Rising. What began as a quiet movement led by The Women of TI in 2001 has become a regional force for good, with more than $2 million awarded in scholarships and support for girls in STEM. High Tech Rising is building the next generation of leaders.”

Laura Steffek, president of High Tech Rising, said, “Texas Women’s Foundation’s Special Recognition Award is a powerful milestone as High Tech Rising embarks on our next chapter. Twenty-five years ago, we began as a small group of colleagues at Texas Instruments who saw a critical gap in the STEM pipeline and formed High-Tech High Heels to help solve it. Every young woman deserves the opportunity to pursue the STEM career of her choice, limited only by her talent, aspiration and willingness to do the work. Not all girls have that opportunity today. This award belongs to the pioneers who started this journey in 2001, the hundreds of board members and volunteers who have fueled our growth, and most importantly, the 89,000+ young women we have served.”

In addition to honoring High Tech Rising at the 2026 Leadership Forum & Awards Celebration, TXWF will honor seven outstanding women:

Five Maura “Women Helping Women” Award honorees:

And two Young Leader Award honorees:

Sponsorships, ticket packages and tickets are available for purchase: www.txwf.org/leadership. Forum information: https://txwf.org/join-us/events/lfac-event/lfac-award-leadership-forums/ 

About Texas Women’s Foundation:

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) raises funds from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support nearly $5 million in investments each year to help eliminate the barriers to women’s economic security, stability and success through targeted research and advocacy, intentional grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $90 million in grantmaking in support of Texas women, their families and their futures, and another $25 million in research, advocacy and educational programs for a total impact of $115 million over the last 40 years. As TXWF prepares for its next 40 years, the organization’s vision for a strong and vibrant Texas for all will remain at the forefront of its work.

TXWF’s targeted research into the issues impacting the economic security of Texas women and families will continue to guide its work. The biannual “Economic Issues for Women in Texas Report” also provides corporate and community leaders, and state and local lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the mission-aligned investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a values-based portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits that align with its mission. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now.

About High Tech Rising:

Founded in 2001 by a group of women at Texas Instruments, High Tech Rising (formerly High Tech High Heels) is a volunteer-led non-profit dedicated to increasing the number of young women pursuing degrees and careers in STEM. Through strategic grants, partnerships, and volunteer engagement, High Tech Rising works to ensure that every young woman has the confidence to pursue a STEM career, limited only by her talents, efforts, and aspirations.

For more information, visit:hightechrising.org    

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Sharon Ballew, chair. JD Trueblood, President and CEO, Turtle Creek Association

Turtle Creek Association 2026 Azalea Luncheon Celebrating Spring on the Creek Features Fashions by Betty Reiter

Now in its fourth year, the Azalea Luncheon benefiting the Turtle Creek Association (TCA) has become one of Dallas’ most anticipated spring social events. Pat Kozak is Honorary Chair, Sharon Ballew is Luncheon Chair and JD Trueblood is CEO, Turtle Creek Association.

After selling out two years in a row, TCA is thrilled to elevate the experience in a stunning new venue. This year’s celebration will be held at the historic Warwick Melrose Hotel, inside the beautifully appointed Turtle Creek Room, the perfect setting for an unforgettable spring gathering.

The morning begins with champagne, photos, an opportunity to browse the Betty Reiter pop-up boutique, and a special treat: a live fashion illustration experience. A professional fashion sketch artist will be onsite to create designer-style illustrations inspired by guests’ outfits. This exclusive opportunity is available on a first-come, first-served basis during a limited two-hour window, so an early arrival is encouraged for the best chance to participate.

Guests will enjoy an elegant spring fashion presentation by Betty Reiter, followed by lunch. The morning also includes exclusive giveaways and plenty of picture-perfect moments before the program begins.

Most importantly, the Azalea Luncheon supports the Turtle Creek Association’s mission to Protect, Preserve, and Enhance the Turtle Creek corridor. Through events like this, TCA is able to continue vital work that keeps our parks, trails, bridges, and green spaces beautiful, safe, and thriving for generations to come.

Tickets are limited, and this event has sold out every year, so reserve your seat soon! Tickets can be purchased online at www.Turtlecreekassociation.org 

About Turtle Creek Association:

Turtle Creek Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.  TCA’s core mission is to serve as the foremost guardian, advocate, and leader dedicated to preserving, protecting and enhancing the Turtle Creek corridor.

