Fort Worth Weekly // Holidays // December 6-12, 2023

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November 5–January 28

Promotional support provided by Pierre Bonnard, Dining Room in the Country (detail), 1913, oil on canvas. Lent by the Minneapolis Institute of Art, The John R. Van Derlip Fund. © 2023 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

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The exhibition is organized by the Kimbell Art Museum and The Phillips Collection. It is supported in part by Frost, the Texas Commission on the Arts, the Fort Worth Tourism Public Improvement District, and by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities.

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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Experience the light and color of France

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N u m ber 33

D ecember 6- 1 2, 2023

INSIDE Charity Work

These nonprofits give us reason to hope and need your help.

By Edward Brown

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CONTRIBUTORS

Reindeer Games

Festive cocktail recipes from premier local mixologists await like an unwrapped gift.

By Christina Berger and Edward Brown

Screen for Joy

Dozens of new films — from comedies to Oscar bait — will flood the multiplexes this holiday season.

By Kristian Lin

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Cour tesy TX Whiskey

HOLIDAYS 2023

Volume 1 9

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Sweet Notes

From Cameron Smith and Jessi England to Neil Young and Nicki Minaj, this season is silly with new records.

By Patrick Higgins and Steve Steward

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EDITORIAL BOARD Anthony Mariani, Edward Brown, Emmy Smith

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We get it. Not everyone digs the holidays.

I kinda don’t. The biggest reason is probably that my family buried our 63-year-young father on December 21 nearly 30 years ago, which sucked and changed my life (mostly for the worse) forever. I also know that — and you’ve also probably seen this meme floating around recently — the more negativity you generate, the more negativity you attract while the more gratitude you show, the more things you’ll have to be grateful for, so I’m choosing thankfulness. Yay, me.

Starting with my immediate vicinity, I’m thankful for you, our readers.

Without your support for our advertisers, we would not be able to report, write, edit, and produce the powerful investigative stories we do on the regular that piss off the Mercy Culture cultists, County Judge and Nutcase Emeritus Tim O’Hare, the Bible-thumping clowns at Patriot Mobile, and all the other women-hating, LGBTQ-loathing, ethnic minoritydespising “Christians” trying to take over our town. Grazie mille, y’all.

I’m also thankful for our advertisers, who keep this show going and who, y’know, don’t throw too big a fit once we go after the other half of town who support the rampant bigotry that’s been ramped up since one certain orange cretin became “president” in 2016.

Thanks for sticking by us.

And where would we be without the team behind this and every issue we produce. Without fail. Fifty-two weeks a year (and online even more than that).

Gracias, amigos.

I hope this is the merriest Christmas of all our lives, but, Great Spirit in the Sky, if there’s only so much hope to go around, I’d rather be miserable for the next few months than have to endure another sexist, racist, classist White House. I’ll totes be super-grateful for that.

Merry Christmas, you filthy animals. Cheers. *raises pint of N/A beer* — Anthony Mariani

ON THE COVER

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Channeling Clark Griswold for our cover is Fort Worth comedian Ian Mac. Follow him @ianmacpresents or via ianmacpresents.com and greatunwashedpodcast.com.

HOLIDAYS 2023

HOLIDAYS

Cover photo by Wyatt Newquist

FEATURES NONPROFITS

STUFF

While shopping, don’t forget to set aside some dough for these worthy causes.

With so many great video games out, you can’t go wrong gifting this year.

BY EDWARD BROWN

BY COLE WILLIAMS

EATS & DRINKS

MUSIC TSO, Matt Tedder, and Midgefest (!) are just some of the season’s coolest local shows.

Peek inside for delicious, original cocktail recipes from some of town’s finest mixologists.

BY CHRISTINA BERGER AND EDWARD BROWN

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N OV 2 0 – J A N 7

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ICE SKATING STOCKYARDS STYLE

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giddy up & glide

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Tarrant County’s nonprofits can’t perform their charitable work without your financial support.

E D W A R D

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Girls Inc. of Tarrant County helps more than 20,000 girls and female teens every year through school- and communitybased programs, summer camps, weekend events, and mentoring. The programs focus on media and economic literacy, science, the arts, and mathematics, among other important subjects. Participants learn skills often not taught in school, including how to identify and deal with bullies. The nonprofit recently came under attack by County Judge Tim O’Hare, arguably the biggest bully in North Texas, and ended up losing $115,000 in needed state funding because the white-trash Southlaker falsely equates empowered future female leaders with the “woke” agenda, whatever that may be, some Fox Nation bogeyman dreamed up to scare the 65-and-over crowd. His disgraceful behavior hasn’t stopped this nonprofit from pushing forward with its mission, but making up for that budget shortfall won’t be easy without the generosity of locals. Learn more at GirlsIncTarrant.org.

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There are plenty of reasons to lose faith in humanity right now. Whether it’s our horrible county judge trying to defund a nonprofit that helps girls become confident female leaders or a justice system that serves mass incarceration and lavish attorney fees over us lowly citizens, bad actors and crooked institutions are everywhere in Tarrant County.

Often lost in the gloomy news is the steadfast work of local nonprofits that, on a tight budget, do their part to lighten the burdens of our community while restoring some semblance of hope to society. These do-gooders do not have a lot of dough, so they would appreciate any scratch you can throw their way this holiday season.

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On the Near Southside, Taste Project — which allows diners to pay what they can — has been a pioneer in demonstrating the power of combining great food with a charitable cause. A new endeavor, Foodie Philanthropy, empowers any local restaurant and all food lovers to enjoy a night out while supporting worthy nonprofits. The next fundraiser is Sat, Feb 25, at dozens of participating Fort Worth restaurants, including

Walt Burns

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Every year, local high school artists have the opportunity to win awards and cash prizes through Gallery of Dreams’ Betsy Price High School Art Competition.

B&B Butchers & Restaurant, Bonnell’s Fine Texas Cuisine, and Don Artemio, among others. Participants can book a table of 10 or buy individual tickets to break bread with new friends. The $75250 ticket includes a three-course meal, wine or drink pairings, and access to an exclusive after-party. Learn more at FoodiePhilanthropy.org.

Our recent profile of singer-songwriter Carolina Imperial (“Between Two Worlds,” Oct 25) included a sobering description of life with an alleged abuser.

With the help of SafeHaven, a nonprofit shelter for survivors, Imperial was able to flee her husband and start a new life.

SafeHaven staffers, Imperial told us, guided her through the emotional and potentially dangerous separation process.

The nonprofit’s approach to helping survivors is comprehensive and includes 24hour emergency sheltering, transitional

housing, counseling, case management, and legal support. Victims of partner abuse can call 1-877-701-7233 for help.

Learn more at SafeHavenTC.org.

Life would be downright boring without live music. Keeping our bands gigging requires community support. Beside our weekly music features, Friday on the Green, and our annual Fort Worth Weekly Music Awards and festival, no group does as much to support local musicians regularly as Hear Fort Worth.

The nonprofit under the umbrella of Visit Fort Worth, the city’s tourism wing, has been at work for seven years now organizing popular monthly mixers, spotlighting musicians on various platforms, hosting education events, and providing paying gigs for musicians at public events here, across the country, and even abroad. Learn more at FortWorth.com/ music.

Cour tesy Hear For t Wor th

HOLIDAYS 2023

Helping Helpers

Hear Fort Worth’s monthly mixers offer local musicians the chance to network and mingle.

Based on data from the National Institutes of Health, more than one in five Americans live with a mental illness.

Following the 2017 loss of a close friend struggling with bipolar disorder, local entrepreneur twins Susan Gruppi Miller and Jessica Miller Essl founded M2G MHI, a nonprofit advocating for change in how mental illness is diagnosed and treated. There is still much research to be done to better understand the genetic and medical causes of personality disorders, and M2G MHI raises hundreds of thousands of dollars every year to support clinical studies that may one day lead to better health outcomes for folks struggling with depression, chronic anxiety, and other related disorders. The charity’s annual fundraiser, Art of the Mind, auctions art for the cause, but donations to M2G MHI can be made throughout the year by contacting program director Hannah Stephens at HStephens@ M2GVentures.com.

Our community would be bereft of thought-provoking and life-affirming art without opportunities for young artists to show work and even earn money from their pieces. Founded in 2017 by Lauren Saba, the visual artist who owns Fort Works Art, Gallery of Dreams offers open-call exhibits, artist residencies, grant initiatives, and various opportunities for artists of all ages. The charity’s marquee event is the annual Betsy Price High School Art Competition. To date, Gallery of Dreams has contributed more than $340,000 toward its charitable causes.

Learn more at GalleryofDreams.org. l

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DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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HOLIDAYS 2023

HOLIDAYS 2023

FRIDAY NIGHTS at the MODERN Free Gallery Admission Every Friday

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DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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Galleries open until 8 pm

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The Modern Lights November 24–February 2

Friday Night Dinner Seating in Café Modern from 5–8:30 pm

Friday Night Films 4, 6, and 8 pm MODERN ART MUSEUM OF FORT WORTH 3200 Darnell Street • Fort Worth, TX 76107

www.themodern.org

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Before the “woke mob” (lol!) accuses us of lacking religious diversity and before members of the Mercy Culture Cult think we’ve found Jesus, let me explain.

This time of year is full of seasonal celebrations of other faiths and a million different traditions, but when I put out an open call to my writers for their favorite winter customs or memories, all I got was Christmas stuff, which is totally fine — like a lot of folks from my generation or thereabouts (including, possibly, these writers), I was raised Catholic, so I get it. Any memories of Hanukkah or Kwanzaa — or, best of all, Festivus — are more than welcome below. We can’t promise they won’t be surrounded by spiteful trash, but they’re still welcome. Buon Natale, all!

— Anthony Mariani

Angel Taxi from the Seven Fishes

For me, every minute after Thanksgiving in the 1970s and early ’80s revolved around our family’s annual trip to Nonna’s for Christmas Eve. On the pastoral urban acreage that she owned with Pup-Pup near the original Pittsburgh Airport, about 45 minutes from our house near downtown, we four kids finally got to see our cousins, an equally untamed herd with whom we mainlined fully leaded Pepsi and played the Ouija board and Monopoly undisturbed for hours — at least until the seven fishes.

An Italian tradition brought over on the banana boat along with my dad’s entire side of the family (like, 200 of them), this feast is basically assorted fish prepared seven ways. The reason has something to do with Jesus or some Italian saint or something. I don’t know. Maybe you can google it for me.

