West FW March 2015

West FW

WestFWLifestyle.com

MARCH 2015

L

I

F

E

S

T

Y

L

E

™

The best Takes you

TURN YOUR DREAM HOME INTO REALITY FOUR GENERATIONS OF MAKING FORT WORTH GREEN RIDE & DINE: FORT WORTH FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL’S NEW EVENT

© 2014 General Motors. All rights reserved. Cadillac® Escalade.®

LIFE TASTE S BE ST WHEN IT’S

W E L L DON E .

Finely stitched, premium-leather seats available Power, fold-flat third-row seats 12" reconfigurable, full-color gauge cluster cadillac.com/2015-Escalade

Special Savings On Our Extensive Selection Of Special Event Vehicles Driven By The Pro Golfers At The Byron Nelson & Colonial Golf Events.

Luxury Has Its Privileges

Jerry's Cadillac A lifetime of exceptional customer service that guarantees an outstanding ownership experience.

Come out and see for yourself what makes Jerry's the best Cadillac dealer.

Jerry's Cadillac, 3130 Fort Worth Highway, Weatherford, Texas, 76087 1.800.574.6898 817.597.1280 jerryscadillac.com

Publisher’s Letter

MARCH 2015 publishers

Christie & Mike Thomas | CThomas@lifestylepubs.com 817-290-2120

editor

Christie Thomas | CThomas@lifestylepubs.com advertising sales Ashley Sanchez, Felicia Brantley

contributing writers Juliet George, Martha Helton, Doug Matus, Matthew Smith

contributing photographers Ann Beck, Nancy Farrar, Kat Swift, Brittany Jenson

Published monthly, subscriptions are: 1 year for $22 or 2 years for $39.

Visit WestFWLifestyle.com

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry

Welcome, Miss Laramie Ray.

chief financial officer | DeLand Shore regional sales director | Michael Arel production director | Christina Sandberg director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor

This being the “Home” edition of our magazine, we couldn’t think of a more appropriate way to introduce the newest member of the WestFW Lifestyle family: Miss Laramie Ray. She was welcomed by our CEN (Chief Executive Noodle) Miss Brileigh Ray at 4:59 a.m. January 9th, 2015. We are very thankful to our daughter, Hannah, and son-in-law, Seth, for giving us this amazing blessing of a new grand girl.

ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Samantha Engel copy editor | Kendra Mathewson executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell it director | Randy Aufderheide

Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged; parents are the pride of their children.

Proverbs 17:6

by Community ™

Christie Thomas, Publisher

| WestFWLifestyle.com | ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANN BECK

4

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

join us

talk to us

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 West FW Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of West Fort Worth’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in West FW Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

3920 Inwood Road, 76109 $774,000

3709 Autumn Drive, 76109 $724,900

Alden Karotkin 817.319.1325

Alden Karotkin 817.319.1325 4722 Dexter Avenue, 76107 $525,000

6600 Augusta Road, 76132 $445,000

Renee Eiband 817.946.3414

Katie Roberts 817.680.9109 320 Ridgewood Road, 76107 PENDING

Ann Nayfa 817.368.4391

6217 Curzon Avenue, 76116 SOLD

Alden Karotkin 817.319.1325 2317 Medford Ct. E., 76109 SOLD (BUYER)

Kelly Jordan 817.271.0413

5517 Byers Avenue, 76107 SOLD (BUYER)

Debra Barrett 817.903.1112

2900 South Hulen, Suite #10, Fort Worth, Texas 76109 | 817.665.1222 phone | 817.665.1223 fax | virginiacook.com |

March 2015

Departments

24

18 Your Dream Realized

8

Around Town

10

Healthy Lifestyle

12

Now Open

14

Locally Owned

16

Your Neighbor

24

Hot Spot

26

History 101

28

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

AG Builders helps their clients bring their dream homes to reality.

20 Archie’s Gardenland: Making Fort Worth

Greener for Four Generations

Decades of one family’s contributions created deep roots and

a broad canopy for our town.

24 Rise & Dine

14

A new celebration of your favorite meal at Fort Worth’s Food & Wine Fest.

18

20 Lifestyle Publications

Texas | Colorado | California | Arizona | Missouri | Kansas | Georgia | Indiana | Illinois | Oklahoma | Massachusetts

At we love what we do, and it shows!

We have made some exciting changes at Fort Worth Cosmetic & Family Dentistry! This summer, Dr. Nikki Green welcomed Dr. Ryan Knight as her partner and full-time colleague. We are proud to be a Comprehensive Dental Practice, where we combine the passion and talents of our Doctors in into a full-service dental team. With our expanded team of Doctors, we are better able to provide beautiful smiles and restored oral health for more patients in the Greater Fort Worth area!

Fort Worth Cosmetic & Family Dentistry is YOUR West Fort Worth Center for: COSMETIC DENTISTRY • Small changes to your smile can give you a brighter, healthier, more youthful appearance.

• Smile Makeovers are created every day to significantly change the appearance of broken, discolored, or worn teeth.

DENTAL IMPLANTS • Placed and restored in our office using the latest in radiographic and implant technology.

• The solution for tooth replacement, whether a single tooth or multiple missing teeth.

SEDATION DENTISTRY • Conscious sedation for the fearful patient or the patient who justs wants to have several dental visits completed at one time.

• IV sedation for surgical procedures including implants, wisdom teeth, and gingival surgery.

At Fort Worth Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, the possibilities for your smile are limitless!

Nikki P Green, DDS • Ryan A. Knight, DMD • Robert W. Leedy, DDS • Cindy M. Knight, DDS

5720 Locke Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76107

www.ngreendental.com

Around Town

THE WEST SIDER’S DRIVER Ed Wilkens prides himself on providing both mainstream and niche services at the highest level. His specialty is exceeding expectations while delivering one of the best value-based services in the industry.

Whether you need airport transportation or just around town, Wilkens Transportation service team is ready to serve. From the moment they arrive at your location, they are at your disposal. Call Ed Wilkens Transpotation Services at 817.888.0078.

CASA OF TARRANT COUNTY’S 21ST ANNUAL JUDGE SCOTT WHITE AWARDS DINNER CASA of Tarrant County believes every child deserves a clear voice, a safe home and a bright future, regardless of their life circumstances. The 21st Annual Judge Scott Moore Awards Dinner will recognize dedicated volunteers, community leaders and professionals who fight for abused and neglected children, ensuring their future will be better than their past. The event will showcase inspiring stories of children whose lives have been changed by the dedication of CASA volunteers- regular people who are making a remarkable impact.

In 2014, more than 350 CASA volunteers joined us by serving as friends of the court, speaking up for children, raising their voices against the unspeakable.

Together they served 874 children and changed many more lives. In attending the event, you directly support abused and neglected children.

8

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

The 21st Annual Judge Scott Moore Awards Dinner is Tuesday, April 7 at 6 p.m., Fort Worth Convention Center. Sponsorships available. Individual tickets $100.

SpeakUpForAChild.org

CELEBRATE FORT WORTH! Join the party March 4th at River Ranch (in the Fort Worth Stockyards) 500 NE 23rd Street. A celebration of the special events Industry will provide opportunities to meet top caterers and event companies, DJ’s, entertainment, production, lighting and décor companies. There will be food, décor and entertainment. Preregister at CelebratedFW.com.

four-day Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival honoring the distinctive nature of Fort Worth cooking, food, beverage and culinary traditions infusing historic venues and homegrown flavor with celebrated local chefs, culinary professionals and wine makers. The focus: PROMOTE: To bring national and regional attention to the Fort Worth food scene and to assist in sustaining chefs, restaurants, and the local ranching and farming community.

