Steve Murrin, unofficial “Mayor of the Stockyards,” and James Zametz, founder of the “Keep Fort Worth Funky” movement
Texas Health is committed to getting you moving again. A network of joint specialists on the medical staff of Texas Health hospitals use advanced technology to diagnose orthopedic injuries, conditions and diseases. They then determine a care plan that’s right for you—from non-surgical to total joint replacement. Working alongside them are experienced physical therapists and joint care coordinators, who help you kick joint pain to the curb and get you back to doing what you love. Take the Texas Health Joint Assessment. YourJointHealth.com
Roots and Rebels
Fort Worth has two distinct identities — Cowtown for its country-western roots and Funkytown for its recent windfall of creativity. As we discovered while talking to both old-timers and newcomers alike, the city is embracing both monikers — taking pride in the history, diversity, character, and everything else that makes us, uniquely, Fort Worth. by Rick Mauch
48
21 People and Things that Make Fort Worth Funky
With a growing creative class and an uptick in young entrepreneurs, we take a closer look at those who are driving our city’s change. by Rachael Lindley, Brian Kendall, and Malcolm Mayhew
61
Long Live Toadies
On the 25th anniversary of Rubberneck, the Toadies reminisce over the album that became an accidental hit and put the band — and Fort Worth — on the national stage. by Malcolm Mayhew
68
2019 Dream Home: Walsh
This contemporary hacienda is built to catch the perfect sunset. by Scott Nishimura
Influential Fort Worthian, Steve Murrin, defines his own brand of funky in our studio.
PHOTO BY OLAF GROWALD
Calling all foodies!
Fort Worth Magazine celebrates the local culinary scene by hosting the ultimate action-packed culinary competition of the year, the Top Chef Challenge.
Join chef host Jon Bonnell as four competing chefs battle it out to be crowned Fort Worth Magazine’s Top Chef. Watch the chefs cook while you participate in live auctions, sip on cocktails and grab a bite at this annual event.
Competing Chefs:
Jenna Kinard - 97 West, Hotel Drover
Steve Mitchell - Bistro 1013
Kobi Perdue - Paris 7th
Max Zubboli - Zeno’s on the Square
Wednesday, September 25 | 6-9 pm
River Ranch Stockyards | 500 NE 23rd St., Fort Worth
Purchase tickets: fwtx.com/top-chef-2019
Presenting Sponsor:
11
New-Look Amon Carter Set to Open Its Doors After three months in the dark, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art will reopen Sept. 14.
14
Fort Worthian Mansfield child actor Keith L. Williams talks about his not-so-innocent role in Seth Rogen’s “Good Boys.”
17
Cinéma Féminin A French filmmaker wants to see more women behind the camera. Next stop on her campaign: Fort Worth.
20
A Walk in Canyon Country Utah’s Capitol Reef had deeper lessons in store for the college kids who came to visit.
22
Guide to Fall Gallery Night There’s a lot of art going down on Sept. 7. This guide should make things a little less overwhelming.
28
Capital Investments Fall fashion calls us to work it like a boss.
eat
75
An Italian Oasis Tim Love’s new Italian spot is getting all the buzz for its al fresco ambiance, but does the food level with the locale?
78
The Feed Building makeovers give rise to new eateries downtown.
80
A Monster Pop-Up A culinary Frankenstein is building one beast of a kitchen in his backyard. And he’s inviting people over.
Snaps Man & Woman of the Year, Round Up, BeatLeukemia Ball
88
Things to Do in September The most wonderful stein of the year.
120. Thinking outside the box.
Steve and James
» James Zametz arrived for our cover photoshoot over 15 minutes early. It was such a contradiction to his easygoing, devil-may-care exterior that I thought of his punctuality as an act of defiance. So, we shot the shit for a bit while waiting for Steve Murrin.
It doesn’t take more than a few moments to realize Zametz, who created the “Keep Fort Worth Funky” campaign, is a self-effacing dude who deflects any credit and shuns the spotlight. Being on the cover of Fort Worth Magazine and my beginning my editor’s note with his name are undoubtedly things that will make him uncomfortable. He couldn’t understand why he should represent “Funkytown” on our cover. Funkytown and its objectives are far more than the work of one person, and Zametz, in all his humbleness, makes it seem as though all he did was create a sticker. “If not you, then who?” I asked in honest curiosity. I could see he wanted to roll out 25 different names, but he took mercy on me. I suspect he could see that I wanted it to be him, so he begrudgingly acquiesced. Murrin arrived a little late; the unofficial “Mayor of the Stockyards” has earned every right to arrive whenever he damn well pleases. And, to be honest, we were just stoked to have him in the office. He and Zametz had never met, and here we were trying to force sparks so we could capture “the photo.” In hindsight, I should’ve had the two meet for drinks beforehand. They were cordial but, initially, a little shy. We requested that the two men do a slight bromance hug. “I don’t do that on the first date,” Murrin said with eyes wide with fear that we would force such a thing.
Corrections? Comments? Concerns? Send to executive editor Brian Kendall at bkendall@fwtexas.com.
Happy Baggett: The Interview and Fall 2019 Dream Home
Best, COMING NEXT MONTH »
The two started chatting, Murrin about his history as a developer and Zametz about his advocacy for local businesses. With our overreaching shadows absent, the two hit it off and were clearly enjoying one another’s company. It was proof that forcing these two very different men to be at ease with one another was unnecessary. Like most Fort Worthians, they just got along. The outcome is what you see on the cover of this issue.
I don’t have a crystal ball, but I suspect seeing that image for the first time will forever remain one of the highlights of my career.
Brian Kendall Executive Editor
VOLUME 22, NUMBER 09, SEPTEMBER 2019
owner/publisher hal a. brown
associate publisher diane ayres
editorial
executive editor brian kendall
managing editor samantha calimbahin
online editor matt payne
contributing writers courtney dabney, jenny b. davis, rachael lindley, rick mauch, malcolm mayhew, scott nishimura copy editor sharon casseday
editorial interns courtni fields, krista simpson, madelaine woodhouse
art
creative director craig sylva
senior art director spray gleaves art director ayla haynes
advertising art director ed woolf
photographer olaf growald
creative intern courtney thompson
advertising director of sales mike waldum x151
advertising account supervisors gina burns-wigginton x150, marion c.
Whiskey, Beer, and Cats
Your choice topics of online conversation last month
Top Chef
Watch the chefs beh ind 97 West, Bistro 1013, Par is 7th, and Zeno’s on the Square go head-to-head in Fort Worth’s most heated battle of cul inary prowess Our Top Chef compet it ion takes place Sept 25 at R iver Ranch Stockyards Get t ickets now fwtx.com/best-top/top-chef
First Whataburger goes to the Yanks, now this! Stop the insanity!
-Chris Castillo
Just had it on draft. Strawberry [is] super strong up front, but that waffle stays strong on the back end. Almost a strawberry cookie-type finish. This is a good one but not for more than one pour at a time.
-Sydney Wells
Dream Home
We’re roll i ng out the welcome mat at our 2019 Dream Home Be our guest when the house opens for tours Sept 28 – Oct 20 T i ckets benef it a W i sh w ith W i ngs fwtx.com/dream-home-2019
Your Pics in Print
The last page of our magaz i ne i s yours If you’re a local photographer w ith an eye-catch i ng shot of Fort Worth, send it our way, and you could be featured i n our next i ssue fwtx.com/forms/photo-upload
What’s Online
V i sit fwtx .com for the full story.
» JPS to Prioritize Mental Health in Expansion Plans
Among JPS’s first priorities — two clinics that focus significantly on behavioral and mental health.
» IDEA Adds to Charter School Choices in Tarrant County
This semester, IDEA will add two new campuses — one in Haltom City and the other on Cherry Lane — increasing Greater Fort Worth’s charter choices.
» Get Ready for a Bird’s-Eye Concert View at Arlington’s Levitt Pavilion
The City of Arlington will tout a downtown hospitality center at its Levitt Pavilion in months to come. DIGITAL EDITION: The
Celica McCravey
Deborah Payne
Rebecca Ramirez
CITY | BUZZ |
BY MATT PAYNE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 »
After going dark for over three months, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art is set to reopen its doors to a revamped look on Sept. 14.
The museum building and galleries closed to the public in June in order to wrap up the building-enhancement project that began in October 2018. Renovations extend from the upper galleries to the museum’s first floor and campus, culminating in what the Amon Carter is calling a “total transformation of the visitor experience.”
“We are entering the beginning of a historic period of change at the museum. Through the support of our community, we are able to change the way our visitors experience our collection and our iconic building,” said Andrew J. Walker, executive director, in a news release. “We are excited to reopen our doors this fall and introduce the new Carter to our community through fun events and great art.”
Gallery spaces have been enhanced with new sight lines, moveable walls for configurable layouts, and lighting and hardwood flooring throughout the upstairs galleries. The photography vaults have also been expanded to allow for continual growth and preservation with advanced climate control.
HARRIS METHODIST STATS:
Survival AVERAGE
Relative survival 30 days after undergoing abdominal aortic aneurysm repair surgery, compared to other hospitals treating similar patients.
Prevention of prolonged hospitalizations EXCELLENT
How well the hospital prevents unusually long stays. Longer hospitalization may lead to or result from a complication.
Discharging patients to home AVERAGE
How often patients can go directly home from the hospital rather than being discharged to another facility. Most patients and families prefer recovery at home.
Readmission prevention AVERAGE
How well hospital keeps patients who had abdominal aortic aneurysm repair from being readmitted in the first 30 days after discharge.
Infection prevention AVERAGE
How well hospital prevents surgical infections in abdominal aortic aneurysm patients.
Number of patients VERY HIGH
Patient experience AVERAGE
Reflects opinions of surveyed inpatients about the overall quality of their stay.
Influenza immunization of workers NEARLY ALL
Percentage of health care personnel who received a timely vaccination during flu season.
Nurse staffing VERY HIGH
More nursing care per patient is associated with better outcomes and better patient experience.
How Good Is This Fort Worth Hospital? Try 15th in the State
BY MATT PAYNE
Ideally, the number of trips you make to the hospital are kept to a minimum. In reality, life happens, and there’s peace of mind in knowing Fort Worth and surrounding areas are home to some of the best facilities in the state, according to U.S. News & World Report.
U.S. News’ recently released Best Hospitals list for 2019 – 2020 had Fort Worth landing three hospitals among the top 20 in the state, with Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth ranking the highest at No. 15.
U.S. News evaluated more than 4,500 medical centers around the country. Measurables for the annual rankings include risk-adjusted survival and discharge-to-home rates, volume, and quality of nursing, among other care-related indicators.
Harris Methodist downtown, weighing in at No. 4 in the Fort WorthDallas region, is recognized as a “high performing” hospital, ranked as such in AAA repair, colon cancer surgery, COPD, and heart failure.
Among other high-ranking area facilities, Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center – Fort Worth and Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Southwest tied at No. 17. Baylor Scott & White rated highperforming in COPD, colon cancer surgery, and heart failure. Harris Methodist Southwest rated high-performing in COPD, hip replacement, and knee replacement.
“While Texas Health now reaches consumers through more than 350 points of access, hospitals remain vital to the core of our system. We’re proud that we provide exceptional hospital-based care,” said Barclay E. Berdan, CEO of Texas Health Resources, in a written statement. “North Texans know they’ll find high-quality care provided by the physicians, the nurses, and all members of the care team at our hospitals.”
A daylong, free-to-thepublic Party on the Porch will help ring in the reopening from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sept. 14, where attendees can enjoy live music over food truck fare and cash bars. Guests will also get a first look at the newly renovated space. Go to fwtx.com for more city news.
Martin House Brewing Company has buddied up with local brands to bring some interesting new flavors. In a collab with Melt Ice Creams, their new strawberry ice cream and waffle cone ale is made with strawberry puree and real waffle cones. If you think that’s weird, their partnership with Best Maid brings a sour pickle beer. Be forewarned: Martin House says each sip of this concoction tastes exactly like taking a swig from a jar of dills.
Keith L. Williams
Child actor
BY SAMANTHA CALIMBAHIN
Despite starring in a major Hollywood movie, scoring roles for TV, and appearing on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” just a week before coming to Fort Worth for his next interview, child actor Keith L. Williams is still very much a kid. He plays finger skateboards with his brother. He hates homework. His mother reminds him “fix your shirt” while he poses for a photo shoot.
But it’s all good. Williams says being a professional actor doesn’t make him feel any more grown up than anyone else his age, even after starring in “Good Boys” — a wildly inappropriate, R-rated comedy produced by Seth Rogen. The well-spoken, wisecracking 12-year-old from Mansfield says he’s looking forward to more acting gigs and a bigger career in show business — though right now, his sights are set on doing the normal-kid thing for a little while.
Q. You were just on “Jimmy Kimmel” a week before you came here, promoting “Good Boys.” What was that experience like?
A. It was really fun. I was really nervous at the start though. I didn’t know it was gonna go so fast, and a lot of the questions I was really prepared for, he didn’t ask. When the producer called, they asked stuff about me, so then Jimmy can ask different things. You get to hang out with a lot of the stars that are before you. Margot
Robbie, Leonardo DiCaprio — I was really starstruck. Especially Margot Robbie. Margot Robbie is a really good actress.
