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Puttshack, the world’s first and only tech-infused mini golf experience, is cranking up summer vibes to the MAX with exclusive limited-time-only deals, all the ‘90s hip-hop feels – and a special summer drink menu bringing real West Coast cool direct to Puttshack.   

Beginning June 3rd, Puttshack venues will feature Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop – the debut ready-to-drink signature cocktail from Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s new premium spirits company – marking the first feature collaboration with a national beverage brand for Puttshack. 

“As a tech-forward company that’s obsessed with creating the best guest experience, we are always innovating our game and finding new programs, new partners, and new ways to welcome everyone in,” says Susan Walmesley, Puttshack COO & CMO. “Puttshack is about bringing everyone in to play, and connecting with Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop – which has just hit the market – is a perfect way to kick off the season for summer fun in our venues.”

Guests can enjoy Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop cans on the course, BOGO mini golf on Mondays, throwback videos on Wednesdays, a “Maxed Out” national sweepstakes, and a limited summer-ready cocktail. Both brands are excited to celebrate summer with such a no-brainer combo of a great game and great beverage to share with friends – leveraging their shared value of “changing the game”: via mini golf and competitive socializing for Puttshack – and of course through the indelible mark that icons Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg have left on music and pop culture. 

"Puttshack and Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop make for a perfect partnership – nothing pairs better with high-tech mini-golf than a sip of a smooth, laid-back all-natural cocktail, courtesy of two groundbreaking icons,” says Rocco Milano, EVP Sales of Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop

Any great party needs more than great drinks. Puttshack is amping up the offers to get guests out of the heat and into its indoor tech-forward mini golf experience with a little something for everyone.

MAXED OUT MONDAYS  

This summer, Puttshack is keeping the weekend vibes going with Maxed Out Mondays. We’ll be kicking off each week with our limited-time-only cocktail, The Lowrider, and Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop canned beverages on the course to fuel your game. We are also offering a buy one, get one free mini golf game with code: MAXEDOUT to all Puttshack Perks members for use every Monday throughout the summer. What’s more, we’re rewarding high scores! Any guest who scores 550 or higher on Mondays will be emailed a $50 digital gift card for use toward any Puttshack purchase on a future visit.

WAYBACK WEDNESDAYZ  

We love to dial up the nostalgia with Wayback Wednesdayz at Puttshack, and this summer we’re taking it back to the 90s. Prepare to relive the golden age of hip-hop, as we pump up the jams with music videos featuring icons like Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre.  Also, Puttshack is offering $10 off $50 or more to guests who dine in with the promo code: WAYBACK.

SINGLES NIGHTS

Whether you're looking to find the gin to your juice or just down for a laid-back night of mingling, we’ve got you covered. Select Puttshack venues will host singles mixers and speed-dating events this summer. Sip on our specialty cocktail, The Lowrider, or share a bucket of Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop beverages with your new, or hopeful, boo. Check local Puttshack venue pages for more details.

NATIONAL SWEEPSTAKES

We’re hosting the flyest sweepstakes of the summer...literally! From June 1st to July 31st, we’re giving you the chance to score big with Puttshack Perks. Simply sign up on our website, and we’ll pick one winner at random to win a Maxed Out summer experience in Las Vegas! Find out more at https://www.puttshack.com/summervibes.

Further details and information on signing up for Puttshack Perks to take advantage of our Summer Vibes to the Max offers are available at: https://www.puttshack.com/summervibes.

Stephanie Horne
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Photo Credit: Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas 2024 Girl Scout Gold Award class with Jennifer Batrkowski, CEO of GSNETX, and Donna Epps, Executive Committee Board Chair of GSNETX.

Local high school leaders recognized for tackling societal issues, including gender disparity and mental wellness.

Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas honored 111 members of the 2024 Girl Scout Gold Award class in an inspiring ceremony at the Plano Event Center, making it the council with the third-highest number of Gold Award Girl Scouts in the nation. These exceptional young women achieved the highest honor in Girl Scouting by identifying key community challenges and developing innovative solutions.

