Living Magazine March 2021

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MARCH 2021 ARLINGTON/MANSFIELD GRAND PRAIRIE

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best of ARLINGTON & MANSFIELD READERS’ CHOICE

2017-2018, 2020

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contents | LIVING MAGAZINE MARCH 2021 | p r e p a r e

27 |

t o p D OCS

PROFILED 28 | DARIEN W. BRADFORD, MD 29 | UNITED DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES 30 | SANDI HAMM, DDS AND NICOLE GRANT, DMD 31 | SURGICAL ASSOCIATES OF MANSFIELD 32 | METHODIST ORTHOPAEDIC SURGICAL ASSOCIATES 33 | MANSFIELD COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER 34 | HAVARD HEART OF MANSFIELD

inside this issue

35 | INSTITUTE FOR HORMONAL BALANCE AND BIOTE

on the cover

36 | STEVEN W. THOMAS, DDS

22 I HILDEBRAND

37 | CITYVIEW AUDIOLOGY & HEARING AIDS, INC. 38 | MANSFIELD FAMILY DENTISTRY

PROFILED

39 | ACCENT ON YOU PLASTIC SURGERY AND MED SPA

72 I SECURITY NATIONAL MORTGAGE COMPANY

40 | ARLINGTON ORTHOPEDICS ASSOCIATION 41 | ATLAS VEIN CARE

features

42 | KOS/DANCHAK AUDOLOGY & HEARING AIDS 43 | ACCENT PODIATRY ASSOCIATES

52 M ODE R N M O US E

44 | AMY SCHOENING, DDS

45 | SKANDII MEDSPA 46 | COVENANT WOMEN'S HEALTH

A contemporary twist on a well worn classic

74 G E T M OV ING Preparing your home for a quick sale 76 P U P P Y P R E P

47 | BACK 2 WELLNESS 48 | IVFMD 49 | CGA WEIGHT LOSS AND SURGICAL SPECIALISTS

50 | CARE FERTILITY

Finding the right fit for your family

78 CLE AN I N G CO NCOCT IO NS

Keep things spotless with homemade solutions

80

GET AWAY GAME PLAN

Strategies for your summer vacation

86

in every issue 12

PUBLISHER'S LETTER

14

56 WELLNESS

SOCIAL CALENDAR

16

BEST BETS

60 AESTHETICS

18

TALK OF THE TOWN

64 HOMESTEAD

KEYS TO KIDNEY HEALTH

HAIR TODAY,

CITY SERENITY

PROCEDURE PLANNING

GONE TOMORROW

DIVE IN

20

LIVING PET CLUB

24

FRUIT OF THE VINE

82 ADVENTURE

90

LIVING LIKES

86 CUISINE

THE ART OF GLAMPING

PACK A PUNCH

A BETTER VIEW

march 2021

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letter from the publisher

publishing PUBLISHER Misty Daniels EDITOR Heather Witherspoon

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning.”

Lamentation 3:22-23

production GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Van Ngo, Jennifer Kelley CLIENT SERVICES MANAGERS Jenefer Grady administration

Wow, none of us saw that crazy weather coming last month, did we? Hope you all faired alright and that you’re back to normal life—well, as normal as anyone can expect right now. It was heartening to see the way neighbors reached out to neighbors and family members helped each other, get through the freezing days without power or heat. God is faithful to use all things for good to those who love Him and that’s certainly what He did, during out unexpected cold snap. His mercies are indeed new every morning.

Our taste of frigid weather makes the arrival of spring all the sweeter. Once again, God will work out His magnificent plan as trees begin to bud and flowers start to bloom. We’re seeing birds we only see this time of year, as they work their way back north, and the first butterflies are beginning their annual reconnaissance for nectar. As the earth wakes up and God orchestrates the next season, remember to count the moments not the minutes in your days.

contribution EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Landry, Anna Charles, LaRue Novick, Meredith Knight PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS Lauren Medean, Diana Raines community magazine group NORTH TEXAS MARKETS Arlington/Mansfield/Grand Prairie Rockwall/Rowlett/Heath/Forney Frisco/Plano McKinney/Allen/Fairview

SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR Todd Collom, Don Beene OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Teresa May advertising/marketing/sales VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Scott Daniels sdaniels@livingmagazine.net ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Kami Anderson, kanderson@livingmagazine.net

Prosper/Celina Southlake/Westlake/Trophy Club/ Colleyville/Grapevine Coppell/North Irving Keller/North Richland Hills N. Richardson/Murphy/Sachse/Wylie Flower Mound/Highland Village/Argyle SOUTH TEXAS MARKETS The Woodlands/Shenandoah/Magnolia Cy-Fair Fort Bend Katy / Fulshear Memorial

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Lindsay Clark, lclark@livingmagazine.net

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PUBLISHING PARTNERS Arlington, TX 76016 682-556-1246 • Fax: 817-572-3232 For advertising/distribution information call 682-556-1246.

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Living Magazine is published monthly. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Living Magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher.

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letters from

O U R M AYO R S mayor

MICHAEL EVANS

The City of Mansfield is enthusiastically anticipating the coming of spring, as the season represents a time of renewal.

One year ago our world changed and COVID-19 became a household word. It was as if life stopped and for millions of people worldwide, life literally stopped. Now we as a community are beginning the recovery from a winter storm that left many of our neighbors without power for days.

We dare to hope for better days for both of these crises. Vaccines have been developed, demonstrating what can be done when the collective minds of humanity work together to eradicate a catastrophic pandemic. We are coming together to address the needs of those impact by the winter storm with

mayor

www.mansfieldtxresponds.org, raising funds for support and gathering volunteers.

Now we are called upon to work together as a city, state and country. We have learned that when community partners work together, lives are saved. It is the joint effort to bring about healing and restoration to the masses that provides the people of Mansfield with the hope needed in this new season. We believe with all sincerity that there are better days ahead for all of us.

Sincerely,

RON JENSEN

On the May 1 ballot, the city of Grand Prairie will ask voters to consider a $75 million bond proposal for economic development. The city would use the money to support economic development, with projects like: • Historic downtown revitalization –land purchases, mixed use development and infrastructure.

• Targeted growth –land and/or building purchases, a conference hotel, restaurant lease space and entertainment sites.

• City gateways –land purchases or development of entertainment venues and infrastructure/parking for hospi¬tality, retail, mixed use and commercial.

Geneeral Obligation (GO) Bonds are commonly used to finance projects that cost more than available cash, much like home loans, and require

mayor

MA NS FI ELD

JEFF WILLIAMS

There’s a light at the end of the COVID tunnel and it’s getting brighter every day. By the time you read this, hundreds of Arlington citizens will have already received their COVID vaccination. Special thanks goes out to the Arlington Fire Department for operating COVID-19 vaccine sites with organization and efficiency. The City of Arlington, working in cooperation with Tarrant County Public Health, is continually working to make the public vaccination process run as smoothly as possible. Visit TarrantCounty.com to see if you’re eligible and to register to receive your vaccine.

Throughout the pandemic, The City of Arlington has found numerous ways to keep residents safely connected using innovative technology, such as video conferencing, social media, and other platforms helping residents participate in community and public meetings, city

GRA ND PRAI RI E voter approval.

This is not a sales tax. The bond issue is not expected to affect the property tax rate. Should the economy decline, bond debt would still be due and the city might have to cut services, reduce its existing capital project program or consider a property tax rate increase to cover debt payments.

While increases in valuations result in additional property tax owed, the City of Grand Prairie property tax rate has not increased in the past 29 years. The last increase was in 1992. The property tax rate was reduced in 1997 and 2000.

I encourage you to vote May 1. More information may be found at gptx.org/bondelection.

Live Life Grand,

A RLINGTON programs, and services from the safety of their homes.

That has included Arlington’s first-ever virtual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “Advancing the Dream” celebration, the Arlington municipal court’s new online virtual court services, which allows residents to ask questions and handle violations without appearing in person, smartphone donation capability for the Arlington Animal Services, and much more. Additionally, the city’s office of communication was awarded a Lone Star Regional Emmy for its video explaining the FY2020 operating budget to residents and community stakeholders. All these firsts are a result of the Arlington city council making “Put Technology to Work” one of its five annual priorities. Great work!

Thank you for keeping our organization, residents, visitors, and businesses connected but safe, during this challenging time.

community | SOCIAL CALENDAR

march

15-19

SPRING BREAK CAMP

A r l i n g to n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

This is a great way to spend Spring Break. Come join us for a week full of fun games and activities.

Please bring a sack lunch and we will provide the afternoon snack. Pre-registration required. Ages 5-12 years. Online enrollment is available at most centers. Prices vary. Cliff Nelson Rec Center, Elzie Odom Rec Center, The Beacon Rec Center, East Rec Center. Visit our website for information and registration.

N AT U R A L LY F U N . O R G

MARCH 1

DIY SPRINKLER REPAIRS, VIRTUAL A r l i n g to n Wa te r U t i l i t i e s

E V E N T B R I T E . C O M / E / D I Y- H O M E - P L U M B I N G R E PA I R - R E G I ST R AT I O N - 1 3 3 1 6 249 1 5 97 MARCH 12 - 21

If you haven’t checked out your sprinkler system lately, there are probably some issues that are easily fixed. Show your sprinkler system some love! Walk through common breaks and sources of inefficiency, then learn how to fix them all with minimal tools and time. 6pm-7pm. To sign up visit site.

E V E N T B R I T E . C O M / E / D I Y- S P R I N K L E R R E PA I R - R E G I ST R AT I O N - 1 3 3 0 4 3 5 1 3 73 1

SPRING BREAK Six Flags

Come and hang out with your friends and celebrate Spring Break! Rides, shows, live local band performances, Six Flags Karaoke, Spring Break Lip Sync Challenge.

SIXFLAGS.COM MARCH 13

MARCH 6-7

CUPCAKE WARS

THE AMERICAN RODEO

A r l i n g to n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

A r l i n g to n

Come out to the rodeo for some fun! AT&T Stadium. Safe stadium guidelines to prevent the spread of Covid-19 will be enforced. For complete schedule visit our website.

AMERICANRODEO.COM

N AT U R A L LY F U N . O R G

MARCH 8

HOME PLUMBING REPAIRS, VIRTUAL A r l i n g to n Wa te r U t i l i t i e s

Looking for ways to save money on your water bill and use water more efficiently? Finding and fixing water leaks around your home is a great place to start. We’ll celebrate the EPA’s Fix a Leak Week with demonstrations of easy fixes for household leaks. 6pm-7pm. To register visit site.

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Come bake up some delicious cupcakes and use your imagination and creativity to decorate the best looking dessert and create an award winning cupcake! All food and cooking supplies will be provided. Cost is $10. Ages 5-12. 10am-Noon. Cliff Nelson Rec Center. To register visit our website

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MARCH 13 AND 27

MOBILE PET ADOPTION EVENT A r l i n g to n

Adorable adoptable pets looking for new homes will be available at the mobile adoption unit for immediate adoption! Visit with adoptable cats available inside PetSmart!

Adoptions will be at the Petsmart® in South Arlington, 203 E. I-20 (Arlington Highlands) 10:30am-3:30pm. Scheduled events are

subject to cancellation without notice due to weather conditions (heat, cold, storms, etc.) for the safety and protection of adoptable pets, volunteers, and staff.

MARCH 20 - 21

FAMILY CITY CAMPOUT M a n sf i e l d

Let’s go camping! Bring your family to a community-wide campout. Includes a space to pitch your tent, guided nature walks, nocturnal animal lessons, dinner and an interactive scavenger hunt. 5pm-8am.

McClendon Park West, 799 W. Broad St. Preregistration required for all ages, including parents. Cost is child- 2-12Y: $12/$14.--adult13Y+: $15/$17.

M A N S F I E L DT E X A S . G O V / C A L E N D A R . A S PX MARCH 27

MARIO KART 8 DELUXE TOURNAMENT

A r l i n g to n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

We are excited to offer our first ever tournament! This event is open to all skill levels, come check it out! Pre-registration is required. Bring your own controller or borrow one from us. $15 entry fee. Double elimination format. The winner will receive a copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, an eSports Championship trophy, and bragging rights!

9am. The Beacon Rec Center, 1100 Mansfield Webb Rd. A N C . A P M . A CT I V E C O M M U N I T I E S . C O M / A R L I N GTO N PA R KS / A CT I V I T Y / S E A R C H / D E TA I L / 1 61 1 4

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our picks | BEST BETS

PRE M I E R IN G IN M AR C H

THIS M ONTH IN M OVIE HISTORY

MARCH 12 // YES DAY

MARCH 9, 1984 // SPLASH

NETFLIX

TOM HANKS, DARYL HANNAH, JOHN CANDY DIR. RON HOWARD (A BEAUTIFUL MIND)

Parents have the unfortunate job of saying no quite often, but what if they decided to say yes to their kids’ requests for an entire day. Jennifer Garner and Edgar Ramirez find out in the Netflix comedy based on the children’s book of the same name.

Before he was toying around as Woody, getting mail with Meg Ryan, or make believing as Mister Rogers, Tom Hanks splashed about in his first movie about falling in love with a mermaid. The romantic comedy is now available on Disney+ and has been edited to a more family-friendly version.

For an extra bit of fun, check out Josh Gadd’s “Reunited Apart” video with the cast at youtu. be/MbFIgQoHSJM.

TH I S M O N T H ’ S M U S IC

W H AT TO REA D

MARCH 2 // SIMPLY JULIA: 110 EASY RECIPES FOR HEALTHY COMFORT FOOD

BY JULIA TURSHEN

MARCH 19 // LORETTA LYNN STILL WOMAN ENOUGH

MARCH 5 // PAUL LEWIS/ STEVEN OSBORNE FRENCH DUETS

MARCH 12 // THE BRAND NEW HEAVIES

MARCH 26 // TAME IMPALA INNERSPEAKER (10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY EDITION)

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

In Simply Julia, readers will find 110 foolproof recipes for more nutritious takes on the simple, comforting meals Julia cooks most often. With practical chapters such as weeknight go-to’s, make-ahead mains, vegan one-pot meals, chicken recipes, easy baked goods, and more, Simply Julia provides endlessly satisfying options comprised of accessible and affordable ingredients.

In addition to her tried-and-true recipes, readers will find Julia’s signature elements — her “Seven Lists” (Seven Things I Learned From Being a Private Chef that Make Home Cooking Easier; Seven Ways to Use Leftover Buttermilk; Seven Ways to Use Leftover Egg Whites or Egg Yolks), menu suggestions, and helpful adaptations for dietary needs, along with personal essays and photos and gorgeous food photography.

SHIBUYA 357 – LIVE IN TOKYO

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Beloved New York Times bestselling cookbook author Julia Turshen returns with her first collection of recipes featuring a healthier take on the simple, satisfying comfort food for which she’s known.

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march 2021

Imagery from Yes Day (2021), Netflix. Movie image from Splash (1984), Touchstone Pictures. Book cover from Simply Julia

by Julia Turshen (2021), Harper Collins, with description excerpt from the publisher. Album covers and all other materials are presented for non-commercial illustrative purposes.

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community | TALK OF THE TOWN

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MEDEAN

PASTRIES, COFFEE, AND A FATHER’S LOVE Grounds and Gold Community Coffee House

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

W

HO IN T HEIR RIGH T MIND S TA R T S A BU SINE S S IN THE MIDDLE OF A PANDEMIC? That’s what Maurice Ahern wondered, as he opened the doors to his community coffee house, bakery, and event venue in Arlington. But God’s ways are not our ways and, when the plan is His, the rest is just background noise.

Maurice’s journey began with a passion—and aptitude—for baking. His kids, including his son, Micah, loved helping him craft his desserts at home and were more than happy to enjoy the result. But it was a hobby for Maurice, not a career path.

Then, the family had the rug pulled out from under them when Micah was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. The cancer quickly spread to his little bones and the next six years were a blur of hospitals, chemo, radiation, transplants, and a sweet, little boy who stole the hearts of everyone he met. At the age of seven, when his biggest concern should have been loose teeth and skinned knees, Micah earned his wings and Maurice was left to wonder what was next.

4130 South Bowen Road Arlington, Texas (682) 252-4633 GroundsandGold.com

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Having moved back to the states, during Micah’s treatment, and landing in Texas, Maurice was soon also contending with a layoff at work. “My life basically fell apart,” he said. “I just wanted my child’s legacy to live on. I wanted others to see his smile and remember him and I thought I could do that through pastries.” Maurice started a baking business in the kitchen of his apartment. It rapidly grew and soon he’d ramped up production utilizing the kitchen at his church. That space quickly got too small, too, and it was time to make the leap to a brick and mortar business.

God blessed his efforts at Gold Ribbon Confections, and

ARLINGTON / MANSFIELD / GRAND PRAIRIE

six short months later, he once again needed to expand to keep up with overwhelming demand.

Meanwhile, Maurice’s brother-in-law, Jimmy Kinley, was exploring ways to scratch his own entrepreneurial itch and a coffee house seemed one way to do it. He talked to Maurice about combining his booming baking business with his vision of a community coffee house and event venue.

“It was obvious Maurice had the skillset and the passion to make it work,” Jimmy said. “When you have the ‘why’ of what you’re doing, it’s easy to plow through any obstacle.”

