Staff & Reader Submitted

BOOK REVIEW: THE BUSH TEA MURDER (CARIBBEAN ISLAND MYSTERY, #1) by Ashley-Ruth Bernier

KAREN SIDDALL — Fri, 15 May 2026 14:09:59 Z

The Bush Tea Murder

Caribbean Island Mystery, #1

Ashley-Ruth Bernier

Mystery and murder infused with island vibes, food, and tea!

The Bush Tea Murder is the first book in author Ashley-Ruth Berniers new Caribbean Island Mystery series, and after reading it, I felt as if Id been on an island vacation. The story, told in the present time and flashbacks, resolves several mysteries and tackles a local murder that has gone unsolved for many years.

Naomi Sinclair, a former investigative reporter who is now a kitchen show television host on EAT-TV out of Charlotte, North Carolina, is competing with a colleague to host a new true culinary crimes show and has a year to produce a sample episode that will determine who gets the hosting spot. Naomi, having grown up on St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands, chooses to investigate a cold case from her hometown, involving people she knows: a successful local teashop owner, Ursula Merchant, murdered in her shop, and several friends and family members of the dead woman. Traveling between Charlotte and St. Thomas, Naomi delves into the circumstances of the case while confronting personal issues: her ailing father and her deepening feelings for the man she left behind.

I enjoyed this series debut quite a bit, with its engaging characters and interesting, unusual storylines. Naomi comes across as relatable and realistic, a woman who would be fun to know, and she was easy to root for and follow. She faces common problems in her work situation, worries about her aging father, and changing feelings for Mateo, who has his own struggles. I enjoyed her investigation and keen observations, which helped her resolve other mysteries that came her way while she was visiting her hometown, friends, and family.

The authors storytelling drew me in from page one. Not only was Naomi likable, but I became invested in what she was going through immediately and wanted her to succeed. As this is the first book in the series, it introduces many characters, reveals backstories, and establishes relationships. However, the author does this so organically that I had no trouble keeping everyone straight and getting familiar with the close-knit community on St. Thomas.

The plot was well-paced, with no dull moments. I liked the premise that Naomi was recounting the events of the previous year to her bosses and colleagues, which allowed for present-day action and flashbacks. While the present day had a very corporate feel, her time back home was full of cozy island vibes, with food and drink at every turn, including the local bush tea that reminded her of home no matter her location. The vivid descriptions of the places Naomi visits while building her show really brought the setting to life.

I recommend THE BUSH TEA MURDER to readers of mysteries and suspense.

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

Sheraton Dallas Welcomes Summer Travelers With Soccer Packages, Seasonal Flavors, and Immersive Stay

Culver Public Relations — Fri, 15 May 2026 13:20:56 Z

Sheraton Dallas welcomes the summer season with new guest experiences, refreshed programming, and special offerings designed for weekend getaways or mid-week escapes. Located in the heart of Downtown Dallas, the hotel offers a central destination for locals and travelers seeking dining, entertainment, and easy access to the city.

Were excited to welcome guests to Sheraton Dallas this summer, especially as the energy of global soccer comes to the city, said Chandana Weerasekara, Hotel Manager. From curated packages to elevated amenities and dining throughout the hotel, weve created a vibrant, welcoming environment that makes every stay this season feel dynamic, seamless, and memorable.

Introducing Curated Soccer Fan Packages

This summer, the hotel will introduce a collection of curated packages designed for fans looking to make the most of their stay, combining added value, on-property experiences, and thoughtful amenities.

Guests can book their stay for June 1July 20, 2026, at the best available rates. Three stay packages will be available for guests booking during this period:

The Goal Getter Package offers a three-night stay during major tournaments and includes a $100 food and beverage credit, perfect for guests looking to elevate their match-day experience.
Ideal for those who want to immerse themselves fully in the excitement, the Match Day Getaway offers a three-night stay crafted around the hotels energetic soccer atmosphere.
Travelers planning extended visits can take advantage of the Kick-Off to Victory Package, a 10-night stay available at special rates and ideal for long-term guests or families following multiple matches.

