Staff & Reader Submitted

Coppell Cross Country Sends Two Runners to State After Strong Region 1 Championship

Patricia Chi — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 05:45:39 Z

Coppell High Schools Cowgirls and Cowboys competed at the UIL 6A Region 1 Cross Country Championship on Monday, Oct. 26, in Lubbock, battling rain and a slippery, muddy course against some of the toughest competition in Texas. Two Coppell athletes earned spots at the State Championship: Maya Easterwood and Sidharth Kerthipati.

With more than 180 runners in each race, the Cowboys finished eighth and the Cowgirls placed 14th among 24 schools in a region known for its depth and competitiveness.

Individual and Team Highlights

Cowgirls Make Historic Return to Regionals

For the first time in seven years, Coppells varsity girls competed at the regional championship as a team. Easterwood led the Cowgirls with a fifth-place finish in 17:55 over 5K, qualifying for State for the fourth time in her high school career.

This varsity girls team was the first team to compete at regionals in 7 years. I am so thrilled that they had the opportunity to race today in Lubbock, Coach Landon Wren said. I told them that now that weve done it, the expectation is we do it every year.

The girls really left it all on the course today. They competed well in adverse conditions. Im excited for Maya qualifying for state once again. She is a FOUR-TIME state qualifier. There are not a whole lot of girls that can say that, Wren added.

Finleigh Sanders finished 43rd in 19:21, and Rachel Stumm took 95th in 20:26. Coach Wren praised both for running their best races of the season. Freshmen Mirabelle Sagal (125th, 21:04) and Angie Nguyen (135th, 21:21) gained valuable regional experience. Bishakha Sinha finished 168th in 23:13; Anusha Patki did not finish.

Cowboys Place Eighth in Deep Regional Field

The varsity boys delivered a strong team performance, placing eighth out of 24 schools. Kerthipati led the Cowboys with a 19th-place finish in 15:52, securing his place at the State Championship.

I am extremely proud of the varsity boys and their 8th place finish. As a group, we may have run our best race of the year, Coach Wren said. Its an extremely tough region, and they should be proud of their performance.

Seniors Diego Morales (41st, 16:17) and Tanish Neelapu (71st, 16:36) closed their high school cross country careers with strong performances. Itsuki Pena finished 75th in 16:38, followed by Alesh Khowala (84th, 16:47), Sam Meier (95th, 16:53) and Abishek Suresh (110th, 17:02).

Im excited for Sid and having the opportunity to run at the state meet, Wren said. He also recognized the seniors final races and the experience gained by the returning runners.

Regional Championship Results

Cowboys 8th of 24 Teams

Sidharth Kerthipati 15:52 (19th) STATE QUALIFIER

Diego Morales 16:17 (41st)

Tanish Neelapu 16:36 (71st)

Itsuki Pena 16:38 (75th)

Alesh Khowala 16:47 (84th)

Sam Meier 16:53 (95th)

Abishek Suresh 17:02 (110th)

Cowgirls 14th of 24 Teams

Maya Easterwood 17:55 (5th) STATE QUALIFIER

Finleigh Sanders 19:21 (43rd)

Rachel Stumm 20:26 (95th)

Mirabelle Sagal 21:04 (125th)

Angie Nguyen 21:21 (135th)

Bishakha Sinha 23:13 (168th)

Anusha Patki DNF

Looking Ahead to State

Coppell now turns its attention to the UIL 6A State Cross Country Championship in Round Rock on Friday, Nov. 6. Easterwood and Kerthipati will represent the Cowgirls and Cowboys against the best runners in Texas.

With many athletes returning next season, Coach Wren and the Coppell program are looking forward to even bigger things in 2027.

Congratulations to every Cowboy and Cowgirl who competed at Regionals, and best of luck to Maya and Sid at State!

Contact Information

For more details or to support Coppell High Schools Cross Country program, please contact:

Patricia Chi

chi.patricia@gmail.com

(469) 831-3709

BOOK REVIEW: RESURRECTON KILL by Laura Joh Rowland

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 01 Nov 2026 15:10:55 Z

Resurrection Kill

Laura Joh Rowland

Riveting tale of mental illness, family secrets, and murder!

Resurrection Kill by Laura Joh Rowland is a riveting new mystery and suspense novel that probes the lengths someone will go to keep the past hidden. In 1953, Dr. Claire Kendall comes to Resurrection Kill Hospital in upstate New York to complete her psychiatric residency in its special program for young women and girls, even though she'd been offered a place at much more prestigious facilities. But Dr. Kendall has an ulterior motive: twelve years earlier, under her original name, she was an inpatient at this very hospital, and she remembers nothing about her time there, only that she has lingering nightmares and terrifying flashbacks of bits and pieces of her experiences. Revealing her past would destroy her career, so she's determined to secretly uncover the truth and, hopefully, heal herself in the process. However, once she starts asking questions, the people she talks to mysteriously start to disappear or die!

Claire is a likable, vulnerable young woman, and despite her deception, she's pure in her desire to help the patients in her care. She's had a tragic life, experiencing the loss of her beloved older brother as well as the accidental death of her mother and estrangement from her father. Alone for over a decade, she craves human connection, but she puts her attraction to fellow resident, Dr. Daniel Tanaka, on hold to protect both their reputations.

The plot moves quickly as Claire pursues her past and begins her residency. Resurrection Kill Hospital is a private, family-run facility, and it is soon revealed to be behind the times in its equipment and the treatments it employs. Homosexuality is still considered a mental illness at this point in history, and one of Claire's patients is a lesbian, involuntarily committed by her family for conversion therapy. The descriptions of the treatments Rory is subjected to are unbelievable and not for the faint of heart. The story is tense, with plot twists around every corner, and I couldn't put this book down until the final resolution and the last secret was revealed.

I recommend RESURRECTION KILL to readers of medical thrillers, mysteries, and suspense.

