Dear Readers,

We’re thrilled to share some wonderful achievements, festive fun, and exciting opportunities with you! From celebrating our talented students to upcoming events and contests, there’s so much to look forward to this season.

Take a moment to explore the latest highlights in our newsletter and see how your child can shine creatively @falakarts !

Let’s keep inspiring creativity together!

Warm regards,

 

Guests are invited to resolve to end 2024 in grand style with a New Year’s Eve stay at The Statler, Dallas’ iconic mid-century luxury hotel. The acclaimed hotel will offer guests a spectacular way to ring in 2025 with a limited New Year’s Eve package available on Tuesday, Dec. 31.

New Year’s Eve packages include luxurious accommodations ranging from the hotel’s perfectly appointed deluxe rooms to its world-class suites. Each package includes late checkout and entry for all registered adult and child guests at an exclusive brunch in the hotel’s private dining room.

Guests at the New Year’s Day brunch will be feted with a complimentary glass of Champagne and a robust brunch buffet including:

• Assortment of freshly baked breakfast breads, croissants, and pastries
• Whipped honey butter and house-made berry compote
• Sliced fresh seasonal fruit with berries
• Scrambled eggs with baby spinach and tomatoes
• Chicken fried steak eggs benedict – buttermilk biscuit, poached egg, cream gravy
• Challah French toast, maple syrup, whipped cream, seasonal berry compote
• Applewood smoked bacon
• Chicken apple sausage
• Braised beef short rib, red wine reduction, creamy mushroom polenta
• Pan seared salmon, lemon caper beurre blanc
• Truffle mac & cheese
• Rosemary roasted fingerling potatoes
• Steamed broccolini and glazed baby carrots
• Chef’s assortment of mini desserts and pastries

Guests who want to create additional memories with their stay can choose to purchase tickets to the hotel’s Royal Masquerade Ball in the Grand Ballroom or Countdown in the Sky, hosted in Waterproof, the 19^th-floor pool bar at The Statler.

New Year’s Eve packages start at $554 and can be booked at TheStatlerDallas.com/special-offers.

About The Statler

The Statler is an award-winning iconic Mid-Century design masterpiece famed as one of America’s first modern hotels. The Statler brought the limelight back to Dallas with the original 1956 opening that attracted elites from coast to coast and hosted legendary performances by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, The Jackson 5, and others. With the 2017 reawakening, The Statler is now both a hotel and residences, offering retro-forward style and elevated experiences across 159 upscale guest rooms, 219 luxury apartments, and six uniquely concepted dine and drink venues. The Statler Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton is managed by Aimbridge Hospitality and part of the Historic Hotels of America; The Statler Residences is managed by Centurion American, and the dine and drink venues are managed by Refined Hospitality Concepts. The Statler was redeveloped and is owned by Centurion American. For more on The Statler please visit www.thestatlerdallas.com and connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.

About Curio Collection by Hilton

Curio Collection by Hilton is a global portfolio of more than 115 one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts in nearly 30 countries and territories. Curio Collection properties offer guests authentic, curated experiences through distinctly local offerings and elevated amenities, while providing the benefits of Hilton and its award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors. Experience a positive stay at Curio Collection by Hilton by booking at curiocollection.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Curio Collection by Hilton at newsroom.hilton.com/curio, and follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About Centurion American

Since 1990, Centurion American has developed well over 100,000 single-family lots in dozens of premier communities surrounding North Texas. Centurion has demonstrated the ability to effectively work with investors, landowners, financial institutions, and vendors to acquire over 35,000 acres of land inventory, resulting in a diverse mix of developments varying in size and scope. Delivering award-winning communities with impeccable amenities such as parks, golf courses, and hiking and biking trails, Centurion has successfully designed master-planned communities that have been recognized across the real estate industry.

Centurion has set the standard in purchasing and developing land in prime locations. Their developments have the right combination of natural land settings, strong job growth, good school systems, and access to local community shopping. Over the past 25 years, it is this proven track record of achievements that has consistently created excellent value and ROI for Centurion American partners, investors, builders, and homeowners. For more information visit CenturionAmerican.com.

Current Rockwall City Councilman and longtime Rockwall resident and businessman, Tim McCallum announced today he intends to run for Mayor for the City of Rockwall, in the May 3, 2025, general elections.

McCallum seeks to lead the Rockwall City Council and to bring strong leadership to one of the state’s fastest growing cities.  Since his election in 2023, McCallum has become a central figure in fight against the high density and multifamily developments that have created mounting pressures on the city’s infrastructure.

“As Rockwall continues its dynamic growth, we need to continue our focus on keeping density low and standards high.  The recent approval of additional multifamily and high-density housing developments should be concerning to our citizens.  I have a high sense of urgency to address infrastructure needs and curb the high density and small lot sizes that developers continue proposing within our city.” explained McCallum. “We need to focus on effective traffic and transportation management through a focus on our infrastructure, on supporting economic development to keep our taxes low, updating our Comprehensive Plan to ensure the density that our citizens expect is properly reflected in the plan, and we must lay out a vision for our city that ensure the quality of life we all moved to Rockwall for endures.”

