Fort Worth Magazine - November 2008

Any baby boomer will tell you that you’re never too old to try something new. But if your latest activity is a bit risky, you might want to know a first-class orthopedic specialist.

Plaza Medical Center is home to some of the leading orthopedic pioneers in Texas. Our renowned team of orthopedists is the first in Texas and the only one in Fort Worth to earn Joint Commission certification for hip and knee replacement. We’re also Fort Worth’s most experienced team: Last year, we performed more than 2,000 surgical procedures, from routine, minimally-invasive hip, knee and joint repairs to total reconstructions.

We want all of our patients to be physically able to take on exciting new challenges. It’s that simple. We do difficult. You do life. It happens every day at a place called Plaza.

PRIVATE LAKEFRONT LUXURY LIVING.

There’s more to The Harbor than the clear blue waters and limestone bluffs of Possum Kingdom Lake. There’s a community of back porch gatherings and marshmallow roasts; horseback rides and nature hikes; power boating and poolside relaxation—all just about an hour west of Fort Worth. Premium lakeshore living finds a home here in luxury condos, cottages, verandas, and antique timber frame cabins. Come relax and enjoy the Lakeside Inn, The Grille, the family pool and, soon to come, our state-of-the-art Harbor Spa and Fitness Center. It’s enough to make every memory picture perfect. Call (800) 886-1451 today to schedule your tour.

H ARBO R L IVIN G . CO M

Contents

[ Features ]

22

Holiday Gift Guide

We have more than 30 special somethings for everyone on your list, including the conservatives, the socialites, the hosts and hostesses, and the downtown urbanites in your life. by Amy Hallford

34

Ready to Stand

Melissa Lawson, Arlington native and winner of music competition Nashville Star, reveals what keeps her grounded on the road to fame. by Cortney Strube

44

2008 Dream Home

The doors are open to the most anticipated event of the year—the unveiling of the 2008 Fort Worth, Texas magazine Dream Home in Southlake’s prestigious Palomar Estates. by Alison Rich

90

Mr. Baseball at Home Plate

Bobby Bragan: A life built on 60 years of baseball and devotion to others. by Jennifer Casseday-Blair

156

The

Way to Stay

The soon-to-rise Stayton at Museum Way will be a luxurious and sustainable retirement community touting a sought-after Seventh Street address. by Alison Rich

[ Special Advertising Sections ]

117

44 Fort Worth, Texas magazine’s 2008 Dream Home

2008 Dream Home Vendors Worth Knowing

167 Home Builders Worth Knowing

Worth the Drive

A big time in Big

Worth Repeating

Get the latest and greatest scoop on the happenings of Fort Worth in this month’s Worth Repeating. 103

Worth Framing

Peruse our party pics and see who’s out and about this season.

176 Worthy Cause: Happy Hill Farm by

Cortney Strube

Worthy Cause: SafeHaven by

Ana Bak

184 Worth Cooking

Sweet-Savory Venison Sausage by Judie Byrd

187

Worth Doing

Thinking about dancing a two-step at Billy Bob’s or strolling through an exhibit at the Modern? View our Worth Doing section for a complete guide to Fort Worth’s events.

197 Worth Tasting

Ready to Stand: Melissa Lawson

Taste perfection at The Keg Steakhouse & Grill. 198 Dining Guide

Crowley native and reality star Joshua Allen wins “So You Think You Can Dance.”

Columns ]

According to Heywood All Stereotypers are Narrow-minded

174 Anchors’ Outtakes

Ingredients to a Happy and Healthy Life by Tracy Kornet, co-anchor of CBS 11 News at 4 p.m.

180 Parental Guidance Suggested

Parental Guidance Suggested

Mr. Baseball: Bobby Bragan 34

The Dentist and the Dumb A … by Shauna Glenn

november 2 o – 22

It’s Party tIme! and Nm is the place to find what you need to go glam— the best dresses, accessories, and beauty. Plus, we have a treat for you—a trio of nm exclusive bangles by roxanne assoulin for lee angel. they’re yours with a $500 regular-priced purchase of women’s apparel, accessories, designer jewelry, handbags, shoes, or cosmetics.

Gift available in stores or online during this event. One per customer, please, while supplies last.

foRt woRtH, tExAS m AGAZINE 200 cULINARY AwARDS

With so many talented chefs and exquisite dining options in Fort Worth, we couldn’t possibly choose the winners of this year’s 2008 Culinary Awards in Fort Worth, Texas magazine. Therefore, we employ you, our readers, to vote for your favorites in 50 categories ranging from Greek to Thai, as well as specific preferences running the gamut from best bar food to best wine list.

Please go to fwtx.com and review the categories provided, and answer each one based on your personal opinion. We want to know what YOU think is the best restaurant/venue in each category. The answers from the survey will be compiled and used as a guideline in choosing the best restaurants in Tarrant County for our Annual Culinary Awards. The results will be published in the December 2008 issue of Fort Worth, Texas magazine.

talk to us!

We welcome all suggestions, comments and questions about Fort Worth, Texas magazine and the articles we publish for the Fort Worth community. Send comments by visiting us online at fwtx.com. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

To subscribe to fort worth , texas magazine, or to ask questions regarding your subscription, call 800.856.2032. fort worth , texas : the city’s magazine is published monthly by Fort Worth , texas M agazine Venture , LP, 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Suite 130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116.

Basic subscription price: $23.95 per year. Single copy price: $3.95. Application to mail at periodical postage rates is pending at Fort Worth, Texas. P o ST m AST er : Send address changes to fort worth , texas , 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Suite 130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116.

©2008 Fort Worth, Texas Magazine Venture, LP. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

how to contact us

For questions or comments concerning editorial content, contact Hal Brown, publisher, at 817.560.6115 or via e-mail (hbrown@fwtexas.com).

Setting SightS on Southlake

Just after

the closing of our 2006 Fort Worth, Texas magazine Dream Home, I set my sights on finding a Southlake location for our next Dream Home. Truthfully, until six or seven years ago, I could honestly say I had never personally had a reason to make the drive to Southlake. Once I did, however, I was captivated.

Southlake has a charm that is undeniable. Its 131-acre Town Square is an outdoor shopping mall on steroids. It provides its patrons with the convenience of paying a speeding ticket at City Hall and mailing a package at the local post office, followed by a brief stop at Starbucks to grab a Grande Double Latte before picking-up a new shirt at Banana Republic or White House Black Market—all in one stop. A manicured 4-acre lawn, including shade trees, a fountain and a gazebo, fronts the 1.2 million square feet of businesses. All of this is interconnected with walkways and well-thought-out streets that keep traffic flowing, which is increasingly important as the community’s population has exploded, increasing almost 500 percent in the last 20 years (from 5,000 to over 25,000).

After months of scouting the Southlake area, I learned of Palomar Estates, a prestigious new development just off Southlake Boulevard that perfectly fit the bill. We were fortunate to secure a 1.3-plus-acre tree-covered lot that is perched on a hilltop and is adjacent to a heavily wooded 1.5-plus-acre green space protected from future development.

Many of the upscale housing developments (including Palomar Estates) that have mushroomed in Southlake over the last decade are located only minutes from the Square. Though convenient to the Southlake resident, many of these developments can be intimidating to find if you’re a visitor who doesn’t know his or her way around the well-paved old farm roads that lead to these estates. (We found this out the hard way when we built our 2003 Dream Home in Southlake.) Therefore, in selecting this year’s home, the first thing I looked for was location, location, location. The 2008 Dream Home in Palomar Estates is conveniently located just two miles down Randol Mill Road, off the intersection of Southlake Boulevard, Keller Parkway and Davis Boulevard.

Many vendors contributed to the transformation of this year’s home, but none more than the builder, Bill Jefferies of Jefferies Custom Homes, and Dani Robertson of Lighthouse Furniture and Design Center. Jefferies’ meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout this Spanish-Mediterranean masterpiece. Robertson, who was responsible for the overall interior design of the home, including product selection, furniture, custom window treatments and bedding, helped Jefferies transform the dream into a reality. Twenty-four months and a lot of planning later, we present our 2008 Fort Worth, Texas magazine Dream Home benefiting the Colleyville Woman’s Club.

Hal A. Brown publisher

All Stereotypers are Narrow-minded

Every so often over the past 10 years, a few friends and I have been meeting after work over at the legendary M&M Steakhouse. It’s a little wood frame restaurant that sits right on the edge of NW 28th Street, a busy corridor on the north side of Fort Worth. It’s a great place to eat and, other than the occasional automobile flying through the kitchen, it’s relatively quiet.

It’s also a good place to talk and have a few beers, although I don’t drink … unless, of course, it’s a situation where alcohol is warranted like jury duty, piano recitals or anytime during a marriage.

Anyway, as the evening wears on, my friends invariably start making broad generalizations about different groups or types of people, which really irritates me because I’m just not that narrow-minded. I’ve never thought you could lump people into categories … although I’ve never met a neurosurgeon or long-distance runner who wasn’t weird.

Frankly, I just don’t understand stereotyping. Psychologists tell us that the reason people stereotype is because it gives them a feeling of superiority. Fortunately, that’s never been my problem. I realized a long time ago that I’m no better than anybody else. And even if I am, I never let on.

I’m very open-minded and part of the reason is that I was very inquisitive growing up. I gently shook Christmas presents, probed electrical sockets and once asked a couple of bikers if everyone else in their gang was unattractive. It paid off because after I ran that gauntlet of bicycle chains, I think those Bandidos finally embraced me.

Self-confidence is also a key to a healthy attitude. I was lucky to have parents who gave me that confidence by supporting all of my career decisions. Even when I quit school to take a position making Baskin-Robbins sample spoons, you could see by the tears in their eyes that they were almost proud.

But I have three other qualities that are equally important. The first is compassion. During the coffee break at a recent anger management class, one of the other attendees told the group that he was going to start a new Web site that offered free assistance to people who have a serious drug problem and want to do something about it. I told him that would be a wonderful idea, if not for the fact that serious drug users have already sold their computers. I felt bad for him, but we all had a good laugh at his expense.

The second is sincerity. Although I’m a bit of a chauvinist, it’s very important to be gender-sensitive, and to not secretly mock women whose viewpoints are different from mine, whether I’m listening to Oprah (the patron saint of

every chick buying wheat germ at the health food store) or talking to other like-minded ladies (assuming they’re not busy watching “The L Word” or discussing “chakras”).

And the final is integrity. I’ve been careful to live my life by time-tested principles and rules. And as a rule, I never pass judgment on anyone until I really know them, unless I’ve heard they’re jerks. And that rule is as true today as it was last week when I made it up.

So, if you ever catch me over at M&M Steakhouse, come by and say hello. You might want to remove your wristwatch, because it could possibly get demagnetized by the plate in my head. (See Bandidos, supra.) I’d enjoy hearing your views, unless you’re a libertarian. You people are all alike.

by Heywood

Heywood is a morning show host at 95.9 FM The Ranch. All complaints can be directed to Heywood@TheRanchRadio.com.

Award Winning Excellence:

~ Best of Show, Kaleidoscope of Homes™ 2007, 2008

~ People’s Choice, Kaleidoscope of Homes™ 2007, 2008

~ Best Master Suite, Kaleidoscope of Homes™ 2007, 2008

~ Best Home Furnishings, Kaleidoscope of Homes™ 2007

~ Best Home Furnishings in Fort Worth, Fort Worth, TX Magazine 2008

interior design

A Big Time in Big Bend

The vast West Texas landscape leaves no taste unsatisfied.

About the time November rolls around, thoughts of impending holiday shopping frenzies and elaborate parties come to mind. But before you start to worry about what to wear or serve, have yourself a little holiday in the surprisingly luxurious Big Bend region. Located in West Texas near the banks of the Rio Grande, this expansive area is a gem.

First things first: Book a reservation at the luxurious Lajitas Resort & Spa (877.525.4827), where a modernWestern feel is translated into spacious suites and private haciendas. Tucked between Big Bend National Park and Big Bend State Park, Lajitas is a true Texas treasure. Not only will you have access to the Agavita Spa, which uses all-natural resources from the Big Bend area, but there is also the brand new Ambush Golf Course that features “an optional par one in Mexico.” But don’t spend your whole week at the spa because there are too many fantastic local shops to visit and too many sites to see!

While you wait between facials, massages and golfing, there is still much to do. You’ll want to stop by Christina’s World (432.424.3250) in Terlingua to buy some beautiful and original turquoise jewelry. The one-of-a-kind stones are definitely a work of art. And if it’s local arts and crafts of spectacular quality that you’re looking for, swing by Comanche Creek Art Gallery (432.424.5167), also in Terlingua. End your day of shopping with a meal at Candelilla Café (432.424.5000), known for their homemade tortilla soup and unbeatable patio dining, or make special event reservations at Ocotillo (432.424.5105), a gourmet catering restaurant.

At Terlingua Junction and Ghost Town, there are several shops, including Many Stones (432.371.2994) and Quicksilver Trading Company (432.371.2636) that offer original craftwork and paintings. Do not miss Terlingua Trading Company (432.371.2234)—home to Whitson’s Chili Products—which are often used in the Annual Terlingua International Chili cook-off. While you are there, grab a jar of their famous 15-minute chili products.

If you’re in the area on Nov. 1, you won’t want to miss the granddaddy of all chili cook-offs. This 42nd annual cook-off of great proportions features chili cooks that went to great lengths for a featured spot. From the ones who like it hot, to those who are more mild-mannered, there is chili for every taste. Now a chili connoisseur, you will certainly appreciate learning how such cook-off winners as Debbie Ashman, who created last year’s treat “Deb’s Red Hot Chili,” craft their delectable dishes. If you like what you taste, the Chili Appreciation Society International, host of this cook-off at Rancho CASI de los Chisos near Terlingua, provides the recipes of winning

by Stacy Williams

e xpansive texas treasure / Located in West Texas near the banks of Rio Grande, the Big Bend region grants access to such area attractions as Terlingua shopping, Lajitas Resort & Spa and Far Flung Outdoor Center.

chili dishes for your personal recipe collection.

And there’s something for the adventurer in you, too! Whether you choose to start with a Jeep tour from Far Flung Outdoor Center (800.839.7238) or the Desert by Dark tour at nightfall, trekking through the Rio Grande area will be a blast. If you prefer to experience “history on horseback” on the Apache Canyon All Day Trail Ride at Lajitas Stables (800.887.4331), there is one tour you won’t want to miss—the three-day “Gourmet on the Rio Grande” rafting trip by Far Flung Outdoor Center. Not only can you quell your sense of adventure, but also refine your taste buds. This tour features nights of fine campfire dining as prepared by Francois Maeder of Crumpets Restaurant and Nouvelle Cuisine. There is a selection of delicacies such as marinated shrimp, veal, rack of lamb, quail, Beef Wellington or duck, with night-caps of fine wines, dessert and brandy. With such an offer as this, reservations should be made early so you do not miss this unique opportunity.

Everything your pallet experiences over the week will be hard-matched. From top chefs to seasoned chili-champions, there is no better way to impress your party guests than with a taste of Big Bend. fw

STARRING COMFORT / Hug the curves at Big Bend in the 2008 Lexus ES 350. With heated and ventilated front seats and a panoramic glass roof, take a cozy look at the West Texas night sky.

Lipo

Restylane/Perlane/Evolence

Botox

Obagi

Sculptra®

IPL

Personal Make-up Makeovers

Microdermabrasion/Microdermapeel

Worth Repeating

Whether it’s culinary accomplishments or famed artists paying us a visit, see how Tarrant County citizens are making headlines.

Legendary Jazz

Legends are born, not made, as is the case with Ornette Coleman. The Fort Worth native proves this is true with his latest accomplishment. After recording a career-making debut at 29, “The Shape of Jazz to Come,” and creating “harmolodics” that would put a new spin on music, the now 78-year-old has received one of the greatest honors a jazz artists can be bestowed. This selftaught saxophonist was inducted into the Jazz Hall of Fame this November to join the likes of Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald and John Coltrane.

Over the years as he also took up trumpet and violin, Coleman began to envision another new sound for the growing jazz movement called “Prime Time,” which incorporates a heavy collaboration of “harmolodics.” With the loud, swanky sounds he created, it was no surprise that in the 1980s he was picked to work with the Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia. Coleman is no stranger to honoraries though, having won the MacArthur Foundation “Genius” award in 1994, the Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize in 2004, and in 2007 received the Living Legend Award, the Texas Medal of the Arts, and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Pour House Loses Home

With a 13-year legacy under his belt, eric TscHeTTer, owner of the Pour House in Sundance Square, has not given up hope. In September, after nearly four years of lawsuits with two consecutive landlords, the owner of the local dive announced that it is shutting down to make way for renovations and other businesses. Know as the “Cheers of Fort Worth,” the sports bar always celebrates “Fundays,” which never leave the locals unsatisfied.

Whether it’s “Ladies Night” or Karaoke on Sunday, this popular hangout has entertained bar-goers and kept their thirsts quenched for more than a decade. And Tschetter will continue to do so through the end of the year by serving up “Killer Bunnybowls” and live music from the likes of Rouge Radio and Turning Trixie, just like they always have. Even though the bar officially closes on Dec. 31, Tschetter continues to search for a new hole in the wall. Where the Pour House will finally plant its bar stools is unknown, but one thing is certain—this local favorite will live on despite the hardships it faces.

Going For the Gold

While many young Olympiads returned to their respective towns in Texas with hearts and hands full of gold, another competitor was preparing for the feat of his life. For a month and a half, Timothy Prefontaine, executive chef for The Fort Worth Club, trained for 12 to 18 hours a day to make a spectacular showing at the 22nd IKA “Culinary Olympics,” which took place Oct. 18-22 in Erfurt, Germany. Better than any Iron Chef or competitor in “Hell’s Kitchen,” the “Culinary Olympics” only takes place every four years and is a test of the talent and will of only the most prestigious chefs around the world.

“All you do is live it, breath it, eat it for 72 hours,” said Prefontaine of competing against 52 other countries at the Culinary Olympics. One of only 22 chefs on Team USA, Prefontaine has experience in the field of culinary competition. He has already won three golds and one silver at the American Culinary Classic in Chicago. After studying under River Oaks Country Club of Houston Executive Chef Charles Carroll, who has been to the Culinary Olympics seven times, Prefontaine has some of the best experience under his toque—learning that helped him battle some of the best chefs in the world this October.

BEst BurgEr Joint

With the McDonalds, Wendys and Burger Kings of the world, we lose the quality of the burger, says John Finlayson, owner of Johnny B’s Burger & Shakes. This family-owned restaurant in Southlake has won the 2008 Citysearch’s “Best Hamburger” award. Citysearch is a local search engine to find the latest on companies, restaurants and shops. Johnny B’s Burger & Shakes opened in December 2004, and since then has served customers with their signature sourdough buns and hand cut fries, maintaining their vision of providing the highest quality burgers.

Wild Card Exclusive

We’ve all seen at least one episode of Orange County Choppers and have been pretty amazed at the work they do on some of the craftiest motorcycles in existence, but you don’t have to travel to California to find one of the best custom bike builders in the country. Jaxon Fyffe, owner of Wild Card Customs based right here in Fort Worth, has top-notch talent. But what’s more, he was recently invited to one of the most exclusive motorcycle competitions around … and speed has nothing to do with it.

Each year, the top 25 custom bike artists in the country are invited to Las Vegas to the Artistry in Iron competition, Oct. 2-5. This year, our very own Fyffe was in the mix of it all. In the heat of competition, he was judged not only by his peers, but also by the more than 35,000 spectators at this one-of-a-kind event. Fyffe didn’t walk away with the title of Artistry in Iron Master Builders champion, but not to worry—he’s already won the position of Top Overall Custom and third place on Metric TV’s “Metric Revolution” in the bike build-off with his original creation, “Speedliner.” This sweet ride also won second place at the 2006 Daytona Biketoberfest, and is the first metric to be featured by Easy Riders. And his history doesn’t include bike building alone—he races, too. Fyffe won the 1997 Texas State Championship where he raced to the finish line and beat out his competitors with time to spare.

Finlayson, whose father owns a cheeseburger restaurant in Missouri, said he has always been fascinated by the burger

industry. As a former vice president of sales for a Fortune 500 company, Finlayson said he and his family moved around a lot. Living in big cities like Los Angeles, Phoenix and Tuscon, they’ve eaten a lot of burgers. “We’d always try to find the best cheeseburger place in the new location,” he said. When the family was relocated to Southlake, the family did the same thing. They tried to find the best cheeseburger spot in town, but found that no burger joint could satisfy their taste buds. So the family decided to open their own restaurant. “It’s really an honor for a little guy like me to win this award,” Finlayson said. “I’ve always said it’s the best burger in town, so I’m not surprised. I think we’ve earned that right in the market place; it’s a reward we were delighted in.”

Riding to Win

With less than two years under their belt buckles, the TCU Women’s Equestrian Team has proved that quality is better than quantity. Many college equestrian teams from out of state have as many as 80 riders, but the TCU team of only six women showed them that Texas still knows how to ride best.

Gary Reynolds, the team’s coach, pushed the women to a 15-0 perfect season. Faced with many tie-breakers throughout the year, such seasoned riders as Jessica Bailey had their final showdown with the University of Georgia. Others, such as Ashton Mickunas, a freshman, had a completely undefeated reign. Their crowning achievement though is their win at the 2008 Varsity Equestrian Western National Championship in Georgia. This win was easily one of the biggest that TCU has seen, especially since it was done in the team’s inaugural season. In its 10-year history, the collegiate sport has never had a team win as quickly as the TCU Women’s Equestrian did.

Now the women start a new season with a new team and big hopes to ride over the competition for another National Championship.

Bowling Central

The Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys better make room. A new sport is in town, and it’s moving to 621 Six Flags Drive in Arlington. The unconventional sport of bowling is striking out in this town by bringing in all things associated with the balls and pins. Not only is the United States Bowling Congress Headquarters relocating to Arlington, but the St. Louis-based Hall of Fame is also heading our way. The two will join the Bowling Proprietors Association of America, the International Bowling Museum, the Bowling Foundation, the International Bowling Pro Shops & Instructors Association and Strike Ten Entertainment, providing an oh-so convenient one-stop-shop for all kingpins.

Among other things, there will be a 20-lane training center and a testing and research facility. The multiple organizations will be housed in one building creating a bowling haven. Now there is only one place an avid bowler would want to cart his or her pins—and it’s Arlington.

A ChristmasCowboys

the search for the perfect gift for Dallas Cowboys’ fans is over, at least for those who are feeling extremely generous this Christmas. in the Cowboys’ final season at texas Stadium in irving, one part of the stadium’s legacy is for sale. as part of the neiman Marcus Christmas Book, texas Stadium’s 530-square-yard end zone is for sale for $500,000. with the purchase of this turf comes a post-game tailgate party with the Cowboys’ players and cheerleaders. the purchase will also be charitable as proceeds will go to the Salvation army. if you think coming up with half a million dollars is a challenge, think about trying to wrap the end zone or placing it under the Christmas tree. if football isn’t for you and money is of no concern, the other nine neiman Marcus Fantasy gifts may make your dreams come true. other items include a his-and-her life-size lego Sculpture for $60,000 each, a limited edition 2009 BMw individual Series sedan plus a vacation on the French riviera, together for $160,000, and a threehole backyard golf course designed by golfer Jack nicklaus for $1 million.

Gift Guide Holiday 2008

From $25 embroidered hand towels to $16,000 earrings, we’ve got more than 30 special somethings for everyone on your list, including the conservatives, the socialites, the hostesses, and the downtown urbanites in your life.

2 3 4 5

1. VelVet-top Dress, $895, Badgley Mischka. Neiman Marcus (NM).

2. FiVe-stranD gunmetal necklace in clear crystal, $320, NM Exclusive.

3. calzature Donna Vitello metallic peep-toe, $480, Miu Miu. NM.

4. saFFiano Black Wallet, $295, Prada. NM.

5. 11-carat green tourmaline ring, price upon request, Sam Lehr Designs. NM.

6. one-oF-a-kinD cuFF, 4.6 carats set in 18-karat White golD, price upon request, Sam Lehr Designs. NM.

7. paisley ties, $250, Stefano Ricci. NM.

6

8. Black clutch, $225, Lauren Merkin. NM.

9. o ne-o F -a-kin D tanzanite, t VsaVorite, sapphire an D aquamarine pen Dant on an 18-karat B lack gol D chain, price upon request, Sam Lehr Designs. NM.

10. t hree- Button B lack suit, $1,795, Armani Collezioni; p ink Dress s hirt, $195, Ike Behar; paisley t ie , $195, Brioni. NM.

11. Black DiamonD classic cushion cuFF links, $2,650, David Yurman. NM.

12. riVerDale nero calF leather shoe, $450, Ferragamo. NM.

1 2 3 4

To:The ConservaTive

1. Pearl Necklace, $250, Amy Kramer Designs. April Lane.

2. ‘Dallas’ ostrich-embosse D P ee P toe P latform, $150, Banana Republic.

3. ta N c ashmere Zi P U P s weater, $695; b row N c ashmere Pi N s tri P e c oat, $1,545, Ermenegildo Zegna. Neiman Marcus (NM).

4. r as P berry leather Gloves, $138, NM.

5. t ext U re D b elte D Dress i N c arob c hi P, $150, Banana Republic.

6. b row N leather b elt, $280, Gucci; t erra Pebble c alf wallet, $275, Ferragamo. NM.

7. c lassic b row N Pa N ts, $245, Ermenegildo Zegna. NM.

8. sUNDay loafer i N NewaU bU r N c alf, $475, Ferragamo. NM.

9. lo ND o N c olo GN e, $67.50, Burberry. NM.

5 8 7 9

2 3 4 6 5 7

To:The UrbaniTe

3. Motorcyc Le J eans with studs, $275, Robin’s Jeans. Spoiled Pink.

4. ru BB er s ports watch, $1,695, Philip Stein. Neiman Marcus (NM).

5. M en’s vicious cyc Le BLue J eans, $304, Rock & Republic. NM.

6. Gothic c uff Links, $390, King Baby. NM.

7. B L ack v e Lvet B L azer with h oodie, $895, Royal Underground. NM.

HosTo:TheTess

1. Embroid E r E d Hand Tow E ls, $25, The Secret Garden; m arqu E Frog Par T y Card Hold E r, $145, Ercuis. PS The Letter.

2. w in E rEFE r E n CE book, $53, Graphic Image. PS The Letter.

3. bE ad E d b laC k d r E ss, $565, Carmen Marc Valvo. Neiman Marcus (NM).

4. d iamond 3.05- C araT E arrings using PE ar, round and marquis diamonds, price upon request, Sam Lehr Designs. NM.

5. rE d and Pink didi Pum P, $235, Cynthia Vincent. April Lane.

6. m ann E rs and oCC asions books, $35, Kate Spade. PS The Letter.

7. s ongbird salT and P EPPE r sH akE rs, $595, Jay Strongwater. PS The Letter.

4 3 2 1 5 6 7

Ready to Stand

As the September sun breaks through the worn wooden beams of Fort Worth’s historic Stockyards Station, 32-year-old Melissa Lawson is perfectly poised. With her signature Gibson in hand, the Arlington native looks completely at ease with her surroundings—it’s not the first time her boots have stepped foot on these century-old, brick-laden alleyways, nor is it her first go-round in front of the camera. The sunlight hits her face at just the right angle, and as our photographer goes in to snap the shot, Lawson hears something that stops her in her tracks. Playing faintly over the loudspeakers is her first single, “What If It All Goes Right.” The sixth season winner of NBC’s Nashville Star is ecstatic. “They’re playing my song!” she says, explaining that she’s only heard it on the radio a handful of times since her big win in August. The humble wife and mother of five boys looks toward the Texas sky and gives a big “Thanks God!” In that moment, it seems no accident that the up-and-coming country music star with a heart of gold is on the brink of something that only months ago seemed impossible.

When I first met Lawson the week before, she warmly welcomed me into her home in Dalworthington Gardens, where toys and trucks were scattered across the floor, and the wails of a crying toddler and a ringing telephone filled the room. The signs of little boys were everywhere, and despite the fact that the reigning “Nashville Star” is officially on tour and working on her first major album (due out at the beginning of the year), Lawson’s real job—mother to Maverick, 8, Harlan, 7, Zaden, 4, Xander, 3, and Ryker, 1—is something she wouldn’t trade for platinum-selling albums or Top 10 Billboard hits.

To say things have been a whirlwind for Lawson would be an understatement. In a matter of months, she’s taken home the sacred title that earned her a record deal with Warner Bros. Nashville, accompanied by an album produced by John Rich of country music sensation Big & Rich. She traveled to Beijing to perform at the opening ceremonies for the 2008 Olympics, snagged herself some stylish additions to her wardrobe (she got to keep the clothes she wore on the show) and gladly accepted the rights to the bright red Toyota Tundra pickup truck she won on the show’s finale, which she handed over to her husband of 11 years, Rick Lawson. She’s currently on the road for the 2008 Nashville Star Tour and kicked off the nationwide concert series with a sold-out show at the Argosy Casino in St. Louis. From the outside looking in, Lawson’s story seems like a dream, but for

Melissa Lawson, Arlington native and winner of NBC’s country music talent competition Nashville Star, is here to prove she has what it takes to be the next great country music artist with friends and family to keep her grounded, faith to keep her strong and loyal fans to remind her how she got this far in the first place.

the hometown girl who prides herself in being super thrifty, loves playing with her boys and speaks with just a tinge of a Texas twang, the journey hasn’t always been breezy.

Having been in pursuit of a career in country music since she began belting out tunes on the opry circuit at age 13, Lawson is the epitome of a person who has worked a lifetime at breaking stereotypes and defeating the odds. On Nashville Star, Lawson was the oldest female contestant, was married with a tribe of children and weighed roughly 298 pounds when she auditioned for the show. She’s no stranger to reality TV either; Lawson competed in the fourth season of American Idol and made it to the Top 75 before being cut from the show with zero airtime. She also tried out for CMT’s reality competition Can You Duet, but that road was also cut short.

Aside from the aforementioned, Lawson doesn’t exactly fit the criteria for the young, blonde, size 2 country music icon that many record labels seek—nor does she want to. Though she’s lost more than 70 pounds since the show by changing her eating habits and incorporating exercise into her daily routine, she says her weight has been an is-

sue she’s faced her entire life, and she’s finally making a lifestyle change. Lawson says it’s been somewhat difficult losing the weight in the spotlight and, despite what some people may envision for her future weight loss, she’s got her own goal in mind. “That may not be what other people think is good,” she said. “There are industry people who will say ‘That’s not good enough. That’s not what we’re looking for. We want a size 2,’ but the reality of it is that it doesn’t matter how much weight I lose. I’m 5’7” and I’ll never be that [small]. That’s not 98 percent of women in the world.”

Lawson says with the help of her trainer, Ray Wehr, director of personal training at The Texas Club fitness center in Dallas, she has relearned how and what to eat. She also finds herself running (something she says she never imagined she’d ever be doing) and says Wehr has taught her to turn playground equipment at the park into exercise equipment. “It’s amazing—the steps of the slide make a great stair-stepper,” said Wehr, who said Lawson has a great mental attitude regarding her weight loss. “What’s been great is that she’s a new person every day. She keeps getting smaller and smaller, and that’s a neat thing to see.”

