Events in Denton

Celebrate the tradition and fun at the 19^th Annual Dog Days of Denton Celebration on Friday, June 1st and Saturday, June 2nd.   Relax in the evening shade of north Quakertown Park on Friday night as the festival brings back “yappy” hour from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and start the fun again on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m..

“We will continue our Friday night hours, and we saw an increase in attendance on Friday night last year due to the cooler evening temperatures,” said Christine Gossett, co-director for the Dog Days of Denton Celebration.  “We also plan to continue expanding our cool zone and rest areas for all to enjoy.”      

In addition to festival fun, Dog Days of Denton features educational programs with a spotlight this year on the Lions’ Club Leader Dog Program – a service dog program for the seeing-impaired.  Tammy Freeman with her leader dog, an English Black Lab named Vince, will share her story about how she benefitted from the Lions’ Club program and the importance of this special bond between canines and humans.  Sandy Griffin, a Leader Dog trainer, will also talk about what is involved in preparing dogs for service.  A portion of the proceeds from the hot dog and water sales at this year’s event will go to the Lions’ Club Leader Dog Program. 

The same traditional fun will happen on both Friday night and Saturday, with some activities and contests featured on Friday or Saturday only. The “Heinz 57” Contest is on Friday night, with several fun categories for any pooch of any mix or breed to compete in several categories ranging from curliest tail to longest tongue.  Attendees can also learn about various breeds and pet care tips on Friday and Saturday, as well as see canine training and sport demonstrations.  Returning again this year are the Dallas Dog ‘n Disc, TC Cappel Dancing with the Dogs (Freestyle) and Texas Heat Flyball with demonstrations on Friday and Saturday. The “Glamfur” photos, creative arts/crafts items for both canines and their owners, games for kids and canines, pet care information, pet adoptions and rescues, festival foods and more will also be featured Friday night & Saturday.

Saturday’s festivities start off with a Canine Couture Fashion Parade, more demonstrations, presentations, and the traditional canine contests including Pet Tricks, Dog Singing, and the popular Spokesdog Pageant between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 2 p.m..  For 2012 Spokesdog Pageant entry guidelines and a complete schedule for the weekend, including contests, entertainment, demonstrations and more, please visit the website www.dogdaysdenton.com.  

The Dog Days of Denton Celebration will be held in the north end of Quakertown Park at 321 E. McKinney Street in downtown Denton.  General admission to the event is FREE.  Friendly, non-aggressive dogs are welcome. The Dog Days of Denton Celebration requires that ALL dogs be kept on a leash and controlled by their owners. Owners are responsible for their dogs’ behavior.  Dogs need to have current vaccinations. For more information on the event, please visit www.dogdaysdenton.com. Dog Days of Denton – where fun and responsible pet ownership and care come together.

Dog Days is presented by Denton Record-Chronicle, City of Denton, Denton County Animal ER, Invisible Fence of Greater Dallas, and Huffines, with the support of Muenster Milling and Southridge Animal Hospital. Dog Days of Denton is a not for profit 501 (c) (3).  

For pet-friendly overnight accommodations, please check the www.dogdaysdenton.com website or visit www.discoverdenton.com.      

The Texas Travel Fair, produced and sponsored by the Texas Travel Industry Association of Texas during the Texas Travel Counselors Conference (TTCC) sponsored by the Texas Department of Transportation - Travel Information Division, represents one of the premier showcase opportunities for Texas destinations.  Held this past April in Waco, the Travel Fair is a trade show targeting Texas Department of Transportation officials, Texas Travel Counselors from the 12 Texas Travel Information Centers at Texas points of entry, and Texas Parks & Wildlife officials.  

In attendance are more than 100 travel counselors along with another 100 visitor center managers and AAA office representatives from around the state of Texas.  These professionals give guidance to more than four million travelers to Texas each year. 

During the expo showcasing Texas cities and attractions, Kim Phillips, Chamber Vice President and Director of the Denton CVB invited attendees to “get on board” with Denton’s newest form of transportation, the A-train.  

While visiting Denton CVB’s exhibit, travel counselors and managers received a squeezy A-train and Kim had an opportunity to talk about Denton County Transportation Authority’s train amenities, schedule and train stations.   She also gave updates on attractions, entertainment, special events, and accommodations in Denton.  New and existing collateral materials including the Horse Country Tour brochure, Hip to be Square brochure, and the Denton Live magazine were also on display. 

Counselors and managers were excited to learn about Denton’s new mode of transportation.  Easier travel between Dallas and Denton will be a huge hit when they pass it along to the thousands of visitors passing through their centers throughout the year. 

Ever wondered who the people are that make the Arts & Jazz Festival Denton’s jazziest event? Top Hands, that’s who!  Top Hands work behind the scenes making sure the festival machine runs so smoothly the massive event is a seamless success to everyone including festival-goers, performers, artists, and vendors.  They are the feet on the ground; they are the heart and the soul.  Their dedication is, in fact, the magic ingredient that has garnered international recognition for the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival.

The Denton Festival Foundation works year-round to secure top-billing musicians and artists, funded in large part by Foundation membership contributions.  These same members are also the ones who roll up their sleeves to cook, sell food and drinks, peddle the coveted Jazz Festival collectible souvenirs, and help visitors maneuver the festival grounds.

