July 2023

EditorTalk SL

WONDER WOMEN

This issue marks our 8th Annual 10 ‘Most Inspirational, Accomplished & Engaging Women of Tarrant County’ issue. Each year, we have asked our readers and the community to nominate incredible women they know who embody this statement:

“She’s smart and successful. She’s involved in her community and supports organizations that are important to her by donating her time, her resources and her talents. She inspires others with her relentless pursuit of kindness and generosity—always leading by example.

And each year, we get some amazing emails from people who have been inspired by the women they nominate. Tarrant County boasts a remarkable array of inspirational, accomplished and engaging women who have made indelible contributions to their communities. From influential community leaders to passionate educators and dedicated advocates, these women showcase unwavering determination to give back to others. They have brought positive change and uplifted countless lives. Their charitable spirits and servant’s hearts serve as a beacon of inspiration. Their stories and achievements listed here in this issue resonate and motivate others to reach for their dreams and make a difference in their own communities (starting on page 36).

It is remarkable how many women are nominated each and every year. I wonder if maybe in year 10 we should have a Top 10 list of all-stars like a Pro Bowl of sorts for the 10 women who consistently inspire and engage others with their kindness and achievements.

Our cover story showcases Gist & Hayes Restorative / Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Gist was the first dentist in Southlake and after 40 years of transforming his patients lives with smile makeovers, he’s earned the respect of the community, his patients, his dental team and his peers alike. His gold standard of care is unsurpassed in the dental industry and his patients are all too happy to boast about their experiences at their practice (starting on page 30).

Some of you receive Society Life in your mailboxes, others pick it up in stands or read digitally online—now sign up for our flip-page e-magazine in your email inbox monthly. Don’t miss an issue highlighting the influential businesses and people of Northeast Tarrant. See you next month!

ELENA ELLIS Publisher / Editorial Director

elena@societylifemagazine.com

let’s get social @

BY ELENA ELLIS

cloud slides

When it’s summer, I’m in flip-flops— until I wore cloud slides. Everyone is wearing them because they are so dang comfortable. I love all the fun colors they come in too and depending on the brand you choose they’re super cheap at just $10-30 a pair.

amazon.com

THINGS COMFORT

y-brush electric toothbrush

I don’t hate brushing my teeth, but my twins do, so I love this one because they have an adult and a child version. Thanks to its arched shape you can brush your teeth and take care of your gums in one ultrafast motion. Literally like 10 seconds and you are done!

y-brush.com

HEALTH

lemongrass farms bug sprays

Nothing ruins summer fun like mosquitoes and flies! Here’s the answer. Lemongrass Farms products prevent these pests from ruining outings. They offer insect repellents for kids and adults, plus a food-grade, lemon-citrus-scented fly repellent to keep flies away while dining outdoors.

amazon.com

lowes.com

walmart.com

yuppielife fur bean bag

In my kid’s upstairs gameroom, we opted for four of these huge bean bags over a traditional sofa. At a very generous four feet round they are truly adult-sized and really machine washable. So soft and comfortable. It’s a great place to nap cocooned in their softness. They bring out the kid in anyone! amazon.com

HOME STYLE

I LOVE in this season

I am obsessed... as a busy mom of 3 I need a tote that holds everything! My kids literally hold nothing and expect me to magically have it all in my bag. Y’all this bag is as durable as it is beautiful—designed and built to last season after season. Plus, the pink pop on the inside lining just makes me smile :) shhandbags.com

swatzell + heilig charleston tote blue

FaithFull SL

STRENGTHEN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD AND LIVE A FULFILLING, FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN LIFE

BY TRISHA MITCHELL

THE BEAUTY WITHIN

It’s been said that “eyes are drawn to very beautiful people.” Comparably, others have also expressed that a person's character is more important than how they look, because beauty is only “skin deep.”

Considering the related, but frictional statements above, can we each define what is beautiful, if “beauty is in the eye of the beholder?” Not necessarily. Granted, there will always be various definitions of beauty. We live in a society where the media constantly shifts the ideology of “eye candy.”

Years ago, being slender with few curves was the attractive body type for supermodels. Now, plump lips and wide hips have ascended to become the desirable standard. While Psalms 139:14 assures us that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made,” countless women (and men) risk their lives seeking approval that is only attainable through Jesus Christ. Let’s be real! The “beauty” yardstick being strictly measured at 36 inches—has passed! Reason being, we have disregarded what God defines as beautiful and adapted to the world’s ever-changing script. “Looking" beautiful has become such an epitome of success that it has evolved to idolatry. Hence, plastic surgeons are more highly sought than primary care physicians. People are more concerned with their physical attributes than with their physical health. The “temple” has been exchanged for a template, created by the world to prevent people from seeking and seeing their “true” beauty.

In 1 Peter 3:3-4, we learn that true “beauty does not come from outward adornments, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Rather, the inner self; the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”

God looks beyond the superficial and focuses on our spirituality and morality. Such was the case in 1 Samuel 16. God gave Samuel an important assignment: Go to Bethlehem, to Jesse’s house, and find Israel’s next king. Upon arrival, he laid eyes upon Jesse’s oldest son, Eliab. Samuel was sure he had found the new king (verse 6). After all, Eliab was tall, dark, and handsome. All the attributes needed to rule, right?

Not in God’s eyes. As far as God was concerned, good looks were not a prerequisite to rule and reign. Unimpressed, God advised Samuel to look past the outward appearances. Besides, God had already rejected this particular son. God had his eyes set on someone with a “different” heart (1

— Proverbs 31:30

Samuel 13:14; 16:7). Lest we forget, Israel’s first king, was tall and handsome (1 Samuel 9:2). And we all know how that turned out.

Samuel continued to examine all seven of Jesse’s sons. But he noticed God was not pleased with any of them. God was looking for someone with a faithful heart. And He didn’t find it in any of these. As Samuel’s choices began to diminish, he asked, “Are these all the sons you have?” (1 Samuel 16:11) Reluctantly, Jesse responded “I have a younger son caring for the sheep.” Proof that sometimes our own family members will overlook our worth. But praise be to God Who sees the value in us when others don’t! Which is exactly what happened. They sent for the youngest boy and upon his arrival, the Lord immediately announced, “this is the one” (1 Samuel 16:12). God chose David! He was filthy and flawed. Yet, he was faithful. He was the perfect person for this position because he was “a man after God’s heart” (1 Samuel 13:14).

David’s story reminds us just how impossible it is to determine a person’s level of integrity based on their appearance. Having a perfectly powdered nose won’t conceal a violent temper, no more than a smooth brushed beard can cover up character issues. Nevertheless, God manufactured our heart to function as a moral compass. He uses it to examine our spiritual and moral propensities. Everything we do originates from it (Proverbs 4:23).

2 Chronicles 16:9 explains that God continually searches the earth for people whose heart is perfect towards Him. As He knew David, He knows each of us (Psalm 139). He knows our thoughts, our fears, our flaws, and our future. Yes! Makeup covers our blemishes. Outfits camouflage our flaws. Yet, neither can disguise what lies within the heart. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with looking your best, having a kind heart is far more important to God than lustrous hair. Sure, keep your hair strands in place. But keep your heart aligned as well.

“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

PUBLISHER / CREATIVE DIRECTOR

ELENA ELLIS 817.657.2948

ELENA@societylifemagazine.com

ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR

SARAH SCHILLO 817.914.8013

SARAH@societylifemagazine.com

ADVERTISING SALES

DEBBIE ROACH 817.715.5760

DEBBIE@societylifemagazine.com

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KIMBERLEY@societylifemagazine.com

ADMINISTRATION

CINDIA LEE

DISTRIBUTION

EMIL CARL

PRODUCTION

CHERYL RYBKA

PHOTOGRAPHERS

VERA CROSBY

LORRAINE HAAN-STEWART

ALYCIA SAVAGE

COLUMNISTS / WRITERS

SANDY LOWE

MARY MACDOWELL

TRISHA MITCHELL

JON SALINSKY

SHANNON SALINSKY

JESSICA SERNA

JENNIFER SLOAN

KATIE-ROSE WATSON

INTERESTED IN FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES?

Society Life Magazine is always on the lookout for talented writers and photographers to join our team. If you are interested in learning more, please call or email the publisher at contact above.

SocietyLifeMagazine.com

Started May 2006

© 2023 Caye Publishing Group, Inc.

TO WIN HER HAND

If you’re looking to cool off during the torrid Texas summer, you might want to stock up on Regency romance novels. According to Wikipedia, the most traditional Regency romances “feature a great deal of fast-paced dialogue… and very little explicit sex or discussion of sex.” Regency novels are generally set during the period from 1811 to 1820 when George, Prince of Wales, governed Britain as Regent because of his father George the III’s madness. (Visit Regency Town House at rth.org)

Jen Geigle Johnson, a resident of Southlake, has published a number of Regency romances. Her latest is “To Win Her Hand.” Main characters have been completely unlucky in love. The Lord Charles Featherstone and Lady Emmeline Loveluck are both known in business as “matchmakers.” He advises gentlemen and she advises ladies how to choose, interest and woo a member of the opposite sex. Both are forced into labor because of financial need, which comes as pretty refreshing in this genre. While they work and socialize with the mega-rich, neither of them qualifies for that group.

One of the attractions of a well-turned romance rests in certain obstacles that

stand in the way of the intended couple. These tropes create tension while at the same time provide a cozy and familiar atmosphere where we know all will eventually turn out right. Johnson uses a number of these tropes, including the character who has been burned and plans to never love again. As Lady Loveluck says, “I’ll never marry again. I’ll never trust another man enough for him to have power over me.”

Another familiar trope includes an accident, which enables the couple to share a night away from the prying eyes and gossiping tongues of their social circle.

As you can already see, Lady Loveluck does not function as a timid and silent woman of her time. She knows what she wants and she leads her life independently. She even joins a club of widows whose goals and experiences are similar to her own.

Lady Loveluck revealing her financial woes to Lord Featherstone seems a bit out of character for a woman so bent on taking care of herself. And there seems to be little evidence for her feeling Lord Featherstone is not trustworthy. But, dear reader, know that a satisfying resolution clears up all the challenges.

A MAN TO TEACH MEN HOW TO WIN A WOMAN'S HAND. A WOMAN WHO CANNOT BE WON.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jen Geigle Johnson discovered her love for uncovering fascinating pieces of history while kayaking on the Thames near London as a young teenager. Now an award-winning author and mother of six, she loves to share bits of history that might otherwise be forgotten. Whether in Regency England, the French Revolution, or Colonial America, her romance novels are much like life is supposed to be—full of adventure. She is a member of the RWA, the SCBWI, and Storymakers. She is also the chair of the Lonestar.Ink writing conference. Her first book, The Nobleman’s Daughter was published November 2017. And her second, Scarlet in May 2018. Her books are available on Amazon.

PHOTOGRAPHY ....... Alycia Savage, Savage Studio

PICTURED ......................................... GIST & HAYES

RESTORATIVE / COSMETIC DENTISTRY (on right)

Dr. Greg Gist, DDS and (left) Dr. Carter Hayes, DDS

SOCIAL MEDIA @SocietyLifeMag

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In addition to being direct mailed to a select group of local homes, Society Life Magazine can be picked up for free in the entry lobby in the free racks at these Northeast Tarrant County grocers: Market Street, Albertsons and Tom Thumb, as well as in many local businesses and chambers. If the grocery store stands are in need of restocking our latest issue, please request a copy at: societylifemag@verizon.net

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A SMALL PART OF A BIGGER STORY

TidBits

NEW FUN-SIZED FAIR ATTRACTIONS FOR EVERYONE STATE FAIR OF TEXAS COMING SEPT 29 THRU OCT 22, 2023

MEOW WOLF NOW OPEN IMMERSIVE INTERACTIVE ART

Arts and entertainment company Meow Wolf has opened The Real Unreal to the public. This is the fourth immersive art exhibition opened by the Santa Febased company and was crafted by 40 Texas-based artists and over 150 Meow Wolf artists and fabricators. Nestled inside Grapevine Mills, a mall, guests enter the Delaney family home and explore its everyday ephemera which hint at a mysterious disappearance. In signature Meow Wolf fashion, what happens next is a swift freefall down a narrative rabbit hole. Guests will revel in spectacle after spectacle which materialize into a triumph of multisensory art. Meow Wolf experiences engage curious seekers through this discovery and play. Tickets for The Real Unreal are available for purchase for $50 for Adult General Admission and $45 for Children and can be booked online in advance of your visit. Please go to:

tickets: meowwolf.com

The State Fair of Texas is the most Texan place on earth, and nothing is more Texan then having fun! On any given day, there are tons of family-friendly activities and exhibits, all free with your admission ticket. Here are some of the new attractions for this year’s fair! Soap Bubble Circus performs Guinness World Record-breaking feats of bubble-ology. You’ll see a snowman dancing across a tightrope, an exploding volcano, and more at this show. Street Circus is a new addition where a husband and wife-duo bring their acrobatic act to the fair showcasing hand-to-hand acrobatics, hula hoops, handstands, contortion, comedy, and more. Dinosaurs at the Lagoon offers the wonders of the prehistoric area featuring 10 life-sized dinosaurs. The brandnew Dinosaurs at the Lagoon exhibit brings together fun and bilingual educational entertainment for the whole family. Be sure to get your photo with a 57-foot-tall Alamosaurus! For some Dino Tales join Dr. Diggie-Bones at her dig site for an interactive story time focused on archeological digs, pre-historic creatures, and more! In the sweltering Texas heat, what better way is there to cool off than a water balloon fight? You’re in luck, Acrobuffos brings Water Bombs to the fair. Grab a seat and prepare to be entertained by this interactive and epic water balloon fight. Just be sure you bring an umbrella if you don’t want to get wet! Then, start holiday celebrations early with beautifully decorated Texas Christmas trees on display for you and the whole family to see. World-renowned street performer Sara Twister brings her contortionist and archery skills to the fair featuring mind-and-body-bending archery trick shots and plenty of comedy. Finally, while visiting the State Fair of Texas visit the Texas Tech Centennial Exhibit in the Hall of State. The exhibition will focus on Texas Tech’s first 100 years, including its history and the heritage of its unique Spanish Renaissance architecture. The exhibit will also showcase significant achievements in athletics and will place a spotlight on Tech’s most impressive and influential people. Many of the fan favorites will also be back and better than ever so plan to stop by to say hi to Big Tex!

bigtex.com

SL

TidBits

summerfest

SUMMERFEST OF MORE AT THE GAYLORD TEXAN DISCOVER THE VACATION YOU’VE ALWAYS DREAMED OF

Gaylord Texan Resort invites guests to experience more of what they love this summer: more thrills, more adventure, more fun, more delight, more memories. Throughout the resort, guests can discover delicious dining, relax in the award-winning spa, and explore family-friendly pirate and princess-themed activities as part of their 20th annual SummerFest celebration. Outside, guests can experience even more fun-in-the-sun at Paradise Springs, the resort’s 10-acre waterpark and lazy river complex.

MORE THRILLS Nothing says summer like a lazy river, giant water tree house, winding waterslides, and family lagoon. Chill out in the shade by renting your own private cabana or enjoy a guaranteed spot by the pool with premium poolside lounge seating.

MORE ADVENTURE This year, the resort will feature an Adventure Kids’ Clubhouse where guests can tune into their inner artist and create treasured crafts to take home. Not to miss are the The Adventure Kids’: Hidden Treasure Hide & Sea-K that takes guests on a swashbuckling scavenger hunt to search for clues throughout the resort’s atriums, and the interactive live show, Adventure Kids’: Join the Club, featuring Alfie the Armadillo, Layla the Longhorn, and everyone's favorite Adventure Kid, Sophie, as they learn, imagine, explore, and discover the wonders of summer.

MORE DELIGHT Adults 21 and up can experience a variety of inventive culinary events—from chef-curated food and spirit pairings to sommelier-led wine dinners. And for those looking to relax and unwind, Relâche Spa offers treatments for mind, body and soul—facials, massages, manicures... plus spa guests can also enjoy the sauna, steam room, and slumber lounge. Then, Join us on the weekends at the Glass Cactus for live entertainment, craft cocktails, delicious food, and breathtaking lake views.

SummerFest at Gaylord Texan Resort takes place May 19th until September 4th, 2023

CELEBRATE 20TH ANNUAL SUMMER OF MORE PREMIER RESORT DESTINATION OF THE SOUTHWEST

SUMMER CIRQUE Returns this season by popular demand with some new acts to both amaze and amuse you. This live show takes guests on an exciting journey with a lone soul who dreams of becoming a pirate, and along the way meets daring aerial artistes, show-stopping balancing acts, and incredible specialty performers, each delivering breathtaking feats that are sure to stun the audience.

SUMMERFEST

Thru September 4th, 2023

There is even more fun to be had with these family-friendly events and activities at Summerfest:

• The Hidden Treasure Hide and Sea-K is a swashbuckling scavenger hunt through resort atriums with a long-lost pirate map. Wander through 4 acres to uncover hidden gems in this interactive treasure quest.

• Work together in three Escape Rooms to solve puzzles before your time runs out!

• Aspiring chefs practice culinary skills at Junior Chefs Camp and get to treat 2 family members.

• Interact with creatures at Ahoy, Matey! Animal Encounters.

PARADISE SPRINGS There’s no better way to beat the summer heat than by making a splash at Paradise Springs, the resort’s 10-acre outdoor waterpark. Adults can grab a cocktail and tube down the relaxing 600-foot-long lazy river while kids play in a giant water tree house, glide down four winding waterslides, and splash around in the 6,000-square-foot family lagoon. The pool comes alive each weekend with a live DJ, hair braiding, airbrush tattoos, and interactive games. Private cabanas are available for rent with extra shade, soft seating, TVs, and refrigerators.

