Staff & Reader Submitted

BOOK REVIEW: CALL IN FOR MURDER (NEON DESERT, #1) by Tammy Barker

KAREN SIDDALL — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 14:35:55 Z

Call In For Murder

Neon Desert, #1

Tammy Barker

Intriguing start to this Las Vegas-set cozy mystery series.

Call In For Murder is the first book in Tammy Barkers new Neon Desert cozy mystery series featuring radio talk show host Ashley Compton, Miss LARE (love and relationship expert) to her listeners, who offers blunt, straightforward opinions on their relationship and personal communication matters. When one of her listeners is murdered soon after calling in for advice about her cheating spouse, Ashley is overcome with worry and guilt that her advice to the woman may have gotten her killed. She ignores her usually practical inclinations and decides to investigate on her own.

Main character Ashley Compton, while a strong and opinionated voice of reason on the air, is an emotionally fragile but healing soul in real life. The advice she offers call-in listeners dealing with an unfaithful partner is informed by her own personal experience. She relocated from LA to Las Vegas to leave the source of her own betrayal behind and met her new best friend, Nathan Reader, an older gay man whose connections at the local radio station helped land her the new job and alias as Ms. LARE. Nathan is a fun sidekick but a steadfast voice of reason as he tries to be supportive and keep Ashley out of major trouble.

The plot moves quickly, with the death occurring early in the book and Ashleys cheating former fiancé unexpectedly tracking her down, with reconciliation in mind. The adversarial detective in charge of the murder investigation is as stubborn and relentless as she is, but hunky and perfect for a future love interest. I enjoyed the Las Vegas setting, with all of the mentions of landmarks and history. While the dialogue was predictable at times, there were some good misdirection and red herrings to keep readers guessing all the way to the final reveal, which established the foundation for a long-term conflict that can continue into future books in the series.

I recommend CALL IN FOR MURDER to cozy mystery fans, especially those who enjoy a Las Vegas setting and engaging characters.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours.

Assistance League of Coppell January Meeting

Paula Rhea — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 19:17:46 Z

Join us on Thursday January 16th to learn about Assistance League of Coppell (ALC). Our guest speaker is Laci McKinney who serves as the Organizational Effectiveness and Innovation Specialist for the City of Coppells Employee Experience Department. Location: Cozby Library and Community Commons at 177 N. Heartz Road, Coppell TX. Social time is at 11:00 am with the meeting from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. Dutch treat lunch to follow the meeting. Interested guests are welcome.

Interested in knowing more about Assistance League of Coppell? We are an all-volunteer, 501(c) (3) non-profit organization transforming the lives of children and adults in the Coppell area for over 25 years, via a wide range of philanthropic programs. Our chapter consists of both adult members and an Assisteens auxiliary that provides intermediate and high school students with community service opportunities. Assistance League of Coppells youth programs help economically disadvantaged children thrive at school, highlight the consequences of drug and alcohol abuse, and reward service-focused youth. Our senior citizen program improves mental function and fellowship at assisted living centers. Funds we raise benefit our local community.

Falak Art Studio - Exciting Art Workshops & Contests Await in our December Newsletter!

nisha Shah — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 12:00:00 Z

Dear Readers,

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

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

Lets keep inspiring creativity together!

Warm regards,

Falak Art Studio - Exciting Art Workshops & Contests Await in our December Newsletter!

nisha Shah — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 12:00:00 Z

Dear Readers,

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

Lets keep inspiring creativity together!

Warm regards,

Falak Art Studio - Exciting Art Workshops & Contests Await in our December Newsletter!

nisha Shah — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 12:00:00 Z

Dear Readers,

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

Lets keep inspiring creativity together!

Warm regards,

Texas Woman's University taps higher ed veteran to lead Houston campus

Kathy Beazley — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 14:57:18 Z

Texas Womans University has named Monica G. Williams, PhD, a seasoned higher education leader with a strong background in partnerships and fundraising, as the inaugural Houston campus president. She begins her role on Aug. 26.

Williams served nine years as foundation president and vice president of advancement at the University of North Texas at Dallas and has also held leadership positions in fundraising at the United States Fund for UNICEF, Houston Works USA, Rice University, Prairie View A&M University and Texas Southern University.

She played a key role in helping increase UNT Dallas enrollment by 60% during her service at that institution and was a lead architect for the universitys values-based strategic plan.

Additionally, Williams taught English in the Houston Independent School District, served as the inaugural director of Houstons Sylvan at Work/Sylvan Learning Systems Office and worked at Neighborhood Centers Inc. leading its community-based programming.

Williams has an extraordinary record of achievement in leading philanthropic efforts, securing grants and stewarding gifts, and maintains close relationships with Houston stakeholders that she formed in the business, industry, nonprofit and civic sectors.

