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DQ restaurants in Texas are celebrating the traditions, sweet moments and one-of-a-kind memories Texans have shared over the years with the launch of the “This Is My Blizzard” summer campaign. Stories may be submitted by August 31, 2026 at DQTexas.com/myblizzard.
DQ restaurants in Texas are celebrating the traditions, sweet moments and one-of-a-kind memories Texans have shared over the years with the launch of the “This Is My Blizzard” summer campaign.

From post-game celebrations and birthday traditions to after-school treats, first dates,  family road trips and summer stops on the way home, DQ restaurants in Texas have been part of generations of memories across the Lone Star State. Texans are invited to share their favorite Blizzard Treat memory for a chance to be spotlighted in the official “This Is My Blizzard” summer campaign.

“DQ restaurants in Texas have always been gathering places where Texans celebrate milestones, continue family traditions, and make everyday moments a little sweeter,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “With the ‘This Is My Blizzard’ campaign, we want to hear directly from our fans and share the fun, heartfelt and uniquely Texas stories that make the Blizzard Treat so special.”

Fans are encouraged to submit their Blizzard Treat stories that may include family moments, celebrations, generational stories, quirky traditions, favorite flavor combinations or other meaningful moments connected to DQ restaurants in Texas.

Stories may be submitted by August 31, 2026 at DQTexas.com/myblizzard

As Texans reflect on their favorite Blizzard Treat memories, DQ restaurants in Texas are also celebrating the season with the Summer Blizzard Collection, featuring the new Strawberry Angel Food Cake Blizzard® Treat, the S’mores Blizzard® Treat and the Cotton Candy Blizzard® Treat.

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, X 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.

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Susser Bank has appointed Daniel Voigt as Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager, joining the bank’s Dallas team.

Susser Bank Strengthens Dallas Commercial Banking Team with Appointment of Daniel Voigt,

Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager

 

Susser Bank has appointed Daniel Voigt as Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager, joining the bank’s Dallas team. Voigt brings nearly two decades of experience serving middle-market companies with financing, capital planning and strategic advice.  

Based at Susser Bank’s Dallas headquarters at Old Parkland East Campus, Voigt will focus on expanding relationships with privately held businesses and entrepreneurs across North Texas, helping clients navigate growth opportunities through the bank’s relationship-driven approach and comprehensive banking capabilities. 

“Daniel's experience advising middle-market businesses, combined with his commitment to building long-term client relationships, aligns closely with the way we serve our clients at Susser Bank,” said Carl Cravens, President and Chief Banking Officer of Susser Bank. “As businesses across North Texas continue to seek strategic banking partners, Daniel's perspective and expertise will further strengthen our ability to deliver thoughtful, guidance and long-term value.”

“Susser Bank has built a strong reputation for delivering highly personalized service and long-term partnership to its clients," said Voigt. “I look forward to joining a team that shares my commitment to helping businesses succeed and supporting their continued growth.”

Throughout his career, Voigt has worked with privately held and founder-led companies across a variety of industries, advising clients on commercial lending, treasury management and capital needs. His background includes leadership roles in commercial banking and corporate finance, where he partnered with business owners and management teams to support expansion, improve liquidity and achieve long-term objectives.

Voigt earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Economics from Baylor University’s Hankamer School of Business. He is active in the community and has been involved with professional and civic organizations including the Park Cities Rotary, Dallas YMCA, Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, and Highland Park Presbyterian Church. 

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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Susser Bank has appointed Daniel Voigt as Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager, joining the bank’s Dallas team.

Susser Bank Strengthens Dallas Commercial Banking Team with Appointment of Daniel Voigt,

Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager

 

Susser Bank has appointed Daniel Voigt as Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager, joining the bank’s Dallas team. Voigt brings nearly two decades of experience serving middle-market companies with financing, capital planning and strategic advice.  

Based at Susser Bank’s Dallas headquarters at Old Parkland East Campus, Voigt will focus on expanding relationships with privately held businesses and entrepreneurs across North Texas, helping clients navigate growth opportunities through the bank’s relationship-driven approach and comprehensive banking capabilities. 