Now, Nonna, who remains the all-time champion of the world’s kitchen, often flicked her chin at tradition and went wild (sweet babushka mama!). Baccala in garlic and oil; fried smelt, cod, or flounder; sometimes eel (Pup-Pup’s favorite); sauces with sardines, clams, or langostinos — the house bloomed with the aromas of seafood, herbs, and garlic and rang with the sounds of yell-talking in English and Italian, the Godfather

Ridglea Hills Is Lit

Maybe the six (sometimes seven) Christmas trees I put up every year gives it away, but I love Christmastime.

And after all that decorating work is done, the thing I always look forward to during the holiday season is seeing what everyone else has come up with. We fill up to-go mugs of hot chocolate before hooking my Spotify Coolest Christmas Playlist ® up to the car speakers and heading over to Ridglea Hills to search for the best Christmas lights in Fort Worth. The midcentury gem of a neighborhood nestled between Hwy 183 continued on page 11

HOLIDAYS 2023

INVITES YOU TO A

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It’s a time for traditions old and new.

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Christmas Past

soundtrack, and King of the High C’s (both on eight-track).

My 86-year-old mother has great memories of those meals and her long departed in-laws. Nonna, Mummy said, “used to always cook octopus as well until the day it jumped in the sink while she was cutting it up and cleaning it.

She never made octopus after that.”

I still never dined so lavishly. And perhaps never will again.

Unlike in Southern/Texas families, where the under-18 set eats first for some weird, disturbing reason, up north, the heads of the household dig in before everyone else, leaving the kids to fight over the scraps and rightfully so. Always by the time I’d loaded up my plate, Daddy, my uncles, and all the older male cousins were gone from the table. The garage out back had called to them.

A dimly lit retreat that housed no vehicles but a long folding table, lots of folding chairs, a beat-up lawnmower, and a full-size fridge from the 1960s and that was surrounded by a small fencedin garden, a few fig and lemon trees, and some dead grass, it was where Daddy and all the other old Mariani dagos played poker, drank 7-and-7’s and Iron Citys, smoked Luckys and Camels, and yell-talked for hours into the night.

Mummy always said the angels drove us home. Dragging Daddy away from his cards, his 7-and-7’s, his Luckys, and his father, brothers, brothers-in-law, and cousins was nearly impossible, and when we did finally stuff him into the driver’s seat of our black ’77 Coupe de Ville — to make the long, treacherous trek back into town, doubly dangerous if it was snowing, and it almost always was back then — my mother’s furtive prayers to arrive home safely were always answered. I knew we’d be OK because I’d earlier asked the Ouija board, and, under the direction of the presiding spirit, the short, clearpainted fingertips of my older sister Virginia and our cousin Lisa guided the planchette to “Yes.” — A.M.

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and Camp Bowie does it up right for the season, but the pièce de résistance is the group of homes nestled along Luther Lake, a small body of water located entirely within the confines of the neighborhood.

Cars complete a circuit around the outside of the lake, taking in the festive décor (and swoonworthy architecture) along the way before lining up along a bridge that crosses the lake to check out the decorated boats and choreographed light show, usually synced to a station on your car’s radio. Every year, it seems, these houses present something new and spectacular, not to be missed if you enjoy looking at Christmas lights. (A recent fav: a light show set to the hit song “Blinding Lights,” complete with a lit-up The Weeknd singing along.)

If my Christmas crew and I are still in the spirit, we often head over to the Ryan Place/Fairmount neighborhoods to check out more toned down but still beautiful light displays before popping in to nearby WineHaus for some hot mulled wine to finish out the perfect Christmas evening. — Emmy Smith

Growing up in the Mexican familyrestaurant business, I’m fully aware of how popular tamales are this time of year. While they indeed represent Hispanic culture, they were considered the sacred food of the gods in the Aztec and Mayan civilizations. Talk about tradition!

My family loves making and unwrapping tamales on Christmas Eve. As a little guy, I remember the excitement of spending every December 24 at my grandmother’s home on South Jennings near Hemphill Street on the Near Southside. It’s a small abode that’s still standing thanks to my Uncle Ray, who stayed there as a handyman after Grandma Josie died more than 20 years ago. Along with Grandpa Manuel Govea, Grandma raised seven boys and two girls and all of us cousins. It was always a full house for the celebration.

The Christmas tree was lit, and many presents sat under the bright, twinkling lights.

Everything started a few moments before 12am. The family would meet at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Magnolia Avenue for midnight mass, and afterward, everyone went back to Grandma’s, where the tamale making continued on page 13

Dennis Ledis

continued from page 9

HOLIDAYS 2023

Unwrapping Goodness

Take a leisurely vehicular tour through Ridglea Hills to enjoy the elegant light displays.

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HOLIDAYS 2023

A Father’s Christmas Wish

Holiday traditions at Chez Brown center on food and the piano. After clearing small mountains of bulgogi and smatterings of American sides, the Brown and Choi clans traditionally gather around my parents’ Boston grand piano. In that smallish studio, my 5-year-old daughter R. enamors kinfolk with freeform dancing while, in past visits, her half-brother A. reminds the fam that the third generation of Brown musicians are no slackers, even if they prefer pop tunes to Beethoven.

It’s been two years since R.’s halfbrother A. visited for the holidays. The past 13 months have been an exhausting succession of family court appearances and failed demands for Tarrant County’s 231st District Court to enforce their visitation orders. Throughout the ordeal and due to my reporting, I’ve connected to and met with dozens of parents who have unjustly lost access to their

When I see friends from different cultures placing orders for tamales this time of year, I smile a wholesome smile.

HOLIDAYS 2023 fwweekly.com

lasted until early the next morning.

With a wink of sleep, we unwrapped Christmas presents the next day with our bellies full of tamales.

Even though Grandma and Grandpa are gone, my family gathers at my parents’ house or a relative’s home to keep the tradition alive. It’s fun hearing stories about the old days while my aunts help prepare the tamales.

I remember asking my dad why we always make tamales for Christmas. The corn husk signifies unwrapping a gift, he said. Dad and the family didn’t have much money growing up, so unwrapping a tamale is not only symbolic but sneakily utilitarian — they can feed a lot of people inexpensively.

Tamaleros and tamaleras have gotten creative now, filling tamales with different types of meat and other ingredients (including vegetarian). I don’t think tamales will ever go out of style, and the Christmas custom tickles me. When I see friends from different cultures placing orders for tamales this time of year, I smile a wholesome smile.

— Juan R. Govea

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

continued from page 11

children because Texas family court judges have admitted false allegations as fact, attorneys have bankrupted the otherwise fit and loving parent, or — as is often the case — a bit of both.

Parents like Brooks McKenzie, Bekah Montgomery, Glen Terry, myself, and many others are demanding reforms that will one day ensure that children are never kept from loving and fit parents.

The current family court system that allows and even encourages baseless allegations to be admitted as facts is designed to generate revenue for judges, attorneys, and court officials while too frequently placing the interests of children dead last.

Interference with child custody exchanges is another source of anguish for parents during the holidays. Four times this past year, I’ve waited at airports for my son only to realize that my planned precious time with him has been obstructed. Enforcing courtordered exchanges can easily cost several thousand dollars, and Texas’ judiciary often fails to hold scofflaw parents accountable for engaging in what amounts to parental alienation. A new law allows municipalities to pass an ordinance for fining violators of child exchanges, and I would encourage folks to look up House Bill 939. Fort Worth and Tarrant County need this option that circumvents our greedy family law system.

This Christmas (or whatever holiday tradition you practice), keep the loving parents who are fighting to see their children in your thoughts and prayers. If you have the opportunity to meet one of our elected leaders, tell them that our government has a duty to protect the rights of children to know both their parents. Children are the product of two people, and as long as those moms and dads are involved and loving, no system should diminish their access to their children.

A.’s recent absences reminded our family what a central role his visits and sense of humor played in bringing joy to Chez Brown over the years. For our family, the Nativity story’s message of hope is one that we will reflect on as we once again gather around the piano to celebrate Christmas. — Edward Brown l

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K R I S T I A N

L I N

The Hollywood writers’ and actors’ strikes are now over, but the ripple effects are still evident at the multiplexes.

The Dune sequel got bumped to the spring, and several other big-ticket items have seen their release dates delayed. However, your local movie theater won’t be short of options as the Christmas season approaches.

This is especially true if you prefer your holiday movies with music. The film version of Waitress: The Musical comes to big screens for less than a week starting this weekend, with star Sara Bareilles performing the songs she wrote for the show. Another Broadway adaptation expected to be a bigger hit is The Color Purple, with a cast full of stars (Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo, H.E.R., Fantasia Barrino) performing the songs in Alice Walker’s epic tale of friendship. If you’d rather have an original musical, Dune’s Timothée Chalamet won’t be absent

It’s been 23 years, but there’s finally a new addition to the chicken coop in Chicken Run 2: Dawn of the Nugget.

from the screens as he stars in Wonka, a prequel to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory telling the story of how the candymaker got started in his business.

With animated films, Illumination Studios releases Migration, about a family of ducks undertaking the great journey for the first time. Rainbows comes out too, for all the horse girls in the audience, and Netflix releases Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, a sequel to the 2000 claymation film. The biggest item may be The Boy and the Heron, a Japanese tale set in the world between life and death and reported to be the last anime film from 82-year-old master Hayao Miyazaki.

The holidays always seem to bring biopics. George Clooney directs The Boys in the Boat, a sports drama about the University of Washington rowing team that overcame great odds to win

gold at the 1936 Summer Olympics, and Sean Durkin (who did Martha Marcy May Marlene) administers The Iron Claw, starring Zac Efron, Harris Dickinson, and Jeremy Allen White as the Von Erich brothers, who took over pro wrestling in the 1980s.

On a more highbrow note, two other films set people talking at the film festivals this past fall. Bradley Cooper stars in his own Maestro, about the complicated life and career of conductor, composer, and music educator Leonard Bernstein, and old hand Michael Mann helms Ferrari, which stars Adam Driver as the legendary Italian automaker.

On foreign shores, Hirokazu Koreeda departs from his usual low-key realism for Monster, about a Japanese mother whose son starts to behave disturbingly at school. The Korean entry Concrete Utopia is a disaster movie about a group

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DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

Here’s what to expect at the multiplexes during the festive season.

Cour tesy Aardman/Netflix

Holiday Movie Preview

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of survivors trying to rebuild their lives after a massive earthquake levels the city of Seoul. Other awards contenders include Steve McQueen’s Occupied City, a documentary exploring the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam from the lens of the present day, and Andrew Haigh’s All of Us Strangers, with Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal as a gay couple at the center of a time-travel plot.

