going analog…
My 10-year-old considers herself a “gamer.” But what she really means by that is that she is always ready to wipe the floor with anyone brave enough to face her over a board game.
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STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
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She is our family’s unofficial game-night coordinator, gathering everyone around the table and somehow convincing even the most screen-attached among us to put down our phones and join in.
If I’m honest, there are plenty of evenings when that is the last thing I feel like doing. But then the game starts. Everyone gets invested. There are laughs, a few cheers — maybe some good-natured jeers. It is similar to how I feel about going to the gym: sometimes getting started takes more motivation than it should. But I cannot remember ever finishing a game night — or a workout, for that matter — and thinking I would have been better off scrolling TikTok.
I don’t know about you, but I am still carrying a few bad habits from the years when staying home became the default. I’m feeling the thaw, though. And I get the sense I’m far from the only one.
Which is exactly why Mahjong has caught on in such a big way. In our cover feature, Noreen Kane, founder of the Green Mahjong Dragons, remembers how a rare Texas freeze gave neighbors the perfect excuse to gather: three hours of Mahjong, wine, and conversation. “It just gave us a reason to come together,” she says.
Homestyle takes it further with a guide to hosting your own game night, inspired by gatherings at Art Algebra, where each Tuesday, strangers are becoming friends across the table.
For a different kind of game night, we sat down with Carroll alum and Texas Rangers pitcher Tyler Alexander to talk about coming home, the Southlake spots that still draw him back, and what he’s learning from some of baseball’s biggest names.
Going analog doesn’t mean giving up technology. It means remembering how good it feels to be fully present with the people right in front of us. Or, say, with a good magazine and a cup of coffee.
Here’s to showing up for game night.
With gratitude,
Cynthia Naugher | Editor Cynthia@SouthlakeStyle.com
REBEL SPIRIT
PHOTO BY ADRIAN CORTES
Photo by Adrian Cortes
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SUFFS: THE MUSICAL BASS PERFORMANCE HALL
AUGUST 4–9
This Tony Award-winning Broadway musical brings the fight or women’s suffage to Bass Performance Hall for a limited Fort Worth engagement. Set in the years leading up to the passage of the 19th Amendment, the acclaimed production follows the activists who challenged the country, the political establishment, and even one another in pursuit of the right to vote. With powerful performances, memorable music, and a story rooted in perseverance, progress, and change, Suffs turns a piotal chapter of American history into a stirring reminder of how hardwon every step forward can be.
10 Places To Shop Tax-Free Weekend
1. Anthropologie. First-day outfit enegy.
2. Lululemon. Athleisure, but make it taxfree-ish.
3. Tyler’s. Sneakers, tees, and campus staples.
4. Nordstrom Rack Name brands. Better prices.
5. Target. Supplies, socks, snacks, sanity.
6. Pottery Barn Kids/Teen. Backpacks. Hello.
7. Walmart. The school-list workhorse.
8. Grapevine Mills. Go early. Hydrate. Commit.
9. Old Navy. Uniforms, denim, basics, done.
10. Academy Sports + Outdoors. Shoes, gear, and “they grew again” essentials.
EVERYTHING IS (NOT) AWESOME
For serial lego thief sentenced to 45-years in Tarrant County Court
FANS FLOCK TO METROPLEX
DFW hosted nearly 4 million visitors for World Cup
CARILL-ON & OFF AGAIN
Latest developer pulls plans for Southlake mixed-use project
TEXAS TEE
Haaland scored goals, a whiskey-toting raccoon, and a cheeky local shirt
Take us along on your next adventure! Pack your copy of Southlake Style, snap a photo, and share it with us. You just might see yourself in an upcoming issue. Don’t forget to include names and your destination.
Ken Lee tees up with Style in Shanghai
media NOW
THE ODYSSEY
Christopher Nolan goes mythic with this sweeping adaptation of Homer’s Greek epic, starring Matt Damon as Odysseus, Anne Hathaway as Penelope and Tom Holland as Telemachus. Zendaya steps into the role of Athena, while Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o and Charlize Theron round out the star-studded cast. With Nolan behind the camera and a story filledwith gods, monsters, temptation, and homecoming, this is shaping up to be one of summer’s biggest cinematic events. Photo by Universal Pictures
In Theaters Now
SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY
Fresh off theirOdyssey, Tom Holland and Zendaya return to the MCU as Peter Parker and MJ in the next chapter of Spider-Man’s story. Holland leads a stacked cast that includes Sadie Sink, Jon Bernthal, Michael Mando, Mark Ruffalo, Tramell Tillman, and more. With Peter facing life in a city that no longer knows his name, this installment promises fresh stakes, familiar faces, and plenty of speculation about where the web-slinger goes next. Photo by Sony Pictures
In Theaters
July 31
UNDER THE FALLS
Pulitzer Prize-winning author Richard Russo returns with a small-town thriller about a famous musician’s uneasy homecoming, a benefitconcert and the longburied secrets waiting for him on Stone Mountain. Equal parts character drama and page-turning mystery, it explores friendship, betrayal, and the places we never fully leave behind.
In Bookstores
August 11
THE DINK
Jake Johnson (“New Girl”) leads this pickleball comedy about an aging tennis pro who reluctantly trades the court for the fastestgrowing game in town. With Mary Steenburgen, Ed Harris, Ben Stiller, Chloe Fineman, Patton Oswalt, and Andy Roddick in the mix, it’s a sporty, silly late-summer watch with plenty of comedic spin. Photo by Apple TV
On Apple TV July 24
SPA WEEKEND
From the team behind “Bad Moms” comes the kind of funny, chaotic girls’ night out film tht pairs best with a big cocktail and your besties. Anna Faris, Isla Fisher, Leslie Mann, and Michelle Buteau star as friends hoping for a relaxing spa getaway, only for their self-care weekend to unravel into massages, mishaps, and full-blown vacation chaos. Photo by Black Bear Pictures
In Theaters
August 21
Build a Home That Is Truly Yours
Southlake Builder Talks Designing a Custom Home
What is the difference between buying a new construction home and building a custom one?
A finished spec’ home is already designed and built, allowing you to move in quickly but usually with very little design control. A custom build starts with you. We shape the floor plan finishes and flw around how your family actually lives. It takes more time than buying an existing home, but you get a one-of-a-kind home that reflectsyour taste, your routines, and your personality.
I want to build. How do I get started, and do I need to own land first
Not necessarily. Some clients already own a lot, and we build on it. For others, we help find and secue the right land firt. Either way, the firt step is a conversation about your budget, timeline, and wish list, so we can map a realistic plan before you commit.
Where does the design process begin, and how involved will I be?
It begins with you, not a blueprint. We talk through how you live, your routines, what frustrates you now, and what you want your new home to make easier. With almost two decades of building behind me, I can guide you toward smart choices you might not think to ask for, from the firt sketch to the final finishe
What is the biggest misconception about building a custom home?
That building a home has to be stressful. People expect blown budgets, endless delays, and a thousand decisions with no guidance. With the right builder, it is the opposite. I set clear expectations up front, keep you informed at every step, and handle the details, so building your home feels exciting instead of overwhelming.
As a female builder, what makes Lily Grace Homes different?
I bring a designer's eye and an instinct for how a home is really lived in, then back it with true attention to detail. Working directly with me from the firt sketch to your finalwalkthrough, you get a home that is not just beautifully built but shaped around your everyday life. That is where a house becomes truly yours.
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SHOULDER PAIN STARTS WITH THE RIGHT DIAGNOSIS
Learn The Signs Of Common Shoulder Conditions And Treatments For Lasting Relief
When you have shoulder pain, it can interrupt your whole routine. While people often wait and see if things get better, early care can make a difference. That's why understanding what's causing your shoulder pain early can help you find the treatment and relief that work best for you.
The first step toward relief is finding the cause. “Shoulder impingement or shoulder pain is kind of a catch-all like back pain,” says Michael Khazzam, MD, a shoulder specialist on the medical staff at Baylor Scott & White – Grapevine. “We’ve really got to dive down deep to figure out what’s causing that pain.”
Rotator cuff disease may start with pain on the outside of the upper arm that hurts when you raise your arm overhead or wakes you up at night. Labral tears in the cartilage around the shoulder can cause pain in several areas. But shoulder pain doesn’t always mean a tear. Frozen shoulder develops due to inflammation, especially in people with diabetes or thyroid conditions or women ages 40-60. Biceps inflammation is also common, and arthritis may cause a deep pain that feels like a toothache.
While shoulder pain often improves with nonsurgical care, visiting a shoulder specialist first helps guide your next steps. “If you’re trying to treat something that you’re not quite sure what it is, you may not get better as quickly,” Dr. Khazzam says. “If you come see a specialist, we have other modalities, medications, and injections, and can direct physical therapy appropriately.”
Some shoulder conditions, such as severe arthritis or major rotator cuff tears, need surgery. One option is reverse shoulder replacement, which reconstructs the shoulder by flipping the placement of the ball and socket. At Baylor Scott & White –Grapevine, robotic technology is available for certain reverse shoulder replacement procedures. The robot allows the surgeon to prepare the shoulder socket and place the implant with a high degree of precision..
“If we put the implant in the perfect position, there’s a better likelihood of that implant outliving the patient,” Dr. Khazzam says. These advancements in surgical care, along with numerous nonsurgical treatments, mean you have more options to get long-lasting relief. The earlier you seek care, the sooner you can find the right solution.
"Don't be heroic or shy about ignoring the pain you're having. We can mitigate your symptoms and get you feeling better."
— Michael Khazzam, MD
SPOTLIGHT
SOUTHLAKE INVESTS $6.4 MILLION IN NORTH PARK TURF CONVERSION
One of Southlake's busiest parks is set for a major transformation. The city has committed $6.4 million toward converting North Park's athletic fieldsfrom natural grass to artificialturf as part of an $8.2 million renovation project. Additional improvements include new parking, fencing, sidewalks and drainage upgrades designed to enhance the park's functionality. If funding allows, future phases could also bring LED lighting, irrigation improvements and other amenities. The project is part of Southlake's Capital Improvement Program and aims to better accommodate the growing demand for youth sports, leagues and community recreation.
