Whether giving new playwrights a stage during SparkFest or letting comedians work on new material in their popular standup comic residencies, Amphibian Stage helps us view the world through fresh eyes. Madeworthy talked with Jay Duffer, Amphibian’s Artistic Director. [Editor’s note: This article was edited for space in the magazine, but Jay’s answers are so good that we wanted to run the whole thing on our website.]

Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

Madeworthy: Congratulations on the 25th season! Tell us a little about how Amphibian Stage came to be.

Jay Duffer: Amphibian Stage was founded in 2000 by three TCU graduates. Kathleen Culebro, the Founding Artistic Director, and her producing partners, Carman Lacivita and Jonathan Fielding, envisioned a theatre company providing bold and innovative work to the DFW metroplex and adding another option to the theatre landscape in Fort Worth for theatergoers. The fledgling company used spaces donated by TCU in the early years before moving to the Fort Worth Arts Center. In 2012, the company was among the first businesses to plant its roots in the now vibrant South Main Street in Fort Worth’s near Southside. Since its founding, the theatre company has garnered high praise and recognition locally and beyond.

MW: What was the first production at Amphibian Stage?

JD: I believe it was Landford Wilson’s Burn This.

Jay Duffer and Elizabeth Kensek
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

MW: Last year, founding director Kathleen Culebro stepped down, leaving you as the sole artistic director, and Elizabeth Kensek joined as managing director. Will these changes affect what playgoers have come to know and love about Amphibian?

JD: In short, no. I believe the mission and vision of the organization are solid, and its unique trajectory has been set since its inception. Creativity, innovation, and engagement are at the core of what we do. We still have a deep committment to new works as well as presenting plays that are lesser known/have not had productions in the DFW area. When asked what separates us from all the other theatres, I usually respond, “The work we do, you will not find anywhere else in North Texas.”   This is not always the case, but we will continue to intentionally seek out those excellent stories and storytellers needing a home for a supportive, creative process. Our programming will continue to inspire and challenge and hopefully impact how we view the world around us.

“The Amazing, Fabulous, and Spectacular Untruths of Juan Garcia”
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

MW: Amphibian Stage has always championed new playwrights without relying on a stable of “safe” productions. To be blunt, how is that possible?

JD: Great question! And I have a lot to say in response. Several things attribute, I think. There is a spirit of adventure in our theatergoers. If you attend an Amphibian Stage production, you are coming knowing that the work “gets into trouble”. Good trouble. That is to say, the work not only entertains but also takes smart risks. It’s not predictable. The work surprises, delights, and challenges. I also feel like those who donate, be it individual donors, foundations, or grants, invest in our mission of supporting such unique work. We know there is a natural draw to those stories that have huge commercial success, for example, Steel Magnolias or A Christmas Carol, but that’s not our vibe. There’s nothing wrong with such commercial successes. These works are done everywhere and should be. We simply present the alternative. Amazingly, we have the support and resources to take such risks. We offer, if you will, other culinary delights to the meat and potatoes diet. By the way, this has perplexed me throughout my whole career from the consumer/patron’s point of view. People flock to see the newest concert and will pay big time to sit on that front row, or they will be first in line to catch that new movie, but when it comes to theatre, the tried and true and familiar seems to take precedence in purchasing habits. So getting people to come see new work – and be excited about it – is a necessary challenge for us. We wear the badge proudly, and we take on the challenge basically one patron at a time. If we can get them here, they always love it and come back for more.

SparkFest: “Barren”
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

MW: What is SparkFest? Could you give us a sneak peek at SparkFest 2025?

JD: SparkFest is an annual festival centered around the simple idea that a spark of creativity can lead to immeasurable results. It is a 10-12 day festival developing new works from emerging and established playwrights from across the country, there is a high-stakes acting competition with awards in the thousands (ala The Cliburn), moving story-telling, lively and entertaining music events, comedy shows, exhibits, parties, etc. Every year, the festival uplifts and celebrates a specific community within the wide swath of the American people. Last year, we celebrated the AAPI Community, and this year, we are thrilled to celebrate the Native and Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (North America) and the Hawaiian Islands. The festival brings in more than 65 artists from around the country every year and is packed with highly entertaining events that our patrons and community have come to expect. This year’s dates are June 13-22. It feels like a 10-day party. Oh, and we offer our popular wine slushies only during this festival. Come get out of the summer heat and enjoy the Spark!

