This is Richardson

We want you to know and appreciate the fact that Richardson is what it is because of the people who live here. But on this episode of the local podcast for Richardson, we have a very important announcement. Tiffany Norris talks with Jason Norris, producer of This is Richardson (https://ThisIsRichardson.com) . Support this podcast

So far, during this worldwide crisis, we've revisited Richardson restaurants and Richardson businesses to see how they're responding and managing the whole situation. We also wanted to revisit our church, First Baptist Richardson, and we really felt like that warranted its own episode. A few months ago, I talked with Ivy Lassiter, the children's pastor at church, and this time I sat down, over Skype of course, with Ron Evans, the missions pastor at First Baptist Richardson. We've heard Ron preach at church several times, and when you see him or talk with him, you immediately hear his heart for this city. He has a passion for connecting our church and our community, and it comes through in every conversation. And it was so encouraging to talk with him in the midst of this crisis and hear that same conviction for connecting our church and community even though the methods have changed. We've mentioned this before, but if you are looking for a church home, we can't recommend First Baptist Richardson enough. It is truly our family's favorite thing about this city. And, right now, you can visit online. No pressure, no awkward small talk. Just check out the service online at https://www.fbrichardson.org/ (https://www.fbrichardson.org/) The people there love God and love others, and it really just doesn't get much better than that. I'm Tiffany Norris. This Is Richardson is a podcast that tells the stories of the people and places of Richardson, Texas. Support this podcast

A couple of episodes back,  we did an update on Richardson restaurants (https://thisisrichardson.com/revisiting-richardson-restaurants/)  in light of the COVID-19 situation, so in this episode we wanted to revisit some of the Richardson places we’ve talked about in previous episodes. Editor’s Note: This situation is changing day-by-day, so this is the latest from the businesses on the day we’re recording. Check out each place’s website or social media for the most up to date information. The UPS store on Coit and Campbell (https://locations.theupsstore.com/tx/richardson/1920-n-coit-rd)  is open for business, but when we go check our mailbox, we’ve noticed customers and staff are definitely practicing social distancing and wearing masks. Richardson Bike Mart (https://www.bikemart.com/about/richardson-pg2159.htm)  is also open for business. The Richardson location is only providing bicycle service at this time, but they do have online purchasing options and even some deals going on. The Kids Play Co (https://thekidsplayco.com/)  is currently closed, but their website says they’re considering an option for “Private Play” where one family could reserve the play area for an hour at a time. So reach out to them if that’s something you want more information about. Toby‘s School of Dance (https://tobysdance.com/)  are both offering livestream classes. All of Toby’s classes, in particular, are being taught via Zoom, which I just love. Their website said “Don’t fall into the trap of too much screen time, isolation, and inactivity,” and I thought that was such an important reminder during this stressful time. As we talked about on a previous episode, the spring concert was postponed for the  Richardson Community Chorale (https://www.rcchorale.org/) . The Cottonwood Art Festival has been canceled as has the Wildflower Arts and Music Festival. Events at the  Eisemann Center (https://www.eisemanncenter.com/)  have been canceled or postponed through May 17, but check out their website for tickets that are still available for purchase for future events. So I don’t know about you, but going to the park and going to the library are two of the things my girls have missed the most during all of this. Parks and trails remain open (https://www.cor.net/departments/parks-recreation) , with social distancing encouraged of course, but people are discouraged from using the playgrounds and park fixtures because it’s hard to keep them clean enough to ensure safe use. The  Richardson Public Library (https://www.cor.net/departments/public-library)  building is also closed but offering curbside pickup. Also, as a librarian myself, I feel the need to say very clearly that our library buildings might be closed, but libraries remain open. Most of us are still providing a huge number of electronic resources and online services, and the Richardson Public Library is no exception. Finally, the  Richardson Animal Shelter (https://www.cor.net/departments/animal-services)  is allowing visitors by appointment only, and those appointments are for reclaiming a pet or adoption. Volunteers and community service activities have been suspended for now. I’ve seen several people that have taken this opportunity to adopt a pet. They’re home more and able to train it. It’s good for their mental health during this stressful time. And it gives an animal a much-needed home. So if it’s something you’ve been considering, this just might be the time to do it. The Richardson Animal Shelter can still help you out with those adoptions. So that’s a quick update on the Richardson businesses and places we’ve featured in previous episodes. Again, that’s subject to change, of course, but we thought it was important to take a snapshot of where we are now, to highlight and support some of these places even if they’re closed, and... Support this podcast

