The Cook Family

David Cook was born and raised in Mansfield, Texas. To David, Mansfield means family and holds many memories so it was only fitting for him to run for Mayor in 2008. He was elected and continues to serve as Mayor of Mansfield to this day.                                                                                                                   David attended Stephen F. Austin where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration in 1992. After graduation, he returned to Mansfield to attend Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. David received his Juris Doctor in 1996. During his studies, he became a Law Clerk and Legislative Aide for Senator Chris Harris. Following his graduation from law school, he became an associate attorney for Senator Chris Harris. In 2004, David and Chris partnered to form Harris Cook, LLP. David is now the Managing Partner and has expanded the practice to three locations.

Tonya Cook is a school counselor for Mansfield Independent School District. She completed her undergraduate at the University of North Texas with a major in Sociology and a minor in Behavioral Psychology. She continued her studies at Dallas Baptist University, where she earned her Masters of Education School Counseling. When Tonya is not guiding her students, she is active in her community. She and David founded Andersen, Cook & Harris Christmas Project. In addition to running the Christmas Project, she is also involved in Mansfield Cares, Salvation Army and various other organizations and committees.

Tonya and David attend Walnut Ridge Baptist Church where they both serve in the Preschool Ministry. They have four children: Stefan, Blake, Cecilee and Christian. Stefan and Blake have graduated college and recently married; Cecilee is in her third year at Texas A&M University and Christian is in his first year at the University of Oklahoma. David and Tonya have two Australian Shepherds, Sophie and Phoebe.

The Beavers Family

Christopher Beavers (29) moved to Fort Worth in 2010 after graduating Harvard College and receiving his MBA from Texas A&M University to work for Merrill Lynch. He is currently a Senior Vice President and Wealth Management Advisor. Christopher is the youngest and quickest million dollar producer in the firm and as fare as we know, the only son-father team to date at Merrill Lynch.

Emma Beavers (27) the newest edition to the Beavers Family is Christopher's wife and a four year veteran of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from TCU and Masters of Arts in Dance Education at TWU and is currently teaching dance in the fine arts department at Arlington Heights High School in Fort Worth.

Early this year, Matthew Beavers, Tax CPA for 33 years, sold his practice of 30 years in Corpus Christi to take a managing and advisory position on Christopher's Wealth Management Team. A 1981 graduate of Texas A&M University he is so pleased to reside in the same area as his children once again.

Pamela Beavers, receiving her BBA in Accounting from Texas A&M in 1992 spends most of her time caring for the family and working as a personal assistant on a part-time basis.

Kayla Beavers (25) soon followed in 2013 receiving her undergraduate and Master's Degree in Accounting from Texas A&M University. She is currently a Tax CPA working for Ernst & Young in Fort Worth.

The close knit family enjoys traveling together and gathering each week for homemade family dinners.

The Hanna Family

Robert Ulysses Hanna, 91, a World War II Navy veteran served during the attack on Pearl Harbor and the fleet actions at the Battles of the Coral Sea and of Midway Island. Discharged after the war as a Chief Petty Officer, he returned to Fort Worth and married his wife, Patricia Ann Goodman. Their marriage spanned sixty-two years until Patricia’s death in March 2014.

Stanley M. Hanna is shown with Valerie, his wife. Dr. Bill Hanna, DDS, is pictured with his wife, Donna. Robert Hanna is shown with his daughter, Dorothy Ellen Hanna and Mr. Hanna’s third son, Thomas Hanna and his wife, Connie are also shown.

Robert Hanna established his own Insurance Agency and had a successful career in sales. He is loved by his children, his fourteen grandchildren and his nineteen great-grandchildren.

The Morris Family

The Morris family began when Matt & Sarah met during college in Abilene.  Life after undergraduate studies resulted in 4 years apart as Sarah pursued her lifelong dream in Dental School at the University of Texas in San Antonio.  Matt however returned to Fort Worth where he simultaneously obtained his MBA from TCU, and began his career selling insurance for GUS BATES in 2002.  He still remembers the many $49 flights on Southwest Airlines to visit Sarah most weekends while they were apart.  The long-distance relationship brought them much closer together in the long run, and the two were married in June of 2006 in McKinney, TX.

With Sarah from Princeton, TX and Matt from Aledo, the two have found their niche in Dentistry and Insurance and they currently reside in Aledo.  They have two beautiful daughters Lillian Grace and Hannah Joy, full of energy and life. Matt & Sarah feel very Blessed to call Fort Worth home, noting the many friends and co-workers they've grown to love and the sense of community around them.  They are active members of Christ Chapel's west campus and their Faith is the cornerstone of their lives.  Both oversee growing, vibrant businesses and while every day is a challenge to fit it all in, they wouldn't have it any other way.  In their spare time they enjoy outdoor activities with their family, traveling when possible, and reading.

The Noel Family

The family of Gary and Brenda Noel.

Gary is President of Ridglea Bank and has been active on various charity boards in Fort Worth over the past 30 years. He is past President of Ridglea Country Club where he and the family enjoy golf and other club activities. Brenda has been a member of various organizations, and since her recent retirement she has enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren, golfing and traveling.

They have three children, Dr. Burke Noel, Kathleen Romero and Stefanie Goff. Burke is President of the Nebraska Academy of General Dentistry. He has a twelve-year old son, Devin and ten-year old twins, Brandon and Bailey. Kathleen is a FWISD teacher (recently earned  “Teacher of the Year”) and is married to Barrett Romero. They have two daughters, Riley and Alexa. Stefanie is the manager of Academy Uniforms and is married to Jeffrey Goff. They have a daughter, Reese and our “bonus grandchildren” Chevy, Caroline and Allison.

The Starks Family

Mike and Lara Starks are pictured with daughters Carol Anne (13,) Emily (10) and Cate (9). Mike attended Texas Tech University where he studied computer science. Lara has a master’s degree in education from the University of Arkansas.

A successful entrepreneur, Mike is the founder and CEO of Fort Worth-based Personal Trainer Food™-- the fastest growing weight loss meal home delivery plan in America.  He launched the company after successfully helping Lara shed 55 lbs following the birth of their second daughter.

