Fort Worth Magazine - December 2022

THE LIFE, CRIMES, AND EXECUTION OF CHARLIE BROOKS

COWTOWN CHRISTMAS: A Fully Illustrated Tale / GOING DEEP: The Armed Forces Bowl Turns 20

12 SPOTS WHERE FOODIES CAN WINE, DINE, AND COMPLETELY GORGE

La Onda Latin-inspired seafood

care when and where you need it most.

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25 ISSUE 12

63 A Fort Worth Christmas Tale

A ride on the Tarantula steam train transforms a young girl whose life changes in an encounter with Santa Claus, who shows her the true joy of Christmas.

BY JOCELYN TATUM

70

Best New Restaurants

Fort Worth has been called a lot of things — Cowtown, Panther City, and Funkytown, among them. Well, add Flavortown to the list after a survey of these best new restaurants.

BY MALCOLM MAYHEW

87 Unforgivable

Forty years ago, Fort Worth native Charles Brooks Jr. became the first man ever to be executed by lethal injection. The story of his crime, his death, and the reporter to whom he admitted his guilt.

BY BRIAN KENDALL

98 Top Attorneys

The pros of the pros. Fort Worth Magazine’s 2022 Top Attorneys, our annual listing of the best lawyers in town, as voted on by their peers.

the fort etc.

: know

14 Buzz

TCU’s football team took over Austin on a Saturday night in November — it was glorious — making everyone trying to ignore them take notice. Even the College Football Playoff committee.

20 Calendar

Places to be and people to see in December include “The Nutcracker,” the Tchaikovsky’s classic holiday treat, performed by the able Texas Ballet Theater.

22 Fort Worthian

DJ Asa Aziz, known professionally as Asa Ace, is on “a journey of the self, trying to avoid being trapped in the rat race.”

: live

26 Books

We asked around about what impactful fiction people have read this year. Ten recommendations from your community.

28 Sports

The Armed Forces Bowl is celebrating 20 years of highadventure, outdoor activities, and badges of honor.

32 Style

Simon Flory — musician, poet, and teacher — gives us a tour of a treasure trove of fascinating and uncommon items — also known as his closet.

36 Art

It was a sudden rise for Tatyana Alanis once Instagram’s vast audience took notice. Six questions with this local talent.

40 Gift Guide

With all due respect to Santa and his hard-working elves, we all know the best gifts for the holiday season are made in Fort Worth.

: eat

48 Four Courses

Four local chefs whip up some scrumptious holiday goodies.

54 Restaurant News

3rd Street Market is a sight for sore eyes, those downtown office-ites who have grown desperate for new options at the lunch hour.

: snaps

171 Fort Worth Magazine and ASID’s Shining Star Awards featured dozens of the city’s best interior designers at Arhaus in Clearfork.

182 Groundbreaking.

192 Gracie and Elmo welcomed their new bundle of joy at the Fort Worth Zoo. This ender will make your heart melt.

CLOSE

DREAM STREET

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Freakin’ Amazing

Earlier today — yeah, it’s press day, it’s chaotic, and I’ve already missed my deadline for this letter — the president of our company, Mike Waldum, swung by my side of the office to show me a Gantt chart he’s been working on to improve operational efficiencies. You know, stuff that people like me suck at. We have an open office atmosphere — something akin to the Washington Post office in “All the President’s Men” only 37 times smaller — and I was hunched over our creative director’s desk. His name is Craig Sylva, by the way. Craig was designing the feature “Unforgiveable” (page 87), and he was asking my opinion on imagery. He was doing what he does every day: manipulating images, text, illustrations, and whatever the heck else you see in the magazine to make it look the way it does — as appealing as any in the nation.

Mike, whose giant animations and genuine enthrallment could serve as a makeshift defibrillator in a pinch, witnessed Craig at work. “Holy! That’s freakin’ amazing! How do you do that!?” His reaction was neither exaggerated nor unfounded because, yeah, what Craig does is freakin’ amazing. While Craig likely deemed what he was doing a simple task — he wasn’t creating fire out of Styrofoam cups and a jug of mouthwash or anything — the skill he possesses, when on full display, is incredibly impressive. So, naturally, I started self-examining; I think I, at times, take the phenomenal talent of our team for granted. Never in my life have I worked with a team of such passionate, talented, and inspiring people — with all due respect to my previous employers.

Brian Kendall EXECUTIVE EDITOR

So, with this little section of the magazine I get to call my own — and too often go on tangents unrelated to the effort of my colleagues — I want to acknowledge our creative and editorial staff who don’t get such a perk. I try their patience enough, so this is the least I can do.

First, Spray Gleaves, art director: The most genuinely creative and eccentric (in the best way possible) person who’s always in the right when confronted with wrong, and whose effective scowl is, more often than not, put to good use.

John Henry, executive editor of Fort Worth, Inc. : Even-tempered, even keeled, and an even better writer than me. My holiday wish is that everyone in this city gets to experience his quick wit at least once in their lives.

Crystal Wise, director of photography: I’d call her the best photographer in the world — and I wouldn’t be lying — but she won’t believe me because she’s so self-effacing. The perfect combination of talent, skill, humility, and empathy. And her family is freaking adorable.

Craig Sylva, creative director: His commitment to excellence is unmatched, and his blunt honesty with me is valued, I suspect, more than he realizes. He’s also a really great dad, which, in my book, is the best compliment anyone can ever give.

Appreciate one another, y’all. Wishing everyone a happy holiday and a safe New Year.

ON THE COVER:

A plate of oysters from La Onda, a Latin seafood joint off Race Street, photographed by Crystal Wise for our Best New Restaurants feature. Crystal visited and photographed all 12 restaurants featured in our cover story, which you can read on page 70.

Corrections? Comments? Concerns? Send to executive editor Brian Kendall at bkendall@fwtexas. com.

NEXT MONTH

The Beauty and the History of Escaramuza

Ghosts of the Baker Hotel

Texas Rangers (not the baseball team) Bicentennial

Let’s Chat

A

few

words from our readers

So because of the Central Market by Heights and Tom Thumb/Albertsons and Kroger stores in Fort Worth, they can’t put an HEB in the original Fort Worth areas? TCU? Downtown? What is happening there? Craig Brolin

At least it is now a reasonable drive to get the products they irrationally shifted from Central Market to H-E-B. Graskaas cheese, Rat Trap cheese, etc. Jennifer Shafer

owner/publisher

EDITORIAL

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ART creative

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The best cities are when the coffee shops and some of the bars and restaurants are run by liberals while the city hall, police, and DA office are run by conservatives. We got a good thing going here. Let’s keep it that way and get along.

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DIGITAL EDITION: The virtual editions of both current and previous issues are available on our website. Flip through the pages to read more about the great city of Fort Worth by visiting fwtx.com.

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Lickety, Lickety, TCU

Horned Frogs’ flirtation with college football’s elite turns serious in October

BY JOHN HENRY

Only the band’s march down Sixth Street blasting its rendition of Mexican folklore’s “La Cucaracha” would have made No. 4 TCU’s takeover of the 40 Acres more fulsome.

Not that it wasn’t as splendid in every way as it was, this victory over Texas, the state’s flagship public university, that wasn’t nearly as close as a 17-10 score would suggest.

The Horned Frogs have checked off one of the season’s big goals: a place in the Big 12 championship game. And with it, though they won’t say it, they have likely checked off another, which is to tell the prognosticators where they can stick their preseason predictions.

The smartest guys in the room picked the Frogs to finished seventh in the Big 12.

However, all that being done, there are even bigger things to attend to now. TCU’s flirtation with a first national championship since 1938 got very serious, Facebook complicated even, after a suplex takedown of the Longhorns on a chilly fall Saturday night in November.

The victory by the “cockroaches,” the moniker the Frogs

have worn with honor since a miffed Texas coach Darrell Royal so named them after spoiling the Longhorns’ national championship hopes in 1961, made everyone trying to ignore them take notice.

Even the College Football Playoff Committee.

The body of rainmakers, which decides the four schools that will vie for the national championship, was slow to recognize — or perhaps reluctant to acknowledge — the Horned Frogs’ ascent up college football’s Mount Sinai under first-year coach Sonny Dykes.

Triumph over the Longhorns on their turf — and on that stage in front of more than 100,000 orange people — with its brand, its history, its gold and PUF fund, not to mention our old coach in service to the enemy, represented the signature victory of the 10 up to that point in the season.

But, to date, the Frogs’ five victories over ranked opponents in 2022 equaled the combined total of the other three undefeated teams, Georgia (2), Ohio State (2), and Michigan (1), all ranked ahead of TCU.

Those three are all college football bluebloods with the coveted national followings the networks have a messianic adoration for.

It’s why many are skeptical that the Frogs, the smallest of the top six ranked schools, ultimately will receive a fair hearing before the CFP board.

Money, money, money in the form of bodies — that is, big enrollments, even bigger alumni bases, and a national base of fans — in front of flat screens is what moves the needle, not a résumé of merit. At least that’s what the cynics say.

And it’s difficult not to be a cynic after what happened in 2014, the inaugural season of the CFP. The one-loss Horned Frogs were ranked No. 3 in the penultimate ranking only to fall out of the top four altogether, to No. 6, in the final poll, despite a 55-3 victory over Iowa State.

It was a whiskey-tango-foxtrot moment.

Despite it all this year, the Frogs, just like before the season started, are still underdogs. Critics of this TCU team cite a habit to fall behind early in games only to fight back, sometimes from double-digit deficits, to come back and win.

A squeaker in West Virginia raised eyebrows, but as Dykes noted, those same Mountaineers beat Baylor and Oklahoma on that same field.

Conventional wisdom is TCU will have to win out in

order to achieve a place among the final four. One loss will leave them outside looking in. As of this writing, a game with bitter rival Baylor looms, at its place under the toilet seat, before a regular-season finale at home against Iowa State, and the conference championship game at AT&T Stadium against a team to be decided.

“The thing with us, it’s like anything else, you’ve just got to figure out how to win,” Dykes said. “If you can win, I truly believe the rest of the stuff will take care of itself. If you lose a game, then all of the sudden there’s a conversation about all these different things [that need to happen to get in the playoff]. You want to try to avoid that if you can.

“You just got to do everything you can to make sure something like that doesn’t happen to you again [like 2014]. If you win your games, it puts you in a good spot.”

As for the players, a team led offensively by a triumvirate of star performers Max Duggan at quarterback, running back Kendre Miller, and wide receiver Quentin Johnson, they seem to be unaffected by the critics or the prospects suddenly in front of them.

This team has been so good and defied adversity because it’s grounded, starting with Duggan, a senior who epitomizes the maturity and grit of this team.

“We were picked seventh, so obviously people didn’t think we were going to be very good,” Dykes said. “For us it’s always been, let’s do the best we can, play hard for each other, and when it’s all said and done, let’s add it up and figure it out at the end. Most years it’s hard to do.

“Typically, most teams start talking about bowl games rankings, talking about if this happens and that happens. I have never heard that one time with any players on our team. Never heard them talk about the conference championship or rankings. I think our guys really like to play football. The other stuff, I think, they see as a byproduct of football. That’s what makes this team fun to be around and be a part of.”

Get Moving

City tells miniature train operator to get caboose in gear.

BY JOHN HENRY

The city of Fort Worth has put the operator of the venerable Forest Park miniature train on notice to get its caboose in gear.

City officials have notified Forest Park Rides Inc. that it is in default of its contract with the city. The contract allows 60 days to address contractual breaches. If Forest Park Rides, based in Haltom City, doesn’t return the “beloved amenity of the city,” as Council member Elizabeth Beck described it, to operational, the city can terminate the contract immediately.

The train, on the tracks since 1958, hasn’t been operational since March because of equipment issues, according to the city.

“It’s our sincere hope that the contractor will return the attraction to operating status soon so Fort Worth residents and guests can enjoy the miniature train ride once again,” said Dave Lewis, interim director of the Park & Recreation Department.”

It is indeed a Fort Worth cultural icon, brought to us originally by Bill Hames, the carny who made a career as a showman and ran the concessions and carnival portion of the Fort Worth Zoo for years.

The route today is the same as it was 64 years ago, a 5-mile roundtrip that begins near the Fort Worth Zoo, crosses the Trinity River, and enters Trinity Park. It turns around near the Lancaster Bridge and returns to its starting point.

The current contract was signed in 2006, an agreement of 10 years with two five-year renewal periods by “mutual consent.” The second renewal was made in Nov. 1, 2021, and expires on Oct. 31, 2016.

According to the officials, the contract calls for the city to take in 15% of gross receipts up to $150,000, and 20% of gross receipts of anything over $150,000 to $350,000. If the train does better than $350,000, the city would make 25%.

The train hasn’t done anywhere near that in recent years. The pandemic and its associated shutdown quashed business the two previous years.

The city also makes 15% of gross receipts from the concession and souvenir stand.

The city owns the property on which the train runs but doesn’t own the tracks or bridge.

“We don’t know how big a deal it is to get running in 60 days,” said Lewis, the parks director, during a briefing to the City Council on Tuesday. “We’re not aware of any major things that will keep it running in 60 days.”

If in 60 days, Forest Park Rides remains in default, another conversation will have to take place if the city wants to take the step of terminating the contract. Part of the conversation would follow of what will the train look like if the city does terminate.

All harrowing thoughts for longtimers who grew up on that thing.

» Love Connection

For eight days in October the women’s top professional tennis tour brought its brand of elite to Fort Worth’s Dickies Arena.

The WTA Finals concluded its season-ending tournament on a Monday, crowning No. 6-seed Caroline Garcia of France as its champion after a straight-sets 7-6 (7-4), 6-4 victory over No. 7 Aryna Sabalenka in front of an enthused and engaged crowd of roughly 6,000 which had clearly found a love connection with the tennis tournament after a slow first few days.

“Today’s atmosphere was pretty amazing,” Garcia said of the setting in Fort Worth. “The fans really enjoyed the show. They love tennis. Right from the beginning, they were into it.”

Fort Worth and Dickies Arena scored the tournament on short notice, which hampered efforts to promote it.

It’s possible it will come back next year.

The WTA’s preference is the fulfillment of a contract with Shenzhen, China. The reason: money. The reason it hasn’t worked out: a “zero-COVID” policy and human rights concerns surrounding the case of Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai.

However, the only time the tournament was held in Shenzhen, in 2019, the WTA Finals offered $14 million in prize money, all of it raised by Shenzhen. Last year in Guadalajara and this year in Fort Worth, the prize money was $5 million, all put up by the WTA.

The one-year, temporary sites are “unsustainable,” the WTA has said.

“They were really happy with their experience overall all things considered with six weeks to do it. They were appreciative with what we were able to accomplish together,” said Jason Sands, executive director of the Fort Worth Sports Commission.

Sands added that the WTA loved both the city and Dickies Arena. “Blown away” was the term Sands used to describe how the WTA felt about Dickies.

Sporting events in Fort Worth have been an enhancer to the local economy. Sands said in the fiscal year ended in October sporting events had a $110 million economic impact. That number five years ago was closer to $50 million.

“Coming out of COVID, it’s just been an unbelievable run we’ve been on,” Sands said.

Sabalenka, a Belarusian who became visibly annoyed by how her match played out, slammed her racket in the floor twice as her final groundstroke, a forehand, went long to the end the match. Garcia collapsed in triumph. Despite her moment of raw human emotion, Sabalenka, who knocked off the world’s No. 1 player, Iga Swiatek, in the semifinals, was gracious in defeat.

The tournament had a definite Fort Worth flavor. Each of the finalists in both matches received cowboy hats, who, unlike a certain president who will remain nameless, enthusiastically donned them. Also, the runners-up trophies were designed and manufactured by Fort Worth’s SiNaCa Studios.

10Things to Know This Month

1

TCU honored one of its own — and one of the city’s favorite sons — with a statue unveiling of James Cash, a pioneer who in 1966 became the first Black basketball player in the Southwest Conference. His trailblazing merely started here. In 1985, he was named Harvard’s first Black tenured professor.

2

The nationally acclaimed Fort Worth Zoo in November announced the birth of a new baby gorilla to parents Gracie and Elmo, marking only the second birth of a western lowland gorilla at the zoo. And, yes, we’re in love. To see the little guy, go to page 192.

3

Tarrant County stayed rosy red in the midterms, with Tim O’Hare defeating Deborah Peoples to become the next county judge, succeeding Republican Glen Whitley. Republican Phil Sorrells was elected district attorney.

4

The Fort Worth Zoo marked 30 years under the Fort Worth Zoological Association, the highly-successful public-private partnership that transformed the zoo into one of the nation’s most valued animal conservatories.

5

Workers placed Fort Worth’s community Christmas tree in its usual spot for the holidays. Local Fort Worth artists painted large beach-ball size ornaments to adorn its hearty branches.

6

By 5-4, the Fort Worth City Council voted down a proposed police advisory board, rejecting a key recommendation by its Race and Culture Task Force. Opponents cited concerns about the necessity of the board and its makeup.

7

The Fort Worth Stockyards Music Festival is a thing. Coming in March will be something akin to Austin’s SXSW acting as a platform for up-and-coming Texasbased musicians.

8

Tarrant County scored big with separate announcements of coming sports events. USA Taekwondo chose Fort Worth to host its 2024 U.S. National Championships on July 2-4 at the Fort Worth Convention Center. Meanwhile, Major League Baseball tapped Globe Life Field in Arlington at the site of the 2024 All-Star Game.

9

Tis the season for corny Christmas classics. Make sure to try to catch one at Rooftop Cinema Club at 235 Throckmorton St.

10

In November, we said goodbye to W.R. “Bob” Watt Jr., who for 33 years served as president and general manager of the Fort Worth Stock Show. In that role, Watt was pivotal in transforming the Will Rogers Memorial Center, ushering in the largest expansion of the complex since its opening in 1936 through publicprivate projects. Requiescat in pace.

*Please visit each event’s website for information on COVID-19 protocols.

DEC. 1

Winter Menu Tasting

Wanna be first in line to try Taste Community’s new seasonal dishes? It’s as easy as purchasing tickets at its website for this Dec. 1 event.

Taste Community Restaurant

1200 S. Main St. tasteproject.org

DEC. 3

Clearfork Holiday Market

Clearfork will have a special farmers market from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. that will include over 50 local merchants, farmers, and artisan vendors.

The Shops at Clearfork 5188 Monahans Ave.

DEC. 6

Techstars

Physical Health Demo Day

Check out three physical health startup companies pitch their products to an audience at the Isis Theater. It’s a Cowtown version of Shark Tank. Downtown Cowtown at the Isis 2401 N. Main St. techstars.com

DEC. 8 – JAN. 8

“Handle With Care”

A heartfelt romantic comedy about an Israeli woman stranded in a motel room with an oddball deliveryman on Christmas Eve. Sure to delight all theatergoers.

Stage West

821 W. Vickery Blvd. stagewest.org

DEC. 10

Run & Brunch

Do you need something to motivate you to run? How about a nice big brunch at the end of said run? Well, that’s exactly what you’ll get, your fill of mimosas from HG Supply Co., when you attend this earlymorning event.

HG Supply Co. 1621 River Run, Ste. 176 hgsplyco.com

DEC. 10

Simmons Bank Showdown: TCU vs. SMU and UTA vs. TXST

A basketball doubleheader that will pit our Horned Frogs against the Mustangs of that city east of here. UTA’s Mavericks will also square off against the Texas State Bobcats.

Dickies Arena 1911 Montgomery St. dickiesarena.com

DEC. 14 – 17

WCRA Christmas Cowtown Championship Rodeo

The World Championship Rodeo Alliance will hold the final leg of its triple crown of rodeo through four days at the Cowtown Coliseum. Events include steer wrestling, roping, barrel racing, and, of course, bull riding.

Cowtown Coliseum

121 E. Exchange Ave. cowtowncoliseum.com

DEC. 9

Panther City Lacrosse Opener

Fort Worth’s only professional sports team kicks off its second season when it faces off against the Las Vegas Desert Dogs at Dickies Arena.

Dickies Arena

1911 Montgomery St. panthercitylax.com

Simmons Bank Showdown - Dec. 10

“Handle With Care” Dec. 8 – Jan. 8

DEC. 30

Toadies w/Flickerstick

Two of Fort Worth’s most iconic rock bands share the stage at Fort Worth’s most iconic venue, Billy Bob’s Texas. No, we cannot think of a better way to spend the penultimate night of the year.

Billy Bob’s Texas 2520 Rodeo Plaza | billybobstexas.com

DEC. 16 – 18

Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra: Star Wars: A New Hope

The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra brings the far, far away galaxy to Will Rogers Auditorium with a performance of John Williams’ popular and acclaimed score.

Will Rogers Auditorium 3401 West Lancaster Ave. fwsymphony.org

DEC. 23

Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland

Acrobats defy gravity in this holiday-themed circus that’s making the rounds across the states. It’s one night only, so be sure to put it on the calendar.

Dickies Arena

1911 Montgomery St. cirquemusica.com

DEC. 22

Armed Forces Bowl

While the teams facing off at this year’s bowl won’t be announced until Dec. 4, if the previous 19 years are any indication, the 20th installment of this classic game will not disappoint.

Amon G. Carter Stadium 2850 Stadium Drive armedforcesbowl.com

DEC. 31

Zoo Year’s Eve

Want a kid-free night out on the town this New Year’s Eve? Drop the kiddos off at the zoo, where your kids can enjoy a movie, crafts, and a night hike through the park and a continental breakfast.

Fort Worth Zoo 1989 Colonial Parkway fortworthzoo.org

DEC. 31

ABBA the Concert

The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra rings in the new year with a concert devoted to the Swedish pop stars. Whether the violinists will be wearing white bellbottoms and platform shoes, we don’t know.

Bass Performance Hall 525 Commerce St. basshall.com

DEC. 11 – 24

The Texas Ballet Theater will perform mesmerizing numbers to Tchaikovsky’s classic score that’s become a holiday staple.

Bass Performance Hall 525 Commerce St. basshall.com

Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland - Dec. 23

Asa Ace

DJ, Sound Healer, and World Traveler

BY HANNAH BARRICKS

PHOTO BY CRYSTAL

WISE

She’s a slight woman with a pair of headphones draped over her right shoulder as she switches the song in her set from one by The Weeknd to “Polly” by Nirvana, a steady house beat in the background strings the two pieces together.

She moves the headphones up to her ears as Kurt Cobain asks, “Polly want a cracker?”

DJ Asa Aziz, known professionally as Asa Ace, performs for the Amon Carter Museum during its College Night. Later in the evening, she will perform at Curfew Bar. Aziz loves the night scene but still performs for venues like the museum to keep herself open, continuing to follow what feels good for her and not necessarily what will get her ahead.

“I’m a person on a journey of the self, trying to avoid being trapped in the usual or the rat race,” the 32-yearold says.

Asa gets the freedom she craves in her DJ residency at Hotel Dryce, where the setup is comfortable. But Aziz knows she has to be adaptable, a skill she learned by moving to Fort Worth 16 years ago as a rebellious teen. “I could have gotten into trouble coming here as a teen and not wanting to be here,” Aziz reminisces. “I had a choice to make my life, good or bad.”

Instead of crumbling under her disdain and teen angst, Asa started infusing Fort Worth with what she thought was missing; she focused on a cultural purpose and ways she could add value.

Her lemonade-from-lemons reflex also comes from traveling, the pursuit that broadens one’s perspective of things that, according to Twain, “cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.”

“My grandpa was part of the Nation of Islam,” she says, “so his job was to educate people on the religion, and I grew up going to Ghana a lot.”

Traveling exposed Asa to people’s everyday struggles and gave her appreciation and direction. Asa worked hard and eventually became a respiratory therapist, but a bad breakup and COVID soured the profession for her. She found herself looking for a hobby to escape.

“I was drawn to the craft of DJing and how they moved the crowd,” says Aziz. The hobby stuck, and Aziz found a new purpose. “DJing put me in a position to meet so many people that I wouldn’t have known, and I found a family [in this industry].”

Aziz now travels the world, but Fort Worth is still home. “I’ve spent my entire adult life here, so it’s a huge part of my growth,” she says. “And it’s easy to grow here. Everything you need is here. I found my career and was able to buy a house. It was all meant to happen.”

DJing is Asa’s full-time job, but she’s also a sound healer — the use of music, tones, and other sonic vibrations to balance and heal the body, mind, and spirit — and her newest baby is a creative project called Love Is Real. Partnering with her sister, Nia, the two connect local creatives to the community through workshops. The sisters held their most recent workshop in May at Blanc Cowork Studio. Aziz wants to develop these workshops and take them on the road, hopefully internationally.

“Fort Worth’s culture is like slowly riding horseback on your way to a party,” laughs Aziz, and while she still might be learning to slow her stride, wherever she is, it’s definitely a party.

1. Providing sound healing during a session. 2. After DJing for the children from Rise Community Center. 3. In Ghana, a home away from home for Aziz, who grew up traveling there with her family. 4. With her cousin Kofi attending a sound healing event. 5. Chasing rainbows the same way she chases her dreams. 6. In Malibu, finding creativity in her journeys. 7. A selfie at the airport before takeoff.

merry

THANK YOU FOR ANOTHER GREAT YEAR. HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU AND YOURS AND CHEERS TO THE NEW YEAR.

Envision simple moments.

You won’t believe what’s possible with Realtors ® like us.

Reading List

Crowdsourcing to find some of the year’s best reads.

BY TINA HOWARD

In a world full of headlines and tweets, we need to carve out time to delve more deeply into written words to inform our thinking and process our perspective. According to a scientific research study out of Boston College, reading fiction has the proven capacity to make readers more open-minded and empathetic. Reading a book requires us to sit and engage with the material far longer than most other art forms, so we have time to internalize ideas and find ways to connect with other viewpoints. As you head into the holiday season, find ways to create a moment of pause and read — together as a family, in a stolen moment in a closet avoiding family, or during time off.

We asked some of our community what they read this year that impacted them, and we’d love to offer you 10 of their suggestions as a starting point.

Bomb Shelter: Time, Love, and Other Explosives by Mary Laura Philpott

A collection of personal essays that span parenting, love, safety, and turtles.

Songbirds by Christy Lefteri

Inspired by the reallife disappearance of domestic workers in Cyprus, a poignant view into the human stories behind the headlines and the fight for truth and justice.

The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams

A chance encounter with a list of library books helps to forge an unlikely friendship

Dear Luke, We Need to Talk, Darth by John Moe

A laugh-out-loud collection of the lost notes and imagined letters between your favorite pop culture icons that they never wanted you to see.

Ghosts: A Novel by Dolly Alderton

Nina Dean is living her best life, and then the seemly impossible happens: She meets a great guy on a first date. But then he ghosts her, and she is forced to deal all the things she’s been trying to avoid.

Nettle and Bone by T. Kingfisher

This isn’t the kind of fairytale where the princess marries a prince. It’s the one where she kills him.

How to Stop Time by Matt Haig

A love story across the ages about a man lost in time, the woman who could save him, and the lifetimes it can take to learn how to live.

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Five unforgettable characters walk through Biafra’s impassioned struggle to establish an independent republic in Southeastern Nigeria.

Fresh Water for Flowers by Valerie Perrin

A tender story of the cemetery caretaker in a small French town whose routine is disrupted by the arrival of a police chief who insists on scattering the ashes of his recently deceased mother on the gravesite of a complete stranger.

Count the Ways by Joyce Maynard

A compassionate novel of home, parenthood, family, and forgiveness, following a fractured family of five who must confront the painful truths of their past and find redemption in the darkest of hours.

Tina Howard, along with her husband, Todd, is the owner of Leaves Book and Tea Shop on St. Louis Avenue in the Near Southside.

Military Engagement

The Armed Forces Bowl celebrates 20 years of high-adventure, outdoor activities and badges of honor.

BY JOHN HENRY

In the early aughts, civic leaders, with binoculars in hand, surveyed the college football bowl landscape and asked, “Why not us?”

The city also had history and events on its side, what with a former Heisman Trophy winner (Davey O’Brien), a national championship (TCU, 1938) in a trophy case, and a major postseason award, the O’Brien Award, presented to the country’s top quarterback.

“I think we’ve shown that Fort Worth can host a bowl game,” said Jeff Salmon, then the director of tourism and sports marketing with

the Fort Worth Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We’d like to see a network TV game that would really capture the spirit of the West, of Texas football, and Fort Worth.”

Those in college football with the power, authority, and prominence — that is, ESPN — agreed. The Fort Worth Bowl found itself on the schedule among the family of college football’s postseason.

The Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, as it has been known since 2005, this year will celebrate its 20th birthday with the game scheduled for Dec. 22 at TCU’s Amon G. Carter Stadium.

The game has meant exposure for the city and schools alike.

Missouri last year represented the 23rd different school to play in the bowl game. Houston and Air Force have the most appearances, five, and Conference USA has had the most schools represented, 12.

There are no current conference tie-ins for the game, but the military academies are a priority when they’re available.

Today, the game doubles as a festival of football and of ceremony honoring the bold and brave of the U.S. armed forces, which, of course, enjoys a proud history in Fort Worth.

The cadets at West Point are undefeated in four games at the Armed Forces Bowl, including last year’s 24-22 victory, claimed on kicker Cole Talley’s 41-yard field goal as time expired.

Apropos, wethinks. Maj. Ripley Arnold unquestionably — OK, presumably — smiling about that in the great beyond.

The bowl is the first to host all three military academy football teams. The

Army is undefeated in four games at the Armed Forces Bowl, including a victory over San Diego State’s Aztecs in 2017.

game has featured an academy team 11 times in the past 15 years.

The West Pointers aren’t an option this year with a tie-in to the Independence Bowl. The Midshipmen from Annapolis have too few wins and are unlikely to reach bowl eligibility.

However, there is Air Force. We’ll see, but it’s safe to say that for its 20th anniversary, bowl execs would love to have the Falcons at the Carter in December for an Armed Forces Bowlleading sixth game in Fort Worth.

HERE ARE SOME MEMORABLE MOMENTS ABOUT THE GAMES.

