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JFC Great Place to Work Celebration JFC celebrated with a week of fun for the hard-working staff, which included a hippie-themed BBQ to disco with churros, a tie-dye pizza party, and a luau with Italian Ice. The week concluded with Fowler Spirit Day and a taco truck.

Great Place to Work Institute and its senior care partner Activated Insights have honored Juliette Fowler Communities with certification as a Great Place to Work. The certification process involved surveying 100% of employees from Juliette Fowler Communities and evaluating more than 60 elements of team members' experience on the job. These included employee pride in the organization's community impact, belief that their work makes a difference, and feeling their work has special meaning. Rankings are based on employees' experiences, no matter who they are or what they do.

According to Fowler President and CEO Nicole Gann, "Achieving Fortune's Great Place to Work® status at Fowler is a testament to the dedication of our staff. Our talented team creates a purpose-driven community for seniors of every income level, provides engaging support and care for those with dementia, and improves the lives of Dallas children, youth, and families in need. We are also pleased to be recognized as one of our size's top 25 Workplaces in Aging Services."

"We applaud Juliette Fowler Communities for seeking certification and publicly sharing its employees' feedback," said Dr. Jacquelyn Kung of Great Place to Work's senior care partner, Activated Insights. "These ratings measure its capacity to earn its employees' trust and create a great workplace for high performance."

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About Juliette Fowler Communities

With an over 130-year history of caring for all ages, Fowler's intergenerational mission creates a unique purpose-driven retirement culture in the heart of Dallas. In addition to providing a home to almost 500 older adults, Fowler is proud to host the Dementia Friendly Dallas initiative and recently attained "I'm Still Here" certification as a program of distinction in cognitive health. Eight young women in danger of homelessness live at Fowler in the Ebby House residential program, and over 700 children and foster families receive resources through Fowler's Children, Youth, and Family Services. Fowler is set to expand to include additional memory care, an adult day program centered on dementia, and a Bezos Academy affordable Montessori program for young children in 2026.

About Activated Insights and Great Place to Work

Activated Insights is the senior care affiliate of Great Place to Work, the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through its aging services certification program, Activated Insights helps Great Place to Work recognize outstanding workplace cultures in the aging services industry and produce the annual Fortune "Best Workplaces for Aging Services™" as well as other Great Place to Work Best Workplaces lists for Millennials, Women, Diversity, Small & Medium Companies, and various regions. Through its employee engagement platform, Activated Insights helps clients create great workplaces that outpace peers on key business metrics like revenue growth, profitability, and retention. Learn more at ActivatedInsights.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Michelle Metzger
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Dr. Grady Goodwin serves as medical director of The Clinic at CC Young Senior Living and has been named by D Magazine to the 2024 Best Doctors in the Dallas-Fort Worth area as selected by his peers.

“We are proud to be the only Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in Dallas in 2024 to receive this recognition for our medical director,” said CC Young Chief Executive Officer Russell Crews. “Dr. Goodwin helps assure our residents receive the best medical care in our onsite clinic, and this distinction from D Magazine reinforces the stellar and compassionate care we know he is delivering.”

CC Young Senior Living has been serving senior adults since 1922. Known for stellar services, CC Young holds a 5-Star overall Quality Rating from the Centers of Medicare Services in skilled nursing care, home health, and hospice.

For more information or to schedule a tour, visit www.ccyoung.org.

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In response to the overwhelming demand for ‘better for you’ convenient breakfast options, Fresh Innovations, LLC, the parent company to ¡Yo Quiero!, has launched the most innovative product in their roster yet:  Avocado & Egg, to stores throughout Dallas/Ft. Worth. Nutritionists and the medical community herald this nutrient-dense combination as being not only excellent for regenerative health and longevity but as a nourishing way to kickstart the day.

Tara Murray, VP of Marketing for ¡Yo Quiero!, a family-owned Texas-based company known for their commitment the help people ‘eat good to feel good’, emphasizes the nutritional value of combining avocados and eggs. "The unique blend of avocados and eggs isn't just satisfying; it's also a powerhouse of nutrients," she explains. Avocados provide potassium, fiber, heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, and folate, while eggs contribute protein along with essential micronutrients such as choline, B vitamins, and vitamin D. Murray highlights avocados as a staple in the health world due to their myriad benefits, emphasizing that registered dietitians endorse daily consumption for optimal health.

