The exhibition will be on view to the public from June 5 until June 30, 2026, at The Pool Near Southside, located at 1801 8th Avenue, Fort Worth, TX, 76110. An opening reception will be held on June 5, from 6 to 8 pm.

The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth’s Teen/Artist Project (TAP) is an ongoing program in which the Museum partners with regional and national teaching artists to expand the knowledge of art, analysis, and techniques for young, aspiring artists. High school students are selected to participate in the free TAP program through a portfolio and application process. An important objective of TAP is for both students and visiting artists to develop a personal and meaningful relationship with the Modern and its holdings through close, continuous investigation.

Visiting artists work with the Modern Education Department to design relevant and challenging seminars spanning one to four weeks. These artist-run workshops include transdisciplinary conversations within the museum galleries and corresponding projects in the museum’s studio.

With every TAP season, students glean rich insights into the ideas and practices of the makers and thinkers they’ve had the opportunity to work with, as well as develop their own attitudes and impulses within the field of contemporary art.

2025–2026 TAP Students

Rainen Bailey

Trinyti Beasley-Mitchell

Iola Chesney

Teddy Cordell

Grace Curran

Penelope Diamantopoulos

Beetle Fenoglio

Leslie Guzman

Haylei Hamilton

Leila Knox

Victoria McCauley

Ruby McNab

Avni Montoya

Keily Raya

Alaina Spaltro

Chloe Swinford

Tori Sky Thurmond

Teryn Utz

2025–2026 TAP Visiting Artists

Francisco Josue Alvarado Araujo

Christopher Blay

Ari Brielle

Krissy Bodge

Xxavier Edward Carter

Greg Meza

Christopher Mosley

Keer Tanchak

Paul Winker

The post The Modern’s Teen/Artist Project Annual Exhibition first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

SUMMER’S HERE!!! Even though the summer equinox isn’t until June 21, June marks the unofficial start of summer. School’s out, vacations are planned, and there’s so much to do in Fort Fun! As always, we’ve collected some of the best things to do in Cowtown this June, so be sure to bookmark this page to refer to all month long!

Art Tales
Wednesdays in June and July, starting June 3
Amon Carter Museum of American Art

Listen to stories, play games, create your own masterpieces, and enjoy artistic performances every Wednesday in June and July from 10 am to noon.

Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Ghost Machine
June 10 through July 5
Stage West

Sherlock Holmes is pulled from retirement by the theft of Nicola Tesla’s and Thomas Edison’s newest inventions. Can he unravel the mystery before the world ends?

Hadestown
June 5-7
Bass Performance Hall

Combining the stories of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone, the multiple award-winning Hadestown pits industry against nature, doubt against faith, and fear against love.

Sparkfest ‘26
June 5-14
Amphibian Stage

Celebrate Latine artists in 10 days of plays, workshops, music, and more in the fifth annual Sparkfest.

Flora & Form: Printmaking Workshop in the Modern Shop
June 5
The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

In conjunction with the special exhibition, Rashid Johnson: A Poem for Deep Thinkers, learn printmaking and take home your work.

Summer Kick Off Party
June 6
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

Bubbles! Music! Sweet treats! And plenty of hands-on fun in the sun!

Nature School: Ranch in the City
June 8
Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge

Learn to be an urban rancher at the Fort Worth Nature Center!

Mumford & Sons: Prizefighter Tour
June 8
Dickies Arena

Mumford & Sons bring their Prizefighter Tour to Dickies with special guest Dylan Gossett.

Yacht Rock: It Rocks… But Not Too Hard
June 9-28
Casa Mañana

Grab your deck shoes and get ready to… sway gently to the sounds of the ‘70s and ‘80s.

Freedom Vibes 2026
June 14-20
Various locations

Celebrate Juneteenth with concerts, art, speakers, and community.

Blow a Bigger Bubble Show
June 13
Clifford Crossing Library

Bubbles! Enjoy bubble tricks, marvel at bubble sculptures, and (sssshhhhhh!) learn bubble science.

Homemade Ice Cream Class
June 13
Log Cabin Village

Beat the heat and learn how to make your own ice cream!

Soccer player kicks the ball vigorously at the stadium

FIFA World Cup 2026
June 14-July 14
Various Locations

The best players from around the world come to North Texas.

Family Festival: Ice Cream Sunday
June 19
Kimbell Art Museum

Make art, play games, enjoy music and live performances, and eat ICE CREAM!!!

Creepy Critters
June 18
Wedgwood Library

Interact with all sorts of creepy crawlies and learn a little about them to make them less creepy.

Opal’s Walk for Freedom 2026
June 19
Start at Farrington Field

Celebrate America’s 250^th birthday and Dr. Lee’s 100^th birthday! Thank you, Dr. Lee!

Father’s Day Cookout
June 20
Fort Worth Zoo

Celebrate Dad with a cookout (with animals!) that he doesn’t have to cook!

A Night with Ethel Waters: Jubilee Theatre’s 46^th Birthday Celebration
June 21
I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM & VPA

Celebrate 46 years of powerful storytelling and unforgettable performances with Jubilee Theatre with A Night With Ethel Waters.

Art Camp, Ages 5-7
June 22-26
The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

Your little artists will explore the museum and grounds of the Modern before making their own masterpieces.