Jimmy’s mom, Jennifer, was soon onboard and things started to fall into place. “Money was never our goal,” Jimmy said. “So many people were impactful when Micah was sick. Maurice wanted to ‘pay it forward’ to others and Mom and I wanted to join him.”

With the support and encouragement of their family, the three began looking for a space large enough for people to gather and build community and for the business to generate revenue to help other little heroes like Micah fighting childhood cancer. Looking back now, they can see the fingerprints of God on the open doors—and the closed ones. “A lot of doors closed in directions we thought we were supposed to take,” Jennifer said. “But when the time was right, so many people jumped onboard to help us. As overwhelming as this project has been—as big a financial leap as it was for us—we never once questioned it.”

The three began work on transforming their new space on South Bowen Road only to meet one delay after another. “When the pandemic hit, we’d been feeling such pressure to open but getting pushed back by delays,” Jimmy said. “Then with the shutdown, we suddenly had time to slow down and consider every aspect of the space. It was a blessing.

Grounds and Gold wouldn’t be everything it is, if we hadn’t had that gift of time to step back and really plan every detail.”

As the space was coming together, the family took to scrawling scripture on the unfinished back wall. Soon, contractors and others—as many as 40 people—has added their own encouragement through scripture.

The mayor even contributed. Those scriptures are covered with paint now, but the owners and staff know they’re under there.

“I was raised with faith,” Maurice said. “But I never really learned it, until I learned it from Micah. What is opening a new business in the middle of a pandemic compared to six years with cancer. Whenever we had a rough day, I could hear Micah saying, ‘Never give up’ which was his motto, all those years. There were so many decisions to be made but we had an amazing support group.”

Grounds and Gold is bustling now serving up gourmet coffee, Gold Ribbon Confections’ baked goods, and delicious soups and other fare made from scratch on site each day. And a portion of all sales goes towards local and national charities supporting childhood cancer. “We all love being together and love working together,” Jennifer said. “And we love that we’re doing it in Micah’s memory.”

“G&G is about building and fostering community and sharing Micah with others,” Maurice said.

This year more than 10,000 children in the US will be diagnosed with cancer. It’s the second leading cause of childhood death. Yet of all national funding for cancer, childhood cancer only receives 4%. Grounds & Gold is doing their part to support research, family outreach, and treatment for families living with childhood cancer. And they’re doing it all in the name of one unforgettable seven-year-old boy.

march 2021

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our picks | PET CLUB

PET CLUB FEATURED PETS

this month

Cami // Jerry H.

Cami is a two-year-old English Spot bunny. He lives completely free to roam indoors, knows 25 tricks on command, and is learning more. He hopes to get a world record someday. He loves sharing his tricks and bunny life with his Instagram audience, where he currently has 13K followers. Check out Cami’s videos and photos on Instagram at @CAMITHEBUNNY

Tron // Elizabeth R.

Chloe & Bianca // Jennifer D.

Piper // Clara K.

Cami // Jerry H.

Aspen // Fabiola M.

PET CLUB MEMBERS To join the club, visit LivingMagazine.net/pet-club.

Send your pet’s name, your name, your address, and a clear photo of your pet. They might just turn up in a future issue of Living!

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Moses // Mandi R.

Coraline & Gibbons // Laura C.

Three Dog Bakery opened the world’s first bakery for dogs in 1989 and has been making tails wag ever since! We’re excited to share the same over-the-top experience with you in Mansfield. Bring your dogs and come see what all the fuss is about!

NORTH ARLINGTON 817 E. Lamar Blvd.

817-795-3135 MANSFIELD 3300 E. Broad Street Ste 142 817-592-3531

ThreeDog.com Follow us:

MARCH right in to Three Dog Bakery and get us some yummy treats please!!!

Visit us at our Arlington location or our new Mansfield location for some awesome treats. Your humans are welcome!!

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ON THE COVER

B Y M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO S B Y L I V I N G M A G A Z I N E

LESSONS LEARNED AND LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS Dr. Jed Hildebrand reflects on his experience on season 5 of the hit TV Show Survivor

Jed Hildebrand’s dental school summer break was a bit different than his fellow classmates.

His included a whirlwind of TV talk shows and radio interviews lasting throughout the fall, after being a contestant on CBS’s hit TV show, Survivor. Set on an island in Thailand, Season 5 included monsoons and zero food available for contestants. Although this once-in-a-lifetime adventure was harder than expected, Dr. Jed considers the lessons he learned and the fortitude he developed—during the show and an Arlington small business owner winning best Orthodontist multiple times.

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“Not only is the adventure of being on the show irreplaceable,” he said. “It led to opportunities to share my story with others and teach lessons about being true to yourself and never compromising. Survivor opened doors to let me help communities and charities in need through weekend fund raisers that became a stepping stone to be able to share my testimony in Sunday schools throughout DFW.” Jed stays in touch with some of his show contestants through charity work. “The show was an adventure but sharing the stories from the show with fans and friends has been the real joy of the experience”.

Among the lessons Dr. Hildebrand shares is “Treat everyone in your life like the most important person and they’ll be your biggest supporter for life”. He’s still a big fan of the show and enjoys it now with his wife, dentist Kim Hildebrand, and their kids, Kai, and Liv. “Survivor is about people and relationships and facing challenges,” he said. “I feel blessed to be put in a position like this and do not take it for granted to help serve others through this experience. I love being an example to kids everywhere that dreams can come true.”

And where is he now? He’s at the top of his game with a thriving orthodontic practice and a growing family. Known as the cool place to get a beautiful smile, Hildebrand Orthodontics has garnered numerous Best Orthodontist awards.

With its surfer-style beach murals, open floor plan drenched in natural light, and kid-friendly staff, it’s also a great place for adult Invisalign.

Dr. H keeps the orthodontic experience fun and highly individualized through digital teeth scans and virtual treatment planning for optimum results. His staff respects your time with a “no wait” policy to get you back to school or work quickly. “Parents are encouraged to come back to the treatment area to see how their child’s treatment is going and receive updates,” Dr. Jed said. “Many of them are so pleased with their kids’ results they decide to get braces themselves. Achieving a beautiful smile in a short amount of time is the best present I can give my wonderful patients.”

CLEAR INVISALIGN ALIGNERS FOR ALL AGES Although Dr. Hildebrand recommends seeing children for a free evaluation at age seven, many of his patients are adults who either never had braces or have some minor shifting they’d like corrected. As a leader in the industry, Dr. Hildebrand has excelled in the new technology to straighten teeth faster and simpler than ever before. “You can discretely straighten your teeth—often in about a year— and nobody has to know you’re in treatment,” he said.

With a digital scan before you even start, Dr. Hildebrand can show you what your smile will look like after treatment. Dr. Jed offers indi-

vidualized treatment plans for best outcomes and stable results at affordable family prices.

They’ll work with your insurance and even provide low down payments and in-house payment plans, so cost isn’t an obstacle to achieving a beautiful smile. “Invisalign can treat a wide range of teeth-straightening conditions, including crossbites, crowding, open bites, gapped teeth, overbites, and underbites,” he said. “You can take them out to eat or for special occasions and, because they’re clear, most people won’t even know you’re wearing them.”

KNOW-YOU-BY-NAME CARE Dr. Hildebrand and his staff not only knows each patient by name, but they’ve also been a strong influence in the community for 25 years. Dr. Hildebrand sees every patient at every visit, something patients don’t experience at bigbox dental offices. As a solo practitioner, Dr. Jed provides care throughout your treatment.

“Continuity of care is the key to successful orthodontics,” he said. He strives to be a strong small business leader providing jobs to many families and keeping employees and patients safe throughout this pandemic. “Arlington is a big city with the heart of a small town,” he said. “Our goal is to treat a small number of patients, but to treat them well and to give our employees a good quality of life.”

LATEST ORTHODONTIC SCIENCE Dr. Hildebrand and his stellar team offer the latest, cutting-edge technology, including high-tech flexible wires which respond to the temperature of the mouth to straighten teeth faster than ever before and with far less discomfort to patients. “No more tightening of braces and no more bands on back teeth,” Dr. Hildebrand said. “That means far less risk of cavities. We’re also using the new mini braces, the smallest braces on the market, that decrease treatment time by six months.”

MEET DR. H Dr. Hildebrand looks forward to a time when it’s safe to return to Christian dental missionary work in which he’s engaged in the past in Mexico, Cambodia, India, and Thailand. With his love of extreme sports, he can often be found skiing, skydiving, or surfing on a lake and ready to face all the challenges that stand in his way of becoming a successful orthodontist. In addition to Survivor, he’s appeared on numerous TV shows, including MTV’s TRL, The Carolyn Rhea Show, CBS’ The Early Show, Entertainment Tonight, Extra, E!, Inside Edition, and The Ticket talk radio show. But his best days are spent doing absolutely anything with Kim, Kai, and Liv, his biggest fans.

“Treat everyone in your life like the most important person and they’ll be your biggest supporter for life”. He’s still a big fan of the show and enjoys it now with his wife, dentist Kim Hildebrand, and their kids, Kai, and Liv. “Survivor is about people and relationships and facing challenges,” he said.

“I loved the doors it opened and who I was able to become through the show’s influence.

I love being an example to kids everywhere that dreams can come true.”

Texas Monthly Super Dentist 2008-2021 Top Dentist Award 2008-2021 Mansfield Living Magazine BEST Orthodontist D Magazine Best Orthodontist Past President of Arlington Dental Study Club

CONTACT: 2200 Interstate 20 W Suite 100 Arlington, Texas 76017 (817) 468-4141

HILDEBRANDORTHO.COM

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community | FRUIT OF THE VINE

PORTRAIT © WIFF HARMER PHOTOGRAPHY

Elisabeth Hasselbeck CHASING AFTER GOD

Former television broadcaster Elisabeth Hasselbeck spent more than a decade telling stories from different perspectives as a co-host on ABC’s The View, and later as an anchor at Fox & Friends. But after a few years at Fox, Elisabeth felt pulled in a new direction, as scary as it seemed. She gives a behind-the-scenes look at the tough decision to leave her broadcasting career, and how she learned to wait for God’s guidance as He continued to reveal her unique purpose as a storyteller in the world.

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this gentle, generous gift of a Friend early in the morning, and it always seemed to be just right.

“I’m so thankful for Jesus Calling .”

God was like, “No, I’m not asking you to have it all, and hold it all, and do it all. I’m really not.”

Left: Whoopi Goldberg, Abby Huntsman, Joy Behar, Elisabeth, Meghan McCain, Sunny Hostin

BY E L I S A B E T H H A S S E LBECK

I WAS A TELEVISION BROADCASTER for almost 15 years.

I’ve had the blessing of interviewing every living president but one, along with extra-ordinary people who have done wildly successful things. Those conversations were always instructive moments for me, to see the personal side of someone who’s had such progress in life.

If you’ve ever studied broadcasting or watched something on TV, you know that the interviewer’s job is to get behind the lens of the person telling this story. If you get the blessing to look at someone’s story and tell it, man, that’s awesome. But to do it well, you have to really get behind their lens, because we all see things differently.

I thought, I’m not the mom I want to be. I’m not the wife I want to be right now. I give up. And I thought that was enough. I literally thought that giving up on that job of broadcasting dreams was enough to bring my heart where it needed to be, but it wasn’t. It required giving it over.

I don’t think that I could have gotten through that season without just the daily, on my knees, in the dark, with the light of my phone or flashlight on Jesus Calling. It was a huge gift to me.

I felt so carried in the Holy Spirit on that day that I said goodbye to my team at Fox. That very day of admitting, “I can’t do this anymore,” was a day where I felt so much of His love and power and permission to glorify Him in that process. It just allowed me to fully prepare for what the next day held.

This article was originally published in Jesus Calling Magazine Winter 2021 Issue. Used by permission of Thomas Nelson Publishers.

“Everyone has a story.”

I was writing my book Point of View, and I wasn’t really sure that my story had a value. I had this day where God was like, “Listen, if I created you, and if I have a story in you, would you ever tell someone sitting across from you that their story had no value or worth? And that My work in their heart wasn’t as important as somebody else’s or unique?”

Everyone has a story. Write down where you’ve been and where you’ve seen God in it, because He’s there. He just wants you to see it.

I love being part of the team, so I will do anything to not let the team down. That’s kind of how I operate.

Elisabeth and husband Tim Hasselbeck

I believe that God met me at Fox & Friends, but I also believe that I kind of went ahead of His blessing and sought it out for myself. I was working so hard to not let anybody down and to do the job so well that I was over exhausting myself, because I didn’t feel like I should be there. It brought me to my knees in a new way, and it brought me to prayer in a new way.

I was literally on my knees with Jesus Calling every morning, just trying to get my mind right. I’d say, “Fill up on the Good News before the hard news.”

He showed up for me in a way that was awesome. What He allowed for me in that time was the daily habit of being on my knees in the Word of God and Jesus Calling to get me through a season that started with me going ahead of His instructions. I’m so thankful for Jesus Calling. It was just

The paperback edition of Elisabeth’s memoir Point of View, along with her children’s book Flashlight Night: An Adventure in Trusting God, are available in stores now.

Adapted for print from Elisabeth’s interview on the Jesus Calling Podcast. Put your phone in Camera mode and hover over this code to hear more of Elisabeth’s story!

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If you would like to receive a free copy of the daily devotional Jesus Calling, contact Living Magazine at tladd@livingmagazine.net.

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DARIEN W. BRADFORD, MD Dr. Darien Bradford has endeared himself to thousands of patients and their families with his prowess in minimally invasive thoracic surgery. Many are so grateful they take to the internet leaving 5-star reviews and evaluations like this one, “Dr. Bradford saved my father’s life!

My dad needed emergency heart surgery and my entire family was terrified.

Dr. Bradford came in and introduced himself. He was very pleasant and didn't speak over our heads like most doctors do. He was patient and answered all our questions. He even allowed my dad to pray over his hands. As a man of faith that was very important to my dad. He came to see him multiple times after the surgery just to check on him and followed up with him twice, after he was discharged from the hospital. Without God and Mr. Bradford, I don't know if he’d be alive today.”

One patient was so frustrated, after seeing multiple doctors without a diagnosis, she was ready to give up. She wrote, “I went to Dr. Bradford. At that first appointment he said that he could help me. I had Thorax Outlet Syndrome and when he did the surgery, I experienced instant relief. His love for his patients goes beyond anything I could have hoped for. He’s an amazing doctor and person.”

The rave reviews go on.

Board certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, Dr. Bradford is a cardiothoracic surgeon trained to diagnose and treat diseases of the chest, esophagus, diaphragm, heart, lungs, and trachea. With 30 years of experience and a bedside manner that puts his patients immediately at ease, Dr. Bradford is a leader in his field, pioneering minimally invasive thoracic surgery technique and technology such as video and robotic-assisted surgery of the chest, heart, lungs, esophagus, diaphragm, and trachea.

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BY ME RE D IT H KNI GH T

These less invasive procedures mean shorter recovery time, less risk of infection, negligible scarring, reduced recovery time, less blood, less pain, fewer complications, and far greater success.

He’s also responsible for introducing a new mechanical heart valve requiring less anticoagulation. Because each patient is unique, Dr. Bradford works closely with them and their physicians to tailor a treatment program designed specifically for each individual.

Dr. Bradford uses minimally invasive Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy (ENB) to access difficultto-reach areas of the lung, aiding in the diagnosis of lung disease and leading to earlier, personalized treatment, potentially saving lives.

LungGPS technology, used in the Medtronic superDimension navigation system, is a remarkable way to maximize the ENB procedures, a method of obtaining lung tissue biopsies from peripheral regions.

In fact, this superDimension navigation

system was nominated as “Best Medical Technology” by the Galien Foundation.

Dr. Bradford continues to lead the way with life-saving techniques, such as minimally invasive surgery for coronary artery disease, cancers of the lung, esophagus and chest wall, abnormalities of the great vessels and heart valves, as well as birth defects of the chest and heart.

Methodist Heart and Lung is owned and operated by MedHealth/ Methodist Medical Group and is staffed by independently practicing physicians who are employees of MedHealth/ Methodist Medical Group. The physicians and staff who provide services at these sites are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System or any of its affiliated hospitals.

CONTACT

252 Matlock Road, Suite 130 Mansfield, Texas (817) 465-5311 MethodistHeartandLung.com

UNITED DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES Jean ni n e H oa n g , M D

“When your body is healthy and balanced, it shows through healthy, radiant skin,” says Dr. Jeannine Hoang, one of Arlington’s most successful dermatologists. “My life’s work is devoted to preventive, proactive medicine, empowering my patients to care for their skin to prevent disease, cancer and aging.”

Dr. Hoang’s approach to personalized care grew out of her quest to find long-term solutions to skin problems. That led to other aspects of healthcare, fitness and nutrition. “I’m passionate about preventive medicine, anti-aging and maintaining health and function.”

To stop aging’s visible effects, Dr. Hoang specializes in subtle, noninvasive cosmetic treatments and minimally invasive cosmetic enhancements that provide the most natural looking results possible.

Specialties include: • HydraFacial, which cleanses, gently exfoliates, extracts, hydrates, protects and nourishes the skin for instant, long-lasting, visible results. It creates an instantly gratifying glow, restoring vibrant tone and texture.

• SplendorX, a new laser treatment offering powerful, fast and permanent hair removal.

