Welcome to Wise 2024

Welcome to Wise

Gone Fishin’

This year’s cover of Welcome to Wise features one of the county’s hidden jewels: Black Creek Lake on the LBJ National Grasslands. It’s the perfect place to relax while getting back to nature. Our young fisher is Asher Counts, and our “more experienced” fisher is Lannie Noble, a member of the Decatur Rotary Club which sponsors the annual Kid’s Fishing Derby the first Saturday in June at the lake each year. You can find out more about the LBJ National Grasslands inside this issue.

This year’s Welcome to Wise visitors and newcomers guide is all about positive action.

Welcome

Gather, Relax and Celebrate at our annual events and festivals.

Dine, Sip and Savor what our local restaurants and bars have to offer.

Uncover, Regale and Capture the tales and history at our local historical and artistic landmarks.

Splash, Play and Discover in the great outdoors at the many recreational opportunities.

Shop, Enjoy and Explore the great indoors at local retail stores, museums and places to have fun while enjoying the AC.

As many places and events that we’ve included in this year’s edition, there’s even more to discover for yourself, whether you are visiting for a few days or staying a little longer.

This year’s guide also includes information on local community groups, history, elected and appointed officials, social services and general information about the county as well. You’ll also find information about the 12 incorporated cities and our smaller communities that make up our county.

And don’t forget to visit the many local businesses who advertise in this section and help make this free guide possible.

In the spirit of positive action, we invite you to sit, read and enjoy this year’s edition of Welcome to Wise.

Brian Knox Special Projects Manager

Wise County Messenger

Wise County Messenger Staff

Roy J. Eaton

President/Publisher

Kristi Bennett

General Manager

Lori White

Advertising Manager

Austin Jackson Editor

Brendan Marchand

Assistant Editor

Brian Knox Special Projects Manager

Micah McCartney Sports Editor

Mack Thweatt Editorial

Laura Belcher

Advertising Sales

Sandy Crump

Advertising Sales

Jenifer Kozlowski

Advertising Sales

Alexis Towery Classifieds

Hannah King Graphic Artist

Jim Bob Hampton

Subscriber Services

David Sherman

Subscriber Services

Tony Grimes

Subscriber Services

Bill Bowyer

Subscriber Services

About Bridgeport Quarry

1443 S Hwy 101 • Chico, Texas 76431

In 2016 Heidelberg Materials Bridgeport quarry won the pinnacle awards for an aggregate producer. We were presented the gold award for community relations by the National Stone and Gravel association. Heidelberg Materials is an old neighbor in Bridgeport, but boasts one of the most modern and innovative aggregate operations in the country. Although the plant has been operating in Wise County since 1936, a totally new plant was completed in 2006, boosting Heidelberg’s production capability, and giving the facility a unique combination of environmental controls which sharply control dust and water pollution. The plant, located approximately three miles north of Bridgeport on State Highway 101, is looked upon as a model in the industry, and has drawn the attention of aggregate operations across the country.

Our Products

Heidelberg Materials – Bridgeport Quarry produces aggregates (crushed stone and sand) that are an essential part of our daily lives. These products are vital to a healthy, growing local and regional economy.

*They are in nearly all residential, commercial and industrial building construction and in most public works projects including roads, highways and bridges; railroad beds; dams; airports; water and sewage treatment facilities and systems; and tunnels.

In Our Community

As one of the area’s leading companies, Bridgeport Quarry is committed to its role as a leading corporate citizen.

Here are a few examples:

• TItle Sponsor for Wise County United Way Golf Tourney

• Sponsor of Eighter from Decatur Food Truck Challenge

• Sponsor of Bridgeport Chamber Skeet Shoot

• Supporter of Project Graduation events in Wise County

• Supporter of Local Booster Clubs and Youth Teams

• Active Member in several area Chambers of Commerce

• Provide educational field trips to schools in Wise County as well as in the DFW Metroplex

• Supporter of Wise County Youth Fair and Local Buyer’s Club

Economic Impact

Bridgeport Quarry is one of the largest industrial enterprises in Wise County, employing 130 full-time workers.

· In addition to being the largest taxpayer in Wise County, comprising a signicant percentage of the county and schools operating budgets each year, Bridgeport Quarry operations pump millions of dollars into the local economy.

· Because of transportation costs, it’s important for construction aggregates to be readily available near major markets. Aggregates are most commonly used within 50 miles of their place of extraction. That means that communities near quarries benefit from lower prices on construction of homes, buildings and roads than those that need to transport aggregate from other areas.

· There are more than 10,000 aggregate quarries nationwide and 70 percent of all counties in the United States produce aggregates, according to the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association.

Dine Sip Savor

Eats, Treats and Drinks Flavor Wise County

Whether it’s elevated southern dining, hole in the wall burger joints, dessert destinations or fancy watering holes, Wise County offers a unique culinary scene that will indulge even the pickiest of palettes.

Biscuits, gravy and a hefty side of town gossip can be found throughout Wise County’s cafes. Top spots include Whistle Stop Cafe and Brandi’s Country Kitchen, which are each ripe with southern hospitality and sweet, syrupy charm. Warning: You may be called “darlin’” and leave full.

If you’re looking for an on-brand Wise County lunch experience, try Greenwood Grocery, a classic burger joint that has been frozen in time. It’s essentially the fictional town of Mayberry condensed into an eating establishment. Also check out Giant Burger, a fan favorite in the Wise County Messenger Reader’s Choice contest or Rooster’s Roadhouse. If you want Tex-Mex, Wise County has you covered. Some of the top spots are Dos Chiles in Bridgeport and Boyd and Casa Torres in Decatur. And if you’re looking to get great tacos and go, hit up Primo’s Taqueria in Decatur. For Italian, try the new Dovini Italian Bar & Grill or Pronto’s Italian in Bridgeport or Verona’s and State Street Pizza in Decatur.

When you make dinner plans, Sweetie Pie’s Ribeyes on the Decatur Town Square offers a classic family dining experience. Trinity Street hit the Wise County culinary scene this year, offering upscale southern dining, exquisite service and craft cocktails, plus the ambiance to match. The Chilean sea bass at Trinity Street is a must, but if your hunger hopes take you further south, you need to go try gogo gumbo! Located off Texas 114, gogo gumbo! has been affectionately called the “fancy place in Boyd,” in Dallas-Fort Worth publications. This restaurant has a reputation that precedes it and a can’t-skip dessert menu.

Sip

Savor

If you think rural communities and nightlife don’t mix, you’d be wrong in Wise County. While there aren’t necessarily clubs, there are several great bars to hop that often host live music and other entertainment. Halsell Street is a onestop shop for drinks. There, you can make your very own whiskey at Oak and Eden’s flagship location, or just enjoy some of their critically acclaimed hits in a beautifully decorated environment. Also be sure to try Locality Craft Cocktail Bar, Marker Cellars Winery, 47 or Halsell St. Coffee & Cocktails all nearby. In Downtown Decatur, visit the County Seat, an intimate watering hole located in the shadow of the Wise County Courthouse. Also check out Rooster’s Roadhouse, Ezra Zion Cigar Bar and the Chief Cigar Lounge.

In our opinion, the best cookies you can buy in North Texas are brought to life at Butter Bean Baking Co. in Downtown Decatur. If you’re bringing kids or grandkids around the historic square, Hey Sugar is always a hit, with a bright and colorful display of candy and ice cream. Speaking of ice cream, Scoop Dawg in Alvord and Cold Wave creations on Halsell Street in Bridgeport are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. But yes, this is small-town Texas, so Dairy Queen is always an option.

Youngs Tank, Inc.

Uncover Regale Capture

Snap a Photo at These Local Landmarks

Whether it’s historic buildings, enduring legends or creative works, make sure you preserve the memories of your trip at these photo-worthy locations.

Uncover

Some of Wise County’s hidden architectural treasures are found off the main roads. Step back in time with a visit to the Texas Tourist Camp and Petrified Wood Station on South Business U.S. 81/287 at the corner of Hale Avenue. This local landmark which is featured in the National Register of Historic Places has stood for nearly 100 years. It features an old Texaco gas station, cabins which once provided rest for weary travelers (including notorious outlaws Bonnie and Clyde, according to local legend) and a lunchroom which now houses the Whistle Stop Cafe featuring some of the best homestyle cooking around (try the pies!) Be sure to check out the information kiosk at the gas station to learn more about the Meridian Highway which once passed through Wise County.

While you’re in the area, be sure to drive up the road just a bit and head east on Main Street to the Waggoner Mansion, or “El Castile.” The 16-room, two-story home was once the headquarters for the famous Waggoner Ranch. The structure includes eight bedrooms, five marble baths and eight woodburning stoves has been called “an excellent example of Texas’ finest Victorian masonry architecture.” The home is privately owned and not currently open to the public.

Regale

If you’ve ever sat around the campfire and heard tales of alien encounters or exploits of prohibitionera gangsters, Wise County is home to the final resting places for a couple of notorious characters. On April 17, 1897, a cigar-shaped airship supposedly crash-landed in Aurora, taking out a windmill and scattering debris around town. Townsfolks reportedly found a body of an alien and gave him a proper burial at Aurora Cemetery. Today, you can find the unmarked grave by looking for a large rock (which usually includes a few trinkets left from previous visitors) under a tree on the south side of the cemetery.

Visit Cottondale Cemetery to find the grave of one of the country’s most notorious outlaws, Machine Gun Kelly. He kidnapped Oklahoma City oil tycoon Charles Urshchel July 22, 1933, wielding a machine gun and brought him back to his in-law, Robert “Boss” Shannon’s farm near Paradise where he was held for $200,000 ransom. Kelly was later arrested and convicted in the plot and died 21 years later in Leavenworth while serving his prison sentence. His family in Illinois wouldn’t claim his body, so the Shannons buried him in their cemetery plot in the northwest quadrant of the cemetery.

Capture

Those looking for the perfect shot can find colorful murals or art installations at several locations around the county. Downtown Decatur includes multiple options, including the “Greetings from Decatur” mural and “Eighter from Decatur” dice sculpture, a phone booth which is usually decked out in a seasonally-appropriate manner, the vintage Majestic theater marquee or an historic Coca-Cola advertisement painted on the side of a building, just to name a few.

Downtown Bridgeport also features a number of murals painted by local artists, including ones that pay tribute to the city’s rich history and another which could give you angelic wings.

THE WISE COUNTY COURTHOUSE

Enjoy Explore Shop

The Great Indoors

Wise County offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures, but it also has plenty of destinations that don’t require sunscreen. Here are some great spots to escape the Texas heat for retail therapy and entertainment in Wise County.

Shop

Finding the perfect outfit is easy in Downtown Decatur or Halsell Street in Bridgeport. Boutiques line the historic downtown square and street on the opposite sides of the Big Sandy Creek.

Decatur shops — Swanky Shack, Cowgirl Crap Boutique, 287 at the Majestic, White Heat and That’s So Fetch — are always on trend. For the kiddos, there’s Texas Gold Minors, a kids clothing shop that also has a great selection of toys. Halsell Street’s shops include clothing, boutiques and more. The to-do list includes: Cool Creek Art Gallery, Terra Cotta, Secondhand Sorrell, The Bronze Peach, The Hope Chest, Outskirts, Downtown Darlin’, Spunky Sisters Designz, Maria’s Flower & Gift Shoppe and Classic Florist & Gifts. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind antiques and knickknacks, you found the right place. Treasure hunters seeking diamonds in the rough should scope out Main Street Mall, Nooks N’ Crannies and Nanna Anna’s in Decatur. If you take a trip north or south on U.S. 81/287, you should check out Red Rooster near Alvord or Wind Chime Antiques and Treasures near Rhome.

Enjoy

You can’t have dinner and a movie without the movie. Decatur’s Plaza Cinema 4, a locally owned and operated theater, is a great way to enjoy a blockbuster. All normal tickets (non-3D) are under $10, and the popcorn, candy and drinks are a steal, too. Depending on when you visit, you can catch live shows at the Arcadia Theater in Bridgeport. Also check out performances from local ballet companies and dance/theater troupes at Decatur High School. If you want to be on the move while enjoying air conditioning, give the local roller skating rink, Decatur Skate a try. For those who would rather keep their feet firmly planted on the floor while relieving a little stress when heading into the weekend, give axe throwing a try at Rusty Axe Games.

Explore

An underrated way to spend your day in Wise County is touring one of its many museums. Wise County Veterans Memorial Museum, operated by the Wise County Veterans Group, contains exhibits that chronicle the history of wars and conflicts in our country. The museum also salutes the role Texans, and particularly Wise County residents, played in our nation’s history. The Paradise Museum features an exhibit on Machine Gun Kelly and other items of interest. At the Bridgeport Heritage Museum, interactive exhibits and historic artifacts tell the story of Bridgeport’s history. Located in the lower floor of the Bridgeport Visitors Center, the museum features exhibits about the Butterfield Stagecoach days, oil and gas exploration and coal mining.

Restore Preserve Rebuild

Wise County Works to Restore, Preserve and Salvage History

Don’t be shocked when you tour Decatur in search of century-old architecture. Two of the county’s most cherished buildings are in the midst of restoration and rebuild efforts. A March 2023 fire was a somber reminder that history can be destroyed. Now, there’s a renewed energy to making sure that Wise County’s story is preserved for centuries to come.

Restore

The Wise County Courthouse, completed in 1896, is currently an active construction site. The icon on the Downtown Town Square is being restored to its original design, with modernization of key infrastructure to keep the building relevant for decades to come.

There are some key differences you might notice on the exterior of the building. Dark slates have been installed to match the original roof, and a shiny new finial has been placed atop the building. Soon, a new elevator will be installed, replacing the lift that obscured the view to the top of the courthouse.

The interior is where the most substantive transformation is taking place.

The courthouse has always been a show-stopper as people walk around the square. However, the interior felt a little dreary and cramped after multiple remodel projects in recent years.

Now, the work is bringing back the courthouse’s grandeur, inside and out.

The construction effort is bringing back the original molding, paint colors, custom windows and fixtures. The most jaw dropping change is the lifting of the ceiling to restore the original design of the district courtroom. For those who have had the opportunity for a sneak peak, it is truly a sight to behold and one that will be worth the wait.

That’s not to mention adequate fire suppression, new HVAC and other upgrades to make the courthouse more functional in the future.

Wise County Judge J.D. Clark said the project is currently on schedule, with the massive historical courthouse restoration project expected to be completed by the start of 2025.

Rebuild

On March 18, 2023, flames tore through the Wise County Heritage Museum, leaving a husk of the former Decatur Baptist College Administration Building that housed the museum.

