April

PINWHEELS FOR A PURPOSE ||| BRIDAL ||| THE GREAT OUTDOORS April 2018

your community • your magazine

Today

Concours d’Elegance of Texas returns to Arlington Serving Arlington, Mansfield, Kennedale and SW Grand Prairie

2 Communities Over 100+ Model Homes Hundreds of Available Homes 20,001 Decorating Ideas Tour maps at DFWShowcaseofHomes.com . Homes from $250s-Mil+

www.dietsolutioncenters.com Dr. Richard R. Knight, M.D.

Before

Katy R. from Justin, Tx I was always starting some new diet or workout plan but never could seem to stick to it. I realized I needed some help to reach my goals because doing it on my own wasn’t working. I loved that DSC had a set plan that was easy for me to follow and get results consistently.

Since the program is based on eating real food I could eat out when I wanted, I could travel for my job and always find things that worked with my plan. Seeing the weight come off week after week kept me motivated and the staff at DSC was always willing to encourage me and keep me on track. I am so happy with my results and recommend this program often!

After

Katy lost 38 pounds in 21 weeks!*

.

$99 Initial Visit Expires 4/30/2018

MANSFIELD

*Individual results may vary.

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(At Walnut Creek in Tom Thumb Shopping Center)

(Next to Jazzy Jems)

(Next door to I-Fit Elite Gym)

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817-277-3438

740 S. Crowley Road, Suite 2

817-297-2100

While you focus on your baby’s happiness, we’ll focus on yours.

From luxury suites to delivery methods, childbirth classes and so much more – at Medical City Arlington, you can design a birthing experience just right for you and your baby. So while we focus on clinical excellence and specialized care, you can focus on creating the memory of a lifetime.

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Arlington | $350,000 | 4/3/3 Rekha McGee | 817-300-2383

226 Flushing Quail

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Arlington | $800,000 | 5/5.1/4 Magazzine - Cunningham Group | 817-654-8589

2504 Mandy Way

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2 Chelsea Drive

Fort Worth | $225,000 | 4/2.1/2 Mary Prunty | 817-994-1150

For more information, contact — ARLINGTON OFFICE 1201 West Green Oaks Blvd.

817-654-3737

MANSFIELD OFFICE 1600 Highway 287 N., Suite 100 682-422-0333

Facebook.com/EbbyHalliday

©2017. Equal Housing Opportunity.

UTA keeps on growing!

F

inishing touches are being made to the newest icons on campus at The University of Texas at Arlington. A new residential hall and a student center with a dining hall will meet the needs of

UTA’s ever-growing student population. More and more are choosing to live on campus to be close to classes, activities and events, and to enjoy the richness that campus life brings. These modern buildings will be complete this summer, just in time for the 2018-19 academic year!

WEST CAMPUS HALL

Over at the WEST CAMPUS STUDENT CENTER—on the northeast side of the Maverick Activities Center—students can sit down to eat outdoors and in the open concept first floor with natural lighting. Dining options include an allyou-care-to-eat Maverick Café, Starbucks, 2mato (Italian bistro), and Za’tar (Eastern Mediterranean cuisine). Group meeting rooms, study areas, and lounges make up the center’s second floor.

WEST CAMPUS PARKING GARAGE

The new WEST CAMPUS HALL—a $30.8 million facility—provides double-occupancy rooms with community kitchens and TV lounges on each floor. Conveniently located by the new student center and the Maverick Activities Center, the hall also features space for studying and other educational activities to make students feel at home. To see a virtual tour, go online now to uta.edu/housing/west-campus.

WEST CAMPUS STUDENT CENTER

The 1,500-space WEST CAMPUS PARKING GARAGE, north of the new student center, supports students living in the new residence hall, attending classes, and visiting the dining hall and Maverick Activities Center.

The garage is for all students with parking permits, except for the remote park-and-ride permits. Visitor and pay-by-hour stalls also are available on the lower level. Now open!

UTA.EDU

Contents

April 2018 • Volume 5 • Issue 4

Photo: Richard Greene

On the cover

26

28 26

34 26

46 26

52 26

54 26

For the second consecutive year, Arlington will host the Concours d’Elegance of Texas, on April 20-22, at various spots in the area. Check out some great classic cars in our cover story on page 28.

Departments Starting Line ... 12 • This ‘n Data ... 14 Scene ... 22, 56, 68 • Around Town ... 24 Style ... 36 • Tennis Tip ... 70 Dining Guide ... 72 • Health/Fitness ... 74 Sights/Sounds ... 76 • Speaking of Sports ... 78 Itinerary ... 80 • Finish Line ... 82

Highlights 26 Kudos for a job well done, Mr. Mayor The Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA honors Jeff Williams as it celebrates its 60th birthday.

28 The classics station The Concours d’Elegance of Texas returns to Arlington – bigger and better than ever.

34 The (pin)wheels of progress The Junior League of Arlington is raising awareness of child abuse in Tarrant County.

38 All about weddings Here’s your guide to local resources that will help ensure that your wedding will be perfect.

40 My wedding, my story Annie Franchek shares memories of her recent marriage to Matthew Cox – at The Sanford House.

46 Home SWEET! Home Check out the renovation Mayor Jeff Williams and his wife Karen recently undertook on their home.

52 A happy 50th birthday Child Care Associates has served more than half a million children over the years.

54 Giving it the NEW college try Arlington Collegiate High School is helping local students earn a diploma and a degree at the same time.

Special focus: Bridal This month, we continue our annual April tradition and turn the spotlight on weddings. Discover local resources that help make the bride’s day even more special, and read all about a recent wedding, beginning on page 38.

58 The great outdoors Things to do and places to go, now that the calendar has turned to spring.

64 Head of the class UTA’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation produces the most registered nurses in Texas.

66 Community Corner Helping Restore Ability is literally changing lives. Find out how.

10

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

At WADE FAMILY FUNERAL HOME our family believes while we all will one day lose someone we love, there are no two families, no two funerals exactly alike.

The needs of your family will vary. The grief process for each individual will be unique.

At this very difficult time, in the face of making such important decisions, the Wade Family knows you need peace of mind and the comfort that comes with the fact that your family matters most to us.

Our Arlington family is here for you.

4140 W. Pioneer Pkwy. • Arlington, Tx 76013 • 817-274-9233 wadefamilyfuneralhome.com

Starting Line EXECUTIVE BOARD Executive Publisher Judy M. Rupay CEO Richard Greene

Reflecting

EDITORIAL Editor Yale Youngblood

Celebrating nearly five years of celebrating the Arlington area

I

n this space in the first issue of this magazine (dated Sept./Oct. 2013), someone who looked a lot like me made the following proclamation: “Beginning with this issue, this cutting-edge publication will tell the Arlington story as never before, as each issue will commemorate the vibrant, distinctive persona of the city we call home to our family, business and cultural endeavors. For every edition we’ll explore interesting nooks and provocative crannies. We’ll party with the movers and shakers – and visit with the pertinent newsmakers. We’ll chronicle the best of the best, whether it’s culture, politics, entertainment, cuisine, sports and recreation, or the proverbial ‘more.’ And we’ll share what we find in a fun, compelling manner – just so you can say you finally have a publication that ‘really gets’ Arlington.”

Hold on to that thought. I have a theory I want to throw out there before I get to the point of this missive. It goes like this: Once you reach significant adulthood, no matter how old you really are, your perception of who you are stays fixed on who you were as a younger person. If, for instance, your “salad days” took place when you were 21-25, that’s the “you” by which all future “you’s” will be measured. However, as you age, when you look in the mirror the “you” that stares back doesn’t Yale Youngblood, Editor always resemble the “you” that is the measuring stick. And you might find yourself wondering what became of “you.”

Well ... here’s what has become of Arlington Today, nearly five years after that dashingly handsome young man wrote the first column describing what readers and advertisers could expect in the future: This month, we’re spotlighting the greatest automobile show ever to grace the city. We’re also leading a tour of the home of one of the greater mayors ever to grace the city. In recent issues, we had a ball with Cinderella, examined practically every rivet in the soon-to-open Texas Live! entertainment complex, and celebrated the recent resounding successes not only of area school districts but of the largest major institution of higher learning in the Metroplex, the University of Texas at ARLINGTON(!).

We updated you on what local-kid-turned star Kirstin Maldonado of Pentatonix fame has in the works – after sharing the latest achievements of another local prodigy, Maren Morris. And we gave you monthly access to scrumptious recipes, tennis tips and styles that are all the rage.

In the meantime, our management team and staff was popping up virtually everywhere Arlington, Mansfield, Kennedale and Grand Prairie area newsmakers chose to convene – at ballgames, at fundraisers, at meetings that help dictate the very future of this community. We did that because we know you will be there. And we still want to tell the story of you.

For the record, we think you look good in the mirror. We should know. We are the mirror.

yale@arlingtontoday.com

Visit arlingtontoday.com, like us on Facebook 12

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

and follow us on Twitter

and Instagram

Contributing Editor Marla Thomas Sports Columnist John Rhadigan Style Editor Tricia Schwartz Website & Social Media Manager Courtney Lackner McCoy Contributing Graphic Artists Susan Darovich, Susan Youngblood Contributing Writers Michele Duskin, Karen Gavis, Bill Lace, Kenneth Perkins, Toni Randle-Cook, Amanda Rogers Contributing Photographers Gary Coots, Hasson Diggs, Dwayne Lee, Heather Lee, Bruce Maxwell Toni Randle-Cook, Amanda Rogers SALES / CIRCULATION Business Manager Bridget Dean Sales Managers Laura DiStefano, Amy Lively, Andrea Proctor, Debbie Roach, Tricia Schwartz Distribution Manager Logan Taylor PRODUCTION Production Manager Susan Darovich ARLINGTON TODAY is published monthly. Copyright 2018 Arlington Today, Inc., 1000 Ballpark Way, Suite 308, Arlington, TX 76011. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without permission of the publisher.

The inclusion of advertising is considered a service to readers and is not an endorsement of products.

Basic subscriptions are $33.95 for 12 issues (price includes tax and shipping). E-mail subscriptions@arlingtontoday.com

• Phone number: (817) 303-3304

Obstetrics/Gynecology

Women’s Health Services now in two Arlington locations: Women caring for women Women’s Health Services is excited to announce that in addition to providing patient care in both north and south Arlington, we also provide state-of-the-art maternity care in the newly renovated labor and delivery suites at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital (THAM). THAM is ranked among the best hospitals in Dallas-Fort Worth, and was awarded American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet status, an award that recognizes hospitals that provide nursing excellence.

In 2017, Women’s Health Services won Suburban Parent magazines’ award for Best Of Family Healthcare

in Obstetrics And Gynecology, as well as DFW Child Magazine’s Mom-Approved Doctors award for OB/GYN. The doctors of Women’s Health Services provide full OB/ GYN services and are skilled in managing all aspects of women’s health care, such as normal and high risk pregnancy care, gynecologic surgery, incontinence treatment, annual exams, and contraceptive and hormone therapy needs. Their goal is to provide quality care with high patient satisfaction. Visit our new website and make your appointments online at www.womenshealthservices.com. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Women’s Health Services doctor spotlight: Dr. Dawnette Peppler Dr. Dawnette Peppler grew up in Kearney, Nebraska, and she went to University of Nebraska at Kearney for college. She attended the University of Nebraska Medical Center for both medical school and residency in OB/GYN. After spending her whole life in Nebraska, she decided to move out of state to find a practice opportunity in 2000, and she’s worked at Women’s Health Services ever since.

Dr. Peppler is a strong proponent of comprehensive medical practice, with a special emphasis on obstetrics and breast feeding. She is skilled in surgical techniques, including in-office hysteroscopy, Essure procedures, and Nexplanon insertions. She and her husband, Donnie, have four daughters. Dr. Peppler enjoys doing home projects when she’s not juggling all the family activities.

Dr. Dawnette Peppler

Dr. Peppler primarily sees patients at Women Health Services’ North Office, adjacent to Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital, where the group performs all deliveries and surgical procedures. Call 817-277-9415 or visit our website at www.womenshealthservices.com to book an appointment today.

North Office:

South Office:

1001 N. Waldrop, Suite 505 Arlington, TX 76012

5005 S. Cooper St, Suite 275 Arlington, TX 76017

Phone 817-277-9415 • Fax 817-277-0360 Email info@womenshealthservices.com

This ‘n Data

Fake news and how it percolates: Up next at Arlington on Tap

T

he world of fake news has grown ever larger and more complex – indeed, more sinister and conspiratorially – since Fort Worth Business Press Editor Robert Francis agreed to provide an enlightenment session on the topic for April’s Arlington on Tap lecture and happy hour event.

“Even now there’s mass confusion about how fake or distorted news makes its way into the information flow of our country, how it spreads and what the motivation is,” Francis says. “I’ll do my best to make it clear what’s happening.”

The time and place: April 10, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Division Brewing, 506 E. Main St. RSVP not required.

Francis became editor of the Fort Worth

Robert Francis, editor of the Fort Worth Business Press, will address a popular topic at this month’s Arlington on Tap at Division Brewing: fake news.

Business Press in late 2007, that after five years at the newspaper covering finance, energy and technology. His reporting resulted in his winning numerous awards for his work, in particular his coverage of the financial and environmental impact of the Barnett Shale and the resultant natural gas boom. The Business Press has received

Spring plant sale The Arlington Garden Club will present the Fielder Plant Sale from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. on April 21 at Fielder House Museum (1616 W. Abram). For more: alturl.com/d9iur

14

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

numerous state and national awards, including recent “Best in Texas” recognition by the Texas Press Association under Francis’ leadership. Before the Business Press, Francis was an award-winning contributor to a number of publications, including American Way Magazine, BrandWeek and InfoWorld. He’s also now considered one of the leading experts on the alleged rise of fake news.

With the little spare time available when he isn’t running the Business Press news operation, Francis is a playwright and documentary filmmaker.

Arlington on Tap is sponsored by the Arlington Historical Society, Arlington Proud and Arlington Today Magazine.

ARTISTS! T

DAMC is looking for people to create new mural project

he Downtown Arlington Management Corporation has received a $25,000 Cultural Tourism grant from the Arlington Cultural Tourism Council to support the launch event for a new initiative, the Downtown Arlington Mural Project. The goal of the project is to stimulate the creation of a series of murals throughout Downtown Arlington and dedicate them through a public event to be held in Fall 2018.