“Daniel's experience advising middle-market businesses, combined with his commitment to building long-term client relationships, aligns closely with the way we serve our clients at Susser Bank,” said Carl Cravens, President and Chief Banking Officer of Susser Bank. “As businesses across North Texas continue to seek strategic banking partners, Daniel's perspective and expertise will further strengthen our ability to deliver thoughtful, guidance and long-term value.”

“Susser Bank has built a strong reputation for delivering highly personalized service and long-term partnership to its clients," said Voigt. “I look forward to joining a team that shares my commitment to helping businesses succeed and supporting their continued growth.”

Throughout his career, Voigt has worked with privately held and founder-led companies across a variety of industries, advising clients on commercial lending, treasury management and capital needs. His background includes leadership roles in commercial banking and corporate finance, where he partnered with business owners and management teams to support expansion, improve liquidity and achieve long-term objectives.

Voigt earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Economics from Baylor University’s Hankamer School of Business. He is active in the community and has been involved with professional and civic organizations including the Park Cities Rotary, Dallas YMCA, Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, and Highland Park Presbyterian Church. 

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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Fairmont Dallas Unveils “Venetian Champions Club” in the Iconic Venetian Room

Legendary Dallas venue transformed into an elevated fanzone and luxury sports lounge

Fairmont Dallas announces the debut of the Venetian Champions Club, an elevated fanzone and hospitality-driven sports lounge inside the legendary Venetian Room. Known for hosting high-profile events and drawing some of the most recognizable names in entertainment, including Tony Bennett, Tina Turner, Frank Sinatra, and Ella Fitzgerald, the iconic 4,400-square-foot space will transform into Dallas’ premier destination for the world’s largest sporting event.

From June 11 through July 19, Venetian Champions Club will celebrate Dallas on a global scale. Open to the public throughout the tournament, it will offer an accessible indoor destination where fans, travelers, and locals can gather for a premium hospitality experience centered around the global game in the heart of the acclaimed Dallas Arts District.

The Venetian Room will be completely reimagined into an elevated, high-energy sports lounge featuring a massive 11-by-20-foot main screen, turf flooring, multiple flat-screen televisions, and air conditioning to beat the Texas heat for every match. Guests can enjoy a full bar program featuring specialty cocktails themed around the countries playing in the tournament, local brews on tap at three bars, and daily culinary specials inspired by the nations competing that day.

Designed to blend the excitement of a stadium watch party with the sophistication of a luxury hospitality experience, Venetian Champions Club will also feature interactive experiences, including foosball tables, cornhole, lounge seating, and communal gathering areas designed for fans to cheer on their favorite teams together.

“As a cornerstone of the Dallas Arts District for more than five decades, Fairmont Dallas is thrilled to transform the historic Venetian Room into the Venetian Champions Club,” said David Sher, General Manager of Fairmont Dallas. “As one of the city’s most iconic gathering spaces, the Venetian Room has welcomed celebrities, changemakers, and cultural icons for generations. We are excited to continue that legacy and welcome fans into an unforgettable destination where fans from our city and from around the world can gather, celebrate, and enjoy sporting matches together.”

Conveniently located in downtown Dallas, Fairmont Dallas places guests steps from many of the city’s most celebrated cultural destinations, including the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, and Winspear Opera House. The hotel also offers close access to Klyde Warren Park, Perot Museum of Nature and Science, American Airlines Center, and an array of award-winning dining and retail destinations. Travelers can easily walk to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system for quick, convenient transportation throughout the city, including direct service to Fan Festival in Fair Park, all without the need for a car.

Fairmont Dallas features 545 guest rooms, a rooftop terrace with a garden and Junior Olympic-sized pool, and 70,000 square feet of meeting space. The hotel is home to the Pyramid Restaurant and an on-site Starbucks, making it the premier destination for both business and leisure travelers. In 2024, Fairmont Dallas celebrated its 55th anniversary as one of Dallas’ most iconic hospitality destinations.

