Staff & Reader Submitted
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

Easter is a time to gather, celebrate, and enjoy a great meal together, and for those looking to skip the hosting duties this year, Open Palette at the Sheraton Dallas is offering a brunch experience designed to make the day feel both special and easy.

On Sunday, April 5, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can enjoy a wide-ranging buffet featuring everything from carved smoked prime rib and made-to-order omelets to fresh seafood, seasonal salads, and classic breakfast favorites. A selection of house-baked pastries and desserts rounds out the menu, along with options tailored for younger guests.

The experience is designed with families in mind, with a festive Easter egg hunt for children and live music throughout the afternoon. For adults, $4 build-your-own mimosas add a customizable touch to the celebration.

Located in the heart of downtown at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel, Open Palette offers a convenient setting for groups gathering from across the city, whether for a relaxed holiday meal or a larger family get-together.

Easter Brunch is priced at $70 per adult, $30 for children under 12, and complimentary for children under 4. Reservations are available via OpenTable.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

EarthX recently announced speakers and programming for Earthx2026, a three-day Congress of Conferences taking place in Dallas at the Hilton Anatole on April 20–22, 2026. Since 2011, the event has gathered leading voices from across the environmental spectrum to examine how innovation, markets, and culture can define the next chapter of environmental leadership.

Now in its 15th year, this event brings together policymakers, investors, scientists, business leaders, artists, technologists, and civic leaders to move beyond polarization and toward pragmatic, scalable action that supports both human prosperity and planetary health. This nonpartisan convening will offer an honest environment to identify common ground solutions that align incentives – not ideology – and set a course towards a healthy and flourishing future for the planet.

“Our mission at EarthX is to create a space where leaders from business, policy, conservation, and advocacy can cut through division and work toward pragmatic outcomes,” said EarthX CEO Peter Simek. “This event is about moving beyond rhetoric and building solutions that people across cultures, industries, and political lines can actually support.”

Congress of Conferences Speakers

Earthx2026 will feature an expanding roster of globally recognized leaders with new additions, including:

  • Bob Ballard, Oceanographer and Founder, Ocean Exploration Trust
  • Xiye Bastida, Executive Director of Re-Earth Initiative
  • Felipe Calderón, Former President of Mexico
  • Kristy Drutman, Founder Browngirl Green and co-founder of Green Jobs Board
  • Dr. Sylvia Earle, Founder, Mission Blue
  • Isolde Fair, Grammy Award-winning Singer-Songwriter and Performing Artist
  • Lord Fatafehi Fakafānua, Prime Minister, Kingdom of Tonga
  • Peter Fiekowsky, Founder, Foundation for Climate Restoration
  • Torrei Hart, Comedian, Actress, and Social Impact Entrepreneur
  • Danielle Holly, Executive Lead, North America, Ellen MacArthur Foundation
  • Dr. Serena McCalla, Ph.D., Founder, iResearch Institute; nationally recognized science education pioneer
  • Juan Carlos Monterrey, Special Representative for Climate Change of Panamá
  • Steven Nickel, Director, Consumer Hardware Operations, Google
  • Adam Peer, Senior Director, Plastics Sustainability, American Chemistry Council
  • Charlie Schwarze, Senior Director, Keurig Dr. Pepper & Board Chair, Circular Action Alliance
  • Jeff Seabright, Former Chief Sustainability Officer, Unilever North America
  • Bershan Shaw, Entrepreneur, Global Speaker, and Leadership Coach
  • Stormy Simon, Former CEO, Overstock.com
  • Dr. John Warner, CEO, The Technology Greenhouse and the founder of “green chemistry”
  • Andrew Winston, Author of Net Positive; Thinkers50 “#1 Management Thinker in the World"

These speakers will join an exceptional roster of leaders, innovators, and changemakers from across sectors including Ed Begley Jr. (Actor and Environmentalist), Rachelle Carson Begley (Actor and Environmentalist), Rear Admiral Tim Gallaudet (Oceanographer), Mariel Hemingway (Actor, Author, and Environmentalist), Commander G. Mark Miller (Co-Founder, GMSO), Margaret Trilli (CEO and Chief Investment Officer, ImpactAssets), Richard Wiese (President, The Explorers Club) with more to be announced.

