®
M A D EW O R T H Y
FRESH FOOD FAST CENTRALMARKET.COM/SHOP
®
available at our Fort Worth location. We’ll waive the fees on your first 4 orders.
The Perfect Home Deserves the Perfect Mortgage. You found it. After countless hours, you chose the ideal house to become your perfect home. But before you’d even seen it, you already had the perfect mortgage from First Financial Mortgage. They offered exactly the terms and rates you wanted, with a level of personal, local service that made you feel right at home. From conventional purchases and refinances, construction or purchase plus home improvement loans, First Financial Mortgage puts you first.
Please contact:
Cameron Horton, Loan Officer Office: 682-703-6420 Cell: 817-800-1626 Email: chorton@ffin.com
FFIN.com
NMLS: 1289701
1000 Forest Park Blvd. Ste 300 Fort Worth, Texas 76110 First Financial Mortgage, a division of First Financial Bankshares, Inc.
Your Best
Ever You
Look better than ever! Call us to get a consultation for CoolSculpting to be a part of our “Like It, Love It, Gotta Have It” package for up to $500 off in addition to package pricing!
817-228-4315 Follow us @stevencampmd to see our monthly specials! #happycampermd
It’s more than a catchy phrase
Become a Happy Camper CAMPPLASTICSURGERY.COM | 817.228.4315 | 3455 LOCKE AVENUE #320, FORT WORTH, TX 76107
CONTRIBUTERS’ ® What class do you regret not taking in school?
Issue 10 | The Education Issue | Mar/Apr 2019
P U B L I S H E R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Victoria Wise E D I T O R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lee Virden Geurkink ILL U S T R A T O R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Trish Wise L E A D D E S I G N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sovic Designs C O V E R D E S I G N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Victoria Wise
A: Business - Victoria Wise
A: Smith’s Southern
Religions - Lee Virden Geurkink
A: World history
A: Cultural Dynamics
- Sarah Angle
- Lyle Brooks
C O N T R I B UTI N G W R I T E R S Sarah Angle Lyle Brooks Edward Brown Jackie Hoermann-Elliott Jennifer Kieta Shilo Urban William Wise
A: Cross country - Edward Brown
A: Shop class - Kim Burnstad
A: Oil painting - Jackie Hoermann-Elliott
A: Math, so I can help my fifth grader with hers! - Jennifer Kieta
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Edward Brown Kim Burnstad Jodie Miears
Madeworthy® Magazine is an extension of Tanglewood Moms, LLC., and serves to tell community stories for a family audience. For website and magazine advertising opportunities, please contact: Victoria@MadeworthyMedia.com
A: more Spanish - Jodie Miers
Letter from the Publisher // Victoria Wise To piggyback on the contributor question, the one class I wish I had taken was Business. Scratch that. The college major I wish I had pursued was Business. I loved what I had chosen at the time. I was an RTVF major with a focus in Film Studies. In a nutshell, I watched movies. My father always joked and asked “What was that TCU education I paid for?” I learned how to be a storyteller through visual communications, but who knew that in today’s social media driven world that would be so useful? My photography minor has also played a key role in helping me tell these stories through instant visual images that must break through incessant thumb scrolling or swiping through Stories. Nevertheless, I am thankful that my natural abilities guided me to where I am today. If I could go back and tell my younger self anything, it would be to take an accounting class, an economics class, even a basic how to start and grow your own business workshop. It’s such an important skill in today’s world of job competition, outsourced labor, and reduced corporate life expectancy. Being an entrepreneur can open an amazing
world to a student who might not “fit the mold” in other subjects. We don’t play by the rules, and innovation and sheer determination is what is most revered in this Wild West world of making your own way in business. At the heart of it, education is everything, but you already know that. The question is, how do we get our kids to really believe it? I’m a mom of four, and it can be a daily struggle to help our kids read, learn new math skills, do their homework without asking, and somehow save enough for their college education. It’s enough to keep you up at night. The advice I can give that has helped me keep them motivated and myself from wearing out is to just love them through it. Reward the small gains, don’t punish the setbacks, and celebrate the big wins in a way they will remember. I think that piece of advice functions no matter your children’s ages. Even though I didn’t follow in my dad’s footsteps and get a M.D., he knew to encourage me to follow my heart and passions even if that meant getting a degree in watching movies. You never know where those passions might take you!
A: Writing - Shilo Urban
A: Underwater basket weaving. I’d heard it was great but never jumped in. I was afraid I’d be in over my head.
A:
Marketing - Trish Wise
- William Wise
Letter from the Editor // Lee Virden Geurkink “The purpose of learning is growth, and our minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing as we continue to live.” – Mortimer Adler Mortimer Adler was right. Learning is a life-long process, and it isn’t confined to a classroom. Learning can take place back stage, on a basketball court, or on the back of a horse. Learning isn’t the rote memorization of formulae, capital cities, or dates. It is the incorporation of new experiences into our being. It is expansion and improvement. In last year’s issue, I apologized to my teachers for my many sins as a student. This year, I want to thank my teachers for the gifts they so freely gave me. To Ms. Jones, thank you for encouraging my love of reading. To immerse myself wholly in a book is one of the joys of my life. To Ms. Carr, thank you for your experiential approach to teaching. We learned about the American legal system by putting Bilbo Baggins on trial for stealing the Arkenstone. We learned about personal finance by setting up a class bank, “checking” and “savings”
accounts, and playing the stock market. I guarantee that none of your students have forgotten the lessons you helped us to learn. To Mrs. Jensen, thank you for introducing me to Shakespeare. My life is richer because of you. To Mr. Donaldson, thank you for not only making European history fascinating, but, more importantly, for allowing your students to learn that people can disagree and yet remain friends. We learned to debate instead of argue, and, most importantly, we learned to empathize with people who have different opinions. This issue of Madeworthy is dedicated to all aspects of education and learning. We explore a community group with a focus on education that seeks to help disadvantaged young men in Fort Worth. We profile a professor at TCU with a passion for teaching her students how to succeed in the cutthroat world of professional theater. We guide parents through the confusing world of high school testing. And once again, we salute Fort Worth teachers who go above and beyond their job descriptions and truly educate our children.
the heart of a
&
COACH TEACHER
by Jennifer Kieta
Basketball coach John Wooden once said: “A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life.” Raegan Pebley is a great coach. With 20 years coaching experience, she has spent the last 5 years at TCU coaching women’s basketball. Raegan and I grabbed coffee at a favorite local restaurant so she could share her journey of how she became the kind of coach she is today. Raegan said that she has always been surrounded by “God-sent coaches,” starting with her own dad. At 74, he is still teaching and coaching. According to Raegan, “it’s in his DNA.” Having a parent as a coach could lead to conflict, but Raegan said, “He coached me out of his heart, out of a place of love.” This is how he approached both coaching his daughter and raising her. “It’s really what formed my philosophy, my reasoning in the WHY in what I do, and I don’t know how to do it any other way.” At the core of her style, Raegan says she wants
to help her players “discover what it means to be at their best self, what it means when they stand on their own two feet, what that means in their relationships with other people, and their relationship with God. It’s all-encompassing.” I asked Raegan, “What does it feel like to be coached by you?” This is one of the questions she asks when interviewing assistant coaches. I thought she should answer her own question. “First of all,” she said, “you know that you’re loved, cared about, and thought about. You know that someone is always available. You are going to be held accountable, not just to your own self, but to others – your teammates and the school because you are a part of something bigger than yourself… you are going to know that you have worked as hard as you have ever worked. You will feel very prepared.”
Raegan admitted she does not get it right all the time, but she has learned in her journey that almost everybody wants you to coach, understand their heart, and know their vulnerabilities. “Students want to be validated… you can’t help them grow through adversity without that sense of unconditional love and safety.” So how does she do it? How does she mindfully help these young women feel supported and loved? All her players come from different backgrounds with their own sets of challenges, so Raegan says it is important to meet them where they are. “I do oneon-one time with all of them, usually once every two weeks. Sometimes it’s coffee, or while we are on a road trip… When I am around them, I try to really pay
attention to their non-verbal cues… and just be ready
to put everything down that I need to… being able to see that one particular player may need a different approach is important.” Raegan says that one of the reasons she came to coach at TCU was due to the questions they asked her in the interview. She says, “It wasn’t just about win and loss. They were more focused on culture, philosophy, mentoring, and relationship building.” When asked what she wanted to say to other teachers and coaches who invest in their students’ lives, she said, “I’d say it’s so much like being a parent. If you are doing it right, you will work so hard and you are going to think about these people you are serving outside of your 9 am to 5 pm hours. You will have those moments where you will wonder, ‘Do they have any idea how much I care about them? Do they have any idea how much time I am putting into them?’ They might say something that can be really hurtful… and you feel like a failure, but just like your parents may have told you, ‘You’ll never know how much I love you until you are a parent yourself.’ The players/students aren’t meant to know… My kids, Joe and Harper, don’t know the depth of my love for them. Their minds cannot comprehend it until they themselves are in a place to love that way one day.” Hearing and feeling the heart of this educator reinforced for me that there are teachers and coaches out there serving our kids in a way that is selfless, loving, and completely committed to bettering their lives. We cannot be with our children all the time. People like Raegan make it easier to let go and let them spread their wings as they learn to soar. photos courtesy of TCU Athletics
HATCH TAMALE PIE Tamale pie has very little to do with real tamales. It’s simply a ground beef and vegetable filling topped with cornbread.
