Just got this late-breaking press release:

ALLEN EVENT CENTER WILL HOST A JOB FAIR WITH 200 POSITIONS RANGING FROM USHERS, TICKET TAKING, AND SECURITY, TO COACHING AND MANAGEMENT

WHAT:     The City of Allen’s newest sports and entertainment venue, the Allen Event Center, will host a job fair in preparation for its November 2009 grand opening. The job fair will take place Friday, Sept. 11 and Saturday, Sept. 12 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Allen.

More than 200 positions are available in a variety of departments including:
Box Office Sellers, Stand Supervisors, Concession Workers, Warehouse Runners, Warehouse Manager, Cooks, Dishwashers, Suite Level Supervisor, Club Supervisor, Suite Attendants, Loge Servers, Food Runners, Bartenders, Head Cashier, Cashiers, Merchandise Sellers, Audio/Visual Positions, Event Conversion Crew, Electrician, HVAC, Maintenance, Production, PBX Operator, Premium Seat Coordinator, Housekeeping, Security , Guest Services, Ushers, Ticket Takers, Game Operations, Head Figure Skating Coach, Head Hockey Coach, Figure Skating Coach, Hockey Coach, House League Coach, Off Ice Training Specialist, Customer Service Representative, Ice Technician, Equipment Sales, Skate Sharpen and Repair Staff, DJ and Entertainment Coordinator, Birthday Party Hostess, and more… *Job fair attendees should come dressed professionally and be prepared to do on-site interviews. For a complete list of available positions, visit www.alleneventcenter.com.

WHO:       Doug Waugh, General Manager, Allen Event Center
Kristen Keeler, Human Resource Manager, Global Entertainment

WHEN:     Friday, Sept. 11: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, Sept 12: 9 a.m. – 5p.m.

WHERE:   Hilton Garden Inn in Allen
705 Central Expressway South
Allen, Texas 75013
*From U.S. 75, take Bethany Drive exit

BACKGROUND:
The $52.6 million Allen Event Center is a joint venture between Global Entertainment Corp., the City of Allen, and The MGHerring Group. Upon its grand opening in November, the event center will feature 6,135 fixed seats (with capacity for 8,100 seats), 24 suites, 5 hospitality suites, and two ice rinks. The Allen Event Center will host approximately 100+ events each year, including concerts, top touring shows, family entertainment and professional sports and is home to the Allen Americans Central Hockey League team. The event center, which broke ground in July 2008, is located within The Village at Allen at U.S. 75 and Stacy Road in Allen, Texas.
JOB FAIR CONTACT:
For questions regarding the job fair, the public may contact Sheila Alexander at    salexander@globalentertainment2000.com or 972-678-4646  
MEDIA CONTACT:
Flo Torres, Events and Marketing, ftorres@globalentertainment2000.com or 972-678-4646
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I hope this helps some Allen residents who are looking for work! 

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

Well, the web traffic shows that lots of people are still interested in Sotherby Homes going under. With over 1,000 unique visitors between my two previous posts on Sotherby Homes, I decided it was time to create a place for readers to post questions, comments, updates, information (company contact info. anyone?) and issues as they relate to Sotherby Homes. Check back occasionally to see if anyone has answered your questions or posted any interesting updates. Obviously, they're are lots of people affected by this home builder's implosion. I'd love to see the earnest money returned to Buyers who were expecting Sotherby to build their dream home (I've talked to several buyers who are out thousands of dollars); and I'd love to see vendors who did work for Sotherby get paid (I've been contacted by more than one vendor who was out thousands of dollars). I don't know that either of these will ever happen, but I was interviewed by WFAA's Jonathan Betz about this very topic (Sotherby and Buyers out thousands). So, post away... I'm eager to hear what's going on and if anyone knows anything new. Note that comments have to be approved before they will show up (i.e. nothing vulger please); that generally happens within 24 hours.

You can check out the two previous posts I wrote on Sotherby Homes here:
http://www.realtown.com/ryancave/blog/developments/sotherbyhomesgone
http://www.realtown.com/ryancave/blog/developments/sotherbywarranty

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

I saw this press release for a free, fun time in the new Watters Creek development and thought it should be shared:

Great Movies Under the Stars

Come Hungry for a Delicious Range of Dining Options

The Village at Allen continues to improve with new openings all the time. If you haven't visited the dog park or the shops and restaurants that are already open, you're missing out. Plus, there are lots more store openings on the horizon (some just a few days away). Of course, all opening dates are subject to change...

