Staff & Reader Submitted
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

Set in the heart of the Dallas Arts District, the largest contiguous urban arts district in the United States, Fairmont Dallas is welcoming spring travelers with an elevated urban escape that blends luxury accommodations with walkable access to the city’s top cultural institutions.

The 545-room property offers floor-to-ceiling skyline views, chef-driven dining at Pyramid Restaurant, and a standout amenity for warmer months: a Junior Olympic-sized rooftop pool surrounded by a lush garden terrace overlooking downtown. Guests looking for a more exclusive stay can book Fairmont Gold, the hotel’s residential-style experience featuring a private lounge, dedicated concierge service, and curated food and beverage offerings throughout the day.

The hotel also makes an ideal home base for exploring the surrounding district on foot, with cultural landmarks like the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, and Winspear Opera House just steps away. Across the street from Fairmont Dallas is the upcoming Dallas Art Fair (April 10–13) at Fashion Institute Gallery, which brings international galleries and collectors to the neighborhood, adding to the season’s energy.

 Fairmont Dallas is located at 1717 N Akard St, Dallas, TX 75201.

Gravatar

Women from across North Texas gathered at the Loews Arlington Hotel and Convention Center for the 15th Annual Inspired Women Luncheon. The luncheon’s official theme, “Unmatched,” represented a mindset and commitment to challenge the status quo and embrace possibility, bolstering the belief that leading with confidence and decisive actions can lead to transformative change.

Keynote speaker Conni Reed, founder, CEO & chief creative officer of Consuela, shared the creative journey behind her values-driven company. Reed told the origin story of Consuela and how her artistic talent, paired with rugged authenticity, allowed her to turn her passion into a thriving nearly 20-year-old handbag business.

Headquartered in Austin, TX and Guanajuato, Mexico, Consuela operates on three guiding principles: Create Art, Support and Uplift Women, and Work in Mexico. Reed’s mission and enthusiasm closely aligned with the vision of the Women’s Alliance, reinforcing the event’s focus on believing boldly and acting decisively. 

As Women’s History Month begins, events like this serve as a reminder to celebrate the women who lead, mentor and inspire within the Park Place organization and in the community. Park Place recognizes the incredible women who continue to shape its culture of excellence and contribute to its success every day. 

Park Place Dealerships served as the event’s official luxury vehicle sponsor for the xx year in a row. Park Place Members Lexie Arzamendi, Sarah Celestial, and Josselyn Jimenez attended, taking part in networking opportunities, professional development sessions, and silent auctions.  

About Park Place Dealerships

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and employs more than 1,400 members. Park Place Dealership operates three collision centers, an auto auction, and nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. For more information, visitparkplace.com.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Breakthrough T1D Amy Camp, Darla Cook, Maggie Pascaly, Kats Harris

Supporters gathered on March 5 for the Patron Party kicking off the 2026 Dallas Gala benefiting Breakthrough T1D, celebrating an exciting milestone: 30 years of the Dallas Gala’s impact in the fight against type 1 diabetes. 

 

Hosted by the Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Showroom, the evening also honored the company’s long-standing connection to the T1D community. In the 1930s, Sub-Zero founder Westye Bakke created one of the first reliable home refrigerators after his young son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and needed a safe way to store insulin. That legacy continues today, with Sub-Zero supporting research and families affected by T1D.   

 

Guests enjoyed live entertainment by Goga Music, delicious bites and cocktails, a wine tasting from Waters Edge, and a whiskey tasting from Garrison Brothers Distillery while connecting with fellow supporters and advocates dedicated to advancing research and hope for those living with T1D. 

Throughout the evening, Breakthrough T1D Youth Ambassadors – students living with T1D who help amplify the organization’s mission through fundraising, volunteering, and advocacy –could be spotted in their signature bright blue shirts. In addition to selling tickets for a $5,000 sweepstakes prize, several ambassadors, who are student musicians at Highland Park High School, entertained the crowd with a lively musical medley. 

 

The program featured remarks from Dallas Chapter Board President Deb Sloan, the Swartwout family – this year’s featured Fund A Cure Family – and 2026 Gala Honoree Dr. Perrin White. Harper Swartwout shared part of her journey living with T1D, the hope that research breakthroughs offer the next generation, and the profound impact Dr. White, her endocrinologist, has had on her life and future aspirations. 