Cord Jefferson’s hilarious satire American Fiction is about a Black novelist who finds notoriety by using a pen name to write a novel full of outrageous Black stereotypes. This week, Eileen is a bruising psychological thriller with Thomasin McKenzie’s prison clerical worker falling in love with Anne Hathaway as the prison’s new psychotherapist. Jonathan Glazer comes out with his first movie in 10 years. The Zone of Interest chronicles Rudolf Hess and his shocking success rebuilding his life right next to the grounds of Auschwitz after World War II. Still, the movie to anticipate is Poor Things. Reuniting Emma Stone with director Yorgos Lanthimos, it’s a picaresque tale inspired by Frankenstein, with a dead Victorian Englishwoman brought back to life and rebuilding her identity by having sex with lots of people.

I suppose I should mention Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom at some point in this piece. That’s the one entry for the blockbuster crowd, and Anyone But You is a romantic comedy to test the lead-actor skills of Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell.

Lastly, there are not one but two films that are musts for anyone who cares about French food. The Taste of Things is a 19th-century story with Juliette Binoche as an indispensable cook for a legendary chef, while Menus Plaisirs — Les Troisgros is Frederick Wiseman’s four-hour documentary about a Parisian restaurant with three Michelin stars.

Both pieces drill deep into the details of preparing classic French cuisine, and they cap a delectable holiday season. l

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It says a lot about how good 2023 was for gaming that a game as excellent as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Nintendo Switch) has serious competition for the title of Game of the Year. Perhaps its biggest competition is Baldur’s Gate 3 (PC, PS5, mac0S, Xbox Series X|S). Taking the classic Dungeons and Dragons formula and wrapping it in a deep, branching story with memorable characters, Baldur’s Gate 3 is perfect for

HOLIDAYS 2023 fwweekly.com

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An incredible year for gaming means a perfect pick for just about every gamer on your list.

those wanting to get lost in a fantasy world alone or with friends. As for Zelda, if someone you know has a Switch and hasn’t played TotK, with its excellent combat and machine-building, it’s the perfect gift.

And even in its waning years, the Switch still delivered plenty of must-play games. After starring in one of the year’s biggest movies, Mario returned in Super Mario Wonder, bringing ever-changing gameplay to the series, making it a must-have for any fan of run-and-jump platformers. The Pikmin series also made a comeback. Pikmin 4 provided hours of fun for fans of raising armies of minuscule plant-people. Or, if someone you know wants something more strategic, there’s Fire Emblem Engage, with its grid-based map and permanent-death mechanics.

Nintendo even remade some old classics. There were wonderful remakes of Super Mario RPG, with its colorful oldschool RPG gameplay, and Metroid Prime,

open worlds, they don’t come much more fun to traverse than by swinging around a virtual New York City in Marvel’s SpiderMan 2 (PS5), letting players swap between Peter Parker and Miles Morales. Or if your gamer prefers history and stealth, there’s Assassin’s Creed Mirage (PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox One, Series X|S), which brought the series back to its stealth roots in 9th-century Baghdad.

Your science-fiction loving gamer may prefer a lightsaber to a wrist-blade, though. For them, there’s Star Wars Jedi: Survivor (PS5, PC, Xbox Series X|S).

Or they may prefer rooting through dungeons, in which case Diablo IV (PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S) should work, with its endlessly replayable dungeons and multiple character classes.

Indie games more than helped make this year great as well. Dave the Diver (macOS, PC, Switch) took players by storm with its mix of deep-sea diving and sushi restaurant management, but if your player prefers scarier waters, the Lovecraftian horrors of Dredge (PS4, PS5, PC, Switch, Xbox One, Series X|S) might be more appropriate. Hi-Fi Rush (PC, Xbox Series X|S) proves a great gift for those who love flashy visuals mixed with rhythm-based combat. And for gamers yearning for the RPGs of yesteryear, Sea of Stars (PS4, PS5, PC, Switch, Xbox One, Series X|S) is sure to win the day.

There’s no doubt we left out a bunch, but with so many great titles to choose from, you probably can’t go wrong with whatever you select. l

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Ar t by Cole Williams

STUFF

with its mix of first-person shooting and exploring.

On the opposite end of Nintendo’s wealth of titles was Microsoft, whose Xbox series X and S got only a few exclusive games of note. Bethesda’s Starfield gave players a huge galaxy to explore, adding ship-building and space combat to the familiar exploring and shooting gameplay. Then there’s Forza Motorsports, which rebooted the series to focus on realistic racing and high-fidelity graphics.

But Nintendo wasn’t the only one revisiting the past. Capcom remade the best Resident Evil game, Resident Evil 4 (PS4, PS5, ioS, Xbox Series X|S), a guaranteed to sate action and horror fans alike. And speaking of horror, long-awaited sequel Alan Wake 2 (PS5, PC, Xbox Series X|S) returned to bring scares back with its horror-author protagonist.

The fighting fan in your life also has reason to celebrate. Street Fighter 6 (PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox Series X|S) delivers stylish and complex fighting, and Mortal Kombat 1 (PS5, PC, Switch, Xbox Series X|S) gives both a rebooted timeline and an interesting kameo-fighter mechanic.

It also says a lot about 2023 that a new numbered Final Fantasy game could come out and be considered overlooked.

Final Fantasy XVI (PS5) gave the series an action-focused boost. On the other end of the fantasy spectrum was Hogwarts Legacy (PS4, PS5, PC, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S), perfect for anyone who dreamed of attending the magical school.

And if the gamer in your life loves

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Garage #3

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CINEMA

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Abby Cadabby and Big Bird close out A Swingin’ Sesame Street Celebration with “Sing.”

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Public television is alive and well, thanks to “contributions from viewers like you.” If you don’t already have a KERA Passport, donate now and start streaming culturally relevant, quality content like A Swingin’ Sesame Street Celebration. Featuring the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra led

by Wynton Marsalis, the show stars all the lovable characters, including Big Bird, Cookie Monster, Elmo, and

more, singing along. Become a KERA member and gain passport access with a gift of at least $5 a month or $60 annually at KERA.org/Passport/ Donate-and-Watch.

Eight Crazy Nights screens at the new Flix Brewhouse (416 N Hwy 287, Mansfield, 682-977-8001) 7:15pm Thu as part of the film tavern’s holiday movie series, 25 Days of Flixmas. In the Adam Sandler classic, a guy who hates the holidays goes on a rampage on the first night of Hanukkah and is arrested. His mobile home burns down, and he’s forced to move in with a local basketball referee with a “kvetchy sister.” No wonder he hates the holidays! By confronting the ghosts of the past and performing an act of selfless kindness, he overcomes his demons and learns to enjoy Hanukkah again.

Tickets are $7 at FlixBrewhouse.com/ Mansfield. (Read more about 25 Days of Flixmas in our ATE DAY8 a Week).

“Santa! I know him!” Yes, Buddy, we all do. The Christmas classic Elf

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According to a certain blue monster, “C” is for “cookie,” and that’s good enough for him. I, too, am a fan of the tasty round treats. In fact, I’ve written about two cookie-oriented events in ATE DAY8 a Week in Eats & Drinks. Here in the holidays edition of Night & Day, I’m covering Cinema, Comedy, Community, and Concerts.

As for Culture, Edward Brown is setting the Stage (see what I did there?) for noteworthy shows by local theater troupes in the piece that follows. Yes, let’s celebrate the … C-son.

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screens at Whiskey Ranch (2601 Whiskey Ranch Rd, Fort Worth, 817840-9140) 6pm Sat, Dec 16. Tickets to this 21+ event are $10 at FRDistilling. com and include your first cocktail.

You are welcome to bring chairs/blankets and spread Christmas cheer by singing loud for all to hear. (Christmas Vacation, our cover inspiration, screens here the night before.)

COMEDY

Fans of Seinfeld, come air your grievances at A Festivus Episode Trivia Night at Black Dog Arcade Wed, Dec 13.

comedian/magician Eric Eaton is doing an encore performance of his adults-only holiday show Naughty Not Nice at Hyena’s Dallas (5321 E Mockingbird Ln, 214-823-5233) 7pm Sun. (Eaton’s name may be familiar. He was on the TV show Masters of Illusion.)

Tickets start at $25 at Prekindle.com.

Fans of Seinfeld, rejoice! A Festivus Episode Trivia Night is 8pm Wed, Dec 13, at the Black Dog Retro Arcade inside The Improv (309 Curtis Mathes Way, Arlington). Celebrate “a Festivus for the rest of us” with continued on page 21

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Will Hearn’s Grand Ol’ Christmas Show rolls into the Ridglea Theater (6025 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, 817-738-9500) 4:30pm Sun. Featuring the Blue Water Highway Band and a troupe of Texas actors, comedians, and musicians, this musical comedy portrays a retro radio program “in front of a live studio audience” at the fictional N-O-E-L 1225 Radio Theater, punched up by gospel singers, an orchestra, and SNL-style sketches. Tickets start at $22 at Eventbrite.com.

Fresh off a side-splitting set at Hyena’s Nightclub Fort Worth,

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HOLIDAYS 2023

Night & Day

Ian Mac does his stand-up routine at Kava Culture Kava Bar near Alliance Sundays.

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COMMUNITY

Take photos with the big guy at the 20th Annual Breakfast with Santa and Holiday Market at Kennedale High School Saturday.

The Wildcat Band invites you to the 20th Annual Breakfast with Santa and Holiday Market at Kennedale High School (901 Wildcat Way, 817563-8100) 9am-2pm Sat. This community-wide event features live holiday continued on page 27

Sweet soul sensation Abraham Alexander plays the Majestic Theatre Thu, Dec 14.

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Slightly east, the holidays begin with the Arlington Holiday Lights Parade at Levitt Pavilion (100 W Abram St, 817-543-4301) on Saturday. The festivities start with the Miss Persis Elf Show at 3:45pm, followed by live music from Weekly Music Awards nominee September Moon with Hankins. The parade is at 6pm and ends at 7:15pm with a tree-lighting ceremony. Afterward, enjoy tunes spun

by DJ Gurrl while you take photos with Santa. All of the above is free of charge.

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an airing of grievances and feats of strength. You can play by yourself or in teams of up to six people. This event is free, but you must reserve a spot via Eventbrite.com.

Beyond the Santa cap he’s wearing on the cover as our makeshift Clark Griswold, the talented Ian Mac wears many hats. Comedian, family man, graphic artist, and former Weekly staffer are all on his resume. Now, he can add the title of podcaster, as his new GreatUnwashedPodcast.com has just gone live. See him perform standup comedy at Kava Culture Kava Bar (3529 Heritage Trace Pkwy, Ste 155, Fort Worth, 817-741-5469) 7pm-10pm every Sunday as part of the comedy night Ian Mac Presents: Better Than Booze, hosted by Dave Merriken.

