Did you know your heart age can be different than your actual age? It’s true. Plus, understanding your heart age can go a long way towards your overall health. Our Heart Health Assessment is a simple 5-minute online tool to determine your heart age and potential risk factors. The assessment will help you identify if you could benefit from heart and vascular care. From screenings, managing heart rhythm disorders, vascular and cardiac rehabilitation and anything in between, a specialist on the medical staff at a Texas Health hospital can help you be young at heart for years to come.
Keeping On
COVID-19 brings out the spirit of Fort Worth as small businesses and decision-makers alike fight on toward survival.
COVID-19
8 Fried Chicken at Bonnell’s and To-Go Margaritas
An editor’s adventure in takeout food.
12 Queued Up in Quarantine
What we’ve been bingeing, reading, and listening to in isolation.
14 XFL, We Hardly Knew Ye
An obit for a short-lived football league.
16 Can’t Stop the Beat
City?
BY
Fortress Festival hits the skip button on 2020.
A reminder to cowboy up.
CLOSE
PHOTO
CRYSTAL WISE
From Home
Around early March, I remember looking at the editorial lineup for our May issue.
A piece called “Our City’s Growing Pains” was to be our cover story — an article I had assigned to the very talented Rick Mauch that was supposed to take a deep dive into how Fort Worth was handling its recent influx of new residents. Rick called that day to express concern about the piece. “No one wants to talk about city planning and population booms when there’s a pandemic on the horizon,” he said. It took some convincing — at the time, my crystal ball didn’t show any mandated self-quarantines or mounds of Styrofoam containers from takeout strewn about my house — but I eventually pulled the plug on the story. As the city’s magazine, it is our job to report on what’s happening in the city, and with that responsibility comes the need to, at times, improvise. When we decided that it was in the best interest of our readers to focus this issue on the effect COVID-19 has had on Fort Worth, there was some internal debate over how we would present this. We have always prided ourselves on being a positive publication, highlighting the good in the city. Yet, our (mostly my) first thoughts were to make it grim and near-apocalyptic. By this time, we had started working from home, so please excuse a bit of pessimism. But, after I had interviewed a couple of amazing Fort Worthians for the “Who Will Save Our City” feature (page 36), I started singing a different tune; it was important for us to emphasize our city’s resilience in a time of crisis. Of course, it’s not all sanguine. I think we’ve struck a good balance.
If this issue is any metaphor for what’s happening in the grand scheme, I would say that, inevitably, things change while oddly remaining the same. For instance, Mr. Mauch still got the cover story (despite its subject changing), and you’re still reading us (despite the chairs in our office being empty). Stay safe and healthy, my friends.
Brian Kendall EXECUTIVE EDITOR
ON THE COVER: Shot during a cloudy Friday morning in an empty downtown Fort Worth, our photographer (Crystal Wise), art director (Ayla Whittington), and model (Fernando Rojas) braved public spaces soon after the city’s shelter-in-place recommendations. The idea to superimpose the skyline came from Crystal, who also photographed our two features.
Corrections? Comments? Concerns? Send to executive editor Brian Kendall at bkendall@fwtexas.com.
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president mike waldum
EDITORIAL
executive editor brian kendall
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editorial interns taylor brumbaugh, scotlyn ogle
ART
creative director craig sylva
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contributing photographers richard rodriguez, truitt rogers, crystal wise
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ADVERTISING
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CORPORATE
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Workin’ From Home
Like
little different — and felt a little comfier — these past few weeks. Here’s a little peek at our
Best Of
Oh yeah, you bet this is still happening. Our annual Best Of Party is set for July 17. We’re taking you to Mag-aritaville for a Jimmy Buffett-inspired celebration of Fort Worth’s best food, drinks, music, and culture. Keep an eye on our website and social media for ticket information and updates. fwtx.com/best-top/best-of
Best Companies to Work For
Love where you work (even if you’re out of office for the moment)? Nominate your company for Fort Worth Inc.’s Best Companies to Work For in Fort Worth. Deadline to apply is May 15.
fwtx.com/business/bestcompanies-to-work-for
TRENDING ONLINE
Visit fwtx.com for the full story.
» Bass Hall Reschedules ‘Hamilton’ in Light of COVID-19 Bass Performance Hall isn’t throwing away Fort Worth’s shot at seeing “Hamilton.”
» Fort Worth Film Company Gets National Attention for ‘Mark Dion’ Documentary “The Perilous Texas Adventures of Mark Dion” will be available on Amazon Prime in May.
6 Local Shops to Get Face
Masks Local makers and boutiques have been creating their own masks to help locals stay safe — and also look chic.
follow us for more @fwtxmag
COVID-19
Fried Chicken at Bonnell’s and To-Go Margaritas
A peek at Fort Worth’s COVID-19 takeout scene.
BY SCOTT NISHIMURA
Sometimes, you just need a piece of fried chicken in your fingers. That most recent call came during breakfast on a recent Saturday morning when the Fort Worth restaurateur Jon
Bonnell posted a Facebook message about that evening’s takeout family meal at his places: “Yep, back by popular demand, crispy fried chicken.” “Ruh-roh,” I said, reading my Facebook feed. “What,” said my wife,
curiously. Fried chicken night at Bonnell’s, I said. “Well,” she said, “if you like.”
Now, Julie wasn’t volunteering to wait in the line. From the day in midMarch when Bonnell decided to close his Bonnell’s and Waters restaurants to just prix fixe daily family-style dinners, the line at the Bryant Irvin Road-Southwest Boulevard location has typically backed up to the Chisholm Trail by 3 p.m. most days, an hour before the 4 p.m. open of drive-through distribution. But this was fried chicken night — enough chicken, salad, green beans, mashed potatoes, biscuits, gravy, and brownies for four, just $10 per head. I knew I’d have to be in the line by 2:30 p.m. or risk being shut out.
Sure enough, the line was backed up to the Chisholm Trail by the time I got in it. But I took plenty of reading material. And if COVID-19 is, by some folks’ estimation, a plague upon the earth for evil and sin, at least the weather was good, and the wait in line comfortable. And little more than two hours later (about 30-35 minutes wait once the restaurant opened), I was through the line.
Yes, I could have gone to KFC or Popeyes and been in and out in minutes. But the panko-coated, delightfully salted chicken is, um, a plausible impostor. And the Bonnell’s lines — owing to the years of community goodwill he’s built since opening in 2001 — quickly picked up a cult following during COVID-19 and resulting business closures and employee layoffs. This was my third time through the line — the first, turkey dinners for my family, and the second, our offering of baked ziti in a meal train for some friends from church.
Julie and I saw the coming impact of COVID-19 on restaurants earlier
Melt Ice Creams’
Kari Crowe-Seher and Chef Jon Bonnell, working the takeout line
Fast. Friendly. Fair.
Here's the deal.
AUTO GROUP
than it hit Texas, having spent the first week of March on spring break in San Francisco. Chinatown was already dead, and traffic in the best restaurants and districts across the city was way off. One evening, we were one of two families eating at North Beach Pizza, a San Francisco institution. We were in the city when the federal government allowed the COVID-ravaged Grand Princess cruise ship to dock at the Port of Oakland. A week later, the city shut down all nonessential businesses.
Restaurateurs in Fort Worth were already worried. The week we returned from California, I ordered a couple dozen doughnuts for my officemates (we switched to working from home a week and a half later) from K Donuts on the Southside, our favorite doughnut shop. “Are you still working?” one of the owners asked then.
Julie and I have been spreading our takeout dollars around over the last month. Last week, while out on a lunchtime interview and photo shoot in The Foundry District, the fourcheeseburger and fries, $30 family meal at M&O Station was a convenient pickup welcomed by my family when I got home. M&O’s to-go menu is expansive. You must call ahead and order, even if you’re already standing in the parking lot, as I was.
My deadline week go-to is always a garlic chicken from Szechuan Chinese Restaurant on Fort Worth’s West Side. This time, I had it delivered via Favor — as efficient as I’ve always experienced, although you definitely pay for the convenience — to the front porch home office of my home on the Near Southside, instead of my regular office on the far West Side.
If you want to guarantee consistency in your takeout food, you’ll get it, of course, from restaurants whose model was already takeout and delivery. We’ve had great pizza delivered by i Fratelli on the Near Southside — takeout and delivery was already their thing — and another great pizza we picked up from Buffalo Bros at TCU. Grab-and-go salads from The Meat Board on Camp Bowie — we also purchased some fine rib-eyes for the grill — and takeout tacos from Torchy’s Tacos have also found their way to our table.
We’ve ordered in from old faves like Lili’s Bistro (family four pack for $49, and we chose the elk sausage pasta entrée) and Piola Italian Restaurant & Garden, where we ordered eggplant parmigiana, penne pesto, and primavera.
We’ve tried some new restaurants, including hefty takeout orders twice from Derek Allan’s Texas Barbecue on the Near Southside. We’ve taken out fast-food only twice, both from Sonic and both on the way back home from shopping.
For dessert, the freezer has been full of Melt Ice Creams from the West
Magnolia Avenue store, so much so that my wife and I worry about our A1C levels. You order ahead and are met curbside by an employee. Bonnell’s also is selling Melt pints in his lines. We’d have eaten more so far, but I spaced once and accidently drove to Braum’s; by the time I backtracked, Melt was closed.
We’ve taken advantage of the convenience of to-go alcoholic beverages, allowed temporarily during COVID-19 by Gov. Greg Abbott. We’ll go ahead and join the chorus of voices asking Abbott to make this permanent, so long as everyone behaves.
Of course, even the best takeout doesn’t replace the experience of hanging out in your favorite restaurants. It’s springtime, the best time to hang out on the patio at Joe T. Garcia’s, eating oozing enchiladas and nachos and absorbing cold margaritas. The restaurateurs look forward to that day, too.
Bonnell, for one, has been gratified by customers’ response to his family meals. But catering fell off a cliff, and he had to lay off 240 employees and cut back to a skeletal crew. “It’s not the way I would choose to do business.”
Melt Ice Creams is partnering with other establishments to sell its pints.
With
Queued Up in Quarantine
music venues, movie theaters,
and, well, anything that requires human interaction temporarily halting services, our editors give some advice on how best to stay entertained while sheltering in place.
BY SAMANTHA CALIMBAHIN AND BRIAN KENDALL
“Inside Friend”
by
Leon Bridges and John Mayer
It doesn’t hold a candle to his superior recent collab with fellow Texans Khruangbin, but it’s a sweet Leon Bridges tune, nonetheless. The song was also co-written by metroplex natives Jason Burt and Keite Young of Medicine Man Revival, and it’s called “Inside Friend” (insert quip about it being the perfect shelter-inplace song here).
