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An Advertising Supplement to Denton Record-Chronicle
ON LOCAL BUSINESSES Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Meet the People Behind These Local Businesses Access 1st Capital Bank . . . . . .13 Bonded Lightning Protection . . .22 Bonduris Music . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Bookkeeper Girl, Inc . . . . . . . . .17 Community Pharmacy . . . . . . . . .8 Cupboard Natural Foods & Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Denton Record-Chronicle . . . . .16 Denton Sewing Center . . . . . . .17 First State Bank . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Flooring America . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Good Samaritan Society – Denton Village . . . . . . . . . . . .10 James Wood AutoPark . . . . . . . .24 Koons Fuller Family Law . . . . . . .9 Meridian Bank Texas . . . . . . . . .21 Northstar Bank of Texas . . . . . .19 Point Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Tommy’s Hi Tech Auto . . . . . . . . .6
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lator (ICD). These work by shocking the rhythm back to normal. Some people with advanced heart failure, who meet certain indications, might need protection from heart rhythm disturbances in both ventricles. Placing an ICD designed for both ventricles (bi-ventricular ICD) can provide additional benefits for improvement of symptoms. In some cases, a person might need a pacemaker and an ICD. While all ICD’s are also pacemakers, pacemakers can only pace and do not have ICD functions. Once any of these devices are implanted, you need to follow-up with your cardiologist or your cardiac electrophysiologist on a regular basis. Today, the field of electrophysiology provides advanced options for the diagnosis and treatment of rhythm disorders. Device therapies provide key responses and support for underlying rhythm conditions. Precisely targeted ablation therapies such as the use of radiofrequency or cryotherapy are generally safe, can be curative and have no longterm consequences. So, if you are having symptoms, seek a medical diagnosis and treatment. Then, with your doctor’s approval, you are ready to rock and roll or two-step or salsa. Anyway, if you want to dance the night away, at least your heart’s got rhythm!
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Rhythm needed for more than dancing Although dancing yields many heart-healthy benefits of aerobic exercise, the heart itself performs rhythmic contractions that pump blood throughout your body. The normal heart is a beating muscle controlled by a well-choreographed electrical conduction system that determines your heart rate and rhythm. Cardiac Electrophysiology (EP) is the study of the rhythm of the heart, both normal and abnormal. The human heart is designed to beat in an organized and synchronized fashion with both upper chambers (atria) beating before the lower chambers (ventricles). This allows the blood to come back from the body to the upper, right chamber and return from the lungs to the upper, left chamber. The blood then moves to the ventricles where it is pumped out of the heart. This systematic contraction of the heart muscle occurs through coordinated activity of the cardiac conduction (“electrical”) system. Abnormalities in the heart’s electrical system may lead to conditions that can cause illness and some of these might be life threatening. You do not routinely notice your heart beating until it becomes too slow or too fast or becomes irregular and you experience symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness or syncope (loss of consciousness). If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Conditions such as wear and tear or loss of function of the heart’s natural “pacemaker” (sinus node) in the upper, right chamber of the heart can usually be treated with a pacemaker. The pacemaker is required to send out an electrical impulse when it does not detect one coming from your
own heart. Some pacemakers are designed to detect heartbeats that are too fast and they take over to slow down the rate. Implanting these safety devices is a common procedure so most likely you know someone who has one. Sometimes, when the sinus node doesn’t perform properly, other cells take over. When that happens the impulse does not typically follow the normal pathway from the upper chamber to and through a tissue bundle at the bottom of the atria known as the atrioventricular node (AV node). This causes a faster or slower heart rate or multiple cells can take over creating an irregular heartbeat. The most common, chaotic, disorganized heartbeats coming from the atria are known as a condition called atrial fibrillation. An abnormal rate or irregular rhythm can impact blood flow to the brain and other parts of the body. Based on what is actually occurring, there are a variety of treatments ranging from medications to use of a guided catheter into the heart to track down actual pathways that are causing the problems. Once the pathway is “mapped” in an electrophysiology study performed by a specially, trained cardiologist called an electrophysiologist, this rhythm can then be interrupted (ablated) by using a radiofrequency or cold (cryo) signal to targeted cells. Once the abnormal pathway is disrupted, the appropriate cells can take over. Ablating targeted cells results in a cure most of the time. Heart conditions that lead to inadequate pumping of the ventricles can have dangerous heart rhythms that start from cells in the ventricle instead of from the atria. These need to be controlled through small electrical shocks provided by placement of an implantable cardioverter defibril-
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THERE’S A NEW LEADER IN HEART CARE. And it’s Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton, offering the most complete heart care around. To begin with, we’re opening Denton’s only comprehensive Electrophysiology Lab, led by a renowned specialist named a top cardiologist by the International Association of Cardiologists. It offers advanced treatment for people suffering from heart rhythm disturbances and severe heart failure. Through specialized mapping techniques, we can reprogram the heart’s rate or rhythm or program an implanted device for lifesaving support. We also offer additional heart care services such as an accredited chest pain center, diagnostics, angioplasty, coronary stenting, invasive heart surgeries and certified cardiac rehabilitation. What it all adds up to is you have a choice in heart care in Denton. 1-877-THR-Well | TexasHealth.org/DentonHeart Doctors on the medical staff practice independently and are not employees or agents of the hospital. © 2010
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4 Flooring America has best of both worlds Accent
Sep. 10
Kelby Frederick’s earliest memories are of working with his father at wholesale trade shows, setting up displays and flooring samples. After 21 years in the wholesale carpet business, his father opened a retail store on March 11, 1987. Against the long odds of surviving as a start-up business during a recession and real estate bust, the company thrived because of the hard work and dedication of his parents, Roger and Margy Frederick. They decided they wanted to control their own destiny and chose to enter the retail segment of the flooring industry. After Kelby Frederick entered the family business, they joined a buying group, CarpetMAX. In 2000, CarpetMAX changed names to Flooring America and merged with the world’s largest retail flooring company, CCA Global Partners. Most recently, in early 2010, Frederick merged stores with Houston area My Flooring America owner Scott Steel. The pair currently operates six family-owned locations in the area, including the My Flooring America of Denton and a new location in Flower Mound. Frederick and Steel were very excited about their merger. “It has always been our mission to serve our customers the best we can. And as our number of customers grew, we decided we needed to grow our family of stores to better meet their needs,” said Steel. As members of the Flooring America co-op, Frederick and Steel are represented by a management team that oversees more than $6 billion worth of flooring business around the globe. This unique relationship enables the families to offer exclusive products, price points and warranties to their customers. My Flooring America boasts an industry best installation warranty for the life of the product, an exceptional LowPrice Guarantee, and a one-of-a-kind Five Star Selection System. The Frederick and Steel families have a combined 61 years of experience in the flooring business, and pride themselves on their legacy of dedicated service and community involvement. “We are in a very unique position to be the largest buyer and seller of floor covering in the world, and yet, still be locally owned and operated,” said Frederick. It’s likely that this unique combination of small business service and national-chain buying power has
