Your Parker County 2011

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FREE 2011-2012

Pa r k e r C o u n t y

An Information Guide • Aledo • The Annettas • Brock • Hudson Oaks • Millsap • Peaster • Poolville • Springtown • Weatherford • Willow Park

Published by:

THE COMMUNITY NEWS www.community-news.com Copyright 2011-2012 The Community News P.O. Box 1031 • Aledo, TX 76008 817-441-7661 • Toll-free 1-877-441-7661

2 2011-2012

Your Parker County

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The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

3

A note from the Publisher

Your Parker County www.community-news.com

While I’m not exactly an old-timer, I have lived in Parker County almost 18 years, and have come to treasure the friendships that have developed in those years.

P.O. Box 1031, Aledo, TX 76008

I believe our community has some of the most hard-working, committed, funloving, dedicated people on the planet!

I invite you to get to know some of them in the pages of this guide.

Physical Address: 203 Pecan Dr. Aledo, TX 76008

Randy Keck

Office: 817-441-7661

rkeck@community-news.com

Fax: 817-441-5419 AFFILIATIONS The Community News is a member of the Texas Press Association, the North and East Texas Press Association, the West Texas Press Association, the East Parker County Chamber of Commerce and the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce

About our Cover Railroads have played a major factor in the historical development of Parker County. Photographer Christopher Amos found this junction in Millsap.

Welcome to the fifth annual edition of Your Parker County!

Sometimes publications of this type are called “Newcomers’ Guides” or “Visitors’ Guides.”

We call it an “Information Guide,” because our purpose from the first issue we published in 2006 was to provide everyone a valuable resource to Parker County, whether you are a visitor, a newcomer, or a long-time resident.

Our county is fortunate to have a strong economy, great schools and abundant natural resources.

But above all else, Parker County is fortunate to have great people, and you will have a chance to meet some of them in these pages.

Join us for the next Ride for Heroes www.rideforheroes.org

I also invite you to check out our on-line resources, especially our community calendar. It can get you up-to-date in a hurry.

The calendar can be found at www.community-news.com/calendar.

An electronic version of this guide can be found at www.community-news. com/ypc.

Finally, a few words about The Community News.

We publish the weekly newspaper that provides information about Aledo, the Annettas, Hudson Oaks, Willow Park and Parker County events.

Our goal has always been to provide our readers with the best newspaper possible. In the process, we are happy to say The Community News has been recognized with numerous awards for excellence at the state and national level.

Whether you live in our coverage area or not, feel free to check us out. If you are not a subscriber or regular reader, you can get a sneak peek of the latest issue at – you guessed it – www.community-news.com.

We are proud to be Parker County’s only locally-owned newspaper. You can call, e-mail, reach us through the Web site, find us on Facebook or check us out on Twitter.

Our welcome mat is always out, and we enjoy hearing from you, so stop by some for a visit. In the mean time, enjoy Your Parker County.

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Your Parker County

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Table of Contents City Glimpses: Aledo ........................................ 5 The Annettas ...........................6 Brock ......................................... 7 Hudson Oaks............................8 Millsap ......................................9 Peaster ..................................... 10 Poolville....................................11 Springtown ............................. 12 Weatherford ........................... 13 Willow Park ............................ 15

Springtown ISD .....................28 Weatherford ISD ...................29 Private Schools ....................... 31 Child Care/Preschools .......... 31 Weatherford College .............33 High School Sports...................37 Housing ........................................39 Churches ...................................... 41 Social Services ..........................44

County Government ................. 16 Emergency Services ................. 19 Education Aledo ISD ...............................25 Brock ISD ...............................26 Millsap ISD ............................26 Peaster ISD .............................27 Poolville ISD...........................27

Senior Services..........................50 Chambers of Commerce .........52

FEATURES

Quality of Life ............................53

Spring Creek Musical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Dining ........................................... 61

Parker Paws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Hometown Hero Casey James . . . . . . . . .34

Traditions.....................................64

Careity Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Festivals/Events ........................65

Prioritizing Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Mary Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

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Your Parker County

2011-2012

5

IMPROVING INFRASTRUCTURE Aledo

By Christine A. Hurd The Community News

While other cities have been forced to reevaluate infrastructure development because of the recession, Aledo will be starting three major projects in accordance with their city plan: constructing a new wastewater treatment plant, building a pipeline to be connected to Fort Worth surface water, and widening FM 1187. Mayor Kit Marshall believes that infrastructure is one of the most important things the city can invest in at this point in its development.

“This past year has seen some great accomplishments. We’ve implemented our street rehab program which repairs the streets that need help the most in our city. It’s not only these new projects that we have to pay attention to, but also what we have,” Marshall said.

Even though the new infrastructure projects will each cost millions of dollars, the city of Aledo has managed to slash its budget for the third year in a row. However, the cost is felt elsewhere.

“It’s true, because of the economy, we can’t give everything that other [institutions] like the fire department and the library request.” Marshall said, “…however, we have an amazing city staff. In our last audit, one thing that was mentioned was that we have great management of our finite resources.

We have cut our budget, but we’re still able to do the larger infrastructure projects.”

However, while Aledo has managed to budget these large-scale projects, Marshall highlighted some concerns over future growth.

“We’ve never had excessive funds, and we’re doing all we can with what resources we have, but we’re a growing city and a growing city needs more people to help it run efficiently.”

On attracting businesses to move to Aledo, the situation is a bit different from other cities in Parker County.

“The good news is that all of our space for businesses is filled at this moment. We’re a business-friendly city, and we hope that the infrastructure programs will allow more to come in, but that is in the hands of the developers.” Marshall said. An emphasis on business was heavily mentioned in the city’s Strategic Plan, with an eventual goal of sales tax revenue equaling ad valorem tax revenue.

On the expenses side, City Administrator Ken Pfeifer stressed that the staff runs cost-effectively and attributes Aledo’s financial stability to its managerial ability.

“We could have a problem along our path to growth…but Aledo has accomplished more in three years than other neighboring cities could have accomplished in ten. It’s because of effective management that we’re having success with our Strategic Plan.”

In addition to infrastructure development, the city has also embarked upon its new branding and marketing campaign, designed in order to bring business and community together.

“First Fridays were a success. We heard a lot of good things from the community and from the businesses. Of course, we would like the community to come out even more, but it was a good program on the whole,” Marshall said.

Planned for the rest of 2011 were a fireworks extravaganza that had to be postponed when Independence Day came with a burn ban, and the 12th annual Christmas Tyme in Aledo celebration.

“I’m pleased with what our staff has accomplished,” Marshall said. “We have a bright future, great opportunities, economic development, new subdivisions, and more on the horizon.”

TOP PHOTO: Jennie Suchocki sings during one of Aledo’s popular “First Friday events held during the summer. | BOTTOM: Workers lay asphalt in Aledo’s street rehab program.

Aledo City Information Population: 2,730 Phone Number: 817-441-7016 City Council: Mayor Kit Marshall, Mayor Pro Tem Bill McLeRoy, Council Members Kerby Smith, Jean Bailey, Randy Watkins, Matt Casey City Administrator: Ken Pfeifer City Secretary: Kathleen Wedell Monthly Council Meeting: Fourth Thursday, 7 p.m. at the Aledo Community Center City Web site: www.aledo-texas.com

6 2011-2012

Your Parker County

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NO HURRY The Annettas

By Lana Kennedy The Community News

Nestled between the ever-growing city of Aledo and the hustle and bustle of Willow Park is a small community of three towns that are in no hurry to grow.

Annetta, Annetta North and Annetta South, also known simply as “the Annettas” were incorporated into three separate entities in 1979 in an effort to protect the area from being swallowed up by Fort Worth.

Although the area has grown significantly since then, the three towns have strived to maintain a rural setting with large home sites and beautiful natural scenery.

With developers knocking on their doors, the Annettas have worked diligently the past year in preparing Comprehensive City Plans to control future growth with designated areas for special zoning and smaller home sites.

Annetta South headed up this venture by hiring an outside firm to compose their city plan, which was

finished this year, while Annetta North and Annetta continue to work independently.

Also notable this year is the role of the three Annettas in securing a joint contract for waste services in the area. The Annettas, along with Hudson Oaks, Willow Park and Aledo worked together and negotiated lower rates for most of their residents as well as the addition of an optional low-cost recycling program. The North Central Texas Council of Governments awarded the six cities with the 2011 Regional Cooperation Award for their demonstration of the concept of regionalism.

One thing that remains constant in the Annettas is the passion of residents and their councils to maintain the peaceful quality of life that so many move to the area in search of. If you are looking for the advantages of true country living with the convenience of a nearby city, the Annettas could be your perfect fit.

ABOVE: Daina Lawler tends to business for Annetta and Annetta South from the Anneta City Hall building. | LEFT: A horse uses a low-hanging branch as a back scratcher at a local ranch.

- CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Annetta City Information

Annetta North City Information

Annetta South City Information

Population: 1,290

Population: 467

Population: 555

Phone Number: 817-441-5770

Phone Number: 817-441-2663

Phone Number: 817-441-6914

City Council: Mayor Bruce Pinckard, Mayor Pro Tem Bill Lunsford, Benny Evans, Chuck Sheridan, Jamie Harris, Farrar Patterson

City Council: Mayor Rob Watson, Mayor Pro Tem Len Callaway, Mike Brasovan, Kristin Jenkins, Stonie Hamilton, Ken Hall

City Council: Mayor Gerhard Kleinschmidt, Mayor Pro Tem Bill Gordon, Council Members Jim Ablovich, Philip Kuntz, David Gooslby, Jimmy Harwell

City Secretary: Daina Lawler

City Secretary: Barb Wise

Assistant to the Mayor: Daina Lawler

Monthly Council Meeting: Third Thursday, 7 p.m. at Annetta City Hall, 1200 Old Annetta Road, Annetta, Texas 76008

Monthly Council Meeting: Second Tuesday, 7 p.m. at Annetta United Methodist Church, 2836 West Farm Road 5, Aledo, Texas 76008

City Meeting Place: Annetta City Hall, 1200 Old Annetta Road, Aledo, Texas 76008

City Web site: www.annetta.org

City Web site: www.annettanorth.com

Monthly Council Meeting: Second Thursday, 7 p.m. at Annetta City Hall

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

LAID BACK AND SIMPLE

By Katie Martinez The Community News

Located in the rolling hills of Southwestern Parker County, Brock is an unincorporated community of mostly farms and ranches.

The area was named for John Henry Brock, who settled there in 1871. The area was most heavily populated around 1900, when some 200 residents called the area home. The population dropped after the 1940s down to a low of just 25 residents, and since the ‘80s and ‘90s it has hovered around 100.

Brock is well known for its school district, which has received an exemplary rating from the state for the last two years. The district has also been awarded the Texas Lone Star Cup for class 2A schools twice, an indicator of flourishing academic and extracurricular programs.

The new high school opened in the Fall of 2009, and construction of a new church and work on widening and resurfacing some of the main roads show investing in the community is a priority even as population remains level.

John Roth, County Commissioner for Precinct Three, said a lot of people move to Brock for the schools and the area is prime for a laid-back and simple life.

“It’s a nice place with an excellent school system,” he said. “Everybody I know out here is pretty happy to be living here.”

The school district has been rated superior for its financial practices and strives to keep taxes low while providing the best quality education.

This year marks the first year football will be played in Brock, the district has had a robust athletics program offering baseball, girls’ and boys’ basketball, track, volleyball, tennis, golf and cross country.

The athletics and extracurricular activities serve as a sense of pride for the community, where many students excel and are recognized state-wide.

Brock is not experiencing a flood of new residents like some other areas of Parker County. The landscape remains constant and the lifestyle, centered on hard work, education and family, continues from the community’s earliest traditions.

RIGHT: The First United Methodist Church of Brock was established in 1882.

-CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

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Your Parker County

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MAKING WAY FOR THE FUTURE

Hudson Oaks

that’s not contesting their census figures. The figures said that we only grew by 35 in the past 10 years, when we know that we’ve had an increase of 35 households in the past year and a half.”

Campbell-Husband said.

Campbell-Husband emphasized there will be many opportunities for the citizens of Hudson Oaks to make their opinions known and heard.

By Christine A. Hurd The Community News

The growth of business and population in Hudson Oaks has precipitated the need for a long-term plan for the future. The city is contracting with Freese-Nichols Incorporated to develop a 15-year plan.

“The plan will help us decide what the city wants to grow up to be,” said City Administrator Sheri CampbellHusband. “We’ll decide what we want our residential areas to look like, what we want our businesses to look like,

what we want our parks to look like. It will truly be comprehensive.”

Campbell-Husband cited several issues she thinks will come to the fore in the next year.

“We’re going to have to reevaluate our water system and the regional wastewater system… the drought is killing us, just killing us.”

There has also been a Metroplexwide issue of census figures, which have understated the growth of Hudson Oaks.

“I don’t know a city in Fort Worth

“There will be many opportunities for public involvement. We are planning two to three town hall meetings and forming a steering committee that will have representatives from each residential area, businesses, the Chamber of Commerce so we have a variety of demographics,” Campbell-Husband said.

In the next year, several other infrastructure issues are anticipated as well, and the city will decide whether or not to embark on a branding campaign or to begin projects to make the city more aesthetically appealing.

“Along Highway 180, things can look pretty industrial. The council will decide whether or not to vote for median landscaping.

ABOVE LEFT: Hudson Oaks is home to most of the car dealerships in the area.

The city is at the center of growth along the I-20 corridor. | ABOVE: The Public Safety Building is housed in the former city hall.

- CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Hudson Oaks City Information Population: 1,900 Phone Number: 682-229-2400 City Council: Mayor Pat Deen, Tom Marquardt, Brian Lixey, Daniel David, Tom Fitzpatrick, and Paula Wigley City Administrator: Sheri Campbell-Husband City Secretary: Sheila Elmore Monthly Council Meeting: Fourth Thursday, 7 p.m. at Hudson Oaks City Hall, 210 North Lakeshore Drive City Web site: www.hudsonoaks.com

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

9

Growing off the beaten path

Millsap

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Town founder Fuller Millsap’s 1852 log cabin stands in a park next to Millsap City Hall. It was donated to the city by Dr. A.T. Little and Criseyda Koonce.

Millsap has made its name recently as the place where American Idol star Casey James graduated from high school.

The town, however, has been growing in its own right.

The town that was originally a relay station on the stagecoach route that ran from Weatherford to Palo Pinto is now the city that is a business and educational hub for surrounding residents.

Millsap is on Farm Road 113 about 15 miles west of Weatherford in western Parker County. Known for its rich farming history, Millsap served area farmers as a shipping point in the late 1800s for their crops and cattle. Plus, the city offered retail opportunities for the farm families.

The Texas and Pacific Railway came into the area in 1880, about three years after the town’s post office was established. With the railroad, two surrounding com-

munities moved to the Millsap relay (stagecoach) station area to take advantage of the transportation system: Mineral City and Peck City.

The transportation system boosted the town’s population from 100 in 1890 to 800 in 1920, according to The Handbook of Texas. This growth also boosted commerce for the town. By 1900 Millsap had more than a dozen other businesses, three churches, a 10-grade educational facility

Millsap City Information Population: 403

Chrostopher Schofield

Phone Number: 940-6827446

City Secretary: Roxanne Kennedy

City Council: Mayor Jamie French, Mayor Pro Tem Linda Schulz, Mark Barnes, Sally Uribe, Michael Kinman,

Monthly Council Meeting: Last Tuesday, 7 p.m. at Millsap City Hall, 208 Fannin, Millsap, Texas 76066

Stay Up to Date!

Check out the Community Calendar at

www.community-news.com Day • Week • Month • Year • Quickly filter your favorite organization’s events • Summer camp and sports listings • Submit your events to be included

THE COMMUNITY NEWS Where the community comes together!

called Millsap College and a weekly newspaper.

Through the years, especially with the decline in farming, the town has seen a decline in population from the booming days when it was 800.

However, population is up to 403 residents.

One of the largest entities in the area is Millsap Independent School District that covers 124 square miles, the third largest in Parker County. There are about 775 students in the school.

10 2011-2012

Your Parker County

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Rich in farm history

Peaster

Travelers leaving Weatherford, the seat of Parker County, will arrive at Peaster when traveling the scenic FM 920 for nine miles.

Peaster began in the 1870s when Georgia native H.H. Peaster bought 150 acres of land and built a home, according to The Handbook of Texas. Originally known as Freemont, the community’s name was changed in 1885 to Peasterville, and later shortened to Peaster. Rich in farming history, the community grew, and by the mid-1890s there were more than 100 residents. During the mid1920s, the population was more than 300.

Originally children in the area were educated in one-room school houses. Today, Peaster Independent School District is an anchor for the small community whose population is now estimated between 100 and 150. The school district has three comprehensive campuses, numerous athletic fields and facilities, agricultural facilities, transportation center, maintenance and technology buildings, as well as a state-of-the-art administration facility, according to the PISD website. The schools and administrative facilities have more than 1,200 students and employees.

The population of Peaster and its surrounding areas continue to grow, and road development in the area is benefitted by the 2008 Parker County Transportation Bond.

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2011-2012

11

A GREAT RURAL ATMOSPHERE

Poolville, at the junction of Farm Roads 3107 and 920, is an old community that continues to have a great rural atmosphere, which attracts newcomers to the area.

Poolville was established in the 1880s and was named for a large pool of water just east of town. In 1883, the town gained postal service.

Prior to The Great Depression, the town’s population was just over 500. The economic downturn greatly affected the small farming community, and the population decreased.

Records show in 1950 Poolville had 350 residents, and that declined to 230 in the 1980s and 1990. However, as the county’s population grows, so does Poolville’s. The population count in 2006 showed a recovery to pre-Depression times of just over 500.

Today the town, with a population of over 500, is anchored by several businesses, a post office and Poolville Independent School District.

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By Katie Martinez The Community News

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

SCHOOL AND FAMILY Springtown

Just nine years after Texas became the 28th state in the Union, Springtown was first settled by Pioneer John Ward and his family.

