Dallas' Birthday Party Project blasts off with out-of-this-world bash

Mission to Party

undefined

What: Birthday Party Project’s (TBPP) 11th birthday party

Where: The Bomb Factory

The 411: The Dallas organization known for throwing birthday parties for others celebrated its own milestone with an out-of-this world bash on February 4.

Themed “Mission To Party!,” TBPP's 11th anniversary party and largest fundraiser of the year welcomed guests dressed up in space-themed costumes, from movie character-classics to astronauts to space cowboys. The Bomb Factory itself looked like an outer-space adventure, featuring metallic decor, balloons, and whimsical touches - all thanks to David Kimmel, Emily Clarke Events, The Event Nerd, and Bella Flora.

In a nod to both the past and beyond, attendees walked through the history of TBPP moments before launching into the future. Sipping cocktails inside the Space Garden, complete with a 25-foot tree, was a highlight.

All party proceeds will go directly to the nonprofit's mission of throwing birthday parties for children living in homeless shelters and transitional living facilities across the country.

Who: Chief birthday enthusiast Paige Chenault Lohoefer welcomed notable guests including Javier Burkle, Todd Fiscus and Ceron, Ian Kinsler, Lindsay Billingsley, and Dallas City Councilman Omar Nevarez. Other attendees included Amy Pratt, Megan Baker, Erin Ashford, Serra Garcia, Christina Pappas, Sue Garcia, Gregory Masi, Jennifer Surgalski, Jeremy Zidell, Meridith Zidell, Blake Martin, Geri Parris, Kashawn Cruell, Paige Muller, Lacey Carter, Matt Carter, Missy Rogers Peck, Tim Peck, Natalie Lesikar, John Lesikar, Parker Paschall, Zac Park, Catalina Gonzalez Jorba, Laura Moses, Mason McCleskey, Kate Boatright, Samantha Wortley, and many more.

Photo by Tamytha Cameron Photography

Amy Pratt, Paige Chenault Lohoefer, Megan Baker

Photo by Rob Wythe

Dallas food and art stars stir up 15th anniversary Soup's On Luncheon

Piping hot

What: 15th annual Stewpot Alliance Soup’s On Luncheon and Art Show

Where: Thompson Dallas

The 411: A chilly last Monday of January was the perfect day for piping hot soup - and the perfect day for Dallas' beloved Soup's On Luncheon and Art Show. The annual Stewpot Alliance fundraiser marked its 15th anniversary this year, and was chaired by artists Christy Coltrin and Brad Oldham.

More than 700 guests filled the hotel ballroom for the sold-out luncheon, a highlight of which was a talk by Cynt Marshall, Dallas Mavericks’ CEO and author of You’ve Been Chosen. She shared how she overcame personal and professional odds to help others see how they are uniquely positioned to thrive.

Brenda Ewing Snitzer, executive director of The Stewpot, underscored the organization's mission to offer a safe haven for homeless and at-risk people, with resources for basic survival and opportunities to start a new life.

Dallas Mavericks’ DJ Poizon Ivy emceed the event and kept the beat lively with special playlist of music inspired by food, meals, and community.

And, of course, there was the main event - the food. Chef Brian C. Luscher, who has served as celebrity chef chair for the past 15 years, recognized each chef who prepared signature soups for the luncheon. They included: Jeff Bekavac of Cane Rosso, Thunderbird, and Zoli’s; J. Chastain of Sister, The Charles, and Carlos Elegante; Kevin Curry, Fit Men Cook; Omar Flores, Muchacho Tex Mex; Danyele McPherson, Purple Collar Kitchen; Janice Provost, Parigi; Anastasia Quiñones Pittman, José; Javier Reyes, The Stewpot; Jeramie Robison, Thompson Dallas; and Abraham Salum, Salum.

In a beautiful crowning touch, Brad Oldham Sculpture created the centerpieces, a limited-edition bronze sculpture that portrays two otters taking care of each other, "demonstrating a manifestation of their compassionate bond and a reminder to care for our neighbors," organizers said.

Proceeds from the "Otter Guides" sculptures, as well as the entire luncheon, benefited The Stewpot which, for 48 years, has served Dallas neighbors experiencing and at risk of homelessness by providing meals, counseling and case management, rapid rehousing, medical and dental services, youth and family stabilization programs, vocational activities, and more.

