December 2015

PLUS: Downtown Development ... AISD Update ... Bankers You Need to Know

December 2015

your community • your magazine

Happy Holidays!

Serving Arlington, Mansfield, Kennedale and SW Grand Prairie arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Contents

December 2015 • Volume 2, Issue 12

Highlights 22 Banister is the best

Jeff Banister, the Rangers’ first-year skipper, is named American League Manager of the Year.

24 A home run for the home team The Texas Rangers’ community support programs recently received a big boost.

26 Home for the holidays

Here are seven local celebrations that show how the area really gets into the spirit this time of year.

22

28 An independent Claus

Jerry Miller, also known as Santa, loves to share yuletide cheer with the children.

36 Colors for Caring

On the Cover As we wind up one year and look to the next, the staff at Arlington Today wishes all our readers and advertisers the happiest of holidays. The beautiful packages on our cover were provided by our talented friends at The Container Store at the Arlington Highlands.

26 38

Starting Line ... 10 This ‘n Data ... 12 Around Town ... 20 Scene ... 21, 55, 63, 71 Style ... 32 Tennis Tip ... 68 Community Notebook ... 68 Bulletin Board ... 72 Health & Fitness ... 74 Sights/Sounds ... 76 Speaking of Sports ... 78 Itinerary ... 80 Finish Line ... 82

There’s no skyline, but the city’s core will soon be pleasantly surprising.

42 A tribute to dad

46 Bankers you need to know

Meet some of the local people who take care of you and your money.

52 They make the hotel look swell How a Mansfield-based hospitality marketing company runs the gamut to make sure clients are well served.

56 Home SWEET! Home

Stephen Zimmer shares a tour of his house, which is holiday-riffic this month.

64 Earning an ‘A-plus’

56 ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

38 Downtown rising

Craig Davis and ‘The Red Truck’ carry on a longtime family tradition.

Departments

8

How the Mansfield ISD superintendent is pioneering a district-wide project to raise cancer awareness.

The schools in north Arlington – and the surrounding businesses – are trending upward.

Robyn Coffey

Micah Coffey

Kristina Anderson

Terry Newton

Marilyn Newton

817.521.6621 rcoffey@briggsfreeman.com

817.480.2569 mcoffey@briggsfreeman.com

817.229.2615 kanderson@briggsfreeman.com

817.980.0459 tnewton@briggsfreeman.com

817.846.7600 mnewton@briggsfreeman.com

Starting Line EXECUTIVE BOARD

The ghost of Christmas past Why a car with cruise control might make a wonderful gift this year

S

o, there we were in the Yalemobile … oh, a few years back … driving as a family to pay our annual holiday visit to my sainted grandmother in Wichita Falls, Texas. At the time, this vehicle of choice at Youngblood Manor was an Oldsmobile Cutlass Sierra, with bench seats in the front and back, both wide enough to comfortably fit three passengers – which was appropriate, given that I am patriarch to a family of six.

In the front, I was driving, my wife Susan was sitting on the passenger side, and 7-year-old son Daniel was sandwiched between us. In the back, our oldest son Matt sat near one window, second son Aaron was perched near the other, and Hannah, our “baby,” was buckled into some sort of kid seat in the middle.

As we drove over a hill about halfway there, we were greeted by the sight of a highway patrol officer standing in the middle of the road several hundred yards away, waving cars to the shoulder. Presumably these were speeding cars, because his partner was already on the other shoulder, standing near his vehicle with a radar gun aimed at the hill’s apex.

A quick glance at the speedometer let me know Editor that the original patrolman’s next wave wasn’t going Yale Youngblood to be directed toward the car behind me, and I pulled into the right lane and started to slow down.

“Drive at him and scare him, Dad,” Matt, roughly 11 at this time, said from the backseat. “Just take off,” Aaron suggested, also from the backseat. “They won’t catch you.”

I will say, hand to Bible, that I never considered Matt’s advice, but I have to admit that I pondered Aaron’s for a fleeting moment before moving to the shoulder to join a caravan of about five cars found to have run afoul of the law.

When the first officer approached the car he made the obligatory “Can I see your driver’s license and proof of insurance?” speech, then asked if I knew why I was being stopped.

“I’m going to guess you thought I was speeding,” I said.

“Yes, sir,” he responded. “You were clocked at 78 miles per hour in a 65-miles-perhour zone.”

“With all due respect, officer,” I countered, “I don’t think I was going that fast.”

It was at this point that Daniel felt the urge to join the conversation.

“Yeah, you were, Dad. I was looking at the speedometer,” he said. “You were going at least 78.”

For the record, I didn’t hire Dan to represent me in court over this matter.

yale@arlingtontoday.com

Visit arlingtontoday.com, like us on Facebook

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

and follow us on Twitter

Executive Publisher Judy M. Rupay CEO Richard Greene

EDITORIAL Editor Yale Youngblood Contributing Editor Sarah Martinez Sports Columnist John Rhadigan Style Editor Tricia Schwartz Website & Social Media Director Rhonda Aghamalian Contributing Graphic Artists Susan Darovich, Susan Richtman Contributing Writers Corey Callaway, Donna Darovich, Sue Stevens Durbec, Michele Duskin, Kenneth Perkins, Alexandra Plancarte, Toni Randle-Cook Contributing Photographers Gary Coots, Dwayne Lee, Heather Lee, Bruce Maxwell, Bob Pruitt

SALES/CIRCULATION Business Manager Bridget Dean Sales Managers Laura DiStefano, Amy Lively, Andrea Proctor, Debbie Roach, Tricia Schwartz Distribution Manager Sam Thomas

PRODUCTION Production Manager Susan Darovich ARLINGTON TODAY is published monthly. Copyright 2015 Arlington Today, Inc., 1000 Ballpark Way, Suite 308, Arlington, TX 76011. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without permission of the publisher. The inclusion of advertising is considered a service to readers and is not an endorsement of products.

Basic subscriptions are $33.95 for 12 issues (price includes tax and shipping). E-mail subscriptions@arlingtontoday.com

• Phone number: (817) 303-3304

Sanford Spa Holiday Special

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This full day package includes a 60 minute massage, Derm Renewal Facial, peppermint spa pedicure, shampoo and blow-dry and a delicious Spa Lunch prepared by our executive chef and includes a glass of wine or champagne. $285

Call 817-277-0115 to order or visit www.sanfordspa.com and click on specials.

The Sanford Spa & Salon 501 North Center Street

• Arlington, Texas 76011 • 817-277-0115

www.sanfordspa.com

This ‘n Data

Nicholle Rae

Photo: nicholleraemusic.com

Arlington’s Rae making a splash in Nashville (already) NICHOLLE RAE only moved to Nashville in June, but the Arlington native is already making her mark on the country music scene with two new songs, “Fireball” and “What Do You Want From Me.” Rae describes her music as fun while at the same time signifying deep meaning. “Country music is about stories,” she said. “Some of those stories can be meaningful and still be fun. My music will always reflect who I am.”

Rae said her biggest influence comes from fellow Texan, longtime country music star Miranda Lambert. “I admire her energy on stage and her songwriting skills,” Rae said. Soon, folks might be saying the same thing about her.

For more, visit Rae’s website, nicholleraemusic.com.

Healthcare Project created to assist teens at the BGCA THE HEALTHCARE PROJECT is an initiative to assist teens at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington in enhancing their education on key issues that impact their health and well being, introduce them to healthcare professionals, discuss career opportunities and provide educational tours to see general operations.

Physicians, healthcare administrators, nurses, elder care administrators and other professionals have formed a collaboration with the Boys & Girls Clubs to connect the children in our community, especially those

who need it the most, to healthcare professions, industry opportunities, professional practitioners, and career opportunities.

The initial plan is to run a pilot program at one of the five Clubs in Arlington, then work with leaders at Boys & Girls Clubs on expanding the project.

Participating physicians include: Carl Horton, Darien Bradford, Kathy Conyers, Tho Luong, Camelia Mitchell, Sukhoon Yoon, Antonio Rozier, Charles Willis and Ray Lewis.

For more: (817) 275-6551.

Photos: Southern Flair Photography

Club president Mark Tatum (left) looks on as David Swatzell introduces the Dallas Wings to the DFW Metroplex.

Taking flight

WNBA’s Wings will play at UTA THE DALLAS WINGS were introduced last month by Full Court Partners, LLC, the ownership group for the WNBA team relocating to the Arlington for the 2016 season.

The new name and team logo were revealed at a news conference and reception at College Park Center on the campus of the University of Texas Arlington, which will serve as the team’s home court in 2016.

Season ticket packages were also introduced as part of the event, and more information will be available on the team’s official website, dallaswingsbasketball.com, or by calling (817) 469-9464.

QUOTEBOOK: WINNING STRATEGIES FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS ... ”Of course, you have to do the basics: work very hard, seek opportunities to learn. But the reality remains that women have to manage a different set of expectations. A woman also has to be twice as good and work twice as hard ... To be truly successful in business, a woman has to have the fortitude to believe she is entitled to what she wants, without apologizing to anyone – including herself.” – Sharen Wilson, criminal district attorney, Tarrant County 12

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

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This ‘n Data

A bandage breakthrough THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS ARLINGTON is collaborating with an interdisciplinary and medical team of renowned researchers to create the Sensing, Monitoring And Release of Therapeutics, or SMART, bandage system that can monitor and cure wounds in real time.

Weidong Zhou, professor of electrical engineering, is the principal investigator on a $100,000 grant from the Texas Medical Research Collaborative, which will fund the research.

“The SMART Bandage will be a flexible, portable tool that a doctor can place over a patient’s wound,” said Zhou, who is a Fellow of SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics. “Besides giving the patient medicine in real time, the tool also will be non-invasive to the patient. It can eliminate bulky devices that are used now. We hope the SMART Bandage will ease patients’ pain and help their healing.”

Here’s what Heartis Arlington will look like.

Center of attention CADDIS, A NATIONAL healthcare real estate firm, is developing and will own a 67,000-square foot, one-story, 81-unit assisted living and memory care community that will open at 3424 W. Interstate 20 in the spring of 2016. According to Caddis CEO Jason Signor, the center will have and be an ideal home.

“The Heartis Arlington community will be surrounded by extensive greenspace and beautiful, established neighborhoods, including the affluent ‘enclave city’ of Dalworthington Gardens,” he said. “It also will be easy to access from Interstate 20 and a nearby park-and-ride station. In addition, it will be in close proximity to world-class healthcare services, including the 213-bed HCA Medical Center of Arlington. This location will provide the best of all worlds for the residents, their families and visitors.”

Jud Jacobs, Caddis senior vice president of development, said the new Heartis Arlington will be a welcome addition to the community. “In addition to all of the amenities and beautiful surroundings, residents can take advantage of a host of special activities and receive assistance from experienced, caring staff,” Jacobs said. “If you or your family member is at a place in their life where they need assistance, Heartis Arlington will be a great place to live – a warm, nurturing environment where they can live life to the fullest.”

3 Scoops ...

1. I want MyArlingtonTV ... MyArlingtonTV, which

can be found on Time Warner Cable channel 16 and AT&T U-verse channel 99, continues to add programming for residents in The American Dream City. The city’s office of communication currently has five different programs for you to check out, offering people news and information, as well as personal stories of the hard-working members of the Arlington community. Here are five shows for you to check out: Weekend Buzz, MyArlingtonTV News, Ask Arlington, Arlington Eats and Culture Buzz. For more: tinyurl.com/o6ctjm9.

2. A gift for the golfers ... If you need to buy a present for that special golfer in your life, Arlington Golf and Titleist have partnered for a holiday promotion to help you give a gift that is both memorable and useful. Titleist is offering free personalization on all Titleist golf balls ordered at participating golf shops through Dec. 31 (one dozen minimum). For more, contact the following shops: Tierra Verde Golf Club: (817) 478-8500; Chester Ditto Golf Course: (817) 275-5941; Lake Arlington Golf Course: (817) 451-6101; and Meadowbrook Park Golf Course: (817) 275-0221.

3. MISD awarded (twice) ... For the second year in a row, Mansfield ISD has been awarded the highest recognition from two organizations for its commitment to financial responsibility and transparency. It received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada and the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Association of School Business Officials International.

5 things we love about ARLINGTON ...

1.

We had the Mavericks first.

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2.

Trivia night at World of Beer rocks!

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

3.

How ‘bout that “new” Arlington Music Hall?!

4.

Where is Todrick Hall from, again?

5.

Two words: Mellow Mushroom!

AN EVENING OF remembrance Please join us at our candelight service celebrating the lives of our loved ones.

Saturday, December 12, 2015 candlelight service in the chapel

Two Services Offered 3:00 p.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Luminary Park Tour 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Enter the Gardens at the Randol Mill entrance to see the Luminaries and Live Nativity Scene.

From December 1st-15th we will be accepting canned food donations in benefit of Mission Arlington.

CALL TODAY TO FIND OUT HOW TO INCLUDE YOUR LOVED ONE IN OUR SPECIAL DVD PRESENTATION

817-275-2711

1219 N. DAVIS DRIVE, ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76012

Moore-FuneralHome.com prepaidfunerals.texas.gov

This ‘n Data

For the record

RAISE YOUR HAND if you remember when the University of Texas Arlington played football games at Arlington Stadium.

This vintage game program was sold prior to the UTA-McNeese State game in 1973.

GNS Foods to open holiday store GNS FOODS, a healthy snack and confections manufacturer, will open its retail outlet at 2109 E. Division St. through Dec. 23 to give holiday shoppers access to freshly made food gifts from the company’s production plant.

