DENTON HOLIDAY WEEKEND: Holiday Lighting + Wassail Fest

by Sara Button

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It’s the best time of the year, y’all! Temperatures are dropping, cheeks are rosy, and we are ready to drink your wassail – I mean, deck the halls! Y’all ready? Due to the overwhelming success and excitement tied to the Holiday Lighting Festival and Wassail Fest, the Denton Main Street Association has expanded the annual event through this Friday & Saturday.

In downtown Denton, the holidays are organized by two separate, yet equally important groups. The Denton Holiday Lighting group who investigate the space for the annual holiday lighting, and The Denton Main Street Association who prosecute every last drop of wassail. DUN DUN. In all seriousness, though – these groups work together to provide an outstanding holiday weekend experience for Dentonites and passers-through. Continue reading for more information:

Celebrating its 26th year, the Denton Holiday Lighting Festival is a tradition funded entirely on donations from local businesses and individuals. A very common misperception is that the DHLF is a city event and fully funded by the city of Denton. Although not funded by the city, the DHLF is operated by a volunteer board and works completely as a grassroots operation. Donations go toward funding the electricity and the maintenance throughout the entire year.

Something new this year is the debut Denton Holiday album, A Very Merry Denton. This is available in CD format and on the iTunes store and will be sold at the DHLF event as well as on the website. The compilation features a variety of talented Denton artists playing some of their favorite holiday tunes. Some local artists include Sarah Jaffe, Brent Best, Bubba Hernandez and Paul Slavens. 

"There will be Santa photos, a horse-drawn carriage ride, singing, dancing, food, fun and friendship" DHLF board chair Kelley Pound shared. "It is one of Denton's most loved events." This year is no exception. There is a lot do to on Friday evening so be sure to check out the official schedule here. 

Wassail Fest is maintaining momentum in its 16th year and the Denton Main Street Association has packed 40 Wassail Stops within walking distance for your holiday-tasting-needs. The best part is you can break your route up in to two-days! Friday night between 5:30pm and 8:00pm you can mill around to a number of merchants and continue your stroll on Saturday afternoon between 2:00pm and 6:00pm. Some merchants are only offering wassail on Friday OR Saturday, but for your complete list please check here.

Wondering exactly how Wassail Fest works? Did you know there is a winner? Do you want to help crown the coveted title of Wassail Queen (and/or King?) It’s simple – follow three easy steps: 1) Pick up a ballot from any of the Wassail Stops. 2) Taste all the Wassail. 3) Vote for your favorite Wassail and drop the ballot off at any of the Wassail Stops. See? Easy peasy. All of the votes will be tallied up and a winner will be announced on Saturday evening. Participants who fill out and turn in a ballot are eligible for door prizes throughout the weekend from participating vendors. Follow the DMSA on Facebook for updates.

The Denton Holiday Weekend is not just about the lights or the wassail – it is about giving back, enjoying and loving our community. The DHLF asks that you bring a new, unwrapped toy donation for their annual toy drive. All toys raised will stay in Denton County for our local kiddos in need. Additionally, our local businesses and restaurants are open and ready for you! Please remember to be kind and courteous when walking around from business to business, whether you are sampling wassail, shopping, or sitting down for a quick bite.

(2ND) PREVIEW WEST OAK COFFEE BAR

Words and Images by Will Milne

The long-awaited West Oak Coffee Bar opens today in their space at 114 W Oak Denton, TX 76201. The space is enormous, beautiful and was definitely worth the wait. That fact, alone, is kinda hard to believe when you consider that when we were in the space a few short months ago in July it still looked like this: 

Needless to say, when they said they hoped to open in November, we were apprehensive at best to believe them. Here we are, though, a few short days into December and the place isn't a scary-looking pit with a bunch of possibility any more! That possibility was put to use and West Oak Coffee Bar is now open to the masses. You've come a long way, baby. 

In our last post, we were pretty pumped about the spot and one thing in particular, chocolate milk on tap. That tap has been installed, and rich, thick, chocolately milk is flowing alongside the well-selected beers and kombucha. Heck, here's a photo of the glass of chocolate milk we received shortly before we gulped it down. 

But we were wrong to be encapsulated with just that one thing. Chocolate milk on tap isn't even the star of the show at West Oak. Last night at their preview night, there were all sorts of goodies to be had. We sampled the veggie quesadilla, the cranberry/orange Monte Cristo, some delicious espresso beverages, and all of the pies! 

With the thought and care that we've seen go into not only the space but the menu, as well, we're excited to see how it expands in the future. 