Furthermore, the Turtle Creek Association takes on a range of vital responsibilities.  This includes orchestrating seasonal color transformations along the creek, managing irrigation and watering systems, overseeing litter and trash removal from the creek, and upkeeping 25 beautifully landscaped medians. We play a crucial role in sustaining 2,600 trees that offer a haven for wildlife, and we’re instrumental in providing essential amenities such as drinking fountains, trash receptacles, and benches throughout the parks. Remarkably, all of these efforts are achieved through the generosity of our donors.

For more information and to join our cause, please visit our website at www.turtlecreekassociation.org. Your support fuels our commitment to preserving the urban sanctuary that is Turtle Creek.  

  

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The Hughes Family Tribute Center will present its second annual El Día de los Niños/El Día de los Libros on Sunday, April 19, 2026. This special celebration honors children and families with a joyful day of community activities, including free children’s books, roses, music, refreshments, games, storytelling, face painting, and family art activities.

The event is free and open to the public.

Each child in attendance will receive a complimentary hardcover book, with a choice between Paletero Man by Lucky Diaz and Micah Player or Milo + Niko by D. Guzmán.

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Susser Bank has appointed Jamie Kile as Senior Vice President, Treasury Management Solutions Officer, a strategic addition to its Dallas team located at the new Old Parkland East Campus. In her role, Kile will work closely with commercial clients, helping businesses optimize cash flow, manage payments, enhance liquidity, and mitigate financial risks.

Susser Bank has appointed Jamie Kile as Senior Vice President, Treasury Management Solutions Officer, a strategic addition to its Dallas team located at the new Old Parkland East Campus. In her role, Kile will work closely with commercial clients, helping businesses optimize cash flow, manage payments, enhance liquidity, and mitigate financial risks.

With more than 25 years of experience in banking and treasury management, Kile brings a wealth of expertise to Dallas-area companies. 

“Jamie brings a rare combination of deep treasury management expertise and a proven ability to build strong, trusted relationships with commercial clients,” said Carl Cravens, President and Chief Banking Officer of Susser Bank. “Her appointment strengthens our Dallas team’s capacity to provide strategic solutions that help businesses optimize operations, manage risk effectively, and pursue growth with confidence. She is a resource our clients can rely on for guidance on complex financial challenges."

Kile’s role is designed to make Susser Bank a go-to partner for Dallas businesses navigating the complexities of treasury management. She will work closely with clients to tailor solutions to their specific needs, serving as a trusted advisor and strategic partner in the region.

Beyond her professional work, Kile is an advocate for financial literacy and community engagement. She partners with Youth with Faces, a Dallas-based nonprofit supporting at-risk youth across Dallas and Collin counties, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to empowering individuals and strengthening local communities.

Susser Bank is a Texas-based company, founded in 1959, offering a full suite of personal and commercial banking solutions with offices across Texas – Dallas, Arlington, Austin, Bedford, Corpus Christi, Fort Worth, Garland, Houston, Plano, Round Rock and San Antonio. The company is a diversified bank with robust capital, liquidity, and leading-edge technology led by the Susser family and a legacy of six generations of Texas entrepreneurs. Susser Bank is dedicated to building long-term client relationships and providing outstanding financial solutions that make Texas stronger. 

More information is available at susserbank.com.

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With the bold theme “Cancer Does NOT Define ME!”, Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) will host its 45thAnniversary Gala on Saturday, April 25, at the Ritz-Carlton, Dallas in support of children battling cancer and the families who stand beside them.

For 45 years, WOKC has worked to bring comfort, hope, and meaningful support to children facing pediatric cancer, affectionately called WOKC Warriors. The organization’s Buddy Bag and Warrior Family programs and its relentless efforts to fund pediatric cancer research are designed to help families and to remind every child a diagnosis does not define who they are.

“Everything we do is for these courageous and heroic kids,” exclaimed Cindy Brinker Simmons, founder of Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer. “From the initial diagnosis, we meet children and their families at their point of need. Working with children’s hospitals, we provide Buddy Bags filled with essentials designed to bring comfort, hope and a modicum of normalcy to the child and their parents – every Buddy Bag contains an iPad to allow the child to communicate with family, friends, and their school while hospitalized and homebound. Perhaps one of WOKC’s Warriors will someday unlock the mystery of childhood cancer. These mighty kids do not let cancer define them!” 

