Fort Worth Magazine - January 2009

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Worth the Drive

Ring in the New Year in Gruene, Texas with Robert Earl Keen at the oldest operating dance hall in Texas. by Jennifer CassedayBlair

Worth Repeating

Get the latest and greatest scoop on the happenings of Fort Worth in this month’s Worth Repeating.

Worth Framing

Peruse our party pics and see who’s out and about this season.

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Worthy Cause: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation by Ana Bak

Worth Cooking

Ring in the New Year with Chocolate Snow Balls by Judie Byrd

View our Worth Doing section for a complete guide to Fort Worth’s events.

Blue Mint Thai & Asian Cuisine by Ana Bak

Roy Lee Ward, Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo program artist for more than 30 years by Ana Bak

Ginger Allen, anchor for CBS 11 News This

When the Jar-Opener Goes Down by Shauna Glenn

thanks from arkansas

Greetings,

We had guests from Fort Worth this week and had the honor of reading your magazine, Fort Worth, Texas magazine, from cover to cover. What a great piece of work. You must all be really proud of this publication.

I was especially drawn to the story “Mr. Baseball: Bobby Bragan.” If my memory serves me right, I remember the Fort Worth Cats coming to Houston to play the Buffs many years ago.

What a wonderful human interest story. You must be real proud of Jennifer Casseday-Blair on your staff. I want to comment on the magazine as a whole—very first class. Whoever is responsible for your staff, just keep on doing it right.

A great read from beginning to end. Thanks to you all from Arkansas. Best wishes for continued success, Peggy Cardwell corrections

In the “Spirit of Giving” article in the December issue, the name of the vice president of United Way was spelled incorrectly. Her name is Lynn Pharr.

talk to us!

We welcome all suggestions, comments and questions about Fort Worth, Texas magazine and the articles we publish for the Fort Worth community. Send comments by visiting us online at fwtx.com. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

hulme

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fort worth , texas : the city’s magazine is published monthly by Fort Worth , texas M agazine Venture , LP, 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Suite 130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116.

Basic subscription price: $23.95 per year. Single copy price: $3.95. Application to mail at periodical postage rates is pending at Fort Worth, Texas. P o ST m AST er : Send address changes to fort worth , texas , 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Suite 130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116. ©2008 Fort Worth, Texas Magazine Venture, LP. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

how to contact us

For questions or comments concerning editorial content, contact Hal Brown, publisher, at 817.560.6115 or via e-mail (hbrown@fwtexas.com).

Weight loss surgery at Baylor helped me turn “fat” into “fit.”

“I tried many, many diets and nothing worked,” claims Elaine Hebert. “I always went back to my old eating habits.”

When her doctor said the excess weight increased her risk for diabetes, she knew she had to do something. She elected to have gastric bypass surgery performed at Baylor Medical Center at Southwest Fort Worth and has been impressed with the comprehensive care she’s received. “Everyone I’ve dealt with has been very helpful,” she says.

Today, Elaine is 131 pounds lighter, walks three miles every morning and has a much more positive attitude. “It’s the best thing I’ve ever done for myself,” she adds, “and the best thing I’ve ever done for my family.”

HARVESTING TRADITIONS

If you are like me,

you’re probably taking a deep breath from holiday-tradition overload. Every year it’s the same exhausting search for the perfect gifts, the same gluttonous feast and the same stress-filled relative visits—rites of passage we claim to dread but secretly enjoy. However, this holiday season was a little different for me. My husband and I got married in April, so we celebrated our first Christmas as husband and wife, welcoming new traditions and new holiday experiences of our own … so we thought.

A few weeks ago, after spending five hours searching for ornaments and ribbon in a sea of discount shoppers, I assembled my first Christmas tree with intentions of making it a one-of-a-kind. After the last ornament was hung and the ribbon perfected, I stepped back to admire my inaugural evergreen. It occurred to me that my Yule tree strangely resembled my mother’s tree, which is covered in deer antler, owl and squirrel ornaments—decorations I have historically judged. Rather than purchase mainstream Santa, snowflake and Rudolph ornaments, I subconsciously opted to throw duck, bird and fish ornaments into my shopping cart.

Now it’s not completely shocking that I took the unconventional route as my husband and I are quite fond of the outdoors; he is an avid duck hunter and fisherman, while I seem to just tag along and catch bigger fish. However, I truly believe we all have a latent desire to harvest traditional aspects of the holiday season and New Year celebrations—mine just happened to confirm that I am in fact just like my mother. Case in point, for 113 years, people have traveled from all corners of the country to christen the New Year with a 24-day tradition in Fort Worth. Offering a thrilling rodeo and the best livestock shows in the country, the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo (Jan. 16—Feb. 8) is the oldest continuous livestock show in the United States and a yearly tradition adopted by thousands of families. Edward P. Bass, chairman of the board, says it best: “This thing may be legendary, but every Show is a new experience.” While the Stock Show (pg. 20) is known for being rich in tradition and strives to stay true to its roots, it is also working to bring new experiences to patrons every year with new events, new shows and even a new chute system.

And just as the Stock Show seeks to add new features to its 113-year legacy, we too have a couple of New Year’s resolutions of our own. From its birth, the magazine’s publishers knew it was a great concept—a glossy magazine that would represent Cowtown with style and substance. What they didn’t know at the time, but learned very soon through reader feedback, was that the city wanted them to succeed as much as they did. Your voices and suggestions have been heard, and as a result, Fort Worth, Texas magazine is proud to announce that a few new and exciting changes are on the drawing board for 2009—all ambitious and all complementary to the visions we have for the city’s magazine. After all, as Winston Churchill once said, “There’s nothing wrong with change if it’s in the right direction.”

January marks our 122nd issue, and with it we officially close the book on 2008. Thank you for spending this past year with us, and we look forward to sharing stories with you as we continue to grow in 2009 and beyond. Wishing you happiness and prosperity throughout the coming year, from your friends at Fort Worth, Texas magazine.

Amy Hallford-Turman editor

Early New Year’s Resolutions

New Year’s resolutions aren’t something people usually take very seriously. But because of the unprecedented downturn in the financial markets, things are probably going to be quite a bit different for you and me this year. Changes will have to be made. In fact, on New Year’s Day, after lounging around the house listening to Lars, the exchange student, singing a broken English version of “Your Body is a Wonderland,” I resolved to do three things immediately:

1) Reassess my financial goals for the future

2) Buy Lars those Rosetta Stone CD’s

3) Maybe quit drinking

However, I realize that before anyone can make realistic goals, they have to take three things into account: first, the current overall financial picture; second, their personal attributes and shortcomings; third, reasonable expectations of what the future might bring.

Now, as everyone knows, the economy is looking very bleak. People are having to cut back on necessities and spend more time at home with their families … or as Bill Clinton calls it, a lose-lose situation. Plus, it’s extremely difficult to get credit. It’s sad, but at least banks are still making lifestyle loans to people who are trying to live in Rivercrest. They aren’t? Oh man, these are dark times.

Next, take a personal inventory and get your life in order. You can simply start by cleaning up your home. Throw away all those worthless baubles and trinkets you’ve been collecting and kick the heavier garbage to the curb. This would include old sofa cushions, broken end tables or a sleeping ex-spouse.

This would also be a great time to further your education. One can’t underestimate its importance, and it’s one of the achievements of which I’m most proud. As some of you may know, I studied near Stanford University and got out of college in three years, mainly because I was tired of being a freshman.

However, the most important thing to overcome is resistance to change. Take the city of Fort Worth for example. For years, citizens complained about the confusion at the five-way intersection of University Drive and Camp Bowie Boulevard. Finally, after extensive planning and a costly renovation, the city turned one of the worst intersections in Texas into one of the worst in the world.

So what lies ahead? Ten years from now, will you be in the cabin of a Gulfstream on the way to Aspen,

or in the bathroom of a Greyhound on the way to Dollywood? Truth is, I don’t think the future will be about greed and the individual pursuit of wealth. I think it will be more about helping each other for the greater good. Now don’t get me wrong. I’m no liberal. I don’t like cats or candles. But we all share misfortune. Just the other day, when a homeless person raised his tin cup, I knew all the change he really wanted was my 2 cents worth. So I told him how down-and-out I was when my cable went out for a couple of hours. I could tell by the way he hurled that half-eaten burrito at me that he knew he was no longer alone. It made me feel better. Helping others might make you feel better, too. Anyway, happy New Year.

by Heywood

Heywood is a morning show host at 95.9 FM The Ranch. All complaints can be directed to Heywood@TheRanchRadio.com.

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Keen is Coming to Gruene

Ring in the New Year with Robert Earl Keen at the oldest operating dance hall in Texas. by Jennifer Casseday-Blair

This year, experience a bona fide texas new year’s eve entertained by great country music in a 6,000-square-foot dance hall.

On Dec. 31, at 8 p.m., Robert Earl Keen will grace the famous Gruene Hall (830.606.1281), which has welcomed such legendary musicians as George Strait, Lyle Lovett, Garth Brooks, The Dixie Chicks and Willie Nelson. The performance will also include special guest Toni Price.

Located about four hours southwest of Fort Worth, near New Braunfels, Gruene is less than an hour away from both Austin and San Antonio. The town attracts some of the most prolific musical talent in American history. Gruene, pronounced “green,” prides itself on “gently resisting change since 1872” and has become famous for housing the oldest dance hall in Texas, built in the 1880s. Gruene Hall has continuously been in operation since its opening, even during the 1925 boll weevil infestation that nearly devastated this cotton-producing town. The dance hall has been featured in several magazines and used in the filming of many commercials and movies, coming a long way from its early days of hosting badger and dog fights.

Gruene General Store (830.629.6021), which was selected as one of the 40 best places to visit in Texas and features an old-time soda fountain, homemade fudge and Texas foods. The Grapevine is another great place to stop for a taste and take-away of some of the wines Texas has to offer. If you sip more than you should, you may be seeking lodging for the evening.

With an abundance of bed and breakfasts to choose from, Gruene Mansion Inn (830.629.2641) is a visitor’s favorite because of its rustic Victorian elegance. It was originally the home of the town’s founder, Henry D. Gruene, and still stands proudly on the banks of the Guadalupe River, a stone’s throw away from Gruene Hall. It’s easy to relax at Gruene Mansion Inn with views of the river and in-room fireplaces.

dance hall dreamer / Gruene Hall, the oldest operating dance hall in Texas, is celebrating the New Year Texas-style with country legend Robert Earl Keen.

Pat Molak and Mary Jane Nalley rescued many of the buildings in town that had been abandoned after the Great Depression, making sure to preserve the town’s authenticity. Molak purchased Gruene Hall in 1975 and, with the help of friend Nalley, re-established the hall as the heart of Gruene.

The dance hall is not the only reason for visiting Gruene. Considered a shopper’s paradise, this town is swarming with antique and specialty shops. Enjoy the nostalgic setting of Gruene Antique Company (830.629.7781)— 6,500 square feet of antiques and gifts housed in the H. D. Gruene’s Texas Landmark mercantile building with its original bank vault. Visitors are also charmed by

After checking into your cozy B&B, it’s time to check out one of the town’s charming restaurants. Gristmill River Restaurant (830.625.0684), open since 1977, sits beneath the water tower on the river. It offers unique Texas-style dining in an 1870s cotton gin. However, there are several other charming riverfront restaurants to dine in. On the way out of town, stop at Gruene Coffee Haus (830.625.5527) and grab a beverage from their full espresso bar for the scenic drive home.

Whether tubing down the Guadalupe River, spending the day shopping or dancing the night away, Gruene offers a little bit of something for everyone. fw

HYBRID HOLIDAYS / Travel into the New Year with style in Lexus’ GS 450h Hybrid sedan, which defines rebellious luxury.

Worth Repeating

Whether it’s Texas Cowboy Hall of Famers or champion elk callers, see how Tarrant County citizens are making headlines.

Western Royalty

The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame will welcome six new honorees selected to join the ranks of hall of famers Ty Murray, George Strait and Tuff Hedeman, to name a few. Inclusion in this Western fraternity is the highest honor the Hall of Fame bestows on individuals who have shown excellence in competition, business and support of rodeo and the Western lifestyle in Texas. This year’s inductees include none other than native Texan actors Barry Corbin and Tommy Lee Jones. Corbin, who is the 2009 recipient of the Rick Smith Spirit of Texas Award, which celebrates the uniqueness of Texas and Texans, is a world-renowned actor of the stage, screen and television, and donated the steer that is currently the lead animal for the Fort Worth Herd in the Stockyards. Jones, a longtime friend of Corbin’s, is an eighth generation Texan and was selected for his accomplishments as a rancher and champion Polo player. He also breeds champion Polo ponies. Additional inductees are: Jim Bob Altizer, a 1995 National Cowboy Hall of Famer; Tyler Magnus, star of his own television show “The Roping Show with Tyler Magnus” on RFD television; Rope Myers, a former PRCA World Champion Steer Wrestler who has dedicated his life to the Christian ministry of wrangling at a Christian youth camp in Van; and Ken Welch, a former PRCA Champion Saddle Bronc Rider and son of Buster Welch, known as the king of the cutting horse industry.

Home of tHe frogs

Fort Worthians now have yet another reason to boast about their great city. In lieu of football bowl season, Coldwell Banker recently ranked major college football towns by home affordability. And as can be expected, two cities in the great football state of Texas pushed their way to the top 10. With an average home price of $148,625, Fort Worth ranked third on the company’s College Home Price Comparison Index. TCU is also at the top of its peers in the Mountain West Conference, where the average home price is $304,609. Boasting two universities—the University of Houston and Rice University—Houston came in sixth with an average home price of $158,412. Almost making the cut was Lubbock, home of the Red Raiders, which ranked 11th. Akron, Ohio, home of the University of Akron, was ranked the most affordable market with an average home price of $135,780, while Palo Alto, Calif., host to Stanford University, fell to the bottom of the charts with a $1.7 million average home price.

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Stitching for Dignitaries

Fort Worth residents Sualice Armstrong, Diann Stadler and Sally Vaughn were in stitches when they, as well as seven other women across the country, were selected to refabricate the kneelers on the high altar of the National Cathedral in Washington. The three experienced needlepointers, all members of First United Methodist Church of Fort Worth, were honored in late October during a dedication ceremony honoring the needlepoint work performed by 10 volunteers, hailing from Texas, Georgia, Maryland, Michigan and Virginia. Though Episcopalian, the National Cathedral in Washington is a historical marker for all faiths as it is the location of President Woodrow Wilson’s tomb, features a rock brought back from the moon, and has played host to funerals for Presidents Reagan, Gerald Ford and Dwight Eisenhower.

One-of-a-kind Dragon

Carroll Senior High School is listed among 24 collegiate and professional athletic teams across the country—but not for its football program. Artist Mike Sullivan is actively working on a series of 25 sports murals for collegiate and professional teams that will showcase something special about each team, and CSHS was the only high school in the country chosen to receive a mural. Hundreds of students gathered Nov. 14 for the unveiling of their custom 20-foot-tall dragon mural, which required Sullivan to spend three weeks at his studio in Orange County, Calif., sketching the logo, getting it approved by the school, and actually painting it on the canvas before it was shipped off to be transferred to 12-inch ceramic tiles and finally assembled at the school. Other schools that will or already have received murals include the University of South Carolina, Louisiana State University and the University of Texas, whose mural depicts the tower and its mascot, Bevo. When Sullivan completes all 25 murals, a book will be printed with pictures of the murals, and an exhibit will also open in Las Vegas that will showcase the original canvas paintings.

Calling all Elk

The dominant fighting squeals unique to elk will be heard across Cowtown in March, but don’t reach for your gun. The Fort Worth Convention Center has hosted a wide range of events, including conventions, conferences, corporate meetings and concerts, but none as eccentric as The World Elk Calling Championship scheduled for March 5-8. Men and women of all ages will congregate in Cowtown to compete in six divisions for the title of World Elk Calling Champion, part of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s 25th Annual Elk Camp and Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo. Contestants are required to perform a series of calls imitating the natural vocalizations of elk and will be judged by wildlife biologists, naturalists, hunters, guides and outfitters.

Seconds Beyond

Beyond Seconds

Cowboys and bullfighters make sacrifices year-round in order to gain their 8 seconds in the spotlight at the annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo.

There will be over 1,000 rodeo contestants this year in the 113th Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, all of who will be competing for a chance to win enough money to get them to the next rodeo on their trail. Most won’t win anything, but making it to Fort Worth’s iconic event may be reward enough. These tough souls put their bodies at risk and their lives on hold, following their passion to rope and ride, all just to hear their name called overhead as victors in their sport. Despite broken bones, little pay and not a lot of limelight, it is the cheer of the crowd and the glory of the win that keeps them addicted to their often uncertain profession.

Hanging On

The oldest bull rider in professional rodeo is preparing for another year of competition. Dave Samsel contemplated retirement, but the 37-year-old chose to forego job hunting in a weak economy and will keep riding for now. Samsel admits he’s becoming a bit tired and often misses his own bed when on the road, but he won’t pass up the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo or other major rodeos that may be worth the drive. “I don’t travel as hard as I did when I was 25,” Samsel said.

Samsel moved from Kansas to Stephenville in his early 20s to begin what became a very successful career in professional bull riding with Professional Bull Riders Inc. (PBR), where he says the bigger money is. He traveled with the PBR for more than 10 years and even earned a spot on a televised tour, earning a decent paycheck and even more income in sponsorships. But on the PBR circuit, Samsel couldn’t pick and choose events as he desired. He was con-

tracted to perform at specific shows 46 weekends out of the year, and was required to attend provided that he wasn’t suffering from major injuries.

“It just seemed like every weekend I would get up, drive to the airport, get on a plane, fly to some city, go to the arena, go to the hotel and then fly home. It became routine,” he said.

Although the pay was less, Samsel switched gears in 2007 and began to compete in rodeos again, traveling months at a time.

That same year, he qualified for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) and found a new sense of life, he says. But even while flourishing in a challenging career, Samsel believes rodeo cowboys don’t get the respect they deserve.

“Motorcycle riders with Motocross are making more money than we are,” he said. “Their endorsements are more than ours, and how many motorcycle races do you see on TV?”

Samsel believes the history and tradition of rodeo events are highlighted more than the athletes competing in them. He faults Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) with not doing more for marketing or player development. He is so passionate about the issue, he would like to begin a public relations and marketing career within the industry himself.

“The cowboys are a dying breed and [the PRCA is] not doing anything to try to get memberships up. They’re not accommodating the cowboys,” he said.

Pointing out that the most expensive tickets offered at a rodeo sell out first, Samsel says the public interest is evident.

“When Tuff Hedeman has his bull riding in Fort Worth, the only thing that holds his ticket sales down is the [lack] of seating at Will Rogers,” he explained.

To compensate his pay cut from the PBR and his sponsorships, Samsel has a small construction business on the side, doing ceramic tile work and constructing metal buildings. He splits bills with a roommate, and says sleeping in his backseat after driving all night to a rodeo is not uncommon. He would rather forego a hotel room for the $60 or $70 he saves. Regarding life at home, Samsel only has to answer to his Rottweiler, Poncho, who’s still happy to see him when he’s been gone on the road. Samsel has been engaged

twice and acknowledges that his demanding lifestyle puts pressure on his relationships. But his rodeo family is a big one, and Samsel says everyone has open arms.

“It’s amazing how close the rodeo community is. You end up with a lot of friends,” he said. “When the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo comes in, there will be 10 to 12 guys who come through my house.”

It’s the behind-the-scenes bonding moments that keep the cowboys going. When Samsel talks about the times when he and his buddies made the drive to “San Antone” and pulled over to fish and camp for two days, or the time they all got together for steaks after a big win, the pride of camaraderie is apparent in his voice.

Of his decision to make bull riding his lifelong path, Samsel said, “I might have changed the directions a few times but would have never changed the destination.”

Glamorous

Mispercep-

tion Some are surprised that

Shanna Weaver, publicity manager for the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, is busy year-round with an event that lasts just about three weeks. But Weaver says closing out a rodeo doesn’t happen until almost two months after the event, and planning for the next year begins immediately thereafter. While busy with paperwork, permits, promotions and staffing, Weaver acknowledges the sacrifices the rodeo participants make just to have a shot at competing in a rodeo like Fort Worth’s.

“They are extremely passionate or they wouldn’t have the drive to continue,” she said. “That’s obviously a road they’ve chosen to go down. It’s not an easy lifestyle, so it has to be one they love.”

Weighed against professional sports leagues like the NFL and NBA, rodeo pales in comparison regarding compensation and benefits. Weaver points out that NFL and NBA athletes get paid regardless if their team loses. Cowboys are alone, making their own way, with no big contract to fall back on.

“There’s a glamorous persona that people have of cowboys. It seems like it’s all about having fun, but those guys are very driven and very careful with their bodies,” Weaver said. “They’re taking care of themselves, trying to get enough sleep and exercising. You’ll find

those guys to be some of the fittest guys there are. They have got to be in shape in order to take the pain.”

At any rate, the paychecks don’t seem to match the athleticism.

While professional sports organizations have more funds available, rodeo is much more individualized.

“It’s a single cowboy in a single event versus a major team that’s part of a major organization,” Weaver said. “I don’t think the common public understands the athleticism you have to have as one of those cowboys or cowgirls to be able to compete at that level. I don’t think there’s that appreciation.”

The Young and Eager

When 19-year-old Drew Horner hears his name called overhead in the rodeo arena as the next team roping contestant up to the chute, his heartbeat accelerates and the adrenaline rush begins.

“A lot of things are going through my mind,” he said. “I have to make myself focus on one job and get it done.”

Whether the steer he draws runs hard, runs left or runs in a zig-zag, by this point, Horner has already contemplated a game plan

with his partner. He is 100 percent focused on the task at hand, and in just four to five seconds, his job is done. He’ll wait to see how well he fared and whether or not he’s made money, which may or may not be enough to pay for his travels. Regardless, Horner will get ready to do it all over again the very next weekend.

He ropes seven days a week, practicing after community college classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays and competing every weekend at different rodeos across the country. There are thousands just like him—young men looking to snag a spot in the seemingly glamorous rodeo limelight, where free-spirited cowboys ride off into the sunset, victorious and triumphant. But in a dangerous industry where no insurance is provided and compensation is not guaranteed, rodeo life is tough for many to hang their hat on.

“You’ve gotta win to keep going,” said the young Plano native. “It’s hard to make a living at it. A lot of people try, but there are only a few people that really do. People [compete] until they run out of money, they come home and work,

and then they go again. Even if you are winning, if you’re not winning enough, you’re not going to be able to stay out there.”

But the financial risk or the likelihood of injury doesn’t stop Horner from dreaming. Being so young and living at home, Horner has it somewhat easier than those who have mouths to feed or bills to pay. He’s been roping since he was 14, following the footsteps of his father, who roped for 15 years. Though he lives in Plano, Horner says most of his buddies live in Weatherford and other areas out west. He spends many of his weekends at Cowtown Coliseum, competing in the open rodeo that costs him about $65 to register. Like many teenage guys, Horner played football, baseball and hockey in high school, but he began taking roping seriously his senior year, looking to make a lifestyle of the sport.

“I really wanted to be good at it,” he said. “Right now, I’m trying to learn as much as I can.”

Horner may make anywhere from $300 to a few thousand dollars at a time, but his purses could grow as he evolves to larger rodeos. He hasn’t competed in the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo yet, but he feels confident that 2009 is his year. PRCA rodeos require permits and a PRCA membership

card that’s granted based on the amount of money cowboys have won. PRCA hopefuls must pay fees for permits and membership cards. Horner won’t know if he qualifies for the Fort Worth Rodeo until registration opens a couple of weeks before the event.

Bright-eyed and hopeful, Horner only waits for his shot at bigger competitions, ignoring the risks involved and admitting he would not want a job where he sat at a desk all day.

“I’m just kind of ADD,” he said, laughing. “I love it. Hanging around it all … I love horses, I love rodeos. Even if I lose, I still love it. I know I want to rodeo all the way through college, and try to see what I can get done. It’s hard to take away from something you have a drive for.

An “Outlaw’s” Pain Ask Jesse Vick how many injuries he’s had since he started bullfighting six years ago, and he won’t get into numbers.

“I don’t go into the arena thinking about all of the injuries because

I would never show up,” he said.