The space is full of all sorts of reclaimed wood, reclaimed lighting and looks downright amazing. West Oak is a beast of a different kind than our other, local coffee shops. There's beer, wine and fine foods. Not only could you go work on your laptop but it's also a perfect date spot. 

The crew at West Oak was helpful, skilled, and ready to give recommendations. In addition, there were more beards, suspenders and vests inside the place than in a Beards, Suspenders, and Vests store.  

The Veggie quesadilla.

There are all sorts of seating arrangements depending upon how you're feeling at West Oak. Lots of the old flooring was able to be recycled into the chairs and other furniture in the space. Aside from that, the bar is actually the flooring of an old train cart (we heard rumors of hobo blood stains on it, too!) and the backing of the booths is actually an old bowling alley lane. Keep all of this in mind when you find out how heavy the chairs are. 

A slice of pie in the kitchen. 

The coconut buttermilk pie sits alongside its brethren in the window. 

All in all, a lot of thought, care, and hard work has gone into making West Oak Coffee Bar a reality. We're happy to welcome them into the neighborhood and already know it will be one of our new favorite stops in town. Make sure to stop by sometime and grab some Intelligentsia coffee and a slice of pie. Their hours are limited this week, so call or check their Facebook before stopping by, but soon enough the hours should change to Monday - Thursday: 6am to 11pm, Friday: 6am to 12am, Saturday: 7am to 12am, and Sunday: 7 am to 11pm. 

THE DEN10: DECEMBER 3rd

The word “beloved” could be used about a hundred times when talking about the events of this week. Namely the Holiday Lighting and Wassail Fests which will occur the Friday and Saturday respectively. There are multiple fundraisers if you want to get involved and give a helping hand this time of year. Heck, you might even feel good about yourself. There’s plenty out there to keep you busy and to give you more reasons to use the words “beloved” in the same sentence as “Denton." Hashtag #WDDI and show us your Denton and we just might pick your pic to be featured in our beloved What We Did post on Monday.

Questions comments and cold medicine may be directed at glen@wedentondoit.com

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Thursday, December 4th
Prohibition Repeal Party | Paschall’s | 4PM

Friday, December 5th
Krampus Day | Downtown Square | 5PM - 9PM 
Our favorite Christmas demon from European folklor comes back this Friday. Wanna learn more? Click here. 

Denton Holiday Lighting | Downtown Square | 5PM - 9:30PM
One of Denton’s most beloved events will descend upon our beloved square this Friday evening. This is a purely donation funded event that is a true labor of love by the good folks who put it on every year. Get into the spirit and dress for the possibility of weather and we can just about guarantee you’ll make some memories. Also, this year there's double the wassail as you can grab a cup at some establishments on Friday and some on Saturday, as well. 

The Chris Watson Band | Dan’s Silver Leaf | 10PM | $10

Saturday, December 6th
Wassail Fest | Downtown Square | 2PM - 6PM
Head downtown again on Saturday to sample all the wassail setup in the shops and vote on your favorite one. 

Help-Portrait: Denton | Calhoun Middle School | 11AM

Fight The Freeze Winter Gear Drive | Denton | 11AM - 3PM
Donate all your winter gear to any number of location listed in the Facebook event.

1st Annual Christmas Champagne Brunch | The Chestnut Tree | 10AM
Call the “nut house” to make reservations for this sure to be very tasty 3 course brunch with champagne. 

Petty Theft | Dan’s Silver Leaf | 10PM | $10
The worlds greatest Petty Tribute in the worlds greatest venue. What’s not to like?

Sunday, December 7th
Heritage Brunch | Paschall Bar | 12:30PM
Who wants a Scottish breakfast?

DIME FEATURED MAKER: SHAWNA SMYTH

Every so often, we like to check in with the ladies over at The DIME Store and highlight one of the makers whose work they sell in-store. This month they spoke with newcomer, Shawna Smyth, about chalkboards, dad jokes, and why there's not a best coffee shop in town. We also learned a little bit about her work as a maker, too, but ya know-- getting off topic is fun. Read on to learn about this talented maker's continuing journey as a freelancer and risk-taker. 

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First of all, we need to address the fact that you have the world's coolest day job: you are a freelance chalkboard artist. How'd you get that gig?

Honestly, I kind of fell into it! I was working as a cashier at Central Market when I was approached to join the Art Department there to help out during a busy period. They knew I was studying art at UNT, so figured I might be a good fit. Over time, I worked really hard to prove that I was worthy of a full-time position there.