VILLAGE AT ALLEN - NEW & UPCOMING OPENINGS…

- Opening March 7th: Petsmart

- Opening March 8th: Super Target  (boy, is my wife excited about this one)

OPENING IN...

- March: EyeMasters, Cheddar's Casual Cafe, Scottrade, Saxby's Coffee

- April: Ooo La La, The Kid Salon, Radio Shack

- May: Dodie's Place Sports Cafe, Tacone Flavor Grill 

- June: Movie Trading Company, Yogilicious, Hemispheres, James Avery, Ross - Dress for Less

 RECENTLY OPENED:

Anderson's Furniture, Villa Nails & Spa, GameStop, Sleep Experts and more.

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So get out there and shop... together we can spend our way to a better economy.  :-)

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

This is an update to my previous post here:
http://www.realtown.com/ryancave/blog/developments/sotherbyhomesgone

I continue to hear that Shaddock corp. is finishing up homes started by Sotherby. So, there may be hope yet for those with homes started by Sotherby. Please comment below to let us know if you have a home in-process with Sotherby/Shaddock. Also, I heard you can still get warranty work done on Sotherby homes if it's an emergency; see below (I found this on Frisco-Online.com and, at almost the exact same time, it was submitted as a coment by David Margulies on the previous post):
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Sotherby Homes is in the process of re-establishing a procedure for warranty performance as per the HOME of Texas Limited Warranty issued to homeowners at such time that a home was closed from Sotherby to a homeowner. At this time, Sotherby is accepting calls, e-mails and faxes for warranty issues. It is currently acting on emergency items, such as plumbing leaks, roof leaks, and heating and cooling issues. In the near future, Sotherby hopes to establish and phase in procedures for warranty performance for all other HOME of Texas Limited Warranty repair requests.

For emergency warranty performance or other questions about warranty issues, please call (972) 985-7955, fax (972) 526-5645 or email customerservice@sotherby.com.

The company will place calls to contact individual customers to update them on the status of their homes. Sothereby will make every attempt to complete the construction of all sold homes.

If a current homeowner receives any notices or threats concerning liens they should contact our office at (972) 526-5645 or fax to (972) 526-5645. It is our intent to compile and remedy this issue very soon. Sotherby regrets any inconvenience that this situation is causing its valued customers and is doing everything it can to resolve the situation in a timely manner.
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However, the same forum also says that Sotherby is down to just three employees. So, I imagine that response times are slow at best. I wish all the best to those affected by Sotherby's troubles (employees, homeowners, subcontractors, homeowners-to-be, etc.). I hope Sotherby is able to right the ship and take care of their customers (both past and present) in the process.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

An update to my earlier post here:
http://www.realtown.com/ryancave/blog/developments/bennigansclosing/

Many have asked me what they can do with their gift cards to Bennigan's and/or Steak & Ale. My suggestions: Use as a shoe horn, hole punch and make into a necklace charm, frame as a memento to corporate mismanagement, etc. Ok, so this may not be the answer you were looking for. Unfortunately, best I can tell, if you have a Gift Card for Bennigan's or Steak & Ale, they are probably worthless. Technically, I've heard that you are a creditor and could file a claim against their bankruptcy (I heard you could file a claim at www.uscourts.gov. That you could download the bankruptcy form and submit form B-10). However, you'd have to get in like with their other creditors and chances of you ever actually getting anything are slim to none (and the trouble probably isn't worth what you might recoup). This is further evidence why (in my opinion) gift cards are simply not good gifts... Even if the recipient LOVES the store/issuer, they may not get to use it. If a store files bankruptcy/closes, they're probably out of luck. Though this is rare, especially with "major" companies like the one that owns Bennigan's and Steak & Ale, this shows you that it can happen to any major corporation.

