April 17 issue

This Year’s Cinderella Ball Candidates

Special Feature: Here Come the Brides

Things That Make You Go ‘Yum!’ April 2017

your community • your magazine

Concours d’Elegance of Texas Comes to Arlington arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY Serving Arlington, Mansfield, Kennedale and SW Grand Prairie

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Contents April 2017 • Volume 4 • Issue 4

HIGHLIGHTS 30 My wedding, my story

Photo: Richard Greene

On the Cover

Haley Alexis Barling married Landon Dean Ashby on Feb. 18. Her wedding tale highlights our special section, “Here Come the Brides.”

The Concours d’Elegance of Texas, one of the automotive world’s premier showcases of vintage vehicles, comes to the city on April 21-23 and is featured on page 24. The car pictured on the cover is the Cadillac LaSalle – the company’s lower-cost offering for 1934.

40 Who will wear the glass slipper?

30 DEPARTMENTS Starting Line ... 10 This ‘n Data ... 12 Around Town ... 20 Scene ... 28, 50, 58, 68 Style ... 36 Tennis Tip ... 70 Dining Guide ... 72 Health/Fitness ... 74 Sights/Sounds ... 76 Speaking of Sports ... 78 Itinerary ... 80 Finish Line ... 82

The Cinderella Ball, set for April 15, will reveal the 2017 Miss Cinderella as 20 local teens raise funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington.

42 Home SWEET! Home

Robert Jordan and his RJ Construction team recently renovated the ranch home owned by Drew and Jenny Mize. We think you’ll be impressed with the results.

48 From dream to reality

Mansfield’s South Pointe development is finally taking shape and will give the city an upscale neighborhood like few others.

40 42

52 ART-ist in residence

How Cheryl Mitchell has helped preserve a treasure trove of valuable works at UTA.

56 A real power couple

The Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA will honor Bill and Shari Bowie this month with an award in their name.

60 Things that make you go ‘Yum!’

Here’s information on some local restaurants you need to visit in the near future.

66 Driverless cars?

Arlington has been chosen as one of the testing grounds for the new technology.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

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

Thanks, Arlington

EDITORIAL Editor Yale Youngblood

This month, we celebrate another year of celebrating this great city

F

or those keeping score at home, this is the 41st issue of Arlington Today, not to mention a personal anniversary of sorts. Indeed, on April 1, 2013, I received the call telling me that I would no longer have to stand on the street corner holding a sign that said, “Will write columns for food.” I remember the aftermath of the conversation going something like this: First, I shouted from the top of my lungs in jubilation, which is what you do when you find out you have a job after some time of unemployment. Second, I began to worry from the top of my brain, which is what you do when someone tells you something on April 1. It turns out nobody was joking, thank goodness.

Speaking of gratitude, please allow me this space to share mine for you, the folks of this fine town and region who continue to show me – every day – how fine towns and regions come to be. In fact, I’d like to offer my personal thanks to several of you, starting with the people who made the call to me four years ago.

Judy Rupay and Richard Greene have a storied history with Arlington, as a former city council member and mayor, respectively. But it was their vision for the future of this city that made this Editor magazine possible. They realized Arlington needs to be celebrated Yale Youngblood and they crafted this vehicle to cart the balloons.

As a result, you get to read on a monthly basis testaments to their notion: chronicles of shakers/ movers and bakers/groovers, tales of persistent business and civic leaders who don’t just want to succeed but who want to make a difference, records of victories on the field, court, stage and classroom. Judy and Richard made that possible, and I’d say that even if they weren’t going to edit this column before you read it.

As a result of their prudent dreaming, we’ve been able to keep up with two great mayors, Jeff Williams (Arlington) and David L. Cook (Mansfield), who, like many of their predecessors, truly have the best interests of their cities at heart. We’ve seen the fruits of having an outstanding city manager, Trey Yelverton, who always responds quickly and thoughtfully to emails and voice mails and requests of his time. Always.

Our police chief, Will Johnson, seems to win a different award every month, not because he tries to win awards but because he tries to do his job to the best of his ability. The leaders of our local institutions of learning, UTA president Vistasp Karbhari and Arlington ISD and Mansfield ISD superintendents Dr. Marcelo Cavazos and Dr. Jim Vaszauskas, don’t just pay lip service to success in the classroom. They implement programs and projects that ensure that it will happen.

These are but a handful of the people who devote their lives to making all our lives better – and who, in the process, have provided the guy who gets to chronicle their success with the best job in town. Even if you’re reading this on April 1, that’s no joke.

yale@arlingtontoday.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

and follow us on Twitter

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Contributing Editor Marla Thomas Sports Columnist John Rhadigan Style Editor Tricia Schwartz Website & Social Media Director Sam Thomas Contributing Graphic Artists Susan Darovich, Susan Youngblood Contributing Writers Michele Duskin, Karen Gavis, Bill Lace, Kenneth Perkins, Toni Randle-Cook, Sam Thomas Contributing Photographers Gary Coots, Dwayne Lee, Heather Lee, Bruce Maxwell, Bob Pruitt SALES / CIRCULATION Business Manager Bridget Dean Sales Managers Laura DiStefano, Amy Lively, Andrea Proctor, Debbie Roach, Alice J. Rogers, Tricia Schwartz Distribution Manager Sam Thomas PRODUCTION Production Manager Susan Darovich ARLINGTON TODAY is published monthly. Copyright 2016 Arlington Today, Inc., 1000 Ballpark Way, Suite 308, Arlington, TX 76011. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without permission of the publisher.

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

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

• Phone number: (817) 303-3304

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This ‘n Data Baylor Arlington’s new North Lobby entrance.

Photo courtesy of Baylor Arlington

Making a splash!

Cardboard boat Regatta is set for April 22 at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor THE 28TH ANNUAL River Legacy Cardboard Boat Regatta will be held April 22 at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor.

Starting at 9 a.m., the Cardboard Boat Regatta challenges amateur boat builders – youth and adult – to design, build and navigate boats made entirely of corrugated cardboard. The original vessels then sail (or, alas, sometime sink) in Hurricane Harbor’s Wave Pool as the engineers/sailors compete for a variety of trophies.

Spectators generally have as much fun as the competitors. And why not? In addition to hosting the competition, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor opens select rides, such as the Tornado, Tsunami Surge, Typhoon Twister and Hook’s Lagoon, to give the crowd a chance to “soak in” the revelry.

Here are some notes about the event, proceeds from which go to benefit the River Legacy Foundation: • Boaters must be at least 8 years old.

• Crews can consist of 1 to 10 members.

• Boat entries include Class II mechanical boats, which use muscle-powered

propulsion systems (propellers, paddle wheels, sails) and steering systems (rudders) not made of cardboard.

• A variety of boats will be awarded trophies that include “Fastest Finish,” “Best of Show” and “Rah, Rah,” as well as the “Titanic” award for the boat that experiences the most spectacular sinking.

• Competitors who didn’t or couldn’t find the time to build a boat before race day can sign up on event day for the Class III Build on Site division and can construct a two-person Guppy boat in just two hours. Participants in this category will receive three pieces of cardboard, two rolls of duct tape (only allowed on Build on Site boats), two sheets of plastic, a box cutter, a pencil and a yardstick.

• Race sponsor Harris Packaging offers pre-cut boat kits that are ready to assemble, paint and decorate. Boat kits, which cost $100, can be designed for four to six crew members. A limited supply of 10 kits is available, on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more: (817) 860-6752.

The best medicine ...

A WOMAN CALLED the airline customer-service desk asking if she could take her dog on board a flight she had scheduled for the following day.

“Sure,” the customer service agent said, “as long as you provide your own kennel.” He further explained that the airline had strict rules about dog kennels.

“Like what?” the customer asked.

“It needs to be large enough for the dog to stand up, sit down, turn around, and roll over.”

“You must be kidding,” the woman replied. “I’ll never be able to teach him all of that by tomorrow!”

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

BOSHA expands to better serve its patients BAYLOR ORTHOPEDIC and Spine Hospital at Arlington (Baylor Arlington) recently expanded the hospital at 707 W. Highlander to better accommodate surgery patients and provide a dedicated Pain Management Center.

The expansion adds four new operating rooms for a total of 10 operating rooms. Nine new post-anesthesia care units (PACUs) have been added, including three private, for a total of 21 PACUs for inpatient surgery patients to recover before moving to a hospital room, and for outpatient surgery patients to recover before going home.

The north entrance features a new lobby with a large waiting room that includes an Electronic Tracking board so loved ones can track where the patient is in process. Two new admission bays have been added to speed admission times. The expansion also includes a new, dedicated Pain Management Center, a relocated emergency entrance with dedicated admissions rooms and an ambulance entry, plus added parking along the back of the property near the new North Lobby entrance. The South Lobby will remain the entrance for surgery patients.

The new expansion also provides advanced technologies that allow interfacing with new medical equipment in the education room for education conferences as needed. With these expanded capabilities Baylor Arlington staff can provide secure external patient education, even to patients internationally.

“We are excited to open our expansion that includes accommodations for surgery and non-surgery patients,” says Allan Beck, chief executive officer at Baylor Arlington. “This expansion extends our commitment to provide the best comprehensive outpatient and inpatient treatment of orthopedic and spine disorders in North Texas, and adds a new dedicated center for patients in need of pain management care.”

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This ‘n Data

For the Record

Super foodie Bud Kennedy next up at Arlington on Tap THE STAR-TELEGRAM’S TOP FOODIE WRITER and chief muckraker pundit, legendary columnist Bud Kennedy, will put in an appearance as the chief speaker at Arlington on Tap April 11 at Legal Draft.

WHERE AND WHEN: Legal Draft, 500 E. Division Street, April 11, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

RSVP not required.

“We ran into Kennedy, naturally, at a new Arlington restaurant and asked him to show up at Tap to tell us all about his strangest Tarrant County dining experiences, and he agreed – if we’d buy dessert,” Tap co-founder O.K. Carter says.

“It cost me an extra $5, but he’s worth it. He’s also going to tell us his top dining out picks – good stuff to know.”

“I think he also wanted us to front his beer at Legal Draft, but fortunately we’re a cooperative, collaborative entity,” says Mark Joeckel, the other creator of Arlington on Tap. Kennedy’s career at the Bud Kennedy Star-Telegram began as a sports Photos: Bud Kennedy’s Eat Beats Facebook page stringer while he was still a high school student more than 40 years ago. He’s now the senior columnist at the Star-Telegram and a last man standing survivor in what has become a shrinking industry – a topic he may also touch on a bit, along with some choice political insights at which he excels.

“Don’t forget that he’s also chief muckraker,” Carter says.

Arlington on Tap is hosted by the Arlington Historical Society, Arlington Proud and Arlington Today magazine.

3

Scoops ...

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1. Harry Crosby, a North Texas businessman who recently donated $17,000 to the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA, recently received the organization’s 2017 Communitas Award. The annual award recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence in community service and social responsibility.

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

Photo: Fort Worth Star-Telegram

RAISE YOUR HAND if you attended the city’s first Fourth of July Parade. Hint: This float was one of the entries. Better hint: The initial parade took place in 1966.

THE BUTTERFLY GARDEN on the Fielder House grounds (1616 W. Abram St.) is maintained by the Arlington Organic Garden Club and Master Naturalist, a Texas Naturalist Project of Texas A&M AgriLIFE Extension.

ONE OF THE NATION’S legendary newspaper cartoonists, the late Etta Hulme, hailed from Arlington. She drew cartoons for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram from 1972-2008 and twice (in 1982 and 1998) was named best editorial cartoonist by the National Cartoonist Society.

IN 1967, The University of Texas Arlington recognized the first female graduates from its engineering program: Penny Carlisle and Margaret Kantz.

THERE ARE 21 public basketball courts that are part of the Arlington Parks & Recreation Department. Arlington Today editor Yale Youngblood has yet to dunk on any of them.

YOU’VE ALWAYS HEARD that real estate is a wise investment. The following numbers certainly suggest that to be true. Here are the average home prices in Arlington over the years: 1992 ($90,900), 2002 ($129,800) and 2012 ($151,000). Feel free to check back in 2022 to see if this trend holds.

2. HLRadioTV 106.5FM, the first Vietnamese community FM radio station broadcasting 24/7 in the DFW Metroplex, will be on the air this month. It is one of five radio stations of the HLRadioTV network to serve the Vietnamese communities in the United States. The local station will feature news, sports, music and lifestyle programming.

3. Mansfield ISD’s energy efficiency program was recognized by the Office of the Governor and The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality with its Innovative Operations/Management award. The prestigious award brings attention to the most innovative and effective projects that strive to protect the state’s natural resources.

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This ‘n Data

Nothing but NIT!

UTA men’s basketball team finishes its best season ever with an Elite Eight appearance in the National Invitation Tournament THE 2016-17 University of Texas Arlington Mavericks reeled off 27 wins – including the school’s first two victories in postseason play – en route to their most successful season in school history.

In the process, the Mavs captured the regular season championship of the Sun Belt Conference. They also had two wins in the National Invitation Tournament before finally seeing their stellar season close with an 80-76 loss to California State University Bakersfield in the NIT quarterfinals.

That defeat, and a crushing loss to Texas State in the conference tournament that kept UTA from earning its first NCAA tournament bid, were the only significant setbacks for a team that finished 27-9 overall. The

Lockheed Martin, UTA partner on career center A $1.5 MILLION GIFT from Lockheed Martin will help enhance The University of Texas Arlington’s focused strategic approach to career development and preparation of skilled and accomplished graduates for high demand fields such as engineering. In recognition of the gift, the University recently announced the naming of the Lockheed Martin Career Development Center on the UTA campus.

“The Lockheed Martin name is synonymous with innovation, growth and success in North Texas and beyond, and we are extremely grateful to the company for this generous donation,” says UTA President Vistasp Karbhari. “Lockheed Martin relies on UTA to provide a highly-skilled pool of talented employees, and the renaming of our center marks a significant strengthening of this valuable partnership.”

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

Mavs beat the University of Texas and eventual NCAA tourney teams Mount St. Mary’s and St. Mary’s.

Led by junior forward Kevin Hervey, who averaged 17 points per game, and junior guard Erick Neal, who averaged 10 points and seven assists per game, the Mavs earned the regular season Sun Belt championship with a 14-4 conference mark.