• The Vampire Facelift, a non-surgical restoration of face shape, improving tone and texture, and rejuvenating new and younger tissue. It can also treat hair regrowth, erectile disfunction, sexual function and incontinence.

• NovaThreads, a new FDA-approved injectable treatment that can be performed over a lunch hour to lift, tighten, and define facial contours.

• Emsculpt®, the world’s only non-surgical, non-invasive treatment that simultaneously sculpts muscle and burns fat for both men and women, strengthening and toning abdominal muscles and arms, and toning the buttocks, thighs and calves.

• Visit unitedderm.com to learn more about these remarkable treatments.

N EW PH YS I CI A N SK I LLE D I N M O H S SU R G E RY In 2020, Dr. Ashish Arshanapalli joined the team, bringing remarkable expertise. Dr. Arshanapalli graduated at the top of his class at the Indiana University School of Medicine and completed his residency in Dermatology at Loyola University Medical Center, where he served as the chief resident.

He completed a Mohs micrographic surgery fellowship at the University of Wisconsin – the birthplace of Mohs surgery, considered the most effective technique for treating many basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, the two most common skin cancers.

internal medicine at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas and a residency in dermatology at the University of Louisville in Kentucky.

She opened her first office in Mansfield, she soon opened additional locations across DFW to meet growing demand. Dr. Hoang and her talented staff offer a full menu of medical and cosmetic services.

CONTACT

130 Regency Parkway Mansfield, Texas 76063 (817) 539-0959

While Dr. Arshanapalli’s primary focus is skin cancer surgery and reconstruction, he also enjoys general dermatology and cosmetics. He has been published in multiple medical journals regarding laser therapies for scar reduction.

723 North Fielder Road, Suite C Arlington, Texas 76012 (817) 539-0959

AB OU T D R. H OA N G

2560 Central Park Avenue, Suite 395 Flower Mound, Texas 75028 (469) 635-5990

Jeannine Hoang graduated summa cum laude from the University of Texas at Austin and earned her MD at Baylor College of Medicine. She completed an internship in

780 NE Alsbury, Suite B Burleson, Texas 76028 (817) 529-1753

UnitedDerm.com

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SANDI HAMM, DDS AND NICOLE GRANT, DMD As Dr. Sandi Hamm watched the Mansfield community grow, she also saw her dental practice flourish, thanks to enthusiastic patient word-of-mouth.

She realized she needed help meeting the demands of a thriving practice, but not just anyone would do. Her patients had grown accustomed to a dentist who takes time getting to know them, listens to their questions and concerns, and makes them an active part of their dental care.

How fortunate to find a likeminded practitioner in Dr. Nicole Grant. Born and raised in San Diego, Dr. Grant graduated Cum Laude from the UNLV School of Dental Medicine, she was inducted into the OKU Dental Honors Society, received the International College of Dentists Leadership Award, and the Psi Omega Scholastic Achievement award. Clearly, she was qualified, but Dr. Hamm was also thrilled to realize she shares her patientfirst philosophy and her commitment to continuing dental education.

“I have the utmost respect for Dr. Grant’s knowledge and experience,” Dr. Hamm said. “She has a knack for connecting with patients—of all ages—and putting them at ease. I’d trust her as my own family dentist and am thrilled to have her join me in caring for our patients.”

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T

device while they sleep,” Dr. Hamm said.

“It prevents their jaw from falling back when they sleep, allowing relaxation of the tissues at the back of the throat, and preventing the base of the tongue from collapsing and blocking the airway; this gives our patients a safe, soundless, satisfying night’s sleep.”

V I RTU AL S MI LE C O N SU LT

One of the aspects Dr. Hamm loves about the dental field, is her ability to perform life-changing procedures. “Everyone wants a smile they feel good about—no matter their age, gender, profession, or circumstances,” she said. “It is truly an exciting time to be practicing dentistry, when there’s so much we can do to make that a reality.”

Drs. Hamm and Grant can now offer patients interested in cosmetic dentistry a virtual smile consult. “Patients send us pictures of themselves and let us know how they would like to change their smile,” Dr. Hamm said. “We send them a personalized video giving them treatment options, a timeline and an estimate of what it would cost.”

HELP FOR SNORING AND S L EE P APNEA

Drs. Hamm and Grant are ready to handle everything from routine cleanings and check-ups to complex restorative and cosmetic dentistry—even complete smile makeovers. They would love to be part of your dental health story.

One exciting new offering is a sleep apnea appliance that is helping patients find relief from snoring and provides an alternative if they cannot wear a CPAP. “Our patients wear the custom-fitted

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SERVICES • • • • • • • • • • •

At-Home or in-Office Teeth Whitening Porcelain Veneers and Crowns Smile Makeovers White Fillings/Cosmetic Bonding Invisalign Clear Tooth Aligners Dental Implants Restorations Snoring Relief Periodontal Therapy CPAP Alternatives Help with Snoring and Sleep Apnea Smile Virtual Consults, WWW. SMILEVIRTUAL.COM/DR-SANDI-HAMM/SIGN

CONTACT

1830 East Broad Street, Suite 100 Mansfield, Texas 76063 (817) 477-4441 DrSandiHamm.com

SURGICAL ASSOCIATES OF MANSFIELD Gary K. Alexander, MD, FACS, CPE Joshua Trussell, MD, FACS, CPE Jeremy Parcells, MD, FACS Andrew Standerwick, MD, FACS Ivan Cruz Jr., MD The standard for Surgical Associates of Mansfield is excellence in everything they do. Drs. Alexander, Parcells, Trussell, Standerwick, and Cruz have performed thousands of successful surgeries restoring the quality of life to many of your DFW neighbors. Here’s a bit more about this dynamic team.

DR. ALEXANDER Surgical Associates of Mansfield was founded by Dr. Gary Alexander in 2007.

Dr. Alexander is a board certified general surgeon specializing in surgery of the gastrointestinal tract including heartburn/ reflux surgery, gallbladder surgery, and complex hernia surgery. He is a Certified Physician Executive and has previously served as chairman of the Methodist Mansfield department of surgery. He’s currently the trauma medical director for Mansfield’s level 3 Trauma Center. Dr. Alexander is also an assistant professor with the TCU School of Medicine. “Our mission has always been to treat people, not tests.

We understand having surgery or even considering an operation is stressful. Our goal is to walk you through it every step of the way,” said Dr. Alexander.

DR. PA RC ELLS Dr. Jeremy Parcells performs a wide range of procedures including hernia, gallbladder, anti-reflux, colorectal, bariatric surgery, and a full range of complex laparoscopic and robotic surgeries performed through a much smaller incision and resulting in shorter recovery times, less risk of infection, less scarring, and less pain for his patients. “Robotic surgery represents the next stage of growth and innovation, allowing us to perform operations we’re already performing laparoscopically—only better,” he said. “Every year we’re finding exciting new ways to advance the technology.”

DR. T RUSSEL L As a broad-based general surgeon, Dr. Joshua Trussell, who founded Mansfield

Methodist Minimally Invasive Surgery which merged with Surgical Associates of Mansfield in 2019 performs common procedures for conditions such as gallbladder disease, appendicitis, small bowel disorders, and soft tissue infections and masses. He repairs all types of hernias, including advanced abdominal wall reconstruction and repair for large loss of domain incisional hernias. He specializes in surgeries for colon cancer and skin malignancies, including melanoma and has experience in bariatric procedures, including laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. “It’s an exciting time to be involved in the advancement of minimally invasive surgery with easier recovery for our patients and more precision for us,” he said. “Our goal is always the least invasive option.”

“Obesity is the number one health concern in the US today impacting self-esteem, relationships, quality of life, and many obesity-related illnesses,” he said.

“For many it’s the beginning of a whole new—healthier, happier, longer—life.

D R . I VA N C R U Z JR .

Ivan Cruz, Jr., MD, is a board-certified general surgeon who has been serving patients since 2014. With a special interest in treating colon cancer, he also enjoys treating gallbladder issues, acute appendicitis, umbilical hernias, inguinal hernias, and hernias of the abdominal wall, and complications of peptic ulcer disease. He performs screening colonoscopies, upper GI endoscopies, and all common surgical procedures.

D R. STAND E R W I C K Dr. Andrew Standerwick performs a wide variety of procedures, focusing on those involving the abdomen and related organs. He has a special interest in hiatal hernias, inguinal hernias, anti-reflux surgery, and he has been trained in minimally invasive techniques that reduce pain and recovery time. Dr. Standerwick specializes in weight-loss surgeries, including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, and revision surgery.

Surgical Associates of Mansfield is owned and operated

by MedHealth/Methodist Medical Group and is staffed by independently practicing physicians who are employees of MedHealth/Methodist Medical Group. The physicians and staff who provide services at these sites are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System or any of its affiliated hospitals.

CONTACT

2975 East Broad Street, Suite 200 Mansfield, Texas 76063 (682) 518-8619 MansfieldSurgery.com

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METHODIST ORTHOPAEDIC SURGICAL ASSOCIATES Joh n R. H a r r i s , M D a n d Edward M . M a i r u ra , M D Josefina Ortiz’s life was on hold. Pain in her shoulder had her feeling hopeless. She couldn’t raise or move her arm, couldn’t drive, couldn’t dress herself, and couldn’t sleep at night. She tried physical therapy with little improvement. Then her PT referred her to Methodist Orthopaedic Surgical Associates. She underwent shoulder surgery on September 29th, a day she says she’ll never forget. By November, Josefina was completely independent again, feeling great, sleeping nights, and—the thing that brings the biggest smile to her face—able to play with her granddaughter again.

It’s patients like Josefina who have given Drs. John Harris and Edward Mairura their nickname—the Bone Docs. Their goal is to get patients and athletes—of all ages—back to living a full life as soon and safely as possible, returning them to their very best. And their patients couldn’t be more appreciative.

The two men found their calling to orthopaedic medicine differently. John Harris knew he wanted to practice medicine, to “help change people’s lives with new and exciting medical technology”. But it actually was an interest in woodworking, during his med school years, that sparks his interest in orthopaedics. “I fell in love with orthopaedics from the first case I saw that involved drills, screwdrivers, and tools just like the ones in my garage. It was fascinating, and I was hooked,” he said.

As for Edward Mairura, he first experienced orthopaedics while accompanying his uncle to Mayo Clinic for treatment for osteosarcoma of the pelvis. “I met his treating orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Michael Yaszemski, and was intrigued by his level of compassion for my family, knowledge, bedside manner, and communication skills,” Dr. Mairura said “Dr. Yaszemski offered me the opportunity to work in his lab performing research. I knew I

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BY ME RE D IT H KNI GH T

wanted to one day help people the way Dr. Yaszemski helped my uncle.”

While he is fellowship trained in sports and arthroscopy, Dr. Harris enjoys performing shoulder and knee replacements, fractures “from top to bottom” and especially knee and shoulder arthroscopy, and treating injuries such as ACL and meniscus tears, rotator cuff injuries and shoulder dislocations.

Dr. Mairura performs general orthopaedic surgery with a special interest in trauma, total knee replacements, anterior hip replacements, arthroscopic treatment of the knee, carpal tunnel, and trigger fingers.

“I love listening to my patients’ needs and providing them with the best evidencebased options that maximize non-surgical treatment, considering surgery only after exploring all other options.”

“We aim to show Christ’s love in all we do, and hopefully, help point patients back to God, to show His love and mercy in the tough times and give Him all the glory for the good outcomes,” Dr. Harris said.

Methodist Orthopaedic Surgical Associates • Adult Joint Reconstruction • S p o r ts M e d i c i n e a n d A t h l e t i c I n j u r i e s • S h o u l d e r a n d K n e e A r t h ro s c o p i c S u rg e r y • Tra u m a • Fo o t a n d A n k l e S u rg e r y • S u rg e r y of t h e S h o u l d e r a n d U p p e r E x t re m i t y • Fra c t u re a n d S of t T i s s u e I n j u r y Tre a t m e n t Methodist Orthopaedic Surgical Associates is owned and operated by MedHealth/Methodist Medical Group and is staffed by independently practicing physicians who are employees of MedHealth/Methodist Medical Group. The physicians and staff who provide services at these sites are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System or any of its affiliated hospitals.

CONTACT

2975 East Broad, Suite 200 Mansfield, Texas 76063 (817) 453-3500 MethodistBoneDocs.com

MANSFIELD COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER Mic h ael L. T h orn ton , DO FACOS

Most of us have a few things we’d like to change about our appearance. Whether it’s improving on what nature gave us or simply turning back the hands of time, it’s important to partner with a cosmetic surgeon who’s highly trained, board-certified, and experienced in the type of procedure we’re considering.

Since 2008, Dr. Michael L. Thornton at Mansfield Cosmetic Surgery Center has offered hundreds of patient excellences in: • Face Lift and Neck Lift, Brow Lift, Blepharoplasty, Facial Fat Grafting, Lip Implant • Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift & Reduction, Breast Implant Revision & Removal • Mommy Makeover, Abdominoplasty, VASER Liposuction, Diastasis Repair • Brazilian Butt Lift & Buttock Contouring • After Weight Loss Skin Removal Surgery, Body Lift, Brachioplasty • Gynecomastia & Cosmetic Surgery for Men • Aesthetic Medical Spa, Botox® & Dermal Fillers, Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing • Warm Sculpting with SculpSure® Non-invasive Laser Body Contouring Fellowship-trained and double board-certified Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr. Michael L. Thornton is a Diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and for over a decade, his patients have traveled from around Texas and even out of state to seek his expertise. Soft spoken, passionate about his work, and devoted to his patients, Dr. Thornton’s appreciation for surgical artistry is central for his approach to cosmetic surgery. A hallmark of his practice is taking time, getting to know his patients, and tailoring care to each patient’s desires and expectations.

Dr. Thornton has performed an array of successful facial plastic surgeries, breast

augmentations, breast lifts and reductions, VASER liposuction, mommy makeover abdominoplasty, gynecomastia surgery for men, buttock contouring, and non-surgical aesthetic skin rejuvenation procedures in his medical spa. Dr. Thornton has also had great success performing revision cosmetic surgery on patients who have experienced unsatisfactory results elsewhere.

tends national meetings and participates in advanced cosmetic surgery courses to offer his patients the latest techniques.

With close to 15 years of combined surgical training and operative experience, Dr. Thornton is consistently recognized as a Living Magazine “Top Doc” in the specialty of Cosmetic Surgery and, since 2016, has been voted “Best Cosmetic Surgeon” in Living Magazine in Arlington & Mansfield.

A Frisco, Texas native, Dr. Thornton received his undergraduate degree from Baylor University and his medical degree from UNT Health Science Center in Fort Worth. He completed a comprehensive five-year residency in general surgery and fellowship training in surgical critical care and trauma surgery from the internationally recognized R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore.

When not on the job, Dr. Thornton enjoys spending time with his wife, Raquel, who also works in his office as his director of marketing and patient experience.

Visit MansfieldCosmeticSurgery.com to browse his gallery of stunning before and after photos or to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Following his artistic and creative passion, Dr. Thornton completed a dedicated 12-month fellowship in cosmetic surgery accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery focusing on all aspects of cosmetic surgery. He routinely at-

CONTACT

550 North Walnut Creek Drive, Suite 120 Mansfield, Texas 76063 (817) 477-9000 MansfieldCosmeticSurgery.com

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HAVARD HEART OF MANSFIELD Steven P. H a va rd , M D

Over the 15 years Steven Havard has practiced cardiovascular medicine, the field of medicine has taken a dramatic shift away from treating patients only after they are sick and toward promoting peak health and wellness—before problems occur. Dr. Havard has led that movement. With an emphasis on patient education and empowerment, he partners with each patient to work proactively toward optimum quality of life.

He calls it The Havard Heart Difference.

“We strive to go above and beyond just the practice of medicine, to provide an experience for the patient they won’t find with other cardiologists.” That difference means seeking solutions for those who are suffering with heart and vascular disease and placing an emphasis on quality of life for everyone.

One patient attested in a five-star online review that The Havard Heart Difference saved his life. “Dr Havard is exceptionally knowledgeable as well as compassionate. He spends time with patients, explaining in great detail everything about one’s malady and what one can do and expect in treatment. He saved my life!”

Others attest that he’s interested in his patients, genuinely concerned, never rushed, and that it only takes one visit to feel confident in him as their cardiologist. One patient who admits to feeling high anxiety, any time he visits a doctor’s office reported, “He LISTENED to my health complaints and concerns and took the time to explain, educate me, and put me on the path to better health. I would and have recommended Dr. Havard to close friends and family members.”

Perhaps another patient said it best, “Heart disease is scary. (Dr. Havard) takes the fear away. He has an excellent demeanor and bedside manner, takes time to answer all my questions with

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great detail. I will never, ever consider another cardiologist.”

Dr. Havard received his medical degree from Chicago Medical School, completed his residency through Yale at Hospital of Saint Raphael, and a fellowship through Tufts University at Baystate Medical Center. Even in elementary school, he knew he wanted to be a doctor. “I spent my life working toward that goal,” he said. “Now I get to live out my dream every day.” A firm believer in giving back to his community, Dr. Havard volunteers his time to Linda Nix Center, a faith-based nonprofit clinic that provides medical services to uninsured adults.