The Notebook
June 23-28
Bass Performance Hall

Based on the book that inspired the movie, The Notebook tells the story of an enduring love. Warning: Bring your hankies.

Family Craft Night
June 23
Meadowbrook Library

Leave the screens behind and enjoy an evening of creating!

RUSH: Fifty-Something Tour
June 24, 26, 28, and 30
Dickies Arena

Celebrate 50 years of rock as Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson take the stage for the first time since Neil Peart’s death in 2020.

Refuge After Hours
June 25
Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

Revel in a summer night’s dream complete with lightning bugs!

Photo courtesy of Amon Carter Museum of American Art

Midsummer Mingle 2026
June 26
Amon Carter Museum of American Art

Celebrate life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as the Carter Society observes the 250^th anniversary of the United States of America.

Dinos ROCK!
June 27
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

Stomp, explore, and ROAR as the FWMSH celebrates all things dinosaur.

The post Spring’s Done, June’s Begun: Fun in the Fort first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Mackinac Island is magical. There’s so much to see and do, and I love that my children get to grow up experiencing this little slice of heaven.

I’m always giddy when we leave the ferry and walk towards the island’s famous fudge shops, where fudge is made by hand in front of you on large marble slabs. I always want to try every flavor. Thankfully, the fudge shop proprietors let you do just that. These shops make ten thousand pounds of fudge a day during the summer. Every day.

When our editor asked what my happy place was, I had a hard time answering. I thought of my favorite places to vacation around the world. The one thing that each place had in common was a feeling of warmth, deep love, connection, and community. When I pictured each place, I saw my family with me, relaxing away from the cares of the world.

That is when it clicked. I love Mackinac because it pulls me back in time and away from today’s distractions. Without cars, life slows down. It seduces you into putting your phone away. (One year, I tried to capture a video while riding my bike and nearly crashed. I quickly put my phone away and did not pick it back up.)

Imagine a life without constant notifications, where movement is slower, and meals are homemade. That simplicity feels rare.

My family talked for years about buying a home in Michigan. There was something about the island that stayed with us. It drew us back, year after year. The community itself is small, with only a few hundred year-round residents, but the residents are deeply connected to one another.

This connection is one of the reasons the island is so special. You feel it in the smiles of strangers, in the quiet kindness of a passerby, and in the way people acknowledge one another. Mackinac Island is not just beautiful, it is intentional, welcoming, and deeply human.

But back to a typical day on Mackinac Island.

Located near the fudge shops is my favorite cookie shop, the Mackinac Island Cookie Company. They sell traditional favorites like sugar cookies and snickerdoodles, but Michigan cherries are truly second to none, so the cherry chocolate chunk cookie is a must.

This shop is special for more than its cookies. It’s the person behind the cookies who gives it meaning. Kate Conlon lives on the island year-round now. As we talked about Mackinac, I could hear the excitement in her voice. She lit up as she shared how she had spent her summers there growing up and how she had always dreamed of living on the island.

“Everything feels so much more intentional here,” Conlon said. “There’s nothing that compares to Mackinac, and there’s just something living and breathing about this island that, once you feel connected to it, never leaves you.”

It makes perfect sense why someone like Conlon would choose to build a life on Mackinac Island. I understood the pull. I feel it, too.

After a stop at the cookie shop and a few souvenir stores, we usually rent bikes. I rent a bike with a hitch for our four-year-old, and my husband rents a tandem bike for himself and our six-year-old. Then we usually head to our first stop, a school playground right on the water with a beautiful view of the Mackinac Bridge.

The kids play on the monkey bars and chase each other around the playground. We always get pulled into their play, too, all of us smiling and laughing. After a while, the adults need a break, and we sit on a bench facing the water, eating cookies and taking in the boats sailing across Lake Huron.

After a short break, we load up the bikes and headed along the west side of the island. There are other cyclists along the route, but it never feels crowded; friendly faces are always passing by. In the distance, we hear the sound of hooves. A horse-drawn carriage rounds the corner, heading back toward Main Street after dropping off overnight guests.

We pull off the road at a small turnout. Our younger usually falls asleep in his seat in the bike hitch, so we let him rest while our older explores and throws rocks into the water. We take a few pictures with Arch Rock in the distance before starting our hike to see it from above.

The steps are easy to navigate, just numerous. The climb feels long, especially while carrying a sleeping thirty-five-pound toddler, but the view at the top makes every step worthwhile. The arch is tall and striking, and visitors gather in waves to observe and admire. My adventurous six-year-old asks if he can climb the one-hundred-and-forty-six-foot arch. I point out the clearly posted “do not climb” sign and keep a close eye on him as we admire the view.

When the next group arrives, we head back down. The walk down is much easier, and soon we’re back on our bikes, continuing the eight-mile loop around the island.

We make our way back to Main Street, where we stop at Watercolor Cafe. They’re known for their homemade Pop-Tarts, which often sell out early (so get there early), and for their lavender lattes, which are unforgettable.

We sit with our coffee while the kids run freely through Marquette Park. In that moment, we’re not focused on the lovely historic homes or the sailboats serenely drifting across the water. We’re watching our children be children, reveling in their laughter, their freedom, their joy.

I can’t help but think that this is what childhood should be. Connection – not to devices, but to each other and their surroundings.

This is the true gift of Mackinac Island. Beyond the horse-drawn carriages, the quaint houses, the fudge, and the breathtaking views, the island offers visitors a rare gift. It gives you time, presence, and uninterrupted connection with the people you love most.

