Staff & Reader Submitted

BOOK REVIEW: BURNED OUT by Iris Waichler, MSW

KAREN SIDDALL — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 13:32:33 Z

Burned Out

by Iris Waichler, MSW

An easy-to-understand yet comprehensive discussion of how the job affects first responders and their families.

Burned Out by Iris Waichler, MSW, is a comprehensive presentation on how first responders' jobs affect their physical and mental health, their relationships with family and friends, how to recognize the warning signs of trauma, and what resources and treatment are available to help. While delving deeply into the different forms trauma can take, the discussion is engaging and easy to understand, while still including footnoted citations for further reading for those who want to focus on a particular topic.

Sprinkled throughout are the words of the first responders themselves- the firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs- that give testimony to the validity of the wear and tear and resulting damage their life of service can cause, the impacts of which may be mitigated by the same type of pre-planning and preparation for such if addressed prior to their taking up of their turnout or latex gloves. Clear, comprehensive communication with family members and supportive friends before, during, and after hard shifts appears to be key to handling potential trauma. The book also recognizes and discusses generational differences in the workplace that can lead to tension or to responders not seeking help when they need it. A generational aspect I found particularly interesting was how many first responders' children followed in their parents' footsteps when choosing their own career.

I recommend BURNED OUT to first responders and their family members, especially those just entering their chosen career field.

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

Texas A&M University College of Dentistry students sharpen their skills on dental mission trips

Stephanie Patrick — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 12:15:00 Z

A busy dental student scheduled to graduate next May, few would fault Mackenzie Kenzie Bankes for heading to Jamaica for a few lazy days to enjoy sandy beaches and misty mountains. But those and even dances to the Caribbean islands famous reggae beats, had to wait.

Bankes and fellow Texas A&M University College of Dentistry students traveled Aug. 1-8 on a dental mission trip to St. Elizabeth Parish and its Helping Hand Dental Clinic in the southwestern part of the country. Working with the nonprofit Christian Medical & Dental Association, they provided oral hygiene education, cleanings, fillings and tooth extractions to more than 600 underserved residents rebuilding after Hurricane Melissa last year.

We worked long days in a clinic without air conditioning, but the opportunity to bring relief, healing and hope made every challenge worthwhile, she said.

The 16 dental students and three dental hygiene students werent alone in their humanitarian efforts. Several groups of A&M Dentistry students were globetrotting this summer with both dentistry skills and benevolent hearts.

Mexican mission of compassion

Ten A&M Dentistry students began their summer academic break with a journey May 17-23 to Mexico to provide fillings, crowns, bridges, extractions and other care to residents in areas around Puebla, Mexico. Hosted by Wehrle Implant Immersion Center, they screened applicants in the first few days; accepted patients were shuttled days later to Wehrles 30,000-square-foot dental facility in Puebla for treatment.

The center milled everything needed, and fourth-year dental student Heydi Vanegas delivered her first dental bridge to a patient who appreciated the restored smile.

I gained so much confidence in just a week, Vanegas said. There were other volunteer dentists who provided us with helpful lectures and tips in the clinic, which made the learning experience extremely immersive.

She estimated about 200 patients were treated during the mission trip.

Every day, I was reminded of why I chose this profession and how grateful I am to have the opportunity to use my career to serve others, Vanegas said. (The experiences) reaffirmed my passion for dentistry and my commitment to giving back to communities that need it most.

She hopes to participate in mission trips to Honduras and Guatemala, her parents native countries, in the future.

Dr. Michael Wehrle, Baylor College of Dentistry Class of 1989, said the first mission trip was three years ago with Louisiana State University Health Science Center School of Dentistry students. A&M Dentistry students have participated twice.

We always go to the same place, since we built the hotel, lab and dental office just for this purpose, said Wehrle, who has traveled to Mexico on missions since 2002 and on missions in Honduras years earlier.

The treatment center is modern and technologically advanced, but the mission trip had many less-than-luxurious times. A house served as the volunteers main location those first few days and a basketball court substituted as a screening center, which meant the group had limited space and equipment. They also worked long hours and encountered some communication barriers; however, people waited patiently each day, said fourth-year dental student Van Nguyen, who, like Bankes, has participated in several dental mission trips.

The Mexican mission also includes a bootcamp-style curriculum, referred to as Wehrle Implant Immersion Course. The center was built in 2012.

This experience reminded me that being a good dentist is not only about clinical skills, but also about being able to communicate and connect with patients, Nguyen said. I was touched by how friendly and welcoming everyone was, and I left determined to improve my Spanish so I can better serve Spanish-speaking patients in the future.

Many people seeking care had multiple cavities, severe periodontal disease or needed extractions of most or all their teeth. She and fellow fourth-year dental student Karina Estrada assisted with full-mouth extractions in the clinic so patients could receive complete dentures the same day.

Seeing the extent of their dental needs (reinforced) how important access to dental care is and strengthened my commitment to community service, Nguyen said.

The next mission is May 16-22. Twenty A&M Dentistry students may attend.

The instructors and I take a special joy in watching the students grow so much during just one week, Wehrle said.

Providing meaningful care in the Philippines

Fourth-year dental student Omar Ali finished his summer semester July 24, only hours before heading to the Philippines as part of the newly formed Act Asia mission created by A&M Dentistry students, faculty and alumni. The group arrived in rural Buug a day late after flight delays but immediately began seeing patients about 300 people were waiting.

We worked through sunset, providing as much care as we could before finally closing for the day, Ali wrote in an account of the trip. We had understood before the trip that the dental need in Buug was significant; but seeing it firsthand was different. Many of the patients we screened had heavy calculus, extensive decay, and multiple teeth that could no longer be restored.

Because of limited time and equipment challenges, group members limited services to cleanings, fillings, extractions and oral health education.

Most patients needed more than one of them, often involving several teeth, wrote Ali, who traveled to Gitega, Burundi, on a similar mission in 2025. After discussing their most urgent needs, we allowed patients to help decide which treatment would be most meaningful to them that day.

Following a meeting with Mayor Dionesia Lagas and city staff the next day, A&M Dentistry students and faculty arrived at the clinic to find about 300 people waiting outside many gathering before 8 a.m. because news of the dental teams arrival had spread via Facebook.

Our team worked continuously and treated more than 100 patients that day, Ali wrote. Even so, nearly 200 others had to be asked to return the following morning. Treating that many people was an accomplishment, but the patients we could not reach made the scale of the need impossible to ignore.

In a call earlier this year for a global shift to environmentally friendly, less invasive and affordable oral healthcare, the World Health Organization reported tooth decay is the most common noncommunicable disease worldwide, affecting an estimated 2.7 billion people.

The demand for basic dental care globally isnt surprising to Dr. Jonathan Clemetson, clinical faculty in comprehensive dentistry at A&M Dentistry, a veteran of many mission trips in more than a decade.

He mentored the students during the Philippines mission trip and did the same during a trip to his native Jamaica in March. Planning for the Philippines mission trip began in the first quarter of the year, and students held fundraisers and solicited donations for their travel expenses.

Sadly, we can only take a small number of students due to costs, long travel and (the) logistics of just moving people around on the ground, Clemetson said.

He and A&M Dentistry students will return to the Philippines next summer and continue to receive numerous messages from Buug-area residents who werent treated but remain grateful for the groups efforts.

Bankes, whose first mission trip to Jamaica was last summer, said the mission trip experience is invaluable for all students.

Working in a setting with limited resources reminded me that dentistry is not always about having every tool or treatment option available, Bankes said. It is about using the knowledge and skills you have to provide the best, most appropriate care for each patient.

