Understanding the importance of evolution — the fact that one must change and adapt to their environment, climate, and circumstances — is paramount to any business’ survival. While this change is — more often than not — a slow process, the current pandemic that has abruptly altered the way we live has forced local businesses to think on their feet and outside of the box to keep their workers employed and their clientele happy. In this unprecedented time, we have seen local restaurants, firms, and retail outlets introduce creative ways of delivering their services. From takeout to toilet paper cakes to virtual office visits, here are their stories.
Rising to Meet the Challenge – Loft22 Cakes
My bakery business is about 75% wedding cakes. So, after almost 30 weddings canceled or postponed due to COVID-19, I was pretty sure we would have to close our doors. But with prayer, inspiration, and a desperate search for a strategy, my team and I decided to start making quarantine cakes shaped like rolls of tissue paper and filled with a funfetti inside to bring joy. They were an instant hit and sales went bananas, which has kept the doors open!
We can barely keep up with the hundreds of requests for these tissue paper cakes! Our overall operation has changed drastically in a few short weeks, but I am most proud of how we rose to meet the challenge. In this time of fear and isolation it’s never a bad idea to give yourself or send someone you love a little sweet comfort. Due to a high volume of orders, it’s best to contact us via email or to PM inbox us your number for a call back. This should allow us to accommodate as many orders as possible for the following week. Also, please be patient as we are working out the kinks to this new way of operating. Blessings are overtaking us! We are so very grateful! — Tareka L Lofton, Owner
Loft22 Cakes
106 East Daggett Ave.
682.841.1771
loft22cakes.com
No Strangers to Perseverance – Lone Star Bavarian
Lone Star Bavarian
Shortly after Lone Star Bavarian, a small family-owned business, opened in mid 2001, the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001 happened. Afterward, there was not a single phone call for over a month. Fortunately, it was a new business and had little overhead — the owner, Trent Cole, was the only employee then. So, the economic downturn was easy to overcome with so little financially at stake.
Then there was the financial collapse of 2008 – 2009 that occurred shortly after we had moved into a much larger facility with a much larger note to pay. There were lots of challenges to overcome with an economy that was in the tank, but we persisted, never gave up, and kept moving forward. That brings us to this most recent calamity and, while we are a seasoned small business at this point, this is unlike anything we have been through thus far.
Small business owners have to be flexible and ready to adapt on a regular basis, and this challenge is no different. What is different this time is the federal government’s assistance. Yet, only time will tell if their assistance will be enough to save so many small businesses. Trent says, “In the end, it is our faith and trust in God that has gotten us this far, so we will continue to lean on Him.”
Lone Star Bavarian
3800 West Vickery, Blvd.
Fort Worth, TX 76107
817.732.4888
lonestarbavarian.com
We Are Here and Open - M-Pak
M-Pak
As First Responders never run away from a crisis, neither do we. In an effort to support our local heroes, we are remaining open during this time to continue to provide our first responders with all their hero gear.
M-Pak is at your beck and call, greeting you at our front door to deliver your goods Masks on! While we are all adapting to doing business pandemic-style, we are still performing our duties in HIGH GEAR. 100% GO!
We also continue to supply government agencies with their industrial packaging needs. And to ensure our veterans receive their prescriptions in good order, we remain committed to providing the necessary pharmaceutical packaging.
Just like everyone else in this wonderful city, our M-Pak team is adjusting to the new normal. For everyone’s protection, we quarantine our incoming orders for the appropriate times, disinfect, social distance, and self-isolate outside of work. We use web chat platforms for communication and support local restaurants by bringing lunch in for our team. We also have two grown dogs, Dalai and Ellie Mae, and two active puppies, Kobe and Sparkle, here for emotional support and to add many laughs and fun to our days.
In support of personal protection, M-Pak’s amazing seamstresses are creating M-Pak-logoed masks.
Give one of our exceptional M-Pakers a call and they will help you with your order!
We look forward to the time that we can shake your hand and hug your neck in appreciation for a job well done. But until then, Stay Safe. Support Local. Kick COVID-19 butt.