Framing the Global Conversation on the Main Stage

New for 2026, the EarthX Main Stage serves as the narrative anchor of the event, platforming the biggest ideas facing the planet and the leaders driving real-world solutions. Programming will center on five core questions shaping the future of environmental leadership:

  • America at 250: Can Nature Still Be Our Common Ground? At a moment of deep polarization, can land, water, and wildlife once again serve as a unifying national project—or has environmentalism become too politicized to repair?
  • Innovation, Capital, and Corporate Leadership: Who Actually Drives Environmental Change Now? If government sets the rules but markets move the world, how are companies, investors, and entrepreneurs shaping the future of energy, conservation, and resilience—and where are they falling short?
  • Nature Under Pressure: How Do We Manage Land and Oceans in a Resource-Hungry World? What frameworks allow conservation, restoration, and responsible extraction to coexist—without pretending tradeoffs don’t exist?
  • Health, Culture, and Connection: Why Environmentalism Lost People—and How to Win Them Back discusseshas environmentalism failed by becoming abstract and moralizing—and can a renewed focus on human health, beauty, place, and lived experience rebuild broad public support?
  • Designing for Nature and Life: What Comes After Sustainability? If “sustainability” is no longer ambitious—or honest—enough, what does a life-centered model of growth look like in practice across cities, infrastructure, food systems, and industry?

A Congress of Conferences with One Connected Ecosystem

Earthx2026 features more than 20 summits, stages, and forums, each designed to address a critical dimension of environmental leadership. Together, these conferences form a single ecosystem designed to foster collaboration across sectors, geographies, and ideologies. These include: 

  • The Family Office Summit is a peer-to-peer convening for high-net-worth individuals, family foundations, and family office principals with more than $100 million in assets or net worth from the U.S., Latin America, and around the world. Designed as a confidential forum for principals and decision-makers, the summit focuses on long-term capital stewardship, intergenerational leadership, impact investing, and navigating geopolitical, environmental, and market volatility through pragmatic, values-aligned strategies.
  • The 2026 E-Capital Summit convenes, inspires, and catalyzes action from thousands of the country’s and world’s leading investors, family offices/foundations, innovators, startups, established companies, industry leaders, policymakers, and innovation ecosystem leaders including incubators/accelerators/federal labs with the goal of driving substantial, positive impact on investments, businesses, people, and our planet.
  • EarthxEnergy: Texas & the Next Nuclear Era Convened by the EarthX Institute, this new research-driven initiative brings together leading scientists, policymakers, investors, and technologists to examine how Texas’s track record in energy leadership can inform the next phase of nuclear deployment. Through focused discussions, the convening will translate Texas’s experience into a practical policy framework to accelerate advanced nuclear development, modernize the grid, streamline permitting, and position nuclear energy as a cornerstone of America’s clean-power future amid rising AI demand and grid stress.
  • Circle America Summit: Advancing a Circular Economy and Culture convenes leaders across policy, business, and culture to examine how a circular economy can better reflect nature, protect human health, and reduce waste at scale. Through practical case studies and solution-driven conversations, the program explores innovations in reuse, recycling, and materials management, alongside the policies and market forces shaping their impact. The summit will also catalyze new partnerships and launch Circle America, a national effort to educate, engage, and mobilize the public around building a truly circular culture.
  • The Nature Summit is an invitation-only, exclusive convening of government leaders, family offices, philanthropists, and corporate visionaries shaping the future of the blue and green economy. Designed to unlock sustainable investment opportunities, the summit aligns public, private, and philanthropic capital around nature-based solutions that enhance resilience, restore ecosystems, and drive long-term prosperity through high-impact collaboration.
  • Blue Finance Convening and Workshop is where the Marine Technology Society convenes marine scientists, technologists, policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to explore how innovation and technology are advancing ocean health, resilience, and sustainable economic activity. The summit highlights cutting-edge marine technology, ocean observation, blue economy solutions, and cross-sector partnerships critical to protecting and restoring the world’s oceans.
  • Sport as a Force for Sustainability, presented by the North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee, examines how the world’s most influential cultural platform—sport—can drive environmental leadership at scale. Featuring leaders from sports organizations, teams, and host cities, the summit explores sustainability in mega-events, infrastructure, fan engagement, and climate leadership, demonstrating how competition and culture can accelerate and craft a sustainable future for the world stage.
  • The Monarch Corridor: Trade, Infrastructure, and Environmental Resilience in North America convenes business leaders, policymakers, and investors to examine the future of cross-border trade, supply chains, and sustainable growth between Mexico and Texas. The summit, hosted in partnership with Asociacion de Empresarios Mexicanos (AEM), focuses on nearshoring, energy, infrastructure, workforce development, and bilateral partnerships critical to economic resilience and environmental progress in North America.
  • Island Resilience Forum brings together government leaders, development institutions, investors, and climate practitioners from island and coastal nations to address the urgent challenges of climate vulnerability. The forum focuses on adaptation finance, resilience planning, and scalable solutions that protect communities, ecosystems, and economies on the front lines of climate change.
  • Texas Symposium on Climate and Energy Transition convenes legal, corporate, and financial leaders to examine the legal and regulatory frameworks shaping climate and energy transition projects. Through expert-led sessions, the program, organized by the Environmental & Natural Resources Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, explores dispute resolution, private capital deployment, community engagement, and the evolving role of legal professionals in enabling low-carbon technology, infrastructure, and project success.
  • Climate Restoration Summit challenges conventional climate thinking by focusing not only on reducing emissions, but on restoring a safe and stable climate. Centered on the science, policy, and scalability of atmospheric carbon removal, the summit, organized by the Foundation for Climate Restoration, explores how nature-based and engineered solutions can reduce legacy CO₂ and create a future where both humanity and ecosystems can thrive.
  • Citizens in the Arena: Leadership for Land and Energy, presented by The Roosevelt Initiative. Inspired by Theodore Roosevelt's call to those "in the arena", this inaugural convening examines the intersection of conservation, markets, and policy through the lens of civic responsibility and engagement. The summit challenges leaders to move beyond rhetoric and engage directly in the work of environmental stewardship, democratic leadership, and pragmatic problem-solving at a pivotal geopolitical moment.
  • North Texas Day convenes leading regional environmental organizations, NGOs, government agencies, policymakers, and advocates to take stock of the year’s work on the ground. Through workshops, panels, and collaborative sessions, the conference sets priorities and strengthens partnerships to advance the North Texas environmental agenda for the year ahead.
  • 9th Annual North Texas Climate Symposium serves as a platform for sharing the latest research, innovations, and strategies in climate action and sustainability focusing on how these critical issues affect the Dallas community, local businesses, and overall quality of life of city residents. Hosted by the City of Dallas Office of Environmental Quality & Sustainability this year’s symposium theme is “Climate Resilience,” focusing on the capacity of social, economic, and environmental systems to support mitigation and adaptation efforts.
  • The Solutions Stage is a fast-paced, public-facing platform showcasing tangible, real-world solutions emerging across the EarthX ecosystem. Featuring rapid-fire talks from innovators, businesses, governments, NGOs, and academics, the stage highlights actionable ideas, scalable models, and on-the-ground progress driving measurable environmental impact.