I started researching letterers, chalkboard artists, and sign painters to get new ideas for the weekly chalkboards that I took responsibility for, and I quickly fell in love with lettering. I watched timelapse videos to learn different techniques from other letterers, read countless interviews, bought lettering books, started following lettering superstars on Instagram... My new found love blossomed into a full-blown passion, and soon I was drawing letters everywhere. During long lectures, I'd sketch out quotes I liked. Waiting for the bus, I'd practice the letter 'S' in different styles. Suddenly, every birthday card I sent was done by hand, and I ended up hand lettering my own graduation announcements and mortar board. Lettering invaded almost every part of my life.

Well, it turns out... when you're passionate about something, research the heck out of it and you practice a LOT, you get pretty good! I would post pictures of my Central Market chalkboards on Instagram and Facebook, and slowly people started messaging me about doing a wedding chalkboard for them, or a high school graduation announcement. An executive from a Westlake corporation approached me to do a chalk mural at her office because she shopped at my store and liked my work. People actually wanted to pay me REAL MONEY to do something I was passionate about! What the... how does that even happen?!

At this point, I was going to school full time, working at Central Market full time,getting ready for graduation, and squeezing in freelance chalkboards whenever I could. It got overwhelming, and I got angry and I didn't laugh as much as I used to. But, a few months after I graduated, I decided I had built up enough clientele from side jobs that I could leave Central Market and make the HUGE leap to full-time freelance artist. Some stuff has been scary. Like figuring out health insurance, learning about taxes, and that ever-looming fact that you have no idea when your next paycheck is coming in. But, overall, it's been hugely liberating, and gratifying! I've met such interesting, wonderful people, I make my own schedule, and every day I get to have fun for a living. This chapter of my life is pretty neato, and I find reasons to laugh every day now!
 

What's your favorite type of chalkboard job?

Hmmm.... all of them? I LOVE doing chalkboards! The medium is so forgiving, it's great. Even when you're using chalk markers, you can typically erase with window cleaner and a sponge.

Besides that, I absolutely adore clients who offer me food and drinks while I work. I have to say, the chalkboards I've done at bars have been some of the most fun I've done. Haha!
 

Did it seem like a natural fit to add your line of clever, handlettering-driven art to your income as a freelancer?

It really did! Kind of a "duh" decision for me, and I'm so glad I did it! If I had chickened out (I was sorely tempted) I never would have gotten to know the ladies of the DIME Store. Rachel, Shelley, and Savannah have been HUGE in helping me navigate this crazy new path I'm on.

How do you come up with your cheeky and quirky designs?

Cheeky and quirky, I love that! Well, if you meet my dad, it'll make sense instantly.

I developed my sense of humor with my dad's humor as the blueprint. He's always been the funny guy in the room, that guy surrounded by a group of people laughing... but you know, in a good way. Not, like, pointing and laughing. But yeah, growing up I was taught to put a  high value on laughter, and I guess it shows. If I don't make a single cent on my "dad joke cards" but I make a few people laugh in the process... that's worth it. 

You're just getting started with your collection of cards and prints, and we've already seen you add paper dolls and mugs to your line up in the past month. What motivates you to try different formats for your work?

Curiousity! I'll never know what I'm capable of if I don't try new things. Also Pinterest. Pinterest makes me believe I can do anything. Sometimes I crash and burn (oh hey, jewelry making), but every once in a while I'll try something new and it works out awesome.

So since you obviously have a love affair with coffee, who's got the best shop in town? Favorite beans for home?

Oh, it's that obvious, huh? Yeah, coffee and I have decided to run away together (don't tell my boyfriend), and we're just going to be super productive all the time! Yessss!

Best shop in town?! I don't think that exists... each shop has it's own greatness! I liked Big Mike's for it's location so close to campus, and the people-watching was superb! I like Jupiter House on the Square for sketching (half my cards were drawn here), the WhiteHouse for when I can't decide if I want beer or coffee (or both), and I'm super digging Shift right now. The owners are so SO nice, and super knowledgeable about coffee. And this isn't "in town" but it deserves honorable mention, Roots in Highland Village! They have the coolest chalkboard walls, and this amazing honey latte. It's like when you eat a bowl of Smacks cereal, and the milk at the bottom of the bowl is super sweet and honey flavored... add that to espresso, bam! Amazing.

Favorite beans for home? Anything by Addison Coffee Roaster. Central Market turned me into a coffee snob, and I can't appreciate Folgers anymore. My wallet is sad.
 

Aside from the DIME Store, where can we shop your work? (plug your Etsy, your website, other stores, upcoming events, etc)

For now, just my Etsy shop.

I'm hoping to expand soon, though, and I'd like to try to do more craft fairs.
 

How did you become involved with DIME?