And that is what makes it my happy place.

The post Where Time Slows and Connection Grows first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Open social media, and you’ll see thousands of before-and-after photos touting some miraculous diet, some wonder drug, some phenomenal program that promises to melt the pounds away without effort.

Yes, losing weight is easy. Changing your mindset to keep the weight off is a whole different matter. Instead of focusing solely on calorie restriction or intense exercise, Sensotherapy offers a different perspective – one rooted in the relationship between taste, appetite signaling, and the body’s biochemical responses.

At the center of this innovative approach is Dr. Michael Cherkassky, internist and inventor who developed Sensotherapy as a method designed to address cravings and psychological hunger through sensory stimulation and biochemical pathways. Sensotherapy is supported by Dr. Cherkassky’s four decades of practicing medicine and his research into peptides and satiety hormones.

“People want instant gratification,” Nurse Practitioner Dr. Tammy Tyler said. “They’re often getting ready for weddings or a special event. But if we can sit and listen, hear their needs, and help them meet those needs, we can help them with their overall health.”

“Our goal is sustainable weight loss,” Dr. Cherkassky added. “There is fast and easy, and there is sustainable and maintainable.”

Dr. Cherkassky developed Sensotherapy to help suppress his patients’ appetites and reduce the urge to overeat through combinations of flavors, spices, proteins, salts, and sensory stimulation delivered orally. Certain sensory experiences in the mouth and digestive system influence neural signals of satiety before excessive food consumption occurs.

Appetite is not controlled merely by willpower. It is influenced by a network of hormones, neurotransmitters, and gastrointestinal peptides that communicate with the brain. These peptides, including hormones involved in digestion and satiety, help regulate hunger, fullness, and cravings.

Peptides have become one of the most exciting frontiers in modern medicine. Peptides influence metabolism, tissue repair, hormone balance, cellular signaling, and appetite regulation. Modern peptide research includes applications in regenerative medicine, obesity treatment, anti-aging therapies, and targeted drug delivery systems.

Sensotherapy anticipated many of today’s discussions about gut-brain signaling and appetite hormones long before peptide therapies became mainstream. Dr. Cherkassky’s work shows that sensory stimulation and biochemical signaling work together to reduce compulsive eating behaviors. Rather than simply forcing patients to eat less, Sensotherapy works to influence the body’s own satiety mechanisms.

Using a combination of weight loss medicines tailored to your individual needs, Dr. Cherkassky and Dr. Tyler help you learn how to control your food intake. “There are no restrictions on what you can eat,” Dr. Tyler said. “You don’t have to go out and buy a lot of expensive ‘diet’ food. The only restriction is in how much you can eat.”

To support you as your body acclimates to the restricted calorie intake, Dr. Cherkassky has developed a kit of homeopathic products to address different types of hunger, along with a sample meal plan. The kit includes thermogenic appetite suppressants, a spray to help with mental hunger, and a paste to address cravings. Dr. Cherkassky also invented lollipops that kill hunger almost immediately, rather like migraine rescue medications work to kill a migraine.

So innovative is Sensotherapy that Dr. Cherkassky has been awarded three U.S. Patents for it.

To further help you on your journey, Dr. Tyler works with you to create a plan tailored to your precise metabolic needs. Peptides affect everything from skin quality to muscle healing and regrowth to hormone regulation. Dr. Tyler’ research into peptides affords you the most cutting-edge support as you lose weight.

Sustainable weight management still requires nutrition, lifestyle changes, medical oversight, and individualized care. “We are available six days a week,” Dr. Cherkassky said. “We support you through the initial weight loss and the maintenance after.”

“There’s so much judgment around our weight,” Dr. Tyler said. “Our society approaches weight gain as a moral failing, forgetting that there are biomechanical and emotional triggers. We make sure you won’t feel guilty. You’re not going to struggle with hunger or with guilt. We look you in the eye. We listen as you talk. We want you to trust us. Once you establish that trust, you can move mountains.”

Innovation begins when physicians challenge conventional assumptions. Dr. Cherkassky asked whether taste receptors, oral stimulation, and peptide signaling could be harnessed together to help patients regain control over appetite. The answer, it turns out, is yes.

If you are ready to start your journey to better health, visit www.weightlossfor.us.

The post Weight Loss Pioneer: Dr. Michael Cherkassky of Sensotherapy first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Tanglewood Moms: Congratulations, Ms. Vice President of Marketing! You’re a longtime friend of Tanglewood Moms and Madeworthy, but I would love to introduce you to our members and readers who might not be aware of your awesomeosity. Can you tell us a little bit about your personal and professional background?

Katherine Curtis: Thanks, Lee. I’m blushing. First and foremost, I’m a Horned Frog! TCU is how I first arrived in Fort Worth in the late 1900s (as the kids say today), and I absolutely fell in love with the city. I officially called Fort Worth home in 2005 and have worked in the non-profit world in both fundraising and marketing ever since. I’ve had the honor of being a graduate of Leadership Fort Worth’s Leading Edge program, a board member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Fort Worth Metro Chapter, Junior League Fort Worth, TCU Alumni Association Fort Worth Chapter, and, most recently, Laundry Love Fort Worth. I also serve as a BuildStrong Ambassador for Trinity Habitat for Humanity and as a member of the Fort Worth Advisory Council of The Salvation Army. Growing up in Memphis, TN, my mom volunteered (and still does) and would often take me with her, so giving back to my community is ingrained into who I am. The fact that I also get to give back through my professional career is simply the icing on the cake. When I’m not at work or volunteering, I’m at the soccer field with my husband, watching our 15-year-old son play goalie for his club team, where I’m also the team manager. I really don’t know how not to be busy.

