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Online banking allows you to access your money with just the click of a mouse or a tap of your finger. But that ease of entry can also give fraudsters a way into your personal information without you even realizing it. If you’ve ever been a victim of a fraud scam, you know the sinking feeling. That’s why it’s important to create as many safeguards as possible to protect your bank account from fraudsters. To start, educate yourself on what you’re up against. Fraudsters use many different techniques to gain access to your information. This might include:

  • Phishing

This scam uses fake emails and/or websites posing as legitimate and trusted organizations to fool you into divulging personal financial information that is then used to commit identity theft or other types of fraud. Voice Phishing (Vishing) more specifically refers to a scam done over the phone in order to fool you into giving out personal information.

  • Smishing

Fraudsters send a linkless text message claiming there’s been a bank transfer from your account. If you answer the ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question in the text message, you then receive a phone call almost immediately from a person claiming to be from your bank’s fraud department. They then ask you for your online banking username and tell you to read back the passcode sent to you via text or email. They may claim this is so they can verify you are the accountholder. When the fraudster enters your username into your banking website, he/she initiates the “forgot password” feature, which generates this passcode text message. By giving out this passcode, you allow the fraudster to reset your password and successfully gain access to your account without your knowledge.

  • Online Banking Scam

In one version of this scam, fraudsters will contact you via text or email claiming there is fraud on your account. The scammer will request remote access to your computer and then advise you to log into online banking. Once they have access, the fraudster will put up a fake page so you cannot see what they are doing and secretly transfer money out of your account via Zelle®. They could also transfer funds between your accounts and then advise you that you have been refunded more than your fraud, and you need to wire the difference back to them. If the scammer makes a transfer while they have access to your computer and online banking, it will not appear to be suspicious activity to the bank, as it is originating from your normal IP address (your device).

These are just a few common scams used by fraudsters to gain access to your bank account. For a full list of scams, visit PlainsCapital Bank’s Common Fraud Scams page to learn more.

Create a Strong Password

Your password can serve as the first obstacle for fraudsters when it comes to protecting your bank account. Creating one that is strong and unique will make it harder for fraudsters to break in. Consider these tips when choosing a password.

  • It should be a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
  • Aim to make it at least 12 characters long. The longer, the stronger.
  • Try not to use personal information, such as a name, birthdate, address, or pet’s name.
  • Avoid common phrases that may be easy to guess.
  • Each of your online accounts should have its own unique password.
  • Change your passwords regularly.

Protect Your PIN

Your Personal Identification Number (PIN) is the code you enter to access your online banking through an ATM or a debit card transaction. You should never share your PIN with anyone. This includes family members, friends, or bank employees. Avoid writing it down, and make sure to choose a number combination that would not be easy to guess. The bank will never ask for your PIN as a way to verify your identity.

Consider Built-In Security for Banking Devices

Many people access their online banking through their phone or tablets—easy access for you, but also easy access for a fraudster. Built-in security options at your fingertips could add a layer of protection when it comes to protecting your bank account.

  • Device Encryption

Encryption changes your data into an unreadable format that can only be accessed with a code or password. By enabling this on your device, you can help protect sensitive information, including your bank account information, if your device were to be lost or stolen.

  • Put a Password on Your Device

This may seem obvious, but if you use a smart phone, you should be using a password to lock your screen when it isn’t in use. This prevents other people from gaining easy access to your device.

  • Remote Wiping

This feature allows you to erase data, remotely, if your device is lost or stolen.

  • Facial Recognition/Fingerprint Scanning

If your device offers facial recognition or fingerprint scanning as a form of access, consider using it. These physical forms of protection are difficult to copy or steal.

Be Cautious of Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks at places such as airports, coffee shops, or hotels pose a risk, especially if you’re accessing personal information like a bank account. These public networks are often unsecured, which means anyone on that network can possibly access your data. It’s better to access your online banking on a secure, private network. You may even consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) as added security.