Who:Rhonda Sargent Chambers, Lynn McBee, Kit Chambers, Cal Findeiss, Meagan Findeiss, Darshell Slaughter, Vater Williams, Gregory Williams, Fernando Gallegos, Amanda Reyes, Allyson Gordon, Janet Evans, Courtney Luscher, Bonnie Mastin, Liz Brantley, Brett Brantley, Tara Glasgow, Shae Barbieux, Randy Herbert, Margie Francis, Ray Francis, and many more.

Photo by Rob Wythe

Rhonda Sargent Chambers, Lynn McBee, Kit Chambers

Photo by Christian Bowen on Unsplash

Dallas nonprofit hosts prom dress & suit giveaway with 4 ways to help

Dancing into prom season

A Dallas group is ensuring that every local high schooler's prom dream comes true this year. An organization called Ultimate Debutante Experience will host its 2023 Prom Dress and Suit Giveaway on April 1 at Compassionate Community Church in southeast Dallas.

But first they need some help - and some things to give away.

"The Ultimate Experience & Exposure Organization would like to bless 300 students this 2023 prom season," the organizers say. "We are asking for your help on this service project."

They offer four ways the public can be of assistance:

1. Donate dresses, suits, accessories, and shoes. "Give away all of your old dresses, shoes, purses and jewelry, suits, ties, dress shoes, dress shirts, slacks, cuff links, and any other formal wear you believe a young man or woman should have for his or her prom night/life after high school," they say. (Note: Please make sure it's clean.)

Drop-offs are being scheduled on Saturdays at the church. To schedule a drop-off, email theultimatedebutante@gmail.com; donation deadline is March 25.

2. Donate your talent. "We need hair stylists/barbers, make-up artists, and nail technicians to sponsor a service for our youth for their special day," they say.

3. Donate your time. "On April 1, 2023 from 9 am-3 pm, we will need volunteers to help us make sure every student finds the perfect attire," they say.

4. Donate resources. "Help us fund one of our participants on their journey to pursue higher education by donating to our scholarship fund," they say.

Those interested in volunteering or donating their services or money can reach out to directors Dalton and Lyric Sherman at theultimatedebutante@gmail.com.

Once all the attire is compiled and organized, the big event - the Prom Dress & Suit Giveaway - will take place from 9 am-3 pm Saturday, April 1 at Compassionate Community Church, 7103 Rosemont Rd., Dallas, 75217.

The event is free and open to high school junior and seniors, who will will be able to select any attire without any stipulations attached. However, registration is required at this link. Student ID will be required at the door.

The event will include raffles, giveaways, vendors, music, and more.

This is the third big prom dress drive taking place in the Dallas area in 2023, but the first one to specifically include suits for the gentlemen.

St. Andrew United Methodist Church's Prom Closet is also currently accepting donations in Plano; more information is here. And the Comerica Bank Prom Dress Drive will take place throughout the month of February to benefit Dallas CASA and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas; more information is here.

Photo by Ray Carlin

Dallas YPs hit the jackpot at glittering casino-themed CASAblanca party

Put It All on Red

As one of the first events of spring society season, not to mention an essential party for young professionals, CASAblanca is a guaranteed glamorous night of gambling (with fake money, of course), dancing, and donating.

As always, proceeds from this year's sold-out event benefit Dallas CASA, which helps recruit, train, and supervise community volunteers that serve as advocates for local children in foster care. With that in mind, hundreds of YPs arrived at The Hall on Dragon ready to throw down dollars as well as dice.

After posing for pics at the photo booth and in front of the step-and-repeat, guests could either get down to betting business or browse the sumptuous silent auction, all while sipping watermelon margaritas studded with smoking dry ice.

Chairs Anuka Dhakal, Brooke Donelson, and Melissa Wongbust led the crowd to bust a move on the dance floor, with The Special Edition Band providing a high-energy soundtrack all night long.

Spotted on the dance floor and at the tables were Keaton and Michelle Mai, Christina Stephenson, Mike Feather, Michael and Cristina Swartz, Melody and Maurice Tisbe, Christina Nelson, Taylor Pearson, Latisha Chaney, Nicole Streich, Emily Black, Daniel Lopez, Tara Mulvey, Lacey Spell, Carson and Lizzy May, Tyre Wilson, Juan Nevarez, Sandra Martinez, Stephanie Felton, Scott Nixon, Rowan Gilvie, Liv Murphy, Rylie Hoover, Jeff Hummel, Maddie Kress, Kenzie Radke, Lauren Goodson, Chase Davis, Jordan and Chandler Dinardo, Lindsay and Jarrod Williams, Chance and Christy Woodard, Careyann and Corey Thomas, and Madi Wheeler.

