Carry the Torch
August is coming at us fast...like, FAST. How is the year half over already?! Anyway, here we are. The Olympics are in full swing (with controversy from the jump...this is why we can't have nice things), and soon school will be too! We've got some fun ideas to help you soak up the last precious month of summer, plus some amazing stories of community members who are carrying the torch right here in Fort Worth-bringing progress and unity through their passions and talents. Check it all out below!
Last Supper, or a Big Fat Greek Celebration?
There was a lot of confusion and (dare I say) rage over the Olympic opening in France, with many calling out France for what looked like a caricature of the Last Supper. Drag queens and dancers lined up across a long table, a statement on unity and "community tolerance," as Anne Descamps (Paris 2024 Spokesperson) explained. Many took the performance as a mockery of the Last Supper, but the ceremony's artistic director Thomas Jolly has offered a correction-the performance was indeed NOT inspired by da Vinci's painting. Rather, Jolly shares his inspiration was Dionysus, the Greek god of celebration-a reminder of the "absurdity of violence between human beings", according to the official Olympic Games X account. Jolly's goal was to celebrate the freedoms afforded to individuals in France, as well as the power of acceptance. Thomas Jolly and the performers, through their art, reminded us of the true gift of the Olympics: not gold medals, but the chance to see each other-to really see each other-on a global stage.
Who remembers the first time they watched the Olympics? It's so exciting! Get your kiddos in on the whole experience without leaving the house! Here are some fun crafts and Olympic games to do at home!
Lil Olympians
Listen, you may not be Simone Biles. Or Sha'Carri Richardson. Confirmed, you aren't Katie Ledecky either. BUT! That doesn't mean you can't be your own Olympic hero. The true mark of an Olympian is determination-challenge yourself today! Click here for some workouts to get you in Olympic shape-whatever that means to you!
POV
You're training for the Olympics
Trailblazers of FW
Ms. Opal Lee
Odds are, you know who Ms. Opal Lee is. In case you don't though, Opal Lee is a pillar of the Fort Worth community, and our national community at large! As a teacher and counselor she helped to shape many lives, and as an activist she has helped to shape our nation. It is thanks to Ms. Opal Lee that Juneteenth is now a federally recognized holiday! The Grandmother of Juneteenth also runs Opal's Garden, and urban farm that provides fresh produce to address the needs of her inner city neighborhood.
Taste Community
Kitchen
Since 2020, Taste Community Kitchen has offered chef inspired meals with fresh ingredients and dynamic flavors to Fort Worth. The twist: no prices. Yep, no. Prices. Patrons pay what they can and enjoy the same quality of food and service-regardless of how much is in their wallet. Founded by chef Jeff Williams, Taste often hosts local executive chefs like David Pacheco and Jon Bonnell. The Taste Project has recently begun expansion into Arlington, giving more communities the opportunity to eat well.
The Grammy's of Hair
Each year, Behind the Chair hosts the One Shot Hair Awards. Across the country, stylists submit their work to be considered for national recognition. Categories include Cool Balayage, Warm Balayage, haircuts, vivids, and all other specialties of hair transformation. Being nominated is HUGE, and winning...well, it's a dream. Our very own Amanda is in the top 100 for Cool Balayage! Soon voting will be open, and we'll need your help to push her to the top! Keep your eyes peeled for a link to vote-dropping soon!
Eat Like the French
Get in the spirit of the 2024 Olympics! France is known for a lot of things-culture, fashion, music...and food! We've compiled some drool-worthy French recipes for you to try. Master a couple, and you might be transported to Paris via your taste buds. And if cooking gives you the crepes (see what we did there?), don't worry! A lot of these recipes are beginner friendly. Click here if you're hungry!