ABOUT THE GAYLORD TEXAN The premier resort destination of the American Southwest, the Gaylord Texan Resort on Lake Grapevine offers extraordinary environments, 1,814 luxury guest rooms, and 4-and-a-half acres of Texas vistas under signature atriums. Amenities include award-winning restaurants and bars, Paradise Springs water park, Relâche Spa & Salon, retail shops, and more. Ideally situated on the shores of Lake Grapevine, Gaylord Texan is located only six minutes from DFW International Airport. This is the ultimate staycation! –

information, tickets and reservations: gaylordtexan.com/summerfest

• Buccaneer Bash Dance Party where you don your best pirate gear and dance to the beat!

• The brand-new Illuminate the Night Light Show fills the atrium each evening with a kaleidoscope of bright, colorful, and animated lights.

GAYLORD TEXAN RESORT

1501 Gaylord Trail Grapevine, Texas 76051

gaylordtexan.com/summerfest

(817) 778-1000

SL TidBits

THE SOUTHLAKE WOMEN’S CLUB RAISED $130K ARTFULLY IN THE SQUARE

The 23rd Art in the Square started wet, but ended with sunny blue skies. The Southlake Women’s Club applauds presenting sponsor, Methodist Southlake Medical Center, artists, sponsors, vendors, volunteers, City of Southlake, Southlake Town Square and art patrons for their continuing support of this award-winning event. The 27 nonprofits will benefit from $130K raised. Barry Goldsmith was selected by the community as the People’s Choice Winner for pencil graphite creatives (above). Congratulations to artists recognized for exceptional artwork in their chosen medium. Awards of Distinction went to Nick Leonoff, Jeremy Serna, David Palmer, Nicholas Barnes, Deanna Goldsmith and the Jurors Award went to Steve Dragan, Andrew Lawson, Gabby Hanley Tanya Lesley and Regina Lyubovnaya. The Youth Art tent showcased extremely talented high school artists. Winners recognized for their exceptional creatives were 1st place, Andy Haung; 2nd place, Lauren Graves; 3rd place, Hayden Eppinette; and an honorable mention went to Ella Beeman, Marilyn Cleveland, Eva Milby, Savannah Moore, Abby Grace Swell, and Ella Bushnell.

AITS 2023 beneficiaries include: 6 Stones Mission Network, Altrusa, Amy’s Wish With Wings, Apex Arts League, Battered Women’s Foundation, Call A Ride of Southlake, Camp Summit, Inc., Cancer Care Services, CASA of Tarrant County, Christmas Providers, Christ’s Haven for Children, Families for Effective Autism Treatment, Gill Children’s Services, GRACE, I Can Still Shine, Library Foundation of Southlake, Me Squared Cancer Foundation, Metroport Meals on Wheel, Neuro Assistance Foundation, North Texas SNAP, North TX Community Table, SafeHaven of Tarrant County, Serving Our Seniors, Special Olympics Sharks, Summer Santa, Inc., Tarrant County Association for the Blind, The Gifting Project, and The Warm Place.

With the 2023 Art in the Square now officially a wrap, the Southlake Women’s Club is moving on to the 2024 event to be held April 26-28, 2024. Thank you to everyone who came out to support the arts and nonprofits. Mark your calendars so you don’t miss the community event of the year!

southlakewomensclub.org/art-in-the-square

LONESOME DOVE PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBIT 50 BREATHTAKING IMAGES TAKEN DURING FILMING

“Lonesome Dove, the miniseries: Dramatic photographs by Bill Wittliff,” an exhibit with more than 50 breathtaking photographs taken by screenwriter and photographer Bill Wittliff during the filming of the 1989 miniseries Lonesome Dove, will be on display from Saturday, July 8th, through Saturday, August 19th in the lobby of Southlake Town Hall located at 1400 Main Street. Hours are from 10am to 8pm Monday-Thursday; 10am-6pm Friday-Saturday; and closed Sunday. The exhibit is presented by the Southlake Historical Society (SHS).

The beloved miniseries—promoted as “An epic Western adventure”—is based on Larry McMurtry’s 1985 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of two aging Texas Rangers, Augustus McCrae (Robert Duvall) and Woodrow Call (Tommy Lee Jones), who lead a cattle drive from the Rio Grande to Montana. Lonesome Dove was filmed in Austin, Del Rio and Santa Fe, and Wittliff was there to capture the drama, capers and tender moments. The miniseries earned seven Emmys, a Peabody Award and two Golden Globes. The 55-photograph traveling exhibit is sponsored by Humanities Texas. “This will be our ninth summer exhibit in Town Hall,” explains SHS president Connie Cooley. “And like all our previous exhibits, there’s also a Southlake connection. Larry McMurty’s Lonesome Dove began as a screenplay that sat around for a number of years in the 1970s before he decided to make it into a novel, but a novel without a title. In an interview he tells about coming back from a restaurant north of Fort Worth one day and seeing a church bus on the side of the road that had Lonesome Dove Baptist Church written on it. He immediately knew that was his title. That same Lonesome Dove Baptist Church, established in now-Southlake in 1846, still occupies the property on Lonesome Dove Road north of Dove Road, and is one of Tarrant County’s oldest churches. And there’s your connection.”

Preserve the Tradition | The Southlake Historical Society was created in 1992 when area residents answered the call of an ad placed in the Grapevine Sun newspaper. Local resident (and former Southlake mayor) Gary Fickes challenged readers to create a preservation group as a way to gather and preserve Southlake’s history. Since that time the Southlake Historical Society has been dedicated to archiving historical materials including scanning historical photos, gathering oral history interviews, helping in the research of both family and area business histories, developing programs for teachers and students, and working as the community advocacy group to preserve and protect Southlake’s history. The society meets on the second Monday of each month. If you would like to join them, please email southlakehistory@gmail.com. Do you have history in Southlake? The Southlake Historical Society invites you to tell your story!

southlakehistory.org

AUTHOR BOOK SIGNING WITH LEANNE BERTHIAUME

Author Leanne Berthiaume is a Southlake native who graduated from CHS in 2001. She was a 4-year Emerald Belle, including holding the positions of Jr. and Sr. Lieutenant. Leanne recently published her debut novel, Defining Me, and will have a book signing at Talking Animals Books in Grapevine on July 29th from 12-2pm. Admission is $20 and includes the paperback version of Leanne's book Defining Me. If you are unable to make it to the event, Leanne will sign the book for you and hold it for pick up. If you are out of town, she can ship it to you for a nominal shipping fee.

ABOUT THE BOOK: What would you do if your spirit, your ambition, and your heart broke all at once? When it happens to Isabelle Connelley, she runs away from her troubles as fast as she can... right into the arms of her first love. Alex Hastings was cute and fun when they were kids, but as an adult, he is charming, impossibly handsome, and a little bit mysterious. Even though they broke up for the last and final time many years ago she never really got over him. When she decided to spend the summer in her hometown, she envisioned reconnecting with her mom and relaxing with her childhood best friends. Getting to see Alex all day every day was just pure luck. So, when Isabelle’s summer of fun ends she has an all-new set of troubles waiting for her back home. Will she be able to rebuild her life and repair her marriage? Or, will she take a chance and give an old love a new start?

tickets: tinyurl.com/LMBerthiaume

Swatzell + Heilig

Swatzell+Heilig is owned by a mother-daughter duo who loves, loves, loves handbags! They have a shared passion for the best in style, function and fun. Also, they share entrepreneurial DNA and have each managed a successful business. So, when the idea came up to merge passion with business skills, this woman-owned business was on a mission to elevate style for all women. In striving for perfection, Swatzell+Heilig researched and developed with industry experts in the USA for two years before bringing their first handbag design to market. Now four years later, S+H has designed multiple products utilizing Italian leather and straw materials through ethically sourced international partners. Shop their collection now at shhandbags.com

SOHO – CLUTCH | This clutch is a chameleon that can be worn over six different ways and allows transition from day to night. It’s tiny but mighty—and pops of color make it the perfect complement to your fashion style. Collect them all. With 11 different colors and six ways to wear, this bag is uniquely you! Add the multi-chain (sold separately).

STYLE | FASHION | DESIGN

SEVILLE - MESSENGER | Organizational nirvana, travel ready bag or just plain pretty. Trendsetting chic meets sporty utilitarian vibe. Sharp clean lines define messenger bag style on the outside, while dividers and pockets hide what’s on the inside. Pockets galore to organize everything makes this bag ready for work, travel and play. Form and function with a sporty vibe.

CHARLESTON - TOTE | (top left) This bag is a game-changer. It is as durable as it is beautiful. The Charleston exudes casual elegance and compliments work, play and evening.

HIGHLAND – LARGE TOTE | (above and on right)

Sophisticated glamour that amplifies your individual style. Crafted with room galore yet everything at your fingertips. The is the bag that goes anywhere and everywhere.

“Thank you Team Gist!”

– TAYLOR, actual patient

what our patients are saying...

smile is. Thank you Dr. Gist and staff for giving me this beautiful radiant smile!”

– NATALIE, actual patient

“I am so thankful for Dr. Gist and his team! They were absolutely wonderful and I could not be more excited about the outcome. It has been decades since I have felt truly confident when I smile. Thank you!”

– MELANIE, actual patient

“After 40+ years of a bad bite and all the problems that come with that, Dr. Gist and his team perfected my bite in a very time efficient manner. Dr. G’s efficient way of fixing large restorative cases like mine was a real blessing. These people are the best at what they do!”

– KEVIN, actual patient

Gist Gallery

As the first dentist in Southlake, Dr. Greg L. Gist remembers a time when there were more cows than people surrounding his dental practice. His office is situated on a beautiful treed lot off North Carroll Avenue and East Dove Road and has sat in this same location for 40 years now. Gone are the days when cattle outnumber people—especially the patients that flock to this uncompromising dental practice from all over the globe. His patients have searched far and wide to discover the unfaltering integration of clinical excellence, honest communication, and hometown personalized customer service that they encounter here. This world class dental team knows each of their patients by name and their unique life

“Having Dr. Gist restore my smile was one of the best decisions that I have made for my career! Thank you Team Gist!

“I love my new smile, but I totally love how healthy my teeth are now! Septic and leaking ‘Old Dentistry’ can affect your physical health. Dr. Gist has been preaching this for 40+ years! Dr. G’s entire team is amazing — simply the best!

–

“Dr. Gist gave me a new smile and took 10 years off of my age! His team made me feel comfortable every step of my journey and for the first time in my life, I actually looked forward to my dentist appointments. I am overjoyed with the result and grateful for the confidence to smile!”

“Dr. Gist, I would like to thank you and your staff for caring about my smile as much as I do. This experience has given me confidence in my smile and I am so happy with all you have done for me!”

of Smiles

GIST & HAYES RESTORATIVE / COSMETIC DENTISTRY

experiences, not by their insurance number and their co-pay because there are no managed care philosophy’s in this practice. It’s this gold standard of care that his quality conscious patients have yearned for, but this type of relationship-driven health care is not the norm. The dental professionals here see their careers as a calling to make a profound difference in the lives of their patients. Greg Gist DDS and his junior partner/protégé, Carter Hayes DDS invite you to stop the patchwork dentistry cycle and consider their comprehensive method of care that supports your health through beautiful biocompatible materials. You can have both the perfect smile and infection-free dental health you have always desired for a lifetime.

– ESTHER, actual patient

– MARY, actual patient

TRINA, actual patient

– JACLYN, actual patient

GREG L. GIST DDS

For 40 years, Dr. Greg L. Gist has served the people of North Texas and beyond from his Southlake dental practice. The state-of-the-art office is in the same location he has practiced in for four decades. “My restorative studio was constructed around the way I love to practice. It was built with large oversized operatories and panoramic ceiling to floor windows that bring a sense of art and extreme views of the beautiful property that our office has been on for all these years!” Patients from all over the United States, as well as many foreign countries sought out this practice because quality and experience matters! His reputation for metal-free restorative and cosmetic dentistry is based on a world-class standard that truly is unsurpassed in the dental profession. He graduated with honors from Texas Tech and received Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Baylor College of Dentistry. Dr. Gist studied under Bill Strupp DDS in Florida for over 20 years, and attended the Strupp Postgraduate School of Fixed Prosthetic Dentistry. He attributes Dr. Strupp for the personal mentorship, clinical training, and friendship that solidified his vision for a ‘standard of care’ that is above and beyond any current standard in the profession today. His patients are the beneficiary of this level of clinical, infection-free aesthetic excellence delivered by the most amazing dental team in America! The Gist Way is truly elevating dentistry for their patients.

JUNIOR PARTNER & PROTÉGÉ - CARTER HAYES DDS

After interviewing applicants from across the nation, Dr. Gist announced the hiring of Carter Hayes DDS as his junior partner and protégé. Dr. Hayes began working in the practice last August. He is a native born Texan, graduated with honors from Abilene Christian University and then graduated at the top of his class at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSC). Dr. Hayes said, “I am extremely honored to have this opportunity to join one of the most elite private practices in the country!” Dr. Hayes and his wife Shelby have a son and identical twin girls. Dr. Gist is excited to share what he has learned over four decades in dentistry and to continue to provide the choice of excellence to keep his patients smiling and healthy with their own natural teeth—for a lifetime!

Dr. Gist and his team have a commitment to a set of standards that requires unique clinical, restorative and surgical protocols for the total removal of all pathology, decay, failing dentistry and the underlying sepsis in order to save your teeth for life. This standard is uncompromising and it does not just watch issues—it is a commitment to correct and then fix problems.

professionals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with... I love my new smile and dental family!”

– JOLYN, actual patient

“After many years contemplating having my smile restored, I knew exactly who I wanted to do it... Dr. Gist! I couldn’t be more pleased with the care Dr. Gist and his staff have given me. From the very first appointment, through a full smile restoration and beyond, they have treated me as a member of the family. I’ll never go anywhere else!”

– RACHEL, actual patient

“From my first visit, I felt like I was part of the dental family that improved the appearance and health of my mouth and smile. Being married to a retired oral surgeon for over 50 years, I learned the importance of using quality materials, and knew that Dr. Gist was the right cosmetic dentist for me. I could not be happier with the final outcome and have no regrets. Having a highly skilled doctor and staff made my dental journey a great experience.”

– PATRICIA, actual patient

meet the world class dental team

For 18 years, I’ve learned everything I know from the best restorative dentist in the world. Understanding why Dr. Gist restores teeth the way he does ‘The Gist Way’ with clinical protocols that offer tremendous value to our patient’s restorative and cosmetic dental care is what makes my job amazing! My family, including extended family are all patients in the practice. After seeing the level of dentistry Dr. Gist does, I wouldn’t let them go anywhere else! I consider my work and family all one unit. Dr. Gist even said the prayer at my wedding. The best part of my job is loving what I do and enjoying coming to work. What we do is life-changing—not only for the person’s health, but also for their confidence! Seeing the pure joy that comes from our patients after we have finished a full mouth rehab is so rewarding.

TAMMY DOPORTO, FRONT DESK / HYGIENE COORDINATOR

I strive to maintain and practice Dr. Gist’s philosophy of providing relationship-driven health care. Working with Dr. Gist has made balancing my work and home life very easy because he is so family-oriented—and being a part of his dental team family has been such a blessing! Working with the best cosmetic dentist and the most amazing restorative team to transform the lives of our patients is the best part of my job. When our patients smile, I know that we have connected with them in a meaningful way that changed their life!

“Thank you to Dr. Gist and Team G for an incredible experience! Having my smile restored has been a huge boost to my confidence and has proven to be a great value.”

– MICHAEL, actual patient

JENNA GILLUND, RDH, REGISTERED DENTAL HYGENIST

I have learned so much above-and-beyond my skillset as a hygenist working for Dr. Gist. He counts on me to provide his patients with the highest level of care, and in-turn I am excited to be a part of each of their restorative journey. Dr. Gist puts his patients and dental team at the core of his priorities and I am grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of it all. His practice is really like a family for all who visit here.

MONIQUE ROSE, RDA

I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn and work at one of the very few dental practices that performs high-end full mouth restorations. The undivided attention I’m able to give to each patient allows me the time needed to provide thorough hygiene care. Assisting Dr. Gist chairside, witnessing him give patients back confidence with a youthful smile is the best part of my job!

RACHAEL ZUNIGA, RDA

The best part of my job is working as a team to turn a patient unhappy with their smile into one that can not stop smiling! Dr. Gist has built a strong, unified team to uphold his superior standards for dental care and grow stronger with continued education. To be able to learn from his experience is something we don’t take for granted. We all know we get to learn from the very best!

what our patients are saying...

experience and I’m thrilled with my new smile!”

– DAWN, actual patient

“I believe your smile is the entrance into everything in life. I lost confidence in my smile which made me smile less. Dr. Gist was recommended to me by my dear friend. He is simply the best! Dr. Gist is so kind, and he genuinely cares about his patients. I now have my beautiful smile back along with my self confidence. I will forever be greatful to Dr. Gist and his wonderful staff!”

— JEANNIE, actual patient

Most patients entering their practice have had little to no input as it relates to dental materials that have been put into their bodies. This seems inconceiveable to Dr. Gist and his team. When it comes to material choices available in modern dentistry today, Dr. Gist believes that only biocompatible, time-tested materials that aren’t controversial as to their potential toxicity, are the only materials to consider putting into your mouth and body. This elite standard is how he can promise patients their own teeth for life.