In between shouts of "Red!" and "Blackjack!," attendees enjoyed passed appetizers and a well-stocked bar. Chefs served up veggie fried rice in traditional Chinese take-out containers, before ending the evening with take-home fried chicken biscuits.

Extra-special guests gathered in the roped-off VIP area, sponsored by Megan and Tom Sterquell.

All those hard-won chips translated into raffle tickets for prizes, such as a mirror ball-decorated bottle of Veuve Clicquot and a gift basket custom-made for hard-core coffee lovers.

CASAblanca began as a way to raise awareness among young Dallas citizens of the critical role an advocate can play in the life of a child living in foster care. Dallas CASA Young Professionals is an outreach, volunteer, and fundraising arm for Dallas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). The group is open to anyone ages 21 to 40 who wants to make a difference in the lives of abused children.

Photo by Ray Carlin

Brooke Donelson, Anuka Dhakal, Melissa Wong

Photo courtesy of Comerica Bank

Dallas bank launches 2023 prom dress drive with 6 easy drop-off locales

Prom dress extravaganza

It's officially prom season for high school juniors and seniors. But before the fancy "promposals" (usually) comes shopping for a fancy dress. Dallas' biggest prom dress drive - organized by Comerica Bank - is back to help many teenagers' shopping dreams come true.

The Comerica Bank Prom Dress Drive, now in its eighth year, will take place throughout the month of February to benefit Dallas CASA and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas.

From February 1-28, the public can drop off prom attire at six participating Comerica Bank locations in Dallas and Plano; contributors do not have to be bank customers to donate.

Items can be dropped off during business hours at the following Comerica Banking Centers:

Cole-Fitzhugh (3202 North Fitzhugh, Dallas)
Forest-Inwood (5200 Forest Ln., Dallas)
Lovers Lane-Devonshire (5647 W. Lovers Ln., Dallas)
NorthPark (8850 Boedeker St., Dallas)
Parker-Premier (3310 Premier Rd., Plano)
Preston Center (8225 Preston Rd., Dallas)

The apparel can be new or gently used, but they do ask that garments be cleaned. Dresses and ensembles of all sizes are welcome.

They are also accepting donations of shoes, purses, and accessories (ditto about them being clean).

"Donations will benefit local teens who otherwise may not be able to afford formal attire and experience the high school tradition of prom," organizers say in a release. "Comerica has donated close to 5,600 dresses to Dallas CASA and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas over the last seven years."

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas has provided life-changing services to more than a quarter of a million youngsters in Dallas and surrounding areas for more than 55 years. Dallas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) trains and supervises community volunteers who advocate for the best interests of children who have been removed from unsafe homes.

Once the donations are collected and assembled, a "shopping" event for the teens will be held at a later date. Watch for more information to come on the event website.

Comerica's is the second major DFW prom dress drive announced for 2023. St. Andrew United Methodist Church's Prom Closet is also currently accepting donations in Plano; more information here.

Photo by Amy E. Frost

The 7 essential parties of spring 2023 for philanthropic Dallas young professionals

Philanthropy is fun

Dallas' big-hearted, young movers and shakers work hard and play hard. Spring 2023 finally brings back a full slate of fantastic parties, power lunches, and galas for good causes. From a disco-themed Masquerade to a Derby-style Day at the Races, these are the seven top social events for every Dallas young professional's calendar.

CASAblanca, February 4
The Dallas CASA Young Professionals kick off YP social season with this fabulous casino party, filled with games, cocktails, appetizers, silent auctions, prizes, and dancing at The Hall on Dragon. After trying their luck at the blackjack and roulette tables, guests can get crazy on the dance floor to the sounds of The Special Edition band. The event is under the guidance of co-chairs Anuka Dhakal, Brooke Donelson, and Melissa Wong, and all proceeds benefit the children served by Dallas CASA. Note: Tickets are officially sold out, but the silent auction is open to the public here, and more information on how to help is here.