Dr. Williams is a born leader, with strong connections in Houston, and a deep understanding of the Houston culture and workforce needs, which on their own would make her an exceptional choice as our first president for the Houston campus, Texas Womans Chancellor Carine Feyten said. But it is her experience that sets her in high esteem with our campus for what we need right now, especially her experience of working with limited resources to build and grow within the constraints of our state-funded higher education ecosystem.

As president, Williams will provide strategic leadership for the campus, located in the Texas Medical Center, which encompasses more than 60 medical institutions. It is the largest medical center and life science destination in the world. She will work with students, faculty, staff and key stakeholders including alumni, community members, business and industry leaders, legislators and policymakers to ensure Texas Womans is a key contributor to the higher education landscape in Houston.

Texas Womans has a distinct role in producing outstanding professionals in health care and business for the Houston region, and I am honored to serve as the inaugural president of the Houston campus, Williams said. I look forward to working with the university community and building on a legacy of excellence by producing more talented professionals who will make our community and the state of Texas stronger.

The state Legislature established Texas Womans University System in 2021 as its seventh university system, enabling its Houston and Dallas campuses to transform, grow and continue serving the state and its communities as the nations only system with a woman-focused mission. The system made it a top priority to install leadership at both campuses. Monica Christopher became the Dallas campuss first president in February of this year.

In addition to her lengthy record of fundraising and establishing partnerships, Williams served as an adjunct faculty member at UNT Dallas and at Texas Southern. Williams earned a bachelors degree in Journalism/English and a masters degree in communications at Texas Southern and a PhD in educational leadership at Prairie View A&M.

About TWU Houston

The TWU Institute of Health Sciences ? Houston Center is located in the heart of the largest medical center in the world, the Texas Medical Center, and offers advanced degrees in several health science programs. TWU Houston is one of three campuses of Texas Womans University in Denton, the largest public university in the nation with a woman focus, and has had a presence in Houston since 1960.

With a primary focus on advanced degrees, TWU Houston houses six schools and programs, including the Nelda C. Stark College of Nursing, the Dr. Sophie Lin Rydin School of Occupational Therapy, School of Physical Therapy, the nutrition and food sciences, health care administration and executive business programs.

DEVO's Gerald Casale to receive Ernie Kovacs Award from Dallas VideoFest on Sept. 29

Stephanie Patrick — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 14:40:54 Z

Weekend festivities include a screening of Chris Smiths Documentary Film DEVO

Dallas VideoFest is proud to present the Ernie Kovacs Award to musician, artist, and music video director Gerald Casale, best known for his work in DEVO, at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29, at the Texas Theatre (231 W. Jefferson Blvd. Oak Cliff/Dallas). A VIP meet-and-greet reception with Gerald Casale will take place upstairs at the Texas Theatre before the award ceremony, while the event and film screening will be downstairs. The DEVO documentary (2024), which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January this year, will play the night before, Saturday, Sept. 28.

To purchase tickets, go to https://kovacs.eventive.org.

Casale will receive the award from Bart Weiss, founder and artistic director. Joshua Mills, son of Kovacs' wife Edie Adams and the author of new book "Ernie in Kovacsland," will attend.

The award has been a key component of the Dallas VideoFest since the festival began in 1987. Kovacs was an American comedian, writer and actor known for a visually experimental and often spontaneous style that influenced many television comedy programs. He died in 1962.

As a primary force behind DEVO's creative vision, Jerry Casale is responsible for designing the band's visually striking concert stage shows and Dadaist costumes, including their signature red "Energy Dome" hats.

Casale's innovative approach to music videos and short films (starting in 1973) led him to direct nearly 100 music videos for notable bands such as Rush, Silverchair, and The Cars. Casale also has the distinction of directing both the first Foo Fighters video and the final video for Soundgarden.

It became clear Casale deserved the Ernie Kovacs Award when Mills found this Tumblr link: https://grossnational.tumblr.com/post/741964449382088704.

The link contains this quote:

Gerald Casale from DEVO has said, I dont think DEVO exists without the Nairobi Trio, referring to the recurring Ernie Kovacs sketch that featured a trio of (quite famous) performers in gorilla masks, trench coats and white gloves, attempting to play music as the sketch goes off the rails.

It completely blew my mind learning that Gerald Casale and DEVO were not only fans of Ernie Kovacs but were influenced by him as well, Mills said. Clearly, we are all DEVO.

