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Word from the CVBs

Fort Worth Festivals Celebrate Cowboys and Culture
By David A. DuBois, President and CEO, Fort Worth Convention & Visitors Bureau

Fort Worth celebrates its distinctive mix of “Cowboys and Culture” this April with two of the most unique festivals in the United States – MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival and the Texas Frontier Forts Muster. The 22nd annual MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival takes place April 19-22. The event attracts tens of thousands of people annually during the four-day visual arts, entertainment and cultural event. It showcases a nationally recognized fine art and fine craft juried art fair, savory food, live concerts, performance artists and street performers on the streets of downtown Fort Worth, stretching nine blocks on Main Street from the Tarrant County Courthouse to the Fort Worth Convention Center. The Harris List’s just released 2006 rankings once again named MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival the #1 Fine Art and Fine Craft Fair in Texas, as well as #5 in the Midwest and #9 in the country! For an entertaining and historic look at frontier life in Texas, join us for the Texas Frontier Forts Muster on April 27-28 in the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards. Learn about the many forts along the Texas Frontier Forts Trail circa 1845-1890. Experience the sights and sounds of this important era in Texas History; especially since this year Forts Concho, Griffin and Richardson are celebrating their 140th anniversaries of existence. Explore Fort Worth’s beginning as a frontier fort in 1849 at the site where the Tarrant County Courthouse stands today. The event also features re-enactors from many of the historic fort sites, with their colorful uniforms, military gear, tents, wagons, and flags. The early Indian heritage of Texas Frontiers is also highlighted, adding even more authenticity and excitement.

Other activities include the artillery demonstrations, period music and a Cowboy Mounted Shooting Competition, where participants show off their shooting skills while riding. The Forts Muster is free to the public and is a wonderful weekend of history and Western lore for enthusiasts and families alike.

In addition, Fort Worth hosts the exciting NASCAR races at Texas Motor Speedway April 13-15. To learn more about these events and other attractions, log on to www.fortworth.com, call 800-433-5747 or stop by one of our Visitor Information Centers.

April FUN in FUN CENTRAL!
By Diane Brandon, Vice President Communications, Marketing & Research,
Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau

Take a swing at FUN in FUN CENTRAL"! Arlington, Texas during April. The Texas Rangers take the field on April 6 against the Boston Red Sox. Expect lots of excitement, homeruns and hot dogs as new manager Ron Washington leads the Rangers as they begin their chase for the 2007 pennant. Call 817-273-5100 for ticket information.

Swing by Six Flags Over Texas for two special events this April. Don’t miss your chance to see some of the most exciting and uplifting bands in concerts of praise April 6 and 7. Reliant K will be performing on April 6. Casting Crowns and the Afters will be the featured guests on April 7. Tickets are $8 plus park admission. For two weekends this spring, Six Flags Over Texas celebrates the rich heritage and colorful pageantry of the Latino culture. April 14 and 15 and April 21 and 22, live entertainment, delicious Mexican food and an open-air Mercado will delight families and highlight the richness and contributions of Latino culture. For more information on these events, visit www.sixflags.com.

FUN CENTRAL vacation packages are now available. Our packages are a great value and have terrific add-on options. To purchase your FUNtastic Family Package today, visit www.arlington.org and click on the green box in the upper right hand corner or call 1-866-656-FUNN (3866).

Grapevine’s Annual Blessing of the Vines & Wines
By Paul Corliss, Media Relations Manager, Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau

For 14 years, Grapevine residents and visitors alike have been enchanted by the pomp and circumstance that comes with the age-old ceremonial blessing of the vines and wines as part of the annual celebration that most locals refer to as “New Vintage.”

The celebration of new release Grapevine wines begins at 7 p.m. April 13, when the Jazz Wine Train departs the Historic 1888 Cotton Belt Depot from 705 S. Main Street in Grapevine. This event is already sold-out for 2007. Saturday, April 14, hundreds of wine enthusiasts will gather at Delaney Vineyards at 2000 Champagne Blvd. at 11 a.m., to take part in the Blessing of the Vines, a centuries-old European ceremony to ensure robust vines and savory grapes.

The Wine & Gallery Trail begins at noon April 14, and goes until 6 p.m. This will be the first New Vintage event for the recent addition to Grapevine’s winery family, Lone Star Wine Cellars. They will be joined by Cross Timbers Winery, Delaney Vineyards, D’Vine Wine, Homestead Winery & Tasting Room, La Bodega Winery & Tasting Room, La Buena Vida Vineyards, and Su Vino Winery. Tickets are $9 per person; full trail is $52 per person.

