Denton Black Chamber of Commerce

07/20/2026

John Baines used his gift of song for 40 years in Denton, serving and supporting dozens of local nonprofits and community organizations in North Texas. He was a founding member of the Denton Black Chamber of Commerce and the Denton Blues Festival. He died July 13 at age 73.

07/20/2026

Well done Sir, well done.

07/17/2026

With heavy hearts the Denton Black Chamber of Commerce mourns the passing of one of our original founders, Mr. John Baines.

John wasn't simply a founding member of our Chamber—he was one of the men who helped build its foundation more than three decades ago. As Past Chairman, mentor, CPA, business leader, and community advocate, he dedicated countless hours to cultivating relationships, creating opportunities, and ensuring the voices of minority-owned businesses were heard throughout Denton County. His leadership extended far beyond our Chamber, serving organizations across Denton and helping shape the economic and civic future of our community.

But those titles only tell part of his story.
Anyone who had the privilege of knowing John knew that he rarely entered a room without a smile, a kind word, a song on his heart, or an encouraging spirit. He had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcomed, valued, and inspired. His positivity was contagious, and his wisdom was freely shared with anyone willing to learn.

John was also instrumental in helping establish traditions that continue to unite our community today, including the Denton Blues Festival—a celebration of music, culture, and togetherness that has become a cherished Denton tradition.
For many of us, this isn't just the loss of a community leader. It is the loss of a friend. A mentor. A teacher. A servant leader. A man whose legacy will continue to echo through every life he touched.

John showed us that leadership isn't about titles—it's about service. It's about lifting others while expecting nothing in return. His fingerprints will forever remain on the Denton Black Chamber of Commerce, and we are better because he chose to pour into this organization and this community.

On behalf of our Board of Directors and members, we extend our deepest condolences to the Baines family and to everyone blessed enough to call John a friend.

Thank you JB, for your vision. Thank you for your leadership. Thank you for your friendship. Thank you for always bringing joy—and often a song—with you wherever you went. Your work here is complete, but your legacy will live on in Denton for generations to come.

Rest in Heaven, our brother, JB



"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23

07/07/2026

🎉🎂 Happy Birthday to Our President, Kerry Goree! 🎂🎉

Today, the Denton Black Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrates an exceptional leader, mentor, and friend—Kerry Goree.

Your unwavering dedication, steady leadership, and passion for serving our business community have helped strengthen our Chamber and inspired countless entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders throughout Denton. Your vision continues to open doors, create opportunities, and remind us all that leadership is measured by service.

On your special day, we want you to know how much you are appreciated. Thank you for the countless hours, the wisdom you share, and the heart you pour into making our Chamber and our community stronger.

We wish you a year filled with continued success, abundant blessings, good health, and countless reasons to celebrate. May this next chapter be your best yet!

Please join us in wishing our President, Kerry Goree, a very Happy Birthday! 🎉🎈🎁
Happy Birthday, Kerry!

We appreciate you today and every day.

— Denton Black Chamber of Commerce 🖤💛💚

02/17/2026

🎓✨ Join Us for the 4th Annual Denton HBCU Fair! ✨🎓

The 4th Annual Denton HBCU Fair is back and bigger than ever! This is an incredible opportunity for students and families to connect directly with representatives from Historically Black Colleges & Universities from across the country.

📚 On-the-spot admissions opportunities
💰 Scholarship information
🤝 Networking with HBCU reps & alumni
🚀 Pathways to excellence, leadership, and legacy

Whether you're a student planning your future or a parent supporting the journey, this event is one you don’t want to miss.

Let’s continue building bridges to higher education and keeping the HBCU legacy strong right here in Denton!

01/15/2026

Come out and support!! Get a chance to see the new Quakertown Movie. History in the making.

The returns in TWO WEEKS!

We’re excited and honored to support the Denton Black Film Festival, returning January 28–February 1 with the powerful theme Hope & Courage.

DBFF celebrates Black culture. stories, and voices, from around the world—and brings meaningful conversations and cultural experiences to our community.

In person: Jan 28–Feb 1
Virtual screenings extend through Feb 8
Learn more: www.dentonbff.com/film-festival
Join us in experiencing culture, creativity, and connection.

01/15/2026

MLK Jr. Celbration!!!!

MLK Day commemorates the birthday of American civil rights leader Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and celebrates his life, achievements, and legacy. Locally, we’ll come together in honor of The theme: Mentoring The Dream through activities such as a flag football tournament, community march, ...

01/15/2026

Back for year 26!!! Harold Jackson host the Annual MLK Day Flag Football Game.

Road Construction The Denton County roads that’ll be better in 2026 — and the ones where construction will continue Denton County interstate and inner-city roads construction projects are set for completion in 2026. This includes parts of Bonnie Brae Street in Denton, sidewalks on East McKinney ...

11/16/2025

The Denton Black Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Charisma City at 5101 E University Drive Denton, TX 76208 for a community Turkey Drive this holiday season. We’re here to show love, give back, and make sure our community feels supported.

Maybe you don’t need a turkey, but would like to donate one—or even two. Donations will be accepted through Friday, 11/21 at 4 PM.

Turkey distribution will take place:
Saturday, 11/22 from 12–4 PM
Sunday, 11/23 from 12:30–4:30 PM

For more information, please contact Lee Scurry - 682.387.2233

Let’s pour back into our community together.

11/11/2025

Today, on Veterans Day, we pause to honor and celebrate the extraordinary service and sacrifice of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces — our veterans — and especially the veterans within our community here in Denton County.

Our national observance on November 11 began as Armistice Day, commemorating the cessation of hostilities in World War I at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.
In 1938, November 11 was established as a federal holiday to honor the service of World War I veterans.
After World War II and the Korean War, Congress amended the holiday in 1954, renaming it Veterans Day to honor all American veterans — living and deceased — from all wars.
Veterans Day is distinct from Memorial Day: while Memorial Day honors those who died in service, Veterans Day honors all who have served.

In Denton County, the Denton County Veterans Service Office stands ready to assist veterans and their dependents with claims for benefits, education, burial support, and more. Its mission is simple but powerful: “Serving Denton County Veterans with an attitude of gratitude.”

Our community’s legacy of service is rich. One local reflection noted:

> “Denton’s legacy includes many who volunteered … After the announcement of the end of WWI in 1919, Denton celebrations included a parade around the downtown Square — and a few maniac soldiers riding a TANK around the Square!”
That, of course, was well before my time here — but it speaks to the spirit of celebration and pride that still runs deep in our community.

The Texas Veterans Hall of Fame, located here in Denton, highlights the service of Texans who have served honorably in the military and continued to contribute to their communities.

To the veterans who are members of our Chamber — your courage, dedication, and service to our nation and community are deeply appreciated. Today, we honor:
• Those who served in times of war, peacekeeping, and national emergencies.
• Those who returned home and continued to build, mentor, and lead in our community.
• Those who are no longer with us — we remember your legacy and the freedoms you defended.

On behalf of the Denton Black Chamber of Commerce, we extend our deepest thanks to you — our veteran members and your families. Your willingness to serve has safeguarded the freedoms we enjoy, and your continued contributions strengthen our community. Today — and every day — we recognize your sacrifice and honor your service.

Going forward, we encourage everyone in our network to:
• Reach out and thank a veteran you know.
• Attend local veterans’ service events or volunteer in veterans’ programs.
• Consider how our businesses and communities can continue supporting veterans’ transitions into civilian and entrepreneurial life.

Thank you for your service. We stand with you in respect, support, and appreciation.

With gratitude and respect,
Lee R. Scurry Sr.
Chairman, Denton Black Chamber of Commerce