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Stephanie Maupin Charles Owen and Pete Bagrow GCTO Stephanie Maupin, Cross Timbers Middle School social studies teacher and GCISD’s Secondary Teacher of the Year, with Charles Owen General Manager of Park Place Lexus Grapevine and Pete Bagrow General Sales Manage Park Place Lexus Grapevine.

Park Place Lexus Grapevine recognized two outstanding educators from Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District for their leadership, commitment, and lasting impact on students. Britt McDougal, P.E. teacher at Timberline Elementary School and GCISD’s Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Stephanie Maupin, social studies teacher at Cross Timbers Middle School and GCISD’s Secondary Teacher of the Year, exemplify the highest standard of excellence in education.

In celebration of their achievements, Park Place Lexus Grapevine is providing each teacher with the use of a new Lexus for the summer. Each teacher also received a complimentary tank of gas, four passes to the Dallas Arboretum, and a $100 gift card to Southlake Town Square and Park Place-branded swag gifts.

“Britt and Stephanie bring an extraordinary level of passion, encouragement, and leadership to their students, creating welcoming environments where young people can grow in confidence and succeed,” said Charles Owen, General Manager of Park Place Lexus Grapevine. “Their influence reaches far beyond the classroom, inspiring students, families and the entire GCISD community.”

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and employs nearly 1,400 Members. Park Place Dealership operates three collision centers, an auto auction, and nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. For more information, visit parkplace.com.

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Drumstick® Blizzard Treat returns as the June Blizzard of the Month.

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 DQ’s world-famous soft serve. The sweetness from DQ’s 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 

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. 

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Park Place Bodywerks in Plano was named 2025 Lexus Certified Collision Center of the Year for the Southern area, recognizing excellence in service, quality and customer satisfaction.
Park Place Bodywerks in Plano was named 2025 Lexus Certified Collision Center of the Year for the Southern area, recognizing excellence in service, quality and customer satisfaction. Park Place Bodywerks demonstrates the highest caliber of craftsmanship and care, upholding the elite standards Lexus requires to earn this award.

“Earning the Lexus Certified Collision Center of the Year Award for the Southern Area is a huge honor as it reflects the skill, discipline, and pride of our Bodywerks team,” said Eric McKenzie, Director of Park Place Bodywerks. “Our technicians are highly trained and restoring a vehicle after an accident requires precision, craftsmanship and trust. Our team understands that every vehicle we return to a client in pristine condition is another opportunity to demonstrate what it means to be Experts in Excellence.” 

Bodywerks is a state-of-the-art collision center with a focus on client satisfaction and service excellence. Technicians and team members bring decades of automotive collision repair experience and expertise to best serve clients and restore vehicles with efficiency and attention to detail. Through a streamlined repair process and detailed walk-through videos explaining repair needs, clients remain informed throughout every stage of the repair process, reinforcing the unparalleled Park Place experience.

Park Place is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in the industry across every aspect of the business, especially when it comes to vehicle repair, restoration and maintenance. The certified technicians at Bodywerks are committed to delivering high-quality repairs using state-of-the-art equipment, and 100% OEM parts. Park Place guarantees each vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition with a focus on safety and precision.

There are three Park Place Bodywerks collision centers across the Metroplex in Dallas, Fort Worth and Plano. Each location services all makes and models of top luxury vehicles. Park Place Bodywerks in Plano was one of five collision centers recognized nationwide. 

About Park Place Dealerships

Founded in 1987, Park Place Dealerships employs more than 1,400 members. Park Place Dealerships operates three collision centers, an auto auction, and nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. Park Place is a part of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Atlanta, GA. Asbury is one of the largest automotive retailers in the U.S. For more information, visit parkplace.com

 

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Left - Right : Heather Marek of Miller Elementary, Plano ISD’s Elementary Teacher of the Year and Stephanie Hirst of Williams High School, Secondary Teacher of the Year

Two exceptional educators from Plano Independent School District were recognized for their outstanding dedication, leadership, and impact on students by Park Place Lexus Plano. Heather Marek of Miller Elementary, Plano ISD’s Elementary Teacher of the Year and Stephanie Hirst of Williams High School, Secondary Teacher of the Year embody the pinnacle of educational excellence. 

