Thursday, September 18
5–8 p.m. | FREE
Enjoy an exclusive evening with free food and tunes for college and graduate students. Listen to music in the galleries, make some art, and get inspired by the Carter’s collection!
Clean Skillet
The Frogs and Ponies meet for the 104th time, potentially the last for a while.
BY BUCK D. ELLIOTT
The Horned Frogs are 2-0, and it feels like we have so much to catch up on, but at the same time, there’s little Frog football to dissect from the first two games and subsequent lopsided victories. 48-14 — that isn’t just the age gap between Bill Belichick and his girlfriend dashed across from former Giant Lawrence Taylor’s preferred age for a romantic partner. It was the score of TCU’s domination of the Tar Heels.
Full transparency: After UNC mowed through the Frogs during their first drive like my sons do a box of nutritionally garbage cereal, I was a little worried, and everyone attending in powder blue was ready to hand Belichick a lifetime contract. That’s when the fairytale ended, and the Horned Frogs rattled off 41 offensive and defensive points before North Carolina found the endzone again for the second and final time.
The most exciting part of the opening game was that it wasn’t. Josh Hoover (#10), outside of the opening drive, was remarkably accurate and seemingly unstoppable: 27/36 for 284 yards and two scores by the end of the evening. Kendal Briles called 35 rushes for a combined 258 yards and two touchdowns to complement Hoover, and five purple running backs saw action, exactly the balance fans should want to see from a team that seems able to compete with anyone in the conference right now.
Veteran safety Bud Clark (#21) snagged an interception and returned it for a score, and Devean Deal (#11) scooped a fumble for six as well. Two newcomers — running back Kevorian Barnes (#2) and wide receiver Jordan Dwyer (#7) — exclaimed their presence with 113 rushing yards and 136 receiving
yards, respectively, and a touchdown each. Dwyer was Hoover’s favorite target early and often. Eric McAlister (#1) drew full-time attention from the Heels’ best cornerback, leaving Dwyer open throughout the evening while he accumulated nine receptions.
Barnes, a transfer from UTSA, excites me (in a completely platonic way). His majestic dreadlocks taunted defenders as he powered past them with speed and explosiveness all evening. In what looks like a stacked backfield right now, Barnes seems to have the greatest game-breaking potential from a traditional running back sense and pass blocks like a jack-in-the-box with Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
Enough good news and praise, because despite two feel-good weeks against UNC and Abilene Christian, whom the Frogs beat 42-21 on Saturday, it’s time for the first real test of the season. The game against SMU has surely been circled since TCU’s 66-42 loss last season during one of the sloppiest games I’ve witnessed from the Frogs since I started following the Iron Skillet series in the mid 1990s.
This game might determine which school retains the humble but iconic trophy for the rivalry’s longest-ever layoff.
Since the teams started clashing in 1915, they’ve never taken more than two years off at a time without meeting (1919-20 and the 1987-88 death penalty years). Other than those, there are only a smattering of odd seasons where the two cross-city rivals didn’t brave the gridiron so fans could razz about whose trust fund was bigger.
Like our Frogs, we don’t have much concrete information about how good the Mustangs are this season. The Horsies surrendered more than 600 yards in an overtime loss to Baylor, but otherwise they’ve paid two opponents and logged two completely unremarkable victories. What should give every fanatic pause is what we’ve seen from Andy Avalos’ defense thus far, which can only be described — and charitably — as mixed.
The Tar Heels were locked down outside of their opening drive, and the Frogs frustrated
starting quarterback Gio Lopez until he was benched in favor of Max Johnson, son of Super Bowl-winning quarterback Brad Johnson. Max, a true pocket passer, showed poise and precision as he exposed an unprepared secondary for UNC’s second score of the game, granted it was far out of reach at that point.
ACU was held scoreless in the first half, thanks in part to the Wildcats’ kicking woes as they missed two field goals and trailed 28-0 at halftime. Veteran quarterback Stone Earle found his swagger in the second half and helped his offense rebound for 21 points and nearly 300 yards through the air. Saturday was never in question, but Earle clearly carved a Frog defense that — at least when in zone coverage — is anything but lockdown against competent passers. That should scare Frog faithful when SMU visits on Saturday morning.
