Staff & Reader Submitted

Dallas PULSE Honoring Military Members and Health Care Workers April 17

Carolyn Alvey — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 20:41:34 Z

The Dallas PULSE return to Comerica Center on Friday, April 17, at 7:00 p.m., to take on the Columbus Fury. This home match will serve as a special Hearts and Heroes appreciation night, recognizing military members and healthcare workers in the North Texas community on the court before the first set.

Fans who would like to nominate a military member, veteran, healthcare worker, or first responder to be recognized on the court during Hearts and Heroes night can submit their name using the linked form here. The window for nominations will close Monday, April 13, at 12:00 pm.

We are incredibly grateful to the brave men and women who have served in the military and those dedicated to caring for others through healthcare, said Dallas PULSE Vice President of Marketing & Creative, Katrina Streiner. Our partnership with Black Heart Association gives our fans attending the Hearts and Heroes match a chance to take control of their heart health. We know healthy hearts are essential for strong performances on the court, and we look forward to helping fans better understand their own health.

Local nonprofit Black Heart Association (BHA) will be onsite at Comerica Center from 3 pm to 6:45 p.m., performing free heart screenings inside their Cardiovascular and Resource Delivery Vehicle (CARDI V). Trained staff and medical providers will conduct these screenings with a simple finger prick, delivering instant results and offering insight.

These complimentary heart health screenings provide potentially life-saving information and give participants the opportunity to detect early signs of cardiovascular issues. The screenings offer a clearer understanding of overall heart health and help guide individuals toward appropriate next steps.

Tickets for the April 17 Hearts and Heroes home game are available here.

Headquartered out of Grand Prairie, Black Heart Association is a nonprofit focused on improving heart health through advocacy, education and empowerment. The organization works to ensure individuals of all backgrounds have access to the resources they need to take meaningful steps toward longer, healthier lives. To learn more about BHA and the free screenings, visit blackheartassociation.org.

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

CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW: WONDER IN THE GARDEN by Talia Aikens-Nuñez

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 16:28:56 Z

Wonder in the Garden

by Talia Aikens-Nuñez

Illustrated by Irena Freitas

Light-hearted and colorful childrens picture book with a fun story that introduces basic Spanish vocabulary.

Wonder in the Garden is a light-hearted and colorful new childrens picture book by veteran childrens author Talia Aikens-Nuñez about a day in the life of a girl and her dog, Nube, as they help with the home garden. Besides the fun story, readers are introduced to some basic Spanish vocabulary useful in daily life.

A young girl, her extended family, and her pet dog live together with a large, productive garden and orchard on their property. As she and Nube frolic through the fruit and vegetables, the Spanish equivalents of simple sentences, reactions, and observations of what they encounter are provided. The narrative is fun and full of life. Young readers and listeners will smile over the joyous play of the girl and her rascally dog. It is a fun way to see and hear simple Spanish words and sentences in a relatable context.

This story is vividly illustrated with colorful scenes by artist Irena Freitas. With clear visuals, little readers and listeners will have fun discovering all the wonderful details included on every page.

I recommend WONDER IN THE GARDEN as a wonderful option for use at home or in the classroom with single-language or bilingual speakers and readers.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Goddess Fish Promotions Book Tours.

CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW: ZOG'S BIG QUESTION by Adam Rice, illustrated by Mac Rice

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 15:11:49 Z

Zogs Big Question:

An Interplanetary Tale of Wonder, Belief, and Big Questions

Adam Rice

Illustrated by Mac Rice

Fun, sweet sci-fi tale that simplifies a complicated concept.

Zogs Big Question by Adam Rice and colorfully illustrated by Mac Rice delves into the quandary of faith versus science and helps young readers come away with a more comfortable understanding of this complex concept. Zog is a young Questling on the planet Luminos, where the inhabitants are cute, blue, water-drop-shaped creatures with triangular arms and legs and two expressive antennae. They also base their lives and culture on scientifically-proven facts and eat the bounty of the Knowing Fruit Tree. While they may sound comical, they exude a calm and friendly persona that children will find fun and completely non-threatening. Zog has heard that the inhabitants of the planet Terra accept some big ideas without scientific proof, and, finding this totally perplexing, decides to investigate the curious rumor in person. So, he leaves his home in a borrowed spacecraft and travels to Terra to see the truth for himself.

