Creating something real – something that lasts is what drives Southbouth Tattoo owner, Alex Freeman, in his day-to-day life as a business owner. "I’m motivated by creating a business that people trust, a shop our team is proud to be part of, and an experience clients remember for the right reasons. Tattooing is personal, so the environment around it matters. I’ve always wanted Southbound to be more than a place that does good tattoos. I wanted it to be a place with standards, identity, and heart," he said.
Alex said the biggest shift he's seen is that people are a lot more intentional now. "Clients want quality. They want professionalism. They want a better overall experience, not just a quick transaction. They care more about who is doing the work, what the shop stands for, and whether the process feels solid from start to finish." By pushing their standards and staying focused on craftsmanship, communication, and client care, Southbound Tattoos has become a staple in the Waxahachie community for people wanting tattoos.
"I think what makes Southbound unique is that we care deeply about both the work and the experience. We’ve worked hard to create a shop that feels welcoming and approachable, but also holds a high standard in creativity, quality, and service. We want people to feel comfortable the second they walk in, and we want the tattoo itself to hold up years from now. That mix of hospitality, craftsmanship, and strong identity is what sets us apart," he continued.
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Alex feels that being a part of the community matters. Southbound Tattoo and its artists have been involved in local events, fundraisers, downtown activities and other community efforts in Waxahachie. Alex added, "We support the schools and many city initiatives. I believe a good local business should do more than just operate in a town — it should contribute to it. We’re proud to be part of the energy, growth, and culture of this community."
Alex was asked if he had any advice for someone wanting to start a business, and he had a bit to say: " Have a clear vision, be ready to work harder than you think, and don’t cut corners on your standards. A lot of people are excited about starting something, but the real test is whether you can stay consistent when it gets difficult. Talent helps, but discipline, follow-through, and reputation are what keep a business alive. Build something you can stand behind."
Family has been a support and a meaningful part of building the Southbound business and brand. " Anyone who has built something from the ground up knows there’s a lot of sacrifice behind the scenes," Alex said. "Having family who believe in the vision, support the process, and contribute where needed makes a huge difference."
Southbound Tattoo is poised and ready for the growing Waxahachie/Ellis County community and looks forward to a bright future.
"I see Southbound Tattoo becoming even more established over the next five to ten years — not just growing in size, but growing in reputation and impact. As Ellis County continues to expand, I want us to keep pace by staying sharp, improving our systems, strengthening our team and continuing to deliver a high-level client experience. Growth is coming, but the goal is to meet it without losing the quality and identity that made people support us in the first place," Alex stated.
Southbound Tattoo is owned by Alex Freeman and is located at 602 S. Rogers St., Waxahachie. They may be reached by phone at (214) 903-7138 or through their website at www.southboundtattoo.com. They are open seven days a week – Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The public is invited to check them out on social media on Facebook: Southbound Tattoo and Instagram: Southbound Tattoo.
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Midlothian attorney John Hodges was clear when asked what motivated him as a business owner: "I got into this business to protect people from bullies," he said.
Opening his office in 2025, John feels that his military experience keeps him fighting when most people might back down.
From his downtown Midlothian office, located at 323 S. 9th St., John has pushed to build a business "To help injured people recover in a system that is slanted against them."
John said, "I chose Midlothian because there are not enough local lawyers who provide the services we do."
When asked about advice for someone who wants to start a business, he said simply, "Make it exist, you can make it perfect later."
John attributes the day-to-day office management and other assistance in his business to his wife, Heather. He also says, "We definitely see our staff growing to accommodate the rapid growth in Ellis County." For anyone needing information, Hodges Law may be reached at (972) 797-9969 or online at www.Hodges.law. They can also be found on Facebook.
