August 2021 by Arlington Today

August 2021

your community • your magazine

Today

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ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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Contents

ON THE COVER August 2021

your community • your magazine

August 2021 • Volume 8 • Issue 8

Today

THE ALL STAR EDITION

Earlier this year our readers voted online at arlingtonday.com for their favorites in more than 160 categories. In this issue we reveal who/what won and who/what earned honorable mention ... Page 36

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Volume 8, Issue 8 • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

READERS’ CHOICE ALL STAR AWARDS

Here are five of the 2021 Arlington Today Readers’ Choice All Star winners: Dr. Ravi Doctor, Dr. Melissa Danchak, Dr. Jason Butler, Al Clark and Pantego Christian Academy. Profiles on winners and honorable mentions begin on page 40.

DEPARTMENTS Starting Line 14 This ‘n Data 16 • Around Town 24 Scene 26 • Style 112 Keen Cuisine 124 Speaking of Sports 126 • Itinerary 128 Finish Line 130

30 We’ve got to hand it to him ...

UTA alum Mel Jackson’s invention perfects the way we sanitize

32 55 years in the same family This month’s classic car, a Mustang, has a story that is three generations old

NEXT MONTH ...

114 Q&A We visit with Paulette Tutor, executive director of Leadership Arlington 118 You won’t want to miss The Plastic Daisies Discover what local music artist Nathan Walters was thinking during 2020 120 Growing in numbers

Here’s how the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce is serving local businesses

122 Safety first

A new app keeps Arlington drivers abreast of roadwork issues ahead

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Theatre Arlington is about to undergo a significant renovation. You can read about it in the September issue of Arlington Today.

•

STARTING LINE your community • your magazine

EXECUTIVE BOARD Executive Publisher Judy M. Rupay

My All Star moment

CEO Richard Greene

iven that this is our annual All Star edition, I’m mindful of a personal All Star memory that profoundly shaped my life in manners both painful and rewarding. It requires some setting ... The year was 1960-something, and shortly after the conclusion of the Richland Youth Association baseball season, my dad was selected to be the assistant coach of our traveling All Star team. It was quite an honor, but he was quite a coach. Deftly trying to convince a rag-tag collection of average-skill 12 year olds that they could be champions, he almost succeeded – we finished second in the league. For his reward, Coach Y got to join a bunch of fast-aging fat guys who shouldn’t be wearing baseball uniforms in wearing one. Indeed, he and the team set our sights on a postseason schedule that would take us to Altus, Okla., among various baseball meccas, Yale as we pursued the coveted Bronco Youngblood League national championship. Editor Wait ... Did I say “we”? In what is likely an unprecedented move by a baseball coaching parental figure (in the history of baseball-coaching parental figures, no less), Coach Y called his shortstop into the living room and proceeded to tell him he didn’t make the team. Yep, you read that right. A Dad Coach didn’t select his Son Player to be an All Star. Here’s why, as he painfully explained: I was a decent-fielding, poor-hitting, average-running player. The All Star team is supposed to be composed of only the league’s best players. I wasn’t one of those, and it wouln’t be fair to someone who was one of those if I made the team and he didn’t. I’m pretty sure I didn’t hear that last part, as I was too busy rapidly retiring to my bedroom, wailing all the while. I am fairly certain I vowed, in between sobs, that I’d never speak to the assistant All Star coach again. Which was a shame, because I wouldn’t have gotten to thank him for teaching me a rather significant lesson. In fact, it might be the most significant lesson I ever learned from the coach: Doing the right thing, while often difficult, is always the best course to take. ALWAYS. This month, we pay tribute to literally hundreds of people in the Arlington/ Mansfield/Grand Prairie area who do the right things routinely. Our All Star team is composed of the best of the best, because it was chosen by the best of the best: our readers. I highly recommend that you set aside some time to pore over the profiles of this year’s winners and honorable mentions. I think you’ll discover that we’ve got a lot of remarkable folks here doing a lot of remarkable things. I can’t vouch, however, for how they look in baseball uniforms.

yale@arlingtontoday.com Visit arlingtontoday.com, like us on Facebook 14

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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EDITORIAL Editor Yale Youngblood Sports Columnist John Rhadigan Special Columnist Major General Patrick Brady Website & Social Media Manager Bailey Woodard Graphic Artist Francisco Cuevas Contributing Writer Kenneth Perkins Contributing Photographers Dwayne Lee, Heather Lee, Bruce Maxwell SALES / CIRCULATION Business Manager Bridget Dean Sales Managers Laura DiStefano, Andrea Proctor, Debbie Roach, Tricia Schwartz Distribution Manager Hanna Areksoussi PRODUCTION Production Manager Francisco Cuevas ARLINGTON TODAY is published monthly. Copyright 2021 Arlington Today, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without permission of the publisher. The inclusion of advertising is considered a service to readers and is not an endorsement of products. Basic subscriptions are $33.95 for 12 issues. To subscribe, e-mail subscriptions@arlingtontoday.com.

ARLINGTON TODAY GIVES BACK

Arlington Today magazine proudly sponsors Arlington Urban Ministries, CASA, Dental Health Arlington, Junior League of Arlington, Levitt Pavilion Arlington, and Theatre Arlington.

Phone number: (817) 303-3304

Putting your health above it all. 2021 All Star Winner for Best Emergency Room and 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. 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.

• THIS ‘N DATA Photo: City of Arlington

Photo: Texas Health Resources

ENJOYING THE VIEW

Texas Health Heart & Vascular Hospital earns Platinum distinction

‘Brighten My Day’ Kaleidoscope offers a new way to appreciate Meadowbrook Park

ith heart disease being the leading cause of death in the United States, Texas Health Resources is addressing the problem with quality, science-based guidelines for treating heart attack patients. This focus on quality care helped Texas Health Heart & Vascular Hospital Arlington become one of seven Texas Health facilities to earn this year’s American College of Cardiology’s National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR) Chest Pain – MI Registry Performance Achievement Award. The national award annually recognizes hospitals that provide a high standard of care for patients suffering a heart attack, which is when a blood clot in a coronary artery blocks blood flow to the heart. According to statistics published this year by the American Heart Association, more than 365,700 Americans died of heart disease in 2018. Delving closer to home, recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported more than 46,100 Texans lost their battle against heart disease in 2019. With more than 400 facilities recognized across the country this year (with Platinum serving as the highest level), Texas Health Heart & Vascular Hospital Arlington earned a Platinum Performance Achievement Award.

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

ant to see some public art through a new lens? Artists Eddie and Mary Phillips of Mansfield created the interactive art piece, “Brighten My Day,” a Kaleidoscope of Grandeur, for Meadowbrook Park’s growing sculpture garden. Park visitors are able to enjoy bright colors by peering into the eyepiece of the oversized kaleidoscope. “I feel during these current times the kaleidoscope might brighten the day of many, put a sparkle in the eye of the weary and cause the brain cells to dance around again,” says Joe Bruner, the Arlington Sculpture Garden Foundation’s art selection chairman. “The piece has both whimsical and artistic greatness. We are so excited to add this to the Arlington Sculpture Garden collection at Meadowbrook Park.” The 54-acre park at 1300 E. Dugan St. also features a nine-hole golf course, hike and bike trails, a basketball court, a Monarch butterfly waystation, a picnic area, playground and park pavilion. Other sculptures at Meadowbrook Park include “The Sea” by Otello Guarducci, “Leave Your Mark” by Janna Tidwell, “Blue Sky Dream” by Seth Vandable, “Dragonflies” by an uncredited artist, “Fern Fronds” by Pascale Pryor, and “TexScape” by Rock Romano.

City Square serves food (and fun) at the GP Main Library

itySquare will be serving food + fun at the Grand Prairie Main Library Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. through Aug. 12. Participants can enjoy a free lunch for kids ages 1 to 18 years old, as well as activities such as kickball, card games and more. Look for the food truck in the parking lot of the library, located at 901 Conover Drive. For more information, email Jennifer Lusk at jllusk@gptx.org.

• THIS ‘N DATA

LOCAL AUTHOR IS BREAKING IMPORTANT NEW GROUND

SCOOPS 1. Washima Huq, Business and Community Engagement Partner with Texas Trust Credit Union, has been awarded the Mavericks Community Shining Star award by the UT Arlington Student Society of Real Estate. The award honored 34 people who have contributed positively to the community, especially during the pandemic. 2. Citing strong budgetary performance and flexibility, Standard & Poors has affirmed the AAA long-term rating for the The City Of Mansfield’s series 2021 combination tax and revenue certificates of obligation.

3. The City of Arlington is participating in a nationally

funded policy initiative for small and mid-size cities to advance innovative, evidence-based solutions to address their pressing housing challenges. The Housing Solutions Lab, led by an interdisciplinary team from the New York University Furman Center with funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, will help cities to plan, develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate promising local housing policies that advance equity and opportunity for Arlington residents.

RAISE YOUR HAND if you root, root, rooted for the home team known as the Dallas-Fort Worth Spurs when the team debuted at Turnpike Stadium in 1965. Keep that hand up if you got a broken bat from former Spur/eventual Baltimore Oriole Don Baylor during a double header several years later. (You have to put your hand down now. Only editor Yale Youngblood accomplished that latter feat.)

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

oping to broaden literative narratives for African-American children, University of Texas at Arlington alumnus Ashley Finley founded JJ Carson Press, LLC, a publishing company that focuses on books that celebrate the stories and culture of children of color. “I want black children to see themselves in my books,” Finley says. “And, not just see themselves, but value themselves, be proud of their heritage, their features, their culture – everything that makes them who they are.” Finley’s books also have an additional component that makes them unique. Each one has a social-emotional concept woven into the storyline. Finley, who holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work, and a teaching certificate, has vowed to use all of the tools in her toolbox to create stories that are well received by young readers. “As I have worked with children in various capacities, whether it be in therapy, teaching, or mentoring, I have found that many of them lack certain social skills and adequate levels of emotional awareness that are important for healthy and happy relationships.” Finley’s current project, “Jade’s Secret Ingredients: A Recipe for Managing Feelings,” was released in May. The story’s main character, Jade, is a young girl who sometimes has big feelings. While baking with her beloved grandmother, Jade learns healthy ways to manage her feelings as they arise. “This book not only teaches children simple emotional management techniques, like taking breaks and deep breathing, but it also pays homage to the grandmother/grandchild relationship that is so important in the AfricanAmerican community. Many times, our grandmothers are an intricate part of our village, and I wanted to use this story to celebrate the relationships that we have with them.” “Jade’s Secret Ingredients: A Recipe for Managing Feelings” is available from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, BooksAMillion, Half Price Books, Target, and other fine book retailers.

WIP grant helps levitt support local talent

rlington-based Women Inspiring Philanthropy will invest $50,000 to boost Levitt’s “Share The Stage” initiative supporting local music talent. The new program seeks to showcase “diverse, emerging, and established musical talent based in North Texas/the DFW Metroplex,” primarily through booking local talent as opening acts for the Levitt’s free concert series. Among the local artists already featured this season as part of Share the Stage are: Blaine Mitchell; Elaina Kay and Texicana. For more: levittpavilionarlington.org/events

Winner Winner Readers’ Readers’Choice Choice

VOTED VOTED BEST BEST BRUNCH, BRUNCH, BEST BEST PLACE PLACE TO TO GO GO FOR FOR LUNCH, LUNCH, BEST BEST BED BED && BREAKFAST, BREAKFAST, AND AND BEST BEST SPA SPA

All AllStar Star AARLINGTON RLINGTON Today Today your community your community • your• magazine your magazine

• THIS ‘N DATA

ARLINGTON REMEMBERS CIVIC LEADER TOBY GOODMAN

Photo: City of Arlington

BACK TO SCHOOL KICKOFF IS AUG. 7

he seventh annual Arlington ISD Back to School Kickoff is set for 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on Aug. 7 at AT&T Stadium. The drivethru event, sponsored by the Gene and Jerry Jones Family Foundation, will provide free supplies to students in need. Each student will receive ageappropriate school supplies, information for free eye, dental and health screenings, and details on free immunizations. For more: aisd.net/family-support

#atpetofthemonth

Jeter is my 31/2 - yearold, one-quarter lab, three-quarters German Shepherd. He loves baseball, likes to chase tennis balls and enjoys going for walks. He’s playful, and he loves kids and other dogs. – Maryhelen Bronson

Arlington By the numbers 20

40,300

he City of Arlington has lowered its flags half-staff last month in memory of long-time Arlington attorney and former State Rep. Toby Goodman, whose legislative accomplishments include pioneering juvenile justice reform and rewriting Texas Family Code. Goodman, who represented Arlington and Tarrant County in the Texas House from 1991 to 2007, died on Sunday, July 18, 2021. He was 72. Most recently, Goodman worked as a family law and civil attorney at Goodman & Clark in Arlington. He also served as past director for both the Tarrant County Family Bar Association and the Arlington Bar Association, according to the biography on his law firm’s website. Goodman also served as an adjunct professor at The University of Texas at Arlington from 1974 to 1982 and as an attorney for the City of Arlington from 1974 to 1977. During his tenure as state representative, Goodman served on numerous committees and taskforces. These include serving as Tarrant County Civil Justice Task Force chairman, House Committee on Juvenile Justice and Family Issues chairman and vice chairman, Governor’s Juvenile Justice Taskforce chairman and Attorney General’s School Violence Task Force chairman. Goodman’s numerous honors include being named among the Ten Best Legislators by Texas Monthly, Ten Best Legislators in the Family Law Section from the State Bar of Texas, Legislator of the Year by the National Child Support Enforcement Association, Legislator of the Year by the Texas Council of Child Welfare Boards and a Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association Certificate of Distinction. His substantial legislative accomplishments reflect his intellect and work ethic, as well as the respect he enjoyed among his colleagues. He was loved for his sense of fairness and world class sense of humor. Goodman had immense love for his family. He was a devoted father and friend. Goodman is survived by his wife of 38 years, Gloria Goodman; son, Brian Goodman; and daughters, Lauri Goodman and Christie Goodman.

The approximate seating capacity for a Texas Rangers game at Globe Life Field

The number of districts represented by Arlington City Council members

The number of tennis courts at facilities operated by the City of Arlington

Source: mlb.com/rangers

Source: arlingtontx.gov

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

• AROUND TOWN

A model of perseverance is ready for her senior year

Imani Mogaka has gone from being homeless to being a Texas Rangers Richard Greene Scholar.

Diligence and resilience are simply part of Imani’s DNA now, a or nearly two months while a fifth grader at Roquemore better brought on by a worse. Elementary, home for Imani Mogaka was the back seat “Because so many people have poured into me I want to of a 2010 Kia Spectra. Few knew. She’d arrive at school as pour into people as well,” Imani says. “I want to one day create always – neatly dressed, homework at the ready, flashing that affordable luxury housing for single parents.” deep dimpled smile. She washed up at the nearest Quick Trip or a “She’s outstanding,” says Melanie Hall, Lamar’s AVID hospital restroom or whatever was expediently on the route. coordinator. “She stands out with her smile, her heart to serve That route was often different because where the car was others, and her passion for continuous growth. She is a mature parked for the night was often different. young lady who chooses to focus on what matters most, her “We had to move from parking lot to parking lot,” Imani education.” explains, speaking of her and her mother, Ryn Robinson, Imani is part academic nerd, part theater geek. She’s a member “because security is always knocking on your car window saying of the National Honor Society, sings in school choirs, performs in ‘You can’t stay here.’” theater plays. Her run for class president was based on what she Now a senior at Lamar High School, Imani doesn’t speak wanted to do for others. much about this period in life because she fears being labeled “a “We didn’t get a chance to have much of a junior year and victim.” barely had a sophomore year,” Imani Until she must. says. “So I want to do whatever I can Last school year Imani discussed her to make sure our senior year is great in homelessness during Richard Greene the best possible way.” Scholar candidate interviews and again Imani’s mother describes her as when up for the Boys & Girls Club of Kenneth Perkins “one of those kids with a heart for Tarrant County’s Youth of the Year award. people. When I say it like that, I mean “That whole era of my life. . . it took that sometimes I am a little concerned some time for me to actually realize what IMANI MOGAKA is teaching because there are times I feel like she happened,” Imani says. “For me, I am still something many of us should gives up too much of herself.” working through that internally. I’ll think learn: You are not your Imani says that’s easy to do, because, about it and start crying. But what I have again, so many people have “poured realized is how much stronger it made me. situation. into her.” To let me know you can persevere through Like Lamar’s Hall. When Imani didn’t have a work desk at anything.” home, one appeared on her doorstep. Consider her the poster child of perseverance. This fall she’ll Of course, that support system is headed by her mother, who represent Lamar as its Richard Greene Scholar and 2021-22 Class has been instrumental in keeping Imani positive, especially President. during their most difficult times. The Boys & Girls Club of Tarrant County’s Youth of the Year Recently her supporter-in-chief was behind the wheel during a award? Got it. college road trip that spanned six cities and three states (including “Imani is an amazing representative of what we hope for young California) in seven days. people in our society to be,” says Daphne Barlow Stigliano, CEO No college choice yet, but Imani says wherever she goes, she is and President of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant ready for what awaits her. County. “Far too often we hear stories of when things go wrong. “One thing being homeless taught me,” Imani said, “is that Imani, for me, represents a more common story, and that’s young things are temporary. You are not your situation.” people working hard to succeed.” Kenneth Perkins has been a contributing writer for Arlington Today since it debuted. He is a freelance writer, editor and photographer.

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

• PICTURE-PERFECT MOMENTS

Scene

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

Jim Ross is sworn in as our new mayor

Photo: City of Arlington

With family by his side, Jim Ross was sworn in as Arlington’s new mayor during the June 29 City Council meeting.

Timeless Concerts “From London to Dublin”

Photos: Photos:Timeless City of Arlington Concerts

Timeless Concerts recently presented “From London to Dublin” at Arlington Lakehouse. (Left photo) Kathy Thornton Holton, Patricia Laird, soprano Sabrina Romero-Wilson and Steve Laird. (Middle photo) Lynette Mangels, Keith Mangels and Linda Spradling. (Right photo) Will Ross, Theresa Ross, violinist LeeAnne Chenoweth, Janet Brode and Brian Brode.

Independence Day Parade

Photo: Yale Youngbloodº

Photos: City of Arlington

After taking a year off due to the pandemic, the annual Arlington Independence Day Parade was a welcome sight last month, drawing a huge crowd to the streets of Downtown Arlington. All manner of patriots celebrated the event, from local law enforcement to local pet lovers Donna Darovich and Cyndi Golden.

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center honors area fireman firemanº

Photo courtesy of MMMC

During a recent Mansfield City Council meeting Methodist Mansfield Medical Center honored Brandon Rogers for talking a woman off a bridge and saving her life.

All hail the Chevy Suburban!