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The Reid Cabaret Theatre Celebrates Five Seasons With the Opening of a New Lounge Just in Time for the Holidays

CONNECT WITH ART THROUGH COCKTAILS, CONVERSATIONS, AND CREATIVIT Y. Each month you’ll find something different—from

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Promotional Feature The Reid Cabaret Theatre celebrates its fifth season in 2023 after opening its doors in 2018. The idea for the Reid Cabaret, however, began over 15 years ago, when Casa Mañana President & Executive Producer Wally Jones was at a restaurant in his home state of North Carolina.

This particular restaurant had a separate bar area in the back that sat 60 and featured a small stage. Jones, who was Executive Producer at the North Carolina Theatre at the time, was struck with an idea for the unique space. “I knew the guys who owned the restaurant,” Jones recalled, “and I said, ‘Let’s put a small show in here.’” Once the owners agreed, the team sold tickets to the show combined with a dinner. The

Michelle Lauto (Actor 2) is happy to return to Casa Mañana in Christmas in the Movies after reprising her Jeff Awardwinning role in Spamilton earlier this year.

event immediately sold out. The first show featured the music of Sam Cooke, the next, a Frank Sinatra tribute – which also sold out.

Six months later, Wally Jones moved to Texas to lead Casa Mañana, with the success of the supper club-style theatrical experience still fresh in his mind. At the time, New York City’s 54 Below was in the works, along with similar theatres around the country. Jones was passionate about seeing a cabaret theatre come to fruition for Fort Worth audiences, a concept unlike anything the city offered at the time. In 2017, nearly ten years after Jones moved from Raleigh to Fort Worth, the time was right. Renovations began, and the original box office was turned into a small stage with the lobby continued on page 23

DECEMBER 14, 2023 | FREE | 5-8 P.M.

Art & Advocacy Celebrate the legacy of founder Ruth Carter Stevenson for what would have been her 100th birthday and raise a glass in tribute to Stevenson, who forever shaped the art world.

Cour tesy Casa Manana

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performances, artist talks, and unique tours to art making, music, and films.

Cour tesy MichelleLauto.com

HOLIDAYS 2023

LIVING LOCAL

Second Thursdays at the Carter is generously supported by the Louella Martin Foundation.

The next show in the completed Reid Cabaret Theatre is Christmas in the Movies, which runs now thru Sun, Dec 16. Tickets are available at secure.casamanana.org/ events/christmasmovies.

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Michael Schwitter (Actor 1) is making his Casa Mañana cast debut in Christmas in the Movies.

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space converted into a 70-seat cabaretstyle theatre.

Over the last five years, The Reid has presented shows featuring the music of artists like Ray Charles and Bob Dylan.

The night not only features incredible music but also gives the audience context behind the hits through compelling storytelling. Jones said that is a key part of the cabaret’s success. “Our shows are unique because there is a backstory to the actual music. It’s kind of like VH1 Behind the Music, except live,” he said.

“We’ve found our little niche – people love the music, but they always say they love the stories behind the music, also.”

Curtis Wiley, a New York resident and Broadway performer, often makes the trip down to Texas to headline shows at the Reid. Wiley dances, exclaims, and calls out to audience-members while on stage – and patrons often ask when he’ll be back. After starring in shows like You Send Me: The Music of Sam Cooke and Christmas with Nat and Natalie, Wiley is joining a quickly growing list of artists who are Reid Cabaret staples. “Anytime I get to be on stage at The Reid is a gift,” he said of his experiences. “The Reid Cabaret Theatre is home to me.”

Since its opening, shows at The Reid have consistently sold out. In 2022 work was done to expand the space from 70 to 94 seats, adding capacity while maintaining the intimate feel. Preserving the boutique feel was paramount when looking to the future of the Cabaret.

“Once it got popular, we said we gotta figure out a way to get more people in here, but we also heard people say, ‘Not too many more,’” said Jones.

The renovation and expansion of The Reid Cabaret Theatre demonstrates the profound impact the unique space has had on patrons since its opening. The

Curtis Wiley in a past production of Christmas with Nat & Natalie at Casa Manana’s Reid Cabaret.

HOLIDAYS 2023

Pin-Up Girls Christmas, the first show in the completed space, played to a sold-out crowd.

Casa Mañana is thrilled to hold the grand opening of The Reid Cabaret Theatre’s new Lounge on December 14, 2023, at 2pm. Mayor Mattie Parker, along with city council members, supporters and invited guests will attend, with a reception to follow. l

Cour tesy Casa Manana

Living Local

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performed by two touring companies.

Both the East and West Coast troupes are amazing. Tickets start at $59.75 at Ticketmaster.com for this concert by the East Coast contingency.

As part of their Deep in the Heart of Christmas shows, Emmy Award winners The Texas Tenors — former finalists on America’s Got Talent: The Champions — will perform at the Palace Theatre (300 S Main St, Grapevine, 817-410-3100) 7:30pm Mon-Wed, Dec 11-13, and 3pm Tue and Thu, Dec 12 and 14. Along with seasonal classics like “O Holy Night” and “Joy to the World,” the guys

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music and a holiday market with hundreds of handcrafted items for sale.

Admission is free. As for the pancake breakfast (or pizza lunch) with Santa, the cost is $10, with proceeds benefiting the Kennedale Wildcat Band. For more information, visit KHSBand. com/HolidayMarket.

The City of Irving would like to show you a good time. Visit Irving is getting into the holiday spirit by offering chances to win Irving-centric experiences and gifts. Now thru Tue, Dec 12, enter Irving’s 12 Days of Holiday Giving Contest to maybe go home with a staycation that includes holiday activities, dining, and more.

One winner will be randomly selected every day, and participants must enter daily. Prizes range in value from $450 to $7,200 each, totaling $15,000. Nice! For complete details on how to enter, visit IrvingTexas.com/12-Days-Giveaway.

will sing well-known hits from the American songbook like “You’ve Lost that Lovin’ Feelin’ ” and more. Tickets are $48 at GrapevineTexasUSA.com.

Wasn’t I just bragging about our snagging a show from Dallas?

Well, Big D has pilfered one of our Music Awards nominees. Hometown crooner Abraham Alexander plays the Majestic Theatre (1925 Elm St, Dallas 214-670-3687) 7pm Thu, Dec 14, with special guest Jackson Scribner. This holiday concert is Alexander’s only North Texas show before he heads out on tour after the first of the year.

Tickets start at $26 at Prekindle.com.

While you’re there, please stop by the merch table and pick up a copy of SEA/SONS. His new album would be a great Christmas gift for yours truly.

Vinyl, please. #JustSayin Grand Prairie’s Pentatonix make their annual pilgrimage to North Texas for a hometown holiday performance.

Pentatonix: The Most Wonderful Tour of the Year is 7pm Wed, Dec 20, at Dickies Arena (1911 Montgomery St, Fort Worth, 817-402-9000). Tickets start at $30 at Ticketmaster.com.

HOLIDAYS 2023

Night & Day

By Jennifer Bovee

CONCERTS

Trans-Siberian Orchestra typically plays Dallas this time of year, but not anymore.

The band will do its prog-rocking holiday thing at Dickie’s Arena Friday.

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C o u r t e s y Tr a n s - S i b e r i a n O r c h e s t r a

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Fort Worth has managed to steal a great holiday concert away from Dallas. Go, us! Trans-Siberian Orchestra brings its Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO to Dickies Arena (1911 Montgomery St, 817-402-9000) for one night only 7:30pm Fri. TSO is an offshoot of prog-rockers Savatage, who, after once writing a wildly popular Christmas song, were asked by their record label for an entire holiday album.

That successful body of work has progressed (pun intended!) over the years and is now a large-scale extravaganza

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HOLIDAYS 2023

STAGE Our slice of North Texas is delirious with holiday-themed shows.

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Whether you prefer your holiday tunes secular or sacred, many of the greatest songs ever penned revolve around this festive time of year. Along with perennial favorites like The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol, keep these local shows in mind as you fill out your holidayseason dance card.

Cour tesy Casa Mañana

Snowy Sizzle

Will the Herdmans learn to put their disruptive ways behind them for the good of the Christmas pageant?

With 1961’s Black Nativity, poet/playwright Langston Hughes reimagined the Nativity story with all-Black casts singing gospel classics, Christmas carols,

and original songs. For A Gospel Black Nativity at Jubilee Theatre (506 Main St, 817-338-4411), which celebrates its 43rd year performing works reflecting the

African-American experience, brilliant performers belt out soulful arrangements of familiar tunes. The first act follows the birth of Jesus in the manger while the continued on page 29

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MERRY CHRISTMAS

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Black Nativity

- a vibrant portrayal of the Nativity story, inspired by Langston Hughes and brought to life by a talented all-black cast with a thoughtfully curated selection of songs created specifically for the production that adds a unique and captivating dimension to this theatrical masterpiece.

NOVEMBER 24 TH - DECEMBER 23 RD

3925, 506 Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76102

Box Office 817.338.4411 www.jubileetheatre.org tickets@JubileeTheatre.org

HOLIDAYS 2023 C o u r t e s y D w i g h t V a s e l / Te x a s B o y s C h o i r

Texas’ premier boys choir performs at Broadway Baptist Church this month.

For more than 300 years, Handel’s Messiah has been a perennial favorite oratorio around the world. In the vocal and orchestral work, Handel quotes the King James Bible and sacred texts by Charles Jennens, the 18th-century librettist and a personal friend of Handel’s. Saturday’s performance at Bass Performance Hall (525 Commerce St, 817-212-4280), conducted by Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra associate conductor Taichi Fukumura, features vocalists Blythe Gaissert (mezzo-soprano), Madison Leonard (soprano), Matthew Plenk (tenor), and Efrain Solis (baritone). Visit FWSymphony.org.

One of the country’s most famous and venerable boys’ choirs has called Fort Worth home for several decades. The Texas Boys Choir is based at the Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts and tours and performs extensively. Their most popular events are the Christmas concerts. On Tue, Dec 19, Broadway Baptist Church (305 W Broadway Av, 817-3365761) hosts the boys for an evening of carols, nostalgic tunes, and new arrangements, all under the direction of Todd Prickett. This year’s lineup includes “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “We Three Kings,” and A Charlie Brown Christmas, among other popular sacred and secular works. The boys’ pristine, awardwinning vocals will be accompanied

Hailed as a best new play by both the L.A. Drama Critics Circle and American Theatre Critics Association in 2022, Poor Clare retells the story of St. Clare of Assisi, a relatable teenager in medieval Italy living a fashionable and materialistic life until she meets Francis, who teaches her the meaning of generosity.