However, they lost in the semifinals of the league tournament to miss a chance to play in the NCAA tourney. Because of the regular season championship, they earned an automatic bid in the NIT, where they beat Brigham Young and Akron before falling to Cal Bakersfield in the quarterfinals.

The final two games were played at College

Junior forward Kevin Hervey was UTA’s leading scorer this season, averaging 17 points per game.

Photo: utamavs.com

Park Center before large and loud crowds, something not lost on Coach Scott Cross.

“This is what I’ve been dreaming about,” Cross said before the Akron game. “Seeing this kind of crowd supporting this team is so exciting. I’m just so proud of what this team has accomplished.”

East Main Street Fest set for May 6 LAST YEAR, when Mark Joeckel began plotting the initial East Main Street Arts Festival, the event’s founder was hoping to draw around 350 people. “We wound up having nearly 3,500 people show up – and they had a great time,” he says. “That pretty much convinced us that we needed to do it again. We are very excited about this year’s event.”

The East Main Street Arts Festival will take place from noon-8 p.m. on May 6, a date that art and music lovers will want to remember. Here’s a location to log, as well: East Main Street, specifically along the corridor fronting Division Brewing, where, during the March Arlington on Tap gathering, Joeckel outlined what’s in store at the fest.

The free event will feature some 60 artist/vendor booths and 20 bands and musicians, who will perform on the Lester’s Backyard Stage. Other sponsors include CBC Advisors DFW, Clarity Creative Group, BizTalkArlington.com, Commercial DFW, Beam Team Design, Arlington Nights, Precision Press, Farrell Animal Hospital and Pet Resort in the Garden.

For more: (682) 248-8424.

Happenings in the Arlington Independent School District • aisd.net

Happenings in the Arlington Independent School District • aisd.net

Seguin High, Bailey Junior High receive “America’s Best Urban Schools” Bronze Award Two Arlington ISD schools – Seguin High School and Bailey Junior High – are among 13 schools nationwide that have received 2017 America’s Best Urban Schools Bronze Awards through the National Center for Urban School Transformation.

Through an application process with rigorous award criteria, Seguin and Bailey were selected for evidence of high achievement, rigorous curricula, excellent instruction, enthusiastic student engagement and a positive culture that supports the

Arlington ISD School Hours

learning of every student.

“Congratulations to these two campuses – the teachers, students, staff, parents and entire community – for this high honor and recognition,” AISD Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos said.

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Around Town

City of kindness

What better way to be a dream city than to be a kind one • By Kenneth Perkins

G

abrielle Palacio was diagnosed with cancer before her first birthday. Mother Shara remembers the heartbreak and hardship of a constant, arduous battle, but mostly the number of people and organizations that stepped up to help them. Neighbors. Co-workers. People they didn’t know. Don’t know.

Will probably never know.

Recently, mom and daughter, now a feisty eight-year-old student at Hill Elementary, helped organize a fundraiser for World Cancer Day. They raised $950 in a week.

That’s actually just one thing they’ve done for others lately, whether it’s for kids or adults with cancer or coming to the aid of an older woman struggling to lift grocery bags into her vehicle.

There’s something about easing burdens that gives the Palacios sheer joy. “It’s about paying it forward,” Palacio says.

“It doesn’t have to be the really big things like raising a lot of money. It’s about being kind, because one thing we can never get enough of is kindness.”

I get it. We are more likely to perform a thoughtful deed when someone does one for us. It’s human nature. Forget the big stuff. Take something as simple as a smile. It’s instinctual to return the gesture when a stranger shoots you a grin. You’re likely to smile back and then do it to someone else.

Soon kindness becomes intentional. Holding the door for someone.

Allowing the guy with one item in the grocery line to go ahead of you.

Buying coffee for the person standing behind you.

It’s a glorious ripple effect.

Which explains Mayor Jeff Williams’ new quest to make Arlington a bastion of altruism and hospitality.

I’ve seen eyes roll over the thought of this new citywide effort, writing it off as one big, gooey, feel-good of nothing.

Can we legislate kindness? Should we?

But like the Palacio family, it’s a process that grows organically and tugs at the goodness in us all.

Look at Anaheim where Mayor Tom Tait has pieced together a Kindness Initiative in a city that struggles with homelessness, drug abuse, gang violence and its share of human trafficking.

A little girl named Natasha put it all in motion. She died in an accident while on a family vacation. Her father would discover a series of drawings and writings on the importance of kindness. As a holistic doctor, he knew firsthand the healing powers of kindness and created a campaign to “Make Kindness Contagious.”

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

He met with Tait (then a city council member), and the latter couldn’t let go. As mayor, he created a number of initiatives such as “Year of Kindness” and “The Million Acts of Kindness” for elementary schoolchildren. Turns out it really was contagious. CEOs banned together to start a mentoring program for youth. A local chef now sends food to kids at the local Boys and Girls Club. A 14-year-old who gained notoriety in a singing competition has raised thousands to create a music program at his elementary school.

Here, a newly formed Community Relations Commission has been charged with the task of changing the way residents interact with one another. This won’t be easy. Commission Chairperson Devan Allen says the 15-person commission is in its infancy, but the idea is to bring residents together, which means figuring out that thorny issue of stitching together diverse communities that, culturally, are quite attached to the comforts of their group’s one-ness. “This is an opportunity where our community and our country can unify – I see kindness as one of those ways,” Allen says.

Photo: candidslice.com The commission meets monthly and is hoping to have something to present to the city council by fall. Williams and Allen are convinced kindness is a way to strengthen the fabric of the city itself. The idea: if holistic medicine can stimulate the body to heal itself, the spreading of kindness can be used to help a city from within.

City of Arlington Community Relations Coordinator Norm Lyons says that, at its most basic, the initiative is about putting kindness on our minds. Thoughts become actions. Actions become lifestyles. That collection of lifestyles can transform a city.

“How great it would be to live in a city where people are not afraid, but are quite willing, to help one another,” says Lyons, who spent 17 years as a community relations exec with the Texas Rangers. “That’s definitely a city I’d want to live in.”

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

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UTA Today

From the Classroom to the Courtroom

T

he Pre-Law Center at The University of Texas at Arlington offers students course planning help, mock trial experience, test prep for the Law School Admission Test, and guidance in applying to law school.

Originally beginning as a partnership between UTA and AT&T, the Pre-Law Center today serves 600 students a year. It is open to all UTA students and addresses the strong interest in social justice on campus.

“Many students come to learn that a knowledge of law can benefit them whether they have a background in liberal arts disciplines, science, business, or engineering,” says Amber White, the center’s director.

The Pre-Law Center offers one-on-one mentoring from practicing law firms in Arlington and the greater DFW area. These mentorships provide students with invaluable real-world experience and

expose them to potential careers as they prepare to make decisions about law school.

“We believe that by giving students the opportunity to explore the practice of law during their undergraduate studies, we are giving them insight into their future,” says Elisabeth Cawthon, interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts. “We’re proud that our students have gone on to top law schools across the country, that we received the 2016 award for Outstanding New Mediation Program, and that two of our students advanced to the national rounds of the American Moot Court Association this year.”

UTA supporters have raised $700,000 toward a planned $2 million endowment to sustain the center’s activities.

Attorneys who are interested in contributing or donating professionally may contact Amber White at amber.white@uta.edu.

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3/15/17 10:13 AM

Cover Story

Concours d’Elegance of Texas comes to ARLINGTON

One of the automotive world’s premier showcases for vintage vehicles will take place April 21-23 and give local residents a chance to see some of the greatest cars and motorcycles ever built • By Richard Greene

Part of the Concours team: John Kruse, Tracy Pierce, Mike Ames, Joy Ames and Brian Greene. They are standing with the only surviving 1934 Cadillac Fleetwood, a previous Pebble Beach Concours winner; a 1954 Buick Skylark that was built for only one year; and a 1940 Lincoln Zephyr Continental Cabriolet conceived by Edsel Ford in 1938.

T

he weekend of April 21 marks the beginning of an annual event that will increasingly focus the national spotlight on Arlington. Building on the first five years of The Concours d’Elegance of Texas that has outgrown its suburban Houston venue, one of the state’s elite vintage automotive showcases is making a move north.

Founder Mike Ames explains, “We have partnered with the City of Arlington and the Arlington Convention and Visitors Bureau to bring the event to the thriving DFW Metroplex.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

“We believe our decision to move to Arlington is a critical step in improving the stature and impact of our event as we strive to become a premier national automobile Concours.”

Dating to the 17th century, when the French aristocracy showed off their horse drawn carriages in Parisian parks, a Concours d’Elegance is a prestigious automotive competition that judges fine automobiles for appearance, originality and uniqueness.

It celebrates the upscale lifestyle that accommodates the passion for collecting, showing or just enjoying great vintage motorcars

About Concours d’Elegance of Texas Here and below are cars and owners featured in the Classic Car section of previous Arlington Today isues. These are the types of automobiles that will be presented at the event. This is Rochelle and David Buice and their 1937 AC Roadster.

Lynne and Bill Downs proudly display their 1937 Rolls Royce.

Ticket information: Tickets for the April 23 event, which runs from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Richard Greene Linear Park, cost $50. To purchase a ticket, visit concoursoftexas.org/tickets.php.

Frequently asked questions: Where do I park? The Arlington Convention Center parking lot (1200 Ballpark Way) or adjacent to AT&T Stadium.

What if it rains? The Concours d’Elegance of Texas will be held on April 23, rain or shine, so please dress accordingly.

What should I wear? Styles range from dressy to resort casual, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I bring pets? Pets are not allowed.

Trisha Evans poses with her 1931 Cadillac.

What should I bring? To fully enjoy your day at the Concours d’Elegance of Texas you might want to bring the following: sunscreen, a hat, handy wipes, a camera and a blanket for picnicking.

Will food be available? Full bars, as well as other refreshments and food, will be available. There is no ATM at the site.

arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

25

The anatomy of a great automotive event

Concours d’Elegance of Texas, set for April 21-23 in Arlington, will feature more than 100 of the world’s best vintage vehicles. The prestigious showcase will give local residents an opportunity to take a first-hand look at evolving innovations in style and technology – and give the team of judges quite a challenge as they select the best of the best from among some of the world’s more historic – and important – motorcars and motorcycles.

and motorcycles. Class award winners will be determined, and from that group of fine motorcars, both a pre- and post-World War II Best of Show will be chosen.

“I’m very excited about Arlington’s opportunity to host the Concours d’Elegance of Texas,” declares Mayor Jeff Williams. “It adds great emphasis to our automotive heritage, and it will be another world-class event for our city on a national stage and a destination for the exhibition of amazing classic cars right here in the middle of the country.”

Activities begin on Friday at Globe Life Park when participants join the escorted Six Flags Over Texas Tour along the historic Bankhead Highway with stops at Arlington’s Top O’Hill Terrace, River Legacy Park, then on to the Fort Worth Stockyards with lunch at Cattlemen’s Steak House, before returning to Six Flags for a big reception.

That afternoon Worldwide Auctioneers will hold the Bobby Monical Collection Auction with every vehicle in the lineup offered entirely without reserve.

Ticket holders to that event will also participate in a cocktail reception at the Arlington Convention Center that evening and get an exclusive preview of the great motorcars lined up for the Texas Classic Auction that will take place on Saturday.

On Saturday evening, there’s the Cowboys and Cars dinner event at the River Legacy Living Science Center benefiting the Concours charities. It is open to all Concours and auction participants and their families. Proceeds are distributed among Make A Wish North Texas, Arlington’s River Legacy Foundation, the Holy Angels Residential Facility and the Next Gen Educational Program.

On Sunday, the event reaches its pinnacle when more than 100 selected vintage automobiles from all over the country will take the field among the Caelum Moor Environmental Sculptures in

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

the Richard Greene Linear Park. Between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., the public can leisurely experience the display of artistic achievement in automobile design among the entrants, see the judging taking place, and witness the climactic awards presentation.

Tickets to the day’s activities are $50 with parking adjacent to AT&T Stadium and arrival to the show field along the park trail emerging from under the Randol Mill Bridge leading into the spectacular setting.

CONCOURS SPONSORS AND PLANNERS foresee the Arlington event growing to the magnitude of the 67-year-old Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California attended by about 35,000 spectators annually.

“And why not?” Ames suggests. “The DFW area is ideally located in the middle of the country and surrounded by the greatest concentration of classic car collectors in the United States.

“We are very grateful for our many benefactors and contributors led by the marquee sponsor of the Concours, the Texas Rangers Baseball Club, that has so generously provided in-game promotions for the event, access to the show field for the vehicles and essential logistical coordination without which we couldn’t make this happen.

“Arlington’s Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Convention Center staff, the city’s parks department, the police and fire departments, and the tireless commitment from Mayor Jeff Williams have all provided the essential elements we need to stage what we know will be an extraordinary experience for everyone who comes to see these amazing classic automobiles.”

There’s lots more information, access to tickets, and photographs and videos to further acquaint everyone at the event’s website: concoursoftexas.org.

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Picture-perfect Moments

Bethany Tinderholt and Jim Ross

Photo: Richard Greene

Joe Bruner, John Dosher and Cheryl Taylor-West

Scene

Snapshots from the Back the Blue Bash hosted by the Arlington Police Foundation and from a family stroll through River Legacy Park

The Arlington Police Honor Guard

Mark Caffey and Norm Lyons

Police Corporal Elise Bowden and Brad Norman 28

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

The Daugette family enjoys the great outdoors: parents Mark and Kelsey and children Bea, Jack and Ellie (and dog Roy)

Come to the Greatest Car Show & Auctions in Texas Friday, April 21, 2017

Saturday, April 22, 2017

Texas Classic Auction Preview & Concours d’Elegance of Texas Cocktail Reception Enjoy cocktails and light fare as we kick off the Concours d’Elegance of Texas along with an exclusive preview of the great motorcars lined up for Saturday’s Texas Classic Auction.

Cowboys & Cars Charity Evening benefiting the Concours d’Elegance of Texas Charities Come and meet fellow automotive enthusiasts an informal and uniquely Texas celebration under the Texas stars. Silent and Live Auction items will be available with proceeds benefiting our charities.

The Monical Collection Auction Offered Entirely Without Reserve Join Worldwide Auctioneers as they present this exceptional no reserve collection Friday afternoon prior to the evening cocktail reception.