CARROLL CAPTURES FIRST-EVER TEXAS CUP
Carroll has added another trophy to an already historic year. The Dragons were named the inaugural Class 6A Texas Cup champion, a new statewide honor awarded by the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association to recognize the top overall athletic program in each UIL classifiction. Unlike the Lone Star Cup, which includes academics and extracurricular activities, the Texas Cup is based solely on athletic achievement. Powered by state-title performances, deep playoff runs, and district championships across multiple sports, Carroll edged out the competition to become the firt school to claim the Class 6A crown.
DFW RESTAURANT WEEK TURNS 30
DFW Restaurant Week is celebrating 30 years of food and philanthropy this August. Since 1996, the annual dining event has raised more than $13 million for local nonprofits including the North Texas Food Bank and Lena Pope. Southlake’s own Del Frisco’s Grille earned recognition among the event’s top Tarrant County fundraising restaurants. The 2026 edition launches Aug. 10, with Preview Weekend beginning Aug. 6.
FULLER JOINS BAY FC, CONTINUES U-20 USWNT JOURNEY
Southlake native and Carroll High School graduate Kennedy Fuller is headed to Bay FC after being acquired from Angel City FC in a June trade. The former Lady Dragons state champion and 2023 Gatorade National Girls Soccer Player of the Year also recently represented the United States at a U-20 Women's National Team training camp in Spain. Fuller remains a key part of the U.S. Soccer pipeline as she prepares for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Poland.
LOCAL STUDENTS EARN WORLD FINALS HONORS
Carroll students delivered impressive results at the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals, an international creative problem-solving competition featuring nearly 700 teams from around the globe. Eubanks Intermediate students Kayden Shidham, Juliet Hamilton, Declan Lutterbach, Hunter Gottlieb, SofiaLarson, Sydney Trueblood and Varen Admal earned second place in their division, while Rockenbaugh Elementary students JD Alwine, Vaikha Garlapati, Leonie Gourdon, Oliver Rurka, Anika Anil, Ariv Anil, and Sanchi Rajpal placed fifth Courtesy Ashley Monogue Photography
HEAVY-DUTY FUN NOW AVAILABLE AT DIG WORLD
Dig World has officiallrolled into Grapevine Mills, bringing a construction-themed adventure unlike anything else in North Texas. Guests can climb aboard and operate real, kid-safe heavy equipment, including excavators and skid steers, in an interactive outdoor setting built for all ages. Equal parts playground and worksite, the new attraction is already digging up excitement as one of Grapevine’s newest family destinations.
JUSTIN LEONARD NAMED XC COACH OF THE YEAR
Carroll’s championship cross country tradition added another milestone as head coach Justin Leonard was named Texas Cross Country Coach of the Year by the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association. The honor follows Leonard guiding the Dragons to a record-setting seventh straight UIL 6A state title, further cementing Carroll’s place among the nation’s premier distance-running programs.
ARLINGTON RANKS AMONG TOP SPORTS BUSINESS CITIES
Arlington’s reputation as a sports destination continues to grow. Sports Business Journal recently ranked the city No. 24 among America’s top sports business cities, citing its powerhouse venues, packed event calendar and major economic impact. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup bringing nine matches to Arlington — the most of any host city worldwide — North Texas remains firmly in the ntional sports spotlight.
DRAGON FOOTBALL BEGINS AUG. 27
A new chapter of Carroll football is on deck. The Dragons have released their 2026 schedule — the firt under head coach Lee Munn — featuring a challenging slate of marquee non-district matchups and familiar district battles. Carroll opens Aug. 27 against Oklahoma powerhouse Jenks at the Cotton Bowl, followed by North Crowley (Sept. 4), and Allen (Sept. 11). District play includes Keller Central, Northwest, Keller, Byron Nelson, Timber Creek, and newcomer Boswell, with the regular season wrapping Nov. 4. Courtesy Woo Doo Photo
JERSEY MIKE'S BRAND EARNS TOP FAST-FOOD RANKING
Fans of the Jersey Mike's location in Southlake have some bragging rights. According to the 2026 American Customer Satisfaction Index Restaurant and Food Delivery Study, Jersey Mike's is now the nation's toprated quick-service restaurant, ending Chick-fil-A's long run atop the rankings. The sandwich chain earned a score of 84, narrowly edging Chick-fil-A's 83
ULTA BEAUTY SET TO OPEN AT GRAPEVINE MILLS THIS FALL
Beauty shoppers will soon have a new destination at Grapevine Mills. Ulta Beauty is opening a 6,545-squarefoot store at the popular shopping center, with construction expected to wrap up in September ahead of a fall debut. The retailer offers thousands of makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrance, and wellness products, along with salon services at many locations. An officiagrand opening date has not yet been announced.
COLLEYVILLE WELCOMES POP & POUR
Bubbly lovers have a new reason to celebrate. Pop & Pour, a chic yet approachable champagne and sparkling wine lounge, is now open at Colleyville Town Center. Founded by Jessica Glenn, the venue features global pours, custom mimosa flights and shared plates. The concept leans into the idea that sparkling wine does not have to be saved for special occasions.
TALKING ANIMALS BOOKS OPENS COFFEE BAR
Your next bookstore browse just got cozier. Talking Animals Books in Grapevine has officiallopened a new coffee bar inside its South Main Street location, serving coffee drinks, teas, frappuccinos, and more. The addition fulfillsa longtime dream for owners Katy Lemieux and Valerie Walizadeh, who continue growing the beloved indie bookstore into a true community gathering space that encourages readers to sip and settle in.
BON BON CAFFÈ’S EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE COMES TO GRAPEVINE
Bon Bon Caffè has opened on South Main Street in Historic Downtown Grapevine, introducing a Europeanstyle café serving pastries, espresso drinks, panini, pinsa al taglio, salads, small plates, gelato, and cocktails. The all-day concept transitions from morning coffee service to evening aperitivo, adding a new gathering spot for dining, drinks, and casual stops downtown.
PORTILLO’S ANNOUNCES FIRST AIRPORT LOCATION AT DFW AIRPORT
Portillo’s is set to open its firt-ever airport location inside Terminal B at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, bringing its signature Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and chocolate cake to travelers on the go. The compact format will feature kiosks, grab-and-go ordering and seating for more than 50 guests, marking another North Texas expansion for the popular chain.
ART ALGEBRA BRINGS GLOBAL CREATIVITY TO COLLEYVILLE
Art Algebra in Colleyville, founded by husband-andwife team Aatif Merchant and Aashna Bharwani, is now open and blends handmade international artwork, specialty coffee and community events under one roof. The space features pieces sourced from artists around the world, each paired with QR codes that share the creator’s story. Beyond the gallery walls, Art Algebra hosts yoga classes, pop-up markets, mahjong nights, and other gatherings designed to foster connection.
DUGOUT FEELS AT BASEBALL LIFESTYLE IN GRAPEVINE
Baseball fans have a new clubhouse at Grapevine Mills.
The First Five Years is Everything.
The experiences your child has in their first
five years
help shape how they learn, grow, and see the world for years to come.
Let's make these years count at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse.
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FACE FOUNDRIÉ OPENS IN TOWN SQUARE
Southlake’s wellness scene just got a glow-up. FACE FOUNDRIÉ is now open in Southlake Town Square, bringing its popular lineup of facials, lashes, brows and skincare services to town. Owned by local entrepreneur Lauren Swanberg, the new 1,600-square-foot studio features 10 service beds and the brand’s signature modern design. Guests can expect HydraFacials,
The Goddard School
Where they start truly matters. At The Goddard School in Southlake, early childhood education is rooted in nurturing care, playful discovery, and purposeful learning. Serving children from 6 weeks to 5 years old, Goddard offers a safe, welcoming environment led by experienced teachers who spark curiosity and build confidence. With a play-based, academically focused curriculum tailored to each developmental stage, Goddard prepares children not just for kindergarten—but for a lifetime of success. NAEYC Early Learning Program and COGNIA accredited.
FAST FACTS
SHOP SAINT BERNARD
Where You Go Before You Go
Since 1978, Saint Bernard has been helping customers prepare for life's next adventure. What began as a specialty ski shop has grown into a retail destination known for its carefully selected mix of clothing, footwear and accessories.
With five locations across Texas, including Southlake, Saint Bernard offers an effortless shopping experience for the entire family. The men's department features brands such as Peter Millar, Faherty, Johnnie-O, Mizzen+Main and Vuori, while the women's collection includes favorites like Frame, Mother, AGOLDE, Doen and Vince. Shoppers will also find premium footwear, gifts, home accents and a dedicated Kids Corner.
As summer winds down and back-to-school season begins, Saint Bernard makes it easy to check multiple items off your list in one stop. Whether you're shopping for a new semester, sorority rush, football season or an upcoming trip, our store's curated selection offers pieces that work well beyond a single occasion. Tax-Free Weekend is also the perfect time to visit. From everyday essentials to standout wardrobe additions, we bring fresh, seasonal finds for all.
"Born in Texas, inspired by everywhere. Whether it’s a ski trip to Colorado, a long weekend in Cabo, or just a baby shower down the street, we’ve got you covered. Familyowned since 1978. Outfitting you for the sun, the snow, and everything in between."
MahjongMadness
ahjong is no longer your grandmother’s pastime.
It’s the new dinner party. The new book club. The new standing girls’ night. Celebrities are talking about it, stylish tile sets are everywhere on Instagram, and game nights that once revolved around charcuterie boards and cocktails now come with racks, dice, and tiles. Even Blake Lively has reportedly helped pull Mahjong into the pop-culture conversation, proof that when the game hooks you, it hooks you.
Beneath the buzz, though, is something deeper than trend appeal: Mahjong is bringing people together.