GIVE BACK: To raise funds for local grant programs and culinary scholarships.

EDUCATE: To elevate the skills and culinary knowledge of the general consumer and to provide internship experiences for those interested in pursuing a career in public relations or marketing.

FortWorthFoodAndWineFestival.com

FORT WORTH RETAIL SPEED LEARNING EVENT Own a small business or thinking of starting your own entrepreneurial endeavor? Don’t miss this opportunity to meet, up close and personal, some of the community’s most generous local business experts.

Our speed learning event is just like speed dating without the pressure.

Guests are rotated every 8-10 minutes to meet each participating expert. A bell will ring to signal the rotation. At the end of the event we’ll facilitate an exchange of contact information to the speakers you choose for follow up. No pressure to buy or sell, just a fun way to gain knowledge and promote growth.

SAVVY CONTENT, SPEEDY DELIVERY

ST PATRICK’S DAY AT MICHAEL’S CUISINE Come celebrate St Patrick’s Day with “The World’s Best” Corned Beef and Cabbage. They will be celebrating with green beer, Irish Nachos with all wines half price.

Happy Hour 3 – 7 p.m. Serving Food All Day. 3413 W. 7th Street Fort Worth, 76107

FORT WORTH FOOD + WINE FESTIVAL Tickets are now on sale now for the

Advertising, Branding, Business Attorney, Merchant Account Services, Social Media, Marketing, Web Support, Commercial Construction, Business Insurance and Banking are the hot topics for this round of Fort Worth Retail’s educational series.

Come mix and mingle with other business owners and introduce yourself and your business to a supportive community of peers: March 4, 2015. $25 per person, space limited. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Colonial Country Club. For details FortWorthRetail.org.

DR

MAKING YOUR

flooring

dreams COME TRUE SINCE 1997

Hours of Operation: Monday-Thursday: 9am - 6pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Saturday: 12pm - 5pm

6455 Granbury Road | Fort Worth, TX 76133 | 817.263.0332

DON’T SPEND YOUR

SPRING BREAK HIDING

FROM THE SUN! Get Bronzed & Ready for the Beach at Bronze Envy Tan

Come see our state of the art beds and the only Pura Spray Tan booth in Fort Worth. We are locally owned and operated, and competetively priced.

MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE

20% OFF ALL PACKAGES* *Terms and Conditions apply.

3000 S. Hulen, Suite 113 bronzeenvytan.com · 817-763-8707

28 Day Total Body Transformation

$97

Indoor boot camp, options for everyone

Includes unlimited group training, nutritional support and so much more!

Find us on Facebook!

Fort Worth Fit Body Bootcamp

SPRING AHEAD WITH A BRAND NEW BODY 6481B Southwest Blvd. Fort Worth 76132 | fbbcfw.com | 682-704-9698 | Toni@fbbcfw.com March 2015 | West FW Lifestyle

9

Healthy Lifestyle

A Plan for Recovery

CHRISTIE’S PILATES GOALS CHANGE AFTER SHE RECEIVES A TROUBLESOME DIAGNOSIS ARTICLE DOUGLAS MATUS | PHOTOGRAPHY KAT SWIFT

M

any people pursue exercise regimens and health plans to improve their mental and physical wellbeing. As we’ve seen in previous installments of this series, Pilates not only serves to improve core-strength and tone the body, it also strengthens the mind-body connection to promote a more balanced way of life.

Christie Thomas began her partnership with Sarah Cornett of the Pilates Concept as an effort to improve fitness and correct certain ingrained lifestyle habits. In late-December, however, Christie received some news that would throw anyone’s life — much less their exercise regimen — into a tumult: a diagnosis of Stage 2 Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma. This month we checked in to see how pilates has helped Christie deal with the diagnosis. We’ll also learn how Sarah has adapted Christie’s program to help prepare her for surgery and recovery.

In terms of both goals and practice, how has the Pilates program evolved since the diagnosis?

CHRISTIE: The first couple of weeks after the diagnosis were a haze, and things slowed down quite a bit in regards to pilates. I actually took a couple of weeks off, so when I started up again, it was almost like beginning from scratch.

SARAH: We had to reprogram what Christie’s goals would be.

Instead of a program focused on general fitness, we had to shift our focus to surgery preparation, and then envision what her recovery process would look like. We needed to emphasize the area of the body that would undergo the surgery. The benefits come in the recovery process, as the operated area is stronger afterwards than it otherwise would have been. When prepping for surgery, it’s also important to continue to work on cardio and eat clean meals.

How has Christie’s relationship to the program evolved? Does it feel more or less vital in light of such weighty news?

10

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

CHRISTIE: Physically, it was somewhat difficult getting back into the practice after the diagnosis. Anemia is a side effect of what I’m dealing with, and it began to take its toll. Since I’ve been more tired than normal, the program was a struggle at first. I worked at it, though, and it’s become the best part of my day. I feel that my strength and energy level continue to improve with every session.

SARAH: It’s been good for her, for sure. Before the diagnosis, we were able to establish a strong foundation with the basic movements of pilates, and now she’s able to develop her strength.

Christie has learned how to fire and relax certain muscles, which becomes important for the pelvic-floor work we’ve done to get her body ready for surgery. It’s not uncommon for clients to fall into a funk when they’re prepping for surgery, but it seems like Christie’s practice has helped lift her out of the worst of it.

What specific changes have gone into the program, and what kind of pay-off have you seen?

CHRISTIE: When I told Sarah about the diagnosis and scheduled surgery, she went right into action and began to research what could help me both before and afterwards. It hasn’t been easy, and we’ve worked through some tears, but she’s made sure that I will be the world’s best patient. Sarah’s become a true blessing in my life, and I can say with all honesty that, thanks to my faith and pilates, I feel amazing!

SARAH: We’ve begun to focus more on abdominal and spinal work to strengthen the surgery’s targeted area. Patients who go through this procedure will have difficulty rising from a seated position or getting out of bed, so we’ll also work on her leg and arm strength. Thanks to Christie’s preparation, her recovery should be significantly easier than what most people could expect.

Ties 2 The Past AnTique MAll 817.244.3134

GROCERIES DELIVERED

Straight to Your Door!

Too busy for grocery shopping? Hate going?

Send us your list and let us do the work for you!

Visit us the 1st Saturday of every month to get

20% Off Storewide Hours

Mon - Sat 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Sunday noon - 6:00 p.m.

817-266-9146 BringMeGroceriesTx.com

6901 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76116

Bringing Entertainment to Homes Since 1952

Quality Game Room Furnishings

2312 Montgomery Street Ft. Worth, Texas 76107

(817) 377-1004 dfwbilliards.com March 2015 | West FW Lifestyle

11

Now Open

Bronzed and Ready LOCAL COUPLE APPLIES THEIR BUSINESS EXPERTISE TO A STATE-OF-THE-ART VENTURE ARTICLE DOUGLAS MATUS | PHOTOGRAPHY KAT SWIFT

A

s anyone who has lived in Fort Worth can tell you, Cowtown is a city that values its homegrown businesses. The roots of this fierce sense of local pride exist perhaps in tribute to the city’s development around its signature cattle industry; or maybe it’s the loyalty to a sense of individualism that has preserved Fort Worth’s character in comparison to its Metroplex neighbor. Regardless, Fort Worth stands as a tightly-knit community where errands are an opportunity to support neighbors’ businesses. Nicole Morrison and her husband, Jordan Scott, embody Fort Worth’s homegrown sense of can-do entrepreneurship. As the owner of Mama’s Pizza, Jordan revitalized an iconic Fort Worth business and lifted it to new heights. Nicole’s venture, Bronze Envy Tan, gives Fort Worth residents a cutting-edge tanning salon that emphasizes cleanliness, comfort and convenience.