The Texas Classic Auction presented by Worldwide Auctioneers An exclusive offering of world-class motorcars will cross the block at Worldwide’s 16th annual The Texas Classic Auction.

Sunday, April 23, 2017

Concours d’Elegance of Texas 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Richard Greene Linear Park 1601 E Randol Mill Road, Arlington, Texas 76011 A world-class gathering of selected vintage motorcars to be juried in a glorious lakeside setting overlooking the Caelum Moor Sculptures in the middle of Arlington’s famous entertainment district. Food trucks, entertainment and an awards celebration culminate three days of automotive excellence.

Buy Your Tickets Online Today!

Use the promo discount “COT50” to get 50% off your Sunday Concours tickets. Promotion ends Monday, April 17.

Driving Tour

Preview Reception

Classic Car Auction

Charities Evening & Silent Auction

Concours d’Elegance benefitting these charities:

ConcoursofTexas.org | 817.695.5254

Concours d’Elegance of Texas

Here Come the Brides

My wedding, MY STORY Haley Barling Ashby Studios (Jacob Guidry and Olivia Strobush) on Feb. 11th. I told Landon in a few letters what my plans were for the pictures. Landon told my best friend Kayla about his plans, and because the photographers from 2:1 Studios are actually friends of ours, she texted them to let them know that Landon was going to propose during the photo shoot.

Landon and I met Jacob and Olivia at River Legacy Park for our pictures. We walked around and took some pictures and Landon had the ring the entire time. As the photo shoot was coming to an end, Jacob asked us if we had any other ideas for poses. That’s when Landon said, “I have an idea” and got down on one knee and proposed. I was almost in tears as Landon asked me to marry him! After he proposed, we took a couple more pictures, and then two of my friends, Hannah and Kayla, surprised me and brought out champagne for us to celebrate with. It was an absolutely amazing day. The best part is that I had a “Welcome Home” party planned for Landon later that evening that actually turned out to be my engagement party.

H

aley Alexis Barling married Landon Dean Ashby on Feb. 18 at Marty Leonard Community Chapel in Fort Worth following a three-year courtship that culminated with not just a unique proposal and wedding, but a fascinating story about love, service and some quick and innovative planning. This month, in our annual featured bridal story, Haley shares that tale.

You had a unique proposal experience. Can you share it?

The proposal was extremely special because Landon used plans that I made to pop the question, and he even got a couple of my friends in on it. While Landon was away at boot camp, I decided that I wanted a “sweetheart shoot” while he was home on his 10-day leave – especially ones with Landon in his uniform. So I set up an appointment with 2:1

You had a brief time between the proposal and the wedding. What was the thinking behind that?

Landon is in the United States Marine Corps. He left for boot camp in San Diego on Nov. 7th, 2016. It was 13 weeks long. During this time, we could only communicate through letters. I received my first letter from Landon about the first week of December, so about three and a half weeks after he left. After the initial letter, I would get about one letter a week. Because of the delay in between letters we did not get to talk about much in detail, but we knew we wanted to be married.

Not being able to talk to one another every day, or even on the phone, led us to have a greater appreciation for one another and our relationship. Seeing each other for the first time after three months of barely any communication is a moment we will always cherish. All Marines receive a 10-day leave between boot camp and reporting back to San

There was another recent local wedding with a unique story behind it.

Read all about it in Richard Greene’s column, “The Finish Line,” on page 82.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

Diego for additional training. Landon was also lucky enough to get recruiters’ assistance, giving him the ability to stay home an extra week and help out at local high schools before returning back to training. This extra week is really what made our wedding even a possibility. We knew we wanted to get married before he left again, and, instead of going to the justice of the peace, we decided to have a full-blown wedding ceremony.

We decided that being married before he left was the best decision rather than waiting because in order for me to live with him once he gets stationed somewhere, I must be on his orders. To be on his orders, we had to get married as soon as possible. Military is fast-paced, and you have to learn to roll with the punches, and we are quickly figuring that out. So we got engaged on February 11th and got married a week later, on February 18th. We had exactly six days to plan Mr. and Mrs. Ashby a wedding! We started planning the wedding on that following Monday, the 13th.

How did you get it all planned in such a short span?

It’s honestly amazing that we were able to plan this wedding in a week. I would have never been able to do it without lots of help. I think we used up every favor we had.

First, my parents (Jason and Trisha Barling) are No. 1 on that long list of people that helped out and made this possible. My mom is a rock star. We got up Monday morning (the 13th) and got started. The very first thing we did was call Marty Leonard Church and ask if they were available for that next Saturday. By the grace of God, there was a cancellation that Saturday night.

So my mom and I went to the chapel and booked it immediately. So, venue, check.

The next order of business was my wedding dress. This is honestly the part that stressed me out the most. We were referred to Bliss Boutique in Ft. Worth. I fell in love with the very first dress I put on. I was on Cloud Nine at this point because everything was happening so perfectly. They even had that dress in a smaller size that fit me. Throughout the entirety of the week, my parents were the bomb. My mom was always three steps ahead of me on absolutely everything, and my dad called me every day to make sure everything was going the way I wanted it to go. I owe them so much more than a thank you because they did so much that week. My mom ran every errand possible and took care of everything. She took my vision and turned into a reality.

Unfortunately, my siblings are all at college and could not spend the week with me helping out, but they all were super encouraging all week and helped me anytime I was stressed out. My sister, Ashley Barling, even picked fake rose petals off all of the flowers I bought for the flower girls because we couldn’t find any petals in the colors I wanted.

Jacob Guidry at Pictures: 2:1 Studios and I went to Martin High School together, so when I need pictures for anything, they are my go to. They do a fantastic job every time I work with them. You could actually play your own music at the chapel, so my uncle, Nathan Barling, put together a playlist of songs that Landon and I picked out and played them during the ceremony. My aunt, Jennifer MacMahon, helped with decorations and programs for the wedding.

I got my bridesmaids dresses from a boutique here in Arlington, Jazzy Jems. My mom actually bought those while I was working. She walked in, told them what we needed and walked out with three gorgeous dresses AND a dress for me to wear after the ceremony. H.E. Cannon supplied flowers. The florist told me that they never usually meet with brides the week of Valentine’s Day, but because my dad is such a loyal customer there, they said they would take care of me.

What was the wedding like?

Because our wedding was on short notice, we didn’t have many bridesmaids or groomsmen. We made it strictly our siblings. Maids of Honor were Ashley Barling and Misty Kirkland. The bridesmaid was Aubrey Ashby. Logan Ashby was best man, and Michael Barling was groomsman. Ushers were Cody Lancelot and Ammar Elhamad, and flower girls were Jenna Barling and Ryan Mosley.

There was a theme: Navy Blue and Yellow. Landon wore his Dress Blues for the ceremony, so we coordinated around that.

Overall, there were probably about 150-175 people in attendance. We were overwhelmed with the amount of love we felt as we saw the chapel fill up. We had friends and family come from all over. It was incredibly humbling.

What were you feeling as you reached that special moment when you were officially becoming husband and wife?

The whole experience felt surreal. As I was walking down the aisle, I remember thinking, “Wow. I am marrying my best friend.” My heart was filled with excitement and joy as I reached the altar and said my vows. Landon adds: “Every chance I get to see you, I feel so lucky and happy, but on our wedding day, I was the happiest I have ever been. Not only was I happy, but I was also proud. I know it sounds weird, but even going through three months of boot camp and earning the title of United States Marine does not come close to the way I felt seeing you walk down the aisle. I felt 10 feet tall when it set in that you would be my partner for life. I’m so proud to have you on my side, as well knowing I have your support I am confident that I will be able to tackle whatever.”

arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

31

Here Come the Brides

6 ways to enhance a wedding 2

Photo: tlh.co.uk

Photo: yelp.com

1

Who’s up for some Chef Mex?

RIO MAMBO, located at 6407 S. Cooper St., offers a “South of the Border” twist to wedding planning, whether the need is a great locale for a rehearsal dinner or catering services for a large reception following the big event.

The restaurant doesn’t serve conventional Tex Mex cuisine, says owner Brent Johnson.

“Recipes are important, and while there are a vast number of translations to basic Tex Mex, ultimately the real secret lies in the ingredients,” he says. “Our commitment to quality meats and produce, aged cheese and fresh herbs and spices will provide you with the difference we call ‘Chef Mex.’” If you reserve a special area in the restaurant for a rehearsal dinner, Johnson and his staff offer standard menu options for groups smaller than 25 people. For larger groups, Rio Mambo offers a customized menu with a choice of up to four entrees, chips and salsa, and non alcoholic beverages. Visit riomambo.com

Take yourself (and others) to the spa WEDDING PLANNING, by nature, can be stressful. Spa treatments, by nature, can go a long way toward relieving stress. The Sanford Spa & Salon offers a variety of spa treatments that are wedding-specific – including gift packages for members of the wedding party. Providing spa visits to the members of your wedding party is an excellent way to say “Thanks” to the special people involved in the ceremony.

Sanford Spa & Salon options run the gamut, from the “Fly Me to the Moon” package, which features a

Gifts, gifts and (yea, verily) even more gifts

3

Photo: Gracie Lane

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

90-minute massage, European facial, spa manicure and pedicure, shampoo and style, make-up application, and a delicious spa lunch, to less-expensive but still satisfying treatments that will leave the bride refreshed and ready for her big day.

The facility even looks out for the groom and his wedding principals, as well. The “Puttin’ on the Ritz” package features a haircut, hand massage, and hot towel treatment, while the “In the Cool of the Evening” package features a 90-minute massage, spa pedicure and a haircut. Visit sanfordspa.com

FOR THE BRIDE OR GROOM who want to get something special for the members of the wedding party, there are few retail establishments that are better equipped to meet the need than Gracie Lane (4720 S. Cooper St.).

For that matter, Gracie Lane is also the go-to source for wedding attendees searching for giftware for the lucky couple. With more than 100 boutiques specializing in home decór, clothing, jewelry, kitchen accessories, gardening equipment/apparel, candles/fragrances, photography, cards and more, Gracie Lane is a veritable gift-buying mecca.

Visit: gracielanecollection.com

World Class Service with a Personal Touch

l Best OUTDOOR wedding and reception venue in North Texas for up to 200 guests l Intimate indoor weddings for up to 50 guests l Catering by our award winning culinary team of restaurant506 l Exquisite accommodations for VIP guests l Bride and Bridal party spa and salon services l Dining options can include seated and plated, buffet, or cocktail appetizer option Ask about our excellent wine selections, bar packages, tenting options, rehearsal dinners, private parties, and wedding showers.

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Here Come the Brides

4

THE ARLINGTON PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT offers a wide range of rentable outdoor venues for weddings, receptions and pre-wedding parties. But one of its premier wedding venues is something of a well-kept secret – at least in the fact that many don’t realize it’s a Parks & Rec facility.

Ventana Grille inside the clubhouse of Tierra Verde Golf Club offers fine dining, alluring atmosphere and outstanding service – plus something else that’s very special.

Ventana means “window” in Spanish, and the windows of Ventana Grille provide a spectacular view of Tierra Verde. Wedding parties can also dine outside on the patio and enjoy glimpses of golf and nature coming together in harmony.

The restaurant offers catering, as well as private party and reception service for groups of practically any size. And, as you can see from the photo to the left, the cuisine scores a hole in one every time. Visit: arlingtongolf.com/ventana_grille

Photo: Ventana Grille

Cakes that look as good as they taste – and they taste great!

WHEN YOU CHOOSE a caterer for your wedding festivities, don’t forget that dessert is a food group, too. While most weddings feature traditional bride and groom cakes, most rehearsal dinners, receptions and pre-wedding gatherings need something sweet to cap a very sweet occasion.

Nothing Bundt Cakes has an Arlington location (5001 S. Cooper Street, Suite 111) that specializes in exqusite desserts that look great and taste even better.

The bakery has special offerings for wedding events, such as the “Wedding Ring” cake (pictured right, above) and the “Engagement Ring” cake. Plus, it can craft a cake (or several), as well as Bundlets and Bundtini’s (both of these are also pictured to the right) that will put a tasty finishing touch to any wedding-related gathering.

Visit: nothingbundtcakes.com 34

A one-course meal

5

6

Photo: The Sheraton Arlington Hotel

‘V’ is for (very nice) venue

Photos: Nothing Bundt Cakes

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

THE BRIDE AND GROOM will remember – for days to come – all the details of the wedding, from the ceremony proper to what went on in the planning stages and all the fun that ensued at the reception following the ceremony. To ensure that the latter part is special to everyone involved, it is important to select a spot for “after wedding” festivities that is “practically” perfect.

By that, we mean that it needs to be big enough to accommodate the crowd (whatever size that is) and elegant enough to leave an impression on all wedding attendees. Plus, its staff should be ready/willing/able to do set-up, service and break-down, all in manners that complement the wedding experience rather than distracting from it.

The Sheraton Arlington Hotel’s Plaza (pictured here) is an excellent example of a venue that meets all the criteria for success. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering for 10 or need room for 600 people to toast, cheer and share your special day, the Sheraton staff helps banish wedding planning stress with a catering team that designs special wedding packages and customized menus. Visit sheratonarlingtontotel.com

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arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Great Wedding Looks

Bride - Breathtaking A-line features lace appliqués, shimmering embroidery, and scalloped hem accented with pearls and beading.

Groom- The trim and tapered fit of the Ultra Slim Fit Navy Sterling Wedding Suit fits close to the body for an updated look.

Bridesmaid - Romantic, boho-inspired bridesmaid dress with a criss-cross ruched bodice Gowns from Classy Concepts Bridal & Formal • Tuxedo from Ava’s Bridal Couture • Ring from Troy Vinson Jewelers • Fabulous bridal boots from Lane Boots

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Ocone’s Bridal has a new name, fresh look but same great location of 26 years!

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

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Great Wedding Looks

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Bride - Beaded lace appliqués & crosshatching, illusion halter over V-neck, illusion open back.

Groom - Contemporary style with a trim and tapered fit, one of our slimmest fitting garments.

Bridesmaid - High neckline with sheath silhouette, unique draping, flirty keyhole back detail Gowns from Ava’s Bridal Couture • Tuxedo from Classy Concepts Bridal & Formal Ring available from Troy Vinson Jewelers

600 W Mayfield Rd • Arlington (Matlock & Mayfield Intersection) arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Great Wedding Looks

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2538 W. Pioneer Pkwy.

