Staff & Reader Submitted

Lack of Affordable Childcare Costs Dallas County Families $1.63 Billion in Annual Earnings

Juliette DC — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 16:15:49 Z

Texas' rapidly growing and increasingly female labor force requires childcare systems that are robust, accessible and affordable, according to the Texas Women's Foundation's (TXWF) latest white paper, "Addressing the Texas Childcare Crisis." Published in partnership with Every Texan, this research report is a follow-on to TXWF's 2024 Economic Issues for Women in Texas Report.

"Addressing the Texas Childcare Crisis" explores and quantifies a crisis charaterized by gaps in access and affordability and its impact on the state's economy, with a spotlight on Dallas County as a bellwether for the issue.

Karen Hughes White, TXWF president and CEO, said The takeaway from this research is clear: Strong childcare systems provide essential economic infrastructure allowing women to participate fully, consistently and productively in the workforce, stabilizing household earnings and supporting long-term economic growth.

She added, Women represent 46% of the Texas workforce and that number is growing. Based on population projections, women will outnumber men in Texas as early as 2040, meaning our $2.9 trillion Texas* economy is increasingly dependent on women. Access to affordable childcare and out-of-school care is imperative to creating a strong and vibrant Texas for all, while ensuring the economic security, stability and success of Texas women, their families and their futures. (*https://gov.texas.gov/top-texas-touts-economy)

KEY FINDINGS

Affordability:

Center-based infant care in Texas costs more than $11,000 annually on average. In Dallas County, this represents 12.5% of the median family income.

For a Texas family with an infant and a four-year old, the annual cost of center-based childcare is significantly higher than the estimated cost of housing.

A minimum wage worker in Texas would have to work full-time for 37 weeks just to afford care for one infant.

Access:

Over half of Texas counties are considered childcare deserts, where there are three or more children for each available licensed childcare center opening.

An estimated 111,490 Texas children lack access to care within a reasonable driving distance a 7.9 percent average access gap that grows to 12.8 percent in rural areas.

In Dallas County, approximately 43,400 mothers with young children remain outside of the labor force due in large part to the lack of accessible and affordable childcare.

Economic Impact:

Based on average annual earnings, Dallas County families forego $1.63 billion in direct earnings due to the lack of affordable childcare.

This earnings loss corresponds to approximately $3.19 billion in annual Gross Regional Product (GRP) losses for the county.

If left unaddressed, the cumulative, long-term economic losses for Dallas County and the state over the next 10 years are staggering:
- Dallas County - estimated $562 million-$859 million
- Statewide - estimated $5.5 billion-$8.3 billion

Investing for Change:

Evidence presented in the report suggests that sustained, local, coordinated investment in childcare is necessary to reduce labor force constraints and strengthen regional and statewide economic resilience.

Modeled outcomes in Dallas County have shown that an investment in childcare of $100 per family per month would allow approximately 1,700 mothers to work and earn approximately $65 million annually. With a $400 monthly investment, those numbers would increase to 6,900 mothers working and earning $260 million annually.

In 2025-26 alone, Texas Womens Foundation has invested more than $250,000 to address childcare access and affordability in Dallas County and beyond. Learn more about our Childcare Access Fund HERE.

To read TXWFs full white paper, "Addressing the Texas Childcare Crisis," visit

txwf.org/research.

Policy Recommendations and Call to Action:

Policymakers should prioritize investments in childcare and out-of-school time (OST) as core economic infrastructure to shape and build labor force participation, business productivity, and economic performance.
Sustained, coordinated investment in childcare and OST should be pursued to reduce labor force constraint, support womens continued participation in the labor market, and strengthen regional economic resilience.
Counties and municipalities are well positioned to address place-based gaps in care availability and to coordinate care with housing, transportation, and workforce development.
Texas Womens Foundation has established the Childcare Access Fund to make targeted investments in access and affordability. Donors are encouraged to support this fund by visiting https://www.txwf.co/donate.
To schedule a presentation of these results for corporate, civic and community groups, contact TXWF Director of Community Engagement Chandra Matthews at cmatthews@txwf.org.

Taking Action in Dallas County:

In late May, TXWF joined forces with a coalition of local business, civic, and community leaders** to announce the Dallas Child Care Works initiative to urge Dallas County commissioners to add a proposed, modest property tax increase to the November 2026 ballot. If approved by voters, the proposal would levy an additional 3 cents per $100 of assessed property value approximately $10 per homeowner per month, to generate $132 million annually for childcare scholarships and key infrastructure investments. Similar ballot measures have been successful in Travis and Harris Counties in recent years.

To learn more about Child Care Works, email info@earlymattersdallas.org.

**The Child Care Works coalition includes ChildCareGroup, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, North Texas Early Education Alliance, Dallas Area Interfaith, North Dallas Chamber of Commerce and Early Matters Dallas.

About Texas Womens Foundation:

Texas Womens Foundation (TXWF) raises funds from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support nearly $5 million in investments each year to help eliminate the barriers to womens economic security, stability and success through targeted research and advocacy, intentional grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $90 million in grantmaking in support of Texas women, their families and their futures, and another $25 million in research, advocacy and educational programs for a total impact of $115 million over the last 40 years. As TXWF prepares for its next 40 years, the organizations vision for a strong and vibrant Texas for all will remain at the forefront of its work.

TXWFs targeted research into the issues impacting the economic security of Texas women and families will continue to guide its work. The biannual Economic Issues for Women in Texas Report provides corporate and community leaders, and state and local lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. In addition, Texas Womens Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the mission-aligned investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds in a values-based portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits that align with its mission. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now.