While we're on the topic, you might also want to be careful of "expiring" or "diminishing" gift cards. Many places issue gift cards that "expire" after a certain length of time (often after one year) or diminish in value as "maintenance fees" are changed every few months. I think this is horrible since the store already collected the cash (from when the card was purchased) and the company is collecting interest on the money until you use the card. A perfect example: a friend gave me a gift card to Harley Davidson in Allen Texas a few years ago (I think it was $50). I used part of it almost immediately (around $25), but when I returned the next time I wanted to use the balance, I was told that it had "expired" and wasn't worth anything. So, basically, they kept around $25 and never had to make good on it. I felt like they "stole" from me (or from my friend who had paid for and given me the card). But there it was in fine print on the back of the card... it expired one year from issue. This is why I don't give gift cards from Harley Davidson (or any other merchant that has gift cards that "expire" ). If you don't know what to buy me (my birthday was just this past week), just give me the universal gift card that never expires... cash.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

This one is fresh out of the rumor mill... However, I have a semi-confirmed report that Sotherby Homes has gone out of business. I had heard that they were in trouble, but now it looks like another BIG builder has gone under. At the time of this posting, their website (http://www.sotherby.com/) was down (citing "technical difficulties")... but according to one source, they are not declaring bankruptcy and are trying to find ways to finish all homes currently under construction. If you have a contract with Sotherby Homes, my advice is DO NOT PANIC, but rather contact your Real Estate Agent and/or Sotherby Sales Agent to get a status on your home. According to one source they will be closing their doors on Monday, but this may just be for any/all new business as, again, another source told me that they were not declaring bankruptcy at this time and were trying to finish homes in progress (it's a long story, but either through Shaddock Homes, Shaddock Financial and/or the banks that have already loaned on the homes in progress).  At this time that is all the information that I have and will pass on any additional information as I receive it. If you have more info. please feel free to post a comment below.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

As The Village at Allen continues to grow, and more stores continue to open, there will be even more shopping nearby before Christmas. Here's a list of what's already open and what else is opening soon... of course all dates are subject to change:

Already open:
Toys R Us, Babies R Us, Best Buy, Dick's Sporting Goods, HomeGoods, T.J.Maxx, Coffee N Cream, Men's Wearhouse, Nate's Seafood & Steakhouse, Smoothie Factory, Uncle Julio's, Verizon Wireless, Which Wich?, Canine Corners Dog Park & Chase Bank

Opening Soon (with tentative opening dates):
Vitamin Shoppe - on or around December 11th
AT&T (Wireless) - on or around December 13th
Mattress Giant - on or around December 13th
Cold Stone Creamery (Ice Cream) - on or around December 15th
Village Smiles (Dentist) - on or around December 16th
Olive Garden - January
Ooo La La (? Somebody tell me what this is.) - January
Sleep Experts - January (Seriously? ANOTHER mattress store?)
Anderson's Furniture - February
GameStop - February
Radio Shack - February
Villa Nails - February (I believe a nail shop is mandatory in all shopping strips/malls/etc.)

Also, The Village at Allen is donating 200 Christmas trees to service men and women, and their families, at bases in the U.S. and abroad. This will be done via the Trees for Troops program (by the Christmas Spirit Foundation). Please stop by the Trees for Troops tent in The Grove* on Saturday (12/6/08) as it is the last day you can write a note of appreciation to our country's service members before the notes are attached to the trees for shipping.
Finally, Carter BloodCare is having a blood drive on December 20th from noon 'til 6pm in the parking lot just east of The Grove*. Giving blood is a great way to give for the holidays and it doesn't cost you a dime. Just imagine if you or a loved one were in need of a life-saving transfusion this holiday season... you'd be so grateful for the gift from those who donated.
   * The Grove is the one-acre park in the heart of The Village at Allen shopping center.

If you always want to get the get the latest scoop on items like these as soon as they are published, Email Me and let me know and I'll put you on my new scoop notification list.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

I just heard about the Watters Creek Grand Opening Celebration
It will be Saturday, October 25th from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
NOTE: If you didn't see this notice in time, and would like to be emailed whenever I post information about future events and such, please click "Email Me" over on the right and tell me you'd like to be notified of new blog postings.
On to the Grand Opening of Watters Creek: There will be entertainment all day, hourly prize drawings, shopping specials and live entertainment in the evening! Below are just a few of the exciting events at the Grand Opening Celebration you won't want to miss!

