Connectivity between people pops up in the most unlikely places. Like on the service drive at Park Place Lexus Plano. That’s where two fellow team members, who didn’t know each other from Adam, first discovered that they shared a surprisingly meaningful connection- and no, it wasn’t that they both worked at Park Place.
It All Started with a Vowel (read more to see “Y”)
One sunny morning back in 2013, Brandon Gillespy, body shop manager at Park Place BodyWerks, was at the service drive at Park Place Lexus Plano, picking up a client vehicle for transport to the body shop in Dallas.
“This guy comes over to me, big smile, introduces himself and asks if I’m related to Jamie Gillespy,” Brandon recalls.
The guy was Don Mitchell, sales experience manager at Lexus Plano. The unusual spelling of Brandon’s last name, with a “y” instead of an “ie,” caught Don’s eye.
“My daughter Meredith was always raving about a wonderful teacher at Plano’s Jasper High School named Jamie Gillespy,” Don explains. “Jamie taught an elective course in ASL, or American Sign language, and Meredith absolutely adored Jamie and I remembered the unique spelling. So Brandon and I both remarked on what a small world it was.”
In most cases, a random coincidence like that results in a pleasant conversation and that’s the end of it.
But then something else happened. Two somethings, in fact.
Jamie-Mania
First, Brandon became increasingly aware that his wife was starting to enjoy a kind of Jamie-mania.
“Since that moment, it seems like anywhere we go, a store or a restaurant in Frisco or Plano, we hear someone yell, “MISS G!” And then a former student runs across the room to give my wife a giant hug. Don’s story first opened my eyes to this phenomenon, and since then it’s been nonstop. And a lot of fun for both of us!”
Jamie Gillespy, ASL teacher at Frisco Centennial High School with husband, Brandon Gillespy, Body Shop Manager at Park Place BodyWerks
Second, Jamie’s impact on Meredith carried on well past the classroom into adulthood. After graduating from Plano Senior High, she went on to earn an education degree at the University of Arkansas and is, in fact, now a teacher at a Title 1 school in Springdale, Arkansas.
Don Mitchell, Sales Experience Manager at Lexus Plano with daughter and teacher Meredith.
“Meredith was already starting to show a passion for teaching, and Jamie really reinforced a lot of the values that made teaching a compelling career choice,” says Don. “My mother was a teacher, and just like Jamie, her example had life-lasting positive impacts on her students, too. Meredith is that same kind of person, that same kind of teacher.”
Don Mitchell, Sales Experience Manager at Lexus Plano with daughter and teacher Meredith.
“I felt inspired to learn how much my wife meant to Don’s daughter,” says Brandon, noting that Jamie is now the ASL teacher at Frisco Centennial High School as well as Student Council Sponsor. He’s especially proud that the school created a video about what her days are like during this time of uncertainty. Check it out.
Park Place Cares
Don and Brandon’s story alludes to just one of the reasons why Park Place has been such a passionate supporter of education over the past 30+ years. After discovering their small-world connection and shared values, these two members are even more gratified that their chosen place of work, Park Place, actively supports education as a corporate initiative, sponsoring the Teacher of the Year program in nine local school districts. The company is also active in the Plano ISD Education Foundation’s Grants to Educators program.
“I was amazed when I first learned of the connection between Don and Brandon, as well as Jamie and Meredith,” says Anam Ali-Hashambhai, Experiential Marketing Manager at Park Place.
“It really brought home to me that the Park Place commitment to education is all about connecting people, ideas, inspiration and creativity. These kinds of connections are out there, and makes our Teacher of the Year sponsorship even that more special and personal.”
Thank You, Thank You
“I was honored to attend a ‘Teacher of the Year’ event where I represented Park Place, says Don. “But I was even more honored and proud to be the parent of a teacher.”
“Showing educators that they’re valued is outstanding,” adds Brandon. “I’m really glad that Park Place is willing to show this kind of commitment. Especially since I married into a family of teachers. Jamie’s mother, aunt and grandmother are all or were teachers. It’s important that we honor teachers for the lifelong impact they have on their students.”
So has this connection also spawned a friendship between Don and Brandon?
“Oh yeah,” smiles Brandon. “We’re good pals.”
