October 2020

THE ANNUAL WOMEN IN BUSINESS ISSUE October 2020

your community • your magazine

Today

The Family Law Firm of

DONNA J.

SMIEDT

Serving Arlington, Mansfield, Kennedale and SW Grand Prairie

Winner 2018-2020 Readers’ Choice

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Your yearly mammogram can't wait.

Keeping your routine is still essential.

For women over 40, your annual screening mammogram is your best defense against breast cancer.

Even if the experience is a little different this year. For your convenience, we have 17 locations across DFW. And, as always, we have protocols in place designed around your safety. To learn more, go to TexasHealth.org/WithYou. Texas Health is right there with you. Whatever comes.

Schedule your mammogram today.

855-821-4034 TexasHealth.org/BreastCare Doctors on the medical staffs practice independently and are not employees or agents of Texas Health hospitals or Texas Health Resources. Š 2020

Excellence in Action

E

xcelencia in Education has named The University of Texas at Arlington’s University

Crossroads outreach and community engagement program one of five national finalists for the 2020 Examples of Excelencia award in the category of community-based organizations.

Honored for strategies that advance equity for Latino students, UTA University Crossroads is one of 20 overall finalists from 112 submissions in four categories. Entrants represented 24 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

All finalists will be featured in Excelencia in Education’s Growing What Works Database, the only national online, searchable

independent school districts, charter schools, higher education

database for institutional leaders, funders, and policymakers

institutions, chambers of commerce, faith-based organizations,

interested in identifying best practices for Latino students.

professional associations, corporations, and media outlets.

“Excelencia in Education is the gold standard for excellence

Its awareness, readiness, and access offerings are free and

among Hispanic-Serving Institutions throughout the country,”

available to all students. About 75% of those served are Latino,

says Michele Bobadilla, UTA’s senior associate vice president for

according to Bobadilla, who founded University Crossroads in

outreach and community engagement and assistant provost for

1988 and continues to direct the enterprise.

Hispanic student success.

Last year, University Crossroads served more than 41,000

University Crossroads provides access to and success in higher

North Texas students in grades 6-12. The program also helped

education through a variety of academic opportunities and

more than 3,000 students gain acceptance to a postsecondary

enrichment experiences. Based in Dallas, the award-winning

education program.

program collaborates with more than 100 partners, including

UTA is a Hispanic-Serving Institution and ranks among the top 20 universities nationally for the number of bachelor’s and master’s degrees awarded to Hispanic students, according to the 2020 edition of Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine.

“UTA and University Crossroads are paving the path to higher education throughout the K-16 pipeline,” Bobadilla says.

“Making the dream of earning a college degree a reality changes the trajectory of a family for generations.”

LEARN MORE AT UTA.EDU.

UTA.EDU

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The group offers state-of-the-art female services at two locations in Arlington. They provide all obstetrical and gynecological surgical services at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital which is the premier community hospital in the city. Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital was awarded the American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet Status in 2017.

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Contents

ON THE COVER

October 2020 • Volume 7 • Issue 10

HIGHLIGHTS 24 44

48

The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt has been successfully serving Arlington and Tarrant County clients for the past two and a half decades.

Story, page 26

DEPARTMENTS 50 24 Play ball!

The 2020 World Series will be played this month at Globe Life Field.

Starting Line 10 This ‘n Data 12 • Around Town 20 Scene 22, 54, 64 • Style 52 Bulletin Board 66 • Keen Cuisine 68 Speaking of Sports 70 • Itinerary 72 Finish Line 74

40 Worthy causes

These local people have stepped up to do important things in the community.

44 Behind the wheels

IN THIS ISSUE

Here’s how a classic French automobile has been made to look brand new.

48 Calibrating COVID

A UTA biologist explores the origins of the coronavirus.

50 Home SWEET! Home

Mansfield Mayor David Cook and his wife Tonya have a beautiful new abode.

56 A tale of two churches

Two local places of worship are celebrating 150th anniversaries this year.

58 Yee haw!

The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo is heading to Arlington.

62 Travel

Check out 8 great fall outdoor getaways that aren’t very far away from here.

8

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Our annual Women in Business section spotlights people who are making a difference at various local enterprises.

Story, page 28

•

STARTING LINE your community • your magazine

EXECUTIVE BOARD Executive Publisher Judy M. Rupay

A time to celebrate

CEO Richard Greene

O

ne of the more memorable moments from a college career that started and ended too long ago to be referred to as recent history was born in a class called “Film Appreciation.” I was big on “appreciation” classes, back in the day. Indeed, I appreciated film, music and theater before my days at Good Old BU were concluded – not so much because I really appreciated those things but because I generally could ace those courses. I once asked if I could major in “appreciation” and certainly didn’t appreciate the response of the academic advisor askee. I’ll admit it: I can become peevish when a person guffaws and mockingly shakes his head at me.

Anyway, back to Dr. Porter’s Film Appreciation course. It was fascinating from Day One. We got to watch classic flicks, at least once a week. We got to discuss why they were great movies. We might even have taken a test to determine if we knew just what a gaffer does; I don’t remember.

Yale But I do recall the spring afternoon in Youngblood 1977 when the good professor uttered Editor what might be the most fascinating proclamation I’ve ever heard: “Time,” he said, “is a rather nebulous concept.”

Since that day I have encountered my fair share of nebulous concepts (i.e., the husband-and-wife dynamic whereby the words “I don’t care where we go to eat” mean “I really do care where we go to eat, and you had better choose it”). But, for some reason, I can’t seem to attach a nebulosity factor to most of my time – and certainly not to the recent past.

For example, this issue marks the beginning of our eighth year as a local publishing entity. Well, that’s what we were when we started; now we’re the publication of record for the Arlington/Mansfield/Grand Prairie area. But, regardless of definition, we’re eight years into the process – nothing nebulous about it. Further, over that time, we’ve given you 82 chances to celebrate this region. And then we’ve recorded your celebrations. You can literally look it up if you don’t believe me. Take that, you nebulous time, you!

In this particular issue, we’re recording a LOT of celebrating. There is a section devoted to Women in Business that starts on page 28. Two pages prior, we revel in the news that the World Series is coming to our fair burg; a few pages after that, we note the same about one of the biggest rodeos in the country.

We have four stories devoted to the remarkably altruistic nature of local folks, another that shows how a University of Texas at Arlington biologist is getting to the roots of COVID-19, and yet another about the fact that 150 years ago, two local churches first opened their doors. And that’s not even taking into account the staple “celebrating” of cool cars and devastatingly decorative dwellings. Yep, I’m pretty proud of this issue.

That’s the quote you can jot down in your notebook, by the way.

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

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

and follow us on Twitter

Today

and Instagram

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

Copyright 2020 Arlington Today, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without permission of the publisher. The inclusion of advertising is considered a service to readers and is not an endorsement of products. Basic subscriptions are $33.95 for 12 issues.

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

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

Phone number: (817) 303-3304

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The Law Offices of Stephanie A. Foster, P.C. Deciding to divorce is one of the most important decisions a person can face so it makes sense to know your options. One option is traditional courtroom litigation. Another option is collaborative divorce.

Although attorney Stephanie A. Foster is prepared to be the warrior in your courtroom battle as she has been in thousands of Tarrant County divorce cases over the past 28 years, her preference is to be the peacemaker in your interest-based negotiations through the dignified, private, child-protecting process known as collaborative divorce which involves no court.

Stephanie A. Foster is confident that the collaborative process is a powerful way to generate creative solutions in family law disputes while minimizing financial and emotional damage to the couple and their children all the while promoting post-divorce psychological and financial health of the restructured family.

As a family law mediator and one of the first Tarrant County attorneys trained in collaborative law, attorney Stephanie A. Foster will help you navigate through your divorce options and zealously represent you through the process of your choice.

Contact attorney Stephanie A. Foster today to discuss your options.

One option is traditional courtroom litigation.

Another option is collaborative divorce.

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arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

11

•

THIS ‘N DATA

‘SANDRA BROWN’S BIGGEST BOOK YET!’ isn’t an overstatement here, given that this marketing device promoting the Arlington writer’s newest work covers a 65-foot x 83-foot corner space outside Penn Station at 33rd and 7th Avenue in New York City.

And, in fact, the novel may yet become Brown’s most-successful book – husband Michael proudly notes that “Thick As Thieves” has become Sandra’s 72nd consecutive New York Times Bestseller.

THE BEACON RECREATION CENTER OPENS AT WEBB COMMUNITY PARK

T

he City of Arlington and Arlington Parks and Recreation last month officially opened The Beacon Recreation Center in southeast Arlington.

The Beacon at Webb Community Park (1100 Mansfield Webb Road), offers residents a range of amenities both inside and out for fitness and fun. The design features a lighted, two-story atrium, which provided inspiration for the center’s name. The Center provides a range of indoor options, including volleyball, pickleball and basketball courts, along with a weight room, fitness studio, community room, indoor track, and kids club center. Outdoor amenities include a turf workout space, Aire Fitness pod, splash pad and playground.

For more information about the award-winning parks and recreation amenities available across The American Dream City, please visit arlingtontx.gov/parks.

A STAR ON THE RISE:

KATIE KELLY

A

rlington’s Katie Kelly last month made her Indie Film debut playing the role of Kristen McKusker in “Sno Babies.” The film, directed by Bridget Smith and written and produced by Mike Walsh, follows the story of a teenage girl who can’t escape the dark secrets of her heroin addiction.

“It was an honor for me to play a role where I had the opportunity to shed light on the national Opioid addiction crisis,” Kelly says.

For more on Kelly: shorturl.at/xNXY2.

12

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Shereka Wright is the new women’s basketball coach at UTA.

SHEREKA WRIGHT GETS THE UTA JOB

F

ormer WNBA player and Vanderbilt Associate Head Coach Shereka Wright was recently named UTA’s 10th head women’s basketball coach.

Wright – a Texas High School Hall of Fame member and former longtime assistant coach at Texas Tech – was the 2000 National Player of the Year her senior season at Copperas Cove High School after averaging 25 points and 10 rebounds per game.

“I am so excited and blessed to be named the head coach at the University of Texas at Arlington,” Wright says. “It’s a dream come true to return to my home state.

Thanks to Dr. Lim, Jim Baker and the entire selection committee for entrusting me with this tremendous responsibility. Everyone, get ready for an exciting women’s basketball experience! Mav Up!” Wright was introduced to the Lady Mavs on a virtual call. She replaces Krista Gerlich, who went to Texas Tech in August.

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13

•

THIS ‘N DATA

s

Photo: Enew

LEVITT MOVES STYX CONCERT TO MAY 14TH

T

MAREN MORRIS NAMED FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR AT THE 2020 CMA AWARDS PROGRAM

o safely address the fallout of the pandemic, the Levitt Pavilion Arlington and Styx made arrangements to move the rock group’s paid concert from Oct. 10 to May 14, 2021.

“Moving the concert to next year will allow us to have a better show and concert experience for everyone while raising money to help pay for our free concerts that everyone can enjoy,” says Letatia Teykl, executive director of Levitt Pavilion Arlington.

For tickets: levittpavilionarlington.org.

A

rlington’s country music superstar Maren Morris was named the “Female Artist of the Year” during last month’s 2020 ACM Awards in Nashville, Tenn. In addition, Morris was honored for “Music Event of the Year” for her appearance on Miranda Lambert’s “Fooled Around and Fell In Love.”

While the awards were noteworthy, so, too, was the performance of her single, “To Hell And Back,” during the awards show and pictured above. It was one of her first live singing efforts since welcoming her first child, son Hayes Andrew, with husband Ryan Hurd earlier this year.

The “Female Artist of the Year” award is just one of the highlights of a landmark year for Morris, who has broken records across the board with her now Triple Platinum-certified hit “The Bones” – even while taking time off to have her son. Prior to the coronavirus pandemic taking a swath out of live entertainment, she also played her biggest show to date to more than 60,000 fans at the Houston rodeo.

Aside from the maternity leave and, like all live performers, having to put touring on something of a hiatus, Morris has still managed to stay in the spotlight, as it were. Recently, she shared two new tracks, “Just for Now” (recorded during the HERO sessions and co-written with her husband Ryan Hurd and longtime collaborator Busbee who tragically passed away last year) and “Takes Two” (recorded during the sessions for her record-shattering 2019 album “GIRL” and co-written with Sarah Aarons and Greg Kurstin, the songwriters she collaborated with on the hit single “GIRL”). Additionally, she was nominated for five 2020 ACM Awards in all.

14

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

RAISE YOUR HAND if you attended a University of Texas at Arlington football game at Arlington Stadium. You would have done it sometime between 1970 and 1976, and, if you did, you likely sat in the outfield bleachers of the ballpark, which was reconfigured to put the playing surface in the outfield. For those keeping score at home, the Mavericks went 21-54 during the Arlington Stadium days.

Students first. Excellence always.

That’s the

MAVERICK IMPACT

Open for registration and enrollment now!

|

uta.edu/admissions

We’re open for business!

Arlington Today Ad 8x4.8125 October 2020.indd 1

9/15/20 1:36 PM

To All the Dedicated Insurance Agents...

Thank You! FOR YOUR DEDICATION AND HARD WORK BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER COVID

We forget that Insurance Agents have been in the trenches taking care of customers, holding hands and healing hearts through this crisis.

We are dedicated human beings that are dedicated to an industry that protects people and families every day. No matter if you are Allstate, State Farm, Farmers, Liberty Mutual we have all been there for our clients.

Thank your Insurance Agent today for being there for you and your family! arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

15

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THIS ‘N DATA #atpetofthemonth

M

ary Nelle Cravens was announced as Miss Cinderella at the 60th annual Cinderella Ball held at Esports Stadium Arlington last month. In earning the title, Cravens raised $57,598.11 – and the entire field garnered $308,704.74 – in donations that benefit the Arlington programs of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County.