Running thru the middle of December at Stage West (821 W Vickery Blvd, 817784-9378), Poor Clare, said the company’s executive director, Dana Schultes, is a prescient reminder that this time of year should be one for reflecting on the less fortunate and resolving to help them.

Visit StageWest.org.

Now through Sat, Dec 23, at Casa Mañana (3101 W Lancaster Av, 817-3322272), The Best Christmas Pageant Ever follows the story of the “worst kids in the history of the world.” The Herdmans are known for their bullying antics and chicanery. As with any good Christmas story, they find a path toward redemption when they sign up for a Christmas pageant (based on the lure of free snacks) and learn about working toward a bigger goal under the mentorship of play director Grace. Visit CasaManana.org.

Get ready to shake, rattle, and roll Saturday as award-winning Elvis tribute artist Al Joslin plays the Arlington Music Hall (224 N Center St, 817-226-4400).

Joslin, who has performed throughout the United States and overseas for the past 13 years, is famed for capturing The King’s voice, looks, and mannerisms. Visit ArlingtonMusicHall.net. l

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second takes place in a present-day Black church. The prerecorded soundtrack is colorful and complements the vocalists wonderfully. Visit JubileeTheatre.org.

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by pianist Kyung Hyun Kim and guest percussionists. Visit ArtsAcademics.org/ choirs/texas-boys-choir.

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Shop Local!

VINTERFINT The 2023 Holiday Collection at IKEA Promotional Feature Inspired by Scandinavian folklore and handicraft, the VINTERFINT 2023 collection at IKEA makes it easy to prepare for the holidays and create lasting memories. From table linen and tree ornaments to gift bags and wrapping paper, this collection has everything you need to make this holiday season fun and fuss-free.

Decorate in (Your) Style

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Decorating your home for the festive season should be inspired by your personality. Don’t worry about following a trend (unless it really inspires you) just experiment, and let your creativity shine.

Hosting a festive fika? Take a relaxed approach to setting the table. Mix a few old favourites with new holiday table

DECEMBER 16-17, 2023 SATURDAY 9am - 5pm

décor, and festive ornaments to create a style that’s uniquely you.

How to Dress a Christmas Tree

What kind of baubles. How many? Color coordinated or multicolor? Our advice?

Throw out the rulebook. It’s your tree, so decorate it in whatever way your heart desires. Maximalist, purist or somewhere in between? There’s no right or wrong way to do it.

STRÅLA

Whether you’re a maximalist, a minimalist or somewhere in between, nothing says Christmas like twinkling lights. We’re sure you’ll find favourites in the STRÅLA 2023 collection to make your holidays merry and bright. So go for one star or many, one string light or loads. There are no rules when it comes to lighting up the holidays. STRÅLA LED lighting chains are battery-operated so you can put them almost anywhere.

Place one on your mantlepiece, line skirting boards or frame your windows and mirrors. Or why not use a lighting chain to add a festive touch to the table for dinner parties. See where your imagination takes you.

Twinkle, Twinkle, Big Star

This year, why not add a new element to your seasonal decor by hanging a Swedish star in your window. At IKEA,

SUNDAY 10am - 4pm

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Will Rogers Center

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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3401 W. Lancaster Ave. Fort Worth, TX 76107

Admission: $10 214-635-2009 • lonestargunshows.com

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FOR THIS FALL & WINTER!

BEST OPTICAL SHOP WINNER FOR 2023! @PatrickOptical @Patrick_Optical Patrick Optical can help you with your style!

2255 8th Ave. 817.370.6118 www.patrickoptical.com

Cour tesy IKEA

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FIND YOUR STYLE

Let your personality shine with your holiday decor.

HOLIDAYS 2023 Cour tesy IKEA

Light up your holidays with items from the STRALA collection.

Swedish folk art and gives them a new life and a modern twist.

you can find decorations in all different shapes and sizes. Stars of course, but also garlands, pendant lamps and a whole lot more. What will you choose?

Why horses, fire trees and red apples?

They’re a little nod to our Swedish roots. VINTERFINT 2023 collection’s gift wrap rolls takes the characters, colors, patterns and shapes of traditional

Shop With IKEA Locally this Season

Cour tesy IKEA

However you choose to celebrate, IKEA can help make everything a little bit easier and more affordable.

See for yourself when you visit your local IKEA in Grand Prairie at 1000 IKEA Wy (888-888-4532). Explore our wide range of holiday decorations and gifts to create your perfect holiday celebration at IKEA.com/us/en/stores/ grand-prairie.

Gift giving made easy and affordable.

IKEA offers well-designed, functional, and affordable, high-quality home furnishing, produced with care for people and the environment. There are several companies with different owners, working under the IKEA Brand, all sharing the same vision: to create a better everyday life for the many people. IKEA was founded in Sweden in 1943.

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

Between social obligations, work stuff you need to finish, not to mention ticking off everything on your to-do list, the most wonderful time of the year is also the busiest. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to give themselves a gift this year and give themselves a break. There’s no such thing as the perfect holiday celebration, there’s only your perfect holiday celebration.

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The Holidays, All Wrapped Up

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Less Holiday Hassle, More Holiday Fun

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Craft beer, great food, gift ideas, and fantastic films are on the menu at Flix Brewhouse.

Top Events for Festive Foodie Fun New Year’s resolution time will be here soon enough. Meanwhile, the holidays are now, and with them comes ample opportunity to enjoy great food and booze.

To that end, here are our Top 8 ways to increase your caloric intake and pump up that Clausometer with a smile.

2.) From noon to 3pm Sun, it’s the annual Holiday Tea at The Londoner (5120 Hwy 121, Colleyville, 817-684-8810). Along with a pot of tea — or cup of milk or hot chocolate for the kids — you’ll enjoy a scone with clotted cream, plus assorted sandwiches, macarons, shortbread, orange cake or mince pie, and chocolate mousse or trifle. The cost is $37.50 per adult and $25 per child. RSVP is requested at TheLondonerColleyville.com/Tea. 3.) Going beyond a basic cookie exchange, Tanstaafl Pub (409 N Bowen Rd, Arlington, 817-460-9506) hosts its

5.) At McFly’s Pub (6104 LTJG Barnett Rd, Fort Worth, 817-744-8272), the Adult Cookie Decorating Contest is 8pm-11pm Wed, Dec 13. The entry fee is $1 per person, but the winner will receive the whole entry-fee pot as the prize at 10:30pm. All supplies will be provided, including the cookies. Use your winnings on drink specials, including $5 Crown-and-downs.

6.) Here are my three favorite ways to get your hands on some tamales. 1.) You can wait for your favorite #TamaleLady to magically appear at the bar right before closing time. 2.) You can buy some from Ibarra Tortilleria (1109 NW 25th St, Fort Worth, 817-625-6391), which serves up some of the best in town. Or 3.) you can learn to make them yourself. On Fri, Dec 15, at 6:30pm, head to Indulge FW inside 3rd Street Market (425 W 3rd St, Fort Worth, 817-585-1931) for Tamale 101. At this class, Jorge Alberto Coronado

7.) We’re not the only ones who love Christmas Vacation, the classic holiday film that inspired this week’s cover. You know, the one where Chevy Chase’s hapless Clark Griswold strives for the perfect family Christmas, but bad things keep happening, including the unexpected arrival of Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid) with his wife and kids (and dog and RV) and a less than optimal holiday “bonus” check. If you’re 21+ and have yet to see it this season, it screens 6pm Fri, Dec 15, at Whiskey Ranch (2601 Whiskey Ranch Rd, Fort Worth, 817-840-9140). Tickets are $10 at FRDistilling.com and include your first cocktail. You are welcome to bring a chair and blanket. It might get chilly! (Elf screens at Whiskey Ranch Sat, Dec 16.)

8.) On Sat, Dec 16, don your worst holiday jumper and head to West 7th for the annual Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl.

The folks at party company Downtown Crawlers invite you to “enjoy complimentary welcome shots and jolly good drink specials, dance to merry tunes, and compete in our costume contest for a chance to win wicked prizes.” Check-in is 3pm-6pm at the Backyard (1000 Foch St, 682-207-1186), then the party moves to Reservoir (1001 Foch St, 817-3340560) and Pour Decisions (2800 Bledsoe St, Ste 200, 682-203-0726), with an afterparty at Kung Fu Saloon (2818 Morton St, 817-873-8900) thru 11:30pm. Tickets start at $13 on Eventbrite.com.

By Jennifer Bovee

I dedicate this column to the Griswold Family Christmas. (Translation: See Christmas Vacation at Whiskey Ranch Sat, Dec 16.)

FO R T WO R T H W E E K LY

Make cookies and go to the bar (or vice versa) at Tanstaafl and McFly’s this month.

Cour tesy iMDB.com

Cour tesy iStock

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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1.) Now thru Mon, Dec 25, Flix Brewhouse (416 N Hwy 287, Mansfield, 682-977-8001) would like to reward you for your gift-giving efforts with a complimentary 2024 movie ticket for every $25 gift card purchased. Along with the screening of first-run and classic movies, this new theater serves up excellent food, cocktails, and craft beer brewed in-house.

Check things out for yourself during 25 Days of Flixmas, when the film tavern

shows a different classic holiday movie every day in December. With admission to each Flixmas show, you’ll receive a scratch-off ticket for a chance to win special prizes, including free movies for a year. Reserve seats at FlixBrewhouse. com/Events/Flix-Picks.

4.) Enjoy the Mexican Christmas Beer Dinner at Funky Picnic Brewery & Cafe (401 Bryan Av, Ste 117, Fort Worth, 817-708-2739), with five courses of food, each with beer pairings, at 7pm Mon, Dec 11. The menu includes il pozole rojo (pork stew), tamales, bacaloa a la Vizcaina (cod stew), mixiote de pollo (chicken and rice), and pumpkin empanadas served with champurrado. Tickets are $83 at TicketTailor.com and already include gratuity.

of Coronado Commissary will teach you how to assemble, fill, and cook Peruvianinspired chicken-and-olive tamales with aji amarillo cream sauce from scratch.

Registration is $89 at IndulgeFW.com.

HOLIDAYS 2023

first Sweets Swap 4pm Sun, and you can bring any sweet treats you like, including brownies, candies, cookies, cupcakes, and more. Treats must be homemade.

Along with three dozen or more treats, also bring printouts of the recipe to share. Christmas attire is encouraged.

