Living Magazine June 2020 by Arlington Living Magazine

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JUNE 2020

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ARLINGTON / MANSFIELD / GRAND PRAIRIE

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WOMEN

REGENCY PAIN & THERAPY INSTITUTE CELEBRATES NEW MANSFIELD LOCATION.

mighty munchies

parent pieces

down memory lane

B I T ES F R O M T E X A S C O O KS

D AYS I N T H E L I F E

TA L ES F R O M T R AV E LS PA ST

WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR FINANCES

EXPERIENCE MATTERS!

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contents

| LIVING MAGAZINE

inside this issue JUNE 2020 | l e a d

features

GO ING SWIMMINGLY Suitable swimsuits for summer

T U RNING TO P D OLLA R Insider tips for selling your home

WHAT’S IN A NAM E? Why women remember them better

in every issue 12 PUBLISHER’S LETTER 14 SOCIAL CALENDAR 15 BEST BETS 16 TALK OF THE TOWN 18 PET CLUB 22 FRUIT OF THE VINE 74 LIVING LIKES

44 WELLNESS

50 AESTHETICS

56 HOMESTEAD

64 ADVENTURE

RISE OF THE ROBOTS LEADING THE WAY TO WELLNESS

HAIR FREE CARE FREE

SEASIDE SENSES

MORE SMILES WITH LESS STRESS

FRONT PORCH SITTIN’

GHOSTS OF TRAVELS PAST

june 2020

70 CUISINE HEATING UP!

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

letter from the p ublisher

publishing PUBLISHER Misty Daniels

Some blessings come into our lives that don’t seem obvious at the time. My husband was one of them. When God introduced us over five years ago, I had no idea the impact he would have on my life and the lives of my children and grandchildren. Raising three kids as a single mom didn’t allow for many of the “dad” benefits. Simple things like throwing the football, home depot outings, the backyard smoker cooking all weekend, and those sincere conversations with sage wisdom and advice weren’t the norm for years at our house. Although my children are grown adults now, I can see the impact having a dad around has had. He’s here to answer the questions I as mom would struggle to answer. How to treat the stubborn grass, how to negotiate a raise, the list goes on. My kids love and adore their stepdad and I couldn’t feel more blessed. A huge Happy Father’s Day to my husband. Thank you for stepping into a family of chaos with a smile and the biggest heart anyone could have. We love you.

contribution EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Landry, Anna Charles, LaRue

EDITOR Brandon Daiker

Novick, Meredith Knight

production

Lauren Medean, Diana Raines

ART DIRECTOR Kelsey Higham

community magazine group

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Van Ngo, Amelia Callies CLIENT SERVICES MANAGERS Jenefer Grady administration SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR Todd Collom, Don Beene OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Teresa May ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mary Phaneuf advertising/marketing/sales VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Scott Daniels sdaniels@livingmagazine.net ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Kami Anderson, kanderson@livingmagazine.net

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS

NORTH TEXAS MARKETS Rockwall/Rowlett/Royce City/ Frisco/Plano McKinney/Allen/Fairview Celina/Prosper Southlake/Colleyville/Trophy Club/ Grapevine Coppell/North Irving/Las Colinas Keller/North Richland Hills N. Richardson/Murphy/Sachse/Wylie Flower Mound/Highland Village/Argyle Arlington/Mansfield/Grand Prairie SOUTH TEXAS MARKETS The Woodlands/Shenandoah/ Magnolia Spring/Champions/Klein Cypress/Jersey Village/Sugar Land/ Cooperfield/Missouri City Katy / Fulshear Memorial/The Villages/West Houston LIVING MAGAZINE

DIRECTOR OF BRAND MARKETING Bruce Perlstein SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM MANAGEMENT Lindsay Clark, lclark@livingmagazine.net DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST Kat Curling

PUBLISHING PARTNERS 4101 W. Green Oaks, #305 - 594 Arlington, TX 76016 682-556-1246 • Fax: 817-572-3232 For advertising/distribution information call 682-556-1246.

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And to all the fathers out there, Happy Father’s Day!

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MISTY DANIELS, OWNER/PUBLISHER mdaniels@livingmagazine.net 682-556-1246 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 with our the permission in writing from the publisher.

letters from

O U R M AYO R S mayor

DAVID COOK

This has been an unusual time. This public health emergency has changed our normal routines. Getting back to those routines in today’s environment will be challenging, but I have no doubt we are up to it. As we reopen Mansﬁeld, I want thank people who have been working on the front lines, dedicating themselves to serving our community during this emergency: • Mansﬁeld ISD administrators and teachers, who restructured teaching plans, rescheduled events and reorganized meal programs, all to take care of students during this unprecedented time; • City employees who have remained on the job to ensure residents have access to essential services and have even developed unique and creative ways to

mayor

provide programming and events; • Finally, healthcare professionals for providing the best care possible to those in need, often working in difficult circumstances and at great personal risk. During difficult times, Mansfield has always stepped up to help, whether it was assisting those in our city or elsewhere. This crisis was no exception. We truly were all in this together, and we will be together as we move forward.

RON JENSEN

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., in June by appointment, Grand Prairie will offer a free drive-through COVID-19 test site for Grand Prairie residents. Call 1-888-776-5252 for an appointment. As we normalize from the pandemic and get into the swing of summer, I encourage you to shop, eat and staycation near home to boost our local economy. Our tourist attractions are open or re-opening following applicable state and county guidelines. Epic Waters Indoor Water Park is perfect fun out of the sun this summer. The Main Event had to close for COVID-19 almost immediately after opening earlier this year and would love to be a main event on your to-do calendar when they re-open. From camping to glamping, picnics to beaches, fishing to skiing, Lake Joe Pool is your local lake for getaway play. The Grand Prairie Premium Outlet Mall now offers Ralph Lauren and Bath and Body Works stores in addition to its 90 other high-end stores.

mayor

M A N S F IE L D

GRAND PRAIRIE Stop by IKEA and Living Spaces for ultimate indoor and outdoor home decor. Traders Village is a treasure hunters’ paradise; and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not/Louis Tussaud’s Palace of Wax also oﬀers a 7D moving theater, laser race and mirror maze. AirHogs minor league baseball games (which should begin in July) are major entertainment, while next-door Lone Star Park began racing late May. At the writing of this letter, the Theater at Grand Prairie, historic Uptown Theater and the Epic’s Texas Trust Theater were still dark, but hoped to light up late summer, early fall. Our many local restaurants look forward to feeding you dine-in, or carry-out. As you get out and about, stay safe, observe social distancing, and wear your face mask as needed. Be sure to check venue websites for current hours and guidelines. Live Life Grand,

JEFF WILLIAMS

What a difference a couple months can make. I hope you and your family are staying safe. I want to thank everyone who’s taken the Covid 19 threat seriously and done what they can to minimize its impact. It’s been heartening to see so many citizens unselfishly working to do their part for our community. I also want to send out a huge thanks to all our healthcare workers and first responders who’ve put themselves in harm’s way to care for Covid patients. You are the best of the best! Infectious diseases are nothing new to the City of Arlington. Over the years, concerns about the spread of various viruses have impacted the U.S. and the City of Arlington Fire Department has planned for and responded to those outbreaks. Throughout the Covid crisis, the Fire Department’s Office of Emergency Management has remained in communication with Tarrant County Public

A R L IN GTON Health, the Texas Department of State Health Services, the CDC, the Arlington medical community, and other partners to monitor this evolving situation. As we consider safe and sensible ways to begin reopening our economy, the City of Arlington website at ArlingtonTX.gov is updating resources that may be helpful to our small businesses. We recognize how vital you are to our economy and will continue to update as information and resources becomes available. Citizens can check in with the site to see what businesses and services are open and to ﬁnd out about drive-through testing sites. I know this community. We’ve pulled together in trying times before. We’ll get through this together if we remain ARLINGTON STRONG!

june 2020

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community | SOCIAL CALENDAR

ongoing COVID-19 SUPPORT LINE & RESOURCES Experiencing anxiety, sadness, isolation, loss of employment, or financial burdens? Maybe you or someone you know just needs to talk to someone or needs help finding assistance. Texans Recovering Together is a statewide crisis counselling program providing immediate relief and support to those affected by Covid-19. Call the support line 24/7 at 833-986-1919. T h e H a r r i s C e n t e r. o rg / C O V I D - 1 9 - S u p p o r t - L i n e a n d - R e s o u rc e s

JUNE

JUNE 13

LONE STAR PARK

KAYAKING 101

Catch the fun and excitement of world-class Thoroughbred horse racing. Live racing on dirt and grass surfaces. The Grandstand is a seven-level, glass-enclosed, climate-controlled building with penthouse suites, terraced track-side dining room, box seats and outdoor seating. Watch Simulcast horse racing from around the country at the Bar & Book. Bet you’ll have a blast! Visit website for schedule. 1000 Lone Star Parkway.

Go out in dual-seated kayaks along the creek on Joe Pool Lake. Participants will enjoy a scenic paddle looking for wildlife and plants with a naturalist. We will also instruct on safety, proper techniques, and an eco-friendly approach to paddle. Each child ages 7-17 years must be accompanied by an adult on the tour. 7:30am-9:30am. $24/person, BYOM: $15/person, $2 discount for early registration, $2 discount with MAC card. Britton Park, 429 E. Seeton Rd. Pre-registration required. Call 817-728-3680.

G ra n d P ra i r i e

M a n sf i e l d

L O N ESTA R PA R K . C O M J U N E 8 - J U LY 3 0

Viridian/Arlington

JUNE 13 AND 27

Have fun on the water learning the fundamentals of sailing. Learn the important parts of sailboats, wind strength, wind direction and much more. Supervised handon lessons will create lasting memories, increase self-confidence and make new friends. Visit our website for schedule and detailed information. V I R I D I A N SA I L I N G . C O M

MOBILE PET ADOPTION EVENT Arlington

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.

WEEKS OF JUNE 8, 15, 22

SUMMER AT THE SCIENCE CENTER R i v e r Le g a c y P a r k

Join us for a week of engaging, handson opportunities to explore our natural world through a variety of age-appropriate classes and programs for ages 3 to 8th grade. Classes meet from 9 am to noon; or 9am to 3pm, depending on age and class. After Care is available from 3 pm to 4 pm. Call 817-860-6752 ext. 102. R I V E R L EG A CY. O R G

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

FATHER SON HOOPS DAY

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

Dads and their sons are invited to hoop it up for a morning of basketball. Our main focus is to find the best father and son combo and creating memories to last a lifetime. The event will include a 3 point challenge and 2 vs. 2 timed games. Pre-registration required, space is limited. 10am-12pm. $5. All ages. Hugh Smith Rec Center. N AT U R A L LY F U N . O R G JUNE 21

LEARN TO SAIL

JUNE 20

| june 2020

JUNE 20

FATHER’S DAY SWIM

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

Dad’s receive free admission at all City of Arlington pools with purchase of child’s admission.

JUNE 27

LOYD PARK PARTY G ra n d P ra i r i e

Fun begins at 5pm. Food, drinks and inflatables. Movie on the beach at 9pm. Live music at 7pm. 3401 Ragland Rd.

SWIM SAFE

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

Child-focused water safety initiative. City of Arlington Aquatics with the help of Mid-Cities Arlington Swimming is spreading the word about water safety by offering a morning of free water safety lessons and activities. 9-11:30am. Allen Bolden Pool, 2800 S. Center St.

see more e vents in your area on LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

our picks | BEST BETS

P RE M I E RI NG IN J UN E

JUNE 25 // THE TWILIGHT ZONE CBS ALL ACCESS

Narrated by director Jordan Peele, the newest revival of Rod Serling’s classic 1959 anthology series arrives for its second se a son t h i s mont h on CB S ’ streaming service. Set to feature ten new episodes, the series is sure to return us to the fifth dimension, one of imagination that we call The Twilight Zone.

TH I S M O NTH ’ S M US I C

TH IS M ONTH I N M OV IE HI STORY

JUNE 25, 1993 // SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE MEG RYAN, TOM HANKS DIR. NORA EPHRON (YOU’VE GOT MAIL) Perhaps the defining romcom of the 1990s feels both timeless and dated in the year 2020, being based on the improbable machinations of beginning a relationship via radio show, snail mail, and vague plans to meet on the Empire State building. But the contrivances, now quaint, make the fact that it all works out seem more hard-earned and satisfying than ever—and it’s impossible not to be won over by the charismatic performances of Hanks and Ryan 27 years later.

