Southlake Style October 23

FOLLOW YOUR DREAM HOME, THIS FALL.

PUBLISHER

Mike Tesoriero

Mike@SouthlakeStyle.com

SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR

Nicole Tesoriero

Nicole@SouthlakeStyle.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

David Dunn

David@SouthlakeStyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Cassidy Reich

Cassidy@SouthlakeStyle.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Bruce Sons

ADVERTISING SERVICES MANAGER

Andrea Summers

Andrea@SouthlakeStyle.com

SALES DEVELOPMENT REPRESENTATIVES

Olivia Harris

Olivia@SouthlakeStyle.com

Landry Smiley

Landry@SouthlakeStyle.com

OFFICE COORDINATOR

Kelly Rose

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Matti Pennington

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Aye Creator

Mike Lewis Photography

BluDoor Studios

Emilee Prado

open books, open minds

Growing up, my favorite author was Michael Crichton. More specifically, “Jurassic Park” was the first book I read as a young adult. No test, no report — just a book purely for my own enjoyment.

Little did I know his fact-based style of science fiction would help form the curiosity leading to my collegiate studies in genetics. Resurrecting dinosaurs from fossilized DNA has yet to come to fruition, but the way that library book opened my mind and future to life sciences was priceless in more ways than one.

After college, I was again able to give more of myself to leisure reading. To spark my early career, I chose authors like Seth Godin, Stephen Covey and Malcolm Gladwell. And to make the most of those early paychecks, Suze Orman and Robert Kiyosaki opened my mind to the possibilities in the worlds of finance and entrepreneurship.

As a publisher for nearly two decades, I often have conversations with those who are surprised by the continued validity of print publications in the wake of digital media. Regardless of the format, great ideas spread to form their own communities.

Our team is proud to deliver another installment of community reading as we feature Talking Animals Books in Grapevine. Together, the bookstore’s founders Katy Lemieux and Valerie Walizadeh aim to strengthen our community through a shared love of the written word. Later this month, we hope you’ll join us as they lead a collective conversation on the inspiration of books at our annual Women’s Luncheon.

Yours in Southlake Style,

Mike Tesoriero | Publisher Mike@SouthlakeStyle.com

President & CEO

Keith Conlon and Allie Beth Allman

Photo by Emilee Prado

7TH ANNUAL WOMEN’S LUNCHEON SOUTHLAKE HILTON

OCT. 20

Presented by Great Plains Bank, this year's luncheon features Katy Lemieux and Valerie Walizadeh, the founders of Talking Animals

Books in Grapevine. The dynamic duo behind North Texas’ one-andonly independent bookstore, Katy and Valerie will lead a conversation entitled “Getting On The Same Page” designed to share lessons learned from their quest to strengthen the community through the power of books. Tickets are $100 each, and a portion of the event’s ticket sales will benefit the Me Squared Cancer Foundation.

10 Things To Do At Southlake Oktoberfest

Participate in the kickoff stein-hoisting competition.

Listen to live performances by Brave Combo and Devin Leigh.

Take your kids to play in the fun zone.

Create some novel arts and crafts from nearby booths.

Taste authentic German cuisine from local vendors.

Grab a drink at the bier garten.

Play to win at the Ultimate Super Smash Bros. tournament.

Root for your favorite underdog at the weiner dog races.

Dress up in your best lederhosen for the costume contest.

Watch Bavarian dancers show you how it’s done.

MODEL FOODIE

A 10-pound Feedstore BBQ challenge went viral with over 1.5 million views on YouTube.

FEELING BLUE

Southlake gets in the mood to recycle with a fresh new set of bins.

UNOBSTRUCTED VIEW

American Airlines Center unveiled its new $10M Jerry-worthy video board.

Postino Wine Cafe adds another people-watching perch to Main Street.

PATIO ROW

OCTOBER Caribbean Cruisin' The Tang family sets out to sea in style.

travel with STYLE

We'd like to go with you on your next adventure. Take along your copy of Southlake Style, and snap a photo. Share the image with us, and you might see yourself in our next edition! Be sure to include names of those pictured and your destination.

LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY

Based on the “New York Times” bestselling novel, this period piece shows a talented female chemist transform into a vibrant cooking show personality. Brie Larson takes a break from saving the universe as Captain Marvel to give a few science lessons from the kitchen.

On Apple TV+

October 13

PRISCILLA

Sofia Coppola shares Priscilla Presley’s side of the story in this adaptation of her 1985 memoir “Elvis And Me.” Move over, Austin Butler — Jacob Elordi takes over as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll after he finished playing Nate in “Euphoria.”

In Theaters

October 27

TAYLOR SWIFT: THE ERAS TOUR

Swifties can “Shake It Off” if they missed her performance earlier this year. They’ll be living their “Wildest Dreams” between her new concert film and the re-release of “1989.”

Photo by Musicharts

In Theaters

October 13

KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON

Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert DeNiro and Martin Scorsese team up to tell the true story of a murder conspiracy in 1900s Osage County.

ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE

Over a decade after finishing his time in “House,” Hugh Laurie stars in this World War II drama based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name. Photo by Atsushi Nishijima

In Theaters

October 6

On Netflix

November 2

Bound By Books

BY DAVID DUNN

WITH PHOTOS BY EMILEE PRADO

There are over 300 bookstores in Texas, all of which carry their own stories filled with colorful characters, new worlds and amazing adventures that capture our minds and hearts. While most of them are owned by major chains like Barnes & Noble and even Amazon, one local shop is bringing the community together by building a curated reading experience for families all around the area.

Talking Animals Books is Grapevine’s first and only independent bookstore that curates a specific collection of books for children, adults and families alike. While founders Katy Lemieux and Valerie Walizadeh have a deep-rooted passion for literature, neither of them imagined running a bookstore together a year ago. But thanks to a supportive community of enthusiastic readers and authors, they brought their vision to life and made a reading destination as unique and special as the many books they carry.

READING PARTNERS

While she doesn’t come from a writing background like Katy does, Valerie Walizadeh knows what it means to be part of the community. As a mother with two kids in Grapevine-Colleyville ISD, Valerie regularly worked as a substitute teacher for the district and was familiar with the Lemieux family. After seeing the success of Katy’s campaign online, she reached out wondering if she might be able to help her enterprising acquaintance.

“My daughter is 16 and driving now, and my son is 13, so I knew it was time to have a job again,” Valerie explains. “I knew I was sort of at a crossroads myself. I loved books and I loved bookstores, so this just kind of called to me.”

With a retail background in managing stores like Blockbuster and Starbucks, Valerie had relevant firsthand knowledge of how to lead a successful business. Her acumen was exactly what Katy needed to get her business off of the ground.

“I didn’t know I needed a partner, but then I talked to Will Evans, who owns Deep Vellum Publishing Co., and the first thing he said was ‘Get a partner. You cannot do this by yourself. There will be times when it’s 3:30 in the morning, the pipes burst and you’re the only one who can go,’” Katy says. “I didn’t realize it, but Valerie was exactly what I was missing — someone to push it forward and bring a little momentum to it.”

After their initial location didn’t pan out, the duo started searching for a new home for their bookstore. With the help of Darlene Freed, a commercial realtor who also serves on the city council, they were situated into a 122-year-old bank building behind Bermuda Gold and Silver in Historic Downtown Grapevine.

“Grapevine’s never really had a bookstore on Main Street,” Darlene says. “In just about every historical town you go into, they all have bookstores. It ended up being a perfect fit all around.”

TURNING THE PAGE

Since opening in February earlier this year, Katy and Valerie made the bookstore feel like their own. Stepping inside feels like stepping into a cozy library, with every wall filled with both classic and contemporary novels. An antique typewriter sits in the middle to remind visitors of how writing has evolved over the years, and historical photos line one of the walls to provide a peek into Grapevine’s past. Even the building itself is historically significant having been robbed by Bonnie and Clyde’s gang in 1932. An old bank teller window has also been repurposed into a discrete reading nook for small children.

“We are moms above all else, and every kid that comes in here is our kid,” Katy expresses. “If a kid can come in here, go into the reading nook, just look at the lights for 20 minutes and feel calm, that’s all I care about.”

Past the reading nook is a large community room where visitors can gather to read and socialize with a cof-

” We have a little something for everyone. That’s ultimately how we see our role — providing access.

— Katy Lemieux, Talking Animals Books Founder

fee in hand. Board games like chess and checkers are available in case readers want to take a break to play a quick friendly game, and tables can be moved aside for live readings and author signings.

“When I did a book signing at Talking Animals, it was clear that the store is the center of intellectual hipness in the area,” writer and naturalist Amy Martin says. “It’s a great place to start up stimulating conversations, and [Katy and Valerie] take great effort to make everyone feel welcome.”

But it isn’t just the reading area that makes families feel welcome — the children’s playroom on the second floor makes little ones feel just as relaxed with cushions, train sets and coloring books to fill out. Children’s author Keka Novales brought her own children to the store prior to one of her book signings, and she could see the positive impact it had on them.

