Denton Live - Discover Denton

DENTONLIVE
CELEBRATING ORIGINAL INDEPENDENCE IN NORTH TEXAS
2015 VISITOR GUIDE
ways to celebrate
your independent
spirit in Denton
plus
Our Five Favorite Burgers!
[and microbrews to match]
Plan your next getaway at:
discoverdenton.com
GET
CONNECTED
Calling all entrepreneurs,
professionals and
community leaders.
Come see up-to-the-minute science at work,
connect with our extensive network and
take part in thought-provoking seminars
that will help you succeed.
DISCOVERY PARK
INNOVATION GREENHOUSE
OFFICE OF SUSTAINABILITY
Interactive STEM research,
collaboration and training among
public and private partners
supporting technology-based
economic development
• Incubator
• Resource for startups to
journey from concept to
commercialization
• Zero Energy Lab tours
A virtual co-working space that
takes ideas from “classrooms
to boardrooms”, leveraging
existing university resources
while building new partnerships
with businesses, nonprofits and
government agencies
• Data and app hackathons
• Startup weekends, Innovation Lab, VentureSpur
acceleration program
• Speaker Network
• Global Innovation Summit
A national leader in collegiate
sustainability committed to
green standards, maximizing
efficiency and becoming a powerful agent of change
• Consulting for businesses,
cities and schools
• Professional development
certificate through the
Sustainability Leadership
Program
• Networking events
• Sustainable Communities
Initiative
• Sustainability tours
discoverypark.unt.edu
innovation.unt.edu
sustainable.unt.edu
MURPHY CENTER FOR
ENTREPRENEURSHIP @ THE
UNT COLLEGE OF BUSINESS
Identifies entrepreneurial
champions on and off campus
and stimulates initiatives
through community engagement
• Entrepreneurs Boot Camp
(create a business plan in 5
weeks)
• Investment panels and
workshops
• BDO, USA LLP Leadership
Luncheon
• Denton Ventures TV show
www.murphycenter.unt.edu
—Business Leadership Building
Find more information and events:
unt.edu/getconnected
AA/EOE/ADA © 2014 UNT
take a
look inside!
[Discover Denton]
Go #Dentoning
5
Punch Up Your Playlist
6
Unearth Your Inner Dentonite
8
Find Brunch Money Downtown
14
Start A Tab
15
10
Fries with that?
A juicy roundup of Denton’s best burgers
PLUS: Denton gets crafty with its brews
Meet Mr. Ed
20
Stroll Down Memory Lane
21
Dust Off Your Stetson
22
Get Scared Silly
29
Brighten Your Holidays!
34
33
Find your Seryn-ity
They may have stellar ambitions, but their
uniquely Denton sound is down to earth.
Save t h
e D at e !
D e n t on
’s mustdo
list on
p. 2 7 !
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8 | Get the Local Look
We show your inner fashionista where to find Denton style.
2
D E N T O N
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take a
look inside!
C at c h a
j
session am
on t h e
h istoric
D e n t on
s qu a re
every W
ed.
at 7 p.m
,!
» Your
adventure starts here...
Whether you fancy a feast or want to shop ‘till you drop, we help
you find Denton’s unique flair every week of the year!
17 | Love and Lights
Riding into town on your tandem bike? These Denton love birds tell
you the best places to visit when you’re dining for two.
19 | Blast From the Past
Find out why car lovers, foodies and collectors cruise through town
each year for Denton’s unique drive down memory lane.
21 | Horsin’ Around Town
Trot through Horse Country and meet local ranchers. Hold your
horses, you won’t get held up by Jesse James on this tour, but you’ll
dine like you’re in the Old West.
Departments
4
5
6
8
27
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Welcome to Denton
#Dentoning
The Denton Sound
Uniquely Denton
Save the Date
Stay and Play
23 | Kiddos and Corn Dogs
Ever wonder what mutton bustin’ is? Two words: sheep smackdown.
Plus, fun for tater tots large and small.
D E N T O N
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n
o
t
n
e
D
o
t
e
m
o
Welc
Denton. Original. Independent.
Mull it over for a minute. Look
at the image. Think about the
words. What does it mean? What
is it saying?
This is our brand. It conveys
in a single image the essence of
this place: Denton, Texas. Understanding our brand is the first step
to understanding our vibe. And
tuning into our vibe is the key to
unlocking your own uniquely-customized, Denton-centric adventure.
The word original is a broad
application. It’s more a description
of spirit than physical attribute,
though the spirit is manifested
in the physical fabric of our city.
The creative energy fueled by
our universities, arts community,
music industry, small business
community, the North Texas Horse
DENTONLIVE
PUBLISHER
4
Country – it drives originality.
Another example of our originality
is our vibrant downtown square.
It’s the real thing, no faux about it.
We hold fast to our history while
progressively moving ahead. We
hold originality in high regard.
Independent is more of the same
spirit and springs from the same
attributes as original. Consider
our burgeoning music scene, for
instance. Denton is known around
the world for the music movement
that’s been organically evolving
here for many years. Interestingly,
though, there is not a specific
“Denton sound” that anyone can
identify in a word. That is the
result of original and independent.
The sound is a combination of
individual sounds where writers,
musicians, poets and venues have
Dorothy Bland
Dean, Frank W. and Sue Mayborn School of Journalism
Director, Frank W. Mayborn Graduate Institute of Journalism
University of North Texas
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Noah Bunn
DESIGN DIRECTOR
Wendy Moore
PHOTOGRAPHY CONSULTANT Junebug Clark
EMAILdentonlive@gmail.com
Students in the Frank W. and Sue Mayborn
School of Journalism and Frank W. Mayborn
Graduate Institute of Journalism produce
Denton Live: Zixian Chen, Katherine Coleman,
Lauren Frock, Drew Gaines, Morgan Gentry,
Tony Gutiérrez, Alice Hale, Mollie Jamison, John
Lugo, Shelbi Mascheri, Megan Middleton, Jessica Mitchel, Porschia Paxton, Maria Sandoval,
D E N T O N
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Denton Convention & Visitors Bureau
A division of the
Denton Chamber of Commerce
414 Parkway | Denton, TX 76201
(940) 382-7895 | (888) 381-1818
discoverdenton.com
PRESIDENT, DENTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Chuck Carpenter
VICE PRESIDENT, DENTON CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Kim Phillips
their own messages, rhythms,
tunes and atmospheres. Listeners
get the entire breadth, as varied
or not as they choose. And again,
in the surrounding horse country,
we have the most diverse equine
population and disciplines in one
area than anywhere else on Planet
Earth. That’s independent, and it
results in a lively, energetic culture.
The weathered appearance of the
brand is quite intentional. Think
about your favorite pair of jeans.
They’re likely a bit worn-looking,
because they are your favorite.
They fit you perfectly, comfortably.
And they wouldn’t fit anyone else in
just the same way. Our brand says
that’s how Denton fits too.
Denton is a place where people
come to pursue their passions,
and we’ve shared their dreams and
journeys for more than 150 years.
You’ll see it in our year-round
festivals, museums, galleries and
shops. You’ll taste it in the delectable art of local chefs and unique
dining. You’ll feel it in our vibe.
Welcome to Denton. Now get
ready for something different, an
experience no other has had before,
because this one is yours: Original.
Independent.
Kim Phillips
Vice President
Denton Convention
& Visitors Bureau
Denton Live is published by the Frank W. Mayborn
Graduate Institute of Journalism at the University
of North Texas in partnership with the Denton
Convention & Visitors Bureau. © 2014 by Mayborn •
1155 Union Circle, #311460, Denton, TX 76203-5017
• (940) 565-4564. All rights reserved. Comments on
stories go to UNT’s Mayborn Schoolwhile distribution
queries go to the Denton CVB. Printed by Eagle &
Wheeler, Denton, Texas
are you
#dentoning?
Join the
Dentoning craze
by using the
#dentoning
hashtag on
Instragram,
Twitter and
Facebook.
We’ll publish
our favorites in
the next issue
of Denton Live
and you’ll win a
cool #dentoning
T-shirt.
A BREW ON THE SQUARE It doesn’t have to be 5:00 for you to enjoy a cold drink on this porch.
Photo by @besely, The Beer Drinker’s Society
YOU READ OUR MIND @tesamorin captures what makes
Denton wonderful—music, food and endless fun.
GO MEAN GREEN! @johntinglaw had a front-row view of the Mean
Green’s Heart of Dallas Bowl victory.
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#dentonradio
tune in.
Snarky Puppy
This Grammy-award winning combo
originated in Denton and carries the city’s
unique spirit everywhere they go. Make
your first listen “Something,” Featuring
Lalah Hathaway. It’s a fantastic fusion of
jazz, funk and world sounds. Snarky Puppy
is the perfect accompaniment to a social
evening with good friends and good wine,
and seeing them perform live is pure magic.
Criminal Birds
This album’s smooth vocals melt like butter
into the catchy, complex rhythmic scheme
as the song “Chill Out” builds up into the
bridge. An energetic crescendo pulls you
over to the next section before dropping
you back into the airy vibes of the album.
The strong vocals are so smooth they’re
almost criminal.
Zach Balch
Bluesy guitar and dreamy piano riffs
set the scene for Zach Balch’s melodic
confessions on his 2011 record, Verses. You’ll
discover an enchanting array of gentle
guitar strumming, energetic rhythms
and everything in between, as each track
unfolds stories of heartache, whispered
promises and new beginnings. Strong
contrast between the first and last tracks
reveal Balch’s dynamic voice.
