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Located at Juliette Fowler Communities, the preschool offers full-day, Montessori-inspired preschool at no cost to families served
 
Applications are now open for Bezos Academy Dallas - Lakewood at Juliette Fowler Communities (JFC), one of the oldest organizations in Dallas serving youth and seniors. With JFC’s partnership, Bezos Academy will operate a tuition-free, full-day, Montessori-inspired preschool on its campus starting in the 2026-2027 school year. Applications must be received by Friday, April 20 at 7 p.m. (Central time) to be included in a lottery system for placement.
 
Bezos Academy Dallas - Lakewood will feature three classrooms, a dedicated workspace for educators, and an outdoor play area. The program will have space for 60 children, ages 3-5. Bezos Academy covers operating expenses for its preschools at no cost to eligible families, providing everything the children need during the day, including meals and educational materials. The preschools’ Montessori-inspired approach is designed to meet every child where they are and to help them learn and grow at their own pace. The organization hires, trains, develops, and pays talented educators, and it provides everything that the children need during their day, including breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
 
Bezos Academy Dallas-Lakewood will be located at 1234 Abrams Road in Dallas. Families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level (about $132,000 per year for a family of four) with children aged 3 or 4 are eligible to apply.
 
All eligible applications received before the deadline (April 20, 2026, 7 p.m. CT) will be entered into the lottery. Applicants who do not meet the income requirement will receive an ineligibility notification after application. For more information and to apply go to apply.bezosacademy.org.
 
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Founded in 1892, Juliette Fowler Communities is a Dallas nonprofit serving people across generations. Located on 21-acres in East Dallas, Fowler provides housing and support for older adults, including independent and assisted living, memory care, middle-income apartments, and affordable senior housing. It serves young women at risk of homelessness through the Ebby House program and supports 700+ children, youth, and families through its family services and Youth Support Center. Fowler trains 100% of its staff in Hopeful Aging's "I'm Still Here" approach to dementia care, and it is home to the Dementia Friendly Dallas initiative. Recognized as an Intergenerational Program of Distinction, Fowler fosters a community for all ages to belong and thrive. The Bezos Academy Dallas-Lakewood Montessori preschool will open on Fowler’s campus in September 2026. Visit fowlercommunities.org or call 214.827.0813.
 
 
ABOUT BEZOS ACADEMY 
Bezos Academy is a nonprofit organization that is building a network of fully funded tuition-free preschools. Our preschools offer year-round, full-day programming, five days a week, for children from low-income families, ages 3-5 years old. Bezos Academy also provides students with all necessary educational supplies and services to set each student up for success, including Montessori materials, books, arts and crafts, field trips, and meals. For more information, visit www.bezosacademy.org.
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The region’s largest indoor pre-game party on the water features hundreds of boats, exclusive pre-season deals, fan-friendly experiences at Dallas Market Hall Beginning January 30th

 

The Dallas Winter Boat Show is making waves THIS WEEKEND as it returns to Dallas Market Hall for two action-packed weekends, January 30–February 1 and February 5–8, 2026. Timed with the excitement of Super Bowl weekend, this year’s theme—“Boats, Bowls & Big Waves”—turns Market Hall into Dallas’ ultimate indoor pre-game experience, blending lake life, tailgate energy, exclusive boat deals, immersive activations, and family-friendly fun.

Often called “The Super Bowl of Boating,” the Dallas Winter Boat Show will feature more than 600 boats from North Texas’ top dealers, along with the latest motors, watersports gear, marine technology, and accessories. The event delivers the region’s most comprehensive showcase of recreational boating—just in time for peak Texas boating season.

North Texas continues to drive national boating trends as one of the most active freshwater recreation regions in the country:

  • Texas ranks Top 10 nationally for boat registrations, with more than 625,000 boats statewide
  • The Dallas–Fort Worth area is home to a dozen+ major lakes within 90 minutes
  • According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), 68% of boat owners are middle-income households, underscoring the show’s strong family appeal
  • Recreational boating participation has reached 100 million Americans annually, with Texas among the fastest-growing markets

With rapid population growth, rising disposable income, and strong pre-season buying momentum, Dallas has become a national proving ground for new boat models, emerging lake trends, and innovative on-water lifestyles.

“North Texas is one of the fastest-growing boating regions in the country, and this year’s show brings all the excitement of Super Bowl weekend into one massive, immersive event,” said Bron Beal, Executive Director of the Dallas Winter Boat Show. “Whether you’re a first-time boat buyer or a lifelong lake lover, there’s no better place to get inspired, learn, and score the best deals of the season.”