for the cake 2 pounds lean ground beef 1 large red onion, chopped 3 raw Hatch chiles, seeded and chopped 2 to 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced 1 16-oz can fire-roasted, diced tomatoes 1 16-oz can corn 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander Salt and pepper to taste 1 recipe of your favorite cornbread, uncooked
Back when I was a chef, I also taught cooking classes. I loved taking a recipe, breaking it down into its component parts, and then figuring out how to teach it to people who were uncomfortable cooking. One of my greatest joys was when a student would come back and tell me that not only had they made a recipe of mine but that they had experimented with it and come up with something new and even more delicious. Equipping my students with basic kitchen skills was fulfilling; knowing that they could use that knowledge and create new things was delightful. What follows are some recipes that I created for our website and Central Market. It is close to teaching, and I hope you enjoy. – Lee Geurkink
2 roasted Hatch chiles, peeled, seeded, and chopped Shredded cheddar or Monterrey Jack, optional directions Preheat the oven to 350°. Brown the ground beef in a large sauté pan or skillet and drain. Add the onions, raw Hatch chiles, and garlic and sauté until the onions are translucent. Add the tomatoes, corn, chili powder, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper, and mix well. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. While the filling is cooking, make the cornbread batter according to directions. Stir in the roasted Hatch chiles. Put the filling in a casserole dish, cover with the cornbread batter, sprinkle with the cheese (optional) and bake. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top of the cornbread is golden brown, and a knife stuck in the topping comes out cleanly. Let this stand for about 10 minutes before serving. Serves 6.
A LOWCOUNTRY BOIL A Lowcountry boil is superbly simple and completely delicious. There’s no real recipe, just guidelines.
ingredients THE VICTORIA
1 lemon, halved 1 onion, halved
I made this recipe first for the Tanglewood Moms Live event on International Women’s Day in 2017. Named after our Founding Mother, the Victoria is an adult milkshake with candied bacon to make it that much better.
1 head garlic, halved 3 bay leaves
ingredients
Salt to taste
12 slices of applewood smoked bacon
½ pound of shrimp (21-25 count or larger) per person and leave the shells on!
½ cup light brown sugar
2 to 3 redskin new potatoes per person
2 pints salted caramel ice cream or gelato
1 ear of freshly shucked corn per person – break or cut each ear in half
6 shots bourbon
¼ pound smoked sausage (Andouille, kielbasa, etc) per person,
Enough milk to smooth out the milkshakes
cut into largish chunks
directions for candied bacon
directions
Preheat the oven to 350° F. Place a sheet of parchment on a baking sheet, and arrange the bacon slices on it. (You can do this in two batches, depending on the size of your baking sheet.) Sprinkle the bacon slices with the brown sugar. Top with another piece of parchment paper and another baking sheet. This will allow the bacon to cook without curling up. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, checking the bacon occasionally. You want the bacon to be cooked and the brown sugar to be melted, but you don’t want to burn the brown sugar. When it has cooked, remove the bacon from the oven and allow to cool. This can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container on the counter for up to 12 hours.
Bring the water to a rolling boil in a very large stockpot with the crab boil/Old Bay. Add the lemon, onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves, and salt. Add in the potatoes and cook for about 20 minutes. Add in the sausage and cook for about 5 minutes. Add in the corn and cook for about 5 minutes (no longer!). Add in the shrimp, and cook just until the shrimp turns pink, about 3 to 5 minutes. If you overcook the shrimp, they will be rubbery and nasty. Drain and serve. The best way to serve is to cover a table with newspaper and just dump the drained goodies down the middle. Have a good, horseradishy cocktail sauce for the shrimp, butter for the corn and potatoes, and lots and lots of napkins or paper towels for fingers.
directions for shake To make the adult milkshake, dump the ice cream or gelato and the bourbon into a blender and blend. Add the milk a little bit at a time until the milkshake reaches the desired creaminess. Serve the milkshakes with a couple of slices of the candied bacon and a straw. Of course, you can leave out the bourbon to make these more child-friendly. Serves 6.
illustrations by Trish Wise 6
Fall in love all over again …with your home.
EV EN TS
ACTIVITIE S
Victoria Wise, TanglewoodMoms.com founder and Madeworthy publisher, brings you the top Fort Worth experiences. You do not want to miss these!
Mar-Apr various dates Lanterns in the Garden: Fort Worth Botanic Gardens | fwbg.org/events/lanterns-in-thegarden
Mar 1-3 In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated, Ghost Dances and 11:11: Bass Hall | texasballettheater.org
Apr 2 Booked: a business book club: Leaves | leavesbookandteashop.com
Apr 4 | 11:30am-1pm Legends Luncheon: Fort Worth Club | mealsonwheels.org
Apr 4-5 Alexandre Tharaud, piano: Kimbell Art Museum | cliburn.org
Apr 4-7 Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival | fortworthfoodandwinefestival.com
Apr 4-28 The Father: Stage West | stagewest.org photo by Steven Visneau
Mar 2
Apr 6 | 4pm Water Lantern Festival: Panther Island Pavilion | waterlanternfestival.com
Sensory Aware Saturday: Fort Worth Museum of Science and History | fwmuseum.org
Mar 3 | 2-3:30pm Drawing from the Collection for Children: Museum of Modern Art | themodern.org
Mar 6-9 Anthony & Cleopatra: Amphibian Stage | amphibianstage.com
Mar 7 | 7:30am Champions Breakfast: Ridglea Country Club | girlsinctarrant.org
modern
Mar 9 | 9am-5pm TRWD FlyFest: Trinity River at Bryant Irvin | trwdflyfest.com
Apr 7 Open Streets: Near Southside | nearsouthsidefw.org
Apr 11-13 Main Street Arts Festival: Downtown Fort Worth | mainstreetartsfest.org
PAINT & PAPER . INTERIOR FINISHING . HOME DECOR (682)708-7742 . 1301 Hurley Ave . modernmaisoninteriors.com photo by Geno Loro
Mar 9 Funky Finds Spring Fling: Will Rogers Coliseum | funkyfinds.com/spring-fling
Mar 10 | 12pm Her Market: Foundry District | facebook.com/hermarketfw
Mar 11 Kids Knit with JuJu Knits: The Woman’s Club of Fort Worth | jujuknitsfw.com
Apr 12 Friday on the Green: Near Southside | nearsouthsidefw.org
Apr 14, 12-7pm Artspace111 Wedding Market: Artspace111 | artspace111.com
Expand your child’s world! Register online March 1! Visit our website to learn more at www.trinityvalleyschool.org/summer
photo by Fawn and Fellow Photography
Mar 14 The History of the Mariachi: Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth | themodern.org
Mar 19 | 7:30pm One Night of Queen: Bass Hall | basshall.com
Mar 22 | 7:30pm Jurassic Park in Concert: Bass Hall | basshall.com
Mar 27 Puttin’ on the Pink Fashion Luncheon: Convention Center | www4.texashealth.org
photo by Bruce Maxwell
Mar 27-Apr 7
TVS
TRINITY VALLEY SCHOOL K-12, Coed, Independent School | tvs.org | 817.321.0100
Jason Bishop, The Illustionist: Casa Mañana | casamanana.org
Mar 29 | 7-10pm Celebrity Chef Dinner: The Botanical Research Institute of Texas | brit.org
Apr 19 – May 2 The Wizard of Oz: Casa Mañana | casamanana.org
Apr 25 Casa Kids on Canvas: Brik Venue | speakupforachild.networkforgood.com
Apr 27-28 Fortress Festival: Will Rogers Memorial Center | fortressfestival.com
photo by Victoria Wise
Apr 27 | 4:30-6:40pm Wesleyan Wine Walk: Texas Wesleyan University | advancement.txwes.edu
Apr 16 | 6-9pm Camp Fire El Tesoro de la Vida Benefit Dinner: Cendera Center | campfirefw.org
Photo courtesy of CommUnity Frontline
CommUnity Frontline Walks the Walk by Shilo Urban
Change begins with each person. Do not wait for someone else to solve issues you come across. If you see indignity, injustice, or those in need that means that it is your assignment to do something. Everything we do makes a difference; every act is monumental no matter how small it may seem. Quinton Phillips talks with passion about his mission as a co-founder of CommUnity Frontline. Even more importantly, he walks the walk. He is being the change that he wishes to see in the world and is making a positive impact alongside the organization’s three other co-founders, Dante Williams, Derek Carson, and Franklin Moss. Friends from an early age, the group leaned on one another as they grew from young boys into successful men. The strength of their brotherhood empowered them in a world with little stability or support from male role models, and now they are creating that same sense of brotherhood through CommUnity Frontline.