The Birds of Night
Each piece of the lazy, laid-back vocals sung
by this funky band set the scene for a ‘60s
throwback in “Love You On The Weekend”
from their first album, Snaps. Crispy guitar
riffs fill the spaces between each chunk of
energetic sound in “Chew,” from their most
recent album release, We’re a Family Now.
This is Sunday brunch music, complete with
enchanting vocals and a beat that revitalizes the spirit of rock n’ roll.
The Boombachs
A fusion of jazz and hip-hop is the secret
behind this array of urban sounds. Lyrics
from Post-Apocalyptic Stress Syndrome
carry you through each of the album’s low
beats. A head bob and a grin at the clever
combination of captivating words and heavy
themes go hand-in-hand while listening to
“Will They be Happy” and “Losing Site.”
Daniel Markham
“New Bloods” from Ruined My Life possesses
chord progressions and catchy rhythms
that make you think California surf rock,
but their pausing vocals fuse with each
beat to bring in a subtle element of punk.
Slower songs like “I Came Here to Rock
and Roll” and “Killers will Creep” show
a clever contrast between hard and soft
rock elements to create recurring musical
themes across the album.
—Fey Sandoval & Lauren Frock
DentonRadio.com is an online, 24/7 radio station devoted
to Denton’s one-of-a-kind sound, playing original songs by
Denton musicians—and nothing else.
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That’s “General” to you.
After a 10-year hiatus, the group
is spreading the Denton gospel.
The Baptist Generals (L to R)
Peter Salisbury, Chris Flemmons,
Paul Slavens, Ryan Williams,
Jeff Ryan and Jason Reimer
Best known for their timeless 2003 release, No
Silver/No Gold, Baptist Generals lured their fans
back after a decade-long hiatus with the folksy,
raw sounds of Jackleg Devotional to the Heart.
The local group is comprised of Chris
Flemmons, Ryan Williams, Paul Slavens, Jeff Ryan,
Peter Salisbury and Jason Reimer—but their studio
recordings often feature an all-star roster of North
Texas musicians.
Lead-singer Chris Flemmons’ versatile,
harmonic voice complements the varied melodies
of the group’s long-awaited, 12-track album. It’s
lyrically safe. But Chris’s distinctive voice and
guitar playing style blend perfectly with his
poetic lyrics,”
However, the Generals do more than play
psychedelic tunes around town.
Flemmons is also the creative genius behind
the annual 35 Denton music festival. When he’s
not feeling especially “evangelical,” Williams jams
with the bluegrass group Box Car Bandits and the
metal band Bludded Head. Salisbury broadcasts his
own AM radio station, Real Waves 1670 AM, from
home. Slavens teaches piano lessons and conducts
recitals at Texas Woman’s University, records
voice-overs and hosts his own radio show on KXT
91.7. Reimer is only a part-time Dentonite, but you
can frequently catch him at the legendary Texas
Theatre in Oak Cliff.
—Morgan Gentry
Twitter:
@baptistgenerals
Facebook:
Baptist Generals
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Get the Look:
Uniquely Denton
Produced by Porschia Paxton | Photos by Gloria Chen | Styling by Sarah Nwiba
Let’s face it. Everyone praises their own
town or city as being the “best.” But when
Denton lays claim to this honor—whether
in music, food or fashion—it proudly
backs up what it boasts. Fashionistas (and
those just looking for a fresh look) will
appreciate the stylish boutiques a savvy
shopper will find dotting downtown
Denton. Browsing these shops for
quirky finds makes for a fun day full of
“Dentoning” and guarantees you’ll experience things, places, people and fashion
that is undeniably exclusive to this city.
The fashion scene here is one-of-a-kind,
where the “local look” is influenced by
western wear and Denton’s uniquely
independent spirit. Explore these can’tmiss shops and see for yourself!
Mix and match these stylishly
fabulous finds for endless
Denton fashion possibilities.
The kaleidoscopic bracelets and watches (left) make any outfit
pop and the beautiful statement ring is perfect hand candy
for any occasion. Both from la di da.
Circa 77 Vintage Shop
225 W. Oak St.
This vintage store doesn’t disappoint.
Whether you’re looking for an outfit
that no one else will have or you just
want to add some cool vintage pieces
to your closet, you’re bound to fall
in love with these ‘oldie but goodie’
fashion trends.
A quirky little coin purse
may be enough to make
you an honorary Dentonite!
This, along with many
more of the same cutesy
crafts, can be found at
Sleeping Lizzards.
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la di da/ Shoe Fly
114 N. Locust St.
This boutique sells cute, fashionable
attire for all ages and every situation
along with colorful, cool jewelry. The
ever-casual Toms shoes are sold at the
connecting Shoe Fly store. The looks
here are always on trend­—but with a
Denton twist.
Model photographed
at Barefoot Apparel,
207 N. Elm
Sleeping Lizzards
424 N. Elm St.
As soon as you step inside the fun-filled
jewelry and craft shop you’ll feel like
you’ve been teleported into a wonderland of accessories and creative gifts.
This store is packed wall-to-wall with
crazy-cool finds that make for the best,
and most thoughtful presents to give to
friends and family.
The DIME Store
510 S. Locust St.
Home to quintessentially Denton
handmade goods from more than
40 makers in the surrounding area,
local artists share their creations in
one place to create a true Denton
experience. Don’t miss special events
such as the DIME Handmade Harvest
in November.
A hip take on the stereotypical “western”
look is a must in Denton. Accessories like
this contemporary black cowboy hat with
silver shell detailing can be found at the
Downtown Mini Mall I for less than $20.
The brown textured vest is available at la
di da ($103). Yellow-collared, ‘60s-era top
($28), black mid-length ‘90s leather skirt
($26), white ‘80s cowboy boots ($45), and
brown suede ‘70s purse/clutch ($24) all
available at Circa 77.
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Big,Bad
Burgers!
Lively vibes and bold tastes make these burger joints don’t-miss
destinations in Denton. From cowboy classic to outright wacky,
our favorite burgers are well worth a bite—or two.
Story and Photographs by Alice Hale
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Th e Big
G ril le d As s
Ch e e s e
D ouble
Bu rger
at Ro o
ste
Road h o r’s
u s e.
LSA Burger Co.
113 W. Hickory St., Denton, TX
The shops of Denton square have brightened up the
city for more than a century, but there is a new gem
in town that is sure to catch your eye, as well as your
ears, nose and taste buds’ attention.
Everything, from the music and artwork to the
names of each menu item, is themed or tied to a Texas
artist, revealing a genuine Lone Star attitude, the
restaurant’s namesake.
Just try and walk into LSA and not be intrigued by
the atmosphere. Between a Texas-sized (and shaped!)
instrument collage above the bar, a Last Supper
spoof depicting legendary Texas music artists and an
open-air rooftop bar with a panoramic view of the
Denton square, all of your senses will be in overdrive
as you enjoy some of Denton’s best burgers.
The newest addition to the Denton square, LSA
opened in 2013 after business partners Jon Christopher
Davis and John “Sparky” Pearson decided to combine
their love for music, burgers, beer and Texas into a
one-of-a-kind restaurant. “Sparky’s big thing is just
having pride in Texas and where you’re from and
representing where you come from with Lone Star
Attitude,” General Manager Andie Smirl says.
From the “Attitude” burger topped with brisket and
their signature “Mama’s chow chow”—grilled onions,
red and green peppers—to their “Our Buddy” burger
on Texas toast with Swiss cheese and grilled onions,
LSA pleases even the most adventurous foodies.
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Here’s
the
beef.
These burgers
channel Denton’s
unique spirit—and
irresistable flavors.
[The Quick List]
1. LSA’s burgers come
smothered in a variety
of toppings—from
brisket to Frank’s
RedHot Sauce. But its
got more than one trick
up its sleeve: think crab
cake–topped salads!
2. You’ll get your fill at
Rooster’s Roadhouse,
where the food (espescially the burgers) give
new meaning to “bigger
in Texas”.
3. Stepping into Frosty
Drive N feels like a
retro ‘50s diner, and
for good reason. The
diner hasn’t changed
its décor, let alone
most of its menu items,
since it opened in 1954.
Its burgers and floats
stand the test of time.
4. Juicy burger. Classic
toppings. Sourdough
bun. Cartwright’s
Ranch House satisfies
the discerning traditionalists among us.
5. Feeling adventurous?
Burger Time Machine
will take you on one
incredible journey
with toppings like
peanut butter or
Korean BBQ sauce!
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LSA Burger
Frosty Drive N
Rooster’s Roadhouse
Frosty Drive N
113 Industrial St., Denton, TX
1002 Fort Worth Dr., Denton, TX
This bright, quirky restaurant situated
a couple blocks off the square was
opened in 2009 by “three local boys,” as
the story goes on the very front of its
menu. Allen Pierce, Morgan Hull and
Johnny Law decided to partner with
one another and offer Denton a fun,
fresh and tasty selection of food.
After taking in the amazement of
the wide selection of crazy concoctions
on the menu, your eyes will wander
for the rest of your visit to all of the
collectibles adorning the walls and
ceilings. A portrait of Elvis hangs next
to a swordfish above the bar. Baseball
bats, pool cues and fishing rods make
up the handles for the different beers
of tap, but the real star of the show
is the Big Ass Grilled Cheese Double
Burger—a double patty burger with all
your favorite burger toppings stuffed
between two grilled cheese sandwiches
that has to be served with a knife
piercing through it to offer a little
more stability.
For a true trip back in time, step
into Frosty Drive N, a diner right off
Interstate 35E and Fort Worth Drive,
which has been around since current
owner Randy Webb’s dad, Jack, first
opened it up in 1954.
The décor and menu have remained
relatively the same—only a few add-ons
here and there, but the burgers and
root beer floats remain popular draws.
