From left, Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development for The Colony Economic Development Corporation; Tamara Price, General Manager of Homewood Suites; and Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager of The Colony Economic Development Corporation.
From left, Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development for The Colony Economic Development Corporation; Tamara Price, General Manager of Homewood Suites; and Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager of The Colony Economic Development Corporation.

From left, Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development for The Colony Economic Development Corporation; Tamara Price, General Manager of Homewood Suites; and Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager of The Colony Economic Development Corporation.

Homewood Suites located in the heart of Grandscape is the latest recipient of a Business Improvement Grant (BIG) from the Colony Economic Development Corporation.

Managed by Tamara Price, Homewood Suites provides a “home away from home” for both corporate and leisure travelers with stainless steel appliances, full-size refrigerators and pull-out sofas in every room.

The hotel features an outdoor heated pool, gas fire pits and indoor fireplace in its spacious and luxurious lodge. The state-of-the-art fitness center has a Peloton bike, there is an onsite laundry facility, and pets are welcome.

Guests enjoy walking to all that Grandscape has to officer including unique shopping and multiple restaurants and entertainment venues.

Find out more information and make reservations at Hilton.com by searching Homewood Suites by Hilton- Dallas The Colony

BIG was established in 2018 to help local businesses improve the exterior of their facilities by offering annual matching grants of up to $2,500 for signage, facade, landscaping and other visual upgrade projects. Businesses can receive one grant per year.

From left, Julia Koroleva and Tamara Price of Homewood Suites.

From left, Julia Koroleva and Tamara Price of Homewood Suites.

The Colony Animal Clinic receiving the BIG grant.
The Colony Animal Clinic receiving the BIG grant.

Above from left, Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager, and Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development for The Colony Economic Development Corporation with Dr. Hari of The Colony Animal Clinic.

The Colony Economic Development Corporation concluded its 25th Anniversary year by awarding its Business Improvement Grant (BIG) to four local businesses including The Colony Animal Clinic in December.

Led by Dr. Hari and Dr. Sharon Wild, The Colony Animal Clinic is dedicated to professional and compassionate full-service veterinary.

Dr. Hari has over 15 years of experience in general practice and emergency medicine. Though he enjoys every aspect of veterinary medicine, Dr. Hari is a strong advocate for preventative care. He emphasizes tailoring your pet’s care to their individual needs and your personal expectations.

Outside of work, Dr. Hari is a devoted husband and father of two children. He is a nature lover who enjoys spending time outdoors.

Dr. Sharon Wild graduated from Louisiana State University, School of Veterinary Medicine in 1981. She has been associated with The Colony Animal Clinic since 1994. Dr. Wild offers an alternative and addendum to conventional veterinary medicine with Traditional Chinese Medicine (Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine).

The Colony Animal Clinic is located at 5906 Paige Road. Find out more information about their services, including walk-in emergencies, and make an appointment at www.thecolonyanimalclinic.com.

BIG was established in 2018 to help local businesses improve the exterior of their facilities by offering annual matching grants of up to $2,500 for signage, facade, landscaping and other visual upgrade projects. Businesses can receive one grant per year.

Learn more about the BIG grant program.

The Colony Animal Clinic receiving the BIG grant.

Above from left, Trish Valencia, Nanette Yahne and Dr. Hari of The Colony Animal Clinic.

Above: From left, Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development for The Colony Economic Development Corporation; Chef Golda Sumpon; Keo Sumpon; and Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager, The Colony Economic Development Corporation.
Above: From left, Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development for The Colony Economic Development Corporation; Chef Golda Sumpon; Keo Sumpon; and Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager, The Colony Economic Development Corporation.

Above – From left, Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development for The Colony Economic Development Corporation; Chef Golda Sumpon; Keo Sumpon; and Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager, The Colony Economic Development Corporation.

The Colony Economic Development Corporation concluded its 25th Anniversary year in December by supporting several local small businesses, including Ollio Patisserie.

Ollio Patisserie is owned and operated at 7552 Main St. by Chef Golda Sumpon, who spun a 20-year, globe-trotting career in IT into her real passion. Always a foodie at heart, Chef Sumpon was able to experience culinary traditions from around the world during these travels.

Chef Sumpon learned not only how to prepare food, but also the science behind food that comes together with many ingredients. Thus, the name “Ollio”, which means “a dish of many ingredients”.

Chef Sumpon left the IT industry to pursue a formal education in culinary arts, pastry arts and hospitality management. It was clearly the right move as she and her patisserie have been featured in many magazines and television shows as they treat customers from near and far to scrumptious creations that are made with the purest ingredients.

“There is only one Ollio in Texas, and it is right here in The Colony,” said Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development. “We are so pleased to support Chef Sumpon in expanding production capabilities and her amazing establishment.”

Learn more about  Ollio Patisserie of The Colony at olliopatisserie.com.

Chef Golda Sumpon and her team at Ollio Patisserie.

Above: Chef Golda Sumpon and her team at Ollio Patisserie.

From left, Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager, and Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development for The Colony Economic Development Corporation with Whitney Adams, co-owner of Simply Unwine.

From left, Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager, and Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development for The Colony Economic Development Corporation with Whitney Adams, co-owner of Simply Unwine.

The Colony Economic Development Corporation concluded its 25th Anniversary year by awarding its Business Improvement Grant (BIG) to four local businesses including Simply Unwine in December 2023.

Founded in 2022 by Whitney Adams and Aairika Kelly, Simply Unwine is not just a wine bar and restaurant—it’s a concept born from the shared desire to decompress and unwind,” explains Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager of The Colony EDC.

“Whitney and Aairika, who regularly met to relax at various restaurants and bars, envisioned creating a space where people could hang out and unwind after a long day. Turning this vision into reality, they decided to carve a niche by spotlighting minority-owned beverage brands and businesses.”

“Since becoming part of The Colony community, Simply Unwine has experienced overwhelming support, said Whitney.  “Thanks to this grant, we’ve been able to acquire the exterior sign crucial for our establishment.”

“We are deeply grateful for this assistance and thrilled to offer the community a new haven for relaxation, featuring an array of exciting minority-owned wines,” said Aairika.

Simply Unwine is located at 5701 SH 121, Suite 110. Watch for the Grand Opening announcement and other updates at simplyunwinetx.com.

BIG was established in 2018 to help local businesses improve the exterior of their facilities by offering annual matching grants of up to $2,500 for signage, facade, landscaping and other visual upgrade projects. Businesses can receive one grant per year.

“The program has been so successful with many businesses applying for assistance on an annual basis that The Colony EDC Board of Directors raised the original grant ceiling from $1,000 to $2,500,” said Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development. “These consistent investments not only benefit the businesses, but the quality of our entire community.”

 

Chiroway BIG Grant

Chiroway BIG Grant

From left, Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager, and Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development for The Colony Economic Development Corporation with Dr. J.R. (David) Fritsch of ChiroWay Chiropractic.

The Colony Economic Development Corporation finished out its 25th Anniversary year by presenting its Business Improvement Grant (BIG) to four local businesses including ChiroWay Chiropractic of The Colony.

BIG was established in 2018 to help local businesses improve the exterior of their facilities by offering annual matching grants of up to $2,500 for signage, facade, landscaping and other visual upgrade projects. Businesses can receive one grant per year.

“The program has been so successful with many businesses applying for assistance on an annual basis that The Colony EDC Board of Directors raised the original grant ceiling from $1,000 to $2,500,” said Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development. “These consistent investments not only benefit the businesses, but the quality of our entire community.”

Dr. J.R. (David) Fritsch is the owner and Chiropractor at ChiroWay Chiropractic, located at 5000 Main St in Suite 203.

“Our mission is to provide chiropractic care to infants, children and adults,” says Dr. Fritsch, who is a resident and active member of The Colony community. He currently serves as a mentor at The Colony High School and volunteers his services for multiple non-profits.

“Since opening ChiroWay Chiropractic, we realized how amazing the community is and we love serving in all ways,” he said.

Dr. Fritsch is also proud to share his love for his wife and three sons, and enjoys lifting, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and the outdoors. He is currently working on his Master’s in Clinical Neuroscience and is always studying how to be the best possible Chiropractor, husband, father and human overall.

After earning his Master’s degree, Dr. Fritsch will go on to earn his diplomate in Philosophic Chiropractic Standards (DPhCS).

“Learning is a lifelong process,” he said.

Learn more about  ChiroWay Chiropractic of The Colony and The BIG grant program.

Aerial view of Grandscape In The Colony

The Colony EDC is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2023.

It’s been an exciting journey full of progress, thanks to the hard work and dedication of so many people in our community. We are pleased to present this video highlighting the accomplishments and the positive impact economic growth has had upon our City.

The Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) has presented The Colony Economic Development Corporation (EDC) with its annual Economic Excellence Recognition Award for 2022. The awards were presented February 24 during the TEDC’s 2023 Legislative Conference in Austin.

This is the 15th consecutive year that The Colony EDC has achieved the award. Only 54 other Texas economic development organizations were recognized for 2022.