(Facing Bowen Rd.) Arlington, Tx 76013 jazzyjems.com • 817- 548-5955 38

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

Bride - Tulle fit-and-flare, shimmering lace appliqués and bead detailing over Inessa jersey.

Groom - Classic tux with updated fit. The Manhattan is tailored in luxurious Super 130's wool.

Bridesmaid - A cross-strap neckline with a soft English net overlay Gowns from Ava’s Bridal Couture • Tuxedo from Classy Concepts Bridal & Formal Ring from Troy Vinson Jewelers

Great Wedding Looks

Bride - Fit-and-flare features cascades of lace appliqués, a tulle skirt, and a sweetheart neckline, with a V-back and sheer off-the-shoulder sleeves Groom - The Ultra Slim Berkeley offers a modern approach to a classic tuxedo style • Bridesmaid - Elegant, classy cowl back, blending glamour with a bit of Hollywood flair Gowns from Classy Concept Bridal & Formal • Tuxedo from Ava’s Bridal Couture • Ring from Troy Vinson Jewelers • Fabulous bridal boots from Lane Boots

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www.riomambo.com arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Worthy Causes

Who will wear the GLASS SLIPPER?

The Cinderella Ball, set for April 15, will reveal the 2017 Miss Cinderella as 20 local teens raise funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington

T

he 2017 Cinderella Ball, presented by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington’s Ladies’ Auxiliary, will be held at 6:30 p.m. on April 15 at the Arlington Convention Center. There are 20 Cinderella candidates vying for the title of Miss Cinderella (pictured on the next page). The honor will be given to the girl who raised the most money during a seven-week campaign to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington.

Last year’s Miss Cinderella, Grace Elisabeth Burnett, raised $254,754.54 for the charity, and the candidates as a group brought in a total of $801,002.37.

Photo courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington Ladies’ Auxiliary

The 2017 candidates for Miss Cinderella pose for a group picture in anticipation of this year’s Cinderella Charity Ball. All of the girls are either sophomores or juniors in high school and each attends school within the city limits or resides in the city limits.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

Photos: Munson-Cox Portrait Design

Grace Elisabeth Burnett, Miss Cinderella 2016

The 2017 event is the 57th Cinderella Ball. As of the 2016 results, the total raised by all the balls to date is more than $10 million.

The ball is planned by the Ladies’ Auxiliary, which has some 70 members and is open to any women in the community. The only expenses incurred are those to put on the ball. There are no Auxiliary salaries, as it is a completely volunteer, non-profit organization. The goal of the Cinderella Ball is to raise as much money as possible for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington by reaching out to the community. The funds also provide a $2,000 scholarship for future educational needs of the Boys & Girls Clubs’ Youths of the Year.

Each fall, the previous year’s candidates give out applications to two young women they feel would be good nominees for the current year. An article is also published in the newspaper so that the general public knows that applications may be picked up at the Boys & Girls Clubs, and anyone can nominate a candidate.

There is no limit to the number of girls that may apply, but the maximum the Ladies’ Auxiliary will select is 20. The only requirements applicants must meet are: (1.) They must be a sophomore or junior in high school. (2.) They must attend school within the Arlington city limits or reside within the Arlington city limits. The applications must be filled out completely with a listing of the girl’s school, community, and church activities and honors, as well as academic standing. Once selected as a candidate, each girl begins her fund-raising quest by soliciting donations, with the most successful candidate earning the title of Miss Cinderella.

The 2017 Cinderella Ball will feature former Arlington City Council member Jimmy Bennett as Master of Ceremonies. In addition to crowning a new Miss Cinderella, the ball will honor three scholarship winners and the Carol Zimmer Award winner, as well as recognize the four Miss Cinderella runners-up.

Olivia Arnott

Taryn Cates

Madison Cinquepalmi

Abigail Clay

Channy Cornell

Sarah Crawford

Tatum Fife

Hannah Harris

Blair Herrod

Peyton Jones

Lauren Julius

Kennedy Levy

Amanda McQuitty

Hannah Porter

Carmen Regina

Carrigan Slover

Madilyn Snyder

Catherine Westerlage

Mandy Williams

Lauren Worth

The Ladies’ Auxiliary of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington extends a special “thank you” to Baylor Orthopedic Spine Hospital in Arlington. arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

41

Local Homes

Home SWEET! Home Here’s how RJ Construction recently renovated the West Arlington house owned by Drew and Jenny Mize

W

This living area (pictured here) and the entryway (below) show how RJ Construction helped Drew and Jenny Mize achieve an open look with their home.

Photos: RJ Construction

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

hen Drew and Jenny Mize decided last fall to have their West Arlington home renovated to enhance the kitchen and create more open space elsewhere, they didn’t have to think long or hard about whom they would call to complete the project.

Three years earlier, Robert Jordan and his RJ Construction team had upgraded the upper portion of the home, adding a second story and a full bath where an attic had been. The Mizes were so impressed with the quality of the work that they gave Jordan another call and pointed him toward the kitchen.

“Robert has an amazing eye for what could be,” Drew says.

“With both projects he came in with design ideas that we were shy to warm up to at first, but after working with him on 3D renderings, we were sold on his ideas.”

For both projects, Jordan provided a full-project proposal, and along the way, says Drew, if something wasn’t right Jordan made it right. “No project goes perfectly smooth, and there are, of course, some issues along the way,” Drew says. “But never once did Robert say ‘no,’ and he was fair with us on every decision.

Robert has a passion for satisfaction and seeing his ideas becoming reality, and that shows in how he approaches his projects and how he treated us through the process. His entire team is great, with an intent to please.”

As a result, the Mizes – Drew (a software engineer), Jenny (“CEO of the home,” Drew jokes) and teenage daughters Ellie and Mallie – were able to see the house they had loved for nearly two decades become even more special.

Drew and Jenny both grew up in Arlington and went to Arlington High School, but after they were married they moved to the

A redo of the kitchen was the primary focus of the most-recent renovation job at the home of Drew and Jenny Mize. Here are some photos that show how RJ Construction turned what Jenny called “a small galley kitchen” into a kitchen that is both practical and beautiful.

arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

43

“I don't let hearing loss keep me from being my best, most

Here are photographs of the 2013 renovation of the Mize home. RJ Construction added a second floor with plenty of space for the Mizes’ children, Ellie and Mallie. A full bath complete with a stunning wood vanity was part of the project.

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Fairmount historical area in Fort Worth and spent several years restoring a two-bedroom bungalow home built in 1925. “But after our first daughter was born we immediately knew it was time for more space,” Drew says. “We ultimately ended up back in Arlington, closer to our roots.”

They bought their current home in 2001, drawn by the fact that Dunn elementary School was less than a block away and enamored with the neighborhood in general. Over time, as the family grew, so did the need for more space, so they contracted with Jordan in 2013 for the first renovation project.

“We considered moving, but after evaluating the market and looking at some options, we knew our money would be better invested in our current home,” Drew says. “We’ve continued to do small improvements since we purchased the home, but knew making big changes of this magnitude would mean we were in it for the long haul.”

The 2013 project was spurred by a desire to provide a large space for their children and their friends to congregate. “We also saw it as space that could ultimately be used as a guest area or additional large bedroom down the road to leverage the investment,” Drew says.

They added a second story room (with full bath) that was used primarily as a large media room and congregating area for the kids and their friends.

“We had our den on the main floor, but we wanted a place that the kids and their friends would want to come to and not have to sit right next to ‘the parents.’ We sacrificed a small fourth motherin-law bedroom off of the kitchen for the large staircase, which also provided us with a new large kitchen pantry.”

As part of the project RJ Construction renovated and reconfigured the downstairs bath, and retiled the kitchen. The bedroom that was removed was used as a playroom for the then-young kids.

“The renovated space is a reflection of how our kids have grown and changed in the last 16 years,” Drew says.”

The more recent project that focused primarily on the kitchen is something Jenny and Drew had often talked about, and they finally decided to take the plunge last fall.

“It doesn’t matter how hard we tried, when we had guests over everyone ended up in the small galley kitchen, the large den was a desert, and we were ready for a large open concept area,” Jenny says. “Our goal with the project was to be able to flip through any mainstream kitchens project when we were finished, and be able to say ‘we got that.’”

The full redo of the kitchen included removing the wall between the den and galley kitchen. “We’ve always wanted an open-concept kitchen that flowed into the den, with a modern look and feel, with a huge island large enough to sit at least six and still have tons of working space,” Drew says. “We wanted a ‘wow’ space, a place where we could cook, socialize and enjoy since we spent so much time in that part of the house.”

As part of the project, the wall between the den and kitchen was removed, and the entire space was reconfigured or altered

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These photos depict other aspects of the renovation projects: the staircase leading to the new upstairs portion, an open-space kitchen and living area and a book nook/ private space that all the family members can enjoy.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

drastically. Items removed included the popcorn ceiling from the dining room and entry and original paneling and picture frame trim in the den. Much of the flooring was replaced, as well.

“We deleted a doorway into the dining room and replaced the wood floor with the same tile that went into the kitchen so the entire side of the house would flow,” Jenny says. “Our planning worked out in that we really did not have to touch or redo any of the work from the 2013 second-floor project – it all tied together perfectly.”

After all the renovations, the Mizes have an upstairs that provides an instant option for the kids and friends to retreat for movies, to eat, or, to just be kids. “They usually walk in the door and head straight for the staircase,” Jenny says.

The upstairs area is also used as a getaway space for someone who wants to watch something different than the rest of the family, do arts and crafts, or read a book. It’s also Drew’s man-cave or a quiet place anyone can enjoy. Plus, there’s the added bonus in that it provides a large space with a full bathroom for overnight guests.

Meanwhile, Drew notes, the new downstairs renovation gives the family something they had long wanted. “The kitchen/den is just that, now one open concept space where we don’t have to either cram everyone into a galley kitchen or split the herd,” he says. “We can cook, socialize, watch TV, all from one great area.”

Each family member has a favorite part of the new “Mize Manor.” Drew likes sitting at the corner of the kitchen island. “It’s the one place where I can talk with others while cooking is happening, and look across the room and see the results of the entire process,” he says. ”It’s my happy corner.”

Jenny loves all of the counter space in the kitchen. “My youngest daughter likes to cook/bake,” she says, “and there is tons of space for us to be in there together – even with the two dogs.”

Ellie favors upstairs, “so I can be with friends and away from the rest of the family.” Mallie agrees. “My favorite part is the upstairs, so I can watch whatever I want,” she says. “I also like the kitchen because I like to make Food Network recipes.”

So it’s a consensus: The evolutionary renovation has given all the Mizes a home they enjoy – and one that’s even better than the house that caught their fancy some 16 years ago.

“We love it even more,” Drew says. “When we walked in the house the first time in 2001, we knew it was the one. It had great bones, we really liked the design, and were attracted to the neighborhood. This transformation has made the house not only more functional for our family, but we love how it looks, feels and flows. We have a home that is warm and comfortable with just us, works great for extended family and friends for holiday gatherings and such, and the changes make it plenty big for hosting larger groups.”

Jordan, the builder, shares the Mize’s enthusiasm and takes pride in what he and his team accomplished. “The house,” he says, “has transformed into a masterpiece for the Mize family and a place that they will call their forever home.”

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47

Neighborhoods

South Pointe sits on 870 acres near Lone Star Road and 287 at the southern tip of Mansfield near State Highway 360. When fully developed, the site will contain about 1,400 upscale homes, as well as four lakes and four schools within the Mansfield school district.

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Mansfield’s South Pointe development is finally taking shape and will give the city a new, upscale neighborhood like few others • By Karen Gavis

D

riving along South Pointe’s mile-long main corridor, David Branch says he feels like the Mansfield development has bought nearly every tree in Texas.

Some, the North Rock Real Estate land development director says, were even trucked in from Oklahoma.

“These are very mature trees,” he says of the triumph elms, a handpicked species located throughout the upscale community. “They’re beautiful. They grow nice, and they’re very hardy. They were actually designed for the Texas climate.”

The trees also lend an established look to the development, he says, which is laying its own roots within the city.

South Pointe sits on 870 acres near Lone Star Road and 287 at the southern tip of Mansfield near State Highway 360. When fully developed, the site will contain about 1,400 homes in the near$300,000-to-$1 million price range, as well as four lakes and four schools within the Mansfield school district, which Branch says is a big draw.

The development was envisioned a decade ago, but the recession slowed things down. Now, an improved economy, a booming North Texas housing market and the expansion of General Motors are spurring growth, Branch says. The subdivision, which broke ground last year, will soon begin its second phase.

“We felt Mansfield offered a good opportunity for growth,” he says. “We felt we could come and offer a community in Mansfield that offered great value and affordability compared to what’s going on in the northern suburbs.”

South Pointe is attracting local buyers, as well as those moving into the area for employment, Branch notes. And the expansion of SH 360 will make commuting to local job centers and DFW airport easier.

While many potential homebuyers look for houses within the Mansfield ISD, John Houston Homes sales manager Lee Degrande 48

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

Photo: Karen Gavis

says empty nesters wanting to retain property values look for houses in Mansfield, as well. Degrande’s employer offers 13 different floor plans, and she says the area’s location, upcoming schools, and on-site shopping are major factors in home buying decisions.

“In terms of looking for a house today, I think what people are looking for is light, bright, modern and customizable … like open floors plans,” she says.

Some of the development’s other builders include Plantation, Rasor, Mansfield Custom Homes, Steve Boyd and David Weekley.

Homes range from 2,000 square feet to about 5,500 square feet, according to Branch, who notes that there are several high-end homes in an exclusive, gated area overlooking a lake.

“This [lake] is kind of unique in the fact that if you look down on an aerial, this is like an aqua,” he says. “These houses will all face this area.”

Another nearby pond and fishing pier will have a surrounding walking path, and more trails and park areas are planned throughout the community. Branch says plans are also in the works for a 450-unit luxury apartment complex, which will be located in Ellis County and part of the Midlothian school system; a 4,000-foot, resort-style amenity center and pool activity area; and a 110-acre commercial area with shopping centers and restaurants. Branch expects SH 360 will bring in the traffic.

“South Pointe had been conversation for so many years,” Branch says. “Now, it’s a reality.”