Top Hands Chair Carrell Ann Simmons knows well every step of the road to the Jazz Festival’s well-deserved fame.   Vice President and Branch Manager for Meridian Bank of Texas in Denton, Carrell Ann has called Denton home for the past 26 years.  A 10-year volunteer veteran of the Denton Festival Foundation, Carrell Ann and her leadership team of six of the toppest of the Top Hands head up the entire volunteer force from recruiting to assignment.   With this year’s grounds expansion, that volunteer force will fill about 700 individual slots in the vast schedule of events and tasks.  “It’s a lot of work for sure; but we work as a team and have a blast doing it.  Really, Top Hands are the best recruiters because friends, family and coworkers see just how much fun Top Hands are having and they want to get in on it,” Carrell Ann exclaimed.   Local businesses have even anted up for booth space at the festival just because of the eager involvement by their employees. 

Higginbotham and Associates is an example of one such business that has already confirmed with Arts & Jazz organizers that they will staff a booth with 12 employees.  Ed Coker, Managing Director of the Higginbotham Denton office, is looking forward to their Top Hand membership experience.  “It is Higginbotham’s corporate philosophy to give back to the community.  Volunteering to work a booth at the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival not only helps achieve this goal but is a great team building opportunity for the office.  Most of all, we have a great time!”

While membership is only $15 per person per year, Top Hands take pride in the knowledge that their memberships, combined with sponsorships, help bring Lou Ritenour, Los Lonely Boys and Brave Combo to the Jazz Stage at the Arts & Jazz Festival.  “Top Hands are the backbone of the festival,” says Carrell Ann, adding that their membership dues are significant because collectively, they are a major festival sponsor.   

Top Hands Headquarters (the Denton Women’s Building) provides a place to sit, rest, cool off and make new friends.  Creating memories and being with friends is a top motivator for Top Hands returning year after year.  Families like father and son team Larry and Andy Whitlock have made volunteering at the festival a tradition for the past 13 years.

After retiring from the Air Force, Mr. Whitlock moved his family to Denton.   At the recommendation of church friend Jackie Jackson, Mr. Whitlock and then 18 year old Andy signed up as Top Hands to meet and make new friends.  “We like the music, the people we work with and we love seeing the smiles on attendees’ faces” says Whitlock.  “You don’t have to be a business person or college professor to volunteer.  It’s just the general public doing what they can to bring visitors to town.  As for requirements,” he adds, “you do have to be a people person and you have to smile.  You can’t sell your town without a smile.”

It takes time and energy to be a Top Hand and it’s no secret that time is a highly-valued commodity.  Carrell Ann’s reminder really hits home. “If you enjoy free and fun events and don’t invest some of your own time to keep them going, then eventually they’ll go away.   Just one 3-hour shift can make a huge difference!  And the work is fun because festival organizers make sure Arts & Jazz is organized and well run at every level.” 

The rewards are fulfilling.  According to Carrell Ann, the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival is one of the happiest things that happen in Denton.  “It’s not just one sound you hear; it’s a mix.  Very much like Denton herself.  And people walk up to booths all weekend long just to thank Top Hands for another awesome Arts & Jazz Festival.  That’s when we realize the impact we really make.  You can’t help but smile!”   

Top Hand Membership is open to individuals with an interest in the arts and available to volunteer for at least one three hour shift at one of the various booths at the festival.  Members receive RESERVED PARKING for Arts & Jazz, discounts on festival T-shirts, complimentary food and beverage coupons, media recognition and are the first to know who headliners are via the Festival Foundation’s newsletters.

Excitement rippled across the social media world and through the streets of Denton the moment the January-June 2012 issue of Denton Live Magazine came off the press.  The Music Mecca of Texas is raring to rock and jazz at Denton’s Arts and Jazz Festival April 27-29, 2012, in Quakertown Park.  Lee Ritenour will take the stage Friday night to the delight of jazz fans everywhere, more than a mere nod to the festival’s true jazz roots.  A master Jazz guitarist, Ritenour’s skill on the strings has earned him the moniker "Captain Fingers.”  He is also an acclaimed composer and producer with countless awards under his including a Grammy and 17 more Grammy nominations. Ritenour expertly fuses funk, pop, rock, blues, Brazilian and classical music with jazz.  It’s his own perfect mix that attracts the likes of other guitar gurus like Eric Clapton and Joni Mitchel, just to name a few, to join audiences at sold out performances. 

Saturday’s performance on the Jazz Stage will be a hot bed for Tex-Mex Rock loving fans when Los Lonely Boys crank out the faves from their most recent record, Rockpango.  The new CD title refers to a rock style that combines Latin celebration with the Latin rhythm of the huapango.  Just as the CD title does, Los Lonely Boys mix rock, blues, a little funky neo-bohemian, and even rock-pop accompanied by a string quartet.  It makes sense that they’ll play Denton, Texas where the vibe is always eclectic, fresh and new.  And, Fans, rest assured:  Los Lonely Boys #1 hit “Heaven” is guaranteed.

The party isn’t over until after Brave Combo takes the stage on Sunday night.  The Denton band has traveled the world and introduced millions to their original nuclear polka dance jam.  The A&J crowd is nowhere near jazzed out as the energy rises, everyone signs and spontaneous dancing breaks out to beats of salsa, meringue, rock, cumbia, conjunto, polka, zydeco, classical, cha cha, the blues… and more.  It’s been said that the famous slogan “Fun is the Thing and Jazz is King” was born during a Brave Combo show.  See for yourself; it’s probably quite true!