The Economic Excellence Recognition program provides recognition to economic development organizations that meet a desired threshold of professionalism. Recipients qualify for recognition based on training taken by their governing board/council as well as the economic development director and professional staff. Certifications, professional memberships and activities, and organizational effectiveness of the economic development staff also contribute to the standards for qualification.

“Many have worked hard to make The Colony a Texas Destination for distinctive commercial and residential development, including city administration, elected and appointed officials, and the economic development staff” said Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development.  “This award confirms a collective commitment to excellence, and I thank and congratulate each member of our team for their success.”

The Texas Economic Development Council, established in 1961, is an Austin-based, statewide, non-profit professional association, dedicated to the development of economic and employment opportunities in Texas. The TEDC provides information, educational and legislative services to nearly 950 members. Its objective is to support the economic growth of Texas and develop strategies that promote a positive business climate in the state.

Diane Lemmons CEDA 2022
Diane Lemmons CEDA 2022

Diane Lemmons, Business Retention and Expansion Manager, displays the 2022 Community Economic Development Merit Recognition Award The Colony Economic Development Corporation received last month from the Texas Economic Development Corporation.

The Colony Economic Development Corporation (EDC) was recognized by the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) Community Economic Development Award (CEDA) program in recognition of its exceptional contribution toward the economic vitality of the community and the state of Texas.

The CEDA awards including the Merit Award received by The Colony EDC were presented at the TEDC’s 2022 Annual Conference on Thursday, October 20 in San Antonio.

“Our CEDA program is one of the ways in which our organization honors the excellent work done by our communities, their leaders, and their economic development professionals,” noted Wesley Burnett, 2022 Board Chair of TEDC.

The awards committee received 24 applications this year. Nominees were judged on five criteria: innovativeness, transferability, community commitment and leverage, measured objectives, and secondary benefits.  The Colony was one of only four cities to receive a 2022 Merit Award in the population category of 20,001 to 50,000.

The Colony EDC’s award submission was the Business Improvement Grant (BIG) Program, which was established in 2018 to help the city’s smaller businesses upgrade their signage, façade, landscaping, parking lots and other items with a matching grant of up to $1,000 per project.  Because of the success of the program, The Colony EDC’s Board of Directors increased the amount to $2,500 per project for the current fiscal year of 2022-2023.

“A new sign can be as much as $5,000, which is a significant investment for a small business,” said Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development. “A participating business can now obtain that sign for $2,500 with our contribution of $2,500.”

“We are proud that The Colony has once again been recognized for one of its programs,” said Richard Boyer, Mayor of The Colony. “Our economic development team, which includes City administration, City Council, and the Economic Development Board and staff, works hard to ensure the continued economic vitality of the community, and we are grateful.”

The TEDC provides information, education and legislative services to its members to foster the expansion of existing businesses, the location of new firms and the development of strategies that promote a positive business climate in Texas. With 930 members, the TEDC is the largest state economic development association in the nation.

Pictured above: The Colony EDC team presents Dr. Oteo a BIG grant. From left are Diane Lemmons, IOM, Business Retention and Expansion Manager; Amber Downing, Executive Administrative Assistant; Dr. Oteo; and Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development.

The Colony Economic Development Corporation has awarded Stonebridge Chiropractic a grant through its Business Improvement Grant (BIG) program to improve the practice’s exterior lighting in accordance with City ordinances.

BIG was established in 2018 to help local businesses improve the exterior of their facilities by offering annual matching grants of up to $2,500 for signage, facade, landscaping and other visual upgrade projects. Businesses can receive one grant per year.

“The program has been so successful with many businesses applying for assistance on an annual basis that The Colony EDC Board of Directors recently raised the original grant ceiling from $1,000 to $2,500,” said Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development. “These consistent investments not only benefit the businesses, but the quality of our entire community.”

Pictured above: Dr. Oteo and a few of his team members at Stonebridge Chiropractic.

The most recent grant recipient, Stonebridge Chiropractic was founded in 2016 by Dr. Andrew Oteo. Stonebridge Health is now one of the premiere healthcare facilities in The Colony that has helped thousands of patients recover from injuries and enjoy a better quality of life through chiropractic, physical therapy and other medical services.

“Along with the growth in services, Stonebridge Health has gone through a drastic exterior and interior remodel over the past two years to create a more welcoming atmosphere for patients and an elevated functional environment for our clinical team,” said Dr. Oteo.

Pictured above: Stonebridge Chiropractic before and after recent exterior improvements supported by The Colony EDC’s BIG grant program.

“We are thrilled to receive the BIG grant and partner with The Colony EDC to continue investing in a high-quality facility and our ability to serve the community with world-class services,” he said.

Learn more:

We are pleased to announce that The Colony Economic Development Corporation received the Texas Economic Development Council’s award for Excellence in Economic Development for 2021 during the Winter Conference held this month in Sugarland.

This is the 14th consecutive year we have earned the award, which honors an outstanding commitment to excellence in training, professional memberships and activities and effectiveness in promoting our community. Only 57 cities in Texas received the award for 2021, and we are very proud to be in such good company!

Grandscape Aerial Image

Grandscape now holds the distinction of being the “World’s Most Innovative Retail and Entertainment Project”.

This award is presented annually by Retail and Leisure International, which is the world’s only global magazine for the retail and leisure industry. The Global RLI Awards were presented in London last month, and the competition was fierce with other category winners and nominees representing outstanding projects in Asia, the United Kingdom, UAE, Italy and Slovenia. Jeff Lind, President of Grandscape, accepted the award in London, and we congratulate him and the entire team responsible for making the vision of Grandscape a reality right here in The Colony, a Texas Destination for Commercial Development!

Read more here.

The Colony Economic Development Corporation was named a finalist for the 2021 Workforce Excellence Award from the Texas Economic Development Council for its workforce initiatives implemented during the Covid-19 Pandemic.

The Colony EDC placed second in the population category of 40,000 to 100,000 of the 850 economic development member organization.

“The Workforce Excellence Award program recognizes exceptional contributions by a Texas community or region that has implemented successful workforce initiatives. Award criteria includes innovativeness, transferability, community commitment and leverage, measured objectives, and secondary benefits,” noted Carlton Schwab, President/CEO of the TEDC.

In the Spring of 2020, The Colony EDC quickly created and activated a Small Business Support Grant program to help local businesses financially impacted by the State mandated shut-down and following service limitations. The Colony EDC also helped businesses connect with county, state and federal COVID-19 grant opportunities and continues to do so.

“This award recognizes the outstanding work being done in Texas communities in the area of workforce development,” said Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development of The Colony EDC..

“We are honored that our team, which includes City administration, elected and appointed officials, and the Economic Development staff, has achieved this distinction for its hard work to assist our business stakeholders during a challenging year.”

“In addition to being able help bridge the gap between the onset of the pandemic to the availability of state and federal assistance, we had the opportunity to develop stronger relationships and lines of communication with our businesses,” said Samford. “It is a positive outcome of the program that we look forward to building upon for the benefit of our businesses, and our community.

The Colony Mayor Joe McCourry has joined mayors across the country in recognizing the importance of economic development in their communities by proclaiming May 9–15 as “National Economic Development Week”.

“The hard work of The Colony Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to facilitate high-quality commercial growth has retained and created employment opportunities, increased community wealth, and provided a stable tax base in our city,” said Mayor McCourry, as he issued the proclamation during the May 4 City Council meeting.

From attracting destination development such as Grandscape to assisting local independent entrepreneurs, Mayor McCourry stated that the results of The Colony’s proactive economic development strategies are evident citywide, including its COVID-19 response.

In the Spring of 2020, The Colony EDC quickly created and activated a Small Business Support Grant program to help local businesses financially impacted by the State mandated shut-down and following service limitations. The Colony EDC also helped businesses connect with county, state and federal COVID-19 grant opportunities and continues to do so.

“We are grateful for the support of our EDC Board and City Council for the commitment and sense of responsibility to our business community that we all share,” said Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development of The Colony EDC.

“We look forward to continuing a united effort to ensure a strong business base today, while encouraging the next generation of businesses that will further enhance our community’s prosperity and quality of life.”

The Colony EDC is an active member of the International Economic Development Council, which spearheads the National Economic Development Week campaign annually.

This article is featured in The Colony Courier-Leader

The Colony EDC received the 2020 Economic Excellence Award from the Texas Economic Development Council for the 13th consecutive year during the TEDC Winter Conference held virtually February 22-26.

The Colony is one of only 51 organizations statewide to earn this honor this year.

“The TEDC’s Economic Excellence Recognition program is one of the ways in which our organization honors the outstanding commitment to excellence of our communities and regions, their leaders, and their economic development professionals have toward the professionalization of their economic development efforts,” noted Carlton Schwab, President/CEO of the TEDC.”

According to TEDC, recipients qualify for recognition based on training taken by their governing board/council as well as the economic development director and professional staff. Certifications, professional memberships and activities, and organizational effectiveness of the economic development staff also contribute to the standards for qualification.