Gold Award Girl Scouts emerge as empathetic leaders, confident communicators, innovative problem-solvers, and adept project managers, giving them a personal and professional edge. Utilizing the resourcefulness, tenacity, and decision-making skills honed during their Girl Scouting experience, they navigate complex issues and demonstrate the profound impact that young leaders can make in the world, inspiring others to follow in their trailblazing footsteps.

The 2024 Gold Award Girl Scouts address a range of issues that American teens feel are most prevalent in society today. This year, the prominent focus areas included diversity, equity, inclusion, and racial justice (DEI-RJ), mental and physical well-being, and environmental sustainability. Each project aligns with one or more of the Girl Scout pillars—STEM, Outdoors, Life Skills, and Entrepreneurship—showcasing the comprehensive skills and values that Girl Scouts instills in its members, helping them develop into well-rounded, capable leaders.

Among the impactful initiatives, Zoya Hussain dedicated her project, "Share-Space," towards bridging the gender disparity in STEM fields, where less than 20% of the workforce comprises gender minorities. Zoya collaborated with The Hack Foundation and co-founder Christina Asquith to deliver numerous hackathon events, teaching over 100 students coding skills like website development and video game design. Demonstrating outstanding entrepreneurial spirit through its effective and sustainable workshop model, her project recently secured a grant from SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell to expand its reach to 1,000 students across the nation. Zoya will graduate from Great Hearts Irving Upper School in 2025.

Representing the Girl Scout Pillar of Outdoors, Elizabeth Cater's project, "Red, White, & BBQ," was designed to establish a welcoming outdoor space at CampV, a veterans' campus in East Texas. Motivated by the troubling statistic that 22 veterans commit suicide each day, Elizabeth embarked on a mission to raise awareness and support. She presented at churches and other organizations throughout the community about the mental health challenges and PTSD that veterans face. Her remarkable efforts for CampV, which provided all essential barbecue equipment, including grills, utensils, trash cans, and a drawer storage system, earned her formal recognition from the Smith County Commissioners Court, which declared May 14 as "Elizabeth Cater Day." Elizabeth is set to graduate this year from Bishop Thomas K. Gorman Catholic School, where she has distinguished herself as the senior class president and salutatorian.

"These Gold Award Girl Scouts are not just participants in their communities but active architects of change," said Jennifer Bartkowski, CEO of Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas. “Each of their projects proves these young women are well-equipped to lead and innovate in any environment and underscores the powerful impact of the Girl Scout leadership experience.”

Changing the world doesn’t end when a Girl Scout earns her Gold Award. Research indicates that recipients are more likely to assume leadership roles in various capacities throughout their lives and are more civically engaged than their non-Girl Scout peers. The majority of Gold Award Girl Scouts agree that earning their Gold Award gave them skills that help them succeed professionally and credit the Gold Award for helping them get a scholarship, highlighting its substantial benefits beyond community service.

Achieved by less than 6% of Girl Scouts, the Gold Award requires a minimum of 80 hours of leading a team in a community service project and showcases these young women as tomorrow's leaders. Gold Award Girl Scouts embody the spirit and values of Girl Scouts, proving that with courage, confidence, and character, they are indeed the leaders who will shape a better future.

For more information about the Gold Awards, including requirements and deadlines to apply, visit gsnetx.org/goldaward.

***

We Are Girl Scouts

Whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike, advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges. Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas serves girls and adult volunteers across 32 counties. To change the workforce pipeline in STEM and meet the urgent need for female voices, engagement, and leadership, Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas opened the STEM Center of Excellence in 2018. Learn more at gsnetx.org or call 972-349-2400.


Media Contact: Stephanie Horne

Public Relations Manager, GSNETX

469-994-1629 | shijazi@gsnetx.com

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Most dads don’t want a fancy brunch on Father’s Day. They want a meal they can sink their teeth into, something that will get their hands dirty. And this Father’s Day, The Cajun Market at Bourbon Street Bar & Grill is giving them what they want: crawfish, at a price that can’t be beat.

 

Traditional Louisiana boiled crawfish will be served with corn and potatoes for only $6.99 a pound on Sunday, June 16. And since Dad often foots the bill, we’ve opened this deal up to all diners.