Weston and Collin County History

Tom Keener — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 18:30:00 Z

Mike Hill, City of Weston Alderman and & President of Weston Heritage Guild will present a history of Weston and its legacy at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, at the Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main. The city of Weston is the oldest city in Colling County, and in 1913, was a host to the first car race in Collin County. A longtime Weston resident, Mike has a keen interest in Collin County history. Sponsored by the Allen Heritage Guild, the program is free. Call 972-740-8017 for additional information.

AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: DOGGED PURSUIT (VERONICA KILDARE K-9 MYSTERY, #1) by Tracy Carter

KAREN SIDDALL — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:45:58 Z

Dogged Pursuit

Veronica Kildare K-9 Mystery, #1

Tracy Carter

Great start to this new K-9 mystery series!

Dogged Pursuit is the first novel in author Tracy Carters new Veronica Kildare K-9 Mystery series, and it is a wonderfully detailed mystery and a dog-filled and entertaining debut. A strong female protagonist and her much-loved, highly talented tracking dog lead readers through the mountainous terrain of the Colorado countryside on search-and-rescue missions, including one for a renowned scientist slated to testify in an upcoming, high-profile murder case.

I really enjoyed the characters introduced in the novel and look forward to seeing them again in future adventures, especially the main characters Veronica Kildare, her father, Bob, and their newly welcomed employee and friend, Michael Fletcher. Veronica has a tragic past, and her recent move to just outside Boulder, Colorado, is a life-saving second chance. Her backstory slowly unfolds over the course of the novel, starting with broad hints that kept me coming back to hear the rest of her story. Her decision to extend her new life to the orphan, Michael, and the scared little dog, Coco, was heartwarming and inspiring.

Of course, the story features a lot of dogs, and the relationship between Veronica and her rescue dog, Leda, is amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed the details of Ledas tracking and drug-detection sweeps, as well as the information about dog training and Veronicas fledgling business, Dogged Pursuit. I even liked hearing about Bobs articles and product testing!

The plot is intriguing and has several unique features, such as identifying the unusual helicopter seen flying over Rocky Mountain National Park early in the story. Missing witnesses have been the subject of many mysteries, but the author delivered fresh twists that made the story feel above and beyond the ordinary. I was engrossed watching it all unfold.

I experienced Dogged Pursuit as an audiobook narrated by new-to-me narrator Alyssa Baumann, and I was never disappointed. I thought she did a beautiful job, altering her voice to portray the different characters rather than doing a straight read-aloud of the material. The voices were consistent and recognizable for each character, and I especially thought her rendering of the male characters was convincing.

I recommend DOGGED PURSUIT to mystery series readers who enjoy dog-centric or dog-themed stories.

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

BOOK REVIEW: LAWYERS, DOGS, AND MONEY (VERONICA KILDARE K-9 MYSTERY, #2) by Tracy Carter

KAREN SIDDALL — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:54:15 Z

Lawyers, Dogs, and Money

Veronica Kildare K-9 Mystery, #2

Tracy Carter

While the author set the bar high with the series' excellent debut, she definitely met and surpassed it in this exciting follow-up.

Lawyers, Dogs, and Money is the second book in author Tracy Carter's marvelous working dog-centric series, the Veronica Kildare K-9 Mysteries, and continues the suspense-filled story of the title character and her canine partner, Leda, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever rescue. Carter set the bar high with the series' excellent debut, Dogged Pursuit, but she definitely met and surpassed it in this exciting follow-up.

The story unfolds from Veronica's point of view, and she is a calm and steady protagonist, although still healing from the past trauma of losing her fiancé, Zach, at the hands of a serial killer. Formerly a legal assistant in an Ohio district attorney's office, she relocated to Colorado to start over as a working dog trainer and handler far from the now-incarcerated murderer. She and Leda have gained renown as a successful team in search and rescue and drug detection in the Boulder area. Her narrative is told with a strong, confident voice, and she comes across as genuine, engaging, and relatable as she deals with her lingering grief and learns to let go of her lost love. She's always on the go, with numerous irons in the fire; however, she reacts authentically rather than super-humanly, knowing she needs regular rest and respite.

In addition to Veronica, several well-developed and engaging secondary characters are integral to her personal life and business operations, most notably her father, Bob Kildare, and her assistant trainer, Michael Fletcher, a young man she rescued from the streets of Denver in the previous book. I enjoy Michael's contribution to the story immensely and am delighted with his continued success in his studies and growth as a trainer and handler. However, I was completely charmed by Bob, with his unwavering support of his daughter, his skills in the kitchen, product demonstrations and reviews, and dogged investigatory computer research. Bob has been a widower long enough, and there is a hint of a romance in his future.

The book's opening sequence is attention-grabbing and exceptionally well done, absolutely setting the pace for what's yet to come. A central mystery unfolds, with a wide array of possible suspects and motives to investigate and rule out. Just when I felt I knew where the threat was coming from, new details emerged and sent the characters in an alternate direction. I thought that the author accurately depicted reality when the parties to the investigation were pulled away to work on other things and couldn't devote their 24/7 to the one case, as often happens in many mystery stories. The dog-training scenes were fascinating, informative, and entertaining, as were the interesting tidbits the characters shared about Kadri's birth country and the import/export business. The author uses the Colorado setting to advantage, painting vivid and enticing pictures throughout. I did have a very minor issue with Veronica's tendency to over-explain at times, using definitions that sounded like they came straight out of a dictionary; however, these were few and far between.

Even though this is the second book in the series, new readers shouldn't have any trouble catching up and enjoying the story. With its engaging characters, exciting plot, and non-stop action, I recommend LAWYERS, DOGS, AND MONEY to mystery readers, especially those who enjoy stories featuring working dogs, search and rescue, drug detection, or books set in Colorado.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from Reedsy Discovery.

Texas Womans, Bezos Academy Celebrate Opening of Largest Bezos Academy Preschool in Texas

Kathy Beazley — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:08:45 Z

Texas Womans University, Bezos Academy, the City of Denton and Texas Womens Foundation celebrated the opening of Bezos Academy Denton Wednesday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new $6 million preschool located on the Texas Womans University campus.

The six-classroom preschool at 1820 Frame St. is the largest Bezos Academy preschool in Texas and will provide full-day preschool at no cost to families for up to 120 children ages 3 to 5. The school officially opens to students Sept. 8.

Texas Womans University Chancellor and President Carine M. Feyten joined Bezos Academy Chief Learning Officer Dr. Brandi Kenner,Denton Mayor Chris Watts and Texas Womens Foundation President and CEO Karen Hughes White for remarks before participating in the ceremonial ribbon cutting. Following the ceremony, guests toured the new preschool.

Texas Womans has long recognized the financial hardships that many of our student-parents face, particularly when it comes to childcare, and for them this academy is a true gamechanger, said TWU Chancellor Carine Feyten. Texas Womans, Bezos Academy and the City of Denton have a shared mission to develop lifelong learners and leaders by increasing educational access and this academy will help us achieve that.

The preschool was constructed on university-owned land through a partnership involving Texas Womans University, Bezos Academy and the City of Denton. The city contributed $1.5 million toward the $6 million project.

Bezos Academy Denton will offer full-day, Montessori-inspired preschool at no cost to families served, through fully funded scholarships. Meals, educational materials and other programming also are provided at no cost. Twenty percent of the preschools seats are reserved for children of TWU students, faculty and staff, with the remaining 80% available to families in the surrounding community.