Photo courtesy of Emilie Sims

Hollywood Chamber president Rana Ghadban, GM Assembly Plant Executive Director Bill Kulhanek and Mayor Jeff Williams recently honored the Chevrolet Suburban with an Award Of Excellence star in the Entertainment District. The Arlington-made vehicle has appeared in more than 1,750 films and television series.

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Dalworthington Gardens ribbon cutting ceremony

Mansfield Custom Homes CEO Hayden Dalley honored Photo courtesy of Tara Cao

Dignitaries participate in a ribbon cutting for Dalworthing Gardens’ new playground shade structure funded entirely by citizen donations.

Photocourtesy of Julie Short Photo: City of Arlington

Hayden Dalley, the CEO of Mansfield Custom Homes, was recently awarded national recognition with a “Top 100 Leaders in Real Estate and Construction Award” at the WRECONF conference in Las Vegas.

• UTA TODAY

Francis “Prince” Kobty was the beloved founder of Prince Lebanese Grill.

WE’VE GOT TO HAND IT TO HIM ...

UTA alum Mel Jackson’s invention perfects the way we sanitize • By Herb Booth

University of Texas at Arlington alumnus leaned on his alma mater to help him perfect an invention that he recently patented, and it already has a vast market. Mel Jackson, who earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from UTA in 2010, invented the Tabletizer, a device that attaches to the underside of a table, counter, bar or desk to provide a convenient way to sanitize a person’s hands. “I wanted to create a more convenient way for a person to sanitize their hands instead of going to the restroom or using a distanced sanitizer location,” says Jackson, whose wife, brother and grandmother also all graduated from UTA. “Now users of the Tabletizer can remain seated or standing and be closer in proximity to the device’s location. With COVID-19 affecting the globe, hygiene awareness, practices and products like Tabletizer have become even more relevant and vital for businesses.” Jackson collaborated with students on a senior design team in the College of Engineering to enhance the prototype. “I am thankful UTA assisted me with this product,” says Jackson, who is part of a team of safety professionals at

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Straightway Solutions LLC and is an authorized Occupational Safety and Health Administration trainer. Austin Harvey, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in May, led the student team that helped modify the Tabletizer. Fellow UT Arlington students John Wortham, Jennifer Okpala and Rocky Vera Cruz also were on the team. “It was great that we got paired up with Mr. Jackson,” Harvey says. “Our job was to make the Tabletizer more compact, more usable. We inserted infrared sensors to make it an automated, hands-off pump. We also designed it to use less materials but to keep the dispensed volume the same.” Raul Fernandez, professor in practice in the Mechanical and Aerospace Photo: UTA Engineering Department, says the collaboration between old and new Mavericks was great to see. “The partnership really shows students what the real world is about,” Fernandez says. “It gives them something concrete, taking what they’ve learned in the classroom and using it for real-world solutions.” For more: facebook.com/Tabletizer

• BEHIND THE WHEELS

55 YEARS IN THE SAME FAMILY

Story and pictures by Richard Greene

hile we’ve visited other Mustang owners in previous features on these pages, this one has a pedigree the others can’t match. In fact, none of the classic car stories I’ve told before has a provenance of ownership such as this one. This 1966 Fastback, K code with a Cobra package belongs to 18-year-old Caden Blake that he received as a gift from his late grandfather, David Lindsay, who had purchased it new from Caden’s great-grandfather at a Ford dealership in North Carolina. That makes Caden his family’s fourth-generation owner of this 55-year-old Pony car that has just been restored, from the frame up, to its original condition via a process that took three years to complete. All that work was funded by Caden’s grandfather as

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Caden and Michelle Blake pose with the 1966 Fastback Mustang that has been part of the family since Caden’s great-grandfather acquired it at his Ford dealership in 1966. Over a three-year process, the classic has been restored to its original condition.

part of the inheritance the latter left for him. Caden’s mom, Michelle – that’s her standing in the pictures here – shares her memories of the family’s journey with the car that launched the Ford Motor Company’s huge success with the Mustang: “As the first grandchild, I spent many weeks during the summer and holiday seasons playing at my grandfather’s dealership. He would give me a clip board, emphasize the importance of the inventory, and send me to the lot to count the cars, usually by color and size. I spoke to customers and helped them locate the Ford they were interested in, and he always told me I was an excellent salesman – the best in the business. “This ’66 Mustang was my 22-year-old father’s first new car. It took us everywhere as we traveled

The ‘66 Mustang was designed to match the vision of Ford’s then General Manager, Lee Iaccoca, for the car: It would seat four, have bucket seats and a floor-mounted shifter, weigh no more than 2,500 pounds and be no more than 180 inches in length, sell for less than $2,500, and have multiple power, comfort and luxury options.

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Michelle and Caden Blake both have special memories of this special automobile.

the Southern U. S. and eventually moved to Texas. At age 5, I remember standing in the back floorboard, straddling the hump, and peering over my mom’s shoulder as we brought my sister, Christy, home from the hospital when she was born. “The back seat folds down, so on road trips, she and I would lie back there and look up at the stars through that big, fastback window. Both she and I learned to drive the Mustang.” But there’s more that leaves this family committed to David’s admonition that this special car would never be sold even though there’s been many offers from those who wanted to buy it. “My father frequently sat in the car with Caden and let him pretend to drive it. He would show him the Cobra engine and medallion on the glove box and explain how fast and special the car was to him,” Michelle says. As my son admired the pony interior, he told him that someday the car would be his. He wanted him to enjoy it and treasure the car always. “He made good on that promise and when he passed, he left it to Caden, only nine years old at the time. Now he’s the proud owner who truly appreciates 34

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

PaPa David’s special gift of his rare fastback with a Cobra package.” Lee Iacocca, Ford’s general manager at the time, would be pleased with the love this family has for his concept of the first-generation Mustang. In 1964 he gave the design teams five goals as reported by Wikipedia: It would seat four, have bucket seats and a floor-mounted shifter, weigh no more than 2,500 pounds and be no more than 180 inches in length, sell for less than $2,500, and have multiple power, comfort and luxury options. That Caden’s Tahoe Turquoise car is a perfect reflection of the achievement of those goals makes it a standout destined to win some trophies as he proudly presents it in upcoming car shows. He will also be sharing his story to his generation upon whom depends the enlargement of the American love affair with the automobiles that changed our country. There was one more family heirloom discovered with the car – some of David’s old cigars that have now been sealed in the soundproofing. “This way,” as described by Caden’s father, Robert, “a small part of Caden’s grandpa will always be with him and his cherished Mustang.”

2021 ALL STARS ARLINGTON TODAY READERS’ CHOICE

PIZZA W: Mama’s Pizza HM: Old School Pizza Tavern

ATTORNEY - DIVORCE W: Stephanie A. Foster HM: Jim Ross Law Group

EATS/DRINKS/MERRIMENT

PLACE FOR BREAKFAST W: Grounds & Gold HM: Jay Jay Cafe

ASIAN CUISINE W (tie): Jade Cafe W (tie): Thai Texas HM: BFF Bistro

PLACE FOR LUNCH W: Restaurant506 at The Sanford House HM: J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill

ATTORNEY - ELDER LAW W (tie): Carolyn Dove W (tie): Karen Schroeder HM: Jim Ross Law Group

BAKERY W: Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery HM: Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop North Arlington

RESTAURANT PATIO W: El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill HM: The Tipsy Oak HM: El Arroyo

BBQ W: David’s Barbecue HM: Hurtado Barbecue Co.

SEAFOOD W: Mac’s Bar & Grill HM: The Catch/Flying Fish

BREWERY W: Legal Draft Beer Co. HM: Revolver

SPORTS BAR W: Texas Live! HM: No Frills Grill & Sports Bar

BRUNCH W: Restaurant506 at The Sanford House HM: The Tipsy Oak

STEAKHOUSE W: Mercury Chop House HM: Candlelight Inn

Here are the 2021 Arlington Area All Stars, as chosen by our readers (key: W-winner; HM-honorable mention):

BURGER W: The Grease Monkey HM: Twisted Root Burger Co. COFFEE SHOP W: Salter Bros. HM: MaryLou’s CRAFT BEER W: Division Brewing HM: Legal Draft Beer Co. DELI/SANDWICH SHOP W: Dino’s Subs HM: Hive HAPPY HOUR W: The Tipsy Oak HM: Mac’s Bar & Grill INTERNATIONAL CUISINE W: Prince Lebanese Grill HM: Fattoush Mediterranean Kitchen ITALIAN CUISINE W: Piccolo Mondo HM: Moni’s Pasta & Pizza

SUSHI W: Piranha Killer Sushi HM: Sushi Domo TACOS W: Cartel Taco Bar HM: Fuzzy’s Taco Shop TEA ROOM W: The Rose Garden Tea Room HM: Tin Tulip Tea Room TEX-MEX W: El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill HM: Lupe’s Tex Mex Grill WINE BAR W: Mercury Chophouse HM: Poured HOME LIFE ATTORNEY W: Jim Ross Law Group HM: Curnutt & Hafer ATTORNEY CRIMINAL DEFENSE W: Jim Ross Law Group HM: Bruce Ashworth

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

ATTORNEY - EMPLOYMENT W: Harris Cook, LLP ATTORNEY - FAMILY LAW W: Donna J. Smiedt HM: Harris Cook, LLP ATTORNEY LITIGATION /BUSINESS W: Curnutt & Hafer HM: Jim Ross Law Group ATTORNEY - PATENTS W: Norred Law, PLLC HM: Leavitt Eldredge Law Firm ATTORNEY PERSONAL INJURY W: Roger “Rocky” Walton ATTORNEY - REAL ESTATE W: Harris Cook, LLP HM: Curnutt & Hafer AUTO DEALER W: Don Davis Auto Group HM: McAndrew Motors AUTO DEALER LUXURY CARS W: Frank Kent Cadillac of Arlington HM: Park Place AUTO REPAIR W: McGraw’s Automotive HM: T&T Brake Service BACKYARD REMODELER W: R J Construction HM: Baldi Gardens BANK W: Frost Bank HM: Worthington National Bank BANK - CUSTOMER SERVICE W: Susser Bank HM: Frost Bank

BANK - LOCAL BANK W: Worthington National Bank HM: Pinnacle Bank HM: Susser Bank CREDIT UNION W (tie): Texas Trust Credit Union W (tie): Greater Texas Credit Union HM: EECU COMPUTER SERVICES W: Blanco I.T. HM: Bit by Bit CPA/TAX PREP W (tie): Parker & Richardson W (tie): PSK HM: Debra Freiheit HM: Justin Piepgrass CUSTOMER SERVICE W (tie): Wade Funeral Home W (tie): Gracie Lane HM: The Sanford House DAY CARE W: Primrose Schools HM: Kids “R” Kids Learning Academy DRY CLEANER W (tie): Bond Cleaners W (tie): Comet Cleaners HM: Oak Cleaners ELECTRICIAN W: Hightower Service, Inc. HM: Fox Electric FINANCIAL SERVICES W: Jack Webb (Edward Jones) HM: Worthington National Bank FOUNDATION REPAIR W: Integrity Foundation Repair HM: Structured Foundation Repairs GARDEN CENTER W: Green’s Produce & Plants HM: Hare’s Nursery HEATING / AC COMPANY W: Tom’s Mechanical W: Climate Experts HOME BUILDER W: Mansfield Custom Homes HM: Minzek Quality Homes

INSURANCE COMPANY/AGENT W (tie): GEC Insurance Services W (tie): Texas Insurance Agency HM: Shane Ferrell 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: Godbold Landscaping Services

PRESCHOOL / PRE-K W: Pantego Christian Academy HM: Primrose Schools

FLOORING STORE W: Hiltons Flooring HM: Floor & Decor

COSMETIC SURGERY W: Dr. Mike Thornton HM: Accent on You

PRIVATE SCHOOL W: Pantego Christian Academy HM: The Oakridge School

FURNITURE STORE W: Ivan Smith Furniture HM: Vintage Vibe

COUNSELING CENTER W: Rush Creek Counseling HM: Impact Counseling

PROPERTY MANAGER W: Doskocil Properties HM: Sterling Real Estate

GIFT SHOP W: Anything Goes HM: Gracie Lane

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

JEWELER W: Troy Vinson HM: Dixie’s Charms & More

DERMATOLOGIST W: Dr. Mary Adams HM: United Dermatology Associates

MAID / HOME ORGANIZATION W: Lazy Days Home Services HM: The Pampered House

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL W (tie): Michael Cunningham W (tie): Linda Magazzine HM: Brandee Kelley

MORTGAGE COMPANY W: SWBC Mortgage Corp. HM: Service First Mortgage

REMODELER W: R J Construction HM: Minzek Quality Homes

NEW HOME DEVELOPMENT W: Viridian HM: D.R. Horton

ROOFING W (tie): Frazier Roofs & Gutters W (tie): RJ Construction HM: Joe Hall Roofing

PATIO FURNITURE W: The Backyard Store HM: ACE Hardware PEST CONTROL W: Massey Services HM: Results Pest Management

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

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

TUTORING COMPANY W: Porter Tutoring HM: Knowledge Guides

PET CARE / GROOMING W: Pet Resort in the Gardens HM: Pixie’s Paws Pet Palace

VETERINARIAN W: Farrell Animal Hospital HM: Sanford Oaks Animal Clinic

PET SPECIALTIES W: Three Dog Bakery HM: Camp Bow Wow

STORE FRONT

PET TRAINING W: Lisa’s K-9 Kids HM: Pet Resort in the Gardens

ANTIQUES W: C&W Antiques HM: Cooper Street Antique Mall

PHOTOGRAPHER W: Southern Flair Photography HM: Major Images

APPLIANCE STORE W: Texas Appliance HM: Oliver Dyer Appliance

PLUMBING COMPANY W: Tom’s Plumbing, Inc. HM: Jim Williams Plumbing

BABY / CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE W: Maggie & Me Boutique HM: Giggles & Grins HM: Gracie Lane

POOL BUILDER/RENOVATION W: D & L Pools HM: Accent Pool Service POOL SERVICE W: Kelly’s Pool Care & Renovation HM: D & L Pools

BOUTIQUE W: Gracie Lane HM: Ashlaroo’s FLORIST W: Urban Country Flower Co. HM: H.E. Cannon Floral & Greenhouses

PLACE TO BUY “SPIRITS” W: Total Wine & More HM: SPEC’S RESALE SHOP W: Kid to Kid HM: Arlington ReSale SPORTING GOODS W: Academy HM: Dick’s Sporting Goods

DIALYSIS CENTER W: Davita HM: American Renal North Texas EAR / NOSE/ THROAT W: Central Park ENT HM: Dr. Christopher Lee EMERGENCY ROOM W: Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital HM: Medical City Arlington

WELLNESS

ENDODONTIST W: Dr. Charles Brown HM: Endodontic Associates of Arlington

ACUPUNCTURE W: China Acupuncture Clinic HM: Capuli Chiropractic

EXERCISE/FITNESS STUDIO W: The Pilates Effect HM: Texas Fitt

ASSISTED LIVING W: The Waterford on Cooper HM: Morada-Lake Arlington

FAMILY DENTIST W: Dr. Ravi Doctor HM: Dr. Hank Jacobs

AUDIOLOGIST W: Kos / Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids HM: Central Park ENT

FAMILY PHYSICIAN W (tie): Dr. An Wong W (tie): Dr. Theresa Stretch HM: Dr. David Lee

BARIATRIC SURGEON W: Dr. Clayton Frenzel with BodEvolve HM: Dr. Richard Carter

FAMILY PHYSICIAN PRACTICE W: Family HealthCare Associates HM: Arlington Family Practice

BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE W: Dr. Mark Bishara HM: Institute of Hormonal Balance

FERTILITY SPECIALIST W: Dr. Renju Raj (IVFMD) HM: Dr. Laura Lawrence

CARDIO SURGEON W: Dr. Stephen Lenhoff HM: Dr. Baron Hamman HM: The Heart Place CHIROPRACTOR W: Dr. Kenyon Godwin HM: Tricare Chiropractic COLORECTAL SURGEON W: Dr. Winston Chan (Texas Oncology) HM: Dr. Michael Mendelson COSMETIC DENTISTRY W: Dr. Ravi Doctor HM: Dr. Susan Hollar

FITNESS CENTER W: Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA HM: Texas Fitt GASTROENTEROLOGIST W: Dr. Kim Gentry HM: Dr. Charles Owen HEALTH FOOD STORE W: Sprouts HM: Whole Foods HOLISTIC MEDICINE W: Active Family Wellness Center HM: Capuli Chiropractic

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

HOME HEALTH CARE W: Nurse Next Door HM: Encompass Health HORMONAL SPECIALIST W: Dr. Gary Donovitz (Institute for Hormonal Balance) HM: SW Endocrinology & Diabetes HOSPITAL W: Methodist Mansfield Medical Center HM: Medical City Arlington HOSPITAL - PATIENT CARE W: Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital HM: Baylor Scott & White Rehabilitation INTERNAL MEDICINE W: Dr. Theresa Stretch HM: Dr. Thomas Barker LASIK W: Key-Whitman Eye Center HM: Kleiman Evangelista Eye Centers of Texas HM: Paragon Eye Associates MEDICAL BILLING COMPANY W: Medicaid Claim Solutions HM: TPMC Billing Services MEMORY CARE W: Walnut Creek Assisted Living & Memory Care HM: Heartis Arlington NEUROLOGIST W: Dr. Huy Nguyen HM: Dr. Halim Fadil NEUROSURGEON W: Dr. Sabatino Bianco OB/GYN W: Dr. Joan Bergstrom (Women’s Health Services) HM: Women’s Health Services (other doctors) ONCOLOGIST W: Dr. Alfred DiStefano (Texas Oncology) HM: Dr. John Adams (Texas Oncology) OPHTHALMOLOGIST W: Dr. Huy Tran HM: Dr. Tex Cole (First Eye Care) ORAL SURGEON W: Dr. John Shroyer HM: Dr. Fayette Williams ORTHODONTIST W: Dr. Moody Alexander HM: Hildebrand Orthodontics

ORTHOPEDIC HOSPITAL W: Baylor, Scott & White Orthopedic & Spine Hospital HM: Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON W: Dr. Jay Pond (Arlington Orthopedic Associates) HM: Dr. Vinkat Rapuri PAIN MANAGEMENT W: Dr. Jason Butler (Regency Pain & Therapy Institute) PMR SPECIALIST W: Dr. Todd Daniels (Arlington Orthopedic Associates) PEDIATRIC DENTIST W: Dr. Jennifer P. Ketchel (Arlington Pediatric Dentistry) HM: Park Place Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics PERSONAL TRAINER W: Caine Cambron (Train Caine) HM: Texas Fitt PHARMACY W: Randol Mill Pharmacy HM: Matlock Pharmacy PLASTIC SURGEON W: Accent on You HM: Arlington Plastic Surgery PODIATRIST W: Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers HM: Accent Podiatry Associates

