December 2022

28

Editors' Choice awards

This month we pay tribute to some of our favorite people, places and things in 2022.

50

A Ferrari like no other

During a recent vacation our Richard Greene got to know Steve Cantera and his oh, so hot classic car

54

Music to their ears

UTA's Latin Combo was recently tabbed as the best undergraduate Latin group in the nation.

56

Holiday highlights

Here are some notable events and traditions that can help make your season stay bright.

60

Home SWEET! Home

Join us on our tour of some of the more festive holiday dwellings we've spotlighted over the years.

66

Mainly Mansfield

The Mansfield Public Library is converting a generous grant into a STEM-centric Mobile Markerspace.

The Texas Christkindl Market, one of the city's more revered holiday traditions, returns to Arlington with a better-than-ever version for 2022. It will run through Dec. 23 at Globe Life

DEPARTMENTS

Starting Line

Itinerary 12

This ‘n Data 14

Around Town 22

Scene 24, 62

Style 58

Bulletin Board 68

Keen Cuisine 70

Speaking of Sports 72

Finish Line 74

FROM US TO YOU:

I've already received my Christmas gift

If she had her druthers, my lovely daughter Hannah would start playing Christmas music on Dec. 26. That would give her 364 days to get in the holiday spirit each year. Likewise, my wife thinks the most wonderful time of the year commences roughly after Labor Day. At least, that's when the Amazon packages filled with Christmas goodies for all the offspring and offspring of offspring begin arriving. I'm not kidding. I considered purchasing stock in the company just to offset marginally what we've contributed to the bottom line on Jeff Bezos' ledger.

As for the zeal these loved ones muster during this time of year, I doff the hat they gave me last holiday and profess considerable admiration. It warms my heart when Christmas lasts more than a day, and these two significant women in my life have remarkably managed to extend "the spirit" not just in time measured by calendars and clocks but through lives that enhance all the other lives around them.

It probably should be noted here that both Hannah and Susan are school teachers. Great ones, at that. To wit: Hannah actually convinced a bunch of 10th graders that the most important assignment she was giving them this year would not focus on geography, despite the fact that she was teaching a geography class. Instead, just prior to the fourth Thursday of November she asked each pupil to fill out a card noting that for which they were thankful. "And, by thankful," she said, "I mean put down what you are truly thankful for." There were more than a few tears streaming down the cheeks of folks who read the completed assignments on a wall outside Hannah's classroom. Her geography students apparently discovered where the heart is located.

Susan has been plying her craft for about as long as Hannah has been alive. That means she has influenced the lives of literally thousands of sixth and seventh graders.

One of them, Halapoulivaati Vaitai (Vaati, for short) now plays for the Detroit Lions in the National Football League. He earned a Super Bowl Ring playing for the Philadelphia Eagles a few years back.

Vaati is about to be 30 years old, which means he hasn't sat in my wife's class for nearly two decades. Not long ago, Susan received a note from Vaati thanking her for investing in his life during his formative years. He told her that she didn't just teach him science, she taught him how to be a better kid and how to prepare himself to be a better man. "I just want to thank you for that," he wrote.

I share those stories to emphasize this one: Being a blessing to others is the best holiday music and/or gift anyone can share. Even – especially –beginning on Dec. 26.

yale@arlingtontoday.com

EXECUTIVE BOARD

Executive Publisher

Judy M. Rupay

CEO

Richard Greene

EDITORIAL Editor

Yale Youngblood

Sports Columnist

John Rhadigan

Special Columnist

Edward G. Lengel

Website & Social Media Manager

Bailey Woodard

Graphic Artist

Francisco Cuevas

Contributing Writer

Kenneth Perkins

Contributing Photographers

Dwayne Lee, Heather Lee, Bobbie Jo Majors

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

Yale Youngblood

ITINERARY ...

COWBOYS FOOTBALL

All (or a lot) of the marbles are at stake

THIS IS HOW YOU OPERATE AN ART MUSUEM

TEXAS STATE TITLE GAMES RETURN TO TOWN THIS MONTH

As is the December custom, Arlington will be Football Town USA (or, at least, Football Town Texas) when the best teams in the state converge at AT&T Stadium for the University Interscholastic League championship games.

The first action will begin at noon on Dec. 14, and before the day is over, championships will be decided in Class 1A Divisions 1 and 2 and in Class 2A Division. 1

On Dec. 15, title games will be played in Class 2A Division 1 and Class 3A Divisions 1 and 2.

On Dec. 16, championships will be decided in Class 4A Divisions 1 and 2 and in Class 5A Division 2.

On Dec. 17, the title games feature the best teams in Class 5A Division 2 and Class 6A Divisions 1 and 2. attstadium.com

• the date:

As they make their National Football League playoff push, the Dallas Cowboys will play host to three teams this month. They will entertain the Indianapolis Colts (7:20 p.m. on Dec. 4) and the Houston Texans (noon on Dec. 11), then they'll have a holiday – and NFC East – battle with the Philadelphia Eagles at 3:25 p.m. on Christmas Eve. That latter game could decide who wins the league's toughest division. dallascowboys.com

THE NUTCRACKER

UTA to present the holiday favorite

As part of the World Ballet Series, the Nutcracker, which will be presented at 7 p.m. on Dec. 9 at the University of Texas at Arlington's Texas Hall, is performed live by a multinational cast of 50 professional ballet dancers gathered to bring the most beloved holiday tradition to life. This family-friendly experience features 150-plus hand-sewn costumes, hand-crafted sets and classic Marius Petipa choreography. utatickets.com/ticketinfonutcracker.php Photo: elle.com

PEPPA PIG'S ADVENTURE

Here's a camping trip for the ages

Peppa Pig's Adventure, a family friendly program set for 6 p.m. on Dec. 26, is part of the 10th anniversary celebration at the University of Texas at Arlington's College Park Center. The live musical, which follows Peppa during an exciting camping trip in the winter woods features singing, dancing, games and surprises. Little piggies everywhere will love this 60-minute live musical experience! utatickets.com

In addition to presenting a pair of exhibits that will run through Feb. 12 – "A Knight's Tale" and " LJ Eidolon: Dreams, Allegory, & Gestalt" – Arlington Museum of Art also has a number of interactive programs on tap this month. To wit ...

Dec. 2 (5:30- 8 p.m.): A (K)night of Whiskey, Wine, and Chocolate –Join Yelibelly Chocolates as they masterfully curate three delicious pairings to enjoy with your choice of either whiskey or wine.

Dec. 4 (6-7 p.m.): ARTICULATE presents “The Basics of Armour: What to Wear and Why,” A Talk with Medieval art expert Cheryl Mitchell – Take a journey into art and history with an expert.

Dec. 7 (11-11:45 a.m.): Telling the Knight’s Tale: Family Storytime – This "Storytime" program, at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library (100 S. Center St.), is tailored for youngsters.

Dec. 10 (1-2 p.m.): Second Saturday Tours: Guided Tours in English and Spanish – Join a museum guide and get lost in the brilliant, unparalleled beauty of Medieval and Renaissance armor.

Dec. 11 (11:00 a.m.-noon): Sound Bath at the AMA – Join Arlington Yoga Center and the AMA for an hour of deep relaxation and restoration. arlingtonmuseum.org

Photo: dallascowboys.com

The 2023 Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic will be played on Jan. 2 at AT&T Stadium.

THIS ‘N DATA ...

CITY BUDGET VIDEO WINS FOUR MORE AWARDS

The City of Arlington’s FY2022 Lego Brick Budget Video has won four more prestigious awards.

The Office of Communication received an Emmy in the Political/ Government – Short/ Long Form category at the 2022 Lone Star Emmy Awards in early November. The video also received two first place awards in both Storytelling and Public Education from the Texas Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors, and received first place, the Award of Excellence for Public Education Video Programming from the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors.

The Lone Star Emmy’s are part of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

MATTEO SERRANO IS NAMED WINNER OF PRINCE SCHOLARSHIP

Matteo Serrano has been selected as the first recipient of the Francis Kobty Hospitality Scholarship.

The scholarship was created through a partnership among Prince Lebanese Grill, The Travel & Sports Legacy Foundation and the Tarrant County College Foundation. It was earmarked to go to a local student who displayed exceptional talent in the hospitality field.

Aziz Kobty, son of Francis and the restaurant's current manager, says Matteo checked all the boxes by which members of the scholarship committee assessed applicants and is a worthy initial honoree.

"Our scholarship is for homegrown talent. He or she must have graduated from AISD or MISD, attended the Dan Dipert Career Tech Center, enrolled in the Practicum program and attended the Local Culinary Program at TCC Southeast," Aziz says. "Mateo is an A.I.S.D kid from Day One. He attended Farrell Elementary, Barnett Junior High and graduated from Bowie High School class of 2022.

"Matteo now has a kitchen lead role at The Prince, and we are providing a full scholarship, including books, tuition, knives, chef gear, etc., and mentorship included."

Mateo dreams of getting into fine dining, eventually owning his own restaurant . He also says he wants to be the first Michelin Star Chef in Arlington.

RAISE YOUR HAND if you know that in one of its earlier incarnations the University of Texas at Arlington went by the name of Grubbs Vocational College. Keep that hand up if you have a Grubbs degree on your wall.

ARLINGTON BY THE NUMBERS

6.7

The percentage of persons under the age of five years living in Arlington, as of the most recent census.

Source: census.gov

32

The number of kilometers from the eastern edge of Arlington to the western edge of Dallas.

Source: kidadl.com

400 (+ or -)

The number of animal species that call River Legacy Park their home (or at least their temporary residence).

Source: kidadl.com

1

The number of toll roads (The 360 Tollway) transporting city drivers. Cagey veterans can recall when I-30 was "The Turnpike" and was a toll road.

Source: ntta.org

THE ARLINGTON Renegades selected Drew Plitt of Ball State and Kyle Sloter of Northern Colorado as their quarterbacks in the XFL draft held last month. The Renegades are scheduled to open their inaugural season on Feb. 18, 2023 as part of the new, eightteam XFL.

