FACES INFLUENCE
FACES OF INFLUENCE
Every great product, service, or company has a captivating story behind it, and that story is best told by the people who have contributed to its success—entrepreneurs, deal closers, educators, lawyers, doctors, dentists, and creatives, among so many other professionals.
The individuals and companies profiled on the following pages are founders, innovators, and leaders in their respective fields. When you are in the market for the services and products featured on the following pages, these Faces of Influence are the names to know.
FERTILITY
DFW Fertility Associates 74-75
ORTHOPEDICS
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas 76-77
ABA THERAPY
Karri Shojaei-Scott Marigold Learning Academy 78
BARIATRIC SURGERY
Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas ...................................... 79
BREAST AUGMENTATION
John L. Burns, Jr., M.D. Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute 80
BUSINESS ADVISORY & CONSULTING The Bonadio Group 81
CANCER
M.D.
DENTAL CROWNS
Davina Prida, D.D.S.
Inwood Village Dental 84
DIVORCE
McClure Law Group............................ 85
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
Dreamland Preschool 86
EMPLOYMENT LAW
Clouse Brown PLLC 87
ESTATE PLANNING AND TRUSTS
Aubrey P. Boswell Boswell PLLC 88
FINANCIAL WEALTH CFO4Life 89 IN-HOME CARE
Belinda May Homecare Network 90
INTERIORS AND DESIGN
Susan Semmelmann Semmelmann Interiors ........................ 91 LATIN CUISINE
Gloria’s Latin Cuisine 92
Raja Mohan, M.D. 93
MENTAL HEALTH
Awstin Gregg Connections Wellness Group 94
OPHTHALMOLOGY
Judith Kirby, M.D., F.A.C.S. Kirby Eye Center 95
ORTHODONTICS
Brody Hildebrand, D.D.S., M.S. Preston Hollow Orthodontics 96
PAIN MEDICINE
Rachel Kozinn, M.D. and John Michels, M.D. ISP Health PLLC 97
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Beyond Pediatric Dentistry 98
PERSONAL INJURY Frenkel & Frenkel, L.L.P. 99
PHILANTHROPY Communities Foundation of Texas 100
PORCELAIN VENEERS
Tim Nguyen, D.M.D., F.A.G.D. Parker West Dental Associates 101
PROTON THERAPY
Texas Center for Proton Therapy .. 102
STEAKHOUSES
Randy Burks Randy’s Steakhouse ......................... 103
TEXAS COMMUNITY BANKING
Veritex Community Bank 104
TUMMY TUCK
Steven J. White, M.D. USA Plastic Surgery 105
WELLNESS
Anna M. Toker, M.D. ........................... 106
FACES OF FERTILITY
DFW FERTILITY ASSOCIATES IS A LEADING PROVIDER of fertility treatment in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, providing all aspects of fertility care, ranging from ovulation induction to assisted reproductive technology. The practice was founded in 1999 when Dr. Samuel Chantilis ventured into private practice after serving as faculty at UT Southwestern Medical School.
The practice has grown through the years and has expanded to accommodate six physicians with four physician locations. The office on Glen Lakes Drive near THR Presbyterian Dallas is located next to a state-of-the-art IVF laboratory that opened in 2010, and the practice acquired a second IVF laboratory in 2021. The IVF laboratory is affiliated with the first commercial egg bank in the country, serving as a production center for My Egg Bank, and has vast experience and success with egg freezing. Vitrification services and day-five blastocyst biopsy for preimplantation genetic testing are now routinely conducted alongside many other advanced technologies. DFW Fertility Associates has one of the largest egg donation programs in Texas and is known for its success with third-party (gestation surrogacy) arrangements.
While DFW Fertility Associates’ success rates have consistently shown excellence, many patients achieve their goal of a family with more conservative options.
Drs. Sam Chantilis, Karen Lee, Mika Thomas, Ravi Gada, Laura Lawrence, Jennifer Shannon, and Monica Chung recognize facing infertility can exact a huge toll emotionally, physically, and sometimes financially. In January 2021, DFW Fertility Associates acquired a second IVF laboratory located at the THR Presbyterian Hospital of Plano, and the practice opened another clinic location on the same campus in Medical Office Building II to better serve the community. Recently, the practice opened an office at Baylor University Medical Center downtown in the Baylor Plaza building. DFW Fertility Associates maintains offices in Dallas near THR Presbyterian Dallas, Medical City, Southlake, THR Presbyterian Plano, and Baylor downtown. Dr. Chantilis completed his medical degree and fellowship at UT Southwestern Medical School. Dr. Lee received her medical degree at Harvard Medical School and completed her fellowship at Duke University. Dr. Thomas received her medical degree at UT San Antonio and completed
her fellowship at the University of Iowa. Dr. Gada attended Texas Tech University School of Medicine and completed his fellowship at the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Lawrence received her medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine and completed her fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis. Dr. Shannon received her medical degree from University of Minnesota Medical School and completed her fellowship at UT Southwestern Medical School. Dr. Chung received her medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and completed her fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Their mission is to provide personal attention to each person visiting the clinic to provide customized care. The entire staff combines experience, technology, and advanced training to address infertility, always mindful to treat you with kindness along the journey.
5477 Glen Lakes Drive, Suite 200 | Dallas, Texas 75231 214.363.5965
7777 Forest Lane, Suite D-1100 | Dallas, Texas 75230 214.692.4577
6300 West Parker Road, Suite G28 | Plano, Texas 75093
469.592.8557
910 East Southlake Boulevard, Suite 175 | Southlake, Texas 76092
817.442.5510
3900 Junius Street, Suite 610 | Dallas, Texas 75246 214.823.2692
DallasFertility.com
Left to right: Ravi P. Gada, M.D.; Mika R. Thomas, M.D.; Karen L. Lee, M.D.; Samuel J. Chantilis, M.D.; Monica S. Chung, M.D.; Laura T. Lawrence, M.D.; Not Pictured: Jennifer M. Shannon, M.D.
FACES OF ORTHOPEDICS
BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE ORTHOPEDIC ASSOCIATES of Dallas continues to expand in Dallas-Fort Worth to better meet your orthopedic needs. The goal of Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas is to provide everyone in the Dallas-Fort Worth convenient and timely access to orthopedic care. The practice began with one location near Baylor University Medical Center of Dallas more than 60 years ago and expanded to add additional Dallas locations as well as offices in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, and Garland during the past decade. The practice has recently added locations in Grapevine, Rockwall, Flower Mound, Sunnyvale, Forney, and Greenville. BSW Orthopedic Associates of Dallas also has multiple new surgeons, including several
who received residency or fellowship training from the more senior physicians. The group includes fellowship-trained subspecialists in sports medicine, foot and ankle surgery, joint replacement, shoulder and elbow surgery, and hand surgery. Surgeons treat acute and chronic orthopedic conditions in patients of all ages and believe in shared decision making to determine the optimal treatment plan. Please call 469-800-7200 or visit DallasOrtho.com to make an appointment.
Physicians are employees of HealthTexas Provider Network, a member of Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2024 Baylor Scott & White Health
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas
Left to right, back row: Nicholas Douville, M.D.; Mohamed Mahomed, M.D.; Manoj Reddy, M.D.; Sean G. Haslam, M.D.; Shahram Yari, M.D.; Sherry Igbinigie, M.D.; David Vier, M.D.; Richard Rhodes, M.D.; Babu Reddy, M.D.