GAME MVPS

2003 QB Ryan Dinwiddle, Boise State

2004 QB Gino Guidugli, Cincinnati

2005 QB Jason Swanson, Kansas

2006 P/PK Louis Sakoda, Utah

2007 QB Kevin Riley, California

2008 RB Bryce Beall, Houston

2009 RB Asher Clark, Air Force

2010 LB Stephen Anderson, Army

2011 WR Cody Hoffman, BYU

2012 WR Jordan Taylor, Rice

2013 QB Keenan Reynolds, Navy

2014 RB Kenneth Farrow, Houston

2015 QB Jared Goff, California

2016 WR Trent Taylor, Louisiana Tech

5

2007: Cal storms back from 21 down The team from Berkeley came back from 21-0 down to defeat Air Force, 42-36, with 40,905 in attendance. Former Arlington Grace Prep standout Justin Forsett rushed for a then-Armed Forces Bowl record of 187 yards and two touchdowns for Cal, which used a combined 11 catches for 229 yards from wide receivers Robert Jordan and future NFL star DeSean Jackson to mount a comeback.

“We fired every piece of ammunition we had and didn’t have anything left in the arsenal,” said Air Force coach Troy Calhoun, fighting back tears. “At our place, the way you have a chance to be competitive is with big hearts. These guys have been phenomenal.”

4

2017: Army — forward, march Army visited its former outpost on the Trinity and walked away in triumph the West Point way: Forward, march. The Black Knights swallowed up huge swaths of Amon G. Carter Stadium in the Armed Forces Bowl with its patented boots-onthe-ground rushing attack: 440 yards on an all-time

bowl-tying 87 attempts in a 42-35 victory over San Diego State in front of 35,986. Army running back Darnell Woolfolk rushed for two touchdowns, the last a game-tying score with 18 seconds left, and Kell Walker added the game-winning 2-point run.

3

2016: Louisiana Tech kicker boots Navy The highest-scoring game in Armed Forces Bowl history ended with Louisiana Tech kicker Jonathan Barnes booting a game-ending 32yard field goal to send the Bulldogs past Navy 48-45 in front of a crowd of 40,542.

Trent Taylor set receiving records with 12 catches for 233 yards for Louisiana Tech, whose quarterback, Ryan Higgins, passed for 409 yards and four TDs.

2

2011: BYU gamesmanship the difference BYU quarterback Riley Nelson’s sleight of hand and adroit passing in the final seconds gave the Cougars the edge in a 24-21 victory.

With BYU down four in the final seconds and the ball on the 2-yard line, Nelson faked a spike, which Tulsa

2017 QB Ahmad Bradshaw, Army

2018 QB Kelvin Hopkins Jr., Army

2019 QB Justin McMillan, Tulane

2020 WR/KR Lideatrick Griffin, Mississippi State

2021 LB Arik Smith, Army

OVERHEARD

“All last week when we were back in [Cincinnati] practicing, it was snowing, so I guess that pretty much prepared us for [Thursday]. I just wanted my hands warm. I didn’t care if anything else was cold.” — Cincinnati receiver Hannibal Thomas, after the coldest game, a real-feel temperature of 17

defenders expected and that would have stopped the clock, and hit wide receiver Cody Hoffman on the right side of the end zone with 11 seconds left.

“We had a signal for it,” said Nelson, who audibled to the play, red alert, after the BYU coaches called for a spike to stop the clock. “We hadn’t practiced it for a few months, but we had it in our bag of tricks.”

1

2015: Big deficit no problem for Houston Houston scored 29 points in the fourth quarter to overcome a 25-point deficit and defeat Pittsburgh 35-34.

“Holy cow,” said Houston interim coach David Gibbs of the comeback, the largest ever in a bowl game that did not go to overtime.

Down 34-20 with 3:41 left, Houston recovered back-toback onside kicks that led to their final two scores. Cougars running back Kenneth Farrow, from Hurst L.D. Bell, recovered the second one.

“We had to get it, man, we had to get it,” said Farrow.

“We knew it wasn’t over until it was over. We just kept grinding it out. We got it, man. It was just hard work.”

degrees caused pipes to freeze in the press box. Cincinnati beat Marshall 32-14 in 2004. Jack Frost was MVP.

“It’s dumb. The root of it’s dumb, no matter what the root of it is. The root of it’s dumb, and the continuation of it’s dumb. I would have that solidly in the category of dumb. Now where the dumb started, I’m not entirely sure.” — Mississippi State coach Mike Leach of the postgame brawl that erupted after his team’s 24-21 victory over Tulsa in 2020

Quarterback Greg Ward Jr. led Houston back from a 29-point deficit in 2015.

Attorneys shown:

row) Ty Stimpson, Courtney Hanson, Greg McCarthy, Travis Patterson, Chris Mazzola, Travis Heller, Kolter Jennings, (front row) Mike Patterson, Anna Patterson, Tennessee Walker

Closet Raid: Simon Flory

The musician, poet, and teacher gives us a tour of a treasure trove of fascinating and uncommon items — commonly referred to as his closet.

BY BRIAN KENDALL PHOTOS BY CRYSTAL WISE

It’s not every man who can chat for over an hour about fashion and preferred garments, but Simon Flory hits that mark with ease. Some people, whether it’s a brain thing, genetic thing, or learned thing, care deeply and passionately about their aesthetic. There’s a desire among these folks to stand out from the crowd, buck tradition, and express themselves with their duds. Simon’s been this way since he was a kid. Raised in a farming family, Simon grew up with cloth diapers and handmade outfits. Fast fashion just wasn’t a

thing, so highest of the high quality was the norm for him.

“If I wanted a certain type shirt or a certain pair of pants, I would just go find the pattern, pick out the fabric, and I would build my own outfits.” His style has admittedly changed over the years. It’s zigged and zagged — usually depending on what the trend was (if it was zigging, then Simon was zagging). But, he landed on his current hiptrucker-meets-modern-day-rancher look for a reason that’s relatively pragmatic: It’s just what made him feel comfortable

Simon’s Honey Holes

Henderson Street Bazaar, 1000

N.Henderson St.

Honeysuckle Rose Vintage, 5113

White Settlement Road

Doc’s Records, 2628

Weisenberger St.

Any shop on the road while he’s touring

Hat: Vintage Peters Brothers “Shady Oak” refurbished by Capital Hatters

Neckerchief: Made by Tiny’s Western Wear

T-shirt: For Gas

Pants: Dickies

Belt: Schaefer Outfitters

Boots: Lucchese vintage “1883”

Banjo: Bart Reiter

Hat: Vintage Resistol “Fort Worth Crease” Suit jacket: Custom Franklin and Anthony Shirt: Passementrie

Pants: Imogene and Willie

Boots: Fenoglio Boot Company

Hat: His papa’s vintage Resistol hat

Simon’s Style Tips:

1.Just be comfortable with who you are. “And this has changed for me.”

2.Support local clothing companies and vintage stores. “I’m wearing Dickies from three different decades right now.”

3.Avoid fast fashion. “It’s creating one of the worst ecological disasters we have.”

4.Get your size right. “If it doesn’t fit, it just doesn’t work.”

5.Take good care of your clothing. “Remember, you’re not consuming vintage, you’re a caretaker. You’re just one little spot in the lifespan of this vintage clothing.”

Watch: Vintage Rolex

Shoes: Stubbs & Wooten

Vintage

Boots: Leddy’s Vaquero boots

Jeans: Imogene and Willie

Jacket: Vintage Wrangler jean jacket

Guitar Strap: Souldier custom guitar strap

Bolo: Homemade arrowhead bolo by Simon’s grandpa Robert Beahm (found while plowing a field behind his horse “Big Jim” in Virginia, 1925)

Hat: Vintage Resistol “Fort Worth Crease”

Shirt: Vintage “Triple LLL Brand” pearl snap

Guitar: Vintage Yamaha red label guitar

Sweatshirt:

Aledo Bearcat sweatshirt

Take 6: Tatyana Alanis

A chat with a local artist.

BY SHASTA HAUBRICH

It was a quick rise for 28-year-old Tatyana Alanis once she started posting her artwork on Instagram. You know, it’s as if all it took was for people to see it. Since her first post at the end of 2021, she’s gained over 19,000 followers.

Her use of color and texture with a nod to the past gives her illustrations an effortlessly cool and modern feel. In her work, she covers a variety of subjects: music legends, stylish crowds, and classic buildings. It wouldn’t be far fetched for one to assume her scenes were taken from lives of New Yorkers or Parisians, but they are actually taken from people in Fort Worth. We sat down with Alanis for a chat to learn more about what inspires her art and what other Fort Worth artists people should keep tabs on via Instagram.

How did you get started making art? I started drawing when I was a kid. I had kind of like a tablet before a tablet. It was like an Etch A Sketch except you don’t shake it. You would draw on it, and then you would slide it to erase it. I took it with me everywhere. I think I was probably like 2 years old, maybe even younger. As I got older, I started doing art competitions in elementary school, and I would always win. I’ve always just been really interested in art, and as I’ve gotten older, it’s been something to really help me with anxiety and also just the day-to-day dealing with life and growing up. I really use it to calm down and as an outlet for life.

How would you describe your art?

I feel like whenever I look at it, it always looks like it’s like a memory of something. It’s very nostalgic. I like to draw personal scenes, because that’s what I pay attention to. I was an only child, and I grew up around my mother, great-grandmother, and my family, like my great-aunts, my great-uncles. So, I was never around other kids. I think I spent a lot of time watching how people interact with other people, and I like to see small intimate moments that people have with each other that defines their relationship.

Your pieces involve a lot of street scenes and sometimes a piece of clothing or a view of a building. What influences those pieces? That has to do with solitude. I’m always watching how people are since I live in Fort Worth and I primarily work from home, so whenever I’m out, it’s like I’m out for the first time. I really look at these people and what they are wearing, because I’m in sweats all the time, so if I see people dressed to the nines I think, Where are they going? Is this just an everyday thing? I’ve always been really interested in shots like that.

“Cozy Days at Home.”

My mom was really into fashion when I was a kid, so I think that I’ve always seen it as a form of self-expression. I think it’s a cool way for all genders to express themselves through clothes. Since I grew up with only my mom, depending on her mood, it would influence what she would wear. So that’s also how I like to express how I’m feeling by how I dress a person in the illustration. Like, if I’m feeling a little bit pissed off today, she’s going to be in a T-shirt and some jeans. It’s subtle, but to me, that’s what it means

When I draw buildings, they’re mostly cool spots here in Fort Worth. I’ll take a mental photo and a real photo so I can remember and draw it later. There are a lot of spots that have a nice, classic look to it — like the old post office over by South Main. That’s one of my favorite places ever to look at or the inside of the T&P Station. It’s stunning in there.

What would be your dream art project?

I’ve always wanted to learn animation and have my own cartoon about what it was like to grow up with my mom. She had me when she was 17, so we’re very close; so I think that I would like to see it portrayed on tv. Whenever I tell people, they’re all really sad, but I never viewed it that way. I always viewed it as being very cool, and I got to hang out with this really cool girl, and the cool girl was my mom. So, I never viewed it that way. To be able to make my own cartoon would be some kudos to my mom for being so awesome. I think she’s a great mom, but I would like for everyone to know.

Who are some local artists you think people should follow?

Sarah Ayala, I think she’s awesome. There’s an artist in Dallas that makes really cool, geometrically perfect paintings. Her Instagram is Made x Mom (@madexmom). She’s also

really, really nice. Charles Gray — I think his style of art is something I would never, ever be able to do, but when he paints, it looks so beautiful.

Do you have any advice for future artists?

That little voice in your head that says, “Don’t do it” or “Who do you think you are?” — try not to listen to it. Even if you feel that it’s a thousand percent right, at least give it a go, because in the grand scheme of all things, you tried something, and it either worked or it didn’t, and that’s not the end of the world. That’s how I like to look at it. Within my life, I’ve gone through a lot of wild things. Now I am at the point where I’m kind of like, “Let’s do it.” I don’t even care if it works or if it doesn’t work. At least I tried, and at least I tried my best, so give it your all and just give it a try. Why not?

“Call me by your Name.”

“Busy Street”

“Happy Lunar New Year.”

Fir + Balsam Diffuser from Worthy Co

Gifting something that will improve the aroma of a space is always a safe bet. One of our favorites is the fir and balsam diffuser from Worthy Co, a nonprofit that reinvests 100% of every purchase into its mission of employing and empowering survivors of trafficking. $28 | worthy-co.com

Fix Me a Plate Recipe Book by Scotty

20 Local Holiday Gifts

North Pole, Schmorth Pole. Even Santa knows Fort Worth is where all the best gifts are made.

BY BRIAN KENDALL

Recipes from the heart and soul of Fort Worthian and food influencer Scotty Scott. But we must warn you, this book might make you want to exchange your upcoming turkey dinner for catfish and grits. $20 | cookdrankeat.com

Six-Pack of Martin House Toadies Bock

Pro tip: Place these bad boys under the tree in a cooler packed with ice. Put a red bow on top of the cooler and call it a day. $12.99 martinhousebrewing.com

A keen observer who snaps black-and-white film photos that ultimately reveal an honest and human portrait of the city we call home. $100 | willid420.bigcartel.com

Scott

Day & Night Mug by

Sarah Levings

It’s easy to compare Sarah Levings’ work to Henri Matisse — that is if Matisse were raised in West Texas and stripped of his pretentions. Any gift from the local artist and ceramist’s collection is sure to become someone’s favorite vase or item of dishware.

Miles and Miles of You by Pat Green on Vinyl

The local Texas country icon released this brilliant collection of 10 songs that pays tribute to the state he calls home. Just place the needle on the groove and enjoy. $25 | patgreenmerch.com

Best Maid Bloody Mary Mix

Yep, the pickle maker brings whatever secret sauce makes their pickles irresistible and applies it to bloody mary mix. $6 | bestmaidpickles.com

Juneteenth: A Children’s Story by Opal Lee One of Fort Worth’s greatest icons and the Grandmother of Juneteenth tells the story of why Juneteenth became a national holiday. Pick it up for the kids. $18 | opalswalk2dc.com

Haltom’s Exclusive Pendant

An exclusive at Fort Worth’s finest jeweler, this round amethyst pendant is sure to melt hearts without breaking the bank — you’re welcome.

$110 haltoms.com

Western Notebook by Wilkinson’s Fine Goods

A perfect gift for the cowboy creative, this handsome notebook comes customized — down to the color of the thread.

$400 | wilkinsonsfinegoods.com

The Fort Worth Coloring Book by Becca Waugh

Put your own spin (or hues, rather) on some of Fort Worth’s most iconic landmarks — Pioneer Tower, Dickies Arena, Stockyards, etc. Makes a great gift for kids of any size and age. $12 | sleepypanther.com

1883 Belt Buckle

Whether your loved one was an extra while shooting took place in the Stockyards or they’re just a big Taylor Sheridan fan — not that we can blame you — nothing will keep your jeans above the waist with as much swank as this buckle. $145 | yellowstonetvshop.com

Silverado Paisley Shirt from Schaefer

Like blue jeans and plaid, paisley never goes out of style. That means this durable, high-quality button-up from local outfitter Schaefer is sure to stand the test of time. $115 | schaeferoutfitter.com

Preorder your very own new Ford Bronco and get exactly what you want, in no time at all.

Don Davis Auto Group and Ford make it easy to get the car, truck or SUV you really want with a dealer assisted preordering system. Select color, options and equipment packages that are exactly right for you.

So stop by Don Davis Auto Group. Check out the new Bronco. Or perhaps a Ford Mustang. And unleash the animal spirit within.

dondavis autogroup.com

Jewelry from Mud Lowery

If you’re interested in purchasing jewelry from the dude whose turquoisestudded accessories can be seen on the wrists, ears, necks, and fingers of Carrie Underwood and Miranda Lambert, you’ll have to check his website on a near daily basis. His stuff sells quick. Prices vary mudlowery.com

TCU Football Poster

By Christmas time, TCU should be getting ready for a big bowl game (fingers crossed), so it’ll be high time to show your school pride with this purple poster. $20 (not framed or matted) etsy.com/shop/fotovint

House Blend from Enduro Coffee Roasters

The local coffee roaster that recently opened a brick-and-mortar shop in the Oakhurst area offers some of the city’s best beans. A bag of these beans for Christmas? You won’t make it past your turkey dinner without fixing a cup.

$14 | endurocoffee.com

Fringe Vest from Tucker Brown

A fringe vest is a must-have item for every Fort Worth gal. As one colleague of ours put it: It’s dime store cowgirl, but it’s cool. $78 | tuckerbrown1986.com

Panther City Tee from Morgan Mercantile

Not just the coolest Fort Worth tee — this is the coolest tee, period. If your loved one doesn’t already own it, it’s a must. $28 | morganmercantile.com

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF TILE EXCELLENCE.

Daltile’s history is paved with milestones that led to us becoming the world-class leader in Tile, Natural Stone & Countertops . As we celebrate this milestone, we are proud of the achievements we’ve made, and we look forward to many more years to come.

SHOWER WALL FARRIER ™ ANDALUSIAN GREY FA56

SHOWER FLOOR FAMED ™ GLAMOUR FM13

4

Dishing the Holidays

Chefs Molly McCook, Blaine Staniford, Juan Rodriguez, and Sarah Hooton are four of Fort Worth’s most recognizable chefs. From James Beardrecognized talent to conceiving the hottest, sold-out dinner events, these four notable culinary minds have one thing in common, they are part of Fort Worth’s biggest and tastiest culinary family — The Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation. This year the veteran festival chefs invite you to ring in the season with recipes straight from their family table to yours. Each dish represents both heritage and home, infusing their signature style while making it easy to bring chef-worthy flavors into your winter holiday celebrations and gatherings.

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND GRUYERE BREAD PUDDING WITH SPICED PECANS

Ingredients for roasted butternut squash:

• 6 cups butternut squash, peeled, deseeded and cut into 3/4-inch cubes (approx. 1 1/2 whole)

• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, stems removed

• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.

2. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss all ingredients together to coat.

3. Scatter butternut squash over a sheet tray and place in the oven.

4. Roast for 15 minutes and gently turn over the squash.

5. Roast an additional 10 minutes or until lightly browned.

6. Remove from oven and set aside.

Ingredients for spiced pecans:

• 2 cups pecan halves

• 1/4 cup butter, melted

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, gently toss all ingredients together.

3. Scatter the pecans on a sheet tray and place in the oven.

4. Toast the pecans for approximately 10 minutes or until they begin to brown. Be sure to check frequently, as they will burn quickly.

5. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.

6. Once the pecans are cool, roughly chop and set aside.

Chef Molly McCook Ellerbe Fine Foods

COLORADO RACK OF LAMB ON CAULIFLOWER PUREE AND GOLDEN RAISINS

Ingredients:

• 2 eight to nine bone rack, bone in, lamb rack

• 2 cups veal stock

• Salt, to taste

• Pepper, to taste

• Peanut oil

Instructions – Rack of lamb and lamb jus:

1. Preheat oven to 450 F.

2. Cut the racks off half of the racks of lamb leaving four loins and cut the remaining racks into two bone rack portions.

3. Place removed lamb bones onto a sheet tray and roast until golden brown. Approximately 15 minutes.

4. Remove caramelized lamb bones from oven and place into medium size pot and cover with veal stock.

5. Bring stock mixture to a high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until stock coats the back of a spoon. Approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

6. Strain reduce lamb sauce through chinois and season to desired taste and reserve hot

7. For racks heat a large sauté pan on high heat. Season racks with desired amount of salt and pepper.

8. Add enough oil to just coat the bottom of the pan and sear all sides of lamb until well caramelized.

9. Remove lamb from pan and place onto a roasting rack and place into oven for about 2 minutes.

10.Remove lamb racks from oven and rest. Reserve at room temperature.

For instructions on the cauliflower puree, golden raisins, and assembly, go to fwtx.com.

Chef Blaine Staniford Grace

MARY HOOTON’S CHOCOLATE CREAM PIE

Ingredients (for the chocolate filling)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 4 tablespoons cocoa

• 1 cup chocolate (use your preference if you like sweeter or more bitter chocolate but use a good quality chocolate) bar chopped or chips. I usually use 50%-65% chips.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2/3 cup sugar

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon Instant Espresso Powder (optional and not part of the original recipe, but a tiny bit of coffee enhances the flavor of chocolate)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 3 each, egg yolks only (toss whites or save for a meringue)

• 1 cup cream, the real stuff, and buy at least 2 cups more for the top

• 2 cups milk (whole is best)

Instructions:

1. Mix milk and half of sugar in a pot. Set chocolate chips and butter in a large bowl so butter can come to room temperature. Set bowl aside.

2. Mix remaining sugar and the cornstarch in a large bowl. Add yolks and 1 cup cream to make a paste. Add cocoa powder, espresso powder, salt, and vanilla. Set aside.

3. Combine remaining cream with the milk and sugar and begin cooking on medium low until it reaches a simmer. Turn off the heat.

4. While stirring, slowly add 1 cup of milk mixture at a time to the cocoa paste. The goal is to heat the paste slowly without cooking egg yolks. When the cocoa paste is heated, combine it with remaining milk in the pot.

5. Set pot on medium heat and bring to a boil to thicken. Stir frequently, watching the bottom. When the mixture has thickened, remove from heat.

6. Combine the thickened chocolate mixture with the chocolate chips and butter.

7. Pour into fully baked pie shell or Oreo crust.

8. Allow pies to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

Crust:

Traditionally, the Hootons use a pie crust that is fully baked off and cooled. At Hot Box, we serve this pie in an Oreo crust … ’cause who doesn’t love Oreos! And if you’re in a rush, it saves lots of time.

Serving:

The filling and crust can be made ahead to save time. Wrap each separately, then fill the crust the day of. Top with loads of fresh whipped, not very sweet cream and some chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa.

Chef Sarah Hooton Hot Box Biscuits

SWEET POTATO EMPANADA (EMPANADA DE CAMOTE)

Yields 12-16 Empanadas Empanada Dough

Ingredients

• 18 ounces all-purpose flour

• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 2/3 cup melted vegetable shortening

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• 1 1/3 cup sweet potato water (from cooking sweet potatoes)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 F

2. In a mixing bowl, add flour, baking powder, sugar, and vegetable shortening and mix well. Add sweet potato water and mix. Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes. Dough should be smooth. Let it rest for 45 minutes.

3. Divide the dough evenly into 12-16 portions, depending on what size you want. Roll them out into discs. Put in filling (sweet potato). Bring sides together to form a half moon and then crimp the edges with a fork.

4. Place on a baking sheet with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes.

Time saver: Goya makes an empanada disc already rolled out and ready to fill that you can find in the freezer section in the Mexican grocery store or any major grocery store, like HEB.

Sweet Potato Filling

Ingredients

• 2 cups water

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1/2 teaspoon allspice

• 1 1/2 cups of piloncillo, Mexican brown sugar

• 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled, cut into large cubes

Instructions:

1. Bring water, cinnamon, allspice, and piloncillo to a boil. Let sugar melt.

2. Add sweet potato and cook down until tender. Add water if it evaporates before potatoes are cooked.

3. Once tender, smash with fork or toss in a mixer and blend potatoes together. We are looking for a mash potato texture. You may need to drain a little bit of water before you smash. Once smashed, let cool in refrigerator. Filling must be cool before filling empanada.

Chef Juan Rodriguez Magdalena’s

Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m., MondaySaturday, 425 W. Third St., 3rdstreet.market. For information on cooking classes, visit indulgefw.com.

BY MALCOLM MAYHEW

My wife called on her lunch hour, as she often does, with her usual complaint: “There’s nowhere to eat downtown anymore.” It’s an observation she has made as a longtime downtown worker, often. It’s an observation that many of us have made often.

There are, of course, restaurants downtown, but more have fallen than opened lately, as this magazine has noted time and again. Pointing this out is no consolation to my wife, though, who’s hangry but burned out on Salsa Limon and Ashim’s Hibachi Grill and her other west downtown go-tos.

I tell her she’s in luck. A new café has just opened mere blocks from where she works, just a couple steps from where she’s walking right this second. 3rd Street Market, I tell her, serves sandwiches on freshly made bread, soups made by a local dynamite chef, and sweet galettes that she should bring home to me tonight. Right after it opened, I had a nice visit there. I imagined she would, too.

Opened in October by local culinary power couple, Dena Peterson Shaskan and her husband, Trent Shaskan, the restaurant and bakery are a combination of their two strengths.

A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York, Dena is the former executive chef at Café Modern, who now runs her own catering service, Mockingbird Food, while West Coast native Trent has spent the past few years making a name for himself as an expert bread-maker under the name Icon Bread. Both are also involved in The Table, a market and culinary studio the couple opened in the Near Southside with partners Hao Tran and Dixya Bhattarai in 2019.

For their new venture, the two have developed an approachable menu that would appeal to both foodies and those who simply want a nice, quick lunch.

Sandwiches rotate daily and have included roasted turkey with herb aioli, Kindred Creamery smoked Gouda and spring greens; curry chicken salad with grapes and almonds; beet hummus with alfalfa sprouts and cucumber; Italian on classic sourdough with hard salami, mortadella, spicy capicola, and calabrese salami and provolone with an artichoke olive mix; and a chicken banh mi with pickled carrots, daikon cucumber, and Sriracha mayo on semolina sesame sourdough.

There are also soups and salads, which rotate daily, too, plus a gourmet grab-and-go section stocked with

items such as lasagna, marinated chicken, and Hao and Dixya’s popular dumplings.

Breakfast offerings include pastries from local baker Kazuko Goto of Small & Baked Goods, gourmet coffee, and cold pressed, organic juices from partner Squoze Juicery. In the afternoon, there’s wine, beer bread, English tea, and charcuterie. 3rd Street sells wine by the bottle, too. “Wonderful wines that you can’t find at any old grocery store,” Dena says.

The food may be upscale, but the vibe is laid-back, Dena says. “Trent’s San Francisco roots, my time living in New York — it’s kind of a cool combo to make a chill vibe.”

Similar to The Pantry, the restaurant will offer food and wine classes from Bhattarai, another business partner.

Bread is a major focus for 3rd Street, especially for Trent, who has spent years perfecting his skills as an artisan bread-maker. His specialty is sourdough, but he’s adept at making all kinds. Bread is made fresh daily for the café’s sandwiches and also sold by the loaf.

The couple created an area just for bread enthusiasts. Says Dena: “You can sit at the bread bar and watch the bread being made.” My wife should never grow hangry again.

At Dena Peterson Shaskan and Trent Shaskan’s eatery there is soup for you.

3rd Street Market likes to say that “sourdough bread has come to downtown Fort Worth.”

Temperature’s Rising

A barbecue trailer-turned-brick-and-mortar restaurant called 225 BBQ is expanding its A-game in A-town

BY MALCOLM MAYHEW

As long as local barbecue aficionados can remember, Arlington’s traditional barbecue game has always been strong. Joints, restaurants, and ’cue holes-inthe-wall like David’s BBQ, Oh My BBQ, and Eddie Deen’s Crossroads Smokehouse have done a serviceable job in the brisket, ribs, and sausage business. Tastes in barbecue have dramatically changed over the past several years, though, as there’s been a statewide paradigm shift toward the Central Texas-style craft ‘cue popularized by places like Franklin’s in Austin. Fort Worth, in particular, has been quick to adapt (need we remind you that Goldee’s Barbecue has been crowned best in the state by Texas Monthly?), and now Arlington is catching up, with spots like Hurtado BBQ and a location of Dallas-based Lockhart Smokehouse.

Add to the mix 225 BBQ. What started out as a food trailer four years ago, nearly to the day, is now a full-fledged restaurant. Husband-wife owners Rene and Joyce Ramirez can now be found smoking meats and making creative sides in a brick-and-mortar location, just a few blocks from where they used to park their trailer.

Rather than open their own restaurant, the couple arranged to share space with an already-established business, Maverick’s, a popular sports bar. The couple and their staff run the kitchen, while Maverick’s handles the bar side of things. Rene says Texas’ brutal, unpredictable weather was the main factor in taking their business inside.

225 may not be as well-known as other new ’cue spots (their trailer was only open one day a week), but the couple’s food has been ahead of the

curve. Loyal, in-the-know customers will recall they were mixing barbecue with Mexican flavors long before it became a thing, and they were also early purveyors of experimental, nontraditional ’cue dishes, such as brisket ramen, burritos stuffed with Hot Cheetos, and nachos made with Takis and brisket.

“I won’t serve something unless I’m satisfied with it,” says Rene, whose days as a barbecue cook started at family cookouts in Pleasant Grove, where he grew up. “I experiment a lot, and sometimes an item doesn’t hit the menu for months.”

Texas Monthly’s Daniel Vaughn was an early fan of 225, championing the trailer for its cherry bombs, bite-size habanero peppers stuffed with brisket and cream cheese and wrapped in bacon, then smoked and dipped in a spicy barbecue sauce and dusted with Parmesan and crowned with a jalapeno. A variation of the cherry bomb is the atomic bomb – it’s made with the ridiculously hot ghost pepper.

Ramirez named 225 after the temperature he uses to smoke his brisket, and the outcome is consistently solid, a mix of fat, bark, and meat that is as rich as it is smoky. Other menu items include pork ribs, birria tacos, sausage in rotating flavors, honey-glazed pork belly, barbacoa tacos, brisket burgers, and sides such as bacon-studded mashed potatoes, charro beans, and elote topped with chopped brisket. It was an unusually large menu for a trailer, but now, thanks to a bigger kitchen, Rene and Joyce have plenty of legroom.

“The bigger kitchen has been a dream come true,” he says. “There’s no telling what kind of stuff we can come up with now.”

601 E. Main St., Arlington, facebook.com/225bbq

Restaurant news written and compiled by Malcolm Mayhew. You can reach Malcolm at malcolm. mayhew@hotmail.com or on Twitter @foodfortworth.

PHOTO BY CRYSTAL WISE

Celebrating the Season and Our Grand Transformation

Be among the first to see our gorgeous renovations, and celebrate with us at a festive open house. Discover how The Watermark at Broadway Cityview provides upscale amenities and stylish touches everywhere – from charming gathering spaces to spacious residences –while maintaining the authentic warmth of a welcoming community. Get a taste of our carefree lifestyle and fine cuisine as our chef welcomes you with signature treats and The Broadway Chocolate Martini (yes, you can take home the recipe!).

Find new ways to thrive every day in our elevated and upbeat community.

Please call 817-258-5535 two days before the event you’d like to attend. December 4, 10, and 14 • 4:00pm–6:00pm each day

Crème of the Crop

Touting unusual flavors, a new French-style ice cream shop, called Van Leeuwen, opens in Fort Worth’s WestBend area

BY MALCOLM MAYHEW

Odd, it may sound, for an ice cream shop to open in the dead of winter. But of course, the dead of winter in Fort Worth may be sunny and 85 degrees.