My mom. She was visiting me one weekend, and I decided to take her to the DIME Store. Well, like any great mother, she embarrassed the heck out of me by going up to one of the owners of the store, Shelley, and going on an on about how great I was at drawing and lettering. Maaaaahhhhhhmmmmmm.... ohmygosh.

Well, it turned out to be one of the best things to happen to me! Shelley gave some great advice for someone like me, just starting out. I immediately started thinking up ideas of cards that I could make (starting small), did lots of research about Etsy, and then jumped in! I submitted an application to sell my silly cards at DIME, and the rest is history!
 

What's your favorite part about being involved in the creative community of Denton?

 The people! Hands down, the people who create and the people who buy from the creative community in Denton are THE BEST. Everyone I've met so far is super supportive and kind. The makers I've met aren't out to one-up each other, and it's really beautiful. If anything, collaboration seems to be highly valued.

Do you have any advice for aspiring Etsy sellers or other local makers?

Research research research! The creative community (not just in Denton, but all over) is very kind and supportive! You can find advice all over the internet! Before I made the leap to start an Etsy shop, I read countless blogs and articles about Etsy shop owners and small business owners. You know, the kind of stuff that's titled "30 things I wish I knew before I started my business" and "This gal runs a fortune 500 company, sews her own clothes, feeds the homeless and is a mother of 3! How does she do it?!" There's some good advice out there.

I feel like a lot of people I know don't do the Reddit thing, but let me tell you... that community has been fantastic to me. I subscribed to CraftFairs, Denton, Etsy, EtsySellers, and SmallBusiness subreddits to stay informed. I reached out to the Etsy subreddit before my first craft fair (the Handmade Harvest this year) and SO many people responded with great advice and encouraging words.

I also started pinning a lot of "Go get 'em!" quotes to my Inspiration board on Pinterest, and would use some of them as backgrounds on my phone. One of my favorites was "Quit Slackin' and Make Sh*t Happen!". It helped me to not waste time on Facebook every time I looked at my phone. Without these motivational backgrounds on my phone, every time I picked up my phone would go something like this: What's that? A notification? I should probably just check that real qui...ohh, half an hour's gone by. Rats. But at least now I know what cat from Disney I am! -I'm Mufasa-

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You can check out Smyth's Etsy shop here. 

WHAT WE DID: DECEMBER 1ST 2014

Every Monday, we like to run a few of our favorite images that have been tagged with #WDDI on Instagram in the past seven days. We call it What We Did. It normally gives us a fairly good idea of what Dentonites of all different backgrounds have been up to. This week was a good one. 

Keep in mind that we're limited here, folks. While we love the photos we've selected to highlight, y'all should definitely take the time to search #WDDI on Instagram. You'll find so many great photos that we jsut didnt' have the space to showcase. 

Anyway, back to the pics. Click the photos, themselves, to be led back to the photographer's Instagram account and follow those people, yo! Tag your Denton fun this week with #WDDI and come back here next Monday to see another collection. Have a great week, everybody!

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@terechairo thinks they should paint the pedestrian bridge to Apogee stadium green. We're quite fond of the rust, ourselves. 

T-minus two days until West Oak Coffee Bar. 

@PastranaStudios and @SomeHorse. 

South Ridge buil themselves a fun little library/book rental stop. 

@Dentoning dolls?!?! Is this even real? We're not sure what to think of these. We kinda wanna collect all of them because, surely, something this strange will inevitably be worth hundreds of dollars, right? Wonder who these were modeled after...

Fall colors with @BaileyGillreath. 

Midlake's studios with @ShainaSheaffPhoto. 

@JubileeFarmDenton got themselves a location!

The courthouse always seems to look prettier this time of year. 

Life sucks when you accidentally wander into a Hitchcock production in the Kroger parking lot. 

Wandering with @breafkast et co. 

@MrsBriggle at the future home of the splash park at Carl Young Sr., Park. 

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DCTA always makes for a pleasant ride. 

The crew at Audacity Brewhouse by @Phototerminus. 

Jazz and donuts are a great Denton combination. 

Crazy, weird BBQ pie and fancy, more refined pie from @TaylorBunch_. 

Exploring with @JayHumez. 

Brunch beverages at Hannah's. 

More fall colors. 

@SundayPrintShop and some tools of the trade. Also, a bolo tie. 

Nice weather makes us jump. 

Let's end with some Thanksgiving dinner. No greens for ya, @ChefWilly?

GIFTED 2014

Spend your money in Denton and Denton will be a better place. Heck, spend your money in Denton at local businesses and things will be even better. We already know a lot of you will be doing your Christmas shopping (or selfish shopping) over the next few days. Why not keep your hard-earned dollars local? 

