Shaping the Future: Everything You Need to Know About the RISD Bond 2025 on the Ballot
A Comprehensive Guide to the Richardson ISD Bond Referendum (November 4, 2025) The Richardson Independent School District (RISD) Board of Trustees voted during the August 7, 2025, board meeting to place three separate bond propositions before voters in the upcoming November 4 election. This RISD Bond 2025 package, totaling $1.4 billion, is designed to address prioritized needs across facilities, safety, technology, and student instructional programs. What is a School Bond? Texas independent school districts issue bonds to pay for major capital expenditures, such as new construction, renovations, and large equipment purchases. How it Works: School district bonds are similar to a home mortgage. The district borrows money from investors and repays it over time using revenue generated from the district’s property taxes (specifically the Interest & Sinking or I&S rate). Total Amount: The total value of the three propositions in Bond 2025 is $1.4 billion. Proposition A: Facilities, Safety, CTE, and Middle School Transformation Proposition A is the largest component, addressing core facilities, security, and major academic infrastructure projects. Key Projects Included in Proposition A: Middle School Transformation Completion: This initiative will complete the conversion of the six remaining junior high campuses that were not part of Bond 2021 capital projects: Apollo Liberty North Parkhill West Westwood Note: This initiative aligns RISD with over 95% of Texas districts by permanently moving 6th grade students from elementary schools into middle schools, based on a 2020 study and community input. New Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center: Construction of a new facility to serve students from all four high schools. This center will: Expand access to specialized, hands-on programs. Prepare students for high-demand careers. Offer options to earn industry certifications. Renovation of the Environmental Studies Center: The center, which has served students for 50 years, will undergo significant updates due to its current condition and shifting into the floodplain. Planned improvements include: Modernized facilities. Improved accessibility. Expanded capacity for student learning. Proposition B: Technology Refresh In accordance with state law, technology devices must be presented as a separate proposition. Key Projects Included in Proposition B: Technology Refresh/Replacement: Funding for new devices for all staff and students (teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators, and students). Student Connectivity: Provision of WiFi hotspots to support digital learning access for students outside of school. Proposition C: Stadium Upgrades and ADA Compliance Proposition C focuses on stadium infrastructure, which state law requires to be presented separately due to high occupancy. Total Value: $7,400,000 Affected Facilities: Upgrades for the district’s two largest stadiums: Eagle/Mustang and Wildcat/Ram. Planned Projects: ADA Seating Upgrades: To comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. LED Lighting Replacement. Turf Replacement. Understanding the Tax Impact of RISD Bond 2025 Approval of the Bond 2025 is projected to result in a modest tax rate adjustment. Projected Tax Increase: An estimated $0.04 I&S (Interest & Sinking) tax rate increase is anticipated based on current projections. Estimated Monthly Impact: For a home with an average market value of $500,000 in RISD, this increase is estimated to be approximately $124 annually, or about $10 per month. Important Tax Context: The calculation assumes the passage of a constitutional amendment to increase the state-mandated homestead exemption to $140,000. The tax increase calculation includes the RISD 10% local option homestead exemption. Exemptions for homeowners over 65 are not affected by this potential tax increase. The overall RISD tax rate ($1.1052 per $100 of taxable value) adopted by the Trustees recently is the district’s lowest since 1989. Voting Dates and Historical Context Early Voting: October 20 to October 31 Election Day: Tuesday, November 4 RISD has traditionally operated on a five-year bond cycle since 1996, and the community has historically supported all school bond referendums since 1951. Capital projects funded by the last bond referendum (Bond 2021) were completed this past summer. For additional information, including the full schedule of community information sessions, visit the official district website at risd.org/bond2025.
