Staff & Reader Submitted
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

50th Anniversary Ad Campaign Celebrates Legacy and Future of North Texas’s Beloved Bar-B-Que Brand

North Texas’ beloved family-owned and operated meaty mainstay, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, is kicking off its 50th anniversary year by looking back on its generational legacy while embracing the future that the Royse City-based family operation has on the horizon.

In celebration of a year full of surprises, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que debuted a new commercial featuring the Hallett family, led by patriarch and Soulman’s founder, Don Hallett, reflecting on Soulman’s family legacy and looking to the future. Soulman’s partnered with Spectrum Reach and its in-house creative agency Kernel to create the ad campaign.

The commercial has aired across North Texas and has contributed to Soulman’s growth. Soulman’s saw a 13% year-over-year increase in sales in 2023 and has been featured on countless best-of lists in its five-decade-long tenure in North Texas’ oh-so-fickle culinary landscape.

 

LINK TO VIDEO - https://youtu.be/vtQPozpqpSA?si=ye9c4zUeecx3p0b3

 

“We understand what began as a passion has developed into a business journey that has supported thousands of team members throughout 50 years,” said Brett Randle, CEO of Soulman’s Bar-B-Que. “It’s wildly important that while we have realized growth, the true authenticity and quality of what we do, the food we prepare every day, is as down-home as it was in 1974, when Mr. Hallett got his hands on the same family recipes that we use today at our 19 North Texas Soulman’s Bar-B-Que locations.”

The television ad launched a year-long campaign for Soulman’s that will include throwback pricing, events, giveaways, and social media and influencer engagement.

“Soulman’s Bar-B-Que anniversary campaign was a unique opportunity to celebrate not just an iconic and beloved North Texas brand but a family’s legacy,” said Jeff Gregg, Regional Vice President, Sales for Spectrum Reach. “Don Hallett’s passion for Soulman’s is matched only by his passion for his family, and it’s been a privilege to weave this narrative into a compelling commercial that honors the past while looking to the next chapter in Soulman’s story.”

Concluded Randle, “Looking forward to 2024, we at Soulman’s Bar-B-Que anticipate additional restaurant openings in our home state of Texas, accelerated community involvement in each of the 20 communities we serve, continued operational excellence, and even more devotees to our brand and its meaty message.”

 

About Soulman’s Bar-B-Que

For 50 years, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has satisfied the hardest to please bar-b-que lovers….Texans!  Founded in Pleasant Grove, Texas in 1974, Soulman’s had only a few simple goals—serve great Texas-style BBQ and offer friendly, sincere service.  Soulman’s original family recipes are still the foundation for the company’s success from their 8 different types of meat that are smoked “low & slow” over only hickory wood to their famous homemade sides, including Ranch house beans and Texas style cream corn! Throughout the years, this family-owned and operated company has remained true to its original strive for success and customer satisfaction and is honored to be considered one of the Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2018), the Best Bar-B-Que in Dallas for Takeout  & Delivery (2020) and one of the Best Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2024).

Soulman’s currently owns and operates 20 North and East Texas locations in Allen, Cedar Hill, Forney, Fort Worth, Garland, Greenville, Hurst, Lancaster, Lewisville, Mansfield, Mesquite, Quinlan, Red Oak, Rockwall I-30, Rockwall Goliad, Royse City,  Sulphur Springs, Terrell and Van. To learn more about Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, visit them online at http://www.soulmans.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/soulmansbbq.

 

###

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

DALLAS, TX, May 1, 2024 — The Dallas County Master Gardener Association 2024 Garden Tour will be held on Saturday, May 18th from 10 am to 5 pm. in the White Rock Lake area of East Dallas. The Tour includes five private home gardens in a variety of sizes and styles, a public demonstration pollinator garden, as well as a new concept to the tour this year - two bonus “pass-by” gardens that are just too packed full of botanical wonders to leave out! Visitors are encouraged to take pictures at all of the gardens, and specific plant lists will be available for each location.

