Koby (left) and Antoine (right) Stevenson
Publisher of
287 North Living cindy@287northliving.com
Blooming Into a New Season!
Ah, Spring has sprung! Days are getting longer, the daffodils are in bloom, and the land is awakening from the long dreary winter. You will see kids of all ages out on the baseball fields with parents cheering from the side lines. Easter egg hunts are being held, and local events are happening around the area such as Main Street Arts Fest.
With Spring comes the spring storms that are inevitable—after all this is Texas. March usually arrives like a lion and leaves like a lamb. Get out and enjoy this beautiful Spring by having a meal on your favorite restaurant patio while you catch the March Madness games, hike the trails around Eagle Mountain Lake or just work in your flower beds.
This winter was mild compared to so many and that has given our lawns and outdoor plants a jump start.
To make your gardening easy, head over to the Flower Ranch and be sure to get some of the beautiful plants that they have in bloom. They even have a potting service. You take your empty pots, and they will fill and arrange the plants and flowers for you.
March is our EMS Proud edition. We partner with EMS-ISD to bring you this edition with information about what is happening within the district. Local merchants that have purchased ads in support of the district are instrumental in bringing this edition to you so please make sure to support them. We want to always encourage you to do business with your local merchants as they make the community stronger in so many ways.
We, at 287 North Living, hope you enjoy this issue as much as we have enjoyed bringing it to you.
'til next month,
Cindy Deming
Publisher & Editor
Cindy Deming
Administration
Managing Editor
Jana Melton
Brenda Higgins
Assistant Editor
Bobbi Byrne
Advertising Inquiries
brenda@287northliving.com
Production
Graphic Designers
Ronny Duwe
Steve Wulf
Shannon Robb
Randee Paraskevopoulos
Writers
Steve Gamel, Mark MIller, Craig Hewitt, Colleen McCullough
Photography
Kacee Anderson Photography
Letters
287 North Living Magazine invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments. Email cindy@287northliving.com All submissions become the sole property of SRD Publishers, LLC.
Editorial Inquiries
Call 817.875.6196 or email cindy@287northliving.com
Address: SRD Publishers, LLC. 1939 Golden Heights Rd., Ste. 100 Fort Worth, TX 76177
287 North Living Magazine is published monthly by SRD Publishers, LLC. Some articles and/or content may be sponsored by advertisers. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. 287 North Living Magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher.
© 2026 SRD Publishers, LLC
THE DESK OF THE SUPERINTENDENT
In EMS ISD, we love our students! FROM
Jerry D. Hollingsworth, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD
Welcome to the Spring 2026 edition of EMS Proud in partnership with 287 North Living! As we move into the final stretch of another outstanding school year, I am continually reminded of what makes Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD such a special place, our students, our people and our unwavering belief in what’s possible for every child.
In EMS ISD, we love our students. We are grateful for them every single day, and we are honored that families trust us with their children’s education. From nurturing, engaging, high-quality learning environments in our elementary classrooms to the expansive academic, extracurricular and leadership opportunities in our secondary schools, we are committed to ensuring every student is known, valued and challenged.
Our youngest learners are building strong foundations in caring classrooms designed to spark curiosity and confidence. As students grow, so do their opportunities. From advanced academics and fine arts to athletics, career and technical education, and innovative programming, EMS ISD has something for everyone. This includes our new Premier Pathway, where students can graduate with 45 hours of college credit and be stamped “core complete,” meaning those credits transfer to any state supported college or university in Texas. That pathway, along with the many specialized programs across our district, reflects our commitment to preparing students not just
for graduation, but for a future filled with purpose and possibility.
We are proud of what we offer, and we want every family who calls EMS ISD home to take a closer look.
If you live in the EMS ISD attendance area but are currently educating your child elsewhere, we invite you to explore our campuses, meet our educators, and discover the difference our schools can make. You may be surprised to find the perfect place for your child right here in your own community. Our doors are open, and we would love the opportunity to partner with you.
None of this work happens in isolation. We are deeply thankful for the support of our business leaders, community organizations, and faith-based partners. Whether aligning programs to help develop our future workforce, mentoring students, supporting teachers and staff, or simply showing up to cheer on our schools, your partnership strengthens everything we do. Public education is strongest when the entire community stands behind it, and in EMS ISD, that support continues to make a meaningful difference.
Thank you for being part of the EMS ISD story. Together, we will continue building a district where every student can thrive and every family can be proud to call EMS ISD home.
10/31/2026.
BOND
PROGRESS
Building Excitement for the New EMS ISD Agricultural Science Center
Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD Agricultural Education students are getting excited about the new Dick and Heidi Elkins Agricultural Science Complex, which is being constructed on Mustang Rock Road near Marine Creek Middle Schol. The facility is scheduled to open in late fall 2026.
Boswell High School junior and Eagle Mountain-Saginaw FFA Treasurer Amelia McIlroy is excited and grateful for the new facility and the learning opportunities it will create for students.