Seasonal Dining: Fresh, Local & Inspired

Discover the flavors of the season at Sheraton Dallas four unique dining outlets, where fresh ingredients, creative menus, and welcoming spaces make every meal a moment to savor.

The hotels signature restaurant, Open Palette, serves up American classics, including house-smoked Texas barbecue that debuted last year. Paying homage to the hotels Texas roots, the barbecue menu offers a taste of Southern Hospitality.

The 4,000-square-foot Draft Sports Bar and Lounge is a sports haven, featuring dozens of TVs broadcasting continuous match coverage, outstanding sports-centric eats, craft cocktails, and local beers on tap, including the House Honey Lager made in partnership with Dallas brewing legends, Manhattan Project Beer Co. The House Honey Lager uses honey harvested from the rooftop Herb N Jungle garden. For groups, the private Karaoke Room offers a fun space to gather, while the new gaming area with video games and multiplayer setups extends the experience into the evening.

For a relaxed nightcap, guests can slip into The Parlor, the hotels upscale lounge, where dim lighting, curated cocktails, and an intimate, speakeasy atmosphere offer the perfect wind-down after a day of matches. The Parlor also hosts Mixology Mondays, a hands-on cocktail experience that brings a refreshing twist to weekday plans every Monday from 5 to 6 PM, inviting guests to learn from the hotels mixologists in an engaging, interactive setting.

Open Mkt. Grab n Go offers a wide selection of healthy, convenient options for guests on the move, making it easy to fuel up before heading to a match or exploring the city. Stocked with game-day essentials, from prepared snacks and beverages to travel necessities, the market also partners with local brands and artisans, giving guests the opportunity to take home a taste of Texas through thoughtfully sourced gifts, treats, and regional specialties.

Dare to Discover Our Dallas

At Sheraton Dallas, world-class hospitality is at the heart of every stay, and the concierge team is here to help make each Dallas visit seamless. From personalized recommendations and insider tips to coordinating transportation, tickets, and reservations, the hotels experts ensure travelers can explore the city with confidence and ease.

Just steps from the DART rail line, fans can take a short ride to Fair Park and experience Fan Festival or head out to discover some of the citys most notable restaurants and attractions, including the nationally acclaimed Dallas Arts District, Klyde Warren Park, the Dallas Museum of Art, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, and more.

Whether travelers are seeking culture, dining, sports, or nightlife, the Sheraton Dallas concierge team will help them make the most of every moment in our beautiful city.

Sheraton Dallas stands as the states largest hotel and the second-largest Sheraton in the world. The hotel boasts 1,841 guest rooms, more than 230,000 square feet of flexible meeting and convention space, a rooftop pool, fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment and Peloton bikes, and four dining outlets: Draft Sports Bar & Lounge, Open Palette, Open Mkt. Grab n Go, and The Parlor.

Sheraton Dallas Hotel is located at 400 North Olive Street, Dallas, Texas 75201. For more information or to book a stay, visit www.SheratonDallas.com. For more information about events, contact the sales team at DALDHOutletmanagers@marriott.com or call 469-371-1486.

DSO Brings Top Gun: Maverick Score to Life with Soaring Live Performance and Film Screening

Culver Public Relations — Fri, 15 May 2026 12:54:26 Z

Imagine the thrill of Top Gun: Maverick, the high-flying, adrenaline-charged blockbuster nominated for six Academy Awards®, combined with the power of Dallas Symphony Orchestras full live orchestra. Thats exactly what audiences will experience with Top Gun: Maverick in Concert, coming to the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center May 22-24, 2026.

This one-of-a-kind cinematic concert event features the film projected in high definition on the big screen, while the DSO performs the iconic score live, including compositions by Harold Faltermeyer, Lady Gaga, and Hans Zimmer with score production by Lorne Balfe. Its a powerful sensory experience that transforms blockbuster film music into a living, breathing orchestral performance.

Under the baton of acclaimed conductor Sarah Hicks, the orchestra elevates the emotional journey in Top Gun: Maverick in a way only live performance can, making music a central character in the storytelling.