Tiffany Norris talked with Jeannie Stone, superintendent of Richardson ISD in February before all the things happened in our world and schools moved to at-home learning. In this interview, they talk about the diversity of the district, upcoming goals and initiatives, school ratings, and where in Richardson she likes to go to relax. So I hope you appreciate this interview in a different context now than when we recorded it. We've mentioned a couple of times on the podcast how very happy we've been with our experience at our neighborhood public school. Our girls have been taught well, cared for, and truly known by their teachers, and we were already so grateful for all the hard work of the teachers and staff there. That gratitude has only multiplied in the last month as we've watched Dr. Stone, our principal, all the teachers and staff navigate this extremely challenging experience with grace and good humor. We would also love to hear about your RISD experience—either in light of our current situation or any time. Link Jeannie Stone on Twitter: https://twitter.com/3jstone Support this podcast

I'm Tiffany Norris, and you're listening to This Is Richardson, a podcast that tells the stories of the people and places of Richardson, Texas. This is a strange time right now in the world, so this week we wanted to take a look back at some of the places we've featured on the podcast up to this point and let you know how they're dealing with everything. First up is the restaurants. We've interviewed the owners of seven Richardson restaurants during the last few months, and they are all still open for business in one way or another. Most are still doing either curbside pickup, drive-through, and/or delivery. We can personally vouch for the delivery options for Sweet Firefly and Tongue in Cheek as ice cream is my comfort food of choice these days. Eiland Coffee and Woody B's also offer shipping options, and the store front of Sweet Daze is closed, but they are still doing catering orders. Now Communion Neighborhood Cooperative has been doing some really cool things. Like the others, they offer an online ordering option where you can pick up coffee, many of their regular menu items, or a family meal to go. But they've also launched a campaign called 400 for 500 that we wanted to highlight in this episode. Here's how it works. For $200, you get 6 of their family-style meals. These are delicious and made from scratch in the Communion Kitchen, and they serve at least four people. You can pick them up hot and ready to go or get them cold and warm them up later in the oven. You can get all six in the same week or spread it out and do one each week for six weeks. When they hit 400 of these subscriptions, they're committing to serving an additional 100 people per week. Thus the name 400 for 500. Those additional 100 people will include those that are most affected by COVID-19 in our community. So they say that is people who are losing jobs and significant income, first responders, health-care providers, and anyone else who would just be blessed by a meal. It's hard not to love this idea. Because with a subscription, you're not just helping your family eat. You're not just helping those additional 100 people that Communion is committing to feed. You're also helping a Richardson business and the people who work there. You're helping them stay viable through this uncertain time. You know, I joked about ice cream earlier, but we really have found ourselves eating out a little more during this quarantined time just because we're aware that the local restaurants that we love have taken a hard hit. And we want to support them. For our little family, that support feels small sometimes, but we are doing what we can. And what we can do includes this podcast. So the next time you're craving some ice cream or coffee or barbecue or just can't deal with cooking one night, think about one of these seven Richardson businesses: Communion Neighborhood Cooperative (http://www.communioncooperative.com/) Eiland Coffee Roasters (https://www.eilandcoffee.com/) Reverie Bakeshop (https://www.reveriebakeshop.com/) Sweet Daze (https://www.sweetdaze.com/) Sweet Firefly (https://www.sweetfirefly.com/) Tongue in Cheek (https://tongueincheekicecream.com/) Woody B's BBQ (https://woodybsbbq.com/) I hope we can actually see you at one of these places soon. I'm Tiffany Norris. Thanks for listening to This Is Richardson. Support this podcast

I know several people who've been through the Leadership Richardson program, and it's something I've been interested in too. So I was super excited to talk with Kim Quirk. She's the executive director and practically a lifelong resident of Richardson, Texas. Even though I'm not participating any time soon, I enjoyed getting to hear more about Leadership Richardson and what it does for the city. Link http://LeadershipRichardson.com/ By the way, do you have any experience with Leadership Richardson? If so, we'd love to hear about it. Support this podcast