Q. What led to your big break acting in major Hollywood movies?
A. “The Last Man on Earth” [on Fox]. That was my biggest TV show. I auditioned one time, and right after I went in, we found out that I booked it. It was super fun being on the set because I was with a whole bunch of comedians. You couldn’t stop laughing.
Q. And now you’re in a big feature film, “Good Boys.” What was it like being on that set and working with Seth Rogen?
A. It was just like “The Last Man on Earth.” We were all laughing, especially at the lines that the producers and Seth Rogen have written for it. [Seth is] one of those people that doesn’t even try to be funny, and they’re funny.
Q. I bet it’s cool to see Seth Rogen in other movies, too, now that you know him. A. It is, especially “The Lion King,” because I went to go see it with my friends, and I’m like, “I know Pumbaa!”
PHOTO
Q. So, “Good Boys” — it’s rated R, and you do a lot of things that kids your age aren’t supposed to be doing. What was it like to get out of your comfort zone and say a few words you don’t exactly say every day?
A . At first, I didn’t really want to do it, you know? I was never raised to cuss. But after we started shooting, I was really into it. My character is Lucas — he’s the safe one, the one that’s more innocent. With a lot of the other boys, they cussed a lot, and I’m like, “Can I get some more cuss words?” I finally got some.
Q What did your parents think about “Good Boys”?
A. Well, my mom was on board with it because she always told me it was just acting. She thought it was really funny. I don’t know what my dad [thought] because he was in Texas. [laughs]
Q. How do you balance being a kid and also being a professional actor?
A I do my schoolwork first [Williams is homeschooled]. I go to the gym with my mom, and then my mom checks her emails. If I have an audition, we go to the audition. But I really want to try normal school when school starts back, because I want to get the feel of normal school and have some friends that aren’t actors also.
Q. Where do you see yourself 10 years from now? Do you want to be an actor “when you grow up”?
A . Yes. Right now, that’s what I’m thinking about — just acting when I grow up. I see myself in a big house in 10 years, a millionaire. A zoo inside of my house because I love animals. I want a monkey that I can name Bubbles.
4. Tech Deck. A tiny skateboard he and his brother like to play with.
6. Sketch pad. Keith likes to draw in his free time. This sketch is Eleven from “Stranger Things.”
7. Hershey’s chocolate. A favorite candy.
8. Ice Breakers.
Keith says he likes eating mints “even if my breath doesn’t smell bad.”
1. Phone.
2. Beats headphones. Keith loves hip-hop and rap. Currently, his favorite artist is Cardi B.
3. Leo the Lizard. Keith’s leopard gecko who lives in L.A.
Cinéma Féminin
French producer and filmmaker, Audrey Clinet, bypasses the coasts to kickstart the stateside chapter of her production company in Cowtown. »
BY JOSEPH RICHARDSON
When Audrey Clinet wanted to open the American chapter of her female-focused film production company, she contemplated the obvious choices of New York and Los Angeles. But in each city, she found herself being drowned out by the cacophony of production companies.
At the suggestion of her friend and business partner Laura Fierer, Clinet turned her attention to Fort Worth, the place her company has called home since its founding in 2018.
“There’s a place for me here,” Clinet said.
Clinet realized Fort Worth is a burgeoning city ideal for any business hoping to grow.
“I think when you’re a business owner, it’s very interesting to be surrounded by that energy,” she said. “I expect that the company will grow because of that dynamic.”
Fierer –– film producer and co-founder of the American chapter –– originally thought she’d be in Fort Worth for just three years. Three turned to six, and now, she’s never leaving. She believes the glut of production companies in Los Angeles and New York made it difficult to thrive.
“Everybody has a project. You go to a bar, and the waitress is gonna have two scripts that she’s working on or an audition that she went to in the morning and one that she’s got in the afternoon. Everybody’s in the industry,” she said. “It’s hard to have a message and have a voice. I really thought we could do something good here.”
Clinet, concerned by the lack of representation of female filmmakers, began an annual film screening of femalehelmed films in Paris in 2012. Eroïn would grow from this screening to support and empower women in the film industry.
“The number of female directors produced in the industry is very low,” Clinet said. “I really want to help them. I really want to give them a voice, and I really want to give them a company that can support them. That’s been my focus.”
According to the website womenandhollywood.com, of the topgrossing 100 films of 2018, only about 4 percent of the 112 directors were women.
Fierer wants their company to help “level the playing field” for women in the industry.
This vision informs Eroïn’s mission, not simply the bottom line.
“Some agents will see a film and see the potential of how they can make money with the film,” Clinet said. “I work more with my feelings. I don’t know if that’s
good for business, but when I love the film, I love the film. I really want to help the filmmaker get their film everywhere.”
After three years, Clinet turned her annual screening into Eroïn, a threepronged company handling distribution, production, and management for female filmmakers. Eroïn currently works with filmmakers around the world, connecting the directors to the industry, producing, and distributing their projects.
Distribution is all about reaching buyers. Clinet is in constant contact with buyers for television stations, schools, universities, and theaters from every part of the world to sell the films.
“It’s mailing and mailing and mailing and mailing,” she said. “Twenty-four hours, seven days, no vacations, no weekends, no nights. I think about it all the time.”
That means Clinet is always on the hunt for emerging talent. She splits her time between New York, Los Angeles, Fort Worth, and France, attending a film festival every two months.
Production is finding the best script and trusting the creativity, talent, and vision of the filmmaker and being able to see the film before it’s even complete. First comes financing, then organizing the writing and shooting of the project, and finding a way to get the film in front of an audience.
“It’s finding investments, finding people who can trust your ideas who want to
follow the film and can see the film as a product,” Audrey said.
Management –– the latest addition to the company –– is all about making connections.
“It’s connecting people with the filmmaker and making the filmmaker known,” Clinet said. “It’s more about connecting the filmmaker to the industry.”
To accomplish this, Eroïn needs money. The name of the game is now finding investors to grow the company.
“It’s such a huge project, and without money, we can’t grow further,” Clinet said. “Putting money on a film company is risky for any investor because it’s an activity that, unfortunately, is not very sure. Investors prefer to put money on something that they are sure will work.”
Clinet hopes to find people passionate about Eroïn itself, who will also mentor them in the growth of the company.
“The thing my project has needed for years is a godfather or godmother,” she said. “Someone who likes the project and likes the value of my company, being able to help push the project further.”
I work more with my feelings. I don’t know if that’s good for business, but when I love the film, I love the film. I really want to help the filmmaker get their film everywhere.”
Audrey Clinet
A Walk in Canyon Country
Both students and teacher learned valuable lessons during a backcountry adventure through Utah.
BY KYLE WHITECOTTON
The idea was simple: Gather a small group of adventurous college students and see what happens when we combine an English course with an Outdoor Studies course. I would teach college composition while my longtime friend and colleague, Sally Cirincione, would teach canyon orientation. After months of brainstorming curriculum models, writing official proposals, and convincing our deans that this crazy idea could actually work, Sally, eight students, and I were finally standing on the outskirts of Utah’s Capitol Reef National Park with our backpacks loaded up for a week-long backcountry adventure.
For the past two months, we had been in the classroom, reading and discussing Edward Abbey’s “Desert Solitaire” while exploring the complexities of the rhetorical situation and practicing the writing process again and again. We also practiced route-finding skills, studied topographic maps of the canyon country, talked about risk management, and reviewed the principles of Leave No Trace. By the time spring break arrived, we were all itching to get out of the classroom and on the trail. Not only would this week of backpacking be a major part of the students’ final grade and a culmination of the skills they had learned, it would also be a lesson in the value of nature and time in the outdoors. After spending much of the first day driving up from Moab and acquiring the necessary permit from the ranger station, we finally set out on the 22-mile Spring
Canyon Trail. From the parking lot at the upper end of the trail, we followed the old Holt Draw Road for more than a mile until it ended near Sulphur Creek. This easy, flat walk got our blood pumping and our legs warmed up just in time for a wet spring snowfall to commence. Suddenly, the reality of our endeavor set in. We wouldn’t see our cars again for five days. We were walking away from toilet facilities, running water, microwave ovens, and coffee makers.
The route we would be following was not an official, maintained trail, and the regular influences of weather, flash floods, and the all-too-common rock fall make for everchanging route conditions. What’s more, none of us had ever been to Capitol Reef, so the canyon presented raw adventure at every turn; still, with a topographic map in hand, each student would have to take the lead and match contour lines on paper to the rugged terrain that surrounded us. Free of GPS and cell phones, they would navigate their own piece of wilderness.
As the snow continued to fall, it mixed with the canyon dirt. The ground underfoot turned to a soft, slippery mud that the students referred to as peanut butter. We walked for another two miles through the peanut butter of the creek bed to the base of the red Wingate cliffs towering directly over us. From there, it was an unremitting climb through jagged red rock and juniper country, followed by a steep scramble leading to a large, muddy bench overlooking the wash — our first camp.
The sun dropped fast behind the cliffs, and the temperature plummeted. Light
from eleven headlamps danced amid junipers as the students split off with their designated “cook groups” to pitch tents and prep dinner. Although we were too exhausted to appreciate it at the time, this would become our beloved evening ritual set to the soft roar of backcountry stoves, the warm scent of dinner on the cold night air, and the buzz of students swapping stories and reliving the adventures of the day.
Spring mornings in canyon country are typically chilly, but that first morning was frigid. The muddy ground had frozen overnight, so breaking camp was easy and jovial. Mornings offered another sort of ritual ushered in by the slow rising of the sun, the smell of instant coffee, and the anticipation of the trail ahead.
Spirits were high as we hiked east around two prominent points in the Wingate cliff. As we rounded the second point, we saw two deep clefts cutting down through the Wingate wall at the top of a talus slope ahead — a treacherous section of the trail known as “the W.” From the bed of Sulphur Creek to the W is 1 mile, but the trail up and over is near vertical and layered with ample snow and peanut butter mud that would usher in our most challenging day of hiking. It was a series of what came to be known as problem-solving opportunities and teachable moments that would quickly bring us closer together.
After clearing the W, we followed a steep gully down into Spring Canyon where the journey took us east through less treacherous terrain. We left the snow, mud, and bad weather behind and spent the remainder of the journey in a land of mammoth cliff walls and jagged boulders the size of small houses.
In addition to the daily task of collecting and disinfecting water from the occasional pothole, the students were expected to complete various assignments on the trail. Over the next few days, the students took turns teaching lessons based on research they had done back on campus. While we walked, we learned about things like cryptobiotic soil, flashfloods, and vari-
ous canyon country flora and fauna. The students were also required to keep a backcountry journal and encouraged to write each night before turning in. Perhaps the most significant of these assignments was the much-anticipated solo.
On the final evening, after setting up camp beneath enormous cottonwoods crowded in an alcove on the north side of the canyon, Sally and I led each student to their own little section of wilderness where they would sit alone and write for an undisclosed amount of time. What followed was an astonishing series of heartfelt revelations that each student voluntarily shared with the group while back at camp.
Whether it was extreme exhaustion from long days of hiking, the extended break from technology and civilization, the inevitable camaraderie of shared experience in the wild, or some combination of all three, that week in Utah’s canyon country profoundly changed each of us in different ways. But there was nothing unique about us in that sense. The truth is, everyone can benefit from time spent in the outdoors.
In the backcountry, everything is intensified. Like some mathematical equation, this intensity flourishes exponentially relative to the amount of time one spends there. Sounds become more discernable so that the cascading song of a canyon wren is as beautiful as any symphony. Colors, whether in those immense swathes of canyon walls or in the frayed ribbons of juniper bark, become vivid mosaics one would expect in an art museum. Even the most civilized of actions like brushing your teeth or washing your hands are experienced anew in the outdoors. Factor in the complete relinquishment of technology, and this intensity can be quite jarring. The simple warmth of a sunrise on a frosty morning is reason to dance and sing, while an uninterrupted canopy of midnight stars bids you to linger a moment longer before bedtime. There’s simply nothing like it.
The next morning, we set out early toward the junction of Chimney Rock Canyon 2 miles away. From there, we walked another 3 miles to the parking lot and returned to civilization. Before digging my car keys out of my pack, I turned back and said goodbye to the canyon.
Guide to Fall Gallery Night
Everything you need to know to survive a full day of art.
Twice a year, close to equinox, Fort Worth’s abundance in quirkiness, artiness, and creativity comes out of the woodwork to display its latest creations during Fall and Spring Gallery Nights. Hosted by the Fort Worth Art Dealers Association, this year’s Fall Gallery Night includes local and nationally known artists with exhibits in 30 participating galleries.
Given the sheer amount of art one can consume on Fall Gallery Night — a nearly innumerable amount of exhibits are going down over the course of a single day — taking in as much as possible can be a daunting task. For this reason — and to bring like-minded art lovers together on a bus with booze — Art Tooth, Fort Worth’s iconic art collective, and Blackhouse are hosting the biannual Gallery Night pArty Bus. The bus will take patrons through some can’tmiss stops, including the Kimbell Art Museum, Artes de la Rosa, ArtSpace111, Fort Works Art, and Fort Worth Art Circle. An afterparty takes place at the Blackhouse, naturally.
PARTICIPATING
GALLERIES:
American Institute of Architecture Fort Worth
Amon Carter Museum of American Art
Art on the Boulevard
Artes de la Rosa
Artspace111
Atrium Gallery at UNTHSC
beARTsee
Botanical Research Institute of Texas
College Town
Renaissance Center
Carter Bowden Antiques
Fort Works Art
Fort Worth Community
Arts Center
Gallery 440
Galleywinter Gallery by Pat Green
Garret Pendergrass Pottery
P.S.