 

“We are especially honored to serve alongside this year’s honoree, Dr. Perrin White,” said Harper Swartwout. “Dr. White has been alongside me ever since the clinical trial I was part of landed in Dallas. He is a great doctor and the reason I want to go into medicine one day.” 

 

The Johnson Family – Stacey and Dave Johnson, Chelsea and Blake McMullen, Kendall and Michael Kelly, and Rylie Johnson – are serving as chairs of the 2026 Dallas Gala, making this year especially meaningful as the event celebrates three decades of impact and Chelsea’s own 30-year “diaversary.” 

 

“Now is the time to do more – now is the time in our mission’s history,” continued Sloan. “This is the room that will change the course of this disease. If not us, then who? You know why you’re here. Let’s all make an impact.” 

 

The Breakthrough T1D Dallas Gala will be held on April 11 at the Omni Dallas Hotel. Visit https://www.breakthrought1d.org/dallasfortworth/ for more information and to support the event.  

About Breakthrough T1D: 
Founded in 1970 as the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation (JDF) and renamed the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) in 2001, the organization rebranded in 2024 as Breakthrough T1D to reflect a bold commitment to improving the lives of both children and adults living with type 1 diabetes. As the leading global organization driving T1D research, advocacy and community engagement, Breakthrough T1D accelerates progress toward cures and better treatments while making everyday life easier for everyone affected. The North Texas and Oklahoma Territory comprises the Dallas, Fort Worth and Oklahoma Chapters that host major fundraising events across the region, including the annual luncheon in Dallas, galas in Dallas, Fort Worth, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City as well as local walks in The Colony, Durant, Tulsa, Fort Worth, and Oklahoma City. Visit breakthrought1d.org/northtexasoklahoma, email northtexasoklahoma@BreakthroughT1D.org, or call 214-373-9808. 

Photo credit: Celeste Cass

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The First Oak Cliff Cultural District Jigsaw Puzzl

The Oak Cliff Cultural District (OCCD), in partnership with the Oak Cliff Society of Fine Arts, is thrilled to announce its first-ever fundraiser: the Oak Cliff Cultural District Jigsaw Puzzle Competition with Honorary Chair, Dallas County Commissioner Dr. Elba Garcia. This exciting, high-energy event will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Tyler Street Church located at 927 West 10th Street Dallas 75208.

As Dallas prepares to welcome the world for World Cup this summer, the OCCD is launching this inaugural competition to support the organization's mission of assisting the twenty local arts organizations and the local community in showcasing the vibrant culture of Oak Cliff.

"This is more than just a game; it’s a way for our community to piece together a brighter future for the arts in the Oak Cliff Cultural District," says Todd Hedrick, chair of the Oak Cliff Cultural District. "Whether you’re a serious 'puzzler' or just looking for a fun morning with friends or family members, this event supports the vital work of preparing our district for the global stage."

Details at a Glance:

  • When: Saturday, April 11, 2026, | 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Where: Tyler Street Church, 927 West 10th Street, Dallas, TX 75208
  • Who: Teams of four players each (ages 8+) $100
  • Registration online at www.oakcliffculturaldistrict.org/events
  • Sponsorship opportunities starting at $500 available

For more information on registration or sponsorship, please contact the Oak Cliff Cultural District at info@oakcliffculturaldistrict.org or Augustine Jalomo at 214.718.2384.

About Oak Cliff Cultural District
The OCCD is dedicated to promoting the arts, heritage, and unique cultural identity of the Oak Cliff community. By partnering with local arts organizations, the OCCD ensures that the district remains a premier destination for residents and international visitors alike.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

After a bathroom remodel, most homeowners want their new space to stay looking fresh as long as possible. The good news is that a few simple cleaning habits can help protect surfaces like stone countertops, grout, glass, and fixtures.

Here are a few easy ways to maintain your bathroom without damaging the finishes.

1. Skip Harsh Cleaners

Many common cleaning products contain bleach, ammonia, or strong acids that can damage grout, dull natural stone, or discolor metal finishes.

For everyday cleaning, warm water with a few drops of dish soap works well for most surfaces. Ceramic tile and porcelain can handle a mild vinegar-and-water solution, but natural stone like marble or granite should be cleaned with soap and water only. Always use a soft microfiber cloth to avoid scratches.