“Most of our business is repeat business from the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex,” said Kim Peacock, president and owner of GNS Foods. “Many are business people looking for business gifts, who load up the trunk of their cars. And the aroma of freshly-cooking pecan divinity and cashews roasting in the building doesn’t hurt business, either.”

In addition to its discounted items, the store will also carry some of its traditional best-seller items. These will include products from its website, greatnuts.com, and store best sellers. Customers can take the gifts with them, or the company will ship orders for them.

GNS Foods roasts nuts, makes snack mixes, coats nuts, and makes nut candy, such as pecan chewy’s, nut logos, pecan divinity and praline pecans.

Photo: blueapron.com

Photo: greenbaypackers1961.com

IF GENEALOGY is your thing, a great resource – in fact, many great resources – can be found at the Arlington Northeast Branch Library (1905 Brown Blvd.). The city’s genealogy book collection features information from all the states but Hawaii about locations that are important in historical immigration patterns to Texas.

WHO SAYS you have to spend a lot of money before you can have fun? Not in our city. To find a guide of free fun options, visit arlington.org/things-to-do/free.

THE ARLINGTON Municipal Airport is a general aviation “reliever” airport, providing corporate, cargo, and recreational pilots a convenient, full-service destination. Runway 16/34 is 6,080 feet long x 100 feet wide, with medium-intensity lighting and a full parallel taxiway. The air traffic control tower at the airport is operational from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day, with extended hours when major special events are held at the stadiums.

16

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

Blue Apron has a new fulfillment center in Arlington that delivers fresh, affordable food – and recipes for cooking it – straight to the home from the farm.

Your new way to shop

Blue Apron sends recipes, ingredients straight to home chefs from the farm BLUE APRON, a fresh ingredient and recipe delivery service, has opened a fulfillment center in Arlington. The company puts together various meals each week, and sends the perfect portions of each ingredient to users for their own cooking and learning pleasure.

Blue Apron makes home cooking accessible by delivering original recipes and fresh ingredients to home chefs nationwide. By reinventing the grocery supply chain from the farm to the dinner table, Blue Apron sources seasonal ingredients the company believes are fresher and more affordable than customers can get on their own at their local supermarket.

The New York-based company also has fulfillment centers in Jersey City, N.J., and Richmond, Calif., and currently delivers more than two million meals per month to customers across the country.

For more: blueapron.com.

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Applications now open for unique AISD programs!

Career and Technical Education Programs

High school students can apply to participate in programs such as the AISD Fire and Police Academies, cosmetology, health care rotations, sports and entertainment marketing, technical dual credit, culinary arts, HVAC, accounting, and many more.

Arlington Collegiate High School at TCC-SE

This innovative high school allows students who likely would not otherwise consider attending college the opportunity to earn a high school diploma and an associate degree simultaneously.

STEM Academy

Applications accepted through Feb. 26.

More info at www.aisd.net

Students in this academy located at Martin High School will have the opportunity to earn high school and college credits along four pathways - engineering, biology/ biomedical science, computer science and math/science.

Corey and Jones Academies of Fine Arts and Dual Language

Elementary students have the opportunity to learn Spanish, Mandarin, visual arts, music (choral, strings and piano), dance and theater. Both fine arts instruction and second language acquisition help students increase cognitive abilities, improve thinking and verbal skills, enhance motor skills and problem-solving ability, and improve SAT scores.

Happenings in the AISD

Community Connections Malik M. isn’t quite sure what he’s gotten himself into with the Mentoring Arlington Youth, or MAY, program, but from the looks of the group’s first gathering at Workman Junior High, “I think it will be really good for me,” he said.

The Workman student is one of 10 seventh- and eighth-grade students who have signed on to be mentored by Arlington police officers.

MAY is a first in the area, and it aims to provide a new resource and motivation for mentorship of young men.

“This is a long time coming,” AISD Assistant Superintendent Michael Hill said. “We picked 10 young men because we want to be really good with a few before we make this bigger and better.”

Judging from the phone calls Hill has been fielding lately, bigger won’t be a problem. Word is already out on a program that’s barely off the ground. Hill said dozens of parents have called to get their child into the program, which will develop and teach young men the life skills that will help them succeed.

Students will participate in interactive workshops on leadership, team building,

education and career development over 18 months.

Those sessions aren’t the only connection they will have to their mentors. The officers plan to visit the students in their schools and during some of their extracurricular activities.

The idea of the program came about when Lt. Tarrick McGuire began talking to a young man he was transporting to jail, and he learned about some of the

young man’s personal troubles. McGuire encouraged the young man to think more about his options in life, which he did.

The young man is now in school and has a steady job.

“Encouragement goes a long way,” McGuire said. “Kids want to feel that someone cares. It can literally change the direction of their lives. That’s what we’re trying to do with MAY.”

1203 W. Pioneer Pkwy Arlington, TX 76013 682-867-4611 • AISD.net Follow Arlington ISD on...

Around Town

Don’t know YET yet?

Youth Education Town continues on its path of serving Arlington families • By Kenneth Perkins

T Photo: Kenneth Perkins

Youth Education Town, or YET, offers an array of educational and recreational programs for youths like Maiyah Jefferson via an 8,000-squarefoot facility with a gym, dance studios, computer rooms and classrooms.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

he last time I was at Youth Education Town, Cowboy great Emmitt Smith was there, graciously leading a tour of the unfinished building. He was wearing a hard hat and grinning wildly, telling us how he couldn’t wait to see the first day when the kids “come piling in through those doors.”

They did come though the doors – though not necessarily as a pile.

It was more like a trickle.

Initial fears were that Youth Education Town, or YET, would be one of those places where we built it and nobody came.

Youth in Arlington have lots of options when it comes to recreational and academic activities, from the array of city-owned recreation centers to the Boys & Girls Clubs to the public libraries. YET arrived as the big daddy of them all, as the footprint the National Football League wants to leave behind after Arlington’s hosting of Super Bowl XLV. The NFL partners with organizations with track records for helping youth; YET is managed and run by the local Salvation Army.

Despite this glistening, gorgeous structure of some 8,000 square feet with a sparkling gym, dance studios, computer rooms, classrooms and a welcoming atmosphere, it is taking some time for Arlington to know what’s going on there.

Thankfully, YET is finding its footing as a community center that benefits not just youth in Arlington but the whole family.

YET still offers dance, Taekwondo, acting and musical theater, digital media, film production and even creative writing, but a steadily growing facet of its services is for the parents of the children the staff is trying to reach.

On a dreary, rainy Monday, the computer class is full, and, upstairs, a pair of classes for GED and ESL instruction are being held.

“We have seen a lot of growth in our programs, especially in the past year, which has been really exciting to watch,” said YET Director Aaron Proctor. “We’ve made a big marketing push into the schools and at school events.

What’s been most helpful to us have been the partnerships.”

Tarrant County College partners with YET for not only the GED and ESL classes but computer skills, interview skills and resume writing. Arlington Library helps out with workshops such as the creative writing and film production.

Theatre Arlington handles the acting and musical theater workshops, while Lone Star Institute of Taekwondo lead those classes for ages 6 to 18.

Christian character building is on Wednesday nights at the on-site chapel, and Zumba classes are held twice a week.

YET also works with the Arlington ISD to offer half-day pre-kindergarten classes. The sum of those parts manifests not only in the teaching going on, but in the way the partners help pique interest in the community.

“That’s also helped spread the word,” said Proctor, who added that the YET houses a collection of children and youth books, courtesy of the public library. “Partnering up only gets our name out there even more.”

When kids are out of school for the winter break in late December, YET will offer all-day camps. That is an extension of its after school program, which has struggled a bit due to the difficulties of transportation.

“We’ve worked with some of the school districts on transportation, and we have a few mini buses,” Proctor said. “But we are a little bit limited in that we haven’t solved all of those hurdles. But like everything else, we’re working on it.”

Indeed.

Columnist Kenneth Perkins has been a contributing writer for Arlington Today since it debuted.

He is a freelance writer, editor and photographer.

Picture-perfect moments

Photos: Arno Knapen/River Legacy Foundation

Sarah Pepper and Gena Anderson

Susan Sign and Ann Cavender share some camera time with a Trans-Pecos Rat Snake.

Ann Gillis and Faye Reeder

Amy DiStefano meets a new friend, Mr. Six, a three-toed box turtle that was part of the festivities during Night with Nature.

Scene

Snapshots from River Legacy’s A Night With Nature fall benefit held at the Living Science Center.

Jack Upchurch and David Lee enjoy roasting s’mores.

Jill Hill, Leslie Friedman and Becky Upchurch arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Honors

Arlington Today

PLUS: Local business profiles ... Private schools ... Art on the Greene March 2015

your community • your magazine

W

There’s a new sheriff in town

THERE’S A NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN

out of first place and an emhen Arlington Today barrassing 16 wins vs. 26 lossintroduced its readers es in their home ballpark, the to new Texas Rangers Rangers appeared to be giving Manager Jeff Banister in our credence to those negative March edition, the focus was forecasts. In fact, a repeat of all about Jeff’s resolve to “nevHow Jeff Banister the gloom and doom seemed er ever quit.” plans to return the destined to come true.

In fact, that became the Rangers to prominence Mumblings of “maybe next mantra of the 2015 season as year” could be heard from the team was facing the chalmany. lenge of recovering from fin But not from Banister and ishing last in the division the the men who played the game year before. under his leadership.

When asked about how he The “NeverEverQuit” ball viewed the daunting assignclub worked its way up to the ment, Banister replied, “We Division Championship and are all faced with adversities. entered the playoffs to the surWe have one of two ways we prise of just about everyone can go: We can fold up the tent except themselves. and quit. Or we can learn from When it came time for those it and finish with integrity and Serving Arlington, Mansfield, Kennedale and SW Grand Prairie same media types among determination.” the Baseball Writers’ Associ While that sounded good, Texas Rangers skipper Jeff Banister was named Manager of the Year by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. ation of America to select the maybe even inspirational, the league’s Manager of the Year, pundits and prognosticators in the balloting was not even the baseball media across the close. country weren’t convinced of Jeff became the first Ameria result much better than the can League manager with no previous year. previous major league man Then things got worse. agerial experience to win the Before Opening Day, the coveted honor.

Rangers had lost their ace He also became the only pitcher for the season to TomRangers’ first-year skipper is named American manager in the history of the my John surgery. Then anLeague Manager of the Year Texas Rangers to guide the other member of the starting club to a first place finish in his rotation went down with a first year leading the team from the dugout. shoulder injury, one of the team’s best hitters was sidelined with elbow In the Banister fashion, he credited his players for the honor. surgery, and the starting center fielder suffered a sprained left wrist.

The 2016 season debuts in Arlington on April 4, and we can hardly The new season was only a month old. Then, at the All Star break wait. with a losing record and mired in the middle of the division six games March 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

Banister is the best

22

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

OUTSTANDING PRICING

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Philanthropy

The Texas Rangers Foundation has teamed with Just Keep Livin Foundation creator Matthew McConaughey to start wellness programs in area public schools.

A home run for the home team The Texas Rangers’ community support programs recently received a big boost from new legislation

O

A quick look at their year-end and seasonal events provides further insight to what the team is doing to help others.

In preparing for Veterans Day, the Rangers’ front office staff cleaned and scrubbed headstones at DFW National Cemetery.

In addition to honoring veterans at home games, the Foundation annually takes some of them to the November Faces of Freedom recognition event in the nation’s capital. Anyone can nominate someone they know who has shown courage, strength and patriotism in their line of duty, past or present.

Players and staff spend lots of time in the holiday season visiting area health care facilities such as Cook Children’s Medical Center, Children’s Medical Center in Dallas, Mission Arlington and more.

Rangers catcher Robinson Chirinos is this year’s representative for the Foundation in the annual Cowboy Santas program, which has provided toys, books and games to children since 1981.

In support of the Just Keep Livin Foundation, the Rangers have joined the organization’s founders Matthew and Camila McConaughey in starting fitness and wellness programs in area public schools.

A shopping spree at Albertson’s is on tap for the Foundation this month. Then there are fundraising events the Foundation conducts throughout the year to accomplish all the programs so beneficial to our region.

Next up in the series is An Evening With The Rangers on Dec. 16, where ace pitcher Cole Hamels and team Manager Jeff Banister promise a memorable evening of holiday cheer.

The Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation is one of the region’s larger corporate benefactors. And the team gives Guests bring gifts of toys to this one in supback in other ways – here a front office staffer cleans headstones at DFW National Cemetery. port of that Cowboy Santas program mentioned above.

On Jan. 22, there’s the big dinner at the Gaylord Texan Resort, Funds raised in the raffles are split 50/50 between the winning where the 2015 Texas Rangers major and minor league awards are ticket holder and the teams’ charities, allowing the Foundation anannounced. other opportunity to improve the lives of children.

Details about the work of the Foundation, access to tickets for Conservative estimates are that Rangers games throughout the events and much more can be found at the organization’s website: season would produce about $500,000 for the Foundation to use in texasrangers.com/foundation. expanding their community service programs. ne of the many signs of the commitment of community support made by the Texas Rangers when The Ballpark in Arlington opened in 1994 was the creation of The Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation.

Between then and now, the Rangers have become one of the larger corporate benefactors addressing local needs. The total of funds invested will soon reach the $15 million mark.

The money is being put to work in seven remarkable programs sponsored by the Foundation.

They include youth education, the military, youth in crisis, grant programs for community organizations, youth health, special fundraising events and youth baseball.

With the passage last month of an amendment to the Texas Constitution that will allow Texas professional sports teams to conduct raffles during their games (as in done in many states), the Foundation now has the ability to do even more.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

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Happy Holidays!