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Drumstick® Blizzard Treat returns as the June Blizzard of the Month.

School is out for summer and DQ restaurants in Texas have the perfect reason to add a sweet treat to your summer plans. This June, the fan-favorite Drumstick® Blizzard Treat returns as the June Blizzard of the Month for a limited time through June 30.

This nostalgic summer treat blends choco-covered Drumstick pieces with DQ’s world-famous soft serve. The sweetness from DQ’s signature soft serve with the salty crunch of peanuts brings those iconic flavors of a classic Drumstick cone to the next level.

Just one red spoonful of the Drumstick Blizzard Treat will have DQ fans coming back for more. This Blizzard Treat captures the ultimate feeling of summertime nostalgia, bringing back memories of neighborhood bike rides, afternoons at the pool, backyard cookouts, and all the sweet moments that make summertime the best time. 

“It is always exciting to bring back a fan favorite like the Drumstick Blizzard Treat,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “The sweet and salty flavor combination is hard to beat, making it the perfect treat to enjoy with friends and family this month.”

For fans wanting an extra taste of nostalgia , DQ restaurants in Texas are also serving up the Breakfast Treat Collection, featuring the Choco Frosted Donut Blizzard Treat, Fruity Pebbles Shake, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch Dipped Cone.

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, X 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. 

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Mouths tell dentists a lot about people’s oral hygiene habits. Dr. John Safar, clinical faculty in comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, shared five things they reveal to dentists. 

Whether you’re flossing 

Flossing right before your dental appointment doesn’t fool the dentist. The dentist knows you skipped flossing for months. 

Puffy, swollen and bleeding gums are signs you aren’t flossing,” Safar said.  Bleeding gums are signs that plaque has been sitting there for a while. Hardened tartar between teeth, bad breath, and even early cavities in those tight spaces are also clues.  

Healthy gums are pink and smooth, and they don’t bleed with gentle brushing or flossing.  

It’s never too late to begin a flossing routine to help remove the bacteria your toothbrush can’t reach and keep your gums firm, healthy, and comfortable, Safar said. 

If you may have cancer 

When you go to the dentist for your twice-a-year cleaning, it’s more than maintaining a healthy mouth. The dentist is looking for signs of cancer. 

Swollen lymph nodes and lumps are red flags,” he said. “Unusual sores that aren’t healing or lesions or white patches on the inside of the mouth or gums are also concerning.” 

That you snore 

The shape of your tongue can reveal how well you breathe at night. If you snore, you might notice little waves or dents along the sides of your tongue. This is called a scalloped tongue, and it can happen when your tongue presses against your teeth because your airway is slightly restricted during sleep, Safar said. 

“Treatment could be as easy as fabricating a custom snoring device,” he said.  

A scalloped tongue can also be caused by teeth grinding, a naturally larger tongue, dehydration, vitamin or mineral deficienciesor sleep apnea. 

“If sleep apnea is a concern, your dentist can work with your medical doctor or a sleep specialist to decide whether further testingsuch as a sleep studywould be helpful,” Safar said. 

That you’re anemic 

Pale gums or a pale, smooth or sore tongue can be signs of anemia, often caused by low iron. Without enough iron or vitamin B12, mouth tissues can look pale, feel tender and become more prone to infectiona severe B12 deficiency may cause a “beefy red” tongueIf untreated, it can lead to nerve problems such as numbness or tingling in hands and feet. Anemia can also change how things taste, sometimes causing a metallic taste.  

“A blood test can determine the diagnosis of this easily treatable condition,” Safar said.  

Nearly 10% of people over the age of 2in the U.S. have anemia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

That you have a soda habit 

Soft drinks are acidic and can slowly wear away tooth enamelWith repeated exposure, they can start to affect the underlying dentin and even some fillings. 

You don’t need to give them up completely, but limiting how often you sip them is key,” Safar said. Water, milk, and unsweetened tea are the safest everyday choices, while sodas, sports drinks, and citrus juices are best saved for occasional use. If you do have them, drink them with meals, avoid sipping over long periods, and rinse with water afterward.  