This was a tremendous loss for the community. Most of the artifacts could not be salvaged, but there is an effort actively underway to save and rebuild at least a portion of the building. After a selective demo project to safely access the site, the Wise County Historical Society is working with architects on potentially rebuilding the first floor of the original stone building.

In the meantime, the historians are operating out of an office in Decatur, continuing its work to preserve Wise County history.

Preserve

While much was lost in the museum fire, many artifacts have been recovered, and there has been a renewed effort to make sure that Wise County’s history is never forgotten. This spring, the Wise County Historical (WCHS) Society held a special “Out of the Fire” exhibit at the Decatur Visitors Center. The exhibit showcased items recovered at the Wise County Heritage Museum. The salvaged items included discharge papers, Purple Heart medals and other cherished artifacts. Earlier in the year, WCHS presented a portrait of a late member of the Lost Battalion that they figured was lost in the blaze. The effort to honor the Lost Battalion are also visible from the roadways leading into and out of Wise County. In 2023, the portion of U.S. 380 between Decatur and Jacksboro was dedicated to the hundreds of Texas soldiers, many of whom were from Wise County, who were held as prisoners of war in Japan for 42 months during World War II. The purpose of the designation was to ensure that their service to their country is never forgotten.

FOUNDATION THERAPY

In Office:

• ABI

• ECHO

• Chemicals & Exercise Stress Test

• Cardiac Clearance for all Medical and Dental

• Cholesterol Management

• High Blood Pressure Treatment

• Heart Rate Management

• Aneurysm & Aortic Problem Treatment

• Non-Healing Wounds and Ulcers

• Heart Failure Treatment

• Stroke Prevention

• Advanced Lifesaving Heart Intervention

• Treating Heart Disease

In Hospital:

• Stents for Heart and Leg Blockages

• Structural Heart Disease

• Varicose Vein Ablation

• Heart Catheter

The fundamental mission of the Decatur Chamber Of Commerce is to generate more business activity for the community and local business owners. The Decatur Chamber initiates more business-to-business commerce and opportunities for networking and connecting local professionals than is available through most other local organizations. W hether you are a new or established business, we are here to support your business. It’s our goal to provide members with opportunities to develop their businesses and become more profitable. We are convinced that being involved and building relationships will result in the growth of your business. Your Success is Our Business!

cover Spla Play DiS Sh SplaSh Play DiScover

SPLASH

Fresh Air Living

Wise County is home to several outdoor recreational locations filled with fun for the whole family. Whether you’re seeking thrills or chills, here are some of our suggestions.

If you’re looking to get in the water, look no further than Wise County Park, located at 372 County Road 1638 in Chico. Sitting on the banks of Lake Bridgeport, the park features a swimming area (no lifeguards), boat ramps with piers and fishing. It also has a walking/nature trail, picnic tables, small and large pavilions and a playground.

PLAY

Wise County Park also offers camping opportunities with 24 RV sites, a rough camping site, public restrooms and showers.

The annual Ronnie Brooks Memorial Kids Fishing event is held the first Saturday in June at Wise County Park. For additional information, visit www.co.wise.tx.us.

Searching for a thrill ride? Load up your family in your Jeep and bring your off-road vehicles to the Northwest OHV Park, located at 279 George Mitchell Parkway in Bridgeport.

Several local enthusiast groups helped convert 300 acres of land to establish the off-road park. The park officially in 2009 as a place for fun with ATVs, motorcycles, Jeeps, Hummers and more.

The park will also play host to the City of Bridgeport’s “Jurassic Journey” event this spring.

The drive-through adventure features 25 full-size, animatronic dinosaurs along a 2-mile trail throughout the park. The event runs March 6 through April 19, with tour availability Thursdays-Sundays and the entire week of Bridgeport ISD’s Spring Break.

Don’t have a tricked out off-roading Jeep? No worries. Most standard vehicles have the capability for making the prehistoric adventure. All persons entering the park must sign a waiver available at the park gatehouse or online. The park’s 25+ miles of trails are marked by degree of difficulty. All vehicles are required to remain on designated routes and trails.

Currently, the park is open Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about the Northwest OHV Park, call the City of Bridgeport’s Parks and Recreation Office at 940-683-3480 or visit cityofbridgeport.net.

DISCOVER

Nestled between Decatur and Slidell, Eagles Canyon Raceway (7629 Farm Road 51 North) also offers an outlet for those with a need for speed. Eagles Canyon Raceway is a private 2.7-mile road course built to Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) specifications, featuring 15 total turns, over 200 feet of elevation change and a half-mile long back straight — a playground for motorsport enthusiasts to drive at the limit.

The venue hosts performance driving days known as IPD, APD and race craft schools where drivers young and old are encouraged to learn more about the capabilities of their car and develop a higher level of skill than comes from traditional driving schools. These events are open to both members and non-members of all driver skill levels.

Wise County is also home to the LBJ National Grasslands, a land area of more than 20,000 acres named after former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson.

The Grasslands not only provide grazing land for cattle and habitat for wildlife, but offer a variety of recreation — including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, mountain biking, wildlife viewing and photography.

There is one developed recreation area at Black Creek Lake. It consists of seven picnic units, seven walk-in camp units and one improved boat ramp.

The diverse habitats of the Grasslands include white-tailed deer, small mammals, coyotes, bobcats, red fox, waterfowl, bobwhite quail, turkey and songbirds. The lake’s catch consists of largemouth bass, blue and channel catfish and various sunfish species.

Hunting is limited to shotguns, muzzleloaders and archery. The discharge of firearms and hunting is prohibited on and around the lake.

A great day to visit is the Kids Fishing Derby at Black Creek Lake, held annually the second Saturday in June.

FEBRUARY

• Antique Auto Swap Meet

• Daddy Daughter Dance

MARCH

• Wise County Youth Fair

• Chisholm Trail Antique Farm Equipment Auction

• Vintage Market Days NRS

APRIL

• Glitzy Girls Trailer Park

• DJWC Chunk It For Charity Washer Tournament

• The Spring Event (Home & Lawn)

MAY

• Cruise Nights on the Square

• Eighter Food Truck Challenge

• Decatur Celtic Festival

JUNE

• Juneteenth Gathering

• Cruise Nights on the Square

JULY

• Wise County Reunion

AUGUST

• Taste of Wise

SEPTEMBER

• Cruise Nights on the Square

• Eighter Bicycle Rally

• Decatur Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament

OCTOBER

• Cruise Nights on the Square

• National Night Out

• Paint the Town Pink

• Boo Bash

• DJWC Golf Tournament

• Lighthouse Ministries Cornhole Tournament

NOVEMBER

• Decatur Swirl

• Lucky 7 Shopping

• Small Business Saturday

• Christmas Tree Lighting

• Veterans Day Events

• Turkey Trot

DECEMBER

• Lighted Christmas Parade

• Moonlight Madness

• Wise County Toy Run

• Woman’s Club Tour of Homes

• Breakfast with Santa

• Wreaths Across America

• Santa on the Streets

Decatur Town Square

Decatur Town Square

Halsell Street

Renée C. Smith

FACOG

Heather Stark

Wise County Cities

Alvord

GOVERNMENT

Caleb Caviness is Alvord’s mayor. The city council also includes Brian Hatzenbihler, Christopher Quintana, Dawn White, Andrew Ballinger and Dewayne Sherwood, who is mayor pro tem.

The city council meets 6 p.m. the third Thursday at City Hall, at 215 W. Elm St.

City administrator is Troy Gregg. City secretary is Delise White, and assistant city administrator/finance director is Martha Nivens. Public works director is Jerry Anderson.

~ 940-427-5916 • alvordtx.gov ~

SERVICES

The Wise County Sheriff’s Office provides police protection for the city.

~ 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies ~

The city is served by the Alvord Volunteer Fire Department. Heather Redder is interim fire chief.

~ 940-427-3361, or 911 for emergencies • alvordfire@cityofalvord.org ~

The Alvord Public Library, at 109 N. Wickham St., is open Tuesday through Saturday. ~ 940-427-2842 • alvord.ploud.net ~

PARKS AND RECREATION

Alvord’s Elm Creek Park, 1078 E. Business U.S. 81/287, includes a tennis court, pavilion, baseball fields and upgraded playgrounds, including one covered in a shade canopy.

The Alvord Area Veterans Memorial Park is also at Elm Creek Park.

unique park benches made of old truck beds, and a weekly list of food trucks is published on the Gateway Food Truck Park Facebook page.

The Oak Hill Raceway, 1636 County Road 1270 near Alvord, is equipped for dirt bikes and other ATVs. A schedule of times and days the track is open is posted on the facility’s Facebook page.

~ 817-726-0653 • oakhillmx.com ~

ANNUAL EVENTS

~ Easter Eggstravaganza • Alvord Watermelon Festival • Alvord Hometown Christmas Market • Alvord VFD Fish Fry ~

EDUCATION

The Class 2A Alvord Independent School District has four campuses: elementary, intermediate, middle school and high school.

School board members are Jim Looney, Lance Thweatt, Russell Rice, Daniel Ruddick, Mark Gose, Travis Taylor and Aaron Moore. Superintendent is Dr. Randy Brown.

Administration office ~ 185 S. Mosley Lane • 940-427-5975 ~

Alvord High School

~ 1049 W. Bypass U.S. 81/287 • 940-427-9643 ~

Alvord Middle School ~ 300 Bulldog Way • 940-427-5511 ~

Alvord Intermediate School ~ 1238 E. Bypass 287 • 940-427-9638 ~

Alvord Elementary School

The Gateway Food Truck Park, 106 N. O’Neil St., opened in April of 2024. The park features

~ 711 W. Stadium Drive • 940-427-2881 • alvordisd.net ~

Aurora

GOVERNMENT

Bryan Dolan serves as mayor, and Ron Pellegrini (Ward 3, Seat 2) is mayor pro tem. The city council includes Bill McCurdy (Ward 1, Seat 1), Larry Naugle (Ward 1, Seat 2), Kristin Cline (Ward 2, Seat 1), Deb Terrell (Ward 2, Seat 2) and Bill Cooke (Ward 3, Seat 1).

City council meetings are 7 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays, held at Aurora City Hall, 320 Derting Road.

Aurora is currently interviewing candidates for its vacant city administrator position. City secretary is Lisa Ledbetter.

~ 817-636-2783 • auroratexas.gov ~

SERVICES

The city is protected by the Wise County Sheriff’s Office

~ 940-627-5971 ~

Boyd, Newark and Rhome volunteer fire departments respond to calls.

~ For emergencies, call 911 ~

~ Water is available along the Texas 114 corridor through the City of Aurora. Aurora Vista is serviced through Southwest Water. The southwest quadrant, including Glider Base, is serviced by Palo Duro.~

EDUCATION

Most of Aurora’s students are in the Northwest Independent School District, and some attend Boyd ISD.

~ 817-215-0000 • nisdtx.org ~

BRIDGEPORT QUARRY • 972-647-7200 • 1795 South Hwy 101 • Bridgeport, TX

NORTH BRIDGEPORT QUARRY • 960-644-5080 • 125 N. Bridgeport Lane • Chico, TX

Our mission statement explains our company’s reason for existence. It describes who we are and what we do. It supports our vision and communicates our purpose and direction to all of our stakeholders.

As a leading provider of natural resource-based building materials, Martin Marietta provides the foundation upon which our communities improve and grow.

Our vision statement describes our company as it would appear in a future state. It drives our company’s decisions and goals and challenges and inspires our employees.

Our goal is to build a world-class organization committed to the longterm success of our employees, communities and other stakeholders.

Our values describe our beliefs and behaviors. They guide our decisionmaking and establish standards upon which we can assess our actions. They create a moral compass in our business dealings for both the company and its employees. They support the vision.

• SAFETY -- We are uncompromising in our commitment to the safety and health of our people and the community.

• INTEGRITY -- We will do the right thing by adhering to our core values and ethical business principles.

• EXCELLENCE -- We are committed to being a role model through responsible innovation and continuous improvement.

• COMMUNITY -- Our strength and success is derived from our people and the relationships they build within our neighborhoods and cities.

• STEWARDSHIP -- Our responsibility is to make the world better today and for future generations.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:

Here are a few examples:

Donations to City Parks and Recreation and Local Fire Departments Lions Club and United Way Sponsors Member of local Chamber of Commerce

Hosted educational field trips for schools in the area and First Responders for the county Donated 110 baskets for the Senior Rehab center patients in Bridgeport

MARTIN MARIETTA WELCOMES YOU TO WISE COUNTY

Boyd

GOVERNMENT

Rodney Holmes serves as mayor, and Randy Adams (Ward 1, Place 1) is mayor pro tem. Council members include Eric Frisinger (Ward 1, Place 2), Martin Cole (Ward 2, Place 1), Jimmy Young (Ward 2, Place 2), Aaron DePino (Ward 3, Place 1) and Adrian Zgoda (Ward 3, Place 2).

The council meets 6:30 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays at Boyd Community Center, 420 E. Morton Ave.

City hall is at 731 E. Rock Island Ave.

William Taylor is city administrator, and assistant city administrator/city secretary is Daniel Bourgeois.

~ 940-433-5166 • cityofboyd.com ~

SERVICES

The Boyd Police Department employs 13 full-time officers. Jason Schmidt serves as police chief.

~ 940-433-8400 ~

The Wise County ESD No. 1/Boyd Fire Department provides protection to the city and surrounding areas. Jason Paradise serves as fire chief.

~ 940-433-2085, or call 911 for emergencies ~

PARKS AND RECREATION

Boyd has three city parks.

Yellowjacket Park, at the corner of West Dunlap and North Evans, includes a basketball court.

James Snodgrass Park, 501 W. Hobbs Ave., includes a playground, volleyball court, pickleball/ tennis court, walking trail and a pavilion.

The R.T. Brooks Youth Sport Complex, 601 W. Hobbs Ave., includes a baseball field, softball field, T-ball field, walking trail and picnic tables.

The 4,280-square-foot Boyd Community Center, 420 E. Morton Ave., includes a full-service kitchen, banquet tables and chairs, a stage and space to accommodate up to 150 people.

~ 940-433-5166 ~

The Boyd Senior Citizens Group meets at 420 E. Morton Ave. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

~ 940-433-5166 ~

The Boyd Raceway, 376 Raceway Lane, south of the city is a quarter-mile, semi-banked dirt track

that hosts races with stock cars, modified cars, sport modified cars, hobby stock cars and mini stock cars.

~ 817-901-5525 • boydraceway.com ~

River Valley Motocross, 733 County Road 4757 near Boyd, offers an outdoor dirt track and a kids/ beginner track.

