February 2018 by Arlington Today

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

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“I grew up in Arlington, so when it came time to choose a college, UTA just made sense. My experience at UTA was a fundamental first step in the series of events that have determined my career. My volcanology professor at the time is someone I still collaborate with today!”

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’05 ARLINGTON HIGH SCHOOL ’10 BFA, ART, UTA FOUNDER, PAUL WINDLE CREATIVE ART STUDIO, LOS ANGELES LUCAS BROS. MOVING CO., FOX TELEVISION, LOS ANGELES

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Sanford Spa Valentine’s Day Special

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Contents

February • Volume 5 • Issue 2

Highlights

26 The Great Escape (room) Blue Ops Mission is a bringing a new kind of fun to the Arlington area.

Photo: surgery.med.ufl.edu

On the cover

28 Healthcare providers leading the way

In our annual medical edition special section, which starts on page 28, we offer profiles on some of the local healthcare providers who are leading the way in their respective specialty areas.

Meet local medical professionals who help keep us healthy and hardy.

46 To you, with love Here are nine great ways to celebrate this Valentine’s Day (and Week).

48 A gem with wheels John Ridings Lee owns an automobile that is among the world’s most valuable collections.

52 Home SWEET! Home This month, we take a tour of the brand new, Spanishstyle dwelling of Camner and Kelly Rubin.

48 Departments

Construction is underway on the Texas Live! development, due to open later this year.

64 2018 gardening trends Healthy-for-you plants and a hardy hue are expected to define this year’s local garden scene.

68 Dreams do come true The Texas Rangers/Greene Scholarship Program celebrates its 20th anniversary with a festive reunion.

60 ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Mansfield’s Troy Dorsey has moved from winning titles to winning hearts and souls.

60 Look what’s on the horizon

Starting Line ... 12 This ‘n Data ... 14 Scene ... 22, 58, 66 Around Town ... 24 Health/Fitness ... 42 Style ... 44 Tennis Tip ... 72 Dining Guide ... 74 Sights/Sounds ... 76 Speaking of Sports ... 78 Itinerary ... 80 Finish Line ... 82

56 Still the champ

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35 NIV

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

For better or worse A Valentine’s Day story that probably won’t serve as a model for others

uring this, the most romantic month of the year, I’m about to make a most unromantic confession: I proposed to my wife in an automobile. In retrospect, I probably should have selected a more exotic setting. Such as the food court at the mall. Or the salvage yard. Or a bed of a poison ivy. ANYWHERE BUT THE CAR! But I wasn’t thinking clearly that night. Had I been thinking clearly that night, I would have escorted Susan to that car, cranked it up, headed to the airport, boarded a plane bound for Niagara Falls – and dropped to a knee beneath the mist. Me? I said, “I … uh … have something I want to ask you.” I remember there being a long pause. “Sure,” she said. Had I been thinking clearly that night, I would have opened her door, escorted her to the magnificent collection of flowers in her parents’ garden, plucked one, gently handed it to her – and dropped to a knee in the middle of the hydrangeas. Me? I said, “Willyoumarryme?” In the practice round, I uttered those words slowly, lovingly, emphatically. Come game time, not so much. I had just transformed the four magic words almost Yale Youngblood every female longs to hear into one five-syllable blurt, punctuated by Editor a question mark. IN THE CAR! There was another long pause. Susan, by nature, was always deliberate. She still is. She considers options, weighs reward against risk, sees the “Big Picture” far better than most. And her big picture answer was … “Probably.” Wait – it gets better. Before the botched proposal, we had made plans to visit my parents’ home, so I started that now infamous car and steered it to their driveway. After engaging in some small talk with the folks – considerably smaller than what I had hoped for earlier in the evening – Mom and Dad retired, and Susan and I turned our attention to a movie that was playing on the television. By the time we tuned in, the film was well past “setting” and pretty deep into “plot.” Actually, it was at the point where the protagonist told the person sitting across the table from him that he had something he wanted to ask her. I remember thinking, “what are the odds?” Sure enough, the main male character asked main female character if she would marry him. Sure enough, she paused longer than any guy would like. And sure enough, she then said … and I’ll put my right hand on a Bible, if you ask me to, just to verify that I am telling the truth here … “Probably.” And that was the moment I knew Yale and Susan Youngblood would live happily ever after.

yale@arlingtontoday.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

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EDITORIAL Editor Yale Youngblood Contributing Editor Marla Thomas Sports Columnist John Rhadigan Style Editor Tricia Schwartz Website & Social Media Manager Courtney Lackner McCoy Contributing Graphic Artists Susan Darovich, Susan Youngblood Contributing Writers Michele Duskin, Karen Gavis, Bill Lace, Kenneth Perkins, Toni Randle-Cook, Amanda Rogers Contributing Photographers Gary Coots, Hasson Diggs, Dwayne Lee, Heather Lee, Bruce Maxwell Toni Randle-Cook, Amanda Rogers SALES / CIRCULATION Business Manager Bridget Dean Sales Managers Laura DiStefano, Amy Lively, Andrea Proctor, Debbie Roach, Tricia Schwartz Distribution Manager Logan Taylor PRODUCTION Production Manager Susan Darovich ARLINGTON TODAY is published monthly. Copyright 2018 Arlington Today, Inc., 1000 Ballpark Way, Suite 308, Arlington, TX 76011. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without permission of the publisher. The inclusion of advertising is considered a service to readers and is not an endorsement of products. Basic subscriptions are $33.95 for 12 issues (price includes tax and shipping). E-mail subscriptions@arlingtontoday.com

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This ‘n Data

2017 Iron Cowboy Eduardo Aparecido will try to defend his title this month at AT&T Stadium.

8 seconds of glory Professional Bull Riders’ grueling Iron Cowboy competition will play out at AT&T Stadium on Feb. 24 Photo courtesy of Pavlik and Associates

he second PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Major of the 2018 season, The Winstar World Casino and Resort Iron Cowboy, presented by Kawasaki, will take place Feb. 24 at AT&T Stadium. It will be the ninth consecutive year that AT&T Stadium will host the event. PBR Majors are the highest profile events on the Built Ford Tough Series (BFTS). The special events present the stars of the PBR – bull riders and bulls – competing in unique formats that offer increased world standings points and prize money. For one night only, the Top-40 stars of the “toughest sport on dirt” will tackle the world’s rankest bulls, striving to make the 8-second buzzer. If a rider stays on his bull

for the required eight seconds, he continues to compete. If he gets bucked off, he is finished. The men will continue to ride until one cowboy prevails and is declared the Iron Cowboy. Tickets for the Iron Cowboy range in price from $10 to $150. They can be purchased at the AT&T Stadium Box Office and Ticketmaster. com, or by phone at 800-745-3000. PBR Elite Seats, a premium seating VIP experience that began in 2016, are also available and will provide fans front row seats right on the 50-yard line at AT&T Stadium. The PBR Elite Seats are priced at $500 and will give fans the VIP experience of a lifetime: a pre-event reception with refreshments, photos with the PBR World

Championship trophy, a 2018 PBR program, backstage tours featuring a PBR 101 presentation, meet-and-greets with several of PBR’s top stars and dirt access following the PBR event. The 2017 Iron Cowboy champion, Eduardo Aparecido, 2016 champion Shane Proctor and two-time Iron Cowboy champion Joao Ricardo Vieira are expected to compete. They will be joined by several PBR World Champions, including 2016 PBR World Champion Cooper Davis, two-time World Champion J.B. Mauney (2013, 2015), three-time World Champion Silvano Alves (2014, 2012, 2011), 2004 World Champion Mike Lee and 2008 World Champion Guilherme Marchi.

Texas Health’s Smith elected president/chair of information management board

iann H. Smith, vice president of Health Information Management Services & Clinical Documentation Improvement at Texas Health Resources, was recently elected as the 2018 president/chair of the American Health Information Management Association’s (AHIMA) Board of Directors. The AHIMA Board provides strategic guidance on information governance, informatics and analytics, along with preparing for the ever-evolving roles in

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

health information management. Smith, a proud breast cancer survivor, develops and executes system-wide standardization, efficiencies and strategies that support the overall performance and quality improvement for Texas Health’s clinical documentation and health information management services. “Last year, I lost my daughter Dee to breast cancer,” Smith says. “Because of her battle and mine, I’ll remain a strong supporter of breast cancer research and awareness.”

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This ‘n Data

Mansfield ISD earns coveted leadership award

Coming soon!

February Arlington on Tap speakers will offer the full scoop on Texas Live!

or the curious about what the $250 million, rapidly progressing Texas Live! will be all about, the Feb. 13 downtown happy hour and lecture series Arlington on Tap offers a remedy: Show up for “Everything You Wanted to Know About Texas Live!” The speakers: • Taylor Gray, vice president of development for The Cordish Companies, developer for the future high-profile, sportanchored destination, which is Taylor Gray under construction now. • Rob Matwick, executive vice president of business operations for the Texas Rangers and also – handily – the team’s liaison for the project with Cordish and the city of Arlington. Place and time: J. Gilligan’s Bar and Grill, 400 E. Abram St., from 6 - 8 p.m. on Feb. 13 (a Tuesday). “Though Arlington has prospered with a booming tourism industry attracting millions of people every year, the city’s leadership has always wanted to entice longer stays, year-round non-seasonal visitation and crowds that show up earlier and stay later for events at Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys facilities,” says O.K. Carter, a publisher and author who founded Arlington

on Tap along with Mark Joeckel, the executive director of Arlington Proud. Texas Live!, Carter says, is a critical piece of the strategy and also a major amenity for the Entertainment District. It’s also something the city’s residents have a personal investment in: The city has provided $50 million in economic development incentives for the project. “The $250 million investment will feature 200,000 square feet Rob Matwick of best-in-class restaurants, retail and entertainment venues, and a 5,000-capacity outdoor event pavilion, as well as Live! by Loews, a full-service 300-room convention hotel and 35,000 square feet of meeting/convention space,” Carter says. “Given its location on the banks of Johnson Creek – midway between the Rangers and Cowboys – the potential is to create an amenity that’ll be competitive with San Antonio’s River Walk. A lot of live music and eclectic dining venues will also be part of the overall package.” Arlington on Tap is free, RSVP not required, and is sponsored by the Arlington Historical Society, Arlington Proud and Arlington Today magazine.

ansfield ISD’s Board of Trustees was chosen as one of five school boards in Texas to receive the 2018 H-E-B Excellence in Education ® Leadership Award. The honor, sponsored by the Texas grocery store chain, recognizes school boards that have demonstrated true leadership based on academic and student progress, meeting community needs and enhancing community engagement. A panel of judges will present the $5,000 prize check in February. If the MISD school board is selected by the committee to receive the special judges award, the board will receive a grant for up to $25,000. The winner of the grand price will be announced during a dinner in May.

Nationally known stylists join the Shelton’s Salon team

enowned beauty specialists Christopher Dove and John Simpson recently joined the team at Shelton’s Salon & Spa, which has three Metroplex locations, including one at 2122 W. Park Row Drive. Dove, who grew up outside of London, has 30 years experience in the beauty industry, owning a salon and teaching hair cutting, coloring and styling to international stylists. The lead stylist on the Atlanta set for the movie “The Hunger Games” has represented the hair color brand Wella as a speaker and presenter. He met Shelton 16

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

and Linda Ogle, owners of Shelton’s Salon & Spa, at an educational event in Dallas, where the seed was planted for his eventual move to join their team in the Metroplex. Simpson gained acclaim for practicing and teaching styling in Pittsburgh, Pa., before becoming the lead global creative designer for the hair color company Goldwell. He and Dove met and ultimately created their own education brand called CoCre8, based in Los Angeles. Shelton’s Salons asked the men to present a weekend of education, during which the Ogles invited them to lead the Shelton’s

Christopher Dove and John Simpson

Salon Advanced Education and Creative Direction. With the opportunity to meet and gain new guests and clients, they made the choice to relocate to Arlington.

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This ‘n Data

Concours d’Elegance of Texas will be back in Arlington in April

Photo: Richard Greene

reparations for the upcoming annual Coucours d’Elegance of Texas event in Arlington on April 22 included recent visits from two national leaders of the Classic Car Club of America. On the left is head judge Steve Babinski, whose services are provided to both the national Pebble Beach and Amelia Island Concours events, and Executive Director Jay Quail looking over one of this year’s premier entries – a 1931 Packard DeLuxe Roadster. That’s a 1934 Cadillac LaSalle (a previous Pebble Beach winner) in the center and a 1940 Lincoln Zephyr on the right. Film crew members Brian and Ashley Greene are recording a segment for the upcoming “Full Classic” television series now in production.

Baseball-size ‘Hail!’ Renovated Ditto, set to open this summer, will become the Texas Rangers Golf Club

he City of Arlington and Texas Rangers recently announced a new partnership to create the world’s only Major League Baseball-branded golf course — the Texas Rangers Golf Club — scheduled to open this summer. The rebranding agreement involves the former Chester W. Ditto Golf Course, which has undergone $24 million in course renovations. The Texas Rangers Golf Club will afford the opportunity for Arlington to offer a destination golf course not only for residents but for visitors to the Rangers ballpark, Texas Live! and other Entertainment District attractions.

3 18

Scoops

The American Dream City’s newest golf course is located at Brown Boulevard and Collins Street in north Arlington. A new clubhouse, set to open in spring 2019, will feature a full-service restaurant and bar, pro shop, multi-purpose rental and event space, and more. To honor Chester W. Ditto, his family, and their contributions to the City of Arlington, the clubhouse will be named the Chester Ditto Clubhouse. The Texas Rangers are allowing the City to use the team’s branding for the public golf course at no cost through a promotional and licensing agreement.

RAISE YOUR HAND if you knew that in 1976, descendants of the pioneer James Gibbins donated over 200 acres from their original homestead to the city to create a new park. Keep it up if you also knew that this land in north Arlington became the nucleus for what is now known as River Legacy Parks.