Officials representing Prince Lebanese Grill and the Travel & Sports Legacy Foundation present Mateo Serrano with a ceremonial check for a full scholarship. He is the first recipient of the Francis Kobty Hospitality Scholarship, given in memory of the late Prince Lebanese Grill founder.

BOWIE 18 PLUSS STUDENTS COME TO THE RESCUE TO FIND LOST RING

Agroup of Arlington ISD 18 PLUSS students saved the day recently when they found local photographer Dwayne Lee’s lost wedding ring. Lee made sure the students knew how much he appreciated them last month when he surprised them with a thank-you party complete with Chick-fil-A and custom-made t-shirts.

Lee took off his wedding ring to play golf at Waterchase Golf Club. But when he went to put it back on, it wasn’t with his wallet and keys like he thought. He looked "everywhere" – then he looked everywhere again the next day.

“At first I thought he was kidding,” Lee’s wife Barbara said when he broke the news. “At least we almost made it to 50 years,” she joked.

Enter the Arlington ISD 18 PLUSS students. These are special education students who have completed their high school requirements and are now in a one-to-three-year program that teaches job skills to help them start their careers.

One day each week, an 18 PLUSS class from Bowie High School goes to Waterchase to work. They detail carts, fix divots, pick up trash and do whatever needs to be done.

“They help us keep the golf course nice and tidy,” said Waterchase general manager Jason Heitschmidt.

Two days after the ring was lost, the 18 PLUSS class showed up for work at Waterchase where Heitschmidt told them about the missing ring. The students panned out to find it.

“They were on a mission,” Heitschmidt said.

After two hours of looking on the golf course, they decided to try the parking lot.

“What color is that ring?” one student named Isaac asked their teacher, Krista Zometa.

“It’s silver,” Zometa told Isaac. “And he reached out and said, ‘Like this?”

To say Lee was thrilled the students found the ring is an understatement, and he was determined to show them his appreciation. They had all made cards and written him notes to tell him how happy they were to have found his ring. Ryan Young wrote that he was glad to have saved their marriage.

So, when the students filed off their school bus at Waterchase Thursday, the Lees were waiting to surprise them with Chick-fil-A and t-shirts.

“This ring made it 49 years and 11 months when I lost it,” he said. “So, y’all reuniting it with me has really been a blessing and I really appreciate every one of you guys."

– Ryan Pierce, Senior Communications Specialist, Arlington ISD

#atpetofthemonth

Here is a picture of my dog, Leo. He’s a Border collie mix. We’ve had Leo since February 2020. We rescued him from the dog pound. I was going through your magazine, and I saw that you feature pets, and I was like, "let me send my dog's picture." I hope he makes the magazine.

CONSTRUCTION ON ACTIVE ADULT CENTER TO BEGIN

Construction is set to begin on the voter-approved Active Adult Center in January 2023.

The facility, expected to open in winter 2024, will offer programs and amenities for adults ages 50 and older. The City’s newest recreational facility will be located on the southeast corner of Green Oaks Boulevard between West Arkansas Lane and West Pioneer Parkway.

The final design for the Active Adult Center is complete. On Nov. 1, the City Council approved the guaranteed maximum price of the building’s construction at $55,259,733, provided by Manhattan Construction Group. Amenities of the recreation center are expected to include a full-court gymnasium, aquatics component for both water exercise and leisure, locker rooms, fitness area, walking track, and more.

– PaTina Clark

Image: City of Arlington

Photo: AISD

3 Scoops

1. Medical City Arlington was recognized with national awards for superior care in the Healthgrades 2023 Specialty Care Ratings & Awards. The hospital earned nine 5-Star awards and 15 awards in all.

2. The Grand Prairie Libraries now offers Mobile Printing. Mobile Print allows guests to send print jobs directly to a library Print Release station any time of day from anywhere they want. Prints may be picked up during library hours. Guests may submit print jobs either by using a URL, forwarding it via e-mail or using the free Printer On app.

3. The first Talent Showcase for the Arlington MLK Advancing the Dream Four-Day Celebration is coming Jan. 14, and now is the time to sign up for a chance to be part of it. The showcase is open to any Arlington ISD student or group of students, kindergarten through 12th grade. tinyurl.com/27mw7tzj

PLAY BALL!

MLB ALL-STAR GAME COMING TO TOWN

Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr. announced last month that Major League Baseball has awarded the 2024 All-Star Game presented by Mastercard and accompanying All-Star Week events to the Texas Rangers.

The announcement was made following the conclusion of the owners’ meetings in New York. The 2024 All-Star Game, which will be played on Tuesday, July 16th, will be Baseball’s 94th Midsummer Classic.

This marks the second time that the Rangers will host the All-Star Game, and it will be the first at Globe Life Field, the Club’s home since 2020. The Ballpark in Arlington held the 1995 Midsummer Classic, in which the National League earned a close 3-2 victory led by Jeff Conine’s go-ahead pinchhit home run in the eighth inning.

Commissioner Manfred said: “Major League Baseball is pleased to award the 2024 All-Star Game to the Rangers and the Cities of Arlington and Fort Worth, which presented a robust bid for All-Star Week. The Rangers stepped up under difficult circumstances, and Globe Life Field served as terrific host for the 2020 Postseason, including the World Series. We are excited to once again feature Baseball’s newest ballpark on a global stage next summer.”

“The Texas Rangers are honored to be awarded the 2024 All-Star Game,” said Rangers Majority Owner and Managing Partner Ray Davis. “With the opening of Globe Life Field in 2020 and the incredible development that continues to take place around the park, Arlington is an ideal location to host Major League Baseball and the Midsummer Classic. We want to thank Commissioner Rob Manfred, the State of Texas and the Governor’s Office, the Cities of Arlington and Fort Worth, and all of the dedicated officials from the Arlington Convention and Visitors Bureau and Visit Fort Worth for their efforts in bringing this showcase event to the area.”

“We are honored to be selected by MLB to host the All-Star Game once again,” Arlington Mayor Jim Ross said. “We look forward to welcoming the most talented baseball players to show off their skills in one of the best stadiums in the country. Globe Life Field and Arlington’s Entertainment District are ready to put on a spectacular 2024 All-Star Week for baseball fans from all over the world.”

The Rangers will follow the Seattle Mariners, who will welcome the 93rd Midsummer Classic to T-Mobile Park on July 11, 2023.

MMMC NAMES BROWN NEW VP OF OPERATIONS

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center recently named Crystal Brown its vice president of operations. Brown’s role will focus on general hospital operations with emphasis on patient satisfaction. She will oversee 13 departments including oversight of numerous construction projects.

Before joining Methodist Mansfield, Crystal served as Director of Operations for Baylor Scott and White The Heart Hospitals in Plano, Denton, and McKinney.

Crystal Brown

Empowering women to get back on their feet

Life has a way of sucking you in, whirling you around, and spitting you out with little compunction.

Ask Debra Rogers.

Early one morning, she woke to the realization of a life gone sideways: prostitution, drug use, countless arrests.

“I was at the bottom,” Rogers recalls.

She tried to get out only to be yanked back in. Start, stop, start, stop.

She felt isolated, hopeless, powerless.

That’s when she met Glen Herring, who at the time was a deacon in charge of the Benevolence Ministry at Wood Chapel.

He told her about a non-profit organization that helps women get back on their feet by providing job skills, social skills, and building – or rather, rebuilding – their self-worth, one encouraging word, one learned skill at a time.

“We teach women to fish” is how Julie Forrester put it.

the job market, whether they are entering for the first time or re-entering,” Forrester says. “Our personal development classes focus more on confidence, communication styles, money management, and more personal-related items. And as a Christian organization, we have Bible study.”

CWJC offers day and evening classes, which can be a bit much for those already working full-time.

Most women are middle- to late-age, and some have had well-paying jobs and college educations.

Yet “life has a way of changing,” Forrester says. “So here they are, in their fifties and sixties. How in the world are they going to compete with the youngsters out there? The positive is that people at that age have a great work ethic. They need a little boost in confidence and building relationships and skills.

“Sometimes that can be difficult because you have that old life pulling you outside these walls. Then you go back into the environment that got you in trouble in the first place. If you are not strong, that would be a difficult situation. Our role is to encourage getting out of the life cycle permanently.”

Kenneth Perkins

Forrester took over as director of the Christian Women’s Job Corps of Greater Arlington (CWJC) in 2009. The organization is one of those hidden gems, quietly fulfilling its aim of finding independence and acceptance for women in the marketplace.

Of course, that comes from working from the inside out. This explains the fish reference straight out of the Bible, although it has been re-articulated as secular.

Give a man a fish, you have fed him for a day. Teach him to fish, you have fed him for a lifetime.

Since its inception in 2005, CWJC has “graduated” 671 women through a 10-week, tuition-free education program with two streams: job skills training and personal development.

Participants learn Microsoft Office Quick Books, resume writing, and job interviewing skills in job skills training. A CWJC-run boutique provides business clothing for participants.

“That area of our training focuses on preparing women for

Rogers is a CWJC success story. She has a day job and then heads off to evening classes. She wants to be an administrative assistant – and a CWJC mentor.

CWJC offers a mentoring program with Bible study. The Bible study curriculum is presented in a way that focuses on God’s love for each woman, no matter their background or life circumstances.

“Julie hired me to be the office assistant there, and I got a chance to talk to the women joining the program,” Rogers says. “I was the one who gave them the test and encouraged them. I was there in the building. My door was always open if they had any questions.”

Rogers finally found herself in a place of empowerment while in a position to empower others.

“That’s what is so great about CWJC,” she says. “We, as women, have such self-doubt. They want to be there to help, to get you through it and on your way. That’s what they did for me. What a blessing.”

Kenneth Perkins has been a contributing writer for Arlington Today for nearly a decade. He is a freelance writer, editor and photographer.

Julie Forrester (inset) is director of the Christian Women's Job Corps of Greater Arlington. CWJC offers an array of services to help women find their way out of troubled lives, including a clothing boutique.

