Preston Hollow, TX August 2026

WHERE LUXURY MEETS PERFORMANCE

Model Society is not a gym with some recovery equipment. It is not a wellness center with a weight room. It is Dallas's first fully integrated private members club, built for individuals who have already achieved a great deal and refuse to settle for anything less than the best in every area of their life.

Model Society exists for those who understand that wellness is not a hobby. It is the foundation of how you perform, lead, connect, and live. Every detail of the club was designed around one belief: the environments you spend time in shape the person you become. That is why our model and structure brings together five interconnected pillars under one roof:

PERFORMANCE: A well-thought out training environment featuring elite, hand-selected equipment, intentional design, and an atmosphere built for growth and discipline.

RECOVERY: Advanced recovery experiences including cold plunge therapy, infrared sauna, red light therapy, compression therapy, hyperbaric chambers, and more all designed to help members recover as intentionally as they perform.

CLINICAL HEALTH: Direct access to trusted wellness professionals for bloodwork, hormone optimization, injury care, physical therapy, chiropractic services, peptide therapy, and long-term health optimization.

MED SPA & AESTHETICS: Modern aesthetic and restorative treatments that support confidence, longevity, and the way members present themselves to the world.

COMMUNITY: A curated network of ambitious, growth-oriented individuals who train together, recover together, and build meaningful relationships beyond the walls of the club.

Lifestyle Letter

August in Preston Hollow has a particular rhythm. School is almost back, the mornings feel a little more purposeful, and the neighborhood comes alive with children on bikes, dogs on leashes, and families making the most of the final weeks of summer.

This is our first August issue as publishers of Preston Hollow City Lifestyle, and the Kids & Pets theme feels especially fitting.

Our household runs on that energy year-round. Augie, our toy poodle, and Pinky, our Pomeranian, have never once asked us to earn their enthusiasm. Every morning, before the coffee is ready and long before the workday begins, they have already decided it is going to be a good one. Rocio and I have started taking their lead.

Perhaps that is what children and pets have in common: they remind us what it means to be fully present. No agenda, no distraction, just the moment in front of them. They also have a way of bringing people together, whether at school, in the park, or during a walk through the neighborhood.

Preston Hollow is filled with families putting down roots, building traditions, and creating the everyday moments that make a community feel like home.

This issue celebrates those families, the animals they love, and the joy they bring to our neighborhood.

We hope you enjoy it.

NATHAN AND ROCIO

@PRESTONHOLLOWCITYLIFESTYLE

August 2026

PUBLISHER

Nathan Smith | nathan.smith@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Rocio Villarreal | rocio.villarreal@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kelsey Kosh, Lauren Stone, David Muscari

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Join us as Zimmermann in NorthPark Center hosts the KidneyTexas, Inc. Luncheon and Fashion Show. 2: Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL) President Claire Catrino presented a check for $1,500,000 to Michelle Miller Burns 3: Brother Bill’s Helping Hand Food Pantry. Helping neighbors shop and carry groceries out to vehicles as needed. 4: The STEAM Festival at Fair Park, a free community celebration where creativity meets innovation and wellness. 5: Megan Moroney will be at American Airlines Center on August 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM 6: Dallas International Film Festival brings awesome movies and cool vibes to theaters around Dallas. 7: Hands-on: Pizza Napoletana with Rosso Pomodoro at Eataly Dallas, La Scuola this August 12th.

STAY CONNECTED TO

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Pure Barre

We are issuing a correction on our June 2026 article about Pure Barre Preston Hollow. The article did not accurately represent the business. Scan the code to visit their page. A corrected feature will appear in a future issue.

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The Dirk Nowitzki Foundation 8th Annual Tennis Classic

The Dirk Nowitzki Foundation 8th Annual Tennis Classic is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Banner House (formerly T Bar M Racquet Club) in Dallas. The star-studded, lighthearted exhibition raises funds for North Texas non-profits focusing on children's health, education, and well-being. The Dirk Nowitzki Foundation 8th Annual Tennis Classic returns to double up the courts at @bannerhousedallas.