“I experienced it both as a parent and author, and my children loved it,” Keka says. “It’s truly unique, nice and cozy, and it all ties together wonderfully. I think it’s the perfect bookstore for children.”

Constantly on the lookout for new finds, Katy and Valerie are always eager to highlight up-and-coming authors in their store. L.M. Berthiaume is a former Southlake resident and new author who can attest to their hospitality personally.

“I had the privilege of working with them when I was looking to host a book signing for my debut novel,” L.M. says. “They invited me without hesitation, actively promoted my event and treated me with utmost respect every step of the way. Their dedication to embracing and supporting authors and providing a platform for emerging literary voices is a testament to their commitment to fostering creativity and innovation within their community.”

ENTERING A NEW CHAPTER

From the layout and decor to its authors and book selections, Katy and Valerie are intentional about every aspect of the store. Even something as simple as book placement is a priority for them, positioning children’s books on lower shelves while moving teen and young adult novels higher up out of children’s reach. Small details like that help maintain the community aspect and ensure that everyone stays connected with what others are reading.

“We’re trying to give families a unique and authentic literary experience,” Katy says. “We have people coming in here looking for war books. Some people want cookbooks. Some people want faith-based literature. We have a little something for everyone. That’s ultimately how we see our role — providing access.”

That mission is actually reflected in Talking Animals’ namesake. Inspired by C.S. Lewis’ “Chronicles Of Narnia” series, Katy says the talking animals are significant because they are communicators — they pass along information, they protect the Pevensie children and help guide them through a strange and uncertain world. That’s the role she sees books serving too, and it’s also why she named her daughter “Lucy” after the youngest sibling.

“I love reading, and I love language,” Katy says. “It’s all part of this larger umbrella of a need to connect with each other.”

Their twist on a personalized reading experience is also why she values their status as an independent bookstore.

“To me, ‘independent’ means authentically building a human connection,” Katy says. “We cannot offer the speed or variety that Barnes & Noble and Amazon can, but we can provide a very curated experience for the people who live

Justice

here and identify with what their values are.”

If the past few months have been any indication, it’s that people are hungry for the unique hands-on literary treatment that only Talking Animals can provide. Valerie’s favorite moments are seeing how kids interact with the store, whether they’re reading in the nook, playing upstairs with their friends or listening in during storytime.

“Everyone who comes in here has always been happy, excited and super supportive,” Valerie says. “We haven’t had a single person come in and be unhappy that we’re here. We always hear from others that they want us to last, and they want us to be here forever. That’s super meaningful to us. We’re living the dream.”

And even though Katy’s ambitions have always been lofty, they don’t stop at checkout. She and Valerie hope to expand by adding a coffee shop and additional reading spaces for those who wander in. Until then, they remain committed to promoting literacy and connecting the community one page at a time.

“We don’t have an end,” Katy says. “We can go wherever we want with this. We want to be as big as people will allow us to be. We’re the pioneers of our own story.”

Hear from Katy and Valerie in person at our 2023 Women’s Luncheon on Oct. 20, presented by Great Plains Bank. Reserve your tickets today at 817Tix.com.

Tracey

1161 LA MIRADA CT SOUTHLAKE, 76092 | $7,850,000

+1.7%

+44%

UNWRAP THE CHRISTMAS MAGIC

Make Holiday Memories With ICE! And Dozens Of Festive Activities At The Gaylord Texan

Every year, the Gaylord Texan is decked out in festive decor, transforming into a magical winter wonderland. Most spectacularly of all is the 2 million pounds — or 1,000 tons — of colorful ice that gets expertly carved into holiday scenes for their signature attraction. This season, there’s a new green guest looking to take over the frosty fun!

Beginning on Nov. 10 and running through Dec. 31, ICE! at the Gaylord Texan features 10 scenes from Dr. Seuss’ iconic children’s book “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.” Displaying the likes of Max the dog, Cindy-Lou Who and of course the Grinch himself, ICE! includes 17,000 square feet of larger-than-life sculptures portraying Whoville, Mount Crumpit, the Grinch’s sleigh and more. Make your way through tunnels and arches before gliding down the two-story ice slides. While the kids have fun, adults can chill out with a drink at the exclusive VIP ice bar, On The Blocks.

The Grinchy fun doesn’t stop there. Take part in the Grinch’s Wonderful Awful Idea Scavenger Hunt to search for hidden clues throughout the resort that reveal Grinch’s mischievous plan to ruin the holidays, or feast, feast, feast with the Grinch himself at a festive character breakfast.

If you want to let it snow a little longer, an eightlane tubing hill is the perfect thrill for those who want to race to the bottom. The Snowball Build & Blast gives a tub of snow to those eager for a snowball fight, and a 6,000-square-foot ice skating rink is perfect to practice your yuletide glide. Dazzling acrobatics, feats of flexibility and high-flying stunts await at the spectacular Cirque: Spirit of Christmas, and thousands of dancing lights will synchronize to the sounds of the season at the Lone Star Atrium’s light show.

The Gaylord Texan stays alit with holiday cheer during the season thanks to a glowing 54-foot-tall Christmas tree, 15,000 ornaments, 20-foot-tall toy soldiers and over 2 million twinkling lights. And with a Christmas Tree Trail featuring floral displays and magical backdrops perfect for selfies, families will have no problem making holiday memories that will last a lifetime.

Book your holiday stay at ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com. Use promo code CELEBRATE for 50% off general admission ICE! tickets on select dates (restrictions apply).

“We look forward to welcoming families and visitors to enjoy our magical holiday experiences.”

— Chuck Pacioni, General Manager

Gaylord Texan Resort | 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine | 817.778.1000 | GaylordTexan.com

Leslie Cloin

SPOTLIGHT

SMILE WIDE

Charlie is proud to support Dragons Care p. 28

SPOTLIGHT community

SOUTHLAKE PHYSICIAN APPOINTED TO TEXAS PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT BOARD

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott recently appointed five doctors to the Texas Physician Assistant Board — and one of them is from Southlake. The founder and CEO of Premier Pain Centers, Rao Ali is a board-certified pain physician who specializes in epidurals, joint injections and implantation pumps. As a Texas Physician Assistant Board member, Rao will issue physician assistant licenses to qualified individuals to practice in the state of Texas. His term lasts until Feb. 1, 2025.

39 DRAGONS NAMED NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALISTS

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation recently named 16,000 semifinalists for the 69th annual program, and 39 of them are from Southlake Carroll. This year’s 39 finalists include Aishwarya Aggarwal, Taksheel Aileni, Sajjaad Azam, Andrew Balson, Umair Bhat, Michael Blumberg, Elizabeth Boyd, Krish Dalela, Elizabeth Dean, Raine Ducey, Hayden Echols, Sindhu Guntur, William Hao, Shayaan Jafri, Jonathan Jose, Sahasra Kandukuri, Bailey Koh, Joshua Landgraf, Fe Lau, Akshaya Meka, Evan Mitchell, Gautam Nalliah, Allison Nef, Spandan Patel, Yuki Pilon, Kate Ponzo, Arjun Rai, Nikhil Reddy, Dev Saray, Saarim Syed, Ketan Tamirisa, Jake Tessnow, Madeleine Tran, Ashlynn Tusneem, Aleeza Virani, Charissa Wang, Hudson Whitney, Brendan Wu and Ian Yu. Congratulations to these exceptional Dragon semifinalists! Photo by Dragon Media

EMILY’S SMILE BOXES RAISES $9,000

Founding Emily’s Smile Boxes in 2008, Emily Lites brings joy to pediatric patients across the metroplex by delivering boxes filled with toys and fun activities. During ESB's annual charity gala hosted by The Marq, Emily's nonprofit raised over $9,000 to produce 300 smile boxes for hospitals around the area. "A fundamental part of growing up is playing, and this is so challenging to do in a room with needles, IV lines, pumps and more," Emily says. "It means the world to me when I hear what a difference a smile box made in a child's treatment."

CHRIS TRIBBLE RETIRES AFTER SERVING SOUTHLAKE FOR 17 YEARS

Community services director Chris Tribble retired after a successful 17-year career with Southlake last month. Serving the city since 2006, Chris has been integral to the community services department, building out parks and recreation facilities, developing budgets and master plans and expanding the local landscape through properties such as Legends Hall and Champions Club. “He has cultivated a caring team where each member understands the critical role the department plays in ensuring a great quality of life for our residents,” city manager Shana Yelverton says. “Because of his work, Southlake residents have numerous opportunities for lifelong memories.”

SOUTHLAKE TOWN HALL OPENS FALL EXHIBIT

The city of Southlake is spotlighting Texas artist Jeremy Serna for its newest exhibit in Southlake Town Hall. A selftaught artist who works with pastels, acrylics and watercolors, Jeremy owns Painting With Friends in West Texas and was a featured artist in the past Art In The Square festival. The artist, whose work includes scenes of nature and cowboy life, won the Overall Artist Award in 2020 at the Stars of Texas Paint Off Competition. A reception was held on Sept. 10 for the exhibit, which is open now through Oct. 27.