Approved by EMS ISD voters in the 2023 Bond, the facility will serve as the hub for all student animal projects along with a multi-use arena and instructional space.
The current facility, which was built in the 1970s, has had minimal upgrades, is not convenient for students, and continues to be a safety concern. The new location will be more accessible for students, staff, and families.
start to take shape, which will grow the excitement even more.
“We have a great facility now, but it lacks equipment. The new building will bring us an advanced learning environment,” she said.
“The new building will bring us an advanced learning environment,” she said.
Giving EMS ISD students a facility to match high quality instruction already taking place, only possible because EMS ISD voters said yes.
Giving EMS ISD students a facility to match high quality instruction already taking place, only possible because EMS ISD voters said yes.
“I am looking forward to the new show arena we are going to have, and I believe it will benefit us as a FFA chapter as it will let us host shows and events, which will be more accessible for us all,” said Wyatt Tribble, a freshman at Chisholm Trail High School.
“I am looking forward to the new show arena we are going to have, and I believe it will benefit us as a FFA chapter as it will let us host shows and events, which will be more accessible for us all,” said Wyatt Tribble, a freshman at Chisholm Trail High School.
He’s also excited about the new equipment students will be able to use for their animals.
He’s also excited about the new equipment students will be able to use for their animals.
“The new equipment will benefit students very much as we don’t have great animal equipment like shears, treadmills and sheep stands.”
“The new equipment will benefit students very much as we don’t have great animal equipment like shears, treadmills and sheep stands.”
Work is underway to pour the building foundations. Soon, the structure itself will
Work is underway to pour the building foundations. Soon, the structure itself will
Thank you, EMS ISD voters, for giving our local children this opportunity to excel in agriculture education.
photos courtesy of EMS ISD
S Pre-Kindergarten Taking the First Big Step Toward Student Success
ending your child to school for the first time—especially at age four—can be one of the most emotional steps a parent takes. The backpack looks too big. The goodbye feels too long. And even when you know it’s the right choice, it’s normal to feel nervous.
Stacey DeHoyos, Director of Pre-K in EMS ISD and Hafley Development Center Principal, understands that hesitation.
“I can definitely understand that sending your little one off to school at such an early age can make you feel nervous,” she said.
But families don’t make that transition
alone. “We have teachers that are trained specifically in early childhood education. They are trained to help not only students, but families to feel comfortable bringing children to school,” DeHoyos added.
For parent Yarelis Maldonado, enrolling her son Isaac, a 4-year-old Pre-K student at Hafley Development Center, was about giving him the support she knew he needed.
“He is very shy, quiet,” she said. “And he is friendly, playful and respectful.”
Still, she wanted him to grow more confident using his voice. “The reason I
decided to put him in Pre-K was because I felt like he needs to communicate.”
That’s one of the biggest benefits of Pre-K. Children learn how to be part of a classroom community. They practice listening, sharing, and communicating needs with teachers and peers.
Maldonado has seen that growth in Isaac.
“Pre-K has been good for him because one, he is learning while playing, improving motor skills,” she said. “Also, he is learning how to share with other friends, listening, following rules from the classroom and slowly, surely trying to be independent.”
Don’t Lose Your Spot!
Those daily routines like lining up, making choices, and working with classmates build the skills children need for kindergarten. And just as important, Pre-K helps students develop confidence and independence at a pace that feels safe and encouraging.
For Maldonado, the clearest sign that Pre-K is working is Isaac’s joy.
Enrolling in Pre-K in EMS ISD is as easy as completing the online application in the Students Family Access account,” DeHoyos explained. “And then a registrar will reach out to you, welcome you to the campus, and collect the necessary documents.”
“He just loves school,” she shared. “He’s always waking up on time in the morning, getting ready… and he’ll ‘say, mom, mom, guess what? We’re going to be doing this in school. We are learning this. We are learning that,’ so, I know he’s ready.”
DeHoyos says that readiness—academic and social—is exactly what high-quality Pre-K programs are designed to build.
“Being a part of a high-quality early childhood program not only serves to intervene and prepare students for school but also serves to help students achieve above and beyond,” she said.
Pre-K is a big step—for children and for parents. When your child starts waking up excited, eager to learn—you’ll know it was absolutely the right thing to do!
From Pioneers to Protectors
Boswell Brothers Carry EMS ISD Lessons Into Law Enforcement
When students walk across the stage at graduation, their futures stretch wide with possibility. For Boswell High School graduates Antoine (2014) and Koby (2015) Stevenson, that future led them to careers of service, protecting local communities alongside their parents.
Koby has served with the Fort Worth Police Department for four years, alongside his father, while Antoine has worked with Keller Police Department for the last five years. Their mother also served with the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office.
Built on Brotherhood and Teamwork
From Saginaw Youth Association to Creekview Middle School and ultimately Boswell High School, the Stevenson brothers built their foundation through football.