Left to right, middle row: Christian Royer, M.D.; Ali Ashraf, M.D.; Jennifer Chu, M.D.; Eitan Ingall, M.D.; Brody Flanagin, M.D.; Bilal Mahmood, M.D.; Sheena Black, M.D.; Bradley Teel, M.D.; Shannon Alejandro, M.D.
Left to right, front row: Khalid Yousuf, M.D.; Anil Koganti, M.D.; Matthew Nevitt, M.D.; Virgil B. Medlock III, M.D.; James Lancaster, M.D.; James Brodsky, M.D.; Jacob Zide, M.D.; William Montgomery, M.D.; Phillip Hansen, M.D.
Orthopedic Associates of Dallas Locations:
Dallas
The Star in Frisco
Frisco-Centennial
Plano
McKinney
Park Cities
Garland
Rockwall- Ridge
Rockwall- Lake Pointe
Sunnyvale Forney
Grapevine
Flower Mound Greenville
469.800.7200 DallasOrtho.com
Karri Shojaei-Scott, BCBA, LBA
FACE OF
ABA THERAPY
KARRI SHOJAEI-SCOTT FOUNDED MARIGOLD Learning Academy for several reasons—a community need and a passion for special education among them. Primarily, she was inspired by her son with learning differences. After working as a principal and teacher in Dallas, she opened Marigold, an accredited ABA learning center with an innovative approach where students with autism are emerged into a structured school program in mock classrooms for a variety of therapies. ABA therapy helps prepare children to transition into traditional classrooms by increasing or improving desired behaviors needed for success in school. Marigold’s signature academic readiness program is designed for children with autism and provides critical tools they can utilize in school and in their communities. “We have created an inclusive setting where kids are set up to be successful,” Shojaei-Scott says. “Each Marigold Learning Academy serves no more than 25 students ranging in age from 2 to preteens. The curriculum is designed for students to make a smooth transition into public or private school with their mainstream, neurotypical peers.”
Shojaei-Scott, a Certified Austim Specialist, opened the first academy in Rockwall in 2012. Four other locations followed in areas where she felt children on the spectrum were underserved. Plans for Camp Marigold are underway, and Marigold Learning Academy is expanding outside of Texas to Colorado and Tennessee. Each location is designed with a sensory sensitive environment in mind. For example, the third-floor Dallas location has windows all around, which allows the outside to be incorporated into the design. During the past 10 years, Marigold has won several awards for its academic, early intervention, and ABA therapy programs. Marigold also partners with local colleges and high schools to train and mentor teachers and interns.
Shojaei-Scott’s passion for special education is as strong as it was two decades ago. “People tell me I’m special because of what I do; I believe it’s because I’m living my best life working with staff who share my passion,” she says. MARIGOLD LEARNING ACADEMY AND ABA THERAPY 972.722.3892 | MarigoldABA.com
Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas
FACES
BARIATRIC SURGERY
IF YOU’RE LIKE MOST AMERICANS, EACH NEW YEAR brings a renewed focus on health. From working out to eating a healthy diet and the most popular resolution—losing weight— many of us make the same commitments and struggle with the same challenges of following through. But when it comes to achieving a healthy weight, you don’t just want a successful year, right? You want a successful life! No more starting over every new year! No more getting stuck in the start-over cycle!
Not Another Resolution; A Solution
Beyond New Year’s resolutions, Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas offers solutions for a whole new life. Step into the life you want with the confidence that comes with having a solid, proven plan for success and the support you need to make it happen. Weight Loss Specialists has everything you need to become the version of “you” that you’ve always wanted to be. Led by Dr. Folahan Ayoola, Weight Loss Specialists is helping individuals transform their lives and their health with a comprehensive approach to achieving and maintaining a
healthy weight for a lifetime. From accountability groups and customized weight loss programs to help with aesthetics after weight loss, they have you covered.
Lose the Guilt and the Weight
If a struggle with obesity is part of your story, you don’t have to hide. You can lose weight, regain your health, improve your quality of life, and feel great about yourself. At Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas, there is no blame. No shame. Just compassionate care that gets results
3321 Colorado Boulevard | Denton, Texas 76210
4370 Medical Arts Drive, Suite 105 | Flower Mound, Texas 75028
5575 Frisco Square Boulevard, Suite 260 | Frisco, Texas 75034
940.382.9429
weightlosssurgeon.com
Left to Right: Folahan Ayoola, M.D.; Tarik Al-Kalla, M.D.
John L. Burns, Jr., M.D.
BREAST AUGMENTATION
PATIENTS CHOOSE DR. JOHN BURNS AS THEIR surgeon for a variety of reasons, as he specializes in all aspects of cosmetic surgery of the face, breast, and body. However, many women seek his expertise in breast augmentation—a major focus of his practice for the past two decades. Dr. Burns is widely sought after for his excellent outcomes in breast augmentation due, in part, to his rapid recovery protocol, natural results, high-tech 3D implant imaging, precise implant placement, and a no-touch technique during surgery.
“My patients typically recover within a day or two after surgery, thanks to a rapid recovery protocol,” he says. “With 3D implant imaging, patients can see what they will look like on a computer so they can pick the perfect implant to meet their goals. I also use a no-touch technique, placing implants under the muscle using a funnel, which prevents scar tissue build-up around the implants (capsular contracture).”
Dr. Burns is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and president of the Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute. He is also medical director of DPSI’s affiliated EpiCentre
Skin Care and Laser Center, Dallas’ Premier Medical Spa. He graduated summa cum laude from the research honors program at Vanderbilt University and the University of Texas Medical Branch and completed his plastic surgery training in the integrated program at UTMB. He also pursued additional expertise in aesthetic surgery in Florida, microvascular surgery at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, and fellowship training in laser surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Burns has been recognized by Newsweek magazine as one of the nation’s leading plastic surgeons in the categories of facelift, rhinoplasty, and breast augmentation. Dr. Burns operates at the Dallas Day Surgery Center, DPSI’s on-site, AAAASF-approved plastic surgery-specific surgical center. Dr. Burns offers both in-person consults at DPSI as well as virtual consults through his website, drjohnburns.com.
DALLAS PLASTIC SURGERY INSTITUTE
9101 North Central Expressway, Suite 600 Dallas, Texas 75231 | 214.515.0002 | drjohnburns.com
FACE OF
The
Bonadio Group
FACES OF
BUSINESS ADVISORY & CONSULTING
THE BONADIO GROUP, A NATIONAL TOP 50 CPA firm, is committed to expanding its focus on advisory and consulting services in addition to traditional accounting offerings. The firm, which opened its Dallas office in 2018, recently joined with Howard, LLP, a local firm with specialties in financial consulting, assurance, and tax services, significantly growing its presence in Dallas-Fort Worth to help regional businesses and organizations achieve maximum results through advisory services that go beyond that of a standard CPA firm.
This shift is indicative not only of the changing nature of the accounting industry, but also of the rapid growth of the Dallas financial market, with the city now considered a hub for the business and financial consulting industry. Most importantly, with the merger, The Bonadio Group can better help Texas businesses optimize their financial functions and the stability of all facets of their operations in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Their experienced team of business consultants offer operational assessments and analyses for a wide variety of scenarios that may impact businesses and then identify the
actions necessary to achieve clients’ business goals.