“Studies show that tourists want to engage with locals through immersive experiences,” says Aldo Fritz, president and CEO of DAMC. “We foresee that the launch of the Downtown Arlington Mural Project will positively impact the decision to travel to Arlington by individuals, families, art patrons, history buffs, and other visitors who are driven to experience unique landmarks and engage with them via social media story-telling.”

Fritz says the project also will help lead to a broader Urban Art Initiative, “one that will allow us to visually connect the dots throughout Downtown. Through this comprehensive approach, we can directly and positively impact the reputation, status and place-making of the Arlington Cultural District as a hub for creative activity as well as a compelling tourist destination.”

For information regarding the current call for artists to participate in the project, visit the Downtown Arlington Management Corporation website, downtownarlington.org.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2017 TOP PRODUCERS E B B Y ’ S

MAGAZZINE CUNNINGHAM GROUP COMPANYWIDE HONOR ROLL

A R L I N G T O N

KATHY LAKATTA

COMPANYWIDE HONOR ROLL COMPANYWIDE VIP AWARD RUNNER-UP VIP CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD/MANSFIELD

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VIP CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD ARLINGTON / RUNNER-UP

VIP CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD MANSFIELD / RUNNER-UP

MARY PRUNTY

JANE HAYNES

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EBBY AWARD

O F F I C E S

DEBBIE KERSCHEN

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VIP CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD / ARLINGTON

SUZANNE KEY

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For more information, contact —

Suzanne McCabe at 817-654-8453

EBBY.COM ©2018. Equal Housing Opportunity.

This ‘n Data

The race is on ...

On your mark

Get Set

Go! Photo: Richard Greene

Run, walk and help others

1st marathon to be held here

This one’s just for the kids

The River Legacy Park 5K Walk and Fun Run to End Infant Mortality will take place at 8 a.m. on April 7 at River Legacy Park (701 N.W. Green Oaks Blvd.).

The run/walk, hosted by the NTO Annang Foundation, is a familyand pet-friendly event.

Runners are urged to solicit donations before the run that, along with money from entry fees, will benefit local NTO Annang Foundation initiatives. The nonprofit organization helps local families and individuals meet a variety of health and basic living needs. For more: ntoannangdfwtx.org.

The Inaugural Arlington Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K Run/Walk will be held at 7 a.m. on April 8, starting and finishing at the University of Texas at Arlington’s Maverick Stadium (1307 W Mitchell St.) Runners and race walkers from all over the community – from the competitive to the beginner – are welcome to register to participate. Race packets may be picked up early at The Runner Shop (3535 W. Pioneer Pkwy.) or onsite on the day of the event.

Awards will be presented in a variety of categories. For more: alturl.com/oby94.

The Conquer Youth™ Young Lions Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course competition will be held April 21 at Vandergriff Park, 2800 S. Center St. The event is an epic ninja-style obstacle course event for youths who run, jump, crawl, climb and swing through fun and challenging obstacles. The course will be some 1.5 miles long and will feature 10 signature Conquer Youth obstacles.

All kids receive a finisher shirt, medal, and wristband, as well as free photos. For more information, email contact@conqueryouth.com.

The City Council convened for the first time in its new Chamber, which opened last month.

Dignitaries cut the ribbon on a new multi-use City Council Chamber

T

he City of Arlington recently held a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Council Chamber. During the ceremony the Chamber’s dedication plaque was unveiled.

The 6,500-square-foot Council Chamber, which will better meet the City’s accessibility and technology needs, was built as part of the $34 million Downtown Library project.

The 196-seat facility replaces the former 35-year-old Council Chamber demolished in 2016. The new Council Chamber will also be used for Planning and Zoning Commission meetings, as well as provide a community room available for library programming, public meetings and other events.

City announces plans for innovative new esports stadium T

he City of Arlington recently announced plans for a state-of-the-art esports stadium designed to draw competitive players and fans from around the world.

The 100,000-square- foot space, which would be the largest and most flexible esports stadium in the country, is set to open its doors this fall in Arlington’s Entertainment District.

Mayor Jeff Williams announced the city’s innovative venture with Esports Venues, 16

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

LLC, during a March news conference at the Arlington Convention Center, which would become home to Esports Stadium Arlington.

“Being on the forefront of new ideas and setting trends is in our DNA and part of who we are as The American Dream City,” Williams said. “Esports Stadium Arlington will further cement our city’s status as a national and international tourist destination.

Players and fans will come here for the

tournaments and they’ll stay even longer to experience everything Arlington has to offer.”

By collaborating with award-winning sports and entertainment architecture firm Populous, the City of Arlington and Esports Venues, LLC, plan to invest $10 million into the Arlington Convention Center to transform it into a stadium that offers the most immersive spectator experience in the live esports event market.

Trusted care for women of all ages.

Miles was born on Dec. 29, 2010, at 28 weeks and weighed only 2½ pounds. A week after she was discharged from the hospital, Dianna Kleeman’s health took a dangerous turn when she developed blood clots and was experiencing heart failure. Thanks to the advanced care of the Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the lifesaving specialists at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, Diana and Miles are doing great.

The family returns to the hospital every year on Miles’ birthday with homemade food and gifts for the staff and is forever grateful. Trust. Methodist.

“They not only saved our lives, but they helped us in our time of need. I cherish every triumph we’ve had. We are alive because of Methodist Mansfield.”

— Dianna Kleeman

Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, Methodist Health System, or any of its affiliated hospitals. Methodist Health System complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

This ‘n Data

WATERSHED moments?

Photo: uni-watch.com

RAISE YOUR HAND if you cheered for the Texas Rangers when they wore these road uniforms.

Photo: City of Arlington

Photos: River Legacy Foundation

29th annual Cardboard Boat Regatta to be held at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

T

he 29th annual Cardboard Boat Regatta will take place from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on April 21 at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor.

The popular event, which raises money to support environmental education at River Legacy Living Science Center and River Legacy Parks, challenges amateur boat builders – youth and adult – to design, build and navigate boats made entirely of corrugated cardboard.

The crafty cardboard creations then sail (or sink!) in Hurricane Harbor’s Wave Pool as they compete for a variety of trophies.

Spectators usually have as much fun as the participants, cheering on the courageous crews and soaking up the event-day activities.

In addition to hosting the regatta, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor will open a few select rides, such as the Tornado, Tsunami Surge, Typhoon Twister and Hook’s Lagoon.

3 Scoops 18

For the Regatta participants, there are a few rules that govern the proceedings. Boaters must be 8 years old, and crews can consist of 1 to 10 members. Entries can also include Class II mechanical boats, which use muscle-powered propulsion systems (propellers, paddle wheels, sails) and steering systems (rudders) that do not need to be made of cardboard.

Winning boats are awarded trophies that include Fastest Finish; Best of Show; and Rah, Rah – as well as Titanic, for the most spectacular sinking.

While many participants spend days – even weeks – crafting their boats, participants can sign up on event day for “Class III Build on Site” to construct a Guppy (2-person) boat in just two hours.

For more: riverlegacy.org/cardboard-boatregatta.

#atpetofthemonth Zippy is a lion mane bunny. She is 5 months old and will enjoy spending Easter with her new family, the Livelys. Her sister bunny is DooDa. Zippy and DooDa live together in their cozy hutch. They love eating fresh spinach, lettuce and greens from the Lively garden.

1. United Way of Tarrant County’s

2. The University of Texas at

3. The Abram Street rebuild through

Arlington Report to the Community

Arlington, in partnership with the

Downtown Arlington began last month.

Luncheon will take place at noon

University of North Texas Health

The Arlington City Council awarded

on April 11 at the Mediterranean

Science Center, recently launched

a $26.1 million contract with Rebcon

Villa located in Arlington. At this

the North Texas Genome Center

Inc. of Dallas to rebuild Abram Street

event, United Way will highlight the

housed on the UTA campus. The

between Cooper and Collins streets.

collaborative spirit and problem-solving

NTGC will provide important facilities

The first phase includes removal of the

partnerships that impacted the Arlington

to spur growth in the region’s rapidly

traffic island at the corner of Cooper

community the most over the past year.

expanding biotech sector of genome

and Abram streets and the installation

For more: 214-683-9338.

research.

of temporary lanes on part of the street.

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO SUPPORT US IN BUILDING A BETTER COMMUNITY‌TOGETHER. Since our YMCA doors opened in 1958, our commitment to improving lives in our community has only continued to grow. We have been able to utilize our services and resources for the Arlington-Mansfield Area residents through the generosity and partnership of many friends who firmly believe in our mission. As the Y continues to make an impact, we hope for your commitment & support to building a better community‌together.

Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA

2017 COMMUNITY IMPACT 1,134

Volunteer coaches in our YMCA Youth Sports Programs

OVER

84,500 Free Meals

served to children in our childcare programs

Staying Active

Children remained physically active through YMCA sports programs

3,059 Thriving Kids

in Financial Assistance

was awarded to over

4,184 children, families, Annual Giving Tree

149 Children were given gifts during Christmas

1,063 Youth learned to lead and rose to new challenges at summer day camp

Students took part in Before & After School Childcare Number of children who joined our Youth & Wellness Program

and adults

Growing Together

Backpacks & school supplies were given to children in AISD & MISD

Teens participated in the statewide Youth & Government Program

9,334

$440,677

500

90

436

97

Safe Swimmers

Adults took part in our Diabetes Prevention Program

2,912

Children developed their skills in swimming programs

6,357

Healthy Aging

Seniors participated in our Active Older Adult Program

Help us change lives in our community Donate now: amaymca.org/support-the-y

310 Fathers & their children bonded through Father/Child Program

Happenings in the Arlington Independent School District • aisd.net

AISD Spread

Happenings in the Arlington Independent School District • aisd.net

Scene Snapshots from the Arlington ISD Ann Morris Dream Makers Banquet, from the Mansfield Cares Charity Ball, from the Legal Draft Beer Company St. Patrick’s Day Party and from the Miracle League Step Up to the Plate Gala

Dave Winston and Joan Winston

Photo: AISD

Photos courtesy of Mansfield Cares

Dan Dipert and Diane Patrick, who was honored with the Dan Dipert Legacy Award at the AISD Dream Makers event

Darrik Johnson and Haley Johnson

Lisa Stewart and Kelsey Barton at the annual Mansfield Cares Charity Ball

Jodie Owens and Marnee Camp

Photos courtesy of Miracle League DFW

Photo courtesy of Legal Draft Beer Co.

Kelley and Holland Vander Veen at the Legal Draft party

Miracle League players Asa Gutierrez, Felicita Pinon and Brooklyn Gibson

22

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Pam, Chad and Dacie Householder

J Hutcherson, Denise Hutcherson and Miracle league Executive Director Grace Whetstone

Miracle League players Ryan Partridge, Emma Eastman and Nick Bailey

A dedicated cemetery bonded in perpetuity offering a dignified resting place.

Burlway Gardens

Accommodations for family unity plots or niches are now available.

An exceptional setting to honor and remember your loved ones Burlway Gardens Association

400 Burl Ray Street Mansfield, Texas 76063 682.518.6091 Columbariums Sunrise, Garden & Plaza

burlwaygardens@burlwaygardens.com www.burlwaygardens.com

Located in historic Mansfield

Distinctive Burial Gardens Honor, Hope, Devotion, Peace & Serenity

JUNE 14-16, 2018

MEE T GUATEMALEN ARTIST REYNA PRETZANTZIN OF MULTICOLORES’ MAYA WOMEN’S RUG HOOKING COOPER ATIVE, AT THE MARKE T!

International Folk Art Market Arlington

PHOTOS: MICHA EL BENANAV & COURTESY OF ARTI ST

THE GREEN AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON

Eat, Shop, Change the World TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION AT FOLKARTMARKET.ORG/ARLINGTON

VIP Shopping THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 7-11PM The Market

A program of

International Folk Art Market Santa Fe

FR IDAY, JUNE 15, 8AM -8PM SATUR DAY, JUNE 16, 8AM -2PM

arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

23

Around Town

Where you can still be a kid The Metroplex Senior Softball Association gives ballplayers a chance to keep playing ball • By Kenneth Perkins

T

he idea of lounging on a couch sipping green tea after retirement is actually an enticing option following a demanding career doing “You Fill In The Blank.”

Then the next day arrives.

Can’t say Dennis Bashore wrestled with this quandary, but after traveling nearly non-stop for Hewitt Packard, he was all set to downshift to neutral.

That was 11 years ago.

Since then he’s been having a heck of a (good) time trying to find his body’s turbo-power switch. Gotta be there somewhere. Extra oomph certainly helps when trying to stretch a base hit into a double or beating out that grounder to short.

Bashore is still quite nimble for a 71-year-old, though what he sees his body doing and what it actually does are often at odds.

Still, Bashore is quite content on a baseball diamond with his peeps, other ballers who also compete in the Metroplex Senior Citizens Softball Association, which now has 31 teams in 16 cities and three divisions – players 55, 55 and up, and 65 and up, including 91-year-old Johnny Williams and an 80-something player who competed with an oxygen tank strapped to his back.

The league grows mainly via word of mouth, Photo: Kenneth Perkins says Jim Delmar, 82, MSCSA treasurer and manager of the J. Gilligan’s-sponsored Arlington Angels.

“Sometimes you’ll see someone in the gym who looks relatively healthy and just ask, ‘you play sports?”

They are often enticed by the rules, which center on bodily protection. No sliding, no contact. Extra bases are off to the sides of other bases, giving runners a clear path. Can’t run? A teammate can run for you.

Delmar doesn’t play much any more, not since that 2010 operation that put a pair of titanium rods in his back. “So I just manage and coach,” Delmar says. “Although the guys know what to do. I tell them to do something, and they say; ‘nah, I’ll do it my way.’ We have a good time, though.”

They do. Good-natured one-liners zip around this lively bunch; usually the barbs deal with age (“Ten years ago you would have

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

caught that!” one player heckles another), and often the jokes are a form of self-deprecation. Watching the Angels battle the Grand Prairie Gophers in a pre-season game was a little like sitting in on a Rodney Dangerfield concert.

No one (wink, wink) got respect.

There is something gloriously humbling when you’re all in the same boat. As one Angel player put it, “We’re experts in surgeries – hips, backs, knees, since we’ve all had one or two. Or three.”

Of course, boys will still be boys, so the more “serious” players find such wordy repartee distracting. Delmar says to each his own, but he thinks it is far more This MSCSA player flashes some glove. fun to play for fun.

That’s the story with Edith Brown, 55 and one of the few women on the roster. Quick with a strong arm, she’s been playing shortstop on traveling teams. Colleges didn’t have much in the way of women’s softball in her day.