Antoine, a running back at Boswell, remembers the unique experience of playing alongside his younger brother on varsity.
“When Koby made varsity his sophomore year, we got to play together again,” Antoine said. “He was my blocker, so I knew he was going to get the job done along with our other teammates.”
For Koby, having an older brother to look up to set the tone early.
“He’s always been a role model for me,” Koby said. “When I saw him pushing
himself, it pushed me to do the same.”
Their time in football instilled discipline, leadership and resilience, qualities critical in law enforcement.
One lesson from former Boswell Head Football Coach and current Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD Assistant Athletic Director John Abendschan still resonates: “Be comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
“He would say that all the time,” Antoine said. “In our profession, we see and do things that make us uncomfortable, but we have to handle the situation and be comfortable with it.”
For Koby, coaches provided stability and guidance while their father was serving overseas in Iraq.
“Coach Abendschan laid the foundation for me as a young man,” Koby said. “The principles he taught me went far beyond football and have stuck with me today.”
Shaped by EMS ISD
“Being part of EMS ISD shaped us in a tremendous way,” Antoine said. “We had great teachers, staff and principals who helped guide us.”
Antoine is open about the fact that growth is part of the journey. “I got in trouble at times,” he said. “But I grew out of it because I surrounded myself with good people and had educators who cared.”
Today, that perspective directly influences how he serves.
“I tell young people you’re going to make mistakes,” Antoine said. “But you have to learn from them and grow. The choices you make now matter later.”
Koby carries that same message into his work. “Who you surround yourself with matters,” he said. “Be around people who will push you to be better.”
Now wearing badges instead of jerseys, the brothers continue to live out the lessons first learned in EMS ISD classrooms and on the field: discipline, accountability, teamwork and service. As public servants and alumni, they reflect the strength of the educators who invested in them and what Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD instills in its students long after graduation.
photos courtesy of EMS ISD
Together Better
At Greenfield Elementary, working “better together” is more than a phrase — it’s a daily commitment lived out by art/music teacher Shannon Jackson and P.E. teacher Jill Buchanan. Together, they have built a partnership rooted in trust, creativity and an unwavering belief in what students can achieve.
From The Classroom to The Gym
Jill Buchanan didn’t begin her career in the gym. She started as a third-grade teacher, where she quickly noticed something important: her students weren’t always returning from P.E. as happy as they should have been. When the opportunity came to step into the P.E. role, she embraced it — determined to create a more structured, meaningful experience for students.
With as many as 60 students in a class, structure was key. Today, Jill’s classes are filled with movement and purpose. She incorporates academics into every lesson, from skip counting during warmups to weaving in science concepts about
bones and muscles. But above all, she emphasizes character.
“I tell the students that I care that you try and that you’re a good sport and good person,” Buchanan said. “We’re not going to be mean; we’re going to support each other and treat each other with respect.”
Her goal is simple and powerful: that students leave elementary school with a love for movement and a strong understanding of teamwork, sportsmanship and perseverance.
Aspiring ER Doctor to Inspiring Young Artists
Shannon Jackson’s journey looked different, but it was just as transformative. Originally pursuing a career as an emergency room doctor, she shifted paths after discovering her true strengths lay in art. After earning a degree in advertising, she found her calling in the classroom — inspired by time spent helping in her sister’s classroom.
When she came to Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, she stepped into the district’s
unique elementary fine arts model, which requires teachers to be dually certified in EC–12 art and music. Though she had experience in band and theatre, teaching music was new territory.
“I knew I could do movements and put on a show,” Jackson said. “Over the years, I’ve
learned a lot on how to teach music, and I’m a much better teacher with so much more confidence.”
Today, her students experience a full spectrum of fine arts. From bucket drumming and recorder ensembles to folk dancing and stage performances, Jackson ensures her students explore every opportunity available to them before middle school. For example, her fourth graders create middle school-level art while fifth graders tackle high school-level projects — though she doesn’t tell them until they’ve succeeded.
The Heart Behind Greenfield Elementary’s Specials
“My goal is that we don’t do art that is at their level,” she said. “We do art that is above their level.”
A Campus Impact
Greenfield Elementary Principal Darius Flowers sees that impact his specials team has across the campus.
“If Mrs. Jackson can get these kids to do these amazing things, we can get them to read,” Flowers said.
He credits both Jackson and Buchanan as integral to the school’s success.
“The relationship and partnership they have built is amazing,” Flowers said. “I don’t think I would have been able to transition as well without their support and partnership because they’re a big, integral part of helping me be successful along with the kids and families.”
EMS ISD Director of Fine Arts Carla Hardy states how Jackson embodies the district’s elementary fine arts vision by delivering 18 weeks of art and 18 weeks of music, which provides students with a full year’s worth of fine arts experience in half the time.
But it’s the collaboration between Jackson and Buchanan that elevates the experience for students at Greenfield.