Regardless of the time of year, Fort Worth should welcome the arrival of Van Leeuwen, a gourmet ice cream parlor recently opened in the city’s WestBend development. It’s a chain, but the ice cream is different than most — thicker, richer, sweeter — and it comes in unusual flavors, including several vegan options.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream started in 2008 in New York, where the Brooklynbased founders – brothers Ben Van Leeuwen and Pete Van Leeuwen and their partner, Laura O’Neill — sold scoops out of a little yellow truck. The company now has more than 30 stores nationwide. The Fort Worth location is the fifth shop in Texas, behind three stores in Houston and one in Dallas’

West Village.

The company calls its ice cream “French-style,” which, in Van Leeuwen’s case, means unapologetically rich, with lots of cream and lots of egg yolks. Some of its more imaginative flavors include Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, Marionbutter Cheesecake, Honeycomb, Praline Buttercake, Bourbon Cherries Jubilee, and Hazelnut Fudge Cookie.

Impressively, it offers several rotating vegan flavors, such as Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll, Cookies and Cream Caramel Swirl, and Churros & Fudge, made with oat and cashew milk. The shop also offers milkshakes, floats, ice cream sandwiches, and sundaes, made with your choice of ice cream.

Many of the store’s flavors are also available in pints at local grocery stores, and the company also ships its ice creams worldwide.

1653 River Run, Ste 141, vanleeuweni -

Bits and Bites

In the same issue in which we honor the arrival of local chef Ben Merritt’s restaurant Fitzgerald, we bid farewell to another Merritt venture, the long-running Fixture

The restaurant, which served cheffy interpretations of American classics, opened eight years ago in the then-burgeoning Near Southside. Wielding a terrific chicken and waffles, fries made out of beets, and an irresistible blueberry, cream cheese bread pudding, Fixture quickly established Merritt as a talented, up-and-coming chef. Merritt says he’ll now focus full-time on his third endeavor, Fitzgerald (he also ran a burger joint on the east side called Ben’s Triple B’s, but it fell during the pandemic), which you can read about in our Best New Restaurant story on page 80 in this issue.

Local chef and restaurateur Felipe Armenta is opening several new restaurants in ’23. So busy is he, he’s hired another chef to oversee them all. Not just any chef will do, of course. Armenta went for gold, hiring celebrity chef Graham Elliot. The Chicago-based chef is best known for his many appearances on TV shows such as “Top Chef,” “Iron Chef,” and “MasterChef”; earning two coveted Michelin stars for his now-shuttered, self-named Chicago restaurant; and his white glasses. Armenta has many restaurants in the works — a steakhouse called The Duke, destined for the Stockyards, a French restaurant called Café Margot, coming to Hulen Street, among them. Armenta and Elliot will work together on developing and executing the menus for each.

Tickets for the 2023 edition of the Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival will go on sale Dec. 1. This year’s festival, happening March 30 – April 2, will feature six returning events, in addition to a handful of new ones. Gone is the evening dessert blowout, Desserts After Dark, held at the TX Whiskey Ranch, but in its place may be something more interesting: an event called Night Market in which global street food will be the dish du jour; it’ll be held in the evening at TX Whiskey Ranch. Also new is Noche del Soul, a collaborative, soul-food-meets-Mexican-food dinner featuring chefs Tiffany Derry and Juan Rodriguez. Back again are fest favorites: Tacos + Tequila, The Main Event, Rise + Dine, Burgers, Brews + Blues, Ring of Fire, and a separate pre-fixe brunch event called Hunt & Gather. Most of the happenings will once again take place outdoors at the Heart of the Ranch at Clearfork. For tickets and more information, visit fortworthfoodandwinefestival.com.

Fort Worth Magazine’s Chowtown newsletter serves up the newest food news and reviews every Friday. Hot off the press and delivered straight to your inbox. It’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

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A Fort Worth Christmas Tale

by Jocelyn Tatum

Illustrations by Scott Prather

It’s getting colder outside.

WHOOSH. The wind pushes a bundle of old dried leaves up behind her. They rise in fury only to slowly float back to the ground and settle at her feet. The chill in Texas comes a little later than other parts of the country. It’s early December, and Holly sits on the bench and lets her feet swing below her. Christmas is around the corner, but Holly isn’t as excited about it this year. Life has been challenging to say the least. Her parents got divorced a few months ago. The pandemic had been hard on her family, and the stress got to her parents. Money was tight. Was she even going to get presents this year, she wonders. And the fighting. She was so tired of the fighting. At 11 years old, her own world was changing inside of her as she approached her tween years. She has had a hard time fitting in at school. Like maybe nobody understands what she’s going through. She felt alone.

Sitting at her desk in the last class period of her school day, Holly often wondered why these things seem to only be happening to her. Was she the only one? Why did the rest of kids at school seem to have it so easy? Did anybody understand her? It was as if she were completely alone. Christmas, once a time filled with magic and wonder, was starting to look grim. She wanted to shake off the pain that felt as if ice formed like a shell around her heart.

Alas, the eternal school day was almost over. Turning the corner in the halls in this stuffy middle school, there she was. The new girl. Her skin, pale. Her lips, almost blue. Her eyes, glaciers. Her tone-on-tone outfit matched her lips, and her hair was a shade lighter than her skin. “I can’t believe her parents let her bleach her hair,”

Holly whispered out loud to herself. Holly wanted to say hello to her but was so shy. No, maybe not today. She started to walk past her until a giant eighth-grader ran into Holly pushing her into the ghostly new girl.

“Ouch!”

“What did you say?”

“That hurt.”

The eighth-grader got in Holly’s face. Her wide eyes narrow into focus, staring dead into Holly’s. She had seen this look before when she had a staring contest with her cat once before. The cat interpreted that stare as a challenge to a duel and scratched Holly across the face

missing her left eye by a pine needle. It was then she learned that that look is a threat.

“What did you say?” She repeated it again, this time giving her a chance to correct herself. “Nothing, sorry,” Holly said. “Leave her alone,” the new girl cut in. While she is little, this girl had a fierce and ageless look on her face. It said, do not mess with her or she could cut you with one look worse than any cat could. The monolith moved on, rattling the lockers with each step.

“Thank you. What’s your name?”

“Agatha. Yours?”

“Holly.” Agatha, that was such an old person name, Holly thought to herself. It fits though.

“Holly, want to get out of here?”

“You mean cut class?”

“No, after school. I just moved here and wanted to try the Tarantula Steam Train. It sometimes picks up in the Stockyards. My mom told me if I tried to make at least one new friend at school today that she would give us a ride. It could be cool. And you seem nice. Lonely, but nice. Wanna go?”

“Sure, anything is better than home right now. I will ask my mom. Wait, I think I am with my dad today. I’ll ask him.”

Within an hour Holly and Agatha were on the train. Agatha’s mom made a deal that they could ride in the train car alone, but she would be just one car over.

The train smelled like cinnamon, apples, and evergreens. The scent took Holly’s mind to another time and place. To her grandmother’s house in North Riverside. She was little and everyone was together. Everyone used to always be together. She remembered her grandmother had been prematurely running the heater since Oct. 1 as soon as the wind changed the outside temps to 88 degrees from 105. But that smell of the heater when you first turn it on in the season — the smell of stale dust burning — was a happy memory and reminder of the fresh, cool air outside. The smell in the train also reminded her of the apple pies her grandmother cooked during the holidays. She smiled at these memories.

HOOOOT CHOCOLATE! A man in an elf costume pushed a cart down the aisle of the train. I may be a little too old for hot chocolate, but why not? she thought. Agatha wasn’t above it either. Can you really

ever be too old for hot chocolate? Nah. Holly struggled to get that first sip of thick chocolate through the toasted marshmallow mound floating on top. It was perfect. The taste alone made her smile. It tasted like Christmas, the Christmas she had almost forgotten.

Agatha, not knowing Holly at all as they had just met, asked her about her story. “You look sad sometimes when walking the halls at school,” she said. “What’s going on?” Right then, the train started to rattle and shake. Agatha stayed calm as if nothing were happening. Or maybe she expected it. Had she been here before? But Holly freaked out. A giant blue circle of light, not unlike the shades of blue on Agatha’s clothes and lips, formed inside the train car.

“Get up. Let’s go.”

“Where? Let’s go where?”

“I want to show you something.”

Right then, Agatha grabbed Holly’s hand and pulled her into the portal.

Flash. Their entire world just changed. Yet, in many ways, it was the same. The difference was that in this place, she felt like she was wrapped in her grandmother’s arms. Safe, maybe. She looked up and saw a blue sky and high wispy clouds. Those winter clouds that seem to exist on the edge of the earth’s atmosphere only in winter. Not low and heavy like the dense clouds that form in the summer. It must still be December, she thought. She looked to her left and saw the Trinity River. To her right, Santa. Wait, SANTA? Where was Agatha? And what was he riding on? A longhorn? Can you even ride those things? She had so many questions. Panic would have normally erupted in her throat, but she felt so much peace in this place. The sun in North Texas during winter felt like a warm blanket offering little breaks from the bitter cold the wind and shade sometimes bring.

“Ho-ho-ho. Don’t worry about your friend. I sent her to bring you to me. You were about to tell her your story, but before you do, I want to show you a few things.”

What is going on? Whatever it was, anywhere was better than home. She is on horseback, and he is on this statuesque longhorn. “My child, do you remember the day you were sitting in the back row at Morningside Elementary. It was fourth grade. They were reading out the awards,” Santa said.

“Science award goes to Bobby Jones!”

But it goes to Bobby every year, she thought to herself.

“The reading award goes to Holly Carter!”

“My sweet child, that same year you won several top

art awards too. You have made top honors throughout elementary school as well. Don’t forget the power you carry within yourself. The joy and magic of Christmas are inside each of us, waiting to be unlocked. You can harness them and create joy.”

He reached into his pocket and grabbed something. “Here, your grandmother Nell wanted me to give you this.”

“How do you know my grandmother? I don’t even know her!”

It was a key, an antique key that had the letters T&P on it. It must belong to the Texas and Pacific Railway that used to take businessmen and travelers all the way to California and back before there were airplanes. Now, the Trinity River Express commuter train Dallas - Fort Worth route ends at that station, and the Texas and Pacific Lofts are in place of what was once the corporate office, paying homage to a little Fort Worth history.

Her father had told her stories about his parents and their adventures. Holly’s grandfather would travel to California for work using this train in the 1950s. Her grandmother Nell loved tagging along for the adventure. But Holly never met her. She died of cancer at a young age nearly 10 years before Holly was born. Holly has always been told she looks just like her. Her hands, her gestures, the way she walked, her tall and skinny frame. Her smile and uneven ears that made her sunglasses always seem a little crooked. It was as if Nell was always with her cheering her on. Sometimes she would think of her at random. What would it be like to have her as a grandmother? She had heard she was a fashion icon and an outgoing socialite. The story goes, when dysfunction would descend onto her grandmother Nell’s home like a winter storm, she would say, “All I want for Christmas is an orange and a few kind words.” That always stuck with Holly. She felt kindness was more important than winning the fights, so she often surrendered remembering these words.

“Holly, you have everything you need within you. Christmas magic doesn’t exist outside of us, but in our hearts. Nobody can take that away from us unless we give it to them,” Santa said in his soft yet booming voice.

Santa pointed to memories, reminding Holly of moments where she felt proud and resilient. “You loved to read. If things ever feel challenging, you escape into a book. Tales of horses like Black Beauty overcoming so much tragedy, The Chronicles of Narnia took you to faraway places in a fantasy world where courage was needed. You’re resilient. No matter how complicated life got, you found ways to

overcome it through reading or riding your bike or being outside in nature.”

Once Santa turned her attention to these good memories, other special moments flooded her memory. Like trips after school to the Japanese Garden with her mother. Her mom would pack a treat. They would go in the fall when the maples were fluorescent red against the sparkling orange and yellow backdrop of trees that hung over the koi fishpond. They would talk and laugh. Here, her mother taught her, her favorite word — a Japanese word that has no English translation. Komorebi: the light that shines through the leaves of trees. Holly always thought that light was so beautiful. If she was ever in a dark place, she would close her eyes and remember the streams of light that would beam through tree canopies in her neighborhood. She soon noticed these everywhere. When she was walking her dog in the fall when the light was softer and almost gold. It was as if the magic of that word followed her in her imagination and her heart.

Santa pointed across the river. One white wolf and one black wolf walked along the bank, powerful and graceful.

“Each wolf represents something. One could represent negativity, darkness, and shadows, and the other represents goodness, light, healing, and joy. Whichever one you feed is the one that grows stronger,” Santa says.

Holly thought for a minute while listening to the meditative sound of her horse’s feet hitting the trail in a rhythm that calmed her heart. She realized that maybe the answer to finding her Christmas joy is to focus her thoughts into the good in her life while not shutting the door on her bad memories and current hard times but using them as a way to help others. Because Christmas is about giving not getting, Holly thought to herself.

“If you could have one wish, what would it be? Think of something that will bring you out of the challenging moments you’ve wrestled with lately,” Santa said.

“To fly.”

“Remember that time that you went to the Kimbell with your parents, and they promised if you didn’t touch the art, they would take you to Parton’s Pizza for the allyou-can-eat buffet? Or the time you got your ears pierced and your parents got you pumpkin earrings to wear on your birthday. You all went to Paris Coffee Shop, as you did every Saturday, and split a bacon and cheese omelet with extra bacon. Your life has been filled with beautiful moments full of love.”

Holly’s favorite Christmas show was “The Snowman,” an instrumental television film known as a symphonic poem that came out in 1982 in England. It is based on the 1978 book by Raymond Briggs. There are no words but just scenes and music. It was her mother’s favorite, and something she and Holly would watch together each year. In the mesmerizing cartoon, the little boy’s snowman he built during a snowstorm that day came to life that night. The snowman took the little boy’s hand and off they go, flying over the snow-blanketed farms and fields, oceans,

and seas in a magical moment. A boys’ choir sings the enchanting song “Walking in the Air,” by Howard Blake, which plays hauntingly in the background.

The sun was starting to set in its big-sky Texas way. Oranges, pinks, and golds filled the horizon. Just then, her wish came true. Standing at 6 feet tall with a little orange nose, a green bucket hat, and a matching green scarf, The Snowman appears. He took her by the hand and off they went. She waved goodbye to Santa with a smile so big her cheeks filled with cold winter air as if they could slow her down like sails on a boat. Butterflies tickled her stomach. They soared over Fort Worth as the sky turned to indigo, then sparkles filled the dome above her. The people far below were sleeping. She was so high above and outside. The Snowman, with his squishy and soft hand in hers, smiled endlessly back at her. Here, she was untouchable. Here, she saw the bigger picture. Here, she could see everything will be OK. There is so much more in this world than her problems. Stuck in her bedroom with her AirPods on, they felt so big. But up here, with the world in view and a kind snowman by her side, they seemed so small.

They flew through the buildings of downtown Fort Worth, past the Frost building, then over the T&P Lofts, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, Casa Mañana’s landmark silver dome punctuated with geometric shapes. They passed neon-blue lined Cook Children’s Medical Center where she battled a painful autoimmune disease last year, remembering another thing she overcame while also remembering how many other children suffered worse than she did. How could she help them this Christmas? Then they passed over East Lancaster, where homeless people lined up for food and cots to sleep in that night. How could she help them this Christmas? Suddenly, her thoughts were taken away from her pain, while not muting her feelings. She had heard the famous Fort Worth civil rights activist Opal Lee on the news the other day during an interview. Holly was amazed that this woman was 96, still walking without a cane, still helping others, and filled with so much joy. The journalist asked Ms. Opal, “What’s your secret to all this energy and resilience and

joy at 96?” Ms. Opal’s eyes widened and smiled while she said, “Every morning I wake up and think about what I can do for someone else that day.”

Everything started to make sense for Holly. Her heart grew inside her chest. Her parents’ divorce suddenly didn’t seem like the end of the world. And instead of waiting for people to ask her to be friends at school, why couldn’t she walk up to them and ask them to hang out?

Tomorrow was Christmas.

She was safe back in her house after a quest that reminded her that life is magical and beautiful and that Christmas magic exists inside her heart. The part of her that connects us to each other and to all the things good in this world. It exists in all of your hearts too.

Her spoiled cousins were inside fighting over who got to open the Christmas Eve present first. Holly went out to her mother’s car and sat on the hood, lying back on the cold metal and looking up at the sky. The stars were brighter than ever on this clear and cold night. For the first time in her life, Holly felt connected to everything in the sky, feeling both most important yet small all at the same time. The vastness of the universe and her place in it all humbled her. Was this her first deep thought? She wondered as her thoughts wandered back to her recent adventures. Then she felt her grandmother Nell gracefully sitting next to her on the hood of her car. “All I want is an orange and a few kind words for Christmas,” Holly whispered. Kindness. That is what Christmas magic is all about. Kindness to each other. Not just to the people who support us the most, but to strangers. She realized it isn’t just about what she can get out of life, but what she can give back in life and what she can do for others who may be feeling like she has been? Holly, the most numbered little spec in an endless sea of stars, had a very important role in this world. She looked at the railroad key in her hand. She smiled knowing Christmas magic had returned to her heart once more. This time, she wasn’t giving it away. Instead, she will share it.

“Goodnight, Agatha. Goodnight, Snowman. Goodnight, Santa.” She smiled once again, thankful for this priceless Christmas gift.

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Best New Restaurants

There’s little doubt Fort Worth has cornered the market on distinct and dichotomous nicknames (Cowtown, Panther City, Funkytown, etc.), but after a slew of new and quality restaurants opened in the past two years, we might have to add another to the list: Flavortown.

BY MALCOLM MAYHEW PHOTOS BY CRYSTAL WISE

One thing I’ve noticed in covering Fort Worth’s restaurant scene for more than a decade now: It’s very much like a tug of war.

There are those who simply want Fort Worth to be the way it’s always been, a town built on, by, and for beef lovers. That’s why we have so many burger and barbecue joints.

And then there are those who try, audaciously and admirably, to move us forward, to get away from the obvious, to up our culinary ante.

But it’s that constant battle that has made the last two years of Fort Worth dining so interesting. On one hand, you have culinary daredevils like Beast & Company, The Pantry, and La Onda pushing our palates forward — La Onda, in fact, was recently recognized by Bon Appetit as one of the U.S.’s best new restaurants.

On the other hand, who can think of a better time to be a

barbecue/burger lover in Fort Worth? Our town has become THE destination for ‘cue in Texas. No. 1 in the state, according to Texas Monthly, is our very own Goldee’s Barbecue (which was featured in our last Best New Restaurant story, two years ago). Some might argue it’s Panther City BBQ or Dayne’s or Smoke-A-Holics, and that’s good. We have a lot of great places to argue about.

And burgers — man, oh, man, are there a bunch of new burger spots that have opened or soon will. Our city’s thirst for a good burger remains seemingly unquenchable.

Whatever side you’re on, whichever camp you fall into, our city’s dining scene had something new for you, whether it was a burger shack or an adventurous five-star restaurant. With that, we take a deep dive into the best new restaurants that have opened in Fort Worth over the past two years.

Tre Mogli

Four years ago, local chef Marcus Paslay opened Piattello Italian Kitchen, an Italian restaurant that hardly acted like an Italian restaurant. No stereotypical Sinatra music, no Godfather atmosphere, and there was barely a drop of red sauce to be found. Piattello unintentionally set the stage for other modern Italian restaurants to follow, including Tre Mogli, the latest venture by known chef Stefon Rishel and his Trident Restaurant Group. Rishel’s name may be attached to the restaurant, but the kitchen belongs to executive chef Alex Drury, whose family recipes make up the menu. Gotta get a pasta, which range from a fantastic Bolognese made with a mix of pork, beef, and veal, to a pomodoro with stewed tomatoes and basil, to a superb cacio e pepe bucatini, all made by hand. There are heavier entrees, too, plus excellent desserts. Beautifully painted in subdued colors and populated with tableclothed and candlelit tables, Tre Mogli’s a little more grown up than some of Trident’s other concepts, so dress nice and talk softly; this isn’t Wishbone & Flynt.

ORDER THIS: The scratch-made Bolognese is hard to beat. Get it with a side of crispy marble potatoes, made with duck confit.     INFO: 401 South Main St., tremogli.com

Beast & Company

Few new restaurants illustrate the art of moving forward as well as this upbeat spot in the Near Southside. There’s not another restaurant like Beast & Co. anywhere in Fort Worth, and that’s the point. Opened by owner Dustin Lee and executive chef Michael Arlt, it’s modeled after forward-thinking restaurants such as Giant in Chicago and other unique restaurants Lee once admired on business trips. Lee and Arlt took the old Mama Mia’s spot and transformed it into something almost otherworldly — a place where North African marinated olives can live side by side with Thai lobster bisque and chicken liver pate, and no one bats an eye. The lively menu reflects a jubilant atmosphere, in which service is fun yet polished and the vibe is casual yet classy. Go on a Friday night

Beast & Company

and you’ll need a megaphone to talk to your dining companions, the place is so noisy. Sit at the bar through the week for a quieter but no less stellar experience. A major leap forward for Fort Worth’s dining scene.

ORDER THIS: Only the strong can order the house bread and not make it disappear within minutes, the sea salt butter is so perfect. The Texas red snapper is unlike any other, with its undercurrent of Indonesian flavors.

INFO: 1010 W. Magnolia Ave., thebeastandco.com

Maria’s Mexican Kitchen & Towne Grill

Felipe Armenta, who over the past decade has opened some of the city’s most popular restaurants, including Pacific Table, The Tavern, and Press Café, was especially busy in ’21’22 with these two concepts — the stylish Maria’s Mexican Kitchen, near TCU in the old Hoffbrau building, and Towne Grill, a gem hidden among far north Fort Worth’s bastion of chains. Similar in both menu and vibe, the latter offers upscale bar food and globe-trotting entrees in a classy, lowkey setting. Maria’s is where his heart is, though: The restaurant is a lovely tribute to his mother — it’s her name and her recipes, although Armenta added plenty of his own touches. The food is stellar, from the scratch-made tortillas to the enchiladas stuffed with blue crab and butter-poached shrimp, to the parradilla, an assortment of meats and sides built for two, and the atmos is a blast, especially on the bar side, where a bullhorn is necessary to have a convo, so many people are having convos. The actual dining room, whose centerpiece is a beautiful painting of Armenta’s mom, has a midcentury look to it, with pine-colored humpback booths and pineapple-shaped lighting. Either room you wind up in, you’re going to have fun — and you’re going to eat well. Keep it up, Felipe.

ORDER THIS: At Maria’s, the lemon garlic rib-eye fajita platter is a true showstopper; you’ll be thinking about it for days on end, like a good first date. At Towne Grill, try the grilled

Maria’s Mexican Kitchen & Towne Grill

meatloaf or the salmon salad, made with perfectly cooked miso-glazed salmon.

INFO: Maria’s Mexican Kitchen, 1712 S. University Drive, mariasmexicankitchen.com; Towne Grill, 9365 Rain Lily Trail, townegrilltx.com

Don Artemio

The end result of a longtime friendship between general manager Adrian Burciaga, the former general manager of Café Modern, and award-winning chef Juan Ramón Cárdenas, Don Artemio challenges our notions of Mexican food. This is a good thing. You can call it “upscale Mexican food” if you’d like, but it’s more accurate to say the recipes — in both taste and presentation — are a reflection of the northeast Mexico region of Saltillo, where the original Don Artemio resides. In other words, this isn’t your basic fajitas and enchiladas Mexican restaurant. Rather, you’ll find the Chile Hojaldrado, a poblano chile stuffed with cream cheese and pecan; seared sea bass swimming in an Oaxacan mole sauce; beef tongue tacos, whose meat is braised overnight and sauteed in salsa verde and served on housemade corn tortillas; and mussels cooked in a chipotle sauce. All are served fine dining style, in a beautifully designed, slightly industrial, slightly chic, warm room bustling with activity and clinking wine glasses. Matching the food is the impeccable service, doting and knowledgeable. You may never eat at Joe T. Garcia’s again.

ORDER THIS: Each and every meal should start with the excellent nopalitos tacos, in which you build your own, using crispy shards of cactus cooked and served with bits of bacon, and freshly made corn tortillas.    INFO: 3268 W. Seventh St., donartemio.us

La Onda

You don’t need us to recommend this Latin-inspired seafood spot on the city’s east side. New York-based Bon Appétit magazine did that for us when they recently named local couple Victor and Misty Villarreal’s charmingly small eatery one of the best restaurants in

Don Artemio

Just Opened/Coming Soon

If you didn’t see your favorite new restaurant on our list, don’t worry — your fave new spot may just be too new for this story. The eateries on our Best New Restaurants list opened between the fall of 2020 and the summer of 2022. Our list runs every two years in November, and restaurants need to be open at least two months to be considered for inclusion.

That being said, a lot of new restaurants have opened over the last few weeks, and there are many, many more contenders for our next best new restaurant list to come. Such as:

3rd Street Bakery: The same team behind The Table market on the Near Southside recently opened this bakery and breakfast/ lunch spot downtown at 425 West Third St. Look for Puerto Rican-style breakfast items, plus pastries, soups, sandwiches, and a rotating selection of freshly made bread.

61 Osteria: An upscale Italian restaurant – from the same culinary team behind Grace and Little Red Wasp – will open late January on the west end of downtown, which is in dire need of a good restaurant, on the street level of the First on 7th tower at 500 West Seventh St.

e Butterfly Café: Newly opened fast-casual café and coffeehouse offers glutenfree, sugar-free and organic baked goods, plus sourdough bread, pizza, and other items. It’s at 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., in the Olivella’s Pizza old space.

Boca 31: This local chain specializes in Latin street food. Its debut Fort Worth location will soon open at 1000 Eighth Ave.

Brix BBQ: Fingers are crossed that Brix BBQ’s debut brick-and-mortar at 1012 South Main St. will be open by year’s end.

Café Margot: French café from busy Fort Worth restaurateur Felipe Armenta is slated to open sometime this winter at 3150 S. Hulen St.

Dayne’s Craft BBQ: Known not only for excellent craft-inspired ‘cue but also mouthwatering burgers, Dayne’s is the latest barbecue truck transitioning into a brick-and-mortar. Look for it to open sometime soon at 9840 Camp Bowie West Blvd.

F1 Smokehouse: Barbecue truck parked behind Press Café will take over Austin City Tacos’ previous digs at 517 University Drive. It’ll be the first BBQ venture for partner Felipe Armenta.

Graze Craze: New takeout spot at 4750 Bryant Irvin Road specializes in charcuterie boards. They come in various sizes, from a small solo size to a board big enough to feed 10.

J.D.’s Burgers: The Westland area continues to boom with the addition of this snazzy burger joint located at 9901 Camp Bowie West Blvd., opened by Gigi Howell of Reata and 203 Café.

Jon’s Grille: If the jampacked crowds are any indication, Jon Bonnell’s burgers and barbecue joint in the old Aardvark, at 2905 W. Berry St., is off to a good start.

Hudson House: Dallas seafood chain will open its first Fort Worth location in the old Celebration/Into the Garden building at 4600 Dexter Ave.

Hurtado BBQ: Craft ‘cue

spot that originated in Arlington recently opened a Fort Worth location in the pin dot spot last occupied by Derek Allan’s Texas BBQ at 1116 Eighth Ave.

Maiden Fine Plants & Spirits and Dreamboat Donuts and Scoops: Two new vegan concepts — one a fine dining restaurant, the other an ice cream shop — from the owners of Spiral Diner will open in ‘23-’24 in the PS1200 development at 1200 Sixth Ave.

Quince: The second location of this award-winning restaurant is slated to open late 22/early 23 in the Westbend area. The original, in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, was named the No. 1 Rooftop Restaurant in the World. The FW locale will overlook the Trinity River and Fort Worth Zoo. The globe-trotting menu will include seafood, steaks, salads, and sushi.

Sweetgreen: Newly opened salad chain takes over the old East Hampton Sandwich Shop space at 1605 S. University Drive.

Turkey Den: Recently opened on the east side, at 1201 Oakland St., this mom-and-pop is on the turkey leg trend, serving dinosaur-size turkey legs with crawfish, salmon, dirty rice, and more.

La Onda

the country. The couple won the kudos based on a menu made up of a unique mix of seasonal oysters and mussels on the half shell; rotating ceviche; seafood charcuterie boards (amusingly called “sharkuterie”); raw seafood towers with oysters, shrimp, and mussels; and an item you don’t normally see on menus, anywhere: dry-aged fish. Here, what you drink is just as important as what you eat. Misty’s cocktail menu focuses on artisanal mezcals and pisco (a Peruvian brandy), as well as house sangria made with Verdejo wine, a coconut-ginger margarita, and rotating agua frescas, in both boozy and booze-free varieties. Located in a historic bungalow, La Onda is small and romantic, with just a handful of tables. Reservations aren’t just recommended; in most cases, they’re necessary.

ORDER THIS: Any of the seafood dishes go great with the smoked potatoes, crispy potato cubes topped with caviar, crema, and a softboiled egg.

INFO: 2905 Race St., facebook.com/ LaOndaftw

Delucca Gaucho Pizza & Wine

This upscale pizza and wine bar takes the all-you-can-eat concept up a notch. You don’t stand in line to hover over a buffet filled with warmed-over slices. Rather, servers here bring the food to you, slice by slice, right out of the oven. Choose your slices from traditional pies like sausage and cheese to unusual pizzas, such as the mustget chicken tikka masala. In addition to the pizza, prices include a shooter of lobster bisque, a nice salad, and dessert pizzas, whose toppings feature fruits and Nutella. Developed by husbandwife owners Vanderleia Mallmann and Evandro Caregnato, Delucca was undoubtedly inspired by restaurants such as Texas de Brazil, where the couple met (there are also locations in Southlake and Dallas). The unusual concept makes for a lively atmosphere: It’s fun to anticipate what type of pizza your server will bring next and even more fun to watch people light up when

Delucca Gaucho Pizza & Wine

they try something new. Warning: You are going to be SO full.