WHAT TO R EA D

JUNE 16 // THE NEW ONE PAINFULLY TRUE STORIES FROM A RELUCTANT DAD BY MIKE BIRBIGLIA WITH POEMS BY J. HOPE STEIN

JUNE 12 // NORAH JONES PICK ME UP OFF THE FLOOR

JUNE 19 // BOB DYLAN ROUGH AND ROWDY WAYS

JUNE 19 // THE NATIONAL

With laugh-out-loud funny parenting observations, the New York Timesbestselling author and award-winning comedian delivers a book (punctuated by poetry written by his wife, as she navigated the same rocky shores of new parenthood) that is perfect for anyone who has ever raised a child, been a child, or refuses to stop acting like one.

HIGH VIOLET [10TH ANNIVERSARY EXPANDED EDITION]

JUNE 26 // KHRUANGBIN MORDECHAI

Imagery from The Twilight Zone (2020), CBS. Movie poster from Sleepless in Seattle (1993), Columbia/Tri-Star. Book cover from The New One (2020) by Mike Birbiglia and J. Hope Stein, Hatchette/Grand Central Publishing, with description excerpt from publisher. Album covers and all other materials are presented for non-commercial illustrative purposes.

june 2020

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community | TALK OF THE TOWN

INNOVATIVE NEW PARTNERSHIP G R A N D P R A I R I E I S D T E A M S U P W I T H G R A N D P R A I R I E P U B L I C L I B R A R Y S Y ST E M TO M O D E R N I Z E R E A D I N G AND LITERACY THROUGH EBOOKS AND E-AUDIOBOOKS

N THIS MOBILE AGE, technology has become increasingly valuable

in supporting new generations of lifelong learners and readers. Now, Grand Prairie Independent School District (ISD) and Grand Prairie Public Library System have formed an innovative new partnership using ebooks and e-audiobooks to increase access to more reading materials for students. This unique collaboration strives to promote literacy and digital learning by combining the schools’ and the library’s digital reading resources in one app. As a result, students learn anytime, anywhere because of the convenience, ease of reading on-the-go and the inherent popularity of technology. The school-library partnership provides safe access to thousands of age-appropriate titles for students’ use inside the classroom, at home and anywhere 24/7. Through Sora, the new student reading app for Grand Prairie ISD, students can borrow the school’s collection of classroom and pleasure reading, and also access Grand Prairie Public Library System’s juvenile and young adult digital collection. In addition, Sora supports teachers by offering education-specific tools like achievements, exportable notes, and reading progress that encourage individualized learning. “Grand Prairie ISD is thrilled to announce a partnership with our GP Public Libraries,” said Kathy Seybert, Coordinator of Instructional Media at Grand Prairie ISD. “Our students can now use the Sora app to easily connect their school and public library. This partnership means our students can read even more ebooks and audiobooks than ever before. The Sora app has created a one-stop shop for our students to become avid, life-long readers. Read an eBook today to discover new adventures.” “We’ve long enjoyed a great partnership with GPISD in our joint goal to improve early literacy,” said Grand Prairie Library Director Amy Sprinkles. “This is a leap forward in furthering that objective. Our ebooks have become more and more popular, and parents love being able to stock up on books without a late-night trip to the library. Kids get excited about reading when they can choose their own books, with their favorite characters. The Library has long supported our local students with programs, study materials and online tutoring, and now we’re thrilled to join GPISD and consolidate our ebooks into a shared, dynamic collection of hand-picked materials, available 24/7.”

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| june 2020

THE SORA APP WAS NAMED ONE OF TIME’S BEST INVENTIONS 2019. TO LEARN MORE, VISIT MEET.SORAAPP.COM AND MEET.LIBBYAPP.COM

ARLINGTON/MANSFIELD

H-E-B AWARDS TEXAS EDUCATORS

T ITOSVO DKA .C OM

H-E-B’s annual Excellence in Education awards were announced in May, honoring teachers, schools, districts, and school boards across the state with cash prizes and grants in celebration of National Teacher Appreciation Week. Since 2002, the awards have given more than $12 million to dedicated educators across the state. Winners this year span the state from San Antonio to Plano to Corpus Chrisi. The winners were recognized in a virtual “Toast to Texas Teachers” presentation featuring appearances by Matthew McConaughey and Eva Longoria. For a complete list of winners, head to NEWSROOM.HEB.COM.

TEXAS DRINK MAKER MAKES GOOD

IN THE LEAD

Texas Vodka brand Tito’s brings some good news to the fore thanks to a few grants that will benefit COVID-19 research--a $1 million gift to the Baylor College of Medicine for vaccine research among them. “We’re proud to help facilitate some of the inspiring and necessary work folks are doing to make such an impactful difference in the lives of so many,” the company said in a statement on their website. $2.5 million and $400K grants have also been announced for pandemic modeling and ventilator production to The University of Texas. DISCOVERYGREEN.COM/ROLLERRINK.

Learn about Living Magazine’s 2020 Leading Women by heading to LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET this month. These inspirational stories of community leaders who are making a difference in their neighborhoods, businesses, and families might be just what you’re looking for!

june 2020

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our picks | PET CLUB

PET CLUB Lola “Lola is super cute and loves to take a seat on the patio.” - KAT C.

SAY WHAT? Though kangaroos eventually get pretty huge and strong, newborn kangaroos are only the size of a lima bean.

PET TRIVIA QUESTION! ONE OF THE FOLLOWING FACTS IS INCORRECT. WHICH ONE?

A) Bearded dragons are carnivores

Daenerys

B) The phrase raining “cats and dogs” is from the Greek “cata doxa,” meaning “contrary to reason”

“My bearded dragon Daenerys can frequently be seen striking a majestic pose.”

C) Dogs are the leading pet in the U.S., with more than 50 million households owning one

- JENNIFER B.

D) Hummingbirds are the only bird who can fly backwards

Halo “Halo likes to go crazy playing with crinkled paper and her best friend is our black lab Zoie” - AMELIA C.

PET CLUB MEMBERS Living Pet Club members are automatically entered to win our frequent pet-related giveaways! To join the club, send your pet’s name, your name, your address, and a clear photo of your pet to pets@livingmagazine.net or visit LivingMagazine.net/pet-club. They might just turn up in a future issue of Living! PETS@LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

(A: Bearded dragons actually eat almost anything they can get their hands on—insects, small rodents, leafy plants… and even other lizards.)

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| june 2020

After the Long Hot Dog Days of Summer, we could use some treats!!!

Visit our Arlington and Mansfield locations to find a selection of treats that can only be found in our bakeries – because they’re fresh-baked on-site by real pastry chefs who use simple, healthy, and whole some ingredients. Check out our playful exclusive seasonal treats, gourmet dog pastries, including our famous Pupcakes®, and one-of-a-kind canine cakes you can have personalized for your pup’s special occasion. With Three Dog Bakery, you can make their birthday, adoption day, training graduation day or any day special. Because who says you need to have a reason to spoil your dog? 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!

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

North Arlington • 817 E. Lamar Blvd. Mansfield • 3300 E. Broad Street Ste 142 817-795-3135 • ThreeDog.com Follow us:

june 2020

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ON THE COVER

ARLINGTON PAIN & THERAPY BECOMES REGENCY PAIN & THERAPY INSTITUTE NEW FACILITY, ENHANCED SERVICES, SAME DEDICATED PROVIDERS AND EXCEPTIONAL CARE BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

rom its inception, Arlington Pain & Therapy has sought to answer these questions— what’s best for our patients; what’s the absolute most we can provide them; how can we improve their quality of daily life? To answer those queries, they brought together providers from many backgrounds and disciplines to collaborate with each other and partner with patients and their families to: • decrease their patients’ pain • increase their productivity • minimize their reliance on medication • maximize their physical activity • improve their quality of life As the practice has grown, thousands of Mansfield and Arlington residents—and those from far outside our area—have found their way to an Arlington Pain & Therapy location where they received multidisciplinary care with an emphasis on patient education and empowerment. In their continuing effort to provide the highest standards of care and service for t heir pat ient s, A rling ton Pa in &

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| june 2020

Therapy providers have undertaken an ex tensive expansion to br ing all the services their patients need under one roof, in a beautiful new 20,000-squarefoot, state-of-the-art facility that will now include an on-site procedure suite, highend physical therapy facility, and muchneeded cardiac rehab services. The new facility comes with a new name—Regency Pain & Therapy Institute.

“ We strive to provi d e co m pass i o n ate c a re to a l l pati e nts , to ass i st th e m i n l ivi n g a h e a lthy prod u ctive l ife —tre ati n g th e wh o le pe rso n, not j u st th e i r sym pto m s . O u r new M a n sfi e l d fac i l ity wi l l a l low u s to d o th at eve n bette r.”

JASON BUTLER, MD

MARK DIRNBERGER, DO

THOMAS HONG, DO

RONNY SCHWEYHER

“ We ’ve u n d e rta ke n exte n s ive rese a rc h i nto eve ryth i n g a pati e nt ne e ds to re cove r afte r a c a rd i ac eve nt a n d preve nt a re cu rre nce,” s a i d Re ge ncy Pa rtne r, Ro n ny Sc hweyh e r. “It’s a bout m u c h m o re th a n wa l ki n g o n a tre a d m i l l. It’s a bout te ac h i n g pati e nts to le a d h e a rt- h e a lthy l ives .” “ T he larger facilit y w ill prov ide our patients with access to all our providers under one roof and will allow providers to collaborate with one another on what is best for our patients,” said Jason Butler, M.D. “It will allow us not only to offer all aspects of pain management and physical therapy, but to grow the practice and add other services our patients might need.” “We are open to seeing you for all your musculoskeletal needs.” Dr. Butler said. “All patients are welcome to contact us directly. We do not require a referral for evaluation or treatment; but if your insurance requires one, we will work with your primary care doctor to obtain it.”

PAIN MANAGEMENT The new facility will provide even more opportunities for providers to collaborate on the optimum combination of medications, physical therapy, injections/ procedures, and surgeries to best serve patients in need of pain management. Your care will begin with a thorough physical exam and a detailed history of your past care and symptoms. Once a diagnosis has been compiled, you and your doctor will work together on an individualized treatment plan tailored to your symptoms and lifest yle, always beg inning w ith the most conservative measures before considering medication or surgery. Of course, when a patient is str uggling to work, experiencing severe pain, or decreased quality of life, treatment plans can be accelerated. “Whether you’ve been injured in a car accident or on the job, sustained a sports injury, or are living with a degenerative condition, our goal is to help improve

your overall quality of life by reducing the burden of the physical and emotional aspects of pain,” Dr. Butler said. “We strive to provide compassionate care to all patients, to assist them in living a healthy productive life—treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. Our new Mansfield facility will allow us to do that even better.”

ON-SITE PROCEDURE SUITE Not only w ill the new location allow patients closer proximity to hospitals and surgery centers, should they require surgery, but the new on-site procedure suite will accommodate less-invasive procedures under local anesthesia at a fraction of the cost. “We are investing in the newest state-of-the-art equipment to provide you the same results that you would get if performed in the surgery center or hospital.”

exercise physiologists will collaborate on individualized patient plans. Cooks w i l l per for m live hea lt hy cook ing demonstrations and dieticians will teach lessons in deciphering food labels and making healthy food choices. Patients will be provided with medical weight-loss advice, when necessary, and counselors will be available to discuss the traumatic effects of a cardiac event. Phy s i c a l t h e r ap i s t s w i l l wor k w it h cardiac patients to get them stretching and moving, as they’re ready to do so. Patients’ private cardiologists will be kept abreast, in real time, of their patients’ care and because the program works within Medicare guidelines, patients with Medicare can not be denied coverage. “The new cardiac rehab program is about offering our patients longevity and quality of life,” Ronny said.

S TAT E - O F -T H E - A R T I N T E N S I V E CARDIAC REHAB Those ser vices will include a cardiac rehab prog ram unlike any thing else offered in this area. “We’ve undertaken extensive research into ever y thing a patient needs to recover after a cardiac event and prevent a recurrence,” said Regency Partner, Ronny Schweyher. “It’s about much more than walk ing on a treadmill. It’s about teaching patients to lead heart-healthy lives.” The program includes a fully automated classroom where patient s and t heir families can be educated about lifestyle changes t hey need to ma ke. A team including registered dieticians, nurses, physical therapists, cardiologists, and

CONTACT 74 REGENCY PARKWAY MANSFIELD, TX 76063 (817) 419-6111 PAINANDTHERAPY.COM

june 2020

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community | FRUIT OF THE VINE

N O T T O w or r y UNPRECEDENTED TIME IN OUR MODERN WORLD BY B R OC JA H N KE

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| june 2020

AS FAR BACK AS I CAN REMEMBER, worry has

12:2). If somehow I could find a better way

accompanied me like an uninvited friend

of shaping my thoughts, then maybe worry

that continually misses the social cues

wouldn’t have so much power.