“They’re phenomenal and great together,” Hardy said.
Better Together — and For Students
For Jackson and Buchanan, their partnership extends far beyond shared hallways.
“Mrs. Jackson and I have been here for so long, and she’s like a sister to me,” Buchanan said. “We’re going to take care of each other, and we’re going to work together as a team.”
When Jackson prepares her honor choir or plans a performance, she leans on Buchanan for feedback and encouragement.
“For honor choir, she helps me with auditions,” Jackson said. “We have a lot of communication and just mutual respect as we know what needs to happen for the kids. We’re doing it for them.”
Buchanan steps in when Jackson has a student performance — which can be up to
16 events a year. She runs sound at every show, travels on field trips and gives up evenings with her family.
“I always get accolades for my shows, and she doesn’t,” Jackson said. “But she is just an integral part of my success because I couldn’t do it all by myself.”
In every experience, the focus remains the same: building confident, capable students who are willing to try something new.
Jackson hopes her students leave Greenfield loving fine arts, and Buchanan hopes they leave with a love for movement and teamwork. Together, they are creating a campus culture where students feel supported, challenged, and celebrated.
photos courtesy of EMS ISD
The EMS ISD Education Foundations is a 501(c)3 charitable organization dedicated to enhancing the education of all students enrolled in the district founded in the 1980s by education-friendly pioneers Dick Elkins and Frank Roszell. Their one fundraiser, a golf tournament, provided resources for area businesses and scholarships for graduating seniors. In 2005, then Superintendent Weldon Hafley, negotiated with the Chamber in order to form the EMS ISD Education Foundation. Today, under the leadership of Director, Ally Surface, the Foundation serves over 24,000 students and over 3,800 employees through scholarship and grant programs as well as community-wide initiatives partnering with businesses and community leaders in an effort to strengthen and build upon District priorities.
CURRENT (PREVIOUS 30-DAY) USE OF ANY
CURRENT (PREVIOUS 30-DAY) USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCT WAS REPORTED BY 10.1% OF
SCHOOL STUDENTS (REPRESENTING 1.58
MILLION STUDENTS), A 2.5%
STUDENTS (REPRESENTING 1.58 MILLION STUDENTS), A 2.5% DECLINE FROM 2023.
FROM
WITH
LOCAL BOUTIQUES
things to try
by Craig Hewitt
Bella Boutique
201 Town Center Ln., Ste. 1115, Keller (817) 741-1027 | bellaboutiquekeller.com
Slip into Bella Boutique and let their team style you from head to toe in flirty dresses, statement denim, and sparkling accessories that feel instantly wearable. This family-owned shop radiates warm, girlfriend-vibe energy, making it the perfect place to refresh your closet before your next date night or girls’ getaway.
Scout & Molly’s
1232 Main St., Southlake (817) 421-2700 scoutandmollys.com/southlake
Spring is blooming along the 287 corridor, and so is our local fashion scene. From Old Town Keller to Southlake Town Square, charming boutiques are filled with fluttery dresses, vintage denim, and oneof-a-kind accessories just waiting to be discovered. Consider this your invitation to slow down, shop small, and fall in love with fashion right here at home.
Elle Maxine
5109 Pershing Ave., Fort Worth (817) 360-8014 | ellemaxine.com
Elle Maxine channels a polished, cosmopolitan vibe with contemporary silhouettes, elevated fabrics, and carefully edited collections that feel straight from a style editor’s rack. It’s a must-visit for women who love building a modern capsule wardrobe filled with pieces that move effortlessly from boardroom to brunch.
At Scout & Molly’s in Southlake Town Square, bright prints, luxe denim, and ontrend accessories line the racks, begging to be tried on. Knowledgeable stylists help you mix and match boutique brands into outfits that feel playful yet polished, ideal for a stylish day of shopping, dining, and people-watching.
The Lucky Acorn Boutique
152 S Main St., Keller | (817) 431-4435
Tucked along Old Town Keller’s charming Main Street, the Lucky Acorn Boutique brims with whimsical tops, easygoing denim, and giftable treasures that turn everyday outfits into conversation starters. Step inside for a friendly, small-town shopping experience where the staff loves helping you discover pieces that feel delightfully “you.”
Agape Clothing Boutique
2216 Montgomerie Ave., Roanoke (817) 383-2372
Agape Clothing Boutique pairs small-town Roanoke charm with city-chic style, offering trend-forward pieces for both men and women. Browse racks of sharp denim, effortless basics, and standout accessories. Let their friendly team help you craft a polished look perfect for dinner on Oak Street or a weekend outing.
photo courtesy Agape Clothing Boutique's social media
photo courtesy Bella Boutique's social media
photo courtesy Elle Maxine's social media
by Colleen McCullough
photo courtesy of TTC Northwest Campus
Northwest Campus of Tarrant County College is preparing to launch an innovative new Commercial Music Technology Certificate Program, designed to equip students with workforce-ready skills in audio recording, music business, and music production.