Attendees can explore:

  • Pontoon boats
  • Wake surf and ski boats
  • Center consoles
  • Jet boats and PWCs
  • Electric boat innovations
  • Fishing vessels
  • Luxury cruisers
  • Docks, outdoor accessories, gear, and more

 

 

ABOUT THE DALLAS WINTER BOAT SHOW

 

For more than 40 years, the Dallas Winter Boat Show has been the region’s largest celebration of boating and the Texas lake lifestyle. Bringing together top dealers, manufacturers, and industry experts, the show offers families and enthusiasts a one-stop experience to shop, learn, and get inspired for the boating season ahead.

 

DALLAS BOAT SHOW DETAILS:

When: January 30–February 1 and February 5–8, 2026

Where: Dallas Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, Texas 75207

 

Show Schedule:

Friday, January 30, 2026 from 12-8pm

Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 10am-8pm

Sunday, February 1, 2026 from 10am-5pm

Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 3-8 pm

Friday, February 6, 2026 from 12-8 pm

Saturday, February 7,2026 from 10 am- 8 pm

Sunday, February 8, 2026 from 10 am -4 pm

 

Cost & Ticket Information:

Adults:                                 $15

Children (ages 5-13):       $8

Children under 5:             Free

Parking is free of charge

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_Love Above Dallas - Valentines at Sheraton Dallas

Celebrate love from new heights this Valentine’s Day at Sheraton Dallas with a romantic candlelit dinner on the 38th floor and an exclusive weekend getaway package!

Love Above Dallas: A Romantic Dinner in the Heart of Downtown Dallas

This romantic, skyline-level experience features a candlelit four-course dinner set against sweeping, panoramic views of the city, with a live DJ adding just the right touch of ambiance. Taking place on February 14 from 7 to 10 PM in Sheraton Dallas’ luxurious Chaparral Ballroom on the 38th Floor, the evening starts at $98 per person and offers limited seating for an intimate, elevated celebration.

Guests will check in at the Open Palette hostess stand before being escorted to the dinner. A welcome toast and complimentary self-parking are included.

Guests can indulge in a thoughtfully crafted Valentine’s Day menu that blends seasonal ingredients with elevated flavors, from rich, slow-braised 44 Farms short ribs with sweet purple potato purée to tender sous-vide halibut served over creamy corn risotto to decadent dark-chocolate crème fraîche delice.

Couples can make the night even more special with champagne enhancements, keepsake photo moments, or curated proposal packages designed for unforgettable memories.

Reservations for the Love Above Dallas dinner are required. To secure your table and view the full menu, please see here.

Love in the Heart of Dallas: A Romantic Getaway for Valentine’s Weekend

Enhance your Valentine’s weekend with the Love in the Heart of Dallas getaway at Sheraton Dallas, designed for couples seeking a romantic escape in the heart of downtown. This special package invites guests to a cozy stay just steps from the city’s best dining, nightlife, and cultural attractions, paired with thoughtful perks that make celebrating together effortless and memorable. Couples can enjoy a bottle of champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, breakfast for two the following morning at Open Palette, and late checkout at noon.

From comfortable, stylish accommodations to the chance to explore nearby attractions, entertainment venues, and local favorites, it’s the perfect complement to a Valentine’s dinner or weekend adventure in Dallas, all wrapped in Sheraton’s signature Texas-sized hospitality.

Treat your Valentine to a weekend they’ll remember long after the last toast.

To learn more about the Love in the Heart of Dallas package and book your weekend stay, please see here.

 

Sheraton Dallas Hotel is located in Downtown Dallas at 400 North Olive Street, Dallas, Texas 75201.

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Pyramid Restaurant - Fairmont Dallas_105 Large.jpe

Fairmont Dallas is setting the stage for an unforgettable evening in the city’s culinary heart. Long regarded for its refined approach to seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine,The Pyramid Restaurant will host an exquisite, prix-fixe Valentine’s Day dinner on Saturday, February 14, beginning at 5 PM.

Priced at $125 per person, the five-course experience showcases The Pyramid’s signature balance of sophistication and creativity, offering couples a memorable way to celebrate their affections. Reservations are now open on OpenTable.

Specially curated by Executive Chef Adam Reson, the Valentine’s Day menu features luxe touches such as Kusshi oysters with sturgeon caviar, lychee-pink peppercorn sorbet, and indulgent entrées ranging from saffron-kissed sea bass to an 8-oz prime filet with the option to add foie gras bordelaise.

