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TXWF co-founders Helen LaKelly Hunt, Dr. Catalina E. Garcia, Frances Griffin-Brown, Gwendolyn Oliver, The Honorable Harryette Ehrhardt, Rebecca R. Sykes

On November 14 at the Omni Dallas Hotel, Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) celebrated its Ruby Anniversary Luncheon featuring Christine Baranski, an Emmy, two-time Tony, Screen Actors Guild, Drama Desk and American Comedy Award winner. The luncheon raised $840,000 in support of the Foundation’s mission, including more than $112,000 at the event itself.

TXWF Board Chair Cris Zertuche Wong welcomed more than 950 guests including seven of the organization’s 11 living Founders.  “We celebrate the nearly $90 million granted to women and girl-serving organizations in Texas and more than $25 million invested in research, advocacy and leadership programs for a total impact of $115 million on Texas women, their families, and their futures since the Foundation’s inception in 1985.”

Wong thanked former Foundation leaders and Ruby Anniversary co-chairs: Gail Griswold and Brenda Jackson (1980s), Laura Estrada (1990s), Helen Frank (2000s), and Shonn Brown (2020s) and the sponsors (see list below).

Texas Women’s Foundation President and CEO Karen Hughes White added, “Help us build on the legacy of our Founders as we prepare for the next 40 years. Because, unlike our Founders, the challenges facing Texas women have not aged well. And the solutions have become increasingly complex. It will take all of us to create meaningful, lasting, systemic change that levels playing field for women – and in turn, creates a strong and vibrant Texas for all.”

Throughout the program, TXWF shared video clips of its Founders describing how a group of 19 dynamic and diverse women came together across varied backgrounds, beliefs and political ideologies to advance opportunities for Texas women and their families.

Shonn Brown, former Texas Women’s Foundation board chair, thanked and honored the Foundation’s Founders, including the 11 living Founders who served as the event’s honorary co-chairs:

  • Susan Shamburger Bagwell
  • The Honorable Harryette Ehrhardt
  • Catalina E. Garcia, M.D.
  • Frances Griffin-Brown
  • Helen LaKelly Hunt
  • The Honorable Kay Bailey Hutchison
  • Madeline Mandell
  • Patricia Meadows
  • Gwendolyn Oliver
  • CoYoTe PhoeNix
  • Rebecca Russell Sykes

Brown also paid tribute to the Founders who have passed:

  • Geraldine D. Beer
  • Vivian Anderson Castleberry
  • Maura Anderson McNiel
  • Joy Mankoff
  • Carmen Miller Michael
  • Louise Ballerstedt Raggio
  • Oeita Bottorff Theunissen
  • Virginia Bulkley Whitehill 

She announced that in honor of the 40th anniversary, interviews with several of the Funders will be included in a collection of 40 stories highlighting the passion, purpose and perseverance that have shaped TXWF’s impact.

Sabrina Thomas, the Group Vice President of Target and Speaker Sponsor, introduced Christine Baranski and Caren Lock, TXWF former board chair who moderated the conversation.

Takeaways from Baranski:

Baranski shared stories of her upbringing in a working class family in Buffalo, New York, and how she persevered to achieve her goal of attending Juilliard, an aspiration that ultimately led to her successful 40+-year acting career.

About raising children, being married and working:

  • “I drew upon my strength, grace and resiliency, especially during my working mom days.”
  • “I endured levels of exhaustion and stress.”
  • Her advice was to have “energy, good humor, and walk the walk with your spouse.”
  • “You figure out who needs the most attention that day – your acting partner, your child, your spouse.”
  • “Above all, you must stay healthy and have stamina.”
  • “Don’t get overwhelmed with what you have to do. Get through the next hour, the day. If you think how stressed you are, you will get overwhelmed.”

About aging:

“I was too busy to notice that I was turning a different decade.”