~ 817-932-3333 • facebook.com/rivervalleymx ~

LOCAL POINTS OF INTEREST

The Wild Animal Sanctuary Texas, 3901 Texas 114 between Boyd and Aurora, provides a permanent home for animals such as tigers, bobcats, cougars, lions and bears. The sanctuary is no longer open to the general public, but active financial supporters of the organization are welcome to visit on special days or weekends by appointment.

~ (254) 826-6500 • wildanimalsanctuarytexas. org ~

ANNUAL EVENTS

~ Easter Egg Hunt • Boyd America Bash • Halloween Trunk or Treat • Cookies and Hot Chocolate with Santa ~

EDUCATION

The Class 3A Boyd Independent School District has four campuses — elementary, intermediate, middle and high school.

Superintendent is Tom Woody. School board members are Kyle Erwin, Kenneth Shepherd, Krista Barber, Dusty Lamance, Aaron Lambert, Jeremy Lambert and Trae Luttrell.

Administration office ~ 600 Knox Ave. • 940-433-2327 • boydisd.net ~

Boyd High School

~ 700 Knox Ave. • 940-433-9580 ~

Boyd Middle School ~ 550 Knox Ave. • 940-433-9560 ~

Boyd Intermediate School ~ 550 Knox Ave. • 940-433-9540 ~

Boyd Elementary School

~ 500 E. Morton Ave. • 940-433-9520

Bridgeport

GOVERNMENT

Randy Singleton is Bridgeport’s mayor. City council members include Preston Brown, Bobby Rodriguez, Susan Coffman, Sylvia Ramirez and Matthew VanHoose. Council meetings are held 6 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays at city hall, 900 Thompson St.

Jean Dwinnell is city secretary.

~ 940-683-3400 • cityofbridgeport. net ~

The Bridgeport Police Department provided law enforcement services to the city. Steve Stanford is police chief. ~ 940-683-3430 or call 911 for emergencies ~ Fire protection and first responder services are provided by the Bridgeport Fire Department. Travis Nokes is fire chief.

~ 940-683-3445, or call 911 for emergencies ~

The Bridgeport Municipal Airport, 299 L.V. Selz Rd., provides alternative transportation to the general aviation public. Paul Walsh is the city contact. ~ 940-683-3430 ~

Bridgeport Public Library, 2159 10th St., has 36,000 books, magazines, audiobooks, newspapers, DVDs, and videos available for use by the public. Computers with internet access are available to the public. Marisol Cano is library services director.

~ 940-683-3450 ~

PARKS AND RECREATION

The Bridgeport City Pool, 1106 8th St., offers a place to cool off during the summer. It has been recently updated with new amenities. Hours for summer 2024 are 1 to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

~ 940-683-3480 ~

The city operates five public parks.

Harwood Park, 707 Hovey St. near downtown, includes playgrounds, pickleball courts, picnic tables, pavilion, a walking trail, lights, barbecue grills, open play area, horseshoe pits, a sixhole disc golf course and restrooms. The pavilion may be reserved for events.

~ 940-683-3480 ~

Payne Park, 409 W. Cates St., features a covered skate park, picnic tables, playground equipment, community garden, open play area and restrooms.

Lawdwin Ball Fields, 1102 Lawdwin Ave., consists of 13 acres including two baseball fields, one softball field, a small multi-purpose field, and a multipurpose field used for spring soccer and fall football.

Champions Park, 724 Hovey St, has a basketball court, workout equipment and a fitness obstacle court.

Endeavor Bridgeport Adventure

Park, the home of the Northwest OHV Park is north of town off of Texas 101 at 279 George Mitchell Pkwy. It includes an ATV park and hiking and biking trail system. Hiking and biking trails are open seven days a week. The Northwest OHV Park is open Saturdays

and Sundays 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the summer and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the winter.

~ 940-683-3480 • cityofbridgeport. net/northwestpark ~

The city has two facilities that host various community events and can be rented by the public for events of up to 200 people: the Bridgeport Community Center 1102 Lawdwin Ave., and the Arcadia Theater, 1009 Halsell.

~ 940-683-3480 ~

The Bridgeport Country Club, 250 Farm Road 2123, features a spacious 5,983-yard, nine-hole golf course with Bermuda greens. It is open seven days a week.

~ 940-683-9438 • facebook.com/ BridgeportCountryClub/ ~

VISITING

The Bridgeport Visitor Center, 812 Halsell St., provides information on local attractions and history. It also serves as the home of the Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce and the Bridgeport Heritage Museum. The center also showcases the replica Abbot & Downing Concord Coach, which represents the city’s history and its title as “Stagecoach Capital of Texas.”

~ 940-683-2076 ~

Bridgeport is a Texas and National Main Street City, and the program sponsors special events throughout the year that promote economic development and chronicle the community’s colorful history.

~ 940-683-3404 ~

Bridgeport

The Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce’s motto is to serve the economic growth of their members while advocating for business advancement, economic growth and job creation for the benefit of Bridgeport. The chamber is staffed by Executive Director Nathan Byers and Accounting Manager Vanessa Arnold. Membership luncheons are held 11:30 a.m. every third Thursday at Weatherford College Wise County. ~ 940-683-2076 ~

LOCAL POINT OF INTEREST

The mission of the Center for Animal Research and Education (CARE) provides for the rescue, rehabilitation and holistic nurturing of sick, injured and abused big cats. CARE is home to snow leopards, cougars, leopards, lions, tigers, a bobcat, ring-tail lemurs and llamas. CARE, 245 County Road 3422, is also dedicated to efforts to learn from the animals’ natural behaviors, instincts and habitats and to learn and practice techniques to enhance the quality of life for big cats in captivity. ~ 940-683-8115 • carerescuetexas. com ~

ANNUAL EVENTS

~ Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce Banquet • Valentine’s Day Date Night on Halsell • Daddy-Daughter Dance • St. Patrick’s Day on Halsell • Easter Eggstravaganza • Cinco De Mayo Celebration • Butterfield Stage Days • Mother/Daughter Tea Party • Christmas in July Jeep Festival • Middle School Pool Party • Taste Bridgeport •

Heritage on Halsell • Spooktacular Fall Festival • Suit Up and Say Boo • Santa and the Stagecoach • Lights on Halsell Christmas Parade • Holidays on Halsell • Breakfast with Santa ~

EDUCATION

The Class 4A Bridgeport Independent School District has a high school, middle school, intermediate school, elementary school and alternative learning campus.

Dr. Amy Ellis is superintendent. School board members include Jim Bost, Charles Mauldin, Duane Sutherland, Kailynn Hudson, Scott Hiler, Terry Rye and Richard Vidal.

Administration office ~ 2107 15th St. • 940-683-5124 ~

Bridgeport High School ~ 1 Maroon Drive • 940-683-4064 ~

Bridgeport Middle School ~ 702 17th St. • 940-683-2273 ~

Bridgeport Intermediate ~ 1400 U.S. 380 • 940-683-5784 ~

Bridgeport Elementary ~ 1408 Elementary Drive • 940-6835955 ~

Bridgeport Alternative Learning Center

~ 1101 17th St. • 940-683-1830 • bridgeportisd.net ~

Chico

GOVERNMENT

Colleen Self serves as mayor. The city council includes Jimmy B. Counts, Jack Souther, Jamie Gunstanson, Hannah Huffman and Ronnie McGuire.

The council meets 6:30 p.m. the first Tuesday (and, if necessary, third Tuesday) at city hall, 400 S. Hovey.

Rhonda Richey is city secretary.

~ 940-644-2435 ~

SERVICES

The city has a small police department and is also served by the Wise County Sheriff’s Office.

~ 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies ~

The Chico Volunteer Fire Department provides service to the city and surrounding areas. Joshua Richey serves as fire chief.

~ 940-644-5302 ~

The Chico Public Library, 106 W. Jacksboro St. on the historic town square, offers programs and activities for people of all ages year-round. It is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

~ Contact: Michelle Slonaker • 940-644-2330 • chico.ploud.net ~

The Chico Chamber of Commerce meets the second Tuesday at the Chico Senior Center with an executive/business meeting at 10:30 a.m. followed by the regular meeting at noon with lunch and a speaker. It also sponsors the annual Chico Fest and provides scholarships to graduating Chico High School seniors.

~ Chico Texas Chamber of Commerce on Facebook, wisecountychamber.com/chico/ ~

PARKS AND RECREATION

M. Robinson Park, at the corner of West Sherman and Buffalo streets, includes a play area for kids, two gazebos, skate park and a basketball court.

Jewel Park, on Farm Road 1810, features baseball fields.

Tucker Park, behind city hall at 400 S. Hovey, features a playground.

Wise County Park, at 372 County Road 1638 on the north end of Lake Bridgeport and west of Farm Road 2952, offers three, two-lane boat ramps with ample parking, restrooms, handicap access, picnic areas, RV hookups, fishing, tent camping, playground and walking/nature trail.

~ 940-644-1910 • co.wise.tx.us (under the “Public Works” heading) ~

The Chico Senior Center is at 201 S. Buffalo St.

The Chico Veterans Memorial, which honors those who have served our country, is taken care of by local 4-H students and is located on the town square.

ANNUAL EVENTS

~ Easter Egg Hunt • Chamber of Commerce Banquet • Classic Car Show • Chico Spring Fest • Pack Your Backpack Event • Chico Fest • Trunk or Treat • Reverse Christmas Parade • Pancakes with Santa ~

EDUCATION

The Class 2A Chico Independent School District has three campuses — an elementary, junior high and high school.

School board members are Chance Earp, Jada Grooms, Steven Cox, Tim Raley, Kyle Grimes, Ubaldo Garcia and Chris Laney. Randy Brawner is superintendent.

Administration office

~ 503 W. Sherman St. • 940-644-2228 ~

Chico High School ~ 263 Farm Road 2952 • 940-644-5783 ~

Chico Middle School ~ 1205 W. Sherman St. • 940-644-5550 ~

Chico Elementary School ~ 1120 Park Road • 940-644-2220 • chicoisdtx. net ~

Decatur

GOVERNMENT

Mike McQuiston serves as mayor, and Melinda Reeves is the mayor pro tem. Council members are Eddie Allen, Darlene Hilton, Jake Hayes, Debra Jackson and Will Carpenter. The council meets at 6 p.m. the second and fourth Monday at Decatur City Hall, 201 E. Walnut St.

Nate Mara is city manager. City secretary is Asucena Delgado.

~ 940-393-0200 • decaturtx.org ~

SERVICES

The Decatur Police Department provides 24-hour protection for the city. Police Chief is Delvon Campbell. ~ 940-393-0300 ~

The Decatur Fire Department is the only full-time fire department in the county. Fire Chief is Deroy Bennett.

~ 940-393-0230 ~

The Decatur Municipal Airport has been in existence since 1914, making it the oldest airport in the state. One mile north of town on Farm Road 730, it features a 4,200-foot by 60-foot runway with a 17,000-pound dual wheel weightbearing capacity.

~ 940-627-2855 ~

Decatur, Wise County and the surrounding area is served by Medical City Decatur, 609 Medical Center Dr.

~ 940-627-5921 • medicalcityhealthcare.com ~

The Decatur Public Library, 1700 S. Farm Road 51, offers a mix of education, literature, technology and collaborative experiences for all ages. It is open Monday through Saturday.

~ 940-393-0290 • decaturpubliclibrary. com ~

VISITING

The Decatur Visitor Center, 106 S. Trinity, is a great place to begin your visit to town. Located in a historic, refurbished post office, the building houses the Decatur Main Street office of Manager Frieda Lasater. Tours of the historic courthouse can also be provided by Lasater by appointment. Visitors can find information about Decatur and Wise County, including maps and other resources for the area.

~ 940-399-9558 • decaturmainstreet. com ~

The Decatur Chamber of Commerce office is at 106 S. Trinity. Misty Berry serves as executive director. Charlotte Fitzgerald is president.

The Chamber holds membership lunches at 11:30 every fourth Tuesday except June, July and December at the Decatur Conference Center.

~ 940-627-3107 • decaturtx.com ~

The Decatur Conference Center, 2010 U.S. 380 W., is a 27,000 square-foot multi-use facility that hosts a variety of events large or small. The center offers both on-site and off-site catering. It offers the 107-room Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott located at the DCC site, allowing the center to host multiday events and conventions.

~ 940-393-0280 • decaturconferencecenter.com ~

PARKS AND RECREATION

Decatur has six parks that provide a place to play, relax or reflect.

Kenny Renshaw Park, off FM 51 South, features an outdoor gym, two softball fields, two soccer fields, a pavilion, a playground and a concrete walking trail.

Harmon Park, at the corner of East Mill and South Church streets, features two youth baseball fields and a new playground that’s always packed. The city is also planning to build a new skatepark at the site.

Hollis and Sue Jones Park, at the end of Country Club Road, is the largest of the city’s parks and includes two basketball courts, a baseball field, softball field, playground, soccer/football field and an 18-basket disc golf course. The newest addition is a covered pickleball court complex.

Louida “Big Mamma” Willis Park, at the corner of North Arthur and Brown streets, features a playground, sandbox, swing set and picnic tables.

Melba Doyle Park, at the end of Melba Doyle Park Road off Chico Road, features a six-basket disc golf course, swings, picnic tables and shade trees.

The Wise County Veterans Memorial Park, at the corner of E. Ash and N. Trinity streets, is lined with brick pavers that hold the names of 1,500 veterans. It also features a pavilion and the “Path of Sacrifice and Valor” commemorating American conflicts. The park hosts numerous veterans events each year.

The Decatur Golf Club features a nine-hole course that is mostly open with trees lining the outside of a few fairways. The club at 211 Country Club Dr., is open six days a week (closed Mondays).

~ 940-627-3789 • decaturgolfclub.com ~

Decatur

The OWLS Activity Center, 1200 N. Miller St., hosts free lunches for anyone 60 or older Monday through Friday. The center is operated by the Wise County Committee on Aging Activities. The center also offers outreach to Spanish-speaking seniors through its Abuelitos Unidos del Condado de Wise (Grandparents United of Wise County) program. Activities at the center include bingo, 42, quilting events, arts and crafts and a book club. They also host exercise events, feature guest speakers and occasional live music.