Schedule                                                                             Location 
10am  Townview Magnet High School Band Performance ---- Village Green
11am  Cooking Demonstrations with Chef Jon Bonnell ------- Village Green
             (Featured on the "Today Show")
12pm  Meet the Dallas Mavericks Dancers ------------------------ Pecan Tree 
            Complimentary Star Maker Music Video ------------------- Paciugo Courtyard
1pm   David Chicken - Children's Musical Comedy ------------- Village Green  
           Complimentary Portraits by Cl!x Portrait Studios -------- Pecan Tree 
2pm   Arthur Murray School of Dance Performance ------------- Village Green  
           Complimentary Caricatures ----------------------------------- Next to Eddie Bauer 
3pm   Connemara - Fun with Critters and Creatures ----------- Village Green 
6pm   Live Entertainment - Rob Holbert Band -------------------- Village Green 

View the full schedule of events here.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

I just ran across this recent press release (below) about the grand opening of The Village at Allen (SE corner of Stacy Rd. and 75/Central). It made me think about an interesting point mentioned: this is one of the biggest mixed-use developments in the U.S. and it is THE biggest mixed-use development in Texas. So what is a mixed-use development? How does it differ from the typical, single-use development we're used to seeing? Well, it's not JUST a hotel, or JUST retail (i.e. a strip-mall), or JUST an entertainment venue (like an area, movie theater, etc.) but it is some combination of two or more of these (and/or other) land uses in one general area (read the wikipedia definition here). Once you've read the info. below, please post a comment/your thoughts about the development (i.e. "I love the additional shopping" or "I hate the urban sprawl") and give specifics about what you love/hate the most. I'm interested to hear some of the public's opinions (click on "Post a Comment" just below my contct info. at the bottom of this article):
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 15, 2008
Contact: Hillary Redwine, Sunwest Communications
(214) 373-1601 or hredwine@sunwestpr.com

THE MGHERRING GROUP ANNOUNCES GRAND OPENING OF THE VILLAGE AT ALLEN

First phase of largest mixed-use development in Texas to include national retailers Best Buy, Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us “R” Superstore, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods and more

Allen, Texas – The first phase of The Village at Allen, developed by The MGHerring Group, opened today at the southeast corner of US 75 and Stacy Road in Allen.
The grand opening of the first phase will continue through November as retail stores and restaurants open each week.  Best Buy and Uncle Julio’s were the first tenants to open at The Village at Allen, having celebrated their grand openings earlier in October.
Other retail stores and restaurants opening in October include: Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us “R” Superstore, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Men’s Wearhouse, Mattress Giant, Sleep Experts, Nate’s Seafood and Steakhouse, Coffee N Cream and Verizon Wireless.  In addition, The Vitamin Shoppe, Ooo La La, Which Wich?, Cold Stone Creamery, Smoothie Factory and Villa Nails are scheduled to open in November.
The Village at Allen is one component of The MGHerring Group’s  3-million-square-foot, regional, mixed-use lifestyle center located in both Allen and Fairview, which is currently the largest mixed-use development in Texas and also one of the largest in the United States.
“Our goal for The Village at Allen, in combination with The Village at Fairview, is to create a superior retail and entertainment destination for the residents of Collin County, offering everything from national retail stores, specialty shops, casual restaurants and fine dining to a variety of entertainment options,” said Gar Herring, president of The MGHerring Group.  “We are excited to open the first phase of The Village at Allen and look forward to continuing the momentum as additional phases open throughout 2009.”
 The second phase of The Village at Allen will open March 8, 2009 and include Super Target, PetSmart, GameStop, Red Robin, Cheddars and more. Upon its completion, the center will feature 1 million square feet of retail. Other components include a 220-room Courtyard® by Marriott® Hotel with an adjoining 35,000-square-foot conference center (opening fall 2009); the 6,275-seat Allen Events Center (opening November 2009); and 500,000 square feet of office space.
As development for The Village at Allen continues, several common area enhancements will be added including: Canine Commons Dog Park; The Grove, featuring an outdoor fireplace and pavilion; a children’s play area with playhouses and a Texas-shaped hedge maze; a one-acre park; two lakes; and a hike/bike trail.
The Village at Allen is being developed in conjunction with The Village at Fairview, opening Aug. 5, 2009. The two developments will be separated by Stacy Road but were designed and are being developed as one project. Upon completion, the project will span 400 acres and include 2 million square feet of retail and 1 million square feet of office, residential and hotel space.
The MGHerring Group recently completed another development in the Dallas area – Uptown Village at Cedar Hill, located at Highway 67 and F.M. 1382 in Cedar Hill, Texas. Uptown Village at Cedar Hill opened March 12, 2008.