 

The offer is good for dine-in and take-out orders placed by calling the restaurant. Not available for third-party delivery.

 

 

The Cajun Market at Bourbon Street Bar & Grill

1833 Airport Freeway

Bedford, TX

817-527-5640

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Texas Women's Foundation/Tory Burch Candice Hill, Charmaine Tang, Tiffany Dufu, Karen Hughes White, Connie Babikian

On May 17, Tiffany Dufu, president of the Tory Burch Foundation, Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) board members and more than 100 supporters gathered at the Highland Park Village store to welcome the new TXWF President and CEO, Karen Hughes White. White started her position on April 29. Guests enjoyed breakfast, visited with each other and shopped as 20 percent of the proceeds benefited TXWF.

Dufu, who had previously spoken at Texas Women’s Foundation’s #BESTSELF conference to middle and high school girls in 2018, gave a welcome and thanked those in attendance for making strides to lift up women and girls in Texas.

White added, “I’m honored to be named the next leader of Texas Women’s Foundation that has been helping women, girls and families for nearly 40 years. A special thank you to Tory Burch and its foundation for hosting us. Thank you to all of you for your leadership in helping us achieve our mission of making Texas equitable for all.”

Some of the notable guests:

  •       Tiffany Dufu, President, Tory Burch Foundation
  •       Karen Hughes White, President and CEO, Texas Women’s Foundation
  •       Candice Hill, Host, TXWF Board Member
  •       Connie Kleinert Babikian, Host, TXWF Board Member
  •       Charmaine Tang, Host, TXWF Board Member
  •       Nakita Johnson, First Lady of Dallas, NorthFace
  •       Jennifer Sampson, CEO, United Way Dallas
  •       Ashlee Kleinert, Founder, Ruthie’s Fueled by Good
  •       Kate Rose Marquez, CEO Ascend Dallas
  •       Tracey Kozmetsky, Tory Burch Foundation Board Member
  •       Isabelle Adams, Founder and CEO, Paper for Water
  •       Felecia Burns, Austin Street Shelter
  •       Michelle Thomas, JP Morgan Chase
  •       Jane McGarry, Anchor, WFAA-TV Good Morning Texas

About Texas Women’s Foundation:

As Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) nears its 40th year, it is clear that now more than ever is the time to elevate Texas women. By working with women, families and communities, they are building a stronger, more equitable Texas. TXWF raises funding from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support more than $7.1 million in investments that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through timely research, advocacy, grants and strategic initiatives. Since inception in 1985, TXWF has invested $78.9 million in women and girls. Their statewide research on issues affecting women and girls provides decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs in the state. Its advocacy, grantmaking and leadership initiatives support solutions that help Texas women and girls thrive. In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the gender lens investing movement and has deployed 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a gendered impact portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now

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June is where summer truly begins, and no place is better to celebrate the season of sun than at the Monument Realty PGA District. The popular entertainment hub at the Omni PGA Frisco Resort’s 660-acre development has a full month of feasting, festivities and family activities.

 

 

 

JUNE EVENTS AT PGA FRISCO

June 4 | Women’s Golf Day

June 7 | Summer Movie Series – Camp Rock

June 8 | Little Designers in the District

June 13-16 | U.S. Open Watch Party

June 14| World Blood Donor Day – Blood Drive with Carter Blood Care

June 14 | Summer Movie Series – Shark Tale

June 15 | Lost Shaker of Salt – Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band Concert

June 16| Father’s Day at Ryder Cup Grille

June 17 | Father’s Day at Ice House

June 20 | KPMG Women’s PGA Championship Watch Party

June 20 | Sunset Texas Tapas Reception

June 21 | Summer Movie Series – Lilo & Stitch

June 22 | Rosé Soirée – Wine Walk & Tasting

June 28 | Summer Movie Series – Space Jam: A New Legacy

JUNE EVENT DETAILS

Women’s Golf Day

Tuesday, June 4

4:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Golfers of all abilities are invited to join PGA Professional Trish Holt and Women’s Golf Day founder Elisa Gaudet for an afternoon of golf, games, socializing, food/drinks, and more to celebrate Women's Golf Day Registration for this event includes a shotgun start on The Swing, with built-in contests and competitions, one included signature drink, heavy appetizers, bay play at Lounge by Topgolf and prizes for competition winners. Must register in advance here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/womens-golf-day-at-pga-frisco-tickets-885039365567?aff=oddtdtcreator

