Fort Worth Weekly // October 30 - November 5, 2024
Reaching Higher
A small group of far-right protesters and LGBTQ+ supporters confronted each other outside a beleaguered yet resilient metaphysical shop.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY
JASON BRIMMER
EATS & DRINKS
Veterans of war and the food scene deserve your patronage all year long. BY
LAURIE JAMES
BUCK U
A big comeback win against Tech has us dreaming of a Frog resurgence. BY
BUCK D. ELLIOTT
BOOKS
Just in time for Halloween, Road Kill, Vol. 9 and its pure Texas horror arrives. BY E.R.
BILLS
MUSIC
Big Heaven releases perhaps its coolest work to date before breaking up. BY
STEVE STEWARD
Veterans’ Year
This
By Laurie James
LGBTQ+ Protest Fizzles Out
Far-right
By Jason Brimmer
Fright Nights
Full of gore and dread, Road Kill, Vol. 9 hits shelves in time for horror season.
By E.R. Bills
Pulling Threads
Though they’re broken up now, Big Heaven recently released three stellar tracks worth your time.
By Steve Steward
Anthony Mariani, Editor
Lee Newquist, Publisher
Bob Niehoff, General Manager
Michael Newquist, Regional Director
Ryan Burger, Art Director
Jennifer Bovee, Marketing Director
Clintastic, Brand Ambassador
Emmy Smith, Proofreader
Julie Strehl, Account Executive
Sarah Niehoff, Account Executive
Stacey Hammons, Senior Account Executive
Tony Diaz, District Manager
Wyatt Newquist, Account Executive
CONTRIBUTORS
Christina Berger, E.R. Bills, Jason Brimmer, Buck D. Elliott, Juan R. Govea, Patrick Higgins, Laurie James, Kristian Lin, Cody Neathery, Wyatt Newquist, Steve Steward, Teri Webster, Ken Wheatcroft-Pardue, Elaine Wilder, Cole Williams
EDITORIAL BOARD
Laurie James, Anthony Mariani, Emmy Smith, Steve Steward
Cover photo by Jason Brimmer
Reaching Higher
A small group of far-right protesters and LGBTQ+ supporters confronted each other outside a beleaguered yet resilient metaphysical shop.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JASON BRIMMER
A right-wing influencer and a national traditional-Catholic group clashed with supporters of Higher Purpose Emporium on Saturday. The 3-year-old Northside metaphysical shop hosted a Pride fair in two parts: the first for LGBTQ+ children and their parents, the second for LGBTQ+ adults only. Right-wingers conflated the two, resulting in the few protesters and counterprotesters. Security hired by Higher Purpose owner Ivy Aranaught helped keep things at a low boil. Still, that didn’t stop the two sides from confronting each other.
Protect Texas Kids’ Kelly Neidert and the New Columbia Movement had been planning to protest Higher Purpose’s Pride fair for weeks (“Anti-Rainbow Coalition,” Sep 27), circling Aranaught and her business on the internet and in chat rooms.
For Aranaught, attention from the far right is nothing new. Since the Emporium opened, it has experienced everything from online threats to in-person ones.
“The very first Pride fair that we did, we had protesters come from, like, three different churches,” Aranaught remembered. “This guy was calling me and this 12-year-old girl a bunch of slurs, accusing us of being pedophiles.”
At one point, the man, whom Aranaught believes may have tied one on before taking to the streets, lifted his shirt to show off a pistol. When she asked if she was to interpret that as threat, the man flicked off the safety. Odd. Being so concerned for the health and well-being of children, you can only wonder why he decided to buck-up with a firearm. But reason isn’t extremists’ strong suit.
The small group of New Columbians arrived first, assembling in a line directly across the street from Higher Purpose. Without directly engaging with the attendees of the Pride fair, the New Columbia protesters spread out a banner stating simply, “We Want God” and, with one hoisting a New Columbia flag on his shoulders, began to pray the Rosary.
When asked why this particular prayer was used, one New Columbian said, “The prayer of the Rosary is, as Catholics, one of the most powerful spiritual weapons that we have. We genuinely believe in the power that it has to change things and to convert people. Events do get shut down. People do
eventually come back to God, and that is what we want.”
While they were praying, one of the Pride event attendees took up a megaphone and announced that he was going to “roast these bigots.” From his place across the street, he took issue with the knot in a
New Columbian’s necktie. A half Windsor? Try harder next time. High-waisted stonewashed jeans? Please.
Neidert, perhaps spurred on by the mockery of her “trashy $5 cowboy boots,” and her vanishingly small retinue of supporter (singular) were the first and only protesters to cross the street.
Then the cellphones came out, one in the hand of each protester. Both sides marched up and down the sidewalk in front of Higher Purpose, streaming live. Arguments over which side were the true protectors of children’s rights erupted. A counterprotester wearing a wide-brimmed red hat festooned with plastic devil horns was told he was going to hell. After a hearty laugh, he responded, “Do I look like someone who is afraid of hell?” A fair question.
A small group of Pride attendees chased Neidert up and down the sidewalk, using Pride flags to keep her from videoing any of the kids in the shop, fearing she would dox them.
“You need to get back on your lithium,” Neidert said to an attendee.
“Why don’t you worry about all those kids you don’t have, Kelly?” came a quick and cutting response.
After an hour of marching and bickering, Neidert and her co-protester retreated across the street. Banners were rolled up, flags were folded, videos were uploaded to social media, and the protest simply fizzled out.
During its short lifespan, Aranaught had remained inside running the Pride fair.