All eight gardens on the Tour are owned or managed by Master Gardeners who will be on hand to answer questions and provide insight as to how their garden came to be. Master Gardener docents will be stationed in the gardens to provide additional information and to point out garden highlights. Educational Programs will be conducted in all featured gardens, including:

  • propagation by seeds and cuttings

  • bees and other “winged things”

  • shade gardening

  • vegetable gardening

  • native plants for birds and how to incorporate them in your garden

  • container gardening

    The main focus of this year's Tour is on pollinator gardens, emphasizing the use of native and adapted plants and Earth-Kind® practices. Tour Chairman Elaine Webster says, “Guests can expect to see a variety of functional designs, including terraced backyards, water features, innovative use of alley space, and alluring havens for birds and other pollinators. It’s a great opportunity to incorporate ideas from the experts into your own yard!“

    Tickets, $18 prior to 6 pm May 17th and $22 thereafter, can be purchased online at https:// dallascountymastergardeners.org/garden-tour/. Tickets can also be purchased during the tour at any of the featured gardens.

    The Garden Tour is the major source of fundraising for the Dallas County Master Gardener Association (DCMGA), a non-profit organization dedicated to horticultural education and volunteer service throughout the county. The funds raised from the Garden Tour will be used for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Dallas County Master Gardener programs to provide learning opportunities to county residents, including community service projects, school gardens, research education and demonstration gardens.

    The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Dallas County Master Gardener program is one of the largest in the nation. In 2023, the economic value of the 43,350 volunteer hours provided by Dallas County Master Gardeners translated to $1,378,514 in benefits to the community. Additionally, over three tons of produce were donated to food insecure county residents.

    ###

page1image2188096page1image2189632page1image2190208

For more information on this and other events, please visit www.dallascountymastergardeners.org or their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ DallasCountyMasterGardeners/

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Men of Nehemiah CEO Jim Ramsey, EVP Community Outreach Melinda Russ, Founder Louis Harrell, Jr. with wife Denise Harrell.

Men of Nehemiah (MON), a South Dallas nonprofit working to rebuild the lives of men who have been torn apart by drug and alcohol addiction, presented its annual Gospel concert at Dallas Country Club featuring a 50-man choir comprised of men who are currently in recovery.

Addiction respects no zip code. While some of these men were living on the streets, others had successful careers and previously lived with their families in gated communities. Some had been incarcerated prior to coming to MON. 

Travis Blakeley, a Greenhill graduate, shared his story of addiction, which he said was an ugly affair with the bottle the last few years. Blakeley spoke candidly about his addiction and going to a California rehab center where he enjoyed tacos and surfing but didn’t deal with the issues that led to his addiction. 

Blakeley continued his downward spiral and eventually landed at Men of Nehemiah where he recently completed their nine-month residential program. Blakeley credits MON’s family program with helping him and his wife, Amanda navigate the challenges of addiction within the family.   

“I have been home for six weeks and while it has been full of challenges, Men of Nehemiah has given me another chance to be a husband and father my family can be proud of,” said Blakeley. “God has paved a new path for us.”

Paul Rasmussen, the senior minister at Highland Park United Methodist Church, was the guest speaker and gave a resounding testimony about his own family’s battle with addiction. Rasmussen told the packed ballroom about his father, who was a minister and an alcoholic. 

“When you grow up in insanity, you begin to normalize it,” said Rasmussen. “Living with an alcoholic is like living with the elephant in the room. You live with the elephant long enough and you begin to think the elephant belongs there.” 

Rasmussen believes Men of Nehemiah will change future generations of families and create opportunities for families to heal. 

The MON program helps men deal with addiction and has the goal of reuniting a spiritually and mentally healthy man with his family and community. MON’s approach integrates Biblical discipleship, clinical counseling, and military structure. More information is available at menofnehemiah.org.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Texas Bar Foundation

Family Compass, the only agency in North Texas solely dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect, is delighted to announce that the Texas Bar Foundation has awarded the organization a grant of $10,000 dedicated to Families First.