Photo: Holiday Lights Parade

Holiday Lights parade

Home for the Holidays Here are seven local celebrations that show how the area really gets into the spirit this time of year

DATING TO 2002, this annual event in Downtown Arlington officially launches the holiday season for the city. On Dec. 5, thousands of people will gather for the pageantry, which ends with the lighting of the Christmas tree on the steps of city hall.

Entertainment begins at 4 p.m., followed by the parade, which starts at 6 p.m. and winds through downtown. The city tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. caps the day.

For more: holidaylightsparade.com

Holiday in the Park

Photo: Six Flags Over Texas

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AN ANNUAL tradition, Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Texas is a breathtaking winter wonderland filled with enchanting experiences for the entire family.

Visitors to the amusement park will discover a variety of delightful and interactive activities to help capture the holiday spirit – not to mention more than a few sparkling lights, glamorous decorations, festive scents and seasonal treats, as well as the park’s trademark hair-raising rides and heartwarming shows.

Holiday in the Park will run through Jan. 3.

For more: sixflags.com/overtexas

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

Photo: jackontheweb.cbslocal.com

Prairie Lights UPON ARRIVING at the entrance to Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie, visitors this month will be dazzled by four million lights set along two miles of path. Hundreds of new displays in shapes of all kinds line and arch over the roads. Halfway through the drive, visitors can get out of the car for a stop at Holiday Village, where they’ll find food, gifts, Santa, the all-new indoor laser show and the Holiday Magic Lighted Walk-Through Forest. The adventure ends with the very animated light tunnel.

For more: prairielights.org

Photo: spiritofarlington.com

Interlochen lights ONE OF THE LARGER holiday light displays in north Texas continues to shine bright in Arlington. Beginning Dec. 17, the Arlington Police Department will set up traffic control posts from 7-11 p.m. each evening before Christmas to help facilitate safe travel for tourists and neighbors taking in this holiday experience, which dates to 1976.

Every year, more than 200 homeowners in this northwest Arlington community near Interstate 30 celebrate the season by adorning their homes and property with festive lights and holiday-themed displays. Visitors can enter the Interlochen neighborhood from Westwood Drive at Randol Mill Road.

Traffic must keep right at all times, leaving the left lane open for emergency vehicles and Interlochen homeowners.

For more: tinyurl.com/opoyx87

Adventure to Santa THIS MONTH through Christmas eve, The Parks at Arlington is hosting Adventure to Santa, a DreamWorks DreamPlace Santa production that embodies DreamWorks’ distinctive blend of world-class technology and storytelling for a next generation holiday experience.

Visitors can explore Santa’s home, take a thrilling cinematic sleigh ride, meet Santa and pose for a photo, and bring home a holiday memory they’ll never forget.

For more: theparksatarlington. com/events/adventure-to-santa

Photo: mommadjane.com

Mansfield activities

Photo: City of Mansfield

ON DEC. 5, an estimated 3,000 people will head to downtown Mansfield to celebrate Christmas with the Hometown Holidays parade. The parade features attractions for people of all ages and is the highlight of a weekend full of activities that include a breakfast with Santa, a tree lighting, a fireworks display and caroling.

You also will want to consider taking the Holiday Tour of Homes, sponsored by the Mansfield Women’s Club and set for Dec 6.

For more: mansfieldtexas.org

Photo: Mission Arlington

The Christmas Store MISSION ARLINGTON’S Christmas Store is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. from Dec. 12-23, providing presents to underprivileged families throughout the Arlington area.

The store is set up like many traditional “stores.” Shelves and tables are used to hold the gifts and divide those gifts by age groups. It is staffed by churches, schools, families and individuals from the community who have donated toys, worked, planned and prayed for the people who will come to the store.

For more: missionarlington.com

arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

27

Happy Holidays!

An independent Claus Jerry Miller took up the role of St. Nick when he decided children needed a Santa that was more than an actor in a suit in a mall • By Toni Randle-Cook

Photo courtesy of Jerry Miller

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

WHILE MOST PEOPLE look forward to time off during the holiday season, Jerry Miller is more than happy to show up for work.

The 83-year-old is a retired sales and marketing executive. But his current job could arguably be the most impactful – meet Ol’ Santa.

That’s right – Miller dresses up in the red suit, boots and beard from the day after Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve night. He has been on the Arlington scene for 15 years, serving as the city’s official Santa Claus in the Holiday Lights Parade and as a regular at both Decorator’s Warehouse and Lincoln Square’s Santa Land.

He did not play the role of Santa last year in Lincoln Square, but he is thrilled to be back at the shopping center again in 2015.

Miller says there is a big difference between him and other mall Santas, “because I talk to the kids, because the photographs were inexpensive, because they didn’t have to wait in line, they didn’t have to stand because we always provided chairs. It was a pretty good thing.”

Miller considers himself an “old-fashioned Santa.” He decided to play St. Nick decades ago, after a less-than-magical experience in the mall with his son.

“Our turn came, and a little old man said, ‘Smile for the woman with the camera and thank you very much,’” said Miller. “It kind of blew up in my face.”

It was on that trip home that a disappointed Miller told his wife one day he was going to become a department store Santa – one like he used to visit in the ‘30s, one that spends time with the children and encourages them to ask questions.

Miller will ask, “Do you have any questions you want to ask Ol’ Santa about the reindeer, the elves, the toy shop, the North Pole or anything like that?” And, he said, most children will pose a question.

Miller has a creative answer for any query thrown his way. In fact, he’s written down all of his Santa stories, which have been published in two volumes of a book.

Ol’ Santa will put in about 250 to 275 hours during the month he sits at Lincoln Square. Aside from his limited expenses, the rest of the proceeds will be donated to A Wish with Wings. He has worked with the charity, which grants magical wishes for little Texans with life-threatening conditions, for a number of years. Miller said giving a check to the organization is the highlight of his year.

And when it comes down to it, that’s the true meaning of the season and what makes Miller such a successful Santa.

“Preparation to become a Santa? It’s in your heart,” said Miller. “You can have the finest suit, the fanciest decorations, you know? But if you don’t have it in your heart, you don’t have it.”

Santa Land is open this month through Dec. 24.

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29

Happy Holidays!

Holiday happenings ...

History, Mansfield-style

Santa Land

Photo: blog.potterybarn.com

Your holiday planner ARE YOU READY for the holidays? You will be if you use this simple checklist.

Stock your pantry – Musthaves include quick, no-cook appetizers; basic baking ingredients; spices and marinades; and frozen puff pastry, pie and cookie dough.

Set the mood – Keep decorative accessories handy. A vase with fresh-cut flowers and tea lights in frosted glass holders are enough to add that festive touch.

Pre-plan and prep cook – Come up with a few go-to holiday menu plans and try to prep cook many of the elements in advance.

The reward: no slaving over a hot stove on the “big day.”

Find a place for everyone – Do you have enough space at the dinner table? Do you need extra chairs or place settings? Is your oven space adequate for the quantity of food you’ll be preparing?

Bring on the fun – Have a variety of board games, books, playing cards and movies ready for those times when your guests need to entertain themselves. If you’re hosting young ones, have a few age-appropriate toys available, as well.

Ready the guest room – If your houseguests are staying overnight, make sure they have towels, toiletries and bed linens, as well as maps and guidebooks for the area.

– Amy Cearnal, CearnalCo

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

When: Dec. 1-24 (2-6 p.m.)

Where: Lincoln Square Shopping Center (436 Lincoln Square) Details: Stop by Santa Land for a visit with St. Nick and have your picture taken with the jolly one. Proceeds benefit A Wish with Wings’ mission of granting magical wishes for little Texans with life-threatening conditions.

For more: (817) 461-7953

Kennedale Tree Lighting Ceremony

When: Dec. 1 (5:30-8 p.m.)

Where: TownCenter Park (405 Municipal Drive, Kennedale) Details: Kennedale rings in the holiday season when it celebrates the annual lighting of the city tree.

For more: (817) 985-2170

Scenes of the Nativity

holiday favorite, The Muppet Christmas Carol, on the big screen! Charles Dickens’ classic tale is retold as only Jim Henson’s Muppets can.

For more: levittpavilionarlington.org

Old Towne Christmas Craft Fair

When: Dec. 5-6 (noon-7 p.m. on Friday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday) Where: Dottie Lynn Recreation Center (3200 Norwood Lane) Details: The smells of homemade goodies will fill the air, music of the season will surround you, and the newest ideas in the holiday craft décor and gifts can be seen and purchased during this fun-filled family event. All ages can visit SYMPHONY Arlington with Santa Claus at noon on will set the holiday mood Saturday. with performances of JoFor more: naturallyfun.org/ hann Strauss II’s “Treasure dottie-lynn Waltz” and Robert Wendel’s “Jerusalem of Gold.”

Santa Photos The concert, set for 7:30 When: Dec. 5-20 (Saturdays p.m. on Dec. 17 at Arlington and Sundays; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.)

Music Hall, will also feature Where: Traders Village (2602 the annual Carol Sing-along Mayfield Road, Grand Prairie) with old favorites. For more: Details: Kids and families of symphonyarlington.org. all ages can have their photo

A holiday treasure for your pleasure

When: Dec. 1-28 (10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. on Sunday) Where: Arlington Museum of Art (201 W. Main St.) Details: The events leading up to and surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ have been a popular subject among artists since the 4th century. With pieces from Masters Rembrandt, Albrecht Dürer, and Peter Paul Rubens, Scenes of the Nativity is a visual narrative of the Advent season.

For more: arlingtonmuseum.org

Christmas at the Cabins

When: Dec. 4 (6-8 p.m.)

Where: Knapp Heritage Park (201 W. Front St.) Details: Choral performances by AISD school choirs highlight this event. Other features: the Christmas tree lighting, live blacksmithing demonstrations, refreshments and horsedrawn carriage rides.

For more: (817) 460-4001

The Muppet Christmas Carol

When: Dec. 5 (7:15 p.m.)

Where: Levitt Pavilion (505 E. Border St.) Details: Enjoy a free screening of a family

taken with Santa for just $5. All proceeds benefit the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce.

For more: tradersvillage.com/grand-prairie

Happy Holidays Gift Market

When: Dec. 12-13 (10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday; 1-5 p.m. on Sunday) Where: The Arlington Museum of Art (201 W. Main St.) Details: Gifts galore await you at this annual event, presented by 817ArtsAlliance. Local artisans and collectors from a variety of backgrounds will share their enthusiasm for what they create and collect. Items for sale include ceramics, jewelry, artisanal soap, photos, holiday decorations, art, glass creations and fiber/ cloth goodies.

For more: 817artsalliance.blogspot.com/p/ happy-holidays-gift-market.html

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Holiday Gift Giving

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UTA Today

Shanna Peeples UTA alumna inspires educators as National Teacher of the Year

S

hanna Peeples worked as a disc jockey, medical assistant, pet sitter and journalist before finding her true calling as a teacher. The University of Texas at Arlington graduate represents the nation’s 3 million educators as the 2015 National Teacher of the Year, America’s oldest and most prestigious honor of its kind, bestowed by the Council of Chief State School Officers.

Peeples teaches English at Palo Duro High School in Amarillo, where 85 percent of the school’s students live below the poverty line. Many are refugees who speak English as a second language and recently entered the United States from war-torn regions.

“My students, survivors of deep and debilitating trauma, have shaped the kind of teacher I am,” she says. “They have taught me never to make a promise I can’t keep because so many already have learned to see the world through suspicious eyes. To be the best teacher to them, I have to remember this and honor their background. I remember so I can gain their trust because I want them to read and write their way out of where they are.”

Peeples is the first Texas teacher to win National Teacher of the Year

Shanna Peeples

since 1957 and the first UTA alumna to do so. She was selected among hundreds of thousands nominated for the honor. Candidates inspire their students and play an active role in the community. They also earn respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues in and out of the classroom.

“Research indicates that more than anything else in a student’s school life, good teaching matters most,” College of Education Dean Jeanne Gerlach says. “Shanna’s recognition as the 2015 National Teacher of the Year exemplifies teaching at its best.”

Peeples, who was recognized in a White House ceremony for the honor, earned a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction in 2013 through an online program offered by the College of Education through Academic Partnerships.

“UTA’s online program helped me do what I didn’t think was possible: earn my master’s degree while staying in the classroom,” she says.

“I’m proud of UTA’s commitment to create more teacher-leaders in Texas and the U.S., and I’m proud to be a UT Arlington alumna.”

Service:

It’s in our DNA

Community service by The University of Texas at Arlington’s students, faculty and staff members to our neighbors near and far is a part of our DNA. We: • Volunteer hundreds of thousands of hours that make a crucial impact on a variety of non-profit organizations.

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At UTA it’s what we do as a model 21st century urban campus. Visit uta.edu to learn more.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

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www.conradcreative.com arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

35

Community Spirit

Colors for Caring Mansfield ISD superintendent pioneers a district-wide project to raise cancer awareness • By Toni Randle-Cook

D

r. Jim Vaszauskas is superintendent of the Mansfield Independent School District. He has served 35 years in Texas schools as a teacher, a coach and in various administrative roles. And while he does have an impressive resume, he’s now making a huge impact in the district – and it has nothing to do with test scores or rankings.

This year, Dr. Vaszauskas launched the Colors for Caring initiative, which raises cancer awareness.

“So many of us have had cancer or know someone who has had it,” said Dr. Vaszauskas. “Whether students are talking to friends or a teacher, or simply posting a picture using the hashtag #ColorsForCaring, they are getting to know more about each other and realizing how many people are affected by cancer.”

According to the American Cancer Society, more than one million people in the U.S. get cancer each year. The superintendent, himself, is a cancer survivor.

Dr. Vaszauskas had treatment for invasive thymoma (cancer of the thymus gland) in 2013. The disease came back earlier this year and was surgically removed in April.