2026 Star Awards Winning Businesses
* Denotes advertiser in this section
Top Accounting Firm/CPA
Yeldell, Wilson, Wood & Reeve, P.C. CPA
Air Conditioning/Heating
Williard Air Conditioning & Plumbing
Allergy Clinic
Allergy & Asthma Center at Waxahachie
Antique Shop
* Gingerbread Village
Apartment Community
* The Hamilton at Garden Valley
Appetizer
Cotton Patch Cafe
Asian Food
* Hibachio
Assisted Living Community
Adoring Care Assisted Living LLC
Auto Repair Shop
A&E Automotive
Auto/Home Glass Repair
Glass Doctor
Bakery
Katies Cakes Desserts
Bank
* Harmony Bank
Bar & Grill
* El Mexicano Grill
Barber Shop
Lucky’s Barber Shop
BBQ
Fingers To The Bone
Birthday Party Venue
* Kids Colesseum
Boutique
* The 1408 Boutique
Breakfast
Eggsquisite Cafe
Buffet
Cici’a Pizza
Business Lunch
* Roma’s
Italian Restaurant
Car Dealer (New)
Legacy Chevrolet
Car Dealer (Used)
Ennis Ford
Car Salesperson
Casey Gonzales
Waxahachie Autoplex
A local family serving the needs of local families. That's what Steve and Shelley Raney, owners of Synergy Roofing, are all about.
Just a visit with Shelley and you'll know that Waxahachie and the families Synergy Roofing serves are near and dear to her heart. "We love our hometown of Waxahachie and enjoy building lasting relationships with our customers. We are motivated by the opportunity to solve real problems for customers that make their lives easier. Knowing our work creates value keeps us energized," Shelley said.
The roofing industry is growing, but it is also becoming more complex. Severe weather events continue to drive reroofing demand. This creates steady work but also increases dependence on insurance processes, which can be slow or inconsistent. In response to that, Shelley says, "We continue to grow in the area where we work and live. Our reputation for exceptional customer service and customer satisfaction is our #1 goal. We aim to stay resilient and efficient in our processes to better serve our customers." Synergy Roofing is a family-run business, and that stands out by blending quality craftsmanship, reputation, and personal accountability in ways other companies can't match. "Creating our roofing company allowed us to put our skills to work close to home and make a positive impact where it matters most," added Shelley.
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Steve and Shelley Raney have deep ties in Waxahachie, with a five-generation history. They commented that being a part of the community means a lot to their family. "We’re grateful to support local youth groups, schools and charitable organizations through ongoing sponsorships," Shelley said. Their advice for someone wanting to start a business is simple, according to the Raney's, "A business that grows the strongest usually starts with a simple goal they can deliver every single time – do what you say you will do and do it well. When customers know exactly what to expect, it builds trust — and trust is what fuels referrals, repeat business, and long-term stability."
The family is truly an integral part of Synergy Roofing's operation. Steve and Shelley run the company together, and their son, Andrew, works alongside them both as a part of the management team.
Synergy Roofing has been operating in Waxahachie since 2009. They may be reached at (972) 935-5064 or through the website www.synergyroofing.com. Find them online: Facebook - Synergy Roofing and Instagram – roofingsynergy. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Car Wash/Detail Shop
Scarborough Car Wash
Carpet Cleaning & Restoration
* Compton’s Carpet Cleaning & Restoration
Caterer La Ti Dough
Catfish
Butter N Grace
CBD Shop
* Smokes N’ Edibles
Cell Phone/Electronics Repair
* Tru-Tech Cell Phone Repair
Chicken
Cotton Patch Cafe
Child Care Facility
* EverStar Academy of Discovery
Chiropractor
Waxahachie Chiropractor
Church
Stonegate Church
Cleaning Service
ALL-CLEAN
Coffee Shop
Fresh Market Coffee
College/Local
* Navarro College
Construction Company
Rae Rock Services
Credit Union Neighborhood Credit Union
Customer Service
* Synergy Roofing
Daiquiri
Omar’s Tacos & Bar
Dental Office
Just For Kids Dental
Dermatologist
Davis Dermatology
Dessert The Dessert Spot
Dirt Work/Excavation
* Rolling J Services
Dry Cleaner
Dry Clean Supercenter
Electrical Service
Cool Hand Electric
Employer
* Infinite Care Home Health
Harmony Bank is proud to be named Top Bank in Waxahachie — an honor that means so much because it comes from the very community we serve. As a true community bank, they are committed not only to their Waxahachie neighbors but also to the customers at their 11 additional locations across Dallas, Ellis, Navarro, and Kaufman counties.