VITALS IS THE LARGEST ONLINE DATABASE OF PATIENT REVIEWS FOR DOCTORS AND FACILITIES THEY AWARDED DR. STEVEN HAVARD: • Compassionate Doctor c e r t i f i c a t i o n fo r t re a t i n g patients with the utmost k i n d n e s s i n ove ra l l a n d b e d s i d e m a n n e r s c o re s • O n -T i m e P r o m p t n e s s a w a rd fo r c o n s i s te n t h i g h ra t i n g s fo r t i m e l i n e s s of appointments • Patients' Choice re c o g n i t i o n fo r m a k i n g a d i f fe re n c e i n t h e l i ve s of h i s p a t i e n ts a n d re c e i v i n g n e a r p e r fe c t s c o re s , a s voted by patients

He is now accepting new patients. El habla español.

CONTACT

1754 Broad Park Circle N Mansfield, Texas 76063 (817) 225-2718

INSTITUTE FOR HORMONAL BALANCE AND BIOTE Ma n d y Cot ten , D NP, A P R N , F N P - C Last year was a tough year for everyone but even more so for the thousands of men and women who are experiencing daily fatigue, unexplained weight gain, mood changes, and feelings of discomfort due to hormonal imbalance. Dr. Mandy Cotten, FNP-C has made it her life’s work to address these symptoms— and others—by helping balance hormones so her patients regain the vigor and good health they once enjoyed. And they couldn’t be more grateful.

Patients extol the care they receive at the Institute for Hormonal Balance in online reviews such as: “Dr. Mandy Cotten is a compassionate, kind, smart, and knowledgeable provider. She’s an example of what comprehensive care really looks like.”

“I’ve been going to them for years. I live 40 minutes away and would never consider going anywhere else.”

“The treatment has given me back a quality of life I didn’t think was possible. I love the staff and the service is professional and world class. I’ll keep making the trip from Australia as I can’t imagine life without this medical support.”

For many, the journey toward wellness begins by restoring the natural balance of their hormones with BioTE Medical’s method of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), helping ease their symptoms for physical, mental, and emotional wellness. For her female patients, Dr. Cotten begins with an annual well-woman exam offering her patients the chance to ask questions, discuss their symptoms, and make sure their body is operating the way it should.

“I’m passionate about longevity but also about optimal wellness and quality of

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life,” she said. “My goal is to empower male and female patients to make informed, savvy decisions about their own healthcare.”

Dr. Cotten completed her doctorate in Nursing at Loyola University in New Orleans with clinical training at both JPS and Baylor. She is certified through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). She has performed over 15,000 pellet procedures, making her one of the most experienced in pellet procedures within the BioTE network. She also offers aesthetic services, including Botox, dermal fillers, and SlimShots, weight management, vaginal rejuvenation, SkinPen, Emsella for incontinence, PRP injections for sexual wellness, and skin tightening, so patients look as good as they feel. Last year Dr Cotten decided to add IV hydration and vitamin therapy to her extensive list of services due to the immune boosting effects of this type of treatment. She is expanding her office in March 2021 to have an IV hydration center that is open 5 days a week.

As clinical director at BioTE, Dr. Cotten helps train others in the importance of hormone optimization to assist patients in achieving the highest quality of life.

The clinic at BioTE trains over 70 prac-

“ I ’ m p a s s i o n a te a b o u t longevity but also about o p t i m a l we l l n e s s a n d q u a l i t y o f l i fe , ” s h e s a i d . “ M y g o a l i s to e m p o we r m a l e a n d fe m a l e p a t i e n ts to m a ke i n fo r m e d , savvy decisions about their o w n h e a l t h c a re . ” titioners and their staff monthly. Dr. Cotten was also invited to present at the North Texas Nurse Practitioners Association on Hormone Optimization and was selected as a Top Family Nurse Practitioner by the International Nurse Association. When not on the job, she enjoys family time with her husband, Casey, and their two children.

CONTACT

4224 Park Springs Boulevard, Suite 100 Arlington Texas 76017 1875 West Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 100 Irving, Texas 75038 (817) 467-7474 BioTEMedical.com

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STEVEN W. THOMAS, DDS

AFTER 36 YEA RS AT THE SAME AD D RES S - D R. STEV EN W. THOMAS HAS MOV E D H I S D ENTAL OFFICE (LESS THAN 2 MILES AWAY )!

We are so excited about our new office space located on the ground floor of the Park Forest building (no more stairs or elevator to deal with) with plenty of parking, a spacious and comfortable lobby, nicely equipped patient rooms and the same wonderful team of people that cannot wait to greet you! We have implemented the recommended precautionary measures and guidelines directed by the CDC to ensure the safety of our patients while we collectively fight the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Please stop by 2304 W. Interstate 20, Suite 120, Arlington, Texas, 76017 to see us.

Our 817-468-1166 phone number remains the same.

DR. STEVEN W. THOMAS A N D H I S TEAM MAK E TRIPS TO THE DENTIST A B OU T MORE TH AN J UST TEETH! If you are a current patient, you know how much Dr. Steven W. Thomas and his team value relationships and love seeing you in the office. If you are not yet a patient - you are missing out! Dr. Thomas and his team are blessed to have chosen a profession that allows them to personally partner with those that trust them with their oral wellness. Dr. Thomas has been a consistent advocate for his patients since beginning his career. His team offers full-service dental care in a warm and inviting space. Integrity, empathy and following God’s guidance are the hallmarks of his practice. “Our desire is that your entire experience with us exceeds the expectations you have for any medical appointment. Every decision we make is about our patients. We use the latest dental industry technology so we can offer the best solutions for the friends, family and neighbors that put their trust in us for their oral health. I’m proud of the love and compassion my

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team extends to each patient. It is not only about teeth with us. We genuinely care for each person that walks through our doors and count it a great blessing to serve each and every person.” says Dr. Thomas.

G E T TI N G TO K N O W D R . T H O M AS. Dr. Steven William Thomas graduated from Texas A&M in College Station and completed dental school in Houston before beginning his dental career in 1983. Steven and his wife, Lori, were married in 2008 and live in Mansfield, Texas. They have a blended family of five children ranging in age from twenty to thirty-five and have four beautiful grandchildren. They are active members of Walnut Ridge Baptist Church and seek opportunities to serve locally and globally through supported ministries.

Dr. Thomas says, “Daily I lean on the wisdom of Romans 8:28 which says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” I feel abundantly blessed that God has allowed me to do work I love, with people I love, in a community I love.”

We always welcome new patients and hope to meet you at our new location very soon!

“ O u r d e s i re i s t h a t yo u r e n t i re ex p e r i e n c e w i t h u s exc e e d s t h e ex p e c ta t i o n s yo u h a ve fo r a n y m e d i c a l a p p o i n t m e n t . Ev e r y d e c i s i o n we m a ke i s a b o u t o u r p a t i e n ts . We u s e t h e l a te s t d e n ta l i n d u s t r y te c h n o l o g y s o we c a n o f fe r t h e b e s t s o l u t i o n s fo r t h e f r i e n d s , fa m i l y a n d n e i g h b o rs t h a t p u t t h e i r t r u s t i n u s fo r t h e i r o ra l h e a l t h . I ’ m p ro u d of the love and compassion my te a m ex te n d s to e a c h p a t i e n t .

I t i s n o t o n l y a b o u t te e t h w i t h u s . We g e n u i n e l y c a re fo r e a c h p e rs o n t h a t w a l ks t h ro u g h o u r d o o rs a n d c o u n t i t a g re a t b l e s s i n g to s e r ve e a c h a n d e ve r y p e rs o n . ” CONTACT

2304 W. Interstate 20, Suite 120 Arlington, Texas 76017 (817) 468-1166 STEVENWTHOMASDDS.COM

CITYVIEW AUDIOLOGY & HEARING AIDS, INC. D ia n e Bl a i s i n g , Au .D ., A DA , A B A , FA A A

It should have been no surprise to Diane Blaising’s family when she found her calling helping others live a better life through improved hearing. Way back in elementary school, it was a young Diane who wowed her classmates with a science project demonstrating boneconduction hearing.

“This was back when we had portable record players,” she says. “I took the record player to school, and instead of using the needle on the record, I had a sewing needle stuck into a pencil eraser.

We’d hold the wooden end of the pencil between our teeth and place the needle on the turning record and could hear the record through our teeth and bones in our skulls. It’s not coming through your ear canals. It’s bone-conduction hearing.”

The workings of the human auditory system haven’t ceased to amaze Diane.

Now, as a board-certified doctor of audiology, she’s discovered she likes the human side of audiology even more than the medical/science side. “I love the patient contact and making a difference in the lives of my patients the most,” she says.

After more than 25 years serving as an audiologist, the last 13 with her own practice, Dr. Blaising provides a source for total hearing care. “I want my office to serve as a resource center for everything hearing,” she says. “I opened Cityview Audiology & Hearing Aids because I wanted to do more for my patients. For instance, we offer a free aural rehab class for anyone who wants to learn coping strategies for people with hearing loss and their families.

Sometimes family members need a little education about how to communicate with the one with hearing difficulties.”

Dr. Blaising says, “Our entire team joins me in our mission to help our patients obtain a better quality of life by

BY ME RE D IT H KNI GH T

enhancing their ability to communicate with family and friends, leading to deeper, more meaningful relationships,” she says. “We love helping working men and women be more successful in their careers. We love helping grandparents have better communication with their grandchildren. We live in a time when hearing aid technology is extremely sophisticated, and we have the ability to treat any hearing loss successfully.

Every patient is different. So we stay abreast of advancements in the programming software that allows us to correctly fit hearing instruments to each unique hearing loss.”

Dr. Diane Blaising began her career in audiology in 1992. She received her doctor of audiology degree from the Arizona School of Health Sciences and her master’s degree in audiology from the Callier Center for Communication Disorders at the University of Texas at Dallas. She has years of experience working with hearing-impaired adults

and children in otolaryngologists’ offices and as a pediatric audiologist at the Louisville Deaf Oral School. Dr. Blaising is board-certified in audiology by the American Board of Audiology and has twice been given the Ace Award for continuing education.

CONTACT

7801 Oakmont Blvd, Ste 109 Fort Worth, Texas (817) 263-1800 CityviewHearing.com

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MANSFIELD FAMILY DENTISTRY Joh n Ba u er, D D S a n d C od y B a ue r, DDS

Dr. John Bauer is living the life. After over 30 years in private practice, he’s not only seeing his fourth generation of patients, but he’s doing it with his wife, Terri, by his side and in partnership with their son, Dr. Cody Bauer. Together, the Bauer family is treating grandparents, parents, children— and those children’s children. And he can’t think of anything he’d rather be doing.

For more than three decades, the Mansfield community has counted on Dr. John and his family for knowyou-by-name family dentistry that’s also at the leading edge of dental technology. From routine maintenance to conservative restorative dentistry—all the way to dramatic smile makeovers, the Bauers are Mansfield’s one-stop dental shop. Drs. John and Cody Bauer also offer dentures, crowns, and bridges extractions, dental implants, Invisalign Clear Tooth Aligners for straightening teeth, and beautiful porcelain veneers to correct chips and gaps.

CO NS ERVATIVE CARE The Drs. Bauer place an emphasis on relationships: with their patients, with their family, and with their community, offering Mansfield a true “dental home”.

Drs. John and Cody Bauer believe in taking time to discuss treatment options in an unhurried, down-home manner never proceeding with treatment, until the patient understands all their options.

Because it’s always better to preserve the natural tooth, they emphasize patient education and empowerment, simply talking with their patients, teaching them to advocate for their own oral health, to keep natural teeth and gums healthy and intact.

CO S M E TIC DENTISTRY Whether you’re repairing damage to your teeth or want to make a dramatic change, Drs. John and Cody Bauer can sit with you, listen to your wishes and desires, and compile a cosmetic

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BY ME RE D IT H KNI GH T

dentistry treatment plan, to give you that fully-functioning, gorgeous smile of your dreams. They’ve invested in the very latest dental advancements, including laser dentistry, 3D CT scanner, pain-free injections, digital impression technology, and gum disease laser therapy. Why not finish off your beautiful, healthy smile with in-office laser tooth whitening.

I MPL ANTS When the natural tooth is beyond help, the Drs. Bauer can provide you with a dental implant that’s undistinguishable from your natural tooth. A permanent, natural-looking tooth that’s anchored to your jaw with a titanium post, it gives you the same function and biting strength as your natural tooth and preserves your facial structure.

30 YEARS PROVIDING MANSFIELD FAMILIES WITH ALL THE DENTAL CARE THEY NEED UNDER ONE ROOF INCLUDING: • Full Menu of Cosmetic Dentistry Options • C row n s , B r i d g e s , I m p l a n ts , a n d o t h e r re s to ra t i ve o p t i o n s • C h i l d r e n ’s D e n t i s t r y • H e l p fo r S l e e p A p n e a • I n v i s a l i g n C l e a r To o t h A l i g n e r s

CH I L D RE N ' S D E N T I ST RY For children as young as three, the Mansfield Family Dentistry team takes it slow, talking to kids, explaining each thing they do before they do it, and taking extra time to educate parent and child about caring for their teeth for a lifetime or optimum oral health.

Find out more at MansfieldDentistry. com or call (817) 473-0291 to schedule an appointment.

CONTACT

100 Carlin Road Mansfield, Texas 76063 (817) 473-0291 MansfieldDentistry.com

ACCENT ON YOU PLASTIC SURGERY AND MEDI SPA Y A n t h on y Na ka mu ra , M D

There’s a reason people throughout the Metroplex—and far beyond—travel to Accent on You Plastic Surgery and Medi Spa. The reason? Dr. Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura. For over 30 years, Dr. Nakamura has set the standard for excellence in cosmetic enhancement with an emphasis on natural-looking results in plastic surgery and body contouring. It’s you, only better. Whether you’re interested in breast augmentation, a tummy tuck, or a complete Mommy Makeover, Dr. Nakamura can help you to achieve the outcome of you want with a procedure tailored specifically for you.

With thousands of happy patients in his wake, most of the new patients he sees have been enthusiastically referred to him. He also sees many repeat patients, so happy with the changes they’ve made that they’d like to do further tweaking.

His state-of-the-art Accent on You Plastic Surgery Center is a fully accredited, free-standing surgery center with at least five nurses in the building to assist with the care of patients and their families.

When you call Accent on You with questions before or after your surgery, a nurse or nurse coordinator is readily available to answer your call and relay your questions of concerns to Dr. Nakamura. “As I’m only steps away, you will get the answers you need quickly,” he said.

Dr. Nakamura places an emphasis on patient education and empowerment, good-naturedly walking each patient through treatment options, including realistic expectations, likely outcomes, and any potential risks or complications of surgery. Because each of his patients is unique, all services are specialized for each patient. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere enables patients to carefully consider their options, so they know the decisions they make are the right ones for them.

In addition to plastic surgery procedures of the breast and body, Dr. Nakamura also oversees Accent on Your Med Spa offer-

BY MIMI G RE E N WOOD KNI GH T

ing excellence in chemical peels, fillers, facials, lash extensions, microdermabrasion, microneedling, CoolScuplting, and physician grade skincare products.

ME ET D R. N AKA M U R A A graduate of the University of Texas, Dr. Nakamura completed med school at UTMB Galveston, his internship and residency training at LSU School of Medicine, Charity Hospital New Orleans and residency training in plastic surgery at UTMB Galveston. Dr. Nakamura is a member of the American Medical Association, the American Society Medical Association, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and Texas Medical Association and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

When not on the job, Dr. Nakamura enjoys playing golf, skiing, reading, and playing the piano. A firm believer in giving back, he supports Locks of Love, Boys and Girls Club, The Make a Wish Foundation, and other worthy causes.

Ask him about his greatest accomplishment though and he doesn’t hesitate, “It has been watching my son and daughter grow into adults I love and admire.”

Dr. Nakamura is now accepting new patients.

D r. N a ka m u ra p l a c e s an emphasis on patient education a n d e m p o we r m e n t , g o o d - n a t u re d l y wa l k i n g e a c h p a t i e n t t h ro u g h t re a t m e n t o p t i o n s , i n c l u d i n g re a l i s t i c ex p e c ta t i o n s , l i ke l y o u tc o m e s , a n d a n y p o te n t i a l r i s ks o r complications of s u rg e r y.

CONTACT

3030 South Cooper Street Arlington, Texas 76015 (817) 417-7200 AccentOnYou.com

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ARLINGTON ORTHOPEDICS ASSOCIATION Fran k Rod ri g u ez, M D

Dr. Frank Rodriguez always knew helping people was in his future. He can’t remember a time when he didn’t want to be a doctor, but he does remember having a rival ambition as a boy. “When I was a kid, I lived for all things sports,” he said. “I played every game that would have me and harbored dreams of becoming a professional athlete.”

Lucky for Dr. Rodriguez—and his patients—he found a way to combine his love of sports with his dream of fixing people through orthopedics. As an orthopedic surgeon with over twentyfive years’ experience, Dr. Rodriguez gets to help people of all walks of life reduce their pain and restore their bodies’ functionality and mobility. He takes joy in seeing patients who came to him riddled with pain and limitations get back to what they love, whether that’s scoring a touchdown, running a marathon, or just enjoying their everyday life pain-free.

Dr. Rodriguez specializes in reconstruction, replacement, and arthroscopy of the shoulder, hip, and knee. He stays at the forefront of medical advances and breakthroughs, yet he’s never too busy to sit down with his patients to explain every option, answer any question, and put each patient at ease. Dr. Rodriguez wants patients to feel like family, and he has seen some of his patients for over twenty years. Some have trusted him with a few different joint replacements, and others have encouraged family members to come in for care, so Dr. Rodriguez is able to meet and improve the lives of several members of the same family.

