September 2021

September 2021

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Today

Things Are Looking UP for Patient-Focused Urology Care in North Texas arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Contents

ON THE COVER

September 2021 • Volume 8 • Issue 9

HIGHLIGHTS 28

32

44 28

(Shown left to right) Urologists Dr. James Clifton Vestal, Dr. Harrison “Mitch” Abrahams, Dr. Tracy Cannon-Smith, Dr. Justin Tabor Lee, Dr. Richard Bevan-Thomas and Dr. Keith Xavier are among the 26 physicians at the heart of physicianled, patient-centered care at Urology Partners of North Texas.

Cover story, page 24

DEPARTMENTS 40

28 It’s show time!

Theatre Arlington gets ready to raise the curtain on a new era

30 Flying in the right direction The WNBA Dallas Wings are stockpiling talent and looking to a bright future 32 Maverick milestone UTA has achieved prestigious Texas Tier One designation

Starting Line 10 This ‘n Data 12 • Around Town 20 Scene 22, 52 • Style 42 Greater Arlington Chamber 42 Bulletin Board 58 • Keen Cuisine 60 Speaking of Sports 62 • Itinerary 64 Finish Line 66

IN THIS ISSUE ...

34 A personal reflection Richard Greene pays tribute to the late, great friend to the city, David Mortiz 36 Advanced poli-sci

A recent UTA grad is the newest member of the Grand Prairie City Council

38 Home SWEET! Home

This month, we review some of the great kitchens we have featured

40 Dog gone!

(And then found!, some 1,200 miles from home, thanks to helpful strangers) 44 Something different – and remarkable Check out the 1902 Indian 14 motorcycle, the oldest of its kind in the world 8

ARLINGTON TODAY • September 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

This month, we look at how several local entities are helping senior citizens make the most of the Golden Years Page 50

•

STARTING LINE your community • your magazine

EXECUTIVE BOARD Executive Publisher Judy M. Rupay

Read all about it

CEO Richard Greene

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his month’s Arlington Today is something of a milestone issue, given that it was in September of 2013 that I had the honor here of introducing this publication to the city and region. Raise your hand if you remember that the great Nolan Ryan graced our first cover. Keep it up if you remember that the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders were principals on the second.

For those keeping score at home, we’ve published 92 covers since those two, in addition to literally thousands of ensuing pages celebrating this wonderful town and area. As was the case in every predecessor, this month’s edition is chock full ‘o revelry.

For example, if you got to this page by way of the cover, you saw us celebrating one of the more pertinent and sophisticated health care providers in the country: Urology Yale Partners of North Texas. I Youngblood can personally vouch for the Editor physicians and support personnel there; they literally helped me survive cancer.

But they are not alone among the reasons I’m particularly proud to be a part of this issue. Among the 94 editions we’ve produced, this might be the one I would urge the kids to take to school on “Show and Tell” day. Here’s why I like it so: • If you turn to the next left-hand page, you’ll discover that Arlington’s Sandra Brown probably doesn’t have many regrets about her career choice. Her newest novel is the 73rd to make the New York Times Best Seller list.

• A few pages later, you’ll see that we noted that another local icon, Mission Arlington Director Tillie Burgin, has received a well-deserved service award.

• Thereafter, we share important happenings in local business and art, from the exciting prospective revitalization of Historic Downtown Mansfield to renovations going on at Theatre Arlington to ensure that the curtain literally rises on a new era in the arts.

• You might have noticed a photo of a motorcycle on the Table of Contents page just prior to this one. The Indian 14 we feature in our “Behind the Wheels” story this month is the oldest of its kind in the world.

• What’s among the newest of its kind in the world is the news that UTA just earned Texas Tier One designation. You’ll have a finger and a thumb left over if you count the other state institutions in this elite club. Speaking of elite, the Arlington Fire Department qualifies. In one of our Scenes (page 52) you’ll see why.

• There’s plenty more, to boot, but I probably should let you mine the rest of the gold yourself. Besides, I need to start thinking about issue No. 95. It has some big shoes to fill.

yale@arlingtontoday.com Visit arlingtontoday.com, like us on Facebook 10

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

Copyright 2021 Arlington Today, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without permission of the publisher. The inclusion of advertising is considered a service to readers and is not an endorsement of products. Basic subscriptions are $33.95 for 12 issues.

To subscribe, e-mail subscriptions@arlingtontoday.com.

ARLINGTON TODAY GIVES BACK Arlington Today magazine proudly sponsors the Alzheimer’s Association, Arlington Urban Ministries, CASA, Junior League of Arlington, Levitt Pavilion Arlington, and Theatre Arlington.

Phone number: (817) 303-3304

• THIS ‘N DATA

PAST MEETS FUTURE Six Flags Over Texas to introduce Pirates of Speelunker Cave for the 2022 season

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ix Flags Over Texas continued its 60th anniversary celebration last month by announcing that an all-new ride experience will make its debut for the 2022 season. Pirates of Speelunker Cave is a state-of-the-art attraction that will place guests squarely in the middle of a pirate treasure hunt thwarted by resident Speelunkers.

This exciting, new attraction is the second new ride announced at the park and is scheduled to open early in 2022. Aquaman: Power Wave, a previously announced multi-launch water coaster, will also debut next season.

An all-new entry plaza will welcome adventurers with coastal theming and an open vantage point of the ride’s first descent into Speelunker Cave. Once aboard their six-passenger boat, riders will experience 17 brand-new scenes that combine state-of-the-art cinematic projection with immersive sets and animatronics.

Pirates of Speelunker Cave is a re-imagining of one of the park’s first attractions, The Cave, that operated from 1964 until 1991 and will replace the current version of the attraction—Yosemite Sam and the Gold River Adventure.

Photo: Andrew Eccles

Arlington author Sandra Brown’s new novel makes her a NYTimes best-seller for the the 73rd time

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t’s official! “Blind Tiger,” the new novel

by Sandra Brown, has become the Arlington author’s 73rd career New York Times Best Seller.

The book, published by Grand Central Publishing, hit shelves in early August and immediately rocketed up the acclaimed best-seller list.

The page-turning historical thriller is set in Prohibition-era Texas and chronicles the tumultuous life of Thatcher Hutton, who seeks a simpler existence after returning from World War I – and finds anything but.

For more: sandrabrown.net/books/ blind-tiger

City is offering grants for beautification/enhancement projects

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rlington has $150,000 available for projects that would beautify and enhance public spaces and strengthen neighborhoods. Projects can include public art, landscaping, entrance signs, sidewalks or any other improvements that serve a public purpose. Applications are due Nov. 3. Email neighborhoods@arlingtontx.gov or call 817-459-6566.

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• THIS ‘N DATA

MAXWELL SCARLETT, UTA’S FIRST BLACK GRADUATE, DIES

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axwell Scarlett, the first Black graduate of The University of Texas at Arlington and a distinguished Fort Worth physician who specialized in emergency medicine, died last month. He was 76 years old.

Scarlett said he didn’t set out to be a trailblazer when he enrolled at UTA, then named Arlington State College (ASC), in September 1965. Nor was he the first Black student to enroll in ASC; he transferred to Arlington as a senior three years after the student body was first integrated.

But Scarlett was the first to earn a degree, receiving a B.S. in biology in the spring of 1966. He went on to earn a medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine and began a long and distinguished career in emergency medicine. He said he was extremely proud of being an alumnus of UTA and stayed closely connected to the University through the years.

“The University of Texas at Arlington community is mourning the passing of a distinguished alumnus and beloved friend,” says Teik C. Lim, interim president of UTA. “Dr. Scarlett was a loyal Maverick and respected community leader. He will be deeply missed.”

Scarlett was passionate about higher education and about serving his alma mater. Scarlett had served as a member of the UTA President’s Advisory Board and the UTA College of Science Advisory Board. He was a founding member of the UTA African American Alumni Chapter and a life member of the UTA Alumni Association. He was always willing to speak with student groups and share his gratitude for the support he received from the University. As he once remarked, “Not a day goes by that I don’t appreciate the priceless foundation in life that I received at UT Arlington.”

RAISE YOUR HAND if knew that three Arlington churches date to the 1890s. Keep that hand up if you can name them. For those whose hand is no longer in the air, the places of worship with the rich local histories are Emmanuel Church of God in Christ, Mount Olive Baptist Church and Armstrong Chapel AME. (Thanks to the Arlington Historical Society for sharing this nugget with us.)

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SCOOPS

1. Ayla Hernandez recently opened Kung Fu Tea, dubbed by some as “the Starbucks of bubble tea,” at 101 E. Abram St., Suite 170. Kung Fu Tea offers a wide range of beverages, from best-sellers such as milk tea, coconut milk tea and winter melon milk tea, to slushes and fruit-based teas. For more: kungfutea.com 2. This month, the SH 360 northbound frontage road will be temporarily closed between Six Flags Drive and Lamar Boulevard to place deep underground drainage structures across the frontage road.

The road closure is anticipated to be a four-week duration. Traffic will be detoured east on Six Flags Drive, crossing I-30, and turning west at the new intersection connection to Lamar Boulevard and 107th Street.

3. Citing strong budgetary performance and

flexibility, Standard & Poors has affirmed the AAA long-term bond rating for Mansfield’s series 2021 combination tax and revenue certificates of obligation. S&P first awarded Mansfield the prestigious AAA bond rating in December 2017. Fitch Ratings also affirmed the city’s AA+ bond rating for the $9.5 million in COs the city is issuing in 2021.

Grand Prairie is expanding the entertainment options

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rand Prairie’s Bolder Adventure Park broke ground last month in the EpicCentral Entertainment District. The indoor family entertainment facility will provide adventure-based attractions in a 66,000-square-foot pneumatic dome structure, including rock climbing, zip lines, via ferrata, ropes courses, tubing slides, synthetic ice skating, adventure nets and more.

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• THIS ‘N DATA

USPAACC HONORS MISSION ARLINGTON’S TILLIE BURGIN

TxDOT More Than Halfway Through Spur 303 Sidewalk Improvements in Arlington

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he United States Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce Southwest Region recently presented its Lifetime Service to Humanity Award to Tillie Burgin, founder and director of Mission Arlington/Mission Metroplex. The award was presented by USPAAC President Grace McDermott during the organization’s 2021 Women’s Business Symposium award ceremony.