Due to a lot of hard work and determination, an unfaltering faith in God and the support and accessibility of her family and friends, Lawson’s lifetime of persistence is finally paying off. She’s co-writing the songs for her album with some of the industry’s leading musicians and songwriters, including Nashville Star judge Jeffrey Steele. Her hit single, “What If It All Goes Right,” which quickly rose to No. 1 on the iTunes country chart shortly after it debuted, is being played on the radio between the likes of country music legends George Strait and Garth Brooks. Well on her way to making her dream a reality, there’s nothing left to lose for this Nashville Star. Lawson is the real deal, and what you see is definitely what you get.

Beautiful Balance

For someone who could potentially become the next great female country music artist, Lawson isn’t letting the fame and media attention go to her head. In the cut-throat music industry that can suck you in one day and spit you out the next, Lawson is keeping her focus on what’s important and not taking a single day for granted.

“I’ve really made a very conscious effort to be in the present for each and every moment and to not be all caught up in everything,” she said. “As easy as it is to do, I don’t want to look back and go ‘Where was I? I missed it.’

I’ve traveled down this road before Got slammed in the backside by the door

You’d think I’d have learned my lesson

It’s time for fate to lend a hand

‘Cause God knows I’ve done all I can With every step I’ve taken

For every door that’s closed, I just keep hopin And praying that someday this one will open

I’m here, right now, it’s time, I’m ready to go

And show the world that I’m here

No holding back, I’m giving it all to take this chance

I’m ready to stand

Don’t be deceived by what you see Just close your eyes, believe with me

I’m here, right now, it’s time, I’m ready to go And show the world that I’m here

No holding back, I’m giving it all to take this chance I’m ready to stand

“Ready To Stand” by Melissa Lawson & Margi Howard

Faith in Family / Although Lawson is officially on tour and working on her first album, she said her real job is wife to her husband of 11 years, Rick, and mother to Xander, 3,

I’ve really concentrated on doing that and trying to enjoy every part of it.”

MeDina Hicks, neighbor and family friend to the Lawson family, said there is no doubt in her mind that Lawson will stay grounded and focused throughout her journey. There will be no diva-like tendencies, Hicks insists, and Lawson will stay true to who she is—a wife and mother with the same struggles and obstacles as the rest of them. “She is truly who she looks like she is,” said Hicks, who lives two houses down from the Lawsons. “Just because she won doesn’t mean she’s all of the sudden this big superstar. Nothing has changed for her except her job.”

As for Lawson, there’s no question in her mind that she has exactly what it takes to balance life as a recording artist and as an involved parent. “Ultimately, I think being a parent, it’s your responsibility to be an example for your children,” she said. “I can’t be a good example for them if I were to go off and all of the sudden fly off the coop as far as stardom goes. They wouldn’t become the kinds of kids I want them to be.” Lawson said she and her husband are working to raise their boys to be wellrounded contributing members of society, and they’re doing so by a technique they call “team parenting.” The two work as a team to take care of the house and the kids, so Lawson’s weeks on the road are sometimes difficult, but nothing the family can’t handle.

Lawson said the two have always owned their own businesses—Rick owns a roofing and contracting business and Melissa flips houses—so they’re used to splitting household duties and parenting. “There’ve been a lot of times where he’d be the one to stay at home while it’s my season of business, and I’d stay at home when it’s his season of business,” Lawson said. “We’ve always done that back and forth. It’s definitely stressful. I don’t know what people think out there … maybe they think it’s like a fan-

tasy world where everything is perfect and golden and everything is taken care of and money is coming out our ears. It’s really none of these things. It’s still 100 percent reality and, if anything, it’s harder than when I left. This is where the hard work starts and where the real sacrifice begins.”

Leigh Ann Davis, a close personal friend of Lawson’s and fellow member of the Pantego Bible Church praise team, said Lawson is always open and honest about struggles within her family life. “One thing I like about [Lawson] is that we all have our weaknesses as mothers and she’s open to talking about the issues,” she said. “That’s one thing that drew me to her—we can be real about the struggles with our kids.” Davis, who called Lawson a true jewel of a person, said she has learned by watching Lawson that you can’t make judgments based on perceived ideas of what women should or shouldn’t do. “It’s really made me more empowered, to feel OK about not being perfect as a mom.”

Davis said Lawson’s story speaks to mothers everywhere and should encourage them to enjoy the gifts they’ve been given. “Don’t let it go just because you’re a mom,” Davis said. “Don’t let the daily things you need to do as a mom destroy your passion for whatever it is that you do. That has really impacted me … it really has made a difference.”

Davis said the one thing people should know is that Lawson really is just a normal wife and mother trying to live her dream. “The best thing we can learn from Melissa’s life is that she’s not perfect and that’s totally fine, and to shine where you can shine—whether it’s your music or it’s being a mom, find that place and do it with all your heart.”

Living her Dream

Indeed, her career is on the verge of something spectacular, but as Lawson quotes her producer John Rich, “This is where the rubber meets the road.” With the 2008 Nashville Star Tour well underway, Lawson certainly has her work cut out for her. Aside from getting home to her family between concert dates, she’s spending a lot of time in the studio preparing for her album release. “Everyone is asking about the album,” Lawson said. “Hopefully we’ll have it out after the first of the year, and I’m excited about that because as important as Nashville Star is because it’s what got me here, the true test is when you get into recording an album that is not at all related [to the show] … competing against Faith Hill, Sara Evans, Martina McBride and all these great artists who are also releasing albums.” Lawson said she is counting on the fan base that she built during the show to come into play when her album is released. “Hopefully, they’ll continue to

support me after the fact,” she said.

Another important aspect to her future success is support from the radio stations, which Lawson said she hopes will continue to play her hit single. “You know, there are some radio stations that didn’t support the show,” she said. “They didn’t like it because it wasn’t straight-up country, and being a country artist, that’s a hard balance because we wanted to do straight-up country but there were moments when that wasn’t available to us.” It’s become somewhat of a catch-22, Lawson said, because there are instances in which radio executives and personalities say they love the song, yet because they don’t support the context of Nashville Star, they don’t want to play Lawson’s single. “It really all boils down to the fans and radio,” she said. “If [the radio] isn’t playing it, the fans don’t hear it.”

The stations out there that aren’t playing her music will likely get a pleasant surprise with the release of her upcom-

ing album, most of which Lawson is writing herself or collaborating on with other musicians and songwriters; she promises to give fans an album that will speak directly to them. “Ultimately, I want to have things [on the album] about my life and things I have experienced … even things I haven’t experienced that my friends have experienced and have come through—just stuff that’s relatable,” she said. “There’s so much stuff out there that’s great radio play and they’re fantastic songs, but they don’t speak to my heart.” Lawson said that when people turn on their radios and hear her music, she wants it to be a life-changing moment for them in an everyday kind of way. And, as far as singing the typical country songs about the cheatin’ and the drinkin’ and the leavin’, Lawson says you won’t hear those lyrics in her music—at least not like you might expect. “There’s a fine line in there,” she said. “I don’t mind singing about that kind of stuff, but I’m not going to sing about me doing it.”

When it comes down to it, Lawson says she intends to keep balance in her life with a lot of prayer and a lot of communication, and that her faith will be a huge factor in her future success. “Without my faith, I wouldn’t be sitting here,” Lawson said. “I don’t believe God makes any mistakes, and I think everything is thrown at you for a reason.” She says that if this opportunity had come to her 10 years ago, she wouldn’t have been ready for it, and that the show has been a huge growth process for her. “I feel like it added to me rather than changed me,” she said.

As Lawson prepares for what lies ahead, she says she’s taking one day at a time. Five years from now she hopes to be “Faith Hill famous,” but for now, she says every small step takes her one step closer. She says she just feels like a normal woman who has been presented with a one-of-akind opportunity, but those who know her aren’t fooled— the modest Lawson may be an everyday kind of gal, but her immense talent and her undeniable determination are not to be overlooked. Still, she credits God and those around her for her success thus far and says her best advice is to always be yourself and dream big. “It’s exciting to me that God has given me a platform to inspire other people to do things to change their lives,” she says with a smile so genuine you know it’s straight from the heart. “I’m not any different than any of them. I just happened to get an open door, and I walked through it.” fw

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After m Any months in the m Aking, All of the i ’s Are dotted A nd the t’s crossed on this ye Ar’s intric Ate And timeless Fort Worth, texas m AgA zine dre A m home— A c Ase-inpoint exempl Ar of the sort of inspired Architecture th At c An hAppen when bright ide As surge A nd cre Ative minds merge.

Southlake Splendor

WWhat began as a vision is now a dream: The welcome mat is out at this year’s incredible home! Be our guest as Dani Robertson of Lighthouse Furniture & Design Center and Bill Jefferies of Jefferies Custom Homes—two of the slew of local folks who provided their time and talents to this year’s worthy venture—take us on an up-close-and-personal VIP tour of this Southlake splendor. But don’t just take our word for it: Head out to 900 Los Altos in Southlake today and see this year’s dreamy domicile for yourself! The icing on the cake: all proceeds benefit the Colleyville Woman’s Club, whose mission is to serve its community through philanthropic services. So bring a friend—or grab a group!— and snag your in-person-tour tickets while the getting’s good.

IIts curb-appealing veneer clad in East Texas stone and its circle driveway and sidewalk stained with a rock-salt finish that summons the look of old-world concrete, this Tuscan farmhouse invokes a sprawling, countryside-esque feel, said Bill Jefferies, owner of Jefferies Custom Homes, who built this amazing abode. “When you walk up to the home, you feel like you’re heading into a town square,” he said. “And it’s on a hill, which gives it a really nice presence.” Jefferies also noted that he and his team kept the architecture as authentic as possible, with “some modifications” to steep it in up-to-the-minute innovation.

The Artfully Crafted Interior-

The exterior stone (provided by McLaughlin Supply) is warm and earth-toned and furthers the bucolic aspect, he continued. “It’s a deep, dark yellow and always reminds me of the Tuscan sun,” he said. “The entire façade goes really well with the multicolored barrel roof (provided by Griffith Roofing) and the landscaping (provided by Guardado Landscaping). It pulls all the colors together— those in the stone, the barrel tile, and the stucco. It makes a really nice, warm impression.”

Inside, other architectural details include a coffered stained ceiling and a reclaimed/resurfaced wood floor in the study (installed by Imperial Floor Installation), imparting a livable, rough-hewn aesthetic that marries well with the stately motif. That same flooring also is underfoot in the formal dining and great rooms.

The stained fireplace in the master suite matches the ceiling beams, and the entire dwelling has wood windows with interior casings (provided by OmniView Window & Door). Also, the sprayfoam insulation in the walls and ceilings (provided by Franklin’s Foam and Fiberglass Insulation) will keep the house ultra-tight and pin-drop quiet, Jefferies explained.

And for all you audio buffs: The media room, conveniently located next to the kitchen, is outfitted with a Dolby digital surround-

Delivering

TAke THe TOUR

who dId the work

Jeffer I es c ustom h omes

A A ron o rn A mentA l Iron works

3501 Locke Ave.

Fort Worth, t ex A s 76107

817.731.9281

AA ronorn A mentAL .com

AGs t urf fA rms

P.o. Box 723

co LL insvi LL e, t ex A s 76233

940.437.2324

BAckyA rd Bu I ld I n Gs A nd more

9324 s . Free WAy Fort Worth, t ex A s 76140

817.665.0924

BAckyA rd B ui L dings.com

Bmc w est

104 e h urst B Lvd., hW y 10

h urst, t ex A s 76053

817.282.2519

Bmc W est.com

c h A n GI n G c olor

2504 cA rson s t.

hALtom c ity, t ex A s 76028

817.759.2504

ch A ngingco Lor P onds.com

dAv I d r eyes c onstruct I on 9660 oL ivi A d rive Fort Worth, t ex A s 76108

817.360.4346

d ur A n G o d oors

4015 W. v ickery B Lvd. Fort Worth, t ex A s 76107

817.368.5709

dur A ngodoors.com

dwr c ontr Actors

5401 WichitA s t. Fort Worth, t ex A s 76119

817.535.3629

dW rcontr Actors.com

f erG uson BAth, kI tchen A nd

lIG ht I n G GA llery 3433 West 7th s t. Fort Worth, t ex A s 76107

817.348.8489 Ferguson.com

f loor c over I n G e nterpr I ses

2865 e xch A nge B Lvd. south LA ke, t ex A s 76092 817.442.8000 F ced FW.com

f r A nkl I n’s foA m A nd fIB erG l A ss Insul At I on 201 n W 26th s t. Fort Worth, t ex A s 76164

817.831.1240 Fr A nk L in F oA m.com

Gr I ff I th roof I n G 1210 Westmont d rive south LA ke, t ex A s 76092

817.800.4802

GuA rdA do lA ndsc A p I n G 3228 A LtA mere Fort Worth, t ex A s 76116

817.732.3434

guA rdA do LA ndsc AP ing.net

hAwk s ecur I ty 14500 t rinity B Lvd., s te. 100 Fort Worth, t ex A s 76155 h AW ksecurity.com

Imper IA l f loor InstA ll At I on 8901 W. Free WAy, s te. 113 Fort Worth, t ex A s 76116 817.244.1552

Intercer A m I c mA r B le c ollect I on 2100 hA nd L ey e dervi LL e roA d Fort Worth, t ex A s 76133 817.589.6032 imcstone.com

Intercer A m I c tI le & s tone GA llery 3618 Air P ort Free WAy, s te. A Fort Worth, t ex A s 76117

817.834.8491 intercer A mic.com

317 Ar B or L A ne hAs L et, t ex A s 76052

817.480.2468 je FFeriescustomhomes.com

J r d es IG ns 1309 j udge B LA nd roA d roA noke, t ex A s 76262 817.825.1731

l ee lIG ht I n G 5501 co LL eyvi LL e B Lvd. co LL eyvi LL e, t ex A s 76034

817.893.1150 L ee L ighting.com

lIG hthouse f urn I ture 2201 t in to P roA d We Ather F ord, t ex A s 817.594.6873 L ighthouse Furniture.net

loveless Gutters P.o. Box 905 co LL eyvi LL e, t ex A s 76034

817.521.8164 Love L essgutters.com

o dyssey e lectr I c, llc 8233 m id- c ities B Lvd., s te. B n orth r ich LA nd h i LL s, t ex A s 76180

817.897.7608 odysseye L ectric AL .com

omn IvI ew wI ndow & d oor 9657 cA mP BoW ie B Lvd. West Fort Worth, t ex A s 76116

817.334.0707

overhe A d d oor c ompA ny of fort worth 840 south WAy c irc L e Fort Worth, t ex A s 76115

817.921.3641 ohd FW.com

pA ss I on lIG ht I n G

1649 W. n orth W est hW y. g r AP evine, t ex A s 76051

817.310.3261 PA ssion L ighting.com

p ros c A pes/mosqu I to mI st I n G s ystem n orth r ich LA nd h i LL s 817.838.LAW n Prosc AP es. B iz

p urye A r c ustom p ools 2200 cA ntre LL sA nsom roA d Fort Worth, t ex A s 76131

817.306.5169 P urye A r P oo L s.com

rA ndy w h I te t e A m 1560 e south LA ke B Lvd., s te. 200 south LA ke, t ex A s 76092

817.442.0173 r A ndy W hite.com

rI ck’s hA rdwA re 1102 e dALLA s roA d, s te. 250 g r AP evine, t ex A s 76051

817.488.0036 ricksh A rdWA re.com

t he kI tchen s ource 3116 W. 6th s t., s te. 101 Fort Worth, t ex A s 76107 817.731.4299 thekitchensource.net

tI le, mA r B le & Gr A n I te works

g r A nite s hoW room: 7201 W. v ickery B Lvd. Fort Worth, t ex A s 76116

s e L ection c enter: 4000 W. v ickery B Lvd. Fort Worth, t ex A s 76107 817.731.1925

u n I versA l s ystems 2960 Wes L ey WAy Fort Worth, t ex A s 76118 817.589.9966 uni-sys.com

yA rd Art pAt I o & fI repl Ace 6407 co LL eyvi LL e B Lvd. co LL eyvi LL e, t ex A s 76034 817.421.2414 myyA rdA rt.com

sound system, a Marantz audio/ video receiver and Tannoy dual concentric home theater speakers.

In an interesting twist, Jefferies said he actually conceived of the blueprints a full two years before he was asked to participate in the Dream Home project. “I was unable to find a place where I wanted to build it,” he recalled of the fruitless search for the right site. “When I got together with Publisher Hal Brown and Fort Worth, Texas magazine, I knew that this lot was perfect for the house. It was almost as if it was meant to be.”

The whole process, Jefferies said, was well worth the wait. “I love building homes,” he said, “and I thought it would be neat to be involved with the magazine and work together with suppliers and designers to come up with a unique product that we’d be proud of.”

the crowd-Pleasing design

schematic

The alchemy of this Southlake show-stopper is apparent in the seamless way each meticulously placed element plays off the next to forge a memorable mix of style and substance. The enchanting mélange begins with the distinctive color palette featuring several sumptuous desert hues—the walls are cloaked in rich browns, rusts, reds, greens and golds— an amalgam that sets the tone for the entire two-story residence and conjures an air that’s at once aristocratic and convivial.

Painted by JR Designs, the combination enlivens the Southlake shelter with a straightfrom-Tuscany ambiance while complementing the homey hacienda-themed milieu, said Lighthouse Furniture’s Dani Robertson, who spearheaded the domicile-wide design.

“The house evokes a genuine elegant-ranch feel,” she noted. All told, the whole-house layout leaves nary a stone unturned, Robertson said. “The floor plan is excellent. The use of space is excellent. There’s no wasted space, but yet it’s still very roomy,” she said. “It’s truly spectacular.”

The CrowdPleasing Design Schematic

A Peek at a Few of the Elegant Elements, Generously Provided by a Hand-Picked Lineup of Local Vendors

Aaron Ornamental Iron Works: provided the interior iron railing, exterior iron fence and the automatic driveway gate.

Changing Color: provided the aquascape design in the frontyard.

Durango Doors: supplied the custom-designed, hand-forged, wroughtiron entry door and wine gates.

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and Lighting Gallery: supplied the plumbing fixtures and appliances.

Floor Covering Enterprises: provided all the carpeting throughout the Dream Home.

Franklin’s Foam and Fiberglass Insulation: supplied the spray-foam insulation, which creates a tightlysealed thermal envelope.

Griffith Roofing: supplied the Monier concrete barrel-tile roof.

Guardado Landscaping: supplied the Texas-hearty landscape, including Bermuda grass, an array of foliage, oak and Italian cypress trees, wax and crape myrtles, rosemary, salvia and other gorgeous, site-appropriate greenery.

Hawk Security, an Interface Company: provided the home security system.

Interceramic Marble Collection: provided the marble and granite slabs.

Interceramic Tile & Stone Gallery: supplied the tile and stone.

Imperial Floor Installation: supplied and installed reclaimed pine for flooring throughout the home.

Jefferies Custom Homes: built the Fort Worth, Texas magazine 2008 Dream Home.

JR Designs: provided faux finish painting throughout the entire home.

Lee Lighting: supplied all of the interior lighting.

Lighthouse Furniture & Design Center: provided furnishings, décor and accessories.

l oveless g utters: installed a seamless half-round gutter system on the front of the house that looks like aged copper, according to owner Danny Loveless.

o mni v iew w indow & Door: supplied the wood-clad windows and doors.

o verhead Door c ompany of fort worth: provided the cedar-covered garage doors and installed the fireplaces.

Proscapes: provided the backyard mosquito misting system.

p uryear c ustom p ools: did the pool, all the decking and the cap over the existing concrete on the back patio, according to company VP

Jennifer Satterwhite. Features include six deck jets, two sheer descents, flagstone beach entry, in-pool tequila table, mauve Stonescapes plaster, and a raised spa encircled by a patio.

r ick’s h ardware and Decorative p lumbing: supplied all the door hardware, cabinet hardware, bath accessories (towel bars, towel rings, and paper holders) and the solid closet rods throughout the house.

The k itchen Source: provided the kitchen and butler’s pantry cabinetry and designed the total layout to ensure functionality and to maximize storage space and work flow, including selecting the Wolf and SubZero products.

Tile, m arble and g ranite works: fabricated and installed the raw materials provided by Interceramic Marble Collection, according to TMGW’s VP Jarrett Vamvakidis.

u niversal Systems: did the media room and supplied the 52-inch Sony Bravia high-definition LCD TV in the great room, which is positioned on a floating wall mount.

yard a rt patio and f ireplace: provided all of the outdoor furniture.

TTalk about making a grand entrance! The gracious Tuscan-style entry door (provided by Durango Doors), opens into a spacious formal foyer featuring a sweeping curved staircase ornamented by gorgeous iron work and rustic posts (provided by Aaron Ornamental Iron Works). The lofty ceilings and abundant windows flood the sunny space with natural illu-

mination—quite a prophetic indication of the luminous vistas yet to come in this trove of sensory splendors. Through a graceful archway is the great roomkitchen-breakfast nook combination, an expansive three-zone arrangement that mirrors the modern homeowner’s desire for an entertainment-focused, familyfriendly eat-play-live area.

FOYER

UUp the stairs from the foyer, a landing at the mid-point gives rise to the secluded study, which will provide the user a much-needed peace-and-quiet-infused respite from the hubbub of the day. “The study is very much a ‘man’s room,’” said Lighthouse Furniture’s Dani Robertson, who spearheaded the domicile-wide design. “The walls are paneled halfway

up and then fauxed in zebra.” There also are ample bookcases, a couch, ranch-style leather chairs, a desk, a custom-made fireplace surround and a generous cache of cabinetry. And in a testament to the attention to detail evident throughout this well-planned home, the drapes are leather!

LLeft of the foyer, the well-appointed formal dining room will no doubt play host to many a Thanksgiving feast, as well as any other dressed-up occasion where the homeowners want to entertain visitors in style. And adding an extra splash of vintage appeal: Right off the dining area is a wine room, which is the ideal spot to store vinos and—thanks to the climate-

controlled wine fridge—maintain them at a constant just-right temperature and humidity level. The glass door on the cooler also has UV protection to protect the precious liquid cargo from the sun’s flavor-damaging rays.

FORMAL DINING ROOM

OOff the media room is a guest room, which is even larger than the upstairs suite, Robertson noted. Located in easy proximity to the hub of activity, it will enable visitors to socialize with their hosts while still affording them a semblance of privacy and away-from-it-all amenities. Also nearby is a powder room and laundry area.

AAnd speaking of entertainment, this home definitely answers the call with its spacious state-of-the-art Sangria-colored media room (provided by Universal Systems): complete with a 106-inch cinema screen; 7.1 Dolby digital surroundsound system, with a Marantz audio/ video receiver; Tannoy dual concentric home theater speakers; DVD storage;

buffet-type serving area; and theaterstyle furniture, featuring a leather sofa, ottoman and chairs that provide “comfortable, plush, deep seating,” Robertson said. Located down the hall from the kitchen, it’s also accessible from the second floor. Just take the back stairwell and turn to your left.

MEDIA ROOM

TThis open-concept, uber-modern, Kitchen Source-designed culinary space is the true heart and soul of the 6,100-square-foot abode, which will make for food and fun at its finest. “The layout will be pleasing to the cook,” Robertson noted, providing the gourmand close-at-hand access to all necessities while allowing for conversation and interaction with friends and family who are congregating at the multifunctional island,

relaxing by the floor-to-ceiling rock fireplace in the living room or enjoying a freshly prepped meal at the breakfast table. Notable components: 48-inch Wolf range; separate SubZero refrigerator and freezer; hammered-copper, apron-front sink (provided by Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and Lighting Gallery); undercounter fridge drawers; and Wood-Mode custom cabinets (provided by The Kitchen Source), to name a few.

KITCHEN

AA large, oversized hacienda-styled leather and fabric sofa, which seats seven to eight people, Robertson said, is sure to welcome guests to the heart of the home. Beautiful wood built-ins, a stone fireplace, customcrafted window treatments, ample seating, a 52-inch Sony Bravia high-definition LCD TV (provided by Universal Systems), and a leopard chair and ottoman, are sure to make guests wish this was their

home. The entire light-and-airy expanse overlooks the infinity-edge pool—the flagstone beach entry, two sheer descents and six deck jets make this azure oasis even more enticing—where swimmers and sun worshippers most certainly will make waves season after season. The waterscape (provided by Puryear Custom Pools) also includes a raised spa surrounded by a patio and even includes an in-pool tequila table.

LIVING ROOM

AAfter their day finally wraps and they’re ready to escape into the lap of pure luxury, the owners can summon their inner ohm and unwind in their first-floor master suite and complementary bathroom, which channels the home’s ranch-inspired warmth juxtaposed with emphatic details that bespeak its Mediterranean roots. “The master bedroom has a fireplace,

cedar beams and two large iron chandeliers, ornamented with just a few crystals to give it a touch of elegance mixed with the rustic tone,” Robertson said. “It makes for a very unique, comfortable, beautiful style.” The centerpiece of this tucked-away retreat is the cush 9-foot-tall, custommade hacienda bed, certain to usher in a restful slumber.

MASTER SUITE

TThis spacious bath features such accoutrements as a dual-access walk-in shower, his-and-hers vanities, a walk-in closet with built-in dressers and full-length mirrors, a corner fireplace, a private water closet and negative-edge Kohler tub with air jets for “total relaxation and aromatherapy,” Robertson noted. And the corner fireplace isn’t the only amenity warm-

ing up this oversized space. Robertson personalized the master bath by carrying through the same décor as the master bedroom, adding a custom-made ottoman that mimics the draperies and bedding of its adjoining bedroom.

MASTER BATH

TTo the right of the grand stairway is what Robertson refers to as the girl’s bedroom—a “vintage hacienda”-styled space that boasts an extra-special surprise element, she noted: a queen-size bed with 8-foot-tall iron gates that serve as the headboard. The princess who claims this space as her living quarters will no doubt enjoy her velvet chair-and-a-half and her private sitting area.

GIRL’S ROOM

CContinuing down the hallway, where a sitting area beckons guests to cozy up with a book and bask in the home’s visitors-are-welcome vibe, is one of the two guest rooms—a very private, very welcoming “modern-hacienda”-styled space that is sure to make anyone lucky enough to stay there feel right at home. This

guest room provides a Zen-like atmosphere with its modest browns, tans and spark of lime green. With a private seating area, plush queen-size bed, natural wood writing desk and full-length dressing mirror, not to mention its eccentric twig lamps, this space is sure to become a getaway for any guest.

UPSTAIRS GUEST ROOM

EEasily accessible from the formal dining room, an arched opening with a stunning iron gate (provided by Durango Doors and designed by Dani Robertson) leads guests into the regal wine room—a spot where the homeowners can stow their vinos in the generously apportioned cabinetry and access them easily when the fiesta is in full swing. With its well-

planned layout, the wine room leads to the private outdoor wine-tasting patio shrouded by a cedar arbor for sun-protecting shade, Robertson said—which is sure to set any sommelier’s heart aflame and allow the party to move fluidly from the indoors to the out. (Syrah under the stars, anyone?)

wine room

TThis room, deemed the boy’s bedroom by the designer, sports a definite “ranch flair,” Robertson said, noting its customcrafted drapes and queen-size bedding. From the old wood armoire with handscraped paint to the cowhide chair, this hacienda-ranch room, dressed in browns, tans and greens, will no doubt be the pride of the young man who hangs his hat there.

BOY’S ROOM

TThe outdoor furnishings (provided by Yard Art Patio and Fireplace) make alfresco get-togethers a breeze, transforming the patio areas into exterior extensions of the interior living zones. And what Dream Home would be complete without an outdoor kitchen? This one comes complete with an all-weather grill, warming drawer, serving area and wood-burning fireplace.

And speaking of the backyard (provided by Guardado Landscaping): The lush

Bermuda grass feels like carpet underfoot, and the indigenous plantings include wax and crape myrtles and oaks that will grow to a lofty—and shade-providing—100 feet. Italian cypress trees are a nod to the home’s Tuscan heritage, while the gardener’s paradise includes a perennial mix of such hearty growers as rosemary and colorful salvia. A collection of covered porches also dots the Dream Home’s perimeter and provides the idyllic setting for lazing away the day in sheltered repose.

HHomeowners can be assured that guests will enjoy their stay with the home’s festive game room, complete with a shuffle board table and its very own kitchen. Adding elegance to this party room, Juperana Andes Granite counters (provided by Tile, Marble and Granite Works) create movement in the kitchen, which is equipped with ample storage, a buffet-type serving area, sink, ice maker and refrigerator.

Game room

powder room

CConveniently located off the living room, this quaint powder room has a large presence. With metallic-copper faux finish on the walls, a copper sink with a blow-torch finish, a black commode and a green Patina-finished mirror specifically chosen for this small space, guests are sure to marvel at this masterpiece.

The Ul T ima T e Tailga T e Par T y

18th a nnual h appy h ill Farm Benefit

Hosted by Hillary & Doug Jennings

Come out to the Ultimate Tailgate Party and enjoy fine tailgate cuisine cooked on location—on the grill—by some of Fort Worth’s most renowned chefs, complemented by an open bar.

What: TCU vs. UTAH Under the Big Tent on Two Giant Go-Vision Big Screens

Where: TCU Amon Carter Stadium Parking Lot 1 (behind score board)

When: Thursday, November 6

Time: 6 P.M. (Kick-off 7 P.M.)

Dress: Tailgate Casual

e ntry: $75 per person

Preferred Tables of 10: $1000/$2500/$5000

Live and Silent Auction

l ead Chef, Jon Bonnell

Participating restaurants include:

Bonnell’s Fine Texas Cuisine, Cafe Aspen, Chef Tom’s Ultimate Cuisine, Del Frisco’s, Lambert’s Restaurant, Michael’s Restaurant & Ancho Chile Bar, and Wilson’s Barbecue

Harvest Landscape offers a full range of services for residential and commercial customers, including:

Lawn Design and Installation

Lawn Maintenance

Pool Design and Construction

Waterfalls and Water Features

Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor Kitchens

Gazebos and Arbors

Patios and Decks

Seasonal Flower Displays

Sprinkler Systems and Repairs

Stone Retaining Walls

Exterior Lighting

Fertilization and Weed Control

Bobby Bragan: A life built on 60 years of baseball and devotion to others

Mr. Baseball at Home Plate

“I am only a channel for Bobby’s philosophy and love for others. In that way, his legacy continues to live through me and all those he has touched.”

“Mr. Baseball”

is how he is affectionately known to those in Fort Worth, but Bobby Bragan’s life outside the baseball stadium is just as much a part of his legacy. His success in baseball facilitated a six-decade philanthropic journey of giving back to his community.

TAKING THE FIELD

Born in a white, two-story house with a tin roof in Birmingham, Ala., Bragan was strongly encouraged to play baseball by his father. Shaded by giant peach trees, Bragan and his seven brothers practiced in the backyard during warm summer days. It was there that his love for baseball was born.

Bragan began his professional baseball career in 1937 with Panama City and was then sold to Philadelphia. After playing shortstop for the Phillies from 1940-1942, he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers as a backup catcher. Playing for Brooklyn was a dream-come-true for Bragan. “In

—Maury Wills, former Major League shortstop.