“GOD, GRANT ME THE SERENITY

that it’s time to go. In college I worried

TO ACCEPT THE THINGS I

that I would never get a job after school,

CANNOT CHANGE,

that I would never find someone to love,

THE COURAGE TO CHANGE

myself. I still worry. Whenever I get called

THE THINGS I CAN, AND

into the boss’s office, my first thought is

and that I would never be at peace with

that I have done something wrong and the

THE WISDOM TO KNOW

hammer is about to come down. I worry

THE DIFFERENCE.

whenever the house doesn’t feel warm

LIVING ONE DAY AT A TIME, ENJOYING ONE MOMENT AT A TIME; ACCEPTING HARDSHIP AS A PATHWAY TO PEACE; TAKING, AS JESUS DID, THIS SINFUL WORLD AS IT IS, NOT AS I WOULD HAVE IT; TRUSTING THAT YOU WILL MAKE ALL THINGS RIGHT IF I SURRENDER TO YOUR WILL; SO THAT I MAY BE REASONABLY HAPPY IN THIS LIFE AND SUPREMELY HAPPY WITH YOU FOREVER IN THE NEXT.”

enough because obviously the heater has

your podcasts.

truths, then it seems like I can handle whatever comes my way. Read Matthew 6:25-34 for my full perspective.

about keeping my mind focused on the

is time to leave.

right things in the midst of things that are

And now, here comes an unprecedented

out of my control.

time in our modern world. COVID-19 is

If you’re worried during this uncertain

spreading across our globe, the future

time, you’re not alone. However, we most

is uncertain, and worry is no longer the

definitely need to change our thinking

friend that stays too long—it is the friend

patterns to get through this. Here are some

that wants to move in and sleep on the

things to try. Go on a walk and look at the

couch “just for a few days.”

birds and trees and remember the words

Several years ago I started to realize that I was not a broken human being because of my worry, but that I was a human being in need of some new guidance, a human being in need of some new behavioral patterns, and a human being in need of way of thinking about things, because

of Matthew 6. Start saying some prayers of thanksgiving (all the blessings you see around you). Listen to more worship or uplifting music (music has great power to direct our brains). Do something nice for another human being (it’s amazing how powerful that can be in our battle against worry). And limit your news and social

the current model was not as effective as

media consumption.

I hoped it would be.

Worry may not pick up on the cue that it is

Admittedly, I have always been a theol-

time to leave, but we can lessen its effect

ogy junkie. I love to study how people

on our lives. Finally, make this prayer of

throughout history have thought about

serenity a daily part of your life as you put

God. Recently, in conjunction with my

our focus on helpful things:

could say I am now a “psycho-theology”

podcast, available wherever you get

our needs. If I can keep my focus on those

world so that nothing goes wrong—it’s

Pastor at Hope Fellowship in the

the co-host of the Mindful Marriage

is compassionate, and God is aware of

just doesn’t grab onto those hints that it

a psychology junkie as well. I guess you

all hope during this time. Broc is also

is ever-present, God is all knowing, God

repair on our hands. As you can see, worry

theological brain, I have become sort of

Fellowship is committed to giving us

this: God is faithful, God is powerful, God

So my battle is not trying to control my

Broc is the Lead Care & Support Frisco and McKinney area. Hope

of God and worry sounds something like

gone out and now we’ll have an expensive

a new perspective on life. I needed a new

Amen

In my opinion, a proper understanding

junkie. Wait, that may not be a great term to describe me… but for the sake of time, let’s go with it.

“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time, enjoying one moment at a time; accepting hardship as a path-

In that pursuit, I have become fascinated

way to peace; taking, as Jesus did, this

with cognitive behavioral therapy. In

sinful world as it is, not as I would have

very simple terms, if you can change the

it; trusting that You will make all things

thoughts in your brain, then you have a great

right if I surrender to Your will; so that I

chance of changing your behavior. I believe

may be reasonably happy in this life and

the Bible puts it this way. “Be transformed

supremely happy with You forever in the

by the renewing of your mind” (Romans

next.” Amen.

june 2020

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leading

WOMEN june 2020

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SPEC IAL S EC T IO N

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T / P H OTO S BY L A U R E N M A R I E M E D E A N

DONNA J. SMIEDT AND DESARAY R MUMA Th e Fa mi ly La w Firm of Donna J. S m i e dt Family law has been Donna Smiedt’s specialty—and her passion—for over thirty years. During that time, her firm has become the go-to place in our area for complex family law litigation, including divorce, property division, adoption, child support, paternity, and post-divorce modification. A good thing got even better when Donna welcomed aboard a dynamic, young attorney named Desaray Muma. As Donna relates, “Desaray came to work for me, four years ago, after working for a colleague of mine who was leaving private practice to become a professor. I began tasking her with research and briefs, which she promptly and expertly returned to me, no questions asked. I found her to be a dedicated and intelligent young lawyer. I started her training by having her take on uncontested cases and appear at the least contested or least challenging hearings, to gain experience. She performed flawlessly. As her confidence level and knowledge of family law grew, I dragged her along to watch and learn as I tried the more complex and high-conflict family law cases that are my specialty. One day, in the judge’s chambers, I was arguing a fairly specialized area of the family code on a tricky enforcement case with several hundreds of thousands of dollars at stake, against a very seasoned family law attorney. We were jabbing back and forth, when suddenly, a strange voice spoke up with an incredibly lucid and compelling statement regarding my client’s case. The room fell silent and the judge asked, ‘And who are you?’ Desaray said, ‘I’m Desaray Muma, Ms. Smiedt’s associate attorney.’ The judge said, ‘Young lady, I believe you’re correct. That’s my ruling.’ And Desaray Muma, Attorney at Law had arrived. She’d come into her own. And I couldn’t have been prouder!” “When I began as a younger attorney, I aspired to have the confidence and tenacity I saw in Donna,” Desaray said. “She took me under her wing and

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| june 2020

has played a huge role in me becoming the attorney I am today. I’ve gained invaluable experience in all areas of family law including divorces, child custody battles, adoptions, child support, and Child Protective Services litigation.” Desaray’s favorite cases are those involving the collaborative law process. “This involves a series of meetings outside of court focused on settlement from the beginning of the case, allowing families to have a customized process and control over their case,” Desaray said. “Collaborative law gives families the right to make decisions for their children and sets parents up for future success in co-parenting.” A hallmark of Donna’s practice has always been understanding the emotional toll litigation can take. For 30 plus years, she’s guided her clients deftly through the legal aspects of the process but also the more personal ones, proffering advice on how best to navigate the emotional minefields of family law and easing transitions for everyone in the family, including children, who often struggle the most with the adjustments. “The more information I have, the better I can present options to them,” she said. “The more informed I keep them, throughout the proceedings, the less stressful it will be for them. Total honesty between my client and myself is the best way to get the desired results.” Those efforts have been recognized by a Fort Worth Top Attorney award, as well as being voted Family Law Attorney of the Year in Arlington no less than seven times. Desaray agrees, “As an attorney and in my personal life, I abide by ‘my word is my bond’,” she said. “Nothing is more important to me than integrity.” Another welcome addition to the firm is Desaray’s rescue dog, Baxter. “He’s a Maltese mix—a little dog with a big personality,” she said. “He comes to work with me every day, greets clients, and trots back into

“ T H E M O R E I N FO R M E D I K E E P T H E M , THROUGHOUT THE PROCEEDINGS, THE LESS S T R E S S F U L I T W I L L B E FO R T H E M . T O TA L H O N E S T Y B E T W E E N M Y C L I E N T A N D M YS E L F I S T H E B E S T W AY T O G E T T H E D E S I R E D R E S U LT S . ” my office, while I meet with them. We call him our ‘divorce therapy dog’ because of his calming effect on people.” Last year, the firm fell on challenging times when Donna suffered an injury that caused her to take a lengthy medical leave. “As I worked from home following surgery, Desaray took on many of my cases as well as keeping up with her own busy caseload,” Donna said. “Without me even asking, she assumed more responsibility at the firm and showed me she was ready and able to efficiently manage all her own cases—and some of mine— with the excellence to which my clients have become accustomed. If not for her, the firm I’ve built through family sacrifice, personal grit, and a desire to provide the best legal services to our community could have been in serious jeopardy.” Donna decided to make Desaray the firm’s first non-equity partner. “Not only is she an awesome lawyer in the courtroom as well as in

the collaborative practice of family law, she’s proven to have the ability to manage employees and to interview, hire, and train many of our spectacular support staff,” Donna said. “We’ve grown the firm to include a senior litigation lawyer, Michael A. Munoz, with almost 15 years of family law experience as well as amazing paralegals, legal assistants, office manager, receptionist, and chief financial officer, to provide the best possible front and back office service to our clients as Arlington and Mansfield’s fullservice family law firm.” “I’ve had the privilege to watch Desaray blossom into the brilliant, beautiful, young lawyer and businesswoman she is today—a proficient attorney, confident in her own skills,” Donna said. “That’s important in the fast pace of the Tarrant County Courthouse. She’s garnered the respect of her opposing counsel and the jurists before whom she regularly practices. I feel confident of an excellent future for both of us in this endeavor we love.”

“WE’VE GROWN THE FIRM TO INCLUDE A SENIOR L I T I G AT I O N L AW Y E R , M I C H A E L A. MUNOZ, WITH ALMOST 15 YEARS O F FA M I LY L A W EXPERIENCE AS WELL AS AMAZING PA R A L E G A L S , LEGAL A S S I S TA N T S , OFFICE MANAGER, R E C E P T I O N I S T, AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, TO PROVIDE THE BEST POSSIBLE FRONT AND BACK OFFICE SERVICE TO OUR CLIENTS AS ARLINGTON AND MANSFIELD’S FULL-SERVICE FA M I LY L A W F I R M . ”

CONTACT 3216 WEST ARKANSAS LANE ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76016

(817)-572-9900 ARLINGTONDIVORCES.COM

june 2020

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SPEC IAL S EC T IO N

“AN GEL’S GEN U I N E FR I EN D LI N ESS , POSITIVE ATTITU D E AN D RED B U LL EN ER GY EM B O D I ES TH E H EART O F TH E H OSPITAL. SH E IS A GR EAT ADVO CATE AN D A RO LE M O D EL O N H OW TO GET I NVO LVED I N TH E CO M M U N ITY.”

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

ANGEL BIASATTI D i re c t o r of C o m m u n i t y a n d P u b l i c R e l a t i o n s DONNA J. SMIEDT M e t hAND o d i s t DESARAY M a n sf i e l d MR e dMUMA ical Center

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T / P H OTO S BY L A U R E N M A R I E M E D E A N

