Back to the 80s party includes food and drink deals, costume contest, awesome prizes, and 80s cover bands at all locations for one day only

What’s the big whoop? Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar will be bringing back awesome memories as they celebrate their 40^th celebration on Throwback Thursday, September 28, at its five locations in Dallas, Richardson, Lewisville, and Frisco. The totally tubular 80s party includes food and drink specials (all day) and jamming to 80s cover bands at all locations (from 5pm-9pm). Break out the legwarmers and tease the big hair for a chance to win gnarly prizes including t-shirts, Aw Shucks Gift Cards, and a 40” smart flat screen TV at each location. Don’t have a cow, man, there’s fun for everyone!

The most excellent specials include:

• $19.83 throwback platter that includes 1/2 Lb. Dungeness crab, ½ Lb. shrimp, with sausage, corn, and potatoes
• $19.83 dozen fresh oysters
• $3.83 The Dirty Bob (a special cocktail for ONE DAY only; includes pineapple juice, peach liqueur, Jäegermeister, and a slice of peach served over ice)
• $3.83 margaritas
• $2.83 draft beer
• FREE Slice of key lime pie for those born in 1983 (I.D. required)

What’s in a name? Aw Shucks was founded by two righteous dudes, Bob Peterson and Scott Holyfield. These former executives from America’s most colorful airline, Braniff International, chose the name of “Aw Shucks” because it was just a fun play on words that they felt would work - and it DID! Bob had a favorite seafood concept from the south coast and modeled his beloved Shucks after it. When Bob and Scott were initially developing the Aw Shucks menu in 1983, they offered only a few items: catfish, shrimp, oysters, and all combinations thereof so that there was no more than a total of 9-10 items on the original menu. Bob’s theory was to do it simply and do it awesomely. That’s how Aw Shucks was born!

Since 1983, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar have been the best places in North Texas to veg out and enjoy raw oysters, shrimp, catfish, crab legs, po'boy boy sandwiches, a nice cold beer, and tasty crawfish when in season. With its wicked seafood shack atmosphere, guests are guaranteed to have an outrageous time. For more information on Aw Shucks and Big Shucks, visit awshucksdallas.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and promotions. #shucksdallas

ABOUT PETERSON MANAGEMENT GROUP

Peterson Management Group is a family-owned and operated restaurant management company with 12 restaurants located across North Texas. Founded by Bob Peterson and Scott Holyfield, two guys with larger-than-life personalities, it all started in 1983 with eclectic seafood shack restaurants, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar. They are the best places in North Texas to get raw oysters, shrimp, catfish, crab legs, po'boy boy sandwiches, a nice cold beer, and some tasty crawfish when in season. In addition to Aw Shucks and Big Shucks, Peterson Management Group opened Blue Goose Cantina in 1984, where fantastic made-from-scratch Mexican food, legendary cocktails, top-notch service, a fun atmosphere and a kick-ass attitude come together. The restaurant chain has repeatedly been voted the best in North Texas for its winning combination of food, fun, and signature margaritas. Today, Nick Peterson, son of Bob, leads the family business, serving as its CEO. For more information, visit PetersonManagementGroup.net.

Metrocrest Services Officially Opens New Home in Heart of Metrocrest Community to Envelop Clients in Hope, Dignity and Respect

Welcome home, Metrocrest Services! Local non-profit answers unprecedented need with new facility that provides wrap-around services to help people on the path to self-sufficiency.

Friends and supporters gathered today for a housewarming party unlike any other, a celebration of the new home of Metrocrest Services at 1145 North Josey Lane in Carrollton, in the heart of the Metrocrest community, which comprises the areas of Carrollton, Addison, Farmers Branch, Coppell, and areas of Dallas.

“The collective effort of so many in the community – volunteers, donors, staff and city officials – is not only the reason we were able to build and open this new facility, but it’s also the reason this organization has been able to serve our clients for more than five decades,” said Tracy Eubanks, CEO of Metrocrest Services. “Their support is the reason we can help people on the path to self-sufficiency.”

Putting People on the Path to Self-sufficiency

Inside the new home of Metrocrest Services, its clients find a modern, spacious place to access the services they need, all delivered with dignity and respect.  The new home brings all of the organization’s services under one roof, creating convenient access for clients and volunteers alike with the largest expansion the non-profit has had in its 50-year history. 

