Comanche County Living 2019

C O M P L I M E N TA R Y | V O L I 2 0 1 9

IN TIMES OF TRIAL A true story of perseverance P. 76

COMANCHE COUNTY CHAMBER GUIDE Your guide to the Comanche Chamber of Commerce

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Soda Shop Nostalgia and fun for all generations P. 40

P. 90

H O M E T O W N L I V I N G AT I T S B E S T

WHERE DREAMS TAKE FLIGHT

YOUR SOURCE OF POWER. AND INFORMATION. We’re not your typical electric company. We don’t have customers, we have members. People aren’t just our number one priority, they’re the reason we’re here. We empower our communities and help our members soar.

To learn more about the cooperative difference, visit www.ceca.coop.

201 W Wrights Avenue Comanche TX 76442 800-915-2533 www.ceca.coop

COME VISIT US IN MARCH AT OUR NEW LOCATION! 349 Industial Blvd Comanche TX 76442

Insurance is so much more than policies and premiums.

It is also about trust and integrity, about relationships, and providing security for those that you care about.

We are not in the business of “selling� insurance, rather we are here to help you buy the insurance that fits your need and your budget.

That is why we are here to help you make the decisions necessary to protect the things that are important to you and your family.

Because some things are very important to you...

Goodson Insurance 325.356.2589 132 W Central Ave. Comanche, TX Cook Insurance 254.893.2466 609 N Texas St. De Leon, TX goodsoninsurance.com | cookinstx.com

Visit Historical Comanche!

16 rooms, 30,000 sq. ft., and 3 acres for your viewing pleasure.

Comanche County Historical Museum is located at 402 Moorman Dr. Comanche, Texas 76442

325-356-5115 E-mail at onlymuseum1@verizon.net

Open Wed-Sat 10AM-4PM MOTELS AND RESTAURANTS NEARBY!

For more info, upcoming events, and news visit www.comanchecountytxmuseum.com or Comanche County Historical Museum

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contents CC L | VO L . I 2 01 9

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Passing Down the Pow Wow

BY PEGGY PURSER FREEMAN

Vivid-colored costumes of the Sahawe Indian dancers, music of the decades, and laughter accompanies this special weekend.

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Growing Family in a Pecan Orchard

BY PEGGY PURSER FREEMAN

Grissom Pecan Farms grows more than pecans— its rich soil grows family roots.

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Comanche Study Club

BY CONNIE LEWIS LEONARD

In 1911, a group of women wanted a source of intellectual stimulation and social interaction, and formed the Comanche Study Club..

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The Soda Shop

BY JONATHAN HOOPER

The Soda Shop in Comanche provides nostalgia and fun for all generations.

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Playing Like a Girl

BY SHIRLEY KIDD DUKES

This volleyball team proves through their dedication, hard work and winning spirit that they’re just as tough as boys!

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From Humble Beginnings

BY DANIEL HAASE

The little town of Cora is gone and all but forgotten now, but it had an important role in Comanche County’s early history. A small piece of it still lives on in Comanche.

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This is One Cool Guy

BY RICK MAUCH

Between his medical career, pecan farming and scuba diving, Dr. Guyle Donham is a unique individual.

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In Times of Trial

BY DANIEL HAASE

Sara and Jack Rex came together in times of great tragedy, but have proven that love and support from a community have the power to get us through.

THE FLEMING OAK OF COMANCHE, TEXAS

Hometown Happenings 12

Comanche Livestock Show & Rodeo

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De Leon Peach & Melon Festival

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Philanthropy Comanche Education Foundation: Taste 325 Dinner & Fundraiser

Scenes Around Comanche Root & Roam Creative Studio

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Comanche County Chamber Guide

H O MET O W N L I V I NG A T I TS B EST

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FROM THE EDITOR

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Traditional Values

radition keeps us grounded through all the curveballs life throws our way. It’s a definite connection to our roots, and a common thread between our family, peers and ancestors. Tradition remains predictable, when everything else around us seemingly isn’t.

The stories within this issue pay homage to those things that keep us steady in the present. I hope you find solace and encouragement in these pages including century old festivals, to special people and historic places that identify this community.

It’s easier to appreciate traditions when we need them most, at times in the wake of tragedy. On the other hand, when life is full and when livin’ is easy, the planning, the cost and energy required to keep up with long-established customs can seem futile.

It is clear that the people of this county will remain steadfast and honor one another for generations to come. Hats off to you, and best wishes, there are not many places like this one.

Melissa McGavock M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

"These glossy pages filled with

FROM OUR READERS

beautiful pictures and stories are not just a magazine, they represent our lives and people we truly love!"

- Carrie Morris, Owner/Operator alittlewhitehouse B&B

Let us know how we're doing: info@greenfoxmarketing.net or 303 West Pearl Street, Granbury, Texas 76048

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"These pages speak far more than just photos - they share stories of communities filled with eclectic population - including a blend between longtime residents and a younger generation who have returned with a new appreciation for the roots."

- Brooke Lampman, Root and Roam Creative Studio

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254.893.1000

www.totelcom.net

Fiber now available in Comanche!

Totelcom - a locally owned company that lives, works, and plays in the same community as our customers provides state-of-the-art technology that benefits its rural service area.

High-speed internet is a major service necessity for families and businesses each and every day, and Totelcom is committed to taking care of the technological pathway for the future.

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Tradition & History

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radition and History. What powerful words. They make us think of family, culture, school, a place, a time and many other things. What do you specifically think of?

Over the holidays, my family and I went to San Antonio for the first time. I'm not sure if you have ever been, but I will be honest, The Alamo is WAY smaller than what the movies make it out to be. However, the amount of history that is around that place, made me want to make going there a tradition of my own. Tradition is simply a behavior that is passed down with symbolic meaning.

The question I have for you is what traditions are you creating or carrying on right now?

What is something you want your future family

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to remember? For me, it’s simple. It’s Jesus. He was something that was taught to me, a behavior that I learned to live out and someone that I have grown to know so personally that I want to pass down to my three boys. How about you? Is it a place you go to? A person you celebrate? A thing you always do? Those traditions and the history behind them are what make your family what it is and what is to come! Take advantage of 2019 and become a tradition MAKER! Your history depends on it!

Eric Wilkins Eric Wilkins, CEO

PUBLISHER

GreenFox Marketing Solutions

CEO Eric Wilkins

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ART DIRECTION

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

ADS + MARKETING

Melissa McGavock Dawn Skinner Tori Townsend

BE A PART OF COMANCHE COUNTY LIVING!

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CONTRIBUTING Connie Lewis Leonard WRITERS

Advertise your business in Comanche County Living.

Daniel Haase

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We also welcome story ideas.

PHOTOGRAPHERS LP Taylor Photography

Contact us at info@greenfoxmarketing.net or call 817-330-9015.

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C O M P L I M E N TA R Y | V O L I 2 0 1 9

ABOUT THE COVER

Melissa McGavock

The Soda Shop in Comanche provides nostalgia and fun for all generations.

Dawn Skinner

DESIGNERS Tori Townsend

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Lindsay Milson

WEB DEVELOPERS

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Photo By: Mary Kaitlin Artistry

Samantha McComas

Comanche County Living© is published

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(817) 330-9015 303 West Pearl Street | Granbury, TX 76048 All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice.

IN TIMES OF TRIAL A true story of perseverance P. 76

COMANCHE COUNTY CHAMBER GUIDE Your guide to the Comanche Chamber of Commerce

The

Soda Shop Nostalgia and fun for all generations P. 40

P. 90

H O M E T O W N L I V I N G AT I T S B E S T

LIKE WHAT YOU SEE? Purchase a print of your favorite photograph or let us know what you think of our work.

EMAIL US INFO@GREENFOXMARKETING.NET

Busiest Town - Friend liest People

De Leon’s businesses provide a personal touch, which adds to its small, rural setting. Whether you visit for a day, a weekend, or decide to make De Leon your home, you’ll discover De Leon really does have the

“Busiest Town - Friend liest People.”

Home of the Peach and Melon Festival Industrial Development Corp. DIDC-EDC Board 125 S. Texas St | De Leon, TX 76444 254-893-2065 | www.cityofdeleon.org

HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS

77th Annual Comanche Rodeo June 15 - 16, 2018

Comanche Rodeo Grounds Hosted by Comanche Roping Club Photography provided by Root & Roam Creative Studio Content provided by January Bauman

The Comanche Roping Club hosted over 300 competitors and as many as 2000 spectators over the weekend. Activities included the county team roping competition, the 2018 Ladies Ranch Bronc Tour (aired on Ride TV), the San Angelo Concho Chicks Rodeo Drill Team, a match race between the junior and senior rodeo winners in calf roping and barrels, as well as food trucks, vendors, giveaways and a closing Saturday night dance featuring Sarah Peacock.

Comanche Rodeo is sanctioned by the United Professional Rodeo Association (UPRA) and the Cowboys Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA).

78th Annual Comanche Rodeo to take place June 7 - 8, 2019.

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DeLeon, Eastland, Brownwood/Early, Stephenville

ATM available at this location

Lobby Hours Monday - Friday 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Drive thru Hours Monday - Thursday 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Friday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

(254) 893-2031 240 South Texas St. DeLeon, TX 76444 fmbank-tx.com

CO M M U N I T Y

PASSING DOWN THE POW WOW

Words by Peggy Purser Freeman Photography provided by Comanche Chamber of Commerce and Riley Studio

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ach year the aroma of mesquite fires drifts through the air at City Park in Comanche and mingles with the sounds of family entertainment. Vivid-colored costumes of the Sahawe Indian dancers, music of the decades, and laughter accompanies this special weekend. It’s Pow Wow time.

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COMANCHE IS A COMMUNITY DEDICATED TO PASSING DOWN MEMORIES, VALUES AND GOOD TIMES OF POW WOW.

H O MET O W N L I V I NG A T ITS B EST

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DID YOU KNOW? The Comanche County POW WOW reaches back to 1981 when a group of citizens wanted to merge the area’s history with the promise of a bright future.

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The Comanche County POW WOW attracts thousands to Comanche’s City Park on the 4th weekend of September.

It reaches back to 1981 when a group of citizens wanted to merge the area’s history with the promise of a bright future.

Over the years, volunteers have poured their energy and time into creating this one-of-a-kind event.

“We’re always trying to attract people to our small town and get them to stay a while,” Darlene Causey McEwin explained. Darlene moved to Comanche in 8th grade. As an adult, she and her husband watched the town give birth to the Pow Wow event.

Then she served as Comanche Chamber of Commerce Executive Director for over twenty years. “We decided to center our annual celebration around our histo-

CO MANCHE CO U N T Y LI V I N G

ry and wanted to honor our Native American Roots. There have been so many volunteers over the years—Dr. Russell and Sherry Reynolds, Bill Clemons, Rex Plumblee and Christine Perkins, just to name a few. The Sahawe Indian dancers with their vivid costumes became the image of Pow Wow. The Sahawe Dancers began with a group of Boy Scouts. They have preserved the art of the Indian dance.”