40 under 40 presentation 40 under 40 presentation

SNAPSHOTS OF ARLINGTON/MANSFIELD/GRAND PRAIRIE AREA NEWSMAKERS

Elena Fernandez accepts her award from officials of the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce and Arlington Today magazine, which partnered to create the 40 under 40 project.

Douglas Cooper accepts his award.

Dr. Colton Strawser is honored as a 40 under 40 selection for 2022.

Amira Kobty and her son, Aziz Kobty, who was one of the 2022 honorees.

The honorees who attended the presentation introducing the initial roster of 40 under 40 honorees gathered for a group shot.

Maggie Campbell poses with one of the 40 under 40 honorees, Katie Gosa.

C onsidered a leading destination for the biggest and best sports events and concerts, Arlington is also the home to one of the most celebrated holiday markets in the U.S. - Texas Christkindl Market.

Tens of thousands of people have visited the market in the Arlington Entertainment District over the last 12 years to get a taste of the German markets of Nuremberg and Arlington’s sister city, Bad Königshofen.

Presented this year by Reliant Commercial Paving, the market is a unique shopping experience featuring an exclusive Kathe Wohlfahrt boutique

Texas Christkindl Market

where guests can shop for traditional handcrafted gifts and collectibles like ornaments and schwibbogen like those from the iconic Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Village.

However, this annual event isn’t just about the shopping, but all the

ingredients that come together to create a recipe for a memorable holiday experience you’ll want to enjoy every holiday.

St. Nikolaus at the Texas Christkindl Market

Guests who know will share there is just something magical about THE St. Nikolaus at the Texas Christkindl Market. Also borrowed from the German holiday tradition, St. Nick, adorned in a beautiful rich velvety tapestry robe, his wonderfully long genuine white beard, and the time he takes to connect with each child, makes a visit with him a must for everyone at the market (the only place you’ll find St. Nik.) Guests are also invited to drop off wish lists letters to St. Nikolaus at the special red mailbox at the market. Letters submitted in the mailbox before Dec. 10 will also receive a response from St. Nick just in time for the holidays!

Kinder Kids Root Beer Garden by Le Theatre de Marionnette

While the market always includes fun for the children, new this year to the market is the Kinder Kids Root Beer Garden.

Presented by Le Theatre de Marionnette, led by John Hopkins, he and his team have developed an interactive experience where families will enjoy Christmas-themed puppetry, play reindeer games, taste festive treats including many root beers, create their own Giant Snowglobe Photo, and even

get to take part in a painting workshop for activities - all for just one access pass (additional fee to the free admission to the event.)

However, Hopkins isn’t a stranger to Arlington – he actually started his career at Six Flags Over Texas and later opened his puppetry theatre in 1993. After multiple years of making live shows come to life at the amusement park, he would go on to make his mark in the business at PBS and hundreds of other high-level performing arts events across the region.

Festive Foods from JJ's Schnitzel Haus

It’s hard to visit a holiday market without talking about the food! From must-haves like bratwursts, kartoffel puffers, and the legendary hot spiced wine, gluhwein, JJ's Schnitzel Haus cooks up nothing but delicious fare throughout the 30 days of the market! But don’t take our word for it - The Cooking Channel recently featured all the goodness of this local concessionaire in its show “Carnival Eats.” Jason and his Andrea, who have been a part of the market for several years, are always smiling and ready to fill everyone with holiday cheer!

Live Music Entertainment

Can you hear that? It’s not just the sounds of cheering and oohs and ahhs that guests will encounter at the market - it’s also the music! With the beautiful sounds from our famous friends at the Swiss Horns Quartet. If the sounds from the alpenhorns don’t make an impression, the size of these largerthan-life, iconic instruments will be a scene steeler when they take the stage at the Texas Christkindl Market.

Texas Christkindl Market

WHAT

Texas Christkindl Market 2022

WHEN

November 25 - December 23, 2022

11 am - 8 pm LOCATION

North Plaza at Globe Life Field

Free admission to the market (costs for photo packages with St. Nick, Kinder Kids activities, and vendor shopping additional.)

* Parking available for free based on District events and activities

For more information including vendors, sponsors, events, and more, please visit www.txChristkindlMarket.com and connect with us on social media at @TXChristkindlMarket.

*Some of the vendors at the Texas Christkindl Market include:

• Käthe Wohlfahrt

• JJ's Schnitzel Haus

• Sawdust & Bullets

• Squishables

• Sister Cities of Arlington, Texas

• Victoria Chefina

• Beauty by Apothecary

• Grandma Cleda’s Gourmet Candy & Gifts

• FlorVino Flowery Winery

• Texas Rib Rangers

The most current list of vendors are available on TxChristkindlMarket.com.

And none of this holiday fun would be possible without the community and our sponsors including:

• Reliable Commercial Paving

• Viridian by Johnson Development

• Frost Bank

• Mercury Chophouse Arlington

• Arlington Highlands

• Methodist Mansfield Medical Center

• Linebarger Attorneys at Law

• Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital

• Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau

• City of Arlington

2022 Editors' Choice Awards

Salads

EATS DRINKS MERRIMENT

Brunch

Restaurant506 at The Sanford House

Burger J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill

Coffee House

Grounds and Gold Co.

Craft Beer

On Tap

Date Night

Texas Live!

Dining Experience

Piccolo Mondo

Fine Dining

Cut & Bourbon

Game Day Meal

No Frills Grill & Sports

Bar

Happy Hour

The Tipsy Oak

International Cuisine

Prince Lebanese Grill

Lunch

MaryLou’s

Music Venue

Levitt Pavilion

Pizza

Moni’s Pasta & Pizza

Place to Meet

Nehemiah Coffee Co.

Salata

Steak

Mercury Chophouse

Sweet Tooth Specialties

Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery

Tex-Mex

El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill

HOME LIFE

Attorney

Jim Ross Law Group

Attorney - Divorce

Stephanie A. Foster

Attorney - Elder Law

Karen Schroeder

Attorney - Family Law

Donna J. Smiedt

Attorney - Personal Injury

Roger “Rocky” Walton

Attorney - Real Estate

Harris Cook, LLP

Builder

Mansfield Custom Homes

Exterior Projects

Baldi Gardens

Financial Advisor

Jack Webb - Edward

Jones Investments

Financial Institution

Texas Trust Credit Union

Financial Services

Frost Bank

Credit Union

EECU

Insurance

Al Clark

Pet Care

Pixie Paws Pet Palace

Pet Culinary Care

Three Dog Bakery

Real Estate

Ebby Halliday Realtors

Remodeler

Medford Design Build

Retirement Community

The Orchards at Arlington Highlands

Roofing

Frazier Roofs & Gutters

Veterinarian

Richter Animal Hospital & Pet Resort

STOREFRONT

Antiques

C&W Antiques

Appliances

Texas Appliance

Boutique

Ashlaroo’s

Flooring

Hiltons Flooring

Florist

Urban Country Flower Co.

Furniture

Ivan Smith Furniture

Gifts

Anything Goes

Jewelry

Diamonds and Designs

Shopping Experience

Gracie Lane

WELLNESS

Allergist

Cure Allergy Clinic

Audiologist

Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids

Chiropractic Care / Wellness

Dr. Kenyon Godwin

Cosmetic Dentistry

Dr. Ravi Doctor

Emergency Room

Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital

Family Dentistry

Dr. Jackilyn Dang

Family Physician

Dr. An Wong

Hospital

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center

Lasik

Kleiman I Evangelista Eye Centers of Texas

OB / GYN

Dr. Joan Bergstrom

Oncologist

Dr. Alfred DiStefano (Texas Oncology)

Optometrist

Gayle Karanges

(First Eye Care)

Orthodontics

Drs Alexander

Orthodontics

Pediatric Dentist

FunDentist Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry

Pharmacy

Randol Mill Pharmacy

Podiatry

Arlington Foot & Ankle Center

Spine Surgery

Texas Spine Associates

Urologist

Dr. Justin Lee

(Urology Partners of North Texas)

PERSONAL SERVICES/ LEISURE

Customer Service

Wade Family Funeral

Home

Dance Studio

Miss Persis Studio of Dance

Event Venue

Texas Live!

Golf Course

Texas Rangers Golf Club

Hair Salon

Maren Karsen Aveda Salon

Hotel

Live! by Loews-Arlington

Natural Setting

River Legacy Parks

Photographer

Bruce Maxwell

Skin Care

Great Skin Spa & Facial Club

Spa

Spa at The Sanford House

Steak

Mercury Chophouse

You love the best-intown view. You crave the delicious cuisine. You appreciate the impeccable service. And now you know why, for the fourth consecutive year, Mercury Chophouse has earned an Editors’ Choice award.

In less than half a decade, 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 smallplate selections, Mercury Chophouse has drawn in the happy hour crowd, as well.

Add it all up, and the sum is, literally, an award winning restaurant.

Mercury Chophouse

2221 E Lamar Blvd., Suite 910

817-381-1157

mercurychophouse.com

Dining Experience

Piccolo

Mondo

Prince Lebanese Grill

Mondo has landed a spot on our Editor's Choice roster for a variety of reasons. But here's the one that matters most: Owner Antonio Capaccioli knows Italian cuisine – and how to present it to customers in a virtually perfect way.

Piccolo

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. That means great food, of course, but also attention to details that make venturing to Piccolo Mondo a true dining experience.

“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.

Piccolo Mondo

829 E. Lamar Blvd.

817-265-9174

piccolomondo.com

While the food at Prince Lebanese Grill is on a par with that at any eatery anywhere, there’s another element that has earned the restaurant a place on our Editors' Choice roster.

Prince is an Arlington institution in practically every sense of the word. From the time its founder, the late Francis “Prince” Kobty, first opened the doors the eatery has been founded on three principals: great food, unmatched service, a commitment to making sure the community Prince Lebanese Grill serves feels like it is part of his extended family.

The restaurant is now managed by his immediate family: his wife Amira, his son Aziz and his daughter Elizabeth. Collectively, they continue to deliver greatness on all the original fronts.

And, just recently, they kept the Prince spirit alive by selecting, in conjunction with the Travel & Sports Legacy Foundation, the initial winner of the Francis Kobty Hospitality Scholarship (see page 14).

