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Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit Texas Woman's University From l to r: TWU business college Dean Rama Yelkur, Merrilee Kick, TWU Chancellor Carine Feyten

Texas Woman’s University has received a record $30 million gift to support its college of business from teacher-turned-entrepreneur Merrilee Kick, a TWU alumna who is founder and CEO of the mega-beverage company, BuzzBallz.

“This gift affords us an opportunity to shine a huge light on the innovation and business acumen women bring to the table in our globally competitive economy,” Texas Woman’s Chancellor Carine Feyten said. “I am doubly pleased that this extraordinary gift comes from Merrilee, a shining example of our pioneering spirit and an alumna who has risen to the level of entrepreneurial titan.”

The announcement was made during a meeting of Texas Woman’s governing board, which approved a new name for the college of business in her honor on Friday, August. 9.

The gift will fund an institute focused on innovation and entrepreneurship, an endowed chair, and an entrepreneur-in-residence program, each of which will also bear Kick’s name. Additionally, the gift will fast-track plans to construct a new building for the college.  

“I am profoundly moved by Merrilee Kick’s exceptional generosity in making this gift and am thrilled that she shares our vision for elevating the college of business by educating primarily women in business and entrepreneurship,” said business college Dean Rama Yelkur. “The Merrilee Alexander Kick College of Business and Entrepreneurship will undoubtedly add greater value and visibility, significantly amplifying our mission and impact on the future of business education.”

The gift is the single largest ever given to Texas Woman’s and comes a little more than a year after the Dallas-based Doswell Foundation gave a then-record gift of $15 million to the university to establish an aviation program, which begins classes this fall.

Kick’s $30 million gift also pushed the university over its Dream Big comprehensive campaign goal of $125 million nearly two years before it is scheduled to end. TWU plans to dream even bigger throughout the remainder of the campaign, focusing on securing support for high-priority initiatives including health sciences, athletics and the Dallas campus expansion.

A former teacher at Plano West Senior High School, Kick earned her MBA from Texas Woman’s in 2009. Her master’s degree thesis was the basis for the business plan that led to the creation of Carrollton-based BuzzBallz/Southern Champion, which became the only woman-owned distillery/winery/brewery combo in the United States when it launched later that year.

“My MBA from TWU enabled me to write a solid business plan for what became BuzzBallz, a billion-dollar company,” Kick said. “As a former educator and child of educators, teaching the next generation is important for our future. As my parents said, ‘A good teacher makes a difference.’ I have had some good teachers — and parents — who really cared about me and my success, and I am committed to make that happen for others, to make the world a better place.”

BuzzBallz eventually grew into a thriving business, largely on the stellar success of its sphere-shaped shatter-resistant containers, which became a signature of the company’s pre-mixed cocktail product line.

Kick sold the company in May to Louisiana-based Sazerac, the world’s largest privately held spirits company, and remains BuzzBallz CEO.

About Texas Woman’s University

Texas Woman’s University is the nation’s largest woman-focused university with campuses in Denton, Dallas and Houston. Founded in 1901, Texas Woman’s has built a reputation on contributions in nursing, healthcare, education, the arts and sciences, and business. TWU’s inclusive culture prioritizes experiential learning, leadership, service, discovery and health and wellbeing, and national media have recognized the university as a top college for student-parents, veterans and social mobility. 

About BuzzBallz/Southern Champion

The BuzzBallz/Southern Champion mission is to create fun, innovative cocktails for people to enjoy around the world with a vision to reinvent happy hour.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit NAMI North Texas

On Saturday, May 18, 2024, the community gathered at Riders Field in Frisco for the largest fundraising event of the year for NAMI North Texas, NAMIWalks 2024. This year’s theme, “I AM NAMIWALKS,” perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the event, which raised over $125,000 with 800 people attending in person and more than 1,200 total registrants.