Dr. Vaszauskas said he and his wife were humbled by the support they received during that time. And he has no doubt that the prayers and positive thoughts from staff, parents, students and community members are what kept him going.

“We started the Colors for Caring initiative to spread the power of community support for others who are fighting the cancer battle because it is something that helped me tremendously,” said Dr. Vaszauskas. “Plus, it is important to remember and support those who have fought or are fighting a battle with cancer. In the MISD, no one fights this disease alone. “ Colors for Caring is a way to spread that power of community support. On the first Monday of each month in the 2015-16 school year, Mansfield ISD is encouraging the community to wear a color that represents a cancer that affected the life of a loved one.

It’s an initiative that hits home for Michelle Cheripka, a third grade teacher at Roberta Tipps Elementary School. In August, her 34-year-old husband was diagnosed with colon cancer.

“While it may seem like a little thing, setting aside one day per month to bring awareness to the fight against cancer, it has brought love into our lives on some of our hardest days,” said Cheripka.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

Cancer Color Chart The colors being worn vary. But each participant has a story to tell.

“Staff members and teachers have shared with others and me what they have experienced,” said Dr. Vaszauskas. “Just the simple acts of holding up a sheet of paper with the details of what color one is wearing and for whom is incredibly powerful.”

Cheripka said this initiative isn’t just having an impact on the students in MISD; it’s impacting the parents of students in the district.

“Students are going home and asking questions, parents are seeing our shirts when they come up to the school, and it is raising awareness throughout the community,” she said. “Cancer can happen to anyone, and awareness is the key to a cure.”

Dr. Vaszauskas said participation has been “unbelievable.” He hopes Colors for Caring will become a tradition in the community, with a lot of support for and memories of loved ones.

If you would like to see photos of the Colors for Caring days, go to the district website at mansfieldisd.org.

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Urban Development

Downtown rising There’s no skyline, but the city’s core will soon be pleasantly surprising • By Kenneth Perkins

B

y 7 p.m. one breezy Friday, it was becoming comically clear that Jessica Steinberg, a marketing manager driving into Arlington from West Fort Worth to join her boyfriend for burgers at J.R. Bentley’s, was hopelessly lost. She had zipped down Abram Street, up Cooper, along Division, to Collins and back to Abram as though dazed and confused inside a maze. With little bearings and no GPS to bail her out, she left a rambling message on Mark Hawthorne’s cell phone that ended with one final, frantic question: Where, exactly, is downtown?

Time was when Tony Rutigliano would cringe at such a story, but not so much anymore. The president of the Arlington Downtown Management Corporation has long heard the jokey comments about the city having no downtown – and, to add insult to injury – no buses to get you there even if it did. The buses are still pretty much non-existent.

Downtown is moving along quite nicely, thank you.

In the past few years, in fact, downtown Arlington has been on a roll.

On the night Hawthorne met up with Steinberg – she did eventually make it, by the way – J.R. Bentley’s was hopping, with patrons waiting patiently for tables, chatting, laughing and playing on their mobile devices.

Grease Monkey was bustling, as was Mellow Mushroom and Babe’s Chicken, which also had a crowd jostling for space. Outside the restau38

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

rants, people were strolling by, some looking for food, and some just looking for something to do.

For Rutigliano, having people stroll around for dining or just for fun is the kind of scenario he wants to see. His vision, along with that of Mayor Jeff Williams and the city council, is a place full of vitality where people run into one another by foot.

The idea is for Abram to morph into this pedestrian-friendly enclave with fewer traffic lanes, wider sidewalks, more streetscapes and public art to give the area a distinct urban feel.

The idea is for students at the University of Texas Arlington to leave their dorm rooms and scamper north to downtown restaurants, lured by shops and restaurants, and to hear music at the Levitt Pavilion, the popular outdoor music venue.

The idea is that once the crowd files out of AT&T Stadium or Globe Life Park, they don’t head to I-30 and home but make a beeline for downtown to eat or just hang out, seeing Arlington as less a quickie sports interlude and more a day-long exploration.

City planners are well aware that downtowns are the city’s identity, and that identity is often solidified when there’s a towering skyline to direct you. With the tallest building in downtown Arlington at six stories, that won’t be happening any time soon. Still, Rutigliano sees downtown as a place where people congregate as if searching for a

Tony Rutigliano, president of the Arlington Downtown Management Corporation, says the city is starting to create its dream downtown.

Photo:Arlington Downtown Management Corporation

sense of place. Rutigliano says downtowns give them that, with entertainment and cultural institutions such as Theatre Arlington and the Arlington Museum of Art. While Arlington’s downtown might never sport the kind of traditional skyline that anchors a city, Rutigliano, city and business leaders and civic-minded residents are convinced that several moves over the past five years signal a corner-turning. That’s because, as they put it, the best is yet to come.

“In just a few years this place is going to be unrecognizable,” Rutigliano said. “It will be completely different. It’s going to be very cool.”

FIRST, THERE’S the multi-million dollar reconstruction of Abram between Cooper and Collins.

Second, there’s construction beginning soon on the six-story mixeduse development where the Central Library once stood. 101 Center will offer more than 200 apartments, a large parking garage and 40,000 square feet of space for shops, offices and restaurants. Other amenities include sidewalk patios and benches, which are features designed to create an inviting atmosphere for pedestrians and shoppers nearby.

101 Center will be in walking distance of the new library, a three-story building just east of City Hall that will provide a large community space.

404 Border is yet another apartment structure that will offer another 135 units of residential living.

“I didn’t grow up here, but I’ve been here for a few years now,” said Hawthorne, the J.R. Bentley diner. “It’s true. It lacks that cool element that will keep your professionals here. But I enjoy being downtown now. It has a hip feeling to it now, or it’s at least more hip than it was a few years ago.”

Downtowns across the country have been revitalized to hip status thanks mostly to housing, which lures young professionals, and the adventurous, which creates a bustling vitality. Rutigliano said downtown residents give the area a lived-in feel and attract other businesses wanting to cater to them, as well other residents who might not have thought of ever living downtown.

“Downtown living is what will give it the kind of vitality it should have,” said Patti Diou, executive director of the Levitt Pavilion. “People attract other people, and if that atmosphere is already present, it will only make people want to stay there and enjoy themselves.”

Rutigliano is thinking of that as well, especially to entice UTA students downtown. UTA’s partnership with Arlington is vital, one of those marriages that when they work, uplift the fortunes of all involved.

People often point to places like Austin, where on the weekends its famed Sixth Street is flooded with students hitting the restaurants and arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Downtown is steadily evolving from a series of artist’s renderings into a vibrant hub for the city.

“Arlington grew up as a suburb, and we developed as a suburb, and we kind of forgot about downtown. Now we’re refocusing on the center and creating that urban fabric that’s missing.”

– Tony Rutigliano

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

clubs. Two years ago, UTA rolled out College Park, its “college town” concept, with the idea of connecting with downtown Arlington and making it an Austin-like scene.

“Our relationship with UTA is strengthening each year,” Rutigliano said. “Overall, I’ve seen growth in developing into that traditional college experience. They want their students to have what students at high-profile universities have.

That’s an important part of a community. We are getting there.

“There isn’t so much a barrier anymore,” Rutigliano continued. “There’s no wall. But there’s no reason for students to come this way. They come to a few restaurants, Greek like kids are at Mavericks Bar and J. Gilligan’s, at Bentley’s. But how do you sustain that? That’s the question we’ll have to answer.”

ARLINGTON’S downtown was once the center of the city partly because that’s all it was. There’s a 1916 photograph at the Arlington Historical Society Museum showing a gathering in downtown Arlington. It looks like a hopping place, with horse-drawn wagons carrying bales of cotton, men hanging out in front of stores like R.W. McKnight Groceries, Copeland Grocery, and Coulter and Sons Drug Store.

As the city grew, it grew out, while downtown went stagnant. Just a decade ago, downtown consisted of City Hall and the public library. Calling it a downtown, at least in the traditional sense, had become something of a punch line.

“Arlington grew up as a suburb, and we developed as a suburb, and we kind of forgot about it,” Rutigliano said of downtown. “Now we’re refocusing on the center and creating that urban fabric that’s missing. Arlington has a bunch of single-family housing and suburban style multi-family housing, but never an urban core lifestyle. And this is something that has been in the makings for awhile.”

Indeed, downtown Arlington started showing life with the birth of Levitt Pavilion. The outdoor music venue pulled in music lovers from all over North Texas on the weekends during the concert season.

Hordes of people ventured out into downtown with nothing to do.

Last year, more than 130,000 people were heading over to the Levitt each year, with many of them being UTA students and other young professionals.

“The Levitt gave people a reason to come downtown,” Rutigliano said. “Our question then was ‘what do we do when they are here before and after the concert?’”

City officials want the 10,000 or so UTA graduates to stay put, to get jobs here, open businesses here, live and play here. In order to do that they have to give them a compelling reason to hang around.

“In terms of UTA, it’s like having new customers coming into downtown each year, and we have five years to ingrain them, for them to say, ‘oh, this is a cool place to be,” said Rutigliano. “In order to do that, you have to create something that is interesting to them. That’s exactly what we’re doing.”

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arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Classic Cars

Presents courtesy of The Container Store at the Arlington Highlands

Craig Davis is rehearsing his role as Santa’s helper beside his 1954 Chevy half-ton truck, affectionately known as “The Red Truck.”

It’s all H about a tribute to Dad Craig Davis and ‘The Red Truck’ carry on a longtime family tradition • By Richard Greene 42

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

orace Davis set a standard of caring for others, and the tradition lives on through his son Craig with what has always been known as “The Red Truck” that has made its mark on Arlington.

“Dad first saw the 1954 Chevy half-ton while going down the road,” Craig said. “He asked the lady who owned it if she would sell it to him. “‘Not now, but maybe someday,’ she replied, so Horace wrote his name and phone number on the dashboard and asked her to call him when she was ready to part with it.

Three years later, he got the call, and The Red Truck has been in the family since.”

The design of the 3100 series, like Craig’s, was actually introduced as Chevy’s postWorld War II entry into the truck market in 1947, marking the beginning of an era where it would be No. 1 in sales for the next decade.

This 1954 model wrought significant design changes, notably with the advent of a now-curved, one-piece windshield without the center-dividing strip. This resulted in a cab surrounded by five windows.

Interior revisions included a new steering wheel, a reworked dashboard, horizontal instead of angled cargo bed rails, and, most striking, the front end transformation from five horizontal slats to a crossbar design known as the “bull nose” grille.

Craig has lived in Arlington since 1957 and will soon mark his 40th anniversary with AT&T. Throughout his career he has found the time to give back to the community in

“The Red Truck” is an attention grabber at car shows around the Metroplex, but it’s more than that – it also is a touching tribute from a son to his father.

arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

43

Davis has the “Red Truck” loaded with holiday treats, which is appropriate, given how the vehicle is a treat that has spread good cheer for the past six decades.

many ways. His devotion to helping others can be traced to his father’s work in setting up the Hearts and Hands initiative in 1965 through the North Davis Church of Christ.

As part of his Eagle Scout Project, Craig addressed fundamental needs of some for food or clothing. He would later find other opportunities for service.

When he talks about his joy of being a professional clown – or a balloon sculptor – and part-time auctioneer he sums it all up by saying how much he enjoys meeting so many “neat people” and sharing with others how they can be “blessed by the things you do” – another of the essential life lessons he learned from his dad.

His first appearances as a clown occurred in 1980 during Arlington’s famed Fourth of July Parade, and his skills at balloon sculpturing have been practiced “all over the world.”

He has been a regular in the nighttime parades at the annual State Fair of Texas and other carnivals across the region.

He has pursued his desire to celebrate Christmastime by doing “Santa stuff,” including converting his golf cart into a sleigh for corporate parties and community events. The Red Truck can be seen all around the area these days. It is regularly showcased at Arlington Area Street

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

Rods Friday night Cruise-In gatherings in Southwest Arlington and the group’s other events throughout the year. It also has appeared at the Southwest Classics Show & Shine on South Cooper Street, the Classic Car Show in Pantego, and, most recently, at the Forney Turkey Trax Auto Show.

And those are just a sampling of sightings of this entertainment entrepreneur with The Red Truck turned into community benefactor.

WHEN YOU ENCOUNTER Craig and his truck, he will likely offer you a Payday candy bar – it was his father’s favorite, and Horace always gave Craig a box of them on special occasions.

When we caught up with Craig for this story, we imagined him as Santa’s helper loading gifts for Christmas Eve delivery and staged the photo shoot in River Legacy Park.

It took a bit longer than usual because we kept getting interrupted by folks wanting to admire the red beauty, take their own pictures with it, hear Craig tell of its history and just enjoy the experience.

It’s all a part of the usual reaction he receives, along with trophies galore he has collected over the years, when he shows up with his dad’s very special red truck.

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Mary Johnston, Karen Kuczek, Morrie Minshew, Debbie Coke and Von Keomaxay

Bankers you need to know 46

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

Photo: Southern Flair Photography

Morrie Minshew, Debbie Coke, Karen Kuczek, Von Keomaxay and Mary Johnston Mercantile Bank branches of Woodhaven National Bank

TITLES: Morrie Minshew, Branch President; Debbie Coke, Senior Vice President; Karen Kuczek, Senior Vice President; Von Keomaxay, Vice President; and Mary Johnston, Vice President. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: 187 combined years in the banking industry. THE BANK’S PHILOSOPHY: We are nothing without our customers. We try to do what is best for our customers while protecting the bank and depositors interest. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Mercantile Bank, and the Woodhaven Bank organization, are involved in various community and charitable organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, Fort Worth Air Power Association, United Way and Big Brothers & Big Sisters. We encourage our employees to donate their time and talent to worthy causes. WHAT SETS THE BANK APART: We know our customers. We call them by name and know about their families and businesses. IT IS A GOOD DAY AT WORK WHEN ... We share in our customers’ successes by helping them with their financing and depository needs.

