Stronger Together Through Resourcefulness: Weekly Message from Maggie Campbell, President and CEO of DAMC

Summer’s here, and we’re pretty sure that Dad is ready to get out of the house. On Sunday, June 21 for Father’s Day, how about inviting him to a nice brunch, lunch, drinks, or dinner on a restaurant or pub patio in Downtown Arlington?

While this might not seem like an extraordinarily original idea, something extraordinary is happening to many of Downtown’s outdoor dining spaces. They are becoming the premier places to gather. 

We all understand that being outside in spatial configurations which allow for proper social distancing lowers the risk of spreading COVID-19. Several of your favorite Downtown destinations – including Hooligan’s Pub, Hurtado Barbecue, Legal Draft Beer Co. and J.R. Bentley's – have resourcefully expanded or upgraded their patio dining options. And there’s more to come.

For months we’ve been talking about the resiliency of Downtown’s small business community in response to COVID-19. Providing a variety of safe places to gather is just one of many examples. To further support local businesses as they seek more creative solutions, Tarrant County is offering new Small Business Assistance Grants. The program is designed to provide financial assistance to very small businesses that have been adversely affected by the pandemic and most likely have found it difficult to access other federal grants or loans. If you own a small business in Downtown, I encourage you to learn more and keep an eye on the application window, which starts June 22 and ends July 1.

Finally, as you make plans to celebrate Father’s Day (which also happens to be National Selfie Day) or a new grad or just a beautiful summer day, I also invite you to take a self-guided tour of Downtown Arlington murals. Did you know there are more than twenty? This is another great outdoor activity when, coupled with our Stars of Texas and other public art, gives you a compelling introduction to the range of artistic talent in our city. Please read this story about three African American artists whose creativity shines in all that they do, and whose Downtown murals enrich our community.