“I was raised in the church,” she said. “I was so in the church that I went to a private Christian school. I was in choir. I almost went to seminary. I remember how difficult it was for me to unpack that indoctrination and trauma. If any of [the Christian protesters] ever came in here and felt like they needed a place to belong, we would gladly do that. We are just trying to create an open space where kids or anyone can come and feel welcome and just be and exist and not have to be guarded.”
One of the New Columbia protesters, when asked what he and his group wanted, said they’re trying to create a place for “young men who are struggling to come together and create a fraternity,” where the young men can feel a sense of purpose.
At least both Aranaught and the trad Caths would seem to be in the same business then, that of offering healing and acceptance to those who feel lost and cast away, people reaching and scraping their way though life, people looking for help. Perhaps next time, there need be no protest at all. Perhaps next time, a simple conversation can be had. l
This story reflects the opinions and fact-gathering of the author(s) and only the author(s) and not the Fort Worth Weekly. To submit a column, please email Editor Anthony Mariani at Anthony@FWWeekly. com. He will gently edit it for clarity and concision.
Higher Purpose Emporium owner Ivy Aranaught: “The very first Pride fair that we did, we had protesters come from, like, three different churches. This guy was calling me and this 12-year-old girl a bunch of slurs, accusing us of being pedophiles.”
Protect Texas Kids’ Kelly Neidert, perhaps spurred on by the mockery of her “trashy $5 cowboy boots,” and her vanishingly small retinue of supporter (singular) were the first and only protesters to cross the street.
Protect Texas Kids’ Kelly Neidert and the New Columbia Movement had been planning to protest Higher Purpose’s Pride fair for weeks, circling owner Ivy Aranaught and her business on the internet and in chat rooms.
Protect Texas Kids’ Kelly Neidert to a Pride supporter: “You need to get back on your lithium.”
Without directly engaging with the attendees of the Pride fair, the New Columbia protesters spread out a banner stating simply, “We Want God” and, with one hoisting a New Columbia flag on his shoulders, began to pray the Rosary.
One New Columbia protester said they’re trying to create a place for “young men who are struggling to come together and create a fraternity,” where the young men can feel a sense of purpose.
One New Columbian said, “The prayer of the Rosary is, as Catholics, one of the most powerful spiritual weapons that we have. We genuinely believe in the power that it has to change things and to convert people. Events do get shut down. People do eventually come back to God, and that is what we want.”
Friday 11/1 - 9 am - 5 pm Saturday 11/2 - 9 am - 5 pm Sunday 11/3 - 9 am - 3 pm
the New Columbians prayed, one of the Pride event attendees took up a megaphone and announced that he was going to “roast these bigots.”
TO
ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND PARTIES:
General Motors LLC, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit No. 19156, which would authorize continued operation of the automobile manufacturing facility located at 2525 East Abram Street, Arlington, Tarrant County, Texas 76010. Additional information concerning this application is contained in the public notice section of this newspaper.
Homestand
The Horned Frogs are out-blundered by visiting Texas Tech while improving to 5-3 on the season.
BY BUCK D. ELLIOTT
Despite being the child of an English teacher and the husband to one, I’ve never possessed a penchant for consuming classical literature. Yet it might behoove Frogs fans to crack open a copy of Dante’s Divine Comedy, particularly heeding the phrase adorning the gates of hell: “Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.” It should be inscribed in the damn walls of Amon G. Carter Stadium because if you’re watching with any regularity, just assume the worst and then act pleasantly surprised when something goes right.
Changing the narrative from early in the season, the Frogs started fast and scored on their opening and third offensive possessions to secure an early 14-3 lead and dupe fans into believing the offense had found answers to doubts regarding the running game, play-calling, and ball security which have grown with the rate of an aggressive brain tumor throughout this season. Just as fans celebrated remission, quarterback Josh Hoover was sacked and stripped of the ball, giving the tortilla tossers a 4-yard field and the opportunity to shift momentum. TCU’s defense held tight, holding Tech to zero yards on three plays, but the Red Raiders gambled successfully on a fake field goal, resulting in a touchdown. From that point on, nothing went particularly well for the Frog offense. In fact, the next six drives resulted in zero points, two interceptions, and one turnover on downs.
It was easy and reasonable to abandon all hope at that point. Despite holding star Raider running back Tahj Brooks to only collateral damage, backup quarterback Will Hammond (who came in for the injured Behren Morton) gashed the TCU defense with his legs and arm and was seemingly leading the Lubbockites for an upset while wielding a 31-14 lead. Frog OC Kendal Briles and Hoover collaborated for a long drive featuring mostly the rushing game aided by a TTU facemask penalty to bring the game within two possessions. The Raiders would net another field goal, but the Frog receiving corps came alive with Jack Bech reeling in a 52-yard reception that would lead to a touchdown and Eric McAlister turning a short reception into an 84-yard highlight for a one-point purple lead.
Despite the offensive heroics by all of TCU’s big-name receivers with receptions
on Saturday for more than 50 yards (Bech, McAllister, and Savion Williams), the defense is quietly becoming the factor responsible for TCU surviving their way into two consecutive conference wins. With five minutes remaining, and trailing by a single point, Tech marched their way into the wrong half of the field and looked poised to bleed the clock before kicking a field goal and escaping with a win. It was at that point that the Raider frosh quarterback was walloped, knocking the ball loose and, with it, Tech’s winning chances.
Homecoming proved a wild game between two familiar teams who’ve had plenty. Sonny Dykes did his dad proud by preventing Tech coach Joey McGuire from becoming the second Red Raider honcho to beat TCU in consecutive years. Overcoming a 17-point deficit left his late father alone in the records for at least two more years.
