April 2021

April 2021

your community • your magazine

Today

Stacie G. When I started my journey at Diet Solution I was on the verge of needing cholesterol medication. Now all my numbers are within the normal range.

As a teacher, I have more energy and able to do things I couldn’t befo before coming to Diet Solution Centers. I’ve left the old body behind and love the new me!!!

Stalcosiet ds n u o p 4 .

51 in 27 !!! weeks

After

Before

Contents

ON THE COVER

April 2021 • Volume 8 • Issue 4

HIGHLIGHTS 26

If you’re considering a pre-K program for your child, you should consider the Arlington ISD. Here are seven (of many) reasons why that’s a great choice.

See page 24

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DEPARTMENTS

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26 Teaching teachers

AISD’s “at home” curriculum during the COVID era earns kudos nationally

Starting Line 10 This ‘n Data 12 • Around Town 20 Scene 22, 60 • Style 32 Bulletin Board 66 • Keen Cuisine 68 Speaking of Sports 70 • Itinerary 72 Finish Line 74

28 My wedding, my story

New bride Emily Taylor shares her wedding tale

30 Viva, VIA!

IN THIS ISSUE

Arlington’s rideshare service has expanded to all key destinations in the city

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46 Kids say write the darndest things The City Council celebrates the winners of the Sheri Capehart Animal Essay contest

48 Car collection = stress relief

There are few things Dr. Ed Jordan would rather do than work on his ‘72 El Camino

52 One smart hospital

UTA’s revolutionary new facility will train social workers and nurses

54 Home SWEET! Home This “before/after” project has produced one fine looking (and comfortable) abode

56 THIS is how it’s done

Undaunted by several challenges, the Levitt Pavilion continues to make beautiful music

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

This month, we check out local entities that help make the Arlington/Mansfield/Grand Prairie area so special.

Faces/Places/Spaces ... page 36

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

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STARTING LINE your community • your magazine

EXECUTIVE BOARD Executive Publisher Judy M. Rupay

We’ve got your back

CEO Richard Greene

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ome eight years ago, as we prepared to launch this magazine, I wrote a letter to area businesspeople in an effort to introduce ourselves to our new neighbors – and to the local publishing market. It went something like this (OK, it went exactly like this): Arlington Today Magazine will hit the newsstands, mailboxes and waiting areas in September, thus launching a new era in local publishing history.

This cutting-edge product will tell the Arlington story as never before, as each issue will commemorate the vibrant, distinctive persona of the city and region we call home to our family, business and cultural endeavors.

For each edition we’ll go where you go, eat where you eat, work where you work and celebrate where you celebrate – all so you can finally have a publication that “really gets” Arlington and the Arlington area.

Yale That was the plan, “back in the Youngblood day.” On this day, some 89 issues Editor later, here’s how that plan has panned out: If you saw the cover (and who doesn’t revel in covers that feature cute kids?), you might suspect that we’re big on local education. If you read the story on page 24 that the cover promotes, you’ll become a little smarter yourself – especially if you’re the parent of a pre-K child.

Before you even get to page 24, you’ll be told that the Arlington area is about to have a renovated museum, already has a new glass art gallery, is home to not-onebut-two of the more successful country music artists in the nation, is also home to a high school student who is so gifted that an app she created is taking social media by storm, and boasts of one really cute canine.

Elsewhere in this issue, you’ll discover more than a dozen faces/places/spaces worth noting (because the faces that inspired or created the places/spaces have stories worth sharing). You’ll see a classic car and a classically renovated home.

You’ll meet a local man who might be the finest finder of bargains in all the world, as well as a local woman who just experienced one fine wedding day and shares her story about it.

There are also stories about what’s going on at the University of Texas at Arlington, in Mansfield and around the horn for your Texas Rangers. If you’re looking for something fun or edifying to enjoy, we’ll show you on our Itinerary page where to go to satisfy that craving. Speaking of cravings, your tummy will thank you for turning to our Keen Cuisine dining guide, selecting one of the options and routing the car in that direction. Oh, and you’ll also get a great snapshot of the Arlington area via the many snapshots in our Scene section.

Here’s the deal: I said it in 2013, and I’m still saying it eight years later: Arlington Today is THE publication of record for this city and region. And, boy, is it fun and satisfying to say that still.

yale@arlingtontoday.com Visit arlingtontoday.com, like us on Facebook 10

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

and follow us on Twitter

Today

and Instagram

EDITORIAL Editor Yale Youngblood Sports Columnist John Rhadigan Special Columnist Major General Patrick Brady Website & Social Media Manager Bailey Woodard Graphic Artist Francisco Cuevas Contributing Writer Kenneth Perkins Contributing Photographers Dwayne Lee, Heather Lee, Bruce Maxwell SALES / CIRCULATION Business Manager Bridget Dean Sales Managers Laura DiStefano, Andrea Proctor, Debbie Roach, Tricia Schwartz Distribution Manager Hanna Areksoussi PRODUCTION Production Manager Francisco Cuevas ARLINGTON TODAY is published monthly.

Copyright 2021 Arlington Today, Inc. 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.

To subscribe, e-mail subscriptions@arlingtontoday.com.

ARLINGTON TODAY GIVES BACK Arlington Today magazine proudly sponsors the AISD Foundation, Arlington Charities, the Miracle League, The Salvation Army, Theatre Arlington and Urban Ministries.

Phone number: (817) 303-3304

JimRossLaw.com

THE OFFICIAL LAW FIRM PARTNER OF

Call Jim Ross Law Group for your free consultation at (817) 2754100 or text "lawyer" to 313131.

FAMILY & INJURY ATTORNEYS Principal Office - Arlington TX

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THIS ‘N DATA

With the grant from the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation, Theatre Arlington will be primed to better serve established patrons, as well as welcome new ones.

Golf tourney to benefit Miracle League DFW is scheduled for April 28

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he Miracle League DFW will host a charity golf tournament on April 28 at the Texas Rangers Golf Club in Arlington.

Check-in begins at 12:30 p.m., with play starting at 1:30 p.m.

Proceeds from the event will help fund The Miracle League, which provides children and young adults the opportunity to play baseball regardless of their abilities. The Miracle League removes the barriers that keep children with mental and physical disabilities off the field and allows them to experience playing as part of a team. Games are played on a custom-designed, rubberized turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other devices while helping to prevent injuries.

A variety of sponsorship levels are available for the tournament, ranging from a $250 fee for one player to the Field of Dreams level sponsorship, which costs $12,500 and covers 12 players (three teams).

To sign up to play, to sponsor a team or to find more information about the tournament, visit urlzs.com/xAqpn.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

THEATRE ARLINGTON TO GET A MAJOR RENOVATION THANKS TO THE ARLINGTON TOMORROW FOUNDATION

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he Arlington Tomorrow Foundation recently awarded Theatre Arlington a $2,000,000 capital project grant. Since 2007, the ATF has contributed almost $21 million to the great city of Arlington to keep it thriving by supporting the causes which benefit the citizens and enhance the natural surroundings and lifestyle of the city.

Since 1991, when Theatre Arlington purchased and moved into the old Kier Lumberyard building, various improvements and renovations had been done on the building that sits at the corner of West and Main Streets in Downtown Arlington. But the grant will create virtually a new Theatre Arlington.

Theatre Arlington’s renovation project, which began on March 1, will include major changes to the theater building lobby and entry, including a new ticket counter and service bar, a donor wall, art and marquee. The lobby will be expanded to the east, and the house will receive new seating and stairs. Technical upgrades and equipment for productions will include new light board and circuitry, intelligent LED Lighting, and a newly thought-out lighting grid. Sound equipment, computer software, sound board and stationary microphones will be included. Computer monitors, video projectors, and cameras for streaming will be added to the newly positioned technical booth, as well as new electrical distribution throughout the main panels.

“All of us at the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation are delighted to be a catalyst for the renewal of Theatre Arlington’s theatre, acoustics and audience experience,” says Executive Director Carolyn Mentesana.

“We are confident these upgrades will transform our beloved theatre and promises to engage and entertain future generations of performers, audience and visitors to Arlington.”

RAISE YOUR HAND if you knew that the Pink Thing ice cream delicacy introduced at Six Flags Over Texas in the 1960s was originally called a “Pink Buried Treasure.” Keep that hand up if you also can recall that the supplier of the Pink Thing was Blue Bell Creameries, which discontinued them in 2011.

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THIS ‘N DATA

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SCOOPS

AS SHE SEES IT, THE GLASS IS (STILL) HALF FULL

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ontempo Art Glass Gallery owner Kathy Barnett was feeling her oats some 14 months ago. The longtime artist had realized her dream, opening her own gallery and glass art store at 1101 S. Bowen Road.

Then the COVID lockdown came.

“It definitely wasn’t the best time to open a new business,” Barnett says. “The first year was a challenge, for sure.”

It also represented an opportunity for Barnett to channel her creativity into a business model. She began selling to customers out of a side door and offering socially distanced classes to ensure the safety of attendees. While she moonlighted at her old job as an MRI technician, she never gave up her dream of turning Contempo Art Glass Gallery into a local hot spot for viewing, making and learning about glass art. Now, as the business climate is turning for the better, Barnett is eager to make an unexpected Plan B a foundation for success. She has reopened the gallery to the public and is targeting active senior citizens for classes. And she has made Contempo Art Glass Gallery a “go to” destination for parties and other gatherings. Suggestion: Go to it.

For more: contempoartglass.com

1. Coldwell Banker Realty in Texas has recently named Gina Mack as the new managing broker for the company’s Arlington/Mansfield and Ellis County Regional Offices. In this role, Mack will lead approximately 62 affiliated sales associates. In the past 14 years, Mack has worked in nearly every aspect of the industry, representing sellers, buyers, builders, and investors in the residential real estate market.

2. A survey taken by 632 Mansfield residents revealed that they are more highly satisfied with city services than residents in most other cities in Texas and nationwide. The survey showed there were several top priorities where improvements could be made, notably regarding traffic flow and congestion management, maintenance of city streets and timing of traffic signals on city streets.

3. A year-long project to rebuild a mile of 24-to-36inch-diameter sanitary sewer main through parts of Lake Arlington Golf Course has been completed. The $4.8 million project, which began in October 2019, replaced approximately 5,000 feet of sanitary sewer main.

LOCAL ARTISTS TAKE ACM AWARDS SHOW BY STORM

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Mickey Guyton Photo: howafrica.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Maren Morris Photo: yahoo.com

rlington will have a major presence at the 2021 Academy of Country Music Awards program, which will be held at 8 p.m. on April 18, with the main action taking place at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry House and additional performances from the Ryman Auditorium and Bluebird Cafe.

Local singer and nominee for New Female Artist of the Year Mickey Guyton will co-host the event, and Maren Morris has been nominated for six awards. Morris’ hit “The Bones” was nominated for single of the year and earned her two nominations as songwriter and artist for song of the year.

She was nominated for female artist of the year and music video of the year. She had another nomination for the all-star collaboration “The Highwomen” in Group of the Year.

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THIS ‘N DATA

She gets an ‘A’, as in ‘App’

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high-tech invention by a student at Arlington AISD’s STEM Academy has earned her national recognition – while paving Michelle Nguyen the way to meeting new friends Photo: City of Arlington who share her interests. Attending the school on the Martin High School campus served as the inspiration for “Clava,” an award-winning app designed by 16-year-old junior Michelle Nguyen.

The light-bulb moment was born from Nguyen’s interactions with classmates at STEM Academy from all over the city.

“I realized that even though we all lived in Arlington and went to Arlington public schools, our experiences and the environments we were surrounded by were different,” Nguyen says.

Bridging those differences with the shared interests of students from across Arlington ISD led Nguyen to design “Clava.” The app connects people to others with similar likes, regardless of where they live and what school they attend.

“For example, the computer science scene at Martin is stronger than most other high schools, so someone interested in CS at another school would have a harder time finding peers with that same interest,” Nguyen explains. “I wanted to help lessen those differences and provide a way for students to connect in a meaningful way.

After all, doing something you like with other people helps keep you motivated.”

Motivation has not been an issue for Nguyen. She’s taken part in computer science competitions since her freshman year. STEM Academy/Martin teacher James Hovey coached Nguyen in those contests, and has been her advanced computer science instructor the past two years.

“More so than any student I’ve had before, Michelle loves to compete,” Hovey says. “These competitions require and teach skills far beyond what we learn in class.

She competes in coding competitions, many different web design competitions, app development and a variety of cybersecurity competitions.”

Clava earned Nguyen national recognition, with the late Rep. Ron Wright naming her as the winner of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge. More than 6,500 students registered for the 2020 Congressional App Challenge, submitting 3,088 functioning apps amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nguyen also plays tennis for Martin, serves as a peer mentor for STEM Academy freshmen, and founded the Girls Who Code club. And her cleverness isn’t confined to just coding. Clava is Latin for “club.”

Arlington By the numbers 16

278 feet

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TEX GALA WILL FEATURE TIM MCGRAW CONCERT

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he Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation will present the TEX Gala at 6 p.m. on June 21 on the field at Globe Life Field. The highlight of the gala will be a concert by country music superstar Tim McGraw.