2. Let Steam Do the Work

Steam is one of the safest ways to loosen soap scum and buildup. A handheld steam cleaner can help clean grout lines, glass shower doors, and tight corners without harsh chemicals.

No steam cleaner? Running a hot shower with the door closed for a few minutes creates steam that helps loosen residue before wiping surfaces down.

3. Use Baking Soda for Tough Spots

Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that works well for things like soap scum, toilet stains, and dirty grout.

Mix it with a little water to form a paste and scrub lightly with a soft brush. Avoid using baking soda on natural stone or polished metal fixtures.

4. Keep Glass Clear

Glass shower doors can quickly develop hard water spots.

Spray a mix of equal parts water and vinegar on the glass and wipe with a microfiber cloth, then buff dry. If your shower includes natural stone, skip the vinegar and stick with mild soap and water.

5. Maintain Grout Regularly

Grout tends to darken over time, but regular maintenance helps keep it looking fresh.

Wipe grout weekly with warm water and a small amount of dish soap. For deeper cleaning, use a soft toothbrush with a baking soda paste. Reapplying grout sealer once a year can also help prevent stains.

6. Build Small Cleaning Habits

A few simple routines can make a big difference in keeping your bathroom clean.

  • Wipe down counters after daily use

  • Squeegee shower glass after bathing

  • Run the exhaust fan during and after showers to reduce moisture

  • A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way

Breaking cleaning into small tasks helps prevent buildup and protects the materials in your bathroom. Gentle, consistent care can keep surfaces looking new for years.

 

These homeowner maintenance tips were shared by the team at Kitchen Design Concepts to help local residents care for their kitchens and bathrooms.

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Danny Elfman’s Music from the Films of Tim Burton.

This weekend, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra is bringing a truly cinematic concert experience to the stage with Danny Elfman’s Music from the Films of Tim Burton, running March 13-15.

In this spellbinding collaboration between legendary composer Danny Elfman and visionary filmmaker Tim Burton, audiences will experience the whimsical and dramatic scores from Burton’s most beloved films performed live by the orchestra. As the music unfolds, original sketches, drawings, and storyboards from Burton’s creative archives are projected above the stage, immersing the audience in the imaginative worlds that have defined their decades-long partnership.

Adding to the excitement, Elfman himself will appear as a special guest alongside conductor Sarah Hicks, violinist Sandy Cameron, and the Dallas Symphony Chorus for select vocal moments that highlight Elfman’s signature sound. The program features music from fan-favorite films, including Edward Scissorhands, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Batman, Beetlejuice, and more.

This unique multimedia performance blends live symphonic music, film, and visual art, offering both film lovers and classical audiences a rare opportunity to experience Elfman and Burton’s iconic collaboration in a completely new way.

Tickets start at $75. Secure your spots now at dallassymphony.org.

Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center is located in Downtown Dallas at 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

North Texas’ Favorite Bar-B-Que Stacks Four Smoked Meats on a King’s Hawaiian Bun

 The Boss is back and it is bigger than ever. Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has officially welcomed the return of the Boss Hog, a fan-favorite sandwich stacked high with four smoked meats and served on a sweet King’s Hawaiian bun. The hearty barbecue creation is available for a limited time at all Soulman’s locations through May 20, 2026.

The Boss Hog lives up to its heavyweight reputation. The sandwich features Soulman’s signature sausage, tender pulled pork, hickory-smoked ham, and crispy bacon, all piled onto a soft King’s Hawaiian bun. It is a bold combination of smoky, savory and slightly sweet flavors that barbecue lovers across North Texas have come to crave every time the sandwich returns to the menu.

“The Boss Hog has developed a loyal following among our guests,” said Brett Randle, CEO of Soulman’s Bar-B-Que. “At Soulman’s we believe barbecue should be generous, bold and unforgettable. We are not stingy with our meat, and the Boss Hog is the ultimate proof of that philosophy.”

Each of the meats featured on the Boss Hog is prepared in true Soulman’s fashion, slow-smoked over hickory wood to deliver the rich flavor and tenderness the brand has been known for since 1974. The result is a sandwich that blends smoky pulled pork, savory ham, flavorful sausage and crispy bacon into one towering bite.