I remember a stern nun telling me I had reached the age of reason' when I turned 7. Luckily, it was also the year I first watched the Ernie Kovacs Show with my parents huddled close to our black and white TV," Casale stated after learning he would receive the award. "That was the best antidote to reason a boy could hope for. I was hooked. I watched, smiling and laughing, as Kovacs and his cohorts executed a Smorgasbord of absurdist comedy, combining high and low culture seamlessly to innovative, comedic ends. I can honestly say it inspired my visual aesthetic and set me on a satiric creative path sustained for a lifetime."

Weiss on the importance of Ernie Kovacs

The very first program of our festival in 1987 showcased Edie Adams (Ernies widow) expounding on the work of Ernie Kovacs. Ernies innovative spirit has been with us these 37 years. The Kovacs Award became the perfect way to honor those who changed how we look at TV/Video much like Kovacs did.

Just as Ernie Kovacs set the aesthetic and for the template for late night and most TV comedy, Jerry Casales iconic music videos set the paradigm for how a band could define their image and tell their story through music video.

In 1980, new wave band DEVO scored a hit with "Whip It" and gained mainstream success with their message of societal "de-evolution," formed in response to the 1970 Kent State shootings.

The new documentary traces the band's music, its videos, its roots in the embers of the counterculture, its freak success, and its big message, which remains prophetic and often misunderstood.

About Casale

Casale is a Grammy-nominated and multi-award-winning composer, singer, musician, and music video director. He is the co-founder of DEVO and the architect of the bands most iconic hit songs, such as 'Whip It,' 'Freedom of Choice,' and 'Beautiful World.'

At age 76, Casale continues to push the boundaries of music and art with his latest projects, including a trio of new music videos/records since 2021 and an upcoming full-length album titled 'Wetiko,' which he is producing with Oingo Boingo alumni Steve Bartek and drummer Josh Freese of The Foo Fighters.

Details: GeraldVCasale.com

About the Ernie Kovacs Award

The Ernie Kovacs Award recognizes the careers and talents of some of televisions greatest visionaries. Kovacs' work in the 1950s and early 1960s summed up the spirit of innovation and the development of the language of television as art.

The Dallas VideoFest and the Video Association of Dallas announced the first Ernie Kovacs Award at the 1997 festival. Comedian Joel Hodgson of "Mystery Science 3000" was the first recipient and subsequent honorees have included - last recipient in 2022 - Al Franken; Terry Gilliam and John Cleese, both of "Monty Python;" Robert Smigel, writer/performer of "Saturday Night Live" and "Late Night with Conan OBrien;" Paul "Pee-wee Herman" Reubens; Martin Mull; Mike Judge; George Schlatter, creator of "Rowan & Martins Laugh-In;" Harry Shearer, "This is Spinal Tap" and "The Simpsons;" Michael Nesmith; Dave Foley and Kevin McDonald of "The Kids in the Hall, in 2017; and Amy Sedaris, the first woman to receive the Ernie Kovacs Award in 2018.

Actress Edie Adams (http://edieadams.com/), Kovacs widow, came to Dallas to host the awards program annually until her death in 2008. Today, Edie's son, Joshua Mills, runs Ediad Productions, the video and audio archive of both Ernie Kovacs and Edie Adams. As the official archivist for the Ernie Kovacs/Edie Adams (Ediad) Collection, Ben Model curated the Ernie Kovacs Collection DVD box sets for Shout! Factory, as well as the box set of "Here's Edie" shows for MVD.

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center's Emergency Department Wins National Award

Angel Biasatti — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 06:00:00 Z

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center Emergency Department was among 94 nationwide and only three in Dallas-Fort Worth to receive the 2024 Lantern Award, an accolade granted by the Emergency Nurses Association. The Methodist Mansfield Medical Center staff demonstrated excellence in leadership, practice, education, advocacy and research according to the nurses association, and the award serves as a visible symbol of their commitment to quality, safety and a healthy work environment.

As part of the application, Methodist Mansfield emergency department was encouraged to share stories that highlight their commitment to patient care, the Methodist Mansfield staff helped a young mother whose 12-year-old son knew just what to do when she suffered a stroke at home.

"I am extremely proud of our emergency department for being selected for this award," said Methodist Mansfield Medical Center President Juan Fresquez, Jr. "They demonstrate outstanding leadership, innovation and the utmost dedication in providing compassionate, quality healthcare to the communities we serve every day."

BioNTX Is Hosting a "Building a Robust Life Science Ecosystem" Panel on July 17

Culver Public Relations — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 16:03:49 Z

BioNTX is hosting a panel event on Wednesday, July 17 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Texas Research Center to discuss the life science ecosystem in North Texas. The address is 5400 Legacy Dr, Plano, TX 75024.

The event is called, Building a Robust Life Science Ecosystem: The Bridge Between Research, Clinical Trials & Manufacturing. The panel features industry experts who will discuss how research, clinical trials, and manufacturing can come together to create a robust life science ecosystem in North Texas. It will also provide an opportunity to learn about the Texas Research Quarter project and tour the property.