“Growing up, I always looked forward to September and knowing Pow Wow was just around the corner,” recalls Krista Davis Munroe. Like so many adults, grew up attending the event each year. Comanche is a community dedicated to preserving memories, passing down values and sharing the good times.

“One of the greatest things about a small town is the traditions that stay the

same over time,” Krista said. “In early 2018 the event needed a volunteer to be Pow Wow coordinator. Just like every event in every town, good volunteers are the most important component for success. Without the previous generations sharing their dedication and passion this event would have faded away. But in Comanche community leaders pass their enthusiasm down to the younger generation making it an important part of who they are.”

“Some of my fondest memories involve POW WOW,” Krista said, “Riding on floats, going with a date, meeting my husband, and now that we have our sons, ten-year-old Colt and six-year-old Tate, we are making family memories. Our entire community looks forward to this event. Sometimes I feel that the adults are just as eager as the children are.”

Krista served as the 2018 Coordinator. Her story inspired everyone.

"ONE OF THE GREATEST THINGS ABOUT A SMALL TOWN IS THE TRADITIONS THAT STAY THE SAME OVER TIME." - KRISTA DAVIS MUNROE

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“I started working as coordinator back in May. At that time, I was four months pregnant with our third child. Knowing that I would work up until two days before my C-section was scheduled, but I continued anyway. After all, it’s Pow Wow. The people and businesses stepped it up this year with sponsorship.

Without them, something as big as the Pow Wow could not happen. When it comes to Pow Wow, their generosity is so wonderful.”

In her ninth month of pregnancy, on Monday leading up to the weekend event, Krista walked the grounds, checking each detail. While in the hospital, she communicated with the Chamber directors to assure they had what they needed for a smoothly run event.

“We had an ongoing joke,” Krista explained. “I could not have the baby until after Pow Wow.” She had their son, Kai, on September 19th. Pow Wow 2018 took place on September 22nd and 23rd.

Krista said, “Kai Munroe is looking forward to Pow Wow 2019. I still considered it pure joy to be a part of something so great.”

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Virginia Fleming, the current Executive Director of the Comanche Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture, continues the legacy and works to make it even better. She contributes the success of Comanche County Pow Wow to great volunteers like Krista.

“Family friendly entertainment is one of our goals,” Virginia said. “And next year we are adding more home-grown talent and bringing fresh new talent.

The scrumptious food and acres and acres of shopping and games are just a few of the events people love. Strolling through the largest classic car in Central Texas, a family can enjoy the day. Or shopping hundreds of artisans, craft and food vendors. The men in the family can enjoy the tractor & engine show.”

The Chamber plans to bring back some the favorite entertainment from yesteryear. “We also want to enlarge the number of vendors,” Virginia said. “It’s our goal to not only improve this incredible family-friendly event but to keep it affordable.”

Darwin Dickerson and the city crew prepare the park each year.

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“IT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT EVENT OF THE YEAR,” - DARWIN DICKERSON

“It’s the most important event of the year,” Dickerson said. “The city crew spends hours preparing the park for visitors. The park supervisor and l work the entire weekend to ensure things go well. And I'm privileged to judge final-table - c h ic k e n- e nt r ie s for the sanctioned barbecue cook-off.”

The Annual Barnie McBee BBQ Cook-Off is sanctioned by Lone Star BBQ Society.

Culinary talent from near and far bringing the taste people love.

Maybe you want to enter.

Or you can submit the best pictures in your camera roll into the photography contest. Comanche County Art Association host its annual art show & sale. The cash awards are in categories for Adult: Best of Show $250.00, Best of Professional $100.00, Best

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of Advanced $75.00, Best of Novice $50.00. And in the Children’s Awards: Best of Show $40.00.

The main requirement is the work has to be dry.

Visit the website for the other rules.

With acres of vendors displaying their wares, a Texas girl can spend all week-end and not see it all. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, consider being a vendor.

Download the applicable link for all categories at www.comanchechamber.org/ pow-wow Community pride, great memories, dedication—that kind of devotion is passed down from generation to generation. Volunteer if you can and most important take your family to the event and make memories that last a lifetime at Comanche County Pow Wow.

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C U LT U R E

Grissom family at Grissom Pecan Farms

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Growing Family in a Pecan Orchard GRISSOM PECAN FARMS GROWS MORE THAN PECANS—ITS RICH SOIL GROWS FAMILY ROOTS. Words by Peggy Purser Freeman Photography by Little Bear Photography

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ich in wildlife, sunrises and of course trees, Grissom Pecan Farms nestles in the arms of a forty-year-old orchard. Falling leaves, the crush of pecans and the laughter of children confirms, this is a blessed land.

Located ten miles north of Comanche, and six miles south of De Leon on Highway 16, Grissom Pecan Farms grows more than pecans—its rich soil grows family roots.

Jeramie and Kimberly Grissom met in 2000 at the Texas A&M University peanut research farm while attending Tarleton State University. Born and raised in Comanche, Kimberly grew up on a pecan farm, while Jeramie grew up on a peanut farm in Seminole, Texas. They moved to the Comanche area about three years ago.

“The Lord played the biggest part in getting us into the pecan industry,” Jeramie said. “I’m new to this industry, but it’s not my family’s first adventure in farming. We come from four generations of agriculture—peanuts, cotton and cattle.

I’m twice blessed to share this business working with my wife.

God has given us two beautiful children— Mackinzie and Kamden.”

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"We farm our own pecans as well as manage orchards for other people. A great deal of work goes into the treeto-table process."

- Jeramie Grissom

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In 2013, Jeramie met two highly-respected local businessmen in the pecan industry, Paul Lollar and Danny Davis.

In 2016, Lollar and Davis decided they were ready to retire and offered the business to Jeramie and Kimberly, partnering with his father. In August 2017, the father and son purchased the orchard and began managing operations.

“My father-in-law, Kinley Sorrells, and friend, Paul Lollar, have played a big part in mentoring and guiding on any questions or concerns we have had. They have both been a true blessing. We farm our own pecans as well as manage orchards for other people. A great deal of work goes into the tree-to-table process.

Kimberly’s family has been inspirational in helping me learn the pecan industry. My mom, dad, and sister travel back

CO MA NCHE CO UN T Y LI V I N G

and forth from Seminole to Comanche to help. They drive tractors, ship pecans, and help promote our product.”

The pecan growing season is about six months long, which includes tree pruning, mowing, brush removal, and, most important, rain from the good Lord. Around October first, harvest begins with shaking trees, sweeping, stick picking and then running the product through a cleaning plant. All this process takes lots of employees. Employees the Grissoms are very grateful for.

“Harvest season can also mean that we will be putting in later hours,” Kimberly explained. “So often meals are served out on the harvester and riding the tractor with Dad. This is a true family farm. Coming to the farm for the kids is a pleasant get-away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”

Eleven-year-old daughter, Mackinzie says she likes bringing friends out to the farm. “I drive them around on the John Deere Gator and I like to take them hog hunting.”

Kimberly continued. “Our six-year-old son, Kamden spends most of his time on the farm riding the tractor with his dad, swinging in the big oak tree, exploring and best of all snacking on those farm-fresh pecans. I would not want to raise my children any other way. Working together is great for our family.”

Jeramie jokingly added, “Kimberly and I get along very well as long as I do what she says. Seriously, our marriage is centered around our relationship with Jesus Christ. That doesn’t mean we don’t have some problems, but He is there to help us sort them out. Kimberly keeps things going. She keeps the books, sends statements and runs errands. We try to leave work at the farm. The office is out there and not in our house.

Family time is very important to us. This age we live in of go, go, go can wear you out. We have to prioritize.”

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GRISSOM PECAN FARMS LLC 751 County Road 424 Comanche, Texas (254) 893-5729 (432) 955-8245 jeramiegrissom@gmail.com

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The word is getting out about the fresh taste of Grissom pecans. In 2016, the first year in business, Grissom Pecan Farms won Grand Champion Commercial Pecans in the Comanche County Pecan Show and was selected as 2016 Comanche County Pecan Show’s Best of Show. Offering several varieties of pecans: Wichita, Pawnee, Cheyenne, Cape Fear, and Cherokee, the Grissoms sell all of them in-shell.

The Pawnee and Cheyenne produce a medium-to-large pecan with a great taste, perfect for pies and candies. Shelled pecans come in Pawnee and Cheyenne varieties in one pound and half pound bags. Grissom products may be purchased on the Bluebonnet Beef website bluebonnetbeef.com and at the Bluebonnet storefront Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10 am until 5:30 pm at 100 S Texas Street, DeLeon.

“The Price family has blessed us by carrying our pecans,” Jeramie said. “Visit us on Facebook @grissompecanfarms. We hope you enjoy our pecans.

We sure enjoy growing them for you. We believe each one of us is just a branch in Christ’s big pecan tree. We couldn’t be productive without Him.” “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 (NIV)

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Ingredients

3 1/2 cups warm water 110 degrees 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup oil 6 Tbs active dry yeast 1 Tbs salt 3 large eggs 10 1/2 -11 cups flour Oil for the dough-board or counter 1/4 cup should be plenty Cinnamon Sugar 2/3 cups white sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 Tbs cinnamon 1 cup butter 1 cup of Grissom Pecan Farms pecans

Cream Cheese Frosting 8 ounces cream cheese softened 2 tsp vanilla 4-6 cups powdered sugar 3-4 Tbs heavy whipping cream

Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl with a non-skid bottom, combine warm water, sugar, oil, and active dry yeast.

• Stir it a few times, then let it sit for a full 15 minutes.

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

• Add salt, eggs and flour to the yeast mixture. Start with about 8 cups, and mix, gradually adding the last 2 1/2-3 cups.

• Once all the flour is added, mix together for 10 minutes.

It may climb up the mixer some, keep an eye on it, and push it down if you need to.

• Once it has mixed for 10 minutes, touch the dough, does it only slightly stick to your finger? If so let it sit for 10 minutes. If it is too sticky, let it mix a few minutes longer before letting it sit. It should double in size. It will take longer if your kitchen is cold.

• After the dough has doubled in size, pour some oil onto the dough-board or counter (instead of flour) to roll your dough out on.

• Divide the dough in half, and using your hands, press it into a rectangle.

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• Melt butter in a microwave safe bowl, and pour half of it onto the dough that you have pressed out into a rectangle.

• In a separate bowl, mix white and brown sugar, pecans and cinnamon together. Sprinkle half over the melted butter.

• Tightly roll into a log and cut into 12 even-sized pieces.

• Repeat with the remaining roll dough and the other half of the melted butter and sugar.

• Let rise more. You can let them rise as short or as long as you want. Sometimes I just let them rise for 5 minutes.

They will continue to rise in the oven. You want them to be nice and big, so if your kitchen is cold it may take longer. You should have 24 rolls total.

• Bake 12-15 minutes.

• While the rolls bake, mix all of the ingredients for the cream cheese frosting together using a hand mixer, in a medium-sized bowl, until nice and smooth.

• When you pull the rolls out of the oven, let them sit for a minute or two, then spread frosting (and extra pecans if you want them to taste delectable) over the top and let it melt into the rolls.