Proceeds from the foundation’s signature annual event, which had to be postponed last year due to the pandemic, will benefit the community, especially children, the military and first responders and their families. The gala will feature dinner, the concert, a live auction and a silent auction with hundreds of unique items.

For more: urlzs.com/Sxzhm

#atpetofthemonth

Bella is our 3-month-old Shih Tzu. She is playful and loves balls. She chases and moves the soccer ball all over our backyard. She has been such a joy to our family.

– Michelle Hoover

$1.5 million

The distance from the playing surface at Globe Life Field to the top of the retractable roof

The percentage of the 220,000-plus UTA alumni who live in North Texas

The cost to construct the Caelum Moor structures and park in the entertainment district

Source:mlb.com/rangers

Source: uta.edu

Source: arlingtontx.gov

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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AROUND TOWN

Want a bargain? Get to know ‘The Freebie Guy’

Photo: Kenneth Perkins

Kendall Motzny, Motzney,aka aka The Freebie Guy

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“I started looking into other free samples online,” Motzny ext time you catch a minute or two, fire up YouTube, says. “Now it was much easier. I had Internet.” where The Freebie Guy reigns as a sort of energizer Motzny began stalking the Facebook page Julie’s Freebies, bunny of bargains, a crafty connoisseur of clearances, which he would eventually take over, expanding her 4,500 a detector of drastically deep discounts and giveaways. followers to 1.8 million.

He’s part Robin Hood, part Santa, part Pied Piper, and six From there he concocted The Freebie Guy, dressing up in million followers cling to his social media channels, where wild attire conducting games and spinning wheel giveaways he unloads a dizzying amount of cost-saving tips, steals and like some sort of Bob Barker of Free. deals, birthday freebies, and not just the latest sweepstakes but It took off, and before long, The Freebie Guy had his own guidance on exactly how to actually win them. (Yeah, people thing going, and followers were becoming devoted in part do win, and it’s a mixture of math and patience). because he was devoted to them.

There’s the $89 Fisher Price Kitchen Play set for $39, a Now Motzny facilitates an army of deal trackers who 2-Person Brazilian-Style Hammock marked down to $69 from dutifully alert him to the stuff he might have missed. The big, $196, the Burger King Whopper for a buck. One YouTube video 90-percent-off stuff gets special shout outs on Instagram Live shows The Freebie Guy zipping around DFW crashing scores of as “a clearance emergency,” which, in his world, really is such Walmart stores before hitting the clearance jackpot at a Target, a thing. finding a $299 Pack ‘N Roll Bounce House for $89 and spending “I still can’t quite wrap my head just $400 on $1,200 worth of stuff. around this, what it has become,” The look on his face after snagging Motzny says. “Some things I really these goodies says it all – it’s pure joy, didn’t take into consideration.” though not the gluttonous elation of a Like fame. A woman who spotted man looking to profit on Ebay.

Kenneth Perkins him in Dollar General nearly leaped He donates his finds to charities like in his arms. Store workers know him. the Hope Center, Dwell with Dignity, Exactly where this might go, well, it’s Mission Arlington, and Jonathan’s A WOMAN WHO spotted anyone’s guess. Motzny doesn’t know Place, non-profits with special himself. He’s merely following his affinities for children and families him in Dollar General nearly calling, the one instilled in him long needing to stretch a dollar into two, of leaped into his arms. Store ago. which he knows intimately. workers know him.

“I can’t resist stuff. I can’t say no,” The Freebie Guy is actually Kendall Motzny confesses.

Motzny, who grew up in Corsicana He really can’t. There’s stuff all around his Arlington home, with a family that moved constantly for financial survival. including a brand new iPhone he picked up for $19. Just sitting Things were so dire their trailer was repossessed. He learned there. “If you are getting 90 percent off a cell phone, how can early the delight of the infomercial and its 1-800 paradise you leave it in the store?” he asks. where you ask for and receive free stuff right in your mailbox.

I suppose it goes back to his empty Christmases and That in itself is a thrill he can’t quite describe. birthdays in Corsicana. He remembers circling everything in “I knew a lot of other kids who loved getting mail, but I was the Sears catalog and getting none of it. more or less obsessed with it,” says Motzny, who was only seven.

Now that he can get it, he gives it away and helps others get “Just the idea of getting something with my name on it.” it, too. “It’s fun, a lot of work,” Motzny said. “But when people Years later, while working as a waiter, he noticed on his message me and say, ‘Oh my God, you were right, I got this for Facebook feed a free sample of duct tape. Duct tape? Free? He whatever price, it’s just very rewarding.” was seven again waiting at the mailbox.

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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The winter storm of 2021 took aim at businesses, schools, churches, and homes across DFW. We have been fortunate that the City of Arlington has raised and supported RJ Construction for many years. This level of trust and commitment to #teamRJ enabled us to support the unsustainable demand for help. Busted water pipe after busted water pipe, collapsed ceilings, and even house fires.

We thank each and everyone of you who reached out and trusted us for help. I have always said that your home's tragedy is our game da day. By trusting RJ Construction you continue to help our staff earn a living and provide for their families for many years to come. We just can't thank you enough.

Thank you to our staff. The long hours and late nights don’t go unnoticed. My team jumped in the truck and found that 4 wheel drive and navigated the snow to make sure all calls got cleared.

Freezing temperatures, soaked socks, tired legs, and a passion to help. I promise you they wouldn’t have it any other way.

Sincerely Robert and Jaime Jordan

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PICTURE-PERFECT MOMENTS

Scene

Snapshots of note from places and events in the Arlington/Mansfield/Grand Prairie area

Alliance for Children Let’s Play Bingo! luncheon Sandy Cook and Christine Alphin

Lori Radke, Songul Agir and Serena Kundysek

Photos: Alliance for Children

Julie Evans, Becki Brandenburg and Sheri Hagwood

Jenny Berger, Sharon Mullarkey, Haley Pierce, Gayle Brice, Regena Wicker, Johnny Hubble, Valeta Gart and Sheila Herald

AISD vaccinations

Photos: City of Arlington

Feb. 8 was a special day in the local vaccination process, as on that date, the Arlington Department administered more than 2,600 Johnson and Johnson vaccines to teachers, administrators, and support staff from the Arlington ISD. .

State of the City virtual presentation

Photos: City of Arlington

Mayor Jeff Williams shared six years of city accomplishments during his final State of the City address last month. The address, presented virtually by the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, featured the National Anthem by the Lamar Madrigals and tributes to Williams from dignitaries such as Thasunda Brown Duckett, CEO of Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America.

Mansfield Public Library

Photos: Prince Lebanese Grill

In March, the Mansfield Public Library spotlighted members of its staff in a video that was part of the library’s celebration of “Employee Appreciation Month.”

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

New AISD high schoo school band trailers are here

Photos:City Arlington ISD Photo: of Arlington

New band trailers – one for each of the Arlington ISD’s six traditional high schools – arrived in Arlington last month.

Arlington Today Ad 8x4.8125 April 2021.pdf

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COVER STORY

Photos: Arlington ISD

Seven Reasons Why Pre-K Will Give Your Child a Head Start

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t’s coming fast – that first day of pre-K. That day when you can’t believe your child – your baby – is already old enough to go to school.

It’ll be an emotional day for every parent and tears are pretty common (from parents). But whether you shed a few tears because you can’t believe your baby is already this big, or your tears flow from joy because you so desperately need a parenting break (or some of both), that first day of pre-K – and, in fact, every day of pre-K – will be a good day.

You’ll probably be a little sad on that first morning when you leave your child at school and drive away with an empty car seat. But you’ll also feel good because you’ll know you made the right choice to give them a head start.

If you’re considering a pre-K program for your child, we want you to pick the Arlington ISD. Here are just seven of the many reasons the Arlington ISD is the best choice for your child.

Love No one can love your child like you do, but you might be surprised how close your child’s pre-K teacher comes. When your child joins our pre-K program, they (and you) become part of our family. To our pre-K teachers, your child is not merely a

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student in their class. Our teachers treat students as though they were their own, quickly developing tight bonds.

Our pre-K teachers – all of them certified in early childhood education – are a special breed. And they’ll do whatever it takes to help their “kiddos” succeed.

“Pre-K teachers teach pre-K because they have a passion for young children,” said Kelly Schrader, pre-K team leader at Miller Elementary. “They eat, breathe and sleep pre-K. There is nothing better than getting to see your student’s faces every day. The love between pre-K teachers and their students is indescribable.”

Fun Your child will want to go to school because it’s fun! They’ll experience arts and crafts, singing and dancing, reading books, playing dress-up, making believe, exploring, creating, and so much more!

“Exploration and creativity are embedded in all of our pre-K lessons,” said Dr. Jackeline Orsini, Arlington ISD director of early childhood learning. “It’s a really fun time.”

Learning The fun ties right into the learning and that’s because Arlington ISD makes purposeful play a big part of every day.

“We know that children are naturally curious. They are fascinated by how and why things work,” said Nynve Sanchez, a pre-K teacher at Crow Leadership Academy. “When we combine play by building sensory-rich experiences for students to explore, discover and ask questions, it develops the natural curiosity they have as children into becoming life-long learners.

“Play provides the vehicle for students to be able to grow and develop many skills,” she added. “By exploring and playing, they can build their social and emotional skills, fine motor skills, problem-solving skills, vocabulary and gain the confidence to try new things, making them more independent.”

Safe None of the fun and learning matters if safety doesn’t come first.

And it does in the Arlington ISD. We all hope the COVID-19 pandemic will be behind us by the time school starts again in the fall.

But if it’s not, we will continue to employ every safety protocol we can to keep our students and their teachers safe.

But safety isn’t just about COVID. It’s about clean buildings, safe equipment and supplies. It’s about school security systems, policies and consistent, loving adult supervision. All of these are things we do well.

Playgrounds Playgrounds could have gone in the fun category, but considering how important a good playground is to a three or four-year-old, it deserves its own. And while Arlington ISD’s elementary schools already have good playgrounds, each school is getting two new and better ones funded by the 2019 Bond. One of those two will be purposefully built for your child, for kids pre-K through first grade. The playgrounds will be fully accessible so that every child can enjoy them. They will include shade structures and rubber surfaces which means more fun and improved safety.

Free Arlington ISD is free for students who qualify. To qualify, students need to meet at least one of the following eligibility requirements: • Unable to speak and comprehend English • Economically disadvantaged – eligible to participate in the national free or reduced-price lunch program • Homeless • The child of an active duty member of the armed forces of the United States or a member of the armed forces who was

injured or killed while serving on active duty • Is or has ever been in foster care • Child of a person eligible for the Star of Texas Award If you don’t qualify, Arlington ISD also offers paid pre-K at 17 schools. Priced considerably less than other options, Arlington ISD is not only the highest-quality option but also the most affordable.

Options Arlington ISD offers half-day pre-K classes for three-year-olds, full-day for four-year-olds, ESL and bilingual pre-K options. We also have free and tuition-based programs and even a unique pre-K program that partners with Head Start to foster child development along with parent support resources.

If you work outside the home and need full-day childcare for

your three-year-old, our community-based pre-K is the answer.

Students get seamless, convenient daycare both before and after the half-day pre-K programming without ever having to leave and go to another care location. Plus, the pre-K program is taught by a certified Arlington ISD teacher with the same outstanding play-based curriculum, materials and technology used at all of our schools.

Deciding where you send your baby to pre-K is a big decision.

If you’re ready to register and get started with Arlington ISD or want to learn more, please visit aisd.net/prek. And if you have more questions or concerns, we understand and want to help.

Send us an email at prekquestions@aisd.net or give us a call at (682) 867-9418.

The first day of pre-K will be here before you know it. We can’t wait to meet you and your child! arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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EDUCATION

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OVID-19 has not only affected how teachers teach their students, it has also impacted how they learn themselves, how they develop their own skills, and how they access support for the curriculum they teach.

Teachers’ time is at a premium like never before, and they simply don’t have the flexibility or opportunity to attend professional learning seminars or visit with mentors in

class, they don’t have time to wait,” Wallace says of teachers in the K-12 Dive article. “Having on-demand PD experiences has been enhanced by COVID and will likely be continuing well into the future.”

The curriculum and instruction department works hard to ensure that Arlington ISD teachers and leaders have access to a guaranteed and viable curriculum aligned to state standards and to provide curriculumbased professional learning to its various core content teachers.

The department’s “PL in Pajamas” is designed to ensure teachers have access to that curriculumbased professional learning AISD’s ‘at home’ curriculum despite the pandemic and during the COVID era earns restrictions on in-person meetings. kudos on a national website Currently, most of the “PL in Pajamas” sessions are self-paced, professional learning opportunities that teachers can access online whenever they have time and need it.