ORDER THIS: The aforementioned chicken tikka masala pie is an absolute must; you may never go back to plain ol’ chicken tikka masala.  INFO: 3010 South Hulen St., delucca.com

Fitzgerald

With its opulent dining room and top-shelf steak and seafood dishes, Fitzgerald has brought fine dining back to the west side. Housed in the space long occupied by Blu Crab, Fitzgerald, opened last winter by Fort Worth chef Ben Merritt, is all class, with white tablecloths, attentive service, and very, very good food, from the raw oysters to the half-dozen steaks to the impressive number of fresh fish dishes. In a way, Fitzgerald is a throwback to a time when meals lasted hours, not minutes; when people talked all night; ordered bottles, not glasses, of wine; ran into friends; and had a whiskey before dinner and coffee after. It’s often well-heeled-towell-heeled crowded, loud, and a lot of fun. “People still want high-quality steaks, fresh fish, good wine, and a lively atmosphere,” says Merritt, who worked with business partner Chris Lynch to open the restaurant. “Fort Worth doesn’t have a lot of those restaurants. I definitely think we’re filling a void.” This is the third restaurant Merritt has opened — his other two spots, Ben’s Triple B’s on the east side and Fixture on Magnolia Avenue, closed due to pandemic-related issues. Hopefully, third time’s the charm.

ORDER THIS: The seafood tower appetizer, which gives you a little bit of everything: pickled and poached shrimp, seared ahi tuna, crawfish salad, plus fresh oysters; the crawfish mac and cheese, made with crawfish tails doused in Cajun seasonings; a big hunk of hummingbird cake.

INFO: 6115 Camp Bowie Blvd., eatatfitz.com

Pizza Verde

For years, the only vegan restaurant in town was Spiral Diner — and some may say in a city born and bred on

Fitzgerald

meat, Spiral Diner’s success is nothing short of a miracle. But ever since Spiral Diner opened, tides have been turning, and now there’s a greater appreciation — and bigger audience — for food not steeped in animal products. Pizza Verde is helping lead that charge. What started out as a pop-up turned into a full-blown restaurant last year when three pals — owners Jennifer and Landon Cabarubio and head chef Marcos Quintanar — turned the old Rocco’s Wood Fired Pizza into an all-vegan pizza joint. These aren’t pizzas just made with veggies most pizza restaurants serve veggie pies in one form or another. These are pies in which every ingredient, from the toppings to the crust to the cheese, is plant-based. The three have put a lot of work into their recipes, making sure, for instance, you won’t be able to tell the difference between their almond-based mozzarella and the mozzarella that’ll kill you — there are also soy-free, glutenfree, and nut-free topping and crust options. Eat here and you may just live a little longer.

ORDER THIS: Our faves are the potato leek pie, made with an olive oil and garlic base, diced potato, leeks, rosemary and lemon aioli drizzle, and a kimchi pizza, made with a hot oil and garlic base, kimchi, spinach, sesame seeds, and gochujang, a Korean red chili paste. INFO: 5716 Locke Ave., facebook.com/ pizzaverdetx

Da Crab Trap

The last two years have seen an influx of seafood boil spots in and around the Fort Worth area, but none are like this charming mom-and-pop restaurant found in a strip mall in far south Fort Worth. The Shields family hail from the coastal region of Georgia, and their food reflects their home — it’s not gimmicky, as is sometimes the case with seafood boils. There’s a clear focus on the seasoning that gives their food its unmistakable pop; it’s what makes their food, their food, they say. The restaurant’s signature dish is the Low Country-inspired seafood boil, made with shrimp and/or crab legs or clusters; each comes with red potatoes, boiled

Pizza Verde

Fred’s Texas Café:

The original Fred’s vacated its iconic West Seventh building for a new home on the west side: the old Steak & Ale spot next to the Benbrook traffic circle. Smart, smart move — business has been nuts. fredstexascafe.com

Comeback Kids

Whether they were revamped, renamed, or resurrected, these are the new old restaurants that made a comeback in ’21-’22:

Guapo Tacos: After Mariachi’s Dine-In moved from its original gas station digs to a strip mall space on the west side, onetime owner Angel Fuentes stayed behind, reopening the gas station taqueria under a new name. The food is still terrific, and there are still plenty of vegan options. And good horchata. 682-9669645.

eggs, corn on the cob, and sausage, all bathed in your choice of a mild to spicy sauce. Other items include a super indulgent mac and cheese, stuffed with lobster and crab meat, and pineapple bowls, a pineapple sliced in two, then hollowed out and filled back up with your choice of steak, sausage, or seafood. On Saturday nights, the plainspoken dining room lights up with a DJ, dancing, and light show. Like I said, there’s nothing else quite like it.

ORDER THIS: The pineapple bowls, somewhat of a rarity in Fort Worth, are ideal for sharing. Get it stuffed with sausage, bitesize portions whose skins have been expertly seared and blackened.

INFO: 3401 Alta Mesa Blvd., dacrabtrap.com

Il Modo

As we’ve noted elsewhere in this story, modern Italian cuisine has made a comeback in Fort Worth, with restaurants such as Piattello Italian Kitchen and Tre Mogli. Located on the ground floor of downtown’s Kimpton Harper Hotel, in what used to be the XTO Energy building, il Modo is another

Kintaro Ramen:

Jesus Garcia’s onetime west side ghost kitchen got the brick-andmortar treatment when he opened Kintaro Ramen in a West Seventh area space that, ironically, was once home to Oni, another one of his ramen concepts. kintaroramen.com

Lady & the Pit:

We were beginning to wonder if we’d ever see this soul food and barbecue joint again after it abruptly closed its original Handley location, which made our 2017 Best New Restaurant list. Thankfully, the restaurant quietly reopened in a smaller spot on East Lancaster last summer but with the same A-plus food and service. facebook.com/ LadyAndThePit

modern Italian restaurant that goes light on the red sauce but heavy where it matters, such as with the pastas, which are made in house — sometimes as you watch, thanks to an all-glass pasta-making room. You can eat at all hours, including breakfast, but a dinner visit is a must. Then, you can try the squash-filled agnolotti; personal pizzas topped with ingredients such as wild mushrooms and asparagus; and excellent sides and desserts. Since a change in chefs, the restaurant isn’t as adventurous as it was when it opened, but the flavors and old-world atmosphere more than compensate.

ORDER THIS: Rabbit pappardelle, a stew-like dish made with thin, ribbony pasta; it›s rich, hearty and absolutely delicious.

INFO: 714 Main St., ilmodorestaurant.com

Burgers N Beyond

Probably not in our lifetimes, but maybe one day, eons from now, Fort Worth’s obsession with burgers will begin to cool. Until then, hit up Burgers N Beyond, the best new burger joint in town. When we say “joint,” we mean “joint,” like,

Panther City BBQ:

One of the city’s top barbecue joints has expanded into the bar next door, which means you’ll no longer have to wait in 100-degree heat for some of the best ’cue in Fort Worth. panthercitybbq.com

Paris Coffee Shop & Roy Pope Grocery: These two legends in Fort Worth food circles were given new leases on life by the same team of local restaurateurs, whose loving care and attention to detail will hopefully carry them for another dozen decades. pariscoffeeshopfw. com, roypopegrocery.com

don’t expect anything fancy. Once inside this strip mall space, located across the street from John Peter Smith Hospital, next door to the Mr. T Food Store, you’ll be comforted by the sights and smells of owners Ali Taher and Miada Khalaf’s charbroiled burgers. These are the burgers many of us grew up on — thin patties piled high with crunchy veggies, a perfect flick-of-the-wrist of salt and pepper, American cheese oozing out from all ends. All of a sudden, we’re 12 again at a family cookout, without a care or a bill or a heartbreak in sight. A secret, Thousand Island-like sauce gives the burgers a tangy kick. Elsewhere on the menu, there are salads and a chicken sandwich and a Philly cheesesteak, plus excellent crinkle-cut fries, nicely salted, piping hot.

ORDER THIS: The Big BNB Burger — two angus patties, two slices of American cheese, grilled onions, and fresh lettuce and tomatoes, plus, if you want, the restaurant’s special sauce. Yes, you want.

INFO: 1704 Galveston Ave., burgersnbeyondtexas.com

Best New Food Trucks

Plenty of new mobile restaurants started rolling around Fort Worth over the past two years. Here are some of our faves:

Calisience and Birrieria y Taqueria Cortez: Birria has long been a staple of Mex-Mex restaurants in Fort Worth, but thanks to social media and good ol’ fashioned word-of-mouth, these two food trucks helped popularize the soupy, beefy version of this classic Mexican dish. Both are known for their birria tacos, served fresh off the grill with sides of consumme for dipping, and both have come up with cleverer birria dishes – Cortez is doing birria pizzas and birria flautas, and Calisience is just is known for tacos as they are for their birria ramen. Both have since opened brick-andmortar locations. calisience.com, facebook.com/ birrieriaytaqueriacortez

Delray Café: The food truck permanently parked outside of Nickel City is just one more reason to hit up NC, one of our fave new bars in FW. Delray serves memorable rifts on bar food/junk food –good and greasy burgers, hot dogs slathered in mustard and onions, and the best cheese curds in town. nickelcitybar.com

Gusto’s: Parked in the alley behind Hotel Dryce near the Cultural District, owner Jonathan Arguello’s truck produces some of the city’s best smashburgers – a smash-up of gooey American cheese; Best Maid pickles; grilled onions, if you want them; a secret sauce; and your choice of ketchup or mustard or both, all sandwiched between buns whose skins glisten from swaths of butter. Then there’s the patties, seasoned well, pounded thin, their edges perfectly crispy. Getcha a side of tots, too. instagram.com/___gustos/

Kelly’s Onion Burgers: Onion burgers became a thing in Fort Worth when Hookers Grill opened in the Stockyards a few years back. Following suit is this roving food truck operated by a trio of Oklahomans: brothers Andrew and Joe, and Mike Kelly, their pop. You *want* them to be Okies since that’s where onion burgers originated. Father and sons’ renditions of onion burgers are true to form: White onions are grilled until caramelized, then pounded into each patty as it cooks. Onions are also the star of the must-get side, the aptly named onion fries – a big, glorious mess of seasoned fries, grilled onions, and American cheese. It’s a delicious way to die. facebook.com/kellysonionburgers

Ober Here: Another food truck that has since graduated to a brick-and-mortar, Ober Here dishes out Filipino-inspired cuisine – primarily, bowls filled with rice, a fried egg, a pickled papaya called atchara, and your choice of meat, such as slow-cooked pork butt basted with banana ketchup (tocino) and housemade Spam (there’s also a vegan version). Owner Mark Guatelara, a native of the Philippines, recently opened a permanent space inside a food hall at 1229 Eighth Ave. oberhere.com

Da Crab Trap

Tim Love’s Best Year Ever

By Brian Kendall

Let’s pretend we’re keeping score: Who’s had the best 2022? Well, one could certainly make the argument for Tim Love. And not just among restaurateurs. But, like, among everybody.

The chef at the helm of Lonesome Dove has opened two restaurants in the past year — Tex-Mex joint Paloma Suerte and lavish Italian spot Caterina’s, both making their homes in the Stockyards. And, well, they’re both pretty darn good — bordering on the delicious. Oh, and he also managed to open a freaking music venue, too (which also serves food).

Paloma Suerte is Love in his comfort zone: Southwest-style cooking with a few curveballs thrown in for good measure. While the new restaurant has the obligatory skirt steak and grilled chicken fajitas, the menu surprises with a venison variation, too. The restaurant also gives Love the opportunity to hop on the birria taco train. But rather than dunking typical proteins in that yummy consommé sauce, Love shakes things up by offering beef short rib, duck, and Texas goat.

Caterina’s, on the other hand, is straightforward Italian fair — the kind of place that would be right at home in 1920s Little Italy. The new dining establishment provides one of the swankiest atmospheres in the Fort — much less the Stockyards. Unfortunately, the delectable house-made pasta got overshadowed by the restaurant’s no cellphone policy and jacket requirement, causing quite the stir. We actually dig the policy — restaurateurs can spice things up in several different ways.

For all intents and purposes, and for better or worse depending on to whom you speak, Love is having a big hand in shaping the Stockyards. While purists once protected and guarded the famed tourist attraction like one would a national monument or critically endangered species, people have slowly accepted the evolution of our city’s gem. Opinions unconcerned with food aside, his restaurants continue to deliver. Period.

ll Modo

UNFORGIVEABLE

BY BRIAN KENDALL

Forty years ago, a Fort Worth native, Charlie Brooks, became the first man ever, anywhere, to be executed by lethal injection. This is the story of his crime, his death, and the reporter to whom he admitted his guilt.

Dick Reavis invites me to hop in his canary yellow ’72 Volkswagen Beetle. We’re taking his dog, a handsome mutt named Hockey, to the dog park, and Reavis thinks it would make for a better atmosphere to chat — barks be damned.

I got shotgun, which means Hockey has to ride in the back, but it also means my seat is pulled all the way forward. If you’ve ever been in an old VW Bug, you’re aware that these fascinating, rear-engined vehicles have a thin piece of vinyl-clad metal that faintly resembles a dashboard. My knees are, for all intents and purposes, butting up to the windshield. After a two-minute search for the buckle to my seatbelt, we’re finally dog park-bound. With my tape recorder rolling, I first ask Reavis how long he’s had the car. “Fortyfive years,” he says in a rasp that I suspect is the result of an infatuation with Pall Malls. I quickly do the math in my head — a simple arithmetic problem, thank God — and realize he had the car for five years before the state’s execution of Charles Brooks Jr. I make the not-so-far-fetched assumption this is the car that, while on staff at Texas Monthly, he had driven to and from Huntsville’s Walls Unit to interview Brooks, “at least three but no more than six times.” This is the car he drove home after he had coaxed Brooks, a convicted murderer who had been sitting on death row for four years, into finally admitting that he was the one responsible for the killing of David Gregory, a 26-year-old mechanic with a wife and a son.

We’re on a friendly Highland Park road in Reavis’ home base of Dallas, hopping from neighborhood to neighborhood at a decent clip — Reavis isn’t one to pump the brakes for speed bumps. And through the cacophony of his car’s rattles and high-pitched acceleration, Reavis chats about his days as a civil rights activist in Marengo County, Alabama. This was around the time when the Voting Rights Act was signed into law. Reavis had marched with and met Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on a few occasions. But, as Reavis

humbly puts it, “If King were alive today, he wouldn’t know me from the next person.”

When we arrive at the park, Reavis grabs a chair and comfortably perches his foot on a wooden deck clearly made for canines. It’s chilly out, and Reavis’ small frame is well covered by a large black coat, gloves, and a well-used Bernie Sanders cap. He’s now 76 and a case of emphysema makes his sentences a little shorter than they once were, but he remains affable, nonetheless. He routinely squints his eyes and cocks his head back when he speaks, as if searching through his large file cabinet of a brain to conjure the memories of his phenomenal stories — of which there are surely thousands. As we ruminate over the state of journalism — from one reporter to another — I’m wondering when I should bring up Brooks.

Reavis was one of the few reporters who spoke to Charles Brooks Jr. when he was on death row, and he was someone who, if you’re aware of the information Reavis was able to obtain, had gained

1974

a certain level of trust with the death row inmate. He interviewed him the day before he died. He was in the Death Room at the Walls Unit when the state injected Brooks with a lethal dose of chemicals — the first time such an execution had ever taken place. He heard Brooks’ last words, and he saw his eyes close for the final time. Eventually, Reavis, catching himself mid-sentence, says, “We’re supposed to be talking about Charlie.”

“Oh, right, but I’m honestly just enjoying chatting with you,” I respond.

“I felt sorry for him in the end,” he says. “They came around a couple days before his execution and asked what he wanted for his last meal, and he said fish. But, as it turns out, the commissary at the prison didn’t have any fish on the day Charlie was to be executed. And, so, they had to substitute something, and I thought that was cruel. For $5 they could’ve gone to the supermarket and bought some fish. It didn’t make sense. I went out and had fish that day, I guess, in remembrance of him.”

I remind him that, in his story for Texas Monthly, Brooks had requested shrimp and oysters, not fish.

“Well, I can’t remember, but I know I had fish that night.”

The last meal, and Brooks eventually settling on steak, was something that bothered Reavis. He would bring it up a few more times during our conversation — always perplexed as to why Brooks couldn’t have gotten the meal he wanted.

Throughout the course of our chat, I realize that feelings toward and about a killer can shift rapidly — a feeling of sympathy subsides once one is reminded of the horrors the convicted murderer committed. “Charlie killed an honest worker,” Reavis says bluntly just a few minutes after his story about Brooks’ last meal. And with those words, I’m suddenly awakened to the realization that Brooks extended Gregory no such privileges when he shot him in the face. Why should I feel so badly for Brooks? Why should I feel sorry for a man who took another person’s life? And yet, I still do. And, clearly, so does Reavis.

Reavis’ story about the execution of Charlie Brooks, “Charlie Brooks’ Last Words,” would hit newsstands in

David Gregory with his family, circa

February of 1983, two months after Brooks’ execution. If you’ve never read the article, you should. Like, maybe even now. Within the text of Reavis’ 7,500word article was the revelation that Brooks, in a round-about admittance that Reavis got on tape, had indeed killed Gregory. A confession he had never before given in front of a court or to the media.

Brooks was arrested with another man, an accomplice, a friend named Woodie Loudres. They were both in the motel room off Rosedale Avenue where a bound, gagged, and defenseless Gregory was killed. But someone had to have done it. Someone had to have been the one to pull the trigger. According to Reavis, when the prosecutors got the two of them together and asked who did it, they pointed at each other.

Despite never recovering a murder

weapon and not knowing who committed the final deed, both Brooks and Loudres were found guilty in separate murder trials and sentenced to death.

As the pair entered the long process of filing writs and appeals, Loudres would strike pay dirt when an appeals court overturned his conviction, and he subsequently pleabargained for a 40-year sentence. Loudres would serve only 11 years, making parole in 1989. Upon doing a little digging, I found out Loudres died in Fort Worth in April of this year.

I realize that feelings toward and about a killer can shift rapidly — a feeling of sympathy subsides once one is reminded of the horrors the convicted murderer committed.

be found on the Greater True Light Baptist Church Facebook page. Brooks didn’t have the same luck. But he also had the misfortune of being seen with a gun. He had earlier in the day threatened Emma Speers, the wife of the owner of the New Lincoln Motel, by pointing the gun in her face and telling her,

“If you say anything, I’ll blow you and your daughter’s brains out.” But Brooks remained mum on whether he pulled the trigger that killed Gregory.

An unvarnished video of friends and family members eulogizing Loudres can

“Who shot the dude, you or Woodie Loudres?” Reavis asked Brooks in one of his interviews. And Brooks would

Charles Brooks Jr. speaking to a reporter from the Star-Telegram in Huntsville's Walls Unit, 1982.

respond with a canned answer, “I regret my participation in the events of that day.” But when Reavis pressed, Brooks finally said, “I don’t want to say too much. Let’s just say that, uh, you know, the gun could have gone off.” Reavis found a court transcript that said the gun with which Brooks threatened Speers was a long-barreled revolver. As Reavis posits in his article, revolvers don’t go off on their own accord. “If you know anything about revolvers, you know that’s impossible,” Reavis tells me. “You can take [a revolver] and bang it on this table, and it won’t go off. It just couldn’t have gone off.”

When he confronted Brooks with the new information, Brooks finally gave insight into what actually happened. “Yeah. I’m not talking about accidentally discharge as in, let’s say, like an automatic. In order for a revolver to discharge, you have to either cock the hammer or either pull the trigger,” he told Reavis. “What I’m saying is that, OK, like, if you’ve got the hammer cocked, okay, it can be an accident when you twitch that finger. That don’t, that trigger can be pulled deliberately or by accident.”

Whether by accident or the effects of a lingering heroine high, it didn’t matter. Charles Brooks had made a stunning admission to the Texas Monthly journalist: He pointed a gun at Gregory, cocked back the hammer, and it was his finger that sent the bullet toward Gregory’s face. As Reavis reasoned in his article, “They had picked the right outlaw.”

Brooks patiently awaited, strapped to a gurney in a room full of dozens of spectators, for the last bit of pain he would, hopefully and theoretically, ever feel: a prick. But whether he felt more than that, we’ll never know.

Charlie was to shake his head back and forth, from side to side as if to say, “No,” if he felt any pain. This was the plan — straightforward and seemingly easy to decipher.

This was the deal Brooks cut with Reavis in the days leading up to his execution. You see, this was the first time this had been done. This was the first time ever, anywhere, that someone would be put to death by lethal injection. The notorious electric chair, Old Sparky, a foredooming seat that 361 condemned inmates had previously taken, was no longer the centerpiece of the Death Room. In its place was a gurney with large wheels and a thin mattress. A combination of eight straps were affixed to the white-sheeted bed, ensuring any convicted killer would only have the use of his or her neck. This sterile cot is where Brooks would lie down and receive three separate drugs — sodium thiopental, Pavulon, and potassium chloride — intravenously that would put him to sleep, paralyze his muscles, and stop his heart, respectively. “It’s the same way they put down dogs,” Reavis tells me. While some vets use potassium chloride for euthanasia, most use a barbiturate called Pentobarbital, but the idea is the same: to humanely stop a heartbeat. And this wasn’t a new way to die. The idea of using intravenous drugs to intentionally end a life has been around since 1870, but this was the first time that it would be forced upon someone in a public setting. So, there was a natural sense of curiosity. Would he simply fall asleep? Or would he feel pain? Brooks, being the first, clearly felt a need to communicate, in some way, his experience. And the shaking of the head made sense. Not only was the motion of his neck one of the few things Brooks would be able to control, but he was also very particular about what his last words should be, and he didn’t want any verbal cues to disrupt his phrasing.

Not only was Charlie Brooks in line to be the first man executed via lethal injection, but he was also about to

become the first man executed in Texas since 1964, when judicial challenges resulted in a national moratorium on executions in the U.S.

In a 1972 case heard by the Supreme Court, Furman v. George, the justices, in a narrow 5-4 decision, abolished the death penalty. Their ruling concluded that such sentencing was in violation of the Eighth Amendment’s ban on cruel and unusual punishment. Three justices argued there was an arbitrariness when it came to how states imposed the death penalty and found a racial bias against Black defendants — especially in the cases of Black defendants committing crimes against White victims (as was the case with Brooks). Essentially, some murderers spend the rest of their lives in prison, and some get executed. And the court didn’t see any consistency in a state’s rationale regarding who should and should not be executed. It appeared that not all killers were created equal — which is unconstitutional.

Four years later, after state legislatures passed laws to comply with the Furman ruling — making their sentences less arbitrary — the Supreme Court upheld the death sentence of Troy Leon Gregg in Georgia, opening the flood gates on the potential executions of 1,050 death row inmates. As the Supreme Court stated in its decision, “The most marked indication of society’s endorsement of the death penalty for murder is the legislative response to Furman.”

Now that the Supreme Court effectively lifted the moratorium, a new method of execution would soon sweep the nation. Following the Gregg ruling, a Dallas reporter named Tony Garrett filed a suit seeking permission to film executions. Garrett’s initial victory in federal court led to Texas legislatures approving a more palatable, primetime-worthy method. Something less unsightly and unsettling than a man being jolted by 2,000 volts of electricity in an upright wooden chair. This led to lethal injection becoming the new form of execution in Texas — quickly following Oklahoma’s footsteps, which became the first state to adopt the method three months prior. Yet, Garrett’s suit was overturned when the case

Charles Brooks Jr. in Huntsville's Walls Unit, 1982.

reached the Fifth Circuit. Thus, why you will never see a video on YouTube of a state’s execution of a man or woman. Regardless, lethal injection remained the method of choice and is to this day the primary method of execution in 28 of 29 states that authorize the death penalty.

But moral and humanitarian debates over lethal injection persist, and the procedure has come under intense scrutiny over the past several years. Botched executions, new scientific evidence, a lack of trained medical staff on hand, and difficulty receiving a supply of the drugs have led to a widespread reexamination of the practice, which has culminated in several lawsuits claiming that lethal injection constitutes cruel and unusual punishment. The majority of these suits circle around the drugs midazolam and potassium chloride. Prisoners claim midazolam causes fluid to build up in the lungs, creating the feeling of suffocation, and potassium chloride induces a pain “similar to being burned alive.”

Six states currently use the above drugs in their execution protocols — Texas, which now uses a single drug in its protocol, pentobarbital, is not one of them. But the Lone Star State hasn’t gotten off scott free. In recent years, Texas has accumilated its fair share of challenges to its use of lethal injection, including a 2018 suit that went to the Supreme Court — where the challenge was denied. In spite of the opposition, Texas isn’t slowing down its cadence. The state has become renowned for the amount of death row inmates it executes — a rather morbid reputation that’s either positive or negative depending on to whom you speak. And there’s been a notable uptick in executions since the state switched its method to lethal injection, with Texas doubling its execution rate since the change in method.

Reavis and I make the trek back to his house, and we continue our conversation in his home office. He takes out a red pack of Pall Mall

cigarettes and asks if I mind if he smokes. I tell him it’s no problem. He goes through five cigarettes during the remainder of our conversation. Though he’s clearly someone who’s been doing it, smoking, for a while — perhaps even an expert, if you will — he relights each cigarette no less than four times, frequently allowing the ember to die. Whether it’s Dick getting too caught up in talking or a way to manage his nicotine intake, I can’t tell, but the conversation seems to naturally pick up when he’s got a cigarette between his index and middle fingers.

We talk about Brooks intermittently and get on the subject of lethal injection and his pledge to Brooks to watch for his sign.

“I do believe that it is the most humane way to do it,” Reavis says when I ask him about lethal injection.

I remind him of a study he referenced in his story on Brooks that I found interesting. In 1953, the British Medical Society studied a proposal for the use of lethal injection. Its conclusion argued

that, not only is it unsuitable on Hippocratic grounds, but also, in a bit of Old West logic, men die best on their feet.

“Human nature is so constituted,” the report said, “as to make it easier for a condemned man to show courage and composure in his last moments if the final act required of him is a positive one, such as walking to the scaffold, than if it is mere passivity, like awaiting the prick of a needle.”

“It is kind of pitiful, isn’t it?” Reavis says in response to my query.

Brooks patiently awaited, strapped to a gurney in a room full of dozens of spectators, for the last bit of pain he would, hopefully and theoretically, ever feel: a prick. But whether he felt more than that, we’ll never know. Reavis kept his end of the bargain; he watched for Brooks’ signal. Two minutes after the injection began, right as he would begin to feel the effects of the drug, Brooks slowly moved his head from shoulder to shoulder. He made only one revolution of a “no” signal, and his head stopped midway through its second turn to the left. Was he in pain? Reavis remains, to this day, uncertain.

The day Charlie died, he went by a different name — Shareef Ahmad Abdul-Rahim. This translates roughly to “Noble Praiseworthy Servant of Allah the Merciful.” Like many Black prisoners, Brooks — as we’ll continue to call him through the remainder of this story — had given himself fully and sincerely to the teachings of the Nation of Islam, a sect of the religion that had engaged in prisoner outreach since 1942. He tried Christianity but, “it didn’t do for [him] what [he] wanted.” You see, as Shareef, Brooks saw the errors of his ways. He was no longer the drug-abusing thief with two estranged children and a long history of wrongdoings and run-ins with the law — and steady stints in and out of

Dick Reavis, circa 1989, with the VW Bug he's owned since 1977

prison sprinkled in. He was now a noble servant of Allah. But such a conversion, such a pledge to improve as a human being, would not expunge his murder of David Gregory.

But Brooks was hopeful, even during the last few days of his life, that he would die an old man — that he would continue his work as an Islamic convert well into his golden years. That tune changed just hours before he was to be put to death. Brooks was now fully aware that, in this life, he would receive no clemency. But perhaps he could, at the very least, receive mercy from Allah in the hereafter.

Interestingly, to read Brooks’ biography, one doesn’t get the impression of a man who was dealt a bad hand. The namesake of his father, a cutter at the old Swift & Co Meatpacking Plant here in Fort Worth, Brooks grew up in a religious and solidly middleclass family. He went to I.M. Terrell High School, where he played football and was considered one of the popular kids. He married his high school sweetheart. And, when his father, Charlie Sr., died at the age of 55 — just before his 14th birthday — Brooks inherited his new Chevy and a pension made in his name.

Dick Reavis tells me that Brooks was handsome, soft-spoken, and intelligent. “You wouldn’t know him from anybody else,” he says. “What was key to the crime was he was a heroin addict when it happened. Well, in prison, of course, he wasn’t doing heroin. And I’m sure he was a different man from what I would’ve known on the street.”

Somewhere along the way, Brooks got hooked on drugs. According to Reavis’ story, Charlie rebuffed the idea that he was a heroin addict. Instead, it appears, he was an indiscriminatory junkie — someone who did everything under the sun, whatever was available in the moment. A high is a high, no matter the source.

He became estranged from his wife and two sons when he started slipping in and out of prison. His first stint came in 1962 on a burglary charge in Baton Rouge. From there, it was a slippery slope. As Reavis puts it, “Charlie did not grow up in our prisons. He grew in them.”

Despite the intense media coverage Charlie received around the time of his execution, there’s nothing fascinating, dramatic, or story-worthy about the day Brooks killed David Gregory. This is likely the reason Brooks’ story seldom gets repeated. Forty-six years after he committed the crime and 40 years after he was executed, Brooks’ name garners a confused reaction if brought up in casual conversation. This in the face of his status as the first man to die by lethal injection. No true crime documentary has ever been made, no book has ever been written, and no status of infamy has ever been achieved. And, in all likelihood, they never will.

High on heroin and buzzed on booze, Brooks and Loudres were hanging out at a liquor store on Rosedale Street on the morning of Dec. 14, 1976, when a known prostitute, thief, heroin addict, and alleged roommate of Loudres, Marlene Smith, picked the pair up in a car she was borrowing in exchange for sexual services. The three then drove to the New Lincoln Motel, a “hot-sheet inn for prostitutes and shooting gallery for addicts,” where Smith and Loudres lived in Room 15. There, the three took heroin and subsequently drove to the home of Brooks’ mom, where they drank. The plan after that brief stay was to go shoplifting in Fort Worth’s southside, but as they were driving onto East Lancaster, their car broke down. After pushing it into a service station and unable to get it started, Brooks walked to a nearby used car lot to “get a car to test drive.” That particular lot required someone to go with him, and David Gregory, a paint and

body repairman, was “told to accompany [Brooks] around the block.” Somewhere on the way back to the New Lincoln Motel, Brooks and Louders bound and gagged Gregory and threw him in the trunk of the car. According to the police report, “[Brooks] released [Gregory] from the trunk of the car and took him at gunpoint into Room 17 of the motel. Shots were heard soon after.”

I ask Reavis what Brooks was like the day before he died.