VIDEO: Registered dietitian, Tracy Lockwood Beckerman, shares the benefits of eating avocados

Not only does the winning combination of avocado and egg contribute to feeling good, but it also aids in looking as good as one feels. According to the National Library of Medicine, avocados stand out as one of the few foods rich in both vitamins C and E. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in recycling vitamin E, thereby maintaining circulatory antioxidant protection. These antioxidants also work to maintain youthful skin by minimizing wrinkles and shielding against UV damage, the same nutrients that safeguard your eyes also offering protection to your skin.

"There's no doubt about the potency of pairing avocado and eggs," states Jay Alley, Co-Owner and Vice President of ¡Yo Quiero! "These two nutrient-rich foods, when combined, foster a healthy brain, promote stress-reducing hormones, support heart health, combat aging, and alleviate insomnia. As pioneers in all things avocado, with increasing demand, we're swiftly bringing this new product to retail shelves."

¡Yo Quiero!’s Avocado & Egg is packaged with four 2oz mini cups recommended for health-conscious breakfast-eaters everywhere. ¡Yo Quiero!’s Avocado & Egg packs, flavored With Everything Seasoning, Spicy Crushed Red Pepper, or Spinach Tomato Onion, are currently available at your local Albertson’s, Tom Thumb, Market Street and United Grocery stores.  Please look for the ¡Yo Quiero! Avocado & Egg mini cups in the produce section next to the dips and cut veggies. To learn more about ¡Yo Quiero! visit www.yoquierobrands.com and www.freshinnovationsllc.com.

 

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Dallas Cowboys linebacker Eric Kendricks made a special visit today to Texans Can Academy - Pleasant Grove in support of Cars for Kids and the school’s efforts to provide a second chance for at-risk youth. The event was a huge success, with students getting the opportunity to meet one of their football heroes and hear firsthand about the importance of perseverance, education, and following their dreams.

Eric Kendricks, known for his passion for cars, was excited to be part of the event. “I’ve always had a love for cars, and to see how something as simple as a car donation can change a kid’s life here in Dallas is truly special,” Kendricks said. “I’m proud to be a Dallas Cowboy, and being able to support the community that supports me means everything. I relate to these kids in so many ways—growing up, I had challenges too. My goal is to inspire them to chase their dreams, no matter what obstacles they face.”

Kendricks spoke to the students about his journey, offering words of encouragement, and emphasized the importance of education as a tool for success. The event provided inspiration to students who may face challenges in traditional school settings, reminding them that success is possible with hard work and support.

“Today’s event was a resounding success, and we’re incredibly grateful for Eric’s involvement,” said Rudy Oeftering, Board Chair at Cars for Kids. “We look forward to the positive impact this will have on Texans Can Academies and the students. The support from both Eric and Cars for Kids will continue to help these students achieve their dreams beyond graduation.”

For more information on how to donate to Cars for Kids and support Texans Can Academies, visit www.carsforkids.org.

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The Light Park has announced the opening of its dazzling holiday light displays at six Texas locations—Round Rock, Arlington, Frisco, Katy, Selma, and Spring—starting on November 1, 2024. “By opening a bit earlier in the season and adding a sixth location, we’re giving our guests more opportunities to join in the holiday spirit with us! Throughout the season, we see carloads of people returning because the experience is so visually captivating and full of energy,” says Matt Johnson, Co-Creator of The Light Park. “Our best advice to visitors is to plan early and get ready to be amazed by the brilliance of millions of spectacular lights in our drive-thru holiday park. While the lights go up, the prices stay down with early-bird pricing on pre-purchased tickets.”

Back by popular demand with the addition of their new Central Texas location in Round Rock, just North of Austin, The Light Park is an immersive, mile-long, drive-thru spectacular. It has been heralded as “one of the coolest ways to brighten your holiday season”, where guests witness millions of lights synchronized to an electric mix of music powered by DJ Polar Ice from the North Pole’s #1 Hit Radio station, K-GLO.