Kelby Frederick, owner of Flooring America, stands in the showroom which offers a wide variety of products. enabled the families grow their business despite an economy that has left many of their competitors in decline. “The biggest misconception is that people think they can save money buying from home centers, national outlet chains and the Internet,” he said. “These companies do a fabulous job of advertising they are the low-price leader. However, when a client goes through the exercise of obtaining a full estimate to complete their flooring project — the final result is a specialty store is the same price, if not cheaper.” My Flooring America of Denton provides materials and certified professional installation of carpeting, hardwood, ceramic tile, natural stone, laminate, vinyl and all flooring items to anyone interested in redecorating or upgrading their home to fit their unique tastes. The store uses only certified installers who undergo a criminal background check as well as an immigration check, which gives clients the most professional experience possible. My Flooring America also has a large Outside Sales Division that provides service to a very diverse client base, working with custom homebuilders, commercial contractors, designers, architects, churches, retirement centers, real estate bro-
kers, foreclosures and property management companies, both commercial and residential. The store also features a dedicated division that specializes in insurance claims and provides service to a homeowner during a loss. The company is an approved vendor with State Farm, Farmers, Allstate, Nationwide, Encompass and USAA. Frederick has lived in Denton County since 1979. He attended school in Lake Dallas and graduated from high school in 1989. His wife, Kristi, was born and raised in Flower Mound and graduated from Marcus High School in 1990. They both attended the University of North Texas. They have four children who were all born in Denton — Rylie, 12, Cooper, 10, Kenlie, 6, and Marlie, 4. Frederick is also a trustee and an adult discipleship teacher at GracePointe Church. He was also the recipient of the Flooring America National Award for Leadership in 2001, 2003 and 2004. The Flooring America of Denton store also received the Flooring America National Award for Merchandising in 2001. Co-owner Scott Steel currently serves on CCA Global Partners Board of Directors, as well as serving on the Board of Directors at Trinity Pines
Baptist Encampment. Both My Flooring America of Denton owners serve on the board of directors for the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA). Steel is the current Chairman of the Board, and Frederick is the current chairman of the Quality and Standards Committee within the organization. My Flooring America of Denton is a member of the Denton, Lake Cities and Aubrey chambers of commerce and the Denton Home Builders Association. “Our tag line is ‘With you every step of the way,’” Frederick said. “We are not perfect, but our commitment is to stand beside our clients and take care of anything they need. Our business has been built on repeat and referral business. We do not believe in giving up after the installation. Our desire is to create a relationship with our clients that lasts a lifetime and spans generations.” My Flooring America of Denton is located at 3008 S. Interstate 35E, next to Achiever’s Gymnastics and near the Cinemark theater at Unicorn Lake. Hours are Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. To learn more, visit www.myflooringamerica.com or call 940- 565-0199.
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Personal Service and Guaranteed Professional Installation – Always!
Over 17,000 Floors To Choose From!
The My Flooring America Difference: Satisfaction Price Confidence Exclusive Lifetime Assurance Protection Installation Plus™ Five Star-Rated Warranty Guarantee Guarantee Warranty Warranties
ASK ABOUT FINANCING OPTIONS!
ll, Owners L rii & Scott Stee Lo
You can always count on My Flooring America for a guaranteed low price, lifetime installation warranties, and outstanding service that’s second to none.
DENTON 3008 S. Interstate 35 E. 940-565-0199 OUR NEWEST LOCATION:
FLOWER MOUND 3001 Long Prairie Rd. 972-691-2393 Kelby & Kristi Fred erick, Owners
Also Serving: Sugar Land, Webster, Katy & Texarkana
Shop online at www.myflooringamerica.com • Friend us on Facebook • Follow us on Twitter I2
6 Tommy’s Auto Shops: Quality and Honesty Accent
Sep. 10
Tommy’s Hi Tech Auto and Tommy’s Honda & Toyota are owned and operated by Tommy and Kathy Drisdale. Located at 620 Ft. Worth Drive and 219 Ft. Worth Drive, both businesses offer top quality auto repair in a friendly family atmosphere. Ninety-three percent of Tommy’s customers come from referrals because customers know that Tommy does all he can to provide the best solutions for repairing their vehicles. Tommy knows most of his customers on a personal basis as many have been with him since he first opened in 1991. With ASE certified techs, a platinum level GM tech, two Ford certified techs and a tech certified by both Ford and GM, Tommy’s Hi Tech Auto provides up-to-date knowledge with its very latest in diagnostic technology. Both locations offer the same knowledge and philosophy: To give the best service on a professional level, using the finest parts and equipment available, and to finish on time at a fair price with all work guaranteed. In Tommy’s spare time now days, he concentrates on his haunted house. It gets bigger and better each year with new and exciting projects. There will be new scare tactics this year to get your blood pumping. Tommy and Kathy look forward to seeing you there. In the meantime, stop by and visit them at one of their two locations for your automotive needs. As always, they appreciate your patronage. And don’t forget to stop by closer to Halloween for a map Tommy and Kathy Drisdale, owners and directions to the haunted house. See you soon!
Expires Oct. 31, 2010
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Denton’s Full Service Natural Foods Store 7
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This locally owned 12,000-square-foot natural foods store has been a Denton fixture since 1965. Their Nutrition Department (vitamins and personal care) focuses on professional expertise with a personal touch. “Customer service is our business, and our number one priority” says Paul Tanis, store owner and manager. “Taking supplements and herbal remedies can be very effective, and our core staff is very well trained with over 40 years combined experience. “We have the resources and experience to help you choose the most effective and safe supplements available, according to your unique circumstances. “Our Nutrition Manager has been with us for over 10 years, and takes research and training very seriously”, Tanis goes on to say. The Cupboard takes natural foods very seriously as well, routinely scrutinizing the products they offer. They feature locally grown organic produce, family farm organic milk, local cage-free eggs, and local grass fed Longhorn beef. They also are well stocked on the more common natural foods selections. Special diet needs customers look no further. The Cupboard has the largest gluten free, raw foods, natural frozen foods and organic dairy
Meet the people behind the business selection in Denton, with fresh made vegan and
Pablo Balabuch, supplement buyer
David Logan, supplement buyer
gluten free baked goods as well. The all natural award winning cafe and deli with patio seating offers Organic Breakfast and a lunch menu with selections from different cultures. Try the new Falafel Pita with Tomato Peach Chutney or the Smoked Turkey Ajo Verde. They also use all Organic Fair Trade Coffee and
have Dairy-Free Tofutti frozen soft serve for your
Lovely Murrell, nutrition manager
Paul Tanis, general manager
sweet tooth. The Cupboard is located mid-way between UNT and TWU, on the corner of Elm and Congress, just four blocks north of the fabulous Denton downtown square. For information, check them out online at www.cupboardnaturalfoods.com.