Ward came to Texas from New Jersey where he worked repairing wagon wheels along the roadside before becoming a Captain in the Texas Rangers.

In the century-and-a-half since, the town has come a long way from its stagecoach days but the land hasn’t changed much.

And that is just the way they like it, City Administrator Mark Krey said.

“The people here have a strong tie to the land,” he said. “Many grow their own gardens and the area still has a really strong country feel even though we are close enough to a major Metropolitan area to enjoy all the conveniences.”

School and family continue to drive daily life in Springtown, Krey said, and a strong sense of faith and community.

Residents gather for community movie nights put on by Parks and Recreation and the annual Wild West Festival and Christmas on the Square event draw crowds from near and far.

An addition to Springtown Park in 2011 will add a place to honor the service and sacrifices made by members of their community.

Scheduled to be completed in November, the site is intended to be a place for peace and reflection.

“It was important for us that it be a place for reverence,” Krey said.

“Springtown has given two of its sons in this current conflict.”

The town population has increased by 28 percent over the last decade and the completion of $80 million in road projects primed the area for commercial development along the main road, Krey said.

Three new restaurants opened in town in 2011 including one drastic improvement from the Pioneer days — Pizza Hut delivery.

Slow, sustained growth and strategic commercial development are expected, Krey said, but the best place to pass a Friday night in Springtown will still be at Porcupine Stadium, and it will never lose that small-town feel.

TOP: Goshen Creek is Springtown’s newest elementary School. | BOTTOM: An active Chamber of Commerce is housed in Springtown’s historic town square.

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Springtown City Information Population: 2,658 Phone Number: 817-220-4834 City Council: Mayor Doug Hughes, Mayor Pro Tem Tony Smith, Annette Burk, Tom Clayton, Robert Wilson and Denise Taylor.

City Administrator: Mark Krey City Secretary: Jhanna Bogan Monthly Council Meeting: Fourth Thursday, 6:30 p.m. at Springtown City Hall, 102 East Second St., Springtown, Texas 76082 City Web site: www.cityofspringtown.com

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

13

LOOKING AHEAD Weatherford

◗ Weatherford is positioned

for continued strong growth

By Randy Keck The Community News

While the recession in recent years harmed everyone, the city of Weatherford is positioned to emerge with strong growth and continued economic development.

Dennis Clayton, Executive Director of the The Weatherford Economic Development Authority, said retail development and retail growth will continue on and take a new step up with the completion of frontage roads on Interstate 20.

“We continue to get a lot of interest from new retailers,” he said. “That will primarily start with some new shopping center sites, because our two new shopping centers are virtually leased out.”

Land availability for new sites would primarily from Main Street east to Santa Fe Drive. In addition, the completion of the Holland Lake bridge will provide new synergy to the JC Penney area.

It may seem that Weatherford has no shortage of retailers, offering everything from electronics to fast food, but Clayton said there is room for more.

The city conducted a retail trade area study in 2008 and updated it in early 2010.

“That identified some gaps in our retail sales, and that’s primarily in the sporting goods, which is a big box opportunity for us, and there’s still a gap in clothing, shoes, like Old Navy or Gap or T.J. Maxx,” Clayton said. “And there’s still, believe it or not, some gaps in appliances or electronics that Wal-Mart and Lowes and others don’t really fill.”

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Construction on the Fort Worth Highway bridge will continue through 2012, one of several projects that will keep future traffic moving into Watherford.

“And also with Kroger leaving and our growth, there will be some grocery development,” he added.

The key to this growth is the completion of the new access roads from Santa Fe to South Main.

“It’s a major driver, because in 2008 right after JC Penney broke ground we had a lot of interest then, but then the developers discovered there were no

frontage roads,” Clayton said.

“But now, with 90 percent completion on those major ones and the Holland Lake bridge, the major sites have frontage now, and it’s coming back and getting a lot of attention.”

Clayton said additional development will be seen in the near future as far west as Bowie Drive.

“As our retail land develops in the

current location it will grow to the west – Tin Top Bethel Road, and South Bowie, and then the west loop the county is putting in - as it comes around the west side of town and completes into the Interstate that will extend our development to the west another .9 of a mile,” he said.

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Your Parker County

GROWTH from page 13 Growth is headed west because Weatherford is virtually landlocked to the east. Clayton indicated that due to the railroad and steep terrain, building frontage roads east of Santa Fe would prove difficult.

“I think eventually you’ll see Hudson Oaks and Weatherford develop that – each its part – but it’s a little more difficult to go that way.”

The next phase of frontage road construction for Weatherford will be the segment from Bethel Road to South Bowie, which will be complete around the first part of 2013.

Perhaps the most difficult project looking the city in the face is the widening of South Main St. from Interstate 20 to College Park Drive, an 18-month project.

“That will be a bit painful,” Clayton said, “but we have lived through that congestion, now we have multiple alternate routes around South Main.

When that gets completed in about two years the congestion will be cut in half because the volume is doubled - it will be great.”

The Holland Lake ridge and completion of BB Fielder Road give people multiple access points to the main business district without having to go up South Main.

Intestate 20 is not the only major artery into and out of town. Construction is also under way on the bridge leading into town on the Fort Worth Hwy. “That traffic flows pretty well,” Clayton said. “The city and TxDOT coordinated several years ago and the city built Jack Borden Way, and finished it before they started that. That’s a great new traffic access that gets you north, east, west and south.”

Beating the recession Clayton said a list of eight key indicators were all positive at the beginning of the recession in 2008, but all turned negative. Those indicators include prospect activity, sales tax, permits, unemployment, and natural gas business.

“Weatherford and Fort Worth have done well,” Clayton said. “We are recovering – it’s a slow recovery. We continue to grow in virtually all those indicators, so we’re feeling really good about all that.”

“One of the key things I am excited about is Weatherford Regional Medical Center,” Clayton said. “Two years ago

Our family serving your family…

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they built a new ER for about $25 million. They are currently halfway through the $22 million expansion of new patient rooms. They are making all their patient rooms private. That’s almost a $50 million investment.

The services at the hospital are vastly improving, the emergency room facilities and services are top quality. Private rooms will make that a medical care center of choice.”

Clayton added that in addition to facilities, the hospital has been actively recruiting physicians. Because the hospital is run by a private company, it pays property and sales taxes of about $1.6 million.

“If you read and talk to economists around the state and the nation, health care is one of the biggest opportunities for economic development, job creation and wealth creation there is in any community, so we’re very fortunate to be in a growth pattern in that sector,” Clayton said.

a direct result of the retail growth we have had. The city sales tax (revenues) from 2004 to 2009 just about doubled from about $4.5 to about $8.9 million just because of that growth.

“From my perspective, Weatherford is one of the top five business growth areas in the Metroplex because of our accessibility, affordability, quality of schools. This growth is going to continue.

“We’re just in a good place.”

Weatherford City Information Population: 25,300 Phone Number: 817-598-4000 City Council: Mayor Dennis Hooks, Heidi Wilder, Jeff Robinson, Waymon Hamilton, Craig Swancy.

City Manager: Jerry Blaisdell

A good place

City Secretary: Malinda Nowell

Clayton attributed Weatherford’s strong growth as being a direct component of the Metroplex.

“Quality of life, great schools, affordable land, easy commute – this is the last frontier of the Metroplex where you still have those things. The rooftops are

Monthly Council Meeting: Second and fourth Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. at Weatherford City Hall, 303 Palo Pinto Street, Weatherford, TX 76086.

City Web site: www.weatherfordtx.gov

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The Community News

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2011-2012

15

Focus on business growth and quality of life

By Christine A. Hurd The Community News

Following a year of budget challenges, the focus in Willow Park will be enticing business to move in and to raise the standard of living. Mayor Marvin Glasgow has several goals he would like to accomplish.

Willow Park

“There’ll be very little construction until we get the budget under control— at this point we just can’t afford it. We have to assess our income and then go from there,” Glasgow said.

Willow Park receives most of its income from sales tax and its ad valorem tax. Glasgow believes that once a few more business set up shop, the city will be able to take care of delayed business.

“Construction on Brookshire’s will finish in a few months, and we’re currently in negotiations for a few new businesses to come in. It’ll be good to use the space we have, and of course, business is always good for the city,” Glasgow said. Glasgow believes that, like all the cities of Parker County, there will be challenges regarding population growth, but he is especially concerned about water.

“Water is an incredibly serious issue, especially the level of the lakes. We have a few options. We can always pay for water from Weatherford, but they need it as well. We could get a pipeline from Fort Worth, but that would take a while before we’d start seeing results,” said Glasgow, “Although one good thing is that lake levels are only down 2-3 feet.”

ABOVE: The Lehnert family – Chrissy, Mat, three-year-old Maddie and fivemonth-old Ethan – stroll across the bridge in the park next to the Willow Park Community Center. (Christopher Amos) LEFT: Willow Park’s popular Parkfest was pre-empted by road construction in 2010, but continues as of 2011 in the fall.

(File Photo)

Glasgow said that he wants to also try to improve the quality of living for residents and employees as well.

Willow Park City Information

“One thing I’d really like to do is just have some sort of raise for the people that work for the city. It’s been years for them,” Glasgow said. Even though there is a general sense of belt-tightening, Glasgow wants the city to be able to sponsor events that its citizens want.

Population: 4,400

“We’re going to have ParkFest in October—that’s all set, but we really just want to know what the people of Willow Park want. A Halloween party, a beginning of Spring fest, or maybe just a ‘I’m glad we’re all alive’ celebration,” Glasgow said, “It’s nice for one day to forget about worries and just relax and have fun.”

Phone Number: 817-441-7108 City Council: Mayor Marvin Glasgow, Mayor Pro-Tem Gene Martin, Richard Neverdousky, Amy Padony, Mark Hickerson, Hale Alderman City Administrator: Candy Scott City Secretary: Yael Shushan-Hoffman Monthly Council Meeting: Third Monday, 6:30 p.m. at Willow Park City Hall, 516 Ranch House Road, Willow Park, TX 76087 City Web site: www.willowpark.org

16 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

COUNTY GOVERNMENT Parker County Web site: www.co.parker.tx.us COUNTYWIDE OFFICIALS Mark Riley County Judge 817-598-6148 Fax: 817-598-6199 Judge.riley@parkercountytx.com One Courthouse Sq. Weatherford, Texas 76086

John Forrest County Attorney 817-594-8409 Fax: 817-594-8414 John.forrest@parkercountytx.com 118 West Columbia St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Judge Jerry Buckner County Court at Law 1 817-598-6179 Fax: 817-598-6119 Judge.buckner@parkercountytx.com 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086

Judge Ben Akers County Court at Law 2 817-598-6195 Fax: 817-598-6164 Judge.akers@parkercountytx.com One Courthouse Sq. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Jeane Brunson

Jim Thorp Treasurer 817-598-6150 Fax: 817-598-6180 Jim.thorp@parkercountytx.com 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086

Mike Rhoten County Auditor 817-598-6104 Fax: 817-598-6181 Mike.rhoten@parkercountytx.com 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086

Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation District 1250 E. Hwy 199 817-523-5200 Fax: 877-388-8423 (toll-free) www.uppertrinitygcd.com P.O. Box 1749 Springtown Texas 76082

DISTRICT COURTS Trey Loftin 43rd District Court Judge 817-598-6069 Fax: 817-598-6108 117 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086

County Clerk (Deeds and Records) 817-594-7461 Fax: 817-594-9540 (Civil) 817-594-1632 Fax: 817-598-6129 Jeane.brunson@parkercountytx.com 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherfod, Texas 76086

Judge Graham Quisenberry

Larry Fowler

District Clerk (Civil) 817-598-6114 (Felony) 817-598-6194 Fax: 817-598-6131 117 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Sheriff 817-594-8845 Fax: 817-594-7809 Larry.fowler@parkercountytx.com 129 Hogle St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Marjorie King Tax Assessor-Collector Phone: 817-598-6139 Fax: 817-598-6133 Marjorie.king@parkercountytx.com 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086

415th District Court Judge 817-598-6162 Fax: 817-598-6161 117 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Sharena Gilliland

Don Schnebly District Attorney 817-598-6124 Fax: 817-599-7628 117 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086

COUNTY COURTHOUSE One Courthouse Square Weatherford, Texas 76086

COURTHOUSE ANNEX 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherfod, Texas 76086

DISTRICT COURTS BUILDING 117 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086

The Community News

PRECINCT 1

Your Parker County

PRECINCT 2

George Conley Precinct 1 Commissioner 817-220-7218 Fax: 817-220-7220 George.conley@parkercountytx.com 3000 Veal Station Road P.O. Box 681 Springtown, Texas 76082

Wayne Hayes Justice of the Peace 817-220-5857 Fax: 817-220-2000 Judge.hayes@parkercountytx.com 1020 East Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082

Larry Nix Constable 817-523-0027 Larry,nix@parkercountytx.com 1020 East Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082

2011-2012

PRECINCT 3

PRECINCT 4

Craig Peacock

John Roth

Dusty Renfro

Precinct 2 Commissioner 817-594-4022 Fax: 817-599-0076 craig.peacock@parkercountytx.com 3033 FM 1885 Weatherford, Texas 76088

Precinct 3 Commissioner 817-594-0371 Fax: 817-594-4496 John.roth@parkercountytx.com 1111 FM 1189 Brock, Texas 76087

Precinct 4 Commissioner 817-596-0004 817-596-5016 www.parker4.net 1320 Airport Road Aledo, Texas 76008

Kelly Green

Suzie Merkley

Lynn Johnson

Justice of the Peace 817-598-0496 207 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Justice of the Peace 817-598-6192 Fax: 817-598-6112 Judge.merkley@parkercountytx.com 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086

Justice of the Peace 817-441-1071 Fax: 817-441-4170 lynn.johnson@parkercountytx.com 5189 East I-20 Service Road North, Suite 109 Willow Park, Texas 76087

Lowell Moss Constable 682-229-2167 Lowell.moss@parkercountytx.com 207 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Glen Praytor Constable 817-598-6117 or 817-598-6193 Glen.praytor@parkercountytx.com 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086

THE COMMUNITY NEWS

17

Bob Brown Constable 817-441-9396 Bob.brown@parkercountytx.com 5189 East I-20 Service Road North, Suite 109 Willow Park, Texas 76087

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18 2011-2012

Your Parker County

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Spring Creek Musical celebrates 70th anniversary ◗ The musical has seen

much rising talent through its generationspanning lifetime

By Nadeen Murphree Special to The Community News

The Spring Creek Musical celebrated 70 years of continuous old time music in May of 2011 under the more than 100-yearsold Spring Creek Tabernacle.

The musical began in the home of the late Eddleman and Audrey Pickard. When the crowd outgrew their home it was moved to the tabernacle where it has been a gathering place for musicians, friends and visitors over these many years.

Gaston Floyd stepped in to help with the musical for many years along with his wife Estelle, who baked her famous cakes for the musicians. In later years their son Wendall (Frank) Floyd took over

the operation and later Pickard’s son-in-law Kenneth Murphree and Floyd’s daughter-in-law, the late Belba Floyd, along with their spouses, took over the bookings and sound for the musical.

Many people have volunteered over the years to keep this event open for the public to have a glimpse of the past when musicians would get together after a day’s work and hold jam sessions until the wee hours of the morning.

Today it is run by third generation Floyd families including David Floyd who operates the sound, Lesa Floyd Walters who books the acts and Janice Floyd James who helps with the snack bar. It is an all-volunteer run musical with donations used to pay the utilities and upkeep of the old tabernacle. No one gets paid for playing, working in the concessions, cleaning the grounds, running the sound or booking the event.

Many young people have gotten their start on that stage to go

on to stardom, including Katie Keenie, Van Darien, Josh Ward, and Mickey Parsley, just to name a few who are currently making it big in the music world.

Glen Tarver grew up in Spring Creek and moved to California where he won many fiddle contests and made some recordings.

Thanks to the generosity of Mary Kemp, one of his old long-playing recordings was given away to a lucky winner.

In the 50s one band went on to the Louisiana Hayride playing backup for Elvis Presley and another won Best Band in North Texas by the Texas County – Western Music Association.

The Tabernacle is located about seven miles south of Weatherford on Hwy. 51.

The musical is held the second Friday night of each month. For more information contact Lisa Walters at waltersns@gmail.com, or David Floyd at david.floyd@ chk.com.

SPECIAL TO THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Reminiscing about the good old days are international recording artists Mac Curtis (left) and Kenneth Murphree.

Mac played on the Spring Creek stage in the 1950s before going on to make it big in Rockabilly music. He is still recording and touring the world.

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The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

19

EMERGENCY SERVICES ◗ Emergency responders

stand ready Parker County is blessed to have countless volunteers and paid personnel ready to respond to any type of emergency.

Wildfires during the spring and summer of 2011 occupied much of the time of emergency responders, both at home and in neighboring Palo Pinto County.

The following pages will list who to call, although in an emergency situation the only numbers you need to remember are 9-1-1.

LEFT: Lt. Michael Baldwin shows off one of the trucks from Hudson Oaks Fire Rescue, part of Emergency Services District #3.

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

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20 2011-2012

Your Parker County

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Aledo ISD Police Department Chawn Gilliland (Chief) 817-441-5147 117 Vernon Road Aledo, Texas 76008

While it is a common occurrence to be served by volunteer firefighters in Parker County, the Sheriff’s Department and local police departments are also served by many unpaid reserve officers.