For teachers who prefer a facilitated professional learning session, live virtual opportunities are offered at 5 p.m. when teachers are home. However, some teachers need an even later option, so person. Nevertheless, the need for professional learning, Wallace’s team created “March Madness,” when they offered coaching and support is as important as ever. sessions as late as 8:30 p.m. For teachers who couldn’t watch Connie Wallace, Arlington ISD director of curriculum live, the sessions were recorded and made available onand instruction, and her team were quick to recognize the demand. challenges of COVID-19 and seize opportunities available In addition to the sessions, the curriculum and instruction online to fill the gap. They developed a new model of department has introduced online office hours. support in an effort to better assist teachers in their need for “We put in place virtual office hours, so at any given time professional learning help during the pandemic. [educators can] log into a Zoom to link and engage with Wallace and her team call it “PL in Pajamas” and they have members of our department to get on-demand support,” been recognized for their innovation in K-12 Dive, a website Wallace says. and newsletter that covers “the most impactful news and For more: k12dive.com/news/4-k-12-professionaltrends shaping K-12 education.” development-trends-to-watch-in-2021/593934 “When they are up at 2 a.m. putting together a video for a

TEACHING

TEACHERS

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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ogan and Emily Taylor were married on Feb. 21 at Bella Woods in Midlothian. Here, in a Q&A format, Emily shares highlights of their big day, along with other thoughts about how it came to be – and where they visited after the ceremony was concluded.

Why did you choose that venue?

We really were drawn to the location and look of the venue. We loved the separation of the chapel for the ceremony and the open, two-story reception hall next door. What sold us, however, were the owners of the wedding venue. From the introduction of the venue to walking through the whole process and enmities provided, Darrell and Kim May made it easy choosing Bella Woods.

How long have you and Logan known each other, and when did you become engaged? Please share some memories of that moment, too.

Logan and I have known each other for about 10 years, since early high school. We were engaged in Crested Butte, Colo., on June 30, 2020.

Logan planned the whole day, having my family go for a morning fishing excursion to throw off my scent. Then my dad and he drove back in different cars, come to find out they were going to pick his sister up from the airport who he had flown in for this engagement.

They dropped her off at our rental house and knocked on the front door, letting me come and answer with complete surprise. She handed me a note Logan wrote me telling me today was the day, that my mom and sisters brought 10 dresses for me to choose from and that he would meet down in a field over looking the mountains in a few hours. From there I got ready, spent time with my sisters and mom, and then was driven to the spot where Logan was 28

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

waiting for me. He picked a beautiful scenic spot with a table full of pictures of us. He read a letter to me then got on one knee! It was perfect!

How many people attended your wedding?

230 people attended What are your and your husband’s favorite memories of the event?

A favorite was our first look. That moment was full of so much emotion. It was one of the only times of the whole day, as well, where we were able to just take a breath and spend a few minutes alone!

Our wedding was initially supposed to take place on Feb. 14, but snowpocolypse had different plans. So a bigger overarching memory we hold so dear from that day is when we were looking at everyone attending our ceremony, seeing many friends and family, feeling so much gratitude, especially since we didn’t even know a few days earlier if we were even going to be able to reschedule it for that weekend or anytime soon after that.

Who was involved in the planning and implementation of the wedding, and what did they do?

Most of the wedding was planned by my mom Julee and me. I’m the third and final daughter to get married in the family, so she was a pro and well prepared to tackle the intricacies of the planning process. I’m so thankful that I had her to help me throughout.

We also had an amazing “day of” coordinator, Carrie Hammons.

She helped take out all the stresses and last-minute details during the weekend/day of wedding. She made the day so peaceful and smooth for Logan and me.

Where did the wedding reception take place, and what were some of the highlights of that?

The wedding reception also took place at Bella Woods.

Some of the highlights were the detailing inside the building, including our beautiful center pieces, giant balloon installation, our last name in bright lights, and yummy cake-and-Krispy Kreme Donut bar.

Another highlight was the dance party and photo booth put on by our fantastic DJ, Nathan Acosta. He was very detail oriented by providing fresh and new experiences that differed from a traditional wedding reception. He made our reception so fun!

Where did you go on your honeymoon, and what about that stood out the most to you?

We went to Sandals resort in St Lucia.

We had the best time getting to relax at an all-inclusive resort right on the beach. The plethora of options we were given to experience was so nice. We would spend a whole day relaxing on the beach, then spend the next day playing golf, then going on an all-day boat excursion around the island where we snorkeled in three different locations and ate lunch from what they caught while we were on the boat. We definitely enjoyed lounging around, eating way too much food, and the couples massages were the best!

We were also so impressed with the extra precautions the resort, as well as the whole island, took to protect us from COVID. The frequent temperature checks, low capacity, and multiple negative tests we were to provide even before arriving gave us a peace of mind throughout the week.

We highly recommend this resort and island to everyone! arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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TRANSPORTATON

Book a ride. Get to where you want to go.

VIVA, VIA!

City’s rideshare service has expanded to all key destinations in the city • By Susan Schrock

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rlington’s on-demand public transportation service, Via Rideshare, has expanded its reach to all neighborhoods, shopping centers, offices, restaurants, medical facilities, and other key destinations across The American Dream City.

Over the past three years, Arlington has continually expanded the Via Rideshare service area to make affordable, on-demand public transportation accessible to even more residents, employees, and visitors.

In 2017, Arlington and Via launched Via Rideshare and became one of the first cities in the country to use on-demand technology as the primary public transportation solution to expand access to affordable, efficient, and convenient transit solutions. Now in its fourth year, the service continues to provide an equitable and flexible on-demand transportation offering that is free from fixed routes and schedules. Via’s platform routes passengers in real time to “virtual bus stops” within just a couple blocks for pickup and drop off, enabling multiple passengers headed in the same direction to efficiently share a single vehicle.

The new fares are based on trip distance, with a minimum of $3 per trip for rides up to 1.5 miles in length and a maximum of $5 per ride for trips over 6 miles in length. The detailed pricing schedule is available on the City’s Via website at arlingtontx.gov/via. The exact fare will be quoted to the rider before booking a trip. Trips to and from the CentrePort TRE Station remain at the $3 flat fare rate, no matter the distance from the point of origin. The weekly ViaPass, which allows for up to four trips per day, Monday through Saturday, increased from $15 to $25 per pass.

You can learn more about Via’s citywide expansion and other mobility improvements, including the completion of the voter-approved Collins Street rebuild between Park Row Drive and Pioneer Parkway, in the latest edition of the Enhance Regional Mobility newsletter.

All quarterly City Council priority newsletters are produced in a digital formal, allowing for layers of additional video content and important links. Visit tiny.cc/musutz.

In this issue: • Arlington’s Via Rideshare Service Area Expands Citywide • Citywide Street Projects and Updates • Collins Street Project Completed • A New Way to Keep Ice Off Bridges Being Developed • City of Arlington Continues Advancing Vehicle-to-Infrastructure with Connected Vehicle Technologies • Arlington Residents Invited to Name New RAPID Self-Driving Shuttle • By the Numbers

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Photos: City of Arlington

Fellowship and Five-Star Care

The Law Offices of Stephanie A. Foster, P.C. Deciding to divorce is one of the most important decisions a person can face so it makes sense to know your options. One option is traditional courtroom litigation. Another option is collaborative divorce.

Although attorney Stephanie A. Foster is prepared to be the warrior in your courtroom battle as she has been in thousands of Tarrant County divorce cases over the past 28 years, her preference is to be the peacemaker in your interest-based negotiations through the dignified, private, child-protecting process known as collaborative divorce which involves no court.

Stephanie A. Foster is confident that the collaborative process is a powerful way to generate creative solutions in family law disputes while minimizing financial and emotional damage to the couple and their children all the while promoting post-divorce psychological and financial health of the restructured family.

As a family law mediator and one of the first Tarrant County attorneys trained in collaborative law, attorney Stephanie A. Foster will help you navigate through your divorce options and zealously represent you through the process of your choice.

Contact attorney Stephanie A. Foster today to discuss your options.

One option is traditional courtroom litigation.

Another option is collaborative divorce.

Law Offices of Stephanie A. Foster, P.C. 4214 Little Road, Arlington, TX 76016 817-277-2805 • StephanieFosterLawyer.com

Litigator; Collaborator; Mediator

Winner 2018-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Divorce Attorney - by Arlington Today Readers

arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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GARDENING

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE

WATER

Chamber, AISD team to assist college-bound students in paying for their higher education

Arlington Water Utilities to host two informative garden-related classes this month

Photo: City of Arlington

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rlington Water Utilities, in partnership with Tarrant Regional Water District and the Arlington Public Library, will host two informative and fun spring events in April. The two events, Tough Texas Lawns and Gardens and a DIY Rainwater Harvesting Workshop, will be hosted online, and registration information is online at SaveArlingtonWater.com.

Tough Texas Lawns and Gardens April 12, 6 -7 p.m.

It’s no surprise to Texans that the weather is often, at best, unpredictable. It never hurts to have a lawn and garden tough enough to withstand the ever-changing Texas weather.

Participants will also learn about: • The ins and outs of landscape design • How to evaluate the needs of your landscape • Plants that need less water and maintenance • Turf types that need less water

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TRWD professionals will be in the virtual conference to walk participants through what makes the North Texas climate harsh and how to ensure that you have a healthy and vibrant landscape. They will also tell participants how they can create a vibrant yard on their own.

To register: urlzs.com/S4aN9 DIY Rainwater Harvesting April 17, 9 a.m. - noon A resident favorite is back this April. In this free online class, you can learn all about how you can use a rain barrel to collect rain and use the collected rainwater to water your lawn and garden. Participants will also learn about: • How much water the average house roof produces in a year • How to connect and use the rain barrel • How to DIY your own rain barrel To register: urlzs.com/41gfC For more: WaterIsAwesome.com

817-277-3131 arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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FACES/PLACES/SPACES

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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ANDREW DUININCK, Headmaster, Great Hearts Arlington

ndrew Duininck, the Headmaster at Great Hearts Arlington, is a passionate, experienced leader who has worked in the field of education for 10 years. This coming year, he will be establishing Great Hearts Arlington, a public academy with a mission to cultivate the minds and hearts of students through the pursuit of Truth, Beauty and Goodness.

Andrew graduated from Bethel University in St. Paul, Minn., with a degree in Elementary Education, and from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va., with a Master’s degree in Elementary Education. He has had experience in a variety of educational roles and situations and has developed expertise in working with staff and students in diverse settings, locations, demographics, and age groups.

Andrew and Amanda Duininck with their Andrew has had the opportunity to work in education around the world from private children: Archer, Atlas and Amaryllis schools and public schools to schools in Afghanistan and in Germany. He and his wife Amanda have taught in public schools in Oklahoma, in international schools in Indonesia, and in private schools in Illinois.

Andrew has worked with Great Hearts for a number of years and has been impactful in the establishment of three Great Hearts schools over the past eight years. He is extraordinarily passionate about providing a rigorous and holistic educational environment to all student populations. He is mission-driven and fervent about providing more families the opportunity to enroll their children in a Great Hearts Academy.

Andrew’s diverse educational opportunities have molded and shaped him into an effective educational leader. His work experience in educational settings around the world and in a variety of age groups and environments have given him a unique and well-rounded view of child development and a perspective for coaching teachers in unique situations. These opportunities, along with his academic and curricular expertise, will help him continue his journey of establishing effective schools. He and Amanda are excited to bring Great Hearts to the community of Arlington and to continue to pursue Truth, Beauty and Goodness with students and families.

Great Hearts Arlington • 6701 S. Cooper St. • andrew.duininck@greatheartsarlington.org • arlington.greatheartsamerica.org

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THE SANFORD HOUSE

f you’ve ever treated yourself to a “staycation” that included spending a night or weekend at The Sanford House, you are likely to have spent the weeks following your getaway telling friends about the great experience you had.

This luxurious boutique hotel located in historic downtown features 12 elegant combinations (including Villa Monaco; Villa Royale; Bristol Cottage; Regency Cottage; Riviera Cottage; Verona Cottage; the Bach and Strauss Carriage Houses; and the Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and Vivaldi rooms).

But that’s just part of the story. Private rooms can be reserved for groups up to 60 in the Manor House. The Grand Courtyard is an extraordinary venue for weddings and receptions for up to 200 guests. All catering is created and executed by the culinary team of Restaurant506. Full bar and fine wine selections are also available.

Speaking of the often-celebrated Restaurant506, this popular eatery features “Inspired American” cuisine. The culinary team creates delicious seasonal menus that are hand-made with the freshest ingredients. The restaurant is open to the public for lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Wednesday through Friday; it is open for dinner from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. on Wednesday through Saturday; and it is open for brunch from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The award-winning Sanford Spa & Salon is a stunning venue where men and women can experience an abundant selection of salon and spa services. The professional technicians are available Tuesday through Sunday to provide all personal care services.

The Sanford House • 506 N. Center St. • 817-861-2129 • thesanfordhouse.com arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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FACES, PLACES, SPACES ...

TEXAS HEALTH ARLINGTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

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exas Health Arlington Memorial is a 369-bed, acute-care hospital that is ranked among the best hospitals in Dallas-Fort Worth by U.S. News & World Report.

With a mission of improving the health of the people in the community, the hospital and physicians on its medical staff are committed to every patient’s well-being.