Yes, things have changed in our city and our world since I talked with Ian Gill. He’s on a mission to make Richardson a singing city. And even though their spring performance has been postponed until we navigate through this crisis, we believe that Richardson will be a singing city. We need music, art, and faith now more than ever. We hope this interview will encourage you and remind you that there is still beauty. You just have to listen. We’d love to hear from you during this challenging time, especially if there’s a way we can help or encourage you. Links Richardson Community Chorale: Website (https://www.rcchorale.org/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/richardsoncommunitychorale/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/rcchorale/) Support this podcast

I feel like we've been telling a lot of dessert stories lately. I happen to like sweets almost as much as I like coffee, so we tend to get around on the treat circuit in Richardson. Sweet Daze is one of my favorites. We first ventured in for donuts one summer, and we were instant fans. I talked with the owner, Holly Nguyen, to hear a little more about her sweet business. When you get your next craving for a treat, try Sweet Daze. Their designs are so creative, and everything we've tried there has been delightful. If you do stop by, we'd love to hear about it. Link https://www.SweetDaze.com This Is Richardson is a local podcast telling the stories of the people and places of Richardson, Texas. Support this podcast

Spring is in the air. At least it is when we're posting this episode, and there's nothing like a bike ride to give you spring fever. I think Woody Smith would agree. He's the president and owner of Richardson Bike Mart, and he has a passion for cycling. And I have to say I learned SO much in this interview—both about cycling and about Richardson. Isn't it cool that we are one of only two Texas cities to achieve bike-friendly status? I love that, and it makes me want to ride more often. We've had three great experiences with Richardson Bike Mart, purchasing two of our daughters' first bikes there and having another one restored.  I'm Tiffany Norris, and you're listening to This Is Richardson, a podcast that tells the stories of the people and places of Richardson, Texas. Link: Bike Mart website (https://www.bikemart.com/about/richardson-pg2159.htm) https://www.bikemart.com/about/richardson-pg2159.htm (https://www.bikemart.com/about/richardson-pg2159.htm) Support this podcast

Looking for a laidback, cool space to hang out on date night? Trying to find a quick drive-through option for ice cream? We found it. Tongue in Cheek Ice Cream. It's in a pretty high traffic area, just off of Arapaho. That presents its own set of challenges, as you'll hear from firefighter-turned-entrepreneur Brett Smith, firefighter-turned-entrepreneur. He's serving up some fascinating and delicious flavors of ice cream. Did you hear him say coffee-infused ice cream? I'm going to have to try that the next time they offer it. What Brett has done with the space really is impressive, and the ice cream is incredible. If you check them out, we'd love to hear about it. Link: Tongue in Cheek web site (https://tongueincheekicecream.com/) Support this podcast

You know by now I love a good cup of coffee. And Clay Eiland takes coffee to a whole new level. He's the owner of Eiland Coffee Roasters here in Richardson, and you might have had a cup of his coffee already if you've eaten somewhere like Ida Claire or shopped at Whole Foods. But you can also go directly to Eiland Coffee Roasters and get an absolutely amazing cup of coffee on-site. Even though I can't wait to see how they grow beyond their current location, I have to say that Eiland Coffee Roasters is the best kind of hole in the wall place. Definitely swing by and check it out.  Links Eiland Coffee Roasters (https://www.eilandcoffee.com/) Also, if you like This is Richardson, you can buy me a cup of coffee and help support the podcast. Click here to find out how (https://ThisIsRichardson.com/support) . Support this podcast

This Is Richardson is local podcast that tells the stories of the people and places of Richardson, Texas. In this episode, we're also telling the stories of the animals of Richardson. Tiffany Norris talks with Noura Jammal, manager of Animal Services for the city of Richardson. Are you an animal lover as well? If you're looking to share that love, please check out one of the shelter's adoptable pets. The Richardson Animal Shelter is an open adoption facility, and they encourage interaction between visitors and adoptable pets. Links: (https://www.cor.net/departments/animal-services) (https://www.instagram.com/richardson_animal_shelter/) Support this podcast