"We take great joy in seeing guests of all ages create lasting memories. Our team invites everyone to safely load up their cars, as our entrance fee is per vehicle, not per person. This way, everyone—including pets—can enjoy the magic of driving through the world's longest holiday light tunnel, grooving to the best tunes, and capturing Instagram-worthy moments, all for one admission price," says Johnson. "So, pack your cars, grab some treats (or buy some along the way), and enjoy the ride. Remember, tickets must be purchased online in advance with a reserved show time."

Those interested in learning more or purchasing admission can visit www.thelightpark.com. Cost starts at $29 per vehicle* for pre-purchased tickets, and admission varies per showtime (weekdays and weekends). Visitors must stay in their vehicles the entire time while visiting the park and while on the park property. Guests are encouraged to bring their snacks to enjoy while in their cars, but there are wonderful ways to upgrade your experience with pre-purchased snacks and fun souvenirs to enhance the experience of The Light Park.  

*Please note no vehicles over 30 feet will be allowed in the park; this includes limousines, trailers and buses.

 

Opens on November 1, 2024

Mondays - Thursdays: 5:30 - 10:00pm

Fridays - Sundays: 5:30 - 11:00pm

 

CHRISTMAS WEEK HOURS

Dec 18-25: 5:30-11pm

 

Where:

Frisco (runs through 1/5/25)

Riders Field

7300 Rough Riders Trail

Frisco, TX 75034

 

Arlington (runs through 1/5/25)

Hurricane Harbor Arlington

1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006

 

Katy (runs through 1/5/25)

Typhoon Texas Waterpark Parking Lot

555 Katy Fort Bend Rd

Katy, TX 77494

 

Round Rock (runs through 1/5/25)

Dell Diamond

Parking Lot

3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665

 

San Antonio (runs through 1/1/25)

Retama Park Parking Lot

1 Retama Pkwy

Selma, TX 78154

 

Spring (runs through 1/1/25)

Hurricane Harbor Parking Lot

21300 Interstate 45 N

Spring, TX 77373

 

Prices: $29-$125

 

To Purchase Online: https://www.thelightpark.com/

 

About The Light Park

The Light Park offers six parks in Texas: Round Rock, Spring, Katy, Selma, Arlington and Frisco. Each Park features more than one million LED animated lights and boasts the world’s largest synchronized LED light tunnel. Opens November 1st, 2024. Shows start at 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (weekdays), and 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (weekends and Christmas week); visitors can enjoy a safe and unique experience as they drive through the one-mile holiday light show curated to seasonal music.

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The Light Park has announced the opening of its dazzling holiday light displays at six Texas locations—Round Rock, Arlington, Frisco, Katy, Selma, and Spring—starting on November 1, 2024. “By opening a bit earlier in the season and adding a sixth location, we’re giving our guests more opportunities to join in the holiday spirit with us! Throughout the season, we see carloads of people returning because the experience is so visually captivating and full of energy,” says Matt Johnson, Co-Creator of The Light Park. “Our best advice to visitors is to plan early and get ready to be amazed by the brilliance of millions of spectacular lights in our drive-thru holiday park. While the lights go up, the prices stay down with early-bird pricing on pre-purchased tickets.”

Back by popular demand with the addition of their new Central Texas location in Round Rock, just North of Austin, The Light Park is an immersive, mile-long, drive-thru spectacular. It has been heralded as “one of the coolest ways to brighten your holiday season”, where guests witness millions of lights synchronized to an electric mix of music powered by DJ Polar Ice from the North Pole’s #1 Hit Radio station, K-GLO.

"We take great joy in seeing guests of all ages create lasting memories. Our team invites everyone to safely load up their cars, as our entrance fee is per vehicle, not per person. This way, everyone—including pets—can enjoy the magic of driving through the world's longest holiday light tunnel, grooving to the best tunes, and capturing Instagram-worthy moments, all for one admission price," says Johnson. "So, pack your cars, grab some treats (or buy some along the way), and enjoy the ride. Remember, tickets must be purchased online in advance with a reserved show time."

Those interested in learning more or purchasing admission can visit www.thelightpark.com. Cost starts at $29 per vehicle* for pre-purchased tickets, and admission varies per showtime (weekdays and weekends). Visitors must stay in their vehicles the entire time while visiting the park and while on the park property. Guests are encouraged to bring their snacks to enjoy while in their cars, but there are wonderful ways to upgrade your experience with pre-purchased snacks and fun souvenirs to enhance the experience of The Light Park.  