“He was … not calm.”

“Scared?”

“Scared or worried; he was dreading it. His demeanor had changed.”

But Brooks was hopeful, even during the last few days of his life, that he would die an old man — that he would continue his work as an Islamic convert well into his golden years. That tune changed just hours before he was to be put to death. Brooks was now fully aware that, in this life, he would receive no clemency. But perhaps he could, at the very least, receive mercy from Allah in the hereafter.

Outside the walls of the Huntsville prison, things were frenzied and chaotic. Brooks’ lawyers — desperately seeking an 11th hour stay — were working ‘round the clock. Demonstrators, gathered where they could be seen from a small window inside the Death Room, chanted incessantly — mostly looking for justice to be served. Media, jumpy as ever, were primed to get scoops and break news. But inside the Walls Unit — so named for its red brick façade — things were decidedly calmer. Brooks, quiet and scared, played chess with a guard, ate his last meal, and later wrote letters, prayed, and mused over his life. He was to be executed in just a few hours, at midnight.

His ex-wife and two children showed up around 11 p.m., looking to witness the execution and hoping to get one last glimpse of their estranged father. He didn’t want them there. He didn’t want them to see him like this. According to

Reavis, “the poor kids didn’t know what was going on. It was a sad thing. That might’ve been in my story.” It was.

Brooks had gotten a new girl while he was in prison — a Fort Worth nurse named Vannessa Sapp. The two shared letters before the pair became an item. They went through the normal evolution of a relationship — courting, dating, exclusivity, followed by engagement. The judge on Charlie’s case, David Belew, offered to marry the two, but the couple never technically took the plunge.

Sapp would be in the room when Charlie died, along with Dick Reavis; Larry Amin Sharrieff, Brooks’ spiritual advisor; and about 20 other witnesses. It was just before midnight when Charlie walked into the room with a catheter already in his right arm, and he calmly lay down on the gurney.

Reavis was shocked by how resigned Charlie seemed, as though he was expecting him to show resistance — some kind of instinct for selfpreservation to kick in. But he didn’t show any. He calmly allowed the guards to strap him in the gurney and said his last words, a prepared statement in both Arabic and English.

“Ashhadu an l¯a il¯ah ill¯a All¯ah, Ashhadu an l¯a il¯ah ill¯a All¯ah.

Ashhadu anna Muhammadan Ras¯ul All¯ah, Ashhadu anna Muhammadan Ras¯ul All¯ah.

I bear witness that there is no God but Allah.

I bear witness that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.

Inna li-All¯ah, wa-inna il¯ayhi rajic¯un Verily unto Allah do we belong, Verily unto Him do we return.”

The drugs were then administered, and he mouthed “I love you,” to Sapp. While fading, and likely fighting to stay awake, he let out an audible “Ahllll …” He then closed his eyes and lay motionless.

Did he deserve to die? Was he a cold-blooded killer whose psyche could never play nice with others? Or was he strung out on dope the day he killed Gregory, influenced by drugs to carry out this heinous misdeed?

Reavis later found out, through Brooks’ spiritual advisor, Larry Amin Sharrieff, what Charlie was trying to say when he let out the noise before his consciousness waned. He was saying “Allah u Akbar,” meaning “Allah the Most Great.” Charlie had wanted to say these three words after he completed his monologue. He wanted these to be his final words. This, Charlie had hoped, would gain him admittance to paradise.

After seven minutes, a physician pronounced Brooks dead.

The following day, a headline for United Press International read, “Condemned Man Dies Peacefully.”

Norma Morrison, the mother of David Gregory, didn’t stay up for the execution. The following day, she said “It would be very unfeeling for me to sit up and

gleefully wait for the execution of a man. I have feelings also for the people that he’s leaving behind in his own family.”

She went on, “I would like the message to be strong and clear that if you kill someone, you pay. He executed my son. I feel if you can execute someone, you should graciously accept your own execution.”

Days later, Charlie’s body was brought back to Fort Worth where he had two funerals — the first for his Islam faith at a mosque on the southside and the second at a Baptist church off Ramey Avenue in Stop Six. At the second funeral, Charlie’s estranged son, Derrek, spoke to the congregation.

Eight years ago, Derrek gave an interview with the Texas After Violence Project, where he remembered what he said at his father’s funeral.

“I didn’t know my dad a lot, so I didn’t know whether to call him dad, daddy, papa, Charlie Jr,” Derrek told those gathered to pay their respects. “I wasn’t sure what to call him because I didn’t really know him like a son should know a father. But, if he had lived, I would’ve been able to find that answer out. But they killed him, so I never got to find out [what to call him].”

They don’t make journalists like Dick Reavis anymore. Heck, I’m not even sure they make people like Reavis anymore. He’s an unabashed Marxist, or “if people call me a communist or anarchist, I don’t complain,” who got his start in journalism working for the left-wing press.

He was someone who fought for, and routinely wrote about, those who were marginalized — those who didn’t get a fair shake in life thanks to circumstances beyond their control. While he majored in philosophy, he’s got an honorary degree from journalism’s school of hard knocks. He’s an old-school and highly ethical

Layout of the Death Room, including key witnesses, in Huntsville's Wall Unit during the state's execution of Charles Brooks Jr. on Dec. 7, 1982

reporter whose unpolished nature is what makes his writing and his advocacy so alluring. The way I see it: We need people like Reavis. Someone’s gotta be the radical. Someone’s gotta fight systems and status quos. And Reavis is plum pleased to do just that.

But, in a slight curveball, when it came to Brooks and how he feels about the state executing him, Dick Reavis is on the fence.

“Everybody who read the story thought I wrote it to oppose the death penalty. But truth is, to this day, I don’t know what to make of the death penalty.”

Reavis plays coy concerning whether he felt Brooks deserved to die. He has a very pragmatic approach to the subject of capital punishment — citing studies that prove, in some cases, rehabilitation’s faults and impracticalities — Reavis

thinks, for some people, it’s better that the state executes them.

“I think there are individual circumstances in which I would be in favor of [the death penalty],” Reavis says. “With Brooks, he had killed an honest worker, so I thought ‘so what if they execute him?’ It wasn’t they ought not to or they ought to execute him. It was so what? That was my attitude.”

I don’t know whether it’s normal to have mixed feelings about capital punishment. I don’t know if people are in the same boat that Dick and I both find ourselves. It isn’t something I bring up when having dinner with friends, so I don’t have a good pulse on what people really think. But Brooks, to me, is a fascinating case study. Sure, he likely pulled the trigger — Dick Reavis got him to admit that much. But did he deserve to

die? Was he a cold-blooded killer whose psyche could never play nice with others? Or was he strung out on dope the day he killed Gregory, influenced by drugs to carry out this heinous misdeed?

Perhaps asking whether someone deserves to die isn’t the right question. Capital punishment and the way it’s carried out is bigger than one man. But when it comes to Brooks, I have to know.

So, I ask Reavis straight up, “Was Charlie Brooks a cold-blooded killer?”

Reavis cocks his head back and squints, and I prepare myself for an answer to the question that’s been burning inside of me since I randomly came across the story of Charlie Brooks months ago. In hindsight, Reavis’ response is more appropriate and enlightened than I initially thought.

“I don’t know the answer to that.”

Yeah, it’s not so cut and dry.

The Walls Unit in Huntsville, where Charles Brooks Jr. was executed

RECOGNITION

We are honored to be consistently recognized year after year for our commitment to exceptional service. Congratulations to the 17 Decker Jones attorneys and all the trusted advisors named 2022 Top Attorneys by Fort Worth Magazine.

PRACTICE AREAS

Business & Corporate, Commercial Litigation, Construction, Estate Planning & Probate, Finance & Banking, Intellectual Property, Labor & Employment, Mediation, Mergers & Acquisitions, Oil & Gas, Real Estate & Real Estate Litigation

Not Pictured: Prichard Bevis, Eris Camp, Raymond Kelly, III, Gary Moates, Philip Spencer

From left to right: Natalie Irwin, Timothy Malone, Randy Hall, Mark Dugan, Michael Goodrich, Janet Hahn, James Stripling, Brian Yost, Charles Milliken

As a full-service law firm headquartered in Fort Worth, Decker Jones proudly serves clients throughout North Texas with business and personal interests across the U.S for more than 125 years. The firm believes in a one-on-one approach, with every client having a single point of contact supported by a network of attorneys working together. Decker Jones applies creative solutions to complex legal issues. In doing so, they help their clients achieve long-term goals while addressing immediate legal needs and seizing business opportunities.

From left to right: Eamonn Wiles, Adam Fulkerson, Anthony Cuesta, Vianei Braun, Jacob Tucker, Daniel Bates, Bradley Rice, Meghan Collier

Top Attorneys 2022

While it’s true that legal advice is best left to the pros, you also want to make sure the pro you have in your corner is up to the task. To ensure you have the best representation, we recommend starting here with Fort Worth Magazine’s 2022 Top Attorneys, our annual listing of the best lawyers in town, as voted for by their peers.

This year, 693 lawyers made the list, categorized by specialty and whether they’ve been in practice for more or less than five years.

How we did it: Earlier this year, we asked local attorneys to submit nominations via our website, fwtx.com. The magazine applied a minimum number of votes it took to make the list, giving bonus weight to lawyers who made the list any of the prior three years. We then asked a panel of highly regarded lawyers in the area to review the list prior to publication and make recommendations on other lawyers who should be on the list, and even ones who should come off for any reason. With this input, we finalized the 2022 Top Attorneys list. By including a lawyer on these lists, the magazine does not recommend or endorse his or her service. Lawyers licensed as of December 2017 are considered to have more than five years in practice for this list.

2022

MORE THAN FIVE YEARS IN PRACTICE

ADMINISTRATIVE

Allenna Bangs

Francesca Blackard

George Boll

Over the past 10 years, the number of active State Bar of Texas attorneys has increased by 21%, from 89,987 attorneys in 2011 to 108,816 in 2021.

Source: State Bar of Texas

Andrea Cottrell

Leann Guzman

Thomas Royce Hansen

William “Judd”

Pritchard

Bradley “Brad” Scalise

ADOPTION

Eric Freeby

Kellye Hughes

Alyssa Jacobs

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

John Brookman

John Allen Chalk

Randy Hall

Kight Higgins

Joseph Horn

Roland Johnson

Wade McMullen

Daniel “Dan” Paret

Diego Pena

David Seidler

APPELLATE

Marianne Auld

Russell Barton

John Cayce Jr.

Roger Diseker

Joe Greenhill

Thomas “Tom” F. Harkins Jr.

Steven K. Hayes

Caitlyn Hubbard

David Keltner

Scott Lindsey

Thomas M. Michel

Karen S. Precella

Jody Sanders

William “Brent”

Shellhorse

Jason Smith

Matthew “Matt” Stayton

Shelby White

AVIATION

Jonathan Harrison

James “Jim” Kiser

Guy H. Riddle

Daniel “Dan” Vela

BANKING

Elliott S. Garsek

Daniel “Dan” Lowry

Bruce W. McGee

Nicholas S. Pappas

Paul Roger “Trey”

Penny III

Dan Settle Jr.

BANKRUPTCY

John Bonds

John Robert “Bobby” Forshey

Mark French

Katherine “Kat”

Hopkins

J. Micheal McBride

Mark Petrocchi

Stephen “Steve” Pezanosky

Jeff Prostok

Sharon Sherman

Robert A. Simon

Lindsay Steele

Behrooz Vida

BUSINESS/ COMMERCIAL

Chad Cacciotti

Ola Campbell

Tave Doty

Mark Dugan

Constance “Connie” Hall

Marshall Jacobini

Randall Johnson

John Lively Jr

William “Cade” Lovelace

Kathryn McGlinchey

Christopher Nezworski

Olyn Poole

Randall Schmidt

Brian Singleterry

CHILD SEX ABUSE

William “Aulstin” Gardiner

Gregory “Greg” Love

CIVIL LAW & LITIGATION

Daniel Aguilar

Robert Aldrich

Antonio Allen

Chad Allman

Anna Alvarado

Michael Appleman

Brandy Austin

Gerald Bates

Hannah Bell

Jacob “Jake” Boyd

John Thomas Brender

J. Kirk Bryant

William L. Campbell

Jeremy “Heath” Coffman

11% of attorneys in Tarrant County work in corporate or in-house counsel.

Source: State Bar of Texas

Hugh Connor ll

Monika Cooper

Larry Cotten

Kelly Curnutt

David “Brad” B. Dowell

Laura Elkind

Zachary “Zac” Farrar

Donald Ferrill

Dusty Fillmore lll

Kyle Fonville

Douglas “Doug” Hafer

Alyson Halpern

Bruce L. James

Kaitlin Kerr

Koy Killen

Kelly Knotts

Brant Martin

Hunter T. McLean

Jerold Mitchell

Shayne Moses

Brian Newby

Shane O’Dell

Jordan Parker

Michael L. Peck

Lu Pham

Zakary “Zak” Presley

David Pritchard

Christopher “Chris”

Pruitt

Jerrod Rinehart

Lynn Rossi Scott

Jay Rutherford

Thomas Ryder

Roland “Rollie” Philip Schafer

James “Jim” Scott

Marshall Searcy

Morris Sheats ll

Patrick Sheridan

Dan Steppick

Mack Ed Swindle

Paul J. Vitanza

Scott Wert

Eamonn Wiles

CIVIL LAW, TRANSACTIONAL

Charles “Charlie” Florsheim

Adam Fulkerson

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

Geffrey Anderson

Michael D. Anderson

Jason “Chad” Arnette

Mary Barkley

Whitney Beckworth

Lars Berg

Grant Blaies

Bill Bredthauer

Bryan Bruner

Gina Bruner

Caleb Bulls

Vincent “Vinny” Circelli

Anneke Cronje

Anthony Cuesta

Elizabeth Cuneo

Thomas

Randal Dean

Christian S. Dennie

Russell Devenport

David Jacob Drez III

Ralph Duggins lll

John Easter

Paul Elkins

Christian Ellis

Jacob Fain

Charles “Chad” W. Fillmore

Walker Friedman

Matthew Fronda

Jeff Gilmore

Kate Hancock

Albon Head Jr.

Dee J. Kelly Jr.

Meredith Knudsen

William “Butch” R. Korb

Jeffrey “Jeff” A. Lacy

Daniel “Luke” McMahan

Matthew Meyer

Preston Mundt

Christopher “Chris” Neal

David Palmer

Schyler Parker

Adam Plumbley

Joseph Regan

Brittani Rollen

Andrew “Andy” Sims

Johan “Joakim” Soederbaum

Mark W. Stout

Stephen Taylor

John Thompson III

Jeffrey Tillman Jr.

Len Allen Wade

William “Bill” Nolan Warren

Laura Warrick

Scott Wiehle

Thomas Williams

Shauna Wright

CONSTRUCTION

E. Aaron Cartwright III

Ed Cox

James Gordon

Stephanie Harrison

Michael Hassett

Matthew “Matt” Motes

Tom Myers

Andrew Piel

Brad Rice

Joe Tolbert

CORPORATE COUNSEL

Jonathan Heathman

Joseph P. Regan Partner

Adam L. Plumbley Partner

Jay K. Rutherford Partner

Len A. Wade Partner

Chelsea T. Wood Partner

Ginger M. Webber Partner

Jarrod Cone Senior Counsel

Brittani Rollen Of Counsel

Joel W. Heydenburk Partner

Albon O. Head Partner

Evan M. Malloy Partner Travis W. McNellie Partner

Brett M. Epstein Associate

Taylor Cummins Associate

Jeffrey R. Gilmore Associate

Kayla Matus Associate

L to R: Seth McCloskey and Steven C. Laird

Both attorneys are Board Certified in Personal Injury Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and Truck Accident Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

Steve Laird and Seth McCloskey are 2 of only 8 lawyers in Texas to achieve Board Certification in Truck Accident Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA).*

Steve Laird is the only Tarrant County Personal Injury Lawyer to be recognized as ONE of the Top 100 Super Lawyers** (out of 100,000 Lawyers in the state of Texas) for 16 out of the last 17 years (2005-2013, 2015-2022). He also maintains the highest AV Rating for lawyers by Martindale-Hubbell and has an AVVO Rating of 10.0; Superb.

*Board Certification in Truck Accident Law

21% of Tarrant County attorneys are graduates of Texas A&M Law School. 12% went to UT Law School, and 11% are graduates of SMU and Texas Tech. The largest share are out-of-state grads, 23%.

Source: State Bar of Texas

Punam Kaji

Noelle Leclair Garsek

Andrew Lombardi

Andrea Palmer

Michael “Chad”

Parsons

Robert “Robby” Reeb

Allison Schluckebier

Ricky Torlincasi

Craig Woodcook

CORPORATE FINANCE/ MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

Christopher Baker

Brian Barnard

Paul Bradford

Doug Clayton

David W. Cook

Clinton “Clint” Dennis

Gavin Fearey

William Greenhill

Janet Hahn

Justin Hoover

Robert Keffler

David E. Kelley II

Evan Malloy

Kayla Matus

Charles Milliken

Michael Moan

Mitchell Moses

James “Drew” Neill

Lisa Ann Peterson

John Phair

Brandon “Scot” Pierce

Vernon Rew Jr.

Andrew Rosell

Jarratt Watkins

Stephen Westermann

Wesley Williams

Chelsea T. Wood

CRIMINAL

Bruce Ashworth

Steven Baker

Wessley “Wes” Ball

Brandon Barnett

Bruce Beasley

Lanny Begley

Pamela Boggess

Brian Bolton

Miles Brissette

Blake Burns

Kara Carreras

Virginia Carter

Cody Cofer

Mimi Coffey

Chris D. Collins

Daniel Collins

Craig Dameron

Mark Daniel

Nicholas “Nick” Davis

Andrew Deegan

Steven Ditommaso

Tanya Dohoney

Brian Eppes

Lance Taylor Evans

Dawn Ferguson

Taylor Ferguson

Jackson “Brandon” Fulgham

Steve Gebhardt

Cami Gildner

Robert “Bob” Gill

Ashley Gilmore

Steve Gordon

William “Brian” Goza

Brock Groom

Phillip Hall

Stephen Handy

Mike Heiskell

Daniel Hernandez

Francisco Hernandez

Lisa Herrick

Bryan Hoeller

Jeff Hoover

Jason Howard

Robert Huseman

Elizabeth “Christy”

Jack

Jeff Kearney

Tracie Kenan

Kimberly Knapp

William A. Knight

Emily LaChance

Christopher Lankford

Landon Loker

Julie Lugo

James Luster

Letty Martinez

Chelsi McLarty

Colin McLaughlin

Gary Medlin

Mitch Monthie

Kyle Morris

Thomas Murphree

Eric Nickols

Graham Norris

Dinah O’Neal

G. Andrew “Andy” Platt

Brian D. Poe

Paul Previte

Paul Micheal

Schneider

Harmony Schuerman

Justin Chance Smith

Justin Sparks

Anna Summersett

Rebeccah Tejada

Samuel R. Terry

Jessica Theriot

Alex Thornton

Dorys Tijerina

Dustin Trammel

Lindsay Truly

Benson Varghese

Veronica Veyhl

Harry White

are proud to

FAMILY LAW IS NOT ONLY WHAT WE DO. IT’S ALL WE DO.

As one of the largest family law firms in Texas, KoonsFuller Family Law offers our clients a level of legal representation and a range of resources that is unmatched by any other family law firm right here in the Fort Worth area. We have an office with seven experienced attorneys—four of whom are board certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization—that has been established in Southlake for almost twenty-five years. Our attorneys, who are no strangers to the Tarrant, Denton and Dallas Counties and the surrounding area, are experienced and equipped to handle estates of all sizes and all kinds of custody issues. Whether your case calls for informal negotiations, mediation, collaborative law or court proceedings, KoonsFuller’s Southlake office is who you need in your corner. To learn more about KoonsFuller, please visit koonsfuller.com

DALLAS** | 1717 McKinney Avenue, Suite 1500 | Dallas, Texas 75202 | 214.871.2727

DENTON | 320 West Eagle Drive, Suite 200 | Denton, Texas 76201 | 940.442.6677

PLANO | 5700 W. Plano Parkway, Suite 2200 | Plano, Texas 75093 | 972.769.2727

SOUTHLAKE | 550 Reserve Street, Suite 450 | Southlake, Texas 76092 | 817.481.2710

*Board certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. **Principal office.

Heather King

Jessica Janicek

Rob McEwan

Dana Manry

Drew Williamson

Courtney Walker

Over the past 10 years, the number of active

Tarrant County attorneys has increased by 20%, from 4,643 attorneys in 2010 to 5,555 in 2020.

Source: State Bar of Texas

Luke Williams

Bryan E. Wilson

Katie Woods

Boggeman

Fiona Worthy

ELDER LAW

Monica Benson

Dana Zachary

FAMILY

Laura Alexander

Katherine Allen

Andrew Anderson

Barbara Armstrong

Leslie Barrows

Stephanie Beamer

Kathleen “Katie” Berry

Kaye Lynne Boll

Max Brewington

Kimberly Butler

Jennifer Caldwell

Kristen Carr Mullins

Nicole Carroll

Mark Childress

Ali Crocker Russell

Anita Cutrer

Lori Dally

Paul Daly

Ami Decker

Kelly Decker

Lauren Duffer

Rashelle Fetty

Stephanie Foster

Jane Fowler

Louis “Bodie”

Freeman III

Crystal L. Gayden

Alexis Gebhardt

Kayla Gertsch

Wade Griffin

Vicki Hafer

Courtney Harbaugh

Walker

Ryan Hardy

Kayla E. Harrington

Desiree Hartwigsen

Nathan Hatton

Tom E. Hill

Robert D. Hoover

Lisa Hoppes

Taryn Horton

Elizabeth “Brooke” Hubbard

Jessica Janicek

Jeffrey “Jeff” Johnson

Jill Johnston

Kevin Jones

Brandon Joseph

Tracey Justice

Heather King

David Kulesz

Mark Lane

Brenna Loyd

Sean Lynch

Dana Manry

Kelly McClure

Robert “Rob” McEwan

Janine McGill

Brent McMullen

Larry Mike

Lynne Milford

Constance Mims

Blakely Mohr

Tyler Monahan

Michael Munoz

Kimberly “Kim” Naylor

Stephen “Steve” J. Naylor

Lyndsay Newell

Brian J. Newman

Christopher “Chris” Nickelson

Gary Nickelson

Jeffrey “Spencer” Nilsson

Elizabeth Parmer

Jessica Phillips

Alison Porterfield

Lauren Powell

Richard “Dick” Price

Shannon Pritchard

Danielle Reagan

Sarah Robbins

Stephanie SabelhausVillaman

Kevin Schmid

Sarah Seltzer

Jill Setzer

Justin J. Sisemore

Dwayne Smith

Kate Smith

Lori Spearman

Keith Spencer

Melissa Korene Swan

Carrie Tapia

Chrissy Tefera

Anna Teller

Donald “Don” Teller Jr.

Jeffrey Turner

Thornton

Whitney Vaughan

G. Thomas “Tom” Vick Jr.

Daniel Webb

Kyle Whitaker

Dana White

Drew Williamson

Dena Wilson

Samantha Wommack

David Wynne

Paul Youngblood

HEALTH

Kate Mataya

Wayne Whitaker

IMMIGRATION

Jason Mills

Margarita Morton

Anderson & riddle, ll P Fort Worth A RESPECTED TEAM

Geffrey Anderson and Guy Riddle work to achieve goals for clients of all sizes, from individuals to major corporations. Anderson and Riddle lead the firm of Anderson & Riddle, LLP, a civil trial and appellate firm with its office in Fort Worth. The firm’s attorneys represent clients in Texas and other states. The honors bestowed on the members of the firm by their peers in the Texas Lawyer, and other publications, reflect the firm’s depth of talent. The fact that other clients confirm the firm’s reputation for excellent work. The firm’s straightforward approach to litigation produces results, and the lawyers’ collegiality and professionalism allow for quick resolution of most cases. If an agreement cannot be reached, each lawyer maintains the courage to perform under fire and thoroughly present the dispute to the jury. This combination of common sense and talent sets the firm apart.

Geffrey W. “Geff” Anderson selected to 2010-2022 Super Lawyers; 2005, 2008 Rising Stars; Top Attorney in Fort Worth, Fort Worth Magazine (2012-2022; Guy H. Riddle selected to 2011-2022 Super Lawyers; 2010 Rising Stars; Top Attorney in Fort Worth, Fort Worth Magazine (2003, 2010-2022); Jonathan W. “Jon” Harrison selected to 2021-2022 Super Lawyers; 2012-2020 Rising Stars; Top Attorney in Fort Worth, Fort Worth Magazine (2021-2022); Trey Gordon Top Attorney in Fort Worth, Fort Worth Magazine (2021).

Seated (L to R); Rachel Barr, Kristin Newman, Megan McKenna and Shannon Dugan

Standing (L to R): John Gunter Barber, Jonathan W. “Jon” Harrison, Geffrey W. “Geff” Anderson, Guy H. Riddle, James “Jim” Kiser, and Trey Gordon

(Left to Right, Page 1, Standing) R. Mark Oliver, Alyssa A. Jacobs, Bryan J. Berens, Jessica L. Francis, Michael L. Forman (Left to Right, Page 1, Sitting) Bradleigh J. Lipscomb, Tristan L. Watson, Chandler O. Olson, S. Kyle Voss (Left to Right, Page 2, Standing) Christopher J. Pruitt, Andrew L. Wambsganss, Hannah

Orand, Randal L. Dean, Shelli A. Harveson, Eric C. Freeby (Left to Right, Page 2, Sitting) Daniel J. Paret, Misty M. Pratt, Tyler G. Scholes, Zachary S. Cate (Not pictured) Michael J. Moore and Christopher T. Nezworski

Melissa Wilks

Yadira Zepeda

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Carder Brooks

Decker A. Cammack

Joseph F. Cleveland Jr.

Clark Cowley

Scott Fredricks

Dave R. Gunter

Charles D. Gunter Jr.

Lee Hunt

Cheryl Leb

Stephen S. Mosher

Enrique “Rick” Sanchez Jr.

Richard “Rocky” Schwartz

David A. Skeels

Jon Suder

Juan Vasquez

Brian K. Yost

LABOR & EMPLOYMENTEMPLOYEE

Zoleta “Zoe” Courtney

Susan Hutchison

Chris Medlenka

Rod Tanner

Jonathan “Jack” Walters

LABOR & EMPLOYMENTEMPLOYER

Thomas “Tom” S.

Brandon Jr.

Russell Cawyer

Karen Denney

Laura Hilton Hallmon

Caroline Harrison

Michael Hutchens

Claudine Jackson

Vianei Lopez Braun

Justin Malone

Andrea Paris

Amanda Roark

Julie Ross

Harrison Smith

LAND USE & ENVIRONMENT

Joseph Ray Oujesky

MEDICAL MALPRACTICEDEFENSE

Jennifer “Jenny”

Andrews

Gregory “Greg” Blaies

MEDICAL MALPRACTICEPLAINTIFF

John Cummings

Darrell Keith MOVING VIOLATIONS

Andrew Hawkins Sommer Walker

Bonnie Wolf

NONPROFIT LAW

Darren Moore

Dana Stayton

Kristina Denapolis West

OIL & GAS

William “Cole” Bredthauer

Eric Camp

Bob Grable

Jeffrey Robert Grable

Timothy “Tim” Howell

Raymond Kelly III

Jeffrey C. King

Michael Malone

Timothy Malone

Mark Matula

Terry McClure

Michael “Mike” J. Moore

Andrew Neal

John Hunter Parrish

Nirav N. Patel

Clark Rucker

Bart Rue

Brian Smith

Rick Sorenson

Todd Spake

Taylor Spalla

PERSONAL INJURYDEFENSE

Daniel “Dan” Bates

Henri Dussault

David Frisby

Wesley Hightower

Emily Hollenbeck

Sandra “Sandy” Liser

April Robbins

Jackie Robinson

James Watson

PERSONAL INJURYPLAINTIFF

Seth Anderson

Wade Barrow

Rickey Brantley

Arthur “Art” Brender

Gene Burkett

Rieker Carsey

Dwain Dent

H.David Flowers

Mark Frenkel

Scott Frenkel

Elizabeth Haslam

Robert “Bob” Haslam

Whitaker Chalk’s Top Attorneys who are experts in IP Protection & Disputes

Jake Boyd

Thomas Brandon

Kirk Bryant

Decker Cammack

John Allen Chalk

Clark Cowley

John Fahy

Dr. Donald Ferrill

H. David Flowers

Charles Gunter SL Tom Harkins

Michael Hutchens

Hunter McLean

Stephen Mosher

Enrique “Rick” Sanchez

Timothy Harvard

E. Brooke Hubbard

Bruce James

Michael Kaitcer BL

Bruce McGee

B. Scot Pierce

Vernon Rew Jr.

Robert Simon BL

Richard “Rocky” Schwartz BL

W. Brent Shellhorse

David Skeels SL

Brian Smith

Mack Ed Swindle BL SL

Juan Vasquez

Melinda Watts Smith

Robert “Bob” West SL

Wayne Whitaker SL

37% of attorneys, more than 2,000, in Tarrant County have been licensed for more than 25 years.

Source: State Bar of Texas

Dale Heisch

Travis Heller

Michael “Mike” J.

Henry

Robert Henry

Kolter Jennings

John Jose

Steven C. Laird

Jesse Lotspeich

J. Kent McAfee

Rachel Montes

Richard “Bruce” Moon

Bradley “Brad” Parker

Travis Patterson

Alex Pelley

Anthony “Tony” Pettitt

John “Tony” A.

Ross Jr.

Mattilyn Smith

Jason Stephens

Ty Stimpson

Christopher Stoy

Tennessee Walker

Roger “Rocky” Walton

Rickey “Rick” Ward

Natherral “Nate”

Washington

Ben Westbrook

Coby Wooten

Jim Zadeh

PROBATE, ESTATES, TRUST

Jason Amon

David Bakutis

S. Brook Bell

Craig A. Bishop

Marvin Blum

Antionette Bone

Natalie Brackett

Daniel “Dan” Cherkassky

Mark Cochran

Kandice Damiano

Lindsay Daniel

James Davidson

Matthew “Matt”

Davidson

Kelly DeBerry

Ellen Dickerson

Beth Edwards

Tena Fox

Stephen Franscini

Darla Gabbitas

Robert Gieb

Catherine Goodman

Ross Griffith

Chandler Grisham

Michael Grover

Shannon Guthrie

Laura Haley

Beth Hampton

Shelli Harveson

C. Ryan Heath

Thomas J. Henry

Amanda Holliday

James W. Holliday

John Hunter

Lisa Jamieson

David Johnson

Michael Kaitcer

Steve Katten

Andrew Lewis

Ann Lopez

Robert “Bob” L.