Jersey Mike’s founder Peter Cancro and his wife, Tatiana, are serving as Honorary Chairs for the milestone evening. Their generous underwriting of the gala allows all proceeds raised that evening to directly support WOKC’s mission and to fund novel, innovative pediatric cancer research.

Cancro’s life changed at age 17, when he gave up a potential college football career to purchase a small sub shop, Mike’s Subs, in his hometown of Point Pleasant, New Jersey. That shop became Jersey Mike’s, now one of the top fastest-growing food franchises and fast-casual restaurant chains in America. Under his leadership, Jersey Mike’s launched its popular Month of Giving in 2011, a philanthropic initiative that has generated $143 million for more than 200 charities nationwide through 2025, including $5 million for WOKC during those years. Although Cancro sold Jersey Mike’s in 2025, he remains a shareholder and now serves as Chairman of the Board.

Award-winning ESPN and ABC Sports broadcaster Holly Rowe will serve as master of ceremonies. A five-time Emmy Award winner and recipient of the 2023 Curt Gowdy Award from the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, Rowe has spent more than 30 years covering college sports, the WNBA, and other major events for ESPN and ABC Sports. After her own battle with Stage IV metastatic melanoma, she has become a passionate advocate for cancer research and prevention.

Cindy Brinker Simmons and Karee Sampson are serving as Gala Co-Chairs, helping bring the community together in support of WOKC’s mighty Warriors and the organization’s work to fund research and care for families facing pediatric cancer.

Founded in 1980, Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer offers comfort and hope to kids with cancer through support programs serving the entire family and funds innovative research leading to new discoveries and treatments in the fight against pediatric cancer. For more information on WOKC, follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitteror visit WOKC.org.

To learn more about WOKC’s 45th Anniversary Gala, visit wokc.org/gala.

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The youngest Chargers took center stage as Shelton School celebrated a major milestone — its 50th birthday — on Founders Day, Thursday, April 2.

 The youngest Chargers took center stage as Shelton School celebrated a major milestone — its 50th birthday — on Founders Day, Thursday, April 2.

At 10:30 a.m. in the Moody Fine Arts Center, Early Childhood through fourth-grade students, teachers and administrators were joined by staff from across the school for a joyful celebration. The event put students at the heart of the moment, bringing Shelton’s history to life in a way that was meaningful, memorable and fun.

Second-grader Robert Nixon helped set the tone for the celebration by creating the Shelton birthday artwork featured on the T-shirt designed for the day — a student-created symbol of Charger pride worn across the Lower School division. 

During the celebration, Lower School students and teachers came together to count to 50 and sing “Happy Birthday” to Shelton, marking five decades of learning, growth and community. The excitement continued throughout the day with cupcakes at lunch — thanks to Chef Christian Moreno and the SAGE dining team.

Shelton Executive Director Suzanne Stell attended, and Head of Lower School Christine Davis reminded students of their role in Shelton’s future. “We have creative minds, courageous hearts and a strong Shelton spirit built on 50 years of legacy,” Mrs. Davis said. “But it’s not over yet — it’s your vision that will shape the next 50 years at Shelton and beyond.”

Shelton second-grader Robert Nixon. 

Thank you to Mrs. Davis, Assistant Heads of Lower School Lena Hilbert and Beth Womble and all of the Lower School teachers and staff who organized such a meaningful 50th Founders Day celebration.

Shelton 50th Fun Facts:

  • Shelton was founded on April 2, 1976, when The June Shelton School and Evaluation Center was officially chartered under the Texas Nonprofit Corporation Act.
  • Founder Dr. June Shelton established the school to provide evaluation, education and training for individuals with learning differences — and to help educators better understand language disorders and school-related challenges.
  • Larry Beeman personally flew the incorporation papers to Austin and hand-delivered them to ensure the school was chartered without delay. 
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If you’re looking for a meaningful way to spend a spring day outdoors, Folds of Honor — North Texas has one of those events that truly delivers, both on experience and impact.