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Snapshots from the recent Ribbon Cutting ceremony for the Center Street Bridge over Interstate Highway 20

Mindy Carmichael, Bruce Payne and City Council Member Victoria Farrar-Myers

Early Voting: April 24 – May 2, 2017

Renee MacQuaid and Jay Warren 50

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

Local leaders participate in the official ribbon cutting ceremony.

The Mansfield ISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously to call a $275 million bond election to be held on May 6, 2017.

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arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

51

The Art Scene

ART-ist in residence Cheryl Mitchell, an art collections specialist and art historican lecturer, has helped preserve a treasure trove of valuable works at UTA • By O.K. Carter

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

W

ith an African Fon king Cameroon sculpture to her right, an exotic collection of Guatemalan “devil” masks to her left and in full view of a Tom Piccolo sculpture that seems to be quizzically overseeing everyone in the room, University of Texas Arlington collections specialist and art historian lecturer Cheryl Mitchell clearly resides in her comfort zone.

It’s no museum, but rather the Visual Resource Commons – a small meeting and research area – within the Fine Arts Building.

Add up the value of just the art in this room alone and it would likely require a starting bid of a quarter million dollars, likely more. That’s if it could be purchased, which it cannot.

But as art at UTA goes, it represents the proverbial drop in the bucket. All of the works in view are, however, on Mitchell’s every-growing inventory list of university art – paintings, sculptures, public art, ceramics, glass, metal, wood and photography.

For Mitchell, the collections specialist title translates to becoming a finder of valuable and unique art scattered across the sprawling 420-acre campus. “The university had been around since 1895, during which time we’ve had many prominent artists Cheryl Mitchell overlooks a Guatemalan who taught here and Mask Collection recently donated by Dr. Jonathan A. Campbell and Tanya G. either left the univerDowdey-Campbell. The art is in one of the sity portions of their controlled environment arts storerooms at work, or who donatthe University of Texas Arlington. ed their own private collections,” Mitchell notes. “Alumni and others have also made donations from time to time. The overall collection is substantial.”

That includes Tom Piccolo sculptures, paintings by Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, William Bennet and Salvador Dali, glassworks by David Keen, and what has now grown into one of the larger university collections of African and South American art in the country. Add to that a vast collection of public art found everywhere outside, ranging from esoteric fountains and sculptures to the current vogue of using life-size maverick horses for a painter’s palette.

Which brings up the big question: Who has been keeping up with and maintaining art collected over the university’s complicated 122-year history that includes eight name changes and multiple administrative changes?

“Good question,” Mitchell says, “the answer to which is that until recently keeping up with all of it hasn’t always been a priority. There was never a strategized system or traditional inventory system like you would find at a museum location. UTA, though well known for Mitchell stands with a Chi Wara Headdress from the Bambara working with the arts community, peoples of Mali, Africa. It is made of a hardwood and decorated had not really launched into that with beads, cowrie, shells, fiber and cloth, and metal tin applique. In the background is a work by Leonard Baskin titled area in terms of inventory, upkeep “Angel of Death,” which is described as a Monumental Woodcut and thinking about those kinds Print on Rice Paper. It was donated by Allan Saxe in the late of collections until recently. Even 1980s. a Picasso needs love – and some Photos: O.K. Carter thought about how it will be seen, preserved and protected.”

The most glaring example of the issue came in the late 1970s when a Monet and a Toulouse-Lautrec painting were stolen from a back-hallway area of the Herford Student Center, never to be recovered.

“That,” Mitchell says, “was the first real eye opener about the need to better monitor UTA’s growing art collection.”

IN 2013, MITCHELL, then a doctoral student, became more closely involved with the collection at the urging of Director of Visual Resources Rita Lasater. Lasater was working with a large, unique and extremely valuable collection of African art donated by famed herpetologist Dr. Jonathan Campbell and his wife Tanya Dowdy.

That collection would later be added to by former UTA biology Chairman Dr. Edmond Brody, who spent more than three decades traveling with Dr. Campbell across Africa and South America, always collecting native art in addition to their biology research.

Some of the pieces date back more than 2,000 years.

“Those two collections made it apparent that we had to catalog our art more precisely, but we didn’t really consider the need to provide an accounting of everything we had here until these two giant collections arrived,” Mitchell recalls. “Campbell and Brody saw the success of how we were caring for and displaying the exhibitions, providing opportunities for students to research the art, providing community access programs and exhibitions. Then it began to spring roll from there, with more art donations coming it. That’s when we really began to think about not only what’s here but what’s everywhere.” >>>

This untitled and recently restored sculpture is on the north side of the Fine Arts Building. It was created by abstract expressionist Charles T. Williams, who worked strongly in the 1950s–60s. This work was originally on view in front of the library and was damaged due to the flexible nature of the metal under the strong winds. It was restored

by Professor and Artist Darryl Lauster and then placed on display in its new location.

arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

53

Often using students, Mitchell began the equivalent of a walking windshield tour of campus, not only photographing art but making note of the conditions for that art – light, humidity, temperature, overall exposure.

Sometimes the results were surprising and demanded immediate action. A Picasso painting was framed on a wall above a trash can near the student food court. A Piccolo sculpture was so close to a building door that it was not only exposed to drafts and the occasional friendly student hand rub, but also splashed with water from passing stuMitchell with a Fon (King Ancestral Portrait) made by dents on rainy days. “Some of the framthe Bamun peoples of Cameroon, Africa. It is from the early 20th century and is carved from a soft wood ing for the more valuable paintings was with kaolin pigment (clay-like paint indigenous to also showing wear,” Mitchell says. “We the region). It was donated by Dr. Edmund and Mrs. also kept discovering pieces we didn’t Judith Brodie. know about. Or, at least, they weren’t on a formal inventory.”

Over the past three years the value of the newly re-discovered art at UTA has grown steadily. Though Mitchell isn’t in the art appraisal business, she estimates the value of newly inventories art to be substantial – perhaps $2 million, quite likely more. That’s not counting the earlier inventory.

“It’s treasures like the Picasso and the Piccolo we want to seek out,” Mitchell says. “We’ve also found sculptures placed intermittently across the campus that need scheduled care. Many were architectural commissions that were intended to complement buildings that they were with. That’s a major project we’re working. Sure there are Monets and Dalis, but also [works of] less well known artists that are nevertheless quite valuable.”

Not all of UTA’s art is visible at all times. Some is kept in three different storage areas under optimum conditions – dim lights, low humidity, temperatures in the low to mid 60s. Delightful surprises also show up in those rooms – here a 300-pound African hornbill bird sculpture, there a hundred-pound ceremonial head piece, and on a shelf a 300 B.C. terra cotta African Nok pottery (itself valued at around $80,000).

Mitchell says the process of inventory and planning stops and starts, depending on funding, with yet another push planned this summer with the addition of a three-student inventory crew. She anticipates new discoveries.

The master plan? Expand the knowledge and awareness of the collections for not only the university community, but the region – more availability of the art not only for student study but also UTA also has a lot of public art requiring constant maintenance like this one. Leonardo in exhibitions and on-line. de Vinci 450 years ago made drawings of a helicopter-like “helical air screw” he believed would fly. UTA Associate Professor Darryl Lauster used the drawings to inspire “We have a superb collection of art forms that reflect all kinds this aluminum and dacron interpretation that now resides in the university Research of cultural histories,” Mitchell says. “We want to protect them Quadrangle Courtyard of the Engineering Research Building. and share them.”

2017 dog social

Friday, April 28 | 6-9 PM | Vandergriff Park live music | local beer | Food trucks Ages 21+ | Leashed Dogs Welcome First 500 people to pre-register will receive a special edition pint glass and one FREE beer from Arlington’s Legal Draft (21+) at the event!

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arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

55

Altruism

A real POWER COUPLE

The Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA will honor Bill and Shari Bowie this month with an award in their name

A

dedicated their lives to helping others through a number of different organizations. To name a few of these avenues they have used we have Salvation Army, SafeHaven, the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA, the Trinity Sports Foundation, and, of course, their church Trinity United Methodist Church.”

Bill, who owns a consulting company based in Fort Worth, says he and his wife are grateful for their association with the YMCA that started on the basketball court so many years ago.

“When I was coaching our son in basketball, one of the opposing coaches happened to be Jim Hiner, president and CEO of the Arlington YMCA (now AMA YMCA),” he recalls. “He asked me if I would be interested in working on their Youth Support Campaign. We had no idea; we both grew up in small towns, and the only thing we knew about the YMCA was the song. But we learned very quickly what a treasure the YMCA is for a community. As with every activity or group Shari or I engage in, we quickly bring the other partner into the action. I did that first Youth campaign in the mid ‘90s, and we quickly got further involved.”

Involvement is something that comes second nature to Bill and Shari, who, Bill says, is “Senior VP of Domestic Operations” for Bowie Inc. “I’m kidding, although there is a lot of truth in that she manages all of our interests and volunteers at a number of local charities.”

The YMCA, in particular, became a family focus, for a number of reasons. “What we found most appealing is the fact that it is Christian-based,” he says. “And that no one EVER gets turned away (NO ONE). We love that it is family focused, that the people who work there have generally made a conscious choice for their life that their first priority is to serve others, that the volunteers of the YMCA are some of the best people in the community, that the programs they offer focus on real needs in the community, Bill and Shari Bowie will be honored and that the YMCA always makes us feel appreciated for on April 20 for years of service to the our time, our talents, and our treasures.”

Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA. The annual luncheon during which the Bowies will be honored will begin at 11:30 a.m. on the 20th at the Mac Photo courtesy of Bill and Shari Bowie Bernd Professional Development Center (1111 W. Arbrook Blvd.). The Bowies will be ones in the crowd blushing. “We have never few more deserving recipients of a namesake award that celebrates wanted or expected awards or recognition for our efforts or our gifts,” commitment not just to the “Y,” but to the community in general.

Bill says. “We are very humbled by it and still not sure we have fully “Bill and Shari Bowie represent just that, support to the community processed the real honor it is.” and to those in need,” Aguirre says. “These two individuals have s Coach Bill Bowie put his YMCA youth basketball team through the paces during a season in the mid 1990s, he had no idea that two decades later his name – and that of his wife Shari – would become symbolic of what the “Y” is all about.

Truth be told, he was just hoping the kids could learn to make a layup.

Now, those kids – and thousands of others with and for whom the Bowies worked – are grownups who benefited from the couple’s devotion to their physical, emotional and spiritual development. And now the YMCA is about to deliver a slam dunk.

At the April 20 Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA’s 2017 Better Together Luncheon, organization officials will present the Bill and Shari Bowie Community Leadership Award. In years to come, the award will go to other significant volunteers, but Roberto E. Aguirre, president and CEO of the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA, says he can think of

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

DAY CAMPS, SPORTS CAMPS, SWIM LESSONS & MUCH MORE!

CENTRAL YMCA NORTH YMCA COOPER ST. YMCA 2200 S. Davis Dr. 1005 Skyline Dr. 7120 S. Cooper St. (817)274-9622 (817)548-9622 (817)419-9629

COME JOIN THE FUN! Downtown Arlington is your “Can’t-Miss-Destination” for Music, Culture, Dining and Shopping!

APRIL

April 8 Jimmy Fortune • Arlington Music Hall April 13 Symphony Arlington featuring Laura Ospina • Arlington Music Hall April 15 5th Annual Mudbug Bash • Levitt Pavilion April 22 Timeless Concert Series: Journey Down the Danube - Arlington Museum of Art April 22 West Side Story • UTA Mainstage Theatre

DOWNTOWNARLINGTON.ORG

arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

57

Picture-perfect Moments

Photos: Pickle Parade Facebook page

Pickle Run runners are off and running.

Monday, June 12th

The Accent Podiatry team members don their St. Patrick’s Day green shirts.

Walnut Creek Country Club

The Pickle Parade Pickle has fun with festival goers.

sponsored by

Scene

Snapshots from Mansfield’s St. Paddy’s Pickle Parade and Palooza and the Alliance For Children’s Let’s Play Bingo Ladies Luncheon

Join These Major Sponsors!

Photos: Bobby Cornelius

Julie Wolf, Juliann Gregory, Kendra Bowen, Jane Luig, Sandy Bowen and Heather Baxter

Ashley Flowers, Alison McMillon and Monica Studzinski at the Alliance for Children event 58

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

Melanie Klaus, Amber Weiss, Robin Lutrell, Chelsea Magby and Courtney Garrison at the Let’s Play Bingo Ladies Luncheon

For Sponsor and Player Informaaon parforthekids.com | 817-275-6551 (x229)

Local Eateries

First Annual Charity Golf Tournament MONDAY, MAY 1, 2017 9 a.m. Shotgun Start at Rolling Hills Country Club

Play golf, have lunch, enter the Putting Contest, win a raffle prize and get a great buy at the Silent Auction!

Registration for players and sponsors at www.rhccma.com

Photos: yelp.com

For more information call Dani Rusbult 817-274-1072 or Events@Rolling-Hills.net

ROLLING HILLS COUNTRY CLUB • 401 E. LAMAR BLVD. • ARLINGTON TX 76011

Things that W make you go ’YUM!’ Info on local restaurants you need to visit is just a turn of the page away

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

e’re going to go out on a limb and suggest that your eyes took pause as you turned to this page. While we’re hanging here, we’re also going to offer another notion: Your eyes weren’t the only sensory perceptor to take notice of the collection of succulent imagery representing the fare at some of Arlington’s favorite restaurants. We wish we had the technology to do the “scratch and sniff” thing here.

No matter, your eyes triggered your brain to imagine the aroma, and then, for good measure, your brain reminded you that anything that looks that good and smells that good likely measures high in the taste department, as well.

But don’t take our word for it. We suggest you hop in the Familymobile – or whatever mode of transportation that bests connects hither and yon – to find out if what you’re seeing is too good to be true.

By name, the establishments represented in the photos above are called restaurant506 at The Sanford House, Rio Mambo, Café Sicilia and Fontana’s Fine Cuisine. And you can find out all about them on the ensuing pages.

an 8” or 10” decorated cake ($29 or $39 value)

Arlington

5001 S. Cooper Street, #111 Arlington, TX 76017 (817) 557-2253 nothingbundtcakes.com

Expires 4/30/17. Limit one coupon per guest. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Redeemable only at the bakery listed. Must be claimed in-bakery during normal business hours. No cash value.