It is hard to tell when you order a
burger that there are actually two
quarter-sized patties on each bun. They
are thin, but Webb says that is what
gives the burger that great flavor.
“I had a friend ask me, ‘Randy, what
makes a Frosty’s hamburger so good?’”
Webb says. “When I asked him if he
thought a big patty made a burger good
he replied, ‘Oh yeah, a hamburger isn’t
a hamburger unless it’s big.’”
But Webb knows the secret: Stacking
patties helps build a burger with the
flavor turned up to 11.
Cartwright’s Ranch House
Burger Time Machine
Cartwright’s Ranch House
Burger Time Machine
111 N Elm St, Denton, TX
301 W University Dr., Denton, TX
One of the thicker patties you’ll find
on a Denton burger is at Cartwright’s
Ranch House on the square. There
are four choices for burgers—either
the Dad’s “sizzle” burger or its cheesy
counterpart, the “chizzle,” the Black and
Bleu or the Ol’ Hickory. But the simple
toppings and sourdough buns make
them very stacked choices.
Stepping into Cartwright’s is like
stepping into a small-town diner.
Homey, with wood panels half way up
the walls, longhorn skulls adorning
the other half, brown floral textured
tablecloths and smiles on every server’s
face, this is the perfect place to get a
big burger without any fuss.
If you’re not in the mood for a
burger, Cartwright’s has plenty of
home-style choices (We love meatloaf
Mondays and fried catfish Fridays.)
Peanut butter and bacon. Egg and
jam. Teriyaki sauce and pineapple. All
strange combinations till you put them
on a burger.
At Burger Time Machine, these are
only a few of the numerous toppings
you can try on your burger. Feel
free to ask to mix its unique burger
concoctions with one another. Chances
are the manager already tried that
combination on his lunch break and
can tell you if it’s worth doing or not.
“I was in high school in the ‘80s,”
owner Na says. “So many places are
trying to go higher up in style, but I
want to be able to remember the taste.”
She has certainly created an
atmosphere where adolescent favorites
such as The Terminator and Wizard of
Oz come to life. Movie posters hang all
over the walls from different eras and
a pool table sits next to a few classic
arcade games such as Ms. Pacman.
»
Would you like a beer with that burger?
Just flip the page!
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A burger’s best friend.
Little d joins the macro world of microbrews.
What happens when you combine two UNT
graduates—one an entrepreneur with a master’s in
strategic management and another a history buff with
a bachelor of arts in radio, television, video and film?
Not much. But when you add their love for craft beer,
an old keg, two Igloo coolers, a pair of beat-up tables
and a turkey fryer to the mix, you wind up with Yianni
Arestis and Bobby Mullins, co-founders of Denton’s
Armadillo Ale Works.
The pair, friends for more than 10 years, met on their
way to a concert in Dallas’ Deep Ellum neighborhood.
Before long, their craft-brewing adventure was off and
running—one 10-gallon batch at a time.
Yianni, the CEO, always wanted to start his own
business. And Bobby, CBO (chief brewing officer),
realized after a job at Saint Arnold Brewing Company
in Houston that bringing his love of beer and Denton
together would be a great combination.
Now the two run the first—and only—craft brewery
in Denton, Their aim is ambitious: Do for Denton what
Shiner Bock did for Shiner.
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“The motto of Denton is ‘Original. Independent.’ and
the things that we like, like the close-knit community,
that’s something that Denton really exemplifies,” Yianni
said. “What we want our brand to represent is really
what Denton represents for us.”
The partners entered the UNT Murphy Center
for Entrepreneurship’s 2010 New Venture Creation
Contest and won third place. Of course, they blew their
cash prize on beer—funding promotional events and
ever-important test batches of their brew.
The initial plan was to start a nanobrewery with
small batches to have product available in Denton bars.
That changed when the owners of Deep Ellum Brewing
Company met them at a beer festival and liked what
they were doing in Denton. In 2012, they offered to help
get Armadillo off the ground in return for a cut of the
profits. Working with Deep Ellum, Armadillo brews 60
barrels of beer on any day. Less than two years after
placing in the entrepreneurship competition, you can
find their beer at more than 150 retailers throughout
North Texas, Austin and Houston. —Adam Schrader
Brunch Money
If you’ve never had a beer that fits with
your Sunday brunch, get your brunch
on with Brunch Money, a stout-inspired
golden ale. Perfect for the lightweights
out there, this limited-edition, seasonal
brew is deceivingly strong with
delicious flavor at 10 percent alcohol
by volume (ABV). Drink it with some
chicken and waffles from local food
truck The Waffle Wagon. (It pairs so well
that Armadillo Ale Works had them on
hand for the brew’s launch party at Oak
Street Draft House and Cocktail Parlor!)
In order to get stout-like flavors into
this brunch-friendly beer beer without
adding dark coloring, AAW used cacao
nibs, vanilla and beans from Bookish
Coffee Roasters in Denton.
Greenbelt Farmhouse Ale
Unlike any ale you’ve ever had, at
5.2 percent ABV this “American-Belgian-Weizen hybrid” is a light-golden
brew and the perfect match for an
evening relaxing on the porch of a
local pub. Take a six-pack to your next
pool party and wash down a delicious
burger with this easy-drinking
unfiltered wheat beer full of flavors
of honey, citrus and coriander. They
could filter the haze out but “that would
take away from the yeast hanging
around adding great citrusy and spicy
flavors to the beer.” You don’t get all
that from the name and might expect
a straightforward Saison. It’s more of a
Hefeweizen with flavor and funk. If you
are out and it’s hot, Greenbelt is better
than the Quakertown—especially if you
don’t drink a lot of blondes.
Quakertown Stout
Named for the Quakertown settlement
in Denton, it’s a blend of dark roasted
malts, oats and maple syrup with 9.22
percent ABV. This toasty stout is the
perfect winter brew but works great
in summer when matched with BBQ,
bacon or steak. This dark stout tastes
of coffee, chocolate, nuts and oats, and
Armadillo hops it “with some bitter
Columbus hops to help balance out all
the malty sweetness.” Quakertown is
available on draught and in 22 ounce
bottles around Denton.
Where everybody knows
your name (or at least has
a good drink special).
Smiling college students, visitors,
long-time Dentonites and musicians
fill the Denton scene. No matter the
type of nightlife fun you aim for, the
welcoming lights and atmosphere of
restaurants, bars and venues open their
doors to all. The Austin St. Food Truck
Park is the endpoint of many hungry
adventurers looking for the best local
food within walking distance of Denton
bars. The vibe of local musicians
strumming away to eclectic indie
creations flows out from venues in the
surrounding areas,
The largest selection of beers to
choose from can be found at East Side
and Oak St. Drafthouse and Cocktail
Parlor. East Side (117 E. Oak St.) touts its
89 beers on tap (about 60 Texas beers)
to be enjoyed on its patio facing the
food truck park. Oak St. Drafthouse
(308 E. Oak St.) offers more than 70
draught beers (about 35 Texas beers) in
its homely environment—appropriately
established in the third oldest house in
Denton at 128 years old—with no loud
music or televisions. It offers board
games, cards and a giant backyard.
On the other spectrum of volume,
The Labb (218 W. Oak St.) is the place
to go for a crowd to root (or yell) with
while watching the big game. Drink
specials on nights of Dallas Mavericks,
Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Stars and Texas
Rangers games are tough to beat. If
your eyes aren’t set on the televisions,
there are also pool tables, dart boards
and occasional live music.
Other top-notch bars that deliver
great tunes for audiences from both
ends of the musical spectrum are
Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studios (409
E. Sycamore St.) and Dan’s Silver Leaf
(103 Industrial St.). Dallas-Fort Worth
music icons such as Paul Slavens and
Denton-native band Seryn tend to
head to these venues. Bands of various
genres find these places to be great
What’s your passion?
East Side Social Club: Get crafty
and select from nearly 90 brews.
Oak St. Drafthouse and Cocktail
Parlor: The calm mood sets the
scene for a relaxing night.
The Labb: Throw back a beer and
pump your fist to the big game.
Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studios:
Soak up local music scene—along
with another round!
Dan’s Silver Leaf: Find out why
this listening room is legendary.
Cool Beans Bar and Grill: Beer and
burgers. Need we say more?
Riprock’s Bar and Grill: Man’s best
friend always welcome!
opportunities to get their music out
and have fun, while listeners see them
as the best spots for music and drinks.
Cool Beans Bar and Grill (1210 W.
Hickory St.) continually satisfies with
its delicious and perfectly seasoned
burgers you wouldn’t expect from a
bar. The bar also has Tuesday trivia
nights and posts daily specials via
social media for all to enjoy inside or
out on the patio and roof area.
Riprock’s Bar and Grill (1211 W.
Hickory St.) has an open patio in front
of the bar, which inclines its customers
to bring their dogs for a day out. With
a menu ranging from pulled pork sandwiches to chicken tenders, Riprock’s
makes for a great introduction to the
night life of Denton for anyone looking
for a fun night on the town.
—John Lugo
D E N T O N
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15
Tyler knew there was only one perfe
ct place to pop the
question—under the glistening light
s on the Denton square.
16
D E N T O N
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Love is in the air.
From first date to bended knee, this couple’s courtship was pure Denton.
by Mollie Jamison
He hates breakfast, and she won’t go near a
sandwich. He craves white pizza. She likes it old school.
He hates beer. She prefers a hard cider. But they both
love Denton—and each other.
Living in a city that caters to quirky tastes of all
sorts, Amanda Maraist and Tyler Owens spent the
last four years getting to know each other amidst the
colors and flavors of the Denton square. It’s where they
fell in love, where they got engaged and where they’ll
tie the knot.