The Families First seminar is court-mandated to help divorced or separated parents and other caregivers understand the effects of their situation on their children. Parents learn to promote positive parenting and to successfully co-parent with longevity, for the emotional health of their children. Family Compass is licensed to provide this seminar by the national organization. Thanks to scholarship funding included in the generous Texas Bar Foundation grant, all participant fees are covered through the end of May 2025. Individuals in need of services may register free of charge at family-compass.org/families-first.

Since its inception in 1965, the Texas Bar Foundation has awarded more than $27 million in grants to law-related programs. Supported by members of the State Bar of Texas, the Texas Bar Foundation is the nation's largest charitably-funded bar foundation. For more information about the Texas Bar Foundation, visit txbf.org.

 

About Family Compass

Family Compass is a non-profit agency that believes that every child has the fundamental right to a healthy family and environment, the opportunity to succeed in school and the capacity to experience life without violence, abuse or neglect. The mission of Family Compass is to build healthy families and a strong North Texas community by preventing child abuse and neglect. This is accomplished through two home mentoring programs and community-based, educational programs for families that have elevated risk for child abuse. All programs are evidence-based, voluntary and free of charge. In 2023 alone, the agency kept 717 high-risk children out of the overburdened CPS system and safe in their homes, which according to the CDC costs $831,000 per case of child abuse and neglect to address, resulted in a $596-million-dollar savings for the community.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
When it comes to selecting a new roof, it's essential to choose the right material that suits your needs and preferences.

When it comes to improving the overall look and feel of your home, one often overlooked aspect is the roof. A new roof not only provides protection from the elements but can also completely transform the curb appeal of your property. In this article, we will explore the various ways in which a new roof can enhance the overall aesthetic of your home.

The Importance of Curb Appeal

Curb appeal plays a crucial role in creating a positive first impression of your home. Whether you're planning to sell your property or simply want to enjoy a beautiful exterior, enhancing the curb appeal should be a top priority. And what better way to achieve this than by investing in a new roof?

Transforming Your Home with a New Roof

  1. Enhanced Aesthetics: One of the most noticeable benefits of a new roof is the immediate improvement in the overall appearance of your home. With a wide range of roofing materials, colors, and styles available, you can choose a roof that complements the architectural style of your home and enhances its visual appeal. Whether you prefer the classic look of asphalt shingles or the modern appeal of metal roofing, there is a roofing option that will suit your taste.

  2. Increased Property Value: A new roof not only enhances the curb appeal but also adds value to your property. Potential buyers are more likely to be attracted to a home with a well-maintained and visually appealing roof. According to a study conducted by the National Association of Realtors, a new roof can recover an average of 109% of its installation cost when selling the property. So, if you're planning to sell your home in the future, a new roof can be a wise investment.

  3. Improved Energy Efficiency: Did you know that a new roof can also contribute to energy savings? By opting for energy-efficient roofing materials, you can reduce heat transfer and keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This not only improves comfort but also helps lower your energy bills. Materials such as metal roofing and cool roof coatings are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, making them excellent choices for energy-conscious homeowners.

  4. Enhanced Protection: A new roof provides better protection against leaks, water damage, and other weather-related issues. Over time, the integrity of your roof can deteriorate due to age, weather exposure, and wear and tear. By replacing your old roof with a new one, you can ensure that your home remains safe and secure, even during harsh weather conditions. Additionally, modern roofing materials are designed to withstand extreme weather events, such as high winds and heavy rain, providing you with peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Roofing Material

When it comes to selecting a new roof, it's essential to choose the right material that suits your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, and the overall aesthetic appeal. Some popular roofing materials include:

  • Asphalt Shingles: Affordable and versatile, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the United States. They come in a variety of colors and styles, making them suitable for various architectural designs.

  • Metal Roofing: Metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity. They can withstand extreme weather conditions and require minimal maintenance. Metal roofs are available in different styles, including standing seam, corrugated panels, and metal tiles.