Parker County Sheriff’s Department Larry Fowler (Sheriff) 817-594-8845 129 Hogle St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Hudson Oaks Police Department Brandon Mayberry (Chief) 682-229-2400 150 N. Oakridge Drive, Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087

Reno Police Department Joe Poline (Interim Chief) 817-221-2500 195 W. Reno Rd., Azle, TX

Springtown Police Department

Weatherford Police Department

Willow Park Police Department

Ed Crowdis (Chief) 817-220-0828 220 Hilltop, Springtown, Texas 76082

Mike Manning (Chief) 817-598-4310 801 Santa Fe Drive, Weatherford, Texas 76086

Brad Johnson (Chief) 817-441-9747 101 W. Stage Coach Trail, Willow Park, Texas 76087

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The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

21

Weatherford Fire Department

FIRE DEPARTMENTS

Paul Rust (Chief) 817-598-4282 202 W. Oak St., Weatherford, TX 76086

Adell-Whitt Fire Department Curtis Goen (Chief) 940-798-3055 4312 N. FM 52 Whitt, TX 76490

Fire Station 1 817-598-4286 122 S. Alamo St., Weatherford, Texas 76086

Aledo VFD Fire Station 2 817-598-4014 122 W. Lake Drive, Weatherford, Texas 76087

Scott Mitchel (Chief) 817-441-7284 Fire Station 1 215 Mesquite, Aledo, Texas 76008

Fire Station 3 817-598-4112 122 Atwood Court, Weatherford, Texas 76086

Fire Station 2 6085 White Settlement Rd., Weatherford, TX 76087

Fire Station 4 817-598-2217 905 West Park Avenue, Weatherford, Texas 76086

Brock-Dennis VFD Travis Scrimshire (Chief) 817-341-7368 1107 FM 1189, Weatherford, TX 76087-7463

Willow Park Fire-Rescue Jim Witherow (Chief) 817-441-8020

Central Community Fire Department

Station #1 101 Stagecoach Trail, Willow Park, TX 76087

David Chilcut (Chief) 817-599-0818 4100 Old Agnes Road, Weatherford, Texas 76088

Cool-Garner Volunteer Fire Department Rodney Robertson (Chief) 817-597-0120 2290 Garner School Rd., Weatherford, Texas 76088

Cresson Volunteer Fire Department Joe Huffman (Chief) 817-396-4498 105 Crook St., Cresson, TX 76035

Hudson Oaks Fire-Rescue/ ESD No. 3 Pat English (Chief) 817-599-0576 150 N. Oak Ridge Drive, Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087

Millsap VFD Neal Doss (Chief) 940-682-4390 407 South Houston Street, Millsap, TX 76066

Mountain River Fire Department Brett Wright (Chief) 940-682-7739 300 Redbluff Circle, Millsap, TX 76066

SPECIAL TO THE COMMUNITY NEWS

The summer 2011 Parker County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) graduates completed a free 20.5-hour course. Back row: Instructor Kit Marshall, Amber Gallegos, Wanda Gallegos, Ramiro Gallegos, Katie Catron, Eric Catron, Sandi Brooks, James Brooks, and Pat Talley. Kneeling: Instructor David Reeves and Kathy Meyer. Not shown are Lucy and Jerry Craighead. CERT is a grass-roots movement that actively involves everyone in making our communities safer, stronger, and better prepared for disasters. For more information or to sign up for the course, contact Kit Marshall at kit.marshall@parkercountytx.com.

Station #2 3508 Indian Camp Road, Willow Park, TX 76087

ANIMAL CONTROL Weatherford/Parker County Animal Shelter 817-598-4111 403 Hickory Lane, Weatherford, Texas 76086

Peaster Fire Department Leo Scott (Chief) 817-594-4551 221 Judd St., Weatherford, TX 76088

Poolville Fire Department Lannie Fulton (Chief) 817-523-2056 16401 FM 920, Poolville, TX 76487

Springtown Volunteer Fire Department Eric Vinson (Chief) 817-523-7598 P.O. Box 282, 215 Goshen Road, Springtown, Texas 76082

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Firefighter and EMT Cody Burge loads a Jaws-of-Life tool into a Willow Park Fire Department vehicle.

22 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

Public Services

Parker Paws assists with influx of unwanted animals save a life. I want you to adopt your next best friend here simply because these are some terrific, loving, family-friendly dogs and cats,” she said.

Foster Parker Paws is always in need of people willing to care for an animal in their own home until it is adopted into a forever home. Rather than simply assigning a foster pet, Parker Paws allows foster volunteers to choose an animal from the shelter’s kennels. “Some people prefer older dogs or smaller dogs or larger dogs. We let you choose who you bring into your home when you foster,” she said.

“We pay for their medical care, but feeding them is the responsibility of the foster family. We’re basically looking for responsible pet owners with fenced yards and the ability to sometimes separate the foster animal from their own pets, if needed.” Foster families often fall in love with their charges and end up adopting them. And while that’s a good thing, “it can mean we lose that person as a foster, and have to find someone to take their place,” said Pursley.

Volunteer

By Sandra Rousseau The Community News

It’s 11 a.m. on a Saturday when Barb Pursley arrives at the Weatherford/ Parker County Animal Shelter. The shelter is just opening for the day, but already people are lined up to surrender armloads of puppies, boxes of kittens and older dogs on leashes. These folks get there early because they know that once the shelter’s kennels are full, animal control officials won’t accept any more.

By 12:30, 20 animals have been taken in and only two have been adopted out.

Sadly, the shelter will have more openings the next day, although not because of a run on adoptions. Unfortunately, adoption numbers are down.

Pursley is the president of Parker Paws, a nonprofit, volunteer organization that provides much-needed support to the Weatherford/Parker County Animal Shelter. Despite the influx of

unwanted animals and the shortage of people looking to adopt a pet, Pursley, energetic, outgoing and quick to smile, stays amazingly positive.

As sad as it is to see unwanted pets living in kennels, some who must be euthanized before they are adopted, Pursley remains upbeat and cheerful.

Helping the shelter and its homeless occupants is her passion. She and a small army of animal-loving volunteers support the shelter, its workers and its animals in ways too numerous to count.

Parker Paws is not a rescue group; they do not take in unwanted animals from individuals. Instead, Parker Paws could be described as an auxiliary for the shelter. Parker Paws provides support in the form of volunteers and donations, handling everything from bathing dogs to fostering animals who have run out of time, to holding lowcost spay and neuter clinics.

If you’re wondering what you can do to help alleviate crowded conditions at the shelter, Pursley, of course, has a few suggestions.

Adopt “This shelter is where I want you to find your next best friend,” said Pursley.

She and the Parker Paws volunteers work hard to identify family-friendly dogs and cats that are healthy, well-adjusted and socialized. “I encourage anyone considering a new pet to come to the shelter and see all the wonderful, adoptable dogs and cats we have here,” she said, referring to the many sweet, loving animals that, through no fault of their own, have found themselves homeless.

Adoption fees vary but include spaying or neutering, a very important component in controlling the unwanted animal population. “I don’t want you to adopt a pet here because you want to

In addition to foster families, Parker Paws is always in need of general volunteers. “It’s a great help to have volunteers come in and walk dogs or take them to the play yard for exercise. Volunteers can also bathe dogs before surgery and help people who come to the shelter to choose a pet,” Pursley said.

“There is always something that needs to be done. The shelter staff ’s focus is animal control. They are incredibly busy with intake, paperwork and calls. Parker Paws’ focus is adoptions.

We work directly with the animals to get them adopted and give them the attention they need. The shelter staff does a great job but they just don’t have the manpower to do the extra things we do” said Pursley.

Donate The angels of Parker Paws supply the shelter with many items the WPCAS budget simply cannot afford.

For example, Parker Paws purchases leashes, cardboard cat carriers, litter

The Community News

Your Parker County even wading pools for dogs to romp through during their time in the play yard. In some cases Parker Paws pays for medical care such as heartworm testing and spaying or neutering.

They also pay for all kinds of little items. “The shelter is a government office and so they don’t keep petty cash.

But Parker Paws does, so we can take care of little things for them quickly,” explained Pursley. This point was illustrated when Pursley was shown a broken piece of plumbing pipe and asked to run by Lowe’s to purchase a new one. “The shelter would have to put in a purchase order for this, but I can get it taken care of today,” she said.

The expenses that Parker Paws helps the shelter with require plenty of cold, hard cash, making monetary donations a big need. Additionally, supplies themselves are always welcome. While some generous donors have given bigger items such as fencing and large dog runs, there is no donation that is too small. The shelter can never have enough old towels, housetraining pads, bags of kitty litter or too much pet food, bleach and liquid soap.

“McDavid Estates had a pet food drive recently and brought us 1100 pounds of pet food. It was wonderful.”

2011-2012

23

Spay or Neuter Your Pets Pet owners who allow dogs and cats to breed unwanted offspring place a burden on the tax payers of Parker County. Parker Paws holds low-cost spay and neuter clinics once each month. These clinics also feature low-cost vaccinations, heartworm testing and other preventative care. Call 940-682-4970 for additional information or to schedule an appointment.

PARKER PAWS www.ParkerPaws.org Email barb@parkerpaws.org Weatherford/Parker County Animal Shelter 817-598-4111 403 Hickory Lane, off of Bankhead Highway in Weatherford Open 11am to 4pm, Tuesday - Saturday.

Up to 4 days/wk 9am to 2pm

24 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

Education

Donna Smith 817.917.1716

donnaLsmith.com

RE/MAX Trinity 817-916-4792 Your home town real estate specialist

The Community News

Your Parker County

Aledo ISD

2011-2012

25

QUICK LISTINGS ALEDO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 1008 Bailey Ranch Road - Aledo 817-441-8327 aledo.schoolfusion.us

CODER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 817-441-6095

STUARD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 817-441-5103

VANDAGRIFF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 817-441-8771

McCALL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 817-441-4500

McANALLY INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL 817-441-8347

ALEDO MIDDLE SCHOOL 817-441-5198

DON DANIEL NINTH GRADE CENTER 817-441-4504

ALEDO HIGH SCHOOL 817-441-8711

Coder Elementary School

McCall Elementary School

12 Vernon Road, Aledo, Texas, 76008 817-441-6095 Grades: Pre-K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Pick up/drop off: In the front drive of the school; buses pick up/drop off on the South side.

Other information: Coder is home to the district’s only pre-kindergarten program.

400 Scenic Trail, Willow Park, Texas, 76087 817-441-4500 Grades: K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Pick up/drop off: Grades K through 1 pick up in the back.

Grades 2 through 5 pick up in the front. All drop offs are in the front of the school. Buses will pick up and drop off on the east side of campus.

Stuard Elementary School

McAnally Intermediate School

200 Thunderhead Lane, Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-5103 Grades: K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Pick up/drop off: In back of the school. Buses will pick up/drop off in the front.

151 FM 5 South, Aledo, Texas, 76008 817-441-8347 Grade: 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8:40 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.

Vandagriff Elementary School 408 FM 1187 South, Aledo, Texas, 76008 817-441-8771 Grades: K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Pick up/drop off: In front of the school. Buses will pick up/drop off in the back.

Other information: The school motto is “Join us in a celebration of life and learning.”

Aledo Middle School 416 FM 1187 South, Aledo, Texas, 76008 817-441-5198 Grades: 7 and 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8:40 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.

Other information: Programs such as Whiz Quiz, drama club and band are offered here.

Don Daniel Ninth Grade Center 990 Bailey Ranch Road, Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-4504 Grade: 9 Start/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Pick up/Drop off: At the front of the school.

THE LEARNING CENTER 817-441-5176

Aledo High School 1000 Bailey Ranch Road, Aledo, Texas, 76008 817-441-8711 Grades: 10 through 12 Starting/Closing Times: 8:40 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.

Parking Permits: Parking permits on the first day of school.

Other information: Elective courses currently offered include music theory, art, theatre production, Cold War studies, anatomy and physiology and many others. Several Advanced Placement and Pre-Advanced placement classes are also available.

Extracurricular activities include National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Latin/Spanish Club, Future Business Leaders of America, the Aledo Players Drama Club and athletics.

26 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

Brock ISD Brock Elementary School 100 Grindstone Road, Brock, Texas 76087 817-594-8017, Metro: 817-596-8372 Grades: K-5 Starting/Closing Times: 7:55 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.

Other Information: Brock Elementary School is a TEA Exemplary School.

Brock Junior High School 300 Grindstone Road, Brock, Texas 76087 817-594-3195, Metro: 817-596-2916 Grades: 6-8 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.

Brock High School 410 Eagle Spirit Lane, Brock, Texas 76087 817-596-8003 Grades: 9-12 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Other Information: Brock High School is a TEA Recognized School. Students can earn up to 25 hours of college credit with dual enrollment courses before graduation.

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Paige Parliament poses with one of the three state champion trophies her name is on â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2009, 2010 and 2011. The Brock Eagle and Lady Eagle basketball teams have eight combined state trophies at the entry of Brock High School. There are also two Texas Cup Championship trophies and one Lady Eagle softball state championship trophy.

Millsap ISD Millsap Elementary School 101 Wilson Bend Rd., Millsap, Texas 76066 940-682-4994 Grades: EC-5 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Millsap Middle School 301 East Brazos St., Millsap, Texas 76066 940-682-4994 Grades: 6-8 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Millsap High School 600 Bulldog Blvd., Millsap, Texas 76066 940-682-4994 Grades: 9-12 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.

Millsap Alternative Education Placement 305 Pine St., Millsap, Texas 76066 940-682-4994 Starting/Closing Times: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Community News

Your Parker County

Peaster ISD Peaster Elementary School

3400 Harwell Lake Road, Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-594-1884 Grades: Pre-K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 8:05 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Other information: The elementary school has a pre-kindergarten program, an early childhood program for children with disabilities, and kindergarten through grade 5 programs. The average class size in grades kindergarten through grade 5 is 18 students. In addition, the elementary school has a gifted and talented (GT) program, a special education program, a Title 1 program and English as a Second Language (ESL) program.

Peaster Middle School 8512 FM 920, Peaster, Texas 76485 817-341-5000 Grades: 6 through 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.

Other information: Extra-curricular

activities include: sports: volleyball, basketball, track and tennis; fine arts: band, theater arts, art and choral music. Students participate in academic contests and are encouraged to be involved in community-sponsored activities to become well-rounded citizens.

Peaster High School 3600 Harwell Lake Road Peaster, Texas 76485 817-341-5000 Grades: 9 through 12 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.

Other information: A number of honors and Advanced Placement courses are available for collegebound students and additional programs are being added as needed. Extra-curricular activities include: sports: volleyball, cross-country, basketball, track, tennis, golf, baseball, and softball; fine arts: band, theater arts, art and choral music; organizations: FCCLA, FFA, NHS, student council, computer club and others.

Poolville ISD Poolville Elementary School

16025 FM 920, Poolville, Texas 76487 817-599-3308 Grades: Pre-K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 8:05 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.

Other information: The elementary school offers programs in math/science and accelerated reader. It holds morning enrichment and tutoring before school at 7:30 to 8 a.m. and will host family reading nights.

School Motto: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Paw Power.â&#x20AC;?

Poolville Junior High 16025 FM 920, Poolville, Texas 76487 817-594-4539 Grades: 6 through 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.

Poolville High School 1001 Lone Star Road, Poolville, Texas 76487 817-599-5134 Grades: 9 through 12 Starting/Closing Times: 8:05 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Other information: PHS offers a dual credit program, an ag science program, and an athletic program that advanced to the playoffs in all sports.

2011-2012

27

28 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

Springtown ISD

QUICK LISTINGS Administration 301 East 5th St. – Springtown Phone: 817-220-7243 Fax: 817-523-5766 www.springtownisd.net

Reno Elementary School 817-221-5001

Reno Elementary School

Springtown Intermediate School

172 W. Reno Road, Azle, Texas 76020 817-221-5001 Grades: Pre K through 4 Starting/Closing Times: 7:50 a.m. – 3:05 p.m.

300 Pojo Drive, Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-1219 Grades: 5 and 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Goshen Creek Elementary School

Springtown Middle School

401 S. Pojo Drive, Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-0272 Grades: Pre-K through 4 Starting/Closing times: 7:50 a.m. – 3:05 p.m.

500 Pojo Drive, Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-7455 Grades: 7 and 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8:00 a.m. – 3:20 p.m.

Goshen Creek Elementary School 817-220-0272

Springtown Elementary School 817-220-2498

Watson Elementary School 817-220-2621

Springtown Elementary School

Springtown High School

416 E. Third St., Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-2498 Grades: Pre-K through 4 Starting/Closing Times: 7:50 a.m. – 3:05 p.m.

915 W. Hwy 199, Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-3888 Grades: 9 through 12 Starting/Closing Times: 8:10 a.m. – 3:25 p.m.

Watson Elementary School 301 East 5th St., Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-2621 Grades: Pre K through K Starting/Closing Times: 7:55 a.m. – 3:10 p.m.

Springtown Intermediate School 817-220-1219

Springtown Middle School 817-220-7455

Springtown High School 817-220-3888

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

29

Weatherford ISD Austin Elementary School 1776 Texas Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-2848 Grades: K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Other information: Activities available through this school include geography/spelling bees, student leadership team, UIL, Young Authors Expo, band and choir. In addition to these, there is a “Quest” gifted and talented program. The “Kids Unite” afterschool program is also available here.

Crockett Elementary School 1015 Jameson St., Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-2811 Grades: Pre-K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 7:50 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Pre-K 3: 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Pre-K 4: 12:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Other information: The “Kids Unite” after-school program is available here. Crockett school colors are green and white, and the school mascot is the lion cub. school program. Geography/spelling bees, Destination Imagination, UIL, Young Authors Expo and sixth grade band are also available.

Ikard Elementary School Curtis Elementary School 501 W. Russell Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-598-2838 Grades: K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Other information: In addition to UIL, band and choir, Curtis also offers an “exemplary” reading buddy program, a peer mediator group and a Succeeding at Reading program.

100 Ikard Lane, Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-598-2818 Grades: Pre-K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 7:45 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Seguin Elementary School

Martin Elementary School 719 N. Oakridge Drive, Weatherford, Texas, 76087 817-598-2910 Grades: K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Other information: The “Quest” gifted and talented program is offered at this campus as well as the “Kids Unite” after-

499 E. Eighth St., Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-598-2814 Grades: Pre-K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Pre-K 3: 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Pre-K 4: 12:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Other information: A bilingual Pre-K through sixth grade program is also available at Seguin.

Turn to WISD, page 30

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30 2011-2012

WISD from page 29

Wright Elementary School 1309 W. Charles St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-2828 Grades: Pre-K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Pre-K 3: 8:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Pre-K 4: 12:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Other information: The “Quest” and “Kids Unite” programs are offered here as well as a bilingual Pre-K through sixth grade program.