“Who do you think sold Jamie her Lexus?” teases Don.
Carter BloodCare says their ability to provide blood to hospitals for urgent transfusion needs of patients has been in severe jeopardy. Recently, Carter BloodCare and Park Place Dealerships came together for a blood drive that has potentially made the difference in 339 lives.
Members from Park Place Motorcars in Arlington Participate in the #ParkPlaceCares Blood Drive
“The members at Park Place Dealerships are extremely generous with their time and resources, including their blood,” noted Dave Evans, Chief Marketing Officer for Park Place Dealerships. “We asked members if they would like to participate in this event and we had an overwhelming response. We were happy to know this event made the difference for people in need.”
Members from Park Place Motorcars in Arlington Participate in the #ParkPlaceCares Blood DriveMembers from Park Place Motorcars in Arlington Participate in the #ParkPlaceCares Blood Drive
Members from Park Place Volvo Participate in the #ParkPlaceCares Blood Drive
Park Place Dealerships hosted the blood drive over two days at seven locations with 114 donors and 113 units collected equating to about 339 lives saved. Park Place encourages more Dallas/Fort Worth companies to organize blood drives throughout the summer, especially during the period of critical need.
Park Place Porsche General Manager, Patrick Huston, leads the charge to donate blood during the #ParkPlaceCares Blood DriveMembers from Park Place in Dallas Participate in the #ParkPlaceCares Blood Drive
IMPORTANCE OF A BLOOD DRIVE
The pandemic’s impact on the blood supply has been profound and sudden. Blood drives were cancelled after businesses, school, universities and houses of worship shut down. Giving blood is essential with or without the COVID-19 pandemic.
Blood donors are the only way to provide for transfusions because blood cannot be manufactured. Since the state of Texas has reopened, hospitals are trying to resume a full capacity of medical and surgical services. Six hundred to 800 patients a day require transfusions.
SIGN-UP WITH CARTER BLOODCARE
Companies and the community can get more information or sign up to give blood at carterbloodcare.org.
Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 by Ken Schnitzer with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership in Dallas. For the past 33 years, the company has been engaged in the community supporting the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy and education. Park Place employs more than 1,500 members and operates 18 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Koenigsegg, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, Maserati and Aston Martin. For more info, visit parkplace.com.
Malcolm Gage Enrolled in Pre-Med Courses at SMU until a Part-Time Job Led Him Down a Different Road
Malcolm R. Gage Jr., current General Manager at Park Place Motorcars Arlington, never envisioned a career in the automotive industry. In fact, he was in a Pre-Med program at Southern Methodist University in 1997 when his college roommate suggested he could get Malcolm a job at a Lewisville Ford dealership during his college break.
“My friend thought my quick wit and personality would be a good fit,” recalled Gage. “Reluctantly, I took his advice, and they hired me the same day I interviewed. I fell in love with the job, and changed my focus to a career in the automotive industry. Now, 23 years later, I know it was the right decision.”
A Journey to Automotive
In 2005, Gage joined Park Place Dealerships as New Car Sales Manager at Park Place Motorcars Bedford, which is now located in Grapevine. Gage quickly rose up the ranks at Park Place, where he spent the past five years as New Car Sales Director at the Park Place Premier Collection in Dallas, representing luxury brands Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Maserati, and McLaren. He was recently named General Manager at Park Place Motorcars Arlington.
“The automotive business is unlike any other,” said Gage. “I’ve made some amazing contacts, and it’s given me opportunities I never could’ve imagined. Having the opportunity to work in state-of-the-art facilities with world-class brands, and interacting with professionals of the highest caliber, one cannot put a value on that. I consider myself blessed to have reached this point, but I credit a lot of mentors and managers that have supported me and given me guidance to reach this point.”
Rolls-Royce Sales Manager of the Year, Coach of the Year, and SMU Alum
Some of his greatest accomplishments are being named Coach of the Year from two different Park Place dealerships, and being part of teams that were recognized as Dealerships of the Year, both nationally and internationally. Gage was also named the first-ever Rolls-Royce Sales Manager of the Year by Rolls-Royce Motorcars North America.