Frequently Monitor Your Bank Account

Keeping a watchful eye on your bank activity will allow you to catch any suspicious transactions quickly. Make it a habit. Review any recurring payments to make sure these are services you still use and authorize. Notify your bank immediately if you see anything suspicious.

Being proactive can help lessen the chance of falling victim to a fraud scam, or worse, a compromised bank account. Keeping your money safe is as important to us as it is to you. PlainsCapital Bank’s Fraud Department provides educational resources for businesses and individuals to help detect and prevent fraud. For more information about our fraud prevention efforts, visit our fraud resources page.

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Travis Lee Ratcliff (Shelton Class of 2009) is director and editor of "Dynasty and Destiny," a film appearing in the Tribeca Film Festival.
Travis Lee Ratcliff and Brody Carmichael, both from Shelton's Class of 2009, are executive producers of the film “Dynasty & Destiny,” which will be showcased at the Tribeca Film Festival June 11-13. Travis serves as the film's director, screenwriter, and editor, while Brody is the cinematographer. The film will have its Dallas premiere at the Oak Cliff Film Festival on Sunday, June 23, at 3:45 p.m. at the Bishop Arts Theater Center. It tells the story of Kanesha Jackson, a third-generation barrel racing champion, who is training her 13-year-old daughter, Kortnee, to carry on the family tradition. “‘Dynasty and Destiny’ is a portrait of how traditions ripple through a family,” Ratcliff says. “My goal as a filmmaker has always been to present Texan stories that re-contextualize our western heritage and showcase the deep values, traditions and heritages that have made the state what it is today. Presenting this Texas-spun story to an audience of this scale feels like a realization of that vision.” Here’s an interview with Ratcliff, who graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design and has a production company, Movement House, in Austin.

When did you attend Shelton? 
I attended Shelton starting in the sixth grade. Brody and I both graduated from Shelton in 2009. Brody and I became friends working in the high school theater and film program. We both felt that the challenges of our Dyslexia, ADD, Dyscalculia and auditory processing disorders also contained secret strengths and gifts that were best revealed by our mentors in the arts. From our work in the theater department, we soon found an even deeper calling in the form of filmmaking. Telling stories visually became a way to communicate on a deeper level than through the limits of written or spoken language. 

What was your role in creating “Dynasty and Destiny”? 
I was the director and editor of the film. As the director, I helped develop the artistic vision for how to tell the story. My job is to find the theme and emotional core of the movie and develop a visual language with my collaborators that best expresses those ideas. With this film, I was fascinated with the way that tradition ripples through a family. The theme of the film, to me, was: "How does what was old become new again with each generation?" In order to express that, I collaborated with Brody as a cinematographer. As a cinematographer, Brody is responsible for helping me dream up the best way to design and execute my thematic and emotional vision for the film. Brody suggested that we use a combination of film and digital photography. Under his leadership, the film utilized a strategic combination of 16mm, 35mm, black and white and color techniques. These, over the arc of the film, express our deeper thematic idea by representing the older generation’s point of view (black and white, and film photography) becoming new again through the younger generation’s harnessing of it in their own way (digital and color photography). As an editor, I assembled the film in the editing suite and made sure that the rhythm/flow of the movie is working. I typically edit most of the work that I direct in order to facilitate our carefully crafted design. I am also a professional freelance editor, so it’s one of the skills I know best in filmmaking. 

What kind of response has the film received? 
The film has been the best received of any of our works so far. It premiered at the San Francisco International Film Festival, where it received the Golden Gate Award. The jury commented, “We found this touching, timely, and accessible story to be a true master class in documentary filmmaking.” The film has been presented at festivals across the country and will premiere next week at Tribeca. Tribeca is one of the most competitive festivals in the world and received around 8,000 short film submissions with around 19 short documentaries ultimately selected. We expect to continue to tour the film to festivals through the fall and winter before it will eventually premiere online.