Expertise and commitment alone cannot make a successful business. In order for a business to stand apart, its owner must have a genuine passion for the field. For Nicole, her desire to open Fort Worth’s premier independent tanning salon stemmed from fond memories of her college days. As a business major at Angelo State University, Nicole worked as the manager of a tanning salon. Her experience in the industry, along with the pleasure of working with clients, inspired her to file away the notion of owning her own business one day. Nicole later embarked on a successful career in commercial real estate, and it wasn’t until a chance encounter over pizza that her vision of business ownership came closer to fruition.

“I was at the rodeo and had gotten hungry,” remembers Nicole.

“Jordan was there serving Mama’s Pizza, and we got to talking. We went out that night and have been together ever since.”

The fledgling couple soon found that their paths had almost crossed elsewhere. Both Jordan and Nicole frequented Planet Beach, a TCU-area tanning salon that remained open for over 15 years. Inspired partly by Jordan’s success in the restaurant industry, Nicole shared with him her own business vision.

12

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

“One of the things I love about Jordan is that he’s a go-getter,” says Nicole. “He has grown a successful business.”

When Planet Beach closed, Nicole sensed an opportunity. The location at 3000 S. Hulen sits within a busy shopping district. Nicole felt it was perfect for the type of tanning salon she wanted to open: a come-and-go location, where patrons can make the most of beds configured for shorter tanning times. Jordan’s experience proved valuable with the navigation of the legal requirements for a new business, along with the regulations enforced for tanning salons.

Nicole’s work ethic and industry experience allowed the couple to make the necessary choices to create a top-tier salon from day one.

“We went in and ripped out the floors, then brought in brandnew equipment,” says Nicole. “We knew that cleanliness and new technology would be our emphasis, so we focused on that from the beginning.”

Today, Bronze Envy Tan offers an experience unlike anything else available in Fort Worth. The salon’s premier bed, the Angel, mitigates some of the health risks associated with tanning through its employment of innovative sensor-based technology. The bed takes a reading of the darkest and lightest parts of the body, then adjusts UV exposure. Patrons who prefer the convenience of a spray tan also get the benefit of state-of-theart equipment. Bronze Envy Tan’s spray tanner, the only one of its kind in Fort Worth, offers a remarkably natural tan. It’s also an open-air unit, which means that patrons averse to enclosed spaces can use it without anxiety.

Thought it hasn’t been open for long, Bronze Envy Tan has already upped the ante for other tanning salons, and stands head-andshoulders above its chain competitors.

“When you come to Bronze Envy Tan,” says Nicole, “you can count on personal attention. One thing we love about Fort Worth is how supportive people are of local businesses, and we’re proud to be a part of that.”

Locally Owned

Security Made Simple

ROLLOK ROLLING DOORS CAN SECURE A HOME INSIDE AND OUT ARTICLE DOUGLAS MATUS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

W

e all have things we want protected, from our children to our homes, our collectibles and our businesses. For 26 years, Arlington’s Rollok Rolling Doors have delivered security solutions to clients around North Texas, the United States and the world. In terms of convenience, durability and cost-effectiveness, nothing can beat the sturdy, custom aluminum doors madeto-order right here in Texas at Rollok’s headquarters.

“Our door is not your typical door,” says Tim Fogle, general manager. “We can build these to secure any space, large or small, and their compact nature allows them to roll up and out of sight when not in use.”

In addition to security, Rollok’s doors provide noise reduction and energy efficiency. Customers can order automated versions programmed to rise or fall at certain times of the day to cover windows and reduce heating and cooling bills. The only limit to the material uses for this technology is the imagination of the client. Do you like to sleep-in on the weekends? Have Rollok doors installed over your bedroom windows, and program them to lower with the sunrise. Worried about high winds or intense hailstorms? Protect your home with the heavy-duty, aluminum tambour construction of Rollok doors.

Rollok’s story has taken it from humble beginnings in an Arlington garage to large-scale projects with clients like the United States military. The current owner of Rollok Rolling Doors, Haydn Cutler, first came into contact with the company as a customer.

“Mr. Cutler was so impressed with the product,” explains Tim, “that when the company came up for sale, he bought it.”

The company’s initial focus was on the residential market, and the founder of Rollok Rolling Doors expanded his client base as a door-to-door salesman. More recently, Rollok has focused on the business-to-business market, and has worked to secure retail spaces and stores. As for the future, Tim sees a return to Rollok’s roots.

“We’re looking to get back to where we started. Our business market will always be important, but we’ve got a lot to offer homeowners.”

14

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

In addition to security for the exterior, Rollok’s doors also adapt to creative in-home use. Designed for beauty and compactness, the doors can complement a range of interior styles and disappear from sight when not in use. Many clients have requested Rollok doors to secure valuable electronics, or to lock down gun cabinets. Other clients use the doors to secure larger spaces, such as tool sheds or garages.

“One of our clients, a vinyl collector, wanted see-through doors installed over his collection,” says Tim. “That way, his 7,000 records were protected, but he could still see the spine labels. We’ve had clients use our doors to protect their washers and dryers, sports equipment and hobby collections. Really anything you can imagine.”

The key to the versatility of Rollok’s doors comes from their design.

The doors raise and lower easily, and roll up into a six-inch square box. The doors also benefit from a straightforward installation process. The purchaser first installs a pair of rails, similar to those used with garage doors, then slides on the Rollok box.

“Our installation process is as simple as could be,” explains Tim. “Any handyman can do it, and we also have trained installers we can recommend.

If you want to do it yourself, we provide full instructions and technical support.”

Fort Worth residents will soon have the benefit of proximity to Rollok Rolling Doors, as the company is moving into the former Fort Worth Star-Telegram building on Interstate 20. If you’ve ever had a desire for that extra level of home security, you can now custom-order doors from the same company that helped secure the Smithsonian Institution. Even this world-renowned repository for treasured artifacts doesn’t take the cake as Rollok’s most memorable client, however.

“Our most memorable client would have to be Mr. Cutler, actually,” says Tim. “After all, it led to him buying the company.”

Your Neighbor

A Midas Touch

CHRIS PIEKARSKI MERGES STEAK AND ALE INTO BUFFALO WEST WITH NOSTALGIC SUCCESS

C

ARTICLE MARTHA HELTON | PHOTOGRAPHY KAT SWIFT

hris Piekarski undoubtedly has a Midas touch. With a fondness for food and an uncanny ability to visualize a restaurant concept and make it happen, Piekarski, general manager/vice president of Buffalo West, has had a colorful, gratifying 40-year career managing and owning restaurants. That career brought him to Fort Worth to apply his Midas touch to the old Steak and Ale turned Buffalo West restaurant.

He credits his grandmother for his passion for food. “I always had an interest in food because my grandmother used to take me out to dinner all the time, or we’d go travel or what not—always an interest.”