Dublin 825 N Patrick St, Dublin, TX 76446 (254) 445-4400 *ATM available at this location

DeLeon 809 N. Texas DeLeon, Texas 76444 (254) 893-5544 *ATM available at this location

Gustine 200 Main Street Gustine, Texas 76455 (325) 667-7502

The groundwork of service to our customers was laid out years ago.

We at First National Bank continue to provide you with the financial services you deserve.

E D U C AT I O N

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COMANCHE

ST U DY C LU B Words by Connie Lewis Leonard | Photography by Mary Kaitlin Artistry

“To Possess Knowledge, We Must Have Earned Knowledge.”

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efore the 19th Amendment gave women the right to vote, before women could own property, The Comanche Study Club (CSC) was founded in 1911. With limited educational and social opportunities, the club began as a means of intellectual stimulation and social interaction beyond hearth and home. The first yearbook includes the following motto: “To Possess Knowledge, We Must Have Earned Knowledge.”

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The first Course of Study included reading from the text “Prose and Fiction” by Bliss Perry, based on the following quotes: “The literature of a people should be the record of its joys and sorrows, its wisdom and its folly, the confident of its soul.”—James Russel Lowell And Therefore, “There are few ways in which people can be better employed than in reading a good novel.”—Benjamin Jowett.

The CSC is part of the Texas Federation of Women’s Clubs (TFWC) and the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC). Originally formed for self-culture and intellectual development, the clubs initially purposed to help establish public libraries. The mission of TFWC states: “To unite Women’s clubs that encourage the study of literature, current and world events, promote and raise funds for charitable activities, address social issues and provide ways and means for solutions, under the roof of Federation.”

The CSC supported the Comanche Public Library and school libraries when public funds weren’t sufficient.

Now that state and local monies sustain libraries, the club provides a “Story Hour” every Wednesday in June, a tradition spanning forty years. Members read a story followed by a craft or sing-along. For twenty-five years, the ladies made puppets and used The Little Red Puppet Theatre. At first the reading hour attracted around ten children. Now it entertains about fifty children.

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“The members are well-rounded citizens who care about others, who are/have been involved in many other volunteer organizations, who try to follow the precepts of the Federated Collect and Creeds, and who meet to learn and to laugh and to enjoy each other. Each meeting is an opportunity to learn something new.”

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“A COLLECT FOR CLUB WOMEN” Keep us, oh God, from pettiness; Let us be large in thought, in word, in deed.

Let us be done with fault finding And leave off self-seeking. May we put away all pretense and meet each other face to face, without self-pity and without prejudice.

May we never be hasty in judgment and always generous.

Let us take time for all things; Make us grow calm, serene, gentle.

Teach us to put into action our better impulses, Straightforward and unafraid.

Grant that we may realize it is the little things that create the differences, that in the big things of life we are at one.

And may we strive to touch and to know the great, common human heart of us all.

And, oh Lord God, let us not Forget to be kind!”

- Mary Stewart, April, 1904

“THE AMERICAN CREED” I believe in the United States of America as a Government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a sovereign Nation of many sovereign States; a perfect union, one and insepreable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes.

I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to live it; support the Constitution; to obey its laws; to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies.

- William Tyler Page

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With the motto “In Small Things Liberty, In Large Things Unity, In All Things Charity,” the clubs provide many opportunities for self-actualization, developing leadership skills, and promoting social change. Ginger Dudley said, “The members are well-rounded citizens who care about others, who are/have been involved in many other volunteer organizations, who try to follow the precepts of the Federated Collect and Creeds, and who meet to learn and to laugh and to enjoy each other.

Each meeting is an opportunity to learn something new.”

Meetings begin with recitation with the Pledge to the U.S. Flag and the Texas Flag followed by a reading of “A Collect for Club Women” and The Federation and American Creed. Oftentimes the rollcall begins with a question, and the personal answers help members learn more about one another. If someone is tardy, she may be fined ten cents!

As women’s opportunities and rights increased, the club evolved beyond literary studies. The “Woman Problem and the Woman Movement” served as the theme in 1923-24. Following themes focused on Texas and American history and heritage, expanding to include world affairs.

The clubs foster friendships across generations, denominational differences, varied social and vocational groups. Margaret Dudley said she initially joined the club as a young bride. It gave her the opportunity to make friends of all ages, from the 20’s to 90’s, mothers and grandmothers. Lola Barnes joined over twenty years

ago. At first she thought it was a book club, but found it was a great way to get to know and become involved in the community.

The National American Woman Suffrage Association declared that women should have the right to vote because they were different from men. “They could make their domesticity into a political virtue, using the franchise to create a purer, more moral ‘maternal commonwealth.’”

The Federation Creed “Directs me to be of service to my world—it shows me the larger view that lies over the horizon outside of myself.” The club fulfills this directive with community themes such as “Many Talents: Making a Difference” and “Our Ever Changing World through Caring and Sharing.”

Kris Stephens said, “Being a member of Study Club allows me the opportunity to give back to the community through numerous activities. One program that is dear to my heart is our Summer Reading Program held at the Comanche Public Library which I have been a volunteer for over 21 years. Study Club also affords me the opportunity to meet new people and have friends of all ages.”

President Kerry Dudley said community is the umbrella for 2018-2020. The specific theme is “Celebrating and Sustaining Comanche: Synchronizing Volunteers and Business.” The first program, “Public Issues: Fire Department Management,” took members out of the club house into the Fire Station to see firsthand what the volunteers actually do. Other programs will be held at the Comanche Public Library and the Comanche County Historical Museum.

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Future programs will feature Revitalizing Comanche, the Roping Club, the Education Foundation, the Salvation Army, Lion’s Club, Education and Art: Band and Sports Boosters.

“The Federation demands that I feed my family mentally, physically, and spiritually; it urges that I serve my church with steadfast heart.” Many programs offer make and take arts and crafts items and cookie decorating.

Younger women learn from the more mature about how to “give graciously of what is mine—to pour my strength into three great channels of life—my home and family, my church, and my world.” They learn how to properly set a table and how to serve as hostess.

Wilma Fleming, a member since 1985 said her favorite part of the programs is the education, the library programs, the fun, and the opportunities to volunteer.

She said, “This is a wonderful little group of women.”

Originally, the Study Club met in members’ homes.

Now they usually meet in the historic rock house. When the Comanche Girl Scout organization formed in 1946, they needed a “Little House” to hold meetings. The study club owned property at 106 East Neely Street. A tremendous outpouring of volunteers supported fundraisers

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and built the house. The girls themselves varnished the inside walls and windows and made curtains. Study Club members donated a large table that is still in use today.

When the Girl Scouts disbanded, the property reverted back to the Study Club, and they maintain the upkeep, including new tile flooring that features an inlaid star in front of the stage.

Women enjoy the Comanche Study Club as a means of celebrating their diversity as well as their common interests. Leann Hagood, one of the younger members said, “I became aware of the study club from my friendships with Jan Wilkerson and Sheila Stephens and from teaching with several members. I joined thinking it would be a terrific way to become involved in the community and to develop relationships with other women of varying ages and interests in Comanche. Over the years I have attended many meetings which are always interesting, informative, and entertaining. Some of my favorite times are the family picnic and the Christmas meeting. While it is so easy today to google a topic and have instant information, I enjoy hearing topics brought to life by speakers who share their first-hand knowledge and experience.”

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HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS

De Leon Peach & Melon Festival August 7 - 11, 2018

Photography provided by De Leon Peach and Melon Festival Committee and the De Leon Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture

This much anticipated event takes place over the first week of every August. For some 100 years, locals and visitors have enjoyed celebrating the region's magnificent peach and melon farming culture by crowning a Queen, enjoying live music and local vendors, attending a mid-week parade and tractor pull, participating in costume and watermelon seed-spitting contests, a 5K and more.

The tradition created by a combination of century old annual festivals, the De Leon Peach and Melon festival is a cherished event you can count on each year. Thanks to all the people that work hard to make this week so special!

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Photo provided by Cliff Coan and the DeLeon, Texas Area Historical Society

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H I S TO RY

The Soda Shop Words by Jonathan Hooper Photography by Mary Kaitlin Artistry

“Do the stools at the counter spin all the way around?”

Certainly, at The Soda Shop in Comanche, TX they have ice cream and sodas, and even custom cherry limeades. But the only question the soda shop connoisseur must ask regarding a vintage shop is about the stools. If they were stationary, or only wiggled a little, forget it and move on. After all, if you are going to be an authentic soda shop, it is an essential requirement that the stools have to spin all the way around.

It is even better if they make slightly irritating squeaky noises while they spin. Or at least that is the way they worked in 1959 at Hutcherson’s Pharmacy on Granny White Pike in Nashville: the most accurate litmus test for all such venues.

By the way, the answer is Yes. Yes, they do. The stools spin all the way around.

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In both small towns and big cities across America, the soda shop—whether it goes by soda fountain, drug store, or any variety of similar names—holds a special place in our American Story. West Coast shops in Southern California and East coast joints in Brooklyn created the same culture as the “fly-over” shops found in Omaha, Des Moines, or Memphis. The accents might have sounded different, but the goods were the same: ice cream, malts, and boy meets girl.

As the center of socialization for both the teenagers looking for a communal snack and a date, and the youth trying to earn a few bucks for gas money, these bright and cheerful outposts of malts and splits are depicted in hundreds of films, television shows, novels, as well as personal stories for multiple generations. Consider Buster Keaton flipping scoops behind his back; Mickey Rooney falling for Judy Garland; Abbott and Costello solving a murder mystery; a young George Bailey convincing Mary to like coconut; Richie Cunningham finding his thrill at Arnold’s; the 90210 crew hanging out at the Peach Pit; and being Saved By The Bell at The Max!

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Discover or Remember: Days (and Nights) Gone By At one time, there were three such soda joints in Comanche. One by one they disappeared as the times and demographics changed. But today the cultural experience of those days gone by can still be found at The Soda Shop in Comanche. As you would expect, the older generation can’t stay away. Since it opened in the summer of 2018, The Soda Shop has hosted three high school class reunions. A retired couple from Michigan was driving through Comanche, saw the sign, and walked in—before the shop had even opened for business!

“It turns out they were in the middle of a tour of soda shops in the United States and since we had not opened yet, The Soda Shop wasn’t on the list, so they were very excited to be our first visitors!”

But what about the teenagers of today—do they like it as much as the kids from the 40’s and 50’s? In contrast to the “sit and stare at the screen” coffee shop culture, the teens in Comanche and the surrounding area might

enjoy The Soda Shop even more. They sit in groups and talk, and rarely do the cell phones come out. They interact with the older adults, and a vibrant multi-generational community has formed.

“The kids love it. And what’s not to love? We have ice cream, and a place to hang out. That works for every age!”

The Soda Shop does not disappoint the nostalgic time traveler in all of us looking for an accurate depiction of the popular American hangout. Entering The Soda Shop from the comfortable porch through the classic swinging screen doors is a bit like stepping back in time. “Soda jerks” in red aprons, red bowties, and red pre-war era hats (or are those caps?) stand at the ready behind the counter. Multiple tables and chairs invite you to stay for a while. Several period pieces were purchased from a local resident who had once had a soda shop of her own.

Vintage signs line all four walls.