1. Medical City Arlington (featured in

2. The Senior Lifestyle Program

3. Downtown Arlington has a new

our Health Care Provider section on

at Mansfield Activities Center is

dining option, which is perfect for

page 35) recently added three new

celebrating its 40th anniversary this

those craving a buttery croissant or

leaders to its executive team. Mary

year. The program has regular daily

freshly made chicken panini. Panera

Beth Short has joined the hospital’s

attendance averaging around 75-100

Bread, whose menu offerings

leadership as vice president of human

senior visitors, and more than 300

include sandwiches, soups, freshly

resources, Michael Smith is vice

different programs are offered each

baked breads and pastries, recently

president of business development,

year, including volleyball, arts and

opened at 593 S. Pecan Street at

and Marcus Jackson will serve as vice

crafts, social events and more. For

The University of Texas at Arlington’s

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Happenings in the Arlington Independent School District • aisd.net

Arlington ISD awarded $75,000 grant for innovative anatomy visualization system for health science courses The Arlington ISD has been awarded $75,000 by the Texas Education Agency’s Perkins Reserve Grant to purchase an Anatomage table – a technologically-advanced anatomy visualization system – for the district’s health science students. The grant will help the district’s nearly 2,900 students enrolled in Career and Technical Education health science courses – the largest career cluster in the AISD – to have real-world experiences and increased rigor so they may graduate exceptionally prepared to enter the health science workforce and postsecondary education, all goals of the district’s Achieve Today. Excel Tomorrow. strategic plan. “Having this innovative Anatomage table will be yet another way Arlington ISD students are experiencing relevant and cutting-edge learning opportunities on a daily basis,” AISD Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos said. “We appreciate the Perkins Reserve Grant recognizing the AISD’s vision to be a leader in education by awarding this grant.” The AISD offers six health science pathways: emergency medical technician, patient care technician, pharmacy technician, biomedical research, health informatics and sports medicine. Hands-on experience with the Anatomage table will give AISD students multiple advantages in terms of opportunities for certification and post-graduation employment as well as a solid foundation for postsecondary education. With the purchase of the Anatomage table, the AISD will be the only program in Arlington and one of few in

Tarrant County to give secondary students access to this state-of-the-art technology. The Anatomage table provides a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology and diagnostic imaging. Using the Anatomage table, students will study the human body layer by layer, through muscles, bones and organs, and including the nervous and lymphatic systems. Students will interact with virtual cadavers, performing dissections and surgical cuts, comparing normal and

diseased anatomy, and exploring the human body in a way that cannot be replicated using a textbook. The AISD will look for ways to share the technology to strengthen existing partnerships with higher education institutions and industry, thereby increasing the dual credit and internship opportunities available to AISD students. The Perkins Reserve grant will cover about 93 percent of the cost of the Anatomage table. This is one of several strong community partnerships that support the district and its programs – $13 million from Tarrant County College for the Arlington Collegiate High School facility;

Happenings in the Arlington Independent School District â&#x20AC;˘ aisd.net nearly $2.1 million from Raise Your Hand Texas, the Meadows Foundation, American Express and the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Sid Richardson Foundation, and the Rainwater Charitable Foundation for the Emerging Leaders Program; full funding from the Holdsworth Center for leadership training; $1.1 million from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington for an after-school center within a new campus; $500,000 from Texas Trust Credit Union for an outdoor performance area at one of the districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fine arts/dual language academies; more than $200,000 from Moritz Dealerships for the automotive technology program; and nearly $100,000 from the Gene and Jerry Jones Family Arlington Youth Foundation for programs including the AISD Back to School Kickoff, a character training initiative for secondary coaches and athletes and funding for all fifth graders to take part in the art tour at AT&T Stadium.

Picture-perfect Moments

Sue Durbec, Martin Durbec, guest speaker Theron Bowman and James Campbell Quick

Nancy York, O.K. Carter and Susanne York

Katie Gosa and Garret Martin

Scene

Snapshots from the January Arlington on Tap featuring guest speaker Theron Bowman at Mavericks Sports Grill

Ashley Priest and Patti Brock

Photos: Yale Youngblood

Jill Jordan and Larry Jordan

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Arlington Police Sgt. Jakisha Jones and retired Sgt. Bill Stallsworth

Trusted, accredited heart care. Methodist Mansfield Medical Center has received Chest Pain Center accreditation from The Joint Commission, one of the nation’s highest honors. It’s just one more reason to trust that your heart is in good hands at the Amon G. Carter Foundation Heart and Vascular Center. Trust. Methodist. “I’m feeling so much better now. Thanks to Methodist Mansfield, I’m still going strong and in the game.” — Jack Morrison, open heart surgery patient

MethodistHealthSystem.org/MansfieldCardiology

Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System or Methodist Mansfield Medical Center. Methodist Health System complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

Around Town

Don’t be like Mike What’s the true meaning of Valentine’s Day? Treasure your treasure • By Kenneth Perkins

ichael Oliver and Valentine’s Day is a volatile mix. He doesn’t like it. It doesn’t like him. So he says. So he believes. Last year his girlfriend of four months dumped him. On Feb. 10. Said he wasn’t “romantic” enough. No flowers. No Cuddly Stuffed Bears. No “I Love You” notes slipped into her purse. When she asked what he had planned for Valentine’s Day, he responded with a blank stare. Not good. Three years ago, a few weeks before the Big Love Day, his girlfriend of a year told him she was done. That he wasn’t romantic enough. No flowers. No Cuddly Stuffed Bears. No “I love you” notes slipped into her purse. Their Valentine’s Day was a disaster, he says. He got her a dozen red roses. The problem: He presented them to her by saying, “Here you go.” Not good. Michael, who is 29 and a graphic artist, has lived in Arlington for four years, having transplanted from Little Rock, Ark. “I don’t really get Valentine’s Day,” he moans. Neither does Nicholas Jenson who, like Michael, was at Parks Mall, in the Food Court, lunching. “It’s like this forced holiday,” Nicholas says, clearly disturbed. “You have to get a girl something, whether you want to or not. So where is the romantic thought behind that, you know?” Bold guy, this Nicholas. His fiancée, Brittany, is sitting right across from him. She’s clearly not amused. “Most of my girlfriends are thinking about Valentine’s Day in January,” Brittany says. “I don’t want to be one of those girls who bug guys about getting them something for Valentine’s Day just because it’s Valentine’s Day, but what they do on that day wouldn’t be such a chore if they loved the person they are with and want to see them happy.” Jessica Seward said pretty much the same thing. She’s been married for four years to Leone, whom she says has gotten better

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

“with the whole romantic thing.” “I really do think that he knows the day isn’t really for him,” she says, laughing. “Once he got that, he became better on Valentine’s Day. Last year it was on a Tuesday, I think, and he got me some flowers. But on that Friday he surprised me with a really romantic dinner at a restaurant I really like and he wrote me this poem, which he never, ever does. He was sooooo romantic, I nearly cried.” What women said on this less-than-scientific sampling of Valentine’s Day attitudes almost sounds biblical: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. “You love me, you want to see me happy. You want to see me happy, you acknowledge the day in some romantic way,” says Michelle Tobin, who is 20 and a college student. Her two friends nod yes. “We don’t want it to sound like we’re all trying to get gifts or something on Feb. 14,” says Michelle’s friend, Patrice, also 20 and a college student. “But if you really cared about me, you will just want to say that on the day set aside to say that. Now that doesn’t mean that’s the only day. But it’s a special day. I mean, c’mon, it’s ONE DAY a year.” Image: wallpaperholidays.com Valentine’s Day isn’t rocket science. Just another day to celebrate. You’re either in or out. Michael, for the time being, is out. Too bad. Relationships over time settle into a sense of sameness, although that’s not particularly a bad thing. Particularly when that sameness is based on respect, friendship, compromise, trust, communication. Perhaps Michael learned that he and his significant other had none of the above. So he’ll move on. One thing about Valentine’s Day, for better or worse: it just keeps coming.

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

When it comes to your family and your finances,

EXPERIENCE MATTERS. Donna J. Smiedt and Rashelle D. Fetty have both been named as Top Attorneys Fort Worth. Donna has been selected as a Texas Superlawyer as well. Donna J. Smiedt has been named for over a decade as "Arlington's Family Law Attorney of the Year!" Donna J. Smiedt has been honored as "10 Best of 2016 in Client Satisfaction" by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys. Both Donna J. Smiedt and Desaray R. Muma are collaboratively trained to provide clients with a private form of dispute resolution to avoid litigation.

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

Located in historic Mansfield is a dedicated cemetery bonded in perpetuity offering a dignified resting place.

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Distinctive Burial Gardens Honor, Hope, Devotion, Peace & Serenity arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Fun & Games

The great

ESCAPE (room)

Blue Ops Mission is a bringing a new kind of fun to Arlington • By Karen Gavis

Photos: Blue Ops Mission

How do you escape from Blue Ops Mission? Owners Elijah and Anastasia Clark say follow the clues (and bring along some kids).

ucked discreetly away inside an inconspicuous building in North Arlington is Blue Ops Mission – an escape room that looks to be part of covert government operation. But what exactly might one escape from – zombies, a deadly virus or an influx of steroid-consuming, sewer rats? “Our goal, Blue Ops Mission, is just come here and do some missions and not escape anything,” owner Elijah Clark says. “It’s not really escape.” It is really fun – and part of a new form of entertainment that draws clue-based game lovers to 351 W. Randoll Mill Road, Suite 131 on a growing basis. Clark, a military veteran with a background in marketing, along with his wife, Anastasia, launched Blue Ops Mission a few months ago. They say their biggest hurdle has been getting people to realize what escape rooms are all about. At this one, guests can choose from three rooms inside the building, from which “not to escape.” During an hour-long session, players are provided clues to decipher codes that lead to more clues and ultimately to the end of their mission. “We try to throw a unique approach which is CIA, FBI, military,” Clark says. From Blue Ops Missions’ governmental color scheme to its official badge-type wall insignias, the themes are apparent. One room is set up with authentic, military-grade gear and features a reconnaissance mission. Clark says it’s the operation’s most challenging room. There’s also a captured comrade POW room whose drab surroundings, which includes a relief bucket placed in a corner 26

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

and not much else, isn’t a place anyone would want to spend much time in. It is also the least complex of the three missions. The most popular challenge is Mission Blue List, which is sort of a throwback to National Treasure where players try to find a list of names hidden somewhere inside an office. I tried Mission Blue List and realized – at one point, while sitting cross-legged on the floor hunkered underneath a desk trying to crack a combination lock code – that it was fun. The place gets a lot of Generation Xers, Clark says. And while most, including myself, don’t complete their mission successfully, since prizes are involved, if someone shows up with children their mission will more than likely end successfully. “Math majors get out pretty fast compared to those who don’t know what they are doing,” Clark says. “Usually, we help people out a little bit with clues.” Clark pointed out a room filled with television screens where activities taking place within the rooms are monitored and where parents can sit and monitor their children’s adventures. In addition to the (non)- escape rooms, Blue Ops Mission also has a conference room that is open to the public and serves as a corporate meeting and event space. “We’re clean; we’re corporate,” Clark says. “Our whole logo, everything, is focused around corporate identity. “ Clark also says he and Anastasia knew that Arlington was where they wanted to be. “You go over it in an airplane, and you just feel it,” he says. “We tried to make our place the place to go. [And] we get a lot of families.”

The RE/MAX Pinnacle Group: Top row: Betty Fry, Elizabeth Deane, Dixon Holman, Becky Hearne and Sharon Holman Bottom row: Doris Washington, Lisa Gardner, Donna Noto and Mary Ann Cottrell

Photo: Southern Flair Photography

RE/MAX Pinnacle Group REALTORS® Real Estate Trends to Watch in 2018

RE/MAX PINNACLE GROUP REALTORS® go above and beyond for their clients in North Texas. Buying or selling, you’ll have a trusted pro guiding you every step of the way. Here are some local real estate trends they’re seeing this year ... Becky Hearne: With Dallas/Fort Worth being one of the top real estate markets in the country, home buyers and sellers need an experienced agent to help them navigate the transaction. Due to the large number of people moving to DFW, I expect 2018 to continue to be a great time to sell and competitive for home buyers. Betty Fry: Our Dallas Fort Worth market offers an awesome real estate environment as well as challenging market conditions. The inventory remains low with appreciating values for most homeowners. Seasoned, experienced agents are the key to smooth real estate transactions in this very competitive market. Look for experience & hire the experience! Our company exemplifies experience.

made a significant investment in developing a new, more efficient website that also includes a mobile application, www.thedeaneteam.com Buyers are searching online and having a user-friendly app makes all the difference. The Deane Team is proud to provide real-time information back with great customer service. I think that is what has made us one of the Top producing teams since 2008. Dixon Holman: As a real estate professional, I am regularly asked the question: “So, how’s the market?” If you are a seller, the answer is “hot.” As has been the case for the last few years, supply remains limited and buyers remain plentiful. Arlington Board of Realtors statistics show Arlington December 2017 median home prices were up 13.7% over the same time last year, and the average home was on the market only 37 days before going under contract. With demand at record highs, it’s a great time to be a seller. It’s also a good time to consider a purchase. Prices are projected to continue to rise and interest rates remain low.

Doris Washington: While it’s impossible to know for sure what’s in store for the market in 2018. Home prices and values are expected to rise. Many experts predict it will be a banner year for new home sales.

Donna Noto: The market is strong. It is a great time to buy or sell! People will be pleasantly surprised by the value of their homes in this current market. I would love the opportunity to do complimentary market analysis to anyone interested in selling their home! The real estate market is predicted to be even stronger this year!

Elizabeth Deane: The Arlington Real Estate market appears to be on track for another record year in 2018. As Realtors, we have to keep up with the everchanging technology in order to give our clients the winning edge. In 2017 I

Mary Ann Cottrell: I am looking forward to an exciting 2018 with a very active market. With so much excitement and development in Arlington and Fort Worth, I believe we will see more and more families transferring in to our area.

RE/MAX Pinnacle Group REALTORS® | 1241 W. Green Oaks Blvd. | 817-460-3900 | remaxpinnacle.com

local healthcare providers Leading the way

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Audiology

Dr. Kristin Robbins and Dr. Lisa B. Fell Photo courtesy of Audiology Experts

audiology experts

r. Lisa B. Fell and Dr. Kirstin Robbins, founders of Audiology Experts, are focused on reconnecting people with their family and friends – with better and easier communication. “A change in a person’s ability to hear affects the whole family, and often it’s a family member who first notices a change in their loved one,” Dr. Robbins says. “We encourage our patients to bring a family member to their initial hearing evaluation and to be a part of the journey that helps improve hearing. Working together can improve the quality of life for everyone involved.” Since its inception in 2008, Audiology Experts has steadily grown to become one of the premier offices for hearing healthcare in Arlington. Dr. Robbins and Dr. Fell were friends and fellow audiology students at Texas Tech University who started working together in 2000 in a medical ENT clinic prior to opening Audiology Experts. Their shared audiology experience, strong teamwork skills and passion for patients have helped them craft an ideal resource for patients seeking thorough and personal hearing care. “Setting realistic expectations at our very first appointment helps our patients be successful,” Dr. Fell says. “We do not grab a pair of hearing instruments off the shelf, put them on ears and send users out the door. We explain to users and caregivers that wearing hearing instruments requires continued care. Patients see us at least two times a year so that we can check ears and their devices to ensure proper function.” The patient-first approach and conscious effort to include family and friends in the process are reflected in the clinic’s warm, friendly atmosphere. From the initial consultation throughout the treatment process, Dr. Fell and Dr. Robbins provide

advanced hearing technology solutions for maximizing their patients’ hearing, listening and communicative abilities so they can continue to be productive in their daily professional and personal activities. Another key to the practice’s success is that Audiology Experts does not just sell hearing aids – but better hearing. “Immediately after the evaluation we make recommendations and offer solutions as you are guided through the process to better hearing,” Dr. Fell says. “With our access to advanced hearing aid technology and ability to find solutions for easier communication, we are offering not just better hearing, but hope, which is sometimes lost when a person has hearing issues.” Success with hearing aids depends on hearing loss, expectations, even ear shape. It also depends on the expertise of the hearing healthcare provider. Big corporation hearing aid retail offices and franchises, internet sold or mail order hearing aids, retailers near the checkout line at Sam’s or Costco, even small spaces that used to be a supply closet in the corner of local drugstores are not the most effective way to address hearing loss. Dr. Fell says that there are too many choices, so it’s little wonder that many people in need of hearing care delay getting it sometimes. Dr. Robbins and Dr. Fell privately own Audiology Experts. Being independent and not tied to any hearing aid manufacturer allows these audiologists to do what is best for the patient, with no strings attached. “Our patients find a friendly staff, refreshments, comfortable seating, up-to-date equipment, and private rooms for talking with the audiologist,” Dr Fell says. “It is a better experience compared to the other options.”