Masquerade, February 17
The Genesis Young Leaders are back with their spring fundraising bash after a two-year pandemic pause. Themed "A Night Out at the Disco," the event promises a sparkling evening of beats by DJ Blake Ward, an open bar with signature cocktails, casino games, a silent auction, roller skate entertainment, and more - all at The Empire Room. Dress code is semiformal - sequins encouraged - and co-chairs are Michael Anorue, Brooke Roshell, and David Green. All proceeds will benefit the many women and children whom Genesis Women's Shelter serves. Tickets are available here.

Junior League Milestones Luncheon with Rob Lowe, April 14
Known for snagging big-name Hollywood speakers, this year's event doesn't disappoint. Award-winning actor, activist, and author Rob Lowe is the keynote speaker for the annual Junior League of Dallas luncheon. Pam Busbee will be honored as Sustainer of the Year at the event, taking place at Omni Dallas Hotel and chaired by Heather McNamara. The luncheon benefits Junior League's many civic causes throughout greater Dallas. Tickets and more information are here.

Under the Moonlight and Into the Garden Gala, April 14
Ronald McDonald House of Dallas has an active "Young Friends" auxiliary organization who will no doubt be out in force at RMHD's Under the Moonlight and Into the Garden Gala. Taking place at the Northwood Club, the cocktail-attire affair is chaired by Laura Petka and Lauren Pond. The annual gala has, since 2006, raised more than $2 million for the families living at RMHD and has furthered their mission of supporting the health and well-being of seriously ill or injured children receiving treatment by providing them and their families a home-away-from-home. Watch for more information and tickets here.

Yellow Rose Gala, April 15
The Yellow Rose Gala comes back big at the Renaissance Dallas Hotel as the "Everything is Bigger in Texas Masquerade." Christie Eckler, David Moore, and Tamiko Ryan (three individuals who each live with multiple sclerosis) are the inspiring event co-chairs who'll help the organization raise money for a cure for MS. The night will also honor Patrick and Kristy Sands, and the Dee Wynne Courage award will be presented to the Walker Bateman IV family. The high-energy evening will also include live music by legendary Motown singer and performer GC Cameron. Tickets are available here.

CultureMap Tastemaker Awards, May 4
Save the date for the most scrumptious culinary event of the season (not that we're biased) and get ready to raise a glass to Dallas' restaurant and bar stars. The annual CultureMap Tastemaker Awards returns this spring — and tickets will be on sale soon. Join us May 4 at Fashion Industry Gallery (F.I.G.) for an evening honoring the very best of Dallas' culinary scene, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting our nonprofit partner, Harvest Project Food Rescue. More details will be coming soon.

Day at the Races, May 6
Those who can't make it to Churchill Downs have the next best option in this festive Kentucky Derby-themed party. Guests should show up to Turtle Creek Park dressed in their Derby best for Southern food, mint juleps, a silent auction, table games, "wagering," music, dancing, a best-dressed and best-hat competition, and of course, Kentucky Derby viewing. The event - now it its 15th year - is chaired by Katherine and Austin Wyker with honorary chairs Olivia and Charles Hasty - and benefits the work of Turtle Creek Conservancy. More information and tickets here.

Photo by Amy E. Frost

Members of Genesis Young Leaders at the annual Masquerade.

Ad Placement 300x100

Ad Placement 300x600

CultureMap Emails are Awesome

Property Showcase

Pitbull, Ricky Martin, and Enrique Iglesias team up for Trilogy tour headed to Dallas

Concert news

Three Latin superstars are headed to Dallas on a fall tour: Enrique Iglesias, Ricky Martin, and Pitbull will share the stage together for the first time ever as part of "The Trilogy Tour," which will hit the American Airlines Center on Friday, November 17.

This new 19-city tour produced by Live Nation kicks off in Washington, D.C., on October 14. The Texas leg of the tour hits Houston on November 18 at Toyota Center and AT&T Center in San Antonio on November 19.

As one would expect, the megastars promise to deliver an electrifying mix of their biggest, career-spanning hits with tastes of reggaeton, salsa pop, dance, and electronic all thrown in for good measure. Each showman will backed by world-class production and state-of-the-art visuals, per an announcement.

Live Nation recommends that fans register now through Sunday, June 4 at 10:59 pm0 for the Verified Fan presale here. Those who are selected to receive an access code will be able to participate in the Verified Fan presale starting on Wednesday, June 7. (More information on Verified Fan can be found here).

A limited number of tickets will be sold during a general on sale starting at 10 am Friday, June 9 at Ticketmaster.com — while supplies last.