MISS SOUTHLAKE AND OUTSTANDING TEEN 2023 ANNOUNCED

Annette Addo-Yobo and Sophia Haddad were crowned at the Miss Southlake-Westlake competition on Sept. 16. Annette received the title of Miss Southlake, earning a $1,200 scholarship and winning Overall Evening Gown and Overall Interview. Meanwhile, Sophia received the title of Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen, earning an $800 scholarship and winning Overall Interview and Overall Talent for her rendition of Jack Fina’s “Bumble Boogie.” These ladies will compete for the title of Miss Texas and Outstanding Teen during the upcoming competition in June next year.

SPOTLIGHT community

SUMMER SANTA DONATES TO OVER 700 FAMILIES

The Summer Santa project served more families than ever before, with new clothes and school supplies going toward over 700 families in 2023. With the help of over 400 volunteers, the nonprofit provided over 160 scholarships to area children in need, plus Camp-In-A-Boxes to 325 families whose children could participate in fun-filled enrichment activities. Summer Santa’s season ended with two back-to-school shopping days where 235 children each purchased $150-worth of new clothes.

DRAGON BAND PLACES FIRST AT U.S. BANDS DALLAS REGIONAL COMPETITION

The Southlake Carroll Dragon Band left quite the impression at the U.S. Bands Dallas Regional Competition in Crowley ISD earlier this month. Competing against 27 exceptional marching band programs from around the area, the Dragon Band placed first in the preliminary round with their show, “La Vie est Belle.” Not only that, but when they went on to compete in the finals round, they placed first out of the Top 11 bands with a final score of 87.8.

SPOTLIGHT community

NTX GIVING DAY 2023 RAISES $63 MILLION

North Texas Giving Day returned for its 15th annual 18-hour online event last month. Featuring 3,383 charity organizations in North Texas, 11 of this year’s beneficiaries were area nonprofits, including GRACE, the Southlake Foundation, North Texas Performing Arts, the Miracle League of Southlake and more. This year’s event raised $63.9 million through 97,132 donors, surpassing last year’s record of $62.6 million from 94,385 donors total. To see the total impact of this year’s campaign, visit NorthTexasGivingDay.org.

GRAPEFEST CROWNS PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINE TASTING WINNERS

Out of the 35 Texan wineries at GrapeFest last month, three local establishments took home the People’s Choice Wine Tasting Classic Awards. Thousands gathered for the 90-minute tasting session on Sept. 16-17, where Bull Lion Ranch Winery and Messina Hof in Grapevine and Silver Dollar Winery in Bedford placed amongst the top three across 10 categories, including reds, whites, blushes and roses. The local wineries earned gold in several red categories, as well as silver and bronze in a handful of white categories. You can see the full list of GrapeFest winners at GrapevineTexasUSA.com.

DSO CONCERT TRUCK ROLLING INTO SOUTHLAKE

A whole new kind of concert experience will be coming to Southlake later this month. A partnership between the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the Apex Arts League, the concert truck is a fully functioning mobile concert venue that delivers authentic symphonic experiences on the go. Complete with lights, a sound system and a piano, the 16-foot box truck will be driving into 200 E. Dove Road in Southlake on Oct. 29, with featured guests including classical musicians Nick Luby and Susan Zhang.

DRAGONS CARE CELEBRATES RIBBON CUTTING

For the past three years, Dragons Care has been supporting Southlake Carroll families going through times of crisis. Last month, the community came together to support Dragons Care in the next step of its nonprofit journey. On Sept. 12, over 100 people came to Dragons Care’s ribbon cutting at Rustin Pavilion, where there was live music, yard games, giveaways and Kona Ice trucks. Not only did members cut the ribbon and officially join the Southlake Chamber, but they were also presented with a congressional certificate recognizing their service to the Southlake community.

Photo by Morgan Brown

PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATIONS DONATE OVER $500,000 TO CISD

Since the beginning of the calendar year, Southlake’s Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs) have contributed over $547,000 in monetary and in-kind donations across all 11 CISD campuses. Last month alone, Durham Intermediate, Johnson, Rockenbaugh and Walnut Grove Elementary PTOs were recognized for donating up to $71,220 for staff furniture and decorations, curriculum supplies and technology. “Just about every [board] meeting, we talk about the amazing PTOs we have across our campuses here at Carroll ISD,” trustee Andrew Yeager says at the Sept. 18 board meeting. “We wouldn’t be able to do what we do with our budget without these great donations from PTOs.”

ORANGETHEORY RAISES OVER $55,000 FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Over 100 Orangetheory Fitness studios recently raised over $55,000 for Special Olympics, including in Southlake. During the summer, 95 Special Olympic athletes participated in exclusive 90-minute classes, where Orangetheory trainers led them through special routines and exercises. “We take immense pride in our renewed collaboration with Special Olympics,” chief operating officer Shane Adams says. “The presence of local athletes added an extra layer of significance to this event. It’s a powerful testament to the promotion of health, wellness and community inclusion.”

SPOTLIGHT business

GRAPEVINE DEALERSHIP TO RECEIVE EXPANSION

The Grapevine Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram facility is set to grow over the next year and a half. On Sept. 19, the Grapevine city council approved a request to add 575 square feet to the west end of the dealership. The expansion will lead to an additional 39 spaces on the lot, extra building space and increased height to the main entryway. The expansion is set to begin this month and is estimated to be completed by spring 2025.

BEST BRAINS OPENS IN SOUTHLAKE

Back in 2021, Dr. Alice Ward-Johnson opened her first Best Brains location in Keller to help students get back on track with their academics. Now, the learning center has opened a second location in Southlake to help even more children. Offering small group instruction for kids ages 3 to 14, Best Brains Learning Centers provides extra support to students outside of the classroom for those who need it most. “We were serving so many students from Southlake at our first location, I wanted to make our services easier for the students and their parents to access closer to home,” Dr. WardJohnson says. You can check out the new learning center at 260 Miron Dr., Suite 108.

RA FOODS NAMES NEW PRESIDENT

The Southlake-based company behind Wild About Sprouts, Wild About Bread and Mixmi Frozen Yogurt has a new executive leading the way. With an executive career spanning three decades, Barry Didato brings a wealth of experience serving as vice president for the plant-based food company, Eatwell Investment Group, as well as on the board of directors for the food nonprofit Big Green. As president of Ra Foods, Barry will be responsible for overseeing operations and spearheading strategic initiatives for the company at large.

WESTLAKE MARRIOTT HOTEL TO UNDERGO RENOVATIONS

The Marriott Westlake will be getting a makeover after getting acquired by two Dallas-based development companies. Located within Solana Plaza, the Marriott Westlake is a 294-room hotel that has exclusive amenities including a private lounge, a fine dining restaurant, a business center and approximately 15,000 square feet of meeting space. With much of the architecture dating back to the 1980s, owners NewcrestImage and Dabu Group say they will conduct a complete makeover for the hotel.

WEINBERGER’S DELI FEATURED IN YELP’S TOP 100 PLACES TO EAT IN TEXAS

Grapevine’s family-owned Chicago-style deli received statewide recognition in Yelp’s Top 100 Places To Eat In Texas last month. Appearing at No. 93 on the list, Weinberger’s was one of seven places recommended in Tarrant County alongside Coco Shrimp, Ober Here, Taste Community and Del Campo Empanadas in Fort Worth; Pastaza in Trophy Club and Koracha Thai in Bedford. With an endless assortment of sandwiches, gyros, sausages, cheesesteaks, cubanos and family recipes, it’s easy to see what the hype is all about. To try Weinberger’s Deli for yourself, visit 601 S. Main Street.

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TECOVAS

300 GRAND AVE. E., SOUTHLAKE 817.663.2931 | TECOVAS.COM

This Austin-based retailer’s cowboy boots were made for walking.

SPIRIT HALLOWEEN

2800 E. SOUTHLAKE BLVD. 855.704.2669

SPIRITHALLOWEEN.COM

The nation’s largest Halloween retailer is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

FLEXESERVE

415 S. KIMBALL AVE., SUITE 160 SOUTHLAKE 817.391.2320 | FLEXESERVE.COM

This hospitality business revolutionizes grab-and-go hot food.

LA PULGA MASTER BLENDER BREAKS DOWN THE SCIENCE BEHIND TEQUILA

There is an art and craftsmanship behind making tequila. As the head of spirits and master blender for the new La Pulga brand in Fort Worth, Ale Ochoa knows all of the details that go into their premium tequila. Working alongside other Fort Worth entrepreneurs including real estate developer Stephen Slaughter, Pequeño Mexico operator Andrew De La Torre and Taco Heads founder Sarah Castillo, Ale has the skills and support she needs to help make tequila that is truly special.

MANY PEOPLE DON’T REALIZE THAT… there’s a science behind spirit production. What plant you use, how it grows, how you process it, how you need to cook it to extract the sugars — even the yeast you use is going to change the flavors you impart in the final product.

LA PULGA EMPHASIZES… traditional agave made and distilled in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. My parents are from Mexico, so being able to work with a spirit that originated where my parents were born and raised is really special. As a firstgeneration Mexican-American, it gave me an opportunity to tap a little more into my history and heritage and get deeper in touch with my roots.