With the 2020 totals, the Cinderella Ball, hosted and managed by the Ladies Auxiliary of Arlington and the city’s oldest continuing social charitable event, has raised $12,861,490 for the Boys & Girls Clubs over the past six decades.

Other honorees at this year’s ball, which was moved from April to September because of the coronavirus, included: • First runner–up Alex LeeAnn Richter; • Second Runner-up Lilly Grace Deane; • Third Runner-up Savannah Lee Jones; • Fourth Runner-up Karina Pompa.

Scholarship winners for 2020 included Charlotte Lowen, winner of the Catherine A. Lautzenheiser Scholarship ($1,500); Savannah Lee Jones, winner of the second-place scholarship ($1,000) and Riley Grace Woodard, winner of the third-place scholarship ($750), The Carol H. Zimmer Award was presented to Savannah Lee Jones, and Mary Nelle Cravens was honored with the AOA Volunteer Award.

The ball, which featured 20 high school sophomore and junior girls representing various high schools in the Arlington area, was the culmination of a six-week fundraising effort during which the candidates solicited donations from businesses and individuals to benefit the BGCGTC. Originally scheduled in the spring, the COVID-19 situation pushed it back five months. But that didn’t put a damper on the ultimate fundraising effort – or on the festive nature of the event.

Many past winners were recognized at this year’s ball.

CRAVENS CROWNED MISS CINDERELLA FOR 2020

Arlington By the numbers 16

26.5

This is Tuga. He is my 9 1/2 year old Leopard Tortoise.

– Donna Wrachford

3

SCOOPS 1. Orangetheory® Fitness’ North Arlington location has begun offering outdoor workouts.

The curriculum includes working out with medicine balls, benches, on mats and body weight exercises with all equipment provided

by Orangetheory. Class size for the 45-minute workouts is limited, and Orangetheory Fitness is following CDC guidelines. For more: orangetheoryfitness.com.

2. Arlington author Carl Wilson recently published “Silent Journey,” a novel geared toward children ages 9 to 14. The story focuses on promising gymnast Scott Schroeder, who after being part of an accident that took his mother’s life eight years before, suddenly becomes deaf.

3. Beginning in the current fall semester, The University of Texas at Arlington is offering a bachelor of arts in philanthropy, the first such degree in the state of Texas and the second in the nation.

18

198

The percent of city residents

The number of languages

The height, in feet, of Sheraton

who are age 35-54, the biggest

spoken in homes located

Arlington Hotel, the tallest

demographic in Arlington

throughout the city

building in the city

Source: neighborhoodscout.com

Source: neighborhoodscout.com

Source: emporis.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

October is National Chiropractic Health Month!

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LEARN LEARNMORE MORE aisd.net/vatre aisd.net/vatre

EARLY VOTING Oct. 13-30, 2020

EARLY VOTING Oct. 13-30, 2020

Election Day Nov. 3, 2020

Election Day Nov. 3, 2020

•

AROUND TOWN

Dancing & educating are done step by step

Step by Step dancers performing a ballet.

L

bodies to express the word and spirit of God. isa Thompson has a tendency to refer to her dance studio as Which makes sense, seeing that Step By Step began at Grace “small,” which, relatively speaking, might be an accurate United Methodist Church, where a Thompson-choreograph dance description, though when you dig into its 35-year existence, led to a dance ministry at the church, which grew into Step By Step. little about Step By Step Dance should be construed as diminutive.

“God kept opening doors for Lisa, and she kept walking Sheer numbers, maybe. Certainly not stature. through them,” said Grace Pastor Dr. Luther Felder. “When the When parents who danced with Step By Step arrive at her studio came along, it gave her the opportunity to not just teach Arlington studio with their own wide-eyed, leotard-clad dance but educate these kids in social graces. The love of dance munchkins in tow, there is something quite magical and even led to many other things.” surreal about the whole thing.

Thompson knows that fully well. Her mother put her in dance Step By Step isn’t known for being this way station for dancers hoping it might break her shy-girl shell. “I wouldn’t talk to trying to stuff themselves into the proverbial pipeline with a people,” Thompson recalls. “I was very withdrawn. Turns out major dance company payoff, though some, like professional dance was a place to share my feelings. Just move and let the dancer/singer/film and television actor Sydney Duncan, certainly dance speak for you.” have achieved such. But that was not the aim when the studio She ended up at Kansas State University where most of her opened its doors in 1985 – or now. When former dancers return classmates were striving to be professional dancers. While she – and many do – they do so as accountants and teachers and did win spots with professional sports entrepreneurs and lawyers, often dance teams (Kansas City’s Kings and attributing their attainment to the Chiefs) and coach university dance discipline and inelastic lessons learned groups, she felt more at home working at Step By Step.

Kenneth Perkins in higher education (Thompson is Whenever I caught a Step By Step executive director of the Trio Pre College performance, Thompson would Programs at UTA). introduce her group by outlining its Marriage brought her to Texas, where mission of educating dancers to first “GOD KEPT opening she taught dance aerobics, devised appreciate the art form. What followed doors for Lisa, and she kept exercise programs for a fitness club, and were the oft-taught intangibles: selfcoached cheerleading while an advisor esteem, discipline, self-confidence. walking through them.” at SMU. In other words, veteran Step by Pastor Felder eventually came calling.

Steppers don’t tiptoe into studios, or The pandemic sent the studio online and pushed its seasonanywhere else, with slouching shoulders. They stroll, or sashay, ending presentation into the parking lot with everyone staying with heads held high. put in their vehicles. Enrollment for the new season, part online, Melissa Moore remembers bringing her daughter, Alyssa, a part in person with limited groups, is underway. shy three-year-old, to Step By Step and watching in glee/wonder/ For Thompson, her dance passion might have begun due horror Thompson asking Alyssa to come out on the studio floor in part to a shyness remedy, but it’s now all about servitude, with the other dancers. another of those intangibles she’s passing on to people like her “It was clear what Lisa was doing – just making her feel daughter, Erica, one of those former Step By Steppers who is now comfortable, making her feel a part of the group even though she Thompson’s go-to assistant (and attorney). wasn’t yet,” says Moore. “That just touched me.”

As for teaching the children of former students, it never gets old.

Alyssa returned – for the next 10 years.

Says Thompson, “Whenever they call and say, ‘You were my Step by Step is also one of the few dance studios teaching dance teacher, can you teach my daughter?’ I just love hearing liturgical dance, whose origins spring from spiritual worship that.” rather than dance as strictly entertainment. Dancers use their Kenneth Perkins has been a contributing writer for Arlington Today since it debuted. He is a freelance writer, editor and photographer.

20

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

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21

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PICTURE-PERFECT MOMENTS

Scene

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

Mansfield Public Library Mayor David L. Cook reads “Pete the Cat and his Magic Sunglasses.”

Patrick Johnson, Suraiya Culp and Jennifer Weber

Arlington Urban Ministries’ Boots, Chaps & Cowboy Hats 2020 Rhonda Knapp

Teresa Gaines and Terry Gaines

Photos courtesy of Jennifer Weber

Meghan Phillips and Lily Phillips

Prince Lebanese Grill Boots Co-Chairs Jan Barton Gerro and Mary Helen Burnett

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ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Elizabeth Kobty, Preston Nguyen and Aziz Kobty

Kathy Bukhair

City of Grand Prairie Mayor Ron Jensen presents one of his weekly city updates via the Grand Prairie website.

Town of Pantego Police Department Local residents surprised the police department last month by delivering gift baskets and cards.

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NEWS!

PLAY BALL!

Globe Life Field will be the site of playoff baseball and the World Series

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Will fans be allowed to attend the games at the stadiums n a move that serves as a reminder of just how in baseball’s version of “the bubble” concept that had been significant a player The American Dream City has implemented previously in professional basketball and become on the national stage, Major League Baseball hockey to ensure safe playing environments in the era of announced that the 2020 World Series will be played this coronavirus? month at Arlington’s Globe Life Field.

In mid September, after Major League Baseball And that’s just part of the great news for the city.

Commissioner Rob Manfred announced the playoff and The schedule for the 2020 postseason, which opened World Series sites, he expressed his desire for the answer with the American League’s inaugural Wild Card Series to be yes. on Sept. 29 and the National League’s first Wild Card “I’m hopeful that for the World Series and the [League Series openers on Sept. 30, also puts NL division and Championship Series] we will have limited fan capacity,” championship series match-ups at the game’s newest Manfred said at a virtual address to an audience at ballpark in the days leading to the World Series. Globe Life Hofstra University’s Frank G. Zarb School of Business.

Field is one of four ballparks that will be used in the latter “I think it’s important for us to start back down the road. rounds of the playoffs, along with Houston’s Minute Maid Obviously, it’ll be limited numbers, socially distanced, Park, San Diego’s Petco Park and Dodger Stadium. protection provided for the fans in terms of temperature In the first neutral site Fall Classic in modern history, checks and the like. Kind of the pods like you saw in Game One of the 2020 World Series is set for Tuesday, Oct. some of the NFL games. We’ll 20 at the new home of the probably use that same Texas Rangers. A potential Game Seven of the World “WHOEVER COMES through theory.”

Manfred said last month Series is scheduled for our doors, whichever clubs that a final determination Wednesday, Oct. 28. are fortunate enough to about in-stadium attendance Major League Baseball’s announcement was welcome make it to the championship, will be made before major league teams head to their – and not totally unexpected – we’re thrilled to host them respective neutral playoff news to at least one big fan of sites. Any decision would here in Arlington and Globe baseball and his home town. be tied to state and local “Before COVID hit, the Life Field.” ordinances. Late September owners had a meeting right Texas state regulations would here to see this new Globe allow Globe Life Field and Minute Maid Park to be filled Life Field,” says Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams. “To up to 50 percent capacity. Capacity for a baseball game at hear firsthand from those owners there how impressed the Arlington venue is 40,300. they were with this ballpark, that really laid a lot of In devising the postseason plan, Major League Baseball groundwork because these teams that are in the playoffs and the Major League Baseball Players Association and World Series are going to be coming to the premier incorporated several key safety measures, including: Major League Baseball ballpark in America.”

– Players on contending teams will have to quarantine at After the question of where the playoff and the World their respective hotels in the final seven days of the regular Series games would be played this year was answered, season. a second important query followed almost immediately:

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ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Image courtesy of The Texas Rangers

– Families of players on contending teams will be permitted to quarantine with players for the seven-day period and can remain together throughout the postseason run. Family members would be considered to be part of the bubble.

– Everyone considered to be part of the bubble will be tested for COVID-19 on a daily basis.

– Players can elect to leave their hotels once their team has been eliminated.

For the Texas Rangers, hosting the World Series at Globe Life Field is quite the consolation prize after having to play the first season in their new home without having paying

customers in the stands throughout the 60-game season.

“We’d [have loved] the Rangers to be in the World Series this year,” says Rangers Executive Vice President of Business Operations Rob Matwick. “Whoever comes through our doors, whichever clubs are fortunate enough to make it to the championship, we’re thrilled to host them here in Arlington and Globe Life Field. We certainly want to thank Major League Baseball and Commissioner Manfred for having confidence in us in being able to deliver at the highest level of our game, at the most important games, and the most important times of the year for Major League Baseball here in October.” arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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COVER STORY

when seeking the high-quality legal services I knew I could offer them.”

Additionally, she had become dissatisfied with the professional climate of practices in Dallas, where it was commonplace to find “Rambo type lawyers,” who treated family law just as any other civil suit. Her experience with Tarrant County colleagues revealed that several were, instead, at the forefront of offering alternate dispute resolution, such as mediation and, later, collaborative law, and she knew she wanted to be a part of the changing landscape of the practice of family law.

“I was well schooled as a very proficient litigation lawyer from my 10 years of experience as a board certified family The Family Law Firm of Donna J. lawyer in Dallas, so I knew that I could bring that expertise Smiedt has been successfully serving level to the practice in Arlington for the community, where these skills were needed,” she says. “But I was also interested Arlington and Tarrant County clients for for my own sanity, as well as that of my clients, in working the past two and a half decades with a community of lawyers that were cognizant of the great toll family law litigation takes on not only the lawyers, but the parties and especially their children.”

That triad is at the heart of what has emerged as one of Smiedt’s specialties, collaborative law, which enables couples or the past 25 years, Donna Smiedt has helmed one of who have decided to separate or end their marriage to work the more significant legal entities in the city, The Family with their collaborative professionals including collaboratively Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt. Teaming experience, trained lawyers, coaches and financial professionals, to avoid passion, persistence and legal and technological savvy, Smiedt the uncertain outcome of court and to achieve a settlement that has emerged as one of North Texas’ foremost authorities on best meets the specific needs of both parties and their children complex family law litigation, which runs a gamut that includes without the underlying divorce, property division, adoption, child threat of litigation. support, paternity, and post-divorce modification.

Desaray Muma, Donna J. Smiedt and Michael Muñoz Early on, Smiedt planted From Day One to the present, she and her team her professional flag on have ardently – and successfully – represented that mountain – and in this thousands of clients during often-difficult times. city – and has been helping For Smiedt, Day One occurred in 1995 after ease a heavy burden for her marrying her husband of 25 years. It was then clients since. that she left a successful practice in Dallas to However, she hasn’t had start a firm and pursue a new dream in what, to go it alone. Her legal appropriately enough, would come to be known as team also includes Nonthe American Dream City.

Equity Partner Desaray “I moved my practice because he lived here, Muma and Senior Litigation and I was so impressed with Arlington,” she says.