“As leaders of this organization, we try to predict future trends based on metrics and the past,” explained Gage. “But there are so many external factors that can affect it at any moment. Hiring and retaining the best talent is a challenge, but we pride ourselves on our industry-leading retention rates. I think the biggest challenge is probably the pressure we put on ourselves to exceed expectations.”
Gage graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Affairs and Corporate Communications, and he is still involved with the SMU Alumni Association. He is an Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Lifetime Member, and he volunteers with Equality Texas, the Human Rights Campaign, the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, and several other organizations.
“I’m involved with these organizations to give back to the Dallas/Fort Worth community that has given so much to me. Much of my success in this industry has been from networking and forming relationships with business and civic leaders in the area. I’ve always believed in dedicating time to serve others.”
Featured on the Food Network, Too!
Food Network fans may remember Malcolm Gage and Ophelia’s New Soul co-owner Cordey Lash as winners of the acclaimed TV show’s Food Court Wars. Formerly located in Plano’s Collin Creek Mall Food Court, Ophelia’s New Soul launched in 2014 and specialized in modern interpretations of classic soul food dishes served in a fast, yet relaxed, atmosphere.
“We have been approached by fans of the restaurant asking if we were going to open a new location,” Gage explains. “But I think my time in the restaurant industry has passed. We achieved great success and national recognition with Ophelia’s New Soul, and it allowed us to create a franchising plan for someone who might want to continue the brand. Who knows what the future holds? It’s still a treat to see the episode on Food Network at times.”
Park Place Motorcars Arlington is located at 4201 Beltway Place off I-20 at S. Center Street. Founded in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn in Dallas, Park Place Dealerships also represents luxury brands Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Maserati, McLaren, Koenigsegg, Lexus, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar and Land Rover. For more information, visit parkplace.com.
NORTH TEXAS FOOD BANK RECEIVES $21,000 DONATION TO SUPPORT FAMILY MEALS
IRVING, Texas (April 10, 2020) – The North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) has seen a tremendous demand for nutritious food as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. Park Place Dealerships mobilized its clients, partners and members and together raised more than $21,000 to help feed families in the community.
The Food Bank’s mobile pantry generally serves an average of 300 households. Distributions recently have surged from 1,000 to almost 2,000 households in the last few weeks because of COVID-19.
“In these challenging times we are glad to support the community and are humbled by the generosity of our clients and members,” said Dave Evans, Chief Marketing Officer of Park Place Dealerships. “Now, more than ever, we must find ways to help each other get through this unprecedented period.”
The North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) is a top-ranked nonprofit hunger-relief organization operating a state-of-the-art volunteer and distribution center in Plano. Last year, the Food Bank provided almost 77 million nutritious meals across a diverse 13-county service area serving more than 200,000 meals per day for hungry children, seniors, and families.
The need for hunger relief in North Texas is complex and in order to meet the need, the NTFB is working to increase food distribution efforts with a goal to provide access to 92 million nutritious meals annually by 2025.
Over the past 30 years, Park Place has helped more than 300 community organizations across North Texas. The company supports philanthropic efforts in the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education.
Founded in 1987, Park Place operates 18 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Koenigsegg, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, and Maserati. For more info, visit parkplace.com.
The first thing you notice about Lorien Lippen is her extraordinary energy in her 10-million-megawatt smile, her lively banter, and the intensity of her gaze – when she focuses on you, she’s focused on YOU.
All About Foundations
She brings this engaging magic to all Park Place University programs, like “Foundations,” the weekly onboarding experience that welcomes brand-new Park Place team members. In a room full of new members, she quickly, and genuinely, puts everyone at ease. Within minutes, the once-perfect strangers are interacting cheerfully as she guides the group through the program’s various modules and activities.
All programs are created by the Organization Development team, the six-person department she leads, and align with Park Place’s culture, values, and business goals.
“Our team’s core focus is to deliver extraordinary learning experiences that make Park Place, My Place, for all members,” she explains. “We provide a deep, welcoming experience to all new members through “Foundations,” and reinforce the importance of our client experience through more specific training such as the ‘One Touch’ sales program for Sales Experience Managers, the ‘Service Experience’ for Assistant Service Managers and the ‘Valet Experience’ for Service Valets. It’s about providing the best programs to meet the members’ needs and lead to extraordinary client experiences.”