Joining the wineries on the trail for New Vintage this year is Grapevine’s community of art galleries and artists. Each participating Grapevine art gallery will have its own stop along the shuttle route guests take to wineries on April 14.

Another tradition in the community over the years is its Designated Driver Program. In addition, for the convenience of residents and guests alike complimentary shuttle buses are provided throughout the Wine & Gallery Trail. For tickets to the Blessing of the Vines and New Vintage Wine & Gallery Trail, or for more information, please visit GrapevineTexasUSA.com or call 817-410-3185.

GRAND PRAIRIE APRIL 2007 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
By Cheri Pattillo, Public Information Officer,
Grand Prairie Convention & Visitors Bureau

April 1-30 Simulcast Racing, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Simulcast racing is available seven days a week in the Post Time Pavilion, the Las Vegas-style racebook and sportsbar. Smoke-free simulcast available on Saturdays and Sundays on the second level of the Grand Stand. (Call for exact dates) Admission fee. Call 972.263.7223.

April 1-30 Annual Crappie Marathon, Grand Prairie. An entry fee of $10 must be paid before you begin fishing but is good for the whole marathon. All fish must be caught at Joe Pool Lake, and the live fish weighed in at the Marina. Prizes are awarded per day, per week and per month for the largest fish caught. Call 817.640.4200.

April 1 Cedric “The Entertainer,” NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie. For tickets, call 214.373.8000 or 972.647.5700 or www.Ticketmaster.com. For information visit www.NOKIAtheatreDFW.com.

April 4-8 My Little Pony, NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie. For tickets, call 214.373.8000 or 972.647.5700 or www.Ticketmaster.com. For information visit www.NOKIAtheatreDFW.com.

April 6 Concert in the Park, Grand Prairie. Free concert series featuring “Mood Swings Big Band,” beginning at 7 p.m. for the entire family at Turner Park Gazebo. Call Grand Prairie Arts Council at 972.642.2787 or 972.237.8100.

April 7 Eggstravaganza Traveling Easter Egg Hunt, Grand Prairie. The City of Grand Prairie will host a traveling Easter Egg Hunt at Bowles Park – 9 a.m., Waggoner Park – 10 a.m., Tyre Park – 11 a.m., McFalls Park - noon, Mountain Creek Soccer Complex – 1 p.m. and Freedom Park – 2 p.m. Call 972.237.8100.

April 7, 21, 28 Blooms of Spring Wildflower Walk, Cedar Hill State Park. Enjoy a leisurely walk and hear about the wildflowers of the native prairie grasslands and the stories behind them. Bring insect repellent. To confirm, call 972.291.3900, ext. 232.

April 12-July 29 Premier Thoroughbred Season, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Experience world-class live Thoroughbred horse racing at Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Thursday through Sunday. Thurs. - Fri. first race at 6:35 p.m. Sat. & Sun. first race at 1:35 p.m. Simulcast racing continues year-round at the Post Time Pavilion.

Post Time Pavilion Hours: 10:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Post Time Pavilion Prices (non-live racing days): Admission - $2, General Parking - $2. Valet Parking - $4.

Lone Star Park prices (live racing days): General Admission - $3, General Parking - $2. Valet Parking - $7.

Call: 972.263.7223 Fax 972.262.5622

April 12 Premiere Stakes, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Eleventh running of Texas-bred three-year-olds racing a distance of one mile for a $50,000 purse. Call 972.263.7223.

April 13 The O’ Jay’s, NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie. For tickets, call 214.373.8000 or 972.647.5700 or www.Ticketmaster.com. For information visit www.NOKIAtheatreDFW.com.

April 13 Concert in the Park, Grand Prairie. Free concert series featuring “Inner City All Stars,” beginning at 7 p.m. for the entire family at Turner Park Gazebo. Call Grand Prairie Arts Council at 972.642.2787 or 972.237.8100.

April 13 Foreigner, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Lone Star Park features Foreigner after the final live race on opening weekend. General admission tickets, $3, are available before 9:00 p.m. After 9 p.m. they increase to $15. Call 972.263.7223 or lonestarpark.com.

April 14 Robert Earl Keen, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Lone Star Park features Robert Earl Keen following the final live race on opening weekend. General admission tickets, $3, are available before 5:00 p.m. After 5 p.m. they increase to $15. Call 972.263.7223 or lonestarpark.com.

April 14 32nd Annual Prairie Dog Chili Cookoff & World Championship Pickled Quail Egg Eating Contest, Traders Village, Grand Prairie. Traders Village hosts this cookoff that features showmanship, entertainment, fun, food and festivities for the whole family to have a “spicy” good time. Times: 8 a.m. to dusk. Cost: $2 parking fee. Call 972.647.2331.