Pack your lawn chair or blanket, head to Denton and pick your spot – sunny or not!  There’s plenty of both among the 7 different stages and more 2,200 performers.  The bonus?  All the concerts are FREE.

Don’t leave the family at home, either.  Kids 12 and under can mold, sculpt and create in the Children’s Art Tent. 

You don’t have to go home empty handed.  You can peruse among more than 175 juried artists and crafters for that special piece that speaks to you.  And souvenirs are abundant, as well. 

Want to go it easy?  Leave coolers behind and enjoy seven food courts of all kinds of foods plus wine and beer!

The Denton Arts & Jazz Festival is a music-lover’s heaven.  It’s fun and music and art - a complete experience.  And it’s all in that special Denton, Texas style:  Original; Independent.

  Brave Combo’s sound electrifies the crowds during Arts & Jazz.  
 

Watch Arts & Jazz video to see a glimpse of the festivities in action. Visit www.DentonJazzFest.com for a complete schedule of events.

Nielsen’s third quarter survey of mobile users revealed that 43 percent of US mobile phone subscribers own a smartphone. And EyeforTravel’s Social Media & Mobile in Travel Report claims that over 5 million people use their mobile device for travel services.  

These are the growing trends that led the Denton Convention and Visitor Bureau to partner with the City of Denton, Greater Denton Arts Council, Denton Museums, and the Denton County Transportation Authority to launch a mobile version of its consumer website, www.DiscoverDenton.com at the beginning of this year.

Developed in collaboration with Madden Media, the mobile website offers valuable Denton travel information like where to stay, what to do and how to get around. In fact, even attractions and events found on www.DiscoverDenton.com easily accessible in this new environment. N areow when Denton’s mobile-savvy travel consumers launch the CVBs website from their phone, they are automatically directed to a mobile-friendly version of the site designed specifically for DROID and iPhone devices. 

Mobile website visitors are now guided to Denton’s attractions, dining establishments, and tourism destinations with GPS tracking and turn-by-turn directions. Event listings are updated daily. Hotel accommodations are booked from the palm of the hand. There is even an optional downloadable icon to the phone for faster access and return visits for Denton information.

“This mobile site is yet another innovative way to communicate with our visitors,” says Kim Phillips, CVB Vice President. “With travel information delivered straight to their phones, visitors can find everything they need to have the best possible experience in Denton, which always our number one goal.”

Another notable feature within the mobile website is a detail page where visitors can simply click on a phone number to dial with their Smartphone or click on a link to open a website. 

“The development of the new mobile site reflects our commitment to communicate and engage potential visitors: where they are, when they need it most, and how they prefer to hear from us,” said Veronica Maldonado, CVB Communications Manager. “Technology evolves almost daily, and visitors are consuming information in new and varied ways. It’s vital that we stay on that precarious cutting edge so we keep the forward-thinking reputation Denton has earned in the tourism marketplace.”

The mobile website is the latest CVB effort to deliver quality and current information beyond traditional communication channels. The CVB also utilizes tools such as QR codes, an online brochure, Facebook and Twitter to share the latest updates about Denton happenings through social media. The mobile website will be strategically integrated with these tools and within the Denton CVB’s overall marketing efforts that include print and digital advertising initiatives and aggressive social media activities.

It’s not a Best Kept Secret any longer.  If you’re looking for the hottest music scene in Texas, Denton’s got it:  independent, original, organic, energetic  sound.   So, it only makes sense that Denton would celebrate that sound with a festival featuring her local music scene in tandem with nationally and internationally known bands.  35 Denton will rock March 8-11, 2012.

What began as North by 35 and a way to showcase Denton’s homegrown music in the midst of SXSW Music Conference in Austin has become its own dynamic music generator.   Not only does 35 Denton’s following not hesitate to purchase tickets well in advance but they don’t even require the list of bands scheduled to play.  Well before bands were announced, much less contracted, wristbands sold out in one day during a blind presale.  When fans clamored for more, festival organizers obliged.

According to Denton festivals’ economic impact report, 35 Denton is credited for bringing in $2 million to the local economy in 2010.  During the 2011 festival, attendance averaged 4,000 to 6,000 per day.  Since the festival is hosted in music venues around Denton’s Historic Square and those thousands also enjoy dining and shopping, it’s is no wonder 35 Denton caught Texas Downtown Association’s (TDA) attention. 

This past November, during the TDA’s President’s Awards program, 35 Denton was recognized as a “Best Promotional Event.”  35 Denton organizers collaborate with city officials, downtown merchants, and artists to offer extraordinary, unique programming each year.  They do an astonishing job promoting the event, too.  Last October, one presale event was on location at local music venue Hailey’s while another was on-site at the same time in Norman, Oklahoma at a Music Exchange. 

But it was their part in downtown revitalization that put them at the top of TDA’s list. “We are becoming more well-known,” said Julie Glover, economic development program administrator for the City of Denton. “This is good publicity for the city.”

This year, 35 Denton is more promising than ever.  A record number of bands applied to play so far; more than 30 bands across several genres have already been confirmed; and more bands are added daily.  A few of 2012’s confirmed artists include Bun B, Built to Spill, Mountain Goats, The Raincoats, John Vanderslice, Thee Oh Sees, and Light Asylum.

Visit www.35Denton.com for a complete listing of artist and venues for March 8-11.  