The color scheme speaks to the era, with a black and white checkerboard floor hosting the contrasting red and white chairs. Additional red and black items festoon the walls and ceiling, including a shiny red hood from an

From the aforementioned spinning stools to the vintage 1950’s Hamilton Beach milk shake blender found on eBay, patrons are invited to reminisce while they enjoy the many offerings hiding behind the counter.

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ancient pickup truck, and a black drum set hanging precariously from the ceiling. Owner Sharon McKinnon explains: “The black vintage drum set was donated by a local musician. We cleaned it up, and one of our 80-year-old volunteers who is an electrician wired them up to become our ceiling lights. Those drums are up there for good—they won’t fall down.”

From the aforementioned spinning stools to the vintage 1950’s Hamilton Beach milk shake blender found on eBay, patrons are invited to reminisce while they enjoy the many offerings hiding behind the counter. Of course, sodas and ice cream cones are readily available, as are malts, shakes, floats and banana splits. And smiles. Lots and lots of smiles.

Some things are different today. For instance, the seltzer water and syrup are no longer mixed separately by the “soda jerk” behind the counter. That quaint, yet imprecise model has gone the way of the “three on the tree” manual transmission. Rather, these days the soda and seltzer come premixed, as that original combination no longer exists in our more modern world. A variety of flavors is still available from the vintage-looking

five-handled soda fountain.

There is no juke box blaring out the old hits from Frank Sinatra and Frankie Lane. Bobby sox are long gone as well, somewhere next to poodle skirts and spit curls.

But there is an old phone booth. Everything in it works, except for the phone. They are trying to get the old dial phone to work again, but those parts are very scarce in the digital age. Nonetheless, the kids love it.

“They will show their friends how the doors work, and how light comes on when you close the doors, but they just stare at the dial phone and ask, ‘What is this thing?’

Sprucing Up the Square

“Revitalize Comanche” began in 2015 when a group of Comanche ladies got together to try to beautify the Square.

Higginbotham’s had recently closed and was sitting empty, so the group sent a proposal to Rufus Duncan, the Higginbotham heir, who essentially donated the building and nearby lot to the organization. The rest of the former Higginbotham’s building has been turned into the Comanche Mercantile, a 2,000 square foot country store with an 1800’s

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Take a few moments to slow down from your digital circus. Step back in time and order a custom cherry limeade soda from the nice “soda jerk” in the red apron.

theme. They have additional plans to restore a period log cabin and to create a garden area on that donated lot.

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization functioning under the umbrella of “Revitalize Comanche,” Sharon explains how The Soda Shop works: “We do not have employees. We have volunteers.

Some people just enjoy the activity. We also have a few church groups that volunteer on weekends, and we split the profits with them. They use the money for youth groups and such. It works for everyone.”

The remainder of the profits have been used in many ways around the community. They assist with beautification and landscaping around the square as they originally envisioned, but they also involve special needs children in making crafts, and in metal works projects by the students at Comanche High School.

There is a story behind the soda dispensers as well.

CMBecker is an international beverage faucet com-

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pany located in Comanche with products produced in Germany. They service customers around the world with beverage-related equipment ranging from soda dispensers to home brew taps and the more intricate draft system valves. James Carlson is the local operations manager, and worked closely with The Soda Shop to provide them with drink dispensing equipment. Dr. Gary Easley worked with Carlson to install the modern “bag-in-the-box” mix system.

Take a few moments to slow down from your digital circus. Step back in time and order a custom cherry limeade soda from the nice “soda jerk” in the red apron. Sip it slowly. Watch a banana split be created before your eyes. Then eat it, slowly. There is no rush. You might even say hello to the stranger at the table next to you. Or you might not. After all, you have a slowly-melting banana split in front of you that requires your attention. Enjoy!

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M A R Y K A I T L I N A R T I S T R Y. C O M

S P O R T S

Playing Like a

Girl

Words by Shirley Kidd Dukes | Photography provided by Mark Parker, CHS

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Playing like a girl doesn’t have the same meaning it once did. Today, girls are just as tough as boys, and this team shows it through their dedication, hard work and winning spirit!

W

hen Traci McGinnis came to Comanche in 2012 to teach eighth grade math, she had no idea it would lead her down a totally different path than what she had anticipated. A 1995 graduate of Angelo State, McGinnis had previously coached basketball, cross country, track, softball and volleyball, as well as teaching junior high math, algebra, geometry and math models.

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McGinnis was not the only newcomer to Comanche in 2012. Joining her was Stephen Hermesmeyer, the new Athletic Director at Comanche High School. One of Hermesmeyer’s first tasks as the new AD was to issue a survey to the students inquiring about what sports would interest them. The idea of a volleyball team had been mentioned by parents and students in the past and had been kicked around for a couple of years. Therefore, it came as no surprise to find that there was enough interest in the sport to consider starting a team. Having played volleyball in high school, as well as her coaching experience and the fact that she had experience building a team from the ground up (she had built both the Bangs and Ozona softball programs), McGinnis, who thought she had hung up her whistle when she came to Comanche, was a good choice to undertake this challenge with a group of inexperienced young ladies.

“When I was approached about potentially starting a volleyball program in Comanche,” said McGinnis, “I was excited at giving these girls the opportunity to play a game that seemed like it had been kept out of our area for too long.” In the Fall of 2013, Comanche ISD added volleyball to the program at the junior high and sub-varsity level.

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In 2014 the first district season consisted of only three teams: Comanche, Dublin and Bangs. Without a single district win, the Maidens went into their first playoff appearance against Jim Ned. Losing 0-3 was a tough note to end their first varsity season on, but the very next year Early picked up the sport and joined the district. That year the Maidens were able to pick up their first pair of district wins, and the team continued to grow from there.

While initially met with some resistance, the community grew to appreciate the sport just as much as the girls grew to love playing it. The first year approximately 80 girls on five teams participated at the junior high and sub-varsity level. In 2014 they added a varsity level team, and after an initial outlaw season, the Comanche Maiden volleyball team was able to obtain the consolation title in the Veribest tournament in their first year in Varsity play.

When the third year rolled around, so did a new district alignment. With this adjustment, the Maidens were able to go 8-2 in district play and win not only their first ever district championship, but a bi-district championship over Coahoma as well. They managed to repeat these accomplishments in their fourth Varsity season.

After four years as Comanche’s head coach, both of McGinnis’ children graduated from Comanche and

While many of the girls play multiple sports, the addition of volleyball has given Comanche ISDs sports program another outlet for students.

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she decided it was time to step away from the program.

Coach Kati Stewart was chosen to replace her for the 2018-2019 season.

Comanche ISD is now in its sixth year, five of which included varsity competition. They won back to back district titles in 2016 and 2017, and had playoff wins each year. This year was a rebuilding year for the Maidens, but under Stewart’s tutelage the new team has learned the basics to get them off to a good start for the seventh season.

The team stats so far are: • 2013: Played at JV level only, no Varsity district • 2014: 11 wins, 14 losses, 4th in District, lost in first round • 2015: 9 wins, 18 losses, 4th in District, lost in first round • 2016: 19 wins, 9 losses, District and Bi-District Champions, lost in area round • 2017: 23 wins, 11 losses, District and Bi-District Champions, lost in area round • 2018: 5 wins, 20 losses, no playoffs The sport has been well received by the students of Comanche ISD. They have had good numbers each year, having grown to approximately 15 to 20 students per grade. While many of the girls play multiple sports, the addition of volleyball has given Comanche ISDs sports program another outlet for students.

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The addition of the new sport in Comanche schools also opened up a new opportunity to get the younger students excited and ready to play competitively when they enter junior high. Four years ago, a local youth group began offering fall volleyball to students in grades 3 through 6. The first year the league hosted about 40 players. As interest in the sport at the junior high and high school level grows, so does the interest in the elementary children. This season they boasted 110 players on 12 teams.

“The volleyball program has been a great addition to the fall sports offered at Comanche ISD,” said Athletic Director Hermesmeyer. “It allows girls to compete throughout the summer and fall, and builds skills they can use in basketball, track, and softball. We currently have one young lady playing in college in Kansas.”

As the sport continues to grow at the elementary level, it also will grow at the junior high and high school level. Attend the games and support this enthusiastic group of students as they advance through the years!

Good luck in 2019 Comanche Maiden Volleyball!

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The volleyball program has been a great addition to the fall sports offered at Comanche ISD

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O L D

W E S T

From Humble Beginnings

Words by Daniel Haase | Photography provided by Comanche Chamber of Commerce

The little town of Cora is gone and all but forgotten now, but it had an important role in Comanche County’s early history. A small piece of it still lives on in Comanche.

C

omanche County was established in 1856, during a time when most of the state’s counties were still being defined and organized. The Texas legislature formed Comanche County from parts of Coryell and Bosque counties. As originally drawn, the county was larger than it is today. Comanche County is not named for a war hero or a politician, but instead for the native people who inhabited the prairie near the Brazos and Leon rivers.

Comanche County has had four courthouses over the years. The first courthouse was not in Comanche because the county originally had a different county seat, as was common for about half of

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the counties in Texas.

That first county seat was Cora, situated on the South Leon River, about sixteen miles southeast of Comanche. Cora was established on eighty acres of donated land, laid out in a grid arrangement as a square surrounded by four streets, as was common practice. The town was named for a young lady from Bell County, Miss Cora Beeman. She had no apparent connection to the county other than being an acquaintance of the Comanche County land agent who submitted her name for the town, after the name Troy was rejected. The post office determined Troy was already in use as a town name in Texas.

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Photo by Belden, Dreanna L. for "Photographing Texas" owned by UNT Libraries

Census records indicate that Cora had about one hundred thirty residents, which was about twenty percent of the population of the county at that time. Most of Cora’s inhabitants had moved to Texas from Tennessee. The town was a small thriving community with many talented residents. Among them was a carpenter, a wagon maker, three merchants, a steam mill operator, a miller, and a blacksmith.

As was very common for the day, the small county government operated out of a squarelogged one-room cabin—just twelve feet by twelve feet in size. A structure that small could only contain the bare essentials for operating a county. It is hard to imagine a trial or other necessary legal proceeding in such a small space.

In 1859, the southeast part of Comanche County (along with parts of Lampasas and Bosque counties) was taken to form Hamilton County. This left Cora too far from the center

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of Comanche County to continue serving as the county seat. After less than three years in Cora, the county seat was moved to Comanche.

Losing its role as the county seat was a devastating loss for Cora. The town’s primary reason for existing was taken away and it began to decline in population in just a few short years.

It soon lost its post office. Cora continued to exist for the next few years, but by the end of the century, nearly all traces of the town were gone.

Cora’s log cabin courthouse was abandoned and passed from public ownership to becoming a private residence. For more than twenty years after its construction, it changed hands several times but continued to function as a small home on the original building site. The cabin was moved to a knoll on the banks of the South Leon River in 1880. Its owner doubled it in size by adding an additional twelve-foot by twelve-foot section separated by a small breezeway—a traditional central-passage square-logged house.

The town was a small thriving community with many talented residents. Among them was a carpenter, a wagon maker, three merchants, a steam mill operator, a miller, and a blacksmith.