QUALITY CONSCIOUS PATIENTS KNOW THEY HAVE A CHOICE

Those who desire a higher standard of care know that quality and experience matters. Dr. Gist’s gold standard of care takes patient health into account in everything they do! Toxic Mercury alloy, temporary plastics and porous resins, non-precious and base metal crowns, water-soluble cements, removable appliances of plastic and non precious metals are all materials that Dr. Gist does not use in restoring his patients’ teeth, bite relationships and smiles. Dr. Gist only uses biocompatible and time-tested materials that support systemic, periodontal and aesthetic health.

I wanted the Best Cosmetic Dentist in the country because I needed a lot of my dentistry replaced. I chose Dr. Greg Gist because of his commitment to overall health and his reputation for incredible aesthetic results! I could not be more pleased with my treatment and the results. This entire team took care of me like family — with a level of personalized care I did not know existed! Thank You Team Gist!”

– RHONDA, actual patient

“With a penchant for artistry, attention to detail and patient care, Dr. Gist and his dream team blessed me with a smile that is nothing short of miraculous and life changing. My ‘Gist’ smile is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!”

– LYLE, actual patient

It’s important to understand that dental biofilm—the recurring bacteria that forms daily in your mouth and under failing dentistry— is affecting your systemic health. This bacterial growth referred to as ‘sepsis’ leaks into your blood system through periodontal ligaments and the pulp chambers of all teeth. This bacterial invasion effects the gums, making them bleed, opening up more entry portals for further bacteria infiltration. If these bacteria infect your blood, they’re instantly in every organ of your body.

This is why studies emerge each year connecting dental and/or periodontal infections with a vast array of systemic disease—like cardiovascular and cerebrovascular pathology, lung infections, and new research shows a link to certain cancers. Dr. Gist advises that patients seek out a dental professional that has a firm handle on the concept of dental sepsis as it relates to any restorative procedures. Infection-free materials and aggressive control of this dental sepsis is a radically different approach than many patients have been exposed to in the past and one that’s making Dr. Gist’s patients healthier now and into their future!

You can have the perfect smile you have always wanted and the infection-free dental health that you deserve. Dr. Gist’s elite team of dental professionals are as caring as they are knowledgable. Appointments at their dental office feel more like visiting family and friends, then a doctor’s appointment. This ease during the process, quality of care and genuine desire to help patients live healthier lives defines this exceptional dental practice.

what our patients are saying...

“Dr. Gist and his staff are amazing. He has changed my life forever! Thank you so much!”

– MARLEAH, actual patient

“Years of playing football along with clenching and grinding caused my teeth to become shorter and shorter. I have more confidence than ever and I can’t stop smiling! Dr. Gist and his staff are amazing and I’m forever grateful.”

– JONATHON, actual patient

“I could not be happier with my new smile! Dr. Gist and his entire team took care of me just like family. Thank you Team Gist!”

– SUNNI, actual patient

* THIS PATIENT COULD BE YOU!

WHAT PATENTS CAN EXPECT

Dr. Gist and his team of dental professionals promise to deliver world class clinical and aesthetic excellence in comprehensive cosmetic and restorative dentistry to patients looking for this superior level of care—and also to accomplish this in a fun environment, surrounded by the most talented and nurturing support staff. They pride themselves on the comfort and level of after-care that goes into each one of their cases. Dr. Gist and his expert team want to be a blessing to every patient God brings to their practice.

Patients who come to Dr. Gist’s practice can expect for this dental team to deliver the very best service and highest quality dental care in the world. If you’ve been hiding your smile, worried about how your failing dentistry is harming your health, putting up with pain or putting off going to the dentist for anxiety—they offer safe sedation dental techniques that mean you can have years of dental treatments done quickly. Sedation dentistry patients also report having very little to absolutely no discomfort. Dr. Gist and his team confidently promise you the finest, safest, and most comfortable care.

ONCE YOU KNOW... YOU KNOW!

Once patients realize how damaging failing dentistry and toxic materials are to their health—there’s no going back. Make no mistake about it, a ‘Gist Smile Makeover’ is for the benefit of your overall health including your dental health. The fact that your new smile will also look so very good is the cherry on top! This is healthy beauty you can feel good about. When you desire a higher level of quality, Dr. Gist’s experience matters—and his legacy of clinical excellence will be waiting for you as soon as you are ready for the personal dental care that you deserve.

who have been honored with this distinction the past 8 years have also received nominations each and every year, which is remarkable.

Past honorees are:

2021

JULIE BUEL BUTNER

MARTI CONNER

VERONICA SAENZ DARNELL

JUDY GAMAN

DR. SWAPNIL MAHENDRAKAR

MARTHA NEIBLING

MARY MOE-GEORGIA

REV. JOY ROBERSON

KATHY TALLEY

KIMBERLEY VINES

2018

CRISTINA BYNUM-BREAUX

RENEE CALDWELL CINDI COOPERMAN

KELLY FOREMAN

JEN GEIGLE JOHNSON

NICHOLE JORDAN

DR. FEYI OBAMEHINTI

TIFFANY O’MALLEY

KATIE SANFORD

DANA L. WHITE

2023 NOMINEES

OLIVIA BENNETT

LISA ELIESON

DR. LESLIE M. FARIS

RENA FROST

VIRGINIA HINKLE

JUDY HOBERMAN

JANA KARIKA

JENNIFER LENEY

JULES PETERSON

SUSAN SEMMELMANN

2020

DIONE KENNEDY

PAULA Y. MASTERS

LACY MILANI-INGALLS

DR. CARRIE L. MORRIS

TRACY SOTHERS-PARKER

SUSAN STEINBRECHER

DR. MYIESHA TAYLOR

DEBBIE VINSON

JULIET WILLIAMS

BRITTNI WILLIAMSON

2017

LINDA BOWDEN

TRISH BIDDLE

BARBARA BOARD

LORA FOLGER

LAURA HILL

CAROLYN HILL MORRIS

LISA ROSE

VIRGINIA ROSE-HARRIS

SHAUNA VAN DYKE

LAURA WHEAT

2022

VERONICA H. COBB

MICHELLE DAVIS

DR. LISA FAAST

MONIKA HEATON

COLLEEN MONROE

CHELSEA ROSE

TAMIKA TAYLOR

JAYME THOMPSON

GRACIE VEGA

ANGELA YOUNGS-ALDRIDGE

2019

CARLY ALACAHAN

MARYLEE ALFORD

KAY ALLEN

LESLIE BARROWS

CLAUDIA BEENY

YOLANDA HARPER

LILY MOORE

DR. NINA RIOS-DORIA

MIMI TRAN

JULIE WALSH

2016

TRACI BERNARD

CINDY J. CAMPBELL

JUDI MCQUEARY

ADRIENNE MENICHINI

DEBBIE MORRIS

PAMELA MULLER

TAMMY NAKAMURA

SHONDA SCHAEFER

ESTHER SPINA

PATTY TURNER

Many of the amazing women

SL

inspirational accomplished and engaging women of tarrant county

We all know her—the woman who never ceases to amaze us with kindness and generosity. She volunteers her time and her talents to help others... never seeming to run out of steam. The 10 women we have featured on these pages were nominated by you—our readers and the local community for being exactly this type of woman. Inspirational. Accomplished. Engaging. Nominations were accepted on our website for local women who embody the above admirable characteristics. The 10 women who have been chosen are listed alphabetically by last name. We asked them each a list of questions about the organizations, causes and accomplishments that mean the most to them, as well as their words to live by and future goals. You will find some of their answers here. Thank you to those of you who nominated remarkable local women for our consideration.

Olivia has spent 20 years creating collaborative artwork for cause awareness and fundraising. She’s involved in both local and national charities and nonprofits with a specific focus on health, the environment, and freedom. She hopes to use her art to inspire and make the world a more beautiful place to live. oliviabennett.com

Tom And Susan Durant Foundation

Kids Matter International Boots And Bling Galas

Texas Independence Day

MeSquared Foundation Gala

Governor Abbott Private Event

Boys and Girls Club

Cattle Barons Ball

American Cancer Society

St. Jude – Night Of Hope

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

National Charity League

Make-A-Wish North Texas

GRACE Grapevine

Jewel Charity Ball

Children’s Diabetes Foundation

LIVIA BENNETT O

Olivia Bennett is an Internationally recognized fine artist, cancer survivor, author, illustrator, philanthropist, and gallery owner since 2004. (at the age of only 14 years). Olivia found her artistic gift at age 5, while battling Leukemia. What started as a hobby and emotional escape from her cancer treatment soon turned into her passion and full-time career. She sold her first painting at the age of 8 and was in awe that someone wanted to purchase a piece of her art. This led to Olivia touring and selling her work at local art shows around Texas. At age 12, Olivia received national attention after her meeting with President Bush, as well as her appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show. At 13, she was named, “One of 20 Teens Who Will Change the World” along with Michael Phelps and Kelly Osbourne by Teen People Magazine for her entrepreneurial and philanthropic work.

“The last 25 years I’ve been inspired by nature.

It wasn’t until recently that I realized, I’m not just painting pretty things. These ‘pretty things’ like flowers, butterflies and bees, truly give us life. As an artist, I want to magnify and protect these amazing miracles, in hopes that all of humanity will appreciate the massive impact that they make in our everyday lives. My intention in life is to live authentically, embrace nature, and enjoy celebrating all the beauty and simplicity in life!” Olivia’s raised hundreds of thousands for aligned causes including health and preserving American Freedoms! She’s recently Launched the OLIVIA BENNETT Collection with Twisted X footwear, and her lifestyle brand is coming 2024. Creating a business around her passions has allowed her the flexibility to be a hands-on homeschool Mom—which is her greatest accomplishment. No surprise then that at the end of a long day, she’ll be taking a walk with her hubby, son and new pup, Buster!

HER

“When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”

– DR. WAYNE DYER

Owner, brand: OLIVIA BENNETT

Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors

Specialties are in faith-based counseling, couples, marriage, depression, anxiety, sexuality, women’s issues, adolescent and adult counseling

AASECT Certified Sex

Therapist & Certified Sexologist

Working with couples to strengthening relationships

Keller Counselors Association President

American Board of Sexology

Diplomate

Texas Counselors Association

Member

Certified Professional Life Coach

Through the International Association of Professional Recovery Coaches

Gottman Method

Couples Therapy

Completed Level 1, 2 & 3 Clinical Training

RECURRING GUEST SPEAKER:

LDS Family Services

Texas Wesleyan University

SimplePractice Learning

Santé Center

As well as other local training organizations

DR. LISA ELIESON

Dr. Lisa Elieson is a Texas native who grew up in North Texas. She’s been in practice for over 20 years and opened Hidden Lakes Counseling in 2013. She enjoys helping people through challenging times to make changes in their life within the framework of their individual goals, beliefs, and family systems. She holds degrees in Psychology, Counseling Psychology, and Marriage and Family Therapy. Her approach integrates Family Systems Theory with Cognitive Behavioral, and Solution Focused Models. Dr. Elieson believes counseling is a team process— and brings to the session some perspective and expertise on how life works, but recognizes that the client is the expert on their own life. She sees the client as an equal participant in their own counseling work, with the therapist as a guide. Her style as a counselor tends to be supportive and caring, but also assertive when identifying issues. Her goal for clients is for them to feel empowered as they chart their

own course toward happiness, peace, and joy. Her broad experience supporting juvenile detention centers, a local women’s shelter, a private psychiatry practice, local pastors, and LDS Family Services has given her a unique understanding and appreciation of relationships, teens, women’s issues, and family dynamics. She wants people to know that, “You’re not alone and you can do anything with the right support. Teaming up with an experienced counselor can help you see the more complex dynamics affecting your relationships, and help you understand the latest research and methods for coping with difficulties that arise along the way.” In her free time, she’s traveling with family, seeking new cultural experiences, or reading a book about relationships. “Or even better—both! At any given time my desk is covered in books about relationships and human behavior. I love the study of people and human dynamics—it’s all so fascinating.”

“Life is a classroom and we choose to learn from the wisdom and counsel of others or from experiences. We are good people, who are capable of making good or bad choices, that may or may not take us where we want to go. If I don’t like where I’m headed, I can make a different choice. Be the difference I want to see.”

– DR. LISA ELIESON

Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor - Hidden Lakes Counseling

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Behavioral Medicine Specialist

Life Coach

Psychology Services of North Texas

Owner of Private Practice

Along with my private practice, I have worked with male and female inmates at:

State Penitentiaries

Federal Bureau of Prisons

Baylor Pain Management Center

LGBTQ Center

Inpatient and Outpatient Mental Hospital Settings

Note from Leslie Faris, Ph.D: “I will continue to help others through my private practice, speaking engagements, teaching courses, and book writing.”

Author

Book in print about parenting today’s teenagers

Greatest Accomplishment:

“Daily accomplishments can culminate into great things... Helping suicidal patients find a reason to live has become a daily occurrence since 2020, so maybe that will become my greatest professional accomplishment.”

DR. LESLIE M. FARIS

Dr. Leslie M. Faris is a licensed psychologist who has worked in psychological services for over 30 years. Along with a thriving private practice, she’s worked with male and female inmates in the State Penitentiaries, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons, at the Baylor Pain Management Center, LGBTQ Center, and in both inpatient and outpatient mental hospital settings. “I have taught various courses, have been a regular at speaking engagements, have published works in the field of psychology, and have a book currently in print on parenting today’s teenagers,” said Dr. Faris. “ I started my education as a journalist and I am so thankful that God steered me in the direction of helping others through psychological services instead.” Though she admits that she loves writing—her true joy comes from helping others thrive in the midst of life’s storms. When we asked about her greatest professional accomplishment, she

said that was a tough question to answer. “It is the little daily accomplishments that culminate into great things. Helping suicidal patients find a reason to live has become a daily occurrence since 2020, so maybe that will become my greatest professional accomplishment.” Her future goals include paying attention to where God needs her, and to continue helping others through her private practice, speaking engagements, courses, and book writing.

“Like Erma Bombeck says, ‘When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say I used everything you gave me.’” At the end of any long day nothing makes Dr. Faris happier than to spend time with her husband, their three boys, and their house full of pets. “I love painting, writing, and anything creative... I am always immersed in some sort of creative project in my spare time.”

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

– JEREMIAH 29:11

Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Behavioral Medicine Specialist, and Life Coach

ACCOMPLISHMENTS, ORGANIZATIONS AND

VOLUNTEER / PARTICIPATE AT:

Fort Worth Food & Wine Festival

Taste of Grapevine

DFW Restaurant Week Top 10

Winter Restaurant Week

Celebrity Chefs (Chair for 2023)

Steak of the Arts

Make a Wish Delicious Wishes

Boys & Girls Club Party for a Purpose

Colleyville Women’s Club Fundraiser

Mid-Cities SOS Celebrity Chef 2023

GRACE Transitional

Housing Galentine’s Dinner

Created and hosted a 4 course dinner

Dine To Donate for GRACE

Created mini Restaurant Week for Colleyville and Grapevine Chefs

ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN:

James Beard Foundation

Bootcamp for Policy & Change

Tarrant County Restaurant Assoc.

National Restaurant Association

Ben Barber Culinary Academy

Colleyville & Grapevine Chambers

American Culinary Foundation

Meat & Lamb Australia

Brand Ambassador

Independent Restaurant Coalition

Texas Chefs Association

HONORS / RECOGNITION:

Grapevine Business Hall of Fame

Arts League Shining Star of the Year

Grace Volunteer of the Year 2022

Texas Restaurant Association

Tarrant County Restaurateur of the Year

ENA FROST R

HER WORDS TO LIVE BY

Chef Rena Frost attributes her culinary training to her Korean mother who made her incredible traditional dishes with what was available for her in a city that had no Korean market. “I also learned how to garden and cook traditional West Texas food from my American father. My love of cooking grew, as did my passion for reading cookbooks, traveling and trying the dishes that sounded the most interesting,” Rena notes. After graduating from college and working in finance and accounting, she pursued a career in the restaurant business. She had worked for several different restaurants in high school at the front and back of the house. She took a leap of faith joining an established independent restaurant showing growth. “I signed on as the VP/Director of Operations in 1993 and did menu development along with my other duties. Leaning towards my travels and heritage I was able to add my own touch to our menu,” she recalls. After 18 years as a

minority partner, she purchased the Arlington and Colleyville locations with her husband, Howard. In 2014, they opened the location in Grapevine. Rena says she’s usually in the kitchen creating new menu items or updating the wine list while “tasting” at the bar. Above all else, she says that, “Always giving back to the community you do business in should be at the core of your business model. The rewards of giving through your time, talent or financially cannot be measured.” In her spare time she’s created and published recipes for Food & Wine, Avocados from Mexico, American Heart Association, FLAVOR, PLATE, and other local magazines. But, she considers her greatest professional accomplishment being invited to cook at the 2022 World Expo in Dubai in the Australian pavilion for Aussie Meat & Lamb. No matter what she’s cooking, her husband (aka Official Recipe Tester), three adult children, and three grandchildren are waiting to take a bite!

“You are capable of amazing things.”