Barney & Boots

Founded by SMU roommates, Juan Ramos and John Scoggins, Barney & Boots, is a ranch-rooted dog food company built on real ingredients, honest standards, and the belief that dogs deserve better than industrial diets. Barney and Boot's makes nutrient-dense, shelf-stable meals from whole foods, premium proteins, beef tallow, and clean, functional ingredients — no synthetics, no seed oils, no fillers. As sixth-generation cattle ranchers, they know what it takes to raise healthy animals. At Barney and Boots, they don’t cut corners on your dog’s health, happiness, or longevity.

Dallas CASA Friends and Supporters

Dallas CASA friends and supporters, gathered beneath NorthPark Center’s iconic Ad Astra sculpture to thank the 2026 playhouse creators and celebrate the final weekend of the 31st annual Parade of Playhouses at The Closing Party. As guests enjoyed refreshments from Breadwinners, they reflected on another successful year of imaginative playhouse designs that delighted thousands of visitors while raising awareness for children living in foster care.

Hola HP! Annual Staff Meeting

The Hola HP familia recently came together for our annual staff meeting and happy hour to celebrate another successful year. The event provided an opportunity to reflect on key achievements, recognize the dedication and hard work of our tutors, and share exciting plans for the future. Following the meeting, staff enjoyed time connecting and celebrating together at a happy hour gathering. It was a wonderful way to acknowledge our collective accomplishments and strengthen team relationships as we look ahead to the 26-27 school year.

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Manorly Water Restoration & Mold Remediation

Manorly is expanding its home management expertise with the launch of Manorly Water Restoration & Mold Remediation, offering homeowners a trusted solution when unexpected damage strikes. From rapid water extraction to professional mold remediation, Manorly restores homes safely and efficiently. Known for meticulous care and high standards, Manorly now helps clients not only maintain their homes, but recover them, bringing peace of mind when it matters most. manorly.com

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Million Air Dallas

Skip the crowds and elevate your summer travel with the MAnext Jet Pass. Enjoy the convenience of private aviation with flexible scheduling, discounted charter rates, and personalized concierge service for every trip. Members gain access to a global charter network with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. Powered by Million Air Dallas’ 40+ years of operational excellence, the MAnext Jet Pass offers a smarter, more luxurious way to travel this summer. Visit  MAnext.com/ jet-pass for more information.

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American National Bank & Trust, Helping You Grow With Confidence

At American National Bank & Trust, we keep capital moving so local businesses can thrive. With flexible lending solutions and decisions made right here, we respond thoughtfully to your needs. Whether you’re expanding operations, upgrading equipment, purchasing property, or managing day-to-day cash flow, we provide real support when it matters most. Our team is dedicated to helping you grow with confidence - offering guidance, reliability, and a true partnership every step of the way forward together.

A NEW STANDARD of Luxury

PRIVATE AVIATION LEADER MILLION AIR DALLAS HAS FLOWN DALLAS’ FINEST FOR 40+ YEARS.

ARTICLE BY KELSEY KOSH

Forty years ago, founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics Mary Kay Ash needed a place for business partners to land and be treated with the standard of luxury for which the beauty icon and her brand were known. “The Mary Kay HQ , and then the Million Air Dallas terminal, were placed in Addison with the foresight to know that Addison would soon be a bustling business center for the North Dallas area,” says Sr. Director of Business Strategy at Cara Tolentino. Now, Million Air Dallas, the private jet services company born from Ash’s need has grown into one of the largest fixed base operators in the world. “We were the first to pioneer the idea of a luxury fixed base operator,” says Director of Charter Operations Kim Hexter. The company is now owned by Richard & Nancy Rogers, with 15 aircraft under management, and flies approximately 3,700 hours per year. Million Air offers its clients the ability to streamline the customs process when arriving on an international flight, as well as book cars, chauffeurs, and hotels via a single platform. It also publishes prices up front and prior to landing. Ramp fees are waived with a minimum fuel purchase, helping to ensure the pilots experience the same luxury standard as their passengers. Other amenities include: complimentary wifi on the ramp, more than 13,000 square feet of heated hangar space, onsite showers and quick turn service, private snooze rooms, a business center with conference space, private pilot lounge, a newly renovated passenger lounge, and a surround sound-equipped theater room. Finally, private aviation passengers, like those at Million Air Dallas, have the ability to fly into 5,000 smaller airports, rather than the 500 commercial hubs accessed by major airlines and airports. “This means optimizing your most important asset: time,” says VP of Sales Amy Bowers. In early 2025, Million Air Dallas launched its MAnext Brand to represent its aircraft management and charter divisions. “As the

company expanded, we made the strategic decision to separate our business lines to better serve clients around the world,” says Tolentino. “This structure preserves the strength of the founding brand while enabling MAnext to focus exclusively on delivering premium, high-touch ownership and travel solutions.”