Despite surrendering 34 points, the defense allowed touchdowns on only three drives, forced four field goal attempts (two successful, one missed, one fake for a touchdown), and recovered fumbles on the Raiders’ final two drives. Andy Avalos’ group also showed continued resilience by weathering the slings and arrows of their offense committing multiple turnovers, commonly in their own territory. Brooks was held mostly in check, and even though he finished with 121 yards on 30 attempts, only four yards per carry is a respectable outing from a group that seemingly couldn’t stop anyone running the ball against Houston or UCF.
Despite losing their first two conference games, which were both very winnable, the Frogs are sitting fifth in the Big 12 ahead of Tech. BYU and Iowa State are both undefeated and in first and second place, respectively. Kansas State sits in third and Colorado in fourth. K-State’s only loss so far was to BYU and Colorado’s to K-State. Other than a clash between the Cyclones and Wildcats in the final week of the regular
season, none of the Top 5 teams meet the remainder of the season. Still, the Big 12 has proven nothing less than a minefield for everyone. K-State narrowly outlasted their in-state rival this weekend, and the Cyclones survived UCF with a touchdown in the final minute to edge out a threepoint victory. The Frogs have only one remaining opponent with a winning record (Cincinnati) through the final stretch of the season. It’s an extremely small chance, but a late resurgence for the offense, combined with an improving defense, could land the Frogs with an outside chance to compete for the conference title if the teams above them stumble and TCU somehow backs their way into a nine-win season.
Up next is TCU’s oldest rival, Baylor, for the latest edition of the Revivalry between two schools who both called Waco home when they were founded. This game is now the most consistent matchup in all of major Texas college football. The Frogs and Bears have met one more time in their series history than the now-SEC’s big and little brother duo of the Longhorns and Aggies — I’ll let your own bias/delusion let you decide which is which. The Frogs carry a six-victory lead into the 120th game between the Baptists and Disciples, and both schools who were at least considering firing their head coaches in early October are eyeing a third straight victory. The Bears are victims of what has shown itself to be a very difficult early conference slate, facing three of the four top squads. An overtime loss to Colorado and a six-point shortfall against BYU reveal the Bears are a better team than their record indicates. Neither Texas private school is likely to find themselves in the national conversation, but Saturday evening in McLane Stadium is a de facto best-Big12-team-in-Texas championship. Both the Frogs and Bears have recently beaten Tech, and while Houston doesn’t play the Bears for a few more weeks, I really just don’t
take them seriously, and, sadly, neither did Dykes and company.
Honestly, I don’t love TCU’s chances in this game. Sophomore quarterback Sawyer Robertson is a true dual-threat weapon and has been the Bears’ leading or second-leading rusher multiple times this season. Avalos’ crew have recently improved against the rush, but we saw firsthand on homecoming weekend how the introduction of another factor in that phase can stymie the group. Also, expect Robertson to air the ball out 30-plus times, and the TCU secondary is competent enough but far from a lockdown group. The purple D has also not produced many extra opportunities for their offense, only successfully intercepting the ball four times and recovering three fumbles on the entire season. In comparison, opposing defenses have picked off Hoover eight total times, and the Frogs have collectively lost 10 fumbles — that’s 2.25 lost turnovers per game against less than one forced. One of those three fumbles was the final play against Tech, where the Raiders were lateralling the ball with no time left on the clock, which means the defense forced and recovered one fumble through the first seven games.
Last weekend, TCU showed a greater commitment to a balanced offensive attack than ever before. Williams has become the primary running back and with success, while freshman Jeremy Payne is proving he deserves auxiliary touches. Even Hoover ran the ball on purpose but rose gingerly after he was tackled, and I don’t expect that to be a mainstay. If Briles can collaborate with his quarterback for zero turnovers against his former team, the Frogs can likely produce another nailbiter, but I can’t, in good conscience, predict a Frog victory in Wacoland based on what I’ve seen from both teams. The best bet for Frog fanatics is to read some classical literature, abandon all hope, realize we’re in hell, and try to find the comedy in it all. l
Savion Williams logged 153 all-purpose yards along with a rushing and receiving touchdown on Saturday during TCU’s come-from-behind win over Texas Tech.
Support for
Kimbell is provided in part by Arts Fort Worth and the Texas Commission on the Arts.
Mummy Mask (detail), Roman, c. A.D. 120–170, stucco/gesso with paint, gold leaf, and glass inlays. Kimbell Art Museum, AP 1970.05
BOOKS
Dark Tome
The horrorific ninth volume of Road Kill arrives at a precarious time for Texas and the rest of civilization.
BY E.R. BILLS
Early on in Oscar winner Kathryn Bigelow’s Texas horror classic Near Dark (1987), a Winnebago speeds across a dusty Lone Star landscape. The dingy RV becomes a telling vehicle for the entire plotline: monsters on the run, trying to survive, picking up fresh blood along the way.
Starring film legend and late Fort Worthian Bill Paxton and Lance Henriksen, the movie is the perfect metaphor for Texas’ actual, perennial mobile home of horror, Road Kill: Texas Horror by Texas Writers, which is now in its ninth volume.
Over the years, Road Kill has featured Joe R. Lansdale, Katherine Anne Porter, Robert E. Howard, Stephen Graham Jones, O. Henry, Russell C. Conner, Bonnie Jo Stufflebeam, Madison Estes, filmmaker Glen Coburn, David Bowles, Mario E. Martinez, William Jensen, Jonathan Duckworth, Patrick C. Harrison III, Cedric May, Patrice Sarath, Joe McKinney, Rhonda Jackson Garcia, and myself, among many others. Lesser states produce a few gory writers here and there, but Texas breeds horrorsmiths like plagues of locusts, and this year’s swarm is awesome.
Kathleen Kent joins the motley assemblage with a chilling take on the repercussions of the New London School Explosion in 1937 which killed more than 300 students and teachers. In “The Last of the Kilgore Boohags,” the New York Times bestselling author depicts an unassuming spirit who returns to mete out misery to heedless descendants of those responsible for the tragedy.