  • Clay Tiles: Clay tiles are renowned for their timeless beauty and durability. They are resistant to fire, insects, and rot. Clay tiles are often associated with Mediterranean or Spanish-style homes.

  • Slate: Slate roofs are known for their elegance and longevity. They can last for over a century and require little maintenance. Slate roofs are commonly found on historic or high-end homes.

Investing in a new roof is a smart decision that can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your home. Not only does it improve the overall aesthetics, but it also increases property value, improves energy efficiency, and provides better protection. So, if you're looking to transform your home and make a lasting impression, consider upgrading your roof. Contact a professional roofing contractor today to explore your options and start your home transformation journey.

Remember, a new roof is not just an investment in your home's appearance but also in its long-term value and protection. Don't underestimate the power of a well-maintained and visually appealing roof in enhancing the overall curb appeal of your property. With the right roofing material and professional installation, you can enjoy a beautiful and functional roof that will transform your home for years to come.

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.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Moving to a new home can be an exciting! Amidst the chaos of packing boxes and coordinating logistics, it's important not to forget about the impact your move can have on your neighbors.

Moving to a new home can be an exciting but stressful time. Amidst the chaos of packing boxes and coordinating logistics, it's important not to forget about the impact your move can have on your neighbors. Being a considerate neighbor during the moving process is not only the right thing to do, but it can also help maintain positive relationships in your community. In this article, we will explore some essential moving etiquette tips to ensure a smooth and respectful transition for everyone involved.

1. Give Notice

One of the first steps in being a considerate neighbor during a move is to provide ample notice. Inform your neighbors about your moving plans well in advance, preferably a few weeks before the actual moving day. This will give them time to prepare for any potential disruptions and make necessary arrangements on their end.

2. Communicate Parking Needs

Moving trucks and vehicles can take up a significant amount of space, potentially causing inconvenience for your neighbors. To avoid any parking conflicts, communicate your parking needs with your neighbors beforehand. If possible, reserve parking spaces or provide alternative suggestions to ensure a smooth flow of traffic during the move.

3. Be Mindful of Noise

Moving involves a lot of noise, from the sound of boxes being shuffled to the constant opening and closing of doors. While it may be unavoidable, try to minimize excessive noise during early mornings, late evenings, or other times when your neighbors might be resting or working from home. Being mindful of noise levels demonstrates your consideration for their peace and quiet.

4. Protect Common Areas

If you live in an apartment building or a shared community, it's crucial to protect common areas during your move. Take extra care not to damage walls, floors, or elevators while moving furniture and boxes. Use protective coverings and padding where necessary to prevent any accidental damage. Cleaning up any mess promptly is also a considerate gesture towards your neighbors.

5. Offer Assistance

Moving can be physically demanding, and a helping hand can make a world of difference. If you notice your neighbors struggling with heavy items or could use some assistance, offer to lend a hand. Acts of kindness like this not only foster a sense of community but also show your neighbors that you value their well-being.

6. Follow Local Regulations

Different neighborhoods and communities may have specific regulations or guidelines regarding moving. Familiarize yourself with these rules and ensure that you adhere to them. This may include obtaining necessary permits, adhering to designated moving hours, or following specific routes for moving trucks. By respecting these regulations, you demonstrate your commitment to being a responsible neighbor.

7. Express Gratitude

Once you have completed your move, take the time to express gratitude to your neighbors for their understanding and patience. A simple thank-you note or a small gesture of appreciation can go a long way in maintaining positive relationships with those around you.

Being a considerate neighbor during the moving process is essential for a harmonious community. By giving notice, communicating parking needs, being mindful of noise, protecting common areas, offering assistance, following local regulations, and expressing gratitude, you can ensure a smooth and respectful transition for both yourself and your neighbors. Remember, a little consideration goes a long way in fostering a positive living environment.

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.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

Come Meet Your Neighbors!