AP? CLEP? DUAL CREDIT? Advice from a Professor
by Jackie EH Elliott In Texas, some school districts are now offering to pay AP, CLEP, or dual credit fees in order to push students to complete associate degrees before finishing high school. Yes, the rush to educate students out of school is growing, and the pressure falls most heavily on parents to make decisions before their children know if or where they will attend college. As the Assistant Director of Composition at Texas Woman’s University (TWU), a position that requires me to oversee part of our growing dual credit program, I’ve spent a lot of time in dual credit classrooms. I’m also part of a larger research study to assess the learning of students who placed out of our general education courses using AP, CLEP, or dual credit. Each part of this trifecta is separate and distinct. To be clear, each of these options is defined as follows: Advanced Placement (AP) exams are held every spring. Students who earn a certain score on these exams may be able to use their score to satisfy a general education course requirement at the college or university of her or his choosing.
CommUnity Frontline is an action-based organization that is dedicated to helping disadvantaged communities in eastern Fort Worth and the greater city as a whole. The men’s collective is made up of different units that tackle diverse issues, from health and family to property preservation and business opportunities. They organize neighborhood clean-ups, mentor young people, and work to creative positive relations between the police and the community. Many of the solutions they seek stem from one fundamental cornerstone of advancement: education. CommUnity Frontline’s Education Unit focuses on enriching educational opportunities for students of all ages, from life skills to financial literacy. They host educational forums about social issues including absentee fatherism, gentrification, and child sex trafficking. Leaders also work directly with teachers and administrators of local schools like Dunbar High School and the Young Men’s Leadership Academy to ensure equitable treatment for all. Forging collaborations to eliminate the achievement gap and the school-to-prison pipeline are top priorities. Last year, the brotherhood partnered with a group of students from TCU to produce an acclaimed documentary, 76105: Dr. King Won't Rise. It tells the story of CommUnity Frontline’s positive impact in Stop Six, the historic East Fort Worth neighborhood that is ground zero for the organization. The film’s title is inspired by the idea that new leaders have to rise up
The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) administers another standardized test to certify students for college readiness. Unlike AP, CLEP exams can be taken yearround and are available to non-traditional students, such as military members. Dual credit is the most difficult to define credit-seeking avenue — also referred to (and comparable to) dual enrollment and concurrent enrollment, although each presents a different model of instruction. In most dual credit scenarios, a high school and a college have formed a partnership for which teachers with select qualifications enter into a contract with the higher education partner and teach to more rigorous, college-appropriate learning outcomes than what will be taught in a nondual credit course. While all these approaches have merit and most have experienced growth in the last decade, dual credit has exploded in Texas. Research from the American Institutes for Research (AIR) has shown that “Between 2000 and 2016, the count of high school students taking at least one dual credit course rose from approximately 18,524 to 204,286, an increase of more than 1,100%.” Additionally, 93% of Texas high schools offer some sort of dual credit opportunity. Whether a student chooses AP, CLEP, or dual credit, she or he is making a financial investment, first and foremost. The spirit of these options is to make higher education accessible and affordable for especially bright, collegebound students. The real appeal, I think, is the relatively low cost of an entrance exam or a reduced tuition rate for dual credit-seeking students. For the 2018-2019 academic year at TWU, we charge $150 per course, a savings of $1048. Will this course credit transfer anywhere? It’s hard to say. The reality is that the dual credit your
today—because the leaders of the past aren’t coming back. “The movie shows that people care about an area of town that previously seemed forgotten,” Phillips says, “and that people are willing to step up and not simply wait for what may or may not come.” Taking action is key. 76105: Dr. King Won't Rise toured the film festival circuit throughout 2018, resonating with audiences across the country and bringing greater awareness to the brotherhood’s work. But more help is needed. “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few,” Phillips says. Presence is the only prerequisite for those who want to be involved, a simple yet mighty tool for teaching leadership skills. “We believe that in order to be a man, you must see a man. We find it impossible to hold young people to an expectation when they have not been privy to experiencing the behavior first. We attempt to provide the power of presence with young men; being around them and verbally advising while simultaneously modeling the manhood we hope they achieve.” CommUnity Frontline isn’t saving the community – it’s inspiring the community to save itself, which is infinitely more powerful. The bonds of brotherhood create a sense of accountability, stability, and fellowship for young men who might not experience them otherwise. “People want to feel that they are part of something larger than themselves and that they are not in this world alone with their thought processes and desires. Circumstances can seem insurmountable when approached individually but can be conquered collectively. We are stronger together.” With a mission of mobilization, the group is involved in numerous events, including the Jet Relays Soul Festival in March. Phillips extends an open invitation to all, “Any event that we have, come out and join us and we will find ways for people to be involved. We can use all hands on deck.” CommUnity Frontline’s devotion to positive transformation has not only uplifted Fort Worth, it has also provided a model for communities throughout America that want to walk the walk. To be the change. “We feel that people deserve love, respect and dignity,” Phillips explains. “We’re just trying to do our part in the world.” For more information about volunteering with CommUnity Frontline or to make a donation, please visit www.CommUnityfrontline.com or find the organization on social media. Watch 76105: Dr. King Won't Rise on YouTube.
student pursues is only guaranteed to transfer if she or he enrolls in her or his dual credit-administering institution. While it is often the case that credit will transfer from one public university to most other public colleges or universities, there is no guarantee. Your chances of transfer may also decrease if your child attends a private institution, a college out of state, or one of the Ivy League schools. The same is true for AP and CLEP credits; however, you can request information on the possibility of transfer by calling the college’s admissions office. Does the student stand a good shot of passing the course? While the prospect of an unsatisfactory score is disheartening, the financial investment is relatively low. I believe AP and dual credit courses are safe training grounds for failure and future success. With dual credit in particular, most colleges will allow students to withdraw from a course early in the semester, thereby preventing any lackluster grades from appearing on official transcripts. Personally, I encourage most students and parents to give AP and dual credit courses a cautious but earnest shot, offering the caveat that instructor autonomy and a wide range of student abilities mean that experiences in these courses will vary greatly. I am also a firm believer in enjoying the traditional approach to satisfying general education requirements. In these first- and second-year courses, students are sampling different degree paths and learning more about who they are as learners and citizens of a larger intellectual community. Though not the cheapest route to a degree, there is something to be appreciated about the design of a liberal arts and sciences education. My hope for all students pursuing higher education is that they learn to slow down, to savor their intellectual curiosity, and to discover what subjects set their worlds aflame.
KEEPING A HEALTHY SMILE AS YOU G OW!
Providing exceptional dental care in a fun, child-friendly environment.
www.fwkids.com
(817) 569-6633
5521 Bellaire Dr. South, Ste. 210, Fort Worth, TX 76109
JENNIE H. 100 lbs. lost with Profile
WEIGHT LOSS
Discover Profile. THAT WORKS
You owe it to yourself to be done with diets and choose lasting weight loss through Profile by Sanford. Our nutrition, activity and lifestyle coaching helps members lose weight and keep it off. We believe in you and our program so much, we promise you’ll lose 15% of your body weight in 12 months.
CALL OR STOP IN TO OUR TANGLEWOOD LOCATION & START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY!
(817) 508- 9961
3000 S. Hulen St, Suite 127 Fort Worth, Texas 76109
photo by Jodie Miears, Reverie Photo Co.