M-Pak, Inc.
11255 Camp Bowie West, Ste. 108
817.696.0004
mpaktactical.com
Social Distancing — The Fun Way — Since 1974 – Metro Golf Cars
Metro Golf Cars
With the coronavirus descending upon us from nowhere, we have all been affected in various ways. To those near and abroad who have lost someone close to you, our sincere condolences. To our first responders, medical workers, cashiers, and clerks — thank you for putting others first. And to those who got stuck at the house for a while, we hope you made the most of it.
As the summer months come — along with a return to normalcy and enjoying outdoor activities — Metro Golf Cars invites you to consider the freedom of a utility golf car. Whether you are hunting, playing golf, getting around your community, or working on your farm or ranch, we have the vehicle for you. With innovative features, cutting edge technology, and top-of-the-line functionality, our brands are known for their exceptional reliability and array of accessories owners can customize any way they wish.
Metro Golf Cars is proud to be nationally recognized by Club Car as an Elite Black & Gold Dealer — a recognition we received by delivering superior service. The only thing greater than our passion for golf and utility cars is our love for our customers. So, while we are proud to earn this title again, we also extend our thanks to you for coming back again and again and making Metro Golf Cars a success. Come by our showroom at I-35W and Seminary Drive in Fort Worth, or visit online at MetroGolfCars.com
Metro Golf Cars
4063 South Freeway
Fort Worth, TX 76110
817.921.5491
MetroGolfCars.com
Tips for Sanity as You Shelter in Place – The Law Office of Gary L. Nickelson
pressmaster - stock.adobe.com
The Law Office of Gary L. Nickelson
Young annoyed man rowing with his wife by breakfast in the kitchen with their two daughters near by
As we all “shelter in place,” these are unprecedented times in our history. There are many stressors that come with the constant togetherness that is now present.
Here are a few tips from people who have dealt with family law issues for over 45+ years:
1) Structure the family’s daily routine. Make time for meals together. Assign chores and have a definite bedtime.
2) Assign “duties “ at home — who is to do what and when can bring great relief to tension in the family unit.
3) Be patient. This is a hard thing to do when you are stressed to begin with. Counting to 10 will work in most cases; in extreme cases, go for a walk.
4) Exercise. It’s a great de-stressor.
5) Make yourself a gratitude list and continue to add to it. Be grateful for your health, shelter, spouse, children, and pets.
6) Don’t assume anything. Assumptions can lead to misunderstandings, which can lead to arguments over nothing.
Family Law has been our business for over 45 years. We’ve helped many people through tough times in their relationships, and we are available to help with your family law issues. We hope that if you practice these tips, we will see you in the grocery store instead of our office. Stay Safe!
The Law Office of Gary L. Nickelson
5201 West Freeway, Ste. 100
Fort Worth, TX 76107
817.735.4000
garynickelson.com
Working Together While Apart – Parker Law Firm
Parker Law Firm
With the ever-changing news about the COVID-19 pandemic and its spread throughout the United States and our community, we know that a lot of you are feeling additional stress and uncertainty about what is to come. We understand that life doesn’t stop — even during a health crisis — and personal injury tragedies are still occurring every day. Please know that we are here for you.
At Parker Law Firm, our motto is “People Matter,” and now more than ever, that stands true. As personal injury attorneys, we are constantly helping our clients fight for justice — and even from the safety of our homes during this quarantine, we will continue to do the same. While the health and safety of our employees, clients, and partners are top priorities for our firm, we are fortunate that we are able to continue to run our business and are able to be there for you every step of the way while working remotely. Whether that be through phone calls, emails, FaceTime, or Zoom conference calling, we will make it work so that we are able to hear you, see you, and continue to be a support system for you during this challenging and uncertain time.
Please call our office at 817.799.8611 or visit our website at parkerlawfirm.com to learn more about us, our clients, and how we may be able to serve you. You can also tune in to our Podcast at podcast.parkerlawfirm.com. Stay healthy and safe!