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Sep. 10
Community Pharmacy: Growing and Expanding Community Pharmacy has been serving Denton for nearly 30 years. Now with the opening of the new location, the caring staff can offer more products and services than ever before. An expansion of the front end and waiting area give patients and shoppers plenty of custom gifts perfect for every occasion. “We offer an extensive range of pharmaceuticalgrade herbal and natural products,” said owner Kelly Selby. “Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the product you need.” “Our mission is to deliver the highest quality pharmaceutical care possible on a very personal and individual basis,” he added. “We want our patrons to feel that these services have been provided by a learned friend.” The expansion with the new store does not stop in
“We want out patrons to feel that these services have been provided by a learned friend.” — Kelly Selby, owner the gift area. The compounding lab and regular prescription preparations areas have more than doubled, allowing Community Pharmacy to offer a wider variety of medications to fit each patient’s needs. The pharmacy staff of nearly 20 employees focuses on maintaining your health and wellness by offering routine prescriptions as well as compounded specialized medications prescribed by your doctor. In order to meet all prescription needs, they have also added a state-of-the-art clean room to the compounding lab, which allows them to compound sterile medications.
What is compounding? Compounding combines an ageless art with the latest medical knowledge and state-of-the-art technology, allowing specially trained professionals to prepare customized medications to meet each patient’s specific needs. Preparation of these specialized medications requires chemicals and equipment that are not available in most pharmacies. “We have filled prescriptions for every family member,” said Shelby. “From cats and dogs, to pediatrics, to women’s hormone treatments, to hospice care, even a zebra and a snake or two for a zoo – we work together
Compounding & Wellness Specialists “Serving Denton Since 1981” (940) 382-1618 • Fax (940) 898-1986 4400 Teasley Ln. Suite 100 Denton, Texas 76210
with prescribers to solve medication problems by compounding specialized medications which meet the unique needs of each patient or animal.” Kelly Selby grew up in Union City, Okla., and graduated from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1981. Nancy Selby grew up in Edmond, Okla., and received her bachelor of science in pharmacy degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1982. Their two children are 18year-old Emily, who just began her freshman year at Oklahoma University, and 14year-old Erin. The family belongs to First United Methodist Church in Denton. Kelly and Nancy Selby are members of the Denton Chamber of Commerce, the Texas Pharmacist Association and the National
Community Pharmacist Association. Kelly is also the only Denton County pharmacist that is a full fellow with the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists. Kelly was awarded the Innovative Pharmacist of the Year by the Texas Pharmacist Association in 1993 for his work in compounding. “There is nothing more satisfying that helping a patient find the solution to their problem,” he stated. “We really enjoy working with people.” “In the last quarter of a century we have seen many and improved changes in pharmaceutical care, and we intend to stay on the cutting edge of your care,” he added. “Our employees will assist you as you seek quality pharmaceutical care.” The pharmacy is located at 4400 Teasley Lane, Suite 100.
Pharmacists: Kelly & Nancy Selby Andy Komuves, Deeatra Craddock, Georgia Leech & Harold Wright
www.communitypharmacy.com The highest quality pharmaceutical care possible on a very personal & individual base NOW OPEN IN OUR NEW LOCATION
• • • •
Compounding Specialized Medications Immunizations Health Screenings Hormone Replacement Counseling & Saliva Testing • On-line Refills • Therapeutic Shoes & Foot Analysis
Regular Flu Vaccine
NOW AVAILABLE
Meeting the unique needs of each patient Store Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am - 6:00pm – Saturdays 9:00am - 2:00pm I2
Reputation. Resources. Results. 9
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Koons Fuller provides Top-Rated Family Law Services from Denton Office When you face a difficult family law issue, the essential factors in the selection of a law firm are reputation, resources and results. For the firm Koons Fuller, these factors are necessary to a practice focused on the best interests of clients and their families. Reputation. Koons Fuller is one of the most renowned family law boutiques in the nation. Each year, D Magazine honors firm attorneys as some of the best family lawyers in North Texas and Texas Super Lawyers as some of the best in the state. The firm is rated tops among family law firms in Texas by The Best Lawyers in America. US News and World Report recently gave the firm a Tier One rating among family law firms in the Dallas area. “Koons Fuller is the southwest’s largest family law firm with 27 attorneys in four North Texas locations,” says Denton Managing Partner Charla Bradshaw Conner, who is listed among D Magazine’s Best Women Lawyers, the Top 100 Lawyers in Dallas/Fort Worth and Texas’ Best Lawyers. “We are fortunate to have a firm with this many fine legal minds serving clients who will only accept quality family law services. ” Firm members are legendary for leadership in the legal community. Charla Bradshaw Conner is immediate past president of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists (TAFLS), the association of board certified family lawyers. Heather King, Managing Partner of the Southlake office, is the current president of TAFLS and former president of the Tarrant County Bar Association. Firm Managing Partner Ike Vanden Eykel is president of the Dallas Bar Association. Kevin Fuller is last year’s Family Lawyer of the Year for North Texas and head of the Collaborative Law Section of the State Bar of Texas. Resources. With more attorneys than a typical family law firm, Koons Fuller has at least one who is perfectly suited to each client, no matter the size of the marital estate or the complexity of the parties’ lives. This attorney will be that client’s personal crusader. But the firm also provides access to the creative mindset and diligent work ethic of other Koons Fuller attorneys who are espe-
Sep. 10
Koons Fuller attorneys selected this summer among Texas’ Best Lawyers are, from left, Karen Turner; Heather King (Southlake Managing Partner); Kevin Fuller, Julie Crawford; Rick Robertson; Mike DeBruin; Charla Bradshaw Conner (Denton Managing Partner); and Aubrey Connatser. cially knowledgeable about fashioning premarital agreements, handling large estates, dealing with child custody, valuing businesses, dividing retirement assets, handling cases from inception through appeals and other areas of family law. If Koons Fuller attorneys find that they need other professional assistance to buttress their efforts, they have the wherewithal to call in experts such as marriage and family therapists, certified public accountants, financial planners and appraisers. This firm’s size and ability gives divorcing people across North Texas the greatest possible choice of attorney personality and strategic thinking. “Residents of Denton and Tarrant counties can employ an attorney in the Denton or Southlake offices or anyone with the firm across the area,” says Heather King, who is cited among the area’s top attorneys by Fort Worth, Texas Magazine, the Top 50 Women Lawyers in Texas by Texas Monthly and Texas’ Best Lawyers by American Legal Media. Results. Koons Fuller looks at results in the broadest possible sense. It’s not just the outcome of a single hearing or trial. Result is not just the moment of divorce. It’s what happens in your life. Family law is about the future, and Koons Fuller attorneys endeavor to insure the