In “Civilized Homes,” William Jensen lends his creepy prose to a curse befalling a young heir and his girlfriend, who have
a look at an old house he was just given but find the place comes with a George Armstrong Custer-like curse. You assume maybe they’ll fix it up and flip it, but the ending may flip you out.
Then there’s Lucas Strough’s “Toadflax,” a story that, in an almost Chaucer-esque fashion, eerily mirrors the sociopolitical status quo, and Houstonite Aimee Trask’s “Internal Rhyme,” which places compelling stand-ins for the Lone Star political patriarchy in her crosshairs, wickedly terminates their male exigencies with discerning prejudice.
In “Feral,” San Antonio native C.W. Stephenson gets back to nature with a harrowing tale of an encounter with an alpha member of the state’s fastest-growing population, and Houston splatterpunk writer Jae Mazer returns with “Garden Dirt and Hill Country Wine,” a frightening riff on postpartum depression, introducing a method of “mother’s little helper” that may cause shrinkage in half the male readership.
Armando Sangre’s “Fine Leather” may scare the pants off you, and M.E. Splawn’s “The Thing on Falling Star Hill” will make you think twice before reaching for the stars.
Published by HellBound Books, Road Kill 9 is a superior collection of horror fiction that leans on your sensibilities, fades out to allow you a breath, and then wallops you square in the craw often when you least expect it. The protagonists (who may also be antagonists) are compelling, the plotlines are usually tight, and some of the shocking denouements practically dare you to look away, but that’s not really an option.
Just a smidge over seven centuries ago, Dante Alighieri explored the nine circles of hell in The Inferno. Curator Bret McCormick’s Road Kill 9 lays out a survey of some of the same territory — the circles of hell lying just below Texas soil. It’s a fine Texas two-step, performed on your eyelids instead of a dance floor. l
Road Kill: Texas Horror by Texas
Did you know that Stage West Theatre (821 W Vickery Blvd, Fort Worth, 817-784-9378) sometimes shows films? Nor did I. At 7pm, the Fort Worth Film Club, a community group that bonds through a shared love of cinema, is meeting there for a screening of Hausu/ House (1977) followed by a discussion of this classic Japanese avant-garde-horrormeets-dark-comedy film. Directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi, it’s about a schoolgirl named Gorgeous who, along with six
friends, experiences supernatural events and encounters malevolent spirits at her aunt’s home in the country. Admission is free. (If you’re reading this later in the week and missed the fun, you can also stream House on HBO Max, the Max Amazon Channel, or Criterion Channel or purchase it on Apple TV or Prime Video.)
There are Halloween celebrations all over town tonight. If you’re still formulating your game plan,
check out last week’s Eats & Drinks article “Not-so-Earthly Delights” on FWWeekly. com for a partial look. One that stood out to me was A Night of Misfit Mayhem at Tarantula Tiki Lounge (117 S Main St, Fort Worth, @Turantula_Tiki). Along with themed drinks and live music by Go-Go Rillas, Prof. Fuzz 63, and Daughters of Evil, there will also be pop-ups, including flash tattoos by FFAT TATT and a vintage market. Doors open at 5pm, and the music starts at 7pm. Cool tiki prizes await those in the best costumes. And thanks to Mount Gay Barbados Rum, Planteray Rum, and Rèmy Cointreau, there is no cost to attend.
Family film night at (501 W 7th St, Fort Worth, 817-870-1692) features a special screening of 2017’s Coco under the stars. The story follows 12-year-old Miguel, who is accidentally transported to the Land of the Dead, where he seeks the help of his deceased musician great-great-grandfather to return to his family and reverse a ban on music. The concept for Coco was inspired by Día de los Muertos (Nov 1 and 2). There are complimentary treats while supplies last for kids 12 and under in Halloween or Day of the Dead costumes. Free parking is provided in the upper floor of the First on 7th Garage (625 Burnett St, Fort Worth, 682-747-6991). There is no cost to attend. Just bring your own blanket.
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden (3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth,
817-463-4160) invites visitors to explore the arts and culture of Japan at the Fall Japanese Festival 9am-5pm Sat-Sun. Presented by the Fort Worth Japanese Society, the festival takes place at the Japanese Garden inside FWBG and includes a strolling garden with winding paths through bamboo, cherry, and magnolia trees, plus bridges and koi ponds. Along with seeing arts and crafts demonstrations, dance performances, and live music, you will be able to learn new skills at some hands-on workshops. Ticket are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $6 for kids 6-15, and free for children under 6 in advance at FWBG.org/JapaneseFestival/. FWBG/BRIT members also get in free.
continued on page 22
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Burnett Park with a free screening of Coco on Friday.
The Fort Worth Film Club hosts a screening of the 1977 Japanese horror/thriller/comedy Hausu/House at Stage West Wednesday.
EATS & drinks
Here’s to Veterans
Whether a 4-year-old eatery finally celebrating its grand opening or a veteran-owned spot, there’s lots to celebrate this Veterans Day.
BY LAURIE JAMES
Katrina and Travis Carpenter cut the ribbon on their revamped eponymous cafe in October, and the event was both a celebration of the expanded seating and bar area and their actual grand opening, four years
in. Carpenter’s Cafe (1116 Pennsylvania Av, Fort Worth, 682-499-8630) definitely counts as a veteran establishment, having opened in February 2020 after transitioning from an Airstream trailer on South Main Street. Before the Carpenters could celebrate their grand opening, the restaurant, along with every other spot in the county, was closed, then limited to takeout options for most of that year.
