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SHELTON ALUMNUS COLIN FEEHERY QUALIFIED FOR FOUR EVENTS IN THE 2024 U.S. OLYMPIC SWIMMING TRIALS 

Colin Feehery (Shelton Class of 2019), who graduated from SMU in May 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physiology and Sport Management, is a member of SMU’s swim team and qualified for four events in  the 2024 U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials, which begin on Saturday, June 15-23 in Indianapolis. Colin qualified for the 100 and 200 breaststroke, the 200 freestyle and the 200 individual medley. 

What are your swimming accomplishments? 

While swimming at SMU,  I held four individual team records, competed in the 2021 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, the 2022, 2023 and 2024 NCAA championships, and competed in the finals in multiple events at the U.S. National Championships.  I already qualified and am looking forward to the Olympic Trials.

What will you be doing after graduation from SMU?

I’ll be working for the Jesuit Athletic Department and as an assistant swim coach coming up soon.

What’s your learning difference?

I have ADD inattentive type, Dysgraphia and Expressive Language Disorder.

How did Shelton prepare you for college?

Shelton prepared me for SMU by helping me think about different ways I could succeed. With learning differences, sometimes different adjustments have to be made to accomplish a goal.

What advice do you have for Shelton students?

Always remember that anything is possible. Before attending Shelton and SMU, I had no idea what I was capable of both in school and in athletics. Learn as much as you can about yourself and be willing to advocate for your own needs. Understanding both your strengths and weaknesses and being able to ask for help will unlock a potential you never knew you had.

What are your memories of Shelton?

The biggest thing I loved about Shelton was the class sizes. Teachers could always care about the individual person and have the time to help when asked. It was also fun to be able to get to know all of my graduating class and a lot of people from the classes above and below me. I enjoyed SMU for a lot of the same reasons. I could get to know a lot of people within my major and take a lot of the same classes with the same people. Teachers and advisors were also able to spend more time with the individual students and offer help as needed.

What’s a fun fact about you?

I enjoy studying history.  I also enjoy reading books about world history.

COLIN FEEHERY’S SMU School Swimming Records

200 breast I 1:52.06 I 2/3/23

400 free relay | 2:50.39 | 3/30/24

800 free relay | 6:14.35 | 3/27/2024

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Photo (Left to right): Dr. Theresa Williams; Superintendent Plano ISD, Bryan Martin; Lexus Plano Service Manager, Meghann Sciples; Elementary Teacher of the Year, Mitch Stobee; Secondary Teacher of the Year, Gabe Delgado; Lexus Plano Pre-owned Sales Manager, Nancy Humphrey; PISD Board of Trustees President 2021-2025

Park Place Lexus Plano recognized Plano Independent School District Teachers of the Year, Meghann Sciples and Mitch Stobee. Sciples was named Elementary Teacher of the Year and Stobee was recognized as Secondary Teacher of the Year for PISD.

The two Plano ISD teachers were offered their choice to drive a Lexus IS or NX for the 2024 summer, deluxe detail and tank of gas for the winner’s vehicle, two tickets to a Texas Rangers game with a parking pass and access to the Lexus Lounge that includes an “all you can eat” buffet and drinks of choice. The teachers also received four passes to the Dallas Arboretum, and other Park Place swag.

“We celebrate the teachers who commit their time, energy and resources to building the next generation of leaders,” said Chris Brunner, Park Place Lexus Plano General Manager. “We recognize the long hours our teachers work in their selfless drive to educate our children. Park Place Lexus has supported the Teachers of the Year program in Plano ISD for many years, and we applaud all the teachers for their passion and dedication to educate.” 

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 nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth, Dallas, and Plano 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

 

 

 

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Are you moving with kids? With the right strategies in place, you can minimize disruption and stress for both you and your children.

Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet challenging experience, especially when you have kids. The thought of uprooting your family and starting fresh in a new place can bring about a mix of emotions. However, with the right strategies in place, you can minimize disruption and stress for both you and your children. In this article, we will explore some effective tips to help you navigate the process of moving with kids.