Aircraft management by a professional service like MAnext enables owners to sell their aircraft for 20 percent more on average. “We ensure 360-degree, transparent ownership—a partnership, not just a service,” adds Amy Bowers, vice president of aircraft management at MAnext. “We maximize your investment by offering an optional, professionally managed charter program, enabling owners to offset significant costs while retaining priority access and complete financial visibility. Our goal is to be your trusted aviation partner and make ownership seamless.”

PILOTED BY MANY WOMEN LEADERS

Bowers, Hexter, and Tolentino are among the 14 percent of women who hold senior leadership roles in private aviation. All three are 20+-year industry veterans. “We have an exceptional team of career aviation professionals who work hard for our clients and operate with integrity in everything we do,” says Hexter, who began her career in aviation as a commercial pilot, before becoming a flight scheduler at Million Air Dallas post 9/11. “Over the course of my career with Million Air Dallas and MAnext, I have worked exclusively within the flight operations department, progressing from flight specialist, to manager of flight operations,

and now, director of charter operations,” she says. Bowers began her career at Executive Jet Management, building the company’s Texas market from the ground up. “This included securing new aircraft management clients and driving charter revenue to keep our fleet busy,” she says. She then worked at the now defunct Dallas-based Wheels Up, helping the brand fill its weekday schedule. Now, she is leading growth for MAnext. “I am leveraging my extensive experience with this established aviation company, a 40-year legacy poised for its next chapter of expansion,” she says. MAnext has recently grown to serve Houston, Austin, Fort Worth, and more. Tolentino has spent her entire career in private aviation with Million Air Dallas. She began in line service for Million Air Dallas and has risen through positions in customer service, accounting, and flight operations, before landing in her current role overseeing business development, marketing, HR, and business operations for Million Air Dallas and MAnext. “Learning to navigate industry downturns and architect and execute strategic growth processes has handed me some of the biggest achievements along the way,” she says. Piloted by these women leaders and the entire leadership team, Million Air Dallas and MAnext only hope to grow and continue perfecting and expanding the luxury services they offer. “Million Air Dallas continues to work on expanding the ground handling services that it provides at Addison Airport,” Tolentino says. And MAnext is continuing to expand operations. “Once we conquer the Texas charter and jet management service sector, the sky’s the limit!” she adds.

BY AMY TINNIN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Homemade Dog Food

Recipe from Amy Tinnin - A Cup Full of Sass

My two pugs are more than pets—they’re part of the family. That’s why I started making their food at home, and it’s been one of the most popular posts on my blog. You may be surprised just how easy this recipe is. I add all the ingredients to my slow-cooker to cook, and my dogs love it. If you decide to try this recipe for your pet, please consult your veterinarian. Every dog has different needs based on age, weight, and any health issues. You can even share this recipe with your vet to see if any changes are needed. The ingredients are flexible and can be easily swapped to substitute the turkey for chicken or beef, and even try different dog-safe vegetables. Making dog food at home isn’t hard—it just takes a little planning, and my dogs love it.

Slow Cooker Homemade Dog Food

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs ground turkey (85% lean)

• 1¼ cups frozen sweet potatoes

• 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots

• 1 cup frozen spinach

• 1½ cups uncooked brown or white rice

• 4 cups water

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.

2. Break up the ground turkey and mix all the ingredients.

3. Cover and cook on High for 3–4 hours or Low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally.

Note: My dog food was ready in 3½ hours on High. Let cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for later use.