What to Expect?

Throughout the three days, EarthX will also offer curated side meetings, small group conversations, hands-on workshops, and designated meetup spaces designed to spark meaningful exchange around shared interests and real-world challenges. In-app tools allow participants to create or join meetups, whether planned in advance or formed organically on site.

EarthX is intentionally paced to create shared moments and rituals, from hosted lunches and evening networking hours to banquets, keynote moments, and awards celebrations that bring the full community together. These moments are not side events, they are central to how EarthX builds connection, trust, and momentum.

REGISTER:

Reserve your ticket at https://earthx.org/earthx2026/tickets/, with special Early Bird rates available for a limited time.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Grant Halliburton Foundation Amy Roseman, Robert Roseman, Michael Roseman

Grant Halliburton Foundation hosted its 17th annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon on Friday, March 13 at the Omni Dallas Hotel, kicking off the organization’s 20th anniversary year. More than 500 guests gathered in support of the Foundation’s mission, helping to raise $335,000 for youth mental health and suicide prevention programs across North Texas.

The event featured keynote speaker Steve Burns, best known as the original host of Nickelodeon’s “Blue’s Clues,” along with remarks from Foundation leaders and Co-chairs Meredith and David Camp and Amy and Michael Roseman.

Ahead of the program, DJ Lucy Wrubel set an upbeat tone at the Welcome Reception, where attendees enjoyed champagne and sparkling water from a 20th anniversary-themed champagne wall. Over coffee from Another Sunrise Coffee Company, guests connected and recorded messages of hope at the Hope Hotline telephone booth, an installation marking the Foundation’s milestone year.

Another activation featured an oversized “Blue’s Clues”-inspired purple mailbox inviting attendees to take an encouraging letter of hope. Guests also stopped at a 20th anniversary photo wall and browsed raffle packages that included luxury travel, high-end shopping experiences, sporting events and more.

The luncheon opened with the Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy Singers performing “Seasons of Love” from the Broadway musical “Rent.”

Steve Noviello, FOX 4 News host, welcomed guests, followed by an invocation from Cantor Vicky Glikin, senior cantor at Temple Emanu-El. Guests then enjoyed lunch while connecting with fellow supporters.

TheRosemans thanked sponsors, donors, committee members and volunteers, along with Founding Luncheon Chair Barb Farmer.

TheCamps then presented the 2026 Vanita Halliburton Beacon Award to Elizabeth Carlock Phillips, founder of No More Victims and executive director of the Phillips Foundation.

Phillips was recognized for her advocacy for survivors of sexual abuse and for leading the passage of Trey’s Law in Texas and Missouri, which prohibits the misuse of nondisclosure agreements against survivors, in memory of her late brother, Trey Carlock, who died by suicide.

“We refuse to let the end of their story be the whole story,” Carlock Phillips said. “We invite joy and sorrow to coexist. Keep fighting for the unseen and the hurting.”