If that Baylor-SMU game was any indication, we’re probably in for another shootout. SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings (#7) tossed for more than 3,000 yards during their playoff-appearance run last season, has already thrown for more than 800 this season, and is a rushing threat as well. The Frogs did cough up the ball five times in last year’s meeting (three fumbles and two interceptions), four of which Hoover was directly responsible for. Hopefully, the maturity and confidence from Hoover continues, and a clean game from the Frogs results.
Avalos’ defense showed themselves to be a mostly capable unit against UNC but less so against Abilene Christian, though in a film sense they’re not rewarded for revealing clever coverages or tricky stunts against a team they overmatched in a game that was decided early. Historically, TCU rebounds well after losing to that team in Dallas, having not lost in consecutive seasons since 19921993. (TCU lost in 2019 and 2021, but the 2020 game was canceled.)
Dykes is undoubtedly ready to retrieve the trophy he’d possessed up until last season, winning it first with the Mustangs in 2019, then usurping it during his first season with TCU. The Frogs still hold a 10-victory lead over the Ponies in the all-time series, but Saturday morning’s game might prove the most significant in the modern era. Both teams are back in power conferences (though different ones), and each can boast a somewhat recent playoff appearance. Moreover, whoever steals the skillet is able to put a big fat TBD on when they’ll be challenged for it again, as it will surely be the series’ longest-ever layoff. “To be determined” is a long time when you’re thinking about when fans might have a chance to reclaim bragging rights, and I’m sure we’d all sleep soundly each night on puffy pillows of money and hubris. l
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Jordan Dwyer (#7) has already emerged as Josh Hoover’s most consistent connection, logging 14 catches, 225 yards, and two scores against the Frogs’ first two opponents.
LIVING LOCAL ART
SUNDANCE SQUARE CAR & CULTURE SHOW 2025
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a vibrant showcase of lowriders, music, dance, art, food and culture
The public is invited for the 3rd Annual Sundance Square Car & Culture Show this Saturday.
The free family-friendly show brings 120+ lowriders, live music, food vendors, and an artisan market to the heart of Fort Worth.
Hosted by Sundance Square in partnership with the legendary Duke’s Car Club—the oldest continuously operating lowrider club in the world—the show will bring more than 120 lowriders, motorcycles, and bicycles to the Plaza and surrounding streets.
Mark your calendar for this festive celebration of Hispanic artistry and community!
Throughout Saturday afternoon and evening, the Plaza will come alive with performances by North Side High School Mariachi, Oakcliff Soul Collective, Ballet Folklorico de Fort Worth, and Pa’lante. Guests can also join free Cumbia dance lessons from 6–7 p.m., before the evening culminates with a headline performance by Quimikoz del Son from 7–10 p.m.
Alongside the music and cars, a local market will showcase artisan vendors and food favorites such as arepas, tacos, empanadas, and churros. Visitors can also explore three concurrent fine art exhibitions exploring the Car & Culture theme – reflections on Latin identities, lowrider heritage, and Hispanic
SUNDANCE SQUARE CAR & CULTURE SHOW 2025
When: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Time: Noon to 10 pm
Place: Sundance Square Plaza
Free: No admission cost / Family-friendly
culture – at Caravan of Dreams, 400h, and Zona7 galleries (all on Houston Street) near the Plaza.
“From the cars on display to the music, food, and exhibitions in our galleries, we’re shining a light on the creativity and pride that define Latin cultures,” said Sarah Ayala, Sundance Square Art Director and Founder of the show. “It’s a chance for Fort Worth to see, feel, and be inspired by a community whose artistry continues to evolve and inspire new generations.”
LIVING LOCAL ART
Join the Neighborhood Litter Stomp
Saturday, October 11, with the City of Fort Worth and Keep Fort Worth Beautiful!
Join the Neighborhood Litter Stomp!
Keep Fort Worth Beautiful (KFWB) is hosting its Neighborhood Litter Stomp on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025. Neighborhood Litter Stomp is KFWB’s second largest annual litter cleanup and beautification event of the year. In 2024, Litter Stomp volunteers removed over 31,300 pounds of litter from our city! This year our goal is to recruit 2,000
volunteers and work together to remove 40,000 pounds of litter.