A Force of Good for Park Place
Simply put, Lorien Lippen is a force of nature. And fortunately for Park Place, she’s been our force for good since joining in July 2018. Why did she venture into this field of learning, development and coaching?
“I was often the student helping the others in my classes. Working with someone on a challenge, and then watching them find their way through it is truly rewarding,” she says.
Knowing her passion before leaving high school, she went on to receive her M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Cincinnati, and went on to help others pursue their own excellence and passion with such notable companies as NBCUniversal, Creative Artists Agency, DIRECTV, American Honda Motor Company and The Walt Disney Company.
All that magic might explain her multiplicity of certifications in skill-based development programs that encompass leadership development, executive coaching, change management, performance management, succession planning, talent review, and competency modeling, just to name a few.
A Little Personal
On the personal side, she admits to being somewhat of a bookworm and devours novels like “Goldfinch” by Donna Tartt, “All the Light You Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr and “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen.
She and her husband Ryan also get a huge kick out of the film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” “Endlessly funny,” she says. They pair it with her favorite comfort food – “Homemade pizza with pepperoni, black olives and mushrooms! Absolute heaven, I could eat it every day.”
A trained classical pianist, she relaxes by playing favorites – favorite composers include Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff, and Chopin – and credits her high school music theory instructor, Mr. Lassaine, with teaching her an important life lesson she still lives by.
“I was being overly disruptive in class, and he pulled me aside to ask what was going on,” she confesses. “I began complaining about how early I had to wake up and the long commute. And he looked me in the eye and said, ‘Hey, you earned your spot, but if you don’t want it, somebody else will gladly take your place. So you need to choose if you want to be here, otherwise you’re wasting my time and yours.’”
“I was a little shocked but he was right,” she admits. “The lesson was that life is about choice, and whatever you commit to, commit fully. It was good advice then, it’s still good advice now, and I try to follow it every day.”
The event raised more than $420,000 for the Dallas Stars Foundation, breaking last year’s fundraising record for the most money raised in a single night.
Laughter filled the venue as fans and players bantered back and forth while playing blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker.
“I’ve attended every Stars Casino Night except one,” said 87-year-old Doris Seabolt of Carrollton, who worked as a waitress at Waffle House for 49 years.
“About 10 years ago bad weather prevented her from making it to Casino Night,” explained her daughter Deborah Dunn. “But that’s the only way she would miss it. She looks forward to this event all year. She loves talking to the players.”
A Night of Events
Fans had the opportunity to bid on a selection of autographed memorabilia, including jerseys and hockey sticks signed by current and retired athletes, as well as unique experiences. Guests enjoyed food prepared by III Forks Steakhouse and specialty drinks made with Spanish liqueur Licor 43 and Brown Sugar Bourbon.
“Casino Night is an exciting opportunity for fans to engage with players and coaches,” said Jordan Case, president of Park Place Dealerships (pictured far right in the photo below). “While a fun event for fans, it also helps fund youth programs in our community. Park Place has been a part of Casino Night for the past 15 years. Our brands are perfectly aligned in expecting excellence on the ice and at the dealership for our clients.”
The Dallas Stars Foundation focuses its efforts on providing support to the children in the community through youth hockey programs, youth engagement, health and education. More information is available at www.nhl.com/stars/community
Over the past 30 years, Park Place has helped raise millions of dollars in for more than 300 community organizations across North Texas. Last year, the luxury automotive group introduced Park Place Cares to represent their philanthropic efforts in the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education.
Founded in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn, Park Place operates 17 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, and Maserati. For more info, visit parkplace.com.
Grapevine and Plano Lexus dealerships hosting a children’s book drive
benefiting Reading Partners North Texas
Park Place Lexus dealerships in Grapevine and Plano are hosting a book drive starting February 17 through March 2 to collect children’s books to benefit Reading Partners North Texas.
Drop off new and gently used children’s books for ages newborn-to-seven years old February 17 – March 2 anytime between 8:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday – Friday or 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday at the Park Place Lexus dealerships in Grapevine or Plano. Then, help spread the word by using the hashtags #LexusBookDrive and #ParkPlaceCares on social media.