MW: A lot of us only know standup comedians via their specials on various streaming services. Your standup residencies offer both upcoming and established comedians an audience as they work out new jokes and routines. Can you tell me a little more about these evenings?

JD: Yes, we are not a comedy club. Let’s make that distinction clear.   The comic residency aligns with our core mission of supporting and developing new work. There was no standard for developing new comedy other than the comedian going from club to club and working the material out on their own. We offer a place for that development to happen over the course of two to three nights. I know nothing like this offered anywhere else in the country. Our North Texas audiences love being a part of that process. They know they are hearing jokes for the first time, and some comedians even stop to get audience feedback. Every comedian is different, so each experience is unique. Our audiences are supportive and highly entertained. So far, we have had the pleasure of hosting 2 Saturday Night Live cast members, Sasheer Zamata and Melissa Villasenor, in addition to Phoebe Robinson (she has visited twice to sold-out performances), Baron Vaughan, River Butcher, Aparna Nancherla, Chris Laker and 2024 brought in Cat Cohen to rave reviews and packed houses.

SparkFest 2024 – This Is My Story
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

MW: I know our readers (many of whom are parents of high school students) would love to know more about your summer intern program.

JD: We often offer internships to high schoolers. We have created concentrated experiences for high schoolers to get hands-on training in sound, lighting, set building, producing, community outreach, etc. Information about these opportunities can be found on our website on the community outreach page. Internships can also be in the fall or spring, not just the summer. This year’s internship involves working with the producing team on SparkFest 25. The submission process has closed on that opportunity. However, we do have another opportunity that will be posted for a possible Sound Intern/Apprentice coming up in the fall. I encourage parents to keep checking the website for updates. Because we are a small organization, each experience is different and can be tailored to the student’s needs. Encouraging the young artist in training is a privilege for us and is paramount as we pass the torch of craft and knowledge to the next generation. It is an investment in the student, and should they stay in Fort Worth, it is an investment in future designers/actors/theatre makers ready to share their talents with our community.

MW: National Theatre Live offers viewers access to the productions of Britain’s National Theatre. How did Amphibian become Fort Worth’s way to view NT Live productions?

JD: I’m so sorry. I don’t know it’s genesis. And I should! So, I’m guessing here. I know Kathleen wanted to bring even more options to our Phib audiences. The National Theatre in London is a gem among the global theatre community. We have an incredibly generous donor (who wishes to remain anonymous) who supports the program. The Modern is an amazing partner in this endeavor, and we are presenting the screenings. The many various productions are simply awe-inspiring. So, it was a natural fit in the theatre’s progression. It also gives us the opportunity for exposure to The Modern members and those who visit the museum. You don’t need to purchase a flight to hop across the pond. You can see high-quality productions for some of the lowest discounts we offer. Wins all around for us and for our patrons.

“Rooted”
Photo courtesy of Amphibian Stage

MW: “Rift, or White Lies” will be about to premiere when this issue goes to press. Can you tell us about the rest of the 25th season?

JD: It’s stellar! As Artistic Director, I want to say that I’m particularly proud of this year’s selection of shows. “Rift” is a gripping masterpiece of writing: taut, compelling, and complex. I’m certain the play has a long and successful future ahead of it. And I think our patrons will say, “We saw Rift at Amphibian Stage BEFORE it went to…greater and bigger places.”  We have cast two incredible actors (plus an amazing understudy) and are bringing in our A-team of designers and director for this one. The best thing to know about this show is that the actors will alternate roles every performance. So, you can see it twice and see an entirely different interpretation of the character. “The Heart Sellers” moved me tremendously when I first read it. It is funny and heartwarming, but what checks the box for Amphibian Stage is that it is uniquely focused on the budding relationship between these two strangers who find incredible solace as they experience great loneliness after immigrating to the U.S. “The Birds” is a most interesting moral fable, if you will. Yes, there are some good Halloween chills and thrills, and the tension in the script is palpable, but what McPherson has beautifully and sometimes poetically penned is more terrifying than Hitchcock’s film, in my opinion, because the true sense of horror in this story is not the inexplicable attack of the birds on humankind; but the capability of seemingly decent humans to choose evil over good.