The game itself is anything but new. Mahjong took shape in China in the 19th century before making its way to the United States in the 1920s, when businessman Joseph Babcock popularized a simplifiedversion for American players. The craze eventually cooled, but the game found a lasting home among generations of Jewish American women, particularly in New York. In 1937, the National Mah Jongg League helped standardize American rules, including the annually updated card still used by many players today. What’s happening now, more than a century later, isn’t really a discovery. It’s a return.
Just ask Noreen Kane.
BY
CYNTHIA NAUGHER PHOTOS BY ADRIAN CORTES
Kane, founder of local social club Green Mahjong Dragons, didn’t set out to start a movement. About three and a half years ago, a friend talked her into a lesson. Her first reaction: “This is very complicated,” she remembers thinking. “Not great.”
She gave it another shot anyway. The second time, it clicked.
Kane and a friend had an idea: what if Mahjong felt less like sitting in on someone’s grandmother’s game and more like a night out?
“This would be so much better with drinks,” she remembers telling a friend. “Mimosa and Mahjong, right?”
So they tested the theory. They booked a clubhouse, picked a date, and told their friends: if you want an invite, learn to play over Christmas break.
Sixty-five people showed up.
“We’re all like, this is so fun,” Kane says.
That party became the unofficial launch of Green Mahjong Dragons, and Kane has been teaching, hosting, and throwing Mahjong parties e ver since.
Why It’s Suddenly Everywhere
Mahjong hits a rare sweet spot: it is both social and cerebral.
“You can have a 25-year-old and a 65-year-old sitting next to each other for three hours, sharing a glass of wine and having a great time,” Kane says. “I don’t know anything else that really does that.”
The game’s structure creates instant common ground. Everyone is focused on the same goal — building a winning hand — which removes the pressure of constant conversation. You talk when it flows. You think when it doesn’t.
And unlike surface-level mingling, Mahjong offers something quietly satisfying: brain stimulation. American Mahjong, the most widely played version in the U.S., requires players to follow an annually updated card of specific tile combinations. The complexity keeps it fresh, and for many players, that mental challenge is part of the appeal.
It’s fun, yes. But it also feels productive. You leave the table feeling like you did something.
“You can have
a 25-year-old and a 65-year-old sitting next to each other for three hours, sharing a glass of wine and having a great time.”
— Noreen Kane
Green Mahjong Dragons Thu Nguyen Keojampa, Noreen Kane, and Lauren Nelson.
The Learning Curve
If you’re picturing an intimidating, rules-heavy affair, Kane understands.
American Mahjong has a learning curve. There are patterns to recognize, strategies to develop and a rhythm to master — players draw and discard from 13 tiles at a time, working toward a 14th that completes a winning hand.
But once it clicks, it sticks.
“It’s like riding a bike,” Kane says. “If you don’t keep playing, you lose your skill level. But once you really learn it, you’ll always know how.”
That is why she recommends beginners learn together rather than jumping into a table of experienced players.
“There’s actually nothing more annoying than wanting to play Mahjong and having a newbie at your table,” she says.
It is blunt advice, but practical. Mahjong works best when everyone knows roughly what they’re doing. If your group is new, Kane suggests treating a lesson like a paint-and-sip class: a social experience with a tangible outcome.
“It’s not easy to learn,” she says. “But you will come out of our event knowing how to play.”
Once everyone has the basics down, hosting becomes surprisingly simple. The structure does most of the work, and the rest — snacks, drinks, music, styling — is atmosphere. (For the full howto, see our guide to hosting a game night.) That atmosphere is part of why the game has crossed so easily from traditional card tables into brunches, girls’ nights and community events.
Beyond the Dining Room
Today, Mahjong isn’t confined to formal entertaining. A traditional set is roughly the size of a carry-on — beautiful, but not exactly grab-and-go. In response, lightweight travel versions have emerged, small enough to slip into a backpack or tote. Kane once made her own.
That’s where the magic expands.
Mahjong shows up on girls’ trips in Park City. On ski weekends. Poolside with mimosas. Even at the playground.
“I always say I wish I had known about Mahjong when I was doing random playdates with other moms,” Kane says. “You’re making small talk while watching your kids. But with Mahjong, you’re also doing something for your brain. You feel like you actually did something for yourself.”
Instead of scrolling while children climb and swing, moms sit shoulder-to-shoulder with racks balanced on picnic tables, laughing over discards and strategizing between snack breaks. The game provides structure — and an easy escape from the sometimes-awkward choreography of casual parent small talk.
“During the freeze this year, my neighbor asked me to come over for Mahjong,” Kane says. “We invited two more neighbors, walked to each other’s houses and played for three hours with wine. It just gave us a reason to come together.”
She did it twice that week, with two different groups.
“It’s a reason to come over and hang out,” she says, “versus just sitting in somebody’s living room waiting for them to leave.”
Wine poured. Tiles shuffled. Three hours vanished.
What might have been a quiet, isolated evening became something connective instead — proof that Mahjong’s real power isn’t the winning hand. It’s the invitation.
That may be the real reason Mahjong is trending. It gives people a reason to gather. Not just to talk, but to engage. To think. To laugh. To drink and be merry. And in a culture that moves fast and scrolls faster, that kind of analog ritual feels rare.
Rack & Roll
CHARLESTON MAHJONG TRAVEL SET
A colorful, compact set made for poolside play, girls’ trips, and games on the go.
Oh My Mahjong | $450
The Mahjong Line | $150
BASKETWEAVE MAHJONG SET
Jonathan Adler’s luxe lacquer set doubles as a posh cocktail table accent between games.
Jonathan Adler | $695
EMERALD ULTIMATE STARTER KIT
Everything you need to play in style: jewel-toned tiles, mat, racks, bags, cards, and more.
Oh My Mahjong | $975
seasoned players alike. The Mahjong Line | $10
Make A Splash
This Floating Mahjong Mat Was Made for Sunny Days, Spritzes, and a Little Friendly Competition
PDETAILS
Aqua Jong Pool Mahjong Mat
Dimensions: Opened: 33" × 33" × 2"
Folded: 33" × 16.25" × 4"
Weight: 5.36 lbs
(mat + carrying case)
Price: $350 OhMyMahjong.com
icture this: Texas heat, a sunny summer day, Aperol spritzes in hand, and mahjong on the mind. The pool is calling. So are your friends. Thanks to Oh My Mahjong's Aqua Jong Pool Mat, you don't have to choose.
The mat is exactly what it sounds like: a floating game board designed to take your favorite tile game straight to the water. Bright, playful, and available in pink or green, consider this a chic upgrade to the term “pool shark.”
Built-in tile holders keep your winning hand in place instead of drifting toward the deep end. Removable stabilizers add support on the water, while the lightweight, foldable design makes it just as easy to pack for the lake or beach as it is
for the backyard. It even comes with a breathable carrying case, complete with a pouch for small essentials, that helps it dry quickly after the last tile is played.
Over the last few years, Oh My Mahjong has become the name in elevated tile game design, a regular feature on every Mahj-core TikTok FYP and keeping company with the likes of Prada and The Row in the pages of Women’s Wear Daily and Vogue. The Dallas-based brand knows its audience, and the Aqua Jong is proof.
One note before you dive in: the mat does not include tiles, so bring your own set. And if you don’t have one yet, Oh My Mahjong’s own line is a very good place to start.
Photo by
Oh My Mahjong
The beauty of custom design.
Art Algebra owners Aatif Merchant and Aashna Bharwani
night
How to Host a Mahjong Night
On a recent Mahjong night at Art Algebra, the Colleyville gallery quickly became something closer to a living room. Tiles clicked, wine glasses clinked, and by the end of the evening, people who had just met were exchanging numbers so they could play together again.
That is the magic of a great game night. It gives people a reason to put down their phones, think a little, laugh a lot, and connect over something more meaningful than small talk.
Art Algebra only opened this past spring, but owners Aatif Merchant and Aashna Bharwani have already watched it become more than a place to browse handmade international art. With Mahjong nights organized by WildflowerMahjong, seasonal lattes, and pop-up events, it has become a true gathering place.
That sense of ease and connection can translate at home, too. Start with the essentials: a mat, tiles, racks, cards, and room for four players. Then let the set do the styling. A colorful set, like one from Oh My Mahjong or The Mahjong Line, makes the table feel playful and polished, from dots and cracks to "bams," aka the game’s bamboo-suit tiles.
But ambiance is only half the equation. According to Leasha Noblitt, co-founder of WildflowerMahjong, first time hosts consistently underestimate the preparation.
“If you’re teaching while hosting open-play tables and providing food and drink, there are so many plates spinning,” she says. “Teaching Mahjong by itself is an undertaking.”
If Mahjong is the game, seat four players per table, put beginners with one dedicated teacher, and let experienced players run their own table. Bank on each round taking up to 30 minutes. For veterans, add a competition element: trinkets for each winning hand, a leaderboard, or raffle tickets
Keep food simple: nuts, tea sandwiches, and bitesized desserts. Nothing greasy or crumb-heavy. Tea gives the night tradition. Mimosas or spritzes make it celebratory.
“You make friends,” Aatif says. “There’s like a ripple effect.”
That is the real art of game night: a room where people have a place to gather, a reason to stay, and something to remember.
ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY
Atoosa Kourosh, MD
Holistic Allergy & Immunology 214.702.6550 | DoctorAtoosa.com
Millard Tierce, DO
Fort Worth Asthma & Allergy Associates 817.315.2550 | FWAllergy.com
ANESTHESIOLOGY
Kathleen Bajaj, DO
US Anesthesia Partners
972.715.5000 | USAP.com
George Fox, MD
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
Jeffry Harper, MD
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
Matthew Hayes, MD
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
Katherine Hege, MD
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
Timothy Hsu, MD
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
Eric Johnson, DO
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
Brad Oetman, MD
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
Southlake is home to some of the finest medical professional in North Texas, and this month, we’re celebrating them. Through our 11th annual peer-nominated Top Docs recognition program, Southlake Style invited local physicians to nominate the colleagues they trust the most. After collecting hundreds of submissions throughout May, we curated a list of 240 exceptional doctors across 41 specialties to serve as a trusted resource for our readers. Congratulations to this year’s Top Docs - and thank you for your dedication to keeping our community healthy.