Lawyer Michael Muñoz, “I felt that it was a growing city and in the future and Smiedt says they would support a specialized boutique family law have been godsends since firm.” joining her in her quest to When she arrived, there were only five boardhelp families achieve the certified family law attorneys supporting a large best and least painful legal city. “From a business standpoint and as an results, regardless of the entrepreneur,” Smiedt says, “I felt that I could circumstance. build a family law firm in Arlington that operated “Desaray and Michael have been such a blessing to the firm at a very high-level so that Tarrant County and Arlington and bring their own unique styles and talents,” Smiedt says. residents would not have to look to Dallas or Fort Worth firms

YOUR FAMILY ATTORNEYS

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ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Meet the team at The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt Photos courtesy of Major Images Photography and Donna Smiedt

They also bring both passion and compassion to the office every day. Muma has been with the firm some six years, starting nearly a year out of law school. Smiedt says Muma has excellent litigation skills, as well as a true interest in providing collaborative and mediation services to her family law clients. When Smiedt experienced recent back and hip issues, Muma stepped in to take up the slack. As a result, Smiedt made her a non-equity partner.

Muñoz, meanwhile, has been stellar as the firm’s senior litigation lawyer with 15 years of experience. “He is a very intelligent and procedurally savvy lawyer who does not back down from a fight,” Smiedt says. “With his excellent litigation skills he has been an invaluable member of our team.”

In essence, the team of Smiedt, Muma and Muñoz can handle every aspect of family law, even – especially – those tied to a recent phenomenon: the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, an issue that has become prominent lately, Smiedt says, is representation of grandparents in termination cases filed by the state because of drug abuse and mental illness, two consequences tied to the pandemic.

And then, of course, there’s the biggest COVID-19 consequence: elderly deaths. To address that issue during the current health crisis, the firm began offering, at a greatly reduced rate, a Will Package containing a Simple Will, Medical Power of Attorney, Durable Power of Attorney and Directive to Physicians.

“We hope people don’t have to utilize these important legal documents now,” Smiedt says. “But we are committed to expediting turnaround for clients in need.”

This kind of resourcefulness typifies Smiedt’s yearning to establish a comprehensive family law firm. And comprehensive, it is. For example, Smiedt has years of experience and skill in high-asset divorces, dealing with many members of Arlington who are not only pillars of the community but have complicated separate-property tracing cases or businesses that require valuation, etc. “We provide the whole gamut at our firm,” Smiedt says. “And that has always been my vision.”

The practice is located in a beautiful building at 3216 W. Arkansas Lane that she helped design, not only to express her eclectic design taste embodied by the bright colors and interesting art collection, but to be a place that was not

intimidating to clients who may never have stepped foot in a business office before to retain an attorney.

Because many meetings for mediation and collaborative cases are held at the office, Smiedt wanted it to be bright and interesting so clients might not become more depressed during a mediation process that can leave them feeling like they’re losing their life, their family, their children and maybe their finances.

To further the idea of positivity, Smiedt, an animal lover who has served on the board of the Arlington Animal Shelter for four years, has divorce therapy dogs at the office.

Baxter was the first to join the team. He was saved from the Arlington shelter an hour before he was to be euthanize. Rex was rescued by Amanda Smith, the firm’s Office Manager. Ruffles, the newcomer, is Muma’s Goldendoodle puppy.

“I am always supporting the animal shelter and rescue dogs,” Smiedt says. “They tend to restore my soul after years of being on the forefront of people‘s misery. I certainly think they are very therapeutic for our clients that are going through the worst time of their lives. Obviously, if people are afraid of dogs, we will inquire, and we lock the pets up accordingly.”

Another area in which Smiedt and her team are at the forefront is technology. They spent 2018 diverting all their clients to an online cloud system managed by Thomson Reuters, a giant in the legal industry for safeguarding confidential client information.

“And, because of our technological expertise, we were able to continue our practice when Arlington residents needed us most during this COVID-19 crisis,” Smiedt says. “We were seamlessly able to work from home when necessary.”

Smiedt says that the aftermath of the shut down has caused the divorce rate to rise as much as 35% “Luckily, we were able to keep the doors open because of my forethought regarding technology,” she says. “I am kind of a nerd, so I was happy to invest in the software and hardware to be able to run the firm remotely. I am always ‘connected’ to the law firm. And I am very proud that I was able to keep our eight employees on salary during the entire shut down and able to continue providing services to Arlington residents when they needed it most.”

For more: arlingtondivorces.com. arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Lezlee Liljenberg

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ezlee Liljenberg, owner of the Allstate Insurance - Lezlee Liljenberg Agency, has been providing compassionate and dynamic service as an agent for clients for the past 18 years. Indeed, her knack for connecting with – and then finding solutions for – her customers has earned the affable Liljenberg a loyal following, dating virtually to her first day on the job.

“My husband inspired me to become an agent,” she says. “At the time he was a manager with Allstate, and my love for helping people has always been my passion. It was a great fit.”

Liljenberg’s agency specializes in more than just the conventional home and auto realms for which Allstate is well known. In fact, that’s one of the aspects of working with a national company that most appeals to her – she can offer a variety of practical and beneficial solutions to clients’ insurance needs via more than 200 of the top insurance carriers.

“As a small-business owner, I understand the importance of building a solid foundation for the future and developing long-lasting customer relationships,” she says. “That’s why I’m committed to offering you the same level of service I expect. When you work with my agency, I want you to feel confident, informed, assured and satisfied.”

Liljenberg works alongside “six incredible women every day” to provide the best options for their customers. “In these tough times,” she says, “I think we all need to remember to be kind to one another and that we are all human – that is our mantra to live by every day.”

The agency offers insurance products in the realms of Auto, Home, Business, Life, Condo, ATV, Renters, Boat and Motorcycle, and the team is constantly looking for the best ways to exceed customer expectations in each.

“I am a true student of insurance,” Liljenberg says. “I recently

completed three years of additional training to obtain three new designations: CIC-Certified Insurance Consultant, MLISManagement Liability Insurance Specialist and CRIS-Construction Risk & Insurance Specialist. That desire for knowledge is important to being able to assist clients with a level of information that sets us apart from most agencies. I take the responsibility of protecting people’s assets very seriously. It concerns me that companies have made insurance into such a joke and act like it is just about the ‘cheapest prices.’ Having a sense of humor is great, but the difficulties that agents face every day in order to help their customers is no laughing matter.”

That’s one of the reasons she has kicked off a campaign of “Insurance Agents R Heroes 2.” Her plan is to take this message nationwide. Last year, the agency introduced “Garage Girls Passion,” which is an interactive event to teach females of all ages about insurance, auto maintenance and safety. “You can see I am passionate about this,” she says.

Liljenberg’s passion extends beyond the office walls, where, on any given day you’ll find her enjoying metal sculpting, writing, cooking, public speaking and philanthropy.

If you are a licensed agent and looking for a great place to advance your career, call Lezlee.

Allstate Insurance - Lezlee Liljenberg Agency 3105 W. Arkansas Lane • 817-794-5887 • agents.allstate.com/lezlee-liljenberg-mansfield-tx.html arlingtontoday.com • October 2019 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Reba Blevens

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s the owner of Media Matrix, Reba Blevens specializes in Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations, including Media Buying and Planning, Marketing Strategies and Production Services, including print, radio and television. In other words, if you have a product/service/brand you think the public needs to know about, Blevens not only will help you spread the word – she will get people excited to hear it.

“I love the creative process,” she says. “No two days are alike.”

As much as she enjoys her job, it’s just one facet of what makes Reba, Reba.

In fact, she’s generally as busy outside the office serving in her community as she is at work.

“I love my life,” she says. “I’ve enjoyed a great deal of success.

I believe when our lives are blessed, it is our responsibility to bless the lives of others. You get what you give.”

To that end, Blevens supports Alliance for Children, serving as co-chair for “The Great Conversation Dinner” in Fort Worth in 2015 with Elizabeth Smart as the keynote and in 2016 with Charles Haley as the keynote. The money raised for those events support the ongoing efforts to fight child abuse and increase awareness in Tarrant County.

She credits friend, mentor and civic activist Jerry McCullough for her participation in Mission Arlington Basketball & Baseball Camps supporting underprivileged children with an opportunity to learn basic skills in sports and the Salvation Army Family Life

Center Advisory Council supporting the families living in the FLC with basic necessities, financial support, fund raising events.

She has become a regular Salvation Army Red Kettle “Bell Ringer,” something that was “far from my comfort zone when I agreed to help.” After the first year, she personally witnessed families with so little willing to share what they had with those less fortunate. “My heart was grateful for the gifts I saw in giving from those with so little to give,” she says. “This experience truly captures the spirit of our community. I actually look forward to it today!”

She is also active with the Arlington ISD Education Foundation, serving as President this year. “This foundation serves the public school students of Arlington through fulfilling extraordinary needs and initiatives,” she says. “This is a particularly challenging year with online learning and the specific needs created by this challenge. We’ve also had to be extremely creative in fundraising initiatives with a comedy show and virtual bingo. We’re hopeful this event will allow us to generate the much needed funds to assist the teachers and students in Arlington.”

Blevens says much of her professional and civic success is rooted in a number of inspirations, starting with the noted automobile magnates, the Moritz family. “I have worked for them since 1996,” she notes. “I was fortunate to be involved in some of their philanthropic endeavors. I saw the difference they made in our community. I respect and admire them.”

She also credits the aforementioned McCullough, who was her ninth grade history teacher at Ferguson Junior High 50 years ago.

“It was his first year to teach, and he wanted every single student to be successful,” she recalls. “I am inspired by his tireless efforts (along with his wife, Becky) to make Arlington a better place. They have touched me and challenged me to go beyond my ‘comfort zone’ to help the less fortunate in our community.”

She’s also very partial to the Jeff Williams family. “Mayor Williams and his wife, Karen have been personal friends for years,” she says. “I am amazed at the work and dedication this family has given to our city.”

Ultimately, she says, she has become a benefactor because she was able to be a beneficiary: “These people have all shown me the impact we can have and the difference we can make in the lives of the people around us.”

Media Matrix 6210 Ken Ave. • 817-925-7141 30

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2019 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Dr. Melissa Danchak

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r. Melissa Danchak began working at Kos/Danchak Audiology in 1997. She has owned the practice since 2002. Dr. Danchak earned her Bachelors in Communication Disorders from Abilene Christian University.

She then earned her Masters in Audiology from The University of Texas at Dallas, and then earned her Doctorate of Audiology (Au.D.) from the University of Florida.

With over 23 years of experience helping those with hearing challenges in the Arlington and surrounding communities, Dr. Danchak’s passion for providing unparalleled care and service for her patients is on full display with the 100’s of online reviews her patients are sharing.

While her formal education gave her the book knowledge needed to become an audiologist, Dr. Danchak certainly believes that learning is a lifelong process. “Like any small business, we experience change, adversity, success, and a whole host of other “stuff” on a regular basis. We try to learn, every day. We evaluate how we help people and we try to make the hearing health care experience better for the people that we meet with each day. Our goal is for each person to have a better experience with us every time they visit. The fact that we have thousands of patients that have been trusting us with their hearing needs for 10 and 15 years tells us that we are doing

a good job of providing a positive experience for our patients.

We are also very fortunate to have tremendous support from the manufacturers in the hearing health care industry. They will often present ideas that help us improve the delivery of our services. Their perspective is invaluable and has helped us stay ahead of the curve when it comes to patient care!”

At Kos/Danchak Audiology, they live by a fairly simple (professional) philosophy: do our absolute best to serve our patients and fellow employees to the best of our ability; continue to learn and grow, every day, so that we can accomplish that in the best way possible!

Dr. Danchak says, “we make a difference in people’s lives. We see it on their faces when they hear and understand clearly what a loved one is saying. We see it when a spouse or child experiences the feeling of being able to communicate again without raising their voice or repeating themself. Patients and their families share with us that their investment in better hearing, and us, has changed their lives. It’s not always easy for people to admit that they have hearing loss or that they need hearing aids. We know we make a difference in people’s lives because so many of the new patients we meet each day are referrals from current patients that we have been helping for years! It doesn’t get any better than that.”

Kos / Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids 101 West Randol Mill Road • 817-277-7039 • northtxhearing.com arlingtontoday.com • October 2019 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Lori Shannon, Linda Castillo, Amy Lorenz and Lisabel Rodriguez-Espinosa

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he Jim Ross Law Group, P.C., prides itself on excellent service to its clients and to its community. It is a familyowned law firm that treats its clients with three major hallmarks: loyalty, honesty, and respect. Here are four key members of the team: Lori Shannon joined Jim Ross Law Group in 2019. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Texas Tech University and her law degree from Texas Tech School of Law. She worked for the Attorney General’s office for over 20 years as a managing assistant attorney general and has extensive experience in establishing, modifying and enforcing child support orders.

Lori has prior legal experience in family, criminal, civil and employment law – having worked as a prosecutor, an associate attorney and a solo practitioner. In her spare Photo: Bruce Maxwell time, the Sweetwater, Texas, native enjoys spending quality time with her husband and daughter – who is currently a student at Colleyville Heritage High School. The best part of Lori’s job is making sure her clients feel heard and get their day in court.

Linda Castillo joined the Jim Ross Law Group in 2017 as an associate attorney. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 2013. Subsequently, Linda attended Texas Tech School of Law where she received her J.D. in 2016. Linda began working as a civil and family law attorney, until she switched focus to exclusively family law matters. She is a member of the State Bar of Texas and the Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association. Linda is originally from the Rio Grande Valley, but has found her home in Arlington.

In her free time, enjoys playing golf and spending time with friends.

Linda is passionate about the practice of family law, and providing guidance and counsel to families during some of the most difficult

times of their lives. She practices with compassion and integrity as she finds the best solutions to each client’s unique situation.

Amy Lorenz has been selected as a Texas Rising Stars Super Lawyer every year from 2016 through 2020. Amy is a graduate of L.D. High School, Texas Tech University, and Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. After graduating from law school, she started working for Jim Ross Law Group, P.C., in 2010; there she represents people in different areas of the law, primarily focusing her practice on personal injury, probate, estate planning, and general civil litigation.