“This award recognizes the expertise and dedication of many in our City who have worked hard to make The Colony a Texas Destination for exceptional commercial and residential development,” said The Colony Mayor Joe McCourry.  “This highly experienced team includes our City administration, elected and appointed officials, and Economic Development staff, and we thank and congratulate each member for their success.”

The Texas Economic Development Council, established in 1961, is an Austin-based, statewide, non-profit professional association, dedicated to the development of economic and employment opportunities in Texas. The TEDC provides information, educational and legislative services to nearly 850 members. Its objective is to support the economic growth of Texas and develop strategies that promote a positive business climate in the state.

The Texas Woman’s University (TWU) is offering a program to assist Texas, woman-owned businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19. Eligible businesses that meet the specified conditions can apply for grants totaling $10,000.

Learn more about TWU’s AssistHer Emergency Relief Grant.

Governor Abbott has announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has now granted Texas’ Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) assistance declaration, making loans available statewide to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations to help alleviate economic injury caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Next Steps: Small businesses who believe they may be eligible for an SBA EIDL should visit the SBA’s website where they can directly apply for assistance. The online application is the fastest method to receive a decision about loan eligibility.

For additional information on Texas business-related COVID-19 resources, including a list of required documentation for the SBA Loan process, visit the Texas Gov. website.

Dear Business Partner –

On behalf of The Colony Economic Development Corporation, I wish to assure you that nothing is more important than the health and safety of our residents and businesses. We have been closely monitoring developments regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) for several weeks, and we share your concerns.  It has been our intent to keep you informed of vital information to help your business, starting with our presentation to the Chamber on Emergency Preparedness last year.  Drawing from the Business Continuity presentation/plan, we have created a Business Retention Coronavirus Recovery Checklist (attached) which will help with guidelines for the immediate actions a local business should take during this time.

In addition to the immediate steps on the attached checklist, I wanted to provide some information to businesses, specifically on the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance Loan program.

Here is the link to the SBA press release outlining the process for accessing the relief funding loans:

SBA Disaster Assistance Loans for Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19

One criterion for qualifying is being in a disaster-designated area by the SBA (see bullet below).   Texas is currently not on the list.

  • Any such Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance declaration issued by the SBA makes loans available to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations in designated areas of a state or territory to help alleviate economic injury caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

In order to get an area declared as eligible, the State has to receive five SBA validated Economic Injury Worksheets, and then the Governor may request the Economic Injury Disaster Declaration. Denton County will need to submit at least one valid Economic Injury Worksheet in order to be included on the declaration.

The process is outlined by the Texas Department of Emergency Management (TDEM) link:

Use this link https://tdem.texas.gov/covid-19 for more detailed information and to fill out the required form (Economic Injury Worksheet) for submission.  It is very important that the “Estimated Adverse Economic Impact” section of the form be completed in its entirety.  The “brief explanation” field should also include comments that state “the economic impact is directly related to COVID-19.”

You may find additional information at the U.S. Small Business Administration’s website listed below:

https://www.sba.gov/disaster

Please forward this information to anyone you feel appropriate.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Diane Lemmons, Business Retention & Expansion Manager, dlemmons@thecolonytx.org , 972-624-3111.

You can download the Business Retention Coronavirus Disaster Recovery Checklist here (229k pdf)

Best Regards,

Keri Samford
Executive Director of Development

The Colony EDC received the 2019 Economic Excellence Award from the Texas Economic Development Council for the 12th consecutive year during the TEDC Winter Conference held February 19-21 in College Station.

The Colony is one of only 53 organizations statewide to earn this honor this year.

“The Economic Excellence Recognition program provides recognition to economic development organizations that exemplify a high threshold of professionalism,” said Carlton Schwab, President/CEO of the TEDC, during the awards presentation program.

According to TEDC, recipients qualify for recognition based on training taken by their governing board/council as well as the economic development director and professional staff. Certifications, professional memberships and activities, and organizational effectiveness of the economic development staff also contribute to the standards for qualification.

“This award recognizes the expertise and dedication of many in our City who have worked hard to make The Colony a Texas Destination for exceptional commercial and residential development,” said The Colony Mayor Joe McCourry.  “This highly experienced team includes our City administration, elected and appointed officials, and Economic Development staff, and we thank and congratulate each member for their success.”

The Texas Economic Development Council, established in 1961, is an Austin-based, statewide, non-profit professional association, dedicated to the development of economic and employment opportunities in Texas. The TEDC provides information, educational and legislative services to nearly 850 members. Its objective is to support the economic growth of Texas and develop strategies that promote a positive business climate in the state.

Time flies, especially when you talk about the dramatic and exciting progress being made at Grandscape on a daily basis!

While this aerial tour of Grandscape was produced not-so-very-long ago, the landscape of the development along SH 121 in The Colony already looks different. So be sure to take our aerial flight and also check out updates on openings this spring at www.grandscape.com.

Grandscape, which has been in the works since the 2011 announcement of its first anchor, Nebraska Furniture Mart, is spread across 433 acres and will have over 3 million square feet of retail, entertainment, dining, residential and office.

With such attractions as Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, featuring three indoor go-cart tracks, bowling, arcade games and more, a luxury movie-going experience at Galaxy Theatres and the world’s largest all-sports store, SCHEELS, visitors will have hundreds of options to experience and explore.

Grandscape has also carefully designed its spaces to feel warm and inviting, featuring pocket parks, water features, lush landscaping, living rooms with soft seating and fireplaces, charging stations, free wifi, and more. This pedestrian-friendly center has a fountain that turns into a fully immersive audio-visual light show in the evenings, interactive digital art and events scheduled throughout the week.

Also, under construction is Live Grandscape, a luxury high-rise residential tower.  Scheduled to open in 2021 with 345 units, there will be such amenities as a dog park, fitness center & classes, infinity pools, a golf simulator, business center and more.

Grandscape is truly a Texas destination where people of all ages will have a great experience and want to stay all day! We are so proud of this project and the opportunity to be involved in bringing a world-class development to our hometown.

Did you know that we have our own piece of the hill country in Austin Ranch, where 1,900 acres of picturesque, rolling hills present a fabulous place to live, work and play?

This master-planned community has corporate campuses, single family homes, and luxury townhome and apartments boasting resort-like amenities including eight pools, 18 parks, hiking and biking trails, fitness centers and onsite retail and restaurants.

A favorite Austin Ranch watering hole for both our two-legged and four-legged friends is The Shacks, a super cool venue with six small restaurants sharing a large open-air patio overlooking a one-acre dog park shaded by huge Oak trees.

But, that’s only the beginning in this walkable community that has everything from sand volleyball courts to salons and even doggy day care. You can check it out for yourself, here!

We look forward to continued success in The Colony with a world class development like Austin Ranch.

There’s nothing like a bird’s eye view of some of the developments and amenities that make The Colony a Texas Destination!

You can take a flyover of Cascades at The Colony, a 100-acre master planned, mixed-use development located along SH 121 that offers easy access to major thoroughfares connecting DFW.

In addition to office and light industrial space is a conference center and the Spanish-inspired Chapel at Ana Villa, a gorgeous wedding venue that accommodates 350 guests. Within walking distance is the newly renovated Marriot campus featuring The Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inn & Suites and Residence Inn.

Add a park-like setting and fabulous gathering spaces like The Oasis — where memorable culinary experiences are offered up by The Crab Station, The Latin Pig  and Growler USA — and it’s easy to see why the Cascades is a sought-after location for businesses, events, weddings or just hanging out for the night with good friends, good food and good fun.

We are very proud of the Cascades and congratulate Jackson Shaw on its continued success in The Colony.

The Colony EDC received the 2018 Economic Excellence Award from the Texas Economic Development Council for the 11th consecutive year during the TEDC Legislative Conference held February 20-22 in Austin.

The Colony is one of only 51 organizations statewide to earn this honor this year.

“This award recognizes economic development organizations that meet a high threshold of professionalism and achievement,” said The Colony Mayor Joe McCourry.

“From our City administration, elected and appointed officials to our Economic Development staff, we have a very highly experienced team,” Mayor McCourry added. “As a result, The Colony has truly become a Texas Destination for exceptional commercial and residential development.”

“The TEDC’s Economic Excellence Recognition program is one of the ways in which our organization honors the outstanding commitment to excellence of our communities and regions, their leaders, and their economic development professionals have toward the professionalization of their economic development efforts,” said Carlton Schwab, President/CEO of the TEDC, during the awards presentation program.

The Texas Economic Development Council, established in 1961, is an Austin-based, statewide, non-profit professional association, dedicated to the development of economic and employment opportunities in Texas.

The TEDC provides information, educational and legislative services to nearly 850 members. Its objective is to support the economic growth of Texas and develop strategies that promote a positive business climate in the state.

The Colony Economic Development Corporation is proud to announce our latest recipient of our Business Improvement Grant (BIG) given to JTW, Properties Inc.

This grant is given for landscaping improvements to the building located at 3700 Standridge Drive The Colony, Texas.