RHEUMATOLOGIST W: Dr. Kathryn Hester HM: Dr. Joanna Geslani

LASER HAIR REMOVAL W: Bex Laser Aesthetix HM: Forever Young MedSpa

SLEEP STUDY/DOCTOR W: Dr. Robert McMichael HM: Dr. Joseph Austin

LOCAL PARK W: River Legacy Parks HM: Veterans Park

URGENT CARE W: MedExpress HM: CareNow

MASSAGE W: Massage Envy HM: Spa at The Sanford House

UROLOGIST W: Dr. James Vestal HM: Dr. Tony Mammen

MED SPA W: The Paragon Plastic Surgery & Med Spa HM: Bex Laser Aesthetix

VEIN DOCTOR W: Dr. Jon Senkowsky (Texas Health Vascular Surgical Specialists) HM: Dr. Thomas Eidson (Atlas Vein Care) WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM W: Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers HM: Active Family Wellness Center WELLNESS CENTER W: Active Family Wellness Center HM: Arlington Natural Wellness Center YOGA/BARRE STUDIO W: The Pilates Effect HM: Arlington Yoga Center PERSONAL SERVICES/ LEISURE

PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR W: Dr. Kathy Bailey HM: Dr. Savita Abrahams

BED & BREAKFAST W: The Sanford House HM: The Thornton Inn

PSYCHIATRIST W: Dr. Patrick Rabjohn (Rabjohn Behavioral Institute) HM: Elite Psychiatry

BOTOX W: The Paragon Plastic Surgery & Med Spa HM: Bex Laser Aesthetix HM: Skinwerx

PSYCHOLOGIST W: Mansfield Counseling HM: Cuppett Psychology PLLC PULMONOLOGIST W: Dr. David Plump HM: Dr. Tony Su REHABILITATON CENTER W: Texas Rehabilitation Hospital of Arlington HM: TMI Sports Medicine

DANCE STUDIO W: Miss Persis Studio of Dance HM: Momentum Dance GOLF COURSE W: Tierra Verde HM: Shady Valley Country Club GYMNASTICS W: Aerials School of Gymnastics HM: ASI Gymnastics

REJUVENATIVE MEDICINE CLINIC W: Resurgence Wellness HM: Open Door Med Spa

HAIR SALON W: Burt Grant SalonSpa HM: Maren Karsen Aveda Salon

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY W: The Orchards HM: Overture Highlands

HOTEL W: Live! by Loews-Arlington HM: Sheraton Arlington

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

NAIL SALON W: Queen’s Nails HM: La Bella Nail Spa OUTDOOR FESTIVAL W: River Legacy Fall Festival HM: Levitt Pavilion Summer Series PLACE FOR A KID’S PARTY W: River Legacy Living Science Center HM: Pump it Up PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC W: Levitt Pavilion HM: The Grease Monkey HM: Texas Live! PLACE TO VOLUNTEER W: Mission Arlington / Metroplex HM: River Legacy Living Science Center PLACE TO WORSHIP W: First Baptist Arlington HM: Fielder Church SKIN CARE W: Great Skin Spa & Facial Club HM: Bex Laser Aesthetix SPA W: The Sanford Spa & Salon HM: Daired’s Salon & Spa SUMMER CAMP W: Camp Thurman HM: River Legacy Living Science Center TRAVEL AGENT/AGENCY W: Primo Travel Services (Mischelle Arbelaez) HM: Cruise Planners (Linda Gardner) WEDDING/EVENT PLANNING W: Blanton Design & Solutions HM: The Abbey Estate

ALL STARS: ON THE COVER

Photo: Southern Flair Photography

An All Star in each of the past four Reader’s Choice polls, Dr. Jason Butler is part of the team at Regency Pain & Therapy Institute in Mansfield. The beautiful state-ofthe-art facility features 20,000 square feet of space designed to offer a full range of treatment options and services for patients suffering from chronic and acute pain.

Dr. Jason Butler Winner: Pain Management

r. Butler is honored to have been selected as a Reader’s Choice All Star in Pain Management for the fourth 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 many communities he serves. With the opening of his Mansfield location last summer, Dr. Butler now sees all his patients at the new facility, Regency Pain & Therapy Institute. The beautiful 20,000 square foot building allows for most services to be conveniently located under one roof and provides new and existing patients with state-of-the-art programs, treatments and amenities. Regency Pain & Therapy Institute offers cutting-edge pain management techniques and technology. Dr. Butler and his team work to decrease pain while increasing productivity, minimizing medication use, and maximizing

physical activity to help restore a patient’s overall quality of life. The Regency providers always strive to be as conservative as possible and only progress to more interventional treatments, if needed. At Regency Pain & Therapy Institute, you will find a team that takes a whole-body approach to your care. Instead of treating a few symptoms, their providers focus on treating the whole person, diagnosing your pain and finding the best, most meaningful way to reduce it and restore 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 to limit the impact it has on the lives of the patients he treats. Feedback from a recent patient reflects on that commitment, “the best doctor and staff anywhere and more pain relief than I have received in 16 years. I highly recommend!”

Regency Pain & Therapy Institute 74 Regency Pkwy., Mansfield • 817-419-6111 • painandtherapy.com 40

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Al Clark

Al Clark has been serving customers – as well as his community – for more than four decades. This year, he is being recognized for that loyalty with a fifth-straight Arlington Area All Star award.

Winner: Insurance - Home/Auto

l Clark has been helping Arlington-area customers with their insurance needs for more than four decades. As a way of saying “thanks,” many of those clients have teamed to reward his service and loyalty to them by naming the affable Clark a Readers’ Choice All Star for the fifth consecutive year. When he established the Al Clark State Farm Agency on Sept.1, 1979, Clark wasn’t sure just what was in store for the new company. But he was certain he would give his best to those he served. His best has become THE BEST. “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 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.”

Al Clark State Farm Agency 2452 W. Interstate 20 • 817-468-3033 • Al@AlClark.net arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: ON THE COVER

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

hree-time All Star Dr. Ravi Doctor and his highly skilled team are known throughout North Texas for their commitment to taking dentistry to the highest level, providing patients of all ages – facing all manner of dental situations – with the world-class care they deserve. Our practice’s incredible care starts the moment our patient enters the office. In the greeting room, you’ll find a space filled with oversized lounge chairs, calming music and an overall atmosphere that is more similar to a high-end spa, rather than a clinic. Fortunately, the luxury doesn’t end up front. In our treatment rooms, you’ll be able to put up your feet and unwind in our new, heated massage dental chairs. You’ll feel Photo: Bruce Maxwell like you’re floating on a cloud during your appointment! To ensure you’re as cozy as possible, DR. DOCTOR IS THE ONLY BOARD CERTIFIED ORAL IMPLANTOLOGIST IN warm, ultra-soft blankets are available, ARLINGTON. The practice has a highly trained staff for simple procedures such as as well. Above you, you’ll find high-def dental cleanings and fillings, to complex surgical procedures, such as sinus lifts and equipment with entertainment TV such as implant placement. They also assist in teaching other surgeons from around the world Hulu, Netflix, and more. on how to master their craft. If all this isn’t enough to curb your dental Dr. Doctor is an Accredited Diplomate with the American Board of Oral Implantology, related anxiety, we’re happy to offer nitrous International Congress of Oral Implantologists and serves as an implant instructor for oxide and other types of sedation dentistry, the California Implant Institute, the Implant Know-How Course and Dental XP Live Surgical Courses. as well, to help any lingering fears quickly Dr. Doctor doesn’t just offer leading-edge technology at his dental office – he also disappear. provides highly advanced techniques such as Pinhole Surgical Technique, (that only And, before you leave, you’ll be provided 1,500 dentists are trained to perform), which eliminates the use of traditional scalpels and with a warm, scented washcloth so you can sutures when treating the common problem of gum recession. He also has implemented feel completely renewed by the time you the newest advanced CT scan system to better examine airways, provide a more step out our door. comprehensive orthodontic evaluation and to be utilized for guided implant placement. Our attention to detail – and to our patients – was on full display over the past year and half, as our used – that’s right: two vacuums for each patient. team addressed COVID-19 by stepping up our game big time! Ensuring the safety of our patients and our team underscores We installed UV sterilizers for our main AC units that circulate our mission at the practice. For more than three decades in our whole office. Aerosol reduction vacuums were installed we have provided top-tier dental services, education and above each treatment room above the patient’s mouth and innovative care for the entire family. Our philosophy is The specialized face masks with direct delivery of fresh air were Golden Rule. This has always been the foundation for success installed for our whole team. Also, each treatment room has its within our practice. own UV air purifiers, plus another UV Plasma vacuum system is We treat patients as we would want to be treated.

About Dr. Ravi Doctor and His Team ...

Ravi Doctor, DDS, DABOI, DICOI 1810 S Bowen Road, Suite A • 817-985-4420 • docddsarlington.com 42

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Dr. Melissa Danchak’s passion for providing unparalleled care and service for her patients is on full display with the hundreds of online reviews they have been sharing for years.

Photo: Bruce Maxwell

Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids Winner: Audiologist

n All Star for the sixth straight year, Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids has been providing hearing solutions for North Texas patients for more than three and a half decades. Owner Melissa Danchak began working at Kos/Danchak Audiology in 1997 and purchased the practice five years later. With more than 23 years of experience helping those with hearing challenges in the Arlington and surrounding communities, Dr. Danchak’s passion for providing unparalleled care and service for her patients is on full display with the hundreds of online reviews they have been sharing for years. While her formal education gave her the book knowledge needed to become an audiologist, Dr. Danchak certainly believes that learning is a lifelong process. “Like any small business, we experience change, adversity, success, and a whole host of other ‘stuff’ on a regular basis,” she says. “We try to learn, every day. We evaluate how we help people, and we try to make the hearing health care experience better for the people that we meet with each day. Our goal is for each person to have a better experience with us every time they visit. The fact that

we have thousands of patients that have been trusting us with their hearing needs for 10 and 15 years tells us that we are doing a good job of providing a positive experience for our patients.” Dr. Danchak and her team live by a fairly simple (professional) philosophy: Do our absolute best to serve our patients and fellow employees to the best of our ability; continue to learn and grow, every day, so that we can accomplish that in the best way possible! “We make a difference in people’s lives,” she says. “We see it on their faces when they hear and understand clearly what a loved one is saying. We see it when a spouse or child experiences the feeling of being able to communicate again without raising their voice or repeating themselves. Patients and their families share with us that their investment in better hearing, and us, has changed their lives. It’s not always easy for people to admit that they have hearing loss or that they need hearing aids. We know we make a difference in people’s lives because so many of the new patients we meet each day are referrals from current patients that we have been helping for years! It doesn’t get any better than that.”

Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids 101 W. Randol Mill Road • 817-277-7039 • northtxhearing.com arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: ON THE COVER

Pantego Christian Academy has been serving North Texas-area students for over 58 years. During the past two years, those students and their parents have said “thank you” to the academy’s dedicated staff by voting the school to the Readers’ Choice All Star team in multiple categories.

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

antego Christian Academy has been providing a faith-based education to North Texas-area students for more than half a century. For the second year in a row, former students and parents of current students have honored the school’s devotion to that mission by selecting the academy as an All Star in a pair of categories. Pantego Christian proudly serves more than 500 students who partake in a unique curriculum that focuses on a partnership among the school, parents and the church. The partnership has produced not only a special bond among its stakeholders, but tangible academic results that show the value of a Pantego Christian Academy education long after students have attended the school. PCA students in the top 25 percent of their class have an average ACT score of 29.3, compared to the state average of 20.7. Since 1993, the school has produced 11 National Merit Finalists, 25 National Merit Commended, two National Achievement Scholars and three National Hispanic Recognition Scholars. The Class of 2021 had 35 graduates who earned meritbased scholarships to more than 180 universities and colleges located throughout the country.

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 Pre-K) 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 and mother to three Pantego Christian Academy graduates. “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 44

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

,LLP BUSINESS | TRIAL | LAWYERS

All- Star Winner for Best Litigation/ Business Attorney

301 W. Abram St., Arlington, TX 76010

817.548.1000

w w w. C u r n u t t H a f e r. c o m

ALL STARS: EATS/DRINKS/MERRIMENT

El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill

Dino’s Subs

Winner: Tex-Mex, Restaurant Patio

l Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill offers exquisite cuisine and outstanding service, qualities obviously appreciated by patron/readers, who have voted the restaurant to the All Star team for the fourth straight year. Guests can dine inside or outside 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, which includes numerous amounts of hand-crafted margaritas, over 30 tequilas and 13 beers on tap. 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.”

Winner: Deli / Sandwich Shop or the past six years, 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.

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

Salter Bros. Coffee Roasters

MaryLou’s

Winner: Coffee Shop

aking its debut on our All Star team this year, Salter Bros. Coffee Roasters was founded by Arlington residents John and Cindy Salter, with the goal of bringing fresh roasted specialty coffee to their hometown and sharing their love of a really good cup of coffee. Arlington’s only independent coffee roaster of its kind, Salter Bros. offers a unique and authentic crop-to-cup experience. The coffeehouse features in-house roasting of beans sourced from Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, Tanzania, Ethiopia and others, as well as their signature “Arlington Blend.” Visitors to the coffee shop can enjoy coffee, espresso, latte, cappuccino, flat white, pour over, and nitro cold brew. In addition to the great coffee, they also can purchase Angel biscuits and locally baked goods. Then they can relax and recharge in a quiet space, complete with reclaimed wood tables, a meeting area, and plenty of window seating. Salter Bros. is great for coffee events and classes, and it has a retail area with merchandise and bags of roasted beans.

Salter Bros. Coffee Roasters

400 E. Division St. • 817-200-7790 • salterbroscoffee.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Honorable Mention: Coffee Shop aryLou’s, which is making its third 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. It is also clearly located in the hearts of our readers who love good food and drink, friendly service and a wonderful place to plop down for a little while. 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.

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

ALL STARS: EATS/DRINKS/MERRIMENT

David’s Barbecue

Piccolo Mondo

Winner: BBQ

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 six polls, they’ve tabbed the popular eatery as their favorite local source for BBQ. David’s offers a wide 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!”

Winner: Italian Cuisine

ot that we’re advocating gambling, but one 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 eight Readers’ Choice polls over the years, and this local culinary icon has been named an All Star all eight times. Obviously, owner Antonio Capaccioli knows Italian cuisine – and how to present it to customers in a 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.

David’s Barbecue

Piccolo Mondo

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

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

Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery

Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop

Winner: Bakery

or the sixth sixth year in a row, our sweet-toothed readers have tabbed Sugar Bee Sweets as their favorite place to go to satisfy their yearning for delectable baked goods. Sugar Bee Sweets specializes in cakes and sweets of all kinds, including wedding and party cakes, cupcakes, cake balls, cookies, and more (this is where you lick your lips). The bakery opened in 2010, and since then it has won more than four dozen awards, and its sweet desserts have been featured in magazines and on television programs, including the popular series “Cake Hunters.” Open Tuesday-Saturday, Sugar Bee Sweets serves up a rotating menu of pastries and sweets (each week’s flavors are posted on social media), and they offer a full coffee and tea bar, as well as lunch right under the same roof at The Hive Daytime Eatery (Honorable Mention for Best Deli/Sandwich Shop)!

Honorable Mention: Bakery

or the second consecutive year, Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop has touched our readers’ hearts – OK, more accurately, their tummies – and earned All Star status as one of their favorite bakeries. And with just cause. The bakery simply has elevated pie-making into a vertitable art form. It offers daily flavors such as Southern Custard, Granny’s Apple, Chocolate Cream, Key Lime, Peanut Butter Cream, I-40 (pecans, chocolate chips and a sprinkle of toasted coconut), Coconut Cream, Chewy Chocolate Chip and Nanny’s Pecan (toasted pecans and gooey filling enveloped in our buttery 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.

Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery

Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop

201 N. East St. • 817-903-8661 • sugarbeesweets.com

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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

VOTED BEST FURNITURE STORE

Thank You! 451 N US HWY 287 | 682-222-1312

OPEN MONDAY-SUNDAY FOR YOUR SHOPPING CONVENIENCE

ALL STARS: EATS/DRINKS/MERRIMENT

Mercury Chophouse

Poured

Winner: Steakhouse, Wine Bar

or the fourth consecutive year, Mercury Chophouse Arlington has earned a spot on our All Star team, which is a rather 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 a couple of years ago, 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 Chophouse Calamari and seared ahi tuna to main courses that include the likes of lobster and cheese ravioli, chicken grilled pasta and 6-ounce filet mignon. Each entree can be complemented with shareable side dishes such as saltcrusted baked potato, corn risotto, burgundy mushrooms, aioli 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 Cacharel 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.”

Honorable Mention: Wine Bar irst-time All Star Poured opened in 2014 in Mansfield as an extension of the living room where you can come on a quiet date for a glass of wine, enjoy a night out with the gang, or have a party that will keep them talking for months. The goal of the management team at Poured is to educate customers about wine and beer and elevate their palates to enjoy a wide variety of wines from different grapes and appellations. There are so many things to learn about wine, and although they’ve learned a lot, they learn along with you. Poured also carries craft beers from local breweries as well as other microbreweries from around the country. Specifically, the drink menu features an array of wines (Bubbles, White & Rosé and Red) – and by an array, we’re talking about more than three dozen varieties. Then there are some two dozen beers from notable breweries, as well as culinary options that include flavorful cheese, dips, hummus, meatballs, breads and more.

Poured 1601 E. Debbie Lane, Suite 1105, Mansfield • 817-453-7919 • pouredtx.com

Candlelite Inn

Honorable Mention: Steakhouse

consistent All Star, Candlelight Inn not only has a stellar reputation with local patrons; it has a storied history. The restaurant was founded in 1957 and was resurrected in 2014 in the original location on Division Street. In the re-boot, the booths were redone, along with the dimmed lighting, the red and white checkered tablecloths, candles (now LED), the juke boxes, and the same menu that appeared in the early days. There are many great improvements in the restrooms, kitchen, and entry way. There is now a bar, a banquet room, and a private dining room that can be reserved for special occasions. The new banquet room has room dividers so that there can be several private get-togethers at the same time. The banquet room can seat around 50 comfortably, and the private dining room is by reservation only and can hold six nicely. Candlelite Inn now also takes online orders. Oh, yeah ... There’s also some great food like “back in the day.”

Mercury Chophouse Arlington

Candlelite Inn

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

1202 E. Division St. • 817-275-9613 • candleliteinnarlington.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

ALL STARS: EATS/DRINKS/MERRIMENT

Texas Live!

No Frills Grill & Sports Bar

Winner: Sports Bar HM: Place for Live Music iven the buzz that preceded the arrival of Texas Live! – and, the millions of its visitors who have labeled it “the go to place for a good time in Arlington” since it opened in 2018, it’s no surprise that our readers/voters made the entertainment hub an All Star for 2021. What’s not to like? On practically any given moment of any given day, you can eat/drink/be merry at the likes of Arlington Backyard, Choctaw Lounge, Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint, Lockhart Smokehouse, Miller Tavern & Beer Garden, PBR Texas, Pudge’s Pizza, Rangers Republic, Sports & Social Arlington, Troy’s and Revolver Brewhouse. Every week you can take in a live show featuring a favorite artist or band at a number of the aforementioned venues, or you can enjoy the company of friends wearing the same-colored jersey you’re wearing while being thoroughly entertained by the sports on televisions at many of the others. The bottom line: Texas Live! earns the exclamation point at the end of its name. Indeed, our readers think so.