Mike has a big heart that goes beyond his passion for helping Americans lose weight. In 2015 alone, Personal Trainer Food™ donated food to children’s shelters across the country, fed single mothers in need for Mother’s Day and gave  free food to obese Texas police officers to help them lose weight.

In their free time the Starks enjoy spending time together on the lake, attending Carol Anne's tennis matches, watching Emily's horse lessons and cheering at Cate's soccer games. They are covenant members of The Village Church.

The Kell Family

Twin brothers Kent and Kevin Kell are third generation dry cleaners. The Kell name has been synonymous with drycleaning since 1932 when Tom and Oleta Kell.
opened Kell Cleaners in Handley.

Their son Jack Kell took over operations in 1951
upon his graduation from Texas Christian University. Jack managed Kell Cleaners until 1987 when the business sold.

The twins opened their first store in 1989 on Camp Bowie and the Colleyville location soon followed in 1994.

Twin Kell Cleaners specializes in delicate and fragile garments, water restoration and wedding gown preservation.

Kent and Kevin graduated with business management degrees from TCU in 1984.

Kevin is past president of the Southwest drycleaners association, an 8 state region comprised of over 300 dry cleaners. He has also served on the Fort Worth Small Business Advisory Council of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Kent and Kevin are active in the church and faithful followers of their Lord Jesus Christ.

The Bowden Family

Don Bowden - Retired to Volunteer at Victory

Don was born in Fort Worth, graduated from Paschal High and TCU. His career in the restaurant business spanned over 50 years, founding Pancho’s (1966), Dos Gringos Inc. (1972), Mercado Juarez (1982).

After developing a high pressure process for food, Don founded Wholly Guacamole and built processing plants in Mexico, Peru and Chile. The business was sold in November 2014, and now Don leads the charge to promote Victory Therapy Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit Equine Facilitated Program.

VTC serves physical, cognitive and emotional needs of individuals, creating hope and healing regardless of their ability to pay.

Through Therapeutic Riding, Physical Therapy and Counseling, Victory has seen children take their first steps, or speak for the first time after sessions with horses.

Don assisted in starting services for Cook Childrens' Hospital and continues to work securing funds for the Horses For Heroes program, an invaluable service allowing Military Personnel a safe place to address their needs with Licensed Counselors in peaceful horse pastures.

(Photo Caption- Don and Linda Bowden with their children Donna Winborn and Clay Bowden)

The Moore Family

The Moore Family has called Fort Worth home for the past 13 years. Shannon graduated from Texas Tech and grew up in Abilene. Her grandfather was a long time federal judge in Fort Worth and she fell in love with this great city at an early age.

Michael grew up in Dripping Springs and after graduating from The University of Texas, he met Shannon during a Tech/Texas football game in Austin. He also realized what a phenomenal place Fort Worth would be to raise a family and conduct business.

Michael and Shannon have been married for 11 years and have two beautiful daughters Berkeley and Layla. Both girls attend Trinity Valley School where Shannon is an assistant teacher. Michael established and runs the Property and Casualty division for Gus Bates Insurance & Investments.

He enjoys working for a company that is locally owned and operated, with strong family values and is committed to giving back to the community. We feel very blessed to call Fort Worth home.

The Scobee Family

Maj. Gen. Richard Scobee graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1986. A year later, he earned his pilot wings as a distinguished graduate of Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot training. He has served as an F-16 instructor pilot both domestically and overseas in Germany, South Korea and Egypt. He deployed as Commander of the 506th Air Expeditionary Group, Kirkuk Regional Air Base, Iraq, in 2008. He has commanded at the Squadron, Group, Wing (Twice) and numbered Air Force levels.

Today, Gen. Scobee serves as the 10th Air Force commander, an Air Force Reserve numbered Air Force unit located at Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, Texas. His command includes more than 17,000 personnel operating in fighter, bomber, special operations, rescue, airborne warning and control, fighter and bomber flying-training missions, combat air operations battle staff, remotely-piloted aircraft, space and cyber units.

Richard and his wife Janis moved to Fort Worth, Texas, for the first time in 2009, where he served as commander of the 301st Fighter Wing, an Air Force Reserve F-16 unit located on the same installation. Since their return to Fort Worth a year ago, the Scobees have been actively involved in organizations to include volunteering with the Challenger Learning Center, BSA Troop 326, and supporting military families with deployments.

When Gen. Scobee is not traveling to visit one of his 17 units across the nation, he enjoys working on old cars and spending time with his family.  

The Campbell Family

Deniese and Charlie Campbell have made faith, family and community their priorities during their 17 years of marriage while living in Ft. Worth.

Charlie received Master and Bachelor degrees in accountancy from UNT in 1998 and his CPA license shortly thereafter, earning one of the top ten scores in the state of Texas. Charlie is currnetly SVP of Finance and Administration with Hillwood Progerties, assisting with oversight of AllianceTexas, a master planned community in North Fort Worth.

Denise provides the vision and energy for the family, managing a household that includes their 3 children. Mark and Charles (twins, age 10) are busy with school, guitar and sports. Hannah, (age 5) blessed this family when adopted from China in 2011. Hannah begins kindergarten in the fall and has a love of music and the piano.
Charlie is on the board of the FW Metropolitan, YMCA, and they both actively support numerous charitable, evangelical and community-based causes. Chrarlie and Deniese are excited about their future as they raise their family in Fort Worth, Texas

The Dickerson Family

Courtney and Ray Dickerson are pictured with three of their five children and four of their 7 grandchildren. Courtney is a native and lifelong resident of Fort Worth and Ray was basically raised in Arizona but got to Fort Worth as soon as he could in 1971.

Courtney is a graduate of Arlington Heights High School and attended Pine Manor in Massachusetts and the University of Texas. She recently retired from Brants Realtors where she served as a residential realtor for over 20 years. She has served as President of the Junior League and with numerous civic organizations.