MW: What does the future hold for Amphibian Stage?

JD: I hope to continue the dream that Kathleen began 25 years ago. This means we remain committed to bringing the highest quality, innovative, and engaging live theatre to Fort Worth. It also means that Amphibian Stage remains relevant and engaged, not just in our own community but also in the national theatre scene. Yes, some programming might adjust or evolve. I am excited about some community programs in the early stages of development (hopefully, we will have more to share about these opportunities later this year or early 2026). But, overall, I do not wish to reinvent the wheel here. If anything, I’m doubling down. I remain committed to bringing our audiences experiences that will inspire them over and over again. I love our little corner of the world at the intersection of S. Main and Vickery. From here, the truly amazing staff (I’m so honored to work with these dedicated and talented individuals) and I can impact our immediate community by providing them with art and experiences that are as necessary to their well-being as a deep invigorating break, that deeply satisfy their desire for creative interactions and that can cause profound tremors in the soul. We can entertain, yes, but we also can create a transformative experience for our patrons. That is a north star worthy for the journey ahead. And, if we are doing our jobs right and well, it has a ripple effect beyond just Fort Worth.

The post Made in Fort Worth: Amphibian Stage first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

“But wait,” I hear you say. “It’s only March.” Sure. It’s only March. But spring break is in TWO WEEKS, and after that comes SUMMER. Which means we need to find something to keep the Little Darlings from killing each other STAT.

Luckily for all of us, we have the perfect solution. Introducing the 2025 Tanglewood Moms Summer Camp Guide!

Whether it is a sleepaway camp or a day camp close to home, summer camp can be an important part of a child’s physical and mental development. A few years ago, the American Camp Association did a study on the value of summer camp. The study showed marked growth in campers’ independence, self-confidence, and self-assuredness. Ninety-three percent of campers reported that camp allowed them to become friends with people who are from different backgrounds. Seventy-four percent of campers reported that they did things that they were afraid to do at first. Seventy percent of parents reported that their child gained self-confidence at camp.

Camp can expand a child’s horizons in ways that school, with its heavy emphasis on test results, cannot. Whether it’s doing a ballet intensive, building a robot, learning a new sport, or putting on a play, camp allows children to focus on something they love or learn something entirely new.

Perhaps most importantly, camp allows children to just be children. Yes, there are expectations placed on them at camp. They have to learn to work with strangers and resolve minor conflicts that may arise. They have to learn that their every want will not be accommodated. But without the pressure of grades and the expectations of family, teachers, and peer groups, campers are free to simply live and soak up every adventure and learning opportunity. Simply put, they can stop being students and simply enjoy being kids.

There are many wonderful possibilities for your child this summer in Fort Worth. No matter what it is that makes your kiddo smile, they can do it here. We hope that this will be a comprehensive list of summer camp options in Fort Worth for you to consult from year to year. We’ve organized our index to separate camps by age as well as theme for easy navigation. Many of our partners have generously sponsored ads with full details about the camps they offer. If you’d like to learn more about advertising with us, please email tanglewoodmoms@gmail.com.

The post Unplug, Explore, and Grow: 2025’s Summer Camp Guide Is Here! first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

OPEN STREETS IS:

• Non-motorized rolling fun on bicycles, skateboards, roller skates & scooters.

• Healthy ways to get moving such as fitness, martial arts, yoga, pilates, obstacle courses, bike safety training, breakdancing, etc.

• Environmental advocacy to ensure a healthy sustainable neighborhood.

• FREE family-friendly fun from more than 100 activity providers. Learn how you can get involved below!

• Locally-made products offered by market collectives featuring handmade items by local artisans.

• A community play-day dedicated to neighborly interaction, healthy activity, and complete streets awareness.

Photo courtesy of Near Southside, Inc.

But it’s also important to remember,

• Open Streets is NOT dedicated to sales and promotions, but does include some special markets where products that are locally made do participate as vendors.

• Open Streets is NOT a music festival, art fair, or beer bash. Open Streets instead brings large crowds to play, learn, and engage with our Near Southside community and retail storefronts.

Photo courtesy of Near Southside, Inc.