– I HAD IT ENGRAVED ON SPECIAL CUFFS FOR BOTH OF MY DAUGHTERS

Chef / Owner of Mac’s on Main and Mac’s Bar & Grill

Dragons Care Founder & President Chairman of the Board dragons-care.org

Awarded Volunteer of Year by the Southlake Chamber of Commerce

Carroll ISD Strategic Planning Committee Member

Southlake Public Library Board Member

Carroll Leadership for Supporting Success Graduate

Carroll Education Foundation (CEF)

Raises funds to support teacher salaries at Carroll ISD

Carroll ISD Communications Action Team

Carroll ISD Parent Teacher Organizations

Southlake Foundation

Southlake Chamber of Commerce

Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity

Development, Marketing, and Volunteer Coordination

VIRGINIA HINKLE

Founder, President & Chairman of the Board for Dragons Care

Virginia Hinkle built Dragons Care from the ground up with a team of parent volunteers from Carroll ISD. Beginning fall 2020, she saw a need for helping when people became gravely ill with COVID. “At my kid’s elementary school, I started a group with nine families to provide two weeks worth of meals, paper goods, cleaning essentials, and groceries to help families recover. When my family moved to another Southlake school zone, that campus asked us to start the same group. I was getting requests from other Carroll ISD campuses asking us to help support staff. So, we turned our grassroots effort of helping one person at one elementary school campus into an official 501c3 charity that’s district-wide and helps all the staff in our public school system,” she notes. “I want to bring community together, rallying everyone to support the exceptional educators, staff members, School Resource Officers at Carroll ISD who are facing illnesses,

injuries, or family tragedies. I envision us embracing a spirit of abundant affection, coming together and getting ‘Loud with Love.’ We boast an immensely generous community, as evidenced by the fact that, over two years, every need has been fulfilled within 48 hours. I aim to sustain this incredible support during their most challenging times.” Establishing and guiding Dragons Care has been her greatest achievement in her professional journey... despite the fact it’s the only position she’s had without monetary compensation. It represents her true vocation and the driving force behind her passion. “My faith has taught me to ‘hear, believe and obey’ and that guiding principle has brought me here with the incredible support of my loving husband, Roth, and our two children, Audrey and Charlotte.” At the end of a long day, Virginia cherishes cuddling up with family, including the dogs, to watch a funny movie, eat popcorn and read bedtime stories.

“One of the greatest commandments given to us by Jesus Himself, as stated in Mark 12:31, is to ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Additionally, in John 15:12, Jesus affirms, ‘This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.’ Moreover, Galatians 6:2 instructs us to ‘carry each other’s burdens’ as a means of fulfilling the law of Christ.”

– VIRGINIA HINKLE

Walking on the Glass Floor Foundation

Supports and empowers women by sourcing, publishing and distributing educational materials for women in and aspiring to leadership positions and organizations that support women in leadership

No Kid Hungry

Connecting vulnerable kids in communities around the country with the nutritious food they need to grow and thrive

Hallie’s Heroes

Pigtails can change the world— working to get as many people as possible to join the bone marrow registry to save lives

Fearless Dallas

Helps women and gender minorities ages 18+ learn valuable life skills through full circle mentorship

Women Veterans Enterprise Center

Empower entrepreneur women associated with the military to scale for success

Author of 4 Books

Including “Selling in a Skirt”

“Walking on the Glass Floor”

Selling in a Skirt

If you want to connect with me, my website is... sellinginaskirt.com

JUDY HOBERMAN

Judy Hoberman is president of Selling In A Skirt, a company focused on empowering professional women. She’s an award-winning international speaker, best-selling author, trainer and leading authority on women in leadership and sales. With over 3 decades in business, she combines wisdom and humor with her behavior shaping strategies and is often described as “transformational.” She was a TEDx speaker, as well as the author of four books, including “Selling in a Skirt” and “Walking on the Glass Floor.” She was named as one of 14 “Sales Pros Building Trust” from LinkedIn and also named as a “Woman To Watch” from Thrive Global for International Women’s Day. Judy was also recognized as the “Coach of the Year” from Powerful Professionals. Her mission is to help one woman a day by following an important philosophy—”Women Want To Be Treated

Equally... Not Identically.®” When we asked Judy what she considers to be her greatest professional accomplishment she told us, “While winning numerous awards for sales, production and recruiting, my favorite and greatest professional accomplishment was being recognized and honored with ‘The Character and Integrity Award.’” As far as goals for the future, she wants to be part of the change in bringing more qualified women into leadership positions and working with companies to close the gap by attracting and retaining top female talent and bring an employer of choice. At the end of a long day, Judy think about what she’s accomplished for the day... “Did I make a difference and did I make someone smile? It’s not always about completing all the tasks on your To-Do list. For me, it is about my priorities and that is always Family First.”

“Women Want To Be Treated Equally... Not Identically.®”

– JUDY HOBERMAN

President of Selling In A Skirt

Keep Reading DFW

Founder

Non-profit effort to gift high-quality storybooks to our poorest communities and model for parents the invaluable habit of reading to their children

KeepReadingDFW.org

BarefootCourage.com

Founder

Podcast encouraging mindfulness of the majesty of God in the ups and downs of everyday life

Community Bible Study Teaching Director 2016-2021

Working to see lives transformed in our communities through caring, in-depth Bible study available to all

Union Gospel Mission Bible study leader 2018-2021

Providing love, hope, respect, and a new beginning for the homeless

L.I.N.K.S.

Former local team leader National Steering Team member

Equipping United States Marine Corps spouses and family members with the information and tools to help them thrive in the unique way of life in the Corps

Future Author

“Currently working on my first book that I hope to have published next summer.”

JANA KARIKA

Jana Karika’s worn many hats including Marine wife, mom, women’s ministry leader, ESL and writing instructor, non-profit organizer, cancer survivor—but no matter what hat she’s wearing, the faith that draws her to love God and love people defines her. Five years ago, she had a breast cancer diagnosis—undergoing surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. That journey inspired her to form a company to produce materials to help cancer patients thrive during and after treatment. With support of her husband, Ken, SweetHawk LLC was born. She began the process of engineering an ice bath mechanism for hands and feet to help chemo patients preserve nails and perhaps minimize peripheral neuropathy during chemo infusions. She hopes to see that product in oncology infusion rooms soon. The majority of Jana’s time and effort are focused on women’s ministry as the Restoration Church Women’s Ministry Director where she

teaches women’s in-depth Bible study, as well as organizes events to facilitate relationships among women of the church. In 2022, she had news that her breast cancer had spread. She immediately began treatment and is now in remission with a renewed understanding of how precious time is. She’s started a project she’s dreamed of for years! With her B.A. in English from University of Missouri and M.A. in Multicultural Literature from East Carolina University, Jana’s always valued the power of a wellwritten story. Her nonprofit Keep Reading DFW gifts high-quality storybooks to the poorest communities. “We need to be reminded no matter how hard or sad things seem, your story isn’t over. God is still writing this story, and He promises that it ends well,” she said. “Above anything I’ve accomplished, the women I’ve served alongside have inspired me and shown me what it is to be a true friend and neighbor.”

“Root your life in God’s Word. Psalm 1 tells us that when we delight in the Word of the Lord and keep it as the mainstay of our thoughts, then we will be like trees planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in season, and never withering. That is how I want to live!”

– PSALM 1

Women’s Ministry Director at Restoration Church Founder of BarefootCourage.com and Keep Reading DFW

6 Stones Mission Network Sharing Hope through community mobilization using these six core values: Christ-centered, Compassionate, Integrity, Unified, Servant-hearted, Influencer

6 Stones

Momentum Mentoring

Curriculum-based mentorship program helping neighbors rise above life’s challenges by empowering physical, spiritual, emotional, and economic stability

Volunteers of America

Helping those most in need live their best lives

Christian Community Action Administering to the poor by providing comprehensive services that alleviate suffering

Note from Jennifer: “It is important to me to support organizations focused on poverty alleviation, as well as to help anybody willing to do their part to reach their potential and fully utilize their God-given gifts.”

ENNIFER LENEY J

Jennifer Leney joined the 6 Stones family with 20 years of experience in executive leadership. She fully believes everything God has allowed her to learn while serving in ministry, coupled with a decade in Corporate America, have been used to serve her neighbors through 6 Stones with excellence and compassion. Her passion is to help people achieve their full potential while utilizing their God-given gifts to improve the world around them. Jennifer has piloted and launched a mentoring program which is now the most transformative program at 6 Stones. It develops teams and systems that help individuals achieve their full potential, as well as know and utilize their spiritual gifts. She has future goals to scale the Momentum Mentor Program across Tarrant to impact the 250K people living below the poverty line. “I want to develop a pipeline for the working poor to help themselves out of poverty, then

expand Momentum Generations to help students realize their full potential, and implement a retail business that will financially support the ministry and anyone willing to work hard for a great living,” she noted. When asked what she considers her greatest professional accomplishment she said, “6 Stones just completed a capital campaign raising over 7M—twice as much as expected and more than doubling the annual budget!”Jennifer married her college sweetheart, Chris, and together they’re raising their daughter Sydney. Jennifer enjoys using her skills as a licensed minister, running, cycling and training her very energetic dogs! At the end of a long day, she says she can be found singing praise and worship songs to fill her up in any area she’s depleted. “Then I cuddle up on the couch with my husband, who is also my best friend, to share all the highlights or occasional lowlights of our respective days.”

“I am blessed to be a blessing.”

“Your deepest pain is usually your biggest ministry opportunity.”

“Don’t take criticism from anyone you’d never go to for advice.”

Executive Director of 6 Stones Mission Network

Loving Long Ears Donkey Therapy & Sanctuary, Inc. Helping Donkeys and Donkeys

Helping Mankind through Donkey Assisted Therapy and our Donkey Sanctuary

Note from Jules (founder): “We love sharing our donkey family and encourage you to donate at our website.”

lovinglongears.org

“100% of donations goes to feed, vet and care for the donkeys. Volunteer, visit or donate items of daily need like Coastal hay, shavings, fly spray, electrolyte powder, etc. Thank you and blessings for all your support!”

Dallas-Fort Worth

Donkey & Equine Rescue Groups

“I support all donkey and equine rescues in the DFW area. I work closely with many and I have personally rehomed eight donkeys just this last month that were not part of Loving Long Ears Donkey Therapy & Sanctuary, Inc.”

JULES PETERSON

Jules Peterson is the founder and executive director of Loving Long Ears Donkey Therapy & Sanctuary, Inc. in Southlake. This has been a long-time dream in the making! Her 501c3 nonprofit began in 2017 with the purpose of partnering with Donkeys and humans offering healing for both. She admits that, “Love fuels Loving Long Ears and love started our mission. We work with kids, first responders, veterans and other adults to create synergy between Donkeys and humans that inspires and heals.”

Jules is preparing for a future move to a muchneeded larger facility that better supports the donkey’s needs and their mission. Future plans include this move and hiring a barn manager to help with the physical work required. No one can deny that this is a passion project for her.

“Over the past two extreme weather years, I have spent 8 of the coldest and 3 of the hottest nights sleeping in the barn to ensure our more

fragile donkeys would survive. I work 12-14 hour days in all weather with just 9 days off in the past 7 years,” Jules recalls. Undoubtably this is her labor of love. We didn’t even have to ask what her greatest accomplishment is it’s so obvious! “A lot has gone into Loving Long Ears in the last few years, and we’re incredibly overwhelmed by the support that’s allowed our dreams to start flourishing. However, we really need funding for a climate controlled barn more conducive to the donkeys’ well-being, our therapy sessions, public visits and holiday events. You can be a part of our dream for the donkeys and making our mission come true... a land donation comes with naming rights for our new facility!” she coaxes. At the end of each long day, Jules thanks God for the chance to brighten someone’s day or facilitate one’s future with her rescued and trained therapy Donkeys (and the Donkeys give thanks, too!)

“To save the life of one Donkey won’t change the world... but it will change the world for that one Donkey.”

– JULES PETERSON

Founder & Executive Director of Loving Long Ears Donkey Therapy & Sanctuary, Inc.

A Wish With Wings

Wish-granting for kids with lifethreatening medical conditions

Raquel’s Wings for Life Transports North Texas cancer patients free of cost to medical facility in Texas / Oklahoma area

Puttin’ on the Pink Fashion Luncheon supporting Texas Health Resources Foundation

Jewel Charity

Providing for health and well-being of the precious patients at Cook Children's Black Tie Dinner

Provides resources for LGBTQ supportive organizations

JAB Cares

Partner with deserving nonprofits to support their efforts

Alzheimer’s Association

Global effort to eliminate Alzheimer's and other dementias

KinderFrogs

Early intervention program for children with Down syndrome

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases

American Veterans Association

To enhance and safeguard the entitlements for all American Veterans who have served

USAN SEMMELMANN S

Susan Semmelmann lives by her company’s motto, “The spirit of living is in the giving.” Even after receiving multiple design awards— ranging from best interiors, best overall design, best creative spaces, best offices, best bathrooms, best kitchens—when we asked her what her greatest professional accomplishment was she said it was being able to use her platform in her business to help others help others. Susan has also been awarded Philanthropist of the Year Award, The Rosie Moncrief Hope Award, Top 400 of Fort Worth Award, and Entrepreneur of the Year Award. As the owner and founder of Semmelmann Interiors she says, “I want to give back all that I can so that others can experience a fun, exciting transition in their home that happens through trust, faith, and fellowship.” In the near future, she will be opening her Fort Worth Design Studio that

will allow her to offer endless design resources, as well as expand her territory of showrooms and team. She’s in the process of developing her exclusive products in furnishings, decor and lighting. Susan and her husband have a beautiful family with three children. She loves being involved in the community and working with charities that are very personal to her. She knows that a home is personal, it is about you and your lifestyle, how you live and what you want to feel when you are in your happy place. At the end of a long day you are likely to find her relaxing and reflecting on a good day of gratitude for all life has to offer... to give us freedom, opportunity and a heart full of love for people. Susan admits that, “You never know what tomorrow holds, and I have learned to embrace each day as a gift and live it to the fullest, knowing I will never walk my life’s journey alone.”

“The spirit of living is in the giving.”

– SUSAN SEMMELMANN

Owner & Founder of Semmelmann Interiors

City Square let’s fight poverty, together dallas

greater good

SL greater good

CITYSQUARE BACK STORY

Since its humble beginnings in 1988 to present day, CitySquare has grown into a broad organization offering a comprehensive array of social services. They offer many ways to engage.

In 1988, Dallas businessman Jim Sowell was moved by his concern for the problems associated with poverty. He took action in response to the human suffering he observed by working with friends to launch the Central Dallas Food Pantry in a strip shopping center

at Henderson and Central Expressway. In 1990, the organization received status as a 501c3 non-profit corporation and, due to its growth, relocated to larger quarters at 801 N. Peak in East Dallas. In August 1994, current CEO, Larry James, joined the organization and shortly thereafter, Central Dallas Food Pantry began doing business as Central Dallas Ministries and acquired an additional building at 409 N. Haskell. In October 2010, Central Dallas Ministries changed its name to CitySquare in order to better reflect the commitment to equality, inclusiveness, and recognition

that fighting poverty involves bringing the entire community together in the heart of the city. Then in November 2014, CitySquare relocated most of its direct services programs, including the food pantry and workforce training department, to its new Opportunity Center— a 53,000 square foot collective impact campus located at the corner of Malcolm X Boulevard and I-30. And since 1988 up to today, CitySquare has offered social services that address four key areas related to the persistence of poverty: Hunger, Health, Housing, and Hope.

CitySquare More than 300,000 people live in poverty in Dallas. The mission of CitySquare is to change that. CitySquare fights the causes and effects of poverty through service, advocacy and friendship. The fight to end poverty in Dallas is harder than ever. CitySquare uses proven methods to bring hope to their neighbors by offering comprehensive services to address key areas related to the persistence of poverty.

AT CITYSQUARE, THEY DON'T HAVE CLIENTS, THEY HAVE NEIGHBORS. AS PART OF THEIR FAITH VALUES, TO “LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF,” (MARK 12:31), THEIR WORK IS FUELED BY A FAITH THAT COMPELS THEM TO LOVE, SERVE, AND SUFFER WITH SOME OF GOD’S FAVORITE PEOPLE.

HUNGER

CitySquare has a Food Pantry, food recovery program, and brings food to the community youth through mobile meal programs after school and in the summer, in order to remove barriers to accessing healthy food.

HOUSING

CitySquare is the largest nonprofit provider of affordable housing in the City of Dallas with permanent supportive housing, transitional housing and rapid rehousing units.

HEALTH

CitySquare health and wellness programs work in both a clinic setting, as well as in community and continuum of programs. Whether you need a primary care provider or additional resources to improve your health, they help.

HOPE

Their youth program connects young people experiencing homelessness or aging out of the foster care system to resources and supports their journey toward self-sufficiency.

Together, these social service programs provide more than 50,000 human touches in Dallas and Paris, Texas. Here’s more about how CitySquare services these four key areas for neighbors in need.

By providing fresh groceries, and free, nutritious meals after school and in the summer, they are fighting to end hunger in their city. The Food Pantry operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no pre-registration required. They are open to all zip codes. Neighbors can pick up groceries at the Food Pantry once every two weeks.

CitySquare also fights poverty through many unique programs including Walk-In Case Management and their Housing Programs. More than 600 housing units in Dallas are provided through the CitySquare housing programs.

The mission of CitySquare’s health programs is to improve access to care and the most critical health needs facing South Dallas’ residents. Since 1998, the CitySquare Community Clinic has served adults and children by providing a permanent medical home for the uninsured in the community. Through preventative screenings, a collaborative care team approach, and innovative community-based practices, the CitySquare Community Clinic became recognized in 2012 as a National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Level 3 Patient Centered

Medical Home—the highest level attainable. The Community Health Promotion Program helps neighbors adopt healthy habits and prevent the chronic diseases often prevalent in lower-income communities. CitySquare can even help neighbors sign up for health insurance! And then, CitySquare’s TRAC program connects young people, ages 14-24, who are transitioning from substitute care toward selfsufficiency, with individualized support, planning and access to community services.

CITYSQUARE BLOCK PARTY

On Saturday, September 30th, please join CitySquare from 6:30-10:30pm in The Empire Room to celebrate 35 years of impact. Visit citysquare.org/blockparty to learn more about sponsorships and tickets.

VOLUNTEER

Time is one of the most valuable commodities people have. With a number unique programs, there are many ways you can support the fight against poverty.