The panel will be moderated by Eric Danielson, Managing Director, Real Estate NexPoint and include panelists:

David Gerger, MD, Associate Vice Chancellor, UT Southwestern
Alex Baldridge, Senior Director, Business Development Caidya
Brian OMara, Vice President, Process Sciences Scorpius
Khandan Baradaran, PhD, Senior Vice President, Regulatory & Quality Nanoscope Therapeutics

Registration is available here.

BioNTX is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering a robust bioscience and healthcare innovation community in North Texas.

Frontiers of Flight Museum Celebrates the 55th Anniversary of National Moon Day

Tiffaney D. Hunter — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 19:00:00 Z

The Museums 16^th Annual Moon Day Event to feature New Space Exhibition, Commissioned Apollo Program Artwork, Astronaut Talks and More

In celebration of the 55^th Anniversary of National Moon Day, the Frontiers of Flight Museum will host its 16^th Annual Moon Day event. Taking place Saturday, July 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this enriching and engaging day of space exploration will feature interactive activities, one-of-a-kind exhibits and space-themed presentations for the entire community to enjoy. Tickets for this highly anticipated signature event are on sale now on the Frontiers of Flight Museums website.

In 1969, history was made, and the world was changed when Apollo 11 became the first spaceflight to land humans on the Moon. This monumental milestone, known as National Moon Day, marked the beginning of endless possibilities for space exploration and has been commemorated by the Frontiers of Flight Museum since 2009.

We are extremely proud to host our annual event to celebrate the past, present and future of space exploration, while inspiring the next generation of space explorers, said Abigail Erickson-Torres, CEO of the Frontiers of Flight Museum. It is the perfect day to explore the history and progress of space and aviation, in a fun and welcoming environment.

For the first time ever, attendees of the 16^th Annual Moon Day event will have an exclusive opportunity to view a unique exhibition called Legends of Space Innovation: David Clark Company, which will feature two rare prototype space suits and headsets designed and manufactured by the David Clark Company based in Worcester, MA. On loan from the David Clark Company, the pieces are the newest addition to the Frontiers of Flight Museum and will be available for viewing through December 31, 2024. Additionally, art and exploration will unite with the premier of a commissioned life-sized painting of 10 Apollo astronauts by Polish-born Maciej Maga, who has lived in Dallas nearly 20 years. The painting will be available for viewing through October 31, 2024.

This years event will also feature a special keynote presentation from Colonel Gregory H. Johnson, retired US Air Force officer, aerospace engineer, and NASA astronaut. Hell share colorful and inspiring stories from his aviation and spaceflight experiences including his time as pilot of the STS-123 Endeavour. The STS-123 Endeavour crew performed a record five spacewalks and the mission was accomplished in 250 orbits of the Earth, traveling more than 6 million miles in 15 days, 18 hours and 10 minutes.

The keynote presentation is a highlight for our guests as we have hosted several astronauts throughout the years, said Rosalie Wade, Director of Education for the Frontiers of Flight Museum. It is truly an honor to offer our visitors new one-of-a-kind components to our signature Moon Day event and to have Colonel Johnson share insight and wisdom from his astounding career.

The Frontiers of Flight Museums 16^th Annual Moon Day is a public event that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and space-themed activities and displays for the young, young at heart and avid aviation aficionados. Additional highlights include a book signing by Jim Keyes, author of Education is Freedom: The Future is in Your Hands, as well as over 20 exhibitors, seven speakers, autograph signings, educational hands-on activities, food trucks and music. Guest speakers will also discuss a variety of topics ranging from Pioneering the Path to the Moon to The Voyager Spacecraft: Humanity's Farthest Journey.

While enjoying the many Moon Day festivities, families are encouraged to explore the rich diversity of aviation and flight history throughout the two-level 100,000-square-foot space. The Frontiers of the Flight Museum is home to more than 40 aircraft and space vehicles including the Apollo 7 command module, 16 galleries and displays and more than 35,000 historic artifacts. Among the many exhilarating exhibitions are Dreamers and Early Flyers, Lighter than Air, Modern Air Power and Golden Age. In addition, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts can earn badges and K-12 Educators can earn CPE credits while attending the Moon Day event.

Tickets to attend the 16^th Annual Moon Day event are $15 for children and $20 for adults and are free for children two years of age and younger. To purchase tickets, learn more and view the complete schedule of activities, please visit www.flightmuseum.com/events/moonday.

The Frontiers of Flights 16^th Annual Moon Day event is made possible through gracious sponsors: The Dan and Gena Hamilton Family Fund and PlainsCapital Bank.