P E N N Y M A A S A N D T C U T H E AT R E by Lyle Brooks
P
erhaps your first trip to the theatre was as a kid to see a production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” “The Music Man,” or some other dazzling display full of iconic tunes that live on in your imagination. We know the feeling of our hairs standing on end at the raw exhilaration of seeing the age-old triple threat of acting, singing and dancing, which can lift us out of our seats and beyond our own lives. Many people will save up all year in order to experience these dynamic thrills from the best seats in the house. Others are drawn to perform in front of the white-hot footlights. Behind each role in any given work on stage is a performer who has navigated a journey replete with hard work, wise mentors who took the time to impart wisdom, and a lot of luck. Following their aspirations, students in TCU’s theatre program seek to fully realize their potential. Beyond the roles onstage, students work on crews behind the scenes, running the box office, and managing the front of house for shows ranging from David Mamet to big productions like this year’s “42nd Street.” In addition, for a week each spring, the senior class travels to New York City to showcase their training and learn from industry professionals. In 2012, Alan Shorter was relieved when Penny Ayn Maas arrived on the TCU campus; he had been teaching Musical Theatre all by his lonesome so was thereafter buoyed by an experienced, multi-talented partner to share in teaching the complex nexus of skills required to create true theatre professionals. The affable Shorter, a skilled musician and director, had been skeptical of New York showcases until Maas reported on her experiences, detailing, “It is important that we prepare students to be professionals. Much of the time, programs give you your degree and just send you out into the world.” This was how the process worked for Shorter after completing his coursework at Indiana University, leaving him to fend for himself in regional theatre before teaching in Wisconsin and eventually migrating to TCU. Penny Maas has an infectious warmth and ease
about her. As a performer, she has shared some of the most revered stages with the biggest names in the industry. She has been inside a world few have ever known, and now, as an academic, she spends her days passing those experiences on to the next generation of aspiring actors in TCU’s Theatre Program. When she joined the faculty, Maas brought a wealth of experience from 21 years treading the boards in New York City. She signed her first show without an agent by going to open calls. “There’s so much opportunity for success, so much happening; New York is right in your face.” Four years after graduating from Illinois Wesleyan University and two years after moving to New York, she joined the original cast of 1992’s “Crazy For You” – a tribute to the Brothers Gershwin – of which The New York Times’ Frank Rich wrote, “When future historians try to find the exact moment at which Broadway finally rose up to grab the musical back from the British, they just may conclude that the revolution began last night.” For five years, she was in the cast of that pinnacle of showstoppers, “Cabaret,” at Studio 54, during which time celebrities such as Neil Patrick Harris, Michael C. Hall, and Molly Ringwald would rotate into the featured roles, in what she describes as a fast-charging precision machine that ran eight shows every week. Even after years away, she still has the recurring Broadway dream: “I still dream that they are doing a revival of “Crazy for You,” but I’ve done no rehearsal and don’t know the steps. Classic actor’s nightmare.” A gifted storyteller, Penny was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, to missionaries; when hustling for parts in New York became too much of a grind, she adjusted. “I got tired of the game. If you don’t have that mindset, you will not work. 10
It is exhausting to be focused on yourself all the time.” Over the years, Maas had crossed paths with legendary performer Patti D’Beck. “She was the thing, sort of scary and tiny.” Stumbling upon D’Beck’s name in the faculty listing at Virginia Commonwealth University, a light went off in her head. “I wrote to her because she was basically doing what I wanted to do. She had left Broadway, and she was teaching movement, dance and musical theatre at a university… So, I went to learn from her, as her teaching assistant working with her on shows.” It was during her time at VCU that she was first introduced to the concept of packaging senior showcases for NYC agents and casting directors. “I was really impressed by how successful the trip turned out to be even for a smaller program.” University arts programs must at some point define to what degree they feel they should be outward facing and how much energy to expend in those efforts. Prior to the development of the senior showcase in New York, TCU Theatre had more of a regional focus. While traditional acting students are included in the showcase, musical theatre dictates the market and therefore defines how Maas and Shorter shape each student’s performance material. As she points out, “New York has less work for classical actors than musical theatre actors. Big hit plays never run as long as a musical does, maybe a third of the length of a musical.” A key to training the next generation of performers is helping them to develop a thick skin because one simply will not survive in the business without it. For many students, the exposure in New York City will act as a wakeup call for their future aspirations, and Maas says it is vitally important to be realistic. “We have to encourage them but sometimes you have to hear the truth. I try not
to sugar coat things, because these casting directors can be brutal.” “Typing” is a shorthand for the sale of actors by agents, whether they be a character actor, ingenue, quirky sidekick, boy next door, leading man, or villain. Considerations of the actor’s personal type as well as current Broadway trends must guide students’ selections. This can be an emotional process as students must open themselves to how others see them. Maas says, “They are trained to do everything, but, when it comes to showcase, they can’t show the whole spectrum. We want to show off their brightest color. Students don’t want to put themselves in a folder, but that’s how the business works. They put me in the ‘tall blond dancer girl’ folder when I was in New York. That was my type; my agent had two or three of me.” A very few actors fit into their very own category. One example, 2018 graduate Alex Vinh is Vietnamese-American, tiny, and has a huge baritone voice. From his extraordinarily versatile performance in last year’s production of the outrageous “Batboy,” one could see the future was bright for him from the profound combination of physical ability, comedic timing, a booming voice, along with the deep sense of pathos that he brought to the titular role. Everyone called him back at the showcase because of his unique look and rare complement of gifts, and he signed with an agent. Now in its sixth year, the showcase program continues to refine its process and has expanded
showcase preparation into a full year. Developing material for the showcase is a collaboration between Maas, her teaching partner Shorter, and the individual students as they seek to strike the right chord of look, sound, and style. It is a benefit for the students that Shorter and Maas have overlapping backgrounds. Shorter relates, “The good thing is that we don’t always agree with one another, and that’s how it is in the real world – you’ll have different directors who want different things out of you.” Traditional university career services are not equipped for the guidance of freelance artists like actors, dancers, and singers. When social media is added to the mix, these young actors are expected to hustle and stir up interest themselves, which includes maintaining websites and sharing video clips. Expectations have increased over time. As Shorter explains, “If agents are interested, they’ll go immediately on their phone to see what else the students have done. They want to make sure what they’ve liked is not an anomaly. It is
11
important to remember that 90% of the shows they audition for, they won’t get.” The students are grouped into teams for the showcase, duos or the occasional trio, to fit pieces that display their abilities. This novel approach seems to be working. Shorter notes, “We figure each student gets about three minutes, and then we find ways to split it up. The response has been positive from the agents, because they are so different from what they are used to; we want to generate actual intrigue for agents rather than a vanity project that seeks to sell the school to parents.” In this small window of time, seniors seek to show three distinct aspects through a few bars of song, scene work, and dance breaks. Shorter describes his goals for the students musically: “We make sure the students hit the notes they know they can hit, rather than the ones they hope they can hit. If you are a tenor, and you are just now getting the Gs, we are going to hit the Fs.” Once in the city, the group will perform three showcases, two public and a closed one, for talent agents. These promise immediate feedback on material, look, and presentation. Public showcases are open to family and friends, as well as agents who missed the closed show. The young thespians also participate in a series of workshops with focuses ranging from Broadway, Commercial, and Indie Film Casting, to Business and Directorial Guidance. On the third day, students hustle from the early morning all the way through to the primetime slots, which includes a late-night cabaret – allowing the students to flex muscles not seen in the other showcase performances. The cabaret also gives TCU Theatre alumni an opportunity to perform, this year at 54 Below – the premier cabaret spot in New York City. “The cabaret gives us an opportunity to show off our whole program, more than just the seniors. It was very successful last year in front of a packed house,” says Maas. After surviving this marathon day of performing, the students are given two days to explore the city and connect further with theatre professionals. Most success in the performing arts must be attributed to timing, which has worked in TCU’s favor every year, with the exception of the fourth year when a blizzard threw the scheduling out of whack. In 2018, however, they had a record number of five students signed to agents, and Maas and Shorter look to continue building on the growing reputation of the program. Shorter and Maas, along with the rest of the Theatre TCU’s faculty and staff, work diligently to position their students for success. TCU alumna Sophie Morris was part of the initial showcase group in 2014; since signing with Take 3 Talent, she has toured the country with “Dirty Dancing” and “Chicago” and reports, “I have also appeared on Fox's “Gotham” as Celestine Wayne and have an upcoming appearance on “Law and Order: SVU” airing this Valentine's Day.” Class of 2018’s Samantha McHenry moved to NYC two days after graduation. “I was lucky enough to sign with an agent before I even graduated, so he was eager for me to get to the city as soon as possible. I love living here and all of the opportunities that the city provides. TCU gave me the tools I need to succeed.”
SAVE THE DATE
L O N E S TA R F I L M F E S T I VA L SUMMER FILM CAMP JUNE 10-14, 2019 9 AM - 3 PM DAILY
JAMIE DIXON BASKETBALL CAMPS
Presented by Johnny Langdon Film Education Initiative Fort Worth Community Arts Center
WHAT IS SUMMER FILM CAMP?
JUN 14-15 JUN 17-20 JUN 24-27
Presented by the Lone Star Film Society (501c3 nonprofit), this week-long summer camp provides a basic overview of film production for high school-aged students (13-18 years of age) interested in the art of filmmaking. The week consists of hands-on education in screenwriting, acting, directing, cinematography, editing, animation, sound recording, and design.
FATHER CHILD CAMP
DAY CAMP
DAY CAMP
FORT WORTH COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER 1300 Gendy St, Fort Worth, TX 76107 lonestarfilmfestival.com/education
DATES AND REGISTRATION SITE
ABCSPORTSCAMPS.COM/TCUBASKETBALL Open to any and all entrants (limited only by number, age, grade level and/or genders).
SUMMER PLANS? CHECK. Summer University at All Saints’ provides a full summer of more than 150 classes for three-year-olds through high school seniors designed to foster academic growth, stimulate your child’s imagination, pique curiosity, encourage creativity and keep students active. Come join the summer fun! ASESCHOOL.ORG/SUMMERUNIVERSITY
ALL CAMPS ARE OPEN TO ANY AND ALL ENTRANTS
All Saints’ Episcopal School of Fort Worth administers its personnel, academic, extracurricular and tuition assistance programs without regard to gender, race, religion, ethnicity or national origin.
(LIMITED ONLY BY NUMBER, AGE, GRADE LEVEL AND/OR GENDER)
SUMMER CAMPS 2019
SU_Madeworthy.indd 1
2/13/19 7:28 PM
NEW! ONE WEEK CAMPS Elementary - Middle - High School
MINI CAMP! AGES 4-7
Half Day Camps 9am - 11am Boys and Girls 5 - 7 Session 1: June 3 - 6 Session 2: June 10 - 13 Full Day Camps 9am - 5pm Boys and Girls 8 - 13 Session 1: June 3 - 6 Session 2: June 10 - 13
Celebrating over 15 years of FUN!