Maulik Parikh, MD
North Texas Plastic Surgery
817.934.5749
NorthTexasPlasticSurgery.com
Alan Romero, MD
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
Paul Salcido, MD
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
Uttam Shastri, MD
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
Stephen Wilkins, MD
US Anesthesia Partners 972.715.5000 | USAP.com
BARIATRIC SURGERY
Richard Novack, MD
Ultimate Bariatrics & General Surgery 817.502.3017 | UltimateBariatrics.com
BREAST SURGERY
Miral Amin, MD
Venus Breast Care
817.704.0783 | VenusBC.com
Catherine Jennings, MD
Texas Oncology
817.662.0008 | TexasOncology.com
Danielle LeBlanc, MD
Le Blanc Plastic Surgery
817.698.9990 | FortWorthPlasticSurgeryInstitute.com
Angela Seda, MD Texas Oncology 817.200.3079 | TexasOncology.com
CARDIOLOGY
Paul Bhella, MD
Baylor Scott & White Cardiovascular Consultants 817.912.8400 | BSWHealth.com
Sanjayanth Chamakura, MD 360 Cardiac Care 682.337.3810 | 360Cardiac.com
Chris Cianci, DO
The Heart Hospital Cardiovasuclar Clinic 469.814.4475 | BSWHealth.com
Amyn Malik, MD Tricities Cardiology 682.999.8446 | TexasHealth.org
John Osborne, MD State of the Heart Cardiology 817.849.4274 SOTHCardiology.com
Rajesh Vrushab, MD
Mid-Cities Cardiology 817.510.1060 | MidCitiesCardiacCareCenter.com
CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY
Jeffrey Wu, MD Baylor Scott & White Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery 817.912.8240 BSWHealth.com
CONCIERGE MEDICINE
Daniel Melville, MD Melville Medicine 817.676.2010 MelvilleMedicine.com
COSMETIC & PLASTIC SURGERY
Casey Anderson, MD
North Texas Plastic Surgery
817.934.5749
NorthTexasPlasticSurgery.com
Grant Bond, MD
North Texas Plastic Surgery
817.934.5749
NorthTexasPlasticSurgery.com
Jeremy Bosworth, MD
North Texas Plastic Surgery
817.934.5749
NorthTexasPlasticSurgery.com
Jonathan Heistein, MD
Jonathan Heistein MD 817.820.0000 | DrHeistein.com
Tarik Madni, MD
Plastic Surgery Specialists
817.912.1200 | TarikMadniMD.com
Arvind Manisundaram, MD
North Texas Plastic Surgery
817.934.5749
NorthTexasPlasticSurgery.com
Mark Mason, MD
Southlake Plastic Surgery
817.442.8900
SouthlakePlasticSurgery.com
Matthew Novak, MD
Southlake Plastic Surgery
817.442.8900
SouthlakePlasticSurgery.com
Sacha Obaid, MD
North Texas Plastic Surgery
817.934.5749
NorthTexasPlasticSurgery.com
Jordan Rihani, MD
Facial Plastic Surgery Institute 817.529.3232 | FacialPlasticSurgeryInstitute.com
Vishnu Rumalla, MD
North Tarrant Plastic Surgery
817.741.6801 | TarrantPlasticSurgery.com
Lindsey Tavakolian, MD
Lindsey Tavakolian MD 817.820.0000 | LTPlasticSurgery.com
DENTISTRY & ORTHODONTICS
Masoud Attar, DDS
Pride Dental
817.461.9998 | PrideDentalOffice.com
Doan Bui, DDS
Family Tree Dentistry
817.520.0520 FamilyTreeDentistry.com
Jacob Chandler, DDS
Mason Dental
817.481.4717 | DrMasonDental.com
Jose Chow, DDS
Jose D. Chow Orthodontics
817.282.0200 | JoseChowOrtho.com
Ali Dawood, DMD
Mason Dental
817.481.4717 | DrMasonDental.com
Lee Dodson, DDS
Lee Dodson, DDS
817.481.1036 | LeeDodsonDDS.com
Maegan Elam, DDS
Maegan Elam, DDS & Associates
817.580.8006 | BedfordDentistry.com
Basma Fallah, DDS
NRH Orthodontics
817.581.8881 | NRHOrthodontics.com
Timothy Huckabee, DDS
Huckabee Dental
817.329.4746 | DFWDental.com
Greg Martin, DDS
Smiles By Martin 817.567.2125 | SmilesByMartin.com
Ben Melton, DDS
Southlake Dental 817.481.6553 | SouthlakeDental.com
Gary Middleton, DDS
EndoConnect
972.450.1492 | EndoConnect.net
Hessam Rahimi, DDS
Fusion Orthodontics
972.666.5363 | FusionOrthodontics
Aditi Shah, DDS
Azure Dental 817.616.4963 | AzureFamilyDental.com
Peter J Theodorou, DMD
Stellar Smiles Ortho 817.562.2222 | StellarSmilesOrtho.com
Shane Tolleson, DDS Tolleson Orthodontics 817.416.2200 | TollesonOrtho.com
Casey Turner, DDS
Advanced Endodontics of Texas 817.562.4141 AdvancedEndoOfTexas.com
Chris Tye, DDS
Texas Oral Surgery Specialists 817.552.3223 | TXOSS.com
David White, DDS
David White DDS 214.437.2405 | DSWDDS.com
DERMATOLOGY
Sanober Amin, MD Dermatology Solutions 214.337.6362 | DermSolutionsTX.com
Gabriela Blanco, MD Colleyville Dermatology 817.868.1616 ColleyvilleDermatology.com
Michael Carletti, DO UNT Health 817.735.0147 | UNTHealth.edu
Sara Greer, MD Greer Dermatology 817.631.0310 | GreerDermatology.com
Patrick Keehan, DO Keehan Dermatology 817.769.3603 | KeehanDermatology.com
Shaily Kesani, MD DermatologyMD 817.893.6002 TheDermatologyMD.com
Sreedevi Kodali, MD Colleyville Dermatology 817.868.1616 ColleyvilleDermatology.com
Saira Momin, DO Dermatology Surgery Specialists 817.410.7700 | DFWMohs.com
Heather Volkman, DO Dermatology Specialists of Fort Worth 817.989.1221 | FWDermatology.com
Daniel Walker, MD US Dermatology Partners Grapevine 817.329.2263 USDermatologyPartners.com
David Wright, MD Advanced Dermasurgery Associates 972.726.6647 NorthTexasMohs.com
EMERGENCY MEDICINE
David Darrigan, DO Medical City Healthcare 817.912.0000 MedicalCityHealthcare.com
Josh Prickett, MD E-Care ER 817.281.7277 | E-CareCenters.com
FAMILY MEDICINE
Sherley Aramath, MD Arlington Family Practice 817.277.6444 | ArlingtonFP.com
“Our team is here to listen, educate, and build a plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.”
Southlake Surgery Center
Jonathan Heistein, M.D., Lindsey Tavakolian, M.D., Vishnu Rumalla, M.D.
WHAT'S ONE MISCONCEPTION PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT PLASTIC SURGERY THAT YOU'D LOVE TO CORRECT?
That it’s all about vanity. In reality, plastic surgery is about restoring confidence, balance, and sometimes even function. Whether it’s breast reconstruction after cancer or a facelift to match how someone feels on the inside, it’s rarely “just cosmetic.”
WHAT MAKES SOMEONE A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A COSMETIC PROCEDURE—AND WHAT ADVICE DO YOU GIVE PEOPLE WHO ARE STILL DECIDING?
A good candidate is someone who’s healthy, has realistic expectations and is making the decision for themselves. If you’re still deciding, we encourage you to ask questions, take your time, and think long-term. Surgery is not a shortcut—it’s a tool when used thoughtfully.
Heistein M.D. | Tavakolian M.D. 521 W Southlake Blvd #175 817.820.0000 | DrHeistein.com
WHAT SHOULD SOMEONE EXPECT WHEN THEY WALK INTO YOUR OFFICE FOR THE FIRST TIME?
Warmth, honesty, and no pressure. Our team is here to listen, educate, and build a plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.
HOW DO YOU BALANCE SCIENCE, PRECISION, AND EMPATHY IN YOUR DAY-TO-DAY WORK?
Plastic surgery is the perfect blend of science and artistry—but empathy is what grounds it all. We use precision and evidence-based techniques to get natural, long-lasting results, but we never lose sight of the person.