Mercantile Bank 1521 N. Cooper, Suite 100 • (817) 807-4000 2229A West Park Row • (817) 277-2225 woodhavenbank.com

Bankers you need to know

Bill Allen and Cathy Allen Photo: Southern Flair Photography

Billy W. Allen and Cathy S. Allen TITLES: Billy W. Allen, President; Cathy S. Allen, EVP Lending. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: Cathy Allen has been in banking since 1971 while attending UTA. Bill Allen has been in banking since 1969. We chartered TheBank Arlington in 2005 and merged with Prosperity Bank in 2012, therefore, our combined total time is 10 years with Prosperity Bank. THE BANK’S PHILOSOPHY: Greet every customer with a SMILE. Address our Customers by NAME, if possible. Try to accommodate any need the customers may have. Try to say YES instead of NO. THANK the Customer for Banking with Prosperity Bank. WHAT SETS THE BANK APART: Banks are all basically the same ... offering the same products and services as the other bank down the street ... but it is the People, your Passion and your Pride you bring to your job as a banker that makes the difference. Banking has changed drastically in the past years due to mergers, regulations and technology, but at the end of the day, you must have the right People, whether they answer the phone, take deposits or make loans. The value we have are the People that work at Prosperity Bank in Arlington, who have that Passion and Pride. We never say, “My” Customer; it is “Our” Customer. It is Prosperity Bank’s Customer, and we always form a relationship by introducing the customers to more than one associate. From that introduction, that relationship promotes loyalty to our customers and helps Prosperity Bank grow and the Arlington community grow. Yes, we are a TEXAS-based community bank with 244 locations in Texas/Oklahoma with $22 billion in assets strong, and we make our decisions locally with people, our lenders, our new accounts, our tellers, and our Lobby Manager, but most of all, we do it through our loyal customers – because they refer us their friends, their neighbors, their family, their business associates, and that is the greatest recommendation of all.

Cathy was raised in Arlington and attended Arlington High School and the University of Texas at Arlington, and Bill was raised in Fort Worth and attended Poly and Texas Wesleyan University, but has been in Arlington for over 40 years. IT IS A GOOD DAY AT WORK WHEN ... Prosperity Bank Arlington makes a loan to help a business grow, or we can lend money to build a home, buy a lot, finance a building, buy a car or take a deposit because you know you have just performed a valuable job in the community … being a strong financial bank and serving the market, Arlington. It is great to open that door and breathe life into Arlington by being involved in the community, taking deposits and loaning money and doing what you have a passion for: Building a Better Tomorrow for the People of Arlington.

Prosperity Bank • 4110 S. Bowen Road • (817) 635-2900 • prosperitybankusa.com arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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PlainsCapital Bank 1501 N. Center St. • (817) 698-4750 plainscapital.com 48

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

Money Matters

Q&A:

With Money Man Derrick Kinney

J

oining us this month is well respected financial advisor Derrick Kinney, known by national media for taking complex financial situations and making them simple to understand. He’s here to answer important questions people have about planning for retirement. Derrick and his team specialize in retirement income planning, with offices located in Arlington and Richardson.

Going behind the scenes of Derrick’s office, he shared that many people fear running out of money in retirement and having to go back to work. They also worry about not being able to live the life they had imagined during retirement. This can lead people to become very frustrated. But it can be avoided with proper planning. Here are Derrick’s solutions to these common concerns: Q: Will I have enough money for retirement?

A: “Recently, a woman was in my office and worried about having enough money to retire. This client had wanted to retire for a while,” Derrick said. “She needed a plan for how it would work so that she could feel confident about the transition and finally step off the corporate treadmill. We Derrick (right) with FOX 4 Good Day co-anchor Tim Ryan before an interview. reviewed her income options, all of her retirement benefits needed. Testing it before you retire saves a lot of heartache down the and what she really wanted for herself. She felt empowered to take action road. Keep in mind, everyone is different,” he continued. “For one client, and was so excited to be able to retire.” it may be important to have enough money to travel the globe; for another it might be the comfort of knowing everyday essentials are covQ: What are my blind spots or potential obstacles? ered, and that they don’t have to worry about being on a budget when A: “Let’s face it. We all have blind spots and sometimes all we need is a going to the grocery store.” new perspective or second opinion to help us overcome them,” Derrick Derrick and his team care deeply about their clients and what is imsaid. “That reminds me of a couple who was deeply concerned about portant to them. Their first priority is helping clients live life to the fullest market volatility and unexpected events. While these are all part of life and enjoy a meaningful retirement. now and in retirement, they couldn’t control them and felt nervous. As we worked together, helping them anticipate what could go wrong and Our last question for Derrick is this – are you taking on new clibuilding flexibility into the financial plan, they gained confidence. At the ents? The answer is “absolutely!” he said. “While the practice continues end of the day, retiring confidently is about living life on your terms.” to grow and evolve, we are always happy to help more people.”

Q: Can I keep my lifestyle in retirement?

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact A: “One thing I suggest clients do is live on a practice retirement budget Derrick Kinney & Associates at 700 Highlander Blvd., Suite 335, Arbefore they retire. Take the amount of money they plan to live on each lington, Texas 76015, by phone at 817.419.6001, or via his website at month during retirement and practice living on it now,” said Derrick. www.DerrickKinney.com.

“This allows them to experience what it’s like, and make adjustments as

Entrepreneurship

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Mansfield-based All Things Hospitality takes hospitality marketing to a different level

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here are hotel marketing firms, and then there is All Things Hospitality. To give you an idea of the difference, consider that the former is generally adept at creating images of hotels that make you ponder the possibilities of a stay. Mansfield-based All Things Hospitality sees that image and raises it a gamut of marketing technology – until you’re inclined to do more than consider a stay. You go ahead and reserve a room.

Oh, and you make Azure Tackert smile, because you just made her day.

Tackert founded All Things Hospitality to deliver marketing services for hotels across the United States and Canada.

Those services include digital advertising, website design and development, social media management, photography, collateral design and development, graphic design, search engine optimization, hosting ... you can pause to catch your breath now.

“You name it, we do it,” Tackert said.

“Hotel teams love working with us because we understand hospitality. And we work like a hospitality company – we’re all about service. If our clients aren’t happy, we’re going to work until they are happy.”

Tackert and her company have been in business since 2007. “In those eight years, all of our business has been the result of referrals,” she said. “I started the company in my South Texas home providing photography and revenue management services – two things I knew I was really good at – to two hotelier friends. Within a few months my husband Kelly, also in the hotel industry, left his fulltime job to join me. Now ATH has grown to 16 full time

52

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

employees and five specialty providers we use on contract for specific projects.”

Tackert has little trouble citing the key to that kind of success. “Our growth is 100 percent attributed to the hard work and dedication of our amazing team and loyal clients who have sent us more business over the years than any sales person ever could have,” she said.

She said that as digital marketing continues to expand and as the millennial generation starts to travel more, the hospitality marketing space is going to become even more dynamic. That’s especially good news for a company that has already positioned itself at the top of the marketing world, both in prestige and in practice. To wit: • It is a preferred photography provider for Marriott International and has photographed over 200 Marriott and Hilton branded properties.

• It is a preferred print, graphic design, social media and photography vendor for three of the largest hotel management companies in the United States.

• It has photographed hotels in all 48 continental United States and Alaska.

• It is on track to break $1 million in revenue in 2015 – from the $50,000 it enjoyed during the company’s first year in business. As a result, said Tackert, the future is especially exciting.

“Kelly and I look forward to continuing ATH’s growth and establishing even more exciting marketing services to help our clients reach tomorrow’s sophisticated traveler,” Tackert said.

For more: allthingshospitality.com.

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53

Picture-perfect moments

Photos courtesy of Alliance for Children

Featured guest Elizabeth Smart addresses the crowd at the Alliance for Children event.

Lee Jackson and Rhonda Jackson

Sally Brumbaugh, Elizabeth Quirk, Katie McCoy, Kay Granger, Reba Blevens and Rhonda Jackson

Kristin Vandergriff, Julie Evans and Karen Borta

Scene

Snapshots from the Alliance for Children event held at the Fort Worth Omni Hotel.

Mike Reinhardt and Julie Reinhardt

Valerie Skinner and Mark Skinner

Linda Timmons, Debbie Sullivan, Rene Reames and Bob Brown arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

55

Local Homes

Annually during the holidays, Stephen Zimmer’s home is the site of parties and family gatherings, where all guests get to revel in the beauty and warmth of Christmas cheer.

Home SWEET! Home Stephen Zimmer doesn’t just decorate for the holidays – he celebrates them elegantly and enthusiastically

W

hen Stephen Zimmer says this is his favorite time of the year, he doesn’t just utter the words. He proclaims them, and exclaims them, every year just before Thanksgiving, when he decorates his northwest Arlington dwelling in holiday grandeur.

From the front entrance to practically every nook throughout the five-bedroom home, Zimmer creates a winter wonderland for the many guests he expects to drop by over the next month or so. Some come in small bunches. More than a few gather in large 56

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

numbers at once. All of them are treated to sights and sounds that ultimately persuade them that Zimmer is right: This is a great time of year.

“Christmas has always been a special time for our family,” Zimmer said. “For the last 10 or so years until 2013, we would host a Christmas party for up to 150 friends and family with carolers, Santa Claus and lots of food and drink. In addition, for the last 12 years with three years off for remodeling or other reasons, we have hosted the Downtown Rotary’s Annual Christmas party for

The Zimmer home takes holiday elegance to a new level – from the special greeting guests receive from St. Nicholas to unique accents that highlight every room in the house.

Photos: MLS-Images

arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

57

This picture of the living area depicts a double bonus: a room with a view and a room full of viewable holiday accent items.

about 120 people, which I continue to this day. Clearly, the house of technology and business solutions for some of the larger corpohas to be decorated for these events. And like all other families, rations and government institutions in the world. we had to have a tree and stockings for the children as they were “I retired after 30 years at the end of 2001, after traveling exgrowing up. Now kids are out of the house, but some parties still tensively in my roles of managing partner for Latin America and go on.” then COO of the largest market unit, which sent me to Asia and Since his wife Carol’s passEurope in addition to North and ing in March 2013, Zimmer Latin America,” he said. “I have has lived in the home with his earned over 13 million American “best friend,” a 9-year-old malAdvantage miles, so it was nice tese-poodle named Max. But to live close to the DFW Internathey are rarely alone, given a tional Airport.” family tree that includes three Zimmer said his late wife Cardaughters and 10 grandchildren ol was very involved in the City who pay regular visits. of Arlington with the Boys and They and Zimmer’s friends Girls Club, the Arlington Life are treated to a special welcome Shelter, the Levitt Pavilion and during the holidays. “Our decomany other organizations. She rations are traditional,” he said. was honored with the Safe-HaVisitors to Stephen Zimmer’s home are given a “I would guess the most striking ven Volunteer of the Year award warm holiday welcome, even before they enter. decorations would be the tree for Arlington in 2012. itself and the large wreathes on “Since retiring, I have followed the front gate and the wreathes on the pool bridge.” her example by involvement with the Arlington Chamber of Com Zimmer’s flair for holiday revelry at home can be traced, in part, merce, the Levitt Pavilion, the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation to the fact that he wasn’t there a lot during his career with AccenAdvisory Board and the Youth Education Town, to name a few ture, which provides consulting, system building and outsourcing organizations,” he said. “Carol and I were both raised in Latin 58

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

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America and met in Caracas, Venezuela. We have three wonderful daughters who live in Dallas, Colorado Springs and San Antonio.

All three sons-in law and one daughter are medical doctors, and one daughter is a nurse.”

When family visits during the holidays, they enjoy the fruit of collaborative decorating effort. Real estate professional Michael Cunningham helped Carol select and assemble the Christmas decorations for years and continues to assist Stephen.

“The decorations often go up very early, even before Thanksgiving because our parties start in very early December,” Zimmer said.

“Only last year did we have a Thanksgiving theme until the day after Thanksgiving. As you can see from the pictures, this year my Thanksgiving luncheon [was] hosted to Christmas decorations.”

Even the bedrooms get special holiday treatment at Stephen Zimmer’s northwest Arlington dwelling. Still, most of the “oohs” and “aahs” from visitors to the home come when they take a look at the spectacular Christmas tree that anchors the living area.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

As is his holiday custom, Zimmer will do the Downtown Rotary Club’s Christmas party on Dec. 3, as well as entertain guests attending an office Christmas party for the Arlington Chamber of Commerce later in the month.

“I look forward to these occasions each year, and I believe the attendees do as well,” Zimmer said. “In the case of the Rotary Christmas party, I provide all the food and drinks, etc. but each attendee contributes $30 which goes towards the Webb Elementary Scholarship Fund. That scholarship fund provides every Webb student that graduates from Webb Elementary, and receives a high school diploma, a scholarship to attend a university or community college. So we can have fun and also benefit our community at the same time.”

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Honor Your Favorite Arlington ISD Teacher with a Nomination for the AWARE Foundation Award of Excellence!

The AWARE Foundation encourages innovation and excellence in AISD classroom instruction.

For each of the past 26 years, the AWARE Foundation has recognized outstanding AISD teachers at our annual spring banquet. Winners and runners-up receive unrestricted cash awards.

In the past three years, the AWARE Foundation has awarded more than $75,000 in cash and prizes!

Intent to Nominate Cards requested by December 16, 2015.