A couple of weeks ago, I discussed the fragility of the restaurant industry (“Stalwarts and Legends,” Oct. 16). Most new eateries fail within the first three years. The Carpenters managed to avoid becoming a statistic through a combo of catering gigs, word of mouth, an attempt at Sunday Suppers, and location (across from Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital on the South Side, and scrubs have to eat). All crises pass, and the
Carpenters were ready to turn their formal 1-year anniversary into an opening day. Enter: Winter Storm Uri, which dumped a record amount of snow and ice over all 254 Texas counties in February 2021. In addition to causing real catastrophes in Fort Worth (six people died, and more than 30 were injured on black ice-covered roads), the wicked weather shut down the first year/opening
continued on page 19
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The new mural outside Carpenter’s Cafe appropriately says “gather” in ASL.
Carpenter’s Cafe has a new patio outside that people are loving.
day festivities. Katrina is a force –– when the horrific weather snowed on her parade, she was canvassing grocery stores for milk to help fellow restaurateur Mia Moss continue to run her shop, Black Coffee.
The Carpenters’ storefront has been undergoing a refresh and renovation (including a crowd-funded patio) for what seems like forever, so it was with no small amount of joy that a group of family and friends got to celebrate last week. The freshened-up space makes for a lovely, comfy, restful oasis. A wall of photos in the hallway showcases family –– the Carpenters’ twins, who helped open the cafe in 2020, and Katrina’s mother Sharon, who has her own group of fans. The Carpenters have also included a picture of the Weekly’s cover story from 2020 in their family gallery: Katrina said we were the first to cover them and credits the publicity for the consistency of takeout orders during that difficult first year.
Since it’s almost Veterans Day (Monday, Nov. 11, this year), people who are veterans and those like me who are veteran-adjacent look around for the celebratory meals that honor the people who’ve served our country. And there are plenty –– but my veteran hubby doesn’t drink Starbucks or Dunkin’, and he won’t go to Hooters, so instead of looking for freebies this year, what about supporting an actual veteran-owned food or drink establishment? While there are apparently a
substantial number of veteran-owned firing ranges and security companies in the 817, there appear to be few restaurants owned by veterans.
Texas Drip (404 Main St, Ste 104, Azle, 817-406-4110) is a veteran-owned establishment that followed the Carpenter’s formula: Start in a food truck, then move to a brickand-mortar spot. The coffee shop opened in September, and they’re heavy on the Azle Hornets fandom along with homemade breakfast and brunch sammies. You can find
pulled pork (taco or sandwich), egg salad, chicken salad, or tuna salad sandwiches, all at an unheard-of $5.50 with a bag of chips, people. The drip coffee (Freedom Blend, natch, roasted in-state) is smoothly drinkable on its own. Mochas, cappuccinos, lattes, and cold-foam accessories are all under $6.
Another option to pay it forward to a veteran-owned restaurant: The Patriotic Pig Smokehouse (3900 Rufe Snow Dr, North Richland Hills, 817-601-5256) was started by an Army veteran in 2016, which classifies
this as a veteran establishment twice over.
The Patriotic Pig also grew from a food truck to catering to a brick-and-mortar store. The restaurant was spotlighted in Texas Monthly last year for their surprising following as wedding caterers. Make it a point this month to stop by a locally owned restaurant –– maybe one of your veteran favorites or maybe one owned by a veteran. “Thank you for your service” means more when you’re shopping someone’s small business. l
Katrina and Travis Carpenter have a lot to be thankful for the third time they tried to host a grand opening.
Laurie James
Texas Drip’s new location features an oddly constructed area that was perfect for a cozy nook.
Texas Drip has a new brick-and-mortar space in Azle.
Texas Drip/Facebook
MUSIC
Farewell, Big Heaven
The
dissolution of one of town’s longestrunning indie outfits ends on a high note.
BY STEVE STEWARD
Big Heaven recently released their latest EP, the long-running indie-pop band’s third such recording in their seven-year history, and from the Eddie Van Halen-worshiping guitar licks of opening track “’80s Ohio Dream,” Threads indicates the folks in Big Heaven had made an exciting veer in their stylistic journey. It wasn’t that I thought their synth-forward, ’60s girl group-inspired rock had grown stale, only that an approximation of EVH’s fabled, high-gain, flange-and-phaser “brown sound” in a Big Heaven song right off the bat was refreshing. I thought it was a fun, bold move for a band that has been around for a while leaning into a new direction.
Unfortunately, that new direction ran out of road a couple of weeks later, when Big Heaven announced their breakup on social media not long after the EP came out.
I asked founder and frontwoman Mandy Hand what had happened, and as she sketched the band’s history leading up to the sad announcement, I was struck by how many people had crewed Big Heaven over the years — in terms of member turnover, they’re practically a local music analog to Yes (which, I suppose, makes Hand Big Heaven’s Chris Squire). Hand, a multi-instrumentalist and music teacher, told me Big Heaven was conceived in 2017 as a “Kinks cover project” that eventually became an original outfit. Over the ensuing years and a lineup that seemed perpetually in flux, Hand moved from guitar and vocals to just vocals to vocals and synth and, finally, to vocals and bass. The core lineup eventually became Hand on synths, Sam Dobbin on drums, Brock Miller on guitar, and Peter Marsh on bass.
In 2021, Hand invited Marsh’s then-girlfriend Stephanie Benjamin to sing backup and perform auxiliary percussion. Yet this lineup wouldn’t hold either, as Miller moved away at the end of that year. Guitarist Kevin Wellendorf stepped in, and for two years, Big Heaven had what Hand called their “most cohesive core five” until they parted ways with Marsh in 2023.
at Wellendorf’s Low Hound Studios, where they’d recorded “Ohio” before Marsh’s departure and the EP’s third track, “Connections.” Wellendorf, who tracked, mixed, and mastered the EP, played guitar on the songs. All drums were by Dobbin. Marsh played bass on “Ohio,” while Hand covered the bottom end on “You Know” and “Connections,” as well as singing lead and playing synth on “Ohio” and “Connections.”