About Frontiers of Flight Museum

The Frontiers of Flight Museum has over 40 space vehicles and aircraft from a replica of the Wright Flyer to the one-of-a-kind Flying Pancake, the Apollo 7 spacecraft, 16 galleries, and over 35,000 historical artifacts on display. The Museum is conveniently located just north of downtown at 6911 Lemmon Avenue on the southeast side of Dallas Love Field Airport, north of Mockingbird Lane. Housed in a modern 100,000-square-foot facility, the Museum provides a focal point to explore the history and progress of aviation and spaceflight as the human race continues to pursue going higher, faster, and farther.

Hours of operation: Monday Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Regular Admission: Adults $15; Seniors (65+) $10; Youths/Students (3-17) $10 and children 2 and younger are free. For more information, including closings for private events and major holidays, visit www.flightmuseum.com or call 214-350-3600.

End of Season Clearance Open House - 40% OFF Flat at Falak Collections by Nisha Shah

Falak Collections — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:24:12 Z

Falak Collections by Nisha Shah - End of Season Clearance Open House!

Join us this Sunday, June 23rd, from 10 AM to 6 PM for an exclusive shopping event at 716 Castle Creek Drive, Coppell, TX.

Enjoy 40% OFF on all tag prices OR Buy 1 Get 1 FREE!

Designer wear indo-westerns, an exclusive collection of sarees, lehengas, blouses, dresses, etc...

Don't miss out on these unbeatable deals on our stunning collections.

See you there!
972 352 1279

#FalakCollections #ClearanceSale #OpenHouse #CoppellShopping
Falak Collection

End of Season Clearance Open House - 40% OFF Flat at Falak Collections by Nisha Shah

Falak Collections — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:24:12 Z

Falak Collections by Nisha Shah - End of Season Clearance Open House!

Join us this Sunday, June 23rd, from 10 AM to 6 PM for an exclusive shopping event at 716 Castle Creek Drive, Coppell, TX.

Enjoy 40% OFF on all tag prices OR Buy 1 Get 1 FREE!

Designer wear indo-westerns, an exclusive collection of sarees, lehengas, blouses, dresses, etc...

Don't miss out on these unbeatable deals on our stunning collections.

See you there!
972 352 1279

#FalakCollections #ClearanceSale #OpenHouse #CoppellShopping
Falak Collection

End of Season Clearance Open House - 40% OFF Flat at Falak Collections by Nisha Shah

Falak Collections — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:24:12 Z

Falak Collections by Nisha Shah - End of Season Clearance Open House!

Join us this Sunday, June 23rd, from 10 AM to 6 PM for an exclusive shopping event at 716 Castle Creek Drive, Coppell, TX.

Enjoy 40% OFF on all tag prices OR Buy 1 Get 1 FREE!

Designer wear indo-westerns, an exclusive collection of sarees, lehengas, blouses, dresses, etc...

Don't miss out on these unbeatable deals on our stunning collections.

See you there!
972 352 1279

#FalakCollections #ClearanceSale #OpenHouse #CoppellShopping
Falak Collection

2024 Solar Car Challenge Brings Teens from Across the U.S. to Fort Worth

Kelly Hunter — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 09:21:04 Z

FORT WORTH, Texas Thirty-two teams of high school students from across the United States are preparing to head to Texas for the 31^st annual Solar Car Challenge, during which they will race around Texas Motor Speedway for four days to see which teams car goes the greatest distance. The race begins July 14.

The Solar Car Challenge, which is a finalist in the 2024 D CEO Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards in the Innovation and Education category, was established in 1993 by educator Dr. Lehman Marks. The program is designed to help motivate students in the fields of science, technology and alternative energy. Preparations for this years race began with educational workshops last September, though it can take teams two to three years to see their ideas come to fruition. Students built the cars using their own ideas and starting from scratch. Before the race, their cars will face scrutineering rigorous evaluation by a panel of experienced judges at the speedway from July 11-13.

During the race, car breakdowns, weather conditions and team experience will limit the number of miles a team can drive each day. The team driving the most miles accumulated over the four days of racing at Texas Motor Speedway will be declared the winner.

Students who take part in the Solar Car Challenge have a 23% greater chance of going into a STEM career than students participating in other STEM programs. This is the top project-based STEM program in the country, Marks said. We teach the kids how to build a plan, come up with a budget, fundraise, how to engineer the car and manage the project, all while theyre learning about how to harness energy from the sun to make a car go down the road.

This years Solar Car Challenge will feature 32 teams from 12 states, including 16 teams from Texas, four teams from California, two each from Kentucky and Florida, and one each from Idaho, Maryland, Connecticut, Missouri, Oregon, Washington, Arkansas and Michigan. There are teams in various stages of development in 39 states, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Bahamas, Spain and Singapore. A cross-country version of the race occurs biannually, with alternating years showcasing cars on the track at Texas Motor Speedway.