HINT:  The best way to experience 35 Denton is purchase a wristband.  Wristbands can be ordered at www.35Denton.com.  Don’t mind the Sold Out sign.  According to 35 Denton’s Facebook Page, they will be available again starting January 10. 

It’s like a Christmas present:  the December arrival of the Spring/Summer 2012 issue of the Denton Live magazine! This newest issue delivers excitement for what’s coming up in the Spring; and this year, the Spring/Summer edition will also drop a little piece of “Heaven” in your stocking with a very special festival announcement.

At the beginning of each Fall and Spring semester, journalism students at The Mayborn Graduate School of Journalism at UNT prepare themselves for more than just a passing-end-of-semester-grade. This coveted class offers the opportunity each semester for a select group of up-and-coming journalists to taste life in the real publication world including the demands of a publisher, editor, design director and oh yes, that looming deadline to meet.   In less than 3 months, the mostly graduate students, dive into the hands-on production project and put their education into action in the arenas of design, storytelling, interviewing and photography, all of which meet a curriculum goal and measurable outcomes.      

 “We’re training the next generation of journalists in a real-world crucible, requiring lively writing to attract readers, fact-checking for accuracy, and a deadline that meant we’d face financial consequences if we failed to meet it,” says Cathy Thomas, adjunct professor for The Mayborn Graduate School of Journalism at UNT and editor for Denton Live and MAYBORN.

The Denton Live Magazine is available at the Denton Chamber office, local hotels, Denton museums, and retail stores around the Courthouse Square, Golden Triangle Mall, and the City of Denton. Visitors planning a trip to Denton can request a copy or pick one up at any Texas Visitor Center. 

The magazine is also global. All new stories can be found online at the magazine’s companion website www.DentonLive.com. The site includes an online calendar that serves as the official calendar of events for the City of Denton. With the various search features for events and past articles, the website is architected to help visitors plan their daily itineraries in Denton.

Keep in mind as you read about 35 Denton, Thin Line Film Fest and the Arts & Jazz Festival, it’s always a fresh take on an annual festival from the vast creative and intellectual talent that soundly sets Denton apart from the rest of world.

By The Arts Guild of Denton


The Arts Guild of Denton (TAG) is going all out with their vintage Vegas theme for this year’s Auction for the Arts celebration, November 12.  The Center for the Visual Arts (CVA) will be transformed into a dazzling scene complete with parading showgirls and cameo appearances by Elvis and “old blue eyes.”  The doors open at 6:00 pm. 

Auction goers can enjoy the plentiful food and drinks and spend some time in the “High Roller Lounge” for the Silent Auction, featuring a dizzying array of items to bid on. Dozens of local businesses and individuals have generously donated merchandise and services for the event. Lavish gift baskets, delicious restaurant meals and automotive services are only a few of the items available.  Make sure to get your bid in early because the Silent Auction closes promptly at 8:00 pm!  Another “don’t miss” from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm is the Baccarat Room where you can try your luck at the Wheel of Fortune to win prizes and discounts on items auctioned in the main event.

Just after the Silent Auction closes at 8:00 pm the excitement really gears up with the main event!  This year’s Live Auction has some truly unique offerings up for bid.  NASCAR fans will have the opportunity to snag grandstand tickets, jewelry lovers can have one-of-a-kind pieces designed just for them, fine dining aficionados will have several chances to dine in or go out on the town, travel buffs can try to win a trip to Taos or South Padre.  Works of art in a wide variety of mediums and styles will be up for bid throughout the evening as well.  Many other items and adventures are on the menu for the evening including one very special treat where 20 lucky people will have a chance to experience an hour-long flight over the metroplex aboard the Flagship Detroit, a fully restored vintage American Airlines DC3.   The outing also includes a tour of the American Airlines hangar at Alliance Airport and a one year membership in the Flagship Detroit Foundation. 

All proceeds from Auction for the Arts directly benefit arts organizations in Denton.  Since its inception in 1980, TAG has helped strengthen and increase the reach of these groups by contributing over $1 million.  The annual auction is the major fundraising event for TAG and its success provides the means for arts groups to enhance the cultural climate of the Denton community.  Auction goers not only have the opportunity to acquire a special treat for themselves (or get some extraordinary Christmas gifts), but also to play a vital part in making Denton a distinctly desirable destination. 

This entertaining event will be held at the Center for Visual Arts located at 400 E. Hickory, Denton, TX.   Tickets are $25 for TAG members and their guests, $30 for non-members when purchased in advance, and $35 at the door.  Tickets can be purchased by calling Elizabeth Headrick at 979-549-2657 or emailing Elizabeth.Headrick@gmail.com. 

By The Denton Holiday Festival

The 23nd Annual Holiday Lighting Festival at Denton’s Courthhouse-on-the-Square promises to delight visitors of all ages with the sights and sounds of the holiday season. This marks an historic year for the festival, as the event has officially moved to Friday – so you and your family can gaze at the twinkling lights, carol to your heart’s content, and sip wassail well into the evening.

A tremendously successful family-oriented event, the Denton Holiday Lighting Festival kicks off with a sing-along and the lighting of the community Christmas tree on Friday, December 2 at 5:30pm. Visitors will enjoy music and dance recitals by area performers, have a visit with Santa, make arts and crafts in our children’s area, enjoy snacks from one of our food vendors – and most importantly – can donate a toy to the Community Toy Drive benefiting needy families in Denton County.