~ 940-539-0188 • MealsOnWheelsWiseCounty.org ~

ANNUAL EVENTS

~ Decatur Swap Meet • Daddy-Daughter Dance • Easter Brunch • Glitzy Girls Trailer Park Event • Decatur Celtic Festival • Eighter Food Truck Challenge

• Mother’s Day Brunch • Juneteenth Celebration • Summer Concert • Put Yo Money Where Yo Mouth Is Washer Tournament • Eighter from Decatur Bicycle Rally • National Night Out • Paint the Town Pink • Chamber of Commerce Auction • Boo Bash • Holiday Open House • Decatur Swirl • A Touch of Rust Vintage Craft Show • Thanksgiving Day Brunch • Turkey Trot • Lucky Seven • Courthouse Christmas Tree Lighting • Moonlight Madness • Decatur Woman’s Club Tour of Homes • Breakfast with Santa • Santa on the Streets ~

SEASONAL OR RECURRING EVENTS

~ Cruise Nights • Saturdays on the Square • Girls Night Out ~

EDUCATION

The Class 4A Decatur Independent School District has four elementaries, a middle school and a high school. Interim superintendent is Dr. Karen Rue. School board members are Scott Koehler, Stan Shults, Sandra Schneider, Jeremy Duncan, Delvon Campbell, Matt Joiner and Nate Bayless.

Administration office ~ 307 S. Cates St. • 940-393-7100 ~

Decatur High School

~750 East Eagle Summit Dr. • 940-3937200 ~

McCarroll Middle School

~ 1201 West Thompson St. • 940-3937300 ~

STEM at Enis Elementary

~ 1200 Eagle Dr. • 940-393-7475 ~

Carson Elementary School

~ 2100 Bus. 81/287 South • 940-3937500 ~

Rann Elementary School

~ 1300 Deer Park Rd. • 940-393-7600 ~

Young Elementary School

~ 379 Buchanan Road • 940-393-7400

• decaturisd.us ~

Victory Christian Academy

~ 600 W. Mulberry St. • 940-626-4730

• victorychristianacademy.org

*not included in Decatur ISD ~

G. KEITH GILL, M.D.

Board Certified Orthopedic Surgery

Fellowship Trained Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery

GET TO KNOW DR. GILL

• Loves sports, especially golf

• Follows the Mavs, Rangers, Cowboys and Texas Tech

• Is a night owl

• Lives in Haslet

• Father of two beautiful girls

• Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine

• Shoulder and Knee Arthroscopy

• Shoulder and Knee Replacement

TROY CHANDLER, P.A.-C

• Partial Hip Replacement

• Pediatric and Adult Fracture Care

Board Certified Physician Assistant with 20 Years Experience in Orthopedics

GET TO KNOW TROY

• Loves all types of music

• Enjoys hunting, fishing and lifting weights

• Happily married father of three

• Follows the Dallas Cowboys and Mavericks

• Native North Texan

Dual Board Certified Foot and Ankle Surgeon Podiatrist GET TO KNOW DR. INGLIMA

• Loves coaching his four kids in sports

• Lives in Haslet with his wife, 2 daughters and 2 sons

• Enjoys fishing, camping and spending time with family

• Is fluent in Vietnamese

• Loves following BYU sports in the Big XII

• Ankle Sprains/ Strains/ Fractures

• Ankle Arthroscopy and Ankle Replacement

• Heel Pain

• Bunions and Hammertoes

• Achilles Pain/ Injuries

• Diabetic Limb Salvage ROBERT ACHILIKE, M.D.

Fellowship Trained Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery GET TO KNOW DR. ACHILIKE

• Dallas native

• Loves weight lifting, playing basketball and volleyball

• Follows Dallas Mavericks, Stars, Cowboys, Texas Rangers and UT Longhorns

• Likes to sing and dance salsa

Lake Bridgeport

GOVERNMENT

Nick Bilby serves as mayor. City council members include Andy Smith, Tiffany Dendy, Chris Loe, Sherry Pewitt and Pete Casalegno.

Wanda Vick is city administrator/secretary.

City council meetings are held at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday at city hall, located at 301 S. Main St.

~ cityoflakebridgeport.com 940-626-9783 citylkbport@gmail.com ~

SERVICES

Water service is provided by the West Wise Special Utilities District.

The Lake Bridgeport Volunteer Fire Department serves the city and surrounding area. Willie Garrett is fire chief.

The Wise County Sheriff’s Office responds to calls in the city.

~ Phone: 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies ~

EDUCATION

Lake Bridgeport is part of the Class 4A Bridgeport Independent School District.

~ 940-683-5124

bridgeportisd.net ~

New Fairview

GOVERNMENT

John Taylor is mayor. The city council includes Harvey Burger, Steven King, Alisa Scheps, Sarah Adams and Peter Kozlowski.

Council meetings are held 7 p.m. every first and third Monday at City Hall, 999 Illinois Lane.

City administrator is John Cabrales Jr. Susan Greenwood is city secretary. Joshua W. Barnwell is public works director. Renee O’Neill is court administrator/city secretary.

~ 817-638-5366 newfairview.org ~

SERVICES

The city is protected by Boyd Police Department per an interlocal agreement.

~ Phone: 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies ~

The New Fairview Fire Rescue serves the New Fairview area. Arne Wissman serves as fire chief.

~ Phone: 940-626-8094 ~

EDUCATION

New Fairview students attend either Decatur ISD or Northwest ISD.

Decatur Administration office ~307 S. Cates 940-393-7100 ~

Northwest Administration office ~ 2001 Texan Drive, Justin 817-215-0000 ~

Newark

GOVERNMENT

The mayor is Crystal Cardwell, and Christopher Raines is mayor pro tem. The city council includes Jennifer Hill, Nathanial Butler, Richard Sidebottom, and Melanie Payne. The council meets 7 p.m. every third Thursday in the council chambers at Newark City Hall, 209 Hudson Street.

City secretary is Jenni Moore.

~ 817-489-2201 • newarktexas.com ~

SERVICES

The Wise County Sheriff’s Office responds to law enforcement calls within the city. ~ 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies~

The Newark Volunteer Fire Department serves Newark and the surrounding areas. Jerry Taylor is fire chief.

~ 817-489-2331 • newarkvolfiredept.com ~

The Newark Public Library, 207 Hudson Street, offers a variety of educational services to the community. Visit the Newark Public Library Facebook page for library hours.

~ 817-489-2224 • newarktexaspubliclibrary.weebly.com ~

The Newark Community Center is in the city hall building, 209 Hudson Street.

~ Phone: 817-489-2201 ~

PARKS AND RECREATION

The Delora Doughty Royal City Park at the corner of Central Avenue and McCanne Street, located directly across from the Newark Fire Hall, features a playground, gazebo and barbecue grill.

Newark Town Square Park is located outside city hall, 209 Hudson Street.

South Wise County Park, west of the city on County Road 4873, features a public boat ramp, picnic tables and lots of shore line for bank fishing.

ANNUAL EVENTS

~ Newark Crusin’ Days fall festival ~

EDUCATION

Newark is in the multiple high school Northwest Independent School District.

Administration office ~ 2001 Texan Drive, Justin • 817-215-0000 • nisdtx.org

Paradise

GOVERNMENT

Amanda Black serves as mayor. City council members include Cody Anderson, Leland Whitsitt, Lance Tucker, Matthew Whitten and John Ward. The council meets 6 p.m. every fourth Monday at city hall, 218 Main St.

Alisha Whitten is city secretary.

~ 940-969-2114 • cityhall@cityofparadisetexas.org ~

SERVICES

The Wise County Sheriff’s Office responds to calls in the city.

~ 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies ~

The city is served by the Paradise Volunteer Fire Department. Darrel Rutledge is fire chief.

PARKS AND RECREATION

The Paradise Veterans Memorial Park is downtown.

ANNUAL EVENTS

~ Paradise Main Street Festival • Christmas in Paradise ~

EDUCATION

The Class 3A Paradise Independent School District has four campuses — an elementary, intermediate, junior high and high school.

School board members are Homer Mundy, Dr. Shannon Caddell, Phil Erickson, Landon Smith, Scott Cox, Russell Read and Renea Remmele. Superintendent is Will Brewer.

Administration office

~ 338 School House Rd. • 940-969-2501 ~

Paradise High School

~ 337 School House Rd. • 940-969-5010 ~

Paradise Junior High School

~ 334 School House Rd. • 940-969-5034 ~

Paradise Intermediate School ~ 340 School House Rd. • 940-969-5032 ~

Paradise Elementary School

~ 360 School House Rd. • 940-969-5046 • pisd.net ~

Rhome

GOVERNMENT

Kenneth Crenshaw is mayor. The city council includes Michelle Tye (mayor pro tem), Jimmy Johnson, Randall Loftis, Kristi King and Kasey Shumake.

The council meets 6 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday at the Rhome Community Center, 261 N. School Rd.

Amanda DeGan is the city administrator. Brooke Boller is city secretary. City Hall is at 501 S. Main St.

~ 817-636-2462 • cityofrhome.com ~

SERVICES

The city is served by the full-time Rhome Police Department, 400 B.C. Rhome Ave. Eric Debus is police chief. ~ 817-636-2400 ~

The Rhome Fire Rescue serves the city and surrounding areas. Fire Chief is Scott Estes.

~ 817-636-2001, 817-636-2462 or call 911 for emergencies ~

Rhome is home to the longest-serving library in Wise County. The Rhome Community Library , 265 W. B.C. Rhome, opened in 1960 and includes books, DVDs, audio books, public computers and programs for all ages year-round.

~ 817-636-2767 • rhomelibrary.org ~

PARKS AND RECREATION

The city is home to two parks.

The Rhome Veterans Memorial Park is at the corner of Virginia Lane and Second Street.

Rhome Family Park , 400 S. Virginia Lane and Stirling Lane, includes a basketball court, walking trail, playground, grills, picnic tables and a butterfly garden.

The Rhome Community Center , 261 N. School Road, regularly hosts both

community meetings and events and can also be rented for private functions. Call city hall for rental rates and availability.

Right next door at the same address is the Rhome Senior Center

Kam Kartway , at 4746 Texas 114, is an oval 1/8-mile kart racetrack that is consistently rated as a top 15 track in the nation by readers of RacingIn.com. It hosts events throughout the year.

~ 1-844-4-OUTLAW • kamkartway.com

ANNUAL EVENTS

~ Rhome Splash Days • Trunk or Treat • Christmas Tree Lighting • Santa Sightings ~

EDUCATION

Rhome is part of the Northwest Independent School District . Most students in Rhome attend Prairie View or Seven Hills elementary schools, Chisholm Trail Middle School and Northwest High School.

School board members are Steve Sprowls, Mark Schluter, Judy Copp, Lillian Rauch, Anne Simpson, Jennifer Murphy and DeAnne Hatfield. Mark Foust is superintendent.

Administration office

~ 2001 Texan Drive, Justin • 817-215-0000 ~

Prairie View Elementary

~ 609 FM 3433, Rhome • 817-215-0550 ~

Seven Hills Elementary

~ 654 FM 3433, Newark • 817-215-0700 ~

Chisholm Trail Middle School

~ 583 FM 3433, Rhome • 817-215-0600 ~

Northwest High School

~ 2301 Texan Drive, Justin • 817-215-0200 • nisdtx.org ~

Runaway Bay

GOVERNMENT

Herman White is the mayor of Runaway Bay. The city council includes Carolyn Moody (Mayor pro tem), Richard Griffin, Steve Holt, Todd Low and Chris Petty. The council meets 6 p.m. the third Tuesday at the Norma Coble Civic Center, 51 Runaway Bay Dr.

Misty Choate is city secretary.

~ 940-575-4745 • runawaybaytexas.com ~

SERVICES

Law enforcement is provided by the Runaway Bay Police Department. Steve Reynolds is police chief.

~ 940-575-4745 ~

The Runaway Bay Fire Department serves the city and surrounding areas. James Gates is fire chief.

PARKS AND RECREATION

The city owns a marina on the north side of U.S. 380 that features 144 lighted boat slips in a wind shielding cove. Public boat ramps are also available.

The Norma Coble Civic Center, 51 Runaway Bay Dr., is available to city residents for social and community activities.

~ 940-575-4745 ~

Three parks are located in the town.

Charles Todd Park, 698 Runaway Bay Drive, features a sports court and relaxation benches.

Cricket Ridge Park on Runaway Bay Drive next to the Norma Coble Civic Center features playground equipment, a basketball court and small gazebo with assorted picnic tables. This park also offers panoramic views of Lake Bridgeport.

City Park, 937 Port O Call Drive, features a walking trail, playground and picnic areas.

The Runaway Bay swimming pool, 938 Port O Call Drive at City Park, is open throughout the summer.

~ 940-626-9046 ~

The Runaway Bay Public Beach is located next to the causeway connecting Rattlesnake Island to the mainland. It features a designated swimming area and covered picnic tables with cookout grills.

LOCAL POINTS OF INTEREST

Bay Landing/Thousand Trails/NACO Preserves, 2305 W. U.S. 380 across the bridge from Runaway Bay, features an RV campground on the southeast shore of the lake. Cabins are also available for rent.

~ 800-388-7788 (for members) or 888-4816348 (for non-members) • thousandtrails. com/texas/bay-landing-rv-campground ~

The Sid Richardson Boy Scout Ranch, 2282 Longhorn Drive northwest of the city, is a summer camp tradition for members of the Boy Scouts of America. It includes 16 miles of shoreline and offers a variety of amenities.

~ longhorncouncil.org/sid-richardson-scoutranch ~

VISITING

The Greater Runaway Bay Alliance works to promote the town and make the city a wonderful place to live, work and play. It hosts the annual 4th Fest around Independence Day.

~ GRBATX@gmail.com ~

ANNUAL EVENTS

~ 4th Fest • Lighted Christmas Golf Cart Parade • Chili Cook Off ~

EDUCATION

Runaway Bay is part of the Class 4A Bridgeport Independent School District

Administrative offices ~ 940-683-5124 • bridgeportisd.net ~

Local Communities

SLIDELL

Slidell was officially established in 1884. Because most of the original settlers were southerners, they named the new community in honor of John Slidell, a Confederate diplomat.

Located about a mile south of Farm Road 51 on Farm Road 455 just before you enter Denton County, Slidell is home to the Class 2A Slidell Independent School District.

School board members include Tim Fletcher, Kim Dunlap, Brian Moore, Johnny Zuniga, Shaun Alexander, Ash Self and Alex Markel. Taylor Williams is superintendent.

Administration office ~ No. 1 Greyhound Lane • 940-535-5260, ext. 235 ~

Slidell High School/Junior High ~ 940-535-5260, ext. 235 ~

Slidell Elementary School ~ 940-535-5260, ext. 224 • slidellisd.net

Slidell is just a few miles from a couple of popular Wise County attractions.

The Eagles Canyon Raceway, at 7629 N. Farm Road 51 between Slidell and Decatur, is home to the area’s premiere road racing club. Its track is a 2½-mile road course that features 15 turns, more than 200 feet of elevation change and a 2,200-foot-long back straight.