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

BOOK REVIEW: RESURRECTON KILL by Laura Joh Rowland

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 01 Nov 2026 15:10:55 Z

Resurrection Kill

Laura Joh Rowland

Riveting tale of mental illness, family secrets, and murder!

I recommend RESURRECTION KILL to readers of medical thrillers, mysteries, and suspense.

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

BOOK REVIEW: THE SWAMP GHOST (OLD NEW ORLEANS BOOKSHOP MYSTERY, #1) by Christi Keating Sumich

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 01 Nov 2026 13:35:55 Z

The Swamp Ghost

Old New Orleans Bookshop Mystery, #2

Christi Keating Sumich

A mysterious ghost light in the swamp lures treasure hunters to their deaths.

The Swamp Ghost is the superb first book in author Christi Keating Sumichs Old New Orleans Bookshop Mystery, following up on the full-length prequel that launched earlier this year and features the sleuthing skills of Mary Catherine Whitney, the young matriarch of the family. After their success unraveling the mystery of Dominique Yoos diary and becoming figures of local acclaim for the feat, Mary Catherine and her husband, bookshop owner Tobias, write and publish a popular action/adventure tale of the famed pirate or profiteer Captain Jean Lafitte. Their notoriety, though, led many residents of their hometown of New Orleans to their door in search of their assistance in solving other minor mysteries, and Mary Catherine has skillfully and patiently obliged, despite being in a delicate condition. Regardless of her misgivings and with the birth of her latest child imminent, Mary Catherine is swept into a new mystery, this one involving the appearance of a mysterious blue light in the swamp, pirate treasure, and whispers of paranormal vengeance.

I loved this new adventure for the Whitney family and believe it may be even more exciting than their wonderful introductory story. With Mary Catherine in the lead, the story focuses on her life as a middle-class wife and mother, and on her family in New Orleans in the 1830s. She is a feisty woman, educated by Ursuline nuns, and fully in charge of her family, with a loving husband and two surviving young sons, and her natural wit and sharp observations prepare her well for following the few clues to what is occurring in the swamps around the digging of the New Basin Canal. Still, she is humble and puts her successes down to pure dumb luck. The final reveal of the truth behind the fifolet, the ghostly blue orb, is exciting and satisfying.

The descriptions of New Orleans are vivid and atmospheric, making me want to visit the historic city for myself. The included details of the project and the experiences of the men involved in its construction are eye-opening, and the conditions in which they worked and the lives of the immigrant families waiting for them at home in the city are appalling.

I recommend THE SWAMP GHOST and its sequel 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.

BOOK REVIEW: DEATH HITS THE HIGH NOTES (SWEET TOOTH MURDER MYSTERY, #2) by G.G. Calpo

KAREN SIDDALL — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 14:24:17 Z

Death Hits the High Notes

Sweet TOOTH Murder Mystery, #2

GG Calpo

Meg and the Teachers Out on the Hunt investigate another murder!

Death Hits the High Notes is the second book in author GG Calpo's cozy Sweet TOOTH Murder Mystery series featuring retired teacher friends who put their heads together to bring down a murderer or two. After the shocking death of a choir member during a big rehearsal for their upcoming concert, Meg and her friends immediately begin their own investigation when the bumbling Detective Jonathan Storm takes the case. Complicating matters is the arrival of friend and choir member Stefan's cousin, Irina, from Greece, who is there with a bone to pick over the inheritance of their family's olive farm back home.

Meg is a recent widow, having lost her husband, Rich, and only child, Jim, in a tragic drowning in the local river the previous year. Both men were experienced kayakers, and Meg had had to fight with Detective Storm to even look into the suspicious circumstances of their deaths, the little good that did. Her friends, all retired from the local school district like her, support her as she slowly starts to live again and think about the future, one that may include Fred, a handsome local attorney.

The ladies aren't shy about taking on the new case, asking pointed, probing questions of anyone and everyone to get the information they need. But as they dig into the relationships among the choir members, things quickly turn deadly again. Danger arising from Meg's son Jim's former business, X-Secured, also joins the mix. The resolutions are surprising and exciting. As in the previous book, a rich layer of Filipino culture connects the lives of Meg's family and friends, with mentions of great food and traditions sprinkled throughout.

This second outing follows shortly after the events of book one, with little backstory and little time spent re-establishing the characters, so read the series in order of publication for the best understanding and enjoyment. I recommend DEATH HITS THE HIGH NOTES to fans of the Sweet TOOTH Murder Mystery series, and the series itself to cozy mystery readers.

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

BOOK REVIEW: DEATH HITS THE HIGH NOTES (SWEET TOOTH MURDER MYSTERY, #2) by G.G. Calpo

KAREN SIDDALL — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 14:24:17 Z

Death Hits the High Notes

Sweet TOOTH Murder Mystery, #2

GG Calpo

Meg and the Teachers Out on the Hunt investigate another murder!

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

BOOK REVIEW: OUTAGE by Mike Trigg

KAREN SIDDALL — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 09:34:58 Z

Outage

Mike Trigg

An exciting domestic and psychological thriller about betrayal and geopolitical greed.

Outage by Mike Trigg is a mesmerizing tale of domestic suspense, geopolitical greed, and world domination via a scheme involving flawed computer chips. The action and suspense are non-stop, and the threats the Farrell family faces seem all too genuine and plausible in today's reality. I couldn't put this book down; I was so wrapped up in the drama!