 

 

Summer Movie Series

Fridays, June 7, 14, 21, 28, 2024

8 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Gather your friends and family and cozy up on a blanket to watch your favorite flicks on the 900+ sq. ft. video wall. The movie will start at 8 p.m., weather permitting. PGA District restaurants will be open, serving your favorite foods, and concession snacks will be available to purchase from roaming beverage carts. Outside food and drinks are not permitted, nor are lawn chairs.

 

June 7 - Camp Rock

June 14 - Shark Tale

June 21- Lilo & Stitch

June 28 - Space Jam: A New Legacy

 

Little Designers in the PGA District

Saturday, June 8, 2024

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Join us in the Monument Realty PGA District on Saturday, June 8 from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for craft time with Playful Kids Club. Children will decorate their very own straw hat to keep them cool this summer. Adult supervision is required. Space is limited, so pre-registration is encouraged and can be done at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/little-designers-in-the-district-with-playful-kids-club-tickets-893766889827.

U.S. Open Watch Party

June 13-16, 2024

Golfers and golf fans alike are invited to join us for a U.S. Open Championship watch party on the video wall. Bring a blanket to relax on while watching the big screen or practice like the pros on The Dance Floor and The Swing.

 

Ice House and Lounge by Topgolf will also have the championship airing while offering select draft and beer bucket specials throughout the tournament.

 

World Blood Donor Day – Blood Drive with Carter BloodCare

Friday, June 14, 2024

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Save a life and earn a free scoop of ice cream from Margaret's Cones & Cups at the Carter BloodCare drive on Friday, June 14, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. All blood types are needed, especially "O" negative, the universal blood type that can save the lives of all patients. The first 20 donors will receive a voucher for a free scoop of ice cream at Margaret's Cones & Cups. Carter BloodCare is also giving away a 6-pack of cups while supplies last. Walk-ups for the drive are always welcome, but reservations are encouraged. Please use the link below to reserve a time slot. Look for the Carter BloodCare bus parked in the Monument Realty PGA District. Photo ID required. Carter BloodCare Sign Up: https://www.greatpartners.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/152421

 

Lost Shaker of Salt – Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band

Saturday, June 15, 2024

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Whether you’re a die-hard Parrothead or just looking for a laid-back night with great music, mark your calendar for Saturday, June 15! Lost Shaker of Salt, a Tribute to Jimmy Buffett, is coming to PGA Frisco and promises to take you on a musical vacation to paradise. They’ll be performing Jimmy’s top hits as well as the most recognized tropical music from around the world.

 

What’s a Jimmy Buffet tribute concert without a margarita bar? Guests can select from a variety of margaritas offered at a pop-up concessions booth.

 

Father’s Day at Ryder Cup Grille

Sunday, June 16, 2024

10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Celebrate Dad at Ryder Cup Grille with a memorable meal and views of Fields Ranch East and Fields Ranch West.

 

On Sunday, June 16, Ryder Cup Grille will offer a special menu for Father's Day, complete with a grilled tomahawk, cast iron mac n' cheese, blistered shishitos, fine herb butter, and a bourbon demi. This Father's Day feast is available for $75. The restaurant's full menu will also be available.

 

Make a reservation via OpenTable here.

 

 

Father’s Day at Ice House

Sunday, June 16, 2024

11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Celebrate Dad at Ryder Cup Grille with a memorable meal and views of Fields Ranch East and Fields Ranch West.

 

Spend the big day with Dad at the Monument Realty PGA District. The U.S. Open broadcast will be shown on the video wall and The Dance Floor will be open for play. Ice House is offering a Father's Day special that includes a whole smoked stuffed chicken with lobster mac stuffing and your choice of a side for $55. Seating is available on a first come first served basis and the special is only available while supplies last.