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HOLIDAYS 2023

GIOVANNI’S I TA L I A N K I T C H E N

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY RESERVATIONS CATERING AVAILABLE 5733 crowley rd • fort worth tx 76134

FO R T WO R T H W E E K LY

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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817.551.3713 | GIOVANNISFW.COM

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HOLIDAYS 2023

EATS & drinks Ho-HoHomemade Cocktails Whip up some holiday hooch sure to warm the hearts of even the Grinchiest guests.

B Y C H R I S T I N A B E R G E R A N D E D W A R D B R O W N

Nos Encontramos en Medio (Meet in the Middle)

1 1/2 oz La Pulga Blanco 1 oz coconut cream 1/2 oz Piloncillo syrup 1/2 oz mineral water 1/4 oz lime juice 3 dashes Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 1 dash Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters 1 dash The Cocktail Experiment Black Pepper Bitters 1 dash smoked saline continued on page 37

Indulge your inner child with s’more and s’more of this boozy take on the classic Christmas and fireside treat.

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Cour tesy TX Whiskey

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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Rather than getting Blitzened at the office holiday party and potentially mistaking that one awful co-worker for the hall that needs decking, bring the party home and play Santa’s Little Mixologist. These festive winter warmers from a few local establishments will not only redden your nose but also get you good and holidazed, just in time for those pesky out-of-town relatives to darken your doorstep.

Don Artemio bar manager Pam Moncrief declares that Nos Encontramos en Medio (Meet in the Middle) is the perfect winter libation and pairs well with any of her restaurant’s Mexican offerings. She says once the ingredients are ready in a shaker, “Shake very hard with lots of ice for eight seconds. Strain into a double Old Fashioned glass, or any 12-oz rocks glass, and pack with ice.

Garnish with a dehydrated lime peel.”

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DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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HOLIDAYS 2023

HOLIDAYS 2023 Cour tesy Blackland Distiller y

With three equal parts gin, creme, and heavy cream, Alexander’s Sister is easy to prep and serve to your holiday guests.

Earlier this year, Blackland Distillery released Prairie Gold (a 50% ABV bourbon whiskey), adding to an award-winning portfolio. While sales of Blackland’s Texas Pecan Brown Sugar Bourbon spike this chilly time of year, keep the Foundry District distillery’s gin in mind when concocting those festive spirits. Once the three ingredients of Alexander’s Sister are placed in a shaker, mix with ice, shake, and strain into a Nick & Nora glass. Garnish with a peppermint rim.

Alexander’s Sister 1 oz Blackland Gin 1 oz Creme de Menthe 1 oz heavy cream

Grinch Mint Martini 1 oz RumChata 1 oz Smirnoff vodka 1 oz Creme de Menthe 5 oz mint tea

Baby, it’s cold outside — but you certainly won’t be with these cheek-warmers that’ll have your guests wondering, “Say, what’s in this drink?” To that, simply raise your glass and give ’em a jolly ol’ wink and a smile. l

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

TX Whiskey, thanks to its famed blend of vanilla, banana, and caramel notes, makes for the perfect base for your yuletide cocktails. For this custom recipe shared by the good folks at Firestone & Robertson Distilling Company, start by rimming a glass of your choice in graham cracker dust. Drizzle in chocolate sauce and pour in the TX Whiskey and hot chocolate mixture. Top with marshmallows and additional graham crackers.

Fort Worth’s popular new gay bar Jackie O’s offers affordable cocktails that won’t

Cour tesy Jackie O’s

TX S’mores

2 parts TX Whiskey 3-4 parts hot chocolate Graham crackers Marshmallows Chocolate sauce

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continued from page 35

take more than a few minutes to prepare.

This mean-green martini is minty and refreshing, and the process is as simple as a mix and a shake (not stir). Combine the ingredients with ice in a shaker and do as the name of the device implies.

Jackie O’s minty martini (shown right) is sure to chase away your inner-Grinch.

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Eats & Drinks

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DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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HOLIDAYS 2023

HOLIDAYS 2023

Short Answer: Just say “no” to chocolate and “maybe” to pumpkin.

C o u r t e s y Fa c e b o o k

The Full Scoop: Chocolate contains both caffeine and theobromine. If your pet consumes anything either in it, these chemicals can speed up the heart rate, stimulate their nervous systems, and cause them to become very ill. It all depends on the type of chocolate and the amount. On average, a concerning dose of chocolate is approximately 1 oz per lb of body weight. Since an average milk chocolate bar is 1.55

Consuming a small crumb of chocolate cake/cookie or a very small piece of a chocolate bar, on the other hand, probably won’t kill your pet, especially if it is a larger breed. If your pet has consumed chocolate, contact your vet; if that’s not an option, contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-213-6680 for advice.

Pumpkin can be a superfood for your pets. It contains essential micronutrients and fiber that dogs and cats need.

It’s a natural stomach soother and helps remove excess water in their digestive tracts. While a great additive to a pet’s diet, remember that you CAN have too much of a good thing. Consult your vet for dosing to avoid harmful effects.

Canned pumpkin is the easiest answer.

If you’re going with fresh, remove the seeds before using and bake them separately for “treats.” You can also find fun recipes for your furry loved ones at AKC.org or Rover.com.

Do you have questions of your own?

Please email CritterCorner@fwweekly.com.

ShawsPawsPetCare.com 817-296-1769 (call/text)

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Question: I know dogs and cats can’t eat chocolate.

What should you do if they accidentally get into the Halloween candy? And, are there some holiday treats that they CAN eat? -Christmas Carol

ounces or so, consuming even one chocolate bar can have serious consequences, especially for our smaller friends.

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

Guest contributor Shawna Gibson from SHAW’S Paws Pet Services (@FetchPetSit, 817-296-1769) has been caring for their own (and other people’s) furkids for more than 14 years. Ever since our second annual Creature Comforts edition hit the stands back in August, we’ve been publishing her answers to your Critter Corrner questions in a Q&A format. (Think: Dear Abby.) Here’s some info about pumpkins for holiday season.

This holiday season, just say “no” to chocolate and “yes” to pumpkin for treats for your furry loved ones.

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Promotional Feature

Cour tesy iStock

Sweets For Your Sweet Pup? Yes and No.

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HOLIDAYS 2023 fwweekly.com DECEMBER 6-12, 2023 FO R T WO R T H W E E K LY 40

Happy Hour at the Kimbell Café Fridays, 5–7 pm Enjoy live music and a selection of beverages and snacks available for purchase. Members receive a 10% discount on beverages during happy hours.

3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, Texas kimbellart.org | 817-332-8451

A Very Itchy Christmas 2 features Jeff Zero & His Own Private Universe, Music Awards nominee Itchy Richie & The Burnin’ Sensations, and Question Begger at Growl Records (509 E Abram St, Arlington, 682-252-7639) at 8pm.

Admission is $10.

Whiskey Christmas features The Mullens, The Prof. Fuzz 63, Lannie Flowers, and Music Awards nominees The Troumatics at The Cicada (1002 S Main St, Fort Worth, @The_Cicada_ FTW) at 8pm. Admission is $10.

Sounds December Gigs: Who’s Playing Where Over the Holidays There are a lot of holiday-themed cultural events this month, but don’t forget your local musos. Plus, merch booths are fantastic places for gifts.

Sat, Dec 16

The Breakdown Before Christmas features Upon a Burning Body with Dispositions, Foxcatcher, Lockjaw, and Renatu at Big Rob’s Texas (13930 Trinity Blvd, Fort Worth, 817-3551234) at 7pm. Tickets are $30 at ThirdStringProductions.com.

Christmas from the Sanctuary features Maylee Thomas-Fuller and Andy Timmons performing songs from their Christmas album Here Comes the Son at the Guitar Sanctuary (6633 Virginia Pkwy, McKinney, 972-540-6420) at 7pm.

Tickets start at $25 at ShowClix.com.

An Evening with Midlake features

an opening set by the Midlake Jazz Trio performing Vince Guaraldi’s A Charlie Brown Christmas followed by a full Midlake show at Tulips FTW (112 St. Louis Av, Fort Worth, 817-367-9798) at 8pm. Tickets are $25 at Prekindle.com.

The Mele Kalikimake Annual Christmas Party features Avant-Garde/ Experimental Music Awards nominee The Go-Go Rillas at 4 Kahunas Tike Lounge (506 E Division St, Ste 160, Arlington, 682-276-6097) at 8pm. There is no cost to attend.

A Very Hoochie Christmas features Chattahoochee Music covering

HOLIDAYS 2023

CrossTown

Fri, Dec 15

continued on page 42

Sat, Dec 9

Arlington Christmas Parade kicks off with a set by Music Awards Country nominee September Moon at Levitt Pavilion (100 W Abrams St, Arlington, 817-543-4308) at 5pm. Following the parade, there will be a tree lighting at the Levitt. There is no cost to attend.

Holiday Hoopla features the Old 97’s at Longhorn Ballroom (216 Corinth St, Dallas, 214-272-8346) at 6:30pm.

Tickets start at $34 on Eventbrite.com.

The Merry Dickmas Show features Music Awards Tribute nominees The Dick Beldings at O’Shea’s Bar & Grill (310 Grapevine Hwy, Hurst, 817-5774006) at 9pm. There is no cost to attend.

Thu, Dec 14

Midlake will open for themselves as the Midlake Jazz Trio performing Vince Guaraldi’s A Charlie Brown Christmas before smooth-rocking Tulips FTW Sat, Dec 16.

FO R T WO R T H W E E K LY

Cour tesy Analog Planet

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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A Cody Jinks Christmas features Cody Jinks, Bryan Martin, Josh Morningstar, and Tennessee Jet at Billy Bob’s Texas (2520 Rodeo Plz, Fort Worth, 817-6247117) at 9pm. Tickets start at $40 at BillyBobsTexas.com.

A Very Twisted Christmas features Edge of Insanity, Vein, and From Then On at Sundown at Granada (3520 Greenville Av, Dallas, 214-823-8305) at 9pm. Admission is $15.

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HOLIDAYS 2023

Gather ’round the Old 97’s for Holiday Hoopla at Longhorn Ballroom Saturday.

Crosstown Sounds

Av, Dallas, 214-823-8305) at 9:30pm.

Tickets are $15 at Prekindle.com.

Xmas Pop-Punk Nite features Van Full of Nuns covering Blink-182, Fall Out Boy, My Chemical Romance, Sum 41, and more at Granada Theater (3524 Greenville Av, Dallas, 214-824-9933).

Tickets start at $15 at Prekindle.com.

continued from page 41

’90s country songs at Magnolia Motor Lounge (3803 Southwest Blvd, Fort Worth 817-332-3344). Admission is $15.

Sun, Dec 17

Sun, Dec 31

The 2023 Fort Worth Weekly Music Awards will take place at the Ridglea Theater (6025 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, 817-738-9500) today. More details to follow. For now, save the date!

