Soulman's Bar-B-Que, the family-owned Texas barbecue institution that has served legendary slow-smoked barbecue since 1974, expanded its East Texas footprint with the opening of its newest restaurant at 938 W. Main Street, Gun Barrel City, TX 75156. The community is invited to celebrate the Grand Opening on Saturday, September 26, featuring family-friendly activities, giveaways, and Soulman's signature Rib Eating Contest. Guests can enjoy a full afternoon of celebration featuring prizes, giveaways, exclusive food specials and the always-popular Rib Eating Contest, where local competitors will battle for barbecue bragging rights.

The opening also delivers on expansion plans that drew statewide attention earlier this year, when MySA described Soulman’s as a “North Texas BBQ empire” in its coverage of the planned Gun Barrel City restaurant. The description reflects a brand that has grown from a single Pleasant Grove restaurant in 1974 into a multi-location North and East Texas barbecue institution while remaining family-owned and focused on its original recipes, hospitality and value

"For more than 50 years, Soulman's has believed that great barbecue has a way of bringing people together," said Brett Randle, CEO of Soulman's Bar-B-Que. "That's why we're excited to join the Gun Barrel City community. We look forward to serving authentic Texas barbecue, welcoming our neighbors like family, and creating a place where memories are made around the table."

Grand Opening Celebration Details:

• Date: Saturday, September 26
• Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Location: 938 W. Main Street, Gun Barrel City, TX 75156
• Festivities Include:
• Soulman's famous Rib Eating Contest
• Prizes and giveaways
• Soulman's merchandise
• Special food offers
• Family-friendly activities

The new Gun Barrel City restaurant brings Soulman's award-winning menu to residents throughout the Cedar Creek Lake area, featuring slow-smoked brisket, ribs, sausage, pulled pork, turkey and chicken, alongside the restaurant's beloved homemade sides and famous banana pudding.

That reputation has earned Soulman’s recognition well beyond its home communities. In recent years, the brand has been named among the Best Regional Barbecue Chains to Try at Least Once (2025), Best Roadside Restaurants in America (2024) and Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2024). Across its restaurants, Soulman’s also continues to emphasize the fundamentals behind those honors—great food, attentive service and a welcoming guest experience—while its 2026 company awards recognized individual locations for Best Food, Best Customer Service, cleanliness and operational excellence.

"Opening a new Soulman's is about more than serving great barbecue—it's about being part of the community," said General Manager Erik Rasmussen. "We can't wait to welcome our neighbors, get to know the families who walk through our doors, and build the kind of place where everyone feels at home around the table."

The Gun Barrel City location continues Soulman's steady growth across North and East Texas while remaining committed to the quality, hospitality and family values that have defined the brand for more than five decades.

About Soulman’s Bar-B-Que

For more than 50 years, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has satisfied the hardest to please bar-b-que lovers….Texans!  Founded in Pleasant Grove, Texas, in 1974, Soulman’s had only a few simple goals—serve great Texas-style BBQ and offer friendly, sincere service.  With a focus on Faith, Food, and Family, Soulman’s passed-down recipes are still the foundation for the company’s success from their 8 different types of meat that are smoked “low & slow” over only hickory wood to their famous homemade sides, including Ranch house beans and Texas style cream corn! Throughout the years, this family-owned and operated company has remained true to its original strive for success and customer satisfaction and is honored to be considered one of the Best Regional Barbecue Chains to Try at Least Once (2025), Best Roadside Restaurants in America (2024), Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2024), the Best Bar-B-Que in Dallas for Takeout  & Delivery (2020), and one of the Best Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2018).

Soulman’s currently owns and operates 21 North and East Texas locations in Allen, Cedar Hill, Fort Worth, Forney, Garland, Greenville, Hurst Grapevine Highway, Lancaster, Lewisville, Mabank, Mansfield, Mesquite, Quinlan, Red Oak, Rockwall I-30, Rockwall Goliad, Royse City, Sulphur Springs, Terrell, and Van. To learn more about Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, visit them online at https://www.soulmans.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/soulmansbbq.

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The region's premier boating event brings together hundreds of boats, exclusive deals and family fun at Dallas Market Hall

For generations, North Texans have walked through the doors of Dallas Market Hall dreaming about weekends at the lake, family adventures and life on the water. From July 16–19, that tradition continues as the Dallas Summer Boat Show returns to Dallas Market Hall, bringing together hundreds of the newest boats, more than 80 leading brands and immersive experiences designed to inspire the next season of memories.

Boat shows have been a fixture at Dallas Market Hall since the early 1970s, making the Dallas Boat Show one of North Texas' longest-running consumer events. While the boats, technology and experiences have evolved over the decades, the spirit of the show has remained the same: helping families discover the freedom, connection and excitement that boating provides.