Brooklyn, if you wore a Dodger’s uniform, you could do no wrong— everyone loved you,” Bragan said about that magical time in baseball. There he met his mentor and greatest influence, Branch Rickey. Responsible for creating Dodgertown and breaking the color line in baseball by playing Jackie Robinson in 1947, Rickey turned Bragan’s life upside down. Bragan admits that he was one of several players who asked to be traded when Robinson was introduced to the team. Initially, Bragan would not even sit in the same dining car with Robinson. But by the second road trip, Bragan said team members “were all fighting to sit next to him.” “He was our best player,” Bragan recalled. “He had character and intelligence; he was just a wonderful man.” Rickey died in 1963 and, during his funeral, Robinson and Bragan sat side by side in the second pew to pay their respects to the man who had changed their lives and awarded

them unprecedented opportunities.

“My proudest moment in baseball was in 1947, Brooklyn Dodgers and the New York Yankees, Game 6 of the World Series,” Bragan recalled. “I brought my parents up to see the game. The first five games I had not been to bat, but in the sixth game, I was called up to pinch hit. I doubled and got on base. We won that game, and my play contributed to that. Unfortunately, my parents had taken a restroom break and missed it. Oh well, nothing’s perfect,” Bragan said, shrugging with a smile.

FROM THE DUGOUT

In 1948, Bragan began the next chapter of his career by moving to Fort Worth to manage the Fort Worth Cats professional baseball team. “My playing was over. I was No. 24 on a 25-man roster, and when Rickey asked me to move to Fort Worth, I said sure!” Bragan said. “Not only did I like the team,

but I loved the city.” Bragan went on to manage teams in the majors including the Pittsburgh Pirates, Cleveland Indians and the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves. In his lengthy career, he managed many such greats as Roberto Clemente, Maury Wills, Dick Williams and Hank Aaron.

Bragan’s official title may have been manager, but throughout the years, his role was mentor to many players and managers. Dick Williams, a Hall of Fame manager, remembers how Bragan shaped his life back in ’49 when he played for the Cats. “If any of his players would go to church with him on Sunday, he would buy [them] breakfast,” Williams said. “We were kids without money. I think Bobby knew we were coming for the food as well as the religion.” When Williams was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2007, he named Bragan as his mentor and gave him credit for his success.

Another life touched by Bragan was that of Maury Wills, former

Major League shortstop who became famous for beating Ty Cobb’s record of stealing bases. In fact, Wills attributes all of his success to Bragan. For eight years, Wills had been playing minor league baseball—that was until Bragan became his coach. Bragan watched Wills closely and discovered that he was afraid of the curve ball. “Now, no one likes to be told they’re afraid of something,” Wills said, laughing. “But I listened to him. He taught me how to be a switch hitter and how to bunt. In the next game, I got three hits. Then, after a year’s time, Bobby recommended me to the Dodgers. On the strength of that recommendation, they brought me on. Two years later, I was on the All Star Team—all because of Bobby.” Baseball advice wasn’t the only thing Bragan passed on to Wills. Reaching out and helping others is something Wills witnessed Bragan do over and over again. Wills has since created and been involved in several charitable organizations, including The Knot Hole Gang, an

organization sponsored by Wills that allows more than 600 children, who wouldn’t be able to attend otherwise, to participate in a baseball camp in North Dakota. The idea for the organization was inspired by the old days, when kids who couldn’t afford to get into baseball games stood on crates to watch through fence knot holes. “Helping others rubbed off on me from Bobby,” Wills confessed. “I am only a channel for Bobby’s philosophy and love for others. In that way, his legacy continues to live through me and all those he has touched.”

Bragan’s career as manager of various major league teams continued for another 18 years. Continually stealing headlines and entertaining fans with his high-spirited behavior, Bragan applied creative tactics to convey his message to the umpires. Sit-down strikes on the baseball diamond, sending in batboys to coach third base, and presenting the umpires with a seeingeye dog are among his most famous stunts over the years. “It was my

way of getting back at the umpires,” he said, laughing. “I didn’t want to use profanity or call them names, so I resorted to other means.”

In 2005 at LaGrave Field, Bragan, 87, made headlines again for being the oldest individual to serve as manager in a professional game. Under a one-day contract with the Fort Worth Cats, he surpassed Hall of Fame manager Connie Mack’s record of being the oldest man ever to manage a professional baseball team by nine days. Ironically, that same night he also made history for being the oldest manager to be ejected from a professional game due to his world-class, umpire-pestering ways.

HOME PLATE

Bragan, who came to Fort Worth 60 years ago to manage the Cats, now calls the city home and is dedicated to contributing locally to the game of baseball and to childhood education.

The Cats have been a part of Bragan’s life since 1948, and he still regularly visits with the players and coaches. Jim Dittrich, president for the Cats, remembers meeting Bragan for the first time. “Bobby sent me a letter on a Thursday asking me to stop by and visit him if I was ever in town,” Dittrich recalled of a time when he aspired to be a part of major league baseball. “I drove through the night and met him on Friday to let him know that I was serious about baseball.” Dittrich took a position as Bragan’s assistant in 1974. “I typed his letters and made his coffee,” he said. “It was just the two of us, and we became really close during that time.” It was years later that Bragan chose Dittrich to fill the position of president for the Fort Worth team.

Although several decades separate the current Cats team and the local legend, the young Cats players have respect for Bragan and his career. Handing out lucky trinkets for the players’ pockets, Bragan motivates the Cats before their games. Lee Gwaltney, a current pitcher for the Cats, is familiar with Bragan’s accomplishments and speaks highly of the baseball great. “His love for

the game is still as strong as when he was my age,” Gwaltney said. “He genuinely cares about the game of baseball.” Gwaltney, who has played for Philadelphia, the Cubs, and the Padres, and has been with the Cats for the last two seasons, said he loves playing for the Fort Worth team. “The Cats are not affiliated with major league baseball, so basically everyone is playing for the love of the game,” he said. “There’s no room for prima donnas on the team. It’s very refreshing.”

Over the years, Bragan has invited former baseball greats to golf tournament fundraisers to raise money for local charities. In 1991, Bragan began his own organization, the Bobby Bragan Youth Foundation (BBYF). Its main purpose is to encourage children to stay in school by awarding local eighth-grade students with scholarships to college. Bragan’s reasoning behind the age choice is that early recognition will motivate them to do well throughout high school. BBYF has awarded over $1 million in scholarships to

over 400 students. Bragan quotes an anonymous poet who inspired the idea for the foundation: “A hundred years from now, it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove. … But the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.”

The foundation has partnered with the Fort Worth Cats to host a BBYF Night at LaGrave Field, where a large percentage of ticket proceeds are donated to the foundation. Over 5,000 people attended the event this year to pay tribute to Bragan and his efforts with the foundation. Additionally, the foundation throws an annual gala, which serves as its greatest source of revenue. During the 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award Gala on Nov. 18, which will be held at the Fort Worth Convention Center, the foundation will honor Tom Grieve, a former general manager and player for the Texas Rangers. Through funds generated by the event’s live and silent auctions, 36 deserving eighth-grade students

PavingUniqueDesigns Unique

will be awarded $2,500 scholarships to the college of their choice.

On Nov. 13, Bragan is scheduled to receive the Texas Hero Award, which is presented by the Volunteers of America Texas. Each year, the award is given to an individual who makes an extraordinary impact on the community. Honorary chairs for the 2008 Hero Award luncheon are Texas Rangers General Manager Nolan Ryan and Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief.

When you first meet this local legend, who turned 91 years young on Oct. 30, the encounter is immediately easy and familiar. When you shake his hand and receive that shining smile, you experience the history of baseball in the flesh. And like baseball, Bragan is not regulated by time; he continues to challenge limits just as he challenged the umpires all those years ago.

For more info. on the Bobby Bragan Youth Foundation, contact Janet Cooper at 817.870.2300 or e-mail at bbyf@charternet.com. fw

Dr. Heidi A. Jordan and Dr. James D. Mackey provide comprehensive cancer care in a warm, home-like environment. Services that are provided include:

~ On-site Chemotherapy Treatment

Comprehensive Patient Care

~ On-site Therapy Dog – Lucy

~ ACS Resource Library

Family Support

~ Nutrition Therapy

Proud Presenting Sponsor of the Northern Tarrant County Relay For Life.

Phone: 817-416-0202 Fax: 817-886-2603

www.southlakeoncology.com

Only 1800 dentists in the nation have Mastership Credentials from the Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. Michael Mabry is one of them.

The art and science of Dentistry is constantly evolving, with the introduction of hundreds of new technologies and procedures. Trust your dental health to a professional who has an ongoing commitment to provide his patients with quality care through continuing education.

Michael Mabry, D.D.S., M.A.G.D.

Voted Top Dentist 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008

817-329-6677

fort worth’s social scene

WorthFraming [ [

LEADING LADIES

SafeHaven sponsors and honorees, along with luncheon guest speaker Patricia Heaton, actress on Everybody Loves Raymond, gathered at Neiman Marcus Fort Worth for the organization’s Legacy of Women Awards VIP Party.

Marjon Zabihi and Patricia Heaton

Gallery ni G ht

Art patrons gathered at various Fort Worth galleries, museums and studios in support of Fall Gallery Night, sponsored by the Fort Worth Art Dealers Association.

1 Linsey Morgan, Enrique Olachea

2 Cindi Holt, Dan Blagg

3 Victoria & Dan Shoemaker

S afeha V en le G acy

SafeHaven sponsors and honorees enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres as part of the organization’s Legacy of Women Awards VIP Party.

1 traci richards, Brook Whitworth

2 ginny tigue, Lee Koch, Leann White

on the trail to a c U re

Saddling up for the Cowtown Ball, guests attended Cowtown Ball’s Leddy’s Ranch Shopping Party downtown, where 10 percent of sales benefited the American Cancer Society.

1 terra Johnson, Crystal Davis

2 george Johnson, Martha Franklin

3 asad Dean, Julie Craine

p

cR y S ta L Hea R t Guest enjoyed entertainment by singer Kenny Loggins during the 15th Annual Crystal Heart Gala, which raised money for a new Huguley Memorial Medical Center Mobile Health Services Bus.

1 dereje & Rose ayo, henry & Linda Cunningham, david & Kecia Maldonado

2 Liz & Kevin homer, Shawna & aaron Moses

3 Laurie Evans, Kenny Loggins, Pete Weber

Opera patrons gathered at Martha Hyder’s home for the Fort Worth Opera VIP Underwriters party, which honored their donors and supporters.

1 darren Woods, Suzy Williams

2 Marianne Williamson, Jennifer Kethley

3 aida de La Cruz, Seth Carico

As part of the TCU KinderFrogs’ Progressive Dinner, party-goers toured three Westover Hills homes, where they indulged in fine cuisine and cocktails, as well as live and silent auctions.

& Loyd Walsh

w INING AND DINING

Papparotti’s Wine Room played host to the Junior League Sustainer’s Fall Social event.

1 Sharon Summers, Peggy Sims, Mary Katherine Anderson

2 Jenny Michero, Vicki Dossey, Cheryl Alexader

PI c KIN’ fo R PREE m IES

March of Dimes supporters gathered at the Third Annual Pickin’ for Preemies event, which was held at Billy Bob’s and featured Texas acoustic music, including 16 well-known country music artists.

1 David & Ashley Williams

2 Andrea hill, teresa hall

3 Melanie Adams, Casey Frague

c ELEBRA t I o N

Junior Woman’s Club members celebrated the new club year with food, fun and shopping at the gift bazaar at the Margaret Meacham Hall, the home of the JWC.

1 Emma treviño, Sydney McCurdy

2 laura Mayberry, bridget Shelton

port·folio

» The 2008

Fort Worth, Texas magazine Dream Home Vendors

What began six months ago with discussions and tentative designs, is now complete. Countless hours of planning and preparation were required to create The 2008 Fort Worth, Texas magazine Dream Home in Southlake’s prestigious Palomar Estates. With the contributions from numerous local companies, dreams became a reality as the magazine completed its annual project. The following pages feature information on the vendors for the 2008 Dream Home.

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and Lighting Gallery

foc US: We supply plumbing, lighting and appliances for many different styles of homes, and we do that while providing excellent service and knowledge of our product to assist homeowners in making the right decision for their dream home! PR of ESSI o NAL m E m BERSHIPS: NARI, GFWHBA, ASID. GREAt ES t PR of ESSI o NAL A c HIEVE m EN t: We are proud to be the largest wholesaler of bath and kitchen products in the country, and we have been providing excellent service for over 50 years! f REE ADVI c E: Look at magazines, Parade Homes, and TV shows for design before you build. Having a good idea of what you like and don’t like ensures that your home will reflect your unique personality

and style. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: Oftentimes, clients have a difficult time coordinating all the different elements of their custom home. Our experienced consultants can help with coordinating their selections so that everything flows together seamlessly. PICTURED: Julie Foy, Amy Moody, Lindsay Cleere, Missy Nash, Jay Eaton, Danielle Mayzner, Lisa Womack, Robin Sinkey, Kimberly Bailey, and Christie Seward. CONTACT INFORMATION: 3433 West 7th St., Fort Worth, Texas 76107. 817.348.8489, Fax 817.348.9030. E-MAIL: Julie.foy@ferguson.com. WEB SITE: ferguson.com.

Guardado Landscaping [

Eloy Guardado ]

CONCENTRATION: Guardado Landscaping is a landscaping and retail garden center. RECOGNITIONS/ AWARDS: 2006 and 2008 Fort Worth, Texas magazine Dream Homes; 2008 Fort Worth, Texas magazine Green Home; 2008 Kaleidoscope Home. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Texas Nursery and Landscape Association, Alabama Nursery Association, Better Business

Bureau, Greater Fort Worth Builder’s Association. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: “Every day there is a professional achievement. The entire staff receives a sense of accomplishment when a project begins and when it is completed. That’s important not only to myself, but to my staff.” PHILOSOPHY: You only get one chance at a first impression—let us design a landscape that they will remember.

FREE ADVICE: The team at Guardado Landscaping believes that a job well done means that promises have been kept and the customer is delighted with their project. Always keep your word and offer your customer the best possible service. There are many landscaping companies to choose from, so be sure that the vendors you choose are licensed, bonded and fully insured. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN

BUILDING A HOME: Not taking the landscaping seriously. Because landscaping is the first thing people see when they drive up to a home, shouldn’t it be the best impression as to what’s inside? CONTACT INFORMATION: 3228 Alta Mere, Fort Worth, Texas 76116. 817.732.3434, Fax 817.732.4545. E-MAIL: sales@guardadolandscaping.net. WEB SITE: guardadolandscaping.net.

IMC-Interceramic Marble Collection

CONCENTRATION: Showcasing the largest selection of unique and exotic slabs of granite, marble, onyx, limestone and Travertine in the United States. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: ASID; NKBA; HBA; NARI; Hispanic Contractors Association of DFW. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: IMC has been proudly dedicated to providing the largest selection of

natural stone, experienced sales staff, and excellent customer service for over 27 years. PHILOSOPHY: Build strong partnerships with our clients; provide them with the best personal service and highest quality material; and to value every person who walks through our doors. FREE ADVICE: Be openminded in your natural stone selection. Don’t be reluctant to use stone that is colorful or that has a lot of movement.

Just like a piece of art, if you are drawn to it, you will always love it. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: Waiting until the end of a project to select their natural stone. Each stone is a piece of nature’s artwork and should be an integral part of the room’s design. JUST SO YOU KNOW: IMC has showrooms in Fort Worth, Dallas, Phoenix and Las Vegas. PICTURED: Porsha

CONTACT INFORMATION: 2100 Handley Ederville Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76133. 817.589.6032, Fax 817.284.8773. E-MAIL: lberta@imcstone.com. WEB SITE: imcstone.com.

The Kitchen Source

co N c EN t RAt I o N: The Kitchen Source specializes in kitchen and bath design and remodeling. As an exclusive dealer for Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry, Sub-Zero/Wolf and Miele appliances, The Kitchen Source can provide cabinets for any part of the home including living spaces, offices and anywhere you can imagine a built-in. The Kitchen Source also can provide countertops, appliances, fixtures, backsplash material, flooring and

lighting to complete any project. RE co GNI t I o NS/AwARDS: Wood-Mode’s Platinum Club (Top 25 Dealers in the Country) and Excellence in Customer Service Award 2007. PR of ESSI o NAL m E m BERSHIPS: National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), Home Builders Association (HBA). PHIL o S o PHY: Our goal is to make sure all of

our clients have an exceptional experience throughout their project; we pride ourselves on customer service. f REE ADVI c E: If you are working on a kitchen or bath, hire a professional. We have certified designers on staff who specialize in the area of kitchen and bath design, and they know all of the ins and outs of making a kitchen truly a functional space for any family’s needs. BIGGES t m IS tAKE PE o PLE m AKE w HEN BUILDING A H om E:

quantity over quality. PI ct URED:

Julie

co N tA ct IN fo R m At I o N: 3116 W. 6th St., Ste. 101, Fort Worth, Texas 76107. 817.731.4299, Fax 817.731.3939. E- m AIL: info@thekitchensource.net. w EB SI t E: thekitchensource.net.

our clients have an exceptional experience throughout their project; we pride ourselves on customer service. free a DVIC e: If you are working on a kitchen or bath, hire a professional. We have certified designers on staff who specialize in the area of kitchen and bath design, and they know all of the ins and outs of making a kitchen truly a functional space for any family’s needs. BIGG est MI sta K e P eo PL e M a K e whe N BUILDING a ho M e: Valuing quantity over quality. PIC t U re D:

C o N ta C t IN for M at I o N: 3116 W. 6th St., Ste. 101, Fort Worth, Texas 76107. 817.731.4299, Fax 817.731.3939. e -M a IL: info@thekitchensource.net. we B s I te: thekitchensource.net.

Puryear Custom Pools

CONCENTRATION: We believe the key to a successful project is having a great relationship with our customers. From initial consultation to months past completion, we continuously contact our customers to give them updates and ask for feedback to make sure everything is 100 percent satisfactory. AWARDS: U.S. Local Business Association’s 2008 Best of Fort Worth Swimming Pool Builders Award. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: American Pool & Spa Professionals; Better Business Bureau;

Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce; Greater Fort Worth Builders Association. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: We have never skimped on quality or morals to win a job. PHILOSOPHY: Honesty, integrity and communication are the backbone of our company. We will not cut corners on the quality of a pool in order to lower the price, nor will we quote a lower price for initial contract only to make up the difference by nickel-and-diming our customers. FREE ADVICE: When shopping for a pool builder, make

make sure you do your homework. Call the Better Business Bureau. Call customer and trade references. Compare apples to apples on quotes. Don’t just look at size and depth of the pool. Everything must be considered including materials, equipment and how the pool is built. Don’t assume all pools are built the same. The caliber of the equipment you receive, as well as what happens underground, is the difference in quality, maintenance and electrical efficiency. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A

POOL: Don’t take things off of your pool to save money. If you are going to build a pool, build what you want. Most people regret not adding that waterfall, upgrading the plaster or adding extra decking. PICTURED: Jason and Jennifer Satterwhite (owners), Ethan Guhl, Bob Joyner, Michael Hebert, Carrie Jones, and Nicki Richmond. CONTACT INFORMATION: 2200 Cantrell Sansom Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76131. 817.306.5169, Fax 817.306.3681. E-MAIL: jen@puryearpools.com WEB SITE: puryearpools.com.

The Randy White Team [ Tappe-White Real Estate Services ]

SPECIALTY: Top-level service with an educational approach to help the client make the best possible decision for them.

EDUCATION: B.B.A. in real estate, University of Texas at Arlington. AWARDS/HONORS: People’s Choice of Best Realtor, Colleyville Courier and Southlake Journal newspapers; Ranked Top Realtor in Tarrant County in D Magazine

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS : Colleyville Chamber

of Commerce; Southlake Chamber of Commerce. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Consistently being named the No. 1 Selling Team in Tarrant County. GREATEST PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Having a happy, loving family. AREAS OF SERVICE: Northeast Tarrant County. WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE THEM: Randy White’s team is known for its integrity and hard work, as well as its gen -

uine concern for what is best for the client. MOTTO: “Leading People Home.” DURING OFF HOURS: When he’s not in the office or working with clients, Randy is reading a great book, enjoying fishing, or spending time with his wife, Natalie, and his grandchildren, Harley and Hayden. CHARITABLE WORK: Cook Children’s Medical Center; Habitat for Humanity. FREE ADVICE: Encouragement is oxygen to the soul. The

first duty of love is to listen. Find your passion and wrap yourself around it. PICTURED: Rick Lamoureux, Brooke Teel, Giles Hartenbower, Hillary Shugart, Claire Jenkins, Natalie White, and Randy White. CONTACT INFORMATION: 1560 E. Southlake Blvd., Ste. 200, Southlake, Texas 76092. 817.442.0173, Fax 817.251.6448. E-MAIL: randy@randywhite.com WEB SITE: randywhite.com.

Aaron Ornamental Iron Works, Inc.

co N c EN t RAt I o N: Our commitment to excellence in this industry has continued to set the bar far above our competitors, and has blazed new trails for creative technique, beauty and endurance. The result has been the phenomenal growth and success from a family-born business to a major player in the national field of iron works. AwARDS: Providing the iron work in the John Askew home that won Kaleidoscope of Homes’ Best in Show and Best Craftsmanship awards. PR of ESSI o NAL m E m BERSHIPS: Texas Builders Association, Texas Associations of Businesses, Blue Book contractors, Better Business Bureau Accredited business since 1998. PHIL o S o PHY: Our motto is “Hard Work Pays Off.” This philosophy is intertwined through the company and has given birth to other forgotten business concepts such as: taking pride in our work; making sure our clients get exactly what they want; keeping promises; and remaining a leader in innovative designs and techniques. BIGGES t m IS tAKE PE o PLE m AKE w HEN BUILDING A H om E: Many people we talk to wish they had considered iron works in the beginning stages of the building process and made it a priority in the budget. PI ct URED: Owners Todd Brock and Stephen Stratton. Designer: Gladys Marchbanks, AISD. co N tA ct IN fo R m At I o N: 3501 Locke Ave., Fort Worth, Texas 76107. 817.731.9281, Fax 817.731.0501. E- m AIL: info@aaronornamental.net w EB SI t E: aaronornamental.com.

BMC West, Coppell, Texas

C o NC e N trat I o N: Our location is 100 percent millwork. We supply millwork to every type of project—from the smallest to the most complex. We evenly supply each segment of the market.

awar D s: Associate of the Year, Dallas HBA. P rofess I o N a L

M e MB ersh IP s: Texas Association of Builders, National Association of Home Builders, National Association of the Remodeling Industry, Association of Millwork Distributors, American Society of Interior Design, Texas Institute of Building Design, American Institute of Architects, NAHB Remodelers Council, National Kitchen and Bath Association and the Dallas/Fort Worth, Tyler Area, East Texas and Top of Texas Home Builders associations. G reatest P rofess I o N a L a C h I e V e M e N t: Providing our customers with a fill rate of more than 98 percent in 2007 and 2008.

P h IL oso P h Y: Not only are we customer-focused and salesand service-driven, but we are the employer of choice. free a DVIC e: Never purchase millwork without visiting our facility and meeting our staff. BIGG est MI sta K e P eo PL e M a K e whe N BUILDING a ho M e: Not thoroughly checking out their homebuilder and suppliers to ensure their home is built on time and to their specifications. PIC t U re D: Mike Marino, location manager; Virginia Saldana, human resources manager; Tony Huckeba, administrative and product manager; Kevin Anderson, customer service manager; Jimmy Webb, operations manager; Bruce Baughman, warehouse manager; and Justin Hopps, production manager. C o N ta C t IN for M at I o N: 425 Airline Drive, Coppell, Texas 75019. 972.304.1234. we B s I te: bmcwest.com.

Changing Color [ Landscape design and outdoor living ]

focUS: At Changing Color, our focus is always on what works best for our clients’ needs. We offer custom one-of-a-kind outdoor living spaces for residential and commercial properties. Homeowners and contractors rely on our ability to deliver on time and within budget. REcoGNItIoNS: Aquascape Designs recognizes Changing Color for accomplishments as a top purchaser. PRofESSIoNAL mEmBERSHIPS: Better Business Bureau, Colleyville Chamber of Commerce, Aquascape Certified. GREAtESt PRofESSIoNAL

AcHIEVEmENt: Changing Color has provided customers with outstanding designs and customer service for over 26 years. We value our customers’ time, and we guarantee that they are more than satisfied with our quality of work. We are proud to offer personal references on both residential and commercial designs. PHILoSoPHY:

We give the customer more than what they expect at a reasonable price. We have a real sense of personal responsibility for the quality of the finished product, offering art and elegance in the landscape while creating truly inspired outdoor living. fREE ADVIcE: “Always take the time to research before choosing a landscape contractor,” said Robert Young, 24-year supervisor for Changing Color. “Call references and check their Web Sites.” BIGGESt mIStAKE PEoPLE mAKE

wHEN BUILDING A HomE: Not taking the time to design their outdoor living space as they would the inside of their home. PIctURED: Nancy Spradling, owner/designer. coNtAct INfoRmAtIoN: 2504 Carson St., Haltom City, Texas 76028. 817.759.2504, Fax 817.759.2505. E-mAIL: nancy@changingcolorponds.com wEB SItE: changingcolorponds.com.

Durango Doors

C o NC e N trat I o N: Our focus is to be the “company of choice” for custom wrought iron fabrication. We achieve this by working closely with our clients in the design stage so that the final product reflects their own personal sense of style. G reatest P rofess I o N a L a C h I e V e M e N t: A professional milestone for us was the purchase of the old Ajax Glass building at 4015 W. Vickery Blvd. We now have 24,000 square feet to fabricate and display our products. Our new showroom will be completed December 2008. P h IL oso P h Y: We always strive to exceed our customers’ expectations. free a DVIC e: There is an inverse correlation when it comes to verbal promises and time. As time goes on, the promise tends to fade or be forgotten. That is why you always need to get your scope of work in writing. Building a house is a six- to 18-month process. During this time, ver-

bal promises can be forgotten. BIGG est MI sta K e P eo PL e M a K e: Going with the cheapest bid. You get what you pay for. INN o Vat I o N s: We have developed a 2 ¼” thick door with insulated panels using a higher density foam. The thicker panel coupled with the foam creates a 40 percent improvement in U & R values over our standard 1 ½” panel. C har I ta BL e wor K: Our charitable contribution is salvaging old doors we replace, and taking them to Habitat for Humanity for restoration and reuse. PIC t U re D: Scott Pereth and Jill Dragonetti. C o N ta C t IN for M at I o N: 4015 W. Vickery Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76107. 817.368.5709. fax: 817.732.1690. e -M a IL: durangodoorsdfw@sbcglobal.net. we B s I te: durangodoors.com.

DWR Contractors

co N c EN t RAt I o N: DWR Contractors is a complete drywall service company, specializing in upscale custom homes with a variety of high-end finishes and drywall finish trims. We are a family-owned business with over 35 years of experience. “We pride ourselves with having the highest quality and service in our field and recognize the importance of communicating with our builders and their homeowners to give them exactly what they want.” PR of ESSI o NAL m E m BERSHIPS: Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce; Better Business Bureau; NFIB. GREAt ES t PR of ESSI o NAL A c HIEVE m EN t: Our greatest achievements happen every day. We work hard to gain our customers’ trust and loyalty. We do what we say we’re going to do, and always stand behind our work. I think that attitude has a lot to do with our success. When we begin

a new business relationship with a customer, we strive to make it a relationship that lasts a lifetime. PHIL o S o PHY: We understand the importance of our trade in the building process and take pride in the work we do. BIGGES t m IS tAKE PE o PLE m AKE w HEN BUILDING A H om E: Gambling by hiring a builder or general contractor who lacks experience and knowledge. “If you hire a quality builder, you get quality contractors, and the end result will be a “dream home “ that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.” PI ct URED: Wade Roberson; JD Roberson. co N tA ct IN fo R m At I o N: 5401 Wichita St., Fort Worth, Texas 76119. 817.535.3629, Fax 817.536.6722. E- m AIL: wade@dwrcontractors.com. w EB SI t E: dwrcontractors.com.

FloorCovering Enterprises

FOCUS: FloorCovering Enterprises provides wood, carpet, tile, granite and cabinet products and services for both new construction and remodels. Our focus is to make the building process as stress free as possible for our valued customers. From the beginning stages of creating a design plan to the final walk-through, FCE is committed to customer satisfaction. AWARDS: Cadence Custom Homes Contactor of the Year, 2006; Participant of Kaleidoscope Home Tour 2008, House winner of Best in Show and Craftsmanship Award. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: At FCE, our greatest professional achievement is the recognition we have received from the building industry. We have been honored by some of the biggest names in the floor covering industry. From Shaw Industries’ Top 800 to Kaleidoscope of Homes, FCE remains a leader

in the D/FW area. With a decade of design and service, FCE’s reputation is unmatched. PHILOSOPHY: Unbelievable quality, service, price. FREE ADVICE: Research any company before you trust them with your home. Reputation is as important as the product. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: Settling for mediocre service. At FCE, we will not allow you to settle for anything but 100 percent quality and 100 percent satisfaction. PICTURED: (right to left) Rene Langston, Ayax Arrivillaga, Felecia Born, Kyle Higgins, Jodi Allen, Nita Berg, and Marsha Buckles. CONTACT INFORMATION: 2865 Exchange Blvd., Southlake, Texas 76092. 817.442.8000, Fax 817.442.8044. E-MAIL: fce@fcedfw.com WEB SITE: fcedfw.com.

Franklin’s Foam and Fiberglass Insulation

co N c EN t RAt I o N: Informing the general public that they have only one opportunity to insulate their homes properly. Franklin Foam and Fiberglass Insulation also educates customers of the financial and environmental benefits of insulating their home with Franklin’s Foam Insulation. AwARDS: Participated in the 2007 and 2008 Kaleidoscope of Homes Tour; 2008 Fort Worth, Texas magazine’s Dream Home. GREAt ES t PR of ESSI o NAL A c HIEVE m EN t: Receiving feedback from customers about our outstanding customer service and regularly hearing how insulating their homes with foam insulation was one of the best decisions made on their new home. PHIL o S o PHY: Dedicated to creating

successful partnerships and lasting relationships with our customers by exceeding their expectations. f REE ADVI c E: Look for well established contractors who have built their businesses on quality workmanship, customer service and years of experience. BIGGES t m IS tAKE PE o PLE m AKE w HEN BUILDING A H om E: Only concentrating on the cost of building the new home and not focusing any attention on what it will actually cost to live in the new home. PI ct URED: Casey Derosa, J. R. Velazquez, Mark Franklin, and Adam Nix. co N tA ct IN fo R m At I o N: 201 NW 26th St., Fort Worth, Texas 76164. 817.831.1240, Fax 817.831.1245. E- m AIL: sales@franklinfoam.com. w EB SI t E: franklinfoam.com.

Griffith Roofing Inc.

CONCENTRATION: To exceed all of our clients’ expectations.

AWARDS: Griffith Roofing Inc. was voted Best Roofer in North Tarrant County two years in a row by the Southlake Times newspaper. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT:

Achieving and maintaining a 98 percent customer satisfaction rating.

PHILOSOPHY: Great service at a fair price. FREE ADVICE:

Only use a roofing contractor that is fully insured and will not ask you for any payment at all until the job is 100 percent complete. CONTACT INFORMATION: 1210 Westmont Drive, Southlake, Texas 76092. 817.800.4802, Fax 817.416.5516. E-MAIL: mark.griffith@verizon.net.