Mr. Jesse Woskowicz bought the property in 2013. Since then there have been many upgrades to the property. The building was built in 2001. Mr. Woskowicz founded AmeriDream Mortgage Group, LLC in 2006 and currently serves as the company’s President. AmeriDream Mortgage is a mid-size residential mortgage banker / brokerage firm. AmeriDream Mortgage is also a tenant in the building. 3700 Standridge currently houses 12 different businesses. The location also has two spaces available for lease. If you are interested in securing a space for your business, please call 469-362-4700.

Mr. Woskowicz and his team believe in giving back to the community and are passionate about working with Habitat for Humanity, Lewisville Independent School District, and other ISD’s. Currently, they are working in partnership with LISD’s “Back to School” program helping to support underserved school needs. “Supporting our local communities is extremely important to us. We will continue to increase our support in the coming years,” stated Mr. Woskowicz.

Testimonial:

“First and foremost, we would like to THANK The Colony for allowing us to take advantage of the $1000 grant program. We appreciate the City’s continued support in affording its citizens and business owners the opportunity to grow and further invest in our wonderful City. For a long time, I had wanted to invest in commercial real estate and I knew The Colony was the city I wanted to invest in. The Colony has and continues to offer a multitude of opportunities for both my business and family. We have been part of the community and surrounding community dating back to 2006. The location for our business was / is ideal. As a result, I purchased the building in 2013. JTW Properties, Inc., is thankful and proud to be a part of the city and to further invest in The Colony in the future.” – Jesse Woskowicz

A new Galaxy Theatres location has broken ground at Grandscape.

The 85,000+ square foot entertainment venue will have 16-screens venue and is expected to open in the Fall 2019.

The venue will feature digital sound & projection and plush stadium seating with power recliners. There will be a full-service bar and restaurant and two large auditoriums with DFX projection and sound.

The Colony Economic Development Corporation has created a Business Improvement Grant (BIG) Program.

This program is a way for us to collaborate with local businesses in our community.

The program is intended to assist with improvements at their facilities. We are proud to reinvest in our commercial citizens. This grant was presented to Colony Cobblers in partnership on the new sign at the facility.

David Cortez has owned and operated Colony Cobblers for 35 years. He learned his artisanship from his father. Over the years, he has serviced the citizens of The Colony repairing shoes, boots and purses among many other items. Colony Cobblers also makes custom fitted boots and shoes for those with unique needs that are not typically fitted in stores. David has seen many changes in the 35 years in business here in The Colony. He is a proud member of The Colony’s business community.

Colony Cobblers are located at 5201 S. Colony, Suite 460.

The Colony Economic Development Corporation has created a Business Improvement Grant (BIG) Program.

This program is a way for us to collaborate with local businesses in our community.

The program is intended to assist with improvements at their facilities. We are proud to reinvest in our commercial citizens. This grant was presented to David’s Automotive in partnership on the new fencing at the shop.

David Nix, owner of David’s Automotive retired in 1999 from the United States Submarine Force after 20 years of service. David owns the oldest commercial building in The Colony, which was built in 1973. Goodyear operated in the building for 16 years until 1989; Colony Tire & Auto occupied the space for 19 years until 2008. David’s Automotive has owned and operated in the space since then.

David believes in giving back to the community. He gives the First Baptist Church the use of some of the bays once a month for single mothers and the elderly. He also supports the “Walk” to stop human trafficking once a year. David offers a 10% discount for The Military (active or retired and their families), First Responders and Senior Citizens. David has made many improvements to the facility over the years and believes in doing his part in being environmentally conscious. His shop is a “green” business.

David’s Automotive is located at 4915 Branch Hollow Drive.

Grandscape is excited to announce today famed Chicago restaurant Quartino is coming to Texas!

Located in the Grotto district of Grandscape, Quartino Ristorante & Wine Bar will span two levels with a mix of indoor and outdoor bar and dining room seating. The menu will feature authentic Italian dishes such as Neapolitan pizza, handmade pastas and risottos and regional specialties like artisanal salumi and house-made cheeses, served alongside an extensive wine list and cocktails.

The Colony EDC awarded State Farm Randy Truelove with a matching Business Improvement Grant (BIG) for improvements made to his sign! The BIG is available to local businesses to assist with needs such as new signage, façades, landscaping, paint and other items that improve and enhance the exterior of the business.

The Colony EDC has the ability to  match up to $1,000.00 invested by a business on an exterior improvement or repair project. The BIG is available for exterior repairs only.  To apply, simply complete this one-page form (67k PDF) and submit to The Colony EDC.

The Colony EDC received the 2017 Economic Excellence Award from the Texas Economic Development Council for the 10th consecutive year during the TEDC Mid-Year Conference held June 13-15 in Galveston, Texas. The Colony is one of only 39 organizations statewide to earn this honor this year.

“This award recognizes a commitment to professional economic development by City administration, elected and appointed officials, and exemplary professional standards demonstrated by the Economic Development Staff,” said The Colony Mayor Joe McCourry. “We are very proud that our team has once again earned this honor, as they have clearly been extremely successful in bringing new, high quality, unique businesses to The Colony.”

As a result, The Colony has become a Texas Destination for development with unique and exciting venues like Nebraska Furniture Mart anchoring the 400-acre Grandscape, Scheels All Sports (a 300,000+ square-foot store opening in 2020) and restaurants and entertainment like Rock & Brews, Lava Cantina and Topgolf.

“Announcements regarding new additions at Grandscape occur frequently, where unique shopping, dining and attractions include Hard Eight BBQ, Heritage Pizza, Another Broken Egg and Bread Zeppelin,” added Mayor McCourry. “Coming soon are Akira Back, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, Cigars International, Galaxy Theatres, Thirsty Lion, Twigs Bistro, Truck Yard, Walk-Ons and Windmills.”

Other leaders in their industry sectors that call The Colony home include Oceus Networks, Ceragon, Shaddock Homes, Hilti, Armor Safe and Zackat, all located in The Cascades. Businesses located in the master-planned Austin Ranch include Rave Restaurant Group, Panasonic and Quest Resource Management.

Additionally, hospitality choices within The Colony now include Residence Inn by Marriott, Fairfield Inn by Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott, Holiday Inn, Hyatt Place, Staybridge Suites, Hampton Inn & Suites and many more.

“With a retail trade area that has almost tripled in 16 years to 167,361; the projects we are welcoming complement each other and build on a positive synergy and momentum that has been extremely exciting,” said Keri Samford, Executive Director of Development. “It’s an honor and very gratifying to lead The Colony’s Economic Development efforts.”

The Colony EDC congratulates Grandscape being named a finalist in the Mixed Use Project category for the 2018 D CEO Real Estate Awards.

Each year, D CEO Magazine honors outstanding projects, deals, and industry players with their Commercial Real Estate Awards program. This year 52 finalists were selected for recognition in 16 categories. Grandscape is one of the finalists in the Mixed Use Project category. Winners will be revealed at a March 28 awards gala and featured in the April issue of D CEO.

Read the full story on D Magazine’s website.

The Colony EDC received the 2016 Economic Excellence Award from the Texas Economic Development Council for the ninth consecutive year during the TEDC Mid-Year Conference held June 7-9 in Plano, Texas. The Colony is one of only 33 organizations statewide to earn this honor this year.

“This award recognizes a commitment to professional economic development by City administration, elected and appointed officials, and exemplary professional standards demonstrated by the Economic Development Staff,” said The Colony Mayor Joe McCourry.

“We are very proud that our team has once again earned this honor, as they have clearly been extremely successful in bringing new businesses to The Colony.”

This work involves representing The Colony at regional and national events, including International Council of Shopping Centers RECon, the world’s largest gathering of retail real estate professionals with over 37,000 attendees and close to 1,200 exhibitors.

“RECon is a must-attend event for attracting any type of retail real estate development in your community,” said Keri Samford, Director of The Colony’s Economic Development Corporation.  “In just three days, we were able to meet with numerous shopping center developers, owners, and retailers to ensure that they are aware of the incredible opportunities in our community.”

Participating in TEDC and RECon is a large component of The Colony’s economic development and retail recruitment strategies, notes Samford. “Many of the retail projects now complete or underway in The Colony were sparked through our networking and one-on-one meetings at past RECon conferences, and interest in our community this year was extremely high,” she said.

Award-winning projects the economic development team has brought to The Colony include Nebraska Furniture Mart, anchoring the 400-acre Grandscape Development; The Cascades, a mixed-use development on SH 121; and Austin Ranch, another beautiful mixed use development minutes from SH 121.

With a Retail Trade Area that has almost tripled in 15 years to 155,425, The Colony continues to attract popular brands like Topgolf, Scheels and Galaxy Theater, and unique concepts like KISS frontman Gene Simmon’s Rock & Brews restaurant, Hard 8 Barbecue, and Lava Cantina, a 28,000-square-foot restaurant and live music depot. One of the most recent additions to the retail landscape is The Shacks, a trendy dining and dog park in Austin Ranch that opened to rave reviews.