Tickets start at $78. Secure your spots now at dallassymphony.org.

BOOK REVIEW: TO DIE FOR by Audrey Steidl

KAREN SIDDALL — Thu, 14 May 2026 18:15:34 Z

To Die For

Audrey Steidl

A living nightmare of control and manipulation in a high school setting!

To Die For is a new young adult psychological drama by Audrey Steidl that captures many realistic moments and attitudes of high school society and survival, especially after a narcissistic personality enters the mix. When Mika St. John catches the eye of Delilah Fields, it is the first day of a new semester at a new school for her, but she is determined to get her man no matter what.

The story is well-paced as the author builds a setting familiar to most of us and introduces a diverse cast of characters. Dei, as Delilah is known, could be the poster child for a narcissistic personality, as she manipulates her way to what she wants. I was fascinated and horrified in equal measure by the depth of planning involved in her campaign to secure her hearts desires, as well as by her full awareness of what she was deliberately setting up. The regular high school students didnt stand a chance. The whole tale is chilling and made for an unputdownable page-turner.

I recommend TO DIE FOR to readers of young adult fiction and psychological drama.

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

Dream Center Dallas to Host Community-Wide Good Neighbor Day in Oak Cliff This Saturday

Culver Public Relations — Thu, 14 May 2026 14:45:36 Z

Dream Center Dallas is inviting the Oak Cliff community to come together for Good Neighbor Day on Saturday, May 16, a family-friendly event focused on serving and supporting local families through food, resources, activities and connection.

Hosted from 122 p.m. at Dream Center Dallas, the afternoon is designed to bring neighbors together while helping meet practical needs and reminding community members they are seen, valued and cared for.

Guests can expect community resources, family-friendly activities and opportunities to connect with local organizations and volunteers throughout the event.

Good Neighbor Day

Saturday, May 16
122 p.m.
Dream Center Dallas
1900 S Ewing Ave, Dallas, TX 75216

Volunteer programming will begin earlier in the day with check-in and rally activities ahead of the event kickoff. Those interested in volunteering can find additional information, here.

CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW: WORD UP! by Raven Howell, illustrated by Joe Rocco

KAREN SIDDALL — Wed, 13 May 2026 22:45:54 Z

Word Up!

by Raven Howell

Illustrated by Joe Rocco

An eye-catching, attention-grabbing, and useful introduction to words as a tool and an object of power or fun.

Word Up! by Raven Howell, illustrated by Joe Rocco, is an eye-catching, attention-grabbing way to teach the very young that words have power and can adapt to all circumstances, even if that means remaining unused. Sometimes its the sound of a word itself that draws someone to its existence. Maybe its the way it slides over the lips or pops off the tongue or bursts from the mouth, without regard for meaning, that draws ones attention and affection. Or, perhaps, its the sound of its pronunciation that obscures or hides the unpleasant meaning of a more common synonym that brings some love its way. Still, its fun to discover what words another person holds dear to their heart and why. The books whimsical delivery and vibrant illustrations help young readers see that words can be powerful tools, both helpful and hurtful, and that they should be recognized for their abilities and value.

I recommend WORD UP! to young readers and listeners at home, school, or in afterschool settings.

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

Free Outdoor May Concerts from Dallas Symphony Orchestra Bring Music to the Community

Culver Public Relations — Wed, 13 May 2026 17:20:38 Z

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is kicking off summer with three free outdoor concerts in Downtown Dallas, inviting families, neighbors, and music lovers to enjoy an evening of live symphonic music in the heart of their own communities. The months line-up includes:

Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park Instrument Petting Zoo (May 17). Bring the whole family to this hands-on educational experience featuring an instrument petting zoo and other live musical demonstrations. Plus, learn more about the DSOs youth programs, including Young Strings, Young Musicians, and more! Location: Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park on Flora and Pearl Streets, Dallas, TX 75201.

Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park Chamber Concert (May 21). Rounding out the 2025/26 season with the last Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park Concert, guests are invited to a fun, intimate one-hour performance featuring the DSO ensemble. Location: Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park on Flora and Pearl Streets, Dallas, TX 75201

Memorial Day Parks Concert at Flag Pole Hill (May 25). This annual Dallas tradition honors the holiday with an uplifting, patriotic program performed under the open sky and a vibrant fireworks show. The concert will begin at 8:15 PM, with fireworks to follow at 9:15 PM. Location: Flag Pole Hill at 8015 Doran Circle, Dallas, TX 75238.

Each performance features a DSO ensemble, bringing beloved orchestral works, family-friendly favorites, and a celebratory program to audiences of all ages. Guests can unwind in a relaxed outdoor experience that highlights the DSOs commitment to community engagement and accessible live music.

Free Outdoor May Concerts from Dallas Symphony Orchestra Bring Music to the Community

Culver Public Relations — Wed, 13 May 2026 17:20:38 Z

Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park Instrument Petting Zoo (May 17). Bring the whole family to this hands-on educational experience featuring an instrument petting zoo and other live musical demonstrations. Plus, learn more about the DSOs youth programs, including Young Strings, Young Musicians, and more! Location: Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park on Flora and Pearl Streets, Dallas, TX 75201.

Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park Chamber Concert (May 21). Rounding out the 2025/26 season with the last Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park Concert, guests are invited to a fun, intimate one-hour performance featuring the DSO ensemble. Location: Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park on Flora and Pearl Streets, Dallas, TX 75201

Memorial Day Parks Concert at Flag Pole Hill (May 25). This annual Dallas tradition honors the holiday with an uplifting, patriotic program performed under the open sky and a vibrant fireworks show. The concert will begin at 8:15 PM, with fireworks to follow at 9:15 PM. Location: Flag Pole Hill at 8015 Doran Circle, Dallas, TX 75238.

North Texas Golf Classic Raises Money to Fund 53.5 Educational Scholarships

Culver Public Relations — Wed, 13 May 2026 11:29:04 Z

There was no shortage of competition, camaraderie, and meaningful moments at this years North Texas Golf Classic, but what mattered most was the impact made together.

From the first tee shot to the final conversations, supporters from across North Texas came together with one shared purpose: honoring the sacrifice of Americas fallen or disabled military service members and first responders by investing in the futures of their families.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our golfers, sponsors, volunteers, donors, and community partners, this years tournament raised more than $268,000, funding 53.5 educational scholarships for deserving families. Every team that signed up, every sponsorship, every auction item, and every contribution helped create new opportunities for spouses and children pursuing their educational goals.

We were proud to welcome 160 golfers, 16 dedicated volunteers, board members, scholarship recipients, and supporters who helped make the event feel both impactful and deeply personal. Hearing directly from those affected by these scholarships served as a powerful reminder of why this mission matters so much.

A special thank you goes to Suntex Marinas, La Pulga, Eataly Dallas, and Budweiser for helping make the day even more memorable through silent auction donations and on-course activations that kept the energy high throughout the tournament.

Events like the North Texas Golf Classic are about far more than a day on the course. They are about community, gratitude, and ensuring the families of those who have sacrificed so much know they are not carrying that sacrifice alone.

Thank you to everyone who stood with us and helped make a lasting difference.

BOOK REVIEW - EDWIN STEELSIDE: SEARCHING OUT THE DEVIL by Bradford Bennett

KAREN SIDDALL — Tue, 12 May 2026 14:35:46 Z

Edwin Steelside:

Searching Out the Devil

by Bradford Bennett

An old-school senior officer who misses the street action retires and opens his own private investigation office.

Edwin Steelside: Searching Out the Devil by Bradford Bennett is a collection of short stories featuring the former head of detectives turned private eye. This volume includes four intriguing and mysterious cases for the new PI to solve.

Ed Steelside is an engaging protagonist for the series. Divorced after his job as the head of Vancouver PDs Homicide Detectives Bureau kept him away from home and his wife too much, hes considering getting back in the dating game to get to know Molly, a smart, fast-talking, and saucy waitress at his favorite coffee shop. He retired from the police department when, after climbing the ladder, he discovered that most of his time was spent on administrative tasks rather than solving crimes and pursuing justice for victims. Instead, hes opened his own private investigation office, and his stellar reputation is starting to attract some big cases.

