In 1957, the world's first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, was launched into space by the Soviet Union. The satellite's radio signals were picked up by a young boy in North Texas. Who was this boy?

Smoke'N Ash BBQ in Arlington received a "Recommended" distinction from the first-ever Michelin Guide Texas in 2024 and previously made The New York Times' best restaurants list in 2022.

This year, four Texas restaurants were included in The New York Times' list, featuring diverse cuisines such as West African, New American steak and seafood, Lao American, and Thai-Chinese.

The Times' reporters and editors followed strict principles while compiling the list, emphasizing unbiased reviews and regular dining experiences.

While North Texas did not have any restaurants on the 2025 list, Simply South, a vegetarian Indian restaurant in Irving, made the 2024 list.

Every Monday, Hugs Cafe in McKinney buzzes with activity as employees with developmental and intellectual disabilities prepare peach chutney, ice cookies, and pack catering orders.

 

Executive Director Lauren Smith highlights how the café cultivates purpose, creating a family-like atmosphere for its staff.

 

Hugs Cafe is one of over 3,200 nonprofits participating in North Texas Giving Day, organized by the Communities Foundation of Texas, which raised more than $70 million in 2024 for local causes.

 

Rebecca Babin, North Texas Giving Day’s Senior Director, emphasized the growing need among nonprofits this year, driven by unprecedented funding cuts.

 

Events like North Texas Giving Day are now vital for organizations such as Hugs Cafe, which plans to expand to Dallas, doubling its positive impact.

 

Donations directly support inclusion and meaningful employment, offering chances for everyone to discover a greater sense of belonging and purpose.

Since 1993, Texas Roadhouse® has been serving up fresh, hand-crafted meals made the way they were meant to be — with no shortcuts and all the flavor. Every steak is hand-cut, every side made from scratch, and fresh bread rolls are baked every five minutes to make sure every visit feels like a warm welcome home.

That same spirit lives on today, where families, friends, and coworkers can sit down to enjoy fall-off-the-bone ribs, perfectly grilled steaks, and hearty sides in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Now a favorite around the world, Texas Roadhouse® is proof that no matter where you are, there’s always room for a little Texas tradition at the table.

Texas de Brazil, a beloved Brazilian-American steakhouse, continues to shine as a leader in community giving through high-impact charitable campaigns.

 

In July 2024, the restaurant raised over $35,000 for the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces, bringing vital support to military members, veterans, and their families.

 

Building on this momentum, Texas de Brazil hosted a nationwide fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in August and September, collecting over $150,000 to aid life-saving research and care.

 

Celebratory events in October brought together restaurant leadership and charity partners, highlighting the local impact of these initiatives.

 

In May 2025, Texas de Brazil teamed up with The Honor Foundation to help Special Operations Forces transition successfully into civilian life, showing enduring respect and gratitude for military service.

 

Through these efforts, Texas de Brazil continues its mission of blending exceptional dining with meaningful community support.

Q&A Questions

Q: What is the most populous city in North Texas?

A: Dallas

Q: Which university in North Texas has the largest enrollment?

A: University of North Texas

Q: What is the nickname of the football team representing the University of North Texas?

A: Mean Green

Billy Gene Davis