SEUSSICAL / JUNE INTENSIVE June 17-30
JULY INTERNATIONAL 2 or 3 weeks! July 8-28 or July 15-28
Sessions are tailored to fit each student’s needs with curriculum consisting of reading, writing, math and/or executive function.
Summer ID Girls 8th - 12 grade July 20 - 21 www.ericbellsocceracademy.com 817 - 257 - 6680
Call for an Appointment.
817.737.5437 | www.kidswhocare.org
SPRING BREAK & SUMMER 80+ Adventures, STEM, ACT/SAT Prep Classes Half-Day & Full-Day Camps | Hands-on | Interactive Learning
9:30am-1:30pm Ages 4 & Up Check out our website for dates and details
www.reading-connection.com | 817.924.2000 Camp Phoenix, one of Fort Worth's premier summer day camps, provides weekly themed camps filled with engaging activities, hands-on experiences, and interest-based exploration through a variety of indoor and outdoor opportunities for students from Prek3 to Kindergarten, and 1st grade through 5th grade. We also proudly host a Counselor-in-Training Leadership program for middle and high school students. Join us this summer, and let us be your camper's favorite memory!
June 3 -7 | June 10-17 | June 17-21 | June 24-28 July 8-12 | July 15-19 | July 22-26 | July 29 - Aug 2
REGISTER NOW! Space is Limited! June 3-August 8 // Grades 1-12
lifelong.tcu.edu/summer 817-257-7132
www.lonestargym.org 817.294.1114
www.campphoenixfw.com | 817.294.0124 7601 Bellaire Dr S, Fort Worth, TX 76132
THE CASE FOR
by Lee Virden Geurkink
As the old Bluebird school bus rattled across the wooden bridge spanning the Pecos River on that June day in 1981, I had no idea that my life was about to change for the better. Brush Ranch Camps in Tererro, New Mexico, was to become my refuge for the next eight summers. While there, I would grow into the person I am today as I rode horses, hiked through the Sangre de Cristo mountains, and sang songs around campfires. Peter Scales, Ph.D, is a senior fellow with the Search Institute in Minneapolis. He is also a big fan of summer camps. He writes, "Camp is one of the few institutions where young people can experience and satisfy their need for physical activity, creative expression and true participation in a community environment.” Whether it is a sleep-away camp lasting the entire summer, or a day camp that runs for a week close to home, summer camp can be an important part of a child’s physical and mental development. While the idea of sending your baby away to the wilds can be scary, it is ultimately good for your child.
The American Camp Association did a study on the value of summer camp. Independently, campers, parents, and camp staff reported camper growth in independence, self-confidence, and self-assuredness. Ninety-three percent of campers reported that camp allowed them to meet and become friends with people who are from different backgrounds. Seventyfour percent of campers reported that they did things that they were afraid to do at first. Seventy percent of parents reported that their child gained selfconfidence at camp. I was fortunate to go to summer camp in the mountains of New Mexico. The ponderosa-scented air was crisp, and the snow melt-swollen Pecos River was frigid. While Brush Ranch is no longer operating, the community of campers and staff is strong: we have reunions every five years, and our Facebook group is very active. I reached out to members of the group to ask how going to camp affected their lives. Every one of my campmates agrees that going to summer camp allowed us to make friends and experience activities outside of our normal lives. Many echoed what I feel: going to camp allowed us to be our real selves. In school, we felt the need to dissemble. The pressure to “fit in” to a certain peer group can be overwhelmingly stressful. At camp, children can relax and be who they really are. The realization that people like the “real you” is incredibly liberating. Another benefit of camp is the independence it fosters. Camp counselors have a lot of campers to look after, and they can’t do everything for everyone. Because their parents are not with them, children learn to take responsibility for themselves and their actions. My older daughter learned how to tie her shoes at zoo camp because the
WE OFFER PARENTS PEACE OF MIND BY PARTNERING WITH THEM TO PREPARE STUDENTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL.
counselor could not tie all 10 preschoolers’ shoes. At Brush Ranch, we were expected to keep our cabins clean, so I learned how to scrub a toilet, mop a floor, and make hospital corners on a bunk bed. Many of my former campmates mentioned the experiences that camp afforded that they did not have at home. Children from big cities seldom get to go on trail rides to alpine meadows or fly fish for trout while hip-deep in a rushing river. My younger daughter fell in love with pottery and Japanese calligraphy at TCU’s art day camp. My older daughter studied marine biology in the salt marshes of South Carolina. Camp can expand a child’s horizons in ways that school, with its heavy emphasis on test results, cannot. Perhaps most importantly, camp allows children to just be children. Yes, there are expectations placed upon them at camp. They have to learn to live with strangers and resolve minor conflicts that may arise. They have to learn that their every want will not be accommodated. But without the pressure of grades and the expectations of family, teachers, and peer groups, campers are free to simply live and soak up every adventure and learning opportunity. Simply put, they can enjoy being kids. One final benefit of sending your child to camp is that camp friendships are deep and long. Spending time with peers who are interested in and engaged in new activities opens children’s minds and hearts. The people I went to camp with almost four decades ago are scattered across the country, and yet, when we get together, it’s like no time has passed. Our lives are varied and diverse, but we are the people that camp allowed us to become, and we are friends for life.
Helping Fort Worth Sleep Better for Over 30 Years Custom Beds I Factory Price I Texas Made
St. Paul Lutheran School graduates are confident, academically strong, grounded in Christian faith, and know they are well-loved.
ST. PAUL
LUTHERAN SCHOOL 1800 W. Freeway (I-30 at Summit) Fort Worth, TX 76102 817.332.2281 | sharingnewlifespls.com
St. Paul Lutheran School admits students of any race, color, or national and ethnic origin.
Solve the Dream Bed Maze and Receive an Additional
10% Off Your Purchase!
900 S. Haltom Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76117 I 817-834-1648 I citymattressfactory.com
A FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT TO EXPERIENCE BEAUTY: FORT WORTH PERFORMANCES FOR AUTISM by Edward Brown
Clarinetists Stas Chernyshev and Ann Hung had just finished warming up when their eager audience arrived. Around a dozen 2-to-5-year-old children walked by, gazing in wonder. Many of the kids were barefoot. One small girl carried a brown teddy bear that was easily twice her size. As the young audience members settled in at Hope Center for Autism’s activity room, Chernyshev started the afternoon program.
audiences, Chernyshev and Hung play within a limited sonic range. Other aspects of their outreach programs are designed to work with kids in general, meaning each musical excerpt is generally only two to three minutes long.
For busy parents who are working and raising an autistic child, planning concert outings may not always be within reach.
“The reason I bring [Chernyshev and Hung] in is One activity seemed especially engaging that early because everyone deserves to have exposure to such afternoon. The two guest musicians involved their audience beautiful music,” she said. “I’m always looking for things in a music writing activity. Hung asked the children whether that will bring them joy. How many of those kids have the piece they composed should be loud or soft, happy or ever heard a clarinet? Providing them with different “We’ll start by playing some music,” he said before sad, and slow or fast. Not surprisingly, most requests were for experiences is important to me.” launching into a jazz duet by composer Bob Zottola. happy, loud, and fast music. As each child picked a musical Chernyshev and Hung plan to slowly but steadily grow The intermingling jazzy melodies set many of the kids direction, Hung circled the corresponding word on a small the program throughout the city. The outreach program to swaying. When they finished, the room of teachers and poster she brought that faced the children. Chernyshev then will be managed through Opus Nova, a chamber music students gave a hearty applause. Chernyshev and Hung created a tune based on their requests. The kids seemed to series the two founded last year. Reaching autistic students (who are married) then introduced themselves before get a kick out of it. Bach, Telemann, Pachelbel, and few other within Fort Worth’s public schools will allow more students giving a primer on their woodwind instrument. Chernyshev composers were introduced before the program ended. to emotionally connect to the rich legacy of classical music. demonstrated how the clarinet can play high, low, fast, and “Thank you for composing with us,” Chernyshev told his slow. Hung followed by introducing two concepts to the The afternoon performance marked the third time Hope audience just as they were beginning to fidget. onlooking kids. Center for Autism students have heard the new program. Susan Wood, Hope Center for Autism executive director, Whenever the clarinettists have a new program, Wood said “All the music we will play today is either call and told me that the children at her nonprofit have always she’ll pencil in time for their visit. response or cannon,” Hung said before describing the responded well to Fort Worth Performances for Autism. musical terms. “With a cannon, one person starts while the “These two musicians have a real heart for this,” she said. While the regimented academic and therapy programs at other waits. Then they play together. Who wants to play a the center leave scarce downtime for the kids there, Wood game? I’ll clap something and then I want you to clap the always welcomes activities that enrich and add beauty to rhythm back.” the lives of her students. Finding the right guest artists takes The duo alternated songs with activities over the an understanding of the unique needs of autistic children, next 30 minutes, maintaining a brisk pace that kept the she said. onlookers’ attention. The outreach program, Fort Worth “You may have noticed that when we started today, Performances for Autism, developed out of a love of several kids covered their ears,” she said. Chernyshev and working with kids who are diagnosed with autism, Hung “stayed within the kids’ [auditory] comfort level. The Chernyshev and Hung told me. The two taught autistic kids knew they were in a safe place.” children in their previous home of New York City. That experience has given them an understanding of how to Beyond any educational and therapeutic benefits that best interact with the youngsters’ special needs. Autistic may come from hearing classical music, Wood believes children are particularly sensitive to loud sounds and every child has a fundamental right to experience beauty. bright lights, for example. When performing for these
C O S M E T I C • I M P L A N T • F A M I LY D E N T I S T R Y
Take your best smile with while making lifelong memories.
www.hulendental.com As your family prepares to embark on a summer filled with adventure, make sure you bring your best smiles with you. With more than 60 years of combined experience and compassionate care, our team’s approach to denistry has been helping families across Fort Worth smile. Great for the whole family, we look forward to seeing you soon!