Each story is a self-contained case, and Ed conducts a thorough investigation, following clues and his instincts. The police procedural style employed puts the reader alongside Ed every step of the way as he puzzles through the information he uncovers, leading to the final resolution. Suspects come and go as the clues either rule them out or put them on a fast track to arrest by his former colleagues, with whom he maintains a positive, mutually beneficial relationship.

I recommend EDWIN STEELSIDE: SEARCHING OUT THE DEVIL to mystery readers who enjoy their police procedurals in bite-sized chunks.

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

Beckers Names Dallas Allen Mason a Great Leader in Healthcare

Krista Simmons — Mon, 11 May 2026 16:00:00 Z

Beckers has named Leap Distributors Co-founder and CEO Allen Mason to the 2026 list of Great Leaders in Healthcare. Mason, a Dallas resident, is included in the Companies section, under CEOs and Founders.

Beckers is highly respected throughout our industry and its Great Leaders in Healthcare List includes many of our industrys top professionals, said Mason. Im honored to be included.

Beckers Healthcare has more than 1.1 million e-newsletter subscribers and more than 68,000 print subscribers.

According to Beckers, its 2026 Great Leaders in Healthcare list is developed from nominations and editorial research. It recognizes healthcare leaders, whose influence reaches far beyond their individual organizations, and who set the tone from the top by defining the strategic direction, shaping the culture and embodying the mission that flows through every department, every decision, and every patient or client interaction.

Mason has more than 25 years of experience in the medical device industry and more than a decade of executive-level healthcare leadership expertise. Mason co-founded Leap Distributors with a mission to transform the healthcare landscape by prioritizing cost reduction, increasing patient choice, and improving overall quality of care.

Headquartered in Dallas, Leap Distributors continues that mission today as a national medical device distribution partner that provides sales coverage, contracting and GPO strategy, and end-to-end logistics for manufacturers and healthcare facilities. Today, Leap Distributors supports more than 10,000 surgeries annually, partnering with over 750 surgeons and 350 facilities, GPOs, and IDNs across the country.

A seasoned entrepreneur, Mason has built nine successful businesses. Mason co-founded Leap Surgical (which was acquired by Leap Distributors in 2024) and served as its CEO for more than a decade. He also is a co-founder of MindSight Medical LLC, an FDA registered and licensed tissue bank in Dallas, and he is a board member of Total Ancillary, Axis Datalytics, MedTechIntel, MedTech Incubator, Staysis Medical and other notable startups.

Mason is actively involved in the community. In particular, with the non-profit Leap Six a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business that Mason helped create, which specializes in connecting niche medical suppliers with hospitals, distributors and the VA health system. He also serves as a mentor to numerous professionals and participates in a variety of educational and health outreach programs.

Discover Why Frisco Is One of the Best Cities in Texas for Families

Culver Public Relations — Mon, 11 May 2026 15:33:08 Z

As one of North Texas fastest-growing cities, Frisco has become a favorite destination for families looking for a balance of entertainment, outdoor activities, strong schools, and community-focused living. From weekend adventures to everyday conveniences, Frisco offers countless opportunities for kids and parents alike to enjoy life together.

Located near some of the citys top attractions, The Links on PGA Parkway places residents close to everything that makes Frisco such a family-friendly place to call home!

Families looking to spend time outdoors can visit Little Elm Park, where hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, fishing spots, and a swim beach create the perfect setting for a full day of family fun. The parks open green spaces and waterfront views make it a popular weekend destination for families across the area.

For indoor entertainment, Main Event continues to be a local favorite with bowling, arcade games, laser tag, virtual reality experiences, and dining all under one roof. Whether its a birthday celebration or a casual night out, theres something for every age to enjoy.

Friscos family appeal continues to grow with exciting developments shaping the future of the city, including the upcoming Universal Kids Resort. The highly anticipated park is expected to bring even more entertainment and tourism to the area, adding to Friscos reputation as one of the most exciting places for families in Texas.