— Brian
“You Will Be Found” from the musical, “Dear Evan Hansen”
I got serious emotions after a recent Zoom-style performance of the song “You Will Be Found.” Its lyrics couldn’t be more appropriate for the times: “So let the sun come streaming in / ‘Cause you’ll reach up and you’ll rise again / Lift your head and look around / You will be found.” I can’t wait for Bass Hall to reopen so I can see this live — in person — next year.
— Samantha
Big Wonderful Thing: A History of Texas by Stephen Harrigan
I’d say now is the time to tackle a 1,000-page, exhaustive narrative of our state’s history. The book reads like a few dozen mini biographies sewn together to create a tapestry that’s a wartsand-all look at our state’s troubled and triumphant history. I’d put this in the mustread category for any history buff.
— Brian
Star Wars: Thrawn by Timothy Zahn
Being forced to stay far, far away from society will turn anyone toward the Dark Side, I think. I’m only about halfway through as I write this, but so far, the plot has kept me intrigued, and I’m curious to see how Thrawn’s story ultimately ties in with that of the Galactic Empire.
— Samantha
Books
Shows
“Tiger King” (Netflix)
By now, you’ve surely seen the memes and heard somebody exclaim, “Carole Baskins killed her husband,” at least once. The very real and disturbing characters and the story that borders on the preposterous have made this Netflix original ripe for iconic status. If you have yet to tune into the episodic documentary that’s recently taken pop culture by storm, I can’t recommend it enough. — Brian
“Star Trek: Picard” (CBS All Access)
Yes, I’ve made my peace with being both a “Star Wars” fan and a “Star Trek” fan. In this show, Jean-Luc Picard is forced out of retirement to find an android built using the code of his beloved colleague, Data. “Picard” doesn’t quite feel like an old “Star Trek” show; instead, it’s got more of a sophistication and artful edge to it.
— Samantha
Movies
“Extra Ordinary”
(Grand Berry Theater, grandberrytheater.com)
Starring a wealth of unknown Irish actors (and “Saturday Night Live” veteran Will Forte), this charming horror comedy film is sure to become a cult classic, a la “Zombieland.” The flick will keep you laughing, and you’ll also be helping out a great local business in the Grand Berry Theater. The $12 price for virtual entrance might seem steep, but it’s money well spent.
— Brian
“Onward”
(Disney Plus)
I was super pumped Disney Plus started releasing movies earlier than originally planned, one of them being “Onward,” which I surprisingly enjoyed a lot. Now, it’s not quite the level of Pixar’s past hits, but it was pretty entertaining. And, yes, it’s sad — because if you don’t cry watching a Pixar movie, is it even a Pixar movie?
9 Local Streams
Catch these local artists, musicians, and businesses partaking in virtual entertainment.
BY BRIAN KENDALL
Abraham Alexander: Find the Light
Soulful musician Abraham Alexander strikes up deep convos with local creatives who have inspired him. The first episodes, which air on Instagram, included close friends Leon Bridges and Sunflowerman. instagram.com/abrahamalexander
Sam Anderson’s Hunker in the Bunker
The Quaker City Night Hawk, who doesn’t appear worried about the temporary closure of his local barbershop, is performing new tunes and telling stories on the Main at South Side Facebook page every Friday at 8 p.m. facebook.com/ massfw
The Modern: Being There
The Modern’s been killing the livestream game, thanks to its prolific new YouTube series, “Being There.” For the past two weeks, it’s been providing followers with near-daily content that includes weekly art tutorials and curators slowly dissecting a single piece of art. The videos are both meditative and educational. facebook.com/themodernfw
Art Conspiracy: Art Con(cert)
The Cush, Acid Carousel, and Ronnie Heart have each graced the Art Conspiracy Facebook page for a livestream concert followed by a Q&A. And there’s surely more to come. artcon.org/live
Main at South Side
The music venue appears to be putting on as many shows virtually as it did in person pre-COVID-19. In addition to its partnership with Sam Anderson, you’ll see a Fort Worth mainstay on its channel almost any day of the week. facebook.com/ massfw
Late Stream with Dead Vinyl
The pandemic caused this up-and-coming group to cut its tour short, but it has been regularly livestreaming on Instagram and showcasing some new tunes. facebook.com/deadvinyltx
Simon Flory
Talented folky has been doing some great Facebook and Instagram livestreams. Stay tuned to his social channels for updates. facebook.com/slflory
Lorena Leigh: Home Chirch
Going through the plethora of this singer/songwriter’s past streams — which includes live performances, interviews, singalongs, and more — would be equivalent to re-watching all of “Game of Thrones.” facebook.com/lorenaleighmusic
Kimbell from Home Story Time
— Samantha
The ideal livestream for those sheltering in place with kiddos. Every week, educator Alli Rogers Andreen reads a new picture book aloud in Mother Goose-like fashion. facebook.com/ kimbellart
(We also recommend checking out Kimbell’s virtual collection at kimbellart.com/kimbell-at-home)
*If you’re tuning in, remember to support our local musicians by tipping them for their amazing efforts.
XFL, We Hardly Knew Ye
What looks like the end of the XFL (again) breaks my heart.
BY MATT PAYNE
Ididn’t think I’d be writing about an emerging football league’s premature conclusion this year. Then again, I didn’t think I’d be working from home for more than a month, so here we go.
Over the past few days, the XFL has laid off all its employees and filed for bankruptcy, effectively thrusting two proverbial nails into the league’s coffin. These consequences follow the cancelation of the revived league’s season, necessary to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and in line with cancelations from the NBA, NHL, and countless other sporting events.
The XFL’s revival didn’t excite me too much when the announcement was made a little over a year ago. But I’d learn there was more than meets the eye, and I ended up falling in love.
Any memories I have of the XFL’s first take are hazy, like a bizarre fever dream. The original, lone
season way back when in 2001, with its chaotic gameplay, gimmicks, and WWE-esque showmanship, wasn’t particularly inviting to my not even 10-year-old tastes. I hadn’t even developed my toxic relationship with the Dallas Cowboys franchise by then, and the far more seasoned sports fans I know seem to merely regard the XFL as an obscure meme.
I’m now 25. I love watching sports, especially in person, and have developed a more profound appreciation for spectatorship and competition in general that a lot of people share. Still, I only had mild curiosity at best; I didn’t think I’d like the XFL.
Then Super Bowl LIV came and went, and this destitute Cowboys loyalist needed something to be excited over. Earlier this year, the Dallas Renegades began their courtship for my support.
And, yes, the quality of football left much to be desired, but 1) the Cowboys routinely leave me with
much to be desired, and 2) I had an easy time supporting the blue-collar up-and-comers trotting onto the turf at the repurposed Globe Life Park in Arlington.
Right before the coronavirus lockdown, it all became real for me on Sunday, March 1, when a friend of mine with Hear This Now, a podcast group that organized live music before games, scored me a free ticket for the first (and only) Texas Throwdown against the Houston Roughnecks.
This Cowboys fan is a Texas Rangers fan, too, so it was quite surreal seeing a full-fledged football field jerry-rigged atop a baseball field at which I watched many innings growing up. Logistics aside, just like any other sport, the roar of thousands of fans intensified the closer it got to kickoff. I was excited.
As the game wore on, I realized that even though these guys weren’t hanging with the millionaires of Jerry World across the street and were still ironing out kinks in sloppy plays, I couldn’t help but constantly smile and shout as a fan. Every single one of those players had a reason for why they were suited up in ’Gades gear and not on an NFL roster. I still saw something in them. I saw vigor.
Even after an incomplete season, a handful of XFL players have managed to make it onto NFL rosters. Breakout star P.J. Walker, formerly of the Houston Roughnecks, now has a legitimate shot to be QB1 for the Carolina Panthers, having signed shortly after the XFL season was canceled.
The XFL was going to be the missing piece for a lot of these guys. Hokey marketing campaign or not, #ForTheLoveOfFootball had some truth in it.
Here’s to you, XFL. Thanks for the fleeting joy you gave to many who didn’t realize they needed you.
Can’t Stop the Beat
With its signature event canceled for the year, Fortress Festival finds other ways to stay on tempo.
BY SAMANTHA CALIMBAHIN
These are strange times for businesses — perhaps even stranger for event companies whose
livelihood depends on the exact opposite of social distancing.
It’s especially strange for the company that runs one of the most
popular events in the city.
Fortress Festival co-founder Alec Jhangiani recalls exactly two weeks in March when things were especially “strange and tortuous.” The COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing restrictions were quickly developing, all while events were canceling left and right, leaving the festival in limbo as to whether or not it would move forward.
But Fortress can breathe a little easier, Jhangiani says, now that organizers have decided on the festival’s new date: April 24 – 25, 2021.
“When everything’s out of your hands, when you don’t have control of a situation, it is what it is,” Jhangiani says. “Now that we’ve settled on a new date and know
our path forward, the stress of it is gone, outside of the emotional stress of the situation — now, we’re able to just focus on staying healthy.”
Fortress Festival was originally scheduled to take place in April this year on two stages in Fort Worth’s Cultural District. The lineup boasted big-name acts like Diplo, Miguel, and Cuco, alongside local acts like PRIZM and Son of Stan. No doubt the city’s music buffs were already marking their calendars and picking their outfits for the event, which would have been in its fourth year, while one unfortunate magazine — ahem, ours — was going to press with a “survival guide” for the whole deal.
But, alas, the pandemic hit, and Tarrant County banned gatherings of more than 250, eventually leading to broader shelter-in-place orders that would encourage all citizens to stay home.
Jhangiani says Fortress had plenty of reasons to skip the festival altogether in 2020. If the festival were to reschedule for later in the year, the only option was to do it in September, and even that seemed uncertain. October was a no-go, as that would have Fortress competing with Austin City Limits and Coachella, both rescheduled for that month. Even so, hosting a festival in the fall would make it difficult to turn around and do another festival the next April, so Fortress decided to set its sights on 2021.
As of now, not much should be deviating from the festival’s original plans, Jhangiani says. While he expects most of the lineup to return, so far Fortress has only announced Diplo and Miguel as for-sure performers. If an artist won’t be able
to perform, Fortress promises to replace that artist with another of the same caliber.
“I don’t anticipate there being any lineup changes,” Jhangiani says. “It will just be the same festival copied and pasted into next year.”
But how does a company — whose livelihood depends on drawing big crowds — keep running when there are no crowds to draw at all?
Well, for one, there’s more to Fortress than just Fortress Festival. Jhangiani says he plans to shift focus to another arm of the company, Fortress Creative, which specializes in marketing, design, branding, and other content production (live events are a part of that arsenal). He’s also hoping existing capital and possible federal funding will help Fortress stay afloat.
The timing was actually rather fortunate, Jhangiani says, as the decision to postpone happened right before the festival made commitments with the majority of its vendors — that doesn’t mean there wasn’t money lost in marketing, personnel, and production, however.