Honorable Mention: Sports Bar

aking its All Star debut, No Frills Grill & Sports Bar is exactly what a sports bar should be. The popular eatery offers sports action on wall-to-wall TVs that carry the NFL Sunday Ticket, NBA League Pass, ESPN Game Plan, NHL Center Ice, and MLB Extra Innings to ensure that you won’t miss any of the action. No Frills Grill is a great place to bring your team after the game because the dining room was designed with large parties in mind. The staff provides a comfortable atmosphere for families with inexpensive kids’ meals and spacious game rooms featuring pool tables and the latest video games. Then there is one of the more diverse menus you will find. With American Pub food to Tex–Mex and many Seafood entrees, you can always discover something new to eat. This eatery is definitely more than burgers and wings with great chicken sandwiches, light and tasty salads, and an array of tasty appetizers – plus a full range of cocktails, a diverse craft beer menu and great prices.

No Frills Grill & Sports Bar

Texas Live!

4914 Little Road • 817-478-1766 • 2851 Matlock Road, Mansfield • 817-473-6699 Other locations are in Burleson, Fort Worth and Keller • nofrillsarlington.com

1650 E. Randol Mill Road • 817-852-6688 • texas-live.com

Mac’s Bar & Grill

Prince Lebanese Grill

Winner: Seafood Honorable Mention: Happy Hour or more than three decades, the team at Mac’s Bar & Grill has provided great experiences for Arlington area diners. Once again, that dedication has been honored with the popular restaurant being voted to the Readers’ Choice All Star team – in two categories, no less. Food prepared by the team ranges from the familiar to the unexpected with fresh seafood, steaks, prime rib and seasonally created specials. We proudly offer slow-roasted prime rib, fresh fish selections, and our Signature Mac’s Salad. We partner with local purveyors and individuals enabling us to feature specials that are seasonal and most often locally sourced from our surrounding area. Our bar features classic cocktails, specialty cocktails, over 25 single malt scotches and an exceptional bourbon list. Our wine list features bottles primarily from North & South America, and we currently have over 10 wines available by the glass.

Winner: International Cuisine

rince Lebanese Grill earned its fourth straight readers’ choice All Star honor 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. That’s likely because of the family atmosphere at the heart of the eatery. Patriarch Francis Kobty, who recently passed, started the restaurant; his son Aziz became the manager after graduating from college and handles marketing, and daughter Elizabeth heads day-to-day operations. Completing the team is mother Amira, who makes sure everyone involved with Prince Lebanese Grill 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.”

Mac’s Bar & Grill

Prince Lebanese Grill

6077 W. Interstate 20 • 817-572-0541 • macsteak.com

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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

DALLAS LOCATION 4300 N. Central Expressway, Suite 110 Dallas, Texas 75206 972.884.5606 FORT WORTH LOCATION 800 Eighth Avenue, Suite 632 Fort Worth, Texas 76104 817.335.6336

ARLINGTON LOCATION 409 Central Park Drive Arlington, Texas 76014 817.261.9191 MANSFIELD LOCATION 221 Regency Parkway, Suite 111 Mansseld, Texas 76063 817.261.9191

DALLAS CHARLTON LOCATION 3430 W. Wheatland Road, Suite 209 Dallas, Texas 75237 972.780.1496

ALL STARS: EATS/DRINKS/MERRIMENT ... HOME LIFE

J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill

Worthington National Bank

Honorable Mention: Place for Lunch

or more than 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 keep selecting it as an All Star. 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.

Winner: Local Bank HM: Bank, Financial Services

orthington National Bank has been named an All Star for the fifth time. 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.

J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill

Worthington National Bank

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

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

Frost Bank

Susser Bank

Winner: Bank HM: Bank-Customer Service or the past six years, Frost Bank has earned our readers’ collective nod as an Arlington Area All Star. 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 101 E. Abram St., Ste 160 • 3801 Matlock Road • 1881 Ballpark Way • 5500 W. Arkansas Lane frostbank.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Winner: Bank-Customer Service HM: Local Bank t Susser Bank, our reputation is everything. That is because we aim to be known for serving our clients and community with unwavering excellence. We are committed to exceeding clients’ expectations at every turn – with responsiveness, technologydriven solutions, personalized support, and an intent on growing long-term relationships. Arlington: Thank you for trusting us with your business. We take extraordinary pride in serving you today and for many generations to come and are honored to be named an All Star in Customer Service. To learn more about Susser Bank (formerly Affiliated Bank), visit SusserBank.com.

Susser Bank 2326 W. Pleasant Ridge Road • (817) 592-6191 • SusserBank.com Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #402132

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Greater Texas Credit Union Winner (tie): Credit Union

Texas Trust Credit Union Winner (tie): Credit Union

exas Trust Credit Union has become a staple of our annual readers’ choice poll. This is the sixth consecutive year the company has been selected as an All Star. 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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

reater Texas Credit Union is proud and honored to be making its debut on the readers’ choice All Star team this year! At Greater Texas Credit Union, we strive to be the best banking experience ever by meeting our member’s needs and helping them accomplish their financial goals. Whether it’s something as simple as taking advantage of our free checking accounts or applying for a credit card or auto loan, we’re here to help! At Greater Texas, we offer an array of financial services to our members, including student checking, essential checking, business checking, and our Golden Star Checking Club (recommended for members 55 and older). You can also find a full range of loan options to help you address many personal or business needs. Be in control of your financial future with services such as our Greater Texas financial solutions, credit building programs, ID shield and more. Join us and experience the credit union difference!

Greater Texas Credit Union 1425 N. Center St. • 800-749-9732 • gtfcu.org/locations/arlington

Old Republic Title Insurance Co.

Honorable Mention: Title Company

four-time All Star, Old Republic 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 Title Insurance Co. 1241 W. Green Oaks Blvd., Suite 101 • 817-457-3930 1405 N. Hwy. 287, Mansfield • 817-453-8104 oldrepublictitle.com

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

RJ Construction

Winner: Backyard Remodeler, Remodeler, Roofing (tie)

F Pinnacle Bank

Honorable Mention: Local Bank

ack-to-back 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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

ive-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 – and now, in addition to the Arlington locale, he has offices in Kansas City and Greenville, S.C. Jordan, who started as a roofer to make ends meet in high school, now not only roofs, but builds, remodels, plumbs, remodels backyards 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 services to meet any need that may arise, and to become your contractor of choice for all of your homeowner needs.” Robert Jordan The yearning to do 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 has 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 2020, RJ Construction was named TOP 100 Roofing Companies in the country by Roofing Contractor Magazine. “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.”

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

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

D & L Pools

Frazier Roofs & Gutters

Winner: Pool Builder/Renovation HM: Pool Service five-time Arlington Today Readers’ Choice All Star, D & L Pools is a family owned and operated business that Daren and Lisa Fitzgerald have crafted into one of the more successful pool maintenance companies in the North Texas region. The popular company specializes in swimming pool service, resurfacing, repairs and supplies. D & L Pools offers excellent customer service, routine weekly maintenance, real estate inspections, quality products, equipment repairs and replacements – and, as our readers noted with their vote, it is your go-to source for remodels. In addition to maintenance work, D & L Pools offers products such as Pentair, Polaris, Hayward, Pebble Sheen and many more that will help you create the pool of your dreams. “Our mission is providing our customers with 100-percent crystal clear quality and services,” says Daren.

Winner (tie): Roofing

aking a second consecutive trip to the winners’ circle, Frazier Roofs & Gutters and owner Rich Frazier have been fixtures in the local 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.”

D & L Pools

Frazier Roofs & Gutters

817-917-0729 • facebook.com/D-L-Pools-346854265331283/?ref=page_internal

208 Willis Ave. • 817-277-3131 • frazierservices.com

Baldi Gardens

Tom’s Plumbing, Inc.

Winner: Landscaper HM: Backyard Remodeler

ith decades of experience in garden design and planting techniques, three-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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Winner: Plumbing Company

om’s Plumbing, Inc., is a three-time 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.”

Tom’s Plumbing, Inc. 1232 Colorado Lane, Suite 103 • 817-460-3221 • tomsplumbinginc.com

Venkat VenkatRapuri, Rapuri,M.D. M.D.

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ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Designs by Lisa

Mansfield Custom Homes

Winner: Home Builder

Winner: Interior Designer

or the 5th year in a row, Lisa Fitzgerald and her company, Designs by Lisa, have found themselves in the All Star winners’ circle. Over the course of 13 years, Designs by Lisa has evolved into a fullservice home and commercial interior design company. Lisa has partnered with custom home builders by decorating model homes, staging and providing new home buyers decorating style options and furnishings in modern, contemporary and transitional styles. Unique Exposure Photography Lisa’s keen atttention to detail provides clients with interior designs to fit their lifestyles and optimize the style and beauty of their homes. From individual room design projects, holiday decorating, to full home design transformations, Lisa has focused on designing for comfort and designing for style! “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. Ellman Photography

Unique Exposure Photography

ansfield Custom Homes proudly notes that it “builds dreams from the ground up.” Given that this is the company’s sixth consecutive appearance on our All Star team, the custom home company obviously also meets its customers’ expectations in a big way. “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.

Designs by Lisa

Mansfield Custom Homes

817-235-7077 • facebook.com/Designs-By-Lisa-192547380953856/

1016 S. 2nd Ave., Mansfield, TX 76063 • 682-518-1158 • mchtexas.com

Photos: Unique Exposure Photography and Ellman Photography

Molly Davis Design

SWBC Mortgage

Honorable Mention: Interior Designer aking the Readers’ Choice All Star team for the third consecutive 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 11 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, makes 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.

Molly Davis Design 682-429-7050

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Winner: Mortgage Company

fixture on our annual All Star roster, the team at the Arlington branch of SWBC Mortgage prides itself on providing a rewarding homebuying experience. Whether building, purchasing, or refinancing, they can help borrowers find the right loan program for their unique needs. Mary Dietz, Branch Manager, brings more than four decades of mortgage experience to SWBC Mortgage. She is joined by Loan Officers Paul Beaney and Aaron Spaight and Support Staff Lacreta Beaney, Andrew Dietz and David Tarr. The entire SWBC Mortgage team is dedicated to 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. “We pledge to continue to provide the ‘happiest way home’ for all of our clients across Texas and the country,” Dietz says.

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

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

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Curnutt & Hafer

Winner: Attorney-Litigation/Business Honorable Mention: Attorney, Attorney-Real Estate

hroughout two-decades-plus of serving local, national and international clients, the All Star law firm of Curnutt & Hafer has been hailed for its professionalism, dedication to excellence and unparalleled servant leadership. Kelly Curnutt and Doug Hafer founded the firm in 2000, establishing the practice’s future on a foundation emphasizing personal service inside and outside the courtroom, valuing their clients and employees in a very authentic way and focusing on doing the right things. Curnutt & Hafer attorneys routinely exit victorious in cases involving business litigation, family law, inheritance disputes, insurance coverage and bad faith, oil and gas, and injury and death, to name a few practice areas. In the process, the practice founders have been recognized multiple years in Texas Monthly’s “Texas Super Lawyers” list and Fort Worth Magazine’s “Top Attorneys” list. The firm is designated AV-rated by Martindale Hubble, the highest ethical and legal ability ranking available, and it has been recognized as a “Go-To” firm by Devon Energy in Corporate Counsel Magazine’s listing from inhouse law departments at the Top 500 Companies. But where Curnutt & Hafer and their stellar team especially set themselves apart is in community involvement that stretches throughout North Texas and beyond. Curnutt served as the interim President and CEO of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, president of Arlington Sunrise Rotary Club, of Young Men for Arlington and of Phi Delta Theta Arlington Alumni Club, and he has been on the board of directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Texas. Hafer is President of Catholic Scripture Study Inc, a bible study program taught in hundreds of locations in the U.S. and abroad. He is the the Current Board Chairman at Shady Valley Country Club. Along with Curnutt, he has been instrumental in guiding the firm’s support of the community via a variety of avenues, including the Arlington ISD Education Foundation, the Salvation Army, the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, the Arlington Bar Association, Levitt Pavilion Arlington, Young Life Arlington, the Arlington Sunrise Rotary Club, and Mission Arlington.

Stephanie A. Foster Winner: Attorney-Divorce

tephanie Foster has been named an All Star for the fourth consecutive year, 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 30 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

our-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.”

Curnutt & Hafer

Karen Schroeder

301 W. Abram St. • 817-548-1000 • curnutthafer.com

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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Jim Ross -Jim Ross Law Group Winner: Attorney, Attorney-Criminal Defense HM: Attorney-Divorce, Attorney-Elder Law, Attorney-Litigation/Business

im Ross, founder of the acclaimed firm, Jim Ross Law Group, PC – and Arlington’s newly elected Mayor – has been named an All Star attorney for the sixth 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.”

Norred Law, PLLC Winner: Attorney-Patents

orred Law, PLLC, a premier boutique law firm located next to the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, is making its second appearance on our All Star team, but the firm has long had a stellar reputation for “doing the hard things.” Norred Law is a full-service law firm for intellectual property, bankruptcy, and litigation needs, and its network of clients scales the globe. For those who reside in and around Arlington and the Dallas-Fort Worth area, we provide legal services in a personal manner, typically regarding litigation and bankruptcy matters – but you can always call us with your question and we will seek to help you or refer you to other qualified attorneys. The team features attorneys Warren V. Norred, C. Chad Lampe, Clayton L. Everett, Kim Roberts and Orsen E. Paxton. Collectively, they represent a go-to resource for prospective clients facing various legal challenges. Whether you have a new idea that needs patent protection, are in financial trouble and need relief that only bankruptcy can provide, or find yourself in need of legal representation in court, Norred Law will work hard to help you achieve your goals. The firm represents individuals, and small to mid-size businesses in state and federal litigation, intellectual property, bankruptcy, probate and estates, business formations and contract matters. They are known for resolving complicated issues for clients, based on the firm’s three primary objectives: We work to address our clients’ needs. Clients often approach us with difficult situations that suggest a law suit or bankruptcy, but are surprised when we devise an out-of-thebox resolution avoiding court. We always try to maintain communications. To ensure that clients are not surprised, we always use a written contract and communications. As goals change, we try to keep a summary of those discussions in writing so clients are kept abreast of their case’s status and surprises are minimized. We serve our community. Norred Law is continuously involved in issues that are otherwise inadequately addressed. We refer to these as our “white hat law” cases because the answer to the issue is obvious and we take such cases because we believe they will have an impact on our society.

Jim Ross Law Group

Norred Law, PLLC

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

515 E. Border St. • 817-500-9433 • norredlaw.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Jack D Webb, CRPC®

EDS-5422F-A

Financial Advisor

edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

1521 N Cooper St Suite 130 Arlington, TX 76011-5534 817-460-5311

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Roger ‘Rocky’ Walton

Donna J. Smiedt

Winner: Attorney-Personal Injury

n All Star for the third time, “Rocky” Walton, founder of the Law Firm of Roger “Rocky” Walton, has been serving the Arlington community since 1975. 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, something that proved pivitol during the pandemic – and beyond. “Our advanced technology systems allowed us to easily work hard for our clients independently at home during the health crisis,” Walton says. “Even during a health crisis, we were able to negotiate multi-million dollars worth of settlements.” Rocky proudly notes that clients are able to contact the firm 24/7 by telephone, text message and e-mail. “We offer Zoom meetings, telephone conferences and in-person meetings to make all potential clients and clients feel comfortable, he says. “We also work around our clients’ schedule and are available after business hours as needed.”

The Law Firm of Roger “Rocky” Walton, P.C. 2310 W. Interstate 20, Suite 200 • 817-429-4299 • rockywaltoninjurylawyers.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Winner: Attorney-Family Law

our-time All Star Donna J. Smiedt, founder of The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt, has earned a stellar reputation for her dedication to serving her clients during challenging times. Smiedt is a Board Certified Family Law Attorney - Texas Board of Legal Specialization who has received extensive training – and earned many honors for her work – in this area. Her legal team also features attorney Desaray R. Muma, who, with Smiedt, provides counsel in all types of family law cases, including divorce, child custody disputes, adoptions, Child Protective Services litigation, child support issues, collaborative divorce, premarital agreements, spousal support, visitation rights, and grandparents’ rights. “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.”

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

Harris Cook, LLP

Winner: Attorney-Employment, Attorney-Real Estate HM: Attorney-Family Law

six-time All Star, Harris Cook, LLP, has built a reputation for professionalism and effectiveness in a wide range of legal matters. The practice features a highly-skilled team composed of David L. Cook, Patrick L. Dooley, Paul J. Johnson, Larry L. Fowler, Jr., Cynthia L. Hill, Lin Morrisett, Marc A. Stach, Arin K. Schall, Gabriella C. Garcia 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, highlevel legal services to its existing clients while creating opportunities for future growth in the areas of Business, Real Estate, Employment, Public Utilities, Family Law, Probate & Guardianship and Estate Planning. 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.

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

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arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

PSK

Parker & Richardson

Winner (tie): CPA / Tax Prep n All Star for the fourth consecutive year, 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.

Winner (tie): CPA / Tax Prep

ere’s an achievement worth noting: The Mansfield-based Certified Public Accountants at Parker & Richardson have been voted to our All Star team in each of the past seven years. Company founder John Parker says the key to that success 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

Jack D. Webb Edward Jones Winner: Financial Services

ack D. Webb, Financial Advisor CRPC ®, is making his All Star debut this year. Our readers seemed to appreciate how Webb will go the extra mile to get to know them and their particular financial /life situations while trying to help them prosper. “I believe it is important to invest time to understand what you are working toward before you invest your money,” Webb says. “Working closely with you and your CPA, attorney and other professionals, I can help determine the most appropriate financial strategy for you and your family.” Originally from Oklahoma, he and his family moved to the Dallas/ Fort Worth area in the summer of 1999. Among the many jobs he has embraced over the years, he has swept floors, been an Army missile gunner and been a breakfast cook. Bottom line: He knows what it takes to be in a position to save – you first have to earn. As a part of the community, Webb has served as leader in the local scouting organization, a director on his H.O.A. board and a member of the Chamber of Commerce’s Corporate Leadership Council. He is currently serving on the board for Leadership Arlington.

PSK

Jack D. Webb, Edward Jones

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

1521 N. Cooper St., Suite 130 • 817-460-5311 • edwardjones.com/jack-webb

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Dine-In & Carry-out

The Best Tex-Mex Between Dallas and Fort Worth!