“Being in such a vibrant community by ourselves
has helped us create our life together and what we
want our life to be,” Amanda said. “We love this city. We
don’t want to leave.”
Their courtship started in 11th grade on the last day
of school and has continued to blossom while living in
Denton.
“We had an art class together,” she said. “I always
thought he was cute, even though he dressed weird. On
our first date he wore a T-shirt with a hood attached. I
was like, ‘Ugh, what have I gotten myself into?”
Five anniversaries—and three Third Eye Blind
concerts later—they’ll soon be Mr. and Mrs. Owens.
We put Amanda and Tyler to the test
to see how well they really know
each other. Along the way they told
us where to find the most romantic
places in town—from where they
had their first date to where they’ll
say “I do.”
What’s the ideal first date in Denton?
Something simple or stylish? Tyler
says if he had just met Amanda he’d
take her for a casual stroll through the
new food truck park on Austin Street,
just off the square. Here you can find
everything from cucumber lemonade
($3) and pork banh mi ($7) at The Pickled
Carrot to peanut butter, bacon and
banana waffles ($5) at The Waffle Wagon.
But if you’re a believer in the power of
wining-and-dining, take your special
someone to Hannah’s Off the Square,
at 111 W. Mulbberry St., for a plate of
creamy Gnocchi Florentine ($22) and its
award-winning carrot cake ($7).
What’s the perfect meal to start a
romantic weekend? Amanda says
she treats Tyler to the chicken pot pie
($7) at Chestnut Tree—for breakfast.
If you’re more of a breakfast lover,
head to Loco Café for a short stack
of the Johnny Cakes ($4), made from
cornmeal. If you like your flapjacks
sweet, check out Old West Café for a
taste of their creamy peanut butter
maple syrup.
Would Amanda rather watch the
stars in the sky at the UNT observatory or the ones on stage at Campus
Theatre? Tyler says Amanda would
love to catch the latest musical
D E N T O N
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17
production at Campus Theatre, because
she’s a dancer, and has spent most
of her life on stage. Ticket prices at
Campus Theatre vary from show
to show. For more information, call
the box office at 940-382-1915. If you
like your stars bright and twinkling,
visit the UNT Planetarium to see the
Digistar III projection system that
reproduces the night sky. Tickets
are $9 for adults, $7 for children and
students and $8 for senior citizens. For
more information, call 940-369-8213.
Scavenger hunt leads to love,
lights—and engagement delights.
Mark your
calendars for
the 2014 Denton
Holiday Lighting
Festival this
December.
See page 34 for
more details!
18
D E N T O N
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The day Tyler proposed began with a wild scavenger
hunt around Denton to their favorite places and ended
under the twinkling lights on the courthouse square.
“I knew I wanted to do something big—something
different that people didn’t normally do,” Tyler said.
“She mentioned a long time ago that she wanted to be
proposed to around Christmas time so I had put that in
the back of my mind.”
The day began with a twist: Tyler told Amanda to
take the day off of work because they were going on a
date. Instead, he arranged for her friends to take her for
brunch at The Chestnut Tree on the Square, where the
waitress handed her the first clue of the hunt.
The clue led to another at Tyler’s fraternity house,
and from there she chased more clues at Riprock’s on
Fry Street, the Cinemark movie theater, Kerr Hall and
UNT’s Dance Building, where Amanda had spent a lot of
time as a dance major.
The dance program put together a show for her
called “Amanda through the years.” They performed
all the dances she had ever done or choreographed.
At the end, her favorite dance instructor gave her the
last clue. It sent her to Recycled Books on the square
to meet, who the clue called, her “man of honor.” There
she found her closest friend Adam in the music section.
“While she was in there I was texting Adam the
whole time,” he said. “I was right outside on the square
with all of our family and a bunch of friends that had
been helping throughout the day.”
Tyler had them all form a tunnel with both of their
parents at the end. He waited patiently behind them
on one knee. After a series of high fives, a nervous
Amanda came face-to-face with Tyler. She said “yes!”
Would Tyler rather share a bottle
at Wine2 or stop by Oak Street Draft
House for some craft brews?
Amanda says even though Tyler isn’t
a huge beer guy, he loves the outdoor
atmosphere at Oak Street Draft House.
Visit the third oldest house in Denton
to try one of its 72 beers on draft. For
the more sophisticated palate, visit
Wine2 and choose from more than 130
different types of wine from around
the world. It’s known for its collection
of small production wines.
940-384-9463.
What would be the perfect wedding
venue? Amanda and Tyler agreed they
both wanted an outdoor wedding. The
two will exchange vows at the Locust
Street Inn, a local bed and breakfast.
Their rehearsal dinner will take place
at the Greenhouse restaurant, a local
favorite. Greenhouse: 940-484-1349.
Locust Street Inn: 940-565-6414.
Goin’ to the Chapel...
Planning a wedding in Denton? Visit
discoverdenton.com/weddings for a
list of resources to get you started.
They’ll help you find local vendors
for everything from cake to flowers.
If you’re lucky, you could win the
next Engaged in Denton contest,
which awards one Mr. and Mrs.
with $2,500 toward their big day.
Check out the Discover Denton blog
at discoverdenton.com/blog to read
about this year’s contest winners.
Vintage Vroom
Arts, Antiques & Autos Extravaganza offers perfect chance
to explore Denton with day of nostalgic activities.
All roads lead to Denton each September—at
least when you’re behind the wheel of a ’69 Chevy
ragtop. This year, at the Sept. 13 event, you’ll see
vintage autos, muscle cars and unique customs at
the Arts, Antiques & Autos Extravaganza.
Thousands come downtown each year to check
out the cars, listen to live music, shop for antiques
and eat good food. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. the
car show showcases up to 200 paricipants who
compete for numerous awards including Best
of Show, specialty awards and peoples’ choice.
The people of Denton love to celebrate the city’s
history, unique local businesses and show off their
creativity. Spend the day in town for an experience
special to Denton.
This year six new themed awards will be
available for the public to vote on, including Best
“Family Truckster,” Best “Mid-Life Crisis Car,”
“Diamond in the Rough” and more. Local artists
will contribute by creating the custom-made
unique awards.
10:00 a.m. Drive Downtown
Before you land on the square, make a quick stop
at the Denton Community Market, located an easy
walk from the day’s main attraction. Find your
parking spot for the day and browse through
the rows of booths of locally grown fruits and
vegetables, handmade crafts and local products.
The market is at the Historical Park of Denton
County at the intersection of Carroll Boulevard
and Mulberry Street.
10:45 a.m. Put the pedal to the metal
At the free car show on the courthouse square
you can feast your eyes on the rows of glistening
hot rods, classics, trucks, muscle cars, customs
and motorcycles. Take your time strolling
through the streets to look at each car, all to the
soundtrack of live music played on the courthouse
lawn. Gaze at four-wheeled works of art and
admire their reflections in vibrant, candy-colored
paint jobs.
Each vehicle is competing to take home awards
in its unique category including Custom and
Street Rod, but ultimately hoping to take home
the coveted “Best of Show” award.
The Denton
square showcases
hundreds of
vintage cars at
Arts, Antiques &
Autos, plus live
music, antique
appraisals, Chalk
Fest and unique
Denton art.
11:30 a.m. Cash In
Are you sitting on a treasure collection in your
home? Dust off those valuable items and heirlooms
in your attic. For a $5 fee, antique appraisers will
be available to give you information about your
antiques at one of these downtown stores: County
D E N T O N
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19
Seat Antiques (109 W. Hickory St.), W.
Douglas Antiques (119 N. Elm St.) or
Amyx Fine Jewelry (222 W. Hickory St.).
12:00 p.m. Time For Tea
The eclectic dining space of The
Chestnut Tree Teahouse and Bistro
with local art hung on the walls is
the perfect spot for lunch. Family-run
and operating since 1994, it originally
functioned as an antique store in the
front and a tea room in the back. You
might be surprised to see beer taps
sharing the same space as shelves of
tea kettles and cups. Try one of their
Buffalo Burgers or any sandwich on
their popular beer bread. They work
with local farms to source organic
produce whenever possible. 107 W.
Hickory St. 940-591-9475.
1:45 p.m. From Trash to Treasures
So you found out your “treasures”
weren’t worth anything? Don’t worry,
you might find some new treasures
with a unique Denton personality
when you shop the wares of local
artists on the courthouse lawn. Browse
their displays of paintings, crafts and
other works of art. Or take in some
temporary art by peering down at the
sidewalk and admiring the results of
the annual Chalk Fest.
3:15 p.m. A Walk Through History
As you explore the history of
downtown Denton, peek inside the
present-day Thomas Ethan Allen
furniture store, which once housed
the original Texas Normal College (now
known as UNT), then make your way
through the square’s multiplicity of
markers. A full list and guide to the
city’s historic markers can be found
online at dentoncounty.com.
6 p.m. Old-Time Treats
You’ve had a full day, but now you’re
hungry and ready for dinner. Head on
over to Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice
Cream Parlor for a hot bowl of chili
and splurge on a delicious homemade
ice cream sundae for dessert. 117 W.
Hickory St. 940-384-1818.
—Katherine Coleman
20
D E N T O N
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Horsepower, anyone?
Welcome to the biggest, baddest horse
country this side of the Mississippi.
No time for a
full-day tour? Check
out the North Texas
Horse Country selfguided driving tour
instead, Then....
1. Unpack a picnic
lunch at Clear Creek
Natural Heritage
Center—2,900 acres
of hiking trails and
wildflowers.
2. City slickers can
feast at Mom’s on
Main in Aubrey—
featuring scratchmade fried chicken.