Southlake Shoppers Get Rare Glimpse of PlainsCapitals One-in-a-Million White Buffalo

Allison Golden — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:51:33 Z

PlainsCapital Banks live mascot, Mo, greeted customers at Central Markets Texas Folks to Texas Forks event in Southlake this weekend. The all-white buffalo drew plenty of attention as shoppers stopped for photos and a chance to meet one of the banks most recognizable ambassadors.

Mo has represented PlainsCapital since 2006, when the bank began using a live buffalo mascot to reflect its strength and momentum. The current Mo is an exceptionally rare white bison - the odds of one being born naturally are estimated at one in a million. Appearances at events such as the State Fair of Texas and the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo have made him a popular draw across Texas.

PlainsCapital Bank has served Southlake and the surrounding Tarrant County area for more than a decade, building lasting relationships with local families and businesses.

Our commitment to Southlake goes beyond banking, said Tom Pulley, executive vice president at PlainsCapital Bank Southlake. Events like this give us a chance to connect with families in a more personal way, and having Mo here really helps bring those moments to life.

When not appearing at public events, Mo lives on a ranch near Weatherford with handler Bree Worthington Clay, who has cared for him since he was three days old.

PlainsCapitals Southlake branch is located at 550 Reserve St. and serves customers with private banking, wealth management, deposit, and commercial lending services.

DQ RESTAURANTS IN TEXAS INVITE FANS TO SHARE THEIR THIS IS MY BLIZZARD STORY

Mary Jane Coker — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 08:12:25 Z

DQ restaurants in Texas are celebrating the traditions, sweet moments and one-of-a-kind memories Texans have shared over the years with the launch of the This Is My Blizzard summer campaign.

From post-game celebrations and birthday traditions to after-school treats, first dates, family road trips and summer stops on the way home, DQ restaurants in Texas have been part of generations of memories across the Lone Star State. Texans are invited to share their favorite Blizzard Treat memory for a chance to be spotlighted in the official This Is My Blizzard summer campaign.

DQ restaurants in Texas have always been gathering places where Texans celebrate milestones, continue family traditions, and make everyday moments a little sweeter, said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators Council. With the This Is My Blizzard campaign, we want to hear directly from our fans and share the fun, heartfelt and uniquely Texas stories that make the Blizzard Treat so special.

Fans are encouraged to submit their Blizzard Treat stories that may include family moments, celebrations, generational stories, quirky traditions, favorite flavor combinations or other meaningful moments connected to DQ restaurants in Texas.

Stories may be submitted by August 31, 2026 at DQTexas.com/myblizzard.

As Texans reflect on their favorite Blizzard Treat memories, DQ restaurants in Texas are also celebrating the season with the Summer Blizzard Collection, featuring the new Strawberry Angel Food Cake Blizzard® Treat, the Smores Blizzard® Treat and the Cotton Candy Blizzard® Treat.

For more than 78 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been friendly gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats and create fond memories. To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, X or Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

About Texas Dairy Queen Operators Council

There are few brands as iconic as the DQ brand. Innovative DQ treats and eats, along with the unique DQ restaurant concepts, have positioned DQ restaurants in Texas as a leader in the quick service restaurant industry. The Texas Dairy Queen Operators' Council is a nonprofit organization made up of DQ franchisees operating in Texas. The Council develops the advertising and marketing program for DQ franchisees in Texas and controls the Texas Country Foods menu along with managing supply/distribution for the DQ restaurants in Texas. The DQ restaurants in Texas are franchised by American Dairy Queen Corporation and the DQ franchise system includes approximately 7,000 franchised locations in the United States, Canada, and more than 20 other countries.

Susser Bank Appoints Daniel Voigt As Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager

Mary Jane Coker — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 08:06:07 Z

Susser Bank Strengthens Dallas Commercial Banking Team with Appointment of Daniel Voigt,

Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager

Susser Bank has appointed Daniel Voigt as Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager, joining the banks Dallas team. Voigt brings nearly two decades of experience serving middle-market companies with financing, capital planning and strategic advice.

Based at Susser Banks Dallas headquarters at Old Parkland East Campus, Voigt will focus on expanding relationships with privately held businesses and entrepreneurs across North Texas, helping clients navigate growth opportunities through the banks relationship-driven approach and comprehensive banking capabilities.

Daniel's experience advising middle-market businesses, combined with his commitment to building long-term client relationships, aligns closely with the way we serve our clients at Susser Bank, said Carl Cravens, President and Chief Banking Officer of Susser Bank. As businesses across North Texas continue to seek strategic banking partners, Daniel's perspective and expertise will further strengthen our ability to deliver thoughtful, guidance and long-term value.

Susser Bank has built a strong reputation for delivering highly personalized service and long-term partnership to its clients," said Voigt. I look forward to joining a team that shares my commitment to helping businesses succeed and supporting their continued growth.

Throughout his career, Voigt has worked with privately held and founder-led companies across a variety of industries, advising clients on commercial lending, treasury management and capital needs. His background includes leadership roles in commercial banking and corporate finance, where he partnered with business owners and management teams to support expansion, improve liquidity and achieve long-term objectives.

Voigt earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Economics from Baylor Universitys Hankamer School of Business. He is active in the community and has been involved with professional and civic organizations including the Park Cities Rotary, Dallas YMCA, Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, and Highland Park Presbyterian Church.

Susser Bank is a Texas-based company, founded in 1959, offering a full suite of personal and commercial banking solutions with offices across Texas Dallas, Arlington, Austin, Bedford, Corpus Christi, Fort Worth, Garland, Houston, Plano, Round Rock and San Antonio. The company is a diversified bank with robust capital, liquidity, and leading-edge technology led by the Susser family and a legacy of six generations of Texas entrepreneurs. Susser Bank is dedicated to building long-term client relationships and providing outstanding financial solutions that make Texas stronger.