Get Active: The Best Sports & Recreation in Richardson 2025
Richardson offers a wealth of opportunities for staying active, whether you’re a serious athlete or just looking for a fun way to spend your weekend. Based on the results of our community ballot and presented by Richardson Life Magazine, we’re pleased to reveal the winners of the Best of Richardson 2025: Sports & Recreation category! These businesses and venues have been celebrated for providing excellent facilities and experiences for our community. This is your definitive guide to finding the “best sports club in Richardson,” “local recreation centers,” or the “best outdoor activities near me.” These winners are the community’s top picks for fun and fitness. You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Driving Range: Winner: The Golf Ranch | http://www.golfranchusa.com/ Best Golf: Winner: Sherrill Park Golf Course | http://www.sherrillparkgolf.com Best Gym: Winner: Richardson Fit Body Boot Camp | http://fitbodybootcamp.com Best Health & Fitness Club: Winner: Richardson YMCA | http://www.richardsonymca.org Best Martial Arts: Winner: Sun Lee Taekwondo | http://www.sunleetaekwondo.com Best Pilates Studio: Winner: Cornerstone Pilates | https://richardsonpilates.com/ Best Pool Hall: Winner: Billiard Den | http://billiardden.com Best Swimming Pool/Waterpark: Winner: Heights Family Aquatic Center | http://www.cor.net Best Yoga Studio: Winner: Yoga Chikitsa | http://www.yoga-chikitsa.com Congratulations to all the winners! You help make Richardson a great place to live an active and healthy life. We hope you’ll take some time to explore these fantastic recreational opportunities!
Shop Local: The Best Shopping in Richardson 2025
From unique boutiques to essential local markets, the shopping scene in Richardson is vibrant and full of character. Based on the results of our community ballot and presented by Richardson Life magazine, we’re excited to present the winners of the Best of Richardson 2025: Shopping category! This guide is a showcase of the retail establishments that have won the hearts of local shoppers. If you’re on the hunt for the “best shopping in Richardson” or a “boutique near me,” look no further. This list of winners is a great resource for discovering the most beloved places to shop in our city, as voted by the community. You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Antique and Vintage Shop: Winner: Cottonwood Market | https://shopcottonwoodmarket@gmail.com Best Auto Dealership: Winner: North Central Ford | http://www.northcentralford.com Best Bicycle Shop: Winner: Bike Mart | http://www.bikemart.com Best Book Store: Winner: Half Price Books | https://www.hpb.com/ Best Boutique: Winner: Beyond the Door | https://Facebook.com/Beyond the Door VIP Group Best Bridal/Formal Wear: Winner: Get Noticed Boutique | https://shopgnb.com Best Children’s Clothing and Gifts: Winner: Vivi’s | https://vivisvictorypark.com Best Florist: Winner: Lizzie Bee’s | https://lizziebeesflowershoppe.com/ Best Garden Store/Nursery: Winner: Bruce Miller Nursery | https://brucemillernursery.com Best Gift Store: Winner: Beyond the Door | https://Facebook.com/BeyondtheDoorVIPGroup Best Health Food Store: Winner: Natural Grocers | http://www.naturalgrocers.com Best Men’s Clothing: Winner: Lombardo Custom Apparel | https://lombardocustomapparel.com Best Music and Instrument Store: Winner: Caraway Strings | http://www.carawaystrings.com Best Outdoor Outfitters: Winner: Half Moon Outfitters | http://www.halfmoonoutfitters.com Best Resale/Consignment Store: Winner: Uptown Cheapskate | https://www.uptowncheapskate.com › location › richardson Best Shopping Center: Winner: II Creeks | https://www.iicreeksplaza.com Best Thrift Store: Winner: Simply Grace | https://simplygracethriftstore.com Best Women’s Clothing: Winner: Beyond the Door | https://Facebook.com/Beyond the Door VIP Group A big round of applause for all the winners! Your contributions make shopping in Richardson a truly enjoyable experience. Be sure to visit these top-rated businesses and show them your support!