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exas Department of Transportation crews are more than halfway through with $3.2 million in sidewalk, sign, lighting and signal improvements along Spur 303/Pioneer Parkway between Collins Street and State Highway 360 in east Arlington.

The project, which will improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians, began last November and is expected to be complete next spring.

So far, TxDOT crews have constructed two miles of Americans with Disability Act compliant sidewalks on the eastbound side of the thoroughfare. Crews are now working to install two miles of ADAcompliant sidewalk on the westbound side.

Arlington By the numbers 16

180+

#atpetofthemonth This is Aria, age 4, and her mum. This is what they look like with early morning bed heads.

– Kendall Lake

5,000

320

The number of retail stores and eateries located at The Parks Mall in Arlington

The seating capacity for live events at Arlington Backyard at Texas Live!

The number of feet from the blue star at midfield to the top of the AT&T Stadium roof

Source: arlington.org

Source: arlington.org

Source: arlington.org

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• AROUND TOWN

Starting early with social emotional learning

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Dr. Jackeline Orsini, AISD’s director of the Department of Early Childhood Learning, works with a student on the first day of school.

said this year’s buzzword is acceleration, not remediation. isha Moritz has spent the past six months schooling her “When we think of our students who have had loss of learning, timid 4-year-old on the beneficial rudiments of a preloss of engagement in some cases,” Cavazos says, “we know we kindergarten existence and the fun-filled worthiness of have a challenge and we need to accelerate.”

BFFs. Last year was the district’s first in offering full day pre-K. Pint-sized Leah, puffy cheeked with eyes the size of golf balls, It was tough, to say the least. is an only child with a batch of cousins as close as Benbrook but “Parents didn’t really send their kids to pre-K,” Cavazos in the past year or so has seen them only three times – twice admits. “We know that a full day pre-K is a game changer. They behind the tinted window of a Ford Explorer. have a better preparation for success.”

Early on August 16, the first day of school, she arrived at Cavazos spent the first day of school touring pre-K classes at Bebensee Elementary in a frilly white dress, hair up in a ponyBebensee along with Principal Charlotte Carter and Dr. Jackeline tail, looking as though she was about to walk a plank into a sea of Orsini, director of the Department of Early Childhood Learning, circling piranha.

They spoke of getting students who, like Leah, have been socially “A little nervous,” says mom. sequestered and require a big catch up.

“A little?” quips dad.

“Pre-K gives you the chance to build strong literacy and math Never has attending the first day of school been fraught with skills, sure, but more importantly is this sort of anticipation and weariness; the social emotional component, which as if trekking a child into an unfamiliar is very important at this age,” says place with unfamiliar kids governed by Orsini. “How to meet new friends, how unfamiliar adults weren’t enough, here to share, how to express your feelings, they are combating a mutating virus with Kenneth Perkins how to handle your emotions. It’s all its own survival tendencies. equally important.”

Seems we’ve launched into the third academic year that is being upended by a EVEN BEFORE the pandemic, You can’t do that sitting at home alone. pandemic filled with uncertainty.

AISD was nudging parents to AISD is focusing more on social Still, Moritz was never more certain consider pre-K, but this year it emotional learning, which helps build with the choice of sending her little one to self-awareness and interpersonal skills pre-K, feeling that another year isolated is considered a priority. to cope with daily challenges. at home would be detrimental to her It’s never too early to start. social and emotional growth.

When students arrived at Bebensee they were clapped into “She has a fun time with mom and dad, but what has it been the building by teachers, AISD administrators and members of like for her in the last two years to have only been with mom?” nearby New Life Fellowship Church.

Moritz says. “She’s four, which means her entire existence has “It was awesome, tearful,” says Bebensee Principal Charlotte been with her parents pretty much exclusively. Is that a good Carter. “This school is the apex of the community. They call our thing?” playground here the park. They come on weekends with their Even before the pandemic, Arlington ISD was nudging parents families.” to consider pre-K, but this year it feels more like a push, albeit a It’s a community school lifted by the community. kinder, gentler one.

Which is what social emotional learning is all about.

Enrollment of children three and four, the typical pre-K age, is Says Carter: “What a great place for these young preschoolers to up in AISD, thanks to that push, starting with Superintendent Dr. start.”

Marcelo Cavazos, who, during the district’s annual Convocation Kenneth Perkins has been a contributing writer for Arlington Today since it debuted. He is a freelance writer, editor and photographer.

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• PICTURE-PERFECT MOMENTS

Scene

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

Texas Rangers Hall of Fame ceremony

AISD State of the District event Jim Ross (center) attended his first State of the District event in his new capacity as mayor.

Photo: Kelly Gavin

Chuck Morgan (bottom, third from left) and Adrian Beltre (bottom, second from right) took their places as Texas Rangers Hall of Famers.

Photos: Southern Photos:Flair City Photography of Arlington

Dan Dipert and Dr. Kenyon Godwin

Toni Worley and Carla Sue Worley

Arlington Heritage Memorial Garden Fundraiser

Photos: Southern Flair Photography

A fundraiser at J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill for the Arlington Memorial Garden last month drew a large crowd, which included civic leaders, business leaders and other supporters of city causes. Not only were attendees informed about the project, but they were entertained during the event.

Bolder Adventure Park ground-breaking ceremony

Photo: City of Grand Prairie

Grand Prairie dignitaries broke ground on Bolder Adventure Park last month. The facility, which is part of the EpicCentral Entertainment Distirct, is expected to open in the summer of 2022.

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Mansfield hosts Veterans Town Hall meetings

Photo: City of Mansfield

Mansfield Mayor Michael Evans and City Manager Joe Smolinski hosted Veterans Town Hall meetings last month to learn of their concerns for the city.

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• COVER STORY

Photos courtesy of Urology Partners of North Texas

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For This Group of Urologists, Patient-Focused Care Isn’t Just Lip Service

t’s 8 a.m., and the phones are on fire at Urology Partners of North Texas’s new clinic. A flood of patients are making the call-center banks light up this April 8th morning. They’re calling to schedule an appointment with their trusted physician for help with everything from leaky bladder and prostate issues, to kidney stones and a host of other urologic ailments.

By the end of the day – the first for the new practice – nearly 11,000 calls will come in. It’s both a testament to the high regard patients have for this group of docs, and a confirmation that the herculean efforts they’ve made to break free from the draconian dictums of corporate medicine were well worth it.

While much of the nation has been undergoing an exhausting and seemingly endless struggle session for the past decade, many of the country’s sacred institutions have found themselves caught up in an unexpected fight for autonomy – including medicine.

Eager to corral more of the system to boost their bottom line, health-insurance companies and corporate heavyweights have made a bid for medical providers. In doing so, they’ve placed themselves smack in the middle of the sacred patient-physician relationship.

You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to know that letting corporate bean counters try to excise the bond between patient and healer is dangerous folly. So, it wasn’t surprising when

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one group of doctors – the “surreptitious seven” – decided to reclaim the mantle of physician-led medicine. By doing so, they aimed to ensure the needs and concerns of their patients would truly come first.

They knew what they were in for. More importantly, they’d done it before.

The Seeds of Patient-First All through the early and mid-2000s, a tight-knit team of North Texas physicians quietly set about building an enviable model of care. At its core was a rare hospital – rare because the physicians owned it. They served in its top leadership positions, sat on its board, established all of the organization’s policies, and made all the management decisions. They did it all according to one guiding precept: always do what’s best for the patient.

Their singular focus fueled a nimble, indefatigable, can-do culture that delivered on their promise of patient-centered care.

“We were always thinking, ‘How can we ensure the highest patient satisfaction? How can we maintain the highest levels of safety?’ Our facility was the Metroplex leader in those areas for many years,” says UPNT partner Mitch Abrahams, MD. “We were the leader because we had doctors making those decisions, not bureaucrats who don’t really know how to improve things.”

Tracy Cannon-Smith, MD, FPMRS, explains treatment details to a patient before beginning an outpatient procedure at the UPNT Arlington Clinic.

Harrison “Mitch” Abrahams, MD, reviews a patient’s chart just before stepping into the exam room.

Richard Bevan-Thomas, MD, consults with a colleague about a prostate cancer patient.

Physician assistant Ly Chu uses her iPad to successfully communicate with an elderly patient with poor vision and hearing.

Under their physician-led model, the group shifted into excel mode. They pioneered one of the nation’s leading robotic surgery programs. They created Centers of Excellence to treat prostate cancer, pelvic prolapse, incontinence, men’s health issues and more.

“We were a group that was used to creating things, building things, being in front of the pack,” Abrahams acknowledges.

Their patient-first momentum was derailed when an acquisition changed everything. In an analogy one doctor likes to use to describe the seismic shift, the doctors went from being bank owners to bank tellers. Suddenly, their decades of patient care and medical expertise became subservient to a bureaucratic machine that seemed woefully out of touch with patient-first concerns. When they started receiving mandates about treatments they could and could not administer, they’d had enough.

“There was so much red tape. Approval for anything had to be run through committee after committee. Bureaucracy interfered with our ability to take care of our patients,” UPNT managing partner Patrick Collini, MD, states simply. “So, we decided to build a practice where we could put all our skills, ideas and intense patient focus to work.”

Building a Better Healthcare Experience As Goethe once famously encouraged, “Be bold, and mighty forces will come to your aid.”

As it turns out, a long-time patient owned the perfect space for a new clinic.

Buildout was completed in just four months. By the time UPNT opened its doors, seven physicians had grown to 19—along with four physician assistants and an amazing support team. Today, there are 26 physicians and the practice is on an upward trajectory that shows no signs of slowing.

Making everything fall into place was a tremendous amount of hard work.

Some of the docs admit it caused quite a few sleepless nights. Still, the group has been energized by its common purpose. “Now, patients get something they can’t find many places: a physician-owned and managed medical group where the docs make all the decisions in order to best serve those who entrust us with their care,” adds UPNT partner Richard Bevan-Thomas, MD. UPNT’s care philosophy is emblazoned front and center on the practice’s website – We are creating a different kind of healthcare experience.

“Trust, respect and genuine concern for our patients are at the heart of everything we do,” says UPNT partner Justin Tabor Lee, MD. “Nothing is more important than helping our patients live healthier, more fulfilling lives.”