Bringing together more than 80 leading brands and hundreds of the newest models on the market, the Dallas Summer Boat Show is the region's largest boating and water recreation event, showcasing everything from sleek performance boats and luxury pontoons to personal watercraft, fishing boats and the latest marine technology. Whether attendees are seasoned boaters or first-time buyers, the show offers a hands-on opportunity to compare options, speak directly with experts and find the perfect fit for their lifestyle.

"There's something special about being part of a tradition that has helped families create memories for more than 50 years," said Bron Beal, Executive Director of the Dallas Boat Show. "People have been coming to Dallas Market Hall for generations to plan weekends at the lake and make dreams of boat ownership a reality. We take pride in continuing that tradition while introducing a new generation to everything boating has to offer."

With more than 625,000 registered boats across Texas and over a dozen lakes within a 90-minute drive of Dallas-Fort Worth, interest in boating continues to surge. The Dallas Summer Boat Show meets that demand by offering exclusive show pricing, on-site financing options and direct access to industry experts—all under one roof.

A Tradition for Every Lifestyle

The 2026 show is designed to appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets, with highlights including:

• Family-Friendly Watercraft: Discover pontoons and deck boats built for entertaining, relaxing and making memories on the water.
• High-Performance Thrills: Explore wake boats and ski boats engineered for speed, agility and watersports.
• Fishing Adventures: Browse the latest in bass boats and angling gear for North Texas' thriving freshwater scene.
• Personal Watercraft: Get up close with jet skis and compact options perfect for quick lake getaways.
• Marine Technology & Accessories: From navigation systems to safety innovations, see how technology continues to enhance the boating experience.

In addition to browsing hundreds of boats, attendees can enjoy interactive exhibits, expert-led insights on boat ownership and maintenance, and insider tips on navigating local lakes—from Lake Lewisville to Possum Kingdom.

More Than a Boat Show

For many attendees, the Dallas Summer Boat Show represents more than an opportunity to shop. It marks the unofficial celebration of a season spent making memories with family and friends on the water.

"Every boat has the potential to become part of a family's story," Beal added. "Whether it's your first boat or your fifth, this show is where so many North Texas traditions begin. We're proud to continue a legacy that has connected generations through a shared love of the water."

DALLAS BOAT SHOW DETAILS:

When: July 16-19, 2026

Where: Dallas Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, Texas 75207

Show Schedule:

Thursday, July 16, 2026 from 3-8 pm

Friday, July 17, 2026 from 12-8 pm

Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 10 am- 8 pm

Sunday, July 19, 2026 from 10 am -5 pm

Cost & Ticket Information:

Adults:                        $15

Children (ages 5-13):   $8

Children under 5:        Free

Parking is free of charge

Boating Dealers include:

Action Watersports, Big Water Marine, Boaters World Marine Center, Buxton Marine, Carey & Sons Marine, Eisenhower Yacht Club, Fun N Sun Sports Center, Boardco Boats, Marine Max Dallas, Lakeview Boating Center, NXTLVL Marine, Phil Dill Boats, Lake Kings Boats, H2GO Paddle Co, Ridenow Powersports, Slalom Shop, Texas Malibu, Texoma Boathouse, Nichols Marine

Dallas college blends creativity, industry mentorship and career-focused education to prepare students for today’s evolving workforce

As creative industries continue to evolve across Texas, Wade College is preparing students to lead at the intersection of design, business and technology through a hands-on educational experience rooted in mentorship, collaboration and real-world application. 

For more than 60 years, Wade College has built a reputation for small class sizes, individualized instruction and career-focused degree programs that help students develop professional portfolios and industry-ready skills. Located in Dallas, the college offers accelerated programs in areas including Interior Design, Information Technology, Marketing and Management, and Fashion Design & Product Development.

Among its standout programs is Wade College’s CIDA-accredited Interior Design program, where students combine creativity with technical expertise to prepare for careers shaping residential, commercial and experiential spaces. Through collaborative studio projects, portfolio reviews, client-based assignments and design showcases, students gain practical experience while developing their own creative identity.

Faculty members and industry professionals work closely with students through guest lectures, portfolio reviews, internships, mentorship opportunities and professional engagement activities that expose students to current trends and expectations within the field. These experiences help students build valuable connections while preparing them to transition confidently from the classroom into their careers.

“Our students are not just learning theory — they are actively building portfolios, solving real design challenges and learning how to think creatively in professional environments,” said Harry Davros, president of Wade College. “Our mission is to develop professionals who combine creativity, business thinking and technology skills in ways that meet the needs of today’s employers and industries.”

Wade College’s smaller campus environment allows faculty members to work closely with students on academic goals, career development and professional mentorship. This personalized approach helps students build confidence while fostering strong relationships within the college community.