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Xmas with Friends Thrash Metal Party features Silvertongue Devil, Chemicaust, Electric Vengeance, KTCM, and Serpent Priest at Big Rob’s Texas (13930 Trinity Blvd, Fort Worth, 817-355-1234) at 7pm.

Admission is $12.

Sat, Dec 23

The Ugly Sweater Show features ISHI at Sundown at Granada (3520 Greenville

Cour tesy Facebook

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DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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Fri, Dec 22

Enjoy a Hawaiian holiday party at 4 Kahunas Sat, Dec 16.

Forgotten Space features Stu Allen covering the Grateful Dead at Granada Theater (3524 Greenville Av, Dallas, 214-824-9933) at 8pm. Tickets start at $35 at Prekindle.com.

Lava New Year’s Eve Bash features tribute band Infinite Journey: The Music of Journey and DJ Yuna at Lava Cantina (5805 Grandscape Blvd, The Colony, 214-618-6893). Tickets start at $25 at Eventbrite.com and include a champagne toast at midnight.

NYE Live! features Bourgeous at Texas Live! (1650 E Randol Mill Rd, Arlington, 817-852-6688) at 8pm.

Tickets that include entry to the party, a champagne toast, swag, and access to all the venues within the building start at $60 at AXS.com.

NYE with Squeezebox features the Squeezebox Bandits at The Post at River East (2925 Race St, Fort Worth, 817-9458890) at 10pm. Admission is $33 and includes complimentary champagne for the midnight toast and breakfast tacos.

Rockin’ in the New Year features Music Awards Tribute nominee Poo Live Crew at Birdie’s Social Club (2736 W 6th St, Fort Worth, @BirdiesSocialClub) at 9pm. Tickets start at $10 at Prekindle.com.

By Jennifer Bovee

B Y P A T R I C K H I G G I N S A N D S T E V E S T E W A R D

Cour tesy Republic

This time of year, it’s common to be spending your drive time dodging the crimson specter of Mariah Carey’s holiday anthem or the absolute bludgeoning that is The Eagles’ “Please Come Home for Christmas” on the radio. Thankfully, there are countless options to keep that nauseating, stereotypical holiday dreck at bay. If you’re not too busy this season spending your listening time juicing the play count of The Pogues’ classic “Fairytale of New York” to deservedly honor recently deceased Irish singersongwriter Shane MacGowan, may we offer some surrogate tuneage? While it may be too late for these tracks to knock off Barbie’s “I’m Just Ken” from the top spot in your Spotify Wrapped, they’re certainly at the tops of our respective wish lists.

The new album from “Super Freaky Girl” Nicki Minaj is one we’re really looking forward to.

HOLIDAYS 2023

Pop-rock quintet the Jaybirds also have an EP of Christmas tunes out soon.

The winners of Best Song at last year’s Weekly Music Awards for “Honey Bee” look to apply their slick pop sheen to some cheerful yuletide vibes. There’s “a little work left to do on one song,” said lead singer Michael Edgar, but the short player should be out in plenty of time to enjoy a cup (or five) of eggnog by.

It’s only fitting that singer-songwriter Clint Niosi plans to release a new track Thursday about the winter solstice. His warm baritone and emotive guitar playing always seem to bring to mind the desolate beauty of a barren snow-covered hill reflecting the moonlight on a cold, dark night. “Over the Light,” he said, is “a song about the battle between light and darkness.”

Country folk singer Jessi England went into The Finishing School studio this spring to begin tracking her debut album. Working with a full band, including guitarist/keyboardist John Calvin Abney (Jacob Furr, Daniel Markham), the songstress has been excited with the results. Despite the title of “Christmas Eyes,” the debut single from these sessions is “not a Christmas song,” England said. Revisions on mastering are underway now, but she hopes to release the single before the holiday.

If there’s a Fort Worth artist most like Peter Gabriel, it has to be Nathan Brown. The genre-defying musician celebrates his 50th birthday on Saturday, and to celebrate, he’s releasing a new album under the name Nahzen. Carillon is nine tracks of Brown’s intriguing synth-layered abstractions. continued on page 44

RIDGLE A THE ATER SAT 12/9 AMERICAN AQUARIUM WITH LANCE ROARK SUN 12/10 THE GRAND OL’ CHRISTMAS SHOW

WITH BLUE WATER HIGHWAY

RIDGLE A ROOM

FRI ANIME FRONTIER AFTER PARTY 12/8 KAWAII FRIENDS HOLIDAY RAVE

SAT ANIME FRONTIER PRESENTS: ANNIE & RUCKUS’ 12/9 LATE NIGHT HOEDOWN

FRI 1 0 0 S M O K E S 12/22 W/GUEST STERLING ELZA

RIDGLE A LOUNGE FRI 12/8

LIVE MUSIC

SAT 12/9 GUITARIST MICHAEL WALKER

HOLIDAY CONCERT SAT 12/16 HOLIDAY MUSIC W/ SAXOPHONIST VANDELL ANDREW FRI 12/29 LUCYLUVSFUR ACOUSTIC SET

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Here’s a peek at some new, often holidaysinspired music we hope to find beneath our tree.

In taking on Ian Dury & The Blockheads’ “Sex, Drugs, and Rock ’n’ Roll,” raucous alt-rockers Itchy Richie & The Burnin’ Sensations deliver a debaucherous ode to the holy trinity of vices. Due out Dec 22, it’s a classic punk anthem and a perfect track to get the Burnin’ Sensations treatment.

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

Sounds of the Season

FO R T WO R T H W E E K LY

MUSIC

Singer-songwriter Cameron Smith is hard at work on the follow-up to Shine, last year’s moving tribute to his friend, the late visual artist Jeremy Joel. In between sessions at Blackstone Recording Studio, Smith took the time to record an EP of holiday songs. Debuting last week, the first is a lovely cover of John Prine’s “Christmas in Prison.” If it’s any indication of the completed work to come, listeners are promised another collection of thoughtful and tender songcraft from one of Fort Worth’s most prolific songsmiths.

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continued from page 43

Adjusting our telescope to take a peek outside Fort Worth, there are some other tunes we hope to find beneath our tree, beginning with the most obvious choice: Nicki Minaj. Five years after her most recent album and 13 years after her landmark Pink Friday, the undisputed Queen of Rap finally releases the LP she’s been teasing for over a damn year. Two singles — the Rick James homage “Super Freaky Girl” and the foe-scorching diss track “Red Ruby da Sleaze” — have previewed Pink Friday 2. Minaj’s panache and raunch, her percussive flow, and her vicious punchlines are always welcome jolts to your brain. They’re the lyrical equivalent of getting drunk and high with your friends and zapping each other with a stun gun. An experience that, like Nicki Minaj herself, is hilarious, outrageous, and probably kind of dangerous.

Out Thursday.

FO R T WO R T H W E E K LY

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

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A random musical resurrection of sorts occurred last week as Minor Threat put out the Out of Step Outtakes EP. The collection contains unreleased

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tracks from the hardcore pioneers’ final recording session for the material that would make up 1983’s seminal Out of Step. It feels like a vital listen born of nostalgia for a time when the music you heard was either what was on the radio or what you bought at a store. The three songs — a rework of “In My Eyes,” along with “Filler” plus a mostly instrumental track given the working title “Addams Family” — sound better than they might have when they were recorded back in the early ’80s but lose none of their edge. ’Tis the season for legacy artists to rerecord and release albums of previously recorded material. Dolly Parton just dropped one of these, which is essentially two-and-a-half hours of her doing covers, and Neil Young, like Minor Threat, will release an album of new versions of deep cuts spanning his entire career. Before and After includes material from Buffalo Springfield’s self-titled 1966 debut to Barn, his 41st album, released in 2021.

Young — in absolutely on-brand, Neil Youngian fashion — insists that LP is meant to be listened to as a whole piece, specifically, as he told American Songwriter, as a “music montage with no beginnings or endings.” Whatever you say, Neil. We’re here for it. Also out Thursday. l

Cour tesy Facebook

HOLIDAYS 2023

Music

Fort Worth singer-songwriter Cameron Smith gets into the holiday spirit with a tender cover of John Prine’s “Christmas in Prison.”

A favorite holiday movie trope is the one where the mean-spirited, wealthy businessman has his hardened heart thawed by the spirit of Christmas and, imbued with newfound humility, is moved to acts of generosity toward his virtuous and financially destitute laborers. Seems our own sleepy winter town could use a bit of that Dickensian altruism right now. As has been noted recently in social media and in print in these very pages, it seems the wholesome purveyors of live music in The Fort have hit particularly hard times. Rent continues to skyrocket, and with attendance ever on the decline, local live music is trouble. With the recent closure of the much-beloved Lola’s and the forthcoming shuttering of the Near Southside’s Twilite Lounge and with rumors swirling like so many snowflakes of other venues potentially following suit — or abandoning live, original music altogether to avoid similar straitened circumstances — musicians, and the stages they perform on, need our patronage now more than ever.

While seeing musos ply their craft in 3D life continues to be our personal favorite pastime, not to mention a wonderful way to shake up the holidaze, the clubs and the players who occupy them could use some more of you to come along with us. Thankfully, because this town rules, there are plenty of reasons for you to do so beyond simple yuletide-inspired charity.

We’ve highlighted just a handful of local and touring gigs to get you outta da house and through the rest of 2023.

Get your New Year’s Eve fun started early with Denton math-rockers Dome Dwellers, post-punks FIT, the slack-rocking Joe Gorgeous, and melody mavens Darstar on Thu, Dec 28, at Tulips FTW (112 St. Louis Av, 817-367-9798). No word yet on cover charge or ticket prices.

On Fri, Dec 15, The Cicada (1002 S Main St, 817-504-8986) hosts Dallas’ Iggy Poppin’ Mullens with a trio of locals opening: The Prof. Fuzz ’63, Lannie Flowers, and The Troumatics. No word yet on cover charge or ticket prices.

If Dimebag Darrell’s Black Tooth Grin is your shot of choice, you’ll no doubt be in great company on Sunday at Haltom Theater (5601 Belknap St, 682-250-5678) when NoiseROT’s FWxHC FEST goes down. Cutthroat.TX, Harcourt, and Cold Case will headline this free event of nearly two dozen hardcore outfits on two stages.

On Friday, Dickie’s Arena (1911 Montgomery St, 817-402-9000), fresh off its recognition as the year’s most profitable 10,000-15,000-capacity venue in the world, brings us a holiday-season staple: Trans-Siberian Orchestra and their signature Joe Satriani-influenced Christmas music. Tickets start at $50, and while that’s more than reasonable for the prog-rock ensemble’s phenomenal virtuosity and electrifying stage show, it also ensures the arena will continue to outpace the national and local competition at the box office.

