Staff & Reader Submitted
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
When their eyes locked, it was love at first sight. Charles Owen of Argyle just knew it was meant to be when he saw Zeke’s face for the first time.

When their eyes locked, it was love at first sight. Charles Owen of Argyle just knew it was meant to be when he saw Zeke’s face for the first time. 

“This was the start of a life-long relationship,” said Owen. “The truck pulled up and Zeke was super sweet. He came over to the corner of the pick-up and just wanted some attention. At first, I didn’t even notice the truck had a dog in the back, he was that calm. I didn’t go looking to adopt another dog, but seeing how sweet Zeke was just made me want him!” 

As the general manager of Park Place Lexus Grapevine, Owen and members of his team were at Apollo Support & Rescue in Justin to present the no-kill animal shelter with a grant from Park Place Dealerships Season of Giving Campaign.

While there, a man drove up to surrender the five-year-old Bernese Mountain dog.

“Unfortunately, this is not at all uncommon,” explained Danielle Stewart, Apollo Support & Rescue founder. “Many days we arrive to find abandoned animals tied to our fence. It’s really heartbreaking.”

“I know it was a hard decision for Zeke’s previous owners to take him to Apollo,” said Owen. “I hope they know Zeke found his forever home and gets all the love and attention he wants!”

Eighteen North Texas non-profits received a Season of Giving grant from Park Place Dealerships in November. The dealership group awarded $100,000 to the non-profits who serve the greater Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Park Place received applications from more than 400 North Texas area non-profits. They selected the recipients for a Season of Giving grant that aligns with one of Park Place’s Four Pillars of Giving: Education; Medical Research; Advocacy; or the Arts.

“For more than 35 years, Park Place has partnered with local charities that serve Dallas/Fort Worth and surrounding areas,” said Kara Connor, Park Place Dealership’s Experiential Marketing Manager. “We have developed relationships with many amazing organizations who serve North Texas in meaningful ways. We are excited to learn more about these new recipients and learn how we can work together going forward to help them achieve their goals.” 

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

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Robert S. Kaplan, former President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas and former Vice Chair and CEO of the Investment Banking and Asset Management Division at Goldman Sachs, and William (Bill) D. Rowe II, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Rowe Global, joined Sam L. Susser, Chairman and CEO of Susser Bank, for a 2024 Economic Outlook discussion.

Robert S. Kaplan, former President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas and former Vice Chair and CEO of the Investment Banking and Asset Management Division at Goldman Sachs, and William (Bill) D. Rowe II, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Rowe Global, joined Sam L. Susser, Chairman and CEO of Susser Bank, for a 2024 Economic Outlook discussion at Old Parkland with 100 clients and bank executives in attendance. Together, they discussed the 2024 economic outlook, recent trends and developments in the national and Texas economy and opportunities for Texas businesses and communities. 

Rowe moderated the panel where Kaplan discussed inflation, interest rates, US fiscal policy and stressed the importance of investing in education in Texas. Susser discussed the current state of banking in Texas and addressed the root cause and aftermath of the three bank failures that occurred in March of 2023. 

During the conversation, Susser shared that the Bank was highly liquid, well capitalized and had a successful year, crossing over the $2.2 billion mark for the first time. Susser Bank continues to focus on core deposits, investing in technology and cultivating a team of talented bankers to solve what’s next for our clients. 

As the meeting drew to a close, the group expressed optimism about continued population growth and the short and long-term future of Texas and its leading role in our nation’s innovation and business growth. 

Founded 63 years ago, Susser Bank has operated under the ownership and direction of Susser Banc Holdings Corporation since July 2, 2018. 

Susser Bank is a Texas-based company offering a full suite of personal and commercial banking solutions with branches in Dallas, Arlington, Bedford, Fort Worth, Garland, Houston, San Antonio, Round Rock and an LPO in Austin. The company is a diversified bank with robust capital, liquidity, and leading-edge technology led by the Susser family and a legacy of six generations of Texas entrepreneurs. Susser Bank is dedicated to building long-term client relationships and providing outstanding financial solutions that strengthen Texas. More information is available at susserbank.com.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Ethics Symposium_1-24-2024_5113 (1) (1).JPG Keynote speaker Dr. Melinda Sutton, Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students at SMU, spoke at Shelton's Ethics Symposium about the ethics of student conduct and academic integrity.