Threads’ three songs deal with themes of stagnation and self-destruction, toxic relationships and false friends, and the powerful potential in momentary interactions. It’s thoughtful and funny and has some really big emotional moments, as well as some riffs and synth parts that sound like an ’80s beer commercial in the best way possible.
RIDGLEA THEATER
Hand declined to elaborate on Marsh’s departure, but when he left, she moved from playing keyboards to bass. Benjamin was new to piano, but she took over the keyboard spot. She adapted and learned to play in a relatively short amount of time, but Hand felt like the band she started in 2017 was becoming something different.
“When [Marsh] left,” Hand said, “it started to feel like everything that had happened before 2021 didn’t matter. Or not as much.”
Here was a band that she’d started seven years ago and for which (at least until the past year or so) she’d written and recorded most of the lyrics, melodies, and arrangements, and now that band, due to a lot of unintentional personnel changes, was now her and Dobbin from the old days and Wellendorf and Benjamin, who were contributing new material.
“I was grateful for the amount of buy-in,” Hand said of Wellendorf’s and Benjamin’s roles. And she did want to move forward — or thought she did.
“There was talk of rebranding, like keep the same name, but …,” Hand paused again.
“I had all this history and heartache with this band. And what do I do with all that if we’re rebranding and going forward?”
As Hand described it, the new iteration of the band would be a co-fronted “Fleetwood Mac” approach, where she and Benjamin would both sing lead and everyone would contribute to new songs. As it happened, Benjamin wrote, sang lead, and played keys on Threads’ second song, “You Know,” and did the EP’s cover art. Hand said she liked the new music but that the de facto shelving of Big Heaven’s history bothered her.
Still, she and the rest of the band kept going. Benjamin wrote “You Know” in March, and the band recorded it in April
The older I get, the more important lyrics are to me. It’s nice when people can hear them.
But before they could release Threads, Dobbin, who had just gotten married and wanted to focus on some other media projects, made the decision to leave the band in May, though he stayed for the remaining shows Big Heaven had on their calendar.
“We had to make a decision,” Hand said. “Do we try to find a new drummer? I didn’t want to do that. Do we try to go with a stable of drummers to call on? I didn’t really want to do that, either.”
Ultimately, Hand, Wellendorf, and Benjamin thought their best course would be “to release Threads, dial down Big Heaven, and reform as a three-piece under a new name.”
They released Threads and played The Cicada on September 13. Unbeknownst to Hand, that would end up being Big Heaven’s final show.
Wellendorf and Benjamin had both decided to move on from the band altogether. They broke the news to Hand at a meeting on a Sunday at the Chat Room. I ran into Benjamin a couple of days after the goodbye post, and while she was disappointed the band was over, she said it was really hard trying to “reboot Big Heaven,” pointing out that Hand had had to do it several times already.
For Hand, the part of Big Heaven’s dissolution that hit her the hardest was that they didn’t get a formal farewell show. “Looking back on the decision, to post [the next day] about breaking up, I maybe should’ve waited a little bit, but at the same time, I didn’t have a chance to say at our show it was the last one. … I was afraid to let go when it initially happened because it was so sudden.”
Hand said she plans to return to openmics and solo shows. For now, the more intimate setting inherent to those types of performances is better suited to her music. “The older I get, the more important lyrics are to me. It’s nice when people can hear them.”
She mentioned collaborating with three other songwriters, as well. “We don’t have a name, but it’s with Sarah Savage, Lauren Hoffman, and Lisa Smith.”
Hand said they met at regular songwriting meetups organized by local singer-songwriter Simone Nicole.
“The broad genre is rock,” Hand said. “It’s been nice not being in charge of something, and I’m playing guitar instead of bass, which is fun. I haven’t played guitar in a band since Big Heaven started.” l
SAT 11/16 AMERICAN AQUARIUM SAT 11/30 VIENNA LIGHT ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS TUES 11/12 SNATAM KAUR
RIDGLEA ROOM
11/23
THE ANTHEMS TOUR
RIDGLEA LOUNGE
SAT 11/9 SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS FRI 11/8 BLACK SAND BAY DEAD STEREO, CLOUDVASE & MORE!
Big Heaven’s Mandy Hand: “I was afraid to let go when it initially happened because it was so sudden.”
It’s time for the 18th annual Lone Star Film Festival. From Friday thru Monday, you have the opportunity to see 59 films, 29 of which were filmed in Texas, in Fort Worth’s Cultural District. The Fort Worth Film Commission has created a distinction called Texas Made to recognize Texas filmmakers and highlight movies produced in the Lone Star State. Along with the narrative feature films, documentaries, and shorts that are part of the festival’s competition, you can also see a few out-of-competition movies, including the world premiere of Us Charos. This documentary follows U.S. teams as they compete in charrería (equestrian activities) and the challenges they face in reaching the National Charrería. It screens at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth (3200 Darnell St, Fort Worth, 817-7389215) 8pm Mon. Screening tickets are $10 per film at LoneStarFilmFestival.com. All-access weekend passes are on sale thru Thursday for $300 per person.