Nashville provocateurs Thelma & The Sleaze will bring their queer-woman twist on trashy Southern rock to Tulips on Wed, Dec 13. Tagging along will be fellow Nashvilleans VOLK. Phantomelo and Glüestick will open. Tickets start at $18.

On Sat, Dec 30, Billy Bob’s Texas (2520 Rodeo Plz, 817-624-7117) welcomes the Turnpike Troubadours, Western Swingers from Oklahoma whose signature synthesis of Woody Guthrie and Waylen Jennings gets boots scootin’ all night long. Tickets start at $92. l

PRESSURE TESTER

Quality Testers pressurize metal pipe stations administering air/nitrogen or hydrostatic testing depending on blueprint specifications, durations, and test pressure, using hand tools and impacts to cap off openings logging all passes and rejecting all fails

INDUSTRIAL PAINTER

The Painter must be proficient in surface cleaning, preparation and Sandblasting in order to accomplish assigned tasks, producing work of a high standard in accordance with Company’s policies and procedures.

IN CORSICANA, TX: INDUSTRIAL MECHANIC

The Mechanic will be responsible for repairing and refurbishing fusion equipment in a distribution plant or field environment and may also be asked to work in the Shipping & Receiving area as needed. Responsibilities there may include packing and loading customer orders of piping, valves, and fusion equipment, completing daily cycle counts, and receiving of product or equipment from vendors.

FABRICATOR

Fabricators are responsible for fabricating and assembling polyethylene pipe to create a variety of customized structures such as: fittings, valves, T’s, Y’s, elbows, aqua shields, geothermal vaults, manholes, dual containment units, pumps, gas aeration lines and similar structures that meet customer specifications.

AUTOMATION/MECHATRONICS ENGINEER

The Engineer is responsible for optimization of current manufacturing processes and implementation of new manufacturing processes utilizing automated equipment, Robotic, CNC, and other automated manufacturing equipment specification, procurement, implementation and support, designing and building new equipment, maintaining and improving existing equipment, documenting and organizing all projects worked on.

MACHINE OPERATOR

The Machine Operator will fabricate and assemble polyethylene pipe (HDPE) to create a variety of customized structures such as; fittings, valves, T’s, Y’s, elbows, aqua-shields, geothermal vaults, manholes, dual containment units, pumps, gas aeration lines and similar structures that meet customer specifications.

At ISCO, we put high value on appreciation and respect, and provide you with an opportunity to really make a difference. ISCO is a family owned and operated company born and raised in Louisville, KY that is focused on our team members’ growth. In addition to a standard benefits package of medical/dental/vision, ISCO offers a 6% match on retirement! ISCO Industries is an end-to-end piping solutions provider that specializes in HDPE, working with leading edge technology that makes us a market leader.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

For more information on these positions or to apply go to:

isco-pipe.com

fwweekly.com

B Y P A T R I C K H I G G I N S A N D J U A N R . G O V E A

On Thursday at Tulips, Matt Tedder brings his burgeoning country stuff to the stage along with the danceable grooves of Midnight Thirty and the guitar-tastic theatrics of The Grae. Should make for a great night of twangy, bluesy, Texas-style jam-rock. Tickets are $10.

ENTRY LEVEL WELDER

Welders fit and weld natural gas delivery products built from raw materials according to blue print specifications in accordance with API 1104 certification standards and procedures.

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

This holiday season boasts several shows sure to grow your Grinch-ian heart at least three sizes.

Nashville provocateurs Thelma & The Sleaze will bring their queer-woman twist on trashy Southern rock to Tulips FTW on Wed, Dec 13.

FO R T WO R T H W E E K LY

Creatures Stirring

Cour tesy the ar tist

MUSIC

NOW HIRING MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN CEDAR HILL, TX

HOLIDAYS 2023

CLASSIFIEDS

employment public notices / services

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HOLIDAYS 2023

HISTORIC RIDGLEA THEATER

Best Time For Massage? Now!

Hannah in Hurst, professional location, no outcalls.

(MT#4797)

817-590-2257

THE RIDGLEA is three great venues within one historic Fort Worth landmark. RIDGLEA THEATER has been restored to its authentic allure, recovering unique Spanish-Mediterranean elements. It is ideal for large audiences and special events. RIDGLEA ROOM and RIDGLEA LOUNGE have been making some of their own history, as connected adjuncts to RIDGLEA THEATER, or hosting their own smaller shows and gatherings.

More at theRidglea.com

EMPLOYMENT

American Airlines, Inc. has openings in Ft. Worth, TX for: Sr. Architect, IT Applications (Ref. 2255): Resp for provid’g the tech direction & leadership in the architecture, design, developm’t, & deploym’t of solutions for Premium Services Product. Sr. Developer (Ref. 3026): Resp for utilize’g objectoriented developm’t tools to analyze, model, design, construct & test sw systems. Sr. Developer, IT Applications (Ref. 1975): Resp for maintain’g & enhanc’g exist’g enterprise services, apps, & platforms us’g domain driven design & test-driven developm’t.

To learn more or to apply send inquiries &/or resume to Gene Womack via email: Gene.Womack@aa.com.

Please include Ref # in subject line.

EMPLOYMENT

Road Maker Contractors, LLC - Senior Surveyor (Fort Worth, TX). Bachelor’s degree required in survey, engineering, natural resources or related fields, and 24 months experience as a land surveyor or survey engineer. Resume & cover letter to Ms. Marta Ferruses, HR Mgr, 3904 Sandshell Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76137

HOLIDAY TIME is TAMALE TIME!

Order yours from one of the BEST places in town.

Ibarra’s Tortilleria is located at 1109 Northwest 25th St in Fort Worth. Call or visit online today!

fwweekly.com

DECEMBER 6-12, 2023

The Gas Pipe, The GAS PIPE, THE GAS PIPE, your Peace Love & Smoke Headquarters

FO R T WO R T H W E E K LY

since 4/20/1970! SCORE a FREE GIFT on YOUR Birthday, FREE Scale Tuning and Lighter Refills on GAS PIPE goods, FREE Layaway, and all the safe, helpful service you expect from a 51 Years Young Joint. Plus, SCORE A FREE CBD HOLIDAZE GIFT With-A-Buy thru 12/31! Be Safe, Party Clean, Keep On Truckin’. More at thegaspipe.net

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Lots of name brand merchandise & antiques, tons of goodies and so many treasures that will catch your eye! Come out and see all your favorite vendors!

You’ll be glad you did!

4445 River Oaks Blvd Every Sat & Sun 9a-5p

STONE MACHINE ELECTRIC

Hear music awards metal nominees Stone Machine Electric on Friday at Three Links with Temptress, Destroyer of Light, and The Deep and check them out at StoneMachineElectric.net.

SUMMER DEAN

IbarrasTortilleria.com // 817-625-6391

Hear music awards country nominee Summer Dean at Magnolia Motor Lounge on Friday and check her out at SummerDeanMusic.com.

OX COMBINE

WANTED: GIRL SINGER

Hear music awards metal nominees Ox Combine Stone Machine Electric on Friday at Growl in Arlington with Hoaries, and Ruins Craft, and check them out at OxCombine.BandCamp.com.

PHANTOMELO

Hear pop band music awards nominees Phantomelo open for Thelma & The Sleaze along with Gluestick and VOLK at Tulips FTW. More about them at Phantomelo.com.

PLANNED PARENTHOOD Care. No matter what.

WeArePlannedParenthood.org

EMPLOYMENT

WAX • AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE • REFLEXOLOGY Introducing MEN’S FACIALS

gift certificates Call for details available! 469-661-4786

MT1310747

Training & Development Specialist: Unleashed Services LLC; Bedford, TX 76022. Maintain & improve Snapology Training & Orientation Prgm Policies, Procedures & Guidelines. Travel to our corporate location to dvlp, implmt & lead Snapology training prgms in the areas of business operations, sales, hiring & onboarding, supplies & curriculum mgmt, business bookkeeping & acctg using Quickbooks, legal considerations, fin’l reporting as well as training them in the franchise systems such as Wisetail /Snapology University, & our Ecommerce platform. Reqs: HS dipl. or foreign equiv deg, + 24 months of work exp as a Training & Dvlpmt Specialist, Training Manager, Franchise Manager, or Operations Manager. Reqs the following exp: 2 yrs of exp in customer service; 2 yrs of exp in hiring & onboarding; 2 yrs of exp in training managers & employees; 2 yrs of exp in fin’l reporting (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow Statement); 2 yrs of exp in the franchise industry; Exp using Microsoft Excel, Power Point, Power Bi, Quickbooks, Ecommerce systems, Wisetail, EMMA, Canva, Microsoft Teams, & Zoom. Frequent travel availability is reqd. Individual may work remotely from anywhere in the continental U.S. Travel to headquarters office in Bedford, TX reqd monthly, for periods of 5 days/trip. Travel to potential franchise conferences reqd 3 times/yr, for periods of 4 days/trip. Email CV to Apply: Nancy.

Bigley@unleashedbrands.com.

RIVER OAKS FLEA MARKET IS CATTLE BARN FLEA MARKET

Looking for paid commercial work? If you can sing as well as Miley Sirus or Megan Trainer, please email me ASAP at MusicDFW@yahoo.com.

NEED A FRIEND? Ronnie D. Long Bail Bonds

Immediate Jail Release 24 Hour Service. City, County, State and Federal Bonds. Located Minutes from Courts. 6004 Airport Freeway.

817-834-9894

RonnieDLongBailBonds.com Notice to Creditors

Letters of Independent Administration for the Estate of Gloria May Chariez issued on October 26, 2023, in cause 2023-PR01066-1, in the Probate Court Number One of Tarrant County, Texas, to Corinne Doris Williams. All persons having claims against the estate are required to submit them within the time and manner prescribed by law addressed as follows: Representative Estate of Gloria May Chairez c/o Matthew Hancock, Attorney 1908 Sutter Street Fort Worth TX 76107

A HOLIDAY TABLE

SPECTACULAR

Our stage is set for an exceptional holiday season. Get ready to serve up chef-prepared meals worthy of your table’s sitting ovation. With best-in-class mains, sides, and the trimmings all ready to heat in oven-ready trays, just worry about choosing what dessert you’ll serve as a sweet encore!

FORT WORTH 4651 WEST FREEWAY | 817-989-4700 SOUTHLAKE 1425 E. SOUTHLAKE BLVD. | 817-310-5600