As an attorney Amy loves having meaningful, personally engaging work, which allows her to be a source of support and guidance for her clients while also minimizing their stress in the litigation process.

At home Amy loves spending Lori Shannon, Linda Castillo, Amy Lorenz time with her husband and and Lisabel Rodriguez-Espinosa daughter, including going on family runs, hiking, and cooking big family meals together.

Lisabel Rodriguez-Espinosa completed her bachelor’s from the University of Puerto Rico in 1998 and Juris Doctor from the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico in 2001. A civil law practitioner, she has focused mostly on business, labor, and employment matters. Complementing her legal practice with the uprising technology challenges, she completed a master’s degree in IT Management and Information Assurance from the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico in 2016, earning her the opportunity to join their faculty in 2017, where she continues teaching to date. Barred in Texas and Puerto Rico and having joined the Jim Ross Law Group have broadened her love for the law with her technology background. She says daily challenges with the friendly faces around the office make her look forward to each workday.

The Jim Ross Law Group, P.C. 2221 E. Lamar Blvd., #800 • 817-275-4100 • jimrosslaw.com 32

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Dr. Amy Schoening

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r. Amy Schoening started her practice in Mansfield in January of this year with a simple principle: Every patient is different, and every person’s individual needs are unique. That’s why Dr. Schoening and her staff strive to get to know each patient and work with them one-on-one to develop a treatment plan that fits their specific needs.

“Every treatment plan is uniquely designed, but the goal is always the same – a healthy mouth, strong and functional teeth free of pain, and a beautiful smile that builds confidence,” Dr. Schoening says. “At Schoening, DDS, patients can expect the highest quality of customized care, because to us it’s not just about teeth, it’s about people and their quality of life.”

Dr. Schoening has deep roots in dentistry, having practiced for more than two and half decades, most recently in Arlington before taking a year off to prepare for the opening of Amy Schoening, DDS. She says she is excited about her new venture – and her new opportunity to transform lives by giving people back a smile her patients can be proud of.

“With time to reflect over the last year, I’m planning to build a perfect, small dental practice that will reflect me and my vision for dental care. Practicing will be both fun and rewarding for many years to come.”

Dr. Schoening is supported by a compassionate and talented team that includes Melissa Westlund, Allison Guice and Tiffany Bowles.

Westlund joined Dr. Schoening after living and working as a dental assistant in Austin for 10 years. She has been a dental assistant for 16 years and loves helping others improve their smile and help educate patients in oral health. Westlund worked with Dr. Schoening right out of school in 2004 and is very excited to be reunited and working alongside Dr. Schoening again in her new practice.

Guice lives in Grapevine and has called Texas her home

since 2001. She started her dental career with Dr. Schoening in 2003 and is happy for the new adventure in Mansfield. She especially loves the opportunity to educate patients on their dental health and seeing the transformation of a new smile.

Bowles began working as an assistant during school breaks and her love for the field grew as she later went on to become a hygienist. She has served in that capacity for 10 years and looks forward to continuing being part of a team that helps patients stay healthy and enjoy the dental going experience.

Collectively, the specialists at Amy Schoening, DDS provide comprehensive dental care, including a hygiene program, periodontal therapy, crowns, bridges, and fillings. The practice also offers state-of-the-art solutions with regards to cosmetic dentistry, implant services and Invisalign.

While the services Dr. Schoening provides patients include those staples of the practice, that’s not what she believes will set Amy Schoening, DDS apart.

“I think my fierce attention to detail and always trying to treat the patient as an individual – not just treating their teeth – is important,” she says. “Also, I’ve always tried to treat others the way I would want to be treated. My leadership style comes from my heart and a place of compassion.”

Amy Schoening, DDS 1757 Broad Park Circle North Suite 101, Mansfield • 817- 992-9201 • schoeningdds.com arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Brenda Hunt B

Julie Short

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he Julie Short Team is a full-service real estate team, proficient at working with sellers and buyers. Owner Julie Short says she and her colleagues are focused on customer service and on being available to assist their clients, doing whatever is necessary to ensure a satisfying home buying/selling experience.

Short says one key to her company’s success is its team approach to addressing clients’ needs. “If we are listing a house, we have a connection to get it ‘Show Ready’ with any repairs and touch-ups that need to be done,” she says. “We have a wonderful photographer and great inspectors we work with. We have excellent lenders we recommend. When the inspection report comes back, we have a company that coordinates any repairs. If clients purchase a home and want to remodel, we have people for that. We really try to take all the guess work out of the process and take care of as much as the clients are willing to allow.”

Short and her team embrace a simple philosophy. “I believe in balance in everything and living by the golden rule,” she says.

“I really believe if you will treat others how you would like to be treated, you will never lack for business.”

She says her husband (Stoney Short) is a huge inspiration: “He has never let his circumstances or his past hold him back.

He has always had big vision. It used to scare me when he would share all the things he wanted to do because I know the bigger you try, the bigger you can fail. But, I realized that was my own fear holding me back. Over the years, his ability to dream big has given me that same ability, and now I can share that with others. Not trying is the biggest failure any of us can have. DO NOT let fear of failure hold you back!”

The Julie Short Team/Coldwell Banker 1016 S. 2nd Ave., Mansfield, TX 76063 • 682-552-4384 thejulieshortteam.com 34

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2019 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

renda Hunt, owner of Great Skin Spa & Facial Club, began her career in the skin care and beauty business more than a dozen years ago as the first U.S. franchisee of Canadian-based Faces cosmetics. Taking that experience, she founded Great Skin Spa & Facial Club 10 years ago in Arlington, where the company has continued to grow and gain notoriety as an exceptional day spa and skin care provider.

At Great Skin she not only shares her experience in creating and maintaining beautiful skin via state-ofthe-industry technology and products; she also has championed the practice of receiving professional spa services as part of personal care, as opposed to a special occasional visit or gift due to affordability. Great Skin Facial Club members receive a wide range of treatment options at the spa, as well as guidance and products they can use at home to maintain fresh, youthful-looking skin.

“I developed the concept of Great Skin based on the goals of the thousands of clients – men and women – wanting to have more beautiful skin and manage the signs of aging skin through treatments, knowledge and skin care,” Hunt says.

As a result, Great Skin offers a full line of award-winning skin care products for anti-aging, acne, hyperpigmentation and general skin care, as well as skin and body care for men, women and teens. Two years ago, Hunt introduced a product paying homage to her mother, Mattie, who was afflicted with Alzheimer’s: “Hemp Healing Cream” for skin and body care.

GS is also known for its instant slimming treatments, and it now offers a special credit card that can be used specifically for beauty and health services.

Most recently, Hunt began an effort to heighten awareness and implement operating principals of disease control to keep clients and staff safe and healthy. “Also,” she notes, “we specialize in treating every skin type, tone and texture with excellent results from knowledge, education and experience.”

Great Skin offers a turnkey franchise program that includes everything needed to successfully own and operate your own Great Skin Spa & Facial Club. “It’s about partnership at Great Skin,” Hunt says. “Our slogan is ‘Relax, Rewind, Renew!,’ and we are proud to share those values with our clients and franchisees.”

Great Skin Spa & Facial Club 3851 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd. • 817-478-2114• greatskin4you.com

Bobbie Jo Majors B

obbie Jo Majors, owner of Major Images Photography, has spent 20 years perfecting her craft in photography, a time devoted to countless hours of education in the classroom and attending the best photography workshops all over the country. Meanwhile, she also has invested in the highest quality/professional equipment – cameras, lenses, lighting (“lots of lights”), programs, computers, books, backup drives, and a plethora of gadgets to make everything run smooth and work efficiently.

“It has been lot of time, love, passion, effort, investment, grit and ‘get it’ poured into the recipe to achieve the success at my boutique photography studio,” Majors says. “It’s been a lot of us and our hard work, and most importantly, it’s been the gift of God’s sweet blessing on our business, and for that we are so thankful and inspired to press forward to another year.”

Majors is an “outdoors girl” to the core, she says. She also loves Starbucks, convertibles, driving her scooter or spending the mornings on her paddle board. She bikes at least 20 miles a week and runs 10-12 more.

Why? “I am 5’ 2” and I LOVE good food (LOL).”

She also loves her ‘97 Jeep Wrangler, has a one-year-old standard poodle named Oliver, has three adult kids and “one sweet daughter in love.”

Major Images Photography Call: 817-795-9922 • Text: 817-881-6627 • Email: bobbiejo@majorimages.com

Women caring for women The doctors of Women’s Health Services provide full OB/ GYN services and are skilled in managing all aspects of women’s health care, such as normal and high risk pregnancy care, gynecologic surgery, incontinence treatment, annual exams, and contraceptive and hormone therapy needs. We also provide state-of-theart maternity care in the newly renovated labor and delivery suites at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital.

Our goal is to provide quality care with high patient satisfaction. Visit our website and make your appointments online at www.womenshealthservices.com. We look forward to seeing you soon!

DOCTOR SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Maya Kuriakose Dr. Maya Kuriakose grew up in Amarillo, Texas and graduated from Canyon High School. She then attended the University of Texas in Austin where she received her Bachelor of Science in Biology, followed by her medical degree in 2016 from Texas Tech University-El Paso.

She completed four years of residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at Methodist Dallas Medical Center. She joined the team of physicians at Women’s Health Services in Arlington in 2020.

Dr. Kuriakose met her husband in Dallas, whom she married at the completion of her residency training. Her husband, Shawn, is a pharmacist in the DFW Metroplex. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and spending time with her husband and her dog, Laila.

North Office: 1001 N. Waldrop, Suite 505 Arlington, TX 76012

South Office: 5005 S. Cooper St, Suite 275 Arlington, TX 76017

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

WHS_ArlingtonToday_HalfPgAd_Jan2019.indd 1

As a naturally honest and friendly person, Dr. Kuriakose enjoys building and maintaining long term patient relationships.

She enjoys educating her patients so that they can take o ershi of heir hea h She is e re e y ro ie i a aspects of obstetrics and gynecology including robotic and laparoscopic surgical skills.

Dr. Kuriakose is accepting new patients at both the north and sou h of es a or ook o i e a www.womenshealthservices.com 1/23/19 1:32 PM arlingtontoday.com • October 2019 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY 35

•

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Brandee Kelley B

randee Kelley leads the Brandee Kelley Realty Group of Keller Williams Luxury International. The group has helped meet the real estate needs of more than 1,000 families and individuals since 2005, serving clients with the highest standard of integrity through experience and teamwork.

“We help buyers, sellers and investors with residential and commercial transactions in DFW and throughout the world,” Kelley says. “Although we office in Arlington and Southlake, we literally have business partners throughout the U.S. and in 42 other countries.”

Kelley says her group employs a team approach that allows each member to utilize their gifts and strengths, while creating synergy that helps produce the best results for clients.

“We have two of the most experienced fulltime administrators in real estate,” she says.

“Our team also includes agents with different specialties like the luxury market, working with investors and first-time buyers.”

Kelley has leadership experience in business, in the community and in ministry, a collective trilogy that has paid dividends in her professional journey.

“These experiences have led to priceless relationships, which are a blessing to me personally, help in leading the team, and have created a network that benefits our clients,” she says. “We often know about homes before they officially hit the market, which is key in this current low-inventory market. And when we put homes on the market we purposefully utilize proven strategies to get multiple offers so the seller gets the most money for their home in the shortest amount of time.”

That kind of service is a hallmark of the Brandee Kelley Group, and its leader says it hasn’t gone unnoticed: “Someone recently said the following about our team: ‘This team has dedicated their lives to assisting clients with what is likely the biggest investment of their life, and they take that role very seriously. It’s much different than any other Realty group I’ve ever seen.’”

Brandee Kelley Realty Group 1301 S. Bowen Road • 817-635-1141 • brandeekelley.com 36

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Cynthia L. Hill (left) and Melinda H. Barlow

H

Cynthia L. Hill and Melinda H. Barlow

arris Cook, LLP is a Full-Service Law Firm with an established reputation and a long history of service. Our attorneys are known for providing outstanding legal services to businesses, individuals, and families throughout North Texas.

The growing firm has recently welcomed esteemed attorneys Cynthia L. Hill and Melinda H. Barlow to its team of talented and sought-after attorneys.

A partner at Harris Cook, Attorney Cynthia L. Hill is a Labor and Employment Law attorney with over thirty years of legal experience. She often represents private sector clients in the areas of employment litigation, human resource issues, labor laws, and risk prevention. A litigator at heart, Cynthia has successfully represented employers in contested matters before state and federal courts, federal administrative agencies, and before the National Labor Relations Board.

Additionally, Cynthia concentrates her practice in the areas of government strategies and school and college governance.

She has offered legal counsel to independent school districts, public and private schools, community colleges, universities, and other public entities.

Attorney Melinda H. Barlow is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a specialization earned by only 2% of attorneys in Texas.

Consistently seeking justice for her clients, Melinda is skilled in the evaluation of serious injuries and wrongful death, including those resulting from vehicle accidents, unsafe premises, and negligence. Melinda also concentrates her practice in the area of Employment Law. As a Partner at Harris Cook, Melinda offers counsel to business owners regarding up-to-date legal guidelines and advice to stay in compliance with Federal and State Employment Laws.

Harris Cook, LLP Arlington: 1309A W. Abram • Mansfield: 309 E. Broad St. 817-275-8765 • harriscooklaw.com

Coming soon:

THE VANDY Arshia Inc., along with key leaders in our community, are excited to announce the coming of THE VANDY at the corner of Collins and Sanford Street! Although the building is rough around the edges, it has heart inside its walls. The historic nature of the building gives it a great story and preserves a heritage for our city that will be welcome by all.