The one-year technical workforce certificate, currently in development, is expected to launch by Fall 2027. The program is being led by Adam Koch, Commercial Music Faculty Coordinator, alongside Benson Lee, Department Chair, and Lisa Benedetti, Dean of Arts and Humanities. Together, they are building a curriculum that reflects the evolving demands of today’s music industry.
is built around hands-on experience using real-world tools.
Unlike a traditional music degree focused primarily on performance, this program centers on commercial music technology...
Unlike a traditional music degree focused primarily on performance, this program centers on commercial music technology — the technical and business side of the industry. Students will learn audio recording, production, music software, and music business fundamentals, preparing them for careers such as audio engineer, producer, music publisher, band manager, or other adjacent roles within the industry.
The timing is strategic. The campus has recently completed significant development, including a brand-new recording studio, an updated theater equipped with industry-standard technology, and a new Mac lab where students will train on professional software platforms. The program
For aspiring producers, audio engineers, and music entrepreneurs, Northwest TCC is creating a direct pathway into the industry — combining passion with practical opportunity.
A key feature of the certificate is its strong connection to industry partners. An advisory committee made up of local music professionals and business owners in Fort Worth will help shape curriculum and provide networking opportunities. In an industry where relationships often determine opportunity, students will graduate not just with skills, but with connections.
The program also includes a 10-week summer internship, allowing students to gain real-world experience before completing the certificate. The structure — fall and spring coursework followed by a
summer internship — enables students to move quickly from classroom to career. Leaders have also engaged with the Texas Music Office, which tracks the statewide economic impact of music. Texas remains one of the most music-friendly states in the nation, with the industry generating 12.5 billion in economic impact annually. In particular, Fort Worth, designated a “Music Friendly City,” continues to grow as a vibrant music hub.
The goal of the Commercial Music Technology Certificate is clear: provide students with marketable, sustainable skills that allow them to earn steady income while remaining deeply connected to the creative world of music. For aspiring producers, audio engineers, and music entrepreneurs, Northwest TCC is creating a direct pathway into the industry — combining passion with practical opportunity.
In an industry where relationships often determine opportunity, students will graduate not just with skills, but with connections.
theLocal Buzz
photos courtesy of the organization’s website or social media
SAGINAW FARMERS MARKET
A Marketplace with fresh produce, artisan vendors, doers and dreamers. The market is open on the 2nd and 4th Saturday from 8am-noon. Our goal is to provide you with the freshest, highest quality fruits, vegetables, meats and other products. Everything at the market is locally grown, raised, handmade or baked! Located at 752 S. Knowles Dr. (The South end of Willow Creek Park).
EASTER EGG HUNT
Get ready to hop on over for one of Saginaw’s favorite spring traditions. The Annual Saginaw Fire Department Easter Egg Hunt is back. Saturday, March 28 at 10am sharp. Keep your cameras ready. The Easter Bunny will be hopping by handing out candy and taking photos with kids of all ages. The hunt is divided into three age groups: Ages 0 to 3, 4 to 6 and 7 to 10. Location: Southern end of Willow Creek Park off S. Knowles Dr, Saginaw.
PLANT SALE
Join us at the Tarrant County College Plant Sale on April 3 at the Northwest Campus and support our horticulture program. Every purchase made at the plant sale helps fund travel and competition expenses for our team, as well as support future students who will compete in years to come. We’ll have a great selection of plants grown and maintained by students. Your support truly makes a difference! Thank you, and we hope to see you there!
MAIN STREET ARTS FESTIVAL
This is the largest arts festival in Texas. This year’s festival is April 1619 with four days of art, food, drinks, live music and family-friendly fun. The free-to-attend event, presented by PNC Bank, will span 18 blocks across downtown Fort Worth. The festival is open from 10am-10pm on April 16, 10am-11pm on April 17-18 and 10am-8pm on April 19. In addition to art and music, attendees will find a wide variety of eats at multiple food courts across the festival.
DAZZLING DANCE SHOWCASE
The annual EMS ISD Dance Showcase lit up the stage as teams from Boswell, Chisholm Trail, Eagle Mountain and Saginaw delivered show-stopping routines. From sharp choreography to crowd-pleasing performances, the evening celebrated the talent, teamwork and dedication of student dancers and their directors who make fine arts in Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD shine.
STATE WRESTLING HARDWARE
Chisholm Trail High School wrestlers brought home hardware from the UIL State Wrestling Meet as Ethan Orat claimed third place, Natalie Garcia earned fifth and Chaz Marone finished sixth in their respective weight classes. Seven Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD athletes qualified for the state tournament this season, showcasing the grit, focus and competitive drive that power EMS ISD wrestling programs.