All Star Tex-Mex 2408 W. Abram St. • Arlington, Tx 76013 • 817.276.8160 • elgabachogrill@gmail.com arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Don Davis Auto Group Winner: Auto Dealer

ou can certainly say the Don Davis Auto Group is “driven” to success – since we added the Auto Dealer category to our All Star list seven years ago, the venerable company has found itself in the winners’ circle every single time. Don Davis Auto Group has served this community for more than four decades, 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 preowned 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. 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 the second car I’ve purchased from Don Davis Auto Group, and it will not be the last. Don Davis is the only dealership that I have been to that feels like family.” “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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Frank Kent Cadillac Of Arlington Winner: Auto Dealer-Luxury Cars

he team at Frank Kent Cadillac Of Arlington would like to welcome you to our dealership in Arlington, where we’re confident you’ll find the vehicles you’re looking for at a price you can afford. Come and check out our full selection of new Cadillac vehicles, or get a great deal on a reliable pre-owned model. No matter which vehicle you decide on, our professional finance team will help you get settled with a competitive financing or lease plan. When you’re looking for quality auto maintenance and repairs near Arlington, you can always count on the professional technicians in our Cadillac service department as well, where we handle everything from oil changes and filter replacements to powertrain and drivetrain repairs. Schedule an appointment today, or purchase parts from us to handle maintenance and repairs on your own. Lots of folks in Arlington count on the high-quality vehicles and services found at Frank Kent Cadillac Of Arlington, and we look forward to living up to our reputation every day.

Frank Kent Cadillac Of Arlington 2001 N. Collins St. • Sales: 877-880-5178; Service: 888-458-3513 • fkcoa.com

The Pampered House

Honorable Mention: Maid/Home Organization

aking its All Star debut, The Pampered House Maid Service started in February of 2001 with the intent of supplementing our income. From cleaning just a few homes each month to cleaning hundreds, we have grown our company into a streamlined service. Most of our business comes from referrals by happy clients who love our service. We not only say, “Thank You” to clients who refer us, but we also reward them with free cleanings. The maids at the Pampered House are bonded and insured for your protection and peace of mind. We know our company’s reputation mostly depends on the skills and attitudes of the maids that work for us. Here at the Pampered House we believe in the WOW! factor. That’s why we are very selective with who cleans for our company. The maids that work for us are trained to have an eye for detail. We have several maids that have been cleaning houses for our company for over nine years and in turn have been cleaning the same clients for that same amount of time. Put our maids to the test, you’ll notice the difference.

The Pampered House 817-633-2235 • thepamperedhouse.net

All Star Winner Gift Shop

Thank You Arlington Today readers for voting, and Thank You to all my clients for making me your All Star Arlington Realtor!!! All Star Winner for Realtor.

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arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Michael Cunningham Ebby Halliday Winner (tie): Real Estate Professional

Ebby Halliday Realtors Winner: Real Estate Company

ast year, multi-time All Star Ebby Halliday Realtors celebrated 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. “As we think about what Ebby Halliday has accomplished, 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 three years 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 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.

onsistently in the All Star winners’ circle, Michael Cunningham is one of the region’s most trusted real estate professionals. Cunningham has more than two decades of experience with Ebby Halliday, making him ideally suited to implement a two-part approach to success: Know the customer and know the market. “With over 22 years of experience 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.” To that end, whether you are a buyer or a seller, Cunningham offers: • Keen insight into your needs and goals • An uncompromising approach and solid work ethic focused on achieving client satisfaction • An experienced, knowledgeable and skilled negotiator, someone who will listen, execute and deliver results.

Michael Cunningham - Ebby Halliday 1204 W. Abram St. • 817-654-8445 • ebby.com/bio/michaelcunningham

Linda Magazzine Ebby Halliday Winner (tie): Real Estate Professional

ronically, perennial All Star Linda Magazzine didn’t set out to become a successful and award-winning real estate professional, but her previous career kept pointing her in that direction. She was a field editor for Better Homes and Garden Magazine for the Texas Region and that is where she found her love of homes and realized she could make a good living doing what she really enjoyed. Magazzine has now been in the real estate industry for four decades, the past 20 years of which have been associated with Ebby Halliday. 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. Magazzine says she is especially proud to conduct business in her home town. “I live in Arlington, I work in Arlington and I believe in my city and community,” she says. “Giving back is very important to me.”

Ebby Halliday Realtors

Linda Magazzine - Ebby Halliday

1204 W. Abram St., Arlington • 817-654-3737. • 817-654-3737 • ebby.com

1204 W. Abram St. • 817-654-8589 • ebby.com/bio/lindamagazzine

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • 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 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Farrell Animal Hospital

Pet Resort in the Gardens

Winner: Veterinarian

t Farrell Animal Hospital, you and your pets are like family. We recognize that technology alone is not enough when your pet has an illness or injury, so we combine the science of veterinary medicine with the art of caring about pets and their owners. At the center of our services, you will find caring doctors and a team of highly trained staff surrounded by stateof-the-art veterinary equipment. From the very first symptom through diagnosis and treatment, Farrell Animal Hospital provides a full range of services for your pet. Over the years, our animal hospital has earned a reputation for excellence. We make it a priority to keep pace with advances in veterinary medicine and are proud to be one of the few hospitals in Tarrant County accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association. The mission of Farrell Animal Hospital is to provide superior medical care for your pet and exceptional customer service for our client. We are committed to strengthening the pet-family bond through compassionate care, preventative medicine, and client educations.

Farrell Animal Hospital 2890 W. Pioneer Pkwy • 817-265-6276 • farrellah.com

W: Pet Boarding, Pet Care/Grooming HM: Pet Training ive-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.”

Pet Resort in the Gardens 2890-A W. Pioneer Pkwy. • 817-635-5510 • petresortinthegardens.com

Three Dog Bakery

Pixee’s Paws Pet Palace

Winner: Pet Specialties

hree Dog Bakery’s trip to the All Star winners’ circle began in 1989, then three dogs, two guys and one $0.59 biscuit cutter created the world’s first bakery for dogs. Its revolutionary idea – 100% natural, wholesome, human-quality ingredients – gave pet owners a new option in healthy feeding. Just like the Arlington location owned by Kim Harmon, the original Three Dog Bakery store was an inviting and exciting place for pets and the people that treasure them. Customers still enjoy the pleasant aroma of freshbaked pastries, treats and food for dogs in a comfortable setting. “We specialize in all-natural, freshbaked dog treats and personalized celebration cakes, as well as premium dog food, toys, collars, and accessories,” Harmon says. “My inspiration for starting this journey are my pups: Max, Cash, Tinkerbell, Beltre, Bunnie and Chuck. We’ve been making tails wag since 1989, and today our mission remains the same – feed the souls of dogs and the people that love them.”

Three Dog Bakery 817 E. Lamar Blvd. • 817-795-3135 • 3300 E. Broad St., Mansfield • 817-592-3531 Coming soon to Fort Worth! • threedogs.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Honorable Mention: Pet Boarding, Pet Care/Grooming aking its debut on our All Star team, Pixee’s Paws Pet Palace offers area pet owners an ideal option for day care, boarding and training – and we treat your pets like royalty. The day care service at Pixee’s Paws features play time and rest time, but cuddle time is always part of your fur baby’s day — and there’s no extra charge for cuddling at Pixee’s! We have fun, safe toys for your pet, and we offer separate space for puppies or a bit more introverted dogs. Our many boarding services are designed to make sure your best pal feels safe, secure, and has a great time. Our staff members are constantly monitoring the safety and overall needs of our overnight guests. We offer complimentary departure bath for stays of five days or longer. Our training services help ensure that Your Best Pal doesn’t pull on the leash, surf your kitchen counters, and greet your friends by jumping all over them. Obedience training can take your relationship to the next level.

Pixee’s Paws Pet Palace 112 W. Randol Mill Rd., Suite. 100 • 682-999-8684 • pixeespawspetpalace.com

All Star Winner Best Realtor

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Wade Family Funeral Home Winner: Customer Service

n All Star each of the past three years, 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.”

Texas Insurance Agency

Winner (tie): Insurance Company HM: Insurance - Home / Auto

s evidenced by its sixth straight 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 better-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.”

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

GEC Insurance Services Winner (tie): Insurance Company

irst-time All Star GEC Insurance Services is an independent insurance agency that offers their clients choices. Why is this important? Because independent insurance agencies, like GEC Insurance, represent a number of different insurance companies, and can compare coverage and prices to find the best possible value for your individual circumstances. As independent agents, we are members of the DFW community, and we’re committed to doing business face-to-face and being your advocate in times of need. We are your consultants, working with you as you determine your needs, and we are value-hunters who look after your pocketbook in finding the best combination of price, coverage, and service. We offer one-stop shopping for a full range of products, including home, renters, auto, business and more, and we can periodically review your coverage to keep up with your changing insurance needs. We are committed to customer satisfaction – it’s the key to our livelihood. We treat you like a person, not a number. We are licensed professionals with strong customer and community ties.

Wade Family Funeral Home

GEC Insurance

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

1006 N. Bowen Road, Suite A • 817-303-1187 • gecinsurance.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Bond Cleaners

Comet Cleaners

Winner (tie): Dry Cleaner

ultiple-time All Star Bond Cleaners has always been a family owned and operated business, serving Arlington-area customers for the past 52 years. In 1969 Jim and Linda Bond opened up the first Bond Cleaners to provide fast, quality dry cleaning and laundry services to Arlington’s citizens. More than five decades later, the business has grown modestly and humbly with the support of the people we consider to be our extended family: our customers and employees. There are now three generations of the Bond family working with the business. We pride ourselves on outstanding customer service and quality work. We have been incredibly lucky to have the same core team of employees for more than 30 years. We currently use one of the most eco-friendly cleaning processes that is safe for both humans and the environment. We want to say thank you to all our customers, whether you have been doing business with us one year or 50 years.

Winner (tie): Dry Cleaner

here are certain “givens” when we have a Readers’ Choice All Star team. One is that 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 six 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, a century later, Comet Cleaners operates more than 160 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

Bond Cleaners 1644 W. Randol Mill Road • 817-277-1049 • 138 S. Bowen Road • 817-277-0121 bondcleaners.com

Primrose Schools

Southern Flair Photography

Winner: Day Care HM: Preschool / Pre-K five-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 timetested 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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Winner: Photographer

ver the past 45 years, Southern Flair Photography has delighted more than 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 isn’t surprising that company owner Dwayne Lee and his daughter Heather would be honored with an All Star award for the fourth consecutive year. Dwayne Lee Dwayne has earned Master of Photography and Photographic Craftsman Degrees from the Professional Photographers of America, and Heather has earned the Photographic Craftsman Degree. Last year, Southern Flair Photography, which is the largest and most experienced professional team of photographers in Arlington, moved 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,” Dwayne 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

All Star Flooring An Abbey Carpet & Floor Showroom. Family owned and operated since 1995. 2800 W. Division Arlington, TX 76012

4325 E. US HWY 377 Granbury, TX 76049

817.461.51.89 M-F 9-6

•

1002 N. Central Expressway #601 Richardson, TX 76080

817.710.8604

Sat 10-4

•

Sun Closed

•

972.521.9700

www.hiltonsflooring.com

Offering: Covid Vaccines, Flu Shots, Telehealth and Sports Physicals

After Hours Available

FAMILY HEALTHCARE All Star Family Physician Practice

A S S O C I AT E S

1300 S. Fielder Rd. Arlington, TX 76013

817-277-2221

1926 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd. Arlington, TX 76017

817-472-5522

3601 Hwy-157N Mansfield, TX 76063

817-473-7962

Visit us at www.fhcatx.com

4100 N. Collins, Suite 200 Arlington, TX 76005

817-860-1309

Dr. An Wong, D.O.

All Star Family Physician

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: HOME LIFE

Viridian

Winner: New Home Development

or the fourth year in a row, the master-planned community mecca Viridian has been named a readers’ choice All Star. But that’s no surprise, when you consider the enticing array of amenities for its residents, the picturesque setting and the vast selection of upscale homes available to its residents. 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 Audubon 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. Two years ago, 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.

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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Green’s Produce & Plants Winner: Garden Center

back-to-back All Star that celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, 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 five 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.

Green’s Produce & Plants

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

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: STORE FRONT

Anything Goes Winner: Gift Shop

Ivan Smith Furniture Winner: Furniture Store

f you’re in the market for furniture – any kind and all kinds of furniture – our readers have a suggestion for you: Check out Ivan Smith Furniture in Mansfield. Conveniently located at 451 N US Hwy 287, Ivan Smith Furniture offers legendary brand names like Mayo, Hooker, Flexsteel, Craftmaster, Bernhardt, Klaussner, Riverside, Stanley, and more - giving you the big city selection while offering hometown service. Our products feature designs and pieces in contemporary styles and textures to add depth and detail to your space. Completely customizable options for upholstered sofas and chairs, power recliners, and sofas are available so that you can special order the piece that you’ve dreamed of enjoying in your home for many years to come. Our furniture and mattress stores are proud to provide all the products to furnish your home from top to bottom. We have living room furniture selections that include love seats, recliners, and complete sofa sets. In terms of our dining room furniture, we sell dining tables and dinette sets as well as stylish home bar furniture. We also have an extensive collection of bedroom furniture for adults and children including durable bed sets and mattresses. In addition to all of this, we also sell office furniture, entertainment centers, elegant home accents, and even appliances! When you visit our store, you can look forward to working with one of our skilled and friendly customer service professionals. All our staff members are knowledgeable about the home furnishing products that we sell, and can answer your questions and offer helpful advice to enhance your furniture shopping experience. Our newest showroom in Mansfield carries the furniture, mattresses and all the accessories you need to turn your house into a dream home – and everything is priced to help you make that happen.

Ivan Smith Furniture 451 U.S. 287 Frontage Road, Mansfield • 682-222-1312 • ivansmith.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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. Nine years later, she’s celebrating her sixth 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.”

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

Troy Vinson Jewelers Winner: Jeweler

multi-time All Star, Troy Vinson Jewelers has been providing jewelry services for North Texans for the past five decades. A family business since 1971, Troy Vinson Jewelers has been dedicated to adhering to a high code of ethics to earn trust and loyalty of each customer. Troy Vinson founded the company with one goal in mind: providing the highest quality of jewelry available all the while keeping prices fair. His passion for excellence has driven us from the beginning, and continues to drive them into the future. They realize that every piece of jewelry is a cherished memory, and strive to make the entire shopping experience feel like you are family. They carry many designer lines and Citizen and Tavannes watches as well. Services offered at Troy Vinson Jewelers include custom design, diamonds, in house repair and laser engraving. We have CAD designers, 3-D printers, Pantograph model making, laser welders, and all of their bench jewelers are Board Certified by Jewelers of America.

Troy Vinson Jewelers 4666 S.W. Loop 820, Fort Worth • 817-377-8555 • 401 E. US 377, Granbury • 817-573-7881 troyvinsonjewelers.com

W E O W E YO U .

Thanks for choosing Frost as the Best Bank in Arlington. Visit us at frostbank.com or call (800) 51-FROST.

MEMBER FDIC

MANSFIELD CUSTOM HOMES

Hayden Dalley, the CEO of Mansfield Custom Homes, was recently awarded national recognition as "Top 100 Leaders in Real Estate and Construction Award" at the WRECONF conference in Las Vegas. All Star Winner Home Builder

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: STORE FRONT

Texas Appliance

Gracie Lane

Winner: Appliance Store

or the second year in a row, Texas Appliance has found the winners’ circle in our Readers’ Choice All Star Team. With roots back to the 1940s, 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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Winner: Boutique, Customer Service Honorable Mention: Gift Shop, Baby/Children’s Boutique or the eighth straight year, Gracie Lane has earned All Star status following tabulation of the results in our annual Readers’ Choice poll – this time in four categories. 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

C & W Antiques Winner: Antiques

Readers’ Choice All Star for the fourth 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 oldworld 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.

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

Honorable Mention Title Company

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: STORE FRONT ... WELLNESS

Hiltons Flooring Winner: Flooring Store

n All Star for the sixth consecutive year, 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.

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

Urban Country Flower Co. Winner: Florist

his is the third 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, orders for which can be made on the website listed below. The stunning arrangements will allow nature’s beauty to inspire your special moment. You can always expect your needs to be treated with all the attention to detail they deserve.

Urban Country Flower Co. 2234 W. Park Row Drive, Suite D, Village Park • 817-323-8109 • urbancountryflowerco.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Dr. Joan Bergstrom Winner: OB / GYN

r. Joan Bergstrom, founder of Women’s Health Services, obviously serves her patients in an exemplary manner – this is the seventh straight year she has been named an 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. Her practice now has six other women physicians serving women patients: Dr. Jessica Brown, Dr. Dawnette Pepper, Dr. Kiran Nangrani, Dr. Sheri Puffer, Dr. Joy Carter and Dr. Maya Kuriakose. 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 more than three decades. 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 two years ago. 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

Welcoming You Like Family 1600 E. RANDOL MILL ROAD ARLINGTON, TX 76011

682-277-4976

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: WELLNESS

Arlington / Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers Winner: Podiatrist

Dr. Alfred DiStefano

Dr. John W. Adams

Dr. Winston M. Chan

Texas Oncology

Winner: Oncologist, Colorectal Surgeon Honorable Mention: Oncologist

ur readers heartily endorse the skill and compassion of physicians at Texas Oncology, which has three doctors earning spots on the 2021 All Star Team. For the seventh straight year, Dr. Alfred DiStefano was voted the area’s top oncologist, and his colleague, Dr. John W. Adams, earned honorable mention in the same category. Meanwhile, Dr. Winston M. Chan was selected the winner in the Colorectal Surgeon category. Dr. DiStefano founded Arlington Cancer Center some 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. Two years ago, Arlington Cancer Center became part of Texas Oncology and is now Texas Oncology-Arlington Cancer Center North. Dr. Adams began working with Dr. DiStefano at Arlington Cancer Center in 1989. He earned his Fellowship in Medical Oncology from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Prior to focusing on oncology, Dr. Adams was Medical Director of Hospice Care, Inc., in Pinellas County, Fla. Dr. Chan joined the Texas Oncology team two years ago after serving as surgeon with the Privia Medical Group in Mansfield. He has Board Certifications in General Surgery and in Colon and Rectal Surgery. The stellar service of these physicians mirrors Texas Oncology’s Mission, which is to help Texans fight cancer. The practice delivers high-quality, high-touch care to help cancer patients achieve “More breakthroughs. More victories.”® in their fight against cancer. Texas Oncology is an independent, physician-led practice delivering leading-edge technology and treatment options and conducting innovative research. Founders of the practice pioneered community-based care to enable more cancer patients to receive high-quality care while staying close to the critical support of family and friends.

or the fifth 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. David 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

Resurgence Wellness Winner: Rejuvenative Medicine Clinic

hree-time All Star Resurgence Wellness was founded on the idea of patient empowerment where providers begin a health and wellness journey with you. The Resurgence Wellness team believes in partnership and patient education so that you’re able to make informed decisions every step of the way. Our approach to health and wellness is comprehensive, personalized and proactive. Instead of treating the illness, we believe in treating the whole patient. We want to get to know you, your health history, your family’s health history and discuss your own health and wellness goals. Whether it’s better management of a chronic health condition, losing weight, eliminating chronic pain, looking and feeling younger or just feeling healthier overall, our medical professionals will create a personalized treatment plan just for you. Our experienced medical professionals are well versed in a wide variety of treatments and services. Our testing, diagnostics, services and treatments range from traditional medical options to natural/holistic yet cutting-edge solutions that aren’t yet widely talked about. Our goal is for each of our clients to own their own health and own the day … EVERY DAY.