DONATE

CitySquare makes it easy for you to give to the fight against poverty. With your support you help feed the hungry, heal the sick, house the homeless, and restore hope in the heart of our city. Your donations and gifts of time make their work possible— impacting over 56,000 neighbors each year. –

citysquare.org

(214) 303-2125

Want to be featured with your kids?

Simply email your contact info to the editor at: elena@societylifemagazine.com. Then you will answer 20 questions and we will take professional photos of you and your kids (we will even give you some!)

INTERVIEW BY SHANNON STEWART SALINSKY

PHOTOS BY LORRAINE HAAN-STEWART

I said so

In this issue of Society Life’s Mom’s column, we asked local nonprofit executive and former teacher Trasa Cobern to answer 20 questions about her experiences both in becoming and being a mom.

Trasa has four children: Brady 24, Caden 22, Jaxon 20 and McCrae 18. Trasa lives with her husband, Kyle, and several of the boys in Hurst. She’s also the daughter of America’s favorite “Uncle Si” from Duck Dynasty, and his wife of 52 years, Christine. Here’s what she had to say…

SOCIETY LIFE: What’s one of your earliest memories you have of your Mom? TRASA COBERN: One of my earliest memories with my mom is sitting at the foot of her sewing desk. She would be creating beautiful clothing for herself, or for me or my brother, moving her foot rhythmically on the foot pedal while the sewing machine whirred away. I loved hearing that sound— my mom was in her happy place then. Unfortunately, she suffered a spinal issue in her neck that makes her unable to sew that way anymore, which is a shame. She was an artist and made such beautiful things. Most of my formal dresses were by her design.

SL: What is something you thought about Motherhood that was totally wrong? TC: I thought Motherhood kind of ended when the kids went to college–whew, was I wrong! Parenting adults is not for the faint of heart, and rivals the time when they were toddlers for worry and stress! I both love and hate Life 360, because I can know where they are when they are traveling, but that strangely makes me worry more. I know my parents sent me off to college at 17, and they lived four states away! We only talked on the phone once a week because long distance phone calls were so expensive! It’s such a different world now.

SL:What’s something you wanted to do but didn’t... and why didn’t you? TC: I always wanted to be a lawyer. I chose to skip law school because I had my first son and wanted to be around for all the child things… new teeth, walking, talking, etc. I decided to become a stay at home mom, and I did that for 12 years. I don’t regret that investment at all!

SL:Was there something your Mom did when you were a kid that you swore you’d never do as a parent? TC: I swore I would never embarrass my kids in front of others, as my parents always liked to tell “funny” stories about me. Now, as an adult, I realize they never meant to embarrass me, but were sharing fond memories of me. It was my perception that made it embarrassing. I’m positive I embarrass my kids now!

SL:What did you think you wanted to be when you grew up? TC: I thought I

wanted to be a judge, maybe even a Supreme Court Justice. But life took a different path, and I became a stay-at-home mom, then a teacher, and now fundraise for a wonderful local Christian nonprofit— 6 Stones. I love my life and wouldn’t change the winding path I’ve taken.

SL: How have your notions of what it means to be a Mom changed over your lifetime? TC: Over my lifetime, my notion of being a mom has changed a lot. I thought of myself more as a supervisor at the beginning, like I needed to watch them constantly. That morphed into being their first teacher for them to learn life lessons, and now that’s changed to being almost a friend, sometimes a confidant, and always their cheerleader!

SL: What’s the best family vacation you’ve ever taken? TC: It was our trip to Alaska several years ago. We love the outdoors and spending time together. It was so fun to whitewater raft, view mountains, and enjoy the 70 degree temperatures in June!

SL: Is there a moment or event that radically changed the way you saw Motherhood? TC: I went to a law school scholarship interview when my firstborn was six months old. I was gone all weekend, and when I returned home, Brady had gotten his first tooth. I bawled like a baby, because I’d missed it. Suffice to say, I chose not to attend law school. I wanted to be completely present as a mother, so I chose to stay at home and have more children.

SL: When did you know you were ready to have kids? TC: I knew I was ready to have kids when I no longer felt like a kid myself. When I was paying bills, buying cars and working full time, it felt natural to move into the next phase of our marriage.

SL: What’s your favorite photo of your family or kids? TC: My favorite photo of my family is from years ago, when my oldest was in 6th grade. My father in law and my husband coached a youth football team, the Giants, for many years, even before we had kids. When Brady was old enough to play for his dad and grandpa, we did a photo shoot with the entire family—all of us along

Momilies

with my in-laws, with whom we are incredibly close. We all wore the team colors – blue and gold. That day is still one of my all-time favorite memories.

SL: What was the first year of motherhood like for you? TC: The first year of motherhood was wonderful. I had the blessing of staying home, but also found a home care provider who kept Brady on Wednesdays, so I had one day a week completely to myself, right in the middle of the week. I loved having the baby, but it was amazing to have “me-time” as well, and I’m so grateful for my husband’s support in that.

SL: What do you want or wish most for your kids? TC: I wish most for my kids to find a spiritual relationship with God. My faith has kept me going in many critical situations, and I’m not sure how I could have made it through without His guidance. I want them to have that foundation so they won’t find the ground buckling under them when things get tough, and also rejoice in their faith when things are wonderful.

SL: What are some of your biggest struggles as a Mom? TC: Some of my biggest struggles as a Mom had to do with discipline. It’s a tightrope: how do you know if you were too harsh, or too lenient? I hated when I lost control of my temper and yelled at them. However, I like my kids a lot as adults and they like to be around me and my husband now, so I think we must have done alright.

SL: What would your perfect day off be like? Describe it. TC: My perfect day would be to take the entire family on a trip somewhere fun and exciting. We would spend all day outside in great weather seeing sights, and then have a wonderful dinner with lots of laughter. The specific details are all flexible, only the people are necessary for it to be a perfect day.

SL: What’s the one song that means the most to you? TC: The single most important song to me is “Just Be Held” by Casting Crowns. When things are going awry in my life, I turn to this song. The most impactful lyric is “Your world’s not falling apart, it’s falling into place.” This helps me retain perspective, and that God has a plan for my life and for my family as well.

SL: What advice would you give to your younger self about Motherhood? TC: I would tell my younger self not to fight all the battles, but to think about what your values are, and what’s important to you. Only fight for the things that matter.

SL: Is there a quote, saying, words of advice or scripture you consider words to live by? TC: I was a history teacher for a decade so I love the quote “History is the weapon with which we defend the future against the past.” But this quote goes deeper than just the classroom. It can also refer to family history. There’s a lot of hurt in families. We can use family history to make the future better, rather than perpetuating the same things into the future. When we learn from history, it changes lives on every level.

SL: If you could share a meal with any woman past, present or future who would it be? Why? TC: I would love to invite Sandra Day O’Conner, the first female Supreme Court Justice, to dinner. I would love to talk constitutional issues and politics with her—as she’s both brilliant and wise.

SL: What Mom from real-life or even TV/movies do you admire most? TC: I admire my mother-in-law, Sina, more than I can even express. She has a servant heart, and loves her family fiercely. We moved back here from Houston after two years away because we missed family so much, and a lot of that was her help with my kids. She was a kindergarten teacher, so she provided my children with incredible, educational activities and fun when I was stressed and tired. She (and my father-in-law) have attended almost every single activity for each one of my children. She called me from Australia once to apologize that they were missing a 2nd grade play! She’s also the single most faithful Christian I’ve ever met, and has mentored me on my walk with God. I don’t know if she knows how much she has impacted me over the past 30 years.

SL: At the end of a long day, what do you do for fun or relaxation? TC: At the end of a long day, I love to be able to take a bubble bath. My husband is the sweetest, and fixes a basket of goodies for me to take into the bathroom, usually berries or melon, and I take a real book with me into the bathtub. The combination of free time, self-care, and reading are just a magical combination for me. Afterwards, I am more refreshed and focused.

– Momilies Column –Would you like to answer 20 questions about motherhood and becoming a mom? If so, you could be featured here in our next Momilies column with your kids and family. Our photographer will take professional photos of you all for the article. We even give you some to keep! Please send contact info to: elena@societylifemagazine.com

SL

FatherHood

HIS PERSPECTIVE: STORIES FROM FATHERHOOD | BY

AUTHENTIC MANHOOD

A Father’s Blessing in the Bible

The blessing of the father is a well-known motif in the patriarchal narratives of Genesis. Esau anguished over losing his father’s blessing (Gen. 27:38), and one whole chapter of Genesis describes the blessing Jacob gave to his 12 sons (Gen. 49). On a wider scale, the New Testament pictures Abraham as our father (Rom. 4:11-12), and the blessing that came through him is the gift of Jesus (Matt. 1:1), through whom all the nations will be blessed (Gen. 12:3). The word blessing is one of the most important words in the Bible. It connotes special favor from a greater to a lesser being. God’s intention in the Bible is to bless humanity, and the way a father blesses his children was to echo this. The blessing of the father involves several key elements, including meaningful touch, a spoken affirmation, and envisioning their future.

A Father’s Blessing Today

I’ve had the privilege of watching father’s bless their children, especially their sons. I have participated in milestone birthday dinners (at 13 or 18 years) where I listened to a father speak words of affirmation and hope to his son. There have also been rituals I have seen involving campfire conversations and knightings with a sword. In all of these, a son feels radiant strength pouring into his soul. It is the gift of seeing himself as a treasured son. It is the gift of settling within him the sure hope of his manhood. The one-time ritual or celebration is a formal declaration of what a good father has been doing all along—actively engaging his son, coaching him, disciplining him, and affirming him through word and deed. The blessing and nurture of a mother’s love is certainly important, but it is the father's blessing that empowers the son or daughter to stand with confidence, clarity and security.

A Father’s Curse

But whatever can be used for good can also be turned into evil. The father's blessing withheld can become a curse, a storm cloud over a child’s life that rains down devastation. The stories are different, but the devastation is universal. There are fathers who leave for other women, fathers who leave for other men, fathers entangled in alcoholism or sexual addiction, fathers whose criticism is a constant sandpaper, fathers whose silence cuts like a cold scalpel, fathers who give up and commit suicide, fathers whose shaming words become defining, fathers whose behavior shames their sons. In each of these a curse falls upon a son, and with it a disassociation from masculinity and his true self. The curse now

plays itself out in tragic ways. A son will turn to anything to ease the pain of such a wound. The anesthetic then becomes an addiction that leads to more confusion and devastation.

Experiencing the Blessing of the Father

For those men who received the father’s blessing, the pathway into the greater blessing of God the Father has been well-marked. But for those who didn't, obstacles and roadblocks lay strewn across the path. But what is impossible with man is possible with God. I do not speak this as a trite proverb. This is the story of my life. Let me end by sharing of how I began to experience both my father’s blessing and God the Father’s blessing. After years of anger with my father over his silence and disengagement, I knew God was asking me to forgive and reconnect. That process took much time along with much failure. But I also discovered more about my father. I found out that he too had a silent father, and for the first time I felt compassion for him. He too never had his father’s blessing and lived with so much anxiety and confusion as a result. I began to bless him, affirming him and even praying with him after our conversations.

One day, as I went to see him at the retirement home, I felt the Lord urging me to ask for his blessing. I resisted. It seemed crazy. My father wouldn’t even know what to do. But toward the end of our conversation, I suddenly blurted out, “Would you bless me?” He looked surprised and changed the subject. I was so deflated. It was just what I thought would happen. This was a bad idea from the start.

Then a few minutes later, he looked at me and asked, “Would you like for me to pray for you?” I was stunned. I immediately said yes, and over the next few minutes I heard an outpouring of hope and affirmation for me with halting, yet genuine words. That moment began to change so many things for me, the most important of which was opening my heart to receive the Father’s blessing and love as His son.

No doubt your story will be different from mine. For some of you, your father may be unapproachable or already dead. But the process of forgiveness, reconciliation, and seeking to bless is still the same. And remember, the Father above can supply whatever your father could not give you. This is our inheritance from Christ. This is the great undoing of the curse.

Fathers: The Blessing and the Curse

The hope for a father is etched into the soul. But it is a tenuous hope, yielding joy to some and misery to others. It is the blessing and curse of fathers. I want to explore how earthly fathers shape a man’s heart. From my conversations with many men, I have seen the blessing and curse of fathers in stark contrast. For our fathers leave an imprint like no other, whether for ill or good.

NOW THRU SEPT 4 • GAYLORD TEXAN’S SUMMER OF MORE • It’s time for a summer of more! At Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, the adventures are endless! Discover thrilling water parks, join a fantastical pirate crew, and save with summer stay offers. You’ll find everything you need for the perfect getaway. More adventure. Check out the multiple Escape Room options or be amazed by the daring aerial artistes of Summer Cirque. Discover it all in Pirate and Princess themed activities. More thrills. Race your friends to the bottom of the waterslides at Paradise Springs waterpark! More relaxation. Find relaxing rejuvenation of mind, body and soul at award-winning spas. More flavors. Delectable cuisine sure to delight at an array of world-class dining. Make more memories with your family this summer! Explore a summer of more by visiting: gaylordtexan.com/summerfest .................................................................

JULY 27, AUG 3 & 10 • ROCKIN’ THE RIVER

Have #FunOnThursdays with live music, food and drinks and more at the Panther Island Pavilion beach. Enjoy top Texas Country acts and a little rock and soul. Tube up to the waterfront stage or chill on the shore with a brew and enjoy live music in the coolest seat in town. Join us for Carson Jeffrey July 27, Dirty River Boys August 3, and Triston Marez on August 10. Gates open at 5pm. The Fort Worth music venue is located at: 395 Purcey Street, Fort Worth. For more details visit: rockintheriverfw.com .................................................................

AUG 5, 12, 19, 26

• THE VITRUVIAN SALSA

FESTIVAL • Dance the night away as Vitruvian Salsa Festival returns to Addison’s Vitruvian Park amphitheater each Saturday in August. DJ Colombiano will warm up the crowd each week before bands Grupo Cache (Aug. 5), Zone D’ Mambo (Aug. 12), Tumbaka (Aug. 19) and Havana NRG (Aug. 26) take the stage. The festival runs from 6-10pm each week with professional salsa dancing lessons from 6:30-7pm. These outdoor events are free and open to the public. For event related updates, including cancellations and parking, please visit the calendar on the Vitruvian Park website or follow on social media: udr.com/vitruvian-park/vitruvian-park-events .................................................................

an event that raises funds for need-based scholarships to support Hispanic nursing students in DFW and surrounding counties. This premier evening event celebrates the student recipients of their Nursing Scholarships and recognizes an individual (Hispanic Healthcare Excellence Award) who makes a true difference in the lives of their students. A full evening of activities is planned for this event, including a silent and live auction, live music from Havana NRG, a cigar bar, dinner, a hat bar, and more. Tickets for this special one-night event is $150. VIP tickets also available. For more event details please visit: cuidadocaserofoundation.org .................................................................

AUG 24-27 • CINDERELLA • Lyric Stage presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Broadway Version) Aug. 24-27, 2023 at the Majestic Theatre. The show is rated G for the whole family. Show times are Thurs, Fri, Sat, and Sun at 7:30pm and Sat and Sun matinees at 2:30pm. Tickets start at $45. Preview night tickets are available for $38. Student rush tickets are available for $20 beginning 90 minutes before each performance. VIP tickets are available Fri-Sun for $100 and include orchestra center pit seating and a photo op with Cinderella after the show. Tickets may be purchased by calling the box office (214) 871-5000 or visit: ticketdfw.com

SEPT 7 • SOUTHLAKE NEWCOMERS CLUB

COCKTAILS & CAMARADERIE OPEN HOUSE

album of the same name by seven-time Grammy Award winner Alanis Morissette, the Tony and Grammy Award-winning production will make its Bass Hall debut in a limited engagement September 1517 as part of the 2023-2024 Broadway at Bass Season. Tickets start at $44 and can be purchased by calling (817) 212-4280 or online visit: basshall.com/jaggedlittlepill

SEPT 15-17 • ADDISON OKTOBERFEST •

Addison Oktoberfest has been recognized as one of the most authentic German Oktoberfest celebrations outside of Munich since its inception 36 years ago. For four days each September, people come together in Addison to revel in German culture, food, music and bier, enjoying a taste of the original Oktoberfest with a purely Texan twist. Tickets for Thursday, Sept. 14 and Sunday, Sept. 17 are free! Friday, Sept. 15 to Saturday, Sept. 16 the tickets are $10 ages 10+ and under 10 are free. Oktoberfest is held at the Addison Circle Park located at 4970 Addison Circle. Tickets will be available for advance purchase at 10am Wed., Aug. 2, 2023 at: AddisonOktoberfest.com

SEPT 29 - OCT 22 • STATE FAIR OF TEXAS • Back again and better than ever! Where can you find larger-than-life dinosaurs, a contortionist archer, and the most epic water ballon fight you’ve ever see? Only at the State Fair of Texas! They have lots of new and exciting shows and attractions for you to enjoy this Fall and its all included with your admission ticket. Check out the full listing of shows and plan your next Fair adventure at: bigtex.com .................................................................

AUG 18 • CCF SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS AND

FUNDRAISER GALA HAVANA NIGHTS

Join us for the 4th Annual CCF Scholarship Awards and Fundraiser Gala “Havana Nights” on Saturday, August 12, 2023. The gala will be held at The Worthington Renaissance Hotel is located at 200 Main Street in Fort Worth 76102. Cuidado Casero Foundation Scholarship Fundraiser Gala is

Southlake Newcomers Club (SNC) invites you to their Cocktails and Camaraderie Open House. SNC welcomes women in and around the Southlake area. Meet new friends and get connected. Snacks and beverages will be served. This is a meet and greet where all women, of all ages, can learn about SNC special interest groups and events planned for the coming year. This is a social club that focuses on fun and friendships. Monthly activities include: luncheons, game nights, hiking/walking, cocktail parties, pickle ball, mahjongg, philanthropy, cards, movies, dominoes, book club outings and so much more! New guests receive free admission. Both longtime and new residents welcome. Hope to see you there on Thursday, September 7th from 6-8pm at the Trophy Club Country Club located at 500 Trophy Club Drive. Please RSVP to: SNCPublicity@gmail.com and visit: southlakenewcomers.com .................................................................

