DECEMBER 2025
Employee Newsletter
Employee Spotlight
Kami McAdoo
Recreation Specialist: Programs
Kami grew up in College Station, TX. She met her husband and best friend, Matthew, at Texas A&M, and the two have pretty much been inseparable ever since (unless we’re talking about shopping at Target) They got married four years ago and do almost everything together.
Kami and Matthew are expecting their first baby in early February, and it’s a boy They also have a dog, Josie lovingly called their “generic brand goldendoodle” because she looks fancy but is really just a mutt at heart.
They love weekend baseball games, hunting, and hanging out with their Westlake Fire Department family. And when she’s not pregnant, she and Matthew are big fans of doing CrossFit together.
Community is a huge part of Kami’s life, especially through the Westlake Fire Department. The friendships, activities, and support she’s found there have truly become like an extended family
It’s no surprise that Kami’s favorite part of her job is the people. She loves building relationships whether she’s working with k h tti g h r suppo
Cynkar
Custodian
Devon Hall
Custodian
Reagan Parks After School Counselor
Joshua
birthdays
Cody petree
lenny rose
patrick marcum
doug parks
braeden lindner
shiela horton
andrew davis
joseph dubski
edwin ortiz
heather hollingsworth
alisha lathrop
clint eustace
Evan lish
greg davis
james bailey
quentin willis
kelly holt
jesse escobar
robert voelker
12/1 12/1 12/3 12/5 12/8 12/12 12/12 12/13 12/15 12/17 12/17 12/18 12/20 12/20 12/22 12/23 12/25 12/28 12/31
amy bockes nash ruten
michael maclean
jay sullivan
trey richardson
blake gore darnell dean babette welch jeriahme miller 1 year 1 year 3 years 3 years 3 years
years
It’s ok if it’s not the most wonderful time of the year....
Taking Care of Yourself This Holiday Season
In the immortal words of Buddy the Elf, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!”.
Truth be known, not everyone feels the same excitement around the holidays, and it's OK to not be OK. Let’s take a moment and think about ways to take care of ourselves this holiday, and in turn, be contagious with our joyful spirit
Maybe this year is the first time you will be experiencing the new normal, life is different, and that’s OK. The holidays can often bring stress, sadness, loneliness, and sometimes, a crisis that needs a little attention.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of individuals who live with a mental illness actually experience worse symptoms around the holidays. Social and emotional factors like isolation, finances, grief and even seasonal weather issues can make this time of year seem overwhelming. If that sounds familiar, you ’ re not alone. And more importantly help is available Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health
Here are a few simple, realistic ways to support your well-being during the holidays: Pay attention to how you ’ re feeling
It’s okay if you don’t feel cheerful all the time Noticing your emotions is the first step toward taking care of yourself.
Have a plan for the tough moments
Think ahead about what might help when stress, sadness, or loneliness shows up. That could be calling a friend, taking a walk, doing something you enjoy, or watching a favorite comfort movie
Make time for yourself
Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. Read a book, get some fresh air, move your body, or try deep breathing or mindfulness. Even small moments can make a big difference
Stay connected
If you can’t be with loved ones, look for ways to stay connected community groups, clubs, faith groups, or simple phone calls and check-ins can help fight isolation.
Look out for one another
The holidays can be especially hard for those who are grieving or feeling alone. A simple text or call to check in on a coworker, friend, or neighbor can mean more than you realize. Be mindful of seasonal mood changes
Some people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) when days get shorter If you notice persistent feelings of sadness, fatigue, or loss of interest, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. Support and treatment are available.
Be cautious with alcohol and other substances
For those in recovery or struggling, the holidays can be especially challenging. Having a plan for social events and leaning on support systems can help. Checking in on friends and family members can also make a difference Know when to reach out for help
If things start to feel overwhelming, please know you don’t have to handle it alone. Support is available, and reaching out is a strong and healthy step. You are not alone Help is available
See next page for information regarding EAP. EAP is COMPLETELY confidential. The City will never be notified of anyone requesting services.
If you or someone you love are in need of immediate assistance, you can call or text the Suicide Hot line at 988.
Life can get pretty hectic, and when health or insurance questions arise, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where Health Advocate steps in for you and your family.
With Health Advocate, you and your loved ones gain access to friendly experts ready to assist with all your health and wellness needs. They’ll take care of the legwork, making sure you get the right care, information, and support. Plus, you can reach out in the way that feels most comfortable for you whether it’s by phone, online, or through the app.