More information is available at susserbank.com.

Susser Bank Appoints Daniel Voigt As Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager

Mary Jane Coker — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 08:06:07 Z

Susser Bank Strengthens Dallas Commercial Banking Team with Appointment of Daniel Voigt,

Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager

More information is available at susserbank.com.

Fairmont Dallas Unveils Venetian Champions Club in the Iconic Venetian Room

Culver Public Relations — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:38:13 Z

Fairmont Dallas Unveils Venetian Champions Club in the Iconic Venetian Room

Legendary Dallas venue transformed into an elevated fanzone and luxury sports lounge

Fairmont Dallas announces the debut of the Venetian Champions Club, an elevated fanzone and hospitality-driven sports lounge inside the legendary Venetian Room. Known for hosting high-profile events and drawing some of the most recognizable names in entertainment, including Tony Bennett, Tina Turner, Frank Sinatra, and Ella Fitzgerald, the iconic 4,400-square-foot space will transform into Dallas premier destination for the worlds largest sporting event.

From June 11 through July 19, Venetian Champions Club will celebrate Dallas on a global scale. Open to the public throughout the tournament, it will offer an accessible indoor destination where fans, travelers, and locals can gather for a premium hospitality experience centered around the global game in the heart of the acclaimed Dallas Arts District.

The Venetian Room will be completely reimagined into an elevated, high-energy sports lounge featuring a massive 11-by-20-foot main screen, turf flooring, multiple flat-screen televisions, and air conditioning to beat the Texas heat for every match. Guests can enjoy a full bar program featuring specialty cocktails themed around the countries playing in the tournament, local brews on tap at three bars, and daily culinary specials inspired by the nations competing that day.

Designed to blend the excitement of a stadium watch party with the sophistication of a luxury hospitality experience, Venetian Champions Club will also feature interactive experiences, including foosball tables, cornhole, lounge seating, and communal gathering areas designed for fans to cheer on their favorite teams together.

As a cornerstone of the Dallas Arts District for more than five decades, Fairmont Dallas is thrilled to transform the historic Venetian Room into the Venetian Champions Club, said David Sher, General Manager of Fairmont Dallas. As one of the citys most iconic gathering spaces, the Venetian Room has welcomed celebrities, changemakers, and cultural icons for generations. We are excited to continue that legacy and welcome fans into an unforgettable destination where fans from our city and from around the world can gather, celebrate, and enjoy sporting matches together.

Conveniently located in downtown Dallas, Fairmont Dallas places guests steps from many of the citys most celebrated cultural destinations, including the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, and Winspear Opera House. The hotel also offers close access to Klyde Warren Park, Perot Museum of Nature and Science, American Airlines Center, and an array of award-winning dining and retail destinations. Travelers can easily walk to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system for quick, convenient transportation throughout the city, including direct service to Fan Festival in Fair Park, all without the need for a car.

Fairmont Dallas features 545 guest rooms, a rooftop terrace with a garden and Junior Olympic-sized pool, and 70,000 square feet of meeting space. The hotel is home to the Pyramid Restaurant and an on-site Starbucks, making it the premier destination for both business and leisure travelers. In 2024, Fairmont Dallas celebrated its 55th anniversary as one of Dallas most iconic hospitality destinations.

BOOK REVIEW: UP FROM HELL (ECHOES OF THE PAST: CRIMES IN CENTRAL TEXAS, #1) by Joan Moran

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 17:29:20 Z

Up From Hell

Echoes of the Past: Crimes in Central Texas, #1

Joan Moran

A young boy comes of age in not-so-sleepy Central Texas.

Up From Hell is the first book in author Joan Morans gritty crime fiction series, Echoes of the Past: Crimes in Central Texas, featuring a young boy who was dealt a rough start in life but who has a plan to turn it all around and make the most of his dream to become a good police officer. When Neil Dixons mother goes into the hospital to treat her drug addiction, the eight-year-old is befriended by Las Vegas Police Sergeant Jordan Finch, who gets him to a safe, stable place before arranging for a more permanent solution with the boys aunt and her family in distant Jarrell, Texas. Finchs example and kindness become Neils ideal for his own future, and as he grows, he plots a course to become a police officer in his new hometown. But law enforcement in small towns in dusty Central Texas was a whole different beast at that time. Corruption was rife through the little communities, and the bad guys went unpunished while the cops took money to look the other way. Still, Neil pursued his dream, with the ultimate goal of changing the way justice was served, from the inside out.

Told from Neils point of view, his experiences and impressions from his early life are hard to read, even as Neil keeps himself together and strives for more. After leaving his life in Las Vegas behind, things improve marginally for him, but his aunt is also fighting her own battles with an alcoholic live-in boyfriend. Still just kids, Neil and his cousin, Jack, take the necessary steps toward getting her the help she needs.

One of the hallmarks of small-town living is that neighbors help neighbors, and Neil is the beneficiary of some good people who want to give the honest, hard-working kid a break, which is how he comes by his first job and first modes of transportation. Another small-town element is the undeniable familiarity; everyone knows everyone else, their families, and their business. This truth both helps and hinders Neil as he progresses toward his goal.

Because of his unbuffered childhood, Neil had to grow up quickly, but along with the hard knocks, he gained a keen sense of survival and a strong intuition that served him well. I liked how Neil could see through most peoples smokescreens of lies, half-truths, and other obfuscations to get to the heart of what was going on.

The story moves at an even pace as Neil grows to maturity, punctuated with exciting encounters with criminals, potential danger, and obstacles laid by those who should have been on his side. The young man experiences even more tragedy in his life, yet keeps rebounding even stronger than before. I look forward to more of his crime-stopping adventures.