817.292.5957 | 4900 Overton Ridge Blvd, Suite 112, Fort Worth, TX 76132
F O R G I N G
A
N E W
FUTURE FUTURE by Sarah Angle
Life is about relationships, explains Stacy Agee, Director of Communications and Development at faith-based Fortress Youth Development Center. When it comes to ending generational poverty, establishing and learning how to maintain relationships is pivotal. Fortress Youth Development Center puts relationships at the center of everything it does. That focal point is what makes it different from other youth development organizations in the city, and it’s what makes its families stay the course and break the cycle. Madeworthy Magazine sat down with Stacy to talk children, poverty, families, faith and love.
photos by Ashley Rutland Photography
19-ZR-6729 2019 Preschool Print_Madeworthy_11x8.5_MECH.pdf
MW: What is generational poverty and how does Fortress work to combat it? Stacy Agee: Generational poverty means a family has lived in poverty for two generations or more. There are so many hidden rules within generational poverty that it’s hard for people to understand it if you’re not living that life or know somebody who is. We serve families living in Fort Worth’s Historic Southside, including kids from Van Zandt-Guinn Elementary School, which is one of the worstperforming elementary schools in the state, according to the nonprofit Children at Risk. Eighty-four percent of the families we serve live below the poverty line, which means they have a household income of just over $25,000 a year for a family of four. We work with 150 children. So yes, the need is great in Fort Worth, especially in the areas we serve. MW: How does poverty affect brain development in children? SA with Dani Bartells, Fortress’ Development & Outcomes Coordinator: That’s a complicated question without a simple answer. What we do know is that poverty is a form of trauma. Continuous trauma causes biochemical changes that affect everything about a child’s development. For example, many children from poverty have underdeveloped self-regulatory skills. Their need for external regulation as a young child — to be soothed when upset, to be fed when hungry, to have tender eye contact with an available caregiver — wasn’t met for any number of reasons, so they didn’t learn appropriate calming techniques or effective negotiating tools… many of our kids operate out of the fear center of their brains, and when you’re 1 afraid, 2/11/19 you 6:06 can’tPMlearn. You can’t play.
You can’t grow. You can only survive. One thing Fortress does for its kids is to show them alternatives. For example, we take kids on campus tours to TCU. These visits don’t make kids think they could go to TCU, it makes them think they could go to college. You don’t know what’s possible if you haven’t been exposed to it. MW: What’s the coolest thing Fortress is doing for kids today? SA: In 2016, 80 percent of our third graders were reading at or above grade level. That’s pretty amazing and so important to the future of a child. Third grade is the year that determines a child’s trajectory in school. If kids don’t know how to read by then, they get behind, doubling the likelihood of dropping out… But the biggest thing we do is relationships. We require parents to engage. They have to attend two conference each year and at least 12 hours of parenting classes. That’s the minimum. Most of our parents far exceed that requirement. MW: Fortress’ Early Learning Center program provides a full-time preschool. How does early learning impact children and families?
SA: Research shows us that in stable households, children ages 1 to 4 have vastly different exposure to language across the classes. Children in welfare are exposed to 13 million words during those first years, while children in working class homes are exposed to 26 million, and those in professional households, 45 million. That means that children in poverty often start behind their peers in other classes… When you start behind, you tend to stay behind. That’s why we focus so heavily on preschool — to help give our youngest learners a strong foundation for success. And it’s why we value our mentoring program, which provides consistent role models who invest in the hope and future stories of the kids we love and serve. “I think people need to know that Fortress isn’t only an after-school program, it’s like a second family,” said Michelle Smith, a single mother of five who’s been working with Fortress for over a decade and is the nonprofit’s newest employee. “Once they get to know your kids, they love on your kids. They try to get a personal bond with every child, because Fortress not only believes in education, it believes in families.”
Learn more about becoming a mentor through the Ignite program, donating, or participating in upcoming events by visiting fortressydc.org and on social media @FortressYDC.
Zoo Preschool pairs animals with education for a one-of-a kind experience you can only get at the Fort Worth Zoo. Your 3- to 5-year-old will enjoy learning all about the Patterns and Colors in the Wild through interactive learning activities that feature animals. From Zoo hikes to Zoo crafts, tons of fun (and oodles of animals) await your little one!
Learn more! FORTWORTHZOO.ORG/PRESCHOOL
REGISTRATION OPENS
Jax’s grades began drastically deteriorating because he couldn’t read his own notes. And his struggle with writing caused great anxiety and never revealed his true ability. But then, he found Hill School. Now, he’s writing a much happier story.
schedule a tour findyourplace.hillschool.org 817.92 3 .9482
Currently accepting new students, but hurry, some class sizes are limited.
ADVERTISEMENT
BRIGHT IDEAS
CASA volunteer Jenifer Halvey when working with foster children asks, “what is the best solution for these children, and how do we get there?” Recently Jenifer helped a severely abused child, 5-month-old Chloe, find stability while in foster care. Jenifer was the catalyst in connecting the child’s family to community support, and now Chloe is safely healing in a permanent home with her siblings. CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Tarrant County advocates for abused and neglected children in our community. To learn how you can change the trajectory of a vulnerable child’s life, visit www.speakupforachild.org or call (817) 877-5891.
A GUIDE TO PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS
www.Instagram.com/KBBPhoto/ 512.569.4181
Kim Burnstad, KBB Photography With a background in newspaper, magazine, and catalog photography, Kim Burnstad has a wealth of experience at her fingertips. Burnstad says the most important things in her life are family, fun and photography. Therefore, she has shifter her focus (pun intended) to photographing weddings, families and small businesses. She feels that quality prints always feel better than screenshots on a phone of laptop, and great photographs become family heirlooms. KBB Photography is running a special for brides who book in 2019. They will receive a free engagement shoot as well as a free in person consultation.
www.FortWorth.Fit4Mom.com BeccaGraham@Fit4Mom.com
FIT4MOM As a company, FIT4MOM stands for Strength in Motherhood™. By providing all moms with the support, community and self-care they need during pregnancy, postpartum and throughout every stage of their motherhood journey. We believe these moms will raise healthy, strong families. The engaging Stroller Strides and Stroller Barre programs, for example, utilize your baby’s stroller with your baby in it. The FIT4MOM fitness and wellness programs help moms regain strength in body, mind, and spirit. So, whether you're pregnant with your first or an empty nester, there's a place for you in the FIT4MOM Fort Worth Village.
YOU HAVE A LIFE, WE DESIGN THE KITCHEN FOR IT.
THEKITCHENSOURCE.NET DA L L A S 2 1 4 . 7 4 1 .1 9 1 2
F O RT W O RT H 8 1 7.7 3 1 . 4 2 9 9
SOUTHLAKE 8 1 7. 8 5 7. 4 0 0 1
www.GatheringHope.net
www.OrganizedNest.com
www.LettuceCookGourmet.com
Gathering Hope, a non-profit ministry is celebrating its first full year of serving mothers who have survived miscarriage and infant loss. Co-founders Peyton Lauderdale and Carol Vantine have seen how community makes a difference in the lives of women who feel silenced, lonely or disconnected after their loss. Being a catalyst for healing is at the heart of what Gathering Hope aims to do for the mothers they serve. At their annual gathering in October women are both encouraged and given the opportunity to share their story with others who have walked the same path. At quarterly socials women can deepen new relationships in a relaxed setting and connect with resources they need to support their grieving process. Providing their clients with clutter-free closets, cabinets, garages and work spaces since 2011, The Organized Nest is Fort Worth’s leading organizational service. Comprised of a team of experts, The Organized Nest will come to your home or office and establish an easy-to-use system that fits your lifestyle and needs. They understand how important it is for spaces to be efficient, as well as aesthetically pleasing. Because they work within your budget, no project is too small or too large. Going above and beyond their service role, The Organized Nest also provides the tools and the insight to maintain this organized existence for years to come. Where do you turn when you need a great meal but you really don’t want to go to the grocery store? The same place you turn when you need a great meal but really don’t want to cook. Lettuce Cook’s chef-prepared meals provide you with a delicious meal using excellent ingredients and simple preparation instructions. It’s perfect when you know you need something to prepare tomorrow night. If, however, you need something tonight, their Gourmet-On-The-Go offerings are what you want. A perfectly prepared delicious meal, hot and ready to serve as soon as you get home. They also have a dine in menu as well as full service catering!
