BUSINESS BUZZ

The

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J. Crew lite

When was the last time you shopped at J. Crew? If you can’t remember, you’re not alone. Last year was terrible for the retailer. “By the holiday quarter, the store’s gross margin rate had fallen to 34.5 percent,” reports Fortune.com. In an effort to lure bargain shoppers, the retailer plans to open 21 discount stores by 2016. This idea was implemented recently when the Shops at Park Lane became home to the first J. Crew Mercantile in the country. Clothing for men, women and children fills the 7,000-squarefoot space. Styles are similar to those sold in traditional J. Crew stores but more price friendly. Affordability is in vogue at Shops at Park Lane; the center already boasts several discount stores. This fall, it will acquire one more. Forever 21 plans to open F21 Red next to Old Navy. The concept store promises to be vast and inexpensive. But if you’ve sworn off shopping completely, check out Shops at Park Lane’s new green space. The 10,000-square-foot area comes equipped with power outlets, free WiFi and interactive fountains. Go on the right day and you might hear live music, see a movie or catch a yoga class.

NorthPark news

NorthPark Center has several noteworthy stores opening this year. Two examples are Peloton, which “specializes in top-of-theline spin bikes equipped with groundbreaking technology;” and Lou & Grey, which describes itself as “an exciting evolution of the LOFT lounge collection.” Opening this fall is The Frye Company, which sells footwear, bags and accessories; Sundance, which sells men’s and women’s apparel, jewelry, accessories, footwear, art, furniture and home décor; Tommy Bahama, which sells relaxed apparel for men and women, footwear, jewelry, accessories and home décor; AG, which offers “luxury denim;” Vineyard Vines, best known for it’s “whimsical neckties;” and finally Polo Ralph Lauren, offering its “iconic American style” with clothing and accessories for men and women. Aside from retail, a restaurant/bar concept called The Theodore (named after Teddy Roosevelt) also is expected to open in NorthPark this fall in place of Luna De Noche. Tim Byres, co-owner and chef of Smoke, is in charge of the menu, so expect a lot of meat. Also, baker David Norman is contributing a line of baked goods, including pretzels and sandwiches.

A new Crossroads

A rent hike forced Crossroads Diner to move from its location near Presbyterian Hospital to the corner of Preston and Campbell. The new spot is expected to open in January.

Join Fossil Rim In Conservation

North Texas Giving Day

2299 County Road 2008

Glen Rose, Texas 76043

254.897.2960 fossilrim.org

Give $25 or more to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center via NorthTexasGivingDay.org on September 17th between 6am and midnight and your donations will be multiplied from a pool of $2MM of bonus funds and prizes.

Dutch Art Gallery

49 Years of Custom Framing & Fine Art

10233 E. Northwest Hwy Dallas, TX 75238 214-348-7350 dutchartgallery.net

“Scenic Excursions” by Kyle Wood Come explore a variety of original oils on canvas of historic structures, peaceful vistas and beautiful waterways. Meet the artist | Sat., Sept. 26, 2015

Art Viewing 9:30am - 5pm - Reception 3pm - 5pm