Ray graduated high school in Tucson, Arizona and earned both a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree while on a baseball scholarship at Texas A & M.  He started his banking career in Houston and moved to town in 1971 with Continental National Bank. In 1986 he chartered Citizens National Bank and served as its Chairman and President until the Bank was sold in 2007. He is a former President of the Board of Trustees of the Fort Worth School District. He has served on the Boards of many civic organizations and has served as Chairman of The Gladney Center, Tarrant County YMCA, and the All Saints Health Foundation. He is currently serving on the Boards of Baylor All Saints Hospital, All Saints Health Foundation and the Ft. Worth Symphony Orchestra. His primary job today is Grandfather.

Also pictured are Scott and Tera Dickerson with their son Gage 2, Walton and Stephanie Lawrence and their children Cameron 15, Cheney 10  and Mason 9, and Walker and Kelly Lawrence. Not pictured are Grant and Lily 9 Dickerson [Louisiana] and Ashley, Olivia 16  and Grace 14 Terry [North Carolina].  

The Hudson Family

Robert and Kristi Hudson are pictured with their children, Robert Jr. (25), Brook (22), Savannah (18) and Haylee (15).

Kristi is a Certified Public Accountant and has served as Chief Financial Officer for Kelly Hart & Hallman for ten years.  Robert is an attorney with Sedgwick CMS, Inc. and serves as the Chairman of the Planning and Zoning Commission for the City of Southlake.  Robert Jr. earned his J.D. in 2014 from George Washington Law School and is a newly-licensed Texas attorney.  Brook completed her undergraduate work at LSU and is pursuing entrance into veterinarian school.  Savannah will be attending Texas State University in the fall, while Haylee will begin her sophomore year of high school.

Kristi’s passion outside of family revolves around Special Olympics Texas.  She serves on the Board of Directors and as the Volunteer Coordinator for the area.  The family loves to volunteer at Special Olympic events and finds the sheer determination of the athletes beyond humbling.  When they aren’t volunteering, they enjoy experiencing new adventures while traveling.  The family motto is: “Our favorite place to go is anywhere we’ve never been!”    

The Emery Family

Rebecca and Michael Emery

Rebecca Clegg Emery, a 6th generation Texan, is a graduate of Texas Christian University.  She is owner/operator of Rebecca Pearce Yoga and Wellness where she offers private yoga instruction and Thai Yoga Therapy.  Passionate about supporting kids, Rebecca founded Ladies On the Lamb in 2001 and continues to serve as the organization’s President. Ladies on the Lamb is a 501(c)3 that raises money to support the 4H and FFA students who show and sell their lambs at the Fort Worth Stock Show. Rebecca, a sustaining member of the Junior League of Fort Worth, continues to give back as a Sustaining Advisor to their Rodeo Program Sales Committee.

Michael Emery, a Fort Worth native, graduated from R.L. Paschal High School and attended the University of Texas at Arlington. Michael is a Service Advisor at Autobahn BMW, and an avid cyclist.

In their free time, Rebecca and Michael enjoy supporting the Fort Worth Community and outdoor activities with their dogs Rosie and Raven.

The Beckwith and Sabas Famillies

Bruce and Allison Beckwith, along with their two kids Alex and Maddie, have been a part of the Make-A-Wish® North Texas family for nearly five years. When he was three years old, Alex was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease. During the tough times in the hospital, being able to talk about Alex’s wish to go to San Diego brought immense joy to the family. Looking back on his adventures at Sea World, the San Diego Wild Animal Park, Legoland, and the San Diego Zoo, Alex cherishes the incredible memories and continues to live everyday with joy and exuberance.

It is the Sabas family of Angie, Marino, Val, Nela, and Melina, has been involved in Make-A-Wish for almost six years. Twelve year old Nela was diagnosed with aplastic anemia a few years ago and soo thereafter was reffered to Make-A-Wish where she was given the opportunity to have her one true wish granted. In 2011, the whole family was able to meet Nela's favorite celebrity, Selena Gomez!

The Warren Family

Pictured are Robert and Tara Warren enjoying the beautiful weather in the backyard of their west Fort Worth home.  The couple was recently married at BRIT in Fort Worth.
 
Robert grew up in Galveston and completed his residency in Ophthalmology at UTMB in 2000. He migrated north and was invited to join a 40-year Fort Worth legacy when he became a partner at Ophthalmology Associates in 2003.  He has improved the lives of thousands of residents of Fort Worth and the surrounding communities by performing cataract and LASIK surgery.

Tara was more fortunate - she grew up in Azle and has lived in Tarrant County her entire life.  She attended UTA and was in the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority.  Tara has been an insurance agent for several years in Fort Worth.
Robert and Tara enjoy spending time with family, friends, travelling and recently joined River Crest Country Club.  They support The Fort Worth Opera, BRIT and many other local charities.  They are looking forward to starting their family soon.

The Collier Family

Metta and John B Collier, IV, shown with their children and grandchildren at the Collier Diamond C Red Angus Ranch Headquarters, Stephenville, Texas.

It is a great honor for the Diamond C Ranch to be celebrating seventy-six years in the ranching business. In 1939, Ruth and John B Collier, Jr. bought property eight miles north of Stephenville, Texas, starting the Collier Diamond C ranching operation. To think back where the ranch has been and where we are headed is truly a point of pride for the entire Collier family. We are proud of our rich heritage and for the opportunity to celebrate our past, but even more excited as we look towards our future. We will continue our commitment to excellence; breeding the highest and best performance  cattle in the beef industry while, also, continuing to provide quality animals for our valued customers. We are excited about the future of the cattle business and eager to continue playing a major role in the changes the beef industry will make in the years to come.