Finding the Best: Top Services in Richardson 2025
Whether you’re looking for a dependable auto repair shop or a trustworthy home services provider, the Best of Richardson 2025 winners for the Services category are here to help. This annual event, presented by Richardson Life Magazine, and based on the official community ballot, is a testament to the hard work and quality that these businesses bring to our community every day. When you need to find the “best services in Richardson,” this list provides a trusted, community-voted resource. These winners have been recognized for their professionalism, quality of work, and excellent customer service. You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Accounting Firm: Winner: Ronald J. Poff. PC/Brian A. Poff, CPA | http://poffcpafirm.com Best Architect: Winner: Alliance Architects, Inc. | https://www.alliancearch.com/ Best Bank: Winner: Texas Bank and Trust | https://www.texasbankandtrust.com/ Best Bookkeeping/Tax Service: Winner: Tannery Company | https://tannerycompany.com/ Best Car Wash: Winner: Vibe Car Wash | http://www.vibecw.com Best Child Care: Winner: The Heights CDC | https://theheightscdc.com Best Construction Company: Winner: BRYJO Roofing and Remodeling | https://www.bryjo.com/ Best Contractor: Winner: BRYJO Roofing and Remodeling | https://www.bryjo.com/ Best Co-Working Space: Winner: The Drawing Board | http://www.thedrawingboarddfw.com Best Customer Service: Winner: Sweet Firefly | http://www.sweetfirefly.com Best Drapery and Upholstery: Winner: Serendipity Designs | https://www.serendipityds.com/ Best Dry Cleaner: Winner: Minsky Cleaners & Tailors | http://minskytux.com Best Embroidery Shop: Winner: Logotology | http://logotology.com Best Financial Institution: Winner: Texas Bank and Trust | https://www.texasbankandtrust.com/ Best Financial Planning: Winner: Tannery Company | https://tannerycompany.com/ Best Hair Salon: Winner: Saint Anita | https://saintanita.co Best Heating & Air Company: Winner: AC Pros | https://www.acprostx.com Best Home Remodeling: Winner: Justin Thyme Homes | http://www.justinthymehomes.com Best Insurance Agency: Winner: Assurnet Insurance Agency | https://www.assurnet.biz Best Interior Designer/Firm: Winner: Elizabeth Ryan Interiors | http://www.elizabethryaninteriors.com Best Jeweler: Winner: Pampillonia Jewelry | https://pampilloniajewelers.com/ Best Kitchen & Bath Remodeler: Winner: BRYJO Roofing and Remodeling | https://www.bryjo.com/ Best Landscape Architect: Winner: Blooming Vistas | https://bloomingvistas.com/ Best Landscaper: Winner: Blooming Vistas | https://bloomingvistas.com/ Best Law Firm/Lawyer: Winner: Chris Quillen @ Scheef & Stone | http://solidcounsel.com Best Life Coach: Winner: Abby Cameron/Indigo Coaching | https://www.indigocoaching.net Best Marketing and Communications Company : Winner: Heights Strategic Marketing | http://heightsstrategic.com Best Mechanic: Winner: Northrich Automotive | https://www.northrichauto.com/ Best Mortgage Company: Winner: Texas Bank and Trust | https://www.texasbankandtrust.com/ Best Moving and Storage: Winner: Full House Moving | http://fullhousemoving.com Best Nail Salon: Winner: Q Nails | https://qnailsrichardson.com Best New Home Builder: Winner: Shaddock Custom Builders & Developers | https://shaddockcustom.com Best Oil Change: Winner: Hi Five Auto Care | https://www.facebook.com/HiFiveAutoCare/ Best Painter: Winner: Platinum Painting of Richardson | http://www.platinumpaintingrichardson.com Best Pet Boarding/Daycare: Winner: Wag Hotels – Richardson | https://www.waghotels.com/ Best Photographer: Winner: RD Images | https://www.rdimages.com/ Best Plumber: Winner: Dried piper | https://www.driedpiper.com/ Best Pool Service: Winner: Scuba Dudes | http://scubadudespool.com Best Printing/Copying: Winner: The UPS Store at Canyon Creek | https://store6894@theupsstore.com Best Promotional Products: Winner: Logotology | http://logotology.com Best Property Management Company: Winner: Brickyard Property Management | http://www.brickyardpm.com Best Real Estate Agency: Winner: Angela Green Team-Keller Williams Central | https://angela.green@kw.com Best Real Estate Agent: Winner: Kobs & Martin | https://kobsandmartin.com/ Best Roofing Company: Winner: BRYJO Roofing and Remodeling | https://www.bryjo.com/ Best Shipping: Winner: The UPS Store at Canyon Creek | https://store6894@theupsstore.com Best Shoe Repair Store: Winner: Shoemaker | 972-235-2441 Best Tanning Salon: Winner: Palm Beach Tan | https://palmbeachtan.com/locations/tx/richardson-north-coit Best Tire Shop: Winner: Richardson Discount Tire and Auto Repair Best Title Company: Winner: Republic Title | https://www.republictitle.com Best Travel Agency: Winner: Mollie Romness, Rosedale Travel | https://www.rosedaletravel.com Best Veterinarian: Winner: Integrative Veterinary Wellness | http://integrativeveterinarywellness.com Thank you to everyone who participated in the voting process. Your feedback helps us all find the best services Richardson has to offer. We congratulate all the winners on this well-deserved recognition!
