Welcome to Wise 2021

Welcome to Wise

Wise County Messenger Newcomers/ Visitors Guide 2021

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A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

3

On the cover

Peaceful reflection Nate and Raegan Bayless of Decatur, along with children Teagan, Turner and Truett, enjoy a quiet moment during a recent sunset at the fishing pond at Still WaterS Retreat Center Texas in South Wise County. The center provided the perfect spot we were looking for to show the hidden beauty of Wise County on the cover of this year’s Welcome to Wise.

Still WaterS is one of two “hidden gems” featured in a story about unique Wise County getaways later in this publication.

4

Welcome to Wise

PHOTOS BY RICHARD GREENE/WCMESSENGER COVER DESIGN BY JOY BURGESS-CARRICO/WCMESSENGER

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A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

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Vincent Wealth Management operates on a solid foundation and has been affiliated with the same broker dealer — LPL Financial — since it was founded. The firm offers a variety of services including financial planning for college, retirement and family estates. They can also guide clients through corporate wealth management, employer retirement plans and wealth accumulation strategies.

Vincent takes pride in the firm’s active management approach.

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8

Welcome to Wise

thinking out-of-the-box, and we’re not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom in our approach to investing and preserving wealth.”

Vincent has personally served the North Texas community in the financial services industry for more than 30 years, starting work in the banking industry as a teenager. He founded Vincent Wealth Management in 1998, and he was named a Five Star Wealth Manager in Texas Monthly 2010 through 2013 and 2015 through 2020 for overall customer service and satisfaction.

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already making a positive impact, learning the business and continuing the firm’s long-standing tradition of excellent customer service.

Vincent said the experience behind the firm enables them to take the mystery out of investing, insurance and estate conservation for their clients.

While a self-proclaimed money management nerd, Vincent said his favorite part of the business is educating people. “I just really love talking to clients,” he said.

“I try to explain things in an easy-to-understand manner, so they can wrap their head around all aspects of personal finance.

“We feel a commitment to our community.”

Vincent, Carrillo and Hutton all call Wise County home, taking special pride in assisting their friends and neighbors. By helping families solidify their financial futures, they are also

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9

Features

Contents

14 History of Wonderful Wise

28

The 165-year history of Wise County is full of fascinating characters, grand structures, heroic sacrifices and milestone events.

22 Race to the top Paradise motocross racer Slayde Shields has his eyes set on going pro.

28 Great escapes Wise County offers a variety of unique getaways, including these two hidden gems.

36 Building boom More and more people are looking to make Wise County their home, leading to a number of new residential developments.

44 Why Wise?

Brad Neathery, Oak and Eden

45 Why Wise?

Matt and Katy Fisher, Trinity Street Coffee Bar and Roastaraunt

22 10

Welcome to Wise

Cities

Alvord .................................................................54 Aurora ................................................................55 Boyd.....................................................................58 Bridgeport .....................................................62 Chico ...................................................................67 Decatur .............................................................72 Justin ..................................................................80 Lake Bridgeport .......................................84 New Fairview ...............................................86 Newark ..............................................................88 Paradise............................................................90 Rhome ...............................................................91 Runaway Bay ...............................................92 Local Communities...............................93

36

Schools

Alvord ISD .......................................................99 Boyd ISD.......................................................100 Bridgeport ISD .......................................101 Chico ISD.....................................................102 Decatur ISD...............................................103 Northwest ISD .......................................105 Paradise ISD..............................................106 Slidell ISD.....................................................107

Need to know

Living in Wise ..........................................112 Finding your fit........................................118 Preserving local history.................122 Serving the public................................124 Helping our neighbors....................128

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

11

O

Welcome

ne of my favorite movies is the 1993 comedy “Groundhog Day,” where a frustrated weatherman finds himself repeating the same day — the second of February — over and over again in Punxsutawney, Penn. For the majority of the movie, poor Phil Connors is stuck in the same place, seeing the same people and pretty much doing the same thing on repeat for what must seem like — to him at least — an eternity.

No matter how hard he tries, or what he does, he just can’t seem to escape.

For much of the past year, many of us could probably relate to poor Phil. The COVID-19 pandemic seemed to put us in a bit of a time loop ourselves, especially those who had to work or attend school from home, canceled holiday plans and vacations and wondered how much longer were we going to need to wear masks in public.

We craved an escape.

But just as Phil finally reaches that long-awaited 6 a.m. Feb. 3, we have arrived at our own new day thanks to the vaccine and a better understanding of how the virus spreads.

It made me wonder if people who have been stuck in their own pandemic time loop may now be looking to escape to new surroundings, and if so, what could Wise County have to offer them?

As you can see in this edition of Welcome to Wise, the answer is “Quite a lot!”

We found a couple of places in Wise County that might be just the escape you are looking for, whether you crave relaxation or a walk on the wild side.

12

Welcome to Wise

WISE COUNTY MESSENGER

P.O. Box 149 • 115 S. Trinity • Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-5987 • news@wcmessenger.com www.wcmessenger.com

Roy J. Eaton President

Kristen Tribe Publisher

Mark Jordan Vice President/General Manager

Kristi Bennett Business Manager

Richard Greene Editor

Brian Knox Special Projects Mgr.

Austin Jackson Editorial

Micah McCartney Sports Editor

Joy Burgess-Carrico Graphic Artist

Mack Thweatt Editorial

Allie Tribe Intern

Lori White Advertising Manager

Laura Belcher Advertising Sales

Sandy Crump Advertising Sales

Jenifer Kozlowski Advertising Sales

Donna Bean Classifieds

Chris Reichert Graphic Artist

Jim Bob Hampton Subscriber Services

Tony Grimes Subscriber Services

David Sherman Subscriber Services

KNOX You’ll find information on what all of our towns, schools and the county have to offer in our information guide, perfect to help you make those getaway plans.

This year’s edition also includes a feature on where and why people are making a more permanent escape to Wise County, resulting in a home building boom; a feature on a local motocross racer aiming for the professional ranks; and a story on the unique history of “Wonderful Wise.”

Plus, a new feature this year is “Why Wise?” where we ask a couple of new businesses what makes them unique and why they decided to set up shop in Wise County.

Hopefully once you see some of what Wise County has to offer, you’ll start making your own escape plan to Wise County — whether for a day, a week or even a lifetime.

So don’t hit that snooze button when “I Got You Babe” starts playing on your alarm clock radio. Get up and get out to Wise.

See you soon.

Brian Knox Special Projects Manager Wise County Messenger

USPS Publication No. 688940

ISSN 0746-8679

The Wise County Messenger (ISSN 0746-8679) is published Wednesday and Friday by Wise County Messenger, Inc., P.O. Box 149, 115 S. Trinity St., Decatur, Texas 76234-0149. Periodicals class postage paid at Decatur, Texas. Subscription rates: one year in Wise County $37; one year out of county $43; one year out of state $49. An erroneous reflection upon the character, standing or reputation of any firm, person or corporation, which appears in the columns of this paper will be corrected upon due notice given to the publication at the Messenger office.

Postmaster: Send address changes to: Wise County Messenger, P.O. Box 149, Decatur, Texas 76234-0149.

940-627-5987. http://www.wcmessenger.com. E-mail: news@wcmessenger.com. © 2021 Wise County Messenger

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A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

13

BY JOY BURGESS-CARRICO

W

ise County has a rich and dynamic history dating back 165 years.

Here are just a few of the people, places and events that shaped what the Wise County Messenger in the early part of last century often referred to as “Wonderful Wise.”

Origins of raids, abductions Wise County, and killings by Texas, was formed in Comanche and Kiowa 1856. It was named native tribes, as well in honor of Henry as others who might A. Wise. He was the take advantage of governor of Virginia vulnerable pioneering at the time. Wise was families. a fervent supporter Wise County’s of Texas statehood population dropped by BISHOP 50 percent in the years and worked during his time in Congress for after the war. Settlers its annexation. It is for this reason wanted the safety of more that he was honored as county populated and better protected namesake. areas.

The original county seat The problem of raiding Native of Wise County was named Americans was resolved by 1875.

Taylorsville, in honor of President Many settlers who had scattered Zachary Taylor. returned and a steady stream In January 1858, it was of new immigrants began their renamed Decatur. stories in Wise County.

Absalom Bishop, one of The arrival of the railroad the principal founders of Wise in the ’80s and ’90s sped up County, named both the county progress. and the county seat.

Some of the towns in Wise In 1856, he thought Zachary County were formed as a result Taylor worthy. In 1858, he of the railroad depots placed changed his mind. Taylor hadn’t there. Other communities fell changed, as he’d been dead since away because the railroad passed 1850. them by.

Whatever shifted in Bishop’s Draco is one such example. thinking, he determined in 1858 Draco was a town southwest to change the name of the of Paradise. It was settled in the county seat from Taylorsville to early 1880s.

Decatur, after famous Naval hero The Dallas, Pacific and Stephen Decatur.

Southeastern Railroad planned Wise County’s population to make its way through Wise climbed steadily until 1861, County, with a stop in Draco, and when the Civil War interrupted there was hope for prosperity in everyone’s progress. the town.

Being devoid of able-bodied Sadly, the D.P. & S. failed, men, Wise County and other and no railroad was ever built rural counties became hotbeds through Draco.

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The town steadily declined from its peak in the mid 1880s until the last building was carted away in 1937. Now Draco is a field with a historical marker in it.

No other trace remains.

Courthouse Wise County has had four courthouses. The first, a log cabin 16 feet square, was short lived. It was replaced in the early 1860s by a two-story frame building.

It burned on the night of Nov. 26, 1881. The Dec. 2, 1881, Paradise Messenger states, “Some say they believe it caught fire accidentally, others say that some wretch who wanted a job had started the fatal flame, others that it was the expected culmination of the new court house agitation — it being the initiatory act, the clearing away of the rubbish preparatory to this new edifice. God knows! We don’t.”

Many of the records survived that fire.

The third courthouse went up in flames Jan. 8, 1895. Because they had long ago dismissed the night guard initially hired to save the records in case of a fire, the records went up in flames.

Despite losing all records, the tax collector, C.B. Gunn, made clear to the citizenry that they still had to pay taxes. “The fact of my tax rolls being burned has sent the impression abroad that I am not prepared to receive taxes, but this impression is erroneous..”

Before a new courthouse could be built, an issue came up that had to be resolved.

“The roof of the courthouse had hardly fallen in before petitions were being circulated and money raised to try and move the county site from Decatur,” reads the Jan. 17, 1895, Decatur News. “Bridgeport wants it, Alvord wants it, Chico wants it, and so, no doubt, does Pringle Creek and Gum.” This harkened back to the original election of Decatur née

Taylorsville as the county seat.

There were those who thought Bishop had done some dirty dealings to ensure victory for his location. “[I]t stands out luminously clear that (Absalom) Bishop was prompted by an overpowering passion to have the county capital located on the hilltop whereon the town of Decatur now stands,” writes Cliff Cates

in his “Pioneer History of Wise County.” Bishop was a firebrand who, once he decided he wanted something, vigorously sought it.

He knew where the county seat needed to be.

There were those who didn’t agree with Bishop’s vision.

The original election to have “Bishop’s hilltop” (Decatur) be the county seat was a hotly contested race. It was so heated

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that Cates, in 1907, speaks of “all those violent passions which accrued to a contest wherein rugged, elemental men are placed in opposition to each other.”

Decatur did not win the election. But neither did its biggest competitor, Deep Creek, “a mile or so south of Decatur.”

Instead, the vote was so divided that a lesser third option won the election – Cates does not tell us what it was – with “Bishop’s hilltop” coming in a close second.

But then “certain irregularities were discovered in one of the voting boxes.” Those votes were discarded, and miracle of miracles, Bishop’s hilltop won the day.

Feelings remained strong almost 40 years later and some wanted another shot at the county seat.

They got it. A special election was held in late February,1895.

Decatur, Bridgeport, Alvord and Paradise were put to the people as the candidates.

Decatur won by a landslide.

Hard feelings notwithstanding, there were many reasons not to change the county seat, and common sense won the day.

The issue has not been raised again and Decatur remains the county seat of Wise.

Now that the county seat controversy was over, the new courthouse could be built.

They took care to build it out of fire-resistant materials.

An architect named J. Riley

Gordon of San Antonio was awarded the contract.

It was completed by 1897 and cost $100,000, which some thought extravagant.

This courthouse still stands and celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2020.

Riley designed courthouses in at least 15 Texas counties. The courthouse in Wise is considered one of the best examples of his Romanesque-style buildings.

Eighter from Decatur In the entire nation, although many, many places are named after Stephen Decatur, none but ours is a county seat of a Wise County. There is only one other Wise County. It is in Wise’s home state of Virginia. Its county seat is Wise.

So “Eighter from Decatur, county seat of Wise” can only be from Decatur, Texas.

It is used when rolling dice and when the person wants to roll an eight.

The origin story depends on who you ask.

The most prevalent story is that a ranch hand on the Waggoner ranch had a crush on a girl named Ada and would say “Ada from Decatur, county seat of Wise,” when he wanted to roll an eight. He presumably associated eight with Ada because they sound similar.

Although there was a time when certain factions objected to use of the phrase (because it glorified gambling), it is embraced today as part of the

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town’s identity.

Waggoner Ranch Another aspect to Decatur’s identity is that it was home to Dan Waggoner.

“In the very earliest days of the settlement of Wise ... a young man came out from Hopkins County, driving before him a herd of cattle and horses. At his side for company and help was a ... slave boy.” From that 242 cattle and one unnamed slave worth $400, Dan Waggoner built an empire of epic proportions, and a house on a hill in east Decatur named El Castile.

His first wife, the mother of his only child, died young and he married a girl from Wise County, Sicilly (spellings vary) Ann Halsell, daughter of Electious Halsell.

Unlike many settlers, Waggoner gutted it out in Wise through the Civil War and the raiding years, despite the constant danger. He suffered many losses but didn’t lose

his second wife and son. He came out the other side of the endeavor alive and with his ranch interests intact and his instincts apparently honed to superhuman levels.

He was primarily a cattle rancher, but had his fingers in many pies. He was one of the founders of First National Bank.