By offering an extensive list of specialized consulting services, The Bonadio Group aims to advance and deepen its relationship with clients and facilitate growth opportunities for businesses across the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond.
Founded in 1978, The Bonadio Group is a nationally ranked CPA firm offering accounting, tax, and consulting services to clients of all sizes and across a variety of industries. The Firm’s professionals deliver practical, proactive, and innovative solutions to help clients reach their financial, compliance, management, and personal goals. For more information, visit bonadio.com.
Left to right: Bruce Zicari, Managing Partner & CEO, and Tim Pike, Dallas Regional Managing Partner
7557 Rambler Road, Suite 600
Dallas, Texas 75231
877.917.3077 bonadio.com
Steven Paulson, M.D.
CANCER CARE
A CANCER DIAGNOSIS IS FRIGHTENING AND can elicit much anxiety. But thanks to the evolution of innovative cancer treatments, there are more therapeutic options, reduced side effects, and an improved life expectancy.
“Cancer care today is different from a decade ago,” says Steven Paulson, M.D., president and CEO of Texas Oncology. “At Texas Oncology, our evidence-based care model treats the whole patient, focusing on improving patient outcomes and experiences.”
With more than 280 sites of service and more than 530 physicians, Texas Oncology is one of the largest communitybased oncology care practices in the U.S.
In particular, the practice is focused on advancing precision oncology. This rapidly evolving approach allows physicians to select treatments that are most likely to help patients based on a genetic understanding of their disease. As specific genetic mutations are discovered, new drugs are being developed and treatments designed to target these genetic changes that cause cancer.
“We have invested in a creating a precision medicine program
where all our patients with advanced cancers have molecular profiles performed,” Dr. Paulson says. In a matter of minutes, every patient in Texas Oncology with a particular mutation can be identified and physicians notified if there is a new therapy or clinical trial to treat that patient.
“With the advancements in precision medicine, we are doing more than treating cancer. We can cure more patients than ever before, and the ones that are not cured live longer with a better quality of life,” says Dr. Paulson.
The practice has also taken the lead as a trailblazer in cancer research. Establishing and supporting an expansive and robust community-based clinical trial and research program, Texas Oncology has helped develop more than 100 FDA-approved cancer therapies.
For more information about leading-edge cancer treatments visit TexasOncology.com.
TEXAS ONCOLOGY
888.864.4226 | texasoncology.com
FACE OF
Webb Family Law Firm
FACES OF
CHILD CUSTODY
THE WEBB FAMILY LAW FIRM, P.C., LOCATED IN downtown Dallas, has provided child custody representation in Texas for decades. The boutique-style firm specializes in all areas of family law, with an emphasis on child custody and paternity suits.
The Webb Family Law Firm understands the complexities and emotions involved with any family law case, particularly child custody disputes. The firm has developed a unique teambased approach to each case which helps create effective solutions catered to each individual client’s needs. The firm strives to achieve the best possible outcome for clients in custody disputes through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
The attorneys at the firm have a proven track record in and out of the courtroom resolving issues pertaining to divorce, paternity suits, modifications, interstate litigation and relocation matters, and international child abductions.
The Webb Family Law Firm, P.C. represents traditional and nontraditional families, including married couples, unmarried parents, same-sex couples, and military families. If you need
assistance with custody or visitation, call or email the Webb Family Law Firm to schedule a consultation with one of their top-rated attorneys.
Natalie L. Webb, Gregory S. Beane, Lon M. Loveless, Jim Loveless, Brant M. Webb, and R. Kelvin Malone are Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Left to right: R. Kelvin Malone, Brant M. Webb, Lon M. Loveless, Natalie L. Webb, Gregory S. Beane, Karina Rambeau Not pictured: Jim Loveless (Of Counsel)
325 North Saint Paul Street, Suite 4450
Dallas, Texas 75201
214.871.2730
webbfamilylaw.com
Davina Prida, D.D.S.
FACE OF
DENTAL CROWNS
DR. DAVINA PRIDA HAS ALWAYS HAD A PASSION for design. After high school, she set her sights on design school in New York with dreams of becoming a designer. Today, Dr. Prida works as a designer—but not in the way she originally planned.
As a general and cosmetic dentist, Dr. Prida’s new passion is to design smile makeovers using dental crowns, veneers, dental implants, and bridges.
Dr. Prida has practiced in the Dallas area for more than two decades and is now the sole practitioner at Inwood Village Dental, where she and her highly experienced staff provide the full scope of general and cosmetic dentistry are dedicated to patient care and comfort using the latest dental technologies.
Dr. Prida’s approach to smile makeovers sets her apart. “There is another mid-step I do that most other cosmetic dentists don’t offer. I sculpt the new smile on patients with temporaries, then do a 3D scan that is sent to the lab for final fabrication,” she says. “Sculpting the design on the teeth is an added step that elevates the beauty of the patient’s natural smile.”
Dr. Prida says this additional step stemmed from her
frustration with the lack of customization options in cosmetic dentistry. This limited her ability to create a natural-looking smiles. “When I started sculpting the design myself on the patients, every aspect became exact,” she says. “Having an artistic eye to elevate the aesthetic makes a difference. My goal is to maintain the personality of the smile, just elevate the appearance. I love the cosmetic aspect of my practice. Cosmetic dentistry can take at least 10 years off one’s appearance. It is so exciting to see my patients smile more and become confident.”
Practicing at Inwood Village Dental allows Dr. Prida to be active in the community where she lives and raised her children. A military veteran, she also donates dental care services to and is a member of the Texas Army National Guard. She is a graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry and a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
McClure Law Group
FACES OF
DIVORCE
THE TEAM AT MCCLURE LAW GROUP, LED BY Kelly McClure, CEO and managing partner; Francesca Blackard, managing partner; and partners Brandon Joseph, Kate Mataya, Adam Mundt, and Jessica Fresch, is comprised of high-energy, detail-oriented attorneys, including an in-house appellate attorney, CPA-attorney, and family law board-certified attorneys, further solidifying their ability to provide knowledgeable advice and strategies in divorce cases involving unique or complex financial issues and contested child custody disputes.
The McClure team sets the gold standard among law firms in Dallas-Fort Worth and delivers exceptional legal representation to clients across a broad array of industries. In any family law matter, but particularly in financially complex, high-asset divorce cases, the skillset of the attorney identifying assets, presenting creative property division possibilities, and assessing risks to ensure clients are well-informed about their options is crucial to a successful outcome. When searching for family law litigators who know the ins and outs of Texas courts, clients find that this team’s white-glove, concierge approach,
combined with their trial experience in the Dallas, Collin, Denton, and Tarrant County courts, make them a vital asset to have by their side.
Praised for their empathetic and practical approach to each case that leaves no stone unturned, they have received numerous awards, including repeated recognition as Best Lawyers in Dallas by D Magazine and Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report. If you need a compassionate and tenacious legal team to help you achieve your goals and protect your family and fortune, the experienced advocates at McClure Law Group are on board to get the job done.