On Monday, April 13, Folds of Honor North Texas will host the 2026 Wingman Open at Ridglea Country Club. Organized by the Fort Worth Board of Directors, the event brings together community members, supporters, and local leaders for a full day of golf, connection, and purpose.

The Wingman Open is designed to be more than a traditional golf tournament. While participants will enjoy 18 holes on one of Fort Worth’s well-known courses, the day also includes dinner, live music, an auction, and guest speakers. It is a chance to gather, reflect, and contribute to a mission that has a direct impact in North Texas.

Proceeds from the event support educational scholarships for the spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service members and first responders. For many families, these scholarships provide critical access to educational opportunities and help ease the long-term impact of service and sacrifice.

The day begins with registration at 7:30 a.m., followed by a 10:00 a.m. start. Programming continues through the afternoon and into the evening, concluding around 6:00 p.m. with dinner and entertainment.

Whether you are an avid golfer or simply interested in supporting the cause, the Wingman Open offers several ways to get involved. Attendees can register as players, form teams, or explore sponsorship opportunities to further support the mission.

To learn more or register, visit https://northtexas.foldsofhonor.org/event/2026-wingman-open/ or email mscott@foldsofhonor.org.

Events like the Wingman Open highlight the strength of the North Texas community and its ongoing commitment to honoring and supporting those who have served. 

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THE STUDIO designers Erica McLain, Living Luxury Lab by MxD Interiors Ashleigh Graber, Ashleigh Graber Design Arina Gurfinkel, Roco and Xander by Amara Home Designs Bryan Yates, Yates Desygn Kellie Sirna, Studio 11 Design Kaky Kuby, Studio Thomas James Sarah Graham, Graham + Co. Interiors (photo: Aaron Dougherty Photography)
Dwell with Dignity announces the return of The STUDIO (formerly Thrift Studio), presented by Amazon, the organization’s flagship annual fundraiser and a longstanding spring event within Dallas’ design and philanthropic communities. The VIP Party is April 9 (ticketed) and the shopping extravaganza, which is free and open to the public, is April 10 to May 9.  
 
Launched in September 2011, The STUDIO is now in its 15th year, marking a milestone moment in the event’s evolution and continued impact across North Texas.
 
Since its inception, the event has grown into a highly anticipated event, bringing together interior designers, showrooms, retailers, corporate partners and supporters to generate critical funding for Dwell with Dignity’s home transformation work across Dallas. The STUDIO provides approximately one-third of the organization’s annual operating revenue.
 
Formerly known as Thrift Studio, the updated name reflects the continued evolution and maturity of the event. As designer participation and community engagement have expanded over the years, The STUDIO aligns with the caliber of the experience and the design-forward presentation the event has become known for.
 
The STUDIO is a high-end pop-up shop featuring donated and purchased furniture, housewares, accessories, artwork and designer finds sold at significant discounts, with 100 percent of proceeds benefiting Dwell with Dignity’s mission. The space is transformed into fully styled one-of-a-kind room vignettes by leading local designers, creating an immersive shopping environment that blends design, retail and philanthropy.
 
Each year, The STUDIO features a new roster of designers. The 2026 lineup includes nationally recognized and Dallas-based firms whose work spans residential, hospitality and showhouse projects: 
 
The 2026 event is chaired by Jean Liu, Jean Liu Design, with Art Chair Kendall Bardin.
 
“The STUDIO is our flagship fundraiser and a critical driver of our mission to transform lives through design,” said Teresa Charnock, executive director of Dwell with Dignity. “Dwell with Dignity provides families with renovated fully furnished home interiors that give stability, support and comfort to empower them to lead their best lives in a beautiful environment. When someone shops at The STUDIO, they are directly supporting that work.”
 
Amazon returns as Presenting Sponsor of The STUDIO. Since Amazon became presenting sponsor, the partnership has helped generate more than $1.5 million in merchandise sales, providing life-changing home transformations for 72 families and redesigning 21 community spaces into inspiring, functional environments that serve thousands.
 
"At Amazon, we invest in organizations that create lasting solutions for families in our community," said Vickie Yakunin, Amazon’s head of community engagement in Texas. "Through our continued partnership with Dwell with Dignity and The STUDIO, we're supporting their work to create thoughtfully designed spaces that foster stability and long-term opportunity for families across Dallas."
 