Prince Lebanese Grill

502 W. Randol Mill Road

817-469-1811

princelebanesegrill.com

Burger J. Gilligan's Bar & Grill

When a restaurant has been around for more than four decades, it's a given that it is considered one of the city's premier destinations for culinary and social pleasures. Well ...

J. Gilligan's Bar & Grill can make both claims, in addition to one more: It's a "no brainer" multi-time selection to our Editors' Choice roster.

We love J. Gilligan’s burgers (and everything else on the menu). And we'd also like to note that the food and service are great, and there’s always a game or several on the televisions scattered inside and out on the patio, so you can cheer for your favorite team alongside friends.

J. Gilligan's is the ideal 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 the proverbial “more.”

J. Gilligan's Bar & Grill

400 E. Abram St. 817-274-8561

jgilligans.com

International Cuisine

MaryLou’s has been a staple on our Readers' Choice All Star team, and now it is making its debut on our Readers' Choice roster.

Located in the heart of Downtown Historic Mansfield on Broad Street between Walnut Creek and Main Street, the restaurant and coffee shop operates out of the J.H. Harrison historic home built in 1915. MaryLou’s offers a unique experience and ambiance not found in new construction buildings.

Guests can enjoy the comfort of the indoor seating spaces or sit outside on the shaded, wrap-around porch and take in the peaceful atmosphere while having breakfast, lunch and/ or a cup of their specialty coffees with house-made 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 St., Mansfield 817-473-1989

marylous.net

Arlington Mayor Jim Ross, founder of the acclaimed firm, Jim Ross Law Group, PC, has another accolade to add to his list of accomplishments: He’s an Editor’s Choice winner for the third straight year.

The former Marine, Arlington policeman and Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) task force officer heads 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.

Ross’ professional experience has quite a story behind it. Notably, he partnered with famed environmental activist Erin Brockovich to 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.

“It’s often said that ‘no man is above the law.’ In America, that’s the truth," Ross says. "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.”

Jim Ross Law Group

2221 E. Lamar Blvd., #800 817-275-4100

jimrosslaw.com

Attorney

Jim Ross

LLP

David L. Cook, who in recent years has won elections for Mayor and State Representative, adds another victory with our nod to his law firm, Harris Cook, LLP, as the Editors' Choice in the Attorney-Real Estate category.

The firm has built a reputation for professionalism and effectiveness in a wide range of legal matters. The practice features a highlyskilled team composed of Cook, Patrick L. Dooley, Paul J. Johnson, Larry L. Fowler, Jr., Cynthia L. Hill, Lin Morrisett, Marc A. Stach, Arin K. Schall and Wesly C. Maness.

Harris Cook is an AV Rated Firm, which represents the Gold Standard in attorney ratings, and features a wide depth of experience and talent across multiple practice areas.

Harris Cook, LLP

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

Attorney-Divorce Stephanie A. Foster

Stephanie Foster has earned her second consecutive Editors' Choice award in the AttorneyDivorce category.

We have long been impressed with Foster's 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.

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. And we applaud her for that.

Law Offices of Stephanie A. Foster, P.C. 4214 Little Road, Suite 1000 817-277-2805

StephanieFosterLawyer.com

AttorneyPersonal lnjury Roger 'Rocky' Walton

Accolades of this type – of many types, actually – are nothing new to Rocky Walton, an icon in local legal circles. The founder of the Law Firm of Roger “Rocky” Walton has been serving the Arlington community since 1975 and is a consistent selection to the Arlington Today Readers’ Choice All Star team.

In 1987 Walton’s firm began handling nothing but personal injury and wrongful death claims. In 1994, after a lot of hard work, Walton 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 recertified every five years.

The Law Firm of Roger "Rocky" Walton, P.C. 2310 W. Interstate 20, Suite 200 817-576-8219

rockyywaltoninjurylawyers.com

Attorney-Family Law Donna J. Smiedt

An Arlington Today Editors' Choice selection each of the past three years, 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 involving the prospect of divorce.

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 important area.

The firm can address a plethora of legal concerns, from 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.

Collectively, that outstanding service makes Smiedt an – and our – awardwinning attorney.

The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt

3216 W. Arkansas Lane 817-539-6569

arlingtondivorces.com

David L. Cook

Attorney-Elder Law

Karen Schroeder

Aback-to-back Editor’s Choice in the category of Attorney-Elder Law, Karen Schroeder, is a fourthgeneration 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.

At her practice in Mansfield Schroeder 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 problemsolver who serves clients’ needs with legal professionalism and a commitment to individualized attention.

Karen Schroeder Attorney at Law

550 N. Walnut Creek, Suite 110, Mansfield 817-842-0220

karenschroderlaw.com

Real Estate

Ebby Halliday Realtors ®

As it closes in on eight decades of providing stellar, state-of-the-industry real estate service to buyers and sellers of local homes, multi-time Editors' Choice winner Ebby Halliday Realtors® continues to uphold a tradition of service and client commitment that is rooted in a remarkable story – and that is virtually unmatched anywhere.

It all began in 1945, when one bold woman, Ebby Halliday, parlayed her wisdom, generosity, business acumen and endurance into what is today the No. 1 residential real estate brokerage in Texas.

Today, Ebby Halliday has more than 30 offices covering more than 12,000 square miles of North Texas, East Texas and Oklahoma.

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.

And, now, the collective local Ebby Halliday family is implementing all the principles of success that made the company founder a household name throughout the Southwestern region of the United State and taking the company to new heights.

As well as, we are excited to note – to yet another Editors' Choice selection.

Ebby Halliday Realtors ®

1204 W. Abram St. 817-654-3737

ebby.com

Pet Culinary Care

Three Dog Bakery

Three Dog Bakery is a back-to-back Editors' Choice selection, which pays tribute to a revolutionary idea dating to 1989. That's when the company was founded on a principle of providing 100% natural, wholesome, human-quality ingredients for pets.

At the local locations owner Kim Harmon has created an inviting and exciting place for pets and their owners.

“We specialize in allnatural, fresh-baked 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 own pups," Harmon says. "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

threedogs.com

Financial Services

Frost Bank

In addition to earning All Star status in our Readers' Choice poll each of the past six years, Frost Bank is now a multi-time Editors Choice selection

It's easy to see why.

The company is deeply rooted in community service and outstanding care for its customers.

Founded in 1868, Frost provides a full range of banking, investments and insurance services across Texas. With a philosophy that emphasizes building long-term relationships and treating everyone with integrity, caring and excellence, Frost Bank has earned numerous awards for customer service to consumers and businesses, and it is one of the more locally philanthropic financial institutions in the area.

Frost Bank

Arlington

101 E. Abram St., Suite 160

3801 Matlock Road

1881 Ballpark Way

5500 W. Arkansas Lane

Mansfield

1000 N. Walnut Creek

Drive

frostbank.com

Ivan Smith

Furniture

If you’re in the market for furniture – any kind of furniture – you're likely to find what you want at Ivan Smith Furniture in Mansfield.

Ivan Smith Furniture offers well known brand names like Mayo, Hooker, Flexsteel, Craftmaster, Bernhardt, Klaussner, Riverside, Stanley, and more – giving you the big city selection while offering hometown service.

Company products feature designs and pieces in contemporary styles and textures to add depth and detail to your space. The store offers completely customizable options for upholstered sofas and chairs, power recliners, and sofas.

Ivan Smith Furniture also has living room furniture selections that include love seats, recliners, and complete sofa sets. In terms of dining room furniture, the company sells dining tables and dinette sets, as well as stylish home bar furniture. It also has an extensive collection of bedroom furniture for adults and children, including durable bed sets and mattresses. In addition, Ivan Smith’s stellar staff sells office furniture, entertainment centers and more.

Ivan Smith Furniture

451 N. US Hwy. 287, Mansfield 682-222-1312

ivansmith.com

Antiques C&W Antiques

Even in months that don't begin with the letter "D"

C&W Antique's Grand Prairie showroom is a veritable Santa's workshop for grownups.

But Co-proprietors Patrick Walsh and Jim Carpenter really rev up the festive atmosphere during this time of year. As a result, we've chosen this special holiday season to honor this special vendor.

For those keeping track of the Editors' Choice honorees at home, we've made it a Christmas tradition, of sorts, to tip our hats to this unique retail mecca.

When it comes to antiques, C&W Antiques is in a class by itself in this region. Its showroom features unique, rare and interesting furniture and accessories not found at most stores stateside.

Carpenter and Walsh routinely create an inviting ambiance with fragrant Market candles, music and vignettes of old-world rooms that stimulate the senses and inspire clients eager not only to visit but to return.

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 705-706 817-637-7637

candwantiques.com

Furniture

Appliances

Texas Appliance

When it comes to amenities for the home and yard, Texas Appliance is virtually without peer in this area.

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

The 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 freestanding appliances in the state of Texas.

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. Its experienced staff of contract sales representatives 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.

Texas Appliance

Arlington Showroom: 1500 I-20 East

Pantego Outlet: 3401 W. Pioneer Pkwy. 817-299-2800

txappliance.com

Gifts

Anything Goes

Whether it is recognition as an Arlington Today Readers' Choice All Star or as an Editors' Choice, Anything Goes always seems to find a place of prominence when award season comes around.

That has been the case since 2012, when Mary Davis’ dream of creating an eclectic gift shop became a reality as the doors first opened at 2504 W. Park Row in Pantego.

Over the past decade, Anything Goes has grown from 1,200 square feet to almost 4,000 square 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. We wholeheartedly agree.

Anything Goes

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

anythinggoesgiftshop.com

Shopping Experience

Gracie Lane

For the third straight year, we suggest that when you set out on a search for the ideal shopping experience you be sure to enter "Gracie Lane" into your GPS device.

In a nutshell, it is the “go to” destination in Arlington for items both fun and functional.

Since opening in 2014, Gracie Lane has rapidly become recognized as the Arlington area’s premier destination for clothing, jewelry, home decor, gifts and more. Manager Mary Macken says the real key to Gracie Lane’s success, though, is the relationships she and the Gracie Lane team of friendly, enthusiastic staffers build: “I believe our philosophy of treating every person that walks through our doors as a family member really resonates with our customers.”