Hawk Security

foc US: Hawk Security is a full-service security provider. Small or large, residential or commercial, Hawk Security can handle it. Hawk Security specializes in burglary/intrusion detection, fire detection, video surveillance, access control, hospital/infant anti-abduction systems, life safety and managed IP networked applications, including our new Interface Digital Voice product for residential and commercial customers. We deliver value-added products and services offering convenience, peace of mind and satisfaction to every customer. BUSINESS PHIL o S o PHY: Hawk Security, an Interface Company, practices customer focus. We listen and observe to learn and serve our customers’ needs. We communicate honestly and act with integrity to exceed expectations and foster long-term, mutually profitable partnerships. AwARDS: Honeywell Security Residential “Installation of the Year” Award; Security Distributing

and Marketing’s “Dealer of the Year” Award—the alarm industry’s highest honor; Three-time Inc. 500 “Fastest Growing Companies” Award Winner. PR of ESSI o NAL m E m BERSHIPS: Honeywell Security Products Dealer, NBFAA, Better Business Bureau member. GREAt ES t PR of ESSI o NAL A c HIEVE m EN t: Personal Service. Even though we provide security to more than 100,000 customers, we do not use automated phone attendants. Our customers always get a live person 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

PI ct URED: (left to right) Michael McLeod, president and COO; Mike Shirley, regional vice president; Marcos Valdez, regional operations manager. co N tA ct IN fo R m At I o N: 14500 Trinity Blvd., Ste. 100, Fort Worth, Texas 76155. Toll-Free: 888.U.GO.HAWK, Fax 817.785.0200. E- m AIL: mike.shirley@interfacesys.com. w EB SI t E: hawksecurity.com.

Imperial Floor Installation, LLC

CONCENTRATION: Matching the homeowner with the perfect floor. AWARDS/RECOGNITIONS: WFAA Dream Home, 2007; Harris Methodist Dream Home, 2007; Fort Worth, Texas magazine Dream Homes, 2005 and 2008; Kaleidoscope of Homes at La Cantera in 2007 and Montserrat in 2008. PROFESSIONAL

MEMBERSHIPS: Grand Masters of the Royal Order of Nobles of the voluntary Temple of the Shrine. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: We have participated in several Dream Homes in the Metroplex. A substantial amount of that money has gone to various charities. We also salvaged more than 75,000 square feet of wood from Hurricane Katrina and turned it into reusable flooring, which we have about 14,000 square feet left of and are featuring in the Dream Home this year.

MOTTO: “It has to be fair for everyone involved.” “I feel more like I do now than I did awhile ago.” FREE ADVICE: Less news and more smiles. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: They need to include more wood floors in their home, of course. PICTURED: Sammy Kline, Cindi Dickman, Kadence Edwards and Roman, the bull mastiff. CONTACT INFORMATION: 8901 W. Freeway, Ste. 113, Fort Worth, Texas 76116. 817.244.1552, Fax 817.244.3173. E-MAIL: klinesammy@ yahoo.com.

Interceramic Tile & Stone Gallery

co N c EN t RAt I o N: Tile, porcelain, marble, granite, travertine, limestone, decorative accents and setting related materials. Through our sister company, IMC, we also supply slab granite, marble, onyx, travertine and limestone. AwARDS/ RE co GNI t I o NS: Green certifications; fourth year to receive recognition as a Socially Responsible Company; voted one of the Best Managed Companies in Latin America by Forbes. PR of ESSI o NAL m E m BERSHIPS: Tile Council of America; National Contractors Association; CES American Institute of Architects Continuing Education System; National Association of Minority Contractors; Construction Specifications Institute; American Society of Interior Design; Marble Institute of America; International Interior Design Association; and U.S. Green Building Council. GREAt ES t PR of ESSI o NAL A c HIEVE m EN t: Providing 4,200 great jobs, producing $500 million in sales, providing great

financial stability even in difficult times, and having the best family-friendly environment for all employees to work in! m ISSI o N S tAt E m EN t: To provide our customers in North America with the most innovative, high-quality ceramic tile and related products, as well as world-class customer service by employing a highly-qualified team, innovative sales strategies, and an efficient technology-driven distribution network. f REE ADVI c E: When buying or building your home, it’s wise to invest in good brands, to carefully review your options of what the best materials are when it comes to quality and design, and to find the most reputable place to buy them for good service and guarantees. It’s worth the investment in the long run! co N tA ct IN fo R m At I o N: 6318 Airport Freeway, Ste. A, Fort Worth, Texas 76117. 817.834.8491, Fax 817.834.3178. w EB SI t E: interceramic.com.

Jefferies Custom Homes

FOCUS: Our focus at Jefferies Custom Homes is to serve our clients with honesty and integrity. RECOGNITIONS: I strive for nothing greater than the words “job well done” from my clients. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Texas Residential Construction Commission. PHILOSOPHY: Yes, treat your clients with integrity, stand by the truth and temper your judgment with forgiveness. FREE ADVICE: If you are having a home built, seek out a builder with credibility and then test their credibility with many questions. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE

WHEN BUILDING A HOME: They do not remember the difference between the cheapest price and the best value. PICTURED: Bill Jefferies and Brad Teel. CONTACT INFORMATION: Bill Jefferies—317 Arbor Lane, Haslet, Texas 76052. 817.480.2468, Fax 817.439.0934. E-MAIL: bill@jefferiescustomhomes.com.

WEB SITE: jefferiescustomhomes.com. Brad Teel—6404 Whitehurst Drive, Watauga, Texas 76148. 817.881.5891, Fax 817.439.0934. E-MAIL: bradteel1@gmail.com.

WEB SITE: jefferiescustomhomes.com.

Jill Hammonds [ JR

Designs ]

SPECIALTY: Jill Hammonds of JR Designs specializes in faux finishes, textured designs, wood applications, cabinet glazing and designs, door and molding staining, murals, faux furniture refinishing, tin and leather ceilings, accent medallions and more. With more than 16 years of experience in both commercial and residential design, Hammonds has delved into everything from traditional to old world, Mediterranean to Florida Keys contemporary. PHILOSOPHY: Hammonds said she enjoys “the opportunity to create an environment that is pleasing and enjoyable yet unique to each setting.” “I love to see the smile of the client after completion of a project. It

makes everything worthwhile,” she said. Honesty, integrity and understanding are all integral aspects of her work. DURING OFF HOURS: In her spare time, Hammonds is focused on her family. “I am devoted to my family and to raising three incredible boys,” she said. Her outreach is focused on family, as well. “Once a month, I try to give to someone who would not expect it, and I try to take the time to make a difference in their home.” CONTACT INFORMATION: 1309 Judge Bland Road, Roanoke, Texas 76262. 817.825.1731. E-MAIL: jill_hammonds@msn.com.

Lee Lighting

CONCENTRATION: Lee Lighting was designed in 1965 to meet the distinctive lighting needs of homebuilders, and is currently the largest supplier of residential lighting in the Southeast. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: American Lighting Association, NARI, Homebuilders Association of Greater Dallas, Greater Fort Worth Builders Association. AWARDS: Lee Lighting was awarded “Associate of the Year” by the Fort Worth Builder Association, Dallas Home Builder Association (2001 & 2007), Dallas Home Builder Association Vesta Awards, and the Dallas Home Builder Association MCSAM Awards. It was also honored with “State Associate of the Year” from the Texas Association of Builders, as well as the “Shorty Howard Membership Award” from the Dallas Home Builder

Association. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: We are proud to provide our customers with exceptional service, an unparalleled selection and a vast amount of experience—all at a competitive price. PHILOSOPHY: We have an unyielding commitment to exceptional customer service and quality. FREE ADVICE: When considering your home’s plans, don’t forget to include lighting design! BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: Allowing a large enough allowance in the lighting budget, and to complete the pre-wiring for the specific types of lighting that will complement the home’s specific spaces. CONTACT INFORMATION: 4467 Preston Road, Frisco, Texas 75034-8515. 972.731.5026. WEB SITE: leelighting.com.

Lighthouse Furniture & Design Center

CONCENTRATION: To be the very best we can possibly be in providing quality furniture, decorative accessories and custom doors. We also create custom window treatments and bedding to suit a client’s every need. Our window treatments and bedding are not only beautifully unique but affordable. As an added benefit, we offer a complimentary in-home design service. Essentially, we at Lighthouse Furniture & Design Center want to be a blessing to all those with whom we have contact. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Fort Worth Builder’s Association and ASID. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: First and foremost, it’s being able to do what we love best—creating beautiful and unique designs.

Through hard work and God’s blessing, the Lighthouse Furniture & Design Center has tripled in size and volume in only five years. MOTTO: If you dream it, we can build it!

FREE ADVICE: Don’t be intimidated about sharing your own personal ideas. Interact with your designer/contractor in creating your personal sanctuary and haven. The design experience should be fun and never stressful! BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: Thinking they’ll actually stay on budget! CONTACT INFORMATION: 2201 Tin Top Road, Ste. 200, Weatherford, Texas 76087. Dani Robertson, 817.594.6873, Fax 817.594.2555. E-MAIL: lighthouse2201@hotmail.com WEB SITE: lighthousefurniture.net.

Odyssey Electric, LLC

CONCENTRATION: Residential and commercial new construction. We also work in the field of residential and commercial service. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Better Business Bureau.

GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: I have survived three Dream Homes! PHILOSOPHY: We offer exceptional service to over 50 builders in the D/FW Metroplex. Our reputation as an exceptional electrical contractor is well-deserved, and we strive to maintain that reputation on a daily basis. FREE ADVICE: Understand what it really means to build a home if you have never done it before. Really investigate what you want first, which will make it easier on you during the process. And know that all the contractors who work for you are, nine times out of ten, there for your benefit and willing to help if asked to. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: Not being prepared beforehand. Oftentimes, people start out wanting one kind of product but change in the middle of the process. This leaves them, their builder and sub-contractors frustrated. PICTURED: Toby Fitzgerald; Bodie Fitzgerald; Jason Dominy. CONTACT INFORMATION: 8233 Mid-Cities Blvd., Ste. B, North Richland Hills, Texas 76180. 817.897.1608, Fax 817.479.0731. E-MAIL: odysseyelectric@sbcglobal.net WEB SITE: odysseyelectrical.com.

OmniView Window and Door

CONCENTRATION: There is certainly an emphasis on the custom new residential and remodel segments of the market. We also have had success in the high-end commercial market, providing windows and doors for medical, legal and other professional offices.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: NAHB. GREATEST

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: We place a great deal of value in the relationships we have with our customers. Our commitment to those relationships is the primary reason for our success and continued growth. PHILOSOPHY: Our philosophy is very simple: “Exceed Expectations.” Always do a little extra, and do it with

character and integrity. FREE ADVICE: When you’re building a home, do not look at windows and doors as an area to save money. Windows and doors have a significant impact on your energy bills and the overall look and comfort of your home. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: They underestimate the importance of good quality windows and doors. PICTURED: Rudy Aramburu, Scott Huffman, Royce Huffman. CONTACT INFORMATION: 9657 Camp Bowie Blvd. West, Fort Worth, Texas 76116. 817.334.0707, Fax 817.334.0796. E-MAIL: raramburu@omniview.us

Overhead Door Company of Fort Worth

FOCUS: Garage doors and fireplace sales. AWARDS/ RECOGNITIONS: The Overhead Door Company of Fort Worth has received multiple Eagle Awards from Overhead Door Corporation, recognizing them as one of the top distributors in the United States. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Builders Association, Better Business Bureau. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: No. 1 market share (D/FW area) record growth (2001-2008). MOTTO: To construct a quality-focused organization that continuously exceeds customers’ needs and expectations. FREE ADVICE: When purchasing a garage door and operator, remember that it is your largest home appliance. Buy quality from a reputable supplier. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: Not considering the impact or “curb appeal” of their home in relation to the garage door. CONTACT INFORMATION: 840 Southway Circle, Fort Worth, Texas 76115. 817.921.3641, Fax 817.921.3649. E-MAIL: perrym@ohdfw.com WEB SITE: ohdfw.com.

David Reyes Construction, Inc.

SPECIALTY: New residential, patios and driveways. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: We have placed concrete for more than 1,000 new homes in the past 17 years. PHILOSOPHY: Do it right once and be proud of your work because when people ask who did the work, you can proudly say it’s yours. YEARS IN BUSINESS: David Reyes Construction has been a family-owned, second-generation business since 1979. FREE ADVICE: If you’re going to pour concrete or add onto your house, make whatever you’re going to add big enough because you’re already investing time and money into it. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOUSE: Building a house, not a home. PICTURED: David Reyes and Adelaido Reyes. CONTACT INFORMATION: 9660 Olivia Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76108. 817.360.4346, Fax 817.246.5567. E-MAIL: DReyes1514@aol.com.

Rick’s Hardware & Decorative Plumbing

CONCENTRATION: Supplying and servicing quality hardware and decorative plumbing items to custom homebuilders and remodelers in the DFW Metroplex. AWARDS/RECOGNITIONS: BRIZO Dealer of the Year; Gold Award for BLANCO sinks; Baldwin-certified showroom; Silver Key & Gold Key Award for KWIKSET locks; and Supplier of the Year for Robson Ranch. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: NHBA, Tarrant County HBA, Premier DPH, NARI, Hood County HBA, Parker County HBA, and Weatherford Chamber of Commerce. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: In 32 years in business, we have grown to five stores and over 30 employees to service our customers. MOTTO:

Continued growth and geographic expansion through relentless dedication to the success of our homebuilders and their homeowner clients. FREE ADVICE: Make sure that early in the selection process you do your research and hire professionals to aid you with the items that are most important to your project. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: Not spending money on things that can’t be easily changed or upgraded later. PICTURED: Paul and Dianne Tacker. CONTACT INFORMATION: 1102 E. Dallas Road, Ste. 250, Grapevine, Texas 76051. 817.488.0036, 817.481.0028. E-MAIL: dsalee@rickshardware.com. WEB SITE: rickshardware.com.

Tile, Marble and Granite Works, Inc.

CONCENTRATION: We provide tile, natural stone, marble and granite for custom designs in both residential and commercial needs.

GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Customer satisfaction as seen in our Better Business Bureau reports, and Fort Worth, Texas magazine’s request to use our services to complete work for their community projects. FREE ADVICE: Not only does a fabricator need to have experience, but they also need to have their own fabrication facility. Qualify your fabricator and make sure they are doing the work in-house and not subcontracting it to an offsite fabrication facility.

PICTURED: (left to right) Mayra Cecenas; David Schmidt; Michelle

YEARS IN BUSINESS: David Schmidt, owner of Tile,

Marble and Granite Works, Inc., who has been serving the Metroplex for over 23 years, has achieved a reputation of excellence in customer service and satisfaction. CONTACT INFORMATION : At our Granite Showroom and Fabrication Facility, we feature over 1,000 unique marble, granite and onyx slabs from around the world with more than 50 colors to view. We also carry high-end lines of sink consoles, appliances, sinks, fixtures and cabinets—7201 W. Vickery Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76116. At our Tile Showroom and Design Center, we provide current styles of unique, top quality ceramic and porcelain tiles, as well as natural stone lines all with unique accent pieces—4000 W. Vickery Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76107. 817.737.1925, Fax 817.377.3322. E-MAIL: info@tmgw.biz.

Universal Systems

CONCENTRATION: To provide a comprehensive solution to our customers’ home/office electronic needs: Hi-Def home theater, wallmounted flat screen TVs, house music, WIFI networks, automated lighting and window shades, and security systems. CHARITABLE WORK: Universal Systems has donated equipment to the Careity Foundation Fundraiser, 2007-2008; Harris Methodist Dream Home, 2007; and Harris Methodist HEB Heart Home, 2005. Universal Systems was also a sponsor for the Lena Pope Home Charity Golf Tournament. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: State licensed for Alarm Installations in1981; THX certified Audio Dealer; Crestron Control Dealer; Lutron Lighting/Window Shade Dealer; National Systems Contractor Association; Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association. CERTIFICATIONS: Each of our

formally trained installation staff members has achieved the following: Certified Electronic Systems Technician; ISF video calibration certified; TIA Network certified and Home Acoustics Association certified. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Growing a family business with a unified team of specialists that caters to our customers’ ever-changing needs. From Cable to Dish, from Dial up to DSL, from Ma’ Bell to voice over IP, Universal is a mom’s best friend when dealing with the various service providers. PICTURED: Gary Dilling, founder; Hank Lohmer; Dorenda Dilling Lohmer. CONTACT INFORMATION: 2960 Wesley Way, Fort Worth, Texas 76118. 817.589.9966, Fax 817.589.0390. E-MAIL: gary@uni-sys.com.

WEB SITE: uni-sys.com.

The Hickman Companies welcomes the following new tenants to Quorum Office Building

FortWorth,Texas magazine

Crew Land Research

Automotive

Finance Corporation

Tarleton State University

SkyDrill Power Systems

The Way to Stay

The soon-to-rise Stayton at Museum Way will be a wellness-focused, luxe-living retirement community touting a sought-after Seventh Street address and an enviable array of pamper-yourself amenities—all ingeniously designed to help its residents dwell well.

by Alison Rich

Although it served them well for many years, Fred and Carole Kelly are ready to relinquish their four-bedroom abode on the city’s west side. “We needed to find someplace [without] the yard, the taxes and the house, and spend the better part of retirement,” Fred explained. “That’s what started us on the journey of looking for a retirement community.”

That journey took the couple—he’s a former exec and she’s a retired educator—far and wide in Fort Worth. But when they spotted the Stayton, their search came to a grinding halt.

“This isn’t your assigned-seating, got-to-wear-your-badge, everybody-eats-at-a-certain time place,” said Fred, who worked for 40 years at Lockheed Martin in engineering and management positions. “This is life as you live it. There’s flexibility of style and care, and it’s the best we found in the area.”

The Kellys wanted an upscale yet close-knit enclave that also offered life-care options—assisted living and total healthcare, if necessary—and a near-the-action location, including

downtown cultural venues and their church. They will have all that—and more—when they relocate to the Stayton when it opens in 2010.

“We were looking for a place where we could have community and health benefits and live the lifestyle we live now,” Fred said. “We looked at everything in Fort Worth, and we liked the Stayton’s style. The location is great because it will be [near] plenty of shops and grocery stores— within easy walking distance or a short drive … It appealed to us from every aspect.” The superior sustainability quotient was an added bonus. “It’s great,” Fred said. “We all owe it to ourselves to do the best we can as stewards of the earth.”

Another perk: “The Stayton will let us bring our two cairn terriers,” said Fred of the couple’s beloved canines, who no doubt will frolic to their hearts’ content in the planned dog yard. “And that was important.”

Also, as mom and dad to six children, grandparents to 12 and greatgrandparents to one, the fact that there will be plenty of room for visitors was a definite draw. “The kids can come. The grandkids can come. It’s going to be good,” Fred said.

The Stayton will be an instacommunity of sorts for the Kellys, who are looking forward to rekindling old friendships and nurturing current ones. “We’ve got lots of friends who are going to live there,” he said.

But what the Kellys are most looking forward to is simplicity at its most authentic, truly encapsulating the heart of the place.

“Just being able,” Fred said, “to focus on living.”

A Very Worthy Fit

Cowtown was the logical locale for an upmarket life-care community, said Charles B. Brewer, president/ CEO of Senior Quality Lifestyle Corp., the Dallas-based company that owns the nonprofit Stayton. “The area has blossomed,” he said of the bustling-with-new-business Seventh Street corridor and nearby developments like the mixed-use Montgomery Plaza across the street. “It’s a forward-looking city, and we think we’ll fit in very well here.” Also a fitting counterpoint to the Stayton’s community focus: the city’s never-met-a-stranger nature, which Brewer praises.

and mighty / David Dillard, president of Baltimore-based CSD Architects, said he referenced the Museum District when designing the 11-story structure slated to open in 2010, particularly pointing out the building’s three slender towers standing side by side

“We felt very welcome to Fort Worth,” he said of Mayor Moncrief and other city leaders’ warm reception to the project from the get-go. “They’ve done everything possible to make us feel welcome. I couldn’t have felt any better.”

Brewer’s ultimate objective, he said, is to cultivate a community where its residents—and the city at large—can be proud. “The city of Fort Worth—and particularly downtown and that area—is the kind of place we want to be and the kind of residents we want to have,” he said. “Our goal is set a new standard and be the very best.”

Building More Stories

If great architecture is mindful of its surrounding environs—incorporating those elements into its milieu so that it mirrors the surrounding composition instead of colliding with it—then the Stayton is a true archetype of that approach. “The language is driven by the voices around it,” said David Dillard, president of Baltimore-based CSD Architects, which has an office in

Dallas, “and is extremely respectful of its region.”

He referenced the Museum District heavily when designing the 11story, three-towered, neutral-toned structure, on which construction is slated to commence in late ’08. “You’ve got a lot of variety in the façade,” Dillard said. “It moves in and out in a rhythmic way in all four directions.” One of the most deliberate ways the Stayton reflects its setting is via the “three striking geometric figures—the three slender towers—standing side by side,” he said. “The Kimbell is made of the exact three components. And the Modern also has three geometric shapes side by side.”

The mid-rise Stayton is the client’s first foray into vertical CCRC (continuing care retirement communities), Dillard noted, which makes its high-and-mighty listing of luxuriant extras all the more apropos.

“It’s hospitality-driven architecture,” Dillard said, noting the destination spa and bistros as places that most surely will be hopping with activity. “When you walk in

the lobby, you’ll see a fabulous assortment of sitting spaces, lounge spaces, a concierge desk, a couple of really cool booths with curtains that draw across for privacy—it’s an elegant five-star-hotel-like space for amenities.”

Although it might seem paradoxical, the site’s petite profile was a huge design motivation. “The fact that it’s so tight—it’s only a 3-acre site–made us work even harder than usual to make the most of every square inch,” Dillard said, noting the use of numerous fountains and courtyards outside to produce the allusion of copious space. “We’re letting the eye wander far beyond the limits of the floor plan itself.”

Not to mention the fact that the sky-reaching configuration also ups the earth-aware ante.

“The idea of going vertical in my lexicon is becoming one of the most important ways to be green,” Dillard said. “Essentially, it’s the economies of using less of Mother Earth. It’s the idea of taking a 3-acre site and doing the same thing as a 30-acre site. You leave more green space and more

Plush Retirement / Interior designer Lea von Kaenel said the Stayton is an urban high-rise that will feel comfortable and ‘Fort Worth lifestyle’ oriented. The lobby furnishings, for instance, will be soft traditional.

greenery—literally—on the ground when you go up. A skyscraper is more friendly than a ground scraper.”

Not only did Dillard fashion the Stayton to be fetching to occupants (the average age of residents is 78, he noted), but he also had to appeal to their mid-50s adult children—commonly the people who make the ultimate decision about their parents’ retirement residence. Beyond that, he also ensured he made it very “Fort Worth.”

“There are things I did differently here and not in the ‘D-word,’” he said, lightheartedly referencing the company’s sister property in Dallas. “Its architecture is rooted about a mile west in the Museum District. And that goes not only for the building materials but for the characteristics of the architecture that recognize the local climate. This building is laced with shading devices—on the ground and on terraces. Balconies on different levels are filled with regional grassland plant materials that are low maintenance and native.”

As for the style, he deliberately blended the “refined, traditional taste” of Fort Worthians on the inside with a more transitional look on the exterior. “The outside is connected to the architecture of the museums, the inside is connected to the residents’ styles and the houses they’re coming from,” he explained.

“There’s a deliberate juxtaposition of the museum architecture on the exterior and a very warm residential

Green at a Glance

• Because it’s sited on a 3-acre parcel site that previously was a contaminated manufacturing site (it’s all cleaned up now!), the earth-easy Stayton at Museum Way will quite literally add green to Fort Worth by adding usable land.

• The structure itself will be oriented to optimize the availability of natural sunlight, with window design and shading to maximize passive solar illumination.

• Resource-sipping setups will abound vis à vis such innovative systems as a high-efficiency heating and air-conditioning system, low-flow water fixtures and toilets, Energy Star appliances, compact fluorescent bulbs, motion sensors to control lighting and automatically adjusting window shades.

• Floors will be made from bamboo (a rapidly renewable resource that doesn’t contribute to deforestation), and carpets will be composed of wool (a chemical-free material).

• Fewer toxins will be released into the air, thanks to the low-VOC paints used throughout the structure.

• Furnishings, artwork, etc., will be bought locally to nix the need for shipping (and thus, toxins emitted from vehicles) from far-off locales.

• The landscape will feature droughtresistant plants and native grass to minimize watering.

• The clean indoor air will benefit residents who have asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

• The copious exposure to daylight—a natural mood elevator—could even help those residents who deal with depression.

flavor on the interior.”

And that juxtaposition is what truly elevates the Stayton to the apex of the senior-living arena, he said.

multifaceted set of experiences inside and out, where every floor and every part of each floor feels like an experience in and of itself.”

Designing a Destination

Creating a lifestyle that empowers clients to make choices is the crux of the Stayton’s design premise, said interior design consultant Lea von Kaenel of Austin-based StudioSIX5.

“Although there is an overarching concept, all the areas have their own personality,” she explained, citing the layers of differently functioning spaces in this large continuing-care community. “There is a seamless aesthetic across all levels of care.” Von Kaenel will delineate zones, for instance, by employing different paint colors and finishes, furnishings and artwork.

“It’s the top-ofthe-line way to live as a senior in Fort Worth, Texas, in a perfect location, close to everything, with views and comfortable living, services, variety, flexibility. It’s a

Because the Stayton is an urban high-rise, it will have a different feel than, say, a community located in a suburban setting. “The building is not entirely traditional—it feels comfortable and ‘Fort Worth lifestyle’ oriented,” von Kaenel said. Lobby furnishings, for instance, will be comfy in a “soft traditional” way, with global influences evident, as well. “It might not be your ‘grandmother’s wingchair,’” she noted, “but it definitely sits like a wingchair.”

In short, the Stayton will be a blend of traditional and soft mod-

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ern. “Our job is to walk that line and balance them,” von Kaenel explained. “It has to appeal to the residents now and look good 10 years from now.” It also has to catch the eye of their adult children, she noted.

The main challenge is providing a hospitality-based environment with the “science supporting that environment,” said von Kaenel of the intricacies involved in designing for the senior market. For instance, furniture has to be ergonomic, with arms that are easy to use and firm cushions that are snug but also easy to move out of. Plus, there has to be plenty of crisp lighting and a marked contrast between walls and floors.

The schema also includes elements that aren’t just easy on the eyes—they’re easy on the earth, to boot. “Anything that we can do that’s a sustainable material, we have,” she said, noting that the spa is 100 percent green.

“It’s on their radar screen,” she said of residents’ desire to live eco-consciously. “They want healthier living environments and are also very concerned about the planet, so there’s a

strong commitment to making it as sustainable an environment as we can.” The building also blurs the distinction between the indoors and out, with expansive exterior views.

It’s also a new model for retirement, von Kaenel said. “It’s going to be one of the best in the country of its kind,” she said. “These residents are very involved—active politically, active culturally—and they want to continue that. The Stayton will allow them to take advantage of all the cultural opportunities downtown. And that’s the kind of lifestyle we want to provide.” fw

By the NumBers: the stayton’s Life-Care Continuum

• 188 independent living units

• 48 skilled nursing

• 42 assisted living

• 18 memory support

For a peek at all the perks: thestayton.com

LoveLess

Waterfront Splendor

OnEagle Mountain Lake

$1,800,000

This spacious two-story waterfront home has magnificent, big water views. There are three bedrooms and four full baths with the master suite on the ground floor. The formal living area is two stories high with a walk-in bar, black granite columns, granite fireplace, and west views across the salt water pool and lake. The well appointed kitchen has an island and breakfast bar and is open to a large den. An oversized game room with a panoramic lake view and the media room are on the upper level. The covered boathouse has a boatlift and Trex decking. A circular drive and three-car garage offer ample parking. Schedule your private showing today!

This year’s home, built by Jefferies Custom Homes and given a one-of-a-kind interior, will be located in the prestigious Palomar Estates of Southlake

TOURING

Touring begins Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2008 and continues through Sunday, Dec. 14, 2008. Hours are Wednesdays through Saturdays 11 am to 5 pm and Sundays noon to 5 pm. All proceeds benefit Colleyville Woman’s Club For more information, call 817.560.6141 or contact Gail Cannon at gcannon@fwtexas.com.

Listing Agent • Randy White • 817.251.0429

port·folio

» home builders worth knowing

There are many decisions to be made when building a home. With so many options, the task can seem daunting. The key to success lies in selecting a builder who understands your concerns and can help you achieve your goal. To assist you with this decision, the builders on the following pages offer information about themselves, how they approach their profession and what they can do to make your house a home.

Brazier Construction

SPE c IALt Y: Over the past 25 years, we have worked closely with our clients to bring thousands of beautiful homes to life. c ER t I f I c At I o N: Certified Master Builder, Texas Builder Association. AwARDS/H o N o RS: Best Developer of Wise County, 2007; Voted Best Adaptive Reuse by Texas Architect Magazine, 2006. PR of ESSI o NAL m E m BERSHIPS: Texas Residential Commission, Texas Commission Remodel Association, North America Homebuilders Association, Greater Fort Worth Builders Association.

GREAt ES t PERS o NAL A c HIEVE m EN t S: Having the luxury of being self-employed and controlling my own schedule. H om E ow NER co UNSEL: Clients should be specific with their builders so that their expectations are met. APPR o A c H: Billy

Brazier implements a true team approach to the custom home process. Brazier commissions some of the finest architects and designers in the area who work closely with the homeowner in order to create a design that truly reflects individual preferences and ideas. The results in our luxury homes reflect attention to detail and superior workmanship. f REE ADVI c E: For the most part, your home is your largest debt but also becomes your biggest asset. Make sure your builder is committed to you and your project. co N tA ct IN fo R m At I o N: 402 Hwy. 380, Bridgeport/Trophy Club, Texas 76426. 940.683.2928, Fax 940.683.8235. E- m AIL: billybrazier@ yahoo.com. w EB SI t E: brazierconstruction.us.

Browning Custom Homes

SPECIALTY: Browning Custom Homes specializes in premium quality custom residential construction, and is known as a company that attends to the smallest detail and exceptional service. GOAL : To ensure the highest caliber of work, Browning Custom Homes’ priority is not to meet the client’s expectations; rather, it is to exceed them. Mike Browning, owner, is determined to see that the Browning name, established by his grandfather in 1935, continues to be one synonymous with success. PHILOSOPHY: It is our belief that our past clients are our best advertising. We adhere to impeccable standards of craftsmanship and function on the belief that the building process should be an enjoyable and fulfilling one for our customers.

FREE ADVICE: Check builders’ references to ensure quality. Each person considering Browning Custom Homes is given a list of custom homes completed by the company and is invited to call any and all of the homeowners on the list to inquire about their building experiences. MISSION: Browning Custom Homes is committed to maintaining a mission by building homes of exceptional quality and value that are tailored to the individual needs of each customer’s lifestyle. MOTTO: A success story spanning generations. CONTACT INFORMATION: PO Box 477, Colleyville, Texas 76034. 817.488.6494. E-MAIL: sales@browningcustomhomes.com WEB SITE: browningcustomhomes.com.