The Cora courthouse sat next to the river for the next half-century. In 1939, Mack Matthews, who had been born in the cabin in its original location and knew its history, found the cabin and began enlisting support to have the entire structure moved and preserved as a historical artifact. It was carefully moved to the park on the shore of Lake Eanes south of Comanche and necessary repairs were made.

By the early sixties, weather and time had further taken their toll on the hundred-yearold structure, and it was moved once again and additional repairs were made. In its new location, it became part of the county museum

in Comanche. Through the efforts of a number of Comanche County residents, the cabin was designated a Texas Historic Building.

The Cora courthouse structure’s last move occurred in 1983. That year, the Old Cora Commission was formed to oversee the relocation of the little log cabin courthouse to the southwest corner of the courthouse square under the Fleming Oak, another piece of Comanche County history. With the 1986 Texas sesquicentennial approaching, the necessary historical research was done to add descriptive panels to tell the story of Cora and the original courthouse.

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Photo courtesy of RootsWeb

The primitive Cora courthouse is believed to be the only surviving example of a log cabin courthouse in Texas. The majority of Texas counties started out with similar humble beginnings for their county seats. Many of those early cabins were simply abandoned or demolished when the county could afford a grander structure. Being made of wood, those that remained standing deteriorated without upkeep. Even with the earlier efforts made to preserve the Cora courthouse, a substantial restoration was necessary earlier this century.

It has only been in the last forty years or so that most Texans (and Americans in general) have begun to treasure structures from the past and understand their historical significance. Once tangible history like a building is lost, it is lost for good. Preserving history helps give communities an identity. The buildings and the functions they served are part of the fabric of the community and help tell its story. The remarkable efforts by numerous Comanche County citizens to preserve this important part of its formative history began in 1939, making Comanche County clearly ahead of its time.

Comanche County’s history is well-documented in other ways, too. There are over two dozen official Texas historical markers scattered around Comanche County. At least fifteen are within the

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city limits of Comanche, including one for the Cora log cabin courthouse. One Texas historical marker in Comanche is a granite marker, which was installed for the 1936 Texas Centennial. Each of these markers provides a glimpse into the county’s history and in some cases, its notable (or notorious) inhabitants. Many commercial buildings on the Comanche courthouse square also have local historical markers telling of details of their past.

There is a Texas historical marker in Gustine honoring the town of Cora’s role in Comanche County’s development. It is located just north of Highway 36 at Main Street, on a small triangular plot of land, next to a historical marker for Gustine and not far from where the town once stood.

One other piece of tangible history from old Cora still remains, and that is the Cora cemetery.

It is located on private property about three miles from Gustine, but is not visible from the road. There are believed to be fifty-three graves, only eight of which are identified, dating between 1859 and 1893.

In recent years, the cemetery was cleaned up by volunteers and a metal pipe fence placed around it.

The town of Cora may be gone, but its early role in Comanche County’s development is well documented. You just have to explore a little to find it.

History can be an adventure. Taking time to seek it out can be rewarding.

1907 State Map Courtesy Texas General Land Office

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P H I L A N T H R O PY

Taste 325: Comanche Education Foundation Annual Fundraiser Words by Stacy Dudley | Photography by Jessie Evans

The purpose of the Comanche Educational Foundation 501(c)3 is to provide financial resources, community awareness, faculty and staff appreciation, and student recognition to inspire learning.

Founded in 2015 with a generous donation from the Mimms family, as well as Jeff and Dawn Stewart, Comanche Educational Foundation was created to provide scholarships and academic support to our students graduating from Comanche High School.

To date, $67,000 in scholarship money has been awarded to Comanche High School graduates to further their education. In 2017, a new extension of support was created to enhance classroom learning with grants from the foundation to purchase items that are outside the scope of the normal school budget. Innovative academic support includes: new technology and certifications that prepare high school students for educational or vocational endeavors, as well as various academic tools for students with learning differences.

To fund these endeavors the foundation established the Taste 325 dinner and fundraiser. At the first annual event in 2018, enough money was raised to fund $31,000 in classroom grants. 200 guests enjoyed the ultimate open kitchen dining experience at SF Ranch. All the dishes were delicately curated by local chef Todd Sanders who used handpicked Texas products.

Save the date for the second annual Taste 325 on May 4th, 2019 at the SF Ranch just south of Comanche. Please email cef@comancheisd.net for sponsorship or ticket information.

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This is One Cool Guy Words by Rick Mauch | Photography by Ricky Rivas Photography and provided by the Donham Family

D

r. Guyle Donham is a unique individual.

And not only because he still makes house calls - which, in itself, would be enough to qualif y him in one-of-a-kind status.

Actually, that is only one of the reasons Donham is not your ordinary doctor - or person. He also dives with sharks, owns and operates a peanut farm, and in general gets all he can out of life before and after his bout with leukemia went into remission.

"I truly know I'm blessed," he said. "I'm living what I was meant to do. I don't question my career path in life."

First and foremost, Donham is a doctor, dedicated to saving lives and making folks as healthy as he possibly can. If this means packing up his medical gear and making a drive out to their house, so be it.

"We do things the old-fashioned way. We're among the 2 percent in America who still do it that way, but we take pride in it," he said of himself and his fellow doctors and staff at the Comanche County Medical Center.

"We basically see everybody. Once a kid is delivered, we take care of you through your life, unless you move away. But if you move back, we'll take care of you again."

Donham, 46, was born and raised in Rising Star, Texas. He grew up in an environment of neighbors helping each other.

"Dr. Carpenter was my doctor growing up in Rising Star, and you just went to him for everything.

He's what made me want to be a rural doctor," Donham said.

"You live in this community. You shop there.

People see you in the community. They'll come up and you ask them 'How's your mom doing?'"

And, if someone in the community can't make it into the office, Donham brings the office - or himself, at least, to them.

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"Most of the time it's someone elderly. It's easier for me to go see them than it is for them to load up and come into the office."

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"Most of the time it's someone elderly. It's easier for me to go see them than it is for them to load up and come into the office," he said.

Donham is also a regular in nursing homes and works with hospice patients.

"We take care of everything, the heart, lungs, the whole body," he said.

And that includes anyone with anything that walks through the office doors. If he or someone else in his office can't treat it, they'll find someone who can.

"A few weeks ago we had someone come in and it was one of only six documented cases of its kind ever. It was kind of a reaction to a new chemotherapy," he said. "I finally got a guy in Baylor (Medical Center) and he said, 'Yeah, that's what it was.'"

Baylor University, in fact, is where Donham received his undergraduate degree. He went to medical school in Kansas City, followed by resident and intern work in Oklahoma City and Corpus Christi, Texas.

He began his practice in Comanche in 2005. He and his family now live in Stephenville.

Along with his empathetic approach to medicine, Donham has a love for being underwater. He regularly goes scuba diving with friends - and some other buddies, sharks, to be exact.

"He's a good diver. He doesn't make mistakes," said Larry Steele, who regularly goes diving with Donham.

"I don't like sharks, but he enjoys it. And it's fascinating how he gets out there and likes it.

"He's also a very observant diver, more than most. He can find little things, shrimp or a crab, something I'd never see."

Donham said that most of the time sharks leave him alone because they don't like the bubbles coming from his oxygen gear. However, there was this one time in Fiji where they were simply too tempted by something beyond his control.

During a dive, a barrel of chum (bait consisting of fish parts, bone and blood designed to attract sharks) was lowered directly by him. When it was opened, he found himself in the middle of where the sharks were going to be attracted, including bull sharks and tiger sharks.

"All I could think of was feeding cows," he said.

"You know how cows come up to you all at once when they know they are going to be fed? They tipped this trash can and this chum is coming out all over me.

"I had a dive guide right over me, thank goodness. Next to me was a big piece of fish, and I thought I was going to get bit, but he grabbed that piece of fish and threw it away.

"I was thinking I'm halfway around the world, I have two kids, and I'm about to get bitten or killed here. Fortunately, the tiger shark, which was about 17 or 18 feet, didn't come around."

Donham said his love of scuba diving actually comes from growing up on his family's peanut farm.

"I always loved irrigating the peanuts. I've always been fascinated with water," he said. "Then, I found out you could go diving in it. [Following] ..In college I went down to Cozumel." Cozumel remains one of his regular diving spots, along other places such as the Cayman Islands, Honduras and Hawaii.

"You've seen the Grand Canyon on TV and in books, but when you see it in person, it's so much more magnificent, standing on that edge," he said.

"When you're down there with sharks, it's the same thing. It's exhilarating and peaceful at the same time. There are colors you can't see in a picture, and it changes from dive to dive."

"I'm more at peace and relaxed down there than at any other point in my life."

Steele likes to tell of the time diving led Donham to meet astronaut legend, Buzz Aldrin. They were waiting for a pre-dive when opportunity presented itself. "There was a little old man on his cell phone.

Guyle said, ‘That little old man is going to kick our butts!’" Steele said. "Someone told us who he was, so Guyle went over and struck up a conversation."

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"I have never seen anybody get as much out of life. He's always planning ahead."

Steve Thomas is his neighbor and another diving buddy. When they met, both were in for a surprise, they went to the same high school, May. "Turned out we had the same teacher, same football coach, but I was 12 years ahead," Thomas said.

"I refer to him as my Red Solo (from the Toby Keith song "Red Solo Cup" in which he tells the cup they are best friends). When he calls me on my cell phone that's what comes up.

"I have never seen anybody get as much out of life. He's always planning ahead. We'll be sitting at the airport and he'll say, 'Hey guys, I've been thinking we should dive here.' We'll say, 'We can't even get on the plane for this trip first.'"

Donham says of himself that he works hard and plays hard. The hard work includes what he does at the peanut farm he inherited from his family, another one of his great passions.

"There's a huge satisfaction in plowing, smelling the dirt, planting the peanut, you eat them while you harvest," he said. "I can't give it up. I don't make any money, but I get such satisfaction."

"Half of my patients are peanut farmers, so we understand each other."

Some of his patients also help on the farm, which Donham proudly added, produces organic products.

"When I was real small, we didn't have any chemicals in peanuts. I just think it's a better way of doing it," he said, noting that his great grandfather bought the farm during the Great Depression and later became the first person in Rising Star to irrigate.

"I still use some of the land he used," Donham said.

"He was just raised right," said friend Donald Seltzer, who sometimes helps at the farm. "I told his mom and dad he's a good doctor and he's a good man.

"And he loves that farming. I've been helping him since he came back. I think a lot of the man. Everybody around here does."

Though he was sidelined by some chemotherapy as his leukemia, found in 2016, was treated, Donham said it only made him want to get more out of life.

"When you go through something like that, it makes you want to create those memories even more," he said.

"I don't have any illusions of ever retiring. Why would I quit doing what I love to do?"

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In Times of Trial Words by Daniel Haase | Photography provided by Bill Brittain and Jack Rex

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At some time in our lives, we may experience adversity that seems impossible to face. The love and support of a community have the power to get us through times of trial. Sara Rex knows this all too well.

S

ara and Jack Rex have lived through exciting times and heart-stopping moments, probably enough for two lifetimes. They met under the most tragic of circumstances, yet their devotion to each other led by their faith helped them rise above tragedy and has sustained a long, fulfilling marriage together.