"When parents know their children are safe, supported, and learning, they're able to focus on goals of their own, whether that's pursuing a degree, building a career, or creating new opportunities for their family, shared Dr. Brandi Kenner, Chief Learning Officer at Bezos Academy. Thank you to Texas Woman's University, the City of Denton, and Texas Women's Foundation for showing what's possible when a community comes together to remove barriers and expand opportunities for children and families. We can't wait to open our doors."

The opening comes at a time when the affordability and availability of quality child care continue to present challenges for Texas families. Child care in Texas costs approximately $11,000 annually, an amount comparable to state college tuition, according to Texas Womens Foundation. In Dallas County, child care costs represent approximately 12.5% of median family income.

The economic implications extend beyond individual families. Texas Womens Foundation estimates that parents missing work because of inadequate access to child care and preschool could result in cumulative economic losses of $562 million to $859 million in Dallas County and $5.5 billion to $8.3 billion statewide over the next decade.

During Wednesdays ceremony, Hughes White addressed the importance of access to child care for Texas families and findings from Texas Womens Foundations Addressing the Texas Childcare Crisis research, while Watts spoke about the City of Dentons partnership and support for the project. Kenner discussed Bezos Academys mission, curriculum and approach to early childhood education.

More than 90% of a childs brain development occurs before age 5, making early childhood a critical period for learning and development. High-quality preschool can help children establish foundational language, literacy, math and social-emotional skills that support their transition to kindergarten and elementary school.

Bezos Academy Denton is fully enrolled for fall 2026 following a lottery process. Families interested in future enrollment opportunities and eligibility information can visit https://bezosacademy.org/eligibility/.

With the Denton location, Bezos Academy will operate 12 schools across Texas this fall, including six in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, five in the greater Houston area and one in San Antonio.

MORE INFORMATION:

https://bezosacademy.org/schools/denton-tx/

940.283.8008 or denton@bezosacademy.org

About Texas Womans University:

Texas Womans University is the nations largest woman-focused university system with campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston. Founded in 1901, TWU has built a reputation on contributions in nursing, healthcare, education, the arts and sciences, and business. TWUs inclusive culture prioritizes experiential learning, leadership, service, discovery, and health and well-being, and national media have recognized the university as a top college for student-parents, veterans, and social mobility. In 2024, TWU eclipsed a $125 million goal in its ongoing fundraising effort, DREAM BIG, which supports programming, equipment, scholarships, and faculty. To learn more about the campaign or the university, visit dreambig.twu.edu or twu.edu, or connect with TWU on Facebook @TexasWomansUniversity, Instagram @txwomans, Twitter @txwomans, and LinkedIn @texaswomansuniversity.

About Bezos Academy:

Bezos Academy is a nonprofit organization operating a network of full-day preschools at no cost to families served. Through fully funded scholarships, Bezos Academy provides students with all necessary educational supplies and services to set each student up for success, including Montessori materials, books, arts and crafts, field trips and meals. Bezos Academy operates preschools across Arizona, Hawaii, Florida, Kentucky, Texas and Washington.

As of fall 2026, Bezos Academy will operate 12 schools across Texas including six schools in the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area, five schools in greater Houston, and one school in San Antonio. For more information, visit BezosAcademy.org.

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BOOK REVIEW: CAN'T RUN WITH THE BIG DOGS (VERONICA KILDARE K-9 MYSTERY, #4) by Tracy Carter

KAREN SIDDALL — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 19:57:44 Z

Can't Run With the Big Dogs

Veronica Kildare K-9 Mystery, #4

Tracy Carter

Excitement, suspense, and the heroine's special relationships with working dogs make this tale of mystery and hidden menace a must-read!

Can't Run With the Big Dogs is the fourth book in Tracy Carter's dog-loving Veronica Kildare K-9 Mystery series, featuring the savvy dog trainer and her amazing dog, Leda, and their wonderful circle of family and friends, each with their own working dogs and passion for helping others. In this latest adventure, Veronica and Leda are called upon to trail the paths of several missing, lost, and abducted people, and readers get a front-row seat as a couple of service-dogs-in-training learn their new craft.

Veronica, a lifelong dog lover, has built a new life as the owner of her own dog training facility and the human half of the area's premier search-and-rescue team, alongside her Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Leda. But before settling in Boulder, she had been the victim of an horrific ambush when her district attorney boss and sheriff's deputy fiancé had been gunned down by a violent criminal who then eluded capture. While the gunman's burned-out vehicle with an unidentified body inside had eventually been discovered, there had been no positive proof that his reign of terror and threats to Veronica were over. Throughout the series, the lingering threat that Tommy Arnett was still out there, watching and waiting, has really enhanced the foreboding and suspense of the stories, and this book provides the same brooding background menace. Still, a note of hope lingers as everyone waits for the results of new DNA testing.

Veronica's relationship with her delightful professional baseball player beau, Ricardo, has helped heal her emotional wounds from the past, and their time together is warm and comfortable. Veronica is supported by her loving and talented father, Bob, who tests and rights reviews for outdoor outdoors equipment and has a clear genius for manipulating and processing out information via the Internet, besides being a dab hand in the kitchen, and by Michael, the young product of the state foster system, now living on site while attending college and learning to become a K-9 handler and dog trainer himself. Veronica's best friend Sylvia, her husband, Boulder PD Sergeant Tim Donovan, and their brood of two sets of twin teenage daughters round out her close-knit circle of friends. As a group, they focus on service and making a positive impact on their environment and community. While facing some difficult situations, they always strive for excellence and maintain a positive attitude, which becomes very important when partnered with a working dog on assignment.

Yet, the highlights of the book are those featuring Veronica's work with the dogs. Beyond Leda and her exciting rescue operations in the surrounding Colorado wilderness areas, this book also features her adventures with two fledgling service dogs. Sky, an 18-month-old Australian cattle dog mix and shelter rescue, is undergoing training to sniff out and alert nursing home staff to the presence of C. diff, an insidious bacteria that can be deadly to the elderly. Decla, a two-year-old Irish Red and White Setter who lost her human family in a car accident, is finding a new home and purpose as a drug-detection dog at the local horse-racing track. Decla's storyline intersects with the main plot of strange goings-on at the track, where already two grooms with important information have gone missing.

Finally, the author chooses an exceptionally versatile setting by placing the action in the Boulder/Denver, Colorado, area. The descriptions of the locations are vivid and so critical to the action that readers can almost feel the bitter cold and damp, smell the crisp, fir-scented air, and feel the loose, rocky trails beneath their feet as Veronica and Leda trail the scent of someone who is having the worst day of their life.

With its engaging cast of characters, vibrant settings, and compelling plot, I recommend CAN'T RUN WITH THE BIG DOGS to readers of mysteries, thrillers, and suspense.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from Reedsy Discovery.

BOOK REVIEW: BURIED DALLASFORT WORTH by Tui Snider

KAREN SIDDALL — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 10:23:09 Z

Buried Dallas-Fort Worth:

A Photographic Journey Through North Texas Cemeteries

Tui Snider

An interesting guide to famous resting places, cemetery symbolism, and gravesite art in the DFW area.

If you have any curiosity regarding cemetery symbols, historic headstones, or gravesite art in general, or cemeteries in the DallasFort Worth area in particular, Buried Dallas-Fort Worth: A Photographic Journey Through North Texas Cemeteries should be right up your alley. Author Tui Snider has curated an interesting collection of examples of these very things in or near the metroplex, with location details so readers can visit these special sites for themselves.