HAI Home Architecture Interiors, LP

CONCENTRATION: High-end custom residential architecture and landscape design. AWARDS: Landscape design for the 2008 Southern Living Idea House in Fort Worth. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Members of the American Institute of Architects and the Texas Society of Architects. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Being selected as the architect on the Fort Worth, Texas magazine Green Home Design Team. PHILOSOPHY: An architectural and landscape firm focused on residential design. FREE ADVICE: Read and research all you can about your project. Become the “expert.” BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: Not hiring an architect to design their home. GREEN INNOVATIONS: We

use 3-D computer modeling to study the site, the proposed building and sun angles for optimum site and energy use. CHARITABLE WORK: We designed the “Villa Barbaro” Playhouse for Girls and the “Enzo Ferrari’s” Garage for Boys, both built for auction benefiting the Texas Ballet Theater during this year’s Italy-themed Fly Ball 2008. We also designed a fun “Tree House” playhouse for the upcoming Zoo Ball 2008. PICTURED: Jeff Hallum, Associate AIA; Tom Holifield, AIA. CONTACT INFORMATION: 6040 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste. 17, Fort Worth, Texas 76116. 817.332.2422, Fax 817.338.1949. E-MAIL: tom@haitexas.com; jeff@haitexas.com. WEB SITE: haitexas.com.

Watson Group Builders

FOCUS: Watson Group Builders is a design-build firm committed to bringing architecturally inspiring, quality-built custom homes to the Fort Worth area. Carrying on a family tradition of home building that started in 1960, we bring knowledge and dedication to each project. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: National Association of Home Builders. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Though we feel great achievement in bringing dream homes to our customers, our greatest reward comes from raising our daughters. PHILOSOPHY: Through Watson Design and Watson Group Builders, we are committed to bringing the highest level of architectural design combined with the newest technolo -

gies for efficient homes to our clients. FREE ADVICE: Spend time and money on the items that will result in an energy-efficient, time-enduring home. BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUILDING A HOME: We encourage our customers to pick an architectural style to design within. Too many projects try to fit every idea on today’s market into the house, resulting in a final product that lacks consistency or sense of “home.” PICTURED: Keith and Scott Watson, brothers. CONTACT INFORMATION: 3116 W. 6th St., Ste. 100, Fort Worth, Texas 76107. 817.882.8882, Fax 817.882.8805. E-MAIL: scott@watsondesigngroup.com WEB SITE: watsongroupbuilders.com.

There is No Finer Gift than giving our children the chance for a healthy childhood. All funds raised from Jewel Charity Angel donations go directly to benefit the children at Cook Children’s Medical Center. In appreciation, Angels are invited to attend the 55th Annual Jewel Charity Ball, Jewel of the Nile, on January 10, 2009. Eiseman Jewels of Dallas will present fine jewels from some of the world’s most exclusive collections at the Ball and will also host a special party for Angels only on November 20, 2008. Please join us and give the gift of health to our precious gems, the patients at Cook Children’s Medical Center, at one of the following levels:

Behind the Scenes

by Tracy Kornet,

It happens on airplanes, while waiting in long lines, on vacations, and every now and then on a Sunday morning before anyone wakes up—those few precious moments when you sit down alone and journal.

I have at least five of them going at the moment—a few pages here, a few there—each recording the emotions marking various seasons of my life.

A few years ago, I stumbled upon a random journal entry, tucked below piles of papers on my desk. It was simply dated: 3:45 a.m.

I do my best work, my most honest compelling reflections, when I’m all alone in the quiet. Perhaps that’s when I hear God whisper just the right word or phrase. ... the most creative thought. ... the most passionate verse.

My more recent journal entries have celebrated less cerebral but equally important desires. Trust me when I tell you, I have learned the hard way that along with generous family time and a challenging Bible study, I MUST have three ingredients for a happy, fulfilled life.

SO what is this magic elixir? Some call it passion.

But I prefer to call it Adventure, Risk and Fun.

Tina Fey, one of my all-time favorite writers and comedians, said in O Magazine years ago that one of her secrets to success has always been to say yes to opportunity and then figure out a way to do it later.

It’s a brilliant philosophy to living a life of no regret. I credit my path to television news with this “yes” approach to life—joining dozens of groups in high school

and even more in college, which I eventually “paused” for a year to play Cinderella at Tokyo Disneyland and sing backup for a major Japanese pop star. My bizarre resume is why my first boss said he hired me as a morning news anchor in Lexington, Ky.

And my natural inclination to say “yes” is why I’m now the lead singer of our station rock band.

“News anchor by day. Rock star by night,” is how some describe it. I just call it fun. … the one hobby that cuts to the core of who I am, makes me lose track of time, and takes me back to the crazy Tracy I was in high school.

You may be asking why a news station even has a rock band, which we creatively call “Eleven21” by the way. We formed the Eleven21 Band for our 2007 company Christmas party, since dozens of CBS11 and TXA21 employees are former professional musicians. But rehearsing was so much fun—and the actual gig such a blast—that we decided to stick together. The Eleven21 Band now performs about twice a month at classy clubs and festivals all around town.

I believe we’re all wired for healthy risk-taking and adventure. Life can become so monotonous that without fun, people take stupid risks and engage in addictive, dangerous behavior.

Which begs the question: When’s the last time you had any fun?

This is where your journal comes in. If you can’t recall the last time you let go, laughed out loud or did something that made you feel alive, you need to sit down and do a little personal brainstorming.

In the spirit of my “21 Things

Women Need to Know …” nightly segments on TXA21, I thought I’d jump start your imaginations with some fun-filled suggestions I’ve tried—or plan to try soon.

Ways to add Fun to your LiFe:

1. Google your best friend from grade school—or look up him/her on Facebook— and send a colorful, memoryfilled e-mail.

2. Join the neighborhood, co-ed softball team.

3. Take music lessons again.

4. Move to a foreign country and teach English for awhile.

5. Study for the LSAT and apply to law school. … just for the challenge.

6. Get certified to scuba-dive.

7. Go see your favorite childhood pop star in concert. (Hint: nothing beats a Rick Springfield concert!)

8. Enroll in culinary school. Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute just opened a school in Dallas.

9. Join a gym that offers salsa class.

10. Plan a girlfriend getaway or guy’s weekend. Then GO.

I’m headed off to New York in a few hours to hook up with three girlfriends, all celebrating our 40th birthdays. Take it from us: it’s never too late for adventure.

And by the way, if you choose No. 3 and take up the trumpet again, please keep me posted. You never know when The Eleven21 Band might add a horn section. fw

Happy Hill Farm

Meet under the big tent and watch the Horned Frogs on the big screen at The Ultimate Tailgate Party on Thursday, Nov. 6, benefiting Happy Hill Farm.

by Cortney Strube

In 1990, a newly-married fort worth couple rented a bus and invited their friends for a holiday christmas light tour through the streets of cowtown. A great time was to be had by all upon one stipulation: admittance was only permitted upon the donation of a Christmas gift. From toys and bikes to T-shirts and socks, the gifts were to go to a very special group—the children of Happy Hill Farm Academy and Home, a licensed, accredited, residential school that provides help to children who need another chance in life.

Eighteen years later, the generosity that began with Doug and Hillary Jennings has gone from an effort among friends to an annual occurrence that brings joy to the hearts of the children each Christmas. With 100 percent of the proceeds of the initial fundraising efforts benefiting the Farm, the holiday bus tours, which were started by the Jennings, turned into full-fledged parties that allowed the heart-felt Christmas cause to tremendously grow among businesses, city officials and individuals alike. This year’s event is no exception. On Nov. 6, The Ultimate Tailgate Party benefiting Happy Hill Farm will prove to be a great time for an even greater cause.

With an expanded committee this year, the annual fundraiser has taken a surprisingly pleasant turn—especially for Horned Frog fans. Party-goers will cheer on the Frogs as they hit the road to take on the Utah Utes

in Salt Lake City. As the Utes fans fill Rice-Eccles Stadium, Frogs fans will be at TCU’s Amon Carter Stadium watching the game in style. With topnotch local fare from such vendors as Bonnell’s, Cafe Aspen, Del Frisco’s, Fred’s, Lambert’s, Michael’s, Ultimate Cuisine and Wilson’s, an open bar and live and silent auctions, the party won’t get much better than this.

Patrons will be rooting for the home team as they share support for the stars at the Farm. Fundraisers like The Ultimate Tailgate Party not only provide a special Christmas, but also contribute to medical needs, scholarships and other services for the children living at the Farm.

Honorary chairpersons for the event are Doug and Hillary Jennings—and rightly so. Their family has been a vital part in the growth and success of the benefit, and Doug says the experience has been a true blessing. He said the children are “truly God’s gift” and that the kids at the Farm are absolutely remarkable. “They’re very unpretentious,” Doug said. “I remember a little 7-year-old girl put down on her list that she wanted clips for her hair. You’d think that kids who hadn’t had anything would ask for the world, but they don’t.”

More so than anyone, Doug credits Ed Shipman, founder of Happy Hill Farm, for touching so many lives over the years. Shipman, who began the Farm in 1977 after he refurbished an old farmhouse and turned it into an academy for at-risk children, said such benefits as The Ultimate Tailgate Party will go toward much-needed services for the roughly 124 kids currently enrolled in the program at the Farm. Shipman said regardless of the needs of the kids at the Farm, he is there to ensure that they are taken care of. “Every child is made in the image of God,” he said. “Regardless of their problems or issues, all of them are worthy of every opportunity we can provide, regardless of their socio-economic backgrounds.”

On Nov. 6, cheer on the Horned Frogs at Amon Carter Stadium as the team takes on Utah, and make a difference in the life of a child at Happy Hill Farm. After all, anything is possible—especially for those children who are simply in need of a chance. fw

For more information contact Gail Cannon at 817.560.6141 or gcannon@fwtexas.com.

Support, Strength and SafeHaven

SafeHaven rebuilds domestic violence victims’ spirits through counseling and transitional programs, as well as fundraisers such as the Legacy of Women Awards Luncheon. by Ana Bak

The numbers are alarming and the statistics difficult to grasp—one in three women in the United States experience some form of domestic abuse during the course of their lifetimes. In 2006, there were 186,868 reported family violence incidents in Texas, according to the Texas Council on Family Violence. But, thanks to SafeHaven of Tarrant County, victims of domestic abuse are finding comfort, support and strength in times of desperation and vulnerability.

In 2007, after enduring abuse from her ex-husband for more than a decade, 31-year-old Tabitha White decided she’s had enough and turned to SafeHaven of Tarrant County.

“I stayed because I felt obligated to—for my children,” said White, who currently lives in SafeHaven’s transitional living program. Supporting herself with a stable job and her own home, she said SafeHaven has given her back the selfesteem she lacked for so many years. “I now believe that I am competent enough to do anything I want to,” White added.

Now that she’s back on her feet, she’s not holding back; White has a goal to go back to school to get her degree in biology and attend medical school so she can fulfill her dreams of becoming a physician. She said she plans to enroll in January.

“[SafeHaven offers] an awesome program. Whether it was food, shelter or legal aid, they took care of it,” she said. “It also helped establish my inner-me. I am a stronger person now.”

White is just one example of how SafeHaven is helping victims of domestic violence in Tarrant County and the surrounding areas. In the past year, SafeHaven has supported 2,500 women and children through their emergency shelters.

Mary Lee Hafley, CEO of SafeHaven of Tarrant County, said the program came about in 2006 with the merging of two organizations, Women’s Haven of Tarrant County and Women’s Shelter in Arlington. The two organizations, came together to form one organization with one mission—to end domestic violence.

The thing that makes SafeHaven unique, Hafley said, is that they have an emergency shelter program that is not limited to women and children in Tarrant County. “Anyone who needs safety and shelter can come here,” Hafley said. “We have a number of families who are here from other states.”

providing shelter / In the past year, SafeHaven of Tarrant County has supported 2,500 women and children who were victims of domestic violence through their emergency shelters.

Currently, there are two shelters, one in Arlington and the other in Fort Worth. SafeHaven also has two resource centers where victims can go for counseling and various other types of support, including legal aid.

Ashley Lind, vice president of Client Services, said if it weren’t for SafeHaven, the success rate of victims surviving would be lower. “Thirty years ago, women would have to go to their neighbors for support [because] there were no services they could rely on,” Lind said. “This caused the potential to be successful to be limited. But, today, there is a better shot of succeeding.”

In addition to their work, SafeHaven hosts an annual Legacy of Women Awards Luncheon. The luncheon, which recently celebrated its 16th year, was held Oct. 2 at the Fort Worth Convention Center.

The guest speaker, actress Patricia Heaton, was chosen for her achievements in her acting career, Hafley said, but also for her achievements as a woman.

The goal of the luncheon is to focus on the “legacy” that women create in the community. The purpose of the luncheon is to honor a wide variety of women who have done exceptional things in the Tarrant County area. “The goal is to bring a spotlight into the success of women in the community,” Hafley said. “These women become role models.”

This event was fitting for the month of October as it was domestic violence awareness month, Hafley said. All proceeds from the event go toward supporting the emergency shelter at SafeHaven. fw

The Dentist and the Dumb A …

About three weeks ago, I got a popcorn kernel stuck in my tooth. I picked and flossed and picked some more until I was sure it was out. After a day or two, my gums swelled and my tooth hurt. Fast forward to now, and I’m still reeling from the pain.

So yesterday I went to the dentist. You may not know this about me, but I’d rather poke myself in the eye with a hot fork than go sit in a dentist’s chair and have him come at me with sharp objects for purposes of scraping old food bits out of my teeth. My back teeth are especially sensitive (much like my personality), and I find that I spend most of my time clenching, gripping, grimacing and convulsing. … and that’s just in the waiting room.

I meant to get a Xanax from a family member before I went yesterday, but because I didn’t put it on my calendar, I forgot about it till I was driving to the dentist’s office. Too late now—I was going to have to go sober.

by Shauna Glenn

talk for “what the heck happened in here?” She scribbled notes in my chart, and I felt sure they were judging me.

And all of this was before the dentist even put anything in my mouth. I had warned him as he approached the chair that I am highly sensitive to anything related to dental equipment. So, he heeded my warning and promised me he would just “take a peek.”

After assessing the infected area, he thought it would be best to numb the area so I couldn’t feel him digging around in there. He was worried there was still food stuck in between two of my teeth. I told him to save it if he found any. There was no sense in wasting perfectly good food. I don’t think he appreciated my sense of humor because the next thing I knew, he was coming at me with a needle.

This column chronicles the adventures of a fictionalized character, is intended for comic relief only and should not be perceived as providing advice on parenting or marriage.

I was called back to the dreaded chair, where the assistant proceeded to fasten me in and drape me in the nice blue paper bib. OK. I wasn’t ‘fastened’ in the chair, but maybe I should’ve been.

She asked me what my problem was, and I began telling her: “I don’t know, I just seem to piss people off easily. I’m way too big for my britches, and I tend to speak without filtering what comes into my head. Oh, and I’m an incredible smart aleck—I blame my dad—but mostly, I just want to be loved.”

The assistant, who had a totally confused and somewhat frightened look on her face, said, “Um, I meant with your tooth.”

Ooohhh. Embarrassed, but not really (point proven about the non-filtering thing above), I explained about the whole ‘popcorn kernel’ incident. She told me to open my mouth and then I swear she gasped.

“What? What is it?” I asked.

She said, “It’s nothing. I’ll get the doctor.”

A few seconds later, the dentist appeared and panic began to set in with me. He had that look in his eye. The one that said, “I am SO gonna poke you in the mouth with very sharp objects, and I am going to LIKE IT!”

He put on blue rubber gloves and sat down next to me. “Open your mouth,” he instructed, and reluctantly I did. Over the next few minutes he made a lot of “uh-huh” sounds and rattled off gibberish that I assumed was dentist-

As he was jabbing me in the gum with Novocain, he asked, “So, how was your summer?”

Point to ponder: why do dentists ask you questions when they have both their fists and a couple of metal tools in your mouth? I’ve never quite understood the logic behind that.

So I answered, “ahhaa haa ahaaha.”

“Is that right?” he asked.

And then he said, “OK. Let’s wait for that area to get numb and then we’ll take a good look.” He and the assistant left the room, and I sat there, waiting for half of my face to fall asleep. After a few minutes, they returned and the dentist sat down again and asked me to open my mouth. It wasn’t so easy this time. I had no control over the left side of my face. It was weird.

But the good news was that I didn’t feel a thing. At one point, I think he even released a hound in my mouth to go and retrieve any lost or left-behind food.

When he finished, he told me to apply some topical antibiotic to the swollen gum, keep the area clean, and not to brush too hard. I made mental notes of his instructions. He also shared that he wanted to take an X-ray of the tooth just to make sure he wasn’t missing anything. OK, I thought. It’s not like I don’t have anything else to do. I’ve been here over an hour, but you want to keep me longer?

I realized then that I needed to go to the bathroom. I’d been holding it ever since I arrived, and now I couldn’t hold it any longer. I pushed the tray out of the way and started to get up when the assistant came back and said, “Time for your X-ray.” Defeated, I sat back in my chair and willed my bladder to hold on a few more minutes. Then, the assis-

tant came at me with a 3” x 3” piece of square film and proceeded to cram it into my smaller than 3” x 3” round mouth. My gag reflexes kicked in and suddenly I thought, “They won’t have to worry about me urinating in this chair because I will be hurling all over their dental equipment!” She coached me, “Breathe through your nose, breathe through your nose.” And I was like “how do I do that?” Panic set in again, and I thought for sure I was going to pass out. Why hadn’t I taken the time to get that Xanax? Help me Jesus! Help me Oprah! Help me Tom Cruise!

Then she instructed, “Hold still. … almost done.” And then she snapped the picture, I spit the film out, and she caught it before it flew up and hit the overhead light.

Please let me go. Just pull the tooth and let me go! I’ve got plenty more teeth, but this. … I can’t take this any longer! And I’ve got to go to the bathroom!

When she left the room again, I decided it was time to go. I didn’t need to know what the X-ray showed; I can’t read X-rays. It would just look like albino cockroaches standing in a line to me. I made my way to the bathroom and locked the door. I assumed the position and. … well. … you know the rest of that sentence.

After I was finished, I came out of the bathroom to find the dentist and the assistant waiting for me. He let me know my tooth would be fine and for me to enjoy the holidays. Whatever dude, I’m outta here.

I paid the bill, put on my sunglasses and headed out the door. I’d survived going to the dentist. I mean, granted, I couldn’t smile because half my face was paralyzed, but it was going to be a GREAT day. Everyone I passed on the way to my car smiled at me, and I tried my best to not look like I’d suffered a stroke. Once inside my car, I started the engine, cranked up the radio—Kiss’ Lick It Up was playing—and I began singing at the top of my lungs. Still, not easy to do when only half your mouth works, but whatever. Then I reached across to put on my seat belt and that’s when I noticed I was still wearing the paper bib.

So the real question is. … loser or trendsetter? fw

Mother of four and future best-selling author Shauna Glenn of Fort Worth can be contacted at shaunarglenn@gmail.com. Her first novel, Heaping Spoonful, is in bookstores now.

419

• AGS Turf Farm located in Riverbye, With 800 acres of 419 Tifway grass

• Overseed grass will be available through the winter months.

• Metroplex Deliveries available

• Call for your quality turf needs!

AGS

Turf Farms

419 Tifway Farm

Contact: Alma Rodriguez 940-437-2324 Office • 940-437-2413 Fax P.O.BOX 723 • Collinsville, TX 76233 agsturffarms@yahoo.com

These thick, juicy hamburgers are famous. Chosen as best hamburger in Tarrant County, Texas and the USA. Each mouthwatering burger is handmade from 8 ounces of natural USDA choice boneless chuck ground fresh daily on site. Kincaid’s, where friends meet to eat since 1946.

Cabinet contractor of choice to these fine builders:

• Adams and Polk Builders

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817-924-1604

by judie byrd

WorthCooking [ [

Let’s

Get Cooking

[ Sweet-Savory Venison Sausage ]

Olivia Eudaly is a terrific Fort Worth cook and hunter extraordinaire. She created this recipe to answer the yearly question, “What do we do with all this venison?” She said she shares this recipe with her girlfriends whose husbands are avid hunters, and believes that it’s a marriage saver, at least during hunting season. Olivia’s five children and 12 grandkids beg her to make this often, and she swears your family and friends will rave about it, too.

Sweet-Savory v eni S on Sau S age y ield: 6 servings

1 pound ground venison sausage

¾ cup chopped onions

1 cup maraschino cherries, sliced

¾ cup chopped dried apricots

1 apple, cored and chopped (about ¾ cup)

½ cup slivered almonds

½ cup raisins

1, 8-ounce can sliced water chestnuts, drained

1, 10-ounce jar apricot or peach preserves

2 tablespoons maple syrup, optional

direction S:

1. In a large skillet, place venison and onions; cook and stir until meat is browned. Drain off grease.

2. Stir in cherries, apricots, apple, almonds, raisins and water chestnuts. Add preserves and stir to create a glaze. Stir in maple syrup, if using, to create more sweetness and glaze. Serve over brown or wild rice.

Byrd is the founder of The Culinary School of Fort Worth and Super Suppers.

THANK YOU

2008 BLACK AND WHITE BALL

WorthDoing [ [

More than Mr. Tambourine Man

[ Roger McGuinn still knows how to rock ]

For those of us who remember when Bob Dylan teamed up with The Byrds for that unforgettable performance of Dylan’s hit song “Mr. Tambourine Man,” here’s your chance to rock out once more. On Nov. 21-22, Roger McGuinn of The Byrds will relive the days when rock was young during an intimate evening of classic hits at Bass Hall’s McDavid Studio (817.212.4280). This famous rocker has come a long way since the ’60s. Even though music continues to change and genres are redefined, this guitarist and banjo player continues to play the folk rock that put The Byrds on the road to superstardom. Discover how McGuinn has kept his music pure throughout the decades at this one-of-a-kind concert.

›› to list an event: Send calendar information to Fort Worth, Texas: The City’s Magazine, c/o Amy Hallford-Turman, assistant editor, 6777 Camp Bowie Blvd., Suite 130, Fort Worth, Texas 76116, or via e-mail to ahallford@fwtexas.com. Special consideration will be given to submissions that include photographs. To meet publishing deadlines, information must be received two months prior to monthly magazine issue.

symphonic pop / The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra presents a night of Swedish pop songs from the popular band, ABBA, of which current movie Mamma Mia is based.

celebrations & festivals

41ST ANNUAL FORT WORTH GREEK FESTIVAL, NOV. 7-9 >> Enjoy all of your favorite Greek foods, folk dancing, live music and children’s activities. St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 817.626.5578.

SUNDANCE SQUARE PARADE OF LIGHTS AND TREE LIGHTING, NOV. 28 >> See a captivating array of art and talent featured in floats, marching bands, and the downtown Christmas tree. You won’t want to miss the annual lighting event! Downtown Sundance Square, 817.255.5700.

music

CLASSICAL /jA zz

PETROUCHKA, THROUGH NOV. 2 >> The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra’s program includes Dances of Galánta by Kodaly, selections from Ranjbaran’s The Blood of Seyavash and Stravinsky’s Pétrouchka featuring Basil Twist’s lifesize puppets. Bass Performance Hall, 817.665.6000.

ANN HAMPTON CALLAWAY, NOV. 6

>> As presented by Bass Hall, Callaway will perform original jazz and pop songs in a beautiful and surprising alto-ranged voice. McDavid Studio, 817.212.4280.

MONTREAL GUITAR TRIO, NOV. 6

>> Fort Worth Classical Guitar Society presents a Canadian trio that plays classical, acoustic and world music with a wide array of instruments other than guitar. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 817.498.0363.

j OHN NAKAMATSU WITH GREG RADEN, NOV. 15 >> In celebration of their 20th anniversary season, the Chamber Music Society of Fort Worth has invited the renowned pianist and clarinetist to perform. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 817.877.3003.

VIENNA BOYS CHOIR, NOV. 17 >> The voices of the young will light up the faces of many with their purity and grace. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4280.

SEBASTIAN CURRIER, NOV. 19 >> Cliburn at the Modern presents an evening with a master of diverse chamber music. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 817.335.9000.

RAVEL PIANO CONCERTO, NOV. 21-23

>> The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra presents a magnificent night of piano features that will highlight music from such popular classics as the overture to

Candide by Bernstein. Bass Performance Hall, 817.665.6000.

TWO FRENCHMEN NAMED CLAUDE, NOV. 22 >> As part of the Fourth Saturday Concerts series, Claude Debussy and Claude Bolling perform a wide range of music from classical piano to jazz and swing. Fort Worth Community Arts Center, 817.303.4189.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS, NOV. 28-30 >> The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra presents Christmas favorites, including classic carols and sing-alongs, for all to enjoy. Bass Performance Hall, 817.665.6000.

COUNTRY/FOLK

BILLY BOB’S TEXAS >> Billy Bob’s Texas, 817.624.7117.

N OV. 1 >> Nashville Star Tour starring Melissa Lawson and finalists Gabe Garcia, Shawn Meyer and Coffey.

N OV. 8 >> Jake Owen

N OV. 14 >> Lost Trailers

N OV. 15 >> Jack Ingram

N OV. 21 >> Johnny Cooper

N OV. 22 >> Loretta Lynn

N OV. 28 >> Kevin Fowler

N OV. 29 >> Mark Chesnutt

“NASHVILLE STAR” TOUR, NOV. 1 >> Don’t miss your chance to see Arlington’s very own Melissa Lawson, winner of NBC’s hit show “Nashville Star.” Also on the tour are finalists Gabe Garcia and Shawn Meyer, among others. This rockin’ performance will feature a variety of modern and classic country songs. Billy Bob’s Texas, 817.624.7117.

GOSPEL COUNTRY SHOWCASE, NOV. 28 >> Local artists perform inspirational gospel mixed with the sounds of modern country for an unforgettable night of music. Grapevine Opry, 817.481.8733.

ROCK /BROADWAY

K.D. LANG, NOV. 5 >> One of the most diverse singer/songwriters around presents to the masses her wide catalogue of music. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4280.

ABBA: THE HITS—THE SYMPHONY TOUR, NOV. 7-9 >> The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra presents a night of Swedish pop songs from the popular band, ABBA, of which current movie hit Mamma Mia! is based. Bass Performance Hall, 817.665.6000.

STOMP, NOV. 11-16 >> Casa Manana presents the unrivaled percussion performances of Stomp. The night will feature everything from “noise,” to traditional and dance music. Bass Performance Hall, 817.332.2272.

DAVE ALVIN, NOV. 20 >> A pioneer of music, Alvin will play some of the best Americana you’ve ever heard throughout the years that has influenced rock through many generations. McDavid Studio, 817.212.4325.

ROGER MCGUINN, NOV. 21-22 >> The former lead singer of The Byrds will perform some of the classics and lots of brand new material for the enjoyment of old and new fans. McDavid Studio, 817.212.4325.

NEIL BERG’S 101 YEARS OF BROADWAY, NOV. 24 >> Ever wanted all of your favorite songs from Broadway in one show? Here it is—all the hits and performances from the best musicals ever shown on Broadway. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4280.

Comedy

NBC’S “LAST COMIC STANDING” LIVE TOUR, NOV. 19 >> Some of the most hilarious people to take the stage are coming to town. The finalists from NBC’s hit show “Last Comic Standing” will perform their best skits to have you howling by the end of the night. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4280.

TERRY FATOR, NOV. 25 >> After appearances on “America’s Got Talent,” “Oprah,” and the “Late Show with David Letterman,” Fator already has a wellestablished and rather impressive reputation and résumé. He more than lives up to his hysterical puppet act. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4325.

HYENA’S COMEDY NIGHT CLUB >> Hyena’s Comedy Night Club, 817.877.5233.

OCT. 31—NOV. 1 >> Carl LaBove NOV. 7-8 >> Gary Conrad NOV. 14-15 >> Theo Von NOV. 21-22 >> Ricky Guiterez FOUR DAY WEEKEND, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, YEAR-ROUND >> The popular improvisational comedy troupe performs skits and songs based on audience

suggestions. Four Day Weekend Theater, 817.226.4DAY.

museums

THE IMPRESSIONISTS, MASTER PAINTINGS FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, THROUGH NOV. 2 >> View some of the world’s most iconic works of the greatest Impressionist painters. The exhibit includes more than 90 paintings from the Art Institute of Chicago’s worldrenowned Impressionist collection. Kimbell Art Museum, 817.332.8451.

COWBOY ARTIST CHARLES RUSSELL, NOV. 8 >> Explore the American West through the eyes of Charles Russell and Fredric Remington and many other late 19th century artists. Also see a live interpretive performance of Nancy Cooper Russell, Charles’ wife, as portrayed by Roberta Atkins. Sid Richardson Museum, 817.332.6554.

MARY LUCIER: THE PLAINS OF SWEET REGRET, NOV. 15—FEB.15 >> A large presentation of Mary Lucier’s documentary about the falling population of the northern plains, this picture serves to inspire, and perhaps even frighten, everyone with music and images declaring the destruction of “Small Town U.S.A.” Features the artist herself as she tells of her experiences with different film mediums throughout her career. Amon Carter Museum, 817.738.1933.

STILLNESS IN TIME: TERESA HUBBARD AND ALEXANDER BIRCHLER, THROUGH JAN. 4 >> The first major survey of the artists in an American museum. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 817.840.2167.

SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY: THE ART OF ALFRED JACOB MILLER, THROUGH JAN. 11 >> This exhibition surveys the works of the first American artist to travel into the heart of the Rocky Mountains and capture the essence of the American West. Amon Carter Museum, 817.738.1933.

AFTER HOURS AT THE KIMBELL, SECOND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH, YEAR-ROUND >> Join other art and music lovers to listen to music, enjoy an exhibition tour and sip cocktails. Kimbell Art Museum, 817.332.8451.

FIRST FRIDAYS AT THE MODERN, YEAR-ROUND >> The first Friday of each month, the Fort Worth StarTelegram, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth and Café Modern team up to bring you live music and cocktails from 5 to 8 p.m. Docent-led, spotlight tour of the galleries at 6:30 p.m. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 817.738.9215.

FAMILY FREE FRIDAYS: NATIONAL COWGIRL MUSEUM AND HALL OF FAME, LAST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH, YEAR-ROUND >> Check out the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History for free. 817.255.9300.

CONNECT TO ART, YEAR-ROUND >> Presented by Amon Carter Museum, Connect to Art is a free, multiplevisit program for groups of adults with cognitive disabilities and their families and/or caregivers. Tours, which are available by request, are focused on building confidence in viewing and discussing art and discovering connections between the works and the participants’ lives. These visitors also complete writing and sketching activities in their own personalized art journal. Amon Carter Museum, 817.738.1933.

SID RICHARDSON MUSEUM, YEARROUND >> Through their collections, oilmen like Sid Richardson, Amon Carter, Thomas Gilcrease, Frank Phillips and R.W. Norton established a link to the romantic legends of the Old West. Sid Richardson Museum, 817.332.6554.

TEXAS CIVIL WAR MUSEUM, YEARROUND >> The Texas Civil War Museum is a nonprofit museum started by Texas oil and gas businessman Ray Richey. The museum features several permanent exhibits focusing on Civil War history and memorabilia. Texas Civil War Museum, 817.246.2323.

TEXAS COWBOY HALL OF FAME, YEAR-ROUND >> The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame honors Texas men and women who have excelled in the sports of rodeo and cutting. Each booth contains photographs and memorabilia, and many of the booths also have video. Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, 817.626.7131.