Loudermilk

Jennifer Lovelace

Mark Maples

Dan McCarthy

Phillip “Phil” McCrury

R. Dyann McCully

Paula Moore

Scott Moseley

Jeff Myers

Katey Powell Stimek

James Ravsten

Rachel Saltsman

Joel Sawyer

Louis Stefanos

Aimee Stone

Karen Telschow

Johnson

Leslie Thomas

Melinda Watts Smith

Richard “Rick” Weaver

Corey D. Williams

Shawna Young

PRODUCT LIABILITY

Grant Liser

PUBLIC FINANCE

Jonathan Cranz

Tim Harvard

REAL ESTATE

Kendall “Ken” D. Adair

Donald “Prichard”

Bevis Jr.

Mark Bishop

Veronica Chavez Law

Jarrod Cone

Richard DeBerry

Brett Epstein

Luis A. Galindo

Zachary M. Garsek

Robert Ginsburg

Michael Goodrich

Bryon Hammer

Alan Hegi

Joel Heydenburk

Brandon Hill

John Charles “JC” Johnson

Paul Johnson

Chad Key

Jared King

William “Bill” D. Kuhlmann Jr.

Kris Landrith

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For over 20 years, we’ve had our ears to the ground, our eyes on the ball, and our fingers on the pulse of Fort Worth. This gives us an edge to deliver the city’s best lifestyle, business, and home content. Don’t miss out on anything Fort Worth. Subscribe now.

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The Tarrant County Criminal District Attorney’s Office was the first district attorney’s office in the state to be named a “Recognized Law Enforcement Agency” by the Texas Police Chiefs Association Foundation.

Source: Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office

Lisa Leaton

Matthew Luensmann

Travis McNellie

Patricia “Pati”

Meadows

Sharon Millians

Gary Moates

Caleb Moore

George Muckleroy

Peter Nguyen

Russell Norment

Jeremy Pruett

Kylie Rahl

Jeffrey Rattikin

Donald “Don” Reid

Brian Restivo

Kenneth Stogdill

John Bennett “J.B.”

Strong

Beth Thurman

Thomas “Tom” Turet

J. Jody Walker

Hannah Watkins

Ginger Webber

Robert “Bob” G. West

Dan White

Rafael Ylanan

SECURITIES

John Fahy

Toby Galloway

Cal Jackson

Matthias Kleinsasser

Jamie Lacy

TAX

Michael Bourland

Elizabeth Brooks

Sean Bryan

James Creel

Brandon S. Jones

Jordan Stimpson

Len Woodard ll

LESS THAN FIVE YEARS IN PRACTICE

ADMINISTRATIVE

Lauren Azopardi

CIVIL LAW & LITIGATION

Taylor Ellison

Christina Russo

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

Cash Barker

CONSTRUCTION

Bryan Kelly

CORPORATE FINANCE/ MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

Jarrod Azopardi

Gabriella Snow

CRIMINAL

Francisco Balderrama

Erika Flores

FAMILY

Cory Bennett

Tanner Breed

J. Trevor Cantrell

Callie Cole Dodson

Brianda Curry

Kristie Falbo

Konnor Lee

Scott Prescher

Matthew Towson

Sara Vargas

Samantha Ybarra

IMMIGRATION

Rigien BagekanyJackson

Lisa McBee

LABOR & EMPLOYMENTEMPLOYER

Spencer Mainka

PERSONAL INJURYPLAINTIFF

Matthew Aulsbrook

PROBATE, ESTATES, TRUST

Danielle DeFranco

SECURITIES

Taylor Cummins

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Owned and operated by former Fort Worth residents, Erica and David Fisher

WINSTEAD – FORT WORTH OFFICE SHARED VISION, LOCAL EXPERIENCE & MOMENTUM FOR THE FUTURE

Congratulations to the “Top Attorneys” Listed in Fort Worth Magazine

We know Fort Worth, our attorneys have lived here for generations and are actively involved in giving back to the community. Texas is our home, and has been for almost 50 years.

We work as a trusted partner and focus on listening to your needs, understanding your business and exceeding your expectations on every file, every day, by providing creative, practical and digestible solutions to your business opportunities and challenges. We are Winstead.

Jarrod Azopardi

Fort Worth Magazine

Top Attorney

Matthew Bone

Nick Curley

Tave Doty

Fort Worth Magazine

Top Attorney

Michael D. Duran

Gavin Fearey

Fort Worth Magazine Top Attorney

Charlie Florsheim

Fort Worth Magazine Top Attorney

Toby M. Galloway

Fort Worth Magazine

Top Attorney

FOCUS

Attorneys to Know

They stand by us through some of life’s more memorable moments. They guide us through everything from an adoption to starting a company. They are some of Greater Fort Worth’s brightest, most-sought-after professionals, and they want to tell you how hiring them will benefit you.

The information in this section is provided by the advertisers and has not been independently verified by Fort Worth Magazine.

Blaies & Hightower, L.L.P.

SPECIALTY: Our firm is primarily a civil litigation boutique. However, within the litigation field, we practice in a diverse mix of areas ranging from medical malpractice, personal injury, and trucking lawsuits to complex business litigation, employment law, and professional liability. We also provide outside general counsel services to advise and counsel clients on ways to avoid becoming our litigation clients. AWARDS/HONORS: Among our attorneys are several attorneys who have repeatedly been named Top Attorneys in Fort Worth and Texas Super Lawyers, numerous attorneys who served on the law reviews of their respective law schools and graduated from law school with

high honors, and every single partner in the firm has an AV peer review rating from Martindale Hubble. MEMBERSHIPS/ AFFILIATIONS: Texas Bar Foundation; Texas Association of Defense Counsel; Defense Research Institute; and Eldon B. Mahon Inns of Court, as well as many other professional associations. FIRM’S GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Our greatest professional achievement has been maintaining a strong relationship with many clients for the entirety of the two decades we’ve been in business. We have a very loyal and longstanding group of clients whom we have served well, both inside and outside of the courtroom. Keeping those clients

happy for over 20 years is our greatest professional achievement.

APPROACH TO LAW: We strive to provide high-quality legal services with a personalized approach to our clients’ legal needs. WHAT SETS THEM APART: Our ability to successfully and efficiently assist our clients due to our experience, intellect, and personal dedication to doing what is best for the client. FREE

ADVICE: Hire a lawyer you can trust to do what’s in your best interest. PICTURED: Greg Blaies, Wes Hightower, Grant Blaies, Wes Myers, Andrew Etter, Chase Price, Greg Gober, Jennifer Litke, Jim Hryekewicz, Kyler Cruz, Nicole Hogan, Brian Garrett, and Stefan Garcia.

Blaies & Hightower, L.L.P. 420 Throckmorton St., Ste. 1200 Fort Worth, Texas 76102

817.334.0800 • 817.334.0574 bhilaw.com info@bhilaw.com

Law

Offices of Mark M. Childress

SPECIALTY: Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody. AWARDS/ HONORS: Top Attorneys; Texas Monthly Super Lawyers - Rising Stars; Expertise Best Divorce Lawyers in Fort Worth. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS/ASSOCIATIONS: Tarrant County Bar Association; American Bar Association. PROFESSIONAL APPROACH: Our team is led by knowledgeable attorneys who are ready to help you identify your goals and create a strategy for achieving them. We are prepared to go the distance to make sure you receive the best possible

outcome for you and your children. WHAT SETS THEM APART: We are a firm that prepares each case for every possible twist and turn to make sure that we are able to serve our clients’ interests. Whether your case can be settled amicably or it is in your best interest to go to trial, our attorneys will be your strongest advocates every step of the way. PICTURED: Amie Wilson, Sarah Robbins, Brenda Colon, Melissa Hernandez, Mark Childress, Desiree Hartwigsen, Jordan Alvarez, Tiffany Washington, Kristie Falbo, and Rick Mitchell.

FOCUS ATTORNEYS TO KNOW

FOCUS: The firm focuses on personal injury cases, commercial vehicle cases, 18-wheeler, rideshare, and delivery vehicles. We also handle car and motorcycle wrecks and cases involving dangerous/ defective drugs and/or products, such as automotive defects and medical devices. AWARDS/HONORS:

Scott Frenkel – Best Lawyers in Dallas, D Magazine 2007-2022; Texas Super Lawyer, a Thomson Reuters publication, 2011-2022; Best Lawyers in Fort Worth, 2017-2020; Million Dollar Advocates Forum & MultiMillion Dollar Advocates Forum; member, Texas Bar College. Mark Frenkel – past president, Dallas Trial Lawyers Association; Best Lawyers in Dallas, D Magazine, 2009-2022; Texas Super Lawyer, a Thomson Reuters publication, 2014-2018; Million Dollar Advocates Forum & Multi- Million Dollar Advocates Forum. Gene Burkett – Best Lawyers in Dallas, D Magazine, 2015-2022; Best Lawyers in Fort Worth, 2017-2022; Texas Super Lawyer 2020-2022, a Thomson Reuters publication, Million Dollar Advocates Forum & Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum; member, Texas Bar College. Addison Magazine readers voted Frenkel & Frenkel their favorite law firm, 2013-2022. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL

ACCOMPLISHMENT: Creating this firm has helped tens of thousands of individuals in their time of need. Daily, we give our clients the ability to take on any adversary. We will not be outworked, and we have the resources to take on any adversary. WHAT SETS THEM APART: We can handle and fund any size case; employ advanced techniques learned over 25+ years; and stay at the front of technology useful in presenting our clients’ cases. Our experience on the defense side of the docket gives us insight into how the opposition works. APPROACH TO LAW: Clients first; results oriented. We hold careless and negligent companies and individuals accountable for their actions. Having been practicing in Texas for over a quarter of a century, insurance companies and defense lawyers know we fight vigorously to get our clients what they deserve. MOTTO: Integrity. Safety. Results. FREE ADVICE: If you’ve been in a wreck, call us immediately. The other side is not there to help you. They are there to get your claim settled as inexpensively and quickly as possible. PICTURED: Scott B. Frenkel (Partner), H. Gene Burkett (Partner), and Mark D. Frenkel (Partner). NOT PICTURED: Jason L. Boorstein (Associate), David I. Adest (Associate), Aaron C. Spahr (Associate), Joshua A. Cohen (Associate), Carlos A. Fernandez (Associate), Shawn Thompson (Associate), Brett Baker (Associate), Andrew M. Gross, MD, JD (Of Counsel).

Frenkel & Frenkel

Frenkel & Frenkel

12700 Park Central Drive, Ste. 1900 • Dallas, Texas 75251

817.222.2222 • 214.333.3333

Fax 214.265.9360

TruckWreck.com

Greg Jackson Law

SPECIALTY: Personal injury (automobile/trucking accidents; medical malpractice; workplace injuries; boating accidents; slips, trips and falls; dog bites; brain injuries; defective products; cycling/pedestrian injuries; etc.).

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS: Baylor University, BBA, 1994; Baylor University School of Law, J.D., 1995; Board Certified, Personal Injury Trial Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization, 2001-present. AWARDS/HONORS: Outstanding Young Lawyer of Tarrant County, 2006; Baylor Young Lawyer of the Year, 2005; AV Peer Review Rating, 2005-present; Texas Super Lawyer, 2009-2012, 2014-present. MEMBERSHIPS/AFFILIATIONS: State Bar of Texas, Tarrant County Bar Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Association, American Bar Association, Texas Bar Foundation, Tarrant County Bar Foundation, Sister Cities International, and Fort Worth Sister Cities International. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Board certification after only six years of practice. WHY HE CHOSE THE LEGAL FIELD: I wanted to fight for those unable to fight for themselves. APPROACH TO LAW: Take care of clients like they are family, fight for their rights to the limit of the law, conduct myself in a professional manner so as to bring honor to the legal profession. FREE ADVICE: Go to the hospital or see your doctor as soon as possible after an injury, even if you think the injury is minor. The injury may turn out to be more serious than you thought. Not seeing a health care provider early can be used against you later in the claims process. PICTURED: Greg Jackson.

Greg Jackson Law

201 Main St., Ste. 600 Fort Worth, Texas 76102

817.926.1003

Fax 817.886.3653 gjackson@gregjacksonlaw.com gregjacksonlaw.com

FOCUS ATTORNEYS TO KNOW

SPECIALTY: Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP is a national law firm with a practice dedicated to the collection of delinquent government receivables. For over 46 years, Linebarger has been providing customized collection programs for its public sector clientele. Its services allow clients to spend more of their time and limited resources on providing the core services their constituents expect, while avoiding unnecessary tax increases and cuts to essential public services. EDUCATION: Jordan Rolfe Stimpson studied journalism, business, and Spanish and received her Bachelor of Arts from Southern Methodist University. Jordan obtained her law degree from the University of Houston Law Center. AWARDS/HONORS: Top Attorney award recipient in

past years. MEMBERSHIPS: Jordan has dedicated her time and attention to numerous organizations in Fort Worth including The Eldon B. Mahon American Inn of Court, Tarrant County Bar Association, L. Clifford Davis Legal Association, Texas Bar College, Genesis Women’s Shelter, Project 4031, Junior League of Fort Worth, and Junior Women’s Club of Fort Worth, among many other organizations. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS: With over 2,500 clients being represented from offices located coast to coast, Linebarger is a recognized leader in the collection industry. The firm currently manages more than $10 billion in delinquent accounts receivable for its public sector clientele. The revenue recovered helps clients avoid unnecessary tax increases

and cuts to vital services. APPROACH TO LAW: The law firm listens and continually adapts to clients’ changing needs to ensure that it’s providing the best possible customer service while delivering customized comprehensive collection programs and legal services that yield the best possible results. WHAT SETS THEM APART: Linebarger has successfully merged the practice of law with the business of collections and advanced technology to create a unique service offering. The result has been the recovery of billions of dollars in additional revenue for government clients. PICTURED: Jake Battenfield, Dallan Johnson, Glenn O. Lewis, Barbara M. Williams, C. Corey Fickes, Jordan Rolfe Stimpson, Mario Perez, and Charles Brady. Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP

100 Throckmorton St., Ste. 1700

Fort Worth, Texas 76102

817.877.4589 lgbs.com jordan.stimpson@lgbs.com

Law Office of Gary L. Nickelson

CONCENTRATION: The firm is uniquely qualified to handle the most complicated matrimonial cases in trial or appellate courts throughout Texas.

CERTIFICATION: Gary L. Nickelson is board-certified in Family Law through the State Bar of Texas. Chris Nickelson is board-certified in Family Law and Civil Appellate Law through the State Bar of Texas.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Gary has been the chair of the Family Law Section of the State Bar, president of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers – both the Texas Chapter and national organization and is a former director of the State Bar of Texas. He is also a diplomate in The American College of Family Trial Lawyers, which is by invitation only and limited to 100 Family Law attorneys nationwide. Chris is past president of the Tarrant County Bar Association, Appellate Section, and is a past chair of the Family Law Section of the State Bar. Father and son are frequent authors and lecturers for the State Bar and other organizations. HONORS: Gary holds many prestigious awards and has been named a “Texas Super Lawyer,” a Thomson Reuters business, as published in Texas Monthly magazine since 2003. Chris has been named as “Texas Super Lawyer,” a Thomson Reuters business, in the Super Lawyer issue published in Texas Monthly since 2014. Gary and Chris have won the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Texas’ highest and most prestigious award, The Dan Price Award, in 2003 and 2013, respectively. EXPERIENCE: Gary has handled family law cases exclusively over 40 years. His experience allows him to handle all types of family law cases throughout Texas. Chris, a 23-year attorney, clerked in El Paso Court of Appeals, appeared as an attorney in many of the appellate courts in Texas, and is an accomplished family and appellate law attorney.

Law Office of Gary L. Nickelson

5201 W. Freeway, Ste. 100 • Fort Worth, Texas 76107

817.735.4000 • Fax 817.735.1480 garynickelson.com

Bank of Texas

SPECIALTY: Trust, Estate, and Fiduciary Services. PROFESSIONAL MISSION: We seek to develop long-term, meaningful relationships by providing personalized, discrete management of trusts, estates, and fiduciary relationships, with a focus on the accumulation, preservation, and transfer of wealth. In addition to our Private Wealth group, Bank of Texas’ Disability and Elder Trust Solutions team of seasoned experts specializes in administration of court-created trusts, guardianships, and disability and special needs trusts. WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT THEM: Our Fort Worth Trust team includes four licensed attorneys who gained extensive experience in their respective practices before joining Bank of Texas. While we are backed by the strength and stability of BOK Financial, at Bank of Texas, our people are local. PICTURED: Lindsay Daniel, Louis Stefanos, and Shawna Young.

Bank of Texas

777 Main St., Ste. 3500 • Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Lindsay Daniel, J.D., VP/Trust Officer, ldaniel@bokf.com, 817.348.5714

Louis Stefanos, J.D., SVP/Team Lead, lstefanos@bokf.com, 817.302.4956

Shawna Young, J.D., VP/Trust Officer, Shawna.young@bokf.com, 817.348.5758

bankoftexas.com

ATTORNEYS TO KNOW

Barnett Howard & Williams PLLC

SPECIALTY: Criminal Defense; DWI Defense; Personal Injury; Family Law. AWARDS/ HONORS: Top Attorneys, Fort Worth Magazine (2013-2022); Super Lawyers (2020-2022); Super Lawyers Rising Stars (2014-2021); Top Attorneys, 360 West Magazine (2017-2022). MEMBERSHIPS: Million Dollar Advocates Forum, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Tarrant County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, National College of DUI Defense, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, and the Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association. WHAT SETS THEM APART: We take a very personal approach to all of our cases, whether criminal defense, personal injury, or family law. Our attorneys take the time to form impactful relationships with the clients we represent. FREE ADVICE: Express your concerns to your attorney at the earliest possible stage. A successful trial strategy is based on open and regular communication. PICTURED: Attorneys: Luke Williams, Brandon Barnett, Laura Alexander, Jesse Lotspeich, Jason Howard; (not pictured) Ashley Gilmore, Cami Gildner.

bhwlawfirm.com

info@bhwlawfirm.com

Law Office of Lauren L. Boysen, PLLC

SPECIALTY: Family Law. AWARDS/HONORS:

Fort Worth Magazine’s Women Who Forward Fort Worth and December 2022 Attorneys to Know; Fort Worth Magazine’s Top Attorneys 2020 – 2022; BBB Accredited. MEMBERSHIPS/ AFFILIATIONS: Member of the State Bar and American Bar Association, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Tarrant County Family Bar Association, Tarrant County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. PROFESSIONAL

APPROACH: It’s important to find a law firm that cares about you and your story. You shouldn’t just be another name on a list. Your story matters. When you trust us to take on your case and you become a part of our team, you’re not just another case for us — you matter. You should have a team that will fight for you relentlessly and without hesitation. “In a war, you need an army. Choose your soldiers wisely.”

– Lauren L. Boysen. PICTURED: (front) Lauren L. Boysen, Attorney; (back) Ana Rangel, Cindy Calzada, and Dondrae Nelson.

Law Office of Lauren L. Boysen, PLLC 1008 Macon St. Fort Worth, Texas 76102

817.768.6468 Fax 817.900.9137 lawofficelaurenboysen.com

SPECIALTY: Texas and Federal Criminal Defense. APPROACH TO LAW: Hard work makes a difference in every case. Some cases are won by dynamic courtroom performances. Others are won by meticulous investigation and mining of information. The common thread for success is work. Highly focused — expertly executed — work. WHAT SETS THEM APART: Cofer’s cross-examination is like a shiver of sharks surrounding the witness. Luster connects with clarity and sincerity that disarms even the most skeptical listener. Collins has an imposing presence that paradoxically puts jurors at ease. The sting of Boggess’ focused wit is paralyzing to the would-be-slippery State’s witness. Each attorney alone is an extraordinary talent. As a team, they inspire reverential respect mixed with fear and wonder. WHAT MOTIVATES THEM: Our protective instinct. When we shake hands or hug after we have agreed to defend a client, that client becomes “ours.” We cannot prevent every bad thing from happening. But we can ensure that the State or the government must fight their way through us to get to our clients. Without vicious defense of the criminally accused, law enforcement and prosecution will abrade our freedoms into dust. Our calling is to rage against the behemoth government engine of oppression. Victory is achieved by getting the best possible result for every client.

604 E. Fourth St., Ste. 101 Fort Worth, Texas 76102

682.777.3336

Fax 682.238.5577 coferluster.com

Cofer

Luster Law Firm, PC

James K. Luster, Cody L. Cofer, Daniel E. Collins, and Pamela A. Boggess

Cofer Luster Law Firm, PC

CONCENTRATION: DWI, Criminal Defense.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS: Baylor University, Texas Tech School of Law, Board-Certified in DWI by the NCDD. Training in SFST Practitioner, Instructor, and DRE (mini short) courses.

Borkenstein Technical Supervisor School for both drugs and alcohol, gas chromatography – Axion Analytical Labs. AWARDS/HONORS: Regent to the National College of DUI Defense; national speaker on DWI; five national articles published in The Champion; seven statewide articles in The Voice; author of Texas DWI Defense: The Law and Practice, now in its second edition; Texas Lawyer: 2015 Extraordinary Minorities in Texas Law. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS/AFFILIATIONS: NCDD, NACDL, TCDLA, TCCDLA, DCDLA, State Bar College, Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation. SPECIAL INTERESTS: “I love people. I love to help people. Everyone makes mistakes.” VOLUNTEER WORK/CHARITIES: Texas Tech School of Law Foundation Board, State Bar of Texas Jury Service Committee. EXPERIENCE: Twenty-seven years of experience with over 350-plus trials.

4700 Airport Freeway Fort Worth, Texas 76117

817.831.3100 Fax 817.831.3340 mimicoffey.com

The Coffey Firm

Mimi Coffey The Coffey Firm

Cotten Schmidt, LLP

FOCUS: Why are these men standing in a construction site? Because Cotten Schmidt, LLP is moving to new offices at 2900 City Center II in December 2022. Cotten Schmidt, LLP is also celebrating 30 years of practice this year. Founded in 1992, the firm has grown to 26 attorneys representing clients throughout Texas and Louisiana with offices in Fort Worth, The Woodlands, Corpus Christi, and New Orleans. Cotten Schmidt, LLP assists clients in virtually all areas of legal practice: trials in all courts, business and commercial transactions, estate planning and probate, real estate, and family law. We put our clients first, work with our clients at each step, keep our clients informed, and work hard to keep our fees reasonable and our clients happy. SPECIALTY: Commercial Transactions, Commercial Litigation, and Personal Injury Defense. AWARDS/HONORS: Randall Schmidt – Fort Worth Magazine Top Attorney 2020 - 2022; Marshall Jacobini – FWM Top Attorney 2017 - 2022; Jerold Mitchell – FWM Top Attorney 2015 - 2022, Super Lawyer-Rising Star 2019 - 2022; Andy Lewis – FWM Top Attorney 2021 - 2022; Larry Cotten – FWM Top Attorney 2021; Sean Lynch – FWM Top Attorney 2016 - 2022; Super Lawyer-Rising Star 2018 - 2020; Firm – Martindale AV Preeiminent. PICTURED: Andrew Lewis, Randall Schmidt, Larry Cotten, Jerold Mitchell, and Marshall Jacobini.

Cotten Schmidt, LLP

2900 City Center II 301 Commerce St. Fort Worth, Texas 76102 817.338.4500 cottenschmidt.com

SPECIALTY: State criminal cases, including DWI, assault, and drug crimes. Most cases are in Tarrant County, but Andrew Deegan also handles cases in many other counties across the state as well.

EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS: University of Mississippi School of Law, 2013; ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer Scientist 2017. AWARDS/HONORS: Super Lawyers Texas Rising Stars, 2020 – 2023. MEMBERSHIPS: Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. PROFESSIONAL MISSION: Andrew helps people resolve difficult situations and minimize the damage to all aspects of their lives. WHAT SETS HIM APART: Andrew prioritizes communication and building relationships over having a huge volume practice. He has a small law firm by design and doesn’t take on every case that comes through the door. His focus is centered on helping people, and he does that most effectively by learning the stories to better develop the defenses of the people that become clients. FREE ADVICE: “The million-dollar advice that I can give you free of charge is: Be nice, but don’t talk to the police. You are always being recorded.” PICTURED: Andrew Deegan.

Deegan, Attorney at Law 933 W. Weatherford St., Ste. 212 Fort Worth, Texas 76102 817.689.7002 andrewdeeganlaw.com andrew@andrewdeeganlaw.com

Andrew

Andrew Deegan, Attorney at Law

The Dent Law Firm

Dwain Dent

Alyssa Alfaro

CONCENTRATION: Wrongful death, pharmaceutical, insurance, and injury. EDUCATION: Dwain Dent – St. Mary’s School of Law and TCU undergraduate. Alyssa Alfaro – UNT Dallas College of Law and Trinity University undergraduate. REASON FOR BEING A LAWYER: He has a passion for fighting the giants, i.e., David versus Goliath. The law gives him an opportunity to help others. HISTORY: The Dent Law Firm, founded in 1990, has successfully represented thousands of clients in serious injury and death claims, claims against insurance companies, car wrecks, aviation, and other personal injury cases. HONORS: Recognized Trial Lawyer of the Year Finalist, Trial Lawyers for Public Justice Foundation, Washington, D.C., 2011; Preeminent Lawyers in America; Who’s Who in American Law; Million-Dollar Advocate Forum Member; voted “Top Attorney” in Fort Worth Magazine, 2003 - present; voted “Texas Super Lawyer” by Texas Monthly magazine every year since 2003; St. Mary’s Law School Distinguished Graduate, 2012; St. Mary’s Law School Hall of Fame, 2013; Recognized Best Lawyers in America; Board Certified Personal Injury State of Texas, National Board of Trial Advocacy. MOTTO: Represent clients with commitment, integrity, and professionalism. ADVICE: “Never assume an insurance company will do the right thing.” SERVICE: The Dent Law Firm is dedicated to service and committed to supporting the Texas community, both professionally and personally.

The Dent Law Firm

1120 Penn St. Fort Worth, Texas 76102

817.332.2889

thedentlawfirm@cs.com

thedentlawfirm.com

Dorsett

SPECIALTY: Real Estate; Business & Commercial; Liability Defense. AWARDS/HONORS: Lawyers of Distinction; Legal Elite, U.S. Business News; Super Lawyers; Board Certified by Texas Board of Legal Specialization; Texas Bar Foundation. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS:

The combination of making a positive impact on the wealth of our clients and enhancing the careers of our team members serves as our firm’s greatest professional achievements. MISSION: We “play to win” on behalf of our clients, as opposed to going through the motions. If the representation calls for guidance on a business transaction or complex litigation, our firm focuses on the goals of our clients to obtain positive outcomes. WHAT SETS THEM APART: We focus on our clients. We communicate with our clients. We take care of our clients. FREE ADVICE: Prior to having an immediate legal need, create a relationship with outside legal counsel as part of your business strategy. PICTURED: Fort Worth office attorneys (l to r) Victoria Cornett, Tricia Wachsmann, and Kasey Rachel (seated); Joseph Modric, Justin Broome, and J.C. Johnson (standing).

Dorsett Johnson, LLP

407 Throckmorton St., Ste. 500 Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Offices in Fort Worth, Dallas, Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Brownsville

817.900.8202

Fax 817.882.8526

dorsettJohnson.com jcjohnson@dorsettjohnson.com

Lance T. Evans

SPECIALTY: Criminal Defense in Federal, State, and Juvenile Courts. EDUCATION: Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 1998; Juris Doctor degree from Texas Tech School of Law, 1991.

AWARDS/HONORS: Fort Worth Magazine

Top Attorney (21 years); Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Rating (20 years); Texas Monthly Super Lawyers (20 years).

MEMBERSHIPS: Tarrant County Bar Association (president, 2018-19); Tarrant County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (president, 2001); Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Educational Institute (chair, 2016-2018); Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association; and National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. GREATEST

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Securing not guilty verdicts from juries for my clients in a variety of cases including driving while intoxicated, theft, felony assault, sex offenses, and distribution of a controlled substance.

MISSION: Our mission is to zealously defend our clients’ rights and interests while guiding them through the most difficult period in their lives. WHAT SETS THEM APART: The attention we give to individual clients. FREE ADVICE: Consult with an attorney before speaking with law enforcement. It sounds easy, but not many people do so, sometimes to their great regret.

PICTURED: Lance Evans.

Daniel, Moore, Evans, Biggs, Decker and Smid (not a partnership)

Bank of America Tower

301 Commerce, Ste. 2001

Fort Worth, Texas 76107

817.332.3822

egdmlaw.com/team/lance-t-evans lanceevans@egdmlaw.com

SPECIALTY: Criminal Defense. EDUCATION: SMU Dedman School of Law. MEMBERSHIPS/ AFFILIATIONS: Tarrant County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. APPROACH TO LAW: Focused, vigorous defense. WHAT SETS THEM APART: Steve Gordon & Associates is a small firm that provides individualized, compassionate, zealous defense strategies. FREE ADVICE: Don’t talk to police. PICTURED: Steve Gordon.

Steve Gordon & Associates 2101 Moneda St. Fort Worth, Texas 76117

817.877.0610

stevegordandassociates.com info@stevegordonandassociates.com

Steve Gordon & Associates

ATTORNEYS TO KNOW

Hillwood

Don Reid, Executive Vice President, Legal

SPECIALTY: Commercial Real Estate. EDUCATION: Don Reid – Bachelor of Business Administration and J.D. from the University of Texas at Austin. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Whether during my tenure at Hillwood or as an attorney at a law firm, each matter I negotiate is viewed as an important one for my client and my team. When my client is satisfied with my legal service and the results obtained, I am proud. PROFESSIONAL MISSION: As general counsel at Hillwood, our legal department views our associates as our clients. Our mission is to provide excellent legal service, as well as good business judgment, for each of our clients. WHAT SETS HIM APART: I am in a unique position to be consulted on practically every aspect of the real estate industry. I am blessed to work for an ownership group that is creative, innovative, and thoughtful, and that allows me to be involved in so many lines of business and legal matters. FREE ADVICE: Keep learning! One of the most important factors in continuing to enjoy the practice of law is to learn new areas of practice. I am fortunate to have been given so many opportunities over the years at Hillwood to do so. PICTURED: Don Reid and Erin Rush, Associate General Counsel.