Following a mission video, Foundation President Kevin Hall reflected on the organization’s 20 years of impact.

“As the video showed, the story of Grant Halliburton Foundation is the story of a community that has shown up over the past 20 years to make sure young people know they are not alone,” Hall said. “The Foundation has reached more than 375,000 students, educators, parents and professionals with life-saving mental health and suicide prevention training because of you.”

Amy McCloskey, co-founder of the Foundation and Grant Halliburton’s sister, spoke about the organization’s ongoing work.

“Because of this community, there are young people who are alive and well today who might not have been otherwise,” McCloskey said. “Continue this legacy with us by bringing help, hope and peace of mind to young people and their families.”

David shared how he and his wife became involved after five friends lost children within five years and encouraged attendees to connect with young people in their lives.

“I realized it only takes five minutes to start a conversation that could change the trajectory of a struggling youth’s future,” he said.

David and Michael led the paddle raise, joined on stage by Amy Roseman and Meredith.

Burns delivered a personal message about his experience with depression during his talk, “The Cost of Showing Up Happy: Burnout and the Wisdom of Asking for Help.”

He now shares his story as a speaker, podcast host, musician and actor, continuing conversations about mental health with audiences of all ages.

“What made the show work was the idea that I needed [help from] the home viewer,” Burns said. “‘Will you help me?’ I would ask [on the show]. It’s OK to ask for help. Make asking for help seem ordinary.”

Burns said that while he appeared joyful to millions of “Blue’s Clues” viewers, he was living with undiagnosed depression.

Burns’ experience reflects the challenges many young people face, a focus of the Foundation’s work as it marks its 20th anniversary year and continues expanding youth mental health education and resources across North Texas.

That focus was echoed earlier in the program.

“Because the future we are working toward is one where young people feel safe asking for help, where parents know what to look for and where to turn, and where suicide prevention is proactive, not reactive,” Hall said.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation: Celebrating 20 years of hope and impact, Grant Halliburton Foundation was founded in 2006 in memory of Grant Halliburton, a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder before his suicide death at age 19. Over the past two decades, the Foundation has provided mental health education, resources, and support to more than 375,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals. The Foundation also offers help through HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community resources provide North Texans with easy access to trusted information and support for mental health and substance use. Learn more at GrantHalliburton.org.

Photos: Simon Luna Studios 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Grant Halliburton Foundation Amy Roseman, Robert Roseman, Michael Roseman

Grant Halliburton Foundation hosted its 17th annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon on Friday, March 13 at the Omni Dallas Hotel, kicking off the organization’s 20th anniversary year. More than 500 guests gathered in support of the Foundation’s mission, helping to raise $335,000 for youth mental health and suicide prevention programs across North Texas.

The event featured keynote speaker Steve Burns, best known as the original host of Nickelodeon’s “Blue’s Clues,” along with remarks from Foundation leaders and Co-chairs Meredith and David Camp and Amy and Michael Roseman.

Ahead of the program, DJ Lucy Wrubel set an upbeat tone at the Welcome Reception, where attendees enjoyed champagne and sparkling water from a 20th anniversary-themed champagne wall. Over coffee from Another Sunrise Coffee Company, guests connected and recorded messages of hope at the Hope Hotline telephone booth, an installation marking the Foundation’s milestone year.

Another activation featured an oversized “Blue’s Clues”-inspired purple mailbox inviting attendees to take an encouraging letter of hope. Guests also stopped at a 20th anniversary photo wall and browsed raffle packages that included luxury travel, high-end shopping experiences, sporting events and more.

The luncheon opened with the Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy Singers performing “Seasons of Love” from the Broadway musical “Rent.”

Steve Noviello, FOX 4 News host, welcomed guests, followed by an invocation from Cantor Vicky Glikin, senior cantor at Temple Emanu-El. Guests then enjoyed lunch while connecting with fellow supporters.

TheRosemans thanked sponsors, donors, committee members and volunteers, along with Founding Luncheon Chair Barb Farmer.

TheCamps then presented the 2026 Vanita Halliburton Beacon Award to Elizabeth Carlock Phillips, founder of No More Victims and executive director of the Phillips Foundation.

Phillips was recognized for her advocacy for survivors of sexual abuse and for leading the passage of Trey’s Law in Texas and Missouri, which prohibits the misuse of nondisclosure agreements against survivors, in memory of her late brother, Trey Carlock, who died by suicide.

“We refuse to let the end of their story be the whole story,” Carlock Phillips said. “We invite joy and sorrow to coexist. Keep fighting for the unseen and the hurting.”

Following a mission video, Foundation President Kevin Hall reflected on the organization’s 20 years of impact.

