August 2020

your community • your magazine

For 40-plus years, this All Star has helped local customers while supporting the community he loves ... page xx

This All Star is taking extraordinary steps to ensure his patients are protected from exposure to COVID-19 ... page xx

Em estrum est, utaecta erspidem harcid ut ercipsam, et labor solumque exerum re nit ... page xx

I have been on a diet roller coaster all my life causing mostly frustration with very little success.

One day I met Jennifer, the Proprietor of Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers. She was very knowledgeable about weight gain and weight loss, what their program says to eat or not eat and that they don’t want you to be hungry. (Really, not hungry on a diet?) I decided to try again one more time.

Before

I’ve lost 22 lbs in 4 months with 3 more lbs to my goal weight and dropped two dress sizes. My energy level has been amazing! No crashes in the middle of the day or wanting to go to bed way before bedtime.

Mika and Bailey in the Mansfield Office have been very friendly, kind and so encouraging. They give us recipes, info on brand names for sauces, toppings and even have ideas for easy sugar free desserts. They also offer shakes, bars, cookies, chips and other snacks that are made with special ingredients to benefit weight loss.

Kat H.

Midlothian, Texas

Kat’s lost 22.5 lbs in 15 weeks.

I highly recommend Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers if you’re looking for success, support, accountability and a lifestyle to keep the weight off.

After

Fast.

Friendly.

Fair.

AUTO GROUP Here's the deal.

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Thank you for voting.

Dr. Alfred DiStefano All Star Oncologist Winner 2017-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

Dr. DiStefano is a nationally recognized hematologist/oncologist.

Committed to finding a cure for cancer, Dr. DiStefano co-founded the Cancer Research Foundation of North Texas, a non-profit organization dedicated to medical research and education for cancer-related diseases.

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Back in the Saddle Again UT ARLINGTON RETURNS TO CAMPUS

RETURN TO CAMPUS

VIRTUAL EVENTS

s The University of Texas at Arlington welcomes students, faculty, and staff back to campus, safety is our top priority.

Thanks to virtual technology, prospective and new Mavericks

A

The University developed a plan to resume in-person classes and reopen residence halls, dining facilities, and other campus services in a manner consistent with public health guidelines.

can visit campus right from the comfort of their homes.

• MAV ELITE MONDAY is a live chat session and a virtual campus tour with UTA tour guides. Ask about campus life, the best spots to study, where to get a Starbucks fix, and more. August 10 and 24 • TRANSFER TUESDAY focuses on students coming from

These steps include enhanced cleaning and sanitizing practices

two- or four-year institutions. Learn about the transfer

throughout campus facilities, social distancing, face coverings,

admissions process, transferring credits, specialized

physical barriers, hygiene protocols, and more.

resources for transfer students, and other important topics.

Students also have the choice of taking online, in-person, or hybrid classes. These options provide another way for students to advance their educational goals while remaining safe.

Read more about the return to campus and course options on the Mavs Back 2020 website at uta.edu/coronavirus.

August 11 and 25 • FRESHMAN FRIDAY is a virtual event that guides viewers through the admissions process, financial aid, student resources, and so much more. August 7 and 21 • MAV CONNECTION DAY is for future freshman and transfer students to learn more about admissions, financial aid, and student resources and to live chat with UTA representatives. August 18 • UTA STUDENT EXPERIENCE lets high school seniors discover the perks and challenges of college life.

August 26 Admitted students can find more information about their new school through virtual events.

• MAVENTURE is a five-hour, interactive program for new students to experience what it means to be a Maverick.

See website for details and dates.

• NEW MAVERICK ORIENTATION prepares new students for life at UTA. August 18-19 Parents and family members can connect with each other and learn important information through FRIDAY LIVE COFFEE HOURS, hosted by the Parent and Family Center.

August 7, 21 (special audiences), and 24

LEARN MORE AT Admissions: uta.edu/admissions/events

Orientation: uta.edu/student-affairs/orientation

Mavs Back 2020: uta.edu/coronavirus

UTA.EDU

Choose your doctor as wisely as we have. Winner of the 2018-2020 Readers’ Choice All Star Award - Arlington Today Readers

Where caring and compassion meet Our mission is to provide comprehensive treatment of the highest quality for all problems of the ears, nose, throat, head and neck. By incorporating the latest technology, emphasizing thorough patient education and making your individual needs the highest priority, our team of Board Certified ENT specialists and support staff aims to deliver the best patient experience possible.

Central Park has 5 locations around the metroplex and offers the full range of ENT services including allergy testing and treatment, on site CT imaging, balloon sinuplasty, management of sleep apnea, and comprehensive management of hearing and balance disorders including hearing aid sales and servicing. We treat all ages and take most insurance plans.

Winner

Left to right: J. Mark Palmer, M.D., Chris T. Lee, M.D. Stuart N. Thomas, M.D., Rene M. Peña, M.D. Dana B. Gibbs, M.D., Tyler W. Scoresby, M.D.

Three-Time Winner!

All Star Ear/Nose/Throat Practice

2018-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star

Thanks Arlington Today Readers!

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

We are open at our new location in Dallas

3430 W. Wheatland Road, Suite 209 • Dallas, Texas 75237 • 817.261.9191 Arlington Location

Fort Worth Location

409 Central Park Drive • Arlington, Texas 76014 • 817.261.9191

800 Eighth Avenue, Suite 618 • Ft. Worth, Texas 76104 • 817.335.6336

Dallas Location

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All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

CONTENTS August 2020 • Volume 7 • Issue 8

HIGHLIGHTS

Here are the plans for the start of the 2020-2021 school year for AISD and MISD ...

See page 104

DEPARTMENTS Starting Line 12 This ‘n Data 14 • Scene 20 Around Town 22 • Style 94 Bulletin Board 114 • Keen Cuisine 116 Speaking of Sports 118 • Itinerary 120 Finish Line 120

96

100

108

96 A COVID-cation ... Nothing soothes the soul quite like a 2,000-mile road trip to the Majestic Smoky Mountains with the family.

100 Enhancing the free music experience ... The Levitt Pavilion’s new hospitality center will help make Downtown Arlington a prime destination for future events and festivals.

108 The one! ... Vernon Bland recalls the first time as a kid when he discovered the Italian De Tomaso Pantera. The love affair, which has lasted more than 35 years, is still going strong.

ON THE COVER The much-anticipated Readers’ Choice All Star issue is here, featuring Al Clark, Dr. Ravi Doctor and more than 300 other honorees.

Meet your All Stars, beginning on page 26

10

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

112 UTA Today ... Here is an important message from the University of Texas at Arlington’s Interim President, Teik C. Lim.

IN AN EMERGENCY, TRUST METHODIST.

QuickER.org With QuickER.org, Methodist Mansfield Medical Center is not only one of the area’s most convenient ERs, it’s also the best. Voted Honorable Mention for five consecutive years, Methodist Mansfield is proud to be featured in Arlington Today as the Readers’ Choice All Star Hospital in the Arlington area. Trust. Methodist.

HONORABLE MENTION – BEST HOSPITAL

BEST EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

On East Broad Street

between Highways 360 and 287

For life-threatening or severe symptoms, please call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, Methodist Health System, or any of its affiliated hospitals. Methodist Health System complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

• STARTING LINE

EXECUTIVE BOARD Executive Publisher Judy M. Rupay CEO Richard Greene

STAR STRUCK

T

he first Major League All Star Game was played on July 6, 1933 at Chicago’s Comiskey Park (the original one), where the American League defeated the National League 4-2. No, I wasn’t around to witness history in the making. I mean, look at the visage below. That guy couldn’t be much more than 64 years old.

I did take in the game in 1967, however, on a black and white television in a cabin at Lake Murray in Oklahoma, during a family vacation that is peripherally tied to the annals of Arlington. It was there that, as I threw baseball “pop ups” to myself near the lake, the kid in the cabin next to ours asked if he could join me. He told me his name was Ardis Bell. I soon learned his dad was a physician.

I told him I had visited a Dr. Bell once when I had a sore throat a few years earlier, but it couldn’t be the Yale same guy; I lived in North Richland Hills, Texas.

Youngblood Ardis told me he lived in North Richland Hills, Texas. Sure enough, Dr. Bell – of the practice Bell Editor and Jacobson – lived in my hometown. I would learn many years later that Dr. Bell’s partner is the father of Michael Jacobson, President and CEO of the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce.

But it was during that All Star weekend that I learned how small our big world can be.

I suspect that, by now, if you glanced at our cover and then backtracked to this missive after poring over the content on pages 26-92, you know where I’m going here. So I’m going to go there.

THIS IS OUR ALL STAR EDITION, FOLKS! It’s the issue that annually reveals who our much cherished readers deemed as the best of the best – or, at least, as their favorites – in more than 160 categories that by and large define our city. It’s the issue that practically everyone reads, if just to say, “see, I told you that Dr. Kenyon Godwin is a great chiropractor!” It’s the issue prior to which many advertisers break convention and call us, rather than the other way around, because they know that practically everyone will be reading and that a lot of those readers voted for them and they want to say “thank you” for the veneration.

As much as anything, it’s the issue that epitomizes what the Arlington/Mansfield/ Grand Prairie area is all about: Good folks supporting other good folks – and routinely celebrating bonds that transcend an online ballot box and several tens of thousands of words that define a multitude of All Star qualities.

Still, we’re very happy to have created that ballot box and to write those words. This is the seventh time we’ve gotten to do that, and with each passing year, more people virtually race to the former and literally fix eyeballs on the latter. And even if they disagree with some of the choices, they agree that it’s a fun endeavor.

Maybe not as fun as playing catch by the lake with a new friend named Ardis Bell, but pretty darned close.

yale@arlingtontoday.com

Visit arlingtontoday.com, like us on Facebook 12

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

and follow us on Twitter

and Instagram

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

Copyright 2020 Arlington Today, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without permission of the publisher. The inclusion of advertising is considered a service to readers and is not an endorsement of products.

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

ARLINGTON TODAY GIVES BACK Arlington Today magazine proudly sponsors CASA, Dental Health Arlington, the Junior League of Arlington, the Levitt Pavilion, the River Legacy Foundation and Theatre Arlington.

• Phone number: (817) 303-3304

Thank You THANK YOU!

2020 ALL STAR WINNER FOR NEW HOME DEVELOPMENT ARLINGTON/MANSFIELD AREA

Thank you to the people of Arlington/Mansfield for choosing Viridian as your All Star Winner for New Home Development for 2018, 2019 and 2020!

ViridianDFW.com

• THIS ‘N DATA

FIGHTING FIRES, BUILDING BONDS

F

ive Arlington Fire Department members returned home last “These trips are all about helping and keeping our brothers month after answering an international call for help. The and sisters in Mexico safe,” says Arlington Firefighter Javier firefighters traveled to Mexico to donate Benitez. “After our first trip, we came back training time and supplies to departments extremely humbled with a new sense of in need. While Arlington has access to perspective. We realized we can offer the latest fire safety technology, the help to those that don’t have the same same cannot be said for many Mexican resources as we do.” border towns. In fact, equipment Arlington firefighters did more than just commonly retired here is nicer than many donate life-saving supplies. They also shared departments in Mexico have access to. their expertise in various training sessions.

With a goal of saving lives, Arlington Their work did not go unnoticed, earning Arlington firefighters helped organize firefighters joined with other North Texas recognition from Mexican media and the equipment donations for crews in Mexico. departments to gather donations and state of Jalisco’s Red Cross chapter. plan a trip to Mexico. Each firefighter used his own money and “That is what we aim to do, sharing the wealth and knowledge vacation time to make the trip possible. For two members, this with others,” Benitez says. “If we can improve their chances of was their third training visit. going home at the end of their shift, we have done well.”

Photo: billboard.com

Reba McEntire and George Strait

RAISE YOUR HAND if you attended the first event at AT&T Stadium. Put that hand down if you think said occurrence was a sporting endeavor.

In June of 2009, the stadium kicked off with a concert featuring country music superstars George Strait and Reba McEntire, with opening acts Blake Shelton and Lee Ann Womack. Three months later, your Dallas Cowboys played the first regular-season NFL game at the stadium and drew a league-record 105,121 fans to the Cowboys’ 33-31 loss to the New York Giants.

14

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Photo: arlingtontx.gov

Here’s how the Texas Rangers promoted the DoppelRanger fan program.

I WAS AT THE GAME ... SORT OF

W

ith the anticipation of playing games at an empty Globe Life Field for at least the start of the 2020 season, the Texas Rangers created an opportunity for fans to be represented at the games—in a 2D version.

With a DoppelRanger, fans were be able to have their likenesses located in the lower seating bowl areas behind home plate and the dugouts for at least Rangers July games at Globe Life Field. If fans are allowed to attend games later in the season, the DoppelRangers would be moved to other areas in Globe Life Field.

The 2D cardboard images were created from photographs submitted by fans who ordered their “seats” online for $50, with all proceeds benefiting the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation.

Dr. Sheri Puffer

Dr. Joy Carter

Dr. Joan Bergstrom

Dr. Jessica Brown

Dr. Kiran Nangrani

Dr. Dawnette Peppler

Women’s Health Services now provides patient care in two locations in Arlington. We also provide state-of-the-art maternity care in the newly renovated labor and delivery suites at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital (THAM). THAM is ranked among the best hospitals in Dallas-Fort Worth, and was awarded American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet status, an award that recognizes hospitals that provide nursing excellence.

Women’s Health Services has been providing quality health care for women of all ages for the past 32 years. Our OB/GYN group been recognized in the community for its reputable and thoughtful care. In 2017, Women’s Health Services won Suburban Parent Magazines’ award for Best of Family Healthcare in Obstetrics and Gynecology, as well as DFW Child Magazine’s Mom-Approved Doctors award for OB/GYN. Women’s Health Services’ doctors provide full OB/GYN services and are skilled in managing all aspects of women’s health care, such as normal and high-risk pregnancy care, gynecologic surgery, incontinence treatment, annual exams, and contraceptive and hormone therapy needs. Visit our new website and make your appointments online at www.womenshealthservices.com. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Winner 2014-2020 Readers’ Choice

ARLINGTON Today

All Star

2019

ARLINGTON Today

your community • your magazine

EDITOR’S CHOICE

your community • your magazine

North Office:

South Office:

1001 N. Waldrop, Suite 505 Arlington, TX 76012

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

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

www.womenshealthservices.com

Seven-Time Winner!

All Star OB/GYN

• THIS ‘N DATA

Throughout the summer, the University of Texas at Arlington’s Tri-C Food Pantry has provided college students with a mixture of non-perishable foods to supplement their monthly food costs.

The Food Pantry, located at 405 W. 1st Street, is open to any UTA student, faculty or staff member with a UTA I.D. Tri-C Food Pantry accepts donations to help it implement the worthwhile project. Needs for the pantry include canned vegetables, canned tomato sauce/tomatoes, cereal, oatmeal, dry beans, rice, shelf-stable milk and toiletries. The pantry accepts donations between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays at the Tri-C parking lot door.

For more information about the Food Pantry, call The Follett Student Leadership Center at 817-274-0383 or email leadership@uta.edu.

Celebrating Kindness

MANSFIELD APPROVES HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION T

he Mansfield City Council recently approved a 10-percent homestead exemption for homeowners, the first time the city has provided this property tax benefit to residents.

The homestead exemption allows homeowners to save on property taxes by allowing them to exclude a portion of their home’s value from assessment. With a 10-percent homestead exemption for city taxes, Mansfield residents will pay taxes on only 90 percent of the value of their primary residence as assessed by the Tarrant County, Johnson County or Ellis County appraisal districts. A homeowner with property valued at $270,000 (the average for Mansfield) would see the taxable value reduced $27,000 for a property tax savings of $192 annually based on the current tax rate of 71 cents per $100 valuation.

The exemption goes into effect on Oct. 1 and will be reflected in the tax bill homeowners receive this fall. Homeowners can check with their appraisal district to see if their property has already been designated on the tax rolls as their homestead.

Here are the appraisal districts serving the City of Mansfield: Tarrant County (tad.org), Johnson County (JohnsonCad.com) and Ellis County (elliscad.com).

Arlington By the numbers 16

ARLINGTON RATED AS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY A HOME

T

he City of Arlington earned a top 10 spot in SmartAsset’s “Best Cities to Buy an Affordable Home” list for 2020.

In its study, SmartAsset looked at 100 of the largest U.S. cities across seven metrics to identify some of the best cities to buy an affordable family home.

Those metrics included the percentage of homes with at least two bedrooms, the five-year change in homeownership rate, two affordability metrics and three livability statistics.

SmartAsset ranked Arlington the second-best in its top 10 and 15th best overall for its down payment-toincome ratio. That means a 20% down payment on the median valued home in Arlington makes up only 60% of the median household income. The American Dream City also ranked in the top 15 for housing costs as a percentage of income (21.93%) and high school graduation rate (90.50%).

More than a third of cities that ranked in SmartAsset’s top 25 list are located in Texas.

33.1

51%

96

The median age of the citizens of Arlington Source: datausa.io

The percentage of couples married 15 or more years Source: areavibes.com

Most wins in a season (2011) by your Texas Rangers Source: baseball-reference.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

HEARING LOSS AFFECTS More Than Just Your Ears Hearing loss is a serious health issue with implications that go far beyond just communication challenges. If you or a loved one have experienced symptoms of hearing loss, it is important to take action early to avoid a number of potentially debilitating physical, social and emotional health issues linked to hearing loss.

RISK OF DEMENTIA RISK OF DEMENTIA

WITH UNTREATED HEARING LOSS

WITH UNTREATED HEARING LOSS

Melissa Danchak Audiologist

Desi Wood Audiologist

Kos/Danchak Audiology has been Helping North Texans Hear Better Since 1984! Our Audiologists provide superior hearing care with individualized treatment plans.

Winner

2018-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Audiologist

2X

Gina Logi Audiologist

MORE LIKELY

2X

3X

MORE LIKELY

3X

5X

MORE LIKELY

5X

MORE LIKELY MORE LIKELY MORE LIKELY MODERATE SEVERE MILD NORMAL HEARING HEARING HEARING HEARING MODERATE SEVERE MILD LOSS LOSS LOSS NORMAL HEARING HEARING HEARING HEARING SOURCE: LIN ET AL. (2011) COMPARED HEARING, INCREASEDLOSS RISK OF LOSS WITH NORMALLOSS DEMENTIA: 1.89 FOR MILD HEARING LOSS, 3.00 FOR MODERATE HEARING LOSS, AND 4.94 FOR SEVERE HEARING LOSS.

CALL 817-277-7039 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY! 101 West Randol Mill Road, Suite 100, Arlington, TX 76011

www.northtxhearing.com

• THIS ‘N DATA

NEW PRESIDENT DEAKYNE LEADS LOCAL PTA GROUP

T

he Arlington Council of PTAs (Parent Teacher Associations) has announced the board of directors for the 2020-21 year led by President Jeannie Deakyne. Deakyne, a veteran of the United States Army, is the first military veteran to lead the organization as president since its founding in 1954.

Joining Deakyne is joining a team of leaders with a variety of educational and professional backgrounds who share the organization’s commitment to making every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children in the Arlington Independent School District.

They are: Zenova Williams, 1st Vice President Jeannie Deakyne & Aide to the President; Lisa Starr, 2nd Vice President of Programs; Liz Bankhead, 3rd Vice President of Fundraising; Heather Fearing, 4th Vice President of Hospitality; Gara Hill, 5th Vice President of Community Relations; Leanne Haynes, 6th Vice President of Communications; Delilah Crosby, 7th Vice President of Scholarship; Secretary, Heidi Savoie; Lori Turano, Treasurer; and Trinli Milliorn, Parliamentarian.

“The resources provided by our PTAs are important more now than ever before, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic impacts how students learn, interact and grow,” says Deakyne. “July 1 will kick off a focus on helping school communities feel more connected and supported during this time. With a membership of over 8,900 members districtwide, we are committed to engaging with all AISD families, students and campuses - responsively, inclusively and with lasting impact.”

#atpetofthemonth This month’s featured pet is Koda.

Koda loves fetch with an unrelenting passion. He’s the most handsome creature ever. He’s my best friend.

– Mania Behrang

18

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

3

SCOOPS 1. Last month, the Public Works and Transportation Department began construction to improve Calender Road, from Curry Road to Harris Drive. This project aims to rebuild Calender Road from a two-lane county type asphalt road to a three-lane concrete road. It will also feature installation of sidewalks and streetlight improvements, construction of roundabouts at Curry and Kuykendall Road intersections, storm drainage infrastructure improvements, water and sanitary sewer infrastructure improvements and installation of two onstreet bicycle lanes.

2. Arlington is one of eight cities nationwide that have been recognized for achieving 2020 What Works Cities Certification at the gold level. WWC Certification evaluates how effectively cities are managed by measuring the extent to which city leaders incorporate data and evidence in their decisionmaking – whether they have the right people, processes, and policies in place to put data and evidence at the center of decision-making – against a national standard of excellence.

3. The National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation (NMOHMF) last month announced former U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and philanthropist Dawn Arnall as its newest board members. The National Medal of Honor Museum is expected to open in 2024 in Arlington.

Putting your health above it all.

2020 All Star Winner for Hospital/Patient Care At Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital, our mission is to not only improve the health of our patients, but that of our entire community. It’s why our care is more than just advanced, it’s also compassionate. With respect for every person, and a commitment to your well-being in all facets of your life, it’s real care, with real caring. And, as always, we have protocols in place designed around your safety. To learn more, go to TexasHealth.org/WithYou.

Back & Spine Care Digestive Health Services Kidney Health

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Behavioral Health

Emergency Care

Neurosciences & Stroke Care Urology

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Breast Care

ENT

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Cancer Care

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Heart & Vascular Services

Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

Women & Infants Care

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Diabetes Care

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Infectious Disease

Rehabilitation Services

Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine

Texas Health is right there with you. Whatever comes.

1-877-THR-WELL TexasHealth.org/Arlington Doctors on the medical staffs practice independently and are not employees or agents of Texas Health hospitals or Texas Health Resources. © 2020

SCENE Snapshots from a variety of civic, social, benevolent and downright fun activities that recently took place in the Arlington / Mansfield / Grand Prairie area Photo: Southern Flair Photography

Judge Kimberly Fitzpatrick and City officials Cathy Stein, Joe Kohn, Mayor Laurie Bianco, Steve Lafferty, John King, Ed Motley and Guy Snodgrass recently broke ground on the new Dalworthington Gardens City Hall complex.

Photos courtesy of Reba Blevens

Mayor Jeff Williams and his family decorate cookies as part of a “Cook for the Mayor and his Family” initiative instituted by citizens in the Arlington community.

Reba Blevens’ granddaughters strike a fun pose in the yard.

Photos courtesy of Glenda Bell

Dental Health Arlington recently held its first Love That Smile virtual event at the American Airlines CR Smith Museum. The event honored volunteers with the non-profit organization and netted $41,000, which made it the most successful fundraiser in the history of DHA.

Photos courtesy of David L. Cook

Photos: The City of Arlington

During a one-day, drive-thru event last month, The City of Arlington distributed 275,000 protective face masks to the public for free. It was the third mask giveaway organized by the City since May as part of ongoing efforts to fight the spread of COVID-19 and to help the economy recover. Boxes of 50 masks, provided by Tarrant County, were handed out on a first-come, first-serve basis over a five-hour period in the parking lot of AISD’s Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center.

20

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Photos: The City of Arlington

Last month, Lowe’s Home Improvement provided personal protective equipment, including gloves and masks, to members of the Arlington Black Chamber of Commerce.

Photos: City of Arlington

Arlington Independent School District’s Dan Dipert Career and Technical Agricultural Science Center students participated in Cow Appreciation Day last month.

Jered and Casi Kriewall of YourTees created “We are all in this together #ArlingtonStrong” T-shirts and yard signs and donated 50 percent of the profits on sales to Arlington Urban Ministries to help local families affected by the pandemic.

The City of Grand Prairie’s “Doo the Right Thing” project encouraged pet owners to clean up after their animals – and to send in photos of their pets. This one is a favorite, for sure.

For more great SCENE shots, visit arlingtontoday.com Photos: City of Arlington

A highlight every week for young Arlington resident Beckham is greeting crews from Republic Services as they make their rounds. Last month, they let Beckham assist them and paid him for his help.

Photo courtesy of Victoria Farrar-Myers

City Council member Victoria Farrar-Myers was recently named Rotarian of the Year by the Downtown Rotary Club of Arlington. arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

21

• AROUND TOWN

Mike Rhyner, who started the radio station “The Ticket” more than 25 years ago, goes over notes about his life and career with Crystal Vasquez, who is preparing a documentary on the colorful UTA alumnus.

THE TALE OF THE TALE OF ‘THE TICKET’

W

e’re all eager to know what Mike Rhyner is going to do now that he is no longer a daily mouthpiece on the sports radio yak fest The Ticket, which in itself is a bit titillating seeing that Rhyner doesn’t know either. He says he’ll tell us when he tells himself, and who knows when that will be.

Tomorrow? Next month? Year? Ever? But that’s typical Rhyner, right, the guy whose view strays so far outside the box it’s almost an insult to say his thought process is in any way similar to folks like you and me.

I got a sense of that while listening to his radio banter over the years and again the other day while speaking with him by phone, and once again when Crystal Vasquez brought me up to speed on her documentary about the Kenneth UTA alumnus. Vasquez, Perkins who grew up in Arlington, began the documentary after having digested all things Rhyner and talking to pretty much everyone who had circled or are still circling his orbit. In the doc’s trailer you can catch longtime sports voice Brad Sham saying of Rhyner, “I don’t think there’s ever been anyone in the market, in sports radio, ever, who has had the impact that Mike has had because he completely understood the medium, his audience, and how to put them together.”

The Ticket in its infancy was indeed a way station of sports tête-à-tête, and Sham was right about Rhyner’s uncanny way of stretching a medium by combining Barber Shop banter with sports and virile philosophical ethos.

Vasquez’s challenge: how do you capture that on film?

First, she was quick to share the story of meeting Rhyner, and on his turf, no less, which is a little like staring down a lion in a wideopen field – nowhere to run or hide.