Nomination packets due by January 11, 2016.

Awards Banquet - May 10, 2016 Visit our website: www.awarefoundation.com for additional information.

Making Spirits Bright….

You are cordially invited to an Open House at the Arlington Life Shelter hosted by our Board Members. Come enjoy light refreshments and take a quick tour led by a resident.

Sunday, Dec. 6th 1:00pm-3:00pm Saturday, Dec. 12th 10:00am-12:00pm Sunday, Dec. 13th 1:00pm-3:00pm Saturday. Dec. 19th 10:00am-12:00pm

Holiday wish list and donation information available at www.arlingtonlifeshelter.org 325 W. Division, Arlington, TX 76011 62

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

817.548.9885

Picture-perfect moments

Photos courtesy of Sylvia Nichols

Carolyn Alexander, Marsha Tucker and Donna Terry Ruby Award winners Becky Nussbaum (Business/Industry), Sandy Mulcahy (education) and Karen Williams (Health/Social Service)

Polly Walton, Leah Atkins and Jacque Cummings

Linda Dipert and Lynne Prater

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Snapshots from the Christian Women’s Job Corp.

Ruby Awards luncheon.

Pat Gaultney and Patricia Meeks

Judy Duke, Stephanie Rampy and LuAnn Burroughs

Sandy Tribble, Mayor Jeff Williams and Ann Ferrell arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Education

Earning an ‘A-plus’ North Arlington schools – and surrounding businesses – are trending upward these days • By Michele Duskin

T

here is a renewed energy among schools in north Arlington that has a lot of people talking. Just ask Arlington ISD Board of Trustees President Jamie Sullins. “Our schools are doing some pretty spectacular things,” she said. “Combined with projects that are underway with the city, there is a great sense of revitalization going on right now in north Arlington and, it’s pretty exciting.”

For starters, the face of Lamar High School is evolving, under the leadership of Principal Andrew Hagman. “He is turning Lamar around,” said parent Sarah Block. “He loves this school. Being principal of Lamar is what he has always wanted to do.”

Hagman came to Lamar in August 2014 from his role as principal at Shackelford Junior High, just down the road. Prior to that he served as an assistant principal at Lamar, hoping to someday return in a bigger capacity.

Hagman is proud of Lamar’s recent accomplishments. After receiving an Academically Unacceptable score from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) in 2012, the school bounced back, earning a Met Standard rating this past spring. In addition, the school received academic distinctions in English/language arts, math and science.

Photos courtesay of Arlington ISD

Signs that the schools in north Arlington are headed in the right direction: (Left) Students at Lamar High School earned a Met Standard rating and received academic distinctions in English/Language arts, math and science this past spring. (Middle two photos) Nichols Junior High recently instituted the popular and successful Mustang Renaissance. Every six weeks, selected students are given “PRIDE” awards (Proudly Recognizing Individual Daily Efforts) in a pep rally-type event.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

“The students at Lamar have so many opportunities to be involved in a great number of academic and athletic programs that can help them achieve success in life,” said Hagman. “Those opportunities have always been there; it’s just all about raising the awareness and encouraging them to set goals.”

THESE OPPORTUNITIES include a health care rotations course that allows students to attend classes and accompany professionals on rotations at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital. Lamar also serves as an AVID National Demonstration School, as well as an International Baccalaureate campus.

Aware of the school’s long history and presence in Arlington, Hagman is “all about community involvement,” said Block.

“Parents and students always hear him refer to ‘the Lamar Way’, which is connecting with students and parents, and reconnecting with people and the community,” she said.

But Lamar is only a piece of the pie. Both Shackelford and Nichols Junior Highs earned five of seven distinctions from the TEA this year.

This achievement was particularly meaningful for Nichols. In 2013, the school was in severe academic trouble and was very close to being restructured. Julie Harcrow was hired as the new principal, and was given the task of turning the school around. “It took a real sense of teamwork,” said Harcrow.

“The faculty and staff were extremely dedicated, and they were willing to persevere through it all to make it happen,” she said.

ADDING TO THE success at Nichols is a program called Mustang Renaissance. Every six weeks, selected students are given “PRIDE” awards (Proudly Recognizing Individual Daily Efforts) in a pep rally-type event. Teachers recognize students for their progress in any given category, whether it is academics, citizenship, attendance or organization skills. “This has absolutely changed the climate and culture of our school,” Harcrow said.

A few miles west from Nichols is Butler Elementary. Principal Stacie Humbles and her staff at Butler are proud of all five

Kindergarten students and teachers at Jones Academy of Fine Arts and Dual Language.

distinctions earned from the TEA this year, making Butler the only elementary school in Arlington to do so. In addition, the school’s Destination Imagination (DI) program is making a name for itself.

DI is a program run by parent volunteers that allows a group of students to work together through a variety of problem-solving challenges. Teams then present their solutions at tournaments.

“Three years ago we opened the program exclusively to our gifted and talented students,” said Humbles. “We’ve gone from six teams to 16, and the program is now open to all interested students.

“Last year all teams made it to the State level, two teams made it to the Global level, and one of our teams placed fourth in Global.

It has really been a huge program for us.”

Along with the academic achievements, new programs and facilities are also underway. Longtime Arlington resident and community leader Steve Cavender has seen the highs and lows of

(Above) Butler Elementary School students who helped the school earn five distinctions from the TEA this year, making Butler the only elementary school in Arlington to do so. In addition, the school’s Destination Imagination (DI) program is making a name for itself.

arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Arlington over the years. “With the approval of the $663.1 million AISD bond package in 2014, we are now able to do things within our school district that have needed to be done for a long time,” he said.

One project included in the bond package is the building of a new elementary school on Baird Farm Road. Peach Elementary is scheduled to open in August 2016, and the AISD has formed a unique relationship with the Boys & Girls Club to include an after-school center in the new school.

“This first-of-its-kind partnership will provide AISD families with an on-campus option for after-school care focused on science, technology, engineering, art and math that is research-based and outcome-driven,” said AISD Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos.

“The vision of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington closely aligns with the district’s mission and will provide our students with access to academic, healthy lifestyle and character programs, as well as evening meals,” said Cavazos. A $650,000 grant from the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation is helping fund the project.

ANOTHER ONE-OF-A-KIND program making history is the Jones Academy of Fine Arts and Dual Language, located in what once was Roquemore Elementary School on Van Buren Drive.

Still in its first year of operation, the academy opened in August to a total of 197 kindergartners (this number includes a second campus housed in Corey Academy in south Arlington.) Students in this exclusive program spend half of their instructional days

in a Spanish-language-immersion classroom learning science and math, and the other half in an English-only classroom learning social studies and language arts. They also are exposed to 90 minutes of dance, theater, visual arts and music or piano each day.

“The Jones Academy was a collaboration between the city and the school district to transform a low-performing elementary school into a very desirable school,” said Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams.

THE FACILITY IS located near the future home of the Arlington Commons, a $200 million complex that will feature upscale, urban-style apartments on Lamar Boulevard, and not far from the Viridian master-planned development on North Collins.

Other projects helping to change the face of north Arlington include Trammell Crow Company’s commitment to plan an 18-plus-acre site for premier office space. Nearby, Fortune 500 Company D.R. Horton will be investing more than $20 million in a new headquarters.

Just north of I-30 on Collins Street, ground is being prepared for the building of Champions Park, a one-of-a-kind restaurant destination for Arlington, and earlier this year, General Motors announced its commitment to invest $1.4 million to its Arlington assembly plant.

“North Arlington has been stagnant for a while, but we’re playing catch-up,” said Cavender. “It’s about time.”

Image courtesy of City of Arlington

Commercial development, such as the soon-to-be constructed Champions Park at the northeast corner of I-30 and Collins Street and General Motors’ commitment to invest $1.4 million in the local plant, is helping change the face of north Arlington.

Photo: www.rts.ch

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

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For more information visit jgilligans.com arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

67

Tennis Tip Community Notebook

Education news

Photo: pinstopin.com

Winning the toss By properly positioning the ball in the path of the swing, you enhance your ability to hit great serves • By Lisa Osborn

T

he tennis shot I am most often asked about is the serve, which is arguably the most important shot for several critical reasons: (1) The serve starts the point; (2) the serve is the only shot when you can actually touch the ball; and (3) you have complete physical control over the shot because the opponent has not had the opportunity to affect the ball.

While players’ No. 1 question is about the serve, the aspect I speak about most frequently is the toss.

The goal for the toss is to position the ball in the path of the swing.

Players who are struggling with their serve are often adjusting their swing to an incorrect toss. Momentum on the serve is critical, and when a player interrupts that momentum to “chase” a bad toss, the fluidity is broken.

The body should be going up and forward to hit the ball, which means the toss should also be going up and forward. Keep your arm straight, but relaxed. Release the ball at eye level to keep the ball far enough in front of the body, without allowing it to move too far away.

Ball toss height is also key, with the goal to contact the ball at its peak. Try to position the ball higher than the top of the racquet, when extended, with your weight on the front foot. Some players toss very high (a couple of feet above the racquet). Others prefer a lower toss (just above the top of the extended racquet), coupled with a short, compact motion. Aside from other factors (wind), most players find a toss height between the two extremes usually works best.

If you are having trouble with your serve, stay encouraged, and start by checking your toss. With a small adjustment, you may recapture that winning serve.

Lisa Osborn is a USPTA Elite Professional at Arlington Tennis Center and Assistant Tennis Coach at Mansfield Legacy High School.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

Photo: Arlington ISD

Former and current Ashworth Elementary School principals, students, parents and more helped the school celebrate its 20th anniversary last month. The Mustang Chorale performed “America the Beautiful” and the school song, and several special guests spoke, including AISD Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos and Bruce Ashworth from Judge Clyde Ashworth’s family.

Arlington ISD

The AISD Instructional Technology department recently handed out 34 Transformation Through Innovation Grants totaling nearly $1 million at various Arlington ISD campuses.

Teachers and staff members were awarded these grants for their proposals for transforming their classrooms through innovative approaches to learning and technology use. Teachers and students will show off these innovative and creative approaches to learning in a Transformation Through Innovation Grant Showcase in the spring.

Mansfield ISD

A new partnership between Mansfield ISD and Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) will allow MISD juniors who rank in the top 25 percent of their class to earn automatic admission to PVAMU. Along with the guaranteed admission to PVAMU, each MISD high school will receive three $5,000 Opportunity Target High School scholarships to give to eligible students.

The official ceremony announcing the partnership took place last month. Afterward, all MISD high school band students were invited to Vernon Newsom Stadium to watch PVAMU’s award-winning band, The Marching Storm, perform on the field.

Each month, Mansfield ISD will be recognizing the work of a community partner that significantly contributes to the district. For the month of November, MISD recognized The Education Foundation.

The Foundation works to enhance education in MISD and increases private support for educational activities by awarding funds to teachers for innovative projects and programs that are not funded by tax dollars.

The Education Foundation started in the fall of 1998. It has awarded more than 1,100 grants; and in the spring of 2016, the organization will have raised more than $3 million in grants for district classrooms.

Park Place Motorcars has a new Mercedes-Benz dealership in Arlington – along with a new parts manager, Diki Sue Terry. Terry said she is excited about the new opportunity and the chance to take care of Arlington-area customers.

Meet the parts manager at Park Place Park Place Motorcars’ new Mercedes-Benz dealership recently opened at 4201 Beltway Place (off I-20, between Collins and Matlock). Here, we meet one of the employees at the new facility.

DIKI SUE TERRY is not your average working mom. In fact, she is one of the first female parts managers in the Park Place family of 18 luxury automobile dealerships.

“Park Place has a great way of treating their employees,” Terry said. “They invest in us with training courses in everything from Linked In to better communications … all through the Park Place University website.

They also train us to treat our clients with the utmost respect. Arlington has no idea how respectful we are to our clients.”

Terry grew up in Arlington and graduated from James W. Martin High School in 1993.

She started in a parts advisory position at Park Place in 2006. She was promoted to assistant parts manager within a year, and she was recently named parts manager for the new Arlington Mercedes-Benz dealership, which opened last month.

Terry knows that she has her work cut out for her. Mercedes-Benz is introducing 10 new vehicles in 2016, including a new 4-door mid-sized SUV, several new diesel models, a plug-in hybrid C-Class and a sleek new SLK roadster.

“As the technology advances in our vehicles, so do the components within them,” said Terry. “In parts today, you must train continually to keep pace. I’m privileged to work for a company and a manufacturer who support us with Mercedes-Benz Learning & Performance courses. We have quarterly training requirements that must

be met in order to reach the next level of certification.”

Terry said she had seven re-certifications just in the last quarter.

When asked what advice she would share with women considering a career in the automotive industry, Terry had an emphatic reply.

“Go for it!” she said. “Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) has a female manager in the area that encourages me. She said there are other female MBUSA parts managers in Florida. She thinks women make the best parts managers because we’re so detail-oriented.”

Diki Sue Terry and her husband Patrick have a 14-year-old daughter (Marianne) and a seven-year-old son (Michael).

For more information about Park Place Dealerships, visit parkplace.com.

New partnership aims to create safer neighborhoods THE CITY OF ARLINGTON is working to improve and expand its communication efforts with residents throughout Arlington by joining the private social network of Nextdoor.

Nextdoor is designed to be used by residents of a community, and its mission is to tap the power of technology to build stronger and safer neighborhoods.

The City of Arlington plans to share important news and emergency notifications that are relevant to specific neighborhoods, along with stories that would be beneficial to all Arlington residents.

The city’s staff will not be able to see any of the content on your neighborhood website except for the direct replies to its posts.

In addition to the City’s Office of Communications, Arlington Parks and Recreation will also join Nextdoor under the same account to offer information on upcoming events and programs the department has available to residents.