Dr. Rodriguez lives with his wife Kimberly, the love of his life, his best friend, and his partner of over thirtyseven years. He and Kimberly both agree that Texas is the best state to live in, and they’re proud to call it home. Together they raised three kids and are keeping their fingers crossed for grandchildren.

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BY ME RE D IT H KNI GH T

They love the Dallas Fort Worth area because it has the best combination of professional opportunities and, you guessed it—sports!

In his free time, Dr. Rodriguez indulges his love of sports by cycling, going to college football games, and collecting sports memorabilia, especially sports cards from the ‘60s and ‘70s. In fact, some of his basketball card sets are the top in the world. The family dog, Duncan, the ninth Golden Retriever the Rodriguezes have had over the years, even gets his name from former Spurs star, Tim Duncan.

Dr. Rodriguez’s home-away-from-home is Christ Chapel Church in Fort Worth.

He and his wife both enjoy Bible study and put God first in everything they do. Dr. Rodriguez always appreciates the opportunity to share the gospel with his patients and often prays with them before their surgeries, grateful for another way to connect with his patients and set their minds at ease.

A s a n o r t h o p e d i c s u rg e o n w i t h o ve r t we n t y - f i ve ye a rs ’ ex p e r i e n c e , D r. R o d r i g u e z g e ts to h e l p p e o p l e o f a l l wa l ks o f l i fe re d u c e t h e i r p a i n a n d re s to re their bodies’ functionality and m o b i l i t y. H e ta ke s j o y i n s e e i n g p a t i e n ts w h o c a m e to h i m r i d d l e d w i t h p a i n a n d l i m i ta t i o n s g e t b a c k to w h a t t h e y l o ve , w h e t h e r t h a t ’s s c o r i n g a to u c h d o w n , r u n n i n g a m a r athon, or just enjoying their e ve r yd a y l i fe p a i n - f re e .

CONTACT

800 Orthopedic Way Arlington, Texas 76015 (817) 375-5200 ArlingtonOrtho.com

ATLAS VEIN CARE Th oma s Ei d son , D O

True of false—Only middle-aged people get varicose veins—Crossing your legs is bad for your veins—Your diet doesn’t affect my vein health. Did you know that each of these is false? Arlington native Thomas Eidson does, and he spends his days addressing these and other veinrelated issues with his growing patient base at Atlas Vein Care. As a physician board certified by the American Board of Osteopathic Family Physicians and a diplomate of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, he is uniquely qualified to partner with his patients suffering from a broad range of vein-related conditions.

“I always knew I wanted to be a doctor; wanted to care for people,” he said. “But it wasn’t until my residency, that I saw patients coming through the hospital complaining of leg pains that I realized vein care was my calling.” His patients would certainly agree.

“To me there’s no greater satisfaction than hearing stories like the grandmother who’s able to spend days walking through Disney with her grandchild without the pain her legs used to cause her due to underlying vein problems,” Dr. Eidson said. “When we can change a life for the better like that, that’s a great day.”

At Atlas Vein Care, Dr. Eidson focuses exclusively on the diagnoses and treatment of vein-related problems in the legs performing every medical vein treatment himself, without deferring to a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.

Since 2011, he has safely and successfully performed thousands of vein treatments to help improve patient self-confidence and quality of life. “My goal and the goal of my staff is to treat each patient as an individual, never just another patient,” he said.

“It’s vital that we slow down and speak

BY ME RE D IT H KNI GH T

to each one and make them a part of their treatment and recovery.”

When not on the job, he is a husband, fisherman, hunter, gym buff, and musician. He and his wife are active members of Gateway .

“My life’s philosophy is to be a good steward of all God has given me,” he said. “Ultimately everything we have is God’s. Luke 16:10 says, ‘If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won't be honest with greater responsibilities.’ From the moment you step into our clinic, you are family. We want you to ask questions and understand the treatment. We want you to feel better. We thank God for each day that He gives us a chance to help someone feel better; help them get back to a pain-free, normal life.”

“ I a l wa ys k n e w I w a n te d to b e a d o c to r ; wa n te d to c a re fo r p e o p l e , ” h e s a i d . “ B u t i t wa s n ’t u n t i l m y re s i d e n c y, t h a t I s a w p a t i e n ts c o m i n g t h ro u g h t h e h o s p i ta l c o m p l a i n ing of leg pains that I re a l i z e d ve i n c a re w a s m y c a l l i n g . ” H i s p a t i e n ts wo u l d c e r ta i n l y a g re e .

CONTACT

2701 Matlock Road, Suite 103 Arlington, Texas 76015 (817)-795-8346 AtlasVein.com

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KOS/DANCHAK AUDIOLOGY & HEARING AIDS Melissa D a n ch a k, Au D, CCC - A

Dr. Melissa Danchak, Owner/Audiologist at Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids has a few simple professional philosophies: “we want to help people hear better and we want to exceed the level of service they are expecting.”

Because your hearing health directly contributes to your overall well-being and quality-of-life, it makes sense to take care of your hearing health the same way you care about the rest of your health.

“We believe that better hearing health care is an investment, not a transaction.

The services that we provide and the patient-first approach we take reflect that belief.“ For over 35 years, Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids has been Helping North Texans Hear Better!

They help a grandmother hear her grandchildren more clearly when they speak on the phone. They help a working professional hear better in their place of employment. They help people hear better in social situations and at their place of worship. "There are not many audiology practices in the North Texas area that can say they’ve been helping people hear better for over 35 years," Dr. Danchak says. "We believe that how we meet with people and the delivery of the services we provide is ultimately about giving an experience that makes them feel confident in their decision to address their hearing health care needs with us!”

Each day, Dr. Danchak and her staff meet with people that give them the opportunity to earn their trust. “Their confidence in us and their positive reviews on Google and our Facebook page are humbling to say the least. We are grateful for their kind words. Their shared experiences help others feel confident about addressing their hearing health care needs with us.“ The first step to hearing better begins

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with a discussion about the challenges you are having when it comes to both hearing and understanding. After a thorough hearing evaluation, a live listening demonstration with hearing devices is next. “Experience tells us this is the best way to help someone realize the positive quality-of-life improvements hearing devices will have.”

Your appointment will be informative and the best first step to hearing the best you can! “Our goal is to ensure that you have a positive experience and that you understand your hearing health care needs and solutions we can provide.”

A s k u s a b o u t o u r C o m p l e te H e a r i n g H e a l t h C a re P ro g ra m w h i c h i n c l u d e s f re e b a t te r i e s fo r t h e l i fe t i m e o f yo u r devices!

“ I h a ve b e e n a c l i e n t o f Ko s / Danchak since the early 80's.

T h e y o f fe r exc e l l e n t p ro d u c ts , a n d t h e y ta ke g o o d c a re o f t h e i r c l i e n ts . I j u s t p u rc h a s e d a n e w s e t o f h e a r i n g a i d s f ro m t h e m - I t h i n k t h i s i s p ro b a b l y t h e 4 t h s e t f ro m t h e m . I h i g h l y re c o m m e n d t h e m to a n yo n e who may be having hearing p ro b l e m s . ” M i c k i e G . , Ke l l e r, T X .

CONTACT

101 West Randol Mill Road Arlington, Texas 76011 (817) 277-7039 northtxhearing.com facebook.com/kos.danchak

ACCENT PODIATRY ASSOCIATES D h a rm es h Bh a kta , D P M , FAC FAS, Sh a e Pa sch a l , D PM , FAC FAS, Jin al M eh ta , D PM , AAC FAS, Jacob J a s per, D PM , A AC FAS, a n d Steve S i l vey, LPT, CWC It’s easy not to think about your feet and ankles when everything is working and pain-free. But when conditions such as plantar fasciitis, neuromas, hammertoes, bunions, flat feet, heel spurs, or Achilles tendonitis have you down, it’s hard to think of much else.

Drs. Dharmesh Bhakta, Shae Paschal, Jinal Mehta, and Jacob Jasper at Accent Podiatry Associates understand. They spend their days looking for and treating the root cause of these and other foot or ankle problems—not merely masking symptom but finding and addressing the source of your pain or disfunction.

They want their patients to understand daily pain isn’t just a symptom of aging.

You don’t need to suck it up and deal with it. Their one-stop-shop for all things foot and ankle can handle anything from simple fungal nails to complex foot surgery always placing an emphasis on patient education, concisely presenting all options to their patients then partnering with them to pursue the least invasive treatment first—only progressing to surgery, when all conservative options have been explored.

The doctors and staff of Accent Podiatry realize your life is as hectic as theirs is. That’s why they’re committed to making their practice and care as convenient and accessible as possible, respecting appointment times, and making themselves available, when their patients need them. On their website at AccentPodiatry.com they provide educational videos on topics such as Total Ankle Reconstruction, Triple Nerve Decompression for chronic foot pain, and possible causes of chronic burning feet. They accept most insurance plans and welcome new patients.

BY ME RE D IT H KNI GH T

Accent Podiatry is more than just a healthcare practice. It’s a group of individuals who collectively make up a close family that’s involved in the care and wellbeing of their patients, neighbors, and friends. The Accent Podiatry offices at 3050 South Center Street in Arlington and 221 Regency Parkway in Mansfield are fun places to visit, with doctors and staff always laughing and joking around.

It’s easy to have that attitude, when you’re doing the work you love.

If you’re experiencing problems with your feet or ankles, it’s not just a biproduct of aging or a nuance to learn to live with. Let the professionals at Accent Podiatry help you find the root cause of your foot/ankle problems and regain your active, pain-free live again.

Chronic foot and ankle pain can greatly affect the quality of your life. Call Accent Podiatry, if you’re suffering from: • Fo o t a n d A n k l e P a i n • Bunions • Heel Pain • P l a n t e r Fa s c i i t i s • D i a b e t i c Wo u n d C a re • F l a t Fe e t • N e u ro m a s • C h i l d r e n ' s Fo o t C a r e • Hammertoes • A c h i l l e s Te n d o n i t i s

CONTACT

Arlington Office 3050 South Center Street, Suite 140 Arlington, Texas 76014 (817) 557-1006 Mansfield Office 221 Regency Parkway, Suite 117 Mansfield, Texas 76063 (817) 477-3611 AccentPodiatry.com

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AMY SCHOENING, DDS

Dr. Amy Schoening can tell you in one word what she loves most about practicing dentistry—relationships.

As a family dentist in private practice, she treats generations of families, sometimes caring for kids and their parents and their grandparents. The time she spends chatting with them and sharing their day-to-day lives is what gets her out of bed each morning.

In an era when big-box dental clinics are rushing patients through on a dental treadmill, Dr. Schoening offers her patients a dental home that’s small by design, where they can slow down and have their questions answered and where dental treatment never proceeds, until the patient understands exactly what to expect and why.

When patients visit this boutique dental practice, they know they’ll see Dr. Schoening herself—every time. And the dental assistants and hygienists will know them by name. “Having the skill to truly transform someone's life by giving them a smile they can feel confident about is my passion," she said. “I want to keep my practice small enough that I have time to tune into each individual patient and their needs—whether physical or emotional. I want them to feel like they’re the only patient I’ll see that day."

With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Schoening is still passionate about reeducating herself on the latest techniques and technology.

She hand-selected a staff that shares her patient-centric philosophy. Together they place an emphasis on patient education and empowerment. “When a patient understands why they’re doing something, they’re much more likely to do it,” she said.

“I want to thank my wonderfully supportive family and a team of people who’ve stuck with me and believed in

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BY ME RE D IT H KNI GH T

my goals and visions,” Dr. Schoening said. “It’s been an honor for me to build a boutique practice that reflects my philosophy and my vision for dental care. In the end, I hope the people I’ve known and touched—both personally and professionally—will remember me as a good person who cared for others, someone they could trust without hesitation.”

Dr. Schoening is an active member and past president and board member of Dental Health Arlington, a nationally recognized non-profit with the goal of providing preventive and pain-relieving services to low-income residents as well as educating children about healthy oral hygiene habits. She and her husband, Andrew’s, support of the Oakridge School Board has included donating time and finances to rebuild the Oakridge track and wrestling center.

A mom of two, she enjoys reading, yoga, and traveling to Montana to ski in the winter and hike in the summer.

To provide her loyal patients with all the care they need under one roof, Dr. Schoening offers a full menu of preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry including: • U l t ra s o n i c C l e a n i n g s • N o n - S u rg i c a l G u m C a re • Complete Full-Mouth Reconstruction • D e n t u re s a n d P a r t i a l s • P o r c e l a i n Ve n e e r s • C o m p l e te S m i l e M a ke ove rs • I n v i s a l i g n C l e a r To o t h A l i g n e r s • Implant-Supported Partials, D e n t u re s , C row n s , B r i d g e s

CONTACT 1757 North Broad Park Circle, Suite 101 Mansfield, Texas 76063 (817) 992-9201 SchoeningDDS.com

SKANDII MEDSPA An n a Toker, M D , FACS , FASC R S

Let’s face it. Visiting a colon and rectal surgeon isn’t at the top of anybody’s list of favorite things to do. But patients of Dr. Anna Toker describe her as compassionate, caring, and possessing a great sense of humor. One long-time patient said this, “Dr. Toker is a rare combination of clinical leadership and the lost art of bedside manner. She truly listens and understands her patients’ needs, is compassionate and thoughtful, but also skilled in the latest technology and clinical research.” Another patient said, “She goes above and beyond to make sure her patients understand her plan of care for them”. Still another wrote, “She makes you feel completely comfortable in every situation.”

Dr. Toker begins each visit by slowing down and taking the time to really get to know her patients. She strives to be approachable and never wants a patient to leave without having all their questions answered. Although she is a highly skilled and experienced surgeon, Dr. Toker always seeks the least-invasive, viable treatment option first. When surgery is the best way forward, she’s extensively trained in robotic surgery which offers her patients less pain, less bleeding, quicker recovery, and much more precise results. It’s no wonder her team at USMD was recognized as one of the top hospitals in the USA for length of stay after colorectal surgery and Dr. Toker herself has been awarded multiple Best Doctor awards. “As long as I can remember, I wanted to be a doctor,” she said. “Now I want to be the doctor my patients deserve.”

“I’ve spent a lifetime mastering the art of surgery,” she said. “I feel like a better approach to patient care should be my priority. I’m proposing a holistic methodology that emphasizes wholefood supplements and minimally invasive surgery allowing my patients to achieve energy, beauty, and wellness.”

BY ME RE D IT H KNI GH T

Dr. Toker is also medical director of Skandii MedSpa where she offers supervised weight loss, body sculpting, and medical aesthetics, so her patients can look as good as they feel. “Our mission is to encourage greater self-confidence through improved weight, appearance, skin tone, nutrition, and hydration,” Dr. Toker said. “We encourage non-surgical approaches to aging to achieve natural beauty and wellness through a less-ismore philosophy.”

When not on the job, Dr. Toker volunteers for Catholic Charities, in particular at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Waxahachie and St. Martin Catholic School. She donates monetarily to non-profit programs that help feed the underprivileged. A college and pro tennis player and tennis teacher, Dr. Toker is still a member of the United States Professional Tennis Association.

Her free time is happily spent as a wife and mother.

DR. TOKER HELPS HER PATIENTS EMBRACE THEIR NATURAL BEAUTY AND WELLNESS AS MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF SKANDII MEDSPA OFFERING: • C l e a n S ta r t We i g h t Lo s s Academy • W h o l e Fo o d S u p p l e m e n t a t i o n • Body Contouring • S k i n R e s u r fa c i n g a n d Tightening • La s e r H a i r R e m ova l • I n j e c t i o n s , F i l l e r s , Fa c i a l s , P e e l s , a n d m o re CONTACT

1757 North Broad Park Circle, Suite 101 Mansfield Texas 76063 DrToker.com (682) 341-9039 SkandiiMedSpa.com

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COVENANT WOMEN’S HEALTH Edileo l a M a ki n d e, M D FACOG

Covenant Women’s Health is conveniently located in the heart of the Arlington entertainment district in close proximity to Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital and Medical City Arlington Hospital. Their mission at Covenant Women’s Health, being mindful of the uniqueness of each woman and the specifics of her situation, is to provide state of the art individual treatment to women from all walks of life, from adolescence through post-menopause in a caring, sensitive, compassionate, and dignified manner.

Dr. Makinde states “Women of all ages from all backgrounds generally put the well-being of their families and loved ones before their own”. “I want to ensure that our patients get the information they need to prioritize their care hence they are satisfied with the delivery of their care. I listen to my patients, encourage them to ask questions so that they can make informed and positive health choices that are beneficial to them.”

Dr. Makinde feels privileged to serve her patients and enjoys caring for them and it shows in the way she interacts with them. “In my years of practice as a physician, I have discovered that it's of paramount importance to uncover what is most important to my patients, as well as learning their expectations before presenting what I consider to be their medical priority, from my point of view.” “Encouraging, educating, and empowering women using information about health and wellness is my passion.”

Her patients describe her as “knowledgeable, informative, caring and compassionate” per her online reviews.

It is no wonder that she has been awarded Vitals On-Time Promptness Award, Patients Choice Award, and Living Magazines Top Doc recognition.