TWM: I know that you’re not even a month into your role, but what do you think your biggest challenge will be in marketing live theater in an increasingly digital world?

KC: The biggest challenge, I think, is encouraging people to put down the screen and come see the show live! So much can be viewed digitally now, including theatre. But the experience of sitting in the audience and watching the actors live will never be replaced by a screen. Emotions hit differently when in person, plus live theatre makes a great date night or family outing. The energy that fills the Dome during a live performance – the music, the acting, the audience – brings the stage to life in a way that never happens on screen, even in a movie theater. Plus, supporting your local theatre supports the local community, which, for me, is always a big win.

TWM: You are in charge of promoting all of Casa Mañana’s programs – Broadway, children’s theater, the programs at the Reid Cabaret, and all of the educational programs. How different are your approaches to promoting each program?

KC: The beauty of Casa Mañana is that there is a show for every type of theatre patron. Our Cabaret offers an intimate evening performance of live music, great for a girls’ night out or date night. Our Broadway Season brings actors from New York to Fort Worth, teams them with local actors, and creates local productions of award-winning shows. And our Children’s Theatre Season is a fantastic introduction to the theatre, with shorter shows that are always family-friendly. When promoting our various seasons, I don’t think about the different audiences as much as I think about the different experiences patrons will have.

One of the components of Casa Mañana that I’ve truly loved learning more about is the School for Musical Theatre. The classes offered throughout the year welcome students as young as pre-K. Whether you are interested in acting, dancing, or singing, there is a class for all aspects of musical theatre, led by industry professionals. Marketing these programs to schools, theatre departments, and our patrons with children brings Casa Mañana full circle, as children enjoying shows on the main stage can become the actors on it.

TWM: What is Casa Mañana doing to make theater more accessible to all of Fort Worth?

KC: I love this question because I had no idea we offered any of this until I started on staff – and I want everyone to know.

We are currently in the process of becoming sensory-friendly-certified through Kulture City for our Children’s Theatre productions. Certain Sunday morning performances of the Children’s Theatre shows are sensory-friendly. There are certain aspects of each show that can be adjusted to make the experience more enjoyable for children and adults with sensory sensitivity, whether in sound, lighting, or stage actions, as well as the lobby experience, which creates a sensory-friendly environment from the moment patrons walk through the doors.

For our Broadway productions, Tuesday evening performances are ASL-interpreted. Knowing that more individuals use ASL to communicate means we are reaching a new group of patrons by offering ASL interpreted shows.

My favorite aspect of our accessibility program, which is part of our School for Musical Theatre, is the All Abilities Class. This year-long class brings together a variety of ages and abilities to learn musical theatre and wraps up with a production of their own. My second week on the job, I attended this year’s All Abilities Class production of The Sound of Music. I was blown away. Their friends and family filled the theatre. The actors were in full costume, singing, dancing, and acting out the well-known show. I still smile when I think of this performance. Many of the students in this class return year after year

TWM: Next season’s Broadway shows are pretty amazing! What is something that you want our readers to know about the season?

KC: I am excited about next season and my first full season at Casa Mañana! Season tickets are on sale now, and it’s the easiest way to guarantee your seat to Frozen. The season starts with Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of Temptations in September, Frozen in November, and 2027 brings us Dear Evan Hansen in February and Beautiful: The Carol King Musical in May. Our Broadway shows mix New York Broadway actors with our local talent, bringing the show to life on a set created right here in Fort Worth. Casa Mañana has its own scene production crew, costume department, and props department. The team behind each of our shows lives and works right here in Fort Worth. It’s a beautiful blend of New York and Fort Worth’s finest, bringing the magic of the stage to life.

TWM: Can you give us a peek at the 2026-2027 Children’s Theater season?

KC: Our Children’s Theatre includes four shows starting in October with Rapunzel! Rapunzel! A Very Hairy Fairy Tale. Our holiday show, A Christmas Carol, is a new musical production created by Casa Mañana based on the holiday classic. We kick off 2027 with Shrek the Musical in January and wrap up the season with Finding Nemo in March. And those who purchase season tickets now have the option to add on Frozen before individual tickets go on sale, which is the best way to secure your seat.

The beauty of the Children’s Theatre Season is that the shows truly are created with children in mind. They are, on average, an hour and a half with an intermission – perfect for a young theatre patron. And, with our Children’s Theatre shows, squirming in your seat is fully allowed.

TWM: Why should someone buy season tickets instead of purchasing tickets for a single show?

KC: Here are my top three reasons to purchase season tickets this year:

1. Season tickets guarantee your seat for each show. If you like a schedule, you know when your show will be and where you will be sitting.
2. There are special add-on shows you can purchase before they go on sale to the general public. For Broadway Season tickets, you can add on the one-night only The Music of Elton John (with tickets selling quickly) and our Apprentice Program production of Blood Brothers. For Children’s Theatre Season tickets, you can add Frozen, which is the best way to secure seats for this Disney favorite.
3. By supporting Casa Mañana with season tickets, you are supporting your local Fort Worth theatre- the artists, the crews, and the community that comes together to bring theatre to life.