SEPT 14-17 • JAGGED LITTLE PILL AT BASS

HALL • Bass Performance Hall announced that tickets are on sale now for ‘Jagged Little Pill.’ Inspired by the seminal rock

SEPT 30 • CONCERTS ON HARWOOD • Concerts on Harwood is a classical music concert series that shares the joy of classical music with neighbors. Join us for a Piano Recital by Tak Yan Yeung—concert pianist, piano faculty at the University of Dallas and Tarrant County College joined by the organist at Emmanuel Presbyterian Church. Ticket price is free, but donations are appreciated. Concert will be Saturday September 30, 2023 at 4pm at Emmanuel Presbyterian Church that’s located at 2701 Harwood Road in Bedford 76021. For more visit: emmanuelpc.org

Event listings are first-come, first-served. Please include your event’s name, date, time, location, ticket pricing, contact information, website, and a brief explanation. We ask 45 days advance notice of your event. Please email listing to us at: elena@societylifemagazine.com

SL

BY MARY MACDOWELL

Hot Hatch Chili Walk,Run & Roll

Benefitting the Neuro Assistance Foundation

Fourteen-year-old Andrew dove into a pool, sustained a spinal cord injury (SCI), and was paralyzed from the neck down. Unfortunately, Andrew’s family did not have insurance. Purchasing a new power wheelchair would cost upwards of $25,000. Andrew's case manager contacted the Neuro Assistance Foundation of Keller (NAF). A power wheelchair had recently been donated to NAF and was the right seat size. Carter, age six, is living with neuromuscular scoliosis, and his physician requested special mobility equipment for him that his insurance denied. NAF was happy to provide the McLaren Major Elite Push Chair stroller to help with mobility. Evelyn, age 35, is paralyzed from a spinal cord tumor. Her social worker requested that NAF provide vital equipment for Evelyn to remain independent. She was given a manual wheelchair, walker, transfer board, and bathroom equipment. The gift of giving independence and mobility is priceless! Spinal cord injuries are some of the most severe injuries an individual can face. They often result in devastating disabilities. The financial consequences of any spinal cord injury can be much more extensive than people realize. Every aspect of their lives will require special accommodations. Even if a person with SCI has private health insurance, most find that their insurance has limits, especially regarding mobility equipment. As a result, the individuals who suffer from these injuries desperately need helping hands.

Neuro Assistance Foundation serves the spinal cord community by providing minor modifications to the home or vehicle, financial assistance towards rehabilitative services, and providing muchneeded durable medical equipment. Providing these basic needs for individuals with spinal cord injuries or disabilities creates a safe environment that can deter future hospital stays. NAF’s mission is to help with mobility equipment, home modifications, vehicle modifications, and technology to ensure maximum independence and self-sufficiency for their clients.

In 2022, NAF helped 580 clients, up from 451 the previous year. They just helped their 2,000th client—6-year-old Daniel, who needed a loaner wheelchair. Almost 50% of those helped were under the age of 18. Their youngest was 15-month-old Laura, who was born with spina bifida. NAF provided catheters while she waited for assistance from Children with Special Health Care Needs program. Their oldest is 92-year-old Ruby, who sustained traumatic incomplete tetraplegia in a fall. NAF assisted with an EZee Life Shower Chair and ROHO mattress overlay. Many of these adaptive vehicles and large equipment are provided by generous donors or purchased with money raised during yearly events. That’s why NAF wants you to sign up for the Hot Hatch Chili Run, Walk, and Roll race at Central Market in Southlake on Saturday, August 19th. People of all ages and disabilities are welcome to participate to help raise money for those in our community living with spinal cord injuries and disabilities. NAF Executive Director, Cindi Cooperman, states, “This is the 14th Annual Hot Hatch Chile Run, Walk & Roll. Proceeds from this event are dedicated to providing assistance to adults and children in our community who are living with spinal cord injuries/disorders. So many of

FAST FACTS

14TH ANNUAL HOT HATCH CHILE RUN, WALK & ROLL

Saturday, August 19th from 6-11 am

CENTRAL MARKET

1425 E SOUTHLAKE BLVD

SOUTHLAKE, TEXAS 76092

• Hot Central Market Hatch Chile breakfast is included with entry

• Awards ceremony in the Central Market Cafe patio with DJ after

• Martin House Brewing will be set up on the patio

• All finishers will receive medals and T-shirts

TICKETS:

• 5K – $40

• 10K – $50

• 1 Mile Fun Run – $25

• 5K Handcycle – Free

• 5K Wheelchair – Free

• 10K Handcycle – Free

CAN’T COME TO THE RACE?

A virtual run can be completed at any location. You can walk, use the treadmill, run outside, or participate in another race.

• Virtual Run - $40

NeuroAssistance.org

SL 6 Questions About

our clients show up to race in their wheelchairs and handcycles to prove that the human will is unbreakable. I hope someday there will be a cure for spinal cord injuries, but until then, NAF will continue to help those affected to improve their quality of life. I consider it an honor to provide support to those living with paralysis.”

WHO: Neuro Assistance Foundation is a 501c3 public charity dedicated to assisting spinal cord injured individuals and those living with spinal cord diseases and birth defects in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex and Greater Houston areas. Suppose you or someone you know lives with a spinal cord injury, spinal cord disability or birth defect, and resides in the DFW Metroplex and Greater Houston areas. In that case, NAF will strive to ensure you have the equipment necessary to be mobile and independent.

WHAT: 14th Annual Hot Hatch Chile Run, Walk & Roll Presented by Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation

• Hot Central Market Hatch Chile Breakfast is included with your entry

• Awards ceremony in the Central Market Cafe patio with DJ afterward

• Martin House Brewing will be set up on the patio

• All finishers will receive medals and T-shirts.

WHERE: Central Market at 1425 E Southlake Blvd., Southlake

WHEN: RACES: Saturday, August 19th from 6-11am .........................................................................................................

PACKET PICKUP

• Friday, August 18th, 1-6pm at Central Market Cafe entrance

• Race Day Pickup: Saturday race morning 6-7:30am at the site .........................................................................................................

EVENT SCHEDULE

• 6-7:30am - Registration & Packet Pickup

• 7am - 1Mile run/walk/roll

• 7:30am - 10K Handcycle start

• 7:31am - 10K Run/Walk start • 7:40am - 5K Handcycle start

• 7:41am - 5K Run/Walk start

• 9am - Awards Ceremony

.........................................................................................................

AWARDS:

• Overall Male/Female 5K/10K

• Master Male/Female 5K/10K

• Grand Masters Male/Female 5K/10K

• Top Three Finishers in each age category:

• 0-10, 11-14, 15-18, 19-24, 25-29, 30-24, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75+

(1M Fun Run is not timed or awarded)

WHY: Even with health insurance, most companies no longer pay for durable medical equipment.

• The average yearly expense for spinal cord injury (SCI) can range from $228,566 to $775,567 in the first year, depending on the severity of the injury

• Estimated lifetime costs can range from $681,843 to over $3 million for a 25-year-old

• A manual wheelchair for people with paraplegia averages $5,000, and a power wheelchair for a quadriplegic average $25,000

• It is not uncommon for SCI individuals to wait 2-4 years for equipment assistance from other agencies –

HOW: Your participation in this event can make a difference for those born or injured with spinal cord injuries. Neuro Assistance Foundation will strive to ensure that every spinal cord-injured or disabled person in our community has the equipment necessary to be mobile and independent. Registration fees increase by $5 the week of the race, August 14-19.

TICKETS:

• 5K – $40

• 10K – $50

• 1 Mile Fun Run – $25

• 5K Handcycle – Free

• 5K Wheelchair – Free

• 10K Handcycle – Free

(The minimum age to participate in the 10K is 9, and 5K is 6. There is no minimum age for the 1 mile.)

VIRTUAL RUN: Can't come to the race? A virtual run can be completed at any location. You can walk, use the treadmill, run outside, or participate in another race.

• Virtual Run - $40

DONATIONS ARE IMPERATIVE: Whenever someone donates their time or resources to NAF, they contribute directly to one of their clients. Each donation helps to create independence and freedom. Whether you’re contributing by donating a product for a fundraising event, volunteering at an event, or financially supporting their organization, you are making an impact. Visit: neuroassistance.org/about/giving-thanks .........................................................................................................

GET INVOLVED: To assist with a special NAF event, spread the word about NAF, or help them raise valuable financial support, contact Events Manager Rozel Moore.

HOT HATCH CHILI RUN, WALK & ROLL BENEFITTING THE NEURO ASSISTANCE FOUNDATION

AMERICAN / ECLECTIC ......................................

Babe’s Chicken Dinner House • Fried chicken as good as grandma’s, but she’s got better things to do, like chow down on unlimited sides. Warm biscuits with butter and honey are reason to go. • Roanoke and NRH babeschicken.com $ L D

Blue 22 Sports Grill • Locally owned, family gathering spot with a scratch kitchen offering prime sporting events—what more could you ask for? This is a perfect family friendly sports bar! • Trophy Club blue22sportsgrill.com $-$$ L D R

Chef Point Modern Bar & Restaurant • Fine dining redefined. With indoor and outdoor dining spaces, they accommodate private and semi-private parties. Catering available. • Colleyville chefpointcafe.org $-$$ (Brunch) L D

Chill Restaurant & Bar • Sports headquarters for business meetings, company parties, wedding receptions and rehearsals, birthdays and anniversaries. Outdoor patio, live music and ladies night. • Grapevine chillgrapevine.com $ L D R

Craft & Vine • Stunning indoor-outdoor watering hole. Everything from expansive beer and wine choices to a menu of shareable plates invites conversation. Happy hour with martinis and sunsets. • Roanoke craftandvine.restaurant $$ L D R

FnG Eats • American grill comfort cuisine serving memories with a twist. A decidedly casual neighborhood spot where you get both a good burger and a dressed-up plate of mussels. The bar is just as vibrant. • Keller fngeats.com $$ ((runch) L D R

HG Sply Co. • Healthy has never been more indulgent. Using all-natural, minimally processed ingredients, the menu satisfies almost anything, whether you’re on a restricted diet or throwing caution to the wind. • Trophy Club hgsplyco.com $$ L D

Horizon 76 • Order a burger served “bone-in” or topped with mac and cheese and bacon, or chicken pot pie made with fried chicken chunks and crowned with a crispy chicken tender. Build s’mores. • Fort Worth horizon76.com $$ L D

Leela’s Wine Bar • Wine should be easy, eco-friendly and enjoyable—that’s why their wine is on tap. Tap is less bottles, less waste, consistent quality—glass after glass. Consider this your new wine bar. • Trophy Club leelaswinebar.com $$ D

Mason & Dixie • Celebrating all things Southern—a neighborhood gathering place. Take them up on their BYOB invite when shrimp and grits is on their specials board. • In Grapevine Antique Market facebook.com/masonanddixie $ L

Stone House Restaurant • Regionally inspired, locally sourced proteins and a chef’s garden. Sharables, craft beer, cocktails, wine, chops. Must-try 1200-degree broiled steak. • Colleyville stonehouse-restaurant.com $$-$$$ D

TruFire Kitchen & Bar • Consistent menu, exemplary burger of akaushi beef or truffle-scented mac and cheese. Banana split and handcrafted cocktails are a must. Gluten free and vegetarian menus. • Southlake trufire.us $$ B L D

ASIAN / SUSHI / THAI

Cowtown Sushi • Unexpectedly refined sushi and sashimi. They’ve had “hidden gem” status for way too long. Chefs are eager to impress diners, making this an environment to expand your palate. • Southlake cowtownsushi.com $-$$ L D

Foster’s Sushi, Seafood, Bar & Grill • Creative style to fill your appetite. Indoor and outdoor bar with friendly staff and total of 10 flat screen TVs to suit all sports fans, plus happy hour from 3-6pm. • Roanoke fostersushi.com $-$$ L D

Honey Teriyaki • Quality Japanese food—teriyaki and sushi. Many sauces made from scratch with honey—hence the name. Large portions, reasonable prices, friendly service, legit food. • Colleyville tinyurl.com/honeyteriyaki $-$$ L D

j Hush Sushi • Posh location with elevated sushi and drink menu. Don’t miss their Wagyu burger. Foodies will flock to Hush for happy hour specials and their vast selection of Maki, Nigiri and Sashimi. • Keller hushkeller.com $$-$$$ L D

Maki & Poké • Sushi rolls and Hawaiian bowls—here you don’t have to choose! Incredibly fresh and generous sushi rolls. BYOB (build your own bowl) is a fav. Very deserving of their many 5-star ratings! • NRH tinyurl.com/nrhpoke $-$$ L D

Malai Kitchen • Thai-Vietnamese mash-up—with silky curries, sriracha made in-house. Imaginative beverage program with house-brewed beers. A rand finale, Mango Sticky Rice Smash. • Southlake malaikitchen.com $$-$$$ L D

My Lan Vietnamese Kitchen • Big, steaming bowls of pho, heaping rice plates and rows of crispy egg rolls. Vietnamese staples are soulful and flavorful with reasonable prices . • Colleyville my-lan-vietnamese-kitchen.business.site $ L D

Moxie’s Grill & Bar

• Crowd pleaser serving globallyinspired fare like Thai curry bowls, tuna ceviche, steak frites. Fun, sophisticated setting that’s equal parts sports bar and eclectic brasserie. • Southlake us.moxies.com $$-$$$ L D

Next Wood Fired Bistro & Vino Bar • Intimate, and refined restaurant serving everything from simple roasted chicken or crab cakes, to lamb tagine or surf and turf. Acclaimed wine program. • Colleyville nextwoodfiredbistro.com $$$ L D

Oak Street Food and Brew • Food hall with chef-driven food—from fish and chips to overstuffed baked potatoes, to craft bbq. Expansive in and out—gathering place for groups.

• Roanoke oakstreetfoodandbrew.com $-$$ B L D

PIAF Kitchen+Wine+Bar • From power lunch to happy hour, to a romantic date night. Weekends start with buffet brunch and end with drinks on rooftop bar. Flatbreads, seafood, steak. • Grapevine piafkitchen.com $$-$$$ (Brunch) L D

Sky Creek Grill • In Sky Creek Ranch Golf Club—bistro dishes with contemporary western flair. Steak, salmon, pasta, salads, sandwiches, hamburgers, cold beer. Restaurant and bar open to public.

• Keller skycreekranch.com $-$$ B L D

Sky Creek Kitchen + Bar • Sky Creek embodies casual elegance with sleek, understated décor—prime destination for a special celebration, family dinner, romantic evening, or afterwork drinks.

• Southlake skycreekkitchen.com $-$$ L D

Social Oak Wine & Whiskey Lounge • 21+ lounge with a speakeasy vibe, comfy patio, state-of-the-art wine and whiskey pouring systems, amazing tapas style dishes—an experience like no other. • Trophy Club socialoaklounge.com $$-$$$ D R

j Sports City Taverna • A menu strong on options—wood fired pizza, street tacos, burgers, brunch. Whether your team wins or loses, you’re a winner with the best food and drinks in the city

• NFW sportscitytaverna.com $-$$ (Brunch) L D R

NAPA Thai Asian Cuisine • Unique Thai restaurant that offers a glimpse of traditional Thai culture—where balance and harmony come together in a relaxing, yet elegant atmosphere. • Colleyville napathaicuisine.com $-$$ L D

Noodles @ Boba Tea House • Generously portioned, skillfully prepared Vietnamese, pan-Asian dishes. Try the spicy beef noodle soup, Thai beef salad and the Mocha Madness smoothie. • Fort Worth noodlesbth.com $ L D

Sabai Sabai Southeast Asian Kitchen • Expect pad Thai, massaman curry, pho, also explore Lao beef jerky, steamed fish or a marinated beef salad. Dine in or takeout. Food packs plenty of flavor. • Grapevine sabaisabaikitchen.com $ L D

Saikou Sushi & Ramen • Well-executed Japanese cuisine. Slurp tonkotsu ramen, pork-forward broth, superb vegetable ramen, classic miso, shoyu and shio varieties. Sushi and bento boxes. • Alliance saikousushiramen.com $-$$ L D

j Sea Siam Thai • Food captures the essence of Thailand. Using the freshest ingredients with traditional Thai cooking techniques, you can sip tea while browsing menu of the finest Thai foods. • Keller seasiamrestaurant.com $$ L D

Sushi Dojo • Premier fast-casual sushi restaurant specializing in party trays, office/event catering, and food truck service. Known for sushi tacos and burritos. Delicious, affordable, high quality sushi. • Southlake sushidojodfw.com $-$$ L D

Sushi Nomi • Modern Japanese with inventive sushirolls, ramen, teriyaki and more, plus beer and wine. Choose from delicious lunch options like bento boxes, fried rice, sushi specials.