The reality is, this 27-yearold rodeo professional has had broken, torn and separated collarbones, torn muscles, torn knees and several broken ribs. On one brutal occasion, a bull literally scalped him to the skull, stepping on his head and then skidding off, removing some of his hair. But the only concern he had once he came out of unconsciousness was the well-being of the rider. Two weeks later, with 13 or 14 staples in his head, he was back in the arena, dodging horns and moving his feet, aiming to get the angry bull’s attention away from the departing cowboy who had just completed his ride.

“I couldn’t tell you the level of pain that I’ve gone through,” Vick said. “I couldn’t describe the pain the morning after getting hooked really bad. If I had known what that pain was, I never would have started. “

But Vick has built such a reputation for himself, there’s no turning back. He is the head bullfighter at Cowtown Coliseum and at Billy

making an impact / The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, honored with the Chamber’s “Spirit of Enterprise Award” a few years ago, generates an economic impact in excess of $100 million for the Fort Worth area.

Bob’s Texas, and has been at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo since 2004. Nicknamed “Outlaw,” Vick says the rewards of bullfighting always outweigh the injuries, and his fire for the sport is fueled by knowing the cowboy he’s protecting rides better when he’s in the arena.

“When they’re upside down and they hang on longer just for that split second because they know I’m going to be there, that’s a big reward,” he said. “There are some bullfighters who go in there and never get hit, but the cowboy gets hit. But in my mind, if it’s me or the cowboy, it’s going to be me first. And if he gets hit, I’m going to be on the ground with him.”

A Burleson native and former high school football player, Vick graduated and went on to be a mechanic at a nearby car dealership, wondering if he would stay in the field. His dad had competed in rodeos and his mom rode barrels in high school, so rodeo was in his blood. After a bad day at work, Vick said, he knew he really needed to think about making a career change. He began to list options for himself in the rodeo industry and found that the only segment he could relate his football skills to was bullfighting.

“The more and more I looked at it, the more and more I fell in love

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with it,” he said.

Vick visited a practice pen in Mansfield called Cowbell, and practiced there for only two weeks before he landed his first gig. A colleague helped him get lined up with Billy Bob’s, and soon after, he was qualified to participate with PBR and became a PRCA member. He won the NFR freestyle bullfighting competition months later in Vegas and today, Vick now hires the bullfighters for both Billy Bob’s and Cowtown Coliseum. It still took Vick three years to finally quit his mechanic job, as he waited until it got in the way of his fighting.

“It was scary because you start questioning yourself. Am I good enough to compete at the level to do it as a job?” he explained. “Am I that good to where I can’t get hurt and deal with the pain to go to the next rodeo? It’s like taking a gamble on a dream.”

Vick says he has learned to target pain and push it aside to mentally focus on his duty as a fighter. He says it’s difficult for his

wife to watch him when he gets hit, and she holds her breath until he bounces back.

“Most of the time it looks worse than it is,” he said. “Whether you get hurt or not, what about the guy who gets on the bull next? Does he not ride his bull because you’re hurt?”

When Vick tore his calf once at Billy Bob’s, he said he had to sprint back and forth outside for 30 minutes to keep his leg from stiffening up before the next show. He had no choice but to go back out there because, as he puts it, in bullfighting, there’s no “second string.”

“If you’re a wimp and you’re like, ‘Please don’t hit me,’ you won’t make it,” he said. “I go into it thinking this is the last one and that I may not make it to the next rodeo. If I do make the next one, then I’m happy.”

Not only does Vick face the potential for weekly injuries, the traveling involved in his profession is costly and demanding. Vick said hotels were eating him alive, so he decided a trailer was more cost-ef-

where legends are made / Well into its second century, the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo will welcome its 113th year on Jan. 16. A million people are expected to attend this 24-day event, which ends Feb. 8.

fective for road trips. He prepares his own meals and stays on the rodeo grounds, helping with the cattle he enjoys being around. Describing the scene behind the lights of the arena before a show, Vick says there’s evident camaraderie amongst rodeo participants.

When he’s not on the road, Vick frequents the gym and stays busy with his 2-year-old son. When asked if he would support his son following his footsteps, Vick says yes, but with caution.

“There are setbacks in every job, and for me, the [main] setback is injuries,” he said. “But in this case, your body is taking care of itself. It’s nothing that you can’t get fixed, so the setback is minor. If my son gets into it, that’s fine. I’m going to leave the window open for him.”

Still, Vick won’t quit today, tomorrow or anytime soon. He says once he is no longer able to fight, he will become a rodeo clown, using the barrel for protection and providing humor for the crowds at the shows.

“I see people that do everything they’re supposed to do, and then they get killed in a car wreck. And I basically go jump in front of cars, and I’m still here,” he said. “I expect the worst and hope for the best. I’ll stay in rodeo my whole life.” fw

Thanks to all of our wonderful sponsors.

22nd Annual

Cosmopolitan Cowtown Fashion Show, Luncheon and Boutique Shopping

Presenting sPonsor: Dillard’s

Platinum sPonsors: Cook Children’s

JPS Health Network- Partners Together for Health Plaza Medical Center of Fort Worth

gold sPonsors:

Baylor All Saints Medical Center at Fort Worth

Radiology Associates of Tarrant County

USMD Hospital

Wells Fargo

HealthPoint

Fort Worth, Texas magazine

Benefiting:

The Community Health Projects of the Tarrant County Medical Society Alliance and Foundation, Inc.

fashion show Committee: President of TCMS Alliance and Foundation, Inc.

Mary Ann Shelton

2008 Fashion Show Chairmen

Layna Chase and Barbara Evans

Committee memBers:

Kimberly Agoro

Lea Cane

Christel Chase

Caryl Cochrum

Angela Donahue

Katie Dyslin

Pennie Ellis

Linda Kennedy

Mary Ann Kleuser

Marilyn Kobs

Margaret McDonald

Marisa Mercer

Nola Miley

Sara Jane O’Brien

Kelly Pumphrey

Ellen Rogers

DeVonne Tatum

Karie Vargas

Carmon Weeden

The Spirit of Giving… Begins with You.

Financial

$traights

Get some plain talk from four economic pros, who position the economy and ways to stay stable during these shaky times.

by Alison Rich

With banks folding, housing tumbling and retailers crumbling, today’s woebegone economy is enough to drop even the most self-assured investor to his or her knees. Mind you, we’re unquestionably in the midst of a monetary maelstrom, but—though the media might report otherwise—there is light at the end of this long, dark tunnel, says our panel of econ experts, who share their strategies for fiscal solvency. Things are far from copasetic, to be sure, but with patience, practicality and a positive attitude, stability is within reach.

Jim Tucker CLU, IPA Financial Services Inc. (Securities offered through ProEquities Inc., a registered brokerdealer, member FINRA and SIPC. IPA is independent of ProEquities.)

Financial consultant Jim Tucker follows the Dave Ramsey approach to finance. (Host of nationally syndicated radio program The Dave Ramsey Show, Ramsey is known for his common-sense, down-with-debt philosophy, where the patient persevere—and profit.) “Ramsey’s approach is very simple. It’s kind of the old tortoise-and-hare story,” he describes of Ramsey’s—and his—slow-and-steady strategy of staying debt-free and living within your means. “Credit

is probably the No. 1 problem in America today. It’s subtle and seductive and sneaks up on people. We rationalize it by saying, ‘If this doesn’t happen, If this doesn’t happen’. But what was never going to happen is always going to happen. You can bet on it. The plan is to get out of debt and stay out of debt.”

The typical car payment, for instance, is $416 per month, Tucker says. But if you drove a paid-for vehicle and rolled the money you would have spent on a monthly payment into a Roth IRA for the next 40 years at a 12 percent return, you’d accrue more than $4 million in four decades.

“It’s very simple,” Tucker asserts. “Buy what you can af-

ford and don’t try to prove something. In our society, we’re always trying to keep up with the Joneses. The only problem is, the Joneses are broke.”

Tucker’s Tips

• Save 10 to 15 percent of what you make each year.

• Create a zero-balance budget, noting how much money you have and how you’re going to spend it and then writing down every dollar spent. Allocate money to the various items—the house, utilities and all the have-to pays—and when what’s left over is gone, you’re done spending until next month. “You get out of debt by getting a hold of what’s being spent.”

• “We believe that mutual funds are the way for people to handle their money. You put your money in on a regular basis and let it go.”

• “It’s never too late to start changing your ways. People don’t realize that they are the ones empowered to make the changes, but they first have to decide they want to change.”

Michael Dallas CFP,

Michael Dallas Wealth Management

Uncertain times engender opportunities for growth and prosperity, says Michael Dallas CFP, a strategic wealth

manager who specializes in helping retirees. “The [current] issues are real, and we’re all concerned about them,” he says, “but sometimes we miss the silver lining.” One reason to be optimistic? A market upturn is in the offing, Dallas notes. “While the stock market is amazingly hard to predict, we have very good historical data on recessions,” he explains. “In every recession on record, the market recovers long before the recession is over. History indicates that investors who hang on through this discouraging downturn will be handsomely rewarded in the not-too-distant future.”

Though they conjure images of Depression-era hardship, recessions aren’t all bad. “With few exceptions, they bring great opportunity for bargain shopping,” Dallas says, including retailers clearing everything from small tickets such as clothing and appliances to large items such as automobiles, furniture and even houses.”

And, he adds, fixed-interest annuities are paying the best rates in a decade. “We’re seeing A+ interest rates in the 6 percent range,” Dallas says. “These rising rates are a godsend for people like retirees, who live on their interest income.”

Today’s tumultuous times also are a godsend in another way, he points out: They provide people a chance to mull what’s truly important. “There’s no better way to show our kids and grandkids that good and bad times come and go. But what’s really important is our families and our relationships,” Dallas says. “If we keep our priorities straight, the other things will take care of themselves.”

Jim Conover, UNT finance professor

Make a goal-oriented spending plan that you can stick to, along with a savings metric that achieves your most important goals, says UNT professor Jim Conover. “You can

“We’re so blessed to be in this area. We have people who come here who are entrepreneurial and looking for a better life and have built up companies that are prospering …There’s a bit of a different spirit down here than I’ve seen in other parts of the country. It says a lot for the area and the foresight of some of our past leaders. Who would have thought that Fort Worth would have grown at the rate it has in the past 10 years?

I don’t think anyone could have forecasted that.”

—Bob Albritton, Prospera Financial

only spend your money one time,” he notes, “so pick the one that gives you the most satisfaction, knowing that you will have less [to spend] on other things.”

Although the entire nation has been battered, the Metroplex has fared better than most. “Locally, we’re a lot stronger than the rest of the country,” Conover says. “We’ve had companies moving to our area, and that has given us jobs and has also held up our housing prices.”

Conover’s Tips

• Don’t live beyond your projected income. “To be safe, you should have a couple of months’ cash to cover your living expenses. Sticking to a budget is important when things are uncertain and unstable.”

• Be cautious about what you spend, tracking expenses for two to three months so you know exactly where your money is going.

• It’s wise to consult a certified financial planner to help develop a plan and keep you on track. And stick to one set of planning guidelines, instead of going with the “one of the moment.”

• Not surprisingly, Conover is pro-education, noting the plethora of finance-related books on the market filled with—quite literally—a wealth of useful information. “We’re living in a time of change,” he says, “so stay informed. Educating yourself is key.”

Bob Albritton, Prospera Financial

Keeping a cool head is crucial in today’s moderating market, maintains Bob Albritton, a broker with the Fort Worth office of Dallas-based Prospera. “This is the time that some people are going to get wealthy, but most of us would do best to stay in a non-panic mode and not throw up our hands and completely retreat,” he says. “When we’re in a recession, the best thing about it is that we’re going to come out of it.”

The constant barrage of dismal press from news outlets, however, can be alarming, Albritton bemoans. “It will drive you crazy,” he says, citing his clients’ near-panic reaction after listening to talk radio or watching a news show. “When they call me, it’s like they’ve run a mile they’re breathing so hard.”

That said, U.S. citizens in general are a resilient lot, cleaving to the American Dream. “We’re still the land of opportunity and people clamber to get here. You just have

to be a little more cognizant and careful than you were in the past.”

Albritton’s Tips

• Moderate your debt.

• Pay off your credit cards—and avoid charging them up again. “That’s probably the best investment you’ll ever make.”

• Retirement savings—401Ks, IRAs, etc.—should be your last-resort funding source because it’s so hard to replace those funds.

• Maintain a cash reserve and build it up. “Have a ready fund that is accessible and that you can use to cover emergencies.”

• Stick to stocks. “You can’t be so afraid that you put all your money in cash or in some relatively low-returning assets and leave it there. You’ll never recover if you do. It takes a pretty serious commitment to get back in the stock market, but that’s certainly where wealth is accrued over time.”

• Confidence and caution make natural bedfellows. “While I’m optimistic about the future, this is a time to be a bit more judicious about expenditures and expansion plans.” fw

For What It’s Worth

After inching up 3.7 percent for the previous 12 months, in October, the U.S. consumer price index (CPI)—a cost-of-living yardstick—posted a 1 percent drop, according to the Labor Department. It was the biggest one-month dive on records dating back to February 1947. Drop notwithstanding, the cost of living really didn’t rise all that much in ’08, UNT’s Conover says. “It never does in any one year.” Bear in mind, though, that the CPI is just a general illustration of representative consumers and doesn’t account for individual nuances. “Retirees, for example, have different weights in their component costs of living than students. Consumer durables and staples would be very high in a young family’s life. The CPI uses the same weights for every person, so the overall CPI is not [a good indicator] for any one person—it’s just good as an average.”

local entrepreneurial genius goes on to create socially responsible shoes

A MILE IN HIS SHOES

by Jennifer Casseday-Blair

The formula is simple—one for one. For every pair of shoes sold, a pair is given away to a child in need. Blake Mycoskie, Arlington native and founder of TOMS Shoes, shares the company’s philosophy: “TOMS is 100 percent about the charity. The profit we make is meant to sustain the charitable act.” With such an unconventional business model, the rapid success of TOMS has caught worldwide attention. Yet Mycoskie remains grounded; learning from both his successes and failures, he hopes to permanently change selfserving views about business.

SOLE SEARCHING

Mycoskie remains close with his family and returns to his home in Arlington several times a year to visit. When asked who has been the greatest mentor in his life, he answers, his father. “My dad leads a very joyful and balanced life,” Blake revealed. “He has been married to my mother for almost 40 years and has many great friends.” His father, Mike Mycoskie, remembers seeing early signs of his son’s business-minded nature. “Blake was always extremely selfmotivated,” Mike said. “When he was still in grade school, he would visit his grandmother who lived on a golf course in Granbury. Blake asked his grandmother to bake cookies so that he could set up a stand and sell them to the golfers.” Mycoskie’s parents believe that their son will become an icon for social responsibility in business.

After studying philosophy and finance at Southern Methodist University, Mycoskie’s entrepreneurial journey began locally with a college laundromat, EZ Laundry. This endeavor allowed him to experiment with several out-of-the-box mar-

years spent barefoot in silica-rich soil often results in disease

keting strategies. Mycoskie visited the campus sorority houses asking the girls to wear company branded T-shirts in exchange for free dry cleaning. He and a friend would also pretend to deliver laundry to all the dorms, creating the perception that several students were using the service already. Before long, the business had expanded to seven university campuses across the Southwest with 40 employees and 8 trucks.

Several business ventures followed, most of them successful. In 2001, Mycoskie Media was launched and soon had advertisements consuming the walls of office buildings in Dallas. Taking an offer he couldn’t refuse, Mycoskie quickly sold his advertising company to Clear Channel. Next, after competing in multiple reality television shows, including CBS’ Amazing Race and Fox’s Sexiest Bachelor in America, Mycoskie came up with the idea for a 24/7 reality television channel called Reality Central. Media titan Rupert Murdoch had a similar idea. Realizing that he could not compete, Mycoskie accepted defeat. However, over the next few years, he

kept busy being the spokesperson for an online poker company, GreenTiePoker, serving as the president of Phil Hellmuth Productions and starting Driver’s Ed Direct, an online driver’s school.

Knowing that there was more to business than success and wealth, Mycoskie has gone on to incorporate philanthropy into his business model. “I always knew that I wanted to give back; but with the businesses I started before, I just couldn’t find the right fit. I had my Eureka moment when I met the children of Argentina, and I wanted to be able to provide for them. I don’t want to be remembered for what I did, but for what I gave away.”

THE RIGHT FIT

A desire to play polo triggered the three-week vacation to Argentina in 2006, where Mycoskie became deeply troubled by the country’s poverty and health issues, as well as the number of village children without shoes. At the same time, Mycoskie had become familiar with the alpargata, a traditional rope-soled espadrille worn for hundreds of years by local farmers. The lightweight slipon shoe has also become popular among polo players. His alpargata discovery and concern for the shoeless children led to the creation of TOMS, a name derived from Shoes for Tomorrow.

Mycoskie’s original thought was to begin a nonprofit organization that would raise money for the shoes. Realizing that this method would allow giving only as long as his efforts continued, he decided to create something that was sustainable. With no background in charity, Mycoskie decided to create a for-profit business which would

shoes

allow the children to attend school, which families had not been able to afford

sustain the charitable act of giving away half of its inventory to children in need. The next few months were spent meeting with shoe and fabric makers, and in June 2006, TOMS debuted a collection of 15 brightly colored styles fashioned after the alpargata. A few changes were made from the original alpargata design to make a sturdier product. The rope sole was replaced with rubber, leather insoles were added and the toe and heel were reinforced.

Children’s lives have already been deeply impacted by the shoes given away. Walking many miles daily, the barefoot children would get cuts and

scrapes leading to serious infections. Hookworm was another major concern before the shoes were donated. TOMS’ recent focus has been to prevent a soil transmitted disease found in Ethiopia called Podoconiosis, which affects over 1 million people. Years spent barefoot in silica-rich soil often results in this disease, causing disfiguring swelling in the feet and legs. The only known prevention for this disease is wearing shoes from an early age. In addition to the health benefits, shoes allow the children to attend school, as shoes are part of the required uniform. Many of the families had not been able to afford the shoes necessary for school.

Currently based out of Santa Monica, Calif., TOMS has 45 employees and has shoes being manufactured in Argentina, China and Ethiopia. Growing rapidly and gaining worldwide recognition, TOMS shoes have appeared on the pages of Vogue and GQ, as well as on the feet of such celebrities as Kiera Knightley, Sienna Miller, Cameron Diaz and Scarlett Johansson. Mycoskie shares the secret of TOMS’ rapid success: “People like wearing our shoes and having a story to tell their friends.” TOMS takes the money they would have spent on formal advertising and instead uses it to give shoes to thousands of children, which in turn draws the needed publicity to succeed.

Mycoskie has employed other inventive marketing strategies for TOMS. In 2007, he spent three months traveling all over the United States in an Airstream thanking supporters and spreading awareness about the cause behind the shoes. He also advertises using the sails of his 45-foot bedroom cruiser, where he currently resides when not trav-

more than 300,000 pairs will be given away in 2009

Entrepreneurial Timeline

eling. The TOMS logo, fashioned after the Argentina flag, adorns the sails and acts like a giant billboard floating down the coast.

So far more than 100,000 shoes have been given away, and based on current sales, more than 300,000 pairs will be given away in 2009. Shoes are sent to Ethiopia, Argentina, South Africa and soon Haiti. TOMS just completed their first shoe drop in the U.S., where Gulfport, Miss., received 3,500 shoes.

To determine who receives the shoes, TOMS has a team of people who examine the severity of need and determine if there is a reliable third-party system in place to ensure sustainability. Once the location is selected, a team of 10-25 volunteers and employees travels to several schools/communities each day until no child’s feet are left bare. When the team arrives, they have the children line up to determine their sizes and fit the shoes on their feet. Mycoskie shares his most memorable shoe drop experience: “After three boys received their shoes, they led me to a field where they loved to play soccer. It was full of rocks and glass, yet they had been playing soccer barefooted. Once they received their shoes, their first thought was that now playing soccer would be easier. Later that afternoon, I played a game of soccer with them.”

STEPPING UP

Jonathan Jung, whose title at TOMS is “shoe dude,” started as an intern with TOMS and was the first full-time employee. Jung shares just a few design ideas for TOMS shoes: “There are many new styles including the wrap boot. The inspiration behind the design came to Blake as he was watching grooms wrap the

the primary goal is not to make the biggest profit but to help the most people

legs of polo ponies. The design is so versatile. It is all one piece and you wrap yourself.” For spring, TOMS also plans on incorporating a rope sole for a more traditional look.

In addition to being able to buy shoes online, many local stores carry TOMS, including Spoiled Pink, Shoe Gypsy, Dean-Kingston and Whole Foods. Buying a pair of TOMS shoes is not the only way to show support. The company’s Web site, tomsshoes.com, accepts volunteer applications for future shoe drops. On the Web site, you can book a Style Your Sole party. Increasingly popular, these parties allow supporters to design their own pairs of TOMS with friends and family.

Mycoskie remains very involved in the public aspect of the business. While he is still the creative force behind TOMS and participates in all shoe drops, Mycoskie devotes a great deal of time speaking to large church, school and business groups about incorporating philanthropy into their business models. He also aspires for TOMS to be much more than a shoe company. “I want to take this one-for-one model and expand it to other avenues. Clean drinking water is one idea I have. Different people around the world have different needs.” More than anything, Mycoskie wants to make a drastic change in the way people view business. He wants to prove to businesses that you can be charitable and still make a profit. TOMS Shoes is a company built on a passion to give, and the primary goal is not to make the biggest profit but to help the most people. The tagline for TOMS says it best: “Disclaimer: You will not win the rat race wearing TOMS.” fw

February 28, 2009 Fort Worth Convention Center Arena

Join us as the Fort Worth Convention Center Arena is transformed into an eco-friendly, groovin’ environment for the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History’s fifth annual Mad Scientist Ball.

For more information call 817-255-9404 or go to fortworthmuseum.org to reserve your table today!

Benefiting the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History fortworthmuseum.org • 817-255-9404

port·folio

» insurance and financial planning professionals worth knowing

Planning your financial future can seem to be an overwhelming task, unless you employ the expertise of trained professionals. To help in your search for the right counselor, some area practitioners want to tell you more about themselves, their proficiencies in the areas of insurance and financial planning, and how working with them will contribute to peace of mind for your financial future.

Michael Dallas, CFP®

CONCENTRATION: “I make retirement dreams come true for retirees and soon-to-be retirees.” EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS: B.B.A., University of Texas at Arlington. Certified Financial Planner Certificant (CFP®). AWARDS/ HONORS: Graduated Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 GPA from University of Texas at Arlington. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: “One of my best works is my book, ‘The Courage to Retire: The Must-Have Money Book for People Over 55.’ The book gives retirees and soon-to-be retirees the big picture on how to create a worry-free retirement. Countless people have told me that my book gave them the confidence and inspiration they needed to step into their best years.” INVESTMENT PHILOSOPHY: “Investments are simply the vehicles that take us to where we want to go. An investment portfolio should be chosen only after we have

examined our unique situation and have defined our hopes for retirement.” HIS APPROACH TO FINANCIAL PLANNING: “My approach is deeper and more creative than simply giving standard financial advice. I help people create a prudent path to making their retirement aspirations a reality.”

WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE HIM: “By specializing in the unique needs of retirees and soon-to-be retirees, I provide unparalleled help and advice in making retirement dreams come true.”

FREE ADVICE: “Time is far more valuable than money. Retire as soon as you can.” CONTACT INFORMATION: 6138 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76116. 817.763.8191. WEB SITE: CourageToRetire.com.

First Command Financial Services

CONCENTRATION: First Command Financial Services, through its subsidiary First Command Financial Planning, Inc. (Member SIPC), addresses the challenges and opportunities of middle-class Americans by developing and delivering comprehensive financial plans to assist individuals and families in their efforts to reduce debt, build wealth and pursue their lifetime financial goals and dreams. We advocate a disciplined, long-term approach to saving and investing, supported by strategies to manage financial risk. And we support our clients’ pursuit of their goals with a wide range of products and services, including investments through First Command Financial Planning, insurance through First Command Financial Services and banking through First Command Bank.