What other films have you created?
Brody and I have a production company, Movement House, based in Austin. We have created commissioned profile documentaries featuring artists around the world and commercials and video content for brands that include Hershey’s, FritoLay, Shiner and Yuengling. Our best-known previous work is a short documentary, “In the Space Between Ages,” profiling a dyslexic sculptor that screened at the SXSW film festival and was widely seen online. 

What are you working on now? 
Our next project is an investigative short documentary that reveals the problematic use of forensic hypnosis by Texas law enforcement over the last 40 years, resulting in over a thousand wrongful convictions and a dozen individuals being sent to Texas Death Row. We tell this story through the specific case of Charles Don Flores, who was convicted for a crime he always maintained he never committed. The only evidence that was used to convict him was a single eyewitness testimony from an individual who always maintained that she did not see Charles at the scene of the crime, but changed her story after being hypnotized by investigators. The project is supported by a grant from the Austin Film Society and will premiere at film festivals next year. 

What are your memories of Shelton? 
I remember coming to Shelton after profoundly struggling with the public education system. By the time I reached the fifth grade in public schools, I was nearly ready to give up. Shelton was a place of profound healing for me from the very start. To learn that I was not defective, that I had learning differences and not disabilities, was a gift that changed my perspective on myself from the very beginning. Finding a calling in the arts at Shelton was then a space where I was able to rebuild my confidence and formulate a vision for my life that leaned on my strengths and hidden talents. The life I have now is entirely because of the skills, healing and relationships I received and developed while at Shelton. 

How did Shelton prepare you for what you are doing now? 
The training and mentorship we received in the theater and film program were essential for convincing ourselves and our parents that we could pursue creative careers in the arts. When I was at Shelton, the film festival brought a professor from Savannah College of Art and Design to attend our high school’s film festival. The relationship we built with that professor put us down a path toward pursuing higher education in the arts and ultimately finding the careers we have now. 

What's your advice to Shelton students? 
Listen to your passions. There will always be moments of profound struggle that we face, but as long as you never stop searching for the spaces where you feel seen, energized and healed, you will eventually stumble upon the place where you were always meant to be. Beneath every challenge is a unique way of seeing the world and a unique contribution that you will be able to make to it.

 

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SHELTON ALUMNUS COLIN FEEHERY QUALIFIED FOR FOUR EVENTS IN THE 2024 U.S. OLYMPIC SWIMMING TRIALS 

Colin Feehery (Shelton Class of 2019), who graduated from SMU in May 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physiology and Sport Management, is a member of SMU’s swim team and qualified for four events in  the 2024 U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials, which begin on Saturday, June 15-23 in Indianapolis. Colin qualified for the 100 and 200 breaststroke, the 200 freestyle and the 200 individual medley. 

What are your swimming accomplishments? 

While swimming at SMU,  I held four individual team records, competed in the 2021 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, the 2022, 2023 and 2024 NCAA championships, and competed in the finals in multiple events at the U.S. National Championships.  I already qualified and am looking forward to the Olympic Trials.

What will you be doing after graduation from SMU?

I’ll be working for the Jesuit Athletic Department and as an assistant swim coach coming up soon.

What’s your learning difference?

I have ADD inattentive type, Dysgraphia and Expressive Language Disorder.

How did Shelton prepare you for college?

Shelton prepared me for SMU by helping me think about different ways I could succeed. With learning differences, sometimes different adjustments have to be made to accomplish a goal.

What advice do you have for Shelton students?

Always remember that anything is possible. Before attending Shelton and SMU, I had no idea what I was capable of both in school and in athletics. Learn as much as you can about yourself and be willing to advocate for your own needs. Understanding both your strengths and weaknesses and being able to ask for help will unlock a potential you never knew you had.

What are your memories of Shelton?