April 14 Citywide Garage Sale, Grand Prairie. 7 a.m.-2 p.m., Bowles Life Center, Dalworth Recreation Center, Charley Taylor Recreation Center, Senior Center, 972-237-8100.

April 14 6th Annual Cedar Hill Expo, Cedar Hill State Park. Enjoy a fun filled day participating in reptile and mammal programs, bass casting for kids, a wildflower walk, archery and kayaking. Game Wardens available throughout the day to answer questions. To confirm program, call 972.291.39000, ext. 232.

April 15 Family Fun Day, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Activities include bounce houses, pony rides, a petting zoo and free passes to Six Flags Over Texas to the first 500 kids age 12 and under. Call 972.263.7223.

April 15, 22 & 29 Senior Citizens’ Day, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Seniors 62 and better receive free general admission at the Grandstand on Sundays during live racing. Call 972.263.7223.

April 17 Mannheim Steamroller, NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie. For tickets, call 214.373.8000 or 972.647.5700 or www.Ticketmaster.com. For information visit www.NOKIAtheatreDFW.com.

April 19 Diana Ross, NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie. For tickets, call 214.373.8000 or 972.647.5700 or www.Ticketmaster.com. For information visit www.NOKIAtheatreDFW.com.

April 20 Latin Kings of Comedy, NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie. For tickets, call 214.373.8000 or 972.647.5700 or www.Ticketmaster.com. For information visit www.NOKIAtheatreDFW.com.

April 20 Concert in the Park, Grand Prairie. Free concert series featuring “The Fugitives,” beginning at 7 p.m. for the entire family at Turner Park Gazebo. Call Grand Prairie Arts Council at 972.642.2787 or 972.237.8100.

April 21 Aretha Franklin, NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie. For tickets, call 214.373.8000 or 972.647.5700 or www.Ticketmaster.com. For information visit www.NOKIAtheatreDFW.com.

April 21 JEH Stallion Station Stakes, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Texas-bred fillies and mares will race a distance of 6 furlongs for a purse of $50,000. Special giveaway commemorating Lone Star Park’s 10th anniversary is a Hall of Fame t-shirt. Call 972.263.7223.

April 20 & 27 Party at the Park, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Enjoy imported beer drink specials from 7 to 11 on Friday nights plus great live music on the Heineken Stage. Contact 972.263.7223.

April 27 Concert in the Park, Grand Prairie. Free concert series beginning at 7 p.m. for the entire family at Turner Park Gazebo. Call Grand Prairie Arts Council at 972.642.2787 or 972.237.8100.

April 28 Arbor Day Salute, Grand Prairie. Free food, entertainment and trees noon-3 p.m., link trail between Waggoner Park, 2122 N. Carrier Pkwy. and Mike Lewis Park, 2600 Block of N. Carrier Pkwy. Call 972-237-8100.

April 28 Texas Mile (Gr. III) and Grand Prairie Turf Challenge, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie, Grand Prairie. Texas Mile is the $300,000 featured race of one mile for older horses. Grand Prairie Turf Challenge is a $60,000 one mile (turf) race for three-year-olds. Richland Hills Stakes is a $50,000 six furlong race for three-year olds. Call 972-263-RACE.

April 28 Dollar Day Returns to Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Enjoy $1 general parking, general admission, beginner's programs, hot dogs, popcorn, soft drinks and draft beer during live racing. Call 972.263.7223.

April 28 Irving Distaff, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie. Eleventh running of older fillies, mares race 7 furlongs on turf for a $60,000 purse. Call 972.263.7223.

April 28 Health Fair, Traders Village, Grand Prairie. Open weekends 8 a.m. to dusk. Cost: $2 parking fee. Call 972.647.2331.

April 28 Penn Farm Tour, Cedar Hill Park, Grand Prairie. Take a tour of the historical Penn Farm and learn what life on the farm was like from the 1850s to the 1950s. Call 972.291.3900 x 232.

April 28-29 Thomas & Friends Live, NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie. For tickets, call 214.373.8000 or 972.647.5700 or www.Ticketmaster.com. For information visit www.NOKIAtheatreDFW.com.

Please note: All dates, times and events are subject to change.

“Flat Stanley” Gets Away to Granbury
By Carolyn Kagy, Marketing Manager, Granbury Convention & Visitors Bureau

Recently the Granbury Visitor Center received “Flat Stanley” from a young student in San Saba, Texas. Those of you with children are probably familiar with this fabled young boy who when flattened by a bulletin board was mailed to California for a visit. This week he experienced and learned many things in Granbury, Texas. Here are a just few of them.