The Hughes Family

Dr. Charlece Hughes graduated from the University of North Texas Health Science Center/Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her neurology residency in Dallas at UT Southwestern. Upon completion of her residency, she started her private practice with Clinical Neuroscience, P.A. in the Fort Worth Medical District. While the couple lived in Dallas for Charlece’s residency, Michael worked for the Dallas Fire Department, where he serves today as Lieutenant.
Charlece grew up in North Richland Hills, Michael in Haltom City. After being high school sweethearts, they married in 1997. Once Charlece completed her residency in Dallas, they were excited to settle in Fort Worth and love living in one of our community’s premier historic neighborhoods on the near Southside.
In addition to being a Lieutenant in the Dallas Fire Department, Michael is currently attending Criswell College completing courses in Biblical Studies. He’s been able to leverage his studies at Praxis Community Church in Arlington where both Charlece and Michael are very active.
When Dr. Hughes isn’t moving between Baylor All-Saints Hospital, THR Harris Methodist Hospital, and her private practice, she likes to exercise, spend time with friends and family, and travel the world.

The Wilson Family

Gary and Julie Wilson will celebrate their 40th anniversary this summer. A cattle rancher and retired TCU professor, Gary was a champion in last year’s Gypsy Horse World Show with the help of his “girls” Kalli and Darcie. These friendly Gypsy Cobbs are small draft horses who look big compared to the couple’s miniature donkeys. The donkeys refused to pose for this portrait!

The Eastham Family

James and Marvene Eastham, pictured here at their ranch in Parker County, met while working at JPS Hospital. this year, they will celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary with a river cruise through Europe.

Marvene grew up in healthcare, working in her father's medical clinic in Mineral Wells. She is a senior partner with a national executive search firm specializing in healthcare and medical education.

James was a healthcare executive for many years and recently retired to begin a career in education. He has stayed active running his first marathon, hiking the Grand Canyon and climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro within the past 2 years. He will complete his PhD next year.

In January, James assumed  the position of Director for UTA's Master of Science in Health Care Administration.

The Easthams's hope to continue to be a positive influence in the Fort Worth area for many years to come.

The Wade Family

Meet the Wade family:  Jim, Kay, Kaitlyn, Kylie, Kyndal and Kaden.  Kaitlyn, a 2012 graduate of Key School in Fort Worth, suffered near fatal injuries including a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in 2007 while riding in a car that was t-boned by a drunk driver who was a repeat offender.  Often those who suffer TBI’s experience difficulties with memory, information processing and learning.  Public school was not an option.  After hearing about Key School, the Wade’s scheduled a visit.  They were immediately sold and knew Key School was the right place for Kaitlyn.  The individualized curriculum and structured program that focuses on the success of each child was just what she needed.  “I truly believe Kailtyn would not be where she is today if not for this amazing school,” said Kay, Kaitlyn’s mother, who now serves on Key School’s Board of Directors.  Kaitlyn’s dad, Jim, is in sales operations at Verizon, sister, Kylie, is a freshman at The University of Texas, and sister, Kyndal and brother, Kaden attend Lamar High School in Arlington.

The Ve Bola Family

Ve Bola is an interactive video queuing software. This concept was born out of our combined experience in computers, music, and entertainment. Pictured left to right, Bobby Blair (designer/co-founder), Lyndsay Cummins (admin), Terressa Nordstrom (Creator/founder), Bobby Benton (Partner), and front Ryan Cummins (support).

Bobby Benton and Terressa currently claim a local “hole in the wall” venue called Nos Bar located in Azle as well as a Trim and Spray Foam Insulation company.  They partnered together with Bobby Blair to bring Ve Bola to light.  The pairing has been magical with the latest version offering smart phone applications.  With the help of Ms. Nordstrom’s children Lyndsay and Ryan, who each have extensive service experience, the goal has been achieved.

Ve Bola officially launched nationally February 2015 with venues in Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, and Florida.  In addition to venues we welcome home users, the service is free and fun for all ages.  We are truly blessed to have the amazing community of Fort Worth as home.

The Van Donselaar Family

Van and Cecelia Rollins Van Donselaar feel blessed to be celebrating their 13th anniversary.  Both have six siblings and enjoy spending time with family.  Van 's son Vance lives in Austin, and his daughter Tammy lives in Maryland with her husband Eric and their daughters, Hanna and Olivia.  Cecelia's son Robert attends UTA.

Van grew up as an Iowa "farm boy", worked his way through Iowa State and was hired by the founder of USPA & IRA, now known as First Command Financial Services. He retired after 31 years, having served as Regional Vice President as well as Director of Field Marketing.

A Fort Worth native, Cecelia is in residential real estate with Williams Trew.  Van plays golf at Ridglea Country Club.  Cecelia enjoys playing tennis with friends at Ridglea and TCU.  Tap dancing with the Dancing Dames is another passion of Cecelia's, and the group regularly performs at military shows.  Together, Van And Cecelia belong to Dinner Dance and Farando Dinner Dance Clubs and serve as volunteers in the Children Department at Southcliff Baptist.

The Sathyamoorthy Family

Dr. Mohan Sathyamoorthy is a Cardiologist practicing on the Baylor All Saints campus in Fort Worth. He is commonly referred to as "Dr. Mo" by his patients. He is the Chief of the Cardiovascular Division at Baylor All Saints Medical Center and Medical Director of the Baylor Heart and Vascular Hospital Fort Worth.

  He attended Johns Hopkins University earning an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering, a graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering and a doctorate with distinction in research from the SUNY Stony Brook School of Medicine. There he was awarded a coveted spot at the National Institutes of Health expanding his research training in functional genomics. Following medical school, Dr. Mo completed his internship, residency and fellowship at Vanderbilt specializing in Cardiology and training as a Physician Scientist. He remains on the adjunct faculty there.

In Fort Worth Dr. Mo is active in the community serving as the current President of the Tarrant County Chapter of the American Heart Association and an Advisory Board member for the Fort Worth Opera.

His wife Heather Romine a graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and former design and advertising professional currently spends her time as a Mom and as a personal fitness trainer. Their children, Carson and Arlie, are involved in music and sports programs at TCU and Texas Ballet Theater. They are happy to call Fort Worth home.

The Rushing Family

Amy and Mike Rushing are pictured here at their West-side home on Mattison Ave. Mike is the General Manager of Colonial Country Club where he has held this position for the past year and is also making a return to the club where he began his career thirty-seven years ago. A Fort Worth native and graduate of University of Texas at Arlington, Mike is enjoying his return home.