“Quite frankly,” Vasquez tells me, “he scared the hell out of me.”

Vasquez, who had worked as a sports reporter with Fox 4 after

Photo courtesy of Crystal Vasquez

graduating from the University of North Texas, was doing fill-in traffic work for The Ticket when Rhyner walked in. “Hello,” he growled. “Who are you?” Vasquez doesn’t remember much after that. Except, “I wanted to get out of that room as soon as possible.”

Rhyner was known for his cantankerous nature, a straightshooter who even then reminded you of someone who didn’t give a . . . – for the most part, he didn’t, and it’s clear that is one superpower he has over everyone else.

So it was when Vasquez heard about Rhyner’s retirement, in January, that she quickly met with him in early March to discuss his interest. As Rhyner heard her spiel, his first thought was: “Really? You want to do a documentary? On me?”

“My whole idea was that this would be viewed by most as another radio hack walking away from the gig,” Rhyner says. “It might have a life of, maybe 12 to 24 hours in the news cycle. I just didn’t think it would be much a of a big deal to anyone.”

Rhyner knew he’d have to talk about life beyond radio – his life growing up in Oak Cliff, for example. Vasquez accompanied Rhyner to his old stumping grounds, which brought up all sorts of memories. “That’s the idea,” Vasquez says. “We want to see who Mike Rhyner really is.”

Now we’ll get to see who Crystal Vasquez is, too. We ought to point out that her dad “wanted a little boy,” so her early years were spent watching sports, mainly the Chicago Bulls, Orlando Magic, the 49ers and Cowboys. “I was living on the wrong side of the country,” she says of when her military dad was stationed in the Bay Area. “My dad was a big Cowboys fan. I was a Cowboys fan by product of my allegiance to him.”

They settled in Arlington when dad was stationed in Fort Worth. Much like Rhyner, she’s something of a risk taker.

“I just respected the way he went against the status quo,” says Vasquez, whose next step in the process is finding a distribution partner for the documentary. “He did things the market had never seen. He just went in and said, well, if it fails, it fails, but I’m going to do what I think will not fail.”

Same mindset for Vasquez, which explains why she and Rhyner hit it off.

“I’ve seen her in action and she works her (butt) off,” Rhyner says. “She’s good and driven, and I’m just impressed with how she’s taken on this with both feet in. I like that.”

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

22

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

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Theannual 6th annual Back to School Kickoff will be a drive-thru this year The 6th Back to School Kickoff will be a drive-thru eventevent this year to ensure the safety of guests, volunteers and staff. to ensure the safety of guests, volunteers and staff.

Register to attend theannual 6th annual Arlington ISD to Back to School Kickoff at aisd.net/kickoff Register to attend the 6th Arlington ISD Back School Kickoff at aisd.net/kickoff

to our additional sponsors: SpecialSpecial thanks thanks to our additional sponsors:

Our founding partners: Our founding partners:

Churches of Arlington League of ArlingtonNAACP NAACP Churches of Arlington JuniorJunior League of Arlington

Rush Creek Rush Creek Sorority Alpha Alpha KappaKappa Alpha Alpha Sorority First Baptist Arlington First Baptist ChurchChurch Arlington Methodist TrinityTrinity UnitedUnited Methodist Salvation Army Youth Education Salvation Army Youth Education Town Town

ARLINGTON ARLINGTON

ENROLLMENT ENROLLMENT

Applications Applications

It’s to time to register your student for the It’s time register your student for the 2020-21 school year.can Youfind canout findeverything out everything 2020-21 school year. You you need to know at aisd.net/returntoschool . you need to know at aisd.net/returntoschool .

Applications for Arlingotn ISDand free and Applications for Arlingotn ISD free reduced-price for the reduced-price mealsmeals for the 2020-2021 school year are available 2020-2021 school year are available at www.schoollunchapp.com.

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If you need assistance in completing you need assistance in completing the the application, please onlineonline application, please call call 682-867-7880. completing an 682-867-7880.

WhileWhile completing an application is quick, easythe and the application onlineonline is quick, easy and fastest way to determine meal benefits, fastest way to determine meal benefits, applications are available at paperpaper applications are available at Arlington ISD Food and Nutrition Arlington ISD Food and Nutrition Services located at W. 5618 W. Services OfficeOffice located at 5618 Arkansas Arlington, TX 76016.

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Beth Anderson, the school Beth Anderson, the school namesake of Anderson namesake of Anderson Elementary School, Elementary School, passed July 12. passed away away July 12.

Anderson a devoted Anderson was awas devoted teacher throughout teacher throughout her her at Southside, years years at Southside, SpeerSpeer and Berry Elementary and Berry Elementary Schools.

Our condolences Schools.

Our condolences gotoout toAnderson’s Mrs. Anderson’s go out Mrs. and friends.

She will familyfamily and friends.

She will be deeply missed. be deeply missed.

MEMORIAM MEMORIAM AWARDS AWARDS The Arlington ISDawarded was awarded a $60,000 emergency from the NoHungry Kid Hungry program.

The Arlington ISD was a $60,000 emergency grant grant from the No Kid program.

The grant money will be as used asof part the feeding program the district The grant money will be used part theof feeding program the district has has to provide approximately 29,000 daily the district.

The Arlington to provide approximately 29,000 mealsmeals daily in thein district.

The Arlington ISD currently has 20 locations used for student-meal pickups asas well ISD currently has 20 locations used for student-meal pickups as well sixas six high schools that serve The grant was funded the Albertsons high schools that serve mealsmeals daily. daily.

The grant was funded by theby Albertsons Companies Foundation.

Companies Foundation.

2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

And the All Star Awards go to ...

Earlier this year, our readers went to the polls at arlingtontoday.com to cast votes for their favorites in more than 160 categories. Here are the selections, your 2020 Arlington Area All Stars. (key: W-winner; HM-honorable mention)

EATS/DRINKS/MERRIMENT ASIAN CUISINE W: Jade Cafe HM: BFF Asian Grill and Sports Bar BAKERY W: Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery HM: Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop BBQ W: David’s Barbecue HM: Hurtado Barbecue Co.

PLACE FOR LUNCH W: restaurant506 at The Sanford House HM: The Rose Garden Tea Room at Gracie Lane RESTAURANT PATIO W: El Arroyo HM: The Tipsy Oak SEAFOOD W: Mac’s Bar & Grill HM: The Catch

BREWERY W: Legal Draft Beer Co. HM: Division Brewing

SPORTS BAR W: J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill HM: No Frills Grill & Sports Bar

BURGER W: The Grease Monkey HM: Twisted Root Burger Co.

STEAKHOUSE W: Mercury Chop House HM: Candlelight Inn

CRAFT BEER W: Legal Draft Beer Co. HM: Division Brewing

SUSHI W: Piranha Killer Sushi HM: Sushi Cafe

DELI/SANDWICH SHOP W: Dino’s Subs HM: MaryLou’s Coffee and Sandwich Shoppe

TACOS W: Fuzzy’s Taco Shop HM: Torchy’s Tacos

HAPPY HOUR W: The Tipsy Oak HM: Mac’s Bar & Grill

TEX-MEX W: El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill HM: El Arroyo HM: Lupe’s Tex Mex Grill

INTERNATIONAL CUISINE W: Prince Lebanese Grill HM: Fattoush Mediterranean Kitchen HM: Istanbul Grill

WINE BAR W: Urban Alchemy Coffee + Wine Bar HM: Mercury Chophouse

ITALIAN CUISINE W: Piccolo Mondo HM: Café Sicilia

HOME LIFE

NIGHTTIME ENTERTAINMENT W: Texas Live!

HM: Arlington Music Hall PIZZA W: Moni’s Pasta and Pizza HM: Gino’s East

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ASSISTED LIVING W: Cedar Bluff HM: Legend of Mansfield ATTORNEY W: Harris Cook, LLP HM: Jim Ross Law Group ATTORNEY CRIMINAL DEFENSE W: Jim Ross Law Group

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

ATTORNEY - DIVORCE W: Stephanie A. Foster HM: Harris Cook, LLP

CREDIT UNION W: Texas Trust Credit Union HM: EECU

ATTORNEY - ELDER LAW W: Karen Schroeder HM: Carolyn Dove

COMPUTER SERVICES W: Harden Computer HM: Bit by Bit

ATTORNEY - FAMILY LAW W: Donna J. Smiedt HM: Curnutt & Hafer

CPA/TAX PREP W (tie): PSK W (tie): Parker & Richardson HM: Robert Brackeen

ATTORNEY LITIGATION /BUSINESS W (tie): Jim Ross Law Group W (tie): Curnutt & Hafer ATTORNEY PERSONAL INJURY W: Roger “Rocky” Walton HM: Harris Cook, LLP ATTORNEY - REAL ESTATE W: Jim Ross Law Group HM: Harris Cook, LLP AUTO DEALER W: Don Davis Auto Group HM: Classic Arlington

CUSTOMER SERVICE W: Wade Funeral Home & Crematory W: Maggie & Me Boutique DAY CARE W: Primrose Schools HM: Bowen Road Day School DRY CLEANER W (tie): Comet Cleaners W (tie): Oak Cleaners HM: Bond Cleaners ELECTRICIAN W: Milestone Electric HM: Enoch Electric

AUTO DEALER LUXURY CARS W: BMW of Arlington HM: Park Place

FINANCIAL SERVICES W: Derrick Kinney & Associates HM: Schulz Wealth

AUTO REPAIR W: T&T Brake Service HM: Chambers Automotive

FOUNDATION REPAIR W: Atlas Restoration HM: Integrity Foundation Repair

BACKYARD REMODELER W: Baldi Gardens HM: David Durham Contractors

GARDEN CENTER W: Green’s Produce & Plants HM: Hare’s Nursery

BANK W: Frost Bank HM: Affiliated Bank

HEATING / AC COMPANY W: Tom’s Mechanical W: Climate Experts HM: Hightower Service, Inc.

BANK - CUSTOMER SERVICE W: Worthington National Bank HM: Frost Bank BANK - LOCAL BANK W: Worthington National Bank HM: Pinnacle Bank

HOME BUILDER W: Mansfield Custom Homes HM: D.R. Horton INSURANCE AGENT W: Shane Ferrell HM: Becky McKnight HM: Jerry Albano

INSURANCE - HOME / AUTO W: Al Clark State Farm HM: Texas Insurance Agency INTERIOR DESIGNER W: Designs by Lisa HM: Molly Davis Design LANDSCAPER W: Baldi Gardens HM: Price Right Tree & Landscaping MAID / HOME ORGANIZATION W: The Organized Frog HM: Merry Maid MORTGAGE COMPANY W: SWBC Mortgage Corp.

HM: Wallick & Volk NEW HOME DEVELOPMENT W: Viridian HM: South Pointe PEST CONTROL W: Massey Services HM: Finley Termite & Pest Control PATIO FURNITURE W: Chair King Backyard Store HM: The Backyard Store

PROPERTY MANAGER W: 72sold / Brawn Sterling Real Estate HM: Doskocil Properties

FLORIST W: Urban Country Flower Co. HM: H.E. Cannon Floral & Greenhouses

COSMETIC SURGERY W: Paragon Plastic Surgery & Med Spa HM: Accent on You

REAL ESTATE COMPANY W: Ebby Halliday REALTORS ® HM: FRONT Real Estate Co. HM: Keller Williams

FLOORING STORE W: Hiltons Flooring HM: GED’s Floor Store

COUNSELING CENTER W: Impact Counseling & Guidance Center HM: Dr. Troy Callaway

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL W: Linda Magazzine/Michael Cunnigham Group HM: Amy Cearnal HM: Brandee Kelley REMODELER W: R J Construction HM: David Durham Contractors RETIREMENT COMMUNITY W: The Orchards HM: Overture Highlands HM: Fox Run Estates ROOFING W (tie): Frazier Roofs & Gutters W (tie): R J Construction HM: Joe Hall Roofing

PET BOARDING W: Pet Resort in the Gardens HM: Pixie’s Paws Pet Palace

TITLE COMPANY W: Alamo Title Co. - Chris Harris & Associates HM: Old Republic National Title Insurance Co. HM: Stewart Title Company

PET CARE / GROOMING W: Pet Resort in the Gardens HM: Gully Animal Hospital

TRAVEL AGENCY W: Primo Travel Services HM: DFW Cruises and Travel

PET TRAINING W: Lisa’s K-9 Kids HM: Country Acres Kennels

TUTORING COMPANY W: Porter Tutoring HM: Kumon Arlington SE

PHOTOGRAPHER W: Major Images HM: Southern Flair Photography

VETERINARIAN W: Richter Animal Hospital & Pet Resort HM: Sanford Oaks Animal Clinic

FURNITURE STORE W (tie): Canales Furniture Store W (tie): Ivan Smith Furniture HM: Haverty’s

DERMATOLOGIST W: Dr. Mary Adams HM: Dr. Angela Moore

GIFT SHOP W: Anything Goes HM: Gracie Lane

DIALYSIS CENTER W: Green Oaks Dialysis Center HM: U.S. Renal Care - Mansfield

JEWELER W: Dixie’s Charms & More HM: Diamonds & Designs

EAR / NOSE/ THROAT W: Central Park ENT HM: North Hills ENT

PLACE TO BUY “SPIRITS” W: Total Wine & More HM: SPEC’S

EMERGENCY ROOM W: Mansfield Methodist Medical Center HM: Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital

RESALE SHOP W: Nu2u Resale HM: ReRun Consignment Boutique SPORTING GOODS W: The Runner Shop HM: Trek Bicycle Shop

WELLNESS

PLUMBING COMPANY W: Tom’s Plumbing, Inc. HM: Jim Williams Plumbing POOL BUILDER/RENOVATION W: Kelly’s Pool Care & Renovation HM: D & L Pools POOL SERVICE W: Kelly’s Pool Care & Renovation HM: D & L Pools PRESCHOOL / PRE-K W: Pantego Christian Academy HM: Primrose Schools PRIVATE SCHOOL W: Pantego Christian Academy HM: The Oakridge School

STORE FRONT ANTIQUES W: C&W Antiques HM: Cooper Street Antique Mall APPLIANCE STORE W: Texas Appliance BABY / CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE W: Maggie & Me Boutique BOUTIQUE W: Gracie Lane HM: Jazzy Jems

AUDIOLOGIST W: Kos / Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids HM: North Hills ENT BARIATRIC SURGEON W: Dr. Clayton Frenzel with BodEvolve HM: Dr. Richard Carter BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE W: Dr. Mark Bishara HM: Institute of Hormonal Balance CARDIO SURGEON W: Dr. Stephen Lenhoff HM: Cardiology Partners CHIROPRACTOR W: Dr. Kenyon Godwin HM: Tricare Chiropractic COLORECTAL SURGEON W: Dr. Winston Chan HM: Dr. Anna Toker COSMETIC DENTIST W: Dr. Ravi Doctor HM: Dr. Heather Martinson

ENDODONTIST W: Pecan Park Dental HM: Arlington Family Dental Care EXERCISE/FITNESS STUDIO W: The Pilates Effect FAMILY DENTIST W (tie): Dr. Amy Schoening W (tie): Dr. Nathan Flesher HM: Dr. Mark Marchbanks FAMILY PHYSICIAN W: Dr. An Wong HM: Dr. David Lee FAMILY PHYSICIAN PRACTICE W: Family HealthCare Associates HM: Arlington Family Practice FERTILITY SPECIALIST W: IVFMD HM: Omega OB/GYN Associates GASTROENTEROLOGIST W: Dr. Kim Gentry HM: Dr. Winston Chan HEALTH FOOD STORE W: Eterna Health Food Store HM: Pantego Health & Vitamins HOLISTIC MEDICINE W: Active Family Wellness Center HM: Arlington Holistic Health

arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

27

HOME HEALTH CARE W: My Nurse Family HM: Visiting Angels

ORTHOPEDIC CARE W: Baylor, Scott & White Orthopedic & Spine Hospital

UROLOGIST W: Dr. James Vestal HM: Dr. Steven Hudak

LASER HAIR REMOVAL W: Bex Laser Aesthetics HM: Accent on You

HORMONAL SPECIALIST W: Dr. Gary Donovitz (Institute for Hormonal Balance) HM: Dr. Carol Wood

ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON W: Dr. Jay Pond HM: Dr. Jason Lowry

VEIN DOCTOR W: Dr. Jon Senkowsky (Arlington Vein Spa) HM: Dr. Thomas Eidson (Atlas Vein Care)

LOCAL PARK W: River Legacy HM: Stovall

HOSPITAL W: Medical City Arlington HM: Mansfield Methodist Medical Center

PAIN MANAGEMENT W: Dr. Jason Butler (Regency Pain & Therapy Institute) HM: Active Family Wellness Center

HOSPITAL - PATIENT CARE W: Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital HM: Baylor Scott & White Rehabilitation

PEDIATRIC DENTIST W: FunDentist-Pediatric DentistryDrs. Hyde, Miller & Associates HM: Dr. Jennifer Ketchel, DDS, MS, PA

INTERNAL MEDICINE W: Dr. Theresa Stretch HM: Dr. Craig Henry

PERSONAL TRAINER W: Caine Cambron

LASIK W: Key-Whitman Eye Center HM: Kleiman Evangelista Eye Centers of Texas MEDICAL BILLING COMPANY W: Precise Medical Billing Service HM: TPMC Billing Services MEMORY CARE W: Cedar Bluff Assisted Living & Memory Care HM: Meadowbrook NEUROLOGIST W: Dr. Robert E. McMichael HM: Dr. Huy Nguyen NEUROSURGEON W: Dr. Sabatino Bianco HM: Dr. Richard Meyrat OB/GYN W: Dr. Joan Bergstrom HM: Omega OB/GYN ONCOLOGIST W: Dr. Alfred DiStefano, Texas Oncology HM: Dr. Alex Liao

PHARMACY W: Randol Mill Pharmacy HM: Matlock Pharmacy PLASTIC SURGEON W: Accent on You PODIATRIST W: Arlington / Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers HM: Accent Podiatry Associates PSYCHIATRIST W: MHMR Tarrant County HM: Dallas Behavioral Healthcare PSYCHOLOGIST W: Mansfield Counseling HM: Cuppett Psychology PLLC PULMONOLOGIST W: Dr. Tony Su HM: Dr. John Liu REHABILITATON HOSPITAL W: Texas Rehabilitation Hospital of Arlington HM: Baylor Scott & White Rehab REJUVENATOR W: Resurgence Wellness

OPHTHALMOLOGIST W: Dr. D. Todd Ford (Paragon Eye Associates) HM: Dr. Huy Tran

RHEUMATOLOGIST W: Dr. James Durand HM: Dr. Joanna Geslani

ORAL SURGEON W: Dr. John Shroyer HM: Arlington Texas Oral Surgery

SLEEP STUDY/DOCTOR W: The Arlington Sleep Disorder Center HM: Crosspointe Sleep Solutions

ORTHODONTIST W: Dr. Moody Alexander HM: Hildebrand Orthodontics

URGENT CARE W: MedExpress HM: CareNow

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM W: Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers HM: Resurgence Wellness WELLNESS CENTER W: Active Family Wellness Center HM: Mansfield Wellness Center YOGA/BARRE STUDIO W: The Pilates Effect HM: Yoga Project

PERSONAL SERVICES/ LEISURE BED & BREAKFAST W: The Sanford House HM: The Thornton Inn BOTOX W: The Paragon Plastic Surgery & Med Spa HM: Bex Laser Aesthetics DANCE STUDIO W: Miss Persis Studio of Dance HM: Art Ballet Academy EVENT VENUE W: The Sanford House FITNESS CENTER W: Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA HM: TexasFITT GOLF COURSE W: Tierra Verde HM: Texas Rangers Golf Course GYMNASTICS W: ASI HM: Aerials School of Gymnastics HAIR SALON W: Shelton’s Salon & Spa HM: Daired’s Salon & Spa Pangéa HOTEL W: Live! by Loew’s HM: Sheraton Arlington

MASSAGE W: The Sanford Spa & Salon HM: Massage Envy MED SPA W: The Paragon Plastic Surgery & Med Spa HM: Bex Laser Aesthetics NAIL SALON W: Queen’s Nails HM: Star Nails OUTDOOR FESTIVAL W: Art on the Greene HM: River Legacy Fall Festival PLACE FOR A KID’S PARTY W: River Legacy Living Science Center HM: Chelsea’s Tea Room & Boutique PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC W: Levitt Pavilion HM: The Grease Monkey PLACE TO VOLUNTEER W: Mission Arlington / Metroplex HM: Urban Ministries PLACE TO WORSHIP W: First Baptist Arlington HM: First United Methodist Church of Arlington SKIN CARE W: Great Skin Spa & Facial Club HM: Shelton’s Salon & Spa SPA W: The Sanford Spa & Salon HM: Daired’s Salon & Spa Pangéa SUMMER CAMP W: Camp Thurman HM: Camp Anothen

When it comes to your family and your finances,

EXPERIENCE MATTERS. onna . iedt and her tea of fine Lawyers have almost a half a century of cumulative experience as dedicated family law practitioners. onna . iedt is Board ertified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal eciali ation and has been so certified for 26 years.

Donna J. Smiedt has been practicing family law for 32 years in the DFW area.

Both Donna J. Smiedt and Desaray R. Muma are collaboratively trained to provide clients with a private form of dispute resolution to avoid litigation.

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ARLINGTON Today

- Arlington Today Readers

Readers’ Choice

your community • your magazine

817-572-9900 • arlingtondivorces.com This is Arlington's full service family law firm.

All Stars: On the Cover

Al Clark started his insurance agency in 1979 with one other employee.

Forty-plus years later, the company is thriving, serving its community with an array of insurance and financial services that have garnered Clark and his team a number of awards.

Photo: Southern Flair Photography

Al Clark Winner: Insurance - Home/Auto

A

s an iconic symbol of the American Dream – and as a great guy, to boot – Al Clark has been helping Arlington area customers with their insurance needs for more than four decades.

This year, he’s doing something else of significant importance: He is making his fourth straight appearance on our Readers’ Choice All Star team.

The Al Clark State Farm Agency was established on September 1, 1979.

“As a new resident to Texas, I started from scratch with one part-time employee to help me build my agency,” Clark recalls.

“Forty-plus years later of consistently providing insurance and financial services to the people in the DFW area, the Al Clark Agency has been recognized by State Farm and the Arlington community with numerous awards and recognition for our outstanding service to our customers and to the community.”

The accolades include the following: Arlington Small Business Leader of the Year; 19 times the leading State Farm producing agency in the United States out of 19,000 agencies and Texas Congress of Teachers and Parents recognition.

In addition to the awards, Clark has given back to the community, financially supporting the Boys and Girls Clubs of

Al Clark State Farm Agency 30

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2019 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Greater Tarrant County, The Salvation Army, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, The Arlington Rotary Foundation scholarship program, the YMCA and The Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts.

“Having earned a Doctoral degree from the University of Minnesota, I have always considered education as a major emphasis of support,” Clark says. “I have been honored to financially provide backing for many educational venues, including UTA, Tarrant County College, Baylor University, the University of Minnesota, Bemidji State University, along with local elementary, junior high and high schools in Arlington. Most people probably do not know that I was a teacher, coach, advisor, and administrator in public education for 15 years in Minnesota.”

Clark and his current team offer an array of insurance products that include coverage of auto, home, property, business, life, health as well as various financial products.

Clark notes that throughout the past four-plus decades he has been blessed with excellent employees who have helped provide professional service and advice to their clients.

“What I think makes our company special,” he says, “is that we truly believe, live and demonstrate our professional values of helping people every day in every way we can through both our business practices and our involvement in the community.”

2452 W. Interstate 20 • 817-468-3033 • Al@AlClark.net

A Whole New Way of Living

BRAND NEW, ACTIVE ADULT LIVING •

ONE AND TWO BEDROOM RESIDENCES We’d love to show you what we have to offer!

Call to schedule a tour.

817.472.9556 LiveTheOrchards.com

131 E. Bardin Road • Arlington, TX 76018

When you’re ready, we’re OPEN!

All Stars: On the Cover

Ravi Doctor, DDS, DABOI, DICOI Winner: Cosmetic Dentist

D

r. Ravi Doctor and his highly skilled team are committed to taking dentistry to the next level, providing patients of all ages with the world-class care they deserve. No where is that more evident than during recent months as our team addresses COVID-19.

While many dentists often do what they’ve always done, we have stepped it up big time!

We have installed UV sterilizers for our main AC units that circulate in our whole office. Aerosol reduction vacuums are installed above each treatment room above the patient’s mouth and specialized face masks with direct delivery of fresh air have been installed for our whole team. Also, each treatment room has its own UV air purifiers, plus another UV Plasma vacuum system is used – that’s right two vacuums for each patient.

We have an in-office protocol that follows beyond the CDC recommendations for your visit.

Ensuring the safety of our patients and our team underscores our mission at the practice. For more than three decades we have provided top-tier dental services, education and innovative care for the entire family. Our philosophy is The Golden Rule. This has always been the foundation for success within our practice. We treat patients as we would want to be treated.

Photo: Hasson Diggs

ABOUT DR. RAVI DOCTOR AND HIS TEAM Dr. Doctor is the only Board Certified Oral Implantologist in Arlington and Southlake. The practice has a highly trained staff for simple procedures such as dental cleanings and fillings, to complex surgical procedures, such as sinus lifts and implant placement. They also assist in teaching other surgeons from around the world on how to master their craft.

At his general, cosmetic and implant dentistry practice, Dr. Doctor offers a range of services, from oral cancer screenings and root canal therapy to advanced cosmetic dentistry and digitally guided implant surgery.

Dr. Doctor is an Accredited Diplomate with the American Board of Oral Implantology, International Congress of Oral Implantologists and serves as an implant instructor for the California Implant Institute, the Implant Know-How Course and Dental XP Live Surgical Courses.

Dr. Doctor doesn’t just offer leading-edge technology at his dental office – he also provides highly advanced techniques such as Pinhole Surgical Technique, (that only 1,500 dentists are trained to perform), which eliminates the use of traditional scalpels and sutures when treating the common problem of gum recession. He also has implemented the newest advanced CT scan system to better examine airways, provide a more comprehensive orthodontic evaluation and to be utilized for guided implant placement.