~ 817 583-9476 • eaglescanyon.com ~

Located across the road from Eagles Canyon is Fossil Pointe Sporting Grounds. Thousands of sportsmen a year sight in rifles, hone pistol skills and shoot clays at Fossil Pointe. The course

is spread over expansive acreage that includes rolling hills, plenty of trees and wildflowers. Fossil Pointe also hosts a variety of events and allows several organizations like the Boy Scouts, 4-H, law enforcement and others to use the facility.

~ Phone: 940-393-6402 • fossilpointe.net

• Maryam@FossilPointe.net ~

GREENWOOD

One of Wise County’s hidden jewels is Greenwood. You might feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you pull off Farm Road 1204 onto a tree-lined county road that leads into “downtown Greenwood.”

Greenwood had its beginnings when two cowboys, named Hart and Greenwood, camped in the area and decided to begin a new settlement. The creek nearby was named Hart’s Creek and the town became Greenwood. The Greenwood post office was established in 1877. In 1892, Greenwood built the Greenwood Male and Female Normal College, which lasted until 1908.

At the heart of the community is the Greenwood Grocery, a popular lunchtime stop known for some of the best hamburgers and homemade pie in the county. The place is usually packed on Saturday nights when catfish and live music are on the menu. During the week, it’s not uncommon to see people sitting on the front porch playing dominoes or whittling.

The community hosts a couple of festivals each year.

The Greenwood Fall Festival held each October usually includes a parade, vendors and beans and cornbread. The festival is put on by the Greenwood Extension Education Club.

Local Communities

The Greenwood-Slidell Volunteer Fire Department usually holds a fish fry fundraiser in conjunction with the event.

The Greenwood Homecoming takes place in June with a potluck dinner and visiting at the downtown pavilion.

The fire department includes fire stations in both Greenwood and Slidell. The fire chief is Adam North. ~ Online: gsvfd.us ~

Students in the Greenwood area attend Slidell Independent School District.

Annual events

~ Greenwood Homecoming • Greenwood Fall Festival • Greenwood-Slidell Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry ~

PARK SPRINGS

Parks Springs is in northwest Wise County. Park Springs derived its name from a grove that surrounded a series of fresh-water springs in the area. The first community was known as Pringle and later changed to Park Springs. The post office was established in 1893. Postal service ended in 1915. The development of Park Springs was created by the arrival of the Rock Island Railroad. Park Springs had a thriving community in 1900, but by the end of World War I, its population was in decline.

In the early 1900s, the town included three grocery stores, a bank, a feed store, an icehouse, a blacksmith shop and a school.

The nearest towns are Sunset in Montague County, Chico and Alvord.

Students in the Park Springs area attend Alvord or Chico Independent School District

CRAFTON

In the northwest corner of Wise County is Crafton. The formation and naming of Crafton is very straightforward. George R. Craft was an early settler who purchased 160 acres. In 1883, the town was laid out on Craft’s land, and the community adopted the name Crafton. The first post office was established in 1878 and discontinued in 1917. Amon G. Carter Sr. was born Giles Amon Carter in Crafton in 1879.

The community once boasted six churches, a school complete with a library and auditorium, various drug and dry goods stores, cornmeal and flour mills, a cotton gin and a gas station.

Today the area is served by the Crafton Volunteer Fire Department. Craig Cowley serves as fire chief.

Another nearby fire department also provides mutual aid to the area. Andy Sabo serves as fire chief of the Sand Flat Volunteer Fire Department

The nearest town is Chico, and students in the area attend Chico Independent School District

COTTONDALE

Cottondale is a few miles south of Paradise on Farm Road 2123, about three miles west of Farm Road 51.

Cottondale, as a community, existed as early as 1860, but it didn’t receive its name until 1875. When the community petitioned for a post office, they were so impressed with one settler’s cotton crop, they asked to name the town Cotton Valley. They were informed by the postal service that Cotton Valley was taken but

suggested Cottondale, which suited them. The post office was discontinued in 1912. The community prospered with the help of railroads and the Bridgeport coal mines. However, rail service was eventually lost in Cottondale when the Rock Island track was laid from Fort Worth to Boyd, before turning to Bridgeport.

The Cottondale Volunteer Fire Department offers fire protection for the community. Fire chief is Jason Walker. The nearby Salt Creek Volunteer Fire Department often provides mutual aid. Cottondale VFD and Salt Creek VFD are part of Wise County ESD No. 3

BOONSVILLE/BALSORA

Located on Farm Road 920 southwest of Bridgeport, Boonsville started as a community of families on Boon’s Creek, which was named for Stephen Boon, a pioneer settler. It was moved to its present site in 1882. It continued to grow, and by 1914, it had a population of 200, along with two general stores, a school, bank and steam gristmill. The Boonsville post office closed in 1965.

Nearby on FM 920 southwest of Bridgeport, Balsora was originally called Wild Horse Prairie because of the herds of horses once found there. When the post office was established, it was given the name Balzora, but an old settler who couldn’t make a “Z” asked it to be changed to an “S.” The post office was established in April 1894 and discontinued in February 1896. It was reopened in April 1900 and discontinued again in October 1924.

The area is served by the Boonsville/ Balsora Volunteer Fire Department, which is also Wise County ESD No. 2. Jimmy Goodwin is fire chief.

GUIDED PATHWAYS

Gather Relax Celebrate

Enjoy These Annual Wise County Events

If you’re looking to participate in something fun around Wise County, we’ve got a few suggestions.

Gather

There’s no better place to gather than the original Wise County public event: the Old Settlers Reunion.

The oldest recurring public event in the county dates back more than 140 years and is held at the Reunion Grounds at Joe Wheeler Park in Decatur the last week of July.

Reunion has all the staples of a great gathering: food, carnival rides, games, live music and plenty of space to catch up with friends and family.

Visit Wise County Old Settlers Reunion on Facebook for more information about this year’s event.

Relax

If you’re looking for an event with a bit slower pace, where you can just enjoy nature with your kids, we suggest participating in one of the two kids fishing events held each June.

The annual Ronnie Brooks Memorial Kids Fishing event is held the first Saturday in June at Wise County Park on Lake Bridgeport. The Kids Fishing Derby is held the second Saturday in June at Black Creek Lake on the LBJ National Grasslands north of Decatur.

Both events include food, fun and, of course, fishing. They are also both free, so just relax and enjoy.

Celebrate

For the ones who are always looking for a good reason to celebrate, Bridgeport offers plenty of holiday-themed events throughout the year.

Wear your green for St. Patrick’s Day on Halsell Street or celebrate the town’s history at Butterfield Stage Days in May. Suit up and Say Boo! offers trick-or-treating in Downtown Bridgeport on Halloween, and get into the Christmas spirit with a number of holiday-themed events such as Santa and the Stagecoach, Lights on Halsell Christmas Parade and Breakfast with Santa.

You can even celebrate Christmas in July, if you are so inclined, with the Christmas in July Jeep parade and show.

Of course, it’s not just Bridgeport that offers fun events throughout the year. Wise County cities and communities also host a number of annual festivals, providing the perfect place to gather, relax and celebrate. They include the Alvord Watermelon Festival, Boyd America Bash, Chico Fest, Newark Cruisin’ Days, Paradise Main Street Festival, Runaway Bay’s Fourth Fest and Greenwood Fall Festival.

Check out more community events in the city information found elsewhere in this edition of Welcome to Wise.

Livin’ the Dream

When Jesse and Tiffany Woskowicz founded AmeriDream Mortgage Group, LLC in 2006, the landscape of Wise County looked different, growing from a small, rural county into an area surging with an influx of growth in a span of two decades.

Originally opening their doors in Denton, Jesse and Tiffany Woskowicz have now expanded their business to four locations, including two in Wise County — 207 West Main Street in Decatur and 1005 Stevens Street in Bridgeport.

“My wife, Tiffany, is originally from Chico, and we moved back in 2017,” Woskowicz said. “With a brick-andmortar presence, we’re able to offer our clients a more personalized experience, and to engage with them as if they are friends and family. Despite a lot of the mortgage process consisting of business being conducted via email and uploads, we have a significant number of customers that prefer to come into the office. We enjoy the client engagement and helping them in the office.”

Seeing a rapid increase in growth coming to Wise from the Metroplex, Jesse Woskowicz, who currently serves as the company’s president, opened the Bridgeport branch in 2022.

“The growth we’ve experienced has really been organic,” he said. “It wasn’t something that we were necessarily looking to do and so we’ve been very blessed. AmeriDream has grown to loan levels and a client base that I could have never have dreamed of. We focus on writing one loan at a time, making sure each home loan is the best fit for the individual customer. As a company, we are committed to making sure we provide a client experience that is unmatched from a customer service aspect.”

Whether customers are looking to purchase a home or refinance, AmeriDream Mortgage Group adds a personal touch in helping its clientele with its “excellence in service” motto.

“As the mortgage business has evolved, it’s become more and more technology driven,” Woskowicz said. “In Wise County, we have a retail focused presence. We have a client-focused approach when tailoring loans. Each loan scenario is different. We try to do a good job of helping folks understand what they’re getting into, and to help make sense of something

that doesn’t make sense to a lot of buyers /homeowners. The mortgage process in general is overwhelming and it is a lot to navigate. We help simplify the process and get homeowners through the process one step at a time.”

AmeriDream Mortgage Group works for its clients by offering a range of loan options, including Jumbo loans, conventional loans, government, and nonconforming loans (outside the box loans).

With knowledgeable, experienced experts on staff, AmeriDream Mortgage Group’s clients can feel confident in searching for the home of their dreams.

“Obtaining a mortgage is most likely the largest financial transaction that a lot of us will ever take part in, and there’s a lot of work that has to get done in a short amount of time,” Woskowicz said. “Our biggest asset when helping homeowners is our people. We have incredible employees here at AmeriDream who go above and beyond to put the clients’ needs before their own. We are blessed to have an experienced staff, many of which have been with us for over 10 years. I believe their passion and care helps us separate our company from others — every one of them cares as much as I do about providing our clients with an enjoyable home loan experience. We’re

forever grateful and thankful to every client and every business partner that allows us the opportunity to assist with their home loan experience.”

Woskowicz is optimistic about the current state of Wise County’s housing market.

“Wise County is an amazing county. Our leadership continues to make this one of the best counties in Texas to live in. It has a lot of good things to offer that buyers look for,” he said. “We’ve got people moving here from the Metroplex who want to get out of the city and the traffic congestion that comes with bigger city life and move to our more rural and country lifestyle. Decatur is growing and it’s in a great location situated right of U.S. 287, and Bridgeport is doing wonderful things for its residents and also has the desirable lake community lifestyle. It’s a great time to buy — even though interest rates are higher than they were, housing prices have leveled off. The demand for Wise County is high, and I don’t see it slowing down.”

AmeriDream Mortgage Group also plays a visible role in community engagement. The company has sponsored events such as Taste of Bridgeport and the Collins Skills Basketball Camp in Paradise, and will be taking part in a backpack drive for local students in July.

“We are proud to be involved and help sponsor events that are unique to our communities. We will continue to support Wise County in whatever way we can going forward,” Woskowicz said. “We’re passionate about being involved with the community and providing opportunities for our kids.”

As a full service, experienced mortgage company, AmeriDream Mortgage Group serves all of Texas, Oklahoma and Colorado, including Frisco, Denton, The Colony, Decatur, Haslet, Bridgeport, Runaway Bay, Bowie, Dallas, Fort Worth and all surrounding areas.

Wise

In addition to its Wise County locations, AmeriDream Mortgage Group also has branches located in The Colony (3700 Standridge Drive, Suite 101) and Midlothian (136 North 8th Street, Suite 200).

For more information, visit ameridreammtg.com or call 940-627-2034 or 940-644-0024.

Clear advice & effective solutionslegal

✧ Probate Law & Guardianships

✧ Criminal Law

✧ Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning

✧ Personal Injury / Wrongful Death

✧ Business & Corporate Law & Litigation ✧ Real Estate ✧ General Civil Litigation ✧ Contracts

Our attorneys are Wise County natives, and continue a legacy of excellence that began in 1905.

At Carrillo | Sipes | Tibbels, our attorneys have years of experience in their chosen fields of legal expertise, so no matter what legal help you need, we are ready to assist.

J. Michael Carrillo

Licensed to practice in all areas of law by State Bar of Texas since 1999

Mary Lois Sipes Licensed to practice in all areas of law by State Bar of Texas since 2010

Charles R. Tibbels

Licensed to practice in all areas of law by State Bar of Texas since 2012

Living in Wise

Wise County Info

Sheriff’s Office

The Wise County Sheriff’s Office provides law enforcement and promotes safety for the entire county. Divisions include administration, detention, patrol, special services (animal control, asset control, civil process, courthouse security, Crime Stoppers, criminal warrants, property and evidence, sex offender registration, transport and vehicle impound), specialized enforcement, communications, criminal investigations, crime scene investigation, school resource officers and boat patrol. Sheriff is Lane Akin. Chief Deputy is Craig Johnson.

~ 940-627-5971 • sheriff.co.wise. tx.us ~

Emergency Medical Services

Wise County EMS provides emergency pre-hospital care as well as critical care and non-emergency transfers for the entire county. It staffs four full-time MICU level ambulances, a rescue unit operated by a shift supervisor and a part-time MICU unit that’s in service Monday through Friday. EMS administrator is Randall Preuninger.

~ 940-627-2002, or call 911 for emergencies • ems.co.wise.tx.us ~

Public Dumps

The county operates five public dumps that accept household trash from Wise County residents. They are not for commercial use.

The Boyd Dumpsite, 546 South Allen St., is open 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

The Chico Dumpsite, 2897 Farm Road 1655 South, is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

The Cottondale Dumpsite, 6465 Farm Road 2123, is open 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

The Slidell Dumpsite, 242 County Road 2820, is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. The Decatur Dumpsite, 127 Private Road 4195, is open 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Recycling is available for clean cardboard, newspaper, paper, plastic, tin cans, aluminum cans, oil and oil filters and batteries.

~ co.wise.tx.us ~

Veterans Service Office

The VSO helps veterans acquire benefits through the Veterans Administration. Benefits include education, money, home loans and monthly compensation. Employees at the VSO serve as mediators who file claims and represent Wise County veterans. The office, 205 N. State St. in Decatur, is open 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to noon Friday. Blake Walls is Veterans Service Officer. ~ 940-627-2470 • wisevets@co.wise. tx.us ~

Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation District

The Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation District is a government organization that works to protect groundwater resources in the counties of Montague, Wise, Parker and Hood through the registration of water wells, observing aquifer levels and conservation education. The district office is in Springtown, 1859 W. Texas 199. Mailing address is P.O. Box 1749, Springtown, TX 76082. ~ 817-523-5200, or toll free 877-38UTGCD • uppertrinitygcd.com ~

Wise County Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 (WCID)

The Wise County Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 (WCID) supports flood control and the conservation of natural resources. It’s a taxing entity, and its funds are used for projects such as floodwater retarding dams in the county, securing easements needed to build the dams, watershed projects and cost sharing with landowners in the district. The office is at 1604 W. U.S. Business 380 in Decatur.