Photo: Southern Flair Photography Also engaged with the project is the University of Texas at Arlington’s Art Department, headed up by Carlos Don Juan, with master planning being done by Principal Planner Ann Foss of the office of Strategic Initiatives.

THE VANDY will come complete with a full-service restaurant and patio seating, multi-tenant options to include retail and business space, rentable venue space, and potentially an upscale farmers market with food to table options for the restaurant. THE VANDY will also provide a direct link between the Entertainment District and the revitalized Downtown area, making it even more attractive to patrons, both locally and those that come in to attend events.

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37

•

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Kathy Howlett, CPA, Partner Kylie Lindsey, CPA, Principal Marie Bosillo, CPA, Partner Stephanie Buduhan, CPA, Principal

P

SK LLP is a full-service CPA, consulting and advisory firm providing accounting, tax, audit, payroll and business consulting services to national and local clients in the DallasFort Worth area. The firm opened for business in 1964 and is now one of the largest firms in Arlington. PSK serves clients in transportation, healthcare, construction, manufacturing and the nonprofit sectors, as well as churches, familyowned businesses and investor groups. PSK is dedicated to providing value to clients through the success and development of their team members, while maintaining important core values.

Kathy: Kathy is one of the partners at PSK and has been a member of the PSK team since 1991. Kathy provides accounting, tax and business consulting for family-owned businesses – a job she enjoys because of the close relationships she’s developed.

Kylie: A principal at PSK, Kylie has been part of the team for 15 years. She began in the PSK accounting department as an intern while a college student at UTA. She serves as a tax and accounting principal, always striving to partner with her clients to provide the best service possible.

Marie: A partner at PSK, Marie joined the firm’s team in 2007 and performs financial statement audits, reviews and agreedupon procedures for commercial and nonprofit clients. With all her clients, Marie aims to develop a close, professional relationship through quality service and a positive attitude.

Stephanie: A principal at PSK, Stephanie started her tenure as an intern and has been with the firm for 13 years. She serves the church and nonprofit sectors with comprehensive auditing services, always working to make audits as smooth as possible for her clients. Stephanie was recognized as a TXCPA Rising Star in 2019.

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The Women’s Alliance

he Women’s Alliance is an outreach of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce that focuses on empowering and uniting women through business and community endeavors.

The Women’s Alliance pledges to offer leadership, mentoring and direction to its devoted members and is committed to strengthening women as professional, business, community and civic leaders. The organization recently welcomed its newest chairperson, Dr. Jacquelyn Minor, Academic Foundations Department Chair at the Tarrant County College Southeast Campus. She will lead the Women’s Alliance in encouraging member participation in Chamber activities and offering unique opportunities for women to grow their businesses or flourish within the companies at which they work. Here are some of those opportunities: Professional networking Women’s Alliance members receive support and assistance to build solid contacts/relationships and become more recognized in the greater Arlington community.

Introductions to new members Women’s Alliance members will be given the opportunity to mentor new members by welcoming them to the Chamber and inviting them to attend chamber activities, and to participate in Chamber initiatives.

Via its Facebook page, facebook.com/WomensAlliance/ ?ref=page_internal, the Women’s Alliance updates members on organization and local business events, as well as shares various members’ and other success stories within the greater Arlington business community.

PSK LLP

Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce

3001 Medlin Drive, #100 • 817-664-3000 • pskcpa.com

505 E. Border St. • 817-275-2613• arlingtontx.com

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

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39

•

WORTHY CAUSES

VICTORY!

It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Here is how my faith and my quest for a healthy lifestyle helped me beat this insidious disease • By Kimerly Fernandez

I

was faced with a situation that turned my world upside down. In December 2015, I felt a lump in my left breast, had a biopsy performed and the results came back positive for breast cancer.

I remember it like it was yesterday. My husband and I sat in the doctors office in disbelief as she delivered the news. I had just run the Dallas Half Marathon two weeks prior to the diagnosis, and I felt great. In fact, I think I may have been in the best physical shape of my life to that point. In that instant my life was completely turned upside down. As you can imagine I had so many questions – what do we do now, can it be treated, do I need chemotherapy, but “am I going to die?” was the foremost thought on my mind.

Everything started moving so fast. Before I knew it I had an Oncologist, a Breast Care Surgeon, and a Plastic Surgeon. There were so many decisions to make– it was a whirlwind experience. I decided to take the aggressive approach, which would include 12 chemo treatments, and two surgeries. I cried constantly as I thought about the long hard road ahead. At the time I didn’t see an end in sight.

After starting chemotherapy I lost my hair almost immediately. Not only was my appearance beginning to change, my habits were changing as well. The chemotherapy drugs changed my taste buds, and everything I ate tasted horrible – as a result I wasn’t eating much. This was the hardest part for me to deal with because I love to eat. I would sit at my dinner table and cry over my food because I was so hungry, yet I wouldn’t eat because the food tasted so bad.

I was downright inconsolable at times; I felt so bad I wanted to die. It is difficult to say that, but I really did – the pain and depression was unbearable.

I was a very active person before the diagnosis. I thoroughly enjoyed running and teaching exercise classes. During this season I thought that part of my life was over. As I got stronger I would hit the trail running, not giving up and getting a little further each time. For the past three years I’ve run the Dallas Half Marathon. My Oncologist informed me that this particular year I would need to sit it out, but my 40

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

runs were getting stronger and longer. He finally gave in and gave me his blessing! I ran the Half Marathon in December 2016 during my very last month of treatment.

My battle with cancer taught me several lessons and confirmed for me many of the things I strongly believe. I have no doubt my active lifestyle helped my body to fight the disease. Because I believe so strongly in health and fitness I regularly encourage women to become as fit as they can be in preparation for anything life will throw at them.

My journey with this disease has also connected me to many women fighting their battles with cancer, and I am honored and humbled to assist them along their journey.

My battle with cancer also confirmed my faith in God. Although my physical body and mind were doubtful, my spirit remained strong.

Well, mostly strong. I battled with anxiety, depression, and fear, but by the grace of God I made it through!

There is no doubt I would not have made it this far without my commitment to my health through physical fitness and my faith in God. I give God all the glory for my victory over cancer. I was declared cancer free on June 3, 2016, and I celebrate life to the fullest, and I stand with all women who are forced to fight this insidious disease. nationalbreastcancer.org

North Texas Giving Day nets a record $58.8 million

W

ith the coronavirus pandemic creating even more community need, Arlington residents once Photo: St. Maria Goretti Catholic School again showed strong support for the city’s many hard-working nonprofits through Here’s how Saint Maria Goretti Catholic School promoted North Texas Giving Day. The effort earned the school the People’s Choice Award and a $10,000 donation from the Gene and Jerry Jones Family Arlington Youth Foundation donations made as part of last month’s North based on text votes during the North Texas Giving Day activities.

Texas Giving Day. Tomorrow Foundation help the school provide additional In all, a record-breaking $58.8 million was raised through enrichment activities for students, such as field trips, after-school 106,356 donations for non-profits across North Texas. Precisely music lessons and athletics.

8,580 donations totaling $2,020,815 were directed to Arlington “North Texas Giving Day has been one of the big events we nonprofits, exceeding last year’s record-setting 7,299 gifts do that brings our Grace Prep community together,” Parker totaling nearly $1.8 million. says. “We are a small school, but it gives us a chance to show off During this year’s fundraising event, the Arlington our students and families and tell the city about our mission.

Tomorrow Foundation sponsored a full day of live-streamed We are so thankful that the city and the Arlington Tomorrow concerts broadcast from the Levitt Pavilion and also awarded Foundation has embraced that. We love their support and $60,000 in grants to Arlington-based non-profits of all sizes. generosity.”

North Texas Giving Day is an annual 18-hour online giving New Day Arlington is another one of the many non-profits event, coordinated by the Communities Foundation of Texas, that value the fundraising power of North Texas Giving Day. The that encourages residents to make a contribution to the noncommunity’s donations during this annual event help New Day profit organization of their choice. All contributions made continue its mission of providing meals and snacks to Arlington between 6 a.m. and midnight on this day are matched in part Independent School District students. by the Communities Foundation. Since 2014, the Arlington “New Day provides weekend food for hungry children. Last Tomorrow Foundation has sponsored free community year, New Day delivered over 1,000 bags of food to Arlington concerts and awarded grants to recognize and highlight students each week. We are preparing to serve many more Arlington-based non-profit organizations and to help North students in the coming school year,” the nonprofit said in a video Texas Giving Day contributors’ dollars go even further. shared on the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation’s Facebook page.

“Along with our first responders and healthcare workers, “Volunteers buy, organize, pack and deliver the weekend bags to local charities are serving the community ensuring vital counselors in over 40 Arlington schools.” resources and other crucial community services are available Throughout the day, residents who dropped off donations at to help those most in need during the COVID-19 pandemic Levitt Pavilion Arlington enjoyed free concerts from Larry Gee, and those groups which our community has depending on Hannah Kirby and Brad Thompson, Bri Bagwell, Ron Bultongez for comfort, culture and care,” Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams and Radney Foster. These shows were live-streamed through says. the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation and the Levitt Pavilion Grace Preparatory Academy President Chris Parker says the Arlington’s Facebook pages. generous donations from the community and the Arlington arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

41

A PROPER SALUTE

community-based resources a little easier, for our families.”

The partnership also expands services United Way Mission United military initiative joins forces with and provides more options for veterans Texas Veterans Network to help service members transition and greater accessibility through the Combined Arms mobile app, available through iOS and Android app stores.

Active duty service members, veterans and military families can also he Arlington-based United Way of Tarrant County Mission access services by calling 844-4TX-VETS (844-489-8387) or visiting United military initiative recently joined Texas Veterans TexasVeterans.Network.

Network, the first interconnected statewide service for The program is expected to serve more than 4,000 annually in the transitioning service members, veterans and military families.

North Texas Region. Currently, about 500,000 active military and United Way of Tarrant County Mission United will be the North veterans call North Texas home.

Texas component of the network.

The Texas Veterans Network is made possible financially through the In partnership with Combined Arms, a Texas-founded and Texas Workforce Commission in partnership with The American Job Texas-operated nonprofit organization, and utilizing innovative Center Network and the generosity of the Walmart Foundation. technology, Texas Veterans Network provides access to services, resources and programming for active military, veterans and their families. This includes connecting those in need with Veteran Service Organizations, Community-Based Organizations, federal, state and local government programs.

“The need for veterans’ resources and services in North Texas has continued to grow, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Image: criminaljusticeschoolinfo.com says Leah King, president and CEO of United Way of Tarrant County. “We are seeing an increase in requests for assistance for basic needs such “THE NEED for veterans’ resources and as food, rent and utilities, and health care. Texas Veterans Network services in North Texas has continued to provides streamlined access to resources for the men and women grow, especially during the COVID-19 who have served our country, as well as their families. United pandemic.”

Way of Tarrant County Mission United is pleased to partner with Combined Arms to make navigating the vast landscape of

T

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ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

I

f there is one social element that the pandemic utterly destroyed, it is the gathering of large crowds. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Arlington is no exception, but fortunately, this year’s annual Walk is still happening on Saturday, Nov. 7. And it’s happening EVERYWHERE. “Although the world may look different right now, one thing hasn’t changed: our commitment to ending Alzheimer’s,” says Holly Clinton, Walk Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association. “This year, the Walk is going to be everywhere – on every sidewalk, track and trail throughout Arlington and surrounding areas!”

“This year’s event won’t be a large in-person gathering,” adds Liz Miller, Director of Special Events and Marketing for the North Central Texas Chapter of the Association. “Instead, we invite you to walk in small teams of friends and family while others in your community do the same. The health and safety of our walkers, volunteers and staff are our top priorities.”

One of those walkers this year is Arlington resident Camala Cunningham. Cunningham is walking for both her mother, Myrna Cline, and her best friend Cindy, both of whom she lost to Alzheimer’s this year.

always kind of flighty in the way many creative people are.”

When Cindy’s husband placed her in full time memory care in 2016, Camala visited her and was shocked. “She didn’t know who I was,” Cunningham recounts. “We had known each other since 2003.”

The decline of her mother was on a different level. “We finally had to place her in assisted living, but she seemed OK with it. She even decided she was not going to walk anymore, and we had to move her around in a wheelchair. She had good days that we would spend going outside to a Sonic or Whataburger.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Camala, like many others, was no longer able to see her mother face to face. “She was OK with FaceTime,” says Camala with a smile. “But the day finally came when we had to move her to hospice care in a hospital, where at least I could visit her, and finally say goodbye.”

This year, the Walk is especially poignant to Cunningham who sees it as a way to honor her two loved ones after losing them so recently. “I am just thrilled that the Walk is still taking place, and it’s being held in a way that ensures everyone’s safety,” she says. “It gives me an opportunity to honor both of them, while also contributing to finding The annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s is set for Nov. 7, and it a cure.”

Just like the hundreds of other walkers in will take place not in one locale, but all across the region the Arlington area who register, Cunningham doesn’t just walk on Nov. 7. She also raises funds throughout the year.

“Cindy developed Younger Onset Alzheimer’s in 2014 at the age “Nearly 80% of the funds raised from the Arlington Walk to End of 55, and passed away in March at age 61,” says Cunningham. “‘My Alzheimer’s directly fund the care, support, research, awareness and mom lived with dementia for at least six years before passing away advocacy efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association,” says Holly Clinton. in June. This has been a tough year.”

Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, Walk to Alzheimer’s is not just a disease of the elderly. “It can strike at End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and any time, and it’s never the same in two people,” says Cunningham. funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. The Alzheimer’s “My mother had issues with short-term memory, but seemed to be Association is the largest private funder of Alzheimer’s research in OK with long-term. She had been an elementary school principal the world. The nonprofit’s current research investment includes over in Mansfield and Arlington, and was always very structured and $208 million in 590 active best-of-field projects in 31 countries. disciplined. When she began to lose that daily structure, I knew “We would absolutely LOVE it if we worked ourselves out of a something was wrong.” job!” Clinton says.

