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Heather Ormand, CEO, Nexus Family Recovery Center and Louise Hallam, Vice President, Philanthropy and Community Involvement, Ben E. Keith

Ben E. Keith is honored to announce a donation of $100,000 to Nexus Family Recovery Center, helping to successfully close out Phase 1 of their Recovery Rising Campaign and meet their fundraising goal of $10 million. Nexus Family Recovery Center is a vital resource for individuals and families facing substance use disorders (SUD), providing comprehensive, family-centered care that addresses homelessness, family disruption, economic hardship, and incarceration. The funds will be used to bring the Doswell Medical Building to life, creating a new gateway to the Nexus campus that will house essential services such as Admissions, Detox, and Medication-Assisted Treatment.

 

“Recovery and health services is a top priority, so Nexus was a natural fit with the mission of the Ben E. Keith Foundation. Alcoholism and substance abuse has affected members of my family, so it is important to us to help give to organizations that can facilitate healing in various communities,” said Louise Hallam, Vice President, Philanthropy and Community Involvement, Ben E. Keith. “I had the opportunity many years ago to do service work on the Nexus campus. I got to experience first-hand how special the connection of these women coming together to support one another to overcome their addictions truly is. It gives them a safe community for their children to get better as well. Nexus truly is a magical place.”

 

In April 2022, Nexus launched the Recovery Rising Campaign with an ambitious goal of raising $86 million to address critical capital, programming, and capacity needs. As part of the transformative five-phase Campus Vision Plan, the entire Nexus campus will undergo a complete renewal, expansion, and revitalization. By 2031, this effort will double Nexus’ capacity, ensuring future generations have access to a state-of-the-art recovery community.

 

“Ben E. Keith’s generosity has been instrumental in helping Nexus Family Recovery Center advance our mission of empowering women and families on their journey to recovery. Their recent $100,000 gift helped us close out Phase 1 of our Recovery Rising campaign, which brought the Doswell Medical Building to life—an essential space for providing critical medical and behavioral health services. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to making a lasting impact on the women and children we serve." stated Heather Ormand, CEO, Nexus Family Recovery Center.

 

For more than a century, Ben E. Keith has been a leader in fine food and premium beverage distribution. The food division is a complete broad line distributor servicing twenty states, and the beverage division serves more than 62 Texas counties and is a proud distributor of Anheuser-Busch InBev products, craft and import beer brands, spirits, fine wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. Ben E. Keith is dedicated to the growth and success of their customers, industry partners, and employees—continuing their commitment to delivering quality since 1906. Beyond this meaningful contribution, Ben E. Keith has been a dedicated annual sponsor of the Nexus Auxiliary Brunch & Bazaar since its inception in 2021, aligning with Nexus’ mission to bring hope and healing to those affected by substance use disorder.

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TWU Vital Signs Melanie Contreras The Hope that Lies with COPD, 2025

Fourteen student artists from Texas Woman’s arts program will launch an inaugural group exhibit featuring works that explore the intersection of art and nursing, with a focus on health care issues faced by the elderly.

The exhibit, “Vital Signs: Art, Health, and Aging,” opens May 9 and runs through May 31 at the Janette Kennedy Gallery in Dallas (Southside on Lamar, 1409 Botham Jean Blvd #105, Dallas, TX 75215). The exhibition is a collaborative project involving Dr. Aaron Loeb, assistant clinical professor at TWU’s Houston campus and Giovanni Valderas, a drawing and painting professor at TWU’s Denton campus.

The project will feature artwork created by TWU art students, each of whom will address an illness commonly affecting the aging population — such as heart disease, diabetes, or COPD —through their artwork. In collaboration with nursing students, the students will explore creative ways to visually chart the human experience, not only to represent the illness but also to convey hope.

“Through abstract artwork, the aim is to examine how the integration of artistic practices with nursing can help inform best practices for both fields,” Valderas said. “This exhibit will also highlight the value of an innovative learning environment where liberal arts and health sciences programs work together to deepen students' understanding of the intersections between art and science. Moreover, it aims to raise awareness within the broader community about the aging population, the illnesses they endure, and how we can promote a greater social responsibility through education.”