Rachel Farrell is ending her workday with a client when their Zoom meeting freezes and drops, and all internet access and cellphone service suddenly disappear. Her teenage children, Derek and Austin, both more tech-savvy than she is, are initially baffled by what is happening and quite put out by the disruption to their daily lives; her Washington lobbyist husband, Caleb, is unreachable. Soon, an unexpected visit from the wife of Caleb's business partner ramps up the suspense as she claims the two men are in trouble with the FBI because of their association with one of their clients, a Chinese computer chip manufacturer partnered with an American firm and suspected of initiating the current internet and cellphone outage that stretches across the entire country. Later, she finds a cryptic note from Caleb, a huge wad of cash, and a handgun in the family car's glove box hinting at danger. He doesn't return home that night, and a late-night FBI visit looking for him prompts Rachel to pack up the kids and head out to find him and some answers.

Such a riveting story, I almost completed the entire book in one long, satisfying session! Rachel is an engaging and personable woman and justifiably frightened and angry at Caleb for leaving them alone and on their own without a clue as to what is going on. With only fear, speculation, and rumors to go on, she does her best to keep them safe and reunite the family. Like Rachel, I was glad when Caleb immediately owned his sins and offered a genuine, contrite apology and asked for forgiveness, giving everyone hope they could salvage their relationship. The author's character development was stellar, and I was particularly impressed by how well he portrayed the emotions, thoughts, dialogue, and actions of his female characters. While all his characters felt real, Rachel and her daughter, Austin, came alive for me.

The plot unfolds at breakneck speed as Rachel and her teenage children make the harrowing journey to the coordinates Caleb's gives them for his location. The danger begins with looting and rioting near their home in Alexandria, Virginia, and quickly escalates as the internet outage disrupts everything from banking to shopping to school, and people get desperate. The isolation the outage causes is almost complete, given their reliance on smartphones and internet access. The story vibrates with tension as Rachel doesn't know who she can trust, and as she realizes that someone wants Caleb dead and will stop at nothing to get to her and their children to draw him out of hiding.

The storyline hits close to home, utilizing current events and thinly disguised public figures as characters. Fox News is singled out as the purveyor of outrageous conspiracy theories, manipulative and manipulated media, and their viewers portrayed as gullible dupes. Early on, Rachel is established as knowing better but unfortunately comes across as insufferably smug during her speculations regarding Caleb's and her parents' political beliefs, so this otherwise exciting story may go flat for more conservative readers and prevent them from ever getting to the best parts, but somebody's got to be the bad guy. The journey, and what the Farrell family finds at the end of the road, really engaged me no matter the political opinion.

I recommend OUTAGE to readers of domestic suspense and psychological thrillers.

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

CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW: MURPHY AND THE MYSTERY OF THE OUTLAW GOLD MINE by Bradford D. Smith

KAREN SIDDALL — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 21:20:18 Z

Murphy and the Mystery of the Outlaw Gold Mine

Alaska Williwaw, #2

Bradford D. Smith

A fun middle-grade mystery set in the historic gold-mining region near Juneau, Alaska.

Murphy and the Mystery of the Outlaw Gold Mine is the second book in author Bradford D. Smiths fun, informative, and adventure-filled middle-grade Alaska Williwaw mystery series, set principally on Douglas Island near Juneau, Alaska. While out hiking the trails of Mount Roberts on the mainland, Murphy Delgado accidentally falls into part of the old underground mining tunnels that honeycomb the mountainside. But before his close friend, Katrina, can help extricate him, he sees two men in a lower tunnel who shoot at him rather than offer aid. Glimpsing the mens mysterious machinery and covered in the ubiquitous red mud in the tunnels, Katrina pulls Murphy to the surface and safety, and straight into their next exciting adventure.

Murphy and Katrina are a fun pair of protagonists who give young readers relatable main characters to root for as they problem-solve their way through a variety of hazardous situations. They work things out on their own, using the adults in their lives as safe havens and sources of information, never telling them exactly what theyre up to. Some of the scrapes they get into, though, stem directly from poor decisions and their failure to tell an adult the important things theyve uncovered.

Mentions of characters and events presumably from the previous book dot the narrative and conversations but were unexplained. I assume the encounters and inclusion tied the story to the characters history with each other and the others but from a newcomers viewpoint, these side stories slowed the current one down. Other than that, the story works okay as a standalone, but I do wish Id started the series with the first book as the unexplained sorties into the past left me feeling a little confused and left out. The resolution came with its own fast-paced excitement as they outdo the bad guys.

I recommend MURPHY AND THE MYSTERY OF THE OUTLAW GOLD MINE to readers of middle-grade mysteries and fiction, but especially for those who have read the previous book in the series.

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

Scary bites: Texas A&M University College of Dentistry shares five spooky dental facts

Stephanie Patrick — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 16:57:00 Z

You know sugar isnt good for your teeth. Eating it often without brushing and flossing afterward is a recipe for tooth decay.

In the spirit of Halloween, Jane Cotter, associate professor in the dental hygiene program at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, shared five other startling facts about teeth and oral healthcare.

Dont be afraid. Friendly dentists and dental hygienists know how to protect your teeth and save your smile.

Hair-raising history: Barbers were dentists

Need both a hair trim and a tooth extracted? If you lived in the Middle Ages, the local barber likely offered both services, according to the American Dental Associations history of dentistry. They had razor-sharp tools.

The barber had nimble fingers and the publics trust because they already knew how to trim a mustache with a razor without slitting a mans throat, Cotter said. The barber acted fast, and that tooth was gone.

Eventually, two groups emerged: surgeons educated and trained to perform complex surgical operations and lay barbers, referred to as barber-surgeons, who performed routine hygienic services, including shaving and tooth extractions, ADA reported.

There are monsters in your mouth

About 700 species of microbes live in your mouth, including bacteria and fungi. National Institutes of Health reported that some are helpful, but others can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Brushing and flossing helps, but the harmful microbes will return, Cotter said. Keep to a dental hygiene routine, limit sugary foods and drinks and brush your tongue because bad bacteria thrive there.

A scary thought: Your children might have cavities

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that half of children have had cavities in their baby or permanent teeth by age 9. The CDC also reported that, on average, 34 million school hours are lost each year because of unplanned dental care.