EDUCATION: First Command boasts a well-educated and welltrained Advisor force. As a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), all First Command Advisors hold the Series 65 license. Many of our Advisors also hold or are pursuing other certifications, including Certified Financial Planner™*. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: First Command and many of our Financial Advisors are members of the Financial Planning Association. Our Financial Advisors also belong to many professional organizations, both local and national. INVESTMENT PHILOSOPHY: We focus on consumer behavior as the first and most powerful determinant of results. Our Financial Advisors fill the role of a lifetime coach, helping clients through the various stages of their lives as

they pursue their goals and dreams. The financial plan is the product that makes the biggest difference for our clients. The real value of working with a Financial Advisor is in the thoughtful construction and delivery of a customized plan that integrates products and advice tailored to clients’ needs as they progress on their financial journey. The philosophy is both simple and powerful: Build and maintain a financial plan custom-fitted to client values, client goals and the lifestyle they envision. free a DVICe: Pay yourself first. Char I ta BL e wor K/In Vo LV e Ment: First Command and its employees support the United Way of Metropolitan Tarrant County. First Command’s Package Brigade is an employee-run program that supports troops overseas by assembling and distributing

care packages on holidays. First Command is a corporate partner of the annual Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl played in Fort Worth. PIC ture D: (left to right) David White, Mike Morrison, Hal Langley, Vanessa Blackmon, Marty Durbin, Eric Schuster, Scott Spiker, Bob Kerr, John Quinones, Hugh Simpson. ContaC t Infor M at Ion: 1 FirstComm Plaza, Fort Worth, Texas 761094999. 817.731.8621 x2303. e-M a IL: info@firstcommand.com. we B sI te: firstcommand.com.

*Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP, Certified Financial Planner™ and CFP in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

State Farm Insurance

CONCENTRATION: State Farm offers a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto, fire, life, health and investments. Additionally, State Farm Bank offers consumer and commercial loans, deposit products and credit cards. All of these products are available through registered State Farm agents. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: State Farm has been the nation’s largest insurer of cars and homes for more than 40 years. In fact, State Farm insures more cars and homes than the next three companies combined. State Farm Bank is one of the fastest-growing banks in the country and is in the top 1 percent of banks nationally. WHY SOMEONE SHOULD CHOOSE THEM: State Farm is in the business of helping clients manage

the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. State Farm agents offer clients one-stop shopping for personal and commercial insurance, investments and banking products. CHARITABLE WORK: The State Farm Companies Foundation is one of the largest corporate foundations in the U.S. Through their Good Neighbor Citizenship Program, State Farm gave $60 million in 2007 for charitable work and volunteerism. Additionally, State Farm agents and their employees are involved in a wide variety of community and charitable organizations.

AGENTS PICTURED: (Back, left to right) Marty, Jerry, Jason, Vince, Matt and Cheryl. (Front) Jacy, Jill, Frankie and Raudel.

Higginbotham & Associates, Inc.

FOCUS: Higginbotham provides a “Single Source” solution to businesses and individuals for securing property/casualty insurance, employee benefits, group retirement plans, executive benefits and life insurance at competitive prices from more than 250 highly-rated carriers. The firm also has in-house resources for risk management, benefit plan administration and specialized industries. CERTIFICATIONS: The firm is led by 31 managing directors, each of whom is highly credentialed and has concentrated experience in his or her discipline. This strategy ensures that customers are served by experts in their respective practice areas. FIRM’S AWARDS/HONORS: In 2008, Higginbotham was ranked among the “Best Companies to Work for in Texas” by Texas Monthly, Texas Association of Business and SHRM Texas

State Council, and the firm was named a “Health Care Hero” by Dallas Business Journal PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS:

Higginbotham continues to climb the ranks of the “100 Largest Brokers of U.S. Business” published by Business Insurance. This year alone, Higginbotham expanded into Houston, Wichita Falls, Henrietta and Granbury. With this steady growth, the firm is poised to fulfill its mission of becoming the “Best in Texas” for insurance and financial services. PICTURED: (Standing, left to right): Managing Directors Mary Russell, Mark Vann, David Weeks, Kevin Grant. (Seated) Michael Parks, Tami Rodgers. CONTACT

INFORMATION: 500 W. 13th St., Fort Worth, Texas 76102. 817.336.2377, Fax 817.347.7094. E-MAIL: fortworth@higginbotham.net. WEB SITE: Higginbotham.net.

SPECTRA Asset Conservation Specialist, LTD.

[Charles D. Booth, LUTCF, RFC]

FOCUS: My focus is to educate people about the programs that are available, give them the opportunity to evaluate those programs, and assist them in making a decision about their financial needs. EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS: LUTCF, Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow; RFC, Registered Financial Consultant. AWARDS/HONORS : MDRT-TOT, The prestigious Million Dollar Round Table—Top of the Table honor; TLRT, Texas Leaders Roundtable; Grand Council, recognized as being in the top 1 percent of financial advisors in America.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: NAIFA, National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors; NAIFA Texas; NAIFA Fort Worth, president-elect of the Fort Worth Chapter.

GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Building a client-centered practice that is one of the top financial consul-

tant offices in Fort Worth. INVESTMENT PHILOSOPHY: Asset Conservation. I believe people who work all of their lives, retire and want to enjoy life should not be in programs that can go backward. BIGGEST ERROR PEOPLE MAKE IN FINANCIALLY PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE: Using retirement money to chase hot deals to “make it” overnight. Most of them are not that way before retirement, so why after?

ADVICE: I tell all of my clients to “redefine principal” when in retirement. After you stop working, your definition of principal should change. To date, no one has disagreed. CONTACT INFORMATION: 4500 Mercantile Plaza Dr., Ste. 101, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. 817.222.2122, Fax 817.222.3122.

E-MAIL: charles@assetconservation.com.

WEB SITE: assetconservation.com.

Behind the Scenes

Sleep is overrated.

When I was asked to become the morning news anchor at CBS 11 last summer, I was thrilled—not just for professional reasons, but more on that later. Whenever I meet people who know what I do for a living, the first question they ask me is, “What time do you get up?” So, in order to answer that question and more, here’s how my day usually goes:

1:55 a.m. … The first beep starts out softly. I suppose it was designed that way as to not scare you out of your sleep. And it works because it is pure irritation that slowly and painfully tugs me out of the REM phase of my sleep. The annoying interruption barks louder and louder until I am awake enough to SMACK it! The alarm has sounded. The time has come. And I ask myself the same question every morning, “Why do I do this?”

2-2:45 a.m. … I’m quickly in and out of the shower. My natural curly, short hair must be washed, dried and flat ironed every morning!

3 a.m. … Heat a cup of hot tea, pack my snacks (yogurt with berries, grapes, apple, cheese, fat-free Saltines) and head out the door.

3:50-5 a.m. … Read two hours of show copy, do my make-up, grab another cup of tea and head to the set.

5-9 a.m. … Anchor the CBS 11 News this Morning, as well as morning cut-ins during the CBS

by Ginger Allen, anchor for CBS 11 News This Morning

Early Show —and drink more hot tea!

9 a.m.-1 p.m. … Write, log, research and shoot special projects, work on e-mails and “inhouse” business, and if I can leave early, squeeze in a workout.

1:30-2:30 p.m. … Rush home to pick up my son from school.

2:30-5:30 p.m. … Pick up my daughter from day care and head to afternoon sports and/or afterschool activities (squeezing in such errands as going to the grocery store, doctors’ appointments, etc. when I have a chance).

5:30-7:30 p.m. … Help the kids with homework, make them dinner and give them baths. Did I mention the tea? This time, it’s hot herbal tea to wind down.

8 p.m. … My bedtime (on a good night)!

So why do I do this? It’s honestly the perfect job for a working mom, provided you have the support of your family. I live with guilt for being a working mom, but with these hours, half my workday is done by the time my kids start their day. Just last week, I had a 1:45 p.m. teacher’s conference, volunteered in the school library and made the afternoon dance class and soccer game. These are all events I would have missed if I worked a normal schedule. I often say that I am a full-time employee and (almost) a full-time mom!

I also love anchoring our morning newscast. I’m a journalist at heart who has a genuine passion for reporting the news. However, I also like being able to “loosen-up” during

appropriate times, which a morning show format allows you to do. There are three more reasons I appreciate this shift: Scott Sams, Teresa Frosini and Jeff Jamison. We truly are very close friends who enjoy working together. All four of us share the same beliefs, goals and sense of humor, both on and off the air.

So what’s the secret to making it all work? Multi-tasking! I try to make every minute count. When I’m drying my hair in the morning, I have my “mom’s agenda” on the bathroom counter. I’ve put together entire birthday parties at 2:15 a.m.! My drive to work is also a valuable time. Today, I brainstormed this article. On my drive home, I will be on the speakerphone discussing a story with a producer and then calling a friend to discuss our sons’ play date. Sometimes I even have my 6-year-old start his daily reading out loud to me in the car while we’re headed home from school. I even teach my 3-year-old how to count when we wash and slice fruits and vegetables for dinner—grapes work great!

But my secret weapon is truly my husband. He is Mr. Mom. He puts the kids to bed, gets them up and gets them to school. I am blessed— he, too, juggles a crazy schedule but is very involved in the daily routine. I could not work this schedule without his help. We both work, and we both share the duties.

I am also fortunate to have colleagues who I enjoy seeing every morning—long before the sun comes up! And let’s face it, caffeine is my friend. Thank goodness for the hot tea!

The bottom line? Sleep is overrated. There are too many other things to enjoy in life … especially once the sun comes up! fw

fort worth’s social scene

WorthFraming [ [

Hoot lunc H

Neiman Marcus Fort Worth played host to the All Church Home Fall Opening Luncheon where committee members of Hoot ‘n’ Holler enjoyed a fabulous fashion show. Tim Adair, Kara Morey

Peppers and Pinatas Party benefiting the Mental Health Association and celebrating 50 years of incorporation was held at Joe T. Garcia’s. The Operation Healthy Reunions program and the Information and Referral services were the beneficiaries of this year’s first annual Peppers Party.

hoot n holler

Committee members of Hoot ‘n’ Holler gathered at Neiman Marcus Fort Worth for the All Church Home Fall Opening Luncheon and Fashion Show.

In the sPotlIght Supporters of the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History attended the museum’s Light the Lantern Reception.

1 John & Roxy Stevenson, Gretchen

3

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“We can still host dinner parties, attend art exhibits and spend time with family nearby. Plus, we’ll have a great view.” To Blaine and Mary Jo Scheideman, retirement living is making the most of every moment. That’s why they are future residents of The Stayton at Museum Way.

Coming soon to Fort Worth, only The Stayton offers resort-style living in the city’s cultural heart, with the unsurpassed protection of true place the Scheidemans will find services and amenities to rival any city club for a lifestyle that’s more engaging than ever before.

Don’t wait to see the future of retirement living — call today to schedule your personal viewing of our Presentation Gallery.

LegaL Notes

Tarrant County lawyers took the stage at 8.0 Restaurant for the 5th Annual Courthouse Jam, which benefits the children and families of Santa Fe Youth Services.

1 Tim Harvard, Brett McClung, Hunter McLean, Kelley Godby, Gary Linville, Duke Nishimura

2 Brooke & Joe Ulrickson, Joe Gumm

2

RiveR PaR ty

Benefiting Streams & Valleys, runners and walkers alike gathered to participate in Friends of the River’s Party at University Park Village.

1

3

vaLuabLe HistoRy

As part of the Historic Fort Worth Inc.’s Charity Designer Showhouse Lecture Series, representatives from the Winterthur Program in Early American Culture presented lectures at the home of Martha Hyder.

1 Linda Ector, Kathy Sneep, amy Shackelford

2 Holly ross, Suzy Coleman

pHOTOGrapHy By SaNDy TOMLiNSON

olympic success

Guests used their intellectual prowess and artistic talent while competing in the 7th annual Haydn Seek treasure hunt, which benefits the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra’s programs for children.

1 Lea Payne, Anita Paulus, Shannon Nolan, Lisa Fischer, Elizabeth McCoy, Carter Martin.

2 Craig Baird, Quintin Cassady, Carrie Baird, Marcee Henderson, Jill Cassady, Jon Henderson

3 Brian Smith, Jan Evans, Von Evans, Connie Smith, Michael Beckman, Jennifer Beckman

event

Hangman’s House of Horrors celebrated 20 years of business with sponsors and supporters in attendance. A portion of the proceeds benefitted the various charities that Hangman’s supports throughout the year.

1 Melanie Madara, Stephanie Hayes, Chopper, Skip Madara, Eddie Moralez

2 Lisa & Jarrod Farmer

3 Marcos duque, Celeste duque, Wolfman, robbie Cisneros epic performance

Patrons gathered to welcome the Metropolitan Classical Ballet into its fall season as they performed Spartacus & Eight by Adler at the Bass Performance Hall.

1 Alexander Vetrov, Paul Mejiia

2 Susan Ivory, Sharon Nolan

PHotogrAPHy By CANdIS LoW

SILVER WEST

private school Guide

Each year, thousands of Tarrant County parents begin their hunt for the perfect private school. Filling out application after application, setting up interviews and making multiple visits to schools, these diligent and dedicated parents seek an answer to an age-old question: Where will my child excel academically, grow personally and truly enjoy learning?

Whether you’re seeking a private school for a specific teaching methodology or prefer that your child learn in a religious environment at a school that shares your family’s vision, the search can seem daunting. Things can get especially tricky if you are enrolling more than one child into private school—one size doesn’t fit all, and it’s difficult to find just the right match. Extensive research is often required, and critical questions will arise regarding tuition costs, test assessments, personal interviews and the application process, among others. When it comes down to it, choosing a private school for your child is no easy task, to say the least.

In the following pages, you will find a comprehensive list of private schools in Tarrant County. From fine arts academies and faithbased schools, to Montessori academies and schools focused on accelerated learning for the gifted and talented, the 2009 Private School Guide gives parents an in-depth look at each school, including accreditation, student-to-teacher ratio, cost of tuition and teacher requirements. We hope you will find this quick reference to the area’s private schools helpful as you explore the possibilities of your child’s private school education.

private school Guide

Al-Hedayah Academy 8601 Randol Mill Rd. Fort Worth, 76120

817.265.6667, hedayah.com

All Saints Catholic School 2006 N. Houston St. Fort Worth, 76106

817.624.2670 allsaintscatholicschool.org

All Saints’ Episcopal School 9700 Saints Circle Fort Worth, 76108 817.560.5700, asesftw.org

Anderson School for Gifted & Talented & Creative 14900 White Settlement Rd. Fort Worth, 76108

817.448.8484 andersonschool.net

Arlington Faith Academy P.O. Box 170718 Arlington, 76003

817.483.0119 ext. 307

Barbara Gordon Montessori School 1513 Hall-Johnson Rd. Colleyville, 76034

817.354.6670, bgmontessori.org

Bethesda Christian School 4700 N. Beach Fort Worth, 76137

817.281.6446 bethesdachristianschool.org

Burton Adventist Academy 4611 Kelly Elliott Rd. Arlington, 76017

817.572.0081 burtonacademy.org

Calvary Christian Academy 1401 Oakhurst Scenic Dr. Fort Worth, 76111 817.332.3351 calvaryacademy.com

Cassata High School 1400 Hemphill St. Fort Worth, 76104 817.926.1745 cassatahighschool.org

CCC Academy

9055 John T. White Fort Worth, 76120 817.274.9494 thecccacademy.com

Center For Creative Living Elementary 2401 Oakland Blvd., Ste.

Fort Worth, 76103

817.534.2189, cfcl.cc

Children’s Courtyard locations throughout the DFW Metroplex

877.892.4453 ChildrensCourtyard.com

Children’s University 4621 Park Springs Blvd. Arlington, 76017

817.784.6655 childrensuniversity.com

private school Guide

Chisholm Trail Academy

401 S. Old Betsy Rd. Keene, 76059 817.558.4404 ctanet.org

Clariden School

100 Clariden Ranch Rd. Southlake, 76092 682.237.0400 claridenschool.org

Covenant Christian Academy 901 Cheek Sparger Rd. Colleyville, 76034 817.577.3378, ccanet.org

Covenant Classical School

126 N. Judd St. Fort Worth, 76108 817.820.0884 covenantfw.org

Créme De La Créme 6805 Colleyville Blvd. Colleyville, 76034 817.416.3683 cremedelacreme.com

Crown Of Life Lutheran School 6605 Pleasant Run Rd. Colleyville, 76034 817.251.1881 crownoflife.org

Ekklesia Christian School 1200 E. Bessie St. Fort Worth, 76104 817.332.1202 worldmbc.com

Faith Christian School 730 E. Worth Grapevine, 76051 817.442.9144 fcschool.org

Fellowship Christian Academy 1140 Morrison Dr. Fort Worth, 76120

817.457.2345 fcafw.org

Fort Worth Academy

7301 Dutch Branch Rd. Fort Worth, 76132

817.370.1191 fwacademy.org

Fort Worth Adventist Academy

3040 Sycamore School Rd. Fort Worth, 76133

817.370.7177 fwaa.net

Fort Worth Christian School 7517 Bogart Dr. North Richland Hills, 76180

817.281.6504 fwc.org

Fort Worth Country Day School

4200 Country Day Ln.

Fort Worth, 76109

817.732.7718 fwcds.org

College degree required, certification preferred/ must be an active participant in a Christian church

Discover

At Montessori at Sundance Square we provide your child with an education that lasts a lifetime. Our unique Montessori School philosophy is reected in all of our Infant/Toddler, Primary and Elementary programs, and creates an environment where your child is empowered to question, learn and grow.

• Now enrolling children 12 weeks to 6 years and grades 1-3

• Afliated with AMS (American Montessori Society)

• Conveniently located in Sundance Square, the heart of downtown Fort Worth Put your child on the path to lifelong learning. Contact us today to schedule a visit or tour.

Montessori at Sundance Square 201 Jones Street Fort Worth, TX 76102 817-334-0036

www.brighthorizons.com/montessori

private school Guide

Fourth St. School 1401 Caplin Dr. Arlington, 76018

817.275.2314 fourthstreetschool.com

Gateway School 2570 NW Green Oaks Blvd. Arlington, 76012

817.226.6222 gatewayschool.com

Glenview Christian School 4805 NE Loop 820 Fort Worth, 76137

817.281.5155 glenviewchristianschool.org

Grace Prep. Academy 3300 W. I-20 Arlington, 76017 817.557.3399 graceprep.org

Harvest Christian Academy 7200 Denton Hwy. Watauga, 76148 817.485.1660 hcasaints.org

Harvest Christian School 7501 Crowley Rd. Fort Worth, 76134 817.568.1122 harvest-ag.org

Highland Meadow Montessori Academy 1060 E. Highland St. Southlake, 76092 817.488.2138 hmma.org

Highpointe Children’s Academy 711 W. Arbrook Blvd. Arlington, 76015 817.472.9494 highpointeacademy.com

Hill School of Fort Worth 4817 Odessa Ave. Fort Worth, 76133 817.923.9482 hillschool.org

Holy Cross Christian Academy 1233 Tarver Rd. Burleson, 76028 817.295.7232 hccaburleson.com

Holy Family Catholic School 6146 Pershing Fort Worth, 76107

817.737.4201 hfsfw.org

Holy Rosary Catholic School

2015 SW Green Oaks Blvd. Arlington, 76017

817.419.6800 hrcstx.com

Holy Trinity Catholic School 3750 William D. Tate Blvd. Grapevine, 76051

817.421.8000, holytcs.org

private school Guide

Immaculate Conception

Catholic School

2301 N. Bonnie Brae St. Denton, 76207

940.381.1155 catholicschooldenton.org

Jane Justin School

1300 W. Lancaster Fort Worth, 76102

817.390.2831 cscfw.org

Joshua Christian Academy 510 N. Broadway Joshua, 76058

817.295.7377 joshuachristianacademy.org

Lake Country Christian School

8777 Boat Club Rd. Fort Worth, 76179

817.236.8703 ext.132 lccs.org

Liberty Christian School 1301 S. Hwy 377 Argyle, 76226

940.294.2000 libertychristian.com

Lighthouse Christian Academy

7200 Robertson Rd. Fort Worth, 76135

817.237.7641 lighthouse-school.org

Metroplex Chapel Academy

601 East Airport Fwy. Euless, 76039

817.267.1000 metroplexchapelacademy.org

Montessori at Sundance Square

201 Jones St. Fort Worth, 76102

817.334.0036 brighthorizons.com

Montessori Children’s House 3420 Clayton Rd. East Fort Worth, 76116

817.732.0252 mchfw.com

Nazarene Christian Academy 2001 E. Main Crowley, 76036

817.297.7003, fwf.org

2816 Spring Valley Rd. Bedford, 76021

817.267.8100 nbmontessori.com

Nolan Catholic High School

4501 Bridge St. Fort Worth, 76103

817.457.2920 nolancatholichs.org

North Park Christian Academy 7025 Mid-Cities Blvd. North Richland Hills, 76180

817.498.8456 npbcnrh.org

private school Guide

Name

Notre Dame Catholic School 2821 Lansing Wichita Falls, 76309

940.692.6041 notredamecatholic.org

Our Lady of Victory Catholic School

3320 Hemphill Fort Worth, 76110

817.924.5123, olvfw.com

Our Mother of Mercy Catholic School

1007 E. Terrell, Fort Worth 76104 817.923.0058, omom.org

Pantego Christian Academy 2201 W. Park Row Arlington, 76013 Elementary: 2351 Country Club Dr., Mansfield 76063 817.460.3315, pantego.com

Park Row Christian Academy 915 W. Park Row Dr. Arlington, 76013 817.277.1021 parkrowchurch.com

Primrose School of Bedford 3916 Central Dr. Bedford, 76021

817.545.5485 primrosebedford.com

Primrose School of Columbus Trail 5330 Columbus Trail Fort Worth, 76123 817.423.4000 primrosecolumbustrail.com

Primrose School at Eagle Ranch 3125 Eagle Ranch Blvd. Fort Worth, 76179 817.236.6760 primroseeagleranch.com

Primrose School of Hall Johnson 2300 Hall-Johnson Rd. Grapevine, 76051 817.416.0404 myprimroseschool.com/ halljohnson

Primrose School at Heritage 4700 Heritage Trace Pkwy. Keller, 76248, 817.741.5044 primroseheritage.com

Primrose School of Hidden Lakes 1100 Davis Blvd. Southlake, 76092, 817.337.4666 primroseshiddenlakes.com

Primrose School of Keller 905 Bear Creek Pkwy. Keller, 76248

817.337.0717 myprimroseschool.com/keller

Primrose School of Grand Peninsula

2430 N. Grand Peninsula Dr. Grand Prairie, 75054

817.477.0077

primrosegrandpeninsula.com

www.hillschool.org

K ids with dyslexia, adhd and other obstacles to learning thrive at hill s chool. s ince 1973, we’ve inspired these bright, creative students to imagine a future full of promise. the strategies and skills we teach build a ladder to opportunity—and place kids within reach of their dreams.