future and that of each family member. “We identify what’s most important to you and work our hardest to retain those essential items,” says firm vice president Rick Robertson. It could be the marital residence or other personal assets. If the couple has children, custody and visitation are usually prime concerns. If the marital estate includes extensive business interests or a family-owned company, Koons Fuller is especially adept at keeping those assets intact and working toward a bright financial future. “We are now seeing people who have put off divorce for a couple of years,” says Ike Vanden Eykel. “This normally happens at the end of a recession. People have been struggling for a couple of years, and that struggle takes its toll.” Koons Fuller provides the following services for clients who want unparalleled results: Complex divorce litigation Property settlements of all sizes Marital and third-party agreements Asset tracing, valuation and division Child custody, visitation and support Paternity services Family law appeals Mediation and/or arbitration Collaborative law
Denton Office
320 W. Eagle Drive Suite 200 Denton 76201 940 442-6677
Southlake Town Square Office
181 Grand Avenue Suite 225 Southlake 76092 817 481-2710
West Plano Office
5700 W. Plano Parkway Suite 2200 Plano 75093 972 769-2727
Uptown Dallas Office
2311 Cedar Springs Road Suite 300 Dallas 75201 214 871-2727
10 Good Samaritan Society-Denton Village: Accent
Sep. 10
Celebrating 34 years of service to the area In 1922 the Rev. August Hoeger was serving as a pastor in Arthur, N.D. A fellow pastor put a challenge in the church newsletter for readers to donate two pennies to finance treatment for a young boy with polio. Money flowed in, and a surplus of $2,000 remained. The Rev. Hoeger suggested that this money be used to help other individuals with disabilities, and to that end, the Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society was formed. The society is first and foremost a Christian organization. Although it began as a facility for persons with physical and mental disabilities, the society soon expanded its services to include older adults. While the society has grown during the past 88 years, its mission has remained the same: to share God’s love in word and deed by providing shelter and supportive services to older persons and others in need, believing that “In Christ’s love, everyone is someone.”
Location: 2500 Hinkle Drive Directions: From Interstate 35E, take Exit 469 (University Drive/U.S. Highway 380), and go east 1.7 miles. Turn left onto Hinkle. The facility is 1/2 mile on your right. Business office hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Closed major holidays.
The society owns 240 facilities in 24 states. Good Samaritan Society was asked to come to Denton by a group of foresighted individuals who recognized the need for retirement housing in this community. In 1973, a community fund drive, chaired by Tom Harpool, raised the funds to purchase the land at 2500 Hinkle Drive. It was the hard work of well-known community members such as the Rev. Fred Cassell, Frank Hall, Tom Harpool and Tom Noel, who were part of the original planning committee, which resulted in the establishment of Good Samaritan
Society-Denton Village. The facility opened in September 1976. This month, the Denton Village celebrates 34 years of service to seniors in our community. Good Samaritan has offered the unique retirement housing option of twin home living since 1980. We now have a total of 60 units. Large units from 1,200 to 2,000plus square feet are offered. Residents give up lawn care and home maintenance but keep a sense of being in their own home, according to Virginia McDaniel, director of Resident Services. “They also give up property taxes and homeowners’ insurance,” Virginia emphasizes. One resident says that she and her husband chose living in a twin home because they could downsize from their large home, yet still keep all of their important furnishings. She also was able to pick out her choice of wall color and carpet. An apartment option would not have felt
like home to her. She also appreciates the fact that a security attendant is always on duty and will quickly respond in case of an emergency. There are many activities to enjoy at Good Samaritan. Exercise classes, interesting and informative lectures, outings in Denton and throughout the metroplex are just some of the offerings. Restaurant-style dining is also available each day for all three meals. Since the units have large, well-equipped kitchens, some residents cook most of their own meals. To schedule a personal tour, contact Virginia McDaniel at 940-3836347.
Maybe you’re wondering if it’s time to leave behind the work and worries of living at home. But for what? Perhaps for a place where there’s more to life than buildings and amenities. At the end of the day, there is a difference between finding a place you can stay and finding a place you never want to leave. It’s something you’re invited to see for yourself by paying us a visit. To learn more about our retirement living in Denton, call (940) 383-6347.
T
he best time to make your move is now. The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society provides housing and services to qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, or other protected statuses according to applicable federal, state or local laws. All faiths or beliefs are welcome. 09-G1624 I2
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*Potential savings based on 1000 transactions per month x 12 months, plus service charges where applicable.
PointBank encourages customers to ‘move your money’ PointBank, a Denton County, TX based bank, has been answering the question of “Why use a community bank?” for over 126 years. They are now using their expertise and success as a strong, stable community bank to initiate North Texas’ participation in the nationwide ‘Move Your Money’ campaign. The ‘Move Your Money’ campaign is a growing movement to move money out of big national banks and into local community banks. “North Texas is fortunate to have several great Denton County based community banks to turn to” said Ray David, Jr. President of PointBank. “Consumers are needlessly paying higher fees, risking their hard-earned assets, and being denied loans by big banks that received billions in taxpayer bailout dollars. We are letting them know that this can stop today by moving to locally owned community banks that are financially strong and focused on the consumer relationship.” David adds, “The great news is that new technology allows community banks to offer the same services as the big banks…. So the
Ray David, president big difference is what we do for our community. Try to find a big bank that supports your kids, your schools, your churches and the entire community like we do….you can’t, so what are you waiting for?” PointBank has remained focused on businesses and individuals through the years. An innovative leader among community banks in
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Denton County, PointBank was the first community bank to offer totally free checking and is currently the only community bank to offer depository ATMs. Most recently, PointBank is the first bank in Denton County to offer a Free Business Checking with 1000 items free of charge. “Most banks offer 200 or 300 items free and charge a fee over and above that limit. This can be quite costly for a business over the course of a year. We felt it was time for a community bank to make a significant change that would help businesses with their bottom line,” said David. According to research, businesses can save up to and over $3,000 per year in per-item fees and service charges if they switch to PointBank from Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or BBVA Compass (Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, a worldwide financial services group based in Bilbao, Spain.) David continued, “While not everyone will save $3000, if one customer even saves $500 a year in this economy, we feel that is significant, and
so do our customers.” “Not only is PointBank saving me $1,900 a year, they are always friendly and available to help us with our business questions,” said 11-year customer Mark Kerr, owner of Comet Cleaners. Another longtime customer, Dwayne Waters, owner of Briscoe Tire, says “PointBank saves me over $600 per year and they have been there to help me grow my business over the years.” For more than 126 years, through both thriving and uncertain economic times, PointBank has remained dedicated to offering businesses and individuals the most cutting edge products and services, but with personal service that only a community bank can offer . Today, PointBank is a leader in community support, a trusted business partner, and a stable financial resource. PointBank has 9 branches and 22 ATM locations in Denton County. Please visit www.PointBank.com or any of our branches today to experience why banking with PointBank is truly A Better Way to Bank.