Texas Oncology-Arlington Cancer Center North

Resurgence Wellness

906 W. Randol Mill Road, Suite 200. • 817-261-4906 • texasoncology.com

3025 Matlock Road • 833-696-2329 • resurgencewellness.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Thank you

for making us the

Franchise owner, Wendy Danner

Best!

Best Massage

*Offer valid for first-time guests only. Session times included a total of 10 minutes of time for consultation and dressing, which occurs pre-and post-service. Additional taxes and fees may apply. prices subject to change. Rates and services may vary by franchised location and session. Not all Massage Envy locations offer all services. For a specific list of services available or additional information about joining as a member, check with the specific location or see MassageEnvy.com. Each location is independently owned and operated. ©2021 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC. ME5769

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: WELLNESS

Dr. Moody Alexander Winner: Orthodontist

s has been the case since we added “Orthodontist” to our annual poll, Dr. Moody Alexander is the 2021 top choice among our readers. For the record, this is the seventh time they have placed him and his staff among their favorites in the Arlington/ Mansfield / Grand Prairie 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-plus, Drs Alexander Orthodontics has focused on providing orthodontic treatment for children and adults, many of whom have become like family to Dr. Alexander and Photo: www.kristinjphotography.com his staff. “We work hard to provide a 5-star service 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.” In 2019, Dr. Alexander was presented the Humanitarian Award by the American Association of Orthodontists.

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

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Dr. Jennifer P. Ketchel Arlington Pediatric Dentistry Winner: Pediatric Dentist

multi-time All Star, Dr. Jennifer P. Ketchel is a board certified pediatric dentist and a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Her practice, Arlington Pediatric Dentistry, takes great pride in offering comprehensive – and compassionate – dental health care for its young patients. We provide our patients a friendly and bright atmosphere – specially designed and decorated to help your kids feel comfortable during their visit. We are confident that your children will thoroughly enjoy their visit while they receive treatment from our wonderful staff. Our energetic team is trained for working with children, and our office is designed exclusively for children. Our office is equipped with several televisions throughout the treatment areas with child-friendly movies playing. We also have ipads, video games, books and stuffed animals to make your child feel right at home.

Arlington Pediatric Dentistry 7410 S. Cooper St. • 817-465-0044 • arlingtonkidsdentist.com

Family HealthCare Associates Winner: Family Physician Practice

ulti-time All Star Family HealthCare Associates scored big with our readers once more, as the practice was tabbed the favorite in this category, and one of its physicians, Dr. An Bui Wong, was voted the Family Physician winner. FHCA is a physician-owned organization that has served the healthcare needs of the Arlington/Mansfield area for over 60 years. Its commitment to delivering quality care has allowed the practice to grow from two physicians in 1958 to 30 physicians in four Arlington/Mansfield locations today. Healthcare services include onsite diagnostic testing, online registration, text reminders and a patient portal for enhanced communication between you and your physician. FHCA’s After Hours Care Clinic is the go-to place in the community for treatment of minor illnesses and injuries. The physicians at Family HealthCare Associates have been recognized by multiple health organizations for achieving their highest quality standards. The practice has been recognized as a Patient Centered Medical Home by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA).

Family HealthCare Associates 1300 S. Fielder Road • 817-277-2221 • 1926 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-472-5522 3601 N. Hwy-157, Mansfield • 817-473-7962 • 4100 N. Collins, Suite 200 • 817-860-1309 • fhcatx.com

Save the Date! Saturday, September 25, 2021 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Ventana Grille

All proceeds will benefit the deserving families hit hard by circumstances beyond their control who come to HIM Center for healthy groceries.

GET TICKETS: himcenter.org/prom-ticket 817-453-FOOD

Food Drink 80s Music Dancing We’re gonna party like it’s 1985! Adults Only Event

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: WELLNESS

Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers Winner: Weight Loss Program

four-time Readers’ Choice All Star, Diet Solution Weight Loss Centers were created by Jennifer McMahon 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 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 staff 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. There are no prepackaged foods to worry about, and we even encourage you to eat out! 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. 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 Arlington: 2542 W. Pioneer Pkwy. • 817-277-3438 Mansfield: 99 Regency Pkwy., Suite 107 • 817-453-3438 • dietsolutioncenters.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Central Park ENT

Winner: Ear / Nose / Throat HM: Audiologist

or the fourth consecutive year, Central Park ENT has been chosen to the All Star team by our readers. 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. Rene Pena, Stuart Thomas, Tyler Scoresby, Dana Gibbs and Chris Lee 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.

Central Park Ear, Nose and Throat Arlington: 409 Central Park Drive • Mansfield: 221 Regency Pkwy., Suite 111 817-261-9191 • centralparkent.net

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: WELLNESS

Dr. Renju Raj is part of the team of fertility specialists at IVFMD.

IVFMD

Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital

Winner: Fertility Specialist ulti-time All Star IVFMD is a state-of-the-art fertility center in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area that offers basic and breakthrough diagnostic and treatment choices to unlock your fertility potential. IVFMD, located at 600 W. Mayfield Road in Arlington, provides IVF that is both effective and affordable. Established in 1997, IVFMD is one of the few fertility centers in Dallas Fort Worth that can claim 20 years of experience with consistently high IVF pregnancy rates year after year – at a reasonable price. “We believe in making leading-edge fertility technologies accessible to as many families as possible by reducing the financial stress during the journey toward parenthood,” says Dr. Renju Raj, one of three fertility specialists and gynecologists at the practice, along with Dr. Beverly Reed and Dr. Sy Le. “Our Global IVF Fee is one of the most affordable in the country. We are also transparent in treatment cost. You can find clear information about IVF cost on our website. We are also an in-network IVF facility for Aetna, Cigna and United Healthcare. Covered patients do not have to pay out-of-network fees when they use our centers.” IVFMD offers a full range of fertility testing and stateof-the-art treatments, including ovarian reserve and male testing, HSG; minimally invasive reproductive surgery and tubal reversal; IVF, ICSI, PGT/PGD, egg cryopreservation; Invocell IVF, Mini IVF; and donor egg and surrogacy cycles. Dr. Raj says the practice’s unparalleled personal care sets IVFMD apart: “We are committed to making you a mom.”

IVFMD 600 W. Mayfield Road • 817-701-1290 • ivfmd.net

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Winner: Hospital-Patient Care, Emergency Room Honorable Mention: Orthopedic Hospital ere’s an All Star stat worth sharing: Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital has earned Readers’ Choice All Star awards in each of the polls we’ve published. Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital has a rich history in North Texas. As a Level IV Trauma Center, Cycle III Chest Pain Center and Primary Stoke Center, they offer the communities of Arlington, Kennedale, Pantego, Mansfield and Grand Prairie advanced life-saving care close to home. With advanced medical treatments and an experienced staff that provides compassionate care, their mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities it serves. The hospital is a 369-bed acute-care hospital offering a wide-range of health care services including back and spine, behavioral health, breast care, cancer care, diabetes care, digestive health services, emergency care, ENT, heart and vascular care, infectious disease, kidney health, neurosciences and stroke care, orthopedics, sports medicine, rehabilitation services, urology, women and infants care and wound care. Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital and the physicians on its medical staff are committed to your wellbeing and the health and wellness of your family.

Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital 800 W. Randol Mill Road • 817-960-6100 • texashealth.org/arlington

Proudly serving the Arlington area for over 28 years.

Outdoor Living

The BEST neighborhood sports bar with fun AND games Plus, ALL Sports…ALL the time.

Dine in or Take Out. .

Honorable Mention Sports Bar

4914 Little Road, Arlington, TX 76017 Phone. 817-478-1766

2851 Matlock Road Suite 422, Mansfield, TX 76063 Phone. 817-473-6699

1550 Eastchase Pkwy,Suite 1200, 801 S. Main, Suite 109, Keller, TX 76248 Arlington, TX 76017 Phone. 817-741-6344 Phone. 817-274-5433

12846 South Fwy, Burleson, TX 76028 Phone. 817-447-7119

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: WELLNESS

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center Winner: Hospital

ethodist Mansfield Medical Center, a 262-bed acute care hospital, has been proud to serve the community for more than 14 years while it continues to expand to meet patients’ needs. Here are just a few of the hospital’s recent enhancements. Methodist Mansfield has achieved exceptional Hospital Safety Scores from The Leapfrog Group®, an independent watchdog organization for healthcare consumers. The hospital received the organization’s highest score, an A, for the 15th time for achieving the highest national standards in patient safety. The hospital achieved Magnet® recognition, the highest distinction bestowed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to healthcare organizations for nursing excellence and high-quality patient care. The hospital is also designated a Level III Trauma Center and Level II Neonatal Facility. This year the hospital joined Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing and the city of Mansfield to bring the first Texas Tech University System satellite campus to Tarrant County. Methodist Mansfield is also home to The Breast Center, which offers a beautiful, tranquil office with a diagnostic radiology specialist, advanced breast imaging technology services, women’s health services, bone density scans, and pelvic health therapy — all under one roof. To enhance care for our tiniest patients, a new $8.7 million neonatal intensive care unit provides a 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, Texas Oncology – Methodist Cancer Center and an ambulatory surgical center. “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 health and quality of life.”

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center 2700 E. Broad St., Mansfield • 682-242-2000 • methodisthealthsystem.org/ methodist-mansfield-medical-center

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital–Arlington Winner: Orthopedic Care

Conquer chronic pain with Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital

vercoming chronic neck, back or joint pain can bring incredible improvement to your quality of life – but not if you put off dealing with it. Some have endured the pain for so long that they have forgotten what “normal” feels like. Does this sound familiar? If so, you (or a loved one’s) relief begins with having a plan and then taking action. Your plan begins with a place. Arlington is fortunate to have one of the nation’s top-rated facilities for treating and solving the issues that cause these types of pain. Helping people “get back to normal” is Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington’s reason for being. This unique, industry-leading specialty hospital centers on comprehensive outpatient and inpatient treatment and provides orthopedic surgery, spine treatment, joint replacement, diagnostic imaging, pain management, sports medicine and physical therapy and rehabilitation. This is Dallas-Fort Worth’s only hospital that concentrates strictly on providing orthopedic and spine care. This allows Baylor Scott & White Arlington to provide a safe, serene and focused health care environment to reduce the tension or apprehension patients might feel about going to a hospital. Combining exceptional care with personal attention and compassion is the hospital’s priority, whether treating a simple neck strain or a complex joint surgery. The boutiquestyle facility offers an exceptional staff and 10 operating rooms, complete diagnostic imaging capabilities, and a Pain Management Center. The hospital also has a full-service ER open 24/7 making it a great alternative for emergency care. When you are ready to get back to getting around, Baylor Scott & White Arlington is ready, too. Visit www.bswarlington.com for a full list of physicians, services and to schedule an appointment. Hours of Operation: 24 hours, 7 days a week

Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital-Arlington 707 Highlander Blvd. • 855-41-ORTHO • Fax: 817-583-7107 • bswarlington.com

Make Any Day A Special Occasion inviting atmosphere | casual ﬁne dining | exceptional service

Thank you

Arlington Today readers!

Winner All Star Best Steak

Winner All Star Happy Hour

Winner All Star Best Sea Food

Honorable Mention Best Happy Hour

Mac’s Bar & Grill 6077 West I-20 | Arlington, TX

817.572.0541

Visit us at www.macsteak.com Let Mac’s cater your next special event: info@macsteak.com arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

ALL STARS: WELLNESS

Dr. Y. Anthony Nakamura Accent on You

Dr. Kenyon Godwin

Winner: Plastic Surgeon HM: Cosmetic Surgery

Winner: Chiropractor, Holistic Medicine, Wellness Center Honorable Mention: Weight Loss Program

ulti-time All Star Dr. Y. Anthony Nakamura places patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction at the foremost of his practice to ensure the best possible experience and aesthetic outcome. With more than 30 years of experience as a board-certified plastic surgeon and an esteemed cosmetic enhancement expert, Dr. Nakamura offers a warm, personalized approach for each patient from consultation to aftercare. He understands that every person’s cosmetic and health goals are as unique as their personality, and that’s why so many patients from Arlington, Dallas Fort Worth, and the surrounding communities in Texas seek out Accent on You. “We take pride in providing the utmost quality of care with the personal approach you deserve,” Dr. Nakamura says. “We believe that an informed choice is the best one. That is why at Accent on You, you will not receive anything short of the most comprehensive information about your procedure. Our relaxed, friendly atmosphere enables you to carefully consider your options so that you know your decision is the right one.” Accent on You offers specialized services that are as individualized as each of its patients. This approach ensures that patients are knowledgeable, as well as comfortable and confident with their personal aesthetic goals. Throughout the steps of your surgery, Dr. Nakamura and his team will work hard to ensure that both you and your family are confident in their capabilities and that you receive excellent care. Services include breast surgery (breast augmentation, breast lift, breast lift/augmentation and breast reduction) and body contouring (liposuction, tummy tuck, waist tuck and Mommy Makeover). Says Dr. Nakamura: “It is my hope that my 30-plus years of plastic surgery knowledge and individualized care combined with our own state-of-the-art, fully accredited surgery center, will provide you with a personalized, attentive experience as you pursue your aesthetic goals.”

Accent on You 3030 S. Cooper St. • 817-417-7200 • accentonyou.com

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Active Family Wellness Center

n each of the past eight All Star polls, Dr. Kenyon Godwin, founder of Active Family Wellness Center, has been named an All Star by our readers. This year, he and his practice earned the distinction in four categories. Dr. Godwin founded Active Family Wellness Center in 2010, and six years later, the practice was named the Arlington Chamber of Commerce’s Veteran-owned Small Business of the Year. The center has become so highly regarded by patients that Dr. Godwin opened a second office in the North Arlington area a little over two years ago to serve the community more comprehensively. Dr. Godwin is joined on the AFWC team by Dr. La’Keisha Taylor. A native of Jackson, Miss., Dr. Taylor is Webster certified and a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Together, she and Dr. Godwin strive every day to help their patients realize their full potential. “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.” The range of services offered at Active Family Wellness Center runs the gamut: Spinal Decompression, Massage Therapy, Functional Medicine, Pregnancy Chiropractic, Functional Fitness, Rehabilitation, Weight Loss and more. Dr. Godwin says caring for patients is his – and his team’s – sole priority. “Our No. 1 core value is five-star service,” he says. “We strive to exceed your expectations from the moment you call us. In our upbeat and positive environment, you’ll feel hopeful, perhaps for the first time in years. We love getting to know you and take all the time necessary to give you the attention you deserve.”

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

1281 W. Green Oaks Blvd. #119 Arlington, TX 76013

All Star Winner Mortgage Company

Andrew Dietz, David Tarr, Paul Beaney NMLS 217433, Mary Dietz NMLS 219164 Lacreta Beaney, Aaron Spaight NMLS 1391936

817.469.1811

Find us online! Prince Lebanese Grill has been family owned and operated since 1989. Here at Prince we preach family, community, and hospitality. Our food and friendly service is how we show customers our hospitality.

princelebanesegrill.com

All Star Winner International Cuisine

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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ALL STARS: WELLNESS

The Pilates Effect

Winner: Exercise / Fitness Studio, Yoga / Barre Studio

Randol Mill Pharmacy Winner: Pharmacy

andol Mill Pharmacy, with its fourth consecutive win in our annual All Star readers’ choice poll, continues to be an area favorite! Randol Mill Pharmacy has been an Arlington staple since 1965. Their talented staff strives to provide the friendliest, most professional and efficient pharmacy service in town. Five words embrace the Randol Mill Pharmacy team’s philosophy, highlighted in the company’s “5-C’s”: Care, Convenience, Cost-effectiveness, Confidentiality and Communication. Randol Mill Pharmacy is one of the area’s premier resources for prescriptions, compounded medications, over the counter (OTC) medications, and medical equipment. COVID vaccines, flu shots, shingles shots, and pneumonia shots are also given by their pharmacists. In addition, Randol Mill pharmacy can also compound your prescription (where you are not bound by commercial medications), but can have medications in the strengths and dosages that fits your particular needs. This pharmacy accepts most insurance plans, provides complementary local delivery for your convenience – and now Randol Mill Pharmacy is a package pickup Hub for Amazon. At Randol Mill Pharmacy you will find over 6,000 square feet of shopping space stocked with a full range of medical equipment, including a huge selection of canes, 4-wheel walkers, wheelchairs, bath safety equipment, hospital beds, compression hosiery and lift chairs. The pharmacy has been serving Arlington for over 50 years, and also carries unique upscale gifts, greeting cards, seasonal gifts and candies. As always, it offers complementary gift bags with any gift purchase. Randol Mill Pharmacy can be your problem solver ... tell the staff member your needs and they will work with you to meet or exceed your expectations – every time you pay a visit, call them on the phone or check in online. Randol Mill Pharmacy ... It’s More Than A Pharmacy.

Randol Mill Pharmacy 1014 N. Fielder Road • 817-274-1883 • randolmillpharmacy.com

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Readers’ Choice All Star for the fourth straight year, 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-sizefits-all; it’s 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

Arlington Orthopedic Associates Winner: Orthopedic Surgeon, PMR Specialist

rlington Orthopedic Associates had a pair of All Star physicians this year: Dr. Jay Pond as the winner in the Orthopedic Surgeon category and Dr. M. Todd Daniels as the winner in the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist category. As one of the original founding members of Arlington Orthopedic Associates, Dr. Jay Pond has been practicing General Orthopedics for over 25 years. Certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Dr. Jay Pond Dr. Todd Daniels Surgery, Dr. Pond specializes in silver-coated implants for joint replacements, which drastically reduces the chance of infection during recovery. Dr. M. Todd Daniels is a boardcertified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physician, specializing in musculoskeletal medicine and electro-diagnostics. Arlington Orthopedic Associates has been providing orthopedic care to the Lone Star State, including the Dallas and Fort Worth area, for over 20 years. AOA is now the largest orthopedic practice in North Texas, serving head to toe orthopedic, spine, sports medicine, and physical therapy needs.