He was involved in the coal mining interest of Bridgeport, and when oil was discovered, he was involved in that, although his son probably had more to do with that part of the business. He also seems to have had a general store and some mills and maybe a cotton gin or two. He owned real estate in town. And he owned land. He owned a lot of land.

El Castile still stands. It is privately owned and not open to the public.

Waggoner Ranch also still exists, but it’s not in Wise County.

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A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

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industry have changed through the years. At first, of course, settlers survived as best they could on their homesteads.

Ranching was a big part of early Wise County history.

Besides Waggoner, other prominent ranchers lived in the area.

B.C. Rhome, for whom the city of Rhome is named, is credited with being the first rancher to successfully raise

Hereford cattle in Texas.

Coal was discovered in Bridgeport in the 1860s. A coal company was formed in 1882 and existed until 1929, when the increasing prevalence of oil and gas made coal less profitable.

Because no one in the area knew how to mine coal, the company recruited miners from Mexico to work the mines in Bridgeport.

Much of Bridgeport’s

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Mexican population is descended from these original specialists contracted for their skills.

According to the research of Felix Alvarado, the broader history of Mexican immigration to North Texas flows through Bridgeport’s coal mines, Cotton farming was a large industry in Wise County during the first decades of the 20th century. Cotton gins sprang up in every town.

By the 1930s, cotton was fading and dairy was taking its place.

In 1928, the Messenger added a slogan to its masthead proclaiming Wise County to be “Dairy Center of the Great Southwest.”

The dairy center slogan was removed from the paper in 1954.

When oil began being pulled from the earth, Wise County was there, with dreams of an oil boom.

Oil and gas wells have been a part of the Wise County

landscape since the early 1900s.

Mitchell Energy dug the first Barnett Shale oil well in Wise County in 1981.

War Wise County has provided soldiers for all the major wars since its formation.

The most well-known of these soldiers are the members of the Lost Battalion.

There are several lost battalions: one during World War I; and two during World War II, one in the European Theater and one in the Pacific.

The Wise County members of the Lost Battalion were in WWII, Pacific Theater.

These were men of the 2nd Battalion, 131st Field Artillery Regiment of the 36th Infantry Division. Many, if not most, of these men were from North Texas.

The 2nd battalion of the 131st Field Artillery Regiment was sent to the Pacific in

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November 1941 to aid the Dutch in defending the Netherland’s colonies in the East Indies.

The battle didn’t last long, and the Dutch capitulated to the Japanese in February 1942.

The soldiers of the 131st Field Artillery Regiment were taken prisoner in March 1942.

They were prisoners of war for 42 months.

During that time, the men were scattered among the various POW camps, and many of them were part of the slave labor that built the BurmaThailand railroad.

There is a movie called “Bridge on the River Kwai” that is a fictional, and inaccurate, representation of their experience.

Families heard nothing from any of these men for almost three years, and they began being referred to as “the Lost Battalion.”

Between 40 and 50

members of the Lost Battalion were from Wise County. Of those, 10 never made it home.

The Wise County Historical Museum has a Lost Battalion room.

The insignia for the 131st is a fleur-de-lis on a red background with the motto “We Play the Game” underneath it.

The Wise County Sheriff’s Office has a fleur-de-lis on their shoulder patch and a bumper sticker of the insignia on their vehicles.

Both are to honor the Lost Battalion.

As Wise County continues, its heritage and history expands.

There are many aspects

of Wise history that have not been touched on here.

From alien crash landings to stage coaches, as well as many other stories and characters spanning the 150-plus years of Wise’s existence.

Welcome to the dynamic story of Wonderful Wise. It is there for you to explore. ◆◆◆

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http://www.wisedocs.com A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

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For service times, please check tfc.org 2950 W. Hwy. 380 • Decatur, TX 76234 • www.TFC.org A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

21

Race to the top

Local motocross racer aims for the pros

STORY AND PHOTOS BY AUSTIN JACKSON

S

layde Shields kept the throttle at full bore, screaming through corners and soaring into the Michigan air.

Behind him, racers on dirt bikes from across the nation kicked up dust, trying to keep up with the blur of lime green.

Shields didn’t look back. His eyes beamed through goggles as the scenery on the periphery faded. He was focused on checkered black and white.

The chase ended with Shields, a kid with spiky blonde hair and a braces-locked smile, crossing the finish line alone.

While football, soccer, volleyball, basketball and baseball are popular sports in Wise County, motocross racing isn’t too far behind. And Shields, one of the most promising racers to come out of the area in some time, fell in love with the sport as soon as he cranked his boot down on the kick-start.

“I don’t know,” Shields said, when asked why he puts himself through all he goes through to be an elite racer. “I just love it.”

The 14-year-old Paradise motocross racer won the area qualifier in Michigan, a key stop along his singular dream of racing for a living.

Currently, Shields races at the amateur national level.

Getting there has taken work.

Even though Shields is too young to drive a car, the young athlete is as finetuned as the 85cc dirt bike he rides on tracks across the country.

He watches his diet, monitors his sleep, and come race day, he performs.

“If you’re trying to be a big dog, you have to train four days a week,” Shields said.

His routine looks like this: on Monday and Tuesday, he wakes up early, eats a healthy breakfast and trains from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.; from Wednesday to Thursday, they travel; on Friday, he practices at the various tracks at each

stop; Saturday is race day. It’s wheels up through Sunday. By Monday, it starts all over again.

Shields previously attended a traditional school, but now he’s homeschooled. It’s the only way he can get to where he wants to go, while ensuring he keeps up academically.

“It’s full time,” Tony Shields, Slayde’s dad and mechanic said. “To be competitive, we had to, we had to go full time.”

As a family, the Shields tour the nation, chasing starting gates at tracks from coast to coast.

Often, home is their trailer, where three bikes and a moving garage of parts are in tow.

Paradise is where they land in between competitions. And here, in Wise County, is where an elite racer was molded — a place where speed, dirt and jaw-dropping air are a hot commodity.

“Everything you need is here,” Tony said.

In Wise County, there’s several places to go fast, find mud, rocks and fly around tracks. For racing cars, there’s Boyd Raceway and Eagle Canyon north of Decatur. If you’re into off-roading, there’s Northwest OHV park. And if you’re into motocross and ATVs, there’s Oak Hill Raceway in Alvord, River Valley in Boyd, and Rocky Ridge Ranch north of Decatur.

It was at these local tracks where Shields’ talent atop a dirt bike started to reveal itself at around age 6.

He loved to go fast. It was something

that couldn’t be taught, just harnessed.

He started getting competitive soon after, racing in Florida and Oklahoma.

But after seeing the passion and talent meld together, Tony Shields said things got really serious.

Slayde Shields knows the commitment and sacrifice required to make the professional ranks, and he’s been working hard, moving up and inching closer to his dream..

He has had some help from fellow local racers who have made it to the pro level, like Mitchell and McCoy Oldenburg, Ryder Floyd and John Short.

These pros know Shields on a personal level. At times, they share a track together. To Shields, these local pros are a present reminder of what it takes to make it to the next level and beyond.

“He has a lot of people he looks up to, but also he has pros that he has personal relationships with,” Tony Shields said. “It’s pretty cool to have that.”

Shields primarily trains at His 956 Facility in Paradise and Oak Hill, a nationally known track north of Decatur that hosted the Grand National Championship. Under the ownership of Kevin

Coleman, Oak Hill is returning to its status as a huge stop along the motocross circuit.

And while he can learn so much from various pros who were at his level and rose to the professional ranks, Shields also has help from Shannon Niday, his trainer.

Niday, one of the top trainers in the field, has taught big names in the motocross scene like Ryan Dungey, Trey

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Canard, Jason Anderson, Blake Wharton, Dean Wilson and Jessy Nelson.

Perhaps Shields will soon join that list.

In the process, his path to racing dirt bikes for a living started and continues in Wise County. Shields’ goal is to go pro by the age of 17 or 18.

He turned 14 in July, and he’s going full-bore to make sure that his dream becomes a reality. ◆◆◆

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26

Welcome to Wise

Advertorial

Service sets Decatur Heat & Air apart

S

Decatur Heat & Air is a second-generation company that offers commercial and residential heating and cooling as well as commercial refrigeration and full-service electrical.

Decatur Heat & Air began with Shaun’s father’s AC company that serviced the Metroplex from 1975 to 1995. In 1995, his father decided to move the company to Decatur to start a new company with his son.

Shaun learned most of what he knows about the HVAC business from his father. He is now leading the business.

The Decatur Heat & Air employees are well-trained experts.

“We train in-house; learning on the job is usually the best way for a lot of guys,” Shaun said. “We will also send them to outside schools with oneto two-day classes and also do a lot of in-house training.”

Throughout his over 30 years in the HVAC business, Shaun has learned that the most integral part is customer service. Shaun said customer service is “a lost art form,” and his company makes it their No. 1 priority.

haun Davie is honored to have provided excellent HVAC service for more than 26 years to Wise County through his company, Decatur Heat & Air.

They do whatever it takes to make sure their customers are 100 percent satisfied with their products, installations and services. They consider it a core value of the company.

Decatur Heat & Air’s other company values include glorifying God through the business, being honest and having integrity, being a prompt and trusted service, providing unequaled performance and accountability within their team, having the community as its mission field and knowing change is essential to growth and

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

always embracing it. “[We put] God first, allowing him to shine through the business, and I think we are blessed in return for that,” Shaun said.

Shaun believes his company’s core values and a strong commitment to customer service sets them apart from other HVAC companies and make them the best choice for consumers. ~ For all your HVAC and electrical needs, call Decatur Heat & Air, 940-627-1616, or visit decaturheat-air.com. ~

27

Great escapes Check out these hidden getaway gems

STORY AND PHOTOS BY BRIAN KNOX

F

or much of the past year, the pandemic kept people confined to their homes or communities, leading many to yearn for a little change of scenery.

If you are looking to make your escape to Wise County, I found a couple of different places off the beaten path that offer unique ways to relax and unwind.

Nestled among the wooded landscape between Cottondale and Springtown in southern Wise County, Still WaterS Retreat Center Texas can accommodate anything from a one-person stay to family reunions or corporate retreats.

It didn’t take me long to see my first glimpse of wildlife in the area as two cottontail rabbits scurried across the gravel roadway as I began my tour of the 40-acre facility.

Dene Berry, event coordinator at Still WaterS, was my tour guide for the day, and she showed me the different options visitors have to find their escape.

The two-story Still WaterS Cabin features eight beds, including six in a large

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Welcome to Wise

room upstairs, two full baths, a fully-equipped kitchen, living room and a charcoal grill/fire pit. The cabin overlooks the center’s fishing pond.

“All you need to bring is food and drink,” Berry said.

The cabin rents for $500 per night.

The Sunrise Cabin features two bedrooms, one with a queen bed and the other with two twin size beds or one king bed. It can accommodate up to six guests with a pull out couch. As the name implies, the covered front porch provides the perfect spot to watch the sun rise.

The cabin rents from $300 to $350 per night.

The Get-A-Way Cabin features a secluded place for up to four people with one bedroom with two queen beds, full kitchen, private porch with a patio area and grill and fire pit. It rents for $200 per night.

All cabins require a minimum two-night stay.

Still WaterS also provides four motel-like rooms, including one that is wheelchair accessible, for $135 to $160 per night. The center includes an on-site washateria.

But perhaps the best thing

about Still WaterS is the number of amenities it offers. In addition to the aforementioned fishing pond stocked with catfish, bass and bluegill (bring your own bait and pole), you can relax by the swimming pool, practice your skills on a fourhole putting green, shoot some hoops on a basketball halfcourt, enjoy nature along one of several walking trails, spend some quiet time in prayer or meditation at Reflection Rock or play a game of giant chess.

“It’s a great place to just R&R or have a party. We have a lot of family reunions,” Berry said.

Paul Claffey, who owns the center along with his wife, Barb, built a home on the land 40 years ago, but they decided to convert part of the property into the retreat center, which opened about 10 years ago.

It’s proven to be a popular getaway attraction.

“A lot of people come out and rent cabins for the weekend. They’ll come out with their families and fish and swim,” Claffey said.

Still WaterS is at 403 County Road 3672 in Springtown. Call 817-2202681.

All Your Insurance Needs

www.sbcinsurance.net 940-627-8888 Decatur

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

31

If you are looking for something a little more on the wild side, check out Safari Suites near Bridgeport.

Safari Suites is at the Center for Animal Research and Education (CARE), a non-profit organization that provides longterm care to dozens of animals including lions, tigers, bobcats, mountain lions, leopards, ring-tail lemurs and more.

As a nonprofit, the facility relies on donations to help continue its mission of helping these majestic animals.

For those wanting to help, and stay at a place with lions in the backyard and tigers in the front, I found just the place.

Located 16 feet above two lion and tiger enclosures, the adultsonly rooms have all the amenities you’d expect to find at a hotel: a king-sized bed, large-screen television, private bathroom, coffee maker and mini-fridge.

But it also has amenities you won’t find at your typical hotel

32

Welcome to Wise

— did I mention the lions in the backyard?

CARE’s Derek Krahn, my Safari guide on this day, said one of the most unique experiences for guests is “listening to the lions sing,” which usually happens each evening when the lions begin to roar in unison.

“It’s always great because when the sun sets and the guests are on the front porch watching the tigers play in their pools, and then all of a sudden the lions will all start roaring all at once, it’s kind of neat,” he said.

A stay at Safari Suites includes an evening tour with the animals.

In the past, some guests have even had the chance to feed the big cats chicken drumsticks, with tongs of course, under the watchful eyes of staff.

Breakfast — included with the stay — can be enjoyed on the front porch, which offers not only a view of the tigers, but also a striking view of the countryside.

And you don’t have to worry about leftovers, either — just

head next door with your leftover fruit to the lemur enclosure to hand feed them.

The staff is also always on hand to provide activities and educational visits with guests.

“We try to make it a very personalized, integrated experience, to whatever level they like,” Krahn said. “Sometimes they say, ‘I’m coming from the city where it’s very hectic and very busy and I like the idea of coming to a place that is quiet and I can kind of decompress.’ Others say they want to have a more interactive experience, a much more engaging experience, a more educational experience.”