I recommend UP FROM HELL to readers of character-driven crime fiction.

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

Texas and the American Revolution Celebrate USA 250

Tom Keener — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 19:00:00 Z

Celebrate USA 250 as Texas State Historian Dr. Richard McCaslin discusses how Spanish Coahuila y Tejas played a pivotal role in helping American patriots secure independence from Great Britian at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 11, at 300 N. Allen Drive.

A former Texas State Historical Association professor of Texas history at the University of North Texas, McCaslin has written or edited twenty-two books, including Tullis Award-winner Tainted Breeze: The Great Hanging at Gainesville, Texas, October 1862 and Pulitzer nominee Lee in the Shadow of Washington.

Dr. McCaslin observes, Without the support of several nationsmost notably France, Spain, and the Netherlandsthe United States would never have won its independence from Great Britain. Gov. Bernardo de Gálvez of Spanish Louisiana, an officer with experience in and support from Texas, contributed to the patriot cause with a successful military campaign on the Gulf Coast that led the British to return Florida to Spain, reversing a territorial loss of twenty years earlier.

Sponsored by the Allen Public Library, DAR Bernardo de Gálvez and Allen Quilters Guild, the program is free. Call 214-509-4911 for more information.

BOOK REVIEW: THE TERRA COTTA THEFT (SUCCULENT SLEUTH COZY MYSTERY, #0.5) by Iris March

KAREN SIDDALL — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:32:35 Z

The Terra Cotta Theft

Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery, #0.5

Iris March

Unique introduction to the series' characters as children.

When money from the register at Patty's Plant Place suddenly goes missing, how will Grandpa Will discover who the thief is among those present in the store? This is the tricky question Will Flores faces when the stack of twenties disappears, and there are plenty of suspects, both employees and customers, to consider and rule out.

The Terra Cotta Theft is a prequel to author Iris March's fun and satisfying Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery series, featuring Will's granddaughters, Molly, May, and Shannon (the twins' cousin), and their families and friends. This story introduces the main characters as children, other characters that will become recurring faces in later books, and the business that will eventually become theirs.

A short story, the plot sets up the series' background and establishes close family relationships and long-held ties with their customers and neighboring business owners. There is a cozy, comfortable hometown-family feel right away, and I was easily drawn into the story. The characters are regular people, engaging and familiar, with no one over the top. My interest was immediately piqued by the prospect of reading about their further adventures as adults.

I recommend TERRA COTTA THEFT to readers of cozy mysteries, especially fans of the SUCCULENT SLEUTH series.

Readers can obtain their own copy of the story by signing up for the author's newsletter on her website at https://irismarchbooks.com/newsletter-sign-up/.

For more reviews, visit my blog at Boys' Mom Reads!

DQ Restaurants In Texas Welcome Back The Drumstick Blizzard Treat This June

Mary Jane Coker — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 14:17:57 Z

School is out for summer and DQ restaurants in Texas have the perfect reason to add a sweet treat to your summer plans. This June, the fan-favorite Drumstick® Blizzard Treat returns as the June Blizzard of the Month for a limited time through June 30.

This nostalgic summer treat blends choco-covered Drumstick pieces with DQs world-famous soft serve. The sweetness from DQs signature soft serve with the salty crunch of peanuts brings those iconic flavors of a classic Drumstick cone to the next level.

Just one red spoonful of the Drumstick Blizzard Treat will have DQ fans coming back for more. This Blizzard Treat captures the ultimate feeling of summertime nostalgia, bringing back memories of neighborhood bike rides, afternoons at the pool, backyard cookouts, and all the sweet moments that make summertime the best time.

It is always exciting to bring back a fan favorite like the Drumstick Blizzard Treat, said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators Council. The sweet and salty flavor combination is hard to beat, making it the perfect treat to enjoy with friends and family this month.

For fans wanting an extra taste of nostalgia , DQ restaurants in Texas are also serving up the Breakfast Treat Collection, featuring the Choco Frosted Donut Blizzard Treat, Fruity Pebbles Shake, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch Dipped Cone.

For more than 78 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been friendly, gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats and create fond memories. To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, X or Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

About Texas Dairy Queen Operators Council

BOOK REVIEW: THE CORPSE BY THE CREEK (SUCCULENT SLEUTH COZY MYSTERY, #3) by Iris March

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 31 May 2026 15:14:44 Z

The Corpse by the Creek

Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery, #3

Iris March

Volunteers on a stream monitoring outing find a dead body.

The Corpse by the Creek is the third book in author Iris March's fun and comfortable Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery series, featuring two twin sisters and their cousin who own and operate a small-town plant nursery they inherited jointly from their grandmother, who started the business. With the nursery's parking lot adjoining that for a trailhead of the Buckeye Trail, the women are often the first to know if there's trouble on the trail, even more so when one of them discovers the body of a murder victim while out learning to monitor the local waterways.

When Molly and her husband, Scott, are walking the route on part of the Buckeye Trail to their next stream monitoring site with their trainer, Heath Reed, they come across the body of a man in a suit lying face down and deceased. Soon, the victim is identified as a much-disliked property developer who has been riding roughshod over tenants' feelings in the commercial buildings he has been acquiring in the area, including those next door to Patty's Plant Place. Feeling somewhat invested in what happened to the man, Molly, May, and the rest of the gang at the nursery begin snooping around. But things become critical when they discover that cousin Shannon was the man's real estate agent for many of his recent acquisitions, and the police detective on the case is looking hard in her direction.