Meet Dr. Diana Velicu Gardner

SHE’S THE HIGHLAND PARK ORTHODONTIST THAT EVERYONE IS SMILING ABOUT

ARTICLE BY DAVID MUSCARI

Crafting confidence with patients of all ages is what Dr. Diana Velicu Gardner does best, engineering smiles with purpose and precision, and reshaping lives at LVL Orthodontics. “Our greatest strength lies in delivering high-quality, customized care to patients of all ages, from children to adults seeking complex correction or esthetic refinement,” she says. “We combine advanced digital technology with a warm, personalized approach to create confident, lasting results.” LVL’s state-ofthe-art office offers a contemporary, welcoming environment that makes every visit comfortable and family-friendly. The practice is built on excellence, integrity, and transformation with the aspiration to be the most trusted destination for care, one beautifully aligned smile at a time. Unlike high-volume, multi-location practices where patients are rushed through a system, LVL offers boutique-level attention and consistency at every visit. “We provide orthodontic solutions for the entire family, regardless of age or difficulty,” says Dr. Velicu Gardner. LVL is uniquely equipped to handle the full spectrum of orthodontics under one roof. LVL also welcomes patients affected by different craniofacial syndromes. “We are capable of being part of a multidisciplinary team,” she says. The practice recently introduced in-house laser treatment, such as gingivectomies, frenectomies, and soft tissue exposures, so patients don’t have to see another provider. “With advanced technology like iTero scanning, digital X-rays, and remote monitoring, we make every visit efficient and precise,” says Dr. Velicu Gardner. “We are in-network with many of the largest insurance providers, making exceptional care more accessible and affordable for Park Cities families.” Outside of the office, Dr. Velicu Gardner has a unique story of her own. She grew up as a competitive alpine skier in Romania and represented her country on national and Olympic teams.

The pressure-packed experience instilled discipline and resilience, skills she uses as a successful

orthodontist. (She also speaks five languages.) After retiring from skiing, Dr. Velicu Gardner graduated at the top of her dental school class and was named Romania’s Student of the Year in 2018. “It was a huge moment of pride,” she says. Dr. Velicu Gardner moved to the U.S. to pursue advanced training at UCLA, where she served as chief resident and led research in collaboration with NASA, doing work that was recognized nationally and internationally. “I was incredibly humbled to be named to Forbes Romania’s 30 Under 30 list in 2021 and receive the global TOYP (Ten Outstanding Young Persons) award in 2024.” Beyond clinical care, she is committed to mentoring. “Whether it's sharing my journey, lecturing on orthodontic innovation, or advocating for leadership in healthcare,” she says. She serves as Director for the Texas Association of Orthodontists and is deeply committed to helping shape the future of our profession. Her husband, Luke Gardner, is a Highland Park native. Today, the newly married couple resides in the Park Cities. Dr. Velicu Gardner says LVL Orthodontics’ philosophy elevates the orthodontic experience through personalized care, clinical excellence, and genuine connection. “We believe that every patient, regardless of age or case complexity, deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their smile journey.” The LVL mission is to build trust, confidence, and long-term relationships by combining cutting-edge technology with a warm, community-centered approach in a safe, inspirational environment. Dr. Velicu Gardner is passionate about connecting with people and growing and creating spaces where everyone feels seen and supported. “LVL Orthodontics is not just about straightening teeth; it's about building confidence and celebrating progress every step of the way,” she says with a smile. LVL Orthodontics  6401 Hillcrest Avenue | Suite 200 | Dallas, TX 75202 469.455.1355 |  info@lvlortho.com

I provide a safe space where patients of all ages feel truly heard, understood, and involved in their care. Every patient deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their smile journey.

TREY & KATIE KENNEDY

ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE

Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.

Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.

Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.

ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”

Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.

After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”

The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.

FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY

Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.

Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.

ARTICLE BY LAUREN STONE

From tiny dancers to future stars, The Dallas Conservatory combines world-class training with joyful creativity to nurture young performers from their first steps to center stage.