Rumalla M.D. 1870 Keller Parkway, Suite 100, Keller 817.334.0030 | TarrantPlasticSurgery.com
Dennis Michael Bell, DO
Baylor Scott & White Colleyville Family Medicine
817.912.9920 BSWHealth.com
Lezli Brazwell, MD
TLC Family Health 972.914.9421 TLCFamilyHealth.com
Ty Bush, DO
Baylor Scott & White Colleyville Family Medicine 817.912.9920 | BSWHealth.com
Brandon Cherry, DO
Baylor Scott & White Colleyville Family Medicine and Pediatrics
817.912.9920 BSWHealth.com
Chris Dingess, DO Keller Family Medical Center 817.431.2573 | KellerFamilyMedical.com
Jonathan Flores, PA Texas Health Family Care
817.993.4717 TexasHealth.org
Walter Gaman, MD
Executive Medicine of Texas
817.552.4300 | EMTexas.com
Gowtham Ganesan, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics
817.912.8800 BSWHealth.com
Christine Gavino, DO
Baylor Scott & White Colleyville Family Medicine
817.912.9920 | BSWHealth.com
Brad Griffin, D Brad Griffinamily Medicine 817.491.2564
Stephen Kindrick, DO
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics
817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Dana Kirby, MD
North Tarrant Family Practice Associates 817.485.0161 | BSWHealth.com
Theresa Le, MD
Baylor Scott & White Keller Family Medicine
817.912.8150 | BSWHealth.com
Song Lee, MD
Song Lee Family Medicine
817.416.0525 SongLee95d.Dr-Leonardo.com
Henry Lu, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics
817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Tony Rector, DO
Southlake Integrative Wellness Center 817.329.6263
SouthlakeWellnessCenter.com
Smita Rumalla, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics 817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Charles Russey, MD Dr. Charles Russey Family Practice 817.416.2221
Ryan Simonak, DO
Fossil Creek Family Medical Center
817.498.1818 FossilCreekFamilyMedicalCenter.com
Amity Smith, MD
Revolution Wellness & Prevention Clinic 817.488.2837 RevolutionWellnessAndPrevention.com
Jonathan Soto, MD
Baylor Scott & White Colleyville Family Medicine
817.912.9920 | BSWHealth.com
Matthew Stine, DO
Medical Associates at Willow Park 817.441.9252 | MedicalAssociatesAtWillowPark.com
Joyce Stroud, DO
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics 817.912.8800 BSWHealth.com
Kathe Supavong, DO 121MD 817.423.5121 | 121MD.net
Brooke Hall Thorne, DO Thorne Family Medicine 817.203.1561 ThorneFamilyMedicine.com
David Wilson, MD
Valora Southlake 817.329.8364 | ValoraMedical.com
FOOT & ANKLE SURGERY
Michael Downey, DPM Precision Orthopedics 972.438.4636 | PrecisionOrthoSports.com
Jordan Ernst, DPM
Texas Institute of Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine 817.527.9497 | TIOSOrthoSports.com
Adriana Karpati, DPM Foot and Ankle Associates of North Texas 817.416.6155 | FAANT.com
Lauren Pruner, DPM Foot and Ankle Associates of North Texas 817.416.6155 | FAANT.com
Paul Steinke, DPM Active Life Foot and Ankle of Texas 817.546.8250 ActiveLifeFootAndAnkle.com
Brian Straus, MD All-Star Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine 817.421.5000 | AllStarOrtho.com
Michael Tran, DPM
AllCare Foot & Ankle Center 817.276.4600 | AllCareFootDoc.com
FUNCTIONAL AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE
Angela Straface, MD Feel Ideal 360 972.656.1200 | FeelIdeal360.com
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Jody Houston, MD Texas Digestive Disease Consultants 817.741.4347 | TDDCTX.com
Mark Murray, MD Digestive Health Associates of Texas 817.284.2693 | DHAT.com
Troy Schmidt, MD GI Alliance 817.741.4347 | GIAlliance.com
Karen Steffer, MD Texas Digestive Disease Consultants 817.424.1525 | GIAlliance.com
GENERAL SURGERY
Melvin Joseph Elieson, MD Elite Surgical Solutions 817.748.2260 | TexasHealth.org
Ralph Parker, MD Ralph Parker, M.D. 972.874.3400 | RalphParkerMD.com
Valeria Simone, MD Southlake General Surgery 817.748.0200 SouthlakeGeneralSurgery.com
HAND & WRIST SURGERY
B. Todd Drury, MD
Texas Orthopedic Specialists 817.540.4477 | TXOrtho.net
Venus Breast Center
Miral Amin, MD, MBA, FACS
WHAT SHOULD SOMEONE EXPECT WHEN THEY WALK INTO YOUR OFFICE FOR THE FIRST TIME?
Patients can expect a detailed breast evaluation, including a review of symptoms, imaging, pathology when available, risk factors, anatomy, and personal priorities. With dual fellowship training in breast surgical oncology and oncoplastic breast surgery, I help patients understand their options including lumpectomy, partial mastectomy, oncoplastic partial mastectomy, mastectomy with or without reconstruction, and lymph node surgery when needed. My goal is to create a treatment plan that is safe while also considering cosmesis and longterm quality of life.
WHAT’S ONE MISCONCEPTION ABOUT YOUR FIELD THAT YOU’D LOVE TO CORRECT?
One misconception is that breast surgery is a one-size-fits-alldecision. In reality, care needs to be tailored through shared decisionmaking. I want patients to understand their options, feel comfortable asking questions, and participate in a plan that is safe, evidencebased, and right for them.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING IN SOUTHLAKE?
Southlake is a vibrant, accessible community, making it a meaningful place to care for patients. In breast care, collaboration matters, and I appreciate working with local physicians, hospitals, imaging centers, and specialists to coordinate care close to home. It’s meaningful to offer specialized breast surgical care in a setting that feels connected, personal, and committed to high-quality patient care.
Michael Hahn, MD
All-Star Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine 817.421.5000 | AllStarOrtho.com
Paul Tavakolian, MD
Texas Orthopedic Specialists
817.540.4477 | TXOrtho.net
Brian Tobias, DO Hand to Shoulder Center
817.420.9238 | HandToShoulderTexas.com
Stephen Troum, MD Bone & Joint Clinic
817.386.8047 | THCBoneAndJoint.com
Eric Wroten, MD Fort Worth Hand Center 817.877.3277 FortWorthHandCenter.com
HIP & KNEE SURGERY
Nathan Haile, MD
Texas Orthopedic Specialists 817.540.4477 | TXOrtho.net
O. David Taunton Jr., MD
Texas Orthopedic Specialists 817.540.4477 | TXOrtho.net
INFECTIOUS DISEASE
Priya Subramanian, MD
DFW Infectious Diseases
817.916.8877 | DFWID.com
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Meria Aulds, MD
Meria Aulds MD 940.626.0052 SouthwesternHealth.org
Carl DuCharme, DO Destination Health 817.310.6050 DestinationHealth.com
Hiyas Fonte, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics
817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Gerald Harder, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics
817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Kelley Kellogg, DO
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics
817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Nishi Kumar, MD
Baylor Scott & White Trophy Club Family Medicine
817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Loree Lieving, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics
817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Leo Robb, DO
Methodist Family Health CenterColleyville 817.424.3774 MethodistHealthSystem.org
Keith Schorn, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics
817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Brooks Trotter, MD Grapevine Internal Medicine Centre 817.481.8661 GrapevineInternalMedicine.com
NEPHROLOGY
Davinder Singh, MD North Texas Nephrology Associates 817.571.1417 | NTNA.us
NEUROSURGERY
Rob Hruska, MD
Texas Health Neurosurgery and Spine Specialists 817.859.6726 | TexasHealth.org
David Rothbart, MD Spine Team Texas 817.442.9300 | SpineTeamTexas.com
OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY (OB/GYN)
Julia Flowers, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology of North Texas 817.481.5863 | OBGYNofNTX.com
Ravi Gada, MD
Dallas - Fort Worth Fertility Associates 214.363.5966 | DallasFertility.com
Laura Lawrence, MD Dallas - Fort Worth Fertility Associates 214.363.5965 DallasFertility.com
Kerry Neal, MD
Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare 817.424.3112 | GrapevineOB.com
Gladys Tse, MD The Gynecology Spot 817.319.0880 | TheGSpot.com
Kristen Vallery, MD
Texas Health Women’s Care 817.803.1014 | TexasHealth.org
ONCOLOGY
Vikas Aurora, MD
Texas Oncology 817.251.9080 TexasOncology.com
Raetasha Dabney, MD Texas Oncology 817.251.9080 TexasOncology.com
Asad Dean, MD Texas Oncology 817.413.1500 | TexasOncology.com
Ajay Dubey, MD Texas Oncology 817.359.9000 |TexasOncology.com
Tri Le, MD Texas Oncology 817.251.9080 | TexasOncology.com
Scott McCord, MD Texas Oncology 817.359.9000 | TexasOncology.com
Anh Nguyen, DO The Center For Cancer and Blood Disorders 817.759.7000 | TheCenterTX.com
Ravi Patel, MD Texas Oncology 817.251.9080 | TexasOncology.com
Mrugesh Patel, MD Texas Oncology 817.359.9000 | TexasOncology.com
Sibo Zhao, MD Cook Children's Neuro-Oncology 682.885.4007 | CookChildrens.org
OPTHALMOLOGY
Keerthana Bolisetty, MD Alliance Retina 817.617.7678 | TXAllianceRetina.com
Aaleya Korieshi, MD Cornea Consultants of Texas 817.529.3100 CorneaConsultantsTX.com
Robert Lyons, MD Freedom Vision Consultants 817.416.8561 | FVSee.com
Jawad Qureshi, MD Retina Center of Texas 817.865.6800 RetinaCenterTX.com
Jonathan Warminski, MD Retina Center of Texas 817.865.6800 | RetinaCenterTX.com
LEADERS IN SPINE CARE FOR 21 YEARS
Spine Team Texas Expands
For 21 years, Spine Team Texas has been a proud leader in spine care, giving North Texans access to nationally renowned specialists, industry-leading technology, and a multidisciplinary team dedicated to helping patients move beyond pain. Founded by Dr. David Rothbart, the practice was built on the belief that surgery should not be the first option. Instead, Spine Team Texas brings together spine surgeons, pain management physicians, physical therapists, and other specialists to deliver comprehensive, customized treatment plans under one roof.
What sets Spine Team Texas apart is its collaborative approach. Each week, physicians and specialists meet to review complex cases, share expertise, and determine the best treatment options. This unique process ensures every patient benefits from the collective knowledge of the care team and receives a personalized treatment plan.
As Spine Team Texas continues to grow, the practice is expanding into the muscular and joint pain space across all 11 locations, broadening its comprehensive approach to patient care.
Dr. Neil Patel has been named President of Spine Team Texas and is partnering with founder Dr. David Rothbart to continue growing the practice while keeping his legacy at the foundation. Together, they remain committed to advancing the
organization's mission of delivering exceptional patient care and superior customer service.
Spine Team Texas is proud to celebrate four physicians recognized in this year's Top Docs: Dr. David Rothbart in Neurosurgical Spine Surgery, Dr. Neil Patel in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, and Drs. Christina Nguyen and Ryan Reeves in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation/Pain Management.