*Please note no vehicles over 30 feet will be allowed in the park; this includes limousines, trailers and buses.

 

Opens on November 1, 2024

Mondays - Thursdays: 5:30 - 10:00pm

Fridays - Sundays: 5:30 - 11:00pm

 

CHRISTMAS WEEK HOURS

Dec 18-25: 5:30-11pm

 

Where:

Frisco (runs through 1/5/25)

Riders Field

7300 Rough Riders Trail

Frisco, TX 75034

 

Arlington (runs through 1/5/25)

Hurricane Harbor Arlington

1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006

 

Katy (runs through 1/5/25)

Typhoon Texas Waterpark Parking Lot

555 Katy Fort Bend Rd

Katy, TX 77494

 

Round Rock (runs through 1/5/25)

Dell Diamond

Parking Lot

3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665

 

San Antonio (runs through 1/1/25)

Retama Park Parking Lot

1 Retama Pkwy

Selma, TX 78154

 

Spring (runs through 1/1/25)

Hurricane Harbor Parking Lot

21300 Interstate 45 N

Spring, TX 77373

 

Prices: $29-$125

 

To Purchase Online: https://www.thelightpark.com/

 

About The Light Park

The Light Park offers six parks in Texas: Round Rock, Spring, Katy, Selma, Arlington and Frisco. Each Park features more than one million LED animated lights and boasts the world’s largest synchronized LED light tunnel. Opens November 1st, 2024. Shows start at 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (weekdays), and 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (weekends and Christmas week); visitors can enjoy a safe and unique experience as they drive through the one-mile holiday light show curated to seasonal music.

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As part of a season-long program, ¡Yo Quiero! has teamed up with Dave Campbell’s Texas Football to honor some of Texas high school football’s brightest figures — team moms! On September 20th , ¡Yo Quiero!  recognized Andi Gowins Team mom from Keller Timber Creek High School with a Team Mom Appreciation Award for going above and beyond to support her son’s team, the Falcons throughout the season.  

“We are consistently impressed by the collective dedication required to keep those iconic Friday Night Lights shining week after week here in Texas,” said Jay Alley, Co-Owner and Vice President of ¡Yo Quiero!. “This is largely thanks to the unwavering support from friends, families, coaches, and, especially, Team Moms.”

This season, eleven Team Moms who have made a positive impact on their communities will be selected to receive an award and a $500 donation to their school. Keller Timber Creek High School, along with the other ten honorees, will be eligible for the Ultimate Team Mom of the Year Award, with voting taking place on texasfootball.com at the end of the season.

Tara Murray, VP of Marketing for ¡Yo Quiero!, noted that “Texans should keep an eye out for ¡Yo Quiero! and the Dave Campbell’s Texas Football crew at games across the state as they recognize these deserving individuals during the 2024 Texas high school football season, all while satisfying the crowd’s craving for everyone’s favorite Texas-made dips!”

Based in Rhome, Texas, ¡Yo Quiero! is a trailblazing, family-focused dip company that’s revolutionizing the Guacamole, Salsa, and Queso category nationwide by offering flavorful, “Better for You” dips made with quality ingredients. “At the core, we’re making it easier for football fans and families to enjoy their favorite foods together in a healthier way, whether they’re celebrating the game at home or in the stands,” said Murray.

ABOUT Dave Campbell Texas Football

For over 65 years, the iconic Dave Campbell’s Texas Football media brand has been “the bible” for millions of football fans across Texas. Its annual summer edition is essential reading for rabid football fans, previewing every high school and college team in the state. Known for its comprehensive coverage, TexasFootball.com offers extensive digital content, including team and recruit rankings, scores, exclusive interviews, podcasts, and daily shows. Additionally, TexanLive.com streams over 1,500 live sporting events each year, bringing fans closer to the action.

About ¡Yo Quiero!