Accompanied by stunningly clear, vivid photographs, the author highlights not only cemeteries of historic significance but also the resting places of historic figures, both famous and infamous. The guide includes stories that explain the associated notoriety or the location's place in our area's history. Readers may be surprised by what they discover has existed right under their noses, just out of plain view.

One of the most interesting aspects of the guide is its explanations of the carved symbols and artwork on the various headstones, grave markers, and monuments. While many relate to the personalities or characteristics of the dead when they were still living, others express the grief, loss, and longing of those the deceased left behind. Some symbols date back far into the past, while others are more recent. While not definitive, the descriptions, discussions, and photographs provide a valuable key to unlocking their meanings and will enhance the understanding of the surroundings when visiting these remarkable places of eternal rest.

I recommend BURIED DALLASFORT WORTH to those interested in cemetery symbolism, sites, and celebrities.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Lone Star Literary Life Book Campaigns.

Shelton School Honors Five Educators and Administrators With 2025-26 SPARK Awards

Lisa Kresl — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 08:26:48 Z

Three Shelton teachers and two administrators received the 2025-2026 Shelton Parents Association Recognition Kudos (SPARK) Award during the May 22, 2026, End-of-the-Year Staff Appreciation Luncheon.

This marks the eleventh year the Shelton Parents Association has presented the recognition based on comments from the spring parent survey. Each recipient received a crystal SPARK statue, thanks to SPAs Emily Touchstone, along with a monetary award.

Special thanks to the Shelton Parents Association for recognizing the extraordinary impact Shelton faculty and staff have on students and families.

LOWER SCHOOL TEACHER SUSAN COLLINS

Honored for transforming the school experience for students and helping children rediscover a love of learning
Master of Arts in Education, Dallas Baptist University
Certified Academic Language Practitioner and Montessori primary certified

One parent shared that her child now jumps up with anticipation for the school day.

MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER AMANDA SMART

Honored for building confidence, self-advocacy and meaningful relationships with students
Master of Arts in Liberal Arts, Southern Methodist University
Joined Shelton in 2022

One nomination described Ms. Smart as attentive, responsive and deeply invested in her students.

UPPER SCHOOL TEACHER DELANA MULLINS

Honored for her encouragement, compassion and leadership with students and colleagues
Bachelor of Arts in Education, Texas Tech University
Joined Shelton in 2023

One nomination described Ms. Mullins as a dedicated and creative teacher, and a helpful and kind colleague.

DIRECTOR OF ADMISSION MEGHAN MILLER

Honored for her leadership, compassion and dedication to Shelton families
Gives hundreds of campus tours each year and supports families throughout the admission process
Master of Education in Early Childhood Education, Southern Methodist University
Certified Academic Language Therapist and Educational Diagnostician

Executive Director Suzanne Stell praised Mrs. Miller for the many ways she supports prospective families.

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING LISA KRESL

Honored for her storytelling, leadership and dedication to Sheltons mission
Led Sheltons 50th anniversary communications and storytelling efforts
Passionate about sharing stories of hope and success featuring Shelton students and alumni
Former Deputy Managing Editor, The Dallas Morning News
Mother of Will Kresl (Shelton Class of 2017)

Her passion for storytelling and human interest has helped her champion Sheltons mission, Executive Director Suzanne Stell said.

Woodland Cottages of Sherman Now Open, Bringing New 55+ Living Option to Texoma

Culver Public Relations — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 14:29:51 Z

Woodland Cottages is now open in Sherman, bringing a new maintenance-free living option for adults 55 and older to the Texoma region.

Developed by Carbon Shepherd Development, the gated active adult community at 3306 W. Houston St. celebrated its grand opening Aug. 13 with a Tri-Chamber ribbon cutting alongside the Sherman, Denison and Pottsboro Area Chambers of Commerce.

The community features one- and two-bedroom homes with attached garages, zero-threshold showers and select fenced backyards. Amenities include a clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pool, pickleball court and a calendar of social events.

Prospective residents can now tour the community and explore available homes.

Mosquito Season Peaks Across Texas Driving West Nile Virus Surge

Culver Public Relations — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 12:37:16 Z

By Dr. Joel Wayne Walker, WellMed Medical Management

Hard to believe, but true: tiny little mosquitoes carry serious, sometimes deadly disease. After all of the torrential rain and resulting standing water in Texas, mosquitoes are out in force.

According to the Texas Department of Health and Human Services there have been 976 total West Nile cases reported in Texas during the last five years with 106 deaths in the state attributed to West Nile.

West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States. Each year, more than 1,300 people develop severe illness that affects the central nervous system, and more than 130 people die.

Mosquitoes are more than just an itchy nuisance; they can carry and transmit diseases that pose serious health risks. Knowing precautions to take is crucial, especially for those living in mosquito-prone areas like Texas.

Understanding the threat of mosquitoes

The most prevalent mosquito-borne illnesses include West Nile virus, Dengue fever and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). While West Nile virus is the most reported domestic threat in the United States, Dengue remains the world's most widespread mosquito-borne virus, with rising case numbers in both tropical regions and parts of Texas.

West Nile Virus

Tracked by the CDC West Nile virus index, this illness peaks in late summer. It is transmitted primarily by Culex mosquitoes and remains a widespread concern.

West Nile virus can sometimes cause severe neurological diseases. Most people infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms or mild, flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches. However, in severe cases, the virus can lead to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). These are life-threatening illnesses. Older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe complications.

Dengue Fever

Prevalent globally, Dengue is increasingly reported in the southern United States, including Texas. Detailed local case tracking and travel warnings are available via the CDC Dengue Background. Dengue fever is a viral infection that can cause severe flu-like symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash and mild bleeding (nose or gum bleeding). In extreme cases, dengue fever can develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever, a potentially life-threatening condition that causes bleeding, blood plasma leakage and low platelet count.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

A rarer but potentially severe neurological disease that is currently active, particularly in coastal and humid regions. EEE is a rare but severe mosquito-borne viral disease that causes inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). It is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito that has fed on infected birds. Most cases in the United States occur in the eastern or Gulf Coast states. Symptoms typically appear 3 to 10 days after an infected mosquito bite. The disease progresses in stages, sometimes leading to severe neurological issues. There is no cure or specific medication for EEE, nor is there a human vaccine. Treatment primarily consists of supportive hospital care, including intravenous fluids and respiratory support. Prevention relies entirely on avoiding mosquito bites.

How to prevent mosquito bites

Preventing mosquito bites is your first line of defense against mosquito-borne illnesses. Here are some effective strategies:

Use insect repellents Applying EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Para-menthane-diol, or lemon eucalyptus oil can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito bites. Ensure you follow the product instructions and reapply as directed, especially if you spend extended periods outdoors.
Wear protective clothing Wear loose-fitting long sleeves, long pants, and socks to minimize skin exposure. Look for clothes and gear treated with permethrin. Light-colored clothing is less attractive to mosquitoes and can further reduce the likelihood of bites.
Install screens and use mosquito nets Keeping windows and doors closed or installing fine mesh screens can prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. If you're in a high-risk area, consider using mosquito nets around your bed for added protection.
Avoid peak mosquito hours Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Stay indoors during these times or take extra precautions if you need to be outside.

Treating mosquito bites

Despite your best efforts, you might still get bitten. Heres how to treat mosquito bites effectively:

Clean the bite area: Wash the bite area with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
Apply anti-itch creams: Over-the-counter anti-itch creams or lotions containing hydrocortisone can help alleviate itching and reduce swelling.
Use cold compresses: Applying a cold compress to the bite can help reduce inflammation and relieve itching and discomfort.
Avoid scratching: Scratching can worsen the itching and increase the risk of infection. Try to keep your hands off the bite to let it heal properly.
Baking soda and water paste: Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a small amount of water to make a paste. Apply it to the bite and wait 10 minutes to rinse it off.