About acting:

  • “I’m in my 70’s, and I’m #1 on call sheets (for acting roles).”
  • “I told my agent I want to play a woman of authority whose well spoken. My first criteria (for a script/role) is smart. To my delight, The Good Wife pilot came out, and I got the role.”

Advice to young women:

  1. “Get an education. Educate yourself in every area. An educated woman will educate her children and sons and be a force.”
  2. “Find your voice, and say it.”
  3. “Have a vision of who you want to be. Embody the best vision of yourself.”
  4. “Don’t apologize.”

For a complete list of sponsors, visit https://txwf.org/join-us/events/luncheon/

Special thank you to speaker sponsor Target and The Suzanne Ahn, M.D. Speaker Endowment Fund.

About Texas Women’s Foundation:

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) raises funds from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support nearly $5 million in investments each year that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $90 million in grantmaking in support of Texas women and girls and another $25 million in research, advocacy, and educational programs for a total impact of $115 million. As the organization prepares for its next 40 years of impact, the need to build #StrongWomenBetterWorld has never been more critical. 

The Foundation’s statewide research on issues impacting Texas women and girls provides corporate, state and local decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. Its advocacy, grantmaking and evidence-based programs support solutions that help remove the barriers to women’s economic security, stability, and success.  In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the mission-aligned investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a values-based portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now

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TXWF co-founders Helen LaKelly Hunt, Dr. Catalina E. Garcia, Frances Griffin-Brown, Gwendolyn Oliver, The Honorable Harryette Ehrhardt, Rebecca R. Sykes

On November 14 at the Omni Dallas Hotel, Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) celebrated its Ruby Anniversary Luncheon featuring Christine Baranski, an Emmy, two-time Tony, Screen Actors Guild, Drama Desk and American Comedy Award winner. The luncheon raised $840,000 in support of the Foundation’s mission, including more than $112,000 at the event itself.

TXWF Board Chair Cris Zertuche Wong welcomed more than 950 guests including seven of the organization’s 11 living Founders.  “We celebrate the nearly $90 million granted to women and girl-serving organizations in Texas and more than $25 million invested in research, advocacy and leadership programs for a total impact of $115 million on Texas women, their families, and their futures since the Foundation’s inception in 1985.”

Wong thanked former Foundation leaders and Ruby Anniversary co-chairs: Gail Griswold and Brenda Jackson (1980s), Laura Estrada (1990s), Helen Frank (2000s), and Shonn Brown (2020s) and the sponsors (see list below).

Texas Women’s Foundation President and CEO Karen Hughes White added, “Help us build on the legacy of our Founders as we prepare for the next 40 years. Because, unlike our Founders, the challenges facing Texas women have not aged well. And the solutions have become increasingly complex. It will take all of us to create meaningful, lasting, systemic change that levels playing field for women – and in turn, creates a strong and vibrant Texas for all.”

Throughout the program, TXWF shared video clips of its Founders describing how a group of 19 dynamic and diverse women came together across varied backgrounds, beliefs and political ideologies to advance opportunities for Texas women and their families.

Shonn Brown, former Texas Women’s Foundation board chair, thanked and honored the Foundation’s Founders, including the 11 living Founders who served as the event’s honorary co-chairs:

  • Susan Shamburger Bagwell
  • The Honorable Harryette Ehrhardt
  • Catalina E. Garcia, M.D.
  • Frances Griffin-Brown
  • Helen LaKelly Hunt
  • The Honorable Kay Bailey Hutchison
  • Madeline Mandell
  • Patricia Meadows
  • Gwendolyn Oliver
  • CoYoTe PhoeNix
  • Rebecca Russell Sykes

Brown also paid tribute to the Founders who have passed:

  • Geraldine D. Beer
  • Vivian Anderson Castleberry
  • Maura Anderson McNiel
  • Joy Mankoff
  • Carmen Miller Michael
  • Louise Ballerstedt Raggio
  • Oeita Bottorff Theunissen
  • Virginia Bulkley Whitehill 

She announced that in honor of the 40th anniversary, interviews with several of the Funders will be included in a collection of 40 stories highlighting the passion, purpose and perseverance that have shaped TXWF’s impact.