“As the video showed, the story of Grant Halliburton Foundation is the story of a community that has shown up over the past 20 years to make sure young people know they are not alone,” Hall said. “The Foundation has reached more than 375,000 students, educators, parents and professionals with life-saving mental health and suicide prevention training because of you.”

Amy McCloskey, co-founder of the Foundation and Grant Halliburton’s sister, spoke about the organization’s ongoing work.

“Because of this community, there are young people who are alive and well today who might not have been otherwise,” McCloskey said. “Continue this legacy with us by bringing help, hope and peace of mind to young people and their families.”

David shared how he and his wife became involved after five friends lost children within five years and encouraged attendees to connect with young people in their lives.

“I realized it only takes five minutes to start a conversation that could change the trajectory of a struggling youth’s future,” he said.

David and Michael led the paddle raise, joined on stage by Amy Roseman and Meredith.

Burns delivered a personal message about his experience with depression during his talk, “The Cost of Showing Up Happy: Burnout and the Wisdom of Asking for Help.”

He now shares his story as a speaker, podcast host, musician and actor, continuing conversations about mental health with audiences of all ages.

“What made the show work was the idea that I needed [help from] the home viewer,” Burns said. “‘Will you help me?’ I would ask [on the show]. It’s OK to ask for help. Make asking for help seem ordinary.”

Burns said that while he appeared joyful to millions of “Blue’s Clues” viewers, he was living with undiagnosed depression.

Burns’ experience reflects the challenges many young people face, a focus of the Foundation’s work as it marks its 20th anniversary year and continues expanding youth mental health education and resources across North Texas.

That focus was echoed earlier in the program.

“Because the future we are working toward is one where young people feel safe asking for help, where parents know what to look for and where to turn, and where suicide prevention is proactive, not reactive,” Hall said.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation: Celebrating 20 years of hope and impact, Grant Halliburton Foundation was founded in 2006 in memory of Grant Halliburton, a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder before his suicide death at age 19. Over the past two decades, the Foundation has provided mental health education, resources, and support to more than 375,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals. The Foundation also offers help through HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community resources provide North Texans with easy access to trusted information and support for mental health and substance use. Learn more at GrantHalliburton.org.

Photos: Simon Luna Studios 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Grant Halliburton Foundation Amy Roseman, Robert Roseman, Michael Roseman

Grant Halliburton Foundation hosted its 17th annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon on Friday, March 13 at the Omni Dallas Hotel, kicking off the organization’s 20th anniversary year. More than 500 guests gathered in support of the Foundation’s mission, helping to raise $335,000 for youth mental health and suicide prevention programs across North Texas.

The event featured keynote speaker Steve Burns, best known as the original host of Nickelodeon’s “Blue’s Clues,” along with remarks from Foundation leaders and Co-chairs Meredith and David Camp and Amy and Michael Roseman.

Ahead of the program, DJ Lucy Wrubel set an upbeat tone at the Welcome Reception, where attendees enjoyed champagne and sparkling water from a 20th anniversary-themed champagne wall. Over coffee from Another Sunrise Coffee Company, guests connected and recorded messages of hope at the Hope Hotline telephone booth, an installation marking the Foundation’s milestone year.

Another activation featured an oversized “Blue’s Clues”-inspired purple mailbox inviting attendees to take an encouraging letter of hope. Guests also stopped at a 20th anniversary photo wall and browsed raffle packages that included luxury travel, high-end shopping experiences, sporting events and more.

The luncheon opened with the Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy Singers performing “Seasons of Love” from the Broadway musical “Rent.”

Steve Noviello, FOX 4 News host, welcomed guests, followed by an invocation from Cantor Vicky Glikin, senior cantor at Temple Emanu-El. Guests then enjoyed lunch while connecting with fellow supporters.

TheRosemans thanked sponsors, donors, committee members and volunteers, along with Founding Luncheon Chair Barb Farmer.

TheCamps then presented the 2026 Vanita Halliburton Beacon Award to Elizabeth Carlock Phillips, founder of No More Victims and executive director of the Phillips Foundation.

Phillips was recognized for her advocacy for survivors of sexual abuse and for leading the passage of Trey’s Law in Texas and Missouri, which prohibits the misuse of nondisclosure agreements against survivors, in memory of her late brother, Trey Carlock, who died by suicide.

“We refuse to let the end of their story be the whole story,” Carlock Phillips said. “We invite joy and sorrow to coexist. Keep fighting for the unseen and the hurting.”

Following a mission video, Foundation President Kevin Hall reflected on the organization’s 20 years of impact.

“As the video showed, the story of Grant Halliburton Foundation is the story of a community that has shown up over the past 20 years to make sure young people know they are not alone,” Hall said. “The Foundation has reached more than 375,000 students, educators, parents and professionals with life-saving mental health and suicide prevention training because of you.”