Early enamel softening can often be strengthened again with fluoride and saliva, he saidOnce enamel or dentin is worn away, the loss is permanent and needs dental treatment for repair. 

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It starts with a stomach-drop. You call your dog and he doesn’t come. The next hour turns into panic - photos uploaded to Facebook, posts dropped in Nextdoor and every neighborhood group within range - a fear that doesn’t ease until your furry family member is back safely at home.

Park Cities residents Jen and Zach Munoz know that feeling, and they set out to fix it. Their app, Furmiliar Faces, launched this spring as a private, hyperlocal pet registry designed specifically for neighborhoods like ours and the project has been a family affair from the start, with the Munoz boys, Cole and Jaxon, knocking on doors across Park Cities to invite neighbors in. The problem the Munoz family is addressing is more common than most pet owners realize.

According to AKC Reunite, roughly 1 in 3 pets go missing at some point in their lifetime and most of the time it isn’t dramatic. A lawn crew props the gate. A delivery driver doesn’t fully latch the door. A kid runs in from the pool and forgets to close it behind them. Park Cities is luckier than most: local police carry microchip scanners, which can get a chipped pet home in minutes. But the chip is only as good as the registration behind it. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that roughly 40% of microchipped pets aren’t registered in an active database, and that the leading reason chipped pets don’t make it home is an out-of-date phone number on file. AVMA research found that lost dogs with current chips are returned at a rate of 52%, compared with just 22% without — and for cats the gap is even more dramatic, 38% versus less than 2%. When the chip fails, the only thing left is whether a neighbor recognizes the face on the loose.

“Park Cities is a neighborhood where people actually know their neighbors,” said Jen Munoz, who co-founded the company with her husband Zach. “They wave on walks. They remember your dog’s name. But even here, there’s a gap. When a pet slips out, the neighbors who could help have no idea who he belongs to or how to reach you.”

Furmiliar Faces closes that gap. Pet owners sign up, register their pets, and the neighborhood quietly learns who they are. If a dog ever pulls a Houdini, the people who spot him already know his name, know his family, and know how to get him home. No frantic posting. No waiting and hoping. Just a faster path back.

Here's how it works: every pet on the block gets a profile - photo, name, breed, color. Spot a loose dog and think you know who it belongs to? Filter the registry by breed and color to find them, and ping the owner directly. Don't recognize the dog? Snap a photo and trigger a stray-pet alert to nearby Furmiliar Faces households. Either way, the owner hears in seconds, not hours.

The Munoz family started Furmiliar Faces in Park Cities, and will be opening Furmiliar Faces up block by block. Households in other neighborhoods can sign up too - they’ll be the first to know when the registry reaches their street. Signing up takes about 60 seconds at www.furmiliarfaces.app and is free, always. Even households without pets are encouraged to join. Every set of eyes on the block makes the whole network stronger. For questions or to learn more, contact support@furmiliarfaces.app.

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A Dallas Local Built a Real-Time Public Safety App for the City

 

Dallas moves fast.

Between police activity, accidents, emergency response, traffic incidents, and constantly changing situations across the city, it can be difficult to quickly understand what’s actually happening nearby in real time.

That challenge led to the creation of Talk Dallas Crime — a Dallas-based public safety awareness app designed to make publicly available incident information easier to explore through interactive mapping and live updates.

 

Originally started as TalkDallasCrime.com in 2020,

the project has now evolved into a full iPhone app featuring:

• Real-time Dallas incident mapping
• Live police activity updates
• Interactive neighborhood search
• Smart incident highlighting
• Publicly available scanner audio access
• Dynamic map clustering
• Push notifications for major active incidents
• Searchable locations and incident navigation

 

The app transforms publicly available municipal and third-party public safety data into a cleaner, faster, and more modern mobile experience focused on situational awareness and accessibility.

