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 45^th 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 45^th 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 45^th Anniversary Gala, visit wokc.org/gala.

There’s only one thing better than summertime, and that’s enjoying your favorite Blizzard® Treat in the sunshine. DQ® restaurants in Texas are kicking off the season with the Summer Blizzard Collection which includes the NEW Strawberry Angel Food Cake Blizzard Treat, the S’mores Blizzard Treat, and the Cotton Candy Blizzard Treat.

The NEW Strawberry Angel Food Cake Blizzard Treat, the official April Blizzard of the Month, blends light and fluffy angel food cake pieces, strawberry and world-famous DQ soft serve finished with whipped topping.This refreshing, sweetness explosion is the answer to those Texas summer days ahead.

Returning to the Blizzard Treat lineup this summer is the classic S’mores Blizzard Treat. Featuring marshmallow-filled DQ chocolate bars and graham cracker swirled together with world-famous DQ vanilla soft serve, this fan-favorite couldn’t stay off the menu for too long.

The Cotton Candy Blizzard Treat is back as well with its signature purple and pink swirl. This summertime favorite has cotton candy sprinkles mixed into world-famous DQ soft serve, making each red spoonful sweeter than the last. 

“Texans look forward to the summertime Blizzard Treat lineup every year,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “As the temperatures warm up, DQ Fans get excited to see what new and returning flavors will appear on our menus for the summer.”  

For those craving something spicy alongside their Blizzard Treat, fans can also try the NEW Spicy Dude Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich available until April 26, or while supplies last. The Spicy Dude Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich features a chicken fried steak cooked to crispy perfection with a bold kick of heat, topped with pepper jack cheese, jalapeños and creamy jalapeño ranch. 

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, 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. 

Park Place Lexus Plano recognized Frisco Independent School District Teachers of the Year, Cassidy Dorain and Katie Ryan. Dorain, an elementary teacher at Scott Elementary School, was named Elementary Teacher of the Year, while Ryan, a teacher at Heritage High School, was honored as Secondary Teacher of the Year. 

The two Frisco ISD teachers were offered their choice to drive a Lexus NX or ES for the 2026 summer, deluxe detail and tank of gas for the winner’s vehicle, two tickets to a Texas Rangers game with a parking pass and access to the Lexus Lounge that includes an “all you can eat” buffet and drinks of choice. The teachers also received four passes to the Dallas Arboretum, and other Park Place swag.

“Ms. Dorain and Ms. Ryan set a powerful example of excellence in action. Their impact reaches far beyond this school year, and it’s a privilege to honor the difference they make every day,” said Chris Brunner, General Manager of Park Place Lexus Plano. “We congratulate all the teachers who show up everyday to ignite a passion in the students to pursue their interests down the road.” 

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.

DQ RESTAURANTS IN TEXAS BRING THE HEAT WITH DEBUT OF

SPICY DUDE CHICKEN FRIED STEAK SANDWICH

Something almost as hot as those scorching Texas summer days is arriving at DQ restaurants in Texas: the official-unofficial state sandwich of Texas. Beginning March 30, fans can try the NEW Spicy Dude Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich at participating DQ restaurants in Texas through April 26, or while supplies last. 

The Spicy Dude Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich features a chicken fried steak cooked to crispy perfection with a bold kick of heat, topped with pepper jack cheese, jalapeños and creamy jalapeño ranch. Packed with flavor and just the right amount of spice, this sandwich will challenge those Texas tastebuds to see who can handle the heat. 

“We know that Texans are no stranger to the heat,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “The Spicy Dude is a fiery twist on the classic Dude Chicken Fried Steak sandwich that DQ fans across Texas already know and love. It’s a must-try for spicy food enthusiasts across the Lone Star State. One bite of this sandwich may have Texans ready to crown it as the official-unofficial state sandwich of Texas.”

Fans can pair the Spicy Dude Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich with their favorite Blizzard Treat or classic DQ Dilly Bar. In April, fans will have the traditional Blizzard Treat menu as well as the NEW Strawberry Angel Food Cake Blizzard Treat, S’mores, and Cotton Candy. 

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, 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.

Women from across North Texas gathered at the Loews Arlington Hotel and Convention Center for the 15th Annual Inspired Women Luncheon. The luncheon’s official theme, “Unmatched,” represented a mindset and commitment to challenge the status quo and embrace possibility, bolstering the belief that leading with confidence and decisive actions can lead to transformative change.

Keynote speaker Conni Reed, founder, CEO & chief creative officer of Consuela, shared the creative journey behind her values-driven company. Reed told the origin story of Consuela and how her artistic talent, paired with rugged authenticity, allowed her to turn her passion into a thriving nearly 20-year-old handbag business.

Headquartered in Austin, TX and Guanajuato, Mexico, Consuela operates on three guiding principles: Create Art, Support and Uplift Women, and Work in Mexico. Reed’s mission and enthusiasm closely aligned with the vision of the Women’s Alliance, reinforcing the event’s focus on believing boldly and acting decisively. 

As Women’s History Month begins, events like this serve as a reminder to celebrate the women who lead, mentor and inspire within the Park Place organization and in the community. Park Place recognizes the incredible women who continue to shape its culture of excellence and contribute to its success every day. 

Park Place Dealerships served as the event’s official luxury vehicle sponsor for the xx year in a row. Park Place Members Lexie Arzamendi, Sarah Celestial, and Josselyn Jimenez attended, taking part in networking opportunities, professional development sessions, and silent auctions.  

About Park Place Dealerships

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and employs more than 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, visitparkplace.com.