You don’t want to miss the exciting entertainment in store on the Festival Stage this year – it’s going to be an amazing night of music, dance and holiday cheer you won’t soon forget.

The Denton Holiday Lighting Festival was started in 1988 by a group of volunteers. Today the annual tradition is continued by the efforts of volunteers and funded by donations from local businesses and individuals. For more information or to make a donation, please visit www.dentonholidaylighting.com or Facebook.com/DentonHolidayLighting.

INFO:

• DHFA – www.dentonholidaylighting.com         
  
• In case of inclement weather, please contact the CVB at 940.382.7895
  
• "Like" Denton Holiday Lighting Festival on Facebook.
  
• DHFA is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose primary mission in hosting the annual Holiday Lighting Festival.  The DHFA raises funds from the private sector to purchase banners, lights and decorations for public buildings and the Courthouse-on-the-Square in historic downtown Denton.
  

The American Bus Association (ABA) announced that the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival, to be held on April 27-29, 2012, has been designated as one of the Top 100 Events in North America for 2012 by an experienced expert tourism industry selection committee. Inclusion in the Top 100 list, published as a supplement to the September/October issue of Destinations magazine, spotlights the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival for offering excellent entertainment value to tour groups and individual travelers from around the world.

With the release of ABA's 2012 Top 100 Events in North America, ABA celebrates 30 years of the program. What began as a way for motorcoach operators to incorporate new product into their itineraries has grown to be one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motorcoach operators and the general public.

"The attractiveness of the Arts & Jazz Festival as a don't-miss entertainment value is only part of why its selection this year is such a distinction for Denton," said Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS, ABA's president and CEO. "The real news here is that Arts & Jazz has been recognized as a potential magnet for tourism dollars, at a time when reenergizing domestic tourism is so important to our spirit and our economy. The honor gives Denton an important boost in visibility among professional tour planners."

According to researchers at The George Washington University and Dunham and Associates, one overnight visit by a motorcoach group can leave from US $5,000 to more than US $11,000 in a local destination's economy. Those dollars are spent on lodging, meals, admissions, fees, shopping, souvenirs, services and local taxes.

"Motorcoach groups spend more and stay longer,” Pantuso said. “That's why Arts & Jazz is truly a local economic asset. There is no better way to jump-start tourism than to attract motorcoach groups to a great event and convince them to extend their stay."

Arts & Jazz Executive Director, Carol Short was thrilled with the award, "Selecting the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival as one of North America's 100 Best Events for 2012 from the American Bus Association is a wonderful honor, not only for our organization but for Denton's citizens and the business community. Recognizing the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival as a destination for tourism that helps boost the economy for our community makes us all proud partners."

ABA's 2012 Top 100 Events Selection Committee selected the Arts & Jazz Festival from hundreds of event nominations submitted by ABA members. Judges considered the event's broad appeal, its accessibility to motorcoaches, skill at handling large groups, and a variety of other relevant criteria.

The Arts & Jazz Festival is scheduled for April 27, 28, & 29 of 2012. While headliners have not yet been announced, expect fantastic music from over 2,500 performers on seven stages. Music throughout Denton’s Quakertown Park underscores fine arts, crafts, children's art activities, food and games. Be on the lookout for headliner announcements at the end of 2011.

The Planner’s Zone

“Your directions to a successful event in Denton”

If you are planning a group function, small or large, for your company, church, school, club, organization…or even the family reunion…then attending The Planner’s Zone Trade Show is a must!  The Denton Convention & Visitor Bureau and the Gateway Center at UNT team up every year to produce this showcase of local solutions for every meeting planner’s needs. 

The Planner’s Zone is an opportunity for local businesses who offer services and products essential to successful meetings and events to meet face-to-face with you in ONE day and at ONE location. This year’s Planner’s Zone will be held October 20, 2011 from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at the Gateway Center. Special designated parking will be available for vendors and attendees directly across from the Gateway Center at Fouts Field. 

The tradeshow reinforces the diverse, high quality facilities and amenities offered right here in Denton – usually at much more competitive prices than planners can find in “the big cities.” Attendees also discover the tremendous resource available to them through the Denton Convention and Visitor Bureau (CVB). The CVB’s own Dana Lodge, Certified Meeting Professional, offers counsel, assistance and the services of the CVB staff free of charge to ensure that meetings held in Denton are successful and a positive experience for everyone involved.

“Each year, the Planner’s Zone is transformed to introduce new up and coming vendors to the community along with our local favorites,” said Dana Lodge, Denton Director of Sales. “The local businesses that participate demonstrate how they collaborate with each other to host conventions, meetings, events and visitors to our community. Experiencing this partnership is an advantage for meeting planners. We are also excited to offer designated parking again this year which will help our attendees get in and out quicker. 
 

The Planner Zone is open to the public and FREE of charge. Door prizes will be given away throughout the show. More than 45 local exhibitors will feature hotels, caterers, meeting facilities, transportation companies, promotional products and restaurants among many other local businesses and services specific to the meetings industry. 

Hosted by Zach Glenn, Meteorologist with KDAF - CW, "The 33", this year’s zone will take you over the top. So get into The Zone, The Planner’s Zone!

In Denton, anything antique or historic is a sign of character. Since we landed on the map more than 150 years ago, our city has clung to its original architecture, actively and creatively adapting original downtown buildings for new uses rather than razing them and starting over.