“This was my dad’s favorite sport, so he drafted me as a little girl and taught me all I know,” says Brown, who runs a non-profit shelter for abused families. “Being out here with these guys is absolutely wonderful.”

Ken Nelson, 73, hadn’t played the sport in years but returned after retiring from his metal stamping business.

“Man, what fun, and not just because I kinda like this bunch of cranky, grumpy guys on walkers,” he says, laughing.

Bashore likes them, too.

“What you don’t know about retirement is that the moment you leave work the 20 friends you had dissolves,” he says. “Being secretary of the league I’ve made 40 to 50 friends.”

That’s not even the coolest thing.

“I’m 71 years old and still playing a kids game,” he says before taking the field. “Don’t get any better than that.”

Columnist Kenneth Perkins has been a contributing writer for Arlington Today since it debuted. He is a freelance writer, editor and photographer.

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Local Heroes

Kudos for a job well done, MR. MAYOR

Mayor Jeff Williams served in many capacities with the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA.

As the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA celebrates its 60th birthday, it presents Jeff Williams a leadership award • By Karen Gavis

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L

ong before taking rein of Arlington, Mayor Jeff Williams served as a leader for many of the city’s nonprofits, including the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.

To recognize and honor his dedication and leadership, the Y will present Williams with its second annual Bill and Shari Bowie Community Leadership Award during the YMCA’s annual meeting and anniversary celebration April 18 at Arlington Convention Center.

Williams says he’s surprised and excited to be recognized by the organization.

“Especially with an award named after the Bowies, who are great people who have contributed a lot to the Y and our community,” he says.

“The leadership award exemplifies a person in the Arlington and Mansfield area that has had a real impact in the community and who also has connections with the Y,” says YMCA interim CEO and President Irene Johnson. “We’re all excited. [Mayor Williams has] done an amazing job during his tenure, even before his tenure.”

Previously, Williams served on the YMCA’s Board of Directors, as well as in various other capacities within the organization, including youth softball, baseball, basketball and football coach, nation chief for the Y Princess program and tribal chief for the Y Guides program.

An engineer, Williams also worked on the design of the Cooper Street YMCA Family Center. He said the YMCA offers many services and programs through its facilities at economical fees to help meet the physical and spiritual needs of families.

“My family has so many great memories of campouts and activities in the Parent/Child programs and playing youth sports,” he says. “My two daughters and son often share that some of their favorite childhood memories were at Y campouts.”

Williams says that as nation chief of the Indian Princess program he worked with a great group of dads planning activities that would teach their daughters while deepening their father-anddaughter relationships and creating lifelong memories. “It was very rewarding for both me and my daughters,” he says. “So many of those dads and daughters are still good friends.”

Williams says he is looking forward to working with the new YMCA CEO once he or she is hired and continuing the great relationship between the Y and the City of Arlington.

Photo: City of Arlington “There are many needs of our families that the Y is so important in taking care of,” he says.

Johnson says the YMCA’s annual meeting gives the organization a chance to highlight all the great things that have taken place throughout the year and also celebrate great folks like Bill and Shari Bowie, whose namesake award was launched because of the profound impact that the couple’s service and generosity has had on the community.

“And now we are going to highlight the Mayor for all the things he’s done within the community,” she says, adding that a panel of local guests will be present during the event to talk about the impact that Williams’ leadership has had on the YMCA and on Arlington.

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Cover Story

Mike Ames and his son Alex pose with one of the stars of the upcoming Concours d’Elegance of Texas: Mike’s classic Packard.

Only 154 vehicles of this type were built, and about a dozen exist today, making it one of the rarer automobiles in the world.

Photos: Richard Greene

The CLASSICS station

The Concours d’Elegance of Texas returns to Arlington – bigger and better than ever • By Richard Greene

A

fter a successful debut last year, the Concours d’Elegance of Texas returns to Arlington’s entertainment district with new events and amazing classic cars to dazzle visitors with the remarkable worldwide history of the automobile.

It all unfolds during the three-day extravaganza from Friday through Sunday, April 20-22, with lots of opportunities for vehicle owners and spectators alike to experience in the midst of one of the country’s premier displays of vintage and collectable vehicles.

The significance of the experience is defined by the vision of the Concours founders, who planned it to educate and expose audiences young and old to the history, art, and engineering designs of the great automobiles from previous generations.

Such an occasion creates ongoing interest in these beautiful motorcars so they can be appreciated by today’s and future generations.

One terrific example of the kind of vehicles that will be on display is this 1931 Model 840 Deluxe Eight Roadster owned by the

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

chairman of the board of the Texas Concours, Arlington’s own Mike Ames.

I’ll let Mike describe this award winner that is unique in so many ways, but typical of the collectibles, and their stories, on the Sunday show field that will have come to Arlington from all over the country.

“In 1898, James Ward Packard paid $1,000, about $30,000 in today’s dollars, for a new Winton Automobile, considered the best of only a few makes available at the time. Today it would be considered a lemon, and Mr. Packard made several trips to the Winton factory in Cleveland with complaints and suggestions on how the car should be improved.

“Alexander Winton finally had seen and heard enough from his disgruntled customer and finally blurted out in anger, ‘If you are so damned smart, why don’t you build your own car!’

“Within a year, the name Packard appeared on a thoroughly modern car, and it became available to the public in 1900. This was

For all it doesn’t have (notably windows, heater or air conditioning and radio), Ames’ Packard has ample star power, as evidenced in this collection of photos. The engine is a huge, 385-cubic-inch, 120 H.P., straight eight that is coupled to a 4-speed manual transmission with a floor mounted shifter. arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

29

The Depression created an almost ‘war-like’ acceleration in automotive development because there was a surplus of low-cost manpower and materials. Demand was low, but the high-end cars were works of art.

This Packard has toured France, Germany and Switzerland and spent time in an extended exhibition at the Imperial Palace Auto Museum in Las Vegas.

the beginning of the marque that is now generally regarded as the finest American car produced prior to World War II. “That quality reached its zenith in the 1930s with a wide array of body configurations and options,” Ames says. “Ironically, the most expensive cars to ever grace American roads were built during the Great Depression.

“The depression created an almost ‘war-like’ acceleration in automotive development because there was a surplus of low-cost manpower and materials. Only those manufacturers who could afford to offer cutting-edge technological advances would survive.

Demand was very low but the high-end cars that the well-heeled consumer acquired bordered on being artwork.

“My Packard is one from the final year for the pure roadster, a two-passenger cabin plus a rumble seat. There are no roll-up windows, and the windshield can be folded flat on the hood for true open-air motoring. While 154 were built, there are approximately only a dozen that remain today.

“It is powered by a huge, 385-cubic-inch, 120 H.P., straight eight engine coupled to a 4-speed manual transmission with a floor mounted shifter. The wheelbase is 140.5 inches, and it weighs 4400

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

pounds. The 19-inch wire wheels were a $60 option, as was the special grill and double tail lights that became standard in 1932.

“Other options included the side-mounted spares, luggage rack, radiator stone guard and the radiator cap sculpture. The total price in 1931 was $3,700 or about $63,000 today. That is for a car that does not have anything we consider basic today ... windows, heater (much less air conditioning), radio, no power options, no cruise control, no navigation, no back up camera, none of that.

“The ownership of this car dates to factory delivery, along with a matching Coupe, reportedly to the Mellon family of Mellon Bank, Gulf Oil, Alcoa Aluminum and Westinghouse fame. It has received excellent care since new and benefited from a complete restoration in 1979.

“The history includes extensive touring throughout France, Germany and Switzerland, and extended exhibition at the Imperial Palace Auto Museum in Las Vegas. It has full Swiss registration as a Veteran Car and was awarded a First-Place Trophy at the Raid Basel-Paris Concours d’Elegance in 2003.

“It earned 98 on the 100-point Classic Car Club of America judging scale in October of 2017. The odometer, believed to be

Proceeds from the Concours d’Elegance of Texas will be distributed to three non-profit organizations, including Arlington’s River Legacy Foundation, the Next Gen Education Program, and the Edward Pierce Center for Autism.

Mike Ames says this beautiful classic has fewer than 20,000 original miles on it. He drives it occasionally, but it is most at home at auto shows.

accurate, shows less than 20,000 original miles. This car is a rare combination of exceptional build quality, beauty and usability. It is great to see classic cars that are absolute, surgical perfection and jewel-like. This car is not so perfect that you are afraid to drive it. I use it just enough to allow it to be enjoyed, and that makes it perfect in my book.”

Cars like Mike’s and their histories are all part of the experience on display among the Caleum Moor Sculptures in the Richard Greene Linear Park on the concluding day three of the big weekend.

It all begins with Tour and Track Day on Friday, April 20, when participants will have breakfast with Bugs Bunny and his Looney Tune buddies at Six Flags Over Texas.

Then a police-escorted, 41-mile trip to Cresson, Texas, and the Motorsport Ranch for owners to drive their cars on the professional race tracks there. There’s also the option to drive the exotic cars provided by the Ranch.

Saturday is the day of the 17th Annual Texas Classic Auction presented by Worldwide Auctioneers at the Arlington Convention Center. Doors open at 9a.m., with the auction beginning at 11 a.m.,

when vehicles ranging from five to seven figures in value will be sold to the highest bidders.

That evening there are two options to enjoy a Rangers game inside Globe Life Park. First is a VIP Charity Auction and Dinner at the Hyundai Club, including an exceptional meal, unlimited beer and wine, and the opportunity to bid on silent and live auction items.

A limited number of tickets are available for this event, or you may opt for the Family Fun Night in Home-Run porch that includes an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Then comes the Concours event itself in the linear park between Globe Life Park and AT&T Stadium that opens at 9 a.m. and concludes with the awards ceremonies at about 4:30 p.m.

Proceeds from the weekend of activities will be distributed to three non-profit organizations, including Arlington’s River Legacy Foundation, the Next Gen Education Program, and the Edward Pierce Center for Autism.

All the exciting details, times for each day’s events, and ticket availability can be found on the organization’s extensive website: concoursoftexas.org.

arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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33

Worthy Causes

The (PIN)wheels of progress

The Junior League of Arlington is raising awareness of child abuse in Tarrant County • By Toni Randle Cook

Y

Members of the Junior League of Arlington are active in their support of worthy causes. Above left, the pinwheels represent each case of child abuse in Tarrant County. Above, the women were part of the Little Black Dress Initiative, which raised awareness of domestic abuse.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

ou will soon see hundreds of blue pinwheels, spinning in the springtime wind on the lawn of the Junior League of Arlington Center for Community Service (4002 W. Pioneer Pkwy.).

Though the small toys are usually associated with fun, these pinwheels will be set out to symbolize something quite the opposite: child abuse.

The display is part of the Junior League of Arlington’s “Pinwheels for a Purpose,” which aims to raise awareness about the number of child abuse cases in Tarrant County, more specifically in Arlington. Each pinwheel represents one reported case within the city.

Abuse prevention is the current focus area for the Junior League of Arlington.

According to its website, the JLA “is a nonprofit, educational, and charitable organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.”

Tarrant County and Harris County take turns in ranking number one for the most reported cases of abuse. The JLA believes abuse of any kind should never occur. “We raise awareness about this issue in Tarrant County and also fundraise in order to give back to other

Through initiatives such as the Pinwheels for a Purpose project, the Junior League of Arlington has raised more than four million dollars for organizations that serve Tarrant County and another three million dollars for area grants, scholarships and project funding.

Photos: Junior League of Arlington

organizations supporting this effort and mission,” says President April Pettitt.

Since its inception in 1975, the JLA has raised more than four million dollars for organizations that serve Tarrant County and another three million dollars for area grants, scholarships and project funding.

The group will try to raise additional funds at its 16th annual “Tee It Up for Charity” golf tournament, which also takes place this month. The popular event, one of the JLA’s biggest fundraisers, will be held on Monday, April 23, at Shady Valley Country Club.

In their work, Junior League of Arlington members cultivate trained volunteers. “Training is built in to our retreats, our general meetings, and one-off opportunities we provide, such as our Elevated Leadership Institute,” says Pettitt. “Among the many skills we teach, we want our members to be able to go to other organizations in the community and feel confident running a committee or coordinating volunteers if needed.”

The women are doing just that. The JLA has placed members in more than 2,500 community nonprofit positions alone, totaling more than 750,000 volunteer hours.

The JLA welcomes all women who demonstrate an interest in and commitment to volunteerism. To become a member: you must be at least 21 years old, fill out an application, have a proposing sponsor or two letters of recommendation, go through an interview and complete the new member course.

Becky Davis is an Occupational Therapist who specializes in acute care in the neonatal intensive care units. “Giving of my time and being able to serve as a League member, gives me a different type of joy and personal satisfaction,” says Davis. “The dynamic women I have met have been inspiring.”

There are more than 400 active and sustaining members in the Junior League of Arlington. That number doesn’t include the women currently in the new-member course.

All of the members will help with the Pinwheels for a Purpose community event being held on April 21. You can sponsor a child by purchasing one of the pinwheels online or on site at the Center for Community Service. Pettitt plans to camp out there – day and night -- until all of them are claimed.

For more on the golf tournament, visit jlarlington.org.

(Arlington Today magazine is a proud sponsor of the Junior League of Arlington) arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

35

Springtime is wedding time!

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Venue with a view

Bridal

All about WEDDINGS Here are 9 things to think about – and one fun recollection – as you plan for your special day

Mercury Chophouse offers a fine dining experience and is the first prime steakhouse in Arlington, making it an ideal site for the rehearsal dinner and other wedding-related functions.

The restaurant’s exclusive interior houses some of the finest cuisine DFW has to offer, as well as options for live music, and the impeccable service is blended with a breathtaking, panoramic view of Arlington’s Entertainment District. For more: mercurychophouse.com.

With this ring ...

A day (or evening) at the park The website wedding.com says this about River Legacy Parks and the River Legacy Living Science Center: “Every couple imagines a wedding and reception as unique and beautiful as the love they share. They want elegance and affordability. The happy couple wants the celebration to capture everyone’s imagination; after all it’s a day filled with memories to last a lifetime. River Legacy Living Science Center promises all this and more.”

For the wedding itself, there are few places in the Metroplex that offer the array of scenic spots in the park, which is an urban oasis that follows the curves of the Trinity River. As the photo above shows, the Living Science center provides an ideal backdrop for wedding photos, as well as an ideal venue for the reception. For more: riverlegacy.org.