Rebecca Low
Inc.
Sid Richardson Museum
SiNaCa Studios School of Glass
Tarrant County College Northwest Campus
Texas Academy of Figurative Art
The Galleries at TCU: Fort Worth
Contemporary Art
The Gallery at UTA
The Upstairs Gallery
Weiler House Fine Art Gallery
William Campbell Contemporary Art
Kimbell Art Museum
Maven’s Moon
McAnthony’s MultiCultural Studio & Gallery
Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
The Letter
Sculpture Gallery,
GINGER WALKER: A native of Dallas, Walker’s abstract art will be on display during Fort Worth Art Circle’s pop-up exhibit “REFLECTIONS,” where her diverse and colorful palettes will be featured alongside other area artists.
ERIC INKALA: This Brooklyn-based artist, who’s equally inspired by graffiti, pop art, and contemporary art, will transport Fort Works Art gallerygoers with bold, colorful, and expressive pieces.
NANCY LAMB: The Fort Worth sculptor and painter who studied at TCU will be the center of an exhibit at Artspace111, which will feature some of Lamb’s past ceramic mask works, as well as a new 2D series.
Compass Concierge
Exclusive to Compass, our Concierge program is among a suite of services designed to help prepare your home for the market. From deep-cleaning to cosmetic improvements, our agents will work with you to assess every opportunity to elevate your home’s value. Once the necessary improvements have been determined, Compass will cover all upfront costs, collecting payment for the services rendered at the time of the property’s closing. By investing in your home’s potential, we aim to provide a
Montrachet
From the visionaries of Montserrat. Lots from $235,000-$2,000,000.
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Roots
Rebels
Are
we Cowtown or Funkytown? How Fort Worth lives up to its dichotomous nicknames.
WORDS BY RICK MAUCH | PHOTOS BY OLAF GROWALD
The word “funky” had an entirely different meaning when cowpokes were driving cattle through Fort Worth during the days of saloons and bloodletting. If you told one of the cattlemen that Funkytown would eventually become synonymous with Fort Worth, they would likely assume the city had either developed an incessant sewage problem or the term was simply derogatory.
Today, Fort Worth doesn’t just pride itself on this nickname but has made it an integral part of the city’s pitch to young transplants who are key to the city’s growth.
While we can trace the Funkytown moniker to the 1980s, when the
name was used to describe the city’s bourgeoning hip-hop scene, the term became more prevalent with the establishment of the “Keep Fort Worth Funky” campaign in 2011.
People may recall the mustachioed
stickers bearing the slogan throughout the city in the mid-to-late aughts. This was all the brainchild of James Zametz, a selfemployed contractor.
Zametz, who remains Keep Fort Worth Funky’s lead organizer, is far too humble to take any credit for the Funkytown nickname’s ubiquity in Fort Worth — preferring to shed light on those who produce the culture, not those who merely promote it. But he easily waxes poetic when speaking of local businesses, embracing diversity,
and the campaign’s origin story. Zametz said he immediately fell in love with Fort Worth's funky-ness 15 years ago when he and his wife moved to Fairmount, so they started a campaign similar to the “Keep Austin Weird” movement.
“We instantly thought of funky, as it sounds good with Fort Worth, and found its colorful history of use,” Zametz says.
The effect of this campaign was farreaching, and Zametz has begrudgingly become the de facto purveyor of a movement that illuminates the city’s diverse artwork, cultural institutions, music, film, and more.
Yet, despite its dichotomy with Cowtown, the two nicknames don’t just live in harmony — they thrive.
“I think Cowtown and Funkytown all have a similar thread of people,” Zametz says. “We do what we want; we don’t like people telling us what to do; and we live life to the fullest.
“It’s the Wild West ideology, and I think we most definitely can, and do, live harmoniously in this city.”
Youth Movement
Fort Worth's age is indicative of its diverse culture. The average age of a Fort Worth resident is 32.9 years, about four years younger than the national average. And, according to Data USA, the median age of a Fort Worthian is half a year less than an Austinite — often considered a city bustling with youth — and two-tenths of a year less than a Houstonian. City of Fort Worth Planning and Development Director Randle Harwood credited this to several reasons, including the fastgrowing Hispanic population and their tendency to have larger families at an earlier age, affordable housing attracting more millennials, employers that recruit people from all over the world, and a large logistics and shipping industry that brings young workers.
“There are, of course, a myriad of other factors that are contributing to our youthfulness, like Fort Worth is just a fun place to live and work,” Harwood says.
Harwood added that this youthful influx means good things for the city, in terms of culture and more. “It will mean that we
will have a young, energetic work force looking to grow, raise families, and live to a healthy old age in Fort Worth,” he said.
Fort Worth Economic Development Director Robert Sturns said that while no official data is kept on the average age of business owners in the city, anecdotally he said it is skewing a little younger.
“I think Cowtown and Funkytown all have a similar thread of people. we want; we don't like people telling fullest.” james zametz
“I would see the fact that we have a more youthful population overall translating into more growth on the smallbusiness side,” Sturns says. “I think the growing entrepreneur ecosystem has a definite effect on our culture.”
The revitalization of the Near Southside has also played a big role in Fort Worth's youth movement and cultural diversification. A walk down Magnolia Avenue reveals a wide range of culture, from TCU students and graduates alike in polos and sorority shirts, to indie rock hipsters, skateboarders, bohemians, and artists. Signature streets are lined with new infill buildings and beautifully renovated historic landmarks that are home to hundreds of locally owned businesses, dozens of creative firms, music and art venues, award-winning restaurants and breweries, and more.
“And there is so much opportunity left,” said Mike Brennan, Near Southside, Inc. president. “The Near Southside's continuing evolution is extending this incredible history of community commitment that created a totally unique and tightknit neighborhood that welcomes all.”
City councilwoman Ann Zadeh, whose district includes the burgeoning community, credits the Near Southside with being a perfect example of smart urban development.
“[The principles used during development] resulted in sustainable, mixed-use, walkable and bikeable streets, which are the foundation of a quality place,” she says.
“The Near Southside, specifically, is the heart of the creative class and has experienced both restoration and new development that has resulted in a successful district. Urban villages such as this are places where people can live, work, and play and, in my opinion, should be encouraged across our city.”
Relishing Diversity
Fort Worth now ranks among the top 15 in the nation, population wise, with a total number of inhabitants that will likely approach over 1 million within the next decade. And with that many residents comes different cultures.
Fortunately, Fort Worth’s tolerant and accepting nature has always found a way to bridge these gaps. For example, as Zametz noted, music has long been a Fort Worth mainstay, and the local scene has long provided such diversity in styles — from Van Cliburn to Bob Wills to the Toadies to Leon Bridges — that it makes the scene almost impossible to define.
“Cowboys, hip-hoppers, and rockers alike share the stage in our city, and that’s a big thing. It’s awesome,” Zametz says. “I think Fort Worth will always be known as a cowboy town or thought of as ‘where the West begins,’ as our motto says. But, to claim the entire city as such and to promote or market our city as such would be a disservice to the many other cultures that live here.”
While country-western music will always have a home in Cowtown, alternative (The Cush), indie (Meach Pango), rock (Quaker City Night Hawks), and rap and hip-hop (Solar Slim) are also big locally.
Another defining characteristic of Fort Worth is the impact of Hispanic culture. Any direction you drive, you can hear or see — and taste — the influence of Latinos deep in the city. This includes talented art groups and musicians, along with an array of Hispanic dining opportunities.
“Tacos, tacos, tacos, panaderias, taquerias, and the Seminary mall [now La Gran Plaza], love it!” Zametz said gleefully.
Fort Worth’s demographics include a diverse range of races, ethnicities, religions, and sexual orientations.
According to the 2010 census, the population was comprised of 34.1 percent Hispanic or Latino and 18.9 percent black or African-American — both of which far exceed the national average.
Fort Worth’s location within the Bible Belt has resulted in a moral and ethical compass pointed firmly in the direction of acceptance and understanding. In 1981, the first Tarrant County Pride parade took place,
and in 2011 — when the parade moved to downtown Fort Worth — Mayor Betsy Price served as the parade’s Grand Marshal.
Fort Worth councilman Dennis Shingleton, whose District 7 includes much of west and north Fort Worth, thinks that Fort Worth’s funky culture could have an impact on the city’s overall acceptance of contrasting opinions, lifestyles, and cultures.
“There are many social, cultural, and political differences I would like to see reconciled, accepted for what they are, and patiently discussed,” Shingleton says.
critical that our past must shoulder the responsibility of educating They will enjoy their new home more if
“If any particular ‘funky’ attribute can accomplish that, then we as a community are truly blessed.”
Coexisting Cultures
Steve Murrin is a former Fort Worth city councilman and is known as the unofficial “Mayor of the Stockyards.” In 1973, he started a movement that brought about the restoration of the area, turning it from decay and possible destruction to a place that draws visitors from all over the world.
And no visit with Murrin is complete without his telling of the history of the Stockyards. He says it all goes back to geography, topography, and timing.
Murrin tells of post-Civil War trail drives that assembled and provisioned where Daggett Crossing (located around what is now Northside Drive) facilitated a single fork of the Trinity River to the area that is now recognized as the Stockyards National Historic District. The railroad came in 1876, followed by the city's own packing houses in the early 1900s.
“Imported European purebred cattle soon replaced the scrawny Longhorns, and as all parties prospered, we became the largest livestock market in the South,” Murrin says. “Oil was later discovered on the ranch lands. Great mansions were built.
Steve Murrin
“Fort Worth families, many with ranching heritage, underwrote our museums, colleges and universities, zoo, Botanic Gardens, and other general advancements in our social life.”
The Southwestern Exposition Livestock Show and Rodeo was held in the Stockyards through the early 1940s and continues today as the primary annual
signature West Texas event as it prepares to move into the new Dickies Arena early next year — more proof that the legendary past and the popular current can work together and benefit.
“As our city continues to grow, expanding our industry and attractiveness to new citizens who may not be aware of our heritage, it becomes critical that those of us who treasure our past must shoulder the responsibility of educating the newcomers,” Murrin says. “They will enjoy their new home more if they learn to appreciate its roots.
“Fort Worth has been called the ‘Texasmost city.’ Our combination of cowboys and culture has kept us true to that title. For the last 40 years, the most gratifying comment received on a pretty regular basis from passing visitors on the sidewalk has been ‘Thanks for keeping it real.’”
The origins of Cowtown are obvious; Fort Worth is where the West begins, and those who question such a proclamation need look no further than the Stockyards or experience the Fort Worth Herd — a daily cattle drive down East Exchange Avenue.
Yet, despite their dichotomy, Funkytown and Cowtown have blended seamlessly.
“I think we’ve always been Funkytown, just as we’ve always been Cowtown,” Brandon Gengelback, executive vice president of economic development, says. “I think both reinforce the same message of originality: being true to who we are.”
One thing common among those who influenced Fort Worth’s past and those driving the city forward is admiration for Fort Worth’s uniqueness and willingness to stand by its own brand.
“It is critical we keep part of the Cowtown tradition and remember the rich heritage and deep-rooted traditions on which Fort Worth was built,” Mayor Betsy Price says. “I always say, it’s Fort Worth’s character and characters that set us apart from other big cities.”
Defining
Culture
We
asked a handful of prominent Fort Worthians to define the city's culture. While each answer proved how difficult it is to put our diverse home in a box, their responses are also incredibly insightful.
Every person's perception of Fort Worth is different, but they all have one thing in common: a love for their home.
BETSY DENNIS BRANDOM
SHINGLETON
Mayor
Fort Worth’s culture is truly unique, offering residents a small-town feel with big city amenities. A city comprised of friendly, hospitable, and compassionate residents that unite to solve its problems. Fort Worth’s culture is humble, yet creative and ever-evolving.
District 7 Council Member I don’t know if our culture has a “funky” characteristic or attribute, but if our city or any faction of it embraces a “funky” thing or two, it will not be the derailment of a great city but the side car that we bring along with us. Fort Worth is an accepting town of veterans, retirees, infants, homeless, students, mothers, fathers, and singles. All are growing together for our mutual quality of life.
GENGELBACH
Executive Vice President of Economic Development, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce Fort Worth residents have always been trailblazers with the grit to get stuff done. We envision the future and work together to make it happen. Surveys of residents and visitors tell us that one of our best assets is our hospitality. Fort Worth is about welcoming people as they are, not as we want them to be.
JESSICA MITCH TOM
AVP Marketing and Film Commissioner, Visit Fort Worth and Fort Worth Film Commission
It’s hard to define the entire city’s culture. But, for me, Fort Worth’s is a unique mix of worldrenowned art institutions;
Creative Director, Visit Fort Worth and Hear Fort Worth
We have music, distilleries, craft beer, incredible food, and an amazing nightlife. We are still writing the definition of what Fort Worth’s culture is, and I am excited to be here helping
Executive Vice President, Visit Fort Worth
Unbelievable determination and hospitality. For 170 years, far-sighted visionaries have forged a renaissance out of a frontier town on Trinity River. Today, a new generation is tapping this spirit to make our community even better than before.