3. Wind down as the
sun sets at Hopper
Ranch—barrel racing
is free on Tuesday
nights,
Satisfy your equine curiosity with a guided
excursion to the Denton area’s amazing horse ranches.
North Texas Horse Country Tours offers six professionally-led charter bus tours per year, three in the
spring and three in the fall for $40 per person. That
includes a cowboy-style lunch served from a chuck
wagon, beverages, snacks and behind-the-scenes
access to at least two premier horse ranches.
The tour is appropriate for ages 13 and up, and offers
attendees the chance to get up close and personal with
the horses.
While driving from ranch to ranch, fun and knowledgeable guides share history tidbits and anecdotes
about the horse country. The tour offers insight to
what these majestic creatures mean to the region’s
economy. The tour culminates with a live mounted-shooting
demonstration where a cowboy rides a horse through
an obstacle course and fires his six-shooters at
inflatable balloon targets. It’s a demonstration of skill
and discipline for both horse and rider. Don’t worry,
though, there’s no danger here. The pistols are loaded
with a special round minus a bullet.
Dana Lodge, Denton Convention and Visitors Bureau
director of sales, says the Horse Country Tours is one
of the best attractions in the Denton area.
“It’s certainly a hidden gem,” Lodge said. “A lot of
people don’t know that we have such a large concentration of horse farms right here in the county.”
For more information visit discoverdenton.com or
horsecountrytours.com.
—Aaron Starnes
who really love the flavor, taste and
smell of bacon. It’s easy to leave
Atomic Candy with a full stomach
and empty wallet in Atomic Candy
because of all the brightly colored
sweets. From Sugar Babies, to
Pixie Sticks, with Fireballs and
Jawbreakers galore, Atomic Candy
is sure to bring back the sweet
memories of yesteryear.
Downtown Mini Mall I and II
118 N. Locust St. 940-387-0024
Remember those toys you begged your
parents for as kid? Was it the newest
Cabbage Patch doll or G.I. Joe? If you
were a big toy fanatic, check out the
Downtown Mini Mall. Pack your lunch
in an original Scooby-Doo lunchbox
($12), pick up a first generation Cabbage
Patch doll ($20), and play a round of
Operation ($8). But get there early—
most days they close at 6 p.m.
Sweet Nostalgia
Cars, comics and candy make reliving
your childhood a blast from the past.
ct :
Fu n Fa
a n dy
C
ic
m
Ato
150+
carries
ge s !
bevera
Novelty and
nostalgia in one
place? Atomic
Candy has gag
gifts galore:
rubber chickens,
googly-eyes
and Fez hats for
any humorous
occasion.
What has the head of a horse, octopus tentacles and
candy-coated scorpions? None other than Denton’s old
fashioned store of all things sweet (and a few sour),
Atomic Candy. This petite candy shop, big on nostalgia,
has been open since 2011 and carries candies from the
1960s all the way to present-day delectables.
The moment you walk in, you are greeted with the
sounds of jukebox-style ‘50s and ‘60s doo-wop and rock.
Wooden floors that creak are reminiscent of late-night
steals from the cookie jar. The candy-lined walls add for
a total nostalgic remedy, with favorites like Mike and Ike
and Hot Tamales situated neatly near the Lemon Heads.
Canisters of jellybeans, gummy bears, licorice and
random items such as unicorn, horse and chicken masks
work together to create a very vintage decorum.
Atomic Candy is the type of place that three (or
four) generations can enjoy together and find candy
that may not be sold in neighborhood grocers. For the
more daring taste buds, there are flavored crickets
and a section dedicated to bacon. Yes, bacon. Bacon
flavored gum, mints and even licorice, all for those
More Fun Comics and Games
103 W. Hickory St. 940-387-5893
If you preferred reading about the
newest villain in Metropolis, then just
a few stores away there’s More Fun
Comics and Games. You’ll know the
store by the illuminated Batman signal
above the open sign. More Fun Comics
opened in 2003 and has classic comics
such as Superman, the X-Men series
and newer comics that are a big hit
like The Walking Dead series. The store
doesn’t deal in specialty comics such
as first-edition Spiderman comics but
while you’re there, be sure to ask the
clerk for a peek at their rarest books—
you won’t be disappointed.
Mad World Records
115 W. Hickory St. 940-591-3001
If you were a music junkie and you ran
to the radio to hear the newest song
by your favorite artist, then Mad World
Records is where you need to visit to
get your nostalgic fix. Located next to
Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream,
With selections from John Coltrane and
The Beatles to Nicki Minaj, Mad World
has more than 5,000 records and CDs.
—Jessica Denise Mitchell
D E N T O N
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21
2014 Entertainment Line-Up
Aug. 15 Aug. 16
Aug. 17
22
D E N T O N
Randy Rogers
Jason Eady
Kevin Fowler
Will Hoge
La Banda Yurirense
Cadetes De Linares
L IV E
Aug. 18
Aug. 19
Aug. 20
Aug. 21
Jamie Richards
Uncle Lucius
Cody Johnson
Spivey Crossing
Josh Abbott
Zane Williams
Aug. 22 Aaron Watson
J.B. & the Moonshine Band
Aug. 23 Tracey Lawerence
Find the latest details at ntfair.com!
All’s fair in
mutton busting.
From sheep-riding to slam
dunks, Denton offers loads
of fun for cowboys and
cowgirls of any age.
PLUS: 11 ways to keep the
kiddos happy all year long!
The crowd cheers as 10-year-old Riley Webb, the
youngest roper in the evening’s lineup, rides out
on his one-eyed horse, Captain Jack. He dismounts
and stands next to his steed, his eyes only reaching
the stirrups. He lays out three lassos, and with a
nod, the music starts playing through the arena’s
speakers. Riley picks up the first coiled rope and
the audience starts cheering as his lasso defies
gravity. As he performs, the countless hours spent
practicing to ensure each fluid movement would
play out perfectly seem like mere seconds leading
up to the end. When the final hit arrives, Riley
throws his hat into the wind and ends with a bow.
D E N T O N
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23
The North Texas
Fair and Rodeo
is recognized as
the best event
in Texas by the
Texas Association of Fairs
and Events. With
concerts, games
and attractions,
you’ll be
sure to agree!
The crowd roars as he rides out of
the arena with a grin of accomplishment
stretched across his face.
The young cowboy’s favorite part of
the rodeo is trick roping, but one of many
categories in which he competes at the North
Texas Fair and Rodeo that takes place each
year at Denton’s Fairgrounds.
Did someone say North Texas Fair & Rodeo?
Dust off your Stetson and come out to the
86th annual North Texas Fair and Rodeo
Aug. 15-23, recognized as the best event
in Texas by the Texas Association of Fairs
and Events. The fair’s volunteer-operated,
nonprofit community organization captures
the essence of Western heritage and values
displayed in a way Dentonites and visitors
alike enjoy year after year. The many
youth-oriented opportunities teach the
importance of preserving the agricultural
industry and all revenue generated is
reinvested into programs, scholarships and
facilities that help Denton continue to thrive.
This fair helps many children, like Riley, find
success, Riley has his sights set on becoming
the roping world champion at the annual
National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.
“When I rope I never quit,” Riley says. “My
dad put on roping events every weekend since
I was a baby and I’d be in my crib roping.”
Riley, who first attended the North
Texas Fair and Rodeo as a 2-day-old infant,
developed his dream at a young age.
He started off attending the rodeo as a
mutton buster, also known as a sheep rider,
24
D E N T O N
L I V E
competing against some 100 other children
ages 4-7. It’s as cute as you’re imagining.
“For many children it’s a big accomplishment to ride the sheep, even if they fall off
after a few seconds,” says Glenn Carlton,
executive director of the North Texas Fair
and Rodeo. “It’s a natural progression. You
start them on a sheep and next they’re
riding a calf, then they might ride a steer,
and someday when they’re grown up they
may be a bull rider.”
Riley placed second his first year at age 4
and came back as a volunteer when he was
too old to compete. He has also participated
in barrel racing and roping and has plans to
continue for years to come.
Fun for the Whole Family
In addition to mutton bustin’, children can
participate in the junior rodeo, pageant, pony
rides, petting zoo, livestock show, bubble
runner, train rides and other family-friendly
activities. Although the North Texas Fair and
Rodeo has plenty of activities for children,
this is a full-fledged fair complete with
thrilling rides, good food and live music,
drawing in crowds of all ages. Several new
events will take place at this year’s event,
including TNT Slam Dunk, a trampoline and
basketball-themed show, and Marvelous
Mutts, a stunt show featuring rescued dogs.
“I love having the privilege to do this,”
said Riley. “I like coming out each year and
getting to rope with my friends. It’s fun, and
that’s what it’s all about.” —Lauren Frock
Connect the Dots for Fun!
Every day is Kid Day in Denton. These 11
family-friendly activities are sure to please!
A Creative Art Studio 
Get crafty at A Creative Art
Studio, a gallery and studio
offering classes in oil and
acrylic painting, stained glass,
jewelry, mosaics, watercolor,
drawing, writing workshops and
more. Enroll in a class, host an
art party or simply browse
the gallery for unique
homemade gifts. Classes
start at $15 per person.
Visit acreativeartstudio.com
for more information and class
schedules. 227 W. Oak St. #101.
940-442-1251.
Denton Community Theatre
Sit back and enjoy a musical or
drama at Denton’s Community
Theatre, which has educated the
community through the art of
theatrical productions for the
past 40 years. Ticket prices vary.
Visit dentoncommunitytheatre.
com for the list of upcoming
shows. 214 W. Hickory St.
940-382-7014.
Ghosts of Denton Tours 
Everyone loves a good story.