Reasons to MOVE YOUR MONEY
!
To the
Free Business Checking Account 1000 transactions FREE! No monthly service charges Save thousands of dollars every year!* A Better Way To Bank! SINCE 1884
“Not only is POINTBank saving me $1,900 per year, they are always friendly and available to help us with our business questions.”
MEMBER FDIC
940.686.7000 • www.POINTBank.com • 972.434.3200
Mark Kerr Owner, Comet Cleaners I2
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12 Bringing community back to banking
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Sep. 10
In the fall of 2006, a group of local business people and bankers decided it was time to bring community back to the banking industry in Denton. Headed by President and CEO Randy Robinson, that group applied for a charter with the Texas Department of Banking and membership to the FDIC Insurance Fund. The startup capital was raised by local investors, and the doors opened for business in October of 2007. In August of 2008, Access 1st Capital Bank moved into their permanent home at the intersection of Eagle Drive and Carroll Blvd., where the clock tower Robinson on top of the building stands as a sort of entry to the downtown Denton area. Being owned by 300+ members of the community, it comes as no surprise that Access 1st Capital and her 40 local employees are used to putting the needs of Denton and the surrounding community first. “We are very aware the economy forces people to make choices to realize the best value for their dollar. We are very focused on delivering ‘best of class’ in everything we do. Whether it be the way that we greet our customers at the teller line, or the way that we answer our phones, or the selection of financial products we offer, we must be the best value for our customers”, says Robinson. “This economy has affected everyone, and certainly banks are no different”, said Robinson. By becoming more efficient and more conservative in investment decisions, Access 1st Capital has been able to focus on providing superior service and financial products that will enhance the quality of life for customer, community, employees and shareholders alike. Being locally-owned and managed has also helped the financial institution focus on the individuals and small businesses in the Denton community. Robinson leads by example when it comes to community. A born-andraised citizen of Denton for over 50 years, he is a Life Board Member of the United Way of Denton County, a
member of the city of Denton Public Utility Board, the city of Denton CIP Bond Advisory Board and the Denton Rotary Club. A member of Independent Bankers Association of Texas, Independent Community Bankers of America,
Texas Bankers Association and American Bankers Association, Access 1st Capital Bank’s lobby is open Monday-Thursday from 9 am. – 4p.m., on Friday from 9 a.m.- 6 p.m., and on Saturday from 9 am. – 1 pm. The drive-in is open Monday-Friday 7
a.m.-6 pm., and on Saturday from 9 am. -1 p.m. You may reach the bank at (940) 382-3962. Visit the bank’s website at www.a1stcb.com or find them on Facebook under Access 1st Capital Bank.
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Dedicated to the community Five generations of family. The oldest state-chartered bank in Texas (1905). But most importantly, a dedication to the community and the people it serves. First State Bank knows this is their greatest legacy. With the commitment of their employees, officers and directors, along with community support, the bank is proud of their past and excited about what the future has to offer. Vice-President and Branch Manager Judy Willis knows first-hand how important community is to local business. Native Texans, Willis and her husband of over 30 years, Melvin, have lived in Denton for 21 years. Her civic involvement includes being a member of the Denton South Rotary Club, Greater Denton Arts Council, The Arts Guild, the Denton Chamber of Commerce and the Argyle Chamber of Commerce. Willis also is involved with The United Way and the American Heart Association Go Red For Women Luncheon. “As customers needs have changed, so has banking, “ said Willis. “Technology and the internet have brought many innovations and conveniences to banking. These advances have made it possible for our bank to offer new services while maintaining our standards for customer service.” First State has been in downtown Denton 7 years, and with the recent opening of the Rayzor Ranch location, is even more prepared and ready to assist local businesses and individuals with loan needs, including real estate and operating loans. “First State Bank is a certified SBA lender, which gives us the ability to help small businesses that might not meet regular bank loan guidelines, “said Willis. “By leveraging government guaranteed funds with bank funds, it creates a larger pool of funds available to small businesses.” In 2004, First State Bank was recognized by the SBA as their District and Regional Financial Services Champion. Other services and products offered by First State include: business loans/checking accounts, business cyber deposits, reward checking, on-line mortgage applications, on-line checking account setup, mobile phone banking, trust department and a travel club. First State Bank employs 130 employees companywide, with 27 in Denton. Other locations include Gainesville, Valley View, Muenster, Saint Jo and Lake Kiowa. The Rayzor Ranch location is at 2430 W. University, close to I-35, in the development that’s home to the new Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club. First State Bank/Rayzor Ranch has lobby hours from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The drive-in is open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. You may reach the bank at (94) 349-5432 or visit the First State Bank website at www.F-S-B.com.
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Crocker stays busy at DRC Bonduris Music refreshes Amanda Crocker is the force behind many projects at the Denton Record-Chronicle – from the popular Community Corner to the recent Summer Fun photo contest which drew hundreds of entries. As marketing director for the publishing company, Amanda serves on a number of local committees ranging from the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign to the Denton Holiday Festival Association, which organizes the annual Denton Holiday Lighting Festival. She also serves on the Salvation Army of Denton Advisory Council, the Denton Benefit League board, the United Way of Denton County marketing committee and is a Denton Chamber of
Commerce ambassador. Amanda started her career as a marketing assistant at the Lubbock AvalancheJournal shortly after graduating from Texas Tech University. Soon, she became the marketing coordinator and a love of the industry was born. “I fell in love with the industry and what newspapers mean to the community,� she says, adding that through the experience in Lubbock, she later found the Denton Record-Chronicle and Denton – the city she and her family now call home. As part of her job as marketing director at the Record-Chronicle, Amanda works with Denton and area schools through the Newspapers in Education program and
is the one who selects each month’s Kid Scoop, a popular feature of learning games and colorful cartoons in Kid Life. She also can often be seen at local festivals – from the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival to the Denton Holiday Lighting Festival – greeting passersby and offering information about the newspaper industry. As the industry continues to evolve, the focus is on providing readers with information they can use in their daily lives, Amanda says. The Record-Chronicle not only produces a newspaper 365 days a year, it also is the “to go� place for the online readers at www.DentonRC.com, where there is truly something for everyone.