It is that same spirit of preservation that motivated the Denton Main Street Association (DMSA) to begin the Arts, Antiques and Autos (AAA) festival 12 years ago, an event that features vintage antiques and collectibles, the majority of which are carefully waxed, packing power under the hood, and showing muscle where it counts.   

On Saturday, September 10, from 9 am to 3 pm., highly competitive collectors will drive more than 200 cars, trucks and motorcycles  representing eras from today to days long past to Denton. They will gather all around the beautiful Courthouse-on-the-Square where visitors are free to wander among and admire them. Official judges are clandestine among the throngs keeping the car owners on their toes, alert and showing off in hopes of winning the coveted “Best of Show award.” 

In addition to the antique cars, numerous vendor booths offer unique arts, crafts, and demonstrations. Lectures throughout the day provide opportunities to learn more about the popular sports of collecting and antiquing under topics like: “Estate Sales ‘How to’”’ by John Bennett; “Antique Diamonds” by Joe Amyx; and “Vintage Purses” and “Tips, Tools and Techniques: Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Caring for Antiques, Collectibles, and Other Treasures” by Georgia Caraway. Lectures will be inside the Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square (CHOS) in the Commissioner’s Courtroom on the 2nd floor.

Hands-on crafts and games keep the kids busy while area bands such as Chris Watson playing Texas Blues Rock entertain crowds all day long. The festival atmosphere is complete with food from numerous downtown eateries and vendors.     

Take advantage of the specialists in some of the downtown stores as they conduct “Attic Treasure” Information Appraisals on general antiques and collectibles, including jewelry, clocks, china, silver, glass, and more (no furniture or photos of items please).

Producers have added a “Preview Night” on Friday, September 9, on Industrial Street, just east of the Square. From 6-8:30 pm, car and motorcycle enthusiasts can catch a sneak peek of some of the premier classics and hot rods and cast a vote for the “People’s Choice” Award.   All awards are   presented on Saturday afternoon at the show’s closing.  

“Our historic downtown is authentic and it cannot be duplicated. This event highlights downtown in a unique way that truly captures the treasures of Denton’s past and present,” said Larry Parker, DMSA president. “What a perfect way to spend a day in Denton: immersed in history all day and then on the cutting edge of new the same evening when UNT’s Mean Green takes the field for the very first time in brand new Apogee Stadium. A historic day all the way around.”

General admission to AAA is FREE. Registration to compete in the car show is $25. Lectures and appraisals are $5. For directions, an event schedule, entry forms, and more detailed information, please visit www.dentonmainstreet.org or call the event hotline at (940) 349-8529. 

The Denton Convention & Visitor Bureau (CVB) is making it even easier for travelers on the go to flip through Denton’s brochure. The CVB recently unveiled its newest interactive Denton iBrochure where visitors can find out how “It’s All Happening” in Denton.

Travelers have become savvier on their smart phones and are increasingly more environmentally conscious. The iBrochure perfectly compliments Denton’s Green initiatives. Its launch is in synch with the timing of what trend experts have dubbed: “The Year of the Mobile.” 

Visitors can access Denton’s iBrochure from a PC or a mobile phone, its format adjusting automatically for the best-looking and most user-friendly experience from whatever technological medium is used. In one or two keystrokes, visitors can find out about Denton’s attractions and events and explore dining and lodging options. They can watch our Denton video, download brochures like Hip2bSquare, link to Horse Country, find major event information, and access Denton’s social networking sites.  

CVB staff coordinated with Madden Media, a national media firm that specializes in destination marketing, to develop the iBrochure. It is hosted at www.vacationfun.com, a website where visitors choose a U.S. destination and are presented with a selection of free travel guides about it.

For people already on the go with no time left to print, the Denton iBrochure is viewable on www.DiscoverDenton.com, www.facebook.com/DiscoverDentonTX or by scanning the QR code in the Denton CVB’s visitor lobby.

Check it out and then pass it on! Share Denton’s iBrochure with your entire contact list and share it on your FaceBook page, too. Help spread the word: “It’s All Happening” in Denton!”

Western-themed collectibles and décor are in – whether you’re a real, live cowboy or cowgirl or not. So, where do you go to find the “best of the west?” The Western Heritage Gallery (WHG), home to the finest western Americana collection today and one of Denton’s Best Kept Secrets. Open 363 days a year and online, it is the premier destination for collectors, dealers, and designers alike.

With over 80 dealers, the WHG not only showcases collector items, Western and Native Indian Americana décor and artwork that spans centuries; it is also the host location to the upcoming Annual Cowboy Gathering & Trade Show, September 9-11, 2011.

Western dealers, makers and artists from across the country will be on hand at this trade show to display their work and collections for sale.  

If you’re into more of the “high bidder” action, be on the lookout for some first class contemporary work at the The Legends of Texas Auction.   Pieces of work by Jerry Cates, R F Ford, Earlon Shirley and Eduardo Grijalva will be displayed for auction along with works by more than 30 of today’s best contemporary makers.

The auction will be held on Saturday evening, September 10 at 5:30 pm and, according to the event planners, it will likely be the best western auction Texas has ever seen. While the auction includes jewelry, art, cowgirl memorabilia, furniture, western collectibles and Native American items, here are just a sampling of the exceptional items to be on the lookout for:

• A historic pair of Adolph Bayers spurs made for two-time World Champion, Sonny Perry. Sonny rode Cutter Bill and Senor George, both American Quarter Horse Association Hall of Fame inductees, owned by the late Rex Cauble.
  