The day was filled with fun and uplifting activities, including a resource fair, free Kona Ice for kids, a “Why I Walk” story station, and various activities for children. The pet-friendly event also welcomed lots of wagging tails, adding to the atmosphere. Walkers who raised $100 or more were rewarded with a NAMIWalks North Texas event t-shirt and other recognition gifts.

This event was made possible by the generous support of several sponsors, including Denny’s, Texas Health Behavioral Health, Julie and Pierce Noble, Pillar Clinical Research, Carrollton Springs/Well Bridge Health Care/Collin Springs, Medical City Green Oaks Hospital/Medical City Behavioral Health McKinney, Medical City Mental Health & Wellness Center/Frisco, Teva, West Coast University, Connections Wellness Group, Neurocrine Biosciences, and NBC 5 / Telemundo 39. NAMI North Texas was honored to have Brittney Johnson, the Emmy Award-winning co-anchor of NBC 5 News at 10 p.m., serve as the honorary chair for this year’s NAMIWalks North Texas.

“This year’s NAMIWalks North Texas was truly a remarkable event,” said Kasey Smith, Interim Executive Director of NAMI North Texas. “We are incredibly grateful to our supporters, sponsors, staff, and volunteers who made this day possible. Your dedication and enthusiasm help us raise awareness, stop the stigma surrounding mental health, and celebrate the journey of mental health recovery. Together, we are building a community of hope and resilience.”

NAMIWalks North Texas not only raises vital funds but also celebrates mental health recovery, honors those who have lost their lives to mental health conditions, and raises awareness to stop the stigma surrounding mental health.

Founded in 1982, NAMI North Texas, a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible nonprofit organization, advocates for equitable access to mental health services, treatment, supports and research and is steadfast in its commitment to raise awareness and build a community of hope for all of those in need. Serving Dallas, Collin, Denton, and Rockwall counties, NAMI North Texas provides essential and free education, advocacy and support group programs. For more information, visit www.naminorthtexas.org. 

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit Texas Woman's University Texas Woman's University's inaugural Houston campus president, Monica G. Williams, PhD.

Texas Woman’s 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 university’s values-based strategic plan.

Additionally, Williams taught English in the Houston Independent School District, served as the inaugural director of Houston’s 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 Woman’s 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 Woman’s is a key contributor to the higher education landscape in Houston.

“Texas Woman’s 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 Woman’s 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 nation’s 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 campus’s 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 bachelor’s degree in Journalism/English and a master’s 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 Woman’s 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.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo courtesy of Kasey Smith

NAMI North Texas, a chartered affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and NAMI Texas, announces a leadership change with an interim executive director.   

In order to ensure a seamless transition as the Board determines the long-term plan for this position, the nonprofit invited current staff member Kasey Smith, the Director of Community Partnerships, to step in as Interim Executive Director, effective immediately.

Smith is ideal to serve in this capacity, not only because of her experience with the NAMI North Texas office, but also due to her commitment to the NAMI community, expertise in nonprofit organizations, and Master’s of Business Administration. Smith will immediately begin to oversee all of the work of the NAMI North Texas office and work closely with the Board and staff on fulfilling the Interim Executive Director’s responsibilities.

“We are thrilled to have Kasey Smith step into the role of Interim Executive Director,” said Dr. Joseph Guillory, President of the NAMI North Texas Board and professor at the University of Texas at Southwestern. “Her dedication to our mission, combined with her extensive experience and leadership skills, makes her the perfect person to guide our organization through this transition period.”

NAMI North Texas is grateful to have Kasey’s wealth of experience, education, and vision. Along with the capable and committed support of the staff, the work of NAMI North Texas will not only continue but will flourish as the nonprofit moves into the future.

Founded in 1982, NAMI North Texas, a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible nonprofit organization, advocates for equitable access to mental health services, treatment, supports and research and is steadfast in its commitment to raise awareness and build a community of hope for all of those in need. Serving Dallas, Collin, Denton, and Rockwall counties, NAMI North Texas provides essential and free education, advocacy and support group programs. For more information, visit www.naminorthtexas.org.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit: Enchant Christmas, LLC

North Texas, prepare for your most captivating holiday season event to date. Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages and Enchant Christmas are excited to introduce Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas, a festive new immersive holiday light experience that will transport guests to a world of Christmas magic. With larger-than-life light sculptures, falling snow, ice skating, visits with Santa, loads of tasty hot cocoa, and more, Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas brings to life treasured holiday traditions during this beloved time of year.