The event is an expression of the Near Southside’s community spirit in every way: local businesses set up activities along the route; neighborhood residents help spread the word; and dozens of community partners take ownership of key planning details such as promotions, activities, temporary public art projects, pet adoptions, bike safety courses, and much more. So, mark your calendar:

SATURDAY, APRIL 26 FROM NOON – 6 P.M.

OPEN STREETS is now accepting applications for activity providers, food vendors, market vendors, and volunteers! If you’re interested in joining in the fun, go to openstreetsfortworth.org for information on how to register.

The post OPEN STREETS Is Back! first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Alright, it’s not lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you, but it is December in the Fort, and that means fun! There’s so much to do that we had a hard time narrowing down the list, so you can rest assured that these are some really great things to do with your family and friends. Make sure to bookmark this post so you can refer to it all month long!

Day With(out) Art 2024
December 5
The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

The Modern presents Red Reminds Me… a program that reflects the emotional spectrum of living with AIDS in 2024. It features new works by numerous artists, and it reminds us that AIDS is not over.

30^th Annual Home for the Holidays Gala
December 6
Fort Worth Club

Help Presbyterian Night Shelter bring families home for the holidays. Enjoy dinner, dancing, a silent and a live auction, raffles, and more as you help our neighbors in Fort Worth.

A Winter’s Cabaret: An Evening with Mick Lynch
December 6-7
Amphibian Stage

Enjoy an intimate evening of music and storytelling with Mick Lynch. No matter how the winds howl and the snow blows, it will be a cozy winter’s evening inside!

Holidays with the UNT One O’Clock Lab Band
December 7
Bass Performance Hall

Give your holidays a jazzy kick with the Grammy-nominated One O’Clock Lab Band. Enjoy an evening of jazz in the intimate McDavid Studio and start your holidays off right.

Auntie Explains X-Mas
December 6-15
W.E. Scott Theater at Arts Fort Worth

Written by Jubilee Theatre’s Founding Artistic Director Rudy Eastman, Auntie Explains X-Mas is a story of family and Christmas, memories and love.

Holiday Pickle Party
December 7
Best Maid Pickle Emporium

Forget the cookies – Santa wants PICKLES! Meet Santa, enjoy pickle tastings, pickle games, and all sorts of pickle-themed fun for the whole family.

Merry Members
December 7
The Amon Carter Museum of American Art

Join Santa and Mrs. Claus as they make holiday-themed arts and crafts, tour the galleries, and enjoy milk and cookies at the Carter. Be sure to join the Carter as this joyful gathering is for members only.

40^th Annual Candlelight Christmas in Ryan Place
December 7
Ryan Place

Since 1984, Ryan Place has opened its doors to the public. Tour five beautiful homes as well as the historic Daggett Elementary which has been dressed up for the holidays.

35^th Annual Margarita Ball
December 7
Worthington Hotel

There’s more to the Margarita Ball than just a great party. When you attend, not only will you enjoy the casino while sipping margaritas before dancing the night away, you will support Children’s Charities of Fort Worth while doing it.

One Millionth Dumpling/Second Anniversary
December 8
Hao’s Grocery & Café

Who doesn’t love dumplings? Celebrate two years of Hao’s Grocery with music, local celebs, and of course, DUMPLINGS.

BIG PHOTO Adult Studio
December 11 & 18, January 8,15,22, & 29
The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

Explore the art of photography and the special exhibition Diaries of Home with professional artists.

Turnpike Troubadours
December 12 & 13
Billy Bob’s Texas

Enjoy an evening of country roots rock at Billy Bob’s with the Grand Old Men of the genre.

Wandering Roots’ 7^th Annual Sip & Shop at the Garden
December 14
Fort Worth Botanic Garden

Finish your holiday shopping in the Garden. Browse more than 50 local artists and vendors, meet Cowboy Santa, enjoy food and face painting and a kids’ craft zone while making sure everyone on your list is taken care of!

Second Saturday: The Art of Still Lifes with the Welman Project
December 14
The Kimbell Art Museum

Explore the art of still lifes with the creatives of the Welman Project and enjoy the special exhibition Dutch Art in a Global Age: Masterpieces from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

Fairmount Festivus 2024!
December 14
Fairmount

It’s Festivus for the rest of us! Explore the historic Fairmount district. Enjoy music, lights, special performances, food and drinks, and more while you support One Safe Place.