Health Advocate can help:
Find care – We’ll help you locate in-network doctors, specialists, or hospitals.
Simplify insurance – Let us resolve billing issues and help you understand your coverage.
Coordinate care – We’ll schedule appointments and transfer medical records for you.
Emotional support – Access confidential counseling and wellness coaching whenever you need it.
Chronic care support – Get assistance in managing ongoing health conditions. Save time – We’ll handle the details so you can focus on what truly matters to you.
Nov 21-Dec 23
Nov 21-22
Nov 22- Dec 23
Nov 28- Dec 27
Dec 2-23
Dec 5-23
Dec 5-21
Dec 12-28
Dec 13
Dec 13-14
Dec 19-20
Dec 20
Dec 21-23
Holiday Theatre
Nov 28-29
Nov 29-30
Dec 2
Dec 2-21
Dec 5
Dec 5
Dec 5-7
Dec 8, 14 & 15
Dec 12-21
Dec 13
Dec 13
Dec 16
Dec 20
Holiday Inn- Plaza Theatre Company
The Nutcracker- Artistic Motion Dance Academy
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer- Casa Mañana
Dallas Theater Center's a Christmas Carol
Classic Christmas Cartoons & Crafts -Lancaster Theater
A Christmas Carol- The Granbury Theatre Company
The Game’s Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays- Theatre
Arlington
The Nutcracker- Texas Ballet Theater
Espresso Nutcracker- Dallas Black Dance Theatre
Amahl and the Night Visitors- Stage West
The Nutcracker- North Central Ballet
The Nutcracker- Art Ballet Academy
Santa is Going Digital- Farr Best Theater
Holiday Concerts
Home for the Holidays-Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra
Cliburn Family Concerts- The Polar Express
Mariachi Herencia de México: A Mariachi Christmas
A Rock ‘ n ’ Roll Christmas - Casa Mañana
Holidays with the UNT One O'Clock Lab Band for KING + COUNTRY- The Texas Trust CU Theatre
Home Alone in Concert- Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Christmas Orchestra Concert Series- Brazos Chamber Orchestra
Dallas Symphony Christmas Pops
Dallas Symphony Family Christmas Pops
Elf in Concert- Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra
Sounds of the Season- Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra
Trans Siberian Orchestra The Ghosts of Christmas Eve- American Airlines Center
Dec 21-22
Pentatonix: Christmas in the City Tour- Dickies Arena
PICTURES WithSanta
Here are a few places in the DFW to take pictures with Santa!
Bass Pro Shops - Across North Texas
FREE 4x6 photo with Santa! Starting Dec. 1st Click HERE for more details
Cowboy Santa’s Barn in the FW Stockyards
Starting at $25
Every Tuesday through Sunday from Nov. 28 through Dec. 23 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Also open on Dec. 22 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Dec. 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Santa and crew take a break daily from 2:45 to 3:45 p.m. 130 East Exchange Ave., Fort Worth.
Santa at The Star in Frisco
Hosted indoors at Santa’s Cottage on a Cowboys-th set, photos with St. Nick start at $39 and include printed 5-by-7 photo. You can save $5 by booki before Dec. 7 with the code STAR5. Appointment be booked at santaatthestarinfrisco.as.me.
Discover additional details about events and ticket purchases by scanning this QR code.
Each year, this festive town comes alive with millions of twinkling lights, parades, holiday shows, and more than 1,400 Christmas events throughout the season.
Stroll along Historic Main Street, where every shop and restaurant is dressed in its holiday best, or take a ride on the North Pole Express® for cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa. Don’t miss the Gaylord Texan Resort’s ICE! exhibit or the Peace Plaza Ice Rink, perfect for a little winter fun.
Whether you visit for the day or make a weekend of it, Grapevine is full of cheer, charm, and Christmas spirit everything you need to get in the holiday mood!
Looking for a fun way to kick off the holiday season close to home? Check out Frostival at Howell Farms in Arlington!
This local favorite turns the farm into a festive winter wonderland with sparkling lights, live music, great food, and plenty of family-friendly fun.
You can roast s ’ mores by the fire, take a carriage ride, visit Santa, or lace up your skates for a spin on the ice. There are also local vendors, photo ops, and holiday treats around every corner.
Scan code for info and tickets
Prairie Lights is the premier holiday light park in Texas located at Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake in Grand Prairie, Texas. Prairie Lights 2025 will feature a state-of-the-art light tunnel, a REIMAGINED magical walk-thru forest, CAPTIVATING animated light displays, carnival rides, photos with Santa, holiday shopping, and more!