Park Cities/Dallas
8115 Preston Road, Suite 270 | Dallas, Texas 75225 | 214.692.8200 mcclure-lawgroup.com
Left to Right: Jessica Fresch, Brandon Joseph, Kelly McClure, Kate Mataya, Francesca Blackard, Adam Mundt
FACES OF
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
WHEN PARENTS ARE LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT preschool for their child, they quickly learn that not all preschools are the same. Plano is home to a new premier preschool that offers an alternative model of learning that has received rave reviews from early childhood professionals who are providing children with the best educational approach. Dreamland Preschool uses the Reggio Emilia Approach® to education, a whole-child, hands-on educational philosophy based on the image of a child, who learns through the “One Hundred Languages.”
Juan Hope, founding partner and CEO, says Dreamland’s educational approach is completely child-centered—educators watch what motivates a child’s interest in learning and uses this information as a basis for lessons. The teacher and school are the first two educators, and the environment is the third. “We were very intentional in designing the school because we understand that the space needs to motivate creativity in the child’s mind,” Hope says. “The first five years in a child’s life are so important in terms of brain development. Our goal is to guide
children to become better prepared to face future challenges by providing the tools and competencies they will need.”
Destiny Farris, head of school/chief operating officer, says Dreamland’s learning approach is unique to North Texas and has been enthusiastically embraced. “At Dreamland, children are allowed to explore versus being told what they have to learn,” Farris says. “Each activity or project is designed to enhance their curiosity, and everyone can move at their own pace. We partner with parents to ensure that we are able to focus on the whole child while at home and school.”
Registration is open for children ages 7 weeks to 4 years, and five more North Texas locations are under development.
Left to Right: Destiny Farris, Juan Hope
FACES OF
EMPLOYMENT LAW
KEITH CLOUSE AND ALYSON BROWN MADE A KEY business decision when they joined forces: Do one thing and do it really well. More than 20 years ago Clouse Brown focused its practice on representing C-suite and senior level executives, business owners, physicians, and employers in complex employment contracts, negotiations, and litigation.
Not only are Clouse Brown’s attorneys experts in employment law and executive contracts, they also understand business and problem solving. The team provides decades of experience representing thousands of senior executives, business owners, physicians, and corporations in a variety of complex employment matters, including litigation, arbitration, and contract negotiations.
“Alyson (Brown) and I have practiced together for more than 20 years. We’ve spent decades helping our clients manage, adjust, and resolve workplace crises and unpredictable business challenges,” Clouse says. “Our lawyers certainly know employment law, but more importantly we know how to help clients achieve highly desirable goals and outcomes.”
“Our primary mission is to provide excellent service to our clients,” Brown adds. “Our team is committed to integrity and professionalism in all aspects of advocacy.”
Clouse Brown has been named a Tier 1 law firm in Dallas-Fort Worth for employment law on the exclusive Best Law Firms list. Clouse and Brown are both Board Certified in Labor and Employment Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. They were included on the Best Lawyers list individually for employment law and included in D Magazine’s Best Lawyers in Dallas. Clouse is also a Fellow in the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers. Brown has been named as one of the Top 50 Women Attorneys in Texas by Texas Super Lawyers.
Clouse and Brown have both been included in the prestigious Dallas 500 list by D CEO magazine.
Pictured: Keith Clouse
Clouse Brown PLLC
Aubrey P. Boswell
ESTATE PLANNING AND TRUSTS
AUBREY BOSWELL WAS DRAWN TO THE PRACTICE OF estate planning and probate when he realized the importance these areas hold in everyone’s lives. He values helping clients leave a meaningful legacy and helping to protect that legacy after a loved one passes away.
Before opening his own practice, Boswell spent more than a decade learning about this specialty from some of the best attorneys in Dallas and working with clients with estates at all levels of wealth and complexity. He credits his mentors for helping him to develop the skills needed to work with highnet-worth clients to implement and administer sophisticated estate plans. In 2022, Boswell became board certified in estate planning and probate law.
His legal experience has been amplified by his accounting background. Boswell is one of a very select group of attorneys in the state of Texas who holds both a law license and CPA license.
His practice focuses on estate planning, probate, and trust matters. At heart, he is a problem-solver devoted to finding solutions for his clients. Boswell’s practice, however, is not limited
to preparing legal documents; he also spends his time zealously advocating for clients inside and outside of the courtroom.
His temperament has been described as one who not only creates a plan of action but one who follows through with it. His peers have nominated him multiple times as a Texas Super Lawyers Rising Star and one of D Magazine’s Best Lawyers Under 40.
Outside of his practice, Boswell is a member of the American Academy of Attorney-CPAs and has served on the board of directors of the prestigious Dallas Estate Planning Council. Boswell is also a member of the Dallas Probate Inn of Court.
He is also passionate about giving others a voice who do not have one, which is why he serves on the board of directors of the nonprofit, ChandlerSpeaks, a charity devoted to helping children with speech disabilities.
BOSWELL PLLC
4925 Greenville Avenue, Suite 360 | Dallas, Texas 75206
469.518.9299 | aubrey@boswellpllc.com | boswellpllc.com
FACE OF
FACES OF
FINANCIAL WEALTH
TRUE WEALTH. IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT MONEY. It’s also about dreams. Goals. Financial independence. Peace of mind and security. And the confidence of knowing that for every age and stage of your life you have a plan for your portfolio and financial future. This was the vision founders Levi McMellian and Brian Chastain had when they started considering what a comprehensive financial planning firm could really be more than 25 years ago—one that was focused on the client and their needs above all else. And one that offered a full range of services that clients could access, always knowing they were receiving objective advice. Today, that vision has become a reality with double-digit asset growth since its inception and over $2 billion in assets under management.
CFO4Life incorporates a personalized approach with the support of multiple professionals, delivering the complete package of wealth management services—retirement planning, estate planning, tax services, and 401(k) management for employers. The firm’s relationships are built
on a specific, selective fit process that elevates the ordinary client experience.
CFO4Life—a wealth of experience for your financial future.
CFO4Life Group, LLC (“CFO4Life”) is a federally registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Registration as an investment adviser does not constitute an endorsement of CFO4Life by the SEC nor does it indicate that CFO4Life has attained a particular level of skill or ability.
Securities offered through Ausdal Financial Partners, Inc., 5187 Utica Ridge Road, Davenport, IA 52807 (563)326-2064. Member: FINRA/SIPC. CFO4Life Group, LLC. and Ausdal Financial Partners are independently owned and operated, www.ausdal. com. Insurance products are made available through the licensed insurance agency LMBCII, which is an affiliate of CFO4Life Group, LLC. Tax preparation services also made available through LMBCII.
Left to right: Levi McMellian, Brian Chastain
735 Plaza Boulevard, Suite 100 Coppell, Texas 75019 214.637.9500 | mycfo4life.com
Belinda May
FACE OF
IN-HOME CARE
BELINDA MAY FOUNDED HOMECARE NETWORK IN 1999 after recognizing a critical need in the southern sector of Dallas for improved in-home healthcare. She started her business by herself with one patient, and today she and her growing team of 130 professionals serve more than 600 economically challenged, home-bound patients in 33 counties. Home Care Network is different because it accepts patients most other agencies won’t due to lack of insurance and funds or their critical condition.
“It seems as if more hospitals and medical centers are moving north to serve a different demographic, and this is directly impacting so many patients who are in need of care,” May says. “We don’t shy away from accepting critically and chronically ill patients who live in diminished home settings. We are proud to make a difference in our community and we would love to have the support and partner with more hospitals and other companies in south Dallas to bring resources to people in need.”