Ravi Doctor, DDS, DABOI, DICOI 32

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Photo: Hasson Diggs

As COVID-19 continues to be a health threat, Ravi Doctor is taking extraordinary measures at his practice, such as utilizing UV sterilizers, air purifiers and a plasma vacuum system to ensure the safety of his patients and staff. His quest to be cutting-edge also includes recent implementation of the newest PreXion advanced CT system to better examine airways, provide a more comprehensive orthodontic evaluation and to be utilized for guided implant placement.

1810 S Bowen Road, Suite A • 817-985-4420 • docddsarlington.com

Thank you for making us .

Voted Best Orthopedic Hospital by the readers of Arlington Today.

Winning awards is nice, but winning over our patients is even better. For a physician referral or more information, visit us at BSWArlington.com today.

Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2020 Baylor Scott & White Health.

Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington is a hospital in which physicians have an ownership or an investment interest. The list of physician owners or investors is available upon request. We are fully licensed by the state of Texas and Medicare certified. Our facility is also accredited by The Joint Commission. We are an affiliate of United Surgical Partners International, and partnered with local physicians. Physicians are members of the medical staff and are neither employees nor agents of Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington, United Surgical Partners International, Baylor Scott & White Health, or any of their subsidiaries or affiliates. Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. BSWOSH_2020_ArlToday_BR

All Stars: Eats / Drinks / Merriment

El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill

Dino’s Subs

Winner: Tex-Mex

Winner: Deli / Sandwich Shop

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F

l Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill offers exquisite cuisine, a notion not lost on our patron/readers, who have voted the restaurant to the All Star team for the third consecutive year.

Guests can dine inside or on the popular patio – or they can enjoy take-out service or have a lunch or dinner meal catered. In each case, they will enjoy a wide array of delicious Tex-Mex options.

The restaurant also is known throughout the Metroplex for its beverage menu, including a vast selection of tasty wines.

Then there’s the eclectic decor, marked by a collection of John Wayne memorabilia scattered throughout the eatery.

General Manager David Govea believes there’s always a good time in store when guests pay a visit: “Our personalized service, fresh food and friendly staff help set us apart as special.”

El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill

Dino’s Subs

2408 W. Abram St. • 817-276-8160 • facebook.com/elgabachotexmex

2221 S. Collins St. • 817-274-1140 • dinossubs.restaurantwebexpert.com

J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill Winner: Sports Bar

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or the past four decades, J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill has been one of Arlington’s premier destinations for culinary and social pleasures.

In fact, it’s so popular that our readers have tabbed it as an All Star for the fifth consecutive year.

There’s always a game or several on the televisions scattered inside and out on the patio, where dining and cheering for your favorite team aren’t optional; they’re virtually required.

However, as patrons know, the fabled restaurant is much more than just a sports bar.

It’s also a great venue for a casual lunch or dinner date, as well as party headquarters for gatherings that include reunions, birthdays, charity functions, political events, holiday parties, youth sports clubs, wedding events, business lunches and meetings and ...

Well ...

We’ll put it this way: You can, probably will and definitely should meet at J. Gilligan’s for pretty much anything.

34

or the fifth year in a row, local fans of the sub sandwich have made Dino’s Subs their choice for favorite Deli / Sandwich Shop. Dino’s has been an Arlington institution and the “go to” place for sandwiches since 1980, when the late Larry Dino first opened the restaurant’s doors.

Since then, his daughter Jade has stepped into the lead role at the eatery, and it has continued to make sandwiches so fresh and delicious that they prompted one customer to offer this Yelp review: “Don’t come here. You’re just going to make the line out the door that much longer. I’ll still be in that line most days because this is the best sandwich shop I’ve ever been to.”

A Facebook friend added this: “Dino’s is just like home! I love them and travel in from Tyler just to pick up sandwiches.”

Jade says she is proud to carry on an Arlington tradition. “My dad said there’s one key to success in the restaurant business: ‘never, ever, go down on quality,” she says.

That, obviously, is never an issue at Dino’s Subs.

MaryLou’s Coffee and Sandwich Shoppe Honorable Mention: Deli / Sandwich Shop

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aryLou’s Coffee and Sandwich Shoppe, making its second consecutive appearance on our All Star team, is located in the heart of Downtown Historic Mansfield on Broad Street between Walnut Creek and Main Street.

The restaurant and coffee shop operates out of the J.H. Harrison historic home built in 1915. MaryLou’s offers a unique experience and ambiance not found in new construction buildings.

Guests can enjoy the comfort of the indoor seating spaces or sit outside on the shaded, wrap-around porch and take in the peaceful atmosphere while having breakfast, lunch and/or a cup of their specialty coffees with housemade syrups. MaryLou’s uses the freshest ingredients to prepare your meal and family recipes for their chicken salad, tuna salad, pimento cheese and homemade desserts.

J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill

MaryLou’s Coffee and Sandwich Shoppe

400 E. Abram St. • 817-274-8561 • jgilligans.com

404 E. Broad Street • 817-473-1989 • marylous.net

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2019 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Roger “Rocky” Walton, P.C. Board Certified Specialist Since 1994, Personal Injury Trial Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization Fewer than 3% of Texas lawyers have this certification.

Wrongful Death and Serious Injury 2310 W. Interstate 20, Suite 200 • Arlington, Tx 76017 • 817-429-4299

INFO: katic@rockywalton.com • www.rockywaltoninjurylawyers.com

All Stars: Eats / Drinks / Merriment

David’s Barbecue

Prince Lebanese Grill

Winner: BBQ

Winner: International Cuisine

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P

here’s little question David’s Barbecue has found its way into the hearts – and, certainly, tummies – of our reader voters. In each of the past five years, they’ve tabbed the popular eatery as their favorite local source for BBQ. David’s offers a range of tasty barbecue items, each sliced or chopped as you place your order.

David’s Barbecue opened in Pantego in 1988 as a fourth-generation, family owned restaurant that has its roots in the North Texas barbecue eatery started by Elias Bryan in 1910. Today, David’s Barbecue is owned by Jimmy Harris and continues to draw critical acclaim.

For instance, this yelp.com review: “I have been going to Bryan-family restaurants for over 50 years now. After the first couple of months at David’s I didn’t need to even say my order - they knew: Sliced beef sandwich, open face. I want to be embalmed in their BBQ sauce!”

rince Lebanese Grill, owned and operated by Francis, Amira, Aziz and Elizabeth Kobty, earned its third straight All Star nod this year.

That noted, the popular eatery has been earning – and maintaining – the business of hungry Texans since 1989, offering delicious authentic Lebanese food and a family atmosphere that customers love.

Francis started the restaurant, Aziz became the manager after graduating from college and handles marketing, while Elizabeth heads day-to-day operations. That team is devoted to both the quality of the dining experience and to the customers who get to experience it.

“Our vision at Prince is top-quality food, reasonable prices and a family environment,” Aziz says. “Prince Lebanese Grill’s philosophy is to take care of others. From the customers to the staff we strive to treat everyone like family. We try to bring this passion into everything that we do here, and I think people can taste it in the food.”

David’s Barbecue

Prince Lebanese Grill

2224 W. Park Row Drive, Suite H • 817-261-9998 • davidsbarbecuetx.com

502 W. Randol Mill • 817-469-1811 • princelebanesegrill.com

Urban Alchemy Coffee+Wine Bar

Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop

Winner: Wine Bar

Honorable Mention: Bakery

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iven that, in two short years, Urban Alchemy Coffee + Wine Bar has become one of the Arlington area’s favorite destinations, it’s little surprise that the upstart company is celebrating its second straight All Star award.

With plenty of softseating, a patio, chefdriven fare and spaces for special events and live music – oh, yeah, and great coffee and wine – the eclectic gathering place has become everything owner Tony Rutigliano dreamed of when he first conceived his business.

Just as he envisioned, Urban Alchemy offers its own line of coffees in partnership with Metro Coffee Grouppe, a wine list crafted after meticulous consultation with local connoisseurs, and delicious food.

Rutigliano also came up with the Alchemist’s Club wine and coffee subscription, with special deals and amenities for members to ensure that regular patrons are treated just right.

36

here just might be something to the old saying that suggests the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach – Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop has made such a good impression on its customers that they expressed a collective “thank you” by voting Buttermilk Sky to this year’s All Star team.

The bakery certainly has a way with pies. It offers daily flavors such as Southern Custard, Granny’s Apple, Chocolate Cream, Key Lime, Peanut Butter Cream, Blueberry, Coconut Cream, Chewy Chocolate Chip and I-40 (pecans, chocolate chips, a sprinkle of toasted coconut, and a smooth pecan pie filling combined in a sweet shortbread crust).

And, as if that isn’t enough, Buttermilk Sky even has a Pie Perks Club through which members are rewarded on their birthdays with a free fourinch pie, among other tasty perks.

This is where you say, “Yum!” and then head to the address below.

Urban Alchemy Coffee + Wine Bar

Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop

403 E. Main St. • 817-617-2054 • urbanalchemy.bar

1707 N. Collins St., Suite 115 • 817-617-2046 • buttermilkskypie.com/locations/arlington

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Your Business’ Financial Ally

Artwork created by UTA retired Professor David Keens

Attentive Service With decades of experience, PSK LLP offers an unparalleled range of services for your business. We’re different than your typical accounting firm.

At PSK, you aren’t just another name on our roster. Your business is important to us, and you’ll enjoy customized and personalized care.

ACCOUNTING | AUDITING

Winner

TAX & BUSINESS CONSULTING PAYROLL | PERSONAL TAX

Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

Thank you Arlington Today readers and clients for voting us Best CPA in Arlington!

Honorable Mention 2018 & 2019 Winner 2020

3001 Medlin Dr. #100 Arlington, TX 76015 (817) 664-3000 www.pskcpa.com

Payroll Partnership Together, PSK LLP and Payroll Partners provide clients the opportunity for seamless financial services. We take pride in your success by providing topnotch accounting, auditing and consulting, plus the addition of payroll services.

3001 Medlin Drive #25 Arlington, TX 76015 (817) 226-8111 www.payrollpartners.com

All Stars: Star Spotlight: Eats / Drinks Home / Merriment Life ,,, Home Life

Mercury Chophouse Winner: Steakhouse Honorable Mention: Wine Bar

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or the third straight year, Mercury Chophouse Arlington has earned a spot on our All Star team, which is a notable achievement, considering the restaurant has only been open since the fall of 2017.

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

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

Mercury Chophouse offers lunch and dinner menus that feature chef-prepared delicacies, from appetizers such as Shrimp Dynamite and filet mignon flatbread to main courses that include the likes of oven-roasted salmon, braised short ribs and prime bone-in ribeye. Each entree can be complemented with shareable side dishes such as salt-crusted baked potato, creamed corn risotto, burgundy mushrooms, ailoi brussels sprouts and grilled asparagus, to name a few.

While the view outside is unparalleled, Mercury Chophouse’s interior is a sight to behold, as well. Its beautiful decor is marked by wood accents, chandeliers, an entertainment lounge, a bar and a piano bar – a collective setting that embodies the vision owner Jim Ross had when he first entertained the idea of converting the space that previously housed Cacherel into his city’s finest upscale eatery.

“Nothing else offers this,” he says. “I love Arlington, and I’m very involved in things that happen around town. What we wanted to accomplish was to bring Arlington inside a finedining restaurant. We always say that fine dining isn’t just going out and having dinner. You’re on a two or three hour vacation.”

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Piccolo Mondo Winner: Italian Cuisine

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ne of the surer wagers you could make would be to bet on Piccolo Mondo landing a spot on our annual All Star team. We’ve had seven Readers’ Choice polls over the years, and this local culinary icon has been named an All Star seven times.

This kind of success suggests that owner Antonio Capaccioli knows Italian cuisine – and how to present it to customers not just in the right way, but in the virtually perfect way. Capaccioli says the popular eatery is simply what he would look for in a fine dining experience – if he were to venture to the homeland.

“We’re more traditional in style,” he says. “I traveled a lot when I was younger, and when I found something I liked to eat, I took note. When we opened the restaurant here, we offered things I liked to eat myself.”

While that would probably be enough, he and his team also offer alluring ambiance, a popular piano bar and a banquet room that is perfect for big groups.

One really big group, that representing our readers, certainly approves.

Piccolo Mondo 829 E. Lamar Blvd. • 817-265-9174 • piccolomondo.com

Texas Insurance Agency Honorable Mention: Insurance - Home / Auto

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s evidenced by its fifth consecutive All Star selection, Texas Insurance Agency is known throughout the region for providing quality homeowners, auto, life and commercial insurance.

Owner John Parker started the company in 2001, and it has grown steadily year after year. Texas Insurance Agency represents some of the best-known carriers, including Allstate, Hartford, Nationwide, Progressive, Safeco and Travelers.

Parker says his company operates on a simple principle: providing great service and doing what is best for the client. “These principles have been emphasized from day one and continue to be our focus on a daily basis,” he says. “We truly care about our clients and about their businesses. They see this and really come to trust our services.”

Mercury Chophouse Arlington

Texas Insurance Agency

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

500 E. Broad St., Mansfield • 817-226-9988 • texasins.net

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

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• Live 24/7 Scheduling Support • Licensed & Insured Caregivers • Alzheimer's & Dementia Care • Continuity of Care • Full-Spectrum Home Care • Ongoing Case Management • Licensed for Skilled Nursing

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Veteran owned, veteran managed.

All Stars: Home Life

Comet Cleaners

Designs by Lisa

Winner: Dry Cleaner

Winner: Interior Designer

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D

ere’s a sure bet: When we have a Readers’ Choice All Star team, Comet Cleaners will be part of it – the popular establishment has won every year since we added Dry Cleaner to the list of categories some five years ago.

Comet Cleaners has locations all over the country – and, even, outside it. Locally, you can easily find a Comet Cleaners near you.

And, if you look in the history files, you’ll also find that the precursor to Comet Cleaners started in Arlington in 1924. The original business began after R.L. “Jack” Godfrey left home in 1920 to go work in a tailor’s shop and then decided to open his own dry cleaning company four years later.

Now, nearly a century later, Comet Cleaners operates more than 185 locations internationally, and the ones in our area consistently live up to the legacy of service and quality Godfrey established during the company’s genesis.

Comet Cleaners 1207 W. Randol Mill Road • 817-795-3103 • 1507 S. Bowen Road • 817-277-2753 410 W. Division St. • 817-460-0071 • 2501 E. Mayfield Road • 817-468-2624 2200 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-649-3453 • 2425 SE Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-419-9422 cometcleaners.com

esigns by Lisa has landed in the All Star Readers’ Choice circle for the fourth consecutive year! Designs by Lisa owner, Lisa Fitzgerald, has been designing, decorating and staging homes for more than 12 years.

What began as a decorating and design project for an ophthalmology practice, has now evolved into a full-service interior design company designing in a variety of styles; including modern, contemporary, traditional and beyond. Lisa’s passion and attention to detail provide clients with interior designs to fit their lifestyles and optimize the style and beauty of their homes. Lisa has also partnered with custom home builders by decorating model homes and also by providing new home buyers decorating style options and furnishings.

“I am extremely passionate about helping my clients achieve their design and project goals. I take great pride in helping them keep costs down, designing to meet their comfort and style levels, and incorporating their heirloom furnishings whenever possible,” says Lisa. From individual room interior design projects and holiday decorating to full home design transformations, Lisa is focused on designing for comfort and designing for style!

Designs by Lisa 817-235-7077 • facebook.com/Designs-By-Lisa-192547380953856/ Photos: Unique Exposure Photography and Ellman Photography

Bit by Bit

Molly Davis Design

Honorable Mention: Computer Services

Honorable Mention: Interior Designer

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irst-time All Star Bit by Bit was founded in 1987 as a database application development and networking company, and since then it has evolved into a full-service IT firm and leader in delivering powerful and cost-effective technology solutions.

Led by Manager Robert Blake, Bit by Bit specializes in building and managing solutions, including business continuity, cloud offerings, cyber security, application development and enterprise fax solutions. Bit by Bit’s unique combination of business technology, certified technicians, and efficient processes gives it a competitive edge over other IT companies.

Bit by Bit has the expertise to navigate the evolving world of technology and determine which path is right for your business, large or small. Its staff works with clients to identify their unique needs, providing customized plans and products to improve productivity, streamline business communications, and lower IT costs.

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aking the Readers’ Choice All Star team for the second straight year, Molly Davis Design specializes in interior design, renovations and staging for local home dwellers and real estate specialists.

Owner Molly Davis started her company 10 years ago and has become a go-to source in the North Texas area not only for home design ideas, but for design trends, as well.

Her keen eye for finding and implementing just the right colors and textures, combined with her passion for creating styles within the home that outlast trends, make Davis a popular choice for full redesign or simple renovation projects.

From painting kitchen cabinets to selecting the material for countertops, from mixing finishes across appliances, lighting fixtures, hardware and décor to the selection of appropriate hues and textures of natural materials like stone, wood and concrete, Davis helps create dream interiors for all her clients.

Bit by Bit

Molly Davis Design

721 N. Fielder Road, Suite B • 877-860-5831 • bitxbit.com/texas

682-429-7050

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Only the best for our guests.

At Mercury Chophouse, we pride ourselves on pairing fantastic food with superb service.

You’ll see the difference when you join us for lunch, dinner or drinks with a view from rlington s only fine dining resta rant.

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS 817-381-1157

2221 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 910 • Arlington, Tx 76006 mercurychophouse.com

Winner 2018-20 All Star Steakhouse • Honorable Mention 2020 All Star Wine Bar

All Stars: Home Life

Green’s Produce & Plants Winner: Garden Center

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aking its All Star debut this year – and about to celebrate its 50th anniversary – Green’s Produce & Plants is a farmers market and garden center that provides high-quality produce, plants, garden decor, and vintage treasures to customers who visit from all over the Metroplex and beyond.

In the beginning, Owner Tom Baron arrived at market in the wee hours of morning to be the first to make his selection of produce from the farmers’ stalls. He traveled to local farms to get the freshest black-eyed peas, the best tasting tomatoes, or juiciest Parker County peaches. Then it was on to the greenhouses to hand pick the best geraniums, ferns, and mums.

Over the past four decades Green’s has grown quite a bit. Tom has left the market trips in the capable hands of his grandson, Bruce White.

The plants are now picked

by Green’s knowledgeable Photos: Southern Flair Photography operations manager Patti White, Tom’s daughter. After a tentative try at retirement Tom now helps out when needed at Green’s Produce & Plants.

The produce at Green’s follows the seasons, so the stock changes from week to week and month to month. The company also offers a huge selection of annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables and much more, including Texas natives and foreign wonders, for shade sun or somewhere in between. Green’s sells fully matured plants, as well as starter plants and seeds and has a large selection of drought tolerant natives and plants adapted to the Dallas / Fort Worth area of North Texas. Then, to complement the plants Green’s offers all manner of pots, garden decor and vintage treasures for display indoors and in the garden.

Green’s also sells grab-and-go selections of items made in-house, such as jams, jellies, tamales, salsa and precut foods such as watermelon, cantaloupes, cucumber salad, cole slaw and fruit crisp.

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Baldi Gardens Winner: Backyard Remodeler, Landscaper

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ith decades of experience in garden design and planting techniques, two-time All Star Baldi Gardens will help you create a new landscape that is sure to exceed even your greatest dreams.

The Baldi Gardens team will work with you to plan and design your project, then execute said plan on time and on budget.

Since its founding, the company has built a staff of professionals to serve your every landscaping need. It employs experts in gardening, lawn care, drainage systems, hardscapes, water features and outdoor lighting to give you a personalized and custom approach to your outdoor needs.

Baldi Gardens experts include Texas Certified Landscape Professionals (TCLPs), Certified Landscape Lighting Designers / Installers, as well as Commercially Licensed Pesticide Applicators (Texas Department of Agriculture).

Baldi Gardens 820 Station Drive, Suite 126 • 817-860-0905 • info@baldigardens.com • baldigardens.com

Price Right Tree Service Honorable Mention: Landscaper

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irst-time All Star Price Right Tree Service began in 2004, when co-owner Price Pitstick started mowing yards with two high school friends. When a mentor named Garrett Dean gave them 30 of his clients, this gave them the motivation to launch a full-time landscaping business.

Some 16 years later, while Pitstick’s buddies have moved on to other careers, he and his co-owner wife Erika have steadily grown the company, while servicing some incredible homes, businesses and school districts in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Erika takes care of payroll and oversees other expenses/ budgeting, as well as specializing in marketing and mass communications. Price works with the employees hands-on and deals with giving estimates. “I love our partnership,” Erika says.

“And I am proud in seeing our skills unfold as a team unit with the rest of our incredible staff.”

Green’s Produce & Plants

Price Right Tree Service

3001 W. Arkansas Lane • 817-274-2435 • greensproduce.com

817-675-8565 • pricerighttrees@gmail.com • pricerighttrees.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

LEADERS IN THE COURTROOM LEADERS IN THE COMMUNITY

Harris Cook, LLP was founded on the pillars of service and giving back to our communities. We are a team of problem solvers who will get you the answers you need and the personalized service you deserve. We are known for providing outstanding legal representation to businesses, families, and individuals and can help you tackle any legal issues you are facing. Harris Cook, LLP is a Full-Service firm dedicated to addressing the challenges you face today while mitigating and preventing problems for your future.

Arlington Mansfield Flower Mound 5 year Winner Attorney/Law Firm

www.HarrisCookLaw.com

(817) 275-8765

Chris Harris & Associates, PC Fee Attorney For Alamo Title Company “It will always be our mission to provide superior service and a proactive approach when handling your real estate transactions.”

- David L. Cook, President

www.Alamo-Title.com

All Stars: Home Life

RJ Construction Winner: Remodeler, Roofer (tie)

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our-time All Star R J Construction – and its venerable owner, Robert Jordan – have come a long way since the company was founded in 2007 with one employee, Jordan, working from the back of a truck. Jordan now has more than 40 full-time crew members – and lots of trucks.

Jordan, who started as a roofer to make ends meet in high school, now not only roofs, but builds, remodels, plumbs and more. In essence, any part of a home that needs to be created, fixed or enhanced falls in Jordan and Company’s domain.

“Our goal,” says Jordan, “is to provide a wide array of roofing and construction services to meet any need that may arise, and to become your contractor of choice for all of your homeowner needs.”

The yearning to do Robert Jordan stellar work for his neighbors is one of the things that sets Jordan – and his company – apart.

“This is my community – I was born and raised in Arlington – and my clients are like family,” he says. “When I started this business I made a promise that I would do whatever it takes to make sure I took care of my customers – even if it’s not easy to do.”

In any given month, RJ Construction will be working on 75 to 150 jobs – some big, some not so. Most of his business comes via word of mouth. He also markets on his Facebook page (facebook.com/RJConstructionDFW), where his company’s craftsmanship and artistry is on display in the Photos section for all the area to see. One part of that work – a hailstorm repair for which he used prestigious Ludowici tile (imported in 1924) to replace a damaged roof – earned him a 2016 Golden Hammer Award for “Outstanding Residential Roofing Project.”

The company also recently earned the Presidents Club award as the top roofer in the DFW Metroplex from GAF, the largest shingle manufacturer in the world. Only 1/10% of contractors receive this honor.

“In each of the jobs that earned an award I got to do something to help someone in my hometown have a better home,” Jordan says. “That’s why we do this.”

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Frazier Roofs & Gutters Winner (tie): Roofer

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aking its All Star debut, Frazier Roofing & Guttering Co., Inc., and owner Rich Frazier have been a fixture in the roofing community for more than 40 years.

“We provide fair services at competitive prices, and we are sure to take care of all of our customers,” Frazier says. “Not everyone offers free estimates, but we do. We work with top manufacturers and all types of roofing. We work especially well with asphalt shingles, stone coated steel, modified bitumen roofing, and pretty much any other residential or commercial roofing material you may have on your roof. This includes things like TPO, impact resistant shingles, and other types. There are roofing products that fit any type of budget.

Frazier Roofs & Gutters offers repairs, replacements, installations, and preventative maintenance. This means it is a full-service company that is able to service all of your roofing needs. “You may need help with an emergency repair at any time,” Frazier adds. “We are practiced in that, too.”

Frazier Roofs & Gutters 208 Willis Ave. • 817-277-3131 • frazierservices.com

Joe Hall Roofing & Contracting Honorable Mention: Roofer

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his is worth noting: Joe Hall Roofing has been named an All Star the past four years. So is this: The Hall name has been associated with quality roofing in the Dallas-Fort Worth area for more than three decades.

Joe Hall, the family and business patriarch, started Joe Hall Roofing in 1989. He eventually sold the company in the mid 1990s to son Brett, who has continued a tradition of honesty and integrity – and of crafting quality roofs throughout the area. Now the company welcomes a third generation, Jackson, into the business, symbolizing the continuity that sets the company apart. It has been there for the community in the past and is solid for the future.

Brett Hall “Our name and the quality of our work are backed by five generations of Hall family members, all of whom have been builders and contractors,” Brett says. “Our longevity in this industry and continuous growth is the product of our commitment to our customers and our passion for the business.”

The company offers all manner of roofing options, including commercial and residential with top-tier endorsements from all roofing product manufacturers.

R J Construction

Joe Hall Roofing & Contracting

2640 W. Pioneer Pkwy. • 817-412-9899 • rj-construction.com

1925 W. Pioneer Pkwy. • 817-274-6777 • joehallroofing.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

All Stars: Home Life

PSK Winner (tie): CPA / Tax Prep

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n All Star for the third year in a row, PSK LLP has been a valuable part of the Arlington community for more than 50 years, giving back in many ways. The firm has a long history of being involved in Arlington. Whether it is serving on the board of the Arlington Life Shelter or the Higher Education Servicing Corporation, being involved with the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, volunteering with Mission Arlington or participating in the Arlington Holiday Lights Parade, the team at PSK cares deeply about its hometown.

Additionally, The firm has a long history with the University of Texas at Arlington, both as alumni, where nearly half of their employees are graduates of UTA, and with a unique internship program. Internships are 12 to 18 months long. Interns are given tailored responsibilities and explore the varied services offered by the firm.