“Wade feels like a community where professors know your goals and help you get there,” said one Wade College Interior Design student. “The smaller classes create opportunities to ask questions, collaborate and receive direct feedback that really helps you grow creatively and professionally.”

The college’s emphasis on creativity and innovation aligns with the continued growth of Dallas’ design, retail, marketing and technology sectors. As one of the nation’s fastest-growing business markets, Dallas offers students access to internships, networking opportunities and career pathways across a broad range of industries.

Faculty members at Wade College bring real-world industry experience into the classroom, helping students understand both the creative and business sides of their chosen fields. Students are encouraged to collaborate across disciplines, mirroring the interdisciplinary nature of modern workplaces where technology, branding, design and communication increasingly overlap.

In the Interior Design program specifically, students develop expertise in space planning, building codes, accessibility standards, life safety requirements, materials selection, lighting, drafting, sustainable design principles, professional practice and presentation skills while gaining exposure to industry-standard software and professional practices. The program’s CIDA accreditation further reinforces Wade College’s commitment to maintaining rigorous academic standards and preparing graduates to meet the evolving demands of the interior design profession.

Beyond the classroom, Wade College encourages students to participate in portfolio reviews, internships, design exhibitions, guest speaker events and professional networking opportunities that strengthen both their portfolios and their readiness for employment. This career-centered model continues to attract students seeking a more personalized alternative to larger universities.

As demand grows for professionals who can combine technical knowledge with creative problem-solving, Wade College continues to position itself as a destination for students pursuing business, technology and design education in Texas.

To learn more about Wade College programs, visit Wade College.

About Wade College

Wade College is a creative and career-focused college in Dallas specializing in business, technology, and design education. For more than 60 years, the institution has offered accelerated degree programs, small class sizes, and modern, career-focused curriculum designed to prepare students for professional careers.

Wade College offers degrees in Information Technology, Marketing and Management, Interior Design, and Fashion Design and Product Development. The college emphasizes hands-on instruction, portfolio development, and individualized mentorship that help graduates launch careers faster.

Learn more at www.wadecollege.edu

An influential cross-section of Dallas arts patrons, filmmakers, alumni, and cultural supporters gathered on May 20 for an exclusive first-look presentation of the upcoming Ingmar Bergman documentary from acclaimed filmmaker Keith Maitland, celebrating both the legendary Swedish director’s cinematic legacy and Dallas’ unique role in preserving a remarkable chapter of film history.

Held at the historic U.S. Post Office & Courthouse in downtown Dallas, the invitation-only evening served as both an intimate preview of the documentary and a successful fundraiser supporting the film’s continued production. Funds raised during the event will help support Maitland’s upcoming fact-finding and research trip this summer to Bergman’s estate in Sweden, where the creative team will continue gathering historical insight and contextual material for the film.

Guests included alumni and supporters connected to Southern Methodist University, The University of Texas at Austin, the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce Texas, and a broad network of North Texas cultural advocates and film supporters.

 The documentary draws from rare archival footage captured during legendary filmmaker Ingmar Bergman’s historic 1981 visit to SMU as the inaugural recipient of the Meadows Award. The footage includes nearly four hours of intimate conversations and master classes with students, believed to represent the longest filmed interview Bergman ever participated in.

The evening featured select clips from the documentary, followed by a live conversation between Maitland, Bergman in Dallas producer Daniel Laabs,  and Swedish producer André Persson discussing Bergman’s artistic influence, the significance of the archival footage, and the global cultural impact of the iconic director.

“Bergman’s influence reaches far beyond cinema,” said Maitland during the event. “His storytelling shaped generations of filmmakers, artists, writers, and even modern Swedish pop culture. To uncover this remarkable footage in Dallas and share it with audiences today feels both surreal and incredibly meaningful.”

The event also highlighted the enduring place Bergman holds within Swedish cultural identity. Widely regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers in cinematic history, Bergman’s work helped define Sweden’s global artistic reputation throughout the 20th century. His films, including The Seventh Seal, Persona, and Fanny and Alexander, continue to influence contemporary directors, television creators, theater artists, and broader Scandinavian popular culture.

Special recognition was given to longtime Dallas arts advocate Pat Porter for her connection to the original Meadows Award programming and her ongoing support of arts and cultural preservation in North Texas. Organizers noted that the rediscovery and restoration of the SMU archival footage would not have been possible without decades of stewardship by individuals connected to the university and Dallas arts community.

Presented in partnership with the Honorary Consulate of Sweden Dallas and the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce Texas, the evening reinforced the strong cultural ties between Sweden and North Texas while celebrating Dallas’ often overlooked contributions to film history and documentary preservation.