Sport S

NASCAR CRAFTSMAN TRUCK SERIES AND NASCAR SERIES, OCT. 30—NOV. 2 >> Texas Motor Speedway, 817.215.8522.

NOV. 1 >> O’Reilly Challenge NASCAR Series race

NOV. 2 >> Dickies 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup race

TCU BASKETBALL >> Student Recreation Center, 817.257.FROG

NOV. 19 >> vs. Nebraska

NOV. 26 >> vs. SMU

NOV. 29 >> vs. St. Gregory’s TCU FOOTBALL >> Amon Carter Stadium, 817.257.FROG.

NOV. 22 >> vs. Air Force

TCU SWIMMING AND DIVING >> Student Recreation Center, 817.257. FROG.

NOV. 7 >> vs. Colorado State

TCU VOLLEYBALL >> Student Recreation Center, 817.257.FROG.

NOV. 6 >> vs. Wyoming

NOV. 8 >> vs. Colorado State

TCU WOMENS’ BASKETBALL >> Student Recreation Center, 817.257. FROG.

NOV. 8 >> vs. Oklahoma City

NOV. 14 >> vs. Maryland

NOV. 16 >> vs. Texas-San Antonio

NOV. 20 >> vs. Texas-Arlington

NOV. 23 >> vs. Sam Houston State

NOV. 25 >> vs. Houston

TEXAS BRAHMAS >> NYTEX Sports Centre, 817.336.4ICE.

NOV. 8 >> vs. Odessa

NOV. 9 >> vs. Bossier-Shreveport

NOV. 14 >> vs. Bossier-Shreveport

NOV. 15 >> vs. New Mexico

NOV. 22 >> vs. Tulsa

NOV. 26 >> vs. Bossier-Shreveport

NOV. 28 >> vs. Oklahoma City

Stage

BLITHE SPIRIT, THROUGH NOV. 2 >> Laughter ensues when a novelist struggles with his second wife and the ghost of his first wife. Stage West, 817.784.9378.

SHAKESPEARE’S THE COMEDY OF ERRORS, NOV. 3 >> If you think one set of identical twins means trouble, then think of the problems you would have with two! In a tale of mistaken identity and absurd confusions, The Aquila Theatre Company presents one of Shakespeare’s first and finest comedies. Bass Performance Hall, 817.212.4280.

UNCLE DUZ CHRISTMAS, NOV. 13— DEC. 21 >> Christmas is a time for family and friends to rejoin in happiness and celebration. With hilarious anecdotes and stories to tell, everyone’s favorite uncle comes to the party in the new musical by Rogers and the Jubilee consortium. Jubilee Theatre, 817.338.4411.

A VERY MERRY UNAUTHORIZED CHILDREN’S SCIENTOLOGY PAGEANT, NOV. 20—DEC. 20 >> Most children’s Christmas pageants are the coming together of families and friends for the holidays, the birth of Christ, and the singing of carols, but not this year. See young

Dine. Shop. Explore.

Sundance Square is Fort Worth’s downtown entertainment and shopping district, featuring premier restaurants, outstanding retail shopping, live theater, museums, clubs, live music venues, and more – all in a unique setting of restored architecture and artistry dating from the dawn of the 20th century. Bounded by 2nd and 5th streets and between Throckmorton and Calhoun, Sundance Square offers free parking after 5 p.m. weekdays and on weekends in designated lots, or during the daytime with validation from a Sundance Square merchant. Come enjoy what Texas Monthly called “The hottest downtown in Texas,” and visit our Web site at www.sundancesquare.com.

Bass Performance Hall, named one of the world’s top ten opera houses by Travel & Leisure magazine, is one of the premiere venues in the United States for dance, theater, ballet, music and now… ventriloquism. On November 25, the Hall welcomes renowned ventriloquist Terry Fator, who, thanks to his 2007 win on the NBC reality show America’s Got Talent, recently signed a five-year, $100-million dollar deal with The Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas. Affectionately known as “The Human Jukebox,” the Dallas native can mimic up to 100 different personalities, from Garth Brooks to Etta James. Using more than a dozen puppets, Fator filters his impersonations through his wooden sidekicks, making them perfectly mirror their real-life counterparts. The Dallas Morning News says Fator has “brought ventriloquism to a new level.” For ticket information, please visit www.basshall.com or call (817) 212-4280.

Thomas Kinkade Gallery features the work of America’s most collected living artist and is currently celebrating his 25th anniversary in publishing. Coming from a modest background and as a devout Christian, Kinkade emphasizes simple pleasures and inspirational messages in his paintings. The gallery is owned by the artist and is managed by his family. It carries one of the nation’s largest collections of Kinkade limited edition prints, originals, and gift items. It has been located in the heart of Sundance Square for 13 years and has an experienced, knowledgeable staff ready to share the art and vision of this living master. Call for more information: 817-335-1140. The gallery is located at 302 Main Street.

Marie Antoinette says “Let them enjoy scentsational holiday gifts from Marie Antoinette’s.” Select from the most complete collection of Creed, Jivago, Herrera, Joy, Prada, Vera Wang and many other fine fragrances for men and women. Refresh your home with candles, scented reeds, waxed potpourri and many other home fragrance ideas. And, don’t forget we are your one stop shopping boutique for home spa ideas. We look forward to seeing you soon. Conveniently located across from the Renaissance Worthington Hotel at 101 W. 2nd St., Call 817.332.2888 for more information about our special holiday gifts. marieantoinettespa.com

Uno Chicago Bar & Grill Chicago’s original deep dish pizzeria is right in the heart of Sundance Square. Uno has surrounded its famous deep dish pizza with many colorful and exciting menu items. New favorites include Lemon Basil Salmon, Chicken Gorgonzola, Baked Stuffed Chicken, Classic Cobb Salad and organic flatbread pizzas. At lunchtime Uno offers a variety of items that will be served within ten minutes. Uno’s full service bar has many excellent signature drinks that compliment any meal. After the show, stop in for a slice of cheesecake or try Uno’s award winning Deep Dish Sundae. A fast and friendly staff is eager to serve you. For call ahead seating or to book a large party, please call 817-885-8667.

Tom Cruise, John Travolta, and founder of Scientology and fiction writer, L. Ron Hubbard, as they defend the planet from the evil alien Xenu in a riotous musical for the ages. Circle Theatre, 817.877.3040.

other attractions

APPALOOSA HORSE CLUB WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW, THROUGH NOV. 1 >> Don’t miss out on this one-ofa-kind championship show. Will Rogers Memorial Center, 817.392.7469.

2008 CHARITY DESIGNERS SHOWHOUSE, NOV. 1-16 >> Sponsored by Historic Fort Worth, Inc., a collection of local and national interior designers will create rooms akin to that of the Winterthur Mansion that will be showcased. 5101 Cliffrose Lane, 817.336.2344.

2008 LONE STAR INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, NOV. 12-16 >> Learn about the art and business of the silver screen, and view showcased artistic and cultural films from local filmmakers. Downtown Fort Worth at Sundance Square, 817.924.6000.

THE PEDDLER SHOW, NOV. 20-23 >> Furniture, hand-crafted jewelry, clothing, flowers and food will all be here to spark your interest for gift ideas. Arlington Convention Center, 817.459.5000.

JOEY WILKINS FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT, NOV. 24 >> More than 70 teams of four will participate in this day long tournament for the benefit of helping those who have been paralyzed due to spinal cord injury. Come out and show your support. DFW Airport’s Bear Creek Golf Course, 817.410.3194.

CANTON IN THE CITY HOLIDAY MARKET, NOV. 29-30 >> Crafts from local and national artists and exclusive

sellers will be here to help everyone on holiday gift excursions.

COWBOYS OF COLOR CULTURAL YOUTH HERITAGE SEMINAR, WEDNESDAYS, YEAR-ROUND >> National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame, 817.922.9999.

DANCE LESSONS, MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS, YEAR-ROUD >> Billy Bob’s Texas, 817.624.7117.

GRAPEVINE VINTAGE RAILROAD, VARIOUS DATES, YEAR-ROUND >> Rides are available from Grapevine to the Fort Worth Stockyards and from the Stockyards to 8th Avenue at the Trinity River. Stockyards Station, 817.625.RAIL.

HISTORIC FORT WORTH, INC. TOURS, YEAR-ROUND >> These tours include the Ball-Eddleman-McFarland House and the Thistle Hill House Museum. Historic Fort Worth, Inc., 817.336.2344.

OMNI THEATER AND NOBLE PLANETARIUM, YEAR-ROUND >> The Omni Theater has numerous exciting shows daily. Construction on the museum’s new facilities continues through Fall 2009. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, 817.255.9300.

STOCKYARDS CHAMPIONSHIP RODEO, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, YEAR-ROUND >> Rope, ride, race! Traditional rodeo fun for the whole family. Cowtown Coliseum, 888.269.8696.

STOCKYARDS DAILY CATTLE DRIVE, YEAR-ROUND >> The world’s only daily cattle drive. Fort Worth Stockyards, Exchange Street, 817.624.4741.

FORT WORTH WATER GARDENS, YEAR-ROUND >> Here, visitors can stand 38 feet below street level amid 1,000 gallons of water cascading down a 710-foot wall. That’s just one attraction! Fort Worth, 1502 Commerce St., 817.871.7698. fw

DDream Home 2008

900 Los Altos Trail

Own the 2008 Fort Worth, Texas magazine Dream Home. This gorgeous 6,100-square-foot Mediterranean-style home, built by Jefferies Custom Homes, sits atop a 1.32-acre, tree-covered lot nestled on a hilltop adjacent to a heavily wooded green space in the prestigious Palomar Estates development in Southlake. The spacious floor plan offers an impressive foyer with a grand staircase. The gourmet Wood-Mode kitchen, designed by The Kitchen Source, features two islands, a butler’s pantry, double ovens and a wine cellar. The opulent master suite is complete with a cozy fireplace and a luxurious master bath. Entertain year-round in the wellappointed outdoor pavilion equipped with a fireplace and an award-winning pool.

Save The Date

Join us to celebrate

The Joy of Life

in two events at The Ashton Depot November 13, 2008

Presenting Sponsor: Texas Oncology Reservations now available (817) 921-0653 Joy of Life Joie de Vivre Gozo del Vivir Gioia di

10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Interactive Cooking school highlighting flavorful healthy meals with Ashton Depot

Executive chef Carl MacPherson

Lunch Included

6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

An exquisite evening of fine Dining ~ Elegant Music Big Board Auction featuring Texas Wines and Executive chef Carl MacPherson

Benefiting

WorthTasting [ [

Taste Perfection

[ At The Keg Steakhouse & Grill ]

The word “keg” usually brings to mind frat parties and football games, but one Fort Worth eatery offers new meaning to the word. At The Keg Steakhouse & Grill (817.731.3534), you’re sure to experience a touch of elegance and a dash of refined taste. Start with The Keg’s specialty drink, The Caesar—a mix of vodka, The Keg’s very own Caesar special mix, a little Worcestershire and Tabasco sauce topped off with celery, a lime wedge and a cherry tomato. A tasty appetizer is the Ahi tuna, which is grilled rare with a mushroom reduction, delectable cucumber-wasabi sauce and crostini. You’ll be convinced you’ve tasted perfection until you sink your teeth into The Keg’s Teriyaki Sirloin Steak, which features their signature teriyaki sauce. With entrees to satisfy every taste, this Bryant Irvin-area hot spot redefines fine dining.

Your guide to the best places to eat in the Greater Fort Worth area

The Dining Guide

american

Arlington / Mid-Cities

CHeF Point CAFe >> 5901 Watauga Rd., Watauga, 817.656.0080. Eat gourmet in a gas station! Located inside a Conoco station, don’t expect white tablecloths in this cafe, whose motto is “Fill’er-up outside, fill’er-up inside.” This unique restaurant features everything from delicious burgers to stuffed steaks and lamb chops. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 7am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-8pm Sun. $ - $$

gArden CottAge teA rooM >> 5505 Davis Blvd., 817.656.9780. Escape to The Garden Cottage Tea Room inside Golightly’s Gallery in North Richland Hills. This graceful tea room has been serving tremendously light fare and decadent desserts: banana caramel pie, caramel pecan cheesecake and chewy butter cake, just to name a few — made from scratch — since 1985. This charming lunch or meeting spot, which is also available for special events, is the perfect place to grab a light lunch or enjoy a cup of tea. 11am-2pm Tue.-Sat. $

MAC’s BAr & grill » 6077 W. 1-20, 817.572.0541. The cuisine in this Chicago-style restaurant ranges from Southwestern to Cajun to American grill. Dishes include prime rib, shrimp or crawfish étouffée and even chicken fried steak. Mac’s maintains an upscale -casual atmosphere with white tablecloths, tulip lights, dark wood walls and candlelight. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

MArKet street » 5605 Colleyville, 817.577.5020. Good meals to eat in or take home. Good choices of breakfast, salads, pizzas and TexMex. Don’t forget the cobbler. 6am-10pm daily. $ no Frills grill » 4914 Little Rd., 817.478.1766. Other locations: 801 S. Main St., Keller, 817.741.6344; 2851 Matlock Rd., Ste. 422, Mansfield, 817.473.6699. Along with its doppelganger on Eastchase Parkway, No Frills Grill offers large portions at low prices. Video games, a pool table, a back patio and 80-plus screens make dining fun at all hours at this local sports bar. 11am-2am daily. $

olenJACK’s grille » 770 Road to Six Flags East, Ste. 100., 817.226.2600. Chef Brian Olenjack has developed an eclectic menu where there’s something for everyone. Try the chicken fried steak, so big you’ll have leftovers for days. 11am-10pm Mon.Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-8pm Sun. $- $$$ rose gArden teArooM » 3708 W. Pioneer Pkwy., 817.795.3093 The Rose Garden Tearoom is known for its flavorful rose tea and scrumptious bakeries. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into England. 10am-6pm Mon.-Sat.; noon-6pm Sun. $ tHe sAnFord HoUse » 506 N. Center St., 817.861.2129. The comfortable Victorian-style inn just north of downtown offers exquisite dining. Reservations requested. 11am-2pm Sun-Wed.; 6:30am10pm Thur.-Sat. $ - $$

soUtHern reCiPes grill » 2715 N. Collins St., 817.469.9878. A restaurant that offers up great atmosphere and a choice of chicken, seafood or steak. 11am-9pm Mon.-Fri.; 8am-11pm Sat. $ - $$

VentAnA grille » 7005 Golf Club Dr., 817.548.5047. Located inside the clubhouse at Tierre Verde Golf Club. Serves all meals, but a great pick for an evening out! 6:30am-8pm Sun.-Wed.; 6:30am10pm Thur.-Sat. $ - $$ Fort WortH

BillY Miner’s sAloon » 150 W. 3rd St., 817.877.3301. One of the first in downtown, you’ll find your favorite grill food, from burgers and fries to just about anything else. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 12pm-1am Fri.-Sat. $

BlUeBonnet CAFÉ » 2223 Haltom Rd., Haltom City, 817.834.4988. The only thing better than the breakfast — and not much is — is the pot roast. The Southern-style cooking is complemented by mementos from I Love Lucy 6:30am-2:30pm Mon.-Sat. $

CHArleston’s » 3020 S. Hulen St., 817.735.8900. You can get as casual as coaching shorts, though we’d suggest one think better of it. There’s nothing casual, though, about the hickorygrilled pork, Idaho rainbow trout and classic baby

back ribs. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. 11am-9pm Sun. $$

gAllerY Art CAFe » 609 S. Jennings Ave., 817.335.4646. The menu features American/Southwestern favorites, and the food is worth coming back for. 7am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 10am-2pm Sat. & Sun. $

tHe CoVeY restAUrAnt & BreWerY » 3010 S. Hulen St., 817.731.7933. The brewery features a seven-barrel microbrewery at its center. Lunch and dinner menus range from pizzas to entrees. 11am11pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-midnight Fri.-Sat. $$ - $$$

CUrlY’s CUstArd » 4017 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.763.8700. Cool down with a fresh frozen custard or try a milkshake—35 flavors to choose from! Enjoy on outdoor benches or drive thru. 11am-10pm Sun.Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

dixie HoUse CAFe » 3701 Belknap St., 817.222.0883. Other locations: 6200 E. Lancaster., 817.451.6180.; 5401 S. Hulen St., 817.361.8500. This family-operated restaurant is known for its chicken fried steak and homemade rolls. 6:30am-2pm Mon.Thur. & Sat.; 6:30am-8:30pm Fri. $

dreW’s PlACe » 5701 Curzon Ave., 817.735.4408.

A westside favorite for good home cooking. Excellent service and a friendly atmosphere. 10:30am7pm Tue.-Thur.; 10:30am-8pm Fri.-Sat. $ - $$

Fred’s texAs CAFe » 915 Currie St., 817.332.0083. This great music venue features innovative food combinations, from hamburgers to green chili pork roast with sweet potatoes and sourdough battered chicken-fried steak and gravy. The outdoor patio only adds to the attraction of the fun café. 10:30am-midnight Tue.-Sat.; 10:30am-9pm Sun. Closed Mon. $$

lUCile’s stAteside Bistro » 4700 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.4761. Where do we start—with tableside bananas foster for an entrée or fried green tomatoes with an incredible lobster bisque for dessert? Grazing and drinking in any order are popular sports at this favorite westside bistro. Lucile’s has brunch Sat. and Sun. and 40, yes, 40, great martinis. 11:30am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11:30am-11pm Fri.; 9am11pm Sat.; 9am-10pm Sun. $$

lUnCH Box » 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.2181. This westside lunch hot spot serves fabulous soups, salads and more. The colorful, flavorful menu will satisfy any taste. 11am-3pm Mon.Fri.; 11am-2:30pm Sat. $

MAsseY’s » 1805 8th Ave., 817.921.5582. Open since 1947, this place is an institution, built largely on its reputation for chicken-fried steak. There’s all-you-can-eat catfish on Wednesday and Friday nights, and steaks, seafood and salads. For dessert, try a slice of homemade pie. No frills in the ambiance—this is strictly casual dining. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-9:30pm Fri.; 11am-9pm Sat.; 11am3pm Sun. $

MontgoMerY street CAFÉ » 2000 Montgomery St., 817.731.8033. This is no-frills cooking at its finest. From omelets to chicken-fried steak, the menu includes fabulous Southern favorites. 6am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 7am-noon Sat. $ old neigHBorHood grill » 1633 Park Place Ave., 817.923.2282. Everyone knows everyone’s name in this appropriately-named grill. Fabulous breakfast entreés of pancakes and Belgian waffles are matched by an equally scrumptious lunch/dinner menu. 7am-9pm Mon.-Sat. $

ol’ soUtH PAnCAKe HoUse » 1509 S. University Dr., 817.336.0311. This place is hopping 24 hours a day, so if you get a craving in the middle of the night for German pancakes, slip on your fuzzy house shoes and join the party. Open 24 hours. $

oVAtion dining And entertAinMent » 6115 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.732.8900. This venue offers quality food and an extensive live music calendar. 6pm-11pm Wed.-Thur.; 6pm-midnight Fri.-Sat.; noon-10pm Sun.; Closed Mon.-Tue.$$ PAris CoFFee sHoP » 704 W. Magnolia, 817.335.2041. This Fort Worth institution has been serving up homemade breakfasts and lunches since 1930. 6am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 6am-11am Sat. $

PArK Hill CAFe >> 2974 Park Hill Dr., 817.921.5660. With a weekend menu that changes on a weekly basis, you can’t go wrong at this quaint cafe. On the regular weekly menu, try the Smoked Turkey Park Hill sandwich - smoked turkey, cranberry relish, coleslaw and spicy mustard on toast. Serves fabulous American cuisine in the evenings and a scrumptious Sunday Brunch. 10:30am-3pm Mon.-Sat.; 6pm-9pm Thur.-Sat.; 10:30am-1:30pm Sun. $-$$

PoP’s sAFAri rooM » 2929 Morton St., 817.334.0559. You’ll find just about any wine and a good cigar, but don’t forget the fine food in one of the two smoke-free dining rooms. Specializing in wild game, entreés feature beef tenderloin, crab cakes and more. 11:30am-2pm Tues-Fri.; 6pm-9pm Tue.-Sat. $$ - $$$

rise & sHine » 3636 Altamesa Blvd., 817.423.3555. Breakfast served all day, featuring 54 varieties of omelets and other goodies. The lunch menu is pretty tasty, too. 6am-2pm daily. $

seCret gArden teArooM » 2601 Montgomery St., 817.763.9787. Indeed a secret garden, the tearoom is nestled among 40 separate “shops” inside the Montgomery Street Antique Mall, which offers a unique casual dining experience. The menu features light sandwiches and a variety of salads, soups and quiche. And as the name implies, they carry a wide range of teas (might we suggest the apricot-mango?). 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 11am-4pm Sat.; noon-4pm Sun. $

snooKie’s » 2755 S. Hulen St., 817.207.0788. The menu at first seems typical of casual American cuisine until you hit Ostrich burger. If that doesn’t appeal, however, stick with cheese fries or any of the other five burgers. A fully stocked bar offers eight beers on tap—including Dos Equis Lager and Black and Tans—and four TVs to watch the big games. 11am-2am daily. $

texAs grill » 6550 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.377.0270. This casual Western-style restaurant is a real steal, with the most expensive entrée less than $7. The menu features unusual items, such as tuna salad with homemade dressing and chicken-fried steak topped with spicy queso. A dozen bottled beers are available, including Texas favorites Shiner and Lone Star. 11am-9pm daily. $

tHe rose gArden teA rooM » 7200 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.731.7673. The Rose Garden Tearoom is known for its flavorful rose tea and scrumptious bakeries. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into England. 11:30am-4pm Mon.-Sat.; noon-4pm Sun. $

ViCKerY CAFÉ » 4120 W. Vickery Blvd., 817.737.2277. Owner John Pendergrass offers a large breakfast menu at reasonable prices, as well as a lunch menu with such country favorites as chicken fried steak and fried catfish. Expect excellent service when you come here—the waitstaff has, on average, 15 years experience. 6am-3pm Mon.-Sat.; noon-6pm Sun. $

VidAliA’s At tHe WortHington » 200 Main St., 817.210.2222. With dishes ranging from fried green tomatoes to smothered pork chops, the cuisine at Vidalia’s is unequivocally Southern. Using such regional products as beef from Grandview and grits from Waco, Vidalia’s homestyle take on upscale cuisine is infused with a true taste of the South. 6am-10pm Mon.-Sun. $$

Westside CAFÉ » 7950 Hwy. 80, 817.560.1996. Enjoy Southern cooking served with Southern hospitality. The breakfasts are huge, the lunches are so good, and both will leave you needing/wanting a good Southern-style nap. 6am-10pm daily. $

tHe ZodiAC rooM At neiMAn MArCUs » 2100 Green Oaks Rd., 817.738.3581. A delightful dining adventure for lunch with excellent service. 10am-7pm Mon.-Sat.; noon-6pm Sun.$$

Keller/lAKe CoUntrY

HArBor one » 9315 Boat Club Rd., Lake County; 817.236.8150. The view from this restaurant is one of the best in the county. 10a.m.-6p.m. Wed.-Sun. $ roAnoKe

Most entrees under $10

Most entrees between $10-20

Most entrees $20 and over

BABe’s CHiCKen dinner HoUse » 104 N. Oak, 817.491.2900. A tradition among locals, Babe’s Chicken Dinner House offers Southern fried chicken, green beans, cream corn and salad with a sweet vinaigrette served family-style. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 4:30pm-9pm Mon.-Fri.; 11am-9pm Sat.; 10:30am-9pm Sun. $

ClAssiC CAFe » 504 N. Oak St., 817.430.8185. This cozy house comforts guests as they enjoy some truly fine casual dining. 5p.m.-9p.m. Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$-$$$

doVe CreeK CAFÉ » 204 S. Highway 377, 817.491.4973. If you’re looking for soul food/Southern cooking, the Dove Creek Café serves up a healthy helping, along with a friendly waitstaff and fellow patrons. 6am-8pm Mon.-Thur.; 6am-9pm Fri.; 6am-3pm Sat.; 6:30am-3pm Sun. $

PrAirie HoUse restAUrAnt » 304 S. Hwy 377, 817.491.4855. Open since 1999, this eclectic and authentic Texas-style eatery serves up mesquite-grilled steaks, killer baby back ribs, barbecue and other delicious options. Try the buffalo burger or the chicken-fried ribeye for a treat. With unique decor and a different theme at every booth, the atmosphere is as entertaining to the senses as the fare. 11am-10pm Mon.-Sun. $-$$

soUtHlAKe

CAFÉ exPress » 1472 Main St., 817.251.0063. Zagat’s called these numerous Texas cafés “The Mercedes-Benz of fast food eateries” because their sophisticated setting and fresh food belie their self-serve nature. Start with a large, chic salad, such as nicoise, shrimp & avocado and couscous, or indulge in the pasta amoré, which certainly lives up to its to-die-for name. Wine, beer, cappuccino and espresso are all available. 11am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$

tHe CHeeseCAKe FACtorY » 1440 Plaza Place, 817.310.0050. Since 1978, The Cheesecake Factory has been serving up something for everyone. From soups and salads to seafood and pasta dishes, the servings are always generous—and the desserts are always decadent. 11am-11pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am12:30am Fri.-Sat.; 10am-11pm Sun. $$

snooKie’s » 2801 E. Southlake Blvd., 817.488.2322. The menu at first seems typical of casual American cuisine until you hit Ostrich burger. If that doesn’t appeal, however, stick with cheese fries or any of the other five burgers. A fully stocked bar offers eight beers on tap—including Dos Equis Lager and Black and Tans—and four TVs to watch the big games. 11am-2am daily. $

x’s & o’s sPorting tAVern » 1239 Main St., Southlake, 817.251.6776. This place is not your typical sporting tavern. Both couples and singles can come for a romantic date or to enjoy the game. They serve everything from cheese sticks and burgers to seared chili-crusted tuna. 4pm-7pm Mon.-Thur.; 3pm-7pm Fri. $

WeAtHerFord

Fire Oak Grill >>114 Austin Ave., 817.598.0400. This delicious eatery serves up the best in Southwestern, American and down-home Southern cuisine. Savor the taste of a delicious steak cooked to perfection or let your taste buds devour the Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie. This BYOB grill is sure to leave you satisfied! Lunch: 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; Dinner: 5pm-10pm Mon.-Sat. $-$$

Arlington

Pei Wei » 2100 N. Collins St., 817.299.8687. Other locations: 4133 E. Cooper St., 817.466.4545. Part of the P.F. Chang family, Pei Wei offers the same great mix of Asian cuisine but in a far more casual setting. Their specialty dishes include coconut curries and Mongolian and spicy Korean fare, which you order at the counter. 10:30am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 10:30am10pm Fri.-Sat. $

PirAnHA’s Killer sUsHi » 851 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd., 817.261.1636. Other locations: Arlington

Highlands 309 Curtis Mathes Way, #149 817.465.6455 Sushi rolls, tempura and teriyaki dishes dominate an incredible menu of Japanese delights. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.; Noon-11pm Sat.; Noon10pm Sun. $$

SUKHOTHAI » 423 N. Fielder Plaza, 817.860.4107.