 

KPMG Women’s PGA Championship Watch Party

June 20-23, 2024

Come on out to PGA Frisco and catch the 2024 KPMG Women's PGA Championship on our 920 sqft. video wall! Live coverage will be broadcast throughout the week, culminating with the final round on Sunday, June 23.

 

Ice House and Lounge by Topgolf will also have the championship airing while offering select draft and beer bucket specials throughout the tournament.

 

PGA Frisco is are proud to host the 2025 KPMG Women's PGA Championship right here at PGA Frisco on the Fields Ranch East championship course. Save the date for June 19-22, 2025.

 

Sunset Texas Tapas Reception

Thursday, June 20, 2024

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Celebrate an evening of Texas flare and flavors at the Sunset Texas Tapas Reception at Omni PGA Frisco Resort. Set next to the shimmering pool at Mokara Spa, this event combines the best of Texas cuisine, craft beer, live music, and sunset ambiance for a perfect summer evening.

 

This “Texas Tapas” reception includes a welcome drink from Rollertown Beerworks, a local brewery owned by local celebrities Jeff “Skin” Wade and Ben Rogers, as well as a variety of bites from the Omni culinary team. Guests can expect to taste Texas Bruschetta, Smoked BBQ Meatballs, Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs, Cowboy Cream Puffs, and more! Guests will also experience a tasting of three additional beers from Rollertown Beerworks, including their signature Stout War Daddy, Juice Syrum, and The Big German.

 

$60 per guest includes a welcome drink, tapas, beer tasting, and gratuity. Additional beverages are available for purchase. Menu subject to change. Complimentary self-parking is available to guests of this experience. Valet parking available for purchase. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.

 

Rosé Soirée

Saturday, June 22, 2024

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

It's a Rosé Soirée! Get your group and head to PGA Frisco to explore the Monument Realty PGA District and sample 10 rosé wines.

 

Rosés to sample include:

 

La Marca Rosé

Miraval Cotes de Provence

Whispering Angel

Rodney Strong Rosé of Pinot Noir

Kim Crawford Rosé

Delola Bella Berry Hibiscus

Tormaresca Calafuria

Studio by Miraval

Fleur de Prairie

Rose Gold Rosé

 

 

Regular admission tickets ($45) include wine tastings. VIP admission tickets ($57) include wine tastings and a personal mini charcuterie box (picked-up at check-in). Pink and white outfits are encouraged.

 

Tickets are limited. Early registration is highly recommended. Must be 21+ to participate. Photo ID required at check-in.

 

PGA Frisco offers amazing activities year-round. Guests can learn about all upcoming events at pgafrisco.com/events or by registering for the Omni PGA Frisco newsletter.

 

 

About PGA Frisco

PGA Frisco is a public/private partnership between the PGA of America, Omni Hotels & Resorts, the City of Frisco, and the Frisco Independent School District. The 660-acre campus is a unique destination that includes: two world-class 18-hole championship golf courses, collectively known as Fields Ranch, and a state-of-the-art clubhouse; the Omni PGA Frisco Resort, featuring 500 guest rooms and suites and 10 exclusive four-bedroom Ranch Houses, four pools, destination spa and 127,000 square feet of meeting and event space; the Monument Realty PGA District which features The Swing, a lighted 10-hole short course, The Dance Floor, a lighted 2-acre putting course and an expansive retail, dining and entertainment district, including an outdoor area for concerts and events, the high-tech, data-driven PGA Coaching Center; the Home of the PGA of America and the Jerry J. Ransom Northern Texas PGA Golf House.