Grades 1–6, Grapevine campus, 817.310.0876

Grades 2–12, Fort Worth campus, 817.923.9482

private school Guide

Primrose School of Mid-cities

500 Mid-Cities Blvd. Hurst, 76054

817.485.8993

primrosemidcities.com

Primrose School of NE Flower Mound

3939 Morriss Rd. Flower Mound, 75028 972.691.3815

primroseflowermound.com

Primrose School of NE Green Oaks

1900 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd. Arlington, 76006 817.543.2626, primrosenegreenoaks.com

Primrose School of Parkwood Hill

7451 Parkwood Hill Blvd. Fort Worth, 76137 817.281.5322

primroseparkwoodhill.com

Primrose School of Southlake

155 South Kimball Ave. Southlake, 76092

817.421.8087

primrosesouthlake.com

Primrose School of Walnut Creek

2201 Matlock Rd. Mansfield, 76063

817.477.0880

primrosewalnutcreek.com

Primrose School of Wellington

3708 Flower Mound Rd. Flower Mound, 75022

972.691.9595

primrosewellington.com

Redeemer Lutheran School 4513 Williams Rd. Benbrook, 76116

817.560.0032, redeemerfw.org

The Joshua School 4900 Wichita St. Fort Worth, 76119

817.551.1554

Southwest Christian School Elementary: 6801 Dan Danciger Rd. Fort Worth, 76133

817.294.0350 Preparatory 7001 Benbrook Lake Dr. Fort Worth, 76132

817.294.9596 southwestchristian.org

St. Andrew Catholic School

3304 Dryden Fort Worth, 76109

817.924.8917 standrewsch.org

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School

2016 Willis Ln. Keller, 76248

817.431.4845, seascc.org

private school Guide

St. George Catholic School

824 Hudgins Ave. Fort Worth, 76111 817.222.1221 stgeorgecatholic.org

St. Ignatius College Preparatory

8109 Shelton Dr. Fort Worth, 76120 817.801.4801 ignatiusofloyala.org

St. John the Apostle Catholic School 7421 Glenview Dr. North Richland Hills, 76180 817.284.2228, stjs.org

St. Maria Goretti Catholic School 1200 S. Davis Dr. Arlington, 76013 817.275.5081, smgschool.org

St. Paul Lutheran School 1800 West Fwy. Fort Worth, 76102 817.332.2281, stpaulfw.com

St. Paul’s Preparatory Academy 6900 U.S. Hwy. 287 Arlington, 76001 817.561.3500, stpaulsprep.com

St. Peter the Apostle Catholic School 1201 S. Cherry Ln. Fort Worth, 76108 817.246.2032 stpetercatholicschool.org

St. Peter’s Classical School 7601 Bellaire Dr. S. Fort Worth, 76132 817.294.0124 stpetersclassical.org

St. Rita Catholic School 712 Weiler Blvd. Fort Worth, 76112 817.451.9383 saintritaschool.net

St. Vincent’s Episcopal School 1300 Forest Ridge Dr. Bedford, 76022

817.354.7979 sves.org

Tate Springs Christian School 4001 Little Rd. Arlington, 76016 817.478.7091

Temple Christian School 6824 Randol Mill Rd. Fort Worth, 76120

817.457.0770, tcseagles.org

Temple Christian West Campus

1250 Jim Wright Fwy. Fort Worth, 76108

817.244.1136, tcseagles.org

The Flint Academy 2111 Roosevelt Ave. Arlington, 76103

817.277.0620 flintacademy.com

private school Guide

The Key School

3947 E. Loop 820 South Fort Worth, 76119 817.446.3738 keyschoolfortworth.org

The Montessori Academy of Arlington 3428 W. Arkansas Ln. Arlington, 76016 817.274.1548 tmaonline.org

The Oakridge School 5900 W. Pioneer Pkwy. Arlington, 76013 817.451.4994 theoakridgeschool.org

Trinity Baptist Temple Academy 6045 WJ Boaz Rd. Fort Worth, 76179 817.237.4255 tbta.tbtchurch.org

Trinity Christian Academy

4954 E. I-20 Service

Willow Park, 76087 817.441.7901 tcaeagles.org

Trinity Valley School

7500 Dutch Branch Rd. Fort Worth, 76132

817.321.0100 trinityvalleyschool.org

Walnut Creek

Private School

1751 North Walnut Creek Dr. Mansfield, 76063

817.473.4406 wcps-mansfield.org

West Academy 3825 McCart Ave. Fort Worth, 76110 817.924.3535 westacademyfortworth.com

n OTES: Information provided by representatives of each school. Schools included offer grades beyond kindergarten. KEY: ACCS: Association of Classical Christian Schools; ACSI: Association of Christian Schools International; ACST: Association of Christian Schools of Texas; AMI: Association of Montessori International; AMS: American Montessori Society CITA: Commission on International and Transregional Accreditation; ICAA: International Christian Accrediting Association; IMS: International Montessori Society; ISAS: Independent School Association of the Southwest; n AIS: n ational Association of Independent Schools; n APCIS: n ational Association of Private Catholic Independent Schools; n CACS: n orth Central Association of Colleges and Schools n CSA: n ational Christian Schools Association of America; n LSA: n ational Lutheran School Association n PSAA: n ational Private School Accreditation Alliance; SACS: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

SAES: Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools; TAAPS: Texas Alliance of Accredited Private Schools

TAPPS: Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools; TCCED: Texas Catholic Conference Education Department; TEA: Texas Education Agency; TPSAC: Texas Private School Accreditation Commission

college and university guide

Abilene

Arlington Baptist College Arlington • 817.461.8741 abconline.edu

Hardin-Simmons University

Abilene • 800.464.7889 hsutx.edu

Houston Baptist University Houston • 281.649.3000 hbu.edu

LeTourneau

It’s been said that with college comes some of the best years of your life. But beyond the social life, football and basketball games, and sororities and fraternities, choosing the right college or university can be one of the most important decisions you will make. Whether you are looking for a private university with faith-based programs or a Division I school, a college education can broaden your horizons, prepare you for success in the working world and teach you life lessons along the way.

In the following pages, you will find an extensive list of private and public colleges, universities and graduate programs in Texas. From tuition rates and enrollment, to application fees and room and board, these guides can get you started on the right path in your pursuit for higher education.

AHEAD OF THE CURVE

Studying around the world

Schreiner

St. Edward’s University Austin • 512.448.8400 stedwards.edu

St. Mary’s University San Antonio • 800.367.7868 stmarytx.edu

Stephen F. Austin University Nacogdoches • 936.468.2504 sfasu.edu

Tarleton State University Stephenville • 254.968.9107 tarleton.edu

Tarrant County College Fort Worth, Arlington, Hurst 817.515.8223 • tccd.edu

Texas Christian University Fort Worth • 817.257.7000 tcu.edu

Texas A&M University College Station • 979.845.3211 tamu.edu

Texas Lutheran University Seguin • 830.372.8000 tlu.edu

Texas Southern University Houston • 713.313.7071 em.tsu.edu

Texas State University – San Marcos San Marcos • 512.245.2111 txstate.edu

Texas Tech University Lubbock • 806.742.2011 ttu.edu

Texas Wesleyan University Fort Worth • 817.531.4444 txwes.edu

Texas Woman’s University Denton • 940.898.2000 twu.edu

The College of Saint Thomas More Fort Worth • 817.923.8459 cstm.edu

colleGe and university Guide

Graduate proGram Guide

$596

26 programs offered

$225 MA, counseling, development; MBA, management, general business, strategic leadership; MS, family studies, human relations and business, human resources, managerial science

$450 $6,660 - $7,434 20 master’s degree programs offered

$986 $2,984 76 master’s and 5 doctoral degrees offered

$465

$590 About $2,492-$2,688 18 graduate programs offered Varies by program Varies by plan MACC; MACCT; MAP; MATS; MBA; MEd; MLA; MS-HRM; MS-MGMT

$675 $3,410-$6,040 Graduate programs offered in accounting, administration, biology, business, communications, education, mathematics, science, nursing, nutrition, kinesiology, sports management and religious studies.

None MBA; MAFM; MHRM; MISM; MINCM; MPM; MPA

$390 $6,290 46 master’s degrees offered

$551 $7,500 MBA; master’s of education

$192 $5,480 26 master’s level programs

$772 doctoral/$665 grad

$1,504-$2,248 plus board 48 master’s and 2 doctoral degrees offered

$183 $8,500 Master’s degrees in education, engineering, natural sciences, nursing, social sciences, agriculture, business, juvinille justice and psychology, architecture and human sciences

$1,665 Varies Comprehensive research and professional graduate degree programs offered by 11 departments

Varies Included in tuition and fees Master’s degrees offered through colleges of arts and sciences, business administration, criminal justice, education, humanities and social sciences

$1,196 Varies 71 graduate programs offered

$173 (Ft. Worth); $250 (off-campus) Varies Degree programs offered by the Schools of Theology, Evangelism and Missions, Educational Ministries and Church Music

Varies MA offered in counseling, student development, human services, teaching, liberal arts; MBA; MS offered in organizational leadership & ethics, computer information systems and project management

$667 varies 24 master’s degree programs

Varies Varies 45 degrees and programs offered

$266 $3,095 27 graduate degrees offered

$158.50 $2,864-$6,189

MA/MS programs offered in agriculture and human sciences, business administration, education, liberal and fine arts, science and technology

$980 Varies Theology, business, communication, education, fine arts, health and human studies, humanities and human sciences, liberal arts, science and engineering

$705 Varies Interdisciplinary, agriculture, life sciences, architecture, business, education, human development, engineering, liberal arts, science, veterinary, government, public service and geosciences

Varies $5,878 Programs offered in the colleges of applied arts, business, education, fine arts and communication, health professions, liberal arts, science and interdisciplinary studies

Varies Varies 103 master’s programs offered/59 doctoral programs

$424-$809 $6,768-$7,368 45 graduate programs

$198

$2,216-$5,316 plus board 66 master’s and 23 doctoral degrees offered

Block rate $5,013-$7,923 74 master’s and 33 doctoral degrees offered

$630 Master’s programs in American studies, art, English, humanities, philosophy, politics, psychology, politics and business

$600 Master’s; $655 Doctoral

$5,350-$5,810 161 graduate degree programs and 44 graduate academic certificate programs

$473 $3,332-$7,698 104 master’s and 49 doctoral degrees offered

Varies Not offered Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences, Doctor of Public Health, Master of Physician Assistant Studies, Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences, Master of Public Health Dual degrees also offered Varies More than 100 graduate degrees offered

$900 $6,828 50 master’s programs offered

$189-$209 $340-$490/month Masters programs in business, education, engineering, health sciences, interdisciplinary studies, liberal arts, nursing and science

$192 44 master’s and 20 doctoral degrees offered

A Promising Future

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Greater Fort Worth-Arlington chapter is raising funds and awareness for Type-1 diabetes, a disease that is diagnosed to 40 children daily. by Ana Bak

hink about it this way,” said tom bessant, explaining what having diabetes is like. “You wake up and skip breakfast in the morning, and you go about your day. Then you forget to eat lunch. You feel that rotating feeling, finding it hard to focus, but it goes away once you eat something. But for diabetics, it’s like that even if they eat. It’s like they didn’t eat at all.”

When his oldest daughter, Christine, was diagnosed with Type-1 diabetes when she was 2 years old, Bessant got involved with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Prior to Christine’s diagnosis, Bessant said, he knew very little about Type-1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes.

“We did what most parents would do,” Bessant said. “We poured over research on the disease, and that’s when I came across JDRF. The Fort Worth chapter was just starting. They used to be part of the Dallas chapter.”

In order for a chapter to become independent, Bessant said, it has to be able to prove that it can run on its own. The Greater Fort Worth-Arlington chapter started around 2001, and after serving a six-year term as president of the chapter, Bessant stepped down in June.

As president, Bessant’s main involvement was to help raise funds, but he and his wife were given the opportunity to chair last year’s Promise Ball, the Foundation’s gala. He said JDRF is very cautious about its money and that 85 cents of every dollar raised goes to research.

“This chapter has turned into one of the top 15 in the

country,” Bessant said. “We’re raising about $1.5 million from a chapter that didn’t exist 10 years ago.”

The 2009 Promise Ball will be held May 16 at the Hilton Hotel in Fort Worth and feature Mary Wilson of the Supremes. Rachel Donahue, executive director for the Greater Fort Worth-Arlington chapter, said the fundraising event has evolved from an informal barbecue at the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington to a black-tie affair. Having raised the grand sum of $850,000 last year, the chapter hopes to reach the million-dollar mark in 2009, Donahue said, adding that 650 people were in attendance last year and the Foundation is hoping for 700 this year.

“[In attendance,] we have a mix of the business community,” Donahue said. “It’s a social event, so the socialites attend as well as people who are affected by diabetes.”

JDRF was founded in 1970 by parents who had children suffering from Type-1 diabetes. With over 40 children being diagnosed with Type-1 diabetes daily, the JDRF’s mission is to find a cure through research.

Type-1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas, the body’s organ that controls the blood level and produces insulin to make sure nutrition from food is distributed. To stay alive, people with Type-1 diabetes must take multiple insulin injections daily or continually infuse insulin through a pump, and test their blood sugar by pricking their fingers for blood six or more times a day.

Although the blood sugar can be regulated with insulin shots every time a diabetic eats, Bessant explained, diabetes can still have devastating effects. If the blood sugar isn’t monitored at all times, he said, a person can go into a diabetic coma. Therefore, he said, he wakes up in the middle of the night to check Christine’s blood sugar levels in order to prevent a possible coma.

“I go and prick her finger and she just sleeps right through it,” he said.

The Bessant family has another daughter, Sarah, 8, who has not been diagnosed with diabetes, but the same cannot be said for a family near and dear to the Bessants.

“We have a family friend who has three out of four of their kids diagnosed with diabetes,” he said, explaining how there can be times when families have more than one diagnosed with diabetes. “You have to deal with the fact that your child is suffering from a chronic illness.”

Christine is now 10 and is in the fourth grade at Fort Worth Country Day School. “She’s just a kid,” Bessant said, “but she handles it like a real trooper.” fw

You are cordially invited to a disco party, benefitting the Fort Worth Promotion and Development Fund

DATE: Saturday, February 21, 2009

TIME: 7pm

PLACE: Fort Worth Convention Center

Table sponsorships available. To reserve your tickets or for more information, contact Linda Fulmer at 817-451-8740 or email lindafulmer@sbcglobal.net

EVENT CHAIRS Lisa and Matthew K. Rose

HONORARY CHAIRS Rosie and Mike Moncrief

AUCTION CHAIRS Becky and Henry Borbolla, III

VOLUNTEER CHAIRS Molly and Mitch Snyder

There is No Finer Gift than giving our children the chance for a healthy childhood. All funds raised from Jewel Charity Angel donations go directly to benefit the children at Cook Children’s Medical Center. In appreciation, Angels are invited to attend the 55th Annual Jewel Charity Ball, Jewel of the Nile, on January 10, 2009. Eiseman Jewels of Dallas will present fine jewels from some of the world’s most exclusive collections at the Ball and will also host a special party for Angels only on November 20, 2008. Please join us and give the gift of health to our precious gems, the patients at Cook Children’s Medical Center, at one of the following levels:

Fort Worth’s full service

Landscaping& GardenCenter

Guardado Garden Center was opened over four years ago to complement the growing demand from Guardado Landscaping. Since then, the center has grown into one of the largest suppliers of Mexican Talavera Pottery in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. The garden center is know for its unique and vast colors of pottery and plants. Whether it be Italian, Asian or Mexican—you are sure to find it here.

Guardado purchases all of its plants and flowers from reputable nurseries, guaranteeing the best selections in town for your money.

We are locally owned and pride ourselves in serving our community.

We invite you to walk through our garden center and experience a little of our paradise.

by judie byrd

WorthCook ing [ [

Ring in the New Year

[ with Chocolate Snow Balls ]

Julie Black, busy Fort Worth mom and community volunteer, loves to entertain family and friends at her home, which she shares with husband, Jim, and kids, Connor and Kaylee. She says her Chocolate Snow Balls are perfect treats for a fancy New Year’s buffet, as well as any informal get-togethers. They are so easy that Kaylee, 8, can whip them up herself.

Yield: About 42 Snow Balls

1 coconut cake mix, mixed according to package directions 1, 16-ounce tub prepared coconut pecan frosting

directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake cake according to package directions. When done, remove from oven. While still hot, use a fork to crumble the cake. Add tub of frosting and mix well.

2. Use a melon baller to form balls, placing on a wax-paperlined cookie sheet; freeze 30 minutes. Meanwhile, place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave 1 minute. Stir and return to microwave for another minute. Stir until smooth. Place coconut in a wide shallow bowl.

1, 12-ounce package semi-sweet chocolate chips 1, 14-ounce package shredded coconut

3. Dip each cake ball in melted chocolate and then roll in coconut. Allow coated balls to sit at room temperature until chocolate is firm.

*Store in freezer up to 1 month.

Judie Byrd is the founder of The Culinary School of Fort Worth and Super Suppers.

Lone Star Legend: CBS 11/TXA 21

Mercedes-Benz USA Park Place Motorcars

Fort Worth Foreman: American Airlines

The W.B. and Ellen Gordon Stuart - Cancer Trust; JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A., Trustee

Sundance Star:

Fort Worth, Texas Magazine

The Happy Davis Foundation

Cowboy Statesman:

Lamar Advertising of Dallas

XTO Energy, Inc.

Stockyard Sheri :

The Ben E. Keith Foundation

Fort Worth Business Press

Gene and Jerry Jones Family Charities

Miller Distributing of Fort Worth, Inc.

The Ranch Radio Group

Texas Oncology, P.A.

Wagner Petroleum

Westside Wrangler:

Baylor All Saints Medical Center

Harris Methodist Fort Worth Hospital

Reed Plumbing, Inc.

Thompson & Knight, L.L.P.

Trailblazers:

Cash America International, Inc.

Jetta Operating Company, Inc.

Landmark Nurseries, Inc.

Miller Coors

Worth Casualty Company

Wortham Insurance and Risk Management

Honorary Chair, Steve Mauldin Chair, Michele Nitsch

When the Jar-Opener Goes Down

by Shauna Glenn

Everyone, stop what you’re doing. We have a man down. I repeat; we have a man down. It appears that the tallest and strongest one in our house (he can open any jar I give him— yes, he’s that strong) has come down with the dreaded cold. I’m afraid it’s serious. All forward motion has come to a screeching halt. All plans have changed. All schedules canceled. All clocks stopped.

I was awakened in the night by moaning, coughing and blowing, followed by more moaning.

Let me just preface this story by letting all of you know that I had this same cold last weekend and was shown no sympathy whatsoever. In fact, I remember a certain ‘jar-opener’ handing me some Advil and giving me some lip service like “Hang in there. You’ll be OK. It’s just a cold.”

(I love it when Karma’s wicked finger isn’t pointing at me.)

It was 2:30 a.m. when he woke me up. I wanted to punch him in the face. I really did. It’s bad enough when the little ones wake me up—I mean, don’t get me wrong, I want to punch them in the face, too—but now I have this big, grown-up man/child poking me in the arm and moaning, “Shaun. a. Help. Me. Uuhh.”

I had to get some sleep. I knew now what the day had in store for me, and it wasn’t pretty—it required that I be well-rested. So, true to the pill’s promising effects, resident jar-opener fell asleep after an hour of moaning and saying things like, “Have you ever felt this bad? Do you think anyone has ever felt as bad as I do?”

Gee, honey. I doubt it. You are probably the only person who has ever felt this bad.

Around 7 a.m., he woke up again. I knew this because the moaning picked up where it left off a few hours before.

This column chronicles the adventures of a fictionalized character, is intended for comic relief only and should not be perceived as providing advice on parenting or marriage.

I dialed my doctor to see if the husband could come in as a new patient. It wasn’t happening, but they could see him in a week. Well, I wouldn’t need their services in a week (at least I hoped not—one of us might be dead in a week if a certain one of us wasn’t better— and it wouldn’t be me). Why didn’t I call his doctor, you ask? Because jar-openers don’t need doctors. OK (me rolling my eyes)?

So we did what we had to do. We were going to the doc in a box.

I threw back the covers, got up, and turned on the bedside lamp. “What’s wrong?” I asked, trying not to sound too much like a brat. (I’m sure you can appreciate how hard that was for me.)

He rolled toward me and moaned: “I’m sick. I feel terrible. You’ve got to do something. I’ve never felt this bad before.”

I thought, yeah, OK. First, we went through this about a year ago. Back then, you never felt so bad … yada yada. So let’s get our facts straight. I didn’t say that though. I oohed and ahhed and fetched pills, liquids, suppositories, ointments ... you name it. I was like a modern-day Florence freaking’ Nightingale.

*Side note: Do you think the real Florence Nightingale was resentful? I mean, don’t you think she was sick and tired of helping nurse poor people back to health? I bet she secretly hated them.

Anyway, one of the pills I gave him was of the sleeping kind. I didn’t do it for him—I did it for me.

My husband was too sick and too weak to drive (again, me rolling my eyes), so I rearranged my schedule and drove him to the doctor. We were called back to the room and when the doctor came in, she seemed a little puzzled as to why a grown man had his wife in the room with him. She was probably even MORE puzzled as to why I did all the talking. Jaropener lay on the table (moaning) while I explained his symptoms to her. She was busy jotting notes and looking from me to him and then back to me. When she went to examine him, she spoke very loudly and very slowly. Why was she talking to him as if he were a 5-year-old?

Ooohhhhh. She thinks he’s my very “special” husband. I couldn’t help but laugh. That would explain why a grown man needs his wife talking for him during his doctors appointment. I totally got it then. And so, I just played along.

She explained to me, not him, what was going. She gave instructions to me, not him, about the medica -

tion … yada yada. After awhile, she didn’t address him at all. She spoke to me as if we were the only two people in the room. I don’t even think she looked at him again … it was hilarious.

When we left, jar-opener decided to drive. He was nauseated and thought that driving would make him feel better. We pulled up to the pharmacy window; he looked at the stack of papers in his lap, and asked, “What do I do now?

Seriously, I think he might actually be “special.”

“Umm, press that button right there, and tell the nice lady you need to drop off your prescription,” I said, speaking slowly and loudly, enunciating every syllable.

He turned to me and said, “I know why you’re making fun of

me, and it’s not funny.

“Oh trust me—it’s funny,” I said before snorting a laugh.

So he pressed the button ... OK, this could take all day. Basically, he couldn’t do it. He couldn’t drop off a prescription without my involvement. I had to lean over him and talk into the speaker. I had to show him which slip of paper to put into the doo-hickey so that it could be sucked up and delivered inside the store. Yes, I had to do it all. And frankly, I wonder what the heck would happen to him (and the children!) if I were to die—or run away from home.

So, really, everyone better hope I outlive him or something really bad is bound to happen. And that, my friends, ain’t so funny. FW

Shauna Glenn of Fort Worth, mother of four, can be contacted at shaunarglenn@gmail. com. Her first novel, Heaping Spoonful, is in bookstores now.

WorthDoing [ [

Sliding into the New Year

[ at the Gaylord Texan Resort’s ICE! exhibit ]

The Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine has carved a magical winter wonderland with life-size holiday sculptures and scenes for children and the young-at-heart. The 14,000-square-foot indoor exhibit, open through Jan. 3, is comprised of 2 million pounds of ice masterpieces kept at a wintry 9 degrees. Exhibit-goers will enjoy never-before-seen additions including old man winter blowing snow, dazzling colored ornaments, a winter forest with an ice skating pond, a life-size Santa’s lap, a candy land full of tempting treats, and an entertaining animal band. And don’t forget to skate by returning favorites such as the thrilling ice slides, 25-foot angel, icicle canopy and the breathtaking nativity scene.

›› to list an event: Send calendar information to Fort Worth, Texas: The City’s Magazine, c/o Amy Hallford-Turman, editor, 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste. 130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116, or via e-mail to ahallford@fwtexas.com. Special consideration will be given to submissions that include photographs. To meet publishing deadlines, information must be received two months prior to monthly magazine issue.

celebrations & festivals

Boar’s Head & Yule log Festival, Jan. 3-4 >> The well-loved Epiphany delight, the Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival will be re-enacted in our Sanctuary. Performances will be held at 3 and 5 p.m. each day. This will be the 33rd year for the pageant to be presented by UCC as a gift to the community. Be sure to invite family and friends to this celebrative festival – it lasts only one hour and appeals to all ages. University Christian Church, 817.926.6631 X.157.

6tH annual dJango reinHardt Festival, Jan. 23-25 >> Three nights of film, music and French food and ambiance celebrating the life of Gypsy Jazz Guitarist, Django Reinhardt (b. 1910-d.1953). 7 p.m. Arts Fifth Avenue, 817.923.9500.

museums

Polar exPress, tHrougH Jan. 2 >> All aboard! Family classic ‘The Polar Express’ returns to the Fort Worth on the giant IMAX screen, starting a six-week holiday-season film run that will include weekend family-friendly holiday activities. Omni Theater, 817.255.9540.

HuBBard/BircHler: no room to answer, tHrougH Jan. 4 >> Teresa Hubbard and Alexander Birchler, this Swiss/

American artist duo, have become known for their picturesque, color-saturated photographic series and their deliberately slowpaced video installations, which feature slow pan shots, endless loops, and puzzling plot lines. The Modern Art Museum, 817.738.9215.

sentimental JourneY: tHe art oF alFred JacoB miller, tHrougH Jan. 11 >> Alfred Jacob Miller was the first American artist to journey into the heart of the Rocky Mountains. See his first-hand depictions of the Lakota, Shoshone, and Nez Perces he encountered, and meet the last of the true fur trappers and traders of the 19th century American West. Amon Carter Museum, 817.738.1933.

a nativitY From naPles: PresePio sculPture in tHe 18tH centurY, tHrougH Jan. 25 >> This Christmas season, the Kimbell plays host to an extraordinary loan from Naples, Italy: a magnificent, 18th-century Neapolitan Nativity scene— known in Italian as a presepio after the Latin word for “manger,” praesepe. The Kimbell presepio will feature over 70 figures and animals (ranging up to about 15 inches tall) and will be displayed in the traditional manner with a realistic, rocky setting. Kimbell Art Museum, 817.332.8451.

ranJani sHettar, tHrougH FeB. 8 >> Ranjani Shettar makes sculptural installations that combine industrial and handmade materials. The artist is best known for her stunning suspended works, such as the one that recently won wide acclaim in this year’s 55th Carnegie International titled Just a Bit

More, 2006, made of delicate webs of beeswax that hung from the gallery ceiling. The Modern Art Museum, 817.738.9215.

marY lucier: tHe Plains oF sweet regret, tHrougH FeB. 15 >> Enter a hauntingly beautiful world of landscape and loss in a video installation that brings into view, through music and imagery, the rapid depopulation of the northern plains. Laced with both melancholy and loveliness, this work by video artist Mary Lucier examines the seismic changes that have swept away family farms and ranches, small towns and rural schools. Amon Carter Museum, 817.738.1933.

an american original: george Bellows, tHrougH FeB. 15 >> Experience the fascinating and diverse lithographs of famed American painter and printmaker George Bellows (1882-1925) in this special exhibition from the Carter’s permanent collection. Amon Carter Museum, 817.738.1933. reconstructing tHe renaissance: Five Paintings From an altarPiece, tHrougH FeB. 15 >> In this focus exhibition, the Kimbell reunites the Museum’s great Fra Angelico painting with the ensemble to which it originally belonged. The other four paintings in the group come to us from collections in New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Florence. Kimbell Art Museum, 817.332.8451.

sentimental JourneY: tHe art oF alFred JacoB miller, tHrougH aPril 19 >> Embark on a captivating adventure in this special exhibition of paintings and drawings by Alfred Jacob Miller (1810-

1874), the first American artist to journey into the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Amon Carter Museum, 817.738.1933.