Bonduris Music has relocated and continues to offer lessons in all styles of guitar, electric and string bass, drums, keyboard, violin, accordion, and other instruments. Owner Thad Bonduris, who has been in business in Denton for over two decades, has had a staff of teachers offering instruction for the past couple of years on these instruments. “My goal is to help students the best I can to achieve their musical goals, whether it’s an adult wanting to play in church, or a teenager aiming for admittance to the UNT music program,� he said. The music studio welcomes all ages and levels of students. Personal attention and years of experience allow Bonduris “to target teaching in the most effective and efficient manner toward students’ individual needs.� In addition to teaching, Thad also performs at private parties, outdoor concerts and restaurants. Bonduris began teaching music classes out of a local music store while attending NTSU in the 70’s. “By the time the store closed 7 years later, I had built up enough
business to open a private studio,â€? he said. He moved around Denton’s downtown square for about a decade prior to settling in his Austin St. location for 17 years, later opening a second satellite location to hold band rehearsals. These band rehearsals came to fruition back in May in the form of a very successful recital of 6 bands, one guitar ensemble, and several solo performers, with well over a hundred people attending. The “successâ€? of it, he says, â€œâ€Śwas the experience that all the performers had (young & older), and how much it reenergized their passion for musicmaking‌but here I have to give credit mostly to my great staff for coaching these ensembles.â€? Bonduris Music has now moved to a new location just north of the square. The facility is much larger, with more teaching rooms and more rehearsal spaces, and the facility is able to offer a wider variety of services. Business hours are by appointment. For more information, please call 940-320-6023 or visit www.bondurismusic.com.
A daily reminder of why you live here. There are thousands of reasons why people are proud to call Denton County home and those reasons are as varied as the people who live here. Whatever is important to you, chances are you can find it in the Denton Record-Chronicle. It’s your community and it’s reflected in these pages. For everything that makes Denton County home, the Denton Record-Chronicle is where it all comes together. To subscribe, call 940-566-6836.
Expanded facilities and amenities. Now offering private lessons in: $ All styles of Guitar $ Electric and acoustic bass $ Drums $ Keyboards $ Violin $ Accordion $ ... and More
Denton Record-Chronicle DentonRC.com
We coach bands and ensembles for adults and young people. You get the opportunity to perform in 2 recitals per year!
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Thad Bonduris Thad Bonduris
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Quality key at sewing center Bookkeeping made simple Denton Sewing Center is a multi-line sewing machine dealership offering sales and service of a wide selection of top quality sewing machines from beginner to top of the line sewing and embroidery machines, sergers, and sewing furniture. Denton Sewing Center has been helping North Texans with their sewing machine concerns for 24 years. A family-owned and operated business, Denton Sewing Center was established in 1986 by Tom and Helen Plant. In 1992 ownership of the business passed to the Plants’ daughter Debbie and her husband, Paul Weigenant. Denton Sewing Center acquired the Baby Lock dealership this summer. Their products include
sewing machines, embroidery machines, and the best serger in the industry. Paul & Debbie also added Koala Sewing Furniture to their store this year. Debbie has been in the sewing machine for 31 years. Paul has 19 years experience in sewing machine repair and has received the Gold Star Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding technical knowledge. Jason Walker, Paul and Debbie’s son, is a factory-certified technician who handles in store repairs and service calls. Completing the staff at Denton Sewing Center are Andrea Mozingo and Bonnie Bobbitt who work primarily in sales and education. Andrea specialized in teaching embroidery software
along with other creative classes. Bonnie teaches beginning and creative/embroidery classes. Andrea and Bonnie offer a monthly Embroidery Club that meets the first Saturday and Tuesday of every month. You can find them at www.dentonsewingcenter.com to check out the class schedule and upcoming events. Denton Sewing Center is offering a Start Your Own Embroidery Business Seminar on October 8th, 10am2pm. Seating is limited. Denton Sewing Center is located at 1504 Malone St., one mile east of Interstate 35E off U.S. Highway 380. Hours are 9:30 am – 5:30pm Monday –Friday and Saturday 9:30-5. Call 940-3824118.
In some circles, Kim Pollard is better known as Bookkeeper Girl, after a business she launched in Denton in the fall of 2008. In others, she is known as a strong advocate for the Denton Chamber of Commerce and for women, as cochair of the upcoming “Women in Commerce” conference to debut on Oct. 29 at Texas Woman’s University. With her husband, Scott, Kim has turned years of experience in bookkeeping and coupled it with an entrepreneurial spirit that has seen the business grow into two locations in two years with plans to continue expanding. “I enjoy helping others, so opening my own business was a win-win situation for myself and also for my clients,” she said. Why Bookkeeper Girl, Inc.? “While doing contract work on the side for bookkeeping while working at a CPA firm, one of my corporate clients could never remember my name, so [the person] jokingly called me ‘bookkeeper girl.’ The name stuck with me all those years, so I chose it for my business.” Situated in the heart of Denton at 100 W. Oak St., Bookkeeper Girl pro-
vides bookkeeping and payroll services for individuals, sole proprietors, and small business owners through the United States. Clients range from Denton, Dallas, Houston and areas in between to Chicago, Miami, Atlanta and more. A second office, located in Dallas, opened in May this year. “We pride ourselves in being solely electronic with client confidentiality of the utmost important,” Kim said. “The growth of our business has been tremendous in these economic and challenging times, which tells us that we are doing an excellent service for our clients.” Bookkeeper Girl offers first-rate package pricing that allows clients to budget a set monthly fee rather than fluctuate invoices based on hourly or transaction rates. Clients have the opportunity to view their records at any time it is convenient. As the business has grown so too has Kim and Scott’s commitment to community service. Since opening the office on Oct. 1, 2008, the couple has made monthly contributions toward assisting in the feeding and clothing of needy families through The Shepherd’s Hand.
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In early February, NORTHSTAR BANK merged with Curtis Mortgage to create the largest locally owned Mortgage operation in Denton County.
Northstar Bank: Largest locally-owned bank NORTHSTAR BANK OF TEXAS once again tops the charts as the largest locallyowned bank in Denton and Denton County, and one of the largest in the Dallas / Fort Worth Metroplex. This team of experienced bankers has worked hard to manage business through the current economic environment, and reports assets of over $800 million at midyear 2010. In these uncertain times, NORTHSTAR understands the importance of financial institutions maintaining a strong financial position in order to allow them to continue to serve the needs of their customers and their respective commu-
nities. In early February, NORTHSTAR BANK merged with Curtis Mortgage to create the largest locally owned Mortgage operation in Denton County. Stacy Curtis, President of the newly structured Mortgage Division, recently announced that NORTHSTAR BANK MORTGAGE recently achieved an FHA Direct Endorsement Lender designation providing customers with faster and more flexible service. Collectively, this newly formed mortgage team has over 100 years of experience and reported over $100 million in single family production in 2009.