This is the brain sport, Marks said. Its not just about building the car, but how to drive that car, solve the inevitable problems that happen with the car, and keeping your team intact through four grueling days of racing. Doing the Solar Car Challenge makes these students better equipped to face the challenges theyll have in life.

For more information on the Solar Car Challenge, visit https://www.solarcarchallenge.org/challenge/media.shtml.

For photos and videos of prior races, contact Sunwest Communications at HEC@sunwestpr.com.

A media day will be held on Friday, July 12, at Texas Motor Speedway. Contact Sunwest Communications at HEC@sunwestpr.com for more information.

For sponsorship information on the Solar Car Challenge Foundation, contact Dr. Marks at 214.587.8489 or LehmanM743@aol.com.

ABOUT THE SOLAR CAR CHALLENGE

The Solar Car Challenge & Education Program is designed to help motivate students in Science, Engineering, and Alternative Energy. We teach high school students how to plan, design, engineer, build, race, and evaluate roadworthy solar cars. Students demonstrate that green technology can create a better world. The Solar Car Challenge has 261 ongoing high school solar car projects located in 39 states, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, the Bahamas, Spain and Singapore. These teams are in the process of designing, engineering and building roadworthy solar cars in anticipation of an upcoming solar racing event. The Challenges Education Program provides support for schools seeking to be a part of this top project-based STEM Initiative. The Solar Car Challenges Education Program has served the educational community for 26 national events. More than 65,000 students have directly benefited from this program.

Dallas Symphony Orchestra League gifts $1,250,000 to DSO

Deborah Brown — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:28:56 Z

Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL) President Nancy Labadie presented a check for $1,250,000 to Kim Noltemy, Ross Perot President and CEO of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. at the DSOLs Finale Tea and Awards at Royal Oaks Country Club.

We are so proud to give our annual donation to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra to further their innovative and essential Education and Community Outreach programs, said Nancy.

This substantial donation was made possible by the extraordinary efforts of fundraising Chairs and their teams: Laura Price, Jada Mowles, Suzanne Austin, Kristin Cordiak, Nikki Beneke, and Joanie Stephens. The four major fundraisers contributing to the total amount are the Presentation Ball, Junior Symphony Ball, Savor the Symphony and Fashion Notes Designer Award and Luncheon.

Thank you for your friendship and support through this year, said Nancy. It has been a privilege to serve alongside each of you as we raise awareness and support for our beloved Dallas Symphony Orchestra and their incomparable Education and Community Outreach Programs. I could not be more proud of what we have accomplished together.

Founded in 1946, the DSOL continues to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra through dedicated service, education, and fundraising activities. Since 1998, the League has contributed over $23 million to the Dallas Symphony Associations Community Outreach and Education programs, bringing the magic of the symphony to thousands of young people and adults across the Dallas Metroplex.

Jersey Mikes Month and Day of Giving benefiting Wipe Out Kids Cancer Earns More Than Ever

Sharon Adams — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 15:36:27 Z

Jersey Mikes Celebrated 14^th Annual Month of Giving

Wipe Out Kids Cancer joined forces with 70 Jersey Mikes Subs in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex for the 14^th annual March Month of Giving fundraising campaign to support local charities. During the month of March, customers made a donation to Wipe Out Kids Cancer (WOKC) at participating Jersey Mikes restaurants.

The Month of Giving campaign culminated with Jersey Mikes Day of Giving on Wednesday, March 27, when DFW Jersey Mikes restaurants gave 100 percent of the days sales not just profit to Wipe Out Kids Cancer, earning $643,000 to WOKC and $25 million overall throughout the country. This was a record for Wipe Out Kids' Cancer.

"WOKC is extremely blessed to have this amazing and unique partnership with Jersey Mike's. It is unheard of for a company to donate 100% of sales, but since 2011, Jersey Mike's has done just that. This wonderful gift will be used to provide comfort and hope to kids (and their families) fighting pediatric cancer, said Kris Cumnock, CEO Wipe Out Kids Cancer.

We are profoundly grateful to Jersey Mikes, their DFW franchisees, and their customers for their kind generosity, treasured partnership, and continued support toward our mission of eradicating pediatric cancer and providing hope for our young children battling this disease, said WOKC Founder Cindy Brinker Simmons. Jersey Mikes has created an astounding culture of giving that has deeply touched the heroic families we serve.

For thirteen years, Jersey Mikes owners and operators throughout the country have raised over $113 million for more than 200 different charities including hospitals, youth organizations, food banks, and more.