The New Jersey native’s entrepreneurial chops were developed in college where he took over a popular business on campus that sold sub sandwiches in the dorms after hours. He ran it for four years. “The money was unbelievable,” recalls Piekarski. He also was on the school cafeteria board and helped with menu development.

After graduation, he looked at different jobs in Atlanta and while driving around, was drawn to the Tudor style Steak and Ale building, went in and had lunch and was mesmerized by it. “I thought it was the neatest thing ever.”

He talked to the manager, a recruiter the next day and after an interview in Pittsburgh, he secured a job as general manager at just 22 years old. It was a job he enjoyed for ten years.

After his Steak and Ale days, Piekarski went to the East Coast. In between jobs, he took some time off to figure out what he wanted to do and stumbled upon a vacant building for rent in Plymouth, Mass. After visiting with the owners, he whipped out his checkbook and wrote them a $1,000 check to hold it…a seemingly rash, yet providential opportunity.

“This was a spur of the moment deal,” he explains. “Here was a vacant building directly across from Plymouth Rock where all the tourists around 16

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

the world come. Within a week I opened this restaurant. I called it Plymouth Rock Café. It became a very huge success in a short period of time, for almost five years, until the real estate market bottomed out.”

Piekarski always had a love for Dallas and Fort Worth because he used to travel back and forth for meetings. “I remember my very first visit over to Fort Worth--the Stockyards--40 years ago. I was just so intrigued. Fort Worth always had this gleaming opportunity, I thought.”

After some years in Ohio, he made his way to Fort Worth, where his career has come full circle.

“A little over a year and a half ago I looked at an ad on the internet for a hands-on restaurant manager and exchanged my resume back and forth after a phone call,” Piekarski says.

“I pulled up in front of the old Steak and Ale building, met Paul and Mary, the owners, and it was like an instant connection. I can remember walking down the hallway with goose bumps on my arms, looking at all the employees I used to have, even though they weren’t in this building. It was that thick of a feeling. So many memories.”

“Steak and Ale in its time was the quintessential restaurant chain and nobody could touch it,” says Piekarski. “Still to this day there is a strong nostalgic feeling for people to return to the days of Steak and Ale.” Piekarski and crew built on that theme, showcasing the salad bar more prominently and brought back some of the menu items that were similar to Steak and Ale. “One by one things started clicking,” says Piekarski. Under his direction, the restaurant has increasingly prospered.

A return to Steak and Ale/Buffalo West, for Piekarski, is a return to his roots, his restaurant home. It’s a fitting way to retire at some point and exit his career, yet leaving in his wake more evidence of his Midas touch. BuffaloWestFW.com

“

As Fort Worth’s premier financial planning firm, we have a reputation built on personalized service providing confidence and peace of mind for our clients.

”

www.charlesrgreen.com

If you have not attended one of our Educational Dinner Events, be sure and contact our office to reserve your seat! Our next dinner event will be April 7th, 2015. Seating is limited.

1612 Summit Avenue, Suite 350 Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Phone: 817-348-8700 • Fax: 817-348-8705 Toll Free: 877-289-9600

We form respected, collaborative client relationships that go beyond individual transactions and anticipate long-term client needs.

Plan. Build. Protect.

Charles R. Green is a Registered Representative / Investment Adviser Representative (IAR) with First Western Securities, Inc. Securities and advisory services offered through First Western Securities, Inc. -Registered Investment Advisor (RIA)- Member of FINRA / SIPC. First Western Securities, Inc. is located at 669 Airport Fwy, Suite 409, Hurst, TX 76053 (817) 553-1492.

$150 OFF $50 OFF

a front and back landscape design front or back landscape design

This does not include construction design

Serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex since 1984

Custom Landscape Design • Maintenance • Landscape Lighting Outdoor Living • Commercial Landscaping • Irrigation

harvestlandscape.com • 817-236-5296 March 2015 | West FW Lifestyle

17

AG Builders helps clients bring their visions into reality.

ARTICLE DOUGLAS MATUS | PHOTOGRAPHY ANN BECK

M

any people nurture a vision of their dream home, an ideal sanctuary that reflects an individual vision of luxury, comfort and security. For those fortunate enough to construct their own home, however, the dream can quickly dissolve into a nightmare of unforeseen expenses, delays and communication breakdowns. So much goes into the building of a home - issues of real estate, permits and what feels like armies of sub-contractors - it’s easy to understand why many people purchase preexisting residences.

Custom homebuilders exist to take away the stress of project management, and bridge the divide between concept and reality. However, entrusting someone else with one of life’s most important — and significant — investments requires a great deal of faith and trust. Luckily, Fort Worth residents can choose a builder whose track record reflects a commitment to excellence. Since 2007, AG Builders, the company of husband-and-wife team Gary and Lisa Nussbaum, have worked to fill Fort Worth’s neighborhoods with the dream homes of their clients.

Gary and Lisa represent an ideal pairing of complementary talents. Gary, AG Builders’ president and senior construction manager, has worked as a builder since childhood. Lisa, who brings a keen aesthetic sensibility to her role as senior interior designer, started her first design practice in 1982. Together, they work to realize clients’ projects from the foundation to the roof, with attention to every detail inside and out. When you begin a partnership with AG Builders, you can count on your vision becoming a complete reality. It’s rare for builders to work so closely with clients; for AG Builders, it’s just the way they do business.

The story of AG Builders began when Gary and Lisa met — where else? — on a construction site. At the time, Gary worked in a family business and had relocated to North Texas from the Midwest. Lisa, who received her interior design degree from the University of North Texas, had instant chemistry with the quiet, enigmatic homebuilder.

18

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

“All Gary has ever known is building,” says Lisa. “His grandfather and father were builders, and 11 of his cousins went into the business as well. It’s a family of master craftsmen.”

In the 1990s, Gary decided to temporarily leave residential construction to try his hand at the commercial side of the industry. The couple had a son at this point, and Lisa decided to step back from the business to focus on motherhood. As a commercial builder, Gary oversaw the construction of more than 500 restaurants around the United States. Lisa took the opportunity to return to school, where she received a pair of master’s degrees and a PhD. Always ready for a new challenge, Lisa utilized her education in the opening of her own counseling practice. In 2007, Gary decided to return to residential construction and partnered with his wife for the formation of AG Builders. The culmination of more than 25 years of experience across all levels of the construction industry, AG Builders welds Gary’s brilliant sense of craftsmanship with Lisa’s intuitive sense of design.

Unlike many builders, Gary attends to all aspects of the project. Rather than merely oversee the work of sub-contractors, Gary places himself in the trenches. It’s not uncommon to see him with his sleeves rolled up, wielding a shovel or laying floors, constructing frames or building cabinetry. How can one person manage so much? Simple: regardless of the scope of a project, AG Builders maintains an intense area of focus.

“We’re a small operation, a true boutique builder,” says Gary. “We practice a hands-on, old-school approach on every level. When it comes to clients, we’re not concerned with volume. Our only concern is service.”

This dedication to clients extends beyond the process of interpretation that yields blueprints and, eventually, a finished home. It also involves anticipating clients’ needs. For this aspect of the business, the Nussbaums rely on Lisa’s experience in psychology.

“We ask ourselves, how are these clients going to spend their time in the home?” says Lisa. “We want our houses to grow with the needs of the people living in them.”