Stanley first stopped by the Granbury Opera House. He learned the theater was built in 1886 and after being abandoned for many years, was completely restored to its original condition in 1975. Stanley was treated to a live performance of the popular Will Rogers A Season of Miracles, showing through April 7. The rest of the 2007 season line up makes Stanley want to return with his family.

Stanley was very impressed as he left the Opera House to see the beautiful Hood County Courthouse across the street. Stanley finds that the courthouse was built in 1891 and the Seth Thomas town clock was wound for forty years by one man. The entire downtown square is listed on the National Register for Historic Places and readers of Texas Highways Magazine voted Granbury as “The Best Town Square in Texas.”

Next month Stanley’s adventure continues. Where will he go next? Granbury Live, Granbury Riverboat, Warm Country Heart and more are on Stanley’s schedule.

For information about all that Granbury has to offer, please call the Granbury Convention & Visitors Bureau at 1-800-950-2212 or log on to www.granburytx.com.

Barnard’s Mill Art Museum in Glen Rose
By Billy Huckaby, Director, Glen Rose Convention & Visitors Bureau

Barnard’s Mill Art Museum has been one of the better-kept secrets in Glen Rose, but the Somervell History Foundation is working to change that. The museum is a part of Historic Barnard’s Mill, the first permanent structure in Glen Rose, built in 1860.

The art museum features the works of a number of prominent artists including Amy Miears Jackson, Robert Summers, Jack Bryant and Morris Henry Hobbs, to name a few. There is an assortment of art works from western to oriental along with a collection of Indian artifacts.

Both Barnard’s Mill Art Museum and Barnard’s Mill are open to the public on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tours and other visits can be booked by appointment.

Barnard’s Mill was originally a gristmill and trading post, constructed by Charles Barnard, an early Somervell County pioneer and business partner of Sam Houston. Their company established trading posts in several locations along the Brazos River. The mill stands majestically on the banks of the Paluxy River near downtown Glen Rose.

Over the years, the mill has served a number of functions including trading post, cotton gin, hospital and private residence. The structure is on the State Registry of Historical Places and the National Registry of Historic Buildings.

Built of native stone the mill has stood for almost 150 years and is in remarkable condition. It features three-foot thick walls and is a classic example of the architecture of the time. Hand-hewn beams from East Texas were used in the construction and are still solid today. Barnard’s Art Museum is owned by the Jewell Miears Fielder Foundation and Barnard’s Mill is owned by the Somervell History Foundation. The mill was generously given to the foundation by Richard H. Moore, Jr., who lived in it for a number of years. A noted collector, many of Mr. Moore’s antiques are on display.

For more information on Glen Rose and the surrounding area, contact the Glen Rose Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1-888-346-6282 or check out their website at www.glenrosetexas.net. Come see why Glen Rose was named America’s Dream Town in 2004.

The world-renown McCoy Tyner Trio headlines for Denton Arts & Jazz Festival, Friday, April 27, 2007.
By Kim Phillips, Vice President, Denton Convention & Visitor Bureau

Jazz up your schedule on April 27-29, 2007 by attending the annual Denton Arts & Jazz Festival in Denton, Texas. Great music, good food, beautiful art and many activities are planned for the whole family in Denton, Texas, where FUN IS THE THING and JAZZ IS KING! Quakertown Park's twenty beautiful, sprawling acres in the heart of downtown Denton provide the perfect setting for the 2 - day event that is free to the public. The Denton Festival Foundation, Inc., in cooperation with the City of Denton and the Dallas/Fort Worth American Federation of Musicians, produces the festival with support from individual and corporate sponsorships. Over 2,200 musicians, artists and performers attract over 200,000 annually to enjoy the culturally diverse music and art.

Headliners include internationally renowned McCoy Tyner Trio on Friday night, Susan Tedeschi followed by Stephen Bruton on Saturday night, and Denton's own grammy-award winners Brave Combo on Sunday night.

Move to the beat at one of 6 stages with jazz, blues and cross cultural music. Get in the groove and buy a special piece of art from 160 juried artists and crafters. The 12 and under set can mold, draw, sculpt and create at the Children's Art Tent. Treat yourself to delicious offerings at one of 5 food courts and don't miss the games and activities for the young and young at heart. Get inspired with festival rhythms around every corner.

Come visit the music capital of North Texas. Join in the pride and celebration of our music and arts tradition, all showcased for a weekend of enjoyment for the whole family at the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival. (Funded in part by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts)


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