Arlington Police Department, Arlington Public Library and the City’s Garbage and Recycling are already members of Nextdoor.

For more, visit the Nextdoor website: nextdoor.com/about_us.

arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Christian Women’s Job Corps of Greater Arlington thanks you for your support of the 2015 Inaugural

Honoring Christian Women in the Greater Arlington Workplace Our grateful appreciation to these sponsors and donors:

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

Picture-perfect moments

Kate Grigal and Leslie Johnston Photos: Andrea Proctor

Linda Dipert, Bob Pruitt, Christy Underkoffer, Dan Dipert and Connie Gaunt

Tony Rutiglaino, Nicole Rutigliano and Beth Owens

Scene

Chris Hightower, Paula Hightower Pierson and Nancy Tice

Brian White, Lorie White and Kendall Quirk

Snapshots from the reception for Arlington Museum of Art’s winter exhibits and the Empowering Women Attorney’s Alliance luncheon.

Attorney Kimberly Fitzpatrick, Judge Susan McCoy, Justice Sue Walker, Justice Debra Lehrmann, Tarrant County District Attorney Sharen Wilson, Senator Konni Burton, Representative Stephanie Klick and attorney Melissa Kates arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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Bulletin Board

Open Arms (and a great big heart) OPEN ARMS FREE HEALTH CLINIC provides compassionate, quality, general medical care to those in North Texas who are uninsured or under insured.

Fran Martin, executive director of Open Arms (3921 W. Green Oaks Blvd., Suite D), said the clinic can provide care to all ages, but most patients are adults. Open Arms takes care of chronic disease and non-emergency acute care for those who have reduced access to care. Martin said the clinic provides all of its services free, and all care is given by a volunteer staff. The clinic is funded totally from donations and grants. “We also cover the malpractice insurance for any volunteer who has a license,” Martin said. “We are a registered 501 (c) (3) non-profit.”

Martin said Open Arms provides the following services: • Treatment of chronic illness – hypertension, diabetes, asthma are examples.

• Acute non-emergency problems – sore throats, ear aches, respiratory infections are examples.

• Controlling your Chronic Illness classes for patients who want to become more accountable for their chronic illness and commit to a 10-week class.

• A physical therapist.

• A social work student intern – to refer patients to needed community services.

• A children’s library – every child gets a chance to take home a book.

• Periodically, OAHC hosts Cooking Matters classes through partnership with Tarrant County Food Bank.

• In the spring it hosts a special day of caring for women, in conjunction with the Moncrief Cancer Center/UT Southwestern.

• Mammograms and pap smears are done by clinic providers and results are run by ProPath.

Martin said Open Arms doesn’t do emergency care or maternity care, and it doesn’t prescribe pain killers, sleeping pills, Xanax or controlled substances of any kind. It also doesn’t treat sexually transmitted diseases.

“Many of our patients have made us their medical home,” Martin said. “We help them control their illnesses to make it easier for them to keep or find jobs and become contributing members in the community. The clinic provides our patients access to needed medical care rather than going to the local emergency rooms. This, in turn, frees up the emergency rooms so they can care for the true emergencies.”

Martin said that when the staff thinks of the 9,000 patient visits to the clinic this year, “we are aware that each one of those people we have touched are a part of a family unit. So we are stretching our arms farther than just to those who enter the clinic.

“Even with all of this, we have more patients come to the clinic than is possible to see. Turning them away hurts so much!”

For more: openarmshealthclinic.org.

TH/Arlington Memorial Hospital earns high marks for its EHR processes

The Final Salute at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital ceremoniously recognizes veterans who have passed away at the hospital’s Hospice Unit.

Photo: Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital

Final Salute honors veterans

TO SHOW HONOR and gratitude to those who have served in the Armed Forces, Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital has established a new program that will respectfully pay homage to men and women who spend their last days of life at the hospital’s Hospice Unit.

The Final Salute, which began on Veterans Day, ceremoniously recognizes veterans who have passed away, and their family members. With the family’s consent, the ceremony involves a special route from the deceased patient’s room to a designated hospital exit. Before the official procession begins, designated hospital employees properly drape the patient’s body with the American flag. The hospital’s Honor Guard Escorts, composed of hospital staff and volunteers, silently exit the hospital. Before leaving, the veteran’s family receives the American flag, on behalf of their loved one. For more: TexasHealth.org/Arlington.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

TEXAS HEALTH Arlington Memorial Hospital recently achieved the premier award for electronic health record (EHR) adoption. Stage 7 represents the highest level on the Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model, which is used to track patient progress at hospitals all across the country.

Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS), the largest health information technology association in the nation, created the Stage 7 award in 2009. It recognizes hospitals where paper charts are no longer used to deliver patient care, with the goals of improving process performance, quality of care and patient safety through the complete use of the EHR. “We’re honored to be recognized with the Stage 7 Award for EHR implementation and utilization,” said Blake Kretz, Texas Health Arlington Memorial president.

“This is just another example of our commitment to and compassion for our patients. We will continue to focus on initiatives aimed to improve the technology we use, the quality of our care and the safety of our patients.”

With Stage 7, clinical information is accessible to all entities within a health information exchange network, which includes other hospitals, sub-acute facilities, employers, payers and patients.

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Health & Fitness

A golden anniversary Medical Center Arlington celebrates 50 years of volunteers – here are a few reasons why

F

wanted a steak. I ate the whole thing and didn’t have any more ifty years ago, Evva Morris was admitted to a small hospital pureed food. “ in Arlington and had such a positive experience that she She has no trouble talking now and eagerly shares her own wanted to give back. She assembled a group of volunteers experiences of hope and faith with patients and visitors at to help patients at the hospital, which eventually became Medical MCA, part of the HCA HealthCenter Arlington (MCA), a care organization.

342-bed acute-care hospital Kirby identifies with stroke serving Arlington, Grand victims and spends time with Prairie, Mansfield, Kentheir families offering support nedale and Cedar Hill. and insight. “I want to do for She is still volunteering others what they can’t do at that her time, her experience moment,” she said. “I want them and herself with patients to know that it’s not over. I have every week. been there, and I can recognize Morris isn’t the only one a stroke patient because I am a who gives of herself to help stroke survivor.

Medical Center Arlington “Volunteering takes patience, patients. Now, 62 seniors love and compassion,” Kirby conand 58 young people voltinued. unteer to assist patients, And even after 50 years of volnurses and staff with little unteer service at MCA, Morris tasks, escort patients, dehas no intention of ending her liver flowers and offer insupport of the patients and conformation and comfort at tinues to make handmade fabric the official hospital of the ponies for the littlest patients Texas Rangers. who visit Medical Center Arling One volunteer, Larry ton, offering them best wishes Horn, was so grateful to for a quick recovery – just as she the hospital that saved his brightens the days of every pabride’s life after a fall from tient, visitor and staff member a horse that he and his wife that she encounters at Medical joined the volunteer group Here some of the volunteers at Medical Center Arlington, which this Center Arlington. after her recovery. year is celebrating half a century of selfless devotion by local people who take on volunteer positions. They also help patients feel better “When people tell me they are “There is no better way with stellar gifts, such as these handmade ponies. retiring, I tell them to take one to spend your time than year to do everything on their volunteering,” Horn said. to-do list, then I want to talk “I once heard that volunwith them,” Morris said. “Volunteering is the next step after teering is at the core of all human beings, because no one gets retirement, because everyone has to be needed.” through life without others’ help. I truly believe that.”

After he retired from a career in institutional food brokering, Horn chose to live out those words through volunteering at MCA because he was able to work directly with people. His wife joined About Medical Center Arlington him, and they both give several hours every week serving others.

Medical Center Arlington (MCA) is 342-bed, acute-care hospital serving southern Esther Kirby came to volunteer at the hospital after spending Tarrant County. The full-service hospital is Tarrant County’s first TJC-certified Prithree months at MCA recovering from a stroke. mary Stroke Center, an accredited Cycle IV Chest Pain Center and Arlington’s only “I couldn’t talk, and they had me on pureed food,” Esther redesignated Level III Trauma hospital. MCA is known for trauma, stroke, cancer, membered. “One day I saw that they had t-bone steak and baked neurologic and gastrointestinal care and will deliver more than 4,500 babies in 2015. potatoes for the hospital dinner, so I indicated to my therapist I It is the official hospital of the Texas Rangers. MCA is an affiliate of HCA. 74

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

ARLINGTON PARKS & RECREATION PRESENTS:

OLDE TOWN CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR DEC. 4-5 • DOTTIE LYNN REC CENTER

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

DEC. 12 • 8-11 AM • CLIFF NELSON REC CENTER

For more info on both events, visit NaturallyFun.org or call 817-459-5474.

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75

Nightlife, etc.

Sights/Sounds

History, Mansfield-style

Your resource for stellar entertainment options in and around the city TRIVIA: Live trivia with the PubGuys When: Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Where: World of Beer (5005 S. Cooper St.) Show time: 7 p.m.

Notes: Every Wednesday is trivia night. Bring your smart friends for the answers, and your rich friends for the tab.

For more: worldofbeer.com/Locations COMEDY: Live at the Arlington Improv When: Dec. 3-6, 10-13, 18-20, 31-Jan. 3 Where: The Arlington Improv (309 Curtis Mathes Way, #147) Show times: Check website for show times Notes: This month’s featured entertainers include Tony Rock (Dec. 3-6), John Witherspoon (Dec. 10-13), Bruce Bruce (Dec. 18-20) and Jay Phillips (Dec. 31-Jan. 3) For more: ow.ly/Uevk1 THEATER: Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” When: Dec. 4-20 Where: Theatre Arlington (305 W. Main St.) Show times: 7:30 p.m. on Friday; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday; 2 p.m. on Sunday Notes: This family holiday classic, based on the beloved 1954 Paramount Pictures film tell the tale of veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, who have a successful song-and-dance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which happens to be owned by their former army commander. This timeless, heartwarming musical adaptation features 17 Irving Berlin classics, including the classic “White Christmas.”

For more: theatrearlington.org

MUSIC: Live at The Grease Monkey When: Dec. 4, 5, 12, 19 Where: The Grease Monkey (200 N Mesquite) Show time: 8:30 p.m.

Notes: This month’s list of performers includes Devin Leigh (Dec. 4), Jim Bowies (Dec. 5), Acoustic Hash (Dec. 12) and Big Joe Walker (Dec. 19).

For more: greasemonkeyburgers.com MUSIC: Burk Collins Country - 2015 Christmas Show When: Dec. 5, 12 Where: Arlington Music Hall (224 North Center St.) Show times: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Notes: It’s a “wonderful life” when you’re inside Arlington Music Hall enjoying the venue’s Christmas shows. Share an evening of holiday magic with friends and family and enjoy breathtaking decorations, magnificent entertainers, elegant costumes and an outstanding band. Oh, and don’t forget Santa; he just might drop in, too.

For more: arlingtonmusichall.net MUSIC: Kim Walker-Smith’s “When Christmas Comes” Tour When: Dec. 11 Where: Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie (1001 Performance Place, Grand Prarie) Show times: 7 p.m.

Notes: Walker-Smith has quickly become one of the strongest voices in Christian music. She and her husband Skyler lead worship and teach around the world.

For more: verizontheatre.com

Country Fest is coming to Verizon

Lee Brice is one of the featured artists at the KSCS Country Fest.

Photo: leebrice.com

IF COUNTRY MUSIC gets your toes tapping, you won’t want to miss the New Country 96.3 KSCS Country Fest at 5:15 p.m. Dec. 12 at Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie.

Scheduled artists include Lee Brice, Tyler Farr, Dan + Shay, Canaan Smith and Jamie Lynn Spears.

For more: verizontheatre.com

THEATER: “It’s a Wonderful Life” When: Dec. 4-5 Where: Mainstage Classic Theatre (1557 E. Broad St., Suite 103, Mansfield) Show times: 7 p.m. on Friday; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday Notes: This is the heartwarming saga of George Bailey, whose dreams of escape and adventure have been repeatedly quashed by notions of family obligation and civic duty. It is Christmas Eve, and George’s guardian angel, Clarence, comes to save him from despair and to remind him what the world would have been like had he never 76

been born and that this is indeed a “wonderful life.”

For more: mainstageclassictheatre.org

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

MUSIC: The TEN Tenors When: Dec. 18 Where: Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie (1001 Performance Place, Grand Prarie) Show times: 8 p.m.

Notes: The TEN Tenors are one of Australia’s more successful touring entertainment groups of all time, with more than 90 million people worldwide witnessing their unmistakable charm, camaraderie and vocal power.

For more: verizontheatre.com MUSIC: Manheim Steamroller Christmas When: Dec. 20 Where: Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie (1001 Perfor-

mance Place, Grand Prarie) Show times: 7 p.m.

Notes: Over his 28-year career, Chip Davis has sold more than 36 million albums. Of those, more than 20 million albums have been the Christmas music of Davis’ group Mannheim Steamroller. On this year’s tour, the group will debut selections from the new CD, “Christmas Song!” Plus, they’ll play favorites from six multi-platinum albums in an extravagant multi-media family friendly event.

For more: verizontheatre.com

Knowledge FOR A lifetime

STRENGTH | WISDOM | COURAGE | VIGILANCE

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Arlington Classics Academy is tuition free and open to all families seeking a challenging educational experience for their children. High expectations are set for our students as well as our staff in order to provide a challenging, enriching and rewarding educational experience. Arlington Classics Academy’s classical curriculum includes the fundamentals of language arts, science, and social studies, accelerated math and reading programs, Spanish, physical education, art and music.