Why Books?
A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics established that reading to children of any age awakens regions in their brain responsible for grasping words and key concepts tied to memory, which directly affects their trajectory for lifetime learning. Unfortunately, nearly 40% of children arrive at kindergarten without these basic skills. Consequently, children who start behind usually stay behind, leading to an increase in the dropout rate, especially among low-income students.
“There are a surprising number of families who don’t have a single children’s book in their home,” said Anam Ali, Experiential Marketing Manager at Park Place Dealerships. “For the two weeks leading up to Read Across America Day (March 2), we’re asking the community to help provide books for kids. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and succeed in life.”
Why Reading Partners North Texas
Reading Partners North Texas has been a part of the Dallas educational landscape since 2012, when they launched a program at George W. Truett Elementary School and Roger Q. Mills Elementary School serving 80 students. Since then, they’ve placed thousands of community volunteers in low-income schools to help kids master basic reading skills. Their one-on-one tutoring empowers students to succeed in reading and in life by engaging community volunteers to provide individualized, personal attention to each student in the program.
Where to Park Your Books
Park Place Lexus Grapevine is located on the northwest corner of State Highway 114 at Minters Chapel Road (901 E. Highway 114) near DFW Airport. Park Place Lexus Plano is located at 6785 Dallas Parkway, on the southwest corner of Spring Creek Parkway and the Dallas North Tollway.
Over the past 30 years, Park Place has helped raise millions of dollars for more than 300 community organizations across North Texas. Last year, the luxury automotive group introduced Park Place Cares to represent their philanthropic efforts in the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education.
Founded in 1987, Park Place operates 18 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Karma, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, and Maserati. For more info, visit parkplace.com.
Team approach key to finding, keeping and promoting great people.
“Finding people is easy,” says Park Place Recruiting Director Matt Howe. “Finding talent is another thing entirely. That’s where our team comes in.”
Howe joined Park Place with one goal in mind – build a united team dedicated to bringing the best and brightest to Park Place.
But he’s quick to point out that it’s a job that goes well outside the hours of 9-5.
“Good recruiters are always looking for top talent, even during nights and weekends. Everyone you meet could be a candidate, or a source for other great people,” he says.
He also points out the importance of internal referrals. “If you’re a member, we’d very much like to meet your friends and family members, because if they’re like you, chances are we’ll like them, too.”
Meet the team!
Bailie Fabik
Three years in recruiting, the last 22 months at Park Place.
Graduated Texas A&M (BA in History and minor in Sociology).
Specializing in Fixed Ops positions: Technicians/Tech Trainees, ASM/Internal ASM/ASM Trainee, Estimators, Body Techs, Detailers, PDR Technicians.
The best thing to happen to me in 2019 – engaged to my boyfriend of 5 years and getting married next summer!
Josh Gonzalez
Five years in recruiting, joined Park Place in May 2019.
Previously recruited for Richardson Police Department (youth program).
Graduated UT Dallas (BS in Psychology and Criminology minor).
Responsible for Valet/Car Wash/Parts Warehouse/Parts Specialist roles and miscellaneous hourly roles.
Has a 2-year old Miniature Schnauzer.
Jaqueline Ramos
Joined Park Place in 2015 at Park Place Motorcars Arlington, joined recruiting in 2019.
Responsible for adding new hires to MyHR, create PAF, track background/drug test, start date.
UT Arlington (Bachelors in both Spanish and Psychology).
Fluent in English and Spanish, understand French, currently studying Russian and German.
Jerold Varghese
Joined Park Place in September 2017 as SEM at Lexus Grapevine. Moved to Recruiting in July 2019.
Responsible for Sales and Variable Operations.
Bachelor’s in Accounting from DeVry, MBA in Finance from Keller Graduate School.
Fluent in four languages (English, Hindi, Malayalam, Urdu) and lived in Saudi Arabia, India, and the U.S. before turning 21.
Steven Spiker
Joined Park Place in August 2018 – 19 years in the automotive industry.
Recruiting for all Mercedes stores, Porsche Dallas and new JLR in Austin.
Two great kids who are “my world,” two dogs and loves golf.