PSK is a full-service CPA, consulting and advisory firm that provides accounting, tax, audit, payroll and business consulting services to national and local clients in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. PSK is beyond the average accountant. The level of care and range of services offered to clients is unparalleled. The company offers extended services to a wide variety of clients, while maintaining a focus on relationship-building.

PSK is dedicated to providing value to clients through success and development of the PSK team, while maintaining important core values. PSK strives to preserve a unique culture, even as a growing business. This unique culture includes encouraging work/life balance, maintaining a family like and small firm feeling, promoting teamwork and open communication while still attracting and retaining the best people and clients in the area.

The firm opened for business in 1964 and is now one of the largest firms in Arlington. PSK serves clients in transportation, healthcare, construction, manufacturing and the nonprofit sectors, as well as serving churches, family-owned businesses and investor groups. Although they have a wide range of clientele, they cheerfully always ask “What else can we do for you?” to ensure they are going above and beyond for each client.

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Parker & Richardson Winner (tie): CPA / Tax Prep

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ur readers clearly appreciate the Certified Public Accountant team at Parker & Richardson – this is the sixth straight year they’ve voted the Mansfield-based company to the All Star team.

Founder John Parker says the key to that bond is his team’s dedication to serving clients.

“Over the years, Parker & Richardson has evolved into a boutique practice that specializes in catering to the distinct needs of our business owners,” he says. “We provide great service and do what is best for the client. These principles have been emphasized from day one and continue to be our focus on a daily basis.”

Whether you need tax planning, tax return preparation, strategic or transactional consulting, small business consulting, business valuation, state and local tax assistance, or a full complement of other individualized services, Parker & Richardson responds effectively and efficiently to your needs. “We have several clients that have us handle all facets of their accounting needs,” says Parker. “My goal is to gain an understanding of the client, so we can help him/her to succeed.”

Parker & Richardson 500 E. Broad St., Mansfield • 817-226-6100 • parkercpas.com

Robert R. Brackeen, CPA Honorable Mention: CPA / Tax Prep

R

obert R. Brackeen, CPA, has been named an All Star for the second consecutive year. Since 1978, Brackeen has served the Arlington and Metroplex area with outstanding accounting and tax services.

Brackeen, who has been a sole practitioner since 1994, specializes in accounting and tax preparation services for a wide variety of clients. He specializes in: • Tax return filing and tax planning for individuals.

• Bookkeeping and financial statements for small businesses.

• Corporate tax return filing.

“I provide accounting and financial reporting for companies,” he says. “For individuals I provide tax planning and preparation. I work with the client’s financial advisers for awareness of their financial and retirement planning goals and its financial and tax implications.”

He is active in community service through Salvation Army, Kiwanis and church. His wife Tina is social worker at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital.

PSK

Robert R. Brackeen, CPA

3001 Medlin Drive, Suite 100 • 817-664-3000 • pskcpa.com

2225 E. Randol Mill Road, Suite 515 • 817-608-9110 • rbcpatx.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Imagine the possibilities.

Residential and Commercial Roofing Gutters & Siding | Doors & Windows Home Remodeling: Kitchen | Bath Outdoor Living | Painting New Construction | Damage Restoration

Call today for a free estimate

Winner 2017-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

rj-construction.com

817.412.9899

All Star Roofing

Winner

2017, 2019-20 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Remodeling

All Stars: Home Life

MC Group Winner: Real Estate Agent

P

Ebby Halliday Realtors Winner: Real Estate Company

T

hroughout 2020, Ebby Halliday Realtors is celebrating 75 years of serving the real estate needs of North Texans and those relocating to the region. It all began in 1945, when one bold woman parlayed her wisdom, generosity, business acumen and endurance into what is today the No. 1 residential real estate brokerage in Texas.

“Long life is a privilege not everyone – or every company – gets to enjoy,” says Ebby Halliday Companies President & CEO Chris Kelly. “During this anniversary year, we acknowledge this fact with a spirit of gratitude.”

Acquired by HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, in 2018, the widely admired company has in the past year implemented a concerted effort to modernize homeownership services and ensure that homeownership is available to everyone buying or selling a home in North Texas.

Since the acquisition, the Ebby Halliday Companies’ expanded leadership team has focused intensely on ensuring its agents and clients benefit from the latest technology and tools. Among the company’s primary business objectives in 2020 is furthering access to homeownership opportunities for historically marginalized communities.

Today, Ebby Halliday is the largest real estate company in Texas and has more than 30 offices covering some 12,000 square miles of North Texas.

Ebby Halliday’s first Arlington office opened in 1977. Due to growth, the office has moved twice since then to its current location in west Arlington. The Ebby Halliday family further expanded in 2010 when the Mansfield office opened.

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rincipals of a team known as The MC Group, Linda Magazzine and Michael Cunningham, are both multiple-time All Stars.

Magazzine has been a real estate professional for four decades, the past 19 of which have been associated with Ebby Halliday, REALTORS ®.

She has been Ebby Halliday’s Top Individual or Group Producer for the Arlington office since 2002. She also ranked in the top five nationwide from 1989 to 2003. “My professional philosophy is this: To give real service, you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity,” she says.

Cunningham has more than 20 years experience with Ebby Halliday, using a two-pronged approach to success: know the customer and know the market. “As a top producer with Ebby Halliday, REALTORS ®, I have consistently delivered results and achieved client goals while successfully creating, coordinating and implementing strategic marketing and sales programs,” Cunningham says. “My first priority is to ensure the success of your investment.”

Magazzine Cunningham Group Linda Magazzine: 817-980-8733 • lindamagazzine@ebby.com Michael Cunningham: 817-654-8445 • michaelcunningham@ebby.com

Harris Cook, LLP Winner: Attorney HM: Attorney-Real Estate, Personal Injury, Divorce

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n All Star for the fifth straight year, Harris Cook, LLP, has built a reputation for professionalism and effectiveness in a wide range of legal matters and now features a highly-skilled team composed of David L. Cook, Patrick L. Dooley, Rachel L. Wright, Paul J. Johnson, Larry L. Fowler, Jr., Marc A. Stach, Lin Morrisett, Melinda H. Barlow and Wesly C. Maness.

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

Harris Cook is able to offer an outstanding, Full-Service firm experience to its roster of clients, including the many businesses throughout North Texas for which Harris Cook currently serves in an outside General Counsel role.

Ebby Halliday Realtors

Harris Cook, LLP

1201 W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-654-3737 600 Hwy. 287 N., Suite 100, Mansfield • 682-422-0333 • ebby.com

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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

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2018, 2019, 2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

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All Star Pain Management Jason Butler, M.D.

www.painandtherapy.com

All Stars: Home Life

Donna J. Smiedt Winner: Attorney-Family Law

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n All Star for the third time, Donna J. Smiedt is the founding and managing partner of the Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt, PLLC. She has been practicing for more than 33 years, all of which have been devoted to the practice of family law.

Smiedt has twice been named as a Texas Super Lawyer by her peers, something only five percent of Texas lawyers have achieved.

Smiedt was presented the Family Law Attorney of the Year in Arlington award for several years, and has also been named a Fort Worth Top Attorney for over a decade. She has garnered one of the highest AV RATINGS by peers.

Other principals at the practice include attorneys Desaray R. Muma and Michael Muñoz. Collectively, this team has over half a century of experience in serving clients in the practice of family law.

“From pre-nuptial agreements to appellate work, we cover the complete practice of family law,” Smiedt says. “The firm can handle the simplest uncontested divorce to the most contentious custody litigation, as well as non-litigation forms of dispute resolution, such as mediation and collaborative law.”

During these trying times related to the COVID-19 pandemic, Smiedt wants to assure clients and prospective clients that she and her team are there to help.

“Although we are very conscious of the COVID-19 risks, we understand that people especially need family lawyers at this time,” she says. “After practicing in the area of family law for 33 years and being board-certified for 32 of those years, I have a keen awareness of how the current situation has deeply affected marriages and children in our community. We stand ready and able to service our ongoing clients in our newly disinfected office wherein we now require that all visitors submit their forehead for a contactless temperature reading to protect our work family and yours.”

Smiedt and her team are able to meet virtually with clients or “they are welcome to come to our newly disinfected office ... where we are practicing Social Distancing during all meetings with clients and we do require that they wear a mask to enter the building.”

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Stephanie A. Foster Winner: Attorney-Divorce

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tephanie Foster has been named an All Star for the third year in a row, thanks to readers/clients who appreciate her compassion and persistence while dealing with one of the more important legal decisions a person can make: divorce.

Foster is a strong litigator who effectively articulates and argues for her clients’ interests in contested divorce cases. But her main priority is finding solutions that are beneficial to the family as a whole. “One option is traditional courtroom litigation.

Another option is collaborative divorce,” Foster says. “Although I am prepared to be the warrior in your courtroom battle as I have been in thousands of Tarrant County divorce cases over the past 29 years, my preference is to be the peacemaker in your interest-based negotiations through the dignified, private, child-protecting process known as collaborative divorce, which involves no court.”

Foster believes the collaborative process is a powerful way to generate creative solutions in family law disputes while minimizing financial and emotional damage to families facing divorce.

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

Karen Schroeder Winner: Attorney-Elder Law

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

She opened her solo practice in Mansfield in 2009 after almost 15 years serving as inhouse counsel for multiple corporations, and as an Assistant District Attorney. Her law firm specializes in wills and trusts (including gun trusts), elder law and guardianships, asset and wealth protection and probate.

Licensed as a Texas attorney since 1994, Schroeder has built a reputation as a problem-solver who serves clients’ needs with legal professionalism and a commitment to individualized attention.

“I believe in long-term partnerships and in building relationships in the community I still live in and love,” she says. “I strive to gain my clients’ trust, one case at a time. My passion is educating clients and the public on estate planning options with a goal of equipping them with the legal tools necessary to avoid costly and time-consuming probate.”

The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt, PLLC

Karen Schroeder

3216 W. Arkansas Lane • 817-572-9900 • arlingtondivorces.com

550 N. Walnut Creek, #110, Mansfield • 817-842-0220 • KarenSchroederLaw.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

T H E

W AY

B A N K I N G

S H O U L D

B E

THANK YOU FOR VOTING Thank you to all who voted for Pinnacle Bank for the Best Bank in Arlington.

It’s our customers that make us great!

ARLINGTON 2401 W. Park Row, 817.277.2225 1521 N. Cooper, Suite 100, 817.807.4000 • pinnbanktx.com ARLINGTON • AZLE • BENBROOK • BURLESON CLEBURNE • COLLEYVILLE • FORT WORTH • JOSHUA • KEENE MANSFIELD • MIDLOTHIAN • RHOME • SPRINGTOWN

COMING LATE 2020 – GRANBURY & RIO VISTA

MEMBER FDIC

All Stars: Home Life

Jim Ross Law Group

Roger ‘Rocky’ Walton

Winner: Attorney-Criminal Defense, Real Estate, Business/Litigaton

Winner: Attorney-Personal Injury

J

im Ross, founder of the acclaimed firm, Jim Ross Law Group, PC, and a long-time community icon, has been named an All Star attorney for the fifth year in a row.

Ross is a former Marine, Texas police officer and Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) task force officer who supervised local offices for some of the country’s more prestigious law firms before opening his own practice in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Ross’ professional experience led him to partner with famed environmental activist Erin Brockovich and prosecute various environmental cases throughout the country.

In 2007, he left the big firm life to pursue his own practice.

With a focus on litigation, Ross decided not to limit his practice to a particular area but to provide a firm that can handle a variety of his clients’ legal matters.

Those clients have responded in-kind and have been the driving force behind the significant growth of the firm.

The Jim Ross Law Group is a general practice litigation firm that handles cases involving personal injury, family law, civil and business litigation, criminal defense and probate matters.

The firm operates on the philosophy that all people deserve representation. “It’s the Texas way and part of the American spirit,” Ross says. “It’s often said that ‘no man is above the law.’ In America, that’s the truth. At our law firm, we represent people from many situations and walks of life.”

Ross says straight talk is the foundation of his practice.

“Sometimes this isn’t easy to do, and the news isn’t always good,” he says. “However, we firmly believe that our clients deserve the truth and to have unyielding support from a tough legal team that delivers on its promises.”

Attorneys at Jim Ross Law realize that each case is unique.

“We also know that what is right for others may not be right for you,” Ross says. “We will tailor a legal strategy to your needs, combining the legal tools that are right for you. We’ll never force you to settle. That will always be your decision.

But we will do everything possible to make settlement a real option – one that is favorable to you.”

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two-time All Star, the Law Firm of Roger “Rocky” Walton has been serving the Arlington community since 1975. The first office was located on East Pioneer Parkway until it moved to West Green Oaks Blvd in 1990. The office moved to West Interstate 20 in 2003. Rocky says he has no plans of moving again.

During his time in Arlington, Rocky has represented thousands of satisfied clients in various areas of law. He has always worked hard for his clients and kept them constantly informed. Rocky and his employees truly love helping people and treat their clients the way they would want to be treated. They are completely honest with their clients.

Rocky has great credentials. He has an advanced law degree (LLM) in Taxation and Securities, so early on he did a lot of corporate and commercial law, along with personal injury law.

In 1987, the law firm took the bold step of handling nothing but personal injury and wrongful death claims. Rocky states that he likes that area of law better because he gets to help individuals rather than big business. In addition, his fee is based upon result of recovery rather than hourly billings.

In 1994, after a lot of hard work, Rocky was able to become certified as to special competence in the area of Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Fewer than 3% of Texas lawyers are board certified specialists in that area of law. Rocky has been re-certified every five years.

Employees of the Law Firm of Roger “Rocky” Walton, P.C. are highly qualified paralegals who have been with the firm for many years. Three paralegals are also licensed claim adjusters. The firm also has an associate attorney, Tim Brandenburg, who also has extensive trial experience.

In 1987 Rocky’s firm was the first law firm in Arlington to have a database and email. Since then the firm has stayed on the cutting edge of technology for law firms. The firm now does file storage and computing in the cloud. The firm is also transitioning to paperless.

“I love helping people and will continue to practice law as long as I am doing a good job for my clients,” Rocky says. “At this time, the Law Firm of Roger “Rocky” Walton P.C. is at the top of its game and will be in business in Arlington for many years to come.”

Visit rockywaltoninjurylawyers.com and check out the 5.0 Google review average for over 70 reviews from satisfied clients.

Jim Ross Law Group

The Law Firm of Roger “Rocky” Walton, P.C.

2221 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 800 • 817-275-4100 • jimrosslaw.com

2310 W. Interstate 20, Suite 200 • 817-429-4299 • rockywaltoninjurylawyers.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Winner 2015-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

Mission Arlington 210 W SOUTH ST • ARLINGTON, TEXAS

Doris Stanford, Branch Manager at Texas Trust Credit Union’s All-Staff Volunteer Day

BUILDING BRIGHTER FINANCIAL FUTURES

A force for good in Arlington, Texas When our community needs us, we give back in big ways, like donating our time and profits to worthy causes.

And when our members need us, they can talk to someone locally who truly cares about them. That’s why people in Arlington do business with Texas Trust Credit Union — we are, and always have been, a People Company.

Learn more about us: TexasTrustCU.org | Based locally in Arlington, Texas | Federally insured by NCUA.

All Stars: Home Life

SWBC Mortgage

Worthington National Bank

Winner: Mortgage Company

Winner: Local Bank, Bank-Customer Service

T

W

he team at the Arlington branch of SWBC Mortgage prides itself on providing a rewarding home-buying experience. Whether building, purchasing, or refinancing, they can help borrowers find the right loan program for their unique needs. Mary Dietz, Branch Manager, brings four decades of mortgage experience to SWBC Mortgage. She is joined by Loan Officers Paul Beaney and Aaron Spaight and Support Staff Karyn and Lacreta.

The SWBC Mortgage team prides itself on simplifying the home financing process by exploring their clients’ options and helping them find a home loan they’ll feel great about. SWBC Mortgage has been providing superior mortgage banking services since 1988 and is consistently recognized as one of the top 100 lenders in America. Last year, CEO Susan Stewart served as the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) Vice Chairman for the 2019 membership year. “This is recognition of her leadership and ongoing contributions to both the mortgage industry and SWBC Mortgage, as we continue to provide the ‘happiest way home’ for all of our clients across Texas and the country,” Dietz says.

orthington National Bank is marking its fourth All Star award celebration this year. Formally opened in 2002, it is a locally owned and operated, independent, and modern-day community bank that believes in doing business the old fashioned way. It is the only national bank that is chartered and headquartered in Arlington.

With over $300 million in total assets, four banking center locations and 50-plus employees, Worthington National Bank provides a full array of deposit and lending services for commercial businesses and consumers.

Commercial lending products include loans for working capital, expansion needs, equipment purchases, real estate acquisition and development. For consumers the bank also offers vehicle loans, home improvement loans, home equity loans, single family interim construction loans and a full-service residential mortgage department to assist with home purchases or refinances.

SWBC Mortgage Branch NMLS number 90348 1281 W. Green Oaks Blvd., #119 • 817-795-0031• swbcmortgage.com

Worthington National Bank 200 W. Main St. • 817-303-5900 • worthingtonbank.com

Loans subject to credit and property approval. SWBC Mortgage Corporation, corporate office located at 9311 San Pedro, Suite 100, San Antonio, TX 78216

Frost Bank

Affiliated Bank

Winner: Bank

Honorable Mention: Bank

I

A

n each of the past five All Star polls, Frost Bank has earned our readers’ collective nod as an Arlington Area favorite. Founded in 1868, Frost provides a full range of banking, investments and insurance services across Texas.

With a philosophy that emphasizes building longterm relationships and treating everyone with integrity, caring and excellence, we have earned numerous awards for customer service to consumers and businesses.

We’re there for our customers with a 24/7 customer care line, and we’re there for our communities with volunteer and philanthropic programs.

When you have an account with us, you also have a relationship with us built on honesty, trust and respect. Find out more at our website, www.frostbank.com or by calling (817) 420-5220.

Frost Bank 120 S. East St. • 101 S. Center St. • 1881 Ballpark Way • 3801 Matlock Road • frostbank.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

ffiliated Bank is thrilled to be recognized as a back-to-back Arlington Today All Star. Since our inception in 1959, we take pride in helping local customers and working hard on their behalf. This drive to go above and beyond was evident in our leadership among DFW Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) lenders. We are so honored to have played a role in helping over 1,500 local business owners, of which 75% were new customers, benefiting thousands of their employees and our communities. We recognize we are living in unprecedented times and this was our opportunity to burn the midnight oil in order to help our current and new customers and do our part in supporting our local businesses, who need our support now more than ever. We sincerely appreciate this award and are looking forward to seeing and visiting with you soon at our Arlington headquarters, located on Matlock Road, or full-service branch, located on Pleasant Ridge Road. To learn more about Affiliated Bank, visit www.affiliatedbank.com.

Affiliated Bank 2326 W. Pleasant Ridge Road • 817-460-8052 • www.affiliatedbank.com Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS# 402132

Our Lives Are Unsettled.

Our Futures Don’t Have To Be. Tarrant County College recognizes that these uncertain times have left many people feeling lost. Yet, we also know education can and should be the answer to social and economic challenges.

At just $64 per credit hour (or $960 for a 15-hour semester), students benefit from all that TCC offers:

Variety: • • • • • •

• • • • • • • •

More than 70 fields of study 82 Associate Degree Programs 132 Certificates of Completion 18 Occupational Skills Awards 200 Technical Programs 5 Fully Transferable Degrees for students looking to pursue a four-year degree • More than 80 Transfer Agreements with four-year colleges and universities throughout the state and online More than 70 Community Engagement and Education (CEE) Programs Approximately 173 student clubs and organizations Corporate Workforce Training (Customized) College For Kids Early College (Collegiate) High Schools Senior Education Adult Basic Education Developmental Education

Convenience: • • • • • •

Support: •

Transportation: TCC students with an I.D. card can ride any of the 38 Trinity Metro bus routes in Tarrant Count for free. EasyRide also enables students to ride the Trinity Rail Express (between the Intermodal Transportation Center and CentrePort/DFW Airport stations) as well as the Mobility Impaired Transportation Service (MITS) free of charge. TCC students with an I.D. also can use VIA Rideshare in Arlington for free.

•

Child Care Assistance: The TCC Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) provides access to certified, high-quality child care facilities. The CCAP partners with Child Care Management Services (CCMS) to subsidize the cost of community-based child care services.

•

Scholarships: Each year, the TCC Foundation distributes approximately $1.6 million in scholarships.

•

Financial Aid: Last year, TCC disbursed $98.8 million in financial aid.

•

Free Tutoring available to all students, 24/7.

•

Career Services: Comprehensive support from resume writing and interview preparation to career planning and job search.

Excellence: • • • • •

Ranked in 2020 as the nation’s #1 online community college by Intelligent.com Named one of the nation’s Top 150 Community Colleges by the Aspen Institute Ranked as the 2nd best college nationwide for U.S. veterans by Military Times magazine Approximately 350 instructors with doctorate degrees Average pass rate of 90 percent for TCC’s 29 state licensure programs

6 campuses Online Weekend College 8-Week Courses plus Maymester & Wintermester Monthly Starts Summer Courses

We are here for you through these challenging times and beyond.

Visit tccd.edu/admissions or reach us directly at asktcc@tccd.edu or by calling 817-515-8223.

43518

An Equal Opportunity Institution/ Equal Access to persons with disabilities.

All Stars: Home Life

Pinnacle Bank Honorable Mention: Local Bank

Texas Trust Winner: Credit Union

T

exas Trust Credit Union is obviously finding favor with the readers of Arlington Today. This is the fifth straight year the company has been selected as an All Star by our readers.

Texas Trust’s history in North Texas began in 1948 when Chance Vought Aircraft Corporation moved to Dallas from Connecticut. The credit union opened its first Arlington-based branch in 1990, which was located at Highway 360 and Arkansas and later relocated to Highway 360 and Pioneer (1998). Texas Trust continued to expand with more branches in Arlington: on Little Road and Green Oaks (1999), Bowen and Park Row (2013), Bardin and Matlock (2013), on the UTA campus at Center Street and First (2014) and Northeast Green Oaks and Collins (2019).

In 2012, Texas Trust purchased the two-building Cordovan Office Park located on Interstate 20 between Little Road and Green Oaks and renamed it the Texas Trust Business Park. One of the 37,000-square-foot buildings currently serves as the credit union’s headquarters, while the other serves as investment property.

Texas Trust exists for one simple purpose: To build brighter financial futures. The company is a not-for-profit credit union that focuses on giving back to its members and the community at large.

Texas Trust remains committed to providing service that others brag about and treating its members with personal attention. The Texas Trust team stands ready to help, through an array of outstanding products and services. The credit union is also focused on fulfilling the needs of its Arlington communities – and it shows through Texas Trust’s community service and support of local students.

Texas Trust 700 W. Bardin Road • 1300 S. Bowen Road • 4351 Little Road • 2501 E. Pioneer Pkwy.

1060 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd. • 510 S. Center St. • TexasTrustCU.org

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

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irst-time All Star Pinnacle Bank isn’t just in Arlington, Texas, it’s a part of Arlington, Texas. Banking has changed a lot over the years, and while Pinnacle offers the latest conveniences, such as online banking, mobile banking, free checking and online home loans, there are some things that haven’t changed. Like its commitment to knowing your name, answering the phone and treating customers as neighbors.

Pinnacle Bank first opened its doors about 30 miles south of Fort Worth in Keene. The bank was welcomed as a neighbor and important part of the community. That tradition has continued for more than 40 years now. From as far north as Springtown down to Cleburne, Pinnacle Bank grew one community bank at a time.

Pinnacle Bank branches offer a variety of banking products including checking, savings and money market accounts.

They also offer mobile and on-line banking, Visa debit cards, credit cards and a wide array of lending services from small business loans to home mortgage loans. Its investment products include certificates of deposit, health savings accounts, HAS investment accounts, IRAs and access to an in-house investment advisor.

One of the things that sets Pinnacle Bank apart is its educational programs for customers, which include banking education, a cybersecurity guide for customers, product education videos and FDIC MoneySmart training.

Because Pinnacle Bank is always community-friendly, it has established programs for specific groups within the community. For example, they offer student benefits for local customers with features such as up to $10 back per statement cycle on any foreign ATM fees or surcharges and refunds for up to five money order fees and five cashier’s checks fees per statement cycle. For senior citizens, it offers the same perks, plus retirement planning help.

The bottom line: Our readers are right – Pinnacle Bank is a true All Star.

Pinnacle Bank 2401 W. Park Row • 817-277-2225 • 1521 N. Cooper St. • 817-807-4000 pinnbanktx.com

All Stars: Home Life

Don Davis Auto Group Winner: Auto Dealer

C

learly, Arlington Today readers are big fans of Don Davis Auto Group – this is the sixth straight year the company has been named the winner in the Auto Dealer category.

Last year, Don Davis Auto Group celebrated its 40th year of offering quality cars of many makes and models, including Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram, Ford and Nissan. The dealership has long been recognized for its commitment to excellent customer service – regardless of the vehicle that buyers drive off of the lot.

In addition to selling new cars, Don Davis Auto Group offers a wide selection of pre-owned vehicles at each location.

To meet the needs of local would-be car buyers, Don Davis Auto Group holds a yearly “Garage Sale” that has been a dealership staple for more than three decades.

As if all that pertains to automobiles weren’t enough to show how special Don Davis Auto Group is, the dealership is also active in the community as a long-time supporter of WFAA Channel 8’s popular Santa’s Helpers Toy Drive.

It holds an annual “Drive-through” each year, which has contributed thousands of toys distributed through Mission Arlington during Christmas season.

To give you one final idea why Don Davis Auto Group is the readers’ choice for an automobile dealership, consider the glowing reviews that routinely are submitted by satisfied customers, such as these: “This is an awesome dealership. My experience was so nice, I’ve purchased twice! Xavier was my salesman both times.

Never pressured me, always responsive to calls and texts. And worked great deals for me both times. Took time with me and explained even minute details about the cars considered.”

“I’ve really loved working with Don Davis Nissan. During the buying process, they really seemed interested in my being both comfortable with the process and the final cost of my vehicle.