Some guests have even enjoyed the experience so much, they became volunteers at CARE. While the facility has been closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the past year, it is planning to reopen later this summer or early fall. Krahn said he expects bookings will resume as early as August.

For information on booking a stay and rates, visit wildanimalretreat.lodgify.com.

Start planning your Wise County escape today. ◆◆◆

940-626-4595 2019 North 287 Decatur, TX 76234

Best Place for Catfish

Sunday - Thursday 11 am - 9 pm • Friday & Saturday 11 am - 10 pm A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

33

Classic Florist

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Welcome to Wise

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Facebook @bportmainstreet and Instagram @bridgeportmainst to keep updated on upcoming events.

EMBRACING THE PAST & CELEBRATING THE FUTURE A Texas & National Main Street City We invite you to come shop, dine and do business in Downtown Bridgeport!

cityofbridgeport.net . 900 Thompson St . 940-683-3411 A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

35

Building boom

New home construction remains strong in Wise STORY AND PHOTOS

BY RICHARD GREENE

J

ust off U.S. 81/287 as you cross into Wise County, hundreds of homes are under construction in the new Northstar development.

Riverside Homebuilders, just one of the developers building in the planned development spread between Wise and Tarrant County, has 2,100 lots under construction.

Up the road along Farm Road 3433, excavation equipment plows through the ground to make way for the first homes in the 10,000-home Rolling V Ranch development.

Throughout the southern portion of the county, thousands of homes are under construction or in planning stages as more people plan their move to Wise County.

They are coming from out of state and the Metroplex for a myriad of reasons.

“Many are moving for political reasons and some to be closer to events that relate to the equestrian disciplines they are a part of,” said real estate agent Lisa Caraway. “Some clients are moving to be in a smaller town and have q small amount of land to spread out in the event COVID-19 restrictions happen again.”

Growing quickly As Wise County and the rest of the nation awaits the official 2020 count from the U.S. Census Bureau, the agency released its newest estimates in June.

According to estimates for July 1, 2020, Wise County reached a population of 71,084 — an increase of 1,207 since the 2019 estimate. It is just more than an 11,000-person increase from the 2010 Census.

“It’s right in line with what we’ve been seeing with the 911 address requests,” said County Judge J.D. Clark. “Speaking with groups, I’ve been telling them I expect us to be between 70,000 and 75,000.”

The number of 911 addresses added in the past two-and-a-half years have increased steadily. In 2019, the county added 874 new addresses. Last year even during a global pandemic, the county added 954 addresses. Wise County Director of 911 Addressing Wacy Beck said through June 30 of this year, the county has added 538 new addresses.

A majority of the new homes are in the southern portion of the county from

Decatur to Springtown.

Riverside Homebuilders has been the most active builder in the county. Along with its vast number of lots in Northstar, it also is in its second phase of construction at Fairview Meadows and has recently broken ground on Hillcrest Meadows North. The company is also developing lots north of Springtown in Regent Park.

These projects follow other developments along U.S. 380, County Road 4010 and Farm Road 2264 for the builder.

“We go where people want to buy houses,” said Tim Fleet, president and founder of Riverside Homebuilders. “The people are friendly, and there’s plenty of jobs around the Alliance corridor.”

Housing crunch Even with the current construction of homes, the demand for homes in Wise County has outpaced the supply in the past year.

At the end of June, the months of

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

inventory in Wise County was 1.4 months, which was a slight increase from the 1.2 in April. The figure represents how long it would take to deplete inventory, assuming no new inventory is put on the market. That is down from 3.2 months of inventory in September 2020.

The lack of inventory has pushed sales prices skyward. In June, the median sales price for the 122 homes sold was $298,450, an increase of 15.9 percent in a year.

Homes are also not staying on the market long, selling in 24 days and taking only another 49 to close. That is 22 days less than in June 2020.

Preliminary home values were up 9.9 percent this past year with the county adding $270.5 million in new construction.

Caraway expects the hot market in the county to continue for the foreseeable future with the job growth and low interest rates.

“Unless there is a serious world event that changes the current consumer

37

confidence or if interest rates dramatically change, I don’t see the current pace or momentum changing,” Caraway said. “Our location to the Metroplex will continue to bring buyers to the market. Wise County has already survived an oil and gas cycle that moved most service companies and many oil and gas employees to relocate to West or South Texas. An oil and gas cycle usually has an impact on the real estate market, but the last cycle did not do that.”

Big changes coming The Northstar development at the Tarrant-Wise county line is developing as the new gateway to the county. But it is far from being the only planned addition quickly ushering in the new Wise County boom.

Rolling V Ranch’s transformation from a sprawling prairie into neighborhoods is underway along Farm Road 3433. Phases on the east and west side of the road near Chisholm Trail Middle School are under construction. The utilities and paving are expected to be completed in the fall of 2022 with the first homes being under construction in 2022.

Fairview Meadows on Pioneer Road in New Fairview is growing from its current 115

to an expected 750 by the end of the project.

In Boyd on Cemetery Road, ground broke in late June on the 670-home Springhill development being constructed

by D.R. Horton.

Along with the custom home projects near Paradise and Decatur, even more big

projects are coming soon, including the approximate 4,000-home Shoop Ranch on Farm Road 407 and County Line Road in New Fairview.

The escape to Wise County is only beginning. ◆◆◆

FEBRUARY

Antique Auto Swap Meet

MARCH

Rich in charm, history, beauty, pride and an abundance of opportunity.

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. Whether 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!!

Over 380 members and growing strong.

MONTHLY EVENTS • Monthly Luncheons

• Ribbon Cuttings

ANNUAL EVENTS

• Eighter From Decatur Food Truck • Chamber Auction Challenge • Christmas Tree Lighting • Annual Golf Tournament • Moonlight Madness Parade • “Put Yo Money Where Yo Mouth Is” of Lights & Shopping Event Washer Tournament

“WORKING TOGETHER TO BUILD A STRONGER COMMUNITY” 940-627-3107 • 106 S. Trinity • DECATUR VISIT WWW.DECATURTX.COM

38

Welcome to Wise

Wise County Youth Fair

APRIL

Glitzy Girls Trailer Park

MAY

Cruise Nights on the Square Eighter Food Truck Challenge Texas Scottish Festival

JUNE

Juneteenth Gathering Cruise Nights on the Square JW Hart WC Challenger PBR

JULY

Wise County Reunion

AUGUST

Full Armor Fellowship Biker Bash Taste of Wise

SEPTEMBER

Cruise Nights on the Square Eighter Bicycle Rally

OCTOBER

Cruise Nights on the Square National Night Out Paint the Town Pink Boo Bash

Decatur Main Street 940-399-9558 NOVEMBER

Decatur Swirl Lucky 7 Shopping Small Business Saturday

DECEMBER

Moonlight Madness Wise County Toy Run Woman’s Club Tour of Homes Breakfast with Santa

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501 S. Washburn St. • Decatur, TX • 940-627-2514 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 - 5:00 • Lunch: Noon - 1:00 • Closed Wednesday

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

39

Serving Wise County Since 1943

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Sharon Blessing (940) 577-2488 sharonmblessing@gmail.com

Milissa Harris (940) 389-2787 milissaharris1@gmail.com

Terresa Ashley (940) 632-8959 realtor@terresaashley.com

Jim Sutton (940) 293-7350 trinityrealtyjim@gmail.com

Sarah Lawson (817) 991-7500 realtorsarahlawson@gmail.com

104 N. Trinity St. • Decatur • 940-627-4427 trinityrealtytexas.com

40

Welcome to Wise

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1900 North Trinity Street • P.O. Box 269 • Decatur, TX 76234

(940) 482-6545 • (940) 367-1239 Rick Gamon • Established 1969

940-627-2167

COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES FOR WISE COUNTY Complimentary Pick Up and Return of your Cadillac following sales and service.

LOCATION Take Exit 462 off I-35 South Denton, Texas 76201 940.591.9663

www.JamesWoodCadillac.com

©2021 General Motors. All Rights Reserved. Cadillac®

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

41

712 US 380 • Bridgeport, TX 76426

(940) 343-0900 • tirestoretx.com Monday - Saturday 7:30AM - 7:00PM

New & Used Tires • Oil Change 4-Wheel Alignment • General Mechanic • A/C Service Brake Service • Wheel Repair

SKINNY’S REPAIR SHOP We Fix iPhones, Androids, iPads & tablets!

Lifetime Warranty on most repairs!

940-626-0098 skinnysrepairshop.com 301 S. Washburn St. Ste. A • Decatur, TX 76234

42

Welcome to Wise

Diplomate, American Board of Optometry

CALL FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

940.626.0045 BOND FAMILY EYE CARE “Professional Care Your Eyes Deserve”

Therapeutic Optometrists • Optometric Glaucoma Specialists

WWW.BONDFAMILYEYECARE.COM

2351 S. FM 51, SUITE 200 | DECATUR

CITY OF BRIDGEPORT PARKS & RECREATION

NORTHWEST OHV PARK

302 acres, 25 miles of trails, open to Jeeps, ATV’s, UTV’s, 4-Wheelers and anything taken off-road. Over 18,000 people visited the park in 2020.

Day passes must be purchased at bridgeport.recdesk.com

HIKING & BIKING TRAILS FREE OF CHARGE

202 acres, over 9 miles of trail ranging from beginner to expert levels.

101

ENDEAVOR BRIDGEPORT

380

114

From Hwy 380 head North on Hwy 101 1/2 mile; turn left at Endeavor Bridgeport Sign

940-683-3480 • CITYOFBRIDGEPORT.NET A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

43

Why Wise?

Brad Neathery, co-founder and chief marketing officer for Oak & Eden What brought Oak & Eden to Wise County/ Bridgepor t?

Bridgeport originally reached out to us via our friends, the Hayhurst Brothers. They shared the vision of Destination Bridgeport, and we were captivated. We saw what (Bridgeport EDC Director) Leah (Clark) and her team were so elegantly putting together, and we wanted to be a part of it. Along the way, we fell in love with the city and knew it was the place for us to plant our Flagship store.

Describe your business, and what makes it unique?

Oak & Eden Whiskey has pioneered and patented a technique that we call In-Bottle Finishing, where we place a 5-inch long spiral cut piece of oak into every bottle of fully aged whiskey, in order to impart new, unique, aromatic flavors to every bottle.

This technique not only allows us to create unique products at our discretion, but we also have the ability to allow the consumer to build their own custom bottle, which customers can do at our Flagship store in Bridgeport. ◆◆◆

Watergate

IRRIGATION • DRAINAGE WORK

Joey Duncan

CELL: 940.393.1197 Office: 940.683.3080 JoeyDuncan@SueAnnDenton.com www.joeyduncan.c21.com

Professional • Knowledgeable Trustworthy

Sue Ann Denton, Inc. 44

Welcome to Wise

Doug White License #2378

940-399-6440 WWW.WATERGATEIRRIGATION.COM Established 1985

Why Wise?

Matt and Katy Fisher, owners of Trinity Street Coffee Bar and Roastaraunt What brought Trinity Street Coffee Bar and Roastaraunt to Wise County/ Decatur?

Our very good friends, the Hayhurst brothers, grew up out here and had been telling us how wonderful the community is. We then met Mark Moran, who also was very excited about Decatur and Wise County, so we had to come out and see for ourselves. We pretty much fell in love with the community immediately.

We look for opportunities to be very involved in the local community, and Decatur was a natural fit. It is an amazing community full of rich history, tradition and deep roots. The sense of community and family is very strong here, and we have found a permanent home.

We hope to collaborate with other businesses and organizations to join in the growth of our community.

BRIDGEPORT: 940-683-6300

Describe your business and what makes it unique.

With so many great businesses and restaurants already up and running, we wanted to offer something very different, and with us being a coffee company, we thought sharing a coffee roasting experience with food and drink would be a great way.

We know it is different, but we hope that if given a chance, folks will like and appreciate what we are doing here in Decatur. We are a restaurant, craft coffee shop, cocktail bar, beer tap wall and coffee roaster. But hopefully more than anything else, we are a community gathering place in which to meet and enjoy life together.

We will be expanding our menu and continuing to look for ways to get better and serve our community well. ◆◆◆

| CHICO: 940-644-2218 | PARADISE: 940-969-2265 | RUNAWAY BAY: 940-575-2265 | fnbtx.com

Member FDIC W I C H I TA FA L L S

SOUTHLAKE BRIDGEPORT

FORT WORTH CHICO

PLANO

PA R A D I S E

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

MANSFIELD

BROWNWOOD

R U N A W AY B AY

45

46

Welcome to Wise

Wise Hearing Solutions, L.L.C.

Dr. Alyssa Windom Audiologist

of Wise County

Hearing Aids:

Earmolds:

Since 1979, United Way of Wise County Inc., officed in Decatur, Texas, has worked diligently to support local charities providing essential health and human services to Wise County residents. As a registered Texas non-profit corporation, United Way of Wise County conducts annual fund-raising campaigns and invests the proceeds to these local charities on the basis of their need, specific services provided, number of families served and other considerations.

– – – –

– – – –

Beginning in 2006, 100% of each dollar donated to the annual fall campaign has been invested in these United Way agencies and programs. This makes the United Way of Wise County one of the most efficient non-profit organizations in the country. When we all work together, we’re able to work wonders!

Sales Repairs Batteries Accessories

Swimming Noise Protection Musicians MP3 player/IPOD

(940) 627-7997 www.wisehear ing.net 1600 W. US Business 380, Suite A, Decatur Tx, 76234

Located in the office of ENT & Allergy Clinic, PA

From 2006 to 2021, UWWC invested over $6.5 million in direct support of local community health and human services to our residents, including access to health care, food and meals, transportation, housing/utilities, emergency assistance, disaster relief, residential mobility for the disabled, help for children with learning disabilities, juvenile diabetes training, early childhood intervention/services, preschool, social service for those with special needs, family and individul counseling/therapy, pregnancy resources, assistance for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse/neglect, substance abuse prevention education, school dropout prevention and positive youth development programs

TAYLOR Septic Pumping Service

We Pump Tanks Install New Systems • Repair Systems

Partnering with North Texas Giving Day Thursday September 23

Licensed TCEQ Disposal Site Customer Service is Our Priority Serving Wise and Surrounding Counties

Sylvia Taylor & Nina Tillery 940-627-3385 or 817-228-5048 Since 1989

• Ask your employer about payroll deduction • Ask us about a workplace campaign

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

Join Us,Call Today!