¡Yo Quiero! Brands is a Texas-based avocado, guacamole, and dip company with state-of-the-art facilities in Rhome, Texas and Guanajuato, Mexico. With a mission of selecting and growing the freshest and finest ingredients, ¡Yo Quiero! creates delicious, hand-crafted products that can be found in most local retailers. Bringing years of experience and dip expertise to the category, ¡Yo Quiero! leads and innovates with integrity and passion. The current lineup of premium handcrafted dips can be viewed on our website. For additional information, recipes, or product availability, please visit www.yoquierobrands.com

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New Friends New Life Annual Luncheon Matthew and Camila McConaughey, Meredith Land

Nonprofit raises $1.1M at extraordinary luncheon deepening the awareness of human trafficking, recognizing supporters and programs, sharing voices of survivors, and honoring ProtectHER Awardees

Over 1,200 guests joined New Friends New Life (NFNL) on Sept. 20 at the OMNI Dallas Hotel for a memorable luncheon, raising $1.1 million to benefit the nonprofit’s mission to restore and empower trafficked and sexually exploited teen girls, women and their children, and to drive awareness of this issue and its prevalence.  The luncheon featured a conversation with power couple Camila and Matthew McConaughey, whose conversation moderated by NBC 5’s Meredith Land, ranged from their love of Texas to the work of their just keep livin Foundation, support of Uvalde, their New York Times bestselling books, and passion for University of Texas Longhorn football. Prior to leaving the stage, the couple offered a surprise $100,000 fundraising match, which they led auction-style, resulting in a fast and furious audience match of $100,000. 

“Camila and Matthew McConaughey exceeded our highest hopes as keynote speakers through their humility, passion, and kindness,” said Bianca Davis, CEO, NFNL. “We could not be more grateful for their support and for their unscripted call to action! In that one surreal moment, The McConaugheys reminded us that when we show up for survivors, our community shows up for us.”

The luncheon kicked off to the music of Sapphire Strings and greetings from luncheon Co-Chairs JoJo Fleiss and Lisa Rocchio, who recognized luncheon Honorary Co-Chairs Robin and Norm Bagwell for their longtime commitment to the work of NFNL. Rocchio shared that while attending the 2023 NFNL Luncheon, she was shocked to hear the statistics of sex trafficking in Dallas and brought her neighbor Fleiss on a  NFNL bus tour led by the Men’s Advocacy Group, demonstrating the prevalence of sex trafficking in this community. Both immediately knew they wanted to become more involved.

Pastor Bryan Carter, Concord Church, led the opening prayer, followed by recognition of this year’s ProtectHER Award recipients: Southwest Airlines and Young Men’s Service League (YMSL), shining examples of organizations that support the protection and value of women and girls in the community. NFNL Chief Development Officer Priya Murphy introduced a video about this year’s recipients, sponsored by Thomson Reuters. Accepting the awards were YMSL President, CEO and Founder Pam Rosener and Managing Director of Corporate Responsibility for Southwest Airlines Laura Nieto.

A video about the Liberty Street Garden, a partnership of NFNL, the Meadows Foundation, and Bonton Farms, highlighted an important next step in the journey of restoring and empowering survivors. The garden not only provides income but also work experience in a healing environment, helping to prepare those served by NFNL for future employment.

Following a series of audio testimonials from survivors, NFNL CEO Bianca Davis highlighted the prevalent sense of hope, healing, growth, and gratitude throughout the nonprofit’s hallways, coupled with the knowledge that members, and the staff that serves them, are dealing with significant trauma. She then shifted to the main takeaways of her address.

“I want you to walk away from today knowing two things,” continued Davis. “First, human trafficking is big business. By using force, fraud and coercion, traffickers are profiting $350 billion globally selling human beings for sex or labor, leaving an estimated 50 million victims in their wake. Texas ranks second in the nation for the highest number of human trafficking victims, and here in North Texas, sex trafficking is a $99 million industry. Women and girls are the prime target, and the average age of a girl sold in the sex trade is 15. Secondly, those who fall victim are not trapped in this illegal industry by choice. No one signs up for the physical abuse, sexual assault, emotional trauma, financial bondage, shame, criminal record or lack of access to education or gainful employment. NFNL is working to strengthen the most vulnerable by removing barriers to education and economic opportunities. In addition to our Liberty Street Garden, we have an onsite legal advocacy clinic and recently opened an onsite learning academy where women are being prepared to pass their GED exams,” which generated a supportive round of applause.