Molly is an interesting and earnest young woman, and though she runs her own business, she still finds the time and dedication to participate in worthwhile, altruistic endeavors, such as volunteering for water monitoring with Scott. They are both inspired and renewed by spending time in the great outdoors and want to make a difference. Her twin sister, May, is the busy mother of two school-age children and manages the administrative side of their business, as well as the deep dives into internet research they need to solve this crime. Although close to her sister, as one imagines, May tended to be critical of Molly's every move in this story, while Molly and Shannon, who is normally the sisters' joint antagonist, finally had a genuine moment to air their thoughts and feelings. Hopefully, this is a turning point in the cousins' relationships, and May is not stepping in as a replacement source of tension.

The story moves along at a brisk pace, with the murder victim's discovery occurring early on and the sisters deciding right away to investigate. Since May's husband, Detective Joe Sato, is not assigned to the case, they have lost their special connection to what is officially happening. They are warned off, but did a pretty good job of lifting information and clues from legitimately available sources and targeted chats with people they know who had deals with the dead man. They also were pretty good about taking another person with them whenever they went off on one of their investigatory fishing expeditions. With the victim's terrible reputation, there was no shortage of suspects to rule out, and the big reveal, while in a public place, was still a doozy.

Although this is the third book, it works well as a standalone, so readers new to the series can read and enjoy it on its own. I recommend THE CORPSE BY THE CREEK to cozy mystery fans, especially those who enjoy gardening, plants, or advocating for water quality.

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

Texas A&M University College of Dentistry shares 5 things your dentist knows from your mouth

Stephanie Patrick — Sat, 30 May 2026 16:18:00 Z

Mouths tell dentists a lot about peoples oral hygiene habits. Dr. John Safar, clinical faculty in comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, shared five things they reveal to dentists.

Whether youre flossing

Flossing right before your dental appointment doesnt fool the dentist. The dentist knows you skipped flossing for months.

Puffy, swollen and bleeding gums are signs you arent flossing, Safar said. Bleeding gums are signs that plaque has been sitting there for a while. Hardened tartar between teeth, bad breath, and even early cavities in those tight spaces are also clues.

Healthy gums are pink and smooth, and they dont bleed with gentle brushing or flossing.

Its never too late to begin a flossing routine to help remove the bacteria your toothbrush cant reach and keep your gums firm, healthy, and comfortable, Safar said.

If you may have cancer

When you go to the dentist for your twice-a-year cleaning, its more than maintaining a healthy mouth. The dentist is looking for signs of cancer.

Swollen lymph nodes and lumps are red flags, he said. Unusual sores that arent healing or lesions or white patches on the inside of the mouth or gums are also concerning.

That you snore

The shape of your tongue can reveal how well you breathe at night. If you snore, you might notice little waves or dents along the sides of your tongue. This is called a scalloped tongue, and it can happen when your tongue presses against your teeth because your airway is slightly restricted during sleep, Safar said.

Treatment could be as easy as fabricating a custom snoring device, he said.

A scalloped tongue can also be caused by teeth grinding, a naturally larger tongue, dehydration, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, or sleep apnea.

If sleep apnea is a concern, your dentist can work with your medical doctor or a sleep specialist to decide whether further testingsuch as a sleep studywould be helpful, Safar said.

That youre anemic

Pale gums or a pale, smooth or sore tongue can be signs of anemia, often caused by low iron. Without enough iron or vitamin B12, mouth tissues can look pale, feel tender and become more prone to infection; a severe B12 deficiency may cause a beefy red tongue. If untreated, it can lead to nerve problems such as numbness or tingling in hands and feet. Anemia can also change how things taste, sometimes causing a metallic taste.

A blood test can determine the diagnosis of this easily treatable condition, Safar said.

Nearly 10% of people over the age of 2in the U.S. have anemia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

That you have a soda habit

Soft drinks are acidic and can slowly wear away tooth enamel. With repeated exposure, they can start to affect the underlying dentin and even some fillings.

You dont need to give them up completely, but limiting how often you sip them is key, Safar said. Water, milk, and unsweetened tea are the safest everyday choices, while sodas, sports drinks, and citrus juices are best saved for occasional use. If you do have them, drink them with meals, avoid sipping over long periods, and rinse with water afterward.

Early enamel softening can often be strengthened again with fluoride and saliva, he said. Once enamel or dentin is worn away, the loss is permanent and needs dental treatment for repair.

A Local Family Just Launched the App Park Cities Has Been Waiting For

Jen Munoz — Fri, 29 May 2026 20:39:07 Z

It starts with a stomach-drop. You call your dog and he doesnt come. The next hour turns into panic - photos uploaded to Facebook, posts dropped in Nextdoor and every neighborhood group within range - a fear that doesnt ease until your furry family member is back safely at home.

Park Cities residents Jen and Zach Munoz know that feeling, and they set out to fix it. Their app, Furmiliar Faces, launched this spring as a private, hyperlocal pet registry designed specifically for neighborhoods like ours and the project has been a family affair from the start, with the Munoz boys, Cole and Jaxon, knocking on doors across Park Cities to invite neighbors in. The problem the Munoz family is addressing is more common than most pet owners realize.

According to AKC Reunite, roughly 1 in 3 pets go missing at some point in their lifetime and most of the time it isnt dramatic. A lawn crew props the gate. A delivery driver doesnt fully latch the door. A kid runs in from the pool and forgets to close it behind them. Park Cities is luckier than most: local police carry microchip scanners, which can get a chipped pet home in minutes. But the chip is only as good as the registration behind it. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that roughly 40% of microchipped pets arent registered in an active database, and that the leading reason chipped pets dont make it home is an out-of-date phone number on file. AVMA research found that lost dogs with current chips are returned at a rate of 52%, compared with just 22% without and for cats the gap is even more dramatic, 38% versus less than 2%. When the chip fails, the only thing left is whether a neighbor recognizes the face on the loose.