Martin Woodruff ExEcutivE DirEctor

940-627-3684

or e-mail: uwwise.ed@embarqmail.com www.wisecountyunitedway.org Facebook.com/wisecountyunitedway Donations made here STAY HERE

47

101 West Main Street • P.O. Box 905 • Decatur 940.627.8080 • 940.627.1559

Skin & Body Works Spa

We believe that Beauty is an Everyday Essential

FACIALS • LASER TREATMENTS • MASSAGE LUXURY BEAUTY PRODUCTS • BOTOX • FILLERS Watch For Specials on

Call to schedule your appointment today

Tues. - Fri. 9 am - 5 pm • Saturday Open by Appointment Only

940-683-3111

812 W.W. Ray Circle • Bridgeport, Texas 76426 www.skinandbodyworksspa.com

BUSINESS. TEXAS STYLE. A LOCATION WITH BENEFITS In the heart of Wise County, located 25 miles from Interstate 35 and Alliance Airport, and 45 minutes from DFW International Airport at the intersection of Hwys 287 and 380, Decatur boasts nonstop access to the global marketplace.

Low real estate costs combined with a business friendly attitude makes Decatur a wise choice for manufacturing and distribution. A large Opportunity Zone plus a 162-acre fully developed Industrial Park will help your business grow in Decatur.

Stone Veneer • Flagstone • Concrete Block Boulders • Grass • Sand • Decomposed Granite Fire Rock Fireplaces • Masonry Supplies 598 CR 4196 • DECATUR, TEXAS

940.627.6679

mclaughlinsupply@sbcglobal.net MON-FRI 7 AM - 4:30 PM • CLOSED SAT/SUN

mclaughlinsupply.com

48

Welcome to Wise

Bridgeport

Decatur

East Hwy 114 Paradise

CR 3259

H

598 County Road 4196 Decatur, TX 76234 Hwy 51

DECATUR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION 203 W WALNUT ST #102 DECATUR, TX 76234 940.393.0350

Boyd Springtown

DECATUR-EDC.COM

FREE Screenings in Wise County

Free mammograms and Pap tests for women without insurance and those who qualify: Mammograms for women 40 and older Must be at least 1 year since last mammogram

Funding for screenings provided by Cancer Prevention and Research Institute (CPRIT), Susan G.

Pap tests for women 21-64 years old

Komen® North & West

If you have current breast or cervical problems, please consult your physician or call 800.405.7739

and Human Services

Texas, and Texas Health Commission (HHSC).

Your health and safety are our top priority. To ensure a safe screening environment, we take all necessary precautions in accordance with the CDC and local and statewide guidelines.

M O N C R I E F.CO M A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

49

FOR

NEW PATIENT EXAM

29 CASH

$

DIGITAL X-RAY • PROMPT EMERGENCY CARE CABLE TV IN ALL TREATMENT ROOMS COSMETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY

Your Resource FOR ALL YOUR TITLE NEEDS

We Offer

• Experienced escrow officers • Fast, timely service • Responsive, proactive staff • State-of-the-art facility • Convenient closings

DR. TRAN DANG & STAFF 940-626-4441 | foreverteethtx.com 1 3 0 5 S O U T H F M 5 1 , S U I T E 1 0 0 | D E C AT U R

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & MOST INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED

NEW SALEM FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH SUNDAY 10 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . Sunday School 11 a.m. . . . . . . . . . Morning Worship Pastor - Brother Willard Kiper 806-662-0146 Deacon - Ronald W. Womack 940-627-5413

4455 S. FM 51, Decatur Approximately 4 miles South of Decatur

carwom@embarqmail.com • newsalemfwbchurch@gmail.com

We Are Here For You

L to R: Pam Walsh, Lupe Vasquez, Ruby Santos, and Brittany Unkart.

Customer Focused We understand that the buying and selling process can be stressful for everyone involved. Our professional and compassionate staff is here to help make the experience an enjoyable one.

We are always available and willing to answer any questions you may have.

203 West Walnut, Suite 103 | Decatur Established 1893

50

Welcome to Wise

trnt.net | 940-220-5502

Wise Obstetrics & Gynecology, PA

Now

TE PLE M O RC TIVE YOU TOMO NTER AU IR CE A REP

OFFERING SERVICES

A/C SERVICES • DIAGNOSTICS ELECTRICAL REPAIR • SHOCKS & STRUTS SUSPENSION REPAIR • WHEEL ALIGNMENTS FRONT END REPAIR • DIESEL REPAIR MAINTENANCE SERVICES COMPUTER DIAGNOSTICS

GENERAL AND HIGH RISK OBSTETRICS GENERAL GYNECOLOGY

Now Accepting CARECREDIT

NOW OFFERING

VOTIVA

A non-invasive treatment for Urinary Incontinence, Painful Intercourse, Skin Tightening, Excessive Sweating, Scar Remodeling, Stretch Mark Treatment, Recurrent UTI

940-627-3657 1201 N Highway 81-287 • Decatur, TX 76234 Monday - Friday 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday & Sunday Closed

90 Day Payment Plan with No Credit Check Available

Renée C. Smith M.D., FACOG

2451 S. FM 51, Suite 300 Decatur

940-626-8008 NO REFERRAL NEEDED

307 W. MAIN STREET DECATUR, TEXAS 940-626-1406 thefloristonmain.com

WEDDING PLANNING . COORDINATION . FULL SERVICE FLORIST A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

51

PROUD TO BE LOCAL STATE FARM®

Providing Insurance and Financial Services

Cary Bohn, CLU, ChFC 402 W. Walnut Decatur “Just off the Square”

O: 940-627-5616 F: 940-627-5086 cary@carybohn.com www.CaryBohn.com

M38086

Bridgeport 2014 - 2015

Total Plumbing Solutions

Serving Wise & Surrounding Counties

Fix Leaks & Stop Ups • Clean Drains • Install, Repair Pipes • Septic Systems • Camera Septic Lines • Remove, Install Gas/Electric Water Heaters, Toilets, Dishwashers, Disposals, Faucets, Tubs, Showers • Test Gas Lines, Water Pressure, Backflow.

New Construction or Remodel? Give Us a Call!

940-627-4445

We Accept “Service not measured by gold, but by the Golden Rule.”

All Major Credit Cards. www.totalplumbingsolutions.net

Supporting And Managing All Your Business’ Technical Needs.

• Locally based, in Decatur!

• Over 15 Years of Experience!

52

Springtown

Welcome to Wise

507 US Hwy 380 . Bridgeport . Texas 76426 940-683-4191

600 E. Hwy 199 . Springtown . Texas 76082 817-523-8801

onlinewithtcb.com

Cody Duncum (940) 387-3734 Saltlogix.com

Our Towns

Alvord

Alvord was originally called Nina. Mrs. L.D. Yale, who came to “the wilderness of Wise County” around 1876 as a child of nine, described Alvord as a tent town with one long frame building, housing a grocery store and one residence — a dugout that belonged to a man named Shem Hatchet.

On Sept. 27, 1882, the Fort Worth and Denver City Railroad arrived in town for the first time, having completed the line through to Wichita Falls.

Local legend tells the tale of a man named Alvord who got off the train during its inaugural visit and asked that the town be named after him. For reasons known only to themselves, the people of Nina agreed. Alvord’s first post office was established Dec. 18, 1882.

Government Jim Enochs is Alvord’s mayor. The city council also includes Brian Hatzenbihler, Heather Redder, Shane Raney, Caleb Caviness 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 Clint Mercer.

City secretary is Pam Gregg, and city bookkeeper is Susan Raines. Public works director is Doug Baker. ~ 940-427-5916 ~

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. Sam Hahn is fire chief. ~ 940-427-3361, or 911 for emergencies ◆ AlvordFire@hotmail.com ~ The Alvord Public Library at 106 E. Franklin St. is open Wednesday 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 playgrounds.

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

The Oak Hill Raceway, 1636 County Road 1270 near Alvord, is equipped for dirt bikes and other ATVs. The track is

54

Welcome to Wise

open 1 p.m. to dark Thursdays and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. ~ 940-577-2225 ◆ oakhillmx.com ~

Local Points of Interest Brushy Creek Vineyards and Winery, 572 County Road 2798, is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. ~ 940-427-4747 ◆ brushycreekvineyards.com ~ Marker Cellars Family Winery, 1484 County Road 2585, is open noon to 6 p.m.

Thursday through Sunday. ~ 214-632-0383 ◆ winery. markercellars.com ~

Annual events ~ Alvord Watermelon Festival ◆ Christmas Parade of Lights ~

Education

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

School board members are Jim Looney, Lance Thweatt, Russell Rice, Daniel Ruddick, Mark Gose, David Warren and Shane Rasmussen. 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 ~ 328 Farm Road 1655 S. ◆ 940-427-5511 ~ Alvord Elementary School ~ 711 W. Stadium Drive ◆ 940-427-2881 ◆ alvordisd.net ~ ◆◆◆

Aurora

It’s not known exactly when people started settling in Aurora, but the first proven record of land being purchased for settlement was in 1861. The post office was established in 1873.

It is said that Aurora was suggested as the name for this town by William O. Stanfield because “he felt that it was the dawn of something luminous and beautiful in the new land.”

On Aug. 21, 1882, the commissioners court voted to incorporate the town of Aurora. It was a prosperous community. Unfortunately, the infestation of the boll weevil destroyed the cotton crops and created economic problems, which was soon followed by a fire that swept through the town.

According to reports, Aurora received Wise County’s only alien visitor April 18, 1897, when an airship crashed into Judge Proctor’s windmill. The occupant of the airship was killed by the impact, given a funeral and buried in Aurora Cemetery. Although the remains were badly disfigured, the local news reported enough of the creature was left to determine he “was not an inhabitant of this world.”

Government

Terry Solomon serves as mayor. The city council includes Bill McCurdy, Deb Terrell, Jason Priakus, Pennye Shockey, Janet Derting and Jason Brummal, mayor pro tem.

City council meetings are 7:30 p.m. the first Tuesday at city hall, at 303 Derting Rd.* A precouncil workshop is at 7 p.m.

City administrator is Dr. Toni Wheeler, and deputy court clerk is Lynnell Day. ~ 817-636-2783 ◆ auroratexas.gov ~ *Note: Fire destroyed city hall in June 2021 and no temporary location had been announced as of press time.

Services

The city is protected by four resident Wise County Sheriff’s Office deputies. ~ 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 Class 5A Northwest Independent School District and some attend Boyd ISD. ~ Read more: Pages 60 and 100. ~ ~ 817-215-0000 ◆ nisdtx.org ~ ◆◆◆

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

55

D OW N TOW N

HISTORIC

Decatur SQUAR E

Walk thru time when you walk thru our door.

26 Years on Decatur Square

Antiques • Collectibles Vintage Items • Dolls Toys • Linens • Furniture

Womens & Childrens Boutique

119 W. Main St. • Decatur • 940-627-7467

MAIN STREET ANTIQUE MALL 115 W. Main St. • Decatur • 940-627-3177

Consignment Boutique

NOW BUYING: ANTIQUES • COLLECTIBLES GOLD/SILVER COINS • RECORD ALBUMS JEWELRY • OLD BOOKS 109 W. Main Street • Decatur, TX 76234

940-539-9728 Lacie Fitzgerald Owner

sweetiepiesribeyes.com

The Wright House Arts 101 S. Trinity St. • Decatur, TX 76234 Wed - Fri 10:00 - 6:00 • Sat 10:00 - 4:00

Now you can find us in the of

Heart

Decatur!

Your Local Real Estate Team

106 N. T

Nooks ’N Crannies Antiques — on the square —

Charis Closet

120 E. Main Street • Decatur, TX

044 9 4 0 - 6 2R6I-N8I T Y S T.

940-626-1588 • 940-393-0744 • 940-393-1815

Barbara & Jerry Bethurum ~ Appraisals

H E Y S U GA R C A N DY STORE

108 N . TRINIT Y ST. DECATUR

940-627-0870 LEASING

WE ARE ALWAYS NEEDING VOLUNTEER HELP

940-627-5329 • WISEMEALS.ORG

MARK MORAN 940-704-7212

109 S. Trinity St. • Decatur, TX

940-626-9770

SEWELL &

MORE THAN WAXING

FORBIS

Christopher N. Forbis

www.wcmessenger.com

102 W. Walnut St. • 940-627-2143

115 S. Trinity St.

Attorney at Law

56

Welcome to Wise

940-627-5987

SPECIALIZING IN SKIN CARE FACIALS • SPRAY TAN • WAXING

CHERYL WEBSTER ESTHETICIAN CALL OR TEXT

940-255-3068

w

Randy W. Parker Owner/Broker 2200 S. FM 51, Suite 300 • 206 W. Main St. Decatur • 940-627-9040 For more information about us and our listings, visit

parkerpropertiestexas.com

Jim Sutton

TrinityRealtyJim@gmail.com

104 N. Trinity St. • 940-293-7350

105 W. Main St. • 940-627-WISE

MEAGAN HOOD VP/MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICER

NMLS# 894173 PWMC NMLS# 315516 ●

203 W. Walnut, Suite 101 www.meaganmortgage.com

940-627-0047 Office • 940-389-0994 Mobile

101 E. Main St. • Decatur, TX

(940) 255-9943

YourCBDstoreDecatur.com

boutique Wellness Studio 105 E Main St. Decatur, TX, 76234 940-539-3000 thewelldecatur.com

Life LifeInsurance Insurance Life Insurance Retirement Planning Retirement Planning Retirement Planning Financial Services

1 0 3 W. M a i n | D e c at u r 940-255-9473

203 West Walnut • Suite 103 Decatur, Texas 76234

940-220-5502 • FAX 940-626-4538

Stephanie Newbury,FIC FIC Stephanie M. M. Newbury, Suite Stephanie C-3 M. Newbury, FIC Suite C-3 114 E.Suite MainC-3Street 114 E.Decatur, Main 114Street E. Main TX 76234Street Decatur, TXDecatur, 76234TX 76234 B 940-305-0366 B 940-305-0366 C 682-551-5800 B 940-305-0366 C 682-551-5800 stephanie.m.newbury@mwarep.org Registered representative. Securities offered through MWA Financial Services Inc., a C 682-551-5800 stephanie.m.newbury@mwarep.org Registered representative. Securities offered through MWA Financial Services Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Modern Woodmen of America. Member: FINRA, SIPC. PRO0414 wholly owned subsidiary of Modern Woodmen of America.