Audiology Experts • 1261 W. Green Oaks Blvd., #105 • 817-451-4818 • AudiologyExperts.com arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Oncology

Chad Amosson, M.D.; Anwar Khurshid, M.D.; Alfred DiStefano, M.D.; Karel Dicke, M.D., Ph.D.; John Adams, D.O., F.AC.O.I.; and Barry Firstenburg, D.O., of Arlington Cancer Center

Photo: highlandhomes.com

arlington cancer center

or nearly four decades, Arlington Cancer Center has been known nationally as a pioneer in cancer treatment, offering cutting-edge, individualized care. The center’s team of physicians and other health care professionals is highly trained and committed to the fight against cancer. The center was founded in 1982 by Alfred DiStefano, M.D., along with other forward-thinking physicians who trained and practiced at the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Arlington Cancer Center offers more than 150 years of combined research, teaching and practical experience in treating solid tumors, blood cancers and blood disorders at some of the premier national and international cancer centers and medical schools. “We understand you want an innovative partner to help you make the most informed decisions about your care and your future,” Dr. DiStefano says. “We are with you every step of your treatment journey so you can be there for the special moments in your life.” In addition to Dr. DiStefano, Arlington Cancer Center features Medical Oncologists John Adams, D.O.; Barry Firstenberg, D.O.; Karel Dicke, M.D., Ph.D.; and Anwar Khurshid, M.D. Radiation Oncologist Chad Amosson, M.D., and Radiologists Neelu Gandhi, M.D., and Mandar Joshi, M.D., round out the staff, which provides state-of-the-industry treatment in the areas of medical oncology, chemotherapy, an infusion center, immunotherapy, high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell infusion.

Other services offered at the center include imaging (including X-ray; CT scan; MRI; Nuclear scans and PET scan, bone density), IMRT Radiation Therapy and Steriotactic Radiosurgery. Dr. DiStefano says he and his team have devoted their careers to finding the best ways to battle cancer, often calling on the latest technologies to help patients deal with the disease more effectively. For example, the center uses biogenetic mutation analysis and molecular markers to help determine the best treatment for patients with poor prognostic cancers. The treatments also help patients with cancers that have no good therapy known and patients with cancers that have not responded to chemotherapy. “We also use radiation techniques to limit the dose to normal tissues and take a multimodal approach to therapy,” Dr. DiStefano says, adding that everything the center does is geared to each patient’s personal needs and tastes. “Our care is directed to the individual patient and their circumstance. It’s not a cookie-cutter approach.” Dr. DiStefano and his fellow oncology professionals at the center understand that patients want and need a partner that will have their best interests at heart. “That’s why we offer a comprehensive outpatient environment and take pride in providing diagnosis, treatment, education and support services to adult cancer patients from around the world,” he says.

Arlington Cancer Center • 906 W. Randol Mill Road • 817-261-4906 • arlingtoncancercenter.com 30

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Obstetrics/Gynecology

Women’s Health Services now in two Arlington locations: Women caring for women Women’s Health Services announces the addition of our newest physician, Dr Jessica Brown. Originally from Houston, she attended Baylor University where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. Dr. Brown completed both medical school and her OB/Gyn residency training at University of Texas at Southwestern. She and her husband, Paul, have spent the last eight years in Dallas and are excited to become part of the Arlington community.

Dr. Jessica Brown

When she was in medical school, Dr Brown met her husband, Paul, who she married during her residency training. Her husband is a financial advisor in the DFW Metroplex. In her spare time, she thoroughly enjoys traveling, learning about different cultures and trying new cuisines. A honest and friendly physician - patient relationship is important for Dr Brown. She enjoys educating her patients so that they can take ownership of their health. She enjoys all aspects of obstetrics and gynecology. She has special interests in adolescent and pediatric gynecology, family planning, holistic health and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Brown is accepting new patients at both the North and South office locations of Women’s Health Services. The office locations of Women’s Health Services are: 1001 N. Waldrop, Suite 505 and 5005 S. Cooper, Suite 275. Call 817-277-9415 or book your appointment with us on-line at www.womenshealthservices.com.

North Office:

South Office:

1001 N. Waldrop, Suite 505 Arlington, TX 76012

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

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

Podiatry

Photo courtesy of Accent Podiatry

The Accent Podiatry health care team (from left to right): Dharmesh “Dan” Bhakta DPM, FACFAS; Shae Paschal, DPM, FACFAS; Jinal Mehta, DPM; Steve Silvey, LPT, CWC; and Keyvan Ganz, DPM, FACFAS

Accent Podiatry Associates

r. Dharmesh “Dan” Bhakta began his practice at Accent Podiatry Associates 16 years ago, and from day one he has been dedicated to establishing a new standard for providing the highest quality of care in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. From offices in Arlington and Mansfield, Accent Podiatry Associates features experienced doctors who are board certified/eligible by American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. They, along with other health care providers and staff members, have helped establish the practice as a patient-dedicated solution for people experiencing foot and ankle issues. The team of doctors includes Dharmesh Bhakta, DPM FACFAS; Keyvan Ganz, DPM FACFAS; Shae Paschal, DPM FACFAS; Jinal Mehta, DPM; and Steve Silvey, LPT, CWC. They work with a 25-person staff that shares the physicians’ quest to provide unparalleled support to those who need their help. “We believe that all patients deserve the highest quality medical care,” Dr. Bhakta says. “This quality is built on a foundation of thorough communication between the physician and the patient; highly trained, skillful providers; a caring, compassionate environment and current, state-of-the-art treatments.” Accent Podiatry Associates provides state-of-the-art medical and surgical advances that can improve the quality of life from both a foot and ankle standpoint, as well as overall well being. The practice provides care to patients of all ages for any foot and ankle issue, including (but not limited to): bunions, heel

pain, hammer toes, trauma (sprains, tears, fractures), ingrown toenails, feet and gait abnormalities and fungal treatments, including laser. The team also cares for children with flat feet and gait abnormalities, including orthotics and surgical repair. Diabetic care entails prevention and maintenance, including neuropathy and circulation testing, neuropathy repair, diabetic shoes and hosiery. “At Accent Podiatry, we make immediate appointments for our new patients so they don’t wait weeks to be seen, likely worsening their condition,” Dr. Bhakta says. “Upon first visit patients are met with an entirely electronic medical records system, a warm, friendly staff, a state-of-the art facility, and a comprehensive exam. Our doctors and medical assistants spend a lengthy amount of time listening to patients to understand their problems, all working together to a solution. We want our patients to be an active part of the healing process and our focus on educating patients about their conditions ensures best prevention of future problems. Literature is provided to reiterate what was discussed, and to address additional information and patients’ further questions.” Dr. Bhakta and the team think of their practice – staff and patients – as a family. “We take the time to get to know our patients, allowing us to truly understand the complexity of the problem, and to provide the best support and answers to address and fulfill needs,” he says. “We strive to be prompt and work in a timely fashion, because we respect patients’ time and feelings. We always strive to do and be our best.”

Accent Podiatry Associates Arlington: 3050 S. Center St., Suite 140, 817-557-1006 • Mansfield: 221 Regency Pkwy, Suite 117, 817-477-3611 • accentpodiatry.com 32

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

FIGHT CANCER

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TEXAS ONCOLOGY–ARLINGTON SOUTH 515 W. Mayfield Road, Suite 101 Arlington, TX 76014 • 817-664-4400 TEXAS ONCOLOGY–ARLINGTON NORTH 902 W. Randol Mill Road, Suite 150 Arlington, TX 76012 • 817-664-9600

1-888-864-4226 • www.TexasOncology.com

Plastic Surgery

Dr. Mark Bishara and the team at The Paragon Plastic Surgery & Med-Spa Photo courtesy of Dr. Mark Bishara

The paragon Plastic surgery & Med-Spa

lways at the innovative forefront, The Paragon Plasic Surgery & Med-Spa offers a wide range of procedures for patients hoping to improve the way they look and feel. Two, in particular, are popular with patients looking to start the new year off right, says Dr. Mark Bishara. “We’re seeing patients taking advantage of two procedures, specifically: neck lifting and liposuction of the abdomen and flanks,” says Dr. Bishara, founder of the practice, which has locations throughout North Texas, including its “flagship” office in Mansfield. “These are the two most popular procedures in our practice. We use a power-assisted liposuction device that provides better results than conventional methods. We also perform neck lift procedures over about two hours, and the recovery for both is about a week.” Last year, The Paragon Plastic Surgery & Med-Spa celebrated the fourth anniversary of the Mansfield facility, a beautiful, 8,200 square-foot facility located on two-and-a-half acres. It has four operating rooms, multi-bay recovery, two private preoperative rooms, three injection rooms and three spa treatment rooms. There Bishara, an M.D. who has practiced cosmetic surgery in North Texas since 2009, heads a group of surgeons, nurses, nurse anesthetists, aestheticians, surgical assistants and a support staff that includes three robots (“junior partners,” he jokingly calls them). Ben Gbulie, M.D., FACS, a board certified plastic surgeon, was recruited from Tennessee to join the Paragon faculty and began his cosmetic practice in Mansfield in January. Jeremy Parcels, M.D., has joined the staff and performs procedures related to weight reduction in obese patients.

Collectively, The Paragon team offers a wide variety of cosmetic and corrective services for both women and men, including: breast augmentation, tummy tucks, liposuction, facelifts and eyelid lifts, rhinoplasty, robot hair restoration, Botox and fillers. To achieve state-of-the-art results for patients from around the world Dr. Bishara and the Paragon team stay on top of the latest medical technology. To that end, the practice calls on the robots for the revolutionary ARTAS hair restoration process. Dr. Bishara is one of fewer than 220 Diplomats of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgeons worldwide and was the first doctor in Texas to acquire the ARTAS system. With seven years of robotic experience, he has performed more procedures with them than anyone in the world – more than 1.2 million grafts transplanted. In addition to the hair transplant technology, Dr. Bishara and the staff also use new lasers and cutting-edge gel implants for breast augmentation. Whether patients come to him for enhancement or corrective cosmetic surgery, Dr. Bishara takes pride in his work. His patients, in turn, take pride in how they look and feel after undergoing the various treatments and procedures. “Anytime you can help make a dramatic, positive impact on someone’s life, it is very gratifying,” Dr. Bishara says. To enhance the experience for his patients, Dr. Bishara often offers friendly perks. “Patients can’t wait for Wrinkle Free Wednesday,” he says. “A recurrent theme is that we have an amazing and kind front office staff. We pride ourselves on customer service.”

The Paragon Plastic Surgery & Med-Spa • 1101 Matlock Road, Mansfield • 817-473-2120 • markbisharamd.com 34

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Easing

Joint Pain

When the Weather Changes

eople have talked about feeling weather changes in their bones since ancient times. Multiple published studies by modern-day researchers support patients’ experiences with aching knees, hips, shoulders and backs when the temperature drops. A 2007 study by the Division of Rheumatology at Tufts Medical Center in Boston found that every 10-degree temperature drop corresponded with reported incremental increases in arthritic pain. In a 2014 study of osteoarthritis patients, 67 percent said they were weather sensitive and reported more overall joint pain than participants who were not sensitive to weather changes. A study in 2015 found significant links between humidity, temperature and joint pain that were stronger in colder weather. Change in barometric pressure is the apparent key. As air pressure lowers, there is a micro expansion of bodily tissues and fluids, just enough to increase pressure on connective tissues, bursa (fluid sacs) and sensitive nerve endings in arthritic or injured joints. “The general consensus from studies is that changes in barometric pressure, temperature and humidity can increase sensitivity to joint pain,” says Shane Seroyer, MD, medical director of joint reconstruction at Medical City Arlington. “Though some newer studies suggest increases in perceived pain may be more a psychological reaction to inclement weather or due in part to reduced activity because of staying indoors, it doesn’t make the pain any less real to patients.“ Dr. Seroyer explains that managing joint pain is a matter of degrees. “We always start with the most conservative treatment options. When those are no longer effective, patients should talk to their doctor to see if joint replacement is an option,“ he advises. The orthopedic surgeons at The Joint Replacement Center at Medical City Arlington are recognized for their expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal system disorders and trusted for their skill in performing total knee and hip replacement, shoulder repair and other orthopedic services.

Among the procedures performed is minimally invasive surgery for faster recovery time, reduced pain, less scarring and improved accuracy in joint alignment to help achieve a better range of motion. Patients receive comprehensive, personal and highly coordinated care every step of the way from The Joint Replacement Center’s multidisciplinary team that includes specialized orthopedic nurses and physical therapists. The hospital’s Joint Replacement wing is designed with private rooms and a rehabilitation gym to help patients quickly get on the road to recovery. A leader in sports medicine and the official health system of the Texas Rangers, Medical City Healthcare offers personalized treatment options and advanced technology for total joint health. Pain Relief Tips for Any Season People with joint pain may find some relief by following these tips: • Dress for the weather to protect affected joints from the cold. • Use compression wraps or sports apparel to increase circulation around affected joints. • Reduce pressure on joints by maintaining a healthy weight. • Support bone health with a diet rich in vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids (like walnuts and salmon). • Use ice packs or hot compresses to ease achy joints. • Improve joint flexibility with regular, low-impact exercise. • Quit smoking, which causes stress on connective tissues. • Try acupuncture or massage to help relieve pain.

If you are experiencing joint pain, take our Joint Health Assessment at MedicalCityOrthopedics.com or call (844) 374-1126 to find an orthopedic specialist near you.

Hospital Baylor Orthopedic and Spine Hospital at Arlington is the only orthopedic surgery and specialty hospital of its kind in the DFW Metroplex.