Community Pride: The Best Local Businesses in Richardson 2025
The heart of Richardson lies in its local businesses, the cornerstones of our community. The Best of Richardson 2025 event for the Local category, presented by Richardson Life magazine, highlights the neighborhood gems that are essential to our city’s character. These are the small businesses and community organizations that have been recognized for their exceptional service and unwavering commitment to Richardson, all based on the results of our community ballot. When you’re searching for a “local Richardson business” or a “community favorite,” this directory has the answers. These winners represent the best of the best, as chosen by the people of Richardson. You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Church: Winner: First United Methodist Church Richardson | https://www.fumcr.com Best Community Activist: Winner: Rev. Cathy Sweeny | https:// cathy@arapahoumc.org Best Local Athlete: Winner: Cason Wallace | https://www.instagram.com/cason.wallace/ Best Local Cause: Winner: Network of Community Ministries | https://www.thenetwork.org Best Local educator: Winner: Karen Fields | https://schools.risd.org/SpringCreekES/principal/ Best Local Hero: Winner: RFD Chief Curtis Poovey | https://curtis.poovey@cor.gov Best Local Cause: Winner: Network of Community Ministries | https://www.thenetwork.org Best Local Influencer: Winner: Koko and Chantelle | https://www.instagram.com/kokoandchantelle Best Local Sports Team: Winner: RHS Baseball | http://rtxbaseball.com Best Local Website/Blog: Winner: made-by-sgk.com Best Neighborhood: Winner: Canyon Creek | https://www.canyoncreekhomeowners.com/ Best Nonprofits and Charitable Organizations: Winner: Network of Community Ministries | https://www.thenetwork.org Best Philanthropist: Winner: Charles Eisemann | http://www.eisemanncenter.com Best Place to Get Married: Winner: Richardson Women’s Club | http://www.rwctx.org Best Place to Work: Winner: Texas Bank and Trust |https://www.texasbankandtrust.com/ Best Podcast: Winner: First United Methodist Church Richardson (More Than Sunday) | https://www.fumcr.com Best Preschool: Winner: First United Methodist Church Richardson (Preschool) | https://www.fumcr.com Best School: Winner: Richardson High School | https://schools.risd.org/ Best Staycation Location: Winner: Renaissance Hotel | https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dalrd-renaissance We’re so proud to celebrate these incredible winners. They embody the spirit of Richardson and make our city a truly special place to call home. Thank you for voting and showing your support for these local favorites!