Member: FINRA,Financial SIPC. stephanie.m.newbury@mwarep.org PRO0414 Registered representative.

Securities offered through MWA Services Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Modern Woodmen of America. Member: FINRA, SIPC. PRO0414

Financial Services Financial Services

NMLS#70876 NMLS#1006654

Whether you plan to spend a day or a lifetime we welcome you to

Wise County & the historic Decatur Square.

106 S. TRINITY 940-399-9558 www.decaturmainstreet.com

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

57

Boyd

Boyd is a town built by the Rock Island Railroad. In 1893, it was among the new towns springing up as a result of the railroad’s trek across Texas. The town lies on a curve of the Trinity River’s North Fork. It was originally referred to as Greasy Bend because early settlers fattened their hogs on the native pecans growing in abundance.

When the railroad came through the area, they initially named the new town Parkhurst. The name was changed to Boyd within a few months because Park Springs, just four stops away on the Rock Island, was too similar to Parkhurst, and officials feared confusion. Since Parkhurst was the younger town, it was the one to change.

Boyd’s first post office was established on Sept. 30, 1893, in the Cook Brothers General Store, which also offered groceries, hardware, general merchandise, a funeral parlor and a barber shop. Boyd was incorporated in 1895. Its early ordinances included prohibitions against abusive language, leaving teams hitched, fireworks and regulating campfires in the streets.

DECATUR

2200 S. FM 51, Suite 300 206 W. Main St.

Government

Rodney Holmes serves as mayor, and Mark Culpepper is mayor pro tem. Council members include Ashley Frisinger, Randy Adams, Jeff Leavell and Jeff Clark.

The council meets 6:30 p.m. the first and third Thursdays at Boyd Community Center, 420 E. Morton Ave. City hall is at 100 E. Rock Island Ave. Greg Arrington is city administrator, and city secretary is Sherrie Dast. ~ 940-433-5166 ◆ cityofboyd.com ~

Services

The Boyd Police Department employs seven full-time officers. Dwayne Taylor serves as police chief. ~ 940-433-8400 ~ The Wise County ESD No. 1/Boyd Fire Department provides protection to the city and surrounding areas. Scott Estes serves as fire chief. ~ 940-433-2085, or call 911 for emergencies ~

BOWIE

1616 E. Wise Street

940-627-9040

For more information about us and our listings, visit

parkerpropertiestexas.com

58

Welcome to Wise

Boyd (continued) 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, 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, x420 E. Morton Ave., includes a full service kitchen, banquet tables and chairs, a stage and space to accommodate up to 300 people. ~ 940-433-5166 ~ The Boyd Senior Citizens Center at 420 E. Morton Ave. features a potluck lunch and domino and card games starting at 10 a.m. Tuesdays and

Thursdays.

mini stock cars. ~ 940-433-5166 ~

The Boyd Raceway, 376 Raceway Lane, south of the city, hosts races every Friday night mid-March through August.

The quarter-mile, semi-banked dirt track hosts races with stock cars, modified cars, sport modified cars, hobby stock cars and

Here North Texas WeForAre All Your Sports Medicine Physical & Rehabilitation Therapy Needs!

Monday 8:00am – 5:00pm Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 8:00am – 12:00pm Closed Tuesday, Saturday, Sunday

LEFT to RIGHT: Kensley Turner, Adrienne Easter - LPTA, Dale Roth - PTA ATC, Corinna Bafa - PT, Nancy Culpepper

northtexassportsmedicine.com

Father Reehan S. Antony, SAC Anto Vijayan, SAC Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1305 Deer Park Decatur

St. John the Baptizer 1801 Irvin St. Bridgeport

St. Mary’s 1186 Hwy. 148 Jacksboro

Main Office 940-683-2743 • jbdcatholics.org

Youngs Tank, Inc. We at Youngs Tank strive to design, manufacture and sell the highest quality aluminum truck tanks and trailers. We have been serving the petroleum industry since 1985. Wise County is our home and we believe in giving back to the community through our support of many local projects and programs.

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

Wise & Jack Counties Catholic Communities

2800 S. FM 51 • Suite B Decatur, TX 76234

940-627-7532

~ 817-229-0287 ◆ boydraceway.com ~ River Valley Motocross, 733 County Road 4757 near Boyd, offers an outdoor dirt track and a kids/beginner track.

F R E E D E L I V E RY • D R I V E T H R U

Prescriptions in 15 minutes or less Same Day Compounding • Fast & Friendly Service Immunizations • B-12 Shots Gifts and Tyler Candle Company

We Accept All Major Insurance Plans MON. - FRI. 9AM - 6PM • SAT. 9AM - 1PM

Boyd, Texas • 940-433-8441 • 800-345-7952 Fax: 940-433-2092 • Email: contact@youngstank.com

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

1101 Eagle Dr. • Decatur, TX 76234

940-627-5400 • www.sandjrx.com

59

Boyd (continued) Local Points of Interest The Wild Animal Sanctuary Texas, formerly International Exotic Animal Sanctuary, 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. ~ 940-433-5091 ◆ wildanimalsanctuarytexas.org ~ TF Vineyard and Winery, 162 Private Road 4689, is open Thursday through Saturday. ~ 940-535-5622 ◆ tfvineyard.com ~

60

Welcome to Wise

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

Superintendent is Dr. Tamara Vardy. School board members are Bill Childress, Kyle Erwin, Jeremy Lambert, Trae Luttrell, Marty Cain, Krista Barber and Kenneth Shepherd.

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

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Bridgeport In 1860, Colonel W.H. Hunt and others built a toll bridge across the Trinity River. The first bridge, which was made of cottonwood, soon crumbled into the river, and an iron bridge was constructed.

The bridge was built to provide an easier river crossing for the Butterfield Overland Mail Trail, a stagecoach service that carried passengers and U.S. mail from St. Louis and Memphis to San Franscisco. The formation of the town began shortly after the building of the first bridge. The name Bridgeport seems to be a result of its being the town at the entry point of the bridge.

The Rock Island Railroad came close to the old town of Bridgeport in 1893, and the town of Bridgeport moved east to be closer to the railroad.

In 1931, a dam was constructed three miles west of town on the West Fork of the Trinity River, forming Lake Bridgeport.

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Welcome to Wise

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Bridgeport (continued) Government Randy Singleton is Bridgeport’s mayor.

City council members include Kathy Kennedy, Kevin Lopez, Susan Coffman, Sylvia Ramirez and Linda Vassar. Council meetings are held 6 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays at city hall, 900 Thompson St. Christie Hale is city secretary. ~ 940-683-3400 ◆ cityofbridgeport.net ~

Services The Bridgeport Police Department includes 16 officers (including two school resource officers, the chief, one captain and three sergeants), five dispatchers, one animal control officer, one code enforcement officer.

Police Chief is Steve Stanford. ~ 940-683-3430 ~ Fire protection and first responder services are provided by the Bridgeport Fire Department. David McComis is fire chief. ~ 940-683-3446, 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. ~ 940-683-3455 ~ Bridgeport Public Library, 2159 10th St., has 36,000 books, magazines, audiobooks, newspapers, DVDs, and videos available for use by the public. Marisol Cano is library services director. ~ 940-683-3450 ~ Wise Health System Urgent and Primary Care, 1905 Doctors’ Hospital Dr., provides medical care 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week. ~ 940-683-0300, or call 911 for emergencies ~

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 2021 are noon to 8 p.m. ~ 940-683-3480 ~

The city operates four public parks.

Harwood Park, 707 Hovey St. near downtown, includes playgrounds, picnic tables, pavilion, a walking trail, lights, barbecue grills, open play area, horseshoe pits, a six-hole 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, open play area and restrooms.

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 ~

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A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

63

Bridgeport (continued) 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 ~ 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

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Comprehensive Orthopedic Care for the Entire Family 64

Welcome to Wise

Wise Health Clinics - Putting our Patients First Your Comprehensive Health Care Team At Wise Health Clinics, we are committed to providing quality, specialized care for you and your family.

We offer a full range of primary and specialty care services for all ages, including:

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Caring for Patients of All Ages Each Wise Health Clinic offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. We believe that you should trust your care provider and feel at ease when you visit any of our clinics.

Wise Health Clinics gives you quality care close to home with our convenient locations throughout Wise County. Our staff is committed to building positive, long-lasting relationships with our patients, giving us the ability to provide truly effective care.

Each patient benefits from experienced and qualified physicians and staff with a patient-centered approach.

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

65

Bridgeport (continued) (CARE) is to provide for the rescue, rehabilitation and holistic nurturing of sick, injured and abused big cats. CARE is home to snow leopards, cougars, leopards, lions, white and orange tigers, a bobcat, ring-tail lemurs and llamas. CARE 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 ~ Mother/Son Sock Hop ◆ Spring Bridal and Quinceanera Show ◆ Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce Banquet ◆ Southern Rock Bouncing ◆ DaddyDaughter Dance ◆ Easter Eggstravaganza ◆ Butterfield Stage Days ◆ Mother/ Daughter Tea Party ◆ Fall Bridal and Quinceanera Show ◆ Middle School Pool Party ◆ Taste of Bridgeport ◆ Spooktacular Fall Festival ◆ Suit Up and Say Boo ◆ Santa and the Stagecoach ◆ Lights on Halsell Christmas Parade ◆ Breakfast with Santa ~

Seasonal or recurring events ~ Girls Night Out ~

Education

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

School board members include Jim Bost, Charles Mauldin, Duane Sutherland, Kailynn Hudson, Scott Hiler and David Lawson.

Administration office ~ 2107 15th St. ◆ 940-683-5124 ~ Bridgeport High School ~ One 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 ◆ 940-683-5955 ~ Bridgeport Alternative Learning Center ~ 1101 17th St. ◆ 940-683-1830 ◆ bridgeportisd.net ~ ◆◆◆

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Welcome to Wise

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Sometime in 1875, J.T. Brown, from Chico, Calif., came to Wise County and bought land and opened a general store.

Brown organized the town and petitioned to call it Chico, presumably after his hometown.

Others suggested Brownstown and Mountville. Chico won the vote of seven men by one vote, and Chico, Texas, came into existence in 1876.

The Rock Island Railroad arrived in town in 1893, causing a boom in population.

Chico was a retail center for cotton farmers and remained economically dependent on agriculture until the 1940s, when oil was discovered.

Chico

Government Colleen Self serves as mayor. The city council includes Mayor Pro-Tem Greta McDaniel, Maryalin Bridges, Jimmy B. Counts, Colleen Self and Gary Fatheree.

The council meets 7 p.m. the first Tuesday at city hall, 400 S. Hovey.

Pamela Mills 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 ~

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Chico (continued) 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. Monday through 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, a gazebo, 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 and tent camping. ~ 940-644-1910 ◆ co.wise.tx.us (under the “Public Works” heading) ~ The Chico Senior Center is at 201 S. Buffalo St. ~ 940-644-2218 ~ The Chico Veterans Memorial, which honors those who have served our country, is on the town square.

Local points of interest O.G. Cellars, 704 County Road 1895, is a boutique winery in the rolling hills of Northwest Wise County. It is open Thursday through Sunday. ~ 940-867-7669 ◆ ogcellars.com ~

ARE YOU

READY?

Annual Events ~ Chico Fest ~

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

School board members are Tim Raley, Steven Cox, G.A. Buckner, Dusty Sides, Barbara Kay, Doug Bowyer and Jada Grooms. Randy Brawner is superintendent.

Administration office ~ 1120 Park Road ◆ 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 ~ ◆◆◆

Thank You for Supporting Meals on Wheels and Wise County Committee on Aging!

CITY, SCHOOL, COUNTY, STATE, FEDERAL, TAX, LOCAL OPTION, BOND Elections happen every year. Are you registered?

Have you moved? Is your information correct?

Do you have a current voter certificate with the correct information?

The Wise County Voter Registration Office is here to make sure YOU ARE READY to exercise your right to vote.

Wise County Elections 200 S. Trinity, Decatur Come by or call 940-626-4453 or wisecountytx.gov

68

Welcome to Wise

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A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

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Decatur

The first settlers came to the Decatur area in 1853.

It has always been a way-station of some type. Initially, when it was known as Taylorsville, it was a stop on the stagecoach line that ran from Fort Worth to Fort Richardson. The Chisholm Trail came through the eastern part of Wise County close to Decatur and in 1882, the Fort Worth and Denver City Railway arrived. The availability of transportation was vital to the growth of a community, and Decatur has always been fortunate to be accessible.

Government

Mike McQuiston serves as mayor, and Melinda Reeves is the mayor pro tem.

Council members are Eddie Allen, Darlene Hilton, Jake Hayes, Ben Bennington and Will Carpenter. The council meets at 6 p.m. the second and fourth Monday at Decatur City Hall, 201 E. Walnut St. Brett Shannon is city manager. City secretary is Diane Cockrell. ~ 940-393-0200 ◆ decaturtx.org ~

Services The Decatur Police Department

72

Welcome to Wise

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. Nate Mara serves as chief. ~ 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 weight-

bearing capacity. The runway is accessible 24 hours a day. ~ 940-627-2855 ~ Decatur, Wise County and the surrounding area is served by Wise Health System, 609 Medical Center Dr. ~ 940-627-5921 ◆ wisehealthsystem.com ~ The Decatur Public Library, 1700 S. Farm Road 51, offers a mix of education, literature, technology and collaborative experiences for all ages. ~ 940-393-0290 ◆ decaturpubliclibrary.com ~

Decatur (continued) Visiting The Decatur Visitors Center, 106 South Trinity Street, 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 made with Lasater by appointment.