INTERNATIONAL DECA HONORS
Boswell’s DECA chapter earned international recognition after receiving the 2025–2026 Achievement Recognition Certificate in DECA’s Community Service Campaign, placing them among just 181 chapters worldwide honored for chapter campaigns. Students partnered with local organizations to assemble food and care kits while also advancing through district and state competition. The program continues to build confident, service-minded leaders ready for success beyond high school.
STATE SWIM SPOTLIGHT
Saginaw High School’s Sophianne Cortes added another chapter to her record-setting career at the UIL State Swim Meet, earning silver in the 100-yard butterfly and placing fifth in the 50-yard freestyle while setting school records in both events. Also representing EMS ISD in his second state appearance was Tavin Nevill from Eagle Mountain High School, who earned second-team all-state honors.
It is A Consummation
Devoutly to be Wish’d: The Life of a Show…. Checkout Girl
There was a time when going to the grocery store meant human interaction. Eye contact. The polite nod from the friendly cashier who wore a proper uniform with pride. The gentle choreography of placing items on the conveyor belt while the same said cashier asks if I have found everything okay, and perhaps I lied and said yes even though there was nary a twist tie to be found for the oranges.
Ah, those were simpler times. Softer times. Times when I did not have to scan, bag, weigh, and emotionally support my own produce.
Self check-out is a slow death for me, and sometimes, like Hamlet, standing there, I have wished for death because at least I would be out of my misery.
by Colleen McCullough
I approach the machine the way one approaches a wild animal. Calm. Measured. Whispering affirmations. “I am not your enemy. Alright big boy we can do this…”
Scan
here
The screen greets me with the warmth of a pathological liar. Welcome valued customer. Scan your loyalty card now.
you. Am I buying regular zucchini? Organic zucchini? Is this technically a squash? Why are there eight different varieties? I fumble through the on-screen menu like I’m trying to hack into a government database. I choose to search by name because looking through pictures seems just a little too elementary.
Now? Now I am apparently employed part-time by the grocery store.
Nothing humbles me quite like marching confidently into a supermarket, only to be herded toward the glowing corral of self-checkout kiosks. The overhead sign practically sparkles with forced enthusiasm–green lights for go and red for no go.
No small talk. Not even a “How’s your day going eh you hoser?” Just straight to business. I swipe my first item across the scanner with the confidence of someone who has watched other people do this many times. Of course I don’t have my loyalty card out… give me a minute.
Beep. Oh, that beep. That tiny, judgmental chirp that says, “Fine. Acceptable.” It is the only validation I will receive during this entire transaction.
Then comes produce. Of course it does. Because nothing exposes my inadequacy faster than trying to locate the numeric code for organic zucchini while a line forms behind
The machine waits. Patient. Silent. Smug. But oh I am not fast enough, because there it is–please scan your next item now.
Stand down I want to say….give me a minute to spell ZUCCHINI correctly…
I finally select something that feels zucchini-adjacent. Place it on the scale.
Unexpected item in the bagging area.
Excuse me? It’s a zucchini. We discussed this.
I remove it. I replace it. I lift it gently as though it requires emotional reassurance. Unexpected item in the bagging area.
Help is on the way. I don’t need help with the zucchini but my blood pressure now shoots to 408/ 867. So the help they are sending better have some blood pressure
pills in their back pocket.
At this point, I’m whispering obscenities to the bot.
And then—like a retail superhero summoned by distress—an employee glides over holding a handheld device that looks far more competent than I feel. They tap three buttons. The machine instantly complies.
Please continue scanning. So it’s not that the zucchini was unexpected. It was unexpected from me.
There is something uniquely offensive about being corrected by a computer with a voice I could throat punch. If a human cashier notices you double-scanned an item, they gently fix it. The machine, however, announces your failure to the entire front end of the store.
Please remove the last item scanned. Loudly. Publicly. With the tone of a disappointed high school teacher.
And heaven forbid I try to bring my own reusable bags. Or pay with two different cards. Say, one for business and one for personal….. Nope, nada, not happening. Left handed? Give up now.
not interview for this job. Yet here I am, scanning barcodes with the intensity of someone defusing a bomb.
The irony, of course, is that self-checkout was designed for speed. Efficiency. Independence. And yet I have never felt more scrutinized in my life. There is a camera pointed directly at my face, and might I say, not in the least an attractive image, but sadly an accurate representation, broadcasting my diabolical expression onto the screen as if to say, “ War is peace. Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength.”
It’s hard not to feel like the machine suspects me. Every pause feels accusatory. Every mis-scan is a potential felony. The machine insists on right handed people.
I place my carefully folded canvas bag in the bagging area.
Please remove item from bagging area. It’s… a bag. That I plan to bag things in.
Help is on the way. Oh good. Let’s gather witnesses because somebody is gonna get hurt…..
By the time the attendant returns, I’ve already mentally drafted my resignation letter from my unpaid position as Temporary Grocery Associate. I did not apply for this job. I did
Help is on the way. For what? Clearance from corporate?