“It took a bit longer to recognize when Cindy was having For more: act.alz.org/arlington. difficulties,” Cunningham continues. ““Cindy was an artist, and was

WALK THIS WAY!

arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

43

•

BEHIND THE WHEELS

Robert Massengale shows off the 1948 Delahaye 135M Chapron he restored for its owner, Ray Kinney. Massengale is a top choice among area collectors to help get their classics operating like new.

Photos: Richard Greene

A TRUE

FRENCH CLASSIC

Robert Massengale restored this 1948 Delahaye to near-perfect shape • By Richard Greene

R

ay Kinney’s 1948 Delahaye 135M Chapron was almost flawless. It just needed the skills of master craftsman Robert Massengale to get it running perfectly.

That meant the three carburetors would have to be rebuilt and synchronized, the brakes were locking up and that needed to be corrected, a bent shaft in the starter had to be straightened, it was past time for the 17-year-old tires to be replaced, so were the battery cables, and then full lubrication for the gear box and rear axle along with oil, coolant, and grease fittings.

So, Robert could then greet the car’s owner with, “Take a look, perfection has been achieved!”

Robert’s highly developed talents have made him a top

44

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

choice among area collectors of amazing cars. There doesn’t seem to be any challenge he can’t meet. He finds the parts he needs for almost anything that comes his way.

When something is so rare that there’s simply nothing available anywhere, he uses his fabrication skills and machines from scratch whatever is required to produce solutions to almost any mechanical problem or bodywork for just about everything that comes his way.

The greater the challenge, the more motivated he becomes in solving it. A visit to his shop provides an opportunity to see some work in progress and, for someone like me, it’s an observation that produces a response of, “Wow – how do you do that!?” >>>

Inside ...

Outside ...

Under the hood ...

arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

45

This amazing classic was designed by French automobile coachbuilder, Henri Chapron, who had developed custom body designs beginning in the 1920s that included special presidential models for the governments of Charles de Gaulle and Georges Pompidou.

Those were four-door convertibles first used for the visit of Queen Elizabeth II to France and continued through the inauguration of Jacques Chirac in 1995, long after Chapron’s death in 1978.

The Delahaye 135 heritage includes winning the Monte Carlo rally in 1937 and the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans the following year. Two more Delahayes came in second and fourth that year, and a year later, they finished first, second and fourth.

Twelve years later, the first ever Australian Grand Prix, staged over 35 laps of the race track laid out on the runways of a World War II airbase, was run a distance of 150.5 miles. Aussie racing hero John Crouch was in control of the open wheel version of the Delahaye on that occasion and piloted it to a first-place win in just an hour and 49 minutes.

So, the provenance that comes with Kinney’s Delahaye spans three-quarters of a century.

Owning one of these classics puts you in rare company and assures the admiration of collectors the world over.

Also known as “Coupe des Alpes” after its success in the Alpine Rally, the Delahaye 135 was first presented in 1935 following the auto maker’s decision to build sportier cars.

Innovations included independent, leaf-sprung front suspension, a live real axle, cable-operated Bendix brakes, 17-inch spoked wheels and a partially synchronized four-speed manual transmission.

Take a look at the shifter on the dashboard and you can imagine the engineering that developed the technology to move the car through the gears with a little more than a nudge of the handy chrome knob.

It is powered by a formidable inline, 6-cylinder engine with those three carburetors producing about 140 horsepower.

The prestigious Classic Driver website recently featured one of these cars and summed it up, “Delahayes have always been remarkable automobiles. They are interesting, quick, easy to control, and astonishing to look at.”

No one would challenge that conclusion because it’s all so very true.

46

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

As this collection of photos shows, this classic vehicle is marked by elite craftsmanship that makes it one of the world’s automotive treasures.

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©2014 SWBC. All rights reserved. Loans are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and conditions may apply. Programs and guidelines are subject to change without notice. Rates are subject to change daily. SWBC Mortgage Corporation NMLS #9741 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org), Corporate Office located at 9311 San Pedro Suite 100, San Antonio, TX 78216.

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UTA TODAY

T

odd Castoe, associate professor of biology at The University of Texas at Arlington, has co-authored two papers regarding the COVID-19 virus and its origins.

The first study, “Viral CpG deficiency provides no evidence that dogs were intermediate hosts of SARS-CoV-2,” was published in the July 13 edition Photo: UTA of the journal Molecular Biology and Evolution.

It disputes the findings of an earlier study from another research group claiming that the coronavirus may have jumped from dogs to humans.

The second is a study titled “Evolutionary origins of the SARS-CoV-2 sarbecovirus lineage responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic,” which was published in the July 28 edition of the journal Nature Microbiology. It reconstructs the evolutionary history of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the global COVID-19 crisis.

Blair Perry, a Ph.D. student in Castoe’s lab, is among the coauthors of both papers.

Castoe and David Pollock, professor of biochemistry and molecular genetics at the University of Colorado, are co-first authors of the Molecular Biology and Evolution academic paper and were joined by an international team of collaborators. The paper refutes an earlier study that concluded the coronavirus may have made the leap from dogs to humans.

“CONSIDERING the ramifications, scientists need to be particularly careful in interpreting findings and avoid rushing to conclusions that are not wellsupported by solid evidence. We need to get this right.”

– Todd Castoe

CoV-2 is not justified by the available evidence, the researchers concluded.

In the Nature Microbiology study, researchers traced the evolutionary history of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and discovered that its genetic lineage has been circulating in bats for decades and likely includes other viruses with the ability to infect humans. Their findings could help prevent future pandemics that stem from this lineage.

“Understanding the origins of SARS-CoV-2 is a major priority because it may provide evidence for how and why this virus was transferred to humans, and how similar transfers to humans may be prevented in the future,” Castoe says.

The team included scientists from the United States, Belgium, United Kingdom and China. They learned that the lineage of viruses to which SARS-CoV-2 belongs diverged from other bat viruses somewhere between 40-70 years ago. One trait that SARSCoV-2 shares with its relatives, the team found, is the receptor-binding domain located on the viral spike protein, which allows the virus to recognize and bind UTA biologist explores the origins of the coronavirus • By Greg Pederson to receptors on the surfaces of human cells. The researchers concluded that the existing diversity and the “Considering the ramifications, scientists need to be particularly recombination process among viruses in bats show how difficult it careful in interpreting findings and avoid rushing to conclusions will be to identify viruses with the potential to cause major outbreaks that are not well-supported by solid evidence,” Castoe says. “We in humans before they emerge. They state that effectively preventing need to get this right.” future pandemics will necessitate better sampling in wild bats and Castoe and his colleagues say that although the recent origin of the implementation of human disease surveillance systems that can SARS-CoV-2 is uncertain, the best current evidence suggests that it quickly identify novel pathogens in humans and make real-time was passed to humans by horseshoe bats or possibly pangolins, a kind response possible. of scaly anteater found in China. There is strong evidence that the Funding for the research was provided by the Medical Research virus has recently jumped between these animals or other intermediate Council, the European Research Council, the Research Foundation– hosts and humans.

Flanders, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

The proposition that dogs were likely recent ancestors of SARS-

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LOCAL DWELLINGS

HOME SWEET! HOME

Working with Mansfield Custom Homes, David and Tonya Cook have built a dwelling that marries nostalgic craftsman style with the perks of modern design.

Tonya and David Cook

Mansfield Mayor David Cook and his wife Tonya have a new downtown abode that confirms their optimism in the community

D

avid Cook has said it before: “It’s been a tough year for all of us, but I’m filled with optimism.” Along with being optimistic about the future of our state and country, David Cook, Mayor of Mansfield, and wife Tonya are filled with optimism about the future of Historic Downtown Mansfield. So much so, they have chosen to build their forever home in the area and are loving every minute of it.

Working with Mansfield Custom Homes, the couple united the things they love about the nostalgic craftsman style with the perks of modern design. Tonya’s attention to detail can be seen in every finish throughout the home, and, with this being their third home to build together, they really have thought of everything.

The surprise reading nook as you make your way upstairs, the Murphy bed camouflaged in ship-lap, the custom designed exterior doors opening up to the wrap around front porch and the oh-so-many gathering places throughout the inside and outdoors are just a few of the reasons we wanted to share this beautiful home with you.

For more information on Mansfield Custom Homes, call 682-552-4384.

– Julie Short

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ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Here is a “mini tour” of the Cook home, which features an array of beautiful and practical elements that make the dwelling special.

Photos courtesy of Mansfield Custom Homes

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Fall Has Arrived!

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from Anything Goes

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from Gracie Lane

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from Anything Goes

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from Anything Goes

from Anything Goes

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from Anything Goes

8 from Anything Goes

from Anything Goes

Fall Has Arrived!

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[Halloween Decor]

from Gracie Lane

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from Anything Goes

from Anything Goes

from Anything Goes

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from Gracie Lane

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PICTURE-PERFECT MOMENTS

Scene

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

Patriot Day Commemorations Mayor Jeff Williams pays tribute to the fallen during the 9-11 commemoration at the Levitt Pavilion.

Photos: City of Arlington

Arlington Police Officers presented the colors during the Levitt Pavilion ceremony.

Local veterans participated in the Levitt Pavilion memorial on Sept. 11.

Chaplain Rich Stoglin addresses the crowd at the event at the Levitt Pavilion.

Photos: Arlington Field of Honor

The Arlington Veterans Park Foundation organized the Patriot Day Field of Honor community display, which featured the flying of 911 flags at Veterans Park.

Arlington Fire Department Arlington’s TIFMAS team assisted with the wildfires in California.

Arlington Police Department

Photo: City of Arlington

Officer Barry Samples went below and beyond to rescue a citizen’s cell phone.

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North Texas Giving Day

Members of Girl Scout Troop 3518 folded the flags after the commemoration at Veterans Park.

Photos: Arlington Fire Department

TIFMAS team members prepare to take on one of the dozens of wildfires.

Photo: Levitt Pavilion Arlington

Hannah Kirby and Brad Thompson share news about the generous giving of local people during a North Texas Giving Day presentation at Levitt Pavilion Arlington.

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arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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MILESTONES

A tale of two

CHURCHES ...

West Fork Presbyterian Church

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rand Prairie’s West Fork United Presbyterian Church is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, although, technically, the history began in 1869, when Rev. Andrew Shannon Hayter arrived in the Watson Community and began talking with the men of the community about a church and a school. Here are some highlights of what transpired since: – In 1870, the same year that Texas was reinstated into the Union, Reverend Hayter organized the Good Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church and was its first pastor and a teacher.

– Rev. Hayter was also a surveyor and was serving in that capacity when the Texas and Pacific Railway Company came through the area in 1876 and purchased land for a town site. He is said to have named the town Arlington in honor of General Robert E. Lee’s home in Virginia.

Rev. Hayter is considered by many to be the “Father of Arlington.”

– The Good Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church was later renamed West Fork Church. Since the beginning of the West Fork Church, there have been three buildings. The original building was used from 1870 until 1905. The second church building was dedicated on July 2, 1905. After fires destroyed both the West Fork Church and the Watson School building in 1924, a third building was built and dedicated on April 18, 1926. This building is still in use today.

– When the Dallas-Fort Worth Turnpike came through, the building was moved to its present site on Santerre Drive in Grand Prairie, in what is now the Great Southwest Industrial District, in 1955. The Steeple was designed and constructed by Olin Wheeler in 1956. Later, a fellowship hall was added. The church was designated as a historical landmark in 1982.

West Fork Presbyterian is one of the oldest churches in the community to have Sunday worship service on a regular weekly basis for 150 years – that is, until Covid-19 hit in March. After a brief hiatus, services continue on the church lawn. facebook.com/pages/West-Fork-Presbyterian-Church/ 115887018432421

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... Ministering for 150 YEARS Bethlehem Baptist Church

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ansfield’s Bethlehem Baptist Church last month held a service to mark its 150th anniversary, making it the oldest predominantly African-American church in Tarrant County.

For the past 28 years, Bethlehem Baptist has been led by Rev. Dr. Michael A. Evans, Sr. He is the 19th pastor since the church was organized in 1870 by Rev. Green Medlin. Here are some highlights from the past 150 years: – In the early years, services were conducted in various homes before a “Brush Arbor” was constructed to host church meetings. Rev. Medlin remained as pastor for 22 years.

– In 1892, Rev. J. P. Phillips conducted services in the old school house located at what is now 1188 West Broad. In 1896, a church building and a parsonage were erected on East Broad. There was an “Amen Corner,” a “pot bellied” stove, and a post in the center of the building to support the structure.

– Rev. E. L. Pulluam arrived in 1931 and started the first church choir.

– In 1932, under Rev. C. C. Carson’s leadership, the church joined Zion Rest District Association and later the Elm Grove District Association.

– In 1946, Rev. L. E. Billingslea accepted the pastorate. Under his guidance the physical plant was remodeled several times; the church was now located on West Broad at what is now McClendon Park.

– In May 1991, 24-year-old Michael A. Evans became the youngest senior pastor called to serve at the Bethlehem Church. During Rev. Evan’s time of service, the church has been incorporated and it began offering oversight of the BBC Education Enrichment Inc., a non-profit organization designed to enhance area children’s ability to study and achieve educational goals. In addition, the church has initiated the creation of the “Historical West Mansfield Community Development Corporation, a non-profit corporation dedicated to the continuing economic and community development of the Western Sector of the City of Mansfield. bethlehemmansfield.org

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ATTRACTIONS

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he Wrangler® National Finals Rodeo is moving to the American Dream City. From Dec. 3 - 12, Arlington’s Globe Life Field will host the Wrangler NFR 2020 – the first nonbaseball event at the city’s newest entertainment treasure.