~ 940-627-2942 ~

USDA Service Center

Wise County farmers and ranchers are served by the U.S. Department of Agriculture service center on Business U.S. 380 West in Decatur. The center is home to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Rural Development. The staff, headed by District Conservationist Darnell Willis, provides assistance to protect, develop and wisely use natural resources. The mission of the NRCS is “Helping People Help the Land.” ~ 940-627-2268, Ext. 3 ~

The Wise County Farm Service Agency (FSA) Office, headed by Tracy Meadows, administers federal USDA farm programs locally.

~ 940-627-2268, Ext. 2 ~ Rural Development, headed by Area Director Allen Lambright, has a mission of helping the people of rural America develop sustainable communities and improve quality of life.

~ 940-627-2268, Ext. 4 ~

Wise County Info

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service strives to improve lives through education. The Wise County office is in Decatur, 206 S. State St., Suite A.

The Agriculture and Natural Resource programs are designed to reach agriculture producers as well as homeowners.

The Family and Consumer Sciences programs offer practical information for families on raising children, eating well, managing money and staying healthy. Extension agents include: Marty Morgan, agriculture/natural resources; Amy Wagner, family and consumer sciences; Karly West, 4-H and youth development and Jacqueline Gonzalez, Better Living for Texans. Lillian Hinson is the 4-H program assistant. ~ 940-627-3341 • wise.agrilife.org ~

4-H

4-H has numerous projects, opportunities and learning experiences for youth. The organization encourages family members to work together on projects while instilling integrity, work ethic and a devotion to community service in its members, ages 8 to 19. 4-H is open to all boys and girls regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, handicap or national origin. Children not yet old enough for 4-H can join Clover Kids. Designed as an introduction to 4-H, this informal education program is for children ages 5 through 8.

If you are interested in joining Wise County 4-H, call Karly West, County Extension agent – 4-H and youth development, at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office in Wise County, 940-627-3341. You can also find information on the Facebook Page: facebook.com/WiseCounty4H.

Alvord 4-H Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. first Monday • Contact: Amanda Moak • 940-3896274 ~

Boyd 4-H Club

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. third Tuesday at Trinity Baptist Church in Boyd • Contact: John Moore • 817-999-9255

~

Bridgeport 4-H Club

~ Meets: 3 p.m. second Sunday at Bridgeport Intermediate School • Contact: Meghan German • 979-7776494 ~

Chico 4-H Club

~ Meets: 4 p.m. second Sunday at Chico Elementary School cafeteria • Contact: Kelly Martin • 940-210-2506

~

Decatur 4-H Club

~Meets: 6 p.m. fourth Monday at NRS breakroom • Contact: Chrissy Karrer • 940-910-8069 ~

Paradise 4-H Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. second Tuesday at Paradise Elementary School cafeteria • Contact: J.J. and Britney French • 940-399-6354 ~

Slidell/Greenwood 4-H Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. second Tuesday at Slidell High School cafeteria • Contact: Rachel Willett • 940-2107893 ~

Victory 4-H Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. third Monday at Victory Christian Academy • Contact: 940-626-4730 ~

Clothing and Textiles Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. first Tuesday at Extension office • Contact: Julia Haschke • 817-690-4823 ~

Horse Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. third Thursday at NRS Saddle Shop • Contact: Haley Shurden • 940-393-1685 ~

Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun Project

~ Meets: Rifle and pistol 8:30 a.m. or 2 p.m. second and last Sunday at Decatur PD shooting range, shotgun meets at 1 p.m. at Parker County sportsman club. • Contact: Kristi Polone • 940-320-9230 • or Jason Norris • 817-382-7922~

Dog Project

~Contact: Janie Vawter • 940-8596520 ~

Photography Project

~ TBD • Contact: Jeannette Ward • 940-627-3341 ~

Vet Science

~ Meets: 5:30 p.m. second Monday at Weatherford College • Contact: Sandy Leichliter • 940-465-6695 ~

Goat Project

~ Meets: 3 p.m. third Sunday at Chico 4-H/FFA barn, 205 North Mount St., Chico • Contact: Kelly Martin • 940210-2506 ~

Poultry Project

~ Meets: meetings vary at Extension office • Contact: Julia Haschke • 817690-4823 ~

Clover Kids

~ TBD • Contact: Kristen Baird • 940393-5632 ~

Rabbit Project

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at Trinity Baptist Church in Boyd • Contact: John Moore • 817-999-9255 ~

Livestock Judging

~ Contact: Todd Vineyard • 254-9772045, email lmwashburn@ag.tamu. edu to get on mailing list ~

Wise County Info

County Council

~ Contact: Karly West • Meets: 6 p.m. first Monday at Extension office • 940-627-3341 ~

LBJ National Grasslands

For those looking for a break from the day-to-day routine, try spending time enjoying the natural beauty of the LBJ National Grasslands.

The roughly 20,302 acres that make up the Grasslands in northern Wise County offers a recreation area at Black Creek Lake, which includes camping, picnic tables, restrooms and a boat ramp. TADRA Point offers one of the best trail riding opportunities in the area and also features a campground. The 75-mile LBJ Multi-Use Trail can be used for horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking and has campsites along the way. Valley View Campground has 15 developed campsites, a restroom, water for horses and a pavilion with a grill. Some areas may require a fee for use.

Start your escape to nature by visiting the National Forest Service office at 1400 U.S. 81/287 in Decatur. District ranger is Jeff Stoney. ~ 940-627-5475 • fs.usda.gov/texas ~

Wise County Park

Wise County Park at Lake Bridgeport offers fishing, picnic tables, swimming and camping.

The county has recently added lawn games, two rock fire pits and new lighting. Other amenities include a playground, boat ramps with piers, public restrooms, showers and a walking/nature trail.

Wise County Park offers both reservations and spots that are first-come-first-served basis. The park offers eight spots that are nonreservable, tent camping spots and

RV spots with full hookups or water and electric hookups.

Rough camping spots are $10 per night per tent. RV spots with full hookups are $30 per night. RV spots with electric and water hookups are $25 per night. Pavilions are also available for rent, $50 per day for the large pavilion and $30 per day for one of two small pavilions. RVs and tents are extra.

The park is located at the north end of the lake, just west of Farm Road 2952.

~ 940-644-1910 • co.wise.tx.us under Public Works heading ~

Weatherford College

Wise County

Weatherford College Wise County opened a permanent campus between Decatur and Bridgeport in the fall of 2012.

General education classes include the Texas common core, which is 42 semester credit hours that are guaranteed to transfer to four-year public universities in the state of Texas. WCWC also offers courses of study in registered nursing and cosmetology. WCWC partners with all Wise County high schools to provide dual-credit courses in order for high school students to obtain college credit while still in high school. Noncredit, technical-oriented programs and classes in Workforce Education are also available, and the college has become a popular site for community meetings and special training sessions.

The college is at 502 Big Sandy Court in Bridgeport.

~ 940-627-2690 • wc.edu ~

Wise County Messenger

We here at the Wise County Messenger think everyone living in

Wise ought to know what’s going on in the place we all call home. And the best way to do that is to read the Wise County Messenger newspaper. We publish our national-award winning paper every Thursday as well as a single-sheet Update daily Monday through Friday. Both are also available in digital formats. News, photos, advertising and more can also be found on our website, WCMessenger.com. Connect with us on social media through our pages on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

In addition to our regular publications, the Messenger produces a number of special sections throughout the year.

The Messenger also offers publishing services to outside businesses and entities.

Our office is at 115 S. Trinity St. in historic downtown Decatur. ~ 940-627-5987 • wcmessenger. com ~

Annual events

~ Wise County Youth Fair • Wise County Health Fair • Grasslands Trail Run • Wise County Home and Lawn Show • Relay for Life • Dazzle Me Pink • United Way Golf Tournament

• Youth Art Show • Memorial Day Program • Wise County Olympathon • Kids Fishing Derby • Sonflower Camp

• Wise County Old Settlers Reunion

• Biker Bash • Taste of Wise County

• Patriot Day Program • Reading of Constitution • United Way Golf Tournament • Chisholm Trail Antique Tractor Club Auction • Wise County Public Safety Fall Festival • Veterans Day Program • Blue Ribbon Bash • A Touch of Rust Vintage Craft Show • Wise County Toy Run • Wise County Chamber Awards ~

302 acres, 25 miles of trail. Open to Jeeps, ATV’s, UTV’s, 4-Wheelers, and anything taken off-road. Over 21,000 people visited the park in 2023.

over 9

of trail ranging from beginner to expert levels.

Resource Guide for Local Community Groups

4-H and Clover Kids

~ Contact: Karly West • 940-6273341 ~

Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce

~ Meets: Membership lunch is 11:30 a.m. every third Thursday at Weatherford College Wise County.

• Contact: Executive Director Nathan Byers • 940-683-2076 • Location: 812-A Halsell St.; P.O. Box 1104, Bridgeport, TX 76426 • bridgeportchamber.org ~

Bridgeport Lions Club

~ Meets: Noon first and third Wednesdays at the Bridgeport Lions Club Hall, 1107 8th Street • Contact: Tonja Underwood • 940-393-0484 • bridgeportlionsclub.com ~

Bridgeport Women’s Club

~ Meets: Quarterly • Address: P.O. Box 485, Bridgeport, TX 76426 • Bridgeport Womens Club on Facebook ~

Chico Chamber of Commerce

~ Meets: Noon second Tuesday, except July and August, at the Chico Senior Center • Contact: Rick Bowling • 940-626-9143 • Address: P.O. Box 533, Chico, TX 76431 • Chico Texas Chamber of Commerce on Facebook ~

Chico Chapter No. 433 Order of the Eastern Star

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. first Tuesday at the Chico Masonic Lodge, 112 W. Jacksboro St., on the Chico Square • Contact: Bobbie Morris • 940-6442339 ~

Chico Masonic Lodge No. 508

~ Meets: 7:30 p.m. first Thursday at the Chico Masonic Lodge, 112 W. Jacksboro St., on the Chico Square • Contact: Tom Ferguson • 940-3899879 ~

Daughters of the American Revolution, John B. Denton Chapter

~ Meets: social at 9:30 a.m. followed by meeting at 10 a.m. third Saturday August through May in the parlor room of the First Baptist Church in Decatur • Contact: Katherine Silvey • 940-389-1189 ~

Decatur Chamber of Commerce

~ Meets: 11:30 a.m. fourth Tuesday (except June, July and December) at Decatur Conference Center • Contact: Executive Director Misty Berry • 940-627-3107 • decaturtx. com ~

Decatur Junior Woman’s Club

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Monday September through May • Contact: Jessica Gage • Jessica.gage@outlook. com • eventsdjwc.com ~

Decatur

Lions Club

~ Meets: Noon Wednesday (except the fifth Wednesday of the month) at the Lions Club Building, 207 N. State St., Decatur • For building use, call Anita Ross at 940-255-7636 ~

Decatur

Rotary Club

~ Meets: Noon Thursday at Decatur Conference Center, 2010 W. U.S. 380 • decaturrotary5790@gmail.com • decaturrotary.com ~

Decatur Woman’s Club

~ Meets 6:30 p.m. second Tuesday September through May at Patti’s Cantina • Contact: Dee Ann Archer • dejaa201@gmail.com • 940-7350361 ~

Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 70

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at 2801B FM 51 South, Decatur • Contact: Kayla W. Jones • 940-3993291 • kaylajones.dav@gmail.com • davtexas.org ~

First Baptist Church HOPE (Helping Others Practice English)

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday September through May at First Baptist Church Decatur, 1200 Preskitt Rd. • 940-627-3235 ~

Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority

~ Meets: Second Saturday September through May (except for March) • Contact: Rachel Gasperson • 940-210-2452 ~

Greater Runaway Bay Alliance

~ Meets: As needed • GRBATX@ gmail.com • grba.citymax.com ~

Sons of Confederate Veterans - Albert Sidney Johnston Camp No. 983

~ Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at the Wesley Center of the First United Methodist Church of Decatur, 201 E. Main St. ~

Finding Your Fit

Veterans Support Group

~ Meets: Call for an appointment • Contact: Karen Self • 940-872-5947 • karenandleroy.self@yahoo.com ~

Wise County Art Association

~ Wise County Art Association on Facebook • diaczenko@yahoo.com ~

Wise County Chamber of Commerce

~ Meets: 11:45 a.m. first Monday (exceptions apply for legal holidays) at Weatherford College Wise County; Monthly coffees, networks and mixers throughout the year. See website for scheduled dates. • Contact: Mende Hanley • info@wisecountychamber.com • wisecountychamber.com ~

Wise County Community Coalition

~ Meets: Noon second Monday at various locations • St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Decatur

• Contact: Mike Bell • 940-799-1077 • mbell4344@gmail.com ~

Wise County Democratic Party

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Tuesday at Fairfield Inn and Suites in Decatur

• Contact: Chair Jim Duncan • 817-917-0527 • wisedemocrats@ gmail.com • wisedemocrats.com ~

Wise County Fossil, Rock and Mineral Society

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. third Tuesday even numbered months at Pleasant View Baptist Church in Decatur • Contact: Tom Robinson • wcfrms@gmail.com • wisecofossilrockandmineralsoc. weebly.com or Wise County Fossil, Rock, and Mineral Society on Facebook ~

Wise County Quilt Guild

~ Meets: 10 a.m. third Saturday at Bridgeport Church of Christ • Contact: Jo Ellen • JsweetliteJ@ yahoo.com ~

Wise County Republican Party

~ Contact: Chair Rick Lifto • wisetxgop.com ~

Wise County Retired School Personnel

~ Meets: 11:30 a.m. (lunch), noon (program) fourth Tuesday Decatur Conference Center • Does not meet from June-August • Bunny Perry • 940-389-1889 ~

Wise County United Way

~ Contact: uwwise.ed@embarqmail. com • wisecountyunitedway.org ~

Wise County Veterans Group

~ Meets: 8 a.m. Saturday for breakfast (see website for locations) • wisecountyvets.org ~

Healthy Wise County

~ 940-627-5921 • healthywisecounty. org ~

Helping Our Neighbors

Abby’s Joy

A Hometown nonprofit created to financially support, pediatric brain, cancer, families, Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). ~ Abyzjoy.com ~

Acts 4 Others

Seeks to unite the community and all available resources to prevent homelessness and fight root causes of poverty stricken families in Wise County.