“The projects we are welcoming complement each other and build on a positive synergy and momentum that has been extremely exciting,” said Samford. “It’s an honor and very gratifying to be a part of The Colony’s Economic Development Team.”

Grandscape and Galaxy Theatres are thrilled to announce the luxury theatre operator will be joining the $1.5 billion development in The Colony, Texas. They are set to break ground this year on their 85,000+ sf, 16-screen venue with a projected open date of Spring 2019. Keeping to their vision the development team at Grandscape is excited about the unique offering that Galaxy has and that this will be the first location in the DFW metro.

Galaxy Theatres is an incredible operation which has demonstrated strong performance in their markets through their focus on visitor experience. This fits perfectly with our vision for Grandscape and will be the finest theatre experience in the DFW area.
-Jeff Lind, President, Grandscape

Every theatre within this state-of-the-art venue will feature digital sound & projection and luxury stadium seating with full-power recliners. Along with these amenities, there will be a full-service bar and restaurant and 2 large format auditoriums featuring their exclusive DFX projection and sound. Providing each and every movie-goer with the best possible, highest quality, affordable entertainment experience is the number one goal of Galaxy Theatres. Boasting all of these features Galaxy Theatres is sure to become the premiere luxury movie experience in North Dallas.

Our goal is simple, we aim to create and bring the finest movie theatre experience to the DFW metro, right here in The Colony!
-Rafe Cohen, President, Galaxy Theatres, LLC.

Members of the Urban Land Institute’s Retail Product Council got a “behind the scenes” look at Nebraska Furniture Mart organized by our own Keri Samford, Director of The Colony’s Economic Development Corporation, and led by representatives from the retailing giant.

Involved in bringing Nebraska Furniture Mart and the Grandscape Development to The Colony since the project was conceived in 2011, Keri was able to offer valuable insight to the members who represent development companies, financial institutions, service and construction companies.

“The tour was very well received, and everyone had fantastic things to say about Nebraska Furniture Mart and Grandscape,” notes Keri, who was invited to join the ULI’s Retail Product Council this year.

The goal of the North Texas-based Council is to provide a forum for education, networking, and sharing of best practices among the spectrum of disciplines involved in North Texas real estate.

Represents City at World’s Largest Retail Conference

The Colony Economic Development Corporation maintained its high profile and busy pace this spring as the organization won state honors as well as represented the City at the most important and largest retail real estate gathering in the world.

The Colony EDC received the 2015 Economic Excellence Award from the Texas Economic Development Council for the eighth consecutive year during the TEDC Spring Conference held June 8-9 in Irving, Texas. The Colony is one of only 22 cities statewide to earn this honor this year.

The award is presented to organizations that demonstrate a high level of achievement in their economic development efforts and a commitment to professional development. Factors cited include The Colony’s involvement with real estate and industry professional organizations; the expertise and training of staff; and well organized and coordinated economic development strategies.

“Receipt of this award is testament to the professionalism and expertise of our staff and volunteers serving on the Economic Development Board,” said The Colony Mayor Joe McCourry. “Working with our City Manager and Council, this team has been extremely successful in bringing new businesses to The Colony.”

This work involves representing The Colony at regional and national events, including International Council of Shopping Centers RECon, the world’s largest gathering of retail real estate professionals.

This year’s RECon was the biggest since 2007 with over 37,000 attendees and close to 1,200 exhibitors. The industry event was covered by 60 reporters from outlets like The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg Radio, Investor’s Business Daily, Forbes and GlobeSt.com.

“RECon is a must-attend event if you are trying to create any type of retail real estate development in your community,” said Keri Samford, Director of The Colony’s Economic Development Corporation.  “In just three days, we were able to meet with numerous shopping center developers, owners, and retailers to ensure that they are aware of the incredible opportunities in our community.”

Participating in TEDC and RECon through the years has proven to be a very viable component of The Colony’s economic development and retail recruitment strategies, notes Samford. “Many of the retail projects now complete or underway in The Colony were sparked through our networking and one-on-one meetings at past RECon conferences, and interest in our community this year was extremely high,” she said.

The brands opening and expanding in The Colony reflect what today’s consumer wants, an experience! Shopping for the home takes on a whole new meaning at the 1.86 million-square-foot Nebraska Furniture Mart, which opened in the 400-acre Grandscape Development in 2015. Owned by Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., this retail Mecca kicked an already strong market into high gear with additional powerhouse retailers, unique restaurants and entertainment venues like Topgolf; Rock and Brews, owned by KISS front man Gene Simmons; Hard 8 Barbecue; and Lava Cantina, a 28,000-square-foot restaurant and live music depot now underway.

The world’s largest sports store, SCHEELS, will also soon be calling The Colony home. These accomplishments are one reason why The Colony has received a significant level of local and national accolades and media attention.

“These are definitely busy, but exciting times,” said Samford.

So excited to share this news! Scheels is coming to Grandscape!

The Colony SCHEELS will be the World’s Largest All Sports Store with 300,000 sq. ft. of top name brands under one roof. The store will have more than 85 specialty shops that will provide a retail adventure for the sports enthusiast, the outdoor adventurer, and for those that seek an array of fashion and footwear. SCHEELS believes in providing exceptional customer service, expert advice on a wide selection of products and services, lively entertainment venues, and welcoming ambiance. The store will break ground in 2018 & open in 2020.

The 85 specialty shops will range from technical running gear to spectacular hunting and fishing shops. The sport shoe, hiking boot, and casual footwear selection will be the largest in the region to meet the needs from toddlers to all athletes, from serious hikers to beach goers, and from hunters to the fashion conscious. There will be a World Class golf shop, bike shop, ski shop, canoe and kayak shop. The gun and hunting shops will have a selection of guns ranging from everyday shooters to modern sporting firearms. The men’s and women’s fashion shops will carry the latest brands.

Special attractions will include an expansive 16,000 gallon aquarium, a 65 ft. high 16-car operating Ferris Wheel, photo opportunities, a wildlife mountain, and sport simulators. SCHEELS restaurant and fudge shop, named Ginna’s Cafe, will serve gourmet soups and sandwiches, Starbucks® coffee and specialty drinks, 24 flavors of homemade fudge, and 18 flavors of gelato.

Needless to say we are EXCITED!!!

Learn more about Scheels at www.scheels.com.

By Sarah Blaskovich | Guide Live – Dallas News

Gene Simmons — yeah, the tongue wagging guitarist from the band KISS — is opening a restaurant in sleepy Dallas suburb The Colony. His buddy Paul Stanley is in on the deal, too. The two are the rock, and, alright, the roll, in restaurant chain Rock & Brews.

It’s the first free-standing Rock & Brews in Texas and debuts Monday, March 14. You’ll find it nestled near the behemoth Nebraska Furniture Mart, down the street from the under-construction Toyota headquarters, and only a few thousand feet from the nearest McMansion. The Colony doesn’t exactly scream glam rock like its famous KISS counterparts do. But the restaurant is hip.

Now I know what you’re thinking: There’s already a music-inspired restaurant with wings and burgers; it’s called Hard Rock Cafe. Tell that to Simmons — well, I politely did — and he shrugs off the idea.

“Respectfully, the best thing you can do when you’re running a race,” he says, is to “not see who else is running behind you.” And while Hard Rock Cafes have launched hundreds of restaurants in places like Austria, Norway, Egypt, Fiji and Indonesia, Rock & Brews is only in North America and touches a mere seven states so far. Its partners — a host of real estate and chain restaurant guys, beyond Simmons and Stanley — seem content to multiply without exploding like a ball of fire at a KISS concert.

The kitchen staff makes its own pizza dough and salad dressings; they pickle the onions in-house and make veggie burgers from scratch. CEO Michael Zislis is quick to say the menu of tacos, sandwiches, pizzas and fried stuff is driven by a made-from-scratch mentality.

That “outdoor party fun area,” says Scott Paul, president of operations for Rock & Brews Southwest and Rock & Brews Florida, has shuffle board, foosball, wraparound couches and live music. The patio is dog- and kid-friendly. And let’s just say it: North Texans could use another beer garden in the ‘burbs.

The walls inside are washed with bright murals painted by Dallas-Fort Worth artists Dan Holzschuh and Stylle Read. They depict Stevie Ray Vaughan standing between two skylines, Dallas and Austin, and Texas music legends such as Janis Joplin and Willie Nelson. Concert posters, paintings and photos show Texas outsiders John Lennon, David Bowie and Madonna.

Interestingly, the staff wears whatever it wants; uniforms are uncool. Servers aren’t given a script, either. “Let me get you a cold beer from our fridge,” they might say, Paul recounts. None of this “Welcome, sir and ma’am” nonsense that would feel so not rock ‘n roll.

Similarly, the cooks are allowed to rock out to whatever music they’d like to play on the kitchen speakers. Two TVs located above the cooking line can be turned to any channel. You won’t find that kind of freedom in most kitchens.