17-KT-0033-0302_Easter_8x4-875.indd 1

3/8/17 3:48 PM arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY 61

Frittata with hollandaise added

2016 Winner

Italian cuisine at its best

“All Star Italian” - Readers’ Choice

FREE APPETIZER with the purchase of Two Dinners. (dine-in only) CAFE SICILIA

Not valid with any other offer.

One coupon per customer per table.

Expires 4/30/17.

restaurant506 at The Sanford House A patron says: “The best fine dining experience in Arlington – without a doubt!”

L

ocated in the Manor House of The Sanford House, restaurant506 presents contemporary dining fare in an exquisite atmosphere to the Arlington Texas community. The restaurant is open to the public on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings for dinner from 5:30-9 p.m. Lunch is served Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m.-2 pm. Saturday and Sunday Brunch is available from 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Reservations are recommended.

Café Sicilia

A patron says: “The ambiance gave it that Italian café vibe, and the food was excellent and hot.”

C

afé Sicilia, located at 7221 Matlock Road, features a warm, family atmosphere and some of the better Italian cuisine in the DFW Metroplex. “We are a gathering place for friends, neighbors and passers-by,” says owner Fernando Nogueira.

“Our diverse menu offers something for everyone: pizza, pasta, chicken, veal, seafood and much more.”

About the menu General Manager Valerie Landry says restaurant506 offers “Inspired American” cuisine, which features dishes made with fresh ingredients and hand-prepared by restaurant chefs. “Every evening your taste adventure begins with our ‘Amuse Bouche,’” she says.

“This ‘amusement for the mouth’ is a succulent bite designed to whet your appetite.” The menu changes seasonally, and new dishes are regularly featured as specials.

About the menu Lunch specials at Café Sicilia start at $6.50 for a two-course meal, plus a drink, and include spaghetti with meatballs, stuffed shells, Pasta Barese (sautéed with spinach, garlic and white wine sauce), ravioli cheese, linguine meat sauce, Rigatoni Marinara, pizza, soup and salad. The $7.50 lunches feature lasagna, chicken parmigiana, pasta treat (shell, ravioli, manicotti and pink sauce), Fettuccine Alfredo, Ziti Siciliana (ziti, eggplant, three cheeses and marinara sauce), strombolli, calzone, eggplant parmigiana, and manicotti. The dinner menu offers all this and more. Plus, you can bring your own wine.

Holiday treat This Easter (April 16), the restaurant is offering a three-course brunch from 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Takeout service If you prefer to stay in, Café Sicilia offers a delivery service from 5 p.m. to areas within a three-mile radius of the restaurant.

For more: restaurant506.com

For more: cafesicilia.com

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7221 Matlock Rd. 1548 Bedford Rd. 6801 Rufe Snow Dr. Arlington 76002 Bedford 76021 Watauga 76148 817-419-2800 817-318-6664 817-428-5110 Visit cafesicilia.com for Specials and New Menu Items.

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Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2016 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.

arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

63

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Not Tex Mex, but “Chef Mex”

Desserts that look as good as they taste

Rio Mambo

A patron says: “I really like this place. Love their brisket tacos and chicken enchiladas.”

R

io Mambo, located at 6407 S. Cooper St. and at 2150 E. Lamar Blvd., #120, doesn’t serve just Tex Mex, says owner Brent Johnson. “Recipes are important, and while there are a vast number of translations to basic Tex Mex, ultimately the real secret lies in the ingredients. Our commitment to quality meats and produce, aged cheese and fresh herbs and spices will provide you with the difference we call Chef Mex.” About the menu Rio Mambo offers a wide selection of options on its dinner menu, including “Chef Mex,” enchiladas, specialty plates, sizzling beef and chicken platters and seafood. The lunch menu has daily specials, soups and salads. For brunch, patrons can try all manner of “Chef Mex” and American dishes. Plus, the bar drinks are “primo.”

Fontanta’s Fine Cuisine

T

A patron says: “Most excellent. The Chicken Parm was one of the best I’ve had.”

he Rajestari family has been providing exquisite dining experiences to DFW Metroplex patrons for more than 40 years.

Now, with the recent opening of Fontana’s Fine Cuisine at 6407 S. Cooper St., Suite 101, Arlington customers are discovering what owner Reza Rajestari means when he says, “If you want the best, you need to come eat with us.”

About the atmosphere Rajestari says he crafted Fontana’s to capture the fine dining experiences of the 1970s and ‘80s, with carefully placed white tablecloths and artistically folded napkins. “There’s definitely a good feeling as you walk in,” he says. “It’s a very different, very peaceful environment.”

Large groups are welcome Rio Mambo was designed to accommodate large groups. So whether you are having a bridal reception, baby shower, holiday party or office meeting, the staff can design a menu that will fit your needs.

A customized menu (with choice of four entrees, chips and salsa and non-alcoholic drinks) is available for groups of 25 and larger.

About the menu The lunch menu features appetizers, soups, salads, and more than a dozen entrees, including pasta and baked pasta dishes, chicken and beef. For dinner, the spectrum widens to include 14 appetizer choices, eight types of salad, three soups and entree selections that also feature veal, fish and seafood options. And, as shown above, scrumptious desserts are also part of the regular fare at Fontana’s.

For more: riomambo.com

For more: fontanasfinecuisine.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

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arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

65

Innovation

DRIVERLESS cars?

Arlington has been chosen as one of the testing grounds for the new technology • By Toni Randle-Cook

T

he future of transportation is driving into Arlington!

The city has been named as part of an “Automated Vehicle Proving Ground,” or an area where driverless cars and trucks can be tested.

Last year, 22 agencies within Texas worked together to submit a proposal to the U.S. Department of Transportation for the state to be designated an AV Proving Ground. The USDOT awarded 10 sites nationally, and the “Texas AV Proving Grounds Partnership” was one of them.

Austin, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio and El Paso are included in the Partnership. In North Texas, Arlington is getting the most attention because of where the test areas are located: the University of Texas Arlington campus, the city’s Entertainment District and a 15-mile stretch of the I-30 corridor.

Dr. Christopher Poe of the Texas A&M TransporA driverless bus took a test run tation Institute has been around Globe Life Park in February. involved in the project from the beginning. “I think one of the things that makes Arlington very attractive is in a very small geographic area you have a high-speed freeway and managed lane which is right next to an entertainment district, where it has a lot of people tying to get to their destinations,” he says. “And then just to the south of the entertainment district you have the UTA campus. Again, it’s a high-density area, a lot of people trying to move around.” Poe says these various environments make Arlington a unique place to test some of the AV technologies.

There’s no word, however, on when testing will happen.

While the federal government gave the green light, the project approval did not include any funding. “We have to rely on public agencies or private companies that are interested in some

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

sort of AV technology to come forward, and those will be the first tests done,” says Poe. Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams is more optimistic about the timeline.

“Right now, we are into a revolution of transportation technology that is going to afford Arlington great opportunities,” says Williams.

The mayor hopes to have a pilot project this summer. He may get his wish. The new technology has already been introduced in the city. In February, the Easy Mile AV Road Trip 2017 made a stop at the Arlington Convention Center to demonstrate the EZ10 driverless shuttle. About 200 people rode in the shuttle, and, according to Mayor Williams, everyone who did said it was a great experience.

Dr. Poe says there’s a reason Arlington was added onto Easy Mile’s national tour: “I’ll tell you what Arlington has that is maybe ahead of the pack is that there are some staff at the public agencies that are very proactive in trying to get a pilot Photo: texastribune.org project started.”

Once a pilot project is launched, you won’t look over and see an empty car on the road. Poe says the early testing of an autonomous vehicle will always be done with a driver or technician in the front seat to be able to take over in any event.

Mayor Williams says that while he understands there is fear in the unknown, this is an exciting time for Arlington.

“We’ll have an opportunity for our citizens to actually try it out for themselves and to be able to see whether they like it,” says Williams. “And I love that about a pilot program; it’s not permanent. It’s just something we are trying out.”

As the 10 proving grounds try out the technology, they will report back to the U.S. Department of Transportation and help it formulate a plan to roll out the technology on a national level.

At River Legacy Living Science Center, we connect children & families to nature Nature School

Summer at the Science Center

Children ages 3 to 6 explore the natural world through nature walks, stories, art and song at Nature School. Small classes, nurturing teachers and exciting hands-on learning activities set them on a path to love learning!

Weeklong summer classes provide children ages 3 to 8th grade with an exciting hands-on, minds-on opportunity to explore our natural world. A variety of programs engage students in explorations of science, ecology, wildlife and more.

Summer Classes • After-School Clubs • Home School Classes • Scout Programs • FREE Saturday Public Programs Online Registration Available: www.riverlegacy.org. Call 817.860.6752, ext. 102 for more info.

703 NW Green Oaks Boulevard • Arlington, TX 76006 • 817.860.6752 • www.riverlegacy.org • reply@riverlegacy.org

Harper Lee’s

Directed by Michael Serrecchia & featuring local favorite, Todd Hart as Atticus Finch

Dramatized by Christopher Sergel

APRIL 7-23, 2017

THURSDAYS 7:30 P.M. • FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS 8 P.M. SUNDAYS 2 P.M. (No performance on Easter Sunday, April 16)

Production Sponsor: PRESENTING SEASON SPONSOR:

305 W. Main Street Arlington 76010

817.275.7661 TheatreArlington.org

Opening Night Sponsor: SEASON SPONSORS:

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

 

 

Picture-perfect Moments

    

BAYLOR ORTHOPEDIC & SPINE HOSPITAL Presents

2017 Summer Concert Series free music under the stars

Now part of Baylor Scott & White Hospital

MAY

100 W. ABRAM ST. IN FOUNDERS’ PLAZA

24-HOUR INFO LINE:

817.543.4301

Download the Levitt Arlington app!

Photos: Southern Flair Photography

The official ribbon cutting ceremony for the River Legacy Foundation Capital Campaign

Get weather alerts, concert info and more!

Rebirth Brass Band

Presented by

Ambrosia

Bleu Edmondson

Presented by

MAY 20 • 8 P.M.

MAY 19 • 8 P.M.

Presented by

MAY 21 • 8 P.M.



 

Sarah Jaffee

Presented by

MAY 26 • 8 P.M.

Jonthan Tyler

La Tropa F

Presented by

Presented by

MAY 28 • 8 P.M.

MAY 27 • 8 P.M.

JUNE

THURSDAYS ARE FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT! Bryan Weatherford, Jill HIll and Becky Nussbaum at the River Legacy event

Scene

Photo: Wally Goodman

Author Jim Whiddon, Nancy Hadaway, Dorothy Rencurrel and author Judson Stone at the Friends and Foundation of the Arlington Public Library event

Snapshots from the River Legacy Foundation Capital Campaign kickoff, the Friends and Foundation of the Arlington Public Library’s Author Luncheon, the MPAC planning meeting for the April 1 Candidates’ Breakfast and the Show Out DFW award presented by the Kristina Anderson Group of Ebby Halliday Realtors and Chick-Fil-A North Collins



THURSDAY, JUNE 8 • 8 P.M.

American Jazz Composers Orchestra JUNE 2 • 8 P.M. JUNE 4 • 8 P.M. JUNE 3 • 8 P.M. DOWNTOWN ARLINGTON CENTER STAGE MUSIC FESTIVAL



Humming House

Presented by

Uncle Lucius

Presented by

Presented by

THURSDAY, JUNE 15 • 8 P.M.



Reckless Kelly

JUNE 9 • 8:30 P.M.

Presented by

Orleans

Presented by

Black Violin

JUNE 10 • 8:30 P.M.

JUNE 11 • 8:30 P.M.

Presented by

THURSDAY, JUNE 29 • 8 P.M. Photos: Donna Darovich

MPAC members Jeannie Deakyne, Gara Hill and Holly Potter-Harvey

STAY TUNED!





JUNE 16 • 8 P.M.

Presents

JUNE 17 • 8 P.M.

Presented by

$65 Reserved VIP Seating at the Front of the Lawn $35 General Admission

Los TexManiacs & Flaco Jimenez

Presented by

Somebody’s Darling

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JUNE 18 • 8 P.M.

Tickets available online at LevittPavilionArlington.org

Fri., June 23 •7:30 P.M.

 ROBERT EARL KEEN

Prophets and Outlaws

100 W. Abram St. in Founders Plaza • 24-Hour Info 817.543.4301 with Special Guest

CORY MORROW

Thank you to our Benefit Concert Sponsors!

JUNE 30 • 8 P.M.

2017 LEVITT SUMMER CONCERT SEASON SPONSORS ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

Photo: Southern Flair Photography

Kelsey Hicks, Preston Anderson, Kristina Anderson, honoree Robert “Bob” Shelton (owner of Sheltons Water), Whitney Shelton Stone, Carmenza Mendoza and Beth Ann Jones 68

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

MPAC members Carole Hoyer, Martha Kinard and Sue Phillips

UTATickets.com



Don’t Miss the 3rd Annual

Tennis Tip

‘Tis the season – to start playing TENNIS

I

t’s that time of year to head to the tennis courts, whether you’re a seasoned player, or a complete beginner. Tennis is the sport of a lifetime that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and at any level. Tennis provides benefits like no other sport or activity, and it’s a great way make new friends, spend time with family, or get some exercise. The research has been done by the experts, and the facts are in: 1. According to Ralph Paffenbarger, Physician at Harvard School of Public Health, people who participate in tennis three hours per week cut their risk of death in half from any cause. (Paffenbarger studied more than 10,000 people over a period of 20 years in his Alumni Health Study).

2. Tennis players scored higher in vigor, optimism and selfesteem while scoring lower in depression, anger, confusion, anxiety and tension than other athletes or non-athletes, according to Dr. Joan Finn in a study at Southern Connecticut State University.

3. Because tennis requires alertness and tactical thinking it may

generate new connections between nerves in the brain and thus promote a lifetime of continuing development of the brain, reported scientists at the University of Illinois.

4. According to Dr. Jim Gavin, author of the “Exercise Habit,” tennis outperforms golf, inline skating and most other sports in developing positive personality characteristics.

5. Competitive tennis burns more calories than aerobics, skating, and cycling, according to the studies on Caloric Expenditures.