FORT WORTH'S
TOP TEACHERS
ALLYSON EATON
teaches Pre-AP and AP
English at Paschal High School. Eaton says, "I try to be real with my students. They know that I’m
OF 2019
not always right… and that, just like them, I’ll never stop learning. I’ve found that
Once again, we are honored to recognize Fort Worth’s oustanding educators, as chosen by Tanglewood Moms rea ders.
if I treat my class like a conversation – a give and take between all 30 of us in the room… we begin to form a community… Paschal is a public school, and our kids… come from different ethnic backgrounds, faiths, economic circumstances, and ability levels… they are better for knowing each other – better for learning from and (without really knowing it) influencing and mentoring each other, too… Once we respect each other and are truly invested in the community we’ve created, great things
RANDI WINTERSOLE, a 5th
grade applied learning teacher at J.T. Stevens Elementary, became a teacher after seeing how inspired her own children were by their teachers. She must be doing it right. When asked, her students heaped praise on her with words like “optimistic,” “compassionate,” “creative,” “smart,” “cool,” and “joyful.” Mrs. Wintersole's favorite aspect of being a teacher is watching her students mature and grow over the course of a school year. "It’s a privilege to experience such growth and how seeing they change throughout the year is hands down my favorite part of teaching."
can happen."
ELISABETH BROOKE
teaches
9th grade Humanities at I.M. Terrell Academy and embarked upon her teaching career while graduate student at Ole Miss. “I loved working with students who are at the precipice of becoming who they will be when they
BROOKE TERRY
is the Upper School chemistry
and forensics teacher at All Saints’ Episcopal School.
grow up.” Her favorite teachers were her English teachers at Paschal High School. “It’s a three-
When asked about her favorite teacher, Terry replies,
way tie between Sue Smith, Bob
“My favorite teacher is actually someone who I have
Reed, and Mary Perry... Each of them
the pleasure of teaching with, Marsha. She was
helped me to find my voice as a writer and gave
my chemistry teacher in high school and…
me what I needed (skills, knowledge, and confidence)
inspired and molded me into the learner
to excel at the next level.” On her teaching style,
and teacher I am today.” Terry’s
Brooke says, “I like to let the content lead. I’m there
interactive teaching style has her
to facilitate the discussion and the learning… I.M.
students making their own chemistry
Terrell has the greatest students, and I am privileged
book that helps “students learn
to teach them.”
organization… and at the end of the year they have created a project they are really proud of.” She loves working with her students as navigate her challenging classes. “I love that each year I
CYNDI WOODWARD,
get to meet a group of students who each have their own struggles with my class. I get to work with them
the Fine Arts Director
and Theatre teacher at Southwest Christian School, says as a new teacher, “I
closely and help them discover their strengths.”
felt a connection, an energy, with my students and realized that I was going to learn just
PAULA MADDUX is a 1st grade teacher at St. Paul Lutheran School who knew “by the time I was in the 4th grade that I wanted to become a teacher when I grew up. My… teachers had such a positive impact on me that I knew I wanted to have a career that allowed me to make a difference in the lives of children.” Her favorite aspect of being a teacher “is helping students learn to read and watching their excitement as they discover the joys of becoming a reader!” Like all great teachers, Maddux’s focus is firmly on the students. “I hope that each of my students knows they are valued and loved. My goal is to meet each student where they are and give them the tools they need to be successful.”
as much from them as they learned from me… I love to identify the moment when my students recognize that what they are doing is important and powerful. When the motivation for performance or artistic expression is purposeful beyond yourself and can move the viewer, it's magical.” About her students, Woodward says, “I believe in empowering and encouraging their smarts and their arts that lie within them… it's already there, and I am just there to facilitate getting it out and giving it voice. They know I care more about them growing wiser through our time together than I do about their artistry.”
JULIE FREY,
JULIE HANNAN, a kindergarten teacher at
Middle School Life
Tanglewood Elementary, strives to create an environment
Sciences teacher at
of kindness where her students feel safe and happy. For
Trinity Valley School, says
Hannan, teaching is in her DNA. “My mother was a first-
designing “an innovative
grade teacher. She taught at the elementary school I
curriculum that shares my
attended... Becoming a teacher just seemed like the natural
passion of living organisms and
thing to do.” Mrs. Hannan says her
the scientific process is the most rewarding part
favorite aspect of being a teacher
of being an educator. If I can make a connection
is the children. “Everything is
between my classroom and the outside world, I
new and exciting to them.
have created a lifelong learner… I love to watch
They love school, and their
their excitement as they release monarch butterflies
friends. They walk in the
that they raised, gently weigh their chicks, or
door every morning with a
carefully complete dissections. As my students
new story about a lost tooth
grow into young adults and reach out to me about
or something that happened
how much they loved life science, it inspires me to
at a soccer game. They have
embrace each year!”
so much joy at this age. It is very contagious.”
DR. MARK MARTIN, 5th grade Humanities teacher at Fort Worth Country Day School, is passionate about his profession. “Without a doubt, teaching is a calling. It’s a noble profession, one that necessitates a compassionate heart and an infectious passion and enthusiasm for learning… teaching is about the need to inspire students, to build them up, help them discover their potential, and motivate them to exceed their dreams.” His favorite teachers were those who “loved me and genuinely cared about me. They believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself… great teachers genuinely care deeply about their students and want each to succeed, which motivates the students to work hard. It’s about giving of self in order to benefit and watch
LISA MAY, First Level teacher at Starpoint School at TCU, says that “school felt more like a family than an institution. I always felt loved, valued, and had a voice when I was at school. My teachers made a difference in my life and inspired me to be just like them.” When asked about her favorite thing about being a teacher, May says, “I love the fact that I can foster within my students a desire to learn, the courage to challenge themselves and explore. The way that their eyes light up in response to understanding fuels my passion for teaching… it is an honor and privilege to get to be of part of all of their journeys.”
others succeed.”
LORI SLOAN,
5th grade teacher and
Elementary Lead at Key School, demonstrates a clear passion for her profession. “The most wonderful part of teaching is bringing the child into the learning experience. When I am teaching a lesson and the students are engaged to the point of not wanting to stop, I am ecstatic! When they are walking down the hall talking about what they just learned,
EILEEN BAIN, middle school science teacher at The Hill School, “was born into a family of teachers. My mother, several
my heart smiles.” Her role model as a
of my aunts, cousins, and my sister
teacher was “Mrs. Stricklin, my Career
are all teachers. Education was revered in
Tech teacher. She took the time to work
my home… so my first teaching job had me instructing my
with me… I will always remember how she
dolls.” Her favorite aspect of teaching is “the challenge of
always advocated for me. May I always be Mrs.
figuring out effective strategies to help a struggling student
Stricklin to my students.”
find his/her strengths in learning. Every child is unique, with different talents and struggles. The trick is to find the key to unlock the door and help a student walk into a world full of amazing stories, facts, wonder, awe, and excitement, the world of education… I may have to sing, dance, draw, color, or invent in order to unlock the different doors of my students, but therein lies the challenge and joy in teaching.“
by William Wise Ph o t o g ra p hy b y Ki m Bur ns t a d , K B B P h o t o gra p h y
F O R T W O R T H R E A L E S TAT E
5117 Cantera Way | 76126 |$1,299,000
3705 Potomac | 76107 | $1,099,000
4062 Mattison | 76107 | $799,000
joseph berkes
joseph berkes
joseph berkes
joseph@williamstrew.com 817.266.1355
joseph@williamstrew.com 817.266.1355
joseph@williamstrew.com 817.266.1355
4304 Ridglea Country Club Drive | 76126 | $450,000
Flying ~A~ Ranch | 110 Acres | Erath Co. | $3,800,000
1300 Herron Bend Rd. | 240 Acres | Young Co. | $4,485,000
Christa Holbert
allen crumley
allen crumley
christa@leaguere.com 214.734.0285
allen@williamstrew.com 817.862.4459
allen@williamstrew.com 817.862.4459
9208 Ravenswood Rd | Granbury | 76049 | $448,500
6269 Trinity Creek Drive | 76179 | $259,900
2133 Park Place Ave | 76110 | SOLD
Carley J. Moore
Carley J. Moore
Corey Bearden
cmoore@briggsfreeman.com 817.734.8185
cmoore@briggsfreeman.com 817.734.8185
corey@leaguere.com 817.889.5032
2336 W Rosedale St South | 76110 | $389,000
2653 Stadium Drive | 76109 | $524,900
14104 Cross Oaks | 76008 | $519,000
Corey Bearden
Rick Wegman
John Giordano
corey@leaguere.com 817.889.5032
rickw@gwwrealestate.com 817.584.7033
johng@gwwrealestate.com 817.991.1862
Lose the cover up. Get the body you’ve always wanted and look amazing this summer! We offer BodyTite, a minimally invasive procedure delivering surgical-like results with rapid recovery. Come in and receive 25% off your first area! Mention this ad and your consultation fee is waived.
www.DrSteelePlasticSurgery.com 817.731.5330 | info@drsteeleplasticsurgery.com | @drsteeleplasticsurgery
THIS SUMMER WE ARE OFFERING
STEAM CAMP & B-SHARP MUSIC CLASSES
NOW ENROLLING GRADES K-12 FOR THE KEY SUMMER PROGRAM.