Sabrina Thomas, the Group Vice President of Target and Speaker Sponsor, introduced Christine Baranski and Caren Lock, TXWF former board chair who moderated the conversation.

Takeaways from Baranski:

Baranski shared stories of her upbringing in a working class family in Buffalo, New York, and how she persevered to achieve her goal of attending Juilliard, an aspiration that ultimately led to her successful 40+-year acting career.

About raising children, being married and working:

  • “I drew upon my strength, grace and resiliency, especially during my working mom days.”
  • “I endured levels of exhaustion and stress.”
  • Her advice was to have “energy, good humor, and walk the walk with your spouse.”
  • “You figure out who needs the most attention that day – your acting partner, your child, your spouse.”
  • “Above all, you must stay healthy and have stamina.”
  • “Don’t get overwhelmed with what you have to do. Get through the next hour, the day. If you think how stressed you are, you will get overwhelmed.”

About aging:

“I was too busy to notice that I was turning a different decade.”

About acting:

  • “I’m in my 70’s, and I’m #1 on call sheets (for acting roles).”
  • “I told my agent I want to play a woman of authority whose well spoken. My first criteria (for a script/role) is smart. To my delight, The Good Wife pilot came out, and I got the role.”

Advice to young women:

  1. “Get an education. Educate yourself in every area. An educated woman will educate her children and sons and be a force.”
  2. “Find your voice, and say it.”
  3. “Have a vision of who you want to be. Embody the best vision of yourself.”
  4. “Don’t apologize.”

For a complete list of sponsors, visit https://txwf.org/join-us/events/luncheon/

Special thank you to speaker sponsor Target and The Suzanne Ahn, M.D. Speaker Endowment Fund.

About Texas Women’s Foundation:

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) raises funds from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support nearly $5 million in investments each year that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $90 million in grantmaking in support of Texas women and girls and another $25 million in research, advocacy, and educational programs for a total impact of $115 million. As the organization prepares for its next 40 years of impact, the need to build #StrongWomenBetterWorld has never been more critical. 

The Foundation’s statewide research on issues impacting Texas women and girls provides corporate, state and local decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. Its advocacy, grantmaking and evidence-based programs support solutions that help remove the barriers to women’s economic security, stability, and success.  In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the mission-aligned investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a values-based portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now

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Folds of Honor Gala 2025 Mother of Scholarship Recipients Ginger Gilbert Ravella

On November 15, 2025, the North Texas community united in extraordinary support of Folds of Honor – North Texas, the nonprofit that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of U.S. military service members and first responders who have fallen or been disabled in service. Held on the iconic field at AT&T Stadium, the gala raised over $4.6 million to fund life-changing scholarships for these families. More than 1,700 guests attended an evening filled with patriotism and purpose, including a VIP cocktail reception, seated dinner, dynamic live and silent auctions, and high-energy entertainment by the Emerald City Band.

“This gala is more than just a fundraiser — it’s a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when a community comes together for a cause that truly matters,” said Sarah Elliott, Senior Director of Impact and Leader for Folds of Honor North Texas. “Education is one of the most powerful ways we can ensure their legacy lives on. It gives children and spouses of our heroes the opportunity to build a strong future and carry forward the values of service, sacrifice, and resilience.”

A highlight of the evening was a fireside chat between former President George W. Bush and Folds of Honor CEO and Founder Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, whose conversation on service and sacrifice set a powerful tone for the night. 

Guests also heard an emotional tribute from Ginger Gilbert Ravella, mother of five Folds of Honor scholarship recipients, who reflected on her late husband’s service and the organization’s lasting impact. “When my husband, Major Troy Gilbert, died serving our country, I had five children under the age of 9, and I suddenly found myself a widow at 36,” she shared. “This year marks almost 20 years since his passing, and Folds of Honor has never allowed me to feel alone in this journey. When they first contacted me, I never imagined our ship would sail all the way to college, much less to graduate school. Folds of Honor helped that happen.”

