"So you're from Arlington. I've never been to Virginia."
"What school did you go to?"
"Arlington."
"Oh, you went to Arlington Heights in Ft. Worth?"
"No, Arlington High in Arlington."
"Where are you from?"
"Arlington, Texas."
"Where's that?"
"It's a city inbetween Dallas and Ft. Worth."
Growing up in Arlington I've had these conversations several times with people not from Arlington. I've had to learn how to be very specific by answering this questions, or to just answer "Dallas" because the person knows nothing about Texas except for the major attractions like the Big D. However, Arlington has come a long way in making the city known and I think everyone should know it! (Pardon my hometown pride.)
Here is a list of things every Arlington-foreigner should know about the city Arlington for when they meet an Arlingtonian.
1. Arlington is a place that loves its history.
Arlington has come a long way from being a farmers market town. Arlington has grown to be the city it is today because of the people who have invested so much to make Arlington a great city for ALL people to live in. We remember the past so we can work for a better present and future. There are many resources and museums you can find on the history of Arlington like, http://www.historicalarlington.org/ , and also at a public Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/2244691210/ for long-time Alringtonians who share their experiences of living in Arlington. Arlington is all about keeping the past alive!
2. If you move or visit Arlington, call us by our name.
Arlington may be in North Texas but that is not our name. Many big-time entertainment events are held in Arlington and their advertizing might say "North Texas" rather than "Arlington." Keep in mind there are several cities and suburbs in North Texas. When you say "North Texas" you could be talking about a number of cities and counties. Dallas County alone has 76 cities, and Arlington is not one of them. Arlington is in Tarrant County which has about 23 cities; Arlington being the biggest in the county. There are several more cities and counties in North Texas, or the DFW metroplex. If you want people to find your event or come visit you, don't just tell them it's in "North Texas." Put in the effort to type in or announce the name of the city. Don't you like it when someone takes the time to learn your name and not call you by your family's name like, "Aren't you Bob's brother?" or "Mary's mother?"
I digress. Just remember our name is Arlington, ok?
3. There is always something fun to do in Arlington
If you love professional sports then you'll be happy to know that Arlington (Not Dallas) is the home to the Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys. The locals also enjoy spending their Friday nights supporting their High School sport teams, especially football. Six Flags Over Texas is also a favorite among all, but you'll know who is not a local when you see cars driving down I-30 or Highway 360 who put on their breaks so they can gawk at the magnificent view of Six Flags.
4. Our Water Literally Is The BEST!
Water is important, but there are even places in America where water from the faucet isn't good. Arlington is the exception. Arlington has won the "Best Tatsting Surface Water in Texas" award during the 2015 Texas Water Utilitties Association's Best Tasting Water Contest. Don't believe me? See for yourself! http://www.arlington-tx.gov/news/2015/03/03/arling...
5. Arlingtonians love to celebrate
Texas is proud to have won their independence in 1836, but we cheered even louder when Texas finally joined the union in 1845. That's why the 4th of July Parade is one of the biggest parades celebrated in Arlington. One day a year is when you'll see every Arlingtonian gather together in Downtown on a Saturday morning. Streets are blocked off and people from all different backgrounds gather in downtown to celebrate our nation's freedom. The 4th of July Parade in Arlington may be an even bigger deal than the parades in New York City!
Arlington's 4th of July parade is one that you don't want to miss!
6. Arlington Inspires People To Pursue Their Dreams
Blake Mycoskie, the TOMS shoes entrepreneur, was born and raised in Arlington. He graduated from Martin High School and went on to found the world's largest shoe company to help children in need. Every time a pair of TOMS shoes are purchases, a child in need is provided a pair for free.
7. The Miracle of Lake Arlington
Lake Arlington was built in 1958 but was expected to take two years to be filled to capacity, which is 15 billion gallons! However, God had different plans. After the dam was completed the rain started to fall. And fall, and fall, and fall. It rained for 27 days and VOILA! Lake Arlington was filled in an instant. If God can fill a lake in 27 days (a small thing compared to what He can do in 40 days), then we can trust God with the growth of our city!
"Now to Him who is able to do Immeasurably more than all that we ask or imagine according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen." (Ephesians 3:20-21)
8. UTA Brings Many Nations To Arlington
The University of Texas-Arlington is ranked as one of the nation's most diverse college campsues, with students from 123 different nations, as well as from every state in the union. When God said "all the families of the nations shall worship you" (Psalm 22:27), Arlington provides a sneak peek of what God desires for eternity.
"...a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation from all tribes and people and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb..." (Revelation 7:9)
The world wants peace and unity, but the only way to accomplish that is through faith in Jesus Christ.
9. If Your Car Breaks Down In Arlington, Better Saddle Up
Ok, so Arlington is not perfect. As one of the largest cities in the U.S., Arlington does not have public transportation system. However, Arlington is a growing, young city. So who knows, the people could vote in favor for public transportation in the near or distant future.
Also, unless you have traveled to a city that has a passenger train, you won't get to actually experience one except for the passenger train that takes you around the Six Flags park.
This is a little bit about Arlington, and there is so much more to talk about; good and bad. Arlington isn't perfect but it's come a long way. I am thankful to call Arlington my hometown and I am excited for the new opportunities and adventures that Arlington will encounter. No matter how far away I go in this world, Arlington will always be my home sweet home on earth.