In celebration of their achievements, Park Place Lexus is providing each teacher with the use of a new Lexus for the summer, along with a complimentary tank of gas, two tickets to a Texas Rangers game complete with parking and access to an all-inclusive buffet and cocktails, four passes to the Dallas Arboretum, and Park Place-branded swag gifts.

“Heather Marek and Stephanie Hirst represent the passion, leadership, and lasting influence that make great educators,” said Chris Brunner, General Manager of Park Place Lexus “The difference they have made in the lives of students, families and the Plano ISD community is remarkable. Their dedication extends well beyond the classroom, inspiring future generations and creating meaningful impact that will be felt for years to come.” 

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and employs nearly 1,400 Members. Park Place Dealership operates three collision centers, an auto auction, and nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. For more information, visit parkplace.com.

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Employee Recognition Dinner Leigh Ann Unkenholz, Allen High School Teacher of the Year and Christy Wilson, Bolin Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Park Place Lexus recognized two outstanding educators from Allen Independent School District, honoring Christy Wilson of Bolin Elementary and Leigh Ann Unkenholz of Allen High School as the district’s 2026 Teachers of the Year.

Selected for their leadership, unwavering dedication and lasting impact on students, Wilson and Unkenholz exemplify the highest standard of excellence in education. In recognition of their achievements, Park Place Lexus is providing each teacher with the use of a new Lexus throughout the summer, along with a complimentary tank of gas, two tickets to a Texas Rangers game complete with parking and access to an all-inclusive buffet and cocktails, four passes to the Dallas Arboretum, and a curated selection of Park Place-branded gifts.

“Christy Wilson and Leigh Ann Unkenholz exemplify the extraordinary dedication, leadership, and heart that define exceptional educators,” said Chris Brunner, General Manager of Park Place Lexus “The impact Wilson and Unkenholz have made on students, families and the Allen ISD community is truly inspiring. Their commitment to excellence reaches far beyond the classroom, helping shape future generations and strengthen the community for years to come.”

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and employs nearly 1,400 Members. Park Place Dealership operates three collision centers, an auto auction, and nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. For more information, visit parkplace.com.

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Inspired by those nostalgic morning flavors, the NEW Breakfast Collection includes the Fruity Pebbles™ Shake, Cinnamon Toast Crunch™ Dipped Cone, and the Choco Frosted Donut Blizzard® Treat.

Dairy Queen® has turned childhood favorite breakfasts into sweet treats beginning April 27 at participating DQ® restaurants in Texas. Inspired by those nostalgic morning flavors, the NEW Breakfast Collection includes the Fruity Pebbles™ Shake, Cinnamon Toast Crunch™ Dipped Cone, and the Choco Frosted Donut Blizzard® Treat. 

The New! Fruity Pebbles Shake is a dreamy creation featuring the iconic Fruity Pebbles cereal blended with world-famous DQ® soft serve, garnished with whipped topping. This colorful shake transports fans right back to simpler times, sitting at the kitchen table enjoying a spoonful of their favorite cereal in a fun, reimagined way.

Those classic cereal flavors continue with the debut of the New! Cinnamon Toast Crunch Dipped Cone. This treat features vanilla DQ soft serve dipped in a cinnamon flavored coating with cereal bits. To finish it off, the cone is garnished with a Cinnadust, making it a must-try treat.

The New! Choco Frosted Donut Blizzard Treat is the official May Blizzard of the Month and is available through May 30, while supplies last. Chocolate-frosted donut pieces and sprinkles are blended into vanilla DQ soft serve, making it an ideal, indulgent morning-inspired treat.

“We know DQ fans look forward to new, creative treats,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “The Breakfast Collection brings together familiar childhood flavors in a fun, craveable way.” 

Fans looking to pair their breakfast treat with something savory can also enjoy Texas menus classics, including the Hungr-Buster®, Texas T-Brand Tacos® or the Steak Finger Country Basket®.

For nearly 80 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,Twitter 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 7,800 franchised locations in more than 20 other countries. 

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Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer’s Gala Sponsor Appreciation Party Hosts Anne and Bill Seanor Photo credit: Kristina Bowman Photography

Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer hosted an Appreciation Party at the home of Anne and Bill Seanor to celebrate the Host Committee, sponsors, and donors helping make the organization’s 45th Anniversary Gala possible. Guests enjoyed an elegant evening of food and beverages while gathering in support of WOKC’s mission to bring comfort, hope, and significant funding for research to children with cancer and their families.