This year’s gala surpassed last year’s fundraising total, and the generosity of attendees will directly support thousands of scholarship recipients across the country.

“We are incredibly humbled by the outpouring of support from the North Texas community,” said Mike Beltz, Board Chair for the North Texas Chapter. “Together, we continue to grow this mission and provide vital educational opportunities to the families who need it most.”

The live auction energized the room with an array of exceptional items and experiences, including a 1969 Corvette Stingray, a custom Folds of Honor Jeep Gladiator, and seven nights in Cabo San Lucas at the luxurious Villa Colibrí. Bidders also competed for a premier clay shooting experience featuring Benelli shotguns, a golf getaway for four at Muirfield Village Golf Club, and two Shoals Lagotto Romagnolo puppies with lifetime training. Additional standout packages included a 1-of-1 Custom Folds of Honor Springfield Armory 1911 pistol, two rounds of golf for four at The Bear’s Club with lunch with Jack Nicklaus, and a custom Folds of Honor 1 KG silver mintage bar.

Through the unwavering support of the community, the North Texas Chapter continues to advance Folds of Honor’s mission — ensuring that the families of America’s fallen and disabled heroes have access to the education they deserve.

 

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Dallas PULSE President & CEO & Shannon Win Dallas PULSE President & CEO Grady Raskin and Dallas PULSE Head Coach Shannon Winzer

Dallas PULSE, North Texas’ first professional women’s volleyball team, made franchise history today, selecting outside hitter Mimi Colyer with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 Major League Volleyball draft. The milestone marks the first player ever drafted by the PULSE as the team continues building its inaugural roster ahead of the 2026 season. 

Colyer, a standout at the University of Wisconsin and one of the most decorated collegiate outside hitters entering the professional ranks, is widely regarded as a dynamic, high-impact player capable of shaping the identity of a new franchise. Known for her explosive offense, strong passing, and elite court vision, Colyer will play a central role as the PULSE prepare for their first season beginning January 10 at Comerica Center in Frisco. 

Dallas PULSE continued to strengthen its roster with two additional draft selections. In the second round, Dallas PULSE chose Malaya Jones, an explosive opposite hitter from Southern Methodist University. An American Athletic Conference standout, Jones established herself as one of the most dynamic attackers in the region, known for her powerful left-side swing, versatility in the front row, and exceptional blocking presence. During her career at SMU, she delivered multiple high-impact performances that helped elevate the program’s national profile. 

Jones’ athleticism, scoring ability, and competitive edge make her a key addition to the PULSE’s inaugural roster and a strong complement to Mimi Colyer. 

“We got both of our top picks, and we couldn’t be happier with the results of our very first draft today,” said Shannon Winzer, Dallas PULSE head coach. “We were intentional about our picks and chose players that like to work and compete hard and will be the right type of athlete for the Dallas PULSE.”

With their third-round selection, Dallas PULSE added Carter Booth, an elite middle blocker from the University of Wisconsin and teammate with Colyer. Booth is one of the most dominant defensive presences in the collegiate game. Booth’s 6’7” frame, fast lateral movement, and blocking instincts make her one of the nation’s top middle blockers. 

“Dallas is a hotbed for volleyball, and today’s draft was an incredible milestone for our franchise,” said Grady Raskin, president and CEO of Dallas PULSE. “We were able to add three outstanding athletes through the draft and secure another player through our first trade. This group represents the intensity, talent, and excitement that define North Texas volleyball.” 