A tiny restaurant that serves healthy Thai cuisine. No MSG is found in the cooking here. Try the chicken satay or the steamed spring rolls. 11am-2pm, 5pm-9:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 5-9:30pm Sat. $

TASTE OF THAI » 2535 E. Arkansas Lane, 817.543.0110. This authentic Thai restaurant serves up fresh dishes daily. 11am-3pm, 4:30pm-10pm Mon.-Fri.; 11:30am-3pm,4:30pm-10pm Sat.; 11:30am9:30pm Sun. $

BEDFORD

THAI jASmInE » 3104 Harwood Rd., 817.283.8228. This wonderful Thai restaurant has some of the best Pad Thai one could ask for. Serves wine and beer. 11am-9pm Mon.-Sat.; 4:30pm-9pm Sun. $

FORT WORTH

ASIA BOWL & GRILL » 2400 Lands End, 817.738.1688. From Vietnamese and Korean to every possible variety of Chinese cuisine, the offerings on this menu are sure to please any palate. Fresh ingredients combined with complex flavors make this a fabulous dining experience. 11am-9:30pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

EDOHAnA HIBACHI SUSHI » 2704 S. Hulen, 817.924.1144. Other locations: 5816 S.W. Loop 820, 817.731.6002. Table-side food preparation is just part of the experience—a fabulous sushi bar includes many delicacies. 11am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm9:30pm Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-10pm Fri.-Sat.; $$

HUI CHUAn SUSHI, SAKE, TAPAS » 6100 Camp Bowie #12, 817.989.8886. This small, yet visually appealing, restaurant is full of surprises. Owner Hui Chuan Logan will not only remember your face, but maybe even what you ordered. With a wide variety of tapas and sushi, you are bound to find something that sounds appealing. 11:30am-2:30pm Mon.-Sat.; 5:30pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5:30pm-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 5:30-10pm Sun. $$

jAPAnESE PALACE » 8445 Camp Bowie West, 817.244.0144. Japanese décor and dark wood paneling transport you to Asia, as the hibachi chefs slice and dice your entrée right before your eyes. Sit at a cooking table, traditional American tables or try sitting authentically on the floor. Often busy, but reservations are not required. 5:30pm-10pm Sun.Thur.; 5:30pm-11:45pm Fri.-Sat. $$ - $$$

mY LAn » 4015 Belknap St., 817.222.1471. This Vietnamese restaurant serves multiple rice dishes with vegetables, meat and seafood, and there are more than 100 items on the menu. 9am-9pm Mon.Sun. Closed Wed.$

PEI WEI » 5900 Overton Ridge Blvd., 817.294.0808. Other locations: 2600 W. 7th St., Montgomery Plaza, 817.806.9950. Part of the P.F. Chang family, Pei Wei offers the same great mix of Asian cuisine but in a far more casual setting. Their specialty dishes include coconut curries and Mongolian and spicy Korean fare, which you order at the counter. 10:30am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 10:30am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

P.F. CHAnG’S » 400 Throckmorton, 817.840.2450. A gorgeous, upscale restaurant found across America, P.F. Chang’s believes food should be “fresh, contemporary and outstanding.” They mix traditional and modern Chinese Southeast Asian cuisine to form a vast menu complemented by an extensive wine list. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

PHO BELLA » 4023B E. Belknap St. Haltom City, 817.834.3552. If you’re looking for a Southeast Asian dinner, you’ll find Vietnamese delights, such as pho and vermicelli bowls. Don’t forget the Saigon pancake. 10am-9pm Tue.-Sat.; 10am-7pm Sun. $

PHO LITTLE SAIGOn » 6942 Green Oaks Blvd., 817.738.0040. Authentic Vietnamese cuisine at low prices is served up in a friendly atmosphere. 10am8:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 10am-3pm Sat. $

PHU LAm » 4125 E. Belknap St., 817.831.9888. The fare is updated and includes new choices in Vietnamese and Chinese food. 10am-10pm Sun.Sat. $ - $$

PIRAnHA’S KILLER SUSHI » 335 W. 3rd St., 817.348.0200. Sushi rolls, tempura and teriyaki dishes dominate an incredible menu of Japanese delights. 11am-10pm Mon.-Wed.; 11am-11pm Thur.; 11am-1am Fri.; Noon-1am Sat.; noon-10pm Sun. $$

ROnIn SUSHI & SAKE » 2600 W. Seventh St., No. 171, 817.332.0040. This novel sushi and sake bar is the new place to be seen. With contemporary

décor, a DJ booth, a private room with sunken floors and tables and all-natural ingredients, Ronin provides an impeccable mix of entertainment and cuisine. Pair the uni roll—fresh sea urchin—with the bar’s signature cocktail, sakitini, for an exotic meal. 11am-10pm Mon.-Sat. $-$$$

SOnnY’S DInER » 6220 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.732.7754. This Asian Bistro combines the flavors of Vietnam, Korea and Japan to generate a diverse and delectable menu. 11am-2 pm, 5 pm-8:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 11am-2:30pm Sat. $

SUSHI AXIOm jAPAnESE FUSIOn RESTAURAnT » 4625 Donnelly Ave. Ste. 101., 817.735.9100. Enjoy Japanese flavor combined with American flair in a stylish setting for a great sushi experience. 11am-10pm Mon.-Fri.; noon-10pm Sat.; noon-9pm Sun. $$

SZECHUAn » 5712 Locke Ave., 817.738.7300. Other location: 4750 Bryant Irvin Rd., Cityview Plaza, 817.346.6111. This Chinese favorite counts on high-quality food and service to keep patrons coming back for more. Enjoy the fresh and flavorful dishes in an elegant, yet casual, atmosphere. 11am10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

THAI TInA’S » 703 N. Henderson St. 817.332.0088. With a myriad of selections on its eccentric menu, this downtown restaurant lives up to its slogan, “A menu that’s simply to Thai for.” 11 am-9pm Mon.Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri-Sun. $$

TOKYO CAFE » 5121 Pershing Ave., 817.737.8568. This Camp Bowie hideaway delivers great sushi at reasonable prices. Please come casual. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

YOKO SUSHI >> 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd. Ste. 280. 817.737.4000. This new sushi restaurant offers their own version of the Ahi tuna tower—the DFW Tower. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm-10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $-$$

GRAPEvInE

EDOHAnA HIBACHI SUSHI » 1501 W. State, Grapevine, 817.251.2004. Table-side food preparation is just part of the experience—a fabulous sushi bar includes many delicacies. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5:30pm-10:30pm Fri.; 5pm-10:30pmSat.; 5pm-9:30pm Sun. $$

P.F. CHAnG’S » 650 W. Highway 114, 817.421.6658. A gorgeous, upscale restaurant found all across America, P.F. Chang’s believes food should be “fresh, contemporary and outstanding.” They mix traditional and modern Chinese Southeast Asian cuisine to form a vast menu complemented by an extensive wine list. 11am-11pm daily. $$

HURST

SWEET BASIL THAI CUISInE » 977 Melbourne Rd., 817.268.2899. This authentic Thai restaurant serves up high-end dishes without the high-end price. Delicious curries and soups are their trademark. 11am-9:30pm Mon.-Sat. $ - $$

SOUTHLAKE

BLUE BAmBOO CHInESE BISTRO » 480 W. Southlake Blvd. 817.748.0028. This chic little restaurant has one of the tastiest summer rolls in town. 11am-9:30pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10:30pm Fri.Sat. $-$$

KOBEYA jAPAnESE HIBACHI & SUSHI » 1230 Main St., 817.416.6161. Hungry for food and entertainment? Then Kobeya Japanese Hibachi & Sushi is the right place. Delicious food, wonderful service and Hibachi chefs to keep you smiling and amused. 11:30am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; noon-3:30pm Sat.-Sun.; 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm-10:30pm Fri.Sat. $$

PEI WEI » 1582 E. Southlake Blvd., 817.722.0070. Part of the P.F. Chang family, Pei Wei offers the same great mix of Asian cuisine but in a far more casual setting. Their specialty dishes include coconut curries and Mongolian and spicy Korean fare, which you order at the counter. 10:30am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 10:30am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

THAI CHILI » 215 Grand Ave., 817.251.6674. A Thailand setting with an American twist. They serve up beautifully prepared food that you can’t help but savor as it goes down. They also cater, so if you can’t join them, they’ll bring the party to you. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 12pm-11pm Fri.; 11am-9:30pm Sat.-Sun.$ - $$

BARBECUE

DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT » 817.289.0027. 5530 S. Cooper, 817.468.0898. 1801 Ballpark Way 817.261.6600. A Texas tradition since 1941 is now serving great Texas-style barbecue in Arlington. Offering eight slow-cooked meats and 16 freshly made vegetables. Dine-in, take-out, drive-thru and catering. 10:30am-8:30pm daily.$

nEOn mOOn BAR & GRILL » 309 Great Southwest Parkway, 817.633.5771. Owner Art Davidson has remodeled his neon-filled bar. A simple menu accompanies a full-service bar that offers three beers on tap and 20 bottled beers, including Texas-made Shiner. On Friday and Saturday nights, blues and classic rock live entertainment are the focus, and check out the Blues jam on Monday nights. 10am-2am Mon.-Sat.; Noon-2am Sun. $ RED HOT AnD BLUE » 1350 E. Cope;and Rd., 817.795.7427. Beef may be king here, but Memphis-style barbecue has taken our town by storm. Although pork is the house specialty, chicken and beef dishes are also available. 11am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$

FORT WORTH

AnGELO’S » 2533 White Settlement Rd., 817.332.0357. A big bear right inside the door invites you to big beers on the tables. But the big draw is the brisket, hickory-smoked out in back of this uncontrived institution that also serves chicken. No credit cards, but checks are welcome, and there’s an ATM in the building. 11am-10pm Mon.-Sat. $

COUSIn’S PIT BARBECUE » 6262 McCart Ave., 817.346.2511. Other location: 5125 Bryant Irvin Rd., 817.346.3999. Brisket, ribs, chicken and homemade sausage are the staples, along with cobblers and delicious cakes. A 21-year family-run business, Cousin’s has opened up a third location in Keller as a drive-thru/take-out hot spot. 11am-9pm Mon.-Sat. $

DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT » 451 University Dr., 817.231.8813, Other locations: 5724 Bryant Irvin, 817.361.1034. 1000 N.E. Loop 820, 817.289.0027. 1989 Colonial Parkway, 817-759-7500. A Texas tradition since 1941 is now serving great Texas-style barbecue in Fort Worth. Offering eight slow-cooked meats and 16 freshly made vegetables. Dine-in, take-out, drive-thru and catering. 11am-8pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am9pm Fri.-Sat. $

RAILHEAD SmOKEHOUSE » 2900 Montgomery St., 817.738.9808. One of the most popular barbecue spots in Fort Worth, but we live for the homemade French fries. It sometimes gets so crowded you have to use the satellite parking lot across the street. 11am-9pm Mon.-Sat. $

RED HOT AnD BLUE » 3000 S. Hulen St., 817.731.8770. 9143 Grapevine Hwy., 817.605.1333. Beef may be king here, but Memphis-style barbecue has taken our town by storm. Although pork is the house specialty, chicken and beef dishes are also available. 11am-9pm Sun.-Wed.; 11am-10pm Thur.-Sat. $$

RISCKY’S » 6701 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.989.1800. 300 Main St., 817.877.3306. 2314 Azle Ave., 817.624.8662. 9000 U.S. 377, Benbrook, 817.249.3320. A legend in Texas since 1927, Riscky’s secret is the way that the meat is smoked. All of their meat is hand-trimmed, rubbed with “Riscky dust” and then naturally smoked for hours in wood-burning pits. The historic Stockyards location offers a spacious patio that is the perfect place to sit back and watch the daily longhorn cattle drive. 11am-9pm Sun.-Mon.; 11am-10pm Tues.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

THE SmOKE PIT » 2401 E. Belknap St., 817.222.0455. This BBQ joint has various types of smoked meats and is great for dine-in or to have cater your next party. 10:30am-8pm Mon.-Fri.; 10:30am-6pm Sat. $-$$

TRAILBOSS BURGERS » 140 E. Exchange Ave, 817.625.1070. Same owners but a new concept. This restaurant, formerly part of the Riscky’s chain, focuses on what it does best, burgers. 11am-7pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-9pm Fri.; 11am-10pm Sat $ -$$

HURST

DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT » 1858 Precinct Line Rd., 817.656.0200. A Texas tradition since 1941 is now serving great Texas-style barbecue in Fort Worth. Offering eight slow-cooked meats and 16 freshly made vegetables. Dine-in, take-out, drive-thru and catering. 11am-9pm daily$

BRA ziliAn

FORT WORTH

TEXAS DE BRAZIL » 101 N. Houston St., 817.882.9500. The meat never stops coming as waiters dressed as gauchos go table to table offering it on swords. Between the all-you-can-eat unique

salad bar and selection of 14 meats, you’ll need to be wheeled out of this upscale restaurant. 5pm10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-2pm & 5pm-10:30pm Fri.; 4pm-10:30pm Sat.; 4pm-9pm Sun. $$$

GRAPEvInE

BOI nA BRAZA » 4025 William D. Tate, 817.329.5514. Tasty food served with Brazilian flair. Offers constant choices of meat by servers at your table. 5pm-10pm Mon.-Sat.; 5pm-9pm Sun. $$$

BURgERs & sAndwiChEs

ARLInGTOn

AL’S HAmBURGER’S » 1001 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd., 817. 275.8918. The place is an institution in north Arlington. The burger joint serves up delicious hamburgers and other good fast food. 6:30am-10:30pm Mon.-Sat. $

CAPTAIn BILLY WHIZZBAnG’S » 2406 W. Park Row Dr., 817.861.9498 A burger and fries treat with excellent onion rings. It’s a hot spot for lunch and a quick dinner. 10:30am8pm Mon.-Sat. $

CHAPPS » 2045 N. Hwy. 360, 817.649.3000. Other locations: 153 Southwest Plaza (1-20 & Little Road), 817.483.8008. 2596 E. Arkansas, 817.460.2097. Cheeseburgers, Baby Chapps, mushroom burgers and jalapeño burgers (among others) are cooked to order from freshly bought meat served on freshly baked buns. A large menu stuffed with Philly cheese-steak sandwiches, fried okra, stuffed jalapeños and chicken strips means you’ll never eat the same thing twice. 11am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-9pm Fri.-Sat. $

FORT WORTH

B.j. KEEFERS » 909 W. Magnolia Ave., 817.921.0889. Keefers is a favorite quick lunch spot for medical district professionals. You’ll find a wide menu and baked goods that are homemade onsite. Casual is the key word—order at the counter and then build your own sandwich at the condiment bar. There’s a happy hour, too. 10:30am-8:30pm Mon.-Fri. $

CHAPPS » 6219 Oakmont Blvd., 817.263.5172. Cheeseburgers, Baby Chapps, mushroom burgers and jalapeño burgers (among others) are cooked to order from freshly bought meat served on freshly baked buns. A large menu stuffed with Philly cheese-steak sandwiches, fried okra, stuffed jalapeños and chicken strips means you’ll never eat the same thing twice. 11am-9pm Sun.-Thu.; 11am-9pm Fri.-Sat. $

DUTCH’S » 3009 S. University Dr. 817.927.5522. Chef Grady Spears is at it again with his newly opened burger joint. Laid back atmosphere with good-tasting burgers and fries. 11am-9pm Mon.Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-3pm Sun. $

THE GREAT OUTDOORS » 3204 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.877.4400. Try one of three gourmet breakfast subs filled with choices of eggs, ham, pastrami, cheddar, Swiss or cream cheeses. Lunch subs abound, topped with the usual meats and served on fresh preservative-free sub rolls. Great stop on a summer day after the park or the museums. 9am-9pm Mon.-Sat.; 10am-8pm Sun. $

KInCAID’S » 4901 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.732.2881. Other location: 4825 Overton Ridge Blvd., 817.370.6400. There are those who will swear this is the best burger in the country, and the lunchtime line of parked cars that stretches two to four blocks in every direction of this old grocery store is a testament to both the legend and the taste. Enjoy at picnic tables inside or at stand-up counters. Frills would seem unnecessary. 11am-8pm Mon.-Sat. $

THE LOvE SHACK » 110 E. Exchange Ave., 817.740.8812. Tim Love’s latest concept is far removed from his fine dining restaurants, but the food’s just as good. Try the love burger, it’s one of Tim’s favorites. 11am-8pm Sun.-Wed.; 11am-10pm Thur.; 11am-1am Fri.-Sat. $

PAPPA’S BURGERS » 2700 W. Freeway. 817.348.8273. From the same group that brought Pappadeaux and Pappa’s Steaks, Pappa’s Burgers is the newest addition to the family. Try the blue cheese burger. You won’t be disappointed. 11am10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $-$$

THE POUR HOUSE SPORTS GRILL » 209 W. 5th St., 817.335.2575. The Pour House offers a little bit of everything from sports bar munchies to steaks, which can be washed down with one of 25 bottled beers. Enjoy the spectacular view of downtown on Wednesday during karaoke, Thursday with the Top 40/Rock DJ or weekends with a live band. 11am-2am daily. $ PURPLE COW DInER » 4601 W. Freeway, 817.737.7177. The Cow has standard burgers, fries and ice cream sundaes with all that finger junk kids like to track all over the table. Yes, playing with the condiments is okay. 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun.-Thu. $

TOmmY’S HAmBURGERS » 2701 Green Oaks Rd. 817.735.9651. Other locations: 5228 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.569.1111. 3431 W. 7th St., 817.885.7500. Noted, obviously, for excellent burgers, Tommy’s serves up mouthwatering daily specials, including a fabulous chicken-fried steak. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thu.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-8pm Sun. $

southlake

johnny b’s burgers & shakes » 2704

E. Southlake Blvd., Southlake, 817.749.0000. This joint takes pride in their signature sweet sourdough bun, premium Texas beef, handcut fries and much more. try one of the olf fashioned shakes. 10:30am-8:30pm Mon.-Thur.; 10:30am-9pm Fri.-Sat.; 10:30am-3pm Sun.$

continental

arlington

CaFÉ at DaireDs » 2400 W. I-20 ., 817.465.9797. Serving lunch in a casual, energetic setting, The Café at Daireds offers a variety of upscale entrées, salads and homemade soups. The Café treats with gourmet three-course prix fixe menu that changes weekly and a fully stocked bar. 9am-6pm Mon.; 9am-9pm Tue.-Thur.; 9am-6pm Fri.; 8:30am-5:30pm Sat.; noon-6pm Sun. $ - $$

Fort Worth

CaFÉ asPen » 6103 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.0838. This westside favorite includes a fish menu that changes regularly, and the rack of lamb alone would merit a return visit. Go casual or dressed to the nines—either way, you’ll fit in. The ambiance becomes even more elegant at night with candlelight. An adjoining full bar offers a high-end well. A fabulous patio is open seasonally. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm-9pm Mon-Sat. The bar opens at 11am and closes one hour after the kitchen. $$

CaFÉ ashton anD Piano bar » 610 Main St., 817.332.0100. The café delivers stunning upscale new American cuisine with showmanship on the plate and elegance in the décor. Executive Chef Ismael Rojas offers an excellent menu of tasty foods—from Chilean sea bass to lamb. 6:30am9pm daily. $-$$$

delis & bakeries

arlington

reD oVen » Bowen & Park Row, 817.274.1423. This French bakery prepares fresh artisan breads daily. Best known for their wonderful Red Velvet, Black Forest and Italian Cream cakes. 8:30am-6pm Tue.-Fri.; 8:30am-5pm Sat. $$ Fort Worth

artisan baking CoMPany » 4900 White Settlement Rd., 817.821.3124. Now the award winning breads and scones from the bakers of Cowtown Farmers Market can be purchased at Fort Worth’s only independent artisan baker. Locally made sourdough, focaccia, multi-grain, cinnamon, roasted garlic, and breakfast bread as well as scones and abundant sweets are now year-round purchases. 9am-5pm Tue.-Fri., 8am-noon Wed. & Sat. at the Farmer’s Market. $ baker bros. aMeriCan Deli » 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.989.1400. Baker Bros. serves up only the finest quality breads, meats and cheeses. 11am-9pm daily. $ bluebonnet bakery » 3905 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.731.4233. Consistently chosen as one of the city’s finest bakeries, while their lunch crowd continues to grow. Try a homemade petit four, and you will quickly become a regular. 7am-6pm Mon.-Fri.; 7am-4pm Sat.. $

Carshon’s DeliCatessen» 3133 Cleburne Rd., 817. 923.1907. Open since 1928, so you know they’re doing something right. Choose from their big specialty sandwiches, such as the Rebecca, Rachel or Ruthie, homemade soups and chili and homemade pies, including chocolate, butterscotch or pecan. 9am-3pm Mon.-Sat. $ the CuPCake Cottage » 5015 El Campo Ave., 817.732.5670. This bakery is heaven for anyone with a sweet tooth. Five different flavored cupcakes every day. 10am- when the last cupcake is sold. Tue.-Sat. $

esParanZa’s MeXiCan CaFÉ & bakery » 2122 N. Main St., 817.626.5770. 1109. Other location: Hemphill St., 817.332.3848. The Lancarte family has yet another hit with this cafe and bakery, where a fabulous brunch, traditional Mexican dishes and fresh-baked pastries are the norm. Breakfast is served all day on weekends. 6:30am-7pm daily$ kolaChe shoPPe » 6724 Brentwood Stair Rd., 817.457.0071. Be sure to visit this longtime purveyor of delicious kolaches, muffins, fritters and more. 6am-noon Tue.-Sat.; 7am-noon Sun. $ MCkinley’s Fine bakery & CaFe » 1612 S. University Dr., 817.332.3242. This cafe is a great place for friends to meet to catch up on

old times. Our bakery is made from scratch right here in house. We use 100% real butter and never bake from mixes or add preservatives. Try the pecan-crusted chicken salad. 8am-6:30pm Mon.Sat., 11am-5pm Sun. $

Panera breaD » 1700 S. University Dr., 817.870.1959. Other location: 1804 Precinct Line Rd., 817.605.0766. The word “bread” is deceiving, although there’s plenty of it. Think more along the lines of “Big Fat Sandwich and Dessert.” 6:30am-9pm Mon.-Sat.; 7am-8pm Sun. $

the snooty Pig » 2401 Westport Parkway, 817.837.1077. Other locations: 1540 Keller Parkway, Keller, 817.431.0064. Great breakfast stop, also good for lunch. Don’t get away without trying the famed muffins, baked daily. 6am2pm Mon.-Fri., 7am-noon Sat.; 8am-2pmSun. $

sWiss Pastry shoP » 3936 W. Vickery, 817.732.5661. A Fort Worth tradition for 30 years, the shop serves a traditional breakfast, as well as lunch. And they are rumored to have the best German sausages in town. 6:30am-5:30pm Tue.-Fri.; 7:30am-4pm Sat. $

Weinburger’s Deli » 6801 Rufe Snow Dr., 817.416.5577. Other location: 3 Village Circle, Westlake, 817.491.9119. 611 Main St. Grapevine., Weinburger’s Deli specializes in quality meats and cheeses. They also offer a variety of fresh salads. 8:30am-7pm Mon.-Sat.; 11am-3pm Sun. $

yogi’s bagel CaFe » 2710 S. Hulen St., 817.921.4500. The best bagels in Fort Worth come from this eclectic eatery that hosts a killer breakfast. Later in the day, choose from a truckload of salads with a cup of the house specialty, borscht. Come ready to stand in line on Saturday and Sunday mornings. 6:30am-9pm Mon.-Fri.; 7am-9pm Sat.; 7:30am-3pm Sun. $

graPeVine

Main street breaD baking CoMPany » 316 Main St., 817.424.4333. Located in historic downtown Grapevine, Main Street Bread Baking Company offers quality baked goods, including fresh breads and decadent cakes and desserts. With offerings like Grand Marnier cake, an orange liqueur cake filled with a light orange cream and garnished with whipped Italian butter cream, it’s easy to see why this cafe and bakery has become a favorite among locals. 6:30am-6:30pm daily$

the snooty Pig » 4010 William D. Tate, 817.283.3800. Great breakfast stop, also good for lunch. Don’t get away without trying the famed muffins, baked daily. 6:30am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 7am-2pm Sat.-Sun $

southlake

baker bros.aMeriCan Deli » 2820 E. Southlake Blvd., 817.748.3354. Baker Bros. serves up only the finest quality breads, meats and cheeses. 11am-9pm daily. $

eclectic

arlington

My Martini Wine & bistro » 859 N.E. Green Oaks Blvd., 817.461.4424. The incredible tapas menu is almost as tempting as the drink list, which includes the signature Brady martini, made with pickle brine and a dill pickle spear. 3:30pm-11am Sun.-Thur.; 3:30pm-1am Fri.-Sat. $$ Fort Worth

8.0 restaurant & bar » 111 E. Third St., 817.336.0880. The Jell-O shot pioneer of the 1980s is still a cool drinking spot, where martinis now rule. 8.0 continues to feed eclectic tastes from a full menu, and the dinner hour lasts late for theater-goers. This art bar offers great jazz and blues under the stars on the patio, which seats 350. Every wall is handpainted by local artists. 11am-10pm

Mon.-Tue.; 11am-1am Wed.; 11am-2am Thur.-Fri.; noon-2am Sat.; 10am-2am Sun. $$

CaFÉ MoDern » 3200 Darnell, 817.840.2157. The Modern Art Museum features a restaurant with grilled salmon with melted citrus butter, beautiful desserts and a Sunday brunch that is a must. Reservations are recommended for parties of five or more. 11am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 11am-3pm Sat.-Sun. $$

the graPe esCaPe Wine bar » 500 COMMERCE ST., 817.336.9463. Relax and unwind with a glass of wine and some goat cheese and portobella potato skins at this fun wine bar in Sundance Square. 3pm-11pm Mon.-Thur.; 3pm-midnight Fri.-Sat.; 3pm-10pm Sun. $-$$

kiMbell art MuseuM » 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.332.8451, ext. 251. Unlike the works here at one of the nation’s primo art museums, the menu changes every day in the kitchen, where the

staff turns out creatively crafted sandwiches, salads and soups, including a killer gazpacho. Matisse sculptures give an aristocratic flair; Friday night dinner features live music. Lunch 11:30am-2pm Tues.-Thur. & Sat.; noon-2pm Fri. & Sun.; Dinner 5:30pm-7:30pm Fri. $$

lili’s bistro >> 1310 W. Magnolia Ave. 817.877.0700. This quaint bistro focuses on tradition. Start with the Gorgonzola fries and move on to the Spinach & Mushroom grilled chicken. Delicious! 11a.m.-2:30p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 5:30p.m.-9p.m. Wed.-Thur.; 5:30p.m.-10p.m. Fri.-Sat. $$

M restaurant » 215 University Dr. This upscale fusion restaurant serves up a wide array of culinary favorites, including juicy filet mignon cooked to perfection. The fare can be described as creative, contemporary cuisine in a modern, edgy atmosphere. 5pm-11am Mon.-Sun.; 10:30pm-2am Fri.-Sat. $$-$$$

sPiral Diner » 1314 W. Magnolia, 817.332.8834. At this 100 percent vegan and mostly organic restaurant, you can find nearly anything you could desire on the menu. Fresh-tasting and affordable, don’t forget about their wide variety of juices and smoothies. 11am-10pm Tue.-Sat.; 11am-5pm Sun. $

ZaMbrano Wine Cellar » 910 Houston St., Ste. 110, 817.850.9463. With a menu featuring more than 200 wines, this wine bar should be a priority for all wine lovers. 3pm-11pm Mon.-Thur.; 3pm-1am Fri.; 4:30pm-1am Sat. $-$$

southlake

sanDella’s CaFÉ » 1245 Prospect St., 817.421.0727. Finally, a place to eat delicious food without the worry of calorie counting. This family-owned restaurant spices up delicious sandwich wraps, such as the Chicken Verona or the flatbread pizza. With their relaxing European atmosphere, you’re likely to stay not only for the food, but the free Internet, as well. 9am-7pm Mon.-Sat. $

ethnic

Fort Worth

boMbay grill » 4625 Donnelly Ave., 817.377.9395. This Indian restaurant serves up classics like Tandoori and garlic naan (flatbread). 11am2pm & 5:30pm-10pm daily. $

byblos » 1406 N. Main St., 817.625.9667. Owned by a member of the same family who owns Hedary’s, this Stockyards restaurant serves the same great Middle Eastern fare. Don’t miss Friday nights, the day that brings bellydancing into the Stockyards. 11 ChaDra MeZZa & grill >> 1622 Park Place. 817.924.2372. Creative dishes featuring spicy Lebanese food and homemade Italian. 11 am-3 pm, Mon.-Tues; 11 am-10pm, Wed.-Sat. $-$$

heDary’s » 6323 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.731.6961. Tucked into a shopping center just off the road, Fort Worth’s other Lebanese eatery includes the best hummus we ever put a lip to. Enjoy the Frarej chicken, baked with potatoes and tomatoes in olive oil, garlic and lemon juice. 11am-10pm Sun.; 11am-10pm Tue.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.; 5pm-11pm Sat.; Closed Mon. $

king tut » 1512 Magnolia Ave., 817.335.3051. The Middle East meets the Mediterranean to bring us an alternative Egyptian restaurant. Try one of many healthy dishes including falafels, hummus and tabbouleh. Prices suggest that attire is formal, but the atmosphere mandates a casual look. 11am2:30pm Mon.-Sat. 5:30pm-9pm Mon.-Sat. $$

Maharaja » 6308 Hulen Bend Blvd., 817.263.7156. This restaurant has a large menu offering many different Indian dishes, such as Chicken Makahani. The breads with curries are especially good. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 11:30am2:30pm Sat.-Sun.; 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thu.; 5pm10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$

french

arlington

CaCharel » 2221 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 910, 817.640.9981. Rock-solid French fare that has evolved into just about the finest in the county. The three-course fixed price dinner runs a happy gamut between lobster and ostrich, or have a steak cut to order. The place is peaceful elegance, high above Six Flags with a great view. You won’t get off

cheaply, but you won’t be disappointed. 11:30am2pm & 5pm-10pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-10pm Sat. $$$

FORT WORTH

BISTRO LOUISE » 2900 S. Hulen St. Suite 40, 817.922.9244. Voted Best French in Tarrant County. Chef Louise Lamensdorf frequently travels to Europe for inspiration, which returns to Cowtown in the form of superior sauces and excellent wine selections. It has a romantic, relaxed atmosphere that welcomes a lust for food. Their Sunday brunch is quite possibly the best in town! 11am-2pm Mon.Sun.; 5:30pm-9pm Tue.-Thu.; 5:30pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$ $

LA MADELEINE » 6140 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.732.4656. Other locations: 305 Main St., 817.332.6099. 2101 N. Collins St., Arlington, 817.461.3634. 4201 S Cooper St., Arlington, 817-4175100. 900 Hwy. 114 W., Grapevine, 817.251.0255. Croissants, pastries, soups, salads and more are served in a charming European atmosphere. Camp Bowie 6:30am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 6:30am-11pm Fri.Sat. ; 6:30am-8pm Sun.-Thur.; 6:30am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; HW114 6:30am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 6:30am-10pm Fri.Sat.; Collins and Cooper 6:30am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 6:30am-11pm Fri.-Sat.$

SAINT-EMILION » 3617 W. 7th St., 817.737.2781. Well-concocted country French dishes, including duck, lamb, steak tartare and fresh fish. Full bar. 6pm-10pm Tue.-Sat. $$ $

german

FORT WORTH

EDELWEISS CAFÉ » 3801 Southwest Blvd., 817.738.5934. A German food anchor in West Fort Worth for 32 years. Family operated with emphasis on fun and food, Edelweiss offers Bavarian charm and substantial fare. Dance to a live German band, complete with ritual chicken dance. 5pm Tue.-Sat. $$

GREENWOOD’S » 3522 Bluebonnet Cir. 817.921.6777. A great place to venture out and try some traditional German cuisine. 4pm-9pm Tue.Thur.; 4pm-10 pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-3pm Thur.-Fri.. $$

greek

FORT WORTH

CAFÉ MEDI » 420 Grapevine Hwy., 817.788.5110. This authentic Greek restaurant offers only the freshest and homemade recipes, including Greek salad, gyros and tasty hummus and flatbread. 11am2:30pm, 5pm-10pm Tue.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun. $

GREEK HOUSE » 2426 Forest Park Blvd., 817.921.1473. Gyros, souvlaki and more in a counter pickup eatery just right for TCU students with a need for study and sustenance. Food is fresh, well prepared and promptly presented for customer pickup. 11am-8pm Mon.-Sat. $

JAZZ CAFÉ » 2504 Montgomery St., 817.737.0043. Funky, laid-back service and atmosphere with dependable Tex-Greek food and great music. House band plays fine jazz on Sunday. Sunday champagne brunch. 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 9am-3pm Sat.; 9am2pm Sun. $

italian

ARLINGTON/MID-CITIES

BIRAPORETTI’S » 668 Lincoln Square, 817.265.0588. Birraporetti’s is a perfect spot for an elegant meal. Offering pastries, breads and fine Italian food, this restaurant features live jazz and a special brunch menu served from 11am-11pm. Sun.-Mon. & Wed.-Thur.; 11am-12:30am Tues.; 11am12am Fri.-Sat.$$

ITALIANNI’S » 1601 Precinct Line Rd., Hurst, 817.281.7272. This quaint Italian bistro includes the genre standards, as well as some creative dishes like three-pepper calamari. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thu.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$ LA BISTRO » 722 Grapevine Hwy., Hurst 817.281.9333. Enjoyable menu with excellent pastas and other traditional menu items, including seafood. 11am-10pm Sun.-Fri.; 5pm-11pm Sat. $$ NIZZA PIZZA » 1430 S. Cooper, 817.274.5222. This innovative family pizza place has customers

Adam Jones, the driving force behind two landmark Fort Worth restaurants, returns to downtown with GRACE – a dining experience like no other in the city. Known as “the city’s host” for unparalleled levels of service and hospitality, Jones brings his personal touch to his new home. GRACE. The restaurant Fort Worth has been waiting for. Opens November 2008.