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With a history spanning more than 100 years, Harmony Bank has remained focused on one simple promise: delivering the technology today’s customers expect while preserving the personal service only a local bank can provide. Whether serving Personal Banking customers, Mortgage clients, or local Business owners, they combine big-bank capabilities with small-bank attention. Their Waxahachie team comprises professionals who know this community because they live and work in it. Every decision at Harmony Bank is made locally, which allows them to respond quickly and thoughtfully. For small businesses, especially, timely decisions can make the difference in capturing new opportunities — and they are proud to provide the speed and accessibility they need. Buying a home is one of the most important financial decisions a family will ever make. The Mortgage team has earned all 5-star Google reviews because they walk alongside customers every step of the way, remaining just a phone call away throughout the process. And when you call 1-800-HARMONY during business hours, a real person answers the phone. No long, automated menus. No frustrating transfers. Just genuine, personal service. When you hear “community bank,” they truly mean your community. Deposits stay local, helping fund businesses, home loans, and growth right here in these neighborhoods. That local reinvestment strengthens Waxahachie and the surrounding communities they proudly serve. You’ll see Harmony Bank out and about supporting the events and organizations that make Waxahachie special, including the Gingerbread Trail Tour of Homes, the Governor's Small Business Summit, and the Waxahachie Education Foundation’s Kids Scholarships. They believe being a community partner means showing up, giving back, and investing in the future. They are honored by this recognition and look forward to continuing to serve Waxahachie with the personal attention, accessibility, and commitment that define Harmony Bank. Swing by a local branch or connect with their team — they would love to meet you. Harmony Bank is located at 104 Broadhead Road, Waxahachie. Visit them online at www.harmony.bank or call (972) 938-7575. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday.
Smokes N' Edibles owner, Waz, said, "We've been blessed to stay open for so long, even after the government attacking us from every direction. They are now banning all smokable hemp from Texas. I want to thank every client of ours who has shown us support from day one. They never gave up on us. We love you. Even after the constant battle of removing hemp from our shelves once a year because it was 'banned,' we fought through it to bring it back."
Waz said the motivation for everyday work comes from his children. "They keep me grounded to stay afloat so I can provide for them, and they never have to ask for anything, EVER!"
The goal for Smokes N' Edibles is to remain the number one shop in not just Ellis County, but all of Texas!
"Our business stands out mainly by the employment at the shops," Waz continued. "Our guys and gals do a terrific job at what they do. I couldn't ask for better people to work at Smokes N' Edibles."
Waz's story is a little different from those of many small business owners. "My journey started a bit differently than the norm. I didn't go to college. I was broke for a while, and life taught me some very valuable lessons," he stated. "I never took anything for granted. I never forgot what it's like to be in a powerless position.
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After you graduate from high school, life moves so fast. You lose track of time. You lose track of what you were supposed to become. This goes back to my babies; they brought all that reality back for me."
Waz credits his mother for the business location. "I chose Waxahachie because my mother showed it to me. It was her idea to begin with. Without her, I wouldn't be in the position that I'm in. She's my knight in shining armor."
When asked about advice on starting a business, Waz stated, "If anybody wants to start a business, they would tell you don't put all your eggs in one basket because that is for beginners.
Just don't forget what the late Kobe Bryant said, 'you can get more eggs'. Essentially, it means don't be scared to go all in. Because you can do it again and again. You have many chances. The only thing you don't have a chance at again is life itself."
Waz's mother is a part of Smokes N' Edibles, and he says she always will be. In something as basic as the business name, he stated, "We were going to be named Roll N' Smoke, but she asked if I had a better name because she believed there was something better than that. So, I started thinking, and after a week, it hit me: Smokes N' Edibles. From that moment, it took off to become what it is today. "I want to shout out to my brother Gihad," Waz added. "He helps me with the numbers; he's basically my accountant. A damn good one, too."