Shelton's eleventh- and twelfth-grade students attended Shelton's 22nd Ethics Symposium, "Everyday Ethics," on Jan. 24, 2024. Activities included guided discussions, small group exercises and panel discussions with guest presenters. Speakers and panelists engaged students with lessons learned from real-world professional experiences. Keynote speaker Dr. Melinda Sutton, Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students at SMU, spoke about the ethics of student conduct and academic integrity. Chase Miller (Shelton Class of 2014), who is Executive Vice President at NAI Robert Lynn, delivered the “Charge of the Day.” 

Panels included: 

The Ethics of Taking Action (the responsibility of being an engaged citizen):

  • Cara Mendelsohn, Dallas City Council Member, District 12, Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee on General Investigating and Ethics
  • Gromer Jeffers, Dallas Morning News political reporter

Ethics of Taking Care (sustainability, protecting the environment, taking care of our community):

  • Carlos R. Evans, Dallas Director of the Office of Environmental Quality & Sustainability, Dallas City Hall
  • Avery McKitrick, University of Texas-Dallas’ Senior Sustainability Coordinator for Operations and Engagement
  • Chris Guldi, former Conservation Chair of the Dallas Sierra Club 

The Ethics of Taking Heart (knowing right from wrong, recovering from mistakes, building resiliency):

  • Michael Berry, Executive Director of Youth Guidance and former program supervisor of B.A.M., Becoming a Man in Dallas Independent School District, a mentoring program that guides young men to become positive members of their community
  • Tim Grigsby, CEO of the 24 Hour Club, which offers support services for homeless alcoholics and addicts
  • Mandi Patton, Program Manager of the 24 Hour Club
Gravatar

True North Advisors, LLC (“True North”), a Texas-based registered investment adviser (“RIA”), today announced it has entered into a strategic partnership with Wealth Partners Capital Group (“WPCG”), a financial services holding company, and HGGC, a firm focused on partnership investing. WPCG and HGGC have made a minority equity investment in True North to help accelerate True North’s growth via targeted acquisitions. The management team of True North remain majority shareholders and will continue to control the decision-making and operations of the firm. 

   

Founded in 2000 by Scott Wood and Mark Gehlbach, True North is one of the fastest growing RIAs in Texas1 and one of the top 150 RIAs in the country2. Headquartered in Dallas with an additional office in Fort Worth, the firm serves significant business owners, entrepreneurs, and families with wealth planning, investment management and business transaction planning solutions. In addition, True North oversees a growing, turnkey alternative investment platform, Western Alternative Strategies, that offers exclusive access to institutional-quality private investments. The firm manages over $3.3 billion in assets under management.

 

True North’s partnership with WPCG and HGGC will allow the firm to remain focused on serving its clients while expanding its presence in Texas and the Southwest, where True North’s leadership and brand is well established and highly regarded.  

 

“We are confident that this partnership will open up new opportunities for growth, creativity, and success,” said Mark Gehlbach, President and Co-founder of True North. “WPCG’s expertise in identifying strategic opportunities will undoubtedly enrich the depth and breadth of our core offerings, providing our clients with even more comprehensive solutions,” added Scott Wood, CEO and Co-founder of True North. 

 

“With a deep and experienced management team, strong regional brand and a unique approach to planning and investments, True North is poised to become the leading wealth management firm in the Southwest,” said John Copeland, Managing Partner of WPCG. “We are excited to partner with Scott, Mark and the entire True North team in growing the firm and attracting the highest level of advisory talent.”

 

“True North is well positioned to expand its platform, and we are pleased to bring additional resources to help the firm continue its momentum through both organic growth and strategic M&A,” said Neil White, President of HGGC. “We look forward to supporting the management team on these and other business-building initiatives in the coming years.” HGGC will invest in True North via Aspire Holdings, a holding company dedicated to investing in the wealth management space.

 

The partnership closed January 22, 2024. Financial and legal terms of the transaction will not be disclosed. Colchester Partners LLC served as the financial advisor to True North. Alston & Bird and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to True North and the new investor group, respectively.