She’ll get no argument here. In fact, she’ll get a nice plaque noting the greatness of her company.

Gracie Lane

4720 S. Cooper St. 817-468-5263

gracielanecollection.com

Flooring Hiltons Flooring

Hiltons Flooring is a multi-time winner of Arlington Today Readers' Choice and Editors' Choice awards – and with good reason: It's a floor/ bathroom fixture/counter top haven.

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

The team at Hiltons Flooring is devoted to providing the best and largest selection of carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile and stone in a friendly, comfortable and helpful atmosphere. Hiltons carries most name brands of flooring and also granite, marble, quartz and quartzite counter tops, back splash and showers, making it the ideal place to shop for practically any home improvement project.

Hiltons Flooring

2800 W. Division St., Suite D 817-461-5189

hiltonsflooring.com

OB/GYN

Dr. Joan Bergstrom

Dr. Joan Bergstrom, founder of Women’s Health Services, has earned Editors' Choice distinction for the third straight year. She 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.

Womens Health Services

1001 N. Waldrop, Suite 505 817-277-9415

5005 S. Cooper St., Suite 275

womenshealthservices.com

& Hearing Aids

An Editor’s Choice winner for the third year in a row, Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids has been virtually unmatched in achieving its honorable mission of “helping people hear better” – for more than three and a half decades.

“There are not many audiology practices in the North Texas area that can say they’ve been helping people hear better for over 35 years,” says Dr. Melissa Danchak, owner of the practice. “We believe that the hearing health care experience is about making folks feel confident in their decision to address their hearing health care needs first and foremost. We believe our patients feel confident in the services we provide – they know we are walking with them on their journey to better hearing!”

Dr. Danchak began working at Kos/Danchak Audiology in 1997 and purchased the practice five years later. Her 25 years of experience helping those with hearing challenges in the Arlington and surrounding communities underscore her passion for providing unparalleled care and service for her patients, which is on full display with the hundreds of online reviews they have been sharing for years.

“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," Dr. Danchak says. "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.”

Pediatric Dentist FunDentist Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry

F unDentist Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry has a long-established reputation for offering comprehensive pediatric dental care in a friendly, inviting, and professional environment.

The practice provides a variety of dental treatments that are comfortable, safe, and effective. FunDentist is equipped with the latest dental technology, so its team of dentists and support staff can provide complete care for your little one's smile.

The office staff will gladly work with you to make sure that appointments are scheduled at your convenience – yet another reason FunDentist makes its patients smile.

Fundentist Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry

North Arlington: 801 W. Road to Six Flags, Suite 101

817-459-1313

South Arlington: 4220 Little Road

817-478-2300

Central Arlington: 3101 S. Center St., #101

817-466-7057

Mansfield: 2300 Matlock

Road, #28

817-539-0500

fundentist.com

Cosmetic Dentistry

Ravi Doctor, DDS,

For more than 32 years Ravi Doctor DDS, DABOI, DICOI, has been a leader in dentistry in Arlington, and this year he has been named both an Arlington Today Readers' Choice All Star and Editors' Choice selection.

Ravi Doctor is the only Board Certified Oral Implantologist in Arlington, and his practice focuses on dental implants, gum rejuvenation, orthodontics, and cosmetic dentistry.

The practice's current office near the University of Texas at Arlington campus provides state-of-the-art technology, and Dr. Doctor and his team offer sedation to all of their patients to ensure maximum comfort during their respective procedures.

Dr. Doctor's staff members are all phlebotomists, trained in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and have advanced surgical and emergency training.

Investing in the growth of his team has allowed a culture of excellence and precision to be born and has led to the top-tier care patients receive.

Dr. Doctor takes more than 200 hours of continuing education every year on top of teaching multiple surgical courses around the world. This keeps him at the leading edge of advancements in technique and technology to optimize patient diagnosis and treatment.

Ravi Doctor, DDS, DABOI, CICOI

Arlington Dental Professionals

1009 W. Mitchell, Suite C 817-274-8667

www.docdds.com

Urologist Dr. Justin Lee

Urology Partners of North Texas

Urology Partners of North Texas is a family of more than three dozen skilled and compassionate physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners bolstered by an amazing support team. For the third year in a row, one of the practice's physicians, Dr. Justin Lee, has been tabbed as our Editors' Choice in the Urologist category.

Dr. Lee is part of a team that has clinics in Arlington, Mansfield, Fort Worth, Alliance, HEB, Irving and Weatherford, delivering exceptional, timely and affordable patient care.

UPNT helps men and women overcome kidney, bladder and prostate cancers, as well as assisting patients reclaim their sexual function and put incontinence, painful kidney stones, UTI infections, and so many other conditions behind them.

Urology Partners of North Texas

Arlington: 5005 S. Cooper St., Suite 250

Mansfield: 309 Regency Parkway, Suite 103 866-367-8768 • upnt.com

DABOI, DICOI

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, a 262- bed acute care hospital, has been proud to serve the community for more than 15 years while it continues to expand to meet patients’ needs.

Here are just a few of the hospital’s recent enhancements: Methodist Mansfield achieved Magnet® recognition for the second time with 12 exemplary findings. This is 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, Level III Neonatal Facility, and a Level III Maternal Facility with sub-specialty perinatal care, signifying our proficiency in managing high-risk births.

Additionally, the hospital collaborated with Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing to open the first Texas Tech University System satellite campus in Tarrant County at the hospital. The first class of nurses will graduate in December. The school offers a BS in nursing to help mitigate the critical nursing shortage in North Texas.

Moreover, we are also thankful to the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation for helping nursing students gain access to high-quality education, real life clinical training and career development opportunities in our community. Methodist Mansfield is also home to The Breast Center, which offers a beautiful, tranquil office with a fellowship trained breast radiologist, advanced breast imaging technology services, women’s health services, and bone density scans, all under one roof.

The hospital is set to finish out the fifth floor in patient Tower B and is planning further expansion after the New Year.

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center

72700 E. Broad St., Mansfield • 682-242-2000 methodisthealthsystem.org/methodist-mansfieldmedical-center

After seeing our readers give so much loving to Randol Mill Pharmacy – it has been voted an All Star five straight years – we decided it's high time for our editorial staff to jump on the band wagon.

Randol Mill Pharmacy has been an Arlington staple since 1965. Its 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 fit 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 more than 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, as well as gifts galore.

Chiropractic Care/ Wellness

Dr. Kenyon Godwin

Dr. Kenyon Godwin, founder of Active Family Wellness Center, has been named to our Editors' Choice roster for the fourth consecutive year.

Dr. Godwin founded his practice in 2010, and six years later, it was named the Arlington Chamber of Commerce’s Veteran-owned Small Business of the Year. Earlier this year he was named Chairman of the Chamber.

Dr. Godwin's practice has two offices to better serve patients, while offering an effective lifestyle modification program utilizing Functional Medicine. This program incorporates the best of wellness: Chiropractic, Nutrition, Detox, Comprehensive labs, Supplements, Fitness, Mentorship and Meditation / Prayer.

Active Family Wellness Center

South Arlington: 4927 S. Collins St., Suite 105

North Arlington: 4120 N. Collins St., #200 817-557-2770

txwellnessdoc.com

Emergency Room

Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital

An Editor’s Choice selection for the fourth consecutive year, Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital offers full emergency services in an exemplary and awardwinning fashion.

The emergency department is staffed by independent, full-time physicians who are board certified in emergency medicine and by nurses certified in emergency care and advanced life support. Many Texas Health Arlington Memorial nurses have also earned the title of Certified Emergency Nurse and have completed the Trauma/ Nurse Core Curriculum, as well as training in Pediatric Advanced Life Support. Emergency physicians on the medical staff at Texas Health Arlington Memorial and the nurses and technicians all participate in ongoing continuing education programs to keep abreast of current trends and developments in emergency care.

A little more than five years ago, the hospital began an innovative outreach program in collaboration with the Arlington Fire Department to help hundreds of patients with chronic conditions avoid emergency room visits.

As a Level IV Trauma Center, Cycle III Chest Pain Center and Primary Stroke Center, the medical center offers the communities of Arlington, Kennedale, Pantego, Mansfield and Grand Prairie advanced lifesaving care close to home. With advanced medical treatments and an experienced staff that provides compassionate care, the hospital’s mission is to improve the health of the people in the communities it serves.

Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital

800 W. Randol Mill Road 817-960-6100

texashealth.org/arlington

Podiatry

Arlington Foot & Ankle Center

Amulti-time Editors' Choice selection, Arlington Foot and Ankle Center, a part of StrideCare, has been a leading provider of comprehensive foot and ankle care for more than 35 years.

The practice now features a roster of dedicated, experienced and Board Certified physicians of podiatric surgery that includes John R. Landry, DPM; Ryan Lawrence, DPM; Joe Southerland, DPM; and David Warren, DPM.

The practice makes it easy for patients to access care. Committed to the use of the latest cutting-edge technologies, the team of physicians use methods such as digital X-rays, CT scanners, 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, bunions, flat feet, neoropathy, plantar fasciitis and gout to injuries, sprains, fractures, diabetesrelated issues and ankle replacement.

Arlington Foot & Ankle Center 400 W. Arbrook Blvd., Suite 201 817-467-1990

footanklecenters.com

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Spa, Brunch

The Sanford House

As was the case in Readers’ Choice balloting a few months ago, when The Sanford House earned All Star status in multiple categories, our editorial voters hold the local treasure in high esteem. That's why we tabbed it for recognition as both our favorite day spa and the best place for brunch.

The gold standard for personal pampering, Spa at The Sanford House features an extensive menu of services for both men and women. Within a 2,600-squarefoot structure, the spa has seven treatment rooms for massages, facials, body wraps, microdermabrasion, waxing, and hand and foot treatments.

Meanwhile, Restaurant506 at The Sanford House's brunch has earned multiple awards – and a large and loyal following, largely because of its delicious weekend brunches.