Speaking of “Texas Made,” have you noticed all the Billy Bob Thornton sightings around town lately? His band even played Billy Bob’s not too long ago. Well, that’s because Thornton has been here filming Landman. This upcoming drama series was created by Yellowstone director and Fort Worth native Taylor Sheridan along with Christian Wallace. Based on the podcast Boomtown hosted by Wallace, it’s set to premiere on Sun, Nov 17, on Paramount+, but if you already have a ticket, you’ll see Season 1, Episode 1 as part of the Lone Star Film Festival at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth (3200 Darnell St, Fort Worth, 817-738-9215) 5:30pm-7:30pm. For a chance to win a pair of tickets to this sold-out screening, email Marketing@FWWeekly.com with the subject of LANDMAN by midnight Friday. The winner will be notified via email on Saturday morning.
Besides Monday Night Football, what else is there to do on a random Monday? After the Buccaneers/Chiefs game, I have a movie suggestion for your consideration: Will & Harper
Streaming services are onto us and sharing logins is not an easy task these days for a
Us Charros screens at the Modern on Sunday as part of the Lone Star Film Festival.
cheapskate like me, but that’s OK. When my best friend Leigh is at my place, she catches up on her Hulu shows. Her place is where we Netflix and chill (in a hetero gal-pal kind of way). Last weekend, while I took advantage of her kick-ass washer and dryer, we decided to stream the documentary Will & Harper about SNL alums Will Ferrell and his best friend Andrew (dead name, former SNL writer), who recently transitioned from a man to her true self: a woman named Harper.
This poignant and funny film chronicling a cross-country road trip introducing Harper to people and places from Andrew’s past is a must-see for those interested in learning more about trans people. My only beef with it, pun intended, was their stop in Amarillo, where their presence was not appreciated. I don’t remember if Ferrell finished the giant steak or not, but, boy, did they get some flak from the rednecks at that place. They were also trolled mercilessly online after the visit. I’d hate for people to think that all of Texas is like that.
While the journey was specifically to places she’d been in the past, I wish they’d kept filming on the way home and showcased some other places in Texas that are LBGTQIA+ friendly. While we are part of the Bible Belt, North Texas is home to the largest and second-largest gay congregations in the nation: Cathedral of Hope in Dallas and Celebration Community Church in Fort Worth, respectively. I would also love to send Harper to Fort Worth’s first gender-neutral salon, Acute (954 W Rosedale St, Fort Worth, 817-405-4062), the local safe space that helps the trans community get a new look. Come back to Texas and let Fort Worth make you over, girl!
Vote. Please vote. Please vote like your life depends on it. Need a ride? Trinity Metro will offer free rides to voters on all local services today. Customers riding to or from the polls are eligible for free rides on Trinity Metro buses, Trinity Metro On-Demand rideshare services (including paratransit), and Trinity Metro TEXRail. Free rides also include Trinity Railway Express stations in Tarrant County, including CentrePort. Simply notify your driver or train conductor that you are traveling to/ from a voting location. Those leaning in the Democratic/progressive direction should also check out RideShare2Vote.com.
By Jennifer Bovee
CLASSIFIEDS
TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN AIR PERMIT (NORI) RENEWAL
PERMIT NUMBER 19156
APPLICATION. General Motors LLC, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 19156, which would authorize continued operation of the automobile manufacturing facility located at 2525 East Abram Street, Arlington, Tarrant County, Texas 76010. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/newsourcereview/ airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/ LocationMapper/?marker=-97.073611,32.738888&level=13. The existing facility is authorized to emit the following air contaminants: carbon monoxide, hazardous air pollutants, nitrogen oxides, organic compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less and sulfur dioxide.
This application was submitted to the TCEQ on October 2, 2024. The application will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, TCEQ Dallas/Fort Worth regional office, and the Arlington Public Library - George W. Hawkes Downtown Library, 100 South Center Street, Arlington, Tarrant County, Texas 76010 beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public review in the Dallas/Fort Worth regional office of the TCEQ.
The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application. In addition to the renewal, this permitting action includes the incorporation of permits by rule related to this permit. The reasons for any changes or incorporations, to the extent they are included in the renewed permit, may include the enhancement of operational control at the plant or enforceability of the permit. The TCEQ may act on this application without seeking further public comment or providing an opportunity for a contested case hearing if certain criteria are met.
PUBLIC COMMENT. You may submit public comments to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing a final decision on the application and the executive director will prepare a response to those comments. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the TCEQ’s jurisdiction to address in the permit process.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. You may request a contested case hearing if you are a person who may be affected by emissions of air contaminants from the facility. If requesting a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing;” (4) a specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request is made by a group or association, one or more members who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns.
The deadline to submit a request for a contested case hearing is 15 days after newspaper notice is published. If a request is timely filed, the deadline for requesting a contested case hearing will be extended to 30 days after mailing of the response to comments.
If any requests for a contested case hearing are timely filed, the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests for a contested case hearing to the Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. Unless the application is directly referred to a contested case hearing, the executive director will mail the response to comments along with notification of Commission meeting to everyone who submitted comments or is on the mailing list for this application. The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and law relating to relevant and material air quality concerns submitted during the comment period. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address in this proceeding.
MAILING LIST. In addition to submitting public comments, you may ask to be placed on a mailing list for this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. Those on the mailing list will receive copies of future public notices (if any) mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk for this application.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at 18006874040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from General Motors LLC, 2525 East Abram Street, Arlington, Texas 76010-1346 or by calling Ms. Jazzmyne Pearson, Senior Environmental Engineer at (817) 653-3578.
CLASSIFIED
BULLETIN BOARD
Top resources for everything. Okay, almost everything.
HAVE A LITTLE FAITH
CELEBRATION
COMMUNITY CHURCH
Located at 908 Pennsylvania Av (817-335-3222), CCC has services on Sundays at 10am. Want to check out a nonjudgmental, inclusive church at home before attending in person? All services can also be viewed on YouTube (@CelebrationCommunityChurch130).