“Our organization has built an exceptional legacy of patient-centered care, clinical collaboration, and innovation in spine treatment.”
— Dr. Neil Patel, President and Medical Director
(L-R) Ryan Reeves, David Rothbart, Neil Patel, Christina Nguyen
OPTOMETRY
Robert Chu, OD Eyeworks 817.310.3989 | EyeworksGroup.com
Kasey Holdridge, OD Freedom Vision Consultants 817.416.8561 | FVSee.com
Kirk Koogler, OD Southlake Family Eye Care 817.481.1665 SouthlakeFamilyEyeCare.com
Branon Marsh, OD Marsh Eye Center 682.345.9426 | MarshEyeCenter.com
Danny Mathew, OD Eyeworks 817.310.3989 | EyeworksGroup.com
Obed Perez De La Pena, OD Eyeworks 817.310.3989 | EyeworksGroup.com
Linda Potts, OD Eyeworks 817.310.3989 | EyeworksGroup.com
ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
Brandon Brown, DDS
Northern Texas Oral & Facial Surgery
817.329.4979 | NTFOS.com
Mazen Duraini, DDS
Texas Maxiofacial Surgery
817.431.9566 | TXMFS.com
Zahid Lalani, DDS
North Texas Facial & Oral Surgery 817.379.1654 | NTFOS.com
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY
Katherine Bartush, MD Texas Orthopedic Specialists 817.540.4477 | TXOrtho.net
Ben Deheshi, MD DFW Orthopedics
817.332.7867 DFWOrthopedics.com
Kerry Donegan, MD
North Texas Orthopedics & Spine Center
817.481.2121 | NTXOrtho.com
Kristen Fleager, MD
North Texas Orthopedics & Spine Center
817.481.2121 | NTXOrtho.com
Howard Harris, MD
Texas Orthopedic Specialists
817.540.4477 | TXOrtho.net
Amir Khan, MD
Texas Institute of Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine
817.5.310.9546 | TIOSOrthoSports.com
Zubin Khubchandani, MD
Texas Institute of Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine
817.310.9546 | TIOSOrthoSports.com
Wade McKenna, DO
Dr. McKenna’s Orthopedics and Biologics 469.916.4435 | MOABTexas.com
Jeffrey Moffett, MD
North Texas Orthopedics & Spine Center 817.481.2121 | NTXOrtho.com
Michael Nguyen, MD
Texas Orthopedic Specialists 817.540.4477 | TXOrtho.net
Robert Runner, MD
All-Star Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine 817.421.5000 | AllStarOrtho.com
Thomas Schott, MD
All-Star Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine 817.421.5000 | AllStarOrtho.com
Eric Stehly, MD
North Texas Orthopedics & Spine Center 817.481.2121 | NTXOrtho.com
Bing Tsay, MD
All-Star Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine 817.421.5000 AllStarOrtho.com
Scott Wenger, MD
Texas Institute of Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine 817.421.0505 TIOSOrthoSports.com
Nathan Williams, MD North Texas Orthopedics & Spine Center 817.481.2121 | NTXOrtho.com
OTOLARYNGOLOGY
Laura Dominguez, MD ENT Southlake 817.989.2400 ENTSouthlake.com
James Gonzales, MD
Texas Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists 817.952.5508 | TexasENT.net
Kareem Haroun, MD
Texas Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists 817.952.5508 | TexasENT.net
Ellen Ko-Keeney, DO
Texas Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists 817.952.5508 | TexasENT.net
Amy Mettman, MD
Texas Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists 817.952.5508 | TexasENT.net
Robert Owens, MD Owens Ear Center 817.562.3140 | OwensEarCenter.com
Timothy Ragsdale, MD Texas Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists 817.952.5508 | TexasENT.net
Geoffrey Scott, MD North Hills ENT 817.859.8999 | NorthHillsENT.com
PAIN MANAGEMENT
Matthew Barker, DO Integrative Pain & Wellness Center 817.912.1436 | IPAWC.com
Avinash Chavda, MD Virtuoso Spine 214.774.4878 | VSJUSA.com
Raul Llanos, MD North Texas Orthopedics & Spine Center 817.481.2121 | NTXOrtho.com
Manu Mathews, MD Invicta Healthcare 817.381.9650 | InvictaHealthcare.com
Melissa Murphy, MD North Texas Orthopedics & Spine Center 817.481.2121 | NTXOrtho.com
Eric Ray, MD Southlake Pain Center 817.898.7277 SouthlakePainRelief.com
Christopher Tucker, DO North Texas Orthopedics & Spine Center 817.481.2121 | NTXOrtho.com
PEDIATRICS
Arthur Benzick, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics 817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Agatha Hunt, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics 817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Grace Kim, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics 817.912.8800 BSWHealth.com
Eileen O'brien-su, MD
Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine & Pediatrics 817.912.8800 | BSWHealth.com
Paulette See, MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics Haslet 817.347.8504 | CookChildrens.org
Jason Terk, MD Cook Children's Pediatrics Keller 817.431.1450 CookChildrens.org
PERIODONTICS
Matthew Steffer, DDS Southlake Periodontics 817.665.6404 SouthlakePeriodontics.com
PHYSICAL REHABILITATION
Christina Nguyen, DO Spine Team Texas 817.442.9300 | SpineTeamTexas.com
Ryan Reeves, MD Spine Team Texas 817.442.9300 SpineTeamTexas.com
PHYSICAL THERAPY
Josh Robinett, DC Sage Chiropractic 817.722.6099 SageChiropractic.org
Jerrod Wright, DC
Curis Functional Health - Southlake 817.488.4186 GoCuris.com
PODIATRY
Fahad Aslam, DPM Academy Foot & Ankle Specialists 817.424.3668 | TexasFootDoctor.org
Sri Hari Ayyar, DPM North Texas Podiatry Associates 817.283.5151 FootTeamTexas.com
Clifford Bliss, DPM Foot and Ankle Associates of North Texas 817.416.6155 | FAANT.com
Daniel Cairns, DPM
Academy Foot & Ankle Specialists 817.424.3668 TexasFootDoctor.org
Brandt Davis, DPM
Motion Foot and Ankle 817.283.5151
MotionFootAndAnkle.com
Scott Floyd, DPM
Academy Foot & Ankle Specialists 817.424.3668
TexasFootDoctor.org
Christina Nwoko, DPM Foot and Ankle Associates of North Texas 817.416.6155 | FAANT.com
Dan Pierini, DPM Academy Foot & Ankle Specialists 817.424.3668 TexasFootDoctor.org
Nathan Stickney, DPM Foot and Ankle Associates of North Texas 817.416.6155 | FAANT.com
Sara Suttle, DPM
Grace Foot & Ankle 940.464.4514
GraceFootAndAnkle.net
Jeffrey Taylor, DPM North Texas Podiatry Associates 817.283.5151 | FootTeamTexas.com
PSYCHIATRY
Mahta Ostadian, MD
Republic Psychiatry Southlake 817.539.6819 | RepublicPsychiatrySouthlake.com
Amelia Villagomez, MD Mindful 682.200.1744 | FindMindful.com
PULMONOLOGY
Madhuri Kamatham, MD
Dallas Pulmonary & Critical Care 214.960.5681 DallasPulmonary.com
Madhu Kollipara, MD Alliance Pulmonary & Critical Care 817.436.6880 TexasHealth.org
Amit Mann, MD
Dallas Pulmonary & Critical Care 214.960.5681 DallasPulmonary.com
RADIOLOGY
Stephen Kim, MD Radiology Associates of North Texas 817.321.0499 | RADNTX.com
RHEUMATOLOGY
Giovanni Geslani, DO Rheumatology Associates 214.540.0700 NorthTexasRheumatology.com
Joanna Geslani, DO
Rheumatology Associates 214.540.0700
NorthTexasRheumatology.com
Zoran Kurepa, MD Rheumatology Associates 214.540.0700
NorthTexasRheumatology.com
Padmapriya Sivaraman, MD Rheumatology Associates 214.540.0700
NorthTexasRheumatology.com
Anahit Zeynalyan, MD Rheumatology Associates 214.540.0700
NorthTexasRheumatology.com
SPINE SURGERY
Michael Briseño, MD North Texas Orthopedics & Spine Center 817.481.2121 | NTXOrtho.com
Neil Patel, MD Spine Team Texas 817.442.9300 SpineTeamTexas.com
Neil Shah, MD Texas Spine Associates 972.987.0969 TexasSpineMD.com
Stephen Timon, MD
All-Star Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine 817.421.5000 | AllStarOrtho.com
SPORTS MEDICINE
Mark Greenberg, MD All-Star Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine 817.421.5000 AllStarOrtho.com
Kevin Honig, MD All-Star Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine 817.421.5000 AllStarOrtho.com
Walter Hurt, MD
All-Star Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine 817.421.5000 AllStarOrtho.com
UROLOGY
Mark McCurdy, MD
Texas Urology Specialists 817.784.8268
TexasUrologySpecialists.com
The
Carroll Alum and Texas Rangers Pitcher Talks Homecomings and Heat
For Tyler Alexander, pitching for the Texas Rangers isn't just another stop in a professional baseball career — it's a return to the place that helped shape him. The Southlake Carroll graduate of 2013 and TCU alum has spent eight years building a Major League career across the Midwest and Northeast before findinghimself back in North Texas, this time wearing a Rangers uniform. Now settled in Aledo full-time with his wife, this relief pitcher is rediscovering the places, people and traditions that made the area feel like home long before he ever stepped on a big-league mound. Whether it's reconnecting with former coaches, revisiting favorite restaurants, or learning from some of baseball's biggest names—en route to a career-best 2.21 ERA at the All-Star break — Alexander is embracing a homecoming years in the making.
COMING HOME TO NORTH TEXAS MEANS… finally getting to enjoy the house we bought in Aledo back in 2021. For years it was mostly an offseson home. Now we actually get to live here.