The ColleCTions and Then some, Through may ’09 >>After a lively summer and fall of dynamic temporary exhibitions, the Museum will focus on The Collection and Then Some this winter and spring. The exhibit will include nearly 100 works, including old favorites and works from storage that have not been seen in some time. The exhibit will open in two stages: the first floor opened Nov. 7 and the second floor will open on Jan. 25. The Modern Art Museum, 817.738.9215.

afTer hours aT The Kimbell, seCond saTurday of The monTh, yearround >> Join other art and music lovers to listen to music, enjoy and exhibition tour and sip cocktails. Kimbell Art Museum, 817.332.8451.

firsT fridays aT The modern, yearround >> The first Friday of each month, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth and Café Modern team up to bring you live music and cocktails from 5 to 8 p.m. Docent-led, spotlight tours of the galleries at 6:30 p.m. Modern Art Museum, 817.738.9215.

family free fridays: naTional Cowgirl museum and hall of fame, lasT friday of The monTh, year-round >> Check out the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History for free. 817.255.9300.

ConneCT To arT, year-round

>> Presented by Amon Carter Museum, Connect to Art is a free, multiple-visit program for groups of adults with cognitive disabilities and their families and/or caregivers. Amon Carter Museum, 817.738.1933.

sid riChardson museum, yearround >> Through their collections, oilmen like Sid Richardson, Amon Carter, Thomas Gilcrease, Frank Phillips and R.W. Norton established a link to the romantic legends of the Old West. Sid Richardson Museum, 817.332.6554.

Texas Civil war museum, yearround >> The Texas Civil War Museum is a nonprofit museum started by Texas oil and gas businessman Ray Richey. The museum features several permanent exhibits focusing on Civil War history and memorabilia. Texas Civil War Museum, 817.246.2323.

Texas Cowboy hall of fame, yearround >> The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame honors Texas men and women who have excelled in the sports of rodeo and cutting. Each booth contains photographs and memorabilia, and many of the booths also have video. Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, 817.626.7131.

music

billy bob’s Texas >> Billy Bob’s Texas, 817.624.7117.

Jan. 1 >> Rich O’Toole

Jan.2 >> No Justice

Jan. 3 >> Charlie Robison

Jan. 9 >> Emory Quinn

Jan. 10 >> Josh Gracin

Jan. 16 >> Micky and the Motorcars

Jan. 17 >> Tracy Lawrence

Jan. 23 >> Johnny Cooper

Jan. 24 >> Neal McCoy

Jan. 30 >> Casey Donahew Band

Johnny maThis, Through Jan. 6 >> Grammy Hall of Famer and Lifetime Achievement Award winner Johnny Mathis has been crooning for well over 50 years, hitting the Billboard charts more than 60 times, most recently in 2006 with two albums. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4280. brahms Third symphony, Through Jan. 11 >> This all-orchestra program, presented by Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, begins with Brahms Third Symphony, universally adored and critically acclaimed as a masterpiece of perfection. Bass Performance Hall, 817.665.6000.

sally sTruThers in nunsense: The 25Th anniversary Tour, Jan. 15 >> “Nunsense,” the hit music comedy, celebrates its 25th anniversary with this special

national tour starring two-time Emmy Award winner Sally Struthers. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4280.

el riTmo de la vida, Jan. 16-18 >> Doc Severinsen, best known as bandleader of The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, brings El Ritmo de la Vida (The Rhythm of Life) to the symphony circuit, along with classical guitarist Gil Gutierrez and violinist Pedro Cartas. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4280.

yundi li, Jan. 20 >> Cliburn at the Bass presents Yundi Li, who, at the age of 18, became the youngest participant and the first Chinese citizen to be awarded first prize at the Chopin International Piano Competition in Warsaw. Bass Performance Hall, 800.462.7979.

Kenny rogers, Jan. 24 >> Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra present Kenny Rogers, who, for more than four decades, has produced memorable songs that have topped the charts, drawing fans among rock, pop, soul and country audiences. Bass Performance Hall, 817.665.6000.

Chris boTTi, Jan. 25 >> Trumpeter Chris Botti walks a fine line between the bebop of traditional jazz, offering his fans the best of both worlds. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4280.

pilobolus, Jan. 26 >> According to the NYC Newsday, Pilobolus is a mind-blowing troupe of wildly creative and physically daring dancers who leap, fly, intertwine and break all the rules ... audiences should expect the unexpected. Bass Performance Hall 817.212.4280.

all beeThoven, Jan. 30—feb. 1 >> Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra’s tribute to Beethoven features pianist Ang Li performing the lyrical Fourth Piano Concerto, famous for its poetic opening. Bass Performance Hall, 817.665.6000.

comedy

laughTer and refleCTion wiTh Carol burneTT, Jan. 12 >> Come with your questions and enjoy this evening of laughter and reflection with one of the country’s most loved and respected performers. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4280.

four day weeKend, friday and saTurday, year-round >> The popular improvisational comedy troupe performs skits and songs based on audience suggestions. Four Day Weekend Theater, 817.226.4DAY.

stage

almosT, maine, Jan. 16—feb. 8 >> As the northern lights hover over the mythical town of Almost, Maine, the residents find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and amusing ways in this whimsical winter comedy about the joys and perils of romance. Thur.-Sun. Theater Arlington, 817.275.7661.

The bluesT eye, Jan. 30— f eb. 22 >> Lydia R. Diamond’s adaptation of Morrison’s 1970 novel about a young black girl in 1940’s Ohio, this version

was commissioned by Chicago’s famed Steppenwolf Theatre Company, where it premiered in 2005. Jubilee Theatre, 817.338.4411.

Sport S

TCU Men’s BaskeTBall

Jan. 3 >> vs. Colorado State, 7 p.m.

Jan. 10 >> vs. UNLV, 4:30 p.m.

Jan. 21>> vs. Wyoming, 7 p.m.

Jan. 24>> vs. New Mexico, 7 p.m.

TCU WoMen’s BaskeTBall

Jan. 13 >> vs. BYU, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 17 >> vs. Air Force, 5 p.m.

Jan. 28 >> vs. San Diego State, 6:30 p.m.

TCU Men’s sWiMMing & Diving

Jan. 8 >> vs. Utah 6 p.m.

Jan. 17 >> SDSU, Centenary, 1 p.m.

TCU WoMen’s sWiMMing & Diving

Jan. 9 >> vs. Utah, 6 p.m.

Jan. 17 >> SDSU, Centenary, 1 p.m.

Texas BrahMas >> NYTEX Sports Centre, 817.336.4ICE.

Jan. 2 >> vs. Corpus Christi, 7:05 p.m.

Jan. 16 >> vs. Arizona, 7:05 p.m.

Jan. 17 >> vs. Laredo, 7:05 p.m.

Jan. 25 >> vs. Rio Grande Valley, 3:05 p.m.

Jan. 30 >> vs. Mississippi, 7:05 p.m.

Jan. 31 >> vs. Tulsa, 7:05 p.m.

Stage

8 seConDs To ’09 neW Year’s eve ClassiC anD BUll riDing, DeC. 31— Jan. 1 >> Ring in the New Year with an exciting display of Bull Riding. Reserve your BBQ Buffet Dinner. Cowtown Coliseum in the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, 1.888.cowtown.

iCe! anD lone sTar ChrisTMas, ThroUgh Jan. 3 >> Back again and better than ever, Gaylord Texan’s fourth-annual Lone Star Christmas event, featuring the awe-inspiring ICE! Exhibit, provides a winter wonderland full of festive holiday events, activities, and displays for those of all ages to enjoy. Gaylord Texan Resort & Conference Center on Lake Grapevine, 817.778.1000.

soUThWesTern exposiTion anD livesToCk shoW & roDeo, Jan. 16— FeB. 8 >> Established in 1896, this popular event attracts nearly 1 million people from around the world to the Will Rogers Memorial Center for the nation’s oldest livestock show and daily performances of the world’s original indoor rodeo. Will Rogers Memorial Center, 817.877.2400.

all WesTern paraDe, Jan. 17 >> Grab your cowboy boots and hat, bundle up and head downtown for the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo “All Western Parade.” Don’t miss the tradition of the Fort Worth Stock Show’s “All Western Parade,” which is held each year on the first Saturday of the Show. Nearly 100,000 spectators line the streets of downtown Cowtown to watch this spectacular annual event. 11 a.m. Downtown Fort Worth, 817.877.2400.

2009 WesTern heriTage Trail Drive CeleBraTion, Jan. 17 >> North Texas nonprofit Score A Goal In The Classroom

School Incentive Program and the Fort Worth Cowtown Commission will hold the 2009 Western Heritage Trail Drive Celebration, a free event that includes performances by national recording artists and local school children, authentic Native American folk dancing, chuck wagon cooking, Western storytelling and more. Two City Place parking lot, 817.429.4024.

Trade days Usa, Jan. 24-25 >> Trade Days USA is a combination arts festival, arts and crafts show, flea market and more, all rolled up into one. Vendors will be selling everything imaginable in the Blue Ox Campgrounds across from the Speedway’s Dirt Track. Texas Motor Speedway, 817.255.6023.

exploring africa and exploring perU’s amazon JUngle, Jan. 30march 27 >> Diane Simons Lovell provides two photography and folk art exhibits in the display cases of the Garden Center hallway. The Exploring Africa exhibit features photos of tribes, endangered animals and African landscapes. The Exploring Peru’s Amazon Jungle exhibit features photos of tribes, animals an orchid and junglescapes. Fort Worth Botanic Garden Center, 817.871.7686.

coWBoys of color cUlTUral yo UT h heri Tage seminar , Wednesdays, year-roUnd >> National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame, 817.922.9999.

dance lessons, mondays and ThUrsdays, year-roUnd >> Billy Bob’s Texas, 817.624.7117.

grapeVine VinTage railroad, VarioUs daTes, year-roUnd >> Rides are available from Grapevine to the Fort Worth Stockyards and from the Stockyards to 8th Avenue at the Trinity River. Stockyards Station, 817.625.RAIL.

hisToric forT WorTh, inc. ToUrs, year-roUnd >> These tours include the Ball-Eddleman-McFarland House and the Thistle Hill House Museum. Historic Fort Worth, Inc., 817.336.2344.

omni TheaTer and no B le planeTariUm, year-roUnd >> The Omni Theater has numerous exciting shows daily. Construction on the museum’s new facilities continues through Fall 2009. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, 817.255.9300.

sTocKyards championship rodeo, friday and saTUrday, year-roUnd >> Rope, ride, race! Traditional rodeo fun for the whole family. Cowtown Coliseum, 888.269.8696.

sTocKyards daily caTTle driVe , year-roUnd >> The world’s only daily cattle drive. Fort Worth Stockyards, Exchange Street, 817.624.4741.

forT WorTh WaTer gardens, yearroUnd >> Here, visitors can stand 38 feet below street level amid 1,000 gallons of water cascading down a 710-foot wall. That’s just one attraction! Fort Worth, 1502 Commerce St., 817.871.7698. fw

The Heart of Compassion is Passion

Kay and Ben Fortson Honorary Chairmen

Lisa and Ben J. Fortson, III Dinner Chairmen

THE 2009 HEART BALL

May 9, 7:00 TO Midnight Omni FORT WORTH Hotel

For more information, contact Mary-Jane Stephenson at 817-698-5432 or maryjane.stephenson@heart.org Heart Society Champion DADS Advisory Fund – Debbie Viragh-Casias Sponsors

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WorthTasting [ [

With so many bars, grills and burger joints around, it’s nice to break away from monotonous American cuisine from time to time. Take a taste of Thailand at the positively reviewed Blue Mint Thai & Asian Cuisine (817.453.1999), which boasts of a spectacular selection of Thai food that’s part of the growing Asian cuisine craze. Specialties of this trendy and modern restaurant include a mouth-watering Pad Thai consisting of rice noodles, luscious tamarind sauce, egg, peanuts, tofu, vegetables and your choice of chicken or shrimp. Follow up an already ideal meal with their seasonal sweet sticky rice with mango, which seeps with perfection, and a cool cup of Thai iced tea or iced coffee. Now sporting a new menu with suggestions taken straight from their finest patrons, Blue Mint Thai & Asian Cuisine assures that even the pickiest eaters will have their fill. january’s guide

Tasting Thailand

at Blue Mint Thai & Asian Cuisine ]

Your guide to the best places to eat in the Greater Fort Worth area

The Dining Guide

american

Arlington / Mid-Cities

CH e F P oint CAF e >> 5901 Watauga Rd., Watauga, 817.656.0080. Eat gourmet in a gas station! Located inside a Conoco station, don’t expect white tablecloths in this cafe, whose motto is “Fill’er-up outside, fill’er-up inside.” This unique restaurant features everything from delicious burgers to stuffed steaks and lamb chops. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 7am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-8pm Sun. $ - $$

g A rden C ottAge te A roo M >> 5505 Davis Blvd., 817.656.9780. Escape to The Garden Cottage Tea Room inside Golightly’s Gallery in North Richland Hills. This graceful tea room has been serving tremendously light fare and decadent desserts: banana caramel pie, caramel pecan cheesecake and chewy butter cake, just to name a few — made from scratch — since 1985. This charming lunch or meeting spot, which is also available for special events, is the perfect place to grab a light lunch or enjoy a cup of tea. 11am-2pm Tue.-Sat. $

MAC’ s BA r & grill » 6077 W. 1-20, 817.572.0541. The cuisine in this Chicago-style restaurant ranges from Southwestern to Cajun to American grill. Dishes include prime rib, shrimp or crawfish étouffée and even chicken fried steak. Mac’s maintains an upscalecasual atmosphere with white tablecloths, tulip lights, dark wood walls and candlelight. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

MA r K et street » 5605 Colleyville, 817.577.5020. Good meals to eat in or take home. Good choices of breakfast, salads, pizzas and Tex-Mex. Don’t forget the cobbler. 6am-10pm daily. $

no F ril ls grill » 4914 Little Rd., 817.478.1766. Other locations: 801 S. Main St., Keller, 817.741.6344; 2851 Matlock Rd., Ste. 422, Mansfield, 817.473.6699. Along with its doppelganger on Eastchase Parkway, No Frills Grill offers large portions at low prices. Video games, a pool table, a back patio and 80-plus screens make dining fun at all hours at this local sports bar. 11am-2am daily. $

olen JACK’ s grille » 770 Road to Six Flags East, Ste. 100., 817.226.2600. Chef Brian Olenjack has developed an eclectic menu where there’s something for everyone. Try the chicken fried steak, so big you’ll have leftovers for days. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-8pm Sun. $- $$$ rose g A rden te A roo M » 3708 W. Pioneer Pkwy., 817.795.3093 The Rose Garden Tearoom is known for its flavorful rose tea and scrumptious bakeries. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into England. 10am-6pm Mon.Sat.; noon-6pm Sun. $

t H e sA n Ford H o U se » 506 N. Center St., 817.861.2129. The comfortable Victorianstyle inn just north of downtown offers exquisite dining. Reservations requested. 11am-2pm Sun-Wed.; 6:30am-10pm Thur.-Sat. $ - $$

so U t H ern re C i P es g rill » 2715 N. Collins St., 817.469.9878. A restaurant that offers up great atmosphere and a choice of chicken, seafood or steak. 11am-9pm Mon.Fri.; 8am-11pm Sat. $ - $$

V entA n A grille » 7005 Golf Club Dr., 817.548.5047. Located inside the clubhouse at Tierre Verde Golf Club. Serves all meals, but a great pick for an evening out! 6:30am-8pm Sun.-Wed.; 6:30am-10pm Thur.-Sat. $ - $$ Fort Wort H

B illY M iner’ s sA loon » 150 W. 3rd St., 817.877.3301. One of the first in downtown, you’ll find your favorite grill food, from burgers and fries to just about anything else. 11am10pm Mon.-Thur.; 12pm-1am Fri.-Sat. $

B l U e B onnet CAFÉ » 2223 Haltom Rd., Haltom City, 817.834.4988. The only thing better than the breakfast — and not much is

— is the pot roast. The Southern-style cooking is complemented by mementos from I Love Lucy. 6:30am-2:30pm Mon.-Sat. $

B U ttons » 4701 W. Freeway, 817.602.0211. Fort Worth venue to feature Keith Hicks’ signature upscale southern-chic cuisine paired with old school music and a vibrant atmosphere. Hours TBD.

CHA rleston ’ s » 3020 S. Hulen St., 817.735.8900. You can get as casual as coaching shorts, though we’d suggest one think better of it. There’s nothing casual, though, about the hickory-grilled pork, Idaho rainbow trout and classic baby back ribs. 11am-10pm Mon.Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. 11am-9pm Sun. $$

gA llerY Art C AF e » 609 S. Jennings Ave., 817.335.4646. The menu features American/Southwestern favorites, and the food is worth coming back for. 7am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 10am-2pm Sat. & Sun. $

t H e C oV e Y restAU r A nt & B re WerY » 3010 S. Hulen St., 817.731.7933. The brewery features a seven-barrel microbrewery at its center. Lunch and dinner menus range from pizzas to entrees. 11am-11pm Sun.Thur.; 11am-midnight Fri.-Sat. $$ - $$$

CU rlY’ s CU stA rd » 4017 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.763.8700. Cool down with a fresh frozen custard or try a milkshake—35 flavors to choose from! Enjoy on outdoor benches or drive thru. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am11pm Fri.-Sat. $

dixie H o U se CAF e » 3701 Belknap St., 817.222.0883. Other locations: 6200 E. Lancaster., 817.451.6180.; 5401 S. Hulen St., 817.361.8500. This family-operated restaurant is known for its chicken fried steak and homemade rolls. 6:30am-2pm Mon.-Thur. & Sat.; 6:30am-8:30pm Fri. $

dre W’ s P l AC e » 5701 Curzon Ave., 817.735.4408. A westside favorite for good home cooking. Excellent service and a friendly atmosphere. 10:30am-7pm Tue.-Thur.; 10:30am-8pm Fri.-Sat. $ - $$

F red ’ s tex A s CAF e » 915 Currie St., 817.332.0083. This great music venue features innovative food combinations, from hamburgers to green chili pork roast with sweet potatoes and sourdough battered chicken-fried steak and gravy. The outdoor patio only adds to the attraction of the fun café. 10:30ammidnight Tue.-Sat.; 10:30am-9pm Sun. Closed Mon. $$

l UC ile ’ s stAteside B istro » 4700 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.4761. Where do we start—with tableside bananas foster for an entrée or fried green tomatoes with an incredible lobster bisque for dessert? Grazing and drinking in any order are popular sports at this favorite westside bistro. Lucile’s has brunch Sat. and Sun. and 40, yes, 40, great martinis. 11:30am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11:30am11pm Fri.; 9am-11pm Sat.; 9am-10pm Sun. $$

l U n CH B ox » 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.2181. This westside lunch hot spot serves fabulous soups, salads and more. The colorful, flavorful menu will satisfy any taste. 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 11am-2:30pm Sat. $

MA sse Y’ s » 1805 8th Ave., 817.921.5582. Open since 1947, this place is an institution, built largely on its reputation for chickenfried steak. There’s all-you-can-eat catfish on Wednesday and Friday nights, and steaks, seafood and salads. For dessert, try a slice of homemade pie. No frills in the ambiance—this is strictly casual dining. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-9:30pm Fri.; 11am-9pm Sat.; 11am-3pm Sun. $

M ontgo M erY street CAFÉ » 2000 Montgomery St., 817.731.8033. This is no-frills cooking at its finest. From omelets to chicken-fried steak, the menu includes fabulous

» ratings

Most entrees under $10

Most entrees between $10-20

Most entrees $20 and over

Southern favorites. 6am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 7amnoon Sat. $

old neig HB or H ood grill » 1633 Park Place Ave., 817.923.2282. Everyone knows everyone’s name in this appropriately-named grill. Fabulous breakfast entreés of pancakes and Belgian waffles are matched by an equally scrumptious lunch/dinner menu. 7am-9pm Mon.-Sat. $

ol’ so U t H PA n CAK e H o U se » 1509 S. University Dr., 817.336.0311. This place is hopping 24 hours a day, so if you get a craving in the middle of the night for German pancakes, slip on your fuzzy house shoes and join the party. Open 24 hours. $

o VAtion dining A nd entertA in M ent » 6115 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.732.8900. This venue offers quality food and an extensive live music calendar. 6pm11pm Wed.-Thur.; 6pm-midnight Fri.-Sat.; noon-10pm Sun.; Closed Mon.-Tue. $$

PA ris C o FF ee s H o P » 704 W. Magnolia, 817.335.2041. This Fort Worth institution has been serving up homemade breakfasts and lunches since 1930. 6am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 6am-11am Sat. $

PA r K Hill C AF e >> 2974 Park Hill Dr., 817.921.5660. With a weekend menu that changes on a weekly basis, you can’t go wrong at this quaint cafe. On the regular weekly menu, try the Smoked Turkey Park Hill sandwich - smoked turkey, cranberry relish, coleslaw and spicy mustard on toast. Serves fabulous American cuisine in the evenings and a scrumptious Sunday Brunch. 10:30am3pm Mon.-Sat.; 6pm-9pm Thur.-Sat.; 10:30am1:30pm Sun. $-$$

P o P’ s sAFA ri roo M » 2929 Morton St., 817.334.0559. You’ll find just about any wine and a good cigar, but don’t forget the fine food in one of the two smoke-free dining rooms. Specializing in wild game, entre és feature beef tenderloin, crab cakes and more. 11:30am-2pm Tues-Fri.; 6pm-9pm Tue.-Sat. $$ - $$$

rise & s H ine » 3636 Altamesa Blvd., 817.423.3555. Breakfast served all day, featuring 54 varieties of omelets and other goodies. The lunch menu is pretty tasty, too. 6am-2pm daily. $ se C ret g A rden te A roo M » 2601 Montgomery St., 817.763.9787. Indeed a secret garden, the tearoom is nestled among 40 separate “shops” inside the Montgomery Street Antique Mall, which offers a unique casual dining experience. The menu features light sandwiches and a variety of salads, soups and quiche. And as the name implies, they carry a wide range of teas (might we suggest the apricot-mango?). 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 11am-4pm Sat.; noon-4pm Sun. $

snoo K ie ’ s » 2755 S. Hulen St., 817.207.0788. The menu at first seems typical of casual American cuisine until you hit Ostrich burger. If that doesn’t appeal, however, stick with cheese fries or any of the other five burgers. A fully stocked bar offers eight beers on tap—including Dos Equis Lager and Black and Tans—and four TVs to watch the big games. 11am-2am daily. $

tex A s grill » 6550 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.377.0270. This casual Western-style restaurant is a real steal, with the most expensive entrée less than $7. The menu features unusual items, such as tuna salad with homemade dressing and chicken-fried steak topped with spicy queso. A dozen bottled beers are available, including Texas favorites Shiner and Lone Star. 11am-9pm daily. $

tH e rose gA rden t e A roo M » 7200 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.731.7673. The Rose Garden Tearoom is known for its flavorful rose tea and scrumptious bakeries. You’ll feel as

if you’ve stepped into England. 11:30am-4pm Mon.-Sat.; noon-4pm Sun. $

V i CK erY CAFÉ » 4120 W. Vickery Blvd., 817.737.2277. Owner John Pendergrass offers a large breakfast menu at reasonable prices, as well as a lunch menu with such country favorites as chicken fried steak and fried catfish. Expect excellent service when you come here—the waitstaff has, on average, 15 years experience. 6am-3pm Mon.-Sat.; noon6pm Sun. $