TWM: Is there anything new for the 2026-2027 season that our readers should know about?

KC: The fun new part of the Children’s Theatre this year is our Casa Mañana Kids Club. With a $250 or more donation, your family can enjoy the Casa Carnival, bringing the magic of the stage into the heart of the building, as well as select benefits themed around each Children’s Theatre show. Through these events, we are creating a new generation of theatre patrons who will grow up to one day support their local theatres themselves.

photo credit: Chip Tompkins

TWM: And finally, you don’t just work for a theater, you’re a theater lover. What do you say to someone who says that they don’t think live theater is very interesting?

KC: I grew up going to the local theatre in Memphis with my family. My first Broadway show in NYC was The Phantom of the Opera when I was in sixth grade. I have vivid memories of holiday shows in Memphis and the first time watching the chandelier crash during Phantom. These are priceless memories that come to mind every time I think about the theatre.

I also hear people say they don’t believe they would like live theatre or that it’s “not their thing.” What I say to them: “Make the memories. See the shows.” Pick something that interests you and go see that show. Are you a fan of Motown? Get tickets to see Ain’t Too Proud. Do you have kids who love Shrek? Take them to see Shrek the Musical. The beauty of the theatre is that every production is unique to that particular show. Not every show is for every patron, but every potential patron will find a show they truly enjoy.

The post Worthy Convos: Katherine Curtis on All Things Casa Mañana first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

From Left: Gigi Howell, Mark Harris and Bourke Harvey
Photo courtesy of Westland

The post It’s a New Chapter for Roy Pope first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Of course, vacation means summer reads. Whether you want something light and fluffy, dark and creepy, or just a good ol’ huge honkin’ history, we’ve got you covered!

• Most Ardently Yours by Freya Sampson (available July 7, just in time for the beach!)
• The Last Mandarin: A Novel by Louise Penny and Mellissa Fung
• Journey to Nowhere: A New World Tragedy by Shiva Naipaul (re-release available July 14)
• Broken Dove by Dani Francis
• Dolly All the Time by Annabel Monaghan
• Whistler by Ann Patchett
• The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate – Discoveries from a Secret World by Peter Wohlleben
• It Will Come Back to You by Sigrid Nunez
• Cloudthief by Nathaniel Rich (available July 14)
• Canon by Paige Lewis
• Daughters of the Sun and Moon by Lisa See
• Honey by Imani Thompson
• The Unicorn Hunters by Katherine Arden
• The Danger to Be Sane: Creativity and the Eccentric Mind by Rosa Montero
• We Hexed the Moon: A Novel by Mollyhall Seeley
• Beginning Middle End by Valeria Luiselli (available July 28)
• The Love Haters by Katherine Center
• Rules for the Summer by Meghan Quinn
• American Patriarch: The Life of George Washington by H.W. Brands
• With a Vengence: A Novel by Riley Sager
• June Baby by Shannon Garvey
• Good Joy, Bad Joy by Mikki Brammer
• It Could Have Been Her by Lisa Jewell (available June 23)
• Ungodly Rich by Katherine McGee (available July 7)
• The Travel-ing Dictionary by Ella Morton
• John of John by Douglas Stuart
• The Calamity Club: A Novel by Kathryn Stockett
• A Murder in Hollywood by Michael Crichton (this thriller was written in 1973 but only released two weeks ago!)
• Love Overboard by Kandi Steiner
• The One Day You Were My Husband by Rosie Walsh
• The Great Wherever by Shannon Sanders
• The Last Page by Katie Holt
• London Falling: A Mysterious Death in a Gilded City and a Family’s Search for Truth by Patrick Radden Keefe
• Etna by Paul Yoon
• You Won’t Get Free of It: Stories of Mothers and Daughtersby Rachel Aviv (available July 7)
• Summer in the City: A Novel by Alex Aster
• King of Gluttony by Ana Huang
• The Bookshop: A History of the American Bookstore by Evan Friss

Stay tuned for next week’s summer reading suggestions for kids!

The post Tanglewood Moms’ Summer Reading 2026 first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Madeworthy: What inspired you to start La Pulga Spirits, and what was the moment you knew this idea had real potential?

Sarah Castillo: Having spent years in the restaurant business, I’ve been fortunate to taste a wide range of tequilas and visit distilleries across Mexico. But many of the larger brands never truly resonated with me. I was searching for something more authentic – a small-batch tequila, crafted with consistency, quality, and all-natural ingredients. That pursuit ultimately led me to cross paths with my partners, Stephen Slaughter and Andrew De La Torre, who shared the same vision to create a portfolio of exceptional Mexican spirits. That moment sparked the beginning of La Pulga.

Photo courtesy of La Pulga Spirits

MW: “La Pulga” is a distinctive name. What does it represent to you, and how does it connect to your brand’s identity?

SC: The name “La Pulga” was inspired by the liveliness and vibrancy of open-air flea markets, found throughout Mexico and here in Texas, where community, culture, and celebration come together. That spirit is exactly what drew us to the name, and it remains at the heart of everything we do. It’s the same sense of connection and shared experience captured in every bottle of our spirits.