For the reception

As a premier event venue, Sheraton Arlington Hotel is poised to take care of the bride, groom and all their wedding guests on “that special day.” The Sheraton offers a sophisticated reception hall space, discerning service and a prime location to host a memorable wedding celebration.

For more: sheratonarlingtonhotel.com.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

The staff at Troy Vinson Jewelers is passionate about its business and the products and services it provides. As a result, the company has become one of the premier sources in North Texas for engagement rings and custom jewelry items.

A family business since 1971, Troy Vinson Jewelers has served the DFW Metroplex by adhering to a high code of ethics to earn the trust and loyalty of each customer. The company offers a wide range of unique engagment rings and wedding bands. For more: troyvinsonjewelers.com

Or with these ...

Baseball Diamonds, which was founded in 1994 at The Ballpark in Arlington, has moved to a new location: 430 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 110. Though the locale is different, the quality and selection of engagement and wedding rings remains among the best in Texas. Owner David D’Aquin encourages every husband-to-be to pay a visit to find the ideal ring for his bride-to-be.

For more: baseballdiamonds.com.

About that new home of yours ...

Fine dining for before and after the ceremony The Sanford House has long been known as one of Arlington’s premier venues for weddings and associated events (see our bride’s story that begins on the following page). One of the reasons that couples continue to choose to begin a life together there is the fine food and special service provided by restaurant506.

The restaurant features “Inspired American” cuisine. The culinary team creates delicious seasonal menus that are handmade with the freshest ingredients. restaurant506 is open for lunch Wednesday through Saturday, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., for dinner Wednesday through Saturday from 5:30 - 9 p.m., and for brunch Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

But those are just the “regular” hours. restaurant506 also offers a variety of large-group packages tailored for wedding parties, including rehearsal dinners, bridal party lunches in conjunction with pre-ceremony spa and salon treatments and, of course, receptions that can follow weddings at The Sanford House or weddings that take place elsewhere.

For more: thesanfordhouse.com

You’ve walked the aisle, exchanged the vows, danced until your feet hurt and then scurried to the car in hopes that your best “friends” were wise enough to use washable paint to decorate it.

Eventually, when you get back from the honeymoon to end all honeymoons, you come home.

And you want it to be just as perfect as the Big Day that preceded it was.

The staff at Brumbaugh’s Fine Home Furnishings appreciates that yearning and is dedicated to providing elegant ranch-style furniture and other home accent pieces that not only make the transition from newlyweds to married couple pleasant, but personal, as well.

Brumbaugh’s provides the look and feel of the Old West to astute homeowners throughout the world. From Vintage Western to Tuscan Chic, Brumbaugh’s offers more than 50,000 square feet of home furnishings that aren’t found anywhere else. The store offers a wide range of living, dining and bedroom options, as well as accessories to match the home and its dwellers.

For more: brumbaughs.com

She said, “Yes!”

University of Texas at Arlington basketball player Johnny Hamilton recently had a special Senior Night in his final home game with the Mavericks – and not just because he scored 14 points and grabbed six rebounds to help UTA defeat Georgia State 89-81.

Before the game, “Johnny Tall” proposed to his girlfriend, Rachael Ross, as part of the Senior Night introduction ceremonies. The headline above reveals her answer.

Snap chat Dwayne Lee, owner of Southern Flair Photography, offers this notion for couples to ponder while planning a wedding: Uncle Fred might be a nice guy and an inexpensive alternative when it comes to wedding photography, but, at the end of the day, he’s still just Uncle Fred.

“The biggest mistake I see couples make is going to non-professionals for their wedding pictures,” Lee says.

“In the end, you usually get what you pay for, and that’s a shame, because the pictures that capture these special memories – and that special day – need to be special, as well. That’s what professional photographers give you: special pictures.” For more: sflairphotography.com.

At the fore!-front

Texas Star Golf Course offers banquet rooms that are the perfect backdrop for wedding receptions. Each one has an inviting atmosphere and a beautiful view of the course’s 18th hole. The divisible space can accommodate as many as 300 for a reception – or you can use Raven’s Grill for smaller wedding gatherings.

For more: texasstargolf.com. arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

39

Here Comes the Bride

My wedding,

MY STORY

Annie Franchek shares memories of her recent marriage to Matthew Cox – at The Sanford House

A

nnie Franchek married Matthew Cox on Feb. 24 at The Sanford House. This month, she shares some of her favorite memories prior to, during and after the wedding ceremony.

How did you and Matthew meet, and how did the relationship evolve from that point?

We are both Mechanical Engineering graduates from the University of Texas at Arlington, and we met while taking Calculus II there.

Matthew is the kindest person I know, and I fell for him almost immediately. It only took me a couple of weeks of knowing him to realize he was the one for me. It took him about six months of my constant pursuit of him to reach the same conclusion, but he got there in the end.

Why did you choose The Sanford House for the event?

We used to drive by The Sanford House all of the time when we were in school, since it is so close, and every time I would mention to Matthew how beautiful the place looked. We really wanted to get married in Arlington because that was where we met, had our first

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Annie Franchek married Matthew Cox before 85 family members and friends at The Sanford House. Here are some photographic highlights of the event.

date, shared our first kiss, and where our whole relationship really evolved, so after having a chance to see just how beautiful The Sanford House was and having the amazing food from restaurant 506 we just knew this was the place.

Was there a theme to your wedding? If so, please tell us how you decided to go that route.

We didn’t really have much of a theme other than “romantic.” We thought that theme fit into the venue very easily. Although – we did have a couple of nerdy Easter eggs that we knew some of our friends would appreciate. For example, we had a sign that read “A bride is never late, nor is she early. She arrives precisely when she means to,” which is a paraphrased quote from “The Lord of the Rings.”

How big was the wedding (wedding party and attendees)?

Eighty five people attended. I had two bridesmaids, Monica Chakraborty (my best friend since high school) and Becka Chandler (my sister in-law). Matthew had two groomsmen, Amos Cox (his brother) and Alex Hunter (his best friend from college).

Tell us about the planning that went into the wedding proper. Did you have help? If so, please share who did what.

Probably because we are engineers, we love to learn how to do different things, so we DIY’d everything we possibly could – from invitations, to decorations, to even the cake! To top it all off, we moved to Ohio after college because I accepted a job with Honda there, so we had to do everything long distance.

Luckily, we had a lot of help from our friends and family to pull everything off. My bridesmaids even stayed up all night the night before to help me finish everything in time so Matthew and I could have the perfect day.

Of course, our officiant, Rev. Randy Dicken from LoveNotes Weddings, and everyone at the Sanford House did an amazing job putting everything together behind the scenes, so I didn’t have to worry. I was amazed at how well they were able to dry and clean the area after the torrential downpour from that morning. And all of those little details that I missed, they managed to swoop in and solve the moment they came up.

What was going through your mind as the wedding proper unfolded?

This was such a long time coming that it didn’t feel real at first. At the beginning of the ceremony it felt more like a dress rehearsal, but by the time we were saying our vows I was tearing up and was very absorbed in what was happening. I didn’t even realize how tired I was of standing in heels until it was time for us to walk down the aisle together at the end of the ceremony.

Wedding photos courtesy of Annie Franchek

Tell us about the reception. Where was it, and how did it evolve from the planning stages to the event itself?

We had the reception at The Sanford House, as well. While there were a couple of minor things that I meant to go slightly differently, the evening still went amazingly thanks to all of the great help we got.

Please tell us about your honeymoon.

We went on a Caribbean cruise through Carnival Cruise Lines and had a fantastic time getting to visit Cozumel and the Yucatan.

What are your favorite memories from your special day?

I loved when we gave our vows. Even though neither of us had heard the other’s beforehand, they fit together really well. In fact,

arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

41

Matthew had a line in his vows about promising to bring me my coffee every morning, and I had a line about loving him whether he was being his normal sweet self and bringing me coffee, or making so many mistakes it feels like he is doing it just to irritate me.

We also really loved the dance lessons that Robert Hernandez from Dynamic Dance DFW gave. We both hate that awkward moment (or, at least, awkward for us nerdy engineers) at the end of weddings when everyone is supposed to just go onto the dance floor and dance, so I wanted to do something different. Instead of having a DJ we hired Robert to come out and teach everyone some basic dance moves. Everyone had a blast! Everywhere I looked I saw people laughing and smiling, and I have never seen so many people out on a dance floor at a wedding.

Were there any funny or poignant memories, in addition to the favorites?

Unfortunately for poor Matthew, after our kiss he had deep red lipstick all over his mouth and looked ridiculous, so, naturally – and I’m sure much to his chagrin – I started wiping his face off in front of basically everyone we know.

Another poignant memory we will forever remember is that when we left my parents’ house around 2 in the morning with my wedding party to start moving things over to the venue, one of us (and we still aren’t sure who) left my parents’ front door wide open all night. Naturally, that was the night that it rained buckets, so my Dad was super pleased to wake up to that the next morning. Luckily for me, if there was ever a day that my parents felt obligated to be nice to me, my wedding day was it.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

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Local Homes

HOME SWEET! HOME

On this page and the ensuing pages, you’ll see a variety of scenes and vantages points that depict the recent renovations at the home of Jeff and Karen Williams. The work was done by RJ Construction.

Photos courtesy of RJ Construction

Mayor Jeff Williams and his wife Karen recently undertook a renovation project. Here are the stunning results ...

O

ften, this section of the magazine is devoted to people who live like kings and queens – figuratively, anyway. This month, we’re focusing on people who live like mayors and first ladies – literally. The photos accompanying this story depict a recent renovation that took place at the home of Jeff and Karen Williams, who for the past three-plus years have served as Arlington’s “first couple,” following Jeff’s election to Mayor in 2015.

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The couple has lived in their Southwest Arlington dwelling near Lake Arlington for the past two decades after falling in love with Arlington in general and that part of town in particular. “But,” says Jeff, “we love to entertain, and we wanted a larger living area. We also wanted to improve the backyard for our kids and grandkids with a covered outdoor kitchen. And we really just did not have time to move right now.” >>>

arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

47

Instead, they made contact with Robert Jordan of RJ Construction and told him that they wanted to enlarge the family room and add an outdoor kitchen.

As you can see, Jordan and his team did a masterful job of taking the Williams’ vision and converting it into their “dream renovation.”

Karen says she and Jeff had several specific goals at the project’s outset. “We wanted to create a warm, inviting family room with an outdoor kitchen of cedar, stone and granite that reminded us of the places we have stayed at in Colorado,” she says. “Practically, we wanted to also be able to better serve and entertain family and friends. We added a built-in serving granite bar and hutch in the family room that we have used as a buffet serving line for meals or for coffee and dessert. It also has a double cabinet for two large trash bins.”

RJ Construction also added LED lighting with dimmers throughout to make the area more inviting and to allow Karen and Jeff to adjust the brightness to set the right mood.

Jeff, whose “other job” is as an engineer, says the project also updated a brick fireplace that was converted to white limestone with a custom fireplace screen. “Over the fireplace, we had a new family portrait done at River Legacy Park by Southern Flair,” he says. “It was taken on a bridge that I designed in 1995.”

New cabinets and shelves were also designed and created to display photos and keepsakes of the family, and windows were installed across the back wall to bring more light into the home and to provide great views of the backyard. The wall of windows became sliding mahogany and glass doors that span 20 feet.

“Robert is very knowledgeable and creative,” Jeff says. “I had drawn up the design, and he had great ideas, including a loadbearing beam to be installed in the new ceiling to leave no signs of the outside wall that was to be removed.”

Jeff and Karen spent two weeks making color and material selections and looking at another house remodel Jordan had done. They began the construction in the middle of September and completed the project at the beginning of November.

A portion of that time was spent in selecting the granite for the indoor and outdoor granite tops. “We considered this an opportunity to introduce a work of art to the project,” Karen says. “We are very excited about the countertops.”

Jeff knows from experience that most construction projects have challenges. One of theirs was creating a barrier at the end of the outdoor kitchen, which is three feet above the pool deck, to prevent stepping off or falling. “I originally designed a stone bench, but my daughter-in-law and son suggested putting in a linear fire pit,” he says. “We loved the idea, and Robert built it. It turned out to be one of the best features of the remodel. The fire 48

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

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“We have entertained many friends and family, and we are able to accommodate more people at one time.

We leave the sliding glass doors open, so guests can move from the inside to outside. They love to sit outside watching the fire pit and listening to the waterfall on our koi pond.” line also generates enough heat to allow us to use the outdoor kitchen in very cold weather. We also roast s’mores over the fire pit.”

As the project evolved, Jeff and Karen knew that their initial goals weren’t just being met, but surpassed. Still, Karen says, the couple was a bit overwhelmed when they saw the finished product. “The remodel was transformational and beautiful,” she says. “I was also pleasantly surprised about how much space was added with the remodel.”

Jeff, likewise, felt a sense of joy over what the “after” in their epic “before/after” project looked like. “I was excited that we had succeeded in creating a special place that people would want to be in,” he says.

As is the case with homes in general, both the Mayor and his wife have favorite parts of the newest addition to their dwelling.

For Karen, the built-in hutch and serving bar that were an extension of her kitchen earn kudos. “That has greatly enhanced our ability to entertain,” she says. “But the hutch is tied with the custom glass and mahogany sliding doors as my favorite.”

Jeff is particularly fond of the linear fire pit that is a both unique design feature and a practical provider of heat and ambience.

Though the remodeling project is still new, the couple has already made the most of it. “We have entertained many friends and family, and we are able to accommodate more people at one time,” Karen says. “We leave the sliding glass doors open, so guests can move from the inside to outside. They love to sit outside watching the fire pit and listening to the waterfall on our koi pond. We [recently] hosted a church youth group working at Mission Arlington, and they enjoyed the space, and we easily accommodated them.”

Now that the renovation is complete, Jeff and Karen consider themselves better prepared for any future projects. And Jeff offers this advice to anyone who might be considering a similar remodeling endeavor: “Plan carefully before you begin construction to avoid costly change orders. Consult your contractors on ideas to save money. Consult an experienced realtor to determine what home improvements are a good investment. Find a good contractor like Robert Jordan. As Mayor, I also was proud to make an investment in my home to show the confidence I have in the future of Arlington!”