777 Main Street • Downtown • 817.877.3388 • gracefortworth.com

lining up around the block. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thu.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

PALIO’S PIZZA CAFÉ » 5712 Colleyville Blvd., 817.605.7555. This pizza café offers interesting and high-end pizza toppings. 11am-10pm daily. $

PICCOLO MONDO » 829 E. Lamar Blvd., 817.265.9174. Don’t let the strip-center dining surprise you. Excellent service and inviting atmosphere. 5:30pm-10:30pm Mon-Thu.; 11:30am2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 5pm-10pm Sun. $ - $$

RUGGERI’S RISTORANTE » 32 Village Lane, Colleyville, 817.503.7373. A sweeping menu that offers a full choice of Italian favorites and more. You’ll find what you want, from chicken to beef to pasta. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-9pm daily $$ FORT WORTH

AVENTINO’S » 3206 Winthrop Ave., 817. 731.0711. Good old-fashioned Italian. Think chicken picatta and one of the best no-frills marinaras around. Luscious desserts, too. 11am-2pm Mon.Fri.; 5pm-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 5:30pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$ - $$ $

BELLA ITALIA WEST » 5139 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.1700. The most wild game this side of Fossil Rim. This dimly lit set of nooks and rooms is a great romantic setting, but it’s also suitable for highpowered business or low-key gatherings of friends. 11:30am-1pm Mon.-Fri.; 6pm-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 6pm10pm Fri.-Sat. $$

CAFÉ BELLA » 3548 South Hills Dr., 817.922.9500. The café is a busy place and known for its pizza, lasagna, salad and cheese bread. 11am-10pm Mon.Fri.; 4pm-10pm Sat. $ - $$

CIAO » 500 Commerce St., 817.335.0500. Directly across from Bass Hall downtown, the restaurant serves up classic Italian in the form of delicious Caesar salads and pizzas. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

FERRÉ RISTORANTE BAR >> 215 E. Fourth St. 817.332.0033. This new Tuscan-Italian eatery offers a range of dishes. For more traditional, try the Spaghettini Pomodoro, or for a heartier appetitie try the Agnello al Forno, a seared lamb loin dish. 4pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 4pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

FORTUNA » 5837 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.737.4469. This little Italian restaurant is a favorite among Fort Worthians. 11a.m.-10p.m. Sun.-Thur.; 11a.m.-11p.m. Fri.-Sat. $

ITALIAN INN RIDGLEA » 6323 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.737.0123. Chic and classic menu offers veal, chicken, seafood and pasta. Get ready for attentive service in a vintage underground nightclub setting, complete with singing waiters. 5pm10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat.$ - $$

LA PIAZZA » 1600 S. University Dr., #601, 817.334.0000. Upscale Italian cuisine in University Park Village Shopping Center. Dress nicely to visit this lovely (and pricey) Italian spot ... the experience is worth it. 11:30am-1pm Sun.-Fri.; 5:30pm10pm Sun.-Thur.; 4pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$$

MAMA’S PIZZA » 1813 W. Berry St., 817.923.3541. Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.731. MAMA This Fort Worth staple has been serving up great pizza in Fort Worth since 1968. Lunch buffet: 11am-2pm daily.

Delivery through Entrees-To-Go: 11am-10pm Mon.Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; Noon-10pm Sun. $

MANCUSO’S » 9500 White Settlement Rd., 817.246.7041. A westside favorite that draws crowds from all over. Consistently flavorful authentic Italian fare. Large portions served with outstanding pastas, a wonderful Italian fish fry and homemade sausages. 11am-1pm Mon.-Fri.; 4pm-9pm Mon.Thur.; 4pm-10pm Fri.-Sat.: Closed Sun. $

MARGIE’S ORIGNIAL ITALIAN KITCHEN » 9805 Camp Bowie West, 817.244.4301. 1950sstyle eatery that serves pizza from a brick oven and equally fine lasagna, chicken marsala and shrimp scampi. 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

MELLOW MUSHROOM » 3455 Bluebonnet Circle, 817.207.9677. A funky and fun 1960s ambiance good for large gatherings. Come ready to eat unique pizza. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

MILANO’S » 3416 W. 7th St., 817.332.5226. Pizza is a big menu item, but you’ll find more than enough choices to satisfy your hunger. 10am-10pm Mon.-Sat. $

NONNA TATA » 1400 W. Magnolia Ave., 817.332.0250. With a weekly changing menu, this small Italian restaurant is a hidden gem that begs

to be found. 11am-3pm Tue.-Fri.; 5:30pm-8:30pm Tue.-Thur.; 5:30pm-9:30pm Fri. $-$$

ON BROADWAY RESTAURANT » 6306 Hulen Bend, 817.346.8841. Italian fare that features homemade pasta and seafood. Don’t go away without trying a flaming dessert. New executive chef. 5:30pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5:30pm-10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$

PIOLA » 3700 Mattison Ave., 817.9890007. Nestled in Fort Worth’s Cultural District, this cozy bistro serves up true comfort food in the form of authentic Italian cuisine. Try Grandma’s Lasagna or the smoked-chicken fettuccini. For a treat, make reservations to dine on the patio. 11am-2pm MonFri; 5pm-10pm Mon-Sat. $$

PIZZERIA UNO CHICAGO GRILL » 300 Houston St., 817.885.8667. With a great location downtown and pizza you can’t find anywhere else in Texas, Uno’s Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is a must. Don’t skip the heavenly chocolate peanut butter cup dessert! Large menu offers many choices for everyone. 10am-11pm Sun.-Thur.; 10amMidnight Fri.-Sat. $

RUFFINO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT » 2455 Forest Park Blvd., 817.923.0522. A light homemade ravioli is our favorite to slip on a fork and across the table into the mouth of a close dining partner at this upscale romantic spot also known for its chicken, beef and pasta. Voted best in town by Fort Worth, Texas magazine readers. 11am2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$

TAVERNA RISOTTERIA » 450 Throckmorton St., 817.885.7502. Hand-tossed pizzas, risottos, pastas and entrées that include beef tenderloin, sea bass and yellowfin tuna. The bar offers beer and wine, and the bottomless mimosas are divine. Sunday brunch. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $ - $$

GRAPEVINE/SOUTHLAKE/ COLLEYVILLE

BRIO TUSCAN GRILL » 1431 Plaza Place, Southlake, 817.310.3136. Whether you want to eat in or just need that warm Italian bread to go, this restaurant has you covered. High-quality steak and house-made pastas are cooked in an authentic Italian wood oven to give you the taste of Italy. 11am10pm Sun.-Thur., 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $ - $$

BUCA DI BEPPO » 2701 E. State Hwy. 114, Southlake, 817.749.MAMA. A neighborhood restaurant where guests feast on family platters of Southern Italian specialties in a boisterous, celebratory environment that recalls the supper clubs of the 1940s and ’50s. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun. $$

FERRARI’S ITALIAN VILLA >> 1200 William D. Tate Ave., 817.251.2525. This upscale restaurant boasts authentic Italian cuisine. Owned by the Secchi family, Ferrari’s serves century-old family recipes with a modern twist. 11am-2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$-$$$

RAVIOLI » 120 E. Worth, Grapevine, 817.488.1181. Excellent ingredients and huge portions will satisfy the biggest appetites in your family. 11am-2pm Tue.Sat.; 5pm-9pm Tue.-Thur.; 5pm-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

Latin american

COLLEYVILLE/FORT WORTH

GLORIA’S » Colleyville: 5611 Colleyville Blvd., 817.656.1784. Fort Worth: 2600 W. 7th St., 817.332.8800. Gloria’s offers an alternative to TexMex cuisine with a dash of Salvadoran flavor. Favorites include the seafood soup, ceviche and grilled pork. Colleyville: 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-2am Fri.-Sat. Fort Worth: 11am-9pm Sun.-Mon.; 11am10pmTue.-Thur.; 11am-2am Fri.-Sat. $-$$

mediterranean

FORT WORTH

SAPRISTI! » 2418 Forest Park Blvd., 817.924.7231. Relaxed, elegant dining that features a European flair. Items include mussels and tapas, and you’ll also find risotto, duck and braised lamb shank. 5:30pm-9:30pm Tue.-Thur.; 5:30pm-10pm Fri.-Sat.; Sunday brunch from 10:30am-2pm. $$

SCAMPI’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE » 1057 W. Magnolia Ave., 817.927.1887. Italian and

Greek cuisine in a setting recently redecorated for romance. Counter service at lunch and full table service in the evening. BYOB. 11am-2pm Mon.Fri.; 5:30pm-9pm Wed.-Thur.; 5:30pm-9:30pm Fri.-Sat. $

The Vault >> 525 Taylor St., 817.348.9828. Sample sumptuous Mediterranean cuisine and wonderful wines in a warm, European-inspired setting, and linger at the hip V Lounge Wine & Martini Bar located downstairs. Signature dishes include Vault Paella and many temping tapas selections. Lunch: 11am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; Dinner: 5:30-10pm Mon.Wed.; 5:30-10:30pm Thur.-Sat. $$-$$$

mexican

COLLEYVILLE /GRAPEVINE

ESPARZA’S » 124 E. Worth St., 817.481.4668. Located in a 19th-century home in historic downtown Grapevine, this quaint little restaurant serves Tex-Mex favorites. You never know who will show up, by the looks of all the famous faces gracing the walls. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun. $

LA HACIENDA RANCH » 5250 Hwy. 121, Colleyville, 817.318.7500. Mexican food is the fare, and the grilled steaks are excellent. Don’t forget the fajitas. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.Sat. $$

RIO MAMBO » 5150 Highway 121, 817.354.3124. Salad takes a new twist alongside standard TexMex favorites, with the Los Cabos, a Mexican cobb salad of sorts with chicken, avocado and bleu cheese. 11am-9:30pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$

FORT WORTH

ANTHONY’S » 2400 Meacham Blvd., 817.378.9005. The Santa Fe-style Mexican cuisine features red and green chile enchiladas, fajitas, seafood and more, as well as a great selection of beer, wine and margaritas. 7am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-9pm Wed.-Sat. $

BAKER ST. PUB & GRILL » 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.377.9772. British-themed pub with a menu that offers shepherd’s pie and Scotch egg with good chutney. You’ll also find a mix of Tex-Mex with a Brit nuance thrown in for good measure. 11am-2am daily. $ - $$

BENITO’S RESTAURANT » 1450 W. Magnolia Ave., 817.332.8633. Other location: 2516 N.E. 28th St., 817.740.1679. Authentic Mexican fare with some Tex-Mex mixed in. Great weekend breakfast, as well. 10am-9pm Mon.-Thur., 10am-2am Fri.-Sat., 11am-9pm Sun. $

CABO GRANDE » 115 W. 2nd St., 817.348.8226. Good service plus Mexican dishes in a festive atmosphere. Enjoy ribs, snapper and fajitas outside on the patio. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-midnight Fri.-Sat. $$

CANTINA LAREDO » 530 Throckmorton St. 817.810.0773. Start with the top shelf guacamole and move on to the Enchiladas de Mole. Don’t forget to save room for the scrumptious Mexican apple pie. 11am-10p.m Mon-Thur.; 11am-11 pm Fri.Sat.; 10am-9pm Sun. $-$$

CHIMY’S CERVECERIA >> 1053 Foch St. 817.348.8888. Famous for it’s nachos and addictive margaritas, this place is a must try for all Tex-Mex lovers. 11am- midnight. Mon.-Sat. $

CHIPOTLE » 3050 S. Hulen St., 817.735.8355

Other locations: 3000 W. 7th St., 817.348.8530. 4484 Bryant Irvin Rd., 817.735.4506. 9127. 1312 W. Pipeline Rd., 817.595.3875. 3010 E. Southlake Blvd., 817.748.4745 Good food at a low price. Standard Mexican tacos and burritos. Everything is made to order while you watch. 11am-10pm daily. $

DOS GRINGOS » 1015 University Dr., 817.338.9393. The name says it all. The Tex-Mex menu is top fare in a setting that appeals to the Cultural District crowd. Their margaritas are the largest in town! 11am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

EL FENIX » 6391 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.732.5584. More than 80 years ago, the Martinez Family pioneered what is now known internationally as the Tex-Mex food phenomenon, but they also offer many traditional Mexican food dishes that are popular south of the border. El Fenix is the oldest chain of family-owned Tex-Mex restaurants in the United States. 11am-10pm daily. $

EL RANCHO GRANDE » 1400 N. Main St., 817.624.9206. This family-owned and -operated

Mexican restaurant has been a Cowtown favorite for more than 60 years. Fresh tortillas and chips and salsa are made from scratch daily, and the eatery is housed in a beautiful vintage 1918 restored building on the north side of Fort Worth. 11a.m.-9pm Mon.Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $-$$

ESPaRaNZa’S MEXICaN BaKERY & CaFE

» 2122 N. Main St., 817.626.5770. Other location: 1109 Hemphill St., 817.332.3848. The south-of-the-border fare draws neighborhood families and downtowners alike because of the friendly surroundings. It’s owned by the people who run Joe T. Garcia’s, so you know you’re in for a good time. Bakery: 6am-7pm daily; Cafe: 6:30am-6pm Mon.-Fri.; 6:30am-7pmSat.Sun.; 6:30am-5:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 6am-5:30pm Sat.Sun. Hemphill. $

FERNaNDEZ CaFE » 4220 W. Vickery Blvd., 817.377.2652. This family-friendly Mexican eatery offers a low-fat selection of food on its menu. 6:30am-2pm daily $

FIESTa » 3233 Hemphill St., 817.923.6941. Twentyfive years in one location with the original owners. Some employees have even been here for 23 years! The brightly colored lights make for a nice ambiance. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

FUZZY’S TaCO ShOP » 2917 W. Berry St., 817.924.7943. 2719 Race St., 817.831.TACO The favorites for late nights are tacos, big burritos, great enchiladas and beer. A TCU student hot spot. 10:30am-2am Thu.; 10:30am-3am Fri.-Sat.; 10:30ammidnight Mon.-Wed.; 8am-10pm Sun.; 9:15am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 9:15am-11pm Fri.-Sat. Race St.$

JOE T. GaRCIa’S » 2201 N. Commerce, 817.626.4356. Family owned and operated for three generations, Joe T.’s is a must for outside dining. Pick one of two menu choices (enchiladas or fajitas) and feast in one of the courtyards or in the fiesta gardens. Beware: The weekend rush will keep you in line for a table, but it’s well worth the wait. Cash only. 11am-2:30pm, 5-10pm Mon.-Thur., 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. 11am-10pm Sun. $$

La FaMILIa » 841 Foch St., 817.870.2002. Familyowned and -operated restaurant. Lunch specials are served six days a week. Good service and great TexMex are served up here in large portions. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $

La PLaYa MaYa » 6209 Sunset Dr., 817.738.3329. Other locations: 1540 N. Main St., 817.624.8411. 3200 Hemphill St., 817.924.0698. Traditional Tex-Mex is well done, but the seafood is better. A must-order here is the succulent ceviche (raw fish) cooked in lime juice, then mixed with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro and peppers. 11am-10pm Mon.Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.; 10am-11pm Sat.; 10am-10pm Sun. $

LOS MOLCaJETES » 4320 Western Center Blvd., 817.306.9000. Here, you have a tremendous amount to choose from, including various enchiladas, tostadas, fajitas, chimichangas, combination platters and a sampler platter for the lunch crowd. 11am-9:30pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun. $

LOS vaqUEROS » 2629 N. Main St., 817.624.1511. Located across from Billy Bob’s Texas, this northside favorite is a great place for inexpensive, but absolutely delicious, Tex-Mex. You cannot find better beef fajitas. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.Sat.; 10:30am-3pm Sun

MaMBO’S » 1010 Houston St. in the Park Central Hotel, 817.336.3124. A downtown favorite. Mambo’s famous tacos and incredible margaritas will keep you going back for more. Late-night dining at its best. 11am- 2pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-12am Tue.-Thur.; 5pm-2am Fri.-Sat. $

MI COCINa » 509 Main St., 817.877.3600. Other location: 4601 W. Freeway (I-30 and Hulen), 817.569.1444. A favorite all over the Metroplex. Nachos locos, chicken con hongos, mongo goodo and the famous Mambo Taxi that may make you looso drunko. Easygoing cantina atmosphere. 11am10pm Sun.-Thur. 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

MI COCINITa » 3509 Bryan Ave., 817.923.0033. This backyard café offers a cozy, casual dining experience. One of Fort Worth’s best-kept secrets. 10:30am-2:30pm Wed.-Fri. $$

ThE ORIGINaL » 4713 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.6226. Fort Worth’s oldest Mexican restaurant offers all of the traditional favorites such as warm flautas and homemade tamales in a warm, family-friendly setting. 11am-9pm Tue.-Thur.; 11am10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun. $

PaPPaSITO’S CaNTINa » 2704 West Freeway, 817.877.5546. Other location: 321 W. Road to Six Flags, Arlington, 817.795.3535. Next door to Pappadeaux, this restaurant draws large crowds with generous helpings of Tex-Mex food. The quality is the best, the portions are huge, and the service

is impeccable. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

PULIDOS » 5051 Hwy 377 S. 817.732.7871. Other locations: 817.732.7571. 2900 Pulido St., 817-731-4241. 4924 Old Benbrook Rd. Classic Mexican restaurant offering everything from enchiladas to crispy tacos. 11am-9:30 pm Mon-Thur.; 11am-10 pm Fri.-Sat. $

RIO MaMBO » 6125 I-20 at Bryant Irvin, 817.423.3124. Salad takes a new twist alongside standard Tex-Mex favorites, with the Los Cabos, a Mexican cobb salad of sorts with chicken, avocado and bleu cheese. 11am-9:30pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am10:3pm Fri.-Sat. $$

SaMMY’S RESTaURaNT » 300 West Central, 817.624.0764. Mixture of American and Mexican items includes steaks, soups, seafood, enchiladas and tacos. 5pm-11pm Wed.-Thur.; 5pm-4am Fri.Sat. $-$$

TRES JOSES COCINa MEXICaNa » 4004 White Settlement Rd., 817.763.0456. Decidedly creative menu with a range of choices, from chargrilled chicken breast to grilled shrimp, fancy tamales stuffed with sirloin and topped with tomatillo salsa. 11am-9pm Tue.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-9pm Sun.; Closed Mon. $$

UNCLE JULIO’S » 5301 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.377.2777. A West Fort Worth cult eatery, and it’s easy to see why. This national chain has blended the best parts of Southwestern cuisine with Mex and Tex-Mex, giving guests a flavorful dining experience. 11am-10:30pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$

WILLOW PaRK

LOS vaqUEROS » 4971 E. I-20N 817.441.1551. Sister restaurant to Los Vaqueros in the stockyards, this has the same menu with a more laid back, family-friendly atmosphere. 11am-9pm Sun. & tue.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $-$$

seafood

aRLINGTON

FISh CITY GRILL » 3900 Arlington Heights Blvd. 817.465.0001. This casual restaurant offers tasty treats from the sea at tasty prices. Try the blue crab stuffed mushrooms or the Fish city sandwich. 11am - 10 pm Mon.- Thur.; 11am – 11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am- 9pm Sun. $-$$

FORT WORTh

DaDDY JaCK’S » 353 Throckmorton, 817.332.2477. The attentive servers and the expertly cooked dishes make for a wonderful dining experience. Crab cakes with big chunky pieces that are hard to come by. Lobster tail and the catch of the day are the main attractions of the seafood house in the heart of the Wild West. 11am-2pm Mon.-Sat.; 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

J&J OYSTER BaR » 612 N. University Dr., 817.335.2756. The Oyster bar is the best place where locals go for oysters, scallops and the best seafood gumbo in town. 11a.m.-10p.m. Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $

LONE STaR OYSTER BaR » 4750 Bryant Irvin Rd., 817.370.0030. Seafood lovers shouldn’t leave this place without trying the tasty oysters. A fun place to unwind after a long day at the office or outside in the Texas sun. The daily specials are excellent, as well. 11am-2am Tue.-Sat.; 11am-midnight Sun.-Mon. $

PaPPaDEaUX » 2708 West Freeway, 817.877.8843. Other location: 1304 E. Copeland Rd., Arlington, 817.543.0544. Basic New Orleans-themed chain, but hardly pedestrian on the palate. Keep in mind, the Arlington location is one of the busiest spots in the county, especially when the neighboring Texas Rangers are in town. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

RaZZOO’S » 318 Main St. in Sundance Square, 817.429.7009. Other location: 4700 Bryant Irvin Rd. in Cityview, 817.292.8584. Why go to Mardi Gras when you’ve got Razzoo’s at home? Less fancy than the competition, they offer Louisiana favorites, as well as specialty drinks, like hurricanes, gator punch and worm burners. 11am-11pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-2am Fri.-Sat. $$

ROCKFISh » 3050 S. Hulen St., 817.738.3474. A seafood lover’s paradise in a good people-watching place. Tender pastas complement all the seafood choices, and the raspberry margarita is too tasty for words. 11am-9pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat. $$ ZEKE’S FISh & ChIPS » 5920 Curzon Ave., 817.731.3321. This Fort Worth staple serves up some-

thing different than the Southern battered fish fry. Modeled after English fish and chips. 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.; 10am-11pm Sat.; Noon9pm Sun. $

SOUThLaKE

FISh CITY GRILL » 2750 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 130, 817.748.0456. This casual restaurant offers tasty treats from the sea at tasty prices. Try the blue crab stuffed mushrooms or the Fish city sandwich. 11am - 10 pm Mon.- Thur.; 11am – 11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am9pm Sun. $ - $$

TRULUCK’S SEaFOOD, STEaK & CRaB hOUSE » 1420 Plaze Pl.; 817.912.0500. It’s all about the fresh seafood and tender crab at Truluck’s which features a weekly changing menu. 5pm-10pm daily $$$

southwest

FORT WORTh

BLUE MESa BaR & GRILL » 1600 S. University Dr., 817.332.6372. Other location: 158 E. Southlake Blvd., Southlake, 817.416.0055. Escape Tex-Mex fever and opt for superb Southwestern cuisine in this favorite University Park Village haunt. Low-fat menu choices make it easy for the calorie counters. Their popular happy hour provides delicious quesadillas with drinks. One of the best brunches you’ll ever eat. 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 10am-10pm Sun.; 11am-9pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 10am-9pm Sun. Southlake. $$

BONNELL’S FINE TEXaS CUISINE » 4259 Bryant Irvin Rd., 817.738.5489. Wonderful Texas game dishes, fresh grilled seafood, steaks and chops. Something for every taste, like the grilled trout with mango salsa. Draws an upscale crowd both dressy and casual. Extensive wine list. 11am-2:30pm Tue.Fri.; 5:30pm-10pm Tue.-Sat. $$ $

LaNNY’S aLTa COCINa MEXICaNa » 3405 W. 7th St., 817.850.9996. Don’t go in expecting traditional enchiladas and tacos. Instead, enjoy multiple courses of nouvelle Mexican cuisine from a fourth-generation member of the Joe T. Garcia family. 11:30am-2pm Tue.-Fri.; 5:30pm-10pm Tue.-Thur.; 5:30pm-10:30pm Fri.-Sat. $$$

ThE LONESOME DOvE WESTERN BISTRO » 2406 N. Main St., 817.740.8810. A whitetablecloth dining establishment in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards. Chef/owner Tim Love has brought together a collection of dishes that reflects the spirit of food from the traditional and new Southwest. We suggest the duck quesadillas and the coffee-rubbed kangaroo tail. 11:30am-2:30pm Tue.Sat.; 5pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$ $

MIChaELS RESTaUR aNT & aNChO

ChILE BaR » 3413 West 7th St., 817.877.3413. Michaels Restaurant & Ancho Chile Bar serves up contemporary Southwestern cuisine, a comfortable atmosphere and an extensive list of fine wines. The Chile Bar offers its own unique menu. 11am-2:30pm Mon.-Fri.; 5:30pm-10pm Mon.-Wed.; 5:30pm-11pm Thur.-Sat. Chile Bar hours: 11am-11pm Mon.-Wed.; 11am-1am Thur.-Fri.; 5pm-1am Sat. $

REaTa » 310 Houston St., 817.336.1009. A garden bar three stories above downtown and two stories of dining make this one of the most popular tickets in Fort Worth. Well, that, and an innovative menu that includes such palate-pleasing favorites as smoked quail on cheese grits, chicken-fried steak and a chili relleno stuffed to the gills with cheese. The crowd is lively and the waitstaff is unmatched. 11am-2:30pm, 5pm-10:30pm daily. Bluegrass Brunch 11am-2pm Sun. $$

steaks

aRLINGTON

MaC’S STEaKS & SEaFOOD » 6077 I-20 W. 817.572.0541. Trendy but casual pub featuring steaks and seafood. 10am-10pm Sun.; 11am-10pm Mon.Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.$-$$

TRaIL DUST STEaK hOUSE » 2300 E. Lamar Ave., 817.640.6411. The large and lively atmosphere make this a good place for a night out with the family. They serve a wide variety of steaks and have a tasty appetizer selection, to boot. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pFri.-Sat.$$$

FORT WORTh

CaTTLEMEN’S STEaK hOUSE » 2458 N. Main St., 817.624.3945. In the Stockyards since 1947,

Cattlemen’s is a beef institution where you choose your steak from the glass butcher case. If you’re not a red-meat eater, there is a good selection of superb seafood and chicken. 11am-10:30pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 1pm-9pm Sun. $$$

DEL FRISCO’S DOUBLE EaGLE STEaKhOUSE » 812 Main St., 817.877.3999. A Fort Worth/Dallas legend. The meat is great, and so is the service. Don’t hesitate to try the fish or the mock turtle soup made with beef and sherry. A perfect special-occasion dining location. 5pm-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 5pm-9pm Sun. $$$ FUEGO » 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.377.4400. Try chef/owner Efrain Benitez’s Queso Fuego. This dish, ignited tableside, features cheese, jalapenos and ground beef. 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-10pm Mon.-Sat.$$$

h3 RaNCh » 109 E. Exchange Ave., 817.624.1246. The bunkhouse feel lends a special Stockyards flavor to roast pork Southern-style, and be sure to try a gooey caramely dessert served in a skillet or a flaming steak with 150-proof fuel. The huge open hickory grill gets your attention right away. 11am10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.; 9am-11pm Sat.; 9am-10pm Sun. $$$

hOFFBRaU » 1712 S. University Dr., 817.870.1952. A relaxed setting that serves up good steaks, chargrilled pork chops, bacon-wrapped shrimp, fried pickles and banana pudding. 11am-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$

KJ’S SOUThWEST GRILL » 9143 Grapevine Hwy., 817.503.8883. New to the Tarrant County landscape, this restaurant offers steaks, burgers and other American favorites. 11am-10pm daily. $

ThE KEG STEaKhOUSE & BaR » 5760 S.W. Loop 820, 817.731.3534. The fireplace makes it cozy, but the food makes it better, especially the oddball, round “baseball steak.” Try the bacon-wrapped scallops with a zesty cocktail sauce or the grilled top sirloin. 4pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 4pm-11pm Fri.Sat. $$$

MERCURY ChOP hOUSE » 301 Main St., 817.336.4129. The menu is the only way to describe this place of beef tenderloin Oscar, Dijon-crusted pork chops, truffled polenta and halibut over a roux of Kalamata olives and Roma tomatoes. 11am-3pm Mon.-Fri.; 5pm-10pm Sun.-Thur.; 5pm-11pm Fri.-Sat.; 11am-3pm Sun. $$$

M&M STEaKhOUSE » 1106 N.W. 28th St., 817.624.0612. This restaurant may be small, but the steaks sure aren’t. Try one of these huge slabs of meat smothered in a garlic sauce. The food is excellent. Cash only. 5pm-11pm Tue.-Sat. $$

RISCKY’S STEaKhOUSE » 120 E. Exchange Ave., 817.624.4800. A true Old West décor serving Texas-size steaks of certified Angus beef. Originally frequented by visiting ranchers, cowboys and cattlemen involved with the stockyards and livestock business, making them famous for their calf fries and excellent steaks. 11am-9pm Sun.-Mon.; 11am10pm Tue.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$-$$$

SILvER FOX STEaKhOUSE » 1651 S. University Dr., 817.332.9060. Other location: 1235 William D. Tate, Grapevine, 817.329.6995. Prime veal, steak salads and off-the-cob cream corn are a few of the favorites on this menu of upscale Western chophouse fare. Popular for gatherings, as well as a heckuva steak. 4pm-10pm Mon.-Sat.$$ $

GRaPEvINE /SOUThLaKE/COLLEYvILLE

J.R.’S STEaKhOUSE » 5400 Hwy. 121, 817.355.1414. The menu has plenty of steaks and seafood to choose from, but reasonably priced first courses and salads could easily pass for small entrées. J.R.’s draws a more casual crowd, but there is nothing casual about the food. Wine lovers will also be pleased to find a number of bottles priced in the $30 to $80 range. You will also find live music nightly in the adjoining bar. 4pm-lounge; 5pm-10pm Mon.-Sat.; Closed Sun. $$$

KIRBY’S STEaKhOUSE » 3305 E. Hwy. 114, Southlake, 817.410.2221. A fine dining experience featuring prime-aged, bone-in ribeye and pepper steak. Excellent seafood, as well. 4:30pm-10pm Sun.Thu.; 4:30pm-11pm Fri.-Sat. $$$

MaC’S STEaKS & SEaFOOD » 5120 Hwy. 121, Colleyville, 817.318.6227. Trendy but casual pub featuring steaks and seafood. 9:30am-10pm Sun.; 11am-10pm Mon.-Thur.; 11am-11pm Fri.-Sat. $ - $$

›› havE WE MISSED YOUR FavORITE hOT SPOT? Send the restaurant name and a brief description of why it should be included to: (cstrube@fwtexas.com), or call (817.560.6100). Be sure to include a phone number, hours of operation and a description of the ambience.

For one Fort Worth native, a dream became a reality when he was recently named the winner of the FOX hit TV series “So You Think You Can Dance.” The crowd went wild when North Crowley High School alum Joshua Allen’s name was announced at the Season Four finale in August. Three months later, with the SYTYCD 40-city tour well underway throughout the U.S. and Canada, America’s favorite dancer is definitely dancing to a different beat.

All things aside (including his coveted winning title and $250,000 in prize money), this grounded and down-to-earth dance sensation describes his experience as proof that anyone can achieve their dreams. And he should know—Allen has seen his fair share of obstacles in his 20 years of life, but the death of his cousin just days before the competition tops them all. Even so, Allen said his family pushed him to go to L.A. to compete. “It was tough, and a lot of people didn’t know I was going through that,” Allen said of his family’s loss. “It was hard. Period. The competition was difficult, and on top of that there was just so much on my mind [during that time].”

Allen’s mother, Angela Allen Tolbert, said it’s no surprise that Joshua worked through the adversity to come out on top.

Spotlight[ [

Joshua Allen

[ Winner TV reality show “So You Think You Can Dance” ]

“Joshua is a fighter. He’s a go-getter, and this is something he’s always wanted to do,” she said. “I always knew that if it wasn’t this, it would be something else because he challenges himself in every area possible.”

Now that he’s officially made it, Allen said he is focused on his goals and looking forward to his future, which may eventually include a dance school in his hometown of Fort Worth. “Right now, I plan to keep working, dancing and performing,” said Allen, who added that since the show, he’s branched out from his familiar hip-hop style of dance to ballroom dancing, among others. “I’d like to pursue some acting and ultimately be a recording artist.”

Though he misses his mother’s and grandmother’s home cooking and seeing the familiar faces of friends he grew up with in Cowtown, Allen said he is enjoying his time in Los Angeles and on the road. When asked if he had anything to say to his fans back home, Allen’s gratitude flowed freely: “I’m really blessed that I made it as far as I did and that I won. It means a lot to me, and I want to say thank you to everyone who voted for me and thank you for the support I got from back home.”

Luxury Room

For Wendy Reznik, space is a necessity. For eight years, she has owned an interior decorating company, Room For Design, which means she needs plenty of room to transport all of her latest creations. That’s why she purchased a 2007 Lexus RX 350, which is not only convenient for her lifestyle but also provides “luxury comfort inside,” with leather seats, wood details, and a user-friendly dashboard.

Wendy said every experience at Park Place Lexus in Grapevine is “great, and the service department is outstanding.” Not only does she shop there, but she also sends her friends there—many of who now own the same car as her—and recommends Park Place to anyone wanting a larger vehicle or SUV with good gas mileage.

The Rezniks “are a Lexus family,” Wendy said, which is why she and her husband, Bob, have been shopping at Park Place Lexus in Grapevine since it arrived. Bob owns a 2006 Lexus LS 430, which is perfect for driving to the tennis court or the golf course.