“The vast majority of it, we won’t get, so there’s definitely a loss there,” Jhangiani says. “It could’ve been a lot worse. We’re grateful that it wasn’t.”
Meanwhile, Fortress is also hoping to launch other events between now and next April, which Jhangiani says the company has been wanting to do for a while. Online streaming is one option Fortress is exploring. And, hopefully, when the pandemic ends, Fortress can also host midsize concerts, specifically at Wild Acre Brewing Co.’s location, south of downtown. Fortress has signed on to be the promoter of that venue.
But, when the craziness blows over, the folks at Fortress are looking forward to returning to what they do best — planning one of the city’s biggest events of the year. Now, with more time on their hands.
“The safe assumption is, it would be just the same festival we were planning to have this year,” Jhangiani says. “Our hope would certainly be that we’re able to add more to it, and we have that time to see if opportunities arise.”
Q: How do you think COVID-19 will impact the way festivals are held in the future?
“I think it will be the same as for any of the other businesses (restaurants, retailers, etc.). Increased sanitation, crowd control, possibly fever checks. All of the precautions that are being put into place/considered for controlling spread overall will just apply to festivals and events.”
—Alec Jhangiani, co-founder of Fortress Festival
Q: So, I bought a ticket for 2020. What now?
Tickets purchased in 2020 will be honored in 2021 and will also come with perks like additional tickets for 2021, as well as tickets for 2022. All existing ticket holders should have already received an email with more information, so just check your inbox. Refunds are also available upon request.
Keeping On
Despite empty streets, masked residents, and struggling businesses making our city close to unrecognizable, Fort Worth’s tenacity and communal spirit remain. From those hit the hardest to those implementing policies to help, here’s how Cowtown will not only survive the COVID-19 pandemic but thrive once we return to normalcy.
BY RICK MAUCH
STEPHANIE THOMAS DRIVES UP AND DOWN CAMP BOWIE BOULEVARD DAILY, LOOKING FOR SOME HOPE THAT LIFE WILL RETURN TO NORMAL.
Instead, she's reminded of a scene from one of those end-of-mankind movies, where some Hollywood A-lister is playing someone believed to be the last human on earth fighting for their survival in a world full of uncertainty. There's no one on the streets, a harrowing kind of quiet she wishes would be disrupted by the sound of children playing or a horn honking. Oh, how she'd welcome a traffic jam — the kind that filled her and many others with frustration in times past. Stephanie has the time to do this exploring because Drew's Place, the popular soul food restaurant she and her husband, Drew, started in 1987, is closed due to COVID-19. After years of standing out from so many other establishments, their restaurant is now the same as a lot of other businesses — empty and dark.
Still, Stephanie works hard to remain optimistic. She has to for the many friends who made their restaurant the success it was before the pandemic that enveloped the world.
And while pessimism over ridding the world of the coronavirus sometimes seems as impossible as killing the aforementioned glob of carnivorous goo, she's certain that their restaurant will once again be teeming with those same friends once these dark times have passed.
“I have been blessed with an unbelievable clientele. Not a day goes by that I don't receive calls and text messages on my personal phone asking how we are doing, ‘When are you reopening?’ and the funniest one, ‘Are you considering curbside?’” she said with a laugh. “I don't know how they got my personal number. I guess I must have given it to them at some time, but either way, it's great to know they are there.
“I have no doubt that we — my team included — will survive this, and we feel that our clientele will support us just as they always have in the days to come.”
Down the road, Panther City BBQ coowner Chris Magallanes is hoping the same. While they don't have the long history of
Drew's Place, having just opened in 2018, his restaurant became very popular in a hurry. He's counting on that popularity to bring back the 60% of business coronavirus has taken away when they can come back in, sit down, and visit once again.
In the meantime, among the adaptations he and his employees had to undergo was a learning curve of going strictly to takeout orders.
“Before all of this, we didn’t take phone orders, only walk-up or email preorder,” he said.
To help compensate for the loss of business, the hours they are open at Panther City have been cut back to focus on prime lunch hours. Also, like many others, Chris made the difficult decision to let some parttime employees go, though he focused on ones who had other sources of income so as to lessen the blow. Others who stayed had their hours reduced.
His encouragement to those employees?
Drew and Stephanie Thomas of Drew's Place
“Stay the course as long as you feel comfortable doing so. We are in this together, and we will do all we can to keep you working,” he said.
“I am doing my best to encourage my employees that we will come back as soon as foot traffic starts back,” Stephanie said.
THERE IS HELP
“I have been blessed with an unbelievable clientele. Not a day goes by that I don’t receive calls and text messages on my personal phone asking how we are doing.”
Stephanie Thomas, co-owner, Drew’s Place
The federal government and the City of Fort Worth have created ways for businesses such as Drew's Place and Panther City to receive help. At the time of this article, Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price said the city was working on a small business fund. However, there are a number of other resources available that she said can be accessed outside of the Small Business Assistance
(SBA) disaster relief funds. Many of these loan programs can be accessed through the Fort Worth Business Assistance Center. For example, loan amounts can range from $14,000 up to $5 million.
Stephanie, Chris, and countless others have reached out for help. Still, the question is: Will those funds outlast the coronavirus?
“I am in the process of figuring out if and how long I can pay my longtime employees,” Stephanie said. “We are accustomed to paying them when we are closed, but it is
based on a replenishing of a ‘time-off slush fund.’ That fund was depleted for holiday payments, and it usually takes about five months to replenish for summer time off.”
The coronavirus didn't wait until summer. By mid-March, she, Drew, and their employees decided to shut the doors. Unlike some other restaurants, they opted not to have takeout or delivery because Stephanie said the safety of their employees was and remains first and foremost.
“When I talked to the employees, one was very afraid, just the unknown,” she said. “And I understand that. If I can give us some peace of mind by staying home, that's what we'll do.
“Drew and I both have elderly parents. We're both having to look in on them. It's just better this way.”
The initial thinking was they would be closed a couple of weeks, not that big of a deal, considering they regularly closed for lengthy periods during the holiday season. But a couple of weeks became a month, a month became two, and so on.
“I was always under the impression that my business insurance would cover any type of disasters under ‘loss of business income,’” Stephanie said, noting that she, like many more, learned the hard way that their insurance doesn't include coverage against a devastating virus.
“With the restaurant being our only source of income, help must come from somewhere,” she said.
“As a former small-business owner myself, I can only imagine how difficult this is,” Price said. “While the Stay Home – Work Safe order was a difficult decision, the sooner that we can flatten the curve and reduce the spread of the virus, the sooner we can get these businesses back open to the public.
“I want to assure our small businesses
that the economic recovery will be my sole focus when this pandemic is behind us. And the good news is — Fort Worth is known as a community that comes together.”
CHANGES AHEAD
District 3 Fort Worth City Councilman Dr. Brian Byrd said that while he believes recovery will come, he noted most economic experts are calling for a time of up to two years. As a result, he said old ways of doing business and conducting life in general will not be the same for a while — if ever again.
“How long will we greet with an elbow touch versus a handshake, for instance? Some companies may find doing business in China too risky from a business interruption standpoint and move elsewhere in Asia,” Byrd said. “More meetings and events may exist via telecom. Fundraisers may move to a virtual format.”
He does believe once folks are allowed to go out with regularity again, a large boon awaits businesses such as Drew's Place, Panther City, and others.
“Once the sheltering requirement is lifted, I predict we will see a spending surge on everything from eating out to air travel to sports entertainment,” Byrd said.
In the meantime, he said, “The Byrd family is doing takeout at least once a day, and via social media, I am encouraging folks to do the same.”
Byrd also noted that the City of Burleson instituted a new website that allows citizens to purchase gift cards from local businesses, and in just a few days, over 4,000 residents participated. At the time of this article, he said he was working to get something similar started in Fort Worth.
“We are encouraging our residents to support small businesses however they can,” Price said. “We are ordering dinner from local restaurants, buying gift cards for future use, and sharing resources through our social media platforms. Everything, no matter how big or small, helps right now.”
Price also encouraged small businesses to look into the Small Business Paycheck Protection Program, which is part of the CARES Act passed by the federal government. It provides economic relief to individuals and businesses. She also stressed Facebook's Small Business Grants Program for assistance.
The City of Fort Worth has also started the new Small Business and Economic Recovery Advisory Committee, which is comprised of partner organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, business leaders, financing
institutions, and workforce development organizations.
“The focus is to compile and share all opportunities that relate to business assistance in this rapidly changing environment to ensure that the community is aware of what options and resources are available to them as they work to weather this pandemic,” Price said. “The group will also be providing recommendations to the Economic Development Department for new initiatives to support economic relief and recovery.”
EFFECT ON NONPROFIT RESTAURANT
Taste Community Restaurant operates differently than others. When dining there, folks pay what they think is a fair price or whatever they can spare.
The restaurant is part of the Taste Project, a nonprofit that, as their website states, was established simply to feed people one community at a time. They cite a statistic that one of every six Americans faces the reality that they may not be able to provide for their next meal. In Tarrant County, they note that 36% of this food-insecure population lives in limbo above the poverty level, too much income to qualify for government help but not enough income to guarantee a steady food supply.
That is where they come in, and though the coronavirus has made their task more challenging, they are also doing what they can with a takeout menu.
“Community is an important part of who we are, and connecting with people over food is what we do. However, this is not what our community needs right now,” Taste spokesperson and co-owner Julie Williams (with husband Jeff) said.
Julie said that unfortunately the Taste Project, which opened Taste Community Restaurant in 2017, didn't have funding set aside for pandemics and temporary closures.
“We are leaning into our individual donors and loyal diners during this time,” she said. She said up to 75% of their funding comes
An empty Fort Worth Stockyards
from Taste Community Restaurant, and with no dine-in service, the hit has been hard.
“Our existing donors are giving online, and we are encouraging our loyal diners to purchase meal tokens from our website,” she said.
Taste Community Restaurant traditionally operates with 80% volunteer staff, which does help in an area most other businesses can't claim.
“Volunteers are an important part of our organization, and our community needs them to be healthy,” she said. Julie, too, sees a big rebound once the coronavirus has been mastered.
“We anticipate there will be a huge need for our resources, and we need all of our volunteers to be ready. This means we need them to heed the mandates and recommendations of the Tarrant County Public Health Department and the City of Fort Worth for social distancing for now,” she said.
“Our employees will be working to help ensure individuals and families who depend on us for healthy and nutritious food still have access to food during this time.”
SOME FORESIGHT
While she's not claiming she forecast the pandemic that hit the world, Stephanie said she did feel an impending sense of danger coming to our country, unlike anything it's experienced in over a century.