In addition to providing information on the city and the surrounding area, the center also regularly hosts art shows put on by the Wise County Art Association. ~ 940-399-9558 ◆ decaturmainstreet.com ~ The Decatur Chamber of Commerce office is at 106 S. Trinity. Misty Hudson serves as executive director. Cason Caraway 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. The newest addition, which opened in May 2018, is the 107-room Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott located at the DCC site, allowing the center to host multi-day events and conventions. ~ 940-393-0280 ◆ decaturciviccenter.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 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, a large playground and a skate park.

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.

Louida “Big Mama” 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

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A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

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Caring For Our Community A Culture of Excellence at Wise Health System Our ”Why”

“We provide care, because it’s personal for us – it’s about our patients and their families, our community and our employees. We are passionate about the care we provide, because we care deeply about the people receiving it.”

Jason Wren

CEO/President Wise Health System

Over the last few years, Wise Health System has been working towards establishing a framework for our foundation of excellence with the intent to become a better organization. This journey to excellence requires long-term commitment at every level. Guided by our mission and vision, we are continuously seeking to improve the quality of life for our community.

Our Core Values Our core values are those qualities on which our organization stands and operates. These values are a reflection of our culture and our character. Our

74

Welcome to Wise

employees are the source of our strength and our success.

We encourage and support their involvement and growth to uphold these values as the foundation of excellence.

Our culture is vitally important to our success.

Certain core values drive how we provide this care.

We take seriously our obligation to build and protect our culture. We use the acronym Be W.I.S.E. to remind ourselves that how we deliver care is as important as the care itself.

We are excited about this journey and looking forward to the future serving our community.

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Decatur (continued)

and the “Path of Sacrifice and Valor” commemorating American conflicts.

The park hosts numerous veterans events each year.

The Decatur Golf Club features a ninehole course that is mostly open with trees lining the outside of a few fairways. The club is located at 211 Country Club Dr. and is open six days a week (closed Mondays). ~ 940-627-3789 ◆ decaturgolfclub.com ~

EXTRAMOSTBESTEST®

The Decatur Senior Citizens Center is located at 1200 N. Miller St. ~ 940-627-2926 ~

Annual events ~ Decatur Swap Meet ◆ Daddy-Daughter Dance ◆ Easter Brunch ◆ Glitzy Girls Trailer Park Event ◆ Eighter Food Truck Challenge ◆ Texas Scottish Festival and Highland Games ◆ Mother’s Day Brunch ◆ Juneteenth

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Celebration ◆ Put Yo Money Where Yo Mouth Is Washer Tournament ◆ Eighter from Decatur Bicycle Rally ◆ 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 ◆ Moonlight Madness ◆ Decatur Woman’s Club Tour of Homes ◆ Breakfast with Santa ◆ Santa on the Streets ◆ Radiance! Holiday Lights ~

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Welcome to Wise

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78

Welcome to Wise

Decatur (continued) 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.

School board members are Thomas Houchin, Chris Lowery, Jennifer Wren, Kristy Campbell, Dylan Barnes, Melonie Christian and Marsha Hafer.

Administration office ~ 307 S. Cates St. ◆ 940-393-7100 ~ Decatur High School ~750 East Eagle Summit Dr. ◆ 940-393-7200 ~ McCarroll Middle School ~ 1201 West Thompson St. ◆ 940-393-7300 ~ STEM at Enis Elementary ~ 1200 Eagle Dr. ◆ 940-393-7327 ~ Carson Elementary School ~ 2100 Bus. 81/287 South ◆ 940-393-7500 ~ Rann Elementary School ~ 1300 Deer Park Rd. ◆ 940-393-7600 ~ Young Elementary School ~ 379 Buchanan Road ◆ 940-393-7400 ◆ decaturisd.us ~ ◆◆◆

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79

Justin

The area that Justin occupies today was originally settled by a band of French colonists, who, in 1848, established the Icarian Colony, which was meant to be a utopian community where all would share wealth on an equal basis and all private property and capital would be abolished. It was a fiasco from beginning to end. The community was abandoned by the winter of 1849.

The area remained sparsely populated until the 1880s. In 1883, lots began to sell, a general store was opened and a community center for farmers emerged. A few years later the Santa Fe railroad extended its line from Fort Worth. The community petitioned for a post office in 1887 and asked to be named Justin, in honor of Walter Justin Sherman, chief engineer of the Santa Fe line.

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Bariatric Surgery: Bariatric Surgery: Arsalla Islam, MD, FASMBS Vascular and Bariatric Surgery Arsalla Islam, MD, FASMBS Decatur 940-202-7876 Vascular• and Bariatric Surgery Fort Worth • 817-562-5905 Decatur • 940-202-7876 Fort Worth • 817-562-5905 Heath Smith, MD, FACS General and Bariatric Surgery Heath Smith, MD, FACS Decatur 940-626-8820 General •and Bariatric Surgery Decatur • 940-626-8820 Cardiothoracic Surgery: Cardiothoracic Surgery: Stephen Hudgens, MD Jeffrey Lin, MD Stephen Hudgens, MD Carlos JeffreyMacias, Lin, MDMD Cardiothoracic Carlos Macias, Surgery MD Decatur • 817-380-6621 Cardiothoracic Surgery Decatur • 817-380-6621 Counseling: Counseling: Megan Adams, LCSW, CEAP, CDWF Greg Gibbons, Megan Adams,LMSW LCSW, CEAP, CDWF Lisa Social Worker GregHernandez, Gibbons, LMSW Juli LisaHowdeshell, Hernandez, Social Social Worker Kelly Jones, LCSW,Social CCISM Juli Howdeshell, Worker Dana Lee, LPC, LCDC Kelly Jones, LCSW, CCISM Cari Whitenburg, LMSW Dana Lee, LPC, LCDC Center for Emotional Wellness Cari Whitenburg, LMSW Decatur • 940-539-0683 Center for Emotional Wellness Decatur • 940-539-0683 Dermatology: Dermatology: Novie Sroa, MD Dermatology Novie Sroa, MD Decatur • 940-539-8687 Dermatology Decatur • 940-539-8687 Family Medicine: FamilyBlaylock, Medicine: Leisha FNP-C Leisha &Blaylock, FNP-C Family Sports Medicine Family & Sports Medicine Bridgeport • 940-683-0347 Bridgeport • 940-683-0347 Mauro Ganzon, MD Mauro Ganzon, MD Primary Care - Boyd Primary Care - Boyd Boyd • 940-433-2151 BoydMcBride, • 940-433-2151 Jena FNP Jena McBride, FNP Primary Care - Boyd Primary Care - Boyd Boyd • 940-433-2151 Boyd • 940-433-2151 Alicia McCue, FNP-BC Alicia McCue, FNP-BC Community Health Clinic Community Health Clinic Decatur • 940-626-3888 Decatur • 940-626-3888

Provider Directory Provider Directory

Elizabeth Mathews, FNP Family & Sports Medicine Elizabeth Mathews, FNP Decatur 940-626-8810 Family &•Sports Medicine Decatur • 940-626-8810 Ryan Matthiesen, DO Family & Sports Medicine Ryan Matthiesen, DO Decatur 940-626-8810 Family &•Sports Medicine Argyle Decatur• 940-600-4145 • 940-626-8810 Argyle Moore, • 940-600-4145 James FNP Primary Care - FNP Boyd James Moore, Boyd • 940-433-2151 Primary Care - Boyd Boyd • 940-433-2151 Lauren Morton, FNP Primary Care - Boyd Lauren Morton, FNP Boyd • 940-433-2151 Primary Care - Boyd Boyd • 940-433-2151 Michael Shaffer, DO Family Sports Medicine Michael&Shaffer, DO Bridgeport • 940-683-0347 Family & Sports Medicine Argyle • 940-600-4145 Bridgeport • 940-683-0347 Argyle • 940-600-4145 Alissa Sobieraj, PA-C Community Health Alissa Sobieraj, PA-CClinic Decatur • 940-626-3888 Community Health Clinic Decatur • 940-626-3888 Kelley Tibbels, MD Family & SportsMD Medicine Kelley Tibbels, Decatur 940-626-8810 Family &•Sports Medicine Decatur • 940-626-8810 General Surgery: General Surgery: Christopher Moeder, MD Robotic General Surgery Christopher Moeder, MD Decatur • 940-539-0707 Robotic General Surgery Decatur • 940-539-0707 Heath Smith, MD, FACS Heath Smith, MD, FACS General and Bariatric Surgery General and Bariatric Surgery Decatur • 940-626-8820 Decatur •Medicine: 940-626-8820 Internal Internal Medicine: Martin Ruiz, MD Martin Ruiz, MD Internal Medicine Internal Medicine Decatur • 940-489-4212 Decatur • 940-489-4212 OB/GYN: OB/GYN: Russell Edwards, DO Russell Edwards, DO Obstetrics and Gynecology Obstetrics and Gynecology Decatur • 940-627-2409 Decatur • 940-627-2409 Haslet • 817-369-5876 Haslet • 817-369-5876 Kellie Flood-Shaffer, MD, FACOG Kellie Flood-Shaffer, MD, FACOG Obstetrics and Gynecology Obstetrics and Gynecology Decatur • 940-627-2409 Decatur • 940-627-2409

Kelly Swofford, FNP-C Obstetrics and FNP-C Gynecology Kelly Swofford, Decatur • 940-627-2409 Obstetrics and Gynecology Decatur • 940-627-2409 Oncology: Oncology: Claressa Donley, FNP-C Neelima Donley, Maddukuri, MD Claressa FNP-C Cancer Center at WHS Neelima Maddukuri, MD DecaturCenter • 940-626-2300 Cancer at WHS Decatur • 940-626-2300 Pain Management: Pain Riley Management: Pena, MD Pain Management Riley Pena, MD Decatur • 940-626-2494 Pain Management Decatur • 940-626-2494 Pediatrics: Pediatrics: Leslie Hollis, MD Jesse Rivera, FNP Leslie Hollis, MD Wise Pediatrics Jesse Rivera, FNP Decatur • 940-626-4400 Wise Pediatrics Decatur • 940-626-4400 Robotic Surgery: Robotic Surgery: Christopher Moeder, MD Robotic General Surgery Christopher Moeder, MD DecaturGeneral • 940-539-0707 Robotic Surgery Decatur • 940-539-0707 Pulmonology: Pulmonology: Naishadh Brahmbhatt, MD Harpreet Suri, MD Naishadh Brahmbhatt, MD Eugene Veley, Harpreet Suri, MD Pulmonology Eugene Veley, MD Decatur • 940-627-1435 Pulmonology Decatur • 940-627-1435 Sports Medicine: Sports Medicine: DO Ryan Matthiesen, Ryan Matthiesen, DO Family & Sports Medicine Family & •Sports Medicine Decatur 940-626-8810 Decatur • 940-626-8810 Argyle • 940-600-4145 Argyle • 940-600-4145 Michael Shaffer, DO Michael DO Family &Shaffer, Sports Medicine Family & Sports Medicine Bridgeport • 940-683-0347 Bridgeport • 940-683-0347 Argyle • 940-600-4145 Argyle • 940-600-4145 Vascular Surgery: Vascular Surgery: Arsalla Islam, MD, FASMBS Arsalla MD, FASMBS VascularIslam, and Bariatric Surgery Vascular Bariatric Surgery Decatur •and 940-202-7876 Decatur • 940-202-7876 Fort Worth • 817-562-5905 Fort Worth • 817-562-5905

Visit WiseHealthClinics.com for more information on locations, services and providers Visit WiseHealthClinics.com for more information on locations, services and providers A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas 81

Justin (continued) Government

Elizabeth Woodall serves as mayor.

The city council includes Mayor Pro Tem James Clark, John Mounce, Tomas Mendoza, Chrissa Hartle and Jim Tate.

The council meets 7 p.m. the second and last Monday at city hall, 415 N. College Ave. Chuck Ewings is city manager, and city secretary is Brittany Andrews. ~ 940-648-2541 ◆ cityofjustin.com ~

Services

Police protection is provided by the Justin Police Department. Alex Cross is chief. ~ Phone: 940-648-2541 ~ The Justin Volunteer Fire Department serves the city and surrounding areas. Matthew Mitchell is fire chief. ~ Phone: 940-648-2561 ~ The Justin Public Library, 408 Pafford, is open Tuesday-Friday and provides services for lifelong learning. ~ Phone: 940-648-2541, ext. 6 and ext. 3 after 5 p.m. ~

Parks and Recreation Justin has several neighborhood parks.

City Hall Park includes children’s play structures, a tennis court, sand volleyball court, backstop for a practice field and covered pavilion with a barbecue grill.

Community Park includes a concrete walking trail, children’s play structures, three baseball/coed softball fields, one youth softball and two soccer fields and disc golf course.

Reatta Park includes a basketball court, walking trail, children’s play structures, pond with observation deck and a covered pavilion with barbecue grills.

Bishop Park includes a historical marker, creek, observation deck, picnic tables and barbecue grills.

Tally Park features a pond for catchand-release fishing only.

Timberbrook Park features the beginning of a trail system just north of Timberbrook Parkway along Oliver Creek.

Local Point of Interest Texas Motor Speedway, 3545 Lone Star Circle, hosts two NASCAR races per year, including a fall date during the SprintCup chase.

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Education Justin is in the 5A Northwest Independent School District. Students attend three elementary schools, a middle school and a high school.

Administration office ~ 2001 Texan Drive ◆ 817-215-0000 ~ Justin Elementary School ~ 425 Boss Range Road ◆ 817-215-0800 ~ Clara Love Elementary ~16301 Elementary Drive ◆ 817-698-6600 ~ Hatfield Elementary ~ 2051 Texan Drive ◆ 817-215-0350 ~ Gene Pike Middle School ~ 2200 Texan Drive ◆ 817-215-0400 ~ Northwest High School ~ 2301 Texan Drive ◆ 817-215-0200 ◆ nisdtx.org ~ ~ Read more: Pages 91 and 105 ~ ◆◆◆

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wiseballetandmusic.com 82

Welcome to Wise

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83

Lake Bridgeport

The City of Lake Bridgeport is a community that developed after the formation of the lake that shares its name. The dam was built in 1931.

Government

Sherry Pewitt serves as mayor, and Earl Foster is mayor pro tem.

Other council members include Nick Bilby, Andy Smith, Jeff Davis and Chris Lowe.

Wanda Vick is city secretary.