While the story was not what I expected, I enjoyed it nonetheless, finding clarity in the simple explanation of how and why faith and science can be complementary. However, I do think a more specific book description, or blurb, regarding the focus on faith is needed as the one provided is so broad, it is a little misleading. I appreciated that while the central characters on Terra, Sam and Max, come from a Catholic-like church, the story emphasizes all religious traditions and not just those of a Christian viewpoint. I liked that the children took Zog to a secular institution for answers, too.

Zog is engaging, and children will easily relate to his curious nature. The illustrations are rendered in calming blues on Luminos, with one drawing very reminiscent of a setting from the movie Avatar, and, once Zog is on Terra (Earth), greens are emphasized, too. At over 40 pages, it is more of a chapter than a picture book, and would be suitable for reading aloud at home, in Sunday school, or in religion classes. I would definitely like to see Zog return in future stories to tackle other adventures.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Goddess Fish Promotions Book Tours.

BOOK REVIEW: ARSON, OLD LACE, AND MURDER (CHARLIE KINGSLEY MYSTERY, #8) by Michele Pariza Wacek

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 14:40:27 Z

Arson, Old Lace, and Murder

Charlie Kingsley Mystery, #8

Michele Pariza Wacek

Charlie is drawn into a deadly case of arson, murder, and revenge.

Arson, Old Lace, and Murder is the eighth book in author Michele Pariza Wacek's always-intriguing Charlie Kingsley Mystery series, where a deadly case of arson draws Charlie into the affairs of the clannish 1888ers, the direct descendants of the children left behind when every adult in Redemption mysteriously disappeared in a single night. While Charlie is delivering a tea order to her one client who lives in a part of town almost exclusively inhabited by 1888ers, she discovers a local business ablaze, with a young woman trapped inside. After rescuing her and hearing that a man was still in the building, Charlie returns to make another attempt, but it's too late. In the meantime, though, the survivor, who is well along in pregnancy, disappears with Charlie's coat and the money from her wallet. Shockingly, the police officer on the scene is completely uninterested in locating the young mother-to-be, or in investigating what is obviously a case of arson. The following day, after the local paper reports Charlie's actions at the fire, the wife of the man who perished comes to hire her to investigate his murder.

Once again, Charlie Kingsley is at the center of a baffling crime that Officer Brandon Wyle doesn't want her investigating. However, this story is unique in that even her friends are adamantly opposed to her involvement, except for pseudo-detective and retired high school English teacher, Mildred Schmidt, who is eager to assist.

Charlie hits a brick wall with every clue she pursues, and even the young woman who had pulled the disappearing act is unwilling to tell what she knows. In an interesting twist, Wyle is warned off asking questions about the case by his superiors and is forced to encourage Charlie to dig up something so concrete that the case can no longer be swept under the rug. The barriers to the official investigation into anything related to the 1888ers are unknown, but whatever they are, they are closely guarded secrets.

Charlie and Wyle's relationship is off-kilter and uneasy, and I'm becoming less and less an advocate of their pairing as time goes on. I don't feel like he supports her or truly respects her as a smart and capable adult. It's time she explores other options.

The story maintains a brisk pace as Charlie does her best to pry information from anyone who might shed light on the secrets of the 1888ers and an even more insular group, The Forgotten. The resolution was surprising, but it made sense.

While this book is the eighth in the series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. However, for the best experience, read a couple of the previous books in this or the related series by the author. I recommend ARSON, OLD LACE, AND MURDER to readers of cozy mysteries, especially those who enjoy paranormal elements in their stories.

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

BOOK REVIEW: ARSON, OLD LACE, AND MURDER (CHARLIE KINGSLEY MYSTERY, #8) by Michele Pariza Wacek

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 14:40:27 Z

Arson, Old Lace, and Murder

Charlie Kingsley Mystery, #8

Michele Pariza Wacek

Charlie is drawn into a deadly case of arson, murder, and revenge.

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

BOOK REVIEW - HERA: KINGDOM OF LIES by Betsy Ellor

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 14:05:12 Z

HERA: Kingdom of Lies

Betsy Ellor

A riveting reimagining of Greek mythology's portrayal of Hera, the queen of all the cosmos.