Learn about Denton’s history
through an interactive walking
tour led by professional storyteller Shelly Tucker on Friday and
Saturday nights. Stay warm with
a cup of steaming hot chocolate
from Jupiter House, where the
spooky tour begins. Children’s
tickets are $6 each for ages 6-11,
and adults are $10 each. Email
shelly@ghostsofdenton.com for
more information. 817-996-9775.
Denton County Courthouseon-the-Square Museum 
The Denton County Courthouseon-the-Square Museum offers
an up-close and personal
experience through photos and
artifacts of Denton’s history.
Free exhibits are conveniently
located inside. 110 W. Hickory St.
940-349-2850.
Rafes Urban
Astronomy Center 
Come out for a star-studded
party the first Saturday of
each month at the University
of North Texas’ Rafes Urban
Astronomy Center. For only $5
per person (free admission for
children younger than 4) you
can view the night sky through
a telescope. For details, visit
astronomy.unt.edu/starparties.
html or email skytheater@unt.
edu. 2350 Tom Cole Road.
Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned
Ice Cream 
As the motto goes, good taste
knows no season. Whether it’s
hot or cold, Beth Marie’s Old
Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor is a
must-visit place. Stop by for a
scoop of homemade ice cream
in a delicious waffle cone, or if
you’re up for a challenge, try
the family-sized sundae. 117 W.
Hickory St. 940-384-1818.
Recycled Books, Records & CDs
If you’ve ever had a hard time
tracking down a book, record or
CD, you won’t have that problem
here. This repurposed historic
purple opera house might look
funny on the outside, but they
mean business. Enjoy a large
assortment of children’s books
or browse the music section to
find that CD you’ve been looking
for—all at great prices. 200 N.
Locust St. 940-566-5688.
Small Fry Children’s Boutique
Dress your little fashionista
with some chic new threads
from this locally owned
children’s clothing boutique.
Located a few blocks down the
square, this shop has been
operating for 44 years and
keeps Denton’s kids looking cool.
View full collections online at
smallfrychildrensclothing.com.
330 Sunset St. 940-387-9915.
Cartwright’s Ranch House 
Who says you can’t enjoy a
home-style dinner away from
home? Gather around the
family table at Cartwright’s
Ranch House and feast on ranch
favorites with endless sides.
The rustic feel of this renovated
theater tells Denton’s story
through a mural on the back
wall. 111 N. Elm St. 940-387-7706.
Texas Gold Mine BBQ 
If you smell something
delicious grilling while you’re
on the square it just might be
coming from this independent,
family-owned barbeque haven
right next to Campus Theatre.
Fill your mini miners’ appetites
and enjoy what Dentonites
know as “the gold standard in
BBQ.” 222 W. Hickory St. #102,
940-387-4999.
Sweetwater Grill and Tavern
If your family enjoys live music,
come on out to Sweetwater Grill
and Tavern for Tex-Mex, burgers
and specialty plates. If the
weather’s nice, lounge on the
patio and admire the essence of
Denton’s historic district.
115 S. Elm St. 940-484-2888.
D E N T O N
L I V E
25
Strut
your
mutt!
The Dog Days of
Denton brings
together besties
of all breeds for a
doggone good day.
Who let the dogs out? You’ll finally
find an answer to this decades-old
mystery September 27 at the 21st
annual Dog Days of Denton, where
about 7,000 people will bring their
best friends to the event’s new venue,
the North Texas Fairgrounds.
Dog Days Director Kevin Lechler
says the location change will allow for
a more inclusive layout of the event.
This year’s spokesdog, a Great
Pyrenees rescue dog named Solaris,
will also have a longer “reign” than
her predecessors because of a change
in the date. While previous Dog Days
were held in the summer, Lechler
says moving it to September is better
for the dogs because it is not as hot.
“The weather is not as predictable in
September, but at least we won’t have
the temperatures of June,” he says.
Dog Days this year will feature
the traditional pet tricks and dog
singing (where dogs show off their
best howls) contests, along with the
highly-coveted Spokesdog Pageant.
Owners submit an application with a
photograph and a paragraph of why
26
D E N T O N
L I V E
Big and small, fluffy and cute, Dog Days of Denton is the place to see Denton’s
furriest pals. Make sure to get your pet’s “GlamFur” shot, for only $5!
their dog would be a good spokesdog.
Lechler says judges are told to look
at candidates’ platforms and how
they’ll promote Dog Days. “The more
interesting he appears to the judges,
the more attention they’ll pay.”
In addition to these events, Dog
Days will also feature competitions
such as the “Canine Couture Costume
Contest” for the best dressed and
the cutest; “Dancing with the Dogs,”
with competitors bringing their own
music and preparing a 30-second
to one-minute routine; and “How
Obedient is Your Dog?” where
pooches are judged on how many
and how accurately they respond
to commands from their owners.
Vendors will be on hand with a
pooch-friendly products to purchase.
Photographers will take “GlamFur”
shots of the dogs with an assortment
of canine accoutrements to choose
from. Photos are $5 each.
Though it may not be heaven,
all dogs are invited to bark up the
right tree and bring their people
to Dog Days of Denton.
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. September 27.
North Texas Fairgrounds,
Save
the
Dates
25 can’t-miss
events in Denton
(Top) See cowboys,
young and old,
ride sheep,
horses and bulls.
Listen to your
favorite Red Dirt
Country artists
while eating your
favorite fair foods.
(Left) Go green—
for real! Kayak
from the Trinity
River to Denton’s
Clear Creek.
The Big Outdoors in Little d
For folks with a penchant
for the outdoors, the City of
Denton is offering two familyfriendly opportunities involving
Clear Creek. A kayaking trip from
the Elm Fork Branch of the Trinity
River to Denton’s Clear Creek will be
held July 11. The next day, hikers can
experience a variety of natural
habitats at the Clear Creek Natural
Heritage Center Wetlands and
Rookery Hike. Participants should
pre-register for both events by
Wednesday, July 9. dentonparks.com, 940-349-7275.
July
9
July
Wildfire Half Marathon
Runners wanting to test
their endurance or at least
have the experience of hearing
fans cheering while crossing the
50-yard line should join the Wildfire
Half Marathon. Registration is
$75 June 2-July 24, and $85 on
July 25 – 26. Registration is open
through the day of the race.
6 a.m. C.H. Collins Stadium, 1500 Long
Rd. wildfirehalf.com, 817-706-0368.
26
August
1
Twice Around the Park
Black Box Theatre, part
of the Denton Community
Theatre, will features Twice around
the Park by Murray Schisgal, a play
consisting of two one-act comedies:
A Need for Brussels Sprouts, about
an unemployed actor’s adventures
trying to get out of a ticket; and A
Need for Less Expertise, about a couple
trying to spice up their marriage with
a “workout” audio tape. 7:30 p.m.
Friday & Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday at
Black Box Theatre, 318 E. Hickory St.
dentoncommunitytheatre.com
August
8
Legally Blonde
What would it have looked
like if Reese Witherspoon’s
D E N T O N
L I V E
27
arts and crafts, games and a chalk
art contest. Collectors will have
the opportunity to have their items
appraised for $5. A silent auction
featuring downtown merchandise
will be held inside the Courthouse
from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children’s
activities will also be available.
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. dentonmainstreet.org.
Sept. 13, Oct. 4, Nov. 1
Horse Country Tours
Wind your way through
beautiful North Texas Horse Country
aboard a luxury motorcoach while
a fun and knowledgeable guide
narrates the facts and back story of
the area. Three behind-the-scene
tours are offered in the fall, Sept. 13,
Oct. 4 and Nov. 1. The tour visits two
premier horse ranches where you
can get an up close and personal look
at the equine industry. Advanced
reservation required—$40 ticket
price includes snacks, lunch and
drinks. (See story, p. 20.) Tour departs
at 9 a.m. from the Denton Historical
Park, Call 940-382-7895 to reserve
your seats, discoverdenton.com.
September
13
If you’re interested in classic cars, The
Arts, Antiques and Autos Extravaganza
is the place to be Sept. 13.
character had busted out in a song
and dance routine during her court
case in Legally Blonde? Theatergoers
get the idea at the musical adaptation of Legally Blonde. 7:30 p.m.
Thursday – Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday at
Campus Theatre, 214 W. Hickory St.,
dentoncommunitytheatre.com.
North Texas Fair
and Rodeo
Rodeo enthusiasts will get
a kick (or several) out of attending
the North Texas Fair and Rodeo.
The Fair and Rodeo exists to promote
western heritage and values.
Cowboys and cowgirls of all ages will
have the opportunity to participate
in various competitions. In addition,
the fair features animal shows, a
Rodeo Queen Contest, a Creative Arts
Show and a Beauty Pageant. The
Fair showcases well-known artists
in nightly concerts (see p. 22), and
features vendor booths and games.
North Texas Fairgrounds, 2217 N.
Carroll Blvd.; ntfair.com; 940-387-2632.
August
15-23
Arts, Antiques, & Autos
Extravaganza
Walking along the Denton
Downtown Square on Saturday,
Sept. 13 may be a lot like walking
in the 1950s. The 15th Annual Arts,
Antiques & Autos Extravaganza
features custom and classic cars
and motorcycles lining the block.
In addition to the vintage vehicles,
there will be live music, hands-on
September
13
28
D E N T O N
L I V E
September
Denton Blues Festival
If you’re suffering from the
“I’ve gotta get to Denton”
Blues, the cure would be attending
the Denton Blues Festival, a vibrant
annual gathering sponsored by the
Denton Black Chamber of Commerce.
1 – 6 p.m. Quakertown Park,
321 E. McKinney St.
dentonblackchamberonline.org.