General Manager Valerie Landry proudly notes that the family-owned-and-operated inn has been a staple in Arlington for more than two and a half decades. Since Landry came on board in 2008, she has worked with her mother and The Sanford House owner, Joan Bergstrom, to create “House Hosted” events that attract even more visitors.

This year the management team at The Sanford House celebrated its 25th anniversary by performing 25 acts of kindness for the Greater Arlington community throughout the year.

The Sanford House

506 N. Center St. 817-861-2129

TheSanfordHouse.com

Golf Course

Texas Rangers Golf Club

Since opening in 2019, Texas Rangers Golf Club has become a mecca for local players. And why not?

It is one of the finest public courses in Texas, as well as the home of the Korn Ferry Tour’s annual Veritex Bank Championship.

The course earned “Best New Course” acclaim by the Dallas Morning News in 2020, and was also named the second-best renovation in the world by Golf Inc., in 2019.

The fairways are broad and playable, and the greens are large and golfer friendly. The overall scale of the course is “Texas Big,” and the 111,000 square feet of sand bunkers frame each hole nicely.

Texas Rangers Golf Club stretches to 7,010 yards for low-handicap golfers and potential collegiate events, and features four sets of tees to ensure a great playing experience for golfers of all ability levels. A large driving range, coupled with an expansive practice putting green and short-game facility, and the regionally renowned Home Plate Restaurant make Texas Rangers Golf Club a great place for all golfers.

Texas Rangers Golf Club

701 Brown Blvd.

817-275-5941

texas-rangers-golf-club.com

Skin Care Great Skin Spa & Facial Club

Amulti-time recipient of the Editors' Choice award, Great Skin Spa & Facial Club is the brainchild of owner Brenda Cureton Hunt, who began her career in the beauty business as the first U.S. franchisee of Canadian-based FACES Cosmetics.

She developed Great Skin Spa & Facial Club in Arlington more than a decade ago, and the company has continued to grow and gain notoriety as an exceptional day spa and skin care provider.

Great Skin offers 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. Services run the gamut, from microneedling, non-needle lip plumping and enhancement to contouring, cellulite and fat melting treatments, and more.

Through the Facial Club, Cureton Hunt and her team make it affordable for clients to care for their skin in the spa and at home.

Great Skin Spa & Facial Club

3851 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd. 817-478-2114

greatskin4you.com

David Warren, DPM John Landr y, DPM Joe Southerland, DPM Ryan Lawrence, DPM

An Editors' Choice selection for the second consecutive year, Bruce Maxwell is an awardwinning photographer whose work frequently appears on the pages of this and many other area publications.

While he now plies his craft as the owner of Bruce E. Maxwell Photography, he was long known throughout the region as a staff member at the Arlington office of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, where his work assignments took him all over town.

Bruce E. Maxwell Photography is a full-service studio, meaning he is your "go to guy" for weddings, family and school portraits, corporate head shots, events, architecture shoots and much more.

Given that he shoots just about everything, he gets to go just about everywhere, and there's a good chance you've not only gotten to meet him but to become his friend.

Bruce E. Maxwell

Photography

817-542-3981

brucemaxx77@yahoo.com

Live! by LoewsArlington

Customer Service Wade Funeral Home

An Editor’s Choice Customer Service category winner for the third time, Wade Funeral Home has years of experience combined with a highly professional, compassionate family and staff that have comforted area residents for nearly two decades.

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 a staff of fellow funeral directors and advanced planning specialists who are dedicated to providing compassion and emotional support to all their clients.

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 Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors Association, and Toy Train Collector’s Association.

Amy is the marketing director for Wade Funeral Home. She is very active with the community, serving 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.

Wade Funeral Home

4140 W. Pioneer Pkwy. 817-274-9233

wadefamilyfuneralhome.com

It's not difficult to understand why Live! by Loews-Arlington has found a spot on our Editors' Choice roster. After all, it's nestled among the Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium, the Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Field, and the Esports Stadium & Expo Center, putting its guests at the center of the city's Entertainment District.

But there's plenty more to love. For starters, there's the expansive lobby that is a veritable work of art –and which just happens to open a path leading to its next-door neighbor, Texas Live!, where entertainment options constantly beckon hotel guests.

Speaking of the guests, they rave about getting to kick back and relax beside the stunning terrace pool – that is, when they're not taking refuge in the bar with remarkable views of AT&T Stadium. In addition, Live! by Loews-Arlington has a long list of services and amenities designed to elevate every stay, including in-room dining, a business center, and a 24-hour fitness center.

Live! by Loews-Arlington

1600 E Randol Mill Road

682-277-4900

loewshotels.com/live-byloews-arlington-texas

Photographer

Bruce Maxwell

Since 1961

THANK YOU MANSFIELD!

A Ferrari like no other

Story and photos by Richard Greene

That sums up why Ferrari collector Steve Cantera decided he had to have this “one off” 1981 Boxer Berlinetta Lemans Rated ChristmasRed beauty in his own North Carolina garage.

While some Ferrari owners are “allowed” to buy a specialty model directly from the famous Italian car maker, Steve shares a passion for this one of the half-dozen that he

has acquired over the years with its previous owner, who first had it restored and upgraded to today’s stand-alone prominence.

I asked Steve where he ranked this one among the other five in his collection and he quickly said, “It depends on what you want. If you want a thrill – this is a thrill ride. The sounds it makes when you put your foot into the induction roar of 12-barrel carburetors, it’s out of this world.”

With that, my next question wondered just how fast it would go.

“The top speed is probably about 185 MPH.” The obvious follow up had to be if he had driven it at that speed, “No, the car is faster than I can drive it. It’s scary fast.”

Not really surprising as the Ferrari legacy, as Wikipedia describes it, is all about “The Prancing Horse” being the oldest surviving and most successful Formula One team in the history of the sport, having competed in every world championship since the 1950 season.

We’ll take a closer look at the upgraded power plant in a minute,

“THERE ARE 929 OF THESE, BUT THIS ONE IS THE ONLY ONE BUILT THIS WAY!”

Steve Cantera stands with his one-ofa-kind 1981 Boxer Berlinetta Lemans Rated Christmas Red Ferrari.

This "scary fast" classic car can hit speeds of 185 mph. Steve admits he hasn't taken it there.

but let’s examine what was done with both the exterior and interior that makes this Ferrari such a standout.

Renowned specialist in Ferraris with over 50 years of race car building experience is the Costa Mesa, California, Carobu Engineering company where the transformation

in black leather, the seats and door panels received red inserts and, to modernize the interior’s appearance, the original large-diameter steering wheel was swapped for a Momo Competition wheel wrapped in perforated leather.

roughly 480 hp. It was a BIG jump in horsepower!”

That’s what makes this Ferrari a one-of-a-kind.

was accomplished.

Rocker panels were made black, while the rest of the body received a custom shade of Rosso Corsa, (no other Ferrari is this exact shade of red) a new windshield and new rear glass, and new light lenses were fitted during the reassembly process.

The entire cockpit was redone

Complete details of the work were the subject of a five-page feature in a 2010 issue of Forza Magazine, and that’s where we find the story of how the previous owner and Steve shared a common passion – both describe how their dream of owning this car was realized.

“I really wasn’t looking for another Boxer, but when I read about what had been done to this car – not only had it been restored inside and out but the big 12-cylinder engine had been rebuilt, adding another 100-horsepower bringing it from 364 hp to what became rated at

You may wonder how we discovered this special Ferrari all the way across the country in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina.

My movie-making son Brian, while working on a project, was introduced to Steve and his fiancé Sherri Williams along the way and was invited to their home built on the side of a mountain right next to a waterfall.

My wife and I got to go along and meet the couple along with the Ferraris. The garage where the cars are parked is located nearby, but it was not possible to position this car with the waterfall in the background – which I would have liked to do.

However, the opportunity to feature the first-ever Ferrari in my 100+ car stories since Arlington Today was launched was a chance not to be missed.

Especially a red one for the Christmas season.

From its unique color, "Rosso Corsa," to its immaculate design, where attention to detail was paid in every facet of the car, this classic automobile is a collector's dream. I'm just happy I got a chance to see it.

I met Steve in North Carolina during our family vacation as he visited with my son Brian for a feature about the car.

I met Steve in North Carolina during our family vacation as he visited with my son Brian for a feature about the car.

M usic to their ears

UTA's Latin Combo was recently tabbed as the best undergraduate Latin group in the nation by DownBeat Magazine

DownBeat Magazine, a music publication covering jazz and blues, named The University of Texas at Arlington Latin Combo as the top undergraduate Latin group in the nation at its 45th Annual Student Music Awards.

“The UTA Latin Combo really did an outstanding job at working on the music and preparing for their performances,” says Christian Valdés, adjunct assistant professor of music at UTA and the group’s mentor. “Learning Latin American jazz and music is not an easy challenge, but they really put their hearts into this, and their efforts paid off with this award.”

Drummer Jacob Farr says that when the group found out it had

won, he felt “excited, proud and a little shocked.”

“We had all put in maximum effort and hearing that our hard work had paid off was validating,” says Farr.

The jazz studies program has several jazz combos; membership is open to all current students at UT Arlington, regardless of major.

“This not only honors them but all of us in the music program and UTA in general,” Valdés says. “I am very proud of them and look forward to more awards to come.”

Besides Farr, the members of the UTA Latin Combo are Yue Liu and Dylan Brown on saxophone, Rafael Escalera on piano and David Spates Conley on bass.

The DownBeat Student Music Awards are considered the most prestigious awards in jazz education. The students were judged blindly by professional musicians and educators solely on their demonstrated abilities from their submitted recordings.

Before studying at UTA, Farr had participated in a summer jazz camp hosted by the UT Arlington Music Department.

“Seeing the incredible staff working with students and just loving what they were doing drove me to study at UTA,” Farr says. “Jazz in particular is impactful because it gives me a means of expression that isn’t found in other more restrictive styles of music.”

Photo: University of Texas at Arlington

Latin Combo members Rafael Escalera, David Spates Conley, Dylan Brown, Jacob Farr and Yue Liu practice their awardwinning music.