 

Users can explore active incidents across Dallas using an interactive map, tap incidents for additional details, search neighborhoods or landmarks, and instantly zoom to areas of activity throughout the city.

 

One of the newest features added in Version 5 is integrated access to publicly available Dallas police scanner audio feeds, allowing users to listen to real-time radio traffic directly within the app.

 

The latest update also introduced:
• Improved map performance and responsiveness
• Faster search and navigation
• Enhanced incident prioritization
• Smarter clustering in high-activity areas
• Visual refinements and interface improvements
• Smart push notifications for major incidents

 

The app is strictly informational and read-only. It does not allow crime reporting, communication with law enforcement, or emergency dispatch services.

 

Talk Dallas Crime is currently available on iPhone through the Apple App Store.

Download:
https://apps.apple.com/app/id6766671119

 

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Chairs Amy Green, Meredith Allen Connally; Honorary Chair Anne Seanor; DSOL President, Claire Catrino; Chair Elizabeth St. Marie

Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, the 2026 Fashion Notes LimonCELLO featured Dallas’ own Mackenzie Brittingham as the Fashon Design Award honoree, who brought her signature couture craftsmanship and statement-making aesthetic to life in a most splendid fashion show.
        
Benefiting the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League celebrating its 80th Anniversary, the event was chaired by Meredith Allen Connally, Amy Green and Elizabeth St. Marie who were joined by Honorary Chairs Anne and Bill Seanor and DSOL President, Claire Catrino.
        
The event was a vibrant celebration of spring, style, and the power of the arts. This beloved annual happening brings together Dallas leaders, philanthropists, and tastemakers for an inspiring morning in support of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s education and outreach initiatives.
        
At the Meyerson’s entrance, patrons were greeted by the valet sponsored by Avondale Dealerships and Jewelry Sponsor de Boulle’s signature yellow vehicle literally bursting with blue, green and yellow flowers, echoing the Italian-inspired LimonCELLO theme.
          
Entering the main hall, guests stopped by the beautiful blue, yellow-and-white tiled backdrop for photos, took a chance on their favorite raffle items, and sipped on Prosecco and the day’s signature Limoncello and Aperol spritzes as they enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres. As a special treat, a separate vignette served a decadent crème brûlée cheesecake espresso martini and ladyfingers, also sponsored by Avondale Dealerships, all the while being serenaded by the Dallas Symphony Young Strings cellists Vincent Ramirez Boyce and Carlos Vargas.
          The centerpiece of the room was the opulent fashion show entrance which was framed by two towering arches of lush greenery accented with lemons and flowers in all shades of yellow, placed at the top of the main stairway. In tune with the blue tiled theme, the fashion show seating was set with clear acrylic chairs sporting the same design on the backs, a scene that wowed the crowd with its high style.
        
Welcoming guests on behalf of the League, Claire thanked everyone for their support, saying that when fashion and music come together, something extraordinary happens! She said, “As we were planning this event, we embraced the theme ‘LimonCELLO’ — honoring both the Dolce Vita of Italy where the cello was invented as well as the DSO’s Young Strings students whose dedication to their craft inspires us all.” Continuing, Claire said, “This season has been one of incredible momentum and meaningful impact, and I feel deeply grateful to be a part of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League, a league that continues to grow, evolve and make such a difference in our community.” 
        
Meredith thanked the honorary chairs, and in addition to the sponsors already mentioned, added special thanks to Floral Sponsor 3V Events, and Media Sponsor, PaperCity.
        
Amy enthusiastically recognized Mackenzie as the Fashion Design Award honoree and with heartfelt gratitude, gave a special shout out to the host committee, saying that with their help, today’s event is a sell-out!
        
Elizabeth presented Claire with a gift on behalf of all of the chairs. Gifts of appreciation were also given to Anne and Bill as honorary chairs and to the chairs in honor of their hard work on the event over this past year.
        