Texas Health Arlington Memorial offers the gamut of health care services, including: behavioral health; cancer care; cardiac rehabilitation; Diabetes care; digestive health; emergency department; ear, nose and throat care; fitness center; heart and vascular; hospice care; imaging; neurosciences; nutrition; orthopedics; rehabilitation; respiratory therapy; sports therapy; women and infants care and wound care.

In addition to the aforementioned services, Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital fortifies its bond with the community by offering regular classes focusing on health-related topics, such as childbirth education, family education, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and wellness and prevention.

The hospital has received acclaim on many fronts in recent years. Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital has received the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Fragility Fracture Certification, the first health care facility in the country to receive Joint Commission certification for a fragility fracture program.

It is also designated as a Magnet hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, an honor that recognizes hospitals for excellence in nursing, and was the first facility in Arlington to earn the designation. In 2019, Texas Health Arlington Memorial received a Get With The Guidelines® award for stroke and/or heart failure care, earning Gold Plus and Target Heart Failure Honor Roll award levels.

Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital 800 W. Randol Mill Road • 877-847-9355 • texashealth.org/locations/texas-health-arlington-memorial

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THE FAMILY LAW FIRM OF DONNA J. SMIEDT

oing through a divorce is never a pleasant experience. Even when facing an amicable separation with your spouse, the disruption of stability in a family can have a significant impact on everyone involved, including children. When your family faces obstacles, it is important to retain an attorney who understands all aspects of the divorce process in order to minimize the harmful effects a separation can have on your family. The divorce attorneys at The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt will protect your family’s best interest during these challenging times.

“At The Family Law Firm of Donna J Smiedt, we understand what you are going through and will work tirelessly to protect your best interests,” says the firm’s founder, Donna J. Smiedt.

Smiedt is a Board Certified Family Law Attorney - Texas Board of Legal Specialization who has received extensive training in this area. Additionally, her legal team is trained in collaborative law and mediation to achieve fair, effective, and amicable resolutions outside of the courtroom. During the pandemic, Smiedt crafted a number of measures to enhance service to the practice’s clients, making the firm an even more efficient and effective legal representative.

“We have creative solutions to resolve your family law conflicts outside of the stress of the courtroom, via collaborative law and mediation, as myself and my team are specially trained and certified in these forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution,” Smiedt says.

“Additionally, during this time of uncertainty and concern for the elderly and sick in our entire county, we are now offering, at a greatly reduced price, a Will package containing a Simple Will, Medical Power of Attorney, Durable Power of Attorney, and Directive to Physicians. We hope you don’t have to utilize these important legal documents now, but if you, a friend, or a family member do, please let them know that we are committed to expediting turnaround for these clients in need.”

The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt • 3216 W. Arkansas Lane • 817-572-9900 • arlingtondivorces.com 38

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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DR. MELISSA DANCHAK

r. Melissa Danchak began working at Kos/Danchak Audiology in 1997. She has owned the practice since 2002. Dr. Danchak earned her Bachelors in Communication Disorders from Abilene Christian University. She then earned her Masters in Audiology from The University of Texas at Dallas, and then earned her Doctorate of Audiology (Au.D.) from the University of Florida.

With over 23 years of experience helping those with hearing challenges in the Arlington and surrounding communities, Dr. Danchak’s passion for providing unparalleled care and service for her patients is on full display with the 100’s of online reviews her patients are sharing. While her formal education gave her the book knowledge needed to become an audiologist, Dr. Danchak certainly believes that learning is a lifelong process.

“Like any small business, we experience change, adversity, success, and a whole host of other ‘stuff’ on a regular basis,” she says. “We try to learn, every day. We evaluate how we help people and we try to make the hearing health care experience better for the people that we meet with each day. Our goal is for each person to have a better experience with us every time they visit. The fact that we have thousands of patients that have been trusting us with their hearing needs for 10 and 15 years tells us that we are doing a good job of providing a positive experience for our patients.”

Dr. Danchak and her team live by a fairly simple (professional) philosophy: do our absolute best to serve our patients and fellow employees to the best of our ability; continue to learn and grow, every day, so that we can accomplish that in the best way possible!

“We make a difference in people’s lives,” she says. “We see it on their faces when they hear and understand clearly what a loved one is saying. We see it when a spouse or child experiences the feeling of being able to communicate again without raising their voice or repeating themselves. Patients and their families share with us that their investment in better hearing, and us, has changed their lives.”

Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids • 101 West Randol Mill Road • 817-277-7039 • northtxhearing.com

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DIET SOLUTION WEIGHT LOSS CENTERS

iet Solution Weight Loss Centers were created by Dr. Richard Knight in Mansfield in 2011 with a mission to help the community get healthy and lose excess weight. Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers provide a medically monitored weight loss program that specializes in personal treatment for each patient. Before patients even begin the program they receive an EKG and undergo blood work that tests for cholesterol and thyroid levels. This evaluation also includes: BMI, weight, height, vitals, a B12 injection and Amino appetite suppressants.

The initial examination takes an hour. Thereafter, patients come in weekly to receive vitals, BMI, weigh in, and they are able to meet with center founder Dr. Richard Knight to determine how they can achieve the healthiest of results.

Dr. Knight says Diet Solutions Centers strive to achieve the best results for every individual patient.

“In order to achieve the best results, each patient will select the supplements that adhere to his or her goal,” he says.

To help patients reach their weight-loss/heath goals, DSC offers “extras” that help reduce hunger, increase lean muscle, reduce body fat, burn fat faster, maintain blood sugar levels, decrease mild signs of depression and more.

“DSC has a ZERO POLICY: ZERO gimmicks and ZERO prepackaged meals,” says Dr. Knight. “We are here to keep you accountable and cheer you on throughout your weight-loss journey!”

Diet Solution Centers Arlington: 2542 W. Pioneer Pkwy. • 817-277-3438 Mansfield: 920 U.S. Hwy. 287 N., Suite 306 • 817-453-3438 • dietsolutioncenters.com arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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FACES, PLACES, SPACES ...

GRACIE LANE

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ince opening in 2014, Gracie Lane has rapidly become recognized as the Arlington area’s premier shopping destination for pretty much anything that ends with “and the proverbial more.”

As long-time connoisseurs of the best shopping venues, the members of the Gracie Lane team have gathered the most impressive local collections – featuring all manner of delightful items that generally fall under the category of “the perfect something for the perfect someone.” And, get this: They put them for sale under one delightful roof.

When you visit Gracie Lane, you will be pleased with the quality and excited by the experience – plus you get an added bonus that comes in the satisfaction of supporting local businesses.

Gracie Lane’s inventory runs the gamut, from children’s clothing and accessories to stand-out pieces for women, from gifts that express true personal connections to home décor that will become focal conversation pieces, from a wide variety of jewelry items to the proverbial “more.”

Manager Mary Macken says the real key to Gracie Lane’s success, though, is the relationships she and the team build: “I believe our philosophy of treating every person that walks through our doors as a family member really resonates with our customers.”

Gracie Lane • 4720 S. Cooper St. • 817-468-5263 • gracielanecollection.com

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BRENDA HUNT, Owner, Great Skin Spa & Facial Club

renda Hunt, owner of Great Skin Spa & Facial Club, began her career in the skin care and beauty business more than a dozen years ago as the first U.S. franchisee of Canadian-based Faces cosmetics. Taking that experience, she founded Great Skin Spa & Facial Club 11 years ago in Arlington, where the company has continued to grow and gain notoriety as an exceptional day spa and skin care provider.

At Great Skin she not only shares her experience in creating and maintaining beautiful skin via state-of-the-industry technology and products; she also has championed the practice of receiving professional spa services as part of personal care, as opposed to a special occasional visit or gift due to affordability. Great Skin Facial Club members receive a wide range of treatment options at the spa, as well as guidance and products they can use at home to maintain fresh, youthful-looking skin.

“I developed the concept of Great Skin based on the goals of the thousands of clients – men and women – wanting to have more beautiful skin and manage the signs of aging skin through treatments, knowledge and skin care,” Hunt says.

As a result, Great Skin offers a full line of award-winning skin care products for anti-aging, acne, hyperpigmentation and general skin care, as well as skin and body care for men, women and teens. Two-plus years ago, Hunt introduced a product paying homage to her mother, Mattie, who was afflicted with Alzheimer’s: “Hemp Healing Cream” for skin and body care. GS is also known for its instant slimming treatments, and it now offers a special credit card that can be used specifically for beauty and health services.

Most recently, Hunt began an effort to heighten awareness and implement operating principals of disease control to keep clients and staff safe and healthy. “Also,” she notes, “we specialize in treating every skin type, tone and texture with excellent results from knowledge, education and experience.”

Great Skin Spa & Facial Club • 3851 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-478-2114• greatskin4you.com 40

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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KAREN SCHROEDER, Attorney at Law

fourth-generation Texan, Karen Schroeder is a hometown girl who grew up in Arlington, graduated from Arlington High School in 1985 and continues to reside in Tarrant County with her family.

Karen’s grandparents, Roy and Ruby Schroeder, moved to Arlington in 1968 after Roy retired from the U.S. Air Force. Her parents, Ken and Alice Schroeder, have been Arlington residents since 1972. Family is the cornerstone of her life, and she is the proud mother of two children, Alex (“my Aggie”) and Jessica (“Roll Tide”); two adult step-daughters, Chrissy and Ashley (“both Mean Green”); three grandchildren; and devoted wife to Brian Evans, whom she describes as “my greatest source of strength and encouragement.”

Karen’s passion is educating clients and the public on estate planning options with a goal of equipping them with the legal tools necessary to avoid costly and time-consuming probate. She opened her solo practice in Mansfield in 2009 after almost 15 years serving as in-house counsel for multiple corporations, and as an Assistant District Attorney.

Her law firm specializes in wills and trusts (including gun trusts), elder law and guardianships, asset and wealth protection, and probate.

Licensed as a Texas attorney since 1994, Karen has built a reputation as a problem-solver who serves clients’ needs with legal professionalism and a commitment to individualized attention. She believes in long-term partnerships and building relationships in the community she still lives in and loves.

Karen has enjoyed being a member of: St. Barnabas United Methodist Church, the Tarrant County Aggie Mom’s Club and the Bama Parents of North Texas group.

Come in and see why Karen is gaining your trust, one case at a time. She brings together homegrown charm and extensive legal experience.

Karen Schroeder, Attorney at Law • 550 N. Walnut Creek, #110, Mansfield • 817-842-0220 • KarenSchroederLaw.com

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HILTONS FLOORING

iltons Flooring is an ideal one-stop showroom for practically any floor-covering need. Since 2013, Hiltons Flooring has been passionately serving customers as an accredited business with an A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Hiltons Flooring offers the best and largest selection of carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile and stone in a friendly, comfortable and helpful atmosphere.

In addition to flooring, Hiltons also carries granite, marble, quartz, quartzite countertops, backsplash and showers, making it the ideal place to shop for practically any home improvement/enhancement project.

Its showrooms are staffed with flooring experts who go through continuous training to understand consumer needs, which means they can recommend the best possible floor choice based on your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

Even when you can’t make it to the showroom, Hiltons Flooring lets you shop 24-7 via its state-of-the art website, where you can view flooring options and get information on how to select a new floor when you want, and where you want.

The staff also offers the convenience of at-home shopping and will bring samples to your home and provide assistance in selecting the right floor for your needs.

All of Hiltons Flooring’s exclusive carpet brands come with a lifetime warranty on stain, soil and wear. The company carries many products that are “Made in the USA” and/or environmentally friendly. For all the products they sell, the Hiltons team offers full-service, professional installation by installers who have years of experience.

Hiltons Flooring • 2800 W. Division St., Suite D • 817-461-5189 • hiltonsflooring.com arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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FACES, PLACES, SPACES ...

THE LAW OFFICES OF STEPHANIE A. FOSTER

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tephanie Foster started her legal firm, The Law Offices of Stephanie A. Foster, P.C., in 1992 and for the nearly three decades since, she has been devoted to the practice of family law.

The practice concentrates in family legal issues, including divorce, modifications, custody, child support, spousal support, visitation, enforcement of custody/support, paternity and stepparent adoption.

Stephanie says her dream of having her own law practice was nurtured as a child by her father, John Foster, who is an attorney.

“When I was a child,” she recalls, “I would beg him to take me to work with him at his law firm every summer.”

Throughout her career, Stephanie has focused on family law.

“My professional philosophy is divorce with dignity,” she says, noting that she has taken many special measures to serve her clients in the best manner possible. “I was one of the first attorneys trained in collaborative law in 2008.

Collaborative Law is a way to divorce with dignity with no court and no war.”

She believes the collaborative law process is a powerful way to generate creative solutions in family law disputes while minimizing financial and emotional damage to the couple and their children, all the while promoting post-divorce psychological and financial health of the restructured family.

A graduate of Arlington Martin High School, Southern Methodist University and St. Mary’s Law School in San Antonio, Stephanie was named a “Top Attorney” by Fort Worth, Texas magazine in 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020.

The Law Offices of Stephanie A. Foster • 4214 Little Road, Suite 1000 • 817-277-2805 • StephanieFosterLawyer.com

ANYTHING GOES

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nything Goes has become a go-to place for North Texas-area shoppers who are looking for that “special something” for everyone from infants to adults.