Hall Middle School 902 Charles St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-2822 Grades: 7 and 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8:05 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Other information: Activities/Programs include student council, poetry, drama clubs, a teen leadership group and the Hall Highsteppers Dance Team.

Pre-AP classes are also offered here.

Your Parker County

Tison Middle School 102 Meadowview Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-598-2960 Grades: 7 and 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8:05 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.

WHS Ninth Grade Center 1007 S. Main Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-2847 Grade: 9 Starting/Closing Times: 8:15 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Other information: Students can participate in elective such as cosmetology, auto tech., tech systems, art, agriculture, speech, team leadership, yearbook or “Blue Belles.”

Weatherford High School 2121 Bethel Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-598-2858 Grades: 10 through 12 Starting/Closing Times: 8:15 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Other information: Organizations include FFA, FCA, Art Honor Society, the “Blue Belles,” the “Grass Burr” newspaper, the American Sign Language Club, Chamber of Commerce Junior Ambassadors and more.

www.community-news.com

QUICK LISTINGS Administration 1100 Longhorn Drive – Weatherford www.weatherfordisd.com Phone: 817-598-2800 Fax: 817-598-2955

Stephen F. Austin Elementary School

Juan N. Seguin Elementary School 817-598-2814

Bill W. Wright Elementary School 817-598-2828

Hall Middle School

817-598-2848

817-598-2822

David Crockett Elementary School

Tison Middle School

817-598-2811

817-598-2960

Raymond E. Curtis Elementary School

WHS Ninth Grade Center 817-598-2847

817-598-2838

Weatherford High School

Bose Ikard Elementary School

817-598-2858

817-598-2818

Phone: 817-598-2858 ext. 3511 Fax: 817-598-2881

Mary Martin Elementary School 817-598-2910

P.A.S.S. Learning Center

Bridge Academy Phone: 817-598-2800 ext. 3809 (Located in Ninth Grade Center)

John Street Suites 817-441-4101 Suites available

Proud Home of Al Polished Up All the

Gossip

2850 Fort Worth Hwy. Hudson Oaks, TX 76087

(817) 594-2602 www.kwikkarhudsonoaks.com

Mon-Fri 8am-7pm Sat 8am-5pm Sun 10am-4pm

Hair Salon & Spray Tan Suite 100 106 108

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MANICURE & PEDICURE SHELLAC SUITE 101

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The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

31

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Aledo Christian School 817-441-7357 400 Queen St., P.O. Box 117 Aledo, Texas 76008 Grades: K (for 4/5 year olds) through 12 ACS, founded in 1981, offers a college preparatory curriculum and a variety of extra-curricular activities utilizing the framework of a biblical world view. The goal is to provide students with an academically sound education and to help them understand and apply biblical principles.

Anderson Private School For the gifted, talented and creative 817-448-8484 14900 White Settlement Road Fort Worth, Texas 76108 www.andersonschool.net Grades: K through 12

Trinity Christian Academy 817-441-7901 4954 E. I-20 Service Road South Willow Park, Texas 76087 www.tcaeagles.org Grades: Pre-K through 12 With a curriculum that works to balance ministry, athleticism and academics, TCA has seen a boom in enrollment and currently serves students from western Fort Worth, Weatherford, Aledo and eastern Parker County.

Brock Country Day

Hope Lutheran School

Reading Friends

741 FM 1189 Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-613-8844

4795 East Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-221-4673

10303 East Bankhead Hwy. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6060

Weatherford Christian School

Children’s Academy

Kalyn’s Country Daycare

South Bowie Daycare

817-596-7807 111 E. Columbia St. Weatherford, Texas, 76086 www.wcslions.org Grades: Pre-K through 12 WCS provides an accelerated educational curriculum, and all students at the school are required to attend Chapel.

Teachers have requisite certification.

936 East Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-8030

1718 South Bowie Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-0655

Crutcher & Crutcher

2008 North Farm Road Hwy. 51 Weatherford, Texas 76085 817-596-9596 131 West Church St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-6711 1921 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-9990

1 Springtown St. Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-0261

First Baptist Aledo Preschool

PRESCHOOLS/CHILD CARE Acorn Acres Childcare 4895 East I-20, Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-1875 Fax: 817-441-2181 www.oakridgechurch.org acornacres@gmail.com

Aledo Country Day Academy 117 Crockett St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8935 Fax: 817-441-8551

All About Kids 1441 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-1330 Fax: 817-341-1605 iigasca@sbcglobal.net

128 Elm St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8885 Fax: 817-441-9007 www.fbcaledo.com

Head Start/ Texas Neighborhood Services (Need-based childcare and education for children whose parents are employed or in school) 602 West Water St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-1289 Fax: 817-598-0232

Heart 2 Heart Montessori Academy 201 Canyon Court Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-7201

Little Miracles 117 Ranch House Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-6285 Fax: 817-441-1791

Little Tyke Creative Childcare 1718 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-7556

North Side Christian Preschool 910 North Main St. Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-599-8612 www.nsbcweatherford.com

Oakwood Academy 101 Bluebonnet Dr. Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-341-7200

South Oak Learning Center 113 West J.E. Woody Road Springtown, Texas 76082

Sprouts Learning Center 5072 I-20 Service Road North Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-1906

Stepping Stones 213 Scenic Trail Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-565-3069

Sylvan Learning Center 220 Fort Worth Hwy. Suite 500 Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-594-4461 www.sylvanlearning.com/weatherford

The Schoolhouse, Inc. 1116 Santa Fe Dr. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-8444 www.weatherfordschoolhouse.com

32 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

◗ Weatherford College has

record-breaking enrollment

By Katie Martinez The Community News

More than a century before Tarrant County College opened its doors in Fort Worth, Weatherford College was educating students in Parker County.

As the oldest-running community college in the Southwest, the college has graduated and certified thousands with an operational mission to enrich people’s lives.

Recent years have brought recordbreaking enrollment and the college isn’t shying away from the growth despite difficult economic conditions; it’s investing in the future.

In addition to updates to the mansards and roofs on several of the buildings, the college is expanding its presence beyond the city and building oncampus to accommodate a growing student population.

The new softball field, scheduled for completion in December 2011, will bring the college into compliance with Title IX federal gender equity regulations.

A new 40,000-square-foot academic building will house 10 classrooms, eight laboratories, two lecture halls and a number of faculty offices.

“I think within a year and a half, it’ll look like a brand new campus in

WEATHERFORD COLLEGE Main Campus 225 College Park Dr. Weatherford, TX 76086 817-594-5471 www.wc.edu

Granbury Campus 210 North Jones Granbury, Texas 76048 (817) 598-6392

Wise County Campus 307 South Cates Decatur, TX 76234 (940) 627-2690

Mineral Wells Campus 704 Hood rd.

Mineral Wells, TX 76067 (940) 325-2591

Weatherford,” Kevin Eaton, college president, said. “I’m excited because I think the students will appreciate that. They’ll feel like they’re learning in a modern facility instead of one that looks 42-years old.”

The Granbury campus welcomes its first students this year and construction on a new Wise County campus is expected to be completed by the Fall of 2012.

The growth potential was there, Eaton said, and the college had to expand to accommodate the demand.

ABOVE RIGHT: Weatherford College in the process of receiving a facelift with new roofs and mansards on several buildings in the summer of 2011.

RIGHT: Raney Wilson, Rick Mauch and John Johnson rehearse for Weatherford College’s production of ‘To Kill a Mockingbird” in the spring of 2011.

TOP: CHRISTOPHER AMOS BOTTOM: RANDY KECK

“Over the last two years, I’ve seen hundreds of students turned away because they can’t get into core courses that already are filled to capacity,” he said. “These new classrooms and labs will allow us to schedule more sections of those core courses, and we won’t lose as many students that need those classes to graduate.”

The college offers certification and two-year degrees in a wide variety of career paths and evening and distance learning courses to accommodate working schedules. A Tech Prep program allows high school students to begin earning credits before the graduate and continuing education programs are catered toward working professionals.

A full student catalog is available online at www.wc.edu.

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

Breaking ground in April 2011 on the new $22.3 million expansion at Weatherford Regional Medical Center were (from left) Parker County Hospital District CEO Randall Young, Former Chief of Staff Jon Paul Harmer, M.D., Chief Nursing Officer Donna Boone, Hospital CEO Cory Countryman, Division II President of Community Health Systems Michael Portacci, Weatherford Economic Development Authority Executive Director Dennis Clayton and County Judge Mark Riley.

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Visit us at: 211 York Ave. Weatherford, TX 817.599.6066 Mon-Sat 10:30a-5:30p

Location Map

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34 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

HOMETOWN HERO Casey James’ American Idol experience becomes a springboard to realizing his dreams When Casey James performs, one thing, beyond a shadow of a doubt, is true.

He loves what he does.

For those of us who don’t know one end of a guitar from another, it is a wonder to watch what happens when the young star picks up one of several guitars and starts playing.

Lights aren’t really necessary.

Photos by Randy Keck The Community News

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

35

FOR THE LOVE OF IT ◗ Casey James loves

the guitar – and it shows

By Katie Martinez and Randy Keck The Community News

Casey James put Cool, Texas on the map in a big way, and what better hometown for a music star?

The singer/songwriter has come a long way from his garage band days after gaining national publicity finishing in the final three on season nine of “American Idol,” which led to a Fort Worth parade in James’ honor sponsored.

He has spent the last year on tour, first with “American Idol Live” and then a series of shows with Sugarland. He performed at the after-party of the Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas and the 2011 Country Music Awards Fest in Nashville.

In August of 2010, James signed a recording contract with Sony Music Nashville and his debut single, “Let’s Don’t Call it a Night” sold 5,000 copies in the first week of its release in August of 2011.

His album, which James largely wrote himself, was scheduled to be released in late 2011, and he describes it as blues/ rock/country, true to his style.

It’s been a whirlwind of lights, tours, interviews and screaming fans, and the best part of it all, he said, is that he is living a dream come true.

Playing music is his passion, and always has been. Even before he could talk, James’ mother said he was humming tunes.

Now his hard work and dedication are paying off, but it almost didn’t happen.

In 2004, James was taking his new motorcycle out for a spin when he was hit by another vehicle driving in excess of 75 miles per hour.

The crash broke his thigh bone in four places and shattered his left wrist.

James was in a wheelchair for six months after doctors inserted a titanium rod in his leg. He endured months of painful rehabilitation therapy, but the biggest blow of all came when doctors told the family that James’ injuries to his wrist were so severe that he would never be able to play the guitar again.

James never accepted defeat, and he would not give up on his passion.

“You just do it – you make a way” - Casey James Over a long process of rehabilitation, James worked his hand and pushed himself to form chords. In the beginning he could only endure a few minutes because the pain was so excruciating.

His mother would massage the muscles in his hand and he would try again, and again and again.

He performed in July, 2011 at Billy Bob’s in Fort Worth, and it was there he shed some light on his music career to The Community News.

To say he was born with a guitar in is hand may be stretching the truth, but he was at least familiar with the instrument not long after.

“Looking back now I find pictures of myself when I was a baby holding a guitar, so I didn’t realize I started at that young an age. Me and my mom used to sing Christmas tunes for the whole family for years and years. I guess about 13 or 14, I picked up an acoustic and started learning chords and went from there,” James said.

Turn to JAMES, page 36

36 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

Overcoming adversity

JAMES

When he was asked what inspired or motivated him to continue playing the guitar when doctors told him he could not, Casey replied that “It was not an option.”

“Think about all the amazing people and all the crazy things like going to the moon. I guarantee you anybody who said ‘I’m going to go to the moon,’ everybody would have said, ‘you’re crazy.’”

“You just do it – you make a way. It was not an option. It was something I loved so much that if I had to I would have played with my feet.”

The answer reveals the difference between a performer and an artist, and the difference was evident when he was asked what advice he would give to a youngster starting out on the guitar.

“I can honestly say just to follow your heart, because I know a lot of people that have a lot of money, and money does not create happiness. It’s doing what you love that makes you happy,” James said.

“Even before now when I was down the street doing shows for 10 or 15 people – I was making 30 bucks a night and I was the happiest dude

from page 35 While his mother is also an accomplished guitar player, Casey was not aware of that when he first took up the instrument.

“Really we just sang at church.

Mom played the piano and I didn’t really know she was such an amazing guitar player and musician until I started playing, and then everybody just restarted their stuff, and that was kind of cool to be a sort of catalyst in that.

I won’t take credit for it, because who knows what would have happened. It definitely got us all back going again.”

It is difficult to pin Casey James down to a given music genre, and that could be due to his inspirations, who come from a variety of places.

“You can’t not say Freddie King and Stevie Ray because they’re Texas guys, and there are so many local musicians that I really love to listen to. There’s a lot of guys I really look up to musically,” he said.

F

that you’d meet – and that comes from doing what you love.”

Sitting in the dressing room at Billy Bob’s, waiting for show time, the question was asked.

Are you happy now?

“Heck, yeah.”

“I’m about to play at Billy Bob’s. To think that many people paid money – didn’t just happen to be there, and I don’t even have an album out – wanted to come and see me play and listen to me sing – that kind of thing just makes me so grateful for everything.”

While Parker County is happy to share Casey James with the rest of the world, chances are that some day he may return home to Cool.

“I don’t get back to Parker County as much as I would like to, but today’s been a great day. I think eventually I’ll be back in my house, or maybe get a bigger place.”

In the mean time, Casey James will be taking Cool – the values he learned from his mother and his home, the talents he developed, and the love he has for playing the guitar – to a bigger world that we can only hope is listening not just to the music, but to the man.

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2011-2012

37

High School Sports Aledo Aledo continued a strong winning tradition in football, repeating as the 4A Division II state champions in 2010.

Running back Johnathan Gray scored eight touchdowns in the state championship game against LaMarque, giving him the Texas all-time record for most touchdowns scored in a season with 59.

Gray is in striking distance his senior season to surpass other records, including career rushing touchdowns and career 100-plus yard games.

In volleyball, Aledo coach Kathy Goings’ team recorded its 400th win under her guidance, and advanced to the regional tournament, where they lost to eventual state champion Canyon Randall.

Aledo’s fall tennis team also advanced to the regional tournament.

The girls basketball team made it to the area championship before falling to Stephenville.

The Bearcat boys golf team finished fifth at the state tournament, while the Ladycats softball team advanced to the regional quarterfinal. Baseball advanced to the area championship game.

In spring tennis, the boys doubles team of Taylor Dedeke and Rob Raines fell just short of qualifying for the state tennis tournament.

In swimming, Kira Schlosberg advanced to the state meet in the 200 IM, and the 100-yard breaststroke and placed 5th at the state meet.

The Bearcat soccer team went two levels into the playoffs, and the Ladycat soccer team was bi-district champion. Both teams are coached by Derek Vierling.

Aledo sent five qualifiers to the state track tournament. Jonathan Gray placed 4th at the state meet in the 100m dash.

Brock The Lady Eagles walked away with the Division 2A state championship title in basketball, continuing an incredibly strong tradition. The Lady Eagles have appeared in the tournament game six times in the past 10 years.

The Eagles lost to Melissa High School in the Division 2A regionalquarterfinal matchup. The basketball program on the whole passed a milestone as the boys basketball program celebrated its 100th anniversary.

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

All eyes will be on Aledo running back Johnathan Gray in the 2011 football season. The Texas Longhorn recruit holds the state record for most touchdowns in a season, and is within striking distance of several others.

After their state runner-up performance last year, softball made a good show, losing to City View in the regional quarterfinal. Linsey Hays, who will attend Baylor, was also selected to the UIL All-Star team in addition to rising senior Rylee White.

Baseball also advanced far into the playoffs, barely losing the regional final to Palmer, and the team also produced two all-star awardees, Ryan Burden and Coleman Bowden.

In the state championship for track

and field, Kamy Cole took away her third consecutive gold medal in the 1600 meter race. Cole, who has won seven UIL gold medals during her high school career, is now attending Oklahoma University.

At the regional competition for track and field, Brock also gave a strong performance. Kelly Clark qualified for the 1600 meter run, and Jaylan Neatherland qualified for womens’ 200m dash. Kambrie Shoush qualified in 800m.

In cross country, Brock had a strong performance, and sent seven runners to the state meet. Kelly Clark led the team, placing 43rd, with teammates Coltin Green (56), Conner Blanton (57), Lane Southern (75), Troy Faulkner (86), Keith Steel (94) and Devin Lowe (102) rounding out the run. At the regional meet, Clark placed 16th and Kamy Cole placed 10th on the Girls’ side with Bailey Barksdale (18) and Kambrie Shoush (24) scoring high in the field as well.

Turn to SPORTS, page 38

38 2011-20129

SPORTS from page 37

In tennis, Adam Lessner made it to the state quarterfinals in boys singles, and Ryan Burden and Devin Lowe advanced to the state semifinals in boys doubles. Siera Potts and Amy Hernard also qualified for state in girls doubles.

Millsap In football, Millsap had a middling season with a 2-4 league record and 46 overall. Casey Aaron stood out as he qualified for the all-state football team as a first-team defensive back.

In cross country, the Millsap Bulldogs produced two regional qualifiers: rising juniors Bobby Nolen and Daulton Thomas.

Golf garnered second place as a team with 2011 graduate Zeb Littlefield placing third in district individually and also earning the title of regional qualifier.

Track and field produced four regional qualifiers, with rising juniors Bobby Nolen and Daulton Thomas qualifying for 3200m and 800m respectively. Rising senior Daymen Hinrichs was a regional qualifier in shot put as well. However, the most accolades were given to 2011 graduate Kyle Gooch who was a state qualifier and won fourth place in discus and fifth place in shot put. Gooch also was the district champion in both events and the regional champion in the discus.

Rising senior Daymen Hinrichs also placed second at the Powerlifting state meet in the Division III 275 lb weight class.

In tennis, rising seniors Gabe Knight and Josh Jones took home the title of district boys doubles champions and rising senior Pedro Ibarra and Sina Kielkopf earned the title of district mixed doubles champions.