1. Communicate and Involve Your Kids

One of the most important steps in minimizing disruption during a move is to communicate with your kids. Explain to them why you are moving and involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible. This will help them feel included and more prepared for the upcoming changes.

2. Plan Ahead

Planning is key when it comes to moving with kids. Create a detailed moving checklist and timeline to ensure that everything is organized and on track. Start packing well in advance, allowing your children to gradually adjust to the idea of moving. This will also give you ample time to sort through belongings and declutter, making the moving process smoother.

3. Maintain Routines

Children thrive on routine, so try to maintain their regular schedules as much as possible during the moving process. Stick to their usual meal times, bedtime routines, and extracurricular activities. This will provide them with a sense of stability and help minimize any anxiety or stress they may be feeling.

4. Pack an Essentials Box

Pack a separate essentials box for each child, containing their favorite toys, books, and comfort items. This will ensure that they have familiar things to keep them occupied and provide a sense of comfort during the transition. Additionally, include some snacks, toiletries, and a change of clothes to have readily available upon arrival at your new home.

5. Explore the New Neighborhood

Before the move, take the time to explore your new neighborhood with your kids. Visit local parks, schools, and recreational areas to help them become familiar with their new surroundings. This will help alleviate any anxiety they may have about the unknown and make them feel more at ease in their new environment.

6. Enlist Help

Moving with kids can be overwhelming, so don't hesitate to ask for help. Whether it's from family, friends, or professional movers, having an extra set of hands can make a significant difference. Delegate tasks and responsibilities to lighten the load and ensure a smoother transition for everyone involved.

7. Stay Positive and Patient

Lastly, remember to stay positive and patient throughout the moving process. Children are perceptive and can pick up on your emotions. By maintaining a positive attitude and demonstrating patience, you can help ease their worries and make the experience more enjoyable for the whole family.

Moving with kids doesn't have to be a stressful ordeal. By implementing these strategies, you can minimize disruption and create a smoother transition for your family. Remember, open communication, careful planning, and maintaining routines are key to ensuring a successful move. Embrace this new chapter in your lives and make it an exciting adventure for your children.

Premier Designs & Moving specializes in moving services, art installation, and packing and organization. For the past 5 years, Premier Designs & Moving have been securing your valuables and moving them with ease, handling your objects with care, and packing and unpacking your assets so you can focus on the more important aspects of moving. All our packing services are designed to make your move efficient and streamlined. We’re not just any residential moving service, we pride ourselves on providing you with the service you expect from our name. For the best home movers in Dallas, TX, call Premier Designs & Moving at (469) 859-5454.

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Did you know that your shingle choice matters? The type of shingles you choose can greatly impact the overall look, durability, and energy efficiency of your roof.

When it comes to choosing the right shingles for your house, there are several factors to consider. The type of shingles you choose can greatly impact the overall look, durability, and energy efficiency of your roof. In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect shingles for your home.

1. Consider the Climate

The climate in your area plays a significant role in determining the type of shingles that will work best for your house. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Asphalt Shingles: These are the most common type of shingles and are suitable for a wide range of climates. They are affordable, durable, and come in a variety of colors and styles.

  • Wood Shingles: Wood shingles offer a natural and rustic look to your roof. They are best suited for moderate climates and require regular maintenance to prevent rot and decay.

  • Metal Shingles: Metal shingles are highly durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. They are a great option for areas prone to heavy rain, strong winds, or hailstorms.

  • Slate Shingles: Slate shingles are known for their elegance and longevity. They are fire-resistant, low-maintenance, and can last for over a century. However, they are more expensive than other types of shingles.

  • Tile Shingles: Tile shingles, often made of clay or concrete, are popular in warmer climates. They provide excellent insulation and can withstand high temperatures. However, they are heavy and may require additional structural support.