Event organizers confirmed the event will comply with all health and safety protocols for attendees. Globe Life Field officials have emphasized that recommended health and safety standards are being met. Safety measures will include a mask requirement at all times while inside Globe Life Field, and there will be additional hand washing and sanitizing stations throughout the building.

Fans attending Wrangler NFR 2020 can follow official PRCA updates throughout the event at prorodeo.com.

Principals on all sides of the historic agreement are waxing enthusiastic about the prospects of bringing the rodeo to town.

“We are so pleased to be at this amazing stadium for the most celebrated event on the rodeo calendar,” says George Taylor, chief executive officer of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.

“We are committed to delivering a spectacular event for our fans and we are thrilled to be in Texas for it.”

“We are honored that the PRCA selected Globe Life Field to host the 2020 Wrangler Nationals Final Rodeo and are thrilled to be a small part of bringing this world-class event back to Texas,” says Neil Leibman, chief operating officer of the Texas Rangers.

To further ensure fan safety, seats will be sold in groups of four with separation between groups. Contact-limiting measures, such as mobile tickets, will be implemented throughout the event. There will also be metal detector screenings and a no-bag policy at entries on performance nights.

Globe Life Field is encouraging all guests to check the CDC and the Texas Department of State Health Services websites for any guideline changes prior to the event.

The Arlington and Fort Worth convention and visitors’ bureaus and sports commissions are rolling out the welcome for this oneof-a-kind event, and both cities have worked hard to bring the Wrangler NFR to Globe Life Field.

“From cattle drives, museums and even the names of our professional sporting teams, our love of cowboy culture runs deep here in Tarrant County,” Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams says. “I can think of no better choice for the Super Bowl of rodeo than to be hosted here in the heart of North Texas. Arlington and Fort Worth have so many family friendly attractions and rich experiences to offer rodeo fans who will be traveling from across the country to cheer on these professional cowboys as they strive to set new records and achieve their American Dream in the arena.”

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Wrangler National Finals Rodeo is heading to Arlington Photo: reviewjournal.com

Nearby Fort Worth will also play host to the Wrangler NFR 2020 experience, as the annual PRCA Convention will be held from Nov. 30 - Dec. 3, in addition to the Cowboy Christmas and a slew of other fan-favorite events.

The NFR was born in Texas, but it moved to Las Vegas in 1985. The venue that hosts it annually is not available for live entertainment with fans this year due to coronavirus restrictions in Nevada. In a survey earlier this summer, rodeo fans said overwhelmingly that they wanted an NFR venue that would accommodate fans.

“Part of what makes Globe Life Field work for us is the ability to bring in fans and deliver the full NFR experience,” Taylor says.

The PRCA began looking for an alternate venue earlier in the summer. The State of Texas, the Texas Rangers and Globe Life Field stepped up. Ultimately, this has been a thoughtful partnership between Texas, Globe Life Field, the cities of Arlington and Fort Worth, the Arlington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Visit Fort Worth, and the Sports Commissions of both Arlington and Fort Worth.

The Wrangler NFR is a 10-day event that includes the fanfavorite Cowboy Christmas, as well as the PRCA National Convention. The schedule also includes nightly Buckle Presentations, Benny Binion’s World Famous Wrangler NFR Bucking Horse Sale, the PRCA Awards Banquet and Gala and the Pro Rodeo League of Women Style Show and Luncheon.

Tickets for Wrangler NFR 2020 are on sale via the website texasrangers.com/NFR.

TO MARKET, TO MARKET TO HAVE A GREAT TIME T

he acclaimed Farmers Market at Market Square (120 W. Main St., in downtown Grand Prairie) is open five Saturdays this month – on Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31.

Customers can find locally grown fruits and vegetables, plants, tamales, baked goods, salsas, dips, relishes, eggs, honey, chips, soaps, candles and more. (We decided this was a good time to allow your brain a chance to process all that goodness.)

There are all manner of ways to appreciate the market, whether you’re a vendor or prospective vendor, a regular or first-time shopper or a volunteer.

In each case your senses will be overcome by the vast sights and pleasing aromas emanating from Market Square. The one-half acre park has a building that features bays for up to six vehicles to sell produce and other goods. The architecture is reminiscent of a red barn with a corrugated tin roof, evoking ties with the city’s history.

HELP THE AEF, PLAY BINGO AND LAUGH ... A LOT

T

he Arlington ISD Education Foundation, in partnership with the acclaimed improvisational comedy troupe Four Day Weekend (pictured), will host its first Night of Virtual BINGO at 7 p.m. on Oct. 17. The event is designed to raise money for the ever-changing needs of the Arlington Independent School District during unprecedented times created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

AISD is facing new challenges while navigating online learning. AISD teachers and administration are working tirelessly to ensure students receive education, food, social and emotional support and much more.

All you have to do to help this cause, this month, anyway, is invest in some laughter and try to fill your BINGO card faster than the other virtual players fill theirs.

Four Day Weekend, voted Best Comedy and named “Best Entertainment Experience in Texas,” presents a hilarious improv-based show that leaves audience members slapping their knees – and then wondering “how do they come up with all that funny stuff on the spot?”

Even some folks in Washington, D.C., have wondered the same thing – Four Day Weekend has performed for two U.S. presidents and delivered a keynote address to the United States Congress.

AEF has put together sponsorship packages of varying levels for the fundraiser. Your business will receive BINGO cards to distribute to staff/friends/ family, or you can donate your cards to AISD teachers who want to get in the game, which offers BINGO-esque prizes to the winners.

For more: charityauction.bid/bingo.

MANSFIELD’S THE LOT DOWNTOWN IS GETTING FIT

W

hat do you do when the COVID-19 pandemic plays havoc with your ritual of packing folks into your venue for music, movies and a smattering of the proverbial other?

If you’re The Lot Downtown in Mansfield, you don’t pitch a fit. Rather, you find a unique way to help your community to get fit.

At 8 a.m. on Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 – all the Saturdays this month – The LOT Downtown and the Cooper Street YMCA are teaming for a free exercise series. The pros will lead attendees in an outdoor 45+ minute workout for various levels of exercise on the lawn at The LOT Downtown (110 S. Main St.).

arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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NEIGHBORHOODS

MAGNOLIA LIFESTYLE CENTER OPENS AT VIRIDIAN

E

lements at Viridian has reached another milestone: the opening of the Magnolia Lifestyle Center. Exclusive to the residents of the 55+ active-adult community, the Magnolia Lifestyle Center offers a host of interior and exterior features to encourage an engaged lifestyle, says Kristi Hulme, lifestyle director for Elements at Viridian.

The 6,668-square-foot clubhouse includes a nearly 2,900-squarefoot fitness facility complete with cardio and strength training equipment. The clubhouse also includes a demonstration kitchen and gathering area for impromptu and planned events.

“We are following the recommended guidelines from the governor’s office regarding occupancy but look forward to when we can host large-scale events for all of our residents in this beautifully appointed space,” Hulme says. “Right now, our residents are enjoying all of our outdoor features and our fitness facility, but the indoor clubhouse is open by appointment only.”

A 3,462-square-foot covered terrace provides ample room for residents to gather outside. The complex also includes an infinity

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pool, courts for bocce ball and pickleball, a putting green, a fire pit and outdoor kitchen with a Big Green Egg. “We’ve been hosting events for residents since last September; having our recreation complex open will help residents connect even more and further enjoy the friendships they have already been making,” Hulme says.

More than 100 homes have sold in Elements since sales began last spring, with more than half of those happening this year.

“This fills a much-needed niche, providing active adults a place where they can enjoy a lifestyle catered to their specific interests, but still be able to live near children and grandchildren,” says Robert Kembel, general manager of Viridian. “We sold homes last year before the models even opened.”

David Weekley Homes, Drees Custom Homes and Lennar offer homes in Elements. The one-story floor plans offer open-concept living areas, two and three bedrooms, walk-in showers, abundant lighting and more.

For more: viridiandfw.com.

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arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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TRAVEL

8 great fall outdoor getaways

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Visit Tyler State Park anytime during fall season, and you’ll thank yourself later for doing it. You can enjoy swimming early in the season and hiking at any time. Mid-fall, in early November, Tyler is also a great place for fall foliage.

This fall, take advantage of the cooler weather to explore Colorado Bend State Park and its jaw-dropping Gorman Falls, one of the biggest waterfalls in volume of water and height in the Texas State. You also can tour caves in their natural state (via guided tours).

Caddo Lake near Jefferson, Texas, is the only natural lake in Texas and home to the largest bald cypress tree forest in the world.

You can explore Caddo Lake by boat – several companies offer tours through the swamps.

Because you need cooler weather to truly appreciate a visit to Enchanted Rock (and its primo hiking opportunities), fall is the ideal time for said venture. This is a “must try” experience for Texans. The hike is steep, but not too harsh – and the view is grand.

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Photos and information are courtesy of the website, dallaswanderer.com.

You can visit it to discover more about these outdoor getaway spots.

that aren’t very far from here

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is one of Oklahoma’s more famous and beautiful nature spots and only a short drive away from Arlington. Like the others, this is best experienced during the fall, when you’ll really appreciate the colorful scenery.

This is beautiful Daingerfield State Park, one of the better sites in easy driving distance from Arlington for fall foliage and autumn colors. Activities in the Piney Woods regional park include hiking, paddling, fishing and camping.

Known as one of the better places in the Southwest for fall foliage, Talimena National Scenic Byway runs for 54 miles along the crest of Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain in the Ouachita National Forest in Oklahoma.

Turner Falls is the closest waterfall to Arlington – and the largest in Oklahoma. In fall, the crowds slacken considerably, and Turner Falls converts into a nature lover’s oasis, with crystal-clear water and gorgeous autumn colors.

arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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PICTURE-PERFECT MOMENTS

Scene

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

The City of Grand Prairie

Photo: City of Grand Prairie

Mayor Ron Jensen and GP Pickleball players are ready for Chicken N Pickle, opening 2021.

Cinderella Ball Mary Nelle Cravens is the 2020 Miss Cinderella.

All of the Miss Cinderella candidates

Miss Cinderella Mary Nelle Cravens and her family

Miss Cinderella candidate Lilly Deane and her family are all smiles at the Ball.

Miss Cinderella candidate Karina Pompa and her escort Clay Fratto pose with her family.

To cap the evening, Miss Cinderella danced with her father, Carl Cravens.

City of Arlington-TX Animal Services

Photos: City of Arlington

Partnering with Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County, City of Arlington, TX - Animal Services is able to help residents keep their pets safe at home after more than 2,000 pounds of pet food was recently purchased with a $2,500 grant from Best Friends Animal Society.

Mansfield Mission Center

Photo: City of Mansfield

Tom Thumb/Albertsons donated $10,000 to Mansfield Mission Center on North Texas Giving Day.

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The grand opening of The Beacon

Photo: City of Arlington

Dignitaries participate in the formal ribbon-cutting ceremony during the grand opening of The Beacon Recreation Center in southeast Arlington.

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NEWS & NOTES

Bulletin Board Sharefest-Texas continues to lend a helping hand

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Coffee & food for a worthy cause

N

ewly opened Grounds and Gold is a local café serving gourmet coffee, homemade baked goods and made-from-scratch dishes. Oh, and it also serves the community.

G&C (4130 S. Bowen Road) was built on the foundation of fostering community through providing a warm gathering place, as well as providing community outreach through “Heart of Gold” notes and donations to local charities. Owners Maurice Ahern, Jenifer and Jimmy Kinley are honoring Maurice’s late son Micah, who died of cancer, by donating a portion of every sale to support other heroes just like him fighting cancer. groundsandgold.com

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ast month, we told how SharefestTexas was at the heart of a project that supplies bicycles to those needing transportation to and from work. Now the organization has a new venture in the works.

Founder John Thielman has implemented the “Right-Size” Initiative, where every other month he gets a truck at a local U-Haul location and picks up any excess items that his Viridian neighbors want to donate to local charities, including Arlington Urban Ministries, Safe Haven and Mission Arlington.

As Sharefest-Texas was founded on engaging youth for the purpose of performing community service, Thielman has used student muscle to grow the project so much that “in one very hot August,” they filled vans and 20-foot truckloads and delivered so much donated material that Arlington Urban Mission’s NU2U store in Pantego had to add temporary facilities to store inventory.

The organization also delivered to Safe Haven’s Berry Good Buys in southeast Fort Worth. And last month the group collected enough items from 20 benevolent Viridian home owners to fully furnish the apartment of a AUM client-family. sharefest-texas.org

Here’s your chance to help your community

L

ooking for a new way to give back to your hometown? Consider volunteering for one of dozens of community service projects identified across The American Dream City for the upcoming Unite Arlington weekend, Oct. 3-4.

The event is organized

by Engage Arlington, a collaboration of churches seeking to create a communitywide movement of working together for the betterment of Arlington.

During the Unite Arlington weekend service project, volunteers can participate in efforts such as park clean ups, home repairs for seniors, and school beautification. At least 85 indoor and outdoor projects for volunteers of all skill sets have been identified so far and at least 600 volunteers are sought for the event, which will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, organizers said.

“We’re living in a time where there is so much division. This is an opportunity for people to come together, meet new people, and unite to help others,” says Art Hooker with Engage Arlington. unitearlingtontx.org

Texas Health Heart & Vascular Hospital Arlington earns Platinum Performance award

T

exas Health Heart & Vascular Hospital Arlington was one of five Texas Health Resources facilities in the region to earn the American College of Cardiology’s National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR) Chest Pain – MI Registry Performance Achievement Award.

Texas Health Heart & Vascular Hospital Arlington (joint venture) was presented a Platinum Performance Achievement Award.