Register early and get a FREE T-SHIRT!
Help us reach our goal of 2,000 volunteers! Registration is now open, and all volunteers will be provided litter cleanup supplies, including trash bags and gloves. The first 1,000 volunteers to register will receive a free, event t-shirt. Sign up as an individual or a group at one of our pre-selected cleanup
hubs, or choose a public area of your own. Visit the Neighborhood Litter Stomp website www. fortworthtexas.gov/litterstomp to register.
Tire Collection!
As part of this year’s Litter Stomp event, Environmental Services Department will also be accepting scrap tires, to further its efforts to combat illegal dumping. Residents can bring their old and used tires to the East Regional Public Library on Oct. 11 from 8 am until 11 am. Rims
are accepted but must be removed from the tire. Commercial tires will not be accepted. Volunteers that remove scrap tires during the litter cleanup can work with KFWB for collection.
For the latest information about Neighborhood Litter Stomp, visit www.fortworthtexas.gov/ litterstomp. You can also contact Keep Fort Worth Beautiful at (817) 392-2046 or email KFWB@ fortworthtexas.gov.
WEEKLY LISTINGS
Free Will Astrology
By Rob Brezsny
ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19)
VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22)
A supple clarity is crystallizing within you. Congratulations! It’s not a brittle or rigid certainty, but a knack for limber discernment. I predict you will have an extra potent gift for knowing what truly matters, even amidst chaos or complication. As this superpower reaches full ripeness, you can aid the process by clearing out clutter and refining your foundational values. Make these words your magic spells: quintessence, core, crux, gist, lifeblood, root. PS: Be alert for divine messages in seemingly mundane circumstances.
LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22)
Will you work to bring more justice and fairness into the situations you engage with? I imagine you speaking complex and rugged truths with warmth and charm. I see you summoning a generous flair as you help people climb up out of their sadness and suffering. If all goes well, you will magnetize others to participate in shared visions of delight and dignity.
TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20)
Born under the sign of Taurus, Maya Deren first expressed her extravagant creative urges as a writer, poet, photographer, clothes designer, and dancer. But then she made a radical change, embarking on a new path as experimental filmmaker. She said she had “finally found a glove that fits.” Her movies were highly influential among the avant-garde in the 1940s and 1950s. I bring Deren to your attention, Taurus, because I suspect that in the coming months, you, too, will find a glove that fits. And it all starts soon.
GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20)
You’re extra well-suited to navigate liminal zones and transitional states. You may be the only person in your circle who can navigate paradox and speak in riddles and still make sense. It’s not just cleverness. It’s wisdom wrapped in whimsy. So please offer your in-between insights freely. PS: You have another superpower, too: You can activate dormant understandings in both other people’s hearts and your own.
CANCERIAN (Jun 21-Jul 22)
In the western Pacific Ocean, there’s a species of octopus that builds its lair from coconut shells. The creature gathers together husks, dragging them across the seafloor, and fits them together. According to scientists, this use of tools by an invertebrate is unique. Let’s make the coconut octopus your power creature for now, Cancerian. You will have extra power to forge a new sanctuary or renovate an existing one, either metaphorically or literally. You will be wise to draw on what’s nearby and readily available, maybe even using unusual or unexpected building materials.
LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22)
Bridges are forming between once-disconnected parts of your psyche and life. You may not need to do much except consent to the slow emergence of these new semi-amazing expressions of integrity. Be patient and take notes. Intuitions arriving soon may be blueprints for future greatness. Here’s the kicker: You’re not just building for yourself. You’re working on behalf of your soul-kin, too.
The ancient Mesopotamian goddess Inanna was called “the Queen of Heaven.” Her domains were politics, divine law, love, and fertility. She was a powerhouse. One chapter of her mythic story tells of her descent into the underworld. She was stripped of everything—clothes, titles, weapons— before she could be reborn. Why did she do it? Scholars say she was on a quest for greater knowledge and an expansion of her authority. And she was successful! I propose we make her your guide and companion in the coming weeks, Libra. You are at the tail-end of your own descent. The stripping is almost complete. Soon you will feel the first tremors of return—not loud, not triumphant, but sure. I have faith that your adventures will make you stronger and wiser, as Inanna’s did for her.
SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21)
A modest curiosity could lead to a major breakthrough. A passing fancy might ripen into a rich blessing. Seemingly nondescript encounters may evolve into precious connections.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21)
I suspect that life is offering you subtle yet radiant cues leading you to sources you will be glad to connect with. To be fully alert for them, you may need to shift and expand the ways you use your five senses. The universe is in a sense flirting with you, sending you clues through dream-logic and nonrational phenomena. Follow the shimmering glimmers.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19)
At the height of her powers, Egyptian pharaoh Hatshepsut declared, “I have restored what had been ruined. I have raised up what had dissolved.”
You now have a similar gift at your disposal, Capricorn. If you harness it, you will gain an enhanced capacity to unify what has been scattered, to reforge what was broken, and to resurrect neglected dreams. To fulfill this potential, you must believe in your own sovereignty—not as a form of domination, but of devotion. Start with your own world. Make beauty where there was noise. Evoke dignity where there was confusion.
AQUARIUS (Jan 20- Feb 18)
In the high Himalayas, there’s a flower called Saussurea obvallata—the Brahma Kamal. It blooms only at night and for a short time, releasing a scent that legend says can heal grief. This will be your flower of power for the coming weeks, Aquarius. It signifies that a rare and time-sensitive gift will be available, and that you must be alert to gather it in.
PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20)
The human heart beats 100,000 times per day, 35 million times per year, and 2.5 billion times in an average lifetime. It’s the most reliable “machine” ever created, working continuously and mostly without special maintenance for decades. Although you Pisceans aren’t renowned for your stability and
steadiness, I predict that in the coming weeks, you will be as staunch, constant, and secure as a human heart. What do you plan to do with this grace period? What marvels can you accomplish? EXPANDED HOROSCOPES For unabridged versions of the horoscopes above by Rob Brezsny, go to FreeWillAstrology.com.
EMPLOYMENT
Software Developer (Flower Mound, TX) required to Analyze system elements (Software, monitoring, reporting functions and capabilities, integration architecture and processes) with recommendations for appropriate changes according to pre-defined requirements. Develop technology solutions and mapping the business requirements to systems/technical requirements to ensure they are in line with the enterprise architectural plan. Design for producing architectural artifacts and application blueprint in telecom domain. Translate architectures into estimates of hours required to deliver the solution and execution procedure. Create high level and detailed design document as per business and functional requirements with minimum requirements of a Bachelor’s degree with 60 months of related experience in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering (any) or related field (foreign degree equivalent). In this job offer requires an Application Developer, IT Solution Architect, Software Engineer, or related occupation with special skills of SOAP, Rest API, SQL, AWS and may require travel to various unanticipated locations throughout the USA. Please send resumes to Allude Global Technologies LLC, 2201 Spinks Road, Suite 116, Flower Mound, TX 75022. Email: legal@alludeglobal.com
BULLETIN BOARD
ADVERTISE HERE!
Email Stacey@fwweekly.com today.
Are You Road-Trip Ready?
CALL COWTOWN ROVER!
With our handy pick-up and drop-off services, having your car checked out could not be easier. www.CowtownRover.com 3958 Vickery | 817.731.3223
CELEBRATION
Located at 908 Pennsylvania Av (817-335-3222), Celebration Community Church has services on Sundays at 10am. Want to check out a nonjudgmental, inclusive church at home before attending in person? All services can also be viewed on YouTube! (@ CelebrationCommunityChurch130)
EMPLOYMENT
Automotive Engineering Technician wanted in Arlington to analyze, procure & manage domestically & internationally produced alternative fuel conversion technologies for diesel to natural gas, and diesel to hydrogen options. Req. AA degree in Automotive Technology or equiv. Strong understanding of heavyduty diesel & turbine engine tech. propane, natural gas, & hydrogen conversion tech. Strong project mgmt. skills. Travel US & abroad 30% time. Mail resumes to CNG Delivery LLC. 2131 N. Collins Street 433-614, Arlington TX 76011.