Th e native Fa mi lyBiasatti La wworks Firm Donna S mclinics, i e dtathletic partnerships, employeeJ. wellness Texas Angel hard toof make

the hospital. She is a great advocate and a role model on how to get involved in the community.” Methodist Mansfield Medical Center a household and life-saving sports physicals and echocardioname in the communities it serves. As director of grams while others have earned the hospital’s Her efforts and programs have been honored Family law has been Donna Smiedt’s specialty—and her passion—for over community and public relations, she spends her name on the Mansfield ISD football stadium and severalthe Healthcare from DCEO thirty years. During that time, her firm has become the go-to place in our has played a huge role in mewith becoming attorneyHero I amawards today. I’ve gained days raising awareness of the quality of healthat Oliver Nature Park to name a few. and FortofWorth area for complex family law litigation, including divorce, property division, invaluable experience in all areas familyBusiness. law including divorces, child care the hospital provides. “I love this commuadoption, child support, paternity, and post-divorce She modifi cation.one A good custody battles, adoptions, child support, and Child Protective Services created of the area’s premier running In her spare time, Angel believes in giving back, nity,” she says. “I enjoy empowering our citizens thing got even better when Donna welcomed aboard a dynamic, litigation.” Desaray’s favorite cases are those involving the collaborative events calledyoung Run With Heart. This annual serving others, and making a difference in the to make informed decisions about their health attorney named Desaray Muma. law process. “This involves a series of meetings outside of court focused half-marathon, 5K, and 1-mile fun run promotes world by serving on local boards of directors and having a positive difference in their lives.” on settlement from the beginning of the case, allowing families to have a heartyears health andafter cardiac rehab education while and school advisory boards, mentoring students As Donna relates, “Desaray came to work for me, four ago, customized process and control over their case,” Desaray said. “Collaborative “I work with the very best of andmine am blessed to work individuals through yearly PR internships, hosting students working for a colleague who was leavinghonoring private practice to living with heart disease law gives families the right to make decisions for their children and sets with President Juan Fresquez, a tremendous for career shadowing days, providing advice for andand remembering those who have lost their lives. become a professor. I began tasking her with research briefs, which parents up for future success in co-parenting.” leader,” Angel says. “Thereturned Methodist Mansfi eld young professionals, and helping increase literacy she promptly and expertly to me, no questions asked. I found her She was also instrumental in bringing local high cares and about our patients like familyI started her training by throughhas the always Read to been Me program, to name athe few. toteam be atruly dedicated intelligent young lawyer. A hallmark of Donna’s practice understanding school musicians to perform for patients on the and strives to make a difference in our commuhaving her take on uncontested cases and appear at the least contested or emotional toll litigation can take. For 30 plus years, she’s guided her “I was lucky to have parents who taught me to cardiac care floor through the Music nity challenging every day.” hearings, to gain experience. She performed least flawlessly. clients deftly Recovery through the legal aspects of the process but also the more listen to others, never stop learning, and never Notes program and is helping keep youngsters safe As her confidence level and knowledge of family law grew, I dragged her personal ones, proffering advice on how best to navigate the emotional A ngel places an emphasis on ma k ing the give up,” Angel says. “They encouraged me to take by partnering withict Mansfi eld ISD swim coaches along to watch and learn as I tried the more complex and high-confl minefi elds of family law and easing transitions for everyone in the family, community healthier and is eager to go out risks, make good choices, and make a difference— to emphasize water safety and prevent drownfamily law cases that are my specialty. One day, in the judge’s chambers, including children, who often struggle the most with the adjustments. of her comfort zone to learn new skills that one person at a time. My husband is my greatest ingscode with on theahospital’s the Otter” program. I have, I was arguing a fairly specialized area of the family tricky “Josh “The more information the better I can present options to them,” benefit the community. She has drafted busiblessing. He’s my best friend who celebrates my enforcement case with several hundreds of thousands of dollars at stake, she said. “The more informed I keep them, throughout the proceedings, Juan Fresquez, president of Methodist Mansfi eld ness proposals and contracts with the cities of successes with me, comforts me in my failures, against a very seasoned family law attorney. We were jabbing back and the less stressful it will be for them. Total honesty between my client and says, “Angel’s genuine friendliness, positive attiMansfield and Midlothian, as well as the school and encourages me to try again. And we can’t forth, when suddenly, a strange voice spoke up with an incredibly lucid myself is the best way to get the desired results.” Those efforts have been districts. Some of these contracts have resulted in tude, and Red Bull energy embodies the heart of imagine life without our fur babies.” and compelling statement regarding my client’s case. The room fell silent recognized by a Fort Worth Top Attorney award, as well as being voted and the judge asked, ‘And who are you?’ Desaray said, ‘I’m Desaray Muma, Family Law Attorney of the Year in Arlington no less than seven times. Ms. Smiedt’s associate attorney.’ The judge said, ‘Young lady, I believe CONTACT Desaray agrees, “As an attorney and in my personal life, I abide by ‘my you’re correct. That’s my ruling.’ And Desaray Muma, Attorney at Law word is my bond’,” she said. “Nothing is more important to me than 2700 EAST BROAD STREET had arrived. She’d come into her own. And I couldn’t have been prouder!” integrity.” MANSFIELD, TEXAS 76063 Another welcome addition to the firm is Desaray’s rescue dog, “When I began as a younger attorney, I aspired to have the confidence and Baxter. “He’s a Maltese mix—a little dog with a big personality,” she said. (682) 242-6400 OFFICE | METHODISTHEALTHSYSTEM.ORG tenacity I saw in Donna,” Desaray said. “She took me under her wing and “He comes to work with me every day, greets clients, and trots back into

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| june 2020

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MANDY IS THE DIRECTOR OF BIOTE CLINIC AND RESEARCH WHERE SHE HEADS UP RESEARCH ON THE BENEFITS OF HORMONE O P T I M I Z AT I O N .

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

INSTITUTE FOR HORMONAL BALANCE AND BIOTE Mandy Cotten

No matter your age or medical history, Dr. Mandy Cotten, APRN believes you deserve to be your best—physically, emotionally, psychologically, intellectually, socially, and spiritually. Yet for many of us, conditions in our bodies affect our mood, energy level, ability to think clearly, and relationships, holding us back from realizing our full potential. As a trusted holistic health provider, Mandy is all about helping you be the best you can be. Mandy spends her days helping men and women throughout North Texas—and far beyond—age happier and healthier. “Millions of individuals are impacted by the side-effects of hormone imbalance and don’t realize it,” she said. “From fatigue and weight gain to severe mood changes, they’re left with feelings of discomfort, unaware of the easily accessible solutions that can help restore their quality of life.” One of those solutions is BioTE pellet therapy which introduces bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) subcutaneously to help balance hormones in men and women and relieve many life-altering symptoms and risk factors. Mandy also works to

balance nutrients and vitamins through nutraceutical management with high quality supplements and IV Therapy. The key for Institute for Hormonal Balance (IHB) patients is an individualized treatment plan considering each patient’s stage of life, medical history, current symptoms, lifestyle challenges, and environmental conditions with the goal of balancing estrogen, testosterone, thyroid, and vitamin status, so they work together in the body enabling optimal health. Bioidentical hormone replacement is only one of the ways Mandy is helping men and women realize their full potential. “We’re living at a time when a hearty immune system is more important than ever,” Mandy said. “We offer wellness care and immune boosting supplements, hormones, and IV treatment tailored to each patient’s needs.” She also focuses on sexual wellness, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, vaginal rejuvenation, and non-surgical incontinence treatment with Emsella (electromagnetic waves) for pelvic floor muscle strengthening.

To help you look as good as you feel, the IHB offers Botox, dermal fi llers, SkinPen, Skin Tightening with BTL Exilis, SlimShots, doctor-supervised weight loss (DSWL), and skin tightening. “DSWL and SlimShots are promising weight management support tools combining a number of vitamins and amino acids to give your body the extra help it needs to burn fat, balance hormones, and increase energy levels,” she said. Mandy Cotten received her bachelor’s degree in nursing from TCU and completed her doctorate at Loyola University in New Orleans. In addition to her work at Institute for Hormonal Balance, Mandy is the Director of BioTE Clinic and Research where she heads up research on the benefits of hormone optimization. She is currently working on a study showing prevention of breast cancer with optimization of hormones and how balancing hormones can help with PTSD related symptoms. When not on the job, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Casey, and their two adorable kids.

CONTACT ARLINGTON OFFICE: 2304 I 20 WEST, SUITE 120 | ARLINGTON TX 76017

IRVING OFFICE: 1875 WEST WALNUT HILL LANE, SUITE 100 | IRVING, TX 75038

(817) 467-7474 | BIOTEMEDICAL.COM

june 2020

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S PECIAL SECT IO N

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

ACCENT ON YOU COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER AND MEDI-SPA Gena Alley, RN, Karen Ford, RN, Samantha Gerhart, CST and Linda Basil, RN

Accent on you is a busy place. On any given day, board-certified plastic surgeon and cosmetic enhancement expert Y. Anthony Nakamura and his team are busy making their patients’ cosmetic goals a reality with breast augmentation, tummy tuck, complete Mommy Makeovers, and more. And their medi-spa is always bustling. Dr. Nakamura really hit the jackpot with his highly professional and dedicated team.

and become an RN. She can easily relate to her patients because she herself was a patient at Accent on You and the daughter of a patient before she came to work there. Karen started her nursing career in labor and delivery but is really enjoying the challenges of the OR. She endeared herself to hundreds of high school band members and band parents as volunteer band nurse at her kids’ school, for nine years.

GENA ALLEY, RN

LINDA BASIL, RN

Gena was one of those rare kids who knew exactly what they wanted to be when she grew up. “I knew around eight or nine that I wanted to be a nurse,” she said. “I’ve been an RN for 30 years, 20 in labor and delivery and 10 in surgery recovery. I can’t think of anything I’d rather be doing.” The mom of two from a large, close-knit family, Gena loves to sing and occasionally lends her voice to the church choir.

Linda worked in cardiac care as a young nurse and loved it. “I’ve worked for a cosmetic surgeon, for 15 years of my 25 as a nurse and my passion has really changed,” she said. Linda completed her Masters in Nursing Education and has done some teaching with nursing students. An avid runner, she’s completed three marathons and several half-marathons, after the age of 40.

KAREN FORD, RN Karen was a single mother of three when she took the giant leap of faith to go back to school

SAMANTHA GERHART, CST Sam planned to go back to school when her youngest started kindergarten. But some unexpected life changes moved that timeline forward

CONTACT 3030 SOUTH COOPER STREET ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76015

(817) 417-720 | ACCENTONYOU.COM

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and she’s never looked back. It was one of her instructors in the TCC surgical tech program that recommended she apply to Accent on You. Now that she’s here, she realizes if you do what you love and do it well, you’ll have fun doing it. Sam’s a wife and mother of two amazing kids. With over 30 years of experience as a board-certified plastic surgeon and esteemed cosmetic enhancement expert, Dr. Y. Anthony Nakamura believes in providing natural-looking results for his patients giving you the body you've always wanted. With patients from all over DFW and far beyond, Dr. Nakamura understands the best results come from fully informed decisions and open communication between surgeon and patient. Call (817) 417-7200 or visit AccentOnYou. com to schedule your consultation.

S P ECI A L SEC T I ON

DR . DA NC HAK A ND HER STA FF HAVE I MP LE MEN TE D N EC ESSARY A DJUST MEN TS TO T HE A PP OINT MENT P ROTOCOLS T HAT E NSU RE E VE RYON E T HAT VISITS KO S /D A N C H A K A UDIOLOGY IS CAR ED FOR , SA FELY.

KOS/DANCHAK AUDIOLOGY & HEARING AIDS Melissa Danchak, AuD, CCC-A

Dr. Melissa Danchak is humbled by the opportunity to help people. “We are given the opportunity to help people in North Texas hear the best they can. The positive quality of life differences we make for those with hearing health concerns is awesome!” Hearing and understanding what is said is more challenging than ever before. "So many of the environments that we are in on a daily basis have competing background noises. Understanding what is said can be a challenge for someone who has 'normal hearing'. Because hearing loss isn't as noticeable as blurry vision or a toothache, it's understandable that people deny that they may have a hearing loss. Trying to hear and understand what someone is saying through a facemask makes communication infinitely more challenging for someone with hearing loss.” Dr. Danchak has a few communication strategies to share. “Wearing a facemask removes the visual cues from lipreading that often help those with hearing difficulties fi ll in the blanks. Not using one is not really an option at this time so here are a few ideas to communicate effectively.”

• Make sure you have the person's attention before you begin speaking with them. • When speaking with someone, especially if they have hearing loss, slow down your rate of speech. Enunciate your words, rather than over-exaggerating them. • Instead of repeating what you just said word for word, try to rephrase what you said if someone does not hear you.

GET THE HEARING HELP YOU NEED TODAY, SAFELY! Dr. Danchak and her staff have implemented necessary adjustments to the appointment protocols that ensure everyone that visits Kos/ Danchak Audiology is cared for, safely. “ The strategies we’re suggesting will help improve communication. However, it doesn’t change the fact that someone with hearing loss needs to get their ears and hearing checked and learn about the benefits of hearing device technology! We recognize getting that help means we must provide an experience where people receive great care in a safe manner.”

Your better experience begins with a discussion about your unique and personal hearing challenges you face each day. A hearing evaluation is then conducted and, if appropriate, a live listening demonstration with hearing devices will be provided. “I’ve been helping people hear better for over 23 years and it’s always exciting to watch someone hear better again,” Dr. Danchak said. ”It is an emotional experience that reminds us of why we do what we do.” Dr. Danchak and her staff understand that investing in better hearing is not just about technology. “Our Complete Hearing Health Care Program includes all of the services people need to be successful with their investment in better hearing - including free batteries for the lifetime of the devices.” The long-term relationship Kos/Danchak Audiology has formed is just one reason they have earned over 75 five-star reviews on Google, Facebook, and HealthyHearing.com. It’s also why so many of their satisfied patients refer their friends and family to them each month. Hearing is essential to communication. We’re here to help!