Since day one, the mighty force Goethe referred to has manifested itself in a throng of patients. Even the COVID-19 pandemic couldn’t kill the momentum.

You only have to spend a few minutes perusing the heartfelt comments on the UPNT Facebook page and blog to see why they are so loyal.

“I feel very, very fortunate. I’m living a full life, enjoying my life, and I absolutely thank Dr. Waguespack for that,” shares a bladder and kidney cancer survivor.

“What a relief it is to finally meet a doctor who’s actually optimistic and doesn’t treat you like you’re a number,” says a man whose life was turned upside down by BPH. “Dr. Moore cares for you like he’s a friend. If it wasn’t for him, I’d probably be sitting in a chair feeling sorry for myself. I love that man.”

“I hate to apply too much hero status to him. I know Dr. Bevan-Thomas probably fears it sometimes, but he’s just going to have to suffer through it,” arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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confesses one prostate cancer survivor. “He is my hero. He saved my life. It’s quite a gift. I’ll never take it for granted.”

A woman who once suffered with pelvic prolapse writes, “Dr. Tracy Cannon-Smith is absolutely the best! Takes time to listen and truly cares. Her entire staff is awesome – highly recommend!”

“A lot of doctors sell their specialty,” one prostate cancer survivor notes. “A surgeon will say you have to have surgery. A radiologist will say you have to have radiation. Dr. Lee didn’t do that. The first thing he said was, ‘I really recommend that you get some other opinions.’ He offered to bring in a radiologist and oncologist, and he gave me a copy of the NCCN guidelines. From the time I met Dr. Lee, I had a lot of faith. He was always upbeat.

He always looked at me and said, ‘You’re going to be alright. You’re going to be fine.’”

A woman with incontinence adds, “Thank you to Dr. Nuss, who has helped me navigate issues with my bladder and who went above and beyond when I had surgery!”

Everyone at UPNT is keenly aware that their patients can seek care at a number of facilities. “The fact that they choose and entrust our team isn’t lost on us,” says UPNT partner Keith Waguespack, MD. “We continue to work hard to earn their faith and confidence.”

person with a lot of structure around them that’s set in stone.

The people who are attracted to our group are people who want to help improve our practice and find better ways of doing things.

They’re not satisfied with the status quo. They always have an eye on better, more cost-effective, more efficacious patient care.”

Care providers who join UPNT will find the culture exudes a cohesive, collaborative esprit de corps that is rooted in teamwork.

Harrison “Mitch” Abrahams, MD Teamwork that gives patients access Jeffrey Applewhite, MD to not just one physician, but all of Jerry Barker, MD its physicians.

Richard Bevan-Thomas, MD “We’re always talking with each Keith Bloom, MD other, putting our heads together, Tracy Cannon-Smith, MD, FPMRS consulting with each other and Paul Chan, MD helping one another,” Dr. BevanLira Chowdhury, DO Thomas explains. “What do you Weber Chuang, MD do with a patient in post-radiation Adam Cole, MD failure? How do you manage a Patrick Collini, MD patient with an extremely large Zachary Compton, MD prostate and elevated PSA? We don’t Adam Hollander, MD work in silos. We foster a group Troy Houston, PA approach to each patient.”

Patrick Huddleston, MD The camaraderie not only benefits Justin Tabor Lee, MD patients in the day-to-day practice Wendy Leng, MD, FPMRS of medicine, but fuels a passion Tony Mammen, MD that gives rise to ambitious plans F.H. “Trey” Moore, MD designed to offer patients more Blake Neeley, PA options for more affordable care.

Geoffrey Nuss, MD Along with clinics in Arlington, Christopher Pace, MD Fort Worth, Mansfield, Grapevine, Kaitlyn Pizzini, PA Irving, Weatherford and Alliance, Jason Poteet, MD finishing touches are being added to Scott Thurman, MD a new outpatient surgical center and James Clifton Vestal, MD kidney-stone center in Arlington.

Keith Waguespack, MD A new radiation center is under Diane West, MD Big Plans for the Future construction in Fort Worth, and Amanda White, PA For doctors looking for a new there are plans for an in-house Keith Xavier, MD, FPMRS professional home, UPNT pharmacy.

For more information about UPNT, visit upnt.com is attractive on two fronts: “We have so many ideas about or call 866-367-8768. physicians have an opportunity ways we want to deliver more to make a real difference in their comprehensive, more affordable patients’ lives and guide the patient-focused care,” Dr. Collini destiny of the growing practice as an equal partner. adds. “As a new practice, we’ve already accomplished so much in “It’s an ideal setting for someone who wants to continually just two years—especially when you consider the pandemic. We’d improve care and be at the forefront of how care is delivered,” be further along if it weren’t for COVID, but we survived and Dr. Abrahams says. “Some young docs want to be a 9-to-5 we’re better and stronger for it.”

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Urology Partners of North Texas

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27

• THE ARTS

IT’S

SHOW TIME!

These artist renderings show how the entrance and lobby will look at the renovated Theatre Arlington.

Theatre Arlington gets ready to raise the curtain on a new era • By Cathy O’Neal

A

s Broadway and the nation’s live theaters get ready to reopen this fall, Theatre Arlington is planning its return for January 2022 for a dramatic reason. When Arlington’s only live theater opens its 49th season, the curtain will rise on a long overdue renovation, not only bringing the theater up to date, but also taking it into a show-stopping future.

Currently underway at the corner of West Main and West streets, the theater’s update includes: • Updated exterior and entry • Box office • Expanded lobby • Concessions/bar area • Cabaret stage • Comfortable theater seating • Enhanced stage with turntable • Expanded wing space backstage • New dressing rooms • Two new classrooms • State-of-the-art lights, sound and video projection “For many years, the theater has been adequate,” says Executive Producer Steven D. Morris, “but it no longer meets our needs for today’s high-tech shows or has the capacity to take us into the future.”

The $3.3 million project – the biggest in Theatre Arlington history – was designed by LBL Architects to improve the theater’s presence in Arlington’s growing downtown and as a major partner in the Texas state-designated Arlington Cultural Arts District. RJM Construction is handling contractor and construction duties. All of the remodeling is indoors, so there shouldn’t be any weather delays. Construction is slated for completion by December.

Next year brings another exciting change to Theatre Arlington when it becomes a Small Professional Theater with Actors’ Equity

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Association. That designation brings with it elevated production values and more opportunities to hire professional artists on stage and behind the scenes. It also allows Theatre Arlington to help actors and stage managers earn their professional AEA cards as they pursue careers in theater.

The theater recently announced its 2022 season to show off its new bells and whistles and enhanced patron experience. The season opens with the musical, “Sister Act,” followed by August Wilson’s play, “The Piano Lesson.” Spring includes the youth production, “Golde & the Three Bears,” and the musical, “Cabaret.” For the summer, the theater offers “Black Comedy” and Neil Simon’s “Biloxi Blues,” the second in a trilogy of plays Theatre Arlington started before COVID shut its doors. The season wraps up with the thought-provoking play, “The Cake;” a second youth production, “James and the Giant Peach;” and a return of “Hooray for Holidays.”

Theatre Arlington also plans to expand its cabaret series next year and add two more entertainment options, a Comedy Club and a PlayReading Club, where audiences can hear plays that are new works or have edgier content read by actors, then discussed.

With the new season, Morris and the theater staff have made a renewed commitment to diversity, equity and inclusivity. In addition to increased diverse casting, the theater will have one performance of each production ASL interpreted for the deaf and one performance of each youth production will be sensory sensitive, adding to the theater’s inclusivity and making Theatre Arlington the only theater in Tarrant County offering both.

“Our new season will truly have something for everyone,” Morris says. “As we approach our 50th anniversary, the renovation will help Theatre Arlington become the theater our city deserves.”

For more information on Theatre Arlington’s renovation and how you can donate to the project, please visit theatrearlington.org.

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29

• ARLINGTON’S WNBA TEAM

A

s the calendar turns to September, members of Arlington’s “new” professional franchise, the Dallas Wings, are setting their sights on the prospect of an extended post-season run. First, though, there’s the business of getting to the post-season.

At press-time, the Wings had the ninth best record in the WNBA with six regular season games left this month. Given that only eight teams make the playoffs, the locals don’t occupy an ideal position in the climb to the top of the league.

But that’s probably not the most accurate way to measure what the Wings are all about this year – and for the future.

Consider ...

• A month ago, the Wings’ Arike Ogunbowale (pictured below) scored 26 points to win Most Valuable Player honors as the WNBA All-Star team beat the U.S. Olympic team 93-85 in the league’s All-Star Game.

That’s the same U.S. Olympic team that would be earning a seventh straight gold medal a month later in Tokyo.

The WNBA team led 75-73 midway through the fourth quarter before Ogunbowale had a four-point play to extend the advantage to six. Ogunbowale hit another 3-pointer not long thereafter, and the eventual Queens of International Basketball were temporarily dethroned.

It should be noted that Ogunbowale wasn’t the only Wing on the All-Star team. Last year’s second-round drafted choice Satou Sabally joined her in Las Vegas.

• Ogunbowale leads the Wings in scoring (18.6 points per game), assists (3.4 per game) and steals (1.2 per game). But she’s just the most prolific member of a team composed of excellent young talent.

To wit, Marina Mabrey, who entered the league in 2019, is averaging 13.4 points and 4.3 rebounds per game. The aforementioned Sabally scores at a 12.4 points-per-game clip and leads the team in rebounding, averaging 6.4 per contest.

Allisha Gray, who won a gold medal at the Olympics on the U.S. 3-on-3 team, and Isabelle Harrison are also averaging double figures in scoring. And the Wings’ first-year head coach Vickie Johnson is working this year’s No. 1 and No. 2 draft selections – Charli Collier and Awak Kuier – into the mix more regularly as they get more confidence as professional players.

The bottom line: This is a team poised to be successful soon.

• It was noted previously that the Wings had the ninthbest record in the league late in August. They aren’t far from challenging for a much better spot.

In fact, should the young talent find its potential down the September stretch (say, going 4-2 over the final six games), the Wings could finish as high as sixth place. The WNBA is very balanced this year.

So, where does all this leave the team during this very critical juncture of the season? At the very least, the Wings are one of the more exciting squads in the WNBA, adding to the appeal of taking in a home game on Sept. 2, 5, 7, 11 and 19 at UTA’s College Park Center this month.