 

 

About True North Advisors

 

True North Advisors is a privately-owned Multi-Family Office serving families, business owners and entrepreneurs with the highest level of service since 2000. The firm’s mission is Fulfilling Lives™, and it delivers on this promise by providing integrated wealth planning, investment, and alternative solutions that create multi-generational portfolio longevity. The firm has over $3.3B in assets under management (as of 12/31/23), and has been recognized by Forbes / SHOOK Research as one of the 2023 Top 150 RIAs in America, recognized throughout North Texas as the #1 Best Place to Work in the Medium Sized Business Category by Dallas Business Journal, consecutively honored as a Top Wealth Management Firm and Best Financial Planner by D Magazine, and ranked as one of the Fastest Growing Middle Market 50 Businesses in Dallas. For more information, please visitwww.truenorthadvisors.com.

 

About Wealth Partners Capital Group

 

Wealth Partners Capital Group (“WPCG”) is a financial services holding company, which invests in and partners with select leading wealth management firms. WPCG assists its partner firms by identifying and integrating like-minded wealth advisers who seek access to expanded business capabilities, strategic growth and/or customized transition solutions. For more information, please visit www.wealthpcg.com.

 

About HGGC

 

HGGC is a leading middle-market investment firm based in Palo Alto, Calif. with over $6.9 billion in cumulative capital commitments. HGGC is focused on partnerships with management teams, founders and sponsors who reinvest alongside HGGC, creating a strong alignment of interests. HGGC makes investments in RIAs via its Aspire Holdings platform, which is targeting $300 million of total investment in the space. More information is available at hggc.com.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

It’s Girl Scout Cookie season – and Kenny’s Burger Joints in Plano and Frisco are celebrating in a big way!  The iconic burger restaurants will offer two cookie-themed shakes beginning Feb. 1.  Guests can order either a Thin Mints shake or a Samoas shake – both available in an “adult” version for $9.99 or a non-alcoholic version for $4.99.

Additionally, to fuel the troops during their busy fundraising season, any Girl Scout in uniform dining in a Kenny’s Burger Joint will receive a free non-alcoholic shake!

Kenny’s Burger Joint is the creation of chef Kenny Bowers and restaurateur Bob Stegall.  The restaurant features world-class burgers, sandwiches, salads and sides in a comfortable, engaging atmosphere.  Guests can enjoy a full bar and a menu featuring the finest ingredients in simple, delicious preparations in a relaxed, full-service environment.


Kenny’s Burger Joint

1377 Legacy Dr.

Frisco, TX 75034

214-618-8001

 

Kenny’s Burger Joint

5809 Preston Road

Suite 588

Plano, TX 75093

972-378-0999

 

 

www.kennysburgerjoint.com

Sun – Thurs – 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Fri – Sat – 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

There is a big weekend coming up in the pizza world. National Pizza Day is Friday, Feb. 9, and the big game on Sunday, Feb. 11 marks the single largest pizza delivery day of the year. Dough Bro’s Italian Kitchen is celebrating all weekend long by offering a special package for pizza lovers regardless of what they’re celebrating.

From Feb. 9-11, at all four North Texas Dough Bro’s locations, diners can order any large specialty pizza and receive an additional pizza for half price. Wash it all down with a free 2-liter soda. This special is good for all dine-in* and take out orders.

 

 

LOCATIONS:

FARMERS BRANCH

1980 LBJ Freeway

Farmer’s Branch, TX 75234

469-850-6501

*take out only at this location

 

DALLAS/KELLER SPRINGS

5181 Keller Springs Road

Dallas, TX 75248

469-248-0058

 

PLANO

1941 Preston Road, #1004

Plano, TX 75093

972-407-9500

 

BEDFORD

1601 Airport Freeway

Bedford, TX 75021

817-438-8026

 

ABOUT DOUGH BRO’S

Since 2011, Dough Bro’s has celebrated the world’s most perfect food – pizza! Dough Bro’s Italian Kitchen takes pride in serving modern versions of your favorite classic dishes made with the finest fresh, local ingredients. Our dough is made in-house daily with locally sourced honey and is the foundation of our award-winning pizza and calzones. Seasonal local ingredients inspire our weekly chef features and our scratch-made specialties. We make craft pizza, and we appreciate the time and effort it takes to make something truly unique. Dough Bro’s wants to be your destination for fun, food and festivities. For more information, visit doughbro.com.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

 Rainbow Days hosted its 27th annual Saturday with Santa Christmas event to spread hope and holiday joy for families experiencing homelessness in the Dallas community. This celebratory event hosted on the Lovers Lane United Methodist Church campus spread holiday magic by giving out over 500 stockings filled with toys, treats and essential tangible items to all family members.