I can’t even imagine using cash. I have watched the others….The machine inhales the twenty-dollar bill like it’s analyzing it for signs of counterfeiting before grudgingly accepting that yes, you are simply buying one bunch of parsley. Or it spits it out 27 times while you find just the perfect bill in said wallet.
Finally, mercifully, the final declarationThank you for shopping with us!
The transaction is complete. I have scanned. I have bagged. I have triumphed. I have used words in all sorts of combinations that are not fit to write about here.
And yet I walk away feeling like I just completed a group project where I did all the work and the robot got the credit.
I promise you, Grocery Overlords, if I were going to embark on a life of crime, it would not involve sneaking off with a chunk of brie cheese. Maybe some cheap red so I can drink and forget about this experience.
Then comes the payment process. The grand finale. Now I put my “valued shopper” card in… oh the irony….. One would expect ching a ling in discounts.
One would be wrong.
Follow the instructions on the pin pad.
I tap. Nothing.
Follow the instructions on the pin pad. I tap again.
Insert card now. Why give me the choice of tap if tappity tap tap is NOT going to happen.
Please insert your card. I try.
Here’s the thing: I understand the appeal. Short lines. No small talk. Control over how your groceries are bagged. There is a certain satisfaction in hearing a rapid series of confident beeps, like you’ve mastered some domestic video game.
And yet—despite my sass, my sarcasm, my ongoing feud with the zucchini scale— I know I’ll be back. I have no choice. Guests come to a B&B for not just the bed, but for the breakfast….
And next week like clock work, I will walk into that glowing corral. Tapping. Welcome valued customer.
Whispering, “Alright….Let’s try this again,” putting my metaphorical cashier uniform on….
Because apparently I work here now.
And I’d like to think I deserve a raise.
10 HOT 10 HOT
by Craig Hewitt
As we welcome spring and witness nature
blooming back to life, we all long for a radiant, effortless glow that turns heads and sparks compliments. Whether you’re a busy mom seeking a quick reset or a conscientious guy hoping to refine a few rough edges, here are 10 transformative beauty rituals, from luxurious med spa facials to soothing at-home indulgences, that will refresh your skin, soothe your soul, and rekindle your inner fire.
Hydrafacial Glow Boost
lymph nodes, and igniting circulation for sculpted cheekbones and a lifted, rosy glow. It reduces puffiness overnight, enhancing natural beauty with gentle strokes. The NOW Massage in North Fort Worth provides expert Gua Sha facials.
Chemical Peel Renewal
This patented vortex-fusion treatment extracts impurities, exfoliates, and plumps your skin with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants for instant, dewy luminescence that lasts for days. Pores refine, texture smooths, revealing a fresh canvas of revitalized skin. Evolve Med Spa in Keller delivers this 30-minute glow-up with personalized boosters.
LED Light Therapy Sessions
Bathe your face in healing red and blue rays of light that awaken dormant collagen, banish blemishes, and soothe redness. This calming, hands-free ritual firms skin, evens tone, and imparts a radiant sheen without downtime. Men love its no-fuss, pore-clearing power. Restore Hyper Wellness in Roanoke offers targeted LED panels for positively glowing results.
A go-to option for anti-aging beauty treatments, customized peels dissolve dead cells, fade spots, and stimulate fresh renewal for velvety, even-toned radiance. Ideal for sun-damaged skin, they brighten your complexion without harshness. Fort Worth’s Pure Body Benefits specializes in custom facials and chemical peels for luminous resurfacing.
At-Home Mask Indulgences
Not all beauty rituals require a visit to the local spa. Transform your evenings into a spalike sanctuary with sheet masks brimming with vitamin C, niacinamide, or pearl extracts, drenching your skin in hydration while you relax in the comfort of your home. Masks plump, brighten, and detoxify your skin, nurturing a supple, ethereal glow. No pro needed. Check your local Ulta for options.
Body Polish Radiance Ritual
Gua Sha Sculpting Ritual
Inspired by a time-honored Eastern art, aestheticians glide cool rose quartz across your contours, melting tension, draining
Sweep away dead skin cells with sea salt glows and shea butter elixirs, followed by an infusion of infrared light that flushes toxins, kills bacteria, and stimulates collagen production. Add this to your beauty regimen if you want smooth, luminous skin. Woodhouse Spa in Roanoke offers luxurious body glow treatments.
Men's Facial Detox Retreat
Gentlemen, we deserve to look good, too.
Beauty Rituals to Help you RecaptuRe yououR
Reclaim smooth, invigorated skin with enzyme peels, blue algae masks, and cryotherapy that conquer oil, razor burn, and fatigue, unveiling a polished, confident edge. Quick and invigorating, you can easily fit them into a busy schedule. Boardroom Salon for Men in Keller specializes in men's facials.
Microneedling Collagen Surge
Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses fine needles to spark a collagen production. It plumps wrinkles, tightens pores, and evens texture for supple, youthful resilience, making it a med spa favorite. Pair with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for an amplified glow. Blu Magnolia Aesthetics just off of I-35W offers this transformative therapy.