The Millsap baseball team placed third in district and was a bi-district finalist.

The Lady Bulldogs had a good year for softball and individual track and field placement.

The Millsap girls’ softball team made the playoffs but lost in the first round to City View, finishing third in the district overall. Standout athletes included pitcher Jessi Andersen and freshman catcher Maddie Edwards catcher who also was awarded MVP with the highest batting average and most RBIs. In cross country, Haley Younger qualified for regionals, and in tennis, Nicole Lee qualified for regionals as well.

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In track and field, Millsap made a good show with Shay Douglas and Stormy Howell placing first and third in district shot put. Brittany Coman placed second in long jump and third in triple jump with teammate Heather Clark placing second in triple jump as well. Perla Orduna was a standout athlete, breaking the Millsap school record for the mile with a time of 5:43.07. which garnered her third place in district; Orduna also placed third in the 3200m. In addition to Haley Younger’s cross-country success, she also placed third in the 800m.

Peaster Peaster had a good show in volleyball with the team advancing to the area level.

Basketball had a decent season as well especially with powerhouse Brock in the same division and region – the girls’ team had a positive W-L record and the boys team had a good year.

In track and field, Peaster sent several athletes to regional competition, but a competitive region forbade advancement to state. Individual standouts were Maxwell Dixon, who qualified for the long jump; Mary Allen, who showed diversity as she qualified for the long jump, triple jump and the 100 m dash; and Libby Lasley in 3200 meter run, and Audrey Dillard in discus.

In cross country, Libby Lasley placed 20th in the girls division. David Buchannan (44), Ivan Karabanoff (72), Jacob Taylor (119), Jon Wyatt (122), Nick Holloway (123), Micah Kirk (124) and Trace Gustafson (155) rounded out the boys’ performance at the regional meet.

Poolville The Lady Monarchs earned the title of area champions in volleyball before being defeated by Windthorst 3-0. In the all-district awards for the sport, Lauren Scott, Lauren Metts and Taylor Scroggins received honorable mentions, second team honors went to Bailey Duvall and first team went to Lindsey Matthews and Hannah Rhine.

Alex Layton came away with Newcomer of the Year and Heather Henson walked away with Blocker of the Year.

Poolville basketball faced a challenging season, but the Monarchs met with a measure of success in boys basketball, advancing to the area level before a loss against Hubbard. Rising senior Vince Rodriguez will be a player to watch out for in the coming year as he has led the team in scoring through the past season.

SPECIAL TO THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Weatherford’s baseball team was nationally-ranked in the spring of 2011.

In tennis, Vince Rodriguez and Ian Dobbs made it all the way to the final match of the boys doubles event at the state championships and only were defeated by Andy Duarte and Trey Schwertner of Mason.

In cross country, Poolville continued its domination of the district meet, with Alex Rodriguez taking first place and the whole team earning the top title as well. Alex Rodrieguez placed 37th at the regional meet, with Justin Wyman (56), Greg Goodwin (64), Austin Bridges (72), Tim Burd (82), Jonah Lackey (89), and Eugene Ellison (98) giving a consistent team performance

Springtown In football, Springtown made it to the playoffs with a 5-2-league record before losing to Southwest. Star players included Brandon Emmert, Billy Chappell, TJ Bradley, Bryson Burtnett, Jacob Whiteman, Trevor Winstead, and Bradley Boyette.

Brooklyn Horton made the all-state basketball team and helped lead the team past Arlington Heights into the area game. Soccer did not advance in the playoffs, although volleyball had a good performance, earning the bi-district champion title and advancing to area.

In track and field, Kendal Davis qualified for the state meet in high jump; Davis also holds the honor of being the first district gold medalist in that event from Springtown. In the district meet, Kaitie Evans was a regional qualifier in discus. Brandon Emmert, who also plays for the football team, won a gold medal in district as well for the high jump and advanced to regionals. Emmert also was a runner in the 4x400 relay along with Ian

Bickel, Billy Chappell, and Will Sutton.

Wrapping up the district success was Bryson Burtnett, who qualified in the 110m hurdles.

In swimming, Christen Johnson placed second in the regional competition in the 50 yard freestyle and third in the 100 yard freestyle.

Weatherford The Kangaroos faced a tough football season, walking away with a 1-7 league record and a 1-10 record overall.

The Kangaroos varsity softball team continued a strong softball tradition by advancing to the regional semifinal before losing the series to the Plano Wildcats.

Jordan Wallace, one of the team’s strongest players and four-year starter, is attending the University of Louisiana—Lafayette to play softball there. Kangaroo baseball also had an all-star in Kevin Cornelius, who was selected to play in the 5A state team; the team made it to the area game before losing to Franklin.

In boys’ and girls’ basketball, Weatherford faced a tough district and finished up the season in the bottom half of the district.

In track and field, the best performers were Nick Farmer, who placed 10th in the long jump at the regional competition, and the 4x800 relay team comprised of Jake Bailey, Jordan Dimmons, Miller Jarrell and Nathan Collier who placed eighth.

In cross country, Weatherford met with success as Nathan Collier placed 52nd at the regional track meet and the Girls’ team sent Rachel Park, Mackinsey Flores, Skylar White, Scarlett Ferguson, Chandler Lacefield, and Alanah Meeks, the whole team placing 23rd overall.

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

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2011-2012

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Churches

Agnes Baptist Church

All Saints Episcopal Church

Bethesda United Methodist

Brock Baptist Church

350 Agnes N Springtown, Texas 76082-5044 817-523-7271 www.agnesbaptist.com

125 South Waco St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-8734

6657 FM 113 North Weatherford, Texas 76088 940-682-7339

2111 FM 1189 Brock, Texas 76087 817-596-7944

Annetta United Methodist Church

Better Life Community Church

Brock United Methodist Church

2836 West Farm Road 5 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-599-7950

3607 E Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-677-2300

127 Lazy Bend Road Brock, Texas 76087 817-613-0332

Baker Baptist Church

Beulah Baptist Church

1912 Baker Cut Off Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-594-3490

350 Beulah Road Millsap, Texas 76066 817-341-2102

Calvary United Methodist Church

Bethel Baptist Church

Brazos Trails Cowboy Church

201 Kathey St. Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-594-3018

3400 Mineral Wells Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-996-0094 817-594-9828 (Pastor David Wills) kcdwills@vrfmail.com

Aledo Christian Center 241 North Front St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-9062 817-441-7357 (School) www.aledochristianschool.org

Aledo Church of Christ 201 FM Road 1187 South Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8074 www.aledochurchofchrist.com

Aledo United Methodist 100 Pecan St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8329 www.aledoumc.org

Bethel Baptist Church 408 S Ash St Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-4238

210 Garner Road Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-5215

Centerpoint Baptist Church 1003 Center Point Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-3139 www.centerpointbc.com

42 2011-2012

Your Parker County

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Centerpoint Church of God 102 Center Point Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-594-5500

Central Baptist Church 4260 Old Agnes Road Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-594-5918

Central Christian Church 1602 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-3053 www.welcometothetable.net

Christ Church West Meets at Clear Fork Station Banquet Hall 4971 E. I-20 Willow Park, Texas 76087

Christ the King Covenant Church 2800 Tin Top Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 2316 Hwy. 180 West Mineral Wells, Texas 76087 817-594-8720 www.ckcchome.org

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Oak Ridge Church of Christ in Willow Park expanded its facility in 2011.

Cross Timbers Baptist Church

First United Methodist Church of Springtown

6505 Fm 920 Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-599-7759

109 West 3rd St. Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-7874

Faith Presbyterian Church of East Parker County

First United Methodist Church of Weatherford

201 Case St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-7722

301 Bailey Ranch Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6262 www.faithaledo.com

301 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-4231 www.fumcweatherfoRoadorg

Community Christian Church

First Baptist Church of Aledo

Fundamental Baptist Church

2 Dean Drive Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-7393 www.cccaledo.org

128 Elm St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8885 www.fbcaledo.com

433 N Main St. Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-5477 www.fbcspringtown.com

Cool Assembly of God Church

First Baptist Church of Springtown

Grace Community Fellowship

Church of Christ at Tin Top 320 Old Tin Top Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-599-6382

Church of Christ Case and Spring

10499 Mineral Wells Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76088 940-682-4401 www.coolassemblyofgod.com

Cornerstone Community Church

500 N Main St Springtown, Texas 76082-2102 817-220-5229 www.firstbaptistspringtown.com

First Baptist Church of Weatherford

2233 E Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-677-3514

306 Palo Pinto St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-5457 www.fbcweatherfoRoadorg

Couts United Methodist Church

First Baptist Church of Willow Park

802 North Elm St. Weatherford, Texas 817-599-860 www.coutsmethodistchurch.com

601 Ranch House Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-441-7170 www.fbcwillowpark.com

111 West Ranch Lane Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-599-9173

Hilltop Family Church 1227 Cottondale Road Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-7177

Holy Redeemer Catholic Church 16250 Old Weatherford Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-3500

Hope Lutheran Church 4795 E Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082-7381 817-221-4673

Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church 200 South Lakeshore Drive Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-0100 www.lakeshorebaptist.com

Grace First Presbyterian Church

Light of the World United Methodist Church

606 Mockingbird Lane Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-2744 www.gracefirstpc.org

102 Elm St. Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-832-6250 www.lightoftheworldumc.com

Grace House Ministries

Midway Baptist Church

P. O. Box 1416 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-9080

4110 E Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082-7244 817-221-5683

Greenwood Baptist Church

Midway Church Of Chirst

1504 Greenwood Cutoff Road Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-596-8302

6400 Midway Road Springtown, Texas 76082-7303 817-221-2107

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Your Parker County

New Hope Baptist Church 107 S. Bowie Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-9801

New River Fellowship 3252 East I-20, Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-341-7970 www.NewRiver.tv

Saint Francis Episcopal Church

1302 North Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-6896

43

Providence Reformed Episcopal Church 405 South Bowie Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-1590 www.providencerec.com

North Main Church of Christ

2011-2012

117 Ranch House Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-9156 www.stfranciswillowpark.org

South Main Church of Christ

North Side Baptist Church 910 North Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-8612 www.nsbcweatherfoRoadcom

201 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-3030

South Side Baptist Christ

Oak Ridge Baptist Church 310 North Oak Ridge Drive Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-613-1580 www.oakridgebc.com

1115 S. Brazos St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-0799 www.ssbcweatherfoRoadcom

Spring Creek Baptist Church

Oak Ridge Church of Christ 4895 East I-20 Service Road North Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-1875 www.oakridgechurch.org

Outreach Of Love Assembly Of God 3591 E Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082-6834 817-221-2983 www.olcconnect.com

Parker County Cowboy Church 5050 South Hwy. 5 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-925-0910

100 Spring Creek Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-594-3707

Springtown Church of Christ

811 McClendon Walker Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6306

The Living Way Ministries

Victory Baptist Church

416 Hwy. 80 West, Willow Park, Texas 76087

1311 East Bankhead Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-7421 www.victorybaptistchurch.net

The Summit (A Fellowship of St. Paul Lutheran Church)

316 Church St. Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-4419

111 Maverick St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8707 www.the-summit.org

The Episcopal Church in Parker County

Trinity Bible Church

2 Dean Drive Aledo, Texas 76008 817-637-0846 www.episcopalchurchpc.org

The Fellowship at Weatherford

Primitive Baptist Church

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

First United Methodist Church of Springtown.

2721 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-5743 www.thefellowshipaw.com

Weatherford Church of Christ 202 West Ranch Court Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-594-0910

4936 East I-20 Access Road South Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-7477 www.trinitybible.com

Weatherford Presbyterian Church 204 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-1277

Trinity Lutheran Church

Wheatland Baptist Church

1500 West Ball St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-613-1939 www.trinityweatherfoRoadorg

15910 Hwy. 377 South Fort Worth, Texas 76126 817-443-6063

Willow Park Baptist Church 129 South Ranch House Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-1596 www.willowparkbaptist.org

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44 2011-2012

Your Parker County

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Social Services RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

The Hemispherectomy Foundation hosts a 5k run every year in Weatherford. The foundation provides services to families all over the United States whose children have radical brain surgery.

AIDS Resources of Rural Texas 250 Santa Fe Drive Suite 101 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-3022 Fax: 817-596-0900 E-mail: tmcgee@aidsresources.com www.aidsresource.com

Aledo Children’s Advocats 817-341-0777

Aledo Children’s Advocats’ Clothes Closet 9901 East Bankhead Hwy., Suite B, Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-2707 Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

American Red Cross Parker County 1740 Bethel Road Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-4516 Chisholmtrail.redcross.org

Center of Hope (Aledo)

Freedom House

Hemispherectomy Foundation

9901 East Bankhead Hwy., Suites C and D Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-2442 Hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5-8 p.m.

Michelle Buchanan (director)

167 College Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-7543 24 Hour Hotline: 817-596-8922 Fax: 817-596-4369 Contact: Catherine Tietjen ctfh@sbcglobal.net

P.O. Box 1239 Aledo, Texas 76008 hemifoundation.org

Center of Hope (Weatherford) 629 Palo Pinto St. Suite D Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-0266 Hours: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Parker County 200 Palo Pinto St., Suite 107 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-6224

United Way 106 Austin Ave., Suite 108 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-5986

Goodwill Store 1801 South Main Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-613-0825

Grace House Pregnancy Assistance Center 112 West Russell St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-4700

The Haven Youth counseling and mentoring 318 West Spring St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-304-7472 Contact: Jeff Johnson (Program Director)

Weatherford Access Center 220 Fort Worth Hwy., Suite 125 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-374-7911 Fax: 817-599-6309 Carol.cook@psysolutions.com

Youth Emergency Shelter 808 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-7543

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

45

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Clubs

Aledo Community Lions Club P.O. Box 26 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-9053

Bush Legacy Republican Women P.O. Box 2002 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-694-2467 www.blrww.com

Business Development Group of Aledo P.O. Box 1565, Aledo, Texas 76008 Steve Bartley - Aledo National Bank 817-441-5200 www.bdgofaledo.com

East Parker County Genealogy & Historical Society P.O. Box 223 Aledo, Texas 76008 Meets at 101 Stagecoach Trail, Willow Park 817-233-4322 www.epcghs.org

SPECIAL TO THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Weatherford Rotary Club members (from left) Ben Sasin, Steve Roberson, Martin Talley, Larry Hammonds and Pat Hamilton flip pancakes for the Weatherford Rotary Club’s annual pancake supper, which is traditionally held in February.

MOM’s Club of Aledo and Willow Park 817-598-0231 awpmomsclub@gmail.com www.pcmg-texas.org

Community Christian Church (Aledo) (Disciples of Christ) “We are Disciples of Christ. As part of the one body of Christ, we welcome all to the Lord’s Table as God has welcomed us.”

CHAD BAGLEY Financial Advisor

(817) 441-4108

311 S FM Road 1187 Suite 100 Aledo, TX 76008

2 Dean Dr. Aledo, TX 76008 817-441-7393 c3aledo@yahoo.com www.cccaledo.org

Custom Cleaners Adrian’s Quality Dry Cleaner “We do it all, we do it right” FORT WORTH

ALEDO

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46 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

NAACP, Weatherford/Parker County Branch

Parker County Christian Home Educators

Parker County Republican Women

The Gluten Intolerance Group of North Texas

B. J. Thomas 817-599-3528

www.parkercountyhomeschool.org

www.parkercorepublicanwomen.org

www.northtexasgig.com

Parker County Democratic Party

Parker County Sheriff’s Posse

Weatherford Optimist Club

107 N. Alamo St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-8683 www.parkercodemocrats.org

Bob Glenn 2251 Mineral Wells Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-598-5402 www.parkercountysheriffsposse.com

Native Plant Society of Texas Eileen Porter 817-596-5567

Parker County 4-H Kayle Neill 604 N. Main St., Suite 200 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6172 parker-tx.tamu.edu

Parker County Heritage Society P.O. Box 97 Weatherford, Texas 76086

Parker County A&M Club http://parkercomoms.aggienetwork.com

Parker County Master Gardener Association

Parker County Active Democrats

604 North Main, Suite 200 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6168

113 Kingswood Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-694-2261 Meets at 321 S Main, Weatherford

Parker County Amateur Radio Club Meets at 701 Narrow St. Weatherford, Texas www.w5pc.org

Parker County Republican Party One Austin Ave. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-5029 www.parkercotxgop.org

sites.google.com/site/ weatherfordoptimist

Weatherford Noon Lions Club weatherfordnoontx.lionwap.org

Weatherford Rotary Club

Parker County Texas Democratic Women Freda Burks 817-220-0191 www.tdw.org/ParkerCountyTDW/

Pioneer Square Dance Club 1602 S Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76008 817-594-1258

Meets at Doss Heritage & Culture Center 1400 Texas Drive Weatherford, TX 76086 www.weatherfordrotary.org

Weatherford Stage Performers weatherfordstage@ont.com 817-594-5596

Quilters Guild of Parker County

Weatherford Toastmasters

PO Box 2022 Weatherford, TX 76086 bob.andreaK@hotmail.com www.quiltersguildofparkercounty.org/a/

Meets every Tuesday 7:30 p.m.

Central Christian Church Weatherford, Texas 76086 weatherford.freetoasthost.ws

Zonta Club Springtown Lions Club

www.zontaparkercounty.org

817-523-4129

Home of Beautiful Smiles

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www.crainortho.com

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

47

AN INVENTIVE APPROACH ◗ At Careity Foundation,

“groundbreaking” is simply business as usual.

Thinking outside the box?

There is no box.

By Susan McKeague Karnes The Community News

Careity Foundation, founded by Parker County residents and longtime friends, Lyn Walsh and Beverly Branch, is perhaps best known for Celebrity Cutting and Branded, events that have raised millions of dollars for Careity’s programs and services.

Yet as it generously funds pediatric palliative care and provides supportive clinical services for underserved cancer patients, it’s Careity Foundation’s inventive approach and unique business model that increasingly set it apart from traditional nonprofit organizations.