Park Cities is a neighborhood where people actually know their neighbors, said Jen Munoz, who co-founded the company with her husband Zach. They wave on walks. They remember your dogs name. But even here, theres a gap. When a pet slips out, the neighbors who could help have no idea who he belongs to or how to reach you.

Furmiliar Faces closes that gap. Pet owners sign up, register their pets, and the neighborhood quietly learns who they are. If a dog ever pulls a Houdini, the people who spot him already know his name, know his family, and know how to get him home. No frantic posting. No waiting and hoping. Just a faster path back.

Here's how it works: every pet on the block gets a profile - photo, name, breed, color. Spot a loose dog and think you know who it belongs to? Filter the registry by breed and color to find them, and ping the owner directly. Don't recognize the dog? Snap a photo and trigger a stray-pet alert to nearby Furmiliar Faces households. Either way, the owner hears in seconds, not hours.

The Munoz family started Furmiliar Faces in Park Cities, and will be opening Furmiliar Faces up block by block. Households in other neighborhoods can sign up too - theyll be the first to know when the registry reaches their street. Signing up takes about 60 seconds at www.furmiliarfaces.app and is free, always. Even households without pets are encouraged to join. Every set of eyes on the block makes the whole network stronger. For questions or to learn more, contact support@furmiliarfaces.app.

BOOK REVIEW: WEIRD STORIES OF STRANGE WOMEN by Christine Hart

KAREN SIDDALL — Fri, 29 May 2026 16:56:44 Z

Weird Stories of Strange Women

Christine Hart

A great collection of spooky short stories featuring women at various stages of their lives.

Weird Stories of Strange Women by Christine Hart is an enthralling collection of unusual, spooky tales featuring women at various stages of adulthood: maiden, mother, crone. These bite-sized stories are perfect for reading when you dont have a lot of time to delve into longer works, and are so well written and self-contained, youll still come away satisfied from every entry. Hart provides four stories of varying lengths and plots for each phase of womens adult lives, and each delivers an entertaining reading experience.

While the maiden stories focus on younger protagonists and the mother tales, of course, feature women in their child-rearing era, the crone phase may be something of an oddity or unfamiliar to some readers. These stories tell of women in their middle or later years who have embarked on new independent lives, focused on themselves, having done their time as caretakers. I enjoyed all the stories, no matter the life phase they represented, though elements of some will resonate more with readers going through similar stages of life. The Crystal Miners, the first story in the book, and Her Lunar Bloom really gave me the shivers, though.

I recommend WEIRD STORIES OF STRANGE WOMEN for readers of short stories with a spooky twist.

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

BOOK REVIEW: DEAD MAN'S GOSPEL by Reno Bachman

KAREN SIDDALL — Fri, 29 May 2026 16:21:52 Z

Dead Man's Gospel

Reno Bachman

This gritty Western fiction tale absolutely stuns with carefully crafted prose, an eye for vivid mental images, and a compelling plot.

In Dead Man's Gospel by Reno Bachman, Timothy Gospel, a damaged young man who grew up in the orbit of a charismatic and powerful man known as The Preacher, is on the trail of one of his former associates, the outlaw queen, Mad Dog Maggie. Maggie had once shown Timothy and his mother a small but inexplicable kindness when they needed it most, and with vengeance-seeking men hunting him, he hopes to find sanctuary with her one more time. Meanwhile, two Pinkerton men have been commissioned to track down the Black Gunman, who is wanted for murder. As his trail overlaps Timothy's, the Pinkertons are reeled into both cases, but will justice be served when the journeys finally converge?

Once again, author Reno Bachman absolutely stuns with carefully crafted prose and an eye for vivid mental images. You quickly realize Timothy Gospel is wounded beyond the physical marks left by The Preacher's deliberately inflicted burns, punishment meted out for the theft of a loaf of bread. Timothy also carries the voice of the (now) dead Preacher in his head, his constant companion and antagonist. The voice takes over at times, and when Timothy regains awareness, he discovers he's committed terrible acts while declaiming scripture.

On his trail (because Timothy is traveling in the wake of the elusive Black Gunman) are the two Pinkerton men, Bates and Harker. Their initial assignment is to apprehend the gunman, but as they search for his whereabouts, they are encouraged to include Timothy Gospel in their hunt, as he has killed the son of a powerful and influential man with connections to make that happen.

The travels of the pursued and pursuers take them through the post-Civil War West, a landscape with few and far between small towns, many abandoned and derelict or the hidden havens for outlaws, with vast expanses uninhabited by while settlers, yet populated nonetheless by indigenous peoples. The author imbues every step of their journeys with the feeling that they are being watched and tracked, only one wrong move from disaster.

While a satisfied reader, I did have some issues with the story's readability, as the page layout made it difficult to follow conversations at times. Having to re-read passages really slowed the flow of the dialogue and, consequently, the book itself. Additionally, the author doesn't identify some characters by name when they are first introduced, instead using the generic "a man" or "the man." Later, when new names were mentioned without introductory context, I had to backtrack to figure out who he meant, not knowing whether they would prove to be pivotal characters later or not.

This book follows the trail of consequences established by events in the author's previous work set in this universe, The Boy, so readers should read that novella before jumping into this story, and although this book doesn't end in a cliffhanger, a late-hour plot twist guarantees there's more story yet to come.

I recommend DEAD MAN'S GOSPEL to readers of Western fiction.

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

BOOK REVIEW: THE VIVALDI CIPHER (VATICAN SECRET ARCHIVE THRILLERS, #1) by Gary McAvoy

KAREN SIDDALL — Fri, 29 May 2026 15:27:38 Z

The Vivaldi Cipher

Vatican Secret Archives Thrillers, #1

Gary McAvoy

A centuries-old art theft and forgery operation is uncovered at the Vatican.