Anyway, y'all are lucky that there's so many crafty people with initiative living all around you. They make lots of cool stuff that you can purchase as gifts for your friends/family/kiddos/dogs/what-have-you. Below are three separate gift guides that will help you spend money in town. If you have any local gifts you'd like to receive, let us know in the comments and maybe your sister-in-law will buy it for you if she reads the blog.

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FOR THE DENTON LOVER: 

Head over to your favorite booze emporium and get someone a 22oz of Brunch Money or WunderMelon from Armadillo Ale Works. 

A bag of coffee from one of our many different local coffee roasters (which we'll highlight later):Bookish, Macaroni Island, Seven Mile, Coffeewright, or Cultivar (not roasted locally, but we love these dudes). 

Holiday Lighting Collectible Denton Christmas Ornaments. 

A gift certificate to Recycled.

Pre-order your pal a ticket for 35 Denton's return in March of 2015. 

FOR THE DUDES:

A wallet or key lanyard from Bell and Oak makes a great gift for men or women. Clint Wilkinson, owner of Bell and Oak, is crafting some of the most beautiful handmade leather goods around (yes, even outside of Denton). His Instagram feed alone will make you swoon. We're pretty much feeling like we need all leather everything now. Don't even get us started on the amazing 'new leather' smell that happens when you pick up a new piece for your growing wallet collection - it's addicting.

Lessons from the Ghost Note, because he’s always wanted to be a drummer at heart. He just doesn't talk openly about it. 

Is your fella obsessed with early 90's pop culture? Does he ever wonder if a predator would be able to take a wompa in a fight? Get him a Matthew Sallack print. He's down at the community market most Saturdays and has some work available at The DIME Store. 

Y’all play board games, right? We sure do. We like to stroll by More Fun Comics, Books and Games on the square and get a new one every now and then. Small World is great, but if you’re looking for something a bit more casual, then go for Fluxx or Cards Against Humanity (if it’s in stock).

Some Mustache Wax from Rose Costumes.

Or, if you know a guy who is way too into his facial hair (it is Denton, after all), get ‘em the leather dopp kit from Of Mud and Coal and a little of that awesome beard tonic from Austin Street Apothecary that you can buy at The DIME Store. 

A CHL course at Quail Creek Gun Range.

A couple giant aluminum letters (maybe a couple of you can get the letters for “BUTT,” "BEER," or “DUMB” if you hurry) from Serendipity.

FOR THE LADIES: 

This “Dreaming of Denton” dress from Modcloth, designed to make you think about strolling around on the square. 

Bell and Oak just ain't for dudes. Check out this blanket below: 

Go peruse the Crafts subreddit, make some notes, and then head over to SCRAP Denton and get crafty. 

A Rachel Elise clutch - the bag to be seen with in Denton. She makes some awesomely handsome bags for pretty ladies. They even have a date purse - the perfect way to hint that you'd like a date for someone maybe? 

Handmade jewelry from Archerplusshare from her Etsy shop or available at the DIME store. It's the perfect way to buy jewelry without over-thinking diamonds or hearts. 

Lavender bath salts and body butter from Austin Street Apothecary - also available at The DIME Store. 

$30 for 30 days deal at Authentic Yoga Life. Put those Lululemon pants to use!

An Anna Tovar print (or original) makes a great gift for a ladyfriend or even your Mom. The originals might be gone pretty quick, though (because we're gonna buy 'em all). 

A cool, old film camera from Denton Camera Exchange. Maybe some Impossible Film to go with it (depending on what you’re getting).

A future class from Cardo's Farm Project, because natural dyes and canning are totally skills a Dentonite should have. And, yes, they can teach you how to pickle that.

BACK IN THE DAY: OFFBEAT DENTON SITES

BY SHAUN TREAT

J.C. Payne of Denton TX and the world’s biggest ball of barbed wire.

Although Denton is often tiresomely compared to another Texas destination known for keeping it weird, we most certainly do have our own distinct pockets of quirky and kooky. With the coming of school year’s end and summertime beginning, here is a zany Denton bucket list of unique sights that even the old-timers may not know about. Prepare to have your minds blown like you're watching The Twilight Zone. Read on for more on this insane Back in the Day... 

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J.C. Payne of Denton started collecting barbed wire in 1966, but by 1997 the retired brick mason had accumulated enough to submit it to the Guinness Book of World Records. "The Guinness people don't have a ball of barbed wire in their book and they said they weren't interested in having one," a disappointed J.C. explained to Farm Show Magazine, "But we know ours is the biggest ball of barbed wire anywhere in the world.” The largest ball measures 11’6” in diameter and stands two stories high, made up of some 70 miles of over 600 different varieties of barbed wire and weighing an estimated 12 tons. "I get wire from anywhere they're tearing out fence,” Payne explained, “once traveling 180 miles to get a lot of large spools."