Exhibition Dates: May 9 – May 31, 2025

Reception: Sunday, May 31, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Location: The Janette Kennedy Gallery, 1409 Botham Jean Blvd #105, Dallas, 75215

Hours: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday

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Photo by Karlo Ramos

Celebrating Hispanic heritage and tradition, the Dallas Cinco de Mayo Parade – presented by the Oak Cliff Coalition for the Arts (OCCA) – is set for Saturday, May 3, from 8 a.m.-noon in Dallas’ Oak Cliff neighborhood. Billed as the biggest and longest-running parade in North Texas, the mile-long procession will take place on historic Jefferson Boulevard, a vibrant hub for Hispanic communities and businesses. Free and open to the public, the annual celebration is funded in part by the Dallas Tourism Public Improvement District and other sponsors. NBC5/Telemundo39 is the official media sponsor.

The festivities will commence with the official welcome at 8 a.m.at the Oak Cliff Cultural Center, located at 223 W. Jefferson Blvd. Expect a warm Texas welcome with coffee, pan dulce (pastries) and deejay music.

“Our slogan is ‘It’s history, it’s tradition, let’s celebrate!’” said Sylvana Alonzo, OCCA Founding Member. “The Dallas Cinco de Mayo Parade & Fiesta is a must-see event, offering endless fun for all ages. It’s the perfect opportunity for parade-goers to immerse themselves in the rich and vibrant Hispanic culture that contributes so greatly to the Dallas community.”

At 9 a.m. the celebration kicks off with the Parade Step Off Confetti Shoot at the corner of 300 W. Jefferson Blvd. and S. Madison Ave. Local officials and guests of honor will lead the long-anticipated Cinco de Mayo Parade with dozens of colorful floats, decorated vehicles, marching bands, inflatables, dance groups and more, showcasing the spirit and joy of the community along historic Jefferson Boulevard.

The Parade Review Stand, located at the 500 block of W. Jefferson Blvd. & S. Llewellyn Ave., will feature bilingual emcees to announce the parade entries as judges tally their votes for Best of Parade awards. 

A longtime favorite is back! Making a special return appearance is the iconic Selena Movie Car – a candy-apple red 1969 Chevrolet Impala lowrider, featured in the 1997 film about the Tejano singer, Selena Quintanilla-Pérez. The owner of the car, Lewis Sevilla, has been in to lowrider cars since he was about 14,and was honored to be chosen for the movie. Photo ops and selfies will be available immediately after the parade from 11 a.m. to noon at the Selena mural located at 306 S. Bishop Ave. All-day photo ops are encouraged at both the Selena Mural and at the OCCA Cinco de Mayo Mural at 532 W. Jefferson Blvd.

New this year are the popular and trending parade characters – created in the Mojiganga style – that are sure to instill excitement! The giant puppets will be designed to resemble iconic Mexican personalities. Spectators will have a chance to vote for their favorite Mojiganga puppet, with the winning entry receiving a monetary prize.

Parade goers will enjoy deejay music by Tejano to the Bone Radio Network and vendor booths at the 500 block of W. Jefferson Blvd. For sponsorship details and parade information, visit oakcliffart.org.

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The Links on PGA Parkway in Frisco

Carbon Companies and Greenway Investment Company, Dallas-based privately owned real estate firms, secured a loan for approximately $125 million to finalize the large-scale, luxury multifamily development, The Links on PGA Parkway, in Frisco, Texas. The loan, arranged by the Carbon Companies team, will be used to complete the final phases of the four-phase, 38-acre development. 

The Links on PGA Parkway is located at 15950 Paramount Way in Frisco, off of PGA Pkwy and Dallas North Tollway. The first two phases of the development, which opened in December 2021 and October 2023, introduced 690 units and a two-acre city park. With financing secured for the final two phases, an additional 620 podium-style units will be constructed with 815 underground parking spots. Each building will be complete with its own state-of-the-art wellness facilities and resort-style amenities. The Links on PGA Parkway will offer a total of 1,310 residential units after all phases of the development are complete. 

“We are grateful to all of our partners for working together to secure the loan to deliver the final phases of The Links on PGA Parkway,” says Ed Garahan, CEO of Carbon Companies. “We are proud of this development and look forward to offering luxury housing to more residents in Frisco.” 

The first two phases of the community feature a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with modern finishes and appliances, stylish interiors, top-tier amenities, and spacious common areas. The state-of-the-art amenities include two resort-style pools with outdoor lounges, two clubhouses, two fitness centers, a grab-and-go market offering grocery essentials, an advanced golf simulator, and complimentary yoga classes and golf lessons from local golf professionals. 