The biggest thing I loved about Shelton was the class sizes. Teachers could always care about the individual person and have the time to help when asked. It was also fun to be able to get to know all of my graduating class and a lot of people from the classes above and below me. I enjoyed SMU for a lot of the same reasons. I could get to know a lot of people within my major and take a lot of the same classes with the same people. Teachers and advisors were also able to spend more time with the individual students and offer help as needed.

What’s a fun fact about you?

I enjoy studying history.  I also enjoy reading books about world history.

COLIN FEEHERY’S SMU School Swimming Records

200 breast I 1:52.06 I 2/3/23

400 free relay | 2:50.39 | 3/30/24

800 free relay | 6:14.35 | 3/27/2024

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Photo (Left to right): Dr. Theresa Williams; Superintendent Plano ISD, Bryan Martin; Lexus Plano Service Manager, Meghann Sciples; Elementary Teacher of the Year, Mitch Stobee; Secondary Teacher of the Year, Gabe Delgado; Lexus Plano Pre-owned Sales Manager, Nancy Humphrey; PISD Board of Trustees President 2021-2025

Park Place Lexus Plano recognized Plano Independent School District Teachers of the Year, Meghann Sciples and Mitch Stobee. Sciples was named Elementary Teacher of the Year and Stobee was recognized as Secondary Teacher of the Year for PISD.

The two Plano ISD teachers were offered their choice to drive a Lexus IS or NX for the 2024 summer, deluxe detail and tank of gas for the winner’s vehicle, two tickets to a Texas Rangers game with a parking pass and access to the Lexus Lounge that includes an “all you can eat” buffet and drinks of choice. The teachers also received four passes to the Dallas Arboretum, and other Park Place swag.

“We celebrate the teachers who commit their time, energy and resources to building the next generation of leaders,” said Chris Brunner, Park Place Lexus Plano General Manager. “We recognize the long hours our teachers work in their selfless drive to educate our children. Park Place Lexus has supported the Teachers of the Year program in Plano ISD for many years, and we applaud all the teachers for their passion and dedication to educate.” 

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and has been engaged in the community through its support of the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education. Park Place employs more than 1,400 members and operates nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth, Dallas, and Plano and the Park Place Auto Auction, round out the company’s offerings. Park Place was acquired in 2020 by Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Duluth, GA. For more information, visit parkplace.com. 

 

 

 

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Are you moving with kids? With the right strategies in place, you can minimize disruption and stress for both you and your children.

Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet challenging experience, especially when you have kids. The thought of uprooting your family and starting fresh in a new place can bring about a mix of emotions. However, with the right strategies in place, you can minimize disruption and stress for both you and your children. In this article, we will explore some effective tips to help you navigate the process of moving with kids.

1. Communicate and Involve Your Kids

One of the most important steps in minimizing disruption during a move is to communicate with your kids. Explain to them why you are moving and involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible. This will help them feel included and more prepared for the upcoming changes.

2. Plan Ahead

Planning is key when it comes to moving with kids. Create a detailed moving checklist and timeline to ensure that everything is organized and on track. Start packing well in advance, allowing your children to gradually adjust to the idea of moving. This will also give you ample time to sort through belongings and declutter, making the moving process smoother.

3. Maintain Routines

Children thrive on routine, so try to maintain their regular schedules as much as possible during the moving process. Stick to their usual meal times, bedtime routines, and extracurricular activities. This will provide them with a sense of stability and help minimize any anxiety or stress they may be feeling.

4. Pack an Essentials Box

Pack a separate essentials box for each child, containing their favorite toys, books, and comfort items. This will ensure that they have familiar things to keep them occupied and provide a sense of comfort during the transition. Additionally, include some snacks, toiletries, and a change of clothes to have readily available upon arrival at your new home.

5. Explore the New Neighborhood

Before the move, take the time to explore your new neighborhood with your kids. Visit local parks, schools, and recreational areas to help them become familiar with their new surroundings. This will help alleviate any anxiety they may have about the unknown and make them feel more at ease in their new environment.