J.C. was profiled in a 2001 episode of Ripley’s Believe It Or Not. He kept the big ball of rusted wire out behind the barn at his wife Elsie Ruth's request, which is where it remains still today after his passing in 2004. You’d need special permission to visit the rural private property, where these big rusty orbs are decorated with Christmas lights, but it’s a wild world-class monument to ambitious retirement projects.

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SPONSOR: 

Audacity Brewhouse
Address: 1012 Shady Oaks Dr, Denton, TX 76205
Phone:(940) 218-1987

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Another wacky sight hidden along Bolivar Street north of University has caused many a car to slow to a rubbernecking crawl to glimpse this rarely-seen unofficial Denton landmark. “Texas Jack” is the 10’ tall 3,600 lb gargantuan Jackalope BBQ smoker pit of Joe Amyx, who won his first BBQ Cookoff competition in 1977 at Denton’s North Texas State Fair, taking the first place blue ribbon.  Texas Jack’s tail opens for the fire pit, the belly opens for the meat, the smoke escapes from the ears, and the grease drips from a brass “appendage” (*ahem*) located between his back legs. Mechanics aside, “Texas Jack” barbeque travels the South and is said to be the stuff of legend. This bad boy champion sits atop a flatbed trailer, the envy of many a pit master, and has to be seen to be believed.

Behold, “Texas Jack,” Denton’s blue-ribbon BBQ Jackalope smoker! Photo from BestofDenton. 

If Denton can quietly boast of numerous world-class treasures, at the top of the list would have to be the secret beauty of Mr. Jim’s Hidden Rose Garden. Jim Herbison lovingly grows an amazing rose garden of 400 rose bushes with completely unique-to-Denton varieties, which he competes in the Dallas Rose Show. Secluded on a dead-end Haggard Lane street, this scented eden is completely free and open to the public to view or even purchase a rosebush. Mr. Jim is the sweetest fella you could ever meet, and even allows picnicking under the cool shade for admiring paramours savvy enough to Google directions. This blooming oasis is definitely one of my favorite secret spots in Denton, a true gem.

Jim Herbison tending to his rose garden. Photo by Al Key of the Denton Record Chronicle. You can read more about Herbison here. 

1964 aerial view of Denton’s Nike Missile Base, photo courtesy of the Denton Public Library and the stuff of “duck-and-cover” nuclear nightmares. Photo from The Portal to Texas History. 

But of course there are also some crazy remnants of Denton history from back in the day flung around our county backroads. One of these abandoned locations is the   main reason so many longtime locals genuinely feared that Denton was a Soviet target for nuclear Armageddon during the Cold War. Y’see, Denton was home to a U.S. Army Civil Defense Nike Missile Base just a few miles north of town, which housed anti-aircraft missile batteries and nuclear warheads! Constructed in 1959, the base housed around 120 military personnel and was built as a regional deterrent to long-range Russian nuclear bombers. Apparently, around 4,000 locals (and several demonstrators) attended an open house at the missile base to tour some of the facilities, so it was definitely an open secret. The base was finally closed between 1968 and 1969, and few scattered ruins remain, but many have only vague recollections or rumors they recall from those times. As many remember, LBJ also broke ground on the Denton FEMA facilities in 1959, which was the very first protected underground federal-regional emergency operating center built in the United States. How’s that for making history?

There are a lot more Wacky Denton Sights to savor in future installments, and we’ve barely scratched the surface! But you tell us, dear readers, what are your favorite secret sights and hidden spots around Denton? Goodness knows Denton overflows with so many of our own uniquely original pockets of offbeat oddities!

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Shaun Treat is founder of the Denton Haunts historical ghost tour. Doc has written about numerous local places and personalities at his Denton Haunts blog, and is forever indebted to the great work of the fine folks with the Denton County Historical Commission and local keepers of history like Mike Cochran and Laura Douglas at the Emily Fowler Library for their tireless work in helping preserve Denton’s intriguing past.

THE DEN10: NOVEMBER 26th

There's quite a bit happening in town if Denton is your home for this holiday weekend. Whether you're traveling or not, take a moment and be reflective on what you are truly thankful for this year. We know everyone else is telling you to do that, but whom are you more likely to listen to; a trusted friend or a local arts and culture blog? Last year, Denton city council member, Kevin Roden, gave some thoughts on Banning Politics from the Thanksgiving Table, which this year seems even more poignant with the unfolding events in Ferguson and the discussions that will inevitably occur this week over gravy and turkey. We'd like to endorse and encourage this idea of practicing local democracy at the dinner table. Lets also reflect on how we can serve our community better. Where are there needs to be met? Where is there injustice that has been unanswered? Who are the under-represented people and how do we give them a voice? Let's search our souls and answer the many needs that are here in our own backyards. The needs are great but greater is the spirit and determination of the residents of Denton and we should all be truly thankful for the chance to work hard at work worth doing. Happy Thanksgiving, y'all. Eat some good food and be thankful for what you have. 