Fun and unique products line the shelves and are handselected by owner Mary Davis, whose keen eye brings the fun into shopping from visit to visit.

Anything Goes started out as a dream and has far exceeded Mary’s expectations. Beginning with 1,200 square feet, Anything Goes has gone through two expansions and now occupies over 3,600 square feet of showroom space.

The growth has been exciting and is attracting customers from all over the Metroplex.

Though Anything Goes is closed on Sunday and Monday, you can shop pretty much any time the lights are on. Although Mary’s responsibilities include the overall operations of the store, her main philosophy is to keep the customer first and ensure that each person that comes to Anything Goes has a great shopping experience.

Traveling to different markets such as Las Vegas, New York and Atlanta allows Anything Goes to bring diverse and unique products from across the country.

“I work hard to find our customers new products so they have the diversity in the gifts that they’re giving, and there’s always something new and fresh for them on the shelves,” Mary says. “Anything Goes prides itself in the level of customer service that we provide and making everyone feel at home the minute they walk in the door.”

Anything Goes • 2504 W. Park Row Drive, Suite A • 817-542-0862 • anythinggoesgiftshop.com 42

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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ACTIVE FAMILY WELLNESS CENTER

ctive Family Wellness Center was founded by Dr. Kenyon Godwin in 2010 and combines education, training and people-focused service to help communities live longer, stronger, healthier lives.

A seven-time All Star in Arlington Today’s annual Readers Choice poll, AFWC also has been named the Arlington Chamber of Commerce’s Veteran-owned Small Business of the Year. The practice has become so highly regarded by patients that Dr. Godwin opened a second office in the North Arlington area almost three years ago.

The practice offers an effective lifestyle modification program utilizing Functional Medicine. This program incorporates the best of wellness: Chiropractic, Nutrition, Detox, Comprehensive labs, Supplements, Massage, Fitness, Mentorship and Meditation / Prayer. Dr. Godwin and his team offer specific science-based adjustments, corrective care for scoliosis and weakened spines, spinal decompression and injury prevention for all levels of athletes. On the wellness side, AFWC offers weight loss, prenatal adjustments, pediatric adjustments, health talks and organic, all-in-one vitamins. Active Family Wellness Center uses cutting-edge technology and now offers Dr. Kenyon Godwin, founder of Active Family Wellness Center advanced 3D functional movement analysis and the latest software for notes, check-in and appointment reminders.

“My team and I have one ultimate goal: to make sure you get results,” Dr. Godwin says. “We often see people with headaches, neck pain, herniated discs, sciatica or prenatal and pediatric concerns. We treat folks of all ages – infants with colic just starting out in the world, adults who wish to experience everyday wellness, and seniors who wish to feel active and mobile throughout their golden years.

We help the whole family. We believe people should have the freedom to pursue their purpose without limitations.”

Active Family Wellness Center

North Arlington: 4120 N. Collins St., #200 • South Arlington: 4927 S. Collins St., Suite 105 • 817-557-2770 • txwellnessdoc.com

J

JOHN PARKER, Entrepreneur

ohn Parker is the owner of two successful local businesses: Parker & Richardson, a certified public accountant firm located in Mansfield, and Texas Insurance Agency.

Over the past decade and a half-plus, Parker & Richardson has evolved into a boutique CPA practice that specializes in catering to the distinct needs of business owners. Whether you need tax planning, tax return preparation, strategic or transactional consulting, small business consulting, business valuation, state and local tax assistance, or a full complement of other individualized services, Parker & Richardson has the people and capabilities to respond effectively and efficiently to your needs.

Texas Insurance Agency traces its start back to 1959 in east Texas, and Parker liked the agency’s concept so much that he established a branch, also in Mansfield.

Texas Insurance Agency provides auto, homeowners, commercial, and life insurance. It is associated with reputable insurers, including Allstate, Nationwide, Hartford, Progressive, Safeco and Travelers.

“People often ask why choose a local Independent Agency?” says Parker. “Our response is we represent many different insurance companies, so we can compare coverage and price to give you the best possible value. Simply put ... we work for our clients. We also live and work in the same communities as our insured clients, and as such we are always available for a face-to-face meeting.”

Parker & Richardson • 500 E. Broad St., Mansfield • 817-226-6100 • parkercpas.com Texas Insurance Agency • 500 E. Broad St., Mansfield • 817-226-9988 • texasins.net arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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FACES, PLACES, SPACES ...

MERCURY CHOPHOUSE

F

or each of the past three years, Mercury Chophouse Arlington has earned a spot on our Readers’ Choice All Star team, which is a notable achievement, considering the restaurant has only been open since the fall of 2017.

The upscale eatery has evolved into one of the area’s “go to” dining destinations for outstanding food and service – and, from its perch on the ninth floor of the Brookhollow Two office building, it provides the best view of Arlington’s Entertainment District found anywhere.

In very short order, Mercury Chophouse has gained a reputation around town (and around all of North Texas, for that matter) as the place to meet for a business lunch or for a dinner to celebrate a special occasion. Because of its vast reserve of fine wines and cocktails and the small-plate selection introduced last year, Mercury Chophouse has drawn in the happy hour crowd, as well.

Mercury Chophouse offers lunch and dinner menus that feature chef-prepared delicacies, from appetizers such as Shrimp Dynamite and filet mignon flatbread to main courses that include the likes of oven-roasted salmon, braised short ribs and prime bone-in ribeye.

Each entree can be complemented with shareable side dishes such as salt-crusted baked potato, creamed corn risotto, burgundy mushrooms, aioli brussels sprouts and grilled asparagus, to name a few.

Mercury Chophouse • 2221 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 910 • 817-381-1157 • mercurychophouse.com

HARRIS COOK, LLP

H

arris Cook, LLP, has built a reputation for professionalism and effectiveness in a wide range of legal matters and now features a highly-skilled team composed of David L. Cook, Patrick L. Dooley, Paul J. Johnson, Larry L. Fowler, Jr., Cynthia L. Hill, Marc A. Stach, Lin Morrisett, Melinda H. Barlow and Wesly C. Maness.

Harris Cook is an AV rated firm, which represents the gold standard in attorney ratings. By increasing the depth of experience and talent across multiple practice areas, Harris Cook can continue to provide dedicated, high-level legal services to its existing clients while creating opportunities for future growth in the areas of Business, Real Estate, Employment, Public Utilities, Probate and Guardianship, Estate Planning, Family Law, and Personal Injury.

“We have a strong foundation in place, and we want to maximize the results we garner for our clients,” says David Cook. “By increasing the depth of experience and talent across our multiple Practice Areas, Harris Cook can provide an outside General Counsel role to our clients throughout North Texas. Through strategic planning and careful execution, the attorneys at Harris Cook, LLP are helping their clients address the challenges they face today while mitigating and preventing problems in their future.”

Harris Cook, LLP Arlington: 1309-A W. Abram St. • 817-817-275-8765 • Mansfield: 309 E. Broad St. • 817-473-3332 • harriscooklaw.com 44

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

PRIMROSE SCHOOLS

P

rimrose Schools’ two Arlington locations are focused on providing premier early education and child care to area families who appreciate a balanced approach of purposeful play and nurturing guidance from teachers.

Sherman and Jaime Hatch have owned Primrose School of Southwest Arlington since 2017 after opening schools in Mansfield and Grand Prairie in 2001 and 2007, respectively. After being introduced to Primrose Schools, the Hatches appreciated “the emphasis they have on education, health, and the well-being of preschool age children,” and thus began a career for them that provides vast opportunities for growth for the children they have served over the past two decades.

Lynn Groff has owned and operated Primrose School of N.E. Green Oaks for 25 years after working in childcare and becoming convinced that there had to be better options for parents looking for a preschool that provided a true educational foundation for children. “What sets our school apart is our focus on the whole child,” Groff says. “We truly believe who children become is as important as what they know. We focus not only on education but on developing the person as a whole.

Social-emotional intelligence is one of the best predictors of future success. Our curriculum weaves character development and life skills into daily experiences so children can learn behavioral and relationship skills.”

Primrose Schools’ purposeful curriculum for infant care and early education has passed through many levels of scrutiny from the company’s expert education panel and esteemed advisory board. The schools’ focus is always on what will best serve the needs of Primrose children and families with an eye on innovation and advocacy for quality early education for all children.

Primrose School of Southwest Arlington • 4621 W. Sublett Road • 817-478-6160 • PrimroseSouthwestArlington.com Primrose School of NE Green Oaks • 1900 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-543-2626 • PrimroseNEGreenOaks.com

M

METHODIST MANSFIELD MEDICAL CENTER

ethodist Mansfield Medical Center, a 262-bed acute care hospital, has been proud to serve the community for more than a decade while it continues to expand to meet patients’ needs. Here are just a few of the hospital’s recent enhancements.

The Breast Center at Methodist Mansfield was recently relocated to the Professional Office Building on the hospital’s 23-acre campus. In this beautiful tranquil facility, a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers offer breast imaging services, women’s health services, bone density scans, and pelvic health therapy — all under one roof.

To enhance care for its tiniest patients, an $8.7 million Neonatal Intensive Care Unit expansion opened in July, providing a neonatal procedure room, lactation center, and newborn clinic. The advanced facility also boasts robotic telemedicine services, the AngelEye camera system for enhanced security, a respiratory therapy work area, and rooms for parents with an adjacent laundry unit and family lounge.

The recently completed 82,000-square-foot, four-story Professional Office Building II on the south campus is home to family medicine physician practices and Texas Oncology – Methodist Cancer Center; an ambulatory surgical center is currently under construction.

In addition to the latest medical advancements, Methodist Mansfield has achieved exceptional patient safety scores. Methodist Mansfield has received the highest rating possible by The Leapfrog Group®.

Methodist Mansfield is part of Dallas-based Methodist Health System, which became the first Texas member of the Mayo Care Clinic Network. This network gives physicians at Methodist Mansfield the opportunity to consult with Mayo Clinic physicians on behalf of their patients.

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center 2700 E. Broad St., Mansfield • 682-242-2000 • methodisthealthsystem.org/methodist-mansfield-medical-center arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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•

WORDS

_ KIDS SAY THE WRITE

DARNDEST THINGS

City Council celebrates winners of the Sheri Capehart Animal Essay contest • By Donna Darovich

“M

Spring Creek Barbeque) and a Kindle Fire. ikey, our pet red-eared slider turtle talks to me in the Promoting responsible pet ownership is the focus of the weirdest way,” fourth grader Lucas Douglas noted in his competition, but it has also been a source of financial knowledge for entry for the 20th annual Sheri Capehart Animal Essay student winners and often their families. contest, as he tackled the assigned topic, “How do you think animals Part of the process has been for the students and their parents communicate with humans?” or guardians to come to the “When I drop 2 pellets of food EECU to receive and deposit down in his tank, he looks at me,” their $100 winnings in a savings he continued. “He doesn’t say a account. Often, Capehart says, the thing, then, at the corner of his Third Grade Division parents had not been in a bank eye, he sees some food, swims to it 1st place: Zoe Wolfe, Little Elementary environment, and many opened a (and) then says to me “food, food, 2nd place: Reagan Capps, Little Elementary checking or savings account for the food, gimme, gimme, gimme!”

3rd place: Cambry Lavigne, Little Elementary first time.

He gets very excited. I used Fourth Grade Division “It is a significant ripple effect,” Temptations treats to test how my 1st place: Lucas Douglas, Homeschooled she says. “We want to get the kids cats talk to me. Most of them follow 2nd place: Abby Tettleton, Wood Elementary to think about what they might do me, but my cat Mary kept running 3rd place: Ryder Whitehead, Mary Moore Elementary after high school.” away playing. The cats mostly The essays were not graded, ignore us, but they do like to meow Fifth Grade Division 1st place: Nicole Wagner, Mary Moore Elementary but judged on the elements of and be petted, but only when they 2nd place: Riley Babb-Corley, Homeschooled “effective writing and responsible want to be.”

3rd place: Margot Shaffer, Mary Moore Elementary pet ownership.”

Other topics dealt with a The contest was sponsored worldwide rule for dealing with Sixth Grade Division

by Spring Creek Barbecue, the animals, how would having their 1st place: Madeleine Moore, Wood Elementary 2nd place: Adler Michener, Wood Elementary Educational Employees Credit own holiday work, and what might 3rd place: Liam Allen, Wood Elementary Union, UT Arlington Trio, the animal shelters look like in 2060?

City of Arlington, and the city’s On the latter, Wood Elementary communications department. sixth grader Liam Allen suggested The City of Arlington Animal Services Center Advisory Board three new inventions, including an injection of “Old B Gone,” which selected finalists for each grade and final judging was done by guest will make an animal that is old for its breed five years younger. He judges Tabatha Knickerbocker and Carole Hoyer and Capehart. calls it “Youthanization.”