It achieved eight consecutive quarters performing at the top level of standards for specific performance measures (the most comprehensive monitoring tool and the highest level of participation for performance improvement and performance achievement).

The national award annually recognizes hospitals that provide a high standard of care for patients suffering a heart attack, which is when a blood clot in a coronary artery blocks blood flow to the heart.

East Arlington Library Branch will have new facility soon

T

he East Arlington Branch (1624 New York Ave.) is closed to the public in preparation for its move into a new facility. This new dual-facility is a collaborative project between the Library and Parks and Recreation departments. This 47,249 square-foot facility is set to open in early November.

During this time, all other library locations will remain open to the public. The closest library location to the East Arlington Branch is the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library, located at 100 S. Center St. Computers, faxing, and printing will be available at the Downtown Library. Other services will be relocated or temporarily unavailable during the moving process. shorturl.at/iFKUW

New Create Arlington supports the ambitions of creators/entrepreneurs

T

he new Create Arlington is a unique coworking space supporting the ambitions of creators and entrepreneurs.

Located at 306 W. Main St., Create Arlington has been created for visual artists, web designers, photographers, writers, illustrators, sculptors, and streamers who need space to express and market their talents. Member benefits include: • Work spaces to share or claim for yourself • Pitch opportunities for your startup • Collaborative marketing events • Creative and entrepreneur skills training • Remote mailbox (included with monthly rate) • Three easel stations • Drawing/drafting tables • 6-foot art work tables • Free table for the Third Thursday Pop Up Market In addition, members have access to Create Arlington Angel Investors, who listen to member pitches and can provide business advice and funding for start-up businesses. Create Arlington supports minority and women-owned business enterprises (MBE + WBE). createarlington.com

arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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DINING GUIDE

Keen Cuisine UPSCALE

Piccolo Mondo

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

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

Mac’s Bar & Grill

frieddaze • 5005 S. Cooper St., Suite 159 • 817-472-6666 • frieddaze.com The Grease Monkey • 200 N. Mesquite St. • 817-665-5454 • greasemonkeyburgers.com J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill • 400 E. Abram St. • 817-274-8561 • jgilligans.com Mac’s Bar & Grill • 6077 W. I-20 • 817-572-0541 • macsteak.com

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

El Arroyo

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

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

INTERNATIONAL Prince Lebanese Grill • 502 W. Randol Mill • 817-469-1811• princelebanesegrill.com 68

ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Café Sicilia

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SPEAKING OF SPORTS

Cowboys will be fun, but will they be good?

The Cowboys should take the advice of Zeke Elliott’s tattoo and “feed” him the ball.

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Photo: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

successor, Dalton Schultz, promptly led the team in receptions in t is one of the more famous phrases during the Dallas the Cowboys’ improbable 40-39 win over Atlanta in his first start Cowboys 25 year “rebuilding” process. At his first press of the season. conference in 2003 new head coach Bill Parcells uttered the So the problem must be with the defense, right? Well, it cold hard truth, “you are what you are.” too suffered a significant loss in week one when linebacker The team had just completed back to back-to-back, 5-11 Leighton Vander Esch broke his collarbone (he is expected seasons. So in truth, it was pretty easy to tell what they were: to miss about half of the season). When Sean Lee started They were a bad football team. These days it is not so easy to the season on injured reserve, unfortunately, no one was tell. Over the course of the past three years the Cowboys were surprised. He is a great player and leader when he is healthy.

27-21. During that span they finished second in the NFC East He is just not healthy often enough. The linebacking corps did twice, and once they won the division. But this does not feel get a nice addition in the off season when the Cowboys took a like a championship caliber team. chance on Aldon Smith. His demon-plagued past behind him, So a month into the season we wonder, what are these Smith has been a pleasant surprise. The secondary has a mix of Cowboys? Last year they had the NFL’s No. 1 total offense and experience and youth with the addition of Trevon Diggs from the No. 2 passing offense. Then in the off season they used their Alabama. The defensive line is good, first-round pick to make the offense not great. even better when they drafted a This side of the ball may be all about difference making wide receiver, John Rhadigan coaching. Defensive coordinator Mike CeeDee Lamb. All of this is to say Nolan is a good man and a career they clearly have enough offense to coach. He has been on four college win. And yet last year they finished coaching staffs and 13 NFL teams. He 8-8 and did not make the playoffs.

WHEN YOU have a running also served as head coach of the 49ers There is so much to like about this from 2005-08. All but one of his jobs offense. Led by Dak Prescott, it can back as good, and as have been on the defensive side of the move the ball prolifically. It can score hungry, as Zeke, you should football. quickly and it is very well balanced. It let the run set up the pass.

The good news about the Cowboys boasts Zeke Elliott, the best running and the league is that so many games back in the NFL (in my opinion). The are close. As such, most of the Cowboys games this year will be receiving corps is as deep as any in the league, and the line is very exciting and fun to watch (see the aforementioned Atlanta still good enough to open holes for Zeke and keep Dak off his game, during which Dallas rallied from a 20-point deficit to back. There is enough talent left for this offense to pick up where secure the victory). it left off last year. That is if Mike McCarthy and Kellen Moore The bad news is that the Cowboys have not been great in will read Zeke’s belly. Boldly tattooed across his midsection are those close games. Last year they had seven one-possession the words “feed me.” games, that is games decided by 8 points or less. Their record If the Cowboys are willing to buck the offensive trend in the in those seven was 1-6.

NFL and “feed” Zeke the ball, they will have a much better It has been 17 years since Parcells reminded us that “you chance at repeating as the best total offense in the league. When are what you are.” But he turned it around in one year. After you have a running back as good, and as hungry, as Zeke, you those three straight 5-11 seasons the 2003 Cowboys went 10-6 should let the run set up the pass. It worked for the ‘90s Cowboys. and qualified for the playoffs. Here’s hoping that this coaching The offense did suffer a loss in week one of the season when tight change yields similar results. end Blake Jarwin was lost for the year with a torn ACL. But his Sports columnist John Rhadigan is an anchor for the Fox Sports Southwest television network.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

CASA OF TARRANT COUNTY’S VIRTUAL SUPERHERO RUN ARLINGTON Today your community • your magazine

KICK-OFF EVENT: OCT 24, 10AM-1PM AT CENTRAL BIBLE CHURCH

Drive through and pick up your goody bag, shirt and medal! Don’t miss candy giveaways, superhero appearances and fun activities.

VIRTUAL RUN: OCT 24-31, LOCATION OF YOUR CHOICE

Track your run through the ASICS Runkeeper app, receive prizes delivered to your door and participate in FUN contests including best selfie and best costumes!

To register visit SpeakUpForAChild.org

arlingtontoday.com • October 2020 • ARLINGTON TODAY

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EVENTS, ETC.

Itinerary Dallas Cowboys football This month, your Dallas Cowboys play host to the Cleveland Browns (at noon on Oct. 4), the New York Giants (at 3:25 p.m. on Oct. 11) and the Arizona Cardinals (at 7:15 p.m. on Oct. 19). For more: dallascowboys.com.

Photo: nflspinzone.com

Abraham Alexander

Josh Ward

Levitt Pavilion’s Living Room Series You can join the Levitt Pavilion on Facebook Live for five Living Room Series concerts this month. All of the shows begin at 8 p.m. Featured artists include Micky & the Motorcars on Oct. 2, Legacy 4 on Oct. 9, Abraham Alexander on Oct. 16, Hayes Carll on Oct. 17 and Josh Ward on Oct. 18.

For more: levittpavilionarlington.org.

Concerts at Arlington Music Hall Thirteen concerts are on tap this month at Arlington Museum Hall (224 N. Center St.). The scheduled lineup includes Infinite Journey (8 p.m. on Oct. 2), Jim Curry’s “A Tribute To The Music of John Denver” (7:30 p.m. on Oct. 3), The Association (at 8 p.m. on Oct. 8), Rich Little (at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 9), Jason Crabb (at 2 p.m. on Oct. 10), Donny Edwards’ “An Authentic Heart & Soul Tribute to THE KING” (at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 10), Aaron Tippin (at 8 p.m. on Oct. 16), Michael Winslow (at 8 p.m. on Oct. Aaron Tippin 17), The Limeliters (at 8 p.m. on Oct. 22), Johnny Rodriguez (at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 23), Curtis Grimes (at 8 p.m. on Oct. 24), Moses Snow (at 2 p.m. on Oct. 25), Lorrie Morgan (at 8 p.m. on Oct. 29) and MJ Live (at 8 p.m. on Oct. 30).

For more: arlingtonmusichall.net.

River Legacy Clay Shoot is set for Oct. 25 River Legacy Foundation’s 11th annual Sporting Clay Shoot will be held on Oct. 25 at the Defender Outdoors Clay Sports Ranch (8270 Aledo Road, Fort Worth). Registration begins at 8 a.m. Tournament highlights include free ammo and lunch, 100 rounds of clays, a signature gift, raffles, beer and an award ceremony. For more: riverlegacy.org.

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ARLINGTON TODAY • October 2020 • arlingtontoday.com

Knox Martin exhibition The Arlington Museum of Art will present “Knox Martin: Living Legend” through Oct. 8. Martin is a celebrated painter, sculptor and muralist, whose works have been displayed in museums worldwide.

For more: arlingtonmuseum.org.

Image: knoxmartin.com

Are you up for a bike ride?

Arlington Critical Mass will hold its monthly bicycle ride at 7 a.m. on Oct. 5 at the Levitt Pavilion.

The rides are meant to bring together Arlington cyclists of all stripes. For more: facebook.com/ ArlingtonCriticalMass.

Photo: Arlington Critical Mass

OCT

2

OCT

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OCT

9

OCT

10

OCT

GIOVANNIE & THE HIRED GUNS

16 OCT

THE RAY JOHNSTON BAND

17 OCT

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LEGACY 4

ABRAHAM ALEXANDER

HAYES CARLL

JOSH WARD

RANDY ROGERS BENEFIT CONCERT

All Levitt Living Room concerts are at 8 p.m. live-streamed on the Levitt Pavilion Arlington Facebook page with limited reserved seating on the lawn.

Randy Rogers with

Brady Black

&

Geoffrey Hill S at, O c t 1 0 | 8 p m With special guests September Moon at 7 PM

Tickets on sale now!

levittpavilionarlington.org

•

THE FINISH LINE

Women emerge as Chamber of Commerce leaders

Jacquelyn Minor, Joni Wilson, Kelly Biegler, Kellie Fischer, Beth Owens, Kim Crawford and Stephanie Willmon

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These women are active members of the Chamber and community s we conclude this issue celebrating successful women in that were nominated by their peers to champion the Chamber’s the business communities our magazine serves, it provides mission and core strategies. The Chamber serves an invaluable an opportunity to recognize the women who have risen purpose in Greater Arlington as the voice of business in the to significant positions of leadership in the Greater Arlington community. They all have the ability to make an impact and leave Chamber of Commerce. their personal mark.”

For only the second time in the 75-year history of the city’s It really is no surprise that women have elevated to the top of the primary business organization, a woman will serve as chairman organization. It was almost 10 years ago that the Women’s Alliance of the chamber’s board of directors. The first female to occupy that was created. Over the years, the Alliance has grown in strength, position was Dr. Judith Carrier in 2005-2006. impact and numbers.

Kellie Fischer, the Chief Financial Officer of The Texas Rangers The Inspired Women’s Luncheon is a sell-out every year and Baseball Club, has received the gavel from outgoing Chairman Don is one of the Chamber’s largest events with over 700 attendees.

Duke who, together with President and CEO Michael Jacobson, has Through the Women’s Alliance $92,500 has been raised and piloted the organization through the only time in the Chamber’s delivered as scholarships to deserving history during a national pandemic. women.

Kellie will serve with other women The Women’s Alliance now has more who are chairing all but one of the Richard Greene than 340 members who actively engage Chamber’s major committees. They together to support the growth of appear in the picture you see here. professional women and women-owned Kim Crawford, a partner with Sutton businesses. Thanks to the leaders in 2011, Frost Cary, LLP, chairs the Finance “IT’S EXCITING to see this Beth Owens, Letatia Teykl, Sarah Merrill Committee; Kelly Biegler, Public Young and Andrea Proctor, who had the Affairs Manager for Atmos Energy group of business leaders vision to create an alliance that would Corporation, heads up the Public Policy heading up our Chamber foster an environment that would lead to Committee; next is Dr. Jacquelyn Minor, this year.” the level of leadership that exists today.

Academic Foundations Department This year has challenged every Chair of Tarrant College Southeast business, large and small, to innovate and develop ways to operate Campus who chairs the Women’s Alliance Advisory Council; Beth and prosper when COVID-19 lockdowns meant there would Owens, Principal of BrandEra, Inc., became chair of the Marketing be no business as usual. A “new normal” would emerge in the Committee; Stephanie Willmon, Director of Administration of ways people could access their places of employment, if at all, as Six Flags Over Texas/Hurricane Harbor, heads up the Partners everything changed for restaurants, shops, stores and even the in Education Advisory Council, and Joni Wilson, Senior Vice city’s largest company, the General Motors Assembly Plant.

President of Affiliated Bank, is chair of the Business Development The emerging role of the Chamber was to innovate its service Advisory Council. delivery system to all its members and become a resource where Jacobson’s enthusiasm for the roles they will fill is unmistakable. answers and solutions to challenges never faced before could be “The Greater Arlington Chamber enters its new fiscal year with a found. strong set of leadership,” he says. “It’s exciting to have this group of That assignment now transitions into the hands of the new business leaders heading up our Chamber this year. We are reaping leadership described here, and all of the Chamber team fully the benefits of engaging women across our organization. embraces the assignment with confidence of the road forward.

“All Chamber groups are independently managed and elected.

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

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Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4: 6-7 NIV

Winner

2019-2020 Readers’ Choice

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