Michelle Miller Burns, DSO Ross Perot President & CEO said, “We are thrilled to be part of another stunning Fashion Notes event this year. Fashion Notes beautifully brings together creativity, community and purpose, and we are so thankful to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League and all of the volunteers who made it possible. Their passion and generosity help the DSO thrive, both on stage and throughout the community.”

        
The fashion show was a beautifully curated fashion presentation of Mackenzie’s couture designs, beginning with Calvert Collins-Bratton, emcee, welcoming the crowd and introducing the first models, DSOL President Claire Catrino with her two daughters, Grace and Katherine; followed by Faith Baldwin and her daughter Blake; Mackenzie’s youngest sister, Madison Lacy, with her daughter, Hallie; chair Meredith Connally with her son, Allen; Gloria Steves; chair Elizabeth St. Marie with her daughter Charlotte and son, William; chair Amy Green; and Anne Seanor, Honorary Chair.
        
The music hit a crescendo as the fashion show began, spotlighting 55 different looks in luxury evening wear and custom gowns for mothers of the bride and groom, debutantes, and distinguished socialites. In 2018, Mackenzie launched her Fur Collection, which made an appearance draped over the shoulders of models in dazzling gowns along with her collection of exotic handbags. Designed with the same couture mindset, each handbag is meticulously crafted with exceptional materials and attention to detail.

The custom collection presented during the show drew inspiration from Italy’s landscapes—from the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast to the rolling hills of Tuscany—and translated a strong sense of place into couture form.

Flowing beaded gowns captured the movement of coastal waters, while structured silhouettes reflected the architectural elegance of historic villas. A palette of soft citrus hues, airy ivories, and rich blue tones echoed the “LimonCELLO” theme, complemented by intricate draping, hand-finished details, and globally sourced textiles that spoke to Italy’s heritage of craftsmanship. Each look reflected a distinct moment—from golden hour along the Mediterranean to the ease and elegance of an Italian summer evening—creating an immersive runway experience that felt both transportive and deeply personal.
        
The finale brought a rousing round of applause as Mackenzie walked the runway, waving to friends and taking the stage. Flanked by models in fashions from the finale, she was presented with a huge bouquet of gorgeous flowers.    
        
“Being recognized by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League in this way is incredibly meaningful to me—especially after such a beautiful and inspiring event,” Mackenzie said. “Seeing the collection come to life on the runway, surrounded by a community that values both artistry and philanthropy, was truly special. Fashion Notes represents the heart of what makes Dallas so unique, and I’m deeply honored to have been part of this year’s initiative.”

        
At the luncheon, tables were topped with mixed cloths in delightful designs of greenery with lemons, green and yellow tiles complemented by country-style pressed glasses and centerpieces of bright yellow tulips and softly-hued hydrangeas.
        
The first course, or Primi, was a traditional caprese salad with a delicious balsamic glaze. Secondi was a lemon garlic chicken penne pasta in a zesty cream sauce with asparagus and lemon. Dolci was a perfect trio of desserts: lemon meringue, lemon posset and a classic tiramisu.
        
Fashion Notes continues to be one of the League’s most anticipated events of the season. Proceeds directly benefit programs that introduce young musicians to the orchestra, expand access to music education, and strengthen the cultural fabric of our community.
        
Sponsors also included: LimonCELLO Maestro: Mackenzie Brittingham, Anne and Bill Seanor. Amalfi Sonata: Meredith Allen Connally; Cortez Resources, Claire Catrino; Pendery’s Inc., Amy Green. Capri Virtuoso: Faith Baldwin, the Brittingham Family; Caroline Harrison Loehr, Elizabeth St. Marie and Gloria Steves. Positano Aria: Lori Allen, Marena Gault, Sara Woodall.
        