Soon after its inception in 2003, Careity Foundation shattered the status quo in the cancer community as the first nonprofit in the nation to provide oncology massage in the chemo-

WHAT’S NEW: FASTER ANSWERS AND CARE Careity Breast Care Centers, featuring an innovative, inter-disciplinary approach to patient care, opened in 2011 in The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Huguley Medical Center in Fort Worth and adjoining Dr. Amy Gunter’s office at Solis Women’s Health in Weatherford.

“Careity Breast Care Centers employ a ‘Circle of Care” concept, in which the patient has a consultation with her specialists on the same day,” Walsh says. “She meets privately and individually with her surgeon, medical oncologist and radiation oncologist.”

Typically, a newly diagnosed patient is burdened with juggling lots of different office visits, Walsh says. “This improves the flow of communication and places the patient first.”

Patients also enjoy the individualized care of a cancer navigator who helps each patient through her diagnosis and treatment.

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Parker County residents Lyn Walsh and Beverly Branch, founders of Careity Foundation, provide services for pediatric palliative patients and underserved cancer patients. The pair is known for initiating several groundbreaking programs recognized as the first in the nation.

therapy room. The practice, then considered unconventional, is now widely embraced by oncologists and venerable clinics.

“Cancer patients lack touch,” says Walsh of her decision to integrate massage into chemo appointments. “The power of touch is absolutely amazing.

And importantly, oncology massage eases pain and nausea.”

That sort of independent thinking, says Branch, is what initiated a recent innovative project, one that elicited impressive kudos.

In 2009, Careity Day was born.

Believed to be the first private initiative of its kind in the U.S., Careity Day is a mammogram drive with an astounding twist: Any participant diagnosed with breast cancer during her screening is given a pledge of cost-free care, from biopsy to surgery and through treatment.

There’s no traffic jam on the extra mile.

one event in Parker County to include Careity Days in Tarrant and Johnson counties.

“Think about it,” Walsh told report- A plaque above Beverly ers at the time. “If you can’t afford a Branch’s desk.

Hundreds of women who lacked adequate health insurance underwent Careity Day screenings. Governor Perry, U. S. Rep. Kay Granger and State Rep. Phil King sent warm congratulations or issued proclamations.

And under Walsh’s direction, with critical support from community partners – like Parker County’s The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Dr. Amy Gunter, Parker County Health Foundation, Solis Women’s Health of Weatherford, Moncrief Cancer Institute and Weatherford Regional Medical Center — the scope expanded from

mammogram, what are you going to do if you’re diagnosed with cancer?

Treatment’s out of reach.”

Branch cites Careity Day as a typical example of her business partner’s approach.

“I tell people that Lyn doesn’t think outside the box – she doesn’t have a box.”

Besides that box, Walsh doesn’t have another traditional element of nonprofit organizations: a cumbersome board of directors. Instead, the foundation’s small board utilizes an active advisory board of esteemed physicians who share Walsh and Branch’s passion for serving patients.

Turn to CAREITY, page 48

48 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Bev Branch, Vickie Vernon and Lyn Walsh of the Careity Foundation are shown at a mobile mammography truck sponsored by their organization. Careity Foundation, with additional funding from a Parker County Health Foundation (PCHF) grant, provides more mammograms in Parker County than any other charitable group. “Parker County Health Foundation is proud to provide a grant to support Careity Foundation in providing local residents with mammography screenings,” says Zan Prince, a PCHF board member.

“Careity Foundation provides a myriad of critical services in the battle against cancer, has saved countless lives and improved our approach to cancer in Parker County.”

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CAREITY FOUNDATION? In the spirit of promoting impactful voluntarism, Walsh and Branch plan to launch an annual celebration that will showcase the work of advocates, volunteers and leaders who contribute to the community’s quality of life.

Committee co-chairs Evon Markum of First National Bank Weatherford and Donna Dickenson of Jerry’s Auto Group are organizing the event, which will encourage groups and companies in Parker County to nominate a colleague for special recognition at the event.

CAREITY from page 47 After many years of successful fundraising, Branch and Walsh created Careity Foundation in 2003 and aimed their formidable experience at patients with limited financial or clinical resources. Every dollar raised is frugally expended – and every dollar stays in North Texas.

Today, Careity Foundation is dedicated to two initiatives: Funding pediatric palliative care, and providing individualized services (nutritional supplements and counseling, feeding tubes, mammograms and more) for economically-challenged cancer patients in North Texas through a holistic approach to care.

Signature events presented by Careity Foundation support the group’s efforts. Branded, a Western chic style show that kicks off the rodeo season in August, raises funds for the

pediatric palliative care program at Cook Children’s, which serves children and families throughout North Texas. Celebrity Cutting, held during the fall NCHA Futurity, attracts stars like Tanya Tucker, Billy Ray Cyrus, Brad Paisley, Bob Kingsley, Joe Montana and Betty Buckley to support Careity Foundation’s services for economically challenged cancer patients in the Tarrant, Parker and Johnson County areas.

Kay Granger has known the two women for years; Walsh serves on the congresswoman’s Hispanic Advisory Council. “Lyn Walsh and Beverly Branch are two of the most giving women I have ever known. Their response to ‘Can you do this?’ is always ‘yes,’” she said recently. “The Careity Foundation’s outreach to detect and care for women with breast cancer is really an unprecedented program.

Talent, caring, ‘can do’ spirit. Lyn and Beverly have it all.”

ABOUT CAREITY FOUNDATION Careity Foundation is dedicated to providing effective, personalized and accessible services for economicallychallenged cancer and pediatric palliative care patients in North Texas.

Signature events presented by Careity Foundation support the group’s two initiatives. Branded, a Western chic style show held in August, raises funds for the pediatric palliative care program at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth. The foundation was instrumental in the establishing the program, which serves children and families throughout North Texas. Celebrity Cutting, held during the fall NCHA Futurity, attracts stars like Tanya Tucker, Brad Paisley, Bob Kingsley, Joe Montana and Betty Buckley to support Careity Foundation’s services for economically challenged cancer patients in the Tarrant, Parker and Johnson County areas.

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

At Cook Children’s, the palliative care program treats children with lifethreatening illnesses and is largely dependent on philanthropy. “Careity Foundation has consistently been the primary/largest philanthropic donor,” says Dr. Todd Pearson, medical director of the program that Careity was instrumental in establishing. “Quite frankly, I’m not sure the program would exist if it were not for Careity.”

The legendary female vocalist Tanya Tucker is a close friend and frequent participant in Celebrity Cutting. “Lyn and Beverly are genuinely good people,” she says. “They do so much good that they make you want to be a part of it, that’s for sure.”

49

Council, Walsh served two years as chair of the East Parker County Chamber of Commerce. Branch is vice president of her family’s 102-year-old business, Branch-Smith Printing in Fort Worth.

The secret of their success, the two say, is balancing the demands of business and community through mutual respect, a resilient friendship, clear understanding of responsibilities— Walsh oversees most planning, Branch handles most logistics—and a strong sense of humor.

“Lyn sees opportunities so far ahead, and she usually hits home runs. That’s why we teamed up well—she’s free to think, and I’m free to figure out how to make it happen,” Branch laughs.

•••••••••• Amid the demands of running Careity Foundation, Branch and Walsh also own and manage Dromeo, Inc., which produces a line of spa-quality natural products. Actively involved in the community, both women are members of the United Way Women’s Leadership Council, NCHA, area chambers of commerce, and more. In addition to her service on Granger’s Hispanic Advisory

LEFT: The annual Celebrity Cutting is one of Careity Foundation’s signature events.

The other major annual event is Branded, a western chic fashion show held each August.

For more information about the Careity Foundation, visit www. careity.org.

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Aledo Christian Center

241 N. Front St.

817-441-9062

Locally Owned & Operated Over 20 years experience

“It’s Time to Hear the Difference.”

817-263-1971 www.Chappell-Audiology.net 4736 Bryant Irvin #702 • Fort Worth, TX 76132

Spirit-Filled, Bible-Based Sunday Service 10:30

50 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

Senior Services Weatherford Senior Center (administered by the Parker County Committee on Aging)” P.O. Box 817 1225 Holland Lake Drive, Weatherford, Texas 76086 Phone: 817-596-4640 Personal Contact: Glenda Webb

Department of Family and Protective Services 4113 Hwy. 180 East Suite B, Mineral Wells, Texas 76067 940-325-6959 24-Hour Hotline: 1-800-252-5400

Experience Works Workforce Solutions for North Central Texas 126 College Park Drive Weatherford, Texas 76008 817-594-0049 x 4112 garnette_blanton@experienceworks.org

Legal Hotline for Older Texans 800-622-2520

Texas Department of Aging & Disability Services Santa Fe Health & Rehab Center 1205 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 Director: Joleann Beene 817-594-2786

Texas Department of Aging & Disability Services Weatherford College 225 College Park Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 Director: Tammy Whittlesey 817-598-6409 SPECIAL TO THE COMMUNITY NEWS

From left: 2011 Ms. Senior Parker County Carmen Ashby, Master of Ceremonies Mark Riley, 1st Runner-up Carla Kerr, 2nd Runner-up Donna DeGrand, 3rd Runnerup Katherine Russ

Fort Worth Tree & Pest Specialists Protecting Homes Inside & Out with...

Aledo Family Owned and Operated

by Randy and Jamie Bevis

817-441-2276

~Residential and Commercial Pest Control

~~ Certified Arborist ~~ Texas Certified Pest Applicator ~~ Texas Oak Wilt Certified

By Texas Forestry Service

TEXAS PEST CONTROL ASSOCIATION

~Insect & Disease Control for Trees, Turf and Landscape ~ Fire Ant Treatment ~ Oak Wilt Prevention ~ Deep Root Fertilization

Parker County Builders Association A Chapter of the Greater Fort Worth Builders Association

PCEA

Member of the Chamber of Commerce

708 Palo Pinto St. | Weatherford

817-599-4200 www.parkercountyÀooring.com

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

51

SERVICES FROM THE PARKER COUNTY COMMITTEE ON AGING Call the PCCOA for information: 817-596-4640 – Opportunities provided to Parker County residents ages 60-plus from the Parker County Committee on Aging

• CASE MANAGEMENT Administered from the Weatherford Senior Center to participants throughout Parker County, this service provides individual assessment, arranging of necessary care and services, ongoing monitoring of client’s status and periodic revision of the overall service plan.

• INFORMATION AND REFERRAL An ongoing program providing senior adults and their advocates or caregivers with concrete information about public and voluntary services and resources available to them.

• PREVENTATIVE HEALTH Emergency assistance to purchase prescription medications, pay utility bills and install mobility devices and wheelchair ramps.

• BOOST AND ENSURE Liquid nutritional products available to clients at reduced prices

• TELEPHONE REASSURANCE Daily calls from the Senior Center to homebound individuals to assure their safety and wellbeing.

• SENIOR CENTER Open five days a week, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Center provides recreation, physical fitness, personal improvement and positive thinking to help seniors remain active.

It also provides periodic services such as immunizations, tax preparation, health screenings and educational speakers.

• MEALS ON WHEELS Delivered five days a week to homebound elderly who are unable to prepare their own meals or who lack family, friends or other community resources. These meals also meet 1/3 RDA requirements.

• TRANSPORTATION Available Monday through Friday, this service offers reduced rates for trips to pharmacies, grocers, doctors’ offices and to the Senior Center.

• CONGREGATE MEALS Served five days a week in a congregate setting at the Weatherford Senior Center, these meals meet 1/3 of the RDA requirements for senior adults.

The Anderson Private School Gifted ÁTalented ÁCreative

Yes, he’s one of our own.

Visit us at 1911 S. Main Street (800) 817-8234

LoansWorthMore.org Open to those who live, work, or attend school in Tarrant, Denton, Parker, and Johnson Counties.

“Where Precocious Children are Nurtured and Appreciated”

817-448-8484 www.andersonschool.net

FTWCCU

52 2011-2012

Your Parker County

East Parker County Chamber of Commerce

www.community-news.com

Chambers of Commerce

“Old Traditions-New Opportunities” 100 Chuck Wagon Trail Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-7844 www.eastparkerchamber.com info@eastparkerchamber.com

Weatherford Chamber of Commerce “We Mean Business” P.O. Box 310 401 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-3801 or 888-594-3801 www.weatherford-chamber.com www.visitweatherford.com info@weatherford-chamber.com

Springtown Area Chamber of Commerce “Home of the Wild West Festival” P.O. Box 296, 112 South Main Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-7828 www.springtownchamber.org chamber@ntbb.net RIGHT: The annual Peach Festival, sponsored by the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce, draws thousands of visitors each year.

Pulliam Pools would be honored to build your outdoor stay-ca-tion destination!

When you are ready for family fun and relaxation, call America’s Oldest Pool Builder.

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The Community News

SPORTS/PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Aledo Athletics Youth baseball, softball, t-ball, honkball 1100 Bankhead Hwy. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-7279 www.aledoathletics.com

Your Parker County

2011-2012

53

Quality of Life

Aledo Fitness 204 S. Front St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-3488 www.aledofitnessdreambig.com/

Aledo Lions Club Youth basketball www.aledolions.com

Aledo Yoga and Nia Studio 203 East Oak St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6206 www.aledoyoga.com

Aledo Youth Football

Powerhouse Gym 148 College Park Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-9371

Springtown Lions Club Youth football, basketball 817-360-4630

Tate’s Total Training 125 N. Elm St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-6550 www.tatestotaltraining.com

www.aledoyouthfootball.org

CrossFit Aledo 118 Marble Court, Suite B Aledo, Texas 76008 817-204-9830 www.crossfitaledo.com/

Body Exchange Fitness Center 120 East Main St. Azle, Texas 76020 817-444-4800 www.BEFTX.com

Ultimate Fitness 3290 Fort Worth Hwy., Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-594-8815

Weatherford ISD Community Education Youth basketball 602 W. Water St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-2806 http://comed.weatherfordisd.com

Weatherford Little League Curves-Azle

weatherfordlittleleague.com

235 Northwest Pkwy.

Azle, Texas 76020 817-270-8627

Weatherford Optimist Club

Curves-Willow Park 109 South Ranch House Road, Suite 102 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-594-6006

Maverick All-Star Tumblers 1821 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-613-1189 www.maverickallstars.com

The Rock 1308 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-9689

Parker County Tennis Association www.parkercountytennis.org

Youth football Randall Grissom, 817-597-7307

Weatherford Parks & Recreation Various youth and adult sports and recreation activities 119 Palo Pinto Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-4124 www.ci.weatherford.tx.us/index. aspx?NID=25

Weatherford Soccer Association Youth soccer www.weatherford-soccer.com

Weatherford Youth Association Youth football www.weatherfordyouth.com

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Coach Andy Edwards helps Carter Page with his stance at the plate in a fall league “Honk Ball” game at the Aledo Athletics fields. Honk Ball is for players 3-4 years old.

OTHER RECREATION

City Lights Weatherford Theater

Cherry Park Pool

1000 Cinema Drive Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-341-3232

302 West Lee Ave., Corner of Lee and Alamo, Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-4382 (summer only) 817-598-4125 (off-season) www.weatherfordparks.com

Summer Sports Camps www.community-news.com/camps

54 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

GOLF Canyon West 160 Club House Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-4653

Cross Timbers Golf Course 1181 South Stewart St. Azle, Texas 76020 817-444-4940

The Golf Club at Crown Valley 29 Crown Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-7512

Horseshoe Bend Country Club 305 Lipan Trail Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-594-6454

Live Oak Country Club 1734 Bethel Road Weatherford, Texas 76086

Lost Creek Golf Club 4101 Lost Creek Blvd.

Aledo, Texas 76008 817-244-3312

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Dan Bowen tees of at Split Rail Links and Golf Club in Annetta.

Squaw Creek Golf Course 1605 Ranch House Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-8185

Split Rail Links and Golf Club 2151 Old Annetta Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-4653

Sugar Tree Golf Course 7510 FM 1189 Dennis, Texas 76087 817-596-0020

WEATHERFORD Cartwright Park

Love Street Park 309 Love St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

100 Cartwright Park Road Weatherford, Texas 76088

Soldier Springs Park

701 Narrow St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-4333

Chandor Gardens

961 Charles St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 200 Thrush St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway

711 West Lee Ave. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-613-1700

Cherry Park 313 Davis St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Vine Street Park 700 West Vine St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

OTHER RECREATION

Holland Lake Park

PARKS

1419 Holland Lake Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086

EAST PARKER COUNTY

Marshall Park

Bearcat Park 151 FM 5 South Aledo, Texas 76008 (Just East of McAnally Intermediate School)

Cross Timbers Park 105 West Stagecoach Trail Willow Park, Texas 76087 (Just past Willow Park City Hall)

Harberger Hill Community Center

115 East Fifth St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

McGratton Park 645 North Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Miller Park 1501 Ball St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Aledo Community Center 104 Robinson Court Aledo, TX 76008-4452 (817) 441-9009

Clark Gardens 567 Maddux Road Weatherford, Texas 76086 940-682-4856 www.clarkgardens.com

100 Park Road 71 Mineral Wells, Texas 76067 940-328-1171 www.tpwd.state.tx.us

Lake Weatherford Marina (Lake Weatherford) 210 West Lake Drive Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-597-0418

Outwest Campground and RV Park 4003 West Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-0476

Willow Park Community Center 101 Stagecoach Trail Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-566-8840

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

55

Making Education a Priority – Nationally ◗ Aledo school board member being

heard in all 50 states

By Christine A. Hurd The Community News

Make Education a Priority began with AISD School Board Vice-President Bobby Rigues standing outside his State Farm agency, soliciting signatures and letters from passersby on FM 1187. The message was simple: shift the paradigm from ignoring education into treating it as one of the state’s top priorities. From its humble beginning, the campaign has evolved to a statewide campaign with 618 school districts and over 30 elected officials committed to the endeavor.

In August of 2011 Make Education a Priority (MEaP) received its first national exposure with a feature story on Rigues published in September’s issue of the American School Board Journal, a periodical published by the National School Boards Association.

Rigues explained the origins of MEaP as well as its impact and future.

“It initially started as a local awareness campaign with the intent of representing the public in Austin, because everyone can’t go to Austin with us to talk about the issue of school finance.