Parker Law Firm
2317 Plaza Parkway, Ste. 100
Bedford, TX 76021
817.799.8611
parkerlawfirm.com
Adapting to Promote Safe Shopping – Pierce Hardware
Pierce Hardware
Being committed to health, safety, and the needs of our customers and employees is our number one goal.
As the world navigates through this unprecedented time as a result of COVID-19, Pierce Hardware is adapting and making significant efforts to protect the health and needs of customers and employees. These efforts have allowed Pierce Hardware to remain open for business with minimal interruptions while reducing risk — as much as possible — to customers and staff.
The Pierce team is in constant communication with domestic and international vendors to stay updated on their production capabilities and supply chain constraints.
Pierce has been able to utilize its extensive on-hand inventory to better service customers’ needs more quickly and effectively while offering a delivery service to safely transport clients’ merchandise to their homes and/or job sites.
Do you need to visit either of the Pierce Hardware showrooms in Dallas or Fort Worth? Not a problem. Simply call ahead for an appointment, and a team member can safely guide you through the showroom with minimal physical interaction.
Pierce Hardware’s management and staff understand the overwhelming amount of stress this pandemic has caused, but Pierce is committed to helping customers, vendors, and partners get through this challenge as easily and safely as possible.
Pierce Hardware
4030 W Vickery Blvd.
Fort Worth, TX 76107
817.737.9090
piercehardware.com
Strengthening Immunity – SciFit Center
Gregory James
SciFit Center
At SciFit Center, we believe in helping the community overcome the COVID-19 pandemic by continuing to provide weight loss and nutrition services as an essential business. Safety is our primary concern, so we are taking every precaution possible by following in-office sanitation guidelines and offering virtual consultations for those who prefer contactless service.
Your body’s first line of defense against illness is a healthy lifestyle. Following strategic health guidelines is the single most effective measure you can take toward naturally keeping your immune system strong and healthy. Every aspect of your body, including the immune system, functions better when it’s properly taken care of. Having a specifically formulated diet, exercising effectively, and minimizing stress are the keys to allowing your immune system to function optimally.
SciFit is unlike any other place because we focus on helping our clients reach their wellness goals from every aspect possible. We formulate personalized nutrition and fitness programs and provide weekly consultations to ensure our clients’ success and accountability.
The center provides food sensitivity, metabolism and DNA testing, which reveals food allergies, metabolic efficiency, and which diet and exercise methods are most effective for your particular genetic makeup. Utilization of the Fit3D Body Scanner provides you with the most accurate body composition data, which helps us monitor a client’s progress and ensures they are getting the results they need.
SciFit Center – Nutrition & Fitness Consulting
2408 Forest Park Blvd.
Fort Worth, Texas 76110
817.975.7583
scifitcenter.com
Stay Safe and Stay Strong – Jason Stephens, Stephens Law
Jason Stephens, Stephens Law
Recognized as a premiere personal injury and trial attorney, Jason Stephens is dedicated to compassionate, trustworthy representation for his clients and their families. Stephens Law is committed to helping the seriously injured and has a proven track record spanning over two decades. The Stephens Law team is devoted to the pursuit of excellence in everything they do while serving their clients and community with honor and integrity.
Stephens Law seeks to maximize their clients’ restitution and compensation while understanding that families and loved ones will likely never fully know their old way of life again. The team at Stephens Law strives to be “Difference Makers,” to be true advocates for the seriously injured, and to level the playing field against reckless, indifferent corporations and insurance companies.
During this difficult and unprecedented time, Stephens Law is supporting the mandates of local leaders while providing clients with the assurance, comfort, and leadership they need in some of their most difficult times. Stephens Law has long embraced and leveraged cutting-edge technology to maximize representation of clients, and the team is well equipped to consult with prospective and current clients via “virtual” video calls or by old-fashioned telephone. Moreover, Stephens Law is conducting depositions, mediations, and hearings via Zoom to advance clients’ cases.
Jason wants clients and the community to know that he and his team will continue to deliver the same level of professionalism and dedication in the face of all adversity. Stay safe and stay strong, Fort Worth!