Why not turn it up to 11 closer to Gexa Energy Pavilion in Dallas, where Simmons and Stanley have played twice in the past four years.

“There’s so much business here,” says Brett Anz, a principal partner in the restaurant. He lives in Plano and has watched Sam Rayburn Tollway send business west of the Dallas North Tollway and into The Colony. Rock & Brews’ neighboring Nebraska Furniture Mart has been wildly successful, too, with sales exceeding $500 million last year, reports Dallas Morning News business writer Maria Halkias.

For those hoping to stumble upon Simmons and Stanley hanging out at their Texas Rock & Brews, it’s unlikely. However, both rock stars will appear at a ticketed event May 10 where proceeds to go an as-yet-chosen veterans group.

The best place to find Simmons and Stanley is still on stage. “We’ve been coming to Dallas [for a long time],” Simmons says. Then a promise: “and we’re not about to stop.”

See original article at Guidelive.com.

By Lance Murray | Dallas Business Journal

The state of Texas added 24,900 seasonally adjusted nonfarm jobs in December, the 10th straight month of job increases in the state, according to the Texas Workforce Commission.

That was the good news. The bad news is that the state’s unemployment rate rose to 4.7 percent, up from 4.6 percent in November. That’s still below the national average of 5 percent.

“Texas finished 2015 on a strong note in December with employers adding 166,900 jobs over the year across a diverse range of industries,” TWC Chairman Andres Alcantar said in the news release.

According to the TWC, professional and business services employment saw an additional 12,500 jobs in December, that sector’s largest over-the-month gain since November 2014.

The second largest employment gain over the month was the Education and Health Services industry, which saw 7,400 jobs added.

The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area recorded an unemployment rate in December of 3.7 percent, which was down from 4 percent in November and in December 2014.

Read original article at Dallas Business Journal.

Lava Cantina Artist Rendering

By Kelly Dearmore | Dallas Observer

Later this year, The Colony — of all places — will welcome arguably the most ambitious music venue opening in North Texas. Lava Cantina, a 28,000-square-foot restaurant and live music depot, will become the brightest star in the promising Grandscape development. If all goes according to plan, The Colony could soon become a new concert destination — and if so, it’ll happen with the help of longtime Coach Joe’s Hat Tricks owner Tony Avezzano.

The new venue will share acreage with the gargantuan Nebraska Furniture Mart and the latest theme bar from none other than noted casino rockers KISS, among dozens of other restaurants and retail and entertainment options. The centerpiece of the sprawling venue, which will be larger than the original Lava Cantina in Baton Rouge, will be a 1,800-person-capacity concert area. Its size will make Lava Cantina an immediate competitor with many of Dallas’ most beloved venues.

Rock N Concepts, the company responsible for Lava Cantina, is helmed by former Cane’s Chicken COO Ian Vaughn. The Louisiana-raised Vaughn, though a lifelong music lover, is a newcomer to the business side of the North Texas music scene. That makes his hiring of Tony Avezzano to handle talent booking a well-advised move. Avezzano recently sold Hat Tricks, where he oversaw a rather eclectic concert schedule in Lewisville for the past decade, in order to move on to bigger things. Not only does Avezzano have a successful track record when it comes to the crowded live music market, but he knows full well what it takes to pack a room for a wide range of shows at a venue that’s off the beaten, Dallas-proper path.

More than ever, it seems that Dallas might be approaching a saturation point for major new music venues. With the openings of The Bomb Factory and Gas Monkey Live! in the past 16 months, it’s tough to imagine another venue joining in and flourishing without negatively affecting the quality of what’s going on at other venues. Those most at risk include the Granada Theater, House of Blues and slightly smaller spots such as Trees, Dada and The Kessler Theater. But what about the music-loving suburbs north of the insular Dallas bubble south of 635? The Ikea-flavored landscape is a blank canvas for enterprising minds looking to claim some lucrative entertainment territory.

“There’s room for Lava Cantina in the Dallas area because of where it’s located,” Avezzano says. “I think many people out this way in Carrollton, Plano, The Colony, Frisco, Plano, Allen and McKinney are ready for a great venue that’s north of 635 they can go to without having to worry so much about the drive home. That’s not a shot at Deep Ellum or downtown, but it’s just a matter of what will work best for music fans living closer to this area.”

As the construction and planning for Lava Cantina moves ahead, Avezzano will continue to handle music booking for Hat Tricks, and is also beginning to book shows for Stroker’s Ice House, the adored biker bar in Dallas. At this time, Lava Cantina will look to feature between 20 and 30 large ticketed shows from national touring artists, along with many more nights featuring live music on a smaller indoor stage with a 500-person capacity. Avezzano is confident the region can support another venue of its size, but he knows the competition is beyond stiff.

Vaughn throws down some population-focused logic when explaining why he sees the North Texas music scene as a more open equation than some might think. “There are 6.5 million people in this area,” he says. “I know that places like The Bomb Factory and the Granada offer people an experience that’s unique to their establishment, and I’m a big fan of those places personally, but that’s a lot of people we can all go after. I am sure Lava Cantina will provide a really unique experience that can’t be had anywhere else also, so enough of that 6.5 million will want to come to us.”

With a projected opening of late October or early November, Vaughn, Avezzano and other key members of the opening team including former Sundown at Granada chef Patrick Stark, who will handle the restaurant’s Creole/Mexican fusion menu, don’t have time to worry about much beyond making their presence known as soon as possible. According to Vaughn, who admits to having an “obsession with going to concerts,” as well as being a metalhead who would book German metal giants Rammstein for the grand opening if he could, there will be many features aside from a great location that will lure patrons north.

“Our main concert area will be outdoors, but have a retractable roof so that it will remain comfortable in different types of weather,” he says. “Also, that space will be a multi-level area where no one will be more than 100 feet from the stage so that it’s large but still intimate.”

The second stage inside will likely host a regular schedule of local acts, school of rock showcases, jazz brunches and even some celebrity chef demos. Such entertainment diversity will be a big part of the identity Vaughn hopes to galvanize as Lava Cantina goes from shiny newcomer to established veteran.

“Being first to market gives us an advantage,” Vaughn says. “We can create our own brand and build a unique message. We will be one of the Dallas area’s premium destinations for live music.”

View the original article at Dallas Observer.

Lorelei Day | lday@starlocalmedia.com | The Colony Courier-Leader

The Colony Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) discussed various items on Tuesday regarding the expansion and improvement of the city’s retail and residential developments.

Among noteworthy votes were the approval of additional land uses in Austin Ranch, approval for The Thirsty Growler pub to add a location and further building requirements for the Gateway District.

Austin Ranch

The board will recommend to the City Council text amendments that will add certain land uses to the Austin Ranch development. If approved, a health studio, photography studio, private recreation club or area, art or dance studio and a dog park will be allowed to occupy the area.

Austin Ranch contains commercial, office, mixed-use and single-family and multi-family homes. Planning Director Mike Joyce said Austin Ranch has seen significant growth over the past year due to Grandscape’s expansion, which includes Nebraska Furniture Mart, Hard Eight BBQ, Rock & Brews, Mi Cocina, Lava Cantina and many other attractions.

“It’s [Austin Ranch] one of the new and happening places in the city,” senior planner Surupa Sen said. “We look forward to developing it and having it as part of The Colony.”

The Thirsty Growler

A recommendation was made to the council to approve a Special Use Permit (SUP) for The Thirsty Growler.

“The Thirsty Growler [located within the Village at 121 shopping center] will sell a variety of craft beer, cider and kombucha for on-site consumption and to-go containers,” Sen said.

Star Liquor is located within 1,000 feet of the proposed location for The Thirsty Growler. Although it has been closed since 2012, Star Liquor’s SUP still remains active. Under city law, The Thirsty Growler cannot legally obtain its SUP until Star Liquor’s permit is revoked. The city has reached out to the previous owners and does not anticipate any problems with that course of action.

The council will now have to approve the commission’s suggestion to change the law that prevents any business that estimates 75 percent or more of its income from alcohol sales to be located within 1,000 feet of another similar facility to 300 feet.

If the amendment to the law passes, The Thirsty Growler will be able to obtain its SUP and move in to the Village at 121 shopping center.

Gateway District

Commissioners approved an ordinance revision to the Gateway District, the area within the S.H. 121 and Main Street corridors.

The revision will allow for retail, commercial and office developments at the South Colony Boulevard, Paige Boulevard and the southwest corner of Kisor Drive and Paige Blvd to be in compliance with the “enhanced development standards” that were modified in 2013.

The regulations for this area include:

Site design, landscaping, building design, public areas, pedestrian and bike standards, fences and service areas.

View original article at The Colony Courier-Leader.

Service King Collision Repair Centers plans to open new location in The Colony in 2016

Service King Collision Repair Centers, an industry-leading national operator of high-quality collision repair centers and one of the most trusted automotive repair companies nationwide, today held a groundbreaking ceremony for its future location in The Colony, Texas.