All other school districts were really saying the same thing and dealing with the same issues we were. But what was borne from that was this Resolution Adoption which said ‘We’re going to step with you, Aledo, and say that we are going to make education a priority too,” Rigues said. After submitting thousands of letters and signatures, Rigues realized that they had made an impact in Austin.

“We began to hear that legislators would end some of their speeches with ‘Yes, we are making education a priority.’ That’s how we knew we were being heard,” Rigues said.

In addition to the publicity centralized in Austin, MEaP has stayed true to its grassroots origins and has transformed into a union of schools, communities and individuals.

“One of the most important things is all of the individual [actors] that made a difference in MEaP from organizations to school boards to associations and even student groups. One particular student initiative in El Paso led a student advocacy press conference. There are countless and nameless individuals who all stand and speak the same words in unison,” Rigues said.

YOU R COD E OF CON DUC T | THE CHA NGE AGEN T | OUT SOU RCIN G SPEC IAL ED SEPTEMBER 2011 Volume 198, No. 9

Inside: Talking to lawmakers about ESEA

StananddUp Speak Out How you, like Bobby Rigues, can be a better advocate for your schools

Turn to EDUCATION, page 57

See where Parker County’s history has come home

When you are looking for a location for your special day Consider a place with a sense of history Weddings, banquets and celebrations at the Doss Heritage and Culture Center

Photo courtesy of saltforkimages.com

Landscape Design & Installation • Water Features Native Texas Plants • Cactus Perennials, Annuals, Shrubs & Trees

STUART NURSERY & LANDSCAPING 2317 FORT WORTH HIGHWAY • WEATHERFORD, TX 76087 www.stuartnurseryinc.com

817-596-0003 • Fax 817-598-0628

Come to the Doss Heritage and Culture Center, a Texas history museum, in Weatherford and experience the rich history of Parker County and Texas. Parker County’s rich tapestry of cattle barons and cowboys, Broadway and television stars, chuck wagons & stagecoaches, American Indians and pioneers are showcased in galleries that reflect our rich past.

Group tours are welcome. See our website, www.dosscenter.org, or follow us on Facebook for more information on exhibits and events.

Doss Heritage and Culture Center A Texas History Museum 1400 Texas Drive in • Weatherford 817-599-6168

Hall is 3,250 s.f. and • Heritage seats up to 200 banquet-style • Full catering kitchen chairs and banquet tables • Tables, included as part of rental fee • Full audio-visual capabilities

Open Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 1 - 5 p.m.

Admission is $5 for adults $3 for kids & seniors

56 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

Find more local news in our weekly newspaper es, 1B n social grac s cal youth lear · 75 cent ws.com e n Cotillion Lo y t i n w.commu

S W E N Y T I N U M THE COM SIDE 11 · ww 5-11, 20 August

Park Oaks · Willow tas · Hudson do · the Annet nty, Texas: Ale n Parker Cou ter Eas g vin Ser

ALEDO ISD

District receives ‘Recognized’ rating

ON THE MARCH

ON THE

Schedule Pickup

dstudents atten Schedules for School will be ing Aledo High AHS cafeteria available at the ors should on Aug. 12. Seni from 9-10 dules pick up sche :30 from 10:30-11 a.m.; juniors omores from a.m., and soph 1:30-2:30 p.m.

rcats Meet the Bea ter

etic Boos The Aledo Athl “Meet the Club will host t” at 6 p.m.

Bearcat Nigh 11 at the Thursday, Aug. ol Indoor Aledo High Scho ity. People will Practice Facil t the varsity be able to mee volleyball and r, football, chee Bearcat mas teams. The new be there, and cot will; also ry e. All elementa nam a s need e. submit a nam can ents stud is picked, that If that name will win a prize child’s class or party.

s ings accountability rat for 2011

◗ TEA release

By Randy Keck News The Community

Inde pen den t The Aled o was one of only School District icts in Parker distr four school the largest, far by County, and rat“Recognized” n to receive a Texas Educatio ing under the y Ratings bilit unta Agency Acco k. released last wee ognized” disThe other “Rec k, Garner and tricts were Broc wn, lville, Springto Millsap. Poo were and Peaster Weatherford le.” ically Acceptab rated “Academ

ation Fall Ball Registr its

SS MEET THE BO for

ting is set A public mee 8 at 6:30 p.m.

Monday, Aug. iel Ninth at the Don Dan to meet new Grade Center ndent Dan AISD Superinte Manning.

s within the Four campuse ary:” rated “Exempl AISD were de iel Ninth Gra The Don Dan iff Elementary dagr ol Campus, Van Scho ry Elementa School, Coder ol.

Scho entary and Stuard Elem ry School and McCall Elementa ol Scho e rmediat McAnally Inte the ognized,” and d were rated “Rec ols were rate secondary scho ptable.”

Acce “Academically e were 61 Statewide ther 422 districts and Exemplar y disdistricts. 609 y Recognized d “Academicall tricts were rate ricts COMMUNITY NEWS and 76 dist le” RANDY KECK/THE ptab Acce ng “Aca dem ical ly d Gauwain duri rate e wer Shown is Trey hing season. the 2011 marc Unacceptable.” this week for Superintendent drills rim n Inte o bega t Aled men . changes to the o Bearcat Regi e practice field said Aled grad The ning ninth Dan Man sysnesday at the bility rating drills on Wed school accounta to drop across gs tem caused ratin the state.

Exemplary of ge enta S PET The perc 19.5 dropped from school districts five percent. percent to just percentage of Likewise, the ped drop ricts dist Recognized to 34 percent. from 49 percent helps deal with of Academically ◗ Parker Paws The percentage icts rose from ed animals Acceptable distr percent, and influx of unwant to 53 seau 27.6 percent dise Sandra Rous tabl by os Unaccep Story and Phot the number of News unity led.

The Comm n Barb Pursley tricts almost doub e pleased to a Saturday whe al It’s 11 a.m. on County Anim “Obviously we’r gnized disker /Par ford Weather a reco for the day, arrives at the y once again be is just opening ges caused man ter. The shelter lined up to surrender armShel trict - those chan ning le are to drop,” Man older dogs and but already peop ns district scores kitte of , boxes use loads of puppies folks get there early beca g said. se drop in ratin kennels are full, on leashes. The Regarding the ally once the shelter’s ed to Academic pt any more. By they know that from Recogniz dle cials won’t acce for Aledo Mid and only in al control offi n anim take Acceptable ol, als have been o High Scho ter will 12:30, 20 anim s Sadly, the shel School and Aled adopted out. not both campuse two have been day, although es Manning said ings the next ly, er overall scor have more open on adoptions. Unfortunate actually had high the more strinrun a , but of year use last beca than them bers are down. s, a ents pushed Paw num irem er tion requ Park adop of gent the president ides is g. prov ley ratin r that Purs tion to a lowe nteer organiza showed gains ker nonprofit, volu “They certainly Weatherford/Par there’s support to the ux of but obviously much-needed pite the infl we’re pleased said. le al Shelter. Des rovement,” he tage of peop County Anim room for imp and the shor will be with als ogs outg anim , ratin d energetic unwante The 2011 s t a pet, Pursley, the next two year ly positive. looking to adop the districts for TAKS stays amazing e, the smil out to k es 2A S, page ing and quic as Texas phas Turn to PAW lements the new system and imp m. syste STAAR rating

nteer, Donate lu o V , er st o F t, p Ado

Commentary Support your local restaurants ber 31 Volume 22, Num ly Published Week

441-7661 E CALL (817) TO SUBSCRIB News The Community Copyright 2010,

writes about the Richard Henderson locally. g importance of dinin 6A OSES | PAGE THISTLES&R

ity Life&Commun TravelogueEagle Mountain Park.

will hold Aledo Athletics Registrations 2011 Fall Ball weekend in during the first ions will be strat August. Regi ead in Willow held at Railh a.m. to 2 p.m.

Park from 10 Aug. 6 and from on Saturday, ay, Aug. 7.

2-4 p.m. Sund is for honkball Registration ball and soft$80. T-ball, base $90. AAI’s on is ball registrati nt mea is ram Fall Ball prog uctional and to be an instr development fundamental uts e are no tryo program. Ther and softball ball base for fall formed via a - all teams are more informablind draft. For s. .aledoathletic tion, visit www an e-mail to com or send letics.com. info@aledoath

Teen Parker County Court begins

Teen Court Parker County at sixth session will begin its day, Aug. 30.

5:30 p.m. Tues session will ing The first train Sept. 6. day, Tues be at 6 p.m. of ts at Justice Teen Court mee inct 4, located the Peace Prec North in I-20 at 5189 East the shopping (in Park w Willo h side of Istrip on the nort mation, call infor 20). For more at 817-929-8817 Susann Eller , or e-mail or 817-426-5346 bcglobal.net. jeller3639@s

cer Strike out Can ment bowling tourna y are

Willoughb Friends of Eric raising bowlhosting a fund at 4 p.m. ing tournament at Cityview 6 Aug. Saturday, Fort Oakmont in Lanes, 6601 ion fee is strat Regi Worth.

6, and $25 $20 before Aug. event, and the of date the on lgames of bow includes two e The top thre ing per person. prizes. A ive averages rece will also be silent auction eeds t. Proc held at the even ughby Willo will go to the t with medical family to assis cancer treatexpenses for or for more ter, ment. To regis e-mail cthyinformation, m. Additional les@yahoo.co es from com Eric help for in uts for men Knockouts hairc will donate who Weatherford, y all sales ever 35 percent of st.

Sunday in Augu

The Community News is a weekly newspaper published each Friday. Our mission statement is simple: to produce the best newspaper possible for our readers.

• Weekly Publication • Delivered to your mailbox each Friday or on-line

• Special sections throughout the year • Locally-focused content • Local Government • Schools • Family friendly • • Lifestyle • Sports • Movie Listings • • Tackling local issues head-on • • Photo coverage • Events • And more…

• Award-winning local news coverage • National Newspaper Association • Texas Press Association • North & East Texas Press Assocition

• Local ownership and operation HOW TO REACH US Our phone number is 817-441-7661 or toll-free 1-877-441-7661 Story idea? Call Randy Keck at ext. 207 or e-mail rkeck@community-news.com Subscriptions: Subscribe online or call Ext. 201 Advertising: Ext. 203 or e-mail lschmid@community-news.com Classified line ads: Ext. 201 e-mail classifiedlineads@community-news.com, or see our Web site.

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Sports

your

Fleet of Foor tfinishes eighth in Aledo youngste Olympics. the US at Junior

A close look at

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Pa r k e r C o u n t y

2011-2012

An Informati

on Guide

• Aledo • The Annettas • Brock • Hudson Oaks • Millsap • Peaster • Poolvill e • Springtown • Weatherford • Willow Park

Published by:

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www.communi ty-news.com Copyright 2011-2012 The Community P.O. Box 1031 News • Aledo, TX 817-441-7661 76008 • Toll-free 1-877-441-7661

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

six fellow board members and never ask about [political affiliation.] It’s unfortunate that when we get to Austin and the topic of education comes up, there’s the aisle between Republican and Democrat and their philosophies of education. It is unfortunate and sad when party politics takes precedence,” Rigues said.

EDUCATION from page 55 For bringing together these formerly disparate groups, Rigues was recently awarded the Texas Schools Public Relation Association’s 2011 Key Communicator award. Rigues humbly maintained that he was only the spark, and that it was the kindling of thousands of involved parents, schools and communities that helped the campaign spread like wildfire.

“It was really our simple message and the passion that people held in their hearts. It all revolves around the idea that a prosperous society is truly dependent on an educated public. It is the passion to protect the pursuit of quality education shared by thousands upon thousands of people [that made it grow.]” Rigues said.

AISD Superintendent Dan Manning emphasized the simple appeal of the MEaP message and the severity of the situation.

“Bobby Rigues is an outstanding leader, board member, and concerned citizen. I think the reason that his campaign has been so successful is the simplicity of his message—there’s no politics, so it’s something that everyone can understand and support, and that’s why I think it resonates so well,” Manning said.

Manning, who has served in public education for twenty-seven years said that he never thought the current situation would come to pass.

“I think what’s happened recently in the legislature is a wake-up call,” Manning said, “People have to realize that you can’t cut your way towards excellence.”

Last March, MEaP held a rally in Austin that attracted over 12,000 participants, and while the campaign has utilized traditional political avenues such as a letter-writing campaign, MEaP is not a creature of party politics – representatives on both sides of the aisle have signed the MEaP promise.

57

“It all revolves around the idea that a prosperous society is truly dependent on an educated public.”

- Bobby Rigues

SPECIAL TO THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Aledo ISD School Board member Bobby J. Rigues speaks to a legislative council in Austin in 2011. His Make Education a Priority initiative has garnered national attention.

“One of the unique things about school board members [like myself ] is that we don’t hold a shingle saying we’re

a Republican or a Democrat. There were over 7,000 elected school board members and we sit out our board with

While MEaP has produced unity among school districts, the challenges are not over. Several items were passed in the 82nd Legislatiure, including four billion dollars in educational spending cuts that will make it difficult for some Texas schools to keep up with one of the highest student growth rates in the nation.

“When you compound being ranked in the bottom quartile in education spending and then the four million dollars in cuts and no additional grants, it becomes a tough pill to swallow,” Rigues said. However, he clarified that MEaP was not necessarily all about procuring more money, but rather figuring out how to solve a broken school finance system.

“I believe that an educated public would support education even to the point of additional dollars. The media often ask me, ‘Is all you want additional dollars?’ and that’s not necessarily true.

We want to figure out how to fix the broken system, figure out how much that’s going to cost and then take it back to the public, all under the premise that an prosperous society deserves and needs an educated public,” Rigues said.

Turn to EDUCATION, page 60

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58 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

Native Sons and Daughters Mary Martin and the artist who sculpted her

By Christine A. Hurd The Community News

The Mary Martin Statue outside of Weatherford Library is one of the icons of the town—Martin, dressed as Peter Pan stands outside of the children’s section with hands on hips and a confident smile on her face. The bronze statue was cast and sculpted more than 35 years ago in preparation for the library’s opening on the bicentennial, July 4, 1976.

The artist and sculptor and longtime resident of Weatherford, Ronald Thomason, died Aug. 4, 2011. Rev. Fred Ryle served as the invocator during the ceremony and spoke about the artist and the story behind the statue.

“Ronald Thomason flew out to Palm Springs for her to model and then he came back and sculpted it in wax and then it was cast in Parker County. It is

The Mary Martin statue welcomes children and adults to the Weatherford Public Library. Artist Ronald Thomason (right) was the original sculptor for the statue, which was dedicated July 4, 1976.

Much of Martin’s memorabilia has been donated to the Doss Heritage and Culture Center in Weatherford.

almost exactly her size, just a bit smaller,” Ryle said. “We originally put it out in the middle of the driveway and later when we remodeled, we put it near the window of the children’s section so the children can look out and see the statue.”’

During the 1976 ceremony, Martin was joined by Weatherford’s other wellknown name, former Congressman and Speaker of the House, Jim Wright.

“Mary Martin was here for the dedication and she and Jim Wright were together at the grand opening in 1976, but they had never met before, Weatherford’s two most well-known individuals, so they met that afternoon when we were gathering. We had pulled in a flatbed trailer and that was the stage for the opening, and of course we had a microphone and they introduced each other,” Ryle said.

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

59

Martin, in addition to being known as a Tony-award winning Broadway star, gave a large amount of memorabilia to the city after her death in 1990.

Martin would have celebrated her 98th birthday this year.

“Mary was always a supporter to the library and gave a lot of memorabilia such as sheet music and pictures, and that was kind of [like] the Doss Heritage and Culture Center. She gave it to the library and then the city, as we moved towards constructing a museum, gave the collection to Civic Development and the Doss Center,” Ryle said.

Ronald Thomason will not only have the statue as his artistic legacy, but also his contributions to the community, teaching classes and bestowing secrets of his trade.

“When he was made the artist of the year, in 1973, we had several exhibits here. He taught classes here for the art association in Weatherford. My wife and others took a class, well, they were actually more like seminars where he would talk about his art techniques,” Ryle said.

“One of his secrets was when he would go out and paint a landscape, he got some of the soil and mixed it with the paintings so that he would get the perfect shade. He would sit on top of his car to paint landscapes cross-legged; he didn’t stand like most other painters, he sat on his car, and he started that practice when he was in Japan. He would talk about all kinds of art: watercolors and other media as part of community education classes when community education was just getting started.”

LIBRARIES

MUSEUMS

Weatherford Public Library 1014 Charles St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-4150 www.wpltx.com East Parker County Library 201 FM 1187 N. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6545 www.epclibrary.com Springtown Public Library 626 North Main St. Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-5862 http://ntrls.tsl.state.tx.us/springtown

Doss Heritage and Culture Center 1400 Texas Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-6168 www.dosscenter.org

Museum of the Americas 216 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-8668

One item of Mary Martin memorabilia was found, not among the items at the Doss Heritage and Culture Center, but among the girlhood treasures of one of the staff member’s mother at The Community News. The book of paper doll dresses and costumes was published in 1942.

60 2011-20129

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

EDUCATION from page 57

Places

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Angel’s Nest Bed & Breakfast is located in the old C. D. Hartnett home, built in 1896. The 10,000 square foot home features a three-story turret, and is located on the tallest hill in Weatherford. The home has 29 rooms, stained-glass windows and balconies looking out on almost every side.

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The Texas school finance system for the past five years has been based off of a 2005 piece of legislation that designated “target revenues” for school districts instead of a formula of per-student funding. The funding system worked as a snapshot in time, with each district receiving X amount of dollars based on the needs the district faced in 2005 with a “hold-harmless” guarantee that funding received would never go below that number. However, with some districts rapidly growing, that old number no longer is appropriate for some districts and the calculated “worth” of each student can differ by nearly $1500 dollars across the state. Moreover, during the 82nd session, legislators struck out the hold-harmless guarantee, which means that districts’ safety nets are now gone.