Questions comments and misdirections may be directed towards glen@wedentondoit.com

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Wednesday, November 26th
Rotary Fruit of the Rio Valley | Denton Rotary | All Day
Every year, Denton Noon Club of Rotary International puts on a pretty sweet fruit sale. Proceeds of the sale get reinvested back into the community and this year you can order it all online here.

Thanksgiving Wine Class | Wine Squared | 7PM | $15
RSVP and get the skinny on what fits best with your spread. Impress your friends!

Thursday, November 27th
Downtown Denton Turkey Trot 5k | Oak St. Drafthouse | 8AM
It’s a $15 entry fee to trot a 5k or 10k and you’ll get a wicked t-shirt and a glass. Five bucks per entry will benefit the Denton Food Bank and you can also just bring your canned food, as well.

Thanksgiving | Where You Are | All Day 
We’re thankful for our vibrant and diverse community and sweet potatoes. What are you thankful for?

Thanksgiving Community Banquet | Calhoun Middle School | 11AM - 2PM

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Friday, November 28th
Weldon’s 58th Anniversary Celebration | Weldon’s Saddle Shop | 8:30AM
Come out and celebrate the history of this saddle shop on the corner of Hickory & Bell and check out the spur collection and the shop where all the Bell & Oak wares are handmade.

Saturday, November 29th
Last Market Day of 2014: Holiday Market Day | Denton County Historic Park | 9AM
Well, they’ve done it again. The amazing people who put on the community market should be thanked and patted on the back for another fantastic year of expansion for Community Market. Way to go, Vicki and Kati! We’re already looking forward to next year.

Small Busines Saturday | DIME Store | 10AM - 6PM
Food trucks, a hot chocolate bar and all your awesome local goods available for you to buy up in time for not stressing out about buying Christmas presents. Skip the black Friday stampede and go for the complimentary hot chocolate and giveaways at DIME Store.

Stage Fright! Denton Does The Band | Dan’s Silver Leaf | 9PM | $10
Probably the best group of musicians in town give their treatment to on of the best bands in history: The Band. Worth every penny and then some.

“Book” Friday | Recycled Books | 9AM-9PM
We see what you did there! Recycled has 20% off everything, all weekend. Seriously, shop local.

Sunday, November 30th
Battle Of The Beards | Dusty’s | 5PM
Should be a pretty fierce battle benefiting cancer awareness.

WHAT WE DID: NOVEMBER 24TH 2014

Blah, blah, blah...Texas weather is fickle or something - snow then sunshine. We get it. Y'all get it. Either way, last week had a lot to offer. There was some spot-on cuddle weather, lots of rain, and a beautiful Sunday to cap it off. In addition, there was lots of culture and exploring to take in, too, and it looks as if y'all took full advantage of that fact. 

What We Did is our weekly roundup of our favorite photos that were tagged #WDDI on Instagram from the past seven days. You can click the images themselves, to be linked back to that photographer's Instagram page.

This week you have to be thankful for stuff, which isn't really a problem for us because we're surrounded by great people all the time. Keep that in mind when you're out taking and tagging photos during the week. Go get 'em, y'all!

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@DentonKate and some beautiful black and white courthouse action leads us off this week.

Our ex-hometown girl, Sarah Jaffe, played Dan's yesterday with John Congleton. 

Boombachs at Atomic Candy for a Denton Staged performance. Insert candy pun. 

@ChaseRecord playing at J and J's Friday evening. Photo by @Zach_Ashcraft. 

The original manuscript of "Fight, North Texas." 

Is synchronized bartending a thing yet? Possibly the first olympic sport to come out of Denton? 

We could talk about what the Bear's Den is/was, but we think it might be better off for the mystery to remain. 

@JubileeFarmDenton uses the pouch system. 

West Oak Coffee Bar within a few weeks now, y'all. @BellandOak is gettin' 'em prepped. 

Urban exploration Part 1 with @cassidy_teague. 

Urban Exploration Part 2 with @Kokiri330. 

@ChristianBlues

@ThePinkAntler likes the sites on her way home, especially that dead opossum. 