WE PRIMARILY OFFER… three types of tequila — Blanco, Reposado and Anejo. Blanco isn’t aged at all and has a crisp agave flavor that isn’t overly powerful. Reposado has a soft oak and vanilla flavor, and ours is aged for a minimum of seven months. Anejo has some bourbon notes and is aged in a barrel for 18 months. We don’t rush things to market. We know our product and we know our aging, so anything shorter than that doesn’t reach its full potential.

ONE LITTLE-KNOWN FACT ABOUT TEQUILA IS THAT… if you have less than 1% of syrups, concentrates, glycerin or coloring in your liquor, you don’t have to disclose it on the label. We pride ourselves on being an additive-free tequila and pulling all of our authentic flavors from the blue agave plant directly in Mexico.

I FIRST GOT INTO SPIRIT PRODUCTION THROUGH… college at Texas A&M. I had a professor who talked about his travels in Scotland, and he spoke about all of the differences between

Scotch, Irish whiskey and Kentucky bourbon. I didn’t know much about whiskey at the time beyond the fact that it’s grain, yeast and water in a barrel, but that got me started down a rabbit hole of how it’s made. That led me to food science and wanting to learn more about the process behind our favorite beverages.

I STARTED WORKING AS A TECHNICIAN AT… a sensory science kitchen and flavor chemistry lab and worked a lot with meat and coffee. A professor overheard that I wanted to work with whiskey, and he introduced me to his Ph.D. student Rob Arnold, who was the master distiller at TX Whiskey. I ended up doing my thesis project on how different types of corn could affect the flavor of whiskey. After I graduated, I became the whiskey scientist at TX Whiskey before joining La Pulga this past spring.

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN WHISKEY AND TEQUILA ARE… night and day. The plants and maturation are complete opposites. With whiskey, you want to emphasize the maturation to extract flavor and color, and that can take anywhere from four to five to 10-plus years. With tequila, you just want it to rest, and that happens in a matter of months. The core differences are the starting plant and amount of time it takes to age those spirits.

I’M A BIG BELIEVER THAT SPIRITS CAN… bring two strangers together. Smell and taste are strongly tied to memory, and I always wanted to make something that would contribute to people’s celebratory moments. It’s always easier to talk to the person next to you if you’re drinking the same drink.

shop in STYLE

PARTYING IN PINK

Embrace your colorful side

SHOP IN STYLE stuff you'll love

pretty in PINK

FRIGIDAIRE RETRO COMPACT REFRIGERATOR

Vintage styles just got way cooler.

Walmart | $125

DARIA TULLE DRESS

Stand out from the crowd with this showstopping slip-on.

Altar'd State | $90

THE COMFY

It’s time to cozy up in this wearable blanket.

The Comfy | $50

DISCO BALL PLANTERS

Let your green thumb “Freak Out!”

Filtrum Home | $50

REVO PARTY BARGE COOLER

A must-have for any Pink Out party!

REVO Coolers | $169

TASTY 16-PIECE COOKWARE SET

Cook in color with this all-purpose set.

Walmart | $59

The Crown Jewel Of Designer Bags

Alexander McQueen’s Jewelled Hobo Bag Will Put You On Display

It goes without saying that everything is prettier in pink. With Barbiecore taking over fashion markets, one might find it difficult to stand out, yet Alexander McQueen’s Psychedelic Pink Jewelled Hobo Bag is noticeably distinct and chic.

DETAILS

Dimensions: 4.7” H x 7.8” W x 3.1” D

Weight: 1 lb.

Price: $2,590

AlexanderMcQueen.com

Launched earlier this year as part of the women’s pre-collection, the Jewelled Hobo Bag is characterized by Alexander McQueen’s prominent skull motif – a symbol of mortality among the glamor and allure of the catwalk. A conjoined set of Swarovski-encrusted, silver-finished rings resembling brass knuckles line the opening of the bag, acting as a convenient and stylish hand grip. The bulky skull, diamond and floral rings are

not only a nod to the McQueen brand but also to popular streetwear accessorization that began on the runway.

Calfskin leather panels are cut and reassembled in a layered stitchwork pattern, creating a jewellike silhouette with sharp, asymmetrical designs and a sleek, rounded structure. Available in a mini size online and at Highland Park Village, the bag can be worn as a clutch, handbag or crossbody style with an attachable chain.

This intricate design demonstrates that a bag can be more than an accessory – it can be an art piece where worth is found in the details. The perfect multi-dimensional bag awaits you – after all, art deserves to be seen, so put on a show.

women in

JANICE SPOONER

Southlake Market President

Every client is different — that’s why their financial strategies should be catered to their specific needs. Janice Spooner, as a senior lender, has been helping commercial and consumer clients work toward their short-term and long-term goals for 11 years in Southlake and the past 35 years in North Texas. Taking a holistic approach to personalized banking, Janice has won several awards for her dedication and service, including the 2022 Keller Chamber Business Woman of the Year, the Independent Bankers Association of Texas’ Rising Star Award and the Greater Metro West Association of Realtors Affiliate of the Year. With firsthand knowledge of wealth-building strategies and a passion for sharing them with others, Janice is driven to help her clients reach their potential and succeed at the highest level.

GPBankTX.com

”

I will always share my passion and knowledge to help our clients succeed at the highest level.

KARA L. CARRERAS Criminal Defense Attorney

Everyone loves a true crime story, but Kara Carreras gets to live it every day. Board-certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Kara is a Fort Worth-based attorney with over two decades of criminal law experience. As a former crime lab analyst and prosecutor, Kara sees both sides of every case and cuts through to get to the core of her legal arguments. A fierce but loyal advocate, Kara is compassionate to her clients’ vulnerable situations and can identify the right defense strategy for any case. Despite her busy schedule, Kara makes time to volunteer on the Metroport Teen Court Board and Southlake’s Crime Control Board. Kara Carreras considers her clients family and will tirelessly defend them with everything she has.

FortWorthDefense.com

” I always fight for the best results.

SUSAN SEMMELMANN Interior Designer

Susan Semmelmann believes the spirit of living is in the giving — that’s why she’s committed to designing your home in the way that best speaks to you. Working in the design business for more than 24 years, Susan knows how to make your home pop with its own unique, beautiful and eyecatching appeal. From the flooring and the countertops to the cabinetry and hardware, Susan listens and works with her clients to transform their spaces with a fresh, revitalized aesthetic. With custom-made bedding, drapery and floral options that can be complemented with any of her furnishings, fabrics and accessories, Susan orchestrates every detail of a project she works on. The result is always a home that is as cohesive as it is stunning.

SemmelmannInteriors.com

” Home is a sanctuary. Family is everything. Faith is the foundation. Giving is the response.

MARIAH BURNELL, D.O. Family Medicine Doctor

Dr. Mariah Burnell enjoys caring for entire families, from infants to the elderly. As a board-certified family medicine doctor, she focuses on fostering long-term relationships with families through every stage of life. Since joining Methodist Family Health Center in Southlake in 2022, she looks forward to raising her own family in this thriving area too. Dr. Burnell offers a range of primary care services, from prevention to sick care to managing chronic conditions. She’s also pursuing board certification in obesity medicine to give her patients even more tools for a healthier life. Dr. Burnell says patients are often surprised by how much time she spends getting to know them outside of their medical history, but she understands that caring for them as a whole person is what family medicine is all about.

MethodistHealthSystem.org

“I want to be an informative resource, giving patients options and working as a team to plan the next step.”

RANDY WHITE REAL ESTATE SERVICES Realtors

For over 40 years, Randy White Real Estate Services has been helping clients through every step of the real estate journey with precision and care. As far as trusted real estate professionals go, its women agents bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record of successful transactions. Intimately familiar with the local market, these ladies empower their clients with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions and maintain a competitive edge,

regardless of whether they’re buying or selling. Customer satisfaction is their top priority, and their relational approach ensures their clients feel valued and supported throughout the process. These dedicated and driven professionals aren’t just in the business of real estate — they’re in the business of building relationships and making the community a better place to live.

RandyWhite.com

”

(L-R) Erin Lind, Jenna Zagala, Lisa Girard, Sheila Cross and Tanya Nelson

We believe in the power of personal connections.

MIMI TRAN

Mimi Tran understands that community is how we build relationships — that’s why community is at the heart of everything she does. Living in the Southlake area for over 21 years, Mimi has always put service before self by volunteering with the Carroll Education Foundation, the Community Enrichment Center, GRACE and the Southlake Chamber of Commerce. As the Southlake market president for Texas Regional Bank, Mimi understands the complexity of private banking and loves working with families to help them realize their financial dreams. And as the founder of the Me Squared Cancer Foundation, Mimi helps financially support cancer patients in the area, with the foundation donating over $1 million in four years. Mimi knows that people are the best investment you can make, and her clients feel the same way when they invest in her.

TRB.Bank

”

I can do things you cannot, you do things I cannot. Together, we can do great things.