20
GreenFest: GreenFest is
for nature lovers. In
addition to live music and
food, the event will include archery,
climbing, kayaking, biking,
geo-caching and demonstrations by
historians and craftsmen of the Cross
Timbers eco-region. Enjoy carriage
rides down the Greenbelt Trail as
well as pony rides and exhibits
featuring birds of prey and reptiles
for the kids. Admission $5 in advance,
$7 at the gate. 12 – 6 p.m. at Greenbelt
Park: South of Lake Ray Roberts Dam
on FM 455, friendsofthegreenbelt.org.
Industrial Street
International Pop Festival
Baby boomers who loved
the music of the likes of Bob Dylan
and Neil Young will totally dig
Geezerfest, the 2nd Annual
Industrial Street International Pop
Festival (AKA Geezerpalooza).
Celebrating music from the ’60s and
’70s, also recalls the International
Pop Festival, which produced a
Woodstock-like concert in Denton
County 40 years ago. Admission is
free, but donations will be accepted
for Serve Denton. 1 – 8 p.m. at
Industrial Street District: 103
Industrial St. 940-349-7732.
October
19
Day of the Dead Festival
Walking next to a skeleton
won’t be an unusual site on
Saturday, Oct. 25, during Denton’s
Day of the Dead Festival. Reminiscent of large community Halloween
gatherings, the event pays homage to
many of the fall’s treasures such as
cooler weather, the harvest, Dia de los
Muertos, and Halloween. Celebrating
the art and music communities, street
performers, sideshow entertainers
and vendors will be on hand. The
happening’s signature event, the
annual Coffin Races allow participants
to make their own “coffin cars” and
race other monsters. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Corner of Hickory and Industrial.
dentondayofthedeadfestival.com.
October
25
September
27
Enjoy a nice glass of French wine with
lovely cuisine without leaving town!
Beaujolais & More Wine
& Food Tasting
Red, white or blush? What
wine do you drink with your favorite
dish? The Beaujolais and More
Wine and Food Tasting offers the
chance to enjoy a variety of wines
shipped directly from France and
sample cuisine prepared at several
Denton restaurants. Tickets are $25
and proceeds go toward the Campus
Theatre. 5:30 – 7 p.m. at Denton Civic
Center, 321 E. McKinney St.
940-382-1915.
November
20
25
Holiday Lighting Festival
Your season will shine just a
little brighter after taking
part in Denton’s annual holiday
festivities on the historic square.
Thousands join for live music, arts and
crafts, and the lighting of a 20-foot-tall
live Christmas tree. (See story, p. 32.)
5:30 – 9:30 p.m. dentonholidaylighting.com.
December
5
ONGOING EVENTS
Farmers’ Market
Locally produced food is available
throughout the week at Denton’s
Farmers’ Market on Tuesdays,
Thursdays and Saturdays through
September. 7 a.m – sellout. at BaylessSelby House Museum parking lot, 317
W. Mulberry St. dentonfarmersmarket.com.
Community Market
This bazaar unites Denonites who buy
and sell handmade arts and crafts
every Saturday through November.
Wednesday Night Social Run
The Wednesday Night Social Run
brings runners together to support
each other while also touring parts
of the city. The free 5K is open to
runners of all levels and abilities.
Afterward, participants are invited to
socialize and enjoy a beer. The group
posts the course it plans to run during
any particular week on its Facebook
page. Oak Street Draft House,
308 E. Oak St. Check times at
facebook.com/DentonSocialRunners.
Ghost Tours
Every Friday and Saturday
Looking through a window in
an empty building, a visitor may
see a faint figure walk past. Is
somebody there, or is it a ghost?
Professional storyteller Shelly
Tucker leads weekly Ghost Tours
telling a different tale every time.
She may mention Sam Bass and his
“freinemy” Jim Murphy, who may
still haunt the streets of Denton,
or she may reference the ghost of
John B. Denton, the city’s namesake.
Either way, Tucker makes the experience memorable. Tickets are $10 for
adults and $6 for kids 6–11. 8 p.m. at
Jupiter House; 106 N. Locust St.,
ghostsofdenton.com.
First Friday
Artists and musicians from the
Denton area feature their work while
visitors stroll through downtown
Denton and experience the hospitality of local establishments. Many
businesses are open late and host
gallery openings and/or live music.
7 – 10 p.m. at Downtown Denton,
firstfridaydenton.com.
Third Thursday Paint Nite
Go from amateur to artist in a matter
of hours at the monthly Paint Nite.
Paint Nite is a great opportunity for
individuals or groups to be guided
by a professional artist while sipping
on a cocktail. Tickets are $45 and can
be purchased beforehand. The price
includes painting supplies such as a
canvas, paints, brushes and a smock.
A wine, martini and tapas menu
is also available. The Paint Nite is
followed by Hailey’s ’80s Night.
6 – 9 p.m. Hailey’s Club, 122 E.
Mulberry St. paintnite.com.
Irish Music Sessions
Known for its unique musical styling,
Denton also features a biweekly Irish
music session, fitting for a city that
also houses the Mean Green. They
are led by John Murphy, a button
accordion player. 3 – 5 p.m.
at Banter Bistro, 219 W. Oak St.
dentonbanter.com.
—Tony Guiérrez & Shelbi Mascheri
Gear up for a
college gameday
experience unlike
any other in Texas!
2014 Home Games:
Sept. 4 vs. SMU
Sept. 11 vs. La. Tech
Sept 20 vs. Nicholls St.
Oct. 18 vs. Southern Ms.
Nov. 8 vs. Fla. Atlantic
Nov. 22 vs. Fla. Int’l
For gameday information
and times, visit
meangreensports.com
D E N T O N
L I V E
mean green game day
One O’Clock Lab Band
Fall Concert
Considered one of the most
renowned jazz schools in the world,
the University of North Texas is home
to the six-time Grammy-nominated
One O’Clock Lab Band. No longer
allowed to compete in intercollegiate
jazz contests (yes, they’re that good),
the band will perform at the UNT’s
Murchison Performing Arts Center for
its 54th Annual Fall Concert. 8 p.m.;
Murchison Performing Arts Center:
2100 Interstate 35E Frontage Rd.,
jazz.unt.edu/oneoclock; 940-565-3743.
November
9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Denton County Historical
Park: Carroll Blvd. & Mulberry St.
dentonmarket.org.
29
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Park
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377
WO
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EAGLE DR
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34 32
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77
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46 40
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8
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24
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35
39
43
STUART
BUFFALO VALLEY
MERITT RANCH
EVENT CENTER
(Located at I-35
AND HOTEL
4
and Ganzer
(Located
at Road)
I-35
and Ganzer Road)
37
35
37
» Stay and Play
From dusk ‘till dawn, Denton’s hospitality team
will work to make your visit a memorable one!