VidA li A’s At tH e Wort H ington » 200 Main St., 817.210.2222. With dishes ranging from fried green tomatoes to smothered pork chops, the cuisine at Vidalia’s is unequivocally Southern. Using such regional products as beef from Grandview and grits from Waco, Vidalia’s homestyle take on upscale cuisine is infused with a true taste of the South. 6am10pm Mon.-Sun. $$

W estside CAFÉ » 7950 Hwy. 80, 817.560.1996. Enjoy Southern cooking served with Southern hospitality. The breakfasts are huge, the lunches are so good, and both will leave you needing/wanting a good Southernstyle nap. 6am-10pm daily. $

t H e Zodi AC roo M At nei MA n MA rCU s » 2100 Green Oaks Rd., 817.738.3581. A delightful dining adventure for lunch with excellent service. 10am-7pm Mon.-Sat.; noon6pm Sun. $$

Keller/lAK e Co U ntrY

HA r B or one » 9315 Boat Club Rd., Lake County; 817.236.8150. The view from this restaurant is one of the best in the county. 10a. m.-6p.m. Wed.-Sun. $

roA no K e

BAB e ’ s CH i CK en dinner H o U se » 104 N. Oak, 817.491.2900. A tradition among locals, Babe’s Chicken Dinner House offers Southern fried chicken, green beans, cream corn and salad with a sweet vinaigrette served family-style. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 4:30pm-9pm Mon.-Fri.; 11am-9pm Sat.; 10:30am-9pm Sun. $

C l A ssi C CAF e » 504 N. Oak St., 817.430.8185. This cozy house comforts guests as they enjoy some truly fine casual dining. 5p.m.-9p.m. Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$-$$$

doV e C ree K CAFÉ » 204 S. Highway 377, 817.491.4973. If you’re looking for soul food/Southern cooking, the Dove Creek Café serves up a healthy helping, along with a friendly waitstaff and fellow patrons. 6am8pm Mon.-Thur.; 6am-9pm Fri.; 6am-3pm Sat.; 6:30am-3pm Sun. $

Pr A irie Ho U se r estAU r A nt » 304 S. Hwy 377, 817.491.4855. Open since 1999, this eclectic and authentic Texas-style eatery serves up mesquite-grilled steaks, killer baby back ribs, barbecue and other delicious options. Try the buffalo burger or the chicken-fried ribeye for a treat. With unique decor and a different theme at every booth, the atmosphere is as entertaining to the senses as the fare. 11am-10pm Mon.-Sun. $-$$

so U t H l AK e

CAFÉ ex P ress » 1472 Main St., 817.251.0063. Zagat’s called these numerous Texas cafés “The Mercedes-Benz of fast food eateries” because their sophisticated setting and fresh food belie their self-serve nature. Start with a large, chic salad, such as nicoise, shrimp & avocado and couscous, or indulge in the pasta amoré, which certainly lives up to its to-die-for name. Wine, beer, cappuccino and espresso are all available. 11am-9pm Sun.Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$

t H e CH eese CAK e FAC torY » 1440 Plaza Place, 817.310.0050. Since 1978, The Cheesecake Factory has been serving up something for everyone. From soups and sal-

ads to seafood and pasta dishes, the servings are always generous—and the desserts are always decadent. 11am-11pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am12:30am Fri.-Sat.; 10am-11pm Sun. $$

SNOOKIE’S » 2801 E. Southlake Blvd., 817.488.2322. The menu at first seems typical of casual American cuisine until you hit Ostrich burger. If that doesn’t appeal, however, stick with cheese fries or any of the other five burgers. A fully stocked bar offers eight beers on tap—including Dos Equis Lager and Black and Tans—and four TVs to watch the big games. 11am-2am daily. $

X’S & O’S SPORTING TAVERN » 1239 Main St., Southlake, 817.251.6776. This place is not your typical sporting tavern. Both couples and singles can come for a romantic date or to enjoy the game. They serve everything from cheese sticks and burgers to seared chili-crusted tuna. 4pm-7pm Mon.-Thur.; 3pm7pm Fri. $

W EAT h ER fOR d Fire Oak Grill >>114 Austin Ave., 817.598.0400. This delicious eatery serves up the best in Southwestern, American and down-home Southern cuisine. Savor the taste of a delicious steak cooked to perfection or let your taste buds devour the Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie. This BYOB grill is sure to leave you satisfied! Lunch: 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; Dinner: 5pm-10pm Mon.-Sat. $-$$

aSIan

A R l INGTON

PEI WEI » 2100 N. Collins St., 817.299.8687. Other locations: 4133 E. Cooper St., 817.466.4545. Part of the P.F. Chang family, Pei Wei offers the same great mix of Asian cuisine but in a far more casual setting. Their specialty dishes include coconut curries and Mongolian and spicy Korean fare, which you order at the counter. 10:30am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 10:30am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

Dine. Shop. Explore.

Marie Antoinette Holliday, DMD, of Doc Holliday’s Dental Spa , offers preventive, general, and cosmetic dental services. Among the many treatment and diagnostic modalities she offers are Lumineers (the prepless veneer system) , implantology, laser dentistry, digital radiography, Invisalign and traditional orthodontics, TMD diagnosis and treatment, and her “Holliday” touch. “Doc Holliday” is located in Sundance Square above Cabo’s resturant and across from the Renaissance Worthington Hotel at 115 W. 2nd St., Suite 200. Call today (817) 877-1872 and visit www. dochollidayfw.com

Uno Chicago Bar & Grill Chicago’s original deep dish pizzeria is right in the heart of Sundance Square. Uno has surrounded its famous deep dish pizza with many colorful and exciting menu items. New favorites include Lemon Basil Salmon, Chicken Gorgonzola, Baked Stuffed Chicken, Classic Cobb Salad and organic flatbread pizzas. At lunchtime Uno offers a variety of items that will be served within ten minutes. Uno’s full service bar has many excellent signature drinks that compliment any meal. After the show, stop in for a slice of cheesecake or try Uno’s award winning Deep Dish Sundae. A fast and friendly staff is eager to serve you. For call ahead seating or to book a large party, please call 817-885-8667.

PIRANHA’S KILLER SUSHI » 851 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd., 817.261.1636. Other locations: Arlington Highlands 309 Curtis Mathes Way, #149 817.465.6455 Sushi rolls, tempura and teriyaki dishes dominate an incredible menu of Japanese delights. 11am-10pm Mon.Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.; Noon-11pm Sat.; Noon10pm Sun. $$

SUKHOTHAI » 423 N. Fielder Plaza, 817.860.4107. A tiny restaurant that serves healthy Thai cuisine. No MSG is found in the cooking here. Try the chicken satay or the steamed spring rolls. 11am-2pm, 5pm-9:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 5-9:30pm Sat. $

TASTE OF THAI » 2535 E. Arkansas Lane, 817.543.0110. This authentic Thai restaurant serves up fresh dishes daily. 11am-3pm, 4:30pm-10pm Mon.-Fri.; 11:30am-3pm,4:30pm10pm Sat.; 11:30am-9:30pm Sun. $

BEDFORD

THAI j AS m INE » 3104 Harwood Rd., 817.283.8228. This wonderful Thai restaurant has some of the best Pad Thai one could ask for. Serves wine and beer. 11am-9pm Mon.Sat.; 4:30pm-9pm Sun. $

FORT WORTH

ASIA BOWL & GRILL » 2400 Lands End, 817.738.1688. From Vietnamese and Korean to every possible variety of Chinese cuisine, the offerings on this menu are sure to please any palate. Fresh ingredients combined with complex flavors make this a fabulous dining experience. 11am-9:30pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am10pm Fri.-Sat. $

EDOHANA HIBACHI SUSHI » 2704 S. Hulen, 817.924.1144. Other locations: 5816 S.W. Loop 820, 817.731.6002. Table-side food preparation is just part of the experience—a fabulous sushi bar includes many delicacies. 11am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm-9:30pm Mon.Thur.; 5pm-10pm Fri.-Sat.; $$

HUI CHUAN SUSHI, SAKE, TAPAS » 6100 Camp Bowie #12, 817.989.8886. This small, yet visually appealing, restaurant is full of surprises. Owner Hui Chuan Logan will not only remember your face, but maybe even what you ordered. With a wide variety of tapas and sushi, you are bound to find something that sounds appealing. 11:30am-2:30pm Mon.-Sat.; 5:30pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5:30pm11pm Fri.-Sat.; 5:30-10pm Sun. $$

jAPANESE PALACE » 8445 Camp Bowie West, 817.244.0144. Japanese décor and dark wood paneling transport you to Asia, as the hibachi chefs slice and dice your entrée right before your eyes. Sit at a cooking table, traditional American tables or try sitting authentically on the floor. Often busy, but reservations are not required. 5:30pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5:30pm-11:45pm Fri.-Sat. $$ - $$$ mY LAN » 4015 Belknap St., 817.222.1471. This Vietnamese restaurant serves multiple rice dishes with vegetables, meat and seafood, and there are more than 100 items on the menu. 9am-9pm Mon.-Sun. Closed Wed. $

PEI WEI » 5900 Overton Ridge Blvd., 817.294.0808. Other locations: 2600 W. 7th St., Montgomery Plaza, 817.806.9950. Part of the P.F. Chang family, Pei Wei offers the same great mix of Asian cuisine but in a far more casual setting. Their specialty dishes include coconut curries and Mongolian and spicy Korean fare, which you order at the counter. 10:30am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 10:30am10pm Fri.-Sat. $

P.F. CHANG’S » 400 Throckmorton, 817.840.2450. A gorgeous, upscale restaurant found across America, P.F. Chang’s believes food should be “fresh, contemporary and outstanding.” They mix traditional and modern Chinese Southeast Asian cuisine to form a vast menu complemented by an extensive wine list. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

PHO BELLA » 4023B E. Belknap St. Haltom City, 817.834.3552. If you’re looking for a Southeast Asian dinner, you’ll find Vietnamese delights, such as pho and vermicelli bowls. Don’t forget the Saigon pancake. 10am-9pm Tue.-Sat.; 10am-7pm Sun. $

PHO LITTLE SAIGON » 6942 Green Oaks Blvd., 817.738.0040. Authentic Vietnamese cuisine at low prices is served up in a friendly atmosphere. 10am-8:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 10am3pm Sat. $

PHU LA m » 4125 E. Belknap St., 817.831.9888. The fare is updated and includes new choices in Vietnamese and Chinese food. 10am-10pm Sun.-Sat. $ - $$

PIRANHA’S KILLER SUSHI » 335 W. 3rd St., 817.348.0200. Sushi rolls, tempura and teriyaki dishes dominate an incredible menu of Japanese delights. 11am-10pm Mon.-Wed.; 11am-11pm Thur.; 11am-1am Fri.; Noon-1am Sat.; noon-10pm Sun. $$

S ONNY ’ S D INER » 6220 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.732.7754. This Asian Bistro combines the flavors of Vietnam, Korea and Japan to generate a diverse and delectable menu. 11am2 pm, 5 pm-8:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 11am-2:30pm Sat. $

SUSHI AXIO m j APANESE FUSION

RESTAURANT » 4625 Donnelly Ave. Ste. 101., 817.735.9100. Enjoy Japanese flavor combined with American flair in a stylish setting for a great sushi experience. 11am-10pm Mon.Fri.; noon-10pm Sat.; noon-9pm Sun. $$

SZECHUAN » 5712 Locke Ave., 817.738.7300. Other location: 4750 Bryant Irvin Rd., Cityview Plaza, 817.346.6111. This Chinese favorite counts on high-quality food and service to keep patrons coming back for more. Enjoy the fresh and flavorful dishes in an elegant, yet casual, atmosphere. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

T HAI T INA’ S » 703 N. Henderson St. 817.332.0088. With a myriad of selections on its eccentric menu, this downtown restaurant lives up to its slogan, “A menu that’s simply to Thai for.” 11 am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri-Sun. $$

TOKYO CAFE » 5121 Pershing Ave., 817.737.8568. This Camp Bowie hideaway delivers great sushi at reasonable prices. Please come casual. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

YOKO SUSHI >> 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd. Ste. 280. 817.737.4000. This new sushi restaurant offers their own version of the Ahi tuna tower—the DFW Tower. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm-10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $-$$

G RAPE v INE

EDOHANA HIBACHI SUSHI » 1501 W. State, Grapevine, 817.251.2004. Table-side food preparation is just part of the experience—a fabulous sushi bar includes many delicacies. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5:30pm-10:30pm Fri.; 5pm10:30pmSat.; 5pm-9:30pm Sun. $$

P.F. CHANG’S » 650 W. Highway 114, 817.421.6658. A gorgeous, upscale restaurant found all across America, P.F. Chang’s believes food should be “fresh, contemporary and outstanding.” They mix traditional and modern Chinese Southeast Asian cuisine to form a vast menu complemented by an extensive wine list. 11am-11pm daily. $$

HURST

SWEET BASIL THAI CUISINE » 977 Melbourne Rd., 817.268.2899. This authentic Thai restaurant serves up high-end dishes without the high-end price. Delicious curries and soups are their trademark. 11am-9:30pm Mon.-Sat. $ - $$

SOUTHLAKE

BLUE BA m BOO CHINESE BISTRO » 480 W. Southlake Blvd. 817.748.0028. This chic little restaurant has one of the tastiest summer rolls in town. 11am-9:30pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $-$$

KOBEYA jAPANESE HIBACHI & SUSHI » 1230 Main St., 817.416.6161. Hungry for food and entertainment? Then Kobeya Japanese Hibachi & Sushi is the right place. Delicious food, wonderful service and Hibachi chefs to keep you smiling and amused. 11:30am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; noon-3:30pm Sat.-Sun.; 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm-10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$

PEI WEI » 1582 E. Southlake Blvd., 817.722.0070. Part of the P.F. Chang family, Pei Wei offers the same great mix of Asian cuisine but in a far more casual setting. Their specialty dishes include coconut curries and Mongolian and spicy Korean fare, which you order at the counter. 10:30am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 10:30am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

THAI CHILI » 215 Grand Ave., 817.251.6674. A Thailand setting with an American twist.

They serve up beautifully prepared food that you can’t help but savor as it goes down. They also cater, so if you can’t join them, they’ll bring the party to you. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 12pm-11pm Fri.; 11am-9:30pm Sat.-Sun. $ - $$

BARBECUE

A RLINGTON

DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT » 817.289.0027. 5530 S. Cooper, 817.468.0898. 1801 Ballpark Way 817.261.6600. A Texas tradition since 1941 is now serving great Texas-style barbecue in Arlington. Offering eight slow-cooked meats and 16 freshly made vegetables. Dine-in, takeout, drive-thru and catering. 10:30am-8:30pm daily. $

NEON m OON BAR & GRILL » 309 Great Southwest Parkway, 817.633.5771. Owner Art Davidson has remodeled his neon-filled bar. A simple menu accompanies a full-service bar that offers three beers on tap and 20 bottled beers, including Texas-made Shiner. On Friday and Saturday nights, blues and classic rock live entertainment are the focus, and check out the Blues jam on Monday nights. 10am-2am Mon.-Sat.; Noon-2am Sun. $

RED HOT AND BLUE » 1350 E. Cope;and Rd., 817.795.7427. Beef may be king here, but Memphis-style barbecue has taken our town by storm. Although pork is the house specialty, chicken and beef dishes are also available. 11am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$

FORT WORTH

ANGELO’S » 2533 White Settlement Rd., 817.332.0357. A big bear right inside the door invites you to big beers on the tables. But the big draw is the brisket, hickory-smoked out in back of this uncontrived institution that also serves chicken. No credit cards, but checks are welcome, and there’s an ATM in the building. 11am-10pm Mon.-Sat. $

COUSIN’S PIT BARBECUE » 6262 McCart Ave., 817.346.2511. Other location: 5125 Bryant Irvin Rd., 817.346.3999. Brisket, ribs, chicken and homemade sausage are the staples, along with cobblers and delicious cakes. A 21-year family-run business, Cousin’s has opened up a third location in Keller as a drive-thru/takeout hot spot. 11am-9pm Mon.-Sat. $

DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT » 451 University Dr., 817.231.8813, Other locations: 5724 Bryant Irvin, 817.361.1034. 1000 N.E. Loop 820, 817.289.0027. 1989 Colonial Parkway, 817-759-7500. A Texas tradition since 1941 is now serving great Texas-style barbecue in Fort Worth. Offering eight slow-cooked meats and 16 freshly made vegetables. Dine-in, take-out, drive-thru and catering. 11am-8pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-9pm Fri.-Sat. $

RAILHEAD S m OKEHOUSE » 2900 Montgomery St., 817.738.9808. One of the most popular barbecue spots in Fort Worth, but we live for the homemade French fries. It sometimes gets so crowded you have to use the satellite parking lot across the street. 11am-9pm Mon.-Sat. $

RED HOT AND BLUE » 3000 S. Hulen St., 817.731.8770. 9143 Grapevine Hwy., 817.605.1333. Beef may be king here, but Memphis-style barbecue has taken our town by storm. Although pork is the house specialty, chicken and beef dishes are also available. 11am-9pm Sun.-Wed.; 11am-10pm Thur.-Sat. $$

RISCKY’S » 6701 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.989.1800. 300 Main St., 817.877.3306. 2314 Azle Ave., 817.624.8662. 9000 U.S. 377, Benbrook, 817.249.3320. A legend in Texas since 1927, Riscky’s secret is the way that the meat is smoked. All of their meat is hand-trimmed, rubbed with “Riscky dust” and then naturally smoked for hours in wood-burning pits. The historic Stockyards location offers a spacious patio that is the perfect place to sit back and watch the daily longhorn cattle drive. 11am-9pm Sun.-Mon.; 11am-10pm Tues.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

THE S m OKE PIT » 2401 E. Belknap St., 817.222.0455. This BBQ joint has various types of smoked meats and is great for dine-in or to have cater your next party. 10:30am-8pm Mon.-Fri.; 10:30am-6pm Sat. $-$$

TRAILBOSS BURGERS » 140 E. Exchange Ave, 817.625.1070. Same owners but a new concept. This restaurant, formerly part of the Riscky’s chain, focuses

on what it does best, burgers. 11am-7pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am9pm Fri.; 11am-10pm Sat $ -$$

HURST

DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT » 1858 Precinct Line Rd., 817.656.0200. A Texas tradition since 1941 is now serving great Texas-style barbecue in Fort Worth. Offering eight slow-cooked meats and 16 freshly made vegetables. Dinein, take-out, drive-thru and catering. 11am9pm daily $

BRA ziliAn

FORT WORTH

TEXAS DE BRAZIL » 101 N. Houston St., 817.882.9500. The meat never stops coming as waiters dressed as gauchos go table to table offering it on swords. Between the all-youcan-eat unique salad bar and selection of 14 meats, you’ll need to be wheeled out of this upscale restaurant. 5pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-2pm & 5pm-10:30pm Fri.; 4pm-10:30pm Sat.; 4pm-9pm Sun . $$$

GRAPE v INE

BOI NA BRAZA » 4025 William D. Tate, 817.329.5514. Tasty food served with Brazilian flair. Offers constant choices of meat by servers at your table. 5pm-10pm Mon.-Sat.; 5pm-9pm Sun. $$$

BURgERs & sAndwiChEs

A RLINGTON

AL’S HA m BURGER’S » 1001 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd., 817. 275.8918. The place is an institution in north Arlington. The burger joint serves up delicious hamburgers and other good fast food. 6:30am-10:30pm Mon.-Sat. $

CAPTAI N BILLY WHIZZBANG’S » 2406 W. Park Row Dr., 817.861.9498 A burger and fries treat with excellent onion rings. It’s a hot spot for lunch and a quick dinner. 10:30am-8pm Mon.-Sat. $

CHAPPS » 2045 N. Hwy. 360, 817.649.3000. Other locations: 153 Southwest Plaza (1-20 & Little Road), 817.483.8008. 2596 E. Arkansas, 817.460.2097. Cheeseburgers, Baby Chapps, mushroom burgers and jalapeño burgers (among others) are cooked to order from freshly bought meat served on freshly baked buns. A large menu stuffed with Philly cheese-steak sandwiches, fried okra, stuffed jalapeños and chicken strips means you’ll never eat the same thing twice. 11am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-9pm Fri.-Sat. $

FORT WORTH

B. j . KEEFERS » 909 W. Magnolia Ave., 817.921.0889. Keefers is a favorite quick lunch spot for medical district professionals. You’ll find a wide menu and baked goods that are homemade onsite. Casual is the key word—order at the counter and then build your own sandwich at the condiment bar. There’s a happy hour, too. 10:30am8:30pm Mon.-Fri. $

CHAPPS » 6219 Oakmont Blvd., 817.263.5172. Cheeseburgers, Baby Chapps, mushroom burgers and jalapeño burgers (among others) are cooked to order from freshly bought meat served on freshly baked buns. A large menu stuffed with Philly cheese-steak sandwiches, fried okra, stuffed jalapeños and chicken strips means you’ll never eat the same thing twice. 11am-9pm Sun.-Thu.; 11am-9pm Fri.-Sat. $

D UTCH ’ S » 3009 S. University Dr. 817.927.5522. Chef Grady Spears is at it again with his newly opened burger joint. Laid back atmosphere with good-tasting burgers and fries. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-3pm Sun. $

THE GREAT OUTDOORS » 3204 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.877.4400. Try one of three gourmet breakfast subs filled with choices of eggs, ham, pastrami, cheddar, Swiss or cream cheeses. Lunch subs abound, topped with the usual meats and served on fresh preservative-free sub rolls. Great stop on a summer day after the park or the museums. 9am-9pm Mon.-Sat.; 10am-8pm Sun. $

KINCAID’S » 4901 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.732.2881. Other location: 4825 Overton Ridge Blvd., 817.370.6400. There are those who will swear this is the best burger in the country, and the lunchtime line of parked cars that stretches two to four blocks in every direction of this old grocery store is a testament to both the legend and the taste. Enjoy at picnic tables inside or at stand-up counters. Frills would seem unnecessary. 11am-8pm Mon.-Sat. $

the love shack » 110 E. Exchange Ave., 817.740.8812. Tim Love’s latest concept is far removed from his fine dining restaurants, but the food’s just as good. Try the love burger, it’s one of Tim’s favorites. 11am-8pm Sun.-Wed.; 11am-10pm Thur.; 11am-1am Fri.-Sat. $

pappa’s burgers » 2700 W. Freeway. 817.348.8273. From the same group that brought Pappadeaux and Pappa’s Steaks, Pappa’s Burgers is the newest addition to the family. Try the blue cheese burger. You won’t be disappointed. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am11pm Fri.-Sat. $-$$

the pour house sports gr I ll » 209 W. 5th St., 817.335.2575. The Pour House offers a little bit of everything from sports bar munchies to steaks, which can be washed down with one of 25 bottled beers. Enjoy the spectacular view of downtown on Wednesday during karaoke, Thursday with the Top 40/Rock DJ or weekends with a live band. 11am-2am daily. $

purple coW d I ner » 4601 W. Freeway, 817.737.7177. The Cow has standard burgers, fries and ice cream sundaes with all that finger junk kids like to track all over the table. Yes, playing with the condiments is okay. 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun.-Thu. $

to MMY’ s ha M burgers » 2701 Green Oaks Rd. 817.735.9651. Other locations: 5228 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.569.1111. 3431 W. 7th St., 817.885.7500. Noted, obviously, for excellent burgers, Tommy’s serves up mouthwatering daily specials, including a fabulous chicken-fried steak. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thu.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-8pm Sun. $ southlake

johnn Y b’s burgers & shakes » 2704 E. Southlake Blvd., Southlake, 817.749.0000. This joint takes pride in their signature sweet sourdough bun, premium Texas beef, handcut fries and much more. try one of the olf fashioned shakes. 10:30am-8:30pm Mon.Thur.; 10:30am-9pm Fri.-Sat.; 10:30am-3pm Sun. $

continental

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ca FÉ at da I reds » 2400 W. I-20 ., 817.465.9797. Serving lunch in a casual, energetic setting, The Café at Daireds offers a variety of upscale entrées, salads and homemade soups. The Café treats with gourmet threecourse prix fixe menu that changes weekly and a fully stocked bar. 9am-6pm Mon.; 9am-9pm Tue.-Thur.; 9am-6pm Fri.; 8:30am-5:30pm Sat.; noon-6pm Sun. $ - $$

Fort Worth

ca FÉ aspen » 6103 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.0838. This westside favorite includes a fish menu that changes regularly, and the rack of lamb alone would merit a return visit. Go casual or dressed to the nines—either way, you’ll fit in. The ambiance becomes even more elegant at night with candlelight. An adjoining full bar offers a high-end well. A fabulous patio is open seasonally. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm-9pm Mon-Sat. The bar opens at 11am and closes one hour after the kitchen. $$

ca FÉ ashton and p I ano bar » 610 Main St., 817.332.0100. The café delivers stunning upscale new American cuisine with showmanship on the plate and elegance in the décor. Executive Chef Ismael Rojas offers an excellent menu of tasty foods—from Chilean sea bass to lamb. 6:30am-9pm daily. $-$$$

delis & bakeries

a rl I ngton red oven » Bowen & Park Row, 817.274.1423. This French bakery prepares fresh artisan breads daily. Best known for their wonderful Red Velvet, Black Forest and Italian Cream cakes. 8:30am-6pm Tue.-Fri.; 8:30am-5pm Sat. $$

Fort Worth

art I san bak I ng co M pan Y » 4900 White Settlement Rd., 817.821.3124. Now the award winning breads and scones from the bakers of Cowtown Farmers Market can be purchased at Fort Worth’s only independent artisan baker. Locally made sourdough, focaccia, multi-grain, cinnamon, roasted garlic, and breakfast bread as well as scones and abundant sweets are now year-round purchases. 9am-5pm Tue.-Fri., 8amnoon Wed. & Sat. at the Farmer’s Market. $

baker bros . a Mer I can del I » 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.989.1400. Baker Bros. serves up only the finest quality breads, meats and cheeses. 11am-9pm daily. $

bluebonnet bakerY » 3905 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.731.4233. Consistently chosen as one of the city’s finest bakeries, while their lunch crowd continues to grow. Try a homemade petit four, and you will quickly become a regular. 7am-6pm Mon.-Fri.; 7am-4pm Sat.. $

carshon ’ s del I catessen» 3133 Cleburne Rd., 817. 923.1907. Open since 1928, so you know they’re doing something right. Choose from their big specialty sandwiches, such as the Rebecca, Rachel or Ruthie, homemade soups and chili and homemade pies, including chocolate, butterscotch or pecan. 9am-3pm Mon.-Sat. $

the cupcake cottage » 5015 El Campo Ave., 817.732.5670. This bakery is heaven for anyone with a sweet tooth. Five different flavored cupcakes every day. 10am- when the last cupcake is sold. Tue.-Sat. $

esparan Z a’ s M e XI can ca FÉ & bakerY » 2122 N. Main St., 817.626.5770. 1109. Other location: Hemphill St., 817.332.3848. The Lancarte family has yet another hit with this cafe and bakery, where a fabulous brunch, traditional Mexican dishes and freshbaked pastries are the norm. Breakfast is served all day on weekends. 6:30am-7pm daily $

kolache shoppe » 6724 Brentwood Stair Rd., 817.457.0071. Be sure to visit this longtime purveyor of delicious kolaches, muffins, fritters and more. 6am-noon Tue.-Sat.; 7am-noon Sun. $

M ck I nle Y’ s FI ne bakerY & ca F e » 1612 S. University Dr., 817.332.3242. This cafe is a great place for friends to meet to catch up on old times. Our bakery is made from scratch right here in house. We use 100% real butter and never bake from mixes or add preservatives. Try the pecan-crusted chicken salad.