Tony Clark, President / CEO makes note of the “high level of experienced professionals, and the act of treating people with personal attention as a major key to our success”. NORTHSTAR BANK is a fullservice bank with banking products for every consumer or business, along with investment professional services, and a large Mortgage Division. In early 2010, NORTHSTAR was recognized again by Texas Monthly magazine as one of the Best Companies to Work For In Texas, ranking number five in the mid-size companies across our great state; a testament to the
work family you will find at the bank. In addition, our employees collectively gave back almost 5,500 hours of volunteer hours within all of the markets we serve. A big “THANK YOU” goes out to all! These milestones would not have been possible were it not for our loyal customers and the level of experience with our highly professional team. Responsiveness has been a common theme as we journey with our customers and markets to reach new levels of success in spite of a chaotic economy. Under the direction of key
individuals from the area, Rob Gentry – Chairman of the Board, Tony R. Clark – President/ CEO, the Honorable Myra Crownover, Kent Key, Joe Mulroy, Pat O’Brien, Bob Sherman, Dick Smith, Roy Stewart, and Bob Widmer, this board has made a commitment to the community in which they live, work, and serve. We are looking ahead with vision to an even stronger future banking partnership by weathering the economic storm with our customers to achieve their financial goals. Setting the course for you and your dreams ……stick with NORTHSTAR BANK OF TEXAS ~ we’ll get you there!
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Meridian Bank Texas: Our Experience, Your Direction
Denton Market Pres. Paul Chandler OUR EXPERIENCE - Meridian Bank Texas has a professional staff of highly experienced bankers that is unsurpassed by any community bank in North Texas. Over the past four years we have assembled a team that we feel is the best and brightest bankers in the region. Our lending staff has an extensive and successful background in all areas of real estate, small business, commercial and industrial along with the expertise to accommodate any opportunity that arises. We also have an experienced energy lending staff, which provides a unique niche for a community bank. Our personal bankers know our community and our customers. We know our customer’s needs and we are dedicated to providing the superior level of service our customers deserve. YOUR DIRECTION - Meridian Bank Texas has a full range of products and services to meet all of your banking needs but if you have unique situations we have the ability and flexibility to create solutions to accommodate those needs. We value your business. We take your business seriously. We are determined to earn your trust. Our goal is to build solid relationships through our responsiveness to your individual needs. We are focused on growing our customer base one relationship at a time by providing excellent professional service. And we strive to do it with a friendly smile. At Meridian Bank Texas we value the personal side of our day to day dealings with our cus-
tomers and share a warm family atmosphere with everyone. Our Travel Club is an extension of the personal service offered to our customer family. We invite you to contact Julie Willis at 940-320-5203 for information about future trips and fun outings with our regular travelers. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT - The entire staff of Meridian Bank Texas has a long history of actively supporting the Denton community by volunteering, providing financial support and serving in leadership roles for the Denton Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Denton County, CASA, Denton Benefit League, TWU Foundation, Denton Regional Foundation, DISD Adopt A School, various churches and other civic and nonprofit boards. FINANCIAL STRENGTH - Meridian Bank Texas opened in Fort Worth in February of 2007 and operations were expanded to Denton in January of 2008. Total assets have grown steadily to over $240 million with over $30 million in capital. We are part of Marquette Financial Companies, a $2.8 billion privately held financial services company, whose roots date back 50 years. We have been involved in Denton and Tarrant County since the 1980’s, and we believe our capital and creativity can make a big difference. We are pleased to have the opportunity to put it to work for you and our Denton community. RELOCATION - As a part of our ongoing commitment we are excited to announce our acquisition of the property at the corner of University Dr. and Fulton St. in the heart of Denton. In the 1950’s this corner was the home of Pat Boone Country Inn. Since that time it has been the location of several local banks and we look forward to our redevelopment of the site into a new Meridian Bank Texas facility to serve Denton. Construction should begin soon so watch our progress in the coming months and join us as we relocate from our temporary facility and celebrate the opening. We want your business. Avoid the rush - open your
Top - Meridian Bank Texas presents a check to CASA of Denton County. Bottom - Meridian Bank Texas Travelers enjoy a fall foliage trip.
account today! OUR STARTING LINE UP - The Denton team is made up of nine all stars that all have Denton backgrounds lead by Paul Chandler with over 35 years of local banking. Paul and his wife Beverly are graduates of Denton High and UNT. Their daughter Jennifer also graduated from Ryan High and UNT. Next is Debby Grigsby with 28 years of banking her loyal Denton followers. Her husband Johnny is in sales and their daughter Nikky plays volleyball for Ryan High. Richard Reynolds, another Denton High product, has 13 years of banking experience and holds a BBA and MBA from UNT. Rich’s wife, Diane also has a BBA from UNT and devotes much of her time raising their three children. John Spencer has been banking builders and developers for 35 years in Denton and Tarrant counties. John now lives in Denton after years of commuting. Holly Brown, 13 years in banking, was born in Denton and lives in Aubrey where her daughter Kaitlin is
an outstanding athlete at Aubrey High, son Dillon is all boy and husband David works for the City of Denton. Julie Willis, a six-year banking veteran, is a natural banker. Julie and her husband Todd, an investment broker are lifelong residents of Denton, graduates of Denton High, TWU and UNT. Their daughter Emily plays volleyball at Ryan High and son Haden plays football at Strickland Middle School. Helene Ramey has been a great addition to the team and has become a star in only two years. Helene’s husband Kent and son Seth represent the 3rd and 4th generations of the Ramey family in Denton. Jarred Reus is our youngest team member, but has become a valuable team player with three years of banking to his credit. Jarred has a BBA from UNT. Last but not least Bill McClellan who brings 40 years of wealthy banking experience to the team. Bill is a graduate of UNT and he and his wife Alida, a title company staff member, have lived here since 1987.
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22 Protection for you and your family
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Each year lightning destroys more property and causes more injuries than hurricanes, floods, and tornados. Lightning causes fires destroying homes, businesses, electrical systems, and expensive electronics. With underground electrical services, satellite dishes mounted on our rooftops, and nearby trees, it’s no wonder lightning finds its way into our homes and businesses.