As a nurse, May raises awareness about the benefits of
healing at home, and she proudly lobbies to recruit more skilled nurses and physicians to south Dallas communities. Many of her team members are furthering their education, just as May did, by becoming nurses and pursuing master’s degrees.
“Everyone at Home Care Network is an example about how it is never too late to pursue your passion,” May says. “We can’t get tired of doing what is right. The cost of healthcare premiums and medications is going up, and so many of our patients are forced to choose between food and medication. We work every day with physicians and pharmacies to help. So much of the work we do goes unnoticed, but it’s the most important work—meeting people where they are and offering the help they need most.”
Susan Semmelmann
INTERIORS AND DESIGN
FOR TEXAS NATIVE SUSAN SEMMELMANN AND HER team, your style is their style. For 25 years, Semmelmann has been designing creative interiors throughout Dallas-Fort Worth and beyond that beautifully tells each client’s story. In addition, Semmelmann also spent 12 years in the custom homebuilding industry—experience that has become crucial for clients who hire her to design a home from the ground up.
“Whether the project is the design of an entire home, a room, or even a feature wall, we embrace the person and the project and honor how they live,” Semmelmann says. “We specialize in a huge range of styles; we never want to be locked to being known for one particular style. Having a creative mind means you can really go there in design and take it to the next level, which is what I love most about our work.”
Semmelmann Interiors is different from other design firms in that it offers far more than design services. “We in-house everything,” Semmelmann says. “We carry hundreds of lines of furnishings and accessories and manufacture our own floral. We travel the world to source fabrics directly from mills
and have our own workroom where we manufacture drapery and bedding as well. We recently extended into manufacturing our own furnishing product line and are launching our own lighting collection.”
Clients are, of course, fortunate to have this service at their fingertips, but Semmelmann, a member of ASID, believes a large part of a successful design process is sharing knowledge and ideas. Her firm’s 10,000-square-foot showroom in Fort Worth and its full line of furnishings and accessories are also available to other designers and industry trade professionals.
“My motto has always been that the spirit of living is in the giving,” she says. “When you find something special, share it to help others. If we can elevate others by enjoying what we all do, the outcome is phenomenal.”
FACE OF
FACES OF LATIN CUISINE
IT ALL STARTED IN APRIL 1986, WHEN GLORIA AND Jose Fuentes worked at a small Salvadorian eatery in Oak Cliff owned by Gloria’s sister. When she was ready to move on from her restaurant business, Gloria and Jose saw it as an opportunity for them to take over and showcase their passion for cooking and serving authentic Salvadorian cuisine.
Since then, Gloria’s® Latin Cuisine has been focused on fresh ingredients, creative recipes, and an ongoing commitment to their guests. A go-to favorite throughout Texas, Gloria’s has 17 locations throughout Dallas-Fort Worth, along with locations in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio.
Gloria Fuentes attributes the success of the restaurant to consistency—in the recipes and among the team. “We’re truly a family owned-and-operated business,” Gloria says. “We bring the love for our family’s recipes into every location. We also treat our employees like family, and many have been with us since we first opened in 1986.”
They recall the early days of the business, when Gloria and Jose weren’t sure their restaurant concept would be sustainable.
“We were inexperienced in running a restaurant back then, but we learned along the way,” Jose recalls. “We treated our guests the way we wanted to be treated. It took more than seven years of hard work and self-taught skills before we could open a second location. We owe our success to our employees and our guests.” That location, at Lemmon and Douglas in Uptown Dallas, is still in operation today and among the most popular.
At every Gloria’s Latin Cuisine location, people gather over the restaurant’s famous black bean dip, award-winning margaritas, Salvadorian favorites such as Pupusas and Churrasco Tipico, and Tex-Mex items. You can find a location near you at GloriasCuisine.com.
Left to right, front row: Nancy Fuentes, Gloria Fuentes, Glenda Fuentes
Left to right, back row: Hugo Santos, Jorge Ocampo, Brian Penrod, Jose Fuentes, Carlos Riveroll, Arturo Ramirez
gloriascuisine.com
Raja Mohan, M.D.
FACE OF
LIPOSUCTION
LIPOSUCTION HAS RECEIVED AN UPGRADE, AND Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Raja Mohan is considered the foremost expert in the newest technologies for liposuction, which produce better and safer results. Dr. Raj specializes in all types of plastic surgery involving the breast, body, and face, in addition to liposuction. His method of high-definition liposuction helps to create a more muscular, defined appearance in the treated areas.
“Hi-def liposuction focuses on defining the abdominal muscles and also muscles of the chest, back and extremities,” Dr. Raj says. “It has been exciting to offer my patients more advanced, state-of-the-art technology to help them meet their aesthetic goals, plus there is a shorter recovery because these new procedures are less invasive.”
Patients appreciate Dr. Raj’s gentle and compassionate bedside manner. He takes time with every patient to discuss their concerns and educates them about all options. “I am honest with patients about likely surgical outcomes, and I let them know what they should do to get great results. In addition
to the surgery, adhering to all post-operative guidelines are key to achieving the best outcome,” he says. “It involves maintaining a consistent diet and exercise regimen along with wearing compression garments and foam pads. I also work with massage therapists who help minimize swelling and fibrosis.”
Dr. Raj is board certified and fellowship trained in aesthetic plastic surgery. He attended MIT where he majored in mathematics before attending the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine where he graduated in the top 5% of his class. He completed his plastic surgery residency at the combined Johns Hopkins/University of Maryland plastic surgery program and studied under Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez who is credited with performing one of the most extensive face transplants in the world. After the completion of his residency, Dr. Raj completed an aesthetic surgery fellowship at Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute.
7777 Forest Lane, Suite c820 | Dallas, Texas 75230 469.301.1725 | rajamohanmd.com
Gregg
FACE OF
MENTAL HEALTH
THE ROAD FROM WORKING AN ENTRY-LEVEL position at a psychiatric hospital as a UNT student to founding one of Texas’ largest privately owned behavioral health services provider with more than 12 locations in Dallas-Fort Worth was a long one for Awstin Gregg, but it’s also one that he embarked up with compassion and intention from the first step.
“I fell in love with the work when I was a psychology student working at an inpatient psychiatric hospital,” he says. “At the same hospital, I progressed through different positions in seven years, from a mental health technician to therapist, an intake director to an administrator, and then eventually as the CEO of the same hospital. Throughout my journey, I loved what we did, but I always felt there was an entrepreneurial piece to myself, so in 2018 I formed Connections Wellness Group, which has become a wonderful story I will hopefully tell for the rest of my life.”
Gregg believes the focus of his business should be on the team first, encouraging those who encourage and supporting those who support others. Company culture is key, Gregg says, and his approach to employee satisfaction hasn’t gone
unnoticed. Connections Wellness Group has won more than 140 best-in-class awards at every location, including a prized Best Healthcare Places to Work in the Nation award in 2022. It is also one of the few mental health centers in the region to earn the Cognia accreditation to serve adolescents patients within the program. The organizations Gregg leads have created several hundred jobs, which have in turn treated hundreds of thousands of people across Texas and the U.S.
“We are in the service industry, so the best way to take care of our patients is to take care of our team,” he says. “Adding to the number of lives we touch and we serve—there is no greater purpose for us.”