• A special pair of spurs by legend Billy Klapper, a reputable contemporary spur maker. Klapper, a much sought after spur maker has a several year wait list but made a special pair of spurs specifically for this auction.   
  
• A rare fully floral-tooled saddle heavily silvered with over 30 pieces of custom sterling silver by Dale Harwood. Harwood is a Founder of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association, and possibly the world’s most sought after saddle maker. His work has been known to sell for over $90,000.
  
• A beautifully hand-tooled duplicate saddle of the 1870’s style Mexican Saddles made for Ron Howard’s 2003 film “The Missing”, starring Tommy Lee Jones. Created by Clint Mortenson, these saddles were made exclusively for the film by Mortenson Saddlery. The duplicate is adorned with hand-made Sterling Conchos and trim and is accompanied by Apache saddle bags hand made from buffalo hide by Emmy winning costume designer, Cathy Smith and a custom monogrammed stand. saddle bags were hand-made from buffalo hide by Emmy-winning costume designer, Cathy Smith. Custom monogrammed stand included. saddle bags were hand-made from buffalo hide by Emmy-winning costume designer, Cathy Smith. Custom monogrammed stand included.

Cowboys don’t just muster to show off beautiful artwork work. The gathering will also include The International Guild of Bit & Spur Makers 3^rd Annual Conference.  The conference gives the guild an opportunity to network with international bit and spur makers and educate fellow artists, collectors, and the public.  The conference also gives the artists an opportunity to share ideas, methods, and techniques with fellow artists.  

 “We look forward to making Denton a destination for collectors, designers and all who are interested in Western Americana or just want well-made, quality merchandise.” Owner Stephen Plyler went on to say, “We are a different breed of Antique Mall. We want to bring Western Americana to North Texas in a new way. Owner Jeff Trammel added that “Our selection of Western Antiques and Art is second to none as we have dealers from Connecticut to California who exhibit in our Denton location.”

For more information about the Western Heritage Gallery and upcoming events visit www.thewesternheritagegallery.com.                    

Summer in North Texas has been a scorcher this year. But, Denton’s music scene will be hot in the coolest way when the North Texas State Fair and Rodeo (NTSF) opens its gates August 19-27, 2011.

Go ahead and tip your cowboy hat to the rodeo, midway carnival and special attractions. Then scoot your boots to chart-topping music, the real sizzle in the NTSF’s nine days and nights of entertainment.  For country music lovers, it is hands-down the best music and the best value for your money!

Concerts these days typically surpass the $100-per-head mark; but, the NTSF has come up with a great country music junkie rate. For only $90 you get all 9 days of the fair, including 20 music concerts. Combine that bargain with Denton’s attractive hotel rates and you can turn this event into your family’s last summer fling. Check out www.igotleftindenton.com for special hotel packages designed for A-train visitors and pass the word to your friends in the area. It’s a steal!

This year’s line-up includes top artists like the Casey Donahew Band, Jack Ingram, Pauline Reese, The Josh Abbot Band, Cody Canada and the Departed, and Tracy Lawrence. And if you purchase your tickets on pure, country music faith, you will get a “hum-dinger” of a surprise August 6^th when NTSF announces the name of the “Biggest Band in Texas” who will perform on NTSF’s Budweiser Stage. Tejano Music fans will want in on the action, too, for cross-over great Emilio Navaira. 

“With savings of $45, this is the best value in fair venues and rodeos anywhere in North Texas,” says Nanci Kimmey, Executive Assistant at the NTSF.

It’s not just the big names in music that bring the excitement to this year’s stages. In Denton, we always keep our eyes on our local music scene, too.  When it comes to “down-home” and “genuine,” cowboys like 2011 Ironman Cowboy Champion Colby Yates pretty much sum it up: real cowboys singing about what they know best: working the ranch and winning bull riding competitions. Colby and two-time World Champion Bull Rider Justin McBride are among several cowboys- turned-musicians that will perform on NTSF’s Bud Light Stage.

Visit www.NTFAIR.COM for schedule information. And if you want to learn more about who’s taking the stage this year, read all about the performers at www.ntfair.com/news. While you’re there, go ahead and “like them” on Facebook or follow them on Twitter and be among the very first in Texas to get the top secret announcement of the “the biggest name in Texas Red Dirt Music” scheduled to perform August 26.

The North Texas State Fair and Rodeo (NTSF) has had a long history and tradition of showcasing the cowboy way of life.  Now in its 83rd year the organizers strive to offer everyone this unique western entertainment and family fun.  

The fair is one of the largest events in Denton County, attracting about 135,000 fans from the northern Texas and southern Oklahoma areas.  This is the third year NTSF has been awarded the Best Overall Fair at the Texas Association of Fairs and Events Convention (TAF&E) beating out competitors that averaged between 400-450,000 attendees. 

This year’s North Texas State Fair and Rodeo will take place August 19 – 27.  While there are many activities that lead up to the opening day of NTSF, the first evening includes the Peterbilt Kid’s Tractor Pull, Great White Shark Experience, Spirit of the Horse, the PRCA Rodeo in the Miller Lite Rodeo Arena, the Brison Bursey Band on the “Bud Light Stage”, and the Casey Donahew Band on the “Budweiser Stage”.  And that’s just the first day! Just don’t lose sight that there are NINE days of carnival fun, live concerts, rodeos, contests, shopping, and, of course, food!