Eliminating mosquitoes in your yard and home

Creating a less attractive environment for mosquitoes is key to keeping them away from your living spaces. Heres how you can achieve that:

Remove standing water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Regularly check and eliminate standing water from bird baths, flowerpots, gutters and other containers around your yard.
Maintain your yard: Keep your grass trimmed and your shrubs well-maintained. Mosquitoes like to rest in tall grass and bushes so a tidy yard can reduce their presence.
Use mosquito traps: Mosquito traps can effectively reduce the mosquito population in your yard. These devices attract and capture mosquitoes, helping to lower their numbers.
Install outdoor fans: Mosquitoes are weak fliers. Installing outdoor fans on your porch or patio can help keep them away by creating a breeze they find difficult to navigate.

Indoor mosquito control

Use indoor insecticides: Consider using indoor insecticides or mosquito foggers to eliminate mosquitoes inside your home. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe and effective use.
Maintain cleanliness: Ensure your home is clean and clutter-free where mosquitoes can hide. Regular cleaning can help keep these pests at bay.
Seal entry points: Check and seal any gaps or cracks in windows, doors, and walls that mosquitoes might use to enter your home.

Stay safe from mosquito-borne illness

Mosquitoes are more than an annoyance; they are potential carriers of serious diseases. You can protect yourself and your family from these pests by taking proactive steps to prevent bites, treating any bites that occur, and maintaining a mosquito-free environment.

Resources:

A New Season of World-Class Music Premieres at the DSO

Culver Public Relations — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 10:39:01 Z

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is set to raise the curtain on its highly anticipated 20262027 season, bringing an exciting lineup of world-class music and unforgettable performances to the heart of Dallas for audiences of all kinds. From powerful symphonic masterpieces and beloved classics to acclaimed guest artists and bold new works, the season celebrates the artistry, innovation, and passion that have made the DSO a cultural cornerstone of the city.

Pops concert highlights include:

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince in Concert (Sept 4-6)
The Music of Elvis with Frankie Moreno (Sept 11-13)
Gala Concert with Idina Menzel (Sept 26)
Disneys Hocus Pocus in Concert Live to Film (Oct 9-11)
Día de los Muertos with the DSO (Oct 30)
Disneys The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live to Film (Dec 4-6)
Holidays with the DSO (Dec 11-12, 17-19)
New Years Eve with the DSO (Dec 31)
OopsI Sang It Again! Pop Queens of the 90s & 00s (Jan 8 & 9)
Disney and Pixars UP in Concert (Feb 26-28)
Everything I Know: Mandy Gonzalez Sings Lin-Manuel Miranda (Mar 19-21)
Barbie The Movie: In Concert (May 7-9)

To view the full events calendar and learn more about the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, please visit DallasSymphony.org. Meyerson Symphony Center is located at 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201.

A New Season of World-Class Music Premieres at the DSO

Culver Public Relations — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 10:39:01 Z

Pops concert highlights include:

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince in Concert (Sept 4-6)
The Music of Elvis with Frankie Moreno (Sept 11-13)
Gala Concert with Idina Menzel (Sept 26)
Disneys Hocus Pocus in Concert Live to Film (Oct 9-11)
Día de los Muertos with the DSO (Oct 30)
Disneys The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live to Film (Dec 4-6)
Holidays with the DSO (Dec 11-12, 17-19)
New Years Eve with the DSO (Dec 31)
OopsI Sang It Again! Pop Queens of the 90s & 00s (Jan 8 & 9)
Disney and Pixars UP in Concert (Feb 26-28)
Everything I Know: Mandy Gonzalez Sings Lin-Manuel Miranda (Mar 19-21)
Barbie The Movie: In Concert (May 7-9)

To view the full events calendar and learn more about the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, please visit DallasSymphony.org. Meyerson Symphony Center is located at 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201.

Two Ways to Support Folds of Honor North Texas This Fall

Culver Public Relations — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 17:03:42 Z

There are two great ways to support Folds of Honor North Texas this fall, and both help provide educational scholarships to the families of fallen or disabled U.S. service members and first responders.

First up, grab a paddle and join us for the Folds of Honor North Texas Patriot Pickleball Classic on Friday, Sept. 11, from 1-4 p.m. at Game On Indoor Sports Complex in Fort Worth. Come ready for an afternoon of pickleball, community, and a chance to support local scholarship families.

Then, mark your calendar for one of our biggest nights of the year. The 2026 North Texas Folds of Honor Gala will take place Saturday, Nov. 14, at The Field at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The evening brings together military and first responder families, veterans, scholarship recipients, and supporters from across North Texas for a VIP reception, dinner, auction, live entertainment, and a special guest appearance.

Funds raised at the Gala will help Folds of Honor continue providing educational scholarships to the spouses and children of those who have sacrificed in service to our country and communities.

Join us this fall as we honor their sacrifice and educate their legacy.

Learn more about upcoming events and ways to get involved at northtexas.foldsofhonor.org.

BRYNN BAGOT PUBLIC RELATIONS MARKS 25 YEARS OF HELPING CLIENTS TELL THEIR STORIES

Brynn Bagot Public Relations — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 13:00:00 Z

Brynn Bagot Public Relations (BBPR), a Dallas-based public relations firm, is proudly celebrating its 25^th anniversary, marking a quarter century of shaping conversations, elevating brands and helping businesses, nonprofit organizations and community leaders make a lasting impact through strategic communications.

Founded in 2001 by Brynn Bagot, the agency has earned a reputation for delivering thoughtful, results-driven communications strategies tailored to each clients unique goals. Over the past 25 years, BBPR has successfully led media relations campaigns, brand development initiatives, event publicity, social media strategy and community engagement efforts for clients across a wide range of industries.

Twenty-five years ago, I took a leap of faith and started this agency with a vision for the kind of firm I wanted to build one grounded in relationships, integrity and a genuine commitment to our clients. Reaching this milestone is both humbling and incredibly rewarding. Im deeply grateful to the clients who have trusted us, the talented people who have been part of our team, and the friends and partners who have supported us along the way. Im incredibly proud of what weve built, and I couldnt be more excited about the next chapter, said Brynn Bagot, founder and president of Brynn Bagot Public Relations.

Known for its personalized approach and relentless commitment to client success, BBPR blends strategic communications with creative storytelling to secure meaningful media coverage, amplify brand visibility and create authentic connections that drive results. The agencys capabilities include strategic communications, public relations campaigns, media relations, social media management, corporate branding, event planning and publicity, media training, sports and entertainment marketing, special events, and marketing development.

Throughout its 25-year history, BBPR has helped launch brands, celebrate milestones, navigate challenges and elevate organizations across industries including real estate, nonprofit, architecture and design, construction, consumer products and services, fashion, retail, health and beauty, education, sports, professional services, senior living, public affairs, hospitality, food and beverage, and more. From high-profile corporate announcements and grand openings to community initiatives and record-breaking fundraising campaigns, the firm has become a trusted extension of its clients' teams, delivering strategic communications that create lasting impact.

As BBPR celebrates this milestone and looks toward the future, the firm remains committed to embracing new opportunities, evolving alongside the communications industry and delivering the strategic counsel, creativity and trusted relationships that have defined its first 25 years. With a legacy built on integrity and results, BBPR is poised to continue helping clients tell the stories that matter most for years to come.