Arlington Orthopedic Associates 800 Orthopedic Way • 817-375-5200 • arlingtonortho.com

682-227-6110

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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ALL STARS: PERSONAL SERVICE/LEISURE

The Sanford House

Winner: Brunch, Place for Lunch, Bed & Breakfast, Spa Honorable Mention: Customer Service, Massage

nother All Star issue means another slew of awards for The Sanford House. This is the eighth year that the inn (and all it entails, i.e., on-site fine dining at Restaurant506 and the fullservice Sanford Spa & Salon) has been honored by our readers. This year The Sanford House is an All Star in six categories. General Manager Valerie Landry proudly notes that the family-owned-and-operated 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 was especially true recently. 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. With Arlington’s long-term vision of a bustling and walkable downtown finally reaching fruition, 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.”

The Sanford House 506 N. Center St. • 817-861-2129 • thesanfordhouse.com

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The Abbey Estate

Honorable Mention: Wedding/Event Planning

aking its All Star debut this year, The Abbey Estate offers a spacious and stunning canvas for your wedding – and any other unique event for which you want a setting to remember. Owned and operated by John and Kathryn Rhadigan, The Abbey Estate features several options for your gathering, including the Modern Farmhouse featuring a soaring atrium, floor-to-ceiling windows, built-in bar, candle-strewn fireplace, and elevated back porch. Then there’s the Party Barn featuring a Texas-styled interior; the Outdoor Pergola and Lawn featuring a long and winding paved aisle, surrounded by a grove of tranquil trees; and the Flagstone Patio, Fountain and Gazebo featuring a stunning outdoor celebration expanse situated under a canopy of twinkle and bistro-lit trees. The Abbey Estate offers flat, all-inclusive rates for events with 200 or fewer guests.

The Abbey Estate 3314 Farm to Market Road 1446, Waxahachie • 972-923-3333 • theabbeyestate.com

The Levitt Pavilion

Winner: Place for Live Music HM: Outdoor Festival

retty much every year the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts in Arlington winds up in the winners’ circle, and with good cause: It provides more than 50 free concerts a year with a broad-based 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. To further enhance our entertainment pleasure, the Levitt recently added a new hospitality center and permanent restrooms, which should make the concerts – and other events the center will attract in the future – even more enticing.

The Levitt Pavilion 100 W. Abram St. • 817-543-4308 • levittpavilionarlington.org

We pride ourselves on outstanding customer service and quality work.

We have two locations that offer same day service. Our main service plant

1644 W Randol Mill Rd. Our drop off satellite

138 South Bowen Road.

“An Affordable Maid Service with All the Frills”

• One Time Cleanings • Deep Cleanings Weekly, Biweekly and Monthly Service • Priority Cleanings • Move-in/Move-out Cleanings • Post Remodel Cleanings

All Star Winner Best Rooffing

817-633-2235 GET A QUOTE

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ALL STARS: PERSONAL SERVICE/LEISURE

Live! by Loews-Arlington

Bex Laser Aesthetix

Winner: Hotel

ringing an upscale hospitality experience to Arlington’s Entertainment District, first-time All Star Live! by Loews-Arlington is a stylish resort destination that offers unparalleled, easy access to the Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Field, the Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium, the Esports Stadium Arlington & Expo Center, and more. With 35,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space we are ideal for meetings and conventions, but also perfect for anyone looking for the true meaning of Texan hospitality. Each of 300 luxury guest rooms, including 23 suites, has floor-toceiling windows offering views of Texas Live! and the nearby stadiums. Spacious layouts, natural wood surfaces and comfortable lounges and beds create a warm, soothing residential feel, and there’s all the latest technology you need for a smooth and seamless stay. Should you be hungry or thirsty, Live! by Loews-Arlington offers five luxurious in-hotel venues, including Cut & Bourbon, where you can enjoy steaks, salads, roast chicken and other favorites, and pair your picks with delicious whiskeys, wine, beer or cocktails.

W: Laser Hair Removal HM: Botox, Med Spa, Skin Care aking its second straight appearance on our All Star team, Bex Laser Aesthetix offers an array of services and products that help patients look and feel their best. Rebecca Baker, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is the owner and founder of Bex Laser Aesthetix, which opened in April of 2016. She specializes in resurfacing, injectables, laser hair removal, body contouring and total body wellness. The practice also carries professional skin care products designed to keep your skin young and vibrant. Rebecca got her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing in 1998 and has more than 20 years as an RN in different fields, Rebecca Baker including operating room, critical care, Family Nurse Practitioner cardiac care, chronic pain management, and, for the last five years, medical aesthetics. She graduated in 2019 from the UTA masters in family nurse practitioner program and added family practice to her list of offerings at the end of that year.

Bex Laser Aesthetix

Live! by Loews -Arlington

103 S. Mesquite St., Suite B • 682-227-6110 • bexme.net

1600 E Randol Mill Road • 800-235-6397 • loewshotels.com/live-by-loews-arlington-texas

Maren Karsen Aveda Salon

Cruise Planners

Honorable Mention: Hair Salon

consistent favorite in our readers’ choice poll, Maren Karsen Aveda Salon is a full-service hair salon and Aveda Experience Center located in the heart of Downtown Arlington. “Our guests are always telling us how ‘at home’ they feel at Maren Karsen Aveda Salon,” says Owner/Master Stylist and Colorist Kellie Morris. “We are professionals, but we strive to provide a relaxed, yet fun, atmosphere. We want you to feel comfortable here.” Maren Karsen is an Aveda Concept Salon with more than 20 years in the industry. It carries the full line of Aveda products, including hair care, skin care, body care and cosmetics. “Our hairdressers are continually educated on the latest trends in hair cutting and hair color, regardless of experience, in order to provide our clients with the highest quality services, bar none,” says Morris. “We promise to make your experience the best it can possibly be. We want you to tell everyone when you leave that you just went to the best salon in Arlington, Texas, or anywhere else.”

Maren Karsen Aveda Salon 200 N. Mesquire St., Suite 109 • 817-275-8686 • marenkarsen.com

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Honorable Mention: Travel Agency lways Ready Travel is a Cruise Planners Franchise owned by Linda Gardner. Linda and her daughter, Morgan Burroughs work together to provide all your vacation needs, whether it be a River Cruise, trip to Bali, the Maldives, or one of the many adventures America has to offer. We can help you plan a fun and fantastic trip! We take the time to research your options which is time that you often do not have! We are here to help you plan trips that will provide a lifetime of great memories. We are available to you while traveling in case of needed adjustments and are all about providing value and exceeding your expectations! Give us a call today and start planning your next get-a-way or building out YOUR bucket list of travel!

Cruise Planners 817-720-9667 • www.alwaysreadytravel.com

LOVE YOUR PETS? Let us share them with our viewers! Submit pictures and a small bio of your pets to pets@arlingtontoday.com to be selected as one of our

#ATPETSOFTHEMONTH If selected to appear in the magazine you will receive a Gift Card.

Dear Readers: Thanks for voting! From your grateful friends at

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ALL STARS: PERSONAL SERVICE/LEISURE

Great Skin Spa & Facial Club

Massage Envy

Winner: Skin Care

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 skin care and beauty business 15 years ago as the first U.S. franchisee of Canadian-based Faces cosmetics. Taking that experience, she founded Great Skin Spa & Facial Club 11 years ago in Arlington, where the company has continued to grow and gain notoriety as an exceptional day spa and skin care provider. At Great Skin she not only shares her experience in creating and maintaining beautiful skin via state-of-the-industry technology and products; she also has championed the practice of receiving professional spa services as part of personal care, as opposed to a special occasional visit or gift due to affordability. Great Skin Facial Club members receive a wide range of treatment options at the spa, as well as guidance and products they can use at home. “I developed the concept of Great Skin based on the goals of the thousands of clients – men and women – wanting to have more beautiful skin and manage the signs of aging skin through treatments, knowledge and skin care,” Hunt says. As a result, Great Skin offers a full line of award-winning skin care products for anti-aging, acne, hyperpigmentation and general skin care, as well as skin and body care for men, women and teens, and waxing, teeth whitening and massage. New services include microneedling, non-needle lip plumping and enhancement, non-surgical Brazilian Butt Lifting and contouring, cellulite and fat melting treatments, along with body contouring, foot detoxing and an extensive line of skin and body care. Hunt also offers “Hemp Healing Cream” for skin and body care to pay homage to her mother, Mattie, who was afflicted with Alzheimer’s. GS is also known for its instant slimming treatments, and it now offers @ accept care, which is a credit card for health & beauty. Great Skin implements operating principals of disease control to keep clients and staff safe and healthy. “Also,” she notes, “we specialize in treating every skin type, tone and texture with excellent results from knowledge, education and experience.” Great Skin offers a turnkey franchise program that includes everything needed to successfully own and operate your own Great Skin Spa & Facial Club. “It’s about partnership at Great Skin,” Hunt says. “Our slogan is ‘Relax, Rewind, Renew!’” Customers rave about the calming and happy atmosphere, services, results and knowledge of staff – “A gem in Arlington!”

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Winner: Massage

he team at Massage Envy, now a back-to-back All Star, 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. Massage Envy features professional massage, advanced skin care including micro derm infusion and chemical peels and stretch 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 South 360, Suite 610 • 817-303-3689 Mansfield: 1497 Hwy. 287 North • 817-453-3689

River Legacy Parks Winner: Local Park

here’s an obvious love affair between Arlington area residents and River Legacy Parks – this is the eighth 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.

Great Skin Spa & Facial Club

River Legacy Parks

3851 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-478-2114 • greatskin4you.com

703 N.W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-860-6752 • riverlegacy.org

ARLINGTON TODAY • August 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

A Full-Service AvedA SAlon And Store in downtown Arlington.

Unique Exposure Photography

Honorable Mention

2018-2019 Readers’ Choice

All Star ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

All Star Hair Salon

200 N. Mesquite St., Suite109 l Arlington 76011 l 817.275.8686 www.marenkarsen.com www.facebook/MarenKarsenSalon l

The Candlelite Inn restaurant is a part of history in Arlington, Texas. Established in 1957 it was the first restaurant to offer pizza in Arlington. When the restaurant was in the small rock building next to the existing structure all they served was tacos, pizza, beer, and soft drinks.

Honorable Mention Steakhouse

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Arlington-Mansfield 5001 S Cooper St, Suite 111 Arlington, TX 76017 (817) 557-2253 Arlington-North 839 E Lamar BLVD Arlington, TX 76011 (817) 583-6522 NothingBundtCakes.com 08/31/21

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Thank You for voting Arlington Today readers

All Star Family Law Attorney

The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt, PLLC ArlingtonDivorces.com

Linnea

the creator of Linnea Rae Collection

Poured is an upscale yet cozy wine bar offering wines, bubbles & beers along with appetizers and lite bites. Perfect place for date night, girls’ night out, corporate parties, birthday parties, bridal & baby showers and any special occasion!

1601 E. Debbie Lane, Suite 1105, Mansfield, Texas 76063 Each Purchase you make from the Linnea Rae Collection provides support and services to victims of domestic violence.

www.pouredtx.com

facebook.com/pouredtx

@pouredtx Instagram

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Your Community Credit Union Thank you for voting us an All Star!

To help our members achieve their financial goals, we provide low and no cost services, like truly free checking accounts, and budget-friendly loans. Plus, our members enjoy personalized service and access to their accounts, when and where they need them! Join today & start saving! gtfcu.org | 800.749.9732

All Star Winner AUTO DEALER - LUXURY CARS

1425 North Center Street Arlington, TX 76011 Equal Housing Lender.

Federally insured by NCUA.

Thank you for your support and for voting J Gilligan’s best place for lunch Honorable Mention Place for Lunch

Arlington Tradition and Gathering Place 42 years and counting

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• CONVERSATION

Q&A

Nadia DiStefano. Board responsibilities (in general) are to support Leadership Arlington by providing their advice, expertise and Paulette Tutor, executive director of Leadership Arlington, personal advocacy. The Board manages the affairs of the corporation on matters relating talks about the promising future ahead for her home town to its continued growth, impact and financial planning for the future. Board terms are 1 year, beginning July 1 through June 30 of each year. ARLINGTON TODAY: How did you come to be executive director AT: How many people are in the Class of 2021-22, and how were of Leadership Arlington? Please include past experience that they selected? played a role. PT: Each year we select 35-40 Adults and 35-40 Youth. The PAULETTE TUTOR: I have volunteered for many years with application is completed online and additional forms, transcripts Leadership Arlington (I am part of the Best Class 2011). I have are provided. The Directors of each of the programs review the held many roles on the Board of Directors and in July of 2020 applications. interviewed and was named the Executive Director. AT: The work of Leadership Arlington mirrors that of leadership In 2019 I received a Master’s Degree in Management and groups in other cities. Please share some of the “inherently Leadership, which I believe helped with my qualifications. Arlington” aspects of the organization and highlight what makes AT: In a nutshell, what is Leadership Arlington all about? them special. PT: Leadership Arlington is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization PT: Our program introduces the classes to our city through whose mission is focused on the development of the next physically being part of the session and visiting key locations in generation of community leaders. We have an Adult Training our city. They have access to leadership and executives, as well Program and a Youth Training Program for Juniors in High as public and private locations that are unique to only School. In a nutshell, it’s a nine-month training program Leadership Arlington. Example: Education session highlighting many public and private areas to lead includes meeting with Dr. Marcelo Cavazos, and serve in our city. Superintendent of AISD, Dr. William Coppola of AT: What is your vision with regard to where Tarrant County College and Dr. Teik Lim, the Leadership Arlington will go this year and in interim president of UTA. the near future? AT: The recent classes have had to deal with PT: My vision for Leadership Arlington is to the COVID pandemic. What challenges be “the” place our community finds leaders. were presented, and what measures did the We have pivoted (like others) this past year, organization’s leadership take to make the and it has given us the opportunity to finebest of a tough situation? tune and create an exceptional experience. PT: One of the challenges this past year was AT: Who, in addition to you, is on the board of the delivery of content in a meaningful way. directors? What does the board do in general? Normally, it is “hands on,” and we had to get PT: Board members are Chair Elect Ryan Hunt, creative transitioning to Zoom only for the youth. Past Chair Jack Webb, Secretary Lauren Wright, The leadership of the organization really took on Finance Director Brian Razloznik, Development active roles in the classes (Youth and Adult) by rewriting Director Brig Serman, Membership Director Debra curriculum, finding locations where we could socially distance or Meers, Marketing Director Lisa Mann, Director of Adult Training simply attending and being part of the conversations. Dawud Mabon, Assistant Director of Adult Training Jakisha Jones, AT: Please describe what you believe Leadership Arlington Director of Youth Training Nancy Blinn, Director of Youth Training means to the city. Chris Pettitt, Assistant Director of Youth Training Blake Davidson, PT: Leadership Arlington is an integral part to the future of the Youth Class Representative Owen McGilberry, Adult Class city of Arlington. We introduce individuals to “THE AMERICAN Representative Jamil Ahmed, Director of Outreach Julie Reinhardt, DREAM CITY,” which is a diverse city full of opportunities and JLA Representative Jennifer Cummings, Arlington Chamber challenges. We hope they’ll plug in and find ways to lead and Representative Henry Lewczyk, UTA Representative James serve in this great city to further the opportunities and tackle those Hollis, Parliamentarian Jean Jewell, Webmaster Leslie McGuire, challenges head on. We are identifying, developing and educating At Large Blake Barry, At Large Kinsey Thayer, At Large Kathryn future community leaders. Haubold, At Large Brandon Demings, and Program Director 114

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Thank you for voting us

All Star Winner - Best Coffee Shop! Every good day begins wwh a great cup of coffee

Roasting & serving coffee in Downtown Arlington

400 E. Division St. | Arlington, TX 76011 SalterBrosCoffee.com | 817-200-7790

Look younger. Feel stronger. Be healthier. • Weight Loos • Hormone Replacement Therapy • Sexual Wellness • Concierge Medicine Additional services: CoolSculpting, Emsculpt, IV therapy, Exilis Ultra 360, Hydrafacial, Ozone therapy All Star Rejuvinator

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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CRUISE PLANNERS YOUR LAND AND CRUISE EXPERTS

We custom-design vacations

to give you an extraordinary experience with advantage pricing and extra perks. Whether it’s a trip to Disney, Australia, we can work with your bucket list. Call Linda Gardner and Morgan Burroughs today to schedule your vacation.

817-720-9667

w. www.alwaysreadytravel.com e. seetheworld@alwaysreadytravel.com

Honorable Mention Travel Agency

8 BBQ since 1910 Morgan Burroughs

• Birthdays • Business • Special Events • Pickup • Ship Delivery via Major Delivery services

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e Fitzgeralds

817-917-0729

All Star Winner Pet Specialties

Terri Cox Photography

Family Owned & Operated

817-795-3135

“A” Rating on

817-592-3531

• Excellent Customer Service • Real Estate Inspections • Routine Weekly Maintenance • Quality Products • Equipment Repairs & Replacements • Remodels

Coming soon to Fort Worth !

Pool Service

Pool Builder Pool Service and Remodeler

�ank you

for voting for

Insurance

Best Insurance Company

Tel-817.303.1187

1006 N. Bowen Rd. Ste A | Arlington, TX 76012 www.gecinsurance.com arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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• LISTEN UP!

You Won’t Want to Miss:

THE PLASTIC DAISIES

Discover what Nathan Walters was thinking for a majority of 2020 • By Bailey Woodard

athan Walters isn’t new to the North Texas Music scene. Whether performing with other local artists such as Ayden Trammel and the 40 Stories, KindKeith, or One-Eyed Monsters, he’s always working on a new project. One of these new projects is his new album under the stage name, The Plastic Daisies: “Eat Your Brain For Breakfast.” “I’m terrible with free time,” Walters says. “I get anxious. I start to feel like I’m not working hard enough.” While he may not feel like he’s working hard enough, those who have listened to the wide array of Nathan’s work would beg to differ. The Arlington native’s first full-length album, “Eat Your Brain For Breakfast,” is a testament to Walters’ growth and hard work as a musician over the years. The album, featuring the talents of KindKeith and Aaron Payton, served not only as Walter’s first fulllength under the moniker The Plastic Daisies, but as his capstone project for Texas State’s Sound Recording Technology program –showcasing his growth not only as an artist, but as a producer and student as well. Knowing that a fulllength Plastic Daisies album was in his future, all Walters needed was time – time that the pandemic amply provided. Locking himself in his parents’ sunroom-turned-music room, Walters was able to expand upon several pre-recorded songs and document this period of time through the record. “It was kind of a mix of having free time and needing something to organize my thoughts,” he says. “It was like a diary to document how I felt … the whole COVID thing was kinda heavy and … I was dealing with that and some heavier

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things. [The album] helped to have something to exercise and get that out on paper, and not in an uncomfortable way.” Just as he describes, “Eat Your Brain For Breakfast” is the psychedelic/indie rock diary to this period of Walters’ life. Dealing with the isolation of the pandemic and the recent loss of a friend and former bandmate, Walters brings the listener into his mind, melodically examining feelings of loss and introspection across the nine tracks. Standout cuts on the album such as “December” document the isolation of a winter’s quarantine and the difficulty for so many to connect throughout this period of time, a feeling that resonated with many over this past year. Opening the track with the lyrics. “It’s so hard to reach out and try to touch somebody,” Walters encapsulates what so many felt through this period of time, but couldn’t quite articulate – nevertheless articulate to an accompanying track. Alongside recording original works, The Plastic Daisies album pays homage to jazz and funk influences, with a cover of Cannonball Adderley’s “Nardis” on track five and rounding out the record with Sly and the Family Stone’s “If This Room Could Talk.” While the world may be emerging from the pandemic, Album cover by Athen Smith “Eat Your Brain For Breakfast” acts as a time capsule, documenting this odd moment in all of our lives. So if you’ve been looking for an album that showcases a wide array of musical emotions through rock, or simply “want to know what [Nathan] was thinking for a majority of 2020” ... here you go. You can find Nathan Walters on Instagram @nathan_walt and listen to the album “Eat Your Brain For Breakfast” on Spotify and Apple Music.