Service King officials, including CEO Chris Abraham, joined representatives from the city of The Colony to officially commence construction of Service King’s future 22,600 square foot repair center located at 5270 Memorial Dr. in the rapidly growing north-Dallas suburb of The Colony. Service King plans to open the repair center in late summer 2016.

“The Colony is thrilled to welcome the newest North Texas Service King location,” said Keri Samford, Director of Economic Development for the city of The Colony. “Service King and its family of teammates will serve as a vibrant addition to our business community and provide a world-class service to our citizens.”

The new repair center will operate as Service King’s 35th location in the DFW Metroplex and boast the capacity to repair up to 300 vehicles per month while employing a staff of 25-30 teammates. It will mark Service King’s very first location in The Colony and the first new location to be constructed from the ground-up in the Dallas area in five years.

“This is a moment our team has been looking forward to for quite some time,” said Jeff McFadden, Service King President. “Service King has always been extremely proud to call DFW home and we look forward to a long, prosperous future in The Colony with the addition of this repair center.”

Service King, which will celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2016, is one of the fastest growing collision repair providers in the country serving customers and insurance partners at more than 275 locations in 23 states across the U.S. The company provides all customers a written lifetime warranty valid at any of its locations, on-site rental assistance and works directly with all major insurance carriers to simplify the repair process.

“This is an exciting time to join The Colony in the midst its booming growth in the market,” said Service King CEO Chris Abraham. “After five years of expanding Service King to customers across the U.S. our team is thrilled at the opportunity to continue investing in our home market as we enter our 40th anniversary as an organization.”

Service King Presentation Plaque

Above: Service King CEO, Chris Abraham (left) presents Deputy Mayor Pro Tem, Perry Schrag with a commemorative Service King plaque.

ABOUT SERVICE KING COLLISION REPAIR CENTERS
Service King is one of the largest multi-location operators of collision repair facilities in the U.S., dedicated to offering customers an overall superior service experience. Founded in 1976 in Dallas, Texas, Service King is a leader in the collision repair industry, currently servicing customers at 276 locations in 23 states. In 2015, Service King was named the No. 1 Best Place to Work by both the Dallas and San Antonio Business Journals. For more information about Service King, visit www.ServiceKing.com.

The Dallas Business Journal recently released its list of “The 15 Most-Read DBJ Stories of 2015”.

And we were pleased to see that The Colony’s Grandscape Development made the list!

In the October article, Dallas Business Journal staff writer Candace Carlisle reported that construction had begun on the $45 million “boardwalk” district of the $1.5 billion mixed-use development anchored by Nebraska Furniture Mart.

“We haven’t officially named it, but it’s the boardwalk district,” Jeff Lind, president and CEO of Grandscape and Nebraska Furniture Mart Texas, which are affiliates of Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Inc., told Carlisle.

Once filled, the 11-acre manmade lake fronting the boardwalk will bring an amenity to Grandscape, which has already landed a number of restaurants and 1,800-fan concert venue.

“This will be an amenity to serve those restaurant pad sites and give people a walking area with music and lighting,” he said. “It will be a nice place to take a stroll.”
Grandscape has already landed the 1,800-seat concert venue Lava Cantina along the boardwalk and could land another five restaurants.

The Warren Buffett-backed company is working directly with restaurant and retail owners from outside Dallas-Fort Worth to bring new concepts to the region.

Along with the boardwalk district, Grandscape has started construction on two multi-tenant buildings along Plano Parkway in between Bargain Way and Nebraska Furniture Mart Drive.

Two new restaurants — Dog Haus and Bread Zeppelin — are the first to join the buildings that will total more than 16,000 square feet in retail space. Both restaurants are slated to open in fall 2016.

Additionally, Cheddars Casual Café is already open in the Grandscape development, with Mi Cocina, Rock & Brews, and Hard 8 Barbecue coming in 2016.

In an effort to promote additional economic development, enhance the local tax base, and create new jobs, The Colony Economic Development Corporation participated in the Texas Deal Making Conference hosted in Dallas this month by the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC).

The three-day event featured educational sessions on retail and economic development issues, as well as an exhibit hall bustling with activity as leading retailers, developers, leasing agents, brokers and Texas cities including The Colony.

“Participating in this event is an important part of our retail recruitment and expansion strategies,” said Keri Samford, Director of The Colony’s Economic Development Corporation.  “This year was one of the busiest shows since the recession, and there is tremendous interest in The Colony.”

Press Release by Lindsey Rose | lindsey.rose@tileshop.com

The Tile Shop, a specialty retailer of premium manufactured tile and natural stone, setting and maintenance materials, announced that it has expanded its presence in Dallas, opening a new retail showroom to the public today at 6240 Morning Star Drive in The Colony, Texas.

The new store is The Tile Shop’s fifth location in the Dallas metro area, showcasing inspirational styled living spaces defined by a diverse collection of more than 4,000 ceramic, porcelain, glass and natural stone tile products in unlimited color palettes and textures. The approximately 15,000 square-foot store also features an on-site design and education center available to all customers.

“Our tile collection encompasses many colors, shapes, patterns and textures that allow people to express their own style, and we’re excited to introduce The Colony area homeowners and trade professionals to our product selection and shopping experience,” said Carl Randazzo, Senior Vice President of Retail for The Tile Shop.

“We’re as passionate about our customers as we are about our products, and as a project partner, we understand their home is a big part of their lives. Whether dressing up a single surface, doing a complete remodel or building a new home, we bring customers product and design inspiration, expert advice, superior service and confidence to achieve their vision.”

Learn more about The Tile Shop on their website.

Read the full press release.

Keri Samford, Director of The Colony Economic Development Corporation, was an invited guest speaker at the Texas Municipal League’s inaugural Economic Development Conference held in Bastrop, Texas October 16-17.

Keri presented the incredible economic development impact that the opening of Nebraska Furniture Mart and the Grandscape development is having on The Colony.

In addition to the increased business and sales tax generated by the retailing giant owned by Berkshire Hathaway, the project has spurred significant growth across all industry sectors including housing, restaurants, retailers, lodging, and business/corporate expansions and relocations.

Ms. Samford shared insight on how the project was landed with a full room of TML members, and offered tips for successfully securing new projects in their own communities.

Also presenting during this conference session was Jim Quin, City Administrator of Haslet, who discussed the Amazon Fulfillment Center’s expansion in Haslet, and Plano City Manager Bruce Glasscock, who discussed Toyota’s move of  its U.S. headquarters to Plano.

Grandscape Presentation TML 2015

Above from left: Keri Samford, Director of The Colony Economic Development Corporation; Bruce Glasscock, Plano City Manager; and Jim Quin, City Administrator of Haslet.

Candace Carlisle | ccarlisle@bizjournals.com | Dallas Business Journal

The development group behind Grandscape — a $1.5 billion mixed-use development anchored by the massive Nebraska Furniture Mart — has started construction on its next phase of the 400-acre project, a $45 million “boardwalk,” district.

“We haven’t officially named it, but it’s the boardwalk district,” Jeff Lind, president and CEO of Grandscape and Nebraska Furniture Mart Texas, which are affiliates of Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Inc., told the Dallas Business Journal.

The board walk at Grandscape will include a restaurant row overlooking a man-made lake fronting the Sam Rayburn Tollway.

Once filled, the 11-acre manmade lake fronting the boardwalk will bring an amenity to Grandscape, which has already landed a number of restaurants and 1,800-fan concert venue.

“This will be an amenity to serve those restaurant pad sites and give people a walking area with music and lighting,” he told me. “It will be a nice place to take a stroll.”

Recently, Grandscape landed the 1,800-seat concert venue Lava Cantina along the boardwalk and could land another five restaurants. Grandscape officials plan to keep the number of restaurants low in the immediate area to ensure there’s parking for restaurant-goers and areas for valet, he said.

The Warren Buffett-backed company has bucked the traditional development mode of using brokers to land big retail tenants, Lind said. Instead, the group is working directly with restaurant and retail owners from outside Dallas-Fort Worth to bring new concepts to the region.

“A lot of places are coming to us and those discussions are in progress,” Lind told me. “Expect more announcements before too long.”

Along with the boardwalk district, Grandscape has started construction on two multitenant buildings along Plano Parkway in between Bargain Way and Nebraska Furniture Mart Drive.

Two new restaurants — Dog Haus and Bread Zeppelin — are the first to join the buildings that would total more than 16,000 square feet in retail space. Both restaurants are slated to open in fall 2016.

Lind said he will take his time landing the right restaurants and retail shops within Grandscape.

Read the original article at The Dallas Business Journal

Korri Kezar | Dallas Business Journal

Though the restaurant is months away from opening, on Monday KISS bassist Gene Simmons visited The Colony, the site of Rock and Brews’ newest location.

Simmons and KISS front man Paul Stanley co-founded the Rock and Brews concept with Dave Furano, Dell Furano and Michael Zislis. Its first location opened in El Segundo, California, in 2012. The restaurant serves pizza, burgers, sandwiches and fish tacos complemented with local craft beers.