Jason Stephens
Stephens Law
1300 South University Drive, Ste. 406
Fort Worth, TX 76107
stephenslaw.com
817.420.7000
The Fight Against Cancer Never Stops – Texas Oncology
Texas Oncology
Cancer care can’t stop — even in the midst of a pandemic.
Texas Oncology is focused on providing uninterrupted, high-quality cancer care in a safe, supportive environment. To reduce exposure to illness, elevated protocols and clinical safety standards include screening at the door, limiting visitors, and continuous cleaning of hands and of high-touch surfaces.
Texas Oncology also expanded its telemedicine services, allowing cancer patients to meet with their physicians and care teams using mobile phones or home computers, when clinically appropriate. Physicians and care teams actively follow patient progress and consult with new patients while reserving clinic space for those who need in-clinic appointments. Telemedicine is also used for genetics consultations, advance care planning, and chemotherapy orientation sessions.
For patients who need to visit our clinics for care, we provide comprehensive in-office services, including labs, CT scans, chemotherapy infusions, and radiation therapy, among others. But navigating cancer goes beyond physical care. Emotional well-being is essential to fighting cancer, and virtual support groups are offered. Together, we can fight.
Texas Oncology–Fort Worth Cancer Center
500 S. Henderson St.
Fort Worth, TX 76104
817-413-1500
Texas Oncology–Southwest Fort Worth
6500 Harris Pkwy
Fort Worth, TX 76132
817-263-2600
texasoncology.com/covid19
Spacious Luxury Living Framed by Nature – Westworth Falls
GLEN E. ELLMAN
Westworth Falls
During these challenging times, a bustling city life can leave us yearning for an escape. Just imagine waterfalls, lush vegetation, and open spaces in which to run, play — and relax. Build your custom home in this new luxury residential community that’s appropriately named Westworth Falls.
From this 28-acre gated neighborhood in West Fort Worth, enjoy private access to the only natural waterfalls in North Texas as well as more than the 70 miles of the inter-connected Trinity Trails.
Amidst the 77 platted lots are magnificent trees a century old and all the wildflowers that we Texans love. Westworth Falls includes an HOA-dedicated, 7-acre private park with playground equipment and almost a mile of interior walking paths.
This new development lies within the City of Westworth Village and is served by Fort Worth ISD. Its location is near Shady Oaks Country Club and Hawk’s Creek Golf Course. There’s no need to drive the interstate or highways to work or play, it’s just 15 minutes from Fort Worth’s Downtown, Medical District and The Shops at Clearfork.
Custom builders include: John Askew Company, Ramsey Shaw Builders, and Windmiller Custom Homes. Of course, you are invited to contract with the luxury builder of your choice or Westworth Falls’ exclusive realtor group, Alexander Chandler. Prices are available upon request.
Westworth Falls
River Oaks Blvd. @ McNaughton Lane
Westworth Village, TX 76114
817.308.5929
WestworthFalls.com
Food is in Our DNA – Zeno's on the Square
Zeno's on the Square
In response to the unprecedented challenge we are facing with the COVID-19 pandemic, Zeno’s on the Square and Mamma Monica’s Authentic Italian Restaurants quickly created a customized, online ordering system on both company websites.
“We are offering fresh menu items daily by Chef Max and the staff that feature real Italian meals for our customers who like the freshness, health values, and incredible tastes. We are also offering the ‘Stop! Grab and Go! Meals’ ready for people to pick up quickly — which includes appetizers, pasta, proteins, soups, delicious sides, and desserts that are vacuum-sealed in a special box that preserves the quality and freshness,” said Monica Russo, owner.
Zeno’s and Mamma Monica’s are open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. “We have adapted our production process to meet the new needs of our customers without sacrificing the quality of the finished product. For Italians, food is in our DNA. Food is love.”
Russo and her brother Zeno believe in this saying: “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.”
“We love and appreciate our customers. Texans and Italians are tough. We are all in this together. We will persevere and come out even stronger.”
Zeno’s on the Square
102 Houston Ave.
Weatherford, TX 76086
817.757.7552
zenosonthesquare.com