Designed by Gensler and built by Talley Riggins Construction Group, the 48,000-square-foot facility on 4.6 acres in Carrollton is a welcoming hub for all of Metrocrest Services’ daily operations, including providing access to nutritious food, workforce development and financial literacy, rent and utility assistance, senior services and other programs for individuals, families and seniors that lead to self-sufficiency and foster independence. The Ratliff Group served as construction manager and owner’s representative for the new facility.

The campus also includes shared space for complementary service providers to support clients from one central location and a volunteer center for greater opportunities for community engagement. 

Feeding the Need

More than 25 percent of the new facility is dedicated to the Metrocrest Services Food Pantry, an on-site warehouse, a Volunteer Center to support pantry operations and a Teaching Kitchen. This new space doubles the former facility’s space for dry and cold storage, ensuring the Food Pantry will stay stocked with nutritious food throughout the day. 

Clients may easily access the Food Pantry through a dedicated entrance, grab a grocery cart, and shop the shelves of this pantry as if it were a neighborhood grocery store. Bright lights and cheerful pictures adorn the walls of the two-story facility, where clients are assisted by staff and volunteers dedicated to creating a good experience with education and support. 

Outside, a Teaching Garden on the campus empowers clients to learn more about growing and harvesting fresh fruit and an indoor Teaching Kitchen is a fun place for workshops on healthy food preparation.

An Increased Need

The need today is greater than ever, and Metrocrest Services is rising to the challenges while planning well for the future ahead. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, prior to the deadly winter storm and the economic hardships many have endured, the Metrocrest community has experienced a staggering need for social services. 

Individuals, local businesses and large corporations have come together to fund $18 million toward the Building Our Future capital campaign to build the new headquarters. The North Texas Food Bank, Southwest Airlines, Sam Pack, Vari and Container Store are some of the many names seen in the new facility, highlighting the deep community support offered to the work of Metrocrest Services.

To help stock the pantry’s new shelves, provide additional support to North Texans in need, and provide needed items for the new facility, find the Metrocrest Services Amazon Wish List at https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/2487GHLC1FTHD. 

Metrocrest Services, Inc., is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to providing programs for individuals, families and seniors that lead to self-sufficiency and foster independence. Programs include rent and utility bill assistance, financial and budgeting assistance, food pantry, employment coaching and transportation, minor home repairs and home-delivered meals to benefit seniors. Additionally, Metrocrest provides programs focused on children including holiday gifts and summer food. For more information, visit www.metrocrestservices.org.

Lyda Hill Philanthropies awards grant to expand STEM pathways at TWU

Collaboration with Dallas College, North Central Texas College, Tarrant County College will encourage students to pursue four-year STEM degrees.

Texas Woman’s University has received a grant from Dallas-based Lyda Hill Philanthropies to create additional pathways for community college students to receive four-year STEM degrees, an effort that aims to better position the Metroplex for job growth in the life sciences and other STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields by increasing the number of college-educated STEM workers ? a move critical to the region’s economic success.

“Lyda Hill Philanthropies is committed to supporting advancements in science and helping students further their education in STEM is key," said Lyda Hill, entrepreneur and founder of the organization. "We are proud to work with Texas Woman’s University, Dallas College, North Central Texas College and Tarrant County College in this effort and look forward to seeing the success these talented students have in their careers in STEM."

“This project will give community college students a chance to work with mentors and graduate students in research laboratories at TWU,” said Juliet V. Spencer, head of the School of the Sciences at TWU, and one of five TWU professors and administrators leading the project. “Studies demonstrate that getting students into research labs and working with faculty on STEM research makes it more likely that they will want to continue their STEM educations, either at the bachelor’s level or in graduate school.”

The gift will fund one-day experiential STEM learning opportunities for 100 community college students from Dallas College, North Central Texas College and Tarrant County College, and paid, two-week internships for 10 students.

Earlier this year, TWU launched a smaller pilot project with Dallas College in which 24 students participated in one-day experiential STEM learning opportunities, including a site visit to the STEM labs on the TWU Denton campus, where they learned about STEM research. Two of the participants were selected for two-week internships on campus this summer.

Based on the success of the program, Texas Woman’s has now planned an expanded project for 2024 involving Dallas College, North Central Texas College and Tarrant County College.