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ME ET TH E TE A M Edileola (Ola) Makinde, M.D. FACOG completed her residency at Texas Tech University Health Science Center, El Paso, and has been in practice for over 20 years. Ola is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and she is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She is married, has 3 wonderful children, and is very active in her church.

Tonnette Black, MSN, APRN WHNP-BC is our board-certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master’s in Nursing from the University of South Alabama and is board certified as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.

Tonnette is Married, has three children, and is active in her church.

DR. EDILEOLA MAKINDE OFFERS PATIENT-CENTRIC CARE IN A WARM, WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT INCLUDING: • P re c o n c e p t i o n C o u n s e l l i n g • P re n a ta l C a re • Delivery including VBAC • I n fe r t i l i t y • We l l Wo m e n E xa m • Abnormal Pap Smear Management • B re a s t C a n c e r S c re e n i n g • Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding • S T I S c r e e n i n g a n d Tr e a t m e n t • Menopause Management • H o r m o n e R e p l a c e m e n t T h e ra py • C o n t ra c e p t i o n

“ E n c o u ra g i n g , e d u c a t i n g , a n d e m p o we r i n g wo m e n u s i n g i n fo r m a t i o n a b o u t h e a l t h a n d wellness is my passion.”

CONTACT

801 West Road to Six Flags Street, Suite 116 Arlington, Texas 76012 (817) 542-0833 info@covenantwh.com CovenantWomensHealth.com

BACK 2 WELLNESS CHIROPRACTIC Mic h ael C Ba n k, D C

Dr. Michael Bank has a question for you? What part of your body transmits impulses at a speed faster than a racecar? Answer—your nervous system.

As a chiropractor, he specializes in keeping that high-speed roadway flowing. “The central nervous system is comprised of your brain and spinal column,” he said. “A healthy, functioning spinal cord employs more than 12 billion neurons that help your brain funnel signals throughout a delicate bundle of nerve fibers branching off to all parts of your body—including your heart, lungs, stomach, muscles, and skin.”

If you’re experiencing headaches, asthma, allergies, menstrual issues, sciatica, chronic tiredness, or abnormal sleep, it may be that something is interfering with the normal, healthy function of the nerve fibers housed and protected by your spinal column.

“As a chiropractor, my specialty is using gentle, hands-on manipulation to locate, analyze, and correct spinal misalignments that can be leading to these and other issues,” Dr. Banks said.

“By correcting spinal misalignment and removing nerve interference, we allow the communication between your brain, spinal column, and all the systems of the body to f low freely providing relief from pain, increased mobility, and a greater sense of wellbeing.

Chiropractic is about optimizing your nervous system, so it can function like the free-f lowing, multidirectional system it was designed to be.”

Dr. Bank’s website at BankChiropractic. com is replete with testimonials from patients living their best life thanks to chiropractic wellness care. “It’s always easier to prevent a problem than to correct one,” Dr. Bank said. “Combined with sufficient exercise, good nutrition, and proper sleep, consistent chiropractic wellness care can relieve allergies and asthma in children, ease arthritis and

B Y M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO B Y L A U R E N M E D E A N

maintain balance in seniors, and keep all of us moving well and feeling great.”

The patients of Back 2 Wellness Chiropractic enjoy know-you-by-name care at a family-owned and operated chiropractic practice that’s also on the leading edge of chiropractic science.

“I’m blessed to work with my wife, two sisters-in-law, and a staff that’s become like family,” Dr. Bank said. “They make the office warm and welcoming and take the same obsessive approach to making sure our patients get well and enjoy an amazing chiropractic experience.”

With a special interest in sports medicine, Dr. Bank places an emphasis on patient empowerment and education. “I have an extensive medical background based in sports medicine earning a bachelors and master’s degree, as well as my doctorate in chiropractic,” he said. “I also earned a post graduate certification in brain traumatology and whiplash injuries from the Spine Research Institute of San Diego.”

When not on the job, Dr. Bank enjoys working out, spending time with family, and volunteering as a YMCA coach. Call Back 2 Wellness at (817) 453-9339 to receive personalized answers to your questions or to schedule an appointment to develop a plan of chiropractic care specific to your condition and your health goals.

CONTACT

8011 South Cooper Street, Suite 101 Arlington, Texas 76001 (817) 453-9339 BankChiropractic.com

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IVFMD OF ARLINGTON, IRVING, AND GRAPEVINE Sy Le, M D , Beverl y Reed , M D, a n d Ren ju Ra j , M D It was only to help his sister that Sy Le took a college physiology class. “I just did it to tutor her,” he said, “But I fell in love with the way the human body works. It’s so perfect and has evolved over time.” So, he embarked upon medical school where he had a hard time choosing a specialty. “I loved surgery,” he said. “But I also loved pediatrics and psychology. Then I realized gynecology would combine all the things I love: surgery, counseling with patients, and bringing babies into the world.”

Dr. Le went to work as a general OBGYN and loved it. “It was intellectually stimulating,” he said. “There was always something new to learn. I adored the relationships with the patients. And I felt like God’s instrument bringing life into the world.”

But something began to nag at Dr. Le. “I met more and more couples who weren’t able to conceive,” he said. “I felt limited in my ability to help them. I was very blessed to have chosen the right field, but my training didn’t equip me to help these couples, so desperate for a child.” So, he decided to go back to school for two additional years and become a fertility specialist.

Drs. Beverly Reed and Renju Raj have similar stories of successful OB-GYN practices but frustration at their inability to help couples struggling with infertility. Now as specialists in reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI), they work with men and women helping them realize the dream of parenthood.

Dr. Reed specializes in performing successful tubal ligation reversal procedures. Dr. Raj has a special interest in working with patients who’ve had multiple miscarriages in the past, helping them conceive and sustain a healthy pregnancy. Dr. Le specializes in all aspects of IVF with a focus on patient-customized protocols to help women with low egg reserves.

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Together Drs. Le, Raj, and Reed are committed to making REI affordable for patients for whom infertility services aren’t covered on their insurance. “Our mission is to find the most cost-effective way to help the patients who need us;” Dr. Reed said, “to make fertility treatment accessible to more couples.”

“We’re very candid about our pricing,” Dr. Raj said. “It’s all spelled out on our website. We’re told our affordable infertility treatment is the best kept secret in DFW, but we want more couples to know that IVF is affordable.”

“ O u r g o a l i s to p ro v i d e the highest-quality re p ro d u c t i ve m e d i c a l s e r v i c e s to o u r p a t i e n ts while using the most coste f fe c t i ve p a t h wa y. ”

“Our goal is to provide the highest-quality reproductive medical services to our patients while using the most cost-effective pathway,” Dr. Le said.

CONTACT

7501 Las Colinas Boulevard, Suite 200 Irving, Texas 75063 (972) 600-2842 600 West Mayfield Road Arlington, Texas 76014 (817) 677-1294 1631 Lancaster Drive, Suite 225 Grapevine, Texas 76051 (972) 600-2852 IVFMD.net

CGA WEIGHT LOSS AND SURGICAL SPECIALISTS C h ukwu ma Apa ka ma , M D, FACS

Meeting Dr. Chukwuma Apakama is like a breath of fresh air. Personable, attentive, sincere, and communicative, his passion for helping his patients and love for his medical specialty shine brightly.

You can’t help but know you’ve just met a remarkable individual dedicated to healing and caring for others. His skill and expertise, as well as his sincerity and altruism help make Dr. Apakama an excellent surgeon and a Top Doc. EXPERT IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY Dr. Apakama is a board-certified surgeon fellowship-trained in bariatric surgery, advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery, and surgical critical care.

He offers surgical weight loss solutions and performs general surgery, treating hernias, gall bladder disease, GERD, and much more.

“Ninety-nine percent of my surgeries are minimally invasive. With smaller incisions and less tissue trauma, patients typically experience less postoperative discomfort and recover more quickly,” he explains. Dr. Apakama performs both robotic-assisted surgery with the da Vinci Surgical System and traditional laparoscopic surgery.

SURGICAL WEIGHT LOSS BY A FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED BARIATRIC SURGEON Dr. Apakama helps obese patients “win by losing” with bariatric surgery. “It isn’t only about the visible outcome, but also about longevity of life and quality of life,” he says.

His comprehensive program includes weight loss medications, dietary and nutritional counseling, and multiple surgical weight loss options, including sleeve gastrectomy, duodenal switch, gastric bypass, and revisional surgery.

“I treat patients as I would want to be treated, with dignity and respect,” Dr. Apakama says. “I look at each patient

B Y A N N E T T E B R O O KS P H OTO B Y K E N N Y R I C H A R D P H OTO G R A P H Y

as a whole, listen and understand their mindset, and explain options. Weight loss surgery isn’t one size fits all. My goal is to guide my patients, helping them decide what will work best for them as individuals.”

• B a r i a t r i c s u rg e r y

He adds, “Weight loss is a steady, progressive journey. I’m here to help my patients every step of the way.”

• Hernia

MORE ABOUT CHUKWUMA APAKAMA, MD, FACS “Dr. Chuck” as patients call him, followed his boyhood dream of practicing medicine. He completed medical school in Nigeria, started his general surgery training in the U. K., then moved to the U.S., completing his general surgery residency at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons at Harlem Hospital, and fellowships at the prestigious Washington University in St. Louis and the renowned Cleveland Clinic in Florida. He and his wife, who have two little boys, moved to North Texas to put down roots and raise a family.

Dr. Apakama practiced in DFW for a few years before opening his new private practice, CGA Weight Loss and Surgical Specialists.

Whether you’re struggling with obesity and are interested in surgical or medical

• We i g h t l o s s m e d i c a t i o n s • Dietary advice and guidance • Obstructive sleep apnea • Diabetes • Gall bladder diseases • G a s t ro e s o p h a g e a l ref l u x disease weight loss, or require general surgery, you have a choice in surgeons. Dr. Apakama and his team look forward to welcoming you. Schedule an appointment today at any one of their locations.

CONTACT

7711 San Jacinto Place, Suite 200 Plano, Texas 75024 6121 North Highway 161, Suite 225 Irving, Texas 75038 2302 Lone Star Road, Suite 160 Mansfield, Texas 76063 (214) 440-1245 CGAWeightLoss.com

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CARE FERTILITY™

Babies are so special, and besides being adorable (those tiny noses!) they also inspire Drs. Kathy Doody, Kevin Doody, Anna Nackley, and Robin Thomas of CARE Fertility™ every day as they meet with people from all backgrounds, cultures, and life stages who want to get pregnant.

Established in 1989 by husband-and-wife team Drs. Kathy and Kevin Doody, and adding Dr. Nackley in 2001 and Dr. Thomas in 2012, CARE Fertility specializes in infertility offering in vitro fertilization (IVF), effortless IVF®, pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT), intrauterine insemination (IUI), surgery for endometriosis and fibroids, tubal reversal, egg donation, surrogacy, LGBTQ family building, egg freezing for women delaying pregnancy or facing cancer, sperm count and hormone testing, and hysterosalpingogram (HSG)/hysteroscopy. “The clinic has many first in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex,” said Dr. Kathy Doody, “including the first intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) pregnancy, the first successfully implemented blastocyst culture system, the first pregnancy following embryo biopsy and PGT for cystic fibrosis, the first successful pregnancy after an egg freeze, and more.”

CARE Fertility’s objective is to treat each patient with personalized care as they navigate the exciting and emotional journey of trying to conceive. “We are passionate about access to care and work to create innovative solutions that make fertility care available to more people,” said Dr. Kathy Doody. “Our goal at CARE Fertility is to help patients create their families.”

CARE Fertility is a pioneer of embryo culture using INVOcell technology for effortless IVF. Their effortless IVF solution is approximately half the cost of traditional IVF, while maintaining comparable success rates. The clinic also frequently participates in pharmaceutical IVF trials which may allow patients to have treatment they might not be able

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A N N A C . N A C K L E Y, M D , K E V I N J . D O O D Y, M D , K AT H L E E N M . D O O D Y, M D , R O B I N L . T H O M A S , M D , M O R G A N C O P E L A N D , PA - C

BY SYD NI ELLI S

to afford otherwise. “IVF can seem complicated and expensive,” said Dr. Kevin Doody. “Complicated in how it's executed or implemented, which has driven up the cost and that cost can be a financial barrier for a lot of patients.”

An aspect that sets CARE Fertility apart is how much they genuinely care about their patients. Dr. Nackley is a Rutledge Cancer Foundation Heart of Gold Award winner for providing fertility preservation services to women undergoing cancer treatment. “We want to help these young women understand how cancer and cancer treatments affect fertility, and to let them know that our goal is to give them hope for the future,” she shared.

Dr. Thomas went through her own infertility journey to have her four kids, which gives her a unique perspective and makes her even more compassionate. “If fertility is something you're struggling with, come in, be evaluated, and understand what your options are,” said Dr. Thomas.

“I think it’s really important to be proactive about your own fertility.”

CARE Fertility is a network provider and “Center of Excellence” for most insurance plans.

Take the first step toward your future by calling CARE Fertility today. Their goal is to help you make your dream come true.

COMPREHENSIVE FERTILITY SERVICES INCLUDING: • Fe r t i l i t y Te s t i n g • I n V i t r o Fe r t i l i z a t i o n ( I V F ) • Eg g Fr e e z i n g • Eg g D o n a t i o n • Fa m i l y B u i l d i n g L G B T Q

CONTACT

1250 Eighth Avenue, Suite 365 Fort Worth, Texas 76104 (817) 924-1572 1701 Park Place Avenue Bedford, Texas 76022 (817) 540-1157 Embryo.net

SEE THE WORLD THROUGH BETTER EYES

best of ARLINGTON & MANSFIELD READERS’ CHOICE

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Mickey lovers will delight in the special-edition collaboration between Disney, Coach, and artist Keith Haring.

COACH Signature Disney Mickey Mouse x Keith Haring Tote Bag

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COACH Disney Mickey Mouse x Keith Haring Camera Crossbody Bag

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COACH Disney Mickey Mouse x Keith Haring Highline Tote Bag Chalk / Brass

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COACH Disney Mickey Mouse x Keith Haring Madison Shoulder Bag

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wellness

SYMPTOMS OF CKD The signs and symptoms of CKD may include: Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite Fatigue, weakness, and sleep problems Changes in how much you urinate Swelling of feet and ankles Persistent itching Chest pain, if fluid builds up around the lining of the heart Shortness of breath, if fluid builds up in the lungs High blood pressure that’s difficult to control

THOSE AT HIGHEST RISK OF CKD Anyone can get CKD, but having high blood pressure puts you at greater risk of developing kidney disease that can lead to kidney failure and death if not treated. In addition to high blood pressure, other conditions that put you in the at-risk category for developing CKD include: Having type 1 or type 2 diabetes Smoking Obesity A family history of kidney disease

KEYS TO

kidney health FAC T S , S I G N S , C AU S E S , A N D PREVENTION OF KIDNEY DISEASE

BY DAVID BU ICE

ational Kidney Month, observed every March, helps remind us of the importance of our kidneys. These two small, vital organs, each about the size of a computer mouse, filter the blood in our body every 30 minutes, removing wastes, toxins, and excess fluid. They also help control blood pressure, stimulate the production of red blood cells, keep your bones healthy and regulate blood chemicals essential for life.

Unfortunately, kidney diseases are common and are the ninth leading cause of death in the U.S. Approximately 37 million Americans live with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Many are unaware of the problem because symptoms usually don’t show until the disease has progressed to a fairly serious stage.

FACTS ABOUT CKD CKD is a condition in which the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood as well as they should. Consequently, excess fluid and waste from your blood remain in the body and may cause other health problems, such as heart disease and stroke.

CKD has five stages, from very mild Stage 1 to Stage 5 and complete kidney failure. This level is referred to as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and at this point, you’ll need dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive.

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Being over 60 Being African American, Hispanic, Native American, or Asian

PREVENTION OF CKD The good news is that you can protect your kidneys with these healthy lifestyle habits.

Be careful with over-the-counter medications. When taking OTC pain relievers, follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Taking too many pain relievers can lead to kidney damage. To be safe, ask your doctor if certain OTC medications are safe for you.

Maintain a healthy weight. If you’re overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can improve blood pressure readings and help prevent CKD. Don’t smoke. Smoking can damage your kidneys and make existing damage worse. Talk to your doctor about strategies for quitting.

Select healthier foods. Focus on fruits and vegetables, lean meat, whole grains, and other heart-healthy foods.

Minimize daily salt consumption. Limit yourself to approximately 2,300 mg (about 1 teaspoon) daily.

Get enough sleep. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night.

Manage stress and make physical activity part of your day.

Consider enjoying stress-reducing activities — music, reading, meditation — and aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

GETTING MEDICAL HELP If you have persistent symptoms of kidney disease, particularly if you’re in one of the at-risk categories, you should make an appointment as soon as possible with your doctor. The symptoms of kidney disease sometimes mimic those of other illnesses, and your doctor will likely monitor your blood pressure and kidney function with blood and urine tests to determine if you’re suffering from CKD.

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Certified Family Law Mediator Collaboratively Trained 35 Years in Family Law Experience Donna J. Smiedt and Desaray Muma have been collaboratively trained to provide our clients with a private and less stressful way to resolve their family law disputes than in a courtroom. We are proud to work with a team of highly specialized professionals to address the entire family’s needs as we assist our clients in developing a new family dynamic, post-divorce, which includes providing tools to problem solve and co-parent for the best interest of their children.