8am-6:30pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-5pm Sun. $

panera bread » 1700 S. University Dr., 817.870.1959. Other location: 1804 Precinct Line Rd., 817.605.0766. The word “bread” is deceiving, although there’s plenty of it. Think more along the lines of “Big Fat Sandwich and Dessert.” 6:30am-9pm Mon.-Sat.; 7am-8pm Sun. $

the snoot Y p I g » 2401 Westport Parkway, 817.837.1077. Other locations: 1540 Keller Parkway, Keller, 817.431.0064. Great breakfast stop, also good for lunch. Don’t get away without trying the famed muffins, baked daily. 6am-2pm Mon.-Fri., 7am-noon Sat.; 8am-2pmSun. $

s ubl IM e bakerY >> Country Day Plaza, 5512 Bellaire Drive, 817.570.9630 Among her other delicacies, Catherine Ruehle’s scones, cheesecakes and cupcakes are indeed sublime.

8 am-5:30 pm Mon.-Fri.; 9 am-5 pm Sat $-$$

sWI ss pastrY shop » 3936 W. Vickery, 817.732.5661. A Fort Worth tradition for 30 years, the shop serves a traditional breakfast, as well as lunch. And they are rumored to have the best German sausages in town. 6:30am5:30pm Tue.-Fri.; 7:30am-4pm Sat. $

W e I nburger’ s del I » 6801 Rufe Snow Dr., 817.416.5577. Other location: 3 Village Circle, Westlake, 817.491.9119. 611 Main St. Grapevine., Weinburger’s Deli specializes in quality meats and cheeses. They also offer a variety of fresh salads. 8:30am-7pm Mon.-Sat.; 11am-3pm Sun. $

Yog I’ s bagel ca F e » 2710 S. Hulen St., 817.921.4500. The best bagels in Fort Worth come from this eclectic eatery that hosts a killer breakfast. Later in the day, choose from a truckload of salads with a cup of the house specialty, borscht. Come ready to stand in line on Saturday and Sunday mornings. 6:30am-9pm Mon.-Fri.; 7am-9pm Sat.; 7:30am-3pm Sun. $ grapev I ne

M a I n street bread bak I ng co M -

pan Y » 316 Main St., 817.424.4333. Located in historic downtown Grapevine, Main Street Bread Baking Company offers quality baked goods, including fresh breads and decadent cakes and desserts. With offerings like Grand Marnier cake, an orange liqueur cake filled with a light orange cream and garnished with whipped Italian butter cream, it’s easy to see why this cafe and bakery has become a favorite among locals. 6:30am-6:30pm daily $ the snoot Y p I g » 4010 William D. Tate, 817.283.3800. Great breakfast stop, also good for lunch.

Don’t get away without trying the famed muffins, baked daily. 6:30am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 7am-2pm Sat.-Sun $

southlake

baker bros .a Mer I can del I » 2820 E. Southlake Blvd., 817.748.3354. Baker Bros. serves up only the finest quality breads, meats and cheeses. 11am-9pm daily. $

e legant c akerY >> 2707 E. Southlake Blvd., Ste. 140, 817.488.7580. From cakes to cupcakes to Petit Fours, each of Elegant Cakery’s products is sure to make your event unforgettable. 9 am-6 pm Tues.-Sat. $-$$

eclectic

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MY M art I n I WI ne & b I stro » 859 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd., 817.461.4424. The incredible tapas menu is almost as tempting as the drink list, which includes the signature Brady martini, made with pickle brine and a dill pickle spear. 3:30pm-11am Sun.-Thur.; 3:30pm-1am Fri.-Sat. $$ Fort Worth

8.0 restaurant & bar » 111 E. Third St., 817.336.0880. The Jell-O shot pioneer of the 1980s is still a cool drinking spot, where martinis now rule. 8.0 continues to feed eclectic tastes from a full menu, and the dinner hour lasts late for theater-goers. This art bar offers great jazz and blues under the stars on the patio, which seats 350. Every wall is handpainted by local artists. 11am-10pm Mon.-Tue.; 11am-1am Wed.; 11am-2am Thur.-Fri.; noon-2am Sat.; 10am-2am Sun. $$

ca FÉ M odern » 3200 Darnell, 817.840.2157. The Modern Art Museum features a restaurant with grilled salmon with melted citrus butter, beautiful desserts and a Sunday brunch that is a must. Reservations are recommended for parties of five or more. 11am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 11am-3pm Sat.-Sun. $$

k IM bell art M useu M » 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.332.8451, ext. 251. Unlike the works here at one of the nation’s primo art museums, the menu changes every day in the kitchen, where the staff turns out creatively crafted sandwiches, salads and soups, including a killer gazpacho. Matisse sculptures give an aristocratic flair; Friday night dinner features live music. Lunch 11:30am-2pm Tues.Thur. & Sat.; noon-2pm Fri. & Sun.; Dinner 5:30pm-7:30pm Fri. $$

l I l I’ s b I stro >> 1310 W. Magnolia Ave. 817.877.0700. This quaint bistro focuses on tradition. Start with the Gorgonzola fries and move on to the Spinach & Mushroom grilled chicken. Delicious! 11a.m.-2:30p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 5:30p.m.-9p.m. Wed.-Thur.; 5:30p.m.-10p.m. Fri.-Sat. $$

sp I ral d I ner » 1314 W. Magnolia, 817.332.8834. At this 100 percent vegan and mostly organic restaurant, you can find nearly anything you could desire on the menu. Freshtasting and affordable, don’t forget about their wide variety of juices and smoothies. 11am-10pm Tue.-Sat.; 11am-5pm Sun. $

Z a M brano WI ne cellar » 910 Houston St., Ste. 110, 817.850.9463. With a menu featuring more than 200 wines, this wine bar should be a priority for all wine lovers. 3pm-11pm Mon.-Thur.; 3pm-1am Fri.; 4:30pm1am Sat. $-$$ s outhlake

sandella’ s ca FÉ » 1245 Prospect St., 817.421.0727. Finally, a place to eat delicious food without the worry of calorie counting. This family-owned restaurant spices up delicious sandwich wraps, such as the Chicken Verona or the flatbread pizza. With their relaxing European atmosphere, you’re likely to stay not only for the food, but the free Internet, as well. 9am-7pm Mon.-Sat. $

ethnic

Fort Worth

bo M baY gr I ll » 4625 Donnelly Ave., 817.377.9395. This Indian restaurant serves up classics like Tandoori and garlic naan (flatbread). 11am-2pm & 5:30pm-10pm daily. $

bY blos » 1406 N. Main St., 817.625.9667. Owned by a member of the same family who owns Hedary’s, this Stockyards restaurant serves the same great Middle Eastern fare. Don’t miss Friday nights, the day that brings bellydancing into the Stockyards. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thu.; 11am-11pm Fri.; 5pm-11pm Sat. $$

chadra M e ZZ a & gr I ll >> 1622 Park Place. 817.924.2372. Creative dishes featuring spicy Lebanese food and homemade Italian. 11 am-3 pm, Mon.-Tues; 11 am-10pm, Wed.Sat. $-$$

hedarY’ s » 6323 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.731.6961. Tucked into a shopping center just off the road, Fort Worth’s other Lebanese eatery includes the best hummus we ever put a lip to. Enjoy the Frarej chicken, baked with potatoes and tomatoes in olive oil, garlic and lemon juice. 11am-10pm Sun.; 11am-10pm Tue.Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.; 5pm-11pm Sat.; Closed Mon. $

k I ng tut » 1512 Magnolia Ave., 817.335.3051. The Middle East meets the Mediterranean to bring us an alternative Egyptian restaurant. Try one of many healthy dishes including falafels, hummus and tabbouleh. Prices suggest that attire is formal, but the atmosphere mandates a casual look. 11am-2:30pm Mon.Sat. 5:30pm-9pm Mon.-Sat. $$

M aharaja » 6308 Hulen Bend Blvd., 817.263.7156. This restaurant has a large menu offering many different Indian dishes, such as Chicken Makahani. The breads with curries are especially good. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 11:30am2:30pm Sat.-Sun.; 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thu.; 5pm10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$

french

a rl I ngton

cacharel » 2221 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 910, 817.640.9981. Rock-solid French fare that has evolved into just about the finest in the county. The three-course fixed price dinner runs a happy gamut between lobster and ostrich, or have a steak cut to order. The place is peaceful elegance, high above Six Flags with a great view. You won’t get off cheaply, but you won’t be disappointed. 11:30am-2pm & 5pm-10pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-10pm Sat. $$$

Fort Worth

b I stro lou I se » 2900 S. Hulen St. Suite 40, 817.922.9244. Voted Best French in Tarrant County. Chef Louise Lamensdorf frequently travels to Europe for inspiration, which returns to Cowtown in the form of superior sauces and excellent wine selections. It has a romantic, relaxed atmosphere that welcomes a lust for food. Their Sunday brunch is quite possibly the best in town! 11am-2pm Mon.Sun.; 5:30pm-9pm Tue.-Thu.; 5:30pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$ $

la M adele I ne » 6140 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.732.4656. Other locations: 305 Main St., 817.332.6099. 2101 N. Collins St., Arlington, 817.461.3634. 4201 S Cooper St., Arlington, 817-417-5100. 900 Hwy. 114 W., Grapevine, 817.251.0255. Croissants, pastries, soups, salads and more are served in a charming European atmosphere. Camp Bowie 6:30am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 6:30am-11pm Fri.-Sat. ; 6:30am8pm Sun.-Thur.; 6:30am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; HW114 6:30am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 6:30am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; Collins and Cooper 6:30am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 6:30am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

sa I nt- e MI l I on » 3617 W. 7th St., 817.737.2781. Well-concocted country French dishes, including duck, lamb, steak tartare and fresh fish. Full bar. 6pm-10pm Tue.-Sat. $$ $

german

Fort Worth

edelW e I ss ca FÉ » 3801 Southwest Blvd., 817.738.5934. A German food anchor in West Fort Worth for 32 years. Family operated with emphasis on fun and food, Edelweiss offers Bavarian charm and substantial fare. Dance to a live German band, complete with ritual chicken dance. 5pm Tue.-Sat. $$

g reen Wood’s » 3522 Bluebonnet Cir. 817.921.6777. A great place to venture out and try some traditional German cuisine. 4pm-

9pm Tue.-Thur.; 4pm-10 pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-3pm Thur.-Fri.. $$

greek

Fort Worth

CAFÉ MEDI » 420 Grapevine Hwy., 817.788.5110. This authentic Greek restaurant offers only the freshest and homemade recipes, including Greek salad, gyros and tasty hummus and flatbread. 11am-2:30pm, 5pm10pm Tue.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun. $

G r EEK ho USE » 2426 Forest Park Blvd., 817.921.1473. Gyros, souvlaki and more in a counter pickup eatery just right for TCU students with a need for study and sustenance. Food is fresh, well prepared and promptly presented for customer pickup. 11am-8pm Mon.-Sat. $

JAZZ CAFÉ » 2504 Montgomery St., 817.737.0043. Funky, laid-back service and atmosphere with dependable Tex-Greek food and great music. House band plays fine jazz on Sunday. Sunday champagne brunch. 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 9am-3pm Sat.; 9am-2pm Sun. $

italian

Arl I n Gton/M ID - CI t IES

BI r AP or E tt I’S » 668 Lincoln Square, 817.265.0588. Birraporetti’s is a perfect spot for an elegant meal. Offering pastries, breads and fine Italian food, this restaurant features live jazz and a special brunch menu served from 11am-11pm. Sun.-Mon. & Wed.-Thur.; 11am-12:30am Tues.; 11am-12am Fri.-Sat. $$

I tA l IA nn I’S » 1601 Precinct Line Rd., Hurst, 817.281.7272. This quaint Italian bistro includes the genre standards, as well as some creative dishes like three-pepper calamari. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thu.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

LA BISTRO » 722 Grapevine Hwy., Hurst 817.281.9333. Enjoyable menu with excellent pastas and other traditional menu items, including seafood. 11am-10pm Sun.-Fri.; 5pm11pm Sat. $$

NIZZA PIZZA » 1430 S. Cooper, 817.274.5222. This innovative family pizza place has customers lining up around the block. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thu.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

PALIO’S PIZZA CAFÉ » 5712 Colleyville Blvd., 817.605.7555. This pizza café offers interesting and high-end pizza toppings. 11am10pm daily. $

PICCOLO MONDO » 829 E. Lamar Blvd., 817.265.9174. Don’t let the strip-center dining surprise you. Excellent service and inviting atmosphere. 5:30pm-10:30pm Mon-Thu.; 11:30am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm-11pm Fri.Sat.; 5pm-10pm Sun. $ - $$

RUGGERI’S RISTORANTE » 32 Village Lane, Colleyville, 817.503.7373. A sweeping menu that offers a full choice of Italian favorites and more. You’ll find what you want, from chicken to beef to pasta. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-9pm daily $$

FORT WORTH

AVENTINO’S » 3206 Winthrop Ave., 817. 731.0711. Good old-fashioned Italian. Think chicken picatta and one of the best no-frills marinaras around. Luscious desserts, too. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 5:30pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$ - $$ $

BELLA ITALIA WEST » 5139 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.1700. The most wild game this side of Fossil Rim. This dimly lit set of nooks and rooms is a great romantic setting, but it’s also suitable for high-powered business or low-key gatherings of friends. 11:30am-1pm Mon.-Fri.; 6pm-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 6pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$

CAFÉ BELLA » 3548 South Hills Dr., 817.922.9500. The café is a busy place and known for its pizza, lasagna, salad and cheese bread. 11am-10pm Mon.-Fri.; 4pm-10pm Sat. $ - $$

CIAO » 500 Commerce St., 817.335.0500. Directly across from Bass Hall downtown, the restaurant serves up classic Italian in the form of delicious Caesar salads and pizzas. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

F ERRÉ R ISTORANTE BAR >> 215 E. Fourth St. 817.332.0033. This new Tuscan-Italian eatery offers a range of dishes. For more traditional, try the Spaghettini Pomodoro, or for a heartier appetitie try the Agnello al Forno, a seared lamb loin dish. 4pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 4pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

FORTUNA » 5837 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.737.4469. This little Italian restaurant is a favorite among Fort Worthians. 11a.m.-10p.m. Sun.-Thur.; 11a.m.-11p.m. Fri.-Sat. $ ITALIAN INN RIDGLEA » 6323 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.737.0123. Chic and classic menu offers veal, chicken, seafood and pasta. Get ready for attentive service in a vintage underground nightclub setting, complete with singing waiters. 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm11pm Fri.-Sat. $ - $$

LA PIAZZA » 1600 S. University Dr., #601, 817.334.0000. Upscale Italian cuisine in University Park Village Shopping Center. Dress nicely to visit this lovely (and pricey) Italian spot ... the experience is worth it. 11:30am-1pm Sun.-Fri.; 5:30pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 4pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$$

MAMA’S PIZZA » 1813 W. Berry St., 817.923.3541. Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.731. MAMA This Fort Worth staple has been serving up great pizza in Fort Worth since 1968. Lunch buffet: 11am-2pm daily. Delivery through Entrees-To-Go: 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am11pm Fri.-Sat.; Noon-10pm Sun. $

MANCUSO’S » 9500 White Settlement Rd., 817.246.7041. A westside favorite that draws crowds from all over. Consistently flavorful authentic Italian fare. Large portions served with outstanding pastas, a wonderful Italian fish fry and homemade sausages. 11am-1pm Mon.-Fri.; 4pm-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 4pm-10pm Fri.-Sat.: Closed Sun. $

MARGIE’S ORIGNIAL ITALIAN KITCHEN » 9805 Camp Bowie West, 817.244.4301. 1950s-style eatery that serves pizza from a brick oven and equally fine lasagna, chicken

marsala and shrimp scampi. 5pm-10pm Sun.Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

MELLOW MUSHROOM » 3455 Bluebonnet Circle, 817.207.9677. A funky and fun 1960s ambiance good for large gatherings. Come ready to eat unique pizza. 11am-10pm Sun.Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

MILANO’S » 3416 W. 7th St., 817.332.5226. Pizza is a big menu item, but you’ll find more than enough choices to satisfy your hunger. 10am-10pm Mon.-Sat. $

NONNA TATA » 1400 W. Magnolia Ave., 817.332.0250. With a weekly changing menu, this small Italian restaurant is a hidden gem that begs to be found. 11am-3pm Tue.-Fri.; 5:30pm-8:30pm Tue.-Thur.; 5:30pm-9:30pm Fri. $-$$

ON BROADWAY RESTAURANT » 6306

Hulen Bend, 817.346.8841. Italian fare that features homemade pasta and seafood. Don’t go away without trying a flaming dessert. New executive chef. 5:30pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5:30pm-10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$

P IOLA » 3700 Mattison Ave., 817.9890007. Nestled in Fort Worth’s Cultural District, this cozy bistro serves up true comfort food in the form of authentic Italian cuisine. Try Grandma’s Lasagna or the smoked-chicken fettuccini. For a treat, make reservations to dine on the patio. 11am-2pm Mon-Fri; 5pm10pm Mon-Sat. $$

PIZZERIA UNO CHICAGO GRILL » 300 Houston St., 817.885.8667. With a great location downtown and pizza you can’t find anywhere else in Texas, Uno’s Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is a must. Don’t skip the heavenly chocolate peanut butter cup dessert! Large menu offers many choices for everyone. 10am-11pm Sun.-Thur.; 10am-Midnight Fri.-Sat. $

RUFFINO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT » 2455 Forest Park Blvd., 817.923.0522. A light homemade ravioli is our favorite to slip on a fork and across the table into the mouth of a close dining partner at this upscale romantic spot also known for its chicken, beef and pasta. Voted best in town by Fort Worth, Texas magazine readers. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$

TAVERNA RISOTTERIA » 450 Throckmorton St., 817.885.7502. Hand-tossed pizzas, risottos, pastas and entrées that include beef tenderloin, sea bass and yellowfin tuna. The bar offers beer and wine, and the bottomless mimosas are divine. Sunday brunch. 11am10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $ - $$

GRAPEVINE/SOUTHLAKE/ COLLEYVILLE

BRIO TUSCAN GRILL » 1431 Plaza Place, Southlake, 817.310.3136. Whether you want to eat in or just need that warm Italian bread to go, this restaurant has you covered. High-quality steak and house-made pastas are cooked in an authentic Italian wood oven to give you the taste of Italy. 11am-10pm Sun.Thur., 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $ - $$

BUCA DI BEPPO » 2701 E. State Hwy. 114, Southlake, 817.749.MAMA. A neighborhood restaurant where guests feast on family platters of Southern Italian specialties in a boisterous, celebratory environment that recalls the supper clubs of the 1940s and ’50s. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun. $$

F ERRARI ’ S I TALIAN V ILLA >> 1200 William D. Tate Ave., 817.251.2525. This upscale restaurant boasts authentic Italian cuisine. Owned by the Secchi family, Ferrari’s serves century-old family recipes with a modern twist. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-10pm Mon.Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$-$$$

RAVIOLI » 120 E. Worth, Grapevine, 817.488.1181. Excellent ingredients and huge portions will satisfy the biggest appetites in your family. 11am-2pm Tue.-Sat.; 5pm-9pm Tue.-Thur.; 5pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

Latin american

C OLLEYVILLE /FORT WORTH

GLORIA’S » Colleyville: 5611 Colleyville Blvd., 817.656.1784. Fort Worth: 2600 W. 7th

St., 817.332.8800. Arlington: 3901 Arlington Highlands Blvd., Ste. 137, 817.701.2981. Gloria’s offers an alternative to Tex-Mex cuisine with a dash of Salvadoran flavor. Favorites include the seafood soup, ceviche and grilled pork. Colleyville: 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-2am Fri.-Sat. Fort Worth: 11am-9pm Sun.-Mon.; 11am-10pmTue.-Thur.; 11am-2am Fri.-Sat. $-$$

mediterranean

FORT WORTH

SAPRISTI! » 2418 Forest Park Blvd., 817.924.7231. Relaxed, elegant dining that features a European flair. Items include mussels and tapas, and you’ll also find risotto, duck and braised lamb shank. 5:30pm-9:30pm Tue.Thur.; 5:30pm-10pm Fri.-Sat.; Sunday brunch from 10:30am-2pm. $$

SCAMPI’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE » 1057 W. Magnolia Ave., 817.927.1887. Italian and Greek cuisine in a setting recently redecorated for romance. Counter service at lunch and full table service in the evening. BYOB. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm-9pm Wed.-Thur.; 5:30pm-9:30pm Fri.-Sat. $

The Vault >> 525 Taylor St., 817.348.9828. Sample sumptuous Mediterranean cuisine and wonderful wines in a warm, Europeaninspired setting, and linger at the hip V Lounge Wine & Martini Bar located downstairs. Signature dishes include Vault Paella and many temping tapas selections. Lunch: 11am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; Dinner: 5:30-10pm Mon.-Wed.; 5:3010:30pm Thur.-Sat. $$-$$$

mexican

COLLEYVILLE /GRAPEVINE

ESPARZA’S » 124 E. Worth St., 817.481.4668. Located in a 19th-century home in historic downtown Grapevine, this quaint little restaurant serves Tex-Mex favorites. You never know who will show up, by the looks of all the famous faces gracing the walls. 11am10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am9pm Sun. $