~ Contact: Jessica Sicking • 940-222-6647 • acts4others.org ~

Al-Anon

A mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.

~ Meets: Monday and Wednesday 6:30-7:30 p.m. at 602 N. Business U.S. 81/287, Decatur, TX 76234 • Contact: Frances Stack • 940-5945087 or Pam T • 952-221-0221 ~

Alcoholics Anonymous

International fellowship of men and women who have had a drinking problem.

~ Meets: Daily at noon, 6:30 and 8 p.m. at 602 N. Business

U.S. 81/287, Decatur, TX 76234 • Contact: Larry Gober • 940-6273800, 940-393-8669 ~

American Cancer Society

Education, support groups

~ 1200 Summit Ave., Suite 320, Fort Worth, TX 76102 • cancer.org • 817-737-9990 or 24-hour 800227-2345 ~

American Red Cross

Volunteers make up a disaster action team that responds to local disasters such as house fires and tornadoes.

~ Contact: Melvin Castleberry • 940-210-4908 or regional office, 214-678-4800 ~

Area Agency on Aging Nursing Home Ombudsman Program

Ombudsmen in Wise County help achieve the best life for residents in nursing and assisted living centers.

~ Contact: Tina Rider, Managing Local Ombudsman — Bridgeport Medical Lodge/Nursing Home; Decatur Medical Lodge/Nursing Home; Heritage Place of Decatur/ Nursing Home; The Hills Nursing & Rehabilitation/Nursing Home; Governor’s Ridge/Assisted Living; The Residences/Assisted Living • 817-695-9196 ~

CASA of Wise and Jack Counties

Provides trained child advocates to serve as independent voices in court for abused and neglected children, as well as case management services for children in CPS care. Volunteer opportunities are available.

~ Contact: Executive Director Elizabeth Randle • 300 E. Pecan, Decatur, TX 76234 • casawise.org • 940-627-7535 ~

Child Study Center

Provides diagnosis and treatment services to children who have or are at risk for developmental disabilities and related behavioral and emotional problems.

~ 1300 West Lancaster, Fort Worth, TX 76102 • cscfw.org • 682303-9261 ~

Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas

Responds to the crime of child abuse with victim advocacy and mental health services for child abuse victims and their families, and coordinates the investigation and prosecution of child abuse cases with local partners. Also offers community and in-school education on the topic of child abuse recognition, reporting, and prevention.

~ 2302 Woodrow Wilson Ray Circle, Bridgeport, TX • cacnorthtexas.org • 972-317-2818 ~

Resource guide for local health or social service assistance

Communities in Schools of North Texas

Provides holistic, wraparound, evidence-based programs that support and empower North Texas students to overcome barriers to high school graduation and unlock their full potential.

~ 1760 S Stemmons Fwy, Suite 300, Lewisville, TX 75067 • cisnt. org/get-involved • info@cisnt.org • 972-538-9930 ~

Cornerstone Community Action Agency Headstart

Provides educational and case management services to children and their families through Head Start and Early Head Start.

Bridgeport Head Start

~ Contact: Skylar Furgeson • 682-312-6515 ~ Decatur (Mulberry) Head Start

~ Contact: Jackie Ackerman ~ Center Supervisor (for Mulberry and Bridgeport)

~ Contact: Jackie Ackerman • 682-312-6512 ~

Decatur Early Head Start

~ Contact: Brittany Hayes • 940-641-3533 ~

Boyd

Head Start

~Contact: Angelica Ruiz • 940400-0150 ~

Decatur MS Support Group

Provides an opportunity for people living with Multiple Sclerosis to connect to others with similar life experiences.

~ Meets: 6 p.m. second Tuesday at Braum’s in Decatur • Contact: Julie Kirk • 318-680-1210 • aug3101@hotmail.com ~

Diabetes Education Classes

Total Diabetes Care at Wise Health System offers regular diabetes education classes intended to help those with diabetes better understand and manage the disease.

~ Contact: Dick Gilley and Brenda Haile • 940-626–1890 ~

ECS

Provides Early Childhood Intervention (E.C.S.) services to children birth to 3 years of age who are experiencing developmental delays or disabilities.

~ 817-446-8000 • mhmrtc.org ~

Heart of Town

Transforming lives with health, body, mind and spirit.

~ P.O. Box 390, Bridgeport, TX • 940-799-2688 • heartoftownclinic. com • info@heartoftownclinic.com ~

Helen Farabee Center MHMR

Treats specific mental health issues. Services are also available for intellectual and physical disabilities. Adults and children are treated.

~ 1515 U.S. 81/287 Business, Decatur, TX 76234 • helenfarabee. org • 940-627-1251 ~

Joyful Moments

Serves and supports families that have experienced child loss.

~ 653 Ponderosa Dr., Hurst, TX 76053 • joymom.org • 682-9908796 ~

Logos Counseling

Offers counseling with fees on a sliding scale.

~ 2201 South FM 51, Decatur, TX 76234 • logoscounseling.com • 817-812-2880 ~

Made 2 Thrive

Provides opportunities for individuals and families with special needs.

~ P.O. Box 601, Bridgeport, TX 76426 • 940-393-5569 • made2thrive.org ~

Helping Our Neighbors

Mary’s Gift Program

Provides free diagnostic and screening mammograms to lowincome, uninsured women in Wise County.

~ 901 Medical Center Drive, Decatur, TX 76234 • 940-432-5923

~

Meals on Wheels (WCCA)

Provided by Wise County Committee on Aging, Inc., program provides home delivered meals and transportation services to homebound seniors 60+. Congregate meals served at the OWLS Activity Center, Decatur.

~ 300 N. Trinity, Suite A, Decatur, TX • 940-627-5329 • wisemeals.org ~

Metroport Meals on Wheels

Delivers meals to residents of Aurora, Boyd, Justin, Newark and Rhome.

~ metroportmow.org • 817-4911141 ~

Moncrief Cancer Institute

Provides fully funded mobile mammography for the uninsured in Wise County and the surrounding area.

~ moncrief.com • 800-405-7739 ~

One Hope Village

Engaging community resources to equip and bring hope to underserved families in Wise County.

~ onehopevillage.com • 817-8515410 • info@onehopevillage.com ~

OWLS Activity Center (WCCA)

Wise County Committee on Aging, Inc. provides daily senior activities including congregate meals. 11 am12:30 pm M-F.

~ 1200 N. Miller St., Decatur, TX 76234 • 940-539-0188 ~

Peace Relief Charity

Dedicated to providing the needs for anyone facing poverty. They are also strong advocates for child hunger and food wastage. Donate at their GoFundMe page.

Raquel’s Wings for Life

Provides free air transportation for cancer patients to the medical center they need.

~ 351 Airport Rd., Box 2, Decatur, TX 76234 • 940-399-9504 • flabrad@icloud.com ~

Salvation Army

Rental assistance, utilities, emergency support, emergency relief for travelers. Sponsors Christmas tree for Angels and WCCA Meals on Wheels clients.

~ Wise County Unit: WARM, 300 N. Trinity, Decatur, TX 76234 • 940-626-4676 (After hours, call Decatur or Bridgeport police department or Wise County Sheriff’s Office.) ~

Social Security Office

Although Wise County doesn’t have a Social Security Office, most business can be handled online or by phone. If an office visit is necessary, the closest office is in Denton.

~ 2201 Colorado Blvd., Denton, TX 76205 • ssa.gov • 888-717-1530 ~

South Wise Services

Food pantry, clothing and other assistance as funds are available.

~ Trinity Baptist Church, 449 W. Rock Island Ave., Boyd, Tx 76023 • 940-433-2211 ~

Southeast Wise County Community Services

Provides food pantry and limited emergency assistance to Rhome and Newark area residents in need.

~ First Baptist Church, Newark • 1572 FM 3433, Newark, Tx 76071 • P.O. Box 148 • Office opens 8-Noon Tues, Wed., Thurs. • 817-489-2932 ~

Resource guide for local health or social service assistance

Southwestern Diabetic Foundation

Rehabilitation and education training for boys and girls with diabetes through residential summer camps at Camp Sweeney.

~ P.O. Box 918, Gainesville, TX 76241 • campsweeney.org • 940665-2011 ~

Stroke Overcomers Support Group

~ Meets: 5:30 p.m. fourth Thursday, 301 E. Main St. Decatur • Contact: Casey Rauschuber • 940626-2457 ~

Susan G. Komen North Texas

Funds breast health education, screening, treatment and patient services for medically underserved men and women in the North Texas service area, including Wise County.

~ 13770 Noel Road, Ste. 801889 Dallas, TX 75380 • komennorthtexas.org • 1-877-GO KOMEN • info@komen.org ~

TAPS

Public transit service for medical, shopping, social, education, employment and more. Meals on Wheels clients ride free.

~ 6104 Texoma Pkwy., Sherman, TX 75090 • tapsbus.com • 844603-6048 ~

Tarrant Area Food Bank

Working with local agencies, the food bank delivers food for distribution to area residents in need once a month to three mobile pantry locations in Wise County.

Decatur Cares sponsored by First United Methodist Church in Decatur

~ 104 S. Miller St., Decatur • 8-9 a.m. first Saturday • 940-627-3362 ~

First Methodist Church in Bridgeport

~ 608 17th St., Bridgeport • 8:3010 a.m. second Thursday • 940257-3578 ~

Texas Neighborhood Services Community Services

Assistance to low income households with utility payments, heating/cooling system repairs, energy education and budget counseling.

~ 300 N. Trinity, Suite B, Decatur, TX 76234 •940-626-4277 (Friday only) • 522 Palo Pinto, Weatherford, TX 76086 • 817-5985700 • txns.org ~

Texas Ramp Project

Builds wheelchair ramps for disabled or elderly people who cannot afford to buy one. ~ texasramps.org ~

Trinity Habitat for Humanity

Builds quality, affordable houses for qualified low-income families.

~ 9333 N. Normandale St., Fort Worth, TX 76116 • trinityhabitat.org • 817-926-9219 ~

U-Turn World Ministries in Chico

~ 306 N. Texas 101, Chico • 2-5 p.m. fourth Thursday • Contact: Clover Alexander • 940-644-5555 ~

Valor Ranch

Home of the SHEROES - Serving, Honoring, Empowering, Restoring, Our Esteemed Service women. ~ Decatur, TX 76234 • 682-2831844 • info@valorranchtx.org ~

VA/Decatur CommunityBased Outpatient Clinic

Serves veterans living in Wise, Jack, Clay, Archer, Baylor, Young, Montague and Throckmorton counties.

~ 408 West Park Ct. Decatur, TX 76234 • 940-627-7001 • northtexas.va.gov ~

Wise Alzheimer’s (Support Group)

Helping people who help someone with Alzheimer’s.

~ Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday • Contact: Richard Sides • 940-2550244 ~

Resource guide for local health or social service assistance

Wise Area Relief Mission (WARM)

Provides food pantry, referral and information services, and limited financial assistance for utilities and prescriptions when funds are available.

~ 300 N. Trinity, Decatur, TX 76234 • warmtx.org • 940-626-4676 ~

Wise Choices Pregnancy Resource Center

Provides pregnancy tests; ultrasounds; peer counseling for moms and dads; pregnancy, parenting, life skills and Bible study classes; baby necessities (diapers, clothing, formula, furniture, car seats, etc.,); abortion pill reversal; STD/STI testing and treatment; resource referrals.

~ 604 N. Trinity, Decatur, TX 76234 • mywisechoices.com • 940-6276924 or 940-393-6040 • Education Center: 940-980-9200 ~

Wise County Committee on Aging (WCCA)

Provides Meals on Wheels, OWLS Activity Center, and transportation for seniors in Wise County.

~ 300 N. Trinity, Suite A Decatur, TX 76234 • 940-627-5329 ~

Wise Coalition for Healthy Children

Provides free Wise Parent Cafés- an opportunity to discuss parenting successes and challenges, engage with others, share ideas and learn proven parenting techniques and tips within a small intimate setting. Facilitator trainings are led by a licensed professional to teach community members about the Parent Café’ model and offer presentations, tips.

~ Callie Anderson, MA, Program Coordinator, Child Wellness Cook Children’s Center of Community Health • 682-885-3912 • Cookchildrencommunity.org ~

Wise County Christian Counseling

Provides individual, couples and family therapy counseling services on a sliding scale basis. Jenny’s Hope is a free grief center for children and adults.

~ 1650 S. FM 51, Suite 400, Decatur, TX 76234 • wiseccc.org • 940-627-1618 ~

Wise County Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Intervention, counseling, referral and education to abusers of alcohol or drugs and their families.

~ 105 S. Church, Decatur, TX 76234 • 940-627-3921 ~ Wise Hope Shelter and Crisis Center

Emergency safe housing, resource referrals, counseling, legal advocacy and emergency response for victims of domestic violence.

~ 608 N. Business 81/287, Decatur, TX 76234 • wisehope.org • 24-hour hotline 940-626-4855; Wise County Outreach Office 940626-4585 ~

Wise Kid Care

Provides assistance to CPS in caring for abused/neglected children. Provides Christmas gifts to needy youth, as well as counseling and education services.

~ CPS Supervisor — 2000 W. Business U.S. 380, Decatur, TX 76234 • 940-393-7830 ~

Sincerely,

TreesInc.

Tree Removal & Trimming Lot & Land Clearing

(940) 482-6545 • (940) 367-1239

Rick Gamon • Established 1969

History

Resource

guide for local historical societies and museums

Created in 1856, Wise County was named after U.S. Senator Henry A. Wise.

Three courthouses in Decatur burned before the county constructed the pink granite courthouse in the late 1800s. The courthouse opened in January 1897. An extensive courthouse restoration project began in 2023 and is expected to be complete in late 2024 or early 2025.

In eastern Wise County near the Denton County line was one of the “feeder” branches of the Chisholm Trail that shuttled cattle from Texas to meat markets north. The trail stretched 220 miles from the North Canadian to the Arkansas River.

In September of 1859, coaches from the Butterfield Overland Mail Co. southern route passed through Wise County for the first time, carrying mail, goods and passengers. Originally just north of Chico, the route later relocated through Decatur, and it went over a bridge crossing the West Fork of the Trinity River. The frontier village that developed around the crossing became known as Bridgeport.

The first settlers battled with Native Americans for control of the frontier land while establishing various communities in the county. Many of those communities would fade away as railroad companies built tracks across the county. Communities with railroad service boomed, while bypassed communities died.

During World War II, members of the 131st Field Artillery of the Second Battalion became known as the Lost Battalion after they were captured and taken to Japanese prison camps. Their families did not know their location. Many of the men were from Wise County and surrounding North Texas communities.

Learn more about Wise County history with the following resources.