HERA: Kingdom of Lies by Betsy Ellor is a vivid and riveting reimagining of the Greek goddess Hera's story, from before her marriage to Zeus to after. The goddess of marriage, motherhood, and family, Hera, is most often portrayed as jealous, quarrelsome, and vindictive, yet she is inevitably standing up to Zeus in support of the people and her dominions' responsibilities. Ellor's story brings together various tales involving the goddess and her relationship with Zeus and presents them in a lively, dramatic, and compelling fashion that had me reading this book from start to finish in one day.

Beginning with her life on the island of Samos, Hera is the queen of a growing population of refugees fleeing from Zeus's war against Kronos (her father) and the Titans. Hera is a gifted and capable leader who is not afraid to get her hands dirty and is revered by the people. She is a confident young woman (in immortal years) who pitches in to serve however she can. The author deftly works in Hera's unique and unbelievable origin story and her rescue from captivity by Zeus, establishing that she has long harbored tender affections for her liberator. When the war is won, she is delighted by his eager courtship, but his ego and man-baby antics quickly disillusion her. Her drastically changed feelings for him resulted in violent and tragic consequences as well as pregnancy. Readers sensitive to this type of story element should take note. The attack is brutal and gut-wrenching to read, but Hera doesn't let it destroy her; rather, she uses it to strengthen her resolve to do what she can to temper Zeus's frequently thoughtless actions and poor decisions that affect their people.

While traditional versions of the same stories often feel dry and dusty, Ellor's fresh narrative really makes Hera's tales, warts and all, come to life. You could feel her emotions, understand her actions, and see how she strives to embody the best of marriage, motherhood, and family. The book closes with the promise of more story yet to come, and I can hardly wait.

I recommend HERA: KINGDOM OF LIES to readers of modern takes on ancient mythologies.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy through WOW! Women On Writing Book Tours.

BOOK REVIEW - HERA: KINGDOM OF LIES by Betsy Ellor

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 14:05:12 Z

HERA: Kingdom of Lies

Betsy Ellor

A riveting reimagining of Greek mythology's portrayal of Hera, the queen of all the cosmos.

I recommend HERA: KINGDOM OF LIES to readers of modern takes on ancient mythologies.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy through WOW! Women On Writing Book Tours.

BOOK REVIEW - HERA: KINGDOM OF LIES by Betsy Ellor

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 14:05:12 Z

HERA: Kingdom of Lies

Betsy Ellor

A riveting reimagining of Greek mythology's portrayal of Hera, the queen of all the cosmos.

I recommend HERA: KINGDOM OF LIES to readers of modern takes on ancient mythologies.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy through WOW! Women On Writing Book Tours.

CHILDREN'S AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: RELATIVELY NORMAL SECRETS (FALINNHEIM CHRONICLES, #1) by C.W. Allen

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 08:00:00 Z

Relatively Normal Secrets

The Falinnheim Chronicles, #1

C.W. Allen

Fast-paced and full of surprises, with engaging main child characters

Relatively Normal Secrets is the first book in author C.W. Allens delightful middle-grade fantasy series, The Falinnheim Chronicles, and features two precocious and curious siblings, Zed and Tuesday Furst. Obsessed with their parents shadowy pasts that no amount of questioning seems to shed any light on, Zed and Tuesday decide to take the opportunity to search their house for clues when their parents leave for a short business trip. Instructed to head directly to a trusted neighbors home after school, the brother and sister decide to detour to their own home instead to put their plan in action.

Before they can even make a cursory look, two large, menacing men show up at the house and try to grab them and their pet dog, Nyx. With Nyxs intervention, they escape through the woods behind the house, where they are magically transported to another land called Falinnheim. Suspecting the evil men will soon be on their trail, they travel to the nearest town in hopes of finding a way to return home and reunite with their parents.

The two Furst siblings are fun, smart kids with engaging personalities and a talent for getting into trouble. Their questions about their parents pasts are relatable, and their parents deft deflection very mysterious. The various conspiracy theories and possible alternate lives the kids dream up to explain their parents reactions were wild and fun, and I loved how the two siblings worked together to find answers throughout the story.

The plot is fast-paced and full of surprises, with magical elements, bandits, an evil, tyrannical leader, and a dangerous resistance group in hiding. The children find direction in mysterious, altered nursery rhymes left for them along the path of their journey, and Nyx proves to be more than just a pet dog. The exciting cliffhanger ending left me anxious for the next book.