EVENT DETAILS
VIP Premiere Party
Thursday, April 9, 2026
6 – 9 p.m.
  • VIP early access: 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
  • General admission: 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Ticketed event | Limited capacity
    • General Admission: $200
    • VIP: $300
    • Host Committee: $350
  • Purchase tickets here
 
The Premiere Party serves as the exclusive kickoff to the month-long pop-up, drawing industry leaders from Dallas’ design, business and philanthropic communities.
 
Open to the Public Pop-Up
April 10 – May 9, 2026
Tuesday – Saturday
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Free admission
 
Location:
1833 E. Levee St.
Dallas, TX 75207
Following the Premiere Party, The STUDIO opens to the public for four weeks, offering access to designer-created installations and one-of-a-kind pieces available for purchase at significant discounts.
 
ABOUT THE STUDIO
The STUDIO (formerly Thrift Studio) is Dwell with Dignity’s flagship fundraising event. Now in its 15th year, the month-long pop-up features designer-created vignettes showcasing donated home furnishings, décor and artwork available for purchase at significant discounts. The STUDIO supports Dwell with Dignity’s mission to create fully furnished homes and community spaces for families across Dallas.
 
ABOUT DWELL WITH DIGNITY
Founded in 2009, Dwell with Dignity is a Dallas-based nonprofit with a mission to transform lives through design. By providing and installing interiors for family homes and community spaces for individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness, the transformations inspire people to lead their best lives and thrive in a safe, functional and beautiful environment. Dwell with Dignity has completed more than 285 home design projects and 55 community spaces, and in 2025 the organization served more than 3,000 people through its home and community projects. The nonprofit is backed by the support of over 100 designers, 1,100 dedicated volunteers and 150 sponsors and donors. 
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The Summer Blizzard Collection includes the NEW Strawberry Angel Food Cake Blizzard Treat, the S’mores Blizzard Treat, and the Cotton Candy Blizzard Treat.

There’s only one thing better than summertime, and that’s enjoying your favorite Blizzard® Treat in the sunshine. DQ® restaurants in Texas are kicking off the season with the Summer Blizzard Collection which includes the NEW Strawberry Angel Food Cake Blizzard Treat, the S’mores Blizzard Treat, and the Cotton Candy Blizzard Treat.

The NEW Strawberry Angel Food Cake Blizzard Treat, the official April Blizzard of the Month, blends light and fluffy angel food cake pieces, strawberry and world-famous DQ soft serve finished with whipped topping.This refreshing, sweetness explosion is the answer to those Texas summer days ahead.

Returning to the Blizzard Treat lineup this summer is the classic S’mores Blizzard Treat. Featuring marshmallow-filled DQ chocolate bars and graham cracker swirled together with world-famous DQ vanilla soft serve, this fan-favorite couldn’t stay off the menu for too long.

The Cotton Candy Blizzard Treat is back as well with its signature purple and pink swirl. This summertime favorite has cotton candy sprinkles mixed into world-famous DQ soft serve, making each red spoonful sweeter than the last. 

“Texans look forward to the summertime Blizzard Treat lineup every year,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “As the temperatures warm up, DQ Fans get excited to see what new and returning flavors will appear on our menus for the summer.”  

For those craving something spicy alongside their Blizzard Treat, fans can also try the NEW Spicy Dude Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich available until April 26, or while supplies last. The Spicy Dude Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich features a chicken fried steak cooked to crispy perfection with a bold kick of heat, topped with pepper jack cheese, jalapeños and creamy jalapeño ranch. 

For more than 78 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been friendly, gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats and create fond memories. To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

 About Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council 

There are few brands as iconic as the DQ brand. Innovative DQ treats and eats, along with the unique DQ restaurant concepts, have positioned DQ restaurants in Texas as a leader in the quick service restaurant industry. The Texas Dairy Queen Operators' Council is a nonprofit organization made up of DQ franchisees operating in Texas. The Council develops the advertising and marketing program for DQ franchisees in Texas and controls the Texas Country Foods menu along with managing supply/distribution for the DQ restaurants in Texas. The DQ restaurants in Texas are franchised by American Dairy Queen Corporation and the DQ franchise system includes approximately 7,800 franchised locations in more than 20 other countries.