SOUTHLAKE STILL FEELS LIKE HOME...because so many of the places and people are still part of our lives. We go back quite a bit. Sushi Sam is our favorite sushi spot. My wife still gets her nails done in Southlake. I still love stopping by Duff' when I can. Feedstore is legendary. Every time we're in the area there's always something that brings us back.
SOME THINGS NEVER CHANGE… like making the drive to the Roanoke Babe's [Chicken Dinner House]. There are two locations closer to our house, but that's the one we always go to. My father-in-law lives in Trophy Club, and my wife loves spending time in the Stockyards, so we're constantly findingreasons to be around the area.
I’M ACTUALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO… the Texas heat. A lot of people probably think that's crazy, but it's nostalgic for me. It reminds me of being a kid, running around all day, playing baseball and having fun. I've spent so much time in
Detroit [where I was drafted] and the Northeast since college, and while those summers are beautiful, there's just something about Texas heat that feels like home.
THE RANGERS PITCHING STAFF IS SPECIAL... because we have such a good mix of experience and young talent. You've got veterans like Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi, guys who have done everything in this game, and then young studs like Jack Leiter and Kumar Rocker. The bullpen has been phenomenal too. Everybody knows their role and takes pride in doing their job.
LEARNING FROM DEGROM AND EOVALDI HAS BEEN… pretty surreal. Those guys were pitching in the big leagues when I was still in high school. When I firt got here, I spent a lot of time watching them work and getting to know them. They're elite pitchers, but they're also just great people. They're human beings, not robots, and they've been incredibly helpful.
WHAT STANDS OUT MOST ABOUT THIS CLUBHOUSE… is the people. The players, coaches, and staffhave all been awesome. From the moment I arrived, everyone made me feel welcome. It's a great group to be around every day.
FIVE MINUTES with ...
TYLER ALEXANDER
local FLAVOR
SIP, SIP, HOORAY
Homegrown NFL star Quinn Ewers joins the celebration at JuiceLand.
Southlake's New Squeeze
Fan-Favorite Smoothie Bar Lands in Town
It is not every day that Southlake sees a line stretching down the block for smoothies — or a roller-skating banana peeling down the sidewalk.
But that was the precisely the scene at JuiceLand's grand opening celebration in May, where former Carroll Dragon football standout, University of Texas quarterback and current Miami Dolphin Quinn Ewers signed autographs for fans eager for a firt taste of the Austin-born favorite smoothie station. The whole morning felt as lively, wholesome, and refreshing as the smoothies themselves.
After a soft opening in April, JuiceLand has quickly blended into the Southlake routine. The cult-favorite juice bar, which firt built its following in Austin, is known for fresh ingredients, raw juices, superfood smoothies, wellness shots, matcha lattes, bowls, wraps, and plant-based meals. It is the kind of place that works after a workout, during a lunch break, between errands, or anytime a craving hits for something that feels both healthy and indulgent.
Locals have already staked their claims. The Honey Beary — banana, blueberries, peanut butter, almond milk, and Texas wildflwer honey — has become the afterworkout order for the boutique fitnes studio crowd, while the Acai Bowl has quietly earned elite summer-snack status among the lunch rush. Then, there’s the Strawberry Cloud, which layers strawberries and coconut milk under a cloud of house-made whipped coconut. Think of it as Southlake's answer to the celebrity-favorite dkin-boosting strawberry smoothie that has been all over social media — same glow, no L.A. price tag.
Southlake has also gotten a sip of its own. The Dragonberry Blitz was created exclusively for this location, with proceeds supporting Dragon Youth Sports, making it an easy hometown favorite.
Founded by Matt Shook in 2001 after a life-changing stop at a juice bar near Austin's Barton Springs Pool, JuiceLand has always been fueled by fun, community and a belief that fresh food can help people feel their best.
Salsa Wars
When the Chips Are Down and the Heat Is Up
In Texas, everyone's a salsa connoisseur. Strong opinions. Big feelings. A lot of hills to die on.
Some champion the deep, fiery heat of a salsa with roasted árbol chili — but we know that kind of heat isn't for everyone. Some people want brightness. Fresh tomato. A salsa that doesn't announce itself quite so loudly… or burn the tongue for quite as long. And that's the beauty of it: there's truly a salsa for everyone.
Around here, chips and salsa are not a warm-up act. They're the opening scene. They foreshadow whether the rest of the meal is going to deliver. And, if we're honest, sometimes they're the reason half of the entrees go home in a box. So when the Southlake
Style team decided to hold a blind chips-and-salsa taste test, we knew one thing going in: everyone already had an opinion.
That was the point. Each salsa was chosen because it was someone's favorite. The question was simple: once the labels came off, would loyalty hold?
Torchy's (����)
Torchy's Roja leads with smoke. Made with roasted tomatoes, jalapeños, onions, garlic, and chiles de árbol, it builds slowly — smoky and a little sweet at first, then getting hotter as it lingers. It was our staff writer Tim's top pick going in, and after the blind test, it wasn't hard to see why.
Uncle Julio's (��)
Uncle Julio's salsa is made fresh daily with roasted tomatoes, jalapeños, onions, garlic, and cilantro — and the fire-roasted flavorcomes through clean. A few tasters noted it ran a little thin, but not Tim. He came in backing Torchy's and left the contest giving Uncle Julio's salsa the top spot. The chips, though? Torchy's kept that crown.
Chili's (��)
Chili's was the nostalgia pick that held its ground. Marketing coordinator Katie chose it before the tasting and, after sampling everything blind, still crowned it her favorite — and she didn't even need the salsa to findit. The chips gave it away first: thin, salty, consistent. The salsa matched: smooth, mild, tomato-forward with just enough of a watery quality that somehow works in its favor. It doesn't try to surprise you. For Katie, that consistency was the whole point.
Muchacho (red — ������ / verde — ���� )
Muchacho brought two contenders: a signature red with fresh, chunky texture and a bold kick that builds as it goes, and a verde with tomatillo brightness and a longer, slower heat. The red was the star — vibrant, tomato-forward and just spicy enough to keep you reaching back in. Our intern, Gabriella, who came in as a Mi Cocina loyalist, didn't hesitate: Muchacho's red was her top salsa of the day. Same for our associate publisher, Katelynn. Nicole, co-founder and sales director - and a Mesero devotee, crossed over too, preferring Muchacho's red over her usual favorite. The chips divided the room, big and thick, with a sweetness some loved and others found a little bland. But the salsa? That earned its fans.
Mesero (Mesero verde — ���� / red — ���� / Pachi Pachi — ����)
Mesero may have been the most dynamic presence at the table: three salsas, three completely different personalities. The verde, bright with tomatillo, lime and chunks of avocado, was the day's most talked-about salsa. The red came in fresh and chunky. And then there was the orange Pachi Pachi. "Spicy and so flavorful— and really different from all of the others," said Kelly, our officemanager, who came in already a believer and left with zero regrets. Co-founder and publisher Mike came in backing Muchacho but handed his overall top spot to Mesero. The chips split the room clean down the middle: Mike and Kelly called them the best of the day — thick, crunchy, with a fresh corn flaor. Tim and Katie disagreed. Sometimes the chip is its own hill to die on.
Mi Cocina (����)
Mi Cocina’s salsa — garlic-forward, cumin-laced, with a distinctive smokiness — had a more mixed showing. But for editor Cynthia, this one is personal. She’s been a Mi Cocina fan for years, and her go-to order is the Rico Salad with salsa instead of dressing. Not traditional. Completely delicious. And she’s clearly not alone — the 45-minute wait on any given Friday or Saturday is proof that Mi Cocina has never stopped being a crowd favorite. Some salsas win the room. This one feels like home.
SPICE SCALE
�� Mild: Easygoing and crowd-friendly.
���� Medium: A little kick, a little linger.
������ Hot: Big flvor, bigger kick.
23 Flavors Per Scoop
An Ode to Milwaukee Joe’s (and Dr Pepper Ice Cream)
If you've spent any time in Southlake Town Square on a warm summer evening, you’re familiar with a specificscene: Parents negotiating "just one scoop," kids tugging them toward the familiar storefront, and a line that often stretches around the corner toward Starbucks.
For decades, one tradition has remained constant: grabbing a cone at Milwaukee Joe's.
Long before many of today's retailers arrived, Milwaukee Joe's was already serving up smiles in Southlake. Founded in 1995, the beloved local brand became one of the original, pioneering tenants when Town Square firt opened its doors in 1999. While storefronts and shopping trends have come and gone over the last few decades, this neighborhood staple has remained an anchor of local life, churning out its super-premium, small-batch ice cream right on Main Street. It’s become far more than just a quick dessert stop —it’s a piece of living Southlake history and a timeless part of the community experience.
And among the dozens of tempting flvors in the display case, one has earned an almost mythical status in Texas: Dr Pepper. In the Lone Star State, the soda is practically its own food group, so it feels only fittingthat one of Southlake's most enduring local businesses would transform the state's favorite soft drink into one of its signature scoops.
If you haven't tried it yet, you might expect a gimmick. Instead, the firt spoonful surprises almost everyone. Rather than tasting like vanilla ice cream mixed with soda, it's remarkably smooth and creamy, with notes of cherry and caramel followed by the subtle spice that has made Dr Pepper famous for generations. It's nostalgic without being overly sweet and somehow manages to feel both comforting and refreshing at the same time.
That's what makes the flvor — and Milwaukee Joe's itself — so memorable. It's uniquely Texan, unmistakably Southlake and a reminder that sometimes the places that become local institutions aren't the newest or trendiest. They're the ones that quietly become part of our traditions, year after year.
So if this summer has you craving something cold, consider this your excuse to join the line. Whether you're introducing your kids to their firt scoop or simply ordering the Dr Pepper flvor you've loved for years, you're taking part in a Southlake tradition that's stood the test of time.