The Dallas PULSE home schedule includes:

  • Sat, Jan. 10 – Indy
  • Thu, Jan. 15 – San Diego
  • Thu, Feb. 5 – Omaha
  • Sun, Feb. 8 – Grand Rapids
  • Thu, Feb. 19 – Indy
  • Sun, Feb. 22 – Grand Rapids
  • Fri, Feb. 27 – Orlando
  • Fri, Mar. 13 – Columbus
  • Sun, Mar. 15 – Atlanta
  • Sat, Mar. 21 – San Diego
  • Thu, Mar. 26 – Atlanta
  • Fri, Apr. 17 – Columbus
  • Fri, May 1 – Omaha
  • Sun, May 3 – Orlando

Deposits for season ticket holders are now available on the Dallas PULSE website for home games at Comerica Center in Frisco. 

ABOUT DALLAS PULSE

The Dallas PULSE is North Texas’ first women’s professional volleyball team, competing in Major League Volleyball’s 2026 season. Based at Comerica Center in Frisco, Dallas PULSE echoes the energy, and heart of Dallas-Fort Worth – home to one of the nation’s largest and most passionate volleyball communities. For more information about the team, visit Dallas PULSE or follow the team on social media channels at @DallasPULSEVB for schedule updates, roster announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

ABOUT MLV

Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership, and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. 

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As the holidays approach, and the season’s expectations and demands draw near, it is not uncommon for some, especially older adults, to catch a case of the “holiday blues.” But it’s important to know when it’s more than just the “blues” and how other conditions, like diabetes, can be linked with depression. November is National Diabetes Awareness month, an ideal opportunity to learn how diabetes and depression can go hand in hand. 

Diabetes remains prevalent among older adults. The American Diabetes Association reports that people with diabetes have a higher rate of depression than the general population.  People with diabetes may feel overwhelmed between controlling their sugar levels and trying to participate with family activities and feasts, which can make them feel burdensome.  Some family members may not fully understand diabetes and offer sufficient support or inclusion.  Additionally, older adults can also be more susceptible to depression because of increased loneliness associated with being socially isolated from others.

While depression affects everyone differently, recognizing its signs is a positive step toward managing your mental health right along with your physical health. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that some of the common symptoms of depression to look out for include:

  • Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
  • Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
  • Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
  • Decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling slowed down
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
  • Difficulty sleeping, waking early in the morning, or oversleeping
  • Changes in appetite or unplanned weight changes
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

WellMed Disclaimer: If you or someone you know have thoughts about suicide, seek help right away. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 — or go to the closest emergency room. To reach a trained crisis counselor, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273- 8255). You may also chat at 988.lifeline.org. 

If you experience any of these symptoms for two weeks or more or if your symptoms are severe, be sure to seek medical attention. There are multiple options for the treatment of depression, but for all of them, the sooner help is sought, the more effective the treatment.

The holidays can be a stressful time. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of depression and talk to your doctor to find out more about the links between diabetes and depression so you can take the necessary steps toward healthy living. 

Contributed by Dr. Kevin Shih is a board-certified internal medicine and geriatric specialist with WellMed at Irving.  He received his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed his internal medicine residency at McGovern Medical School in Houston, and geriatric fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Dr. Shih is fluent in English and Chinese and is committed to providing compassionate, quality care to his patients.

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As families prepare to welcome loved ones from across the country for Thanksgiving, The Light Park is lighting the way with one of the most dazzling and accessible holiday experiences in Texas. With locations across Dallas–Fort Worth, The Light Park offers a drive-thru, music-synchronized wonderland that has become a must-visit tradition for both locals and holiday visitors.

With millions of choreographed lights, towering holiday displays, immersive soundtracks, glowing tunnels, and festive treats, The Light Park makes it easy for families to spend time together—without the stress of planning activities or facing unpredictable holiday weather.

“Thanksgiving is one of the most family-filled weeks of the year, and The Light Park offers the perfect way to create new traditions with visiting loved ones,” said Matt Johnson, spokesperson for The Light Park. “It’s simple, fun, and universally joyful—everyone drives away smiling.”