Davis encouraged the audience to join the fight and thanked all for taking a Stand for Her. To the audience’s delight she then led her introduction of the McConaugheys with, “Alright, Alright, Alright!”

Meredith Land kicked off the conversation summarizing all the places the duo had been spotted lately and welcoming them to Dallas. She asked about their move to Texas, which was a decision they agreed was not hard and decided while sitting at a red light. Growing up in Brazil in a family of farmers and ranchers, Camila said the values in Texas were much the same, including saying, “Yes, ma’am” and “No, sir,” and Matthew still has family in the state.

Regarding their just keep livin Foundation, Matthew highlighted the foundation’s after-school curriculum, which helps students meet physical goals, nutritional goals, and includes community service – something Matthew didn’t think would be popular, but “that’s what gives them ownership – where they are not just receiving.” Moving on to his New York Times bestseller Greenlights,Matthew shared how “it’s inevitable that you are going to get red lights in your life – something that stops us in our tracks. Sometimes you need to be stopped.  It’s like an intervention. The idea of the book is that all red lights do eventually turn green.  Yellow lights give us a choice – do we slow down or go fast? Sometimes we look for drama where it doesn’t exist.”

Meredith then asked Camila about her background and her New York Times bestseller, Just Try One Bite. Camila shared how every mother can likely relate. She grew up in Brazil in a family of farmers, where her relationship with food started. She watched her grandmother making butter and the family cooking over a wood fire. “In the journey of my life I was forced to go back to my roots … what we cook and eat and how it’s all connected.” She shared how it’s important for a child to see how something grows and what it takes to get food from farm to table, a process that fosters a sense of gratitude. “The sooner people learn and understand, the sooner they take ownership of their own lives and health.”

Camila then discussed, Women of Today, a community-based website she formed to give women a chance to share with each other and learn from each other. Matthew then asked her to share what she said about women in Texas. “Women in Texas show up, and their word is very important. 

The conversation shifted to the tragedy in Uvalde, Matthew’s hometown. He recounted the moment they decided they would go – they would show up and listen. They spent a few days visiting with families and decided to bring their children down. Their purpose was to help however needed. “Families trusted us, bringing us into intimate moments.” This led them to D.C. where the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act was signed, and then to the creation of the McConaugheys’ Greenlight Grants Initiative to help school districts nationwide access the billions of dollars of available federal funding to create safer school environments and ensure the well-being of children.

Regarding the event’s cause, Meredith highlighted the PSA Matthew participated in with the Texas attorney general about human trafficking, asking both to comment. Camila shared growing up in Brazil, she was made very aware of the potential danger. “When I moved here at 15, I thought I didn’t have to look over my shoulder, but now I’m having this conversation with my kids. Something really has to be done.”  Matthew added, “We have to realize that everyone needs to look out for one another with a keen eye before we can depend on law enforcement. It’s right here in our backyard. It’s an ugly scar.”

Closing with Matthew’s passion for UT football…  “We’re doing really well! I believe this team is still playing against how great they can be, and if they keep doing that, they are going to maintain the edge.”

Before leaving the stage, Matthew turned to Camila to share an idea that she had when they heard NFNL was $140,000 short of their goal. She asked if anyone “would like to match Matt and I up to $100,000.” The ballroom lights came on, and guests responded to the McConaugheys’ challenge with donations large and small to meet the goal and help further the life-changing work of NFNL.

Luncheon attendees included Anita Arnold, Kathy Crow, Linda Custard, Jennifer Gates, Michelle Grimes, Nancy Ann Hunt, Tonya and Charlie McKinney, Peter M. Miller, Ashlee and Chris Kleinert, Christa Sanford, Kit Sawers, Gail and Dr. Gerald Turner, Jessica Turner-Waugh, Stephanie Wilcox, Vickie Yakunin, Council Member Gay Donnell Willis and Commissioner Elba Garcia.

Media sponsors were NBC 5 and Telemundo 39 and PaperCity magazine.