Wise County Historical Commission

The commission is responsible for initiating and conducting programs concerning Wise County and Texas history suggested by county commissioners and the Texas Historical Commission. It is responsible for collecting, preserving and making available to the public the historic archives. It also reviews all applications for state historical markers before they are submitted to the THC. Due to a fire at the Wise County Heritage Museum, the commission is using a temporary location at 114 E. Main St., Ste. C, in downtown Decatur,

open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Mail can still be received at the museum address of 1602 S. Trinity St., Decatur, TX.

~ Meets: Quarterly and as needed. Contact: Mary Hilliard - 940-627-5586 - wisehistory.com wisemuseum@embarqmail.com ~

Wise County Historical Society

The organization owns and operates the Wise County Heritage Museum, 1602 S. Trinity St. in Decatur, which burned in March of 2023. Its main focus is to raise money for the rebuilding of the museum while maintaining and continuing to collect artifacts related to the history of Wise County and Texas in general. Donations may be made by credit card at the website listed below or by check by mailing to the museum address listed above. The society is using a temporary location at 114 E. Main St., Ste. C, in downtown Decatur, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Mail can still be received at the museum address.

~ Meets: Fourth Thursday except August and December (see website for times) • 940627-5586 • wisemuseum@embarqmail.com • wisehistory.com ~

Paradise Historical Society

Presentations of interest to the community are included in each regular meeting. One major fundraiser each year is the Paradise Main Street Festival, the last Saturday of September and free to the public. Funds are raised through local business sponsorships, auctions, car show and other activities. The money is used to maintain the Paradise Veterans’ Memorial Park, Paradise Museum and to support the local community. President is Jim Taylor.

~ Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday January, March, May, July, September and November at the Methodist Church in Paradise • Contact: Donna Weeden • 940-859-3691 • paradisemainstreetfestival@gmail.com • paradisehistoricalsociety.org ~

Paradise Museum

The historical museum, 216 Main Street opened in 2017 and features an exhibit on Machine Gun Kelly, a 19th century organ, exhibits honoring local veterans, railroad memorabilia, old Paradise school house photos and Paradise yearbooks from 1941-1999. Genealogical research is available.

~ Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, Friday and Saturday • Contact: Gay Read • 940-969-2021 ~

Bridgeport Historical Society

The Bridgeport Historical Society operates a historical museum at 812B Halsell St. The Society’s primary purpose is to rediscover, perpetuate and preserve the history of the Bridgeport area.

~ Meets: 11:30 a.m. third Monday at Bridgeport Lions Club Hall (1107 8th Street) • Contact: Don Majka (President) • 940-389-3821

• Contact: Kath Stinnett (Secretary) • 940-3931666 • bridgeporttxhistorical.org ~

Bridgeport Heritage Museum

Interactive exhibits and historic artifacts weave together to tell the story of Bridgeport’s history at the Bridgeport Heritage Museum. In the lower floor of the Bridgeport Visitors Center on Halsell Street, the museum features exhibits about the Butterfield Stagecoach days, oil and gas exploration and coal mining.

~ Hours: By request ~

Wise County Veterans Memorial Museum

The museum, operated by the Wise County Veterans Group, opened in 2015 and contains exhibits that chronicle the history of wars and conflicts in our country, from the Alamo to the War on Terror with emphasis on the “forgotten” wars of Korea and Vietnam. The museum makes special note of the role Texans, and particularly Wise County residents, played in our nation’s history. It’s at 1308 10th St. in Bridgeport.

~ Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday or by request • 940-683-1054 ~

cardiovascular care services with a team of dedicated and responsive specialists.

2401 S. FM 51, Suite 200

Decatur, TX 76234

Call 940-627-0044 or visit us online at www.AdvancedHeartCare.com

2401 S. FM 51, Suite 200 Decatur, TX 76234 Call 940-627-0044 or visit us online at www.AdvancedHeartCare.com

2401 S. FM 51, Suite 200 Decatur, TX 76234 Call 940-627-0044 or visit us online at www.AdvancedHeartCare.com

Jason S. Finkelstein, MD

Jason S. Finkelstein, MD

Bradley M. Leonard, MD

Trieu Q. Ho, MD NP

Jason S. Finkelstein, MD

Bradley M. Leonard, MD Brian Blatt, DO NP

Mistie Granberry, MSN

Johanna Seely Office Manager

Matthew Evans, MD Mistie Granberry, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC

Johanna Seely Office Manager

Matthew Evans, MD

Brian Blatt, DO

Jason S. Finkelstein, MD

Resource guide to local elected and appointed officials

Elected Officials

County Judge

J.D. Clark

940-627-5743 cojudge@co.wise.tx.us

Sheriff Lane Akin

940-627-5971 sheriff@sheriff.co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 1 Commissioner

John Biff Hayes

940-627-5810 comm1@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 2 Commissioner

Kevin D. Burns

940-427-4881 comm2@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 3 Commissioner

Danny Lambert 940-433-5365 comm3@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 4 Commissioner

Colby Shawn 940-683-4153 comm4@co.wise.tx.us

County Clerk

Blanca Tuma

940-627-3351 countyclerk@co.wise.tx.us

District Clerk

Loucrecia Biggerstaff

940-627-5535 districtclerk@co.wise.tx.us

Tax Assessor/Collector

Monte Shaw

940-627-3523 (tax office) 940-627-3304 (auto registration) monte.shaw@co.wise.tx.us

Treasurer

Katherine Hudson

940-627-3540 treasurer@co.wise.tx.us

County Court-at-Law No. 1

Judge Greg Lowery

940-627-5005 ccl@co.wise.tx.us

County Court-at-Law No. 2

Judge Dana Manoushagian 940-683-0268 ccl2@co.wise.tx.us

County Attorney

Che Rotramble 940-627-3321 countyattorney@co.wise.tx.us

District Judge

Brock Smith 940-627-3200

District Attorney

James Stainton 940-627-5257 districtattorney@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 1

Justice of the Peace

Jan Morrow 940-627-2694 jp1@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 2

Justice of the Peace

Kim Redman 940-626-4206 jp2@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 3

Justice of the Peace Mandy Hays 940-433-2969 jp3office@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 4

Justice of the Peace Willie Garrett 940-683-4244 jp4court@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 1 Constable Rex Hoskins 940-273-7288 constable1@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 2 Constable Galen Wiley 940-626-0027 constable2@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 3 Constable Charles Applewhite 940-433-5513 constable3@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 4 Constable Kevin Huffman 940-683-3750 constable4@co.wise.tx.us

State and U.S. Representatives

Texas House District 64 Lynn Stucky, 940-243-0230

Texas Senate District 12 Tan Parker, 512-463-0112

U.S. Representative, Texas District 26 Michael Burgess, 940-4975031

U.S. Representative, Texas District 13 Ronny Jackson, 940-285-8000

Appointed Officials

Wacy Beck, Environmental Services (911 Addressing) 940-627-9332 911addressing@co.wise.tx.us

Diana Allen, Asset Management 940-627-3312 asset@co.wise.tx.us

Ann McCuiston, County Auditor 940-627-5744 auditor@co.wise.tx.us

Chad Davis, County Engineer 940-273-7289 engineer@co.wise.tx.us

Sabra Srader, Elections Administrator 940-626-4453 | 940-6273656 elections@co.wise.tx.us

Randall Preuninger, EMS Administrator 940-627-2002 rpreuninger@ems.co.wise. tx.us

Jeff Doughty, Fire Marshal 940-627-5870 firemarshal@co.wise.tx.us

Cody Powell, Emergency Management Coordinator 940-627-5870 cody.powell@co.wise.tx.us

Beverly Kalisek, Indigent Health Care 940-627-4203 ihc@co.wise.tx.us

Clint Summers, IT Coordinator 940-626-2055 dir@co.wise.tx.us

Steven Melton, Director of Information Technology 940-626-2055 sysadmin@co.wise.tx.us

Blake Walls, Veterans Service Officer 940-627-2470 wisevets@co.wise.tx.us

Sherri Hartfield, Wise County Animal Shelter 940-627-7577 acshelter@co.wise.tx.us

*Note: These offices were current as of July 1, 2024, but some offices will change as of Jan. 1, 2025.

David Chandra, DPM

Dr. Chandra is originally from Farmington Hills, Michigan. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology from Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan and earned a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from Kent State University School of Podiatric Medicine in Independence, Ohio. He is a Foot and Ankle Specialist and Surgeon, ready to serve all of your foot care needs in our Decatur, TX office. We are excited to welcome Dr. Chandra to the NCTFA team!

• Vegetable & Herb Plants

• Roses

• Cacti / Succulents

• Fruit & Pecan Trees

• Shade Trees

• Perennials

• Bedding Plants

• Bulk Vegetable Seeds

• Shrubs

• Hanging Baskets

• House Plants

• Potting Soils

• Organic Solutions

• Yard Art / Metal Art

• Wooden Furniture

• Garden Accessories

• Lawn Fertilizer

• Chimes

• Pottery & Much

Earthworm Casting

Dry Molasses

Orange Oil

Organic Fertilizers

Diatomaceous Earth

Beneficial Bugs

Lava

Mushroom Compost

Cotton Burr Compost

Organic Vinegar

Index of Advertisers

1 Stop of Texas ..............................31

111 Beef Republic ......................... 47

1810 Storage ............................... 48

1860 Pizza Co .............................. 46

1st Choice Truck Lube, Inc ........... 97

5 Boys Restaurant ...................... 46

Adams Furniture ......................... 75

Advanced Heart Care .................. 111

Affordable Fencing ....................122

Agape & Associates .................... 43

All Metal Recycling ..................... 88

Alvord EDC ...................................51

American National Bank & Trust..... ..................................................... 90

AmeriDream Mortgage Group ...... 7

Ary Co ........................................... 17

B&R Machining Services ............ 86

Barefoot Pools ........................... 101

Beans and Taters ..........................81

Belwave ....................................... 30

Best Value Renshaw Drug ........... 35

Bisidas Water Well Drilling ............ 8

Black Insurance ......................... 107

Blessed Hands Garage ................ 47

Bomgaars .................................... 10

Bond Family Eye Care ................. 118

BPW Law ..................................... 42

Brawler Ventures ........................ 73

Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce ................................................ 47, 69

Bridgeport Halsell Street ...... 46-47

Bridgeport Main Street ............... 47

Bright Ideas Lighting & More, Inc ...

..................................................... 29

Brown’s Barber Shop .................. 46

Brown’s Custom Boots, Leather, and Repair .......................................... 80

Butter Bean Baking Company..... 43

Café’ Grace ...................................81

Cannon Realty ............................. 87

Carrillo, Sipes, Tibbels ...........42, 91

Center for Emotional Wellness ... 40

Century 21 – Joey Duncan ............ 13

Century 21 – Sue Ann Denton ..... 55

Chalet of Jewelry ......................... 67

Charis Closet Consignment Boutique ..................................................... 42

Chico Auto Parts ......................... 37

Christian B. Helm, M.D. ............... 59

Christmas in July ......................... 47

City of Bridgeport Parks & Recreation ................................... 97

Clara’s Tea Room ......................... 42

Classic Florist & Gifts ................. 46

CLW Fitness Studio ..................... 80

Cold Wave Creations ................... 47

Cook, McDonald & Company ...... 47

Cool Creek Art Gallery ................. 47

CowGirl Crap Boutique ................ 42

Crazy Pablos ................................ 46

DATCU ........................................ 100

Decatur Chamber of Commerce ..... ............................................... 37, 42

Decatur Conference Center ....... 119

Decatur Dental ............................ 37

Decatur EDC ............................ 2, 43

Decatur Eye Center ..................... 45

Decatur Garden Center .............. 117

Decatur Heat & Air, Inc.............. 123

Decatur Lions Club ...................... 97

Decatur Livestock Market, LLC ... 29

Decatur Main Street ....................41

Decatur Public Library .................31

Decatur Self Storage.................... 16

Decatur Town Square ............ 42-43

Decatur Veterinary Clinic ............. 17

Destination Bridgeport (EDC) ... 124

DFT Self Storage ......................... 73

Disabled American Veterans ...... 34

Don’s AC Service, Inc ...................81

Dos Chiles Mexican Restaurant .. 22

Dovini Italian Bar & Grill .............. 46 Duty’s Dirt .................................. 119

Station ............................. 43 Edward Jones – Jay Craddock ..... 46

Struck Design ..... 46, 118

Index of Advertisers

Justin Seed Co. ............................. 71

Karl Klement Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram ............................................. 34

Karl Klement Ford ....................... 34

Karl Klement Properties ............ 107

Ken’s Appliances......................... 87

Kenepela’s Kitchen ..................... 90

Kwik Kar Oil & Lube ..................... 83

Lamance Construction, LLC ........ 69

LaQuinta Inns & Suites.................18

Legend Bank................................ 29

Little Caesars ............................... 71

Lonestar Salon ............................ 43

Lowery Wholesale, LLC ............... 80

Lucky Nails .................................. 46

Mann Refrigeration ..................... 44

Maria’s Flower & Gift Shoppe ..... 46

Martin Marietta .......................... 53

Mary Kay – Laura M Shaffer......... 16

Maverick Fuels LLC ...................... 83

McLaughlin Supply .................... 108

McMaster New Holland............... 35

Medical City Decatur ................... 13

Mid Life Crisis .............................. 80

Midwestern State University ...... 30

Mr Subs ........................................81

Nooks ‘N Crannies ....................... 42

North Central Texas Foot & Ankle ... .................................................... 116 NRS............................................. 113

Outlaw Renovations, LLC ........... 119

Outskirts Mens Clothing & Collectibles ................................. 46

Over the Hill RV Park ....................81

Paradise Donuts.......................... 80

Paradise EDC ............................... 80

Paradise Historical Society..........81

Paradise Methodist Church ....... 107

Paradise Nutrition & Energy ....... 80

Paradise Stone ............................ 80

Parker Electric ............................ 82

Parker Properties ................. 43, 114

Patriot Storage ........................... 69

Patti’s Hair Parlor & Ect .............. 82

Pettit Private School ................. 100

Pinnacle Bank ............................. 86

Post Oak Realty ........................... 42

Precision Construction & Roofing .. ..................................................... 23

Premier Cardiology Care ............. 36

PVP Building Systems, Inc .......... 27

Reeves Automotive ..................... 40

Rooster’s Roadhouse .................. 42

Rosenbaum Dental..................... 119

Rustic Expressions ..................... 28

S&J Pharmacy ..............................31

Saddle Up Crossfit .......................18

Salt Logix Technologies............... 82

SBC Insurance ............................ 107

SDC Fine Arts Academy ............. 59

Serenity Oasis ............................. 80

Sewell & Forbes Attorneys at Law .. ..................................................... 43