CHRISTOPHERSON WHITTEN MARTENS
BOB
President and CEO, Visit Fort Worth
Fort Worth is the Texas many people are looking for. For some that means a horse and saddle. For many, it means working together with uncommon determination to make
CHELSEA ANN
Deputy Chief of Staff, Mayor Price and City Council
Fort Worth has been defined by a pioneering spirit since it was founded. It is that same pulse that propels our city forward to fresh, new horizons. Fort Worth is a city you can
District 9 Council Member
Fort Worth is a big city with a small-town, friendly, welcoming personality. The Cowtown/ Funkytown dichotomy and combination just add to the diverse community that we are and provide
JAMESON
ADLER ZADEH
You won’t believe what’s possible with Realtors ® like us.
How does one define funky? While there's a growing sentiment to apply this denomination to Fort Worth, you'll likely receive a different answer from every person who purveys this nickname. One could easily argue that the Stockyards, home of Cowtown, with its Wild West vibe and abundance of large belt buckles and cowboy hats, is the funkiest thing west of the Mississippi. And we wouldn't argue otherwise. But for this list, we're choosing to highlight the people and the things that push our city in different, diverse, and exciting directionspeople who may one day become synonymous with the term Funkytown and things on the precipice of becoming cultural institutions. Ultimately, these are the who and the what that are at the heart of our city's change.
Twenty-one people and things that make Fort Worth funky
BY RACHAEL LINDLEY, BRIAN KENDALL, AND MALCOLM MAYHEW
Ayala
From time to time, you’ll see the commercial work of local artist Sarah Ayala hanging throughout various locales in and around Fort Worth: pizzeria Abe Froman’s wood-grain letter sign; the office sign for CG Northern in The Foundry District; a sign for a funeral parlor in North Richland Hills. All were carefully, meticulously stenciled by the Fort Worth native. The 27-year-old artist spends an equal amount of time working in another medium, a unique form of visual art called mandalas. Specifically, she takes old maps, of Fort Worth and beyond, and creates beautiful, texturally rich designs on them, using good ol’ fashioned pen and pencil. “I call it cartography art,” she says. It combines two of her loves: mandalas artwork and vintage/antique maps. “I have a crazy collection of maps, and sometimes I feel bad about drawing on them,” she says. “But it’s like other forms of art in which old pieces are used to create new works.” Ayala’s work can be seen on Instagram at @sarahayala.
2 local musicians
Because of Fort Worth’s Cowtown roots, the city will always remain tied to country-western music. But this by no means gives twang any exclusivity; Fort Worth has produced — and continues to produce — music from a wide range of genres. Name any musical style, and Fort Worth likely has an artist sharing tunes on SoundCloud. While there are the obvious Funkytown musicians who’ve managed to break into the billboard charts, Leon Bridges and Toadies aside, the local Fort Worth music scene is one of the nation’s best and most diverse. From soul (Abraham Alexander) to rock (Quaker City Night Hawks) to indie (Meach Pango) to rap and hip-hop (Solar Slim), our town has some of the most talented singers, guitarists, drummers, keyboardists, and bassists walking among us. If this current lineup of Fort Worth musicians has done its part to inspire the next generation of singers and songwriters, the future sounds bright.
4
Channing godfrey Peoples
3
Niles City Sound Studio
The vintage equipment that occupies Niles City Sound Studio is ever so prevalent in the tranquil sounds found on Leon Bridges’ debut album, Coming Home. Austin Jenkins, Josh Block, and Chris Vivion founded the studio after amassing a drool-worthy collection of old-school recording equipment over the course of several years. The three men eventually met Leon Bridges, at the time a dishwasher at Fort Worth’s Del Frisco’s, and the rest is Fort Worth lore. With current trends returning to a more organic sound, Niles City has played a big role in expanding Fort Worth’s music scene beyond the confines of the Metroplex. The Niles roster now includes NEEDTOBREATHE, Frank Turner, Robert Ellis, Nicole Atkins, and Gili Yalo.
Channing Peoples is hard at work putting Fort Worth on the silver screen. When she noticed a severe lack of complex roles for black women, she made it a priority to bring genuine, racially-diverse, multi-layered characters to the forefront of her own films. After attending Baylor University, she went to the School of Cinematic Arts at USC. Growing up, Peoples dreamt of becoming an actress or a singer, but with the lack of meaningful roles, she ultimately decided to write the parts she wanted to see. This ambition led to the script she worked on immediately following her graduation, “Miss Juneteenth,” which is set to begin filming in 2019. A mother/daughter tale about a previous Miss Juneteenth winner — which commemorates the day slaves were emancipated in Texas — the script received several accolades following its submission to various screenwriting competitions.
5 fortress festival
It’s hard to believe that before 2017, North Texas — with its high volume of residents, musicians, and art lovers — didn’t have a major music festival. Taking place in the heart of the Cultural District, Fortress Festival filled those uninhabited shoes. The year of its inception, the festival showcased a lineup of artists as diverse as the city it calls home. A perfect mix of local, national, and global acts, the festival has brought such acts as Leon Bridges, Father John Misty, Slowdive, Chvrches, Run the Jewels, Rae Sremmund, and Tinashe. Taking place over the course of two days during the last weekend of April, the festival is primed to become a North Texas institution.
6 music venues
Fort Worth has never lacked musicians — one could throw a rock and hit a guitarist. But these musicians require spaces to showcase their art to the masses. Fortunately, Fort Worth has music venues in spades. No matter the day of the week, live music is happening in Funkytown. Whether it’s genre-specific venues (you’ll likely hear country-western at Billy Bob’s), renovated theaters (The Ridglea Theater), outdoor venues (Shipping & Receiving and Lola’s), or venues with a record store inside (Main at South Side), if you’re looking for a good gig to attend, the city has you covered. While the iconic 1919 Hemphill was shut down due to code violations, there is hope this venue, a nonprofit DIY art space, will soon reopen, thanks to contributions.
7
jeremy joel
You’ve no doubt run across the work of local emerging artist Jeremy Joel, maybe without even knowing it. He painted murals inside Avoca Coffee Roasters and Magnolia Skate Shop, both on the Near Southside, not far from where the 36-year-old artist grew up. His more personal works were recently on display at an art show he helped curate, Pass the Peas, at Shipping & Receiving. There, art-lovers got an up-close glimpse of his biographical paintings, in which he chronicled his rough-and-tumble upbringing. Joel’s star is clearly on the rise: An art gallery in New York recently acquired one of his works, and another recently sold for $7,000. Follow him on Instagram at @bens_goldteeth.
8
Sedrick & Letitia Huckaby
In case you didn’t know, former President George W. Bush has picked up painting as a pastime. His portraits of veterans and world leaders have received praise for their unique style — a style that very much mirrors that of one of his art instructors, Sedrick Huckaby. Sedrick’s own art, like his wife Letitia, focuses on African-American culture, heritage, and history. He paints large-scale portraits that showcase the importance of everyday people — something evident in Sedrick’s Big Momma’s House, a home he inherited from his grandmother in Fort Worth’s Poly neighborhood, which is now filled with jawdropping canvases. Letitia, well known for her 2015 collection, Bayou Baroque, has a more photojournalistic style. Her artistic ambitions include the creation of a new visual language by combining traditional images but translating them in new ways.
9
artsgoggle
Billing itself as Fort Worth’s premier festival of local artists, ArtsGoggle provides the space and marketing to showcase everything that makes our city funky. Once a year, Fort Worth artists, merch vendors, food vendors, and musicians line the streets of the city’s burgeoning Near Southside. Celebrating its 17th year on Oct. 19, patrons can walk — or take a trolley — through the tents that will occupy Magnolia Avenue and South Main Street. The thing that makes this event so unique is its exclusivity to Fort Worth and its aim to showcase our city’s infinite creative contributions.
10
jo dufo
Art teacher, peace muralist, and advocate for children, Jo Dufo, who lives and works in Fort Worth’s Near Southside, combines her myriad of vocations to affect positive change. As an art teacher at Metro Opportunity High School, a local alternative school where children are sent for disciplinary reasons, Dufo uses art as a tool to connect to her students. Often, the students start off as despondent, but slowly and surely, Dufo draws them out of their shells. In turn, they connect to the world and different cultures and walk out of her classroom with new-found confidence. Her expressive style, which includes a colorfully painted midsize truck, have also become local institutions. Through her funky and colorful art, Dufo spreads a message of peace and understanding that resonates with children of all ages and backgrounds.
Adding to Fort Worth’s burgeoning contemporary art scene is Aimee Cordoso’s brainchild, Art Tooth. Founded in 2016, Art Tooth is an artist-run gallery, collective, pop-up, and overall quirky art advocate — just follow Art Tooth on social channels if you ever question the city’s funkiness. Dedicated to educating and exhibiting new and mid-career artists, the group is determined to make Fort Worth a premier art destination and forge relationships between artists and patrons. To get involved, try purchasing a ticket on the Gallery Night pArty Bus where you and fellow art lovers are carted around to participating galleries.
12 brewers & distillers
Fort Worth doesn’t just love to drink beer, whiskey, and vodka; we love to make it. Craft breweries have become prevalent across most, if not all, major U.S. cities. But, in Fort Worth, the scene has become city-defining. With new breweries and distilleries opening at a rapid pace, listing all the places in Fort Worth that ferment their own alcohol is a task that borders on futility. The new Funkytown Fermatorium, which is an offshoot of Dallas’ Deep Ellum Brewery, opened its doors in the Cultural District earlier this year. Martin House Brewing Company continues to pump out some of the beer world’s most interesting concoctions, HopFusion is quickly becoming a staple, Wild Acre is a must-visit, and Collective Brewing Project is the place to go for sours. Point is, when it comes to the craft of making alcoholic beverages, Fort Worth’s funkiness shines through.
15
Tony Green
13
jeffrey Lorde
You might have to look twice before realizing Jeffrey Lorde is not James Zametz, the creator of the Keep Fort Worth Funky campaign. After all, both sport impressive facial hair, never expose the crown of their heads, possess a friendly disposition, and are similarly passionate about advocating Fort Worth as a city on the precipice of artistic greatness. Through his Funkytown Podcast, which you can listen to on PodBean, Lorde, in as relaxed a style as one can possibly manage, shoots the shit with artists, musicians, writers, business owners, and quirky Fort Worthians — which are in abundance. Similar to the podcast’s free-flowing style, the podcast doesn’t abide by any regimented schedule, but a new one pops up almost weekly.
14
Blackhouse
On the corner of East Peach Street stands the behemoth Blackhouse, so named for its pitch-black exterior. While the structure dates back to 1915, the home was rechristened in 2016 to its current descriptive nomenclature and has quickly become something of a cultural hub. The Victorianstyle home is located in the historic neighborhood of Rock Island, just a few minutes away from Sundance Square, and plays host to a myriad of events focused on local art, music, and the creative scene. On most weekends, you can find a party that goes into the wee hours when some of Fort Worth’s most creative characters mix and mingle.
One of Funkytown’s biggest advocates is a man with a large gap-toothed smile and enough charisma and affection to convince anyone he’s Fort Worth’s most beloved celebrity. This is certainly an arguable proclamation; but walk side by side with Tony Green down Magnolia Avenue, where he seemingly doesn’t run into anyone he doesn’t recognize, and you just might be persuaded. While Green’s primary vocation is in the service industry — he bartends at La Zona and works at Kent and Co. Wines — he’s also a tireless self-promoter and, by extension, a promoter of the city. Green currently has a live talk show at Shipping & Receiving — aptly titled “Hello, I’m Tony Green.” The show highlights Fort Worth movers and shakers or, as he says, the people you need to know in Fort Worth. A glimpse of the show on his YouTube channel and you’ll immediately get a sense of Green’s contagious charm and his deep love for Fort Worth.
16
The Night Riders
When Fort Worth’s mayor, Betsy Price, has weekly community bike rides, you know the city’s all in on this awesomely efficient way of getting around. Billing themselves as Fort Worth’s best bicycle group, as the name suggests, the Night Riders ride their bikes after sundown. Two evenings per week — Wednesdays and Sundays — flashing lights and helmet-and-chamois-clad residents take to the streets for a 10-mile ride that includes two bar stops. It’s becoming a Fort Worth standard, and the group continues to grow. Macy Moore, who helped establish the group along with fellow rider, Matt Hill, are also the founders of HopFusion — the pair concocted the idea of the brewery during one of the Night Riders’ outings.
17 art galleries
Fort Worth’s Cultural District is beaming with some of the nation’s most prestigious art institutions (Kimbell Art Museum, Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth), but Fort Worth’s art is far from bound to any one district. Thanks to muralists, collectives, and galleries, if any corner of Fort Worth is left vacant, they will fill it with art. Galleries such as Fort Works Art and ArtSpace111 routinely exhibit jaw-dropping local and national artists. SiNaCa Studios serves as an education facility for glass blowing as well as a gallery for glass art. And in the heart of Arlington Heights lies the Grackle Art Gallery, which offers patrons an amazing collection of alternative art through various mediums. The number of local galleries is far too large to list. Point is, in Fort Worth, homes that appear ramshackle or warehouses that appear vacant could very well be filled with priceless works of art.
18
Robbie & Adam Werner
The couple behind one of Fort Worth’s most popular bakeries and art-clad walls in the Near Southside, Robbie and Adam Werner moved to Fort Worth after living in Tennessee. Interestingly, it was ultimately the art scene that drew the Werner family to Fort Worth. Both veterans of art school, Robbie ultimately decided to open a bakery to pursue the equally artistic passion of making pastries. Stir Crazy Baked Goods, which features real ingredients and vegan and gluten-free offerings, quickly found a following and outgrew its original space — the bakery is now located among the bustle on Magnolia Avenue. Adam, meanwhile, continues to explore art through different mediums, including murals. You can see his work on South Main Street.