 

About Omni PGA Frisco Resort

Opening May 2, 2023, Omni PGA Frisco Resort offers a reimagined destination resort experience for the ultimate getaway. With a wide selection of unique experiences and remarkable year-round programming and activities, the resort provides a diverse and fun-filled destination for guests of all ages. The oasis of the 660-acre PGA Frisco campus, this luxury resort will be both one of the world's leading meeting and conference destinations as well as a bucket list leisure destination featuring two championship golf courses at Fields Ranch designed by Gil Hanse and Beau Welling. With comprehensive resort amenities featuring a signature spa, 13 restaurants and bars, and retail shops - there's something designed for all. Featuring subtle nods to Texas culture, each of the resort's 500 guest rooms and suites and 10 exclusive four-bedroom modern-Texas ranch houses, offer sweeping views of lush surrounds. The resort features more than 127,000 sq. ft of indoor and outdoor space for meetings and events, including 2 ballrooms; 19 meeting rooms; 9 outdoor event venues; and Panther Creek Pavilion, the ideal venue for weddings. Visit omnipgafriscoresort.com or call 469-305-4500 for more information and room reservations. Follow Omni PGA Frisco Resort on Facebook and Instagram.

 

About Monument Realty

About Monument Realty: Founded in 2017, Monument Realty is a next-generation, full-service real estate brokerage based in Frisco, Texas, headquartered at The Star. Named the Number One Best Large Company to Work For by the Dallas Morning News, Monument is the Official Real Estate Company of The Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, Dak Prescott, and PGA of America. For more information, visit monumentrealtytx.com and follow Monument Realty on InstagramFacebook and LinkedIn.

About the PGA of America

The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of nearly 28,000 PGA Professionals who work daily to grow interest and inclusion in the game of golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

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Black Agave Cocina Y Cantina, the new “Mex-Tex” restaurant in Mercer Boardwalk in Farmers Branch, will celebrate National Cheese Day on Tuesday, June 4 by giving guests a free cup of Queso Blanco and Nixtamal Tostadas with the purchase of an entrée. The offer is good all day for dine-in or take-out (call-in orders only).

 

Black Agave also offers another queso option on its menu for meat lovers. The Queso al Pastor features al pastor pork and corn pico for $10.99. 

Black Agave gives guests an elevated, contemporary Mexican dining experience. Black Agave serves beloved heritage recipes with bold flavors by Chef Omar Adame, who uses only the highest-quality ingredients. The restaurant also prides itself on its unique cocktail program, with flavors that complement the restaurant’s food.

For more information on Black Agave, visit the restaurant or its website, blackagavetx.com.

 

Location

1980 Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway

Farmers Branch, Texas 75234

469-850-6501

blackagavetx.com

 

 

About Black Agave

 

Black Agave Cocina y Cantina celebrates a taste of Mexican tradition. Guests will indulge in the vibrant flavors and festive ambience at Black Agave, where every moment becomes a reason to celebrate. From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere that captures the essence of Mexican culture, while our authentic and delicious meals take your taste buds on a journey of pure delight. Whether you’re savoring a good day, reconnecting with friends, or bidding farewell to the work week, your perfect celebration starts at our table.

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Charlie K Media- Rob Morris; Gordon Kellerman; Tra

Skybox Datacenters, a leading national data center developer proudly celebrated its 10-year anniversary on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. The event was a spectacular affair set against Dallas at dusk and featured delicious food, beautiful decor, and commemorative Skybox Datacenter branded items for attendees, creating an atmosphere of elegance and celebration fitting for this significant milestone.

The celebration featured remarks from key executives, including CEO Rob Morris, CFO Travis Young, Chief Development Officer Haynes Strader, and EVP Sales & Leasing Gordon Kellerman. They highlighted Skybox Datacenters' achievements over the past ten years, emphasizing the company's ability to execute projects of all sizes and complexities, with over 1,400 MW and 4.2 million square feet of data center development to date.

"Celebrating our 10-year anniversary is an incredibly meaningful milestone for Skybox. It's a testament to the unwavering dedication and passion of our incredible team", said Skybox Datacenters CEO Rob Morris. "We are profoundly grateful for the trust our customers have placed in us and proud of the innovative solutions and state-of-the-art facilities we've delivered over the past decade. As we look to the future, our commitment to exceeding our customers’ needs remains stronger than ever."

Founded in 2014 by industry veterans Rob Morris (CEO) and Travis Young (CFO), Skybox Datacenters has emerged as a key player in the data center market, delivering state-of-the-art facilities and innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of businesses, including cloud computing, AI, and machine learning, across the United States. Over the past decade, the company has distinguished itself with a customer-centric approach, consistently delivering purpose-built, mission-critical facilities tailored to meet the unique requirements of its clients. This includes hyperscale infrastructure solutions, speculative developments, campus deployments, powered shells, turn-key solutions, and build-to-suit projects.