The Kids Play Co is an indoor playground in the II Creeks area with free coffee. And if you've listened for any amount of time, you know that I do love coffee. I'm Tiffany Norris, and you're listening to This Is Richardson, a podcast that tells the stories of Richardson, Texas. The Kids Play Co is such a fun, cool place where kids can have parties, attend classes, or just play. The owner Chris Downs fills us in on everything they offer and their history in Richardson. Having just hosted 15 kids at my house for an 8-year-old's birthday party, I had to laugh when he talked about the stress of having parties at home. It's definitely less stress when you go out. And if you're listening before Valentine's Day, let us know if you check out their Frozen Valentines event. Links: https://thekidsplayco.com/ (https://thekidsplayco.com/) https://www.livingmagazine.net/the-2019-best-of-n-richardson-murphy-readers-choice-winners/ (https://www.livingmagazine.net/the-2019-best-of-n-richardson-murphy-readers-choice-winners/) You can find your local Richardson podcast on Instagram and Facebook and at ThisIsRichardson.com (https://thisisrichardson.com/) . Support this podcast

Whenever you're listening, I can guarantee it's a good time for ice cream. Doesn't matter if it's chilly, rainy, or hot as blazes. If you're in Texas, it could be any of those things—sometimes all in the same week. I think the owners of Sweet Firefly would agree. I talked with one of the owners, Patti Otte, about their story of how they got started and what it's like for them doing business in Richardson. And I loved what she said about Richardson, "It's a small town in a big city." That echoes what so many of the people we've talked with have said as well, and I think that's a big part of what makes this city so special. Also, I have to say, after this interview, my daughter and I went back to Sweet Firefly, and we had the hot chocolate with ice cream. And it was straight up amazing. So, the next time it's cold, go get yourself some hot chocolate and ice cream. If you do, we'd love to hear about it. You can find us on Instagram and Facebook or at ThisIsRichardson.com (http://thisisrichardson.com/) . Thanks for listening! Support this podcast

Even national franchises can be local because the owners are part of our community. Tiffany Norris talks with Neetu Goyal, owner of the UPS Store at Coit and Campbell in Richardson, Texas. Do you have a franchise in Richardson, Texas? We would love to hear your story too and hear how you balance the requirements of the franchise with the people in your local community. Support this podcast

We said a couple of episodes back that want to tell more stories of the people of Richardson. Not just places. Not just businesses. But people. So I'd like to introduce you to our friends Andy and Angie Helguson. I'm Tiffany Norris, and you're listening to This Is Richardson, a podcast that tells the stories of Richardson, Texas in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. (https://ThisIsRichardson.com) Support this podcast

Have you been to Communion Neighborhood Cooperative? It's a coffee shop. And a co-working space. And a restaurant. And an event venue. And it's much more! Tiffany Norris talks with Communion owners Tim and Amy Kahle and discovers it's a place designed to build community in Richardson. By the way, we recorded this interview in the studio that's inside Communion. If you try it out or use any of their other services, we'd love to hear about it.  We would also love to tell as many of your stories as we possibly can. If you want to talk about your business or your individual Richardson experience, just reach out to us. Links: (http://www.communioncooperative.com/) (https://ThisIsRichardson.com) This Is Richardson is part of the (https://OnTheGo.FM) . Support this podcast

Tiffany Norris talks with her husband Jason Norris, editor and producer of This is Richardson, about the past, present, and future of the podcast. Support this podcast

As we head into the new year, health and fitness resolutions are on the minds of many. So we thought this would be a good time to air our interview with Adrienne Marshall, who is the owner of Pure Barre Richardson. I discovered Pure Barre about five years ago over in Fort Worth, and, since then, it has been my absolute favorite workout. Even though I don't get into the studio as often as I'd like, it's still one of my favorite ways to treat myself. So if you have some health and fitness goals for the new year (or anytime really), I highly recommend Pure Barre. It's challenging without feeling like you're punishing your body. And if you listen all the way to the end, you'll catch a discount if you want to check it out. Oh, and you can get 10 percent off of packages if you let Pure Barre Richardson know you heard about them on the podcast. We're also hoping to feature more local franchises. That mix between the national and local can be really interesting. So, if you own a franchise and would like to be interviewed for the podcast, reach out to us at ThisIsRichardson.com. Or let us know if you tried Pure Barre. I feel confident you'll love it. Links Pure Barre Richardson website (https://www.purebarre.com/location/richardson-tx) Pure Barre Richardson on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/322WestCampbellRoad/) Pure Barre Richardson on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/purebarrerichardson/) Support this podcast