Ivy Tara Blair ably narrates the audiobook and creates distinct voices for each character. I appreciated the clarity of her delivery and the variety and vocal nuances she used to create the impression of different speakers. I would be happy to listen to more of her narrations.

I recommend RELATIVELY NORMAL SECRETS to fans of middle-grade fantasy books.

For this and other reviews, visit by blog - Boys' Mom Reads!

BOOK REVIEW: MURDER, LOCAL STYLE (ORCHID ISLE MYSTERY, #3) by Leslie Karst

KAREN SIDDALL — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 18:37:04 Z

Murder, Local Style

Orchid Isle Mystery, #3

Leslie Karst

When the local orchid club president is murdered, Valerie steps up to catch the killer.

Murder, Local Style is the third book in veteran author Leslie Karsts fun and layered Orchid Isle Mystery series, and once again, Valerie must step in to investigate a local death. When the president of her neighborhoods orchid club dies after eating food she prepared for their clubs annual memorial dinner, Valerie naturally has a vested interest in clearing her name.

Valerie Corbin, a former caterer, graciously agrees to help prepare the annual dinner when one of the two volunteers responsible must go to Oahu to care for her sick mother. Thankfully, only 60 attendees are expected, and most of the menu shopping has been completed. The menu is comprised of local favorites that sound delicious, and there are fun discussions of their preparation woven into the story. As is her tradition, the author provides recipes at the end of the novel. Valerie had only just attended her first club meeting at the invitation of one of her neighbors and was hoping to meet others from the area, but making everyone sick with her cooking wasnt what she had in mind, so she had plenty of righteous motivation to discover the truth.

Readers get an insiders view of Valerie and Kristens marriage and home life, stressed by the murder and compounded by the building tensions between them and the inconsiderate neighbor next door, who uses loud power tools from dawn to dusk and has a dog that barks incessantly. Kristens nephew, Sean, has also come for an extended stay, and he gets upset when he overhears one of Valeries possible hypotheses, which would implicate his new island amour, who is also a member of the orchid club. Later, when he disappears for several days without a word to his aunt, Kristen is naturally concerned and upset, and Valerie doesnt share her urgency to find him, which I found out of character for her. On the other hand, while Kristen has been somewhat supportive of Valeries past sleuthing, shes really not on board this time, even though someone has done their best to point the finger at her wife.

The plot is full of neighborhood gossip and intrigue, with everyone involved living within the same area. Everyone knows everyone else, their families, and all their business, so there are plenty of suspects to consider and some very good red herrings to rule out. As always, the author imbues the story with local flavor, both cultural and culinary.

I recommend MURDER, LOCAL STYLE to cozy mystery readers, especially those who would enjoy a Big Island setting.

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

BOOK REVIEW: WIRED FOR MAGIC by Janet Roberts

KAREN SIDDALL — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:54:26 Z

Wired for Magic

Janet Roberts

Fun mix of magic, high-tech, and suspense!

Wired For Magic by Janet Roberts is a fun mix of magic, high-tech, and suspense, making for an interesting and unique tale as a former supermodel deals with a billionaire stalker after her and her magical abilities. Rowan Campbell is tired of running from the thugs hired by high-tech mogul Jarrod Marrone. What started as an obsession with her beauty and presence has evolved to a determination to possess her and her, as yet untapped, magical abilities, which were passed down to her through her maternal line.

The story begins with Rowan on the run once again, narrowly escaping being snatched by two of Jarrods large minions in a London tube station. This time, however, Rowan has a plan to evade Marrones goons long enough to go to her Aunt Maya in Wales to finally learn about the magic shes ignored all her life. From the context, it appears there is a lot of backstory to catch up on regarding Jarrods attempt to secure Rowan, so much so that I often felt like I was reading the second book in a series. Still, as the book progresses, bits and pieces are revealed to create a picture of obsession and a man with too much time on his hands and plenty of money to spend on unscrupulous plans.

The plot is chock-full of fun and interesting twists and coincidental connections. I liked how several of the women Rowan met on her journey continued to work on her behalf, even as literal strangers. The Welsh setting lent the story a fresh look and feel while still tapping into the ancient Celtic mythology that is usually associated with Ireland. The places Rowan visits are varied and vividly described, giving one the impression of having been there in person. I also enjoyed the Pittsburgh locations stateside, a big and vibrant city full of history, but not as overused as New York and others.