This attention to key details may escape the notice of the casual observer, but clients are sure to recognize its value in the long run. For example, if clients are interested in a “forever” home, AG Builders takes care to widen the hallways, a feature that makes sense as occupants age.

“We try to think ahead for people and help those who might have difficulty expressing their vision,” explains Gary. “Lisa’s great at helping people voice their ideas.”

Of course, home construction is a partnership between a

slew of parties, and the Nussbaums strive to create an environment of open communication.

“When we work on a house,” says Gary, “we’re able to answer detailed questions on every aspect of the construction, from the dirt to the door locks. We don’t need to refer to someone else for answers.”

As a working builder, Gary takes many of the wrinkles out of construction through his presence alone. Lisa speaks admiringly of his dedication.

“He’s always on the job site. It’s uncommon to see the builder show up with a shovel and help dig out the basement, but that’s what Gary does. He has a lot of empathy for the sub-contractors, but isn’t afraid to push them to give the clients more.”

As Fort Worth continues to grow, AG Builders will remain on the forefront of innovative home construction. Whether it’s their commitment to energy efficiency and green construction, or the personal warmth that turns client relationships into friendships, Gary, Lisa and their project manager, Michael Sowards stand as a model for excellence in construction. Gary sums up what his company is all about with a description of their design process.

“We want to know how our clients live, what they like, and what they want. Once we know how they live, we can help create a vision for their future. It’s just like a marriage — all about trust.”

Making Fort Worth Greener for Four Generations

Deep Roots and a Broad Canopy

20

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

ARTICLE DOUGLAS MATUS PHOTOGRAPHY ANN BECK

F

ew Fort Worth businesses have roots — both literal and figurative — to compare to those of Archie’s Gardenland. This family-owned-and-operated company has not only witnessed the growth and maturity of its home city; it has also served as a valuable contributor to Fort Worth’s identity, with over eight decades of service on the city’s topography and natural spaces.

As the fourth generation inheritor of the Archie’s Gardenland legacy, Randall Archie continues to expand and adapt his business to meet the needs of its clientele.

Randall also strives to give back to the community that has nurtured his family business for so long. In addition to its expansive sales space and broad range of services, Archie’s Gardenland supports the community in a more visceral way: through its sponsorship of the Tarrant Area Food Bank and the Learning Garden at Ridglea Christian Church.

The Archie’s Gardenland story began in 1934, when Randall’s great-grandfather, N.E. Archie Sr., started one of the first landscaping businesses in North Texas. The company’s focus in the early years was on the planting and care of large trees, a business that suited the burgeoning community of Fort Worth. The proof of his endeavors persists to this day.

“The initial focus was on large trees as the backbones of the Fort Worth landscape. Fort Worth is very fortunate to be almost an urban forest,” explains Randall. “It blows me away to know that a lot of the trees I drive past on my way to work were planted by my great-grandfather.”

N.E. Archie Sr.’s success with arboreal stewardship enabled him to open the first Archie’s Gardenland at 4900 Camp Bowie Boulevard.

The current location, situated at 6700 Camp Bowie, opened in 1952 in what was then open pasture. In the decades since, the barbed wire fences and cattle have been replaced with homes and businesses, yet Archie’s Gardenland still delivers the same high-quality service and attention to detail encouraged under the stewardship of its founder.

“We’ve been fortunate to have a loyal customer base over the years,” says Randall. “On top of that, Fort Worth has always been a growing market with a huge focus on outdoor living. People in Fort Worth invest back in the land.”

Under Randall’s guidance, Archie’s Gardenland has grown to accommodate the needs and desires of its discerning clientele. A total of 14 greenhouses and an indoor/outdoor retail space contain a stunning array of plant material and home design elements.

“Our focus now is definitely on the garden center,” says Randall.

“Customers come in and pick out the plants they want, and we educate them on care and maintenance. Of course, we will also come to your house and plant anything that we sell.”

This emphasis on a hands-on approach appeals to customers who want to take ownership of their outdoor space. While Archie’s

Gardenland still offers tree maintenance, the company has retired its general lawn-care services in order to develop a new focus on inhouse education and workshops. One recent workshop offered for children focused on the construction and care of “faerie gardens,” miniature gardens to teach kids the essentials of plant-care.

“We love to get families involved with plants,” says Randall. “The faerie garden seminar offered free containers and soil, and we wound up hosting over 100 participants.”

Archie’s Gardenland’s commitment to education even extends to free video tutorials available on YouTube.

“Some customers get intimidated by the scope of garden centers,” says Randall of the online offerings. “We want to take advantage of any avenue to answer people’s questions.

The wild thing about the outdoors, especially in North Texas, is that there are so many variables. A big part of our success depends on the knowledge of our staff, some of whom have been here for 20 years. We want to share this knowledge with the community.”

All of this knowledge and expertise also extends to the latest gardening trends. Randall and his wife visit garden centers around the country to ensure that Fort Worth has the latest and greatest in design elements and plant life.

“It’s become a big thing for people to grow their own produce,” says Randall, “but you have to know what works for this area.”

Many homeowners appreciate the novelty of growing fruit in their yards. Randall has a few suggestions as to what works best in Fort Worth: “I really like peach trees here, specifically Red Haven or Ranger peaches. Fig trees also work well, as do strawberries.”

Archie’s Gardenland also offers a large variety of starter vegetables and herbs, and a full selection of essentials like vitamins and fertilizer. Customers who want to get in on the succulent craze can choose from a dizzying array of the hardy plants, or pick out an arrangement.

CONTINUED >

DEEP ROOTS

(CONTINUED)

In addition to supporting one of Fort Worth’s most longstanding local businesses, customers here also support Archie’s Gardenland’s expansive philanthropic endeavors.

The Learning Garden at Ridglea Christian Church, which Archie’s Gardenland both supplies and cares for, is used as a model for other community gardens. The garden enables the food pantry to offer fresh produce to needy citizens, along with the standard canned and boxed fare.

“The food bank uses the garden to show people around the community how to grow produce for the food pantry,” says Randall. “This was our first year to have a good harvest. We pulled hundreds of pounds of produce that we sent to the Tarrant Area Food Bank.”

Whether you want to learn how to help with this noble initiative, or just want to browse an unparalleled selection of plants and plant accessories, Archie’s Gardenland is well worth a trip. Few businesses better embody the mutually beneficial relationships that local companies foster in their communities. When it comes to helping the city that has supported his company for generations, Randall is ready to give back.

“We’ve already seen the impact that community involvement has had with the Learning Garden. It’s a new passion for us.”

HIGH QUALITY GROCERIES DELIVERED TO YOUR DOORSTEP www.roypopegrocery.com | 2300 Merrick, Fort Worth 76107 | 817-732-2863

Now Also Delivering to Montserrat & La Canterra

22

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

Our family is here to treat yours.

Now open in East Parker County.

Texas Health Outpatient Center Willow Park is now open, providing you with emergency care, medical specialists, physical therapy, advanced imaging, a fitness center and more. It’s the quality care, experience and commitment you expect from Texas Health Resources, close to home.