Located in the heart of the Frisco Urban Village, The Links on PGA Parkway is at the center of a rapidly growing and desirable area. Ideally situated near the Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa – home to two 18-hole championship golf courses – PGA of America Headquarters, The Star, Stonebriar Centre, and Baylor Scott & White’s Health Complex, the residential community offers unparalleled comfort and convenience. With an array of dining and entertainment options nearby and easy access to the Dallas North Tollway, residents can enjoy luxury and accessibility. 

There are also several highly-anticipated, unique developments in the pipeline nearby, including Universal Kids Resort set to open in 2026, and the Fields West village which will feature premier retail, dining, entertainment, office spaces, and residences. Just across the street, Firefly Park is set to transform 160 acres into a vibrant destination, complete with a 45-acre park, scenic biking and walking trails, water features, luxury townhomes, multifamily residences, and an upscale hotel, all slated for completion in 2027. Adding to the area’s appeal, the City of Frisco and Prosper Independent School District plan to partner to develop the over $300 million, state-of-the-art “ Frisco Center for the Arts” performance hall, to be located at the northwest corner of the Dallas North Tollway and PGA Parkway. 

With the completion of the Dallas North Tollway expansion and easy access to top attractions in the area, The Links on PGA Parkway offers an unbeatable location. Once its third and fourth phases are completed in 2027, this luxury multifamily development will be home to nearly 2,000 residents in the Frisco Urban Village.

 

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Cheers to Mom on her special day! Dodie’s Cajun Diner on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard offers an amazing view with an even more amazing Mother’s Day brunch on Sunday, May 11 from 11am-2pm.

First, treat mom with a special cocktail of $4 Mimosa, Tequila Sunrise, or Bloody Mary as she takes in the gorgeous scenery with her favorite people! But don’t forget why you are here – our special brunch buffet suits the queen that she is.

Choose from perfectly seasoned Cajun favorites like Crab Cake Benedict with chipotle hollandaise, Beignet French Toast with Smoked Gouda Grits, or our Chicken Fried Chicken brunch plate. Don’t miss the fan-favorite Chicken & Waffles with amaretto maple syrup!

Mother’s Day seating fills up quickly so reserve a table today so Mom can sit back, relax, and enjoy a day reserved just for her.

The award-winning Dodie’s Cajun Diner is located at 2067 Summer Lee Drive on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard in Rockwall offering stunning views of the lake while you dine indoors or outside on the patio. Featuring authentic Cajun favorites and a festive New Orleans vibe, Dodie’s is the place to celebrate with family or friends. Visit us at Dodie’s Cajun Diner or call 972-771-0004 for more information.

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Children thrive when they have regular interactions with responsive, caring adults, yet neglect is the most reported form of child maltreatment that can have long-term effects on children’s health and development. Child abuse is an ugly reality of society, and awareness and prevention are crucial in making a difference and making the world a better place for children of all ages.

Child abuse is not limited to young children. Older children and adolescents can also experience abuse, whether it comes from their parents or within a romantic relationship. It also occurs across all socioeconomic levels, ethnic and culture lines and religion and education levels.

An important advocate for children in the Metroplex East region is Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). CASA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit social service agency focused on protecting children, restoring childhood and helping child victims of abuse and neglect achieve their full potential. CASA volunteers are voices for abused and neglected children in court and their ultimate goal is to help ensure that all of the children in protective care find safe, permanent homes where they can thrive. 

To find local volunteer opportunities in Dallas, please visit https://www.dallascasa.org/about-dallas-casa/. For volunteer opportunities outside of Dallas, please visit https://texascasa.org/how-to-help/. To report suspected child abuse or neglect, please call 1-800-252-5400. 

 

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Dr. Alicia Spence leads the recruitment and admission office that shaped her academic life and career. She’s expanding the College of Dentistry’s recruitment reach to more colleges and geographic areas in Texas. 

Dr. Alicia Spence was named director of recruitment and admissions at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry March 17, after more than a decade in various teaching and administrative roles at her alma mater. Spence was tapped as interim director in 2024 and served on the admissions committee for several years. 

Dr. Ernestine Lacy, associate dean of student affairs, praised Spence’s work ethic, energy and positive attitude.  

“She brings to this position needed experience, innovative ideas and professionalism,” Lacy said. “Dr. Spence has both a sincere love of the College of Dentistry and a genuine care for its students and everyone at the college.” 