Each time I’ve gone in to have my vehicle serviced, the staff has been very kind and very helpful.”

Don Davis Auto Group 1901 N. Collins (Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram) • 877-377-6801 633 N. Hwy. 360 (Ford) • 877-424-2942 1320 E. I-20 (Nisssan) • 877-379-3670 dondavisautogroup.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

BMW of Arlington Winner: Auto Dealer-Luxury Cars

M

aking its third appearance on our All Star team, BMW of Arlington strives to give you the best possible experience, whether you’re stepping into the showroom for a new BMW or visiting the service center for expert maintenance.

The Arlington dealership stocks the full range of BMW models, including cars from the 2 Series all the way up to the 8 Series, as well as SUVs from the X1 to X7. There’s also sporty sedans, coupes, and convertibles from BMW’s storied M Series. All of these lineups come equipped with the latest in BMW technology and performance features.

In addition to a wide variety of new BMWs, the dealership offers a full range of their most popular models of lightly preowned BMW and MINI models that are rigorously inspected and reconditioned prior to being offered for sale. Each of these Certified cars comes with an unlimited mileage BMW Warranty to give new owners peace of mind, should the need arise for any repairs early in the ownership.

At BMW of Arlington, the entire team is dedicated to helping prospective clients find the path of least resistance to a luxury car they can feel good about. That’s why the dealership offers a variety of car model reviews, so buyers can delve deeper into the specs and features of all the options and find the right BMW for their particular needs or desires.

BMW of Arlington’s finance center offers a variety of lease and finance offers to make it easier to get behind the wheel of a luxury ride, whether it be your first or next. Even if you choose a model that isn’t subject to those offers, the dealership’s team will fight hard to get you the best terms and rates possible for your next auto loan.

Plus, BMW of Arlington’s service center offers a variety of service specials to help you save on crucial preventative service items down the road. The dealership is eager to help incentivize you to follow your maintenance schedule and get the most value and security out of your ride.

BMW of Arlington 1105 E. Lamar Blvd. • 817-461-9222 • bmwofarlington.com

Family owned and operated.

Green’s Produce and Plants

Open Year Round: Mon-Sat 8-7, Sun 8-6

Fresh, high quality produce and plants in an open air market and garden center.

Celebrating our 50th Anniversary!

Winner 2020

Readers’ Choice

All Star

All Star Garden Center

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

3001 W Arkansas Ln. • Arlington, TX 76016 • 817-274-2435 • greensproduce.com

All Stars: Home Life

The Orchards at Arlington Highlands

Alamo Title Company

Winner: Retirement Community

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aking its debut as a Readers’ Choice All Star in the Retirement Community category, the Orchards at Arlington Highlands is redefining active adult living in the resort style community that is all about relaxation, beauty, character and individuality for its age 55+ residents. That means a new level of activities, scenery and experiences where life is more fun, healthy and vivid.

The Orchards provides an array of standard pleasures for its residents, including one and two-bedroom dwellings with expansive 9-foot ceilings, plush designer carpeting in the bedrooms and spacious walk-in closets. Then there are the built-in bookshelves; the washer and dryer that are part of each residence; the elegant kitchen with granite countertops, a glass-top range and pantries; and showers with glass enclosures. Residents also enjoy large patios or balconies, courtyard and swimming pool views.

And that’s just what’s available to residents when they “settle in” for the evening. The Orchards also has lots of covered parking options available. The Orchards at Arlington Highlands is centrally and conveniently located to the many other great benefits of living in the Arlington Highlands community.

Indeed, among the many features that sets The Orchards apart from other active adult communities are: • Elegant clubhouse with a coffee bar and continental breakfast • Bistro lounge with Starbucks coffee • Theatre room • Craft room with a wrapping station • Library with an exotic aquarium • Game room with table shuffleboard, billiards, scrabble wall and table games • Full-service salon and spa • Well-equipped fitness center • Concierge station • Resort-size swimming pool • Large fire pit with social seating • Barbecue area with grills • Community garden • Putting green • Dog park and pet spa with deluxe wash station • Social calendar with activities • Community shuttle service • Elevator access • Valet trash pickup • Professionally landscaped grounds • Parcel delivery lockers.

Check out this All Star at OrchardsArlingtonHighlands.com.

Chris Harris & Associates, P.C. Winner: Title Company n All Star for the third time, Chris Harris & Associates, P.C., Fee Office for Alamo Title Company have been providing the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex with Title and Escrow Services for more than 40 years.

Under the leadership of President David L. Cook, the team at Chris Harris & Associates, P.C. are deeply rooted in the Arlington and Mansfield communities and as an attorney owned office, they offer many additional benefits to their real estate clients to help provide smooth and timely closings. Chris Harris & Associates has two convenient locations to make closing on your real estate transaction as painless as possible. Each office offers after hours, weekend closings and mobile closing options.

Committed to providing superior service and convenience, Chris Harris & Associates will go to great lengths to ensure that you receive the unrivaled service you need to guide and assist you with your real estate transaction.

Alamo Title Company Arlington: 1309-A W. Abram St. • 817-860-2294 • Mansfield: 309 E. Broad St. • 817-473-3332 alamofeeattorney.com

Old Republic National Title Insurance Co. Honorable Mention: Title Company

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four-time All Star, Old Republic National Title Insurance Co. provides title insurance policies and settlement services to individual customers. The company’s products and services protect customers from financial loss and hardship related to unknown judgments and liens, forged transfers, inconsistencies within a property’s title or misapplication of fiduciary funds.

Old Republic Title delivers exceptional service from the beginning to the end of a transaction. At each stage of the process, highly skilled experienced experts will assist clients – assuring prompt delivery of the company’s products and services.

Old Republic Title recruits and hires individuals with the knowledge, ability, skills and experience in the title industry. Since 1992, no other title insurer has had higher overall ratings. Its unequaled ratings indicate secure claims-paying ability and high financial stability.

Old Republic National Title Insurance Co. The Orchards at Arlington Highlands 131 E. Bardin Road • 817-472-9556 • OrchardsArlingtonHighlands.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

1241 W. Green Oaks Blvd., Suite 101 • 817-457-3930 1405 N. Hwy. 287, Mansfield • 817-453-8104 oldrepublictitle.com

Dr. Venkat Rapuri

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ORTHOPEDIC MEDICINE SPECIALISTS MAKE AN APPOINTMENT | 817.930.2674 THPG.org/OrthopedicMedicineSpecialists Physicians employed by Texas Health Physicians Group practice independently and are not employees or agents of Texas Health Resources hospitals. © 2020

All Stars: Home Life

Pantego Christian Academy Winner: Private School, Preschool / Pre-K

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ultiple-time All Star Pantego Christian Academy has been providing a faith-based education to North Texasarea students for more than half a century.

Pantego Christian proudly serves more than 550 students, who partake in a unique curriculum that focuses on a partnership among the school, parents and the church.

PCA students’ average ACT score is 29.2, compared to the state average of 20.6. Since 1993, the school has produced 11 National Merit Finalists, 24 National Merit Commended, two National Achievement Scholars and three National Hispanic Recognition Scholars. The Class of 2020’s 43 graduates earned $4.3 million in merit-based scholarships.

In addition to the academic regimen, PCA students can participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities, from fine arts to athletics, as well as service organizations designed to help them grow and demonstrate their faith.

Regardless of the endeavor, everything that takes place at Pantego Christian Academy reinforces the Christian values on which the school was founded in 1963. In turn, teachers and students grow together through their faith over time.

The leadership at Pantego Christian Academy takes pride in the school’s diversity, its affordability (notably in the Early Childhood Academy for ages 18 months to PreK) and its ability to maximize the educational experience for all its students and their parents.

To assist with financing, PCA provides tuition assistance to help qualified families defray the cost of a quality Christian school experience.

“We are a family,” says Dr. Kathy Ferrell, Head of School.

“Teachers have one-on-one relationships with the students.

Our families support and love one another. We experience loss and success together. When life happens, PCA is there for one another and the community.”

Pantego Christian Academy 2201 W. Park Row • 817-460-3315 • pantego.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

The Oakridge School Honorable Mention: Private School

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four-time All Star, The Oakridge School serves students and families from 38 cities and 13 countries. Last year, The Oakridge School celebrated its 40th anniversary. With 720 bright, college-bound students enrolled in 15 grade levels, Oakridge offers a full menu of curricular and extracurricular opportunities in a dynamic, studentcentered environment.

The school’s mission is to inspire students to seek their full potential in academics, the arts, and athletics in a challenging and nurturing environment that cultivates social responsibility, mutual respect, and personal integrity.

“When you have a school invested in a child’s whole being, it becomes more than about seeing that individual succeed in the classroom, on stage or on the athletic field. We want them to succeed in life,” says Head of School Jon Kellam. “A parent has described Oakridge as, ‘a wonderful school that is small enough to know you, yet large enough to serve you.’”

The Oakridge School 5900 W. Pioneer Pkwy. • 817-451-4994 • theoakridgeschool.org

Primrose Schools Winner: Day Care HM: Preschool / Pre-K

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four-time All Star, Primrose Schools® is a national system of accredited private preschools that provides a premier early education and child care experience for children and their families.

There are two Primrose Schools in Arlington that partner with parents to help build the right foundation for future learning and in life.

The schools implement a balanced learning approach to preschool education that teams purposeful play and nurturing guidance from teachers. This time-tested approach instills a love of learning and discovery that helps your child develop and excel for years.

The schools’ focus is on what will best serve the needs of children and families with an eye on innovation and advocacy for quality early education for all children.

Primrose Schools 1900 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-543-2626 • primroseNEGreenOaks.com 4621 W. Sublett Road • 817-478-6160 • PrimroseSouthwestArlington.com

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Here’s the deal. The right insurance should help you feel confident and comfortable. I’m the right good neighbor for that. Call me today. ®

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

Al Clark, Agent 2452 W Interstate 20 Arlington, TX 76017 Bus: 817-468-3033 al.clark.b49r@statefarm.com Mon-Fri 9:00am to 5:30pm Most Saturdays 9am ‘til noon Available 24/7 - Call us!

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Winner 2019

Readers’ Choice

Winner 2018, 2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star

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ARLINGTON Today

ARLINGTON Today

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All Star Home/ Auto Insurance

your community • your magazine

your community • your magazine

All Stars: Home Life

Wade Family Funeral Home Winner: Customer Service

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n All Star for the second straight year, Wade Funeral Home has years of experience combined with a highly professional, friendly and compassionate family and staff that has comforted area residents for the past 17 years.

Mike and Amy Wade purchased Wade Funeral Home in Hubbard, Texas in 1985, and built Wade Family Funeral Home in 2003. Mike is owner and funeral director in charge and works along side his son, Blake Wade and daughter, Keely Gillham; both funeral directors.

Mike actively supports the community and is a member of the Arlington Kiwanis Club, downtown Rotary Club, Arlington Historical Society, Arlington High School Alumni Association, Texas Mike and Amy Wade Funeral Directors Association and National Funeral Directors Association.

His wife Amy is the marketing director for Wade Family Funeral Home. She is active with the community, serving on the Arlington ISD Education Foundation Board and as the current president of the Pantego Economic Development Corporation. She also serves on numerous committees of organizations in Arlington. She and Mike are members of First Baptist Church of Arlington.

Mike and Amy have three children and eight grandchildren.

“We are proud to embrace traditional values, diversity and innovation in honoring the spirit and life of each person we serve,” Mike says. “Letting go of a loved one is usually a very difficult process. In order to provide your family peace-of-mind, Wade Family Funeral Home offers complete care, so you can focus on comforting each other as you prepare to say goodbye to someone dear to you. Although there are many decisions you may have to make, we assure you that we will guide you through the entire process every step of the way.”

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Southern Flair Photography Honorable Mention: Photographer

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ver the past 44 years, Southern Flair Photography has delighted some 4,000 brides and grooms with contemporary and classic photography from their weddings. In the meantime, the studio has taken countless portraits of families, children, high school seniors, executive portrait head shots and much more.

So it’s only fitting that owner Dwayne Lee and his daughter Heather would be honored with an All Star award for the third straight year.

Dwayne has earned Master of Photography and Photographic Craftsman Degrees from the Professional Photographers of America, Dwayne Lee and Heather has earned the Photographic Craftsman Degree. This month, Southern Flair Photography, which is the largest and most experienced professional team of photographers in Arlington, is moving to a new office, located at 2550 Legacy Point.

“I wake up every morning excited that I get to do what I absolutely love to do: photography,” Lee says. “And owning my own studio has opened up other interests, including gardening and travel. I am blessed beyond belief.”

Southern Flair Photography 2550 Legacy Point • 817-277-0477 • sflair.com

Tom’s Plumbing, Inc. Winner: Plumbing Company

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om’s Plumbing, Inc., is a back-to-back All Star that has been serving the North Texas area since Tom Chandler created the company in 1956.

Three generations later, Scott and Tony Chandler are continuing the stellar tradition by offering practically every solution to customers’ needs – more than 452,000 solutions over the years, at last count.

Whether you’re building a new house or simply need a leaky faucet fixed, the Tom’s team can help. In fact, it wants to help.

“Even as a third generation family company we still believe that every customer deserves to be treated with respect, should always receive quality workmanship, and should pay fair prices for our work,” Scott Chandler says. “We focus our efforts on making each and every customer happy.”

Wade Family Funeral Home

Tom’s Plumbing, Inc.

4140 W. Pioneer Pkwy. • 817-274-9233 • wadefamilyfuneralhome.com

1232 Colorado Lane, Suite 103 • 817-460-3221 • tomsplumbinginc.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

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Winner 2018-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star Honorable Mention

Honorable Mention

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Best Deli/Sandwich Shop

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Three-Time Winner!

Thank you Arlington Today Readers!

All Star Bariatric Surgeon

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Dr. Clayton A. Frenzel Dual Board Certified

Diplomate: The American Board of Surgery Diplomate: The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery

1000 N. Davis, Suite B • Arlington, TX 76012 817-342-0232 • bodevolve.net arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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All Stars: Home Life

Mansfield Custom Homes Winner: Home Builder

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or the third straight year, Viridian is not only a master-planned community mecca that features an enticing array of amenities for its residents; it’s also an All Star as our readers’ favorite new home development in the Arlington area.

Teeming with wildlife, Viridian boasts a 2,000-acre master plan that includes five major lakes, 500 acres of open space and an additional 500 acres of lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands.

Homes there are just steps away from a thriving town square with retail, business and medical offices, as well as an assortment of amenities for active lifestyles.

With miles of nature trails connecting to the River Legacy Park and the Living Science Center, Viridian is unlike anywhere else in the Metroplex. To wit ...

“Viridian was the first Audobon International Gold Signature Standard community in Texas,” says Robert Kembel, general manager at Viridian, a project of the Johnson Development Group.

The natural habitat – and all its inhabitants – help make Viridian an open door to fun and relaxation for the entire family. From agriculture programs that provide farm-fresh produce to purchase to excursions to dig for dinosaur “bones” at Fossil Park, there is always something to do – and new amenities are routinely added.

For example, the Viridian Lake Club is an exciting, 6-acre peninsula overlooking Lake Viridian, making it one of the focal points of fun in the community. It features five pools, a pavilion, and a small amphitheater. Some 850 acres of open space and lakes and a 150-acre wooded area to explore make interacting with neighbors and nature the norm. Other features include catchand-release fishing, sailing, bird watching, meeting neighbors for bridge or poker, canoeing on Lake Viridian, letting Rover romp at Arrowhead Park, enjoying a girls’ night out at the Women’s Wine Down, or jogging or cycling along miles of pathways that connect with existing River Legacy trails.

Last summer, the development welcomed Viridian Elements, one of the more vibrant, active 55+ lifestyle communities in Texas.

Its Magnolia Lifestyle Center features a state-of-the-art fitness center, demonstration kitchen, and meeting facilities.

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ansfield Custom Homes proudly notes that it “builds dreams from the ground up.” Based on the fact that this is the company’s fifth straight appearance on our All Star team, the custom home company obviously also meets its customers’ expectations – even those of the “wildest dream” variety.

“Mansfield Custom Homes is truly a custom builder,” says Julie Short, the real estate specialist at the company. “Start with your dream, and the MCH team will make it your address.”

Short says she and her team led by owner (and her husband) Stoney Short will work with each customer during every step of the process.

The design team helps you choose stylish finishes that fit your liking, the real estate team helps find the ideal location, and the construction team does the rest.

You? You get to live your dream – or, at least, live in your dream home.

Mansfield Custom Homes 1107 Knoll Crest Dr., Mansfield • 682-518-1158 • mchtexas.com

72sold / Brawn Sterling Real Estate Winner: Property Manager

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aking its All Star debut this year, 72sold/Brawn Sterling Real Estate has developed an easy, extremely fast way for homeowners to sell their property and get a fair market price in the process.

72sold has developed a way to identify the best buyers for your home within days (72 hours, in fact), while it is new and fresh on the market, the time when buyers pay more. The real estate specialist then creates an auction-like environment where buyers bid against each other and drive up your price. The result is that a high percentage of 72sold homes sell for thousands over the seller’s asking price.

And now you know why this company is an All Star.

Viridian

72sold / Brawn Sterling Real Estate

1200 Viridian Park Lane, Arlington • 817-200-6543 • viridiandfw.com

200 S. 14th St. #100, Midlothian • 469-337-9823 • 72solddfwarea.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

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

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

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

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

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

One option is traditional courtroom litigation.

Another option is collaborative divorce.

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

Litigator; Collaborator; Mediator

Winner 2018-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Divorce Attorney - by Arlington Today Readers

arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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All Stars: Home Life ... Store Front

Richter Animal Hospital & Pet Resort

C & W Antiques

Winner: Veterinarian

Readers’ Choice All Star for the third straight year, C&W Antiques offers unique, rare and interesting furniture and accessories not found at most stores stateside.

From their flagship showroom in Grand Prairie, Co-proprietors Jim Carpenter and Patrick Walsh create an inviting ambiance with fragrant Market candles, music and vignettes of old-world rooms that stimulate the senses.

“C&W Antiques’ philosophy is to make each customer feel welcome,” Walsh says. “With our passion for antiques, we welcome each customer and provide a friendly atmosphere for their unique shopping experience. We treat each customer like family.”

C&W Antiques specializes in 17th, 18th and 19th century English and French furniture. It also has an exquisite collection of original fine art by Italian, French, Russian, English and U.S. artists, and its Faberge Collection is the largest in the state of Texas and perhaps the world.

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ichter Animal Hospital & Pet Resort is a full-service veterinary hospital – with emphasis on “full service.” The entire team at Richter Animal Hospital & Pet Resort is devoted to providing the highest standard of veterinary care for your pets while exceeding your expectations in serving you.

Richter Animal Hospital & Pet Resort offers the Arlington community wellness care, vaccines, spaying/neutering and emergency veterinary services, as well as medical, surgical and dental veterinary care.

With an in-house pharmacy, diagnostic laboratory and access to specialists, Richter Animal Hospital & Pet Resort offers a one-stop location for your pet’s health and medical care. In addition, you won’t find a cleaner, safer place to board your pets with people who really care about them.

Winner: Antiques

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Richter Animal Hospital & Pet Resort

C & W Antiques

4601 W. Sublett Road • 817-478-8000 • richteranimalhospital.com

2100 N. Hwy. 360, Suite 705-706, Grand Prairie • 817-637-7637 • candwantiques.com

Pet Resort in the Gardens

Dixie’s Charms & More

Winner: Pet Care/Grooming, Pet Boarding

Winner: Jeweler

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our-time All Star Pet Resort in the Gardens continues to be a local success story for owners Mary and Dr. Jim Turner.

“I was born in Arlington. Jim moved here when he was less than a year old, so doing business here is personal,” Mary says. “Our customers are our neighbors, friends and family whom we never want to disappoint. We take very seriously the care entrusted to us of pets who are so much more than just pets; they are family.”

Jim began working at Farrell Animal Hospital in 1980, purchasing it in 1990. Along with Mary, they opened the Pet Resort in 2010. “We shared the dream of improving the way pet boarding was historically handled, and Pet Resort in the Gardens is that dream come true,” she says. With comfortable lofts and suites, indoor/outdoor play yards, obedience training and premium bathing and spa services, Pet Resort in the Gardens provides your pet with personalized, protected play and a pampered stay. Mary adds, “Our dedicated team members are the real winners of this award! They give heart and soul to the well-being of our guests and provide exceptional customer care.”

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s Dixie’s celebrates some four decades of providing unique jewelry and gifts to happy North Texas customers, the popular retailer is marking another milestone: its fifth All Star award. Owners Kandy King and Glenn Hargrove continue to enhance a tradition established by their late mother Dixie, helping the business evolve from primarily a wholesaler of fashion jewelry and sterling silver to a retail operation that also sells a wide range of gift items.

“We’re so proud to operate our business here in our hometown of Arlington,” King says. “We’ve loved being a part of the Gracie Lane family for the past six years.”

King says she and her team have a simple philosophy. “Mom (Dixie) always said ‘Take care of your customers, and everything else will take care of itself,’” she says. “The top priority for myself, Glenn and our great staff is to make every shopping experience at Dixie’s a great one. We work at seeking out unique and quality gift items that are reasonably priced. Value and selection are critical, but those don’t mean much without great customer service.”

Pet Resort in the Gardens

Dixie’s Charms & More

2890-A W. Pioneer Pkwy. • 817-635-5510 • petresortinthegardens.com

4720 S. Cooper St. • 817-649-1112 • dixiesonline.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

clothing + shoes jewelry + accessories children’s clothing home decor + furnishings

4720 S. Cooper Street Arlington, Texas 76017 (817) 468-5263 Monday - Saturday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Following all state Covid-19 guidelines. arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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All Stars: Store Front

Texas Appliance Winner: Appliance Store

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exas Appliance is making its debut on our Readers’ Choice All Star Team this year.

With roots back to the 1940’s, Texas Appliance is an established, locally owned and operated, major appliance retailer serving both residential and builders’ needs. The company operates its’ retail division from three professionally staffed and well appointed showrooms in South Arlington, Hurst and Fort Worth along with its outlet store in Pantego.

Their beautiful showrooms offer a full spectrum of appliances to meet practically every household need.

With more than 40 major quality brands, Texas Appliance has one of the largest displays of built-in and free-standing appliances in the state of Texas. Whether you need a new refrigerator or are looking to upgrade your washer and dryer, Texas Appliance provides a full array of options to help you find what you need.

From the economical to the luxury brands, Texas Appliance offers refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, washers and dryers, indoor and outdoor cooking appliances, ice makers, wine coolers, disposers, trash compactors, mattresses and more, all of which can be delivered straight to your home.

With an experienced staff of contract sales representatives, Texas Appliance will meet with builders or their customers at their offices, job sites or in the showroom to assist in the selection, installation and demonstration of the appliance package. The business’ large fleet of company owned trucks delivers and installs daily to 15 counties, including and surrounding the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Texas Appliance operates its business in accordance with their mission statement: “We will be the best appliance dealer in our markets by exceeding our customers’ expectations in every way. We will treat our customers, vendors and fellow employees with respect, honesty, integrity and appreciation. The difference between a ‘Good’ company and a ‘Great’ company lies in its’ employees’ determination.”

Our readers have clearly concluded that Texas Appliance is a “Great” company.

Texas Appliance Arlington showroom: 1500 I-20 East • 817-299-2800 Arlington outlet: 3401 W. Pioneer Parkway • 817-299-2800 • txappliance.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Gracie Lane Winner: Boutique Honorable Mention: Gift Shop

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f this is the annual All Star edition, you can count on one local company, Gracie Lane, earning a spot (or two) in the winner’s circle. Indeed, this is the seventh time the popular local retail center has been chosen to our prestigious team.

Since opening in 2014, Gracie Lane has rapidly become recognized as the Arlington area’s “go to” shopping destination for clothing, jewelry, home decor, gifts and more.

Gracie Lane is also renowned for great value and a regularly rotating stream of products, the combination of which makes this Arlington treasure a one-of-a-kind shopping experience customers love.

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

Macken says Gracie Lane is like a collection of your favorite things – and those you haven’t yet found – all in one pretty package.

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

Jazzy Jems Honorable Mention: Boutique

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azzy Jems owner Teenya Blanchard has found a legion of fashion followers who love her store – so much, in fact, that they have voted it to our All Star team multiple times over the past seven years.

Jazzy Jems is a boutique that features trendy clothing, jewelry, gift items and more. There’s also some news regarding the store that Blanchard is especially excited about sharing: Jazzy Jems has moved to a new location: 2005 Roosevelt Drive in Pantego.

Customers can visit the store by appointment from Monday through Wednesday. It is open from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

“I also want to make sure our customers check out the store website, JazzyJems.com, where we offer 24/7 Freeship,” Blanchard says.

There they can shop online for all the latest products, including dresses, tops and bottoms, jewelry, shoes, gift items, coffee and spices and Rodan & Field items. And they can get a jump on sales as they take place.

Jazzy Jems 2005 Roosevelt Drive, Pantego • 817-266-3900 • jazzyjems.com

SAVE THE DATE! Thur Sept 10th, 2020

ON T HE

ROAD AGAI N

5:30-7:30 p.m.

Downtown Arlington’s Annual Meeting 2020 Join us for a free virtual Downtown Community Picnic to celebrate Downtown Arlington’s revitalization For sponsorship info, contact Maggie Campbell at maggie@downtownarlington.org

LANDSCAPE, LANDSCAPE DESIGN, AND LAWN MAINTENANCE We don’t just sell landscaping with a guarantee, we sell outdoor solutions with peace of mind.

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817-860-0905 • BALDIGARDENS.COM Awarded 30+ Super Service Awards from Angie’s List! arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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All Stars: Store Front

Anything Goes

Maggie & Me Boutique

Winner: Gift Shop

Winner: Baby / Children’s Boutique

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n 2012, Mary Davis’ dream of opening an eclectic gift shop became a reality when Anything Goes opened its doors at 2504 W. Park Row in Pantego. Eight years later, she’s celebrating her fifth All Star award.