I recommend WIRED FOR MAGIC to readers who enjoy contemporary and suspense-filled fantasies.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.

BOOK REVIEW: WIRED FOR MAGIC by Janet Roberts

KAREN SIDDALL — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:54:26 Z

Wired for Magic

Janet Roberts

Fun mix of magic, high-tech, and suspense!

I recommend WIRED FOR MAGIC to readers who enjoy contemporary and suspense-filled fantasies.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.

BOOK REVIEW: WIRED FOR MAGIC by Janet Roberts

KAREN SIDDALL — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:54:26 Z

Wired for Magic

Janet Roberts

Fun mix of magic, high-tech, and suspense!

I recommend WIRED FOR MAGIC to readers who enjoy contemporary and suspense-filled fantasies.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.

Junior Achievement of Dallas Celebrates Record-Breaking 2026 Dallas Business Hall of Fame

Juliette DC — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:32:27 Z

Gala raises $1.4 million, honors four laureates and welcomes surprise appearance by Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott

Junior Achievement of Dallas (JA Dallas) honored four distinguished business leaders at the 28th annual Dallas Business Hall of Fame on Saturday, March 28, at the Omni Dallas Hotel. The fundraising galapresented by Ryan, LLCrecognized Susan Adzick, Phillip Huffines, Allen Nye and Steven Williams for their lasting contributions to the Dallas business community and region.

The event raised a record-breaking $1.4 million in support of JA Dallas' mission to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy.

Dallas Cowboys Strength and Conditioning Coach Harold Nash served as emcee, kicking off the program by pondering aloud what exactly a Cowboys strength coach was doing hosting a celebration of Dallas business leadersbefore drawing a convincing parallel between his work developing athletes and Junior Achievement's work preparing students for the real world. Nash set a high-energy tone that carried through the entire evening.

JaiMarie Bardwell, a senior at Irving High School, was named the 2026 Student of the Year and awarded the Sandi Smith Scholarshipa $15,000 award to support her higher education journey. Selected from a competitive pool of applicants, Bardwell was recognized for her leadership, service and commitment to creating opportunity for others, including her mentorship of younger students through the JA High School Heroes program. Casey Mellody, JA Dallas Vice President of Education, presented the award. Stephen Tigh, JA Dallas Board Chair, followed with a champagne toast before dinner.

When Chris LaTurno, president and CEO of Junior Achievement of Dallas, took the stage, he emphasized the lasting impact JA has on students' trajectoriesand why the organization's hands-on approach is exactly what the future demands.

"Three in five JA alumni say they started or owned a business because of their JA experienceand 92 percent agree that as automation and AI change jobs and the economy, students who go through JA will be better prepared for the future," said LaTurno. "Students are not just hearing about economics and personal financethey are experiencing them."

Auctioneer Scott Peterson followed with a competitive live auction featuring exclusive experiences, including trips to the Amalfi Coast, Sonoma Valley and Champagne, France, as well as a Texas Rangers package and a private dinner at Chamberlains Steak and Fish.

The evening took an unforgettable turn during the live appeal, when Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescottin attendance at the invitation of his coach and mentor Harold Nashtook the stage and announced a personal gift of $25,000 to Junior Achievement of Dallas.

"I am the man that I am, strictly because of the community that was around me when I grew up, said Prescott. It takes a village to raise somebody, and everyone in this room is a part of that community. So, I'm giving $25,000 tonightI challenge each and every one of you to give to the leaders of tomorrow.

Prescott then tossed autographed footballs to guests making matching donations throughout the room.

JA Dallas students introduced each of the evening's four honorees.

Susan Adzick, president of McLane Restaurant, leads one of the largest food service systems distribution companies in the country, with 45 distribution centers delivering to more than 34,000 restaurants. She has held executive roles at McLane and previously at PepsiCo Food Systems and has served on boards including the International Foodservice Distributors Association, National Restaurant Association and Women's Foodservice Forum. She has also been involved with the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas and the Dallas Arboretum Women's Council.

Phillip Huffines, co-founder and co-owner of Huffines Communities, has spent more than four decades transforming the North Texas landscape through real estate development. His firm has developed more than 20,000 single-family homesites and 2,500 multifamily units, generating billions in value and supporting regional growth. A dedicated mentor and philanthropist, he supports STEM education and entrepreneurship through the Huffines Foundation and is a longtime JA Dallas board membernamed the organization's Philanthropist of the Year in 2018.