6. Enlist Help

Moving with kids can be overwhelming, so don't hesitate to ask for help. Whether it's from family, friends, or professional movers, having an extra set of hands can make a significant difference. Delegate tasks and responsibilities to lighten the load and ensure a smoother transition for everyone involved.

7. Stay Positive and Patient

Lastly, remember to stay positive and patient throughout the moving process. Children are perceptive and can pick up on your emotions. By maintaining a positive attitude and demonstrating patience, you can help ease their worries and make the experience more enjoyable for the whole family.

Moving with kids doesn't have to be a stressful ordeal. By implementing these strategies, you can minimize disruption and create a smoother transition for your family. Remember, open communication, careful planning, and maintaining routines are key to ensuring a successful move. Embrace this new chapter in your lives and make it an exciting adventure for your children.

Premier Designs & Moving specializes in moving services, art installation, and packing and organization. For the past 5 years, Premier Designs & Moving have been securing your valuables and moving them with ease, handling your objects with care, and packing and unpacking your assets so you can focus on the more important aspects of moving. All our packing services are designed to make your move efficient and streamlined. We’re not just any residential moving service, we pride ourselves on providing you with the service you expect from our name. For the best home movers in Dallas, TX, call Premier Designs & Moving at (469) 859-5454.

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Did you know that your shingle choice matters? The type of shingles you choose can greatly impact the overall look, durability, and energy efficiency of your roof.

When it comes to choosing the right shingles for your house, there are several factors to consider. The type of shingles you choose can greatly impact the overall look, durability, and energy efficiency of your roof. In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect shingles for your home.

1. Consider the Climate

The climate in your area plays a significant role in determining the type of shingles that will work best for your house. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Asphalt Shingles: These are the most common type of shingles and are suitable for a wide range of climates. They are affordable, durable, and come in a variety of colors and styles.

  • Wood Shingles: Wood shingles offer a natural and rustic look to your roof. They are best suited for moderate climates and require regular maintenance to prevent rot and decay.

  • Metal Shingles: Metal shingles are highly durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. They are a great option for areas prone to heavy rain, strong winds, or hailstorms.

  • Slate Shingles: Slate shingles are known for their elegance and longevity. They are fire-resistant, low-maintenance, and can last for over a century. However, they are more expensive than other types of shingles.

  • Tile Shingles: Tile shingles, often made of clay or concrete, are popular in warmer climates. They provide excellent insulation and can withstand high temperatures. However, they are heavy and may require additional structural support.

2. Evaluate the Aesthetic Appeal

Shingles come in a variety of styles, colors, and textures, allowing you to customize the look of your roof. Consider the architectural style of your house and choose shingles that complement its design. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Three-Tab Shingles: These are the most basic and economical option. They have a flat, uniform appearance and are available in a range of colors.

  • Architectural Shingles: Also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, these offer a more textured and layered look. They mimic the appearance of wood or slate shingles and provide added depth and visual interest.

  • Designer Shingles: Designer shingles are premium shingles that offer unique patterns, colors, and shapes. They can give your roof a distinctive and high-end look.

3. Assess the Durability

Durability is a crucial factor when selecting shingles for your house. You want shingles that can withstand the test of time and protect your home from the elements. Here are a few considerations:

  • Impact Resistance: Some shingles are designed to be impact-resistant, making them less likely to crack or break during hailstorms or falling debris.

  • Wind Resistance: Look for shingles that are rated for high wind speeds. These shingles have enhanced adhesion and are less likely to be blown off during storms.

  • Fire Resistance: If you live in an area prone to wildfires, consider shingles that are rated for fire resistance. These shingles are made from materials that are less likely to catch fire.

4. Think About Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important for homeowners. By choosing energy-efficient shingles, you can reduce your carbon footprint and save on energy costs. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Cool Shingles: Cool shingles are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, keeping your home cooler in the summer. They can help reduce the strain on your air conditioning system.

