Frost It Forward

Watch how yoga is transforming underserved Dallas communities

Ebony Smith and Paige Martindell find their center.

Courtesy photo

Ebony Smith was amazed when she realized what a profound impact a simple thing like practicing yoga could have in her life. She also knew that many underserved communities in Dallas don't have access to this often pricey pastime, so she founded Yoga N Da Hood to provide classes and programs — for free.

Fitness instructor, photographer, and graphic designer Paige Martindell understands the importance of regular yoga sessions, so the Frost Bank community partner has teamed up with Smith and her nonprofit to bring wellness to everybody, especially children.

It's all part of Opt For Optimism, Frost's new campaign that encourages small acts of kindness that lead to a big impact in your community.

To do our part, CultureMap has created a Charity Guide and an editorial series that highlights those who are giving back. We're also turning the spotlight on locals who are fostering generosity, building community, and changing perspectives.

Show how you're spreading optimism by tagging CultureMap Dallas on Instagram and using the hashtag #frostitforward, and you could win some cool swag.

charity video charity-guide promoted fitness

E-Cigarette News

Dallas City Council places restrictions on vaping in public

Man vaping, e-cigarette

Unsplash

Man vaping

Vaping will now be banned exactly like smoking, thanks to a new ordinance from the Dallas City Council.

At their December 11 meeting, the council passed an ordinance to ban vaping in all the same areas where smoking is not allowed. It'll go into effect on December 11, 2025 — giving everyone a year to get into compliance.

Proposed by City of Dallas Environmental Commission (EVC) and the Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability (OEQS), the ordinance amends the definition of “smoking” in the Dallas City Code to include the use of vaping devices.

The ordinance does not ban vaping — it only bans where you can vape: no vaping in all indoor and enclosed spaces; within 15 feet of building entrances; and on park property. The ordinance also bans marijuana smoking in those same places.

In addition, the amendment requires restaurants, hotels, fitness centers and other businesses to update their signage to clearly state that both smoking and electronic smoking devices are prohibited.

The ordinance already earned widespread support from health organizations such as the Dallas County Health and Human Services, the American Lung Association, and the American Heart Association. These organizations, along with the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the U.S. Surgeon General, have all raised concerns about the health risks of direct and second-hand exposure to vaping aerosols, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and older adults.

Dallas is not the first city to impose such a ban: San Antonio enacted a similar ban in October. Theirs goes into effect on January 1, 2025.

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