In college, Sara felt a definite calling to be a Southern Baptist foreign missionary. At that time, she met Ken Brittain, an aerospace engineer. Ken one day asked her to marry him, and after a lot of soul-searching she said yes, postponing her missionary calling for a time—or so she hoped.

Sara Rex

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Bill and son Jaxton, October 2018, 50th anniversary

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Todd on left, Bill on Right, October 2008 (40th Anniversary of the wreck)

Ken worked for NASA in Huntsville, Alabama and later in Houston. Sara taught in public schools in both cities. Ken later found new employment in the aerospace industry in Albuquerque, New Mexico—the part of the country where he grew up. To him, he felt that he was home. By this point, the couple had two young sons and Sara was a full-time mother.

Life for the young couple was probably fairly routine until the morning of October 2, 1968. Ken was one of four men who were scouting a location for an elk hunt in a small plane. It was meant to be a quick morning flight; in fact, Ken had to be back late in the morning for a work meeting where he was expected to make a presentation.

That meeting never took place. The men never made it home.

Despite a reward for leads, countless hours spent searching on foot by hundreds of volunteers, many aerial searches by the Civil Air Patrol and other groups, assistance from the New Mexico governor, and even a U2 spy plane called in to assist by President Lyndon B. Johnson, nothing of the plane

or the men was found. For a while there was hope, but eventually there was a resignation to the fact that the men were lost.

The epic search effort ranks as one of the largest in New Mexico history. Ultimately, it would be confirmed that they were killed in a plane crash in the mountainous terrain of the Pecos Wilderness in New Mexico, but it would take five long years to find the wreckage and confirm the deaths of the four men.

Sara and the other wives and families of the men on the plane found themselves not only dealing with dashed hopes and the tragedy of losing their loved ones, but with legal complexities related to life insurance claims and other matters. With no confirmation of the deaths of the men, there would be no death certificates for seven years. Sara explained, “It was like being the wife of a soldier missing in action.” This was a grieving process that was occasionally punctuated by a promising lead, only to have that lead fail to bear fruit.

It was two years into this ordeal when Jack Rex and Sara Brittain were introduced to each other by

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Widowed Sara Rex at the plane crash site.

friends. Jack was a part of the search effort, and within a few months, he fell in love with Sara. He proposed and she accepted. They had to get a court ruling declaring Ken presumed dead so they could marry over Thanksgiving 1970. Jack then found himself searching for the husband whose place he took. Jack jokingly told Sara that if Ken were found alive, they would all be sitting down to a very interesting dinner together.

The painful ordeal of dashed hopes, uncertainty, loneliness, and long stretches with no new leads is documented in a book called "The Big One", written by Bruce Gallaher. Gallaher and a friend discovered the crashed plane in 1973 while hiking. He wrote the book after reconnecting with Sara and Jack some 35 years later. In a bit of irony, Bruce Gallaher passed away before its publication.

In Gallaher’s book, he says they encountered a man in the mountains while they contemplated which way to continue on their hike. The man directed them to take an unmapped primitive trail that led to a lake. It was near that trail where the wreckage was found. The area was so remote, they had difficulty finding the plane when retracing their steps for the authorities.

With the crash details confirmed, the Rexes were

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Gallaher and a friend discovered the crashed plane in 1973 while hiking. He wrote the book after reconnecting with Sara and Jack some 35 years later. In a bit of irony, Bruce Gallaher passed away before its publication.

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In Gallaher’s book, he says they encountered a man in the mountains while they contemplated which way to continue on their hike. The man directed them to take an unmapped primitive trail that led to a lake. It was near that trail where the wreckage was found.

able to move on. Life began to resemble normalcy for the first time for the two of them. Jack was committed to raising Sara’s two young sons as his own.

Sara continued to be a stay-at-home mom and she also played piano and organ for their local church.

For a time, she also was involved with a trio of ladies who sang at various churches to her piano accompaniment. Sara played piano and organ for six different churches the Rexes were members of over a forty-year period, including most recently the First Baptist Church of Comanche.

In 1976, as a part of America’s bicentennial celebration, Sara had the unique experience of playing piano with the Albuquerque Symphony and a 150-voice choir in a performance of the patriotic musical I Love America. The musical was directed by one of its composers, John Peterson. Peterson told her she was an incredibly gifted musician. It was one of the highlights of her life.

Jack has always been an adventurous sort, never at a loss for words or without a use for his spare time. In addition to serving on the very first Albuquerque city council and managing four power plants, he spent ten years as a private detective (including a two-week stint as a bodyguard for a lady traveler in South America). He was a serious gold and silver prospector in Mexico, wrote two books about treasure hunting, and has a collection of over 950 types of barbed wire—yes, barbed wire. You

just know he must have a well-worn Indiana Jonesstyle fedora in his closet.

Although they spent most of their marriage in New Mexico, the Rexes returned to Jack’s boyhood home town of Comanche about a dozen years ago to care for his aging parents. Now that Sara and Jack are in their senior years themselves, they may one day move closer to family in the southwest, but for now they remain in Comanche. Their church is an important touchstone in their lives, where they feel the love and support of the Comanche community.

2018 marked the 50th anniversary of the tragic crash that brought Sara and Jack together. On the anniversary month of the crash, with four inches of snow on the ground, Sara and Jack’s son Bill hiked to the site with his nine-year-old son. It was a trip Bill has made a number of times. At more than 11,000 feet above sea level in mountainous terrain, it's not an easy climb to make, leaving climbers short of breath.

While Jack and Sara have experienced more whatifs than most people, tragedy has not defined their lives. They instead grew closer through the strong love and support of their church, friends, and family. Sara has always valued relationships over material things.

Although she never became a missionary, perhaps over the decades she has had just as much impact on others by being an example of how deep faith can help overcome tragedy, loneliness, and loss.

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Holland Chiropractic Clinic Justin Holland, D.C. We’d like to hear from you!

FACEBOOK: LPTaylor Photography INSTAGRAM: lp_taylorphotography EMAIL: lptaylorphotog@gmail.com PHOTOGRAPHERS: Layth & Paige Taylor

325.356.5283 910 N. Austin Comanche, TX 76442 hollandchiropracticclinic.com

817.894.7059

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325-451-4020 littlebearphotographytx.com

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901 Avenue B Brownwood, TX

325-643-2557 H O MET O W N L I V I NG A T I TS B EST

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"Small town Stories are the roots of big ideas."

Where do we start? Well, it would probably be best to dispel the myths surrounding our little enterprise here in the heart of Texas! It has been speculated that we are a government spy agency (think Charlie’s Angels), a secret society of magicians, a group of gypsies running a much larger conglomerate, and our personal favorite, “we aren’t sure what they do, but there always seems to be cars there.” To clear the air, let us tell you our story.

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Every single one of us carries a story. Where you’re from, what you’ve done, who you’ve met all become who you are. We’re inspired by the things we see and do everyday, the people, the places, and their stories... your stories. These stories inspire us to make bold moves, to be the best versions of ourselves, and to make big things happen in a small town. At Root & Roam Creative Studio, we do the same for brands.

Root & Roam Creative Studio was founded by Stacy Dudley in Comanche, Texas, as a place for creatives to gather and collaborate on big ideas, serve small businesses as well as national brands, and to lead by example.

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With over 40 years of combined experience amongst our well curated team, we believe we offer dynamic services to all brands seeking to improve their marketing output. We work collaboratively, knowing the strengths of one another, to create strategic, creative marketing services tailored to each individual client.

We are the marriage of creativity and strategy. We are unlike any other marketing agency you’ve met. And we’re completely okay with that.

Small town stories are the roots of big ideas. We’ll help you leverage your roots everywhere you roam.

Comanche Chamber Guide 2019

Comanche CHAMBER DIRECTORY ACCOUNTING / BANK / LOANS AgTexas Farm Credit Services P.O. Box 812, Stephenville, TX 76401

(254) 965-3151

Armstrong Financial P.O. Box 564, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1211

Central Texas Farm Credit, ACA P.O. Box 310, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1616

Comanche National Bank

Middle Trinity Groundwater Conservation District 930 Wolfe Nursery Road, Stephenville, TX 76401

(254) 965-6705

Sure Grow Ag Products, Inc. 250 CR 416, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1551

Willis Towing & Recovery

First Baptist Church

7171 Hwy 67, Comanche, TX 76442

407 N. Houston, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1439

(325) 356-2051

BARBER / BEAUTY SHOPS

First United Methodist Church

Kirkland Barber Shop

(325) 356-2120

123 W. Grand, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-5103

Live Oak Church

Texas Sodium Bentonite, Inc. 18301 Hwy 16 South, Comanche TX 76442

(325) 885-2339

ANIMAL / VETS

217 E. Grand Ave., Comanche, TX 76442

1551 CR 416, Comanche, TX 76442

(254) 396-1610

Our House of Hair 308 N. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1908

New Life Pentecostal Church 1804 Noth Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

Thairpy 608 W. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-3334

(325) 356-2577

Comanche County Veterinary Clinic

Edward Jones

(325) 356-2711

CHARITIES

CLUB / ORGANIZATION

Conway Veterinary Clinic

Above & Beyond Compassionate Care

Comanche County Area Go Texan

P.O. Box 191, Comanche, TX 76442

207 N. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2528

Prosperity Bank 101 N. Pearl St., Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-7518

JDR CPA LLC 309 Fisk Avenue, Brownwood, TX 76801

1306 W. Central, Comanche TX 76442

1100 Hwy 3381, Comanche TX 76442

(254) 842-8803

AUTOMOTIVE

Caring Hearts for Children

Comanche County Historical Museum

Carl’s Auto Supply 300 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

Susan Riley’s Tax Services

Comanche Towing

Texas Bank 400 W. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-3781

AG NEEDS Gore Bros. Agri-Service 6150 Hwy 67, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2622

Hi Pro Feeds 1300 East Mill, Comanche, TX 7442

306 W. Oak Ave., Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 330-4690

DeBusk Auto Service 401 NW 36, Comanche, TX 76442

Garcia 24-HR Towing and Recovery 1305 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1735

Gayle’s Automotive 502 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-7200

Holland Country Store

RWR Autoplex

6235 Hwy 67, Comanche, TX 7442

7680 Hwy 67/377, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-3471

P.O. Box 22, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-5115

CASA in Heart of Texas P.O. Box 2326, Brownwood, TX 76801

Dairy Farmers of America

(325) 643-2557

3500 William D Tate Ave. Ste. #100, Grapevine, TX 76051

(800) 994-267

Salvation Army 400 Industrial, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-3258

Hope Masonic Lodge #481 604 N. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-5173

(325) 356-5600

(325) 356-3300

617 CR 215, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 370-4924

(325) 356-2518

(325) 356-5274

807 Barnes Ave, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-3355

(325) 646-2573

P.O. Box 766, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2646

12520 Hwy 16 N., Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-5348

(325) 356-6292

The Ark Domestic Violence Shelter

Revitalize Comanche

2900 Coggin, Ste A, Brownwood, TX 76801

(325) 643-2699

P.O. Box 266, Comanche, Texas 76442

(325) 356-9200 (254) 254-8109

CHURCHES Centro De Adoracion Y Alabanza 202 E. College, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 330-1533