The expanded project will involve 100 students spending a day at TWU. Of the 100 students, 10 will be offered paid two-week internships on the TWU campus, where they will eventually present their research. Disciplines supported by the project include biology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, computer sciences and mathematics.

“Dallas College is thrilled to be partnering with TWU and grateful to Lyda Hill Philanthropies for their support to expand the program. Experiential learning, particularly undergraduate research, provides students with unique opportunities that increase their retention and completion of a STEM credential and provides critical skill building that will help them when they enter the STEM workforce,” said Jason Treadway, director of the STEM Institute at Dallas College.

The initiative will also include robust, multi-year tracking of where participants complete their college educations, as well as scholarship support for at least seven program participants who transfer to TWU to complete their undergraduate STEM degrees. TWU’s goal is to use data from the pilot project to help it scale the program across Texas in subsequent years.

“TWU has developed outstanding relationships with local community colleges over the years, and we are proud to be able to collaborate with three of them to increase an interest in four-year STEM education,” said Texas Woman’s Chancellor Carine M. Feyten. “We are honored that Lyda Hill Philanthropies, a national leader in STEM funding, has chosen to support this groundbreaking project.”

“North Central Texas College is excited to build upon years of successful partnership with Texas Woman’s University to provide this opportunity for our students to explore careers in the fast-growing STEM fields,” said Brent Wallace, chancellor of North Central Texas College.

The project aligns with TWU’s current strategic plan, which seeks to double the number of STEM opportunities on campus as a top priority. With the most diverse student body among Texas public universities, as well as a student body that is 89 percent women, TWU is strongly positioned to support students from groups underrepresented in science who wish to pursue STEM careers.

“This is a great opportunity for our students at Tarrant County College. We are looking forward to working with TWU as we expose Tarrant County College students to innovative research experiences in STEM,” said Stephen Jones, dean of mathematics, natural sciences and kinesiology at Tarrant County College.

About TWU:

Texas Woman’s, the nation’s largest woman-focused university, is committed to transformational learning, leadership development, service, discovery, and health and wellbeing in an inclusive environment. The university has built a reputation on its contributions in nursing, education, the healthcare professions, the arts and sciences, and business. For more information, visit twu.edu.

About Lyda Hill Philanthropies:

Lyda Hill Philanthropies encompasses the charitable giving for founder Lyda Hill and includes her foundation and personal philanthropy. Our organization is committed to funding transformational advances in science and nature, empowering nonprofit organizations and improving the Texas and Colorado communities. Because Miss Hill has a fervent belief that “science is the answer” to many of life’s most challenging issues, she has chosen to donate the entirety of her estate to philanthropy and scientific research. For more details visit lydahillphilanthropies.org.

Members of the Dallas-based Doswell Foundation board formally signed an agreement with the Texas Woman’s University System Board of Regents on Aug. 11, marking the foundation’s historic $15 million gift to TWU establishing the Doswell School of Aeronautical Sciences. The school aims to address a nationwide pilot shortage and increase the number of women commercial pilots. Doswell Foundation CEO and Chairman Beverly Fricke and foundation board members celebrated the partnership a day earlier at a special dinner with Board of Regents Chair Stacie McDavid and fellow regents. During the regents’ board meeting, the foundation presented Texas Woman’s Chancellor Carine Feyten with an initial payment of $1 million. The aeronautical sciences program is expected to begin enrolling students in August 2024. The Doswell Foundation and the late philanthropist Florence Doswell have been longtime supporters of TWU's College of Nursing.

About Texas Woman’s University

Texas Woman’s University is the nation’s largest woman-focused institution. In 2021, total student enrollment from its campuses in Denton, Dallas and Houston exceeded 16,300.

Texas Woman’s is recognized for its contributions and leadership in the health sciences, education, business, arts and sciences. The university offers student support, small class sizes and campus esthetics more typically found at a private university. The university’s Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership focuses on increasing opportunities for women in business, politics and public policy and student leadership.

Male students have been admitted to the university’s graduate programs since 1972 and undergraduate programs since 1994. Texas Woman’s prides itself on providing students with a well-rounded education predicated on experiential learning, service, health and well-being, and integrity.

Respect for diversity in all dimensions (U.S. News & World Report ranked the university tied for fourth in the nation for diversity in 2021) and a safe campus environment (Texas Woman’s is among the safest campuses in the nation) are among the hallmarks of a TWU education. The university consistently is recognized as Military Friendly. 