CONTACT 101 W. RANDOL MILL RD. | ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76011

(817) 277-7039 | NORTHTXHEARING.COM | FACEBOOK.COM/KOS.DANCHAK

june 2020

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

TEXAS HEALTH MEDICAL ASSOCIATES Ruth Arumala, DO, OB-GYN

Ruth Arumala doesn’t do anything halfway. In high school, she threw herself into volleyball, basketball, and track and was still ranked first in her graduating high school class. The daughter of a physician, Ruth didn’t originally consider becoming a gynecologist. Instead, after obtaining degrees in Cellular/Molecular Biology and Genetics and Psychology from University of Maryland (UM), she decided to pursue a Master of Public Health degree at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. Ruth thrived at both schools. Receiving the prestigious Banneker-Key full academic scholarship to UM, she was accepted into the Gemstone Living/Learning Research Program and the University Honors Program. At Mercer, she was a program coordinator for the University’s Wellness program creating and directing programs focused on suicide prevention, university fitness, and wellness. Simultaneously, Ruth earned a Health Administration Certificate from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. After her MPH training, Ruth attended medical school at Rowan University School of Osteopathic medicine. After the death of her beloved brother, Samuel

Arumala during her 2nd year of medical school she decided to work as a research fellow in Gaborone, Botswana. During this stint she discovered her passion: caring for women at all stages of life.

to raise her family. At age 51, she went back to residency training, the year my youngest brother went to college. I admire her priorities (family first), her tenaciousness, and her pure grit.”

After her medical training, she completed an Ob-Gyn residency at Georgetown University/ Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC where she practiced and learned alongside world-renowned practitioners not just medical knowledge and experience but also integrity. After caring for an underserved population in Oklahoma, Dr. Arumala relocated to Texas and opened a boutique-style, private Ob-Gyn practice with Texas Health Medical Associates in Mansfield. “Our practice is designed to provide quality, evidence-based care to women regardless of their backgrounds,” she said. “We provide personalized, quality care that values women and invites them to become a part of our unique healthcare family.”

Dr. Arumala specializes in the medical and surgical management of abnormal uterine bleeding. “I’m blessed to have the opportunity and expertise to treat these conditions and facilitate a healthier, more enjoyable life for my patients,” she said. “I believe in treating people, not their conditions. I care about how bleeding affects their marriages/relationships, how it hinders them for excelling at work, how it prevents them from pursuing their dreams or being better mothers to their children.”

Dr. Arumala doesn’t have to look far for an inspiring role model. “My mother is a double-board-certified family medicine practitioner and geriatrician,” she said. “When we immigrated to America from Nigeria, she put her career on hold for 11 years

CONTACT 1759 BROAD PARK CIRCLE SUITE 101, MANSFIELD, TEXAS 76063

(817) 806-1120 | DRARUMALA.COM

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Dr. Arumala is the hostess of the Pretty in Pink podcast where she interviews experts about “all things women.” She serves on the medical board of the #1 period tracking app in the world, Flo Health and is involved in the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce where she hosted a discussion on menopause and the Mansfield Minority Chamber of Commerce where she recently participated in the 2020 Doctors Panel.

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

VINTAGE VIBE Angie Payne

In a perfect world, everyone would love the work they do as much as Angie Payne loves her work at Vintage Vibe on East Broad in Mansfield. In fact, to Angie, it doesn’t feel like “work” at all. The Vintage Vibe story began about 10 years ago, when Angie was happily busy as a stay-athome mom of three. “I’ve always enjoyed design but being a stay-at-home mom, I had to do it on a shoestring,” she said. When her son was eight, Angie decided to redo his room. Instead of shopping at a big-box store and spending a fortune for the same furniture everybody else had, she repainted and repurposed a bedroom set she’d bought for less than $100. That was it. Angie was hooked! Since then, she’s spent her time looking for unique items and giving them new life for her ever-growing customer base. The business she began in her garage grew quickly. After expanding into a studio then renting space at several antique malls, she opened her storefront, Vintage Vibe,

in 2014, and quickly realized she was onto something. With an emphasis on customer service and offering unique items her customers can’t find elsewhere, Angie soon garnered a following of loyal customers—with new customers discovering her, every week. Because the stock is everchanging, each trip to 1585 East Broad Street offers them something new.

home and raise. Our oldest is married and we’re due to become grandparents in June. I couldn’t have asked for a better life. Now, to be able to find a career that brings me such joy and brings so many amazing people into my life, well, it’s more than I could have hoped for.”

“When you walk through our doors, we want this to be your ‘happy place’. We love nothing more than spending time with our customers, helping them pull together the pieces that’ll make their home unique. We make a point of keeping our price points affordable, so there’s something for every budget, and we’re always looking for that next unusual or one-of-a-kind item.”

A big believer in giving back, Angie stays involved in the community. The mother of a child with autism, she facilitates a fundraiser/raffle, during the month of April, and donates to various autism charities, throughout the year. “We also do a community outreach in December with free photos with Santa paired with a toy drive and food donations,” she said. “It’s a special event offering kids with disabilities one-on-one time with Santa.”

Born and raised in Arlington, Angie has lived a charmed life. “I met the love of my life at 17,” she said. “We’ve been married 27 years and have three amazing children I was blessed to be able to stay

When she’s not on the job or volunteering, Angie loves nothing more than kicking back around the pool or patio or heading out on the boat with her family.

CONTACT 1585 EAST BROAD STREET | SUITE 101 MANSFIELD, TEXAS

(817) 473-2777 | VINTAGEVIBETEXAS.COM

june 2020

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

TEXAS HEALTH MEDICAL ASSOCIATES Angela Nguyen, DO

You never know who you might inspire, as you go about your daily life. For Dr. Angela Nguyen, it was the doctors and residents she encountered during medical appointments as a child that got her thinking about her own future career. “They made our experience smooth, streamline, and less intimidating,” she said. “I remember doctors who were so patient explaining things to my immigrant parents and even asking me if I had questions, when I was just a kid. The time and effort they put into explaining complex things in a way we could understand still influences the ideals I have for my own medical practice. I always try to remember those 15 or 20 minutes of interaction I spend with a patient can impact someone, for the rest of their lives.” Dr. Nguyen watched her parents, immigrants to this country, work tremendously hard to provide for her and her sister. “They worked multiple jobs while trying to learn a whole new language,” she said. “They still inspire me every day.” Now as a family medicine practitioner, she often cares

for three generations of a family. And as an osteopathic physician, she advocates a holistic approach to their care. “I’m interested in each patient’s physical, mental, and spiritual wellness,” she said. “Caring for patients means not just listening to their symptoms but considering all aspects of a patient’s lifestyle. In a typical visit, I sit down and listen to what’s happening with the patient’s home, family, and work. It’s important that I understand the whole picture to provide them with true holistic healthcare.” Texan born and bred, Angela obtained her undergraduate degree in biochemistry from University of Texas at Austin and is a proud longhorn. While in residency, she volunteered at the KIND Clinic in Austin providing services for sexual health and wellness, including HIV prevention treatment, PrEP, PEP and gender care services. “I continue to provide gender-affirming hormone therapy for transgender patients at my current practice,” she said. “I’m currently undergoing further training in medical acupuncture and am excited to hold

CONTACT 1105 ALEXIS COURT, SUITE 101 MANSFIELD, TEXAS 76063

(817) 806-1140 (OFFICE) | (817) 806-1141 (FAX)

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faculty positions with TCU School of Medicine and my alma mater, UNTHSC Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Nguyen volunteers at Mansfield Mission Center’s Linda Nix Clinic offering free medical care to the uninsured residents of Mansfield. She’s a provisional member of the Junior League of Fort Worth. “I’m excited to be a part of an organization that promotes voluntarism and whose mission is to develop the potential of women while improving our community,” she said. Dr. Nguyen grew up speaking Cantonese and Mandarin in her household then obtained a minor in French during her undergraduate. Since med school, she’s been working on her medical Spanish and would like to learn American Sign Language next. When not serving her patients, she enjoys spending time with family and friends in DFW Metroplex, exploring new restaurants, and crafting new art projects.

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“I O PEN ED C I TY V I EW A U D I OL OGY & H E A RI N G A I D S BECA U S E I WA N T E D TO D O M O RE FO R MY PAT IEN TS . FO R I NSTA N CE , W E OF F E R A F RE E A U RA L RE HA B CL AS S FO R A N YO NE W HO WA N TS TO L E A RN CO PI N G ST RAT EGI ES FO R P EO PLE W I T H HE AR I NG L OS S A ND T HE I R FA M I LI ES . S O M E T I M ES FA MI LY ME MB E RS NE ED A LI T T L E ED U CATI O N A BO U T H OW TO C O M MU N I CAT E W I T H T HE ON E W I T H HE A RI N G D I FFI CU LT I ES. ”

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

CITYVIEW AUDIOLOGY & HEARING AIDS, INC. Diane Blaising, AuD, ADA, ABA, FAAA

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 bone conduction hearing. “This was back when we had portable record players,” she said. “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 said.

After more than 24 years serving as an audiologist, the last 11 with her own practice, Dr. Blaising sees herself as a source for total hearing care. “I want my office to serve as a resource center for everything hearing,” she said. “I opened Cityview Audiolog y & 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 she has the best staff on the planet. “They join me in my mission to help our patients obtain a better quality of life by enhancing their ability to communicate with their families and friends, for deeper, more meaningful relationships,” she said. “We love helping working men and women be more successful in their careers. Sometimes people are bothered by ringing in their ears. That is called Tinnitus. We can evaluate what is going on and offer treatments to help the tinnitus.

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 patient we see.” 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 in Louisville 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. She and her husband attend First Baptist Church in Dallas and Dr. Blaising is a member of the Christian Medical and Dental Association.

CONTACT 7801 OAKMONT BOULEVARD, SUITE 109 FORT WORTH, TEXAS

(817) 263-1800 | CITYVIEWHEARING.COM

june 2020

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

AMY’S PAINT EFFECTS Amy Wohkinger

Do you love shopping at a big box store buying the same old same old as everyone else? Are you content with a cookie-cutter home just like every other on your block? Or are you the kind of person who isn’t afraid to venture outside the box? Do you enjoy expressing yourself through the spaces in your home? Do you love the idea of a one-of-a-kind accent wall or mural, a handpainted furniture design, an unexpected color that really makes a room, or a complete home redo that wakes you up with a smile each day? If you fall into this latter category (and we hope you do) you need to meet Amy Wohkinger of Amy’s Paint Effects. Amy is one of those people who’s be able to look at a humdrum room and see its limitless possibilities. Spend some time on Amy’s website at AmyFauxEffects.Houzz.com and we think you’ll have as much fun as we did, flipping through the photos of Amy’s past projects. From waking up a boring, old kitchen to gutting and

reimagining a bathroom or a complete home makeover, Amy and her team want to help you fall in love with your home again.

want your home to say about you,” she said. “The need to change things—to improve things—is what really drives me.”

Amy begins each project with her tools and paint brushes packed away, simply getting to know the client and listening to their vision for the space. Over the years, she’s learned the exact right questions to ask to ascertain a client’s personal taste and lifestyle, to capture their vision for a project, before making it a reality. “Everything we create is unique to a certain client,” she said. “The better we know and understand that client, the better the end result.”

A proud mama of two, Amy has been awarded the Best of Houzz award for customer service, three years running. Over the past 26 years, her design firm has been chosen by more than two million homebuilding, remodeling, and design industry professionals. Whether you’re looking for a top-to-bottom reimagining of the spaces in your home or a faux-brick warehouse effect in your kitchen, an update to a tired, old fireplace, a one-of-a-kind mural, or an exciting, new finish on your kitchen cabinets, Amy and her team are ready to partner with you for a home like no other—a space you’re happy to come home to.

Amy’s true joy comes in marrying her natural artist eye with her design knowledge to make an unloved space or forlorn piece of furniture into a cherished part of a home. Her designs aren’t so much about what’s currently “in style” but about what the client likes; what excites them. “I want to know what inspires you and what you

CONTACT (817) 313-9064 | AMYFAUXEFFECTS.HOUZZ.COM

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Find out more at AmyFauxEffects.Houzz.com or call (817) 313-9064 to schedule an in-home consultation and bid.

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TEXAS HEALTH MEDICAL ASSOCIATES Erica Sails,BY MD MEREDITH KNIGHT

CITYVIEW AUDIOLOGY & HEARING AIDS, INC.