Winter Market and Snowflake Station
December 15
SiNaCa Studios

If you still have people to shop for, get yourself over to SiNaCa and browse through completely unique, handmade, and local crafts, gifts, and artisanal products.

Make & Take: Decorate Sugar Cookies for the Holidays
December 19
Central Market Cooking School

Learn how to make holiday sugar cookies – roll out the dough, use holiday-themed cutters, and then learn how to pipe beautiful icing accents. For ages seven and up.

Pentatonix: Hallelujah! It’s a Christmas Tour
December 21
Dickies Arena

Local heroes Pentatonix return to Fort Worth to celebrate the holidays with their signature a cappella magic.

Toadies
December 28
Billy Bob’s Texas

Get your flannel out! Fort Worth’s grunge legends are coming to play at Billy Bob’s the Saturday after Christmas.

Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland
December 28
Will Rogers Auditorium

Enjoy awe-inspiring aerial feats and astounding acrobatics in the all-new Holiday Wonderland from Cirque Musica.

Dim Sum Favorites
December 31
Central Market Cooking School

Dim sum is a variety of small plates that make a delicious meal for the table. Learn to make traditional Cantonese dim sum. Ages 18 and up.

New Years Eve celebration background. Toast with fireworks and champagne at midnight

And finally, here’s a round up of some of the best ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the Fort!

• New Year’s Eve Open Mic at the Dock Bookshop
• Billy Bob’s Texas’ New Year’s Eve Party Featuring Gary Allen
• The NYE Masquerade Ball at Bar Louie
• Cowtown Rhinestone Rodeo at Kimpton Harper Hotel
• New Year’s Eve Ring-a-Ding at Scat Jazz Lounge
• Dexter and the Moonrocks at Rusty Nickel Icehouse

The post Just Hear Those Sleigh Bells Ringing in the Fort first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Ellerbe hung on and powered through the lockdown and is now considered one of the “old-guard” restaurants in Fort Worth. One of the first local restaurants founded on a farm-to-table ethos, Ellerbe has remained true to its roots. Each week, you can find chef and co-owner Molly McCook surveying that week’s offerings at the farmer’s market. Few restaurants tweak their menu weekly based on what’s fresh and available, but Ellerbe does. According to front-of-house manager and co-owner Richard King, “When we started Ellerbe, we picked a concept – farm-to-table – and we have stayed loyal to that.”

Sourcing as many of their ingredients as possible from local farmers and ranchers has yielded not only long-standing partnerships with their sources but a menu that, while ever-changing, has stood the test of time. However, record inflation, rising costs across every industry, and increased labor costs are once again creating a stress test for independent restauranteurs. Fine dining and farm-to-table concepts are suffering more than their chain brethren. Their costs are already high simply because they are sourcing the best ingredients they can find instead of purchasing in bulk.

Photo courtesy of Ellerbe Fine Foods

Rising costs are now a fact of life for Ellebre and other fine dining establishments. King says, “We don’t want to change our philosophy just to affect the bottom line. I think there’s a misperception that Ellerbe is expensive, but we have always been one of the best values in Fort Worth. We have tried to hold strong on our prices, and I think we’ve done pretty well. While we have had to increase [our prices], we feel like we’re still very competitive.”

While Ellerbe has remained staunchly loyal to its farm-to-table philosophy, they have made changes that have allowed them to expand their offerings. In 2020 and 2021, they undertook a major remodel that included the installation of a full bar. Heretofore, Ellerbe had been a mostly wine and beer establishment and was particularly well known for its expertly curated wine cellar. The new bar has opened new doors for Ellerbe and its patrons. Along with the possibility of a cocktail before dinner, Ellerbe has developed a seasonal craft mocktail menu that has been a smashing success.

Photo courtesy of Ellerbe Fine Foods

“People, especially younger people, are becoming more health conscious, which is great. That has helped foster our mocktail program,” said King. “Our customers have challenged us to get creative with it, and it’s really been a lot of fun.”  While outstanding wine events have been a staple at Ellerbe for years, they introduced a “summer sipping series” that is a master class in spirits education. Ellerbe brings in an expert who teaches attendees about a particular spirit. Whether it’s vodka or bourbon, scotch or gin, guests learn everything about how that spirit is made, its history, and what to mix or pair it with. The sipping series will resume in January.