Now through July 31 – secure the lowest prices on tickets without having to know what date you plan to attend the event until later this season with the Flex Ticket. On sale now with General Admission Adult tickets starting at just $20,  these ticket prices are limited and first-come, first-served, going up with demand. Book today at ClassicChristmas.com. 

“Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas will bring Real Magic to a new family tradition during the holidays,” said Derek Alexander, VP of Commercial & Digital, Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages. “We are proud to bring this incredible experience to the local communities in which we serve.”

Debuting November 22 and running through December 29, 2024 at Choctaw Stadium, Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas combines the magic of Coca-Cola with the holiday expertise of Enchant, the award-winning creators of the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze. This festive event is filled with the timeless traditions that make the holiday season special. Holiday revelers can look forward to an array of joyful activities and cherished experiences, ensuring a season full of happiness and wonder, including:

  • Larger-Than-Life Light Display – Delight in 55,000 square feet of dazzling light sculptures, featuring exciting custom and interactive Coca-Cola-inspired displays.
  • Market Square – Taste seasonal delights and shop for holiday gifts from a local assortment of vendors showcasing their wares. Vendor applications are still being accepted atClassicChristmas.com.
  • Ice Skating: skate amidst the lights with those you love - this is a unique ice skating experience.
  • Snow Slide: Hop on an inner tube and glide down the thrilling Classic Christmas Snow Slide.
  • Seasonal Food and Beverage – Enjoy holiday-themed food and drinks that are sure to please everyone
  • Live Entertainment – Guests will get into the spirit with nightly caroling throughout the venue and more local, seasonal artist features.
  • Visit with Santa – Santa will take photos in his workshop – your holiday photo dream come true!
  • Book A Holiday Party - From holiday gatherings to birthdays and proposals to office parties, Classic Christmas is your celebration destination this holiday season - groups 10+ get access to special pricing. classicchristmas.com/book-a-party

Look forward to more event features to be announced in the coming months.

GROUP TICKETS & PRIVATE EVENTS AT CLASSIC CHRISTMAS

Transport your holiday celebration to the magically delightful Classic Christmas with a custom group ticket package. From small group events (10-25 tickets) to corporate holiday parties of small, medium, or large scale, there is an option for you at Classic Christmas. For all group opportunities, discounts, and benefits visit classicchristmas.com/book-a-party.

GET INVOLVED WITH CLASSIC CHRISTMAS

Magical memories await during the 2024 Classic Christmas event season. Whether you’re an artisan or culinary vendor interested in our vibrant Market Square, someone seeking seasonal employment during the holiday season, a brand ambassador, a prospective marketing partner, or a member of the press, we are eager to hear from you. For more information visit us classicchristmas.com/get-involved.

ABOUT COCA-COLA SOUTHWEST BEVERAGES

Dallas-based Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages (CCSWB), a company of Arca Continental, is one of the largest Coca-Cola bottlers in the United States. CCSWB produces, markets, and distributes Coca-Cola brands throughout Texas and parts of New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. The company employs more than 8,500 associates who operate 7 production plants and 37 distribution facilities, serving more than 31 million consumers. Headquartered in Monterrey, Mexico, Arca Continental is one of the largest Coca-Cola bottlers in the world, with an outstanding history spanning more than 91 years. Within its Coca-Cola franchise, Arca Continental serves more than 118 million consumers in Mexico, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, and the Southwestern U.S. Arca Continental also produces and markets snacks under the brand names Wise in the U.S., Bokados in Mexico and Inalecsa in Ecuador. For more information, visitwww.cocacolaswb.com andwww.arcacontal.com.