The essays are all available to read on the City of Arlington website, First, second and third place winners receive a $100 savings account arlington-tx.gov. ($50 from Educational Employee Credit Union (EECU) and $50 from

THE WINNERS’ CIRCLE

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

47

•

BEHIND THE WHEELS

CLASSIC CAR COLLECTION =

STRESS RELIEF • By Richard Greene

Bob Sherwood’s ‘55 Chevy Bel Air convertible was, is, and always will be a classic Photos: Richard Greene

Dr. Ed Jordan stands with his 1972 El Camino, which has served him and his family well over a number of decades.

Photos: Richard Greene

R

etired orthodontist Dr. Ed Jordan once enjoyed a classic car collection of 28 vehicles, ranging from models all the way back to the early 1900s.

“I got into collecting basically as a stress reliever,” he explains. “After returning home from my office and following dinner with the family, I would spend time working on my cars, often past midnight.

“Then, I would head to the bedroom, lay down and go to sleep immediately and get up the next morning fresh, meet the day with a smile, having gotten rid of every problem that existed the day before.

“It cleared my mind, and when I walked out of the garage, having done what I wanted to do, I was relaxed.”

There’s evidence, reported by physicians Mehmnet Oz and Mike Roizen, that Ed’s experience is confirmed by studies of people caring for things evoking calm

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

The 1972 El Camino gained fans because of its hybrid qualities – not in today’s sense of “hybrid,” but because it could be a car for some and a truck for others. For Dr. Ed Jordan, it’s also a source of respite; while restoring it during the evening hours, he found a great way to relax and forget about the troubles of the day.

arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

49

and providing a sense of purpose, exercise for brain power, and entertainment.

Today he has just this handsome 1972 El Camino that he says he kept from his holdings because it was the most practical of all he once owned.

While he talks fondly of the memories of caring for them all in that garage that grew to more than 4,000 square feet in size, there may be reasons he kept this one beyond just its practicality.

It involved family and the fact that he restored it twice before making it, as he says, “just as I wanted it.”

The family involvement with the El Camino spanned almost a dozen years, during which his wife and kids used the vehicle that some have described as one that couldn’t decide if it was a car or a truck.

Ed insists that it is, in the way he and his family used it, really a truck. “They had to go to horse riding and jumping lessons twice a week, and that was the tow vehicle.”

The restoration journey developed in two phases.

“It came as a GMC coupe utility/pickup for the 1971-77 model years sold by GMC Truck dealers,” he says. “It had an original 350-cubic- inch engine, air-conditioning, power brakes, and power steering.

“I bought a 1975 Caprice four-door hardtop that had a 402 engine and turbo 400 transmission that I swapped into it and restored it as an El Camino Super Sport.”

But, still wanting it to be more, he restored it a second time.

“Then, in the late ‘90s, I put a 454 engine in it to make it as I had originally wanted, including finding the perfect color for it – a Cadillac blue.”

All the while, relieving stress and gaining the relaxation that made him ready to face whatever came his way.

Although the El Camino may be the most-remembered version of a truck built on a station wagon platform, the concept of such a vehicle actually began in the United States in 1920 as a Chevrolet Roadster Utility.

The first generation of the “modern” version was introduced in 1959. By 1968, a third generation like Ed’s was launched with a longer body based on the Chevelle station wagon. The interior was revamped with cloth and vinyl or all-vinyl bench seats and deep-twist carpeting.

El Camino production came to a conclusion with the 1987 model. But, its history includes, according to AutoInfluence.com, a rumor that Mattel’s designer spotted one in the company’s parking lot and reportedly commented, “Those are some hot wheels,” coining the new name for Mattel’s line of toy cars.

Dr. Jordan, now enjoying his retirement years in the mountains of Western North Carolina, reminiscing about his once big collection of classics, including his 1919 Jurden Touring Car, a 1925 Rolls Royce Roadster, a 1930 Packard and a 1956 Corvette.

Today those and the rest of them are in the hands of new owners, but the “practical” El Camino with its family connections and history of multiple restorations, still belongs to Ed. 50

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Dr. Ed Jordan has gotten a lot of miles – both literally and figuratively – out of his 1972 El Camino, which has been noted as a model that can’t decide whether it’s a truck or a car. Because of its versatility and practicality, Ed and his family have used it to taxi the kids to riding lessons, as well as haul other precious cargo. Plus, it’s the lone holdover from a collection that once included 28 vehicles.

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•

UTA TODAY

ONE SMART HOSPITAL

UTA’s revolutionary new facility will train social workers and nurses • By Elizabeth Couch

T

he University of Texas at Arlington is building a new home to teach and train the next generation of social workers and health care professionals. UTA leaders broke ground last month on a $76 million facility that will usher in critical advancements in the field of health care, bringing together the University’s celebrated School of Social Work and the College of Nursing and Health Innovation’s Smart Hospital.

“We are incredibly excited to create this new home for UTA’s social work and nursing students, faculty and staff,” says Teik Lim, UTA’s interim president. “Collaborative work within this building will set the stage for the future of health care and social work. Research shows that when professionals in social work and nursing collaborate, patients have better outcomes.”

The 150,000-square-foot facility will be a state-of-the-art space to serve current and future students. It will also provide room for social work programs to grow and evolve to meet the critical needs of North Texas’ communities through enhanced

collaboration with health care providers and hospitals.

The new building will be a mix of flexible, cutting-edge, technology-enriched learning spaces; teaching and research labs; simulation learning center; student engagement, study and support spaces; and faculty and staff offices.

The facility will create a new Health Sciences Quad on the UTA campus, adjacent to the Science & Engineering Innovation & Research (SEIR) building, Life Science building, and Pickard Hall, home to CONHI. For more than 50 years, UTA’s School of Social Work 52

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

has promoted excellence in research, teaching and service to create educational opportunities for students and their communities, with the goal of achieving a just society. Its Master of Social Work program with specialties offered in Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Aging, Community and Administrative Practice, Children and Families and Health is consistently ranked among the best in the nation.

“Being able to bring everyone together under one roof will allow for more open collaboration between social workers, health care professionals, community organizations and clinical practice,” says Scott Ryan, dean of the School of Social Work. “I think this opportunity will allow us to have more vibrant interactions with our students and will propel us forward in doing innovative social work for the community and continuing being a top program in the nation.”

UTA graduates the most nurses in Texas and has one of the largest nursing programs in the nation. The nursing program was designated one of 17 nationwide to be named a 2020 Center of Excellence by the National League for Nursing, considered the premier organization for nurse faculty and leaders in nursing education.

“This new building will greatly benefit our nursing students and other clinical students by providing them access to greater clinical simulation experiences as a part of their clinical education,” says Elizabeth Merwin, CONHI dean.

“Those students will become the health care workforce for the future, and they will graduate from Image courtesy or UTA UTA knowing they received the finest education to address patient needs. Our innovative faculty have created state-of-the-art clinical simulation education that takes place in the Smart Hospital, which is a hallmark of our nursing program. The new building will further enhance this outstanding differential feature of our nursing program.”

Though intended as a temporary space, the current Smart Hospital has served the college for approximately 13 years. The projected completion date for the new facility is November 2022.

arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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•

LOCAL DWELLINGS

HOME SWEET! HOME

How some creative changes helped this abode attractively travel from 1974 to 2021

W

hen Realtor® Erin Bergin and her husband Jason purchased a Pantego home in foreclosure in 2009, the plan all along was to turn a dated “before” model into an “after” dwelling that their family and friends could enjoy – both aesthetically and practically. As the photos on these two pages show, the mission has been accomplished.

The 2,800-square-foot, four-bedroom dwelling was built in 1974, and many of the original features were showing their age, Erin says.

But she knew the home had potential.

“With my real estate background, I see things I like all the time,” she says. “So we decided to adapt ours to what I had seen and felt would work.”

The redo started modestly enough: some paint and new carpet throughout the home. Ultimately, with the help of Jon Fisher Living and Virtuous Tile Craftsmanship, Erin and Jason gave a face lift to virtually every portion of the house. The original sun room became an office, where both mind and body could be honed – the Bergins 54

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

installed a Peloton there. They opened up the formal living room and updated the look with new floor coverings and 21st century hues throughout. They overhauled a badly outdated kitchen by changing the flooring, appliances, cabinets and counter tops.

The original dining areas featured beautiful window views, and the Bergins made them even more appealing by updating fixtures, the furniture, interior wall colors and by adding all the “right” accessories for each setting.

Bedrooms were transformed from a dark look to something more vibrant. Some attractive and practical furniture highlighted the metamorphosis that took place on the exterior of the home.

And then there was the master bathroom.

“It had a terrible bathroom,” Erin says. “We completely changed the design, and now it looks so much better.”

Erin says that while the Bergin abode is a classic “before/after” triumph, it represents more to her and Jason. “It has kind of been an evolution of love,” she says.

“After” photos: Major Images

arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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•

THE ARTS

THIS IS HOW IT’S DONE

Photos: Levitt Pavilion Arlington

Undaunted by several challenges, the Levitt Pavilion continues to make beautiful music

T

he year 2020 – and the first few months of its successor, for that matter – weren’t on most people’s “Things I Fully Expected” Bingo card. The pandemic crippled many organizations, venues, bars and restaurants with mandated closures or capacity limitations that prevented viable operations. Then came Texas’ Stormageddon.

In her freshman year as executive director of the Levitt Pavilion Arlington, Letatia Teykl was forced into a role she had never anticipated.

“Suddenly, I wasn’t booking artists and planning concerts; I was canceling performances and pushing dates out while our country grappled with the outbreak of COVID,” says Teykl.

“What I quickly realized was being flexible to the changing circumstances was essential in our response.”

Teykl quickly crafted a plan of action to honor commitments to artists and sponsors alike with the blessing of the Levitt Pavilion board and guidance from Arlington’s Fire Chief.

“Our mission is free live music and giving a platform to artists,” says Teykl. “We never lost sight of that.”

With concert after concert canceled by most venues, the Levitt Pavilion Arlington emerged as a leader among the eight Levitt locations nationally (Bethlehem, Pa., Dayton, Ohio, Denver, Los Angeles, Memphis, Tenn., Sioux Falls, S.D. and Westport, Conn.). First, Teykl began booking artists to livestream only; and then as soon as conditions allowed, the Levitt Pavilion staff sectioned off the lawn to provide safe, socially distanced squares for families and friends to listen to live music in open air.

Across the United States, music venues were mostly ignored by initial federal financial assistance. Music venues such as the Levitt Pavilion acted as catalysts for revitalization. NIVA,

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the National Independent Venue Association, is behind the bipartisan Save Our Stages Act. With the passing of the Save Our Stages Act, the Small Business Administration will establish the framework on how to divvy out the $15 billion in relief for grants to help with payroll, rent, utilities and PPE. The permanent closure of music venues and sociable spaces could further damage the tourism and hospitality industries.

“Cultural arts, live music and festivals are an important part of being a successful tourism destination,” says Ron Price, President and CEO of Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau.

According to NIVA, for every $1 spent on a concert, it generates $12 in economic activity.

“A community’s vibrancy is enhanced with the recurring concerts and events produced by music venues such as the Levitt Pavilion,” adds Mayor Jeff Williams.

Reporting on 2020 by the numbers, Teykl is proud of the role the Levitt Pavilion played in the Texas music industry’s ecosystem.

• 63 artist contracts were honored for a total of 48 performances • 28 weeks of music livestreamed • 43 live performances on the stage • Concerts garnered 300,000 views by music lovers in 41 countries • 20 nights with live music on the Levitt stage with audiences on the lawn “2021 will continue to present challenges as evidenced by the unprecedented cold weather and power outages,” Teykl says.

“But the Levitt Pavilion will lead the charge on adapting and reinventing ways to showcase music talent to North Texas.”

For more: levittpavilionarlington.org

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•

MAINLY MANSFIELD

Photos: City of Mansfield

HELP IS AT HAND

Local organizations team to create a website that matches needs to assistance for Mansfield residents during times of disaster

O

n the heels of the devastating winter storm, and with the pandemic still making life difficult for many residents, several organizations have partnered to provide assistance for Mansfield residents and coordinate with those in the community who want to volunteer to help.

Mansfield TX Responds and its new website, mansfieldtxresponds.org, serves as the vehicle for both of those efforts: requesting assistance and responding to calls for volunteers and donations.

The site is a place for residents needing assistance to provide specific information about their situation and their needs.

Meanwhile, anyone wishing to volunteer will find those opportunities on the website. And if you are able to donate to these efforts, you will be able to do so online.

Five founding entities are part of this altruistic endeavor: the City of Mansfield, Mansfield Mission Center, Texas Baptist Men, Mansfield Churches for the City and United Methodist Committee on Relief. The goal of Mansfield TX Responds is to “work with a local, diverse, cross-sector committee to help

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with immediate needs and to form long-term recovery plans.

Together, we assist our neighbors when they need us most.”

The partnership is a way to enhance a platform already in place at Mansfield Mission Center, which works with local organizations, churches and city government to assist residents impacted by disasters.

Following the winter storm that left thousands without power and water, the website represents a timely and helpful means to bring the partners’ – and their volunteers’ – abilities and resources together to respond to those in need. Regular updates note specific needs that can be met, such as water and boxfans to go to residents affected by the storm, and offers volunteer forms to aid helpers in finding areas where their expertise might best be used.