Amy McCloskey, co-founder of the Foundation and Grant Halliburton’s sister, spoke about the organization’s ongoing work.

“Because of this community, there are young people who are alive and well today who might not have been otherwise,” McCloskey said. “Continue this legacy with us by bringing help, hope and peace of mind to young people and their families.”

David shared how he and his wife became involved after five friends lost children within five years and encouraged attendees to connect with young people in their lives.

“I realized it only takes five minutes to start a conversation that could change the trajectory of a struggling youth’s future,” he said.

David and Michael led the paddle raise, joined on stage by Amy Roseman and Meredith.

Burns delivered a personal message about his experience with depression during his talk, “The Cost of Showing Up Happy: Burnout and the Wisdom of Asking for Help.”

He now shares his story as a speaker, podcast host, musician and actor, continuing conversations about mental health with audiences of all ages.

“What made the show work was the idea that I needed [help from] the home viewer,” Burns said. “‘Will you help me?’ I would ask [on the show]. It’s OK to ask for help. Make asking for help seem ordinary.”

Burns said that while he appeared joyful to millions of “Blue’s Clues” viewers, he was living with undiagnosed depression.

Burns’ experience reflects the challenges many young people face, a focus of the Foundation’s work as it marks its 20th anniversary year and continues expanding youth mental health education and resources across North Texas.

That focus was echoed earlier in the program.

“Because the future we are working toward is one where young people feel safe asking for help, where parents know what to look for and where to turn, and where suicide prevention is proactive, not reactive,” Hall said.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation: Celebrating 20 years of hope and impact, Grant Halliburton Foundation was founded in 2006 in memory of Grant Halliburton, a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder before his suicide death at age 19. Over the past two decades, the Foundation has provided mental health education, resources, and support to more than 375,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals. The Foundation also offers help through HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community resources provide North Texans with easy access to trusted information and support for mental health and substance use. Learn more at GrantHalliburton.org.

Photos: Simon Luna Studios 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Claire Busch, Kelly Ongena, Chelsea Hargrave, Claire Catrino

 

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League’s inaugural Winds and Winds Mahjong Tournament proved to be a winning hand, surpassing expectations and raising more than double its projected fundraising goal. The vibrant energy, thoughtful planning, and strong leadership of this year’s team transformed the evening into a remarkable success.

Held March 5 in a private country club setting, the evening combined spirited mahjong competition with lively socializing in support of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s community and engagement programs. Tables for foursomes were dressed in colorful linens throughout the room, creating a festive setting for the enthusiastic players.

Hostesses came ready for play, bringing the 2025 National Mah Jongg League card—known to players as “The Big Card”—along with full mahjong sets and mats for each table.

Guests were greeted upon arrival with chilled sake and a refreshing grapefruit cocktail while enjoying sushi rolls that set a celebratory tone for the evening.

Event co-chairs Chelsea Hargrave, Kelly Ongena, and Claire Busch welcomed the crowd and introduced Dallas Symphony Orchestra League President Claire Catrino, who shared the inspiration behind the event. In addition to friendly competition and an evening of fun, the tournament served as a creative fundraiser that also introduced many new guests to the League’s mission and its support of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.

A buffet of Chinese favorites followed, including egg rolls, fried shrimp, and chicken served in classic Chinese takeout containers with chopsticks—an imaginative thematic touch that delighted guests.

Among those attending were Anne Stodghill, Katy Bock, Tracy Lange, Claudia Conrad, Jennifer Cardwell, Anne Hendrix, Angie Bullard, Melissa Pogue, Lauren Isom, Joanna Clarke, and Ashley Gawley, along with several mothers of the 2026 Dallas Symphony Orchestra League debutantes, including Kathryn Rader and Jen Siguenza.

Raffle tickets added to the evening’s fundraising total, with prizes generously provided by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Eiseman Jewels, Chelsea Hargrave Interiors, and The Charleston Club.

A DJ kept the atmosphere lively throughout the night as tiles clicked, laughter filled the room, and players focused on building winning hands.

Event sponsors included Hawkins-Welwood Homes, Claire Catrino, Bru Juracek, Nancy Labadie, TT Ranch Group, and Compass School of Texas.

 

Photos by Chuck Clark Photography

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

The Collin County Soil & Water Conservation District is sponsoring a spring wildflower planting program now through June 1, or while supplies last.   One-pound bags of Spring Texas native wildflower seed mix are available for $30 per pound and contain over 20 different species, including Back-eyed Susan, coneflowers, Gayfeather, milkweeds, Indian Blanket and Lemon Mint. 

Native flowers require less water and maintenance than conventional landscaping flowers and plants and can better withstand our sometimes extreme Texas climate.  Wildflowers also add beauty to the landscape and provide food for wildlife, including pollinators.  The Collin County SWCD uses funds raised from projects such as this to support local conservation programs and education within the District.