9800 Hillwood Parkway, Ste. 300

Fort Worth, Texas 76177

817.224.6000

Hillwood.com

alliancetexas@hillwood.com

Hillwood

Kelly Decker Law Firm

SPECIALTY: Family Law; Employment Law; Personal Injury Civil Litigation. EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS: Kelly Decker – University of Texas, B.A., 2001; Texas Tech University, J.D., 2005; Supreme Court of Texas, 2005; Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, 2017; United States District Court, Northern District of Texas, 2005. Marcy Freeman – University of Rochester, B.A., 1984; University of Houston Law Center, J.D., 1987; State Bar of Texas, 1987; University of Texas School of Law Center for Public Policy; Mediation Training, 2004; Collaborative Law Training, 2012. MEMBERSHIPS/AFFILIATIONS: State Bar of Texas Family Law Section, State Bar of Texas, Tarrant County Family Law Bar, Parker County Bar Association, Tarrant County Bar Association. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS: Through working as an ad litem and amicus attorney, I have been able to make sure children are safe and have a future. As a family law attorney, I have met people whose problems are real and who are scared. Helping those people has been rewarding and what I consider to be my greatest professional achievement. PROFESSIONAL APPROACH: Trusted Reputation. Driven for Excellence. WHAT SETS THEM APART: We take immense pride in doing good work. We value quality over quantity. FREE ADVICE: Even a cactus needs water. PICTURED: Dajana Santic, Marcy Freeman, Kelly Decker, Suzie Waldon, and Carter Collins.

Kelly Decker Law Firm

6300 Ridglea Place, Ste. 101 Fort Worth, Texas 76116 817.348.9060 kellydeckerlaw.com office@kellydeckerlaw.com

William A. Knight, Assistant Criminal District Attorney for

Tarrant County

SPECIALTY: Criminal Law. EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS: J.D./MBA with honors, St. Mary’s University; BBA, Southern Methodist University; Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization; member of the State Bar of Texas, State Bar of Minnesota, District of Columbia Bar. AWARDS/ HONORS: 2019 Child Abuse Prosecutor of the Year as voted by his law enforcement peers; Assistant Chief Prosecutor; former Special Victims Unit Prosecutor; former Intimate Partner Violence Unit Prosecutor; State Bar of Texas and Texas A&M Law School lecturer; Phi Delta Phi, Barrister of the Month, December 2021; Fort Worth Magazine Top Attorney, 2021-2022; All Saints’ Episcopal School Commencement Speaker, 2022; delegate to the Texas Republican State Convention, 2022; Republican Appointed Election Judge. MEMBERSHIPS/AFFILIATIONS: All Saints’ Episcopal School Board of Trustees member; All Saints’ Alumni Association president; The Federalist Society, former chapter president; St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church; Colleyville Lions Club; Sons of the American Revolution. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Receiving a hug from a 10-year-old boy who thanked me that his abuser will never hurt him again.

William

A. Knight, Assistant Criminal District Attorney

Tarrant County, Texas 401 W. Belknap St. Fort Worth, Texas 76196

817.884.1400

Mark C. Lane

Mark Lane Law Office

SPECIALTY: My firm specializes in Elder Law & Estate Planning, Family Law, including complex Divorce and Custody litigation, property settlements, custody modification, family law trial cases through an aggressive maverick-style of lawyering. EDUCATION: B.S. in Psychology, Lamar University; J.D., Texas Wesleyan University; retired Judge of Roanoke after 14 years. EXPERIENCE: Established over 24 years ago with approximately 8100 cases to date. AWARDS/HONORS: Past board member of Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS/AFFILIATIONS:

Texas Family Law Bar Section, National Association of Elder Law Attorneys, Lawyers with Purpose, Tarrant County Family Bar Association, State Bar of Texas, North District, U.S. District Court. GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT: Winning custody and property division cases that help that person continue in life with a fresh start and helping families plan for their future through Estate Planning. APPROACH TO LAW: Establishing an effective game plan to help my clients by using wisdom, experience, and litigation by providing a personal and direct contact through very difficult events. SPECIAL INTERESTS: Fellowship of the Sword, New River Fellowship Church, Vision Life Ministries and Dressing Souls. FREE ADVICE: “Hire me before your spouse does!”

Mark Lane Law Office

6100 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste. 22 Fort Worth, Texas 76116

817.377.1077 • Fax 817.377.1806

marklanelaw.com

hiremebeforeyourspousedoes.com

mark@marklanelaw.com

SPECIALTY: Commercial and Residential Real Estate & Title Insurance, Real Estate Investment Trusts. EDUCATION: Martin A. Garcia – Texas A&M School of Law (formerly known as Texas Wesleyan School of Law), J.D., 2012; Certified Title Insurance Professional designation from the Texas Land Title Association. AWARDS/ HONORS: Fort Worth Magazine Top Attorney consecutively since 2014; Texas Super Lawyers Rising Star in Real Estate consecutively since 2016; 2018 Texas Wesleyan Young Alumnus Achievement Award; 360 West and 76107 Top Attorney recognition for six consecutive years.

GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Continuing to grow Simplified Title Company despite uncertain markets. MISSION: To grow a vertically integrated real estate company that creates a superior experience that our clients and employees are proud of and one in which our investors seek for long-term returns.

PICTURED: (left to right) Whitney Walls, Katy Garcia, Martin Garcia, and Susan Hudson.

MAG Law, PLLC

3108 W. Sixth St., Ste. 222 • Fort Worth, Texas 76107 817.945.6398 texas-title.com

Simplified Title Company, LLC 1845 Precinct Line Road, Ste. 100 • Hurst, Texas 76054 817.727.8412

simplifiedtitleco.com martin@simplifiedtitleco.com

SPECIALTY: Kent McAfee has been a Texas attorney for over 38 years, serving injured victims in Fort Worth and throughout Texas. CONCENTRATION: Personal Injury (Plaintiff), Civil Litigation. EDUCATION: J. Kent McAfee – B.S., University of Tennessee; Graduate Studies (M.P.A.), Memphis State University; J.D., Cumberland School of Law, Samford University. Brittany McAfee – B.S. in Criminal Justice, University of Mississippi; J.D., Lincoln Memorial University - Duncan School of Law; licensed in Texas and Tennessee. HONORS: The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Attorneys, 2017-2019. EXPERIENCE: Kent began practicing law in 1984, with a desire to serve the public and to make a difference. “Focusing on personal injury victims allows me the opportunity to give a voice to individuals and to ‘level the playing field’ against powerful corporations and insurance companies.”

PROFESSIONAL

MEMBERSHIPS: Licensed by the Texas Supreme Court; member of the State Bar of Texas; American Association for Justice; served on the State Bar of Texas District 7 Grievance Committee. WHAT SETS THEM APART:

“Communication is paramount ... the client must understand what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and participate in that process.” MOTTO: Never accept “no” for an answer. ADVICE: “Do not hire an attorney who won’t talk with you in the initial meeting. It won’t improve in the future.”

Law Offices of J. Kent McAfee, PC

One Legal Place

925 Eighth Ave. • Fort Worth, Texas 76104

817.332.7678

onelegalplace.com

kent@onelegalplace.com brittany@mcafeelawtx.com

McClure Law Group

Brandon Joseph, Kelly McClure, Francesca Blackard, Kate Mataya

SPECIALTY: Our firm is 100% dedicated to family law. EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS: McClure Law Group’s founder and CEO, Kelly McClure, is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. HONORS: The partners at McClure Law Group have been repeatedly recognized for their work in family law. The team of partners have been named Power Players, Leaders in Law, Faces of Divorce, and Top Attorneys. Additionally, McClure and Blackard have been regularly named among Dallas’ Best Lawyers. WHAT SETS THEM APART: McClure Law Group’s financial acumen, tax law skills, state-of-the-art forensic accounting, research strategies, extensive trial experience, and collaborative law knowledge equip their attorneys to advocate for their clients’ positions. From the simplest divorce to the most complex business and property cases, their seasoned attorneys help minimize the financial and emotional toll a divorce can have on a family and guide them through what is unarguably one of the most difficult chapters of their lives.

PROFESSIONAL APPROACH: Recognized as Best Law Firms 2022 by U.S. News & World Report, McClure Law Group knows clients want their family law dealings to be as seamless as possible, and their approach is the gold standard for divorces, custody, property, and pre- and post-marital agreements. PICTURED: Brandon Joseph, Kelly McClure, Francesca Blackard, and Kate Mataya.

McClure Law Group

Proudly serving all Texas counties 8115 Preston Road, Ste. 270 Dallas, Texas 75225 214.692.8200 mcclure-lawgroup.com

SPECIALTY: The Law Offices of Jason Mills was established in 2001 as a full-service immigration and naturalization law firm specializing in Immigration Law. Established by Jason Mills, the first-ever board-certified specialist in immigration and nationality law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Fort Worth in 2006, it is a successful multidisciplinary practice focusing on all aspects of U.S. immigration law, including consular processing, waivers, removal defense, family-based visas, business visas, and investor-related cases. EDUCATION/

CERTIFICATIONS: Mills – Bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M, 1995; Juris doctorate from Texas A&M School of Law, 2000; international studies, Cambridge Law School, England; admitted to the State Bar of Texas, the Northern District of Texas, and the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.

GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Creating an honest environment for people to come in and get advice. APPROACH TO LAW: It is essential to be honest and efficient with clients. The firm’s approach in maintaining clients begins with keeping the client informed. The firm emphasizes a progressive and hands-on approach to problem-solving and effectively and efficiently handling legal matters.

FREE ADVICE: Check references in the form of former clients before hiring an attorney.

PICTURED: Jason Mills, Lauren Wallis, and Jorge Arias

Law Offices of Jason Mills, PLLC 1403 Ellis Ave. • Fort Worth, Texas 76164 817.335.0220 • Fax 817.335.0240 immigrationnation.net info@immigrationnation.net

SPECIALTY: 100% Divorce and Family Law. AWARDS/HONORS: Super Lawyers 2022; Fort Worth Magazine Top Attorneys 2022; Martindale Hubbell Platinum Client Champion Award 2022; Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated 2022; Lawyers.com Client Distinction Award. PROFESSIONAL APPROACH: We provide custom-tailored legal solutions to help clients achieve their goals. We pride ourselves on communicating with clients in a timely manner and working together to develop a case strategy. When your family is at issue, having a lack of control is a terrible feeling, one we do not want for our clients. WHAT SETS THE FIRM APART: We are a team of attorneys with over 75 years of combined experience. Our nine attorneys focus their practice areas exclusively on family law, primarily in Tarrant County. Two of our attorneys are board certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. When you hire our firm, you’re hiring a team ready to stand by your side and protect what is important to you — your family and financial future. FREE ADVICE: Filing first has many advantages in litigation. If you have made the decision to proceed with a divorce or family law case, it can be highly advantageous to file first. PICTURED: Kelly Hollingsworth, Jessica Temple, Constance Mims, Bryan Ballew, Andrew McAlester, Tim Alexander.

Mims

Ballew Hollingsworth, PLLC

700 N. Carroll Ave., Ste. 170 Southlake, Texas 76092

Downtown Fort Worth office opening early 2023

817.900.8330

Fax 817.900.8339

familylaw-tx.com

Montes Law Group, PC

SPECIALTY: Board-Certified in Personal Injury/ Wrongful Death Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, helping those who have been harmed by the negligence of others, including commercial vehicle and car crash cases, insurance claims, unsafe premises cases, unsafe workplace injuries, day care negligence cases, and defective products cases, among others. EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS: University of Texas at Dallas, Texas Wesleyan School of Law, The Trial Lawyers College.

AWARDS/HONORS: Multiple accolades, including Best Lawyers Under 40 in Dallas, Best Lawyer in Dallas in PI/Wrongful Death multiple years, “10 Best Attorneys” for Texas in PI, Texas Super Lawyer 2003-present, “10 Best Attorneys” for Texas by the American Institute of PI Attorneys, Best Law Firms U.S. News and World Report MEMBERSHIPS/ AFFILIATIONS: Dallas Trial Lawyers Association, Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Attorneys Serving the Community, Dallas Women Lawyers Association. APPROACH TO LAW: Leave no stone unturned. Montes Law Group aggressively pursues justice in all forms, builds solutions, and works all cases to achieve the best, maximum result in the least amount of time, oftentimes with safety upgrades that benefit the community. FREE ADVICE: Hire an experienced, board-certified trial lawyer to protect your rights and those of your family. We create solutions to benefit you and your family. We put our clients first. PICTURED: Rachel Montes.

Montes Law Group, PC 1121 Kinwest Parkway, Ste. 100 Irving, Texas 75063

214.522.9401

Fax 214.522.9428

monteslawgroup.com rachel@monteslawgroup.com

SPECIALTY: Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Support, Child Welfare, Adoption, Termination, Litigation, and Mediation.

EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS: Texas Wesleyan School of Law, J.D., 2012; Texas Tech University, BBA, 2006; Certified Mediator, 2012. AWARDS/ HONORS: Super Lawyers, Rising Star; Fort Worth Magazine Top Attorney; National Advocates Top 40 Under 40; 360 West Top Attorney; Lead Counsel Verified, 10 Best by American Institute of Family Law Attorneys; DBA Civil Trial Academy; Mensa. MEMBERSHIPS: State Bar of Texas, Tarrant County Bar Association, Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association, Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association, Phi Delta Phi, Animal Legal Defense Fund. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: As an adjunct professor at the Texas A&M School of Law, I get to teach the next generation of attorneys how to actually practice law and try a case in the family court system. WHY HE CHOSE THE LEGAL FIELD: “I am lucky to have mentors that fostered an interest in family law and encouraged me to pursue it.” APPROACH TO LAW: “If there were no bad people, there would be no good lawyers.” –Charles Dickens. FREE ADVICE: Do what I say, not what I do. PICTURED: Katheryn Williams, J. Spencer Nilsson, and Renee Quintanilla.

930 West First St., Ste. 200 Fort Worth, Texas 76102 817.953.6688 ftwlegal.com spencer@ftwlegal.com

J. Spencer Nilsson

J. Spencer Nilsson Nilsson Legal Group, PLLC

David Wynne O’Neil Wysocki, PC

SPECIALTY: Family Law. EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS: Michelle O’Neil and Michael Wysocki are both Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

AWARDS/HONORS: O’Neil – Texas Super Lawyer; Top 50 Women Lawyers in Texas; Top 100 Lawyers in Texas. Wysocki – Texas Super Lawyer, 2014 – 2022.

MEMBERSHIPS/AFFILIATIONS: Tarrant County Bar Association; Denton County Bar Association APPROACH TO LAW: O’Neil Wysocki is a firm of litigation attorneys who advocate zealously for their clients. While we still settle many cases, when a case is not ripe for settlement or settlement is not in our client’s best interest – we fight and net results.

WHAT SETS THEM APART: O’Neil Wysocki knows Family Law. And everyone in Family Law knows O’Neil Wysocki, also known as the “OWLs.” Considered among the Top Lawyers in Texas, Michelle May O’Neil, Michael D. Wysocki, and David Wynne are the real deal and “The Wise Choice” in divorce and child custody litigation. They are in trenches actually fighting for their clients, which is hard to find these days.

PICTURED: David W. Wynne, Managing Partner, Fort Worth Office.

O’Neil Wysocki, PC

2630 West Freeway, Ste. 218 Fort Worth, Texas 76102

817.332.2202

Fax 817.332.2316

OWLawyers.com

SPECIALTY: Twenty-five-year trial lawyer in the fields of Personal Injury (Defense and Plaintiffs), Commercial Disputes, and Agriculture. Fluent in Spanish. EDUCATION: B.A., TCU, History/ Spanish, 1993; St. Mary’s School of Law, 1997; TCU Ranch Management, 2001. AWARDS/ HONORS: AV-Preeminent, the highest possible peer rating; licensed in U.S. Supreme Court in 2001; Life Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, a recognition afforded to only one-third of 1% of Texas Attorneys; Texas Monthly Rising Star/ Super Lawyer: Personal Injury Defense, 20052008 and Plaintiffs, 2009-2011; previously named in Fort Worth Magazine as a top trial attorney in Tarrant County, 2007, 2012, 20152021. MEMBERSHIPS: Friends of the Fort Worth Herd, Executive Board Member; Dallas Safari Club, Life Member; National Rifle Association, Life Member. PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Having achieved extensive trial experience and an eventual partnership in a large Dallas-based firm, Tony got back to his roots and opened his own law office over 15 years ago in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards. He now achieves a healthy balance between his family, his trial practice, and his passion for hunting and fishing worldwide. APPROACH: Boots and Jeans Attitude, Coat and Tie Service. ADVICE: Work hard, then play hard. PICTURED: Tony “TFP” Pettitt (shown here playing hard in the Gulf of Mexico).

121 NE 21st St. Fort Worth, Texas 76164

817.626.4444

Fax 817.626.4445

tpettitt@stockyardslawfirm.com

The Pettitt Firm, PC

Phelps Dunbar, LLP

SPECIALTY: Attorneys in the Fort Worth office have experience successfully representing clients in the areas of business, real estate and construction, labor and employment, commercial litigation, trusts and estates, and eminent domain. CERTIFICATION: Claudine Jackson – Board Certified in Labor & Employment Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization; Joe Reimer – Licensed Escrow Officer, Texas Department of Insurance. AWARDS/HONORS: Andrea Paris – Texas Super Lawyers Rising Stars; Top Attorney in Labor and Employment, 360 West Magazine. Maritza Sanchez – Top Attorney, Civil Law and Litigation, Fort Worth Magazine. Dan Steppick – Texas Super Lawyers; Top Attorney, 360 West Magazine. Claudine Jackson – Litigation, Labor and Employment and Employment Law - Management, The Best Lawyers in America; Top Attorney in Labor and Employment, 360 West Magazine APPROACH TO LAW: As a law firm formed 169 years ago and with over 350 attorneys, Phelps serves clients with a broad range of business needs across Texas and the Southeast through a relationship-driven approach that blends traditional and progressive ideas and strategies to help our clients prosper. Our lawyers have deep experience in specific areas of law, but we don’t approach legal matters in isolation. We are invested in helping our clients’ overall success. PICTURED: (top) Andrea Paris, Dan Steppick, Regina Vasquez, Joe Reimer; (bottom) Maritza Sanchez, Claudine Jackson (Managing Partner), Zshoná Workman.

Phelps Dunbar, LLP

201 Main St., Ste. 1350 Fort Worth, Texas 76102 817.386.1166 phelps.com info@phelps.com

SPECIALTY: Criminal Defense and Serious Personal Injuries. Firsthand experience as a prosecutor, judge, and trial attorney.

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts in English; Juris Doctor. AWARDS/HONORS: 2022 Fort Worth Magazine Top Attorney, The National Advocates Top 100 Lawyers, Tarrant County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association Presidents Award, and AVVO Client Choice Award. MEMBERSHIPS/AFFILIATIONS: State Bar of Texas, State Bar of Colorado, State Bar of Pennsylvania, State Bar of New York, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Texas Defense Lawyers Association, Tarrant County Defense Lawyers.

GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS: I consider every case that results in full justice for my clients to be an achievement. MISSION: My professional mission is to get full justice for my clients, be it getting them millions of dollars or be it allowing them to keep their freedom and good name. We are a boutique firm that works with a select number of clients. We try to give honest assessments to prospective clients; those who value truth over puffery tend to appreciate our firm. FREE ADVICE: Do not hire an attorney that you do not trust. If you trust your attorney, then be completely transparent. If you provide inaccurate facts, you will end up with inaccurate advice. Tell the truth, even when it hurts, because it will come out eventually.

PICTURED: Paul V. Previte.

Law Office of Paul Previte, PLLC 6200 Airport Freeway Haltom City, Texas 76117

817.335.4357 helpmepaul.com

stacy@helpmepaul.com

P. Micheal Schneider Law Firm, P.C.

FOCUS: Family Law and Criminal Defense. PREFERRED CASES: High-Conflict Divorce Litigation; Custody Cases; Jury Trials; Family Violence Defense; Sex Crimes Defense. WHAT SETS US APART: We have an exceptional team of attorneys that not only have experience in procedure, evidence, and trial dynamics, but a reputation within the Tarrant County legal community of practicing with respect for our colleagues and a fierce advocacy for our clients. From the initial client meeting through the final disposition, our attorneys use experience, empathy, keen legal knowledge, and problem-solving skills to provide an unparalleled level of advocacy for our clients. We understand that every case and every client are different, and we communicate and listen to our clients to ensure they understand the overall legal process and any options they may have available to achieve a favorable result in their case. Our attorneys are compassionate toward our clients but truly excel in the courtroom. FIRM’S MISSION: Win every case. MOTTO: No matter what, go into court and be a tiger! PICTURED: Taryn Horton, Trent Marshall, Alison Porterfield, Melissa Swan, P. Micheal Schneider, Callie Dodson, Jessica Phillips, Jennifer Liles.

P. Micheal Schneider Law Firm, P.C.

Fort Worth Office

400 E. Weatherford St., Ste. 106

Fort Worth, Texas 76102 • 817.850.9955

Arlington Office

5001 S. Cooper St., Ste. 212 Arlington, Texas 76017 • 817.276.6050

Alliance/Keller Office

5332 N. Tarrant Pkwy. Fort Worth, Texas 76244 • 817.849.2404

TeamSLF.com

SPECIALTY: Exclusively Family Law.

CERTIFICATIONS: Sarah C. Seltzer – Board Certified in Child Welfare Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Lori E. Dally – Trained in Collaborative Law. Daniel P. Webb – Board Certified in Family Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization. AWARDS/HONORS: Sarah – Texas Rising Star, Super Lawyers (2019-2023); Top Attorney in Family Law, Fort Worth Magazine (2015-2022). Lori – Texas Rising Star, Super Lawyers (2019- 2023); Top Attorney in Family Law, Fort Worth Magazine (2017-2022). Daniel – Texas Rising Star, Super Lawyers (2012-2020) and Super Lawyer (2021-2023); Top Attorney in Family Law, Fort Worth Magazine (2022).

GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT:

Sarah – CASA Attorney Ad Litem of the Year (2020). Lori – Swearing in before the United States Supreme Court. Daniel – Acceptance to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. APPROACH TO LAW: To provide excellent and effective representation through communication, compassion, and commitment. WHAT SETS THEM APART: We genuinely care about our clients and provide an unparalleled level of representation. FREE ADVICE: Beware of technology — you never know when your texts, emails, or social media posts will end up in front of a judge. PICTURED: (left to right) Daniel P. Webb, Lori E. Dally, and Sarah C. Seltzer.

Seltzer, Dally & Webb, PLLC

Fort Worth* - 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste. 340 Fort Worth, Texas 76116 Granbury - 106 S. Jones St. Granbury, Texas 76048

817.887.9206

YourTexasFamilyLawyer.com

*Principal Office

SPECIALTY: Board Certified Family Law Specialist, Family Law Mediator, and Collaborative Attorney, serving the entire DFW area. EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS: B.A., Southern Methodist University; J.D., Southern Methodist University School of Law; Board-Certified by State Bar of Texas in Family Law.

HONORS/AWARDS: Texas Super Lawyer; Arlington Family Law Attorney of the Year; Top Attorney, Family Law, Fort Worth Magazine MEMBERSHIPS: Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists; Arlington Bar Association; Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association; Tarrant County Bar Association.

GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT: Being sworn in by Chief Justice Rehnquist to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court in 2000. APPROACH TO LAW: We strive to provide the highest level of legal expertise tempered with an empathy and understanding of the great emotional toll that clients are experiencing in their family law cases, with the goal of facilitating their brave path to achieving the most peaceful, healthy, and loving new family dynamic. WHAT SETS THEM APART: Experience, expertise, and the extraordinary commitment to advocate for not only the client’s stated objectives, but the wellness of the entire family, especially the children involved.

MOTTO: When your family and finances matter, experience counts! PICTURED: (front) Donna J. Smiedt, Managing Partner; Desaray R. Muma, Attorney/Non-Equity Partner; Montana M. Franklin, Associate Attorney.

Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt, PLLC 3216 W. Arkansas Lane • Arlington, Texas 76016 817.572.9900 • Fax 817.572.7679 smiedtlaw.com • arlingtondivorces.com Family Law Firm of

FOCUS OF PRACTICE: Collaborative Law, Family Law, Mediation, Estate Planning. EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATION: Board Certified in Family Law; J.D., Texas Wesleyan; LL.M, Pepperdine University School of Law; B.A., University of Houston. AWARDS/HONORS: Recognized as a Master/Credentialed Collaborative Professional by Collaborative Divorce Texas; nominated by peers as a Super Lawyer Rising Star, 2014 and 2015; Super Lawyer 2022. PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS: Board member, Collaborative Divorce Texas; past president of Northeast Tarrant County Bar Association; chairperson of the Collaborative Law Section of the Tarrant County Bar; Leadership Southlake; Faculty Staff, CEELI Institute Prague, Winter 2019. WHY SHE CHOSE THE LEGAL FIELD: Prior to going to law school, I mediated family law cases to help families reach resolution without having the court make decisions for their family. I have a passion for helping families find their way through the legal system while retaining as much autonomy as possible regarding the important decisions in their lives. MISSION: I am proud to have dedicated my practice to solving disputes by utilizing alternative methods such as collaborative law and mediation. I strive to help families navigate through tough times by empowering clients to make decisions for their families without asking for court intervention, if possible. ADVICE: Always consider alternatives prior to litigation. Make sure that whomever you choose to represent you shares your method of problem-solving and vision of the general direction of your case. PICTURED: Kate Smith.

1205 Hall Johnson Road

Colleyville, Texas 76034

817.479.0562

Law Office of Kate Smith, PLLC

Law Office of Kate Smith, PLLC

Stephens Law Firm PLLC

SPECIALTY: Jason Stephens is a passionate advocate for individuals and families involved in serious personal injury, trucking accidents, and wrongful death cases. He limits his practice to select cases, allowing him to fully understand his clients’ losses and struggles while forging a strategic plan to help them piece their lives back together. “When I take on a case, my client’s problem becomes my problem, and I am driven to righting that wrong.” AWARDS/HONORS: AV® rated by MartindaleHubble; Top 100 Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers Association, (2011-present); and Texas Super Lawyer by Thomas Reuters, (2004-present). FIRM’S PROFESSIONAL APPROACH: Jason and his talented support team are devoted to helping clients get answers, move toward healing, and seek the financial compensation they deserve. Jason takes the trust of clients seriously and personally and always strives to serve his clients and community with honor and integrity. WHAT SETS HIM APART: Jason’s legal achievements have resulted in safety policies and changes to better protect children and our communities, as well as a litany of multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements, including a recent $15.68 million wrongful death verdict, the largest ever for a personal injury case in Grayson County, according to VerdictSearch, demonstrating the benefit of his 25 years of experience and long track record of success. PICTURED: Jason Stephens.

Stephens Law Firm PLLC

1300 S. University Drive, Ste. 406 Fort Worth, Texas 76107

817.420.7000 stephenslaw.com

Rick Ward Ward Law Firm

SPECIALTY: Personal Injury Trial Law. EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS: J.D., cum laude, St. Mary’s School of Law, San Antonio, 1992; Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization, 1999. AWARDS/HONORS: John Harlan Society, AV Preeminent (Martindale Hubbell).

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) (President-Elect). WHY CHOOSE HIM: I have worked with referring attorneys and clients to obtain positive results for more than 27 years. I strive to get to know my clients, their injuries, and all the damages they’ve suffered in order to effectively advocate their claims and maximize their recoveries. I will litigate your claim, take it to trial, and won’t take a fee until we win. WHAT SETS HIM APART: Some of the largest cases my firm has handled throughout the years were referred by other attorneys in the Texas legal community. I pledge to treat your clients the way you would and love making a difference in their lives. I actually enjoy paying your referral fee and will work with you at whatever level of involvement you like. APPROACH TO LAW: Start with compassion for your clients, do the right thing by them, and everything else will follow. I aggressively advocate for my clients and give them personalized legal representation. PICTURED: Rickey G. “Rick” Ward.

Fax 817.870.2674

rickwardlawfirm.biz

rick@rickwardlawfirm.com

SPECIALITY: Westbrook Law specializes in trucking wrecks, catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, workplace injuries, motorcycle wrecks, pedestrian wrecks, car wrecks, slip and falls, and premise liability injuries. EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATION: Texas A&M, B.A.; Texas A&M School of Law, J.D.; Texas Trial Lawyer College graduate. AWARDS/HONORS: Rising Star as rated by Super Lawyers, 2022; 360 West Top Attorney, 2022; Best of the Bar for a Top 100 Verdict in the State of Texas, 2020.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Board of Directors, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, American Association for Justice. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Top 100 Verdict in the State of Texas, 2020. MISSION: Westbrook Law exists to provide a custom level of representation to people who are hurt through another person or company’s fault. WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM: Our core values include vigorous advocacy, integrity, and delivering wow customer service. This means you will be updated monthly on the status of your case, you will be able to speak to your attorney when needed, and we will take your matter all the way through trial if necessary. FREE ADVICE: Never accept the insurance company’s first offer. PICTURED: Ben Westbrook.

Westbrook Law, PLLC 1214 Fairmount Ave. Fort Worth, Texas 76104

817.523.1232 westbrooklawfirm.com team@westbrooklawfirm.com

Ben Eric Westbrook

Witherite Law Group

Victor Rodriguez

John Nohinek

SPECIALTY: Personal Injury Law for Car and Truck Wrecks. EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS: John Nohinek – B.A., College of William and Mary; J.D., Oklahoma City University School of Law. Victor Rodriguez – B.A., Stephen F. Austin State University; J.D., Texas Tech School of Law. AWARDS/ HONORS: Best D 2021, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, National Association of Distinguished Counsel, Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, Super Lawyers, Top 100 Places to Work. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS: Witherite Law Group has settled thousands of cases over the past 20 years, and millions of dollars have been paid to our clients. Winning cases for our clients will always be our greatest achievement. PROFESSIONAL APPROACH: Witherite Law Group strives to improve the lives of each person we serve – our clients, community, and one another. People First. Unmatched Expertise. Integrity Always. WHAT SETS THEM APART: Expertise in car and truck wrecks is what sets us apart from other personal injury firms. Our attorneys attend Truck Driving Training School and drive 18-wheelers, giving them the experience and perspective needed to understand our clients’ cases. This training and expertise are difference-makers for our clients. FREE ADVICE: Truck wrecks are complex, include multiple responsible parties, and involve many laws/regulations. For these reasons, it is critical to hire a personal injury firm whose accident attorneys have truck wreck training and expertise. PICTURED: Victor Rodriguez and John Nohinek.