# # # 

About New Friends New Life: Founded in Dallas, Texas, in 1998, New Friends New Life (NFNL) restores and empowers trafficked and sexually exploited teen girls, women and their children, and drives awareness of the issue and its prevalence. The agency’s vision is to create a community where women and girls can soar above the limits of their past and achieve their dreams. In 2023, NFNL served 328 members (clients). NFNL also educates the community and works to eradicate the epidemic of sex trafficking through advocacy, legislative reform and strategic partnerships that address systemic causes. In 2018, NFNL opened a drop-in Youth Resource Center (YRC) in partnership with the Office of the Governor to serve trafficked and high-risk teen girls. Since its opening, the YRC has served more than 550 girls. In 2015, NFNL organized its  Men's Advocacy Group to engage men in the fight against sex trafficking and exploitation. In 2024, D CEO Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards honored NFNL as “Organization of the Year” (midsize category). For more information, visit www.newfriendsnewlife.org.

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Beginning October 2nd, Puttshack in Addison will unveil a new Happy Hour Menu, featuring exclusive food and drink items. This limited-time menu will be available Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. local time, allowing guests to order from anywhere within the venue.

EAT UP: Delicious Bites for Just $6

 Guests can indulge in a selection of mouthwatering appetizers, each priced at only $6:

  • Southwest Chicken Quesadillas - Fire-braised chicken, roasted corn, black beans, Chihuahua cheese, and flour tortillas served with a sour cream dip.
  • Onion Dip -  A house-made onion dip paired with a medley of house chips. 
  • Loaded Tots Tater - tots smothered in jalapeño and poblano cheese sauce, topped with pecanwood bacon and buttermilk ranch.
  • Nashville Hot Bao Buns - Steamed Asian buns filled with cayenne-marinated house fried chicken, chipotle aioli, and rainbow slaw.

 

DRINK UP: Refreshing Beverages for $6

To complement the bites, guests can choose from a selection of drinks, also priced at $6:

  • Beer & Beyond Options include 16oz draft beers, High Noon cans, and Gin & Juice cans.
  • Wine Guests can savor The Wines of Francis Coppola, featuring both Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

 

TEE UP: Special Mini Golf Offer

In addition to the Happy Hour menu, Puttshack will offer a special weekday promotion. From Monday through Thursday, guests can enjoy 50% off their second game of mini golf all day long. To claim this offer, purchase one game and use the promo code “FREEFORFALL” at checkout. Puttshack is a mini golf course where cutting-edge technology meets classic gameplay. The interactive courses are packed with innovative challenges, exciting obstacles, and captivating themes that make every round unique. Everyone is invited to take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy great food, refreshing drinks, and fun mini golf at Puttshack in Addison.

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Through October 25, eligible organizations are invited to apply at ParkPlaceCares.com. Recipients will be announced the week of November 18, 2024.

For the fourth consecutive year, Park Place Dealerships is giving away a total of $100,000 in grants through its SEASON OF GIVING campaign to non-profits making a positive impact in the greater Dallas-Fort Worth community. Beginning today through October 25, eligible organizations are invited to apply at ParkPlaceCares.com. Recipients will be announced the week of November 18, 2024. 

“Through the SEASON OF GIVING, we provide grants to local organizations that align with our four pillars of giving,” said Tony Carimi, Managing Director of Park Place Dealerships. “SEASON OF GIVING goes beyond providing critical funds. Our Members at Park Place are deeply involved, volunteering their time and talents year-round. It’s incredible to witness the ripple effect of their dedication, as our team’s creativity and passion help make an even larger impact across our community.”   

Non-profit organizations applying must fit the following criteria:

  • Organization must be a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
  • The charity must support one of Park Place Cares’ Pillars of Giving, which include: Education; Medical Research; Children’s Advocacy; or the Arts.
  • The charity must serve in at least one of the following counties: Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, Denton, Ellis, Rockwall, Kaufman, Hunt, Wise or Johnson.
  • The charity cannot already have received donations or in-kind support from Park Place in 2024.
  • Charities must apply by October 25, 2024. 

Under Park Place Dealerships’ philanthropic arm of Park Place Cares, SEASON OF GIVING offers local non-profits the opportunity to apply for a one-time, end of year grant. Since 2021, Park Place Dealerships has awarded a total of $300,000 to 65 charities across North Texas that are making a real difference in our communities. 