Committed to transformational learning, discovery and service in an inclusive environment that embraces diversity, Texas Woman’s inspires excellence and a pioneering spirit. For more information, visit twu.edu.

As the summer break comes to an end, students around the world are preparing to head back to school. While this transition marks a return to academic learning and social interactions, it also presents a crucial opportunity to address and prioritize children's mental health. Beyond academic achievements, a focus on emotional well-being within the school environment can significantly impact a child's overall development, enabling them to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

The Importance of Emotional Well-being in Education

Emotional well-being is an integral aspect of a child's growth and plays a vital role in shaping their learning experiences. When children feel safe, supported, and emotionally secure in the school environment, they are more likely to engage actively in their studies and form positive relationships with peers and educators. Moreover, promoting emotional health can foster a positive school culture, where students feel valued, respected, and empowered to express themselves.

Creating a Safe and Inclusive Learning Space

To enhance children's emotional well-being in schools, educators and administrators must prioritize creating a safe and inclusive learning space. This involves establishing clear expectations for behavior, implementing anti-bullying policies, and providing training for teachers on recognizing and addressing emotional struggles in students. By nurturing a sense of belonging and safety within the school community, children are more likely to develop the confidence to explore their academic potential and build meaningful connections with others.

Promoting Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs have gained recognition for their positive impact on students' mental health and academic performance. These programs teach essential life skills such as self-awareness, empathy, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution. By incorporating SEL into the curriculum, schools can equip students with the tools they need to cope with stress, manage emotions, and navigate social situations effectively. Moreover, SEL fosters empathy and understanding among students, reducing the incidence of bullying and promoting a more supportive environment. 

Encouraging Physical Activity and Play

Physical activity and play are vital components of a child's overall well-being. Encouraging regular exercise, both in physical education classes and during breaks, can have a profound effect on children's mental health. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, promoting positive emotions and reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, unstructured playtime fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and emotional expression, allowing children to decompress and recharge during their busy school day.

Identifying and Supporting Students' Emotional Needs

Every child is unique, and their emotional needs can vary greatly. Teachers and school staff play a crucial role in identifying students who may be struggling emotionally and providing appropriate support. Implementing regular check-ins with students, individualized counseling sessions, or peer support programs can offer a safe space for students to express their feelings and receive guidance. By taking a proactive approach to emotional support, schools can address issues early on, preventing them from escalating into more significant challenges.

Engaging Parents and Guardians

Parents and guardians are essential partners in nurturing children's emotional well-being. Schools can facilitate this partnership by engaging parents in their child's education and emotional development. Regular parent-teacher conferences, workshops on emotional health, and open communication channels can help parents better understand their child's needs and contribute positively to their well-being both at home and in school.

As children head back to school, it is crucial to recognize that their mental health and emotional well-being are fundamental to their success as learners and individuals. By creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment, promoting social and emotional learning, encouraging physical activity and play, and actively addressing students' emotional needs, schools can play a pivotal role in nurturing emotionally resilient and confident young individuals who can thrive academically and in life. Ultimately, by prioritizing children's mental health, we can empower the next generation to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling and successful lives.

To help schools and organizations serving youth and their families address mental health, NAMI North Texas, a chartered affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), offers a no-cost program called Ending the Silence. It is a powerful tool in raising awareness, improving understanding and reducing stigma. Ending the Silence delivers a message of hope and recovery, helping to end stigma and empower safe, open communication around mental health conditions. For middle school, high school and college/university students, there is NAMI On Campus, which are student-led clubs that raise mental health awareness and reduce stigma on high school and college campuses through peer-led activities, education, and events. NAMI On Campus connects students with their local community and supports them in creating a culture free of judgment and accepting of reaching out for help; a more aware and mental health-supportive school culture. If your school or university would like to learn more about our programs, contact Tiffany Gomez at TiffanyG@NAMINorthTexas.org or call 214-341-7133.

Founded in 1982, NAMI North Texas, a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible nonprofit organization, advocates for equitable access to mental health services, treatment, supports and research and is steadfast in its commitment to raise awareness and build a community of hope for all of those in need. Serving Dallas, Collin, Denton, and Rockwall counties, NAMI North Texas provides essential and free education, advocacy and support group programs. For more information, visit www.naminorthtexas.org.