Join neighbors and sample some of East Dallas’ restaurants, artisans, and local businesses at the Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce’s Meet East Dallasto be held on Thursday, May 16 at Caddo Office Reimagined at 6301 Gaston Avenue from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. 

Presenting Sponsor is Texas Tree Transformations LLC and host sponsor is Caddo Office Reimagined.

This event is open to the public and free to attend.  Local businesses will have displays and special offers for attendees. Adult beverages will be provided by White Rock Alehouse & Brewery and Westlake Brewery along with food samplings including Cita’s Salsa and Society Bakery & Tea Room. 

Businesses in attendance will include:

Adams Keegan, Ascension Coffee - White Rock, Bethany Christian Church, Blue Dragon Fine Art, CC Young - Senior Living Senior Care, Chisholm Trail Financial Group, Circle Ten Council, Boy Scouts of America, Cita's Salsa LLC, Dallas Piano Academy, East Dallas Therapy, EVP Communications, Fantastic Moves, Forge and Link Financial Group, LLC, Good Local Markets, In the Air Balloons, Junk Luggers, Lamar Advertising, LB Insurance, Maintenance, Inc., Metro Paws Animal Hospital, Rae's Hope, Rev Strategy, River Refresh LLC, Sandy’s Closet, Lisa Delatour -Sayre -Hettrick Group-Briggs Freeman Sotheby's Int'l Realty, Scottie, Scrub-A-Duds, Seniors Helping Seniors, Society Bakery & Tea Room, Spectrum Business, Superior Service Dallas, Texas Tree transformations LLC, The Civic School, The COBO Group, The Essential Families, The Fontanez Group, The Money Zone Business Services, LLC, Wayfinder Wealth, Westlake Brewery, White Rock Alehouse & Brewery, White Rock Center of Hope, Inc., Wilkinson Center, Logotology, BarNone.

Sharisa Lewis

(May 8, 2024) ­– Youth across the greater North Texas area pitched in to help improve lives and support the efforts of area charities for Global Youth Service Month.

In 15 nonprofit projects, over 1,000 teens helped food pantries, homeless shelters, refugees, city cleanups, animal conservation centers, special needs therapeutic horse centers and more.

Youth found projects using the help of JustServe.org, a free app and website that connects the needs of charities with volunteers. For 36 years, Global Youth Service Month has brought people together for community service events, this year from April 12-May 12. This event highlights youth ages 5 to 25 as they unite for a great cause within their community.

On Saturday, local youth will help Equihope horse farm to paint the metal fencing for the stables and pasture, finishing a task in one day that could take one or two people more than a week to complete. This project expresses gratitude to EquiHope staff and volunteers who have helped so many individuals and their families.

In Carrolton, 200 youth rallied behind The Birthday Party Project, spreading joy to homeless teens and children in Dallas through birthday celebrations. Teens enthusiastically put together 790 party favor bags, through donations gathered through the community and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This project resulted in a month's worth of parties for those in need, promising countless smiles and moments of happiness.

At Fossil Rim Wildlife Conservation center, youth clear brush in the pastures; stain benches and the stage for the outdoor classroom; recycle feed bags; and remove old fencing. Children and youth truly do make a difference. 

See service project video reels at facebook.com/justservenorthtexas

Scott Hughes, a director at Fossil Rim, shared the volunteers supported Fossil Rim and allowed employees to focus their efforts on the conservation programs to protect endangered wildlife species. 

The annual Global Youth Service Day sponsored by Youth Service America can help foster a spirit of community and service and teach youngsters that service does not need to be complicated.

At Tarrant Area Food Bank, youth served for two hours helping to sort and prepare heads of cabbage for families in need throughout the Tarrant County Area.

At Christ’s Haven in North Richland Hills, 100 youth made reusable grocery bags out of recycled t-shirts to be used at the food pantry at Christ's Haven, a JustServe partner. The teens made 260 bags in less than three hours.