19 The Grand Berry Theater
Despite no shortage of theaters to catch big-budget blockbusters, for years, one had to drive the dreaded route to our neighboring city to catch an independent flick or Oscar-worthy hair-raiser. Thanks to the soon-to-be-open Grand Berry Theater, located in The Foundry District, the days of being left in the dark on ambitious cinema are behind us. Founded — and kind of built — by couple Jimmy and Brooke Sweeney, this DIY project is set to open to the public on Sept. 14 with a showcase of six short films by local filmmakers. Ultimately, the theater hopes to promote community and understanding through a diverse catalog of movies. Future screenings include “The Last Black Man in San Francisco,” “The Farewell,” “Midsommar,” and, on Oct. 1, the Grand Berry Theater will screen the first episodes of local filmmakers the Reyna Brothers’ docu-series, “The Bizarre.”
20 amphibian stage productions
The gorgeous Bass Performance Hall shows “Hamilton.” Amphibian Stage Productions, a quaint theater on South Main Street, shows “Gutenberg! The Musical!” Neither is greater than the other. Amphibian carefully curates its content, choosing performances that push barriers, incite conversations, and engage audiences. Founded in 2000, Amphibian is a nonprofit theater where local actors go to cut their teeth and audiences go to experience an innovative live performance. In 2003, the theater was home to the U.S. premiere of “The True History of the Tragic Life and Triumphant Death of Julia Pastrana, the Ugliest Woman in the World,” which the actors performed in pitch black. Julia Pastrana, who was often billed as “bear woman” for her circus sideshow acts, was a Mexican native exploited throughout her life and, ultimately, mummified for profit following her untimely death. The production inspired a campaign to repatriate Pastrana’s remains to her home country, where she received a Catholic burial.
Eddie Vanston, who once called Dallas home, eventually ventured out west, where crumbling architecture in Fort Worth’s Near Southside caught his fancy. Vanston revamped these historic buildings, which are now home to mixed-use spaces, condos, and more. While developers have more recently flocked west of Highway 360, Vanston beat them all to the punch and has been redeveloping buildings in the Fort for over a decade. Not one for the spotlight, he prefers to shine it on others via Shipping & Receiving, a bar he owns that also serves as one of Fort Worth’s live music cornerstones.
Twenty-five years ago, the biggest record in Fort Worth's rock ´n´ roll history was released — and it sat and sat and sat in record store bins, virtually untouched by anyone beyond local fans, friends, and family. Months later, though, Rubberneck, the major label debut from Fort Worth-bred punk group the Toadies, began to pick up steam. A year after its release, it was on its way to selling 500,000 copies. Two years later, it zoomed past a million — a feat unmatched by any other Fort Worth rock ´n´ roll group.
Rubberneck turned the four band members — singer Vaden Todd Lewis, bassist Lisa Umbarger, guitarist Darrel Herbert, and drummer Mark Reznicek — into bona fide superstars and, for a moment at least, helped shine a sliver of light on Fort Worth’s alt-rock music scene.
To celebrate the album’s 25th anniversary, band members past and present, record company execs, and others tied to the record spoke to Fort Worth Magazine about their memories of Rubberneck
The Toadies came together in the late 1980s. Lewis, Umbarger, Charles Mooney, and original drummer Guy Vaughn met at the Sound Warehouse on Camp Bowie Boulevard, where they all worked.
Vaughn: Todd and I had been in a couple bands together, so we had a solid foundation. He called me one day and said he had a vision for a new band, and he wanted me, Charles, and Lisa to be part of it. When I heard the new songs, I thought, This guy has really got something.
Umbarger: I said OK before I even knew how to play, which is kind of insane. I think Todd assumed I knew how to play because I knew so much about music. So, I showed up to rehearsal, and he figured it out pretty fast and said something like, “I thought you knew more.” We started from the very beginning, and he basically taught me how to play.
Mooney: Todd and I went to a
Smithereens show one night, and we had a great time hanging out. Next day, he said, “What do you think about starting a band?” I had never picked up an instrument in my life. He said, “Don’t worry; I’ll teach you,” and he did.
Umbarger: Charles will probably say Todd taught him everything, but the Toadies signature feedback, that was all Charles.
Mooney: I came up with the feedback as a way to mask the fact that I couldn’t play lead.
In its early years, the group had a difficult time holding on to drummers. A halfdozen came and went over the course of two years.
Vaughn: I played about six gigs with them, including a show with Fugazi at The Axis, which was amazing. But I’d already planned to move to Los Angeles, practically the next day. I wanted to take a crack at the big time.
Terry Valderas: I played with them for a while. But I wasn’t fully committed, and Lisa and Todd saw that, so they asked me to leave. They came over to my house to break the news, and the thing I remember most about it was my little brother’s dog got out and got into a scrap with a neighborhood cat. While the guys are telling me I’m no longer in the band, my brother’s dog and some cat are fighting — and then my brother gets attacked by the cat! It was bad, too. I think he had to have 16 stitches. But I still love those guys.
Michael Jerome: We were all a part of the Fort Worth scene, and we all hung out at The Axis. That’s where I first saw the Toadies. I was about 17 or 18. I was playing in some other bands — that's kind of my thing — and one of them was Pop Poppins. I was out of that band for a while and joined the Toadies. Pop asked me to rejoin, and they were my home, the band I’d been in since high school.
Madison Winchell: I guess I was, what, drummer number 23? I’ll tell you why I left: I don’t want to beat up on Todd, but he wanted to bring in a second guitarist. He’s such a great guitarist. But he wanted to
focus on fronting the band, so he brought in Tracy Sauerwein. After that, the band didn’t sound the same. Plus, I was 18, and I thought I knew everything. I didn’t see what was around the corner.
Valderas: Look at the Wikipedia entry for the Toadies, and there’s some other guy listed as a Toadies drummer, too, Dan someone or other. I don’t know who that is.
Mooney: Dan? I don’t know who that is. Ask Lisa. She’ll know.
Umbarger: I don’t know any Dan. Ask Charles. He’ll know.
Mooney: OK, if she doesn’t know and I don’t know, then I don’t know who’ll know. This is why college students aren’t allowed to cite Wikipedia.
Valderas: All these drummers, we were the Spinal Tap of Fort Worth.
In 1991, Mark Reznicek joined; he’s been the drummer ever since.
Reznicek: Before I was in the Toadies, I was in another band with my friend, Tracy Sauerwein, and we were both let go from that group. She had been going to see the Toadies, and she kept trying to get me to go with her. I’d say, “I don’t know who they are; the name sounds dumb,” and then she joined the band.
I finally went to see them after Tracy joined. They were incredible. They were getting ready to part ways with their drummer and had already decided on someone else, but I sat in with them and got the gig.
There was also a change in guitarists. Sauerwein was fired, and longtime friend Herbert joined. Months later, Mooney left.
Mooney: I quit in April 1993. I just finished college, was getting ready to get married, and I felt some pressure from the family to get a “real job.”
Herbert: I played drums in a band called Slowpoke, and we used to gig with the Toadies. Charles and Tracy were out, so
I moved into the guitar spot, which was an easy fit. It was like learning to play all your favorite songs. One rehearsal and I was ready to go.
Not long after Herbert joined, labels started taking interest in the band. A small indie label called Grass released a Toadies EP, which attracted major label interest.
Herbert: Grass pushed for a full-length album, but I knew the songs were good enough for a major. I worked the phones trying to get labels out to see us. Finally, Ray Santamaria, an Interscope A&R guy who heard the Grass EP, flew out to see us at Mad Hatters.
Santamaria: How do I articulate it? It was heavy-rock punkish music with some pop sensibilities. In the world of grunge and everything that was happening at the time, what they were doing was very unique. I remember meeting them. They were very polite and very frustrating. They were interested in a deal but wanted to do it their own way.
Herbert: Ray said that he could get some people from the label to come out if we could get a gig in LA. I pestered the only club I had heard of out there, the Whisky A Go-Go, until they booked us a show in the middle of the week. We strapped a U-Haul trailer to one of those giant land yacht sedans from the ’70s and drove all night to get there. Ted Fields, owner of the label, came to the show and signed us on the spot.
It was an incredible feeling, like winning the lottery. We drove up and down Sunset Boulevard, screaming out of the windows of the car. We got so drunk that night that we could barely stand.
The band signed in June; by September, they were making Rubberneck.
Lewis: We talked to a lot of producers but settled on Tom Rothrock and Rob Schnapf. They went on to do a bunch of huge records, but at the time, they had worked on this record by a band called Wool, and that record was pretty close to what I wanted, just a clean, crunchy sound.
The studio where Rubberneck was recorded was located in a remote area of Mendocino, California.
Reznicek: The studio was way up in the mountains and was in a big, long ranch-style home. We stayed in a cabin, surrounded by animals and nature and all these giant redwoods. It was an amazing experience. Just a bunch of kids recording an album on the side of a mountain.
Herbert: You had to drive an hour to buy a gallon of milk. It was out there, and if you weren’t working, there was nothing to do. The boredom was palpable. The studio gave us a bag full of weed, and it was difficult for people to get motivated after that. We played more “Street Fighter” than guitar. For someone like me, who likes to work, it was torture.
“Possum Kingdom,” the song that would eventually kick-start the band’s career on a national level, almost didn’t make it onto Rubberneck
Umbarger: We didn’t want that song on there at all. We fought Ray, and we fought the label on it. They came back to us and said, “This song is one of the reasons why we signed you.”
Santamaria: I told them, you gotta put that on the record. I couldn’t figure out why they were fighting us so much about it.
Reznicek: It’s not that we don’t like the song. We love it. But we felt like people had already heard it. We had released it — twice, on two other projects. We were thinking, Our friends don’t want to hear this again. It never occurred to us that maybe people in North Dakota hadn’t heard it.
The album cover was a painting by local artist Dan Lightner, then an art student at the University of North Texas.
Lightner: I was working at the same Sound Warehouse where most of the band worked. Todd had used some of my work before — for the I Hope You Die cassette and the Velvet tape. After they got signed, the first thing he asked me was if I had any paintings they could use for the cover. I was actually thinking he might use another painting — this one of a woman kneeling in front of a burning house. They have some songs about fire, so I thought it’d be perfect. But he picked the one of the guy leaping.
It was inspired by the work of artist Robert Longo and his “Men in the Cities” series, as well as a 1951 serial called “Mysterious Island.”
Lewis: I don’t know much about art. I just know when I like something, honestly, and it looked like a guy stepping into nothing, which is what I felt like we were doing.
At the time, major labels were aggressively signing alt-rock bands, many of which would put out one record, then get dropped
vaden todd lewis Lisa umbarger Mark reznicek charles mooney Dan Lightner
when it didn’t sell. For this reason, Lewis intentionally kept his expectations low.
Lewis: I thought, We’ll do the record, the label has to put it out contractually, they have to put us on tour contractually, and then they’ll realize we tricked them into signing us. We'd get dropped at some point, and I’d go back to working in the record store. I had already talked to my boss and told him I’d be back to work in a year or so.
Umbarger: The rest of us had both feet jumping in the deep end. We were pumped.
Rubberneck came out in August 1994, nearly a year after it was finished.
Reznicek: It came out in the middle of summer, and the label wasn’t as behind it as much as we thought they’d be. It was a huge deal at home. We had a big release party. But everywhere else, it wasn’t a big deal.
Santamaria: The record company was putting all of its resources toward acts taking off or that they felt had mass appeal. For me, it was a year of jumping up and down and screaming at them, “You have to do something with this band!”
Months passed and the record barely moved. The group toured, opening for alt-rock hot commodity Bush. Finally, a DJ in Florida heard Rubberneck and started playing nearly every track on a daily basis.
Lewis: This was back in the day when DJs could play what they wanted to play, and this guy started playing everything on the record. That started a fire, and it spread to LA and then to New York.
Before influential Los Angeles radio station KROQ would play the song — it wanted to play “Possum Kingdom” — the station required an edited version.
Reznicek: The label and the station told us it was too long.
Santamaria: It was definitely too long. I think it was a five-minute song. The guy in Florida was playing it, but for KROQ to play it, it needed to be shorter. If you could get a song on KROQ, you were set because every other alternative station in the country followed their lead. But the band wouldn’t trim it.
Reznicek: They cut it themselves and didn’t tell us.
Santamaria: I don’t think they were that mad when they were hanging platinum albums on their walls.
In all, there were six singles from Rubberneck, helping it sell more than a cool mil.
Reznicek: We were playing with bands like Foo Fighters, Sonic Youth, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Radiohead. We went on after Radiohead. That’s crazy!
Umbarger: Oh, yeah, and we were on MTV’s “120 Minutes.” One time, Todd and I hosted “120 Minutes.” I grew up watching MTV. That was a dream come true for me.
Fame had its price.
Herbert: I was tour managing; working the phones advancing the shows; dealing with the promoters, the label, the merch; and doing the bulk of the driving. I wore myself out, and it affected my relationship with the band. No one wants to get on stage and rock with the guy that got you up at 7 a.m. so that we could drive from El Paso to Sacramento for the 10th time.