Fairmont Dallas is located at 1717 N Akard St.

 

VALENTINE’S DAY MENU

Amuse-Bouche

  • Kusshi Oyster. Served on the half shell with sturgeon caviar and fermented chili.

First Course

Choice of:

  • Amberjack. Seville orange, pistachio, mint, and arbequina olive oil.

  • Roasted Heirloom Beets. Prosciutto san danielle, ultra crudite, raspberry, romaine crème fraiche, and honeycomb.

  • Endive. Sourdough granola, pecorino, walnuts, Spanish anchovies, and chardonnay vinaigrette.

Intermezzo

  • Lychee Sorbet. Pink peppercorn.

Entree

Choice of:

  • Risotto. Burrata, tomato conserva, salsify, and mint.

  • Sea Bass. Saffron, calamari, Spanish octopus, and rouille.

  • Duck. Artichoke, roasted almond, and amarena cherry jus.

  • 8 oz Prime Filet. Pommes à ligoté and asparagus. Foie gras bordelais +$35.

Dessert

  • Pavlova. Topped with balsamic-glazed strawberries, served with honey-basil ice cream.
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Dr. Lily T. García, dean of Texas A&M University College of Dentistry and Dr. Joseph DiFazio, chair of the American College of Prosthodontists Education Foundation Board.

 

Texas A&M University College of Dentistry was in the spotlight recently as Dr. Lily T. García, dean, and dental students Jessica Vu and David Qin each received awards at the 55th Annual Session of the American College of Prosthodontists in New Orleans. 

García received the American College of Prosthodontists Education Foundation’s 2025 Founders Society Award, presented in recognition of her significant impact on ACPEF’s growth and her commitment to advancing the prosthodontics specialty. The award honors those who have shown exceptional leadership, vision and service to the foundation and the prosthodontics community.  

García is a former ACP president and a past chair of the ACP Education Foundation Board of Directors. She’s also a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics, a Fellow of the American College of Prosthodontists and holds Fellow status with several other dental organizations. Among García’s numerous honors, she is the recipient of the 2004 ACP Educator of the Year Award. 

 “It is truly an honor to receive the American College of Prosthodontists Education Foundation’s 2025 Founders Society Award,” said García. “My commitment to the ACPEF is based on seeing our residents and predoctoral dental students shine on a national stage. At this meeting, it is with immense pride that we witness the success of two of our students, who were recognized for their presentations. Their work reflects the excellence of their scholarship, the dedication of our faculty mentors, and our college’s commitment to advancing prosthodontic education and research.” 

A&M Dentistry third-year dental students Jessica Vu and David Qin placed first and second, respectively, in the poster research competition Speaking Well at the Speak Easy at the same conference. 

Vu won first place for the presentation “Making the Right Call: Implants of FPDs? Rethinking Anterior Maxillary Restorations.” Vu based it on her dental issues and the desire to have a smile she loves. 

“Not every patient will have a clear-cut treatment plan,” she said. “What drew me to prosthodontics was the careful planning that surrounds a complex case and how we can use our knowledge to help a patient achieve a better quality of life with a smile that is not only functional, but one they can be proud to show off.” 

Qin won second place for “A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Roadmap for Hereditary Dentin Disorders: What Every Prosthodontist Should Know.” 

“What drew me to the field of prosthodontics is the depth and breadth of restorative techniques it offers and the opportunity to learn and utilize them to enhance patients’ lives,” Qin said. “To me, prosthodontics integrates advanced problem-solving and technical skills to provide a challenging yet extraordinarily rewarding experience.” 

 The dental college is in Dallas.

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The start of a new year often brings quiet reflection. Many families think about what they want more of in the months ahead: more purpose, more connection, more ways to show up for the people around them.

For children in foster care across the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, the idea of a “new beginning” can carry special weight. These are children navigating big transitions through no fault of their own, often moving between homes while waiting for stability and consistency. What they need most is not perfection, but care, patience, and a sense of belonging.

Across Dallas County and neighboring communities, the need for foster families continues. Each child represents a story still unfolding and a future shaped by the support they receive today.

Foster care looks different for every family. Some provide temporary care, others step in for relatives, and some offer long-term stability. No matter the path, families are supported with training, resources, and a network that understands the challenges and rewards that come with caring for children in foster care.