I talked with Reverie's co-owner Nancy Castillo about her start in the world of vegan baking, their six-year anniversary, and what makes Richardson the perfect location for Reverie. Question for you! What is your favorite treat from Reverie Bakeshop? Links: Reverie's website (https://www.reveriebakeshop.com/) Reverie on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ReverieBakeshop/) Reverie on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/reveriebakeshop/) Support this podcast

I'm talking with Ivy Lassiter, the Children's Pastor at First Baptist Richardson. I hope you enjoy learning more about Ivy's story as well as First Baptist Richardson. And if you're listening to this before December, you're invited to any or all of the Christmas events at our church. First Baptist Richardson hosts First Christmas on December 1, which is so much fun for kiddos and moms like me who get very excited about petting zoos. FBR has a concert mid-month as well as services closer to Christmas Day. You can find all the details at (https://FBRichardson.org) . If you're coming, let us know! You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Thanks for listening to This Is Richardson and sharing the local podcast with your neighbors here in Richardson, Texas. Support this podcast

On this episode of This is Richardson, we're telling the story of Woody B's Barbecue. (And the story of how my family encountered the place!) LinksCheck out the full menu at WoodyBsBBQ.com (https://woodybsbbq.com) . Woody B's on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/woodybsbbq/) . Woody B's on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/woodybsbbq/) . Question for youWhat are your favorites from Woody B's BBQ? Leave a comment or connect with us on Instagram (http://instagram.com/thisisrichardson) to share your Woody B's stories. Support this podcast

This Is Richardson is a local podcast telling you the stories of Richardson, Texas. And one of the best places you can go to learn those stories is the local public library. Tiffany Norris talked with Stacey Davis, the history librarian for Richardson Public Library. She has been in charge of the local collection at the public library for more than 20 years, so she's an expert on the history of Richardson. The library has a fantastic collection of newspapers, photographs, and documents, both online and on-site—some things dating as far back as the 1880s. Links (https://www.cor.net/departments/public-library) Support this podcast

Toby’s School of Dance is one of the longest operating businesses in the city of Richardson, and the studio has a history and reputation as interesting as the city itself.  It was started by Toby 60 years ago, and the current owners are Sally and Don Andriot. I loved sitting down with this incredible couple to hear more of their story.  If you or your child is looking for a place to take dance, we cannot recommend Toby’s enough. It is such a fun, supportive environment, and its long history in the city of Richardson is just another bonus. Do you have a story about Toby’s? We’d love to hear it. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, or at ThisIsRichardson.com.  Links (https://tobysdance.com/) (https://www.instagram.com/tobyschoolofdance/) (https://www.facebook.com/tobyschoolofdance/) (https://www.nothingbundtcakes.com/bakery/tx/richardson) Support this podcast

Tiffany Norris talks with Lori Smeby, the director of the Richardson Parks and Recreation department. With nearly 40 parks in the city of Richardson, you're just a short walk away. Lori has a lot to say about city parks, events, and the department's 60-year history. Listen to hear stories about Santa's Village, the Cottonwood and Wildflower Festivals, and the city's first inclusive playground at Cottonwood Park. Link (https://www.cor.net/departments/parks-recreation) The Parks and Recreation department does a lot for the city of Richardson. What's your favorite park, activity, or event here? We'd love to hear your stories too. Support this podcast

Have you ever been to the Eisemann Center? When you walk in there, you walk into a whole different world. On this episode, Tiffany talks with Roni Carassco, Assistant Marketing & Development Manager at the Eisemann Center. The Eisemann has something that meets every budget. You can go to see the completely free art gallery. There are, of course, amazing shows with a variety of seating prices. They have performers who have been on Broadway as well as Texas mainstays like Asleep at the Wheel, and they feature some really cool up and coming performers too. Links: (https://www.eisemanncenter.com/) (https://www.cor.net/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/16450/64) (https://thenetwork.org/) (http://www.lonechimneymercantile.com/) (http://delsburgers.com/) Support this podcast