For more: wings.wnba.com at

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The talented Dallas Wings are poised to make a playoff push Photo: Dallas Wings

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ARLINGTON TODAY • September 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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• UTA TODAY

MAVERICK MILESTONE

UTA achieves prestigious Texas Tier One designation, signifying its consistent excellence in academics and research • By Jeff Carlton

T

he University of Texas at Arlington has become just the fourth institution in the state to achieve designation as a Texas Tier One university, a significant milestone of excellence in academics and research that brings with it access to the state’s National Research University Fund (NRUF).

The first university to achieve Texas Tier One designation in more than three years, UTA reached or exceeded rigorous benchmarks of quality established by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for at least two consecutive years. Those benchmarks include: • Surpassing $45 million in restricted research expenditures; • Awarding more than 200 Ph.D.s each year, which UTA has done for six years in a row; • Being designated a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society; • Enrolling a freshman class of high academic achievement, a criterion for which UTA consistently ranks the highest among universities in the running for NRUF designation; and • Having high-quality faculty, as illustrated by the increase in National Academy members, who are considered the foremost authorities on impactful research in the U.S. and who achieve membership only through significant contributions that advance their fields of study.

“Congratulations to The University of Texas at Arlington for being designated as a Texas Tier One university,” says Governor Greg Abbott. “UTA joins the ranks of other Texas universities recognized by NRUF for their commitment to excellence in research and academics, and this achievement will open the door for additional research funding for the university. This designation will further bolster our state’s dedication to higher education, economic development, and cutting-edge research, and I congratulate the students, professors, and faculty of UTA for achieving this prestigious milestone.”

“As an incubator for innovation and a champion of student access, UT Arlington already is a national model for urban institutions,” UT System Chancellor James B. Milliken says. “The NRUF designation and its exclusive research support will provide more momentum to UT Arlington as it continues its ascent to even greater prominence.

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The culture of research excellence continues to flourish at UT Arlington, and this achievement reflects the campus’ exceptional – and resilient – leaders, researchers and educators.”

Texas lawmakers established the NRUF in 2009 to provide a pathway for emerging research institutions to become national leaders in research output. Texas Tier One status not only signifies that UT Arlington is a leading research university, but also provides additional resources to ensure the University continues to recruit top faculty, pursue groundbreaking research and prepare students to enter one of the strongest workforces in the country.

“This is a game changer for UTA that has been nearly 12 years in the making. Texas Tier One designation is a public invitation to take a fresh look at UTA’s academic and research excellence and the impact this special University is making on the region, the state of Texas and beyond,” says Teik C. Lim, interim president of The University of Texas at Arlington. “This designation is earned through demonstrated commitment to academic and research excellence, and it means that UTA is categorized in Texas as among a small grouping of the state’s highest-quality research universities.”

UTA’s total research expenditures were approximately $125 million in 2020, with restricted and federal research expenditures of $52 million. The University’s ever-growing research portfolio attracts high-achieving students and faculty from across Texas and around the globe, all coming to Arlington to learn, teach, innovate and advance fields of knowledge across subjects as diverse as health care and hypersonics. Faculty and students engage in research on health disparities, gerontology, critical Texas infrastructure for transportation and natural disaster planning, advanced aviation technology, composite materials and much more.

UTA, which has 19 fellows in the National Academy of Inventors, more than any other Texas institution, is among an elite group of 131 institutions designated as R-1: Doctoral Universities—Very High Research Activity, the highest designation, by the Carnegie

The University of Texas at Arlington is just the fourth institution in the state to earn this prestigious designation, which grants UTA access to the National Research University Fund.

Classification of Institutions of Higher Education and is ranked as the third fastest-growing doctoral public institution in the country, according to The Chronicle of Higher Education’s Almanac (2020).

UTA’s Tier One status also underlines its leadership role in the region. With the DFW Metroplex facing growing pressures as a result of substantial population growth, UTA and many of its nearly 240,000 alumni are helping the DFW region and state of Texas take full advantage of the opportunities and challenges this creates. The University is graduating thousands of highly skilled Mavericks each year who are ready to fill open jobs and make immediate impacts within their professions. The University is also partnering with community and corporate leaders to address critical issues and provide solutions in health care, infrastructure, planning, engineering, business, sustainability, arts and music, among others.

When Mavericks graduate, they gain access to jobs at 22 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the North Texas region – the fourth most in the U.S. – and earn the highest first-year salaries of graduates from non-medical UT System institutions, according to the University of Texas System Smartbook 2020.

At the same time, UTA is a champion for access and a beacon for thousands of Texans working to transform their lives through the power of higher education. In fall 2020, the University enrolled the largest and one of the most academically talented freshman classes in UTA history. It is recognized nationally by U.S. News and World Report both as a leading destination for transfer students (fifthmost transfer students nationally) and as having the fifth-highest undergraduate diversity index in the nation.

Looking back at the University’s established goal of achieving Texas Tier One, Lim says, “It truly takes a team working together for such a significant, long-range goal to become reality. I want to express

my personal appreciation to UTA’s world-class faculty, researchers and staff, talented students, and dedicated alumni and supporters on achieving this historic milestone, which was achieved through their unwavering commitment and many years of hard work. I also want to acknowledge and thank former UTA presidents Jim Spaniolo and Vistasp Karbhari for their steadfast vision and leadership in setting UTA on the path to achieve this historic milestone for the University and attaining this esteemed level of academic and research excellence.”

“The Tier One designation and additional research funding through NRUF not only ensure the University will continue to thrive, but also reflect the high caliber of faculty and students who already are working and studying here,” said Marion J. Ball, the Raj and Indra Nooyi Endowed Distinguished Chair in Bioengineering, presidential distinguished professor, executive director of UTA’s Multi-Interprofessional Center for Health Informatics, and a member of the National Academy of Medicine. “The University is a catalyst for research with a global impact and will continue to attract scientists and students at the top of their fields.”

UTA has provided support to the growing student population and research infrastructure. For example, its state-of-the-art, $125 million Science & Engineering Innovation & Research building opened in 2018, ushering in a new era of life and health science discovery focused on interdisciplinary research around major health science challenges such as brain health, cancer, cardiovascular health, healthy aging and rehabilitative medicine. UTA has also constructed new residence halls and a faculty and staff support building and remodeled its University Center. A new $76 million building for the School of Social Work and the College of Nursing and Health Innovation’s Smart Hospital, set for completion in late 2022, will create a new home to teach and train the next generation of social workers and health care professionals.

Just three other universities have achieved Tier One status: Texas Tech, University of Houston and University of Texas at Dallas. arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

33

• REMEMBERING DAVID MORITZ

A PERSONAL REFLECTION S • By Richard Greene

ometimes the people of a city become the beneficiaries of the generosity of a fellow citizen who makes their lives better in many ways. Such is Arlington’s good fortune that David Moritz came our way. He never held any political office, nor did he assert himself in visible leadership roles in community service.

He was always just there for us.

Much has been written and spoken in tribute to him since his passing at the age of 86 last month, and all of it has reminded us of his quiet character and ready support for initiatives, private and public, that helped Arlington emerge into the city we call home.

One of his many remarkable characteristics is that everything he did as the city’s foremost benefactor, he did it all very privately. Denying every request to be identified by the entity or people he was helping, he never wavered from his determination that he was not doing what he did to focus any attention on himself.

During my decade of service as mayor and beyond, there was never a time he declined when I reached out to him for help to achieve something for the people of the city that the local government could not provide.

I often suggested that he let me acknowledge his generosity and explained that doing so would encourage others to follow his lead. It took some arm twisting but he did allow, on occasion, for me to say that he was helping but not to mention the amount of his donation.

Another dimension of his support for community needs was that he often offered non-profit and community service organizations a commitment to match donations from others. That way the non-profit could say to potential donors that their gifts would David Moritz (left) joined Texas Rangers Managing Partner George W. Bush and Mayor Richard Greene to announce the Texas Rangers Baseball be doubled. But he only wanted to be identified as an Foundation’s six-figure donation to the River Legacy Foundation during the anonymous benefactor making such a contribution. opening of The Ballpark in Arlington in 1994. The funding came from the proceeds from the gala opening event of The Ballpark.

The greatest period of involvement that my wife Sylvia and I had with David was in the development of the Living Science Center in River Legacy Park. The challenge my wife faced as the president of the nonprofit River Legacy Foundation was raising $4.5 million to cover the cost of a what would be the city’s first development of an environmentally sustainable building.

She recruited David to help with the fund raising. He hadn’t worked in that role before, instead making his own generous contributions to causes he wanted to support. But he stepped up and approached others who could make sizable contributions of land and money to make the dream of a first quality nature center and the city’s largest park become a reality.

To say he was responsible for the success of the capital campaign that made the center a reality is a matter of fact and has been a remarkable experience for the people of the city and beyond for the past 25 years.

That’s just one example of what he did throughout his lifetime for our community.

If you think about it, the Arlington we know today would be something less than it is had it not been for this remarkable man who elevated our quality of life in ways known and in many other ways we will never know.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • September 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

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35

• LOCAL HEROES

ADVANCED POLI-SCI

Recent UTA grad is the newest member of the Grand Prairie City Council • By Devynn Case

I

n May, Junior Ezeonu graduated from The University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Arts in political science. Less than a month later, he won election to the Place 8 At-Large seat on the Grand Prairie City Council.

At 22 years old, he is the city’s youngest-ever council member, he has been told.

“As a child, I was always interested in history, social studies and government, but I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do,” Ezeonu says. “I’ll never forget my third-grade teacher telling me, ‘Junior, when you grow up and become president, don’t forget about me.’ As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized my

Photo: UTA

passion is truly helping people through public service.”

During the last month of his collegiate career, he was busier than the average senior – finishing classes, running his own campaign and canvassing Grand Prairie to talk to voters. His 36

ARLINGTON TODAY • September 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

election came just three weeks after he graduated summa cum laude from UT Arlington.

“I’m learning firsthand what it really takes,” Ezeonu says. “My advice to young people is always give everything in life a shot.

This has just been a life-changing experience so far.”