Amy, a University of Texas Alumna and recent owner & General Manager of her family’s RV business, is also a past president of the Texas Recreational Vehicle Association and an executive member of the National Board for the Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association. She has actively supported many charitable organizations and is looking forward to continuing her volunteer work in Fort Worth.

Amy and Mike are enjoying Fort Worth life and feel very fortunate to be a part of such a vibrant and supportive city. When their busy schedules afford, they enjoy the arts, golf and exploring some of the city’s vast dining venues.

The Rose Family

Matt and Lisa Rose are pictured here at The Gatehouse, a supportive living community where women and children in crisis discover new paths for permanent change.

Matt is Executive Chairman of BNSF Railway company after having served thirteen years as Chief Executive Officer and eleven years as Chairman -- during which time BNSF became a Berkshire Hathaway owned company in 2002. Headquartered here in Forth Worth, BNSF operates one of the largest rail systems in North America with 32,000 route miles covering 28 states and two Canadian Provinces.

Lisa is Founder and President of ProjectHandUp, a non-profit organization that gives women a hand up with life's challenges through the First Friday event and The Gatehouse. She has served on GRACE's Advisory Council, the Dallas County Jail, and currently as a board member for the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, Performing Arts Fort Worth, and on the United Way Homelessness Allocations Committee.

Lisa and Matt live in Westlake and have two grown children, both graduates of TCU. They are members of Compass Church and enjoy their ranch in Marble Falls, Texas.

The Rogers Family

If the Rogers clan ever opened a restaurant, it would definitely have to be kid-friendly.  With four pediatricians and a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, the family has provided almost one hundred and fifty years of service to children in both Fort Worth (home to Tom and Joan Rogers, MD and Audrey and Jeff Rogers, MD along with daughter, Diana) and Boise, Idaho (home to Kelly and Larry “Buzz” Showalter, MD and their four boys-Ben, Sam, Hank, and Jack).

Doctor Tom (as three generations of patients know him) started practice in 1967.  Jeff and Audrey followed in 1989 and joined him to form Forest Park Pediatrics, now part of the Cook Children’s Medical System.  Drs. Tom and Audrey still practice together while Dr. Jeff took an early retirement and now writes full-time.  Buzz and Kelly have practiced in Boise for almost twenty years.

More than ever, a large part of the family’s interests and energies revolve around TCU:  Joan is on the Board of Trustees and three of the five grandchildren-Diana, Ben, and Sam-are currently students there.  Both Ben and Sam are pursuing pre-med tracks so, perhaps, the legacy will continue.

Standing, left to right:  Diana, Jeff and Audrey Rogers; Sam and Buzz Showalter; Tom and Joan Rogers.  Seated:  Jack, Kelly, Hank, and Ben Showalter.

The Rodger Family

Allan and Debra Rodger moved from Dallas to Fort Worth 19 years ago with their daughter Allison and son Matthew.

Allan is a native of New York but fell in love with Texas after meeting Debra. Debra and Allan own Zenith Roofing Services and Christmas by Zenith.

Allison is a 2011 graduate of Texas Christian University. She then attended San Diego State University to achieve her Masters in Communication. She met Captain Blaine Sibby of the US Marine Corp in 2013 while living in California. Their upcoming marriage is planned for May of this year, in Fort Worth.  After their wedding, the couple will be moving to Frankfurt, Germany for three years where Blaine will be serving our country at the United Sates Embassy.

Matthew graduated high school in 2011 in Fort Worth, Texas. He was a two time State Champion in wrestling during his high school years. He elected to attend Texas Tech University and is currently a senior. While at Texas Tech he has served two terms as President for the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity and is achieving his degree in Business focusing on Advertising and Marketing. Upon completing college, Matt plans to work and live in Texas.

The Rodger Family loves being a part of the Fort Worth community. Allan and Debra are very involved in various charities including The Ronald McDonald House and Toys- For-Tots. They are looking forward to watching their family grow in the upcoming years.

The Robertson Family

George and Kathy Robertson grew up in Big Spring, Texas and relocated to the area in the mid 80's. Ft worth is home now along with their son Joshua and wife Kristina and their two sons Jack and James. Their daughter Rebekah is also following in the entrepreneur regimen by currently working on operating a new boutique this summer in Fort Worth. The Robertson family has been involved in the healthcare hospice services to assisted living centers. The family enjoys giving back to their community and around the world through their foundation -- Project 4031; providing assistance for terminally ill patients and their families.The Robertsons recently developed and operate GrowCo Capital which works closely with entrepreneurs and startup businesses providing capital and management solutions. The entire family enjoys and loves the community that they live in and they strive to serve others through meeting needs with positive growth opportunities.

The Rich Family

Tara and Mark Rich have been married for 10 years and are pictured with their children, Jaxon and Madelyn. Mark is the director of investments at the Kimbell Art Foundation. He is a third generation CPA and is a CFA charter holder. He is on the board of directors of the Fort Worth Chapter of the TSCPA and serves on the investment committee at the Community foundation of North Texas and the United Way of of Tarrant County. He graduated from Abilene Christian University with a bachelor's degree in accounting and finance and a Master of Accountancy degree.

In 2014 Mark was honored with the AICPA Maximo Mukelabai Award, presented to a young CPA for outstanding service toward the advancement, stewardship, and promotion of the accounting profession.

Tara graduated from Abilene Christian University with a degree in elementary education. After teaching pre-kindergarten for several years, she is currently raising Jaxon and Madelyn.

The Riches enjoy cross-country road trips together and are active members at the Hills Church in North Richland Hills.

The Prefontaine Family

Timothy and Almy Prefontaine live in Eagle Mountain with their three Children, Brendon, Isabella and Ryan. Timothy is a certified Executive Chef and has been the Chef of the Fort Worth Club since 2008.

Timothy has a degree in Culinary Arts from White Mountain Collage in New Hampshire and Almy a business degree from TCC. They moved to Fort Worth in 2008 from Houston. Timothy was the executive sous chef at the affluent River Oaks Country Club.