MW: How does your heritage or personal background influence the flavors and storytelling behind La Pulga Spirits?

SC: In several meaningful ways. Mexico is part of my family’s heritage, and that’s something I carry with a deep sense of pride. It shapes not only our respect for tradition, but also our commitment to authenticity in every bottle. At the same time, my background in the hospitality industry has had an equally strong influence. Hospitality professionals are the backbone of our communities; they show up every day to create experiences and bring people together, often without much recognition. That perspective is central to how we think about La Pulga, and that’s why we call it “The Spirit We Share.” It reflects our belief that tequila should be inclusive, approachable, and rooted in connection, something that brings people together and can be enjoyed by everyone.

MW: This is our Travel issue. If you were to suggest a place of interest for a Mexican tequila expedition, where would you suggest our readers go and where should they stay?

SC: By law, tequila can only be produced in five states in Mexico, but the heart of it all is Jalisco, home to the vast majority of tequila distilleries and the birthplace of tequila itself. For anyone planning a true tequila expedition, Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, is the perfect starting point. Fortunately, it’s an easy trip from here, with multiple direct flights daily from DFW, and once you arrive, you’re stepping into one of Mexico’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities. Guadalajara offers world-class restaurants, beautiful hotels, historic architecture, and a deep connection to tequila heritage. From there, you can venture out to the Jalisco Highlands, where La Pulga Tequila is produced, or to the region’s lowlands, where the town of Tequila is located. For anyone looking to truly understand tequila, Guadalajara should be at the top of the list.

Photo courtesy of La Pulga Spirits

MW: What has been the most unexpected challenge in building your brand, and how did you navigate it?

SC: One of our challenges has been standing out in an increasingly crowded category. There’s a lot of great tequila, mezcal, and sotol out there, so from day one, we knew we had to clearly communicate what makes La Pulga different, not just in taste, but in identity and purpose. We’ve approached that by making every touchpoint of the brand tell a story. Of course, the liquid itself is exceptional — truly some of the best-tasting spirits I’ve ever experienced — but we’ve also been very intentional about how the brand comes to life visually and emotionally. Our bottles are steeped in Mexican folklore and cultural symbolism, immediately signaling where we come from and what we stand for. We even finish each bottle with a keepsake medallion around the neck, something people often hold onto long after the bottle is gone. That level of detail turns the packaging into more than just a container; it becomes a storytelling tool. By staying authentic and consistent in how we present ourselves, we’ve been able to cut through the noise and create a brand that people connect with on a deeper level.

MW: If someone is trying La Pulga Spirits for the first time, what should they start with—and how do you recommend they enjoy it?

SC: It really comes down to personal taste. If you gravitate toward clean, bright, unaged spirits, something perfect for sipping on the rocks or mixing into a great margarita, start with our La Pulga Blanco Tequila. If you prefer something a bit more rounded and expressive, La Pulga Reposado offers that balance of agave character with subtle oak influence. And for whiskey drinkers, La Pulga Añejo is a great bridge. It’s rich, smooth, and ideal for sipping neat or even in an elevated Old Fashioned. I’d also encourage people not to overlook our mezcal. It’s a very distinctive expression, less smoky than many expect, with more vegetal notes, like green pepper, that make it incredibly approachable and unique.

MW: The spirits industry has historically been male-dominated—what has your experience been as a female founder, and what changes are you seeing?

SC: While the spirits industry has historically been male-dominated, I’ve never really approached it from that lens or felt like an outsider. From the beginning, we were intentional about building a team that included strong, talented women, and that’s shaped both our culture and how we show up as a brand. What’s exciting is that we’re seeing real momentum across the industry. More women are founding, leading, and influencing spirits brands than ever before, not as a trend, but as a reflection of the talent and perspective they bring to the table. As new brands emerge, the leadership behind them is becoming more diverse, more dynamic, and more representative of the people who actually enjoy these products. There’s still progress to be made, but the shift is happening, and it’s making the industry stronger, more creative, and more inclusive.

Photo courtesy of La Pulga Spirits

MW: Where do you hope to take the brand in the next five years—are there new products, markets, or collaborations on the horizon?

SC: Over the next several years, our goal is to continue building La Pulga into a brand that thrives both at home and well beyond it. Fort Worth, and Texas as a whole, will always be at the heart of who we are, and we’re incredibly proud of that foundation. At the same time, the past couple of years have been focused on expanding beyond Texas, and it’s been exciting to see how the brand resonates in new markets. Looking ahead, we plan to continue that momentum, thoughtfully growing distribution and bringing La Pulga to more consumers across the country. We’re also exploring opportunities to expand the portfolio in ways that stay true to our commitment to quality, authenticity, and storytelling. And yes, collaborations are definitely part of the future. We’re always looking for like-minded partners who share our values and can help us create something unique, so there’s more to come on that front!

MW: The sub-theme of this issue is “Happy Place”. Tell us where your Happy Place is and why.

SC: That one’s easy. My “Happy Place” isn’t tied to a specific location; it’s a moment. It’s wherever I’m gathered with friends and family, sharing a bottle of La Pulga (that’s why we affectionately call it “The Spirit We Share”). That’s what truly defines my Happy Place: being present with the people who matter most, creating memories together, one pour at a time.