Leaving the community, state, and even the world a better place is something close to Gregg’s heart, and in the space of mental health, he is contributing to this goal in an undeniable way.
Awstin
Judith Kirby, M.D., F.A.C.S.
OPHTHALMOLOGY
DR. JUDITH KIRBY HAS BEEN PRACTICING ophthalmology for more than 20 years. Her interests include general ophthalmology, especially cataract surgery, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and macular degeneration management. She often says that even after two decades in the field of ophthalmology, she can’t imagine spending her days doing anything more rewarding than caring for her patients’ eyes. “Vision is one of the greatest gifts a person could give. Ophthalmology is so much more than simply doing an eye exam. It is about restoring a person’s quality of life and, in some cases, even saving it,” she says.
Dr. Kirby routinely sees and treats a wide range of complex eye conditions and specializes in performing complicated surgical procedures. She offers intravitreal treatments of antiVEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) for macular degeneration and diabetes, along with the latest lens implant choices for cataract surgery. Her office has state-of-the-art, top-of-the-line equipment to better serve her patients’ needs. She has continued to maintain her board certification, which requires extensive
reexamination and recredentialing by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Her thorough, no-compromise approach to complete eye care has led to the detection of disease in other areas of the body, such as carotid artery disease, multiple sclerosis, melanoma, and brain tumors. “Communication with patients’ primary care doctors, endocrinologists, and neurologists is a crucial part of my role in helping patients achieve not just optimal eye health, but overall health,” she says.
Dr. Kirby prides herself on a very patient-oriented approach to her practice, giving a great deal of personal attention to each and every patient. Spending significant time with patients to ensure they fully understand their diagnosis and options is a hallmark of her practice. Her passion and practice mission is to maintain and protect your vision for a lifetime.
KIRBY EYE CENTER 10740 North Central Expressway, Suite 250 | Dallas, Texas 75231 214.253.0202 | kirbyeyecenter.com
FACE OF
LISA MEANS
Brody Hildebrand, D.D.S., M.S.
FACE OF
ORTHODONTICS
PRESTON HOLLOW ORTHODONTICS HAS BEEN creating gorgeous smiles in the Park Cities and North Texas for almost 50 years. The beautiful practice overlooking Preston Center brings together a multigenerational legacy of excellence in dental care. Dr. Brody Hildebrand, a specialist in orthodontics and prosthodontics, is now the third generation of orthodontists who proudly carries on the tradition of excellence in creating beautiful smiles for patients across Texas.
“We are incredibly proud of this boutique-style practice that provides individualized care for each patient,” Dr. Hildebrand says. “Our devoted team helps solve dental issues for patients and works closely with other dental specialists. The ability to lean on the expertise in both orthodontics and prosthodontics is an asset for all levels of patient care. We are well-rooted in the community, and our staying power can be attributed to our decades of service by caring orthodontists and team members who make individualized and personalized care their priority.”
Preston Hollow Orthodontics provides orthodontic care for
children and teens as well as specializes in adult orthodontia and complex ortho-restorative cases.
“It was not the initial goal to become known as the orthodontist who specializes in complex cases, but I love working with other orthodontists who refer their more difficult cases to our office,” Dr. Hildebrand says. “We employ the most up-to-date technology for our patients, but also use the artistry necessary to create the beautiful results our patients expect from our practice. My staff and I truly enjoy creating beautiful, healthy smiles and a positive orthodontic experience for our treasured patients.”
Preston Hollow Orthodontics offers the latest diagnostic and treatment technology available for routine and complex dental care. Treatments range from conventional braces to the latest esthetic orthodontic treatments, including clear braces, Invisalign, and Clarity clear orthodontic aligners.
PRESTON HOLLOW ORTHODONTICS 8411 Preston Road, Suite 850 | Dallas, Texas 75225 214.691.5621 | prestonhollowspecialists.com
Rachel Kozinn, M.D.; John Michels, M.D.
FACES OF
PAIN MEDICINE
DR. JOHN MICHELS IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE addition of Dr. Rachel Kozinn to ISP Health PLLC. Dr. Kozinn is specially trained in the utilization of minimally invasive ultrasound and fluoroscopically guided interventions to treat conditions such as neck pain, back pain, sciatica, herniated discs, joint pain, spinal stenosis, arthritis, vertebral compression fractures, failed back surgery syndrome (lumbar post-laminectomy syndrome), complex regional pain syndrome, headaches, neuropathy, and sports injuries. Her clinical philosophy is to focus on treating pain at its source instead of trying to mask pain with the utilization of dangerous, addictive, and potentially deadly narcotics. She is skilled in advanced procedural techniques such as spinal cord stimulation to treat chronic pain syndromes, radiofrequency ablation to treat chronic arthritis pain, and kyphoplasty to treat vertebral compression fractures.
Dr. Kozinn utilizes the most advanced diagnostic techniques to assess the underlying cause of pain. She then develops a multidisciplinary approach to treat the source of the pain and correct the underlying dysfunction that led to the pain developing
in the first place. She works in correlation with the best physical therapists, general practice physicians, chiropractors, neurologists, and spine surgeons to assure her patients have the best team approach to achieve their optimal health.
Dr. Kozinn comes from an internationally renowned medical family and understands the value of outstanding patient-centric care. She possesses a unique combination of knowledge and compassion which enables her to effectively communicate with her patients about their condition in a manner they can understand.
Dr. Kozinn is accepting new patients and takes all major insurance plans, including Medicare. Her office in conveniently located in Preston Center at the intersection of Northwest Highway and the Dallas North Tollway.
Beyond Pediatric Dentistry
FACES OF
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
DRS. CARLA DAMON, LORIA NAHATIS, AND TERRA Compton, all three mothers and board-certified pediatric dentists, are on the forefront of pediatric dentistry. They apply their parenting experience with their own children and expertise in pediatric anatomy, physiology, craniofacial growth and development, and how a child’s behaviors and habits affect dental health to help their patients thrive—starting from infancy. With more than 35 years of combined experience, they understand the importance of getting children excited and curious; this goes a long way in gaining their trust, acceptance, and compliance. Not only does their practice focus on routine pediatric dentistry, it also emphasizes an overall oral wellness approach, including early growth and development, myofunctional therapy, diagnosing and treating infant and child lip- and tongue-ties, and identifying problems associated with sleep disordered breathing. The practice collaborates and works closely with other Dallas-Fort Worth healthcare providers. Parents appreciate having a team to support their children and families. National leaders in their field, Drs. Damon and Nahatis have
been invited to speak about their expertise in early growth and development for the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Physiological Medicine and Dentistry. They recognize that the younger treatment begins, the more they can help children untangle their poor habits and improve growth patterns that put them at risk for suboptimal health.
Drs. Damon, Nahatis, and Compton inspire and empower children, and this is reflected in everything they do. Their mission is to make a positive impact in their patients’ lives by encouraging them to live an exceptional life by establishing healthy habits. Conveniently located in Preston Center, they look forward to helping each child look and feel their best. They create a path to wellness by looking at their patients’ teeth and beyond.
8411 Preston Road, Suite 200 | Dallas, Texas 75225 972.808.6825 | beyondpediatricdentistry.com
Left to right: Loria Nahatis, D.D.S.; Carla Damon, D.D.S.; Terra Compton, D.M.D.