ABOUT ENCHANT CHRISTMAS

Enchant is the world’s largest holiday light event experience encompassing over 10 acres of festive programming inclusive of a dazzling installation of larger-than-life, custom designed, and story-driven light sculptures. Produced on the playing fields of major league sports stadiums and iconic outdoor spaces, the event offers an ice-skating trail, live entertainment, interactive games, Santa visits and a charming holiday marketplace, entertainment, and more. Founded in 2016 by Canadian entrepreneur Kevin Johnston, Enchant has since delighted millions of guests in major cities in the U.S. and Canada. For more details: enchantchristmas.com

WHEN:

November 22-December 29, 2024

WHERE:

Choctaw Stadium

1000 Ballpark Way

Arlington, TX 76011

TICKETS:

Starting at $20 - on sale now

Sign up for first access at ClassicChristmas.com >>

CONNECT WITH CLASSIC CHRISTMAS

Get special ticket offers, BTS content, holiday tradition tips and tricks, and more at ClassicChristmas.com >>

Instagram >>

Facebook >>

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit Peterson Management Group

Looking for authentic dishes made from Hatch chile peppers grown in New Mexico? Blue Goose Cantina is serving up fan favorite dishes and all-new items during its 22nd Annual Hatch Chile Fest once the harvest begins. Not for the faint of heart, the excitement for the smoky, green peppers is for a limited time only. Hatch chile season and the Goose’s special menu typically run from the beginning of August into September, depending on the weather. Once the spicy Hatch chile harvest has ended, Blue Goose Cantina ends its menu until next year.

This year, there are eight ways to get your hatch fix at any of the seven Blue Goose locations in Frisco, Plano, Highland Village, McKinney, Grapevine, Fort Worth, and Grand Prairie.

HATCH QUESO  $9

Fresh roasted Hatch chiles, blended with cheese and spices to give this white queso a spicy kick! Make it Queso Birria +$2

AGUACHILE AVOCADO TOSTADA  $13 – New!

A crispy round corn tortilla topped with guacamole, and a Hatch pepper & lime juice marinated shrimp ceviche. Garnished with cucumber, and red onions.

HATCH PULLED CHICKEN ENCHILADAS  $15

Two chicken enchiladas topped with your choice of spicy Hatch salsa or Hatch queso. Served with Spanish rice and charro beans.

HATCH BIRRIA BURRITO  $15

A large flour tortilla filled with Birria, roasted Hatch chiles, Jack cheese, onion and cilantro, topped with Hatch queso and Hatch salsa. Served with spicy Hatch pineapple Pico de Gallo, Spanish rice and consommé.

HATCH STREET TACOS  $14

Four house made corn tortilla street tacos topped with fajita chicken (2), and fajita beef (2), spicy Hatch pineapple Pico de Gallo, and queso fresco. Served with Hatch salsa.

BLUE GOOSE CANTINA’S FAMOUS HATCH MARGARITA  $12

SPICY Hatch chile pepper infused tequila shaken with fresh lime juice and agave nectar.

WATERMELON HATCH MARGARITA $13  – New!

Watermelon and Hatch chile pepper infused tequila blended with agave and fresh lime juice.

HATCH BENEDICT  $12 – New!

Two sopes topped with refried beans, chorizo, poached eggs, Hatch salsa, sour cream, queso fresco and cilantro. Served with brunch potatoes. Only available during Saturday and Sunday brunch, 10am to 3pm.

Established in 1984, Blue Goose Cantina brings together fantastic made-from-scratch Mexican food, legendary cocktails, top-notch service, a fun atmosphere, and a kick-ass attitude. A division of Peterson Management Group, a family-owned and operated restaurant management company, For more information, including menu and locations, visit BlueGooseCantina.com.