Your Guide to Health & Wellness: Best of Richardson 2025 Winners
Taking care of yourself is a top priority, and Richardson is home to some of the best health and wellness businesses around. We are excited to announce the community’s choice for the Best of Richardson 2025 in the Health & Wellness category, presented by Richardson Life magazine and based on the official ballot results. These winners have demonstrated a commitment to helping our community feel their best, inside and out. This is your go-to directory for finding the “best gym in Richardson,” the “best spa,” or a “local yoga studio.” The businesses on this list have been nominated and voted on by residents, making them the most trusted and highly-regarded providers in the area. You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Acupuncture: Winner: Victor Manuel, Texas Acupuncture Research Institute Best Audiologist: Winner: Gomer Hearing Center | http://www.gomerhearing.com Best Children’s Dentist: Winner: Children’s Dental Specialist | https://www.childrensdentalspec.com/ Best Chiropractor: Winner: Quiroz Chiropractic | https://www.quirozchiropractic.com/ Best Counseling: Winner: Dallas Art Therapy | http://dallasarttherapy.org Best Day Spa: Winner: The Spa at II Creeks | http://www.thespaatiicreeks.com Best Dentist: Winner: Watson Family Dentistry | https://jamesmwatsondds.com/ Best Dermatologist: Winner: North Texas Dermatology Richardson | http://www.usdermatologypartners.com Best Emergency Care Clinic: Winner: Texas Health Breeze Urgent Care | http://breeze.care.texashealth.org Best Eye Care: Winner: Dr. Dan Hardin | https://dan.hardin@myeyedr.com Best Hospital: Winner: Methodist Richardson Medical Center | https://www.methodisthealthsystem.org/ Best In-Home Care Elder Services: Winner: Senior Living Specialists | http://www.seniorlivingspecialists.com Best Laser Eye Treatment: Winner: Richardson Eye Associates | http://www.richardsoneyeassociates.com Best Massage: Winner: Modern Thai Spa | http://www.modernthaispa.com Best Medical Group: Winner: Spring Creek Medical | https://springcreekmed.com/ Best Medical Spa: Winner: Premier Med Spa | http://premiermedspatx.com Best OBGYN: Winner: Advanced OB-GYN Associates | http://advancedobgynassociates.com Best Orthodontist: Winner: Mills Orthodontics | https://www.millsorthodontics.com/ Best Pediatrician: Winner: Richardson Pediatric Associates | https://www.richardsonpediatricassociates.com Best Pharmacy: Winner: Arapaho Pharmacy | http://www.mygnp.com Best Physical Therapist: Winner: Michael Massenburg | 972-234-1114 Best Physical Therapy/Rehab: Winner: Richardson Spine & Sports | http://www.txptp.com Best Physician: Winner: Diane Litke, MD | https://MethodistHealthSystem.org Best Senior Assisted Living Facility: Winner: Twin Rivers Assisted Living and Memory Care | https://www.TwinRiversAssistedLiving.com Congratulations to all the winners! Your dedication to promoting a healthy lifestyle is an invaluable part of the Richardson community. We encourage everyone to support these local businesses and start their journey to better health.
Savor the Flavor: The Best Food & Drink in Richardson 2025
Congratulations to the winners of the Best of Richardson 2025: Food & Drink category! This annual event, presented by Richardson Life magazine, is based on the official community ballot, which celebrates the restaurants, cafes, and bars that make our city a foodie paradise. From fine dining to casual bites, these are the places that have earned the city’s highest honors. This list serves as your official guide to the best food and drink establishments in Richardson. When you’re searching for the “best restaurant in Richardson” or “best bar near me,” you can trust that these winners have been recognized by the people who know the city best—you! You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Bagels and Bakery: Winner: La Casita Bakeshop | https://lacasitagarden.com/ Best Bar: Winner: Lockwood Distilling Company | https://lockwooddistilling.com Best Barbeque Restaurant: Winner: Ten50 | http://www.ten50bbq.com Best Bartender (Name & Place): Winner:Grace @ Guitars & Growlers | http://guitarsandgrowlers.com Best Beer or Wine Store: Winner: Richardson Beer and Wine | https://www.richardsonbeerandwine.com/ Best Beer