The post Made in Fort Worth: La Pulga Spirits first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Through 130 carefully selected artifacts from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and the Luxor Museum, Treasures of the Pharaohs offers rare insights into the daily life, social structures, religious practices, and legacies of the Egyptian pharaohs. Three thousand years of ancient Egyptian history are presented through an array of dazzling royal treasures expertly crafted from gold, granite, lapis lazuli, and other precious materials, along with objects that reveal the inner workings of this sophisticated civilization that continues to intrigue, influence, and inspire the modern world. Treasures of the Pharaohs will be on view at the Kimbell from March 14 through September 19, 2027, in the museum’s Renzo Piano Pavilion.

Armchair of Princess Sitamun, New Kingdom, Dynasty 18, reign of
Amenhotep III (c. 1386–1349 BC). Gilded wood and reed, 30 1/4 x 20 1/2 x
21 1/4 in. (77 x 52 x 54 cm). Royal tomb, Tell el-Amarna. Egyptian Museum
in Cairo
Photograph by Massimo Listri

“Treasures of the Pharaohs will awe,” said Eric M. Lee, the museum’s director. “From the scale and splendor of some of the artifacts on view to the revelations about day-to-day life and inclusion of objects from one of the most recently excavated sites in Egypt, visitors will find this exhibition brilliant, both visually and intellectually.”

The exhibition paints an unparalleled picture of the lives of the pharaohs, from the grandeur surrounding their kingship, deity worship, and elaborate preparations for the afterlife, to the strict hierarchies and day-to-day routines of the people around them—a highly organized bureaucracy critical to maintaining Egypt’s divine kingship. Key aspects of ancient Egyptian civilization are explored through six thematic sections: The Treasures of the Pharaohs; People Around the Pharaohs; Religion and Beliefs: The World of Gods and Goddesses; Daily Life in Ancient Egypt; The Golden City; and Death and the Afterlife in Ancient Egypt.

Akhenaten and His Family Worshipping the God Aten, New Kingdom,
Dynasty 18, reign of Amenhotep IV / Akhenaten (c. 1353–1336 BC).
Painted limestone, 20 1/2 x 18 7/8 in. (52 x 48 cm). Royal tomb, Tell el-
Amarna. Egyptian Museum in Cairo
Photograph by Massimo Listri

Objects that proclaim the pharaohs’ power and status range from monumental granite statues to elegantly designed gold jewelry and richly decorated furnishings. In contrast to royal art, newly discovered artifacts from King Amenhotep’s workers’ community within the “Golden City” in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings will be introduced to North America for the first time, providing a glimpse into the lives of those often overlooked in presentations of ancient Egyptian art history. Statues representing various deities, carved and painted stone funerary stele, and lavishly decorated sarcophagi and other exquisite tomb furnishings convey the religious beliefs that shaped the Egyptian understanding of the world and the afterlife.

Pectoral Pendant of Amenemope, Third Intermediate Period, Dynasty 21
(c. 1069–945 BC). Gold, lapis lazuli, feldspar, and glass, 3 3/4 x 4 5/8 in.
(9.6 x 11.6 cm). Tomb of Amenemope, Tanis. Egyptian Museum in Cairo
Photograph by Massimo Listri

Highlights include works directly associated with pharaohs and their families, dating from Dynasty I (c. 3100 BC) to the Ptolemaic period (321 BC). Among them are some made in precious metal: the golden sarcophagus of Queen Ahhotep, the gold funerary mask of Amenemope, the golden sarcophagus of Thuya, the gold funerary covering of Pharaoh Psusennes I, the gold collar of Psusennes I, the painted and gilded wooden Canopic Box of Yuya with Sloping Lid on a Sled, and the gilded wooden chair of Princess Sitamun. Sculptures in stone are also represented, including the carved schist Menkaure Triad and the limestone relief of Akhenaten and His Family. A rare manuscript, the Hieroglyphic Funerary Papyrus of the Songstress of Amoun Djedkhonsuiusankh, is also featured.

Treasures of the Pharaohs is currently on view at the Scuderie del Quirinale in Rome, where it is on track to become one of the most highly attended exhibitions in the museum’s history.  After its close in Rome on June 14, 2026, the exhibition will be on view at the de Young museum in San Francisco from August 1, 2026, through January 31, 2027, prior to its presentation in Fort Worth.

Inty-Shedu, Overseer of the Boat of the Goddess Neith, Old Kingdom, late
Dynasty 4 or early Dynasty 5 (c. 2613–2345 BC). Painted limestone, 29 1/2
x 10 1/4 x 10 5/8 in. (75 x 26 x 27 cm). Upper cemetery of the Pyramid
Builders Necropolis, southeast of the Sphinx, Giza, Cairo. Egyptian
Museum in Cairo
Photograph by Massimo Listri

The exhibition curator is Dr. Tarek el-Awady, former director of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The exhibition is accompanied by a major scholarly catalogue by Egyptian archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass. The exhibition’s presentation at the Kimbell is organized by Jennifer Casler Price, senior curator of Asian, African, and ancient American art.

“These remarkable works offer a broad perspective on the lives of the pharaohs and those who served them,” said Casler Price. “From stunning treasures that convey the power and awe of divine kings, to the humble yet fascinating objects of everyday life, this exhibition illuminates the glory and wonder of ancient Egyptian civilization.”