Eastside Baptist Church 207 FM 3381, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-3667

COMPUTER MAINTENANCE Apollo Computers 611 Early Blvd, Early, TX 76802

(325) 643-8184

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Legacy IT 104 E. Industrial, Ste “C”, E arly, TX 76802

(325) 643-1961

CONSTRUCTION / DRILLING / CONCRETE Harris Drilling Company, Inc. 7651 Hwy 67/377, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-3586

Hufstutler Construction 1001 N. Houston, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-3916

Ingram Concrete, LLC P.O. Box 1507, Euless, TX 76039

EMPLOYMENT

FOOD

GENERAL

Personnel Services

Chicken Express

Camp Gladiator

3665 Hwy 377S, Brownwood, TX 76804

P.O. Box 356, Bridgeport, TX 76426

1100 CR 305, Dublin, TX 76446

ENERGY

Cook’s Fish Barn

Comanche 4-H Rodeo Club

Atmos Energy

3669 Hwy 36, Comanche, TX 76442

(254) 842-5850

1351 FM 590, Comanche, TX 76442

Dairy Queen of Comanche

Comanche County Roping Club

403 W. Central, Dublin, TX 76446

P.O. Box 818, Comanche, TX 76442

(800) 965-7904

(325) 481-3716

Comanche Electric Cooperative P.O. Box 729, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2533

Hill Gas P.O. Box 100, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1439

CONVENIENT STORE Pop’s Quick Stop

912 Sharp St., Brownwood, TX 76801

EVENT FACILITIES 4 North 125 Mountainview Trail, Comanche, TX 76442

(254) 319-1093

(325) 356-5231

SF Ranch

DEALERSHIP

(325) 842-5563 or (325) 842-8803

Bayer Ford

The Reunion Center

451 CR 215, Comanche, TX 76442

Miguels Restaurant

Comanche, TX Economic Development Corp.

1000 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2032

Mountainview Sweets

KegConnection LLC

141 Mountainview Trl, Comanche, TX 76442

111 South Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

(512) 749-7713

Sonic Drive-In

Kiddie Gardens Preschool LLC

1202 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

SWIGS BBQ & Catering 14365 Hwy 16, Comanche, TX 76442

Los Juanes

505 S Austin St, Comanche, TX 76442 (325) 356-5724

11101 W. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1025

(325) 356-2541

DENTAL

Timmons Exterminating

Comanche Dental

(254) 445-3704

FLORIST

ELECTRICIAN

Comanche Florist

Cool Time Refrigeration

(325) 356-9377

1173 Hwy 2861, Comanche, TX 76442

(254) 967-9998

Sheetz Mechanical Inc. 509 E. Alamante, De Leon, TX 76444

(254) 893-3191

101 W. Grand Ave., Comanche, TX 76442

Wendi’s Cakes

203 Valley Forge St., Comanche, TX 76442

206 N. Clark St., Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 330-0539

FUNERAL Comanche Funeral Home (325) 356-2531

Livingston’s Floral and Gifts

Comanche Oakwood Cemetery Association

(254) 733-7704

(325) 356-3338

Logan’s Gap Wind Pier 1, Bay 3, San Francisco, CA 94111

(415) 283-4000

Middle Trinity Groundwater Conservation 930 N. Wolfe Nursery Road, Stephenville, TX 76401

Premier High School 1008 S. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-9673

HOME / GARDEN CENTER Ace Hardware 204 W. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-3456

411 W. Grand, Comanche, TX 76442

309 W. Grand, Comanche, TX 76442

204 N. Leon, Gustine, TX 76455

303 N. Pearl St, Comanche, TX 76442

(254) 965-6705

EXTERMINATING / PEST CONTROL 2 Briarwood Dr., Dublin, TX 76446

1800 EDC Parkway, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-5904

Tomorrow’s Keepsakes/ The Sweet Life

(325) 356-5263

115 W. Grand, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-5368

(325) 356-5777

Bayer Motor Company, Inc.

1414 North Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2727

(325) 356-2374

(254) 485-6112

(325) 356-5274

200 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

Comanche ISD

112 N. Austin St., Comanche, TX 76442

Melody Oaks Ranch

1107 E. Central Ave., Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2777

Harvest Restaurant

(325) 356-5080

P.O. Box 98, Comanche, TX 76442

The Liquor Store

(254) 979-2092

(325) 641-4428

303 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-9400

(254) 445-2037

(325) 356-5239

Oncor Electric Delivery Co. 7171 Hwy 67, Comanche, TX 76442

(254) 592-5978

1730 N. Main, San Angelo, TX 76903

888-422-4089

Rockin’ R Construction

(325) 356-5100

Comanche Appliance Company P.O. Box 846, Comanche, TX 76442

P.O. Box 362, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2616

(325) 356-2050

Pate’s Hardware 900 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-5251

Sorrells Farms

Ferti-Tex Ag Services

1004 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

1100 E. Central, Comanche TX 76442

(254) 879-4677

(325) 356-5460

MEDIA Blue Sky Entertainment Group 510 Early Blvd, Early, TX 76802

HOUSING

Prater Equipment Company, Inc.

Comanche Housing Authority

P.O. Box 746, Comanche TX 76442

404 E. Cedar, Comanche, TX 76442

(254) 842-5878

(325) 356-3181

SureGrow Ag Products, Inc. Comanche Retirement Village 4 Huett Circle, Bedford, TX 76021

(325) 356-5441

Winchester Arms Apartments 1630 E. Republic Suite F, Springfield, MO 65804

(325) 885-6000

INSURANCE Comanche County Farm Bureau P.O. Box 391, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2591

Goodson Insurance 132 W. Central , Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2589

Loyaltee Insurance Agency 214 N. Houston, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1000

250 CR 416 Comanche, Texas 76442 325-356-1551

LAW Woodley and Dudley Law Offic e

214 N. Houston, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-5759

INTERNET / CELL PHONE Totelcom Networks, LLC 6100 Hwy 16, De Leon, TX 76444

(254) 893-1000

LAND AND EQUIPMENT Biggs Farm Supply

Texas Rural Living, Inc

P.O. Box 1256, Blanket, TX 76432

Clark Tractor and Supply, Inc. P.O. Box 987, Comanche TX 76442

(325) 356-2593

Root and Roam Creative Services

Comanche Pharmacy

P.O. Box 813, Comanche, TX 76442

1001 N. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 455-3130

(325) 356-2585

The Comanche Chief

PHOTOGRAPHY

P.O. Box 927, Comanche, TX 76442

164 W. Graham, Stephenville, TX 76401

(254) 968-0162

MEDICAL

Perfectly Elegant Photography 110 E. 1st, Priddy, Texas 76870

(325) 200-3558

PORTABLE RESTROOMS A+ Porta Kans A+ Storage Containers P.O. Box 1, Stephenville, TX 76401

(254) 978-0325

AccelHealth

LODGING

(254) 893-5895

Can-Doo Portable Restrooms

Comanche County Medical Center

(325) 677-2884

10201 Hwy 16N, Comanche, TX 76442

Cen-Tex Outhouses

America’s Best Value Inn 508 W. Central, Comanche TX 76442

Best Western Comanche Inn 1505 E. Central Ave, Comanche, TX 76442

1100 W. Reynosa Ave., De Leon, TX 76444

(254) 879-4900

Comanche Mercantile

(325) 356-1135

408 N. Austin , Comanche, TX 76442

P.O. Box 266, Comanche, TX 76442

Dr. Raymond W. Stepp P.O. Box 543, Comanche, TX 76442

Hays Manor B&B

1207 E. Grand, Comanche, TX 76442

Texan Restrooms P.O. Box 2497, Stephenville, TX 76401

(254) 965-5646

PROCESSING

(325) 356-3266

Cox Processing

Western Hills Healthcare Residence

(254) 879-3313

400 Old Sidney Road, Comanche, TX 76442

Robertson Bison Meats

603 E. College Ave., Comanche, TX

Indian Creek Lodge

P.O. Box 793, Goldthwaite, TX 76844

(325) 451-0720

(325) 356-2300

(254) 842-8109

(254) 968-2191

301 Goliad Drive, Abilene, Texas 79601

Corner Stone Family Medicine

P.O. Box 685, Comanche, TX 76442

3408 CR 419, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2364

(325) 356-2571

(254) 893-5411

Regency Inn

OFFICE NEEDS

RANCH/DAIRY

Kirbo’s Office Systems

5G Land and Cattle

1301 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2508

P.O. Box 2249, Brownwood, TX 76804

(325) 643-3383

6250 Hwy 67, De Leon, TX 76444

(325) 356-2750

402 West Grand, Comanche, Texas 76442 (325) 356-5276

(325) 642-1031

West Central Wireless P.O. Box 3866, San Angelo, TX 76902

Brookshire’s Pharmacy

(254) 445-2473

TX Pages

900 CR 119, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 646-1591

218 N. Austin, Stephenville, TX 76401

LAWN CARE

(830) 456-2597

(325) 944-9016

KYOX-FM/KCOM-AM

(325) 356-2636

Akin Pest Control & Lawn Care

2202 Hwy 377 S., Brownwood, TX 76801

PHARMACY

P.O. Box 99, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2502

(325) 356-5267

Pam Marwitz Pope Insurance Agency

(325) 232-4984

Workforce Solutions

Rest-a-Spell Hospitality House 801 N. Lane, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 396-6007

The Comanche Chief P.O. Box 922 Comanche, Texas 76442 325-356-2636

1612 Summit Ave. Suite 350, Ft. Worth, TX 76102

(817) 313-4854

Dudley Bros. Ranch P.O. Box 10, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2284

Matthews Family Farm 2405 Summit View Dr., Bedford, TX 76021

(817) 268-1612

SERVICES CIMA Abstract Company (325) 356-1086

451 CR 215, Comanche, TX 76442

Wildcat Dairy 600 CR 252, Gustine, TX 76455

(325) 667-7266

REALTY Armstrong Real Estate Danny Armstrong P.O. Box 564, Comanche, Texas 76442

(325) 356-1211

Comanche Co. Healthcare Foundation P.O. Box 634, Comanche, TX 76442

(817) 279-2255

Huddleston Surveying & Mapping P.O. Box 39, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2267

Jackson Construction

Jimmy’s Creek Gide Service 4417 Hwy 1689, Sidney, TX 76474

(325) 356-0012

Full House Realty 406 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(254) 842-8731

Kameron W. Mazurek, PLLC 207 N. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1199

Prime Country Real Estate 701 W. Central Ave., Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1766

Texas Rural Living Kellar Williams Clint Tunnell P.O. Box 1256, Blanket, Texas 76432

Little Paws Grooming 2581 CR 304, Comanche, TX 76442

(254) 842-8723

207 N. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

Par Country Club 1658 Hwy 2861, Comanche, TX 76442

Nicky’s Small Engine 210 W. Mulberry Ave, Comanche, TX 76442

801 E. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

Race Day Event Services P.O. Box 122, Gustine, TX 76455

202 W. Wrights Ave., Comanche, TX 76442

(972) 898-5126

(325) 330-0860

907 W. Paine Ave., Comanche, TX 76442

(469) 693-6046

604 E. Central Ave, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1115

801 N. Lane, Comanche, TX 76442

94

206 N. Clark St., Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 330-1213

Conway Welding (325) 356-3442

David’s Custom Metal Art Work

Brennan Vineyards

407 N. Victor, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 330-0131

Durham Pecan 308 S. Houston, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-5291

117 W. Grand, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 330-3601

1107 E. Central Ave., Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-5274

1509 E. Central Ave., Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2480

Unique Antiques and Collectibles 210 N. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 642-0573

Cowpoke Storage

Signs Express Plus

Raccoon Enterprises

CO MANCHE CO U N T Y LI V I N G

BarTex Welding Services

WINERIES

P.O. Box 61, Comanche, TX 76442

(254) 918-7446

WELDING

(325) 356-3248

(325) 356-3999

1592 E. Hwy 8, Stephenville TX 76401

1401 Haven Dr., Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-2271

402 W. Central, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 330-1452

SF Ranch

451 CR 215 Comanche, Texas 76442 254-842-8803

TROPHIES

7051 Hwy 67, Comanche, TX 76442

Brookshire’s

STORAGE Root & Roam Creative Services

425 Hwy 3381, Comanche, TX 76442

Amanda Baehler-Scentsy

(325) 356-3830

201 Hwy 2247, Comanche, TX 76442

Comanche Trails R.V. Park, Inc.