Rainbow Days hosted approximately 300 children and parents?from local homeless shelters, domestic violence centers and extended-stay motels for a day of holiday fun and family bonding. At the 2023 Saturday with Santa event, children and parents enjoyed lunch, carnival games, bouncy houses, arts and crafts, and visits with Santa Claus. 

After the event, Rainbow Days distributed additional stockings and gifts to over 200 more children and parents living at partnering homeless-serving sites. The 2023 Saturday with Santa event benefited over 500 homeless children and parents who reside in local homeless and domestic violence shelters, transitional living sites and extended-stay motels.  

Rainbow Days would like to recognize all of the outstanding individuals and groups who made Saturday with Santa a success this holiday season: 

  • Bank of America
  • Hearts of Servants
  • HEB / Central Market
  • Holy Smokers
  • Lovers Lane United Methodist Church
  • National Charity League
  • PepsiCo / Frito-Lay
  • Prince of Peace Catholic Community
  • The Rees-Jones Foundation
  • Toys for Texans
  • TTG Family Fund
  • Young Men's Service League
  • Amazon Wish List Donors
  • Plus, hundreds of individuals who supported Saturday with Santa through financial gifts, in-kind donations of toys and stockings, and volunteer hours! 

ABOUT RAINBOW DAYS: Rainbow Days is a Dallas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Founded in 1982, Rainbow Days has a mission to help children and youth in adversity build coping skills and resilience to create positive futures. Through support groups, life enrichment programs and tangible items, Rainbow Days makes meaningful connections with more than 15,000 at-risk and homeless children and youth in the Dallas area annually. Rainbow Days expands its impact through international training services, which trains other nonprofit staff, teachers and counselors in its award-winning CBSG® Program.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

While it’s too early to know which teams we’ll be cheering on, we know that on Sunday, Feb. 11, we’ll all want to be close to a big screen. Catch the big game – and play great games – on Sunday, Feb. 11 at Punch Bowl Social. From 5 to 10 p.m., you can watch the game, grab game day swag, play football bingo and enjoy drink specials including buckets of beer, themed ranch waters and themed shots.

 

A game day playlist will feature gameday performers heavily in the rotation.

The party will be held at all Punch Bowl Social locations and is free with RSVP here. For more information, visit punchbowlsocial.com.

EVENT DETAILS

What:  The Big Game Watch Party at Punch Bowl Social

When: 5 to 10 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11

Where: All Punch Bowl Social locations

Cost: Free with RSVP - https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/big-game-watch-party-3003359

Information: punchbowlsocial.com

 

LOCATIONS


CALIFORNIA

Rancho Cucamonga

Sacramento

San Diego

COLORADO

Denver

GEORGIA

Atlanta

ILLINOIS

Chicago

INDIANA

Indianapolis

MINNESOTA

Minneapolis

OHIO

Cleveland

OREGON

Portland

TEXAS

Austin – Domain

Austin – Downtown

Dallas

VIRGINIA

Arlington


 

ABOUT PUNCH BOWL SOCIAL

As the proud host of the unexpected, Punch Bowl Social’s mission is to bring people together through a one of a kind offering of food, fun, first-rate hospitality, and exceptional entertainment. Scratch kitchens, craft cocktails, social gaming, and music are presented in eclectic and creatively designed spaces to provide the perfect setting for unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking to have a night out with friends or want to host THE event of the season, Punch Bowl Social has you.

Website: https://punchbowlsocial.com

social media: @punchbowlsocial

###

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Are you overlooking your roof's insulation? Proper roof insulation not only helps support to keep the cold air out and the warm air in, but it can also save you money on your energy bills.

Winter is here, and with it comes the need to keep our homes warm and cozy. One often overlooked aspect of home insulation is the roof. Proper roof insulation not only helps support to keep the cold air out and the warm air in, but it can also save you money on your energy bills. Here, we will explore the importance of roof insulation and how it can benefit you this winter.

The Benefits of Proper Roof Insulation

  1. Energy Efficiency: A well-insulated roof acts as a barrier, preventing heat from escaping your home. This means that your heating system doesn't have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills.

  2. Improved Comfort: With proper roof insulation, you can say goodbye to cold drafts and chilly spots in your home. By maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your living space, you can enjoy a cozy and comfortable environment all winter long.