POTTER’S HOUSE
Join the Potter’s House of Fort Worth (1270 Woodhaven Blvd, 817-446-1999) for Sunday Service at 8am and Wednesday Bible Study at 7pm. For more info, visit us online at www.TPHFW.org.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Dental Insurance
Physicians Mutual Insurance Company covers 350+ procedures. This is real dental insurance, not just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! Use code 6258 when you call 1-888-361-7095 or visit online at Dental50plus.com/FortWorth.
Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas
We’re not going anywhere. We know you may be feeling many things right now, but we are here with you and will not stop fighting for YOU. See six ways you can join the #BansOffOurBodies fight on FB @PPGreaterTX. For more info, go to PPGreaterTX.org.
HOME RESOURCES
GENERATORS
Prepare for power outages today with a home standby generator. There is no money down and low monthly payment options are available. Call 1-844-887-3143 for a FREE quote before the next power outage.
HVAC TUNE-UPS
American Residential Heating & Cooling. As temps outside start to climb, the season for savings is now. $49 cooling or heating system tune up. Save up to $2000 on a new heating and cooling system (restrictions apply.) FREE estimates. Many payment options available. Licensed and insured professionals.
Call 1-877-447-0546 today.
LEAF FILTER
Eliminate gutter cleaning forever with LeafFilter, the most advanced debrisblocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. Ask about 20% off the entire purchase. Plus, 10% senior and military discounts are available. Call 1-877-689-1687 today.
MIND / BODY / SPIRIT HANNA in HURST
Professional in-office massage. No outcalls. Call 817-590-2257 for your appointment. (MT#4797)
Higher Purpose
HP is the premiere and critically acclaimed store in DFW for all things spiritual and holistic. Get the scoop at HigherPurposeEmporium.com.
SERVICES DIRECTV
Get DIRECTV for $64.99/mo for 12 months with the CHOICE Package. Save an additional $120 over the first year. The first 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz, and Epix are included! Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Some restrictions apply. Call 1-855-966-0520.
EARTHLINK
Highspeed Internet Big Savings with Unlimited Data! Fiberoptic Technology up to 1gbps with a customizable plan. Call 855-767-0515 today!
NEXTHOME
Open the door to yours today! Call Sarah Niehoff, Realtor, at 817-714-7956 or visit SarahNiehoffPropertyLinkTX.com.
SUBMISSIONS
We’d Like To Hear From You!
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BEST BOOK SALE IN TEXAS!
Head to the JR Long Cultural Arts Center (425 Granbury St, Cleburne TX) the 4th weekend in November. Find 1000s of books at a deep discount 10am-8pm Fri-Sat, Nov 21-22 and 1pm-6pm Sun, Nov 23. For updates, visit The Published Page Bookshop Facebook page (@ BiblioTreasures).
COWTOWN ROVER
With our handy pick-up and drop-off services, having your car checked out could not be easier. www.CowtownRover.com 3958 Vickery | 817.731.3223
EMPLOYMENT
Lead Relay Field Technician in Fort Worth, Texas: Provide field service and technical assistance to customers in areas of acceptance testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting of low, medium, and high voltage systems, substation design including protection and control engineering, substation construction and commissioning, SCADA Integration-Automation equipment installation and testing and/or power distribution equipment. High School or GED Diploma, foreign equivalency degree accepted, plus 36 Months experience in the job or as Field Service Protection and Control and High Voltage Apparatus Commissioning Technician and Proficient in SCADA software. Duties require traveling to unanticipated clients’ worksites throughout continental United States on an average of every week from Monday morning to Thursday evening. Telecommuting on non-traveling days permitted. Send resume to Qualus LLC, Attn: Kelsey Veloz-Schinner, HR Manager, 100 Colonial Center Parkway, Suite 400, Lake Mary, Fl 32746 or email at careers@qualuscorp.com
NOW HIRING for NIGHT SHIFT
The Romance Store Apply in Person 6900 South Fwy #140, Fort Worth, TX 76134
EVANGELICALS FOR HARRIS
Faithful, compassionate evangelicals exercising our God-given citizenship by voting for someone who truly reflects Christian values. See more at: EvangelicalsForHarris.com
FLEA MARKET
4445 River Oaks Blvd
Every Sat & Sun 9a-5p
All your favorite vendors and friends will be there with Tino, Mo and Zelda!
The Gas Pipe, The GAS PIPE, THE GAS PIPE, your Peace Love & Smoke Headquarters since 4/20/1970! SCORE a FREE GIFT on YOUR Birthday, FREE Scale Tuning and Lighter Refills on GAS PIPE goods, FREE Layaway, and all the safe, helpful service you expect from a 51 Years Young Joint. Plus, SCORE A FREE CBD HOLIDAZE GIFT With-A-Buy thru 12/31! Be Safe, Party Clean, Keep On Truckin’. More at thegaspipe.net
HANNAH in HURST
Get out of the heat & feel better fast! Professional inoffice massage therapy (MT4797). No outcalls. 817-590-2257
HISTORIC RIDGLEA THEATER
THE RIDGLEA is three great venues within one historic Fort Worth landmark. RIDGLEA THEATER has been restored to its authentic allure, recovering unique Spanish-Mediterranean elements. It is ideal for large audiences and special events. RIDGLEA ROOM and RIDGLEA LOUNGE have been making some of their own history, as connected adjuncts to RIDGLEA THEATER, or hosting their own smaller shows and gatherings. More at theRidglea.com
I CAN FIX IT FOR YOU!
Handyman available for projects in Tarrant and Parker Counties. Household repairs, painting, yard work etc, I CAN HELP!
Providing honest, dependable work at a fair price! Call or Text today for a FREE estimate.
Chris 817-495-3017
WHAT’S YOUR STORY?
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