Mindful Facial Yoga Flow
Yoga for your face? Yep, it’s a thing. Breathe life into your face with five-minute flows: lift brows, puff cheeks, and sculpt jaws to tone muscles, boost blood flow, and erase stress lines for a naturally contoured, awakened allure. This free ritual enhances any routine. Join classes at CorePower Yoga in Roanoke for guided glow sessions.
Scalp Revival Treatments
If you would love to have lustrous locks of hair, get to the root of the problem. Exfoliating scalp scrubs and LED combs unclog follicles, infuse peptides, and spur growth for voluminous hair that frames your face like a glorious mane. A healthier scalp means vibrant hair. Drybar in Alliance Town Center excels in scalp detox services.
A City That Reads, Thrives
In Fort Worth,
there are children who love stories — but cannot
yet read them on their own.
by Colleen McCullough
Behind every statistic about literacy is a child sitting in a classroom, trying their best. A child who may be bright, curious, and full of imagination, yet struggling quietly as letters and sounds refuse to come together in a way that makes sense.
Today, only 47% of students in Fort Worth are reading on grade level. But this is not just an education statistic. It represents thousands of young lives still waiting for the key that unlocks confidence, independence, and opportunity.
Literacy is more than an academic milestone. It is the gateway to full participation in society. When one cannot read proficiently, everyday tasks become barriers — road signs, job applications, medication labels, even voter registration cards. Accessing our civil rights becomes more challenging when we cannot easily access written lan-
guage. Reading is foundational to education, employment, and civic engagement.
That is why the City of Fort Worth, in partnership with Go Beyond Grades and Sid W. Richardson Foundation, launched Literacy Roundup, a community effort rooted in hope and early action. This summer, the initiative will provide free literacy screenings at 13 community centers across the city, working alongside local programs and civic partners to meet families where they are.
“The city absolutely needs to play a role in being a resource for families because our long-term success depends on a strong education system, and literacy is the key part of that,” said Mayor Mattie Parker.
The mission is simple — identify children who are struggling and offer support early, before discouragement sets in.
Caroline James, one of the organizers
behind Literacy Roundup, understands the issue personally.
“Our middle son, Andrew, has dyslexia. For years, he worked harder than anyone in the room just to keep up. He was tested twice in public school, and both times the diagnosis was missed. Meanwhile, he continued to fall further behind in reading. Not because he lacked intelligence, but because his brain processes language differently.”
As the gap widened, so did the emotional toll. Andrew began to withdraw. He struggled socially. He knew he couldn’t read at the same level as his peers, and that reality affected his confidence and sense of belonging. “Watching your child grow discouraged, even depressed, because he cannot access what others seem to do so easily is devastating for a family.” And it is heartbreaking for a community.
Caroline then made the difficult choice to transfer Andrew from a public school to a private school that served students with language based learning.
When Andrew finally received the appropriate intervention, everything began to change. His confidence returned. His academics improved. He started to see himself not as “behind,” but as capable. Today, he is doing so well, not because the struggle wasn’t real, but because the instruction finally matched how his brain learns.
“The city absolutely needs to play a role in being a resource for families because our long-term success depends on a strong education system — and literacy is the key part of that.”
Mattie Parker, Fort Worth Mayor
Andrew’s story is personal. But it is not unique.
For many families, literacy challenges are deeply personal. Dyslexia, the most common learning difference, often goes undetected in traditional classrooms. Children with dyslexia are not less capable. In fact, many are exceptionally bright. Their brains simply process language differently, and they need structured, direct instruction that connects sounds to symbols in a clear, consistent way.
When children receive the right help early, everything can change. Confidence grows. Academic gaps begin to close. A child who once avoided reading starts to raise their hand.
Research shows that third grade is an important milestone in literacy development. Children who are not reading on grade level by then are more likely to struggle later in school. But this is not a story about inevitable outcomes. It is a story about intervention and possibility.
Last year, Literacy Roundup screened approximately 400 children in summer programs across the city. Of those, 130 were identified as at risk for dyslexia and referred for further evaluation. For families, navigating the testing process can feel confusing and intimidating. Timelines, forms, educational terminology — it can be a lot.
That is where the heart of Literacy Roundup shines. Community partners, advocates, and trained volunteers walk alongside parents, helping them understand their rights and next steps.
Importantly, this initiative is not about blame. It is about shared responsibility. It is about asking a simple question. What do our children need to thrive?
And every child deserves that chance, including in our own backyard. Literacy Roundup is serving students as close as Comanche Springs in Saginaw.
Brains are adaptable. Children are resilient. And when a city chooses to rally around literacy — not with blame, but with collective responsibility — hope becomes action.
For more information on how to get your child tested, or how to become an advocate contact: FortWorthTexas. gov/departments/ parks/services/literacy-roundup
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