“Upon learning that the virus had spread to the U.S., I was prepared for some type of quarantine/cooling-off period as the cruise ship scenario began to unfold,” she said. “But I never imagined that it would escalate to the level where it is now and for the unforeseeable future. I never could have imagined having to develop a new normal.”
Despite whatever changes brought about by coronavirus, Stephanie said with a small business such as theirs, “It's personal.” And they are counting on that to help resuscitate the business when all is clear.
“Is the food good? Yeah, but you support the people,” she said. “The most rewarding part of all of this is the fact that I have customers inside of the community and
outside of the community that have supported us for the entire 33 years [26 years at the current location] that we have been in business.”
Stephanie said she feels a special favor when, for example, one of her retired customers and his wife, who now live outside of Austin, make the trek to Fort Worth just to eat at Drew's Place. In fact, those same folks called her recently to check on her and Drew, with a promise that they would be returning as soon as things get better.
“They are high risk due to underlying conditions. That means a lot to us, and it is encouragement to keep pressing on,” Stephanie said. “We assure them that we will be there whenever they can get here.”
FOOD FROM OTHER SOURCES
While many restaurants are continuing to offer takeout, many people cannot even afford that. And with many jobs being lost by the hour, some are stepping up to help, such as Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor William Timothy Glynn and a host of volunteers have joined forces with the Tarrant Area Food Bank to provide food to as many as 700 folks in the church parking lot, among other sites — enforcing social distancing, of course, as the cars drive up and the food is brought out to them and placed in the trunk.
“It's amazing to see people volunteer to unload those trucks,” he said. “You have to look for a ray of sunshine, even in a storm.”
Glynn is also part of a group that works to provide food to the homeless population in the city.
“We can't forget about them. Remember the story of the good Samaritan,” he said. “Sometimes a minister has to aim for the ditch.”
District 5 Fort Worth Councilwoman Gyna Bivens is a member of Mount Olive. She had praise for her fellow members, saying they set an example she's glad to see others are following.
“The church stepped up, and we're seeing a lot of people do the same,” she said.
Bivens added that it's important to make sure our neighbors who do have a residence are able to keep it and that elderly people have access to things they need. Yes, the rent will have to be paid sometime, she said, but she is calling upon landlords to do all they can to work with their tenants.
And she never wants to see a scene like she saw at a local store one morning.
“People started lining up at 8:20 (the store opened at 9 a.m.). Two senior citizens walked up, and one had a cane. The way they were chastised and told to go to the end of the line — in the rain — it was disheartening,” she said. “This is a time when we need to care as much as we possibly can.”
GETTING CREATIVE
“Once the sheltering requirement is lifted, I predict we will see a spending surge on everything from eating out to air travel to sports entertainment.”
Dr. Brian Byrd, councilman, District 3
City of Fort Worth Economic Development Director Robert Sturns said creativity could be a key in businesses — particularly small ones — surviving the coronavirus pandemic. In a recent survey by his department, almost half of the responding businesses reported a decrease in revenue by at least 60%. Also, 57% did not have a remote/teleworking policy in place, and 58% did not have company leave policies containing guidance for these types of situations.
“I have seen business owners become very resourceful in shifting to more of an online presence or retooling their
PHOTOS BY CRYSTAL WISE AND KIRK JACKSON
“We are encouraging our residents to support small businesses however they can. We are ordering dinner from local restaurants, buying gift cards for future use, and sharing resources through our social media platforms. Everything, no matter how big or small, helps right now.”
Mayor Betsy Price
manufacturing processes to assist in the relief efforts,” Sturns said.
He added that pivoting operations to get through these trying times, working to keep some level of revenue flowing in while decreasing costs, is critical in moving forward. He also said businesses should also keep informed of all the resources to assist from both a financial and technical aspect, such as the city’s webpage for business, fortworthtexas.gov/COVID-19-business.
And he said businesses should call on each other.
“Lean on other business owners for advice on how they are responding to the pandemic. And don’t be afraid to ask for things like rent concessions, as many landlords are looking into this individually,” he said.
In addition, Sturns said it can't hurt to reach out to your bank to see if they are offering specific funding programs.
“Many institutions are setting up programs for their existing banking clients,” he said.
District 4 Fort Worth Councilman Cary Moon said another option to help businesses is a potential cut in the city budget.
“City governments impact businesses with local fiscal policy, unlike the federal government, which also impacts businesses with monetary policy. For Fort Worth businesses, the best relief/aid the city can offer small businesses through fiscal policy is to reduce taxes,” Moon said. “Every tax dollar that we save today is a tax dollar that we do not have to collect tomorrow.”
Moon also said the post COVID-19 economy provides opportunity for Fort Worth businesses, small and big, if handled properly now.
“Manufacturing, distribution, and sanitation are examples of industries with economic opportunity,” he said. “Further, restrictions on commerce between geographical areas will afford small business growth at the micro level.”
SAME WORSHIP, DIFFERENT FORM
There is life on the other side of the coronavirus. Just ask the Reverend Dr.
Robert Pace of Trinity Episcopal Church.
Pace was the first person in the Fort Worth area to be infected with the coronavirus. And while he recovered, he admits his life may never be the same again.
“In general, I am having to be more intentional in my daily routine. I can’t take for granted even the breath of life,” he said. “This virus is hard on the lungs and on stamina. But it has also made me slow down and appreciate more of the gifts of life.
“I think that’s also what people are learning, whether they have the virus or not.”
However, like businesses and restaurants, churches often have large gatherings of people, and that has required some adjusting, thanks to coronavirus. As has been the case with most churches now, services have gone largely online for Trinity Episcopal. The main thing, Pace said, is people are still worshiping.
“This is so important so that we might keep this virus from spreading. But it’s also essential because we believe that corporate worship is important,” he said. “Of course, God is with us always, no matter where we are. But worshiping together strengthens our bonds, builds our sense of community, and renews our faith and commitment to be God’s loving presence in this world. That’s why we still gather, even though it’s online.”
Pace said parishioners are being creative by using technology to continue Bible studies and other group gatherings, including daily online prayer groups.
Glynn said Mount Olive has made a concerted effort to offer its broadcast services to members of other churches that don't have the technology to put their services online. He stressed that they still belong to their respective churches, but if they cannot attend or worship together there, they are welcome to join the Mount Olive livestream.
“Someone asked me if I thought God is
trying to tell us something. I said not try, he is telling us something,” Glynn said.
Pace said that while he believes people will be able to again gather in their church buildings someday, worship services have been changed forever. But he also thinks it is for the better.
“Before this pandemic, we were not nearly as adept at using technology to remain connected as we are suddenly finding ourselves doing. I can’t imagine that will stop once this crisis ends,” he said. “The message of this has clearly been that the people are the church, and we will continue to use all of these means to connect and reach out to the people, even when we can come back together for our more traditional forms of worship in our building.”
Glynn offered a reminder that “the church started in our homes. Maybe this is the Lord's way of putting it back in our homes.
“Here's the one thing we forget in public worship, the only spectator should be God.
PHOTOS BY KIRK JACKSON
And now that we're back home, the only spectator is God.”
BELIEF IN BETTER ON THE OTHER SIDE
“History shows us that society in the long run will win versus a pandemic,” Moon said. “Our COVID-19 experience will be with us for a lifetime in our employee experiences, customer experiences, and even how we congregate.”
Bivens said that now that dealing with the shock of such a pandemic hitting America is past, we can focus on returning to the America that works together.
“If you think about it, after 9/11 we had the same type of love fest. The type of camaraderie we have now reminds me of that, but it's underlined with a fear we've never known before,” she said. “It's the unknown that makes it scary, and we have to be there for each other, to let each other know we care more than ever.
“I think we, as Americans, have been insulated while we saw things like this happen in China, Japan, Africa. We were
thinking it can't happen to us. Well, here we are.”
Price expressed gratitude for the citizens of her city for joining forces in the fight against the unseen enemy. While the future remains uncertain, she said it was heartwarming to see Fort Worth come together and support each other in “true Cowtown fashion.”
“From livestreaming a concert to supporting our local artists and musicians to our distillers manufacturing hand sanitizer, I could not be prouder of how Fort Worth united in response to this unprecedented crisis,” she said. “It is moments such as these during our most trying times that assure me, we will get through this together and come out stronger as a community.”
the danger and survived having the virus that has taken so many lives, Pace said the best way to show love is by keeping our distance.
“In this unprecedented time of pandemic, our greatest hope is to show that love by staying in, physically isolating, minimizing opportunities for the virus to spread,” he said. “And at the same time, use technology to remain connected with our neighbors. We are surrounded by God’s grace in this time of uncertainty. It’s through our connection and support of each other that our society will make it to the other side.”
Meanwhile, Stephanie remains hopeful that the legend of Drew's Place will continue. But she admits being thankful for time that she did not previously have, time to reflect on the most important things in life, time to do things she might not have gotten around to, and time to create memories for when she looks back.
“My advice to others would be to keep busy, get rest, or do something that you have always dreamed of doing. Use this time wisely, don't spend time speculating about what will be,” she said. “Make a plan that you can live with today and let each day work itself out. This is a day-by-day process. And spend just a small part of your day doing something you can enjoy.
“Someone asked me if I thought God is trying to tell us something. I said not try, he is telling us something.”
Pastor William Timothy Glynn, Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church
And, as someone who has gone through
“When this is finally over, I want to be able to look back over these weeks or months and see what I did with all that time.”
And, since we have all been given a somber reminder that we never know what the future holds, she advises, “Let part of your planning include how not to be caught financially unprepared.”
For now, she reminds herself daily of one of the most famous quotes in history, said to have been stated from King Solomon to Abraham Lincoln. Now, perhaps more than ever, it contains more optimism and hope than ever.
“This, too, shall pass.”
Father Robert Pace and choir member Joshua Bacon, during a Sunday service in March
SPRING/SUMMER 2020
Pg. 4
8 CREATING THE PERFECT SPACE FOR SHELTERING IN PLACE
THE COZIEST CASA IN TANGLEWOOD
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)
IS MEMORABLE.
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)
Home and Hope
Making an isolation-friendly space for you and yours.
by Denise McGaha Denise McGaha Interiors
The spring of 2020 has brought more indoor time than any of us could have expected. We now have terminology like “shelter in place,” “new normal,” and “work from home” peppered into our everyday conversations. While I use words every day like “the meaning of home,” “cozy,” and “family-friendly,” we are learning them in ways we never thought possible. Being an interior designer means that the focus on our work, our projects, and the homes we have created for our clients are top of mind.
I have always considered myself a homebody, and I love puttering in the garden. But, honestly, the past five years have sped by at lightning speed. I have
been so incredibly busy with work and life that I have not had much time to enjoy the home I designed for our family. This pause has also given me the opportunity to see the things that need updating, refreshing, and a general plan for renovation when things open back up.