About The MGHerring Group
With a reputation for design, quality and integrity, Dallas-based The MGHerring Group has developed more than 30 major shopping centers and regional malls in the United States and Mexico, totaling more than 24 million square feet of retail space.  The MGHerring Group has been recognized with numerous industry awards and is considered by many to be among the top shopping center developers in the nation.
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Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

I just heard about the first annual "Taste of Watters Creek" and it sounds like a blast. If you haven't been to Watters Creek and all of the wonderful shops and restaurants, this will be a GREAT opportunity to experience much of what it currently has to offer (with even more to come). If you have already visited Watters Creek, then you can only imagine how much fun this event will be.
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Taste of Watters Creek

What: The first annual “Taste of Watters Creek” will feature the best of a dozen dining and specialty food locations as well as wines from around the world to complement the cuisine. Guests will enjoy a casual, leisurely evening on the Village Green with live music as they enjoy their wines and sample appetizers, entrées and desserts from an international menu provided by the fabulous dining and specialty food locations of Watters Creek.

When: Thursday, Oct. 23 - 6:30-9 p.m. on the Village Green

How Much: $30 per person and $50 per couple in advance; $40 per person at the door, if available.* A portion of the proceeds to benefit Collin County Meals on Wheels.

Who: The evening's appetizers, main course and desserts will be provided by Brio Tuscan Grill, Celebrity Cafe and Bakery, Cru - A Wine Bar, Grimaldi's Pizzeria, Market Street, Mi Cocina, NAAN Korean Grill and Sushi Bar, P.F. Chang's, Paciugo, The Cheesecake Factory and Woodlands American Grill.

How: Tickets may be purchased by:
Email: watterscreek@trademarkproperty.com
Phone: 972.747.8000
Or by visiting the Watters Creek Management Office at 970 Garden Park Drive, Allen, TX 75013
Cash, Check and all major credit cards will be accepted.
*Attendees must be 21 years of age.
For more information please call:972.747.8000
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From what I know of the Watters Creek development and developers, this event will be a first-class, fun-filled evening... and it even benefits a good cause (Meals on Wheels). Enjoy!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

An inside source just gave me the opening dates for many of the merchants in The Village at Allen (SE corner of Stacy & 75). So, if you just can't wait to go shopping there, mark your calendars! In order to publish these, I had to swear to make note that "All dates/times are subject to change." While the dates/times for the bigger stores are pretty solid, those for the smaller stores could certainly vary by a day or two... So, with all the disclaimers out of the way, here you are:

Happy shopping!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

I'm not talking about a theater (as in a building most people associate with movies), I'm talking about a theater with theatre... where thespians act and you can enjoy it with friends and family live and in-person (all without driving more than a few minutes from your home). The Spotlight Theater is right here in Allen, TX and has an encore presentation of "Lost in Yonkers" playing at present. However, they need the support of the community... so if you love the perfoming arts, the Spotlight Theater is asking you to buy tickets and answer the question for their future: To be, or not to be (that, after all, is the question). All kidding aside, I got this in an email from a friend:
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PLEASE SEND OUT TO ALL ON YOUR MAILING LIST AND POST FLYER WHERE EVER YOU CAN.  WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT TO KEEP THE THEATRE ARTS IN ALLEN TEXAS.  THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!!

Spotlight Theatre Presents:
Neil Simon's - "LOST IN YONKERS"
Encore Presentation!
September 25th - October 19th
Back By Popular Demand!
For Tickets Call: 972-649-6140
www.spotlightallen.com
109-B North Greenville Ave. Allen, Texas 75002
(next door to Brookshire's on the NW corner of Main St. & N. Greenville Ave)

WANT TO SUPPORT US?  BUT A TICKET FOR THE SHOW and BRING YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!
WE ALSO NEED SHOW SPONSORS, INVIDUAL SPONSORS, ADVERTISERS and VOLUNTEERS!
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I hope you go and enjoy the show!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

I must say, I'm quite excited about the latest press release I read a day or two ago. I've known about this for a few months now, but I was sworn to secrecy until the formal announcement was made. Well, it's official... the latest addition that was just announced to the lineup at The Village at Allen (190 and Stacy Rd.) will be: Uncle Julio's (opening October 6th). Besides serving GREAT Mexican food (some the best fajitas and most wonderful ceviche around), you simply have to try one of their stupendous swirls. The Uncle Julio's Swirl is a frozen feast of margarita and sangria that is sure to make even the hardest working area residents forget their troubles... even if just until happy hour is over. I'm serious though, I can't wait! The nearest Uncle Julio's at present is in the North Dallas/Addison area or the one in downtown Dallas. Allen is really coming into our own with great shopping, dining, and more and Uncle Julio's is further proof of just that. Check out the press release: 

UNCLE JULIO'S TO OPEN IN ALLEN OCTOBER 6

Restaurant is company’s first location in Collin County

ALLEN, Texas -- Let the aroma of smoky grilled fajitas or sizzling shrimp brochettes lure you. Savor the full flavor that only freshly picked ingredients can produce in the roasted vegetables and spicy salsa. Taste the authentic border flavor in the marinated beef skirt steak, or the uniquely grilled quail. A custom margarita, created from your choice of more than 15 different tequilas, awaits your first sip. Festive surroundings, attentive wait staff and lively music make Uncle Julio’s an engaging experience.

