Sunnyvale-Based Baker’s Ribs Launches “Plates with Purpose” Initiative to Tackle Hunger Across North Texas
A beloved Sunnyvale-based barbecue restaurant is putting faith into action with the launch of a new community outreach initiative designed to help feed families in need.
Baker’s Ribs has officially rolled out “Plates with Purpose,” a donation-driven program rooted in generosity and the spirit of giving. Inspired in part by the biblical principle of tithing — giving back a portion to help others — the restaurant invites guests to join a mission to grow year after year and make a lasting impact where it’s needed most.
The need across North Texas is significant. According to Feeding America, more than 1 in 7 people in North Texas face food insecurity, including hundreds of thousands of children. In Dallas County alone, tens of thousands of families struggle to consistently access enough nutritious food, and many working households must choose between groceries, rent, utilities, or medical bills. Local food banks report continued high demand for assistance as grocery prices and living costs remain elevated.
The concept is simple: Add a plate. Feed a family. We’ll match it.
For every $10 donation plate purchased, Baker’s Ribs will match it with a meal served to a family in need through partnerships with local churches and nonprofit organizations. Every donation plate results in two meals shared in the community.
“When you purchase a Plates with Purpose donation plate, you enjoy your meal, and a family receives one too,” the campaign explains. “Every donation plate is matched.”
The initiative will serve families across Dallas, Garland, and Mesquite, reinforcing the restaurant’s commitment to helping neighbors one plate at a time.
Baker’s Ribs leadership says they are excited to finally roll out the project after months of planning.
“Our hope is that this grows year after year and really helps where needed,” Sara Gilbreath with Baker’s Ribs shared. “We appreciate the support and can’t wait to see this grow. Please share and help us get the word out.”
Customers can also place a donation order by calling the catering line at 972-203-8411.
At its core, Plates with Purpose reflects one simple belief: no family should go hungry. By combining great barbecue with a heart for service, Baker’s Ribs is turning everyday meals into meaningful ministry — and inviting the community to join in.
For more information, visit BakersRibs.com or stop by any location to participate.
Assembly House to Host Exclusive Penfolds Wine Dinner Featuring Global Ambassador DLynn Proctor
Assembly House is inviting guests to savor an elevated evening of fine dining and world-class wine with an exclusive five-course dinner showcasing the iconic wines of Penfolds, one of Australia’s most celebrated wineries.
Designed as a thoughtfully curated culinary experience, the multi-course menu has been crafted by Assembly House’s chefs to complement a selection of Penfolds’ renowned vintages. Each pairing highlights the depth, elegance, and heritage that have made Penfolds a global leader in winemaking for more than a century.
Guiding guests through the evening will be DLynn Proctor, Global Ambassador for Penfolds, whose engaging storytelling brings each wine to life. From vineyard terroir to meticulous craftsmanship, Proctor will offer insight into the history and character behind every pour, creating an immersive tasting experience for both seasoned collectors and curious enthusiasts.
The event begins with an exclusive meet-and-greet, offering guests an intimate opportunity to connect with Proctor and fellow attendees before sitting down for dinner. Set within the refined yet welcoming atmosphere of Assembly House, the evening is designed to be both elegant and approachable, blending exceptional hospitality with world-class wine education.
Owner Eric Woerner says the event is also a celebration of the community that has supported the restaurant since day one. “The Sunnyvale community and our surrounding neighbors have truly embraced Assembly House,” Woerner said. “This dinner is our way of giving back—by creating a new and exciting evening that brings people together over elegant food, great wine, and meaningful friendships.”
Adding to the excitement, guests will have the chance to participate in a special raffle featuring one bottle of each Penfolds wine served throughout the evening. The raffle culminates in a grand prize highly coveted by collectors: a bottle of Penfolds Grange, the winery’s flagship wine and one of the most iconic expressions in the world of fine wine.
This event is the first of many quarterly experiences that tie into the Assembly Wine Co.
Learn more about https://www.wineviewclubs.com/business/9bb90bc5-7690-4637-b3d6-1004b430ade7.
Event Details:
Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM
Location:
Assembly House, 129 N Collins Rd, Sunnyvale, TX 75182.
Price & Reservations:
Guests can reserve tickets and view pricing details: https://resy.com/cities/sunnyvale-tx-tx/venues/assembly-house/events/penfolds-wine-dinner-2026-02-03?date=2026-01-29&seats=2&event_url_slug=penfolds-wine-dinner-2026-02-03&maxPartySize=50
Limited Seating:
This exclusive dinner offers limited seating to ensure an intimate, memorable experience; early reservations are highly encouraged.
About the talent behind Assembly House:
John Sumner is the Culinary Director for Assembly House and The Athletic Club in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. He began his career at McCormick & Schmick’s, advancing to executive sous chef and building a strong foundation in seafood and fine dining. As Executive Chef at Jack Allen’s Kitchen in Austin, he embraced a farm-to-table philosophy centered on seasonal, Texas-sourced ingredients, gaining recognition through major events like ACL, Austin Food & Wine Festival, and a Rolling Stone documentary with Gary Clark Jr.
After moving to Dallas, Sumner opened Bulla Gastrobar as Executive Chef, focusing on Spanish techniques and bold flavors, before joining 8020 Hospitality to oversee culinary operations for major professional sports teams. He later partnered with Woerner to launch The Athletic Club and Assembly House, where he now leads a culinary program blending fine dining, sustainability, Spanish influence, and high-performance catering.
Jose Flores is the General Manager of Assembly House, bringing a lifelong passion for food and hospitality shaped by experience across high-volume restaurants, fine dining, hotels, and private events. He rose from server to Assistant General Manager at HG Supply Co., expanded his fine-dining and wine expertise at Harper’s Steakhouse and The Joule Hotel, and co-founded 219 Kitchen in 2021, a boutique catering company focused on intimate, upscale wine dinners. After serving as General Manager of Hospitality for The Athletic Club, Flores now leads Assembly House with a people-first approach, believing that great food and genuine care create unforgettable experiences.
Tom Thumb donates to SISD & Education Foundation
Staff Report - December 17, 2025 — Sunnyvale’s hometown grocery store, Tom Thumb, announced a three-year partnership with Sunnyvale ISD and a sponsor contribution of $45,000. Additionally, a check for $5,000 each to the Sunnyvale High School cheer squad and band were presented to Superintendent Matt Kimball and the Sunnyvale ISD Board of Trustees.
Tom Thumb also announced a $10,000 contribution to the Sunnyvale Education Foundation to support students and teachers in the district.