2. Evaluate the Aesthetic Appeal

Shingles come in a variety of styles, colors, and textures, allowing you to customize the look of your roof. Consider the architectural style of your house and choose shingles that complement its design. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Three-Tab Shingles: These are the most basic and economical option. They have a flat, uniform appearance and are available in a range of colors.

  • Architectural Shingles: Also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, these offer a more textured and layered look. They mimic the appearance of wood or slate shingles and provide added depth and visual interest.

  • Designer Shingles: Designer shingles are premium shingles that offer unique patterns, colors, and shapes. They can give your roof a distinctive and high-end look.

3. Assess the Durability

Durability is a crucial factor when selecting shingles for your house. You want shingles that can withstand the test of time and protect your home from the elements. Here are a few considerations:

  • Impact Resistance: Some shingles are designed to be impact-resistant, making them less likely to crack or break during hailstorms or falling debris.

  • Wind Resistance: Look for shingles that are rated for high wind speeds. These shingles have enhanced adhesion and are less likely to be blown off during storms.

  • Fire Resistance: If you live in an area prone to wildfires, consider shingles that are rated for fire resistance. These shingles are made from materials that are less likely to catch fire.

4. Think About Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important for homeowners. By choosing energy-efficient shingles, you can reduce your carbon footprint and save on energy costs. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Cool Shingles: Cool shingles are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, keeping your home cooler in the summer. They can help reduce the strain on your air conditioning system.

  • Solar Shingles: Solar shingles are a sustainable option that harness the power of the sun to generate electricity for your home. They can help offset your energy consumption and lower your utility bills.

5. Consult with a Professional

Choosing the right shingles for your house can be a complex task. It is always a good idea to consult with a professional roofing contractor who can provide expert advice based on your specific needs and budget. They can help you navigate through the various options available and ensure that you make an informed decision.

Selecting the right shingles for your house is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Consider the climate, aesthetic appeal, durability, energy efficiency, and seek professional guidance. By doing so, you can ensure that your roof not only looks great but also provides the protection and longevity your home deserves.

Tucker Roofing Systems is a leading provider of high-quality roofing solutions dedicated to excellence in craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. With over 60 years of experience, we specialize in installations, repairs, and replacements, serving both residential and commercial clients. Contact us at (972) 833-2271 to schedule a consultation.

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Dallas, TX—June 10, 2024 — Dallas United Crew (DUC) proudly brought 44 athletes to the 2024 USRowing Youth National Championship, showcasing their hard work, dedication, and exceptional talent on a national stage. All athletes qualified for this championship from our regional qualifier in early May.

The team secured a notable 5th place finish in the Women's 4- event, featuring a stellar performance by Olivia Till (Alabama '28), Elle Noonan, Estelle Stout (Wisconsin '28), and Paisley Rodriguez (University of Texas '28). 

 

"We gave it our all, and to come away with a top 5 finish is a testament to the hard work and dedication of every member of Dallas United Crew, we can all share in each others success, It furthers the legacy that we are building here at Dallas United Crew" said Coach Ben Andrews.

Olivia Till, a member of the Women's 4- team, shared her excitement, "Rowing with these girls has been an incredible experience. We pushed each other every day, and it paid off at Nationals."

Elle Noonan echoed these sentiments, adding, "The support from our coaches, families, and the entire Dallas United community has been phenomenal. We couldn't have achieved this without them."