Make sure children are brushing for at least two minutes in the morning and again before bed, Cotter said.

Boo! Cavities haunt adults, too

More than 120 million adults lost at least one tooth due to decay or gum disease, according to CareQuest Institute for Oral Healths new State of Oral Health in America report.

The easiest way to avoid problems is to brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially after meals and before going to bed, she said. Floss daily and eat nutritious, balanced meals.

In addition, visit your dentist regularly. Dentists often recommend checkups every six months.

If you have problems such as frequent cavities, gum disease or diabetes, visit more often, Cotter said. The sooner the problems are addressed, the healthier you will be.

A spooky truth: Cavities are contagious sort of

You cant catch a cavity from someone else, but cavity-causing bacteria spread through saliva. Kissing and sharing drinks, utensils and vapes are among the ways bacteria can spread.

The bacteria can spread even when the other person doesnt have cavities, Cotter said. Maintain good oral hygiene and avoid sharing.

Dallas PULSE 2027 Schedule Announced

Carolyn Alvey — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 15:29:31 Z

Reigning Major League Volleyball (MLV) champion Dallas PULSE will open its 2027 home schedule Friday, Jan. 8, against the Atlanta Vibe at Comerica Center in Frisco. Single-game tickets for the teams 13 home matches go on sale Nov. 4 at DallasPulseVB.com.

Head Coach Shannon Winzer returns for her second season leading Dallas PULSE, joined by assistant coaches Jamille Torres and Robert Poole

Were ready for the upcoming season and the opportunity to build on what we accomplished last year. Winning a championship is special, but defending it brings a new level of motivation, said Head Coach Shannon Winzer. We have more depth and experience than we did last season, and we continue to be intentional about the players we bring in and who we have representing Dallas. Were excited about the talent and experience they bring, and the opportunity to continue making our mark on this league.

The 2027 roster brings together international talent, athletes with Olympic experience and seasoned professional players ready to make their mark in North Texas. Returning Dallas PULSE players include North Texas-native and outside hitter Kaylee Cox, opposite hitter Kelsie Payne and middle blocker Layne Van Buskirk. Fans can explore the roster at DallasPulseVB.com.

Our first season gave North Texans an opportunity to experience professional womens volleyball, said Dallas PULSE President and CEO Grady Raskin. Our sponsors and fans embraced our team and helped build a foundation for long-term growth. As we prepare to defend our title in our second season, fans will have opportunities to connect with our players, be part of the Dallas PULSE community and feel the intensity of professional volleyball firsthand."

The 2027 Dallas PULSE home schedule at Comerica Center includes:

Jan. 8 vs. Atlanta Vibe

Jan. 22 vs. Omaha Supernovas

Jan. 28 vs. Orlando Valkyries

Feb. 5 vs. Minnesota Forge

Feb. 12 vs. Grand Rapids Rise

Feb. 19 vs. Omaha Supernovas

Feb. 28 vs. NorCal Rumble

March 11 vs. LA Thunder

March 14 vs. Vegas Thrill

March 19 vs. NorCal Rumble

April 1 vs. DC Flight

April 18 vs. Columbus Fury

April 24 vs. Indy Ignite

Fans looking to be a part of the action can secure seats through a season ticket plan or the new half-season flex plan, where fans can secure tickets for seven home matches. Both options are available at DallasPulseVB.com.

In the coming weeks, PULSE fans can mark their calendars for the 2027 MLV Draft on Nov. 23, followed by the debut of the official Dallas PULSE mascot in December.

Stay connected to all things Dallas PULSE by signing up for the team's monthly newsletter. Subscribers will be among the first to receive updates on special events, preseason player activations and more. Fans can sign up for the newsletter on the team website at DallasPulseVB.com.

Dallas PULSE is North Texas womens professional volleyball team and the reigning Major League Volleyball Champions. Playing at Comerica Center in Frisco, Dallas PULSE echoes the energy, and heart of Dallas-Fort Worth home to one of the nations largest and most passionate volleyball communities. Following a championship-winning inaugural season, Dallas PULSE continues to build momentum on and off the court while helping grow the game of volleyball across North Texas. For more information, visit DallasPulseVB.com or follow @DallasPULSEVB on social media for schedule updates, roster announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Major League Volleyball (MLV) is the premier professional volleyball league in the United States, designed to provide the sport and its athletes with the major league platform they deserve. Founded on a player-first philosophy, MLV combines elite competition, significant investment in athlete development, experienced professional sports ownership and a commitment to the long-term growth of volleyball across the country. As the league enters its fourth season in 2027, MLV has expanded to 12 teams from coast-to-coast in some of the top media markets in the nation. It will continue to create top-level, lasting opportunities and memories for players, coaches and local communities while leading the way in solidifying the future of professional volleyball in North America. For more information, visit MLVB.com and follow the league on Instagram,Facebook, X and YouTube.

CHICKEN & DUMPLINGS RETURN TO DQ RESTAURANTS IN TEXAS SERVING UP COMFORT IN A BOWL

Mary Jane Coker — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 08:45:30 Z

With cooler temperatures finally making their way across the Lone Star State, participating DQ restaurants in Texas are welcoming back a beloved favorite: Chicken & Dumplings, the ultimate cozy comfort meal.

This nostalgic and hearty dish combines tender chicken, savory gravy, and fluffy dumplings for a meal that delivers the familiar flavors of a timeless comfort food classic. Chicken & Dumplings is that craveable menu item made for crisp fall and blustery winter days when something warm and cozy is exactly what DQ fans want. This seasonal favorite offers a delicious taste of a home-cooked meal, courtesy of participating DQ restaurants in Texas.

Chicken & Dumplings has become a Texas tradition, said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators Council. There is something special and nostalgic about a meal that tastes like home, and thats exactly why DQ fans look forward to the return of this seasonal gem year after year.