The Vivaldi Cipher is the first book in author Gary McAvoys riveting new series, the Vatican Secret Archives Thrillers, and reunites two sleuthing partners from his earlier Magdalene Chronicles, Father Michael Dominic and Hana Sinclair. While on a working holiday in Venice with his good friend, investigative reporter Hana Sinclair, Jesuit priest Father Michael Dominic is consulted by his old seminary friend on a tricky matter regarding the sanctity of the confessional and the devastating information he received during a dying mans last confession.

Father Carol Rinaldi had been called to the bedside of the capo of the Veneta Camorra (Venetian Mafia), whose regular confessor was unavailable. With fear in his eyes, he revealed the details of a centuries-old art theft and forgery operation that had been swapping valuable works from the Vatican Museums collection for forgeries right under the nose of the Holy See. His last request is that his confessor put an end to it all. But if the mans story is true, and how could it not, how could this have been going on undiscovered for so long without insider help? The answers may come from an unexpected source, hidden within the musical works of the famed Venetian composer and priest, Antonio Vivaldi himself. But as Michael, Hana, and their friends begin to ask questions, they soon discover someone will do anything to keep this operation a secret, including committing murder.

Father Michael and Hana are both such engaging characters, long-time friends whove been through a lot together, and it was interesting watching them navigate their strictly friends relationship amid the suspense and danger that ensued. A warning: the author is not afraid to sacrifice high-profile characters for his story, and that really ups the stakes in an already high-stakes affair.

The plot escalates quickly, and the action keeps going nonstop. The authors vivid descriptions of the iconic settings around Venice and during Carnival really brought the mental images I constructed to life (while also providing important tips for those considering a visit to the ancient city). As the reader knows from the start what the crime is, who at the Vatican is actually involved in this old, established scam becomes the important question.

Although this book continues a partnership from an earlier trilogy, it works well as a standalone, and readers new to the characters should be able to read and enjoy this new adventure without having to hunt down the previous books first. However, it sure did make me want to when I was done!

I recommend THE VIVALDI CIPHER to readers of mysteries and thrillers, especially those who enjoy stories involving the clergy or the Catholic Church.

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

BOOK REVIEW: SINNER'S PRAYER (DAN RANDOLPH/GREG ZHU MYSTERY, #2) by Dwain Lee

KAREN SIDDALL — Thu, 28 May 2026 16:54:21 Z

Sinner's Prayer

Dan Randolph/Greg Zhu Mystery, #2

Dwain Lee

An unresolved 40-year-old disappearance becomes a case of murder.

Sinner's Prayer is the second book in author Dwain Lee's Dan Randolph/Greg Zhu Mysteries and takes the series in a more serious, grittier direction than the debut, as a 40-year-old disappearance becomes a murder case. When Parkvale Presbyterian Church must make repairs to the plumbing under a mid-1980s renovation, workers find more than a water leak; they also uncover human remains buried under the foundation. Working on the theory that the victim is someone associated with the church, the police turn to Pastor Dan Randolph for information that might lead to the corpse's identification. They soon discovered the victim was a very active former parishioner but a divisive figure among the rest of the church family at that time: some of whom weren't shedding any tears over his demise.

Told via a dual timeline, the events leading up to the actual murder are set in 1985, with the eventual discovery of the body occurring in the fall of 2024, in the days leading up to the presidential election. In the 1985 storyline, readers are introduced to the figures involved in the traumatic circumstances of ongoing sexual abuse of kids in the youth group by a trusted leader. This earlier timeframe paints a picture of what the LGBT community faced at that time. AIDS was an epidemic, with rampant misinformation, fear, and death everywhere, and many gays and lesbians remained closeted rather than being able to live their lives authentically.

In 2024, Dan is neck-deep in shepherding the church family through the discovery of what was going on right under everyone's noses and the feared ramifications of a second Trump term for the LGBT community. Just as the nation was divided, so were the members of Parkvale Presbyterian, and emotions are high. Within days of the discovery under the church flooring, a long-time, much-beloved church member loses her adult son, a young man fondly remembered by the parishioners but with a traumatic history with the dead man, to suicide. Dan becomes a target of some of the frustration, and he wonders whether he's helping anyone at all as his second career as a minister approaches retirement. Peeks into Dan and Greg's daily life reinforces what a strong, loving partnership they've found and nurtured. Along with Greg's business and craft as a luthier, a musical thread is woven throughout the story, with a curated playlist of songs to introduce each chapter as well as musical numbers that were featured in the events of the plot.

This second outing is built on tough, possibly triggering topics for sensitive readers: sexual abuse, spousal abuse, religious institutions' historical responses to allegations of such, acceptance of LGBT parishioners, and the religious beliefs regarding suicide. While the plot involves a complex cold-case murder, most of the story's suspense and tension center on these issues. Their impacts are pivotal, with paralyzing moral and ethical struggles that prevented much-needed action.

While not a cozy mystery nor a typical cold-case investigation, SINNER'S PRAYER has elements of both and will appeal to mystery readers looking for a serious, grittier tale, especially those interested in historical settings and church- or LGBT community-based stories.

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

BOOK REVIEW: THE LAST FATAL HOUR by Jan Matthews

KAREN SIDDALL — Wed, 27 May 2026 19:24:30 Z

The Last Fatal Hour

Jan Matthews

A newlywed society matrons secret investigation into the mysterious death of an old friend uncovers more than she ever imagined.