DUC was represented by the following eight crews:

Women's U17 8+: 10th
1. Yaya Lagisetty 2. Lauren Livingston 3. Hedda Beck 4.London Ezell 5. Olivia Betancourt 6. Thalia Makris 7. Julia Blewett 8. Diana Farnworth cox: Mimi Tafel

Women's Youth 4+: 24th
1. Kenna Rosenthal 2. Lisette Viguerie 3. Lauren O'Grady 4. Victoria Bell cox: Maya Malik

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Women's Youth 4-: 5th
1. Olivia Till, 2. Elle Noonan, 3. Estelle Stout, 4. Paisley Rodriguez

Women's Youth 2- A: 18th

1. Cordelia Bowden, 2. Ella Spillman

Women's Youth 2- B: 24th

1. Hannah Birdwell, 2. Samantha Rietbroek

Men's Youth 8+: 24th

1.Matthew Slear 2. Andrew Moyer 3. Daniel Sneed 4. Cole Farley 5. Jack Davis 6. John Bunge 7. Raul Gupta 8. Jack Halverson Cox: Ryan Brown

Men's Youth 2nd 8+: 14th

1.Coleman Hayes 2. Alex Musico 3. Josh Lando 4. Elijah Townsend 5. Colin Salm 6. Owen Frazer 7. Luke Blankenship 8. Julian Belestri Cox: Pavi Paila

Men's Youth 4-: 30th
1.Nathan Wivagg 2. Theo Statiras 3. Jacob Ronk 4. Louis Hixon

Demonstrating Exceptional Teamwork and Sportsmanship

Throughout the championship, Dallas United Crew demonstrated not only their athletic prowess but also their exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship. Their camaraderie and mutual respect earned admiration from competitors and officials alike, solidifying DUC's reputation as a formidable club from the Central Region .

Coach Andrews emphasized the importance of teamwork in their success, "Rowing is a team sport, and these athletes understand that. They support each other on and off the water, and it showed in their performance, even if our team members are not out here with us they know their hard work has contributed to our speed on display."

The DUC teams also displayed exceptional sportsmanship, congratulating and cheering on their fellow competitors throughout the competition. This spirit of camaraderie was especially evident during the final races, where Dallas United Crew athletes could be seen high-fiving and hugging their teammates after crossing the finish line.

Want to Join the Team?

Looking ahead, Dallas United Crew has ambitious plans to build on their success. The team will continue rigorous training and development as they prepare for the upcoming Summer National Championship in Oklahoma City. In addition, they plan to expand their recruitment efforts to attract more local talent and grow the team further.

Dallas United Crew is offering 4 day Learn to Row Camps to try rowing out! No prior experience is necessary. Visit https://www.dallasunitedcrew.org/ for more information.

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Dallas Arboretum's Pride in Bloom Sabina Carr, Gary Sanchez

DALLAS, Texas, June 12, 2024 – The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden kicked off the third annual Pride in Bloom weekend-long event on June 8. The celebration, presented by Polestar Grapevine, highlighted local LGBTQ+ artisans, entertainers, chefs, and small businesses.

The festivities began Saturday morning with a welcome reception held in the DeGolyer House. Sabina Carr, Dallas Arboretum president and CEO, David Sassano, Pride in Bloom chair and Dallas Arboretum board member, Gary Sanchez, director of public affairs at VisitDallas, and Seth Levin, VP, marketing at Polestar Grapevine all shared remarks, welcoming everyone and thanking them for their support.

Throughout the day, events included cooking demonstrations, musical performances, and a curated vendor market featuring LGBTQ+ artisans. Polestar Grapevine, the presenting sponsor, also brought out an electric car guests could decorate and share what pride means to them. Pride in Bloom kicks off Summer at the Arboretum: Endless Summer featuring 150 hammocks for people to relax in at the Pecan Grove. 

A special thanks to the 2024 Pride in Bloom Sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor: Polestar Grapevine
Bronze:
Apogee Supply, LLC, Apex Fence and Iron, McDonald’s of North Texas
Friend: Carole Braden, The Vennerberg Boys, IRRI TECH, LLC, John C. Weber Real Estate Group, BDO, Priority Trees and Shrubs
Supporting: Cotton Mendenhall, Realtor, Ebby, North Texas LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Jim Pitts, The Nan Faith Arnold Company, SHM Architects, Land Systems, Inc., Tenet, David Sassano and Don Tapani, MoneyGram International
Patron: Leslie Garner & Chris LaBove, Classic Chassis Car Club, Fossil, Mesa Design Group, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
Media Sponsors: NBC 5/ Telemundo 39