Where Talent

Takes Root

In a city brimming with talent, The Dallas Conservatory stands as both a training ground for future stars and a haven where young artists begin to dream big. From toddlers twirling in their first dance class to teens preparing for Broadway stages, the Conservatory offers more than instruction; it’s a launchpad for professional careers and a sanctuary where creativity and confidence flourish “At The Dallas Conservatory, our mission is to nurture and elevate young talent through world-class training in dance, music, theater, and the performing arts,” Associate Artistic Director Clair Culin says. “Whether a child dreams of Broadway or ballet, or simply finds joy in movement and music, we’re committed to developing not

just skilled performers, but confident, disciplined, and inspired young people.” What sets this school apart is the unique blend of elite instruction and a genuinely supportive atmosphere. With small class sizes, partnership with parents, and faculty that includes former principal dancers and Broadway professionals, students receive top-tier training while being seen and championed as individuals. “We believe excellence and encouragement go hand-in-hand,” Culin shares. “While our expectations are high, our care for each child runs even deeper. This balance is what allows our students to thrive—not just technically, but emotionally and creatively.” For those pursuing a serious path in the arts, the Conservatory’s pre-professional programs are nationally recognized— and the results speak volumes. “Of the 14 classical dancers whom we’ve had accepted into America’s and one of Europe’s top classical programs, nine have become professional ballet dancers,” Culin notes. “Many others are dancing in top contemporary companies across the globe and even on Broadway. Stories like theirs reflect what we’re most proud of: helping young artists discover their voice and believe in their potential.” Even the youngest performers are welcomed into a joyful, nurturing environment. Beginning with Mommy + Me classes for toddlers, early

childhood programs build motor skills, musicality, and imagination. “Our youngest students explore movement, rhythm, and expression in a warm, welcoming environment where creativity and confidence blossom from day one,” Culin says. Community is also at the heart of the Conservatory’s mission. Public performances, such as the beloved Rockefeller Christmas at the Majestic Theater, are open to the public and showcase over 300 students each year. “These performances not only highlight our students’ technical achievement but bring our community together to celebrate the arts,” says Culin. For Park Cities families considering the arts, the Dallas Conservatory’s advice is simple: “Start small and follow their joy. Sometimes, seeing other children on stage is all the inspiration a child needs.”

CONTINUED >

“WE

BELIEVE EXCELLENCE AND ENCOURAGEMENT GO HAND-IN-HAND. WHILE OUR EXPECTATIONS ARE HIGH, OUR CARE FOR EACH CHILD RUNS EVEN DEEPER. THIS BALANCE IS WHAT ALLOWS OUR STUDENTS TO THRIVE— NOT JUST TECHNICALLY, BUT EMOTIONALLY AND CREATIVELY”

Elevate YOUR PB & J

ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

TRANSFORM YOUR HUMBLE PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY SANDWICH FROM LUNCH BOX BASIC TO GOURMET GREATNESS

Ready to give this childhood classic the upgrade it deserves? Whether you’re packing your kid’s lunch or treating yourself to something special, these elevated PB&J creations will make anyone excited for lunchtime.

THE ART OF THE UPSCALE

The secret to an elevated PB&J isn’t complicated—it’s all about premium ingredients and creative combinations. Swap that white bread for artisanal sourdough, brioche, or even croissants. Trade processed jelly for fresh fruit compotes, gourmet preserves, or actual fresh berries that burst with flavor.

Quality nut butters make all the difference. Think creamy almond butter, rich cashew spread, or that perfectly salted natural peanut butter from the farmer’s market. These simple swaps instantly elevate your sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary.

Bread Options

• Artisanal sourdough

• Brioche

• Croissants

• Multigrain bread

• Cinnamon raisin bread

• Hawaiian sweet bread

• Whole wheat bread

• Thick-cut bread (for open-face)

Nut & Seed Butters

• Natural peanut butter

• Almond butter

• Dark chocolate almond butter

• Cashew butter

• Coconut butter

• Nutella

Fresh Fruits

• Strawberries

• Fresh blueberries

• Fresh raspberries

• Fresh peaches

• Kiwi

• Mixed berries

• Bananas

• Pears

Preserves & Sweet Spreads

• Honey

• Fig jam

• Mango preserves

• Raspberry preserves

• Grape jelly

• Marshmallow cream

Toppings & Add-ins

• Fresh mint leaves

• Granola

• Toasted coconut flakes

• Cream cheese

• Everything bagel seasoning

• Dark Chocolate Syrup

COMBOS TO Try:

CREATIVE COMBINATIONS THAT HIT DIFFERENT

The Sophisticated Sweet: Nutella, sliced strawberries, and a drizzle of honey on brioche bread