817-757-1500 | TexasHealth.org/Willow-Park

Doctors on the medical staff practice independently and are not employees or agents of the center. Š 2015

Hot Spot

A Celebration of Your New Favorite Meal THE FORT WORTH FOOD FESTIVAL’S RISE + DINE BRUNCH EVENT SHOWCASES THE BEST THAT THE CITY HAS TO OFFER ARTICLE DOUGLAS MATUS | PHOTOGRAPHY NANCY FARRAR

F

ort Worth’s gourmands, epicureans and oenophiles should all have their calendars marked for March 26th through the 29th, as the Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival returns for its second year. In addition to all the events that made last year so memorable — such as the Burgers, Brews & Blues, BBQ at Billy Bob’s and, of course, the Grand Tasting — organizers this year decided to create a special treat to emphasize the glorious ritual of weekend brunch. The Rise + Dine event, which takes place Saturday between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Worthington Renaissance Hotel, brings together an all-star cast of Fort Worth’s finest chefs to deliver tasty and original takes on brunch food and cocktails.

M ike Micallef, festival co-founder and president of the Reata, describes the overall genesis of the food festival.

“It was the brainchild of Russell Kirkpatrick, who is the Reata’s general manager,” he says. “We decided, ‘Hey, Fort Worth has as much cooking talent as any other large city, so why not showcase what makes us unique with our own festival?’”

The success of last year’s festival came as a pleasant surprise for festival organizers. The kick-off event, held at Billy Bob’s, attracted 900 attendees. The main event, the Grand Tasting, had 25 chefs and an equal number of winemakers. The Sip and Savor event, held on two consecutive days, served as partial inspiration for the new Rise + Dine.

“More and more places are beginning to offer brunch,” says Micallef.

“It’s become an opportunity for chefs to try out new and inspiring things with food. It’s also an

24

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

opportunity to show off Fort Worth.

Last year we had attendees from 14 different states who were able to experience our finest restaurants.”

Attendees at the Rise + Dine will find plenty of inspiration among the numerous small plates and drinks available at the chef-driven event. Local bakeries Pearl Snap Kolaches and Black Rooster Bakery will ensure the availability of delicious pastries, while an assortment of chefs will offer original takes on everything from eggs Benedict to breakfast tacos. Chef Stefon Rishel of Max’s Wine Dive plans to offer a house-made boudin with a sunny-side up Vital Farms egg, Dijon mustard and yellow curry Sriracha ketchup. Chef Deb Cantrell of Savor Culinary Services, a local caterer, will prepare samples of her gluten-free sweet potato bacon biscuits, served with cinnamon honey butter and bacon candy. Chef Blaine Staniford, the mastermind behind Little Red Wasp, will treat attendees to his green eggs & ham, a poached farm egg served on a celery root puree with creme fraiche, pesto and pork belly

ham. Other participants include Lanny Lancarte of Righteous Foods, Salsa Limon, Velvet Taco, Campisi’s, the Flying Carpet Turkish Cafe, Los Vaqueros, and many others. If you want your morning caffeine fix, never fear — Avoca Coffee will also be in attendance.

Of course, it wouldn’t be brunch without a selection of eye-openers. Attendees can enjoy a Bloody Mary bar, along with signature cocktails, mimosas, and a selection of craft beers and specialty wines.

In addition to a feast for the gullet, attendees can also expect a feast of the senses. The arrival at the Worthington will reveal a huge presentation of the various chefs and additional participants. All portions will be served as sample-sizes, in order to allow for the greatest variety of tastes and f lavors.

As attendees wander from table to table, they can meet chefs, mingle, and socialize amidst a brunch cornucopia. Those who miss the shopping opportunities from last year’s Sip and Savor need merely venture down to Sundance Square, where many of the same vendors will have their assortment of wares readily available.

ARCHIE’S GARDENLAND

Enjoy Discount!

EnjoyaaNeighbor Neighbor Discount!

$10 OFF $10 any purchase ofOFF $50 or more any purchase $50 or more expiresof 10-15-14 expires 3-31-15

Fall

ts

even

Halloween Fairy Garden Workshop - Oct. 4th Scarecrow Day - Oct. 18th Bring the family by from 10-12 and create a super cute & spooky Halloween themed miniature garden. Great for all ages!

Get creative and build a scarecrow for your Fall Garden.

Bring an old shirt & pants, and we will take care of the rest from 10-2!

6700 Z Boaz Place Fort Worth, Texas 76116 www.ArchiesGardenland.com March 2015 | West FW Lifestyle

6700 Z Boaz Place Fort Worth, Texas 76116 www.ArchiesGardenland.com

25

History 101

Stripling offered to finance improvement of the grounds when the building opened a few weeks ago, saying that it would give him the greatest of pleasure to pay the bills of the school improvement if it were made the most beautiful high school campus in Texas.

-from the Fort Worth Record-Telegram, Friday, June 17, 1927

Landscaping a Namesake ARTICLE JUILET GEORGE

A

Just six years after the merchant’s gift, the New Deal came to department store king’s engraved name crowned a new public 2100 Clover Lane. The Civil Works high school for the burgeoning ArAdministration, Federal Emergency lington Heights neighborhood in 1927. In Relief Administration, and Texas ReJune of that year, Wesley Capers Stripling lief Administration transformed the approached the Fort Worth board of edgrounds of Stripling and several other ucation with a proposal to fund the landlocal schools. Historian Susan Allen scaping of W.C. Stripling High School’s Kline noted that the crews built retainrectangle of former prairie land. ing walls around the practice football Architect Wiley G. Clarkson envifield and track in 1933-34. Designs by sioned an elegant and park-like camHare & Hare of Kansas City, Missouri, pus for the school he had designed. As guided their landscape work. reported in the June 17 issue of the ReThe school’s landscape would cord-Telegram, “the school grounds, locatchange again and again over the years. ed on a natural terrace, would be terraced Stripling became a junior high school further toward the west for a distance of after students moved into the new 60 feet. An athletic field would occupy a Arlington Heights High School on 300-foot portion toward the south. The West Rosedale building in the spring court, containing grass plots surroundof 1938. Since ____, it has been a mided by suitable walks, would be placed dle school. Walking around and across immediately in front of the building. To Images from the 1933 (left) and 1937 Yellow Jacket the green spaces of Stripling, one can make the oval in front of the building, yearbooks courtesy of the Billy W. Sills Center for imagine earlier generations congregatthe street [Clover Lane] would have to Archives, Fort Worth Independent School District. ing underneath the flagpole, roaming be widened at that point. It would be designed as a turning place for cars and a distinctive decorative feature.” around on the front lawn, looking up at the inscriptions. Different trees and shrubs grow there now.

Some, but not all, of the plans were carried out.

Surprise your loved one with a gift certificate from Metropolitan Day Spa. Choose from one of our spa packages or tailor your own spa day!

METROPOLITAN DAY SPA OF FORT WORTH

takes pride in bringing you an invigorating spa experience to help you restore the balance and energy of your mind, body and soul. our services include various facials , massages , manicures

& pedicures , tinting , waxing and laser treatments .

Mention this ad in West FW Lifestyle, Receive

10% off any

3417 W. 7TH STREET, FORT WORTH, TEXAS 76107 P H : 8 1 7. 8 7 7. 3 4 1 7 | W W W. M E T R O P O L I TA N DAYS PA .CO M

Spa Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am to 8:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 6:00pm

single service 26

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

Closed on Sunday

f Like us on Facebook to hear about upcoming specials!