THE PERFECT ACTIVITY FOR OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS

1. Easy, Stress-Free & Weatherproof

Guests simply load into the car, turn up the holiday soundtrack, and enjoy the show from the comfort of a warm, cozy vehicle—perfect for grandparents, toddlers, and visiting relatives who may not want to walk long distances.

2. Affordable Family Fun

With pricing per vehicle, The Light Park is one of the most cost-effective large-scale holiday attractions in Texas. One ticket covers everyone in the car.

3. A Holiday Tradition That “Wows” All Ages

Whether it’s a child’s first light show or a grandparent’s annual holiday tradition, the experience delivers “oohs” and “ahhs” for every generation.

4. Ideal Thanksgiving Week Timing

With many families looking for safe, simple, and memorable activities during the holiday break, The Light Park provides an effortless way to entertain visitors after long travel days or big family meals.

 

5. Perfect for Social Sharing

Visitors love capturing holiday reels, TikToks, and photos inside the glowing tunnels and mega displays—making it a favorite among teens and younger visitors.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT THIS YEAR

 

• All-new synchronized light displays

• Mega-sized glowing tunnels

• Themed holiday villages

• Nightly light shows synced to a curated holiday soundtrack

• Festive food & drinks (varies by location)

• Carload pricing & contactless entry

.

 

WHERE:

Frisco

Riders Field

7300 Rough Riders Trail

Frisco, TX 75034

 

Arlington

Hurricane Harbor Arlington

1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006

 

Little Elm

Little Elm Park

701 W Eldorado Pkwy

Little Elm, TX 75068

 

Guests are encouraged to buy early, as weekend dates traditionally sell out.

*Please note no vehicles over 30ft will be allowed in the park; this includes limousines, trailers, and buses. 

 

Runs Now through January 4, 2026

Most Sundays – Thursdays (11/9/25- 12/18/25) 5:30pm- 10:00pm

Most Fridays – Saturdays (11/7/25-1/3/2026 : 5:30pm - 11:00pm

 

HOLIDAY HOURS

Nov 27, 28, 29, Dec. 19, 2025- Jan 3, 2026 5:30pm-11:00pm

 

Prices available at www.thelightpark.com

 

About The Light Park

The Light Park offers nine parks in Texas: Round Rock, Spring, Katy, Houston Ballpark, San Antonio, Selma, Arlington, Little Elm and Frisco. Each Park features more than one million LED animated lights and boasts the world’s largest synchronized LED light tunnel. Open from November 7, 2025, through January 4, 2026, shows start at 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (weekdays), and 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (weekends and Christmas week); visitors can enjoy a safe and unique experience as they drive through the one-mile holiday light show curated to seasonal music.

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Dallas PULSE, North Texas’ first professional women’s volleyball team debuting in January, will host a Draft Day After Party with free admission on Monday, November 24, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Chop Sports McKinney, welcoming fans to celebrate this historic milestone.
 
The After Party follows the completion of the franchise's first-ever Major League Volleyball draft, where standout athletes will be selected to complete the Dallas PULSE roster in its inaugural season. The team invites North Texas residents to meet the players, connect with leadership, and share in the excitement as the season approaches.
 
“Volleyball has deep roots in Texas, and the PULSE represents the next evolution of that passion,” Raskin added. “The community is invited to come out, and meet some of our players and get hyped for this upcoming season.”
 
Fans will get the inside scoop on the Dallas PULSE team during a special Q&A session moderated by Raskin with Head Coach Shannon Winzer. Local players also will be onsite signing autographs and mingling with volleyball fans.
 
Guests can enter a ticket raffle for the chance to win four Dallas PULSE tickets to a future home game.
 
During the event, Chop Sports McKinney will offer happy hour pricing on select food and beverage items, and NFT enthusiasts will have the opportunity to collect special Dallas PULSE digital tokens.
 
The team will open its inaugural season at Comerica Center in Frisco on Saturday, January 10, hosting Indy Ignite in front of an electric home crowd.
 