Ezeonu grew up in Arlington after immigrating to the United States from Nigeria when he was 2 years old. He moved to Grand Prairie in 2015 and soon began serving as a substitute teacher and tutor throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area. He also started a YouTube channel where he educates young people about politics, government and economics.

Ezeonu believes access to information allows individuals to make informed decisions to better their lives, which is why he dedicates so much of his time to informing and teaching youth.

“I just thank God, and I thank the residents of Grand Prairie for giving me this chance,” he says. “I hope to invest our resources back into the community.”

Rebecca Deen, chair and associate professor of political science at UTA, says Ezeonu was “a joy to teach” and a thoughtful leader of his peers.

“Junior Ezeonu is one of the hardest working, brightest students I have had in a long time,” she says. “Our classes often require collaboration, and he was able to bring out the best in other people by being a careful listener. These qualities – a strong work ethic, a desire to understand and hear people before speaking, wanting others to succeed – will help him be a responsive public servant. We are very proud of him!”

Ezeonu hopes to use his position to continue impacting the lives of others and listening to the concerns of each Grand Prairie resident.

He plans to be in his seat for every city council meeting during his three-year apportionment, as he has a lot to do for his “vibrant and beautiful” city.

“I believe I’ve found my calling,” Ezeonu says.

“This country, this city and this community have given me so many opportunities to be where I am today. I’m so grateful and excited to build something together and make it feel like home for everyone.”

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•

LOCAL DWELLINGS

HOME SWEET! HOME (KITCHEN EDITION)

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ARLINGTON TODAY • September 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

O

ne of the residual benefits of producing our 94th issue of Arlington Today magazine – for the record, that has entailed more than eight straight years of keeping you abreast of local happenings – is that we get to enjoy the perspective provided by chronicling history. Sometimes, it’s city history. Sometimes, it’s someone’s personal history as a civic, corporate, culinary, sports or science-based leader. Sometimes, it’s actual history that is revealed in the form of a pandemic.

In this space, in particular, we’ve been able to see, over and over again, local home dwellers create and then transform their homes. Each of the seven-dozen-plus “Home SWEET! Home” articles represents a celebration of ingenuity and craftsmanship, not to mention a great place to gather. This month, we’re inviting you to gather with us in the kitchen – actually, in 10 kitchens that we have featured through the years. We’re guessing you might pick up some ideas you “can try at home.”

arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

39

•

A SPECIAL FAMILY REUNION

DOG GONE!

Brooklyn Richardson reunited with Murphy, a month after the dog ran away during a family vacation.

(And then found!, some 1,200 miles from home, thanks to some very helpful strangers)

• By Susan Schrock

O

ne Arlington family now considers Friday the 13th a very lucky day after their missing dog Murphy was discovered one month after he escaped while on vacation 1,200 miles away from home.

Brooklyn Richardson says her family was hiking Carlton’s Peak in Superior National Forest on July 13 when Murphy, who they were fostering from Little Dog Rescue North Texas, got startled and took off – leash and all. The family spent three days searching for their shy little dog but were unable to find him.

But thanks to the nonprofit Little Dog Rescue North Texas and the kindness of strangers in Tofte, Minn., Murphy returned home to Arlington last month.

Donations from fellow pet lovers allowed Little Dog Rescue North Texas to pay for mailers with Murphy’s photo and contact information to be distributed to homes in a 20-mile radius of Carlton’s Peak. Weeks went by, but then an 11-year-old girl spotted Murphy on the side of the highway and recognized him and his bright orange harness from the photo on the mailer. Soon, he was at the vet getting a checkup, and the Richardson family was resting easier knowing their dog was safe.

Brooklyn Richardson chronicled the month-long search on social media for about a month, including her trip to Tofte to retrieve Murphy. The small dog lost three pounds and had a few minor injuries from his misadventures but is otherwise in good condition.

“I am up here now and just amazed by the kindness of strangers. We have met the wonderful people who found him. We even stayed with one of them in her house. She literally opened her home up to strangers,” Richardson said upon her reunion with Murphy. “This Tofte community is incredible.”

Arlington resident Donna Darovich is a volunteer with Little

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ARLINGTON TODAY • September 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

Photo: City of Arlington

Dog Rescue of North Texas and was the person who originally brought the two-year-old neglected dog from Weatherford to the Richardson family in Arlington. Murphy is an example one of the many deserving dogs the nonprofit helps find a second chance, she says.

“It always makes my day when I have any role in saving a little dog from a situation where it has been abused, abandoned or is a last-minute rescue from a euthanasia list at an overcrowded shelter,” Darovich says. “I have fostered many dogs, but even if all I can do is just transport them to their temporary foster home or to their adopter, I can’t stop smiling, knowing I helped get them to a place where they are sheltered, fed and loved, maybe for the first time in their life.”

While Murphy was spotted because of a lost dog flyer, he was micro-chipped and has now been formally adopted by the family, Richardson says.

Arlington Animal Services reminds residents about the importance of micro-chipping their pets and making sure the contact information is kept up to date. People move, addresses and telephone numbers may change, and on rare occasions even a tiny microchip can move. Checking the chip each year to make sure it is detectable, and that the information is correct can make the difference in a joyful celebration reuniting with a pet if it ever gets lost or stolen.

For more on Arlington Animal Services: arlingtontx.gov/city_ hall/departments/animal_services. To donate toward Murphy’s vet bills: paypal.me/littledogrescue.

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• BEHIND THE WHEELS

SOMETHING DIFFERENT

AND REMARKABLE

R

egular readers of our monthly feature on classic cars have likely turned to this page and wondered what’s up with this old bicycle with some kind of motor attached.

I’ll explain.

What you are looking at is the oldest known original, unrestored, running American motorcycle in existence.

What’s more, we know its first owner, or, at least, his fascinating tale.

W. B. Twiss’ transportation while in college at Dartmouth and graduate school at Harvard was this 1902 Indian Motorcycle – the 14th assembled by the company that preceded Harley Davidson by more than a year.

When Mr. Twiss took a position as an English Instructor at Rutgers University, believing he would be frowned upon riding the motorcycle around campus by the conservative faculty there, he transported the Indian to his new home in New Jersey inside a crude crate made from scrap lumber.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • September 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

• By Richard Greene

He stored it in his basement for 61 years until he sold it to a plumber who left it untouched and still in its crate until removed last year, some 111 years after Twiss had put it aside.

That removal and uncrating was meticulously accomplished by its current owner Shawn Coady, a secondgeneration classic car collector and motorcycle enthusiast, who realized he had come into possession of an extremely rare artifact of American history.

In 1902, Indian sold a modest 143 motorcycles during the early years when automobiles were few and expensive.

The $200 Indian was a more attainable mode of personal transportation. By 1913, the company was the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world, producing more than 32,000 annually.

Coady explains that the first Indian represents the forefront of motorized transportation in America, predating the first U.S. gas station by four years and Ford’s Model T by seven. >>>

The tedious process of preservation Shawn Coady, current owner of this 1902 Indian motorcycle, enlisted the help of Brian, Collin and Braeden Howard to preserve, rather than restore, this classic vehicle.

That work progressed over a period of eight months, as the team used Q-tips, small brushes, experimental solvents, and tiny tools in an effort to remove some of the rust and decades-old debris to reveal, not damage, the original finishes.

Before, meet after

Before

after

The painstaking – and timeconsuming – efforts of Coady and the Howards is displayed in remarkable detail in these three “Before/After” comparisons.

Their mission from the start was to present the historic motorbike as a work of museum-quality conservation true to when it came out of the Indian factory in 1902.

Before

after

Before

after

arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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His mission has been to preserve the vehicle, not to restore it. The purpose being to present it as a work of museum-quality conservation true to when it came out of the Indian factory in 1902.

So, he put the team of Brian, Collin and Braeden Howard together with that assignment.

Documented on these pages is how that work progressed over a period of eight months. Yes, those are Q-tips, small brushes, experimental solvents, and tiny tools in the hands of those whose mission was to remove some of the rust and decades-old debris to reveal, not damage, the original finishes.

In the process they also discovered some remaining 100-year-old oil in the crankcase still in pretty good condition.

Now, here’s something they achieved that is amazing. They didn’t want to risk damage to the motor by disassembling it so they could make an internal inspection. All the mechanicals appeared to function, so they decided, after lots of back-and-forth discussions, that attempting to start the motor was a risk worth taking. With the spark from a 100-year-old spark plug, it ran for the first time in 111 years.

Next stop for Coady was to enter it in the prestigious annual assembly of the world’s most spectacular motor vehicles known as The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. The event has been staged over the past 20 years in Monterey, Calif.

Surrounded by automobiles valued well into seven and eight figures, the Indian was recognized with the coveted Spirit of The Quail award – second only to the best of show prize reserved for the best of the 200 automobiles that annually enter the competition.

To provide a little more perspective for an event most folks aren’t familiar with, tickets, limited to a maximum number of 5,000 spectators to allow for the best fan experience, start at $550 and then sell on the aftermarket for twice that sum.

What’s next for the 1901 Indian is a featurelength documentary film being produced by my son Brian. Now you know how I discovered this rarity and was able to make it something different in this month’s feature.

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The road to Glory From the time it arrived to the final test start that worked, this vehicle’s path to success ultimately led to The Quail – and a Spirit of the Quail award.

Enjoy Enjoy aa casual casual evening evening for for adults adults under under the the stars stars during during River River Legacy Legacy Foundation's Foundation's A A Night Night with with Nature Nature fundraising fundraising event event to to benefit benefit the the environmental environmental education education programs programsat at the the Nature Nature Center Center and and help help more more children children experience experiencetheir their "first "first walk walk in in the the woods." woods."

The The evening evening will will include: include:

•• Open Open bar bar with with beer, beer, wine, wine, and and craft craft cocktails cocktails •• Delicious Delicious dinner dinner & & desserts desserts •• S'mores S'mores by by the the fire fire Live Live animal animal explorations explorations Raffles Raffles && wine wine pull... pull... and much more. and much more.

FRIDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 5, 5, 2021 2021 7 TO 10 PM PM Thank You To Our Sponsors & Annual Partners Thank You To Our Sponsors & Annual Partners

For For more more information information visit... visit...

www.riverlegacy.org/a-night-with-nature www.riverlegacy.org/a-night-with-nature47 arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

• THE GREATER ARLINGTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BRIDGING THE GAP

“By investing in our students, we are creating the type of future workforce our community needs.