Smokes N' Edibles has multiple locations – two in Ellis County, 1037 US-287 Bypass, Suite E in Waxahachie – (214) 980-1623 and 505 I-35 South East Service Road, # 100 & 200 in Red Oak (469) 9053342. The third location is 4323 Lemmon Avenue in Dallas, (737) 334-2537. Find them online at X and Instagram.
Located in the heart of downtown Waxahachie, El Mexicano Grill has become a go-to destination for locals craving authentic Tex-Mex flavors in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Known for its cozy interior, friendly service, and lively bar scene, the restaurant appeals to families, couples, and groups alike. Whether stopping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a weekend dinner, guests can expect a casual yet energetic dining experience that reflects the spirit of North Texas hospitality.
The menu at El Mexicano Grill features a wide variety of classic Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes, from sizzling fajitas and enchiladas to hearty burritos and fresh breakfast options. The restaurant is particularly popular for its generous portions and fast service, making it a reliable choice for both dine-in meals and casual gatherings. A full-service bar enhances the experience, offering beer, wine, and a range of cocktails that pair perfectly with the bold, savory flavors of the cuisine.
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One of the standout features of El Mexicano Grill is its happy hour, which adds even more appeal for guests looking to unwind after a long day. While specific times may vary, the restaurant is known to offer both happy-hour drinks and food specials, making it an inviting spot for early evening meetups or casual nights out. Guests can typically enjoy discounted cocktails, beer, and small plates in a laid-back setting, often centered around the bar area where the atmosphere becomes especially social.
Margaritas are a highlight of the drink menu and a major draw for regulars. El Mexicano Grill offers a variety of margarita options, including classic lime served on the rocks or frozen, as well as fruit-flavored versions such as strawberry or mango—styles commonly found in TexMex establishments. Larger “grande” margaritas and premium versions made with top-shelf tequila are also popular choices, giving guests the option to tailor their drink to their taste and occasion. Reviews frequently mention the quality and flavor of the margaritas, with some guests even highlighting specialty variations like spicy or jalapeño-infused options.
Overall, El Mexicano Grill stands out as a reliable and enjoyable dining spot in Waxahachie. Its combination of flavorful food, a welcoming environment, and appealing drink specials— especially its margarita selection—makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re stopping by for happy hour or enjoying a full meal, it delivers a satisfying and distinctly Tex-Mex experience.
Ellis County is home to four locations:
El Mexicano Grill, 114 E. Franklin St., Waxahachie - 972-937-1191
El Mexicano Grill and Cantina #2, 1620 N. Hwy. 77, #800, Waxahachie - 214-980-1161
El Mexicano Grille, 219 W. Ennis Ave., Ennis - (972) 875-9008
El Mexicano Grill & Cantina Midlothian, 1000 E. Main St., #106, Midlothian - 214-817-8401
Personnel
Event Venue
The Graily
Eye Care Provider
Vision Source Waxahachie
Family Medical Care
Trinity Salem Family Health Clinic
Feed Store
Boyce Feed & Grain
Fencing Company
Mack Fencing & Construction Services
Fitness Center/Gym
FXB Fitness
Flooring Company
Southern Roots Remodel & Outdoors LLC
Florist
Flowers by Roberta
Funeral Home
* Wayne Boze Funeral Home
Furniture Store
Furniture by Sleep Quarters
Garage Door Repair Service
MINT Exteriors
Gutter Installation/Repair
Bison Built Gutters
Gutter Installation/Repair
Gutter Up
Hamburger
Pop’s Burger Stand
Happy Hour
* El Mexicano Grill
Health Food Store
* Ann’s Healthfood
Hearing Center Beltone
Home Builder
Sandlin Homes
Home Health Care
* Infinite Care Home Health
Home Inspector
Gregg Howdeshell Inspections
Hospice
Bristol Hospice
Hot Sauce
Omar’s Tacos & Bar
Hotel/Motel
* Comfort Inn & Suites
Massage
The old story is self-storage. The new story is Macho Self Storage. Located at 3467 N. Hwy. 77 in Waxahachie, the business's management team pushes to create a great experience for all our new and existing tenants.
The Waxahachie location opened in January 2021 and has become ingrained in the community by being as involved as possible within community programs and events.