Deposits for season ticket holders are now available on the Dallas PULSE website for home games at Comerica Center in Frisco.
 
From courtside energy to community engagement, Dallas PULSE promises more than just great volleyball — it’s an exciting journey. Fans can grab official Dallas PULSE merchandise now at dallasPULSEvb.com to be ready for the inaugural season.
 
Sponsorships and premium experiences are also available to join the momentum behind one of the fastest-growing women’s sports in America.
 
The Dallas PULSE home schedule includes marquee matchups against Indy, San Diego, Omaha, Grand Rapids, Columbus, Atlanta, and Orlando, all hosted in the setting of Comerica Center, where fans can feel every hit, dig, and ace up close.
 
Home matches include:

·       Sat, Jan. 10 – Indy

·       Thu, Jan. 15 – San Diego

·       Thu, Feb. 5 – Omaha

·       Sun, Feb. 8 – Grand Rapids

·       Thu, Feb. 19 – Indy

·       Sun, Feb. 22 – Grand Rapids

·       Fri, Feb. 27 – Orlando

·       Fri, Mar. 13 – Columbus

·       Sun, Mar. 15 – Atlanta

·       Sat, Mar. 21 – San Diego

·       Thu, Mar. 26 – Atlanta

·       Fri, Apr. 17 – Columbus

·       Fri, May 1 – Omaha

·       Sun, May 3 – Orlando

ABOUT DALLAS PULSE

The Dallas PULSE is North Texas’ first women’s professional volleyball team, competing in Major League Volleyball’s 2026 season. Based at Comerica Center in Frisco, Dallas PULSE echoes the energy, and heart of Dallas-Fort Worth – home to one of the nation’s largest and most passionate volleyball communities. For more information about the team, visit Dallas PULSE or follow the team on social media channels at @DallasPULSEVB for schedule updates, roster announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

ABOUT MLV

Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership, and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. 

 

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From Fixing Leaks to Changing Lives: Intown Plumbing Partners with Paper for Water

Royse City, TX — Intown Plumbing, a family-owned and operated plumbing company based in North Texas, has announced a partnership with Paper for Water to help provide clean, running water to families within the Navajo Nation. The partnership was officially announced during Paper for Water’s annual event, where Intown Plumbing owners Brittany and Michael Grose shared their commitment to supporting clean water access for families in need. During the event, Intown Plumbing was honored with the 2025 Corporate Sponsor Award in recognition of their dedication to helping expand clean water initiatives across the Navajo Nation.

Through this new initiative, a portion of proceeds from every whole-home water filtration system, Reverse Osmosis system, or water treatment system installed by Intown Plumbing will be donated directly to Paper for Water for the Navajo Nation in New Mexico. The funds will help support the organization’s mission to bring sustainable, life-changing water and sanitation access to communities in need.

“Intown Plumbing embodies what it means to serve with purpose,” said Deb Adams, Project Coordinator for Paper for Water. “Their passion for clean water and their willingness to give back through their business truly make them a partner we’re proud to work with. Together, we’re bringing hope and health to families who need it most.”

The Navajo Nation is one of the driest areas in the United States. Water is often hauled from as far as 50 miles away to fill residents’ cisterns, and many families still face significant challenges. Nearly 30% lack access to clean drinking water, and 40% do not have running water in their homes. These conditions show just how urgent the need for reliable water solutions is, and Intown Plumbing is committed to helping make a meaningful difference.

“People might wonder why a plumbing company is talking about clean water on a global level,” said Brittany Grose, co-owner of Intown Plumbing. “The truth is, we share something important with Paper for Water and everyone who supports their mission. We care deeply about water, clean, safe, life-sustaining water for every family.”

Founded by Brittany and Michael Grose, Intown Plumbing has built its reputation on honesty, reliability, and making an impact on the community. “We like to say we’re Plumbers with a Purpose,” Brittany said. “We’re not just here to fix leaks or install water heaters. Our goal is to make a difference in people’s lives, both locally and beyond. Partnering with Paper for Water allows us to turn our work into something that creates lasting change.”