The Panini Perfection: Peanut butter, fresh blueberries, and marshmallow cream pressed between sourdough slices

The Beautiful Mess: Your favorite nut butter topped with sliced fresh peaches, kiwi, or berries, then drizzled with golden honey or sprinkled with toasted coconut on thickcut bread

The Grown-Up Classic: Almond butter, fig jam, and thinly sliced pears on multigrain bread

The Breakfast Crossover: Cashew butter, sliced bananas, and a sprinkle of granola on cinnamon raisin bread

The Tropical Twist: Coconut butter, mango preserves, and toasted coconut flakes on Hawaiian sweet bread

The Chocolate Dream: Dark chocolate almond butter, raspberry preserves, and fresh mint leaves on whole wheat

The Savory Surprise: Natural peanut butter, grape jelly, and a thin layer of cream cheese with everything bagel seasoning

PRO TIPS FOR LUNCHBOX SUCCESS

Toast your bread lightly for extra texture, even if you’re making it ahead. Create a barrier with your spread to prevent soggy sandwiches—apply nut butter to both sides, then add your sweet elements in the middle. Pack fresh elements separately and assemble just before eating when possible. Cut into fun shapes with cookie cutters, wrap in parchment paper tied with twine, or pack in a bento box with complementary sides like apple slices, fancy crackers, or dark chocolate squares.

THE BOTTOM LINE

An elevated PB&J proves that sometimes the best meals come from taking something familiar and making it special. These upgraded versions will have everyone asking for the recipe—and maybe even offering to trade lunches.

AUGUST 7TH

Dallas Wings vs. Golden State Valkyries

American Airlines Center | 8:30 PM

Dallas’ All-Star Paige Beuckers and the WNBA home team take its game to Big D’s largest basketball arena for three exciting summertime contests, including an August 20 game against record-setter Caitlan Clark and Indiana. AmericanAirlinesCenter.com

AUGUST 12TH

Derek Hough, Symphony of Dance

Texas Trust CU Theatre (Grand Prairie) | 8:00 PM

The uber-popular choreographer, actor, singer, television personality, and longtime “Dancing with the Stars” judge returns to DFW with an encore performance of his popular dance series, which has delighted fans around the world. TexasTrustCUTheatre.com

AUGUST 14TH

Megan Moroney,

JP Saxe, Solon Holt

American Airlines Center | 7:00 PM

The Georgia megastar country singer made hay with her first single, “Hair Salon,” followed by “Tennessee Orange,” “Am I OK?” and “No Caller ID.” AmericanAirlinesCenter.com

AUGUST 15TH

Train

Dos Equis Pavilion (Fair Park) | 6:45 PM

With unforgettable rock radio hits like the expansive “Drops of Jupiter” and “Hey Soul Sister,” the group has spent its fair share at the top of the pop charts, now on tour celebrating 25 years of performing together. LiveNation.com

AUGUST 22ND

Zach Bryan, MJ Lenderman, Fey Fili

AT&T Stadium (Arlington) | 7:00 PM

Red-hot doesn’t begin to describe the country star, a Grammy-winning U.S. Navy veteran from Oklahoma, who found huge success with big hits like “Something in the Orange” and “I Remember Everything,” a duet with talented Texas singer Kacey Musgraves. ATTstadium.com

AUGUST 25TH

Garden Sketchbook Journaling

Botanical Gardens (Green Venue) | 6:00 AM

This creative arts workshop focuses on expressive drawing and mixed-media sketchbook techniques inspired by botanical forms and artwork throughout the Dallas Arboretum. Participants will explore artistic ways to walk in nature seeing the visual elements through close observation, experimentation, and imagination while creating a finished sketchbook page or small mixed-media artwork to take home. Instructor: Brett Dyer, Brett Dyer Art www.dallasarboretum.org

A Ballet by Kenneth Tindall

WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE | SEP 18-20

BASS PERFORMANCE HALL | OCT 2-4

WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE | nOV 27-DEC 6

BASS PERFORMANCE HALL | DEC 11-27

WYLY THEATRE | FEB 19-21

BASS PERFORMANCE HALL | FEB 26-28

WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE | MAY 14-16

BASS PERFORMANCE HALL | MAY 21-23