The Macho Management team stated, "We like to think we are leaders in the self-storage industry. Our customer service makes us unique."
Macho Self Storage is a locally operated storage facility offering convenient and secure solutions for residents and businesses in the Waxahachie area. Located along North Highway 77, the facility provides easy access and a wide range of unit sizes to accommodate everything from small personal items to the contents of an entire household. Customers can choose between climate-controlled and standard units, making it a practical option for protecting belongings from Texas heat and humidity.
Security is a major focus, with features such as 24-hour video surveillance, electronic gated entry, and an on-site management team helping ensure peace of mind. The facility also emphasizes convenience, offering drive-up access, wide hallways, moving carts, and even complimentary use of a moving truck for new customers.
Known for its friendly service and competitive pricing, Macho Self Storage aims to provide a clean, hassle-free storage experience. With flexible rental options and modern amenities like online payments and contactless rentals, it stands out as a reliable choice for storage needs in Waxahachie.
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The Macho Self-Storage company has been in business for over 20 years and believes that by hiring professional managers equipped to handle the growth of the community, the business will be around for many more years to come. Macho Self Storage may be contacted at (972) 525-0686 or online at machostorage.com. They may also be found on Facebook, Instagram and X.
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RealAgentEstate
Paul Fritz has been serving Waxahachie as a Realtor since 2012. In 2023, he opened his own brokerage, Fritz Realty Group. Paul said, "I like knowing that my work truly loves and serves people during some of the biggest transitions of their lives. Love and Serve are at the center of everything we do at Fritz Realty Group. Real estate is never just about property to me. It is about people, families, and the weight of the decisions they carry, and how those decisions affect their future."
Fritz Realty Group is known for high engagement over high sales volume, leading with real integrity, and showing up with the knowledge and experience to help clients through important decisions.
"Beyond serving clients, one of my goals is to build a company where agents are encouraged to grow, sharpen their skills, and build meaningful businesses of their own, not just mine. I want them to stay here because they want to, not because they have to. And if they leave, I want them to succeed and have a positive memory of their time here,” Paul stated.
Fritz Realty Group is involved in local community support efforts like Waxahachie Care, Believing Restoration is Attainable and The Heights Ellis County Family Resources. In addition, the company assists ARBOR with charitable drives and sponsors two schools and theater arts programs at Life High School and Nelson University. "We believe strongly in loving and serving the communities where we live and work, and we try to make that visible through both our business and our personal involvement," Paul said. Paul believes everyone should be an entrepreneur. He said, "Know your why, solve real problems for people and do not cut corners on relationships or reputation. It’s hard but worth it."
Paul and his wife, Amy, started the firm together, and he asserts, "We would not be where we are today without her help. She plays a major role in shaping and growing our brand, creating educational and informational content for the audiences we serve, and providing custom marketing support for our agents. Her experience has been a huge asset to our business and to the ways we love and serve our clients, our agents, and our community."
Fritz Realty Group is located at 201 E. Main Street, #107 in Waxahachie. It is open Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m. Visit them online at fritzrealtygroup.com or on their social media channels: facebook/com/FritzRealtyGroup, instagram.com/fritzrealtygroup, youtube.com/@fritzrealtygroup, youtube.com/SeniorLivingNTX.
The Hamilton at Garden Valley is a modern 55+ active adult apartment community in Waxahachie, Texas, designed to provide residents with a comfortable, maintenance-free lifestyle paired with upscale amenities and a strong sense of community. Built with convenience and leisure in mind, this thoughtfully planned property offers one- and two-bedroom apartment homes that blend contemporary design with practical features for everyday living.
Inside each apartment, residents will find stylish finishes and functional layouts that prioritize comfort. Homes typically include stainless steel appliances, wood-style flooring, spacious walk-in closets, and washer/dryer connections, creating a clean, modern living space that is both attractive and easy to maintain. These in-unit features are complemented by open-concept kitchens and generous living areas, making each apartment feel bright and inviting.