ABOUT PETERSON MANAGEMENT GROUP

Peterson Management Group is a family-owned and operated restaurant management company with 12 restaurants located across North Texas. Founded by Bob Peterson and Scott Holyfield, two guys with larger-than-life personalities, it all started in 1983 with eclectic seafood shack restaurants, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar. They are the best places in North Texas to get raw oysters, shrimp, catfish, crab legs, po'boy boy sandwiches, a nice cold beer, and tasty crawfish when in season. In addition to Aw Shucks and Big Shucks, Peterson Management Group opened Blue Goose Cantina in 1984, where fantastic made-from-scratch Mexican food, legendary cocktails, top-notch service, a fun atmosphere and a kick-ass attitude come together. The restaurant chain has repeatedly been voted the best in North Texas for its winning combination of food, fun, and signature margaritas. Today, Nick Peterson, son of Bob, leads the family business, serving as its CEO. For more information, visit PetersonManagementGroup.net.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit Peterson Management Group

Blue Goose Cantina announces the arrival of its summer specials, guaranteed to tantalize taste buds and keep you refreshed all season long! From now until July 31, dive into a fiesta of flavor at any of the Goose’s seven locations in Frisco, Plano, Highland Village, McKinney, Grapevine, Fort Worth, and Grand Prairie.

Indulge in Flavorful Entrees:

  • Tacos Al Pastor: Experience a burst of taste with our street corn tortillas loaded with jack cheese, adobo-marinated pork, grilled pineapple, onion, cilantro, and a spicy cremosa drizzle. ($14)
  • Shrimp Tacos: Get hooked on our corn tortillas packed with adobo-seasoned shrimp, slaw, corn, avocado slices, and a chipotle mayo drizzle. ($14)
  • Huaraches: Transport your taste buds to Mexico with our traditional masa tortilla topped with beans, your choice of chorizo or pork al pastor, lettuce, pico, sour cream, and queso fresco. ($14)

Cool Off with Creative Cocktails:

  • Kiwi Cucumber Margarita: Dive into a refreshing fusion of Corazon Blanco tequila, agave, kiwi, lime juice, and fresh cucumber. In May, the margarita was named Best Margarita during the Dallas Margarita Festival. ($12)

Weekend Brunch Plans: (Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM)

  • Mexican Benedict: Treat yourself to two sopes topped with refried beans, chorizo, poached eggs, salsa verde, sour cream, queso fresco, and cilantro. Served with brunch potatoes. ($12)

Established in 1984, Blue Goose Cantina brings together fantastic made-from-scratch Mexican food, legendary cocktails, top-notch service, a fun atmosphere, and a kick-ass attitude. A division of Peterson Management Group, a family-owned and operated restaurant management company, For more information, including menu and locations, visit BlueGooseCantina.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and promotions. #bluegoosecantina

 

ABOUT PETERSON MANAGEMENT GROUP

Peterson Management Group is a family-owned and operated restaurant management company with 12 restaurants located across North Texas. Founded by Bob Peterson and Scott Holyfield, two guys with larger-than-life personalities, it all started in 1983 with eclectic seafood shack restaurants, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar. They are the best places in North Texas to get raw oysters, shrimp, catfish, crab legs, po'boy boy sandwiches, a nice cold beer, and  tasty crawfish when in season. In addition to Aw Shucks and Big Shucks, Peterson Management Group opened Blue Goose Cantina in 1984, where fantastic made-from-scratch Mexican food, legendary cocktails, top-notch service, a fun atmosphere and a kick-ass attitude come together. The restaurant chain has repeatedly been voted the best in North Texas for its winning combination of food, fun, and signature margaritas. Today, Nick Peterson, son of Bob, leads the family business, serving as its CEO. For more information, visit PetersonManagementGroup.net.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo courtesy of Danny Campbell Photography

The sixth annual Signature Event, produced by Artists and Musicians in Recovery, returns on Friday, June 7th from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m., bringing with it music, art, and culture that is fun for the entire family and that special circle of friends. To be held at Unity of Dallas, located at 6525 Forest Lane in Dallas, Signature is a one-of-a-kind event that celebrates artists and musicians in recovery. It’s a big party that includes art exhibits and live music by local artists in popular genres such as rock, blues, alternative, and pop. For those who love to nosh, Signature will have food trucks including Easy Slider & Veggie with its gourmet sliders and King Kups, specializing in Cali-Mex street food and desserts. The event is free to attend, thanks to generous sponsors.