EMPLOYMENT
Budget Analyst, Fort Worth, TX: Dev comp mfg. budgs. Min. Reqs: BA’s deg in acctg, BA w/ a mjr in acctg, / a closely rltd fld. 2-yr acctg / budgetary analysis rltd exp. In the renewable nrg mfg. & dist indst as a Budg Analyst, Acctnt / in a rltd occp w/ 1) data analysis & rpt’g usng ERP & Power BI, Tableau, SQL, 2) fin fcst’g, variance analysis, & inv cost analysis, & 3) fin cp & rpt’g thru rsk asmts & scenario analysis. Strong knwl of Python, QuickBooks, SAP, & NetSuite. Advanced xl skills, incldg 3 stmt projection, LBO, NPV/IRR valuation, cap raising, cr analysis/uw, liquidity mgmt. Send resumes: Frank Pan, NGC Transmission Equipment (America), Inc., recruitment@ngcamerica.com. Job ref: 1001.
EMPLOYMENT
Enphase Energy, Inc. in Fort Worth, TX seeks Sr Analysts, Logistics [#8519]: mng globl Distro Cntrs to ensure orders are processed in timely manner & custmr shipping windows are met. Trvl up to 15% of time to other DCs & Contract Mfr sites thruout US may be reqd. Send resume to jobrecruitment@enphaseenergy.com & ref job #.
EMPLOYMENT
Johnson Brothers Corporation, a Southland Company, headquartered in Grapevine, Texas, seeks a Project Manager to work on projects at unanticipated locations thruout U.S., to lead all aspects of construction prjcts from initiation to completion & organize & coordinate prjct resources, contractors, & other stakeholders to ensure timely & successful prjct delivery. Relocation required. Apply online at southlandholdings.com.
EMPLOYMENT
RECARO Aircraft Seating Americas, LLC (Fort Worth, TX) seeks a Quality Engineer II. Responsible for all activities involving quality compliance & adherence with all applicable RECARO, customer & regulatory reqmts. Bachelor’s in Industrial Eng., Mechanical Eng., or Mfg. Eng. or foreign equivalent & 3 yrs of exp. in project mgmt., product & process control methods, & mfg. & production processes. To apply, visit en.jobs.recaro-as. com/ & search for Quality Engineer II under current openings.
HISTORIC RIDGLEA THEATER
THE RIDGLEA is three great venues within one historic Fort Worth landmark. RIDGLEA THEATER has been restored to its authentic allure, recovering unique Spanish-Mediterranean elements. It is ideal for large audiences and special events. RIDGLEA ROOM and RIDGLEA LOUNGE have been making some of their own history, as connected adjuncts to RIDGLEA THEATER, or hosting their own smaller shows and gatherings. More at theRidglea.com
LIFE INSURANCE
Up to $15,000.00 of GUARANTEED Life Insurance! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses.Call Physicians Life Insurance Company- 844-782-2870 or visit www.Life55plus.info/ftworth
NEED A FRIEND?
Ronnie D. Long Bail Bonds
Immediate Jail Release 24 Hour Service. City, County, State and Federal Bonds. Located Minutes from Courts. 6004 Airport Freeway.
817-834-9894 RonnieDLongBailBonds.com
OLSHAN Foundation Solutions Your trusted foundation repair experts since 1933. Foundation repair. Crawl space recovery. Basement waterproofing. Water management and more. Free evaluation. Limited time up to $250 off foundation repair. Call Olshan today at 1-855-824-7345. (MB)
POTTER’S HOUSE
Join the Potter’s House of Fort Worth (1270 Woodhaven Blvd, 817-446-1999) for Sunday Service at 8am and Wednesday Bible Study at 7pm. For more info, visit us online at www.TPHFW.org.
PUBLIC NOTICE
The following vehicle has been impounded with fees due to date by Sega Tow (VSF0576658) at 2711 S Riverside Dr, Fort Worth TX, 76104, 817-572-7775: Chevrolet, 2021, Corvette, VIN 1G1YB2D43M5112234, $1576.95; and Nissan, 2025, Kicks, VIN 3N8AP6CA35L380310, $960.
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