About Jersey Mikes

Jersey Mikes Subs, with nearly 2,500 locations nationwide, serves authentic fresh sliced/fresh grilled subs on in-store freshly baked bread the same recipe it started with in 1956. Passion for giving in Jersey Mikes local communities is reflected in its mission statement Givingmaking a difference in someones life. For more information, please visit jerseymikes.com or follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/jerseymikes), Instagram (instagram.com/jerseymikes), and Twitter (twitter.com/jerseymikes.com).

About Wipe Out Kids Cancer

Founded in 1980, Wipe Out Kids Cancer offers comfort and hope to kids with cancer through support programs that serve the entire family and funds innovative research that leads to new discoveries in the fight against pediatric cancer. For more information, visit www.wokc.org or follow on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WipeOutKidsCancer/), Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/wokc/), and Twitter (https://twitter.com/wipeoutkdscancr).

McKinney to Pulsate with Rhythms of Africa at Vibrant Music Festival

Bubble Life — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 16:11:22 Z

McKinney, TX, is set to come alive with the electrifying sounds of Africa at the upcoming African Vibration Music Festival on Saturday, June 29th. This exciting event, presented by Yolk Magic, promises an unforgettable journey into the rich tapestry of African music and culture.

The festival kicks off at 2 pm and continues until 11 pm CDT at District 121 (6731 Alma Road, McKinney, TX). Music lovers can expect a captivating blend of traditional African rhythms with modern influences, creating a unique soundscape that transcends borders and unites the community.

"The African Vibration Music Festival is more than just a concert," enthuses the event organizer, Yolk Magic. "It's a celebration of community, diversity, and the undeniable power of music to connect us all."

Imagine yourself swaying under the summer sky, surrounded by a vibrant crowd grooving to the infectious rhythms of Africa. This is your chance to shed the ordinary and embrace an extraordinary cultural experience. Don't miss this opportunity to create lasting memories!

The festival boasts a stellar lineup featuring some of Africa's most talented artists, including:

Thomas Mapfumo
Sulu Chimbetu
Mokoomba
Nsibo
Sakidi
Tina
Niina

Tickets are on sale now BUY NOW

For those seeking a taste of African culture and a night filled with electrifying music, the African Vibration Music Festival is a must-attend event. Grab your tickets, gather your loved ones, and prepare to experience the vibrant energy of Africa right here in McKinney!

McKinney to Pulsate with Rhythms of Africa at Vibrant Music Festival

Bubble Life — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 16:11:22 Z

McKinney, TX, is set to come alive with the electrifying sounds of Africa at the upcoming African Vibration Music Festival on Saturday, June 29th. This exciting event, presented by Yolk Magic, promises an unforgettable journey into the rich tapestry of African music and culture.

The festival boasts a stellar lineup featuring some of Africa's most talented artists, including:

Thomas Mapfumo
Sulu Chimbetu
Mokoomba
Nsibo
Sakidi
Tina
Niina

Tickets are on sale now BUY NOW

Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas Provides Emergency Relief for Recent DFW Storms

Sophia Stoller — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 12:30:00 Z

Contact:

Sophia Stoller

Jewish Family Service

Marketing Director

Cell 972-977-1111

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas Provides Emergency Relief for Recent DFW Storms

DALLAS, TEXAS June 4, 2024 In response to the recent devastating storms in the DFW area, Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas (JFS) is offering comprehensive support and resources to those affected. We hope you and your loved ones are safe during this challenging time.

If you have been impacted by the storms, please reach out to us for assistance. Our dedicated team is available to help you navigate the aftermath and provide necessary relief services.

Contact Information:

Phone: 972-437-9950 X 375

Location: JFS Northpoint Community Health Center, 12606 Greenville Ave, Suite 200, Dallas, TX 75243

Storm Relief Assistance Hours:

This Week: (June 3 - 7): Monday - Friday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Next Week: (June 10 - 14): Monday, Tuesday, Friday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Medical Service Hours:

This Week (June 3 - 7):

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Next Week (June 10 - 14):

Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Services Available:

Food Pantry and Emergency Food Assistance: Immediate food supplies are available.

Emergency Financial Aid: Limited Storm Relief Fund to help with insurance deductibles for homes or vehicles damaged by the storm.

Crisis Support and Ongoing Mental Health Services: Support for children and teens, parents and caregivers, schools and families, businesses/offices, first responders/community helpers and volunteers, adult behavioral health services, and older adult services.