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wellness

PROCEDURE

planning ost of us don’t look forward to having major surgery, even if we have been reassured that the risks are minimal. Using slang, we call it “going under the knife,” which doesn’t exactly conjure pleasant thoughts.

Some surgeries are unavoidable because the illness or injury is life-threatening. Other surgeries are elective, and you can plan them, and the individual’s condition doesn’t pose an immediate health risk. Everything from a tummy tuck to knee replacement to some cancer surgeries are in the elective category.

It’s okay to be apprehensive when you are awaiting major surgery. But you don’t have to let anxiety overwhelm you. Just as a surgeon preps for a procedure, you can do your own preparation. And that starts with being informed.

Learn everything you can about your surgery. Go online to reputable websites, or if you are technology challenged, go to the library. You will want to know what happens before, during, and after surgery. Is your procedure on an out-patient basis, or will you spend a day or more in the hospital? What is recovery like, and how long will it take before you can return to a normal routine.

No surgery is “one-size-fits-all,” of course, but you can get a good idea of what the average person faces having your surgery. As you educate yourself, write down questions you want to ask your surgeon. Don’t rely on your memory. It’s okay to bring a list of questions to your pre-surgery visit.

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STEPPING STONES TO A S U C C E S S F U L S U R G E RY

BY PET E ALFANO

If you have any doubts, don’t be shy about telling the surgeon you will get a second opinion. It is your body and well-being, after all.

Double-check to make sure the surgeon knows if you have underlying conditions, such as high blood pressure. Provide a list of medications you take and make sure the surgical team knows about any allergies you have. Also, find out how the medication you receive after surgery interacts with the drugs you take now.

If you have had surgery in the past, it is important to know what anesthesia was used and how you responded. Ask about the type of anesthesia that will be used in this procedure or request the same one that was used in a previous surgery. This is critical because while deaths during surgery are rare, most can be traced to an adverse reaction to anesthesia.

Remember that no man or woman is an island. Share the details of your surgery with a family member, whether it is a spouse, significant other, or relative. If you live alone, arrange for someone, perhaps a friend, to look in on you during your recovery, especially if you require bed rest for several days.

Also, be as healthy as possible before surgery. Don’t over-eat or feast on junk food. Exercise, if you can, and think positively. The goal is to be healthy in body and mind when you have surgery.

That will lead to a faster recovery.

aesthetics

H A I R T O D AY,

gone tomorrow THE LOWDOWN ON L A S E R H A I R R E M O VA L

BY C H RI ST I BLEVI NS

re you ready to toss your tweezers, get rid of your razor, wave bye-bye to waxing and bleaching, and find a more permanent solution for your unwanted hair? The latest laser hair removal technologies might be for you.

If you are picturing the painful procedures of the 1990s, it’s time to get some updated information for 2021.

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aesthetics | HAIR TODAY, GONE TOMORROW

ALL HAIR IS NOT CREATED EQUAL Laser hair removal works on most areas, including: Upper lip Legs Back

Chest Underarms Bikini area

Will It Hurt? — It’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about the question on everyone’s mind. How much will it hurt? Or, to put things in classic art terms: On a scale from Da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” to Munch’s “The Scream,” how painful is it?

The technology is suitable for any area except the scalp and the skin around the eyes. It is safe and effective for all skin tones. Darker, coarser hair usually responds to treatment more quickly. Platinum blondes, certain shades of red-heads, and people with grey hair may not be suitable candidates.

Preparing for Treatment — You will be asked to arrive with your natural skin tone. Stay out of the sun and tanning beds.

Avoid self-tanner. People often wonder if you can shave prior to treatment and the answer is a resounding, “Yes!” However, you will want to refrain from tweezing, plucking, and waxing before and during the procedure. Consult with your medical professional on all preparation requirements.

What to Expect? — During the procedure, your medical professional will press a laser instrument to your skin. The laser is directed onto the desired areas and damages the follicles with a controlled amount of heat.

People sometimes compare the sensation to a pinprick or snapping a tiny rubber band against your skin. The process is much faster than in the early days of laser hair removal, which means that most people experience minimal discomfort. If necessary, your medical professional can apply a topical numbing cream to alleviate the pain.

How Long Does It Take? — The length of each session depends on the size of the area being treated. Getting rid of a few hairs on your chin or underarms will take less time than removing the hair on your legs. Small areas can be treated in well under half an hour.

Smooth-ish Sailing — Although the laser is a bit like a magic wand, the unwanted hairs don’t disappear immediately. There’s a little delay to this magic. Hairs are shed over a period of days or weeks.

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aesthetics

A BETTER

view

LASER EYE SURGERY — W H AT Y O U N E E D T O K N O W

BY MIMI GRE E N W OOD KN IGH T

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hen eyeglasses were invented in Venice in 1284, known as the “roidi da ogli” or “round glass for the eyes,” they were a giant leap forward in vision correction. Imagine what those ancient Venetians would think about laser eye surgery. The procedure was discovered by accident in 1974 (almost 700 years later) by a surgeon who operated on a young boy after a corneal accident with astounding success. Over the next 47 years, laser eye surgery improved to the point that it’s now one of the most commonly performed elective surgeries in the country, freeing over 700,000 Americans from dependence on their “roidi da ogli” each year.

aesthetics | A BETTER VIEW

Today, a variety of laser procedures can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, cutting down — or even eliminating —your need for glasses and can usually be performed on an outpatient basis.

Laser eye surgery works by reshaping the cornea, so it ref lects light properly onto the retina. While not everyone who wears glasses or contacts is the right candidate for vision correction surgery, the majority of people qualif y for at least one of the following procedures.

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) — The first refractive surgery approved by the FDA, PRK, involves an ophthalmologist removing the cornea’s outer surface layer and using a laser to reshape the cornea into a new curvature fitting the prescription of the patient’s eye. PRK is generally associated with some post-procedure discomfort and a slightly longer recovery time than a more advanced option. But it’s often the best choice for patients requiring a high level of correction who have thin corneas or if the corneal shape requires the surgeon to be more structurally conservative.

Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) — The most popular refractive surgery, LASIK, hit the market in the late 90s. While it’s more invasive than PRK, LASIK delivers the same outcomes with quicker recovery and less discomfort. During LASIK, the surgeon creates a flap of outer corneal tissue and opens the flap to reach the cornea’s inside layers, which are reshaped with the laser. The flap is returned, and the patient experiences a quick return of vision with little discomfort. Again, not all patients qualify for LASIK. Small-Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) — The newest iteration of laser eye surgery for nearsightedness uses a very precise laser to create a disk-shaped piece of tissue inside the cornea that can be removed through a small incision without the need for a flap. It delivers similar vision correction as LASIK (but without the flap), so it’s less disruptive to the corneal nerves, and it can be a better option for people with dry eyes. It does, however, come with a slightly longer recovery period.

Ask your ophthalmologist to conduct a thorough and focused exam to determine whether you’re a good candidate for laser eye surgery and which option is best for you. You can expect to pay around $5,000 to cover the cost of the laser systems, the surgical team, and the cost of before and aftercare.

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homestead

CITY

s e re n i t y PRESTON HOLLOW PRIVACY INFLUENCED BY THE PAST

A RCHITECT

S PECHT A RCHI TECTS LA NDSCA PE A RCHITECT

HOCK ER DES I GN GROUP INTERIOR DESIG N

MAGNI K A LMA N DES I GN CONTRACTOR

S EB ASTI A N CONSTRUCTI ON PHOTOS

CAS EY DUNN

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homestead | CITY SERENITY

CONCRETE CHARACTER // The concrete walls in the Preston Hollow house were cast using custom-fabricated formwork that creates a corrugated appearance. “This technique, a staple of brutalist architecture from the 1960s and ‘70s, creates a play of shadows and pattern that changes throughout the day. Unlike the brutalist work from that era, however, the heavy walls here are countered by delicate steel columns, thin window frames, and the hovering cantilevered edges of the roof. The concrete is a grounding element that provides a contrast to the overall lightness of the spaces,” says Scott Specht, founder Specht Architects.

(PREVIOUS PAGE) MODERN TRADITIONS // Dallas has a long tradition of modern architecture that faded for decades and is now experiencing a resurgence. The design of Specht’s Preston house was driven by the desire to blur the lines between inside and outside while providing a sense of privacy and seclusion from the street and surrounding neighborhood. Its design is influenced by strategies common to classic Dallas modern homes of the ‘50s and ‘60s.

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Heavy cast-concrete walls extend from the interior of the house out into the landscape, breaking the “modern box” and creating courtyards that allow for a bright, nature-filled view from every room. This effect is complemented by the huge glass walls that define each space.

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homestead | CITY SERENITY

WATER WORKS // An “Impluvium” or opening in the center of the roof is modeled on those found in traditional Roman houses. This design feature allows rainwater to reach the courtyard garden and water collection area below.

The rainwater is then used for irrigation and other non-potable uses.

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homestead | CITY SERENITY

Flowing water plays a large part in the design as well.

Beginning at the entry, a narrow channel courses through the site and to the pool beyond. The stream is punctuated by a series of cascading terraces and a gentle waterfall near the main entry. At night, lighting within the water casts changing patterns on the adjacent textured concrete surfaces.

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W H AT T O C O N S I D E R W H E N P L A N N I N G A C U S T O M P O O L O R R E N OVAT I O N

BY AMANDA BLA IR

ith families spending more time at home over the past year, many homeowners are considering upgrading their outdoor spaces with a pool.

Some are building from scratch, while others are updating their existing pools. If you are thinking about installing a custom pool, you can get closer to this dream project with conscientious planning. If your route is renovating, a similar systematic approach can be helpful as well.

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homestead | DIVE IN

BUILDING BASICS Think about how you will use the pool. There are numerous reasons people want to install custom pools. They include exercise, recreation, physical therapy, and water safety instruction.

Focus on size and depth. For instance, if your focus is exercise, you will want a long section with parallel ends so that you can swim laps. Include a straight area of at least 25 yards and at least 4 feet deep if someone wants to train for competition. On the other hand, if your primary concern is recreation, the shape can be more creative.

Specify the location. Create a string outline of the perimeter of your future pool on the grass. Pay attention to how the sunlight and shade form in that area throughout the day.

Research pool pumps. The size of your pool will help determine how frequently you want to run the system.

Rega rd less, t he pu mp shou ld be st rong. You c a n perfect the duration and speed of operation with a variable-speed variety.

If you are renovating your pool, cosmetics are often the initial focus. However, you may want to consider updating the pool’s equipment too. When you bring in a contractor to renew your pool, discuss what it would cost to invest in an energy-efficient pool pump and filter. Also, consider a solar-powered heating system.

MAKE A SPLASH BY OPTIMIZING WATER AND EXTRAS According to Healthline, installing a saltwater pool (or converting, if renovating) can positively impact asthma and allergies. Consumers have also noted that it has a milder smell than a traditional chlorine system. Additionally, saltwater pools are touted for being easier to maintain.

The upfront cost of these systems is typically higher.

However, over time, you could make up some of that expense with reduced maintenance.

Saltwater pools are not the only option for replacing a chlorine system, though. Mineral pools are praised for being even gentler and easier to maintain than the saltwater variety.

Along with the choice of water, mull over what add-ons or amenities you might want to include — if building new, adding features could mean adjusting the pool location to accommodate your choices. Features such as bubblers, waterfalls, and lighting could be incorporated into your current plan. However, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and pizza ovens will require more forethought. Be sure to layout where you expect your spa to go as well.

A swimming pool project is a big decision, whether you are building new or renovating. It requires preliminary research for the best results. Once you have a better sense of what you want, you can start getting estimates.

Then adjust your dream installation or renovation to meet your budget.

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PROFILE Buying a home can be the single most meaningful investment you make over the course of your life. The home is the heart of the family, providing a backdrop to milestones, memories, and daily moments. Jay Cruz of Security National Mortgage Company (SNMC) wants clients to feel confident in the decision they make, so he strives to make the home buying process a breeze. ry,” says Jay, “We have programs that can help with the down payment and closing costs. We want to make this dream come true for you.”

Jay was born and raised in Texas and knows what it’s like to raise a family here.

He married his high school sweetheart and together they have two boys, Devin, who is 18, and 15-year-old Angel. Both boys play football, and weekends in the Cruz family are usually filled with football games, football practice—and more football games. “It’s a great feeling being on those sidelines and seeing my boys play the game they love,” says Jay.

WELCOME TO YOUR JOURNEY HOME

Jay’s clients have said they were shocked and delighted at how smoothly the lending process went once they found him.

Some had been waitlisted or turned away by other lenders before Jay happily took them on. These proud homeowners rave at how swiftly they arrived at their goal, and how Jay makes what can sometimes be a difficult process seem so easy.

LET SECURITY NATIONAL MORTGAGE COMPANY HELP

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

As a professional loan originator, Jay focuses on individual solutions to meet a cli-

ent’s unique needs according to their financial situation. SNMC offers great options for a wide variety of new loans as well as refinancing options and down payment assistance.

“I want to simplify the process of homeownership and help as many families as possible fulfill their dreams of owning a home,” Jay says. He prides himself on communicating clearly and openly with his clients. No question is too small, and Jay is always available with a prompt explanation.

It’s important to Jay that people know home ownership is an accessible goal.

“Some people believe you have to have excellent credit and a big down payment to

buy a home, but that’s not true,” he says. In most cases he and the team at SNMC can help clients with credit scores starting at 580. And the down payment? “Don’t wor-

Jay has been awarded Security National Mortgage Company’s Presidents Club award seven years running and was nominated to be among The National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professional’s Top 250 Mortgage Originators in the country in 2020, all for exceeding our clients’ expectations while providing world class service.

Call Jay today for a free consultation to find out how he can help you on your journey to a new home.

124 W. Main Street Mansfield, Texas 76063 (972) 533-4289 SNMC.com/lo/JayCruz

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Welcome To Your Journey Home

JAY CRUZ BRANCH MANAGER | NMLS #156646

DAVID AGUILAR LOAN OFFICER | NMLS #2037792

EMILIO VALLEJO JUNIOR PROCESSOR

At Security National Mortgage Company we give “You the Advantage” by focusing on solutions and satisfaction for each of our client’s unique situations. Whether you are looking for a new loan with great terms, or finding a better refinance solution, we will individually consult with you to ensure that we offer a full line of loan product solutions that best match your unique needs and financial situation. We believe in clear and effective communication with each of our clients throughout the entire business transaction and strive to build a relationship that continues long after your loan is closed. Our goal is to get you a great rate, save time, and eliminate worry so that you can focus on Turning Your New House into a HOME…

124 W. Main Street Mansfield, TX 76063 | 972-533-4289 NMLS Branch ID #2032872 Disclaimer: This is not a commitment to make a loan. Loans are subject to borrower and property qualifications. Contact loan originator listed for an accurate, personalized quote. Interest rates and program guidelines are subject to change without notice.

snmc.com/lo/jaycruz

CLEAN AND DECLUTTER Nobody wants to buy a house if it is filled with clutter, chaos, or crumbs. If you absolutely can’t part with your stuff, that’s ok. Instead of cramming items in closets and your garage, rent a storage unit to store your things for a few months. Then, do a complete deep-clean of the inside and outside of your house. Now is the time to scrub baseboards, polish kitchen cabinets, wash windows, touch-up paint on walls and trim, and wipe down bathrooms and countertops until they shine. It might be helpful to hire a professional to clean for you, at least for your carpets and hardwood floors.

UP YOUR CURB APPEAL There’s a reason Chip and Joanna Gaines from Fixer Upper always hid the front of their clients’ homes when revealing their newly remodeled space. First impressions make a huge difference. Freshen up the look of your home by painting your front door, trimming down your shrubs, and adding colorful, seasonal flowers to make it more welcoming. You can also pressure wash your front porch and add new house numbers. Every little thing can make a difference!

TONE DOWN YOUR PERSONALITY When you list your home, you aren’t just selling your property — you’re also selling hopes and dreams of a new future in this space. That’s why it’s important to tone down your personality. Realtor.com says to remove family photos, bold or colorful artwork, and unique furniture, then repaint the walls to neutral colors. You still want your space to be nicely decorated, but you should do it in a way that leaves room for the imagination.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO MAKE NEEDED UPDATES

BY SYDNI ELLIS

Putting a “For Sale” sign up in front of your house is a big decision (and an exciting one), but before you list it, there are a few things you should prepare. After all, you want to set yourself up for success and a higher selling price, right? Here are a few items to keep in mind as you get ready to put your house on the market.

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Dark cabinets, high pile carpet, and earth tones may have been in style once, but buyers today are looking for something fresh and modern in their new home.

Now is a great time to update the backsplash under your kitchen cabinets or replace faucets and doorknobs.

While you’re at it, don’t skip major repairs either. U.S. News & World Report says fixing a cracked foundation or replacing a roof now can end up saving you money in the long run.

TIME IT RIGHT According to Zillow.com, the leading real estate, and rental marketplace, the best time to sell a home is May 1 to May 15. That gives you a few months to get ready, so don’t delay.

Prepping your house to sell doesn’t have to be stressful.

With proper planning and a little patience, it’ll all be worth it!