The fiesta begins October 6, when Uncle Julio's opens its newest restaurant in Allen, Texas. Located in the Village at Allen at 190 E. Stacy Rd., this location is the company’s 13th restaurant and its first in Collin County.

In addition to serving lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, the Allen location will also cater home and office parties -- serving fresh, mesquite grilled favorites cooked on the spot.

The newest Uncle Julio's will feature the same combination of Mexican cooking expertise with Texas ingredients that coined a style of food based on America's oldest regional cuisine. Uncle Julio's stays loyal to its heritage by offering high-quality food that mirrors the original fare cooked by cowboys on the plains more than a century ago.

Specialties at Uncle Julio's include Fajitas al Carbon; Camarones Brochette (bacon-wrapped jumbo shrimp stuffed with Monterrey Jack cheese and jalapenos); Quail a la Parilla, mesquite grilled to perfection; and the Swirl margarita, a frozen margarita layered with homemade frozen sangria.

Modeled after a 100-year-old hacienda, the new restaurant features a spacious outdoor patio, a sports room/bar area for appetizers featuring a 60-inch TV, and cozy interior and exterior fireplaces. The interior consists of several rooms decorated with a mixture of wood, plaster, polished concrete and cantera stone. Large windows, authentic large hand hewn beams, hand-painted murals and a variety of fresh colors blend to create a perfect setting for fun and great food.

"This new restaurant illustrates our commitment at Uncle Julio's to making the finest food and the best dining experience available for our guests. First and foremost we want to run the best restaurants, and only then do we turn our attention to growth, and opening more restaurants," said Todd Conger, president and chief operating officer. "With Collin County’s growth, we’ve selected a thriving area for our newest location."

"Uncle Julio’s will add to the diverse mix of restaurants at The Village at Allen and The Village at Fairview, providing a festive environment for our guests to enjoy outstanding Mexican cuisine," said Gar Herring, president of The MGHerring Group.

The Village at Allen is one component of The MGHerring Group’s three-million-square-foot, regional, mixed-use lifestyle development located in both Allen and Fairview, Texas, at the intersection of U.S. 75 and Stacy Road. The Village at Allen and The Village at Fairview will be separated by Stacy Road but are designed and being developed as one project.

The first Uncle Julio’s (www.unclejulios.com) opened in Dallas in 1986 and with the opening in Allen, Uncle Julio’s Corporation will operate 13 restaurants in four major metropolitan areas: Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago, Atlanta and the Washington, DC, area. Uncle Julio's provides the freshest and highest quality "border style" Mexican food in large, reasonably priced portions. The company’s mission, creating hospitality, fun and value, shows in everything from the food to the atmosphere.

Contacts: Suzanne Flodin, suzanne@hopkinspr.com; (214) 500-4289

Deena Killlingsworth, deena@hopkinspr.com, (972) 202-3497

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Again, though they have LOTS of great food, let me recommend the ceviche to start, beef and chicken combo fajitas for your meal, and a superb swirl (or two) to wash it all down. See you at the grand opening fiesta... save me una silla!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

Just saw this press release from the developer (The MGHerring Group) about a Whole Foods Market® coming to The Village:

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The MGHerring Group has announced that Whole Foods Market® will join the retail line-up at The Village at Fairview, one component of the 3,000,000 square-foot, regional, mixed-use lifestyle development located in both Fairview and Allen, Texas.

Whole Foods Market®, the world's leading natural and organic foods supermarket, will occupy 45,000 square feet at The Village at Fairview. It joins the project's 1,000,000 square-foot retail component, which includes anchors Dillard's, Macy's, JCPenney, The Container Store and Barnes & Noble.

The Village at Fairview includes 500,000 square feet of specialty shops and restaurants; a 200,000 square-foot, class-A office building; approximately 675 multi-family residential units; a 280-room hotel with an adjoining 80,000 square-foot conference center; and an eight-screen Village Roadshow Gold Class Cinema.