 

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Punch Bowl Social believes in creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone can feel accepted and celebrated for who they are. It recognizes the importance of diversity and strives to foster a sense of belonging for all patrons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

During June, in celebration of Pride Month, all Punch Bowl Social locations have partnered with Chambord to create a special Pride Punch. Pride Punch features the famed black raspberry liqueur from France's Loire Valley with prosecco and a selection of fresh juices. During Pride Month, Chambord has committed to giving $25,000 to PFLAG.

 

Photo credit: Stephanie Kelly

Additionally, Punch Bowl Social has partnered with Texas-based graphic designer and illustrator Claire Morales to create celebratory swag available to everyone. While supplies last, guests making any purchase at Punch Bowl Social can select a colorful tote celebrating Pride Month at Punch Bowl Social. All guests can choose one of the free stickers featuring the same joyful and colorful art.

 

Photo credit: Hannah Dimmitt

 

Punch Bowl Social is proud to be a Safe Space partner and to ensure the safety and well-being of all its guests. By embracing LGBTQ inclusivity, it not only promotes equality but also welcomes a diverse customer base and contributes positively to the community's social fabric.

Punch Bowl Social will participate in Pride parades and events in a variety of markets across the country throughout the year.

 

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

###

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The Academy Spring '24 Graduation Ceremony recognized first group of graduates (11 total) to complete all six levels of English as a Second Language (ESL) courses.

Ceremony recognizes first group of graduates (11 total) to complete all six levels of English as a Second Language (ESL) courses 

The Storehouse Community Center hosted a historic graduation ceremony on May 18, in the sanctuary of St. Andrew Methodist Church, with special recognition of the first graduates of all six levels of The Academy’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program. These 11 graduates are part of a group of 148 ESL students who received certificates for the completion of an ESL class level. In addition, nine Academy students received their Modern Automotive Service and Repair certificates for completing a six-week course held in partnership with Collin College.

“Today is a historic day for The Academy as we recognize 11 students who have completed their ESL journeys, graduating from all six levels of the program,” said Ligia Urrego, director of The Academy. “Many began their studies with The Academy when it first opened in the summer of 2022. All our ESL students, many of whom work multiple jobs, have demonstrated incredible dedication, coming each Saturday morning for four hours during multiple 12-week course semesters. Today represents extraordinary effort and achievement by each Academy student, and we are so proud of them.”

Following the entrance of the graduates, with the group of 11 donning blue caps and gowns, all participated in the opening hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” led by soloist Camille Skye and organist Scott Scheetz.

The Storehouse CEO Candace Winslow opened with thanksgiving, prayer, and recognition of St. Andrew for utilization of the beautiful space and encouragement of the work of The Storehouse as well as the many donors whose generosity “propels our mission.” She continued by recognizing the staff and volunteers, “the backbone of this program,” and Academy Director Ligia Urrego, “whose passionate leadership and heart for others are paramount to this program’s success.”

“To our volunteer teachers, without you we have no Academy,” added Winslow. “These volunteers give countless hours to make sure our neighbors are cared for in so many ways. Today we celebrate our neighbors and our Academy volunteers.”

Winslow also paid tribute to the late Dr. Linda K. Johnson, the president and CEO of Aspire who passed away in February. Aspire provides curriculum and support to The Academy’s ESL program.

The celebration included a video presentation of a group of the students each sharing one word, which resonated with all graduates, and remarks of what The Academy has meant to them on their journeys: family, wonder, love, affection, hope, and support. Through The Academy, students gain valuable experiences, friendships, and community at The Storehouse.

Following the presentation of certificates, volunteer teacher Jim Hess charged the graduates with words of encouragement.