Beyond the individual residences, the community amenities at The Hamilton at Garden Valley are a major highlight. Residents have access to a resort-style swimming pool, fitness center, and hot tub, supporting an active and wellness-focused lifestyle. Outdoor spaces include beautifully landscaped courtyards, picnic areas, grilling stations, and even features like a putting green and pickleball court, offering plenty of opportunities for recreation and social interaction.
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The community also emphasizes social engagement and convenience. A spacious clubhouse, resident lounge, and coffee bar with Wi-Fi create welcoming spaces to gather with neighbors or relax throughout the day. Planned social activities and events help foster a vibrant, connected atmosphere among residents. Additional features such as a library with a reading nook, media room, game room, and business center provide a variety of ways to stay entertained and productive.
Practical services and thoughtful touches further enhance daily life. The property offers controlled access gates, on-site management and maintenance, package services, and concierge-style amenities for added peace of mind. Pet-friendly features, including a dog park and pet washing station, make it an appealing choice for residents with pets.
Altogether, The Hamilton at Garden Valley stands out as a well-rounded senior living community that combines modern apartment living with resort-style amenities and a strong focus on comfort, convenience, and community engagement. Its blend of upscale features and active lifestyle offerings makes it an attractive option for adults seeking a relaxed yet socially vibrant place to call home in Waxahachie.
The only thing missing from The Hamilton at Garden Valley is you. For more information, visit www. hamiltonwaxahachie.com. The apartment community is conveniently located at 880 Garden Valley Pkwy., with easy access to Hwy. 287 and I-35. Also, close to shopping and dining. All the conveniences you want in one beautiful location.
Meeting Venue
Fresh Market Coffee
Mexican Food
Jalapénos Lemon Pepper
Mortgage Lending Company
Twin Tree Mortgage
Nail Salon M Salon
Nursing Home
Midtowne Meadows
OB/Gyn Advanced Women’s Healthcare
Orthodontist
Braces of Waxahachie
Orthopedic Doctor
Josh McSpadden, DO
AOA Orthopedic Specialists
*
Outdoor
Pawn
Waxahachie Pawn
Pediatrician
Dr. Mary Strength
Pediatric Health Care Associates
Pest Control Company
Cross Country Pest Control
Pet Boarding Service
Bent Hill Dog Co.
Pet Groomer
Ellis County Pet Resort
Pet Training Service
* A New Leash On Life
Photographer JD Ruiz Photography
Physical Therapy Clear Sky Rehabilitation
Pizza
Southern Roots Brewing Co.
Place for a Cold Beer
Railport Brewing Company
Place for an Oil Change
Valvoline Express Care
Place for Date Night
* D Latin Cuisine
Place to Hang Out with Friends Bloom & Pour
Plumbing Service
* Mr. Rooter
Pool Service
Riverbend Sandler South
Portable Buildings
Waxahachie Storage Shed Builders
Real Estate Agent
*Jordan Borders
Century 21 Judge Fite
Real Estate Agen
*Paul Fritz
Fritz Realty Group
Real Estate Firm
Keller Williams Realty Ellis County
Remodeling/Repair
Rae Rock Services
Resale/Thrift Shop
*Love Your Neighbor Thrift Shop
Restaurant
*D Latin Cuisine
Roofing Company
*Synergy Roofing
RV Park
Northside RV Resort
Salon
Neon Moon Salon
Seafood Restaurant
Wilson’s Seafood & Grill
Smoothie/Energy Drink Shop
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Steak
Ruston Cattle Company
Taco Taco Casa
Tanning Salon
Tan Ur Hyde
Tattoo Shop
*Southbound Tattoo
Therapist
*Peyton Rigsby
Infinite Care Home Health
Tire Shop
*Tire Town
Travel Agent
*Magic Destinations Travel
Tree Service
Maverick Tree Service
Walk-In/Urgent Care
Altus Emergency
Veterinary Clinic
*A.C.T.S. Veterinary Care
Window Installation/Repair
1-Up Windows & Glass
Thank you
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Community involvement is at the center of the business model for EverStar Academy of Discovery in Waxahachie. Originally opened in 2016 as Imagine Nation Learning Center, the business has committed to continued growth and commitment to innovation in childhood education. Charles and Tracy Stidham said, "What motivates us most is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact during the most important years of a child’s development. Knowing that we are helping shape confident, curious, and capable individuals, while also supporting families, is incredibly fulfilling. Every day, we are driven by the responsibility and privilege of nurturing young minds and creating a foundation for lifelong learning."