We also recognize that student development is only half of the equation,” said Michael Jacobson, Chamber President & CEO, “PIE • By Britton Merritt programs and initiatives would not Vice President, Marketing & Communications be successful without the buy-in from our business community.”

Through PIE, businesses can shape the future of their company by building a sustainable talent pipeline. When local businesses engage, they also earn social capital with their employees, clients and customers as a reputable eople are the most valuable resource for businesses. Creating business invested and committed to developing our community’s a talent pipeline allows companies to succeed, expand and future. Establishing these relationships serves as a foundation compete in our ever-evolving business world. Despite our to create open lines of communications which have the power country’s large workforce, 45% of small businesses struggle to to directly impact curriculum and industry-specific certification find employees with the skills they need (ManpowerGroup’s 2018 programs.

Talent Shortage Survey). To remain innovative and competitive, Businesses can engage with PIE through a simple, three-tiered businesses need to reach local talent early. model. Tier 1 of PIE, Show Your Support, involves businesses The greater Arlington business community knows that providing resources or time. This includes collecting school investing in the future workforce of our City results in higher supplies, participating in campus beautification projects and paying jobs, more qualified workers and overall better quality encouraging others to get involved. of life for all citizens. Accomplishing a goal so robust and Tier 2, Guide Our Youth, encourages business leaders and multifaceted requires a dedicated team of volunteers. Lucky for their employees to get involved by providing guidance and us, we have the Partners in Education (PIE) program working mentorship. This includes volunteering at events such as career behind the scenes to bridge the gap between the business fairs, joining a campus group and becoming a mentor or field trip community and the educational process. chaperone.

A partnership between the Greater Arlington Chamber of Tier 3, Lead the Change, involves taking an active role in Commerce and the Arlington Independent School District (AISD), investing in the future of the community. This is where we see PIE brings business leaders and educators together to offer a the talent pipeline actively working. PIE recruits businesses to be continuum of career exploration and mentorship beginning in a part of the Practicum Program within the AISD’s Dan Dipert elementary school and ending with an internship during their Career + Technical Center where they can host AISD seniors to senior year. PIE exclusively serves the AISD and builds a better intern at their business. During the last school year, 184 students workforce by exposing AISD students to various industries were successfully placed with 50 local businesses. and career opportunities by implementing several workforce Education is key to our prosperity, and we’re fortunate to have development initiatives in K-12 education. a group like PIE creating mutually beneficial relationships for As business and community leaders, we have a responsibility both students and local businesses. To learn more or get involved, to develop the next generation by investing time and resources in email education@arlingtontx.com. new and innovative educational programs and initiatives.

P

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• SENIOR LIVING

LIFE JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER, doesn’t it? And Overture Highlands is the perfect place to live it.

Overture Highlands is a welcoming, active adult community filled with intriguing people and countless ways to get to spend your time. All residents enjoy a gorgeous apartment home, with resort-inspired amenities and services focused on your specific needs and desires.

At Overture Highlands you can maintain your relationships, your health and fitness, and your financial independence. You can find moments of joy, or experience new learnings and pursuits.

An overall feeling of joy and well-being becomes part of each day of your new active adult lifestyle. It’s a location with over 30 restaurants within a one-mile radius and easy access to Interstate 20, and SH 360 and US 287. It is maintenance-free living that keeps your focus where it belongs: on enjoying life your way.

For more: liveoverture.com/overturehighlands.

THE AMON G. CARTER FOUNDATION HEART AND VASCULAR CENTER, located in the 110,000-square-foot Tower Two at Methodist Mansfield Center, expands Methodist Mansfield Medical Center’s cardiology services, bringing advanced care to the heart of Mansfield and the surrounding communities.

Designed with the patient in mind, the Heart and Vascular Center provides a wide range of cardiac procedures, from open heart surgery to diagnostic and interventional cardiology. methodisthealthsystem. org/methodist-mansfieldmedical-center/

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THE ARLINGTON WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S will take place at 1650 E. Randol Mill Road on Saturday, Nov. 20.

Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease.

While there is no fee to register for Walk, all participants are encouraged to raise critical funds that allow the Alzheimer’s Association to provide 24/7 care and support and advance research toward methods of prevention, treatment and, ultimately, a cure.

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is full of flowers, each carried by someone committed to ending this disease. If you’d like to take up a flower and join the local fundraising effort, visit alz.org/walk.

JUST DANCE

Here’s how several local entities are helping to ensure that the region’s senior citizens can make the most of their Golden Years

Dr. Kenyon Godwin, founder of Active Family Wellness Centers in Arlington, has joined a new team of healthcare providers: CURIS FUNCTIONAL HEALTH. Though the name has changed, the services provided to seniors by Dr. Godwin and his stellar team remain a local godsend. In fact, there are even more ways seniors can get back to a normal and everyday routine – and even better life.

For more: gocuris.com.

THE PILATES EFFECT is a fully equipped Pilates Studio dedicated to the overall well being of our clients, no matter your age or previous fitness experience.

Our goal is to increase our clients’ quality of life and to develop all muscles, transforming their body to the fullest, achieving personal fitness goals and improving your everyday physical lifestyle.

By only focusing on the superficial larger muscle groups, there are so many deep muscular stabilizers beneath not being developed or utilized.

By concentrating on these muscles using the Pilates principles, over time you will create stronger, leaner muscles, improving posture, increasing core strength, mobility and stability creating benefits you will see in your everyday life. Pilates is your answer to a healthier way of fitness and lifestyle!

For more: http://thepilateseffect.com.

ARLINGTON TODAY • September 2021 • arlingtontoday.com

SAVE THE DATE

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER TARRANT COUNTY

Gala

2021 YOUTH OF THE YEAR

ON THE FIELD AT AT&T STADIUM | OCTOBER 7, 2021 | 6:00 PM

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: DALLAS COWBOYS LEGEND, DEMARCUS WARE PRESENTED BY

tional initiative that celebrates the remarkable lives of kids who have overcome challenges and distinguished themselves with outstanding contributions to their communities. Throughout the evening, you will hear incredible stories from our 2021 Youth of the Year, Imani, our Keynote Speaker, DeMarcus Ware, and other advocates of our Club.

JOIN OUR MAJOR SPONSORS

Karen & Larry Anfin | BakerHostetler | Candlelite Inn | Frost Bank | Dr. John & Julie Landry | Varagon Capital Erin & Peter Bergman | Con Real | HUB International Fort Worth | LIV Group | Chris & Emily Milliken | PlainsCapital Bank PNC Bank | PRA Group | Dana Tomechko

Media and Advertising Sponsors:

Sponsors as of 8.15.21

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS AND SPONSORSHIPS ON SALE NOW! Scan the code, visit bgcgtc.org or contact us at (817) 720-9361 | ext 209 or nantonitis@bgcgtc.org

arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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• PICTURE-PERFECT MOMENTS

Scene

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

Texas Trust Credit Union’s Ron Smith honored Ron Smith of Texas Trust Credit Union was named Small Business Champion by the Arlington Black Chamber of Commerce.

Take 6 at the Levitt Pavilion

Photo: City of Arlington

Take 6 will highlight a North Texas Giving Day evening at the Levitt Pavilion on Sept. 23. Festivities will begin at 7:30 p.m.

You can win the use of this block party trailer You have until Sept. 15 to register to win this block party trailer for your fall party. You can enter at https://bit.ly/2WaRZza.

The heroic rescue of Zoey

Texas Fusion Fest at The LOT Downtown

Photos: City of Arlington Photos: The LOT Downtown

The Texas Fusion Fest at The LOT Downtown in Mansfield provided a day (and night) of outstanding music – and, even, some romance – for hundreds of fest goers.

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Members of the Arlington Fire Department (along with help from other city workers and agencies) became heroes last month during a 10-hour rescue operation that freed Zoey after the dog became trapped in a storm drain.

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• MAINLY MANSFIELD

Renderings: City of Mansfield

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN IS

T

he City of Mansfield is set to begin a transformative mixed-use development project in Historic Downtown Mansfield that will reinvigorate the district and catalyze future development.

The development – in collaboration with Hoque Global, a Dallas-based investment firm – will bring residential, retail, recreational, office and parking space to four acres of land along Smith and Elm streets in Historic Downtown Mansfield. Also planned are an innovation center that will foster and encourage entrepreneurial endeavors in the heart of Mansfield and an above-ground parking garage near Smith and Depot streets.

Furthermore, the development will enhance the walkability of the neighborhood to expand its accessibility and promote passive activation from the Pond Branch Linear Park trail.

“For many years, our city’s leaders have been patiently waiting for a development that will revitalize this fouracre stretch of city-owned land in Historic Downtown Mansfield and position the neighborhood for long-term growth,” Mansfield City Manager Joe Smolinski says. “That development is here.”

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The development – designed by award-winning architectural firm Merriman-Anderson – is a continuation of the City of Mansfield’s efforts to invest in the Historic Downtown district. In recent years, the city has completely reconstructed South Main Street, built the Pond Branch Linear Park, renovated the North Main Street Trail and positioned Historic Downtown Mansfield as an attractive tourist destination.

“Historic Downtown Mansfield is one of our city’s most beloved districts – one that has been essential to Mansfield’s storied past,” Mansfield Mayor Michael Evans says. “This development will modernize this neighborhood and put businesses already in the area in a position to thrive for years to come. It is a win for the Mansfield community and a win for businesses current and future.”

“Downtown Mansfield has served as a place to live, work, and play for many generations before us. It’s truly exciting to align ourselves with a proven developer, Hoque Global, that specializes in revitalization,” says Todd Tonore, Mayor Pro Tem and Chairman of the Historic Downtown Mansfield

ABOUT TO GET A FACELIFT Revitalization Subcommittee. “Hoque Global currently has a $300 million project in Downtown Dallas. This $50 million project for Mansfield will be the catalyst to many other projects in the Historic Downtown area.”

The announcement of this project comes one year after the City of Mansfield adopted a comprehensive set of strategies for the continued development of Historic Downtown Mansfield – one of which was for the city to use its Downtown real estate assets “to catalyze and sustain private development activity.”

“We are very excited to welcome Hoque Global to Historic Downtown Mansfield,” Assistant City Manager Matt Jones says.