Evolution is a must. The alternative is entropy and, ultimately, extinction. While Ellerbe has evolved, it has always remained true to itself. “The development is constant,” said King. “We have put a lot of money back into the restaurant by investing in strong leadership and top talent. The key has been staying loyal to our philosophy. In fact, we are more farm-to-table than we’ve ever been. Molly is often the only chef at the farmer’s market. She is dedicated to constantly bringing new ideas and fresh ingredients. Not a lot of restaurants can do that or even want to do that. We’re proud of that.”

Fifteen years is a long time for a successful restaurant to remain successful. Most don’t make it that long. What was true in 2010 when Bon Appetit made its proclamation is still true today. Through a tenacious dedication to hard work, a love of great food and wine, and a desire to provide a singular dining experience to its guests, Ellerbe Fine Foods remains one of the best restaurants in America.

Photo courtesy of Ellerbe Fine Foods

The post The Evolution of Ellerbe Fine Foods first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

“Cheers to my predecessor, Robyn Davis, for her grace and encouragement throughout our purchase! We have quite the story to tell about two women coming together – basically over a handshake – to make this transition smooth while ensuring continuity of business,” shared Deanna Stuart, new owner of WineHaus. “This is a family venture for my adult children and myself. I live, work and do life in the Near Southside of Fort Worth and look forward to deepening relationships in the community as well as building new partnerships with other local businesses.”

photo credit: Troy Sonefeld

Purchased by Robyn Davis from founder Lindsey Crawford in December 2020, the local wine bar will continue to support neighborhood residents and workers with an expanded light bite menu, added beer selections and new non-alcoholic drinks.

The popular patio will reflect Deanna’s green thumb with perennial gardens, providing a beautiful backdrop for increased performances by local musicians. Live jazz and food trucks will continue every Friday evening from 7 to 10 p.m., along with an enhanced private event space upstairs with seating up to 50 people upstairs.

Located at 1628 Park Place in Fort Worth, the 3,000-square-foot space is owned by John E. Quarles Lumber Company. WineHaus has 6 employees and is open Tuesday through Thursday from 3:30 to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 3:30 to 11 p.m.

The post New Owner for Fort Worth’s Winehaus first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Says Leon of his intentionality behind this tour, “I wanted to bring the magic and connection that made this record to this tour, so I felt it was important to pick the right rooms to play. I’ll be performing at intimate theaters this run with my incredible band. These are listening rooms—beautiful stages that truly showcase the music and allow me to get back to analog instrumentation. Plus,I’ve really missed playing guitar. I’ve got my brothers, Hermanos Gutiérrez, supporting me on tour as well. The tour starts in Austin and ends with a truly epic night in Fort Worth—aka Panther City—joined by my friend and Texas legend, Charley Crockett. Can’t wait to play this record for y’all live! Hope to see you out there.”

photo credit: Jack Bool

Presales start on Tuesday, August 20, and fans can sign up here to purchase tickets early.  Tickets go on sale to the public on Friday, August 23, at 10AM Local Time via Ticketmaster. For more information on Leon Bridges: The Leon Tour, please visit www.theleontour.com. Leon is excited to share that $1 from every ticket sold will go directly to his charity, The Big Good. For more information on The Big Good, please visit www.thebiggood.org. Hermanos Gutiérrez will support Leon on all dates, with Charley Crockett serving as direct support in Fort Worth.

Leon is available to pre-order and pre-save now HERE. The highly anticipated release notably marks Leon’s first album in three years and is heralded with his new single, “Peaceful Place.” Listen HERE. Filmed in Leon’s own peaceful place, the outskirts of Mexico City, the official video gives a candid look at the recording of the album, showcasing Leon’s explorations as he finds inspiration in the culture with his newfound state of mind that no one can takeaway. Watch HERE.

photo credit: Jack Bool

Recorded and produced by Ian Fitchuk (Kacey Musgraves, Maggie Rogers) at El Desierto on the outskirts of Mexico City with co-production from Daniel Tashian (Kacey Musgraves) in Nashville, Leon features 13 handcrafted tracks spotlighting Leon’s signature storytelling and organic genre alchemy. Leon unfolds as his most poignant, powerful, and personal body of work to date as the man himself takes you through the streets he knows best,the things he holds dearest, and the memories of the people and place that shaped him. This record is unmistakably Leon.