Southlake Market President

INOUS E. POLLARD, JAMIE TAYLOR & KENA

PATTERSON

Renovators & Remodelers

A full-service home remodeling and renovation company, Lonestar Design Build has been a trusted and reliable partner with DFW homeowners for over 15 years. Offering a wide range of services from kitchen and bathroom remodels to wholehouse renovations, Lonestar Design Build is committed to quality and attention to detail, and the women behind it help keep it that way. Led by director

of accounting and projects Inous Pollard, senior designer Jamie Taylor and project manager Kena Patterson, these women help maintain personal relationships with the clients, build budgets, produce project plans and keep construction on schedule. When a project needs to be done, you can trust Inous, Jamie, Kena and the Lonestar Design Build team to be there.

LonestarDesignBuild.com

” Design — where something practical meets something magical.

THE AESTHETICS SOCIETY

Who says you can’t have it all?

At The Aesthetics Society, its experienced staff blends art with science to offer personalized beauty and wellness treatments through their exceptional concierge services. Its talented and committed team has over four decades combined of skills and knowledge to stay on the cutting edge of medical aesthetics, whether it involves its age-defying injectables or relaxing facial treatments. The women behind The Aesthetics Society understand that when you look and feel your best, anyone can move mountains. The Aesthetics Society aims to pamper and empower women to be their strongest, most beautiful selves in a warm and welcoming environment that reminds everyone that they are worth it.

TheAestheticsSociety.com

Behind every successful woman is a tribe of successful women who have her back.

(L-R) Zarah Manzi, Stacy Kirkpatrick, Bailee Guilford, Molly Harris, Alecia Baker, Michelle Robinson, Amanda Gomez and Cassandra Renteria

MARIA DIAZ SIERRA (DUQUE) Real Estate Agent

Raised in a family of architects, Maria was empowered with a deep knowledge of real estate and development while growing up. By the time she moved to the DFW Metroplex, she had already worked as a real estate agent for over a decade. Now she brings her wealth of experience to the area and helps deliver the best results possible for her clients. With her happy, positive attitude nicely complementing her sharp customer service and negotiating skills, Maria is a natural at understanding her client’s unique needs and going after them with great focus, dedication and tenacity. No matter what type of home you’re searching for, you can trust her to take you in the right direction.

MariaSellsHomes.KW.com

I offer a personal and professional approach to buying or selling your home.

ANDERSON

Sustainability, repurposing and recycling — all of this is at the

forefront of TBK Environmental.

Founded in 2007 by Dragon mom Susan Anderson, TBK Environmental is a boutique-style consulting firm that helps manage your waste and environmental compliance. Using environmental site assessments, process hazard analysis and regulatory entity resources, TBK Environmental’s first inclination is to help a company find alternate ways to use products and create less waste. As a result, more than 50% of their projects last year were recycled or repurposed for another use. As the only environmental firm that offers consulting specifically for EPA, TCEQ, OSHA reporting and waste removal, TBK Environmental is committed to creating a better work environment — literally.

TBKEnvironmental.com

SUSAN

Environmental Consultant

”

The opportunity to make a difference highlights my passion to care for our future.

D-FLAWLESS CONCIERGE JEWELERS Jewelers

Passionate and dedicated to providing not only the finest pieces of jewelry but also a superb customer experience, Darla Stapleton operates D-Flawless Concierge Jewelers with her entire heart. With 30 years of experience in the jewelry industry, Darla creates a personalized shopping experience with timeless fine jewelry to serve your specific needs. With D-Flawless, you can schedule a one-on-one appointment to go through its extensive showcase of

fine jewelry or customize your own. Due to Darla’s hard work, determination, personal relationships with her clientele and support from her staff members Amy Shipps, Dena Oliver, Diana Visosky and Rachel Smith, D-Flawless continues to thrive and leave its own mark in the community. Darla and her team ensure that anyone who visits her store will leave with a smile and beautiful pieces of jewelry.

DFlawlessJewelers.com

(L-R) Amy Shipps, Darla Stapleton, Dena Oliver, Diana Visosky and Rachel Smith

”

If you don’t know jewelry, know the jeweler.

GEMMA BRADY Realtor

An active member of the DFW community for over 15 years, Gemma Brady found success as the general manager for Del Frisco’s Grille in Southlake before going on to manage private country clubs throughout the metroplex. She now brings her expertise to the real estate world. Teaming up with her wonderful in-laws, Liz and Wes with the Elizabeth Sackrule Group, Gemma has access to over 30 years of knowledge to ensure she supports your family the way they deserve. Whether she’s helping others sell their house or find their forever home, Gemma prides herself on always being accessible, willing to listen and dedicated to her clients’ goals. With a passion for creating and enhancing a transformational milestone in her clients’ lives, Gemma distinguishes herself from the rest of the industry with a keen eye and unrivaled commitment to excellence. Call Gemma at 214.517.0898 today!

ElizabethSackruleGroup.Ebby.com

Let my devotion to you enrich your next home journey.

DIANA DRISCOLL, O.D. Optometrist And Clinical Director

Over 8 million people are affected by Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) every year. After suffering from the condition herself for over a decade, Dr. Diana Driscoll, Optometrist, turned her personal struggles into a mission to help others with the same condition. Providing groundbreaking care for the past eight years, POTS Care is the only clinic dedicated to treating the underlying medical problems causing POTS — not just the symptoms. Empathy, love and compassion drive their patient-centric care, and Dr. Driscoll and her team are committed to finding answers no matter how complex cases may be. POTS Care offers hope where others say there is none and ensures that recovery is possible for every POTS patient.

POTSCare.com

”

Our joy comes from seeing patients regain hope and light in their lives.

(L-R) Cheyenne Jones, Marissa Baldasti, Dr. Diana Driscoll, Jana Mori, Kristin Gilmore, and Kerstin Dougherty

home STYLE

For The Family

From the comfort of the living room couch to the kitchen appliances we rely on, home is supposed to work for everyone in the family — and that’s certainly the case at 1702 Carlyle Court in Westlake. With five bedrooms and 8,265 square feet, this $5,595,000 home is perfect for large families looking to spread out and claim their space. Whether it’s the fullyequipped game room, custom walk-in closet or five-car garage, everyone in the family will find something to fall in love with here.

DOWN TO BUSINESS

As more people find themselves working from home, it’s important to set yourself up for success in a professional environment conducive to productivity and virtual meetings. Luckily, this home’s office is fit for both with an updated aesthetic in blue tones and rich wood. French windows let in great light that dims with ease thanks to motorized shades. The custom built-in cabinetry piques the interest of your inner child as it opens up to a secret passageway to a private study where you can focus or disconnect depending on what the day calls for.

A SPLASH OF FUN

While cooler weather is beginning to seep in, there are still opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Step outside the motorized patio screen doors into the beautiful backyard, which has a pool equipped with heating and cooling features to maintain an ideal temperature year-round, while the adjacent hot tub always turns things up a notch. The semisecluded firepit is a great spot to get cozy and socialize during a brisk night, and the upstairs balcony provides a beautiful view of the backyard scene overall.

FAMILY TIME

There’s no better place to cherish those moments when everyone comes together than in the game room. With a built-in bar, Scotsman ice maker and a double-drawer refrigerator, families can share refreshments while enjoying tabletop games such as billiards, shuffleboard, table soccer and darts. But if you’re looking to get away from a competitive environment, the reading room can be the perfect spot to cozy up and enjoy a good book together.

TASTING NOTES

Savor the sights at Postino Wine Cafe

local FLAVOR

Premium Pour Postino Wine Cafe Comes To Southlake Town Square

Postino Wine Cafe

1440 Main St.

Southlake

817.522.1220

PostinoWineCafe.com

Drinking wine at lunch is not a crime, especially when it’s at Postino Wine Cafe. With 25 restaurants in five states, this booming franchise is quickly becoming everyone’s favorite hip new place to grab a sip after work or on the weekends. Rejoice as the latest wine cafe has officially arrived in Southlake Town Square, creating a veritable “patio row” along Main Street.

Born in a historic 1940s-era Arizona post office in 2001, Postino Wine Cafe is an elegant hub where people can connect through their shared love of fine food and wine. Opening its newest cafe inside the former Ann Taylor store, founder Lauren Bailey says Southlake was perfect for their DFW expansion due to its dynamic dining community.

“We love connecting with foodie-centric communities that embrace the spirit of togetherness,” Lauren says. “Southlake’s sense of community deeply resonated with us and our core values.”

With an upscale industrial vibe, Postino utilizes vintage decor, mid-century furniture and commissioned pieces from local artists to highlight Southlake’s history and culture. Custom walnut walls further lend to the restaurant’s rustic influences, while the exterior garage doors roll up to reveal the umbrella-lined patio, where sippers can people-watch shoppers roaming around James Avery, Vera Bradley and J. McLaughlin across the street. With a row of patio restaurants that include Moxies, Milwaukee Joe’s and Starbucks, Postino feels right at home.