  • Solar Shingles: Solar shingles are a sustainable option that harness the power of the sun to generate electricity for your home. They can help offset your energy consumption and lower your utility bills.

5. Consult with a Professional

Choosing the right shingles for your house can be a complex task. It is always a good idea to consult with a professional roofing contractor who can provide expert advice based on your specific needs and budget. They can help you navigate through the various options available and ensure that you make an informed decision.

Selecting the right shingles for your house is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Consider the climate, aesthetic appeal, durability, energy efficiency, and seek professional guidance. By doing so, you can ensure that your roof not only looks great but also provides the protection and longevity your home deserves.

Tucker Roofing Systems is a leading provider of high-quality roofing solutions dedicated to excellence in craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. With over 60 years of experience, we specialize in installations, repairs, and replacements, serving both residential and commercial clients. Contact us at (972) 833-2271 to schedule a consultation.

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Dallas, TX—June 10, 2024 — Dallas United Crew (DUC) proudly brought 44 athletes to the 2024 USRowing Youth National Championship, showcasing their hard work, dedication, and exceptional talent on a national stage. All athletes qualified for this championship from our regional qualifier in early May.

The team secured a notable 5th place finish in the Women's 4- event, featuring a stellar performance by Olivia Till (Alabama '28), Elle Noonan, Estelle Stout (Wisconsin '28), and Paisley Rodriguez (University of Texas '28). 

 

"We gave it our all, and to come away with a top 5 finish is a testament to the hard work and dedication of every member of Dallas United Crew, we can all share in each others success, It furthers the legacy that we are building here at Dallas United Crew" said Coach Ben Andrews.

Olivia Till, a member of the Women's 4- team, shared her excitement, "Rowing with these girls has been an incredible experience. We pushed each other every day, and it paid off at Nationals."

Elle Noonan echoed these sentiments, adding, "The support from our coaches, families, and the entire Dallas United community has been phenomenal. We couldn't have achieved this without them."

DUC was represented by the following eight crews:

Women's U17 8+: 10th
1. Yaya Lagisetty 2. Lauren Livingston 3. Hedda Beck 4.London Ezell 5. Olivia Betancourt 6. Thalia Makris 7. Julia Blewett 8. Diana Farnworth cox: Mimi Tafel

Women's Youth 4+: 24th
1. Kenna Rosenthal 2. Lisette Viguerie 3. Lauren O'Grady 4. Victoria Bell cox: Maya Malik

1/4

Women's Youth 4-: 5th
1. Olivia Till, 2. Elle Noonan, 3. Estelle Stout, 4. Paisley Rodriguez

Women's Youth 2- A: 18th

1. Cordelia Bowden, 2. Ella Spillman

Women's Youth 2- B: 24th

1. Hannah Birdwell, 2. Samantha Rietbroek

Men's Youth 8+: 24th

1.Matthew Slear 2. Andrew Moyer 3. Daniel Sneed 4. Cole Farley 5. Jack Davis 6. John Bunge 7. Raul Gupta 8. Jack Halverson Cox: Ryan Brown

Men's Youth 2nd 8+: 14th

1.Coleman Hayes 2. Alex Musico 3. Josh Lando 4. Elijah Townsend 5. Colin Salm 6. Owen Frazer 7. Luke Blankenship 8. Julian Belestri Cox: Pavi Paila

Men's Youth 4-: 30th
1.Nathan Wivagg 2. Theo Statiras 3. Jacob Ronk 4. Louis Hixon

Demonstrating Exceptional Teamwork and Sportsmanship

Throughout the championship, Dallas United Crew demonstrated not only their athletic prowess but also their exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship. Their camaraderie and mutual respect earned admiration from competitors and officials alike, solidifying DUC's reputation as a formidable club from the Central Region .

Coach Andrews emphasized the importance of teamwork in their success, "Rowing is a team sport, and these athletes understand that. They support each other on and off the water, and it showed in their performance, even if our team members are not out here with us they know their hard work has contributed to our speed on display."