In Spence’s role, she travels the state to recruit students from major universities, including Texas A&M, the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Texas at Dallas and the University of North Texas. She will increase recruiting efforts to include Texas Tech University, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and smaller colleges and universities in person and via video conferences. 

“Ninety percent of our students are from Texas; it’s required,” she said. “They come from all over. We get students from Texas A&M, of course, and from UT-Austin, the University of Houston and from the Dallas-Fort Worth area.” 

Spence’s devotion to Texas A&M’s dental college in Dallas runs deep. 

A kinesiology major at Rice University in Houston, Spence was about to enter her senior year when she shadowed at her family’s longtime dentist in San Antonio. A six-week summer predental enrichment program at the dental college later gave her hands-on experience and the confidence to pursue dentistry. 

Spence wasn’t accepted the first time, so she entered a post-baccalaureate program at the dental college while taking science classes at UTD. She married and had a baby while in dental college, so she relates to nontraditional students. 

“My faculty were so supportive,” she said. “I had to be organized, and I had to be careful with my time, but they were on my side. They wanted me to have all the resources that I needed. They wanted me to be successful, and I could feel that.” 

Spence graduated in 2012 and, after working for a mobile practice treating geriatric patients, returned to the college as a full-time faculty member in 2014 because she wanted to help students. She continues to teach as a clinical assistant professor in comprehensive dentistry, co-founded the dental college’s Mental Health and Wellness Committee and mentors student researchers. 

“Our students come from all over, and I like that because they will treat patients from all over,” Spence said. “They will go back to all these areas of Texas that need them.” 

 

 

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For one night only on May 17, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra presents Beethoven X Beyoncé, an electrifying mashup of classical genius and pop royalty! Maestro of the mashup Steve Hackman fuses the pulse of Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony with 15 of Queen Bey’s biggest bangers – from “Single Ladies” to “Texas Hold ‘Em.”

Three powerhouse vocalists, a live band, and the full force of the DSO turning the concert hall into a dance floor. It’s bold. It’s genre-defying. It’s the Renaissance of classical, pop and R&B colliding in spectacular fashion.

Classical music has never slayed this hard. Don’t miss it!

Tickets start at $59 and are available at dallassymphony.org.

 

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

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On May 9-11, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra invites you to surrender to the rhythm at ¡Bailamos! A Night of Latin Music, a fiery celebration of Latin music, movement, and irresistible passion. Under the baton of Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik, the Meyerson will pulse with the heat of tango classics, romantic ballads, and the intoxicating sound of the bandoneón.

Vocal powerhouse Edna Vázquez takes the stage with her fearless fusion of Mexican folk, pop, rock, and soul, spreading a message of light, love, and cultural connection. Her voice is pure fire, and her presence? Magnetic.

Feel the heartbeat of Buenos Aires as GRAMMY® Award-winning bandoneón artist Héctor Del Curto performs the timeless works of tango icons Astor Piazzolla and Carlos Gardel, including the showstopper “Por Una Cabeza.” Argentine tango masters Celina Rotundo and Hugo Patyn ignite the stage with every passionate kick, glide, and embrace.

It’s bold. It’s romantic. It’s unforgettable. Join the DSO for a night where music moves you in every way!

Tickets start at $35 and are available at dallassymphony.org.

 

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

Kathy Beazley
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Photo Credit Steve Thrasher

North Texas, get ready to turn up the heat! The 4th Annual Tacos & Tequila Festival is rolling into Panther Island Pavilion on Saturday, May 17, 2025. 

Presented by Tapatío™ Frozen Meals, Tapatío® Hot Sauce, and Social House Entertainment, this 21+ party is all about epic throwback beats, bold street eats, handcrafted cocktails, and nonstop fun. It’s a one-day-only, flavor-packed explosion of music, food, and culture—and you do not want to miss it.

???? ICONIC HIP-HOP + R&B ARTISTS LIVE ON STAGE

Bring your crew to the largest lineup that Tacos & Tequila Festival has ever had and relive the golden era of hip-hop and R&B with performances from:

  • Busta Rhymes – Hip-hop heavyweight behind “Woo Hah!!” and “Break Ya Neck.”
  • Timbaland – Game-changing producer and chart-topper.
  • Pretty Ricky – The ultimate 2000s slow jam squad.
  • Soulja Boy – “Crank That” pioneer and viral legend.
  • Trina – The baddest to ever do it.
  • Trick Daddy – Dirty South icon bringing serious Miami heat.
  • Mike Jones – WHO?  Mike Jones!
  • Frankie J – Smooth Latin vibes and Grammy nods.
  • Mims – This is why he’s hot.
  • Petey Pablo – Still raising up NC energy.
  • DJ Ashton Martin – Spinning non-stop vibes and dance bangers.