As the year unfolds, it offers a chance to consider how small, intentional choices can create meaningful impact. For some, that may mean learning more about foster care. For others, it may simply mean gaining a deeper understanding of the children and families in our community who need support.

EMPOWER is a child welfare collaborative that supports foster parents and helps children find safe, loving homes across Metroplex East — including Dallas, Grayson, Fannin, Collin, Hunt, Rockwall, Kaufman, Ellis and Navarro counties.

New beginnings do not always come with fireworks. Sometimes they begin quietly, with compassion, patience, and the willingness to care.

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The Collin County Soil & Water Conservation District is currently taking orders for conservation tree and shrub seedlings. The purpose of this program is to assist farmers, ranchers & landowners with conservation practices such as windbreaks, noise and site barriers, erosion control and water conservation.  Several varieties of evergreen and hardwood trees are being offered this year. 

The plastic tube container species available include Afghanistan Pine, Austrian Pine, Buttonbush, Desert Willow, Honeylocust (thornless), Italian Stone Pine, Loblolly Pine, Oriental Arborvitae, Osage Orange, Retama, and Texas Ash.  These containerized species are sold in bundles of 25 for $130.00, plus sales tax, and have a top growth of 6-12 inches.

D-40 container species available include Loblolly Pine and Pecan . These seedling species are sold in bundles of 10 for $80, plus sales tax, and have a top growth of 18-24 inches.

All species being offered are tolerable to USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 8, which includes North Texas and all of Collin County, and are provided by the Texas A&M Forest Service.

Conservation tree order forms are available at the SWCD office, 1404 N. McDonald Street, Suite 100, McKinney, TX, or you can request a form via email at Jilane.Carper@tx.nacdnet.net  Tree orders will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis in case of depletion of inventory.  Supplies of some species are limited, so order early for a better opportunity of having your order filled.  All orders must be received by Wednesday, February 18, 2026.  The District promotes the tree seedling sale program solely to encourage conservation.  Tree seedlings purchased from the District are NOT for resale.  Orders will be ready for pick up on or around the week of February 26, 2026.  A reminder email will be sent with pick-up day and time information once it has been confirmed.  If you have any questions or would like more information about the program, please call 972-542-0081 ext. 3.  All proceeds from these sales help fund the SWCD’s conservation and education programs throughout Collin County.

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AfghanistanPine1_571ccde7-d833-4acc-a27c-d77523476

The Collin County Soil & Water Conservation District is currently taking orders for conservation tree and shrub seedlings. The purpose of this program is to assist farmers, ranchers & landowners with conservation practices such as windbreaks, noise and site barriers, erosion control and water conservation.  Several varieties of evergreen and hardwood trees are being offered this year. 

The plastic tube container species available include Afghanistan Pine, Austrian Pine, Buttonbush, Desert Willow, Honeylocust (thornless), Italian Stone Pine, Loblolly Pine, Oriental Arborvitae, Osage Orange, Retama, and Texas Ash.  These containerized species are sold in bundles of 25 for $130.00, plus sales tax, and have a top growth of 6-12 inches. 

D-40 container species available include Loblolly Pine and Pecan . These seedling species are sold in bundles of 10 for $80, plus sales tax, and have a top growth of 18-24 inches.

All species being offered are tolerable to USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 8, which includes North Texas and all of Collin County, and are provided by the Texas A&M Forest Service. 

Conservation tree order forms are available at the SWCD office, 1404 N. McDonald Street, Suite 100, McKinney, TX, or you can request a form via email at Jilane.Carper@tx.nacdnet.net  Tree orders will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis in case of depletion of inventory.  Supplies of some species are limited, so order early for a better opportunity of having your order filled.  All orders must be received by Wednesday, February 18, 2026.  The District promotes the tree seedling sale program solely to encourage conservation.  Tree seedlings purchased from the District are NOT for resale.  Orders will be ready for pick up on or around the week of February 26, 2026.  A reminder email will be sent with pick-up day and time information once it has been confirmed.  If you have any questions or would like more information about the program, please call 972-542-0081 ext. 3.  All proceeds from these sales help fund the SWCD’s conservation and education programs throughout Collin County.

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AfghanistanPine1_571ccde7-d833-4acc-a27c-d77523476

The Collin County Soil & Water Conservation District is currently taking orders for conservation tree and shrub seedlings. The purpose of this program is to assist farmers, ranchers & landowners with conservation practices such as windbreaks, noise and site barriers, erosion control and water conservation.  Several varieties of evergreen and hardwood trees are being offered this year. 