Dr. Erica Sails is a woman on a mission. That mission—to help others achieve optimal health through nutrition, exercise, medicine, and education. Her journey began at the age of five when she decided she wanted to become a physician. It should haveinstilled been no in surprise to Diane Blaising’s “My parents me a determination to family she found her and calling helping others give mywhen best in everything to do all unto the live a of better lifeshe through improved hearing. Way glory God,” said. “I was blessed to have back in elementary was a young Diane teachers, parents, aschool, church,it and community that me.” whopoured wowed into her classmates with a science project demonstrating bone conduction hearing. This was evidenced by having a community “This was back when we had portable record OB-Gyn mentor, Dr. Ellis. He allowed her to players,” she “I ce took record to shadow him in said. the offi andthe even in theplayer birthing school and instead of using the needle on the suite as a high school student. “My experience record, I had a sewing stuck into a pencil in Dr. Ellis’ offi ce and needle the hospital reinforced eraser. We’d to hold the wooden end of the my decision become a physician,” shepencil said. between our teeth place the needle on She worked hard andand graduated valedictorian the turning record class; and could hear the record of her high school obtained entrance through our teethUniversity and bonesininIllinois, our skulls. It’s to Northwestern where not continued coming through your ear canals. It’s bone she to excel and obtained a BA in Chemistry, completing premed studies. conductionwhile hearing.”

Dr. Sails was accepted into the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. It was an exciting yet challenging time. The sheer volume of information to assimilate and retain made Northwestern look like Kindergarten next After moreschool. than 24There years were serving as an audito medical many lessons ologist,in the last 11 withincluding her ownhumility practice,and Dr. learned this process Blaising sees Dr. herself a sourcefrom for total hearperseverance. Sails as graduated UIC-COM ing care. “I want my and office to serve as a resource with her MD degree moved forward to resicenterShe for had everything she said. dency. realizedhearing,” the dream that had“I openedlong Cityview started ago at Audiolog the age ofy5.& Hearing Aids because I wanted to do more for my patients. “IFor firmly believed called by aural God torehab medicine, instance, weI was offer a free class so residency and learned to strategies enjoy the forI endured anyone who wants to learn coping experience,” shehearing said. I had amazing trainfor people with lossan and their families. ing and served as members Chief Resident myeducathird Sometimes family need a in little year. discipline and focus had paid tion The about how to communicate with off. theYet, one one the greatest challenges still lied ahead. withofhearing difficulties.”

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 said.

their families and friends, for deeper, more meaningful relationships,” she said. “We love helping working men and women be more successful in their careers. Sometimes people are bothered by ringing in their ears. That is called Tinnitus. We can evaluate what is going on and offer treatments to help the tinnitus.

my residency and to press on to become the family physician God called me to be. She taught me to see beyond the surface of things and see the matters of the heart. This has given me a unique perspective with my patients and has We liveme in arelate time when hearing aid technology helped to them in ways I couldn’t is extremely sophisticated and we with have my the have imagined.” “I enjoy partnering ability tototreat any hearing successfully. patients set SMART goals loss to help prevent— Every patient is different. the So we stay abreast and in some cases—reverse progression of of advancements the programming software lifestyle disease,” in she said. that allows us to correctly fit hearing instru“Through my journey, I’ve learned what makes ments to each patient we see.” life worth living is giving. That is giving of yourself time, knowledge, resources, and empathy,” Dr. –Diane Blaising began her career in audiolDr. said.She “I’mreceived grateful her my mom introduced ogySails in 1992. doctor of audiolme God and through her life School taught of meHealth valuogytodegree from the Arizona able lessons, which is not toin live my life Sciences andone herof master’s degree audiology in vain.the The other Center is that only what we do for from Callier for Communication others will at last.” Disorders the University of Texas at Dallas. She has years of experience working with hearing-impaired adults and children in otolaryngologists’ offices in Louisville 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. She and her husband attend First Baptist Church in Dallas and Dr. Blaising is a member of the Christian Medical and Dental Association.

Diane Blaising, AuD, ADA, ABA, FAAA

“My mom wassays diagnosed with terminal Dr. Blaising she has theabest staffcancer. on the Little did I know that she would live onlytoeight planet. “They join me in my mission help months afterobtain her diagnosis,” Dr. Sails said. our patients a better quality of life by “During that time, encouraged me to continue enhancing their she ability to communicate with

CONTACT CONTACT

1757 BROAD PARK CIRCLE NORTH, SUITE 201 7801 OAKMONT BOULEVARD, SUITE 109 MANSFIELD, TEXAS 76063 FORT WORTH, TEXAS

(817) 806-1130 | SAILSFAMILYMEDICINE.COM (817) 263-1800 | CITYVIEWHEARING.COM

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

NORTH YMCA Melissa Gross

Melissa Gross had an unusual role model as a kid—Jack LaLanne. “He was the godfather of fitness and was a huge inspiration to me,” she said. “When I was a little kid, I’d wake up early to watch his exercise show. I’d do the exercises with him and was just mesmerized.” Melissa knew then that fitness was her calling. Going to work now, as Healthy Lifestyles Director at the North YMCA, doesn’t even feel like “work”. Melissa’s first experience with team sports was playing volleyball at Nimitz High School in Irving, where she earned her way onto the Junior Olympic team and was soon recruited to play volleyball for Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas. Stumped about choosing a major, she consulted with a trusted professor who asked her, “What do you love to do?” That was easy. Melissa earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Fitness Management from Midwestern State University. “Fitness, exercise and movement are what I love,” she said. “After school, I got a job at City of Irving Parks and Recreation as a

recreation specialist where I had the freedom to choose the format of classes I wanted. I was interested in aerobics, so I got certified in group fitness and brought in certification classes for other instructors to obtain their certification.” Melissa met her husband at the rec center, married in 1998, and started a family. After two years as a stay-at-home-mom, she realized she really missed teaching fitness classes. When the family joined the South Grand Prairie YMCA, Melissa signed on as an instructor. Then when the family relocated to Arlington, the first thing on her list was finding the closest Y and applying for a job as an instructor. “I’ve worked at the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA since March 2005, starting as an instructor/personal trainer and currently as the healthy lifestyles director,” she said. “I love being part of this fitness family. “I’m proud to work for an organization that doesn’t turn anyone away for the inability to pay. This isn’t just a job for me. It’s my chance to help and inspire others.”

CONTACT 1005 SKYLINE DRIVE ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76011

(817) 548-9622 | AMAYMCA.ORG

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In fact, it's not unusual for Melissa to be standing in line at the grocery store and offering fitness tips or workout ideas to complete strangers who showed an interest. “I’m happy to talk about fitness with anyone anywhere,” she said. Melissa is certified in group fitness and personal training through National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA), certified in cycle, Pilates, kickboxing, and Barre. This year marks her 25th year teaching group fitness classes. She and her husband are active members of A rling ton Sunrise Rotar y and Chamber of Commerce and part of the Fellowship Church family in Grapevine for over 20 years. “It’s never too late to start living a healthy lifestyle,” she said. “I want our members to leave stronger, empowered, motivated, and inspired and I want to make the Y a great place for our instructors to work. I believe in not only working on what people can see on the outside but helping change them on the inside.”

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wellness

RISE OF THE ROBOTS Medical robotics has gone mainstream BY A N N E T T E BR O O KS

Robotic-assisted surgery, medical nanobots, and therapeutic exoskeletons used to be the stuff of science fiction. Today, the field of medical robotics has stepped out of the fantasy world and into our research labs, hospitals, and clinics. The current aims of medical robotics are to reduce patient recovery time, improve outcomes, and give surgeons the tools they need for greater efficiency and a new level of precision in treatment, planning, and in the operating room.

Trailblazer Turns 20 Minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery leapt onto the scene in 2000 when the FDA cleared the da Vinci System by Intuit. Back then, robotic-assisted surgery was a novelty. Now, the da Vinci is installed in more than 1,700 hospitals worldwide.

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wellness | RISE OF THE ROBOTS

The da Vinci is used for a range of procedures inside the body cavity, from hernia repair, hysterectomy, gallbladder removal, and prostate surgery to cardiac and thoracic surgery. Surgeons trained on the system sit behind a console equipped with 3D high definition vision and wristed instruments. With the surgeon in control of the system at all times as it operates through small incisions, the da Vinci translates the surgeon’s hand and wrist movements, scaling and correcting for inadvertent hand jitters. It enables surgeons to operate with enhanced vision, precision, dexterity, and control. Medical Robotics Surges Ahead As Intuit continues to forge its groundbreaking path and evolve its technologies, other companies are pouring research and development into medical robotics and bringing their own systems to market. In general, these systems and applications are specialized for different surgical procedures, from orthopedic and neurosurgery applications to roboticassisted biopsy and cosmetic procedures such as hair restoration.

Endoscopic procedures represent another frontier in medical robotics. For example, the Flex Robotic System by Medrobotics can “snake” its way to most any place in the body, causing less damage to soft tissue. Often used for colon and head and neck surgery, its flexible, tubelike arm allows the device to move along circuitous routes inside the body to reach places that may have formerly required much more invasive surgery.

Stryker, one of the early leaders in robotic-assisted orthopedic surgery, recently released its new generation Mako SmartRobotics platform used by orthopedic surgeons for total and partial knee replacement, and total hip replacement. Not only does the robotic arm assist during surgery, the technology offers CT scanning and 3D imaging for assessment and surgical planning purposes.

Perhaps even more amazing due to their size are capsule robots. Diagnostic “capsule endoscopies” are being performed today via a swallowable, pillsized robot. The bot travels along your digestive tract gathering data and taking pictures that can be sent directly to a processor for diagnostics and screening. And there’s more. Researchers are working on shape-shifting “origami” bots that open once inside the body then assemble together to repair, for example, holes in the stomach or intestinal lining.

Zimmer Biomet’s FDA-cleared ROSA One Brain application is used to assist in minimally invasive neurosurgery procedures, including biopsies, stereoelectro-encephalography (SEEG), and deep brain stimulation that treats patients suffering from Parkinson’s and essential tremors. The ROSA platform also supports total knee replacement. By helping orthopedic surgeons with more accurate implant placement and ease of planning, the Stryker and ROSA systems can help patients experience better outcomes.

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Rehabilitation and physical therapy also benefit big time from medical robotics. The Hand of Hope by RehabRobotics Company Limited is a glovelike therapeutic exoskeleton that aids in rehabilitating hand mobility through motor relearning with the goal of helping patients achieve maximum motor recovery. Esko Bionics’ gait training exoskeleton is FDA-cleared for stroke and spinal cord injury rehabilitation.

In simple terms, it reminds your body how it’s supposed to move. Futuristic Medical Nanorobots Nanomedicine is arguably one of the coolest innovations occurring today. Using the emerging technology of cell-sized nanobots, scientists and researchers are aiming to clear bacterial infections directly from a patient’s blood and much more. Potential applications abound, including nanobots that roam around inside the body delivering drugs with unprecedented precision, and bots that will hunt down and destroy cancer cells. As nanobot treatments for cancer become available, some patients may no longer need to undergo therapies with bad side effects that affect their entire system. The Bot Bottom Line T he technolog ies and concept s mentioned here are just a few of many new medical robotic systems currently available or in research and development. When you compare today’s knowledge and innovations with the macabre and scary-looking medical tools and devices used 100 years ago, our leap forward is almost incomprehensible. Imagine where we’re headed in the next 50 to 100 years! What we’re using now will likely seem as bizarre and antiquated then as the tools and treatment methods of the last century appear to us today.

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wellness

L E A D I N G T H E WAY

to wellness HOW TO BE YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH CHAMPION BY MI M I G R E E NW O OD K N IG H T

grew up eating vegetables that exclusively came from cans. Don’t get me wrong, my mom was a great parent. She followed the one meat, one starch, one vegetable mindset of her time. But like most families we knew, our spinach, peas, and corn were all canned. I was 40 before I tasted a fresh beet, radish, or turnip. And fresh collards? Fuhgeddaboudit! My mom and her friends also didn’t “work out” as much as get into fad diets and squeeze into girdles.