Like many of you, I am now juggling new working conditions, home schooling and Wi-Fi breakdowns, navigating running a business, and applying for SBA loans. I am also finding more time to bake, sitting down with family for regular meals, walking in the warm Texas sunshine, and gardening. Just like life, there are ups and downs to every day during this time, and I am hopeful for many of us who are learning to navigate the interior design world with different tools.
We are happy to hear how many of our clients are fully enjoying their new homes for the first time. Those who have kitchens we designed with built-in coffee systems are becoming quite the baristas. As for those with outdoor living spaces, they are bringing respite and an escape from a spouse on Zoom calls. I am also seeing more fancy china for weeknight dinners, beautiful cut flowers on every surface, and a general appreciation for our shelters.
The ways in which we use our homes has shifted, and the dining room is now being used as a classroom for many. My teenage children, who are learning at home, have asked for a new desk, brighter task lighting, and more ergonomic desk chairs. Our home gyms are not only necessary to stay in shape but to relieve the additional stress of our current economy. We have also shifted our workout space to include space to stream yoga and Pilates classes on demand. While I desperately miss my morning Pilates classes with all my friends, this ability to workout whenever I can make the time definitely has its perks.
The meaning of home is more important than ever, and I believe we will emerge from this time with a new appreciation for our homes and how we use them. We will also have organized every closet and pantry and will be able to truly enjoy less clutter. By really using our homes, we are now better able to see what is missing and to cut out the excess or unused items that have been taking up visual and physical space.
Beauty is healing, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to create the backdrop for everyday beauty in our clients’ homes. I hope each one of you is also finding a small bit of joy each day and that we will all be together again soon, celebrating birthdays, graduations, and traveling to far-flung locales. Here’s to the hope and tenacity in all of us that will allow us to come through this stronger and smarter and with a few new cooking skills to boot.
Denise McGaha is a nationally known designer and owner of Denise McGaha Interiors. She is regularly featured in design publications such as House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Elle Décor, and Luxe Magazine.
Shabby ChiC
SimpliCity
RuStiC mode R n
Cla SSiC Contempa Ry
We loved the look of the original brick exterior but wanted to add some character to the roofline by constructing the peak and adding a front-porch entry. We widened the entryway and painted the double doors a happy shade of light blue so the entrance to our home could be as inviting as possible for anyone who stops by.
TOUR OF A TANGLEWOOD TREASURE
Every room of this picturesque home in the heart of Tanglewood is full of surprises.
by
It took a little while — a few months according to Austin McLaurin — to see the potential of what would become a show-stopping flat in one of Fort Worth’s most desirable neighborhoods. But, according to his wife, local artist Elizabeth McLaurin, the home required a vision, someone who could see beyond shaggy carpet and peeling paint, to transform a ho-hum shanty into the couple’s dream home. And that vision was all Austin’s.
Deciding against hiring an interior designer after they purchased the home in 2019, the two relied on their own instincts to create
something that’s both personal and timeless in its design. Austin says the look of the house, with its distinct light blue accents (including the front door), reflects how Elizabeth paints. And quirky touches, such as wallpaper made from a collage Elizabeth painted of flowers Austin used to send her every week, pay homage to the couple’s relationship.
With the renovations complete, Elizabeth and Austin have opened their doors to our readers for an exclusive room-by-room tour through their charming home.
Elizabeth and Austin McLaurin
Intro by Brian Kendall photography by Bree Linne
Another focal point of our vision for the house was opening up the living spaces in the center of the home. A massive brick wall originally separated the kitchen and living room, so once that was removed, a major part of our vision was accomplished. The built-ins on either side of the fireplace give us a lot of space to display our favorite photos and collected items.
If there is one thing we had our minds set on, it was having blue kitchen cabinets. The kitchen is a place where we spend the majority of our time, especially since it directly opens with the living room. We always knew the kitchen would be a focal point of our home, and we love that it captures our personality so well.
Even though most people our age would decide to forego a formal dining room, we are traditionalists at heart and wanted a space where we could share many meals with family and friends. The addition of the bar and cabinets along the back wall allows us to display our collections of glass and dishware and makes it a room where we enjoy visiting frequently.
Our bathroom was designed to be spacious and functional. The addition of the laundry room off of the bathroom was one of our best decisions we made. We connected the design of the bedroom and bathroom by using the wall color of the bedroom on the vanity cabinets in the bathroom and letting the rest of the color scheme remain a clean white.
The guest bedroom is the largest bedroom in the house. It was originally the master bedroom before remodeling, so we love that our guests have their own space, complete with a private bathroom when they stay with us.
The entire master suite was built from the existing exterior walls of what used to be the garage. We were able to fit our bedroom and a bathroom that includes two vanities, a large shower, a walkin closet, and our laundry room all in the garage space.
Available This Spring In Cline Park at Walsh
Dream Street 2020
Three Designers Team Up to Show Off the Best in Interiors
by Scott Nishimura
Our 2020 Dream Street — three luxury homes under construction side by side on a cul-de-sac in Southlake — will showcase the latest trends, including the interiors of three of the region’s finest designers: Traci Darden of Elements of Design, Susan Semmelmann of Susan Semmelmann Interiors, and Dorian Stacy Sims of Stacy Furniture & Design.
Darden, Semmelmann, and Stacy Sims are teamed up with Heritage Homes, WillowTree Custom Homes, and Jon Atwood Custom Homes, respectively, in finishing and furnishing the interiors of the three homes in Southlake’s Oxford Place. All three designers have worked on previous dream home projects for the magazine. The Dream Street homes are scheduled to be completed in the early fall and open for tours to benefit a Wish with Wings, the magazine’s official charity, in October. The homes at 1104 High Court, 1105 High Court, and 1100 High Court are for sale, and each will be listed at about $3 million or more.
Traci Darden
Elements of Design elementsofdesignllc.com Southlake
Traci Darden, who earned a degree in interior design from Texas State University, moved to North Texas in 1995 and started Elements of Design in 2000, with a primary focus on new construction. Her designer showroom is in Southlake.
“It’s just kind of grown from there,” propelled by referrals and clients walking through the firm’s projects. Darden does all build jobs for Heritage Homes, owned by John Webb. Her work is mainly residential, but she also does commercial jobs for residential design clients. Darden was one of the designers on the 2019 Showcase Home Colleyville, in which the magazine collaborated with Heritage Homes and more than a dozen designers.
The style of Heritage Homes’ Dream Street home is Hill Country modern. “It’s a party house, great lot, great views,” Darden says. The second floor includes covered and uncovered patio space and views of the backyard landscape and pool.
She’ll use a lot of natural materials, including 7 1/2-inch wide, white broad format European oak floors with a light wire-brushed finish; tile; and natural whites and soft creams in the color palette and deep-blue and copper sienna accents. The home’s high ceilings will allow light to pour through. Darden expects the three homes to work well together in showcasing different styles. “It isn’t just one house; it’s the whole cul-de-sac.”
Susan Semmelmann
Susan Semmelmann Interiors semmelmanninteriors.com
Fort Worth
Susan Semmelmann has been in design for 23 years, and the Dream Street marks the third Dream Home project she’s collaborated on for the magazine. In March 2019, she launched her own firm, Susan Semmelmann Interiors.
Semmelmann’s brand is “The spirit of living is in the giving,” a nod to the work she does for a Wish with Wings, which grants wishes for ill children. Semmelmann serves on the organization’s design committee, helping put on the annual Kitchens Tour and Butterfly Wishes fundraisers. She’s also picking one charity each year to grant a surprise office redesign. Semmelmann’s husband is a survivor of a rare form of cancer. “These things are really relevant to me,” she says. “Dream Home is much more than designing a home. The more tickets are sold, the more opportunity there is to raise funds for a Wish with Wings.”
The style of WillowTree’s Dream Street home is rustic contemporary. “It embraces organic influence,” Semmelmann says. “It brings nature to the design element in every room. Every one relates to nature in a positive way.”
Taking influences from a hotel in New York, the WillowTree home will show off a lot of natural woods, including black distressed hardwood planks on its ceilings. “Every room has an organic textured wood mix.”
The downstairs floors will be Dekton concrete flooring, which goes down in 56inch square slabs like tile and can be used for interior and exterior applications. The
Dekton will be used throughout the first floor of the two-story home, except for the first floor where there is carpet. “Everyone does wood. This is an opportunity to do something unusual.”
Semmelmann’s using fabrics to soften the home’s feel. The home’s color palette is full of blacks, creams, grays, and natural colors. Semmelmann has 28 projects ongoing. With COVID-19, “I’m struggling with getting product, but as far as clientele, we’re at an all-time high.”
Dorian Stacy Sims
Stacy Furniture & Design stacyfurniture.com
Grapevine
Like our other Dream Street designers, Dorian Stacy Sims is no newcomer to the magazine’s Dream Home projects. She was designer on our 2015 Dream Home, built by Jon Atwood in Southlake’s Carillon.
Stacy is president of Stacy Furniture, which her father, Rick Stacy, founded more than 25 years ago. In 2005, Stacy Sims took over operations from her father.
The company has showrooms in Grapevine and Allen and an outlet store in Flower Mound. The company’s furniture brands include Bernhardt, Hooker, Stickley, Sherrill, Lexington, and Universal. The Grapevine and Allen stores include KidStuff centers that clients can use to design children’s rooms. The stores also include restaurants, flooring stores, and drop-in day care. The company’s sleep consultants help customers choose the right mattresses. And Stacy’s designers help clients create broader transformations. “We even make house calls — just what the doctor ordered,” the Stacys like to say.
The Atwood home is the only onestory of the three Dream Street homes. In transitional style, it’s one of 11 homes Atwood has in process today in Southlake, Westlake, and Colleyville.
With the three homes simultaneously under construction next to each other, Atwood expects to see the builders and subcontractors packing the homes with their best. “You’re going to see three builders that are going to be competing against each other for best kitchen, best bathroom, best pool,” he said.
Dream Street 2020
Traci Darden
Susan Semmelmann
Dorian Stacy Sims
Dream Street 2020
The Dream Team
Here are the contractors who are participating in our Dream Street project in Southlake’s Oxford Place development.
Heritage Homes
1104 High Court, Lot 7
Builder: Heritage Homes
Home plans: Paragon Design Group
Interiors: Traci Darden, Elements of Design
Appliances: The Jarrell Co.
Cabinets, kitchen: The Kitchen Source
Cabinets, other: Mike Conkle Custom Cabinets
Concrete flatwork: Metroplex Concrete Construction
Countertops, fabrication: Absolute Stone & Tile
Countertops, material: KLZ
Stone Supply
Doors, exterior: Quarles
Lumber
Drywall and texture: Alliance Drywall
Electrician: C&B Electric
Fence, iron and automated gates: Lambert’s Ornamental Iron
Fire protection system: Haynes Fire Protection
Fireplace inserts, interior: Overhead Door Co.