• Fort Worth facebook.com/SushiNomiTexas $-$$ L D

Sushi Sam • Lunch deals like loaded bento boxes. Management is always warm and personable, which is reflected in their friendly service. Amazing salmon skin rolls (not the easiest to pull off). • Southlake sushisam.net $ L D

Thailicious • Authentic Thai in a contemporary, relaxed environment. Soft shell crab, creamy curries, Crying Tiger and pad Thai. Seek out tom yum-inspired martinis and mojitos. • Southlake ThailiciousSouthlake.com $$ L D

V’s House • Family-owned Vietnamese restaurant offering upscale takes on classic dishes—plus surprises. You’ll find staples of Vietnamese cuisine, including pho varieteies—all made in-house. Creative cocktail menu. • NRH vshouse.net $-$$ L D

Wine:30 • Wine bar featuring Texas wineries/wine makers, complimented by wines from California, France, and Italy— also offering a handful of locally brewed craft beers, flatbreads and charcuterie board pairings. • Roanoke w30.wine $-$$ L D

BAKERIES / TREATS / COFFEE / TEA / JUICE .......

Axiom Coffee • Coffee house with purpose. Organic beans sourced from small Honduras producers from a farm run by World Gospel Outreach employing single moms to harvest and supports an orphanage. • NFW axiomcoffee.com $ B L D

j Ben’s Cookies • Founded in 1983 in Oxford, England— lovingly brought to Texas! Freshly baked with chocolate chunks “not chips.” It’s all about making the very best cookies they can, every single day. • Grapevine benscookies.us $-$$

Board + Brie • A curated array of noshables that pair perfectly with wine and talk. Cheese and charcuterie grazing boxes and boards, crowd-pleasing fare or feasts for one. Pick up or delivery. Catering for tables. • Roanoke boardbrie.com $$-$$$ L D

Brew & Batter • Locally owned, stand alone house serving good coffee! Not to mention waffles! There offer two bases— cornbread and a liege waffle (a european waffle made with yeast daily)

• Grapevine brew-batter.business.site $ B L D

Buzzed Bull Creamery • Made-to-order, alcoholic and nonalcoholic frozen dessert and coffee company—harnessing the power of liquid nitrogen to bring a one-of-a-kind-experience to guests. • Grapevine buzzedbullcreamery.com $ L D

Alli’s Sweet Shop • Delicious cake pops for any event, celebration or just because! They deliver your bouquet just like a florist and brighten the day of any recipient! Cookies, cakes, cupcakes, treats. • Southlake cakepopsbyalli.com $ L D

Creative Memories Bakery • Cupcakes, smash cakes, wedding, birthday, graduation, shower, gender reveal and baby shower cakes, petit fours, cookies, brownies, cake balls/pops, ding dongs. • Fort Worth yourcakeplace.com $-$$

Crumbl Cookies • Giant cookies delivered! Chocolate chip, chilled sugar cookie and rotating flavors like key lime pie, salted caramel cheesecake, birthday cake or German chocolate. Open ‘til midnight! • Southlake crumblcookies.com $

Doughlicious • Offering scoops of raw, safe-to-eat dough in chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, sugar cookie, banana pudding and s’mores. Grab a multi-pack of mini scoops to share. • Grapevine doughlicioususa.com $

Dr. Sue’s Chocolate • Doctor by trade, master chocolatier at heart, Dr. Sue Williams crafts the finest chocolate specimens you’ve ever had. Delightful creations like chocolate bark, truffles, and chocolate bars. • Grapevine drsueschocolate.com $

j GOrganic Eats • High quality, organic, non-GMO, real food and drinks offered with the knowledge to empower you to make informed decisions as to what goes in your body (formerly DessertsRx). • Colleyville dessertsrx.com $ B L D

Hey Sugar Candy Shop • Bulk candies and popcorn, syrups and flavorings from an old-fashioned soda fountain. Chocolates by Nib Chocolates. Ice cream made in a machine from the 1920s. • Roanoke heysugarcandy.com $-$$

JudyPie • Time-tested recipes, anchored by shortbread crust, elevate flavors like apple, pecan, buttermilk, banana cream into their best versions. By the slice or whole (large or small rounds). Gluten free, vegan, paleo. • Grapevine judypie.com $ L D

Juice Junkies • No need to be a health nut to appreciate juice blends, smoothies, whole food snacks and cold-brewed coffee drinks, but they just might convert you. Cold-pressed. Restocked regularly. • Keller juicejunkies.com $ B L

Kindred Coffee Co. • A love for craft coffee and local community—they find the best coffee and roast it at their shop. Stop by for a cup, fresh salad, gelato or one of their pastries.• North Richland Hills kindredcoffeeco.com $ B L D

‘Lette Macarons • Elegant French sandwich cookies readymade for gifting. Endlessly customizable. Offers a selection of fine shortbread cookies and will soon offer macaron ice cream sandwiches. • Southlake lettemacaron.com $

Native Coffee + Kitchen • Refreshing, independent voice serving unapologetic interpretations of comfort food favs—pancakes, tacos, burgers and nachos—alongside coffee made with Texas-roasted bean. nativeck.com $ B L D

Nothing Bundt Cakes • Made fresh daily using eggs, butter and cream cheese. Bite-sized Bundtinis, single serving Bundtlets, 8” and 10” cakes and double-tiered cakes. Daily samples show how yummy it is! • Southlake nothingbundtcakes.com $

Personalized Grazing • Specializing in customized charcuterie boards and personalizing your culinary experiences, they offer classes, gifts, filled and unfilled boards, even custom boards. • Southlake personalizedgrazing.com $-$$$ B L D

Redefined Coffee House • Locals gather for birthdays, meetings, and conversation—and everyone sips macchiatos and iced lattes made with Avoca coffee beans. • Grapevine redefinedcoffeehouse.com $ B L D

Texas Harvest Pie Co. • Small pie shop feels like home. Lovingly crafted pies like apple, blueberry, buttermilk, key lime taste like grandmas if she’s an expert baker. Serving lunch. • Keller facebook.com/texasharvestpiecompany $-$$

j To Chai For • To Chai For is a go-to for satisfying cravings! Serving coffee, chai lattes, paninis, scones, and waffles—every sip and bite is full of flavor, and made from scratch. Nothing prepackaged ever! • Keller coffeekeller.com $ B L D

BARBECUE

........................................................

Back Forty Smokehouse • Brisket, ribs, full bar, outdoor patio, friendly service, locally owned—should we keep going. Back Forty is conveniently located next to the new Tex Rail train station. • NRH backfortysmokehouse.com $-$$ L D

Feedstore BBQ • Local fav with quality meats and the freshest veggies available. Ridiculously good chopped beef, chicken, sausage and fall-off-the-bone ribs, fried okra, spicy beans and amazing rolls. • NRH feedstorebbq.com $-$$ L D R

Hard Eight Pit BBQ • Authentic mesquite barbecue. Award winning cuisine. “Old World” slow cooking over pits adopted from German settlers who came to the Texas Hill Country long ago. • Roanoke hardeightbbq.com $-$$ L D R

Meat U Anywhere BBQ • “Meating” your BBQ and catering needs. Slow smoked with seasoned oak and hickory. Exclusive sides, special offerings, ultimate breakfast tacos • Grapevine and Trophy Club meatuanywhere.com $-$$ B L D R

Red Barn Bar-B-Que • Best all you can eat catfish on Friday nights, and sausage and turkey around town. Rustic counter service with generous plates and comfort grub in. • Colleyville redbarnbarbque.com $-$$ L D

BREAKFAST (+ lunch/dinner) .............................

Another Broken Egg Cafe • Twists on Eggs Benedict and Omelettes, Biscuit Beignets, Cinnamon Roll French Toast and much more. Brunch is the most important meal of the week! • Southlake anotherbrokenegg.com $-$$ B (Brunch) L

Bacon’s Bistro & Cafe • Breakfast diner with really good service, food and company—sandwiches, soups and salads for lunch. It’s common to have a wait on weekends because it’s just that darn good! • Hurst baconsbistroandcafe.com $$ B L

Black Walnut Cafe • Classic fare, upscale flair. Handcrafted sandwiches to chilled local craft brews to swirly rows of gelato. Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner every day of the week. • Colleyville blackwalnutcafe.com $-$$ B L D

DeVivo Bros. Eatery • Rustic comfort food on Americanized menu with Italian flair. Bold flavor, large portions, meatloaf, pastas, sandwiches with rustic simplicity and refined elegance. • Keller devivobroseatery.com $-$$ B L D

Kassandra’s Mexican Kitchen • Hidden gem. Great lunch with well-priced specials. Tortillas live up to the name. Put it on your list for breakfast, served all day. Breakfast quesadilla, beans and potatoes—a good reason to get up early! • Keller $ B L D

Main Street Bistro & Bakery (Bistro M) • Local gem with foodie following (and a Gallic accent). Chocolate bomb cake that makes your toes curl. Best croissants. Must-try pastries and desserts • Grapevine themainbakery.com $$ B L D

Mangos Breakfast Brunch • French toast, chicken, waffles, omelets. Taking shots at convention with duck bacon burgers, s’mores waffles, skillets with chicken fried steak, stuffed avocados. • Southlake, Keller mangosbb.com $$ B (Brunch) L

Oldwest Cafe • Big menu, big portions, good value. Saddle up that horse and hit the trail for Oldwest Cafe... pretty darn sure ya’ might like it! Breakfast served all day long (or until we go home for the day)! • Grapevine oldwestcafe.us $ B L

Rush Bowls • Smoothies in a bowl with fruit and toppings. Featuring all-natural fruit and açai blended until thick and creamy, these are a healthy alternative dessert or a perfect meal. Perfect refueling stop. • Keller rushbowls.com $ B L D

Seven Mile Café • Fans flock for specialty pancakes, Gouda grits, egg dishes and Stumptown coffee. You cannot go wrong with benedicts or the pancake sampler. Vegan and gluten-free options. sevenmilecafe.com $-$$ B (Brunch) L

Stevie’s Diner • A unique, family-owned and operated throwback dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious breakfast or lunch, head over to Stevie’s Diner. • North Fort Worth steviesdiner.com $ B L

Starwood Cafe • Specializing in breakfast and lunch at eight locations around DFW, and serving breakfast all day—this is your new brunch destination. Vast menu serving all your favs. • Trophy Club, NRH starwoodcafe.com $-$$ B L

Sunny Street Café • Serving hearty American fare—with gluten-free options. Dine-in or carry-out, this is your neighborhood destination for fresh, wholesome food and friendly service served daily. • Roanoke sunnystreetcafe.com $-$$ B L

Toasted Yolk • Perfectly poached eggs, strip after strip of crunchy bacon, layer upon layer of turkey and pastrami—these are delicacies we dream about at night, and they’re the ones we want to wake up to! • Keller thetoastedyolk.com $-$$ B L

Townhouse Brunch • Twists on omelettes, benedicts, pancakes, salads, sandwiches. Lean sweet (banana Nutella crepes) or savory (“everything spiced” avocado toast), your cravings is covered. • Colleyville townhousebrunch.com $$ B (Brunch) L

BRITISH ...........................................................

From Across the Pond • Get your British classics—fish and chips, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie and more—plus, burgers, sandwiches, pastas and salads from beyond the pond. • Colleyville acrossthepond.site $ L D

The Londoner Pub and Grill • Pub turning out English classics like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash with confidence. Their decor screams typical English pub. • Colleyville thelondonerpub.com $$ L D

BURGERS / SANDWICHES ................................

Bottlecap Alley Icehouse Grill • 100% Fresh Angus Beef, name brand quality meats, whole veggies chopped in-house daily and local artisan buns. A place where kids and adults co-mingle successfully. • Grapevine bottlecapalley.com $ L D

Chick & Biscuit • Southern food done right! Home-style comfort food—from spicy hot chicken to pulled pork, brisket, and sausage gravy, the menu honors the South. Inside Harvest Hall. • Grapevine chickandbiscuit.com $$ L D

Fred’s Texas Cafe • Nationally acclaimed hamburgers, fabulous chicken-fried steak, the coldest beer in town—that’s Fred’s—a beloved local dive that’s serious about food! • TCU, Fort Worth, NFW fredstexascafe.com $-$$ L D

Kincaid’s Hamburgers • Where friends meet to eat! Hypefree, good-old-burgers, ice cream shakes, deviled eggs, stuffed jalepenos, fried okra, chicken sandwiches, banana pudding. • Southlake and Alliance kincaidshamburgers.com $ L D

LA Burger • Beautifully seared meat, thoughtful layering, oozy cheese, toasty buns—burgers executed with California flair. Tacos, fries, hot dogs, salads and shakes served counter-style, all with a fresh multi-culti twist. • Keller la-burger.com $ L D

Old Town Ice House • Burgers, po-boys, wings, tacos, salads, artisan brews—celebrating the ice industry in its heyday, as well as the founding of Keller during that era. Raise an ice-cold glass with us! • Keller oldtownicehouse.com $ L D

The Pour Shack • Comes alive as the sun sets! Cover bands and DJs pump up the scene and the music at this big indoor/outdoor bar serving up burgers and drink specials. Your neighborhood bar. • Keller thepourshack.com $-$$ L D

The Station Patio Icehouse • Gathering place to enjoy good food, good drinks and good music. It’s everything you’d want your own backyard to be, with all the people you love and none of the work! • Keller stationicehouse.com $$ L D

CAJUN ..............................................................

Bayou Jack’s Cajun Grill • Part soulfuajun, part vibrant cocktails, two parts bon temps. Jambalaya, po boys, grilled oysters, étouffée. Drink swamp juice, Hurricane Kris and Abita on tap. • Roanoke bayoujackscajungrill.com $-$$ L D

Copeland’s • Authentic taste of the Big Easy adjacent to the Hilton Southlake lobby. Soul satisfying eggplant pirogue and mind-blowing bananas foster French toast. • (In the Hilton Hotel) Southlake copelandsofneworleans.com $-$$ B L D

The Lost Cajun • Real and authentic Cajun food from the gumbo and jambalaya to the fried seafood—it’s like you’re in Louisiana! Awesome frozen drinks and food you can taste! • Keller thelostcajun.com $-$$ L D

GREEK .............................................................

Café Medi • Devoted fans—they give as much attention to vegetarian dishes as their succulent grilled and braised meats. BYOB. Salads, hummus, falafel and fool. Their lamb shanks really shine. • Keller and Hurst cafemedi.com $-$$ L D R

INDIAN .............................................................

F2 Fusion Flavors • F2 combines the sensibilities of the Middle East with Asia, offering Indian flavored Kebabs, lamb and even goat dishes for a global tour of cuisines and cultures. Daily buffet. • Southlake fusionflavors.site $-$$ L D

Mughlai Fine Indian Cuisine • Courtly cuisine of Mughal royalty—familiar dishes like lamb roghan josh and chicken tikka masala served alongside more obscure dishes from authentic Indian street fare. • Southlake mughlaidfw.com $$ L D

ITALIAN / PIZZA ..............................................

Armend’s Restaurante • Laid-back, family friendly pizza place reminiscent of Naples. Plenty of hearty Northern Italian favorites with great prices and friendly, family-owned service. • Southlake armendspizza.com $ L D

Bosses • Brick oven pizza using the finest cheese and meats— and freshest veggies. They set out to make the best pizza in town and some say it’s “The Best Darn Pizza in Texas.” • Lake Worth, NRH, North Fort Worth bossespizza.com $ L D

Brio Tuscan Grille • Buzzing from the shaded outdoor patio to the courtyard bar. Upscale enough for the date-night crowd, but casual enough for locals wandering in from their shopping.

• Southlake Town Square brioitalian.com $-$$ L D R

Calabrese Ristorante and Bar • Authentic Italian fare with ingredients imported from Italy—modern and traditional Italian dishes to please every palate. Wine list as seductive as the atmosphere. • Southlake ilcalabrese.com $$ L D

Coal Vines • Pizza wine bar separating good pizza from great—a perfect crunch and just a speckling of char. This pie was made for good vino. Fortunately, they have plenty of that on hand as well! • Southlake coalvinespizza.com $ D R

Ferrari’s Italian Villa & Chop House • Beautiful banquet and private dining. Bountiful antipasti bar. The roasted entrées from the wood fired oven are standouts. Desserts prepared tableside. • Grapevine ferrarisrestaurant.com $$ L D

Fireside Pies • Swanky pizza served in a casual environment. Who knew my favorite veggie pie (Peta Pie) would come from the same place as my favorite meaty pie (Triple ‘Roni)? • Grapevine firesidepies.com $ L D

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria • Brooklyn’s iconic pizza has now arrived—crust is perfectly thin and crisp and cheese and toppings first-rate. Brooklyn charm here to go with some excellent pizza. • Grapevine grimaldispizzeria.com $ L D

i Fratelli Pizza • Distinctive thin-n-crispy pizza, handmade sauces, dressings, dessert—favs for 30 years. Delivery committed to exceeding expectations with their exemplary service and fast delivery. • Southlake, Keller, NFW ifratelli.net $-$$ L D

j Jonny’s Pizza • At Jonny's Pizza, they only use the freshest ingredients in their New York-style hand-tossed pizzas. All of their tasty Italian cuisine and other dishes are made in-house as well. • Fort Worth jonnyspizzany.com $ L D

Inzo Italian Kitchen • Old-world menu with a new-world accent. Using fresh ingredients and doing things the way Nonna did years ago. One taste is all it takes to be amazed. Buon appetito! • Roanoke inzoitalian.com $-$$ L D R

Loveria Caffe • Emilia-Romagna is Italy’s premier destination for food lovers—premium pastas, cured meats, cheeses, wines, meatballs, lasagna, eggplant parm perfected centuries before landing right here. • Colleyville loveriacaffe.com $$ L D

Napoli’s Italian Café & Creamery • Italian-America classics in cozy historic Grapevine Main Street setting. Linger in or drop by the creamery for freshly made gelato and Italian desserts. • Grapevine napolisgrapevine.com $-$ L D

Oliva Italian Eatery • Italian staples rendered with verve— spaghetti and meatballs, lobster ravioli, anticipated featured items. Expertly curated wines at a remarkable value. Popular wine dinners. • North Fort Worth olivaeatery.com $$ L D

Palio’s Pizza Cafe • Food tastes better, and they swear it’s better for you with fresh ingredients made-from-scratch. Pizzas with pesto, artichoke hearts, chicken and mushrooms. • Keller, Colleyville, Grapevine paliospizzacafe.com $ L D R

Stellini Trattoria • Shareable arancini (crisp risotto balls) or taglieri (meat & cheese board). Housemade pastas and pizzas. Steaks and chops with polenta, gnocchi and potatoes. Creative cocktails. • Grapevine stellinitrattoria.com $$ L D

Vinny’s Italian Restaurant • Good food, great people. Like being invited to your Italian uncle’s house for dinner—serving authentic New York style pizza and Italian classics. • Roanoke vinnysrest.com $ L D

Wise Guys Pizzeria • Exceeding expectations and providing Fresh food, family hospitality, hard work, and a hands on approach to pizzas, pastas, premium drafts—all made from scratch. • Roanoke & Grapevine wiseguystx.com $$ L D

Zeppole • Refined pasta dishes, seafood and soulful renditions of Italian specialties showcased in an open setting that feels like your favorite outdoor patio. • Located inside the Gaylord Texan Resort Atrium gaylordtexan.com $$$ D

LATIN AMERICAN .............................................