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BY

RE AU D

H Y AS

Whether you are looking for a best friend for your kids or a fur-baby for you and your significant other to spoil, dogs will steal your heart! As much as we’d love to bring them all home, it’s important to know which breed will suit your family best before taking the plunge. Here are just a few of the many options available when looking for the right breed for your family’s needs.

Every animal is an individual and will behave according to its nature, but different breeds have unique temperaments. Start by reading about them to compare traits and narrow down what type of dog will be a good fit for your family. Once you have determined your potential furry family member, introduce him or her to the family as a group and one-on-one before making a final decision.

Puppies are often chosen for their cuteness factor and because they have time to grow with you, but there are a lot of lovely mature dogs in shelters, including purebreds and mixed breeds, that also need homes. The good thing about adopting an adult dog is that you might get a better idea of its developed personality.

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E

There are so many breeds to love, but no dog list would be complete without the Golden Retriever. Both energetic and gentle giants, retrievers are great companions for families with infants or small children. Golden Retrievers are extroverts and thrive around attention and engagement, therefore perfect for larger families. It is no surprise that they rank at the top of the list among service dogs as well. A family member with special needs of any age can find this dog’s patience and kind disposition comforting and helpful.

GOLDEN RETRIEVER

For families with older children or an outdoorsy streak, an Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler, is an excellent addition.

They are friendly, intelligent, and loyal to the people they know but have a rowdy side when it comes to playtime. Athletic and always in the mood to play, this is an excellent dog for active families ready to provide mental and physical stimulation to a pet. The breed may take a bit more work to train. However, this creates a great opportunity for older children to learn responsibility, patience, and time management.

BLUE HEELE R

The French Bulldog has a muscular, compact body and big personality.

Known for turning on the charm, Frenchies are relatively low energy but not total couch potatoes. A walk around the block and ball toss at the dog park is generally enough to keep them satiated. Sensitive, a bit stubborn, and amiable, they are a charming family addition that doesn’t require rigorous exercise or maintenance. Bonus points for them being a relatively quiet breed, although there are exceptions.

FR EN CH BU LL DO G

Basset Hounds are low maintenance, easy-going companions. Usually peaceful and laid-back, Basset Hounds can get along with children and adults of all ages. They are often food motivated and not as active as other breeds, though, with their hunting background, they do love ample room and time to roam safely. This also gives them a bit of an independent streak. Since they may be happy to lay about with their humans and snooze the day away, it is best to give them moderate exercise to stave off weight gain and health issues.

BASSET HOUND There are so many options and avenues for choosing your next family pet.

Remember to follow your heart and go with what feels best.

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COFFEE SPILLS ON CARPET

Blot generously with a paper towel.

Next, mix 1 Tbsp. white vinegar, 1 Tbsp. dish soap, and 2 cups water in a spray bottle and spritz all over the stain. Blot again with a dry towel.

OLIVE OIL ON CLOTHES

After dabbing the area with a dry paper towel, rub cornstarch or baking soda into the stain. Let sit for a few minutes to absorb the stain before wiping it away.

BLOOD STAINS ON LINENS

CLEANING CONCOCTIONS CREATE YOUR OWN SOLUTIONS TO TACKLE LIFE’S EVERYDAY SPILLS AND STAINS

BY SYDNI ELLIS Life’s spills, stains, dirt, grime, and dust happen, but what if you don’t have the perfect cleaners on hand when they do.

These do-it-yourself solutions made with ingredients you probably already have at home will help make cleaning up a breeze.

Immediately rinse with cold water.

Afterward, douse in hydrogen peroxide, then put it in the washing machine right away to lower the chance of it bleaching the clothes.

Repeat the process until you can’t see the stain.

DOG PEE ON THE COUCH, RUG, OR CARPET!

Our furry friends are adorable — until they leave a mess on the couch! Use a dry paper towel to soak up the liquid. Sprinkle baking soda all over the stain. You can tell it’s working if the baking soda turns yellow. Mix 1 part vinegar and 1 part water in a spray bottle and use it to clean and deodorize the area. Afterward, wipe up the residue with a paper towel, and run a vacuum over it to remove smaller clumps.

GREASE IN THE KITCHEN

Kitchen counters and cabinets collect greasy, sticky grime from everyday use, which you can combat with a little dish soap. Mix 1 part water, 1 part vinegar, and 3 to 5 drops of dish soap in a spray bottle. Spritz and let sit for a few minutes before wiping up.

CREATE YOUR OWN SPRAY CLEANERS For around-the-house cleaning, you can create your own spray cleaners with natural ingredients. Here are a few of our favorites:

GLASS CLEANER:

GoodHousekeeping.com offers this recipe. 2 cups water, ½ cup white or cider vinegar, ¼ cup rubbing alcohol, and 1 to 2 drops of orange essential oil. Combine in a spray bottle, then spritz on a cloth before cleaning mirrors or windows.

ALL-PURPOSE CLEANER:

Clean any hard surface with this all-purpose cleaner recipe from TheSpruce.com. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, and you’re ready to go. Optional: Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for an enjoyable smell.

DUSTER/FURNITURE CLEANER:

Keep dust at bay when you use this DIY dusting spray from WellnessMama.com. First, make orange-infused vinegar by adding the peel of one orange to a glass jar filled with vinegar. Cover and let stand for two weeks. Then, add ¼ cup orange vinegar, 1 cup water, 2 Tbsp. olive oil, 12 to 15 drops of lemon essential oil, and 5 drops of cedarwood essential oil to a spray bottle and shake well.

If you are unsure of how the surface you are cleaning will react, test the solution on a small, unnoticeable area first.

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GAME PLAN SUMMER VACATION PREPARATION AND BUDGETING TIPS Ah, summer! Warm weather, more hours of daylight, the kids are out of school, and you’re in relaxation mode. Here are a few tips and ideas to help you get started on planning a well-deserved summertime sojourn.

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AGREE ON A DESTINATION. Unless you’re traveling alone, you’ll need to find destinations where there’s a little something for everyone. Be prepared to negotiate and make a few concessions. Let’s say the adults want to head to a mountain retreat where they can hike, shop in boutiques, and relax, but the kids want to swim and bask in the sun. One solution is to book lodging at a hotel in the mountains with a resort-style pool or a nearby water park.

DETERMINE THE BEST WAY TO GET THERE. Some trips are within driving distance, but when they aren’t, start looking for the best flights now using helpful online tools, apps, and websites. Think about whether you’re OK with layovers or if you want direct flights only. Check out hotel and airfare bundling options. If you plan to use airline points, scheduling sooner rather than later may help you get the best point deal.

RESEARCH ACTIVITIES AND CREATE AN ITINERARY. Whether you enjoy super organized trips with most every detail mapped out or like to keep it open and flexible, this step is a must. Not only does it help ensure you experience the vacation you want, but it also gives you a sense of the expenses you’ll incur. For example, are you a DIYer who will tour historical sites on your own, or do you prefer a guided tour? Create a spreadsheet, make a list by day, or pencil things in on a calendar — whatever works best for you.

GET ORGANIZED. Even if you’re the most organized person, a few simple measures will help make your trip go smoothly. Print or download information such as hotel confirmations, tickets for activities, directions and addresses, and flight reservations, so you have everything at your fingertips. If traveling internationally, make sure your passport is valid and consider Global Entry, enabling you to skip long lines at U.S. customs when re-entering the United States. Equally important, check to see if the countries you’re visiting require a visa for entry, have any COVID-19 travel restrictions, and always check with the CDC to determine if you need vaccines before your trip.

The CDC categorizes vaccines into routine, recommended, and required.

STAY FLEXIBLE AND VIGILANT. We’re feeling more confident about planning travel in 2021, but keep in mind things can quickly change. A state or country that had relaxed COVID-19 restrictions may make them more stringent at any time. Be sure to understand hotel, airline, and tour cancellation policies. Look for those that are most flexible so you don’t end up paying for something you can’t use or be given credit versus getting your money back. Also, keep in mind that relaxing some family “rules” is usually required when you’re not in your typical routine.

There might be later bedtimes for children and maybe a few more sweet treats than usual, and that’s OK.

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adventure

THE ART OF

glamping A MODERN TWIST ON THE CAMPING EXPERIENCE

ove the idea of a camping trip if it weren’t for pitching a tent on the hard ground and willing yourself to rough it for a few nights? Try glamping, short for glamorous camping, instead. A modern twist on the camping experience, glamping offers an immersive experience off the beaten path where you can connect with nature without sacrificing touches of luxury and comfort.

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adventure | THE ART OF GLAMPING

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Glamping rental sites are popping up all over the place and are becoming more popular than ever. They offer an elevated camping experience that will appeal to everyone, including camping holdouts who prefer posh, imaginative accommodations.

Start by choosing destinations that appeal to you. Glamping sites include farms, islands, national parks, the beach, ponds and lakes, forested woodlands, mountain retreats, deserts, and the list goes on.

Depending on glamping sites at or near your destination, you can glamp in luxury yurts and tents perched on a platform instead of the bare ground. Options include vintage trailers, cabins or cottages, tipis, tricked out treehouses, and even luxury chuck wagons. Many glamping accommodations are equipped with wood-burning stoves or outdoor fire pits, curtains, lamps, rugs, mirrors, and comfy king-size beds with quality linens. Some even have heaters and air conditioning.

Have we piqued your interest? Wait until you check out the décor of luxe glamping accommodations. Many are the handiwork of interior designers, and the sky’s the limit. From exotic safari and Arabian Nights themes to nautical hideouts and cozy boho-chic retreats, you can find a glamp site that appeals to your personal sense of adventure.

Now that you’ve learned more about the benefits of glamping, go ahead and embark on a glamping adventure. Search online for glamping sites near and far. Visit websites like Glamping.com, which offers resources for consumers and owners alike. This site and others are like an Airbnb for glamping.

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adventure | THE ART OF GLAMPING

FIVE REASONS TO BECOME A GLAPMER 1. Creature Comforts. Compare crawling into a tent on the ground and sleeping in a bag or on a portable cot with walking into a tall, spacious tent or another type of glamping structure with a real bed with linens, electric lighting and lamps, rugs, and more. Many locations include a full en suite bathroom and a private deck and hot tub.

BECOME A DIY GLAMPER

2. Commune with Nature. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Spending time outdoors in the fresh air can do wonders for your health and your soul.

Instead of renting a camper at a glamping rental site, why not get your own glamper? If you’re budget-minded, buy a previously owned Airstream or an alternative from a reputable dealer, then go to town decorating it. Get creative and have fun. Create a whimsical theme or make it nostalgic. Add touches of home and customize your glamping lifestyle to reflect your personality. Accessorize your glamper with items like the Rolla Roster Marshmallow and Hog Dog Forks and dishware like the Camp Casual melamine dish set. If you can’t survive without an afternoon espresso, consider a portable espresso maker such as the Wacaco Minipresso.

3. Step into Another World. Glamping epitomizes the experiential vacation. Let your imagination soar as you immerse yourself in a world apart, far from the noise and typical tourist attractions usually associated with holiday trips.

ROLLAROASTER.COM // $15

5.Budget-Friendly. Sure, you can find high-end glamping rentals, but staying in a luxurious tent, yurt, teepee, or cabin doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, most glamping rentals tend to be less expensive than staying in a hotel or at a resort.

WACACO.COM/ // $50

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4. Create Real Lifetime Memories. A beach vacation at a seaside resort is fun but imagine a similar vacation in a luxury yurt next to the beach without all the distractions.

It sets the stage for creating some of your best life memories.

march 2021

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cuisine

PACK A punch M A K E YO U R P I C N I C A K N O C KO U T W I T H T H E S E TA S T Y T W I S T S O N C L A S S I C FINGER FOODS

BY M E L I S S A TATE

PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY MUFFINS MAKES: 12 MUFFINS | PREP TIME: 20 MINS. | BAKE TIME: 20 MINS. INGREDIENTS: 6 Tbsp. butter | ¾ cup peanut butter | 1¾ cups f lour | 1 tsp. baking soda | ½ tsp. salt | 1 egg | ½ cup brown sugar | 2 tsp. vanilla | ¼ cup milk | ½ cup sour cream | 1 cup strawberry preserves CRUMB TOPPING INGREDIENTS: 5 Tbsp. brown sugar | 5 Tbsp. white sugar | 1/8 tsp. cinnamon | 1/8 tsp. salt | ¼ cup butter, melted | ¾ cup f lour

TIPS AND TRICKS Save some of these muffins for a post picnic snack by warming them for 20 seconds in the microwave and enjoying with a big glass of cold milk.

DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 350° F. LINE muffin tin with 12 paper liners and spray liners with nonstick spray. PLACE butter and peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl and warm for 40 seconds.

STIR until combined. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt together. In a mixing bowl, beat egg, brown sugar, and vanilla. ADD butter and peanut butter mixture and beat until combined well. MIX in milk and sour cream. ADD dry ingredients and combine. FILL each muffin liner 3/4 full of batter. CREATE a well in the top of each muffin with the back of a tablespoon. FILL each well with 1 Tbsp. of strawberry preserves.

PREPARE crumble by whisking together the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. ADD the flour and combine until the mixture crumbles. SPRINKLE the crumble over the batter, covering the strawberry preserves. Warm remaining strawberry preserves in microwave for 15 seconds and drizzle over the crumble. BAKE for 20 to 24 minutes.

Recipe adapted from Dianne Morrisey

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cuisine | PACK A PUNCH

TIPS AND TRICKS

You can use any ingredients you want in these tortillas.

Another favorite for a quick weeknight dinner is taco meat, grated cheese, lettuce, and tomato.

HAM & CHEESE TORTILLA HACK M AK ES : 2 | PR E P TI M E : 5 M I N S . | C O O K TI M E : 3 M I N S .

INGREDIENTS: 2 large flour tortillas | 4 to 6 slices of deli ham | 4 slices of cheese | pickles | Everything Bagel seasoning | 1 Tbsp. butter | Mustard, for dipping DIRECTIONS: LAY one tortilla on a cutting board and cut from the middle of the tortilla down to the edge. Imagine the tortilla being divided into four quadrants (see photo.) PLACE the cheese slices on each side of the slice. PLACE ham in another quadrant and pickles in the last quadrant. SPRINKLE with Everything Bagel seasoning. FOLD the wrap starting from the bottom right quadrant. FOLD it up over the top right and then again over the top left and finally, down to the bottom left. HEAT 1 Tbsp. butter over medium heat. GRILL stuffed and folded tortilla on each side until golden brown, sprinkling with as much Everything Bagel as desired. REPEAT for the other tortilla. SERVE warm or pack up and serve room temp on a lovely picnic.

Inspired by Tik Tok Tortilla Wrap Hack

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cuisine | PACK A PUNCH

TIPS AND TRICKS

Rather than using parchment paper on your baking sheet, spray with nonstick cooking spray and bake directly on the sheet. This will give you a crispy bottom to contrast the soft top.

PHOTOS & FOOD BY

MELISSA TATE To follow her cooking adventures visit MelissaTateTX .com or find her on Instagram at

@MELISSATATETX

PIMENTO CHEESE SAUSAGE BALLS MAKES: 28 TO 32 BALLS | PREP TIME: 20 MINS. | COOK TIME: 18 TO 20 MINS. INGREDIENTS: 1 lb. ground pork breakfast sausage | 2 cups Bisquick | 1 cup prepared pimento cheese | 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 350° F. COMBINE all ingredients in a stand mixer. SHAPE mixture into approximately 30 balls about 1 inch in diameter and place on two baking sheets or bake one batch and reuse baking sheet for the next batch. BAKE for 18 to 20 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the bottom is sizzling a bit. REMOVE from baking sheet and serve.

Recipe by Melissa Tate

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march 2021

our picks | LIVING LIKES

SAY SÍ TO TUCCI

A SMATTERING

of stuff THAT’S MAKING US SAY “WE LIKE IT!” THIS MONTH

You may know him for his memorable performances in films like The Devil Wears Prada and The Hunger Games, but did you know Stanley Tucci broke the internet making a Negroni at home for his wife. Well, if you loved him in any or all of these things, you will fall innamorarsi with his new show Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy. As he travels to different regions in the country, Tucci blends food and current events, then adds a dash of history, creating the recipe for a perfect show.

SUNDAYS, 8PM ON CNN & ON HULU+

BY H E AT H E R WI T H E R S POON

MIX IT UP THIS MOTHER’S DAY Think outside of the vase this year and treat your mom to a monthly subscription from Succulents Box. If she’s new to the planting game, try one of their Beginner Kit Gift Boxes to get her started. The kit contains everything she will need to begin growing gorgeous succulents. $46 (BEGINNER KIT), SUCCULENTSBOX.COM

SWEET & SIMPLE A Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that is easily mixed up with three ingredients.

Ingredients: 1 oz. gin 1 oz. Campari 1 oz. sweet vermouth Garnish: orange peel Directions:

SPACE SAVING SPOUTS

Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth to a mixing glass or shaker filled with ice, and stir until well chilled.

Strain into a rocks glass filled with large ice cubes. Garnish with orange peel.

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Available in brass and emerald, these sleek watering cans from Modern Sprout are made of r ust-resistant stainless steel and are designed to fit on windowsills or shelves and feature a long spout for easy pouring.

Roll out the fun anywhere with this portable chess and checkers set from Pendleton.

$80, WESTELM.COM

$35, PENDLETON-USA.COM

PACK N’ PLAY

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GET A FREE ESTIMATE

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