Through this partnership, Intown Plumbing hopes to help bring clean, running water to more homes within the Navajo Nation while raising awareness about water access issues across the country.

“We’re thankful and blessed to have the opportunity to serve through our craft,” Brittany said. “This partnership allows us to turn our passion for clean water into something that truly changes lives.”

To learn more about the partnership or to support the initiative, visit intownplumbingtx.com/paper-for-water/.

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Dr. Brad Crump

Dr. Brad Crump, an adjunct clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry’s periodontics department, was recently elected secretary/treasurer of the American Academy of Periodontology, a one-year term, ascending to the role of president over the next four years. The organization represents nearly 7,500 periodontists. 

Periodontists are specialists in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of teeth, and the placement of implants. It is one of 12 specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. 

Crump, who founded BC Perio in Dallas, graduated with honors in 1997 from what was then Baylor College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University System. He became an AAP member 28 years ago and is a past-president of both the Texas Society of Periodontists and the Southwest Society of Periodontists. He is on the AAP board as District 5 Trustee, a position he’s held for the past five years.  

“As secretary/treasurer, I am also chair of the finance committee,” Crump said. “I will be working with the chief financial officer of the academy, setting the yearly budget, in order to execute the strategic plan of the academy, working with the auditors to do our external audit of the academy, and then presenting that budget to the membership for ratification.”  

Keeping membership renewals while maintaining the AAP market share is an important consideration for the board and organization, he said. Educating the public, through their general dentist regarding the importance of preventing gum disease, what periodontists often call “a silent enemy,” is among his personal ongoing efforts. 

The ADA reports gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support teeth. A major cause of tooth loss, periodontal disease, another name for gum disease, is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth.  

“It’s a sub-acute infection, so patients don’t really have any symptoms besides just the physical symptoms of bleeding gums,” Crump said.  

If it progresses, gum inflammation can lead to bone loss and become periodontitis. Periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 in the U.S., according to ADA. Periodontitis leads to the loss of tissue and bone that support teeth. 

Crump joined the A&M Dentistry faculty 25 years ago and teaches on Mondays in the graduate clinic. He earned his master’s in oral biology and certificate of periodontology from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Dentistry in 2000. 

Dr. Deborah Foyle, clinical associate professor, the interim head of periodontics and the director of predoctoral periodontics at A&M Dentistry, said Crump’s national role raises the profile of the college and the department. 

 

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This December, the Turtle Creek Chorale invites the community to welcome the holidays with All Is Bright, a luminous program filled with music that reflects the warmth, wonder, and connection of the season. The concert blends beloved classics with inspiring new works, reminding us that this time of year is about peace, understanding, love, and the joy of being together.

For 45 seasons, this cherished tradition has brought audiences moments of reflection, delight, laughter, and soaring harmonies that stay with you long after the final note. Presented as part of the Chorale’s annual Holiday Tour, All Is Bright will share its spirit across the DFW metroplex, offering a moving and uplifting celebration for all.

Residents looking for an easy way to enjoy the magic of the Chorale this year may want to consider the special “Holidays in a Hurry” mini-concerts on Friday, December 12, at the First Presbyterian Church of Dallas (1835 Young St, Dallas, TX 75201). These one-hour, $25 mini-concerts begin at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., making them perfect for a quick dose of holiday cheer before or after dinner, drinks, or downtown festivities. They offer an accessible and convenient option for families, friends, coworkers, and anyone hoping to fit a meaningful holiday experience into a busy schedule.

Tickets for these mini-concerts are available now at https://www.turtlecreekchorale.com/concerts, and the Chorale encourages early reservations. It is a simple way to support local arts, enjoy beautifully performed seasonal music, and make the most of a December evening in Dallas.