Photos courtesy of Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

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Karl Chiao by Danny Campbell Photography_Dallas Hi Karl Chiao, Executive Director, Dallas Historical Society

Texas History Professional Development Conference

Monday, June 24th and Tuesday, June 25th 
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

 

Join the Dallas Historical Society for this free, two-day Professional Development Conference, presented in partnership with the Harry W. Bass Jr. Foundation.    Learn from leading Texas historians and exemplary classroom instructors. Improve your content knowledge and sharpen your teaching skills at the beautiful and historic Hall of State. Attendees will earn 12 CPE Credits.

Speakers Include: Dr. Stephen L. Hardin, The Runaway Scrape; Dr. Sam W. Haynes, Richard Fields & The Texas Cherokees; Kolby Lanham, Alamo Myths & Misconceptions; Robert Edison, African Americans in Texas History; David Lee & Kaitlyn Price, DHS History and Collection; Allison Yates, Texas History Lessons; Dr. Erika Arredondo-Haskins, Texas Women; Dr. Donald S. Frazier, E Pluribus Texas Project.

Free parking. To register, for scheduling, learn more online, see the flyer here: https://www.dallashistory.org/education/for-teachers/

If you have any questions, please email education@dallashistory.org  to contact the DHS Director of Education or call 214-421-4500.

 

The Dallas Historical Society: Whether someone is new to Dallas or a native Texan, the Dallas Historical Society offers programs and exhibits that educate and inform visitors about their home city and reveal insights and little-known facts that one might be unable to attain from history books alone, especially with the museum’s newest permanent exhibit, the interactive Texas Liberty Forever: The Battle of the Alamo diorama by Thomas Feely.

 

Ongoing events include Brown Bag Lectures, An Evening With programs, and Pour Yourself Into History happy hours. Join in discovering more about Dallas and take part in one or more of these wonderful programs. Visit the website for more information at www.dallashistory.org

 

The Dallas Historical Society Celebrated Its Centennial Year In 2022

 

The stories of Dallas are shared each day at the Dallas Historical Society through the three million items that comprise our archives and artifact collections. Established in 1922, the Dallas Historical Society collects, preserves, and exhibits the unique heritage of Dallas and Texas to educate and inspire future generations.

 

Housed at the Hall of State in Fair Park since 1938, DHS presents these collections through education programs, exhibitions, tours, access to research materials and workshops. 

 

Among the three million historical artifacts at DHS are such treasures as Sam Houston’s handwritten account of the Battle of San Jacinto, the only known original Juneteenth document, James Fannin’s watch, and Santa Anna’s spurs. The DHS collection houses over 10,000 bound volumes and receives more than 1,500 research requests annually.

 

Each year, the Dallas Historical Society is visited by over 160,000 people and serves more than 20,000 students through guided tours and educational programming at the Hall of State, as well as outreach programs at schools. Visit the website for more information at www.dallashistory.org

 

Photo by Danny Campbell. 

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Nexus Recovery Center announced a $50,000 grant from Wellpoint Foundation for its residential substance use disorder (SUD) treatment program. This generous gift will help Nexus continue to provide Pregnant & Parenting Women with Children (PPWC) clients with behavioral and mental health services, including one-on-one counseling, educational sessions, and group sessions. 

The grant will directly support Nexus’ mission to serve as a community of hope and recovery for all women and their families who strive to live healthy, resilient lives. Using an evidence-based, gender-specific, and trauma-informed continuum of care approach to treatment, Nexus’ PPWC program helps to bridge gender and racial equity gaps that limit access to needed behavioral and mental health services for women and families affected by substance use disorders, regardless of clients’ ability to pay.

Wellpoint helps improve health care access and quality for nearly 750,000 Texans who participate in the state’s Medicaid programs. Wellpoint Texas President, Greg Thompson, said supporting Nexus Recovery Center was a natural fit for the foundation. 