Allen Nye, CEO of Oncor, leads Texas' largest electric delivery company, serving more than 13 million customers. Under his leadership since 2018, Oncor has emphasized safety, reliability and innovation while guiding the company through an era of rapid growth and modernization. He is also active in civic and industry organizations supporting public service, economic development and education.

Steven Williams, executive vice president and vice chairman of PepsiCo, leads global commercial strategy, stakeholder engagement and growth initiatives across one of the worlds most recognized food and beverage companies. A PepsiCo veteran since 2001, he previously served as CEO of PepsiCo North America and serves on boards including State Farm, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and UT Southwestern.

The Dallas Business Hall of Fame raises funds to help JA Dallas provide students across North Texas with hands-on learning experiences in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurshipequipping them with the skills, knowledge and confidence to become the next generation of leaders.

Special thanks to sponsors, including:

Presenting Sponsor: Ryan
Achievement Sponsors: DHD Films, Oncor, PepsiCo
Elite Sponsors: Hillwood, Huffines Foundation, The Men and Women of Hunt Consolidated, Inc., McLane Food Service, Turtle Creek Wealth Advisors
Leadership Sponsors: BravoTECH, The Brierley Group, Ernst & Young, KPMG, Southwest Airlines

About Junior Achievement of Dallas

Junior Achievement of Dallas (JA Dallas) inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy. Over the past 70 years, the nonprofit organization has reached more than 1.3 million students across the region with real-world learning experiences in financial literacy, workplace readiness and entrepreneurship. In the past year alone, JA Dallas served 99,661 students through just over 50 school partners, powered by 3,124 volunteers who contributed 458,594 hours of their time, valued at more than $15.4 million. These immersive, hands-on experiences equip young people with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to lead and thrive. Research shows that JA alumni are more likely to pursue higher education, feel confident managing money, experience career success and start businesses. For more information, visit jadallas.org.

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Photo credit: Brad Newton/Grant Miller Photography

Junior Achievement of Dallas Celebrates Record-Breaking 2026 Dallas Business Hall of Fame

Juliette DC — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:32:27 Z

Gala raises $1.4 million, honors four laureates and welcomes surprise appearance by Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott

The event raised a record-breaking $1.4 million in support of JA Dallas' mission to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy.

Prescott then tossed autographed footballs to guests making matching donations throughout the room.

JA Dallas students introduced each of the evening's four honorees.

Special thanks to sponsors, including:

Presenting Sponsor: Ryan
Achievement Sponsors: DHD Films, Oncor, PepsiCo
Elite Sponsors: Hillwood, Huffines Foundation, The Men and Women of Hunt Consolidated, Inc., McLane Food Service, Turtle Creek Wealth Advisors
Leadership Sponsors: BravoTECH, The Brierley Group, Ernst & Young, KPMG, Southwest Airlines

About Junior Achievement of Dallas

# # #

Photo credit: Brad Newton/Grant Miller Photography

Junior Achievement of Dallas Celebrates Record-Breaking 2026 Dallas Business Hall of Fame

Juliette DC — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:32:27 Z

Gala raises $1.4 million, honors four laureates and welcomes surprise appearance by Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott

The event raised a record-breaking $1.4 million in support of JA Dallas' mission to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy.

Prescott then tossed autographed footballs to guests making matching donations throughout the room.

JA Dallas students introduced each of the evening's four honorees.

Special thanks to sponsors, including:

Presenting Sponsor: Ryan
Achievement Sponsors: DHD Films, Oncor, PepsiCo
Elite Sponsors: Hillwood, Huffines Foundation, The Men and Women of Hunt Consolidated, Inc., McLane Food Service, Turtle Creek Wealth Advisors
Leadership Sponsors: BravoTECH, The Brierley Group, Ernst & Young, KPMG, Southwest Airlines

About Junior Achievement of Dallas

# # #

Photo credit: Brad Newton/Grant Miller Photography

Meadows Museum to host free Celebrate Spain event April 23

Taylor Mayad — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 14:57:40 Z

Step into the sights, sounds and savory flavors of Spain as the Meadows Museum, SMU, presents Celebrate Spain 2026 on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 78:30 p.m. Free and open to the public, the annual event invites guests to experience an evening of Spanish culture from artmaking to a bustling mercado all set against the backdrop of the museums nationally renowned collection of Spanish art.