Expect a slew of VIP packages and experiences, which include perks like an invitation to the pre-show VIP lounge, exclusive VIP tour poster, specially designed VIP gift item and more. More VIP information can be found at vipnation.com.

From prince to King Enrique
The son of Latin king Julio Iglesias, Enrique Iglesias has evolved from promising pop prince to arguably the biggest Latin recording artist in music history, with a wow-worthy 154 No. 1 singles across Billboard charts and 27 No. 1 singles on Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs Chart. Iglesias currently holds the record for most number ones in the chart’s history.

At once a sultry crooner and poppy persona, he fluidly moves between English and Spanish and genres to the tune of more than 180 million albums sold worldwide, released 11 studio albums, and three greatest hits compilations. To date, Iglesias has headlined 10 sold-out world tours and performed in front of more than 10 million fans.

Known for big collabs with Whitney Houston, Lionel Richie, Pitbull, and more, he boasts multiple Grammy, Billboard, ASCAP, and more major awards. His 14 billion views on YouTube/VEVO and 14 billion in streams make him one the most streamed and viewed artists on the planet.

"I am incredibly excited to be going on tour with my friends Pitbull and Ricky," Iglesias said in a tour announcement. "The Trilogy Tour will be an amazing experience for ALL of our fans. It’s going to be a once in a lifetime tour."

La Vida Ricky
A fresh-faced poser boy for '80s pop group Menudo, Ricky Martin grew up before fans eyes into a hunky, bellowing singer known for leaving it all out onstage. Often dubbed the "King of Latin Pop," Martin has scored more than 180 awards and multiple Grammy Awards, most recently for the EP Pausaa and the album PLAY, which features collaborations with Bad Bunny, Residente, and Sting.

The Puerto Rico native is also an accomplished actor, flexing his chops and earning an Emmy nomination in FX's The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story. He's next set to star in the highly anticipated Apple TV series Palm Royale, alongside Laura Dern, Kristen Wiig, Allison Janney, and Carol Burnett.

Martin has championed HIV and AIDS causes and founded the Ricky Martin Foundation, which actively fights against human trafficking and modern-day slavery. He is a Global Ambassador for UNICEF, has received the Hispanic Federation's "Humanitarian Award" and the Human Rights Campaign's "National Visibility Award." The City of New York declared "Ricky Martin Day" to honor his musical legacy and charitable work.

"Going back on the road with not only Enrique, but now with Pitbull it’s very exciting," Martin notes in a statement. "This tour will be a wild party from beginning to end so get ready, it's going to be epic!"

Mr. Worldwide
Grammy-winning showman Pitbull — aka Mr. Worldwide — has a golden touch when it comes to singalong party anthems and killer shows. As an artist, the Miami performer boasts billions of audio streams and video views plus hundreds of gold and platinum certifications. As an entrepreneur, he co-owns the NASCAR racing team Trackhouse and tours with life strategy guru Tony Robbins on motivational speaking engagements.

Famed for his fiesta vibe, Armando Christian "Pitbull" Perez is dead serious about education as he helped establish the nationwide Sports Leadership Arts and Management (SLAM!), tuition-free public charter schools.

“It’s a true honor to tour with Enrique and Ricky, 2 music icons, who broke global music barriers for our culture and open doors for someone like myself,” said Pitbull. “We’re excited to take The Trilogy tour around the world and give our fans the time of their Trilogy lives, Dale!"

Here are the official dates for The Trilogy Tour:

Sat Oct 14 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena

Tue Oct 17 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena

Fri Oct 20 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre

Sat Oct 21– Boston, MA – TD Garden

Thu Oct 26 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden

Sat Oct 28 – Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center

Wed Nov 01 – Chicago, IL – United Center

Fri Nov 03 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena

Thu Nov 09 – Orlando, FL – Amway Center

Fri Nov 10 – Miami, FL – Kaseya Center

Fri Nov 17 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center

Sat Nov 18 – Houston – Toyota Center

Sun Nov 19 – San Antonio, TX – AT&T Center

Fri Nov 24 – Las Vegas, NV – T-Mobile Arena

Sat Nov 25 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center

Thu Nov 30 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena

Wed Dec 06 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center

Fri Dec 08 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena

Sun Dec 10 – Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena

Photo via @LeandrovCo

Ricky Martin brings his vida loca.