“Their project is a livable and dynamic mixed-use development that will serve as an economic engine and support our goal to maintain a fiscally sustainable economy. We look forward to seeing more people and new office, dining, and shopping opportunities downtown. This transformative development further advances our vision of being a vibrant hometown.”

“We are looking forward to working closely with Hoque Global and their partners to enhance Historic Downtown Mansfield’s distinct cultural, economic, and physical flavor,”

says Jason Alexander, Director of Planning for the City of Mansfield. “This is an extremely exciting project that promises to raise the bar for connectivity and urban design in downtown without compromising the delivery of distinct opportunities for living, working, and gathering.”

The City of Mansfield aims to break ground on the development within the next 18 months. Once ground is broken, construction is estimated to last for 24 months. In the coming months, the City of Mansfield and Hoque Global will continue to finalize the architectural design, amenities and other details of the development.

“We are excited to partner with the City of Mansfield on this catalytic project that will help achieve the City’s strategic goals,” says Arthur Santa-Maria, Hoque Global’s Vice President of Investment and Development. “Mansfield’s strong leadership is reflected in the City’s steady growth and success, and the Downtown Mansfield development will have a major impact on continued progress for the community. This project completely aligns with Hoque Global’s mission of development with transformative economic and cultural impact.” arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Help us Save the Day at this

EPIC EVENT! CASA OF TARRANT COUNTY’S

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

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To register visit SpeakUpForAChild.org

SAVE THE DATE Friday, October 29, 2021 1010 N Collins St, Arlington, TX 76011

Sponsors

Tickets go on sale on September 1st Sponsorships are still available. Contact kim@theatrearlington.org or 817.261.9628 x202

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ORDER ONLINE! WE DELIVER!

NothingBundtCakes.com 09/31/2021

arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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• NEWS & NOTES

Bulletin Board City taps electric vehicles for police, code compliance and fleet service use

T

he City of Arlington’s first fleet of electric vehicles has hit the streets. The six Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicles, which replaced older City vehicles that had exceeded their useful service life, arrived this summer and are now being used by the Arlington Police Department, Code Compliance and Fleet Services.

The purchase of these electric vehicles is based on the direction of the Arlington City Council’s Environmental Task Force to transition the City’s fleet from gasoline and diesel vehicles to electric vehicles in an effort to minimize emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has designated 10 counties in North Central Texas, including Tarrant County, as nonattainment for the pollutant ozone.

Transportation-related activities are a focus in reducing air pollution as approximately two-thirds of nitrogen oxides emissions in the region come from mobile sources such onroad vehicles and off-road equipment.

The six electric vehicles were purchased for $166,150 through the Texas Local Government Purchase Cooperative.

City expands reach to Latino population

T

he City of Arlington has launched a new Facebook page to increase communication and outreach to its Spanish-speaking residents.

The page, https://www.facebook.com/ciudaddearlingtontx, will feature a mixture of translated posts about important events and city services, as well as organic multimedia content that will be found exclusively on the Ciudad de Arlington, TX Facebook page.

Cynthia Lemus, a Lone Star Emmy Award-winning video journalist, is part of the project as a coordinator for the City’s Office of Communication. She comes to Arlington after working at Univision since 2016. She will host exclusive video programming on a variety of Arlington’s digital communication channels, increasing inclusivity in the City’s overall marketing efforts and celebrating Arlington’s vibrant Latino residents and visitors.

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Stadiumlinks to set up golf course at Globe Life Field

S

tadiumlinks will transform Globe Life Field into a uniquely designed, nine-hole golf course on Friday, Oct. 8 and Saturday, Oct. 9.

Pre-sale tickets went on sale last month for Texas Rangers Season Ticket Members and Registered Users. General public tickets will be available for purchase at texasrangers. com/stadiumlinks.

“This event gives the public the rare experience of hitting some of the most memorable golf shots imaginable from nine different locations throughout the newest ballpark in Major League Baseball,” says Jon Stephens, founder of Stadiumlinks.

Various tee times will be available for twoperson and four-person groups. The nine-hole course will include unique hole locations positioned on nearly every level of the ballpark, with target greens located on the playing field below. An upgraded VIP Package with enhanced amenities is also available.

Ramblin’ Roads

Festival to bring all manner of musical acts (and more) to the city of Arlington next month

T

he 2021 Ramblin’ Roads Music Festival, a new celebration of the diverse music, people, and memories that come together for the best road trip, is coming to Arlington on Oct. 1-3.

With more than 60 events, 50+ bands, 18 venues all in one weekend, festival goers can experience an eclectic mix of live music throughout Arlington stages, including the Levitt Pavilion, Arlington Music Hall, Texas Live!, plus other venues.

In addition,there will be several special events, including Jazz in the Park, Urban Artisan Market, “Start the Journey” Youth Voice Competition, a Classic Car Show and Sunday Gospel Brunch with The Franklin Imagine Group.

With multiple ticket options, “roadtrippers” can choose their favorite journey of Country, Latin, Rock, Pop, Electronica, Americana, Jazz/Blues, Bluegrass, New Talent and much more throughout dozens of venue experiences from outdoor arenas to intimate listening rooms, all in three days, all in Arlington!

You can visit the website RamblinRoadsFest.com to purchase tickets and learn more about Ramblin’ Roads.

Here are artists scheduled to perform: Friday, Oct. 1 Bobby Pulido with Monica Saldivar, Mike Ryan with Wynn Williams, Gene Watson, Ariel Hutchins, Velvet Love Box, Brandon Steadman Band, Cherry Mantis, Shailaun, Jesse Jennings, Devin Leigh, The Texas Cartel, Able Delilah, Mutha Falcon, Estacado, Flight By Nothing, Mike Freiley & Lava Bomb, Billy Star, Sunny Disposition, DTB, Bar Stool Brothers Saturday, Oct. 2 Chromeo, William Clark Green with Shaker Hymns & Jesse Stratton, Jamestown Revival, Wild Fire, Electric Tongues, September Moon, Damoyee, Legacy 4, Smoking with Strangers, Tamara King, Artemis Funk, Jackie Minton, Lance Battalion, Taylor Young Band, 2:14, Igimeji, Patrick Pombuena Community Orchestra, Lance Battalion,

Window Seat, John Hale, Jimmy Barcus, The Martin Brothers Sunday, Oct. 3 La Original Sonora Dinamita with Grupo Control and Grupo Ferozz, Tatiana Ladymay, Dan Cavanagh Quartet featuring Grammy Nominee Remy Le Boeuf, Shaun Martin Trio, Big Ass Brass Band, Don Pendley, Watusi, Jesse Spradlin, Artboyp, Blake Dagley, Brad Fielder, Aaron Cooper Duo, Pinebox Serenade, Holly And The Mystery Lights, Phil Hollie, Prettyklawz, Lemonade Stand, Melon Soda Country/American Headliners: Gene Watson – Friday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. (VIP only), Arlington Music Hall. Wynn Williams – Friday, Oct. 1 at 8 p.m., Texas Live!. Mike Ryan – Friday, Oct. 1 at 9:30 p.m., Texas Live!. Ariel Hutchins – Friday, Oct. 1 at 10 p.m., Arlington Music Hall.

Jesse Stratton – Saturday, Oct. 2 at 6 p.m., Levitt Pavilion. Shaker Hymns – Saturday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m., Levitt Pavilion. Jamestown Revival – Saturday, Oct. 2 at 7:30 p.m., Arlington Music Hall. September Moon – Saturday, Oct. 2 at 8 p.m., J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill. William Clark Green – Saturday, Oct. 2 at 8:30 p.m., Levitt Pavilion.

Wild Fire – Saturday, Oct. 2 at 11 p.m., Arlington Music Hall.

Latin Headliners: Monica Saldivar – Friday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m., Levitt Pavilion. Bobby Pulido – Friday, Oct. 1 at 8:30 p.m., Levitt Pavilion. Grupo Control – Sunday, Oct. 3 at 8 p.m., Texas Live!. La Sonora Dinamita – Sunday, Oct. 3 at 9:30 p.m., Texas Live!.

Pop/Electronic Headliners: Electric Tongues – Saturday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m., Texas Live!. Chromeo – Saturday, Oct. 2 at 9 p.m., Texas Live!.

Jazz Headliners: Dan Cavanagh Quartet with Remy Le Boeuf – Sunday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m., Levitt Pavilion. Shaun Martin Trio – Sunday, Oct. 3 at 6 p.m., Levitt Pavilion.

Big Ass Brass Band – Sunday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m., Levitt Pavilion. Tatiana “LadyMay” Mayfield – Sunday, Oct. 3 at 8:30 p.m., Levitt Pavilion.

arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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• DINING GUIDE

Keen Cuisine UPSCALE

Cut & Bourbon

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

AMERICAN

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

The Keg

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

MEXICAN / TEX-MEX

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

El Arroyo

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

ITALIAN / PIZZA

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

BARBECUE

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

INTERNATIONAL

Prince Lebanese Grill • 502 W. Randol Mill • 817-469-1811• princelebanesegrill.com 60

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Cafe Sicilia

THESE FLOWERS HAVE A LOT OF FIGHT IN THEM. Arlington Walk

Saturday, November 20

Texas Live!

1650 E Randol Mill Rd. Arlington, TX 76011

Scan the QR Code below to get started or visit alz.org/walk

2021 LOCAL SPONSORS

2021 NATIONAL PRESENTING SPONSORS

JOIN THE ARLINGTON POLICE FOUNDATION AT

PA R TE E

FOR A FUNDRAISING September 23rd at 5:30pm • TOPGOLF 2201 E. 4th St. • Fort Worth Dinner, Golf, and Hole in One Contest.

For more information visit http:/ /bidpal.net/topgolf2021 email bethany@arlingtonpolicefoundation.org

Thank you to our Underwriters Dinner Underwriter

Game Play Underwriter

Hole In One Underwriter

Bay Sponsors

Media Sponsor

Becky and Mike Gerro arlingtontoday.com • September 2021 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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• SPEAKING OF SPORTS Dallas Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman had an MVP game in the Super Bowl in 1993 – and it paved the way to one of my favorite memories as a broadcaster.