There is a fantastic music line-up this year! Performers include Casey Donahew Band, Jack Ingram, Emilio Navaira, Pauline Reese, Dale Watson, Cody Canada and the Departed, Josh Abbott Band, Tracy Lawrence, and Justin McBride.  But many fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of “the biggest name in Texas Red Dirt Music” which won’t be publicized until August 5th. 

For those zealous cowboys and cowgirls, there are 3 exciting nights of the PRCA Rodeo, an Invitational Ranch Rodeo, the 21 & Under Rodeo, and the ever popular Miller Lite Bull Blow-Out.

Guests are the inspiration that give the fair character, explains Glenn Carlton, Executive Director of the NTSF, “…the tone and inspiration comes from our volunteers, sponsors, and participates. This past Fair’s award winning theme was inspired by a photo taken by a parent. The photo featured 7 young cowboys, in their boots, chaps, and hats.  They really looked like a miniature old west gang!!  But mostly, it was their mischievous smiles and joy, on their faces, just because they were at the North Texas State Fair and Rodeo!”

Make sure you “gather” in Denton and add your personal touch to this year’s North Texas State Fair and Rodeo!

For the past 28 years, Texas’ governor has recognized the economic importance of the travel and tourism industry on Texas during National Tourism Week, celebrated May 9-15, 2011. According to annual research compiled by Dean Runyan and Associates for the Texas Governor’s Office of Economic Development & Tourism, state and national travel industries are finally seeing the beginnings of recovery after the severe declines of 2009’s recession. Travel spending in Texas reached $57.5 billion in 2010, a 9.8% increase over 2009’s bleak year end.

“Travel and tourism is one of the most important “export-oriented” industries in Texas,” the Runyan Report states. “Spending by visitors generates jobs and tax revenues for communities within the state. The gross domestic product (GDP) of the Texas travel industry was $23.4 billion in 2010. This is similar to other export-oriented industries such as microelectronics and agriculture/food production. Only oil and gas production and related manufacturing have a significantly greater GDP.” 

In Denton County, the travel industry brought $518.3 million in tax revenue, an 8.9% increase over 2009.  

On Friday, May 13, the Texas Travel Information Center at Gainesville, a division of Texas Department of Transportation, hosted a regional travel fair to celebrate National Tourism Week. The mini-fair’s goal was providing a forum for individual community representatives to greet Texas visitors in person and educate them in creative, fun ways about the places and activities North Texas offers. The Denton Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) and the Denton County Museums, sponsored by Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream, partnered to showcase Denton’s downtown.

“We wanted to incite Texas visitors to take the time to get off I-35 and really see Denton,” said Kim Phillips, Denton CVB vice president. 

The Denton team included CVB staff members Kim Phillips, Dana Lodge and Veronica Maldonado and Georgia Caraway from the Denton County Museums. Beth Marie’s provided three giant tubs of uniquely Denton flavored homemade ice cream that the group served on cones throughout the day. Beth Marie’s also provided coupons for a free kid’s cone as a metric for how many people acted on the information provided by the team’s effort. Beth Marie’s co-owners Ken Willis and Bob Moses reported that they received more of the coupons back into the store over that weekend than they have ever received so quickly from one single campaign. 

A stroke of timing luck certainly added to the event’s success for Denton with the fact that Friday the 13^th was the beginning of commencement weekend for, not just Denton’s own UNT and TWU, but houses of higher education across the state. Hundreds of visitors clamored into the visitor center, sometimes resulting in a line for ice cream cones that stretched around the visitor center lobby and all the way out the door! Beth Marie’s made them smile on the spot and gave the perfect incentive to draw them into Denton, many experiencing our city beyond the freeway for the very first time. 

Special thanks to Ken Willis and Bob Moses of Beth Marie’s Homemade Ice Cream for sponsoring Denton’s National Tourism Week exhibit and for supporting tourism in Denton.

Fireworks will light the sky at one of North Texas’ biggest bangs, the Kiwanis Fireworks Show at Fouts Field on the University of North Texas campus after dark on July 4th.  But in Denton, the 4th of July is an all-day event. 

Early birds start the 4th of July celebration weekend by running or walking in the 13th Annual Liberty Run: 5K Run and 1-Mile Fun Walk. The family-oriented race begins at 7:30 AM (check-in begins at 6:30 AM) at North Lakes Recreation Center. Medals are awarded to the top three 5K male and female finishers in each age group.  And, as a nice incentive to stay on the healthy path, all walkers receive a participation medal and all participants receive a T-shirt and snacks.

Downtown Denton is the next must be location.  The Yankee Doodle Parade, which begins at 9 AM, winds its way through downtown and to the Civic Center.

The celebration continues with the 4th of July Jubilee at the Civic Center and Quakertown Park.  The Jubilee will feature free children’s activities, including carnival games, the Great Gutter Race, and a whipped cream-eating contest.

After the celebration, guests receive $1 admission to the Civic Center Pool from noon to 7 p.m.  So hit the pool or maybe cool off at Water Works Park!

But don’t call it a day just yet.  Fouts Field fills up with eager spectators awaiting an awesome array of fireworks.  The gates open at 5:30 p.m. and live music begins at 6:30.  The event is FREE but avid gazers gladly make donations to the "Bucket Brigade" throughout the show.

Your drive home may be a weary one, but you will surely be glad you wore your patriotic pride in Denton!