Photo courtesy of BOSHA

Baylor Orthopedic and spine hospital at arlington: Getting You Back to Doing What You Love in No Time

aylor Orthopedic and Spine Hospital at Arlington is a unique facility specializing in comprehensive outpatient and inpatient treatment of orthopedic and spine disorders. In fact, it’s the only orthopedic surgery and specialty hospital of its kind in Dallas/Fort Worth, bringing experts close to home. In addition to spine care, Baylor Arlington provides unsurpassed treatment for injuries of the hips, knees, ankles, shoulders, back and hands, from simple strains to broken bones to the need for full joint replacement. Baylor Arlington’s 24 staff physicians focus on attentive, patient-centered care, actively involving patients and their families in each step and decision of their treatment. Because the entire staff is focused strictly on orthopedic and spine care, patients receive a level of care and expertise that’s unmatched by any other area hospital. Baylor Arlington boasts 10 operating rooms, a full-service ER, complete diagnostic imaging capabilities and on-site physical therapy, rehab and a new Pain Management Center. Its most recent expansion was completed in December 2016, and included nine new post-anesthesia care units (PACUs) for patient recovery after surgery, in addition to four new operating rooms. The hospital also added two new admission areas, a relocated emergency entrance with dedicated admissions area, and increased parking. The expansion also includes a new, dedicated Pain Management Center, offering injections, epidurals and other treatments for patients being treated for chronic pain. “Our goal is to provide a level of patient-focused care, understanding, diagnosis and treatment of spine and orthopedic issues that typical hospitals

can’t,” said Allan Beck, Chief Executive Officer at Baylor Arlington. “With so many on-site services like imaging, physical therapy, rehab and pain management, we offer convenience along with expert orthopedic care. This means our patients can get back to doing what they love with as little down time as possible.” Baylor Arlington also takes pride in making their patients’ visits pleasant, whether for inpatient or outpatient treatment. Built in 2010, this boutique hospital offers oversized private guest rooms and the BOSHA Bistro, a full-service restaurant offering a fresh, chef-prepared daily breakfast, lunch and dinner for patients and guests. Patients staying in the hospital can enjoy exceptional hotellike room service with prepared-to-order meals that meet physician guidelines and aid in improving health and recovery. “The entire team at Baylor Arlington was wonderfully caring and attentive,” said patient Denise Stairs. “The facility was gorgeous, the care was exceptional and even the food was amazing! I have had a wonderful recovery.” The hospital also offers free valet parking and various online and on-site patient education programs to enhance treatment. In addition, patients can tap into a convenient online portal to access their medical records and forms. Baylor Arlington is centrally located near the Highlands Shopping Center in Arlington, Texas, making it convenient for patients from across the Metroplex and beyond. Visit www.baylorarlington.com for more information and a complete list of physicians and services.

Baylor Orthopedic and Spine Hospital at Arlington • 707 Highlander Blvd. • 855-41-ORTHO • baylorarlington.com 36

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

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arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Audiology

Melissa Danchak Kos/danchak audiology & Hearing aids

Photo courtesy of Kos/Danchak

Melissa Danchak

“We have over 50 5 star reviews on Google, Facebook and healthyhearing.com – that gives those in need of hearing health care services a sense of confidence in us before they visit with us.“

elissa Danchak is the owner of Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids and she – along with Drs. Marc Gracia and Alexandra Harris – helps people hear the best they can every day! “I began working at KDA in 1997, and I have owned the practice since 2002,” she says. “Susanne Kos, the original owner of the practice, was very well respected and trusted by many area physicians. Those physicians referred patients to her on a monthly basis and continue to refer to us today. We are proud and certainly humbled by the trust these physicians place in us and maybe even more excited than anything else as physicians are paying close attention to the hearing health care needs of their patients - more than ever before! This practice has been helping people in North Texas hear the best they can for over 32 years. We’ve seen – and unfortunately continue to see – cheap imitations of hearing care come and go. We believe the consistency of these physicians referring to us has to do with our education, experience and success in helping people hear better.” Danchak says there are two main reasons that separate her practice from others in the area that provide audiology testing and hearing aid dispensing services. “First,” she says, “we know that, in general, people want good, consistent service. They want to meet with professionals that have proven their value to the community. We have over 50 5 star reviews on Google, Facebook and healthyhearing.com – that gives those in need of hearing health care services a sense of confidence in us before they visit with us. Second, we provide the most comprehensive hearing health care program in North Texas. Our Complete Hearing Health Care Program includes all of the follow-up services someone needs to be successful with their investment in better hearing and with Kos/Danchak Audiology - including free batteries for the lifetime of your hearing aids!” The mission at Kos/Danchak Audiology is to provide comprehensive and individual hearing health care, while building long-term relationships with patients and their families based upon honesty, integrity, and respect. “We have over 32 successful years helping people hear better,” says Danchak. “Physicians in and around our community trust us. Our current patients refer their friends and family members to us every day. Our goal is to live our mission each day with the people we meet with. To walk with our patients along their better hearing journey, providing them, and their loved ones, with a better hearing experience for life.”

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

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Internal medicine

Hospital Methodist Mansfield Medical Center

Photo: Southern Flair Photography

The MD and NP clinicians at Pleasant Ridge Internal Medicine

Photo courtesy of MMMC

methodist mansfield medical center

pleasant ridge internal medicine E

stablished by Theresa Stretch, MD, Pleasant Ridge Internal Medicine (PRIM) opened in Arlington as a brand new privately owned and operated adult medicine clinic in January 2011. In April 2017, Dr. Stretch designed and built a second clinic in neighboring Grand Prairie. Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Dr. Stretch expanded her medical team to include Chelsea Doyen, MD, Board Certified in Family Practice, and Priya Vadivelu, MD, Board Certified in Internal Medicine. Together with Nurse Practitioners Heather Rich, Bunmi Awe, Jessica Watson, and Marie Murphy, this dynamic medical team provides primary care and management of chronic conditions for patients ages 17 and older. Dedicated to providing a personal element to your care, Pleasant Ridge Internal Medicine remains a privately owned and operated clinic and is here to partner with you for your healthcare needs. Our practices offer primary care and prevention, diagnosis and management of chronic conditions, treatment of acute illnesses, personalized health services, and minor procedures. Our services include annual physicals, well-women visits, well-men visits, immunizations, and health screenings for cancers and chronic diseases. Diagnosis and management of chronic conditions includes diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, thyroid disease, and numerous additional chronic conditions that affect adults. We also provide weight management and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. For your convenience, we additionally have labs within our clinics. Our clinical staff practices evidence-based medicine and relies on the most recent and relevant medical studies and guidelines. We are dedicated to listening to you, educating you, and working with you to empower you as a partner in your own care. Our office staff is dedicated to meeting your needs between appointments, to include scheduling appointments, billing your insurance, addressing your concerns, and facilitating communication with our clinicians. We are here to provide you the Quality of Care that you deserve. Call us to schedule your next appointment.

Pleasant Ridge Internal Medicine Arlington: 1806 W. Pleasant Ridge Road • 817-635-6363 Grand Prairie: 1004 S. Carrier Pkwy • 817-761-7876 pleasantridgemedicine.com

ethodist Mansfield Medical Center is celebrating 11 years of service in southeastern Tarrant County, continually advancing its care to meet the community’s growing needs. The 254-bed acute care hospital has added a third cardiac catheterization lab, 3-D mammography, the newest daVinci® Xi robotic surgical system for minimally invasive robotic procedures, and the Methodist Brain and Spine Institute for innovative treatment and care for neurological disorders and trauma. Accredited by The Joint Commission, Methodist Mansfield’s exceptional safety scores have outperformed others in key quality measures, and the hospital has achieved Magnet ® designation for excellence in nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the highest honor an organization can receive for professional nursing practice. Methodist Mansfield provides personalized healthcare services for every stage of life and every state of health. The dedicated healthcare professionals and physicians on the medical staff represent more than 60 specialties and are trained in some of the latest in medical technology and innovative treatments. This includes award-winning comprehensive cardiac and stroke care accredited by The Joint Commission, minimally invasive robot-assisted surgery, orthopedics, and rehabilitation. These dedicated healthcare professionals are consistently recognized nationally and locally for their dedication, excellence in healthcare, and commitment to the community in which they work. The hospital has become a preferred provider in the area: Methodist Mansfield has been voted Best Medical Facility, Best Maternity Ward and Best Emergency Department in the surrounding communities. Methodist Health System is also the first hospital system in Texas to become a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network. Doctors at Methodist Mansfield are collaborating with physicians at Mayo Clinic, working together to share best practices and providing high-quality care, right here at home. Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System or Methodist Mansfield Medical Center. Methodist Health System complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center 2700 E. Broad St., Mansfield • 682-242-2000 methodisthealthsystem.org/mansfield arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Senior Home Care

Dentistry

Jackilyn Dang DMD D

Photo: VisitingAngels.com/Arlington

Visiting Angels of Arlington, TeXas V

isiting Angels Arlington,Texas is a locally owned, trusted resource for senior home care services. Visiting Angels provides non-medical home care to seniors and the disabled in Arlington, Burleson, Kennedale, Mansfield, Pantego and throughout Southern Tarrant County. Julie Amendola, owner/director of the Arlington Visiting Angels franchise, says the experienced home caregivers from Visiting Angels are adept at helping your loved one feel at ease while receiving senior care. “All of the agency’s Angel companions have prior experience working with elderly clients,” she says. “Visiting Angels chooses providers who are compassionate and who have a strong desire to treat their clients with dignity and respect.” Studies have shown that seniors thrive more when living in their own home as opposed to living in a nursing center. Along with excellent senior home care, Visiting Angels helps eliminate the stress and worry family members experience over the care of their elderly loved ones. Seniors are also comforted and feel at ease knowing that a Visiting Angels caregiver will be there to assist any time, day or night without changing their routines. “Each of our Angel companions has been through our rigourous screening process prior to joining our agency,” Amendola says. “We complete background and criminal history checks, past employment verification, and look for experience working with the elderly and disabled in a home environment.” Services provided by Visiting Angels include: hourly care, 24/7 multiple-shift care, live-in care, temporary and long-term care, and weekend and holiday care – all at an affordable hourly rate. Types of service include: “Activities of Daily Living” (ADL), custodial care, assistance in dressing, bathing/showering, medication reminders, hospice support, meal preparation, light housekeeping, errands, shopping, walks, doctor visits, companionship, respite for family caregivers and hygiene assistance.

Visiting Angels of Arlington, Texas 1601 E. Lamar Blvd., #109 • 817-795-6316 VisitingAngels.com/Arlington/home 40

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

r. Jackilyn Dang started Great Oak Dental in spring 2013 and added a second practice, Legacy Park Dental, nearly two years ago. Dr. Dang and her staff provide the utmost care in blending compassion and expertise as part of each patient’s treatment plan. During a patient’s first visit to either office, the staff always begins with a full and comprehensive exam. They will go over current medical history, existing dental restorations, and the patient’s current periodontal health. From there, they customize a treatment plan that the patient understands and feels comfortable with. “It’s important for our patients to be fully educated about their dental options, and we never want our patients to feel rushed or to be afraid to ask questions,” Dr. Dang says. Dr. Dang, who has practiced dentistry for just shy of a decade, says she and the entire staff are dedicated to a professional philosophy that puts the patient first. “We take the time to educate and inform our patients about Dr. Jackilyn Dang their financial options and procedures so they can make the best decision possible for themselves,” she says. Great Oak Dental and Legacy Park Dental are known for the compassionate care provided by the entire staff, as well as for their use of cutting-edge technology. Dr. Dang recently began offering MTM® Clear•Aligner, which is a virtually undetectable way to align a smile without traditional braces. The surprisingly affordable Clear Aligner uses clear, removable aligners to correct slight misalignments (such as crowding or gaps). Each aligner is customfabricated, per the treatment plan arranged between the patient and Dr. Dang, to progressively advance teeth into their ideal position, leaving patients with a beautiful smile. The practices also provide other services, such as implants, braces, veneers and bonding, laser dentistry, crowns and bridges, partials and dentures, and general dentistry. Dr. Dang says both Great Oak Dental and Legacy Park Dental are currently accepting new patients.

Great Oak Dental 3851 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd., #101 • 817-789-4488 Legacy Park Dental 1001 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd., #129 • 817-789-4480 greatoakdental.com • legacyparkdental.com

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arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON 41 1/23/2018 TODAY 1:53:54 PM

Health / Fitness

Healthy is as healthy does Here are six measures you can take to help stave off illnesses and consistently stay out of harm’s way

s 2018 has rapidly evolved into the “Year of the Flu,” the focus on maintaining good health has become a higher priority all over the country. Taking steps to protect your health is the best way to prevent disease and other conditions. Health screenings, vaccines, and guarding yourself from germs and bugs can help keep you feeling your best. According to The National Institutes of Health, here are six ways to ensure a healthier you: Get screened for diseases Some screenings can reduce your risk of dying from a disease. But sometimes, experts say, a test may cause more harm than good. Before you get a test, talk with your doctor about the possible benefits and harms to help you decide what’s best for your health. If you’re at risk for certain health conditions – because of a family history or lifestyle exposures, like smoking – you may choose to have screenings more regularly. Guard against germs For nearly a century, bacteria-fighting drugs known as antibiotics have helped to control and destroy many of the harmful bacteria that can make us sick. But these drugs don’t work at all against viruses, such as those that cause colds or flu. Learn how to protect yourself against germs in the environment. To block harmful germs, wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Also, maintain a healthy lifestyle – including proper diet, exercise, and good hygiene – to help prevent illness. Protect your body’s bacteria Microscopic creatures – including bacteria, fungi, and viruses – can make you ill. But what you may not realize is that trillions of microbes are living in and on your body right now. Most don’t harm you at all. We tend to focus on destroying bad microbes. But taking care of good ones may be even more important. To protect good microbes, don’t pressure your doctor to give you antibiotics. They may cause more harm than good. Don’t use antibacterial products you don’t need. Antibacterial soaps have little or no health benefit. 42

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Protect yourself and everyone else from disease We share more than food and culture within our homes and communities. We can also spread disease. Luckily, we live in a time when vaccines can protect us from many of the most serious illnesses. Staying current on your shots helps you – and your neighbors – avoid getting and spreading disease. To protect yourself and others from preventable diseases, stay up to date on shots for these 16 vaccine-preventable diseases: bacterial meningitis; chickenpox; diphtheria; haemophilus influenzae Type B; hepatitis A and hepatitis B; cervical and other cancers caused by human papillomavirus (HPV); influenza (flu); measles, mumps, and rubella; pertussis (whooping cough); pneumococcal pneumonia; rotavirus diarrhea; shingles and tetanus. Prevent mosquito-borne illnesses Most mosquito bites are relatively harmless. The itchy bumps often last for just a day or two after a mosquito has punctured your skin. But if the mosquito is carrying certain germs, like viruses or parasites, these pathogens might enter your blood during the bite and make you sick. But we can all take simple steps to avoid Photo: healthmagazine.news getting bit by those blood-sucking insects. To avoid mosquito bites, use insect repellents. Products containing DEET, picaridin, lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or IR3535 can be applied to skin. Follow label instructions. Also, cover up. When outside, wear long sleeves, pants, and socks. Mosquitoes may bite through thin fabric, so spray thin clothes with an EPA-registered repellent like permethrin. Don’t apply permethrin directly to skin. Block tick bites and Lyme disease When warm weather arrives, you might get the urge to walk barefoot through the grass. But before you stroll through your lawn or head out on a hiking trail, you’ll want to protect yourself and your loved ones from ticks that often lurk in tall grass, thick brush, and wooded areas. Many ticks carry disease, so do what you can to keep ticks from taking a bite out of you. To prevent tick bites and tick-borne diseases, help keep ticks off your skin by wearing long sleeves, long pants, and long socks. Ward off ticks by using an insect repellant that contains at least 20 percent DEET (for the skin) or permethrin (for clothes).