Flooring, carpet, wood, and labor: Vintage Floors
Flooring, tile: Florida Tile
Foundation: Metroplex Concrete Construction
Framing: Lone Star Framing & Construction
Garage doors/openers: Overhead Door Co.
Gutters: Loveless Gutters
Hardware, cabinets: Pierce Fine Hardware & Plumbing
Stucco, material and labor: Centurion Stone of DFW
Windows and interior doors: Quarles Windows
WillowTree Luxury Homes 1105 High Court, Lot 5
Builder: WillowTree Luxury Homes
Home plans: Flynn + Watson Architects
Interiors: Susan Semmelmann Interiors
Appliances: Expressions Home Gallery
Cabinets, kitchen: The Kitchen Source
Concrete flatwork: Blythe Concrete
Countertops, fabrication: Absolute Stone & Tile
Countertops, material: Levantina
Doors, exterior front: M2 Metals
Drywall and texture: Alliance Drywall
Electrician: MPT Electric
Fire protection system: Haynes Fire Protection
Flooring material, tile: Daltile
Foundation: Blythe Concrete
Garage doors/openers: Open Up Garage Doors
Gutters: Loveless Gutters
Hardware, cabinets: Pierce Fine Hardware & Plumbing
HVAC, equipment and thermostats: Hawk Air Co.
Insulation: New Leaf Foam Insulation
Light fixtures: Passion Lighting
Low voltage/AV/security: Comware AV
Lumber and trusses: DeFord’s Lumber Co.
Outdoor lighting: Passion Lighting
Plumbing, fixtures: Expressions Home Gallery
Plumbing, labor and supplies: Posey Plumbing
Pool: Claffey Pools
Shower glass and mirrors: Fashion Glass & Mirror
Stucco, material and labor: MCD Stucco
Wine room cabinets: Vineyard Wine Cellars
Greater Fort Worth Builders Association Showcase Home
A Foundation-Up Fundraiser with Modern Farmhouse Feel
The Greater Fort Worth Builders Association (GFWBA) 2020 Showcase Home has been a labor of love and generosity, primarily built with products and services donated by members to create a one-of-a-kind custom home that is waiting to welcome new owners.
Located at 1305 Mt. Gilead Road in Keller, the urban farmhouse-inspired home was designed by M.J. Wright and Associates, Inc. and built by Brian Avery of BR Avery Homes, LLC. Listed at $989,000 by Wynne Moore Group, the Showcase Home is GFWBA’s largest fundraiser, with proceeds from its sale to fund GFWBA operations, programs and events. GFWBA is a non-profit trade organization comprised of members in Tarrant, Johnson, Hood, Wise, Parker, Somervell and Palo Pinto Counties.
With family-friendly functionality, energy-efficient features and notable extras – including a backup generator, freestanding safe room and automated window shades – the two-story house offers 5,223 square feet under roof with four bedrooms and four bathrooms, a three-car garage, and is situated on three-quarters of an acre.
Curb Appeal
The exterior of the house offers a timeless, vintage feel and features a combination of barn-red brick and white limestone by ACME Brick,
along with black shingles and metal roofing from Kidd Roofing contribute to the country farm-aesthetic. BMC provided the materials to build the shell of the home, including lumber, siding, cornice and deck materials. The Pella Lifestyle Series exterior doors and no-grid glass windows add sleek lines to the rustic exterior, updating the facade with clean avenues for natural light to illuminate the interior –while also offering exceptional energy efficiency and sound control.
Country Chic Interior
The farmhouse feel flows into the house from the warm natural flooring contributed by Oakline Floors – solid stained white oak wood throughout most of the downstairs, up to the neutral paint of the walls – Hush Gray by Kelly-Moore Paints & Primers.
Upon entering is a spacious open concept living area overlooking the back covered terrace through four glass panel sliding doors, with combined family room, dining room and kitchen. A modern
minimalist PRIMO Heat & Glo gas fireplace donated by Nix Door & Hardware – with cool touch, seamless glass – is the focal point of the family room, with an entry to the private study on one side and an entry to the master suite on the other side.
The expansive master bedroom with raised box ceiling further leads to a luxurious bathroom – with cool shades of grey from the concrete flooring and Calacata porcelain from ACME Brick and Silestone quartz counters from Tile, Marble and Granite Works – made warm with Champagne gold plumbing fixtures from Expressions Home Gallery and a statement chandelier from Lee Lighting.
The custom-designed closet by California Closets features soft-close drawers and brushed aluminum doors above with satin glass fronts. Various rods and racks, shoe shelves and more add extra organization. Overhead, remote-controlled lighting illuminates the space.
On the opposite end of the first floor is the gourmet kitchen.
Safe and Sound – And Efficient
When the power goes off, the property’s on-site Generac 22kW generator powers on. The generator is a backup option for providing power automatically, and the load management system insures that the generator is never “overloaded.”
If dangerous weather occurs, the above ground steel safe room offers protection. Provided by Lone Star Safe Rooms, it is located in the garage and can accommodate eight individuals within its 3/16-inch steel walls, ceiling and double-sided A-36 steel door.
A combination of motorized Roman shades and roller shades, installed throughout the house by Budget Blinds, allow the homeowner to control movement from a smart device and integrate with other home automation products.
Behind the scenes, energy efficient features range from the two electric water heaters to the extra thick exterior walls, continuous foam sheathing exterior insulation, air sealing package,
At the center is a large island that features a NativeStone concrete sink and Silestone Desert Silver top, with a large decorative light fixture above. Shaker style cabinets by Sunrise Wood Designs painted Pearly White surround the room and stand juxtaposed against the Cento Grey Gloss tile backsplash and stainless-steel appliances –which include the GE Monogram luxury appliance package from Texas Appliance and Builders Supply.
A guest bedroom and full guest bath lie to one side of the kitchen, with stairs to the second story, a powder room and laundry room on the opposite side. Upstairs offers an expansive open game room, with two additional bedrooms and two full bathrooms.
attic insulation and Lennox XP20 Inverter Variable Speed Heat Pump – known for its ability to adjust heating and cooling output like a dimmer switch to perfectly accommodate comfort needs.
“We worked with Owens Corning and TX Plumbing & Air to bury the HVAC ductwork in the attic underneath several inches of insulation, greatly increasing the efficiency of the system, leading to lower utility bills and a more comfortable home,” stated Brian Avery of BR Avery Homes, LLC.
To arrange a tour of the Showcase Home, contact the Wynne Moore Group at 817-781-7060
North Office: 1001 N. Waldrop, Suite 505 Arlington, TX 76012
South Office: 5005 S. Cooper St, Suite 275 Arlington, TX 76017
Phone 817-277-9415 • Fax 817-277-0360
Email info@womenshealthservices.com
Women’s Health Services—the full-service OB-GYN Clinic providing health care to women of all ages. Founded by Dr. Joan Bergstrom in 1986, the clinic now has 6 female physicians. WHS has two offices located in North and South Arlington. All doctors are Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology. With the on-line scheduling system, it is easy to book your own appointment with the doctor of your choice.
The doctors provide services for normal and high-risk obstetrics, well-woman exams, hormone replacement therapy, evaluation of abnormal pap smears, surgery for uterine bleeding, uterine prolapse urinary incontinence and in-office procedures to treat heavy periods. The doctors work out Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital. Visit their website at womenshealthservices. com, or call 817-277-9415 to schedule your appointment.
Dr. Joan Bergstrom
Dr. Sheri Puffer Dr. Joy Carter
Dr. Jessica Brown
Dr. Kiran Nangrani Dr. Dawnette Peppler
Who Will Save Our City?
As of this writing, it’s been a little more than a month since COVID-19 came to Fort Worth, bringing with it an ominous cloud of uncertainty. Politicians and lawmakers have scrambled to institute regulations to keep us safe and keep us home. Businesses have closed. People have lost their jobs. If you’re working, you’re working from your couch. The boredom is killing you. And, being the feisty Fort Worthians we are, we’ve spent as much time abiding by these rules as we have arguing about them, mainly on social media because, you know, social distancing. One thing is certain, though: We are surviving. Our city is surviving. The work of those on the frontlines has been imperative to our survival — doctors, nurses, paramedics, police officers, firemen. Our city bows to you. Others in the community are doing equally important work — work that keeps our city going, our spirits up. Their work is more behind the scenes, but it’s no less impactful.
Meet these seven individuals, who may just save our city.
BY MALCOLM MAYHEW
AND BRIAN KENDALL PHOTOS BY CRYSTAL WISE
Haritha Pingili, pharmacist
It’s not hard to get Haritha Pingili, a pharmacist at Hall’s Specialty Pharmacy near the heart of the Medical District — the epicenter of our city’s fight against COVID-19 — to wax poetic about the necessity to wear masks and maintain good hygiene. It’s becoming part of her job to talk customers off the proverbial ledge and educate them about how to avoid the virus that, at this time, has eluded doctors and scientists.
“Everyone is very scared, and they don’t know what’s going on,” Haritha says. “There’s no vaccine or proper medication for [COVID-19], so people are feeling a lot of anxiety and stress.
“I try to educate my customers to wash their hands and keep their
social distancing. I also stress taking immunity boosters such as fruit and medications and supplements like zinc. I definitely see a lot of change, but, slowly, from that scary mode, we will fight on, and we pray to God that this will soon end.”
These days, being on the front lines of keeping people safe and healthy might be the most essential vocation in the world. And the 43-year-old couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
“Even in high school, I wanted to understand how medications work,” she says. “I chose pharmacy as a career because I have a passion for it.”
Elvira Sakmari, producer and digital director
Elvira Sakmari spends her days now much like you do, at home, clicking, swiping, trying to figure out in this strange new world what is fact and what is fiction.
These days, with a scientist-stumping virus sweeping through the city, that’s no easy task. But it’s Sakmari’s area of expertise. As a longtime producer and digital director at Fort Worth-based TV station NBC, she is charged with leading the station’s digital news coverage, often the landing pad for stories before they graduate to the evening news. The 49-year-old journalist helps uncover the truth, in other words, at a time when facts
are a rare — and possibly our most invaluable — commodity.
“We’re out to find the truth; it’s as simple as that,” she says from her home office, where, remotely, she leads a team of nine. “People get their news from all kinds of different sources — Facebook, Twitter, wherever, and maybe that news is true and maybe it isn’t. For me, I still believe in true journalism, reported by real journalists, because that’s what people need right now.”
Kenneth “Bobby” Burns, truck driver
Next time you’re picking out a loaf of bread, or deciding what pasta to pair with your fish tonight, or debating the brand of flour tortillas you want, give thought to the man who, quite possibly, allowed you to make those decisions.
This is Kenneth “Bobby” Burns, a truck driver who transports one item and one item only: flour. Fifty thousand pounds of it.