During the evening, Cindy Brinker Simmons, founder of Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer/Gala Co-Chair, and Gala Co-Chair Karee Sampson shared remarks about the impact of the organization’s work over the past 45 years and the importance of the upcoming gala on Saturday, April 25, at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas. They thanked supporters for helping advance WOKC’s mission from providing Buddy Bags and the Warrior Family Program to funding innovative pediatric cancer research.

The Appreciation Party offered a meaningful opportunity to recognize those whose generosity is helping fuel a milestone year for WOKC and build momentum for a memorable gala evening centered on the theme, “Cancer Does NOT Define ME!”

Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) is partnering with the V Foundation for Cancer Research, which is matching $2 million of WOKC gala proceeds to co-fund a total of $4 million in game-changing pediatric cancer research. Additional funds raised from the gala will support WOKC’s year-round programs, including its signature Buddy Bags and Warrior Family Program, which bring comfort and hope to children with cancer and their families, many of whom are living under the poverty line. 

About WOKC

Founded in 1980, Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer offers comfort and hope to kids with cancer through support programs serving the entire family and funds innovative research leading to new discoveries and treatments in the fight against pediatric cancer. For more information on WOKC, follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or visit WOKC.org.

To learn more about WOKC’s 45th Anniversary Gala to sponsor a table or buy individual tickets, visit wokc.org/gala.

 

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Dallas PULSE returns to Comerica Center on Friday, April 17, to face the Columbus Fury at 7 p.m. CT. Fans can watch the match live on Victory+. This home match will serve as a special “Hearts and Heroes” appreciation night, recognizing military members and healthcare workers in the North Texas community on the court before the first set.

The Dallas PULSE are headed to the postseason in their inaugural season after Dallas (17-6) swept the Omaha Supernovas (11-13) in straight sets on Sunday afternoon, 25-21, 25-21, 25-22. The win marked the PULSE’s seventh sweep of the season and added to the momentum of a team that continues to show why it has become one of Major League Volleyball’s most dangerous contenders.

“I don’t think we could’ve asked for a better start to the season in our first year as a franchise,” said Shannon Winzer, Head Coach for Dallas PULSE. “When we first came together as a team, we said the beauty of this year is we have no past, only beginnings, so let’s make our mark on the league. And we’re doing just that. But our job is far from done, so for now we want to celebrate having clinched a spot in finals but stay in the trenches working to get better.” 

During the Omaha match, Dallas PULSE showed the balance that has made this team so difficult to defend. The PULSE was powered by another standout performance from outside hitters Mimi Colyer and Sofia Maldonado Diaz, who delivered the kind of one-two punch that has become a defining strength for the PULSE all season. Veteran setter Natalia Valentin-Anderson’s leadership and steady presence helped the PULSE hit .320 for the match, the ninth time this season the team has eclipsed a .300 hitting percentage. Kylie Murr continues to anchor the defense and is one of the leading passers in the MLV.

The 2026 Major League Volleyball Championship will be held on the PULSE home court at Comerica Center in Frisco, on Thursday, May 7 with the title match on Saturday, May 9. The winning team earns a one million dollar bonus to be distributed among its roster. Fans can purchase tickets via the TicketMaster website. 

Dallas PULSE returns to Comerica Center on Friday, April 17, to face the Columbus Fury at 7 p.m. CT. Fans can watch the match live on Victory+. This home match will serve as a special “Hearts and Heroes” appreciation night, recognizing military members and healthcare workers in the North Texas community on the court before the first set. 

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

Tickets for the April 17 “Hearts and Heroes” home game are available at  dallaspulsevb.com. Dallas PULSE’s remaining regular season home games will be May 1 and May 3. 

ABOUT BLACK HEART ASSOCIATION

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

ABOUT DALLAS PULSE

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

ABOUT MLV

Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership, and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. 

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Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) is partnering with the V Foundation for Cancer Research as WOKC celebrates its 45th anniversary gala on Saturday, April 25 at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas. The V Foundation is matching $2 million of WOKC gala proceeds to co-fund a total of $4 million in game-changing pediatric cancer research grants.