For more information about Brynn Bagot Public Relations, visit https://www.brynnbagot.com/ or follow us on Instagram, @brynnbagotpr.

St. Andrew Methodist Church Celebrates 40 Years with SOAR Art Installation

Elizabeth Lenart — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 15:26:32 Z

More than 2,000 origami doves and cardinals will fill St. Andrews worship spaces through January 2027 symbolizing the churchs 40-year journey and vision for the future

St. Andrew Methodist Church is celebrating 40 years in Plano, by honoring its history, celebrating its impact and looking ahead to the next chapter with SOAR, a one-of-a-kind art installation featuring more than 2,000 hand-folded origami doves and cardinals suspended throughout its three worship spaces. Similar origami installations have been featured in churches around the world, but St. Andrew will be only the fourth church in the United States and the first in the Southwestern U.S. to host one, as well as the first to feature cardinals alongside the doves.

In the sanctuary and Hasley Chapel, the birds will be attached individually by hand to large nets that will be lifted high above the worship spaces, creating the effect of flocks soaring overhead. The intricately folded doves and cardinals will sweep upward, symbolizing St. Andrews 40-year journey and its vision for the future one filled with hope, peace and possibilities.

SOAR, uniquely named by St. Andrew, was designed by Taros Origami Studio, based in Brooklyn, New York. Founded by artist and president Taro Yaguchi, the studio creates custom origami artwork and installations. Representatives visited St. Andrew earlier this year to create the designs for each of the three worship spaces, and the studios team of artists have devoted the summer to hand-folding the doves and cardinals for St. Andrews installation.

SOAR is a beautiful expression of where St. Andrew is headed as we look toward the next 40 years, said Rev. Arthur Jones, senior pastor, St. Andrew. It symbolizes Gods grace and presence and the strength He gives us to rise and embrace what lies ahead. It is also a testament to the generosity of our congregation, who have sponsored the birds in honor or memory of people who have made a difference in their lives.

Founded in 1986 by the late Rev. Robert Hasley, St. Andrew began with a meeting of 20 people in a Plano home. Its first worship service was held at Shepton High School, where it was attended by 500 people. In 1990, the church family marched from Shepton to the building site, where a ground-breaking ceremony was held for the first building phase. After moving to its current Plano campus in 1991, the church continued to grow through expanded worship, facilities, community outreach and mission work. Four decades later, St. Andrew welcomes more than 2,000 people each weekend and continues to look for new ways to serve its congregation and community.

The task for St. Andrews next 40 years is to continue the faithfulness and good work that have defined the church for the past four decades, added Rev. Jones. During that time, we have launched new ministries and worship services and continually looked for ways to preach and live out the good news of Jesus Christ. God has blessed us with amazing members, staff and leaders who have transformed Plano, North Texas, and the world through their love of God and neighbor. As an independent Methodist church, we are called to be a cross-denominational leader and a connecting point for churches that want to see people and communities flourish by finding purpose and meaning through faith in Jesus.

The installation will be completed in advance of the anniversary weekend, and following its debut, SOAR will be open to visitors through January 2027, with guided tours offered on the first Thursday of each month beginning in October.

We are honored to share this special installation with our worshippers as well as the community as we celebrate our past and look with hope and excitement toward the future, continued Rev. Jones. God has done amazing things through St. Andrew, and we believe Hes not done yet.

St. Andrew will hold 40th anniversary worship services, featuring the premiere of SOAR, on Saturday, Sept. 12 and Sunday, Sept. 13. Services will feature special music, including a newly commissioned anniversary piece, composed by John Wasson and performed by a symphonic brass orchestra during the 9:30 a.m. traditional service on Sept. 13. A horn section will perform along with the house band during the 9:30 and 11 a.m. contemporary services. The weekend will include other special touches celebrating four decades of St. Andrew, including late founding pastor Rev. Robert Hasleys favorite chocolate chip cookies, served after all services.

40th Anniversary Worship Services Sept. 12 and 13

Traditional Saturday, Sept. 12 at 5:30 p.m. in Hasley Chapel;
Sunday, Sept. 13 at 9:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary; and 11 a.m. in Hasley Chapel

Contemporary Sunday, Sept. 13 at 9:30 a.m. in Smith Worship Center and 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary

Tours of SOAR will be offered from 11 a.m. 12 p.m., Oct. 1, Nov. 5, Dec. 3, and Jan. 7. Groups of 12 or more may schedule a private tour. Details are available at standrewmethodist.org/SOAR.

# # #

St. Andrew Methodist Church, founded in 1986, is an independent Methodist congregation in Plano, Texas, with more than 8,000 members. St. Andrew is committed to faith that is real, practical, and life-changing, while offering opportunities for traditional and contemporary worship, discipleship, and service locally, regionally, and globally. The church is home to Invite Ministries, its publishing house, and Beacon of Light, a mental health ministry. St. Andrew is a community of people seeking to live more like Jesus every day and to learn in deeper ways what it means to follow His teachings, live in community, and serve the world. 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, TX 75093, www.standrewmethodist.org, (972) 380-8001

New Friends New Life Announces 2026 ProtectHER Award Recipients to be Honored at Annual Luncheon

Elizabeth Lenart — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 11:59:29 Z

New Friends New Life (NFNL) announces the recipients of its 2026 ProtectHER Awards: Baker Botts and Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., Elizabeth Carlock Phillips, and Janet Jensen. The awards, sponsored by Thomson Reuters, will be presented at the annual NFNL Stand for Her Luncheon, on September 24 at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. The luncheon will feature actress, producer, and founder/CEO Tracee Ellis Ross in a conversation moderated by NBC 5 anchor Laura Harris.

Community leaders Lottye and Bobby Lyle will serve as honorary luncheon chairs, joining mother-daughter co-chair teams Beth Thoele and Brooke Russo and Kathy Helm and Marci Kramer in leading the event, which supports NFNLs mission to restore and empower survivors of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation.

Established in 2013, the ProtectHER Awards recognize individuals, corporations, and agencies whose leadership and service advance the protection, dignity, and value of women and girls in Dallas, across the nation, and around the world. Past recipients include Erin Nealy Cox, The Meadows Foundation, Methodist Health Systems, Santander Consumer USA Foundation, Inc., and Southwest Airlines.

For the past two years, the Baker Botts/Toyota Pro Bono Legal Clinic has played a critical role in supporting members of NFNLs Womens Program by providing free legal services that remove barriers to stability and independence. From addressing family law matters to resolving issues that impact employment, housing, and financial security, the clinic has helped survivors move forward with confidence and hope.

Each year these partnering entities show up with expertise wrapped in empathy, lighting the legal path forward for our members said Bianca Davis, CEO, NFNL. "Their unwavering commitment helps remove barriers that too often stand between survivors and the fresh start they deserve."

Through her tireless advocacy for Treys Law, Elizabeth Carlock Phillips has become a powerful voice for survivors of sexual abuse and human trafficking. This landmark legislation prohibits the use of nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) to silence survivors of sexual abuse, child sexual abuse, and human trafficking. Inspired by the tragic loss of her brother, Trey Carlock, who experienced childhood sexual abuse at a summer camp and died by suicide in 2019 at the age of 28, Phillips courageously shared his story with lawmakers to help ensure survivors would never again be silenced. Today, Trey's Law is helping hold perpetrators accountable in Texas and serving as a model for similar legislation across the country.

At New Friends New Life, we recognize the courage and tenacity required to impact legislative change, said Davis. Elizabeth has transformed personal tragedy into meaningful action, creating protections that will benefit survivors for generations to come."