Selection: Winner: Four Bullets Brewery | https://www.fourbulletsbrewery.com Best Boba Tea: Winner: Fat Straws | http://fatstraws.com Best Breakfast: Winner: First Watch | http://firstwatch.com Best Brewery: Winner: Four Bullets Brewery |https://www.fourbulletsbrewery.com Best Brunch: Winner: Dream Cafe | http://dreamcafelakewood.com Best Buffet Restaurant: Winner: Afrah Mediterranean Restaurant | http://www.afrah.com Best Catering: Winner: Justin Box with Good Guys Catering Co. Best Chef (Name & Place): Winner: Justin Box Best Chicken Restaurant: Winner: Chick-fil-A | https://www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/tx/cityline?utm_source=yext&utm_medium=link Best Chicken Wings: Winner: Wing’d Nut | https://wingdnut.com Best Chinese Restaurant: Winner: Jeng Chi | http://www.jengchirestaurant.com/ Best Cocktails: Winner: Lockwood Distilling Co | https://lockwooddistilling.com Best Coffeehouse: Winner: Staycation Coffee | http://www.staycationtx.com Best Cookies: Winner: Tiff’s Treats | www.cookiedelivery.comz Best Cupcakes: Winner: Nothing Bundt Cakes | http://www.nothingbundtcakes.com Best Deli: Winner: Bella Flan | http://bellaflan.com Best Desserts: Winner: Sweet Firefly | http://www.sweetfirefly.com Best Diner: Winner: House Cafe Best Distillery: Winner: Lockwood Distilling Co. | https://lockwooddistilling.com Best Dive Bar: Winner: Tavern on Main Street | http://tavernonmainstreet.com Best Donuts: Winner: Campbell Donuts | https://www.facebook.com/campbelldonuts/ Best Fast Food: Winner: Velvet Taco | http://www.velvettaco.com Best Fine Dining Restaurant: Winner: The Fifth | https://www.thefifthtx.com Best Food Truck: Winner: Tongue In Cheek Ice Cream | http://www.tongueincheekicecream.com Best French Fries: Winner: Shady’s | https://www.shadysburgers.com Best Fried Chicken: Winner: Golden Chick | https://goldenchick.com Best Greek Restaurant: Winner: Little Greek | http://littlegreekfreshgrill.com Best Grocery Store: Winner: Sprouts Farmers Market | http://sprouts.com Best Hamburger: Winner: Del’s Charcoal Burgers | http://www.delsburgers.com Best Happy Hour: Winner: Lockwood Distilling Co. | https://lockwooddistilling.com Best Hidden Gem: Winner: Bella Flan | http://bellaflan.com Best Ice Cream: Winner: Sweet Firefly | http://www.sweetfirefly.com Best Indian Restaurant: Winner: Imperial Biryani & Cafe | http://imperialbiryanicafe.com Best Italian Restaurant: Winner: Partenope | http://partenopedallas.com Best Japanese Restaurant: Winner: Maru Ramen | http://www.maruramen.com Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant: Winner: Hat Creek Burger Co. | http://hatcreekburgers.com Best Latin Restaurant and Margarita: Winner: Sueño | http://www.suenomextex.com Best Mexican Restaurant: Winner: Dos Arroyos Comida Casera | http://www.dosarroyoscomidacasera.com Best Middle Eastern Restaurant: Winner: Afrah Restaurant | http://www.afrah.com Best New Restaurant: Winner: Partenope | http://partenopedallas.com Best Patio: Winner: Shady’s | https://www.shadysburgers.com Best Pizza: Winner: Industrial Pizza | http://www.industrialpizzaandbrew.com Best Romantic Restaurant: Winner: The Fifth | https://www.thefifthtx.com Best Sandwich: Winner: The Great Outdoors Sub Shop | http://greatoutdoorsubs.com Best Seafood Restaurant: Winner: Anaya’s | http://richardson.anayaseafood.com Best Soul Food: Winner: Trucker Cafe | http://truckers-cafe.weeblyte.com Best Specialty Market: Winner: Sara’s Market | http://sarasmediterraneanmarket.com Best Sports Bar: Winner: The Mad Hatter Neighborhood Pub | http://www.themadhattertx.com Best Steakhouse: Winner: Texas | https://www.thesonoftexas.com Best Sushi: Winner: Sushi Sake | http://www.sushisake.info Best Take Out: Winner: Bella Flan | http://bellaflan.com Best Thai/Vietnamese Restaurant: Winner: Sticky Rice – Richardson | http://stickyricetx.com Best Upscale Bar: Winner: The Fifth | https://www.thefifthtx.com Best Vegetarian / Vegan Restaurant: Winner: Nuno’s Tacos & Vegmex Grill | http://order.toasttab.com Best Wine Selection: Winner: The Wine Authority | https://thewineauthorityonline.com/ A huge thank you to all the voters and nominees who showcased the incredible talent and dedication in Richardson’s food and drink industry. Head out and try these fantastic spots for yourself!