???? NORTH TEXAS FLAVORS ON FULL BLAST

Feast on a taco-lover's paradise with top local vendors like: Flores Home Cooking, Salmark BBQ, BRT Smoked Tex Mex, Los Brothers, MexiBoujee Tacos, Doss Tastebudz, Frezko Taco Spot, Alley Trap Fin & Wings, Nana Dot’s Southern Sweets and more. Expect creative takes on tacos, elote, Tex-Mex fusion, and over-the-top street eats to fuel your fiesta.

???? HANDCRAFTED MARGS + TEQUILA VIBES

Cool off between bites at one of the many margarita bars with signature sips like:

  • Salted Watermelon
  • Pineapple
  • Mango Habanero
  • Skinny Watermelon
  • And the classic Social House “House” Margarita

Head to the Tequila Shot Bars for sips of smooth and smoky tequila, or check out the Cayman Jack River Shack, where you can chill, take pics, try new Cayman JACKED drinks, and live your best cocktail life in true island-inspired style. 

????‍♂️ LUCHA LIBRE + COMPETITIONS + PET GLAM

Cheer on your favorite masked warrior at the Lucha Libre ring as high-flying luchadores bring the drama, the flips, and the showdowns that blend wrestling, pop culture, and international fandom.

???? QUESO + SALSA SMACKDOWN

Vote for your favorite queso or salsa at participating food trucks and you could help crown the King or Queen of Dip! The winner gets $250 and eternal bragging rights.

???? CHIHUAHUA BEAUTY PAGEANT

Does your pup have that extra sparkle? Enter them into the Chihuahua Beauty Pageant for a chance at a $200 gift card + trophy and the admiration of a taco-loving crowd. (Register your chihuahua HERE.)????✨

???? TAPATÍO™ TAKES CENTER STAGE

Meet the crew from Tapatío™ Frozen Meals and step into their lounge-style booth experience. Spin the wheel for a chance to win spicy swag, snap a pic in their 360 photo booth, and get cozy while learning about the bold, spicy essence of their new frozen meal line—made for flavor fanatics and heat seekers alike.

???? PLUS:

  • Art installations & photo ops
  • Exotic car showcase (Want in? Register your ride HERE)
  • Live DJs all day

????️ TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

This 21+ only party is your permission slip to relive your favorite throwback jams, taste every taco in sight, and sip margaritas under the Texas sun with your favorite people.

???? Grab tickets and get all the details at www.tacosandtequilaDFW.com.

  • $69 General Admission - limited time offer
  • $119 General Admission for 2 - limited time offer
  • $169 VIP - limited time offer
  • VIP Party Deck Pass available - pricing varies

TACOS. TEQUILA. THROWBACKS.
This is not your average food fest. This is DFW’s boldest, baddest bash of the year. Come hungry, come ready, and come get spicy.

DATE

May 17, 2025

1:30-11pm

LOCATION

Panther Island Pavilion

395 Purcey St

Fort Worth, TX 76102

FOLLOW THE FIESTA

SPONSORS

Tapatío™ Frozen Meals, Tapatío® Hot Sauce, Social House Entertainment, Tixr, Cayman Jack, White Claw Hard Seltzer, Majic 94.5, 97.9 The Beat, Rodeo TX, Cerveza Modelo, Corona, and Cerveza Pacifico Clara.

ABOUT TACOS AND TEQUILA FESTIVAL

The Tacos and Tequila Festival is a multi-city celebration of hip-hop, incredible food, and craft tequila. Having captivated audiences in San Antonio, Dallas/Fort Worth, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Sioux Falls, and Winnipeg, this high-energy event continues to bring fans back to the golden era of hip-hop with legendary performances and an unbeatable festival atmosphere.

ABOUT SOCIAL HOUSE ENTERTAINMENT

Social House Entertainment is a full-scale event production company born out of Kansas City. We specialize in producing large scale music festivals in unique outdoor venues, specialized community events, food, and beer festivals and many other types of events of all sizes. We are passionate about elevating live event experiences all around North America.