It has 11 locations and plans to grow to 75 to 100 stores in the next five years. Those growth plans could include another North Texas location, though Simmons adds he restaurant will stick with one for now.

About 100 city officials, business leaders and members of the media gathered under a white tent next to Nebraska Furniture Mart Monday afternoon to sample burgers, sandwiches, coleslaw and salad from Rock and Brews’ menu and hear Simmons speak.

“I’m here because we’re committed to this, we’re committed to Dallas,” he told the crowd. “You may not be a rock star, but we’re going to make you feel like a rock star.”

The Colony location, which will encompass 8,950 square feet, is set to open in January. Simmons hopes to open the doors on Jan. 1, and he and Stanley will return to North Texas on the heels of KISS’ world tour to launch the restaurant.

But before Rock and Brews officially opens for business, Simmons gave the Dallas Business Journal a taste of what to expect in the new eatery.

Rock and Brews places a heavy emphasis on veterans

At 10:45 a.m. every day at all Rock and Brews locations, the restaurants’ staffs stop what they are doing to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and listen to the first 30 seconds of Jimi Hendrix’s rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner.

The Colony location will be no different. On its first day, Simmons said the restaurant will be open only for veterans.

“Our philosophy is, one, honor God, country, and honor the military,” he added. “Day one is only for vets. They come, we honor them, we feed them and we give them a big fat check.”

Read Original Article at the Dallas Business Journal.

Six months ago there was one tenant in the new Phase II of The Cascades, a master-planned community offering office/warehouse opportunities for local and national corporate clients. Today it is almost 70 percent leased with great prospects for the remaining space.

Companies recognize the central location along Sam Rayburn Tollway, just 15 minutes from D/FW Airport. Hilti, who has relocated their corporate office to Legacy in Plano, is opening a retail shop in Building 8 of approximately 6,000 square feet and will sell high-end construction materials. The Tile Shop will be the west end cap of Building 8 and will take 15,000 square feet. Verona Marble Company is a high end Italian marble slab company that will be the east end cap of Building 8 and will take about 9,000 square feet.

Corporations are taking advantage of the growing economic climate we have in Texas. Six Months Smile is relocating their corporate office from New York and taking the other half of Building 9, approximately 12,000 square feet, where Zackat is currently located.  This company is similar to invisalign and has a great reputation with dentists. Titan’s Orthopaedic Sales, a joint replacement distributor, is taking around 11,000 square feet of space in Building 10. Ventanex will take 14,000 square feet of Building 10.  This company is a 3rd party processer of bills, invoices, and other mail-served documents.

The only vacancies remaining are 6,000 square feet in Building 10 and all of Building 7. For more information about opportunities for your business within The Cascades contact Cindi Lane, clane@thecolonytx.org.

Kimberly Diggs | Star Local Media

What was once a Best Buy has become a sleek, modern movie theater offering an elevated moviegoing experience. On July 30, Studio Movie Grill opened the doors to a new flagship location in The Colony, 4800 State Highway 121 at Josey Lane, vastly different from some of the other locations in the area in amenities and décor.

One of the aspects of the experience that they’ve gotten the most compliments about are the custom-built Inorca recliners with plush leather seating.

“Opening this new location in our hometown is as exciting for us as opening our first Studio Movie Grill over 15 years ago,” said Brian Schultz, founder and CEO of Studio Movie Grill. “Since then, technology, amenities and aesthetics have evolved significantly. Dallas really has the most supportive and appreciative of communities, and we are thrilled to be expanding in our own backyard. As our 22nd location nationwide, Studio Movie Grill The Colony promises to be an exceptional in-theater dining experience for our guests.”

Along with the décor, the theater has introduced a revamped menu with new dishes and drinks.

Some of their most popular new menu items are the mahimahi fish and chips and blackened chicken salad, but they’ve made sure to hold fast to classics such as the coconut chicken tenders and, one of their most popular snacks, soft pretzel bites.

They’re also serving new drinks such as the Mexican Chocolate Cinn and the Creamy Caramel Macchiato adult shake, but they are holding on to their bestseller – their frozen margarita.

Though they are most focused on providing a luxurious movie-watching experience, they are also driven to give back to the community that will support them through the years.

Every second Saturday at 11 a.m., once a new children’s movie is released, Studio Movie Grill has a free screening for children with special needs. They work with local hospitals and autism organizations to coordinate screenings of the latest movies.

They recently completed screenings of “The Minions” and “Shaun the Sheep.”

“We turn up the lighting so it’s a bit more conducive and turn down the sound a little bit,” said Gary Frank, marketing director of Studio Movie Grill.

In addition to programs like these, each month, the theater hosts a retro movie series geared toward families called the Family Rewind that allows families to pay $3 to see movies such as “Karate Kid” and “Back to the Future.” It’s hosted one Wednesday and Sunday a month.

“This is a family event that allows parents to show their children movies that they were excited about as kids,” Frank said.

Studio Movie Grill also hosts Girl’s Night Out once a month that allows women to pay $3 to see the featured film. The next Girl’s Night Out will occur on Sept. 9 and feature an in-theater viewing of “Pretty Woman.”

Read original article at Star Local Media.

Korri Kezar | Dallas Business Journal

North Texas can rock and roll all night and party every day with a new Rock and Brews coming to The Colony next year.

The restaurant concept, formed by frontman Paul Stanley and bass guitarist Gene Simmons of the band KISS, is building an 8,950-square foot location near Nebraska Furniture Mart in the Grandscape development. Stanley said the company was drawn to Grandscape’s size and affordable space.

“It’s an exciting project out there and Warren Buffett, you can say he’s a trailblazer, but he’s also someone who doesn’t make a lot of mistakes,” Stanley told the Dallas Business Journal. “ That area is upcoming and it’s expanding, so we chose that area rather than going into the city where it would be more difficult to fully realize what we see Rock and Brews being, which is an indoor/outdoor family-friendly restaurant.”

Rock and Brews will include a pet-friendly patio and a children’s area so music lovers of all ages can enjoy a little classic rock by musicians and bands such as Don Henley, The Beatles and, you guessed it, KISS.

“As I had children, it became more difficult to have a great meal,” Stanley said. “You basically wound up with cardboard pizza surrounded by people playing video games. We wanted to create an atmosphere where you could celebrate what we all love, classic rock, with a staff that you can call your friends. People continue to come back to Rock and Brews because it’s a social hub.”

The menu has been described by Stanley as “fabulous comfort food.” Selections include fish tacos, pizza and burgers, and diners can sample more than 80 craft brews. The Colony location will incorporate region-specific favorites such as chicken fried steak with white gravy.

Stanley will be in The Colony in January when the restaurant is slated to open. The eatery’s launch will include a benefit for veterans with Stanley leading the pledge of allegiance.

“I’m there to shake hands and to make sure the vets have a great time,” he added. “I’m a firm believer that patriotism is cool and we need to make sure that people know loving your country and championing your soldiers is an obligation and an honor.”

After The Colony restaurant’s opening, Rock and Brews may not be done building in North Texas, Stanley said. The 11-location concept plans to grow to between 75 and 100 locations in the next five years, and is expanding into arenas, stadiums and airports, giving options for more Dallas-Fort Worth stores.

Read original article at The Dallas Business Journal.

Sarah Blaskovich | GuideLive

The Colony is about to be on fire. Lava Cantina has a rock and roll vibe, but it’ll be home to country, pop and heavy metal concerts, too.

The opening of Nebraska Furniture Mart and its huge Grandscape development means a steady stream of new food and fun near Texas State Highway 121. The Dallas Morning News has confirmed a 29,000 square foot live music venue and restaurant called Lava Cantina is expected to open near the mega-furniture mart in 2016.

Lava Cantina will have stages indoors and out, plus a patio and a rooftop deck. Owners expect to have live music during meals — jazz brunch is an example — but the venue will also host special ticketed concerts and festivals.

Which means: Your favorite band’s next show might be in The Colony.

Owner and Founding Partner Ian Vaughn would like to snag acts such as Cage the Elephant or AWOLNATION. (Neither are on the calendar; they’re just examples.) He’d also like to host occasional festivals modeled after the one existing Lava Cantina, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Their Cinco de Mayo and Lavapalooza fests might make sense in Dallas-Fort Worth, Vaughn says.

The restaurant and music venue is designed to feel like you’re backstage at a show.

The menu, still being developed, will be the work of chef Patrick Stark, who made his name known at Sundown at Granada in Dallas. Some also know the mohawked chef from his appearances on Food Network.

Stark’s menu at Lava Cantina in The Colony will be Creole with a Mexican twist. You may also see him up on stage; he is active in the music community in D-FW and has expressed interest in performing at the coming-soon spot.

Other notable restaurants coming to The Colony: classic rock themed restaurant fronted by Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of KISS, Hard Eight barbecue, Mi Cocina and more.

Lava Cantina is expected to open in mid 2016 on Grandscape Boulevard in The Colony.

Read original article at GuideLive.com.