City council meetings are held at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month at city hall, located at 301 S. Main St. ~ cityoflakebridgeport.com ◆ 940-683-2700 ◆ citylkbport@gmail.com ~

Services

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

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84

Welcome to Wise

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 ~ ~ Read more: Page 66 and 101 ~ ◆◆◆

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New Fairview

New Fairview began as Fairview in the early 1900s. It was incorporated in 1973. The name of the town was changed in 1999 to New Fairview.

Government

or call 911 for emergencies ~ The East Wise Fire Department serves the New Fairview area. Jim Blackney and David Plankey serve as fire chief. ~ Phone: 940-626-8094 ~

Nolan Schoonmaker is mayor. The city council includes Mayor Pro Tem Mikey Malone, Cindy Poe, John R. Taylor, Steve Misner and Julie Burger.

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

Interim city administrator is Ben Nibarger. City clerk is Brooke Boller, and city secretary is Monica Rodriguez. ~ 817-638-5366 ◆ newfairview.org ~

Education

New Fairview students attend either Class 4A Decatur ISD or Class 5A Northwest ISD. Decatur Administration office ~307 S. Cates ◆ 940-393-7100 ~ Northwest Administration office ~ 2001 Texan Drive, Justin ◆ 817-215-0000 ~ ~ Read more: Pages 91 and 105 ~ ◆◆◆

Services The city is protected by two resident deputies from the Wise County Sheriff’s Office. ~ Phone: 940-627-5971,

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86

Welcome to Wise

Rev. Rick Davis

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87

Newark

The first settler to the Newark area came in the 1850s. Mr. Benjamin B. Haney left his home in Cass County and built a log cabin by 1854. A post office was granted to Haney in 1855, and the town named Odessa was established. Newark can boast the first post office in Wise County. In fact, the post office existed before Wise County existed. In 1866, the Odessa post office was discontinued and was not reopened.

The town went by several names after Odessa fell away. It was called Huff Valley, because so many Huffs lived in the area. Then, the town began being referred to as Sueville, after a popular early settler.

When the Rock Island Railroad arrived, the conductor apparently said, “This is Newark.”

Another post office was opened in 1893, and the name Odessa had been taken by another post office. So the name Newark was used.

In 1933, Eagle Mountain Lake was formed nearby, and gave Newark the added benefit of having lakefront property, which increased its popularity.

Government The mayor is Mark Wondolowski. The city council includes Mayor Pro Tem Chris Raines, Taylor Burton, Richard Sidebottom, Jennifer Hill and Laura Taylor. The council meets 7 p.m. every third Thursday in the council chambers at city hall, 209 Hudson St. 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 Godfrey Pegues Public Library, 207 Hudson St., is open 10-5 p.m. Saturday and offers a variety of educational services to the community. ~ 817-489-2224 ◆ newarktexaspubliclibrary.weebly.com ~ The Newark Community Center is in the city hall building at 209 Hudson St. ~ Phone: 817-489-2201 ~

88

Welcome to Wise

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

Newark Town Square Park is outside city hall, 209 Hudson St. 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 ~

Education Newark is in the multiple high school Northwest Independent School District. ~ Read more: Page 91 and 105 ~ Administration office ~ 2001 Texan Drive, Justin ◆ 817-215-0000 ◆ nisdtx.org ◆◆◆

www.martinmarietta.com Your Best Source in the Metroplex For Quality Construction Aggregates, Cement and Ready Mix Concrete BRIDGEPORT QUARRY 972-647-7200 • 1795 South Hwy 101 • Bridgeport Texas 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 A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

89

Paradise

Paradise was first settled in the 1870s,. The community was first called Eldorado, but when they tried to establish a post office, the name was already taken. They suggested Paradise Prairie, because of the beautiful wildflowers in the area, later shortened to Paradise. The post office was established in 1876.

The Rock Island Railroad came to town in 1893, as it did in Boyd, Bridgeport and Chico. Paradise moved a mile northeast to take advantage of the railroad.

In 1933, George “Machine Gun Kelly” Barnes and his wife, Kathryn, kidnapped an oil baron, Charles Urshel, and held him at Kathryn’s stepfather’s farm. R.G. “Boss” Shannon lived just outside of Paradise.

Boss Shannon had a habit of allowing outlaws to use his farm as a hideout.

Urshel was able to give such detailed descriptions of the events during his kidnapping that the federal agents quickly identified Shannon’s farm. Shannon, his wife and oldest son were all arrested. Kelly and his wife ran, but were eventually caught in Memphis, Tenn.

Kelly died in prison in 1954. No one from his family claimed his body, so Boss Shannon had the body brought to Wise County and buried in the family plot in Cottondale Cemetery. Boss Shannon served 11 years of a life sentence, was released in 1944 and returned to Paradise, where he was living when he buried his stepson-in-law.

Government Roy Steel serves as mayor. City council members include Robert Owensby (mayor pro tem), Kristi Force, Amanda Black, Sandy Onks and John Ward. The council meets 6 p.m. every fourth Monday at city hall, 218 Main St. Teresa Moody is city secretary. ~ 940-969-2114 ~

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. John Neal is fire chief. ~ 940-389-6752 ~

Parks and Recreation The Paradise Veterans Memorial Park is downtown.

Annual events ~ Paradise Main Street Festival ~

90

Welcome to Wise

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, Shannon Caddell, Landon Smith, Scott Cox, Renea Remmele, Heath Smith and Russell Read. Superintendent is Dr. Paul Uttley.

Administration office ~ 338 School House Rd. ◆ 940-969-2501 ~

Paradise High School ~ 940-969-5010 ~ Paradise Junior High School ~ 940-969-5034 ~ Paradise Intermediate School ~ 940-969-5032 ~ Paradise Elementary School ~ 940-969-5046 ◆ pisd.net ~ ◆◆◆

Rhome

Rhome was established around 1859. It sat at a crossroads between two stagecoach lines, the road from Denton to Jacksboro and the road from Fort Worth to Taylorsville (now Decatur). Today Rhome sits at another crossroads, where Texas 114 meets U.S. 81/287.

It was first known as Prairie Point, and by other names, such as Yellow Dog, Rosanne, Calif and Scuffletown.

In 1882, the Fort Worth and Denver City Railroad passed through the area. The town was moved closer to the railroad, and the name was finally changed to Rhome, after Bryon Crandall Rhome, a prominent citizen who was instrumental in revitalizing the area.

B.C. Rhome was also renowned for bringing the first Hereford cattle to this area.

Government

Mary Jo Ann Wilson is mayor. The city council includes Elaine Priest (mayor pro tem), Sam Eason, Ashley Majors, Michelle Tye and Josh McCabe.

The council meets 6:30 p.m. the second Thursday and fourth Tuesday at the Rhome Community Center, 261 N. School Rd. Cynthia Northrop is the city administrator. Shannon Montgomery 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 Volunteer Fire Department serves the city and surrounding areas. Fire Chief is Darrell Fitch. ~ 817-636-2001, 817-636-2462 or call 911 for emergencies ~ Rhome is home to the longestserving 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 ◆ rhomepubliclibrary.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 ~

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

Annual events ~ Rhome Splash Days ◆ Rhome Fall Festival ◆ Christmas Tree Lighting ~

Education Rhome is part of the 5A Northwest Independent School District. Most students 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 Davis-Simpson, Jennifer Murphy and DeAnne Hatfield. Ryder Warren is superintendent.

Administration office ~ 2001 Texan Drive, Justin ◆ 817-215-6473 ~ 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 ~ ◆◆◆

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Runaway Bay

Runaway Bay was developed as a recreational community on the south side of Lake Bridgeport.

Runaway Bay was established after the lake was formed in 1931, but settlers had arrived in the area before the Civil War. The original home built in 1855 by Col. William H. Hunt is now located in the center of the lake. Runaway Bay was incorporated in the early 1980s.

Government

Herman “Berry” White is the mayor of Runaway Bay. The city council includes Carolyn Moody (mayor pro tem), Laura Blackburn, Steve Holt, Ken Kilpatrick and Christopher Petty. City Administrator is Pamela Woods. The council meets 6 p.m. the third Tuesday at Norma Coble Civic Center, 51 Runaway Bay Dr. ~ 940-575-4745 ◆ runawaybaytexas.com ~

Services Law enforcement is provided by the Runaway Bay Police Department. Steve Reynolds is police chief. ~ 940-575-2200 ~

variety of amenities.

The Runaway Bay Fire Department serves the city and surrounding areas. Fire Chief is Steve Reynolds.

for three trails: Boons, Willow and Coal Creeks. ~ tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/boat/ paddlingtrails/inland/runawaybay_ chupacabra ~

Parks and Recreation

Local Points of Interest

Visiting

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 ~

RB Golf Club and Resort, 400 Half Moon Way, features an 18-hole golf course consistently rated as one of the best in Texas, as well as a driving range and banquet facility.

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. Deborah Lewis is president. ~ grballiance.com ◆ greaterraballiance@ gmail.com ~

Two parks are located in the town.

Cricket Ridge Park on Runaway Bay Drive next to the Norma Coble Civic Center features a playground.

The Park at Runaway Bay on Blue Bird Lane features a walking trail, playground and picnic areas.

The Runaway Bay swimming pool, 938 Port O Call at The Park, is open throughout the summer. ~ 940-626-9046 ~ Chupacabra Point Paddling Trail on Blue Fathom Drive is the launching point

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Welcome to Wise

~ 940-575-2225 ◆ rbgolf.com ~ 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 877-570-2267 (for non-members) ◆ thousandtrails.com/texas/bay-landing-rvcampground ~ 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

~ longhorncouncil.org/camps-properties/ boy-scout-camps/sid-richardson-scoutranch ~

Annual Events

~ 4th Fest ~

Education Runaway Bay is part of the Class 4A Bridgeport Independent School District. ~ Read more: Page 66 and 101 ~ Administrative offices ~ 940-683-5124 ◆ bridgeportisd.net ~ ◆◆◆

Slidell

Local Communities

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 entering Denton County, Slidell is home to the Class 1A Slidell Independent School District.

School board members include Tim Fletcher, Kim Dunlap, Brian Moore, Johnny Zuniga, Trumanell Maples, Steve Pruett 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 ~

Park Springs

Greenwood

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Alvord

Crafton

Slidell

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380

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Balsora 114

Boonsville

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Local Communities (continued) Slidell is just a few miles from a couple of popular Wise County attractions.

The Eagles Canyon Raceway, 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 11 turns, six straights and two sections with elevation change of more than 100 feet. The track is designed for both fast cars and motorcycles. ~ 817-992-9774 ◆ eaglescanyon.com ~ 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 Store, 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

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Welcome to Wise

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

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 schools.

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.

While all of it is gone now, current and former residents of Park Springs meet in the tiny community each year on the Sunday before Labor Day for the Park Springs Homecoming.

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

Students in the Park Springs area attend Alvord or Chico schools.

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

Local Communities (continued) 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 schools.

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 Duane Boone.

The nearby Salt Creek Volunteer Fire Department often provides mutual aid. Ken Vise serves as fire chief.

Boonsville/Balsora 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. Jimmy Goodwin is fire chief. ◆◆◆

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Our schools

Alvord ISD Of the 14 athletic teams fielded by the district in the 2020-2021 school year, 12 qualified for the playoffs.

One of the keys to success is the low student to teacher ratio of 12.2 students per teacher.

The district has an advanced safety and security program that it is continuously working to improve. Parent groups from the elementary PTO to the high school athletic and band booster clubs and the Friends of the FFA are very active and supportive. ◆◆◆

Bowie ISD

Forestburg ISD

Chico ISD

Decatur ISD

Alvord ISD is blessed with great students, a wonderful staff of educators and a supportive community.

The academic and extracurricular programs are very successful. The district has consistently received “A” academic ratings from the Texas Education Agency.

State-recognized programs include band, FFA, ag mechanics and archery. They’ve also been recognized for the forensics and forensics mock trial program within the Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security strand.

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Boyd ISD Decatur ISD

Bridgeport ISD

Paradise ISD

Northwest ISD Springtown ISD

The mission of Boyd ISD is to provide intentional opportunities that empower learners and inspire leaders. It seeks to instill the following values in its students: empowerment, resiliency, ambition, integrity and innovation.

The district is made up of four schools: an elementary, intermediate, middle school and high school.

At the elementary level, student opportunities include STEAM, language, music and interest clubs.

At the secondary level, students

have the opportunity to take art, band, choir, language, CTE and athletics.

The district offers up to 52 hours of college credit, and students can earn seven possible certifications.

Boyd ISD has a 100 percent graduation rate, and the Class of 2021 earned grants and scholarships in the amount of $25,000.

The district’s mission is supported by the Boyd Education Foundation, which awarded $26,919 in the 2020-2021 school year. ◆◆◆

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Bridgeport ISD has a comprehensive Advanced Placement program and

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A state champion in UIL academics, state qualifiers in track and competitors at the state level in robotics, agriculture, Archery and the Texas Association of Future Educators continue to put Bridgeport ISD on the map. ◆◆◆

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Everyone at Chico ISD had new job responsibilities throughout the 2020-21 school year due to COVID-19. The silent heroes who do not get the spotlight often are the ones we most appreciated this school year.

While most of the staff was moving away from potential COVID-19 germs, the custodian staff was walking straight toward them to disinfect areas or deep clean the building after hours in order to keep everyone safe. They came up early, stayed

late and even came up on weekends to help keep the building germ free and help control the spread. The district is very grateful for all their hard work behind the scenes, and they are silent heroes at Chico ISD. Other major changes at Chico ISD include Superintendent, Mr. Randy Brawner.

Brawner moved from the high school campus to lead the district, and Chico is excited to have him leading the way in 2021.

Another change brought about from

Brawner becoming superintendent is it left a vacancy. The district was lucky enough to have Mrs. Breann Cox fill that role and also hit the ground running.

The school board also saw a great need and has hired from within a K-8 counselor, Mr. Maury Martin and 9-12 academic services coordinator and counselor, Mrs. Tina Brawner.

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Decatur ISD

Building excellence is the hallmark of Decatur ISD. A strong emphasis on teaching and learning along with increased expectations in the classroom, on the field, in the gym and in every performance or competition are making that happen in the district.