Launched in 2018, the Signature Event began with more than 450 people in attendance and has grown since then. It is the first ever event that showcases talents of artists and musicians to further their recovery from substance abuse and other behavioral health issues. Signature inspires the community to embrace the arts as effective tools for sustained recovery.

Signature is important to the community because the struggle of artists and musicians is real, and so is recovery. They represent a unique population. Many artists and musicians struggle with drugs, alcohol, and other problematic behaviors. Some factors that make it especially challenging for this population to recover include the artists’ lifestyle (schedule, environment and sporadic work), the use of chemicals to create a sense of heightened creativity which can result in impaired functioning, travel and work schedules which can hinder meaningful relationships, financial concerns, and the pressures of appearance, praise and criticism.

"We have gathered amazing artists and musicians to share their beautiful creations,” states Betty Ewing Dicken, founder of Artists and Musicians in Recovery and the creator of Signature. “We all know of talented creative souls who have lost the substance abuse or mental health battles. Many have recovered and courageously use their passions and talents to recover and help others. At Signature, you'll be amazed by the creative talents!" 

To learn more Artists and Musicians in Recovery, a 501(c)3 foundation, and their annual Signature Event, visit artsrecovery.org. Join the conversation on Facebook (@ArtsRecovery) and follow Artists and Musicians in Recovery on Instagram (@ArtsRecovery).

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit: Texas Woman's University Sitting, left to right: Texas Woman’s University Regent Chair Stacie McDavid, Chancellor Carine Feyten, Mike A. Myers, Henry “Hank” Fink (president of Johanniter Humanitarian Group of Texas), Dr. Jyutika Mehta (Director of the Mike A. Myers Stroke Center). Standing, left to right: Monica Christopher (TWU Dallas president), Regent Jill Jester, Regent Kathleen Wu, Regent Janelle Shepard, Regent Bob Hyde, Student Regent Jianna Covarelli, Regent Ellen Amirkhan, Regent Bernadette Coleman, and Regent Mary Wilson.

Dallas businessman and philanthropist Mike A. Myers has given a $2 million gift to Texas Woman’s stroke center to be used to expand research, patient and family services, and inter-professional training opportunities.

In recognition of the Myers gift, the Texas Woman’s University System Board of Regents on Friday renamed the center the Mike A. Myers Stroke Center.

“This gift is truly transformative,” said Jyutika Mehta, PhD, the Stroke Center’s director. “We will be able to grow significantly and support many more individuals and families who need neuro-rehabilitative support, assist those from bilingual backgrounds and continue to support those who are uninsured and underinsured. Additionally, this will allow the center to train many more students in cutting-edge, clinical and research-based protocols.”

The center, established in 1992 by Texas Woman’s University to provide specialized treatment for patients who experience a stroke or head injury, also conducts research and training for TWU graduate students. The center does not charge patients and is funded primarily through grants and contributions.

The gift will be used to support a variety of operations, including research and patient services, which includes adding bilingual clinicians and programming and expanding services to include hearing assessments and treatment directed at improving feeding and swallowing.

“This extraordinary center is a lifeline to the Dallas community and provides a critical service to so many patients who otherwise may not be able to afford this level of treatment. It is personally gratifying to see centers such as these improve the lives of others,” Myers said.

Myers, a successful real estate developer and banker, has been a longtime philanthropist and has given generously to many higher education institutions across Texas.

“Mike Myers has a generous spirit and has dedicated his life to improving lives and strengthening communities. His gift today further demonstrates his desire to see others soar,” TWU System Board of Regents Chair Stacie McDavid said. “On behalf of the board of regents, we are honored to name the center the Mike A. Myers Stroke Center.”