As founder of The Jensen Project, Janet Jensen has transformed the way organizations serving women and girls affected by gender-based violence build capacity and strengthen their impact. Through strategic funding, leadership development, collaboration, and technical support, The Jensen Project has equipped agencies across the country with the resources needed to expand services, improve outcomes, and better serve survivors.

"The Jensen Project's advocacy, investment, and commitment to collaboration have strengthened the anti-trafficking movement and created meaningful, measurable progress for survivors nationwide," Davis added. "Janet understands that lasting change happens when organizations are equipped to work together, and her leadership continues to elevate the entire field."

Thomson Reuters is proud to stand alongside New Friends New Life in honoring these ProtectHER Award recipients, said Heather Panton, Senior Advisor of Social Impact and Human Rights, Thomson Reuters. Their tireless efforts reflect the values we champion truth, justice, and human dignity. We are committed to leveraging our data, technology, and subject matter expertise to help combat trafficking in communities across the U.S. and around the world.

Underwriting sponsorship opportunities begin at $3,000. A limited number of individual tickets are available at $300. To reserve sponsorships or seats, visit www.newfriendsnewlife.org/luncheon, email events@newfriendsnewlife.org, or contact Chief Development Officer Priya Murphy at 214-217-8652. Media Sponsor is NBC 5/ Telemundo 39.

# # #

About New Friends New Life (NFNL)

Founded in Dallas in 1998, New Friends New Life (NFNL) is an award-winning organization that restores and empowers trafficked and sexually exploited teen girls, women, and their children while leading efforts to end sex trafficking and exploitation through awareness, advocacy, and systemic change. In 2025, NFNL served 320 teen girls, women, and their children, providing holistic programs that support stability, emotional healing, education, economic mobility, and long-term independence. NFNL advances its mission through advocacy, legislative reform, community education, and strategic partnerships. Its drop-in Youth Resource Center (YRC), launched in partnership with the Texas Governor's Office, has provided comprehensive preventative and restorative services to more than 700 trafficked and high-risk teen girls since opening in 2018. NFNLs Men's Advocacy Group has engaged men in the fight against sex trafficking and exploitation since 2015. In 2024, NFNL was named the D CEO Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Organization of the Year (Midsize). For more information, visit www.newfriendsnewlife.org.

Journey Art Exhibition Marks Grant Halliburton Foundations 20th Anniversary

Juliette DC — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 11:38:11 Z

Grant Halliburton Foundation and Center for BrainHealth, part of The University of Texas at Dallas, are partnering to present Journey: The Art and Legacy of Grant Halliburton, an exhibition on view Sept. 825 at Center for BrainHealth, 2200 W. Mockingbird Lane in Dallas.

Presented during Grant Halliburton Foundations 20th anniversary year and National Suicide Prevention Month, the exhibition connects Grants creative legacy with two decades of work in North Texas to strengthen youth mental health and prevent suicide. A series of public programs throughout September will extend the conversation through mental health education, brain science and community engagement.

Twenty years of impact began with the Halliburton familys decision to turn unimaginable loss into action, said Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation. This exhibition gives our community the opportunity to know Grant not only as the name of our Foundation, but as a gifted artist whose life continues to inspire this mission and save lives. Were grateful to partner again with Center for BrainHealth to share the Foundations story, reflect on how far weve come and invite more people into the work still ahead.

The exhibition also invites visitors to consider the connections between creativity and proactive brain health, expanding the organizations partnership through art, public programming and community conversation.

Our partnership with Grant Halliburton Foundation reflects a shared commitment to helping people build stronger, healthier minds and lives, said Laura Bloom Gordon, chief marketing officer of Center for BrainHealth. Through this exhibition, we have an opportunity to connect art, mental wellness and brain health in a deeply meaningful way. With a variety of events all month, we hope to inspire conversations that strengthen resilience, connection and hope. This partnership builds on our collaboration through the Mental Wellness Collective and promotes community engagement in service of a common goal: helping more people understand and strengthen their brain health.

The Mental Wellness Collective brings together North Texas mental health, brain health and youth-serving organizations to strengthen youth mental health and resilience.

Journey will feature more than 50 of Grants original paintings, charcoal works, drawings and sketches, along with selections from his personal writings and poetry and a Listening Lounge featuring music he wrote and recorded with his high school bandmates. The exhibition will span three floors of Center for BrainHealths Brain Performance Institute building. A preview on the first floor will welcome visitors and introduce the exhibition, with most of the collection and accompanying elements displayed on the second and third floors.

Together, the works and interpretive elements will trace the connection between Grants creative legacy and the mission that grew in his memory. Grant Halliburton Foundation partnered with Business Council for the Arts (BCA) to thoughtfully curate the exhibition and bring Grants art, story and legacy to life. Amy McCloskey, a Foundation co-founder and Grants sister, collaborated closely with BCA throughout the curation process, contributing a personal understanding of Grant and his work.

Co-curating Journey with Amy was a profound honor, said Jill VanGorden, chief operating officer and head of programs for Business Council for the Arts. To help tell this story alongside Grants family is a privilege and reminds me exactly why the Foundations work matters. The exhibition doesnt shy away from its origins. It holds space for grief while foregrounding what has been built from it, allowing visitors to find hope on their own terms. This project also gives tangible form to what BCAs Arts and Health Committee has long championed and what research continues to affirm: that art meaningfully shapes individual well-being and the health of our workplaces.

The Foundations earliest efforts were rooted in art and creativity. In May 2006, Grants work was presented at the ArtCentre of Plano in Journey: The Art, Music, and Words of Grant Halliburton. That same year, the Foundation awarded its first art scholarship to a graduating student at Plano West Senior High School, where Grant attended. The 2026 exhibition returns to that creative beginning while showing how the mission has grown.

Twenty years ago, our family was searching for a way to help other families avoid the loss we experienced, said McCloskey. Grants artwork offers a glimpse of the creativity, humor and depth he brought to the world. Presenting Journey again during our 20th anniversary year brings us back to where the Foundation began and reminds us why this work remains so important.

Since 2006, Grant Halliburton Foundation has reached more than 375,000 students, educators, parents and professionals through mental health education, suicide prevention training and community resources. Since launching in 2021, the Foundations Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line has helped more than 5,100 people find providers and resources, answered more than 4,600 calls and provided more than 12,800 follow-ups to individuals and families.

The September collaboration comes amid an urgent need for continued prevention and early intervention. The CDCs most recent final mortality data, released in 2026, identify suicide as the second-leading cause of death among people ages 1024 in the United States.

For personalized guidance finding mental health and substance use providers and resources, call the Foundations free Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line at 972-525-8181, Monday through Friday,
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Navigation Line is not a crisis service.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can also text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Text Line volunteer. Both services are free, confidential and available 24/7.

SEPTEMBER EXHIBITION EVENTS
All events at Center for BrainHealth, 2200 W. Mockingbird Lane, Dallas

September 825
Journey: The Art and Legacy of Grant Halliburton

The exhibition will be open to the public Sept. 825 on Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 4 p.m. Appointments are available on other weekdays by calling Center for BrainHealth at 972-883-3400. The exhibition is closed Saturdays and Sundays. Learn more at granthalliburton.org/journey.

September 17 | Reception: 67 p.m. | Talk: 78:15 p.m.

The Resilience Gap: How to Strengthen the Teen Brain in a Tech-Obsessed World

Kicking off the 2026 season of the popular BrainHealth Presents speaker series, Eva Telzer, Ph.D., and Mitch Prinstein, Ph.D., will discuss how technology, social media and artificial intelligence are shaping the developing teen brain and share evidence-based strategies that support attention, emotional regulation and social connection. Attendees will also have an opportunity to experience Journey and explore Grants artwork during the evening. The event is for guests ages 21 and older. Learn more and purchase tickets at centerforbrainhealth.org.