Holiday Highlights Holiday Highlights

Holiday concerts

When: Throughout December (check the website below for details)

Where: Arlington Music Hall (224 N. Center St.)

In a nutshell: December always features great performers doing special holiday shows, and this year is no different. arlingtonmusichall.net

Hometown Holidays

When: Nov. 30-Dec. 3

Where: The Dr. Jim Vaszauskas Center for the Performing Arts (1110 W. Debbie Lane) in Mansfield

In a nutshell: Get ready for midway rides, an ice slide, carnival games, interactive arts, Santa visits, food vendors, Toys for Tots dropoffs and special highlights each day like the Toy Drop Off Parade (Wednesday), Tree Lighting & Fireworks (Thursday), Drone Show (Friday) and Dance Spectacular (Saturday).

mansfieldtexas.gov/789/HometownHolidays

Prairie Lights

When: Dec. 1-31 at 6 p.m.

Where: Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake in Grand Prairie

In a nutshell: This spectacular event features millions of lights and hundreds of displays, all surrounding your car as you drive the trail to the Holiday Village. There you can get out to find rides, entertainment, food and more (including the opportunity to take a picture with Santa). prairielights.org

Six Flags Over Texas Holiday in the Park

When: Dec. 1 through Jan. 1

Where: Six Flags Over Texas

In a nutshell: The park's annual holiday celebration features shows, rides, holiday food and merchandise, a new light show and more.

sixflags.com/overtexas/events/holidayin-the-park

Hooray for Holidays Musical TV Special

When: Dec. 2-18 at 7:30 p.m. on ThursdaySaturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday

Where: Theatre Arlington (316 W. Main St.)

In a nutshell: This hilarious Christmas musical about child stars returning as adults for a Christmas special features a special guest at each performance. theatrearlington.org

Junior League of Arlington

Festival of Trees

When: Dec. 2-23 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m and 6-8 p.m. on Monday-Friday and from 6-8 p.m on Saturday and Sunday

Where: JLA’s Center for Community service on Pioneer Parkway

In a nutshell: This event features a dazzling display of more than 50 trees decorated by local businesses, service organizations, and individuals. jlarlington.org/events/ 3rd-annual-festival-of-trees

Holiday Home tour

When: Dec. 4 from 1-5 p.m.

Where: A drive through Mansfield

In a nutshell: The Mansfield Womens Club presents this annual event, during which participants tour beautifully decorated homes.

themansfieldwomensclub.com/ 2022-holiday-home-tour-and-raffle

Opera Arlington presents "O Night

Divine: A Classical Christmas Celebration"

When: Dec. 9 at 7 p.m.

Where: Tate Springs Baptist Church (4201 Little Road)

In a nutshell: The program features beloved classical Christmas works by Holst, Tchaikovsky, Mendelssohn, Niles, Finzi, and other well-known composers. operaarlington.com

Holiday Lights Parade and Tree Lighting

When: Dec. 10 at 6 p.m.

Where: Downtown Arlington and Levitt Pavilion

In a nutshell: Ring in the holidays in festive style with your neighbors as dozens of parade entrants light up the night as they wind through downtown streets before heading back in time for the tree lighting at city hall. There will be food and entertainment galore at and around the

Levitt Pavilion. holidaylightsparade.com

Breakfast with Santa

When: Dec. 10-11 and 17-18 at 9 a.m.

Where: Epic Waters Indoor Water Park (2970 Epic Place) in Grand Prairie

In a nutshell: St. Nick will pay visits to the waterpark on successive weekends, meaning families not only can enjoy the usual park amenities but get to dine with their holiday hero, as well.

epicwatersgp.com

Kennedale Wildcat Band's Breakfast with Santa and Holiday Market

When: Dec. 10 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: 901 Wildcat Way

In a nutshell: This event features live music, vendors, crafts, holiday treats and Santa. khsband.com/holiday-market

Tacky Sweater Party

When: Dec. 15 from 6-8 p.m.

Where: Gracie Lane (4720 S. Cooper St.)

In a nutshell: This annual event features wine, sweets and live music.

gracielanecollections.com

Symphony Arlington's Holiday Concert

When: Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Arlington Music Hall (224 N. Center St.)

In a nutshell: The concert will feature Waldteufel's "Christmas Roses Waltz." Chadwick's "Noël," Tchaikovsky's "Waltz of the Flowers," Arnold's "The Holly and the Ivy," as well as the traditional Carol Singalong.

symphonyarlington.org

47th annual Interlochen Christmas Lights

When: Dec. 16-25 from 7-11 p.m.

Where: The Interlochen neighborhood (Motorists must enter the Interlochen neighborhood from Randol Mill Road at Westwood Drive. )

In a nutshell: Every year, more than 200 homeowners celebrate the season by adorning their homes and property with festive lights and holiday-themed displays. lakeinterlochentx.com/christmas-lights

Home S W E E T ! Home

Looking back at some of the holiday-riffic homes we have featured over the years

Make no mistake about it: There are few experiences as warm or inviting as getting to pay a visit to a dwelling that is spruced up for the holidays (no Christmas tree pun intended). Whether it's the overall theme inside and outside a particular house or the individual pieces that bring the Christmas puzzle to life, a home that is adorned is a home that is adored.

Fortunately, over the past eight years we have been allowed to share an array of abodes of this ilk with our readers.

This Christmas tradition started about a year after we did, and the holiday Home SWEET! Home features consistently became remembered as some of the favorite articles we've published.

This month, the staff at Arlington

Today decided it was time to look back at some of the local holiday shrines that double as conventional dwellings during months not starting with the letter "D."

As you can see, the homes featured were already stellar in their own right. But when the holiday decor was added, they became places of wonder and awe.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

The home of Howard and Judy Zuckerbrow

The home of Madeline Ayoub

The home of Clay and Brandee Kelley

The home of Stephen Zimmer

The home of Howard and Judy Zuckerbrow

The home of Clay and Brandee Kelley

The home of Paul and Kerri Stiefel

The home of Stephen Zimmer

The home of Stephen Zimmer

The home of Jay Warren

SNAPSHOTS OF ARLINGTON/MANSFIELD/GRAND PRAIRIE AREA NEWSMAKERS

Andrew and Amy Schoening display the trophy designating that the new clinic will be named in their honor.

Mayor Jim Ross addresses the crowd at the ribbon-cutting event. Chaplain Rich Stoglin speaks at the Arlington Heritage Memorial Grounds fundraiser.

Frederick Douglass Republicans of Tarrant County award winners: Porsha Jackson, Mary Gilman, Chuck Mogged, The Honorable Kenneth Newell, Amanda Au, Chap. Rich Stoglin and Larry Mike.

Dental Health Arlington ribbon-cutting ceremony

Dental Health Arlington ribbon-cutting ceremony

Dignitaries cut the ribbon at Dental Health Arlington's remodeled facility.

VanDella Menifee received the 2022 ExtraordinaryIs Impact Person of the Year at the The Otis & Rosie Brown Foundation ExtraordinaryIs gala.

Frederick Douglass Republicans of Tarrant County award winners

Frederick Douglass Republicans of Tarrant County award winners

Photos courtesy of the Otis & Rosie Brown Foundation

Photos courtesy of Nancy Blinn

Edward Jones is celebrating 100 years of partnership

As we celebrate 100 years, we want to thank our clients and communities for helping us get to where we are today. With your partnership, we're poised to continue helping to create brighter futures for generations to come.

Love Beyond

Help brighten a family's Christmas and then extend the LOVE BEYOND to provide help all year long. Our goal for 2022 is to raise $450,000 through Red Kettle donations for The Salvation Army and North Texas Youth Education Town. Please help by pledging your financial support today...and Love Beyond!

3 Easy Ways to Support Us:

Opportunity #1

Quickly and easily donate online. Scan code here:

Opportunity #2

Join The Virtual Red Kettle Challenge

You can create a personal or business challenge site or create a Red Kettle Team engaging your friends or employees. Determine your amount, donate it to your Virtual Red Kettle, set your goal at double that amount and challenge your family, friends and employees to help you hit that goal.

Opportunity #3

Register to Ring the Bell

You can do this as an individual or with a group of friends and take on an entire location for a day or more. If you are a business owner you can also make this a great team building opportunity. For every volunteer hour, more funds are raised since we do not have to hire a bell ringer for that time.

Register here:

Build a Red Kettle Challenge here:

You may also send a donation by mail to: The Salvation Army, 712 W. Abram, Arlington, TX 76013

All funds raised will go directly to support the Arlington, Mansfield and surrounding areas.

Making space for hands-on technology

The Mansfield Public Library is converting a generous grant into a Mobile Markerspace that will offer STEM services to its visitors, beginning this fall

The Mansfield Public Library is developing a space where visitors can get hands on with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This new space was made possible after the library received a $23,500 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC). Library officials are using the funding to create a Mobile Makerspace that will allow members of the community to learn and gain experience in different STEM related subjects, increase access to technology, and create hands-on experience.

“The Mansfield Public Library continues to provide more

opportunities for us to learn and grow,” says Mansfield Mayor Michael Evans. “I thank our hardworking staff for applying for grant opportunities to bring the latest technology and innovative education to our city.”

Based on feedback from patrons, the library is investing in the makerspace, improved technology, and a nutrition-based education program. Based on existing program success and partnership opportunities, the library will focus on three main subjects: STEM exploration, crafting creation, and nutrition literacy.

"We're very excited to offer more to our community,” Library Director Yolanda Botello says. “Staff is working hard to plan

these new programs and the library hopes to have the new resources available sometime late fall."

This project is just one of 42 made possible this year by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act.

“TSLAC is proud to support public libraries throughout the state as they deliver critical information services to their communities that support education, access to technology, and workforce development,” says TSLAC Director and Librarian Gloria Meraz.

The new STEM-centered project at the library is one of 42 made possible this year by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act.

Photo: City of Mansfield

KEEN CUISINE ...