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Romance (and more)

to you, with love Here are nine great ways to celebrate this Valentine’s Day (and Week) • By Toni Randle Cook Mercury Chop House

alentine’s Day is around the corner! Don’t have anything planned for the holiday? No worries, we have you covered. There are a lot of things to do in Arlington on and around Valentine’s Day. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Tale As Old As Time Imagine the look on your petite princess’s face when she walks into the Bob Duncan Center to see it transformed into an enchanted ballroom! This will be the scene of the Daddy Daughter dance hosted by the City. This year’s theme is Beauty and the Beast. Individual tickets include a corsage, dinner and drinks, dessert, a parting gift and a professional photograph. A limo ride around Vandergriff Park is available for an additional cost. The event will be held from 7 - 9 p.m. on Feb. 9 and from 4 - 6 p.m. and 7 -9 p.m. on Feb. 10. But you better hurry; tickets always sell out! For more: naturallyfun.org/ddd2018

Love & Luxury When you want to show your loved one how special they are, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the spa! You can get a one-hour chocolate and cherry Rhonda Allison facial with milk mask at Great Skin Spa, 3851 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd., Suite 107. If you buy one, you will receive half off the price of the second. The spa is also offering specials on Brazilian waxes, teeth whitening and body wraps throughout February. For more: 817-567-2894 Give your Valentine a gold box, wrapped with a green ribbon – a gift certificate to The Sanford Spa & Salon, 506 N. Center St. The spa is

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

offering three luxurious packages: Sweet Love, Just the Way You Are and Dream Maker. All include lunch with wine or champagne. For more: 817-861-2129

Restaurant Romance Restaurant 506 (located in The Sanford House) will be serving a romantic prix fixe menu, in addition to items on its regular menu, on Valentine’s Day. If you can’t make it out during the week, the restaurant is offering the special menu through Saturday, Feb. 17, so you still have time to celebrate! For more: 817-861-2129 For a taste of Italy that has earned both a Taste of Arlington People’s Choice Award and distinction as “One of the Top 10 for Food in the Fort Worth Area” from Zagat Dallas-Fort Worth Restaurant Guide, you can take your date to Piccolo Mondo, 829 Lamar Boulevard East. For more: 817-265-9174 Reserve a table at Mercury Chophouse, 2221 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 910, and enjoy filet mignon with your choice of crab cake Oscar or lobster tail, all while taking in a panoramic view of Arlington’s Entertainment District. For more: 817-381-1157 You can bring your favorite bottle of wine to enjoy with your meal at Café Sicilia Italian Restaurant, 7221 Matlock Road. The menu includes pizza, pasta, chicken, veal and seafood. If you prefer to stay home for the holiday, Café Sicilia offers delivery to a limited area. For more: 817-419-2800

Enjoy the Arts (of Various Sorts) Timeless Concerts will feature beautiful and romantic music from around the world, comedy and previews of upcoming concerts

Crystal Canyon Natural Area

Timeless Concerts

during its Valentine Special Fundraiser event at 8 p.m. on Feb. 10. The event will be held at the Arlington Museum of Art (201 W. Main St.). Schedule performers include tenors Don O’Neal LeBlanc and Sergio Cepeda, soprano Judith Rodriguez and the infamously funny Colleen Hughes Mallette, along with the Chenoweth-Kang-Hood trio (violin, piano and cello). After the hour-long concert, attendees can enjoy the post-concert party, with complementary buffet of desserts/fruit/ cheese and wine/soft drinks, or you may BYOB. For more: timelessconcerts.com

A Hidden “Gem”

Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but searching for anything that sparkles can also be fun! The City of Arlington is home to more than 90 parks. One of the newest is the Crystal Canyon Natural Area in North Arlington (1000 Brown Blvd.). It’s an actual canyon that was carved by water, leaving behind marine shales, siltstones, mudstone containing inner beds of calcareous fossil clams, gypsum layers and fine-grain sandstone. The natural area has been called a “geology lover’s paradise.” But even those with little geological background will enjoy a walk along the trail (if the weather cooperates) to search for crystals! That’s right, selenite crystals have been found throughout canyon.

Shop Till You Drop Searching for the perfect gift? Then you definitely want to step into Gracie Lane (720 S Cooper St.). Whether you are looking for a specialty piece or a handcrafted design, you are sure to find it at this collection of unique shops. Gracie Lane is hosting a Valentine’s Day themed Sip and

UTA Planetarium

Shop from 6 - 8 p.m. on Feb. 8. You can browse the aisles while sipping on wine and enjoying chocolate. There will also be a sweetheart giveaway and boutique discounts. For more: 817-468-5263

Sweet Treats Nothing Bundt Cakes (839 E. Lamar Blvd. and 5001 S. Cooper St.) has special Valentine’s designs available. You can buy the Love Hearts or White Hearts (which are both packages of mini bundt cakes) or the larger Love You to Pieces cake topped with a red satin bow and pink heart puzzle. Add a balloon bouquet for a special touch! Choose from 10 different flavors including red velvet, chocolate chip, cinnamon swirl, classic vanilla and the featured chocolate turtle. If you stop in the store, you can also find unique gifts, charming cards and inspired decorator items. For more: 817-583-6522; 817-557-2253

Star Gazing with Your Sweetheart The Planetarium at UT Arlington is hosting its annual “Romancing the Stars” event on Valentine’s Day. You can see the show at 5 p.m. or 7 p.m. A reception with snacks and drinks will be held in between the two shows at 6 p.m. The Planetarium is not doing anything on the weekends surrounding the holiday. For more: 817-272-1183

When Your Other True Love is Sports The weekend before Valentine’s Day, there will be a doubleheader at College Park Center at the University of Texas at Arlington. Cheer on both the women’s and men’s basketball teams as they take on Texas State. The women’s game is at 2 p.m. The men will start at 4:15 p.m. For more: 817-272-9595

arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Classic Cars

Left: John Ridings Lee displays his 1937 Type 57C Rollback Atalante Bugatti – one of only three like it in the world. Below left: Lee stands with just some of the trophies he has won over the years while pursuing his hobby. An auto artist created it for him to commemorate his racing and touring of Alfa Romeo vehicles.

A GEM WITH WHEELS

Photos: Richard Greene

This automobile is among the world’s most valuable collections • By Richard Greene

“T

hey built only three exactly like mine,” John Ridings Lee proudly describes. “One of the other two is in Jay Leno’s Garage, and the other belongs to Ralph Lauren. “But what is even more special to me is that mine was delivered to its first owner, Francois Joussey in Paris, by Ettore Bugatti (the famous French car manufacturer of high performance automobiles) on the very same day that I was delivered into the world by my mother on May 1, 1937. When I learned of that about five years ago, I knew I must have it as my own!” The 1937 Type 57C Rollback Atalante Bugatti was part of the Schlumberger Art Collection when John located it after the car had spent decades on road tours and international Concours d’Elegance events. “I had it restored – a 16-month long project – and have taken it to Pebble Beach, Amelia Island and Bagatelle Park in Paris,” he says. All three of those shows are premier events in the world of classic cars. The trophies it won at each are evidence of how popular this vehicle is with so many who love the art and engineering of extraordinary pre-war vehicles. Visitors to this year’s Concours d’Elegance of Texas to be held on April 22 in Arlington will be able to see it in person. Among the features that set this Bugatti apart from others of the era is a rollback top (think of a roll top desk), a golf club compartment, and fitted luggage

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

“Mine was delivered to its first owner, Francois Joussey in Paris, by Ettore Bugatti on the very same day that I was delivered into the world by my mother on May 1, 1937. When I learned of that, I knew I must have it as my own!”

This rare and beautiful driving machine has only two “siblings” – one is owned by Jay Leno, and the other belongs to Ralph Lauren.

arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Everything about this Bugatti reflects luxury and state-of-the-art craftsmanship, which helps explain why the car is worth millions of dollars.

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

arrangement in the rear. The dashboard is arrayed with Jaeger instruments, including a special clock with dual split second hands to precisely record speed trials and more. Under the hood is a straight-eight, supercharged engine delivering 260 horsepower via a four-speed standard transmission. Bugattis are renowned the world over for their design beauty coupled with victories on the race track. John is especially proud of the owner’s manual that his wife Carole translated from French to English so all three of the owners of these cars could be informed about their maintenance and proper operation. The “Before Starting” instructions tell the driver that he will see before him, grouped on the instrument panel, the following controls: a knob to control the rear shock dampers, the master switch, the instrument group of ammeters, water temperature, oil pressure and fuel gage. Next there is the choke button, levers for spark advance and hand throttle and finally, a knob to control the front shock dampers. The “Starting Procedure” is a bit daunting: After ascertaining that the hand brake is set, and having checked water, oil, and gasoline level, place the gear shift in neutral, the spark advance in full retard, and the hand throttle half way open. After pressing the accelerator two or three times, introduce the key into the master switch and press all the way to the bottom: this energizes the starter.” By comparison, today’s instructions of pressing the start button, shift into drive, and be on your way seem somewhat a lesser experience. The value of the 1930’s era Bugatti automobiles range far and wide between mid-six figure numbers for those among many to mid and high millions of dollars for the rare ones. Like John’s. That matters little to him because his car is not for sale. “How could you sell a car that was delivered on the same day that you were delivered?” he asks. His collection includes several other rare classics of other makes and models but he still finds time to report to his Dallas business office every morning. Between trips to participate in vintage auto rallying and racing events in the U.S. and Europe, his insurance brokerage business thrives on providing specialized coverage to a large clientele. After spending some time with him, it’s hard to tell if his passion for business or that of owning some very special classic cars is his greatest. Since the one makes the other possible, I think we can conclude it’s a tie.

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Local Homes

HOME SWEET! HOME Camner and Kelly Rubin just moved into their custom-built dwelling, but they already feel as if they’re right at home

raditionally in this space you see elegant, even lavish, dwellings accessorized to the max. Generally, the adornments alone help explain why the exclamation point has been attached to the middle word of the headline. This month, we’re taking a different perspective. Make no mistake – there’s plenty of lavish and ample !!! associated with the new Spanish-style, North Texas home of Camner and Kelly Rubin. All you have to do is look at the photos to discern that. But the images you see here also depict something you might suspect: This home is brand new, and the Rubins are still in the process of turning their custom design – executed to near perfection by Mansfield Custom Homes – into a finished dream. To that end, the following statistics offer a solid foundation to complement what was constructed on the home’s solid foundation: • The house sits on 9.3 acres. • It comprises 5,500 square feet on the house proper and has two additional outdoor living areas that bump the total to 7,000 square feet. • There’s a pool/spa, five bedrooms and five and a half baths, two 52

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

The new home of Camner and Kelly Rubin sits on a 9.3-acre lot, so there’s plenty of room to roam outside. And inside, the 5,500 square feet of living space provide a spacious and comfortable retreat.

There is plenty for the Rubins to love about their new house, and Kelly is especially partial to the kitchen area and the bathtub that has its own space.

Photos courtesy of Julie Short/Mansfield Custom Homes

arlingtontoday.com â&#x20AC;˘ February 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ ARLINGTON TODAY

“Because Mansfield Custom Homes created this house custom for us, we love everything about it.”

Inside and outside, the Rubins’ new Spanish-style house contains custom touches that give it a distinct look and feel.

fireplaces (one indoor and one outside), a gym, an inner courtyard, a large play/media room, a spa-style master bath, and an outdoor kitchen and living room. “We built the house from the ground up,” says Camner. “Because [Mansfield Custom Homes] created it custom for us we love everything about it.” “Everything” includes an also-new neighborhood, which attracted the Rubins because of the availability of large lots and easy access to downtown Dallas. Camner doesn’t make the trek there for work anymore. The former financial adviser sold his practice to become a stay-at-home father with his 2-year-old son and an expected daughter due next month. Kelly is a corporate tax attorney. The two of them moved into their new dwelling upon its completion in December and already love what it offers and what it promises to offer. Of course, there’s the aforementioned neighborhood. “The other homes in our area are generally on large lots, as well,” Camner says. “It gives us the feeling of being in the country while being close to the city.” He also is enamored with the large yard and open space it allows. “My wife’s favorite part is tied between the kitchen and the master

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

bath – the kitchen because she likes her Viking Tuscany range and the countertops (and the interaction between them) and the master bath because she likes her large, granite bathtub with view of the garden. The tub was put in a space where it feels like the outdoors. Our son’s favorite room is his large playroom with carpeted floors he can run and tumble on.” As the Rubins have been filling the spacious interiors with furniture and accessories, they’ve sought input from Stephanie Kratz of Stephanie Kratz Interiors, who also helped with decorating. The custom construction and the personal additions that do and will adorn the inside and outside of the property have the couple excited about what their home will become over time. “We have not had the opportunity to entertain yet, but during poor weather our large living room has ample space for entertaining,” Camner says. “Once it becomes nice out we are looking forward to entertaining on our outdoor living room with adjacent kitchen.” Though the Rubins haven’t spent much time in their abode, they feel right at home. “We already have a lot of great memories of playing with our son in the play room,” Camner says. “We would like to make more of those going forward.”

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arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Local Heroes

STILL THE CHAMP Mansfield’s Troy Dorsey has moved from winning titles to winning hearts and souls • By Amanda Rogers

roy Dorsey started taking karate lessons when he was 11 years old after getting bullied at school. After earning two world boxing crowns, four world kickboxing titles and a world karate championship, no one picks on Dorsey anymore. “I was small for my age,” says Dorsey, 55, who stands 5-foot5 3/4. “Back then we just fought back. I started taking karate between the fifth and sixth grade. I went back to school and they picked on me, and I hit them. They said, ‘He’ll fight back,’ so they left me alone.” For the next two decades, Dorsey fought back still, earning the nickname “The Destroyer” for his aggressive style in the boxing ring. But for the past two decades – nearly – he has taught people how to avoid fighting by teaching them karate, self-discipline and character at his karate studio in downtown Mansfield. After starting karate lessons in 1974, the scrappy Mansfield native took up kickboxing five years later and within two years had won the Karate International Council of Kickboxing’s United States Featherweight Championship in 1983. In 1987,

he bagged the International Sport Karate Association World Bantamweight title. The championship journey had its roots in 1983, as Dorsey focused his attention on boxing, working with trainer Casey Malone. “A couple of guys I was training with were world champions,” he says. And Dorsey soon was, too. In 1989, he won the North American Boxing Federation’s Featherweight title, and two years later knocked out Alfred Rangel in the first round to win the International Boxing Federation’s Featherweight crown at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. By 1993, he was squaring off against “Golden Boy” Oscar de la Hoya in Las Vegas. But it was Dorsey’s own body that delivered the knockout punch. His sharp brow began to bleed – a recurring problem throughout his career – and the fight was stopped in the first round. “I was so mad,” he recalls. “I got a two-inch gash over my left eye. While I was getting sewn up in the emergency room, they told me about getting my brow bones shaved.”