Remember 9/11 at The Levitt Lee Greenwood

AUTO • HOME • LIFE • BUSINESS

Deana Carter

Join your friends and neighbors on the Levitt lawn as we gather to remember the 20th anniversary of 9/11. In addition to a concert by headliner Lee Greenwood and an opening act by Deana Carter, we will be honoring the military and first responders at the special night.

TEXAS INSURANCE AGENCY

Your road to a secure future.

Gates open at 5 p.m. Program begins at 6 p.m. Deana Carter opens the show at 7:00 p.m.

TEXAS INSURANCE AGENCY

Lee Greenwood performs at 8:30 p.m.

Your road to a secure today and tomorrow

Reserved tickets are $45.

buy.ticketstothecity.com/purchase.php?date_id=39742&section_id=8620

General Admission tickets are $25.

buy.ticketstothecity.com/purchase.php?date_id=39785

All Star Insurance

Winner 2018

Readers’ Choice

All Star

Home/Auto Insurance

Winner 2019

Honorable Mention

Readers’ Choice

2020

All Star

ARLINGTON Today

your community • your magazine

First Responders and Military receive a $5 discount on both Reserve & General Admission tickets

All Star

Home/Auto Insurance

your community • your magazine

817-226-9988 • 500 E. Broad Street • Mansfield, Tx 76063

www.texasins.net

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• THE GREATER ARLINGTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

GROWING IN NUMBERS • By Britton Merritt, Vice President, Marketing & Communications

he Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce staunchly advocates for the success of small and local businesses in our community. As the economy has revved back up, so has the Chamber. Since opening up to in-person events in May, the Chamber has hosted 1,100 local business leaders and community advocates at more than 20 networking events. Plus, ribbon cuttings are hosted around the community celebrating businesses that have opened or relocated. It’s a joy to see dozens of citizens light up around a small business owner’s dream. The efforts the Chamber went through over the past 15 months to keep people connected online deserve to be recognized. They hosted hundreds of online networking events with thousands of attendees to allow businesses to connect online. They created a Facebook Live series with over 100 hours of content covering every topic from PPP loans to professional development to community updates. Prior to and during the State’s legislative session, the Chamber kept our collective voices heard in Austin by supporting those issues that might have a direct impact on our business communities. Chamber staff also personally called all 1,200+ business members to check-in and see how businesses were doing and inform them of the many new programs that were being implemented.

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With this amount of enthusiasm comes an amazing group of business leaders that want to keep the momentum going. The Chamber boasts a diverse set of member groups with dedicated participants - Chamber Ambassadors, Women’s Alliance, Young Professionals, Asian Business Council, Latino Business Group and Veterans Business Council. These member groups, along with the Chamber Board of Directors, worked diligently as volunteers during the membership drive in June recruiting more than 125 local businesses to join the Chamber. Many of those new members are already taking advantage of the many benefits offered by the Chamber. As a new Chamber member, or current one, you can get involved in the community while also growing your business. Whether it’s working with Partners in Education, a collaborative effort between the Arlington ISD and the Chamber, to impact the future leaders of our city, or joining one of our networking groups to expand your business reach, there’s something here for you. Many new members also find common ground through philanthropic projects or professional development provided by the Chamber. The Greater Arlington Chamber offers unique products, services and relationships for every business owner and leader throughout our communities.

• TECHNOLOGY

SAFETY FIRST

New app keeps Arlington he City of Arlington is putting technology and make better informed to work in a new way to make traveling planning decisions. drivers abreast of through The American Dream City easier As part of the partnership, roadwork issues ahead and safer. Through a partnership with Buyers Arlington also provides • By Susan Schrock Barricades, Arlington is the first city in Texas to construction, crash and road implement Wanco’s Connected Arrow Boards, closure data to Waze to give which do more than signal to approaching drivers awareness of the most drivers whether to move over to the left or right for lane current road conditions they will face on their commute. closures. “We already rely on Waze as a tool to help drivers navigate These electronic boards also have the ability to transmit an construction and avoid congestion as they travel through our alert directly to the Waze app, providing drivers who use the city. These Connected Arrow Boards will help us get information app advance notice of lane mergers ahead that could affect their to drivers who use the app even more efficiently,” interim City commute. The alert appears as a construction hat icon in the app Traffic Engineer Daniel Burnham says. “We appreciate the that the app users can tap on for more information at a glance. opportunity to partner with Buyers Barricades and be the first The City of Arlington has participated in a data-sharing city in the state to implement this evolving technology.” partnership with Waze since 2017. The Waze for Cities Program Drivers can download Waze for free at waze.com/get for iOS provides a look at real-time road activity, allowing Arlington and Android and see real-time traffic, find optimal routes, avoid to harness real-time driver insights to improve congestion road closures and more.

Fall Classes Start in

September

Registration Opens

August 2nd

305 W. Main St. Arlington, TX 76010 Phone: 817-275-7661 www.theatrearlington.org Season Sponsors

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Love That Smile Casino Night was a big success! Dental Health Arlington held their annual Love That Smile Casino Night on Saturday evening, June 26, 2021, at American Airlines CR Smith Museum, which graciously allowed us to use this amazing venue once again. We had approximately two hundred guests in attendance which not only was a new record for us but also included numerous community leaders, our deserving award winners, and friends both old and new to DHA. dese

Board Of Directors

Our emcee for the evening Kara Sewell, morning news anchor for WFAA Daybreak, once again did a phenomenal job as emcee and provided an infectious excitement that spotlighted both our auction baskets and live auction items which included a custom-made emerald ring, Texas Rangers game package, and Hill Country getaway. Her enthusiasm and charm spilled over into encouraging the live and virtual audiences to bid on our over sixty silent auction items. Kara may be one of our newer DHA friends, but we could not be more grateful for her support and promotion of our mission as a community ambassador! Our five-hour event began with a video spotlighting one of our wonderful donors, Ben and Mary Doskocil. Their generous support has helped numerous children throughout Texas with their preventive dental needs. Other highlights included casino gaming provided by Casino Parties Inc. who has been a great partner with DHA for several years and a 50/50 raffle drawing emceed by a fabulous auctioneer, Arlington’s own Biz TV host, Bryan Weatherford. Musical entertainment was provided by the extraordinary group NGNG Plus The One Mores who continue to be dedicated supporters of Dental Health Arlington. We would also like to thank Javier Ortega and the awesome crew of SEAM production company; Dan Pope with Roaring Good Photography, and Doug Boster for catering the delicious Italian buffet. One very special portion of the program included four well deserved awards: The Sally Hopper Golden Crown Award - Brig Serman, The SMILES Volunteer of the Year- Katherine Nguyen, The Clinic Volunteer of the Year- Dr. Jeremy Unger, and Excellence in Dental Hygiene “Prophy Trophy”- Lilly Ortiz-Grelard, RDH. In addition, a current patient, Precious Brandon, had some very ve kind words about DHA and how DHA has served her and her family with their dental needs over the last several years. We would like to extend a huge shout out to our top sponsors: Ben and Mary Frances Doskocil and Dental Directions! We were able to set a new DHA event record by grossing over $57,000 thanks to all our great sponsors and guests! Thank you to EVERYONE involved!

A few comments from individuals in attendance: “What a great event. We can’t wait until next year!” “The signature drink and toast were amazing!” “Loved the casino games. It was so much fun, and the dealers were super helpful.” “The silent auction baskets contained some amazing items and were displayed in such an inviting way you couldn’t pass up bidding on them!”

If you would like to make a donation to Dental Health Arlington benefitting the low-cost DHA Dental Clinic or school-based SMILES program, you can use the provided link. Donations are always accepted and much appreciated!

http://www.dentalhealtharlington.org/

• DINING GUIDE

Keen Cuisine UPSCALE

Candlelite Inn

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

AMERICAN

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

Cartel Taco Bar

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

MEXICAN / TEX-MEX

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

El Gabacho

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

ITALIAN / PIZZA

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

BARBECUE

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

INTERNATIONAL

Prince Lebanese Grill • 502 W. Randol Mill • 817-469-1811• princelebanesegrill.com 124

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David’s Barbecue

• SPEAKING OF SPORTS If the Dallas Cowboys are to break through this year and become champions, the re-signing of quarterback Dak Prescott will be a major reason.

Can Cowboys mine gold in California?

Photo: foxsports1510.com

that did everything right in the off season. They signed Dak f you have read this column before you know I am a big Prescott! fan of classic rock. I have opined about the Beatles and “It seems that the wrath of the gods got a punch on the nose the Stones. Have I mentioned that I had a conversation and it’s starting to flow, I think I might be sinking.” with Mick Jagger? (Odd how I find a way to work that into so That’s another line from “Going to California,” and, when many columns, isn’t it?) Anyway, this month it is Led Zepplin Dak got hurt last year, that is a line that played in my head. playing in my head. Specifically the line, “Goin’ to California This team needs Dak – he is their emotional leader, their with an achin’ in my heart.” It is from their classic “Going to spiritual lead and their on field General. If anyone is going to California,” a great song with a creepy tone. bring this team out of the drought it is him. For decades, Cowboys fans have spent part of their summer The other thing they did this off season was rebuild the Goin’ to California to watch the Cowboys train. For decades, defense. Last year they fielded an historically bad group on they have heard that this is the year. For decades, it hasn’t been. that side of the ball. If new Defensive Coordinator Dan Quinn Since 2001 America’s Team has been staging some portion of can do what he did in Seattle and turn this young squad into training camp at the River Ridge Playing Fields in Oxnard, anything that resembles the Legion Calif. It is a wonderful place to visit. The of Boom, then the Cowboys have a weather is great, you are not too far from chance. LA, you are close to Santa Barbara. But Once again, this year it all starts you know what the Cowboys haven’t John Rhadigan in California. Very few fans will been close to since heading west? A have an achin’ in their hearts if they Super Bowl! travel to Cowboys training camp. No matter what the Patriots with all THE QUESTION about how The team will still be undefeated, the their success or the Steelers with all good the Cowboys can be players and coaches will look great their history say, the Cowboys are still and say all the right things, and the America’s Team. And yet my daughter will be answered, starting this high temperatures will be in the 70s. is nearly three decades old and she does month at training camp. Besides, there is a golf course adjacent not remember when the Cowboys “were to the practice fields. If you have to wait on the group in front good.” of you, there are a couple of tee boxes where you can watch The sobering fact is that the Cowboys are in a group with practice from a hill above the fields. the Lions, the Browns and the Bengals for the longest span Which reminds me: The last line of “Going to California” is, between championship game appearances. Only those teams “Standin’ on a hill in a mountain of dreams, Tellin myself it’s plus the Washington Football Team and the Dolphins have not as hard, hard, hard as it seems.” The truth is the last time had longer championship game appearance droughts than the Cowboys won the Super Bowl they held training camp the Cowboys. It has been 25 years for the Cowboys, 28 for right here in Texas. Should we put a “soft hold” on St. Edwards the Dolphins and Browns, 29 for the Lions and that team in University in Austin for next July? Washington and 32 for the Bengals. I grew up a Lions fan. No Maybe it’s that simple. franchise wants to match them in futility. It is just not a place you want to be. So as thousands of Cowboys fans go to California for training camp this month what will they find? It is a good question, and the short answer is that they will find a team Sports columnist John Rhadigan is an anchor for the Bally Sports Southwest television network.

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COMING SOON new

RIVER LEGACY’S TRAVELING EXHIBIT!

Join Us! The Junior League of Arlington has: 375 members from 16 cities

OPEN NOV 13, 2021 THROUGH FEB 12, 2022

Completed 750,000 volunteer hours Donated $3 million to area non-profits

RIVER LEGACY LIVING SCIENCE CENTER

Upcoming Events: September 23 - North Texas Giving Day September 25 - Virtual Open House September 30 - New Member Class Begins

Now Accepting Applications! For more information, email recruitment@jlarlington.org

703 NW GREEN OAKS BOULEVARD ARLINGTON TX 76006

LEARN MORE WWW.RIVERLEGACY.ORG

Help us Save the Day at this

EPIC EVENT! CASA OF TARRANT COUNTY’S

8TH ANNUAL SUPERHERO RUN OCTOBER 30, 2021 LEVITT PAVILION ARLINGTON Registration and Costume Contest at 7am 1 Mile Fun Run & Villain Chase at 8am 5K Run/Walk at 8:30am Charlie & M.K. Scherer

To register visit SpeakUpForAChild.org

• EVENTS, ETC.

Itinerary

Dallas Cowboys football

The Dallas Cowboys open the 2021 season with a pair of preseason games at AT&T Stadium this month. They’ll play the Houston Texans at 7 p.m. on Aug. 21. They’ll play the Jacksonville Jaguars at noon on Aug. 29. dallascowboys.com Photo: dallascowboys.com

ARLINGTON BACKYARD at Texas Live! will be the site of two blockbuster concerts this month. First, at 6 p.m. on Aug. 6, the venue will present K-Pop sensation Kevin Woo. Woo was formerly a member of South Korean boy band U-KISS before going solo in 2018. His hits have made him a star in Asia, and now he’s spreading his wings with a tour of the United States – and a stop in Arlington! Two weeks later, Arlington Backyard will be the city music hot spot once again when the Miller Lite Hot Country Nights concert series brings Pat Green to the Arlington stage. Green’s show will begin at 6 p.m. and is likely to include hits such as “Wave on Wave,” “Feels Just Like It Should,” “Don’t Break My Heart Again” and “Dixie Lullaby.” texas-live.com/events

GRAND PRAIRIE’S Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark will be the host site for the Flowboarder, Flow Tour Nationals Championship on Aug. 13-15. Not only will this annual competition be held at Epic Waters, but the waterpark is taking the event to a whole new level by turning it into a three-day festival for watersports fans via an event called Flowapalooza. The Flow Tour Nationals will give FlowRider competitors the chance to show off their skills in front of an eager, energized crowd for the chance to win the $10,000 grand prize. Meanwhile, the fans can enjoy live music, carnival games, immersive activities, tasty cuisine, delicious beverages, door prizes and much more. epicwatersgp.com/flowapalooza 128

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Texas Rangers baseball

This month, your Texas Rangers will play home series against the L.A. Angels (Aug. 2-5), the Oakland A’s (Aug. 13-15), the Seattle Mariners (Aug. 17-19) the Houston Astros (Aug. 27-29) and the Colorado Rockies (Aug. 30-Sept. 1). mlb.com/rangers Photo: mlb.com/rangers

30 Americans exhibit

Arlington Museum of Art is presenting the exhibit, 30 Americans, through Sept. 5. 30 Americans showcases works by 30 emerging and established African American artists of the past three decades. arlingtonmuseum.org Photo: arlingtonmuseum.org

arlingtontoday.com • August 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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• FINISH LINE

A decision that shaped our lives

Who would have figured that the 50 cents we paid for parking at Six Flags Over Texas in 1964 would be one of the more important investments my wife and I would ever make?

Photo: retrokimmer.com

My office colleagues provided a big send off and gifted me a n this page in our May edition I wrote about the cowboy hat they insisted I needed. I proudly put it on my head approaching 60th anniversary of the opening of Six Flags as my wife, her sister, Penny (along to help with the move) and Over Texas and how that event launched Arlington’s largest our eight-month old son Brian crossed the state line and were economy. welcomed to Texas by a big billboard. August 5, 1961, was the exact day when dignitaries throughout We found an apartment near Cooper Street and Park Row and the region showed up for the grand opening as history was made added ourselves to the 80,000 or so who called Arlington their home. that would forever change the face of our city. I had also found a strategic office location next door to the Arlington I mentioned in my earlier commentary how Sylvia and I had Board of Realtors and across the street from the post office. chosen Six Flags as the destination for our 1964 wedding trip – a From there I set out on my daily calls to the city’s real estate decision that would significantly shape our lives. offices declaring that I was the new mortgage loan professional in From our hometown of Monroe, La., there was just enough in town and prepared to provide superior service for them and their our checking account to take us as far as what had become known home buyers. as some sort of little Disneyland. Among my earliest contacts was Realtor, builder, and soon It was a trip of about 300 miles, and I convinced my dad that he to-be developer, Ralph Shelton. He was should let me borrow his Buick for the instrumental in getting me acquainted journey because my 1957 Chevy was not with his industry’s colleagues and in shape for the round trip. opened those doors for me to form lasting Since Six Flags advertised itself as business ties. being in Dallas, we really hadn’t noticed Richard Greene Ralph later had the idea that Arlington that the adventure we had planned was needed an active consortium of active actually some distance west along the members of the city to advance the ideals DFW Turnpike and in another town ALL IT TOOK was one visit of a better community and launched the altogether. to the City of Arlington to organization known as Young Men For On the way from Dallas, we traversed convince us that this was our Arlington and became its first president. I high bridges across what appeared to be would follow as its third. a stream that we later learned was the “place to be.” In the ensuing years, Ralph was elected Trinity River, something we would be to the city council and from that post nominated me to serve on involved with in significant ways years later. the planning and zoning commission. In any event, we entered the park, paid the 50 cents for parking, All the while, Sylvia had become an active PTA member, the $2.75 entrance fee and set out to discover all the wonders of rising to the presidency of Key Elementary, Gunn Junior High, Mexico, France, Spain, The Confederacy, Texas and the USA. Arlington Council of PTAs and then Regional VP in the Texas Two years later after making a name for myself as a top PTA – a position she relinquished after becoming Arlington’s First producer for the mortgage company I was working for, my bosses Lady when I was elected mayor. wanted to know if I was interested in opening a branch office in Our life in the city now spans 54 years and can be traced Texas. to that wedding trip we decided to take to Arlington’s first The plan was to find a location in either the Houston or Dallasattraction in the city’s remarkable entertainment district now Fort Worth growing markets. That’s when I contributed to the hosting some 15 million visitors annually and destined for discussion saying I knew of a place that was squarely in between many more. the two big cities in North Texas. 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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But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them wwhout expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. –Luke 6:35 Blake Wade

Funeral Director - General Manager

All Star Customer Service

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August 2021

Articles inside

Q&A

Growing in numbers

We’ve got to hand it to him