The DUC teams also displayed exceptional sportsmanship, congratulating and cheering on their fellow competitors throughout the competition. This spirit of camaraderie was especially evident during the final races, where Dallas United Crew athletes could be seen high-fiving and hugging their teammates after crossing the finish line.

Want to Join the Team?

Looking ahead, Dallas United Crew has ambitious plans to build on their success. The team will continue rigorous training and development as they prepare for the upcoming Summer National Championship in Oklahoma City. In addition, they plan to expand their recruitment efforts to attract more local talent and grow the team further.

Dallas United Crew is offering 4 day Learn to Row Camps to try rowing out! No prior experience is necessary. Visit https://www.dallasunitedcrew.org/ for more information.

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Dallas Arboretum's Pride in Bloom Sabina Carr, Gary Sanchez

DALLAS, Texas, June 12, 2024 – The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden kicked off the third annual Pride in Bloom weekend-long event on June 8. The celebration, presented by Polestar Grapevine, highlighted local LGBTQ+ artisans, entertainers, chefs, and small businesses.

The festivities began Saturday morning with a welcome reception held in the DeGolyer House. Sabina Carr, Dallas Arboretum president and CEO, David Sassano, Pride in Bloom chair and Dallas Arboretum board member, Gary Sanchez, director of public affairs at VisitDallas, and Seth Levin, VP, marketing at Polestar Grapevine all shared remarks, welcoming everyone and thanking them for their support.

Throughout the day, events included cooking demonstrations, musical performances, and a curated vendor market featuring LGBTQ+ artisans. Polestar Grapevine, the presenting sponsor, also brought out an electric car guests could decorate and share what pride means to them. Pride in Bloom kicks off Summer at the Arboretum: Endless Summer featuring 150 hammocks for people to relax in at the Pecan Grove. 

A special thanks to the 2024 Pride in Bloom Sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor: Polestar Grapevine
Bronze: Apogee Supply, LLC, Apex Fence and Iron, McDonald’s of North Texas
Friend: Carole Braden, The Vennerberg Boys, IRRI TECH, LLC, John C. Weber Real Estate Group, BDO, Priority Trees and Shrubs
Supporting: Cotton Mendenhall, Realtor, Ebby, North Texas LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Jim Pitts, The Nan Faith Arnold Company, SHM Architects, Land Systems, Inc., Tenet, David Sassano and Don Tapani, MoneyGram International
Patron: Leslie Garner & Chris LaBove, Classic Chassis Car Club, Fossil, Mesa Design Group, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
Media Sponsors: NBC 5/ Telemundo 39

Photos courtesy of Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

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Karl Chiao by Danny Campbell Photography_Dallas Hi Karl Chiao, Executive Director, Dallas Historical Society

Texas History Professional Development Conference

Monday, June 24th and Tuesday, June 25th 
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

 

Join the Dallas Historical Society for this free, two-day Professional Development Conference, presented in partnership with the Harry W. Bass Jr. Foundation.    Learn from leading Texas historians and exemplary classroom instructors. Improve your content knowledge and sharpen your teaching skills at the beautiful and historic Hall of State. Attendees will earn 12 CPE Credits.

Speakers Include: Dr. Stephen L. Hardin, The Runaway Scrape; Dr. Sam W. Haynes, Richard Fields & The Texas Cherokees; Kolby Lanham, Alamo Myths & Misconceptions; Robert Edison, African Americans in Texas History; David Lee & Kaitlyn Price, DHS History and Collection; Allison Yates, Texas History Lessons; Dr. Erika Arredondo-Haskins, Texas Women; Dr. Donald S. Frazier, E Pluribus Texas Project.

Free parking. To register, for scheduling, learn more online, see the flyer here: https://www.dallashistory.org/education/for-teachers/

If you have any questions, please email education@dallashistory.org  to contact the DHS Director of Education or call 214-421-4500.