It’s no surprise that scientists, physicians, and educators believe tennis is the most healthful sport and activity in which to get involved. No other sport has been praised as much as tennis for its physical benefits, mental stimulation, and emotional stability and growth. So, it is time to pick those racquets, go play some tennis and start making your life better!

MAY 3RD, 2017 • 12PM

ON THE FIELD OF AT&T STADIUM

Article author James Helvey Jr., MS Behavioral Science, is the new Head Tennis Professional at Arlington Tennis Center.

THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF ARLINGTON PRESENTS THE

GOLF TOURNAMENT 1:30 PM: Shotgun Start EARLY REGISTRATION:$150 single, $600 team AFTER APRIL 1ST:$175 single, $700 team

CONCERT & DINNER ME & MY MONKEY

6 PM: Dinner and Live Concert Begin

Photo credit: Jeremiah Jhass

TIERRA VERDE GOLF CLUB ARLINGTON, TEXAS

FRIDAY , APRIL 28 th F O R D E TA I L S & R E G I S T R AT I O N V I S I T J L A R L I N G T O N . O R G The Junior League of Arlington is a non-profit, educational and charitable organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

To date, JLA has provided over one million volunteer hours to more than 100 non-profit agencies.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

GUEST SPEAKER

EMMITT SMITH

Mistress of Ceremonies Karen Borta Honorary Chairs

The Honorable Mayor Jeff & Karen Williams The Honorable Mayor David & Tonya Cook Special Guest Singer Aquile Luncheon Chairman Mark Caffey Luncheon Vice-Chair Claire Wheeler

All Proceeds Go to Support The YOUTH EDUCATION TOWN NORTH TEXAS Sponsorships & Tables Available, Contact: mc.michaelcunningham@gmail.com lindamagazzine@ebby.com bridget.lenhardt@uss.salvationarmy.org For tickets: 817-860-1836 or inspiringhopeluncheon.eventbrite.com

Dining Guide

Keen cuisine!

Here are local restaurants you should check out UPSCALE Chamas do Brazil chamasdobrazil2.tru-m.com 4606 S. Cooper St. • (817) 618-2986 Fontana’s Fine Cuisine fontanasfinecuisine.com 6407 S. Cooper St., Suite 101 (682) 323-5704 The Keg Steakhouse • Bar kegsteakhouse.com 4001 Arlington Highlands Blvd.

(817) 465-3700 Piccolo Mondo piccolomondo.com 829 Lamar Blvd. E. • (817) 265-9174 restaurant506 at The Sanford House restaurant506.com 506 N. Center St. • (817) 801-5541 AMERICAN Candlelite Inn candleliteinnarlington.com 1202 E. Division St. • (817) 275-9613 Chop House Burgers chophouseburgers.com 2230 W. Park Row Drive, Suite A, Pantego (817) 459-3700 Grease Monkey greasemonkeyburgers.com 200 N. Mesquite St. • (817) 665-5454 J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill jgilligans.com 400 E. Abram St. • (817) 274-8561 Mac’s Bar & Grill macsteak.com 6077 West-I20 • (817) 572-0541 Dino’s Subs 2221 S. Collins St. • (817) 274-1140 MEXICAN/TEX-MEX Blue Mesa Grill bluemesagrill.com 550 Lincoln Square • (682) 323-3050 72

El Arroyo elarroyoarlington.com 5024 S. Cooper St. • (817) 468-2557 El Primo’s Mexican Grill & Cantina elprimos.net 2300 Matlock Road, #21, Mansfield (817) 225-4140 Fuzzy’s Taco Shop fuzzystacoshop.com 510 E. Abram St. • (817) 265-8226 4201 W. Green Oaks Blvd.

(817) 516-8226 1601 E. Debbie Lane, Mansfield (817) 453-1682 Rio Mambo riomambo.com 2150 E. Lamar Blvd. • (817) 795-4555 6407 S. Cooper St. • (817) 465-3122 ITALIAN/PIZZA Cafe Sicilia cafesicilia.com 7221 Matlock Road • (817) 419-2800 Gino’s East ginoseast.com 1350 E. Copeland Road • (817) 809-7437 Mama’s Pizza mammaspizzas.com 1200 N. Fielder • (817) 795-8700 SEAFOOD Pantego Bay Gulf Coast Café 2233 West Park Row, Pantego (817) 303-4853 BARBECUE Bodacious Bar-B-Q bodaciousbbqarlington.com 1206 E. Division St. • (817) 860-4248 David’s Barbecue davidsbarbecue.com 2224 West Park Row • (817) 261-9998

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

Dessert, anyone? How about a good ItaIian Panna Cotta?

PANNA COTTA IS A CLASSIC ITALIAN DESSERT from the Piedmont region of Northern Italy. The word Panna Cotta translates to “cooked cream” in Italian. This custard-like dessert looks fancy but it is actually very quick and easy to make. Panna Cotta is the perfect way to end a family meal or a dinner party. This is a wonderful dessert for any home cook to have in their repertoire. The cream is sweetened and thickened with a little gelatin so that it can set. The most important thing to master is to get the ratio of gelatin to cream just right. Too much gelatin and the Panna Cotta will be overly firm like Jello; not enough gelatin and the result will be a tasty but not very attractive puddle of sweetened cream!

A good Panna Cotta should be rich and creamy with just the right amount of wobble. Once you have mastered the basic mixture it is easy to experiment with exciting and endless flavor combinations. How about vanilla Panna Cotta with fresh seasonal fruit, or strawberries and aged balsamic vinegar or Coffee Panna Cotta that tastes just like a really good cappuccino?

The following recipe serves four if made in 5-ounce Ramekins or molds. If you wish to follow the current trend of serving petite desserts you could serve it in smaller Martini or other pretty glasses, which may give you more servings depending on the size of the glass. If you decide to serve the Panna Cotta in a glass it has the added bonus of not having to unmold your dessert!

UNITED WAY-ARLINGTON

REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY LUNCHEON How a collaborative spirit and problem-solving partnerships make Arlington a community that comes together to advance the education, financial stability and health of all.

Wednesday, April 12, 2017 12pm to 1:30pm

(Registration 11:30am to Noon)

Coffee Panna Cotta

Ingredients: 2 cups plus 3 tablespoons heavy cream • 1/3 cup milk • 1/4 cup prepared espresso ( you could replace the prepared espresso with 1 1/2 tablespoons coffee granules dissolved in 1/4 cup boiling water) • 1/2 cup sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla essence • 3 sheets leaf gelatin • pinch of salt Method: Place the Gelatin sheets in a small bowl of cold water and leave for 5-10 minutes, until softened. Put the cream, milk, espresso and sugar in a small, heavy-based saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat and bring to a simmer. Remove from the heat. Stir in the vanilla and pinch of salt.

Squeeze out the soaked Gelatin leaves and stir into the hot cream, mixing well until the Gelatin is completely dissolved. Pour the mixture through a sieve into a pitcher. Cool slightly. Before pouring the mixture into the molds or ramekins rinse them in ice cold water, shaking out the excess moisture.

This trick will help you unmold the dessert later. Refrigerate for about four hours or overnight to set. Decorate the dessert with chocolate shavings, candied hazelnuts or chocolate sauce.

Buon Appetito!

Karin Stoman

WHERE:

Mediterranean Villa

COST:

$25 per person

1111 Wet N Wild Way, Arlington, TX 76011 Includes buffet-style lunch

Reserve your tickets today at:

unitedwaytarrant.org/ARLINGTONREPORT Media Sponsor: Arlington Today Magazine

Health & Fitness

Photo: backgrounds-free.com

Thank You to Everyone who Stepped Up to the Plate for The Miracle League DFW

The official land pill fill This month, the city is giving you a safe and organized way to dispose of unused or unwanted pharmaceuticals

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f you have unused or unwanted medications or other pharmaceuticals you’d like to purge from your home, circle the date, April 29. While you’re at it, circle the times, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., on that date. Better yet, don’t just circle dates and times; rather, round up all the unwanted drugs and take them to the nearest collection site to dispose of them in a safe manner sanctioned and promoted by the city.

Here is some useful information, provided by the City of Arlington, to help you in that endeavor.

COLLECTION SITES • North Police District, 620 W. Division St., (817) 459-5600 • Walgreen’s Pharmacy, 4400 W. Green Oaks Blvd., (817) 563-0142 • East Police District, 2001 New York Ave., (817) 459-5803 • South Police District, 1030 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd., (817) 459-6640 DISPOSAL GUIDELINES Accepted: • Controlled, non-controlled, and over the counter medications • All solid dosage pharmaceutical products and liquids in consumer containers (please keep liquid products, such as cough syrups, sealed in original containers) Not Accepted: • Intravenous solutions, injectables, and syringes • Illicit substances, such as marijuana or methamphetamine TIPS Participants may dispose of medication in its original container or by removing the medication from its container and dispos74

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

ing of it directly into the disposal box. All participants must retain possession of their own medication during the surrender process.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT DRUG DISPOSAL Whenever possible, take your unused pharmaceuticals to a pharmaceutical collection event. Note: If you choose to store your waste while you wait for a pharmaceutical collection event to occur, please minimize the risk of accidental poisoning, overdose or diversion (illegal use by someone other than the intended person) by storing medications out of reach of children or in a locked cabinet.

Dispose of your unused pharmaceuticals in the trash. Especially when there is a risk of accidental poisoning, overdose or diversion, it is better to dispose of household pharmaceuticals than to hang onto them. When placing unused pharmaceuticals in the trash, be sure to do the following: • Remove or mark over all labels that identify the materials as pharmaceuticals or that could provide personal information about you, including prescription information that someone could try to refill.

• Render them unattractive to children and thieves by dissolving them in a small amount of water or alcohol, or by grinding them up and mixing them with coffee grounds or kitty litter; and put them in a second container or small plastic bag and hide them in your trash.

• Never burn pharmaceuticals or personal care products in a burn barrel. Uncontrolled burning can create dioxins and other air pollutants.

• Never flush pharmaceuticals down the toilet or pour down the drain.

I N C O R P O R AT E D

Texas Rangers Alumni Fielder Park Dental • Customize Incorporated Williams Financial • R&D Occasions • ProEarth Margret Inman • Vernon Wells Paul Jones • Tina & Roy Cox

Love your . . .

Nightlife & More

Sights/Sounds

COMING ATTRACTIONS

Cast your vote in the annual Arlington Today ALL STAR Readers’ Choice awards.

Your resource for entertainment in and around Arlington TRIVIA: Live Trivia with the PubGuys When: April 5, 12, 19, 26 Where: World of Beer (5005 S. Cooper St.) Show time: 7 p.m.

Notes: Here’s a tip to help you make the most of the evening: Bring your smart friends for the answers and your rich friends for the tab.

For more: worldofbeer.com/ locations

MUSIC: Live Band Karaoke with Overdrive When: April 5, 12, 19, 26 Where: Fat Daddy’s Sports & Spirits Cafe (781 W. Debbie Lane, Mansfield) Show time: 8 p.m.

Notes: Overdrive is a premier cover band that plays top 100 hits that lend themselves ideally to a crazy-fun karaoke night.

For more: fatdaddyslive.com

MUSIC: Olivia Newton-John When: April 6 Where: Verizon Theatre (1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie) Show time: 8 p.m.

Notes: Newton-John’s 1973 U.S. album debut, “Let Me Be There,” produced her first Top 10 single of the same name, launching a stellar career that has seen her win four Grammys, numerous Country Music Awards, American Music Awards and Peoples Choice Awards. She had five No. 1 hits, including “Physical,” which topped the charts for 10 consecutive weeks. And, of course, 76

many recall her as Sandy from the movie “Grease.”

For more: verizontheatre.com

THEATER: The Shakespeare Project: Tamin’ of the Shrew When: April 7-8 Where: The LOT Downtown (110 S. Main St., Mansfield) Show time: Dusk Notes: Mansfield’s Mainstage Classic Theatre puts a Texas twist to one of The Bard’s classic plays.

For more: mainstageclassic theatre.org

MUSIC: April Concerts at Arlington Music Hall When: April 7, 8, 22 Where: Arlington Music Hall (224 N. Center St.) Show time: 7:30 p.m.

Notes: This month’s featured performers/performances at the storied venue include “Let’s Hang On! America’s #1 Frankie Valli Tribute Show!” (April 7), singer Jimmy Fortune (April 8) and impressionist Rich Little (April 22) For more: arlingtonmusichall.net

THEATER: To Kill a Mockingbird When: April 7-23 Where: Theatre Arlington (305 W. Main St.) Show time: 7:30 p.m. on Thursday; 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. on Sunday Notes: Christopher Sergel’s stage adaptation of Harper Lee’s 1960 Pulitzer Prize winning novel is a candid, yet poetic, commentary

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

on racism and laws. Set in 1935 in Macomb, Ala., the story also explores the issues of class, courage, compassion and gender roles through the eyes of such enduring characters as Atticus Finch and his daughter, Scout.

For more: theatrearlington.org

COMEDY: Steve Martin and Martin Short When: April 8 Where: Verizon Theatre (1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie) Show time: 8 p.m.

Notes: The two comic legends are bringing their “An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life” tour to Grand Prairie. In addition to the star comics, special guests for the show include Steep Canyon Rangers and Jeff Babko.

For more: verizontheatre.com

MUSIC: Symphony Arlington with featured Cellist Laura Ospina When: April 13 Where: Arlington Music Hall (224 N. Center St.) Show time: 7:30 p.m.

Notes: Winner of a Young Performers of the Bank of the Republic award in 1995, as well as many other significant musical citations, Ospina has been invited as a soloist with many of the world’s notable orchestras, including the Philharmonic Orchestra of Bogota, the Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra and the Manila Chamber Orchestra.

For more: symphonyarlington.org

doctor, dentist, realtor, beauty spa, burger spot, brewery, gift shop?

The mudbugs are calling your name THE FIFTH ANNUAL Mudbug Bash will be held from 4-10 p.m. on April 15 at the Levitt Pavilion.

Radio station 105.3 The FAN hosts the event, which features a crawfish feast, live music, games, beer, specialty drinks and fun for the entire family.

For more: dfw.cbslocal.com/ mudbug-bash-2017

Vote for all the great local businesses who help make living in Arlington, Kennedale, Mansfield and SW Grand Prairie so much fun!