DQ fans can order Chicken & Dumplings in 12-, 16-, and 32-ounce serving, perfect for dining in, taking out or delivery, where available. Chicken & Dumplings are only available for a limited time at participating DQ restaurants in Texas.

When ordering Chicken & Dumplings, fans can satisfy their sweet tooth with the NEW! Peanut Butter Blossom Blizzard® Treat made with HERSHEYS MINI KISSES or the returning Peppermint Bark Blizzard® Treat, both available through the end of December.

For more than 79 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.

Cue the Christmas Playlist: Madisonville Christmas Company Is a Holiday Road Trip Worth Taking

Local News — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 15:10:25 Z

Fill the travel mugs, turn up the Christmas playlist and point the car toward Madisonville. This holiday season, Madisonville Christmas Company is inviting Texans to trade the usual weekend errands for something decidedly more festive: a Christmas road trip.

The family-owned retailers Madisonville flagship offers more than 30,000 square feet of Christmas, filled with dazzling trees, ornaments, wreaths, garlands, gifts, seasonal treats, designer displays and plenty of photo-worthy moments. And with dining, live music and overnight accommodations all steps away, families can make an afternoon of it or turn the trip into an entire holiday weekend.

We want the drive to Madisonville to be part of the Christmas experience, said Ashley Rentz, co-founder of Madisonville Christmas Company. Put on your favorite Christmas music, bring the family or your girlfriends and make a day of it. Shop, eat, take pictures, stay for music and if you really want to make a weekend of it, spend the night under the Christmas lights.

A Christmas Destination Worth the Drive

Located within road-trip distance of Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin and College Station, Madisonville offers an easy holiday escape for Texans ready for a change of scenery.

Once they arrive, visitors can wander through room after room of decorated trees and holiday vignettes, hunt for the perfect ornament, shop for distinctive gifts and seasonal foods, gather decorating inspiration and soak in an atmosphere designed to feel like Christmas from the moment they walk through the door.

Throughout the season, special weekends may include a rotating mix of:

Santa experiences and family photo opportunities
Childrens crafts and activities
Live music and seasonal entertainment
Holiday foods, sweets and samples
Christmas decorating inspiration
Special weekend events
Photo-ready holiday displays
Family experiences designed for multiple generations

We see grandparents coming with their children and grandchildren, girlfriends making a day of it and families who return because Madisonville has become part of their Christmas tradition, Rentz said. You may come looking for an ornament or a wreath, but we hope you leave feeling like you really got to enjoy the season.

Shop. Sip. Sway. Stay.

The Madisonville road trip doesnt have to end when the shopping bags are full. Next door, Yuletide RV Parkkeeps the Christmas atmosphere going after dark with light-wrapped trees, eight luxury Christmas-themed casitas and 31 full-hookup RV sites. Guests can stay overnight beneath the glow, gather around the giant fire pit and turn a shopping trip into a festive getaway.

Then theres The Mantel, Madisonville Christmas Companys on-site restaurant and bar, where visitors can wind down with dinner, cocktails, football and scheduled live music on select Saturdays.

A road-trip itinerary can be as simple as: Shop in the afternoon. Grab dinner and drinks at The Mantel. Stay for live music. Walk back to a Christmas-lit casita at Yuletide RV Park. Wake up and do it all over again.

We love the idea that people dont have to rush through the experience, Rentz said. Stay for dinner. Listen to the music. Spend the night. Have coffee the next morning. It gives families and friends a chance to really make a memory out of the trip.

Come for the Trees. Stay for the Experience.

Shopping remains at the heart of Madisonville Christmas Company, but the flagship was designed to be just as much about inspiration and discovery. Guests can explore designer-curated Christmas trees, ornaments, wreaths, garlands, nativities, gifts, apparel, sweets, entertaining pieces, childrens items and oversized statement décor.

The company also offers custom Christmas design services, allowing shoppers to work with experienced designers to create coordinated trees, wreaths, garlands, swags, centerpieces and other holiday décor. You dont have to know exactly what youre looking for when you get here, Rentz said. Half the fun is turning a corner, seeing something completely unexpected and saying, Okay, I need that at my house.

Plano Is the Preview. Madisonville Is the Road Trip.

North Texas families can also experience Madisonville Christmas Company closer to home this season through its Plano pop-up, located at 5801 Preston Roadand open throughout the 2026 holiday season. The Plano store brings the Madisonville aesthetic to DFW shoppers with designer-inspired trees, ornaments, ribbon, wreaths, garlands, floral designs, gifts and oversized statement pieces.

Plano gives our North Texas customers an easy way to experience Madisonville Christmas Company close to home, Rentz said. Then, when you have a free Saturday or want a fun weekend away, come see where it all started. Madisonville is the full road-trip experience.

The Anti-Mall Christmas Shopping Trip

In a season increasingly dominated by online shopping and hurried errands, Madisonville Christmas Company is offering something that cant be added to an online cart: a Christmas experience. Special weekend programming continues throughout the holidays, including Santa Saturdays, childrens activities and live music at The Mantel.

Christmas goes by so incredibly fast, Rentz said. We want to give people an excuse to slow down for a few hours, or even a whole weekend, and enjoy it. Take the pictures. Eat the sweets. Listen to the music. Buy the ornament you absolutely do not need but completely love. Thats part of the fun.

Your Christmas Road Trip Checklist

Cue the playlist.

Make the drive.

Explore 30,000 square feet of Christmas.

Find something you didnt know you needed.

Have dinner at The Mantel.

Stay for the live music.

Spend the night beneath the lights at Yuletide RV Park.

Head home with a car full of Christmas and a new holiday tradition.

Madisonville Christmas Company is located at 3475 TX-21 in Madisonville, Texas and is open daily during the season. Its seasonal Plano location is at 5801 Preston Road in Plano. Yuletide RV Park is located next door at 3525 TX-21 and offers luxury casitas and full-hookup RV sites.