Discover the Best of Richardson 2025: Arts & Entertainment
The official results are in! Presented by Richardson Life Magazine and based on the community’s votes in our 2025 ballot, we’re thrilled to announce the winners for the Arts & Entertainment category. Richardson is a city bursting with creativity, from live music venues to captivating art galleries. This year’s event celebrates the places and people that make our city a hub for culture and fun. This directory is your guide to the top-voted spots, recognized for their outstanding contributions to our community’s vibrant cultural scene. You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Art Gallery: Winner: Crow Museum of Asian Art at UTD | https://www.crowmuseum.org Best Cultural Event: Winner: Richardson Symphony Orchestra | http://richardsonsymphony.org Best Event Venue: Winner: Richardson Woman’s Club | http://www.rwctx.org Best Family Entertainment: Winner: Free Play Arcade | https://freeplayrichardson.com/ Best Festival: Winner: Wildflower! Arts and Music Festival Best Live Music Event: Winner: Wildflower! | https://www.fourbulletsbrewery.com Best Fundraising Event: Winner: Network Fork Off Best Live Music Venue: Winner: Four Bullets Brewery | https://www.fourbulletsbrewery.com/ Best Live Theater Group: Winner: Richardson Theatre Center | https://richardsonsymphony.org/ Best Local Band: Winner: The She | http://theshemusic.com Best Movie Theater: Winner: Alamo Drafthouse | https://drafthouse.com/dfw/theater/richardson Best Museum: Winner: Crow Museum of Asian Art | https://www.crowmuseum.org Best Musician: Winner: Brian Erickson Best Outdoor Event: Winner: Cottonwood Art Festival Best Place for Kids’ Birthday: Winner: Sweet Firefly | http://www.sweetfirefly.com Thank you to everyone who participated in the ballot! Your vote helps highlight the fantastic businesses and organizations that make Richardson a wonderful place to live and visit. Be sure to check out these award-winning spots and experience the best that Richardson’s arts and entertainment scene has to offer.
The Benefits of Breaking Bread
[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://richardsonlifemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/DeborahDobbsheadshot.webp[/author_image] [author_info]By Deborah Dobbs, MA[/author_info] [/author] Many years ago, I read a book by Christine Carter, PhD, called Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents. My daughter was five at the time and I instantly incorporated the tips into our lives (they indeed were simple). In her book, Dr. Carter emphasized the value of sitting down as a family to share a meal. Fortunately, this was something my daughter and I already did, probably because I grew up that way. However, I wasn’t aware of the research supporting the mental health benefits of gathering around the table. Since the book’s 2011 publication, additional studies have upheld these conclusions. Studies, Studies, Studies A 2017 study in Family Relations found that families who eat together regularly report stronger emotional bonds, with kids feeling more supported and parents feeling more connected. Even in tough times, a simple group meal can feel like an anchor, reminding us we’re not alone. Per a 2018 Pediatrics study, regular family dinners are linked to lower rates of anxiety and depression in kids because they feel seen and valued. It’s not just families, though. Friends, coworkers, or even strangers at a community supper can feel like a tribe after sharing a spread. A 2020 study in Journal of Community Psychology showed that communal meals reduce feelings of loneliness and boost well-being, especially for older adults or those living alone. Here’s an interesting observation: a 2019 Appetite study found people eat healthier in groups, opting for veggies over fries when others do, too. Happiness, Relationships and Community Eating together signals inclusion. It sparks conversations that deepen relationships. Whether it’s debating the best wood for smoking a brisket or swapping stories at a potluck, these moments build trust and camaraderie. Eating together also builds habits that stick. Children learn manners, gratitude, and even cooking skills by watching adults at the table. For adults, regular group meals reinforce discipline, like sticking to healthier choices or unplugging from screens. Traditions born at the table—Sunday brunches, annual cookouts—become touchstones, giving life rhythm and meaning. Stuck in a Rut? The Brain Craves Novelty. Whether dining in or out, consider trying new recipes or types of foods. Our brains benefit from novelty. When we encounter something new, our brain releases dopamine (a “feel-good” chemical). New experiences also boost our creativity and enhance neuroplasticity, thereby improving memory. Trying new things helps us adapt to change and feel more confident when faced with uncertainty. If you’re going out, consider something engaging (and delicious), like Korean Barbecue or Shabu-Shabu. Go someplace you’ve never been. If you’re staying at home, cook a new recipe. Venture out of your comfort zone. Share the cooking tasks and let the conversation flow. Do What Works In our busy, screen-filled lives, eating together takes effort, but it’s worth it. There were times in my life when schedules were so packed (or I was so exhausted) that my daughter and I ate together in the car. We shared most meals at the table, but I admit that some of my favorite food memories involved eating in the parked car while watching funny cat videos. My daughter’s an adult now, living an hour away, but sometimes we still meet and eat in the car, where we can talk and laugh loudly without disturbing anyone. The point is to do what works for you. Regardless of where you are, every bite shared is a step toward connection, feeding both body and soul.