Since most recently running for office in 2023, McCallum has actively sought to make an impact in the city. He has hosted numerous community meetings focused on density and has successfully involved citizens in the fight against these high density developments, and he fought for the control of STRs. He helped ensure the implementation of  the State’s PACE program to promote funding for economic development within the City of Rockwall,  McCallum supported law enforcement through the creation of a Court of Record in the City of Rockwall to stop frivolous appeals from undercutting the city’s policeman, investigators, prosecutor, and judges. Additionally, he opened a Charter Review to focus on election integrity and to ensure citizens have a voice in choosing their elected officials. Finally, he called for and opened a review of the city’s Comprehensive Plan to ensure density and the growth of Rockwall aligns with the citizens current expectations.

McCallum recognizes the challenges facing Rockwall as it grows, including bringing common sense and collaboration to issues including traffic, infrastructure, development and support of the local business community.  As a strong fiscal conservative, he is firmly committed to protect Rockwall citizens from runaway tax hikes during this financially uncertain time and high home valuations.

McCallum is well known for his service to his community, having been twice awarded the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, for his many hours of service to various local and national organizations. Since moving to Rockwall in 1999, he has served in a variety of offices and volunteer positions, including:

• Rockwall City Council 2003-2007
• Rockwall City Council Mayor Pro Tem
• Rockwall Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors.
• Cain Middle School PTA President
• Rockwall Heath HS HBO President
• The Oaks of Buffalo Way HOA President

McCallum currently leads a dynamic team of high-tech professionals as president of Raze Media, a Dallas-based digital marketing agency. Prior to working in digital marketing, McCallum was the Chief Marketing Officer for Incomm International and had an award-winning career in the retail sector as an executive for 7-Eleven, Inc. where he gained appreciation for the everyday challenges facing business owners.

He and his wife Jennifer also own and operate He Wines She Dines, a private winery and wine club in Rockwall. They are members of the First United Methodist Church in Rockwall and have two children, Caroline and Andrew.

For more information on volunteering for or donating to McCallum’s campaign please visit timmccallum.com .

This holiday season, the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary invites families, friends, and nature enthusiasts to step into a winter wonderland like no other at Holidays at the Heard on December 6 & 7 from 6 to 9 p.m. Nestled in the heart of McKinney, Texas, the Heard will blend the joy of the holidays with the serene beauty of nature and the excitement of dinosaurs.

Celebrate the Holidays with Nature's Wonders

During this event, visitors will be captivated on a walk along one of the sanctuary's nature trails accentuated by lights and décor. Plus, guests will be able to get a glimpse of the Dinosaurs Live! exhibit. This enchanting evening stroll will offer a magical escape into a world where wildlife and holiday cheer exist in harmony.

Engaging Experiences for All Ages

This year, we are excited to offer live music performances under the stars that will fill the air with festive cheer, creating the perfect backdrop for your holiday experience. On Friday, enjoy classic Americana-rock sounds and holiday cheer from JCD & Lone Star Attitude. And, on Saturday, La Pompe will bring a little bit of French, a little bit of swing, and a whole lot of holiday fun to the Heard amphitheater. Capture the joy of the season with fun photo opportunities, where families can create lasting memories.

A Commitment to Community and Conservation

The Heard's events not only celebrate the season but also support our commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental education. Proceeds from ticket sales directly benefit our preservation and educational initiatives, allowing us to continue our mission of connecting people with nature and inspiring stewardship of the natural world.

Join Us for a Season to Remember

Whether you're a long-time supporter or a first-time visitor, the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary warmly welcomes you to join our holiday celebrations. More information and tickets are available now at HeardMuseum.org/Holidays-at-the-Heard, with special discounts available for Heard members. Let the Heard be your destination for a truly enchanting holiday experience this year.

Light the Night

The Heard will also offer Light the Night on December 10-14, from 5-8 p.m. After our Holidays at the Heard event dates, these evenings will offer the opportunity for visitors to enjoy a peaceful winter walking tour of one of our nature trails accented with holiday lights and décor.

About Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary

Founded in 1967, the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is dedicated to bringing nature and people together. Located on a 289-acre wildlife sanctuary, the museum offers diverse educational programs, exhibits, and trails that foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the environment.

Organized by the Lake Highlands Women’s League, this annual event raises funds to support local schools and scholarships.

The Lake Highlands Women’s League will throw open the doors and welcome everyone to the 46^th Annual Holiday Home Tour: Holiday in the Highlands, presented by Walne Family Holdings, on Friday, December 6, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. This beloved annual tradition is more than just the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit: Since its inception in 1970, Holiday in the Highlands has raised approximately $3.5 million to benefit Lake Highlands’ schools, community groups and college scholarships.  