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

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51

For the Children

Child Care Associates celebrates 50TH birthday

Local nonprofit has served more than half a million children • By Karen Gavis

DURING THE PAST 50 YEARS, CHILD CARE ASSOCIATES has served more than half a million children, and Child Care Associates that’s something to President Kara Waddell celebrate. The largest Photo: Karen Gavis child development nonprofit in North Texas, CCA has 23 campuses and 74 partnership classrooms throughout Tarrant County including three in Arlington and one in Mansfield. Overall, the nonprofit serves more than 15,000 children each year.

“A commitment to early childhood development is crucial to a strong community and its future,” says CCA president and CEO Kara Waddell. “CCA works to support the whole child – intellectually, emotionally, and physically – as well as supporting the whole family.”

Primarily, the nonprofit serves low-income children up to five years of age, giving priority access to children who may be experiencing homelessness, have been in foster care or are in a refugee situation, Waddell says, adding that the whole-family approach includes things like making sure children have a doctor, dentist visits and shots, as well as addressing housing needs and food insecurities.

Applications for fall enrollment are currently being accepted, Waddell says. There is no cost to parents in the Head Start, Early Head Start and childcare programs.

Waddell shows a book put together by Tarrant County leaders in 1967 that acknowledged a growing number of single parents and working mothers.

“Fifty years ago, we thought ‘we need someone to take care of these kids so we can work,’ she says. “But now, we know more about children. Our classrooms are really set up as early intervention.”

During its 50th birthday celebration in February, CCA’s “North Star” plan, which specifies five goals to be achieved over the next decade, was revealed. Key components of the family52

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

centered design include research, resiliency, diverse educators and building a financially strong nonprofit.

“The community acknowledges the importance of children in poverty being on grade-level in mathematics, reading, and social-emotional learning outcomes by the end of third grade,” according to CCA, which plans to focus on two metrics – the progress children are making in literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional learning by age three and kindergarten readiness.

CCA would like to serve more younger children, Waddell says, describing one partnership with Arlington ISD, where about half of the positions are held for students finishing high school and buses are equipped with infant and toddler seats.

“We want to make sure that teen mom can finish school successfully and make sure that young child is getting the education that he or she needs,” she says.

CCA has long-term resources available for more infant/ toddler services in Arlington but lacks a building, Waddell says.

In the past, Arlington has partnered with the nonprofit, which does not get federal funds for buildings, to help build through a community development block grant.

“We are hopeful we can build up infrastructure in Arlington,” she says. “Just like we build downtown and athletics, we could build up providing to needier families. When another city does that, the funds sort of follow that infrastructure.”

Waddell notes that 80 percent of Head Start & Early Head Start programs are funded through federal dollars, and CCA works with local leaders to meet the remaining 20 percent mainly through donated resources and volunteer hours.

Child Care Associates is looking for businesses and organizations to partner with directly, says Corinne Fiagome, CCA’s director of advancement. An event about the impact of early childhood education and the value of investing in children will be held in October.

“It’s really key leaders in the community that make [the program] successful long term,” Waddell says. “The only reason we should exist moving forward is that we architect solutions for children.”

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Education

Following graduation ceremonies this spring, students at Arlington Collegiate High School will have both their high school diplomas and associate degrees from Tarrant County College.

Thus it is that Lugo and Urbina will have two graduation ceremonies in May. The one from ACHS is the first in the school’s history, and that makes the principal, Dr. Ben Bholan, both sad and proud. “As our first students, they had it the toughest,” says Bholan.

“They didn’t know what was going to happen, and we, as adults, were trying to figure out things as we went along. But they overachieved our expectations.”

The grads-to-be were both sold on the idea in eighth grade by teachers at their respective junior highs – Lugo by Karen Attaway at Workman, Urbina by Photos: Southern Flair Photography Nancy Rushing at Ferguson. “Ms. Rushing kept telling me about this new school,” Urbina says, “how it wasn’t even built yet but would be such a good opportunity for me and that I’d be Innovative Arlington perfect for it.”

Collegiate High School A good opportunity, indeed – top-flight high school education, is helping local first two years of college at the same time and all at no cost. The students earn a school district and TCC combine to foot the bill. diploma and a degree So what’s not to like? For one thing, students come to ACHS from at the same time throughout AISD and consequently leave behind many or all of their friends who go on to traditional high schools. They also miss out on • By Bill Lace the usual high school experience – football, pep rallies, choir, band.

Lugo wasn’t much into those things, but she would miss the daily n May 12, Karla Lugo and Grace Urbina will graduate contact with friends. “But my mom told me, ‘Hey, friends come and from college. Twelve days later, they will graduate from go. The ones who are meant to be in your life will stay.’” high school.

For Brinley Dorsey, currently a freshman, ACHS was much more a Say, what? known quantity. His sister, Arianna, had enrolled there the previous This cart-before-horse scenario is because they are seniors at year, and he needed no coaxing. He was leaving some friends, sure, Arlington Collegiate High School, an educational innovation where but he says, “I was thinking more of my future, and this was the best students enter as ninth-graders and, four years later, emerge with thing for me.” both their high school diplomas and college associate degrees.

The toughest part was completing the application form. “I filled it The early college high school concept was pioneered by the out many, many, many times because I wanted to make sure it was Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in 2002, adopted by the Texas perfect.”

Education Agency in 2003 and now boasts 198 campuses in Texas, Dorsey’s quest for perfection is typical of ACHS students, who eight of them in Tarrant County under agreements with Tarrant teachers say are, as a group, highly motivated. Lugo, for instance, County College. ACHS is housed at TCC’s Southeast Campus.

Giving it the NEW college try

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

especially on Bholan. She tells of one student who received a traffic wasn’t satisfied with a high C in psychology because “it didn’t look ticket. “Her biggest fear was not telling her parents,” she says. “It good,” and is retaking it. was that Dr. Bholan would find out and be disappointed in her. He A summer bridge program prior to the freshmen year provides gets involved, and they absolutely adore him.” information on what to expect and a chance to make new friends.

The motivation, preparedness and hard work are reflected Still, says English teacher Jennifer Fuller, “They come in scared to in excellent grades and in standardized test scores appreciably death. Not only are they leaving their comfort zone, but they’re also higher than the district average. Bholan is aware that some people afraid they may disappoint people.” think such achievement is natural because his school has all the Students are told right off that the easy road they may have had in smart, advanced placement junior high has taken a sharp students. Actually, that’s far turn. “The first day of class, from true. In fact, the state every teacher told us the same mandates that preference be thing,” Lugo recalls. “It got given to students who are the into my head – this is hard, first in their families to attend this is hard, I need to get my college and who, due to finances stuff together.” and other factors, are considered Faculty and staff are unlikely to attend college. careful, however, not to “These are average kids, but simply throw the students they have the will, the heart and into the deep end. They start the belief in themselves to achieve off with mostly high school these things,” Bholan says. classes and are eased into the “Many of them, if they weren’t college curriculum. By the here, they would probably have junior year, they’re taking dropped out.” classes alongside regular Prom and graduation may TCC students. “Like from the be just around the corner, but kids’ table to the adult table,” Lugo and Urbina are looking Lugo says. much farther ahead. Urbina will “That first semester is attend UTA as a junior with an tough,” Bholan says. “They eye toward dental school. Lugo were in a tight schedule. Now, also wants a dental career and they may have a gap between already has a leg up, having classes and need to make the been accepted by the highly most of that time. Also, the competitive undergraduate/ TCC professors aren’t on them dental school program offered by all the time saying things like, Texas A&M and Baylor School of ‘You’ve got to turn this in.’ It’s Dentistry in Dallas. a quick maturing curve they Dorsey’s plans aren’t have to go through.” that definite, but he wants Most juniors take that a career involving scientific curve smoothly, having been or technological research. “I prepped by the high school want to be the person who, for staff on what’s expected of Top photo: Senior Grace Urbina, senior Karla Lugo and freshman Brinley Dorsey pose with Principal Dr. Ben Bholan on the campus of Arlington Collegiate High School. Bottom photo: Jennifer Fuller, an instance, discovers a cure for them. TCC English instructor AISD English teacher who also teaches the college-level courses, stands before her ACHS class. cancer,” he says. Don’t bet against Melody Fowler had not been it. He recently ranked in the top five of about 100 students in a told who in her classes were ACHS students, but it soon became math/science competition sponsored by the Texas Association of apparent. “They stood out because they’re so prepared,” she says.

Minorities in Engineering.

“They were always there, sitting at the front, always the first go get Graduation will be bittersweet for Bholan and Fuller as they out their homework and the first to raise their hands. They go above watch their fledglings leave the nest, and their students also find and beyond anything that is asked of them.” themselves wistful. “We’ve been so close and been through so much The ACHS students’ behavior in class is largely impeccable. They together for four years,” Urbina says. “Now, everyone will be spread don’t want to act like children in front of their adult classmates. across the state and even across the nation.”

“That’s a big ‘NO,’” Urbina says. “We’re focused on our future and But it’s time to move on, well prepared, to what lies ahead. “This are here to learn.” school has changed me. It’s changed who I am, how I think,” Lugo Fowler’s students try to avoid anything – bad behavior, low says. “This was the best decision I ever made.” grades – that will reflect poorly on each other and on ACHS – arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Scene Snapshots from the US Pan Asian American Chamber Lunar New Year Celebration/Award Gala, from the Salvation Army Appreciation Banquet honoring Jerry McCullough as Volunteer of the Year and from MPAC Arlington Inc.’s candidates breakfast

US Pan Asian American Chamber - Southwest President Grace McDermott

Ching Fen Lin sings the Star Spangled Banner.

Photos courtesy of Grace McDermott

UTA President Dr. Vistasp M. Karbhari

Mayor Jeff Williams and Karen Williams

The Lion Dancers entertained the crowd.

Photos courtesy of Jerry McCullough

Jerry McCullough, Becky McCullough, Mark Caffey and Michael Cunningham

Mansfield Mayor David L. Cook, Salvation Army Lt. Timothy Isreal and Jerry McCullough

Photos: Donna Darovich

Carole Lemonds and Jeannie Deakyne

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

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57

Leisure

The Great Outdoors Five things you should do this spring to ensure that your life will be better

The thrill of the grill T

he recipe for a perfect spring evening starts with ... well ... a perfect spring evening. Then add a few (or many) friends and enough grillable goodies to satisfy the lot of you. Then go outside to the backyard and fire up the grill. If you don’t have a grill, go to Texas Appliance and pick one up. The “everything appliance” store has more than 200 models, including the popular Big Green Egg (pictured).

Then enjoy.

With roots back to the 1950s, Texas Appliance is an established, locally owned and operated residential major appliance dealership serving both retail and builders needs. With four locations in the Metroplex, including two in Arlington, Texas Appliance offers a full spectrum of appliances from more than 40 major brands to meet your every need. Not only that – Texas Appliance also has one of the largest displays of built-in and free standing appliances in Texas.

The experienced and knowledgeable sales staff is available to answer your questions and assist you in your selection process. And the store offers delivery.

For more: txappliance.com 58

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Catch the big one I

f you’re an angler, this is perhaps the best month to angle, given that The City of Arlington Parks and Recreation Department will host the Sixth Annual Bass Tournament at Lake Arlington on April 7.

There will be $25,000 in prize money for the fishermen and fisherwomen who reel in the bigger fish over an eight-hour period.

The tournament start time is 7 a.m., with angler check-in beginning at 5:30 a.m. at the Lake Office in Richard Simpson Park. The Bass Classic will end at 3 p.m.

Registration is $100 per team (one or two people). There’s a limit of one boat per team. But there’s no limit on the amount of bass you can catch. In fact, the top eight places will be paid, based on the biggest stringers. The entry fee includes a Big Bass side pot. To enter, visit alturl.com/hq8a3.

Even if you’re not a professional angler, Lake Arlington is a great place to frequent, either on the shores during a typically breathtaking sunset or to enjoy watercrafting. The Parks & Rec Department recently partnered with JT Jet Ski Rentals to offer rentals out of Richard Simpson Park.

For more: naturallyfun.org.

Take in a ballgame I

n a departure from the norm, Your Texas Rangers opened the 2018 Major League Baseball season last month, hosting the defending World Champion Houston Astros. All that really means is that you still have more than 75 chances to catch a game at Globe Life Park – including 12 this month.

The Rangers host the Toronto Blue Jays on April 6-8, the Los Angeles Angels on April 9-11, the Seattle Mariners on April 20-22 and the Oakland A’s on April 23-25.

Championships are rarely won in April, but the Rangers would love to get off to a fast start as they try to reclaim their position as one of the better teams in baseball after a down year in 2017. From 2010 through 2016, the club made the playoffs five times – and lost in the World Series in both 2010 and 2011.

This year’s club looks to have a solid lineup led by third baseman Adrian Beltre (pictured), and it has acquired a number of veteran starting pitchers who have enjoyed success in the past.

One great thing about The Great Game is that you don’t even have to know all the names and stats to have fun at the ballpark. Just ask your kids.

For more: texasrangers.com.

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59

LOVE YOUR PETS?

Even more of

The Great Outdoors

Let us share them with our viewers!

Submit pictures and a small bio of your pets to pets@arlingtontoday.com to be selected as one of our

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Meet a frog I

f you’ve ever been to River Legacy Park, you realize that you’re in for a satisfying experience, pretty much any way you turn.

Following the curves of the Trinity River and stretching across Arlington’s northern boundary, River Legacy Park offers the beauty of the wilderness with open spaces for your favorite pastime. From botany to bicycling or rollerblading to relaxing strolls through the woods, this 1,300acre City of Arlington public park has something for everyone. The park’s ecological diversity of bottomland forest, wetlands and prairie provides an abundant habitat for countless birds, fish, mammals and native plants.

Amenities include eight miles of paved hike and bike trails winding through thick forests and expansive greenbelts; a 10-mile mountain bike trail, built and maintained by DORBA (Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association); picnic areas; pavilions (which may be reserved by calling 817-459-5473); river overlooks; restrooms; a custom playground and playscapes; an exercise station and a canoe launch at the pedestrian bridge at Collins Street.

Oh, and frogs. There are even frogs.

For more: riverlegacy.org.

Art on the Greene C

ircle the date: The seventh annual Art on the Greene, the Arlington area’s traditional foray into items both beautiful and scrumptious, will take place May 11-13 at Richard Greene Linear Park.

The festival features works from artists from around the country, as well as food truck meal service that caters to practically every taste.

Festival hours will be: 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. on Friday, May 11; 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. on Saturday, May 12; and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 13. Admission and parking (in Lot J of Globe Life Park) is free.

In addition to the visual arts and jewelry on display throughout the grounds, Texas writers will be represented at an Authors’ Tent, where you can purchase books and meet those who created them.