Boca 31 • Drawing from Mexico, Peru, Caribbean, Americas— elevating street food with creative flare—barbacoa tacos to pulled pork to guava and cream cheese empanadas, the menu is anything but standard. • Keller boca31.com/keller $ L D

Del Campo Empanadas • Empanadas with savories like chicken, ham, spinach, picanha steak. Dipped in chimichurri it’s a no-fuss meal or grab-and-go snack. Pick up sweet treats here also. • Fort Worth delcampoempanadas.com $ L D

Delucca Gaucho Pizza & Wine

• Slice-after-slice of gourmet pizza—garlic picanha, shrimp and fontina, Turkish lamb— along with cheese or pepperoni—brought to your table oven hot. All you can eat perfection! delucca.com $$ D

Gloria’s • Fine Latin cuisine that hints at humble mom and pop roots. Sleek design draws crowds as much for their pupusas and margaritas as for the weekend salsa dancing. • Colleyville and Southlake gloriasrestaurants.com $-$$ L D R

MEXICAN ...........................................................

• Elegant but unassuming with solid food and wine to back up the atmosphere. Italian classics headlined by popular pizzas, are Farina family recipes.

Farina’s Winery & Café

• Grapevine farinaswinery.com $-$$ L D

Baja Cantina • Coastal Mexican with seafood and amazing steaks. Fajitas are a fav, also fish tacos, spinach queso, frozen margaritas that make you swear you’re on vacation! • Watauga, NRH, Roanoke, Keller bajagrilldfw.com $-$$ L D R

Cristina’s Fine Mexican • Lively setting, unique menu with Tex-Mex favorites, as well as unique central Mexican dishes. Must-have margaritas. • NRH, Trophy Club, Southlake, Flower Mound and Lewisville cristinasmex.com $ L D R

Elote Mexican Kitchen • Little taqueria with style. Slow roasted meats, fresh ingredients, marvelous margaritas. Entire menu is gluten free (except flour tortillas). Plus soy cheese and tofu sour cream. • North Fort Worth elotemex.com $ B L D

Enchiladas Olé • Specializing in enchiladas filled with chicken, cheese, veggies or beef, then topped with Perez’s famed sauces from a classic ancho chili to a rich queso. Tamales and happy hours. • NRH enchiladasole.com $-$$ L D

Esparza’s Restaurante Mexicano • Possibly the coolest patio scene in the area. Feast on Mexican classics, but don’t miss out on their famous margaritas, fajitas or their authentic Mexican favorites. • Grapevine esparzastexas.com $ L D R

Fresco’s • Vibrant joint serving traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex using quality ingredients. Unmistakable flavor and freshness, and awesome margaritas. Fair prices. • Watauga frescosmexicanfood.com $ L D

Los Molcajetes • Start with warm tortilla chips and red or green salsa. Enjoy a margarita and a sizzling plate of fajitas, top it off with sopapillas, flan or fried ice cream—the ultimate Mexican comfort food! • Roanoke losmolcajetes.com $ L D

Manny’s Uptown Tex-Mex • Dragon-ritas, brisket tacos, signature queso, fajitas and enchiladas—perfect with a Manny’s Taxi. Weekend breakfast is a fav, happy hours and catering.• Southlake mannysuptowntexmex.com $$ B L D

Martha’s Mexican Cocina • Reliable Tex-Mex in a relaxed, setting with a great patio. Try brisket tacos and pollo poblano. Vegetarian options with daily specials and happy hour. • Keller marthasmexicancocina.com $ L D R

Mesa • Elevated coastal cuisine in a bright, elegant restaurant to match its vibrant, upscale menu. A magic touch with seafood, including lobster enchiladas, Mexican gumbo and chipotle shrimp. • Grapevine mesagrapevine.com $$-$$ D R

Mesero • Beyond Tex Mex, but lives up to its promise of Mexican Spirit American Life. One taste of the iconic Queso Mesero and brisket tacos will keep you coming back... don’t skip their amazing drinks! • Southlake mesero.net $$-$$ L D

Mi Cocina • The original see-and-be-seen spot is still a crowd favorite. A sleek but festive interior draws locals for “modern” enchiladas and first-rate Tex-Mex. • Southlake and Alliance mcrowd.com $-$$ L D R

Mi Dia From Scratch • Traditional Mexico City recipes with modern Santa Fe and Tex Mex flavors. Experience a true fusion of the past and present. • Grapevine, Plano, Flower Mound midiafromscratch.com $-$$ L D

So-Cal Tacos • Former food truck is now a great taco joint with the same delicious food and laid back vibe. The truck, Woody, paved the way for fresh tacos, delicious margarita, and ice cold beer. • Grapevine eatsocaltacos.com $ L D

j Zafiros Mexican Grill y Cantina • Finest expressions of scratch-kitchen ingredients, championing modern cuisine and seasonality to create dishes that reflect the bright, fresh flavors of Mexican cooking. • Colleyville zafirostx.com $-$$ L D

SEAFOOD .........................................................

Big Fish Seafood • Fresh seafood, including lots of Cajun options, plus great drink specials and frequent live music in a rustic and relaxed setting. Known for treating all guests like family. • Grapevine bigfishgrapevine.com $-$$ L D

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen • From warm Gulf waters, the icy Alaskan coast, the mighty Atlantic and Pacific, they go to any depth to bring you the finest seafood available—all year long. • Grapevine pappadeaux.com $$-$$$ L D

Rockfish • Local favorites like the shrimp basket, fish tacos, wild copper river alaskan salmon, rock-a-rita margarita, schooners, and Mexican shrimp martinis. Great seafood—not a lot of clams. • Southlake rockfish.com $-$$ L D

Shuck Me • Seafood spot with bountiful fried baskets, peeland-eat shrimp, crawfish, oysters, po-boys, gumbo. Big portions. Plenty to choose from—perfect seafood fix without breaking the bank. • Southlake and Alliance shuckme.net $-$$ L D

The Blu Crab Seafood House and Bar • Inspired by travel and culture—offers vast menu of culinary delights using the freshest ingredients. Come in to and celebrate your senses! • Colleyville blucrabseafoodhouse.com $$-$$$ L D

Truluck’s Seafood, Steak & Crab House • Iconic for stone crab claws—beloved for freshness! Chic dining room hosts sophisticated dinners with inventive foodie twists served in the mix. • Southlake Town Square trulucks.com $$-$$$ L D

STEAKS

Bob’s Steak and Chop House • Bob’s is ranked as one of the top steakhouses in the country—and for good reason. The steaks are prime, the portions are big and the drinks are stiff. • Grapevine bobs-steakandchop.com $$$ L D

The Classic at Roanoke • Unlikely fine dining destination. Nicely focused menu serving grilled steaks and seafood. Worldclass food, casual atmosphere, family friendly environment. A true classic. • Roanoke theclassiccafe.com $-$$ L D R

Del Frisco’s Grille • Spend the day shopping the square before meeting for dinner and drinks. Luxurious dining room or patio. Local flavor—diverse menu has something for everyone. • Southlake delfriscosgrille.com $$-$$$ (Brunch) L D

Dino’s Steak & Claw House • Serving a variety of seafood, steak and poultry dishes in a vintage bank building along historic Main Street. This romantic spot also offers live piano music. • Grapevine dinossteakandclaw.net $$-$$$ D

Keller Chophouse • Signature dishes like fried calamari with tomato risotto, sides of truffle Parmesan fries, a roster of seafood, chicken and steaks (New York strip, bone-in ribeye, and filet mignon). • Keller kellerchophouse.com $$-$$$ D

Kirby’s Prime Steakhouse • Prime aged beef, the freshest seafood and uncomplicated sides. No wonder it’s a favorite for impressing out-of-towners—their kitchen rarely (if ever) gets it wrong. • Southlake kirbyssteakhouse.com $$-$$$ L D

Mac’s on Main • Southwestern, cajun and global influences. Steaks, signature prime rib and seafood. Cocktails, beer, 30+ single malt scotches, wine list. Locally owned and operated, oneof-a-kind. • Grapevine macsteak.com $$ (Brunch) L D

Old Hickory Steakhouse • Savor premium Black Angus Beef seared to perfection, sample artisanal cheeses from around the world, indulge in the Texas inspired wine cellar. Inside Gaylord Texan gaylordtexan.com $$-$$$ D

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille • Vibrant twist on traditional steakhouse fare with unexpected specialties. Bar 79 offers handcrafted bites, fine wine, cocktails, beer, live music and patio seating. • Grapevine perryssteakhouse.com $$-$$$ D

Bonefish Grill

• A menu full of fresh flavors of the season and innovative dishes—specializing in seasonal fresh fish. Taste today’s freshest catch and try something new on each visit. • Southlake bonefishgrill.com $$-$$$ L (sat-sun) D (daily)

The Crab Station • Promises the best seafood in a family oriented experience. Have fun cracking and peeling with your hands—getting messy while you’re at it! Entrees, wings, kettles, shareables, peel-n-eat • NFW crab-station.com $-$$ L D

Fish City Grill • Menu of crawfish, Gulf and east coast oysters, and other fresh seafood selections. Favs like fish tacos, Gulf shrimp, renowned oyster nachos. Chalkboard specials are a great deal. • Southlake fishcitygrill.com $-$$ L D R

j Sweetie Pies Ribeyes • Sweetie Pies steaks are cooked “Old Style” meaning the steak is fresh-cut, seasoned and seared at 550 degrees—locking in natural juices! Big menu goes well beyond steaks or burgers. • NRH sweetiepiesribeyes.com $-$$ L D

Winewood • American fare with modern flair: Waldorf salads, Dagwood club, Niman Ranch pork chops and chicken Cordon Bleu. Ideal for family meals, business lunches or celebrations. • Grapevine thewinewood.com $$ L D

Submit your favorite dining spots for consideration for a Where Locals Go Review and to be listed here in our Top Tables section. Please submit the restaurant name and location to us so we can check it out at: societylifemag@verizon.net. Bon appetit!

We are huge BBQ snobs and I’m proud to say: my dad went absolutely feral over these ribs. His favorite BBQ item is far and away ribs, so I was quite nervous to try my hand at ribs in his presence and after a few bites of these glorious Maple Brown Sugar Ribs, he empathetically stated that I have to put this recipe on The Rose Table “immediately.” So here we are! Trust me when I say: these ribs are incredible. I’m Texan after all. I know great ribs! You’ll want about 3.5 hours for these ribs. I cooked them low and slow in the oven for two hours with mustard and an awesome Texas BBQ rub, then I added butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup and wrapped them up snug for another hour in the oven before throwing them on the grill with BBQ sauce to finish. The result was absolutely divine. We were swooning! You need the internal temp to be over 195 degrees because that’s when the meat is super tender. Shoot for a final temp of about 200. I pulled the ribs from the oven at 187 and finished them on the grill and they truly could not have been any better.

INGREDIENTS FOR A SINGLE RACK OF RIBS: (of course it’s easy to double, triple, or quadruple)

1 rack natural pork ribs (2 pounds)

1/2 Tbsp yellow mustard

Paprika-based BBQ rub

2 spoonfuls brown sugar

2 Tbsp maple syrup

1/3 cup smokey BBQ sauce (I used Stubb’s)

(1) Preheat oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the membrane on the back of the ribs by sliding your knife under it and peeling it back (or ask your butcher to do this!)

(2) Rub mustard directly onto the meat side of the ribs. Set the ribs on a baking sheet or in a 9×13″ dish. Generously season the meat-side of the ribs with your favorite BBQ rub, totally covering it. See the photos for reference. Loosely cover the pan with foil. Bake at 275 for two hours.

(3) Grab a new sheet of aluminum foil and put three pats of butter, a spoonful of brown sugar, and some maple syrup directly on the foil. Pull the ribs out of the oven and set meat-side down on the maple brown sugar mixture. Add a bit more butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup to the underside of the ribs.

(4) Cover tightly with foil (be careful they are hot!) and bake at 275 for another 45-60 minutes. Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer. They should be at about 185-190 at this point.

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(5) Preheat a gas or charcoal grill. Remove ribs from oven, remove from foil pack, then toss ribs meat-side down on direct heat with lid closed for about 5 minutes.

........................................................................................................

(6) Flip and liberally slather your favorite smokey mesquite BBQ sauce on top. Close lid and grill for another 10-15 minutes or until instant read thermometer shows a temperature of about 200 degrees. When you pick up one end of the ribs, it should have enough bend that the other half of the ribs stay on the grill.

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(7) Let rest for five minutes, then slice between the bones and enjoy!

MAPLE

BROWN SUGAR Ribs

SL WhereLocalsGo

PHOTOS BY LORRAINE HAAN-STEWART REVIEW BY JENNIFER SLOAN

When my family first moved to Texas many moons ago, it was Colleyville that we first called home. It was so many moons ago, in fact, that the now Whole Foods shopping center was anchored with a K-Mart at one end and a JewelOsco at the other. I’ve seen many things come and go in Colleyville throughout my life, but I’ve also seen a few things that stuck. Colleyville’s most recent restaurant addition Zafiros Mexican Grill y Cantina is one I see having that staying power. The décor and ambiance of this transformed medical office (which opened early this year) rivals any elevated Mexican restaurant in our downtowns. Yet the staff—from hostess to server and chef to management— gives casual “we’ve known you our whole lives” vibes. You can tell owner Joe Murphy, a Colleyville resident and veteran of the hospitality industry, has put a lot of love into his first venture— and that’s before you’ve even had your first bite of food.

At Zafiros, they source the finest scratch-kitchen ingredients to create

dishes that reflect the bright, fresh flavors of traditional Mexican cooking. Their recipes feature the freshest locally sourced vegetables available, fresh meats butchered in house daily and fresh fish hand selected by their chefs. Zafiros house-made, home-grown attitude carries over to their cocktail menu, where you will find a variety of unique and refreshing margarita flavors, including guava, watermelon basil and jalapeño cucumber. I find the bright flavor of the mango margarita is a perfect complement to their salsa, which is served warm.

Zafiros appetizer selection is pretty much what you expect from a Mexican establishment in Texas, but make no mistake: this not Tex Mex. Instead these are modern takes on traditional Mexico fare. The Guacamole Fresco ($11) is decadent. You’ve never had guacamole presented so beautifully, with a well of olive oil in the middle. It’s accompanied with a sprinkle of queso fresco, artfully placed edible flowers and crisp radish shavings. If you’re ready

to dive into something a little spicier, try Carmen’s Tinga Tostadas ($15) with slow cooked chipotle chicken tinga atop a thin layer of refried beans, queso fresco, savoy cabbage, sour cream and avocado. It’ll set your taste buds ablaze, but you’ll keep coming back for more.

Where I think Zafiros really shines is their seafood dishes—and this is coming from a part-time Florida resident. If you’re going for that classic tacomargarita-patio experience, Tacos del Mar ($24) will have you feeling like you are on a resort in Tulum. Blackened fish of the day is topped with savoy cabbage, fried fresno pepper, grilled corn and guajillo salsa with a drizzle of serrano mayo served on flour tortillas. It’s three to an order and you won’t want to share.

My not to be missed dish at Zafiros is the Tequila Lime Pescado ($34). It’s a generous seven ounce Red Snapper filet encrusted with crushed plantain crisps, pan seared and topped with a tequila lime butter sauce, with papas de madre (a cheesy mashed potato with a sprinkle of peppers) and roasted vegetables. It’s one of those good-sized portions where you know about half-way through, you should stop, but you just can’t. The crunch of the plantain crisps is highly addictive. If you can make it to dessert, the Tres Leches ($11) is a local fave, but I’ve not had the pleasure of trying it as it was sold out on both of my visits. I can’t complain too much though

because the Chocolate Cake ($11) is the stuff a chocolate lover’s dreams are made of. It’s layers of rich chocolate cake and chocolate custard dotted with fresh chocolate sauce and caramel and served with strawberry ice cream. They also have a vanilla ice cream that is second to none and if you’re really treating yourself, like I usually am, get both.

In Mexico, amazing tortillas are the essence of every household kitchen. That’s why at Zafiros, they grind the corn for their corn tortillas in house using only the best heirloom varieties. Murphy and the entire Zafiros team take pride in their attention to details like these that create a unique modern Mexican dining experience. From the craveable cuisine to their hand-crafted cocktails, they invite you to relax, enjoy great food, great drink, and, of course, great company. Bienvenidos!