Timothy has been involved with numerous Charities since moving to Fort Worth including Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Lena Pope home, and Dinner Party for life. For the last 5 years with the help of Mayor Moncrief and Chief Jackson, Timothy has also organized a “Firefighters Feast” where he invites about 110 of  the Fort Worth Fire fighters that are scheduled on Thanksgiving day to the Club where they can Relax and enjoy a nice meal.

An avid competitor, Timothy has spent the last 10 years representing the United Sates as part of ACF Culinary Team USA, competing in events like the Culinary World Cup in Luxembourg, IKA or “Culinary Olympics” in Germany.

The Opitz Family

After growing up in Haskell, Texas and graduating from McMurray University in Abilene, Dennis and Lochie moved to Fort Worth in 1969 where Dennis began his career in public accounting at Ernst & Ernst.  In 1974, Dennis and  John Clay purchased a small bookkeeping and tax practice that became the public accounting firm of Rylander, Clay & Opitz.

Under Dennis’s leadership, Rylander, Clay & Opitz has become one of the largest and most respected firms in Fort Worth.  Although Dennis recently retired from the firm, he is continuing his commitment to serve the Fort Worth community through his involvement on several local boards and committees.

Rob succeeded Dennis as managing partner of Rylander, Clay & Opitz, Sean is Controller for Jerry Durant Auto Group, Matt is Vice President at Frost Bank and all three along with their wives, Christy, Jana and Kristin serve on a variety of local boards and committees.  Also pictured are grandchildren Reagan, Connor and Crawford.

The Okruhlik Family

Troy and Meredith Okruhlik are happy to call Fort Worth home.  They are pictured with Will (7), Elliott (4), and Lucy (2).

Troy is an attorney and shareholder with the law firm of Harris, Finley & Bogle, where he began practicing after graduating from Baylor Law School in 2001.  Troy is licensed in Texas and Pennsylvania and specializes in business litigation, including the resolution of oil and gas disputes, and has been recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star. Outside the office, you may find him coaching baseball at University Little League, coaching basketball at the Y, playing basketball at the Fort Worth Club, or cheering for the Aggies. After a career in health education, Meredith now spends her days volunteering at Tanglewood Elementary, hosting get-togethers for any reason, calendaring everyone’s sporting events, and nurturing her family and garden. Married almost 15 years, Troy and Meredith love to chase their kids down ski slopes, up hiking trails, or to the park on family bike rides, and are most grateful for their community of friends and neighbors.    

The Murray Family

Carole and Scott Murray began their journey together in college, when Scott was studying to be a pediatrician. They have been married over 35 years, while raising their two greatest joys, Doug, their son, and daughter, Stephanie.  Both graduated from Baylor University.

Scott spent over 30 years with NBC television as a multi Emmy Award-winning sports anchor and broadcast journalist.  Today he is Chairman/CEO of Murray Media, a video/HD/television production and A/V media event company that he founded in 2005 with his son, who is the company’s President.  Meanwhile, Stephanie is a corporate event planner based in New York City.  Both Scott and Carole have long remained active community volunteers spending the majority of their free time assisting others, while serving on the board/advisory boards of countless children’s, civic, charitable and non-profit organizations such as Cook Children’s Medical Center and Jewel Charity Ball.  

Scott has served as master of ceremonies at thousands of charity galas and non-profit events, raising money and awareness for hundreds of agencies that deal with medicine, the arts, military veterans, children and families in need for decades.

Aside from Murray Media, Scott stays active as a keynote speaker, published author and host of the weekly television program, Conversations with Scott Murray, on KTXD-TV.  His commitment to community has resulted in his being honored with such awards as: Man of the Year, Citizen of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year, Director’s Award from the FBI and the US Department of Justice and Father of the Year.

Carole and Scott were inducted into the Philanthropy World Hall of Fame in 1996.  And, Scott, weekly shares their philanthropic spirit on The Scott Murray Radio Show on KLIF, when he talks with the leaders, legends and difference makers in our world, signing off each week with his trademark close….  “LIVE YOUR LIFE AS A GO-GETTER…. SHARE YOUR LIFE AS A GO-GIVER”.

The Mosier Family

Can You Find the Monkey?

Sheri and Trey Mosier’s families have lived in Texas since the early 1800’s.  Trey is a venture capitalist and serves on the Board of Directors for Strattec Advanced Logic, Westinghouse Securities, and Actuator Systems, which are security/biometrics access technology companies.  Sheri, a realtor for Virginia Cook, Realtors, serves as president of the AHHS Dance Guild, Children’s Leader for BSF, and an active member in The Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Daughters of the American Revolution and The Order of the Crown of Charlemagne.

Cameron (23) has a finance degree from Baylor, pursues his passion in video production and owns Aminal Productions. Clay (20) works at Old Home Supply and attends Tarrant County College.  Alyssa (16) is on the AHHS volleyball and dance teams.  Spencer (14) plays golf and is on the Monnig football and soccer teams.  Sofia (13) dances with Ballet Frontier of Texas.  Malena (11) loves gymnastics and riding horses, along with Evelyn (7) who also plays the violin.  The Mosier’s attend Christ Chapel.

The Miao Family

Ever since getting engaged in Sundance Square, Fort Worth has always had special meaning for Winjie and Darryl Miao. Darryl is a native Canuck who practices neonatology with a great group of physicians and nurse practitioners throughout Tarrant County. Winjie grew up in Decatur, Illinois and after living in three states in six years, is happy to call Fort Worth home. Winjie currently serves as the President at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Alliance.

After raising their children in central Illinois, Daniel and Jeanne Tang retired to Plano in 2001.  They enjoy volunteering in the community, traveling with friends and are avid Dallas Mavericks fans. Their son, Anson, reunited with the family in Texas when he started medical school at UT Southwestern. He is currently finishing a neonatology fellowship. He met his wife, Emily, when she was assigned to Dallas as part of the Teach for America program. She is an instructional coach with Dallas ISD.