ALL STARS of 2017

Photo: Timeless Concerts

Take a journey down the Danube TIMELESS CONCERTS will present “Journey Down the Danube” at 8 p.m. on April 22 at the Arlington Museum of Art. Some of the greatest music of all time has been composed in the countries along the Danube River in Europe. One automatically thinks of Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss, whose music will be included on this concert featuring the Kang-ChenowethSmith trio with tenor Don O’Neal LeBlanc and soprano Judith Rodriguez.

For more: timelessconcerts.com

 Readers’ Choice 

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GO TO ARLINGTONTODAY.COM, rlington REGISTER AND VOTE FOR ALL YOUR “ALL STARS!” your community • your magazine

Today

Vote today!

With 90+ categories you’re bound to find all your faves so go vote!

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

Speaking of Sports

On the right track

A Celebration of Excellence

UTA’s men’s track and field team has established – and followed – a path of greatness • By John Rhadigan

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and field has become an international recruiting game. Take Joel f you have ever driven around central Arlington, you have Duren, who led the Mavericks to last month’s indoor champiseen them honing their championship craft on the streets of onship. The native of Stockholm, Sweden, won two events, the our fair burg. They come from all over the world, bringing 3000-meter run and the mile run in a time of 4:12:51. The significhampionship talent to North Texas – specifically to the cance of this accomplishment is not lost on the young Swede. campus of the University of Texas Arlington. They look like your “I came here ranked fifth in the mile and third in the 3K,” an average health nut, fitness buff or jogger, but those runners you elated Duren said after the indoor meet. “I couldn’t dream of just see wearing the colors of UTA are champions. In fact, most of getting 28 points, it’s amazing.” them are Sun Belt Conference champs multiple times over.

Almost as amazing as what happened at the cross country This year the Mavs have a chance at the Triple Crown. To be meet in October. In that 8K race Duren finished 15th with a time clear, these runners are humans, not horses, but like their equine of 25:04.9. He was one of five brethren, these athletes train Mavericks who finished in every day for a chance at the top 20 that day. Craig greatness. And while the Sun Lautenslager won the meet, Belt Triple Crown is not as clocking in at 24:20.9. Michael elusive as the one in horse Guerrero finished fourth, racing, it is not easy to achieve and the Mavs won the meet either. by 21 points.

The Triple Crown of NCAA Like golf, in cross country track and field is achieved you are trying to attain the when one school wins the lowest score. UTA tallied cross country meet, the 45 points; the second place indoor championship and finisher, the University of the outdoor title. The Mavs Louisiana Lafayette, had 66. men have done this only once Photo: utamavs.com And so the stage is set for in history – that was back in The 2017 UTA men’s track and field team is one victory away from winning a Triple Crown. the drive to the Triple Crown.

2014. The women’s team has Sauerhage has had three teams achieve this before, and he won two Triple Crowns 1998 and 2001. wants this team to experience the sheer joy that comes with an Arlington’s own John Sauerhage is the constant in all the accomplishment like this. “We’re one championship away from success that the program has enjoyed. The head coach of the winning all three,” Sauerhage says. “These don’t come very easy. men’s and women’s cross country and track and field teams at We’re looking forward to the outdoor meet in San Marcos.”

UTA since 1996, has led the Mavericks to an astounding 27 team So the next time you see blue-and-orange-clad runners cruisconference championships. He has coached 29 athletes who have ing around the streets of Arlington, know that they are serious received All-America honors. athletes. They are not out there just horsing around, but they do Not that long ago, John was a young, long and lean runner have a chance to win the Triple Crown. getting his miles in around central Arlington. A graduate of Arlington High School, John was a six-time state qualifier and won the 5A state title in the mile run in 1979. To win it, all he had to do was set a personal best. He ran a mile in 4:10.6. I defy you Sports columnist John Rhadigan is an anchor for the Fox Sports to drive a mile in that time with the traffic these days.

Southwest television network.

He graduated from UTA in 1986 and three years later returned to his alma mater as an assistant coach. He served in that capacity for seven years, and in 1996 he took over as the head coach of the Mavericks.

Since that time the program’s success has been measured by championships. Like so many college sports in America, track 78

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

You are invited to attend The AWARE Foundation’s Dinner

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

Tuesday, May 9, 2017 6:30 p.m. Registration • 7:00 p.m. Dinner

University of Texas at Arlington Bluebonnet Ballroom $35.00 per person www.awarefoundation.com

Events, etc.

Itinerary

CIRCLE THE DATES

Your official Arlington-area guide to fun (and the like) April 1-19 What: Youth Art Month Where: Arlington Museum of Art (201 W. Main St.) When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. on Sunday In a nutshell: Each year in March and April, the AMA works collaboratively with the Arlington Independent School District to give students the opportunity to display their pieces, done in a wide variety of mediums, to the general public. It is held in conjunction with National Youth Art Month.

For more: arlingtonmuseum.org

April 1-May 28 What: Planetarium Spring Shows Where: The Planetarium at the University of Texas Arlington (700 Planetarium Place) When: See below for show times In a nutshell: Spring shows will include “Phantom of the Universe” (6 p.m.) and “Pink Floyd” (7 p.m.) on Fridays; “One World One Sky, Big Bird’s Adventure” (1 p.m.), “Secret of the Cardboard Rocket” (2 p.m.), “Phantom of the Universe” (6 p.m.) and “Pink Floyd” (7 p.m.) on Saturdays; and “Astronaut” (1:30 p.m.) and “Spacepark 360” (2:30 p.m.) on Sundays.

For more: uta.edu/planetarium

April 1 - Dec. 31 What: Donray Traveling Exhibits Where: Arlington Museum of Art (201 W. Main St.) When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. on Sunday.

In a nutshell: This exhibit 80

demonstrates the majesty of the Western American landscapes, birds, and performers. Donray’s technique captures the beauty of the natural world while commenting on the silent danger that exists out in the open, secluded space.

For more: arlingtonmuseum.org

April 3-5, 7-9, 20-26, 28-30 What: Texas Rangers baseball Where: Globe Life Park When: Check website for times In a nutshell: The defending American League West champs will entertain five teams this month: the Cleveland Indians (April 3-5), the Oakland A’s (April 7-9), the Kansas City Royals (April 20-23), the Minnesota Twins (April 24-26) and the Los Angeles Angels (April 28-30) For more: texasrangers.com

April 15-16 What: Easter Weekend Celebration Where: Six Flags Over Texas When: 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Sunday In a nutshell: In addition to all the great rides and attractions at the park, there will be a PEEPS® Easter Egg Hunt event at 9 a.m. before the park opens on Saturday. It will feature candy, giveaways and more.

Children ages 3-12 are invited to participate.

For more: sixflags.com/overtexas

April 17 What: Painting at the Park Where: Elmer W. Oliver Nature Park (1650 Matlock Road, Mansfield)

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

When: 10-11:30 a.m.

In a nutshell: Each month, Painting at the Park features painting classes, during which an artist will guide you in an easy to follow, step-by-step process to create a masterpiece. This is open to all skill levels. All materials are supplied, and preregistration is required. This month’s focus is on pond scenes.

For more: mansfieldtexas.gov/ event/5825/painting-at-the-park

April 19 What: The 14th annual Alliance Texas Procurement Fair Where: Globe Life Park When: 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

In a nutshell: The fair will allow small businesses to market their companies to agencies and large businesses that are purchasing. The event features a trade show, one-onone MatchMaking Meetings and structured networking opportunities.

For more: (509) 838-8755

Photo: downtowncajunband.nl

Thanks to all of our many sponsors, donors, guests and volunteers for supporting Boots, Chaps & Cowboy Hats.

See you on the bayou (or some such) THE ANNUAL Big Mamou Cajun Festival will cook up big fun April 1, 2, 8 and 9 at Traders Village in Grand Prairie.

Highlights include toe-tapping Cajun music each day from noon-4 p.m., as well as authentic Cajun foods, dancing and bodacious bargains at Traders Village.

Admission to the Cajun Festival is free, and parking is only $4.

For more: (972) 647-2331

Drs. Alexander Orthodontics Barbara & Ike Bangs Cearnal Co. Carol & Charlie Coleman First Rate, Inc. Frost Bank Jan Gerro Shaela & Steve Gray

Brenda & Don Henderson Johnson Development Corp.-Viridian Mercantile Bank Dr. Phil & Diane Mycoskie Beth & Joe Owens Mary Ann Ricca St. John the Apostle Mission Team Toy & Jim Wooley

Thank you to our Co-Chairs, Meghan Phillips & JoAnna Messimer Cowboys & Cowgirls Photo: Viridian

April 27 What: Artini Hour Where: River Legacy Living Science Center (703 N.W. Green Oaks Blvd.)

When: 6-8 p.m.

In a nutshell: Monthly Artini Hours are a fun way for adults to socialize, enjoy some drinks and create a recycled or upcycled art project. Artini Hours include project instruction, supplies, a specialty drink, wine and light appetizers. Cost is $20 per person. Ages 21 and up only; a driver’s license is required.

For more: riverlegacy.org/event/ artini-hour-2-2-2/2017-04-27

Boots, Chaps & Cowboy Hats Thank you to all of our generous sponsors!

Art & nature come together at Viridian THE VIRIDIAN Artisan Market returns for its second season from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on April 22, and this year the market is being paired with Viridian’s annual Bio Blitz.

Come experience local vendors and learn about the environment. The list of fun events includes bounce houses, face painting, the Not Just Q Food Truck and nature-based learning experiences for the whole family.

For more: viridiandfw.com/ArtisanMarket

Holly Potter-Harvey Terry Brawner Don Henderson Kim Buchmeyer Patrick Johnson Mary Helen Burnett Sarah Jones Mike Colin Doyle Mackey Cherry Christianson PMS 192 and PMS Mackey 3272 Susan Joan Church Susi Mitchell Mary Davis Maggie Mixon Alex DeFreeuw Chris Olson Kathryn Dowd Dara Fulton

Beth Owens Claudia Perkins Gail Smith Jeff Smith Roxanne Thalman Ging-ging Vitek Jennifer Weber Amy Wooley Toy Wooley Kristin Zick

We would also like to extend our gratitude to our emcee Jim Douglas, auctioneers Jim Reeves and Bryan Weatherford, live music by Zach Coffey, the Kuyawa family, graphic design by Dara Fulton, Arlington High School youth volunteers and photography by Karen Featherston.

701 Dugan St., Arlington, Texas 76010 817-861-8585 Provides emergency assistance for utilities and rent for those in crisis in the Arlington community.

arlingtontoday.com • April 2017 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Finish Line

The wedding of Knox Martin and Caroline Vandergriff featured a unique setting, a rehearsal dinner at Globe Life Park and some special members of the wedding party.

A wedding to remember Knox Martin and Caroline Vandergriff exchanged vows between train whistles • By Richard Greene

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ot being familiar with the address where the recent wedding ceremony of Caroline Vandergriff, daughter of our good friends Victor and Kristen, was going to take place, I dutifully entered it in our vehicle’s GPS, confident it would guide us directly to our destination.

It was somewhere near the upscale University Park Village in Fort Worth, so as my wife Sylvia and I worked our way through the shopping area, we anticipated finding a venue where a wedding traditionally would be held.

But then we found ourselves on a narrow rough road approaching a big railroad yard. Slowing to a crawl, I remarked that our navigation system must have failed us and that we were now lost.

A sense of panic set in as we feared we would be embarrassingly late for the event once we discovered our way to the proper destination. Then a building came into view with a big sign on its side that read “MOPAC Event Center.”

Other cars were arriving as a light rain was falling.

We entered the building and found a grassy courtyard covered by a big plastic tent enhanced by a ceiling of hundreds of tiny sparkling lights giving the impression of a starry sky, and an altar under a beautiful arch of flowers next to a small orchestra.

We found our seats among other guests and began to join the conversation with those around us, concluding that this was very different and really, really cool.

The minister soon took her place on the stage, and the wedding party began to make its way down the center aisle. There were six groomsmen, eight attendants of the bride and two flower girls.

And two well groomed dogs. Big ones.

Caroline’s Moxie, a Goldendoodle, and her soon-to-be husband Knox Martin’s Labrador, Mika, were adorned with floral wreaths around their necks and led by the young flower girls right up to the front, where they dutifully and patiently remained throughout the ceremony.

A trio of aunts – Valerie and Vanessa together with sister Katharine – delivered a stunning arrangement of “Hallelujah” adapt82

ARLINGTON TODAY • April 2017 • arlingtontoday.com

ed by Vanessa’s husband Mark with lyrics honoring the couple on this most special of occasions. Other family members and friends participated in parts of the ceremony. Traditional vows were exchanged between train whistles, and then the 250 guests enjoyed dinner and dancing with the newlyweds. It all made for a delightful experience that dominated social media discussion for days afterwards.

Caroline and Knox honeymooned in Thailand where, among other reasons for a visit there, they got to experience visits with the national animal of that country, the Thai Elephant. Current estimates say there are 25,000 of them there. Caroline has always had a passion for elephants, their care, protection and preservation.

The couple resides in Charlotte, N.C., where Caroline is a general assignment reporter and fill-in anchor for Time Warner Cable News and Knox is the head golf professional at the Carolina Golf Club.

He’s also a serious Atlanta Braves fan. Which brings up a bit of an inner family rivalry that Victor addressed from the microphone at the wedding dinner.

“You know,” he said with a bit of a frown looking at his new son-inlaw, “your wife’s grandfather, who brought the Texas Rangers to Arlington, is a deity of sorts around these parts. And, though we accept that you will be wearing your Atlanta Braves jersey and cap, Caroline will be wearing her Texas Rangers gear.”

Caroline and Knox met by happenstance at a restaurant with her arm in a sling when she was recovering from an accident. After almost bumping into her, he asked her out on their first date.

“Kristin didn’t know this guy,” Victor explained, “and Caroline couldn’t drive, so she agreed to his invitation as long as her mother could serve as their chauffeur and chaperone.”

Four years later, we all gathered with them as they became husband and wife in a beautiful and unusual ceremony.

In a Fort Worth railroad yard.

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

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit. 1 Peter 3:18 At WADE FAMILY FUNERAL HOME our family believes while we all will one day lose someone we love, there are no two families, no two funerals exactly alike.

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

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

Our Arlington family is here for you.

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

arlingtontoday.com arlingtontoday.com • January • April 2017 2016 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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