"Adding the country's preeminent specialty grocer to The Village at Fairview fulfills one of the final pieces of making this development a true mixed-use project," said Gar Herring, president of The MGHerring Group. "Executing a lease with Whole Foods Market is another thrilling achievement for The Village at Fairview as we continue to exceed people's expectations for our project."

The Village at Fairview will open August 5, 2009. Construction will begin on Whole Foods Market® later this year. Falcon Realty Advisors, a division of Falcon Companies, negotiated the deal on behalf of Whole Foods Market®.

The Village at Fairview is being developed in conjunction with The Village at Allen. The site for the mixed-use development is located on 400 acres at the northeast and southeast corners of Stacy Road and US 75 in Collin County. The Village at Fairview and The Village at Allen will be separated by Stacy Road but are being designed and developed as one project.

Together, The Village at Fairview and The Village at Allen comprise the largest mixed-use development in Texas and also one of the largest in the United States. Upon completion, the project will include 2,000,000 square feet of retail and 1,000,000 square feet of office, residential and hotel space.

About Whole Foods Market®
Whole Foods Market® (www.wholefoodsmarket.com) is the world's leading natural and organic foods supermarket and America's first national certified organic grocer. In fiscal year 2007, the company had sales of $6.6 billion and currently has more than 270 stores in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Whole Foods Market® employs more than 53,000 Team Members and has been ranked for 11 consecutive years as one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" in America by FORTUNE magazine.

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Between Market Street, Whole Foods, and Super Target, there will be a whole new world of grocery shopping for local residents.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

I just heard the news: Bennigan's and Steak & Ale have closed their doors (possibly for good)! I quickly called our local Bennigan's and... yikes... no answer! My heart goes out to those who lost their jobs... and to Monte Cristo lovers everywhere. I often joked that they should offer a "free angioplasty" with every 10 purchased. Now, I'll no longer be able to enjoy their version of the incredibly great-tasting, though unbelievably unhealthy, fried sandwich of ham and cheese. Read all about the closures as I did here:

Bennigan's, Steak &Ale Close Doors, File for Bankruptcy Protection

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While one friend attributed this to a bad economy (higher food costs, fewer people eating out, etc.), another said this wouldn't affect the chains quickly, that the chains had been getting away from their roots for years (Bennigan's is hardly serving just pub food anymore). So, is this due to a sagging economy, or mismanagement that has been running the company into the ground for years? Post your comments below...

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

In case you've been wondering, the developers and partners of the new Allen Arena (A.K.A. Events Center) are planning to celebrate its ground breaking in just a few days, on July 24th. The entire timeline for its construction is still tentative at this point, but thought to look like this:

• Ground Breaking - July 24, 2008
• Sales Expo - September 17-19, 2008
• Central Hockey League Franchise Announcement (?) - November 1, 2008
• Temporary Office Opens - December 2008
• Second Anchor Tenant Announcement (?) - February 2009
• Sales Expo - Spring 2009
• Topping Off - April 23, 2009
• Grand Opening - October 15, 2009

I can't be certain, but since the timeline is tentative anyway, I'm guessing that the (?) items are VERY tentative and/or might not happen at all. However, press releases indicate that we should be getting a minor league hockey team:

http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS108841+05-Jun-2008+BW20080605

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

I've already mentioned how the Allen Events Center will have events like minor league hockey and Disney on Ice. These will be on the "main ice," but there will be a second sheet of ice nearby that you might enjoy as well. Potential programs for the second sheet of ice include:

• Public Skating
• Freestyle Skating
• Figure Skating
• Learn-to-skate programs
• Private lessons
• Adult open hockey
• Youth open hockey
• Youth "Stick and puck" programs
• Learn-to-play hocky programs
• Learn-to-figure skate programs
• Short track speed skating
• Special events like birthday parties, corporate team building, etc.
• Curling
• Youth and adult tournaments
• Women's hockey
• High school hockey teams and tournaments
• Club events
• Summer camps
• City leagues
• Broom-ball and more!