LA HACIENDA RANCH » 5250 Hwy. 121, Colleyville, 817.318.7500. Mexican food is the fare, and the grilled steaks are excellent. Don’t forget the fajitas. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

RIO MAMBO » 5150 Highway 121, 817.354.3124. Salad takes a new twist alongside standard Tex-Mex favorites, with the Los Cabos, a Mexican cobb salad of sorts with chicken, avocado and bleu cheese. 11am9:30pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$

FORT WORTH

ANTHONY’S » 2400 Meacham Blvd., 817.378.9005. The Santa Fe-style Mexican cuisine features red and green chile enchiladas, fajitas, seafood and more, as well as a great selection of beer, wine and margaritas. 7am2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-9pm Wed.-Sat. $ BAKER ST. PUB & GRILL » 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.377.9772. British-themed pub with a menu that offers shepherd’s pie and Scotch egg with good chutney. You’ll also find a mix of Tex-Mex with a Brit nuance thrown in for good measure. 11am-2am daily. $ - $$

BENITO’S RESTAURANT » 1450 W. Magnolia Ave., 817.332.8633. Other location: 2516 N.E. 28th St., 817.740.1679. Authentic Mexican fare with some Tex-Mex mixed in. Great weekend breakfast, as well. 10am-9pm Mon.-Thur., 10am-2am Fri.-Sat., 11am-9pm Sun. $

CABO GRANDE » 115 W. 2nd St., 817.348.8226. Good service plus Mexican dishes in a festive atmosphere. Enjoy ribs, snapper and fajitas outside on the patio. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-midnight Fri.-Sat. $$

C ANTINA L AREDO » 530 Throckmorton St. 817.810.0773. Start with the top shelf guacamole and move on to the Enchiladas de Mole. Don’t forget to save room for the scrumptious Mexican apple pie. 11am-10p. m Mon-Thur.; 11am-11 pm Fri.-Sat.; 10am-9pm Sun. $-$$

C HIMY ’ S C ERVECERIA >> 1053 Foch St. 817.348.8888. Famous for it’s nachos and

addictive margaritas, this place is a must try for all Tex-Mex lovers. 11am- midnight. Mon.-Sat. $

CHIPOTLE » 3050 S. Hulen St., 817.735.8355 Other locations: 3000 W. 7th St., 817.348.8530. 4484 Bryant Irvin Rd., 817.735.4506. 9127. 1312 W. Pipeline Rd., 817.595.3875. 3010 E. Southlake Blvd., 817.748.4745 Good food at a low price. Standard Mexican tacos and burritos. Everything is made to order while you watch. 11am-10pm daily. $

DOS GRINGOS » 1015 University Dr., 817.338.9393. The name says it all. The Tex-Mex menu is top fare in a setting that appeals to the Cultural District crowd. Their margaritas are the largest in town! 11am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

EL FENIX » 6391 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.732.5584. More than 80 years ago, the Martinez Family pioneered what is now known internationally as the Tex-Mex food phenomenon, but they also offer many traditional Mexican food dishes that are popular south of the border. El Fenix is the oldest chain of family-owned Tex-Mex restaurants in the United States. 11am-10pm daily. $

E L R ANCHO G RANDE » 1400 N. Main St., 817.624.9206. This family-owned and -operated Mexican restaurant has been a Cowtown favorite for more than 60 years. Fresh tortillas and chips and salsa are made from scratch daily, and the eatery is housed in a beautiful vintage 1918 restored building on the north side of Fort Worth. 11a.m.-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $-$$

ESPA RANZA’S MEXICAN BAKERY & CAFE » 2122 N. Main St., 817.626.5770. Other location: 1109 Hemphill St., 817.332.3848. The south-of-the-border fare draws neighborhood families and downtowners alike because of the friendly surroundings. It’s owned by the people who run Joe T. Garcia’s, so you know you’re in for a good time. Bakery: 6am-7pm daily; Cafe: 6:30am-6pm Mon.-Fri.; 6:30am7pmSat.-Sun.; 6:30am-5:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 6am5:30pm Sat.-Sun. Hemphill. $

FERNANDEZ CAFE » 4220 W. Vickery Blvd., 817.377.2652. This family-friendly Mexican eatery offers a low-fat selection of food on its menu. 6:30am-2pm daily $

FIESTA » 3233 Hemphill St., 817.923.6941. Twenty-five years in one location with the original owners. Some employees have even been here for 23 years! The brightly colored lights make for a nice ambiance. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

FUZZY’S TACO SHOP » 2917 W. Berry St., 817.924.7943. 2719 Race St., 817.831.TACO The favorites for late nights are tacos, big burritos, great enchiladas and beer. A TCU student hot spot. 10:30am-2am Thu.; 10:30am-3am Fri.Sat.; 10:30am-midnight Mon.-Wed.; 8am-10pm Sun.; 9:15am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 9:15am-11pm Fri.-Sat. Race St. $

JOE T. GARCIA’S » 2201 N. Commerce, 817.626.4356. Family owned and operated for three generations, Joe T.’s is a must for outside dining. Pick one of two menu choices (enchiladas or fajitas) and feast in one of the courtyards or in the fiesta gardens. Beware: The weekend rush will keep you in line for a table, but it’s well worth the wait. Cash only. 11am-2:30pm, 5-10pm Mon.-Thur., 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. 11am-10pm Sun. $$

LA FAMILIA » 841 Foch St., 817.870.2002. Family-owned and -operated restaurant. Lunch specials are served six days a week. Good service and great Tex-Mex are served up here in large portions. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

LA PLAYA MAYA » 6209 Sunset Dr., 817.738.3329. Other locations: 1540 N. Main St., 817.624.8411. 3200 Hemphill St., 817.924.0698. Traditional Tex-Mex is well done, but the seafood is better. A must-order here is the succulent ceviche (raw fish) cooked in lime juice, then mixed with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro and peppers. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.; 10am-11pm Sat.; 10am-10pm Sun. $

LOS MOLCAJETES » 4320 Western Center Blvd., 817.306.9000. Here, you have a tremendous amount to choose from, including various enchiladas, tostadas, fajitas, chimichangas, combination platters and a sampler platter for the lunch crowd. 11am-9:30pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun. $

los vaqueros » 2629 N. Main St., 817.624.1511. Located across from Billy Bob’s Texas, this northside favorite is a great place for inexpensive, but absolutely delicious, TexMex. You cannot find better beef fajitas. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 10:30am-3pm Sun

M a MBo ’ s » 1010 Houston St. in the Park Central Hotel, 817.336.3124. A downtown favorite. Mambo’s famous tacos and incredible margaritas will keep you going back for more. Late-night dining at its best. 11am2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-12am Tue.-Thur.; 5pm-2am Fri.-Sat. $

MI C o CIN a » 509 Main St., 817.877.3600. Other location: 4601 W. Freeway (I-30 and Hulen), 817.569.1444. A favorite all over the Metroplex. Nachos locos, chicken con hongos, mongo goodo and the famous Mambo Taxi that may make you looso drunko. Easygoing cantina atmosphere. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur. 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

MI C o CINITa » 3509 Bryan Ave., 817.923.0033. This backyard café offers a cozy, casual dining experience. One of Fort Worth’s best-kept secrets. 10:30am-2:30pm Wed.-Fri. $$

TH e or IGIN al » 4713 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.6226. Fort Worth’s oldest Mexican restaurant offers all of the traditional favorites such as warm flautas and homemade tamales in a warm, family-friendly setting. 11am-9pm Tue.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun. $

Pa PPas ITo ’ s C a NTIN a » 2704 West Freeway, 817.877.5546. Other location: 321 W. Road to Six Flags, Arlington, 817.795.3535. Next door to Pappadeaux, this restaurant draws large crowds with generous helpings of TexMex food. The quality is the best, the portions are huge, and the service is impeccable. 11am10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

Pul I dos » 5051 Hwy 377 S. 817.732.7871. Other locations: 817.732.7571. 2900 Pulido St., 817-731-4241. 4924 Old Benbrook Rd. Classic Mexican restaurant offering everything from enchiladas to crispy tacos. 11am-9:30 pm MonThur.; 11am-10 pm Fri.-Sat. $

r I o M a MBo » 6125 I-20 at Bryant Irvin, 817.423.3124. Salad takes a new twist alongside standard Tex-Mex favorites, with the Los Cabos, a Mexican cobb salad of sorts with chicken, avocado and bleu cheese. 11am9:30pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10:3pm Fri.-Sat. $$

sa MMY’ s res Taura NT » 300 West Central, 817.624.0764. Mixture of American and Mexican items includes steaks, soups, seafood, enchiladas and tacos. 5pm-11pm Wed.-Thur.; 5pm-4am Fri.-Sat. $-$$

T res J oses C o CIN a M e XIC a N a » 4004 White Settlement Rd., 817.763.0456. Decidedly creative menu with a range of choices, from chargrilled chicken breast to grilled shrimp, fancy tamales stuffed with sirloin and topped with tomatillo salsa. 11am9pm Tue.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun.; Closed Mon. $$

u NC le J ul I o ’ s » 5301 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.377.2777. A West Fort Worth cult eatery, and it’s easy to see why. This national chain has blended the best parts of Southwestern cuisine with Mex and Tex-Mex, giving guests a flavorful dining experience. 11am-10:30pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$ W I lloW Park

l os vaquero s » 4971 E. I-20N 817.441.1551. Sister restaurant to Los Vaqueros in the stockyards, this has the same menu with a more laid back, family-friendly atmosphere. 11am-9pm Sun. & tue.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.Sat. $-$$

a rl INGTo N

F I s H C ITY Gr I ll » 3900 Arlington Heights Blvd. 817.465.0001. This casual restaurant offers tasty treats from the sea at tasty prices. Try the blue crab stuffed mushrooms or the Fish city sandwich. 11am - 10 pm Mon.Thur.; 11am – 11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am- 9pm Sun. $-$$

ForT WorTH

daddY J aC k ’ s » 353 Throckmorton, 817.332.2477. The attentive servers and the expertly cooked dishes make for a wonderful dining experience. Crab cakes with big chunky pieces that are hard to come by. Lobster tail and the catch of the day are the main attractions of the seafood house in the heart of the Wild West. 11am-2pm Mon.-Sat.; 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

J&J oYsT er Bar » 612 N. University Dr., 817.335.2756. The Oyster bar is the best place where locals go for oysters, scallops and the best seafood gumbo in town. 11a.m.-10p.m. Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

lo N e sTar oYsT er Bar » 4750 Bryant Irvin Rd., 817.370.0030. Seafood lovers shouldn’t leave this place without trying the tasty oysters. A fun place to unwind after a long day at the office or outside in the Texas sun. The daily specials are excellent, as well. 11am-2am Tue.-Sat.; 11am-midnight Sun.-Mon. $

Pa PPadeau X » 2708 West Freeway, 817.877.8843. Other location: 1304 E. Copeland Rd., Arlington, 817.543.0544. Basic New Orleans-themed chain, but hardly pedestrian on the palate. Keep in mind, the Arlington location is one of the busiest spots in the county, especially when the neighboring Texas Rangers are in town. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

ra ZZ oo ’ s » 318 Main St. in Sundance Square, 817.429.7009. Other location: 4700 Bryant Irvin Rd. in Cityview, 817.292.8584. Why go to Mardi Gras when you’ve got Razzoo’s at home? Less fancy than the competition, they offer Louisiana favorites, as well as specialty drinks, like hurricanes, gator punch and worm burners. 11am-11pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-2am Fri.-Sat. $$

ro C k FI s H » 3050 S. Hulen St., 817.738.3474. A seafood lover’s paradise in a good peoplewatching place. Tender pastas complement all the seafood choices, and the raspberry margarita is too tasty for words. 11am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$

Z eke ’ s FI s H & CHIP s » 5920 Curzon Ave., 817.731.3321. This Fort Worth staple serves up something different than the Southern battered fish fry. Modeled after English fish and chips. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.; 10am-11pm Sat.; Noon-9pm Sun. $

sou TH lake

FI s H CITY G r I ll » 2750 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 130, 817.748.0456. This casual restaurant offers tasty treats from the sea at tasty prices. Try the blue crab stuffed mushrooms or the Fish city sandwich. 11am - 10 pm Mon.Thur.; 11am – 11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am- 9pm Sun. $ - $$

T rulu C k’s sea Food, sT eak & C ra B H ouse » 1420 Plaze Pl.; 817.912.0500 . It’s all about the fresh seafood and tender crab at Truluck’s which features a weekly changing menu. 5pm-10pm daily $$$

southwest

ForT WorTH

B lue M esa Bar & G r I ll » 1600 S. University Dr., 817.332.6372. Other location: 158 E. Southlake Blvd., Southlake, 817.416.0055. Escape Tex-Mex fever and opt for superb Southwestern cuisine in this favorite University Park Village haunt. Low-fat menu choices make it easy for the calorie counters. Their popular happy hour provides delicious quesadillas with drinks. One of the best brunches you’ll ever eat. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am11pm Fri.-Sat.; 10am-10pm Sun.; 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 10am-9pm Sun. Southlake. $$

B o NN ell’ s FIN e T e X as C u I s IN e » 4259 Bryant Irvin Rd., 817.738.5489. Wonderful Texas game dishes, fresh grilled seafood, steaks and chops. Something for every taste, like the grilled trout with mango salsa. Draws an upscale crowd both dressy and casual. Extensive wine list. 11am-2:30pm Tue.-Fri.; 5:30pm-10pm Tue.-Sat. $$ $

la NNY’ s alTa C o CIN a M e XIC a N a » 3405 W. 7th St., 817.850.9996. Don’t go in expecting traditional enchiladas and tacos. Instead, enjoy multiple courses of nouvelle Mexican cuisine from a fourth-generation member of the Joe T. Garcia family. 11:30am-

2pm Tue.-Fri.; 5:30pm-10pm Tue.-Thur.; 5:30pm-10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$$

TH e lo N eso M e dove W esT er N BI sT ro » 2406 N. Main St., 817.740.8810. A white-tablecloth dining establishment in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards. Chef/ owner Tim Love has brought together a collection of dishes that reflects the spirit of food from the traditional and new Southwest. We suggest the duck quesadillas and the coffee-rubbed kangaroo tail. 11:30am-2:30pm Tue.-Sat.; 5pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$ $

MICH aels resTaura NT & a NCH o CHI le Bar » 3413 West 7th St., 817.877.3413.

Michaels Restaurant & Ancho Chile Bar serves up contemporary Southwestern cuisine, a comfortable atmosphere and an extensive list of fine wines. The Chile Bar offers its own unique menu. 11am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm-10pm Mon.-Wed.; 5:30pm-11pm Thur.Sat. Chile Bar hours: 11am-11pm Mon.-Wed.; 11am-1am Thur.-Fri.; 5pm-1am Sat. $ reaTa » 310 Houston St., 817.336.1009. A garden bar three stories above downtown and two stories of dining make this one of the most popular tickets in Fort Worth. Well, that, and an innovative menu that includes such palate-pleasing favorites as smoked quail on cheese grits, chicken-fried steak and a chili relleno stuffed to the gills with cheese. The crowd is lively and the waitstaff is unmatched. 11am-2:30pm, 5pm-10:30pm daily. Bluegrass Brunch 11am-2pm Sun. $$

steaks

arl INGTo N

M aC’ s sT eaks & sea Food » Arlington: 6077 I-20 W. 817.572.0541. Fort Worth: 2600 W. 7th St., Ste. 153, 817.332.6227. Colleyville: 5120 Hwy. 121, 817.318.6227. Trendy but casual pub featuring steaks and seafood. 10am-10pm Sun.; 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.Sat. $-$$

T ra I l dusT sT eak H ouse » 2300 E. Lamar Ave., 817.640.6411. The large and lively atmosphere make this a good place for a night out with the family. They serve a wide variety of steaks and have a tasty appetizer selection, to boot. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pFri.Sat. $$$

ForT WorTH

C aTT le M e N’ s sT eak H ouse » 2458 N. Main St., 817.624.3945. In the Stockyards since 1947, Cattlemen’s is a beef institution where you choose your steak from the glass butcher case. If you’re not a red-meat eater, there is a good selection of superb seafood and chicken. 11am-10:30pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 1pm-9pm Sun. $$$

del F r I s C o ’ s dou B le eaG le sT eakH ouse » 812 Main St., 817.877.3999. A Fort Worth/Dallas legend. The meat is great, and so is the service. Don’t hesitate to try the fish or the mock turtle soup made with beef and sherry. A perfect special-occasion dining location. 5pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 5pm-9pm Sun. $$$

Fue G o » 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.377.4400. Try chef/owner Efrain Benitez’s Queso Fuego. This dish, ignited tableside, features cheese, jalapenos and ground beef. 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-10pm Mon.-Sat. $$$

GraC e r esTaura NT >> 777 Main St., 817.877.3388. With fresh, bold flavors and high-quality ingredients, Grace serves modern American classics on its protein-driven menu. Hours TBD.

H3 ra NCH » 109 E. Exchange Ave., 817.624.1246. The bunkhouse feel lends a special Stockyards flavor to roast pork Southernstyle, and be sure to try a gooey caramely dessert served in a skillet or a flaming steak with 150-proof fuel. The huge open hickory grill gets your attention right away. 11am10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.; 9am-11pm Sat.; 9am-10pm Sun. $$$

H o FFB rau » 1712 S. University Dr., 817.870.1952. A relaxed setting that serves up good steaks, chargrilled pork chops, baconwrapped shrimp, fried pickles and banana pudding. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

k J’ s sou THW esT G r I ll » 9143 Grapevine Hwy., 817.503.8883. New to the Tarrant County landscape, this restaurant offers steaks, burgers and other American favorites. 11am-10pm daily. $

TH e ke G sT eak H ouse & Bar » 5760 S.W. Loop 820, 817.731.3534. The fireplace makes it cozy, but the food makes it better, especially the oddball, round “baseball steak.” Try the bacon-wrapped scallops with a zesty cocktail sauce or the grilled top sirloin. 4pm10pm Sun.-Thur.; 4pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$$ l a MB erT ’s >> 2731 White Settlement Road, 817.882.1161. Lambert’s serves bold ranch cuisine in a big city setting. Enjoy country cooking and live music on Friday and Saturday nights. 5-10 pm Mon.-Thur.; 5-11 pm Fri.-Sat.; 11 am-3pm Sun. $$

M erC urY CH o P H ouse » 301 Main St., 817.336.4129. The menu is the only way to describe this place of beef tenderloin Oscar, Dijon-crusted pork chops, truffled polenta and halibut over a roux of Kalamata olives and Roma tomatoes. 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-3pm Sun. $$$

M&M sT eak H ouse » 1106 N.W. 28th St., 817.624.0612. This restaurant may be small, but the steaks sure aren’t. Try one of these huge slabs of meat smothered in a garlic sauce. The food is excellent. Cash only. 5pm-11pm Tue.-Sat. $$

M r esTaura NT » 215 University Dr. This upscale fusion restaurant serves up a wide array of culinary favorites, including juicy filet mignon cooked to perfection. The fare can be described as creative, contemporary cuisine in a modern, edgy atmosphere. 5pm-11am Mon.-Sun.; 10:30pm-2am Fri.-Sat. $$-$$$

r I s C k Y’ s s T eak H ouse » 120 E. Exchange Ave., 817.624.4800. A true Old West décor serving Texas-size steaks of certified Angus beef. Originally frequented by visiting ranchers, cowboys and cattlemen involved with the stockyards and livestock business, making them famous for their calf fries and excellent steaks. 11am-9pm Sun.-Mon.; 11am10pm Tue.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$-$$$ ru TH ’s C H r I s >> 813 M AIN S T., 817.348.0080. RUTH S Chris famous steaks are seared to perfection at 1800 degrees and topped with fresh butter so they sizzle all the way to your table. 5-10 pm Mon.-Thur.; 5-11 pm Fri.-Sat.; 5-9:30 pm Sun. $$$

sH ula’s 347 >> Sheraton Hotel, 1701 Commerce St., 817.870.2700. Named after Hall of Fame football coach Don Shula, this high-end steakhouse with a sporty flair offers everything from salads to burgers to its famous Shula Cut steaks. 6:30 am-10 pm Sun.-Thur.; 6:30 am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

s I lver F oX s T eak H ouse » 1651 S. University Dr., 817.332.9060. Other location: 1235 William D. Tate, Grapevine, 817.329.6995. Prime veal, steak salads and off-the-cob cream corn are a few of the favorites on this menu of upscale Western chophouse fare. Popular for gatherings, as well as a heckuva steak. 4pm10pm Mon.-Sat. $$ $

G ra P ev IN e /sou TH lake / C olle Y v I lle

J. r .’ s s T eak H ouse » 5 400 Hwy. 121, 817.355.1414. The menu has plenty of steaks and seafood to choose from, but reasonably priced first courses and salads could easily pass for small entrées. J.R.’s draws a more casual crowd, but there is nothing casual about the food. Wine lovers will also be pleased to find a number of bottles priced in the $30 to $80 range. You will also find live music nightly in the adjoining bar. 4pm-lounge; 5pm-10pm Mon.-Sat.; Closed Sun. $$$

k I r BY’ s sT eak H ouse » 3305 E. Hwy. 114, Southlake, 817.410.2221. A fine dining experience featuring prime-aged, bone-in ribeye and pepper steak. Excellent seafood, as well. 4:30pm-10pm Sun.-Thu.; 4:30pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$$

›› Have We MIssed Your FavorITe HoT sPoT? Send the restaurant name and a brief description of why it should be included to: (cstrube@fwtexas.com), or call (817.560.6100). Be sure to include a phone number, hours of operation and a description of the ambience.

Spotlight[ [

Roy Lee Ward

[ Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo program artist for more than 30 years]

by Ana Bak

“My father was just an old cowboy,” said Roy Ward, reminiscing about his childhood.

Ward, 67, has been the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo program artist since 1973. He was born in Graford, Texas, grew up on a ranch and always had at least three horses around. So when the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, then the Fat Stock Show, asked him in 1973 if he could paint a horse for their program cover, he was thrilled.

Ward is an acclaimed western artist, having designed and painted many western-themed murals. His newest project— other than this year’s Stock Show & Rodeo program—is restoring the 28 murals above the entrance of the rodeo building.

A Baylor alumnus, Ward graduated with a degree in painting and art history. He then moved to California to pursue his dream as an artist and started working for an advertising agency that allowed him to work with corporations like MGM and United Artist, to name a few. After a while, Ward said, he was

tired of living out West and wanted to move back to Texas.

“We’d had enough of California,” he confessed. “We wanted to come back where people said ‘thank you,’ ‘come again’ and ‘nice to meet you.’”

So Ward, with his wife, Betty, decided to move to the Dallas/ Fort Worth area so that he’d have more freelancing opportunities. Through the years, Ward said, he realized that he did more work in Fort Worth and liked its atmosphere better than surrounding cities.

“There are no worries about being bothered on the streets,” Ward said. “There’s a friendly hometown attitude in a great big town.”

Ward said he still employs his agent in New York but gets enough work freelancing that he doesn’t keep in touch that often.

“Good things have happened since I started doing what I wanted to do,” Ward said. “I’ve been very fortunate.”

The Extra Mile

Deborah, Dennis and Douglas Fontana

For the busy Fontana family, simplicity and service are inseparable qualities when purchasing a new car. Over the past 13 years, the family has purchased seven luxury vehicles from Park Place Motorcars Bedford. Deborah Fontana remains a loyal customer because of the no-hassle experience. “They know me, and they know what I want,” Deborah says.

Perfect for leisurely trips around town, the Fontana family loves traveling to dinner and church service in style and comfort. Deborah has enjoyed all of her luxury cars including her current vehicle, a Mercedes-Benz SL550. The most recent vehicle purchased from Park Place Motorcars Bedford was the Mercedes-Benz S63 Sedan for Deborah’s son, Douglas. Her other son, Dennis, cruises around in a Mercedes-Benz CL550.

The family has never been dissatisfied or unimpressed with any of their experiences at the dealership. Deborah wants to make future customers aware of the exceptional service provided by Park Place Motorcars. “If you’re looking for class and excellent customer service, Park Place offers the finest. They never hesitate to go the extra mile for their customers.”