For store hours, event schedules and trip-planning information, visit Madisonville Christmas Company.

Texas A&M's Plemons named 2026 Texas Dentist of the Year

Stephanie Patrick — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 12:04:00 Z

Sometimes a small act of generosity can make a tremendous impression, especially on a 7-year-old. For Dr. Jacqueline Plemons, its what led her to become a dentist.

My mother had a toothache and, as a single mother with two children, had no means of getting help, she said. After visiting a few offices with no success, a kind dentist agreed to treat her at no charge. I was incredibly grateful and grew up wanting to be just like him being able to care for people who sometimes desperately need our help.

Plemons accomplished her goal. Not only is she Texas A&M University College of Dentistrys new director of external affairs, but shes also approaching 40 years in dentistry. Plemons also is a full-time clinical professor in periodontics and director of the Stomatology Center, where she helps diagnose and manage complex oral medicine conditions while educating future generations of dental professionals.

If thats not enough, Plemons owned a private dental practice in Dallas for decades and is a former president of both the Texas Dental Association and the Dallas County Dental Society.

Plemons distinguished career received the spotlight Sept. 18 when Texas Academy of General Dentistry named her 2026 Texas Dentist of the Year at its annual awards ceremony in Austin. She was one of 16 nominees statewide.

Its considered among the most prestigious honors a Texas dentist can earn.

Dr. Plemons represents the very best of our profession, said Dr. Jon Dossett, president of Texas AGD, in a written statement. Her extraordinary career as a clinician, educator, mentor, and leader has touched countless patients and dental professionals across Texas and beyond. Her dedication to advancing dentistry and serving others makes her truly deserving of this recognition.

Dentistry has taught me that caring for patients is a privilege, that good communication is incredibly important and that lifelong learning is essential for good patient care, Plemons said. Theres value in being both a mentor and a mentee, and dentists are stronger as a group in shaping the future of our profession.

She graduated from the dental school in 1986 (then-Baylor College of Dentistry) and later earned a masters in oral biology from Baylor University in Waco. Plemons earned a periodontics certificate from the dental school in 1988.

Plemons has taught at A&M Dentistry part-time or full-time throughout her career and has held leadership roles within the American Dental Association, where she chaired the Council on Dental Education and Licensure. Plemons served as a delegate to the ADA House of Delegates and contributed to many councils, committees and accreditation initiatives.

Shes an advocate for the profession and provided testimony before the Texas Legislature and the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners on issues affecting dentists and patients across Texas.

A nationally recognized educator, researcher and lecturer, Plemons has spent nearly four decades teaching at her alma mater. In addition, she authored more than 30 peer-reviewed scientific publications, delivered more than 200 professional lectures nationally and internationally and contributed to research in periodontics, oral medicine, oral cancer detection and patient care.

Being named Texas Dentist of the Year is a tremendous honor and a well-deserved recognition of Dr. Plemons exceptional contributions to the dental profession, said Dr. Lily T. García, College of Dentistry dean. We are incredibly proud to have a faculty member whose leadership, expertise and commitment to advancing oral health continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients, students and the profession. This recognition reflects not only Dr. Plemons accomplishments, but also the positive impact of her work throughout Texas.

Plemons mentors dental students, specialty residents, graduate students, researchers, and junior faculty members.

Dr. Deborah M. Foyle, clinical professor in periodontics and A&M Dentistrys new associate dean of student affairs, said she met Plemons in 1995 when helping her gather clinical data for a study of mucositis in patients undergoing chemotherapy at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas. Foyle had recently moved to Dallas from London, England, so Dr. John Regan, her husband, could attend A&M Dentistrys endodontics graduate program.

The first time I was introduced to her, I was with my 3-month-old premature baby, and she just lit up during her interaction with him, Foyle said. She loves children, (and) I was struck by how natural, genuine, caring and giving she was; that is how she still is with patients and students alike.

Plemons career accomplishments include the Texas Dental Association Gold Medal Award for Distinguished Service, the American Dental Association Presidents Award, the Dallas County Dental Society Lifetime Achievement Award, the Texas A&M College of Dentistry Distinguished Alumnus Award and the American Academy of Periodontology Educator Award.

BOOK REVIEW: THE LEGEND OF RACHEL PETERSEN by J.T. Baroni

KAREN SIDDALL — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 23:44:29 Z

The Legend of Rachel Petersen

J.T. Baroni

Eerie tale of a malicious young spirit intent on setting the record straight!

The Legend of Rachel Petersen is a satisfying, spooky, entertaining story that might not have been the best choice for bedtime reading. The author cleverly juggles multiple points of view and timelines to create a fun and eerie tale that will keep readers wondering about the existence of ghosts and a murder that happened over 150 years ago.

The main character, sportswriter Christian Kane, is fed up with his job at the Pittsburgh paper, where he has excelled for many years, and impulsively quits when passed over for a promotion. Instead, he decides to pursue his dreams of writing a best-selling novel. However, he is woefully unprepared for the daunting task of writing such a novel and for what it takes to get a book published once it's written. He's tentatively supported in this endeavor by his loving wife, Shelly, who worries about the practical aspects of their lives when he suddenly quits his well-paying job. While she is his most brutal critic, she is also his most enthusiastic cheerleader, continually boosting his spirits to keep trying.

The plot is well-paced, and an eerie creepiness sets in the moment the couple discovers the long-hidden tombstone on a walk, especially when Christian repeatedly visits the gravesite of his new muse (Rachel Petersen). Headstones are a marvelous source of inspiration, and a child's marker is always heartbreaking and raises questions. I enjoyed how the author told the stories of the Kanes, the Yoders, and Rachel and the Tremont family in alternating chapters, each from a significant character's point of view, showing how the past was bleeding into the present.