Herbert was cut from the group and replaced by North Texas guitarist Clark Vogeler.
Umbarger: I loved Clark, but my one regret in the Toadies was seeing Darrel go and not saying something about it. We were just kinda a-- holes back then.
Interscope rejected the band’s second album, Feeler. Salvaging what they could from the Feeler sessions, they reentered
the studio to record Hell Below/Stars Above, released in 2001. Shortly thereafter, Umbarger quit the group, and Lewis dissolved the band.
Umbarger: There was no label support for the record. We were playing all these tiny clubs again. It just didn’t feel right. All the things that Todd was afraid were going to happen were happening. It was a very emotional time for me. It had been such a big part of my life, but I felt like it was the right thing to do.
Five years later, Lewis reassembled the band, and it’s been active ever since. Reznicek, Vogeler, and bassist Doni Blair are the current members.
Lewis: I’ve just kept going. We’re working on album No. 7 now. It’s still fun, but fun is a changing goal for me. Fun is being able to do music for a living and have people show up and listen to it.
Jerome: I will always be super grateful for that moment I had with the Toadies. Through all the stuff that happened, they’re still my brothers and sisters — these people I knew and loved and grew up with right here in Fort Worth.
Michael Jerome plays drums for multiple acts including Richard Thompson, Better Than Ezra, and Liz Wright. Guy Vaughn is a music executive at Warner Music in Los Angeles. Darrel Herbert works in the film industry in Hollywood. Madison Winchell, Lisa Umbarger, and Charles Mooney III play in a Fort Worth-based band called SolShifter. Tracy Sauerwein died in 2004. Ray Santamaria is now a therapist in California. Dan Lightner runs a record shop in Fort Worth called Panther City Vinyl. Terry Valderas is a local drummer and DJ.
Chaptico Pendant
2019 Dream Home: Walsh
This year’s Fort Worth Magazine Dream Home, a luxury contemporary hacienda under construction in West Fort Worth’s Walsh development, is nearing completion.
BY SCOTT NISHIMURA
Fort Worth Magazine’s Dream Home, a 5,542-square-foot luxury contemporary hacienda under construction by Sean Knight Custom Homes, is nearing completion on a bluff in the sprawling Walsh development in far West Fort Worth.
The home, at 13708 Nouvelle Circle in Walsh’s Cline Park custom section, is listed for sale by John Zimmerman of Compass at $1.585 million. It will be open for tours Sept. 28 – Oct. 20 to benefit a Wish with Wings, the magazine’s charity. Visitors to the home can purchase tickets at fwtx.com.
The home, the first in Walsh’s custom section to go under construction, sits by itself on a large lot surrounded by neighborhood streets and no next-door
neighbors. The home’s entry is on its east side, but virtually every space in the home is oriented toward the west and the spectacular sunsets to come over the Dream Home’s pool. “It’s positioned well,” Knight, the longtime luxury builder who started his career in high school, says. “You’re not ever going to lose view.”
It’s the latest in our years-long series of Dream Homes, in which the magazine collaborates with builders and some of the region’s finest vendors to build luxury homes sporting the latest features. Tammy McBee and Debbie Hundley, of The Design Center in Weatherford, are handling the Dream Home’s interior.
The Dream Home sports a stucco exterior, barrel tile roof, wood floors, arches, barrel vault ceilings, and pine ceiling
beams. As in transitional, contemporary, and modern design, traffic flow through the home is easy, with two living spaces opening into the kitchen and spilling onto the covered outdoor patio, kitchen, pool, and spa. The first level includes a master suite, with two-story hallway atrium entry. It also features a guest suite, formal dining room, and study.
The second floor has a game room with wet bar and covered balcony overlooking the pool, game room, half bath, and two bedrooms with full baths.
Big bonus is the Dream Home’s Walsh lifestyle-rich community, which includes fast Wi-Fi, an athletic club, lap and resort pools, neighborhood market and gas station, maker space, miles of hike and bike trails, parks, and recreational lagoon. Virtually all of the develop -
ment is in the Aledo Independent School District; the Mary D. & F. Howard Walsh Elementary School in the development has about 600 students today. Cook Children’s is under construction on a clinic in Walsh. Walsh has 527 residential lots in its first-phase section, built by production builders. It recently released the first 67 lots in its second planning area, which will have a total 553 lots. Prices will range from $300,000 to more than $1 million. The custom section will have 40 lots, and Walsh has released half to builders.
Luxury Living – Framed
Waterfalls. Lush
DREAM HOME VENDORS
Here are the partners participating in Fort Worth Magazine’s 2019 Dream Home at Walsh:
Builder: Sean Knight Custom Homes
Home plans: Grand Home Designs
Interior: The Design Center
Air and heat: Hobbs Heating and A/C
Appliances: Expressions Home Gallery
Countertops: KLZ Stone Supply
Door, front entry: Durango Doors
Door knobs: Fort Worth Lighting
Lighting, interior and outdoor: Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
Mirrors, glass and showers: Fashion Glass and Mirror
Personal injury lawyers are there for you in your time of need. When you have been injured, physically or psychologically, it’s the knowledge and expertise of a personal injury lawyer that can hold a responsible party accountable. In order to make sure you’re prepared in the unfortunate circumstance of needing a personal injury lawyer, the following attorneys want to tell you more about themselves.
The information in this section is provided by the advertisers and has not been independently verified by Fort Worth Magazine.
Greg Jackson Law
SPECIALTY: Personal injury (automobile/trucking accidents; medical malpractice; workplace injuries; boating accidents; slips, trips and falls; dog bites; brain injuries; defective products; cycling/pedestrian injuries; etc.).
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS: Baylor University, BBA, 1994; Baylor University School of Law, J.D., 1995; Board Certified, Personal Injury Trial Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization, 2001-present.
AWARDS/HONORS: Outstanding Young Lawyer of Tarrant County, 2006; Baylor Young Lawyer of the Year, 2005; AV Peer Review Rating, 2005-present; Texas Super Lawyer, 2009-2012, 2014-present.
MEMBERSHIPS/AFFILIATIONS: State Bar of Texas, Tarrant County Bar Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Association, American Bar Association, Texas Bar Foundation, Tarrant County Bar Foundation. GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Board certification after only six years of practice.
WHY HE CHOSE THE LEGAL FIELD: I wanted to fight for those unable to fight for themselves. APPROACH TO LAW: Take care of clients like they are family, fight for their rights to the limit of the law, conduct myself in a professional manner so as to bring honor to the legal profession. FREE ADVICE: Go to the hospital or see your doctor as soon as possible after an injury, even if you think the injury is minor. The injury may turn out to be more serious than you thought. Not seeing a health care provider early can be used against you later in the claims process.
PICTURED: Greg Jackson.
CONTACT INFORMATION: 201 Main St., Ste. 600 • Fort Worth, Texas 76102 817.926.1003 • Fax 817.886.3653 gjackson@gregjacksonlaw.com • gregjacksonlaw.com
Focus | Personal Injury l awyers
The Dent Law Firm
Dwain Dent
CONCENTRATION: Wrongful death, pharmaceutical, insurance and injury. EDUCATION: Dwain Dent – St. Mary’s School of Law and TCU undergraduate. REASON FOR BEING A LAWYER: He has a passion for fighting the giants, i.e., David versus Goliath. The law gives him an opportunity to help others. HISTORY: The Dent Law Firm, founded in 1990, has successfully represented thousands of clients in serious injury and death claims, claims against insurance companies, car wrecks, aviation and other personal injury cases. HONORS: Recognized Trial Lawyer of the Year Finalist, Trial Lawyers for Public Justice Foundation, Washington, D.C., 2011; Pre-eminent Lawyers in America; Who’s Who in American Law; Million-Dollar Advocate Forum Member; voted “Top Attorney” in Fort Worth Magazine, 2003 - present; voted “Texas Super
Lawyer” by Texas Monthly magazine every year since 2003; St. Mary’s Law School Distinguished Graduate, 2012; St. Mary’s Law School Hall of Fame, 2013; Recognized Best Lawyers in America. MOTTO: Represent clients with commitment, integrity and professionalism. ADVICE: “Never assume an insurance company will do the right thing.” SERVICE: The Dent Law Firm is dedicated to service and committed to supporting the Texas community, both professionally and personally.
CONTACT INFORMATION: 1120 Penn St. • Fort Worth, Texas 76102 817.332.2889 • thedentlawfirm@cs.com thedentlawfirm.com
food | news | reviews
» A spritz of Italy. The River District’s newest bistro feels like a quick trip to Capri. »
Gemelle
Location: 4400 White Settlement Road
For Info: 817.732.9535, gemelleftw.com
What We Liked: The vibrant atmosphere is well executed; you really want to soak it up. What We Didn’t: Parking can be tricky on a busy weekend, so get there early to get a space, and if you own a Vespa, I suggest you ride it — they actually have a few spaces reserved for those right by the front door.
Recommendations: The pizzas are great, but we recommend venturing to other corners of the menu, which include some unique and delicious options.
PHOTOS
An Italian Oasis
Tim Love’s latest is an Italian bistro with eccentric menu items that hit the right marks.
BY COURTNEY DABNEY
Prolific restaurateur and Fort Worth staple, Tim Love, has undoubtedly had an interesting career full of monumental successes and a few setbacks — such as his foray into the New York dining scene. His latest venture, Gemelle, has a home that could serve as a metaphor to the wellrenowned chef’s career.
The space, located at 4400 White Settlement Road, was once home to a succession of bars but has now been reenvisioned, revamped, and given new life as a quaint Italian bistro. A space that, not long ago, appeared on the downturn has become a bustling spot that feels like a quick trip to Capri.
Gemelle, which means “twin” in Italian, is named in honor of Love’s twin daughters and opened its doors at the end of May.
The inviting space is heavy on atmospherics and provides far more than just food to its patrons. The backyard feel — complete with bright orange Aperol umbrellas, loungers, and a raised kitchen garden — is also furnished with bocce ball, cornhole, pingpong, foosball, and a few Instagram-worthy spots to boot.
The wine list leans Italian, and the house drink, the Aperol Spritz, a prevalent beverage choice in Italy, is served either frozen or on the rocks. I sipped a Pink Negroni ($13) instead, which consists of equal parts Bombay Gin, Aperol (the nearly fluorescent herbal, Italian apéritif), and Dolin Blanc vermouth. I loved its bitter backbone, as sugary drinks are not
my favorite on a hot day.
My first course featured many ingredients fresh from the on-site gardens. The Quinoa Salad ($12), which featured a base of flash-fried red quinoa topped with fresh cauliflower and broccoli florets, limey avocado chunks, field greens, and radishes, is certainly worth a try. The crunchy quinoa, which had a soupcon of bacon flavor, was a delightful surprise.
Gemelle specializes in Detroit-style pizza. Breaking from the traditional pie form, the pizzas are cooked rectangularly and square cut; the pizza has a thick, crisp crust with burnt edges. We chose the meatless Spring Pizza ($12) topped with Italian asparagus, spring onion, goat cheese, and the occasional burst of lemon zest.
We also sampled the housemade pasta. The lobster spaghetti ($16) came soaked in a shell stock sauce with some Calabrian chili flakes for heat and a crown of micro basil. I was disappointed that the meat was actually langostino (which is more akin to shrimp or crawfish in both flavor and texture). I would have been happier with three chunks of tender lobster meat than with all the chewy langostino.
The rich and creamy Butterscotch Budino ($10) provided a decadent ending. This layered custard dessert is a butterscotch bomb and way too rich for one person to consider consuming on their own. The sweet caramel sauce topping is tempered with a healthy dose of sea salt and a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream.
CREAMY LEMON PASTA
The only thing better than comfort food is comfort food that’s vegan. Spiral Diner’s blue plate special this month takes rotini pasta and tosses it in a sauce made with cashew cream. The dish comes together with a medley of red potatoes, broccoli, carrots, olives, zucchini, and capers — finished off with a splash of lemon and grilled asparagus for the topper.
1314 W. Magnolia Ave. 817.332.8834
spiraldiner.com
The Feed
A taste of what’s new and notable.
BY MALCOLM MAYHEW
Downtown will soon be home to a new luxury hotel and an equally luxurious steakhouse. A Marriott Autograph Collection property, the Sinclair Hotel will open this fall on Main Street in the Sinclair Building. The hotel’s primary dining option will be a chef-driven steakhouse, called Wicked Butcher, from Dallas-based DRG Concepts. The company is also behind Chop House Burger and Wild Salsa, both located in the northwest pocket of downtown. Wicked Butcher’s menu will feature domestic and international premium cuts of beef, including showboaty items such as double-rib steak for two, served tableside. Seafood will also be prominently featured, with items such as sushi, oysters, lobster, and swordfish. A wine program will feature bottles from around the globe. Up 17 flights will be a rooftop bar, offering drinks, light bites, and Insta-worthy views of downtown. 512 Main St., marriott.com.
Also coming to downtown, possibly late September/ early October, will be Neighbor’s House Grocery, a chef-driven grocery store located on the ground floor of the First on 7th building. Owners/chefs Ashlee and Kyle Cowan will offer fresh produce, prepared meals, cold-pressed juices, and specialty items, along with products from national brands. For breakfast, look for tacos stuffed with eggs, brisket, and grilled veggies; egg sandwiches with Pearl Snap kolaches for buns; and breakfast quiche. Lunch items will include rotating soups and sandwiches. Toasts, smoothies, and grain and fruit bowls from Rollin’ and Bowlin’ will also be up for grabs.