This years event pays homage to Málaga and its vibrant heritage, shaped by over 1,000 years of history influenced by Phoenician, Roman, Arab, and Christian civilizations. It is also the birthplace of Bernardo de Gálvez who played a crucial role in the American Revolution by leading Spanish forces to key victories against the British.

Celebrate Spain features a marketplace with artisan vendors, plus handson art activities for all ages and authentic Spanish cuisine such as paella and tapas. Designed to spark curiosity and connection, the event offers a dynamic way to discover the character and artistic spirit of Spain.

Other highlights include the opportunity for visitors to explore the Meadows Museums latest exhibitions including Raimundo de Madrazo, Yáñez: Saint Sebastian Revealed and the third edition of Meadows/ARCO Artist Spotlight: Rubén Guerrero. Volunteer docents will be on hand to provide insights.

Celebrate Spain brings the creativity and craftsmanship of Spain to life right here in Dallas, Texas, said Amanda W. Dotseth, Linda P. and William A. Custard Director of the Meadows Museum and Centennial Chair in the Meadows School of Arts, SMU. This year's event is inspired by the coastal culture of Málaga, birthplace of such notable Spaniards as, Bernardo Gálvez (for whom Galveston is named) and Pablo Picasso. This festive event offers a welcoming way to connect with Spain through its unique art and culture.

Meadows Museum members receive early access beginning at 5 p.m., including a memberexclusive concert by the Orchestra of New Spain, with Baroque and classical works by Spanish composers on period instruments. Members also enjoy early access to Spanish food and beverages, the mercado, and artmaking activities located throughout the museum.

Celebrate Spain is presented in partnership with National Tourism Office of Spain, with the support of Málaga Tourism Board, Ben E. Keith, and Dive Costal Cuisine. Mercado vendors will include Fabúla de Alegría, Español, la Lengua Amiga, Rare Freight, and Perillo Tours.

The Meadows Museum is located on the SMU campus at 5900 Bishop Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75205. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Thursday, and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Parking is free for museum visitors.

While the event is free, registration is required here. For more information, go to meadowsmuseumdallas.org/calendar.

About the Meadows Museum
The Meadows Museum is the leading U.S. institution focused on the study and presentation of the art of Spain. In 1962, Dallas businessman and philanthropist Algur H. Meadows donated his private collection of Spanish paintings, as well as funds to start a museum, to Southern Methodist University. The museum opened to the public in 1965, marking the first step in fulfilling Meadowss vision to create a small Prado for Texas. Today, the Meadows is home to one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Spanish art outside of Spain. The collection spans from the 10th to the 21st centuries and includes medieval objects, Renaissance and Baroque sculptures, and major paintings by Golden Age and modern masters. For more information visit meadowsmuseumdallas.org.

Summer Classes at Epicenter for the Arts!

Camille Dux — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 14:31:52 Z

Summer registration recently opened at Epicenter for the Arts - a premiere performing arts studio in Southlake!

Voted Best Studio in Southlake from 2019-2026, Epicenter for the Arts trains leaders and legends in the arts starting from the inside out. Their weekly classes, one-day camps and week-long intensives are for the beginner to advanced dancer. Each camp and intensive is filled with fun and creativity that challenges the dancer to grow in their artistry.

Technique Classes Include:

Ballet and Contemporary/Jazz classes (7yo +)

3-7yo Themed Dance Camps include:

Disney Princesses' Royal Ball

Dreams & Adventures

God's Great Safari

Underwater Mermaid Adventure

Summer camps (7yo +) include:

Acro Camp

Silks Camp

Hip Hop Workshop(8yo & up)

Intensives (8yo +) include:

Ballet Intensive

Movement Initiative (Contemporary/Modern/Jazz)

Tricks & Turns

The Summer session is from June 8th-August 7th. Call for more information or register today at www.epiarts.com.

About Epicenter for the Arts: Epicenter is located in Southlake, TX, and was founded in 2013 by Michelle and Alec Brogan. They have been voted Best Dance Studio in Southlake from 2019-2026 and have hundreds of students who enter their doors every week. Their mission is to train leaders and legends in the arts by focusing on creativity, excellence, community, and ministry. Epicenter can be contacted by phone at (817) 778-8828 or their website www.EpiArts.com.

CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW: CHICKEN FUN by Mary Jo Huff

KAREN SIDDALL — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:00:00 Z

Chicken Fun

by Mary Jo Huff

Illustrated by Wendy Fedan

For the chicken fan inside all of us.

Chicken Fun by Mary Jo Huff and illustrated by Wendy Fedan gives readers exactly what the title says: Chicken Fun, and that fun is for the cartoon chickens and readers as they smile their way through the ten chickens' antics. With bright colors, clever rhymes, and delightful drawings that magically portray the flock's energetic movements, readers of all ages will find something to enjoy.

Each set of pages highlights the activities of a pair of fluffy cartoon chickens, who could be dancing, munching on snacks, outrunning an aggressive bee, or even going on a date. Rhyming descriptions tell the story, which are punctuated by a funny "Bakk Baba Bakk Baba Bakk Bakk Bakk" refrain that, if delivered with gusto, will capture the attention and amusement of young listeners during a read-aloud. Rhyming, cadence, numbers, and counting are all there to build young ideas and reinforce familiarity with such concepts.

My boys would have loved this book when they were small, and I would have been clucking and "Baba-Bakking" until I couldn't possibly have "baba-ed" out another "bakk" to save my life. I recommend CHICKEN FUN for reading aloud and sharing with the youngest readers and listeners among us at home, in the classroom, or in afterschool programs.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy through RABT Book Tours and PR.

As Texas Home Prices Go Up, It Might Be a Good Time to Remodel

Culver Public Relations — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 16:16:19 Z

If youve been browsing real estate listings lately and felt your jaw drop, youre not alone.

Home prices across Texas have started to level out, but they are still sitting higher than what most people would call a great deal. And while we all love an upgrade, paying more for less space is not exactly the dream when you are trying to find your next home.

Here is the good news. You may not need to move at all to get the home you have been dreaming about.

Remodeling your current space can give you the lifestyle upgrade you want without bidding wars, packing boxes, or losing out to another offer at the last minute.

Lets break down why remodeling might be one of the smartest financial and emotional decisions you can make this year.

Over the past few years, home prices across Texas have climbed significantly. Even with some recent cooling, buying a new home is still far more expensive than it was just a short time ago.

When you combine higher interest rates, limited inventory, and strong competition, it creates a challenging environment for buyers. A home that might have cost $450,000 a few years ago could now be closer to $600,000, often with fewer updates or less space.

That is not just frustrating. It can feel discouraging.

Buying vs. remodeling: where does your money go?

It is easy to assume moving is the best way to get what you want. But the hidden costs add up quickly:

Closing costs, often 3 to 6 percent of the purchase price
Real estate commissions
Moving expenses
Inspections and appraisals
Immediate repairs or updates in the new home

And that does not even account for the emotional side of leaving a home filled with memories.

With remodeling, those same dollars go directly into your own space. Instead of spending tens of thousands just to move, you can invest in a kitchen you love, a bathroom that feels like a retreat, or storage that actually works for your life.

When you buy a new home, there is almost always compromise. The layout may not flow quite right. The finishes may not match your style. You may find yourself planning renovations before you even unpack.

Remodeling flips that dynamic.

You choose the materials, the layout, and the details. You can create a kitchen that functions the way you cook, add storage where you need it, or design a space that truly reflects your style. It is about building a home that fits your life, not adjusting your life to fit the home.

Remodeling is not just about how your home looks and feels today. It can also be a smart long-term investment.

Updates like kitchen and bathroom renovations or opening up living spaces can increase your homes value and appeal. If you decide to sell in the future, buyers are often drawn to homes that feel updated and move-in ready.

In a competitive market, that can make a meaningful difference.

Moving can be overwhelming. Between searching for the right home, handling paperwork, coordinating timelines, and physically relocating, it can quickly become exhausting.

Remodeling is still a process, but it is one you can manage with the right team. You get to stay in the neighborhood you love, keep your daily routines, and avoid the disruption that comes with starting over somewhere new.

Instead of leaving behind what works, you improve what does not.

When compared to todays housing market and the cost of moving, remodeling is often the more cost-effective choice.