The Last Fatal Hour is an excellent new historical mystery by author Jan Matthews and follows the efforts of newlywed Leona Gladney to discover what caused the death of her elderly, longtime friend, society matron Daphne Van Wyn, who died suddenly one night under suspicious circumstances, and her jewelry was stolen. Warned away from involving herself in the police investigation by both the lead detective and her husband, Leona is unable to leave it alone when Daphnes grandson and heir accuses her of taking the jewelry. Shunned by all of Brooklyn society, her determination to find out what happened the night of Daphnes death is further cemented when the grandsons wife approaches her with suspicions that her husband is somehow involved in his grandmothers death.

Leona Gladney is one of the most intriguing main characters Ive encountered in forever. The granddaughter of a renowned poet, abolitionist, and Transcendentalist, Leona, at age 17, ran away from her boarding school, disguised herself as a young man, joined the Union Army, and fought alongside regular soldiers until she was discovered after being wounded at Gettysburg. She struggles with what is now called PTSD, suffering moments where she believes shes back on the battlefield. Her mothers family comes from the social elite of Boston, who covered for her absence from school and home by claiming she was serving as a nurse for the battlefield wounded. She met, married, and eventually lost her beloved husband, Jack, and their only child. After a period of mourning, she has recently remarried. Her new husband, Brooklyn businessman and widower, Gil Gladney, is charming and quite taken with his wifes social status. She adds to her household budget by writing essays and reviews for a local paper, but secretly pens a military-adventure series featuring two young soldiers, Ned and Zed, based on boys she served with who come home. She is interested in publishing her wartime memoirs, but anonymously, as she has never revealed that part of her past to her new husband.

Gil is a traditionalist in their marriage and does not share his burdens with his new wife easily, such as how bad their current financial situation is since his business partner absconded with all their liquid assets. He does not understand Leonas strengths or determination to uncover the truth behind Daphnes death, and spends too much time away from home, working in the city. Throughout the book, I wondered what secrets Gil was keeping from Leona, but I enjoyed their early but infrequent cozy evenings at home together.

Once compelled to take up her own inquiries, Leona makes some major headway in discovering who was behind Daphnes death, answers seemingly denied to the professional police investigator, Detective Gideon Day. I enjoyed how her friend, Ruth Appelman, insisted on accompanying her on her more questionable forays when she could. But her going alone into the house of the spiritualists had me on the edge of my seat every moment. Major plot twists elevate this historical mystery to a 5-star reading experience for me.

I recommend THE LAST FATAL HOUR to readers of historical mysteries.

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

PHOTOS: Rare Footage and Cultural Legacy Take Center Stage at Bergman in Dallas Documentary Event

Dana Cobb — Tue, 26 May 2026 17:02:59 Z

An influential cross-section of Dallas arts patrons, filmmakers, alumni, and cultural supporters gathered on May 20 for an exclusive first-look presentation of the upcoming Ingmar Bergman documentary from acclaimed filmmaker Keith Maitland, celebrating both the legendary Swedish directors cinematic legacy and Dallas unique role in preserving a remarkable chapter of film history.

Held at the historic U.S. Post Office & Courthouse in downtown Dallas, the invitation-only evening served as both an intimate preview of the documentary and a successful fundraiser supporting the films continued production. Funds raised during the event will help support Maitlands upcoming fact-finding and research trip this summer to Bergmans estate in Sweden, where the creative team will continue gathering historical insight and contextual material for the film.

Guests included alumni and supporters connected to Southern Methodist University, The University of Texas at Austin, the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce Texas, and a broad network of North Texas cultural advocates and film supporters.

The documentary draws from rare archival footage captured during legendary filmmaker Ingmar Bergmans historic 1981 visit to SMU as the inaugural recipient of the Meadows Award. The footage includes nearly four hours of intimate conversations and master classes with students, believed to represent the longest filmed interview Bergman ever participated in.

The evening featured select clips from the documentary, followed by a live conversation between Maitland, Bergman in Dallas producer Daniel Laabs, and Swedish producer André Persson discussing Bergmans artistic influence, the significance of the archival footage, and the global cultural impact of the iconic director.

Bergmans influence reaches far beyond cinema, said Maitland during the event. His storytelling shaped generations of filmmakers, artists, writers, and even modern Swedish pop culture. To uncover this remarkable footage in Dallas and share it with audiences today feels both surreal and incredibly meaningful.

The event also highlighted the enduring place Bergman holds within Swedish cultural identity. Widely regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers in cinematic history, Bergmans work helped define Swedens global artistic reputation throughout the 20th century. His films, including The Seventh Seal, Persona, and Fanny and Alexander, continue to influence contemporary directors, television creators, theater artists, and broader Scandinavian popular culture.

Special recognition was given to longtime Dallas arts advocate Pat Porter for her connection to the original Meadows Award programming and her ongoing support of arts and cultural preservation in North Texas. Organizers noted that the rediscovery and restoration of the SMU archival footage would not have been possible without decades of stewardship by individuals connected to the university and Dallas arts community.

Presented in partnership with the Honorary Consulate of Sweden Dallas and the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce Texas, the evening reinforced the strong cultural ties between Sweden and North Texas while celebrating Dallas often overlooked contributions to film history and documentary preservation.

The upcoming documentary continues production and is expected to further explore Bergmans creative philosophy, his influence on generations of filmmakers, and the extraordinary archival discovery housed for decades within SMUs film archive

Texas and the American Revolution - USA 250

Tom Keener — Mon, 25 May 2026 19:00:00 Z

Texas State Historian Dr. Richard McCaslin discusses how Spanish Coahuila y Tejas played a pivotal role in helping American patriots secure independence from Great Britian at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 11, at 300 N. Allen Drive.

Sponsored by the Allen Public Library, DAR Bernardo de Gálvez and Allen Quilters Guild, the program is free. Call 214-509-4911 for more information.