There are plenty of offerings by the glass and bottle at this eclectic and vibrant cafe. With a seasonal menu carefully curated by advanced sommelier Brent Karlicek, Postino boasts 40-plus varietals from around the globe and 30-plus beers from local and domestic breweries. Indulge in sparkling rosés from Spain, crisp pinots from Italy or strong cabernets from France and Chile. No matter which tastes you prefer, Postino’s wine and beverage program is designed to cater to your specific palette.

Postino is much more than a wine bar. In addition to its vast array of beverages, Postino also features a robust menu that satiates all kinds of appetites. For lighter fare, its snack menu includes small bites such as mozzarella and tomatoes, sweet potato wedges and smoked salmon crostini, while its variety of beef, chicken and shrimp skewers provide extra meaty flair. Its paninis are filled with either Tuscan tuna, roasted chicken or prosciutto di parma and are grilled with your choice of either ciabatta or focaccia bread.

But when it comes to serving large groups, there’s no better option than Postino’s bruschetta and charcuterie boards. Imported directly from Italy, there are more than 12 mouth-watering bruschetta varieties to choose from, including farm-fresh tomato and basil, fig and mascarpone and sweet and spicy pepper jam with goat cheese. A rotating selection of cheeses is cycled out to keep the charcuterie boards fresh and up-to-date with whipped ricotta, brie, cambozola and more. And for the meat fans, other boards come with hefty proteins including Spanish chorizo, salami and pork links.

While lunch and dinner here is a guaranteed good time, you’ll especially want to make weekend brunch at Postino a priority. Taking place every Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Postino’s Southlake brunch has many unique entrees that you can’t get during the week. Bubbly cocktails like the ‘Lectric Eye provide their own spin on a traditional Aperol spritz with cappelletti bitters, while the don Blanc is a refreshing lemonade and soda water hybrid. Breakfast bites such as the Ricotta Fritters and Cast Iron Sticky Bread serve as a sweet way to start your day, and the P.R.E.A.M. bowl is packed with eggs, broccolini, avocado and meat skewers that give you a little bit of everything. Don’t forget to try the chocolate bouchon ganache, creme brulee and salted caramel sundae if you’re craving dessert.

At Postino, catering to the customer is prioritized above everything else. Whether you’re an experienced vino connoisseur or are just looking for a place to relax with your friends, Postino is committed to building connections through its luxurious cafe experience.

“We’re all about keeping the good times rolling,” Lauren says. “We hope Postino offers Southlake a thriving hub for good food, good wine and good times for everyone.”

Queen Of Tarts

Internationally-Trained Chef Elevates Southlake Pastry Scene

The new family-owned and operated D’Caramel patisserie in the Kimball Park Shopping Center is off the charts. Combining tastes and influences from around the globe, Chef Anna Narinan’s original creations will transport you to another place with every bite.

After three years of planning and renovating what was formerly a medical office, D’Caramel is bringing a refined pastry palette to the Southlake community. The new bakery features an open kitchen with a full back-of-house view, quaint seating areas and a floor-to-ceiling window for scenic displays such as a gingerbread Eiffel Tower or a chocolate carousel.

“I believe the pastry world is very creative,” Anna says. “[There’s] a lot of space for creating something new.”

Featuring an array of signature treats, such as ParisBrest, eclairs, macarons, croissants, three-dimensional tarts, canelé, individual cakes and seasonal delights like the French bûche de Noël or Yule log, Anna’s one-of-akind recipes set D’Caramel apart from the rest.

Training under the likes of world-renowned pastry chefs such as Cedric Grolet, Stephane Glacier, Daniel Alvarez and Francois Brunet, Anna’s pastries are inspired by the ones you’d find in patisseries across France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Greece, Italy and other neighboring countries.

“I love learning, experimenting and creating something new,” Anna says. “Some chefs give you their recipe and how they do it, but others teach you which is the best way for your own creation.”

Yet when it comes to pastries, quality is the make-itor-break-it factor. Sourced locally and internationally, D’Caramel only uses authentic ingredients such as French fruit puree and butter, Belgian chocolate, Madagascan vanilla beans and Texan dairy for an enriched flavor, texture and taste.

“I’m continually doing homework and working with recipes to finalize and introduce them from my hands and my vision,” Anna says.

After years of experimenting with different methods, techniques and artistic elements, Anna is excited to reveal her unique creations to the community and participate in events like Oktoberfest, where she plans on premiering pretzel-shaped pastries and tarts with sweet beer mousse.

“I would like to grow your own taste and preferences for pastries,” Anna says. “This is my passion, and I am happy to share it with somebody else.”

D’Caramel Patisserie 2211 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 525 DCaramel.com

Fresh Out Of The Ghost Kitchen

Crave Kitchens Delivers Five New Culinary Concepts In One Space

Delivery and pickup orders have been on the rise in the past few years, and many families are always on the lookout for their next convenient to-go option. But they don’t get just one new concept with Crave Kitchens — they get five.

Opening next door to the 280 Sports complex near Southlake Boulevard, Crave Kitchens is a ghost kitchen that emphasizes convenience above all else. You won’t find Mr. Beast Burger or Guy Fieri’s Flavortown in here. Instead, Crave Kitchens specifically caters to its five in-house brands that can’t be found anywhere else in Texas.

“What interested me so much about Crave Kitchens was how much they simplified the entire process,” franchisee Danny Weisman says. “We only need 104 ingredients to run five brands, which is just crazy to me.”

A quick tour through the kitchen shows each station dedicated to its concepts. The pizza oven is always fired up and ready to bake cheesy pies for Brownstone Pizza, while the deep fryer stays bubbling for Flying Rooster’s buffalo and Nashville hot chicken sandwiches. The grill station churns out plenty of Big Red’s juicy burgers, while the wok station is ready to make authentic Asian eats from The Red Crane. And if you’re craving an extra kick to your meal, The Twisted Cactus always brings the heat to its bowls, burritos or tacos.

Families who can’t decide what’s for dinner will love that everyone’s favorite choice is on the menu and ready to order through Crave’s website or app.

“The thing that sets us apart is that when you’re not just ordering from one place – you’re ordering from five,” Danny says. “Normally to get pizza, Mexican and Asian food, you’d have to order from several different places. With Crave Kitchens, the entire family can look through multiple options and everyone can get what they want all at the same time. This is a small kitchen, but we do a lot with it.”

Crave Kitchens

280 Commerce St., Suite 107

Southlake

817.912.1224

CraveKitchens.io

Sunday,

Shopping

arts and CULTURE

STARS ALIGNED

Dallas’ hockey team faces the Blues p. 66

PHOTO BY DALLAS STARS

The Radiance Of Diwali Southlake Town Square Shines Bright With DiwaliFest

So uthlake DiwaliFest is back, brighter and bolder for its sixth annual celebration. Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali honors and embraces Indian traditions through vibrant displays of traditional dance, entertainment and authentic cuisine.

Like Christmas, this joyous festival is deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions. It marks the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and strength over fear. DiwaliFest derives its name from the row, or "avali," of clay lamps called "deepa" that are lit outside of the homes of those who observe it. This gesture symbolizes the inner light that protects against spiritual darkness during the new moon's darkest day.

Southlake DiwaliFest offers many family-friendly attractions that are perfect for all ages. Keep the little ones entertained with arts and crafts and pho -

tobooths, while clothing and jewelry exhibits allow you to tap into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Witness these dazzling pieces during the festival’s fashion show, which features extravagant Indian robes and garments.

The festival truly lights up with the Bharatanatyam dance, which is a southern Indian traditional dance. Get up on your feet and get moving on the dance floor — you’ll be moving with the groove of DiwaliFest when you dance along to the beat with everybody else.

Of course, no festival is complete without delicious food, and DiwaliFest offers a wide array of mouthwatering cuisine such as samosas, pakoras, jalebis and gulab jamun. After you’ve gotten your fill of everything DiwaliFest, the festival will go out with a literal bang with a colorful and extravagant fireworks show. One thing’s assured — Southlake Town Square will be lit up with Indian traditions during DiwaliFest.

DETAILS

Oct. 28

Southlake Town Square

AUTUMN AT THE ARBORETUM

THROUGH NOVEMBER 5

through nov 5

DALLAS ARBORETUM | A world of autumn enchantment awaits as visitors step into the timeless charm of “It’s The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown” at the 18th annual Autumn at the Arboretum. Prepare to be amazed by a staggering array of 100,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash collected from Floydada, the famed pumpkin capital of Texas. Be sure to check out the Pumpkin Village, which comprises dozens of seasonally decorated pumpkin houses, as well as the dizzying pumpkin maze. With so many fantastic pumpkin activities for the whole family, Autumn at the Arboretum is the place to be this fall.

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW

THROUGH OCTOBER 29

DALLAS | Get ready to do the “Time Warp” again, because the longest-running theatrical release in film history is coming to Dallas. Audiences worldwide have celebrated this cult classic since its debut in 1973. Since then, “The Rocky Horror Show” has become a fixture of the midnight movie circuit and continues to draw crowds eager to dress up as their favorite characters and sing along to its catchy tunes. With its blend of rock ‘n’ roll, sci-fi and Gothic vibes, this musical extravaganza promises to take you on a strange journey you won’t soon forget.