“Every time we bring the Boss Hog back, our guests immediately start talking about it,” Randle added. “It is fun, it is indulgent, and it represents everything people love about Texas barbecue.”

Originally introduced as a limited-time special in 2016, the sandwich quickly became one of Soulman’s most talked-about menu items. Its return has become a highly anticipated moment for loyal guests who know the larger-than-life sandwich will only be available for a short time.

“The Boss Hog is exactly what barbecue should be,” Randle said. “Four slow-smoked meats, stacked high, full of flavor and meant to be enjoyed without holding back. It is a true heavyweight champion of our menu.”

The Boss Hog is priced at $9.99 for the sandwich or $14.99 for a combo meal, which includes one of Soulman’s homemade sides and a 32-ounce drink. Guests can experience the Boss Hog at all Soulman’s Bar-B-Que locations across North and East Texas through May 20, 2026, while supplies last.

Brooke Mayer

By Brooke Mayer

The Winston School in Dallas, Texas has been approved as an International Baccalaureate (IB) Candidate School for the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP), marking an exciting milestone as the school celebrates its 50th anniversary. The designation begins the process toward offering one of the world’s most respected academic frameworks to students who learn differently.

As a candidate school, Winston will begin faculty training and program development this spring while working toward full authorization. The school will align programs with the MYP framework for students in grades 6–10 during the 2026-2027 school year. Looking ahead, Winston also intends to add Diploma Programme (DP) candidacy in Fall 2028, with the first cohort of IB Diploma candidates anticipated to graduate in Spring 2030.

The International Baccalaureate is a globally recognized educational framework known for its rigorous, inquiry-based approach to learning. The MYP encourages students to think critically, make interdisciplinary connections, and apply their learning to real-world challenges while developing strong research, communication, and problem-solving skills.

For The Winston School—a school dedicated to bright students who learn differently—the IB philosophy closely aligns with its mission. The program emphasizes conceptual understanding, project-based learning, and multiple ways for students to demonstrate mastery, allowing teachers to maintain high expectations while providing the structured support and differentiated instruction learning different students need to succeed.

Once fully implemented, Winston will be the only independent school in Texas, specifically for learning different students, to offer the IB Programme, joining other exemplary schools worldwide that provide this opportunity.

“Tomorrow’s leaders are today’s students. The IB Programme offers our talented, incredibly creative students the connectivity, critical thinking, and community engagement essential for nurturing a globally and future-focused mindset. The IB curriculum is designed to be inclusive, accessible, and individualized, making it perfectly aligned to Winston's mission of serving students who learn differently,” said Dr. Jenn Milam, the Pamela K. Murfin Head of School.

Founded in 1975, The Winston School in Dallas has spent five decades empowering bright students who learn differently. Launching the IB journey during the school’s 50th anniversary year reflects Winston’s continued commitment to evolving its academic program while remaining true to its philosophy of providing a high-challenge, high-support environment where students can thrive.

For more information about The Winston School, go to www.winston-school.org. 

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The Mint Crunchin’ Cookie Dipped Cone features DQ’s world-famous soft serve dipped in a minty-flavored coating with choco cookie crumbles for that perfect texture.

For fans feeling lucky this March, DQ® restaurants in Texas are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with the new Mint Crunchin’ Cookie Dipped Cone and the Mint OREO® Blizzard® Treat, available while supplies last through the end of March.

The Mint Crunchin’ Cookie Dipped Cone features DQ’s world-famous soft serve dipped in a minty-flavored coating with choco cookie crumbles for that perfect texture. This treat is ideal for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up in-restaurant or on the go.

Fans at DQ restaurants in Texas are no stranger to the Mint OREO Blizzard Treat. The returning Blizzard of the Month blends DQ’s world-famous soft serve with crunchy OREO cookie pieces and a cool mint topping. This treat delivers spoonfuls of delicious, crunchy, minty, creamy goodness in every bite.

“This month, DQ restaurants in Texas are leaning into the St. Patrick’s Day celebration by serving up new and fan-favorite treats,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “The new Mint Crunchin’ Cookie Dipped Cone and the Mint OREO Blizzard Treat are delicious, and a must-try this season.”

Looking for something savory to enjoy with your minty sweet treats? Sample the Chicken Tender Country Basket, served with crispy fries, Texas toast and the DQ’s signature creamy gravy.