Frenkel & Frenkel, L.L.P.
FACES OF
PERSONAL INJURY LAW
FOR 30 YEARS, FRENKEL & FRENKEL HAS CONTINUED to successfully hold negligent companies and individuals responsible for the consequences of their actions. Mark Frenkel, Scott Frenkel, and Gene Burkett have an award-winning history of results, representing clients in courtrooms nationwide who have suffered catastrophic injuries from the careless actions of others. They are advocates for their clients and persevere in the pursuit of justice and in every case. Frenkel & Frenkel handles commercial vehicle collisions as well as other personal injury cases. They are known for their results in representing clients who have suffered injuries from automobile, trucking, or motorcycle, collisions. As experienced and tenacious personal injury trial lawyers who previously defended insurance companies, hospitals, and doctors, they use their knowledge from the other side’s playbook to bring valuable insight to each case. They take the “counselors” part of “attorneys and counselors” very seriously and believe every client needs an advocate. They thoroughly prepare cases for trial, bringing in specialists, such as accident reconstructionists, audiovisual professionals,
engineers, medical experts, and economists, when needed. The firm also has an in office attorney/medical doctor who is an asset to clients due to expertise about the nature of complex injuries.
All three partners have been named Best Lawyers in Dallas the past eight years, were named Super Lawyers in Texas Monthly; a Thomson Reuters publication, from 2020-2023; Top Attorneys in Fort Worth Magazine the past four years; and Dallas Morning News Reader’s Choice awards for Best Personal Injury Lawyers in 2023. The success of Frenkel & Frenkel is best summarized by the clients they serve. Says client M. Hargrove, “After our wreck we were so confused about everything. Not only did they handle our legal matters, but they helped us with insurance paperwork and the recovery process. Witnessing them dealing with the opposing counsel was amazing.”
Left to right: Gene Burkett, Scott Frenkel, Mark Frenkel
Communities Foundation of Texas
FACES OF
PHILANTHROPY
AS THE LARGEST COMMUNITY FOUNDATION IN Texas and one of the largest in the nation, Communities Foundation of Texas has a vision of thriving communities for all, seeking to grow community giving, expand community impact, and advance community equity.
CFT works side by side with individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits through charitable funds and strategic grantmaking. CFT has awarded $2.5 billion in grants to nonprofits since its founding in 1953 and professionally manages more than 1,300 charitable funds. CFT leverages extensive community and gift planning knowledge to serve and understand donor needs, expertly handle complex gifts, and provide customized giving guidance.
Through CFT’s programs, such as CFT for Business, Educate Texas, Emerging Leaders in Philanthropy, GiveWisely, the Live Oak Society, and North Texas Giving Day, CFT helps maximize both generosity and impact. This year marked the 15th anniversary of CFT’s North Texas Giving Day, and $63.9 million was raised for more than 3,200 local nonprofits. Together,
a community of givers has fueled this incredible generosity movement, generating more than $566 million in impact for nonprofits since its inception in 2009.
CFT staff experts are always available to help you think through what matters most to you and how that can align with your giving strategy. Contact the team at your convenience to learn more about the benefits of charitable giving funds and how we can help you help others.
Left to Right: CFT’s newest executive and board leaders Rakesh Dahiya, Trustee; Calvert Collins-Bratton, Chief Relationship Officer; Wayne White, President/CEO; Andy Smith, Trustee; Katie Robbins, Trustee
| CFTexas.org
Tim Nguyen, D.M.D., F.A.G.D.
FACE OF
PORCELAIN VENEERS
IT’S NOT UNCOMMON FOR DR. TIM NGUYEN TO hear, “This is how my smile should have looked all along” once he completes a smile makeover. Dr. Nguyen specializes in all aspects of general and cosmetic dentistry, including crowns and veneers, at the longtime Plano practice Parker West Dental. Dr. Nguyen, a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, is a Dallas native and Jesuit alumnus. He earned his D.M.D. from Tufts School of Dental Medicine and completed his AEGD Residency at Lutheran Medical Center. In his ongoing effort to implement and provide the latest dental trends, technologies, and treatments, Dr. Nguyen routinely commits to more than 100 hours of continuing education annually. Dr. Nguyen enjoys all aspects of dentistry and has a special interest in cosmetic dentistry because of its positive impact on his patients. “We are able to return people’s smiles to them,” he says. “Over time, teeth can become broken, worn, or discolored, which can lead to a more aged appearance, and whether it’s a complete smile makeover or correcting one or a few teeth, cosmetic dentistry can make you look younger. It’s rewarding to see my patients smile again.”
Dr. Nguyen spends ample time with patients in their initial consultations, learning about their goals for their smiles and working together on appropriate treatment plans. “Whether it’s a consult or a second opinion, patients are genuinely excited to begin the process,” he says. “I always start by asking what they see when they smile—what they like and what they don’t like. What’s nice about cosmetic dentistry is that patients are just as enthusiastic about the process as I am.”
Parker West Dental is an energetic practice where patients feel at home and at ease. Dr. Nguyen works diligently to exceed patients’ expectations, and the friendly staff is expertly trained in all areas of dental care. Says Dr. Nguyen, “Many patients say they feel this practice is more than just a dentist office—it’s like a family, which is exactly what we hoped to achieve.” PARKER WEST DENTAL ASSOCIATES 4709 West Parker Road, Suite 515 | Plano, Texas 75093 972.985.0005 | parkerwestdental.com
Texas Center For Proton Therapy
FACES OF PROTON THERAPY
TEXAS CENTER FOR PROTON THERAPY HAS BEEN serving cancer patients in Dallas-Fort Worth and beyond for eight years. The Irving facility is one of approximately 40 centers in the U.S. and recently reached a milestone by treating its 4,000th patient. “We have improved the overall level of care for patients through a combination of technological advances, hard work, and gaining expertise on how to better utilize the technology we have,” says Dr. Andrew Lee, medical director. “As a team and as a center, we are proud of this accomplishment. Not only have we fine-tuned our existing technology and treatment techniques, we have developed new ones, which has kept us on the leading edge of proton therapy.”
The center has some of the most advanced technology available with three pencil-beam proton machines, which is the most sophisticated method of proton delivery, and the ability to do volumetric cone beam CT imaging when a patient is on the treatment table. Any cancer that requires radiation as a treatment component could likely be treated with proton therapy. Says Dr. Lee, “Proton therapy may be combined
with other treatments, such as chemotherapy and surgery. Minimizing normal tissue exposure may increase the patient’s tolerability of other concurrent treatment.”
The team at Texas Center for Proton Therapy believes the goal of proton therapy treatment is not only to rid patients of cancer, but to maximize their quality of life during their treatment and beyond—even decades later. “Most people with cancer still have to work and raise their families, which is why we try to preserve and minimize treatment-related side effects,” Dr. Lee says. “We understand that a cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment course, can be difficult for patients. This does not define them, and we understand they have full lives to lead.”
Left to right: Jared Sturgeon, M.D., Ph.D.; Andrew Lee, M.D., MPH; Victor Mangona, M.D.