The post Leon Bridges Announces Homecoming Show at Dickies Arena first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Elected officials, business leaders and construction teams were on hand for the Topping Out as the highest structural steel beam was hoisted into place with the traditional fir tree riding on it. Speakers at the ceremony included Public Events Director Mike Crum, Visit Fort Worth Chairman Brian Newby, Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker and City Councilmember Elizabeth Beck.

“Today is an exciting milestone as we continue to build on the success of our local tourism economy, said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker. “The Fort Worth Convention Center expansion is more than just a building project, it is a pivotal component of Fort Worth’s vision for a vibrant, economically robust future.

Rendering courtesy of the City of Fort Worth

“The expanded Convention Center will bring increased capacity to host conferences from across the nation, bolstering our already impressive convention and tourism industry. One of the benefits of this project is it will bring an enhanced focus on pedestrian access, walkability and overall connectedness to all of downtown with the realignment of Commerce Street.”

Tourism is a $3.3 billion industry for Fort Worth and one of its largest employers with more than 30,000 jobs. The convention center expansion is part of the city’s larger economic development strategy to attract meetings from across the state and nation.

“Expanding our convention center means expanding opportunity for local business and creating jobs,” said Bob Jameson, president & CEO of Visit Fort Worth. “The word is out about Fort Worth and this center will enable us to keep up with growing demand to meet in our city.”

The expansion project will take place in two phases and the facility is remaining operational during both. Totaling 76,794 square feet, the $95 million Phase I includes the construction of a new grand Southeast entrance, state-of-the-art food & beverage facilities, demolition of the 1980s annex to double loading docks, and realignment of Commerce Street to create a site pad for a future convention hotel.

The project emphasizes pedestrian access and improving the area’s walkability and connection to the surrounding neighborhood, which includes the Water Gardens, the new Texas A&M Fort Worth campus, surrounding hotels and the Deco 969 residential tower.

Rendering courtesy of the City of Fort Worth

“Our team has dedicated countless hours of their time and talent to this project, and I couldn’t be prouder to thank them and celebrate their hard work,” said Monte Thurmond, Executive Vice President/COO South Region, AECOM Hunt. “It’s because of their collective skill that we stand here today. I know that, looking ahead to the next steps in this project, we’re in great hands. Together, we will drive this remarkable project forward, bringing new life to this facility, the surrounding community, and the entire City of Fort Worth.”

Phase I of the expansion is set to complete in 2026. Phase II, estimated at $606 million, is in planning and design stage, with construction anticipated to begin in 2026 and run through early 2030. Information on the project, including Phase I renderings, can be found at https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/public-events/convention-center/Convention-Center-Expansion.

The post Convention Center Milestone Celebrated first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Unwrap a Birthday Gift on Us!

What better way to celebrate than with free admission?  From July 2nd through September 1st, purchase a ticket on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays and receive a free ticket for a friend or family member to also enjoy the Garden that day. Come raise a glass (or an eco-friendly water bottle) to the beauty of nature with us!

Mark Your Calendars for a Free Day!

On our official birthday, December 18th, free admission will be available during regular hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Join us on this monumental day for birthday cheer and a chance to explore the Garden for FREE!

Japanese Garden Then & Now
Images courtesy of the FWBG

A Legacy Rooted in History

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden was established in December 1934 when the city’s board of park commissioners renamed a 37.5-acre area known as Rock Springs Park. Spring-fed pools, cascading waterfalls, and a newly constructed Rose Garden were the seeds of what would become one of Fort Worth’s most cherished attractions. Check out the timeline link below for many of the Garden’s milestones through the years.

Cultivating Memories for Generations

For nearly a century, we’ve been honored to be a part of Fort Worth families’ most cherished moments. From picnics and proposals to weddings and family outings, the Garden has provided a beautiful backdrop for countless memories. If you would like to share photos of some of your favorite FWBG moments with us, please send them to www.marketin@fwbg.org.