Rigues said that education as a top issue for Texas is in the state’s history, for providing a quality education was one of the tenets of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

“If you look at the grievances against the Mexican government – as an educator it makes the hair stand up on back on your neck – one of them was not providing an acceptable education.

It was on the same level as the right to bear arms, oppression and tyranny, the right of self-representation and here you have education thrown into the mix, sometimes before the others like it was more important to them,” Rigues said.

Rigues hopes that MEaP will serve as a strong voice for education in next two years, and pointed toward the effects the campaign now might have for decades to come.

“In the perfect world, if we could take MEaP and consider it as an overriding theme to education so that’s it’s on the forefront of peoples’ minds. MEaP: read a book. MEaP: get to know your teachers. The 83rd session doesn’t meet until 2013, so the intent is elevating the topic and getting schools to do that across Texas. It’s a passive way to get the community involved, increase public awareness, and create a tagline to elevate the thought of education,” Rigues said, “It’s highly probable that we’ll come out of this rough period, but the education we provide now will affect the children for the rest of their lives.”

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61

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Joe Lane, owner of Fish Creek Restaurant in Willow Park, displays some of his signature dishes.

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Serving every family as if you are a part of our Own Telephone: 817-594-2747 Toll Free: 800-593-2747

Fax: 817-596-7803 Metro: 817-596-2802

Agape Coffee Haus Bookstore 108 Jearl St. 817-441-7770 Aledo Donuts 701 North FM 1187 817-441-0011 Aledo Taqueria 100 FM 1187 South 817-441-7940

Garden of Eat’n at Agape 108 Jearl St. 817-441-7770 gardenofeatn@gmail.com JK Donuts 311 FM 1187 South 817-441-6786 Joe’s Pizza & Pasta 311 S. FM 1187 817-441-2959

62 2011-2012

Your Parker County

Jorge’s Mexican Restaurant 100 South Front St. 817-441-8311

HUDSON OAKS/FORT WORTH HWY

Mesquite Pit 1201 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-596-7046

Sonic Drive-in 300 North FM 1187 817-441-6999

Big Burger 3322 Fort Worth Hwy 817-594-2785

Pizza Hut 710 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-599-4134

Subway 311 North FM 1187 817-441-1182

Boo-Ray’s of New Orleans 3039 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-599-6266

R&K Café 3311 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-594-7701

The Bearcat 421 South FM 1187 817-441-8981

Dairy Queen 3205 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-594-2479

R&K Café II 1115 Fort Worth Hwy., Suite 200 817-598-0066

BROCK

Doughnut Hole, The 102 Elm St. 817-594-5055

Sonic 3051 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-613-0562

Golden Chick 2813 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-599-6646

Subway 2815 Fort Worth Hwy. Suite 100 817-613-0060 2801 East I-20 817-613-0785

Brazos River Catfish Café 10771 W. I-20 817-596-2994 Brock Junction 7458 West I-20 817-594-6626 Mikey’s I-20 Service Road 817-441-7177

Joe’s Pizza & Pasta 1115 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-341-2200 Malt Shop 2038 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-594-2524 McDonald’s 2980 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-599-9099

www.community-news.com

SPRINGTOWN

WEATHERFORD

Caffeine Fiend 1292 JE Woody Road 888-566-4491

Alvin Ord’s Sandwich Shop 914 South Main St. 817-599-5211

Chicken Express 502 E Hwy. 199 817-523-0009

Applebee’s 208 West I-20 817-599-3188

D-Bo’s Grill 638 N. Main St. 817-523-4545 Howell’s Western Café 503 E Hwy. 199 817-523-1018 Mr. Jim’s Pizza 417 E Hwy. 199 Ste 7 817-523-2255 Nanna’s Kountry Kitchen 5200 E Hwy. 199 817-677-3790

Taco Bell 2930 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-599-9311

Pizza Hut 450 E Hwy. 199 817-523-4400

Ultimate Cupcake 3316 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-881-7444

Subway 493 E Hwy. 199 817-220-0529

Wanda’s Restaurant 1503 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-599-7421

Woody Creek Barbeque 205 N. Ave. A 817-220-2008

Arby’s 801 South Main St. 817-594-9561 Baker’s Ribs 1921 South Main St. 817-599-4229 Balentine’s Bakery 408 South Main St. 817-594-7132 Braum’s 1505 South Main St. 817-594-0811 Buffalo Wild Wings 320 Adams Drive 817-598-0432 Burger King 107 West I-20 817-594-7726

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The Community News

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2011-2012

Chad’s Pizza & Burgers 609 North Main St. 817-594-5656

Granny’s Kitchen 1802 Santa Fe Drive 817-598-9025

Olive Garden 315 East I-20 817-599-4207

Taste Buffet 106 College Park Drive 817-599-5568

Chick-Fil-A 2525 South Main St. 817-594-3001

Hutch’s Pie Shop 145 College Park Drive 817-594-0751

On the Border Mexican Grill 114 East I-20 817-594-2174

The Wild Mushroom Restaurant and Lounge 1917 Martin Drive 817-599-4935

Chicken Express 1711 Bethel Road 817-598-1555

IHOP 2005 South Main St. 817-598-1925

Outlaw BBQ 3101 Ranger Hwy. 817-599-3520

Chili’s Grill and Bar 128 East I-20 817-594-1661

Iron Skillet Restaurant 2001 Santa Fe Drive 817-594-0245

Papa Murphy’s Take N Bake Pizza 2801 East I-20 817-599-9990

Tom’s Donuts & Kolaches 408 S. Main St. 817-599-0404

Chuckwagon 1102 West Park Ave. 817-613-1303

Jack In The Box 2002 Clear Lake Road 817-594-3689 804 South Main St. 817-594-1246

Pasta Fina 807 South Main St. 817-599-5861

Waffle House 2521 South Main St. 817-596-9701

Pizza Hut 710 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-599-4134

Wendy’s 2010 S. Main St. 817-596-2950

Pizza Place 1218 South Main St. 817-594-0591

Wendy’s 1980 South Main St. 817-596-2950

Pulido’s Mexican Restaurant 1217 South Main St. 817-594-0361

Whataburger 110 E. I-20 817-599-8321

Rosa’s Café 1920 Martin Drive 817-599-5335

Which Wich Superior Sandwiches 220 Adams Drive 817-598-0200

Cici’s Pizza 325 Adams Drive, Suite 355 817-341-8300 Cotton Patch Café 1964 South Main St. 817-599-0706 Cracker Barrel 132 East I-20 817-598-9070 Cutting Horse Bar & Grill 2132 Tin Top Road 817-599-8667 Dairy Queen 417 Palo Pinto St. 817-594-3376 816 South Main St. 817-594-5216 Denny’s 235 E. I20 817-594-5700 Domino’s Pizza 1115 Fort Worth Hwy. Suite 100 817-613-8585 Donna’s Donuts 1221 S. Main St. 817-599-3550 Downtown Café 101 West Church St. 817-594-8717

KFC 902 South Main St. 817-594-1391 Kincaid’s Burgers 220 Adams Drive 817-594-7773 La Playa Maya 1445 Fort Worth Hwy. 817-613-8686 Little Caesar’s 312 S. Main St. 817-594-0056 Little Panda Chinese Restaurant 1812 Santa Fe Drive 817-594-8844 Logan’s Roadhouse 325 West I-20 817-594-5455

Schlotzsky’s Deli 1831 South Main St. 817-599-3900 Skinny’s Hamburgers 504 Palo Pinto St. 817-594-3101

Long John Silver’s 1701 South Main St. 817-596-5575

Sonic 1002 South Main St. 817-594-5780 1201 North Main St. 817-599-0670

Mary’s Brazos Café 5090 Tin Top Road 817-594-0203

Starbucks 1952 South Main St. 817-341-2547

McAlister’s Deli 215 Adams Drive 817-594-3314

Subway 1836 South Main St. 817-599-7100 2605 Bankhead Hwy. 817-594-2755 400 Santa Fe Drive 817-594-1299 Taco Bell 1814 South Main St. 817-594-4595

Fire Oak Grill 114 Austin Ave. 817-598-0400 www.fireoakgrill.com

McDonald’s 2407 South Main St. 817-594-6215

Golden Corral 1810 South Main St. 817-599-8202

Montana Restaurant 1910 South Main St. 817-341-3444

Golden Fried Chicken 1101 North Main St. 817-594-4031

Mr. Jim’s Pizza 701 Palo Pinto St., Ste. J 817-594-5800

Golden Moon 1410 South Main St. 817-594-1692

Nizza Pizza Pasta & Subs 1016 S. Main St. 817-594-9090

Taco Bueno 1901 South Main St. 817-594-2840 Taco Casa 919 South Main St. 817-598-0036

Tokyo Japanese Steak House 126 East I-20 817-596-2871

Whistle Hill Café 104 South Walnut St. 817-599-4311 Yesterday’s Sandwich Shop 128 York Ave. Suite B 817-599-3903 Yogurt Story 325 Adams Drive 817-594-7992

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WILLOW PARK Chicken Express 5110 E. I-20 Service Road S. 817-441-7177 Clear Fork Station 4971 East I-20 Service Road 817-441-1551 Domino’s Pizza 109 S. Ranch House Road 817-441-6888 Fish Creek 4899 East I-20 Service Road N 817-441-1746 www.eatfishcreek.com Los Vaqueros West 29 Crown Road 817-441-2300 McDonald’s 5090 I-20 E. at Ranch House Road 817-441-7454 Milano’s Pizza & Pasta 119 South Ranch House Road 817-441-6737 Mr. Jim’s Pizza 108 South Ranch House Road 817-596-0695 Pizza Hut 5135 East I-20 Service Road N 817-441-5600 Railhead BBQ 120 South Ranch House Road 817-441-2525 Ranch House Donut 119 South Ranch House Road, Suite 1100 817-441-6333 Sonic 102 Ranch House Road 817-441-9799 Subway 5153 East I-20 Service Road North 817-441-7373 Taco Casa 101 Ranch House Road 817-441-5701 Whataburger 4915 East I-20 Service Road 817-441-2301

64 2011-2012

Your Parker County

Traditions

By Katie Martinez The Community News

Honoring a Latin tradition more than 2500 years in the making, Jorge and Dulce Pinto celebrated their daughter’s 15th birthday with a celebration fit for a princess.

Elena Hernandez, Jorge’s daughter by marriage, celebrated her quinceañera at Clear Fork Junction this year.

The rite of passage, which can be traced back to ancient Aztec traditions, was a long time in the making and brought more than 200 friends and family from as far away as Mexico.

The Pintos, owners of Jorge’s Mexican Restaurant in Aledo, used local businesses for everything from the photographer to the DJ and there are a lot of details to consider when throwing a modern-day quinceañera.

“We were planning this for a couple of years,” Jorge said. “There are a lot of details to consider and we wanted everything to be perfect for Elena’s special day.”

As in ancient times, the young woman is dressed in fine clothing, but today’s preparations include spending all day getting ready with hair appointments, nail salons and makeup followed by a photo shoot before heading to the location.

Elena chose turquoise as her color and wore a flowing white gown, similar to a wedding dress, with a turquoise bow that coordinated with the cake and the intricately decorated tabletops. Ladies in the party wore turquoise as well.

After dinner, a priest from the Pinto’s church performed a brief ceremony in which Elena was blessed, and then the dancing began and continued well into the night.

The traditional father daughter dance gave way to another tradition where a continual song allows for many of the guests, both male and female, to cut-in and dance for a moment with the young lady and wish her well.

After the ceremonial dances were finished, the lights went down and the DJ switched to Cumbia music, a form of dance where the dancers step in rhythm in a circular flow around the dance floor. The crowd was handed masquerade masks and bandanas which they twirled around in the air under a black light while fog machines and a mini laser light show were directed to the dance floor.

After the event Elena said she was grateful to her parents and the party was everything she had dreamed it would be.

“Everyone had a great time and everything was beautiful, all my friends and my family were there,” she said. “I couldn’t have asked for more.”

RIGHT: Jorge Pinto and Elena Hernandez.

KATIE MARTINEZ/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

www.community-news.com

QUINCEAÑERA

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

Festivals/Events EAST PARKER COUNTY

First Fridays in Aledo

SPRINGTOWN

Eureka Masonic Lodge Car Show

East Parker County Chamber Annual Golf Tournament

Traditionally first Fridays in June, July and August Call the City of Aledo at 817-441-7016 or www.aledo-texas.com

Miss Springtown Pageant

Saturday, May 12, 2012 At Tabernacle Square Call 817-597-5864

Thursday, April 12, 2012.

ParkFest

Ride for Heroes Annual bicycle ride benefiting East Parker County’s volunteer fire departments.

April 21, 2012 tentative Phone: 817-599-3044 www.rideforheroes.org

East Parker County Library Garden Party Annual fundraiser for the East Parker County Library.

May 19, 2012 Phone: 817-441-6564 www.epclibrary.com Hosted and sponsored by Friends of EPC Library

ParkFest celebrates Willow Park’s Demonstration Garden at the Community Center. The event includes arts and crafts vendors, entertainment, children’s activities, food and a chili cook-off sponsored by the East Parker County Chamber of Commerce.

October 22, 2012 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, call 817-205-8492

Christmas Tyme in Aledo Saturday, December 3, 2011 Growing annual event with carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, a visit from Santa Claus, craft show and lots of free refreshments.

Call the City of Aledo at 817-441-7016 or www.aledo-texas.com

Saturday, February 25, 2012 At the High School auditorium Babies – teen pageants Put on by the Springtown Chamber of Commerce Beautification Committee Call Judy Ray at 817-729-1967

Optimist Pancake Breakfast Thursday, March 1, 2012 At the High School Cafeteria Call Mike Gilley at 817-220-7243 ext.

1005

Springtown Music and Arts Festival Saturday, May 5, 2012 Call David Ward at 817-657-6584

Relay for Life Friday, May 11, 2012 At the Intermediate School Football Field Call the School District at 817-220-1700

Springtown Chamber All American Bicycle Rally Saturday, June 9, 2012 At the High School Multi-purpose building The longest route is 74 miles.

Call Oleta Parker at the Chamber: 817-220-7828

Wild West Festival Saturday, September 3, 2011 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tabernacle Square and Arville Newby Pavillion 10,000 attendees, 182 booths BBQ cook off, children’s area, stage entertainment, puppet show.

Parade at 10 a.m.

Free shuttle and parking www.wildwestfestival.org

Your Parker County Realtor Connection

Anna O’Neil 817-975-5990

Jo-Alice Davis 817-271-1847

anna@brants.com

jo-alice@brants.com

Some Brands Make a Statement It’s about trust and integrity.

Some Brands Stand the Test of Time For generations Brants has been giving smooth rides from start to ¿nish.

From the City to the Country Simply the best brand since 1926.

www.brants.com

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66 2011-2012

Your Parker County

Tour of Homes Saturday, December 3, 2011 In the surrounding Springtown area Sponsored by Legends Museum Call Amy Walker at 817-220-7828

Christmas on the Square Saturday, December 10, 2011 1 to 6 p.m.

At the Springtown Square Includes Santa Clause, booths, and concessions.

Call the City at 817-220-4834

WEATHERFORD/COUNTY WIDE Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration Annual Event at Shirley Hall Middle School in Weatherford features speakers, awards for the MLK essay and coloring contest, and a talent show. The event is sponsored by the Weatherford and Parker County Chapter of the NAACP. MLK Day is the third Monday in January.

For more information, call Diane at 817596-0163.

Books ‘n Authors ‘n All That Jazz The 10th annual event for Parker County residents to have the opportu-

EVENT INFORMATION For up-to-date event information throughout the year, visit www. community-news.com/calendar.

To submit events for inclusion in the calendar, visit www.communitynews.com/calendar_submit

nity to meet dozens of Texas authors face-to-face and to buy autographed copies of their books; attend writing workshops facilitated by authors, publishers and agent.

April 28, 2012 Alkek Fine Arts Center, Texas Hall, Weatherford College Phone: 817-594-5471 www.wc.edu

2012 Weatherford Chamber Spring Swing Golf Tournament TBA

Dreams on Wings 5K May 12, 2012 879 E. Eureka, Weatherford.

Late registration is 6:30 to 7:45 a.m.

1 Mile fun run starts at 8 am and the 5K starts at 8:30 a.m.

This is a Luke’s Locker sponsored race. Timing will be provided by RunFar Racing Services.

Parker County Frontier Days Celebration, Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo and Livestock Show.

Includes parade, trail ride and weeklong festivities.

Rodeo, June 13-16, 2012 For more information, call Bob Glenn at 817-598-5402 www.parkercountysheriffsposse.com

www.community-news.com City Hall.

July 14, 2012 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address: Historic Downtown Weatherford For more information, call toll-free: 888594-3801 www.weatherford-chamber.com Related Event: Peach Pedal Bike Ride www.peachpedal.com

Talking Tombstone Tour Parker County Peach Festival Parker County’s largest annual festival, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Featuring: 200 booths, Children’s area, Food court, Non-stop entertainment, Parker County Peaches, Peachy treats, Peach ice cream, Peach juleps, Peach smoothies, Peach cobbler, Peach jams Admission is $5 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Free parking from the Ninth Grade Center (1007 South Main St.) Exit 408, Hall Middle School, Weatherford High School, Weatherford College (225 College Park Drive) Exit 409, and the First Monday Grounds (100 Block Santa Fe) Exit 409. Free shuttle services are available from these sites as well. Free handicap parking and handicap shuttle from Weatherford Ninth Grade Center and

1-888-44JERRY www.jerrytexas.com

October 22, 2012 www.parkercountyheritagesociety.com

Christmas on the Square Annual event on the historic downtown square in Weatherford features art contest, Christmas tree decoration, vendors, entertainment and the annual Christmas parade. The Christmas Parade will be held before Christmas on the Square on Saturday, December 3, 2012.

For more information, call toll-free 888594-3801 www.weatherford-chamber.com

Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes Saturday, December 10, 2012 www.parkercountyheritagesociety.com

The Community News

Your Parker County

2011-2012

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68 2011-2012

Your Parker County

www.community-news.com

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