PUMPKIN NIGHTS

THROUGH OCTOBER 30

through oct 30

HOWELL FARMS | Providing a Halloween tradition like no other, Pumpkin Nights substitutes fright for delight, offering a festive fall wonderland in Arlington. Venture along a half-mile trail, where Forbidden City and Pirate’s Cove come alive with more than 7,500 beautifully carved pumpkins. Take photos and participate in fun activities along your journey before you arrive at The Village, where fall flavors, mesmerizing fire dances and spirited games come together for an unforgettable night of Halloween entertainment.

STATE FAIR OF TEXAS

SEPTEMBER 29-OCTOBER 22

sep 29-

oct 22

DALLAS | Saddle up for Texas-sized fun at the iconic State Fair of Texas! As you step onto the fairgrounds, prepare for action around every corner with rides, games, musical performances, rodeos and art. Of course, you can’t miss out on the food, and this year’s favorites include the Deep Fried Pho, the Biscoff Delight and the Bourbon Banana Caramel Sopapillas. It’s a taste bud rodeo from deep-fried classics to wild culinary creations.

HALL’S PUMPKIN FARM &

CORN MAZE

SEPTEMBER 29-OCTOBER 31

GRAPEVINE | Hall’s historic farm fills every acre with festivities you won’t want to miss! Try your turn with a 2-mile corn maze, hop on a hayride for some country charm and pose for some snapshots with the scarecrows. Don’t forget to take a break for some of Pop’s kettle corn and hot apple cider while you peruse the gourd-geous pumpkin patch. There are many ways to have a blast at this delightful little pumpkin farm, so come to Hall’s and fall in love with the season.

PUMPKINFEST

OCTOBER 6-22

MEADOWMERE PARK | Embrace the spirit of Halloween at PumpkinFest every weekend in Grapevine. Watch as Meadowmere Park transforms into a haven of festivities. Pick out the perfect pumpkin for carving, strike picture-perfect poses, hike the Halloween-themed trail, play games, enjoy fresh funnel cakes and lemonade and delight in many other exciting surprises. You won’t want to miss PumpkinFest.

Photo by Dallas Arboretum

DALLAS STARS VS. ST. LOUIS BLUES

OCTOBER 14

oct 14

AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER |The Dallas Stars are back on the ice and hungry for victory as they face the St. Louis Blues in their home opener. Anticipate an action-packed game with these Stars ready to shine: forward Matt Duchene, who’s riding the momentum of his career-best season; forward Roope Hintz, a dominant force in the playoffs with an impressive 24 points in 19 games; defenseman Thomas Harley, showcasing his skills with 9 points during the playoffs; and Stars’ captain Jamie Benn, chasing franchise records in both games played and goals scored.

JAUNE QUICK-TO-SEE SMITH

OCTOBER 15 - JANUARY 21

MODERN ART MUSEUM OF FORT WORTH | Explore the groundbreaking art of Jaune Quick-To-See Smith, a pioneer like no other! Witness her trailblazing creations spanning five decades, fusing abstraction, pop art and Neo-Expressionism with her cultural heritage through stunning prints and mesmerizing sculptures. Through satire and humor, her artworks reveal hidden narratives and flaws in the creation of dominant cultures. Dive into a world where boundaries blur, traditions are reimagined and Native ideology takes the spotlight.

Partners: Luis & Lorena Estoga and Jeremy Gilbert (Southlake Carroll Class of ’98 Alumni)

KESHA: THE GAG ORDER TOUR

OCTOBER 15

THE FACTORY IN DEEP ELLUM | is set to ignite the stage with her electrifying “Gag Order Tour” this fall. Following her remarkable comeback in 2017, Kesha’s career has been on an unstoppable rise. Her No. 1 album “Rainbow” not only dominated the charts, but also earned her first Grammy nomina tions for Best Pop Vocal Album and Best Pop Solo Performance. Now with the rollout of her new album of the same name, you’ll have a blast singing along to new and old hits such as “Praying,” “TiK ToK,” “We R Who We Are” and “Die Young.”

JOHNNY CASH - THE OFFICIAL CONCERT EXPERIENCE

OCTOBER 27

DALLAS | Johnny Cash comes back to life in this unprecedented live concert experience. With an impressive 13 Grammy Awards, including a 1999 Lifetime Achievement Award and nine Country Music Association Awards, Johnny Cash’s influence on country music remains unmatched. Relive his music all over again at this live event that features original clips from “The Johnny Cash Show” alongside a live band that makes you feel like you’re right there with him. From “Folsom Prison Blues” to “Ring of Fire,” the hits keep rollin’ as Cash’s spirit comes alive.

KISS: END OF THE ROAD TOUR

OCTOBER 28

DICKIES ARENA | “Rock and Roll All Nite” with KISS as they bring their iconic “End of the Road Tour” to Fort Worth. Having sold over 100 million albums worldwide, KISS has solidified their status as one of the greatest rock bands in history. This farewell tour is a fitting end to a 50-year career that’s filled with timeless classics like “Detroit Rock City,” “Beth” and “Heaven’s on Fire.” Don’t miss this historic night as the Starchild, the Demon, the Catman and the Spaceman suit up for one last time.

CHRIS STAPLETON

OCTOBER 27-28

DOS EQUIS PAVILION | Hold onto your cowboy hats, because the ACM artist-songwriter of the decade is coming to Dos Equis Pavilion. After receiving three Grammys and Album of the Year at the CMA and ACM Awards for his latest album, “Starting Over,” Chris Stapleton will deliver an unforgettable performance filled with both old and new hits like “Tennessee Whiskey,” “You Should Probably Leave” and “White Horse.” With his newest album, “Higher,” releasing on Nov. 10, you won’t want to miss out on seeing this country legend saddle up live.

OCTOBER 28

AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER | John Mayer is strumming into town on his first-ever solo tour! This isn’t just any tour — it’s a trailblazing solo acoustic journey that’s been 20 years in the making. It’s a musical experience that breaks boundaries, just like Mayer, who won seven Grammy Awards and sold over 17 million albums worldwide. From “Gravity”-defying performances to a “Wonderland” of melodies, he’s bringing his chart-toppers center stage, including “Slow Dancing In A Burning Room,” “Heartbreak Warfare,” “Daughters” and “Waiting On the World To Change.”

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

OCTOBER 26-28

DALLAS | Experience the spine-tingling, laugh-filled sensation that is “Little Shop of Horrors: The Musical!” This captivating show has entertained audiences nationwide for over 30 years with its wicked blend of humor, horror and unforgettable music that earned a Grammy nomination for Best Musical Theater Album. Brace yourself for an unexpected twist involving a colossal, man-eating plant that will “leaf” you surprised!

OCTOBER 29

GRAPEVINE VINTAGE RAILROAD | Step right up, ladies and ghouls, for a spooktacular journey through time on Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s Trick ‘R Treat Trains! As you hop aboard, you’ll be treated to a bag of goodies that will satisfy even the most wicked sweet tooths. Throughout the journey, you will hear a variety of Halloween songs and stories that will have you laughing and shivering in equal measure. So, gather your little monsters and make sure they’re dressed in their favorite costumes for this spooky steam engine.

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TINY TAKE

Small but wide open spaces of Hill Country p.70

Big State, Tiny Homes

Firefly Resort Is The Vacation Destination Of The Lone Star State.

Unlike classic resorts that feature hotels, suites and condominiums, Firefly Resort’s tiny homes and RV sites provide a comfortable stay in the privacy of your own space. Located in the heart of Fredericksburg, Firefly Resort is designed to accentuate the views of Texas Hill Country with exclusive amenities and luxurious accommodations that bring the VIP experience to you. Whether you’re planning a family reunion or looking to get away for the weekend, this 53-acre luxury resort is fit for any occasion.

Home Away From Home

The tiny-home trend is still hot, and Firefly Resort shows what it’s like to live in one with luxury. Each

fits anywhere between two to eight people, and nearly every home includes covered patios, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, screened-in porches and direct access to the Firefly Pond. Many also include full baths, in-unit laundry machines and kitchens complete with appliances.

If you’re a nomadic type, you’ll love the RV sites. Featuring easily accessible paved roads, custom concrete pads, water hookups and Wi-Fi connection, these spots are perfect for any RV, motorhome or fifth-wheeler that you can drive in. With multiple sites to choose from, you’ll find unique luxurious amenities such as green spaces, outdoor grilling areas, large fireplaces and lounge areas.

Firefly Resort’s 234 tiny home and RV sites are made to impress with fully-furnished, glamping aesthetics – including high-speed internet, laundry facilities, restrooms and shower suites. Settle down and soak everything in, because each property is raised on tiered rows of land, providing unobstructed views of scenic hill country.

Staycation

Firefly Resort isn’t your standard camping ground. Concierge services assist with setup, itinerary planning and an overview of the resort to ensure every lifestyle is accommodated. Once settled, indulge in the property’s many amenities, such as an upper and lower level infinity pool, family grilling and dining areas, a spacious indoor-outdoor clubhouse and the kid’s playscape.