The rural Pennsylvania setting felt fresh and interesting, and I liked the inclusion of agricultural history and Civil War events near the farm. I enjoyed it when the Yoder family listened to the Grand Ole Opry on the radio, and the author included the names of real entertainers of the time, famous names readers may recognize. The small and large details gave me a real feel for the place and the area's remoteness, which compounded the brooding atmosphere and unsettled feeling I had while reading. I read this book in an evening, completely absorbed by Christian's, Thaddeus's, and Rachel's stories.

I recommend THE LEGEND OF RACHEL PETERSEN to readers who enjoy paranormal thrillers and horror stories.

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

BOOK REVIEW: NEXT STOP, BOSTON by Iris Dorbian

KAREN SIDDALL — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 23:21:43 Z

Next Stop, Boston

Iris Dorbian

So compelling, I couldn't put this book down!

Next Stop, Boston by Iris Dorbian is the compelling story of sixteen-year-old Geri Randall, whose older sister and guardian, supermodel Michelle, is killed in a car accident while on a photoshoot in Italy. In her will, Michelle leaves her assets and the guardianship of her sister to her fiancé, the fading rock star Dez Deacon, a man completely unprepared and unsuitable for the role. The story of Geri and Dez's tumultuous relationship over the next few months is unputdownable!

The main character, Geri, is good-hearted, naïve, and innocent, having been sheltered all her life in special schools to support her dyslexia. Her being hauled out of school and dragged along on Dez's concert tour is interesting on its own; she's a fish out of water, making the best of a horribly confusing situation. But the volatile, hot mess that is Dez Deacon made it traumatic and emotional. While both are grieving Michelle's death, their relationship is adversarial rather than mutually comforting. This situation is on Dez, as he's unable or unwilling to pull himself together and be the man he needs to be. It was heartbreaking watching his mercurial shifts in temperament and verbal abuse, and Geri's life always walking on eggshells around him. Told from multiple points of view, the added perspectives make this story even more robust. The situation continued to deteriorate, with surprising twists that made it impossible for me to put the book down.

I recommend NEXT STOP, BOSTON to readers of contemporary fiction who like unique plot twists and stories about rock-music concert tours.

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

BOOK REVIEW: ALL GUILTY ANYWAY by Russell W. Johnson

KAREN SIDDALL — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 11:32:10 Z

All Guilty Anyway

Russell W. Johnson

Riveting courtroom drama and legal thriller.

All Guilty Anyway by Russell W. Johnson is a riveting legal thriller featuring a first-year attorney assigned to the defense of an immigrant mother in what appears to be a slam-dunk case of child abuse. But everything quickly goes off script, starting with no plea deal and ending with a courtroom showdown against a renowned assistant district attorney nicknamed "The Hatchet Lady."

Fledgling defense attorney Ivy Collins had turned her back on joining her father's prestigious law firm and gone to work for Lester "The Truth" Williams, a famed defense attorney who may be beyond his glory days. Sonia Cabrerra, the pregnant mother of eight-year-old Hugo, is in jail awaiting adjudication on charges of child abuse, based on the child's testimony that the scarring on his torso came from her deliberately burning him with a hot skillet grate. Speaking neither English nor Spanish well, she had given the investigating detective compromising answers that indicated she had hurt the boy in the past. However, subsequent questioning in her native language soon revealed a different story than what the police and district attorney were peddling. Still, obtaining corroborative evidence from those who could help prove Sonia's innocence hit roadblocks at every turn. Ivy has her work cut out for her in her first-ever court trial, defending a client who faces overwhelming evidence against her, whom she believes is innocent.

Ivy Collins is an engaging young attorney, ready to do all she can to provide a righteous defense. She's stubborn and headstrong when it comes to being told she can't do something: the initial reason she turned her eyes toward working as a criminal defense attorney rather than following in her demanding and larger-than-life father's footsteps. She's softhearted, too, and willing to help her friends, even considering some shady maneuvers to keep a coworker from being deported. She's a character you want to root for from start to finish.

The plot hinges on a horrible accusation by a seemingly charming little boy, so it's a long shot that readers will be persuaded to sympathize with the accused. However, the author pulls it off, and Sonia Cabrerra becomes the underdog, trapped by circumstances and facing impossible odds. The courtroom scenes are riveting, with all the involved attorneys portrayed as top-notch professionals. For once, none were made to look buffoonish or incompetent, just formidable adversaries. The resolution is satisfying, with careful attention to the future of Sonia and Hugo's unbearably broken mother-child relationship.

I recommend ALL GUILTY ANYWAY to readers of legal thrillers and courtroom dramas.

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

BOOK REVIEW: ALL GUILTY ANYWAY by Russell W. Johnson

KAREN SIDDALL — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 11:32:10 Z

All Guilty Anyway

Russell W. Johnson

Riveting courtroom drama and legal thriller.

I recommend ALL GUILTY ANYWAY to readers of legal thrillers and courtroom dramas.

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

BOOK REVIEW: THE HARLOT OF ST. CECELIA'S (INSPECTOR GARRETT MYSTERIES, #1) by Darcy Graves

KAREN SIDDALL — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 11:24:52 Z

The Harlot of St. Cecelia's

Inspector Garrett Mysteries, #1

Darcy Graves

Secrets run deep, and emotions run high in this new historical mystery debut.

The Harlot of St. Cecelia's is the first book in author Darcy Graves's new 1920s London-set mystery series featuring Detective Inspector William Garrett of the Dayneton CID. When the body of a beautiful French actress is discovered in the Reading Room of the university library, DI William Garrett is tasked with finding her killer. Clues, however, are hard to come by, and the only witnesses on site were purposely locked in the basement vault the entire time.