Six days a week, Burns drives from his home in Glen Rose to Saginaw for an even tougher commute: His route for Foodliner Inc. takes him from Saginaw to San Antonio, where he delivers his 50Ks of flour, used primarily for ramen noodles but also for various bread products.
A few months ago, our nation’s truck drivers were unsung heroes, the men and women who made sure, quietly with no fanfare, you had what you needed to live. But now the people who transport goods along the veins of our country are getting the recognition they deserve.
Not that Burns, 58, wants it.
“I don’t feel special; it’s just my job,” he says. “I’ve been doing it for 40 years. It’s just something I’ve always done.”
La Dora Nursing and Rehab Center
Ms. Frances recently celebrated her 100th birthday at La Dora Nursing and Rehab Center in Bedford, where she resides. Relatives brought cards and wore party hats, and there was a white cake trimmed in blue frosting emblazoned with the words, “Happy 100th Birthday.”
But the celebrators and the celebrated were divided by a cruel reality: a closed window. Relatives, gathered on the nursing home’s front porch, could only look in; Ms. Frances, likewise, could only look out.
It’s a scene that perfectly illustrates what life is like in a nursing facility in 2020, and the efforts nursing homes are making to help ease the challenges.
La Dora is owned by Matthew and Breanna King, and the couple has put into place a number of safeguards to keep staff, guests, and
residents safe. The Kings also know social interaction is vital to the lifeblood of their residents. Instead of canceling a birthday party, for example, they simply retool it to fit social distancing regulations.
The Kings are determined, they say, to keep spirits high during a time when that sentiment seems like a pipe dream.
“It’s been a bit of a transition for them,” Breanna says. “Social distancing means no communal dining, no regular group activities. But we’ve figured out ways to engage them. We have hallway bingo, where everyone stays apart, and they’re able to see their loved ones, either through modern technology or here through glass. We’re doing our best to keep smiles on their faces.”
Johnny Lopez, auto mechanic
With a chunk of society sheltering in place, a large number of essential employees (like the ones we’re profiling in this feature) continue their daily commute to work. And it’s people like Johnny Lopez, the 30-year-old co-owner and mechanic at J & N Auto Service, off Park Place Avenue, who ensure these workers have a mode of transportation to safely travel to their jobs.
What’s more essential than making sure the essential can continue being … essential?
While Johnny admits that things have gotten a little slower since the pandemic, it’s still business as usual for J & N Auto Service — except with a face mask, gloves, and
social distancing. Though it’s easy to become preoccupied with our own health, we can’t ignore the health of the things that make our city operate.
“We get people coming in for inspection, oil changes, brakes make noises, or their check engine light is on,” Johnny says. “You got your doctors that have to get to work, and most of them live far away so they have to drive. And if their car’s not up and running, they’re not going make it to work.”
Daphine Dean, food service manager
Echoing what happened to many of us, COVID-19 sideswiped the life and world of Daphine Dean, a 45-yearold food service manager at Presbyterian Night Shelter, which serves three meals a day to the men, women, and children of Fort Worth’s homeless community.
Practically overnight, she went from seeing all of her longtime “guests” to just a fraction of them. Social distancing meant not as many people could be served. For Dean, who has worked at the shelter for a decade, that struck a nerve.
“When you can’t help as many people as you’re used to helping, it hurts,” she says. While a makeshift shelter was set up at the Tarrant County Convention Center to help serve others, Dean still missed seeing them. “I’ve known a lot
of these people for a long time. Some of them are my friends.”
Dean’s work, as low key as it is, has been integral to keeping the city’s homeless population alive and well. It’s a behindthe-scenes type of job, not a frontline position. Even before COVID-19 struck, she was, in a way, wearing a mask.
“It’s not a high-profile job, but it’s an important one,” she says. “But I think what’s more important to me is how this job keeps me humble and grounded. I’m around people who are just like me. They once had jobs and then something happened. There’s always a chance that I, or anyone, could be in the same position, especially with the way the world is now.”
Twin Canyons Ranch
WE SPEAK FORT WORTH
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.
COVID -19 Meeting the Challenge
How we’ve modified our business model to endure the pandemic.
Understanding the importance of evolution — the fact that one must change and adapt to their environment, climate, and circumstances — is paramount to any business’ survival. While this change is — more often than not — a slow process, the current pandemic that has abruptly altered the way we live has forced local businesses to think on their feet and outside of the box to keep their workers employed and their clientele happy. In this unprecedented time, we have seen local restaurants, firms, and retail outlets introduce creative ways of delivering their services. From takeout to toilet paper cakes to virtual office visits, here are their stories.
COVID-19 Meeting the Challenge
RISING TO MEET THE CHALLENGE
My bakery business is about 75% wedding cakes. So, after almost 30 weddings canceled or postponed due to COVID-19, I was pretty sure we would have to close our doors. But with prayer, inspiration, and a desperate search for a strategy, my team and I decided to start making quarantine cakes shaped like
rolls of tissue paper and filled with a funfetti inside to bring joy. They were an instant hit and sales went bananas, which has kept the doors open!
We can barely keep up with the hundreds of requests for these tissue paper cakes! Our overall operation has changed drastically in a few short weeks, but I am most proud of how we rose to meet the challenge. In this time of fear and isolation it’s never a bad idea to give yourself or send someone you love a little sweet comfort. Due to a high volume of orders, it’s best to contact us via email or to PM inbox us your number for a call back. This should allow us to accommodate as many orders as possible for the following week. Also, please be patient as we are working out the kinks to this new way of operating. Blessings are overtaking us! We are so very grateful! — Tareka L Lofton, Owner.
LOFT22 CAKES
106 East Daggett Ave.
682.841.1771
Loft22cakes@gmail.com
loft22cakes.com
NO STRANGERS TO PERSEVERANCE
Shortly after Lone Star Bavarian, a small family-owned business, opened in mid 2001, the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001 happened. Afterward, there was not a single phone call for over a month. Fortunately, it was a new business and had little overhead — the owner, Trent Cole, was the only employee then. So, the economic downturn was easy to overcome with so little financially at stake.
Then there was the financial collapse of 2008–2009 that occurred shortly after we had moved into a much larger facility with a much larger note to pay. There were lots of challenges to overcome with an economy that was in the tank, but we persisted, never gave up, and kept moving forward. That brings us to this most recent calamity and, while we are a seasoned small business at this point, this is unlike anything we have been through thus far.
Small business owners have to be flexible and ready to adapt on a regular basis, and this challenge is no different. What is different this time is the federal government’s assistance. Yet, only time will tell if their assistance will be enough to save so many small businesses. Trent says, “In the end, it is our faith and trust in God that has gotten us this far, so we will continue to lean on Him.”
LONE STAR BAVARIAN
3800 West Vickery, Blvd.
Fort Worth, TX 76107
817.732.4888
lonestarbavarian.com
WE ARE HERE AND OPEN
As First Responders never run away from a crisis, neither do we. In an effort to support our local heroes, we are remaining open during this time to continue to provide our first responders with all their hero gear.
M-Pak is at your beck and call, greeting you at our front door to deliver your goods Masks on! While we are all adapting to doing business pandemic-style, we are still performing our duties in HIGH GEAR. 100% GO!
We also continue to supply government agencies with their industrial packaging needs. And to ensure our veterans receive their prescriptions in good order, we remain committed to providing the necessary pharmaceutical packaging.
Just like everyone else in this wonderful city, our M-Pak team is adjusting to the new normal. For everyone’s protection, we quarantine our incoming orders for the appropriate times, disinfect, social distance, and self-isolate outside of work. We use web chat platforms for communication and support local restaurants by bringing lunch in for our team. We also have two grown dogs, Dalai and Ellie Mae, and two active puppies, Kobe and Sparkle, here for emotional support and to add many laughs and fun to our days.
In support of personal protection, M-Pak’s amazing seamstresses are creating M-Paklogoed masks.
Give one of our exceptional M-Pakers a call and they will help you with your order!
We look forward to the time that we can shake your hand and hug your neck in appreciation for a job well done. But until then, Stay Safe. Support Local. Kick COVID-19 butt.
With the coronavirus descending upon us from nowhere, we have all been affected in various ways. To those near and abroad who have lost someone close to you, our sincere condolences. To our first responders, medical workers, cashiers, and clerks — thank you for putting others first. And to those who got stuck at the house for a while, we hope you made the most of it.
As the summer months come — along with a return to normalcy and enjoying outdoor activities — Metro Golf Cars invites you to consider the freedom of a utility golf car. Whether you are hunting, playing golf, getting around your community, or working on your farm or ranch, we have the vehicle for you. With innovative features, cutting edge technology, and top-ofthe-line functionality, our brands are known for their exceptional reliability and array of accessories owners can customize any way they wish.
Metro Golf Cars is proud to be nationally recognized by Club Car as an Elite Black & Gold Dealer — a recognition we received by delivering superior service. The only thing greater than our passion for golf and utility cars is our love for our customers. So, while we are proud to earn this title again, we also extend our thanks to you for coming back again and again and making Metro Golf Cars a success. Come by our showroom at I-35W and Seminary Drive in Fort Worth, or visit online at MetroGolfCars.com
METRO GOLF CARS
4063 South Freeway | Fort Worth, TX 76110
817.921.5491
MetroGolfCars.com
TIPS FOR SANITY AS YOU SHELTER IN PLACE
As we all “shelter in place,” these are unprecedented times in our history. There are many stressors that come with the constant togetherness that is now present.
Here are a few tips from people who have dealt with family law issues for over 45+ years:
1) Structure the family’s daily routine. Make time for meals together. Assign chores and have a definite bedtime.
2) Assign “duties “ at home — who is to do what and when can bring great relief to tension in the family unit.
3) Be patient. This is a hard thing to do when you are stressed to begin with. Counting to 10 will work in most cases; in extreme cases, go for a walk.
4) Exercise. It’s a great de-stressor.
5) Make yourself a gratitude list and continue to add to it. Be grateful for your health, shelter, spouse, children, and pets.
6) Don’t assume anything. Assumptions can lead to misunderstandings, which can lead to arguments over nothing.
Family Law has been our business for over 45 years. We’ve helped many people through tough times in their relationships, and we are available to help with your family law issues. We hope that if you practice these tips, we will see you in the grocery store instead of our office. Stay Safe!
THE LAW OFFICE OF GARY L. NICKELSON
5201 West Freeway, Ste. 100 Fort Worth, TX 76107
817.735.4000
garynickelson.com
WORKING TOGETHER WHILE APART
With the everchanging news about the COVID-19 pandemic and its spread throughout the United States and our community, we know that a lot of you are feeling additional stress and uncertainty about what is to come. We understand that life doesn’t stop — even during a health crisis — and personal injury tragedies are still occurring every day. Please know that we are here for you.