3 Dallas-Fort Worth entrepreneurs rank among Forbes' richest self-made women for 2023

Elite entrepreneurs

Twelve of the country's 100 most successful female entrepreneurs live in Texas this year, and three of them call Dallas-Fort Worth home. So says Forbes in its 2023 list of America's Richest Self-Made Women, released June 1.

"Bolstered in part by a rebound in the stock market, [the richest 100 female entrepreneurs] are cumulatively worth a record $124 billion, up nearly 12% from a year ago," says Forbes.

To make the Forbes list, women had to garner wealth on their own, rather than by inheriting or winning it.

Texas' wealthiest women have made their fortunes in fields ranging from home health care, insurance, and aviation logistics to jewelry design, dating apps, and running the show at SpaceX.

The three female entrepreneurs from North Texas who appear in the elite club of America’s richest self-made women (and their national rankings) are:

Robyn Jones, No. 29, of Fort Worth. Her net worth is estimated at $830 million. Jones is founder of Westlake-based Goosehead Insurance Agency LLC. She started the property and casualty insurance agency in 2003 after being frustrated with her truck-driver husband's "road warrior lifestyle," Forbes says. He joined her in 2004 and they took the company public in 2018. It has nearly 1,000 franchised offices.
April Anthony, No. 34, of Dallas. Forbes puts her net worth at $740 million. She founded the Dallas-based home health and hospice division of Encompass Health Corp and sold it for $750 million to HealthSouth. In 2022, she was named CEO of VitalCaring, a home health and hospice care firm.
Kathleen Hildreth, No. 44, of Aubrey. Her net worth is estimated at $590 million. Hildreth is co-founder of M1 Support Services LP, an aviation logistics company based in Denton. A service-disabled Army veteran, she graduated from West Point in 1983 and was deployed all around the world as a helicopter pilot.

The nine other Texans who appear on the list are from Austin and Central Texas. With an estimated net worth at $4.8 billion, Thai Lee, of Austin, remains at the top of the list in Texas, and ranks No. 5 nationally.

She falls behind only No. 1 Diane Hendricks of Wisconsin (co-founder of ABC Supply, $15 billion net worth); No. 2 Judy Loveof Oklahoma (chairman and CEO, Love's Travel Stops And Country Stores, $10.2 billion); No. 3 Judy Faulkner of Wisconsin (founder and CEO, Epic Systems, $7.4 billion); and No. 4 Lynda Resnick of California (co-founder and co-owner of Wonderful Company, $5.3 billion) among America's richest self-made women.

For some additional perspective, Oprah Winfrey lands at No. 13 on the list for 2023. The TV titan (and most famous woman on the planet) has an estimated net worth of $2.5 billion, Forbes says.

Austin's Lee, a native of Bangkok who holds an MBA from Harvard University, is founder, president, and CEO of SHI International Corp., a provider of IT products and services with a projected revenue of $14 billion in 2023. Fun fact: "Lee majored in both biology and economics," Forbes says, "in part because her English was less than perfect and she wanted to avoid writing and speaking in class."

The remaining eight Texas women on the list are:

Gwynne Shotwell, No. 27, of Jonesboro (Coryell-Hamilton counties). Her net worth is estimated at $860 million. Shotwell is president and COO of Elon Musk's SpaceX. She manages the operations of the commercial space exploration company and owns an estimated stake of 1 percent, Forbes says.
Lisa Su, No. 34, Austin. Forbes pegs Su’s net worth at $740 million, tying her with April Anthony of Dallas. The native of Taiwan is president and CEO of Santa Clara, California-based semiconductor company Advanced Micro Devices.
Kendra Scott, No. 47, of Austin.Forbes says she has amassed a net worth of $550 million as founder of Kendra Scott LLC, which designs and sells jewelry in more than 100 stores (and is worth $360 million). The celebrity entrepreneur is also a judge on TV's Shark Tank.
Whitney Wolfe Herd, No. 52, of Austin. She is worth an estimated $510 million. Herd is co-founder and CEO of Bumble Inc., which operates two online dating apps: Bumble and Badoo. She owns a 17% stake in Bumble and became the youngest self-made woman billionaire after it went public in February 2021.
Paige Mycoskie, No. 73, of Austin. She is worth an estimated $380 million. Mycoskie created founded her 1970s-inspired California lifestyle brand, Aviator Nation, which took off during the pandemic and now has 16 retail locations across the U.S. If the name sounds familiar, that's because she'sl the sister of TOMS founder Blake Mycoskie, with whom she competed on TV's The Amazing Race.
Imam Abuzeid, No. 77, of Austin. Her net worth is estimated at $350 million. Abuzeid is the co-founder and CEO of Incredible Health, which she started in 2017 to help alleviate America's nursing shortage. Forbes describes it as "a souped-up version of LinkedIn for nurses." Abuzeid is one of only a handful of Black female founders to run a company valued at more than $1 billion, Forbes notes.
Julia Cheek, No. 92, of Austin. Her net worth is estimated at $260 million. Cheek founded at-home testing company Everly Health in 2015 "out of frustration at having to pay thousands for lab testing to diagnose issues related to vitamin imbalance," Forbes says. It got a Shark Tank deal with Lori Greiner and is now worth roughly $1.8 billion.
Belinda Johnson, No. 96, of Austin. She is worth an estimated $250 million. Johnson was Airbnb's first chief operating officer and led many of its legal disputes. She stepped down from that role in March 2020, Forbes says, and left the company's board in June 2023.