We encourage those affected to visit our clinic or contact us for immediate assistance. Additional online resources can be found at jfsdallas.org/dallasstormrelief

# # #

Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas is a nonprofit organization providing comprehensive health services that address physical, emotional, nutritional, and financial well-being. Their mission is to provide effective and accessible whole-person care that promotes lifelong self-sufficiency and well-being for the Greater Dallas community. JFS Dallas offers programs to the community such as primary medical care, individual age-appropriate counseling and group support, career and financial coaching, a food pantry, support for older adults, and a Clubhouse for adults with mental illness. Since 1950, they have served anyone, regardless of age, race, religion, or ability to pay. The agencys services impacted over 16,500 lives last year. Jfsdallas.org

Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas Celebrates 2024 Gold Award Girl Scout Class

Stephanie Horne — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 19:00:00 Z

Local high school leaders recognized for tackling societal issues, including gender disparity and mental wellness.

Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas honored 111 members of the 2024 Girl Scout Gold Award class in an inspiring ceremony at the Plano Event Center, making it the council with the third-highest number of Gold Award Girl Scouts in the nation. These exceptional young women achieved the highest honor in Girl Scouting by identifying key community challenges and developing innovative solutions.

Gold Award Girl Scouts emerge as empathetic leaders, confident communicators, innovative problem-solvers, and adept project managers, giving them a personal and professional edge. Utilizing the resourcefulness, tenacity, and decision-making skills honed during their Girl Scouting experience, they navigate complex issues and demonstrate the profound impact that young leaders can make in the world, inspiring others to follow in their trailblazing footsteps.

The 2024 Gold Award Girl Scouts address a range of issues that American teens feel are most prevalent in society today. This year, the prominent focus areas included diversity, equity, inclusion, and racial justice (DEI-RJ), mental and physical well-being, and environmental sustainability. Each project aligns with one or more of the Girl Scout pillarsSTEM, Outdoors, Life Skills, and Entrepreneurshipshowcasing the comprehensive skills and values that Girl Scouts instills in its members, helping them develop into well-rounded, capable leaders.

Among the impactful initiatives, Zoya Hussain dedicated her project, "Share-Space," towards bridging the gender disparity in STEM fields, where less than 20% of the workforce comprises gender minorities. Zoya collaborated with The Hack Foundation and co-founder Christina Asquith to deliver numerous hackathon events, teaching over 100 students coding skills like website development and video game design. Demonstrating outstanding entrepreneurial spirit through its effective and sustainable workshop model, her project recently secured a grant from SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell to expand its reach to 1,000 students across the nation. Zoya will graduate from Great Hearts Irving Upper School in 2025.

Representing the Girl Scout Pillar of Outdoors, Elizabeth Cater's project, "Red, White, & BBQ," was designed to establish a welcoming outdoor space at CampV, a veterans' campus in East Texas. Motivated by the troubling statistic that 22 veterans commit suicide each day, Elizabeth embarked on a mission to raise awareness and support. She presented at churches and other organizations throughout the community about the mental health challenges and PTSD that veterans face. Her remarkable efforts for CampV, which provided all essential barbecue equipment, including grills, utensils, trash cans, and a drawer storage system, earned her formal recognition from the Smith County Commissioners Court, which declared May 14 as "Elizabeth Cater Day." Elizabeth is set to graduate this year from Bishop Thomas K. Gorman Catholic School, where she has distinguished herself as the senior class president and salutatorian.

"These Gold Award Girl Scouts are not just participants in their communities but active architects of change," said Jennifer Bartkowski, CEO of Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas. Each of their projects proves these young women are well-equipped to lead and innovate in any environment and underscores the powerful impact of the Girl Scout leadership experience.

Changing the world doesnt end when a Girl Scout earns her Gold Award. Research indicates that recipients are more likely to assume leadership roles in various capacities throughout their lives and are more civically engaged than their non-Girl Scout peers. The majority of Gold Award Girl Scouts agree that earning their Gold Award gave them skills that help them succeed professionally and credit the Gold Award for helping them get a scholarship, highlighting its substantial benefits beyond community service.

Achieved by less than 6% of Girl Scouts, the Gold Award requires a minimum of 80 hours of leading a team in a community service project and showcases these young women as tomorrow's leaders. Gold Award Girl Scouts embody the spirit and values of Girl Scouts, proving that with courage, confidence, and character, they are indeed the leaders who will shape a better future.

For more information about the Gold Awards, including requirements and deadlines to apply, visit gsnetx.org/goldaward.

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We Are Girl Scouts

Whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike, advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges. Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas serves girls and adult volunteers across 32 counties. To change the workforce pipeline in STEM and meet the urgent need for female voices, engagement, and leadership, Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas opened the STEM Center of Excellence in 2018. Learn more at gsnetx.org or call 972-349-2400.

Media Contact: Stephanie Horne

Public Relations Manager, GSNETX

469-994-1629 | shijazi@gsnetx.com