On-site community events like live music nights, wine tastings and aqua zumba are available for guests to enjoy as part of their stay. Take advantage of the outdoor lounge areas and bask in the starry night, or plan your trip to align with the upcoming “ring of fire” solar eclipse in October 2023.

Out On The Town

As one of the highest-ranked wine destinations in the country and No. 1 in the state, Fredericksburg provides endless sipping opportunities with 75 wineries, breweries and distilleries. Taste new brews and blends while tooling around historic Main Street, which is only 15 minutes away from Firefly Resort. You’ll discover over 150 shops and boutiques that feature antiques, clothing and accessories, home goods and German imports. After perusing through the retail, explore art galleries, historic museums and restaurants that include barbecue, Tex-Mex, traditional German cuisine and more. If Main Street isn’t enough, take part in trade days at Sunday Farms every third Saturday of the month with over 350 vendors and more local goods than you can carry. For those who can’t get enough of the great outdoors, enjoy plenty of excursions at one of the state’s many popular ecotourism spots. Wander through 200 acres of wildflower fields at Wildseed Farms, or trek through state parks, preserves and historic sites within 20 minutes of the resort. If you’re willing to make the drive, Enchanted Rock is just half an hour away, where even more camping, hiking and rock climbing opportunities await. Whether you frequent Fredericksburg or are visiting Firefly Resort for the first time, there's no better place to take in the Texas Hill Country. Firefly-Resorts.com

Dance Instructor Dana Bailey Doesn’t Miss A Beat

Five Six Seven Eight ...

BY CASSIDY REICH WITH PHOTOS BY BLUDOOR STUDIOS

Dana Bailey is no stranger to performing. From appearing in commercials for Pepsi, 7/11, Sonic, Long John Silvers and Radio Shack to acting alongside A-list celebrities like Tom Cruise, Dana relentlessly pursues her passions. But after building a dance enterprise that trains nearly 1,500 students annually, Dana now dedicates her life to helping future generations of performers cultivate their own.

Now celebrating 30 years, Dana’s Studio Of Dance (DSOD) has fostered a secure and inclusive environment for children to learn, perform and compete. In addition to overseeing DSOD’s three studios in Southlake, Keller and Coppell, Dana holds the title of president and artistic director at DFW Performing Arts Conservatory, which she established with her husband, Scott.

Multifaceted and energetic, Dana has played many roles throughout the years, from instructor and performer to mentor and friend. Through selfless love and thoughtful actions, she continues to help others move to their own beat.

FIRST STEPS

From the age of 2, Dana knew she loved to dance.

“I had such a passion for it that I decided to leave my regular public school and go to performing arts school,” Dana says. “I knew no one there, knowing that I’m leaving all my friends to go pursue something that I love.”

Committing to her craft, Dana started instructing across three dance studios in Fort Worth at age 15 and began to love teaching just as much as performing. From that point forward, she reflected on her firsthand experiences so she could one day run her own fully comprehensive studio.

While briefly exploring acting in her late teens, Dana landed her most significant role working alongside Tom Cruise in Oliver Stone’s 1989 film “Born On The Fourth Of July.” There, she learned that she enjoys behind-the-scenes activities rather than being front-stage. Later graduating Cum Laude with a Radio, Television and Film degree at Texas Christian University, Dana set out to make her longtime dreams a reality.

In 1993, she and her husband rented a space in what was previously a Food Lion on Southlake Boulevard. After spending some time there, they received sudden notice from the shopping center’s landlord that they had one month to leave before the space would become what is now Tom Thumb.

“We were like, ‘What are we going to do?’ And it forced my hand to either go, ‘OK, I'm gonna get a lease somewhere else or just buy land and build the way I want it to be,’” Dana says.

Photo by Ken Osadon

Photo by Chris Reilly

Moving to her own rhythm, Dana purchased property on Southlake Boulevard and began building the first exclusive Dana's Studio Of Dance location. Officially opening in 1997, the business was bustling. So much so that within a year, Dana, her husband and her father began drawing up plans to add another building to the property. Years later, the Keller and Coppell locations started coming to fruition, welcoming crowds of aspiring performers.

MORE THAN JUST DANCE

Today, over 50 seasoned performers teach interchangeably across all three studios. Anywhere between 1,000 to 1,500 kids annually learn from professionals who have worked alongside Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, Drake, Dolly Parton and more.

"Some of the kids dance 15, 20, 30 hours a week at the studio, and it's like having almost a full-time job, so just having that safe space for them to do that gets a lot of kids through times in their life," Dana says. "It's hard being a teenager, so if they have that love, passion and outlet, I think it's really important for them. They get in there and move their body and don't have to think about anything else.”

Not only have many former students returned to DSOD to teach, but several former pupils brought the next generation to learn from Dana’s as they once did.

“It’s really cool to see whenever they bring their kids back,” Dana says. “It's just super cute seeing them on the outside of the window rather than on the inside.”

Lacey Maykus, a 1996-2004 DSOD student, often spent more time at the Southlake studio than her own home, fostering relationships that were like family. Over a decade later, she brought her eldest daughter to the studio and will soon bring her youngest.

“It's so fun to see that the studio has maintained that environment even with such amazing growth,” Lacey says. “It still feels like your child is the most important child at that studio, and that's what every mom and parent wants.”

No matter the aspiration, Dana has enabled every student to authentically pursue their passions. From providing performance opportunities at Disney and Universal Studios to connecting personally with each student, Dana teaches her students far more than dance.

“Dana provided so many opportunities outside of just dancing but just really growing as people, and I think that's where Dana's stands apart from a lot of other studios,” Lacey says. “Their teachers and staff have always been so personally invested in their students, and they really believe in every one of them. They provide that safe space to grow, learn and be comfortable.”

Although there are many notable success stories from former students, Dallas Cowboy cheerleader Lacey Knight is a testament to DSOD’s ambitious and grounded approach.

“I learned how to be a good teammate and how to show up and give it my all, so I really think the lessons I learned while at the studio helped me to go on and dance professionally in the NFL,” Lacey says. “It's taught me a lot about dedication and staying loyal to the team that you're on.”

Years may fall between each dance company, yet ev-

ery student who crosses Dana’s path moves forward with people to call family and a place to call home.

"I remember practicing all of my solos and tryout dances for [the Cowboys] within the studios at Dana's, and Dana was always so supportive and opened up the studio for me whenever it was after hours so that I could get in that extra practice," Lacey says. "She and Dana's as a whole was a huge support system for me, and they became like family."

EXPLORING NEW AVENUES

Once the Baileys expanded their own family, Dana harkened back to her tumultuous high school transition. Looking toward their future in a sports-minded community that was only getting larger, Dana decided to be the change she wanted to see and opened the Dallas Fort Worth Performing Arts Conservatory in 2009.

“To have an outlet for [kids] where everyone is in the same environment of people that all want the same love for the arts, then it's so cool to see them because there's no cliques of the nerds or the cheerleaders,” Dana says. “They feel comfortable because everybody else is trying everything.”

Although DFW PAC isn’t a large school, it carries a tremendous impact. Part of a graduating class of three, Peyton Mayeux attended for five years before going to work in the entertainment industry.

“I missed out on certain opportunities like football, homecoming, stuff like that, but I got to perform at Disney World, Universal, Oktoberfest and all over the metroplex,” Peyton says. “It really opened some cool doors for me.”

Currently teaching at DSOD and soon to be employed with Disney in Orlando, Peyton attributes much of her success to Dana and DFW PAC.

“She trusted me from the beginning and gave me so many opportunities, and I always knew that I had a home to come to,” Peyton says. “Being a female business owner, she has done nothing but kill it for the last 30 years. She’s really done great things and provides a safe environment for performers.”

INSPIRATION THAT NEVER STOPS

Described as an avid “doer” by many, Dana never gives up on anything or anyone. When you ask her what the most rewarding aspect is, it’s always those she serves.

“It's not work when you can put something that you love, that you're passionate about, that you can get up every day and are like, ‘I love what I do, I love that I'm bringing this to these kids,’” Dana says. “The passion that I have for dance or the other arts to be able to pass that along and just to see what it does for the other kids is pretty amazing – gives me the chills.”

Dana is still very much involved in DSOD and DFW PAC, observing the legacy she built and the lives she inspired. As her students reach new heights, she continues to cheer them on, one step at a time.

“It's given me a purpose,” Dana says. “Obviously, I love to dance, but don't do that aspect as much anymore. Now I'm just running the businesses, but just to be able to sit back and watch the next generation and the next generation, that's what I enjoy now.”

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY DRAGONS CARE CELEBRATES RIBBON-CUTTING

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MARCH THROUGH MAIN STREET

DRAGONS’ HOMECOMING PARADE THROUGH TOWN SQUARE

CELEBRATING SOUTHLAKE

THE CITY CELEBRATES HISTORY, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY

PERFECT TIMING

Homecoming sights and sounds

parting SHOT

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