EXHIBITION ORGANIZATION

The exhibition is organized by the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, the Kimbell Art Museum, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), in collaboration with ALES SpA, the in-house company of the Italian Ministry of Culture, and MondoMostre.

SUPPORT

Promotional support for the Kimbell Art Museum and its exhibitions is provided by American Airlines, NBC 5, and Fort Worth Report. Additional support is provided by Arts Fort Worth and the Texas Commission on the Arts.

VISITOR INFORMATION

Admission to the museum’s permanent collection is always free. Admission to special exhibitions is half-price all day on Tuesdays and after 5 p.m. on Fridays.

The Kimbell Art Museum is open Tuesdays through Thursdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Fridays, noon–8 p.m.; Sundays, noon–5 p.m.; closed Mondays, New Year’s Day, Juneteenth, July 4, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. For general information, call 817-332-8451.

The post Treasures of the Pharaohs Coming to the Kimbell first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Tanglewood Moms: Hi, Tristan! Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Tristan Luescher: Hi! My name is Tristan Luescher, and I am a junior at South Hills High School here in Fort Worth. Outside of school and Scouting, I am really into skateboarding, making music, and hanging out with my friends. Music is something I am genuinely passionate about, and I spend a lot of my free time working on it. It is something I hope to pursue in the future.

TWM: Can you tell us a little about your history with Scouting?

TL: I have been in Scouting for most of my life. I started in Cub Scouts when I was around 5 years old and worked my way through the program before crossing over into Boy Scouts at around age 10. I have been with Troop 554 here in Fort Worth under the Longhorn Council ever since. Over the years, I have taken on more responsibility within the troop and worked my way through the ranks to Life Scout, which is where I am now. Eagle Scout is the final and highest rank, and my service project is the last major requirement to earn it.

TWM: How has Scouting affected you, and how has it changed the way you interact with people and the world?

TL: Scouting has taught me a lot of practical skills, such as how to handle myself in the outdoors, how to be prepared for just about anything, and how to stay calm when things do not go according to plan. But honestly, the bigger impact has been on how I see other people. Scouting really pushes you to think beyond yourself and to look for ways to help those around you. I think it has made me more patient, more understanding, and more aware of the world outside my own bubble. A lot of those things are hard to learn in a classroom.

TWM: Please tell us about your Eagle Scout project.

TL: My Eagle Scout project is called “Pack It Forward: One Bag at a Time.” I am assembling 1,000 Blessing Bags for individuals experiencing homelessness in Fort Worth. Each bag is packed with essentials, including two water bottles, electrolyte packets, a granola bar, beef jerky, mixed nuts, fruit snacks, peanut butter crackers, and cookies. Items that are easy to carry and provide real nutrition and hydration throughout the day. The bags will be distributed through two local organizations: Presbyterian Night Shelter and True Worth Place will receive 750 bags, and Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County will receive 250 bags. Every single bag goes directly into the hands of someone in need, and 100% of donations go toward supplies, and nothing is kept by my troop or me.

TWM: Why did you choose to make 1,000 Blessing Bags for the unhoused population of Fort Worth?

TL: I wanted to do something that would make a real and immediate impact on as many people as possible. Fort Worth has around 2,400 people experiencing homelessness, and while our local shelters do amazing work, there are still a lot of people out on the streets who need something portable they can carry with them during the day. A Blessing Bag is simple, but it solves a real problem for someone who has very little. When I thought about what project would put something tangible in the most hands possible, this felt like the right answer. One thousand people will have something because of this project. That means a lot to me.

TWM: How can we help you make those Blessing Bags?

TL: There are two easy ways to help! The first is through my Amazon Wish List, where you can pick specific items that ship directly to us, so even buying one bag of mixed nuts or a box of granola bars makes a real difference when you need 1,000 of everything. The link is amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2RAKJUY7ES4OW. The second way is through our GoFundMe at gofundme.com/f/eagle-scout-project-helping-1000-homeless-in-fort-worth-xcu4u, where cash donations are used to purchase supplies. Every single contribution helps, no matter the size.

TWM: Can you tell us a little about the community packing event on May 31st?

TL: On May 31st, we are hosting a community volunteer packing event at First Church International, located at 1212 S. Grants Lane in Fort Worth, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. That is where everything comes together as volunteers sort and pack all the supplies into the 1,000 bags. All ages are welcome, and it should be a really fun afternoon. We hope to get 40 to 60 volunteers so we can get everything packed as efficiently as possible. The more hands, the better! Krispy Kreme and Little Caesars are generously providing food and drinks for everyone who comes out, so volunteers will definitely be taken care of. The completed bags will then be delivered to our shelter partners on June 1st. WFAA ABC will cover the event.

TWM: How will achieving Eagle Scout affect your role in Scouting? Will you continue?

TL: Eagle Scout is a huge accomplishment and one I have been working toward for a long time. It takes a lot of dedication, and I am proud to be this close to finishing. After I earn the Eagle Scout rank, I plan to stay active in Venturing Crew, the older youth program in Scouting. I want to stay connected and hopefully give back some of what Scouting has given me over the years.

TWM: What are your plans for life after high school?

Music is my biggest passion, and my first goal is to attend a music production school like Full Sail University to pursue it seriously. If that path does not work out, I am also interested in going to trade school to learn a skilled trade. Either way, I want to be doing something I care about and building something for myself.

The post Worthy Convos: Tristan Luescher on Packing It Forward first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.