A special memory of a special game

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Photo: mysanantonio.com

visited some of the famous establishments on the Sunset Strip ou can hear the sounds of the ocean from the water-view and elsewhere in LA. One night we happened into Jumbo’s rooms at the Loews Hotel in Santa Monica, Calif. In Clown Room. There at the bar was Ken Kercheval – better January of 1993 I wasn’t supposed to be sleeping there. known to most of us as Cliff Barnes on the TV show Dallas. We NBC5 had secured two rooms in the Cowboys team hotel, introduced ourselves as a TV crew from North Texas. He invited but they were designated workrooms. I was part of a crew of 20 us to join him, picked up our tab and asked questions about Joe or more that had been dispatched to California to cover Super T Garcia’s and other North Texas landmarks.

Bowl XXVII. After spending Friday and Saturday nights listening to the As a cub reporter I was working around the clock to cover my sound of seagulls and editing equipment, it was finally time for first Super Bowl. And when the editing equipment, set up on the the game. We arrived at the Rose Bowl some eight hours before desks in the room, began to look like a blurry mass of electronics kickoff. I felt like I was living a dream as we pulled up. and blinking lights, I knew it was time to sleep. What the heck?

Having grown up in Big Ten country I watched the Rose Bowl We had two beds in our “workroom.” So I would open the every year but had never attended. Now here we were walking sliding doors, smell the ocean, feel the cool breeze and hear the into that storied stadium for a Super crashing waves as I drifted off into Super Bowl. I went straight down the tunnel Bowl dream land. and walked onto the field. The seats of After 39 years of covering sports, the empty stadium sprawled before me, the two weeks I spent covering that the palm trees peeking above the walls Super Bowl still ranks as one of the best John Rhadigan of the stadium outlined against a bright moments of my career. It began with a blue sky. trip to Thousand Oaks. I had heard so I took it in and said to the fellow much about Cowboys Training Camp EVEN NOW, ALMOST three standing next to me, “Wow!” He was at California Lutheran College. My first decades later, I can recall taken aback, too, and is much more year covering the Cowboys was the each detail of this Dallas eloquent than I. He said, “They should season they moved training camp back play the Super Bowl here every year.” to Texas at St Edward’s University in Cowboys moment in time.

Something about the voice was Austin. Each day on the sidelines of the familiar, so I turned to see the National Anthem singer for the practice fields at St. Ed’s I would hear tales of how great training game that night standing next to me. It was Garth Brooks. camp in California had been. So I was anxious to see it. By late The game was unbelievable. The Cowboys were not even January of 1993 the practice fields at California Lutheran were expected to be there, much less to be able to compete with the overgrown. There were still several pieces of exercise equipment Buffalo Bills, who were making their third consecutive trip to scattered about. Weeds and rust covered them, even though it the ultimate game. Led by a defense that forced a Super Bowl never rains in Southern California. Or so I am told. It was an record nine turnovers, the Cowboys won 52-17. Troy Aikman eerie reminder of glory days gone by. was the MVP as he turned most of those turnovers into Amazingly, a new set of glory days was about to be born just touchdowns. He completed 22 of 30 passes for 273 yards and 57 miles away. The Rose Bowl in Pasadena was the sight of the four touchdowns. game that year. We spent the week attending press conferences After the game, we were on the field watching confetti fall, and practices. The Cowboys’ designated training complex for interviewing players broadcasting the remarkable results of the the week was UCLA. It is a beautiful campus in the midst of a game back to the Metroplex. As we were preparing to head back beautiful part of town. At night, when we weren’t editing, we Sports columnist John Rhadigan is an anchor for the Bally Sports Southwest television network.

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to the hotel, one of the NBC5 bosses said to me, “We are going to keep you here for a couple of more days. Troy is going to be a guest on Jay Leno tomorrow night, and we have been granted access to cover his appearance.”

So the next night there I was in beautiful downtown Burbank, on the set of the Tonight Show.

Jay Leno greeted me personally. I got to hang out with the band, and suddenly there I was in the green room. Just me, the camera operator, Kerry Smith, and the Most Valuable Player of the Super Bowl.

We interviewed him, chatted, laughed about the game, and then, suddenly, the other guest walked in.

We had seen her perform in Austin, and she was about to burst into mainstream music with her Grammy Award-winning-hit “Sunny Came Home.” It was Shawn Colvin.

Our story that Monday night was the lead story on the newscast, and we felt an unbelievable sense of accomplishment. We spent two weeks and two days in California. We covered the Cowboys past at Thousand Oaks, we covered the Cowboys present at the Rose Bowl, and we were pretty sure the Cowboys future was pretty darn bright, too.

It was time to head back to the hotel – not the Loews; we were in a Holiday Inn that night, near the airport.

And yet, somehow, I felt like I could still hear the waves and feel those ocean breezes.

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• EVENTS, ETC.

Itinerary

Dallas Cowboys football

The Dallas Cowboys won’t have a 2021 regular season home game until Sept. 27, but the match-up pitting the Cowboys against the rival Philadelphia Eagles should be worth the wait. Kickoff is at 7:15 p.m. at AT&T Stadium. dallascowboys.com Photo: insidetheiggles.com

This month, Catalyst Creative Arts (400 E. Division St.) will host a SUCCULENT GARDEN PLANTER - THREE WEDNESDAY’S WORKSHOP. At this fun and educational workshop attendees will be hand building their own ceramic succulent garden planters.

There are two designs to choose from. Class leaders will guide you each step of the way. On the first Wednesday (Sept. 8) you will build your planter. On the second Wednesday (Sept. 15) you will glaze your planter. On the third Wednesday (Sept. 22) you will plant your garden. catalystcreativearts.com/event/550.html

THE ARLINGTON FIELD OF HONOR, a local commemoration of Patriot Day, will be on display at Veterans Park (3600 W. Arkansas Lane) from Sept. 4-11.

Some 911 full-size American Flags will fly over the park grounds as part of a tribute to one of the more significant occasions in American history.

Individuals and groups may sponsor this event (prices range from $250$5,000). In addition to the flag commemoration, there will be a Stars, Stripes and remembrance concert featuring Lee Greenwood and Deana Carter at 6 p.m. on Sept. 11 at Levitt Pavilion Arlington. This concert requires a ticket purchase. Reserved seating is available, as well as General Admission. General Admission is first-come, first-serve. Chairs will be provided for reserved seating. arlingtonfoh.org/events

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Texas Rangers baseball

This month, your Texas Rangers will wrap up the 2021 major league baseball season with home series against the Houston Astros (Sept.

13-16), the Chicago White Sox (Sept. 17-19), and the Los Angeles Angels (Sept. 28-30). mlb.com/rangers Photo: mlb.com/rangers

Timeless Concerts concerts

Timeless Concerts will present “France to Argentina” at 8 p.m. on Sept. 25 at the Rose Garden Tea Room in Gracie Lane (4720 S. Cooper St.). The evening will feature the music of Bizet’s Carmen and tangos by Piazzolla (and more). timelessconcerts.com Photo: timelessconcerts.com

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• FINISH LINE

Arlington is Major League (still)

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ext spring Arlington will celebrate its 50th anniversary as a Major League city, and this year seems to be setting the stage to commemorate the privilege of being one of the few places in the world hosting the National Game.

On that stage we’ve seen a dramatic reminder of the passion that people everywhere have for baseball. It came with a game between the New York Yankees and Chicago White Sox that was played last month on the Field of Dreams in Iowa.

Staged in a cornfield, it was a game between two teams vying to make the playoffs in October, and it’s hard to imagine how the outcome could have been more exciting.

Reminiscent of the 1989 Academy Award nominated movie, it brought back all the reasons our country has been devoted to baseball for more than 150 years.

The FOX Sports nationally televised game, drawing an audience of almost six million fans, was the most watched regular season game in 16 years.

In the end, it confirmed the famous Terrance Mann quote from the movie, “The one constant through all the years has been baseball. Baseball has marked the time. This field, this game: it’s part of our past. It reminds us of all that once was good and it could be again.”

Our hometown has now been linked to all of that for five decades and, even in a year when our Texas Rangers are mired in last place, attendance at our new Globe Life Field has, as of this writing, exceeded that of all but two other of the Major League’s 30 teams.

If you are looking for evidence of support for the Rangers as they work their way through a multi-year rebuilding process, you can find it on the occasion last month of the addition of two new members into the team’s Hall of Fame.

In an hour-long, on-field ceremony, more than 30,000 fans witnessed the induction of public address announcer Chuck Morgan and third baseman Adrian Beltre as the Hall’s newest members.

• By Richard Greene

Both of these men add significantly to the Rangers’ legacy at the national level.

No other announcer can match Chuck’s 39-year record of never missing a single game, 3,000 of them and counting, in his on-going career behind the microphone.

Former Rangers President Tom Schieffer describes the essence of Chuck’s devotion: “The secret to Chuck Morgan’s success is that he loves baseball, ballparks and the fans who find a special place in their hearts for the greatest game ever played.

“Whether it is to the little kid who is seeing their first Major League game or the wizened veteran keeping score for his thousandth game, Chuck wants them to have a memorable, fun time.

When you hear Chuck’s distinctive voice at the game you feel like you have been welcomed home. You know that the smile in his voice comes from the joy in his heart for a game he truly loves.”

Adrian Beltre is destined to join Nolan Ryan and Pudge Rodriguez as a first-ballot entrant into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. For eight years, Rangers fans got to see the performance of a player who, Lest anyone wonder about the allure of The Great Game, as described by MLB columnist check out the intensity on the faces of these fans, both young Richard Justice, “Checked every box and old, who attempted to get autographs during the Rangers as a player, teammate, winner and Hall of Fame induction game. personality.

“He was such a complete player that the numbers blur at times. He was a five-time Rawlings Gold Glover winner, a four-time All-Star and collector of MVP votes in his seasons with the Rangers. In that way, he became one of the faces of an entire franchise as the Rangers made the playoffs five times.”

In Adrian’s words, “I try to lead by example. Play the game the right way and something good will come out of it. I want to be a role model.”

He was and is. The image here of the youngsters and a couple of not-so-youngsters seeking his autograph is strong evidence that baseball’s legacy has already entered the next generation.

And it all plays out in Arlington, Texas.

Richard Greene served as mayor of Arlington from 1987-1997 and was inducted into the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame in 2019.

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