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 7,000 franchised locations in the United States, Canada, and more than 20 other countries. 

Kathy Beazley
Pin on Pinterest
Photo credit Southwest Festivals LLC

Scarborough Renaissance Festival and Scarborough’s Hollow Fall Fantasy Festival have been recognized by fans across the country in the 21st Annual Renaissance Festival Awards, earning top honors as Favorite Renaissance Festival (Southeast) and Favorite Faery/Fantasy Festival, respectively.

The annual awards are voted on by Renaissance festival fans nationwide and celebrate the artisans, performers and creative talents who bring the magic of the Renaissance to life each season.

“We are honored that fans across the country continue to recognize the passion, creativity and dedication that define the Scarborough experience,” said Veronica Castelo, general manager of Southwest Festivals LLC. “These awards reflect the incredible work of our performers, artisans and cast members whose talent and commitment create the immersive world our guests return to year after year.”

The Festival also congratulates the many Scarborough-affiliated artisans and performers recognized in the 2025 awards, including:

  • Don Juan & Esmeralda — 1st Place, Group Variety Show

  • Adam Crack — 2nd Place, Whipping Performance

  • Blackhawk Metalworks — 3rd Place, Favorite Houseware

  • Blonde Swan Hats — 2nd Place, Favorite Headwear

  • Dreamie and Hullabaloo Henna — 3rd Place, Favorite Wearable Art

  • Gnome and Fairy Pottery — 1st Place, Educational Demonstration

  • Jacques Ze Whipper — 1st Place, Whipping Performance

  • Joshua the Ventriloquist — 2nd Place, Favorite Puppeteer/Ventriloquist

  • The Knarly Knot — 3rd Place, Favorite Drinking Vessels

  • Midnight Orchid Design — 3rd Place, Favorite Apparel

  • Moor of Dundee — 1st Place, Music and Vocals, Solo Performer in the Lanes

  • Patchwork Moon by Luna — 2nd Place, Favorite Jewelry

  • Queen Anne’s Lace — 2nd Place, Favorite A Capella

  • Rhiannon Oils and Incense — 3rd Place, Favorite Perfume, Soap or Incense

  • Sarah Marie Mullen — 2nd Place, Favorite Solo Performer

  • Syndicate Academy of Sword & Skill — 2nd Place, Educational Demonstration

  • Washing Well Wenches — 1st Place, Small Comedy Performance

  • Wondrous Works in Wood — 2nd Place, Favorite Drinking Vessels

The 2026 season will also welcome back two award-winning performers recognized in this year’s Renaissance Festival Awards: Tartanic, named Favorite Instrumental Group, and fan favorite Opal the Fairy, who placed third in Favorite Faery, bringing their celebrated talents back to the Scarborough stage.

The recognition comes as Scarborough Renaissance Festival prepares to celebrate its milestone 45th season in 2026, continuing a decades-long North Texas tradition that draws visitors from across the state and beyond.

The festival runs April 4 through May 25, 2026, open Saturdays, Sundays and Memorial Day Monday, transforming a 25-acre English village in Waxahachie into a fully immersive 16th-century celebration of history, entertainment and adventure.

The 2026 season will feature several new experiences and returning favorites, including a spectacular new joust arena and royal dais for tournament action, the reopening of Scarborough Castle: Hauntings of Yore, the immersive King’s Dungeon attraction exploring Renaissance-era justice and punishment, an expanded Viking Artisan Village with dozens of new artisans joining the marketplace, and a dozen new shows performing across the Festival village.

Following the spring season, the site will again host Scarborough’s Hollow Fall Fantasy Festival, which returns for its second season in 2026 after a widely popular inaugural year. The immersive autumn festival transforms the Crown Meadow area of the Scarborough grounds into a world of magic, mischief and seasonal wonder. Guests can explore artisan shoppes, enjoy live entertainment, participate in interactive activities for all ages and experience whimsical attractions with a touch of spooky delight.

Once a year, Renaissance festival fans from across the country vote to recognize the performers, artisans and festivals that create the immersive worlds audiences love. The awards celebrate the people and places that continue to keep Renaissance culture, storytelling and craftsmanship alive for new generations.

To learn more about both festivals, visitwww.SRFestival.com or follow SRFestival on Facebook,Instagram TikTok, and YouTube.