During their time in business, the Stidhams have seen a strong shift toward more hands-on, child-led learning, as well as an increased focus on social-emotional development and real-world experiences. Families are looking for more than just childcare; they want meaningful, enriching environments where their children can truly thrive.
Now that the business has become EverStar, their goal is to continue to evolve and become known as an education program known for innovation, quality, and community impact. "We aim to expand our offerings, enhance our curriculum, and create even more opportunities for children to learn through exploration and discovery. Ultimately, our mission is to provide an environment where every child feels confident, inspired, and excited to learn," the Stidhams added.
When asked about what makes this business unique, the Stidhams had an easy answer: "What sets EverStar apart is our intentional approach to learning. We focus on the whole child, academically, socially, and emotionally, through hands-on experiences, inquiry-based learning, and real-world exploration. Our Reggio-inspired philosophy encourages children to take an active role in their learning, fostering creativity, independence, and confidence. Combined with a nurturing environment and a passionate team, we create a space where children don’t just learn—they truly thrive."
The owners believe that with the growth Waxahachie has, and is currently experiencing, along with the family-oriented community and sense of support, this is the perfect place for their business to continue to operate. In fact, the Stidhams said, "We chose this location because of the opportunity to serve families in an area that values education, growth, and community involvement. As the area continues to expand, we are proud to be part of that growth and to support local families with high-quality early education."
Over the next five to ten years, EverStar is positioned to continue to grow as a recognized leader in early childhood education by expanding both the programs and, potentially, locations to serve more families within the community and beyond. "To keep pace with that growth, we are committed to staying innovative—continuously enhancing our curriculum, investing in our team, and adapting to evolving educational trends. Our focus will always remain on providing a high-quality, enriching experience where every child feels supported, inspired, and empowered to thrive," continued the Stidhams. They went on to say, "Family plays an important role in our business. Their support, encouragement, and involvement have been instrumental in our growth. Whether through behind-the-scenes support or day-to-day operations, their contributions help us maintain the strong foundation and values that define our program."
EverStar Academy of Discovery is located at 1401 Ferris Avenue in Waxahachie. The hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 6 a.m.- 6:30 p.m. For more information, interested families may call (972) 923-2391 or visit online at everstaracademy. com. The business can also be found on social media at: facebook.com/everstaracademy or instagram.com/everstaracademy.
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We are incredibly honored to be named the Star Award Winner for Top Childcare Center. We are so grateful to our families and community for your continued trust, support, and belief in what we do each and every day. Many of you have known us as Imagine Nation Learning Center, and we are excited to officially introduce our new name: EverStar Academy of Discovery
We chose the name EverStar because we believe every child deserves to feel valued, seen, and celebrated—like a star—every single day. At EverStar, children are inspired to explore, create, build, question, and discover. Our program has expanded to include more hands-on, STEM-based learning, interactive experiences, and real-world opportunities that nurture confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Thank you for believing in us. Thank you for trusting us. Thank you for helping us shine.
TOP Therapist, Employer Home Health
Infinite Care Home Health, Inc. is a trusted provider of in-home medical and personal care services serving Midlothian and the surrounding North Texas communities. Established as a licensed home health agency, the organization focuses on delivering high-quality, compassionate care to patients in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes.
Opening on Oct. 1, 2017, Infinite Care Home Health, located at 107 S. 4th Street in Midlothian, is in the business of helping patients and providing a great work environment.
Matthew Darnall and Drew Osborne see a home health business that is able to care for patients in their own home which goes above and beyond the expected threshold of care.