“We are proud to partner with Nexus Recovery Center because they, like Wellpoint, are taking an individualized approach to address multiple aspects of health and wellness for our most vulnerable populations,” Thompson said. “As one out of just seven treatment centers in Texas that allows women to admit with their children, Nexus is transforming the lives of families impacted by substance use disorders.”

Serving more than 200 pregnant and parenting women each year, the Pregnant & Parenting Women with Children program provides each client with an individualized and comprehensive treatment plan that includes a full range of parenting education classes, postpartum support, and family education sessions. Together with a team of licensed counselors, a child and family education specialist, a case manager, and recovery coaches, clients maintain a full schedule of activities designed to help them along their individualized pathways to recovery.

“While I worked with Nexus staff on reducing my cravings for alcohol, my son Zayden received play therapy at the Nexus Child Development Center,” says Mackenzie Blacketer, former PPWC client. “I received counseling for my past traumas as well as tools I could use to be a better mom to Zayden, strengthening our bond as mother and son.”

“Wellpoint Foundation’s support of Nexus will help us empower women like Mackenzie and preserve families throughout Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and across the state of Texas,” said Heather E. Ormand, Chief Executive Officer of Nexus Recovery Center. “We are thankful to have Wellpoint Foundation as a partner.”

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Draft Sports Bar and Lounge

Cheer on the Dallas Mavericks tonight at Draft Sport Bar & Lounge in Downtown Dallas within Sheraton Dallas Hotel.

Happy hour specials will be available during every Dallas Mavericks game this month at Draft Sports Bar & Lounge, which include $6 draught beer, seasonal sangria, Old Fashioned, house red and white wine, and house spirits. A new Game-Day Platter is on the menu available just for the Dallas Mavericks games, offering a few favorite appetizers. 

Draft Sports Bar & Lounge is located across the street from the DART train's Pearl Arts District station, and parking in Sheraton Dallas’ parking garage is complimentary when you dine at one of the hotel’s restaurants including Draft Sports Bar & Lounge, so guests can easily stop at the sports bar before or after attending the game at American Airlines Center. 

Draft Sports Bar & Lounge is the ultimate destination for craft beer on tap, innovative cocktails, tasty eats, a lively atmosphere, and 25 flat screen HDTVs, which is the most TVs for any sports bar in Downtown Dallas. 

Draft Sports Bar & Lounge, inside Sheraton Dallas Hotel, is a 4,000 square-foot world of sports nirvana. From the moment you walk in the door, you will be propelled into the ultimate entertainment experience and will be inspired to cheer the Mavs all the way to a victory!

Draft Sports Bar & Lounge features a private karaoke room with an Xbox gaming system. 

To reserve a table or the private Karaoke room at Draft Sports Bar & Lounge, call 469-371-1486. 

The Sheraton Dallas Hotel is the largest hotel in North Texas with 1,840 guest rooms, four dining outlets, rooftop pool, fitness center, 230,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, and much more. 

 

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In a celebration of philanthropic innovation and community impact, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of North Texas (SVdP) received the prestigious Texas Impact Enterprise Award at SMU last week. The honor centers upon the nonprofit’s charitable pharmacy (the first of its kind in Texas). St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) Pharmacy has filled the gap for many uninsured North Texans in need of prescription medication and has experienced rapid growth, and even more significantly this past year. 

The Pharmacy has filled almost 320,000 scripts, worth $87 million, since its inception. This caught the attention of those making the Texas Impact Enterprise Award selections.

SVdP works tirelessly to support its North Texas neighbors and create pathways out of poverty. The nonprofit’s unwavering commitment to serving those in need has not only transformed lives but also set a new standard for social entrepreneurship among the D-FW nonprofit landscape. The charitable pharmacy being a strong example of that. 

To find out more about Society of St. Vincent de Paul of North Texas, visit their website at https://svdpdallas.org/.