Foreign Auto Specialists PREMIUM Land Rover and BMW Service & Support • Expert Repairs - Mechanical, Interior, & More • Maintenance - Oil Changes, Filters, Service Plans • Better than Dealer Pricing • Sales & Consignments

Landrover

BMW

www.cowtownrover.com

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

3958 W Vickery Blvd • Fort Worth, TX • (817) 731-3223

Relax this Spring with DR. GARDNER and his friendly, well-trained staff focus on patient-client satisfaction. All initial consultations are free of charge to ensure that Z-Spa provides the best treatment program to fit each unique, individual need.

Get 10% OFF a purchase with this ad!

Z-SPA IS A LUXURIOUS MEDICAL SPA IN THE HEART OF WEST FORT WORTH.

BioTE Bio-identical Hormone Replacement • Zerona® • Botox • Juvederm

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT 817.509.4967

Microdermabrasion • Massage Therapy • Microneedling Treatments

6789 Camp Bowie Blvd. • Fort Worth, TX 76116

Z-Spa developed a variety of different treatment options to assist you in becoming a better you, including:

Laser Hair Removal • Spray Tan • Skin Tightening

zspadfw.com March 2015 | West FW Lifestyle

27

Lifestyle Calendar

March

MARCH 4

CENTERSTAGE AT BASS HALL FORT WORTH FOOD + WINE FESTIVAL

Only 192 seats are available for this dinner of a lifetime. Celebrity chefs Dean Fearing and Jon Bonnell collaborate to prepare an unforgettable culinary journey, as each course is matched with a rare wine carefully chosen to complement the cuisine and region of its origin. Starting with caviar and champagne and continuing with sublime cuisine and prized wines, the unparalleled experience pairs the ultimate in gastronomy with fine arts performances. Tickets available at FWFWF.com.

MARCH 5 - 7 FORT WORTH SHOW OF ANTIQUES & ART WILL ROGERS MEMORIAL CENTER

The Fort Worth Show features 150 top exhibitors from across the nation with antiques, art and vintage furniture, fashion, jewelry and great design in lighting, rugs, textiles, repurposed industrial, folk art, boots, accessories, silver, tribal and more. Founded in 1963 and known throughout the US, the Fort Worth Show is the original antique & art show in the American West, only three days per year, only in Fort Worth! 3400 Burnett-Tandy.

MARCH 6 FIRST FRIDAY AT THE MODERN THE MODERN ART MUSEUM

The first Friday of each month, the Star-Telegram, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, and Café Modern team up to bring you live music and cocktails from 5 to 8 pm. Bring your friends to enjoy diverse live performances, cocktail selections, and the opportunity to dine in Café Modern by night. 3200 Darnell St.

MARCH 9 - 13 NIGHT AT THE ART MUSEUM VAN GROW: ART STUDIO FOR KIDS

Artists and paintings will come alive! Exciting artists for each session!

Drawing, painting, collage and clay activites. Come for one session or come all week, register at VanGrowStudio.com. 3434 West 7th St.

MARCH 12

MARCH 26 BBQ AT BILLY BOB’S FORT WORTH FOOD + WINE FESTIVAL

What better way to kick-off the 2015 FWFWF than with Texas’ most iconic food — and at the World’s Largest Honky-Tonk? A dozen of amazing pitmasters in the state come together to celebrate the festival launch and share their smoked treasures with guests. Enjoy barbecue from around North Texas and the famed Hill Country, too. Be sure to wear your favorite boots for dancing. Tickets available at FWFWF.com .

MARCH 27 GRAND TASTING AT WORTHINGTON RENAISSANCE HOTEL FORT WORTH FOOD + WINE FESTIVAL

Inspired by the grandeur of the Lone Star State, this big and bold evening showcases more than 100 exceptional wines, craft beers and spirits from near and far, with spotlights on Fort Worth favorites, such as Rahr & Sons Brewing Co. and Firestone & Robertson Distilling Co. The sipping pairs perfectly with food from the best North Texas chefs, restaurateurs and artisan producers and crafters.

Tickets available at FWFWF.com.

MARCH 27 #LATENIGHT DESSERTS AFTER DARK AT 809 VICKERY FORT WORTH FOOD + WINE FESTIVAL

It’s Friday night, right? Time to sip a true Texas cocktail, enjoy sweet somethings and dance the night away. The festival’s #latenight aims to please: using Firestone & Robertson’s TX Blended Whiskey in their creations, eight pastry chefs and eight mixologists craft special eats and drinks for your palate’s pleasure. Tickets available at FWFWF.com.

MARCH 28 RISE + DINE AT WORTHING RENAISSANCE HOTEL FORT WORTH FOOD + WINE FESTIVAL

Saturday brunch was never more tasty or diverse than at this feast.

Dozens of dream dishes from a dazzling assortment of noted area restaurants include eggs Benedict, omelets, migas and huevos rancheros, bodacious biscuits and gravy, plus breakfast tacos that will go down in history. What’s more, there’s a big selection of craft beer, specialty wines and spirits, plus a mimosa bar and a bloody mary bar that allows you to craft just the right eye-opener. Tickets available at FWFWF.com.

MARCH 28 BURGERS, BREWS AND BLUES AT

SHARING THE PAST THROUGH ART

HEART OF THE RANCH

AMON CARTER MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART

FORT WORTH FOOD + WINE FESTIVAL

Designed for adults with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers, participants discuss artists, exhibitions, and themes, and use artworks to connect to past experiences. Call 817.989.5030 or email visitors@ cartermuseum.org to receive helpful instructions and parking information. No reservations are required. 3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard.

What’s better than a trio of all-American classics: sliders, craft beer and blues? Come on out to a rockin’ party on ranchland lining the Trinity River for a some of the best snacking and suds to be found. Find 11 chefs grilling up their best mini-burgers, bookended by 22 craft breweries, each pouring two different beers for your tasting pleasure. Throughout the evening, enjoy the live blues band lineup. Tickets available at FWFWF.com.

28

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

817.714.8996 Exquisite Food Prepared from Scratch | Flawless Service | Creative Presentation

$

360CateringAndEvents.com Come see us at the Victory Arts Center!

100

off

our zero emission machines Miele S8 or RiccaR Radiance FoRt WoRth - 6465 camp Bowie Blvd.

817.732.5400

J o n e va n S

www.evansvacuum.com noRth Richland hillS - 5101 Davis Blvd.

817.281.5498

RiveR oakS - 2621 Jacksboro hwy

817.626.2848

aRlington - 3300 s. cooper street

817.860.4217

March 2015 | West FW Lifestyle

29

Business Directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Ann Beck Photography (817) 401-0134 annbeckphotography.com Kat Swift Photography (682) 201-6719

AUTOMOTIVE Cowtown Rover (817) 731-3223 cowtownrover.com Jerry’s Cadillac (817) 597-1287 jerryscadillac.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Fort Worth Cosmetic & Family Dentistry (817) 737-6601 ngreendental.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION

Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival fortworthfoodandwinefestival.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING Charles R. Green & Associates Inc (817) 348-8700

HEALTH & WELLNESS Eyes on Camp Bowie (817) 738-9301 eyesoncampbowie.com Fit Body Bootcamp (682) 704-9698 fbbcfw.com Texas Health Resources Willow Park texashealth,org/willow-park-fitness

3027 Ramona Drive • Fort Worth, TX 76116 Phone: 817-924-1645 Cell: 817-247-7411 estimates@ramonroofing.com • www.ramonroofing.com 30

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS Bowen Wilson (817) 723-1156

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS Nayfa’s Furniture (817) 731-9828 nayfasfurniture.com

HOME SERVICES Aloha Pool Service (817) 560-7665

Archies Gardenland (817) 737-6614 archiesgardenland.com Floor Source (817) 263-0332 Ramon roofing (817) 924-1645 ramonroofing.com

Licensed by Roofing Contractors Association of Texas.