2800 W. Arkansas Lane. • ARLINGTON, TX 76016 • 817-274-2008 // 5200 S. Bowen Road • ARLINGTON, TX 76017 • 817-303-1553

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AN EXEMPLARY CHOICE IN PUBLIC EDUCATION

Donnie Ray Albert, baritone DECEMBER 17, 2015 | DECEMBER 19, 2015

J. STRAUSS II Treasure Waltz WENDEL Jerusalem of Gold COLERIDGE-TAYLOR Christmas Overture ANDERSON Sleigh Ride Plus lots of holiday favorites and our Annual Carol Sing-along!

Performances are on Thursday at 7:30PM Arlington Music Hall 224 N. Center St. Arlington, TX 76011

Performances are on Saturday at 8:00PM Irving Arts Center | Carpenter Hall 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd.

Irving, TX 75062

www.symphonyarlington.org

www.lascolinassymphony.org

817-385-0484

972-252-4800

arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

77

Speaking of Sports

Poetry in motion A lyrical tribute to highlights we have shared with a pair of our favorite neighbors • By John Rhadigan

F

My tradition of re-writing “A Visit from St. Nicholas” started in 1998, when I closed that version with these lines: “I saw this Christmas through eyes that are two, which meant lots of Barbie and Winnie the Pooh.

She gave me this Pooh tie, her eyes filled with pride, so excited to give it that her dad almost cried.”

78

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

or most of us the Christmas season is full of family traditions. One of the traditions in our family is that dad re-writes the Clement Clarke Moore poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” Better known by its colloquial title “Twas the Night before Christmas,” the poem was first published in 1823. It is called “the best known verses ever written in America.” It is also credited with shaping our current view of Santa Claus.

My tradition of re-writing it started in 1998 – I remember the year because I so clearly remember the final stanza of my first re-write. That year I wrote a version of this poem that was the entire sportscast on NBC5. Hey – if you have to work on Christmas, you might as well make it fun. The end of that one said: “I saw this Christmas through eyes that are two, which meant lots of Barbie and Winnie the Pooh.

She gave me this Pooh tie, her eyes filled with pride, so excited to give it that her dad almost cried.”

For each of the past 18 years I have paid tribute to Clement Clarke Moore by writing something that sounds like his original. Since I am a sportscaster, it always has a sports theme.

Since I am not a poet, it is never as good as the original. But if imitation is the highest form of flattery, here is this year’s flattery, Mr. Clarke Moore: ‘Twas the month before Christmas, and all through the town, the sports fans all made a delirious sound.

The teams from North Texas were the cause of this glee Let’s take a look back, with a nice tour guide: Me. The children who wondered “Were the Cowboys once good?” saw America’s team be right where it should.

Against the Lions they made a rare playoff appearance.

And won the first game, thanks to pass interference.

The win earned a trip to the oft-frozen tundra, and the Cowboys’ old faithful all started to wonder, Would Green Bay winter weather be all that wretched?

Would the refs ever rule that Dez really did catch it?

When out in Surprise there arose such a clatter:

A Prince who’s now healthy and a heck of a batter.

Hurt all last year, was his talent concealed, or was this new slimmed down version the real Prince Fielder?

The season was feeling like such deja vu.

A shoulder stopped Holland; an elbow stopped Yu. But they threw in no towels and got a kick in the fanny from the new man at the helm, a guy they call Banny.

At the end of one month they were 8 & 16.

We braced for a season that would be long and lean.

But what to my wondering eyes would appear: an ace at the deadline signed for more than one year.

Thanks to the record and experience of Cole the Rangers got on a great late season roll.

They got hot in August and, yes, won the West.

But in the playoffs proved an inhospitable guest.

They went to Toronto and won two straight games, so we cheered and applauded and called out their names.

Now Elvis! Now Rougie!

Now Moreland! Now Choo!

On Beltre! On Delino!

On Josh version two!

Now catch the ball! Throw the ball!

Hit the ball, all!

They’ll speak not a word but go back to their work and try to forget that Joey Bats jerk.

Next spring will be fun, and so will the summer.

We’ll keep fingers crossed that the end’s not a bummer.

The fans in this town truly are blessed!

The Cowboys and Rangers make us puff up our chest Globe Life with its brick and the Jerry-world chrome are the two greatest houses in our Arlington home.

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

DECORATOR’S WAREHOUSE

Holiday Lights PARADE! Sat., Dec. 5

Downtown Arlington Entertainment at Levitt Pavilion @ 2 p.m.

• Parade starts at 6 p.m.

• Lighting of the Viridian Christmas Tree after the Parade • Visit with Santa after Parade!

TREE LIGHTING SPONSOR: JINGLE BELL SPONSOR: IN KIND SPONSORS: FOUNDER’S PLAZA

title SPONSOR: SNOWMAN SPONSORS: Frost Bank • University of Texas Arlington REINDEER SPONSORS: Affiliated Bank Shannon Gracey Ratliff & Miller LLP

• Divorce • Children Issues • Collaborative Law • Grandparents • Mediations • Board Certified Family Law Attorney & Mediator

SNOWFLAKE SPONSORS: Arlington Board of Realtors The Duke Family First Baptist Church Arlington Oncor Electric • Sa-So The Stubbs Family • Arlington Today

For more info visit 817-572-9900 • arlingtondivorces.com

holidaylightsparade.com arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

79

Events, etc.

Itinerary

History, Mansfield-style

Your official Arlington/Mansfield/Kennedale/SW Grand Prairie guide to fun (and the like) Dec. 1-Jan. 16 What: Ringside: Memories of World Class Championship Wrestling Where: University of Texas Arlington Library (702 Planetarium Place) When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

In a nutshell: The wrestlers. Their extravagant costumes. Overly exuberant fans yelling for their favorites. The referee who wasn’t entirely necessary. The old-time arenas that smelled of sweat. It’s the staple of World Class Championship Wrestling, and the focus of a new exhibit at The University of Texas at Arlington Libraries Special Collections.

For more: (817) 272-3393 Dec. 1-Feb. 21 What: Modern Masters from the Guild Hall Collection: Warhol, Pollock, Lichtenstein, Rauschenberg, de Kooning, Motherwell Where: Arlington Museum of Art (201 W. Main St.) When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday In a nutshell: This exhibition will feature work by 60 artists and explore traditional mediums of art from “outside the box” and show how the art world embraced the work that represents a movement that changed the face of fine art in America.

For more: arlingtonmuseum.org

Dec. 4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 26-27 What: Planetarium Shows Where: University of Texas Arlington Planetarium (700 Planetarium Place) When: Check website for show times In a nutshell: The November schedule at one of North Texas’ premier planetariums features the following programs: “Laser Zeppelin,” “Season of Light,” “One World, One Sky,” “Cosmic Colors,” “Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon,” “Pink Floyd The Wall” and “Spacepark 360: Infinity.”

For more: uta.edu/planetarium/shows Dec. 5 What: Arlington Volksmarch Where: Arlington Visitor Information Center (1905 E. Randol Mill Road) When: 9:30 a.m.

In a nutshell: Volksmarch is a German word for “Walk of the People.” This walk is on a measured route of trails near Globe Life Park and is open to anyone who would like to enjoy a morning of exercise and fellowship.

Runners can bring their dogs along for the walk, too, provided they keep them on a leash.

For more: (817) 847-5185

Cotton Bowl to pave the way to a title

The Baylor Bears played in last year’s best bowl game – the Good Year Cotton Bowl.

Photo: goodyearcottonbowl.com

LAST YEAR’S NCAA College Football Playoff championship was decided in Arlington. This year, the city figures to be prominent in determining the title again, when the Good Year Cotton Bowl hosts a semifinal game on Dec. 31 at AT&T Stadium. Two of the four finalists will battle for the chance to play for the big trophy.

For more: goodyearcottonbowl.com.

Dec. 3, 8, 13, 21, 30 What: University of Texas Arlington basketball Where: College Park Center When: See below for tipoff times In a nutshell: The UTA Mavericks’ men’s team has home games this month against the University of North Texas (Dec. 3 at 7 p.m.), Bradley (Dec. 8 at 7 p.m.), Sul Ross State (Dec. 21 at 7 p.m.) and Georgia State (Dec. 30 at 7 p.m.). The women will host Western Kentucky (Dec. 13 at 2 p.m.) and Georgia State (Dec. 30 at 5 p.m.)

For more: utamavs.com Dec. 4 What: UIL Texas football playoffs – Round 4 Where: AT&T Stadium When: Games will be played throughout the day In a nutshell: The state with the best football will showcase the best football teams 80

during the 2015 playoffs – and especially during the all-day extravaganza featuring playoff teams from several classes. AT&T Stadium has become home to postseason high school football action at its best, and this day gives fans a great chance to see why Texas is “football country.”

For more: attstadium.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

Dec. 6 What: Chocoholic Frolic Where: Lone Star Park (1000 Lone Star Parkway Grand Prairie) When: 9 a.m. for the 5k; 10 a.m. for the 10k In a nutshell: Love chocolate? This run is for you!

The Chocoholic Frolic 5k/10k is full of fun for all kinds of racers. Are you competitive? The 5k and 10k are chip timed, and you will be rewarded with chocolate at the finish line. Just want to take your sweet time?

Run, jog, or walk your way through these courses and enjoy a chocolate stop.

Kids can join in, too. Each kid receives a race shirt, tote and a finisher cookie. The event ends with melted chocolate and treats for dipping at the finish line. Each participant will receive a technical quarter zip jacket, race tote, and a Chocoholic Frolic Finisher Bar. For more: (817) 847-5185; chocoholicfrolic.com Dec. 19 What: Dallas Cowboys football Where: AT&T Stadium When: Check website for game times In a nutshell: This month, the Cowboys host the New York Jets on Dec. 19 as they try to keep their National Football League playoff hopes alive against one of the better defensive teams in all of football.

For more: dallascowboys.com

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arlingtontoday.com • December 2015 • ARLINGTON TODAY

81

Finish Line

Christkindl!

Exciting new experiences are now underway at the Texas Christkindl Market • By Richard Greene

Y

ear five of the Texas Christkindl Market is underway with some surprises for visitors throughout the country. The Arlington Convention and Visitor’s Bureau has taken over management of the event and introduced some new activities and events to make the whole experience even more memorable for area families to enjoy.

Whether it’s listening to a holiday adventure during storytelling, riding the carousel horses or choosing to take the reins on the real thing at the pony rides, the new Kinder Market gives families an opportunity to enjoy the holidays together and build traditions to last a lifetime.

Children (and their parents) can indulge in a winter wonderland experience by playing in the Snow Playground and Snow Throw, presented

by Peerless Productions. Take your turn to build your own snowman Photo: TXChristkindl or take a shot throwing a snowball – it’s all a part of the fun you can have this year Fridays though Sundays during the market.

For a sweet treat, creative hands can design their own delicacy during the magical Gingerbread Haus Decorating Workshop from The Cakery. After putting on the finishing touches of their house, guests can take their creations home for a special souvenir.

A timeless holiday tradition, puppets bring the magic of theater alive with North Pole Texas on the Marionette Stage. Through specially designed wooden puppets, Sweet treats are a big talented performers take guests on part of Christkindl Market. a tour of the North Pole, including Santa’s workshop, and introduce them to penguins, elves, dancing snowmen and more. Photos with the puppets complete this experience.

And no trip to the Texas Christkindl Market would be complete without a visit to Saint Nicholas (Sankt Nikolaus), the patron saint of children, sailors, students, teachers and merchants. Although legend has it that he brings children gifts on Dec. 6, guests can stop anytime throughout the market at his K. Hovnanian Homes-built Santa Haus to meet St. Nick.

One of the event’s more cherished activities is the Children’s Lantern Parade. According to the legend, the parade recognizes the generosity of Martin, a 4th century Roman soldier who on one late, freezing cold evening was approached by a poor, scantily clothed beggar. Martin, who had nothing to give to the man, tore his military cloak in half to share with the man to shield him from the cold. Paying homage to his pure act of 82

ARLINGTON TODAY • December 2015 • arlingtontoday.com

selflessness and work on the behalf of the poor, children light lanterns in the late evenings in search of St. Martin and a chance to catch a glimpse of the giving man.

Of course, the cornerstone of the market is its vendors. The market provides a unique holiday shopping experience, where guests can select handmade goods, décor and ornaments that cannot be found anywhere else besides the market. Included in the mix is the only place to purchase exclusive Kathe Wohlfahrt merchandise and designs from the iconic Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Village.

With classic German products such as nutcrackers, cuckoo clocks and beer steins marking the path, a walk through the market will feel just like a shopping experience from the original Christkindl Market in Nuremberg, Germany. Many vendors also demonstrate at the market how their handicrafts are made, and then can be taken directly from the hut.

There are 12 food and beverage outlets where you can indulge in all manner of German cuisine, including strudel, crepes, brats, Gluhwein, potato pancakes, candy and caramel apples and more.

While parking and admission to the market is free, there are modest charges for some of the events in the Kinder Market and Children’s Lantern Parade. Check the website for complete details, including dates/hours: txchristkindlmarket.com.

The relationship between Arlington and its sister city, Bad Konigshofen, inspired the Texas Christkindl Market to commemorate its first magical season in 2011. With several markets all over Europe for the holidays, the Texas Christkindl Market also works with its partner Christmas city, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, to bring the same wonderful magic and feeling to Texas.

Located on the north side of Globe Life Park in Arlington, it’s a destination easily reached from anywhere in the Metroplex, and it continues through Dec. 23.

If you haven’t made Christkindl part of your traditional celebration of the Christmas season, this year would be a great time to begin.

Richard Greene served as Arlington’s mayor from 1987-1997 and currently teaches in the University of Texas Arlington’s graduate program in the College of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs.

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