Back at home, residents at The Links on PGA Parkway can enjoy a lifestyle centered around comfort, convenience, and connection, with resort-style amenities and gathering spaces designed for everyday living.

With its growing entertainment scene, outdoor recreation, family-focused attractions, and thriving community atmosphere, Frisco continues to stand out as one of the best places in North Texas for families to live, explore, and create lasting memories together!

BOOK REVIEW: DAUGHTER OF MINE by Angie Stanton

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 10 May 2026 20:38:59 Z

Daughter of Mine

Angie Stanton

Tragic, shocking tale that made me question my emotions.

Daughter of Mine is a new womens fiction tale by Angie Stanton that made me question my own emotions and perceptions. A woman who lost her newborn hours after her birth takes the healthy infant of another. The story is gut-wrenching and heartbreaking, but rather than straightforward emotions, the lines blurred between where my sympathies took hold.

The authors writing style is compelling and drew me into the fearful story immediately; the pages melted away as I followed the unfolding lives of two mothers, Melissa and Cheryl, and baby Greta, who became known as Piper. I read this book in one absorbing sitting.

I recommend DAUGHTER OF MINE to readers of womens, crime, and literary fiction.

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

BOOK REVIEW - THE PURPOSE OF GETTING LOST: A STORY OF FINDING MYSELF by Tracy Smith

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 10 May 2026 20:20:52 Z

The Purpose of Getting Lost:

A Story of Finding Myself

Tracy Smith

An unexpected joy!

The Purpose of Getting Lost: A Story of Finding Myself, a memoir by Tracy Smith, was an unexpected joy to read as I connected with and related to so many of her experiences, impressions, and emotions. Approaching 50 and an impending empty nest, the author comes to realize the person shes become, or, rather, presents to the public and even family and friends, has drifted far from the real self shed slowly buried in time and by the necessity of successive needs of others.

Wives and mothers adapt as needed to provide what is essential to those who depend on them, but in doing so, often lose contact with their own needs, desires, and feelings. Through travel and new experiences away from the life and persona shed constructed, the author gradually peels off the hold the needs of others had on her and allows the real Tracy to re-emerge. Reading Tracys words felt like a comfortable yet deep conversation with that one friend who really gets me.

I recommend THE PURPOSE OF GETTING LOST to readers of womens memoirs and travelogues.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy through WOW! Women On Writing Book Tours.

Dr. Amp W. Miller III to bid goodbye to Texas A&M University College of Dentistry after 53 years

Stephanie Patrick — Sun, 10 May 2026 16:00:00 Z

Dr. Amp W. Miller, professor and director of comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, retires May 31 after decades of crafting smiles and shaping the careers of thousands of dentists.

If anyone needs a new smile or a history lesson about Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, Dr. Amp W. Miller III, professor and director of comprehensive dentistry, can provide both. The prosthodontist spent decades restoring and replacing missing and damaged teeth, and even longer studying and teaching dentistry.

Now, after 53 years as an A&M Dentistry faculty member and four years before that as a dental student at then-Baylor College of Dentistry, Miller will say goodbye to everyone on the Gaston Avenue campus. Miller will officially retire effective May 31 his 79th birthday.

Hes taught thousands of dental students, including me, said Dr. Lily T. Garcia, A&M Dentistrys dean and a prosthodontist and BCD Class of 1984. The dental college has served the North Texas community for 120 years, and Dr. Miller has been an important part of it for nearly half the time. His contributions are immense.

Either as a part-time or full-time instructor, Millers courses ranged from preclinical classes to graduate prosthodontics. He also earned a prosthodontics certificate from his alma mater and employer in 1980, while also working in private practice. His academic career includes stints as interim assistant department head of comprehensive dentistry, interim chair and then chair of restorative dentistry, director of curriculum and interim associate dean for clinical affairs.

Miller relinquished the dean role because he missed teaching and daily interactions with students too much.