This year’s Art on the Greene will feature wine tastings of products by Texas wineries, including Red 55 Winery, Silver Dollar Winery, Red Road Vineyard, Landon Winery, Texas Southwind Vineyard & Winery, and Caudalie Crest Winery.

And, per usual, local bands representing an array of genres will be part of the fare, making Art on the Greene a sensual treat for practically every kind of taste.

For more: artonthegreene.com.

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61

Development

The new George W. Hawkes Downtown Library is scheduled to officially open on June 16.

A ‘healthy’ diet of information

Earth Day celebration to be held to highlight soon-to-open library’s sustainable aspects

A

s the countdown to the day the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library officially opens to the public nears its completion, an upcoming library-related activity will further enhance the excitement over the revolutionary new addition to downtown Arlington.

First, though, that countdown: Yoko Matsumoto, Arlington’s director of libraries, says the new building will open on June 16. The new state-of-the-art “library of tomorrow” will house a collection of approximately 200,000 print and audiovisual resources and provide areas for users of all ages, including dedicated space for children, teens and adult literacy.

“That’s the thing that I’m most excited about,” Matsumoto says.

“Everybody has different tastes or a different vibe, but this library will offer specific space for all of them.”

.

GEORGE W

dREAMS DO COME TRUE

Wednesday, June 13 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Join us for a sneak peek with demonstrations by staff, heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, dessert, live music and more.

Tickets available now at arlingtonlibrary.org/dreams

Photo: City of Arlington

To get ready for the grand opening, a celebration of Earth Day will be hosted from 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. on April 16 by one of the library’s primary donors, Green Mountain Energy Sun Club. The event will take place at another new addition to the city, the recently opened City Council Chamber, specifically on the plaza (101 Abram St.), which is just a stone’s throw from the new library, located on South Center Street.

The Earth Day celebration will feature hands-on activities for children, as well as a number of features highlighting the sustainable aspects of the new library. Matsumoto says the event is free and open to the public.

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Ribbon cutting is at 10:30 a.m., followed by a day of performances, activities and more.

100 CENTER ST., ARLINGTON, TX 76010

For more information please visit ArlingtonLibrary.org or give us a call at 817-459-6900 62

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

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63

Health Care

head of the class The University of Texas at Arlington’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation is one of the five largest nursing programs in the United States.

Photo: University of Texas at Arlington

UTA’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation produces the most registered nurses in Texas • By Toni Randle Cook

D

id you know that the University of Texas at Arlington is the largest producer of registered nurses in Texas?

The College of Nursing and Health Innovation is one of the five largest nursing programs in the United States, and it continues to grow -- in enrollment, research and recognition.

In the past decade, enrollment in the College has more than doubled. During the 2016-2017 school year, there were 25,409 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students enrolled in the nursing and kinesiology programs.

“At the rate at which we are growing, there is a strong possibility that in the next decade we could make up 50 or 55 percent of the University’s enrollment,” says Anne Bavier, Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Innovation.

The schools have added new programs – a PhD in kinesiology, a bachelor’s degree in public health, a post-graduate certificate in public health, and multiple nursing specializations that can be completed online.

“This move will significantly heighten opportunities for registered nurses to enhance their careers,” says Judy LeFlore, Associate Dean

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

of graduate nursing programs, who adds that two thirds of the College’s students are online.

“The expansion of these nursing programs is a reaffirmation of our commitment to improving health and the human condition throughout the state and the entire country,” Dr. LeFlore says.

Cutting-edge research has continued in the College’s 12 laboratories on campus. They provide specialized learning environments for students and research space for faculty members, which help attract talent and funding.

Ten leading health care scholars have recently joined the College’s faculty.

“Over the last four years, UTA has received $11.5 million from the NIH, which speaks to the university’s growing reputation as a major health science research institution,” says Duane Dimos, UTA vice president for research.

The college now has nearly $8 million in active research grants, up 45 percent from the previous year. Some of those funds are being used to study the effects of zinc on cancer cells, the influence of fat storage in the heart on cardiovascular disease and developing a

There wasn’t an organization for male nurses, so he started one

Brian Chitimara

A

s a soon-to-graduate student in the University of Texas at Arlington’s College of Nursing and Health Innovations, Brian Chitimara has enjoyed the excitement of being part of one of the country’s premier nursing schools. However, as a male student in the program, he discovered early on that something was missing – a networking opportunity specifically for male nursing students.

So Chitimara did what you might expect from a former Richard Greene Scholar: He turned a challenge into an opportunity and created the UTA Male Student Nursing Association in 2016.

“We are the first-ever male nursing organization here on this campus in the history of the college of nursing,” says Chitimara, who also serves as the MSNA president. “The main purpose of this organization is to build a social bridge between students who are currently in the nursing program and those who are aspiring to be in our nursing program.”

The association has grown to more than 50 members, who meet monthly to network with and learn from their peers and from guest speakers, as well as to recruit others to the UTA program.

For more: alturl.com/katz2.

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The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education now ranks UTA as a member of the elite group of doctoral universities with “highest research activity,” a designation bestowed on top tier schools including Harvard University, Yale University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

“I am proud of the fact that our scholars produce a prodigious amount of work even though the College -- unlike most comprehensive centers of health care researchers -- is not tied to a medical school,” Bavier says.

The research will be even more enhanced when the state-ofthe-art Science & Engineering Innovation & Research, or SEIR, building opens in July.

Bavier has been the Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Innovation since 2014. She will retire at the end of this academic year (but has agreed to stay on until the university finds a replacement).

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65

Community Corner

Hurrah, indeed Helping Restore Ability literally changes lives. Here’s a moving example of how • By Donna Darovich

I

n 1996, Ashlei and Joel Marshall were told their newborn son wouldn’t make it.

Delivered prematurely with a rare stomach and urinary disorder called Prune Belly Syndrome, the tiny infant was supposed to be stillborn. Today, Tyler Marshall has survived more than 60 surgeries and five near-death incidents.

Despite these medical challenges, the talkative and curious young man thrives through a weekly bowling league, camping with his family, a passion for ‘80s music, collecting comic books and spending time with a girlfriend.

Tyler Marshall’s full life, says Ashlei, evolved thanks to the part-time attendant care provided through the Arlington-based non-profit, Helping Restore Ability (HRA).

Ashlei says she wanted Tyler to have someone who would provide not only Ashlei Marshall, Tyler Marshall companionship, but also make sure his and Brandi Simmons medical needs were met.

“It’s hard to find someone who can administer 17 different medications and perform a catheterization, while also playing video games with my son,” she says. “When you have someone in your household that is special needs, his mood dictates how the whole household runs.

It has been such a blessing to have Helping Restore Ability (HRA) work with me to find someone I’m comfortable with taking care of my adult son, while also giving me an occasional break.”

It’s happening at Viridian Viridian, the master-planned community in Arlington, has a couple of activities set for April, starting with distribution of free cupcakes and ice cream at 13 model homes from noon - 2 p.m. on April 7.

Children can burn off the sugar in the play area. The radio station JACK FM will be on hand, spinning some tunes. The event is free and open to the public.

Then, on April 28, there will be a Yappy Social from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at 1327 Viridian Park Lane, where people can rally to give a furry friend a “furever” home.

Hosted by Sybil 103.7, the event will feature a local pet adoption agency that will assist attendees in picking up a new pet. For more: viridiandfw.com.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

On May 19, Tyler will add another achievement to his scorecard. He’ll be one of 10 North Texans with Disabilities who will be models, seven of whom are HRA clients, in a fashion show that is the focal point of Helping Restore Ability’s annual fundraiser, “HuRrAh!” He’ll take the runway with his attendant, Brandi Simmons.

The event is from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. at Park Place Motorcars-Mercedes Benz, 4201 Beltway Place.

Hondo, host of “The Front Porch Show” on 99.5 The Wolf, will emcee the show. Tickets start at $100 per person and can be bought at this website: handbid.app.link/hurrah.

Sponsorship packages are also available. Call 817-635-6036 or email lpatrick@hratexas.org to purchase.

North Texas boutiques will provide fashions. Event sponsors include Baylor Orthopedic and Spine Hospital of Arlington, BNSF Railway, Fort Worth Photo: Donna Darovich Star-Telegram, Park Place Motorcars – Arlington, Blue Mesa Southwest Grill, Cigna, GM Financial, JPO Firm, FPR, PSK, USMD Health System, and Winstead Attorneys.

Funds raised at HuRrAh! will support non-reimbursable client enrollment costs, which are approximately $1,000 per individual.

Founded in Arlington in 1977, HRA is the largest non-profit in Texas providing independent living services through personal attendant care.

champions park is flourishing

P

izza, Mediterranean flavors, old-school candy, hearty salads and more are now available to residents and visitors at Greenway Investment Company’s $30 million Champions Park in North Arlington.

New dining options like Urban Bricks Pizza Co., The Halal Guys, Salata and Rocket Fizz (a vintage candy store) are now open at the 54,000-square-foot development. Orangetheory Fitness, a popular health studio/gym featuring an array of innovative workouts, has also opened its doors.

Social House Arlington, a casual sit-down American restaurant/bar offering more than 100 beers on draft, was also set to open late last month. Greenway Investment Company vice president Christy Hammons is excited about the number of customers and activity businesses are seeing each month.

“In addition to our great line up of tenants, we recently signed Zero Degrees and we’re working on three additional leases,” Hammons says. “Tenants are reporting great initial sales numbers, and all of the businesses are looking forward to increased traffic with the upcoming events at AT&T Stadium.”

Arlington charities to host fundraiser on April 26

A

rlington Charities will present the Help & Hope Celebrity Chef Showcase Featuring Chef Carol Ritchie on April 26. The event, which will be held at the Arlington Charities facility at 811 Secretary Drive, will begin with a reception at 5:30 p.m. A three-course tasting and wine pairing will take place from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Individual tickets for the fundraising event are $75.

Arlington Charities helps to stabilize families, individuals and the homeless by providing immediate, temporary assistance during their most critical time of need.

The showcase will integrate a number of local entities. Lost Oak Winery is providing the wine. Urban Alchemy Coffee and Wine Bar is the coffee sponsor.

Students involved with culinary disciplines at the Dan Dipert Career and Vocational School will do the cooking (Ritchie will teach them the skills they will need).

In addition, students at the school will do the flower arrangements, and a student in the graphic design school created the invitation. A raffle will also

★

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★

take place to help Arlington Charities’ effort to lead and engage the city of Arlington in the fight against hunger and poverty.

To that end, the event also features the following sponsorhip menu: Main Course - $2500 Donors in this category receive preferred seating for eight, a VIP reception with Chef Ritchie for eight guests, recognition on all event materials, a media ad, and mention on the Arlington Charities’ website, invitations, and event program.

Dessert Course - $1500 Donors in this category receive reserved seating for six, company recognition on all event materials, media ads, and mention on the Arlington Charities’ website, invitations and event program Appetizer Course - $750 Donors in this category receive seating for four, as well as recognition on event invitations, the event program and the Arlington Charities’ website.

For more information, contact Penny Rowell at penny@arlingtoncharities. org or call her at 817-832-6780.

Cast your vote today!

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Vote for all your local favorites at arlingtontoday.com [Voting ends April 15, 2018.]

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arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

67

Scene Snapshots from the Open House for the new Open Arms Health Clinic facility in Southwest Arlington, from the Back the Blue Bash and from the Eat Your Art Out event benefitting the Arlington Museum of Art

Mayor Jeff Williams, Rev. Ginger Bassford and Rev. Daniel Kelley at the Open Arms ceremony

Cammye McKee, Earlyne Gee and Jerry Gee at the Open Arms Clinic grand opening

Photos: Southern Flair Photography

An array of officials take part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Open Arms event.

Amanda Lacke, Marsha Harris, Julie Castleberry and Vicki Leza

Photos: Southern Flair Photography

Police Chief Will Johnson, honoree Dick Hill and Jim Ross at Back the Blue Bash

Entertainer Aquile performed.

Some of the attendees of Back the Blue Bash

Photos: Richard Greene

Eat Your Art Out hosts Lorie and Brian White

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Elizabeth Rowe of The London Baker

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Rebecca Moody and Megan Wallstedt of Nothing Bundt Cakes

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You Don’t Have to Be a Golfer to Help a Kid!

Please Support Our 3rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament!

Shady Valley Country Club • Monday, May 21, 2018 Our mission is to provide a place for kids to play sports in a safe, Christian environment. Funds raised at our tournament will help maintain our sports fields, continue to build and provide play days, instruction and more for kids from our partner charities:

BECOME A SPONSOR • PROVIDE GIFTS FOR OUR SILENT AUCTION • DONATE $ Get details: go to trinitysportsfoundation.org, click the Special Events Tab arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

69

Tennis Tip

Arlington: Get in the game – volunteering

Photo: picwalls.com

Designed by Fabiola R.

T

he United States Tennis Association (USTA) was founded in 1881 by volunteers, and for the organization’s entire history, volunteers have been at the very heart of every aspect, working at every level.

At the local level, potential volunteers can contact their local Community Tennis Association (CTA) or the National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) Network. CTAs are not-for-profit, volunteerbased organizations that work with various venues to grow tennis in their communities. The NJTL Network works with volunteers to provide free or low-cost tennis programs to under-resourced youth.

Volunteers can also assist with Junior Team Tennis (JTT) programs at local tennis facilities.

JTT brings together boys and girls ages 6-18 to play matches against other co-ed teams. It is a competitive, level-based environment that focuses on team play and sportsmanship.

Additionally, area tennis facilities, parks and recreations departments and private clubs rely heavily on volunteers to assist with outreach and special events.

At the state or section level, volunteers can serve on a variety of committees to help grow tennis. In Texas, tennis advocates who wish to become committee volunteers are appointed by the USTA Texas President. Committees include Adaptive/Wheelchair, Advocacy, Adult participation, Budget/Finance, Coaches, Collegiate, Communications, Diversity/Inclusion, Discipline & Grievance, Junior Team Tennis, Junior Tennis Council, Leadership Development, Leagues, Local Tennis Participation, Schools, Sport Science and Tournament Administration. There are a wide variety of committee opportunities for eager volunteers.

Tennis advocates can also apply to serve on national committees or to volunteer at the U.S. Open. (The U.S. Open volunteer application will become available in early June, and volunteers can list the areas and days they would like to work.)