The solution to protect your family and structures from a destructive lightning strike is a professionally installed lightning protection system; the ONLY method recognized by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL), and the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI). A properly installed system provides structural protection by creating specific pathways on which lightning travels safely into the ground; leaving your home, business, family, and personal belongings unharmed. The lightning protection system does not attract or deter lightning; but rather acts as a canopy of protection for your structure. Bonded Lightning Protection Systems, Ltd. is the nation’s largest designer and installer of quality lightning protection systems. The Company was established in Dallas, Texas in 1950 providing lightning protection to some of Texas’ most famous landmarks. Today, Bonded Lightning Protection Systems, Ltd. is a second-generation, local, family owned company. The Corporate
office is located in Argyle, with installation offices in Dallas; Fort Worth; Houston; Austin; San Antonio; Mobile, Alabama; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and New Orleans, Louisiana. All employees believe in and work diligently to achieve the Company’s Mission: to protect every vulnerable structure in the United States from the devastation of lightning; and strive to uphold its Core Values, embracing: God; Family; Commitment; Honesty; and
Teamwork, just to name a few. (Visit BONDEDLP.COM for the complete list of Core Values.) It is our mission to protect you and your family from the destruction and damage caused by lightning. We offer FREE estimates. Call us today for yours! For more facts, figures, and myths about lightning along with educational videos on lightning protection, lightning photos, etc. – visit our website, BONDEDLP.COM.
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James Wood makes a big impact 23 Accent
He’s never served on a school board, city council or commissioners court, but in his 37 years of selling new or used cars to folks in Denton and Wise Counties, James Wood has made a big impact. His dealerships are among the largest non-governmental employers in both counties. And his continued support has helped community organizations make it through tough economic times more than once. Locally, Wood has backed the family-oriented Kiwanis Club annual fireworks display at Fouts Field, North Texas State Fair, Chamber of Commerce and the Denton ISD’s adopt-a-school and student mentoring efforts, as well as supporting its high-school athletics. One senior Wood manager devotes much of his time to the Economic Development Board. In Decatur, that effort extends to United Way, Wise County Youth Fair and Wise Regional Health System (one of the few organizations that includes actually includes Wood on its board of directors). He has supported countless youth sports teams. Both Wood locations help fund pee-wee football in a combined effort with other GMC dealers. In other words, James Wood is a local businessman giving back to his community – which he should. While he’s happy for his customers to think of him as their hometown place to buy a GM or Hyundai car or truck, in the world of car dealers he’s made a big impact as well. Last year, the trade publication “Automotive News” named Wood as one of 50 visionary dealers in the United States. The only other Texas dealer selected was Carl Sewell of Dallas, who like Wood earned a reputation for emphasizing customer service. In a sense, James Wood was an “automotive pioneer” in several ways. After operating his own used-car lot in his home town of Decatur for five years – where Wood became known for a “no-pressure” sales approach that continues to this day – he ventured into selling new General Motors vehicles in 1978. Wood saw the need for a large inventory to serve his own rural market as well as to draw customers from the adjacent metropolitan markets of Denton County and Dallas-Fort Worth. “You’ve got to have the goods to sell them,” Wood has always believed. “People want to buy something they can see.” Most of that inventory was made up of pickups and what was emerging as the alternative to the traditional family car: the sport utility vehicle. Wood was on the leading edge of the trend that put Suburbans onto driveways in Denton. For two straight years, the Decatur dealership led the nation in sales of the GMC Truck brand. After declining several offers to buy dealerships, Wood expanded into rapidly-growing Denton County, re-opening a closed Buick-GMC Truck facility on I-35E South on Saint Valentine’s Day in 1991. He subsequently obtained the Pontiac franchise. A used-car dealer at heart, he soon opened his “buy here, pay here” lot at 317 North Locust, just off
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James Wood has been selling vehicles in Denton and Wise Counties for 37 years the courthouse square. A few years later, he opened a Lewisville lot. In 1994, he bought the spacious North Texas Autoplex, adding Chevrolet and Cadillac to his GM lineup and adding his name to the landmark 50foot “lighted ball” sign. In 2001, Wood completed a multi-million dollar makeover on his 41-acre site, possibly the largest in Texas. After only a decade in operation, James Wood in Denton surpassed the original Decatur dealership in both sales and inventory, becoming one of the dozen largest “car stores” in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Wood has always been dedicated to offering “one-stop car-and-truck shopping,” and in Denton he offers the entire GM line-up of Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC. The Decatur dealership doesn’t have Cadillac, but it does offer Hyundai, a fast-growing line he added a couple of years ago. Wood sees to it that his dealerships are known for offering top-notch customer satisfaction. Seventy-five percent of his business comes from repeat customers or those referred by satisfied buyers. As Wood explains: “I just believe in taking care of folks the way I want to be treated myself. If we’re not making our customers happy, they won’t be back.” While location, inventory, good luck and a strong faith surely have helped, Wood tells everyone the real keys to his success are the 400 Denton and Decatur employees who believe in making the “Wood Way” work for their customers. Few of his personnel have automobile-sales backgrounds. What they have in common is a genuine liking for dealing with people.
Managers have always come from his own ranks. And Wood has turned them into community leaders. While James Wood’s name is on the sign dubbed by some as “Denton’s beacon in the night,” the official dealer is his older son, Raymond, who has been involved with the dealership since it opened down I-35 from its present location. Executive managers are Denny Aldridge for Buick and GMC, and Russ Ellis for Cadillac and Chevrolet. Will Lewis is general sales manager, and Steve Joslin and Greg Spurgeon are pre-owned managers. Rick Nash oversees fixed operations. Brand managers include Brian Fogle for Cadillac, Kevin Harvick and Tom Trowbridge for Chevrolet, and Mike Loch for Buick and GMC. Juan Olivares manages the Lewisville lot, and Manuel Torralba is in charge on Locust Street. Doug Richey is parts manager, Mike White is service manager, and John Seidel is body-shop manager. Tommy Kerner is make-ready manager. Most have worked for James Wood for at least a decade. Predictably, turnover at both dealerships has been enviably low. To put it all in perspective, the Decatur dealership that James Wood bought nearly four decades ago had an inventory of about 25 new vehicles. Today, the Decatur and Denton dealerships each have about 600 each, with another 500 preowned cars and trucks between them. While “The Wood Difference Is Worth The Distance” has been Wood’s slogan for three decades, folks in Denton and Wise Counties don’t even have to leave home to enjoy that refreshing difference.
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We Are Proud of Denton, A Community Focused Clearly on The Future THE A TRAIN
TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY
DENTON MUNICIPAL AIRPORT
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS
JAMES
WOOD
DENTON,TEXAS May The Best Car Win ™
Exit 462 off I-35E South • 1-888-209-0320 • jameswood.com
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