“Mansfield is a community that cares for those in need, especially when they are our neighbors,” a statement on the website reads. “We can meet the needs of those in our community who have been impacted by this disaster. Together we can make a difference. We are #MansfieldStrong.”

CAMPS

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•

PICTURE-PERFECT MOMENTS

Scene

Snapshots of note from places and events in the Arlington/Mansfield/Grand Prairie area

Chief of Police Al Jones takes the oath of office to officially assume his new role in heading the department.

Teaching (and learning) about fire safety

Not your father’s library ...

Photo: Arlington ISD

Arlington ISD fire academy students recently put on assemblies about fire safety for students in kindergarten through third grade at Rankin and Burgin elementaries.

Green Oaks School

It’s official! Al Jones is the new Chief of Police

Photo: City of Arlington

Former Green Oaks School student Veronica Lopez (right) recently joined the school as a teacher’s assistant.

Pantego Christian Academy opens athletic center

Three generations of Jensen racers

Photos: City of Grand Prairie

Grand Prairie Mayor Ron Jensen drove with his grandson Jackson, and then his son Eric joined them in the winner circle during a recent family foray to the track in Cresson.

Photos: Pantego Christian Academy

With the help of Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital, Pantego Christian Academy created the Mitchell Athletic Center, a state-of-the-art facility with indoor batting cages, archery range on indoor turf and a custom weight room.

Arlington Police Department officers do a good deed

Photo: Arlington Public Library

Arlington Water Utilities staffers offered Adopt-A-Plant kits last month at the Southwest Library Branch.

Photos: Prince Lebanese Grill

Planning to have a block party?

Photo: City of Arlington

The City’s Block Party trailer is back in circulation. If you’d like to reserve it for free, visit tinyurl.com/7p5fxrj6

Photos: Arlington Police Photo: CityDepartment of Arlington

Last month, officers from the Arlington Police Department East District teamed up with Seasons of Change, Mission Arlington, Legacy Psalm Ministry, Treasor Nail Studio, ACAPP, AAPOA, ShareFest, and Ben E Keith Company to host a brunch for members of the area’s homeless population. The officers cooked food and provided their guests with supplies and haircuts.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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PHILANTHROPY

TAKING CARE OF THEIR NEIGHBORS

Perry. “The women of this club have a heart for service and are very proud to be able to help our community.”

The objectives of the club are represented by the four sections of the organization’s crest: Science, Fine Arts, Religion, and Education. The AWC’s 400-plus members represent an array of life experiences and passions that are served when they become members by distinct departments.

The departments include Antiques & More, Art and Design, Since 1957, the Arlington Woman’s Club has had a heart for Bible/Joyful Living, Book Review, Bridge, Creative Living, Garden & service for their friends in need in the greater Arlington community Gourmet, Literature Study, Mah Jongg, Night, Performing Arts, Quilts Etc., Theory of Games Old and New, and Travel. or more than six decades, the Arlington Woman’s In essence, club members become part of a sub-group within Club has been dedicated to promoting and developing the non-profit organization that meets monthly at the Arlington the potential of its members through education and Woman’s Club building (1515 W. Abram St.), thus finding benefiting the community through philanthropic ventures. friends with like interests. The entire group meets quarterly.

The fruit of that dedication is represented by some remarkable Collectively, the club has five giving circles that fund numbers. Since 2005, the club has given $336,700 in scholarships scholarships. Each Giving Circle member pledges $50 per year. to graduating seniors in each of the Arlington Independent In addition, the club hosts an annual philanthropic event that School District’s high schools. raises money for charities.

In addition to scholarships to the graduating seniors who However, the philanthropic event was canceled in the past will continue their education at a college or trade school, the year, due to the pandemic.

Woman’s Club of Arlington also presents a scholarship each “You can call me the COVID president,” Perry says. “Because year to a student whose parent/parents are first responders. of the pandemic, we weren’t able to hold our annual event, so Also, since 1997, the AWC has donated/raised a collective this year has been something of a challenge.” $329,314 for various local charities that serve the greater In addition to losing their hallmark event, club members also Arlington community. had to forgo a lot of their service work, such as packaging meals Local entities that have benefited from the club’s members’ for New Day, which provides meals to hungry children in the philanthropic efforts include the Mission Arlington Night AISD schools.

Shelter, Arlington Charities, the Miracle League, Urban While 2020 and the early part of its successor have been Ministries, Meals on Wheels, and New Day, among others. daunting, now that restrictions are easing statewide, Perry In addition to traditional giving, AWC members also hopes the AWC will be able to fully return to its roots: local are involved in community service projects that benefit people helping other local people lead better lives.“These community residents through the likes of Arlington Life women truly enjoy being able to serve others,” she says. “We Shelter, the Open Arms Health Clinic, and Heritage and can’t wait to get back to doing that the way we did before.”

Oakwood nursing homes.

For more: awctx.org “We focus on education and charity,” says President Elouise

F

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ALTRUISM

TO THE RESCUE

Arlington Charities is still serving those in need, despite a series of formidable challenges

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rlington Charities is the largest food pantry in the city.

This month, Penny Rowell, development director for the organization, shares some of the challenges facing the organization as its staff and volunteers maneuver around a pandemic that has left the less fortunate in the community with an even greater need than normal ...

Arlington Charities is a “client choice” pantry. Previously, clients came into our facility to “shop” for the specific grocery items their family needed. In March of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced us to drastically restructure our operations and take on a much larger client base due to school and work shutdowns. We transitioned to a drive-through pantry over the course of a single weekend and limited our once rotating cast of volunteers to a small group of individuals who came every day in order to limit exposure.

Very quickly, our client base more than doubled, and we began taking on new client groups, such as families from the Arlington Independent School District who were displaced from school. We also began to implement new programs, such as frequent drive-through mobile pantries (with National Guard help), utility assistance, and grocery delivery (outlined further in fact sheet).

As we were gearing up for our annual holiday distribution, disaster struck in the form of an EF2 tornado. We lost power for our heating/ air conditioning units, but the most devastating loss was that of our freezing and cooling units, which kept our perishable foods frozen.

Our goal was to get back to serving clients as quickly as possible, and we were lucky to have the help of a very supportive community. For several days, we stored our food in refrigerated trucks and worked in the dark by headlamp until our power came back on.

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The pandemic and tornado were not the only disasters Arlington Charities faced in the last year. Last month’s historic winter storm provided new challenges for many in our community. Arlington Charities was able to provide bottled water to city personnel who were working to get utilities back on and donated food and water to the Arlington Life Shelter. In the weeks following the storm, we provided food to an increased client base and gave out water to many who were still without running water.

One of the things we also experienced were changes to our fundraising. Previously, we hosted a popular annual event, the Help and Hope Celebrity Chef Showcase, where donors enjoyed a threecourse tasting and cooking demonstrations by a popular local chef. This was complemented by wine pairings and an auction. Unfortunately, we had to cancel the event last year due to COVID and limited time to restructure the event in a safe way. We are very excited to bring back the Help and Hope Celebrity Chef Showcase this year as a livestream event with a unique twist. Two local restaurant owners and Food Network Superstars, Randy Ford, from J. Gilligan’s, and Aziz Kobty, from Prince Lebanese Grill, will discuss the stories behind their restaurants, their most famous dishes, and what it was like to be featured on the Food Network - a live “behind the scenes look.”

The event will be moderated by famed novelist, O.K. Carter, and livestreamed from Tony Rutigliano’s Urban Alchemy Coffee and Wine Bar. We will also be raffling off several exciting packages provided by some of Arlington’s favorite restaurants.

It has been a wild year for us, but we experienced a lot of positive changes and are excited to move forward into 2021.

For more: arlingtoncharities.org

Charity Golf

Tournament To Support The Arlington/Mansfield Area Salvation Army and North Texas Youth Education Town (YET)

May 24, 2021

Shady Valley Country Club 1:00 Shotgun Start

The mission of the Salvation Army is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

The Family Life Center is a residential program devoted to helping families avoid homelessness and regain self-sufficiency. The facility is located in the heart of Arlington and houses families in need.

Special Thanks To

The YET provides programs to support children, youth and adults, primarily from low-income families.

YET resources enhance physical, social, educational, psychological and spiritual well-being.

For more information: Lt. Konstantin Maslenikov (410) 422-7117 Or register by using this QR code or by typing this link igfn.us/form/boj_oA

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NEWS & NOTES

Bulletin Board Former Rotary Club scholarship winner is now a member of the organization

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elping students from one of Arlington’s neediest elementary schools go on to college was the vision in 1994 when the Rotary Club of Arlington established its Webb Elementary Scholarship. Last month, one of the recipients became a club member.

Veronica Rodriguez was a sixth grader at Webb Elementary in 1999 and graduated from Bowie High School in 2005. With the assistance of the $750 scholarship, she went on to attend college at Brookhaven Community College in Dallas, and two years later she attended the University of Texas at Dallas and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in International Political Economy. Shortly afterwards, she was awarded the Veronica Rodriguez Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship and attended the University of Chile in Santiago, Chile where she earned a Master’s degree in International Political Trade Policy.

And, now, she is a member of the organization that helped her pave her way.

“The impact the Webb Scholarship gave me goes beyond financial, Rodriguez says.

“It allowed me to further my vision for what I wanted through education and provided additional steppingstones to create a better future with the support of the Rotary community.”

The Webb Scholarship program is available to all Webb 6th graders who go on to graduate high school. The scholarship is funded by donations and has awarded approximately $780,000 to over 600 Webb students. If you would like to make a donation, please visit arlingtonrotary.com or email Peter Scott at peterascott@sbcglobal.net.

Optimist Club sets youth sports dates

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he Optimist Club of Arlington has announced tentative dates for the 2021 youth baseball and football seasons. Baseball Sign Ups will begin on April 1, with the season opener scheduled for the second week of May. The season will last for six weeks, ending in June. Football Sign ups will begin on July, 1. Practices will begin the first week of August, and the season will begin around August 28.

The Optimist Club of Arlington is recruiting members and coaches. If you would like to volunteer to coach, or if you would like more information about youth leagues, visit oca.sportssignup.com/site.

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Arlington Bass Classic will be held on April 10

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rlington Parks and Recreation will host the Eighth Annual Arlington Bass Classic on April 10 at Lake Arlington.

Registration is $100 per team (one or two people) and includes a Big Bass contest. There is a limit of one boat per team. The top six places are paid for the biggest stringer.

Prizes will be in the form of a cash payout. The first place team will also be recognized as Lake Arlington Bass Classic Champions.

The big bass prize is $200 (based on 40 teams) and will be awarded to the team who catches the biggest bass of the event.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 5:00-6:40 a.m.: Registration and check-In at Richard Simpson Park (6300 W. Arkansas Lane) 6:45 a.m.: Pre-tournament meeting 6:55 a.m.: National Anthem 7 a.m.: Tournament begins 2:30 p.m.: Tournament ends 3 p.m.: Weigh-in deadline For more: urlzs.com/ E1FNK

AIMING HIGH: The River Legacy Foundation Clay Shoot fundraiser will be held on May 7

Photo: UTA

UTA Movin’ Mavs win their ninth national basketball title

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he University of Texas at Arlington Movin’ Mavs won their ninth National Wheelchair Basketball Association championship last month, defeating Alabama 66-51 for the title.

UTA almost scored a “double,” but The Lady Movin’ Mavs came one win short, falling 67-53 to Alabama in the women’s national championship game.

For the men, Amit Vigoda, selected as the tournament’s most valuable player, led UTA in the final with 26 points, 16 rebounds and eight assists. Carrington Marendes added 17 points and six assists. Aaron Summerill contributed 13 points and 10 rebounds, plus four assists. Vincent Dallaire, named to the all-tournament team, scored eight points, with five assists and three rebounds.

UTA coach Doug Garner says his team’s mood was “joyous and celebratory” as they headed back to Arlington from Tuscaloosa, Ala., site of the tournament.

“It’s been great seeing all of these differences come together in a team,” Garner said. “We had age differences, philosophical differences and cultural differences. We had to mold together all these parts in just a few tournaments. These players were willing to put in the work.”

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he River Legacy Foundation Clay Shoot fundraiser will be held at 9 a.m. on May 7 at Defender Outdoors Clay Sports Ranch (8270 Aledo Road, Fort Worth).

Chairman Chris Bookout, of Horizon Plumbing LTD, heads up this event to benefit River Legacy Foundation’s environmental education programs at River Legacy Living Science Center, including field trips, wildlife outreach, and Nature School.

Prices for the event are $200 per shooter and $800 per a team of four with sponsorships starting at $1,000. Tournament highlights include free ammo, breakfast and lunch, 100 rounds of clays, a signature gift, raffles, beer tickets, and an award ceremony. Participants can purchase tickets for the gun raffle, which features prizes like the Beretta A400 Xcel and Franchi Instinct L. Tickets for a general raffle can be purchased as well. The raffle will feature prizes like a Tower Shoot for two for the 21-22 season and more.