Four beautifully decorated homes in Lake Highlands will welcome guests to experience their unique spin on holiday magic. The charming, creative, eclectic architecture and home design in the northeastern Dallas neighborhood of Lake Highlands makes it the perfect locale to host a home tour. Visitors are delighted with ideas, inspiration and a healthy dose of the holiday spirit! 

Attendees will enjoy beautiful holiday displays at four Lake Highlands homes: 

• 9311 Moss Circle Drive, the home of the Allen family: This historic farmhouse built in the 1930s by Harry S. Moss to give a bull he purchased at the Texas State Fair room to roam. Known by their family as Moss Haven, the home was a reprieve from “city life” and was featured in Architectural Digest in January of 1958.

• 7737 Eagle Trail, the home of the Austin family: The horse stables across the street and the resident ostentation of peacocks drew the Austins to their unique lot on Eagle Trail in 2020.  As you tour the home, be on the lookout for many peacock “nods” seamlessly incorporated into art, lamps, wallpaper and even hand towels. With a great appreciation for both family history and the great outdoors, this family has created a beautiful home to cherish for decades.

• 8728 Fenchurch, the home of the Blessing family: This family of six has created the perfect family home that pairs classic sophistication with boyish-rugged charm. Gathering areas for family and friends encourage interaction with an inviting feel while the home’s flow works perfectly for a busy family with four growing boys. On display in the home is a charming and special collection of sketches by Lake Highlands resident and Allison’s best friend, Becky Haas.  Each sketch represents a home the Blessings have lived in along the way. 

• 9617 Shadydale, the home of the Gray family: Mark and Maurie Gray own an architecture firm, M-Gray Architecture, and their talent and eye for detail is evident in every corner of their home. Oak carpentry and several pieces of art celebrate the oak tree, which has been a symbol of strength and stability in the Grays’ marriage: Mark proposed under an oak tree and they married under an oak tree at Maurie’s parent’s farm in Fredericksburg.  A memorable Christmas spent in Sweden inspired a warm, rustic feeling they bring into their home when they decorate for the holidays.

Keep the holiday fun going with a stop at the Sip & Shop, presented by Volvo Dallas, at the Lake Highlands Women’s League Marketplace at the KayCee Club, an event that complements the home tour by offering another way to support the Lake Highlands community. Visitors can shop for holiday treasures from 20 local vendors offering art, jewelry, clothing, food and other gifts while catching up with friends and enjoying a holiday cocktail. Admission is free for the Sip & Shop, which will take place at 10110 Shoreview Road in Dallas on Thursday, December 5, from 4 to 8 p.m.; and on Friday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

 You can also support the cause for the chance to win a great prize by entering the Lake Highlands Women’s League Holiday in the Highlands Raffle. Enter for a chance to win complimentary valet parking at NorthPark Center for a year (just in time for holiday shopping!) for just $25 per raffle ticket (drawing to be held December 6, winner need not be present to win).  

New this year: The giving will continue even after the Sip & Shop concludes! This year, the giving will continue December 7-14 through the Love LH virtual shopping event. Participating local businesses will give shoppers a 10% discount – and will also donate 10% of proceeds to the Lake Highlands Women’s League to help raise money for important local initiatives. More details will be available at www.LHWL.org.

The Holiday in the Highlands Home Tour is chaired by Jenny Littlefield and Stephani Walne, Lake Highlands residents and volunteers from the Lake Highlands Women’s League. They lead an effort assisted by the Home Tour Committee and Finance Committee of volunteers from the Lake Highlands Women’s League, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the Lake Highlands community for more than 50 years.

“The holidays are a season of giving, and we’re grateful that this joy and spirit allows us to fund educational opportunities for our Lake Highlands High School seniors,” Littlefield said. “Seeing them receive their scholarships in the spring feels like the holidays all over again.”

“We invite everyone to kick off their holiday season with us here in Lake Highlands, viewing beautifully decorated homes and making a life-changing difference for a graduating senior by helping us raising funds for scholarships,” Walne added.

Holidays in the Highlands showcases four beautifully decorated homes in Lake Highlands on Friday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets for the home tour are $25 and are available here, along with links to purchase raffle tickets. Admission to the Sip & Shop at the KayCee Club on December 5 and 6 is free. (Hot tip: Bring your Holiday in the Highlands Home Tour ticket to show at the Sip & Shop to get a complimentary glass of bubbly!)

Lake Highlands Women’s League also is encouraging visitor to the home tour to participate in Lunch Around Lake Highlands on December 1 to help support the local restaurant community by dining out at a Lake Highlands area restaurant of their choice.

In 2023, the tour raised $215,000, which directly funded specific projects and services for 12 nonprofit organizations and 13 schools, and provided college scholarships to 33 exceptional Lake Highlands High School students. From supplies and technology upgrades at area schools to car seats for new mothers and summer reading initiatives at area libraries, the Lake Highlands Women’s League heard and proudly responded to a wide range of impactful opportunities.

For more information on Holidays in the Highlands or to learn more about the Lake Highlands Women’s League, please visit www.lhwl.org.