Photo courtesy of Troy Dorsey

Mansfield’s Troy Dorsey has been a world champion in both boxing and karate. Now he teaches children how to be champions in life.

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Current photos: Amanda Rogers

So he did, in an effort to stop the bleeding. But Dorsey’s boxing career was on its last legs. “I put my poor wife and parents through a lot,” he says. “I got cut a lot, got busted up a lot.” Dorsey retired in 1998 and headed home to Mansfield, opening Troy Dorsey Karate & Fitness a year later inside the old Western Auto store at 115 N. Main St. His father, Warren, did all the remodeling. “From 1974 to 1983, I took karate across the street from where I am now,” he says. “Some people come full circle. I came full circle and across the street.” His original instructor, Jim Choate, had taken out a loan in 1981 to help Dorsey open his own studio in 1981. “He borrowed the money,” Dorsey says. “I paid it all back. I was 18.” When Dorsey walked away from the ring, he walked into a different life. “I would fight then party,” he says. “When I retired from fighting, I retired from drugs. I started thinking about where I was going to spend eternity. I believe in heaven and I believe in hell.” His mission was to teach karate, but also respect, self-control, good citizenship and responsibility. For almost 18 years, Dorsey has preached those principals to close to 4,000 students. He still teaches 15 to 20 classes with more than 200 current students. Despite his world titles and aggressive reputation in the ring, even his smallest students don’t worry about taking him on. “She thinks he’s a very nice man,” Monica Crust of Mansfield says of her daughter Merry, 8. “She’s not intimidated by him at all. She thinks he knows his stuff and he’s funny.” Dorsey’s reputation now is of a Christian man, says Christine Moreau of Arlington, whose son, Noah, 9, has been taking karate lessons at Dorsey’s studio for the past three years. “I think the kids have a lot of respect for him,” she says. “They’ll go home and YouTube some of his matches.” Dorsey is still winning respect. Last year, he earned his ninth degree black belt and was inducted into the World Kickboxing League Hall of Fame. For Anthony Escobedo, 22, of Arlington, Dorsey is remarkable for his accomplishments outside the ring. Escobedo started taking karate lessons when he was 7 years old. “I remember the first day I walked in here,” he says. “He had a huge smile and said hello. I remember that. It set an awesome vibe.” Escobedo now teaches at the studio, where his younger brother and sister recently earned their own black belts. “I see him as a father figure,” he says. “I don’t see him as a famous person.” So Escobedo says it’s kind of a surprise when people walk up and ask for Dorsey’s autograph. These days Dorsey is known more for spreading the word of God than for throwing a punch. “Most schools hesitate to talk about Jesus,” Escobedo says. “He doesn’t. I think that’s a bonus. He’s definitely a man you want to have in your life. He will always be there for you.”

Troy Dorsey operates Troy Dorsey Karate & Fitness in the heart of Mansfield.

Dorsey shows Iraliz Vargas a karate move.

Photo courtesy of Troy Dorsey

During his prime as a competitor Dorsey was a celebrity who knew celebrities, such as Chuck Norris. arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Picture-perfect Moments

Rick Coleman, Mayor Ron Jensen, Rick Herold and Michael Hays

Grand Prairie Mayor Ron Jensen addresses the crowd at Epic Waters.

Angelina Banegas and Allie Ward

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Snapshots from the Media Day announcing the grand opening of Epic Waters last month in Grand Prairie

Andrew Bryant and Mike Pappy at the Flow Rider water feature

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Roselle Pliego, Jennifer Hill, Beth McGee and Judy New

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Landry and Denise Harris try out the Yellow Jacket Drop water feature.

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44th Annual UTA Jazz Festival Feb 23-24

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arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Development

Texas Live! and all it entails – which is a lot – is captured in artist renderings on this and the next page.

look what’s on the horizon Construction is underway on the Texas Live! entertainment development, due to open later this year • By Bill Lace

o ahead, Arlington, pinch yourself. You’re not dreaming. It isn’t a mirage. Texas Live!, that long-promised, long-awaited dining, entertainment and hostelry complex by the Rangers’ ballpark, is under full-bore construction … no bull. Oh, wait. There is a bull – two, in fact. They’re the mechanical ones in the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Country Bar. That’s one of four eat and/or drink venues announced so far alongside Lockhart Smokehouse, Revolver Brewing and a restaurant by celebrity chef Guy Fiere. They’ll be housed in a seven-acre spread of entertainment spots and an upscale hotel/convention facility. Small wonder, then, that Arlington City Councilwoman Kathryn Wilemon labeled the mood at the formal groundbreaking last March as “exhilaration.” “We have looked forward for a long time to the development around that ballpark – quality, high-end development – and that’s what we’re getting,” she said. “We’re getting an extremely exciting new venue that I think we all deserve, and I think all the citizens of Arlington and all the worldwide visitors who will come here are going to be impressed and enjoy it.” 60

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Three primary entertainment venues have been announced: • Rangers Republic, described by the developer, The Cordish Companies, as a family-friendly “ultimate fan clubhouse,” with 30,000 square feet of entertainment and dining on two levels. • Live! Arena, a central, 35,000 square-foot gathering place also with multi-level dining and entertainment. • Arlington Backyard, an outdoor pavilion able to seat 5,000 patrons for events ranging from art exhibits to concerts to charity and community events. All this adds up to about 200,000 square feet and was supposed to be open for the Rangers’ home opener. That date has now been moved back to “late summer or early fall,” according to Blake Cordish, the developer’s CEO. But that’s actually good news because it doesn’t stem from any problems, but is due to an expansion of the project, namely the hotel. Loews Hotels announced in May that it would team with Cordish and the Rangers to add Live! by Loews, a 350-room facility with an attached 35,000 square-foot convention center. The hotel’s amenities include an event lawn overlooked by a 40-foot tower, an outdoor infinity edge pool and a rooftop terrace with meeting rooms and a

Images courtesy of The Cordish Companies

arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Construction on Texas Live! has been underway for several months and should be completed later this year.

Photo: The City of Arlington

large central area for private functions. The convention area will have ballroom/banquet room seating for 1,500 and an outdoor terrace overlooking Johnson Creek. The price tag is upwards of $400 million, $50 million of which will come from the city’s Arlington Tomorrow Foundation. The project has also qualified for assorted tax breaks. Worth waiting for? You bet, says Charlie Parker, Wilemon’s Council colleague. He recounts a promise for development around the stadium made in the early ‘90s as Arlington voters were pondering a tax increase to help fund it. He recalls the Glory Park venture that never got off the ground. “That was when ’08 happened, and we all know that money tightened up,” he says. “You couldn’t get anybody who was going to lend you money to do something of this stature.” Everything worked out for the best, Parker says. “If you wait long enough, you can see the mistakes that other people have made and you can avoid those,” he says, adding that the failure of Glory Park probably worked to the city’s ultimate advantage. “We get a truly great venue that I think is going to be 10 times better than what Glory Park ever would have accomplished.” Among the pieces to fall into place have been a rosier economic picture and the construction of AT&T Stadium. “It all really got started when we built the Cowboys’ stadium,” Wilemon says. “That’s what got us going. Now we’re getting another stadium and also the entertainment, restaurants, retail and hotel.” While there’s no cooperative agreement between Texas Live! and the Cowboys, it’s easy to envision football as well as baseball fans taking advantage. Imagine a vacation, or for Arlingtonians a stay-cation, including a first-class hotel, Texas Live!, a Major League Baseball game one day and an NFL game the next. But it’s a mistake, Parker says, to link Texas Live! only to game days.

“Game days are easy,” he says. “It’s the off days that are the challenge, and that’s where they (Cordish) come in with their management team. They’re very innovative.” He says Ballpark View in St. Louis, one of numerous Cordish developments around the country, might host a NASCAR watch party in the afternoon and then something like the Academy Awards the same night. Moreover, he says, Cordish is one of the nation’s leading talent promoters, and can rotate its artists through the various venues. “I would liken it to a combination of Sundance Square and Bass Hall in Fort Worth,” he says. What has city leaders really salivating, however, is the likelihood that the entertainment and hotel complex will be only the beginning. “The entertainment portion of a project really gives it a heartbeat,” says Cari Furman, Cordish’s director of communications. That heartbeat, she adds, can nurture the growth of the project. The company’s Kansas City Power and Light has gone from the original single block to seven, including two residential towers. St. Louis’ Ballpark View is seven times its original size. “This is the beginning,” Wilemon says, “and I think it’s only just going to be a domino effect that will continue until they can’t build anywhere else.” Some of those dominos are already falling. Parker points to a new Plains Capital Bank to be built at the corner of North Collins and Rogers Street, across from AT&T Stadium, and AISD’s combination performance center and natatorium going up on Division Street at the site of the old Eastern Star Home. And, while he won’t name names, he hints that “you’re also going to probably see other structures in and around the stadiums.” “This project is really special, and the timing is really special with the new ballpark opening right around the corner,” Furman says. “Arlington seems like it’s booming with new growth, not just in the entertainment district, but elsewhere, too.” “We couldn’t have done this at a better time,” Parker says of the simultaneous development of Texas Live! and the Rangers’ new stadium. “We think we’ve hit a very long ball, and I think it’s going out of the park.”

“We couldn’t have done this at a better time. We think we hit a very long ball, and I think it’s going out of the park.” 62

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

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arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Lifestyles

Photos: Karen Gavis

Color (especially purple) is the rage this year, and healthy living is another trend that will mark local gardens as spring unfolds.

2018 gardening trends Healthy-for-you plants and a hardy hue are expected to define this year’s local garden scene

orticulturalists nationwide have settled on an overall types of plants will typically come in various shades of green, gardening theme as well as a few trends that beginning Gotcher says people can look for ultra violet to be a standout color gardeners and longtime green thumbs can expect to see in 2018 since Pantone chose ultra violet as its color of the year. this year. “So purple is a thing,” she says. “[Pantone] will mix colors and “Basically, the overarching trend for 2018 is using gardening for create new ones. They pick a color of the year every year.” that kind of prescription for mental wellness,” says Calloway’s That yearly color choice is all pervasive, she says, and Nursery Marketing Director Kimberley Gotcher. determines the colors designers will use in things like clothing Gardening can relieve stress, help with blood pressure and put and cookware. Gotcher says some great plants that contain purple people in a better mood, she says, adding that indoor gardening include cabbage, pansies, kale and some shrubs that will arrive also has a few benefits. Gotcher points out that throughout the year. Kimberly Gotcher of Calloway’s Nursery indoor organic gardeners can enjoy cleaner air Another trend in gardening is notes that orchids will be big players in and healthy eating. simply to find plants that will grow local homes this year. For instance, since they know where their together easily so things aren’t so food is coming from, they can break off a piece regimented, she says. of a house plant, rinse it off with some water For cleaning the air indoors and then pop it in their mouth or in a pan. naturally, Gotcher recommends Gotcher says some great kitchen gardening sansevieria, a plant that has had a plant choices include rosemary, parsley, thyme, resurgence of popularity and that the mint, basil, cilantro and chives. “Once spring nursery bills as a tough, attractive really kicks off, we’ll have tables full of these plant requiring medium to bright herbs,” she says. light. Along with hanging air plants When growing and caring for edible plants, for meditation spaces, sansevieria’s just about all that is needed is water and maybe texture, style and air cleaning benefits some organic fertilizer, Gotcher notes. The “kind of fit where design is heading,” plants can be grown inside on a windowsill, Gotcher says. outside in a garden or in a container on a porch. “Orchids will have some color,” she For windowsill gardening, Gotcher suggests says. “And orchids just sort of have that a rectangular terra cotta pot with a saucer serene feel. You look at it, and you kind underneath. “Just as long they’re getting the of feel calm looking at it.” right sun conditions as other plants are, they’ll grow,” she says. Gotcher also says water features such as small ponds and When Calloway’s has televised cooking shows, the chefs literally fountains can be incorporated into gardens to create a calm, use plants sitting on the nursery’s shelf to cook with. While those soothing effect and add a little bit of extra serenity. “Orchids will have some color. And orchids just sort of have that serene feel. You look at it, and you kind of feel calm looking at it.”

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

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Picture-perfect Moments

Photos: Southern Flair Photography

Jane Ellis, Karen Williams and Mayor Jeff Williams at Jane’s 100th birthday party

Sarah Knottes, Dr. Aaron Reich and Brandee Kelley

Tim Maloney, Mary Jean Maloney and Robert Boyer

Scene

Snapshots from the 100th birthday celebration for Jane Ellis and from the St. Joseph Catholic School Geographic Bee

Dan and Linda Dipert visit with the guest of honor.

Photo courtesy of Monica Hurtado

Bonnie Watkins, Debbie Ericson, Peggy Martin and Linda Gipson

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Ryan Jimenez (center), an eighth grader at St Joseph Catholic School, won the school competition of the National Geographic Bee last month. He is pictured here with St. Joseph teachers Xavier Rodriguez and Jennifer Seed.

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Worthy Causes

Karin and Gary Morris with sons Jackson and Jameson

Kris and Lindsay Hawbaker and their children Hudson, Cooper and Haley with Richard Greene

Parin and Palak Parikh with daughter Kareena

Photos: Bruce Maxwell

Wajiha Rizvi and John Hill

Isham Pinto, McKanie McNamara and Jay Schmidt

Heather and Fernando Arredondo with Mary Jean and Tim Maloney and the Arredondo sons, Kaleb and Alex

Todd and Kaitlin Gonzales with Judy Rupay (left)

DREAMS DO COME TRUE The Texas Rangers/Greene Scholarship Program celebrates its 20th anniversary with a festive reunion

hen the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation created the innovative Richard Greene Scholarship Program in 1997, expectations were high that the initiative would result in successful careers and community leaders in the years to follow. Now with more than 100 alumni that have benefited from the program designed to identify a promising student with leadership potential from each of Arlington’s six high schools to annually participate in internships in local government and community service organizations, it’s apparent that the results have exceeded all those expectations. A 20th Reunion reception was recently held at the River Legacy’s Living Science Center, where relationships were renewed, new ones begun, and updates on life’s journeys were shared with each other and their community mentors. They were the ones who had worked

with the students during their senior year before they departed for colleges and universities literally across the country, from Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Princeton and Duke to Air Force and Naval Academies, and to Texas schools like Baylor, SMU, TCU, Texas Tech, the University of Texas, Texas A&M, UTA and many more. Sylvia Greene, who together with Rangers Foundation Executive Director Karen Morris share management responsibilities in the program, summarizes some of the career achievements that have developed: “Among the alumni (most of whom have advanced degrees), we now have six physicians; eight attorneys; four in government positions in D.C. and two U. S. military officers (a Navy pilot of the Year and the other in Cyber Security); 12 in health care including administrators, physician’s assistants, nursing, pharmacy, and the like; two firemen; nine working with non-profits; seven in education,

David Lam, Delrina Nguyen, Brian Gyamfi, Anjulie Moorhead, Dominic Edwards and Josefina Ghio

Phong Do, Ramzi Taim, Kaila Wherry, Tiara Lewis, Denise Nugyen and Huy Tran

Photos: Bruce Maxwell

Tobi Lipede, Solomon Sonya, Sylvia Greene, De’Aysia Barner and Ashley Greene

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ENTERTAINMENT SPONSORS including the Associate Superintendent of the Philadelphia ISD; and 22 in business, finance, sports management, and engineering – all successful in their chosen careers.” The program’s namesake, former mayor Richard Greene, adds his observations: “I am, of course, greatly honored that the Rangers chose to attach my name to this remarkable initiative. The main focus has always been to select students who not only have achieved academically, but also demonstrated the potential for leadership through community service. It’s very rewarding to see what they have accomplished.” The Rangers Foundation has invested more than $1 million in funding for the students’ college years, and it continues to inaugurate a new class annually to follow in the footsteps of their predecessors.