FOCUS: Personal Injury Litigation. The firm focuses on negligence cases including truck wrecks, car and motorcycle collisions, traumatic brain and catastrophic injuries, and cases of wrongful death.

EDUCATION: Coby Wooten –B.A., political science, Texas State University; Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. Mattilyn Smith – Texas A&M School of Law. AWARDS/ RECOGNITIONS: Wooten is a litigator with over 25 years of experience. He was awarded the Trial Lawyers Board of Regents Litigator Award, Avvo Superb 10+ rating. Smith is a strong advocate for their clients and is a trusted name in the legal community. Both were named Super Lawyers by Texas Monthly Magazine. The law firm continues to achieve millions of dollars in settlements every year.

MEMBERSHIPS/AFFILIATIONS:

Wooten – former president, Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Association; Board of Directors, Texas Trial Lawyer Association; member of American Board of Trial Advocates, the Million Dollar and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and the Academy of American Truck Accident Attorneys. Smith – Board of Directors, Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Association; member of the American Association of Justice. WHAT SETS THEM APART: The firm has a history of great success and great results. They are committed to aggressively advocating for personal injury victims against big businesses and insurance companies to get them the compensation they deserve.

Coby

Texas 76102 817.632.8400

Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz, PC

SPECIALTY: Immigration and Estate Planning. AWARDS/ HONORS: Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz, PC has been awarded Fort Worth Magazine Top Attorneys, 2017-2022; Super Lawyers for 15 consecutive years; Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2018-2022; Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Peer Rated Attorneys; and Avvo Clients Choice Award, 2021. APPROACH TO LAW: Legal issues arise all the time, often causing a great deal of stress and confusion. The attorney you select can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. When faced with a serious legal problem, you need a lawyer focused on first-rate representation that leads to practical and cost-effective solutions. WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM: We have been serving Tarrant County and its residents with high-quality legal services for the last 50 years with more than 100 years of combined legal experience. PICTURED: Rigien Jackson, Partner.

Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz, PC

601 W. Abram St. • Arlington, Texas 76010

817.226.1100

jlkattorneys.com contact@jlkattorneys.com

Scott Prescher Prescher Law Firm, PLLC

SPECIALTY: Family Law, Wills & Probate. EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS: J.D., Texas A&M University School of Law; Master of Theological Studies, TCU; B.S. in Business Administration, UT Dallas. AWARDS/HONORS: 2022 Tarrant Co. Child Welfare Seminar CLE Presenter; Pro Bono Texas Campaign; Texas Bar College. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS: My greatest achievement is simply making a difference in the lives of my clients. You know you are doing something right when most of your clients hug you after their court hearing. Whether the client is a retained client or someone I was appointed to in a CPS case, I always advocate totally for my client.

PROFESSIONAL APPROACH: My firm works 110% for our clients because we see individuals, not just court cases.

PICTURED: Scott Prescher.

Prescher Law Firm, PLLC

P.O. Box 821597

North Richland Hills, Texas 76182

817.875.0943

prescherlaw.com

scott@prescherlaw.com

Bryan M. Kelly Matthew L. Motes Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP

SPECIALTY: Construction transactions and litigation.

EDUCATION: Bryan M. Kelly – B.S., Construction Science, cum laude, Texas A&M University; Juris Doctor, cum laude, SMU Dedman School of Law. Matthew L. Motes – South Texas College of Law. AWARDS/HONORS: Kelly – SMU’s John E. Kennedy Memorial Award; Fort Worth Magazine 2021 “Top Attorney.” Motes – Texas Super Lawyer- Construction Law. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS: Kelly – Successfully defended against a homeowner’s claim of defective construction and succeeded on the contractor’s counterclaim for damages. Motes – Won a jury verdict for a church to keep its property. APPROACH TO LAW: Provide great, personalized service at a reasonable price. FREE ADVICE: Kelly – Read. Your. Contract. Motes – Do not send the angry email at 5 p.m. Sleep on it. PICTURED: Matthew L. Motes and Bryan M. Kelly.

Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP

777 Main St., Ste. 600 • Fort Worth, Texas 76102 817.887.8161 • shackelford.law mmotes@shackelford.law • bkelly@shackelford.law

Zepeda Law Firm, PLLC

SPECIALTY: Employment and Family-Based Immigration. EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Yadira Zepeda – J.D., Texas A&M School of Law. MEMBERSHIPS/AFFILIATIONS: American Immigration Lawyers Association; Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Immigration Law Section of the Texas State Bar; Licensed in the Northern and Eastern District Courts of Texas; Woman’s Club of Fort Worth. PROFESSIONAL MISSION: Attorney Yadira Zepeda founded Zepeda Law Firm, Fort Worth’s preeminent immigration law firm. Yadira Zepeda, alongside Attorney Kiara Ibanez, have been uniting families across the globe and helping businesses grow through talent relocation for over 18 years. Our vision is to educate, take first steps, and fulfill the dream of immigrating to the U.S. and changing the lives of those who are pursuing the goal of enriching their families, businesses, and the global community.

PICTURED: Yadira Zepeda and Kiara Ibanez.

Zepeda Law Firm, PLLC

1200 West Freeway, Ste. 100 Fort Worth, Texas 76102

817.917.8863

zepedalawfirm.com

ASID Shining Star Awards

Fort Worth Magazine

On Thursday, Oct. 20, dozens of the city’s best interior designers converged at Arhaus in Clearfork to celebrate the ASID Shining Star Awards, which recognizes the year’s best designed spaces. Fort Worth Magazine partnered with ASID to host the event. Arhaus was the Platinum sponsor this year.

Laura McDonald Stewart, Christine Gee, Carole Harston, Annette Mallard

Missy Wilcher, Store Manager of Arhaus

April & Adam Littmann

Kalen Ruiz, Shauna Glenn, Riley Burner, Hannah Suarez

Christine & Duane Gee, Rachel Ahnen

Susan Semmelmann

Lauren Reyes, Jackie Nonmacher

Public Figures, Private Artists

The Art Station

More than 300 community leaders gathered on Oct. 19 at the ninth annual Public Figures, Private Artists event to benefit The Art Station, the only community-based nonprofit providing art therapy for healing and growth

Donna Sullivan, Katie Kalpakis, Becca Stupfel

Scott Jones, Steve Siddons, John McKnight

BACK ROW: Bradley Kent, Raymond Huyge, Jimmie Joe Jenkins BOTTOM ROW: Alicia Gaby, Joy Harvison, Susan Nus, Amy Young

Susan Rogers, Debby Baker, La Vonne Scharbauer

Mica Bergman, Tasha Ramirez, Salah Morgan, Alyssa Honer, Delisa Read

Abel Sanchez, Mary Ann Avila Garcia, Jane Avila, Nancy Sanchez

Peggy Marshall, Opal Lee, Barry King, Dione Sims

Billie Pugh, Paula Pugh, Richard Wilson, Nancy Wilson

Joy Harvison, Johnny Harvison, Hollie Harvison

Stacy McKnight, Marsha Berdan, Barclay Berdan

Mad Scientist Ball

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

The Mad Scientist Ball began with a taste of Fort Worth, featuring eight local restaurants. Artist Jimmy Joe Jenkins provided custom screen printing, while artist Bradley Kent delighted guests with mad scientist experiments dressed as Nikola Tesla. Mentalist Anthony Dempsey wowed guests with strolling magic as they stopped for a quick trip on the Lockheed Martin flight simulator. After a silent and live auction hosted by Dean McCurry Auction Services, guests danced the night away to the beats of DJ Tex.

Lane Reeder

Jessica Rangel, Emily Oberbeck, Sylvia Trent-Adams, Dennis Adams

Tom & Kelly Hanley, Joe & Tracy LaMarca, Greg & Shawnee Ulmer

Laura & Al DiStefano

Jimmy Joe Jenkins

2022 Steeplechase Debutantes

The Steeplechase Club

The Steeplechase Club was honored to present its 2022 debutantes at the annual ball on Oct. 29. Held at River Crest Country Club, this year’s theme centered around Texas and included a special focal point highlighting Dr. Chip Brown’s custom boot collection. Chip is both an active Steeplechase member and recurrent board member with a colorful collection of over 160 boots. Guests enjoyed two out-of-state bands, The Tuten Brothers with a Western flair and the lively Party Crashers located in the ballroom. Melanie Tatum Events did a magnificent job detailing Texas with rooms featuring oversized oil derricks, hanging cowboy hats, turquoise accents, a State Fair room serving Fletcher’s corny dogs and fried oreos, and an outdoor patio, Campbell’s Cantina, to honor Campbell Dean Boswell, club president. The Boswell legacy is steeped in Texas tradition with several ranches passed down through generations stemming from Colonel Slaughter, a well-known Texas ranching pioneer in the mid-1800s and initiator of the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association.

Benjamin Parker, Hannah Simon, Thomas House, Campbell Boswell, Waldron Collins, Ross Moncrief

FOCUS Vision Specialists

Our eyes are one of our most precious gifts. That’s why it is important that we maintain good vision and eye health as we age. To help you select a vision care specialist who will meet your needs, the following experts want to tell you more about themselves, their practices, and how their services can help improve your outlook on life.

The information in this section is provided by the advertisers and has not been independently verified by Fort Worth Magazine.

FOCUS VISION SPECIALISTS

SPECIALTY: Ophthalmology – adult eye care including treatment for cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes, and dry eyes. Also offering laser vision correction and high-tech lens implants for reduced dependence on glasses and contacts, as well as cosmetic eyelid surgery.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS: Chian-Huey “Amy” Hong, M.D. – cum laude, Columbia University; B.A., pre-med and economics; medical degree, UT Southwestern Medical School; internship, ophthalmology residency and glaucoma fellowship, Tulane School of Medicine. Ronald Barke, M.D. – undergraduate and medical school, University of Southern California; internship, Los Angeles County University of Southern California Medical Center; fellowship, Jules Stein Eye Institute in lens and cataract

biochemistry; training, UT Southwestern Medical School, fellowship in oculoplastics and residency in ophthalmology; currently on staff as a clinical volunteer at UT Southwestern Medical School. Lauren May, M.D. – Northwestern in Chicago, medical degree and residency in ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, N.C.; two-year fellowship in oculoplastics. Tara Hardin, O.D. – Texas Tech, B.S. in Biology; University of Houston College of Optometry, doctorate of optometry. Rosmary Sanchez, O.D. – University of Texas at Arlington B.S. in Biology; Texas Women’s University, MBA, and University of Houston College of Optometry, doctorate of optometry. WHAT SETS THEM APART: Key-Whitman is one of the few eye centers that offers the full range of options to improve your

vision, with customized LASIK and high-tech lenses for cataract procedures. INNOVATIONS: The advances in high-tech lenses like the Light Adjustable Lens, Synergy, Vivity, PanOptix, Symfony, and the Toric lens using the latest techniques with Femtosecond laser, which give many patients a wide range of vision for near or far distances with less dependency on glasses or contacts. FREE ADVICE: Everyone needs to have regular eye health exams. Oftentimes, permanent vision loss can be easily prevented with early diagnosis and treatment of conditions before any symptoms are present. PICTURED: (left to right) C. Amy Hong, M.D.; Ronald Barke, M.D.; (back) Rosmary Sanchez, O.D. and Tara Hardin, O.D.; (not photographed) Lauren May, M.D.

Key-Whitman Eye Center

910 N. Davis Drive • Arlington, Texas 76012

400 W. Arbrook Blvd. • Arlington, Texas 76014

3400 N. Tarrant Parkway • Fort Worth, Texas 76177

817.460.2272

Toll-free 1.800.442.5330

Fax 817.265.9684

patientservices@keywhitman.com keywhitman.com

Key-Whitman Eye Center

Cornea Consultants of Texas

Aaleya Koreishi, M.D.

Patricia Ple-plakon, M.D.

Joanne Francis, M.D.

SPECIALTY: Drs. Koreishi, Ple-plakon, and Francis are fellowship-trained ophthalmologists providing compassionate, cutting-edge specialty care in the newest cornea transplant techniques, advanced cataract surgery with specialty lenses, and LASIK refractive surgery. They perform the only FDAapproved corneal crosslinking procedure for keratoconus.

EDUCATION: Dr. Koreishi – M.D., University of Michigan; ophthalmology residency, Johns Hopkins Hospital; fellowship in Cornea, External Disease and Refractive Surgery at top-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. Dr. Pleplakon – M.D., University of Michigan; ophthalmology residency, University of Michigan; fellowship in Cornea, External Disease and Refractive Surgery at the prestigious Baylor College of Medicine. Dr. Francis – M.D., Northeast Ohio Medical University; ophthalmology residency, SUNY Stony Brook; fellowship in Cornea and External Disease at Wills Eye Hospital, a leading institute for complex cases. PATIENT CARE: Our doctors are committed to providing quality and state-of-the-art care in a friendly atmosphere. They believe patient education is the key to successful treatment and strive to educate their patients so that they can play an active role in their treatment. The Cornea Consultants of Texas team strives to provide exceptional and individualized care to every patient. Quality, precision, and pedigree — what you deserve!

Cornea Consultants of Texas 3455 Locke Ave., Ste. 220 Fort Worth, Texas 76107

817.529.3100

Fax 817.529.3101

707 N. Fielder Road, Ste. B-1

Arlington, Texas 76012

817.987.1248

Fax 817.987.2475

4825 Alliance Blvd., Ste. 100 Plano, Texas 75093

469.246.1824

Fax 469.246.1826

corneaconsultantstx.com

Reinke Eye and Laser Center

Martin Reinke, M.D.

SPECIALTY: Ophthalmology: Cataract Surgery, Premium Lens Implants (Toric Lens, PanOptix, Vivity, Tecnis Symfony), Diseases of the Retina and Vitreous, Diabetic Retinopathy/Lasers, Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma Treatment.

EDUCATION: B.A., magna cum laude, Harvard University, 1986; M.D., University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, 1990; Ophthalmology Residency, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, 1995; Vitreoretinal Fellowship, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, 1997.

CERTIFICATIONS: Board Certified, American Board of Ophthalmology. AWARDS: Physician’s Recognition Award, American Medical Association. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Texas Ophthalmological Association, Texas Medical Association, Tarrant County Medical Society. AFFILIATIONS: Baylor Scott & White Surgical Hospital Las Colinas, Baylor Scott & White-Irving, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, Texas Health Surgery Center Arlington. PATIENT CARE: A commitment to excellence in eye care is enhanced by our outstanding, caring staff. Dr. Reinke is a uniquely talented surgeon who personally provides all preoperative and postoperative care.

Reinke Eye and Laser Center

1310 N. White Chapel Blvd. • Southlake, Texas 76092 817.310.6080 • Fax 817.310.6014 1916 Central Drive • Bedford, Texas 76021 817.283.6607 • Fax 817.283.2674

7433 Las Colinas Blvd. • Irving, Texas 75063 972.556.1915 • Fax 972.556.1877

reinke.southlake@gmail.com dfwlasercataract.com

SPECIALTY: Retina specialist; board-certified, fellowship-trained ophthalmologists specializing in the most advanced treatments for medical and surgical diseases of the retina including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vascular occlusions, retinal detachment, macular holes, epiretinal membrane, and intraocular tumors. EDUCATION: The physicians have trained at leading institutions, including the Johns Hopkins Hospital Wilmer Eye Institute, Harvard Medical School, Duke University Eye Center, Wills Eye Hospital, University of Southern California, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, University of California San Francisco, and the Georgetown University/ Retina Group of Washington. PATIENT CARE: We believe the most important qualities of the doctor-patient relationship are communication, trust, and compassion. As physicians, we should know more than our patients about their disease; our goal is to have them understand their disease at least as well as we do. We strive to educate our patients every day. We are humbled by our patients’ trust and feel that trust is a strong foundation upon which our relationship is built. Our goal is to heal; often, that healing comes from soothing the mind or the heart through compassion. We advise our patients to take an active part in their treatment.

Retina Center of Texas

3455 Locke Ave., Ste. 310 Fort Worth, Texas 76107

305 Morrison Park Drive, Ste. 100 Southlake, Texas 76092

3804 W. 15th St., Ste. 130 Plano, Texas 75075

12222 N. Central Expressway, Ste. 250 Dallas, Texas 75243

817.865.6800 • Fax 817.865.6790 retinacentertx.com

Bass Eye Care

SPECIALTY: Routine and preventative eye exams; MNCL scleral fittings through our state-of-the-art technology and innovative techniques. GREATEST ACHIEVEMENTS: Earning respect and trust of eye care professionals. Platinum scleral fitting honor. UNIQUE PATIENT CARE: Each patient experience is important to us. Our staff of professionals provide excellence in patient care. They experience unparalleled customer service from scheduling and testing to doctor’s exams. Post exam, they enjoy our Boutique Optical where our master opticians style them beautifully. FREE ADVICE: Your yearly eye exam is an insight to your overall health. It’s of utmost importance to be proactive and protect your eyes. PICTURED: John Bass.

Bass Eye Care

2702 S. Hulen St. Fort Worth, Texas 76109

817.615.9290

basseyecare.com

basseyecare@gmail.com

Breaking Ground on Fort Worth Magazine’s Dream Street 2023

The third iteration of the massive project that showcases three luxury homes will take place in the Oak Alley subdivision in Colleyville.

BY BRIAN KENDALL

The construction of three multi-milliondollar homes has commenced, marking the beginning stages of Fort Worth Magazine’s Dream Street 2023. Settling in just northwest of Fort Worth in the Oak Alley subdivision in Colleyville, the annual Dream Street brings some of the area’s top industry professionals to construct the most jaw-dropping residences you’ve ever seen. The homes, which

will open for touring in October 2023, will exhibit the latest in building techniques, technology, and home design.

This year’s trio of builders include Brian Michael of Distinctive Homes, Nick Smith of Kensington Custom Homes, and — back for the fourth time in a row — John Webb of Heritage Homes. The distinct homes, each with over 6,800 square feet and sitting on three-quarters of an acre, will be built in three different and

eye-catching styles: Mediterranean, English Arts and Crafts, and Tuscany. The homes’ designers include veterans of the project, Susan Semmelmann of Semmelmann Interiors and Traci Darden of Elements of Design. Coming on board for her first Dream Street project is Angela Hough of Heritage Design Studio.

As in years past, the magazine is partnering with a Wish with Wings, a local 501(c) organization that grants wishes to children with lifethreatening medical diagnoses. The organization is Dream Street’s main beneficiary, and all proceeds from touring will go to this heartwarming charity.

And, if you’re interested in touring, it’s never too early to start planning — you know, maybe hold off on that months-long cruise around the Mediterranean. The planned completion date for the three homes is October 2023, when the high-end adobes will open to the public for touring, and our magazine will publish a special issue dedicated to the completion of the massive undertaking.

Like all previous Dream Homes and houses associated with Dream Street, all three homes are listed — all above $4 million. Rand White Real Estate Services will be handling the listings of all three homes.

This article marks the beginning of coverage for the upcoming Dream Street. We’ll be keeping our readers and Dream Street fans up to date with monthly articles related to the project in our magazine. But, if you need more than a simple monthly fill of content, you can stay up to date on construction progress, home listings, and more via our dedicated Dream Street website, dream.fwtx.com.

Introducing Our Newest Dream Street 2023 Project Partners!

FortWorthMagazine’s Dream Street wouldn’t be possible without the partnerships of local home industry professionals. Our project partners bring talent, passion, and experience to the project and are an integral part to bringing the homes to life.

PARTICIPATING PARTNERS

HERITAGE HOMES

Appliances: The Jarrell Company

Architect: Arch House Collaborative

Artificial Grass: Wintergreen Synthetic Grass

Cabinets Kitchen: The Kitchen Source

Cabinets Closets: Closet Factory

Counter Top Fabrication: Absolute Stone & Tile, Inc.

Counter Top Materials: Klz Stone Supply, Inc.

Drywall And Texture: Alliance Drywall Inc.

Fireplaces Interior: Fireside Hearth & Home

Flooring Wood & Carpet: Galvan Floors

Flooring Tile Material: Daltile

Framing: Lone Star Framing & Construction Llc

Garage Doors & Openers: Open Up Garage Doors

Glass (Shower-Mirror-Etc): Galactic Glass

Hvac (Materials And Labor): Interior Climate Experts

Insulation: Texas Insulation

Interior Designer: Susan Semmelmann Interiors

Landscape/Irrigation/Grade: Guardado

Landscaping

Low Voltage/Security/Av: Multimedia Solutions

Patio Furniture: Yard Art Patio & Fireplace

Plumbing Labor & Supplies: Pro Serve

Plumbing

Roofing/Flashing: Tarrant Roofing

KENSINGTON CUSTOM HOMES

Appliances: The Jarrell Company

Architect: Heritage Design Studio & Interiors

Cabinets Kitchen: The Kitchen Source

Counter Top Fabrication: Absolute Stone & Tile, Inc.

Counter Top Materials: Klz Stone Supply, Inc.

Drywall And Texture: Alliance Drywall Inc.

Electrician-X: Prewitt Electrical Services

Fireplaces Interior: Overhead Door Company Of Fort Worth

Flooring Wood And Carpet: Vintage Floors

Flooring Tile Material: Daltile

Front Door & Gate: Silverado Custom Door & Window

Garage Doors & Openers: Overhead Door Company Of Fort Worth

Glass (Shower-Mirror-Etc): Galactic Glass

Insulation: Texas Insulation

Interior Designer: Heritage Design Studio & Interiors

Landscape/Irrigation/Grade: Guardado Landscaping

Low Voltage/Av/Security: H Customs

Patio Furniture: Yard Art Patio & Fireplace

Plumbing Fixtures: The Jarrell Company

Pool: Claffey Pools

Roofing/Flashing: Texas Tile Roofing

Cabinets Kitchen: The Kitchen Source

Counter Top Materials: Levantina

Drywall And Texture: Alliance Drywall

Fireplaces In/Out Isokerns: Fireside Hearth & Home

Fireplaces Interior: Fireside Hearth & Home

Flooring Wood & Carpet: Galvan Floors

Flooring Tile Material: Daltile

Glass (Shower-Mirror-Etc): Galactic Glass

Insulation: Texas Insulation

Interior Designer: Elements Of Design

Landscape/Irrigation/Grade: Guardado Landscaping

Patio Furniture: Yard Art Patio & Fireplace

Plumbing Labor & Supplies: Pro Serve

Plumbing

Pool: Blue Water Pools

BRIAN MICHAEL DISTINCTIVE HOMES

Understanding the value of heritage is a belief we don’t take lightly. Fort Worth is our home and has been since 1925. The memories we’ve made and the community we share is what we believe to be the driving force behind this great city we call home. For more than 90 years we have grown with you and will continue to for many years to come.

Thank you, Fort Worth.

Give Back

There’s nothing more rewarding than giving back and making a difference in the lives of people in this great community. As the city’s magazine — which has the eyes and ears of some of Fort Worth’s most affluent and philanthropic citizens — we feel a responsibility to give back to the people of the city that is our namesake, which is why Philanthropy is one of our core values.

Every year, Fort Worth Magazine sponsors more than 100 charity events, which range from luncheons to black-tie galas. The following promotional section is devoted to these charities and their fundraisers. We invite you to consciously peruse and consider lending a helping hand by either making a donation or attending these events.

Dec. 1

Arts Gala 2022

TCU College of Fine Arts

Dec. 2

Home for the Holidays Gala Presbyterian Night Shelter

Dec. 3

Margarita Ball 2022

Children’s Charities of Fort Worth

Dec. 21

Armed Forces Bowl Kickoff Luncheon 2022

Armed Forces Bowl

Dec. 22

Armed Forces Bowl 2022

Armed Forces Bowl

We hope you can join us for next year’s event!

Thank you TO OUR SPONSORS

Gold Sponsor

Bronze Sponsors

Thanks to our community’s support, the Make-A-Wish North Texas Wranglers & Wishes event was a huge success! Together, we celebrated the power of a wish come true and raised funds to grant wishes for local children facing critical illnesses.

W.R. "Bob" & Jerri

Watt

Print Media Sponsor

This December, the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl returns to Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth for its 20th anniversary. Tickets are on sale now. Don’t miss your opportunity to honor our nation’s armed forces. 12.22.22 | AMON G. CARTER STADIUM | 6:30PM

Take a magical photo with Santa Claus while making a difference with a donation supporting the local charities of The Greatest Gift Catalog Ever. We are proud to partner with The Shops at Clearfork for this special community event. For tickets and details, visit www.ClearforkSantaPhotos2022.eventbrite.com or scan the QR code below.

Alan & Sarah Bennett with Joe & Barbara Penshorn Elizabeth Crofford

Ted & Delynn Crofford

Roger & Sondra Lehman

Robert & Dawn Zuilhof

Toby & Jennifer Ardoyno with Toni Rose

Rickey & Ellen Brantley The Christenberry Group

Brian & Tamara Cook Linda Christie with Janeen Lamkin

Jerry & Melinda Johnston Robert & Kelly Keller

John & Laura Rutledge

Alan & Roxanne Shipman

Hahnfeld Hoffer

PRINT IS MEMORABLE.

Print creates an emotional connection. Print builds relationships.

Physical material is more “real” to the brain, involves more emotional processing, is better connected to memory, with greater internalization of ads—all important for brand associations.

(FORBES)

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (required by 39 U.S.C. 3685).Title of Publication:Fort Worth Magazine Publication No.1536-8939 Date of filing:11/15/22.Frequency of Issue (Monthly) Number of issues published annually:12 Annual subscription price is $23.95. Complete mailing address of Publication:6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste.130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116.Complete mailing address of Headquarters of general business office of publisher: Panther City Media Group, LP, 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste.130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116.Names and complete mailing address of Publisher and Editor, Publisher:Hal A. Brown, 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste.130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116;Editor:Brian Kendall, 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste.130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116;Owners:Panther City Media Group LP, 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste.130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116, Hal A. Brown, 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste.130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116. Known bondholders, mortgages and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amounts of bonds, mortgages, or other securities:None .Tax status:has not changed during preceding 12 months. Publication Title:Fort Worth Magazine Issue date for circulation:12/2022. a. Total Number of Copies (Net press Run). No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date 13,962. b. Legitimate Paid and/or Requested Distribution(By Mail and Outside the Mail). (1)Outside-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541. (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies)515. (2)In-County Paid/ Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies)7155. (3)Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS 2515. (4)Requested Copies Distributed By Other Mail Classes Through the USPS (e.g., First-Class Mail)0. c. Total Paid and/or Requested Distribution [Sum of 15b. (1), (2), (3), and (4)]10185. d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail) (1) Outside County Nonrequested Copies as stated on PS Form 3541 (include sample copies, request over 3 years old, requests induce by a premium, bulk sales and request including association requests, names obtained from business directories, lists and other sources27. (2)In-County Nonrequested Copies as stated on PS Form 3541 (include sample copies, request over 3 years old, requests induce by a premium, bulk sales and request including association requests, names obtained from business directories, lists and other sources)379. (3)Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail (e.g., First-Class Mail, notrequestor copies mailed in excess of 10% limit mailed at Standard Mail or Package Services rates)0. (4)Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail (Include Pickup Stands, Trade Shows, Showrooms and Other Sources)3191. e.Total Nonrequested Distribution(Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), and (4))3597. f. Total Distribution(Sum of 15c. and 15e.)13789. g. Copies not Distributed1612. h. Total(Sum of 15f. And 15g.)15394. l. Percent Paid and/or Requested(15c. Divided by 15f. times 100)74%.

(Marketing Sherpa, 2017)

On Sunday, Nov. 6, Gracie and Elmo, a pair of gorillas at the Fort Worth Zoo, welcomed a baby boy. This marks the second-ever birth of a western lowland gorilla — a critically endangered species — at the nationally acclaimed zoo. The birth of the new baby is part of the zoo’s cooperative breeding program for gorillas, which helps maintain a “healthy, self-sustained population of the vulnerable species to help prevent extinction,” according to a Fort Worth Zoo press release The above photo was provided to us by the Fort Worth Zoo.

So you’ve snapped a cool pic of the city. We want to see it. Tag your photos on Instagram with #fwtxmag. The winning image will get published on this page — so hit us with your best shot. main line 817.560.6111 | subscriptions 800.856.2032 | website fwtx.com

@fortworthzoo

Family owned and operated. Purchase online or in-store and deliver to your door step. New state-of-the-art showroom coming soon.

We Drive the Difference:

¡ Triple Crown Lincoln Promise which includes:

- 2 years of oil changes, tire rotations, & multipoint inspections.

¡ Triple Crown Lincoln Valet Service which includes:

- Online or over the phone sales purchase and delivery

- Service pick-up and delivery

Family Owned and Operated since 1986. We tailor the purchase experience to fit your needs, not ours; because we don’t just want to sell you a vehicle, we want to build a relationship and become your trusted advisor for all purchases and service.

Pictured: Stephen Gilchrist, Dealer Operator; Dustin Rodgers, GM, Triple Crown Lincoln.

Custom Service

Nathan Orr understands the importance of personalized service tailored to customers’ needs. Orr is founder/owner of Republic Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., an HVAC company that services Dallas and the surrounding area. Throughout the years, his company has grown in numbers but “always kept a laser-sharp focus on excellent customer service.” In fact, the company’s website says its motto, “Revolutionizing the Customer Experience,” is the heart of the business. And to assist him with his professional vehicle needs, Orr turns to Park Place Motorcars Arlington, who also provide the highest level of custom-fit client service.

Throughout the years, this Dallas entrepreneur has bought an array of Mercedes-Benz vans from the award-winning dealership, including his most recent purchase of two 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 Cargo Standard Roof w/144” WB vans. The spacious,

dependable, and high-tech van gives him all the interior space, power, and cuttingedge features he needs. Orr returns to Park Place for its seamless, simplified car-buying experience, saving him significant time to complete transactions. He says buying a car through Park Place sales associate Kenneth Erwin is an absolute breeze. “Ken brought [the van] to me on the job site, and I signed the papers on the hood in the street and got back to work!” Orr says. “Park Place is My Place because Kenneth understands my busy schedule and doesn’t waste my time.”