Mary and her husband Doug are longtime residents of Pantego/ Arlington. She grew up in the Woodland West area, graduated from Arlington High School and worked for Arlington OB/GYN Associates for more than 30 years. Doug has worked for the Town of Pantego for more than 30 years as Police Chief, Director of Public Safety and, currently, as the town’s Mayor.

Since opening, Anything Goes has grown from 1,200 square feet to almost 4,000 square Mary Davis feet of retail space that features products that meet the needs of customers of all ages. “I work hard to find our customers new products so they have the diversity in the gifts that they’re giving and there’s always something new and fresh for them on the shelves,” Mary says. “Anything Goes prides itself in the level of customer service that we provide and making everyone feel at home the minute they walk in the door.”

n All Star for the second consecutive year, Maggie and Me Boutique is a family owned classic children’s clothing store located in the heart of Arlington. The shop carries noted brands, including The Proper Peony, The Beaufort Bonnet Company, Kissy Kissy, JoJo Maman Bébé, James and Lottie, Feltman Brothers and many more.

Maggie and Me Boutique has everything you will need to dress your infant through size 4 toddler. Maggie and Me Boutique offers a onestop shop for parents and grandparents who believe that every day is worth celebrating with their little ones.

Owner Karen Tilley has over 10 years of retail experience. Her family members are longtime residents of Arlington. “After my first grandchild was born, I realized there was a need for a quality children’s store in the area,” Tilley says. “The store is located in the Village Park Shopping Center, so it is accessible to all areas in Arlington, Dalworthington Gardens, Mansfield and Pantego.”

Anything Goes

Maggie & Me Boutique

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

2200 W. Park Row, Suite C, Pantego • 817-987-1100 • maggieandmeboutique.com

Hiltons Flooring

Urban Country Flower Co.

Winner: Flooring Store

Winner: Florist

C

T

elebrating its fifth straight All Star appearance, Hiltons Flooring is an ideal one-stop showroom for practically any floor-covering need. Since 2013, Hiltons Flooring has been an accredited business with an A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Hiltons’ Vice President of Sales, Kateri Dodson, says the company is devoted to providing the best and largest selection of carpet, hardwood, laminate vinyl, tile and stone in a friendly, comfortable and helpful atmosphere.

“We offer the largest selection of floor covering in the Tarrant County area,” she says. “We also have design professionals on premise, complimentary in-home design consultation, free in-home measuring and estimates and installation.”

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

72

his is the second straight All Star appearance for Urban Country Flower Co. The unique business has captured the hearts of area shoppers as a European-style fresh/silk bucket shop that has something for just about everyone.

Urban Country Flower Co. has become a go-to place for flowers for events, weddings, parties, and holiday decorations. It also specializes in arrangements for anniversaries, birthdays, get well, “I’m sorry,” “Congratulations!” and “Just because.”

Its retail shop also carries home gifts, garden gifts and accessories, both vintage and new. Gift and accessory items include gourmet food, coffee, fragrances, t-shirts and hats.

Urban Country Flower Co. also offers curbside pickup and noncontact local deliveries. Urban Country Flower Co. is a Premier Florist on Bloom Nation (bloomnation.com), which arranges flower deliveries all across the country at the click of a mouse.

Hiltons Flooring

Urban Country Flower Co.

2800 W. Division St. • 817-461-5189 • hiltonsflooring.com

2234 W. Park Row Drive, Suite D Village Park • 817-987-9228 • urbancountryflowerco.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

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Ask about our Facial Club! Invest in your skin - it’s affordable, effective and will be with you a lifetime! arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

73

All Stars: Wellness

The Pilates Effect Winner: Exercise / Fitness Studio, Yoga / Barre Studio

A

three-time Readers’ Choice All Star, The Pilates Effect opened in April 2017 and is a fully equipped Pilates Studio dedicated to the overall well being of its clients.

Studio Owner/Instructor Cami Green says she has long wanted to teach and help people accomplish their health and fitness goals by means of Pilates.

“The Pilates training that we offer is geared toward the individual, their needs and specifications to their body type, fitness level and or any issues keeping them from their goals,” Green says. “We are trained to deal with these different body types and needs and on how to correct them. Our studio and type of Pilates training isn’t a one-size-fits-all; it’s Cami Green specific to the individual.”

The Pilates Effect is a fully equipped Pilates studio, offering classes for every fitness level and private sessions for more individualized private Pilates training.

The Pilates Effect Shoppes at Brownstone Village, 2410 W. Abram St., Suite 112 • 214-558-0996 thepilateseffect.com

Dr. Clayton Frenzel Winner: Bariatric Surgeon

D

r. Clayton Frenzel, the primary physician at BodEvolve Bariatric & Cosmetic Surgery, is making his third consecutive appearance on our All Star team. Women and men in the DFW area visit Dr. Frenzel for surgical and non-surgical cosmetic enhancements, many of which are life-changing procedures.

He is dual Board Certified by both The American Board of Surgery and The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.

Dr. Frenzel is one of only a handful of surgeons in the country that has not only completed a bariatric surgery fellowship but also a cosmetic surgery fellowship. He understands all the complex issues that a pre- and post-bariatric patient may face not only from a medical and cosmetic standpoint, but also from a mental aspect. Working with bariatric patients is not just a career for Dr. Frenzel, but one of his passions. He believes that there is not one operation that is right for every patient and takes an individualized approach to finding which operation is right for you. He participates in mission trips and he proudly tells everyone he grew up in Arlington and came back to practice in his hometown.

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My Nurse Family Winner: Home Health Care

M

aking its All Star debut this year, My Nurse Family is a locally-owned home care company servicing the entire DFW Metroplex.

My Nurse Family is veteran owned and operated and offers 24/7 care to the clients it serves. The company’s story began in Arlington with a mission to help your loved ones stay at home. As the name suggests, its caregivers are like family and will give you a reason to smile, jokes to make you laugh and a shoulder to cry on.

Founder Joseph Kincey is a veteran who served in the U.S. Marine Corp. He has a background in military, leadership and business. He grew a passion for seniors during his time working with adult protection services in Texas and acting as the caregiver for his family. He started My Nurse Family to help cultivate a safe and comfortable environment for people to stay at home and receive the care they need.

To that end, My Nurse Family plans are catered to your specific needs and interests. Its caregivers can help you maintain your independence and stay in a comfortable environment, while they address your various needs, including: • Companionship, cooking, housekeeping and personal care – Caregivers can cook delicious meals that provide the nutrition you need – and can accommodate special diets. Don’t feel like vacuuming? No worries, caregivers handle the cleaning.

Having a companion to help with daily chores and meals can go a long way.

• Alzheimer’s and dementia care – My Nurse Family caregivers are experienced in accommodating memory-related challenges for their clients to offer safe and reliable care, right at home.

• Skilled nursing – My Nurse Family is licensed for skilled nursing and has a registered nurse in its office seven days a week to address any medical needs that may arise.

My Nurse Family caregivers are carefully selected to match your needs, interests, and preferences. During the company’s interview process, administrators find caregivers that are passionate about making a difference in people’s lives. They conduct background checks, check prospective caregivers’ certification, and provide training with Director of Nursing Angel Montez, who also served in the military and shares Kincey’s passion for taking care of serving senior citizens.

BodEvolve Bariatric & Cosmetic Surgery

My Nurse Family

1000 N. Davis, Suite B • 817-342-0232 • bodevolve.net

3611 W. Pioneer Parkway • 817-405-2927 • mynursefamily.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Dr. Amy Schoening started her practice in Mansfield in January of this year with a simple principle: Every patient is different, and every person’s individual needs are unique. That’s why Dr. Schoening and her staff strive to get to know each patient and work with them oneon-one to develop a treatment plan that fits their specific needs.

“Every treatment plan is uniquely designed, but the goal is always the same - a healthy mouth, strong and functional teeth free of pain, and a beautiful smile that builds confidence,” Dr. Schoening says.

“At Schoening, DDS, patients can expect the highest quality of customized care, because to us it’s not just about teeth, it’s about people and their quality of life.”

Dr. Schoening has deep roots in dentistry, having practiced for more than two and half decades, most recently in Arlington before taking a year off to prepare for the opening of Amy Schoening, DDS. She says she is excited about her new venture – and her new

opportunity to transform lives by giving people back a smile her patients can be proud of.

“With time to reflect over the last year, I’m planning to build a perfect, small dental practice that will reflect me and my vision for dental care. Practicing will be both fun and rewarding for many years to come.”

Amy Schoening, DDS provides comprehensive dental care, including a hygiene program, periodontal therapy, crowns, bridges, and fillings. She also offers state-of-the-art solutions with regards to cosmetic dentistry, implant services and Invisalign.

“I think my fierce attention to detail and always trying to treat the patient as an individual – not just treating their teeth – is important,” she says. “Also, I’ve always tried to treat others the way I would want to be treated. My leadership style comes from my heart and a place of compassion.”

While the services she provides patients include those staples of the practice, that’s not what she believes will set Amy Schoening, DDS apart.

Winner 2020

Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today

All Star Family Dentist

your community • your magazine

1757 Broad Park Circle North, Suite 101, Mansfield • 817-992-9201 • www.schoeningdds.com

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arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

75

All Stars: Wellness

Dr. Joan Bergstrom

Dr. Jason Butler

Winner: OB / GYN

Winner: Pain Management

F

D

or the past six years, Dr. Joan Bergstrom, founder of Women’s Health Services, has been chosen by our readers as the All Star winner in the OB / GYN category. Dr. Bergstrom started Women’s Health Services in 1986 when she completed her residency in Kansas City, Kansas, and moved to Arlington to become the first female Ob-Gyn in the city.

Beginning in August, the group will add a seventh physician, Dr. Maya Kuriakose. She joins Joan Bergstrom, Dawnette Pepper, Kiran Nangrani, Sheri Puffer, Joy Carter and Jessica Brown.

WHS has two locations in Arlington.

The North office is located adjacent to Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital, where the group does all deliveries and inpatient surgeries. The South office is at Cooper and Wimbledon, just south of I-20.

Women’s Health Services has been a steady provider of women’s healthcare for over 30 years. Patients can count on Dr. Bergstrom and her colleagues to be accessible for any female issues from puberty through menopause.

The doctors of WHS provide services for pregnancy, birth control, heavy periods, treatment for uterine prolapse and urinary incontinence, menopausal hormonal changes and well woman exams.

The group performs all their in-patient hospital services at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital, Arlington’s Community Hospital, which promotes the highest standard of health care for all patients in the Metroplex. Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital finished a complete renovation of the Women’s Services facility last year.

Women’s Health Services offers full obstetrical and gynecological services. The team’s philosophy is to promote a comfortable atmosphere with expert services in all aspects of female health. The practice has an electronic appointment booking system and are upgrading the system to include an app to access and update patient health records and communicate with the staff and doctors of WHS through your cell phone.

Women’s Health Services 1101 N. Waldrop, Suite 505 • 817-591-2715 • 5005 S. Cooper St., Suite 275 • 817-677-1003 womenshealthservices.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

r. Jason Butler is honored to have been selected as a Reader’s Choice All Star in Pain Management for the third year in a row and would like to thank the community and his many patients for their continued trust and support throughout the years. That support has helped grow his practice and the services he provides, while giving him an opportunity to give back to the communities he serves.

In his continuing efforts to provide the highest standards of patient care and service, his current practice, Arlington Pain & Therapy, has just completed construction on a beautiful new 20,000 square foot facility conveniently located in Mansfield. The larger facility will allow for all services to be under one roof and provide new and existing patients with state-of-the-art programs, treatments and amenities. And, the recent move to Mansfield comes with a new name, Regency Pain & Therapy Institute, a name the practice feel exemplifies their ability to help patients redefine their pain so they can get back to the life they enjoy.

Regency Pain & Therapy Institute offers cutting-edge pain management techniques and technology. Dr. Butler and his team focus on decreasing a patient’s pain while increasing their productivity, minimizing medication use, maximizing physical activity, and improving quality of life. The doctors at Regency Pain & Therapy Institute always strive to be as conservative as possible and only progress to more interventional treatments, as needed.

At Regency Pain & Therapy Institute, you’ll find a team that takes a whole-body approach to your care. Instead of focusing on treating a few symptoms, the doctors’ focus on treating the whole person; diagnosing your pain and finding the best, most meaningful way to reduce it and restore your function. Some of the conditions they treat include chronic pain, fibromyalgia, rhizotomy, sciatica, neck pain, back pain, abdominal pain, auto accident injuries, scoliosis, and neuropathy.

Dr. Butler’s goal is to reduce pain to its lowest possible level and limit the impact it has on the lives of the patients he treats.

A recent patient’s feedback reflects on this commitment, “the best doctors and staff anywhere and more pain relief than I have received in 16 years. I highly recommend!”

Regency Pain & Therapy Institute 74 Regency Parkway, Mansfield • 817-419-6111 • painandtherapy.com

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arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

77

All Stars: Wellness

Dr. Alfred DiStefano Winner: Oncologist

F

or the fifth straight year, Dr. Alfred DiStefano has been selected by our readers as the area’s favorite oncologist.

Dr. DiStefano founded Arlington Cancer Center four decades ago with a vision to craft a medical facility that would be all-inclusive for patients undergoing cancer treatment – the diagnostic and therapeutic modalities would all take place under one roof.

It was a revolutionary concept in 1980, and it not only became the norm for the center, but a model for effective cancer treatment all around the country and internationally.

Last year, Arlington Cancer Center became part of Texas Oncology and is now Texas Oncology-Arlington Cancer Center North. Dr. DiStefano says he is proud of the direction Arlington Cancer Center took at the outset of the practice – and still takes today. “Over the years, we have stayed true to that principle,” he says. “Our dedication to providing a broad range of services, in combination with compassionate patient-oriented care, allows us to give our patients the opportunity to access high quality care while remaining outpatient and close to home.”

Dr. DiStefano is joined at the center by four other cancer specialists: Dr. John Adams, Dr. Puneet K. Dhillon, Dr. Scott Fleischauer and Dr. Anwar Khurshid. Together, they offer more than 100 years of combined research, teaching and practical experience in treating solid tumors, blood cancers and blood disorders at some of the premier national and international cancer centers and medical schools. They understand that patients want an innovative partner to help them make the most informed decisions about their care and future.

That’s why Texas Oncology-Arlington Cancer Center North offers a comprehensive outpatient environment and why the doctors take pride in providing diagnosis, treatment, education and support services to adult cancer patients from around the world.

“Our goal is to lessen the stress of treatment so you can focus on your recovery,” Dr. DiStefano says. “We make it easier by offering all of our services under one roof.”

Texas Oncology-Arlington Cancer Center North 906 W. Randol Mill Road, Suite 200. • 817-261-4906 • texasoncology.com/cancer-centers/ arlington/arlington-cancer-center-north/medical-oncology

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Arlington / Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers Winner: Podiatrist

F

or the fourth straight year, Arlington / Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers, a part of StrideCare, made our All Star team. The practice features a roster of dedicated, experienced and Board Certified physicians of podiatric surgery that includes John R. Landry, DPM; Joe Southerland, DPM; R. Warren, DPM; Linnie Rabjohn, DPM; and Ryan Lawrence, DPM. Arlington / Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers makes it easy for patients to access advanced foot and ankle care. Committed to the use of the latest cutting-edge technologies, the team of physicians use methods such as digital X-rays, CT scanners, lasers, and shockwave therapy to produce the most accurate diagnosis and ensure optimal results for each patient.

The practice provides care for everything ranging from common concerns like ingrown nails and gout to injuries, sprains, fractures and diabetes-related issues.

Arlington / Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers Arlington: 400 W. Arbrook Blvd., Ste. 201 Mansfield: 1001 Matlock Road, #103 • 817-467-1990 • footanklecenters.com

Dr. Kenyon Godwin Winner: Chiropractor, Holistic Medicine, Wellness Center Honorable Mention: Pain Management

I

n each of the past seven years, Dr. Kenyon Godwin, founder of Active Family Wellness Center, has been named an All Star by our readers.

This year, he earned the distinction in three categories.

Dr. Godwin founded his practice in 2010, and six years later, Active Family Wellness Center was named the Arlington Chamber of Commerce’s Veteran-owned Small Business of the Year. The practice has become so highly regarded by patients that Dr. Godwin opened a second office in the North Arlington area a little over a year ago.

“We believe people should have the freedom to pursue their purpose without limitations!” Dr. Godwin says. “AFWC offers an effective lifestyle modification program utilizing Functional Medicine. This program incorporates the best of wellness: Chiropractic, Nutrition, Detox, Comprehensive labs, Supplements, Massage, Fitness, Mentorship and Meditation / Prayer. Our catalyzing statement is to make Arlington the healthiest city in the state of Texas.”

Active Family Wellness Center 4927 S. Collins St., Suite 105 • 817-618-6730 • 4120 N. Collins St., Ste 200 • 817-557-2770 txwellnessdoc.com

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One of the most popular restaurants in the Metroplex, Piccolo Mondo is known for its exceptional food and atmosphere.

For all your business lunches, holiday family dinners or just a romantic night out, it’s simple. Piccolo Mondo.

Winner

All Star Italian All Star Cuisine 2018-2020 Readers’ Choice

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

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Takeout available. Fax 817.226.3474 arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

79

All Stars: Wellness

Dr. Moody Alexander Winner: Orthodontist

I

n what is fast becoming a tradition, Dr. Moody Alexander is a member of our All Star team again. For those keeping score at home, this is the sixth time our readers have chosen him and his staff among their favorites in the area.

Dr. Alexander heads Drs Alexander Orthodontics, which has long been known as one of Arlington’s more prominent family practices. Over the past five and a half decades, Drs Alexander Orthodontics has focused on providing orthodontic treatment for children and adults, many of whom have become like family to Dr. Alexander and his staff.

“We work hard to provide a 5-star service Photo: www.kristinjphotography.com experience for our patients, from their initial phone call to the ‘getting braces off’ celebration,” Dr. Alexander says. “We understand that the orthodontic journey is so much more than just straightening teeth. We count it a privilege to get to know our patients and their families and strive to be the best part of our patients’ day.”

Another thing that sets the practice apart is its yearning to “give back.”

“We realize the incredible blessings that we have in our lives and try to live by the passage from Luke that says ‘to whom much is given, much is required,’” Dr. Alexander says. “That’s why we developed our wooden nickel program. Twice a year, we provide an opportunity for patients to be involved with a humanitarian project by donating wooden nickels they earned by being good patients. It is a beautiful thing watching patients give back out of their nickels they have worked hard to earn.”

Dr. Alexander and his wife Emily have seven children, including three adopted children from Ethiopia, where he conducted dental health-based mission trips for several years before the political climate made it difficult to return. That did not deter him from giving back, however, especially in the local community, where Drs Alexander Orthodontics partners with like-minded organizations in town: Young Life, Arlington Southwest Little League, Gospel City Church, Pantego Christian Academy, Alliance for Children, Mission Arlington, Dental Health of Arlington, “and various organizations that we support through our patients, also.”

Last year, Dr. Alexander was presented the Humanitarian Award by the American Association of Orthodontists.

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FunDentist-Pediatric DentistryHyde, Miller & Associates Winner: Pediatric Dentist

T

he pediatric specialists at FunDentist-Pediatric Dentistry- Hyde, Miller & Associates believe that a child’s visit to the dentist – whether it’s the first or the 21st – should not only be as painless as possible, but enjoyable, as well.

That’s why they have crafted four offices in the area filled with children-friendly decor and interactive items that help ease the fear that might be associated with a dental visit. In turn, their patients’ parents have crafted a “thank you” note in the form of a vote for the “Fun Dentists” as a 2020 All Star.

Each office offers a unique open concept that provides a cheerful and enthusiastic environment to educate and promote oral health for the children of the community.

While they’re awaiting the dentist, the kids often get to meet a practice staple: Adam the Alligator, who also helps keep things fun.

FunDentist - Pediatric Dentistry - Hyde, Miller & Associates North: 801 W. Road to Six Flags, Ste. 101 • 817-459-1313 • South: 4220 Little Road • 817-478-2300 Central: 3101 S. Center St. • 817-466-7057 • Mansfield: 2300 Matlock Road, Suite 28 • 817-539-0500 fundentist.com

Dr. Amy Schoening Winner: Family Dentist

D

r. Amy Schoening is a multiple-time All Star, but this is her first win at her new Mansfield practice, Amy Schoening DDS. Dr. Schoening and her staff are devoted to a simple principle: Every patient is different, and every person’s individual needs are unique.

“That’s why we strive to get to know each patient and work with them one-on-one to develop a treatment plan that fits their specific needs,” she says. “Every treatment plan is uniquely designed, but the goal is always the same: a healthy mouth, strong and functional teeth free of pain, and a beautiful smile that builds confidence.”

Dr. Schoening has practiced dentistry for more than two and half decades, most recently in Arlington before taking a year off to prepare for the opening of Amy Schoening, DDS. The practice offers comprehensive dental care, cosmetic dentistry, implant services and Invisalign.

“With time to reflect over the last year, I’m planning to build a perfect, small dental practice that will reflect me and my vision for dental care,” Dr. Schoening says. “Practicing will be both fun and rewarding for many years to come.”

Drs Alexander Orthodontics

Schoening DDS

840 W. Mitchell St. • 817-275-3233 • drsalexander.com

1757 Broad Park Circle North, Suite 101, Mansfield • 817-992-9201 • schoeningdds.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

The Only Locally Owned National Bank in Arlington Winner

2018-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Local Bank

Winner 2020

Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Customer Service/Banking

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your community • your magazine

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817-277-2221

as s o C i a t e s

1926 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd.

Arlington, TX 76017

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4100 N. Collins, Suite 200 Arlington, TX 76005

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Winner 2020

Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Family Dr. An Wong, D.O. Physician

arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

81

All Stars: Wellness

An Bui Wong, D.O. Winner: Family Physician

M

aking her debut on the Arlington Area All Star team, An Bui Wong, D.O., an Arlington native and TCOM/Baylor/Lamar alumna, joined Family HealthCare Associates in 2009.

She is a board certified family medicine physician and is proud to serve her community alongside her esteemed colleagues at Family HealthCare Associates, a physicianowned organization that has served the healthcare needs of the Dallas/ Fort Worth area for over 50 years.

“While healthcare has seen many changes in those 50 years, our focus on providing high-quality care to our patients has always remained the same,” Dr. Wong says. “We now offer telehealth services and continue to keep patient safety as our top priority.”

To stay on the cutting edge professionally, Dr. Wong is actively involved in several medical organizations. Her interests include spending time with her family, women’s health issues, Trinity Habitat for Humanity, the Mission Arlington Clinic and Feed By Grace.

Family HealthCare Associates - Fielder Clinic 1300 S. Fielder Road • 817-277-2221 • fhcatx.com/locations/fielder-clinic

Arlington Family Practice Honorable Mention: Family Physician Practice

T

hree-time All Star Arlington Family Practice, P.A. was established in 1977 by Dr. Dean Peyton and a partner. Since that time the practice has believed – and continues to believe – that quality is more important than quantity.

Practice principals Sherley Aramath, M.D., Laura Rice, D.O., Tien Truong, D.O., and Kaitlyn Gorman, FNP-C, want their patients to feel like this is where they belong and that they can trust Arlington Family Practice with their health care and help them become healthier individuals. The practice motto is “modern medicine with old fashioned care.”

“We treat each other with respect, and like family,” says Practice Administrator Patricia Gouldy. “I believe this feeling is reflected to our patients when they come. If a patient comes in with an acute illness, we want to make sure we try and follow up with them in 48 hours to make sure they are doing better.”

Arlington Family Practice, P.A. 2415 Matlock Road • 817-277-6444 • arlingtonfp.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers Winner: Weight Loss Program

A

three-time Readers’ Choice All Star, Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers were created by Dr. Richard Knight in Mansfield in 2011 with a mission to help the community get healthy and lose excess weight.

Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers provide a medically monitored weight loss program that specializes in personal treatment for each patient. Before patients even begin the program they receive an EKG and undergo blood work that tests for cholesterol and thyroid levels. This evaluation also includes: BMI, weight, height, vitals, a B12 injection and Amino appetite suppressants.

The initial examination takes an hour.

Thereafter, patients come in weekly to receive vitals, BMI, weigh in, and they are able to meet with Dr. Richard Knight to determine how they can achieve the healthiest of results.

“At DSC you get weekly energy and vitamin injections, individualized counseling and FDA approved medications,” Dr. Knight says. “There are no prepackaged foods to worry about, and we even encourage you to eat out!”

Dr. Knight says Diet Solutions Centers strive to achieve the best results for every individual patient. “In order to achieve the best results, each patient will select the supplements that adhere to his or her goal,” he says.

To help patients reach their weight-loss/heath goals, DSC offers “extras,” including Skinny Mini Me Fat Burner, which leads to a significant reduction in hunger levels, an increase of lean muscle, a reduction in total body fat, a reduction of thigh and hip fat and waist circumference, and anti-cellulite effects. DSC also offers Skinny Mini Me Fat Blocker, which assists in re-sizing your thighs, and burns more fat faster for a flat belly and lean legs and arms, and Skinny Shots, which improve fat-burning metabolism, decrease unwanted water retention, help maintain blood sugar levels, decrease mild signs of depression, normalize appetite, and produce greater levels of energy and less fatigue.

Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers Pantego: 2542 W. Pioneer Pkwy. • 817-277-3438 Mansfield: 920 Hwy. 287 N., Suite 306 • 817-453-3438 • dietsolutioncenters.com

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2017-2020 Readers’ Choice

your community • your magazine

All Star All Star All Star Chiropractor Holistic Medicine Wellness Center

4120 N. Collins St., #200 Arlington, Tx 76005 • 817-618-6730

- Thank You Arlington Today Readers! Winner 2017-2020

4X Winner!

All Star All Star Sports ARLINGTON Bar Today Readers’ Choice

your community • your magazine

Honorable Mention

2018

Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Place for Live Music

Join Us on the Patio!

400 E. Abram St. Arlington Texas 76010

817-274-8561 Restaurant Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11am-9pm Friday and Saturday 11am-10pm - Open 7 days a week -

• 3pm to Close, 7 Days a Week • Drive Thru Open • Order Online. Via Facebook too!