With all love and respect due to those who love us and do the best they can, when reached the age where I could start making health choices for my own family, I decided that I wanted to do better. I was keenly aware that as parents we are our kids’ first and most effective teacher. Here’s some of what I’ve learned, and what I’m still learning, about being a health leader in my home. When it comes to living a healthy and fitness-oriented lifestyle, our kids are like sponges soaking up every attitude, approach, and response they see in us. Making healthy living a priority starts with parents setting good fitness and nutrition examples for our kids. If we take a family walk most nights instead of flopping down in front of the TV right away, that’s what our kids will see as “normal.” If our kids see us getting in a morning run or ending the day with yoga, they’ll naturally imagine themselves doing the same. Eating more appropriately can be a natural part of family life too. Start by minimizing the junk food coming into your house and maximizing delicious, healthy food choices. Allow kids to be part of the process by involving them

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| june 2020

in menu planning, grocery shopping, and cooking, so they experience what healthy choices look like. Be cautious about banning all junk food, which can make it seem more appealing and cause them to overindulge when there’s an opportunity. Instead, find healthy things they like and make sure they’re readily available. Sit down together and come up with a weekly snack menu. This helps plant the idea of meal planning, rather than mindless grazing, and ensures they’ll like the snacks you buy. Take a similar approach to letting them discover what fitness activities they enjoy. Look for activities that align with their personality, desires, and interests, and keep in mind they may need to try and discard a few options before they find the ones they love. Letting them take the lead on discovering what they enjoy doing and eating can make incorporating fitness into their lives easier and more rewarding. Remember to keep things fun and relaxed, so you and your family can enjoy a better, stronger, more fulfilling life—without it feeling like you’ve got to force it.

aesthetics

HAIR FREE,

care free

L A S E R H A I R R E M OVA L C A N E N D S H AV I N G A N D WA X I N G BY ANN ET T E BR OO KS

ilky, smooth, hair-free skin looks and feels great. If you are ready to stop dealing with razor burns, nicks and cuts, ingrown hairs, painful waxing, and constant stubble, there has never been a better time to get laser hair removal. Current laser technology is more sophisticated, efficient, and effective than ever before. And past issues, such as effectively treating skin with more pigmentation, have been addressed. Today, multi wavelength lasers have a wavelength for lighter skin and a different wavelength for darker skin tones. Plus, the procedure is comfortable for most people due to new cooling technologies.

Ready to say â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes!â&#x20AC;? to laser hair removal? We have put together some information and tips to help you get started.

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| june 2020

At S c h o e n i n g D D S p a t i e n t s c a n ex p e c t the highest quality of c u s t o m i z e d c a re , b e c a u s e t o u s i t ’s n o t j u s t a b o u t t e e t h , i t ’s about people and their q u a l i t y of l i fe .

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aesthetics | HAIR FREE, CARE FREE

How does laser hair removal work? According to the Mayo Clinic, during laser hair removal a laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. The light energy is converted to heat, which damages hair follicles that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth. How soon after treatment will the hair begin to fall out? Usually within 10 to 14 days after treatment. Is everyone a good candidate for laser hair removal? Laser hair removal used to be targeted for people with light skin and darker hair. People with light skin and light hair, or dark skin and dark or light hair were typically not good candidates. New laser technologies available today help alleviate these issues. The key is to select an experienced, professional laser hair removal provider with up-to-date laser technology who can treat safely and effectively your specific skin type and condition. What are the common treatment areas? Most people are interested in treating one or more of the following areasâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;legs, armpits, back, chest, arms, upper lip, chin, buttocks, toes, and bikini line. How many treatments will I need? It usually takes about four to eight treatments to completely remove the hair in a targeted area. This is because around 15 percent of body hair is in a â&#x20AC;&#x153;growth phaseâ&#x20AC;? at any given time. Are maintenance treatments required? Laser hair removal can delay hair growth for long periods, but results are usually not permanent. Your laser hair removal professional will discuss periodic maintenance with you. What should I expect during a consultation? Your certified laser hair removal technician will first determine if the treatment is appropriate for you. Your medical history, including medication and supplements taken, history of skin disorders and scarring, and past hair removal procedures will be reviewed. Also expect a discussion about risks, benefits, and expectations, and a clear explanation about what laser hair removal can and cannot do for you. Are there any additional tips? Ta ke photos a nd use t hem for before-a nd-af ter assessments and long-term reviews of the treated areas.

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| june 2020

Do At-home DIY Devices Really Work? Several devices on the market claim to reduce hair in treated areas. In general, they do not offer the same levels of efficiency or long-term results as treatments by experienced professionals using advanced commercial-grade laser systems. Furthermore, hard-to-reach and/ or large areas of unwanted body hair are difficult, tedious, and time consuming to treat with DIY devices. For the best and most consistent results, choose to be treated by a pro.

GOT GERD? Do you suffer from heartburn, acid reflux, or regurgitation? Have you awakened in the middle of the night with a burning sensation in your chest or throat? Do you feel a metallic taste in your mouth in the morning? Have you been on over-the-counter antacids or acid reducing medications? If you suffer from any of the above symptoms you may have GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. If left untreated, GERD can lead to Barrettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s esophagus and even esophageal cancer. Call our office today for an appointment and let us help with our multimodality diagnostic tools including endoscopy, pH monitoring, and manometry. Our doctors are well versed with state of the art treatments including a no incision GERD correction procedure known as TIF (Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication). We also work with a multidisciplinary team with access to robotic hernia repair and LINX procedures. MOUSTAFA YOUSSEF, MD

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aesthetics

MORE SMILES with Less Stress RECENT ADVANCES IN DENTAL TECHNOLOGY PROVIDE A WIDE ARRAY OF ANXIETY-EASING OPTIONS BY D AVID B U IC E

rankly, not too many of us really look forward to our next dental appointment. Recent advances in dental technology, however, are making things markedly better, and helping to relieve much of the anxiety and stress often associated with a visit to your dentist.

Here are a few of the more important treatment options that have recently become broadly available. Digital X-rays Dental x-rays traditionally performed using radiograms are now widely being replaced by digital x-ray machines. Digital x-rays are easier to process and download to a computer for comparison with previous x-rays. And importantly, digital x-rays significantly reduce the amount of radiation the patient receives. Laser dentistry Many dentists now use a high-tech diode laser to detect decay on the chewing surfaces of the teeth, while x-rays find decay between and inside the teeth. Healthy teeth exposed to the diode laser don’t glow or fluoresce, but decayed teeth glow in proportion to the amount of decay, resulting in higher readings on the laser’s display. CAD/CAM technology Together, computer-assisted design (CAD) and computer-assisted manufacture (CAM) reduce the number of office visits needed to complete procedures such as crowns and bridges. In the past, to provide a crown for a patient the dentist would make a mold of the tooth, prepare a temporary crown, and wait for the dental lab to make a permanent one. Using CAD/CAM technology, the dentist prepares the tooth for a crown and sends an image to a machine that makes the crown, often right in the office.

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| june 2020

Improved veneers Veneers are thin shells used to cover damaged or unattractive teeth. Today’s veneers are stronger and thinner than those used earlier, meaning less of the original tooth has to be removed to make room for the veneer. The appearance is more natural, and the chances for pain and other complications are reduced. New gum procedures Pockets in the gums expose teeth to bacteria and increase the chances of developing multiple dental problems. Surgery was once the only way to reduce these pockets, but many new options now exist, from bone and tissue grafts to the use of special proteins to stimulate the regrowth of gum and inner tooth tissue. No-needle anesthesia If you’re needle-averse, some dentists now use a no-needle, high pressure technique to inject a local anesthetic that deadens the area around a tooth for 35 to 45 minutes. So, if you’ve been postponing that needed dental appointment, relax and give it a try. You might be surprised to find how much things have improved for both you and your dentist.

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homestead

SEASIDE

se n se s

A NEW BUILD BY THE BEACH LETS ONE FAMILY ESCAPE THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE

ABOUT THE ARCHITECTS: With over 70 years of combined professional experience, the award-winning team at Mark Ashby Design brings an exceptional depth of understanding to each project, w ith an approach def ined by a deep reverence for history and architectural context combined with a timeless aesthetic and meticulous attention to detail.

THE BEACH BUNGALOW, IN GALVESTON ARCHITECTURE BY MARK ASHBY DESIGN PHOTOS BY CLAY GRIER

MARKASHBYDESIGN.COM

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| june 2020

homestead | SEASIDE SENSES

FROM THE GROUND UP This striking vacation home was built as part of a new beach development community, to serve as a retreat and escape from the city. CONNECTED LIVING In addition to all new finishes, ceiling beams, ship lap, wallpapers, and tile were added throughout to add character to an otherwise simple aesthetic. A POP OF PLAYFULNESS The bedroom for the youngest boys features an exciting wooden bunk painted with a perfectly appropriate aqua color that matches both the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s color palette as well as the ocean outside.

june 2020

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homestead | SEASIDE SENSES

A NEUTRAL PALETTE // Indoor/outdoor fabrics and solid materials were used throughout to withstand the seaside elements and the daily lives of three young boys. SIMPLE AND ELEGANT // Natural materials and neutral colors let exciting elements like the design on these bathroom tiles add striking accents to soft, comfortable-feeling areas. FAVORABLE FLOW // “We like the colors to flow from room to room to compliment the landscape of the beach,” said Creative Director Anne Grandinetti.

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| june 2020

EXPECT THE BEST WITH WR ROOFING Voted Best Roofing Company

Working closely with you to ensure we understand your every need. The best materials and a tenured and well trained staff is the key to your satisfaction and exceeded expectations. Locally Owned & Operated

Live It, To Give It

New Roof Construction • Roof Repair / Replacement Commercial Roofing • Skylights

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homestead

FRONT PORCH

s i t t i n’

THE JOYS OF GETTING READY TO SOAK IN THE SUMMER BY C HE RYL A L E X A ND E R

ummer is right around the corner and I’m already anticipating the warmer weather, greener lawns, and longer days. To me, there’s no better spot to welcome summer’s arrival than on a front porch.

The magic of sitting on the front porch has everything to do with a worn and comfortable rocking chair or a slightly squeaky porch swing or a table set with just the right amount of casual sass. Time slows to a snail’s pace on a porch, and yet it’s easy to spend the whole day there. I’m sitting in one of those rocking chairs right now as I write this from the porch at my dad’s house in the country. Today I’m the first to wake, and with that advantage I can clearly hear the morning’s songs: the lapping water of the lake, soothing and calming in its consistency, and the birds making their morning calls. There is a cool breeze coming off the water and steam is rising from the wet grass in the field. On a porch, sitting still is easy. It asks us to settle down and read a book or a magazine with a hot cup of coffee in the morning or a cold glass of tea in the heat of the day. It offers a place to spend time with friends and family sharing stories of the past or dreams of the future in the early light of day or as the moon begins to rise. It beckons… come on and swing or rock while you have a nice chat, make a new plan, or compose a great idea.

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| june 2020

And it whispers that it’s perfectly fine to sit and do nothing. Just watch the leaves dance or laugh at the dogs racing after ducks and rolling in the leaves. You don’t even have to talk. You can just rock and swing and smile. A nap is always welcome— especially after a day full of swimming or fishing or gardening or cooking. A short nap with the sounds of the day all around is just the little pickme-up anyone needs. Around dusk, everyone will start vibrating again, looking forward to a shared meal with family and friends. Sometimes it’s just a few of us, but sometimes it’s more. There will always be enough plates and chairs and food to accommodate whoever shows up. The same stories will be told again and again and the laughter just as loud every time. Porch-sittin’ is a blessing. Get out there and enjoy it.

TURNING TOP DOLLAR Insider tips for selling your home at its peak BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

You want to sell your home. You want to get the best price. And you want it done quickly. Take it from the insiders we consulted—here’s how to reliably make it happen. CURB APPEAL // Home buying starts when the buyer pulls up. Keep your grass cut and windows sparkling. Highlight your home’s best features with lighting. And add some cheery flowers for special allure. DE-CLUTTER AND CLEAN // A decluttered home looks larger and more inviting. Bonus—it’s also easier to keep clean since it only takes a few minutes to run around with a duster and vacuum. STAGE IT // A certified home stager can reorganize your possessions to spotlight your home’s best features while downplaying its problem areas. Be sure to have it done before your home is photographed. USE KNOCK-OUT PHOTOS // Save your smartphone for selfies. Enlist a professional realty photographer—preferably with a wide-angle lens—to photograph your home. Ask your realtor for recommendations, then schedule your shoot for a time of day when the sun casts the perfect light on your home. FRESH PAINT // It only takes a weekend to apply some new paint and totally transform your home. Choose welcoming but neutral colors in low-odor paint. DITCH PERSONAL ITEMS // Allow potential buyers to imagine themselves living in your home by removing all those mementos that declare it’s already yours. MUSIC AND AMBIENT LIGHTING // Mood lighting and background music can make buyers feel good and change a cold house into a warm home. Choose soft background music without vocals. CONSIDER SCENTS // Avoid strong cleaning fluids like bleach and consider baking bread or cookies just before buyers arrive. Or brew a fresh pot of coﬀee. REMOVE PET ODORS // Pet owners often become immune to the smells of their animals.