JUNE 10-28, 2019
TO LEARN MORE, VISIT WWW.KEYSCHOOLFORTWORTH.ORG
HELPING CHILDREN FIND THEIR KEY TO SUCCESS
CRISTO REY FORT WORTH: PLANTING THE SEEDS OF S T U D E N T S' S U C C E S S College preparatory schools consistently rank high in sending their graduates to elite colleges and universities, which in turn give their graduates an advantage in their post-university lives and careers. Unfortunately, for many families, a college preparatory education is out of their reach, even with the help of generous scholarships. According to the latest information from the U.S. Census Bureau, 19.3% of the population of Fort Worth lives below the federal poverty line and cannot afford an expensive college preparatory school. This is where the Cristo Rey network of schools steps in. Founded in Chicago by John P. Foley, S. J., in 1996, the Cristo Rey school model is an innovative, almost revolutionary approach to secondary education. Combining a faith-based, college preparatory education with a corporate work study program, Cristo Rey schools give young people of limited income the opportunity to succeed both in college and the corporate world after college, thereby breaking the cycle of poverty. In 2018, 75 students matriculated as the founding class of Cristo Rey Fort Worth at Our Mother of Mercy, the 35th school in the Cristo Rey network. Each Cristo Rey school must be sponsored by either the governing Catholic diocese or a religious order and must complete a feasibility study. Cristo Rey Fort Worth (CRFW) was sponsored by the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth. After the feasibility
study was completed, the diocese donated the historic Our Mother of Mercy school to be used as the school’s first campus. Founded in 1930 by the Holy Ghost Sister, Our Mother of Mercy (OMM) was the oldest African American Catholic school west of the Mississippi until its closing. The OMM alumni association (which includes some of the Tuskegee Airmen) is still very active and has become invested in the success of CRFW. As I walked into the school, small groups of students dressed in traditional private school uniforms complimented by blazers and ties passed me on their way to the buses which would take them to their various jobs. The students were smiling and laughing, but there was little of the horseplay and rough housing that I have come to expect from high school freshmen. (I’m the mother of a high school freshman; her friends are a high-spirited and loud group.) Every of these students said hello to me, looking me directly in the eye and smiling. It was an extremely impressive introduction to the school. To make a college preparatory education affordable, all students work 5 days a month for a local business. And they are expected to really work. As Dani Ray Barton, Director of the Corporate Work Study program at CRFW, said, “This is not babysitting; this is a real job. The student is a member of the team.” The list of corporate work study partners is a list of some of Fort Worth’s most notable companies. Ninety percent are for profit; non-profit partners are underwritten by other companies. CRFW’s students are working for companies such as Texas Health
Resources, Higginbotham, the Botanic Research Institute of Texas, Catholic Charities of Fort Worth, and Stromberg Investment Group. Each student signs a 10-month contract with their employer. Each corporate partner directly employs the students. Paychecks are deposited into a tuition account, and families are expected to make up the rest of the $1200 tuition. However, there is a sliding scale of payments based on family income. This allows children from any socioeconomic background to matriculate at CRFW. How does CRFW prepare a gaggle of fourteen year olds to work in a corporate environment? Before school starts, each student is required to participate in a three-week-long corporate boot camp. Called GRIT (Grace, Responsibility, Integrity, and Tenacity), this program teaches students everything from how to shake hands with co-workers or fill out a time card to how to make a three-minute elevator presentation to a company executive. At the end of the successful completion of GRIT, each student is given their tie and blazer, which they wear to their jobs. To celebrate the founding class’ successful completion of GRIT and announce their students’ corporate work study placements, CRFW held a “draft day” ceremony at Hope Farms. “We expected maybe one or two hundred people to come,” Barton said. “We had over four hundred; many of our partners brought their entire offices to show their support our students.” Adding to the excitement, CRFW got Texas Rangers’ announcer John Rhadigan to emcee the event and the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders and the Dallas Maverick ManiAACs hip hop dance troup to perform. “The students got to see from the beginning that these companies are really invested in them,” Barton said. “They got to see that the companies believe in them even before they meet them.” Barton, who is the school’s point of contact for all corporate work study partners, told me that the school is now planning their first annual Presentation Day. On April 12, all CRFW’s students will go to their companies instead of coming to school. Each team of students will give a 30-minute presentation to the companies on their work study experience. This will give each student an opportunity to see what other students who work for the same corporate partner experience, and it will give each corporate partner the opportunity to see the impact on each of these children.
In addition to paying for their education, the corporate work study program offers support to the students. Supervisors must fill out evaluations, giving honest feedback to the students on their work performance. Working with a supervisor is beneficial to both the student and the supervisor. Many of the students’ immediate supervisors are new to mentoring; shepherding the Cristo Rey students gives them valuable management experience. The students, possibly for the first time in their lives, have an adult who is not a teacher or a family member who is invested in their success. The students are encouraged while being challenged, and the
confidence they gain from doing a good job at their work translates into success in the classroom. Speaking of academics, I wondered how, with so much emphasis placed on work study, how do CRFW’s academics measure up? Barton assured me that the school’s academic curriculum is rigorous. “Across the Cristo Rey network, 100% of graduates were accepted to college, but, and this is the more impressive statistic, 92% actually went to college.” The majority of these graduates are the first person in their family to attend college. According to the school, 2.5 times as many Cristo Rey graduates complete college compared to low-income peers from other schools.
Because so many of their students will be firstgeneration college students, Cristo Rey understand that their college guidance program must be comprehensive and extensive. The program starts in ninth grade and involves the whole family. To this end, Cristo Rey alumni come back as mentors, giving current students yet another adult providing support and guidance. “Somebody gave them [the alumni] a hand up, so they want to give someone else a hand up,“ Barton said. CRFW’s founding class is drawn from over 50 middle schools across Fort Worth. They represent a range of academic ability. According to Barton, “the teachers are not just experts in their chosen field, they are experts in reaching and teaching students of all levels.” While many students were top in their middle school classes, many were “average” but got lost in the crowd. These students are now blossoming at CRFW. Although all Cristo Rey schools are sponsored by a Catholic diocese or religious order, students are not required to be Catholic. The education at Cristo Rey is based on Catholic social teaching, and the school emphasizes service to others. According to Barton, “we want them to go to college and become, say, accountants, but we want them to become good accountants, to be good people.” Fort Worth’s response to CRFW has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic. More companies are signing up to be corporate work study partners, and the next class of students is expected to be full. (The school has capped each class at a maximum of 125 students.) In fact, the school is anticipating outgrowing the Our Mother of Mercy campus sooner rather than later, and the search is on for a bigger campus. If you are interested in learning more about CRFW, Barton invites you to a Lunch and Learn session. Every month, a panel of students give a presentation to potential corporate partners, underwriters, and community organizations. Each CRFW student will present at a Lunch and Learn at least once a year. The combination of a college preparatory education and a corporate work study program gives Cristo Rey Fort Worth students the opportunity to succeed in an increasingly competitive and selective university and post-university environments. Education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty in our city, and CRFW offers that education to those who otherwise would not be able to afford it. “We as humans naturally want to help each other,” Barton said. “And Cristo Rey gives our community the opportunity to do that.”
AB OU T T H E R I V ER D I ST RI CT The River District is a locally-cultivated community in West Fort Worth along White Settlement Road, just a quick five minute drive northwest from the West 7th area. This unique district is completely anchored by the Trinity River providing walkable access to miles of scenic hike and bike paths.
come and visit Designed to cultivate the full potential of a culturally, historically, and naturally rich area, featuring restaurants, retail, walkable communities, as well as access to the Trinity River.
C OMING IN 2019
5 New Restaurants • 1 Luxury Pet Resort 21,000 S.F. of Retail • 40,000 S.F. of Office Space
find your home An inclusive neighborhood comprised of various living options: single family homes, apartments, and townhomes.
C OMING IN 2019
700+ Apartment Homes • 100+ Single Family Homes and Townhomes
YOU WON’ T HAVE TO GO FA R FOR AN Y THING
W EST FORT WORT H’S N EW EST HOT SPOT
# 2 FAST EST G ROW I NG Z I P C ODE IN TA R R A N T C OU NT Y
BRE ATHING L IF E INTO IT S NATU R AL G E O G R APHY
Cu ltu re Map For t Wor t h
For t Wor t h St ar- Tel e g ram
For t Wor t h Mag a z i ne
D a l l as O bs er ver
W W W. R I V E R D I S T R I C T F W. C O M
|
@ R I V E R D I S T R IC T F W
®
P.O. Box 101704 Fort Worth, TX 76185