Matt Howe, Director
Joined Park Place in August 2018.
Has been an automotive industry recruiter for the last 6 years
Responsible for managing the overall recruiting workflow for Park Place.
Graduate of Georgetown Prep and Washington College with a BA in Political Science and Government.
Paratrooper in U.S. Army 82nd Airborne and Weapons Intelligence Sergeant in U.S. Army Reserve.
They say good things comes to those who wait, but “they” clearly weren’t thinking about the new V8-powered Lexus LC 500 Convertible. Introduced at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, the 2021 LC Convertible will go on sale this summer, but those champing at the bit can place a bid on a one-of-a-kind LC Convertible as quickly as next week at the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. The auction will take place at approximately 4:30 p.m. Mountain Standard Time on January 17, 2020. Every cent of the hammer price will be split evenly between two very deserving charities – Boys & Girls Clubs of America® and the Bob Woodruff Foundation.
ONE-OF-A-KIND CONVERTIBLE
All 2021 LC 500 Convertibles are powered by an impressive naturally-aspirated V8 engine that produces 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, but there are several things that make the LC 500 Convertible auction vehicle* truly one of a kind. For starters, collectors will gush over the fact that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) will feature the final six digits of 100001. Based on the Inspiration Series, it will feature the breathtaking Structural Blue exterior paint and elegant white semi-aniline leather interior, but this vehicle will include unique blue brake calipers that are tucked behind the exclusive 21-inch Liquid Graphite-colored forged alloy wheels with gloss black accents. Liquid Platinum color accents can be found on the headlamp garnishes, side intake garnish, side mirrors and taillamps. Inside each door, the auction vehicle will be fitted with carbon-fiber scuff plates with the note: “LC Inspiration Series Launch Exclusive 1 of 1.”
An impressive collection of additional collectibles and experiences are included in the auction package as well. The winner will receive a framed sketch of the LC Convertible, a portfolio with production-line photos and a one-of-one certificate signed by vehicle chief engineers as well as general manager of the Motomachi plant where the vehicle is produced. The auction winner will also receive the very first luggage set from iconic travel brand Zero Halliburton’s new design series with custom Lexus cues – which, importantly, fits nicely into the LC Convertible’s trunk. The highest bidder will also receive a curated driving package that includes a Lexus Performance Driving Experience with brand ambassador Scott Pruett, a three-night hotel stay for two at Pebble Beach Resort, a round of golf for two at Pebble Beach Golf Course, and more.
RAISING MONEY FOR CHILDREN & VETERANS
Every cent raised from the auction of the LC 500 Convertible will be donated to two charities: Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Bob Woodruff Foundation. Boys & Girls Clubs of America focuses on creating after-school programs for kids and teens across the nation, with the goal being “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.” The Bob Woodruff Foundation finds, funds and shapes programs benefitting post-9/11 impacted veterans, service members and their families long after their time in uniform.
“We’re very excited to expand our flagship LC family with the launch of the all-new 2021 LC 500 Convertible, but the most important thing about the auction is the money we raise for two amazing charities,” says Lisa Materazzo, vice president, Lexus Marketing. “We’re thrilled to support Boys & Girls Clubs of America in its efforts to provide services to children across the country as well as the Bob Woodruff Foundation’s goal to help our veterans and their families.”
The vehicle will go on the auction block at approximately 4:30 p.m. Mountain Standard Time on Friday, January 17. The vehicle auction page can be found here. Those interested in bidding can do so by either registering as a bidder on Barrett-Jackson.com (click on “Bid”) or on-site in the auction office. In addition to in-person bidding, there are online, phone and absentee options available. The auction can also be viewed live via the Livestream on the home page of Barrett-Jackson.com.
*The LC 500 Convertible prototype on display at Barrett-Jackson will be representative of the actual production vehicle that will be delivered in the summer of 2020.
No medical degree was required to evaluate 11-year-old Cory’s excitement when he saw the bright yellow, 2020 McLaren 720S parked in front of Children’s Medical Center Dallas. His jaw dropped open and he shot his mom a quick look that implored, “Is this for real?!?”