Scan code for info and tickets
The hard working elves who create the wonderful Interlochen Holiday Lights year after year are just ordinary folks who love sharing the spirit of the season.
They are rewarded by the enthusiasm from generations of families for whom visiting the Arlington attraction is a Christmas custom.
Many have watched this tradition grow from an idea by longtime resident and original developer Bob Findlay to a big time event that draws tourists from all over the region and is known throughout the world.
Scan code for map
The free display continues thanks to both new and longtime neighbors who say they cherish seeing the sheer delight on the faces of the visitors. The good folks of Interlochen value the Christmas tradition so much they share the merriment by recycling their unused decorations with others in the iconic lakeside neighborhood, and a group of them volunteer to assist elderly neighbors with the task of decorating for the crowds.
M orrisdale Estates
Morrisdale Estates neighborhood in Euless is known for great light displays. The Morrisdale tradition is for everyone in the neighborhood to put up the same red lights on their curbs to create a sea of red as you drive through the neighborhood.
Bonus that it's still a bit of an undiscovered gem, so there's not as much traffic as other neighborhoods. Find the neighborhood between Pipeline Road and Hurst Blvd., 76040
A charming community in Euless, TX where neighbors go all-out to spread holiday cheer.
101 Ideas for Holiday Family Fun
Santa Sightings
Nov 1- Dec 24
Nov 15- Dec 24
Nov 22
Nov 23
Nov 24, 2025- Jan 4, 2026
Dec 4
Dec 5
Dec 5
Dec 5
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 12-14
Dec 13
Dec 13
Dec 13
Dec 13
Santa's Wonderland- Bass Pro Shops
Main Street Santa- Grapevine
Home for the Holidays- Southlake
Fort Worth Parade of Lights
Snowland- Great Wolf Lodge
Parade of Lights- Grapevine
KPR Holly Days
Christmas Tree Lighting- Richland Hills
Christmas Tree Lighting- Bedford
Dallas Holiday Parade
Denton Holiday Lighting Festival
Roanoke's Hometown Holiday
Breakfast with Santa- The Keller Pointe
Midlothian Christmas Celebration
Decatur Chamber Parade Of Lights
Breakfast with Santa- The Grove at Frisco Commons
Prosper Christmas Festival
Holiday in the Park- The Colony
Merry Main Street- Frisco
Photos with Santa at Fort Worth Aviation Museum
Christmas Tyme in Aledo
Holidays at the Heard
Winter Wonder Lights- Trophy Club
Christmas at the Ranch- Doubletree Ranch Park
First Responder's Breakfast with Santa
Arlington Holiday Lights Parade
Christmas Tree Experience
Opens Nov 28
Opens Nov 28
Sunset Hill Tree Farm- Alvarado
Mainstay Farm- Cleburne
Ice Skating
Nov 18, 2025- Jan 5, 2026
Nov 21, 2025- Jan 5, 2026
Nov 22, 2025- Jan 6, 2026
Stockyards Rodeo Rink
Skate the Square- Frisco
Peace Plaza Skating Rink- Grapevine Ice at the Parks-Arlington Comerica Center- Frisco
Shopping & Craft Fairs
Nov 29-30
Dec 6-7
Dec 6
Nov 28
Dec 2
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 6
Dec 12
Dec 13
Dec 17
Dec 14
Dec 14
Christmas In Grapevine Craft Show
It's Christmas Market Expo- Will Rogers Memorial Center
Christmas Tyme in Aledo - Arts & Crafts Fair
Miscellaneous
Night of Lights Christmas Parade- Granbury
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony- Decatur
Breakfast with the Grinch- Denton Civic Center
Frosty 5k - Frisco
Saginaw Parade of Lights
Merry Movie Night- Midlothian
18th Annual Reindeer Romp 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run
12th Annual Community Chanukah Celebration- The Star
Chanukah Babyccino- Chabad of Frisco
Chanukah Menorah Lighting- Galleria Dallas
New Year's Eve
Dec 26, 2025- Jan 4, 2026
Dec 31
Dec 31
Dec 31
Rockin’ New Years Celebration- Six Flags Over Texas
Noon Year's Eve- Prosper Community Library
Noon Years Eve!- Southeast Branch Library
Noon Years Eve- Bedford Public Library
Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New
Year!
Babette, Lee Ann, Kim, Ceci & Cristina