 

The Dallas Historical Society: Whether someone is new to Dallas or a native Texan, the Dallas Historical Society offers programs and exhibits that educate and inform visitors about their home city and reveal insights and little-known facts that one might be unable to attain from history books alone, especially with the museum’s newest permanent exhibit, the interactive Texas Liberty Forever: The Battle of the Alamo diorama by Thomas Feely.

 

Ongoing events include Brown Bag Lectures, An Evening With programs, and Pour Yourself Into History happy hours. Join in discovering more about Dallas and take part in one or more of these wonderful programs. Visit the website for more information at www.dallashistory.org

 

The Dallas Historical Society Celebrated Its Centennial Year In 2022

 

The stories of Dallas are shared each day at the Dallas Historical Society through the three million items that comprise our archives and artifact collections. Established in 1922, the Dallas Historical Society collects, preserves, and exhibits the unique heritage of Dallas and Texas to educate and inspire future generations.

 

Housed at the Hall of State in Fair Park since 1938, DHS presents these collections through education programs, exhibitions, tours, access to research materials and workshops. 

 

Among the three million historical artifacts at DHS are such treasures as Sam Houston’s handwritten account of the Battle of San Jacinto, the only known original Juneteenth document, James Fannin’s watch, and Santa Anna’s spurs. The DHS collection houses over 10,000 bound volumes and receives more than 1,500 research requests annually.

 

Each year, the Dallas Historical Society is visited by over 160,000 people and serves more than 20,000 students through guided tours and educational programming at the Hall of State, as well as outreach programs at schools. Visit the website for more information at www.dallashistory.org

 

Photo by Danny Campbell. 

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Nexus Recovery Center announced a $50,000 grant from Wellpoint Foundation for its residential substance use disorder (SUD) treatment program. This generous gift will help Nexus continue to provide Pregnant & Parenting Women with Children (PPWC) clients with behavioral and mental health services, including one-on-one counseling, educational sessions, and group sessions. 

The grant will directly support Nexus’ mission to serve as a community of hope and recovery for all women and their families who strive to live healthy, resilient lives. Using an evidence-based, gender-specific, and trauma-informed continuum of care approach to treatment, Nexus’ PPWC program helps to bridge gender and racial equity gaps that limit access to needed behavioral and mental health services for women and families affected by substance use disorders, regardless of clients’ ability to pay.

Wellpoint helps improve health care access and quality for nearly 750,000 Texans who participate in the state’s Medicaid programs. Wellpoint Texas President, Greg Thompson, said supporting Nexus Recovery Center was a natural fit for the foundation. 

“We are proud to partner with Nexus Recovery Center because they, like Wellpoint, are taking an individualized approach to address multiple aspects of health and wellness for our most vulnerable populations,” Thompson said. “As one out of just seven treatment centers in Texas that allows women to admit with their children, Nexus is transforming the lives of families impacted by substance use disorders.”

Serving more than 200 pregnant and parenting women each year, the Pregnant & Parenting Women with Children program provides each client with an individualized and comprehensive treatment plan that includes a full range of parenting education classes, postpartum support, and family education sessions. Together with a team of licensed counselors, a child and family education specialist, a case manager, and recovery coaches, clients maintain a full schedule of activities designed to help them along their individualized pathways to recovery.

“While I worked with Nexus staff on reducing my cravings for alcohol, my son Zayden received play therapy at the Nexus Child Development Center,” says Mackenzie Blacketer, former PPWC client. “I received counseling for my past traumas as well as tools I could use to be a better mom to Zayden, strengthening our bond as mother and son.”

“Wellpoint Foundation’s support of Nexus will help us empower women like Mackenzie and preserve families throughout Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and across the state of Texas,” said Heather E. Ormand, Chief Executive Officer of Nexus Recovery Center. “We are thankful to have Wellpoint Foundation as a partner.”