Personally, after hearing all that will be offered , I can't wait for the new Events Center to open... but of course, I'll have to. It's not scheduled to open for until late 2009. I'll publish the tentative timeline for groundbreaking, construction and completion later this week.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

Good news for those who love to curl-up with a good book: Bookstore chain Borders Group Inc. plans to debut a huge new "concept store" in Allen this August. The store will be located at the giant new development called Watters Creek at Montgomery Farms, which is on the SW corner of Highway 75 and Bethany Drive. Specifically, Boarders will be located right next to the Market Street supermarket with an entrance facing their shared parking lot and another around back from the walking paths and streets in the Watters Creek development. Borders is said to be opening an additional 13 similar stores this year nationwide. They said the new Allen store will create 65 jobs and, I'm guessing, immense joy for book worms all over Allen and surrounding cities. They also said the concept store "represents a significant enhancement over existing Borders stores" and that it will feature a new interior look along with Internet-based services in the store. It sounds to me like they're trying to create the book store of the future. Obviously, Boarders doesn't think the Internet and the latest, portable, "digital books" (that let you download new books without ever visiting a store) will be the end of the traditional book store. We tend to agree, so my wife Sarah and I are looking forward to the new store.

"With its many avid book, music and movie lovers - together with its vibrant culture and rich history - Allen is a wonderful community for a concept store, and we are anxious for customers to start enjoying all that the store will offer this summer," said Vince Vizza, vice president of real estate for Borders Group.

Within the new store, Allen (and surrounding community) residents should get to enjoy:

• A digital center where customers can make their own CDs and download books and music to publish their own books, explore their family history and create photo books.
• Special areas for cooking, wellness, travel, graphic novels and children's sections that feature books, DVDs and related merchandise as well as programming shown on 32-inch LCD screens and computer kiosks.
• A Seattle's Best Coffee cafe that will serve beverages and fresh food.
• A Paperchase shop selling notebooks, journals, wrapping paper, greeting cards and other gifts and stationery items from U.K.-based Paperchase Products Ltd.
• Internet access available storewide through an alliance with T-Mobile.
• Self-serve search stations so that customers can check the availability of a title and its location in the store. Bonus: After Borders launches its Web site this year, customers will be able to order items at the kiosk and have their order shipped to their home or to the store. I'm asuming, perhaps, items that are not in stock or maybe even gifts wrapped and sent directly to someone special.

Click Here for Border's Press Release.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

While it is looking like their biggest, this will hardly be the first "Events Center" (the modern term for "Arena") by Global Entertainment Corporation (GEC). With six already in operation, and two more opening soon (in addition to the one in Allen, TX), we should certainly benefit from GEC's years of experiance, and the multiple arena projects, that have come before ours. Here's a list of those in operation and those opening soon:

• Budweiser Center - Loveland, CO (Opened in 2003)
• Dodge Arena - Hidalgo, TX (2003)
• Chevrolet Centre - Youngstown, OH (2005)
• Santa Ana Star Center - Rio Rancho, NM (2006)
• Broomfield Events Center - Broomfield, CO (2006)
• Tim's Toyota Center - Prescott Valley, AZ (2006)
• Greater Wenatchee Regional Events Center - Wenatchee, WA (Opening Fall 2008)
• Independence Events Center - Independence, MI (Opening Fall 2009)
• Allen, TX Events Center (opening Fall 2009) (naming rights yet to be sold)

Based on those already in operation, the Events Center will be very nice, impressive even. So, what type of entertainers and events can we expect at our fancy new Events Center? Lets take a look at some of the acts already performing at some of these arenas (above) to get an idea:

• Sugarland
• Rage in the Cage
• Black Eagle Pow Wow
• Michael Buble
• Dierks Bently
• George Jones
• 2008 Home & Garden Show
• Disney on Ice (High School Musical, Nemo, etc.)
• Sesame Street Live
• Avril Lavigne
• George Lopez
• Fall Out Boy with Plain White Tees
• Kid Rock
• Ringling Bros & Barnum & Bailey Circus
• Cirque du Soleil

And here are a few possible future bookings they're working on for various arenas:

• Trans Siberian Orchestra
• Jonas Brothers
• My Chemical Romance
• Marilyn Manson
• Norah Jones
• Nelly Furtado
• Hary Conick Jr.
• Fergie
• Marc Antonia Solis

So, as you can see, they tend to book entertainment for young and old... and many different tastes. One thing is for sure, there's going to be a lot more excitement around here in the months and years to come... and that's not to mention all that will go on at the attached "second sheet of ice". Read more about this in a future post... Click on "RSS BlogFeed" on the right then "Learn more about feeds" or "Subscribe to this feed" to be kept in the loop.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com