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Community Corner

Optimist Club holds baseball registration

he Optimist Club of Arlington is conducting registration for the upcoming baseball season, and parents can register their children at ocasports.org. Volunteers will also be available on Saturdays at Senter Park from 9 a.m. to noon to take registrations. Senter Park is located at 3rd Street and Mary Street near downtown Arlington. The season will start March 24, 2018. “Our focus is to provide a structured environment for all kids to come out and enjoy themselves, regardless of their skill level,” says Optimist Club official Johnny Sudbury. “This year we are offering T-Ball for 4-5 year olds for $10 and Modified T-Ball for 6 year olds for $50. The modified T-Ball incorporates a coach pitch element to help kids

develop more advanced baseball skills.” Sudbury said that for older youngsters, the organization is offering both Recreational level leagues and USSSA sanctioned “AA” leagues. The Rec leagues will be made up of teams assembled through a blind draft. New teams can come into the league with a maximum of four protected players on the roster. AA teams can come into the league with complete rosters as established by USSSA. Leagues will be organized as follows: 7-8U Coach Pitch (Rec and AA) - $90.00 9-14U Baseball (Rec and AA) - $110.00 Sudbury says the league also needs coaches. For more: 214-914-6492.

Lunar New Year awards banquet set for Feb. 10

he US Pan Asian Chamber of Commerce Southwest will present its 17th Annual Asian Lunar New Year Good Fortune Banquet at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 10 at Thanh Thanh Restaurant (2515 E. Arkansas Lane). The event, which celebrates 2018 as the Year of the Dog, will feature a Chinese banquet, a traditional Lion Dance, and attendee dancing. The US Pan Asian American Chamber Southwest will honor the Southwest Region’s Top Ten Asian Businesses at this celebration. The chamber recognizes the tremendous contributions by Asian American businesses in the DFW area through job creation and economic development by presenting this prestigious award. The Dog is the 11th in the 12-year cycle of Chinese zodiac sign. The Years of the Dog include 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030, 2042 ... For more: 682-323-5869.

Arlington has the most affordable rent prices in the Metroplex

rlington has the most affordable rent prices among the 14 biggest cities in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, according to a recent study conducted by the website zumper.com. Arlington prices, though growing 1.2% to an average monthly rent rate of $720, remained the 70

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

most affordable in the metropolitan area. The rate reflects the rent for a one-bedroom apartment. The second best rent rate, according to the study, was in Mesquite, which averaged $760 monthly for a one-bedroom apartment. Dallas had the most expensive monthly rate, $1,290.

Viridian’s Debra Meers and Howard Porteus present a donation of $25,000 to the HEB school district.

Viridian donation will go toward school playground

ecess is a bit more enjoyable this spring at Viridian Elementary, thanks to a recent $25,000 donation made by masterplanned Viridian to the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District. The donation will go toward the installation of shade structures over playground equipment. Construction will begin during spring break and is expected to be finished relatively quickly. “By the time it starts getting really hot in north Texas, the shade structures should be in place,” says Debra Meers, marketing director for Viridian. “Hot days and playgrounds aren’t necessarily a good marriage since the equipment can get too hot to use. This shade will mitigate that.” The school’s ParentTeacher Association started raising funds for the shade structures two years ago, collecting about half of the estimated $50,000 expense. Viridian’s donation will enable the playground renovation project to be completed in time for summer.

Individual Tickets & Sponsorships benefit the important work of

Kay & George Duggan

Julie & Dr. John Landry The Gerald & Candace Alley Family Foundaaon

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Tennis Tips

What is the USTA National Tennis Ratings Program? Photo: sportskeeda.com

any adult players who move past the beginning “learning how to play tennis” stage want to sharpen skills by getting involved in a league, or playing in a tournament. The conversation inevitably turns to “ratings.” Players new to leagues or tournaments may not be familiar with the rating system. The United States Tennis Association’s (USTA) skill level assessment rating system is called the National Tennis Ratings Program (NTRP). Once in the NTRP system, a player’s skill level, or rating, is typically created by their results in USTA leagues and/ or USTA adult tournaments with NTRP divisions (as opposed to age divisions). USTA has a self-rate option for new league or tournament players who do not yet have a rating. However, it is recommended that new players enlist a certified tennis professional who works with USTA leagues to get started with assessing their rating. Players must have a rating before entering a USTA league program.

72 ARLINGTON TODAY • February Today.indd 2018 • arlingtontoday.com Arlington Parks Feb2018 Ad_Arlington 1

The rating scale for adults starts with 1.0 (brand new to tennis). 1.5 (still working primarily on getting the ball in play), progressing to 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, etc., until 7.0, which is the highest rating given to world-class professional tennis players (like the ones we see on television). Year-end ratings are published in December and determine the level at which players must compete the following year. In adult ratings, men’s and women’s ratings are separated, unless players ONLY play mixed doubles. Navigating where to start in the NTRP process can be made simple by consulting a certified tennis professional who works with leagues, and getting rated is well worth the effort. Playing in a tournament or USTA league is an exciting step for players to advance their tennis game and meet new friends in leagues and tournaments. Visit the USTA.com, for additional information. – Lisa Osborn, USPTA Elite Professional, Arlington Tennis Center Assistant Tennis Coach, Mansfield Legacy High School

1/23/2018 11:59:33 AM

SAVE THE DATE

May 2nd, 2018 • 12pM • On the Field OF at&t StadiuM For the 4th Annual

Luncheon Chairman MARK A. CAFFEY • CLAIRE WHEELER Luncheon Vice-Chair

SPONSORSHIPS, TABLES & TICKETS AVAILABLE

For information contact Michael Cunningham • mc.michaelcunningham@gmail.com • (214) 300-8600, Linda Magazzine • lindamagazzine@ebby.com • (817) 980-8733 or Bridget Lenhardt • bridget.lenhardt@uss.salvationarmy.org • (817) 860-1836

Tickets available at inspiringhopeluncheon.eventbrite.com

All proceeds go to support the Youth Education Town North Texas The Salvation Army Family Life Center and Youth Education Town 712 W Abram • Arlington, TX 76013 • (817) 860-1836 • www.sayet.org

Dining Guide

Who was St. Valentine?

Keen Cuisine!

Local eateries you defintely need to check out

UPSCALE Chamas do Brazil chamasdobrazil2.tru-m.com 4606 S. Cooper St. • (817) 618-2986

MEXICAN/TEX-MEX Blue Mesa Grill bluemesagrill.com 550 Lincoln Square • (682) 323-3050

Fontana’s Fine Cuisine fontanasfinecuisine.com 6407 S. Cooper St., Suite 101 (682) 323-5704

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

The Keg Steakhouse • Bar kegsteakhouse.com 4001 Arlington Highlands Blvd. (817) 465-3700 Mercury Chophouse mercurychophouse.com 2221 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 910 (817) 381-1157 Piccolo Mondo piccolomondo.com 829 Lamar Blvd. E. • (817) 265-9174 restaurant506 at The Sanford House restaurant506.com 506 N. Center St. • (817) 801-5541 AMERICAN Candlelite Inn candleliteinnarlington.com 1202 E. Division St. • (817) 275-9613 Dino’s Subs 2221 S. Collins St. • (817) 274-1140 The Grease Monkey greasemonkeyburgers.com 200 N. Mesquite St. • (817) 665-5454 J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill jgilligans.com 400 E. Abram St. • (817) 274-8561 Mac’s Bar & Grill macsteak.com 6077 West-I20 • (817) 572-0541 74

El Primo’s Mexican Grill & Cantina elprimos.net 2300 Matlock Road, #21, Mansfield (817) 225-4140 Fuzzy’s Taco Shop fuzzystacoshop.com 510 E. Abram St. (817) 265-8226 4201 W. Green Oaks Blvd. (817) 516-8226 1601 E. Debbie Lane, Mansfield (817) 453-1682 Rio Mambo riomambo.com 2150 E. Lamar Blvd. • (817) 795-4555 6407 S. Cooper St. • (817) 465-3122 ITALIAN/PIZZA Café Sicilia cafesicilia.com 7221 Matlock Road • (817) 419-2800 Gino’s East ginoseast.com 1350 E. Copeland Road • (817) 809-7437 SEAFOOD Pantego Bay Gulf Coast Café 2233 West Park Row • (817) 303-4853 BARBECUE Bodacious Bar-B-Q bodaciousbbqarlington.com 1206 E. Division St. • (817) 860-4248

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

ll around the world people eagerly await the magical date Feb. 14, St. Valentine’s Day. This day holds the promise of new love declared or established love reaffirmed. Grandchildren give their Gramms and Gramps Chocolate Pot de Crème (or Nonna and Nonno, if you are Italian!) hand-drawn cards covered in flowers and hearts. Husbands and wives exchange gifts or cards and flowers, and for new love Feb. 14 is a day that holds many possibilities. Secret admirers may pluck up the courage to make themselves known with gifts of flowers and chocolate. Many couples choose Valentine’s Day to formalize a relationship with an engagement or wedding ring. But who was St. Valentine and why Feb. 14? There are many theories, but the most likely was a young Italian priest called Valentine. The story goes that in the third century A.D. Emperor Claudius II thought that single men made better soldiers, so he banned marriage for young men of fighting age! The young priest felt that this was unfair and defied the Emperor and continued to marry young lovers in secret. When his defiance became known he was imprisoned and sentenced to death. He was executed on Feb. 14, 270 A.D. In his honor, Feb. 14 is celebrated as a day of love and romance. So in the words of Helen Keller, “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.” Chocolate Pot de Crème (serves 6) These chocolate pots are decadent, the perfect way to end a Valentine’s celebration dinner. A little goes a long way, so keep the portions small! Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee powder; 10 ounces good quality bittersweet chocolate, roughly chopped; 3 tablespoons brandy or Amaretto liqueur (optional); fresh strawberries and biscotti to serve Method: Heat the cream, sugar and the coffee powder in a saucepan over low heat until just below boiling. Stir with a rubber spatula to ensure that the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat, add the chocolate and stir gently until all the chocolate has melted. Stir in the brandy or liqueur if you are using it. Pour into small bowls, espresso cups or small, pretty glasses. Refrigerate for at least an hour.

Sweetened Whipped Cream: 1 cup heavy cream, very cold; 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, sifted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. To make the whipped cream: Combine all the ingredients in a chilled bowl and whip with an electric beater until soft peaks form. To serve: Put a dollop of whipped cream on each chocolate pot and decorate with fresh strawberries. Serve with biscotti or tuile cookies. Buon Appetito!

Karin

ARLINGTON MUSIC FESTIVAL FEB. 8TH-10TH

Love at First Bite. FEBRUARY SPECIAL

Free Fried Ravioli Appetizer With the Purchase of Two Dinner Entrees

CAFE SICILIA

Not Valid on Valentine’s Day or with any other offer. One coupon per customer per table. Expires 2/28/18.

Arlington Music Hall • 224 N. Center Purchase tickets at: www.arlingtonmusichall.net Winner 2017 Readers’ Choice

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7221 Matlock Rd., Arlington 76002 B 817-419-2800 1548 Bedford Rd., Bedford 76021 B 817-318-6664 6801 Rufe Snow Dr., Watauga B 817-428-5110 Sun-Thurs 11am-9pm, Fri 11am-10pm, Sat 3pm-10pm We Deliver! 7 Days a Week after 5pm

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arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Bakery #: 33

Nightlife & More Casey CaseyJames James

Sights/Sounds

Your resource to entertainment options in and around Arlington

THEATER: Sylvia

When: Feb. 1- 4 Where: Theatre Arlington (305 W. Main St.) Show times: 7:30 p.m. on Thursday; 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. on Sunday Notes: A couple, Greg and Kate, move to Manhattan, where Greg brings home a dog he found in the park. Sylvia soon becomes a major bone of contention between the husband and wife in this gripping play. Adult language. For more: theatrearlington.org

MUSIC: Arlington Music Hall Concerts

When: Feb. 3, 16, 23, 24 Where: Arlington Music Hall (224 N. Center St.) Show times: 7:30 p.m. Notes: This month’s featured performers/performances include John Conlee (Feb. 3), The Rat Pack Is Back (Feb. 16), B.J. Thomas (Feb. 23) and Dailey & Vincent (Feb. 24). For more: arlingtonmusichall.net

MUSIC: Jessie Jennings & Friends

When: Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Where: Fat Daddy’s Sports & Spirits Cafe (781 W. Debbie Lane, Mansfield) Show time: 7 p.m. Notes: Jesse Jennings, originally from Dublin, Texas, is a singer, songwriter and musician based in Fort Worth. Every Sunday he performs an acoustic show. For more: fatdaddyslive.com 76

TRIVIA: Live Trivia with the Pub Guys

When: Feb. 7, 14, 21, 24 Where: World of Beer (5005 S. Cooper St.) Show time: 7 p.m. Notes: Bring your smart friends for the trivia and your rich friends for the tab. For more: worldofbeer.com/ locations/Arlington

MAGIC: Adam Trent

When: Feb. 9 Where: Verizon Theatre (1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie) Show time: 8 p.m. Notes: Trent brings his hits from the Broadway show “The Illusionists,” along with never before seen material. This is an immersive entertainment extravaganza of magic, comedy, and music perfect for the entire family. For more: verizontheatre.com

MUSIC: Symphony Arlington presents Scott Stratten Trombone

When: Feb. 15 Where: Arlington Music Hall (224 N. Center St.) Show time: 7:30 p.m. Notes: Stratten and the symphony will perform Grondahl’ “Concerto for Trombone and Orchestra,” Cimarosa’s “Overture to II Matrimonio Segreto” and Capps’ “Music for a Western.” Plus, the night will feature the Annual Movie Scores Quiz. For more: symphonyarlington.org

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

MUSIC: Alan Jackson

When: Feb. 16 Where: Verizon Theatre (1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie) Show time: 7:30 p.m. Notes: Jackson is one of the most successful and respected singersongwriters in music. He is in the elite company of Paul McCartney and John Lennon among songwriters who’ve written more than 20 songs that they’ve recorded and taken to the top of the charts. For more: verizontheatre.com

THEATER: DreamWorks Shrek Jr.: The Musical

When: Feb. 23 - March 11 Where: Theatre Arlington (305 W. Main St.) Show times: 7:30 p.m. on Friday; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday; 2 p.m. on Sunday Notes: Everyone’s favorite ogre, Shrek, leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. For more: theatrearlington.org

MUSIC: MERCY ME

When: Feb. 24 Where: Verizon Theatre (1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie) Show time: 8 p.m. Notes: One of contemporary Christian music’s most beloved groups, MercyMe scored two nods for the upcoming 60th Annual GRAMMY Awards®. For more: verizontheatre.com

Photo: pinterest.com

Three evenings of outstanding music

he second annual Arlington Music Festival will be held Feb. 8-10 at the Arlington Music Hall. The event will feature A Night of Blues, An Evening of Romance and A Night of Jazz and R&B. On Feb. 8, the Night of Blues will feature the music stylings of artists Casey James, Holland K Smith, Ruban V, Dylan Bishop, Jim Suhler & Monkey Beat, and Ray Reed. On Feb. 9, An Evening of Romance features Nubia, Ahyonz featuring Kenya C., Urban Mystic, and Glen Jones. On the closing night, jazz and R&B artists Kenya C., Tom Braxton, Kim Waters, and Josh Giles are scheduled to perform. Each night’s show begins at 7:30 p.m. For more information: jimaustinonlineinfo.com.