UPSCALE

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

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

frieddaze • 5005 S. Cooper St., Suite 159 • 817-472-6666 • frieddaze.com

No Frills Grill • 4914 Little Road • 817-478-1766 • 1500 Eastchase Pkwy., Suite 1200 • 817-274-5433

2851 Matlock Road, Suite 422, Mansfield • 817-473-6699 • nofrillsgrill.com

The Grease Monkey • 200 N. Mesquite St. • 817-665-5454 • greasemonkeyburgers.com

J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill • 400 E. Abram St. • 817-274-8561 • jgilligans.com

MEXICAN / TEX-MEX

Cartel Taco Bar • 506 E. Division St., Suite 150 • 817-200-6364 • carteltacobar.com

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

El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill • 2408 W. Abram St. • 817-276-8160 • facebook.com/elgabachotexmex

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop • 510 E. Abram St. • 817-265-8226 • 4201 W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-516-8226 1601 E. Debbie Lane, Mansfield • 817-453-1682 • fuzzystacoshop.com

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

ITALIAN / PIZZA

Café Sicilia • 7221 Matlock Road • 817-419-2800 • cafesicilia.com

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

R'Haan Thai Cuisine • 2500 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-795-9188 • facebook.com/rhaanthaicuisine

Chamas do Brazil

No Frills Grill

Recipe of the Month (with Dr. T)

Cranberry Relish Delight

Ingredients

12 ounces fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained

2 medium apples, Gala or sweet variety, cored, peeled & cut in 1/4s

1 medium orange, organic, unpeeled, cut in 1/4s

1⁄2 cup turbinado sugar, organic, natural

1/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted lightly

Directions

Pulse cranberries, unpeeled orange quarters and peeled apple quarters in food processor until mixture is a little bigger than dice sized

Place mixture into large bowl and mix in sugar

Add the toasted pecans and toss evenly

Place in covered bowl in refrigerator preferably for at least one day to allow flavors to develop

Patricia Thomson, aka Dr. T, is a recently published author of “WFPB20 - A Step-by-Step Guide to Adopting a PlantBased Lifestyle, a certified plant-based nutritionist, and geeky scientist. She is the co-Founder of Wellness20 along with author, former vegan restaurant owner, chef, and certified nutritionist Brooke Ali. They have created classes, workshops, summits, markets and coaching services, all designed to successfully assist people who want to live a healthier and more fulfilling life. They aim for the whole person approach including nutrition, mindfulness, spirituality and incorporating physical movement into daily lives. They also meet people wherever they are on their health and wellness journey. wellness-20.com

The Best Tex-Mex Between Dallas and Fort Worth!

Can the Cowboys ignite a playoff 'run' this month?

The Cowboys flew to Arizona on Christmas Eve 1995. They played The Monday Night Game that year on Christmas Day. As the flight departed they knew the truth, all they had to do was beat the Cardinals and they would clinch home field advantage throughout the playoffs.

It would be a Merry Christmas, indeed. There were other scenarios that involved both San Francisco and Philadelphia losing, but that was unlikely. There was no connection to the Internet in the air in those days, but as soon as the plane landed a cheer went up among the players and coaches as they learned that both the Eagles and 49ers had, in fact, lost.

So the Cowboys did not need to win the game in the desert. Yet they felt like they did. December had started with back-to-back losses to Washington and Philadelphia, so a loss to the Cardinals would mean they were 1-3 in the all important last four games of the regular season. The Cowboys won that night 37-13 and were back in the Valley of the Sun a month later to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XXX.

Yes, my young Cowboys fans, once upon a time the Cowboys played in Super Bowls.

The memory serves as a reminder of how much fun meaningful December football can be and of how important the month of December is to a team with Super Bowl aspirations. From the owner on down, the Cowboys start every season feeling like they are competing for a Super Bowl. But for most of the past 26 years they haven’t been. This year they are! The NFC is wide open, and Dallas beat the two teams that played in last year's Super Bowl with their back-up quarterback at the helm.

This year December will include five games, and four of them will be against the NFC South. They play the Colts, Texans, Jaguars and Titans. The AFC South is arguably the worst division in the NFL this year. The NFC East is arguably the best. The best team in the best division, the Eagles,

will be in Arlington on Christmas Eve this year. That will be the toughest test of December in a year when the regular season does not end until Jan. 8th.

If the Cowboys hope to be playing beyond Jan. 9th they must have a good December. After a great start to the year they reached the halfway point of the season looking up at the Eagles and the Giants in the division.

There are two things that must happen for the Cowboys to finish the regular season strong. First, they must run the ball. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore has a wonderfully creative approach to play calling. But the truth is that double reverses, flea flickers and half back passes are not what win games in the playoffs. When the Cowboys beat the Bengals in September they used 27 running plays to set up 31 Cooper Rush pass plays. That balance led to a 20-17 win.

Beating the defending Super Bowl champion Rams on the road was even more impressive. Thirty four running plays accounted for 163 yards. Ezekiel Elliott carried it 22 times for 78 yards, Tony Pollard burst onto the scene averaging 10.8 yards per carry. He toted the rock just eight times for 86 yards. With that kind of ground control 10 completions for 102 yards was more than enough for a 2210 victory. So they must run the ball.

But, even more importantly, they must stop the run.

The old saying in sports is, “offense sells tickets, defense wins games.” The Cowboys held the Rams to 38 yards rushing in that October win. The Bengals managed just 89 yards against a stout Cowboys defense. Contrast that to the loss last month in Green Bay. The Packers ran the ball 39 times for 207 yards and came back from a two touchdown deficit to win in overtime.

Because of some lesser opponents this can be a December to remember for the Cowboys. To make it a memorable season they must make a playoff run.

Emphasis on run and stopping the run.

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

John Rhadigan

Tony Pollard's 2022 season has given fans hope that the Dallas Cowboys' running game is in good hands ... er, feet .. as they head into the tell-tale month of December.

Photo: insidethestar.com

And the hits keep on coming

It’s another major win for our city, as the 2024 Major League Baseball All Star Game is again presented to the world with Arlington fully centered in the spotlight of the National Pastime’s annual extravaganza.

We should take a minute and reflect how this is just the latest reward for what was one of the most consequential decisions ever made by Arlington voters when they showed up in record numbers in 1991 to approve the development of The Ballpark in Arlington.

Without that far-reaching outcome the Texas Rangers would be playing in some other city, and nothing that has occurred in the city’s largest tourism economy would have ever come to pass.

Instead, we today have one of the nation’s most thriving sports and entertainment industries supporting an enhanced quality of life for all our residents.

Dallas Morning News sportswriter Evan Grant did a nice job when describing how Major League Baseball will, in addition to staging the game’s centerpiece event at Globe Life Field, make use of everything else around it.

That will include Choctaw Stadium (the original Ballpark in Arlington where the 1995 All Star Game was presented), Texas Live!, the 1,200 Loews hotel rooms scheduled to be online by early 2024, the new Arlington Convention Center attached to one of those hotels, and Esports Stadium just across Johnson Creek.

MLB Vice President of Global Events Jeremiah Yolkut recognized what Arlington has achieved in the ensuring years: “The development the Rangers have come up with is sort of an entertainment and sports mecca, and at the center is an amazing ballpark that we are very familiar with.”

Rangers owner Ray Davis confirmed that reality in his statement following the announcement: “With the opening of Globe Life Field in 2020 and the incredible development that continues to take place around the park, Arlington is an ideal location to host Major League Baseball and the Midsummer Classic.”

Texas Governor Greg Abbott added his congratulations following the announcement, “Thanks to the hard work of the Rangers franchise and local leaders, Texas has once again proven itself to be a premier destination for business and America’s pastime. The All-Star Game will be a boon to our state’s economy and tourism industry.”

While the Arlington Convention and Visitors Bureau estimates the game will bring $90 million in economic impact to the area, I have always thought the intangible benefits were worth much more.

Having the privilege of being in the middle of it all as mayor of our city’s hosting the 1995 game, I experienced first-hand how Arlington emerged in national attention, as the week-long celebration unfolded throughout the national news and sports media.

At first, reporters who were not yet familiar with Arlington erroneously would identify “Dallas” as where the event was being staged. We quickly fixed that, and by the time Nolan Ryan tossed out the ceremonial first pitch on game day, it was all Arlington, all the time.

I’m reminded that during the game we got to see all these future MLB Hall of Fame players, beginning with our own Pudge Rodriguez, on our field at the same time: Frank Thomas, Wade Boggs, Cal Ripken Jr., Ken Griffey Jr., Kirby Puckett, Edgar Martinez, Mike Piazza, Craig Biggio, Ozzie Smith, Tony Gwynn, Greg Maddux, Randy Johnson, Lee Smith, Barry Larkin, and Roberto Alomar.

That’s one-time excitement for baseball fans everywhere, and we’ll get to see the current prospects for that honor again in less than two years from now – the best of the best who excel at the most challenging game in the entire world of sports.

There are only 28 cities in the world that have the unique privilege of hosting a Major League Baseball team. Arlington again emerges among them all right here as the game’s premier midsummer’s event sets the bar higher than ever with everyone watching.

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

Richard Greene

Regardless of what price these tickets to the 1995 Major League All Star Game fetched on game day, the value of Arlington being able to host the historic game probably can't be measured. Thankfully, we will host another one in 2024.

Coffee House Grounds and Gold Co.

Aback-to-back recipient of an Editors' Choice award, Grounds and Gold Co. has always been about community, so it’s only fitting that the popular cafe would be our choice as the area's go-to place for coffee.

The Grounds and Gold journey started with Gold Ribbon Confections, a bakery founded in honor of owner Maurice Ahern’s son, Micah, who died in 2015 after a six-year battle with cancer. Since Gold Ribbon was founded, Maurice dreamed of expanding the bakery to a brick and mortar, café-style location that would focus on benefiting the community.

Maurice partnered with family members Jenifer and Jimmy Kinley to create Grounds and Gold, a community café that proudly serves Gold Ribbon Confections’ baked goods and some of the best coffee in the area.

Grounds and Gold Co.

4130 S. Bowen Road

682-252-46339

groundsandgold.com