The agency offers a wide range of services designed to support individuals recovering from illness, surgery, or managing chronic conditions. Skilled nursing care is a cornerstone of their services, with licensed professionals providing medication management, wound care, and overall health monitoring. In addition, patients can benefit from specialized therapies such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, all tailored to promote recovery and independence. Beyond medical care, Infinite Care Home Health also emphasizes personalized support for daily living. Their caregivers assist with tasks such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and mobility, helping patients maintain dignity and quality of life at home. The agency’s approach is centered on individualized care plans, ensuring each patient receives attention that meets their unique needs and health goals.
With a fourteen-year background in physical therapy, Darnall looks to the future and says, “As long as I can have the staff that provides exceptional care, we will be able to take on increased patients.” He attributes their success to a great location and growing community, as well as their involvement in the community. In addition to sponsoring local schools and sports programs, they also help by giving back to senior events.
“My advice to anyone wanting to open a business?” says Darnall, “ Expect failures and keep pursuing your goals.” Darnall’s wife, Lisset, is the administrator, and his sister-in-law, Cindy Shreve, is the director of nurses.
A key aspect of their mission is helping patients transition smoothly from hospitals or rehabilitation facilities back to their homes. By coordinating with physicians and providing ongoing monitoring, the team works to reduce hospital readmissions and improve long-term health outcomes. They also offer disease management services for conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and neurological disorders, providing education and support for both patients and families.
Infinite Care Home Health is also known for its commitment to quality and ethical care, emphasizing compassion, respect, and professionalism in every interaction. With Medicare and many insurance plans accepted, their services are accessible to a wide range of patients.
Overall, Infinite Care Home Health stands out in Midlothian as a reliable and patient-focused provider, dedicated to improving lives through skilled, personalized, and compassionate in-home healthcare.
Darnall attributes the uniqueness of their business to “The caring employees that see the patients.”
Anyone wanting additional information about Infinite Care Home Health can find it online at www.infinite-care.com or on Facebook. The business may also be reached at (972) 938-8500.
Deciding how one spends their life isn' t always easy. As parents, we hoped Peyton would grow up happy and give back to society in meaningful ways We supported her without forcing a direction, though she sometimes felt her path was pre-determined But God planted a deep seed of caregiving in her heart from a young age Around six or seven, we saw her therapist 's spirit shine After a tough day of whiplash treatments left me in relentless neck pain, Peyton set up a little chair and had me "pedal" her bike with my hands, believing it would help me heal Randy and I owned Rigby/Rehabilitation Inc , a therapy contracting company from 2008-2021 , so having both parents involved in healthcare, your kids either hated it or loved it . Peyton dove in we nudged her gently at working age, where she handled quality assurance on therapist notes, invoiced agencies, and tagged along during patient visits. These experiences paved the way for her to receive an associate's degree in 2023 from Navarro College's PTA program.
Peyton truly loves her calling. We believe God led her here so she could treat Randy, her father, in 2024 after his Glioblastoma diagnosis; he wouldn' t listen to anyone else, but her humble spirit won him over, giving him a front-row seat to her gift before he passed on June 28, 2025. Today, she pours her heart into the residents of Ellis County as a physical therapist at Infinite Care Home Health, cherishing her team. Randy's smiling down from heaven, and I still wipe away tears of pride watching her in action Peyton Riley Rigsby, God knows exactly what He's doing with you you're so much more than just Dr Rigsby's daughter We love you dearly
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Infinite Care Home Health is beyond honored to have received two prestigious recognitions in Ellis County: Top Employer and Top Home Health Company.
As CEO, I, Matthew Darnall , along with my fellow business owners, Drew Osborne and Lisset Darnall , are deeply humbled and profoundly grateful for this honor from our community Since we took over the business on October 1 , 2017, our team has worked tirelessly to grow Infinite Care into a trusted name across Ellis County, Texas and beyond. These awards are a testament to the unwavering commitment of every nurse, therapist , caregiver, and staff member who pours their heart into serving our patients and families.
Our mission has always been clear: to cultivate a family-like work environment rooted in Christian values, where our team members feel supported, valued, and truly at home as they serve others. By prioritizing a joyful , faith-centered workplace, we empower our staff to deliver the highest quality patient care possible. Thank you to our incredible team, our patients, and our community for making this possible we are honored to serve you.