Thank you to our 2018 Fire & Ice Sponsors Presenting Sponsors: Federation of Insurance Women of Texas Sapphire Sponsor: Kay & George Duggan BNSF Amethyst Sponsor: William Financial Planning, Inc. Claire Wheeler & Linda Magazine First United Mortgage Rebecca & Jim Nill Media Sponsors: CBS Channel 11 92.1 The Ranch Arlington Today Magazine Fashion: Whatchamacallit

Service Providers: R&D Occasions Worthy Events Jedediah Stinson Clothiers MannMade Construction 360 Catering Sheela Tequila Waters Restaurant Entertainment: The Inspiration Band Magician: Michael Dimsdle

2018 Celebrity Models: Jordan Duggan Kristin Nill Kennedey Rinh Briana Sundberg-Rishel Tricia Schwartz Annie Wheeler

Event proceeds benefiting Careity Foundation

For information about sponsorships for the 2019 event contact info@worthyevents.org

Based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture and the book by William Steig

PRODUCTION SPONSOR

February 23-March 11, 2018 Field Trip Performances at UTA’s Texas Hall March 20 & 21! For more info or to register: theatrearlington.org

Friday @ 7:30pm • Saturday @ 2pm & 7:30pm • Sunday @ 2pm OPENING NIGHT SPONSOR

All Youth Production

Book and Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire Music by Jeanine Tesori

Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com

SEASON SPONSORS

305 W. Main Street • Arlington, Tx 76010

Box Office 817.275.7661 • TheatreArlington.org

- SAVE THE DATE! -

Friday, March 23, 2018 at Jack Daniel’s Club in Globe Life Park

benefitting Theatre Arlington

ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

arlingtontoday.com • February 2018 • ARLINGTON TODAY

Speaking of Sports

???????????? It’s not hard to pinpoint the punctuation mark that greets the Rangers as they begin spring training • By John Rhadigan

go right into the rotation. If the winter proved anything it’s that he he trucks are rolling, the dirt is moving, and the future is has no business in a bullpen. taking shape for the Texas Rangers. I am not referring to the That is 40 percent of the rotation; the other 60 percent will be hole in the ground that will become a state-of-the art stadium composed of guys with lots of upside: Matt Moore, who comes soon enough. The trucks are pick-ups – most players have at from San Francisco but has fond memories of beating up on the least one – and the parking lot in Surprise, Ariz., is full of them. Rangers when he was a youngster in Tampa Bay. Doug Fister, a The dirt is moving on the backfields at the Spring Training 6-foot, 8-inch right hander who went 40-25 during a three-year home of the Rangers. The entire team has convened there to busily stretch from 2012-14. Mike Minor who, like Perez, wants out of prepare for the future. In fact, the future begins later this month. the bullpen. He was used out of the Kansas City Royals pen last For the first time in recent memory there are not one, not two, but year. He had 88 strikeouts in 77 and two three regular season games in March. thirds innings. He had six saves and an The World Champion Astros will be One key to the Rangers’ success era of 2.55. here for a four game series to open the is whether Cole Hamels can return to top-of-the-rotation Another experiment of the spring will season beginning March 29. form in 2018. be Matt Bush. One of the best stories of With that in mind, the next few 2016 will try his hand at starting this weeks will be very important for this year, too. Add A.J. Griffinand Chi Chi Rangers team that enters the spring Gonzalez to the mix, and the Rangers with more question marks than it has have some depth at starter going into had since 2015. spring training. Like most teams, the biggest The bullpen will be anchored by Jake questions are on the mound. It always Diekman, Keona Kela and last year’s starts with pitching. When Yu Darvish pitcher of the year Alex Claudio. Bush, and Cole Hamels were paired together and Minor could spend time there, as for the last couple of years, pitching well. Bullpens, as we have learned many was always considered a strength. times in the past, are always a work in But Darvish was traded to LA ahead progress. of his free agency, and Cole is trying The late, great Rangers’ announcer to outrun Father Time. Still, there are Photo: grantland.com Mark Holtz used to say, “It’s baseball plenty of teams that would take an time in Texas,” and that time is nigh upon us. Very soon those aging Cole Hamels at the top of its rotation. trucks, the pickup trucks, will be rolling back to Arlington. The His experience, intelligence and work ethic are second to none in dirt will be moving on the field at Globe Life Park for the secondMLB. His generosity is remarkable, too, after he and his wife Heidi to-the-last season in that glorious park. The new season starts with gifted their 32,000-square-foot mansion in Missouri to a charity spring training this month. The last time there were this many called Camp Barnabas. That is just one more reason to root for Cole question marks was 2015. Oh by the way, the Rangers won the AL to have a great year. West in 2015. Behind him will be Martin Perez. That is, once his elbow heals – he had an off-season accident on his ranch in Venezuela. He was in a pen with some bulls and one of them moved in a way that startled Martin, he fell and fractured the elbow on his nonthrowing arm. He still hopes to make it back for opening day; team Sports columnist John Rhadigan is an anchor for the Fox officials think he will miss a month. Whenever he gets back, he will Sports Southwest television network.

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

19 Annual th

CHARITY

BALL

PAINT THE TOWN

RED 02.17.2018

Special Thanks to Our Title Sponsor

Walnut Creek Country Club 7:00 pm - Midnight

Featuring the KING DAVID BAND Live & Silent Auctions • Heavy Hors d'oeuvres Cash Bar • Valet

$125 per person ($150 at the door) Photograph by Dave Goodwin’s Green Doors Studio

To Register or Donate NOW! Go to mansfieldcares.org

RSVP online at www.mansfieldcares.org by February 15th, or send check/cash to Mansfield Cares, 990 Hwy. 287 N. #106-185, Mansfield, TX 76063

Events, etc.

Itinerary

Your resource to entertainment options in and around Arlington

UTA basketball

When: Feb. 1, 3, 10, 22, 24 Where: College Park Center (601 Spaniolo Drive) Times: Check website for game times. In a nutshell: This month, the University of Texas at Arlington Mavericks men’s and women’s teams each host five games: Appalachian State (Feb. 1), Coastal Carolina (Feb. 3), Texas State (Feb. 10), Georgia Southern (Feb. 22) and Georgia State (Feb. 24). For more: utamavs.com

Planetarium shows

When: Feb. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24-25 Where: UTA Planetarium (700 Planetarium Place) Times: Check website for show times In a nutshell: UTA Planetarium is one of the three largest planetariums in the State of Texas located in a groundbreaking research facility. With its 60-feet dome projection surface, fully digital projection system and advanced software, UTA Planetarium provides its visitors views of realistic night sky, the Solar System, stars, and distant galaxies complemented with Dolby surround sound. For more: uta.edu/planetarium

2018 Monster Jam

When: Feb. 10 Where: AT&T Stadium Time: 7 p.m. In a nutshell: The most actionpacked live event on four wheels returns to Arlington when worldclass drivers compete in both monster truck racing and freestyle 80

competitions. Celebrating 25 years of adrenaline-charged family entertainment, Monster Jam combines spontaneous entertainment with the ultimate offroad, motorsport competition. For more: attstadium.com

Nature Walk

When: Feb. 10 Where: River Legacy Living Science Center (703 N.W. Green Oaks Blvd.) Time: 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. In a nutshell: Explore the nature trails surrounding the Science Center on a family-friendly guided Nature Walk. Walks are free, but space is limited. RSVP to the number below. For more: (817) 860-6752

Barks & Rec Running Club

When: Feb. 10 Where: Katherine Rose Memorial Park (303 North Walnut Creek Drive, Mansfield) Time: 9 a.m. In a nutshell: Get in shape and make a difference to a four-legged friend. This new running program consists of six weeks of training designed to help all ability levels go from inactivity to completing a 5k. For more: tinyurl.com/y932j6kc

Valentine’s Day skating

When: Feb. 14 Where: Ice at the Parks (3815 S. Cooper St.) Times: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. In a nutshell: Take your Valentine ice skating during this two-for-theprice-of-one special. For more: iceattheparks.net

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

Michael Pollan

When: Feb. 20 Where: UTA’s Texas Hall (701 W. Nedderman Drive) Time: 7:30 p.m. In a nutshell: The next Maverick Speakers Series event features Pollan, who for the past 20 years has been writing books and articles about the places where the human and natural worlds intersect: food, agriculture, gardens, drugs, and architecture. For more: uta.edu/maverickspeakers

Eat Your Art Out

When: Feb. 24 Where: Arlington Museum of Art (201 W. Main St.) Time: 7 p.m.-10 p.m. In a nutshell: Enjoy pastry and dessert sculptures from some of DFW’s most creative bakeries, restaurants and individual bakers during this fundraising event for Arington Museum of Art. If you or someone you know wants to prepare one of the sculptures, email arlingtonmuseum@gmail.com. For more: arlingtonmuseum.org

Reunion planners workshop

When: Feb. 24 Where: Alley Cats (2008 W. Pleasant Ridge Road) Time: 9 a.m.-noon In a nutshell: The Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau will host a free half-day workshop that will include reunion checklists, planning timelines, lodging tips, money savers, an itinerary building workshop and more. For more: tinyurl.com/ybjtqhv2

Photos: americanrodeo.com

The American is coming to town

n addition to hosting the Professional Bull Riders’ Iron Cowboy Competition (spotlighted on page 12), Arlington will also be the site of RFD TV’s The American Rodeo on Feb. 25 at AT&T Stadium. The event will begin at 2 p.m., when the toughest rodeo competitors in the world will ride away with the most significant oneday cash payout ever awarded. Top qualifiers will compete against the top 10 in the World at THE AMERICAN to compete for $2 million in cash prizes. Last year, nearly 4,000 entries competed at 70 qualifying events to make the American SemiFinals, where nearly 600 athletes battled for 38 byes into THE AMERICAN. For more: americanrodeo.com.

“Every Child Deserves a Chance to Play Baseball ” 7th Annual Gala Benefiting the Miracle League DFW

March 3rd, 2018 Dinner • Silent Auction • Live Auction • Entertainment Jim Munroe, Magician, Founder of the MAZE www.whatisthemaze.com Proceeds from the Gala will help provide uniforms and equipment, at no cost, to our players and their families.

To purchase tickets or to become a sponsor, visit:

www.miracleleaguedfw.com or email info@miracleleaguedfw.org

Finish Line

Arlington’s natural wonder

River Legacy Living Science Center

Photo: Richard Greene

How a few people rallied a few more people to bring us River Legacy Park • By Richard Greene Editor’s note: This month’s Finish Line is one in an occasional series that former Mayor Greene calls “How our community was shaped by 10 things that didn’t happen.” This month’s commentary is the seventh of those 10 things.

he city’s largest and most popular park encompasses the Trinity River forest flood plain and stretches along more than eight miles of paved trails from the eastern edge of the city to its western boundary. Here you will find the Trinity much different than the way you see it when you drive across it on the bridges found throughout the expanse of the Dallas-Fort Worth region. But it wasn’t always possible to experience this treasure trove of wildlife, woodlands and waterways. Until the late 1980s Arlington owned only a couple hundred acres of inaccessible North Arlington land along the roadway that is today’s Green Oaks Boulevard. You may not know her name, but Arlington is very fortunate indeed to have had Donna Brasher as our parks department director, thinking beyond the usual budget restrictions in addressing the city’s scarcity of parkland and green spaces. Without much success in getting anyone sufficiently motivated for a big private fundraising assignment, in 1987 she decided to approach Arlington’s First Lady, believing she might be able to get things moving. At first, Sylvia Greene was reticent. She told Donna that she had little experience in asking people for money. Donna’s response was to the point: “You are the mayor’s wife, and you will be surprised how people will react when it’s you sitting across their desks describing how much the community needs their help.” The River Legacy Foundation was formed as a non-profit corporation, a board of directors assembled, Sylvia was named president, and the work to make something special happen was underway. Next came the fundraising challenge. With a visionary master plan to help people see the possibilities in hand, contributions were obtained from individuals, charitable foundations and corporate donors. In June, 1990, the first phase of River Legacy Park was complete and open to the public. The next phase was already underway, and collaborations with area, state and federal partners were growing and producing significant results to ensure it would all become a reality. Today the park encompasses almost 1,400 acres, including those eight miles of paved trails along the Trinity, picnic areas, a nature-

ARLINGTON TODAY • February 2018 • arlingtontoday.com

themed playground and a popular pavilion where meetings, weddings, and events are staged. Then the crown jewel of the park was imagined. At first the idea was to find a way to build a nature center that would be a place to pick up a trail map and set out to explore the park. Sylvia and her supporters had something more in mind. Much more. When that vision was drawn up and presented to the city council, the reaction was both enthusiastic and yet pessimistic at the same time. What a wonderful thing this could be, “but we don’t have the money” was the essence of the response. Sylvia and her foundation team said, “Fine, we’ll start with the $500,000 in bond funds already committed and increase it tenfold with money from the private sector.” It took lots of 12-hour days stretching over many months of revisiting and sharing the vision with previous donors, recruiting new ones, and a spirit of never giving up. Moreover, Sylvia’s team was following the inspiration of Margaret Mead. “Never doubt,” she famously said, “that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” That small group of River Legacy Foundation’s thoughtful, committed leaders raised all the money they had promised to the doubting city council who stood in the reflected glory of those citizens on the day in 1996 when the doors to the new and amazing River Legacy Living Science Center were opened to the public. So, the thing that didn’t happen to make all this possible was that Sylvia Greene didn’t say “no” to Donna Brasher and then spent the next 15 years meeting and exceeding expectations and overcoming the doubts of those who didn’t believe. The result was a $5 million gift to the City from that small group of committed citizens. Twenty years later, a $2.5 million transformation of the experience inside the nature center has taken place. You ought to come see it. And, bring the kids. It’s awesome. Richard Greene served as Arlington’s mayor from 1987-1997, was appointed by President George W. Bush as Regional Administrator to the EPA, and currently teaches in the University of Texas at Arlington’s graduate program in the College of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs.

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