“We’ve worked with Park Place for many years,” explained Audra Cozart, Corporate Partnership Gift Officer for Children’s Medical Center Foundation. “When Park Place approached us with this opportunity, we talked to our Child Life Specialists, who get to know our patients very well and knew Cory has a love for cars.”
Everyone was careful not to promise a ride until it was confirmed Cory’s oxygen apparatus, which is about the size of a carry-on bag on wheels, would fit inside the passenger cabin of the two-seater performance car.
“Cory was born with a congenital heart defect,” explained Cory’s mother Penny. “Over the years, he’s had many procedures, but he’s outgrown all the repairs that have been made. Last August, Cory was admitted to Children’s Health with heart failure. There’s no further surgery or anything else that can be done for him. We’re just taking it one day at a time and trying to have as much quality time with Cory as possible.”
Like Launching a Rocket
McLaren Dallas General Manager Heath Strayhan volunteered to be Cory’s driver. As Cory settled into the passenger seat, Strayhan gave him an insider’s tour of the supercar’s controls and features. Cory’s reaction of his thrilling ride in the McLaren 720S is priceless.
“It’s like launching a rocket.” he said, pointing to the “START” button.
Then, explaining the “C-S-T” selector knob, “C, for Comfort, where the suspension and handling is smooth and easy… S, Sport, tightens everything up to better grip the road… and T, Track, means hold on!”
After securing Cory’s oxygen container in the passenger’s floorboard, Strayhan told him to buckle up. Cory shot a quick glance at his mom that screamed, “STAT!” and flashed her the biggest smile.
Time for a Drive
Strayhan eased out of the parking lot with a distinctive McLaren growl. “When you’re driving fast, you want the car to be as predictable as possible,” he calmly told Cory, while turning tightly into sharp turns. “Smell that?” He asked, referencing the high-octane fuel coursing thru the engine. “That’s a beautiful smell. Feel that shift? BANG! Hear that rumble?”
While experiencing all the nuances of the 700-horsepower 720S’ performance, Cory could only respond with long, soft mutterings of “Yeah!” and “Wow!” and, “How do you turn the volume up?” After about a half-hour, Cory asked, “How fast will it go?”
“212 miles per hour,” answered Strayhan, who has spent countless hours driving McLarens on the track. “But I’ve never gone that fast.”
“I bet it’d be fun,” Cory replied with sheer wonderment.
Park Place Cares Continues
Over the past 30 years, Park Place has helped raise millions of dollars in contributions through grants, in-kind donations, event sponsorships, and unique experiences, working with more than 300 community organizations across DFW. Last year the luxury automotive group introduced Park Place Cares to represent their philanthropic efforts in the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education.
“Today, Cory got a special ride in a McLaren 720S,” said Anam Ali Hashambhai, Experiential Marketing Manager for Park Place Dealerships. “He got to experience the roar of the engine and the exhilaration of acceleration. For a little while, he got to just be a kid who loves cars, and not think about the challenges he faces every day.”
After the ride, Strayhan popped the McLaren’s bonnet to reveal gifts for Cory: Dallas Stars tickets, a McLaren ballcap, several LEGO sets (including a McLaren Senna,) as well as a scale model of a McLaren P1 Supercar.
“Park Place and Children’s Health have a long-standing relationship that makes opportunities like this possible,” concluded Strayhan. “McLaren Dallas and McLaren North America partnered to make this a one in a million experience. And I’m sure everyone involved got as much or more out of it as Cory.”
About Park Place
Founded in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn, Park Place operates 17 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, and Maserati. For more info, visit parkplace.com.
About Children’s Health SM
Children’s Health is the eighth-largest pediatric health care provider in the nation and the leading pediatric care system in North Texas, providing a full spectrum of health care services – from daily wellness and primary care to specialty visits and critical care. Holding eight disease-specific care certifications from The Joint Commission, Children’s Health has been consistently named of the nation’s top pediatric providers by U.S. News & World Report. The Children’s Health system includes Children’s Medical Center Dallas, as well as Children’s Medical Center Plano. Our Children’s House inpatient rehabilitation hospital, multiple specialty centers, rehabilitation facilities, physician services and the Children’s Medical Center Research Institute at UT Southwestern. For more information about Children’s Health, visit www.childrens.com.