Since 2020, Myers has supported Johanniter Humanitarian Group (JHG) of Texas, an organization led by President Henry "Hank" Fink. Together, JHG Texas and the Mike A. Myers Foundation have provided more than 50 annual scholarships for undergraduate nursing students and established the Myers-JHG Tutoring and Academic Support Center at TWU’s Dallas campus.

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Photo credit Franz Szony

Dallas Pride is proud to announce that acclaimed actor, singer and LGBTQ+ advocate Billy Porter has been named its first-ever Honorary Grand Marshal of the Dallas Pride Parade, set to step off in Fair Park on June 2. 

Porter, a trailblazer in the entertainment industry and an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, has captivated audiences worldwide with his remarkable talent and unwavering commitment to inclusivity and equality. With a career spanning decades, Porter has earned critical acclaim and been awarded  for his roles on stage and screen including an EMMY®, GRAMMY® and two Tony Awards, winning his first Tony for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance as Lola in "Kinky Boots.” 

In addition to his contributions to the arts, Porter has used his platform to advocate for marginalized communities, championing LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice and gender equality. His unapologetic celebration of individuality has made him a beloved icon and an inspiration to millions around the globe. Porter will receive the Isabelle Stevenson Tony Award this year, his third, recognizing his dedication as an activist and spokesperson for the LGBTQ+ communities including his work for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and the Entertainment Community Fund, among others.

“We are thrilled to welcome Billy Porter to Dallas Pride,” said Sherrell Cross, executive director of Dallas Pride. “He symbolized the spirit of unity, pride and resilience within the LGBTQ+ community, and will undoubtedly electrify audiences with his spirit and sparkle.”

The Dallas Pride Parade, one of the largest LGBTQ+ pride events in Texas, attracts thousands of participants and spectators each year, uniting people from all walks of life in a vibrant celebration of diversity and acceptance. 

Weekend of Activities

Dallas Pride kicks off on Saturday, June 1, with the Dallas Pride Music Festival from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and the Dallas Pride Festival & Parade on Sunday, June 2, at 10 a.m. with a pre-parade festival and activities before the parade begins at 2 p.m. Vendors will have refreshments, DJs will spin, and attendees can engage in Teen Pride and the Family Pride Zone, in addition to enjoying shopping and other fun. The parade is a rainbow feast for the eyes, with outrageous costumes, inventive floats, bands, groups and more marching in support of the LGBTQ+ community in a mile-long event featuring more than 150 parade entries. Admission for the Dallas Pride Parade is free.

Tickets are on sale now for the Dallas Pride Music Festival on Saturday, June 1, which will feature musical headliners CeCe Peniston and Ha Sizzle. A variety of musical and dance performances on multiple indoor and outdoor stages will include singer Lardi B, DJ Sedrick, and other talented entertainers that keep the festivities going. Morphine Love Dion, a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Aquaria, season 10 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, will be featured performers who will also wow the crowds at the Dallas Pride Music Festival. Tickets are $10 (+ services fees); admission for children 12 and under is complimentary. To get your tickets, visit dallaspride.org.

The Dallas Pride Music Festival features more than 200 vendors, who will have booths to see and shop at the festival. Family Pride Zone, an area designed for families, will feature several bounce houses, face painting, entertainment for the kids and the Pride Train ride in the Automobile Building at Fair Park. The festival also includes Teen Pride, which fosters a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ youth ages 13 to 19 and their friends to enjoy live entertainment from artists and DJs, and other age-appropriate activities. Local animal rescue groups will also be on-site for guests to meet a possible new furry family member. 

About Dallas Pride

The mission of Dallas Pride is to strengthen, support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. By prioritizing inclusiveness, Dallas Pride fosters a feeling of belonging for everyone from youth to seniors by creating events, initiatives and programs that foster connections between members of the community, its allies and its supporters.

Follow @DallasPride on Facebook, @DallasPrideOfficial on Instagram, @DallasPrideOrg on Twitter, or via the organization’s website, www.DallasPride.org, for all the tea.