More information on volunteering with the USTA can be found at USTA.com, along with links for individual sections. Volunteering is just one more way everyone can get in the game!

– Sharon Smith, Facility Assistant, Arlington Tennis Center

rlington rlington harities harities

cordiallycordially invites you invites you to, to,

Thursday, April 26, 2018 811 Secretary Drive, Arlington, Texas 5:30 to 6:00 p.m. - Reception 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

3-Course Tasting and Wine Pairing

Featuring Chef Carol Ritchie

Celebrity Chef Featuring Showcase

Chef Carol Ritchie Presenting

Featuring Chef Carol Ritchie

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ARLINGTON TODAY • March April 2018 2018••arlingtontoday.com arlingtontoday.com

Sponsor

Tickets $75. Seating limited to 75.

Wine provided by Lost Oak Winery.

Sponsorships are available.

For more information contact Penny Rowell at penny@arlingtoncharities.org www.arlingtoncharities.org

A Celebration of Excellence

You are invited to attend The AWARE Foundation’s Dinner

“A Celebration of Excellence” The AWARE Foundation recognizes and rewards exceptional classroom teachers in Arlington ISD for their innovation and lasting influence in the development of their students.

Tuesday, May 8, 2018 6:30 p.m. Registration • 7:00 p.m. Dinner

University of Texas at Arlington Bluebonnet Ballroom $45.00 per person www.awarefoundation.com

Dining Guide

Keen Cuisine!

Local eateries you definitely need to check out UPSCALE Chamas do Brazil chamasdobrazil2.tru-m.com 4606 S. Cooper St. • (817) 618-2986

MEXICAN/TEX-MEX Blue Mesa Grill bluemesagrill.com 550 Lincoln Square • (682) 323-3050

Fontana’s Fine Cuisine fontanasfinecuisine.com 6407 S. Cooper St., Suite 101 (682) 323-5704

El Arroyo elarroyoarlington.com 5024 S. Cooper St. • (817) 468-2557

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar kegsteakhouse.com 4001 Arlington Highlands Blvd.

(817) 465-3700 Mercury Chophouse mercurychophouse.com 2221 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 910 (817) 381-1157 Piccolo Mondo piccolomondo.com 829 Lamar Blvd. E. • (817) 265-9174 restaurant506 at The Sanford House restaurant506.com 506 N. Center St. • (817) 801-5541 AMERICAN Candlelite Inn candleliteinnarlington.com 1202 E. Division St. • (817) 275-9613 Dino’s Subs 2221 S. Collins St. • (817) 274-1140 The Grease Monkey greasemonkeyburgers.com 200 N. Mesquite St. • (817) 665-5454 J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill jgilligans.com 400 E. Abram St. • (817) 274-8561 Mac’s Bar & Grill macsteak.com 6077 West-I20 • (817) 572-0541 72

El Primo’s Mexican Grill & Cantina elprimos.net 2300 Matlock Road, #21, Mansfield (817) 225-4140 Fuzzy’s Taco Shop fuzzystacoshop.com 510 E. Abram St. (817) 265-8226 4201 W. Green Oaks Blvd.

(817) 516-8226 1601 E. Debbie Lane, Mansfield (817) 453-1682 Rio Mambo riomambo.com 2150 E. Lamar Blvd. • (817) 795-4555 6407 S. Cooper St. • (817) 465-3122 ITALIAN/PIZZA Café Sicilia cafesicilia.com 7221 Matlock Road • (817) 419-2800 Gino’s East ginoseast.com 1350 E. Copeland Road • (817) 809-7437 SEAFOOD Pantego Bay Gulf Coast Café 2233 West Park Row • (817) 303-4853 BARBECUE Bodacious Bar-B-Q bodaciousbbqarlington.com 1206 E. Division St. • (817) 860-4248

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

The enchanting Isle of Capri

T

he Isle of Capri is a limestone rock that rises up out of the spectacularly blue water. Capri is a microcosm of a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. Imagine sitting on the piazza sipping icecold Limoncello and watching the world go by. Just take a moment to contemplate the surrounding beauty. Here one can get away from the daily grind with its hectic pace and just absorb the atmosphere that the Roman architecture, the sea and the fishing boats create.

To reach the island, hop on a ferry or hydrofoil from nearby Naples or Sorrento. The Marina Grande is the landing point and is also the place from which trips to the island’s most famous attraction, the Grotto Azzurra or Blue Grotto, depart. This stunning sea cave is illuminated by sunlight passing through an underwater cave to create the beautiful blue light. If the weather conditions are favorable you can enter the cave by small rowboat. Even Mark Twain visited the Blue Grotto in 1869!

Back at the Marina Grande rent a scooter to visit the town of Capri. Fair warning: The trip up the mountain to Capri Town is a little hair raising! The road is narrow, flanked by sheer cliffs to the sea below, but you will have a great story to tell when you get back home. Capri is frequented by the rich and famous and boasts upscale hotels and designer fashion boutiques.

This enchanting “pedestrian only” town features narrow cobbled streets with charming cafes and shops. It is expensive, but enjoying a coffee or lemon granita on the piazza is a memorable experience.

For those not up to the scooter ride there are busses and taxis to Capri Town, as well as a funicular, which is also great fun.

The food of the Isle of Capri features fresh seafood, Caprese Salad and, of course, all things lemon! Ravioli Capresi is very popular. The ravioli is tossed in a fresh tomato basil sauce or a lemon cream sauce. End the meal with chilled Limoncello. Delicious!

Homemade Limoncello Liquor Ingredients: 8 - 10 large organic lemons (sfusato lemons, if you can get them) 1 750ml bottle of Vodka 3 - 4 cups of water 2 - 3 cups sugar (adjust the sweetness of the simple syrup to your own liking) Method: Use a vegetable peeler to remove the peel from the lemons in long strips. Take care to avoid the bitter white pith! Place the lemon peel in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid (a large canning jar would be perfect). Add the Vodka, close the lid and allow the mixture to steep for 5 - 6 days at room temperature. Make a simple syrup by dissolving the sugar in the water over medium heat. Allow to cool completely.

Strain the Vodka mixture to remove the peels. Pour the syrup into the alcohol and stir well. Decant into bottles and seal. Serve chilled.

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73

Health / Fitness

What’s up with your energy?

Learning how to address stress – all the kinds of stress – will make for a healthier you • By Dr. Kenyon Godwin

T

he definition of energy is the ability to do work. This is the sum of key lifestyle factors such as: sleep, diet, exercise, and stress levels. Most of us have heard the terms kinetic and potential energy. Potential energy is your capacity to do work. It is the energy that exists in the body as a result of the condition. Kinetic energy is energy in motion. I believe your capacity is determined by your health, and the difference between your potential energy level and your kinetic energy level is your frustration level!

I am going to focus on one main lifestyle factor – that is, stress. There are three types of stressors: chemical, mental and physical. Chemical stressors are the toxins, foods and drinks we consume. Nutrition –or diet – is very important, not just for its effect on how you look, but it is what fuels your body. Regeneration, recovery, and all the bodily functions require fuel to work. Your diet is not just for your palate; it is the energy source for your body. Will junk food produce the same quality of cells, tissue, and organs that quality whole foods will? Therefore, if we supply our bodies with low-quality fuel we limit our potential and kinetic energy, while simultaneously increasing our frustration.

Our food sources are more depleted, and certain nutrients still need to be supplemented. Eat to function, eat to live, eat to fulfill your potential.

Mental stressors are the concerns on our minds, such as: work, finances, family, health, etc. Conquering the mind is very difficult.

Your mind and thoughts drive your feelings, actions and ultimately your results. When overwhelmed with negativity, fear and doubt, it can be self-destructive. This changes how you see the world, how you respond and most importantly, your energy levels.

Think about your stressful days and how drained you were. It takes more energy to overcome negativity than it does to just be in your natural state and function. Just like a phone, the more apps you have open, the more it drains the device’s energy. The more apps you have open in your mind will also drain your power! Treat it like

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your phone and close some apps, log off of some things to save your battery.

Physical stressors are prolonged sitting, standing, past and present car accidents, falls, repetitive motions, injuries, and poor posture.

This is also why the trend of standing desks is so popular. Poor posture as a result of prolonged sitting, poor vision while working at a computer, slouching and compensation to tightness and pain in the body also deplete your energy. Without pain or tightness, it is easier to perform, to move and to stay focused. Have you ever tried to focus and work hard with a headache, neck or back pain? It is almost impossible, not to mention that your attitude is a little different.

Today, we see more coffee and energy drinks sold due to the lack of energy.

Our lifestyle factors have a bigger role than we realize. Consider this: Your lack of energy and an increase in frustration have an impact on your family, friends, colleagues and others who depend on your contributions. You need energy to give your best and reach your potential.

Are you willing to learn and apply some practical matters? If so, below are some tips: Energy Detractors: • Stress • Smoking • Drug use (recreation/prescription/over the counter) • Junk food • Dehydration • Inactivity • Chronic Pain Energy Boosters: Chiropractic adjustments • 6-8 hours of sleep • Essential vitamins/ minerals • Consistent exercise 3-5 times/week • Decrease stress • Decrease pain

Dr. Kenyon Godwin leads a team of professionals at Active Family Wellness Center that is dedicated to improving the health and wellness of patients from the Arlington area.

Join Us On The Field May 2nd

These Generous Sponsors Have Already Said YES! Presenting Sponsor

Bill & Marsha rickett FaMily Foundation

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GENE & JERRY JONES FAMILY ARLINGTON YOUTH FOUNDATION Luncheon Chairman MARK A. CAFFEY • CLAIRE WHEELER Luncheon Vice-Chair

TABLES & TICKETS AVAILABLE

For information contact Michael Cunningham (214) 300-8600 • mc.michaelcunningham@gmail.com, Linda Magazzine (817) 980-8733 • lindamagazzine@ebby.com or Bridget Lenhardt (817) 860-1836 • bridget.lenhardt@uss.salvationarmy.org

Tickets available at inspiringhopeluncheon.eventbrite.com

All proceeds go to support the Youth Education Town North Texas The Salvation Army Family Life Center and Youth Education Town 712 W Abram • Arlington, TX 76013 • (817) 860-1836 • www.sayet.org

Nightlife & More

The Tejas Brothers

Sights/Sounds Your resource for entertainment options in and around Arlington THEATER: Red

When: April 1-11 Where: Theatre Arlington (305 W. Main St.) Show times: 7:30 p.m. on Thursday; 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. on Sunday Notes: Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Play, Red is a raw and provocative portrait of an artist’s ambition and vulnerability that brings to light the meaning of art, integrity, commerce and audience.

For more: theatrearlington.org

MUSIC: Live Acoustic with Jesse Jennings & Friends

When: April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Where: Fat Daddy’s Sports & Spirits Cafe (781 W. Debbie Lane, Mansfield) Show time: 7 p.m.

Notes: Jesse Jennings, originally from Dublin, Texas, is a singer, songwriter and musician based in Fort Worth.

His lyrics are reflections of his personal experiences: love, loss, heartache, small town life, life on the road and more.

For more: fatdaddyslive.com

TRIVIA: Live Trivia with the Pub Guys

When: April 4, 11, 18, 25 Where: World of Beer (5005 S. Cooper St.) Show time: 7 p.m.

Notes: Bring your smart friends for the trivia and your rich friends for the tab.

For more: worldofbeer.com/locations/Arlington

MUSIC: Mt. Olive Baptist Church RUSH

When: April 6 Where: Levitt Pavilion (100 W. Abram St.) Show time: 6 p.m.

Notes: RUSH is an evening of youth and young adult Christian praise music and worship hosted by Mt. Olive Baptist Church.

For more: 817-274-3644 76

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

MUSIC: Arlington Music Hall Concerts

When: April 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 21, 26, 27, 28 Where: Arlington Music Hall (224 N. Center St.) Show times: 7:30 p.m.

Notes: This month’s featured performers/performances include Jimmy Fortune (April 6), Chronicles of Love: Chante Moore and Friends (April 7), Rhonda Vincent (April 11), Tracy Bird (April 13), KISS Alike: The Ultimate Tribute to KISS (at 8 p.m. on April 14), Bill Anderson with opening acts Burk Collins and Joyce Marek (April 21), Seven Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience (April 26), Arrival from Sweden: The Music of ABBA (April 27) and Donnie Edwards: An Authentic Heart & Soul Tribute to the King (April 28).

For more: arlingtonmusichall.net

There’s a lot to like at The LOT Downtown

T

he LOT Downtown, Mansfield’s celebrated music and entertainment venue, opens its 2018 season this month with four concerts, starting with The Tejas Brothers with Apolonio Romero Jr. performing at 7 p.m. on April 7.

On April 14, Giulia Millanta with Jackson Christenberry will be the featured acts. The Tony Rodriguez Band and Steve Douthit will play on April 21, and the April 28 show will feature Lady Diamond & The Ruff Rubies.

The LOT Downtown, located at 108 S. Main St. in Mansfield, will continue to host music and other entertainment throughout the summer. Many shows are free to the public.

For more: thelotdowntown.com.

Josh Turner will be among the musical artists at Main Street Fest.

MUSIC: Symphony Arlington’s Mahler Symphony No. 1 in D Major

When: April 19 Where: Arlington Music Hall (224 N. Center St.) Show time: 7:30 p.m.

Notes: In addition to the classical Mahler work, the symphony also will play Strauss’ Der Rosenkavalier Waltz Sequence No. 1.

For more: symphonyarlington.org

MUSIC: Timeless Concerts: Evening in Italy

When: April 21 Where: Arlington Museum of Art (201 W. Main St.) Show time: 8 p.m.

Notes: Puccini, Vivaldi and other Italian favorites – and the works of a lesser known composer, Amilcare Zanella – will be part of the fare at this concert, presented by Timeless Concerts. Performers include the ChenowethKang-Hood trio, Judith Rodriguez and Sergio Cepeda.

Following the concert there will be a post-concert party with a dessert/fruit/cheese buffet and a pianist who will take requests.

For more: timelessconcerts.com

Photo: The LOT Downtown

Photo: countryfancast.com

Music and more are on tap in Grand Prairie

T

he City of Grand Prairie Parks, Arts & Recreation Department will host the seventh Annual Main Street Fest April 20-22 on the 200 block of W. Main Street and surrounding areas. The festival, with free parking and admission, will celebrate the fun, festive, family atmosphere of Grand Prairie with live music featuring Texas country singer songwriters, hip-hop, contemporary, today’s hits and more.