Randy Burks
STEAKHOUSES
THE PATH FROM SERVER AT A CHAIN RESTAURANT to owning the oldest restaurant in Frisco was a winding one for Randy Burks, but it makes perfect sense once you trace each step. Burks has owned Randy’s Steakhouse since 1993—his first business and his last job. “I started out stocking groceries in the middle of the night and realized I had to do something else, so I took a server job at a Black-eyed Pea restaurant,” Burks says. “I loved the energy of the restaurant, but needed to make more money. My parents took me to dinner one night at Del Frisco’s. I immediately knew I wanted to work there, so I went to the library to research the restaurant to make a good impression. The owner, Dale, overheard my interview and followed me out to my car and said, ‘If you want to work here, show up at 5 p.m.’”
Burks showed up. He waited tables for only a few days before he realized his temperament was best suited for the kitchen. He learned how to cook a great steak and later opened Randy’s Country Kitchen in Frisco. He heard the owner of an iconic historic home on Main Street was looking for the right buyer. Burks had a
vision to rebrand his restaurant into a fine dining steakhouse in a Victorian home; this home, built in 1869, could be the one. “I sat with the owner on the front porch and had tea with her and she agreed to sell it to me for $550,000,” he says. “The last appraisal we got was $2.4 million, so it was a good exchange.”
In addition to a family home, the historic structure has been a dry goods store, a doctor’s office, and a railroad stop. Burks made necessary updates through the years but was careful to preserve its integrity. Burks is in the restaurant every day, and he personally shops the farmer’s market for fresh produce and prefers to handselect the steaks and seafood. If he’s not greeting diners, you’ll find him in the kitchen cooking his famed steaks. For 31 years, Randy’s Steakhouse has been a beloved destination for family celebrations, anniversaries, proposals, and holiday toasts with friends. Randy’s feels like home—because it is.
RANDY’S STEAKHOUSE
7026 Main Street | Frisco, Texas 75033
972.335.3066 | randyssteakhouse.com
FACE OF
FACES OF
TEXAS COMMUNITY BANKING
VERITEX COMMUNITY BANK WAS FOUNDED ON relationships and continues to make decisions every day based on its close relationships with customers. Rudy Beeching, retail director, and Jeff Kesler, SEVP and president of the Dallas-Fort Worth market, are the faces of Veritex’s commercial business banking division and are committed to helping customers grow their businesses. Customers know they can contact them at any time because community banking truly means something to them; they live, work, and raise their families in the same communities as well.
“Every day Veritex is entrusted with the money of people in our community,” Kesler says. “Veritex is different because we are listening and learning about a business and truly understanding what its needs are, then developing a solution solely for that business. Our goal is to not only find out the best way to serve our customers, but to discover how they want to be served. What drives that company? That is the question we ask to tailor a solution.” Beeching adds, “We are mindful in our follow-up. We stay in touch with our clients and call them, rather than waiting
for them to call us. Once a relationship has been developed, it’s collaborative. We provide a constant level of care.”
Veritex plans to expand into more communities in 2024 and continue its growth and progress in commercial banking. This is a bank built by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs—Veritex speaks its clients’ language. Beeching has been in banking for 42 years, five with Veritex. He says the company culture, people, and customers are unmatched and appreciates how Veritex approaches business with a servant’s heart. “We serve our clients and each other very well,” he says. Kesler was employee No. 2 at Veritex when it was founded in 2010. “Our bank’s tagline is very telling,” Kesler says. “Veritas is the Latin word for ‘truth’—and Veritex is truth in Texas banking—a brand built on truth, integrity, and transparency.”
Left to right: Rudy Beeching, Director of Retail and Business Banking; Jeff Kesler, SEVP and President of Dallas-Fort Worth Market
veritexbank.com
TUMMY TUCK
DR. STEVEN J. WHITE FOUNDED USA PLASTIC Surgery based on his commitment to excellence. His attention to detail, precise surgical technique, and exceptional results led to his inclusion among the world’s best cosmetic plastic surgeons in the book entitled, “Plastic Surgery—The World’s Top Surgeons & Clinics.” Dr. White is sought after by patients throughout the country for his excellent results in abdominoplasty. He developed the TummySculpt™ Tummy Tuck to create a sculpted abdomen, a more natural belly button, and typically a fine-line scar well hidden beneath the bikini line. In addition to a beautiful belly button and a smaller waist, Dr. White’s TummySculpt™ also lifts the top and outer thighs and buttocks. Dramatic results can be achieved by removing both the excess fat and skin and by tightening the abdominal muscles stretched by pregnancy. A patient’s pain and recovery time depend on two things—how the procedure is performed and how the patient is cared for after surgery. Precise techniques result in minimal blood loss, which allows for little bruising and a quick recovery. By using innovative techniques, state-of-the-art technology,
and specialized instruments, Dr. White can offer his patients beautiful results with less discomfort and a quick recovery. Precision surgery may take longer, but it is worth the extra effort. Performance counts, both in the operating room and after surgery. Dr. White believes there are no shortcuts to knowledge and experience. He is among the few plastic surgeons in the United States certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery (ENT), a culmination of eight years of intensive residency training after medical school. Dr. White has been recognized as one of D Magazine’s Best Doctors in Dallas the last 19 years. See his before-and-after photos, read patient testimonials, and discover the difference at drstevenjwhite.com, Where Surgery Becomes Art™ USA PLASTIC SURGERY Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas | Professional Building 3, Suite 814 8230 Walnut Hill Lane | Dallas, Texas 75231 | 469.813.8807 drstevenjwhite.com
FACE OF
VANESSA
Steven J. White, M.D.
Anna M. Toker, M.D.
WELLNESS
IN HER MORE THAN TWO DECADES AS A COLORECTAL surgeon, Dr. Anna Toker has won numerous awards for her mastery of surgery. During this time, she has developed a passion for overall wellness and educating her patients and the public about how nutrition can help them avoid surgery or recover faster from surgery. Dr. Toker has garnered an impressive following on all social media platforms. Her informative online education about gut health and microbiome has earned almost 100,000 followers on Instagram (@drannatoker) alone. “It is my commitment to serve the community with the same dedication I have for my patients,” she says. “Whether a patient needs major surgery or not, a large portion of my discussions revolve around normalizing intestinal function.”
Dr. Toker’s online educational program, “Gut Check,” includes 100 daily conversations regarding digestion and the interaction of the microbiome in every aspect of one’s life. “This program represents more than 30 years of experience, first as a microbiologist and then as a colorectal surgeon—and it costs less than the price of a consultation,” Dr. Toker says. She also offers
free online resources on microbiome at drannatoker.com. Dr. Toker has a recurring segment on brintx.tv television show called “Food Freedom.” She recently helped develop a new digestive aid product, Zive 7, which will be available in March 2024. It has digestive enzymes, bitters, and a biotope 7 blend of prebiotic and probiotics designed to support blood sugar control and digestive health. For existing and new patients, Dr. Toker also offers convenient telehealth consultations about digestive nutrition. In addition to her M.D., Dr. Toker earned a master’s degree in microbiology with a focus on the microbiome. In addition to her colorectal surgery practice, Dr. Toker also serves as medical director of SKANDii MedSpa, focusing on facial esthetics, nonsurgical weight loss, treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction, and body sculpting in the MedGym. Outside of her busy medical and aesthetic practices, Dr. Toker enjoys spending time with her husband and their children on their small farm in Waxahachie.
3150 East Broad Street, Suite 100 | Mansfield, Texas 76063 214.942.3740 | drtoker.com | skandiimedspa.com
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