Milwaukee Joe's 1417 Main Street, Southlake
817.251.1667
MilwaukeeJoesIceCream.com
by
Photos
Maribel Morales
Best in Show
Our Favorite Rides, Eats, and Can’t-Miss Moments at Frisco's Universal Kids Resort
Instead of towering thrill rides and all-day marathons, Universal's newest theme park is built for younger kids and the families chasing first roller coasters, splash-pad giggles, character hugs, and the inevitable "five more minutes" before heading home. It's a place where more intimately-sized attractions, interactive play areas, and familiar faces from Shrek, SpongeBob SquarePants, Jurassic World, Minions and more create the kinds of moments children will talk about long after the vacation ends.
After spending a day exploring the park, we realized the best way to understand Universal Kids Resort isn't by listing every ride or attraction, but by recognizing the moments families will actually remember.
So, because every theme park deserves a few superlatives, we present the inaugural Universal Kids Resort Awards.
BEST FIRST COASTER
Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster
Every kid remembers their firstroller coaster. Universal wisely keeps this one exciting without crossing into
intimidating territory. It's a fast coaster with just enough dinosaur-fueled adventure to leave an impression — and maybe convince a few future thrill-seekers they're ready for bigger rides someday.
Be warned – this is a 30-second ride, but it’s faster than you think. Leave your phone, wallet, and keys with a non-rider.
MOST LIKELY TO CREATE A SOUVENIR REQUEST
The Universal Kids Resort Store
Parents, consider yourselves warned. Located in the Isle of Curiosity, the flagshipstore gathers merchandise from all seven lands under one roof. Plush dinosaurs, Minions gear, Trolls accessories, and plenty of character-themed treasures will test even the strongest family budget.
And like much of the park, it’s designed for volume — which means prices across food, drinks, and souvenirs lean theme-park standard. It adds up quickly, especially for families planning a full day.
MOST UNEXPECTED PARENT FAVORITE Shrek's Swamp
On paper, a giant swamp doesn't sound like the place adults would gravitate toward. In reality, the land's surprisingly charming atmosphere — including an easy train ride around a Shrekthemed track — make it one of the most enjoyable areas in the park. The big green guy has spent two decades proving he's more than an ogre. This land continues the trend.
It also happens to offer a bit of breathing room compared to some of the more exposed walkways elsewhere, which parents will appreciate once the sun is fully overhead.
BEST PLACE TO COOL OFF
SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom
Texas summers don't play around, and neither does Bikini Bottom. This section of the park quickly earns its reputation as the unofficialafternoon headquarters with its wet-and-dry play areas. If your family's energy starts melting faster than an ice cream cone, this is where you'll want to be. There’s even a ride that encourages shooting water guns at each other.
It’s also one of the few places where getting soaked feels less like a risk and more like a strategy.
RESORT MAP
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
One quick reality check: this is an outdoor Texas theme park, and summer heat is part of the experience. Bring sunscreen (then reapply it), comfortable shoes, and a refillable water bottl . Shade is still limited in several areas, and the park's wide concrete walkways can make the afternoon sun feel especially intense. Planning a few indoor attractions or splashzone breaks throughout the day will make for a much more comfortable visit.
Visit UniversalKidsResort.com for more details.
MOST LIKELY TO REQUIRE A CHANGE OF CLOTHES
Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club
In theory, you can make it through the area dry. In reality, the bumpy boat ride makes that outcome highly unlikely, as even those who don’t get on the ride are at risk of a splash zone surprise. There’s also a golf cart-style ride, open play areas, and the constant laugh of Minions echoing through speakers, which is either chaotic or perfect depending on your tolerance for yellow minions.
MOST LIKELY TO HEAR "FIVE MORE MINUTES"
TrollsFest
Parents know those three words are rarely followed by only fiveminutes. Between the bright colors, music, dancing, and open play opportunities, TrollsFest has a way of convincing kids they're not quite ready to leave. Shows with Queen Poppy run once an hour, too, so consider this your official warning
BEST STAYCATION UPGRADE
Universal Kids Resort Hotel
The biggest surprise may be how much easier the experience becomes with an overnight stay. Located steps from the park entrance, the 300-room hotel transforms what could be a rushed day trip into a relaxed family getaway. Bunk beds, a pool, a game room and, most importantly, easy access to the park make it feel like part of the attraction rather than simply a place to sleep.
THE OVERALL WINNER
The Kid-First Experience
The real achievement isn't a ride, a store, or a themed land. It's the fact that Universal built a park where a 3-year-old and a 10-year-old can want the same thing at the same time. That's harder than it sounds — most theme parks solve for age gaps by giving everyone something separate to do. Here, the water guns in Bikini Bottom land the same way for a toddler soaking her socks by accident and a preteen trying to out-aim his sister. While the park certainly skews younger, it's built less around separating age groups and more around what makes any kid want to do something instead of watch it.
arts and CULTURE
Benson Boone makes a flipping awesome return to DFW this August
THE FRAY & DASHBOARD
CONFESSIONAL
AUGUST 1
august 1
TOYOTA MUSIC FACTORY | If early-2000s playlists still have a special place in your heart, this one's for you. The Fray and Dashboard Confessional are teaming up for the Summer of Light Tour, stopping at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory on Aug. 1. Fans can expect an evening packed with singalong favorites like "How to Save a Life," "Over My Head (Cable Car)," "Hands Down" and "Vindicated," making it a can't-miss night of nostalgia.
JIMMY BUFFETT'S CORAL REEFER BAND
AUGUST 7
DICKIES ARENA | The music and spirit of Jimmy Buffett live on as the Coral Reefer Band brings an evening of tropical rock favorites to Fort Worth. Fans can expect islandinspired classics, laid-back vibes and a celebration of the legendary singer-songwriter's enduring musical legacy.
NE-YO & AKON: NIGHTS LIKE THIS TOUR
AUGUST 8
DOS EQUIS PAVILION | Two of R&B’s most recognizable hitmakers share the stage as NE-YO and Akon bring the Nights Like This Tour to Dallas. Packed with chart-topping singles and early-2000s nostalgia, the concert promises a high-energy evening of smooth vocals, danceable beats and fan favorites.
MEGAN MORONEY
AUGUST 14
AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER | One of country music’s fastest-rising stars, Megan Moroney brings her headline tour to Dallas following a breakout run of chart success. Known for her sharp songwriting, Southern charm and viral hits, Moroney has quickly become one of the genre’s most talked-about new voices.
ELLA LANGLEY: THE DANDELION TOUR
AUGUST 15
DICKIES ARENA | Fresh offa meteoric rise in country music, Ella Langley brings The Dandelion Tour to Fort Worth. With a growing catalog of fan-favorite songs and a reputation for energetic live performances, Langley continues to establish herself as one of Nashville’s most exciting emerging artists. august 15
MATCHBOX TWENTY
AUGUST 15
CHOCTAW GRAND THEATER | Rob Thomas and Matchbox Twenty return with a night packed with alternativerock favorites that helped definethe late ’90s and early 2000s. Fans can expect classics like “3AM,” “Push” and “Unwell” alongside newer material from one of the era’s most enduring bands.
THE ALL-AMERICAN REJECTS
AUGUST 15
WINSTAR WORLD CASINO | Pop-punk nostalgia takes center stage as The All-American Rejects bring their catalog of early-2000s hits to WinStar. From “Swing, Swing” to “Dirty Little Secret,” the Oklahoma-born band delivers a high-energy concert filledwith singalong favorites.
ARTS & CULTURE events
BENSON BOONE: WANTED MAN TOUR
AUGUST 21
AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER | Pop sensation Benson Boone brings his Wanted Man Tour to Dallas following a breakout year fueled by massive streaming success and sold-out performances. Known for soaring vocals and emotional songwriting, Boone’s live show combines arenasized energy with heartfelt storytelling.
CHICAGO & STYX
AUGUST 22
august 22
WINSTAR WORLD CASINO | Classic rock giants Chicago and Styx join forces for a powerhouse co-headlining concert featuring decades of hits. From soaring harmonies and horn-driven classics to arena-rock anthems, the legendary bands off er an unforgettable night of timeless music.
ZACH BRYAN
AUGUST 22
AT&T STADIUM, ARLINGTON | One of the most anticipated concerts of the year arrives at AT&T Stadium as country superstar Zach Bryan takes the stage for a massive North Texas performance. Known for his raw lyrics and passionate fanbase, Bryan continues to redefinemodern country music with sold-out stadium shows nationwide.
311 & DIRTY HEADS
AUGUST 25
august 25
TOYOTA MUSIC FACTORY | Rock, reggae, and summer vibes collide when 311 and Dirty Heads bring their So Glad You Made It Tour to The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory in Irving on Aug. 25. Joined by Atmosphere and Rome, the stacked lineup promises an evening of feel-good energy, blending 311 favorites like “Amber” and “Down” with Dirty Heads hits including “Vacation” and “Lay Me Down.”
LIL WAYNE & 2 CHAINZ: 20 YEARS OF CARTER CLASSICS
AUGUST 27
august 27
DICKIES ARENA | Hip-hop heavyweights Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz celebrate two decades of Carter-era classics with a concert showcasing some of rap’s most influential songs. Fans can expect a high-energy production featuring career-spanning hits and crowd favorites.
CRATE & BARREL MAKES A STYLISH RETURN
On Wednesday, June 24, Crate & Barrel welcomed over a hundred VIPs to celebrate the opening of their newest Dallas-Forth Worth location at Southlake Town Square. Guests were greeted with live entertainment, light bites and refreshments as well as a photo booth and the option to live engrave the gifts attendees received. The night was a positive reintroduction for Crate & Barrel as it has returned to Southlake after about a decade since its previous location closed.
out and ABOUT
JUNE ISSUE, WESTERN STYLE CELEBRATING WITH BARBECUE, COWBOYS & GOOD FRIENDS
PHOTOS BY MIKE LEWIS
POP AND CIRCUMSTANCE
Trophy Club celebrated the 4th with a sky full of sparkle