The 1920s time frame and London setting provide a vivid, often rainy backdrop for this tale of jealousy, betrayal, revenge, and murder. The victim, Isabelle Jalbert, while having had many admirers over the years, was not well liked among her peers, and several characters were glad to see her demise. Jealousies among the theatre fold abound, and I thought there were a couple of very strong suspects coming from that direction. However, Isabelle had also developed strong emotions in acquaintances outside the theatre, and Garrett had his eye on both witnesses from the library.

While Simon Cross, a former soldier with a damaged soul from his time in the First World War, seemed resigned to being the chief suspect, his sister, Meg, and his library companion, Eden Brior, were not nearly as complacent as to allow the police to dilly-dally around. I enjoyed how they teamed up and took the bull by the horns, working through several clues to try to identify the real killer. The final reveal is exciting and is a surprising showdown of sorts. I look forward to seeing these characters return for the next case.

I recommend THE HARLOT OF ST. CELELIA'S 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.

Pour Something Special: The Bourbon Reserve at Sheraton Dallas

Culver Public Relations — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 10:07:37 Z

Sometimes the best part of a Dallas getaway is enjoying a little something special from the comfort of your room. At Sheraton Dallas, guests can elevate their stay with the Bourbon Reserve Experience, featuring an exclusive Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Bourbon crafted specially for the hotel. Celebrating sustainability, craftsmanship, and collaboration, the bourbon offers a unique taste of the Sheraton Dallas experience no bar hopping required. Settle in, pour a glass, and toast to a stay thats a little more memorable.

Of course, no good bourbon experience is complete without snacks to match. The in-room amenity includes a 375ML bottle of Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Bourbon, along with a bold, smoky BBQ snack mix, honey mustard pretzels, and chocolate-covered blueberries for the perfect blend of savory and sweet. Whether youre celebrating a special occasion, planning a weekend in Dallas, or simply looking for a fun way to unwind after exploring downtown, the Bourbon Reserve brings a curated happy hour straight to your guest room. Cheers to good bourbon, great snacks, and enjoying Dallas your way.

Sheraton Dallas is located at 400 North Olive Street, Dallas, Texas 75201. For more information about the hotel or to book a stay, visit www.SheratonDallas.com.

Breakthrough T1D Announces One Step Closer Luncheon with Coors Family

Juliette DC — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 10:15:02 Z

Breakthrough T1D Dallas Chapter announces the 2026 Breakthrough T1D Dallas Luncheon, One Step Closer, on Thursday, Nov. 19, at 11:30 a.m. at Brook Hollow Golf Club. Emceed by Karen Borta, CBS news anchor and T1D mom, the luncheon will feature A Candid Conversation with Meredith Coors and her son, Peter Coors II, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 11. The conversation will offer a personal look at living with T1D, the advances that have transformed care and the continued need for research toward better treatments and cures.

Meredith Coors became involved with Breakthrough T1D after Peters diagnosis in 2014. Now a University of Notre Dame graduate, Peter recently moved to the Dallas area and works for Andrews Distributing. Since his diagnosis, Meredith and her husband, Peter, have been dedicated to raising funds for T1D research and a cure. Meredith joined the Mountain West Breakthrough T1D Board in 2017 and chaired the organizations 2018 Colorado Gala. She joined Breakthrough T1Ds Global Mission Board in 2022 and is a member of the Stewardship Ambassador Initiative and Clinical Trial Education Volunteer Committee.

Luncheon Co-Chairs Lisa Singleton and Terry Van Willson, along with Honorary Chairs Tricia and Kenn George, invite the community to join them for this inspiring conversation and to learn more about the progress being made in T1D research and care, as well as the realities of living with the disease.

Today, 2.1 million people are living with T1D, said Lindsay Pittard, territory executive director for the Dallas, Fort Worth and Oklahoma Chapters of Breakthrough T1D. Advances in technology have made daily life with T1D more manageable. Continuous glucose monitors and automated insulin delivery systems can track blood sugar levels in real time and deliver insulin more precisely, giving people with T1D more freedom to focus on school, work, family and the people they love. While tremendous progress has been made, there is still much more work to do to improve lives and ultimately find a cure.

Co-Chair Lisa Singleton and her family quickly learned that T1D is a relentless autoimmune disease that requires constant management, every hour of every day, after their son was diagnosed in 2023 at the age of 13. In the process, they also discovered Breakthrough T1D and its community dedicated to changing that reality.

Every dollar raised helps move us one step closer to better treatments and, ultimately, cures, said Singleton. This luncheon is an opportunity to shine a light on the experiences of those living with T1D and the families who support them, while helping ensure that no one in our community has to navigate this disease alone.

Sponsorships range from $3,000 for a table of 10 to $25,000; individual tickets are $300 each and may be purchased through the Breakthrough T1D Dallas Luncheon event page. For more information, contact Sasha Hayes at JHayes@BT1D.org or 214-764-6775.

Founded in 2013 by Kim and David Roosevelt and JoAnne and Tony Roosevelt, this celebrated annual event has raised more than $1.2 million for T1D research.

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About Breakthrough T1D: Founded in 1970 as the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation (JDF) and renamed the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) in 2001, the organization rebranded in 2024 as Breakthrough T1D to reflect a bold commitment to improving the lives of both children and adults living with type 1 diabetes. As the leading global organization driving T1D research, advocacy, and community engagement, Breakthrough T1D accelerates progress toward cures and better treatments while making everyday life easier for everyone affected. The North Texas and Oklahoma Chapter, based in Dallas, hosts major fundraising events across the region, including the annual luncheon in Dallas, galas in Dallas, Fort Worth, Tulsa and Oklahoma City as well as community walks in The Colony, Fort Worth, Lubbock, Durant, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City. Visit https://www.breakthrought1d.org/dallasfortworth/, https://www.breakthrought1d.org/oklahoma/, email northtexasoklahoma@BreakthroughT1D.org, or call 214-373-9808.