At Frisco’s Clean It and Green It city cleanup, youth served despite rainstorms to clean up trash. Rian Wilson, a young adult who served in Frisco, said “I enjoyed serving the community. I loved that we were given a trail as our location to pick up trash. Even with the rain, it was fun to be able to be out in nature with my friends and work alongside them to serve out community.”

In Tyler, 300 youth showed up to serve those struggling with food insecurity at East Texas Food Bank. “It’s really good to know you get to be a part of something that big,” said Cohen Sacks, a youth volunteer for the East Texas event.

Families in Prosper joined a community Food Pack at Stonebriar Community Church for Feed My Starving Children.

Luke Compton, a seventh grader, and his sister Emma Jane, a high school sophomore, loved serving at the food pack. Luke said, “It was fun that we all worked together.” He added, “The best part is helping people in need.”

Find the perfect project for you and the young people in your life by visiting JustServe.org or for North Texas at facebook.com/justservenorthtexas

Gravatar

Sheraton Dallas, is hosting an indulgent Mother’s Day brunch buffet to celebrate the mothers and special women in your life on Sunday, May 12 from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm. 

 

Open Palette, located within Sheraton Dallas, will offer a variety of unique culinary offerings available for $68/adults and $25/children. 

 

The brunch will feature diverse stations featuring: 

  • Local cheese table 

  • Charcuterie table 

  • Seafood station featuring fresh ceviche, crab claws and shrimp & lobster salad

  • Salad station with a variety of fresh greens 

  • Breakfast station featuring traditional breakfast items 

  • Omelet station

  • Carving station with Roasted Garlic Prime Rib and Al Pastor Pork and Smoked Swordfish tacos 

  • Pasta station featuring a variety of pastas, sauces and toppings 

  • Kids station with homemade fried chicken, fish sticks, scrambled eggs, and buttermilk pancakes

  • Sweet treats, pastries and fruit 

 

Reservations can be made by calling Open Palette at 469-371-1486, or by booking via OpenTable - https://www.opentable.com/r/open-palette-dallas.

 

Open Palette is located inside Sheraton Dallas in downtown and offers fresh, flavorful American classics inspired by its Dallas roots. 

 

Sheraton Dallas’ parking garage offers up to four hours of complimentary parking for those dining at the hotel. On-site valet service is also available.

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

On Friday, May 3, 2024, Broadway Dallas proudly unveiled the updated lobby installation of South Dallas Stories: Uprooted, a poignant multimedia exhibit that delves into the historical inequities of the South Dallas neighborhood. This event marked a significant step in the theater's ongoing commitment to fostering community conversations and exploring the rich, complex history of its home neighborhood.

The event featured several notable speakers, including Nitashia Johnson, a multi-media artist and creator of The Beauty Of South Dallas Collection. Johnson's work has been instrumental in highlighting the beauty and resilience of South Dallas through photography and documentary-style interviews. Her latest collection includes illustrations of Fair Park, surrounding historic landmarks, and memorabilia of the late Juanita J. Craft, a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement.

Another speaker was Pat Perez, a founding member of The Friends of Juanita Craft Civil Rights House and Museum. Perez shared insights into the historical significance of South Dallas and its impact on the broader civil rights movement.

Michael Sneed, a devoted South Dallas native and resident, also spoke at the event, sharing his personal experiences and reflections on the neighborhood's history and resilience.

The updated lobby installation of South Dallas Stories: Uprooted offers viewers a compelling visual narrative that sheds light on the community's struggles and triumphs. Through photography, illustrations, and documentary-style interviews, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant history of South Dallas and gain a deeper understanding of the systemic inequities that have shaped the neighborhood.

Broadway Dallas' decision to dedicate a prominent space in the Music Hall lobby to this exhibit is a testament to its commitment to racial equity and social justice. By centering the stories of South Dallas community members, the theater aims to spark meaningful conversations and inspire action towards a more equitable future.

As we continue on our journey towards racial equity, Broadway Dallas invites you to explore South Dallas Stories: Uprooted and join us in honoring the resilience and strength of the South Dallas community.