Pictured (l-r): Anson & Emily Tang, Jeanne and Dan Tang, Winjie & Darryl Miao

The Avila Family

John and Jane Avila are pictured here with their children and grandchildren.  The couple recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. John is the Chairman of Thos. S. Byrne and Jane the Founder of The Art Station, a nonprofit agency that provides art therapy for children and adults throughout the area. From left to right are their daughter Janine Berger with husband Jeff Berger, their children  seated Dana, Erin and Elizabeth.  Next is Paul Avila, Senior Vice President at Byrne, his wife Heather and children Megan, Conner and Caitlin.   Next is Matthew Avila , CEO at Thos S. Byrne with wife Kamela and children Oren and Ila.

John, a long term area construction executive purchased Byrne in 1995.  Jane combined her Art Degree from Trinity University with A UTA Masters in Social Work to open the Art Station over ten years ago.  Matthew serves as the FWISD Trustee for District 8.  Matt and Kamela enjoy sailing and snow skiing.  Paul and Heather enjoy camping, hunting and the outdoors.   Janine is an accomplished chef and she and Jeff enjoy their children, BBQing and traveling.  Jeff is a Senior Consultant with Accenture LLP.  Papa and Granny enjoy spending time with the grandchildren.

The McCay Family

As vice president in Buxton’s public sector division, Lisa works with proactive cities to improve their retail economic development efforts. She works with communities to maximize their ability to generate sales tax revenue and enhance quality of life for their citizens by successfully recruiting new retailers, retaining businesses as well as maximizing current retail options.  She is focused on communities in Texas, Illinois and California.

Lisa was recognized as the top revenue generator at Buxton across all sales divisions for the years 2013 and 2014. Her expertise in retail economic development has made her a popular speaker at conferences, luncheons, and webinars hosted by organizations such as the International City/County Management Association, the International Economic Development Council, and the Texas Municipal League.

 Lisa received her B.A. degree from Texas Wesleyan University and is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC).

She recently married on 3-23-2013 and she and her husband Tom McCay live in Aledo, TX. Tom works in sales and enjoys hunting and all outdoor activities. Lisa is a step mother of twins (girl and a boy) who are now 17 and attend Aledo High where Michael (not shown) plays football, baseball, basketball and runs track. Kristin is a top 10% student in her class and takes all AP classes in an effort to attend A&M following graduation. We all love animals and have a dog we rescued named Baxter and 4 cats.

Hobbies: We enjoy scuba diving and have dived in Curacao, Grand Caimans, Antigua, St Lucia, and more. We snow ski most years and try to find a new place in CO or NM to try a new mountain or resort. We also water ski all summer on lake with our dear friends and neighbors. I have 2 older siblings who I am very close to and who live in Keller and Irving as well as my mother who is also in Keller.

One of the most interesting things about my job is I have had the opportunity to work on so many different projects and all across the country to truly see our hard work improving the overall quality of life for the people living in the communities. I have worked with Fire Authority’s to quantify incidents and reduce the loss of life and property damage caused by fires. I have assisted utility companies like Fort Worth Water understand usage, payer mix and overall customer propensities in order to conserve our resources and their educational targeting.  I have worked with communities who have food deserts (which means their residents don’t have reasonable transportation and/or resources to access fresh foods) in those cases our work has been the catalyst of a community having a grocery store and things taken for granted in more densely populated regions. My work also improves the sales and property tax of a community which goes into the City Coffers to pay our roads, fire, police and services.

The Lixey Family

Brian and Kimberly Lixey live in Hudson Oaks with their two children, Kyle and Faith.  Brian holds a BS in Psychology from UMHB and an MBA from Tarleton State University. Kimberly has a BS in Education from Texas A&M University.  They were married last year and Kimberly relocated herself, Kyle, and Faith from Pflugerville. They both grew up in Copperas Cove and their fathers served in the Army.  Brian has lived in Hudson Oaks since 2006, where he also serves on City Council.

Brian works for Branch Banking & Trust and is the Market President for Fort Worth.  He also serves on the Board for the Child Study Center and Texas Neighborhood Services.  Brian is also involved with Catholic Charities and serves on the finance committee.  Kimberly is a stay at home mom.  She devotes most of her time volunteering at their children's schools, and is very involved with their church.  They are both very passionate about their church, family, and community.

Brian also enjoys scuba diving, riding his Harley, fly fishing, and hunting.   He loves the Fort Worth area and the people, and feels it is a great place to live and work.

The Hodges Familly

Don and Freddie Hodges grew up in Canadian Texas a small ranch and farming community in the panhandle. They moved their family to Dallas in 1968. The Hodges Family owns and operates Hodges Capital Management. Each of the three kids work in the business. The family is a business family with a core belief that they are called to help every body with their investment needs regardless of asset size. Pictured are Don and Freddie and their kids and grand kids. Camille and Stan Hays and their family. Craig and Jo Ann Hodges and their family and Clark and Kristina Hodges and their family.

The Hockman Family

Pictured is the Hockman Family, Steve, Carla and Ryan.

Steve and Carla were married 27 years ago at Southcliff Baptist Church feel blessed  to call Fort Worth home, where they have lived the majority of their lives and raised their son, Ryan.

Steve is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University and is Senior Vice President of Lending at Ciera Bank. Carla is a Fort Worth native, graduating from Southwest High School and works as an Administrative Assistant for Southwest Bank’s Trust Department. Ryan is a recent graduate of The University of North Texas, a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and is employed with Ciera Bank as a Financial Credit Analyst in the Flower Mound region.

Steve is a former Chairman of the Board for the Day Resource Center for the Homeless and a current member of the Regional Counsel for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. “Carla, Ryan and I get true joy through giving back and volunteering in our community in any way that we can. Having the opportunity to help those that have been less fortunate than ourselves really gives our life prospective and purpose.”

The Hansen Family

Mitchel Hansen is pictured with his wife, Wendy and son, Bryce. Mitchel is Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Summit Casting Equipment, an oil-field service company headquartered in Fort Worth. Mitchel earned a BS in Business Management from Iowa State University and has worked in the oil field business for 14 years. He co-founded Summit Casting Equipment in 2004 and has been instrumental in developing new products and currently holds two patents with the United States Patent and Trademark office. Professionally he is a member of the American Petroleum Institute and the American Association of Drilling Engineers. Mitchel is involved with the Ronald McDonald House of Fort Worth and the Forth Worth Stock Show Syndicate.