The plastic tube container species available include Afghanistan Pine, Austrian Pine, Buttonbush, Desert Willow, Honeylocust (thornless), Italian Stone Pine, Loblolly Pine, Oriental Arborvitae, Osage Orange, Retama, and Texas Ash.  These containerized species are sold in bundles of 25 for $130.00, plus sales tax, and have a top growth of 6-12 inches.

D-40 container species available include Loblolly Pine and Pecan . These seedling species are sold in bundles of 10 for $80, plus sales tax, and have a top growth of 18-24 inches.

All species being offered are tolerable to USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 8, which includes North Texas and all of Collin County, and are provided by the Texas A&M Forest Service.

Conservation tree order forms are available at the SWCD office, 1404 N. McDonald Street, Suite 100, McKinney, TX, or you can request a form via email at Jilane.Carper@tx.nacdnet.net  Tree orders will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis in case of depletion of inventory.  Supplies of some species are limited, so order early for a better opportunity of having your order filled.  All orders must be received by Wednesday, February 18, 2026.  The District promotes the tree seedling sale program solely to encourage conservation.  Tree seedlings purchased from the District are NOT for resale.  Orders will be ready for pick up on or around the week of February 26, 2026.  A reminder email will be sent with pick-up day and time information once it has been confirmed.  If you have any questions or would like more information about the program, please call 972-542-0081 ext. 3.  All proceeds from these sales help fund the SWCD’s conservation and education programs throughout Collin County.

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Drs. Feng Tao and Lily T. Garcìa, dean

Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas recently presented faculty awards to Drs. Feng Tao, Rashmi Hegde and Janna Burnett. The awards are bestowed upon those who demonstrate strong leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to educating dental students, dental hygiene students, graduate students and specialists. 

Each winner was nominated by the faculty. Awards were given Dec. 17 at George W. Bush Presidential Library during the A&M Dentistry annual faculty retreat. 

“Our mission is to advance excellence in education, leadership and service, and Drs. Tao, Hegde and Burnett embody all three,” said Dr. Lily T. Garcìa, A&M Dentistry dean. “Their dedication to teaching and mentoring students strengthens our academic community and advances the future of dentistry.” 

Tao, professor and associate department head in biomedical sciences, is an internationally recognized specialist in pain management and neuroscience. He received A&M Dentistry’s Premier Performance Award in Service for 2025 for his leadership and service at every level – departmental, college, university and beyond.  

Tao is the chair of A&M Dentistry’s College Research Committee and the Seminar Planning Committee. Outside of A&M Dentistry, He’s an elected member of the Board of Directors of the Texas Pain Research Consortium and served on the United States Association for the Study of Pain’s awards committee. 

“He has secured over $7 million in research funding, published extensively, served on editorial boards and National Institutes of Health study sessions,” said Maureen Brown, clinical assistant professor and interim executive director of the dental hygiene program. “His mentorship has shaped future leaders in science, and his commitment to service and excellence makes him truly deserving of this award.” 

Brown is chair of the Faculty Development Committee’s awards subcommittee. 

“I am honored to be the recipient of the Premier Performance Award in Service,” Tao said. “Since I joined our school in 2014, I have been actively participating in different professional service activities at national and international levels.” 

Hegde, clinical assistant professor in periodontics, received A&M Dentistry’s Excellence in Clinical Teaching Award. She was recognized for her ability to bridge classroom learning to clinical practice, an approachable, interactive teaching style, and a commitment to student success. Hegde instills professionalism and confidence in students. 

“(Her) dedication and clinical expertise make her an outstanding role model and educator,” Brown said.  

Hegde said she’s appreciative that her hard work and dedication were acknowledged. 

“It is indeed a privilege to be a part of a school that values its faculty members,” she said. “I look forward to continuing my journey with greater enthusiasm and motivation.”  

Burnett, clinical associate professor in comprehensive dentistry, received the Teaching Excellence Award for mentoring faculty and students and for serving as a positive role model and strong advocate for student wellness. Her efforts are instrumental in making A&M Dentistry’s Mothers’ Rooms and the Pocket Pantry successful. 

“Her commitment to innovation, professionalism and student success has earned her perfect peer-review scores and exceptional student feedback,” Brown said. 

Teaching and mentoring dental students are among the most rewarding aspects of her career, Burnett said. 

“I am also deeply grateful to the faculty who trained and mentored me and modeled the kind of thoughtful, student-centered teaching I strive to provide,” she said.