Proceeds from Fashion Notes benefit the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and its youth education and community engagement programs. Over the past 40 years, the DSOL has raised more than $25 million in support of the DSO.  To learn more about DSOL and its membership benefits and events, visit www.dallassymphonyleague.com

Funds raised by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League support transformative DSO programs, including:

  • The Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concert Series, which introduces Dallas youth to the inspiring world of classical music through accessible concerts at the Meyerson. Each year, more than 10,000 children participate in these experiences.
  • DSO Cares, which brings the wellness benefits of music to senior living facilities, hospitals, community centers and more. Each performance showcases a chamber ensemble of DSO musicians that is free for attendees and community partners.
  • The Young Strings and Kim Noltemy Young Musicians programs, which annually provide free instruments and instruction to 400 children primarily from Southern and East Dallas. Collectively, these programs have served more than 7,000 students and outpace similar youth programs with highly intensive training. Young Strings students have  a 100% high school graduation and college acceptance rate.
  • Bach’s Lunch, an ongoing adult education series of free, informal talks designed to connect music lovers through a shared passion for classical music.

About Mackenzie Brittingham:
             
Mackenzie Brittingham is a Dallas-based designer and founder of her namesake luxury atelier, recognized for custom couture, bridal, eveningwear, luxury outerwear, and bespoke accessories.
         Known for a highly personalized design experience and an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, Brittingham creates one-of-a-kind pieces tailored to life’s most meaningful moments—from weddings and galas to philanthropic events, milestone celebrations, and private commissions.
         Her work spans custom bridal gowns, mother-of-the-bride dressing, debutante presentations, cocktail attire, black-tie eveningwear, day-to-night wardrobe pieces, and specialty occasion dressing. In addition to couture apparel, Brittingham also offers custom fur designs, statement outerwear, and an evolving line of handcrafted luxury handbags and accessories.
         Celebrated for refined silhouettes, exceptional fit, and globally sourced textiles, Brittingham blends timeless elegance with modern femininity. Drawing inspiration from travel, architecture, old-world glamour, and Italian craftsmanship, each design is developed through an intimate collaborative process that honors both the client and the artistry of the garment.
         A longtime supporter of Dallas’ philanthropic and cultural communities, Brittingham’s designs have been featured at many of the city’s most prominent galas, charitable events, weddings, and social occasions. Through her growing atelier, she continues to shape a new chapter of bespoke luxury fashion in Texas while mentoring emerging creatives and championing craftsmanship for the next generation.

 

(Photos by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio and Thomas Garza.)

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East Dallas - Youth Support Center YSC high school diploma graduate Jacob Muniz with proud family

 

Juliette Fowler Communities, R3 Student Outreach and East Dallas Christian Church celebrate one year of transformative support for youth ages 10 to 24

One year after launching its expanded East Dallas partnership, the Youth Support Center (YSC) is celebrating a year of life-changing impact for North Texas youth and young adults. Through a collaboration between Juliette Fowler Communities (JFC), R3 Student Outreach and East Dallas Christian Church, the center has served 335 youth in its first year, providing education, workforce development, counseling referrals and wraparound support under one roof – all at no cost.

Located at 4210 Junius St. on the campus of East Dallas Christian Church, the 4,371-square-foot Youth Support Center was created to remove barriers for youth ages 10 to 24 who face challenges such as foster care transitions, justice involvement, housing instability and lack of educational access. Approximately 35% of its participants have aged out of foster care, and 60% have been justice involved.

In its first year, the center delivered:

  • Services to 335 youth and young adults in 2025
  • 2,640 hours of tutoring for 120 youth
  • 49 high school diploma graduates
  • 35 IBM micro-credentials earned
  • 30 graduates who secured employment or enrolled in college
  • Wraparound support for 220 youth, including food, clothing, bus passes and school supplies
  • A 78% completion rate in training and education programs - 30 percentage points higher than local averages for similar student populations, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 2023 Link, and the Texas Education Agency (TEA), 2023 Link

“One year ago, we hoped this partnership would create a stronger safety net for vulnerable youth and young adults,” said Juliette Fowler Communities President and CEO Nicole Gann. “Today, we are seeing lives changed through education, mentorship, encouragement and practical support. This center represents the evolution of our 134-year mission because it expands how we walk alongside young people as they heal, grow and build brighter futures.”