accommodations
1 AMERICAS BEST VALUE INN & SUITES
13 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES
4485 N. I-35
(940) 808-0600
hiedenton.com
2 BEST WESTERN INN & SUITES
14 HOLIDAY INN & CONFERENCE CENTER
1434 Centre Place Drive
(940) 383-4100
holidayinn.com/dentontx
820 S. I-35E
(940) 387-0591
americasbestvalueinn.com
2910 W. University Drive
(940) 591-7726 bestwesterntexas.com/denton
3 BEST WESTERN PREMIER
2450 Brinker Road
(940) 387-1000 bestwesterntexas.com/premiercrownchase
4 BUFFALO VALLEY EVENT
CENTER AND HOTEL
2946 Ganzer Road W.
(940) 482-3409
buffalovalleyeventcenter.com
5 COMFORT INN
4050 Mesa Drive
(940) 320-5150
comfortinndenton.com
15 HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON
2907 Shoreline Drive
(940) 382-0420
denton.homewoodsuites.com
16 HOWARD JOHNSON EXPRESS INN
3116 Bandera St.
(940) 383-1681
hojo.com
17 KNIGHTS INN
601 N. I-35E
(940) 566-1990
knightsinn.com
18 MOTEL 6
6 COMFORT SUITES
700 Fort Worth Drive
(940) 387-5840
motel6.com
7 COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
19 LA QUINTA INN & SUITES
4465 N. I-35
(940) 808-0444
laquinta.com
1100 N. I-35E
(940) 898-8510
csdentontx.com
2800 Colorado Blvd.
(940) 382-4600
mariott.com/dfwde
8 DAYS INN
4211 N. I-35
(940) 383-1471
daysinn.com/23887
9 FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES
2900 W. University Drive
(940) 384-1700
marriott.com/DFWDN
10 HAMPTON INN & SUITES
1513 Centre Place Drive
(940) 891-4900
11 LOCUST STREET INN
815 N. Locust St.
(940) 565-6414
12 HILTON GARDEN INN & SUITES
3110 Colorado Blvd.
(940) 891-4700
denton.hgi.com
20 MOTEL 6
4125 N. I-35E
(940) 566-4798
motel6.com
21 QUALITY INN AND SUITES
1500 Dallas Drive
(940) 387-3511
choicehotels.com/hotel/tx836
22 ROYAL INN & SUITES
1210 N. I-35E
(940) 383-2007
royalinnsuitesdenton.com
23 SUPER 8 MOTEL
620 S. I-35E
(940) 380-8888
super8.com
24 VALUE PLACE
4505 N. I-35
(940) 387-3400
valueplace.com
25 THE WILDWOOD INN
2602 Lillian Miller Parkway
(940) 243-4919
denton-wildwoodinn.com
Important contacts
26 DENTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
DENTON CONVENTION
& VISITORS BUREAU
414 Parkway
(940) 382-7895 (888) 381-1818
discoverdenton.com
27 EMILY FOWLER CENTRAL LIBRARY
502 Oakland St.
(940) 349-8752
28 NORTH BRANCH
CENTRAL LIBRARY
3020 N. Locust St.
(940) 349-8752
29 SOUTH BRANCH LIBRARY
3228 Teasley Lane
(940) 349-8752
38 OXIDE GALLERY
115 Eagle Dr.
(940) 483-8900
oxidegallery.com
39 SKATE WORKS PARK
2400 Long Road
(940) 349-8523
cityofdenton.com (skate works)
40 TEXAS FIRST LADIES
HISTORIC COSTUME COLLECTION
Texas Woman’s University
(940) 898-3644
twu.edu/gown-collection
41 UNT ON THE SQUARE
109 N. Elm St.
(940) 369 8257
untonthesquare.unt.edu
30 CITY HALL
42UNT SKY THEATER PLANETARIUM
UNT Campus, EESAT Building
1704 W. Mulberry St.
(940) 369-8213
skytheater.unt.edu
Museums
& attractions
43WATER WORKS PARK
Loop 288 at Sherman Drive
(940) 349-8810
cityofdenton.com (aquatics)
215 E. McKinney St.
(940) 349-8200
cityofdenton.com
31 APOGEE STADIUM
1251 S. Bonnie Brae
(940) 565-2527
stadium.meangreensports.com
32 PATTERSON-APPLETON
CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS
400 E. Hickory St.
(940) 382-2787
dentonarts.com
33 COURTHOUSE-ON-THE-SQUARE
MUSEUM
110 W. Hickory St.
(940) 349-2850
dentoncounty.com/chos
34 DENTON FIREFIGHTERS MUSEUM
332 E. Hickory St.
(940) 349-8840
35 GREENBELT TRAIL
Located off US 380 and FM 428
(940) 349-8202
36 HANGAR 10 FLYING MUSEUM
Denton Airport
1945 Matt Wright Lane
(940) 565-1945
37 HISTORICAL PARK OF DENTON COUNTY:
AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM AND
BAYLESS-SELBY HOUSE MUSEUM
317 W. Mulberry St.
(940) 349-2865
dentoncounty.com
Performing Arts
44THE CAMPUS THEATRE
214 W. Hickory St.
(940) 382-1915
campustheatre.com
45POINT BANK BLACK BOX THEATRE
318 E. Hickory St.
(940) 383-1356
dentoncommunitytheatre.com
46MARGO JONES PERFORMANCE HALL
Texas Woman’s University
(940) 898-2500
twu.edu/music/margo-jones-hall.asp
47 MURCHISON PERFORMING ARTS
CENTER
University of North Texas
(940) 369-7802
music.unt.edu/mpac
48REDBUD THEATER
Texas Woman’s University
(940) 898-2020
twu.edu/redbud-theater
49UNT DEPARTMENT OF DANCE & THEATRE
University of North Texas
(940) 565-2211
danceandtheatre.unt.edu
Shine Bright, Little d.
This Griswoldian tradition outshines all others!
Multicolored or
clear? Have it
both ways on the
Denton square!
32
D E N T O N
D E N T O N
L I V E
L IV E
Carolers, photos with Santa and horse-drawn
wagon rides around the square are all elements
that help kick off the holiday season at Denton’s
annual Holiday Lighting Festival. Celebrate the
most wonderful time of year at this free event
Friday, December 5, 2014 from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. and
see why Denton is the perfect place to call home for
the holidays.
The 26-year-old tradition, hosted by the Denton
Holiday Lighting Festival Association (DHFA),
brings thousands of people to the square each year
to enjoy live music, arts and crafts, and marvel at
a 20-foot-tall live Christmas tree illuminated with
thousands of tiny, multicolored lights. The beautiful
evergreen serves not only as a visual centerpiece
of the festivities but also commemorates the life
and work of Precinct 3 Commissioner Lee Walker,
a beloved figure in Denton’s history. Walker
served three consecutive four-year terms on the
Commissioners Court, and was the first woman to
be elected to the court.
Walker was known for putting the public good
before politics, and served as the president of the
County Judges and Commissioners of Texas. One
of Walker’s proudest achievements was overseeing
the original restoration of the Denton courthouse.
After her death, the Denton County Commissioners
Court voted to dedicate the tree in her honor in
1992. Each year the tree glimmers in remembrance
of Williams’ service to the community at the flip of
a switch at the Holiday Lighting Festival.
In addition to live music, dance performances,
wagon rides and photos with Santa, a toy drive
benefits Denton County Toy Store, a local nonprofit
that provides Christmas gifts for children of
low-income families in the community.
The celebration wouldn’t feel right without
warm apple cider in hand. Denton Main Street
Association annually hosts Wassail Fest in concurrence with the Holiday Lighting Festival. Attendees
enjoy tasting more than 30 merchants’ personal
twists on the holiday beverage in the shops on
and around the square. At the end of the night the
votes are tallied up and the WassailQueen or King
is named.
Thanks to the DHFA, residents of Denton enjoy a
taste of the holiday’s cheery ambiance year-round.
The organization’s volunteers provide maintenance
for the twinkling lights that sparkle on the trees
around the courthouse, showing that in Denton the
Christmas spirit is never out of season.
Visit dentonholidaylighting.com for more
information—and a dose of holiday cheer! For
downtown going-ons throughout the year, visit
dentonmainstreet.org.
—Lauren Frock
The
Seryn
Sound
Known for a grassroots sound
unique to Denton, with tones of
modern-folk, indie, acoustic and
electric, Seryn’s sound can be gentle
and at other times downright
thunderous. Formed in 2009, their
freshman album This is Where We
Are was named a top 50 album of
2011 by Paste Magazine. Fast forward
three years and Seryn’s avoided a
sophomore slump by slow-roasting
another batch of songs, including
ballads like “Ivory Black.” At a sneakpeek performance of their soon-tobe-released album at Dan’s Silverleaf
Lounge in downtown Denton, Seryn
chats about their success, running out
of gas, the creative process and plans
for a show on the moon.
How has Denton’s sound shaped your
music? Trenton: “You have so many
people trying to submerge themselves
into music because they know Denton
has the potential to trump Dallas and
Fort Worth creatively. You’ve got a
place like Dan’s where you can come
one night and hear the most raging
polka band and another night you
hear a singer-songwriter on acoustic
guitar and the next night you hear
bluegrass.”
Aaron: “We are so far off the map in
the best way possible.”
Members of Denton band Seryn becam
e local celebrities after the surprise
success of their
first album. They show off their uniqu
e sound at Dan’s Silverleaf Lounge.
[From left to right:
Jordan Rochefort, Trenton Wheeler,
Jenny Moscoso, Nathan James Allen
, Aaron David Stoner]
As a young band, how did the song
“We Will all be changed” come to be?
Nathan: I had the most amazing job;
I was a building monitor for the art
department. I got paid to sit there.
I did shows while I was at work. I
did my homework, hosted parties…
Anyway, it was Valentine’s Day.
Trenton had his eye on a lady at the
time but hadn’t put a ring on her
finger yet. We decided to work on
this little guitar riff that I had come
up with. We sat there all night and
worked on the song.
Trenton: The song says exactly
what it’s about … that we know we are
not where we want to be. Everyone
knows that feeling, wishing you were
a year down the road or 10 years down
the road.
How do you balance financial success
with creative freedom? Trenton:
As musicians, we want to think we
are going to do something fresh
and completely new; but...we are in
a culture with trends. There is this
constant push and pull of finding that
place … the place where we can be
extremely real and honest.
Aaron: It would be nice to sell some
records. And without some chart
success, we can’t do that. We are still
trying to punk rock our way through
this, so there is this struggle between
commercial success and artistic
success. Those people who magically
have both—Radiohead, Pink Floyd, The
Beatles—are who we are trying to be.
“Ivory Black” was the first follow-up
to your freshman album. How did this
single reignite the group?
Nathan: We hadn’t written a song in
a long time. You just want to bang
your head on the wall for months and
months. Nothing’s happening and
you question your value as an artist.
“Ivory Black” comes from the idea that
elephant bones burn and turn into
ink. That ink is used to create words
or art. It was exactly what was going
on in the band at the time.
Trenton: It was appropriate to write
a song about coming out of the desert.
Once the dust settled, we started
writing songs again. It was a catalyst
that helped us keep moving forward.
What can we expect from Seryn after
the success of “This is Where We Are?”
Aaron: We would like to be the first
band to play on the moon. Basically, as
soon as we release our next record, it
is either yes, OK, you can play on the
moon or it will be no, you guys need
to go back to UNT and finish college.
D E N T O N
L I V E
D E N T O N
L I V E
33
Around the block, around the clock...
It’s happening in Historic Downtown Denton.
Museums. Galleries. Shopping. Dining. Festivals. Live Music. Performing Arts.
That’s Entertainment!
Denton Main Street
Association
For information on events and promotions,
visit www.dentonmainstreet.org
or call (940) 349-8529
Denton Community Theatre
Forty-Four years of Exceptional Theatre
Tickets: 940-382-7014 or www.dentoncommunitytheatre.com
Dec. 5, 6, 7
Campus Theatre
Sept. 12, 13, 14, 18,19,
20, 21
Denton Firefighters’
Museum
332 E. Hickory St.
Hours: Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Dec. 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21
Campus Theatre
Aug. 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16,17
Campus Theatre
318 E. Hickory
POINTBank Black BoxTheatre
Nov. 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16
Campus Theatre
Aug. 1, 2, 3
POINTBank Black BoxTheatre
214 W. Hickory
Admission is free.
For more information visit
www.dentonfirefightermuseum.com
or call (940) 349-8840