One-pound bags of wildflower seed are available for purchase at the District office, 1404 N. McDonald Street, Suite 100, in McKinney, now thru June 1, or while supplies last.  Please call before you come to make sure the seed is in stock at 972-542-0081 ext. 3.  Spring months are the optimal times to plant these wildflowers, and seeding instructions are available with purchases.  Get yours now, while supplies last

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

There is so much to explore in Texas. With cultural landmarks, natural landscapes, and great weather, there is always something new to experience. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a scenic drive, there are plenty of exciting destinations just a short distance from Frisco and Prosper. When you live at The Links on PGA Parkway, you are perfectly positioned to experience it all.

Day Trips and Local Adventures

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve
Just a short drive from Frisco, this 200-acre preserve offers a peaceful escape into nature. With miles of hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, and picnic areas, it is a great place to spend time outdoors. In the spring, blooming wildflowers make it especially beautiful and perfect for a relaxing day outside.

Historic Downtown McKinney
Explore one of Texas’ oldest and most charming downtown areas. Historic Downtown McKinney is filled with boutique shops, cozy coffee houses, and locally loved restaurants. Walking through the streets feels like stepping back in time, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.

Lake Lewisville
For those who enjoy being on the water, Lake Lewisville is a go-to destination. Spend the day fishing, kayaking, boating, or simply enjoying a lakeside picnic. Located just about 30 minutes from Frisco, it is an easy and refreshing escape from the city.

Weekend Getaways Worth the Drive

Waco – Magnolia Market & Cameron Park
Waco offers a great mix of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. Start your visit at Magnolia Market for home decor inspiration and a lively atmosphere, then head to Cameron Park to explore scenic trails and take in views of the Brazos River. It is a well-rounded destination that offers something for everyone.

Fredericksburg – Texas Wine Country
If you are looking for a more relaxed getaway, Fredericksburg is the perfect choice. Known for its beautiful vineyards, charming shops, and excellent restaurants, it is a great place to unwind. Spend your time learning about the winemaking process, enjoying tastings, and exploring the scenic Hill Country.

Life at The Links on PGA Parkway

Living at The Links on PGA Parkway means more than just having a beautiful place to call home. It means having access to some of the best destinations in North Texas and beyond, all within a convenient drive. Whether you are heading out for a quick morning hike, a spontaneous afternoon exploring nearby towns, or a full weekend getaway, everything is within reach.

With its prime location in Frisco, The Links makes it easy to enjoy both everyday convenience and weekend adventure. Pack your bags, plan your route, and make the most of living in a place that keeps you connected to everything Texas has to offer.

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

For families of military service members and first responders, the window to access meaningful education support is closing soon.

Folds of Honor – North Texas is currently accepting applications for its 2026 educational scholarships, with a deadline of March 31, 2026. These scholarships support children and spouses from kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as those pursuing higher education, including college, trade school, and postgraduate programs. Applications must be submitted online at foldsofhonor.org/scholarships.

Originally established to serve military families, Folds of Honor has expanded its mission to also support the families of fallen and disabled first responders, reinforcing its commitment to those who serve our country and our communities. Scholarships can help cover a range of education-related expenses, from private school tuition and tutoring to college, technical programs, and advanced degrees.

In North Texas, community support continues to drive this impact. The organization raised $4.6 million at its 2025 gala, directly funding scholarships for local families.

Since 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded nearly 73,000 scholarships nationwide, totaling more than $340 million.

With the March 31 deadline approaching, families are encouraged to apply now or share this opportunity with someone who may benefit.

 

Kathy Beazley
Pin on Pinterest
Photo credit Scarborough Renaissance Festival Springtime fun meets Renaissance charm as young guests participate in the Easter Egg Stroll at Scarborough Renaissance Festival, opening April 4–5 in Waxahachie.

Families looking for a unique way to celebrate Easter weekend can step back in time when Scarborough Renaissance Festival opens its 45th season April 4 and 5, 2026, with festive holiday traditions, immersive entertainment and a full day of family-friendly adventure.

Easter weekend visitors can enjoy an Easter Egg Stroll for children, a Renaissance-style Easter service on Sunday and the festive return of Scarborough’s beloved characters as the Village gates open for the milestone season.

Set within a 35-acre recreation of an English village celebrating the 1545 visit of King Henry VIII and Queen Katheryn Parr, the festival blends history, pageantry and playful fantasy with strolling performers, artisan shoppes, human-powered rides and dozens of live performances.

Opening Weekend Easter Activities

With Easter falling on Opening Weekend this year, the festival offers families a unique way to celebrate the holiday with a blend of festive traditions and Renaissance charm. Children can participate in the Easter Egg Stroll, a playful twist on a classic holiday activity held Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Maypole. Designed for children ages 12 and under, the lighthearted event invites young guests to join village characters for a whimsical egg-on-the-spoon stroll around the Maypole. No registration is required.