“The biggest difference between where we started and today is that we have become an integrated, needed resource for our community where youth and organizations are depending on us to continue our work,” said Juan Ramos, founder and executive director of R3 Student Outreach. “When a young person walks through our doors today, they feel at home, safe and they find a place of belonging.”

Ramos said the biggest needs in East Dallas remain access to flexible education pathways, workforce certifications, food, clothing and trauma-informed support.

“In Dallas, current programming still reaches only a fraction of disconnected youth,” added Ramos. “Our no-red-tape model matters because it helps young people get what they need quickly, without falling through the cracks. We also recognize that no two young people are alike, so our programs are designed to adapt to each individual’s needs rather than take a one-size-fits-all approach.”

One student success story that reflects that impact is an 18-year-old single mother of two who was justice involved and referred through Dallas County probation. She overcame family hardship, housing instability, and utility shutoffs to earn her high school diploma in December.

“Without this program, I didn’t think I could do it,” she shared. “This was the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. It took me over six months, but I am very thankful for this opportunity of finally graduating.”

The Youth Support Center’s first year also confirmed the strength of its community-based partnership model. Since launch, more than 10 community partners have joined the effort, helping provide referrals, resources and specialized support. Demand has grown so significantly that the center has occasionally had to pause registration due to capacity.

“While we believe that Fowler’s deep roots and trusted presence in this community strengthen collaborative community partnerships, we know they would not be successful without our compassionate and dedicated partners working hard day in and day out,” said Lisa Mumford, director of programming, JFC. For generations, Juliette Fowler Communities has brought people together to care for neighbors in need, and that strong foundation helps programs like this grow, creating lasting change in the lives we serve.”

“Today, we are so thankful as we watch more and more youth being served and supported through our combined efforts,” said Rev. Allison Drake, senior pastor, East Dallas Christian Church. There are too many places where youth can slip through the cracks, and we know the Youth Support Center is providing a place for them to land.”

Looking ahead, the Youth Support Center plans to strengthen services for younger youth ages 12 to 18 through R3 Excel programming and expand its Nu Generations Private School into a full-semester option while continuing fast-track diploma opportunities.

To support the Youth Support Center or learn more about programming, visit r3student.org/dallas or call 469-921-0481.

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ABOUT JULIETTE FOWLER COMMUNITIES (JFC)

With a 134-year history of caring for all ages, Fowler's intergenerational mission creates a unique purpose-driven retirement culture in the heart of Dallas. Home to almost 500 older adults, JFC hosts the Dementia Friendly Dallas initiative and is accredited as a Connected Community of Distinction through Hopeful Aging, embracing the I’m Still Here® philosophy – reflecting its commitment to compassionate, high quality dementia care. Young women in danger of homelessness live at Fowler in the Ebby House residential program, and over 700 children, youth and families receive resources through Fowler's Children, Youth, and Family Services. Fowler is adding a Bezos Academy affordable Montessori program for young children in the fall 2026. Since 2022, JFC has been honored as a Generations United Program of Distinction and has continued to maintain this designation each year. As the premier national recognition for high-quality intergenerational programs, the distinction recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence, innovation, and evidence-based impact in bringing generations together. Visit fowlercommunities.org or call 214.827.0813.

R3 STUDENT OUTREACH

Founded in 2019 in San Antonio, Texas, R3 exists to bring renewal, revival and restoration to the minds and hearts of youth and young adults. In middle school, Juan Ramos, R3 founder and executive director, was severely bullied by classmates and teachers. Carrying the burdens of these past experiences, he never forgot the need for youth support. In 2019 after learning of youth suicides due to bullying, Ramos took action, and with the help of friend and partner, Angela Brown Williams, he opened R3 Student Outreach, which has served more than 10,000 youth and young adults since opening. This faith-based agency has expanded services into North Texas in partnership with Juliette Fowler Communities and provides tutoring, workforce development, certifications, mentorship, food, clothing and resources – helping those aged 10 to 24 excel in personal development and academic pursuits at no cost. Visit r3student.org/dallas or call 469-921-0481.