September 24 | 69 p.m.

The Art of Connection: Creativity, Mental Wellness and Brain Health
A Young Professionals Event presented by GHF YP and Think Tank

Grant Halliburton Foundation Young Professionals and Think Tank, Center for BrainHealths young professionals group, are partnering to present an evening for guests in their 20s, 30s and 40s. The event will feature networking, a private viewing of the Journey exhibition and a panel including artists and mental health and brain health experts exploring the connections among creativity, mental wellness and brain health.
Learn more at granthalliburton.org/journey.

OTHER SEPTEMBER EVENTS

September 130 | Galleria Dallas
Galleria Dallas Mural

Created for Grant Halliburton Foundations 20th anniversary and National Suicide Prevention Month, this public mural explores how hope grows when a community shows up. Featuring a preview of Grants artwork, suicide prevention steps, mental health resources and September events, the installation invites visitors to learn more about the Foundation, discover how to support someone in crisis, find help and explore Journey. The mural is located on Level 1 at the south end of Galleria Dallas near Sephora and ALO.

September 10 | 8 a.m.3:30 p.m. | Plano Event Center
When Life Hands You Teenagers

The Foundations annual conference equipping parents, educators and mental health professionals with tools for supporting youth mental health. Learn more and register at granthalliburton.org/wlhyt.

September 17 | 6 a.m.midnight
North Texas Giving Day
Supporters can help build on 20 years of lifesaving mental health education, resources and suicide prevention programs. Early giving begins Aug. 28. Learn more and give at granthalliburton.org/ntgd.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation: Grant Halliburton Foundation is a Dallas-based nonprofit established in 2006 in memory of Grant Halliburton, who lived with depression and bipolar disorder and died by suicide at age 19. The Foundation works to strengthen the network of mental health resources for children, teens and young adults; promote better mental health; and prevent suicide. Through education, resources and support, it equips students, educators, parents and professionals to recognize signs of distress, respond appropriately and connect young people with help. Since its founding, the Foundation has reached more than 375,000 people across North Texas. Its Here For Texas program offers two free resources: HereForTexas.com, a searchable database of mental health providers and resources, and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line, which provides personalized assistance finding care. Learn more at GrantHalliburton.org.

About Center for BrainHealth: Center for BrainHealth®, part of The University of Texas at Dallas, is a nonprofit translational research institute committed to enhancing, preserving, and restoring brain health across the lifespan. Major research areas include the use of functional and structural neuroimaging techniques to better understand the neurobiology supporting the continual growth of cognition, well-being and social connections in health and disease. This leading-edge scientific exploration is translated quickly into practical innovations to improve how people think, work and live, empowering people of all ages to thrive and unlock their brain potential. Translational innovations leverage 1) the BrainHealth Index, a proprietary measure that uniquely charts one's upward (or downward) brain health trajectory whatever their starting level; and 2) Strategic Memory Advanced Reasoning Tactics (SMART) brain health training, a strategy-based toolkit developed and tested by BrainHealth researchers and other teams over three decades. The center's landmark longitudinal study, The BrainHealth Project, launched in 2020 with the goal of identifying actionable strategies for optimizing brain health throughout life, uncovering the dynamic relationship between lifestyle factors, biological markers, brain training and cognitive performance. It is co-led by Dr. Sandi Chapman, Dr. Mark D'Esposito, Dr. Geoff Ling, Dr. Ian Robertson, Dr. Vince Calhoun and Tom Leppert, with Georgeann and Adm. William McRaven (ret.) serving as national spokespersons.

About Business Council for the Arts: Since its founding in 1988 by Raymond Nasher as a Dallas Citizens Council initiative, the Business Council for the Arts (BCA) has championed the integration of arts and business across North Texas. Today, under the leadership of Founders Chair Nancy Nasher, Board Chair Joel Austin, and CEO Stacie Adams, BCA serves a network of more than 150 organizations committed to strengthening workplaces, classrooms, and communities through the arts. BCAs programming spans creative workforce development, community engagement, and leadership cultivation. Signature initiatives include On My Own Time, Art at Work, and the Leadership Arts Institute, alongside committee-driven efforts focused on Arts & Health, Arts & Real Estate, and Arts & Technology. To learn more, visit www.ntbca.org.

Journey Art Exhibition Marks Grant Halliburton Foundations 20th Anniversary

Juliette DC — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 11:38:11 Z

The Mental Wellness Collective brings together North Texas mental health, brain health and youth-serving organizations to strengthen youth mental health and resilience.

SEPTEMBER EXHIBITION EVENTS
All events at Center for BrainHealth, 2200 W. Mockingbird Lane, Dallas

September 825
Journey: The Art and Legacy of Grant Halliburton

The Resilience Gap: How to Strengthen the Teen Brain in a Tech-Obsessed World

September 24 | 69 p.m.

The Art of Connection: Creativity, Mental Wellness and Brain Health
A Young Professionals Event presented by GHF YP and Think Tank

BOOK REVIEW - DRAGONSLAYER'S VALKYRIE: THE LEGEND OF SIGURD AND BRYNHILDR by Jennifer Ivy Walker

KAREN SIDDALL — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 17:48:25 Z

Dragonslayer's Valkyrie:

The Legend of Sigurd and Brynhildr

Viking Dragonslayers, #1

by Jennifer Ivy Walker

A masterpiece of reimagining a Nordic folk legend.

Dragonslayer's Valkyrie: The Legend of Sigurd and Brynhildr is the debut novel in author Jennifer Ivy Walker's exciting new Viking Dragonslayers series, and is a masterful reimagining of a renowned Nordic folk legend. While retaining the bones of the ancient story, Walker's lyrical prose, attention to historic detail, and creativity make the tale her own.

Told in the alternating points of view of the two fated lovers, the story begins with Sigurd's final trial of ability, strength, stamina, and determination before he is enrolled in the ranks of the elite Sea Wolves of his stepfather, King Alfr. His successful narrative is followed by Brynhildr's introduction and her fantastical summoning of Freyja for the goddess's confirmation of Brynhildr's future as a shieldmaiden rather than the simpering prize of a tournament victor. These wonderful openings set the stage for what's to come and define their early strengths of mind and body.

Readers are treated to the innermost thoughts and desires of these two earnest and deserving young people, establishing their worthiness for what will become a legendary love story. The author excels at delivering meaningful thought processes and dialogue that sounds natural, authentic, and makes sense. However, the author's skills truly shine in incorporating perfectly appropriate, timely descriptions of settings, rituals, and the characters' daily lives without bogging the story down in minutiae. The research that must have been done is evident in the vivid, precise details organically blended into every scene.

Sigurd and Brynhildr's attraction blossoms into aching longing, and their union and fulfillment are accomplished openly as part of the story, so be prepared if full disclosure makes you uncomfortable. The same care used to depict daily life or religious ceremonies is applied to revealing the pair's emotional and physical relationship.

The plot moves at an exciting pace as the characters are introduced and the scenes are set. Sigurd's and Brynhildr's hopes, dreams, pride, and longing will become yours as events intervene between these two classic fated mates. If their story weren't legendary before, it certainly would be now.

I recommend DRAGONSLAYER'S VALKYRIE: THE LEGEND OF SIGURD AND BRYNHILDR to readers of historical romance, historical fiction, fantasy romance, and folktale retellings.

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