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| june 2020

Ask a friend or your realtor to do an honest sniﬀ test. Then remedy pet odors if they’re an issue. ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE // If you have a new roof, windows, or appliances, leave notes or information out to inform the buyer. Most new roof warranties are transferable and a home with a 10-year roof warranty is a huge selling feature. CONSIDER TIMING // For a home to sell it must be available and accessible to realtors and their buyers. If you refuse showings because it’s not convenient for you or the house isn’t tidy, many buyers won’t reschedule, especially if they’re coming from out of town. The one showing you turn down could be the buyer who wants to write an oﬀer. Now let’s sell that house already!

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june 2020

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adventure

GHOSTS OF

Travels Past TWO TEXAS GHOST TOWNS— ONE UNFORGETTABLE AFTERNOON BY BY A N NET T E BR O OKS

“Mom, don’t you think we should cancel our trip to Colorado?” It was the beginning of March 2020—a time when COVID-19 diagnoses were ramping up but before stay at home orders were mandated. I knew my cautious millennial daughter was right.

Reluctant to miss a good mother-daughter bonding opportunity, I suggested something I knew would appeal to her—a virtual exploration of Texas ghost towns together. We discovered our mutual love for experiencing off-the-beaten path places after visiting Dartmoor National Park in Devon, England, featuring rocky tors, meandering mists, and storybook villages with thatched roof cottages that dot the moor. After some discussion, we decided to each choose a ghost town to research then explore together online during a video chat. Audrey selected a town called Barstow. She kicked off our virtual tour by filling me in on the town’s history. “After the Texas and Pacific Railway reached the area in 1881, George E. Barstow—a land developer and irrigation pioneer—set his sights on creating a planned community of privately owned small fruit farms irrigated by water diverted from the Pecos River,” she explained. The farms were centered around what became the town of Barstow, which served as the community center and social gathering place. At one point Barstow boasted schools, churches, a hotel, an opera house, a newspaper, a bank, a Masonic lodge, and even a power plant to generate electricity. “Barstow’s dream didn’t last long,” my daughter said. “Droughts and floods drove the farmers away and the town’s population dwindled.”

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| june 2020

adventure | GHOSTS OF TRAVELS PAST

She first showed me photos of the town in its heyday. A picture of a baptism in a creek in Barstow piqued our interest. More than 50 people had gathered for the occasion. Ladies in long dresses shaded themselves from the scorching Texas sun with umbrellas. If we had not studied the old picture closely, we could have missed Barstow’s monolithic red sandstone Ward County courthouse appearing distant and faded in the background like a ghostly apparition—a foreshadowing of the community’s eventual demise and the county seat moving to Monahans. Next, we viewed current pictures of Barstow’s main street in dilapidated ruins. A curious interior photograph of the old café and general store, the Modern Food Market, showed equipment in disarray and some furnishings still in place, such as built-in diner booths. As the story goes, the place shut down so quickly the fryers were left full of grease. “I can’t imagine how Barstow felt as his dream disappeared before his eyes,” my daughter commented, “and for the people who moved there who had hopes and dreams of their own.” Barstow, which had a population of 349 at the 2010 census, serves as a poignant reminder that despite man’s efforts, Mother Nature often prevails. This seemed a fitting message as we sheltered in place during a global pandemic. My chosen ghost town, Glenrio, was a popular pitstop on the iconic Route 66. One of its claims to fame is that the 1940 movie The Grapes of Wrath was filmed in Glenrio for three weeks. Straddling Texas and New Mexico, Glenrio is another small town initially born from our country’s railway system expansion. In 1901 the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad came through the area. Glenrio popped up two years later. By 1920, it had a hotel, grocery stores, a hardware store, service stations, cafés, a newspaper, and a land office. When Interstate 40 was built, bypassing the small community, Glenrio’s fate

june 2020

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adventure | GHOSTS OF TRAVELS PAST

was sealed. Today, the remains of a motel, water well house, post office, store, and train tracks are left behind. “Folks made the most of living in a community on the Texas/ New Mexico state line,” I shared with my daughter. “Texas’ Deaf Smith County was dry, so the bars were on the New Mexico side of town. The service stations, however, were in Texas because the state’s gas prices were lower than New Mexico’s.” Even the mail system was split. The mail arrived at a railroad stop in Texas, while the post office was in New Mexico. Looking at a collection of Glenrio pictures, we viewed empty, decaying buildings—an old motel, a gas station, the post office. A photo of a diminutive, Art Moderne-style structure with an El Camino parked by the side of the building caught our attention. We learned that the Little Juarez Café, built in 1952, stayed open until 1975—10 years before Route 66 was officially decommissioned. “Wouldn’t it be great to time travel and sit inside that café for a while? I’d love to hear the stories of Route 66 travelers passing through,” my daughter commented. “That would be cool,” I replied, imagining we would pull up in a car with gleaming chrome, AM radio cranked up. Oh, and I’d sit at the counter and order a slice of homemade banana cream pie with a cup o’ Joe. At the end, our mini virtual tour was more fun than either of us thought it would be. The best part is that I know she will always remember how we made a couple of tall glasses of lemonade out of the lemons the pandemic threw at our trip—and came away with an experience we’d never have had otherwise.

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| june 2020

EXPERIENCE THE FASCINATING

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WHAT’S IN A NAME? For women, the memories that come with someone’s name contain much more detail— and here’s why BY DAVID BUICE

Most of us have had the awkward experience—often at the worst possible time—of struggling to remember the name of someone we’ve recently met. But some recent studies have shown that the odds are greater you’ll bring the name up from your memory bank if you’re a female rather than a male.

to ask a man—it’s a stereotype, but one that bears out some truth in this particular instance.

Episodic memory

Men and women recruited for the Canadian study were shown dozens of pictures of randomly selected faces with names attached, and told to remember them.

Though memory is essential to human existence, recent scientific studies have concluded there are distinct differences between females and males in what we remember and how we remember it. One key type of memory is what scientists call “episodic memory,” defined as consciously recollected memories related to personally experienced events. A Swedish study conducted in 2008 concluded that women have a slight advantage in episodic memory, but that advantage varies depending on what kinds of things are to be remembered. Specifically, the study indicated that women appear to do better remembering speech, where they left something, and what happened in a movie or television program. In contrast, men seem better at recalling abstract information and navigation data. In other words, if you need driving directions, it’s probably better

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| june 2020

Recollecting those names In a memory study conducted at Canada’s McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, researchers concluded that women are better than men in recalling the names of individuals they’ve recently met.

Researchers then divided the participants into two groups. They tested one group on their face/name recall after one day and the second group after a four-day interval. Women in the one-day group did much better than men in putting

names with the faces they had seen the day before. Women in the four-day group also did better than their male counterparts, though the difference was not as great as with the one-day participants. Explaining the difference So, how did the researchers explain the superior ability of women to accurately put names with the faces they had recently encountered? The eye-tracking technology used in the study provided an answer to this question. Recording eye movements as participants looked at the faces, the technology showed that compared with men, women have an innate knack for fixating on the eyes, nose, and mouth of someone they’ve just met, a tendency that appears to give them an advantage in remembering the names that go with the faces they’ve recently encountered. As Jennifer Heisz, one of the research leaders explained, “The

way we move our eyes across a new individual’s face affects our ability to recognize that individual later. We discovered that women look more at new faces than men do, which allows them to create a richer and more superior memory.” “The results open the possibility that changing our eye movement pattern may lead to better memory,” explained David Shore, one of Heisz’s research colleagues. “Increased scanning may prove to be a simple strategy to improve face memory in the general public, especially for individuals with memory impairment, like older adults.” This skill in scanning faces is subconscious for women as humans do not normally notice where their eyes fixate. But even though we may not consciously realize what we’re doing, these findings could shed light on how to better remember the names of people we meet. In short, when it comes to names and faces, scan more to recall more.

june 2020

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cuisine

H E AT I N G U P ! THIS MONTH WE BRING YOU FLATBREADS, BROWNIES, AND BISCUITS FROM A FEW LEADING FOOD BLOGGERS, RECIPE DEVELOPERS, AND COOKBOOK AUTHORS BASED IN TEXAS BY M E LI S S A TATE

TATE FARMS CAST IRON

BISCUITS ON BISCUIT BOARD M A K ES : 1 L A R G E B OA R D , A B O U T 8 S E R V I N G S , P L U S 1 8 B I S C U I TS | T I M E : 1 0 M I N ( + 3 5 M I N FO R B I S C U I TS ) FOR THE BISCUITS: 2 cups flour | 4½ tsp. baking powder | ¼ tsp. baking soda | 1½ tsp. sugar | ¾ tsp. salt | 1 stick very cold butter | ¾ cup cold milk | 1 stick butter, melted DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 450 °F. IN A LARGE BOWL, combine all dry ingredients with a wooden spoon or spatula. WITH A SHARP KNIFE, cut cold butter into ½ Tbsp. pieces. USING a pastry cutter or fork, combine the butter into the dry mixture. THE MIXTURE will be dry with little chunks of butter about the size of a pinto or lima bean. SPREAD the mixture up the sides of the bowl, creating a well. Add half of the milk into the center of the bowl and stir, incorporating the dry mix little by little. ADD remaining milk and carefully combine, making sure to not break down the butter completely. POUR dough out onto a floured surface and shape into a square. CUT into 1½” x 1½” squares and place in cast iron pan. BAKE 20-25 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown. AS SOON AS you remove from oven, drizzle with melted butter. LET COOL slightly before serving. TO ASSEMBLE THE BISCUIT BOARD: cast iron biscuits, as prepared, cooked bacon | cooked sausage patties | cheese triangles | fresh fruit | sausage gravy | strawberry jam | apricot jelly | blackberry jelly | butter | honey DIRECTIONS: KEEP sausage, bacon, biscuits, and gravy warm until time to place on board. ARRANGE small jars of jams, jelly, and honey on board. ARRANGE cheese in one corner. ADD bacon, sausage, and gravy to board. PLACE warm biscuits down the center of the board. ADD butter and fresh fruit. MAKE sure to put servingware on board for jams, jellies, honey, butter, and gravy. Biscuit binspired by Maegan Brown of The Baker Mama. Maegan lives in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex and published her first cookbook in September of last year. She is a mother to four and the queen of amazing yet easy to create food boards. Find out more about Maegan at TheBakerMama.com.

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| june 2020

Smiles YOU LOVE. CONVENIENCE You NEED. 817-473-6677

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*Unless certain dental conditions exist *Oï¬&#x20AC;er valid for new patients only

Dr. Kim Le Monday & Friday 8:00am-4:00pm

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june 2020

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cuisine

PROSCI UTTO AND GREENS

SKILLET FLATBREAD M A K ES : 4 S M A L L F L AT B R E A D S | T I M E : 5 M I N INGREDIENTS: 4 store bought miniature naan flatbreads | 4 oz. package goat cheese | prosciutto, slices, torn into 2-3 pieces each | arugula and spinach mix, roughly chopped | honey, optional DIRECTIONS: HEAT a cast iron skillet over medium heat. WARM up flatbreads in skillet REMOVE from skillet. Spread goat cheese on naan. TOP WITH prosciutto and greens. DRIZZLE with honey if desired. Recipe inspired by Rebecca White of A Pleasant Little Kitchen. Rebecca lives in Dallas and is frequently featured in the Arts & Life section of The Dallas Morning News. Her recipes are the perfect combination of Southern and sophisticated. You can find her recipes at APleasantLittleKitchen.com.

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| june 2020

cuisine | HEATING UP!

SM ALL BATCH

BROWNIES MAKES: 2 LARGE BROWNIES | TIME: 30 MINUTES INGREDIENTS: 4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, diced | ½ cup + 1 Tbsp. granulated sugar | ¼ cup + 1 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder | ¼ tsp. salt | ½ tsp. vanilla extract | 1 large egg | ¼ cup all-purpose flour | ¼ cup semi sweet chocolate chips DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 325 °F. Spray 9”x5” loaf pan with a little nonstick spray and line with parchment paper. IN A MICROWAVE SAFE BOWL, combine butter, sugar and cocoa powder. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir and microwave another 30 seconds. Remove and stir well. ADD salt and vanilla. Stir for 1 minute to cool the mixture. ADD egg and stir until combined. FINALLY, add flour and stir until completely combined. SPREAD batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle chocolate chips on top. BAKE for 23 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out with fudge crumbs clinging to it. LET COOL completely in the pan, then lift out using parchment paper. SLICE in half and serve. Recipe inspired by Christina Lane of Dessert for Two. Christina lives in North Texas and is a mom to two young children, the author of four cookbooks, and a phenomenal recipe developer for smaller serving meals. She works on much more than just dessert!. Check her out at DessertForTwo.com.

PHOTOS & FOOD BY

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

@MELISSATATETX

june 2020

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| june 2020

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