Member of North Texas Roofing Contractors Association 2013 President of the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas. Certified by many top quality roofing manufactures.

With the Emphasis On: Service 817.560.7665

Dr. Cindy Zimmerman, Optometrist 817-738-9301 | www.eyesoncampbowie.com 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd. Ste. 272 • Fort Worth, TX

OP-RS15-WRK194_Camp_7.083x3.15.indd 1

After

12/11/14 3:53 PM

Quality Custom Solid Wood Furniture Finished & Unfinished Pieces

Nayfa’s Furniture 7936 Camp Bowie West Fort Worth, TX 76116 Behind Westside Café Before

817-731-9828

Custom Finishing Available March 2015 | West FW Lifestyle

31

Business Directory Southern Harvest (817) 236-5296 harvestlandscape.com

Buffalo West (817) 732-2370 buffalowestfw.com

OTHER

mi cocula (817) 708-2895

Bring me Groceries (817) 266-9146 bringmegroceries.com Evans vacuums (817) 732-5400

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE Virginia Cook Realtors (817) 665-1222 viginiacook.com Wilco Realtors (817) 703-7491 wilcorealtors.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE 360 Catering & Events (817) 714-8996 360cateringandevents.com

Bronze Envy Tan (817) 377-6252 bronzeenvytan.com

Chasta’s Safer Nail Care (817) 727-5800 Metropolitan Day Spa (817) 877-3417 metropolitandayspa.com

Roy Pope Grocery (817) 732-2863 roypopegrocery.com Ties to the Past (817) 244-3134

TRAVEL & LEISURE Backwoods Fort Worth (817) 332-2423 backwoods.com

Z Spa (817) 509-4967 zspadfw.com

Connect with us today and read feature articles, view special offers, enter contests and more!

facebook.com/WestFWLifestyle

Info@LifestylePubs.com ~ 817.290.2120 West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

Lisa McConnell Custom Jewelry Design & Repair (817) 732-4440 lisamcconnell.com

SALONS & SPAS

Your favorite Lifestyle Publication is on facebook!

32

Fort Worth Billiards (817) 377-1004 dfwbilliards.com

Oscar’s Pub (817) 732-3833 oscarspub.com

Did you know?

Questions or Comments?

SPECIALTY SHOPS

FRESH FRESH FRESH START START START

Chasta’s

Safer Nail Care

Chasta McGaster, ANT 817.727.5800

Call or Text for an Appointment

Where Safety and Style Meet & Real Experience Matters ~ Over 20 Years Experience ~

Receive 20% Off

when you mention this ad!

Located inside Legacy Ridgmar

1620 Mall Circle 76116

Famous for No Good Reason Bar Catering • Great Covered Patio Daily Specials • Mimosa Brunch $3 Glasses of Wine All the Time 6323 Camp Bowie Blvd #125 | Fort Worth, TX 76116

(817) 732-3833

Happy Hour

Open Daily 12pm-2am

Sunday-Friday 3PM - 7PM Thursday All Day

6550 Camp Bowie Blvd. Suite 130 Fort Worth, TX 76116

817.708.2895

Good friends • good times • good margaritas • quality food March 2015 | West FW Lifestyle

33

Parting Thoughts

You’re Invited to Join the Great Purge & Clean of 2015!

H

WORDS LISA COOKE HARRISON

appy New Year! Now that you’ve got your fitness and wellness goals firmly in place, it’s time to look closely at the space around you and ask yourself, “Are things looking a little cluttered?” or “Are my closets bursting at the seams?”

Why not set a goal to de-clutter and, more importantly, simplify this year?

Several years ago, I was inspired by a book called Simple Abundance to set a goal to clean, sort and rid my home of much of the stuff that was being stored but rarely used in spare drawers, closets, cabinets and bookshelves around my home. Finding truth in the idea that ‘we fill the space we have’ meant that my home-sweet-home was filled to the brim. Like many of you, I’m blessed to live in a house with extra closets, an extra bedroom and lots of built-in cabinets and book shelves. I realized in the 12 years we’d lived in our home, we’d filled all of these spaces. It was time to attack them and I needed a plan.

My goal? To get rid of something nearly every day.

As I sit and watch television in the evenings, I try to use that time to clean out a drawer or two or a shelf in one of the nearby closets. (Commercials are the perfect time to put things back.)

One night I carried all of the plastic shoe boxes that make up our first aid and medicine closet supplies. It’s amazing how many nearly empty bottles of cough syrup and Tums we’d accumulated.

An hour later my waste basket was full and I’d easily pitched more than a dozen items and so my goal for that week was met.

Once upon a time I thought every bookshelf should be lined with

KatSwiftPhotography@gmail.com |

books and so I collected and I kept every book I finished. Now I take pride in half empty bookshelves that provide me with space to show off pretty collectibles and a few framed family photos.

My beloved got involved at a different level. He started selling things on Craig’s List and eBay. Suddenly the wood chipper and junior golf clubs in the garage had each brought in fifty dollars. That alone was motivation for him to keep posting. We agreed this method was significantly easier than a garage sale since we both work full-time.

Twice a year I go through my son’s closets and dressers. It doesn’t take more than 20 minutes of playing “Keep or toss?” with my growing teens to whittle down their t-shirt collection and get rid of the clothes that no longer fit. Since they seem to come home with a t-shirt a week from one activity or another, it’s easy for them to have 10 favorites and ignore the rest.

Do you ever find yourself watching an episode of something on your computer? Use that time to organize and purge from your desk, home office space or kitchen, depending on where your computer lives.

The organizational experts all seem to agree—if it isn’t useful, sentimental or beautiful, it might be time to let it go.

f/KatSwiftPhotographyAndRestoration

NOW BOOKING SPRING PORTRAITS

Repair and revive aged or damaged photos. It makes a great gift!

FAMILY • PORTRAITS • PETS • FASHION • SPECIAL EVENTS • LIVE ACTION • SPECIALIZING IN PORTRAIT RETOUCHING 34

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015

Buffalo West RestauRant 7101 Camp Bowie West, Fort Worth, TX 76116

817-732-2370 | buffalowestFW.com

ST. PATRICK'S DAY AT BUFFALO WEST

JOIN US FOR A CRAWFISH BOIL AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FROM

UPTOWN DRIFTERS

TUESDAY, MARCH 17 FRIDAY -SATURDAY, MARCH 20-21

• Huge Salad Bar • Prime Rib & Steaks • Chicken Fried Steak

Chris Piekarski

General Manager, Vice President

• Patio, Bar, Weekend Live Entertainment • Private Meeting/Party Rooms • Sunday Brunch 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM • Sunday Dinner 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM

#BestPatioFortWorth

FIND YOUR SELFIE A FABULOUS REALTOR!

GRASSROOTS START AT HOME Residential Sales | Residential Leasing | Property Management HOA Management | Commercial Sales | Farm and Ranch Wilco Realtors, LLC

- Russell Wilkins, Margaret Coulborn & Julie Wilkins

www.wilcorealtors.com | 817-703-7491 www.wilcopropertymanagement.com 36

West FW Lifestyle | March 2015