River Legacy’s Sporting Clay Shoot also offers the opportunity to take part in shooting Firebird targets. With success based on how close a hit is to dead-on-center, Firebird targets are more than just fun; they are the perfect tool to increase accuracy and marksmanship. Participants who can hit these Firebird targets will be entered into a drawing for additional prizes.

“River Legacy’s Sporting Clay Shoot is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a day out at the shooting range while supporting an incredible cause,” says Robert Blake, Clay Shoot Committee member and River Legacy Foundation board president. “River Legacy Foundation’s mission to educate young people on the environment is special to me and my entire family.

My two boys have been involved with River Legacy Foundation programs, camps, and festivals since they were little. River Legacy has given them the opportunity to experience nature, which is something you don’t always get to do in the city.”

To sponsor or sign up a team, contact Shannon Porter at 817-8606752, ext. 119, or via e-mail at shannon@riverlegacy.org. The registration deadline is April 26. Each participant under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. For more: riverlegacy.org

arlingtontoday.com arlingtontoday.com••March April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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•

DINING GUIDE

Keen Cuisine UPSCALE

Cut & Bourbon

Chamas do Brazil • 4606 S. Cooper St. • 817-618-2986 • chamasdobrazil2.tru-m.com Cut & Bourbon • 1600 E. Randol Mill • 682-277-4950 • loewshotels.com/live-by-loews-arlington-texas The Keg • 4001 Arlington Highlands Blvd. • 817-465-3700 • kegsteakhouse.com Mercury Chophouse • 2221 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 910 • 817-381-1157 • mercurychophouse.com Piccolo Mondo • 829 Lamar Blvd. E. • 817-265-9174 • piccolomondo.com restaurant506 at The Sanford House • 506 N. Center St. • 817-801-5541 • restaurant506.com

AMERICAN

Candlelite Inn • 1202 E. Division St. • 817-275-9613 • candleliteinnarlington.com Dino’s Subs • 2221 S. Collins St. • 817-274-1140

Candlelite Inn

frieddaze • 5005 S. Cooper St., Suite 159 • 817-472-6666 • frieddaze.com The Grease Monkey • 200 N. Mesquite St. • 817-665-5454 • greasemonkeyburgers.com J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill • 400 E. Abram St. • 817-274-8561 • jgilligans.com

MEXICAN / TEX-MEX

Cartel Taco Bar • 506 E. Division St., Suite 150 • 817-200-6364 • carteltacobar.com El Arroyo • 5024 S. Cooper St. • 817-468-2557 • elarroyoarlington.com El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill • 2408 W. Abram St. • 817-276-8160 • facebook.com/elgabachotexmex Fuzzy’s Taco Shop • 510 E. Abram St. • 817-265-8226 • 4201 W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-516-8226 1601 E. Debbie Lane, Mansfield • 817-453-1682 • fuzzystacoshop.com

La Isla Restaurant

La Isla Restaurant • 2201 E. Pioneer Pkwy. • 817-459-1498 • laislarestauranttx.com

ITALIAN / PIZZA

Café Sicilia • 7221 Matlock Road • 817-419-2800 • cafesicilia.com Gino’s East • 1350 E. Copeland Road • 817-200-6834 • ginoseast.com/arlington

BARBECUE

David’s Barbecue • 2224 W. Park Row Drive, Suite H • 817- 261-9998

INTERNATIONAL

Prince Lebanese Grill • 502 W. Randol Mill • 817-469-1811• princelebanesegrill.com 68

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

David’s Barbecue

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SPEAKING OF SPORTS

Paying homage to a Texas Ranger hero

The next time you see Elvis Andrus in a picture of this ilk in a game between the Rangers and the Oakland A’s, he and the catcher will have switched uniforms.

I

Photo: seattlepi.com

third baseman and the shortstop. The business of baseball had t is a phrase that has been uttered after nearly every trade in become funny business, as Elvis and Adrian had more fun on the the history of the Major Leagues: “Baseball is a business.” Yet, field than the law allows. For eight seasons, business as usual for rarely has it hit so close to home, rarely has it hit so hard. Maybe these two was a youthful enthusiasm rarely seen before or since. that is because Elvis Andrus plays the game with the passion, the Elvis had his ups and downs during the years that he played enthusiasm and the smile of a child. He plays as if he does not with Adrain, mostly ups. Like his appearance in the 2012 All Star know it’s a business.

Game, the second of his career. And before the start of the 2013 Of course, he does know. In fact, in July of 2007 the business of season he was rewarded with an eight-year, $120 million contract baseball was on full display. The Rangers traded Mark Teixeira to extension.

Atlanta for five up-and-coming prospects. Among them was an There were downs, too, like Game 5 of the ALDS in Toronto in 18-year-old shortstop regarded as the second best prospect in the 2015. Elvis had two errors in a three-error inning, as the Jays came Braves organization. In August of 2007 Elvis joined the Rangers from behind to beat the Rangers. organization and went about the business of proving he was After the game Elvis stood at his locker, took responsibility and worthy of that lofty ranking. proved what a good leader – what a good man – he had become.

By Opening Day of 2009 it was clear that he was. Michael Young His response to that disappointment was the 2016 season when had agreed to move to third base, clearing the way for a guy who he hit over .300 for the first time in his would occupy the shortstop position for career. Then 2017 when he hit 20 home a dozen years. runs, more than twice as many as in any Omar Vizquel was also on the roster in previous season.

2009. The 11-time Gold Glove winner was He hoped to follow up that power signed to show Elvis the ropes. Perhaps John Rhadigan surge in 2018, but on April 11 he was hit Omar was a great teacher, or, maybe, by a pitch that fractured his elbow. He Elvis is just a fast learner. He was the went on the injured list for the first time second youngest player in the American THOUGH he doesn’t wear in his career. He was back in business League that year, and he started 145 games and finished second in balloting the uniform any more, Elvis by mid-June and played in 97 games for Rookie of the Year.

Andrus will go down as one but could never regain the form of the previous two seasons.

In 2010 the Rangers sent a message of our favorite Rangers.

The past two years have been barely to the rest of the American League: OK by his own lofty standards, but “We mean business!” Elvis was already when you look at the last 12 you see something so special. Elvis thriving. He made the All Star Team in his second season, and by was always taking care of business off the field. He was loved by the end of the year he was leading off, as well as playing shortstop. this community and he loved it right back, in the form of charity You might say he was front and center in the Rangers quest to win appearances and autograph signings and smiles and hugs and fun. their first World Series.

The Rangers acquired Elvis to help build a championship team.

The 2011 team was the best in franchise history. Bolstered by the Now they have come full circle, trading him in an attempt to off-season acquisition of Adrian Beltre, Elvis hit .279 that year – a rebuild the organization to a championship level. They traded him full 14 points higher than in 2010. He also had more RBIs, more hits within the division. They know this is risky business. They will see and more steals than in the previous season. The end of that year him a lot, they will face him a lot. They realize that there is a chance was heartbreaking, but with this version of Elvis there was hope for that they will find themselves on the business end of an Elvis even better years to come.

Andrus resurgence.

There was also a friendship developing between the Rangers Sports columnist John Rhadigan is an anchor for the Fox Sports Southwest television network.

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EVENTS, ETC.

Itinerary

A fun way to work out

TIMELESS CONCERTS will present an “Evening in Italy!” concert at 8 p.m. on April 24 at the Arlington Museum of Art (201 W. Main St.). It will feature

The Downtown Arlington Health & Wellness Series will continue at 10 a.m. on April 3 and 10 at Levitt Pavilion Arlington. The sessions also will be livestreamed and will feature popular workouts, such as Zumba, meditation and yoga. levittpavilionarlington.org Photo: levittpavilionarlington.org

music by Italian composers that span centuries, from the early music of Paganini to romantic Resphighi and Italian-American Henry Mancini.

Tenors Don O’Neal LeBlanc and Sergio Cepeda will sing the greatest hits of Puccini and Rossini opera, and a Verdi aria heard in 18 different movies. A post-concert party will include complimentary wine, soft drinks and desserts. COVID precautions will be in place. timelessconcerts.com

THE RIVER LEGACY Living Science Center is registering children for Summer Classes,

Kayaking 101 The Mansfield Parks & Recreation Department will offer Kayaking 101 classes at 10 a.m. on April 10 and 17 at Britton Park.

Participants will learn the basics of kayaking and enjoy a scenic nature paddle. mansfieldtexas.gov/Calendar.aspx Photo: wikipedia.org

Nature School, After School and Homeschool Clubs. River Legacy education programs provide an environment that encourages a child’s inborn sense of wonder and curiosity to flourish. Indoor and outdoor explorations at River Legacy Living Science Center introduce children to the wonderful world around them while they gain skills that will last a lifetime. River Legacy has a new Parent Portal for registration. Visit urlzs.com/1nVYJ, click the “Enroll Now” button and hit “Sign Up” in the top right corner. Fill out your information, and hit the button on the bottom saying “Sign Up” to create your parent portal account and register for classes. riverlegacy.org

Play ball!

This month, your Texas Rangers will open the 2021 home season vs. the Toronto Blue Jays (April 5-8), the San Diego Padres (April 9-11), the Baltimore Orioles (April 16-18), the Los Angeles Angels (April 26-28) and the Boston Red Sox (April 29-May 2). mlb.com/rangers Photo: mlb.com/rangers

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arlington urban ministries presents

boots, chaps & cowboy hats saturday, august 28 doors open 7:00 p.m. coyote drive-in theater 223 NE 4th street fort worth, TX 76164

Arlington Urban Ministries invites you to join us for a big screen debut! It will be an unforgettable evening filled with gourmet food, entertainment and sociallydistanced in-your-car fun!

Learn more at arlingtonubanministries.org!

Arlington Urban Ministries, a faith-based organization, provides emergency assistance for utilities, rent and food for those in crisis in the Arlington community.

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

arlingtontoday.com • April 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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•

FINISH LINE

Academy Award Nominee Paul Raci and Louie studying the script for their next scene.

In the company of the very best

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remarkable success with this movie was achieved.

And, it almost didn’t happen at all.

“We first read the script in 2015,” Amy explains, “and three years later the crew and a highly diverse team of mostly local Big time! deaf actors, both adults and children, had been assembled and we My daughter Amy and her partner Chris Stinson have been began filming based in Boston. making movies together for a long time. All along the way my “Then issues arose with our financiers, and it looked like we wife and I have been enjoying getting to know some behind-thewould have to shut down. So, Chris went to work with new scenes ways the art form has attracted generations of millions investors, and we were able to begin principal photography on since motion picture cameras were invented 130 years ago. time.”

But now our experience has reached a pinnacle as news has Leading actor Riz, when he was cast in the role, didn’t play just come that one of their films has been nominated for an drums nor did he know sign language. After months of diligent Academy Award. work to master both skills, he was ready to turn in a performance Wait … make that SIX Academy Awards! that has earned him additional best actor nominations from The movie, a low-budget independent film, is “Sound of Metal.” the Golden Globes and a score of other industry sources and It’s a story about the drummer in a metal band who has lost his entertainment media . hearing and faces a crisis that puts him into a life-changing world Not to be overshadowed by the human members of the cast, he never imagined.

Amy and Chris’ dog Louie appeared His journey unfolds throughout the in a supporting role. Louie, always a two-hour drama and draws in viewers favorite of any cast, is a veteran and can with a compelling focus that makes be seen in other of their movies. you wonder how you would deal with a Richard Greene “We shot on film,” Amy emphasizes, turning point for which you were totally “which is very costly and highly unprepared to comprehend. unheard of these days, especially on a Dramatic artist Riz Ahmed delivers low-budget independent film.” a break-through performance that “SOUND OF METAL” Chris’ summary of the project earns him a nomination for the Best Our Amy and Chris concludes, “Crazy things happen Performance by an Actor in a Leading are Academy Award when you combine a bunch of amazing Role. filmmakers with one of the best scripts His relationship with the manager Nominees I’ve ever read. We stayed with this of a facility for the deaf played by Paul project through thick and thin over Raci, himself raised by deaf parents many years while multiple cast and financiers came and went and fluent in American Sign Language, is absorbing. Raci’s until we finally ended with the perfect combo.” interpretation of his role earned him a nomination for Best So, what’s next for this pair?, you may ask. Right now they are Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role. producing a movie in New York with Ray Romano, who is making The Academy goes on to recognize the film with nominations his directorial debut and starring in the film. “We’ve selected two for achievements in Best Sound, Best Original Screenplay and new projects to follow later this year and, as always, lots of other Film Editing. ‘maybes’ out there as well.”

With those top-of-industry recognitions, it may be no surprise As Academy Award Nominees, this team will attract all kinds that the Academy has nominated the movie as Best Motion of new opportunities, and we’ll be along as eager parents who Picture of the Year! are among the best of movie fans everywhere, but, now, this is all While always curious about how each of their projects were delightfully personal. put together, I wanted to know more about how Amy and Chris’ hile I’ve been offering my observations on this page on a wide variety of topics every month for almost eight years, this time it’s personal as my pride is showing.

Richard Greene served as Arlington’s mayor from 1987-1997 and currently teaches in UT-Arlington’s graduate program of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs.

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