“There are countless charities in our community who are doing incredible work, yet lack the necessary resources to make a bigger impact,” said Kara Connor, Park Place Dealership’s Experiential Marketing Manager. “Through SEASON OF GIVING, we have discovered nonprofits of all sizes making a meaningful difference in North Texas. We want non-profits to know we see you and will continue to do what we can to amplify your incredible work.” 

Eighteen North Texas non-profits received a 2023 Season of Giving grant from Park Place Dealerships out of more than 400 applications. One of the non-profits included the Apollo Support & Rescue in Justin, Texas. When the Park Place Lexus Grapevine general manager Charles Owen and Members of his team arrived at the no-kill animal shelter last year to present a grant, they encountered Zeke, a five-year old Bernese Mountain dog. The owner had just arrived to surrender the sweet dog. Charles ended up adopting Zeke, and Apollo received their grant! 

For the fourth consecutive year, Park Place Dealerships is giving away a total of $100,000 in grants through its SEASON OF GIVING campaign to non-profits making a positive impact in the greater Dallas-Fort Worth community. Beginning today through October 25, eligible organizations are invited to apply at ParkPlaceCares.com. Recipients will be announced the week of November 18, 2024. 

“Through the SEASON OF GIVING, we provide grants to local organizations that align with our four pillars of giving,” said Tony Carimi, Managing Director of Park Place Dealerships. “SEASON OF GIVING goes beyond providing critical funds. Our Members at Park Place are deeply involved, volunteering their time and talents year-round. It’s incredible to witness the ripple effect of their dedication, as our team’s creativity and passion help make an even larger impact across our community.”    

Non-profit organizations applying must fit the following criteria:

  • Organization must be a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
  • The charity must support one of Park Place Cares’ Pillars of Giving, which include: Education; Medical Research; Children’s Advocacy; or the Arts.
  • The charity must serve in at least one of the following counties: Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, Denton, Ellis, Rockwall, Kaufman, Hunt, Wise or Johnson.
  • The charity cannot already have received donations or in-kind support from Park Place in 2024.
  • Charities must apply by October 25, 2024. 

Under Park Place Dealerships’ philanthropic arm of Park Place Cares, SEASON OF GIVING offers local non-profits the opportunity to apply for a one-time, end of year grant. Since 2021, Park Place Dealerships has awarded a total of $300,000 to 65 charities across North Texas that are making a real difference in our communities. 

“There are countless charities in our community who are doing incredible work, yet lack the necessary resources to make a bigger impact,” said Kara Connor, Park Place Dealership’s Experiential Marketing Manager. “Through SEASON OF GIVING, we have discovered nonprofits of all sizes making a meaningful difference in North Texas. We want non-profits to know we see you and will continue to do what we can to amplify your incredible work.” 

Eighteen North Texas non-profits received a 2023 Season of Giving grant from Park Place Dealerships out of more than 400 applications. One of the non-profits included the Apollo Support & Rescue in Justin, Texas. When the Park Place Lexus Grapevine general manager Charles Owen and Members of his team arrived at the no-kill animal shelter last year to present a grant, they encountered Zeke, a five-year old Bernese Mountain dog. The owner had just arrived to surrender the sweet dog. Charles ended up adopting Zeke, and Apollo received their grant! 

Park Place goes above and beyond with the Season of Giving grant recipients by looking for additional opportunities to support the non-profits with Members volunteering throughout the year. The Airborne Angel Cadets of Texas sends care packages to U.S. military troops serving abroad. Park Place provided a 2023 grant to support their mission and in early 2024 Park Place Members spent the day packing basic toiletries, socks, snacks, candy, and letters for American soldiers. 

“We have built strong relationships with many incredible non-profits that continue to make an impact on the world,” said Connor. “We are really excited to meet this year’s SEASON OF GIVING recipients and explore how we can collaborate to help them achieve their goals moving forward.”

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and has been engaged in the community through its support of the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education. Park Place employs more than 1,400 members and operates eight full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Acura, and Land Rover. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth and Dallas, and the Park Place Auto Auction, round out the company’s offerings. Park Place was acquired in 2020 by Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Duluth, GA. For more information, visit parkplace.com