“This last semester was my fourth time teaching, and I have never done anything more rewarding,” said Jim Hess. “Your dedication, commitment, and smiles every Saturday are so inspiring and make each volunteer excited to teach you. You have faced so many challenges beginning with leaving your home countries to provide a better life for your families. Living in Texas you could have gotten by without learning English, but you faced the challenge and are to be congratulated. We have accomplished so much, including improving your pronunciation, expanding your vocabulary, and mastering challenging English grammar rules, and we could not be prouder of you.”

Hess encouraged the students to “use it or lose it” and practice their English. “Pick a favorite movie, turn on subtitles and watch it over and over, take an easy course at Collin College in English, keep a journal in English and write a couple of sentences each night. Be proud of your accomplishments and come back and help us teach more students!”

Mario Lisena, one of the 11 graduates of all ESL levels and an employee of Storehouse job partner Hilti, where he has worked in the apprentice program since February, provided remarks on behalf of the students. A few highlights are below.

“Today we completed our goal. But the journey is not over. It was a long journey that for some began in May 2022,” said Lisena. “Everything in life requires effort. You cannot wait for God to do all the work, but each person must take on effort to obtain what they are wanting for. Knowledge will become our hope to survive and adapt in this country. Without it we are nothing, and we cannot be a part of the equation. As the Chinese proverb says, ‘Give me a fish, and we will eat today. Teach me how to fish, and we will eat the rest of our lives.’”

When Lisena was a child, his father took him on walks where they observed people manually sweeping the streets and cleaning up waste.

“My father told me that without studies, this would be my job and destiny,” continued Lisena. “This reminder always motivated me to complete my university studies and professional goals. But when I first came to this country, I had to carry out this same type of work against my father’s teachings. But we must always take advantage of opportunities that lie before us and not sit idly by. Maybe we should understand that God sends us to that place to serve. If He sees we are inactive, He will have no reason to use us and enhance our abilities. This motivated me to take the opportunities that The Storehouse offered me, thus managing to obtain a more relevant position. I invite you to follow this path. Thank you, Storehouse and job partners, Lux Ice and Hilti.”

Following special music, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” by Skye and Scheetz, Storehouse board member and longtime volunteer teacher William Urrego directed the students to place their tassels on the left, “where your heart is, and remember your time here” and encouraged them to keep in touch with their Storehouse family as they begin this new chapter in their lives.

# # #

The Storehouse Community Center (formerly The Storehouse of Collin County), is a nonprofit founded in 2009 that provides short-term help and long-term transformation to residents in North Texas through a pathway of programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves around 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, and life skills development. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 149,064 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award, and in September 2023, The Storehouse was named a Dallas Morning News Charity. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

 PHOTOS BY KIM LEESON

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 Today, Hyosung Americas, which has been a proud leader in ATM hardware, software and services in America since they first entered the U.S. market in 1998, expanded its footprint in North Texas with a 125,104-square-foot Distribution Center.

The new production, warehouse and storage facility is located at 4100 Passport Ave. near DFW Airport and is 66% larger than Hyosung’s prior facilities.

 In a special ribbon cutting presentation to Hyosung employees at the new facility, new Hyosung Americas CEO Kunoh Kim expressed the importance this expansion symbolizes.

"Today marks a significant milestone in Hyosung's journey of innovation and growth. With the opening of our expanded facility, we not only double our production capacity but also amplify our commitment to serving our customers with excellence,” Kim said. “This expansion shows our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our global community while reinforcing Hyosung's position as a leader in cutting-edge technology and banking solutions."

Hyosung Americas’ new Distribution Center opened with 60 full-time employees with plans to increase to approximately 100 over the next 12 to 24 months. The facility provides Hyosung with expanded ATM racking and storage, assembly and production as well as a parts distribution facility. These increased storage and production capabilities will improve the customer experience for Hyosung’s partners across the country.

About Hyosung Americas

Hyosung Americas, the world’s leading cash management and payments platform service provider, is the North American subsidiary of South Korea-based Hyosung TNS, Inc. Since entering the North American market in 1998, Hyosung has grown from the largest provider of ATMs in the United States, to offering best-in-class, innovative and transformative technology solutions across the cash management and payments spectrum. Hyosung Americas is headquartered in Irving, Texas, and provides research and development support in its Global Software Center in Dayton, Ohio.