• Order our favorite Frozen Margarita or Pina Colada or world-famous Irish Nachos • Late Night Menu

For info about our great food, cool music, catering and more head to www.jgilligans.com arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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All Stars: Wellness

Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital Winner: Hospital-Patient Care HM: Emergency Room

T

exas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital has earned Readers’ Choice All Star awards in each of the polls we’ve published.

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

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

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

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

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

It is also designated as a Magnet hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, an honor that recognizes hospitals for excellence in nursing, and was the first facility in Arlington to earn the designation.

In 2019, Texas Health Arlington Memorial received a Get With The Guidelines® award for stroke and/or heart failure care, earning Gold Plus and Target Heart Failure Honor Roll award levels.

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Medical City Arlington Winner: Hospital

M

edical City Arlington is celebrating its seventh All Star Award this year, a fitting tribute from our readers in recognition of a celebrated healthcare team that is dedicated to meeting patients’ needs, whatever they might be.

The medical center opened in 1976 as Arlington Community Hospital in a rural part of town and has evolved over the next 40-plus years into a 432-bed full-service hospital that features more than 1,400 full-time and part-time nurses, therapists, technicians and other healthcare personnel.

In the process, Medical City Arlington has continued to be recognized as not only one of the region’s premier medical centers, but one of the best hospitals in the country.

It has been designated a Level II Trauma Center by the Texas Department of State Health Services, making it the first and only hospital in Arlington to achieve this distinguished classification. A Level II trauma designation represents the second-highest level of trauma designation available. The hospital’s emergency medicine team, made up of board-certified physicians, nurses and specialists, treats about 2,000 trauma patients annually.

Earlier this year, Medical City Arlington was honored as a 5-star recipient for Women’s Care as recognized by Healthgrades, the leading online resource for information about physicians and hospitals. These 5-star ratings indicate that Medical City Arlington’s clinical outcomes are significantly better statistically than expected for Gynecologic Surgery, Labor, Delivery, Obstetrics and Gynecology.

In addition, Medical City Arlington earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Total Hip and Knee Replacement Certification by demonstrating continuous compliance with the commission’s performance standards.

The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a healthcare organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

Medical City Arlington was Arlington’s first Chest Pain Center accredited by The Society for Chest Pain Centers and has a Cycle V Designation. The hospital is also certified by the Joint Commission as a Primary Stroke Center with an on-site dedicated Stroke Team and a dedicated CT Scan in the ER to help facilitate protocol-driven care when minutes matter most.

Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital

Medical City Arlington

800 W. Randol Mill Road • 817-960-6100 • texashealth.org/arlington

3301 Matlock Road • 682-509-6200 • medicalcityarlington.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Professional and Environment Friendly Services for Your Outdoor Needs

817-675-8565 Removal, Trimming and Clean Up Tree Injections

• Tree Removal, Trimming • Residential and Clean Up • Commercial • Pruning, Shaping Shrubs • Landscaping • Tree Injections • Hardscape • Stump Grinding • Firewood & Mulch • Christmas Lights Honorable Mention

2020

Readers’ Choice

All Star

All Star Landscaper

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

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The Team

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817-793-7816 cyrusshaw7@gmail.com

REQUEST A FREE SOLAR CONSULTATION AND RECEIVE 6 MONTHS ON US - OR - $500 CASH ON INSTALLATION DATE, PROMOTION CODE: 1221! arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

85

All Stars: Wellness

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center Winner: Emergency Room HM: Hospital

M

ethodist Mansfield Medical Center, a 262-bed acute care hospital, has been proud to serve the community for more than 13 years while it continues to expand to meet patients’ needs. Here are just a few of the hospital’s recent enhancements.

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

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

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

In addition to the latest medical advancements, Methodist Mansfield has achieved exceptional patient safety scores.

Methodist Mansfield has received the highest rating possible by The Leapfrog Group®.

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

“Methodist Mansfield offers personalized healthcare services for every stage of life and every state of health,” says Methodist Mansfield President Juan Fresquez Jr. “Our families, neighbors, colleagues, and friends deserve a hospital that puts safety and patient care first and is committed to improving the health and quality of life.”

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center 2700 E. Broad St., Mansfield • 682-242-2000 • methodisthealthsystem.org/ methodist-mansfield-medical-center

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington Winner: Orthopedic Care

B

aylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington is proud to be chosen for the third consecutive year as the Arlington Today All Star for Orthopedic Care.

It’s always an honor to be named one of the top medical providers by the readers of Arlington Today. As the only orthopedic surgery and specialty hospital of its kind in Dallas/ Fort Worth, we take pride in bringing experts close to home.

Baylor Scott & White Arlington is a unique, industry leading specialty hospital focused on comprehensive outpatient and inpatient treatment of orthopedic and spine disorders.

Whether it’s a simple neck strain or a complex joint surgery, the hospital and its staff are committed to delivering quality, specialized treatment that is compassionate and specifically appropriate for each individual. The hospital is devoted to providing guests with the latest in advanced technology including the new ROSA® Knee robotic technology. With a state-of-the-art multi-stage air filtration system that kills viruses in the air, the hospital provides an optimal environment for all patients.

Baylor Scott & White Arlington also provides a full-service ER, complete diagnostic imaging capabilities and on-site physical therapy and a comprehensive Pain Management Center.

“We’re focused on providing a level of patient-focused care, diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic and spine issues,” said Allan Beck, Chief Executive Officer. “Our comprehensive on-site services offer convenience along with expert orthopedic care, helping our patients get back to doing what they love.”

Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington 707 Highlander Blvd. • 855-41-ORTHO • bswarlington.com

John R. Landry, DPM, FACFAS R. David Warren, DPM, FACFAS Joe T. Southerland, DPM, FACFAS Linnie V. Rabjohn, DPM, FACFAS Ryan N. Lawrence, DPM, FACFAS

Experience, Technology . . . Patient Satisfaction All Practice Physicans Board Certified in Podiatric Surgery, American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons

Winner

2017-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Podiatrist

• Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus • Shockwave Therapy (EPAT) for Heel Pain • Diagnostic and Injection Guidance Ultrasound

• In-Office Digital X-Ray • In-Office CT Scanner • In-Office Vascular Screening

Offering Non-Surgical and Surgical Solutions for Your Feet and Ankles

Call 817-467-1990 to schedule an appointment.

Mansfield: 1001 Matlock Rd. Ste 103 • Arlington: 400 W. Arbrook Blvd., Ste 201 footanklecenters.com

C & W Antiques

2100 N. Hwy. 360 Suites 705 & 706 (NE corner of 360 & Carrier Pkwy.)

Grand Prairie, TX 75060

Open Saturday & Sunday 11:00 am 7:00 pm M-F by appointment 817-637-7637

arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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All Stars: Wellness

Central Park ENT Winner: Ear / Nose / Throat

F

or each of the past three years, Central Park ENT has been chosen by our readers as their favorite area Ear / Nose / Throat practice.

The board certified physicians of Central Park Ear Nose Throat work as a team to provide the best quality of service to their patients. Drs. Mark Palmer, Chris Lee, Stuart Thomas, Rene Pena, Dana Gibbs and Tyler Scoresby have devoted their careers to helping people with allergy issues, ear infections, hearing impairments, colds and sinus infections.

The Central Park ENT healthcare providers believe that by assisting others through education and compassion, they can improve and restore quality of life for patients and their loved ones.

With offices located throughout the Metroplex (including sites in Arlington, Mansfield, Dallas and Fort Worth), Central Park ENT has experienced and compassionate doctors and practitioners who can help with any ear, nose, or throat condition you may have. From allergy treatment to hearing aids, sinus surgery, thyroid conditions, and much more, the team of caring ENT doctors is easily accessible to help patients and their families.

The doctors encourage patients to take a few moments to visit the practice website, centralparkent.net, for information on allergies, preparing for your visit and the doctors. You can also view videos, and, once your visit is complete, you can take a short satisfaction survey.

The in-depth explanations on the website can help you determine if and when visiting the clinic will benefit you the most. For general health information, Central Park ENT’s blogs are posted on a regular basis to help patients get information on how to prevent diseases, illness and discomfort in their daily lives.

The Mission at Central Park ENT is to provide the highest quality treatment for all ear, nose and throat problems by emphasizing patient education, incorporating the latest technology and making your individual needs a first priority.

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Kos / Danchak

Audiology & Hearing Aids Winner: Audiologist

K

os / Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids has been helping people in the Arlington / North Texas area hear the best they can for over 35 years; and they have just been named an All Star for the 5th straight year!

Dr. Melissa Danchak believes this recognition is the result of the patient-first focus and commitment to delivering the best hearing health care solutions possible for the people they meet with each day.

“There are not many audiology practices in the North Texas area that have been helping people hear better for over 35 years. We believe that how we meet with people and the delivery of the services we provide is about providing an experience that Dr. Melissa Danchak makes them feel confident in their decision to address their hearing health care needs, with us.

That confidence is being verified publicly by the community of physicians that consistently refer their patients to us, as well as the online reviews and recommendations our patients are posting about their experiences with us.”

Dr. Danchak and her staff believe in a complete hearing health care approach for each patient. “Better hearing health care is a journey – not a transaction! Each day, we meet with people that have trusted their hearing health care needs to us for over 15 years – some over 20 years! Their confidence in us to refer their family and friends is humbling to say the least. The online reviews that hundreds of our patients have shared are just awesome. They provide someone searching for hearing health care with the ability to feel good about their first step towards better hearing.”

In recognition of their 5th straight year being named an All Star, Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids is providing up to $500 off of a set of hearing aids during the months of August and September.

Central Park Ear, Nose and Throat

Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids

Arlington: 409 Central Park Drive • Mansfield: 221 Regency Pkwy., Suite 111 817-261-9191 • centralparkent.net

101 W. Randol Mill Road • 817-277-7039 • northtxhearing.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Thank You!

For the sixth year in a row, COMET CLEANERS has been voted “ALL STAR DRY CLEANER” for Arlington and surrounding communities.

Winner 2015-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

• Professional Pressing • Clean and Pleasant Environment • Free Personalized Express Bags • Professional Spot Removal • Check and Replace Buttons • Convenient Drive-Thru or Drive-Up Valet Service We treat your garments like our own.

We don’t compromise on quality or service.

We are committed to saving you time and making your life easier!

COMET CLEANERS has been a close-knit, family-owned business for over 61 years. With over 150 locations in 11 states and Mexico, there are 12 Comet locations in the Arlington-Mansfield area to serve you.

For franchise information: 888.461.3555 or cometfranchising.com arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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All Stars: Wellness ... Personal Services / Leisure

Resurgence Wellness

Great Skin Spa & Facial Club

Winner: Rejuvenator

Winner: Skin Care

N

G

early two years ago, Resurgence Wellness opened its doors in Arlington and introduced a new realm of healthcare to the North Texas region. Our readers obviously deemed the endeavor worthy – they have voted founder Christopher Chappell’s wellness clinic an Arlington-area All Star twice in a row.

Resurgence Wellness specializes in providing advanced medical solutions to help patients reach optimal health.

The clinic methodically analyzes the cause of each patient’s health issues to create effective – even, lifechanging – results, whether a patient’s goal is to lose weight, stabilize Christopher Chappell hormone levels, or boost his/her immune system. The gamut of solutions is based on treatments that are safe and non-invasive ways to get to the root cause of health problems to help restore the patient’s vitality so he or she can get back to feeling well. “Resurgence Wellness was created to help patients ‘Own the Day,’” says Chappell.

A lot of our readers obviously believe the clinic is doing just that.

reat Skin Spa & Facial Club has been an All Star every year we’ve had skin care as a category. Owner Brenda Hunt began her career in the beauty business 14 years ago as the first U.S. franchisee of Canadianbased FACES Cosmetics. She developed Great Skin Spa & Facial Club in Arlington 10 years ago, and the company has continued to grow and gain notoriety as an exceptional day spa and skin care provider.

Great Skin specializes in dozens of skin treatment protocols and instant slimming and body contouring procedures. Through its Facial Club, Hunt and her team make it affordable for clients to care for their skin in both aspects – in the spa and at home.

Hunt also offers franchise opportunities for prospective owners who would like to achieve the kind of success she has enjoyed. Great Skin is now offering Virtual Skin Care Consultations where clients meet with a licensed, trained professional Great Skin esthetician via Zoom or Facetime (or by phone) who helps them take care of their skin with a customized skin care system, and it’s same day delivery in Arlington! Just another way Great Skin takes care of their clients and respects the timing that our world is in.

Resurgence Wellness

Great Skin Spa & Facial Club

2701 Matlock Road, #105 • 833-696-2329 • resurgencewellness.com

3851 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-478-2114 • greatskin4you.com

Shelton’s Salon & Spa

River Legacy Parks

Winner: Hair Salon Honorable Mention: Skin Care

Winner: Local Park

E

T

arning its fifth straight All Star award, Shelton’s Salon & Spa was started in 1965 in what was Stripling’s Department Store, prompting Shelton Ogle to follow his entrepreneurial instincts to open three more salons and the Ogle School of Hair Design, which grew to four locations. Shelton, along with his wife Linda, have always tried to inspire the staff and students to the value they each bring to their clients.

There has always been a passion to present the Beauty Industry in a creative, professional and clientcentered environment. In staffing the salons, spas and schools, Shelton and Linda have been selective in choosing people who share their desire for being a leader in the industry.

Ogle School was sold in 2006.

Shelton’s Salon and Spas have continued to evolve with the goal of offering clients fresh and creative styling and skin treatment. There is great pride in continuing to serve clients and stand in high regard in the community. Thank you, Arlington.

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here is little question Arlington area residents love River Legacy Parks – this is the seventh time the majestic city treasure has been named an All Star. Of course, who could argue against something that offers the beauty of the wilderness with open spaces for your favorite pastime – pretty much whatever that favorite pastime might be?

From botany to bicycling or rollerblading to strolls through the woods, this 1,300-acre public park has something for everyone. The park’s ecological diversity of bottomland forest, wetlands and prairie provides abundant habitat for countless wildlife and native plants.

And then there are amenities, such as trails, picnic areas, river overlooks, canoe launches and more.

As our readers have noted, more is good.

Shelton’s Salon & Spa

River Legacy Parks

2122 W. Park Row Drive • 817-277-6339 • sheltonssalon.com

703 N.W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-860-6752 • riverlegacy.org

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

O U R RO OTS A L SO R U N D E E P I N T E X A S.

Thanks for choosing Frost as the Best Bank in Arlington.

Visit us at frostbank.com or call (817) 420-5200.

MEMBER FDIC

We appreciate your votes!

Thank you Arlington Today readers!

Winner 2017-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

2017-2020 Winner All Star Deli/ Sandwich

You've tried the rest, now try the BEST!

817-274-1140

Drop by for lunch, dinner or before the Rangers game!

2221 South Collins St. • Arlington, TX 76010 arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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All Stars: Personal Services / Leisure

The Sanford House Winner: Place for Lunch, Bed & Breakfast, Event Venue, Massage, Spa

I

f there’s anything we’ve learned during the seven years we’ve presented our All Star award winners, it’s that The Sanford House – complete with on-site fine dining at Restaurant506 and the full-service Sanford Spa & Salon – has captured the fancy of our readers. This is the sixth straight year the inn/getaway/ rejuvenation center/popular wedding venue/stellar eatery has earned All Star distinction.

This year, it won five categories!

General Manager Valerie Landry proudly notes that the family-owned-andoperated Inn has been a staple in Arlington for over 20 years now. “When we originally opened in 1997, my grandparents lived on property and ran the business as a true bed and breakfast,” she says. “As the business developed, my grandparents eventually decided to retire, and my Mom, Dr. Joan Bergstrom, ran the business with various managers at the helm.”

Since Landry came on board in 2008, she has worked with her mom to create “House Hosted” events and develop a more strategic management plan. “We continually put a lot of effort into the quality of products and services we provide,” Landry says.

That is especially true this year. When the pandemic prompted temporary closures of the restaurant and salon/spa, Landry used the time as an opportunity to completely rebrand the Inn, Spa, and Restaurant506, remodel the Grand Courtyard, repaint the exterior of the Inn, and upgrade fixtures and features throughout the property. “In addition to all the upgrades we completed, we were able to adapt by expanding our dining service into the Courtyard.

Now that Restaurant506 has reopened, we are able to welcome our guests back and provide them the space they need to feel comfortable joining together,” she says.

Now that Arlington’s long-term vision of a bustling and walkable downtown is nearly complete, The Sanford House is in a perfect location for visitors wanting to settle into the heart of the Metroplex and experience Arlington, as well as for locals seeking a change of scenery for a relaxing staycation.

Landry says the company’s professional philosophy is to provide tremendous, sincere hospitality to everyone. “The Sanford House is most special because of the unparalleled service we provide,” Landry says. “Our vision is to lift up all of our guests so they feel nourished, accepted, and celebrated. Come visit our restaurant, spa, and hotel, and enjoy a respite from the everyday.”

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Massage Envy Honorable Mention: Massage

T

he team at Massage Envy knows that the demands of daily life can be super taxing on your body. That’s why it pays to take care of it – and why Massage Envy offers skilled, friendly personnel who are eager to help you do that.

With a little help from Massage Envy, you can keep your body running smoothly, so you can run that half marathon or simply thrive throughout that full day of meetings.

A first-time All Star, Massage Envy features professional massage or skin care services that are performed by highly qualified therapists and estheticians who care about helping you look and feel your best. At Massage Envy’s three area franchised locations, it is our mission to help you take care of you.

Massage Envy North Arlington: 1805 N. Collins St. • 817-402-3232 Grand Prairie: 5232 S. State Hwy. 360, Suite 610 • 817-303-3689 Mansfield: 1497 Hwy. 287 North • 817-453-3689 • locations.massageenvy.com/texas

The Levitt Pavilion Winner: Place for Live Music

P

retty much every year this category belongs to the Levitt Pavilion, and with good cause: The Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts in Arlington provides more than 50 free concerts a year with a broadbased concert calendar of original music by professional musical artists from world music to jazz and country to Indie artists.

The Levitt Pavilion’s concerts provide our community with an accessible, safe gathering place for free music and performing arts open to everyone – all ages, ethnicities, neighborhoods and income levels, especially those who could not afford to enjoy and benefit from live music and the performing arts in any other way. Last year, 73,265 people attended Levitt shows.

As noted in detail in a story later in this issue, the Levitt just added a new hospitality center and permanent restrooms, which should make the concerts – and other events the center will surely attract – even more enjoyable in the future.

The Sanford House

The Levitt Pavilion

506 N. Center St. • 817-861-2129 • thesanfordhouse.com

100 W. Abram St. • 817-543-4308 • levittpavilionarlington.org

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Winner

All Star Jeweler

2018-2020 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

4720 S Cooper Arlington TX 76017

Charms & More

Inside the Shops at Gracie Lane

817-649-1112

Thank You Arlington Today Readers!

Thank you to our amazing family of customers. Your loyalty means the world to us. It’s been a pleasure serving you over the past 40 years and we look forward to serving you for many years to come!

Our Services include:

• Vaccinations • Wellness care • Elective surgery • Non-elective surgery • Dentistry • Interactive Doggie Daycare • Luxury Suite Boarding • Boarding • Grooming • Obedience Training • Microchipping

Experience.

Integrity.

Richter Animal Hospital and PetResort Winner Readers’ Choice

All Star

All Star Veterinarian ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

7-7 M-F • Sat. 8am - 12pm 4601 W. Sublett Rd Arlington, Texas 76017

817-478-8000 richteranimalhospital.com

817-795-0031 • www.swbcmortgage.com

Winner

2015, 2018-20

Honorable Mention 2016

1281 W. Green Oaks Blvd. #119 Arlington, Tx 76013

All Star

All Star

Front Row: Lacreta Beaney, Karyn Goen. Back Row: Paul Beaney NMLS 217433, Mary Dietz NMLS 219164, Aaron Spaight NMLS #1391936.

ARLINGTON Today

ARLINGTON Today

Readers’ Choice

your community • your magazine

Readers’ Choice

your community • your magazine

©2014 SWBC. All rights reserved. Loans are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and conditions may apply. Programs and guidelines are subject to change without notice. Rates are subject to change daily. SWBC Mortgage Corporation NMLS #9741 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org), C r rate Office l cate at San e r Suite San nt ni TX

arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Gifts and Fashion

3

1

from Anything Goes

2

from Jazzy Jems

from Anything Goes

5

4 from Gracie Lane

7 from Jazzy Jems

8

9

from Gracie Lane

6

from Gracie Lane

from Gracie Lane

from Gracie Lane Accent Rug

10

from Anything Goes

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Gifts and Fashion from Jazzy Jems

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12

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from Anything Goes

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from C&W Antiques

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• TRAVEL

A COVID-CATION Nothing soothes the soul quite like a 2,000-mile road trip to the Majestic Smoky Mountains with the family • By Richard Greene

O

ur family had a dual purpose for taking a 2,000-mile road trip in July to the majestic Smoky Mountains. Our first reason was to retrieve the frame of a hundred-year old couch first owned by our son’s great grandparents before whom he had taken his first steps as a 13-month old when we took him to their South Carolina home so they could meet him.

We used that mission to justify our second reason – to escape our virtual confinement from the COVID-19 virus. Yes, we know others have broken their own isolations by getting away to somewhere in order to deal with the consequences of being secluded from the rest of humanity.

To do the trip with relative safety to ourselves and others, we rented a sanitized home in the mountains and booked a couple of hotel rooms en route that were also promised to be thoroughly disinfected.

We took our own food for multiple picnics in state parks and only occasionally had to resort to take out from familiar eateries. Of course, we wore face coverings and maintained distancing from others – something easily achieved in the outdoors.

Our visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was not our first, or anywhere near that, as we had made the trip many times combined with visits to both sides of my wife Sylvia’s families, who made their livings farming tobacco and row crops in the area.

It’s among our favorite destinations, and you may be able to discern why from the photos on these pages. Walking the trails in the park to destinations providing vistas and features of God’s handiwork never gets old.

The newly-restored 36-mile roadway winding through the park is bordered by Gatlinburg in Tennessee and in North Carolina

by Cherokee on the Indian reservation. Both towns thrive on tourism, and there were so many people in Gatlinburg that we decided not to mingle with them.

For parts of two days, we also drove portions of the 469-mile scenic Blue Ridge Parkway As these photographs suggest, our recent visit to the stretching from North Carolina Smoky Mountains was wrought with beautiful sites that highlight the flora and fauna of one of the country’s to Virginia taking travelers high more magnificent vistas. across the mountains with views that are beyond breathtaking.

Yes, we also stopped in a couple of the quaint mountain villages where we could avoid being among more than about 10 or so others, most of whom were observing the safety protocols with which we are all now so familiar.

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park long ago established itself as the most visited of all the country’s national parks. If you haven’t been there, I can promise making the journey will be an awesome experience.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Photos by Richard, Sylvia, Brian and Ashley Greene

arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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As the sun sets on another hot Texas day it’s time to beat the heat... so come inside and join us for some sensational summer entertainment & cold drinks!

Fri., July 31

Fri., Aug. 7

John Dosher & Chris Menger

Donovan Marie Lawson

Still Crazy

Donovan is a Girl’s Name!

Sat., Aug. 1

Fri., Aug. 14

Sat., Aug. 8

Fri., Aug. 21

Persis Ann Forster

Ken’Ja Brown A Trip to Ken’Ja Sat., Aug. 15

Aug. 28-29

I Never Wanted to Sing By Myself: My Mother Made Me Do It! Sat., Aug. 22

Mattie Lillian Davis Funny or Sad: The Life and Times of an Anxious Actress

Leslie HoptonJones I Can’t Sing in Flats

Micah Green

Sheran Goodspeed Keyton

Coulda. Shoulda. Woulda!

Joe Rogers

featuring

Your health & safety are important to us. We will be following CDC guidelines, including limited seating capacity.

Box Office 817-275-7661 • theatrearlington.org/production/cabaret-series Doors open at 7:30pm • • Show starts at 8pm Bar and Concessions will be open.

SEASON SPONSORS 98

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

Visit us at our NEW WAREHOUSE LOCATION: 2005 Roosevelt Dr • Pantego, Texas 76013 Always open for your shopping 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! jazzyjems.com

Final Cut

Total Property Management

Specializing in Trees and Fences

Fence Repair and Replace Tree Trimming and Removal Mow and Edge | Yard Treatment Flowerbeds 817-233-6697 Rusty Whitaker, Owner Whitakerrusty@yahoo.com

Jazzy Jems

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• ENTERTAINMENT

SUITE! Levitt’s new hospitality center will help make Downtown Arlington a prime destination • By Cathy O’Neal

D

uring a summer when there’s a new change around every corner, there’s an exciting change happening in Downtown Arlington at the Levitt Pavilion.

Three years ago, just before Texas country music singer/songwriter Jack Ingram took the stage for an October concert at the Levitt, Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital CEO Allan Beck presented a check to the Levitt Pavilion for $500,000. Baylor’s check was matched by the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation with the goal to build something the Levitt had needed since it opened 12 years ago: permanent public restrooms.

With $1 million in the bank, the Levitt Pavilion’s board of directors and staff began 2018 with a capital campaign to make the facility restrooms a reality. In looking at the possibilities and thinking about the future, a hospitality suite was added above the restrooms. The Levitt concluded its 2018 concert season with a ceremonial ground-breaking for the project, and construction began the day after the 2019 summer concert season ended.

In just a few weeks, Levitt Pavilion Arlington will proudly introduce the new Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospitality Center.

The $3.4 million project includes: • The Arlington Tomorrow Foundation Hospitality Suite • Catering kitchen • High-tech A/V system • Concert-viewing deck • Women’s and men’s accessible restrooms • Family restroom “The architectural design and versatility of the new hospitality suite makes the project a true show-stopper,” says Letatia Teykl, executive director of Levitt Pavilion Arlington. “It can be configured for a business meeting, workshop, wedding reception, cocktail party – you name it! We are ready to activate the lawn and facilities on a year-round basis and – exciting news – we already have a wedding on the books for 2021!”