  3. Reduced Condensation: Insulation helps to prevent condensation from forming on the underside of your roof. This is important because excessive condensation can lead to moisture-related issues such as mold growth and structural damage.

  4. Long-Term Savings: Investing in roof insulation can provide long-term financial benefits. By reducing your energy consumption, you can save money on your heating bills year after year. Additionally, proper insulation can extend the lifespan of your roof by preventing damage caused by temperature fluctuations.

Types of Roof Insulation

There are several types of roof insulation available, each with its own unique benefits. Here are a few popular options:

  1. Fiberglass Insulation: This type of insulation is made from tiny glass fibers and is known for its excellent thermal performance. It is lightweight, easy to install, and offers good soundproofing qualities.

  2. Cellulose Insulation: Made from recycled paper products, cellulose insulation is an eco-friendly option. It provides effective insulation and is resistant to pests and mold.

  3. Spray Foam Insulation: This type of insulation is applied as a liquid and expands to fill gaps and crevices, creating an airtight seal. It offers superior insulation properties and can help to improve indoor air quality.

Hiring a Professional Roofing Company

While some homeowners may attempt to install roof insulation themselves, it is often best to hire a professional roofing company. They have the expertise and experience to ensure that the insulation is installed correctly and meets all safety and building code requirements.

When choosing a roofing company, consider the following:

  1. Experience: Look for a company with a proven track record of providing quality roofing services. Check their portfolio and read customer reviews to get an idea of their reputation.

  2. Certifications and Insurance: Ensure that the company is licensed, insured, and certified to perform roofing work. This will protect you from liability in case of accidents or damage during the installation process.

  3. Warranty: Inquire about the warranty offered by the roofing company. A reputable company will stand behind its work and provide a warranty that covers both materials and labor.

  4. Cost: While cost is an important factor, it should not be the sole determining factor. Consider the overall value and quality of the services provided by the roofing company.

Proper roof insulation is essential for keeping your home warm and comfortable during the winter months. By investing in quality insulation and hiring a professional roofing company, you can enjoy the benefits of energy efficiency, improved comfort, and long-term savings. Don't let the cold air seep in through your roof - take action today and start saving money this winter.

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
Have a reason to declutter? We will share expert tips and tricks on how to effectively declutter and downsize your space in 2024.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the thought of moving to a new space? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Here, we will share expert tips and tricks on how to effectively declutter and downsize your space in 2024. Whether you're moving to a new home or office, these strategies will help you streamline the process and make your move a breeze.

Why Decluttering and Downsizing Matters

Decluttering and downsizing before a move is essential for several reasons. First, it allows you to get rid of unnecessary items and create a fresh start in your new space. Second, it helps you save time and money during the moving process. The less you have to pack and transport, the smoother and more cost-effective your move will be. Lastly, decluttering and downsizing can have a positive impact on your mental well-being, as it promotes a sense of organization and reduces stress.

Step-by-Step Guide to Decluttering and Downsizing

1. Start Early and Set Goals

Begin the decluttering process well in advance of your move. Set specific goals for each room or area you plan to tackle. This will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the process.

2. Sort and Categorize

Go through your belongings and categorize them into three groups: keep, donate/sell, and discard. Be honest with yourself and only keep items that you truly need or love. Consider donating or selling items that are in good condition but no longer serve a purpose for you.

3. Maximize Storage Space

Make the most of your storage space by utilizing smart organization solutions. Invest in storage bins, shelves, and drawer dividers to keep your belongings neatly organized. This will not only make packing and unpacking easier but also help you optimize your new space.

4. Digitize Documents and Photos

Reduce paper clutter by digitizing important documents and photos. Scan and save them on your computer or in the cloud. This will not only save physical space but also ensure that your important files are easily accessible and protected.

5. Seek Professional Help

If you find the decluttering and downsizing process overwhelming, consider hiring a professional moving company. They have the expertise and experience to assist you in efficiently organizing and packing your belongings. They can also provide valuable advice on storage solutions and logistics.

Decluttering and downsizing your space before a move is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this blog post, you'll be able to streamline the process and make the most of your new space. Remember, starting early and setting goals, sorting and categorizing, maximizing storage space, digitizing documents and photos, and seeking professional help are key strategies for a successful move.

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.