 

WIPE OUT KIDS’ CANCER SECURES MAJOR COMMITMENT FOR PEDIATRIC CANCER RESEARCH, UNLOCKING $4 MILLION IMPACT 

WOKC and the V Foundation for Cancer Research Partner to Eradicate Pediatric Cancer   

 

Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) is partnering with the V Foundation for Cancer Research as WOKC celebrates its 45th anniversary gala on Saturday, April 25 at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas. The V Foundation is matching $2 million of WOKC gala proceeds to co-fund a total of $4 million in game-changing pediatric cancer research grants. Remaining funds raised from the gala will support WOKC’s year-round programs, including its signature Buddy Bags and Warrior Family Program that provide activities and other much-needed support for kids with cancer and their families, many living under the poverty line. The partnership with the V Foundation underscores WOKC’s continued impact in the pediatric cancer space as the non-profit organization prepares for its gala with the rallying call of “Cancer Does NOT Define ME!” as its theme. 

The research commitment reflects what has set WOKC apart for 45 years: the organization supports children and families in the earliest, most overwhelming moments of a cancer diagnosis while also investing in innovative research that can change outcomes for future patients.

“This $2 million matching opportunity is powerful not only because of its co-funding strength, but because of what $4 million represents in research discoveries for children and families facing pediatric cancer,” said Cindy Brinker Simmons, founder of Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer. “WOKC has always provided comfort and hope for the entire family through its multiple support programs while also relentlessly helping advance research that can lead to better treatments and brighter futures. This match allows WOKC to make an even greater impact in the fight against childhood cancer.” 

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to accelerating best-in-class research that drives real progress for children and their families battling cancer,” said Roger Ferguson, Chief Marketing Officer at the V Foundation. “We’re proud to work alongside WOKC to fund the most promising scientists on the frontlines of pediatric cancer research.” 

WOKC’s 45th Anniversary Gala will be held with Tatiana and Peter Cancro serving as Honorary Chairs. Peter Cancro is the founder of Jersey Mike’s Subs. Through the enormous generosity of the Cancro’s and Jersey Mike’s since 2010, WOKC has been the recipient of over $6 million from them to further its critical mission to eradicate pediatric cancer. 

The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach and ESPN commentator. The V Foundation funds game-changing cancer research grants in North America through a competitive process overseen by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Because an endowment covers administrative expenses, 100% of direct donations is awarded to cancer research and programs to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and save lives. The V Foundation has granted more than $107 million toward innovative childhood cancer research through the Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund. 

About WOKC

Founded in 1980, Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer offers comfort and hope to kids with cancer through support programs serving the entire family and funds innovative research leading to new discoveries and treatments in the fight against pediatric cancer. For more information on WOKC, follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or visit WOKC.org.

To learn more about WOKC’s 45th Anniversary Gala, visit wokc.org/gala.

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From left to right: Bill Beavers, President Prosper ISD Board of Trustees; Ashleigh Turner, Principal Folsom Elementary School; Kim Cortez, Elementary Teacher of the Year; Dr. Holly Ferguson, Superintendent Prosper ISD; James Comport, Park Place Acura; Dr. Carrie Williamson, Executive Director Prosper Education Foundation; Larry Harper, Jostens

Park Place Acura is recognizing two exceptional educators in Prosper Independent School District, honoring Kim Cortez as the district’s 2026 Elementary Teacher of the Year and Hillary Wortham as Secondary Teacher of the Year.

Selected for their leadership, dedication and meaningful impact on students, Cortez and Wortham represent the highest standing of excellence in education. To celebrate their achievement, Park Place Acura is providing each teacher with the opportunity to drive a new Acura ADX or Integra throughout the summer of 2026, along with four passes to the Dallas Arboretum and a selection of Park Place-branded gifts.

“Kim Cortez and Hillary Wortham have each made an extraordinary impact through their commitment to students and their passion for education,” said Donny Lambrecht, General Manager of Park Place Acura. “Through their work, Cortez and Wortham have made a lasting difference for students and families across Prosper ISD. Their commitment to excellence extends far beyond the classroom, shaping students, strengthening the community, and inspiring future generations.”

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and employs nearly 1,400 Members. Park Place Dealership operates three collision centers, an auto auction, and nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. For more information, visit parkplace.com.