Ly Tieu: Owner of NOMIS Catering
[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://richardsonlifemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/File-1.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]By Patti Otte[/author_info] [/author] In 1980, a young Vietnamese man, his pregnant wife, and their eight children boarded a boat headed for freedom in the United States. During the journey, the expectant mother delivered a baby girl on the boat. That little baby would wait seven years to meet her father, as he was caught during the journey and sent to prison. That baby girl made it to America with her mom and siblings and began a new life. She is entrepreneur Ly Tieu, owner of NOMIS Catering and a familiar face in Richardson. The Early Years When Tieu’s dad came to the US, he wanted to open a family business. That restaurant, named Quoc Ly Restaurant after Tieu, was a place for her not only to learn the value of hard work but also to discover the power of community. Tieu recalls, “The mayor would stop by a lot, teachers from our school would come in for lunch, and our friends would come in to try our food.” She loved making people happy by serving them her parents’ culinary creations. Tieu credits her work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit to her parents. As a young woman, Tieu was a stay-at-home mother to her four children and had a part-time position at Prestonwood Baptist Church as a Special Needs teacher. For five years, Tieu juggled motherhood, teaching, and her work as the manager of The Drawing Board, her brother Tim’s co-working office space in Richardson. But life took an unexpected turn for Tieu and her family. A Business Built from Heartache Almost six years ago, Tieu suffered a devastating loss when her oldest son, Simon, was tragically killed in a car accident. After Tieu lost Simon, she stopped making special meals, opting instead for simple dinners with her three children. However, she hosted a big party every year on Simon’s birthday and on his goodbye anniversary. She’d invite all his closest friends and family and serve food buffet style. Thankfully, that tradition planted a seed in her mind, and one day, it just clicked. She thought to herself, “Start your own catering business! Name it after Simon!” NOMIS Catering She is now the proud owner of NOMIS Catering. The name is an homage to Simon: it’s his name spelled backwards and pronounced “no-miss.” NOMIS Catering specializes in charcuterie boards: themed charcuterie boxes, charcuterie trays, and grazing tables. Tieu makes everything fresh and uses top-quality ingredients. States Tieu, “I pour my heart and soul into my work. There’s so much satisfaction in seeing my customers enjoy my food down to the last crumb. I appreciate all the feedback that I get and I thank Simon every time an order is fulfilled.” Life Beyond Catering While Tieu says she will never stop missing Simon, she has three other children, Sari, Ty, and Evi, who, she says, are the reasons she wakes up each morning. She and her children have lived in Richardson for the past six years. Tieu credits her ability to survive both the grief journey and life as a single mother to the proximity and unwavering support of her extended family. Tieu has also enthusiastically immersed herself in the Richardson community. She was in Leadership Richardson’s Class 38. States Tieu, “It was an amazing experience for me. It allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and has helped me build up my confidence and leadership skills. I met the greatest people and learned so many things about the city of Richardson.” She also recently joined the Citizens Fire Academy and hopes to one day participate in the Citizens Police Academy. For more information or to place an order, email nomis.catering@gmail.com or call 469-630-5793. Follow Tieu’s business on Instagram @nomis_catering.