SHOPPING

Tractor Supply Pro Nails

Southern AG Carrier

Woolsey Trophies

(325) 330-0182

Breezy Hill RV Park (817) 201-0096

(325) 356-1439

The Liquor Store

(254) 879-2295

RV PARKS

7171 Hwy 67, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-1199

(254) 978-0325

RECREATIONAL

Willis Towing & Recovery

Granny’s Place Mazurek & Holliday, PC

TRANSPORTATION (325) 356-1201

905 E. Cedar, Comanche, TX 76442

Central Texas Realty Mart (325) 356-5285

(325) 356-1200

Barbed Wire & Lace

(325) 330-0316

P.O. Box 429, Comanche, TX 76442

200 S. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

207 N. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

SF Ranch (254) 842-8803

U Name It

P.O. Box 432, Comanche, TX 76442

(512) 635-0628

802 S. Austin, Comanche, TX 76442

(325) 356-9100

Photos by Gerald McLeod, McLeod, The The Austin Austin Chronicle Chronicle

Comanche IMPORTANT NUMBERS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (325) 356-3233

Comanche County Appraisal (325) 356-5253 Comanche County Clerk

CITY HALL

(325) 356-2655

(325) 356-2616

Comanche County Commisioner

FIRE DEPARTMENT

Comanche County Sheriff ’s Office

(325) 356-2112

(325) 356-2466

(325) 356-7522 Comanche County Tax Assessor Collector

POLICE DEPARTMENT (325) 356-2222 ***For an Emergency Call 911***

(325) 356-3101 Comanche Senior Citizens Center (325) 356-5023 Driver’s License Office

POST OFFICE

(325) 356-3222

(325) 356-3363

Texas State Senate District 24 Senator Dawn Buckingham

MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT (325) 356-2032

(325) 643-1646 Texas State House District 59 Representative J.D. Sheffield (512) 463-0628 Texas Representative Michael K. Conaway (202) 225-3605

96

CO MA NCHE CO UN T Y LI V I N G

Comanche OUTDOOR PARKS & REC

COMANCHE CITY PARK • • • • • • • • •

Walking tour of tree sculptors Hiking trails around park with natural wild life to see Skate park Soccer fields Swimming pool Pavilions for picnics Baseball fields Children play areas Slides, teeter totters, monkey bars, swings and much more

HIGH SCHOOL • • • •

Tennis courts open to public Basketball courts Soccer fields Volleyball nets

LAKE PROCTOR • • • • • • • • • • • •

Water skiing Fishing Boat ramps for the public Boating Horseback riding trails Nature trails Camping RV hook ups Pavilions for family reunions Cabins for rent Fishing supplies close to lake Restaurants and convenience stores nearby

COMANCHE COUNTY ROPING ARENA • Open for riding your horses • Open for events

COMANCHE COUNTY FAIR GROUNDS • Livestock shows

PAR GOLF COUSE • 18-hole golf course located at Lake Proctor • Bar and restaurant at Par Golf course

H O MET O W N L I VI NG A T I TS B EST

97

Comanche MEETING FACILITIES > COMANCHE COMMUNITY CENTER

Will seat approx.150 people with tables and chairs (Main Room).

Full kitchen facilities available. 3 bathrooms. NO ALCOHOL or smoking.

Contact: City Hall at 325.356.2616

> COMANCHE CITY PARK

Located at the West edge of Comanche just South of Hwy 67/377.

Lots of beautiful trees, playground areas, and restrooms. 3 large covered pavilions available ~ $50 each.

Advance reservations required for guaranteed space. Campground also in City Park with water & electricity $20 per 24 hour period.

Contact: City Hall at 325-356-2616

> BRENNAN VINEYARDS

Three areas are available for rent: The McCrary House, the Winery, and the Austin House. The Austin House is a 4,000 sq. ft. building designed for events for approx. 25-250 people.

Contact: 325-356-9100

> PAR COUNTRY CLUB

Located at 1658 Hwy 2861 on Lake Proctor (Approx. 8 miles east of Comanche). 300 people. Large dance floor. Table & chairs provided. Kitchen available or catering. 4 bathrooms.

Beautiful views. Plenty of parking.

One night or weekend rates available.

Advance reservations with deposit required for guaranteed booking.

Contact: 254-879-2296

> MELODY OAKS RANCH

Located in Priddy. 7,000 sq. ft. meeting room ~ tables and seating for 300 ~ full kitchen Heating & air conditioning, outdoor barbecue facilities and porch ~ Special weekend packages available. RV hookups, outdoor amphitheater, horseshoe pits.

Contact: Gayle at 325-356-5231 or 325-330-0336

> BEST WESTERN Meeting room, holds 30 people, tables, and chairs. NO ALCOHOL AND NO RENTAL after 6 pmLocated At: 1505 E. Central Contact: 325-356-2300

> TAQUERIA LOS JUANES PARTY ROOM

Contact: 325-356-5724

> REUNION CENTER Located south of the square at 111 South Austin on the first floor of the Historic Veterans Memorial Building. The 4000 sq. ft. reunion facility includes kitchen, restrooms; performance stage and a single large meeting area which can easily accommodate up to 150 people.

Table, chairs and table cloths provided.

Contact: Mary Boyd 254-592-1911

> THE GATHERING PLACE

Will seat up to 100 people ~ tables & chairs ~ dining table ~ Full kitchen facilities with 2 complete stoves, microwave oven, 2 bathrooms.

Contact: Carolyn Merworth 325- 356-5285 or 254-842-7581

> COMANCHE HOUSING AUTHORITY

Main room will seat approx. 100 people ~ tables & chairs ~ full kitchen ~ 2 bathrooms. Deposit required. Contact: 325-356-3181 98

CO MA NCHE CO UN T Y LI V I N G

TO FIN D O U T M O R E AB O U T TH E CO M MU N ITIES O F CO M AN CH E , VI S IT U S AT CO M AN CH ECHA M B ER .O RG

> PROCTOR

COMMUNITY CENTER

3 rooms available, all 3 will hold 100 people, full kitchen, tables and chairs provided. NO SMOKING OR ALCOHOL

> THE HARVEST RESTAURANT 1

> TOMORROW’S

12 N Austin St, Comanche, TX 76442

KEEPSAKES AND THE SWEET LIFE

Contact: 325-356-2374

101 E Grand Ave Comanche, TX 76442

> SF RANCH BED

Contact: 325-356-1025

AND BREAKFAST

> GUSTINE

Contact: 325-667-7553

122 N Austin St, Comanche, TX 76442

Heating & air conditioning, outdoor barbecue facilities and porch ~ Special weekend packages available.

RV hookups451 CR 215 Comanche, Texas 76442

Contact: 254-319-1093

Contact: 254-842-8803

Contact: Trevlin Strong 254-879-2758

> 4 NORTH

EVENT CENTER

> ROCKIN J

COMMUNITY CENTER

> TEXAS BANK CONFERENCE ROOM

Contact: 325-356-3781

1308 E Central Ave, Comanche, TX 76442 Contact: 325-356-1955

H O MET O W N L I V I NG A T I TS B EST

99

advertisers CC L | VO L . I 2 01 9

Please thank these advertisers for making this publication possible!

CASA........................................................................................ 85 Clark Tractor & Supply.................................................. 2, 57 Comanche Chamber of Commerce.......Inside Back Cover Comanche County Abstract.............................................21 Comanche County Historical Museum...........................3 Comanche Electric Cooperative... Inside Front Cover Comanche Florist................................................................ 65 Comanche Livestock Exchange.................................... 56 Comanche National Bank.............................. Back Cover Country Chic Bridal.............................................................37 De Leon EDC.................................................................... 10, 11 Farmers & Merchants Bank.............................................. 13 First National Bank............................................................. 29 GreenFox Marketing Solution..........................................75 GreenFox Wraps...................................................................74 Holland Chiropractic Clinic.............................................. 85 Little Bear Photography................................................... 85 LP Taylor Photography..................................................... 85 Mary Kaitlin Artistry........................................................... 47 Melody Oaks Ranch........................................................... 56 Prime Country Real Estate.............................................. 64 RPG Water Catalyst............................................................ 65 Samantha Rodriguez Photography.............................. 84 Sorrells Farms....................................................................... 65 Southern Belle Dairy...........................................................57 Stockman Western Wear................................................. 64 Suregrow Ag Products...................................................... 65 The Goodson Agencies......................................................... 1 Totelcom.................................................................................... 7

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CO MANCHE COUN T Y LI V I N G

Explore comanche texas

Where you can find everything Comanche.

January - May • • • • • •

Comanche City Wide Garage Sale Texas Motorcycle RoadRiders State Rally Comanche County Livestock Show Gustine Homecoming and Rodeo Comanche Gospel Music Jamboree Food Truck Rodeo

June - August • • • • • •

September

Comanche County Dairy Breakfast Jams in June Concert Series Shopper’s Day 77th Annual Comanche Open Rodeo Rodeo Parade Veterans Display

• • • •

Comanche County Pow-Wow Tribal Trot 5K Comanche County Car Show Barnie McBee BBQ Cook Off

October - December • • • • • • • •

Historic Downtown Trick or Treat Steve Clemons Deer Hunter Chili Supper Veterans Week Celebration Comanche Co. Christmas Lighting Contest Cora’s Christmas Lighted Parade Shopper’s Day Christmas Homes Tour

Hunting Lease List Available at ComancheChamber.org Historic Comanche Depot P.O. Box 65 304 South Austin Comanche, TX 76442

325-356-3233 www.ComancheChamber.org

100 E. Central | Comanche, TX 76442 | 325-356-2577

www.comanchenational.com