The festival will also feature carnival rides, arts and crafts vendors, business expo vendors, four entertainment stages, food and beer gardens, and a KIDZONE. For more: mainstreetfest.com.

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ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

Winner of Six Tony Awards, including “Best Play”

March 30-April 15, 2018

[ No Performance on Easter Sunday, April 1 ]

[ A Play By John Logan ]

Raw and provocative portrait of master abstract expressionist, Mark Rothko’s ambition and vulnerability as he lands the biggest commission in the history of modern art. Set in the 1950s, and based on a series of real events, Red takes a compelling look at the ever-changing relationship between an artist and his creations.

Appropriate for audiences aged 16 & up. Adult Language.

OPENING NIGHT CATERER

305 W. Main Street Arlington, Tx 76010 Box Office 817.275.7661 TheatreArlington.org

Presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York

- SEASON SPONSORS -

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

77

Speaking of Sports

Pitch-perfect Doug Brocail’s job: Help the Texas Rangers’ staff find a way to win baseball games • By John Rhadigan

W

hen hurricane Harvey hit Houston, it hit very close to home, literally and figuratively. Texas Rangers pitching coach Doug Brocail’s family was at their home in Houston when the storm reached the city. Fortunately, the raging floodwaters that inflicted so much damage, the waters that caused so much devastation, never quite reached the Brocail manor.

But Doug was ready. He said, then, that if the levee that protected his home broke he was going to leave the team. He was reminded that such a departure during a busy baseball season might Doug Brocail is a big man with cost him his job. He replied with a big heart. steely-eyed sincerity, “well, it’s been a nice ride.”

That is who Doug Brocail is. A big man with a big heart. A big heart in the right place.

He did not want to lose his job that day in September, but he would have chosen protecting his family over his job. Faced with the same decision almost everyone reading this would do the same thing.

In some ways Brocail is a study in contrast. He is a larger-than-life figure when he walks to the mound. He dwarfs even the power pitchers with his physical presence. The contrast is his demeanor.

He walks to the mound like a grizzly bear looking for his next meal. If the pitcher did not know better he might expect a fight.

But these pitchers know Doug and realize that when he gets to the mound his approach will be direct, thoughtful – even gentle.

Although, there was nothing gentle about his first meeting with his boss, Rangers Manager Jeff Banister. They met during a Low-A South Atlantic League game in 1987 when both were players, Banny a minor league catcher with the Macon Pirates, and Brocail a young stud pitcher with the Charleston Rainbows.

“I didn’t know him personally, but I knew what his fists felt like,” Brocail says. “That’s how we met.”

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Indeed, Brocail and Banister met during a minor league brawl and have had a mutual respect for each other ever since. So it is no surprise that they have formed a friendship through their working relationship the past two years with the Rangers.

Brocail has a tough job this year. The pitching staff has been cobbled together. Only Cole Hamels and Martin Perez remain from last year’s staff, and Perez had an accident on his ranch in Venezuela this off-season. He broke his elbow when he fell in a bullpen. A pen full of bulls, I can’t make this stuff up. Thankfully, it was his non-throwing elbow, and his recovery is ahead of schedule.

The other pitchers on the staff include a Who’s Who of names from the early two thousand teens. Matt Moore was great against the Rangers when he pitched for Tampa Bay. Doug Fister has had a great deal of success in both leagues. Mike Minor was an up-and-coming star in the Atlanta organization. All are with the Rangers now, and it is Brocail’s job to get the most out of them.

He must also be at his “pitcher whisperer” best with the bullpen.

Not the one in Venezuela that hurt Perez, rather the Rangers bullpen that struggled a year ago. It will be better this year. Jake Diekman is healthy and Photo: espn.com here from the start. Matt Bush is back in a familiar role, and Keone Kela has taken it easy all spring in an effort to ensure health.

For most of these guys this is year three with Doug. They know him. They know what he wants them to do. They know when he comes to the mound he will have a heart-to-heart conversation with them. And they know his heart is in the right place.

Sports columnist John Rhadigan is an anchor for the Fox Sports Southwest television network.

Wednesday, April 11, 2018 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

JOIN US FOR THE

UNITED WAY-ARLINGTON ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY LUNCHEON Come hear how a collaborative spirit and problem-solving partnerships are making Arlington a community that comes together to advance the education, financial stability and health of all.

Register online today at: unitedwaytarrant.org/ARLINGTONREPORT

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Itinerary

Photo: City of Arlington

Your official Arlington-area guide to fun (and the like) Planetarium shows

When: April 3-30 (Tuesdays-Saturdays) Where: UTA Planetarium (700 Planetarium Place) Time: Check website for show times In a nutshell: UTA Planetarium is one of the three largest planetariums in the State of Texas. With its 60-foot dome projection surface, fully digital projection system and advanced software, UTA Planetarium provides its visitors views of realistic night sky, the Solar System, stars, and distant galaxies complemented with Dolby surround sound.

For more: uta.edu/planetarium

Texas Rangers baseball

When: April 6-11, 20-25 Where: Globe Life Park Time: Check website for game times In a nutshell: Your Texas Rangers will host four series this month: the Toronto Blue Jays (April 6-8), the Los Angeles Angels (April 9-11), the Seattle Mariners (April 20-22) and the Oakland A’s (April 23-25).

For more: mlb.com/rangers

Animal Exploration

When: April 7 Where: River Legacy Living Science Center (703 N.W. Green Oaks Blvd.)

Time: 2 p.m.

In a nutshell: Discover the habits and adaptations of a native animal during a live animal observation with a River Legacy Naturalist. The event is free, but space is limited.

Please RSVP to the number below. Animal Explorations are usually held the first Saturday of every month.

For more: 817-860-6752

DFW Craft Beer & Golf Fest

When: April 20-22 Where: Golf Center of Arlington (1301 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd.)

Time: 9 a.m.- midnight In a nutshell: The inaugural DFW Craft Beer and Golf Festival will bring DFW premier craft beer brands and 80

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

cider companies combined with many golf attractions and contests to entertain golfers and non golfers alike.

Grilled food and snacks will be on site, and there will be beer tasting, live music and a kids’ park.

For more: golfcenterofarlington.com

Viridian Artisan Market

When: April 21 Where: Overlook Park at Viridian (1210 Viridian Park Lane) Time: 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

In a nutshell: The Mother Earth-themed market will feature an array of artisanal products for sale, as well as a composting class, goat yoga for charity and an opportunity for kids to make their own pine cone bird feeder. In addition, there will be a cardboard regatta, face painting, a bounce house, hot dogs and sweet treats.

For more: 817-200-6543

Viridian Campout and Bio Blitz

When: April 27-28 Where: Overlook Park (1210 Viridian Park Lane) Time: 6 p.m.

In a nutshell: This event features a campout with s’mores, nature stories and more. Bio Blitz gets underway at 8 a.m. the following day. Activities include a meet and greet with interesting animals and a look at fossils discovered within the community.

For more: viridiandfw.com

Earth Day Mansfield

When: April 28 Where: 620 S. Wisteria St., Mansfield Time: 10 a.m.-4p.m.

In a nutshell: This event, which focuses on the environment, will feature a children’s area, a kids’ fishing tournament, a rain barrel auction, music, dancers, natural product vendors, tiny house and smart car displays, environmental education, food trucks, beverages and more. The event is presented by Keep Mansfield Beautiful and Mansfield Water Utilities.

For more: 817-975-3197

NFL Draft is coming to town this month

I

f you thought the National Football League was just an autumn pastime, think again.

This month – specifically from April 26-28 – the NFL’s second-biggest event, the player draft, will be held at AT&T Stadium before what will likely be the largest crowd ever to witness the league’s selection process.

How big will this year’s draft be? In late February, more than 100,000 fans had signed up for a chance to view the event.

That’s the highest number of registrations over a three-day period in draft history.

Fans who registered at NFL.com/ FanMobilePass were entered into a free lottery to win seated tickets inside the NFL Draft Theater at the Stadium.

Those lucky enough to get seats will be party to a three-day process that can help teams’ prospects for improvement over the coming season and years. One example of the kind of boon a smart selection can represent is Philadelphia Eagle quarterback Carson Wentz, taken with the first selection in the 2016 draft. Last year, he helped put the Eagles into a contending position before being injured late in the season, and then watched as his team claimed the championship a few weeks later.

The Dallas Cowboys are the first NFL team to host a draft from a stadium.

Arlington is making the event a “team sport,” as residents, police, utilities and the fire department have been planning for more than a year to make the draft a seamless success. Off-duty Arlington police officers will work the event. The department will work with city and Arlington Police engineers to come up with traffic plans to handle the demand on infrastructure, as well as use social media and other communication methods with the road navigation application Waze and event coordinators to communicate to attendees where to go.

Arlington Urban Ministries Presents

Boots, Chaps & Cowboy Hats Details Join us as we celebrate our 5th anniversary wearing your denim, diamonds & boots. Enjoy live music by Uptown Drifters, silent & live auctions, raffle, a wine pull, cash bar and the Doing Good in the Neighborhood Awards ceremony. Emceed by retired news anchor, Jim Douglas. Plated dinner by Magdalena’s.

River Ranch 500 NE 23rd Street Fort Worth, TX 76164

$75 Tickets Purchase before April 2 Make your reservation at ArlingtonUrbanMinistries.org

Sunday, April 15, 2018 VIP Reception 4:00 p.m.

Doors Open 5:00 p.m.

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Provides emergency assistance for utilities, rent and food for those in crisis in the Arlington community.

ArlTodayHalfPage.indd 1

2/9/18 10:16 PM

Thursday, April 19, 2018 | 7:30PM

Symphony Arlington Concert

Mahler - Symphony No. 1 in D Major (“Titan”)

Thursday, May 10, 2018 | 7:30PM

Alex McDonald

Brahms - Piano Concerto No. 2 in Bb Major

THANKS TO OUR SEASON SPONSORS

ARLINGTON MUSIC HALL 224 N. Center St. • Arlington, TX 76011

For more information, visit www.symphonyarlington.org

817.385.0484 info@symphonyarlington.org arlingtontoday.com • April 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

81

Finish Line

Thanks, neighbor Faye Reeder has been a consummate role model of community service • By Richard Greene

O

ccasionally in the life of a community someone comes along who transcends the high calling of helping others through both their professional and personal involvement with a purpose that inspires us all.

My wife Sylvia and I have had the opportunity to know such a person for the past five decades. But we are simply fortunate to be among a cast of countless others who have shared that privilege.

Being neighbors with Faye Reeder and her family in those early years led to her and my wife becoming friends in the days of their PTA work at Key Elementary, Gunn Jr. High and Martin High School as our children attended school together.

That relationship even opened the door for Faye’s son Brandon to be named as the Texas PTA student legislative liaison, an opportunity that ultimately led to the development of his current long and successful career representing clients across the state with their lawmakers in Austin.

As a close friend, Faye was whom Sylvia called upon for a quick ride to the hospital when she couldn’t locate me on the occasion of the onset of labor that was quickly going to result in the birth of Faye Reeder our youngest daughter.

Their relationship expanded when Faye joined the efforts to launch the River Legacy Foundation and its mission to build the Living Science Nature Center and further enhance the community’s experience in what became the city’s largest park project.

Later I would have the opportunity to recommend her services to the Star-Telegram, where she became the paper’s community representative across the cities the paper served.

In that role, she became involved in just about every event, activity and occasion of the community’s charitable and public service organizations. That meant she worked every day and most nights as an active leader and participant helping to improve the quality of life for incalculable numbers of people.

She probably holds the record as the person who has attended more meetings, parades, community concerts, receptions, luncheons, dinners and myriad fund-raising events than anyone else.

While I don’t have an actual accounting of it, I feel perfectly safe in

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saying that very likely there are no community service organizations that have not benefited from Faye’s work both in her capacity as a newspaper representative and simply serving personally as an active volunteer with their work.

Her job included authoring weekly columns in the paper and all its electronic outlets that made her the “go-to source” for information about what was taking place throughout the area.

That almost 20-year career came to a conclusion with her recent retirement that has led to an outpouring of congratulatory and grateful expressions that have lit up the social media in ways rarely seen before.

Hundreds of likes, shares, and comments have come from community leaders, school board and city council members, service clubs, non-profits, grateful citizens and friends wanting to express their appreciation for her service and love.

I’ve room here for just a couple that represent so many more who have wanted to express their appreciation for this special lady.

The Star-Telegram’s former executive editor Jim Witt’s Facebook post summed up the view from the paper: “You’ve been the epitome of what the StarTelegram should represent.”

Retired teacher and principal Jeanne PaullTurner recognized the depth of Faye’s involvement: “Life presents opportunities and the best people take those great opportunities and do for others. You are a treasure!”

By her side throughout her record involvement in all the activities and events of our area, her husband Jim Reeder may have said it best: “Congratulations to my incredible wife. You have made an amazing difference in the lives of so many. Well done. I love you dearly.”

Confident that God has plans for their future, Jim concludes that he is looking forward to the blessings yet to come in their lives together as they enjoy travel, family and lots of activities among the community they both love and that loves them back.

Richard Greene served as Arlington’s mayor from 1987-1997, was appointed by President George W. Bush as Regional Administrator to the EPA, and currently teaches in the University of Texas at Arlington’s graduate program in the College of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs.

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Gift cards available • Breast Augmentation • Robotic Hair Transplantation • Eyelid Lift Surgery • Tummy Tuck • Liposuction • Mini Facelift • Body Contouring after Massive Weight Loss • Vaginal Rejuvenation • Laser 360/Paragon Liquid Laser Lift • Ultherapy • Photofacials • Skin Resurfacing • Microdermabrasion • Botox/Fillers • Laser Hair/Tattoo Removal

Wrinkle-Free Tuesday 10am-5pm • Botox $12/unit

Wrinkle-Free Wednesday 9am-7pm • Botox $12/unit ~ Above Offers Available at ~

1101 Matlock Rd. Mansfield, TX 76063

Wrinkle-Free Monday 10am-5pm • Botox $12/unit

Wrinkle-Free Thursday 10am-5pm • Botox $12/unit ~ Above Offers Available at ~

1203 S. White Chapel Blvd., Ste. 150 Southlake, TX 76092

1101 Matlock Rd. Mansfield, TX 76063 • 817.952.6226

Winner 2017

Mark A. Bishara, M.D.

Harvard Fellowship trained in Aesthetic & Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Diplomate of ABHRS

1203 S. White Chapel Blvd., Ste. 150 Southlake, TX 76092 • 817.952.6226

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