Rock Lottery was a hit again this year. What was your favorite band? Photo by @cereboso. 

Foggy landscapes part 1 with @samnoel__. 

Foggy landscapes part 2 with @BaileyGillreath. 

Cultivar Coffee hosts a barista throwdown on the third Tuesday of every month. We mostly just wanted to highlight the screwed up portion of this panorama on the right edge because failed panoramas are one of the things we're thankful for this week. 

TECHMILL INTERVIEW: CLARISSA REDWINE

By Danielle Longueville

Marshall Culpepper, Clarissa Redwine and a guy with a beard and teeth named Tyler Browder. 

TechMill, a Denton non-profit group assembled to help create and launch technology-related businesses in Denton, had an open house last night to roll out their collaborative workspace concept in collaboration with Square 205. We hung out and tried to have a conversation with some people but we aren't sure if Pascal is a computer language or a binary code so we just drank off the keg of Greenbelt, nodded and laughed when we thought it seemed appropriate. 010010111001, right? The following is an interview we had with one of TechMill's superstars (and all around cool person, Clarissa Redwine). Read on for more. 

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WDDI: Tell us how TechMill started. 

Well, first there were doers.  About a year ago, the community had several tech startup advocates pop up and start putting on events,  looking for other like-minded folks.  The organizers of OpenHack, LittleDOCC, Startup Weekend, DentonJelly, and a few other initiatives started hanging out and soon decided we could do a lot more for the community as a collective.  And that’s what we are today, simply a collective of movers and shakers, all working on different initiatives, toward the ultimate goal of growing the Denton tech startup community.

Who are some prominent figures responsible for the creation and establishment of the organization?

Every single person on our Board of Directors has made a significant impact in the tech startup community in some way, and that’s precisely why we work together.  We have a shared vision.  Here’s our team: Daniel Abasolo, Tyler Browder, Marshall Culpepper, Patrick Peters, Clarissa Redwine, Dave Sims, & Kyle Taylor.

What’s the coolest thing to come out of TechMill so far?

The coolest thing to come out of TechMill is the critical mass of the community network. Depth of skill and collective fervor is magnified when brought together.  Now, when someone wants to build something or learn something, there’s a good chance they can find an intersection in the community that will provide the contacts and tools they need.  

How do you envision TechMill growing?

We subscribe to the bootstrap mentality where validation comes before growth.  So, we will continue to grow sustainably, only pushing forward after we’ve verified that the direction is supported by the larger community.  I guess, to put it simply, TechMill will grow as the community grows, in whatever direction that is.

Do you guys have any long term goals about involvement with the city?

We sure do!  We see the city taking big steps to support our tech startup scene.  We want to help them do it.  One major initiative we will announce at the open house event is the Open iBeacon Network. I have been pulling together the resources to make Denton the first open beacon enabled city in the world.  We’re starting with the Square and working outward, building a network of beacons that is open to developers and startups.  This will define Denton as a city for innovative tech startups working with the latest technology.  

Can anyone become a member of TechMill, or what’s the process like in how to get involved?

Absolutely. We look for community minded people who are interested in working in a social environment.  Tech startups can really benefit from the network.

Aside from this new coworking space you guys have opened up, where else can we find y’all?

Our original location at Banter is staying open as a free coworking space for the community. We’re also at Banter every other Tuesday from 8-9am for LittleDOCC, a chat about the latest in tech.  Every third Wednesday of the month we’re at Banter for OpenHack.  All tech startup community events- including events from the Innovation Greenhouse, UNT’s the Factory, and the library’s The Forge- can be found on the Startup Denton Tech Meetup Page. 

What’s your greatest memory so far on the journey to making this shared dream happen?

My favorite memory is of the very first meeting we had as a community.  About a year ago, I asked Kevin Roden if he could invite all the tech people he knew in Denton to his house so I could meet them.  It was super cold and late at night but about a dozen of us showed up, drank beer, and collaborated about building the denton tech startup community.  That was the first glimmer of what the denton tech scene could be- altruistic, dedicated, and ready to build.

Fun Fact: It was also super icy and our TechMill cofounder Kyle ended up totaling his car that night.  

So we know that as tried-and-true Dentonites, everyone has their favorite coffee spot. So tell us where your allegiance lies...

Haha- I think I have to say Banter- not because of the coffee- but because of the community.  Banter supports the maker culture of Denton brilliantly.  If anyone has a meetup and needs a space, they will hook you up!

Where can we find more information about TechMill and other coworking spaces? Have any good recommendations?

Clarissa: The best way to learn more about the Denton tech startup community is to come to an event.  All events are posted on the Startup Denton Tech meetup page.

Thanks Clarissa!