500 W. Seventh St., neighborshousegrocery.com.
A restaurant devoted to Cajun-style seafood boils is now open in north Fort Worth. Krab Kingz started out nearly four years ago
as a food truck, which developed a following for its huge platters of snow crab, sausage, shrimp, corn on the cob, and potatoes, all cooked in a ridiculously good garlic butter sauce, then dusted with seasoning. Their new brick-and-mortar features an expanded menu that includes fried lobster tails, po’boys, gumbos, pastas, and salads. The Fort Worth outpost is part of the expanding Krab Kingz empire, founded by Florida native-turnedTexan Brandon Martin. The company now has nearly a dozen trucks and restaurants. 5250 North Tarrant Parkway, 682.760.9003.
I’m a big breakfast guy — figuratively, literally — so this bit of news hits home: Spiral Diner has expanded its breakfast hours. Breakfast is now being served daily, starting at 7 a.m. (except Monday, when the restaurant is closed). In other words, you no longer have to wait until the weekends to enjoy
their incredible pancakes. Other breakfast items include housemade biscuits (with or without gravy, although always get it with), breakfast tacos, veggie bowls, tofu scrambles, and various pastries.
1314 W. Magnolia Ave., spiraldiner.com.
A second location of gourmet comfort food spot Chef Point has opened in Colleyville in the old Gator’s Café building. The original Chef Point, opened by Franson Nwaeze and Paula Merrell in a gas station in Watauga, became a sensation in 2011 following an appearance on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” The new location will offer the same menu, including “Better Than Sex” fried chicken, duck l’orange, lobster mac and cheese, and a $35 Bloody Mary, which comes decorated with fried chicken, grilled shrimp, waffle fries, bacon, and hamburger sliders. 5200 Highway 121, chefpointcafe.org.
Freelance food writer Malcolm Mayhew can be reached at malcolm.mayhew@hotmail.com or on Twitter at @foodfortworth.
My editor is starting to get irritated with me for writing about barbecue so much, so of course I’m going to continue. Panther City BBQ’s new home — a cool indoor/outdoor shed built by Near Southside architecture firm 97W — could be up and running by September/October. It’ll be next to where their truck is parked now, in the empty lot next to Republic Street Bar. Dayne’s Craft BBQ has nixed moving into the old Americado building and will instead serve out of Lola’s Saloon every Saturday starting Aug. 28. And finally, major kudos to Derek Allan’s Texas BBQ, the latest Fort Worth ‘cue joint to wow BBQ Snob Daniel Vaughn. Vaughn wrote a long and highly favorable review of the new Near Southside spot, zeroing in specifically on the restaurant’s Wagyu brisket and sausage. Vaughn called the lean brisket “incredible.” 1116 Eighth Ave., derekallansbbq.com.
A Monster Pop-Up
Adrian Hulet’s new pop-up, FrankenKitchen, feels like something cooked up by a mad scientist, and we mean that in all the best ways.
BY MALCOLM MAYHEW
Over the past few years, Fort Worth’s pop-up restaurant scene has grown to near immeasurable heights. Right this second, there’s a pop-up happening in a parking lot, bar or brewery, another restaurant — wherever, it seems, there’s enough space for someone to cook and you to eat.
For his own recently launched pop-up series, Adrian Hulet had a more personal setting in mind: his own backyard.
The 36-year-old North Texas native, musician, and passionate foodie is the founder of FrankenKitchen, a new pop-up event that Hulet and his wife, Hildy, host at their southwest Fort Worth home.
For each event, Hulet brings together three local chefs to create a meal of their
choosing. Past participants include Fabián Alvarado of CevichiFW, Butler’s Cabinet chef Josh Harmon, and pop-up superstar Hao Tran. Chefs adhere to one cool caveat: They use Hulet’s “kitchen,” a collection of mismatched cooking equipment that Hulet has amassed over the years. “It really does look like some sort of madscientist lab,” he says. Hence the name, “FrankenKitchen.”
Before the next event on Sept. 26, featuring chefs Jen Williams, Andrew Dilda, and Marcus Kopplin, Hulet chatted with us about this one-of-a-kind cookout.
Q: This has gotta be one of the craziest things I’ve ever heard. How did it get started?
A: In 2012, I was freshly married, with a
newborn baby, and transitioning out of a lifestyle of touring with my band Oso Closo. I was an artist but not a starving one. I weighed in at that time around 330 pounds, and I knew with my new lot in life, I’d better try to get healthy. I began the long road to dropping over 100 pounds over the next few years. The transformation had innumerable benefits, but one of the most significant is that I started the process of becoming what I’d call a “real” cook.
My wife and I started talking about the prospect of opening a restaurant [but] ultimately my interests shifted into finding and developing relationships with local restaurateurs and chefs. I started a little foodie page called Fort Worth Mom and Pops. When I started building the FrankenKitchen, it was really just a crazy idea for a summer project, but as I was posting progress reports on social media, all these chefs I had befriended through my Facebook page started asking about when they could come and play with my new toy. That’s really how this whole thing got started.
Q: What’s the FrankenKitchen made of?
A: It’s a full outdoor kitchen on wheels. It has an offset wood fire smoker, a five-foot gas grill, a range, a flat top, a deep fryer, and a big huge butcher block work space, all set into a 5-by-8 steel frame.
Q: You like kitchen equipment like I like old Rush records.
A: I am a bit of a kitchen gear collector. It’s probably the only area in my life where I border on being a hoarder. If I’m in a flea market or at a garage sale and see a piece of commercial kitchen equipment, I pretty much can’t resist.
Q: How do people get invited to these things?
A: They’re free to attend, but you have to get the invite, and at a 50-person cap, it ends up being a bit of a hot ticket. Follow Fort Worth Mom and Pops on Facebook and Instagram and send us a direct message requesting an invitation. Spots for each event fill up fast, so please bear with us. There are many events to come, and we’d love to have you. We’re always
looking for sponsors and like-minded partners, too. It’s all about creating a community that supports one another.
Q: Some say food is the new rock ´n´ roll. Having spent time in both worlds, what do you think the parallels are between music and food?
A: Creativity, collaboration, improvisation, connection to people, emotional response. These are all commonalities between the experience of writing and performing music and creating and preparing food for people. Something that has occurred to me lately is that throwing dinner events is really similar to throwing rock shows. All of the same facilitating is essentially there. Dealing with schedules, accommodations, quirky artists, money, promotion — it’s really similar to when I was a kid in an indie rock band. The difference is that now I’m a little older, a little smarter, and have a lot more relationships that fit into the vision of what I’m doing. It’s been a smooth transition getting into this kind of thing, and I’m really excited to see where it leads.
The Hulets’ FrankenKitchen lives in their backyard, built from mismatched cooking equipment.
» This calls for a prost. Ready your steins — Panther Island’s annual Oktoberfest is upon us once again.
Man & Woman of the Year
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society held its annual Man & Woman of the Year Grand Finale Celebration on June 7 at Mopac Event Center. Everett Dunkley and Rebecca Tucker were named the 2019 Fort Worth Man & Woman of the Year.
Don Armstrong, Stacey Campbell
Rebecca Tucker, Lauren Pulido Piccinini, Kaitlyn Johnson
Everett Dunkley, Anthony Villareal
Todd Miller, Leah Swanson, Lisa Powers Miller
Lance & Kelsey Thompson
John Balod, Daryl Balod, Mitchell Balod, Jennifer Emerson, Darrell Emerson
PHOTOS BY DANA DRIENSKY
Round-Up
Wings of Hope’s Round-Up for Riders took place Aug. 2 at River Ranch Stockyards. The dinner and silent and live auctions raised funds to support the equestrians of Wings of Hope Equitherapy.
Beat Leukemia Ball
Leukemia Texas exceeded its goal by raising close to $400,000 at the Omni on May 18. Brad Sham, the Voice of the Dallas Cowboys, was emcee, and entertainment was by the Fab Four, the greatest Beatles Tribute Band.
Lisa Nussbaum, Molly Snyder
Julie & Seth Rivard
Leighton Austin, Lydia Wimberley
PHOTOS BY WINGS OF HOPE // LEUKEMIA TEXAS
Jonathan & Lori Doll, Jay Cresswell
Ayesha Ganguly, Anish Ray
Greg & Janet Anderson Ken & Jennie Heym
SEPT.
6– 8 That Woman!
A play about one controversial, royal engagement, starring Fort Worthian Melissa Jobe.
Fort Worth Community Arts Center 1300 Gendy St., 817.738.1938, fwcac.com SEPT.
14
Salty Lady 5-Year Anniversary Party
A party featuring more than 15 variations of the iconic Fort Worthborn brew on tap.
Martin House Brewing Company 220 S. Sylvania Ave., Ste. 209, 817.222.0177, martinhousebrewing.com things to do in
SEPT. 14
Chalk Art Festival
Chalk art doesn’t often find its way out of the driveway, but this Crockett Row festival thinks otherwise. While professional street artists etch out elaborate designs on the sidewalks, kids — and kids at heart — can grab a pack of chalk and do the same. Also check out the interactive photo booth, live music, games, and prizes.
Crockett Row at West 7th. 816 Foch St., 817.810.9076, crockettrow.com
SEPT.
14
Party on the Porch
Abraham Alexander and The Band of Heathens play The Carter’s annual outdoor concert.
Amon Carter Museum of American Art 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817.738.1933, cartermuseum.org
SEPT.
14 –15
Spooky Spectacle 2019
An indoor festival of creepy cosplayers, ghosts, aliens, and paranormal activities.
Will Rogers Memorial Center 3401 W. Lancaster Ave., 817.559.0849, spookyspectacle.com
20
Ash’Lee
SEPT.
Frame 4 Frame Festival
Arlington festival celebrating local and independent films, visual arts, and music.
Multiple venues. See website for details. 817.823.4554, frame4frame.org
SEPT. 20
PARK(ing) Day
The Near Southside turns ordinary parking spaces into community hangout spots.
Near Southside
Magnolia Avenue and South Main Street, 682.703.2527, nearsouthsidefw.org SEPT.
21
Trinity Trash Bash
Clean up the Trinity River, then party at Coyote Drive-In.
Multiple locations. See website for info. 817.335.2491, trwd.com SEPT.
21 6-Pack Trail
A 10-mile bike cruise — with brews.
BREWED 801 W. Magnolia Ave., 6packtrail.com
Michael Bolton: The Symphony Sessions
One night only, the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra will back up Grammy Award-winning crooner Michael Bolton. Expect a showcase of his greatest love ballads and other hits from his storied career — here’s to hoping “Time, Love, and Tenderness” and “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” are on the set.
SEPT.
21
Wheels for Wellness
Rev it up downtown at this benefit car show aiding cancer patients and survivors.
Downtown Fort Worth Seventh and Main streets, wheelsforwellness.org
Bass Performance Hall 525 Commerce St., 817.665.6000, fwsymphony.org
Priscilla (CrystalHeavenly) in Ya’Ke Smith’s “Heavenly”
Red Carpet Grand Opening Event
Thursday Sept. 5th from 6pm-9pm at 4601 W Freeway, Suite 216 Fort Worth, Texas 76107
Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center invites you to join us at our Red Carpet Grand Opening event.
• Live Demos • Celebrity Appearances
• Gift Bags for first 25 guests • Amazing one night only Specials
• Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres • Cocktail attire required
• Bring a donation of 5 socks or undergarment items, for male or female, and get 10 units of Botox or 25 units of Dysport free
• RSVP required
• Ultherapy – The non-surgical face lift. 1st area $1,499 and 2nd area $899 (reg. $2499)
• Coolsculpting – Non-invasive permanent fat reduction 40% off
• Hormone Therapy Assessment $99
Joanna Krupa
Dean Cain
SEPT.
SEPT.
22
2019 Texas Country Music Awards
Stars like Curtis Grimes, Cory Morrow, and Holly Tucker perform at country music’s biggest night — in Texas.
Billy Bob’s Texas 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817.624.7117, billybobstexas.com
SEPT. 24 – OCT. 5
Oktoberfest Fort Worth
Enjoy all things German, from dachshund races to craft beer, at Panther Island Pavilion.
Panther Island Pavilion 395 Purcey St., 817.698.0700, oktoberfestfw.com
OCT.
1
Tarrant County Pride 36th Anniversary
Celebrate the LGBTQ community at this colorful Fort Worth Water Gardens festival.
Fort Worth Water Gardens 1502 Commerce St., 817.921.3318, tcgpwa.org
“The Phantom of the Opera” at Bass
Hall
With a 52-person cast and crew, one of the largest touring productions of “The Phantom of the Opera” is paying a visit to Bass Hall starting this month — with new staging, choreography, and special effects to boot. Acclaimed Broadway actor Derrick Davis will play the title role as the infamous, disfigured composer who seeks the affection of a talented soprano.
OCT.
5 Pups and Pints Trail Run Run a 5K, 10K, or half-marathon with your four-legged friend.
MUTTS Canine Cantina 5317 Clearfork Main St., 817.377.0151, ultraexpeditions.com
Explore the history of a uniquely American art form in Ken Burns’ new documentary series, Country Music , on KERA TV. From its deep and tangled roots in ballads, blues and hymns performed in small settings, to its worldwide popularity, learn how country music evolved over the course of the 20th century. Go for never-beforeseen footage and photographs. Go for interviews with more than 80 country music artists. Go for the story of country music as it’s never been told before. Go Public .