Students have inquiring minds, he said. I like to watch them develop their knowledge and skills. They are full of questions, and they develop some swagger as they gain confidence in their abilities.

Students adore Miller, and they named him Teacher of the Year in 1992, 2005, 2011, 2018 and 2025.In addition, he was named to A&M Dentistrys Hall of Fame in 2025, alongside Dr. Ernestine Lacy, professor and associate dean for student affairs at A&M Dentistry, who also retires effective May 31.

Miller is an incredible resource, offering insights that fundamentally change how students think, said Eric M. Weideman, a third-year dental student at A&M Dentistry.

I remember sitting in class when he briefly explained how to tell which side a patient likely sleeps on just by looking at their dentition, he said. It was one of those moments where it just clicked. It seemed so simple, and so far, it has held up.

Weideman said Miller helped him be more observant and think differently about patients dental needs.

I can only imagine the impact he has had on so many others, he said.

Once retired, Miller and his wife, Barbara, associate professor emerita at A&M Dentistry, retired assistant dean of recruitment and admissions and BCD Class of 1983, will finish renovations on their home in Lake Highlands and spend time with grandchildren in Virginia.

Its been the kind of job where Ive looked forward to coming to work each day, Miller said. The College of Dentistry is in good hands for the future.

Dr. Amp W. Miller III to bid goodbye to Texas A&M University College of Dentistry after 53 years

Stephanie Patrick — Sun, 10 May 2026 16:00:00 Z

Miller relinquished the dean role because he missed teaching and daily interactions with students too much.

Students have inquiring minds, he said. I like to watch them develop their knowledge and skills. They are full of questions, and they develop some swagger as they gain confidence in their abilities.

Miller is an incredible resource, offering insights that fundamentally change how students think, said Eric M. Weideman, a third-year dental student at A&M Dentistry.

Weideman said Miller helped him be more observant and think differently about patients dental needs.

I can only imagine the impact he has had on so many others, he said.

Its been the kind of job where Ive looked forward to coming to work each day, Miller said. The College of Dentistry is in good hands for the future.

Dr. Amp W. Miller III to bid goodbye to Texas A&M University College of Dentistry after 53 years

Stephanie Patrick — Sun, 10 May 2026 16:00:00 Z

Miller relinquished the dean role because he missed teaching and daily interactions with students too much.

Students have inquiring minds, he said. I like to watch them develop their knowledge and skills. They are full of questions, and they develop some swagger as they gain confidence in their abilities.

Miller is an incredible resource, offering insights that fundamentally change how students think, said Eric M. Weideman, a third-year dental student at A&M Dentistry.

Weideman said Miller helped him be more observant and think differently about patients dental needs.

I can only imagine the impact he has had on so many others, he said.

Its been the kind of job where Ive looked forward to coming to work each day, Miller said. The College of Dentistry is in good hands for the future.

Dr. Amp W. Miller III to bid goodbye to Texas A&M University College of Dentistry after 53 years

Stephanie Patrick — Sun, 10 May 2026 16:00:00 Z

Miller relinquished the dean role because he missed teaching and daily interactions with students too much.

Students have inquiring minds, he said. I like to watch them develop their knowledge and skills. They are full of questions, and they develop some swagger as they gain confidence in their abilities.

Miller is an incredible resource, offering insights that fundamentally change how students think, said Eric M. Weideman, a third-year dental student at A&M Dentistry.

Weideman said Miller helped him be more observant and think differently about patients dental needs.

I can only imagine the impact he has had on so many others, he said.

Its been the kind of job where Ive looked forward to coming to work each day, Miller said. The College of Dentistry is in good hands for the future.

Dallas PULSE take home MLV Match for a Million Championship Title

Carolyn Alvey — Sun, 10 May 2026 15:43:44 Z

For the first time in Major League Volleyball history, five sets were needed to decide the league championship as the Dallas PULSE defeated the Omaha Supernovas in a thrilling 3-2 come-from-behind win in the Match for a Million on Saturday, May 9.

The championship is the first for PULSE as they became the first MLV expansion team to take home the league title in their debut campaign. The match was played before a sellout crowd of 4,598 fans at Comerica Center.