At Parker Law Firm, our motto is “People Matter,” and now more than ever, that stands true. As personal injury attorneys, we are constantly helping our clients fight for justice — and even from the safety of our homes during this quarantine, we will continue to do the same. While the health and safety of our employees, clients, and partners are top priorities for our firm, we are fortunate that we are able to continue to run our business and are able to be there for you every step of the way while working remotely. Whether that be through phone calls, emails, FaceTime, or Zoom conference calling, we will make it work so that we are able to hear you, see you, and continue to be a support system for you during this challenging and uncertain time.
Please call our office at 817.799.8611 or visit our website at parkerlawfirm.com to learn more about us, our clients, and how we may be able to serve you. You can also tune in to our Podcast at podcast.parkerlawfirm.com. Stay healthy and safe!
PARKER LAW FIRM
2317 Plaza Parkway, Ste. 100 Bedford, TX 76021
817.799.8611 | parkerlawfirm.com
COVID-19 Meeting the Challenge
ADAPTING TO PROMOTE SAFE SHOPPING
Being committed to health, safety, and the needs of our customers and employees is our number one goal.
As the world navigates through this unprecedented time as a result of COVID-19, Pierce Hardware is adapting and making significant efforts to protect the health and needs of customers and employees. These efforts have allowed Pierce Hardware to remain open for business with minimal interruptions while reducing risk — as much as possible — to customers and staff.
The Pierce team is in constant communication with domestic and international vendors
STRENGTHENING IMMUNITY
STAY SAFE AND STAY STRONG
to stay updated on their production capabilities and supply chain constraints.
Pierce has been able to utilize its extensive on-hand inventory to better service customers’ needs more quickly and effectively while offering a delivery service to safely transport clients’ merchandise to their homes and/or job sites.
Do you need to visit either of the Pierce Hardware showrooms in Dallas or Fort Worth? Not a problem. Simply call ahead for an appointment, and a team member can safely guide you through the showroom with minimal physical interaction.
Pierce Hardware’s management and staff understand the overwhelming amount of stress this pandemic has caused, but Pierce is committed to helping customers, vendors, and partners get through this challenge as easily and safely as possible.
PIERCE HARDWARE
4030 W Vickery Blvd.
Fort Worth, TX 76107
817.737.9090 | piercehardware.com
At SciFit Center, we believe in helping the community overcome the COVID-19 pandemic by continuing to provide weight loss and nutrition services as an essential business. Safety is our primary concern, so we are taking every precaution possible by following in-office sanitation guidelines and offering virtual consultations for those who prefer contactless service.
Your body’s first line of defense against illness is a healthy lifestyle. Following strategic health guidelines is the single most effective measure you can take toward naturally keeping your immune system strong and healthy. Every aspect of your body, including the immune system, functions better when it’s properly taken care of. Having a specifically formulated diet, exercising effectively, and minimizing stress are the keys to allowing your immune system to function optimally.
SciFit is unlike any other place because we focus on helping our clients reach their wellness goals from every aspect possible. We formulate personalized nutrition and fitness programs and provide weekly consultations to ensure our clients’ success and accountability.
The center provides food sensitivity, metabolism and DNA testing, which reveals food allergies, metabolic efficiency, and which diet and exercise methods are most effective for your particular genetic makeup. Utilization of the Fit3D Body Scanner provides you with the most accurate body composition data, which helps us monitor a client’s progress and ensures they are getting the results they need.
SCIFIT CENTER – NUTRITION & FITNESS CONSULTING
2408 Forest Park Blvd.
Fort Worth, Texas 76110
817.975.7583 | scifitcenter.com
Recognized as a premiere personal injury and trial attorney, Jason Stephens is dedicated to compassionate, trustworthy representation for his clients and their families. Stephens Law is committed to helping the seriously injured and has a proven track record spanning over two decades. The Stephens Law team is devoted to the pursuit of excellence in everything they do while serving their clients and community with honor and integrity.
Stephens Law seeks to maximize their clients’ restitution and compensation while understanding that families and loved ones will likely never fully know their old way of life again. The team at Stephens Law strives to be “Difference Makers,” to be true advocates for the seriously injured, and to level the playing field against reckless, indifferent corporations and insurance companies.
During this difficult and unprecedented time, Stephens Law is supporting the mandates of local leaders while providing clients with the assurance, comfort, and leadership they need in some of their most difficult times. Stephens Law has long embraced and leveraged cutting-edge technology to maximize representation of clients, and the team is well equipped to consult with prospective and current clients via “virtual” video calls or by old-fashioned telephone. Moreover, Stephens Law is conducting depositions, mediations, and hearings via Zoom to advance clients’ cases.
Jason wants clients and the community to know that he and his team will continue to deliver the same level of professionalism and dedication in the face of all adversity. Stay safe and stay strong Fort Worth!
JASON STEPHENS STEPHENS LAW
1300 South University Drive, Ste. 406 Fort Worth, TX 76107
stephenslaw.com | 817.420.7000
THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER NEVER STOPS
Cancer care can’t stop — even in the midst of a pandemic.
Texas Oncology is focused on providing uninterrupted, high-quality cancer care in a safe, supportive environment. To reduce exposure to illness, elevated protocols and clinical safety standards include screening at the door, limiting visitors, and continuous cleaning of hands and of high-touch surfaces.
Texas Oncology also expanded its telemedicine services, allowing cancer patients to meet with their physicians and care teams using mobile phones or home computers, when clinically appropriate. Physicians and care teams actively follow patient progress and consult with new patients while reserving clinic space for those who need in-clinic appointments. Telemedicine is also used for genetics consultations, advance care planning, and chemotherapy orientation sessions. For patients who need to visit our clinics for care, we provide comprehensive in-office services, including labs, CT scans, chemotherapy infusions, and radiation therapy, among others. But navigating cancer goes beyond physical care. Emotional well-being is essential to fighting cancer, and virtual support groups are offered. Together, we can fight.
TEXAS ONCOLOGY–FORT WORTH CANCER CENTER
500 S. Henderson St. | Fort Worth, TX 76104
817-413-1500
TEXAS ONCOLOGY–SOUTHWEST FORT WORTH
6500 Harris Pkwy. | Fort Worth, TX 76132
817-263-2600
texasoncology.com/covid19
SPACIOUS LUXURY LIVING FRAMED BY NATURE
During these challenging times, a bustling city life can leave us yearning for an escape. Just imagine waterfalls, lush vegetation, and open spaces in which to run, play — and relax. Build your custom home in this new luxury residential community that’s appropriately named Westworth Falls.
From this 28-acre gated neighborhood in West Fort Worth, enjoy private access to the only natural waterfalls in North Texas as well as more than the 70 miles of the inter-connected Trinity Trails. Amidst the 77 platted lots are magnificent trees a century old and all the wildflowers that we Texans love. Westworth Falls includes an HOA-dedicated, 7-acre private park with playground equipment and almost a mile of interior walking paths.
This new development lies within the City of Westworth Village and is served by Fort Worth ISD. Its location is near Shady Oaks Country Club and Hawk’s Creek Golf Course. There’s no need to drive the interstate or highways to work or play, it’s just 15 minutes from Fort Worth’s Downtown, Medical District and The Shops at Clearfork.
Custom builders include: John Askew Company, Ramsey Shaw Builders, and Windmiller Custom Homes. Of course, you are invited to contract with the luxury builder of your choice or Westworth Falls’ exclusive realtor group, Alexander Chandler. Prices are available upon request.
WESTWORTH FALLS
River Oaks Blvd. @ McNaughton Lane
Westworth Village, TX 76114
817.308.5929 | WestworthFalls.com
FOOD IS IN OUR DNA
In response to the unprecedented challenge we are facing with the COVID-19 pandemic, Zeno’s on the Square and Mamma Monica’s Authentic Italian Restaurants quickly created a customized, online ordering system on both company websites.
“We are offering fresh menu items daily by Chef Max and the staff that feature real Italian meals for our customers who like the freshness,
health values, and incredible tastes. We are also offering the ‘Stop! Grab and Go! Meals’ ready for people to pick up quickly — which includes appetizers, pasta, proteins, soups, delicious sides, and desserts that are vacuum-sealed in a special box that preserves the quality and freshness,” said Monica Russo, owner.
Zeno’s and Mamma Monica’s are open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. “We have adapted our production process to meet the new needs of our customers without sacrificing the quality of the finished product. For Italians, food is in our DNA. Food is love.”
Russo and her brother Zeno believe in this saying: “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.”
“We love and appreciate our customers. Texans and Italians are tough. We are all in this together. We will persevere and come out even stronger.”
ZENO’S ON THE SQUARE
102 Houston Ave. Weatherford, TX 76086
817.757.7552
zenosonthesquare.com
Give Back
Because COVID-19 caused a delay or cancelation of the charity events this season, as a service to all the charities in the Greater Tarrant area, we are listing the new dates or cancelations as they come in.
JUNE 12
Roadhouse
Ronald McDonald House
JUNE 14
Big Taste
Big Brothers Big Sisters
JUNE 25
Black Dog Society
Auction Party
Black Dog Society
JUNE 26
Black Dog Society
Shootout
Black Dog Society
AUG. 7
Wings of Hope
Wings of Hope
Equitherapy
AUG. 14
Clay Challenge
The Parenting Center
AUG. 15
Celebrity Chef Dinner Meals on Wheels
SEPT. 2
Doing the Most Good Luncheon
Salvation Army
OCT. DATE TBD
Promenade Garden Tour
Colleyville Garden Club
OCT. DATE TBD
BBQ Cookoff
The Parenting Center
TBD Heart Ball
American Heart Association
TBD
Project Goodwill
Goodwill Fort Worth
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.
CANCELED
St. Jude Bash
St. Jude
CANCELED
Mother’s Luncheon Easter Seals
Just before the city went on lockdown, photographer Justin Fulton was taking a walk through a near-empty Stockyards when he captured this shot — on Kentmere 100 film — of the iconic longhorn car. “The photo itself to me exudes a sense of confidence that Texans are known for — self-assurance in a time when there is so much fear,” Fulton says. “For me, at least, it’s a good anchor back to reality. We will make it through this no matter how hard it is. That’s what Texans do. That’s what Fort Worth will do.”
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
PHOTO BY JUSTIN FULTON
We’re Your Place for expert service
In these challenging times, you can still rely on Park Place for your service needs. Whether you’re out purchasing needed supplies or picking up prescriptions, having access to a vehicle in good repair is important. That’s why the Park Place service department is open and here for you, providing the certified expertise, personal attention and many of the outstanding amenities you expect. All with an unwavering dedication to safety and cleanliness to keep you, your family and the community safe. Schedule your appointment online today, and enjoy a service experience that makes Park Place feel like Your Place.