During Levitt concerts, sponsors will have priority in using the suite for hosting their own private event. During a concert, if the suite isn’t being used, it can be rented by anyone for a private party. When it isn’t concert season, the hospitality suite is available for rent by itself or as a package with the Levitt stage for fundraisers, festivals and events, increasing how the Levitt is used year-round.

“We are so excited about the possibilities that the new Baylor Scott & 100

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

The new Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospitality Center features a hospitality suite, a concert-viewing deck, a catering kitchen, a high-tech A / V system and mens, women’s and family restrooms.

Photos: Glenda Beckwith

White Orthopedic and Spine Hospitality Center will bring!” says Josh Hankins, Levitt Pavilion Arlington’s board chair. “We feel that it’s going to be a key element to add to the sustainability of our concert series, as well as our mission to build community in Arlington. The hospitality center will allow us to host additional sponsors during the concert seasons, but most exciting is that it will allow us to better utilize the facilities and lawn year-round.”

The hospitality center was designed by architects Ibanez Shaw with construction by J. Hutcherson Construction. Bart Shaw, architect, says the most challenging aspect was how to maximize the space and provide a facility that would be a showcase and enhance the vibrancy of downtown Arlington.

“The idea of putting a VIP suite on top of a restroom building was tricky,” he adds. “We needed to maximize the space on that corner.

What separates this project from others is the type of project – putting a finished space on top of a park restroom.”

Shaw designed the hospitality center to enhance the look and feel of the Levitt stage and add to what he calls “the energy and drama” of the lawn. During concerts, that translates into taking a concert night and adding spectacular ambiance for listening to live music or hosting an event. It gives businesses and organizations a new option for meetings, retreats, workshops and receptions. Coupled with the new restrooms, it adds to the Levitt’s appeal as the site for fun runs and 5Ks, fund-raisers, events, and festivals.

“The Levitt Pavilion has been a destination for many Arlington and surrounding area residents and visitors. We all have great memories of our favorite concerts there,” says Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams. “The new hospitality center will only enhance the Levitt and the city’s statedesignated Cultural Arts District, making Downtown Arlington even more appealing to those organizing festivals and events.”

For the hospitality center’s grand opening, the Levitt has plans for a ribbon-cutting and tours of the new facility. Opportunities will be announced on the Levitt’s website, in its monthly e-newsletter and on its social media outlets.

“We cannot wait for everyone to come by and see all that the hospitality center has to offer,” adds Teykl. “We’re proud of the new hospitality center and the potential that comes with a facility of this caliber in the Downtown Arlington Cultural Arts District.”

Cathy O’Neal is communications director of Levitt Pavilion Arlington.

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103

• EDUCATION

BACK TO SCHOOL PLANS FOR AISD, MISD ...

Superintendent Cavazos says the move to start online is the right one

A

fter public health authorities in Tarrant County, along with the cities of Arlington and Burleson, signed a joint control order on July 21 to keep all schools closed for the first six weeks of the year, Arlington ISD Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos says the decision was the right one.

“I think it’s a responsible way of moving forward,” Dr. Cavazos says. “Now I understand that doesn’t meet the needs of everyone, and not everyone is pleased with that order, because many people wanted face-toface instruction.

I’ve said often that face-to-face instruction we know is the best.

Students learn best when they’re in front of and with teachers.

That’s not the question. The question is, ‘When is that possible?

When is that safe?’”

The superintendent says the decision to postpone face-to-face instruction until Sept. 28 in light of Texas’ uncertain COVID-19 situation was based on the advice of health authorities.

Though students will start the 2020-2021 school year on Aug. 17 where they ended 2019-2020 – at home because of the pandemic – Cavazos says they won’t be significantly affected during the online learning time at the start of school. He notes that there will be rigorous online instruction, with grades, attendance, and social and emotional learning embedded.

Here, also, are two measures that will take place once students, faculty members and staff return to physical classrooms: • Students will have school for at least four hours a day. Then they’ll have a choice of face-to-face instruction or remote.

• Masks will be required throughout the day, including on school buses, and hand washing procedures will be taught in every classroom.

For more: aisd.net.

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The official announcement from the Mansfield Independent School District:

A

s Mansfield ISD plans for the 2020-21 school year, we know that we must be prepared to provide the excellent education that our community expects. In the midst of the unknowns of COVID-19 and guidance from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) on the requirements to reopen schools this fall, MISD’s top priority has and always will be the safety and wellbeing of our students, families and staff.

MISD is committed to opening school for in-person instruction with guidelines that prioritize public health and that protect our students and staff to the greatest extent possible. While we strongly believe that face-to-face learning and connection is most beneficial for the vast majority of students, we have streamlined our process and dedicated ourselves to ensuring that a virtual learning experience will be as successful for those students who do not yet feel comfortable coming to school in person.

While we are planning for these two different instructional environments, please know that adjustments may be necessary throughout the coming school year. It will be our commitment to keep the community informed of those changes and updates.

Following a joint order released on July 21 by the Tarrant County, City of Arlington and City of Burleson health authorities, all Mansfield ISD students will begin the 202021 school year on Aug. 12 in a virtual setting until Sept. 28.

Mansfield ISD parents can choose to enroll their child(ren) for in-person instruction or virtual instruction for the fall semester.

For more: mansfieldisd.org.

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107

• BEHIND THE WHEELS

Vernon Bland proudly displays his 1971 Italian De Tomaso Pantera, which has been his “dream car” since he first saw it as a young child.

Photos: Richard Greene

V

ernon Bland recalls the first time as a kid when he discovered the Italian De Tomaso Pantera mid-engine sports car that he knew at first sight to be his dream car: “Sometimes on Saturdays I would tag along with my father to the St. Louis dealership where he worked as a new car prep mechanic.

“On this particular Saturday, he was preparing a Pantera for display and, for some reason, I immediately became enamored with it. It was the coolest car I had ever seen. Of course, my father did not allow me to touch or sit in it, but I never forgot that moment.”

You can see by looking A 35-year love affair is finally at this 1971 satisfied • By Richard Greene entry into the American sports car market why it would capture the imagination and admiration of a youngster and see it last for 35 years.

THE

108

ONE!

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

“In June 2007, after a friend introduced me to the DFW Pantera Club and the Pantera Owners Club of America, I was moved to action,” Vernon says. “I had to own one and found my dream car.

“This Pantera is extremely unique. I’m the third owner and there is no record of how this vehicle made it to California where I found the one-off, hand-built vehicle that was only the 89th of a total production of around 6,000 coming out of the partnership with De Tomaso and the Ford Motor Company.”

The car is powered by a Ford 351 Cleveland “King of Torque” V8 engine producing 285 horsepower able to achieve a top speed of 140 miles per hour via its 5-speed manual transmission.

Ahead-of-its-time features include pushbutton door handles with hand grips molded into the body, Italian gauges, a remote deck lid release located in the driver side door pillar, single-double slot Campagnolo wheels, the small De Tomaso Pantera script on the back panel and the smooth rear deck lid with no ridge.

Having the sports car that had been rushed to market by Ford’s Lee Iacocca to get a jump on the competition proved to be a challenge with incomplete design and engineering problems resulting in some frustration by its owners, including Vernon’s own experiences. >>>

This classic is powered by a Ford 351 Cleveland “King of Torque” V8 engine that produces 285 horsepower, which is just the right “oomph” for a vehicle that was made to turn heads.

arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

109

The Pantera would evolve and become Road Test Magazine’s Import car of the year, beating out the Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini and Porsche within two years of its debut. Getting there, however, required some patience and perseverance.

“Driving it was exhilarating until gremlins that are associated with an un-restored 1971 vehicle were problematic, even when it was new. My tipping point occurred when it was overheated on the Dallas North Tollway – in traffic with no means to exit, the engine seized.

“This event started what amounted to a four-year restoration.

The more we repaired, the more we found, and parts were hard to find or nonexistent.

“Only my blind love for my Pantera moved the restoration along.”

Even Elvis Presley had similar problems with his Canary Yellow ‘71 Pantera that produced a very different reaction. To relieve his frustration with the car’s malfunctions, the King of

Rock-n-Roll took out a pistol and shot two bullets into his.

However, Vernon’s persistence in getting his into top shape and dependable operation through his resolve to make it what it is today resulted in the collection of accolades from major car shows and rallies he’s eager to join.

Among his trophies are place and class winners from The Concours d’Elegance of Texas, the Southwest Classic Car Show, The Texas Show Promoters Texas Live, the Red River European Car and Motorcycle Show, the Yellow Rose Classic, and the Concorso Italiano in Monterey, Calif.

He was also chosen to participate in the first Luxury and Supercar Showcase at Park Place and Summit Racing as Display Car of the Month.

With a big smile and pride showing in his demeanor, he concludes his story: “My car has no problems keeping up with the best of the best.

Much love is given and much love is received!”

Lest anyone wonder just how impressive the Pantera is, its makers adorned it with a variety of stylish ensignias, which mark the car as a something “fit for a king” – The King, in fact. Yes, Elvis Presley had a Canary Yellow ‘71 Pantera.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

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111

• UTA TODAY

A MESSAGE FROM INTERIM PRESIDENT TEIK C. LIM: Dear UTA Community, [Recent events] have been transformational for our nation, state, and community. We have grappled with difficult questions about racism, discrimination, and our roles in promoting diversity and inclusion.

Here at UTA we have come together to listen, learn, and discuss.

UTA is committed to eradicating racial discrimination and creating a diverse and inclusive campus community. Therefore, we are taking immediate action based on the feedback we have received from our students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

We are creating a vice president-level office directly focusing on matters related to diversity, equity and inclusion. This office will lead UTA’s efforts to ensure that all students, faculty, and staff have an inclusive and welcoming place to work, learn, and live.

We are reconstituting the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. This committee will make recommendations to University leadership on ways UTA can create a more supportive and fairer environment for every member of our community. Our deans and vice presidents will engage their units in identifying candidates for the committee. This committee will be constituted by the Fall 2020 semester.

We are developing a University-wide plan to enhance the recruiting, retention, and promotion of underrepresented faculty and staff. This effort will be led by Faculty Affairs in the Provost’s Office and Human Resources, with involvement from units across the University.

We are creating more scholarships for low-income, first-generation and first-time-in-college students. This effort will be led by Enrollment Management in partnership with Academic Affairs and University Advancement.

We are developing and implementing diversity and inclusion training for all faculty and staff. Our vice president for Human Resources is already working to develop the training, immediately.

This initiative will fall under the new Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

We are incorporating diversity content into a required course for all new students. The Provost’s Office, in collaboration with the Division of Student Success, will work with our expert faculty to develop and implement this content.

We are engaging directly with the UTA Police Department to 112

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

ensure its approaches to community policing are aligned with the core values of our University, and free from unfairness and bias.

We are adding staff and programming in the Office of Multicultural Affairs to enhance the services provided to our students.

Everyone at UTA should feel safe and welcome, and we will act on these steps immediately. In close collaboration and consultation with leaders across the University, as well as our alumni, we are developing additional strategies to combat racism and discrimination, and encourage diversity and inclusion at UTA. I pledge to you that we will act decisively to fulfill these commitments and will build a timeline to complete all these steps by the fall of 2021 or sooner.

As a university dedicated to diversity and inclusion, it’s important for us to continue having a robust dialogue that identifies additional ways we can act to promote a more inclusive campus community. These steps are a beginning; together, we will live up to the ideals set forth in our Principles of Community by ensuring that UTA is a safe, secure, and supportive campus for all.

We will be transparent about our progress and will report regularly to our entire community on our progress toward these goals, as well as any additional strategies that are developed to further our progress.

The events of recent weeks have been illuminating for me and I am making a personal commitment to continue listening and learning. I want each one of you to know that I am open to hearing ideas, to learning about the experiences of others, and to having an open discussion about how we can improve our community. Please feel free to send me an email if you would like to share any thoughts or ideas.

I look forward to engaging with and working alongside each of you in the important work we have before us. We celebrate our diversity, and together we stand united.

Sincerely, Teik C. Lim, Ph.D. President ad interim #UTAUnited

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113

• BULLETIN BOARD

salvation army team has two new leaders L recipe for success: Green’s Produce & Plants’ Grab-n-go

W

hile Green’s Produce & Plants won our readers’ hearts as an All Star Garden Center, it has been winning their tummies with delectable Grab-n-Go selections that include the ever-popular fruit crisps and French vanilla almond granola clusters.

Green’s HR and Social Media Director Chelsea White says Grab-n-Go items are made in-house and are displayed in coolers and on shelves. There customers can ... well ... grab them and go to the checkout counter. Shortly thereafter, they can enjoy jams, jellies, tamales, salsa and precut foods such as watermelon, cantaloupes, cucumber salad, cole slaw and fruit crisps (think apples, pears, plums, pineapple, blueberries, strawberries, mango, grapes, bananas and peaches).

For more: greensproduce.com.

Carter joins UTA coaching staff

U

niversity of Texas at Arlington head women’s basketball coach Krista Gerlich recently announced that JC Carter will join the Lady Mavs coaching staff as an associate head coach.

Carter replaces former associate head coach Talby Justus, who resigned to return home to Oklahoma and become the varsity boys basketball coach at Pawhuska HS. For more: utamavs.com.

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ts. Konstantin Maslenikov and Anna Maslenikova last month assumed leadership roles at The Salvation Army Arlington/Mansfield Corps, North Texas Education Town, and Family Life Center.

The husband-and-wife team were born and grew up in the city of Petrozavodsk, located in the Northwestern part of Russia, 300 miles North of SaintPetersburg. The city was named after Russia’s most Lts. Konstantin Maslenikov famous tsar, Peter and Anna Maslenikova the Great. It was there that they first heard the gospel and later joined The Salvation Army Corps.

“We have been with The Salvation Army for more than 20 years,” Lt. Anna says. “At the local corps in Russia, we have been involved in many different ministries as volunteers. It is also the church where we met each other, grew as Christians, as a couple, as parents and ministers.”

They were married in June 2007. Their first son, Artem was born in 2009. Einer was born in 2013.

“Our family moved to the United States in 2017,” Lt. Anna says. “We spent a year in The Salvation Army in Salisbury, Md., ministering to the young people of the community. In 2018 we followed our calling to become the Salvation Army Officers (ministers), and moved to Atlanta for training at The Evangeline Booth College.”

Lt. Anna says they are a very active family with the “incredibly active” boys, who both are soccer freaks.

Everywhere they go – Russia, Salisbury, Atlanta – they always join competitive soccer teams. Other family hobbies are traveling, sports, music, reading.

“We are looking forward to serve in The Salvation Army Arlington/ Mansfield corps and the community,” she says. “We are very excited about what the Lord has in store for us all. He works in His incredible Divine style that fascinates us more and more!”

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• DINING GUIDE

’S YUM WORD THE

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

Mercury Chophouse

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

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

restaurant506

frieddaze • 5005 S. Cooper St., Suite 159 • 817-472-6666 • frieddaze.com The Grease Monkey • 200 N. Mesquite St. • 817-665-5454 • greasemonkeyburgers.com J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill • 400 E. Abram St. • 817-274-8561 • jgilligans.com Mac’s Bar & Grill • 6077 W. I-20 • 817-572-0541 • macsteak.com

MEXICAN / TEX-MEX Cartel Taco Bar • 506 E. Division St., Suite 150 • 817-200-6364 • carteltacobar.com El Arroyo • 5024 S. Cooper St. • 817-468-2557 • elarroyoarlington.com

Dino’s Subs

El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill • 2408 W. Abram St. • 817-276-8160 • facebook.com/elgabachotexmex Fuzzy’s Taco Shop • 510 E. Abram St. • 817-265-8226 • 4201 W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-516-8226 1601 E. Debbie Lane, Mansfield • 817-453-1682 • fuzzystacoshop.com

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

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

J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill

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

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MAKER arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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• SPEAKING OF SPORTS Because of the coronavirus, new Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy hasn’t had much of a chance to meet and get to know his team.

VIRUS MAKES IT HARD TO PEG THE COWBOYS

A

re you ready for some football? When Hank Williams Jr crooned that phrase for the first time we all answered with a resounding, “Yes!” We are Texans, after all, and we are always ready for football. Besides, it was released on Monday Night Football in 1996. At the time of its release The Cowboys had won three of the previous four Super Bowls. That song became an anthem for football fans, especially Cowboys fans in the glorious 1990s.

So, what would be the anthem for this football season?

“Strange Days” by the Doors, perhaps. Maybe, “Isn’t Life Strange” by the Moody Blues. Never has our life been more strange and never have we John anticipated a football Rhadigan season with such trepidation. Not just because we have no idea what the Cowboys will be, but because we are not sure if the Cowboys will be.

Obviously, there will still be a franchise, but will there be a season, and, if so, will that season include fans in the stands?

It is one thing to have no fans in attendance for baseball or golf; these are sports with tons of quiet time punctuated by moments of tremendous excitement and tremendous noise.

Football is different. The football fan is vocal, demonstrative and even angry about supporting a favorite team. That edge that the “12th Man” provides would be greatly missed.

As long as the game is on TV we will be OK, but what can we expect to see from the Cowboys when we tune in? After all, this was a strange offseason long before the Pandemic hit. Remember how long it took the front office to announce the fate of Jason Garrett? Strange! Remember how they did not sign Dak Prescott to a long-term deal even though we thought one was imminent back in September? Strange!

Remember how Jerry Jones conducted the draft from

Photo: si.com

international waters aboard the Bravo Eugenia? Strange ... cool, but strange!

Back in January we just thought this would be a season of change, not a season of strange. The biggest change, of course, is a new coaching staff. Even a noted Jason Garrett apologist, like yours truly, realized that a change had to be made. This team has too much talent to underachieve as it has.

So bring on Mike McCarthy and his Super Bowl-winning pedigree. He led the Packers to a Super Bowl win in the very stadium his team calls home. He is excited to work with this group because, as he told dallascowboys.com, “This is probably going to be the most experienced team that I’ve coached. So we’ll rely on that. I think if we were going to push one side or the other, we’d definitely push on the side of the volume because of our veteran experience.”

But do you want strange?!? He has never met with his team. The entire offseason has been virtual, including his first team meeting, where he stared into a camera rather than the eyes of his players. All NFL teams are experiencing the same thing, but in the off season of a new coaching staff this is particularly challenging. New policies, new procedures, new plays, new people will all be digested via the computer screen. Training camp will be shorter, too, so there is a lot to learn in a short period of time.

And so we wait. Later this month the Cowboys will get together at the Star and begin training camp with their new head coach. They are not sure what to expect; neither are we.

As we have learned to do with so many things during this Pandemic, we hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

We are hoping to hear the theme music at the start of Monday Night Football. The last line of “Are You Ready for Some Football” says, “All my rowdy friends are here on Monday Night.” Even that will be different this year, somehow – “All my rowdy friends are Virtually here or social distancing on Monday Night” just doesn’t have the same ring to it.

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

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Thank You!

To all our sponsors and supporters who made our first Virtual Fundraiser for “Love That Smile” a huge success!

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CASA OF TARRANT COUNTY’S VIRTUAL SUPERHERO RUN KICK-OFF EVENT: OCT 24, 10AM-1PM AT CENTRAL BIBLE CHURCH

Drive through and pick up your goody bag, shirt and medal! Don’t miss candy giveaways, superhero appearances and fun activities.

VIRTUAL RUN: OCT 24-31, LOCATION OF YOUR CHOICE

Track your run through the ASICS Runkeeper app, receive prizes delivered to your door and participate in FUN contests including best selfie and best costumes!

To register visit SpeakUpForAChild.org arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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• EVENTS, ETC.

Drink up!

T

ITINERARY Your guide to fun (and the like)

PLAY BALL! ...

AT PRESSTIME, your Texas Rangers were preparing to begin the COVID-19-delayed 2020 Major League Baseball season, which will include 15 home games this month.

The Rangers are scheduled to host the Los Angeles Angels on Aug. 7-9, the Seattle Mariners on Aug. 10-12, the San Diego Padres on Aug. 17-18, the Oakland A’s on Aug. 24-27 and the Los Angeles Dodgers on Aug. 28-30.

Because the schedule was set back almost four months, this season will feature 60 games, which likely won’t feature a chance for fans to enjoy the action at new Globe Life Field – at least, not at the start of the campaign.

No matter – local fans can catch all the action on Fox Sports Southwest, with pre- and post-game analysis being provided by Arlington Today sports columnist John Rhadigan.

To keep up with all the inside information on the Rangers, visit texasrangers.com.

IT’S TEE TIME ...

ARLINGTON GOLF wants to remind you that its courses are open for play – and that your safety remains its top priority. Arlington Golf has been following the guidelines and procedures outlined by the CDC, WHO and regulatory agencies, in addition to taking extra steps to provide a safe environment for all patrons and staff. Here are some updated policies and safety measures: • Arlington Golf will administer two carts per foursome.

• All bunker rakes, ball washers, and water coolers on courses have been removed.

• Please do not touch or use the flagstick during play.

Hole inserts are being used to assist.

• Driving range baskets are being disinfected between each use.

• Golf carts are being thoroughly sanitized before rental including Visage GPS Screens.

For more: arlingtongolf.com/covid-19.

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he rescheduled TX StrassenFest is tentatively set to be held from 3 - 7 p.m. on Aug. 15 at Texas Live!

Attendees can get 15 samples of great Spring and early Summer beers, while enjoying live entertainment throughout the day. You can bring your pup, as this event is dog-friendly, and proceeds from the fest will benefit the Humane Society of North Texas.

The Beer Baron VIP Ticket Package includes early entry (2 p.m.); a souvenir tasting mug; a fanny pack; a doggie bandana; 20 Tasting Coins (extra coins are available for purchase); one Pretzel Hut voucher; access to the Bratwurst Tent, Pretzel Hut and Popcorn Stand; and an option for special pricing and express entrance to the Texas Red Dirt Concert.

The Beer Meister General Admission Ticket Package includes a souvenir tasting mug; a fanny pack; 15 tasting coins; access to the Bratwurst Tent, Pretzel Hut and Popcorn Stand; and an option for special pricing and express entrance to the Texas Red Dirt Concert.

This event is 21+ only (proper ID is required) and is standing room only. Most samples will cost one coin.

Premium samples may cost more than one sample coin.

For more: texas-live.com.

Circle the date

R

iver Legacy Foundation’s Fall into Nature Fall Festival is scheduled for Oct. 10-11 at River Legacy Parks and River Legacy Living Science Center.

Fall Festival is one of four annual fundraisers to support environmental education at River Legacy Living Science Center and River Legacy Park. This family friendly fall festival combines the best of After Dark in the Park and the City’s Eco-Fest through a variety of games, crafts and activities.

For more: riverlegacy.org/fall-festival.

Coming soon!

Levitt Pavilion Arlington is proud to introduce the latest addition to the Arlington Cultural Arts District

Grand Opening Fall 2020!

The hospitality center features include: • The Arlington Tomorrow Foundation Hospitality Suite • Catering kitchen • Concert-viewing deck • Women’s restrooms • Men’s restrooms

The new hospitality suite is perfect to rent for receptions, business meetings, workshops and private parties of all kinds!

• Family restroom

100 W. Abram St • 817.543.4308

Photo by Glenda Beckwith

All Star “Place for Live Music” - Arlington Today readers

RIVER LEGACY FOUNDATION

CLAY SHOOT

SavE THE DATE

10.25.20

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!!!"#$%&#'&()*+",#( arlingtontoday.com • August 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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• FINISH LINE

UNITY COUNCIL: A positive way for Arlington

W

hen Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams was campaigning for his first election, he shared a vision of unity for all the city’s residents.

The first formal collaboration of diversified citizens was launched in 2017 with the creation of The Community Relations Commission to engage the community, share information and promote participation in civic and community matters.

Members use their influence, contacts, relationships and skill sets to advance unified community and city affairs.

They work expressly to advance the vision of Arlington’s Kindness Initiative by engaging businesses, city services, social services, schools and non-profits to inject kindness into the culture of the American Dream Richard City.

Greene A goal of 400,000 acts of kindness was set, and each expression or action from one to another is being documented by reports from citizens that come in to the city via online or on the go using the Ask Arlington App. The success of the program can be found on the city’s website, where descriptions of the reports are shared for all to see.

Now comes a new, companion initiative launched by the mayor and city council last month. It is a citizen-led Unity Council as the city continues its work to create, as described in its formation, “an exemplary, safe environment in which to live learn, work and play for all residents – regardless of race, ethnicity or national origins.”

The city’s news release explains its further purpose: The Arlington City Council on Tuesday made its first appointments to the 25-member Unity Council, whose mission will be to gather community input, research best practices and recommend strategies that the City of Arlington could implement

to promote and encourage greater equality across our community.

The Unity Council’s work to create a racial equity plan is part of the City’s commitment to equality, inclusion, and the elimination of institutional racism and other forms of discrimination in its policies and practices.

From police reform to the planned adoption of a racial equity plan by next year, Mayor Williams said the city will advance a number of short, medium and long term goals that aim to build unity in the community and improve life for all.

“It will be a continual journey, yet we are trying to work so we are able to make progress all along the way. This isn’t a situation where we are trying to put off things, but neither are we trying to move too fast,” Williams said. “There are some things that are real clear cut that we can do to make a difference in our community. We are working toward equality and justice so we can live in unity.

That is the goal.”

The city council also unanimously adopted Racial Equity and Equity Related to COVID-19 resolutions and the charge for the Unity Council, which is based on a framework provided by the National League of Cities’ Race, Equity and Leadership initiative.

Community conversations are already under way. Last month, Pastor Kennedy Jones invited members of the Arlington Police Department to participate in the Equal Protection and Justice Under the Law Summit at the Greater Community Missionary Baptist Church last month.

Kennedy was among those appointed to the Unity Council that also includes the 15-member Community Relations Commission.

Dr. Ronnie Goines, pastor of Koinonia Christian Church, called the creation of the Unity Council “a major stride in the right direction” in broadening the community’s understanding of the challenges and hurdles that exist.

“The Unity Council is such a major thing because it expands all of our perspectives. When you bring in some of the best minds in Arlington – people who have a heart for the city and a heart for humanity – nothing but good can come out of that.”

Arlington is leading the way forward to ensure a quality of life that lifts all its citizens.

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

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Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God .

Philippianns 4:6

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