The energy in the Comerica Center was unreal all week long, the fans brought a level of passion that elevated every moment, shared MLV Commissioner Jaime Weston. This is the major leagues; this is what the highest level of professional volleyball looks like. Seeing a team rise and win in front of its hometown crowd makes it even more special. Its a defining moment not just for these athletes, but for the continued growth of our league.

Dallas outside hitter Sofia Maldonado Diaz earned MVP honors with a scintillating 26-kill performance to lead the PULSE to victory. Five of her kills came in the deciding fifth set. Natalia Valentin-Anderson handed out 43 assists while Tristin Savage recorded seven blocks to tie the MLV postseason match record.

I think we were really intentional in who we brought to Dallas, PULSE head coach Shannon Winzer said following the match. I think our resiliency has shown throughout the year. Weve never stayed too long in the highs or too long in the lows. At the beginning of the year (I said) this club has no past, it only has beginnings, so we need to make our mark and today we very much made our mark. This is an incredible team. Im very grateful for this year and this team.

The Supernovas won the opening set 25-20 before Dallas rebounded with a 25-23 win in set two. Omaha appeared to take control of the match with a 25-15 win in the third set as Beason and Nuneviller posted four kills each and Parson notched all three of her aces to set an MLV postseason set record. But the PULSE raced out to a 12-4 lead in the fourth set enroute to a 25-13 win to knot the match at two. Maldonado again led the way with six kills in the frame.

Tied at 3-3 in the fifth set, Dallas scored seven of the next 10 points to jump out to a 10-6 lead and take control. Maldonado Diaz chalked up four of the points in that run. Omaha cut the score to 10-8 before the PULSE put the match away to claim the victory.

The win is the narrowest combined margin in Match for a Million history as the two teams were separated by only five points in the cumulative match point total (100-95).

The Dallas PULSE is North Texas first womens professional volleyball team, competing in Major League Volleyballs 2026 season. 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. 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.

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.

BOOK REVIEW: DEAD FOCUSED AND HOCUS POCUSED (EMPTY NEXT MYSTICAL COZY MYSTERY, #1) by Marcy Blesy

KAREN SIDDALL — Sun, 10 May 2026 11:50:48 Z

Dead Focused and Hocus Pocused

Empty Nest Mystical Cozy Mystery, #1

Marcy Blesy

The openings craziness and chaos made this an unputdownable debut!

Dead Focused and Hocus Pocused is the first book in veteran author Marcy Blesys new Empty Nest Mystical Cozy Mystery series and features retired elementary school teacher and newly-minted empty nester, Julianna Juli Tully, as she checks in for a weeks stay to help ease her past her feelings of uncertainty over her new phase of life. Craziness and chaos greet her at the Sand Bur Estate on the shores of Lake Michigan, the location of the Empty Nest Retreat: Where You Take the Front Seat of Your Life Again, which was gifted to her by her mother and husband, and is not the spa-like scenario that shed been hoping for at all. Soon after her arrival, a staff member turns up dead, and as Juli was the last person to see them alive, she becomes the number one suspect in their murder.

Juli is such a relatable main character as she confronts the bewilderment that greets her upon arrival. Shes confused and turned off by the weird vibes she gets from the start, and feels singled out as the staff seems to focus solely on her during their sessions. The first person she meets there is Nelle, a high-energy sort, eager to please, participate, and support anything healing, but not exactly a relaxing individual to be paired with. Several of the other attendees were downright hostile to Julis presence, and when the chef is found dead, the tension really mounts.

However, things at the Sand Bur are not what they seem, and Juli decides to stick it out to uncover the strange goings-on and, later, clear her name of the murder. While I wanted to rescue Juli myself from the sheer chaos at first, it was the quirkiness of the situation that begged for explanation that hooked me. The author tells a compelling story with relatable characters, and I just had to find out how everything would resolve.

I recommend DEAD FOCUSED AND HOCUS POCUSED to cozy mystery readers who enjoy paranormal and supernatural elements in their stories.

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