Images courtesy of the FWBG

Help Us Bloom for Another 90 Years!

Consider giving the gift of membership or a donation to ensure the Fort Worth Botanic Garden continues to flourish for generations to come. Together, we can cultivate a legacy that will bloom for the next 90 years and beyond!

“As we celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, we reflect on the rich history, enduring beauty, and profound impact this sanctuary has had on our community,” said Patrick Newman, President and CEO. “From its humble beginnings to its status as a beloved landmark, the garden stands as a testament to our commitment to nature, education, and sustainable living. As CEO, I am proud to be part of this milestone and look forward to the continued growth and prosperity of this treasured institution.”

The post Cheers to 90 Years at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden! first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

“The State got it wrong, and we are asking the courts to make it right,” said Karen Love, President of Cook Children’s Health Plan. “We have taken such good care of our Members for so many years because we live here, and they are our neighbors. We genuinely care about them. And our providers know them by name. Now, thanks to a flawed process that did not follow the guidelines set by Texas law, these families will be at the mercy of national for-profit insurance companies.”

Aspensmonster, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The HHSC process was deeply flawed and failed to follow the law requiring it:

• Recognize and give preference to health plans with long and successful track records of facilitating care for the children and mothers in our community and with ties to charity care providers.
• Give weight to health plans that provide care to special populations like
• Consider how continuity of care would be impacted, as well as costs to the

Finally, HHSC did not go through the proper rulemaking process for making critical changes to the Request for Proposal (RFP). Their scoring was riddled with mistakes, and they gave one of the winning bidders an unfair advantage by prematurely disclosing copies of its’ competitors’ proposals.

Cook Children’s has filed a Petition for Declaratory Judgment and Injunctive Relief against HHSC Commissioner Cecile Erwin Young. This is the lawsuit to overturn the decision. In the meantime, Cook Children’s has also filed a Temporary Restraining Order request to stop HHSC from finalizing its procurement results. Both actions were filed in Travis County.

Cook Children’s also filed a protest of the STAR Kids RFP to stop HHSC from making the same mistakes it made in the STAR & CHIP RFP and from taking away options from the kids who need help the most.

“These actions we take are strong but necessary,” said Rick W. Merrill, President and CEO of Cook Children’s Health Care System. “For more than 20 years, Cook Children’s has set the standard for serving Medicaid families in outstanding fashion. Our reviews from our Members are always high. And we go the extra mile to cover costs they can’t. There is zero chance that a national for-profit will care about these patients the way we do.”

For more information, including key facts, videos, photos and recent media coverage, please visit SaveCookChildrensHealthPlan.com.

About Cook Children’s Health Plan

Cook Children’s Health Plan has been serving the Tarrant Service Area Medicaid and CHIP families since 2000, ensuring our Members receive the physical and behavioral health, pharmacy and social support services you need, when and where you need them. We are affiliated with Cook Children’s Health Care System, an integrated pediatric delivery system that has over a century of service to North Texas Residents. Learn more at cookchp.org.

About Cook Children’s

Cook Children’s is more than a health care system: we strive to be an extension of your family, growing with your child from their first steps to adulthood. By collaborating to deliver on our Promise—to improve the well-being of every child in our care and our communities, we connect the dots for our patients. Between primary and specialty. Between home and medical home. Between short-term care and long-term health.

Based in Fort Worth, Texas, we’re 9,700+ dedicated team members strong, passionately caring for over 2 million patient encounters each year. Our integrated, not-for-profit organization spans two medical centers (including our state-of-the-art location in Prosper), two surgery centers, a physician network, home health services and a health plan. It also includes Child Study Center at Cook Children’s, Cook Children’s Health Services Inc., and

Cook Children’s Health Foundation. In 2024, Forbes named Cook Children’s the top health care employer in the U.S., and third on the list of ‘America’s Best Large Employers.’

And our impact extends beyond the borders of Texas. We proudly treat children from virtually every state in the nation and 32 countries. By seeing the world through the eyes of children and their families from all backgrounds, we’re able to shape health care suited to them: connected by kindness, imagination and respect—with an extra dose of magical wonder.

Discover more at cookchildrens.org.

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