The upcoming documentary continues production and is expected to further explore Bergman’s creative philosophy, his influence on generations of filmmakers, and the extraordinary archival discovery housed for decades within SMU’s film archive

The region’s largest indoor pre-game party on the water features hundreds of boats, exclusive pre-season deals and fan-friendly experiences

With the Super Bowl right around the corner, fans across North Texas are planning watch parties, tailgates, and game-day gatherings. But this season, the Dallas Winter Boat Show is encouraging Texans to think bigger—and head to the water. Boatgating, the lake-loving cousin of tailgating, is one of the fastest-growing recreation trends, giving fans a way to enjoy the Big Game with sunshine, scenery, and serious style.

Whether you're hosting a viewing party on the dock, pre-gaming aboard your pontoon, tying up a line of center consoles and bowriders, or planning a lakeside watch-and-float afternoon, here are the top Boatgating 101 tips from the Dallas Winter Boat Show, returning to Dallas Market Hall this weekend February 5–8, 2026.

1. Pick the Perfect Boatgating Setup: Comfort, Space & Style

While pontoons and tritoons remain the go-to favorites for hosting larger groups thanks to their wide decks and lounge-style seating, they’re far from the only boatgate-ready options popular on North Texas lakes.

Bowriders and runabouts, staples on lakes like Lewisville, Ray Hubbard, and Grapevine, make excellent game-day cruisers with versatile seating and built-in coolers.

Deck boats offer pontoon-like spaciousness with sportier handling—perfect for fans who want room to spread out without sacrificing speed.

Center console and bay boats, commonly seen on Lake Texoma, provide wide open deck layouts ideal for standing room, mingling, and easy access to coolers and snacks.

Fishing boats aren’t just for anglers—many come equipped with powerful audio systems and elevated casting decks that double as great standing/viewing spots during a floating watch party.

Even personal watercraft (PWCs) like jet skis can get in on the fun when rafted up next to a primary host boat, giving thrill-seekers their own floating “seats” for pre-game hangs.

And of course, for the watersport-loving crowd, wake surf boats bring big energy (and the best audio systems) for an amped-up pre-game playlist.

Pro Tip:
At the Dallas Winter Boat Show, shoppers can compare dozens of pontoons, bowriders, center consoles, wake boats, and fishing boats side-by-side to find the right mix of seating, storage, tech, and entertainment features.

2. Create a Game-Winning Food & Drink Strategy

Boatgating food needs to be delicious but easy to handle. Skip complicated spreads and aim for handheld, no-mess favorites:

• Individual nacho cups
• Sliders or street tacos
• Pre-skewered fruits, veggies, or meats
• Single-serve dips
• Mason-jar salads
• Canned cocktails & mocktails

Keep it simple, organized, and cold using a color-coded “game-day cooler.”

3. Turn Up the Entertainment with a “Float-In Theater”

If you're hosting on the dock or at a marina slip, create a floating watch party with a portable projector and weatherproof screen. Some fans raft multiple boats—pontoons, bowriders, or even center consoles—so everyone gets a great view.

Many newer pontoons, cruisers, and wake boats now come with integrated screens or smart TV hookups, something visitors can explore hands-on at the Boat Show.

Pro Tip:
Use waterproof Bluetooth speakers or the boat’s built-in audio system to broadcast commentary or pump up the energy with pre-game playlists.

4. Show Your Team Spirit—Lake Style

Festive décor makes a boatgating setup come alive. Fans love:

• Team-colored pillows & blankets
• LED rope lights
• Custom boat flags
• Inflatable goalposts
  Floating drink holders
  Branded coolers

You’ll find plenty of lake-friendly accessories in the gear aisles at the Dallas Winter Boat Show.

5. Safety First: Keep It Fun, Keep It Smart

Just like tailgating on land, boatgating comes with responsibilities. The Dallas Winter Boat Show recommends:

• Designating a sober captain
• Checking weather conditions
• Using non-glass containers
• Securing electronics and cords
• Ensuring enough life jackets for all ages
• Anchoring properly when rafting with friends

6. Make It Instagram-Ready

A memorable boatgate doubles as great social content:

• Score-prediction reels
• Pets in team colors for the Puppy Bowl
• Before-and-after boat décor transformations
• A “floating stadium wave” video

7. Plan Your Upgrade for Next Season

The Big Game unofficially marks the start of summer boating prep. If your current boat could use more seating, better sound, updated tech, or improved storage, the Dallas Winter Boat Show is the best place to browse 2026 models with exclusive incentives.

Whether you're considering a pontoon, center console, deck boat, bowrider, surf boat, fishing boat, cruiser, or PWC, the show makes it easy to score a great pre-season price.

Boatgating Starts Here: Join the Dallas Winter Boat Show

From floating tailgates to lakeside watch parties, boatgating is becoming one of Texas’ favorite ways to celebrate game day. With its massive selection of boats, gear, demos, and family activities, the Dallas Winter Boat Show has everything fans need to level up their Super Bowl experience—and their 2026 lake season.