COUNTRY MUSIC
SEPTEMBER 15-18 & 22-25
OUR CHARITY PARTNERSHIPS
THIS MONTH:
SEPT. 13
Wild Game Dinner
Ronald McDonald House
SEPT. 14
Party for Paws
Humane Society of North Texas
SEPT. 19
Hearts of Gold Luncheon
Rutledge Foundation
SEPT. 19
Feast in the Fort The Parenting Center
Give Back Calendar
SEPT. 26
Signature Chefs March of Dimes
SEPT. 28 – Oct. 20
Fort Worth Magazine Dream Home Touring a Wish with Wings
OCT. 1
Dinner Under the Stars Rivertree Academy
OCT. 2
The Year of Botanical Art BRIT
OCT. 2
Annual Leap Frog for KinderFrogs Event KinderFrogs
OCT. 3
Beyond the Bag
All Saints Health Foundation
Baylor Scott & White
OCT. 4
Cowtown Ball American Cancer Society
OCT. 10 – 13
Christmas in Cowtown
Holiday Gift Market
Junior League of Fort Worth
OCT. 11
Celebrating Women Luncheon
Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation
OCT. 11
Day of the Girl Girls Inc.
OCT. 15
Public Figures Private Artists The Art Station
OCT. 18
Legacy of Women SafeHaven
OCT. 19
Kitchens Tour a Wish with Wings
OCT. 25
Monster Music Mash The Women’s Center
OCT. 27
BoobieQue Cancer Care Services
Give Back Calendar
There’s nothing more rewarding than giving back and making a difference in the lives of people in this great community. As the city’s magazine — which has the eyes and ears of some of Fort Worth’s most affluent and philanthropic citizens — we feel a responsibility to give back to the people of the city that is our namesake, which is why Philanthropy is one of our core values.
Every year, Fort Worth Magazine sponsors more than 100 charity events, which range from luncheons to black-tie galas. The following promotional section is devoted to these charities and their fundraisers. We invite you to consciously peruse and consider lending a helping hand by either making a donation or attending these events.
hoot`n holler
Join te Celebration ! Wednesday November 6, 2019
REATA RESTAURANT
310 HOUSTON STREET
Cocktails on the rooftop at 6 p.m. followed by an award-winning meal
We would like to thank our wonderful chairs and sponsors who are helping children who live in ACH residential programs.
To join in their mission to make Fort Worth a safer place for all children to thrive, visit ACHservices.org/hoot-n-holler or contact Jenna at 817.566.1613 or jenna.chaffee@ACHservices.org.
Tickets and sponsorships are available.
For more than a century, ACH Child and Family Services has
Celebrity Cutting
PRINT IS MEMORABLE.
Print creates an emotional connection.
Print builds relationships.
Physical material is more “real” to the brain, involves more emotional processing, is better connected to memory, with greater internalization of ads — all important for brand associations. (FORBES)
817.735.3811 yourpetstaff.com
Mobile Grooming • Pet Sitting • Dog Walking
AN ARTISTS’ CHRISTMAS ART AUCTION & GALA
Celebrating a Community Treasure
Art lovers and Camp Fire supporters join together for the 35th anniversary of this one-of-a-kind event featuring original paintings, jewelry and 3-D art from North Texas artists. Plus, silent and live auctions.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2019
The Reserve at the Fort Worth Zoo 6:00 p.m. Cocktails & Art Auction Begins Jade, Gems and Jeans Attire
Honor Chairs: Rosa Navejar and Rachel Navejar Phillips Event Chair: Lisa D. Mares
Table Sales and Individual Tickets Now Available CampFireFW.org/AnArtistsChristmas/ 817.831.2111
SPONSORS
Anne T. and Robert M. Bass
Sue Holland | The Rios Group, Inc. | Drenda and John Witt 92.1 Hank FM | 95.9 FM The Ranch Fort Worth Business Press | Fort Worth Magazine
Sue Fort Wor t nda R anch r th
Stars, Stetsons and Cowtown
Cowtown Ball, an American Cancer Society 26-year tradition that has raised more than $7 million for research, awareness projects and cancer initiatives, is set for Oct. 4 at Whiskey Ranch, home to Firestone & Robertson Distilling Company.
The grounds of the former Glen Garden Country Club and its historic golf course will be transformed for a night of “Stars and Stetsons.” Fort Worth volunteers Carlee Hughes and Christinna Oldham are chairing the 26th anniversary ball, which will have Fort Worth’s skyline as its backdrop.
Planning dining and dancing under the Fort Worth stars at the spacious outdoor venue for this charity event, the pair are sure this year’s Cowtown Ball will be a success.
Reckless Kelly will provide the entertainment for dancing under the Fort Worth stars on Oct. 4 at Cowtown Ball.
American Cancer Society Facts
• The Society has funded more than $4.8 billion in research projects since 1946.
• In 2019, the Society is providing $7.3 million for 12 grants in north Texas.
• Help is available 24/7 through the American Cancer Society’s free help line at 1-800-227-2345.
• 1,699 patients in Tarrant County received American Cancer Society services last year.
“It’s a great honor to co-chair Cowtown Ball this year,” Christinna said. “It’s wonderful to see my own community contribute to such a tremendous cause. The support and growth Cowtown Ball has had this year is proof that Cowtown truly is stronger than cancer and we’re fighting back as a community.”
The gala will include an evening of live and silent auction items. Fort Worth chef Juan Rodriguez of Magdalena’s is preparing a dinner buffet.
Guests should also expect innovative fundraising. They will have the opportunity to purchase Gund® teddy bears that they can keep or to donate to
pediatric patients. As part of the Yellow Rose of Research, guests can also buy yellow roses to display during the ball in memory of or in tribute to a loved one.
The Alan Luskey Family will serve as the ball’s honorees in tribute to Luskey, the third generation behind Luskey’s Western Wear, his family business, long a fixture in Cowtown. Luskey, who attended last year’s Cowtown Ball, died April 11 this year from pancreatic cancer, a reminder of the need for more cancer research.
“Having lived and loved well, Alan Dean Luskey reluctantly released his hold on life,” read his obituary this spring in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
“The Luskey family has been an integral part of Fort Worth, and we are truly grateful for their participation and support for this worthy cause,” said Carlee, whose mother died of pancreatic and colon cancer. “Alan’s early passing of this cancer hopefully will encourage people to donate to the American Cancer Society to support more research to find a cure for all cancers.”
A vital part of this year’s event will be a revenue-generating “paddle raise” to support life-saving research. Exceptional projects, vetted by the American Cancer Society with its track record of funding 47 Nobel Prize-winning researchers, are sidelined each year just because of
budgetary shortfalls. Through the paddle raise, the 2019 Cowtown Ball hopes to fund one of these projects.
As always, the western chicattired guests expect a fun dance band, and country rock entertainers Reckless Kelly will headline the 2019 event. Front men Cody and Willy Braun grew up traveling in their father’s band, Muzzie Braun and the Boys, which shared stages with Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell and Merle Haggard. After more than two decades as Reckless Kelly, the band can boast a string of hits, including 2013’s Grammywinning “Long Night Moon.”
Table sales are underway now. Sponsorships start at $5,000 and tables at $3,000, with individual tickets sold at $250. For more details, contact the American Cancer Society Fort Worth Office at 817-737-9992 or email loren. baker@cancer.org. Information also is available on the website cowtownball.org
2019 Cowtown Ball Co-chairs Carlee Hughes and Christinna Oldham
The 2019 Cowtown Ball steering committee is comprised of Michele Hahnfeld, Blair Cantrell, April Gwin, Lauren Muckleroy, Laura Hamilton, Christinna Oldham, Carlee Hughes, Christian Burton, Virginia Durham, Cortney Pelley, Sara Walters and Robin Greenhaw. Not Pictured: Jane Berkowitz, Lauren Foster, Robin Froeschke, Darla Greene, Merrill Rhynsburger
The Alan Luskey Family will serve as the ball’s honorees
Feast in the Fort
Enjoy delicious food curated by Chef Jon Bonnell and unforgettable entertainment with the Jordan Kahn Orchestra at BRIK.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 TH
Simply by touring the beautiful homes of Walsh and treating yourself to incredible bites from some of the best chefs in Fort Worth, you can help us grant magical wishes for young Texans with lifethreatening
Visit homes by: Britton Homes, David Weekley Homes, Drees Custom Homes, Highland Homes, To ll Bro thers, Vil lage Homes, MK Homes, Glendarroch Homes, HGC Residential Development, and Sean Knight Custom Homes
HOLIDAY GIFT MARKET
OCTOBER 10 - 13, 2019 WILL ROGERS MEMORIAL CENTER
SPECIAL EVENTS
COCKTAILS IN COWTOWN PREVIEW PARTY
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9 - 6 P.M.
MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT PRIVATE SHOPPING & BRUNCH
SPONSORED BY COOK CHILDREN’S THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10 - 9 A.M. give back
COST: $20 tour ticket (includes a 1-year subscription to Fort Worth Magazine)* *For each subscription, Fort Worth Magazine will donate $10 to a Wish with Wings
PURCHASE TICKETS: fwtx.com/dream-home-2019
close
» Michael Miller was taking a break from social media the week he took this photo. The Magnolia Avenue art piece, crafted by local woodworker Brandon Pederson of Brother Sister Design, seemed to resonate with Miller’s disposition. “He reminds me to make room for contemplation and silence — actively choosing not to fill my environment with noise every single minute of the day just because it’s comfortable,” Miller says. “Life is best lived with clarity, and we can’t achieve clarity without introspection.”
If you’re a local photographer — or just have a cool shot of Fort Worth — send us your photo at fwtx.com/photo-submission for a chance to be featured on this page.
To subscribe, visit fwtx.com/subscribe
PHOTO BY MICHAEL MILLER @mic.hl
WHAT DOES A GREAT REAL ESTATE AGENT DO FOR YOU? KNOWS THE NEIGHBORHOOD. RESPECTS YOUR TIME. ANALYZES THE COMPETITION. MAKES EVERY ENCOUNTER A PLEASURE. MEASURES THE ROOMS. SUGGESTS THE IDEAL PRICE. TELLS IT LIKE IT IS. MAKES THE PHOTO SHOOT FUN. GIVES YOU OPTIONS. COORDINATES THOSE VITAL REPAIRS. KNOWS WHAT YOU LIKE. HANDLES THE PESKY PAPERWORK. TRACKS CRITICAL DATES. PUTS THE SIGN WHERE IT’LL BE SEEN. KNOWS A GREAT LAWN COMPANY. TAKES CARE OF EVERYTHING. WRITES A WONDERFUL DESCRIPTION. PLANS STRATEGIC SOCIAL MEDIA. LOOKS TO THE FUTURE. CREATES BROCHURES. CREATES POSTCARDS. HOLDS HIGH-VISIBILITY OPEN HOUSES. TARGETS EVERY KEY AUDIENCE. LAUGHS WITH YOU. LISTENS INTENTLY. COMMUNICATES EVERY NUANCE. INTERPRETS ALL THE MYSTERIES. KNOWS HOW TO GET RESULTS. TELLS EVERYONE ABOUT YOUR PROPERTY. CREATES DIGITAL ADS. CREATES PRINT ADS. CREATES BUZZ. SENDS THE CONTRACT TO THE TITLE COMPANY. HOSTS A PARTY FOR POTENTIAL BUYERS. REVIEWS EVERY OFFER. ANALYZES EVERY TERM. NEGOTIATES LIKE A LINEBACKER. UNDERSTANDS THE APPRAISAL. CHECKS ON ALL THE FINANCING. MANAGES THE INSPECTION. MEETS YOU FOR COFFEE. MANAGES MORE PAPERWORK. NEVER LOSES THEIR COOL. NEVER LOSES SIGHT OF YOUR GOALS. MAKES ALL THE FINAL APPOINTMENTS. GETS YOU THROUGH THE CLOSING WITH APLOMB. HIGH-FIVES YOU IN THE HALL. CHANGES THE YARD SIGN TO SOLD.
Art
in Motion
Suzie and Ray Larson believe some classic cars are kinetic art. “When you observe great cars at rest or in motion, it feels like your heart skips a beat, it activates your imagination and takes you to a wonderful place,” said the Coppell residents, who built family businesses in health care software and media. Car collectors since 2014, they enjoy classic car events, especially in Phoenix, Amelia Island, and Pebble Beach. Their 1964 Aston Martin DB5, like the James Bond “Goldfinger” car, is entered in the upcoming Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase. “We’re excited that Park Place has created the Collectors’ Concours Invitational Car Show,” Ray Larson said. “As the event evolves, it will become one of the great things to do in DFW.”
Though they’ve bought numerous vehicles from Park Place — most frequently from Park Place
Grapevine locations and most recently from Jaguar Land Rover DFW — one of the most unique purchases was a 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS GT. “Mercedes hasn’t put gullwing doors on a car since the 1950s 300SL,” Ray Larson said. “We’ll be keeping this one for a while.”
“Park Place is ‘My Place,’” Ray Larson said, “because it’s always exhilarating buying a new car, and working with Park Place makes it feel even more special. They carry the brands we’re most interested in. The sales staff is knowledgeable and fun; the service staff is attentive and outstanding.”