Wendy is an senior Facilities and Real Property Analyst for Lockeed Martin in Grand Prairie. She received her BS in Business Management at the University of Montana and has 15 years of experience in real estate. Wendy is a member of the International Facility Management Association (FMA) and the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA.) She recently joined the Junior League of Fort Worth and volunteers with Toys for Tots and Special Olympics.

Bryce is an active 2 year old that enjoys throwing the ball and playing with trucks and trains! The Hansens reside in Aledo and are active in church, traveling, golfing, and cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones and the Texas Rangers.

The Garcia Family

Meredith and Alan Garcia grew up in Fort Worth, attended Paschal High School and Southern Methodist University. They returned to Fort Worth in 2003 for Alan to work for Fort Worth Lawn Sprinkler Company, owned by Meredith’s parents, Judy and Price Hulsey. Alan worked for the family business for nine years and purchased Fort Worth Lawn Sprinkler Company in 2012. Alan considers the employees at Fort Worth Lawn Sprinkler Company family and continues the company’s 40-year-old tradition of putting employees first. They have never laid off an employee, even during economic downturns.

Alan and Meredith have three children, twin daughters Megan and Emily, and son, Sam. They enjoy spending time at Alan’s family’s ranch in Palo Pinto County, at Meredith’s family’s lake house on Possum Kingdom Lake, and in Big Bend.

The Del Conte Family

Pictured here is the Del Conte family. Chris is the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics at Texas Christian University and has held this position since 2009. He serves on the Davey O'Brien Foundation Board, the National Sports Marketing Network Board, the Division I-A Athletics Directors Association, and the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics. He is best known for his vibrant personality and many suits! Chris’ wife, Robin Ward, is a professor of mathematics at Rice University. She also teaches an integrated mathematics-visual arts program to the children enrolled in the early childhood program at All Saints’ Episcopal School, and she does extensive professional development in mathematics with local schools, including TCU’s Andrews Institute, Everman ISD, Fort Worth ISD, and Educational First Steps. She is a former aerospace engineer and the author of five teacher resource books that integrate mathematics with the visual arts and with children’s literature. Their daughter, Sienna, is enrolled in 8th grade at All Saints’. She enjoys volleyball and the visual arts, and has even begun her own jewelry-making business with a classmate. Her sister, Sophia, attends 6th grade at All Saints’ and enjoys tennis, cooking, and photography. The entire family counts their blessings that they belong to such a genuine, supportive, and dynamic community here in Fort Worth.

The Daniel Family

Jackie and Benge Daniel are pictured with their family, Lauren and Kyle Trodden (pictured left), and Kathryn and Rob Daniel (pictured right.)  Jackie and Benge have lived in Fort Worth most of their married life.   Benge is a Periodontist and has served as President of the Fort Worth District Dental Society, as well as serving in many other leadership positions in the dental field.  They’ve been active in Jewel Charity, volunteering with dentistry in the community, First United Methodist Church, and River Crest Country Club, among other things.  Jackie works in their dental office, too.

Their son Rob Daniel is an Attorney in the Texas Justice Court Training Center in Austin, and his wife Kathryn is an Assistant County Attorney in Travis County.  Lauren, their daughter, and her husband Kyle Trodden live in Fort Worth where Lauren is a Research Associate with Saks Fifth Avenue and Kyle is Assistant Vice President at Hudson Advisors.

The Daniels all enjoy sports, traveling and spending time together.  (“Owen” is also pictured.)

The Clay Family

In 1984, the Lee Clay family was able to invest in a ranch, which had been settled by and operated by the same family for 3 generations.  It’s history was apparent with original log cabin, barns, fencing,  beautiful surrounding hills and  spring fed creeks leading to the headwaters of the Puluxy River.  It was named the 4C Ranch by Lee, Alan, Charlotte and Courtney Clay. A new brand was created-the 4 and the C were placed together so as a cross held the brand together:   “With Christ, all things are possible”, has been our family’s motto.

Lee was a practicing CPA at the time.  He retired in 2005 to be a full time rancher.  Both daughters married wonderful men and had started their own families by 2000.   Alan continues doing what she can as Lee’s ‘Domestic Engineer’ and Mimi, the grandmother.  Lee is now Boppy/Poppy.

The thirteen of us continue making memories together at the 4C Ranch.  Pictured in the portrait are grouped on left: Jeff, Charlotte, Brent, Ashlee, Sarah and Caleb Buell.  Alan and Lee in center. On right: Todd, Courtney, Ashton, Sawyer and Caroline Breeding.

Even with family fun together, all three families remain active in Fort Worth in their activities with education, work, play, friends and church.

These years of growing have brought many trials and blessings.  These changes and challenges have been experienced as we continue to see the natural beauty working together to inspire us to be dedicated workers wherever we awake---city or country.

The Brender Family

Tarrant County Bar Association 2015 Blackstone Award Recipient

Art Brender was born in Chicago, the eldest of three children and raised from the age of three in Dallas.  He graduated from Jesuit High School, worked as a baker and attended the University of Texas at Austin graduating with a B.A. in History.  He served as Lt.(jg) in the U.S. Navy (1969-1971), and attended law school at University of Texas at Austin on the G.I. Bill, graduating in 1973.

In 2011, Brender was named a Trial Lawyer of the Year finalist by the national Public Justice Foundation and received the 2010 H.G. Wells Outstanding Trial Lawyer Award of the Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Association.

Brender counts as his proudest achievements winning two decisions before the U.S. Supreme Court.  In an employment discrimination case, . Watson v. Fort Worth Bank & Trust, the Supreme Court held that statistical evidence alone could be used to prove discrimination in subjective employment decisions.

Married to Lynda for 46 years, they have restored and placed on the National Register three historic homes located on Eighth Avenue, one of which serves as Brender’s office.  The Brenders have three children and six grandchildren.