On Sunday, April 5, at noon, guests of all ages are invited to attend the Renaissance Easter Service at the Crown Meadow Stage. The abbreviated Anglican-style gathering celebrates the renewal of the season through prayer, music and a message of hope, offering families a meaningful moment of reflection within the festival’s lively village setting.

Families can also take advantage of Kids’ Free Weekend, when children ages 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult, with up to three children admitted free per adult. Children age 4 and under are always admitted free, making Opening Weekend an especially inviting opportunity for families to celebrate spring and begin the festival season together.

Family-Friendly Experiences

Recently voted the No. 1 Renaissance Festival in the Southeast Region at the 21st Annual Renaissance Festival Awards and ranked No. 2 in the nation for family-friendly programming, Scarborough Renaissance Festival offers a wide range of experiences designed especially for children and families.

One of the most memorable traditions for young visitors is the Knighting Ceremony, where children are presented before the Royal Court and recognized for acts of courage and kindness. Each participant receives a commemorative seal naming them a Knight of the Realm or Lady of the Court, creating a lasting keepsake of their visit.

The Mermaid Lagoon invites guests to meet live mermaids in an enchanting tropical setting and interact with these mythical sea creatures during scheduled appearances throughout the day.

Animal lovers will enjoy the Birds of Prey Show, presented by Last Chance Forever Birds of Prey Conservancy. During the interactive presentation, hawks, falcons and other majestic raptors soar overhead while audiences learn about wildlife conservation and the important role these birds play in the natural world.

Young guests are often delighted by Opal the Fairy, a whimsical fae character who spreads joy through bubbles, playful gestures and sparkly surprises that leave children wide-eyed with wonder.

Across the Village stages, families can experience dozens of performances filled with comedy, adventure and daring stunts. The Nature of Mercy Pirates brings swashbuckling sword fighting comedy to the stage with a lively storyline that invites children to become heroes of the adventure. Harmless Danger Juggling combines outrageous humor with impressive juggling stunts and audience participation.

Guests can also enjoy the wildly entertaining Cirque du Sewer, which features trained rescue cats and rats navigating obstacle courses while performing acrobatic feats that have earned national television appearances. The high-energy Kamikaze Fireflies deliver a fast-paced spectacle of fire tricks, acrobatics and rare circus skills, including the giant German Wheel.

Animals, Attractions and Village Adventures

The Royal Menagerie gives children the opportunity to interact with animals such as goats, sheep, pigs and several exotic species. The Mythical Monster Museum offers a walk-through adventure filled with fantastical creatures from dragons to trolls, providing an imaginative experience for guests of all ages.

Each afternoon, villagers, nobles, artisans and performers gather for the Grande Parade, which winds through the Village in a colorful procession before concluding with royal proclamations.

Visitors can test their skills at Renaissance-style games such as archery and crossbow, enjoy treasure mining and explore a variety of human-powered rides including the Dragon Swings, Crow’s Nest and Carousello, preserving the festival’s old-world authenticity.

New Attractions for the 45th Season

New experiences and returning favorites make the 45th season one of the most exciting in the festival’s history.

Guests will witness thrilling armored combat in the new Joust Arena, where knights in shining armor charge on horseback in dramatic tournament battles inspired by historical competitions of the late medieval and Renaissance periods.

Visitors seeking adventure can explore The King’s Dungeon, a new immersive walk-through attraction that reveals the harsh realities of Renaissance-era justice through interactive displays and storytelling.

Also reopening this season is Scarborough Castle: Hauntings of Yore, a self-guided attraction that invites brave guests to wander the castle halls while discovering the eerie legends and ghostly tales said to linger within its ancient walls.

The festival also features a special engagement by viral performer Jacques Ze Whipper, a second-generation Renaissance and circus entertainer who has attracted millions of followers online with his daring whip artistry and charismatic performances.

Artisan Marketplace and Entertainment

Throughout the Village, more than 200 artisan shoppes offer handcrafted jewelry, leather goods, pottery, fine art, clothing and unique Renaissance treasures. Dozens of stages and street performers fill the lanes with music, comedy, swordplay and acrobatics, ensuring there is always something new to discover around every corner.

Tickets and Visitor Information

Tickets are available at SRFestival.com. Admission is $34 for Adults (ages 13+) and $15 for Kids (ages 5–12) plus taxes and fees. Children 4 and under are always admitted free. Some activities, games and rides require an additional fee. Parking is free.

Friends of Faire memberships, Season Passes and Weekend Passes are also available for guests who want to return again and again. Advance discounts will be available at North Texas Tom Thumb and Albertsons beginning March 28. Military and Senior discounts are available at the gate with valid ID.