Plano sizzles with hot music and cool pools all summer long

Fun in the Sun

The sun is shining, the kids are out of school, and you're all ready for some summer fun. Plano's where it's at, with everything from concerts to happy hours on tap this summer.

Dive in
From Memorial through Labor days, take a refreshing dip in 168,000 gallons of saltwater that's shaped like the great state of Texas. This membership-supported community pool (there are tourist passes available) features a diving board, two water slides, and an island with a shallow "South Texas" wading area for the little ones. Picnic tables, a beach volleyball court, barbecue grills, and a snack bar complete the experience.

C'mon, get happy
Head to Legacy West for its monthly sip-and-shop Happy Hour Hikes, where you can sample beer, wine, cocktails, and food; receive exclusive offers at shops and restaurants; and enjoy entertainment throughout the Legacy West neighborhood. There are also photo opps, featured local artisans and nonprofits, and a chance to win a $300 gift basket to your favorite store.

The hikes happen from 6-9 pm the first Thursday of the month, aka June 1, July 6, and August 3 in the summer. Participants must be 21 and up, and groups of 10 or more get a discount by emails happyhourhike@lot32.com.

Tasty tunes
From Monday night karaoke to a concert lineup that includes all your favorite genres of music, live music at Legacy Hall is a rockin' good time. Check upcoming acts here, and then arrive early to enjoy dinner from nearly 20 eateries and craft cocktails from five-plus bars.

For an even more elevated experience, reserve a Balcony VIP Lounge (21 and up only) and enjoy dedicated cocktail service, soft seating, and the best view of the stage. Fridays and Saturdays also come with free admission to the Late Night After Party on the third floor of Legacy Hall in High Bar.

First-rate Fourth
America's birthday is a big deal in Plano, beginning with a free patriotic concert on July 3 at 7 pm. Plano Community Band will be playing in Haggard Park in the Downtown Plano Historic Arts District.

On the Fourth itself, cheer on — or walk in! — the Rotary Clubs of Plano 4th of July parade at 7:30 pm. The route travels along Spring Creek Parkway in between Collin College and the Red Tail Pavilion, and you can sign up to participate here.

The parade is smack in the middle of Plano's All-American 4th, a free festival that starts at 6 pm and features a kids’ zone sponsored by Champion Energy Services and a fireworks show beginning at 9:30 pm. Blankets, lawn chairs, and coolers are welcome, with food and beverages available for purchase from onsite vendors — sorry, no pups allowed.

Staycation vibes
With all this fun on the agenda, you'll want to stay more than a day. Immerse yourself in Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel's "West of Zen" culture, with gorgeous artifacts hidden away in every public corner, and the menus for both beverage and food offer a bold take on Asian fusion.

Dine in the main restaurant, ŌMA, grab a quick bite at the quaint Texas Teahouse & Marketplace, or dip into The Whiskey Moon Bar + Lounge to sample its impressive selection of American, European, and Asian whiskeys.

Enjoy DJs on the pool deck every Saturday afternoon during the summer or live music at Whiskey Moon every Saturday evening — see a lineup here.

Speaking of the rooftop pool, you can now book private cabanas through Resort Pass and stay shady all summer long.

See all your Plano accommodation options here.

Photo courtesy of Happy Hour Hike

Join the Happy Hour Hike the first Thursday of each month.

---

For a complete guide to Plano, head to www.visitplano.com.

View All Listings