Operating on a set of core values — commitment to excellence, community, high expectations, opportunities, and relationships — Decatur ISD is making a name for itself in North Texas.

This past year, Decatur ISD added another volleyball state championship, the second in three years and fourth in the past 10 years. Other teams and individuals also reached elite levels of

competition. Between the athletic and University Interscholastic League academic teams and individual participant successes, Decatur ISD finished in the top 20 in the 4A Lone Star Cup, awarded annually by the UIL to the highestperforming high school in each classification.

This fall the district will open its newest campus, the Decatur ISD STEM Academy at Grady (Bud) and Joyce Enis Elementary School. Students in the academy will receive engineering instruction daily in addition to the current elementary curriculum.

The district includes three other elementary schools and two secondary campuses. ◆◆◆

Alvord ISD

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Our Products Hanson Aggregates – 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.

About Bridgeport Quarry In 2016 Hanson 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. Hanson Aggregates 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 1956, a totally new plant was completed in 2006, boosting Hanson’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.

* 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.

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.

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

· 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.

Here are a few examples: • Donated a new Veteran’s Memorial to the people of Chico • TItle Sponsor for WC Challenger Charities BBQ Challenge • 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 • Supporter of 1000 Miles Til Home organization for Wounded Warriors • 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

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Welcome to Wise

CONTACT:

Hanson Aggregates Bridgeport Quarry 1443 S Hwy 101 • Chico, Texas 76431 Aggregate Sales 972-653-3744

Northwest ISD

Northwest ISD is excited to welcome more than 26,000 students to its buildings for the 202122 school year. As one of the fastest growing school districts in Texas, it will continue to welcome new students to the NISD family throughout the year.

Even as enrollment continues to climb, the district is focused on empowering learners and leaders to positively impact the world. NISD values and nurtures a community atmosphere in each of its 31 campuses. The district spans 234 square miles across three counties (Wise, Denton and Tarrant) and more than 14 municipalities. The district will open its 20th elementary school this fall; and also operates six middle schools, three comprehensive high schools, an early college high school and a special programs center.

Exciting things are happening in the three Wise County schools. Prairie Vie w and Seven Hills elementary schools utilize the Leader in Me program to teach leadership to every student, creating a culture of student empowerment and aligning systems to drive results in academics. Last spring, voters approved a replacement school for Seven Hills Elementary as part of the 2021 bond, which is expected to open in two years.

As with the other middle schools, Chisholm Trail Middle School offers exciting activities to its students.

In addition to academics and athletics, for example, students can join the districtwide middle school musical or take part in orchestra – a

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SAGINAW ISD

rarity at the middle school level. After-school clubs will also return this year, with students available to join several different offerings.

NISD students can choose from seven academies and 16 additional programs of study as they enter high school. Northwest High School, the zoned school for most of Wise County, is home to the awardwinning Creative Media Production Academy as well as the Academy of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Steele Early College High School offers students the opportunity to earn their associate degrees alongside their high school diplomas at no charge. NHS also has a robust athletic program, with Texans athletic teams competing in 5A UIL state meets in powerlifting, wrestling, swimming and diving, track and field and golf last year. ◆◆◆

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

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Paradise ISD Paradise Elementary is a Pre-K through third grade campus rooted in family values and committed to student success. This year its UIL teams competed in Valley View. The secondgrade team won its division, and the third-grade team placed second. Collectively, the second-fifth graders came home as district champions.

Paradise Intermediate is a fourth- and fifth- grade campus. This year the UIL fourth-grade team placed first and the fifth-grade team placed second at the district competition. They were overall district champions along with Paradise Elementary.

Paradise Junior High

(sixth-eighth grade) had a great 2020-21 school year. The PJH CrossCountry team placed first in the district. PJH students competed the FFA LDE competition and had a team qualify for the area competition. PJH placed second overall in the district UIL Academic meet. PJH students also competed in UIL one act play and had students named to all-star cast.

Paradise High school had several programs advance past district competition this year. It had state competitors in UIL academics including a state champion in journalism, agricultural teams, cross country and track.

Decatur ISD

Bridgeport ISD

Boyd ISD Springtown ISD The district is very pleased with the overall state assessment results this year.

Students and staff worked extremely hard during a difficult year. ◆◆◆

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106

Welcome to Wise

Slidell ISD Slidell ISD is a fast-growth, innovative PK-12 district serving 365 students.

Over half of the district’s highly-qualified teachers have more than 15 years experience.

Slidell ISD maintains a low student/teacher ratio to ensure every Greyhound receives an individualized, tailored instructional experience.

The school believes in creative arts and is excited to add music education for all grade levels in 2021-22.

Slidell has a no homework policy for grades PK-5 and offers four recesses/ brain breaks every day for elementary students. It proudly offers all five endorsements for high school graduation plans.

Within these endorsement areas, Slidell ISD offers ag mechanics/welding, computer apps, and education in training programs potentially leading

to certifications. The district will also add the PALS program to expand involvement and mentorship of high school students with younger Greyhounds.

Slidell ISD partners with Weatherford College and will have students in the Class of 2022 who will earn a high school diploma and graduate with an associate degree from Weatherford College.

Historically, the school ranks in the top five Class A schools in the state for UIL Academics and One Act Play with about 40 percent of students participating in these events.

The district has had tremendous success in UIL athletic events with athletes advancing to the state level in many sports. The highlight has been the boys basketball team reaching the state finals the last three years and earning two

Forestburg ISD

Decatur ISD state championship titles in girls tennis. Slidell ISD was named the 2021 Class A UIL Academic

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

Era ISD

Krum ISD state champions and ranked in the top 10 iin the Class A Lone Star Cup standings. ◆◆◆

107

Advertorial

Powerhouse firm combines experience, local connections

C

arrillo|Sipes|Tibbels, PLLC continues a longstanding tradition offering clear advice and effective legal solutions for clients not only from Wise County, but from across Texas and the United States who find themselves needing legal representation in North Texas.

Partners J. Michael Carrillo, Mary Lois Spain-Sipes, and Charles R. Tibbels joined forces in 2020 to create a dynamic, wellrounded team.

“There is strength in numbers, and we have a solid team here,” said Spain-Sipes. “With various areas of expertise, different backgrounds and perspectives, our firm is diverse and will not only effectively represent all clients, but also be an empathetic source of support for individuals and their families.”

Although the trio recently partnered, all are Decatur natives and their individual law practices were long established.

Spain-Sipes began her legal career serving the Metroplex as an oil and gas attorney before returning home to join a local firm and then beginning a solo practice in the Woodruff and Wren building.

In January 2019, she became a partner in Woodruff, Wren & Spain-Sipes, LLP. Carrillo began his career with a Decatur law firm before beginning a successful solo career. Tibbels joined him in 2013, forming Carrillo|Tibbels, PLLC. January 2020 brought changes to both firms, and they merged, creating Carrillo|Sipes|Tibbels, PLLC, providing clients with the same outstanding service offered by the firm since it was founded in 1905.

108

Welcome to Wise

“We have a mutual professional respect for each other and play off each other’s strengths,” said Spain-Sipes, “and we feel privileged to continue the legacy of a historic firm known for its powerhouse attorneys and quality representation.”

The firm’s practice areas include: criminal (felony and misdemeanor charges), DWI, all drug possessions; probate law; wills; estate planning; civil litigation; business and corporate law; guardianships; real estate; family law matters; oil and gas; and traffic tickets.

Carrillo primarily practices criminal and civil litigation, as well as family law, while Tibbels focuses largely on business and corporate law, estate planning, real estate, and probate. Spain-Sipes uses her real estate experience to effectively serve clients with probate, guardianship, and real estate needs, as well as estate planning.

She also practices family law.

“A huge benefit is that we’re local,” said Spain-Sipes. “There is no reason why someone with a legal issue in Wise, Jack, or Montague County should hire an attorney from Fort Worth or Dallas.”

Tibbels echoed the sentiment.

“Local counsel is very important when clients are dealing with legal issues because whether you’re in Tarrant, Harris,

or Denton County or any other county in Texas, having someone there who knows the field and the players serves as an advantage,” he said. “Clients certainly have an advantage with respect to an attorney’s knowledge and ability to apply law, and we pride ourselves on our diverse legal knowledge. However, the law is the same across Texas; significant benefit is found by hiring attorneys who have a working knowledge of day-to-day local practices.”

Carrillo|Sipes|Tibbels, PLLC wants to positively impact the community and provide representation for not only local citizens, but also those who find themselves in the local court system.

“All types of people from different walks of life and from varying economic backgrounds need legal help,” said Spain-Sipes, “and when they walk through our door, we want them all to be treated equally and with respect.

“That’s a big deal to us.”

No matter the level of help needed, Carrillo|Sipes|Tibbels, PLLC is eager to consult with you and provide needed support.

To consult with the attorneys or staff, call 940-627-0006 or drop by 100 N. Trinity St. on the Decatur Square. You can also learn more online at cstlawfirm.com.

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Mary Lois Sipes

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100 N. Trinity ✧ P.O. Box 207 ✧ Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-0006 ✧ 940-627-0016 (fax) cstlawfirm.com

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

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Welcome to Wise

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A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

111

Living in Wise

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. ~ 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. ~ 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 ~

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

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 ~

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; Tanya Davis, family and consumer sciences; and Chrissy Karrer, 4-H and youth development. Jacqueline Gonzalez is the program assistant for Better Living for Texans, and Dianne Meadows is the 4-H program assistant. ~ 940-627-3341 ◆ wise.agrilife.org ~

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.

113

Need to Know

(County information continued) Horse Club ~ Meets: 6-6:30 p.m. third Monday at NRS Saddle Shop with ride time 6:30-8 p.m. when permitted. ◆ Contact: Haley Shurden ◆ 940-393-1685 ~

Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun Project ~ Meets: Rifle and pistol 8:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. second and last Sunday of the month at Decatur PD, shotgun meets at 1 p.m. at Parker County sportsman club. ◆ Contact: Kristi Polone ◆ 940-3209230 ◆ Facebook: Wise County 4H Shooting Sports ~

Robotics Project ~ Meets: 5:30 p.m. second Thursday at Extension office ◆ Contact: TBD ~

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 ~

4-H

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

Bridgeport 4-H Club ~ Contact: TBD ~

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 Chrissy Karrer, County Extension agent – 4-H and youth development, at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office in Wise County, 940627-3341. You can also find information on the Facebook Page: facebook.com/ WiseCounty4H.

Alvord 4-H Club ~ Meets: 5 p.m. first Tuesday at 100 North Wickham ◆ Contact: TBD ~

114

Boyd 4-H Club

Welcome to Wise

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. third Monday at various locations ◆ Contact: Tracy Barnett ◆ 940-210-0904 ~

Paradise 4-H Club ~ Meets: 6 p.m. second Tuesday at Paradise Elementary School cafeteria ◆ Contact: Ray Diffee ◆ 682-226-8756 ~

Slidell/Greenwood 4-H Club ~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at Slidell High School library ◆ Contact: Karen Vanover ◆ 940-367-8328 ~

Clothing and Textiles Club ~ Meets: 6 p.m. first Tuesday at Extension office ◆ Contact: Julia Haschke ◆ 817690-4823 ~

Dog Project ~Contact: Janie Vawter ◆ 940-859-6520 ~

Photography Project ~ Meets: 5 p.m. second Tuesday at Extension office ◆ Contact: Velvet Oberg ◆ 940-255-0808 ~

Vet Science Level 1 ~ Meets: 5:30 p.m. second Monday at Extension office ◆ Contact: Sandi 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 ◆ 940-210-2506 ~

Poultry Project ~ Meets: Two annual workshops ◆ Contact: Julia Haschke ◆ 817-690-4823 ~

STEM Project ~ Meets: 4:30 p.m. first Thursday at Extension office ◆ Contact: Dianne Meadows ◆ 940-627-3341 ~

Clover Kids ~ Meets: 6 p.m. second Tuesday at the Women’s Building, Wise County Fairgrounds ◆ Contact: Carrie Read(interim) ◆ 817-228-3360 ~

Need to Know

(County information continued) Longhorn Project ~ Meets: 6 p.m. fourth Monday at Extension office ◆ Contact: Justin Roberson ~

Rabbit Project ~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. third Thursday at Trinity Baptist Church in Boyd ◆ Contact: John Moore ◆ 817-999-9255 ~

County Council ~ Meets: 6 p.m. first Monday at Extension office ◆ Contact: Chrissy Karrer ◆ 940627-3341 ~

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

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115

Need to Know

(County information continued)

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. Non-credit, 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 Wednesday and

116

Welcome to Wise

Friday 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 ◆ Wise Health Foundation Clay Shoot ◆ Taste of Wise County ◆ Patriot Day Program ◆ Reading of Constitution ◆ Chisholm Trail Antique Tractor Club Fall Consignment Auction ◆ Wise County Public Safety Fall Festival ◆ Veterans Day Program ◆ Blue Ribbon Bash ◆ Wise County Toy Run ◆ Wise County Chamber Awards ~ ◆◆◆

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

117

Finding your fit

Resource guide for local community groups

118

Welcome to Wise

Need to Know

(Community groups continued) 4-H and Clover Kids ~ Contact: Chrissy Karrer ◆ 940-627-3341 ~

Area Business Women’s Network ~ Meets: 11:45 a.m. second Thursday, usually, (except July) at the Decatur Conference Center, 2110 W. U.S. 380, Decatur, TX 76234 ◆ Reservations due by 11:45 a.m. Friday prior to the event.

Online payments only. ◆ info@abwn.org ◆ abwn.org ~

Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce

Bridgeport Lions Club

~ Meets: Membership lunch is 11:30 a.m. every third Thursday at Weatherford College Wise County. ◆ Contact: Executive Director Nathan Byers or Account Manager Vanesa Arnold ◆ 940-6832076 ◆ Location: 812-A Halsell St.; P.O. Box 1104, Bridgeport, TX 76426 ◆ bridgeportchamber.org ~

~ 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 June through August, at the Chico Senior Center ◆ Contact: Lynda Childs ◆ 940644-1846 ◆ Address: P.O. Box 533, Chico, TX 76431 ◆ Chico Texas Chamber of Commerce on Facebook ~

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940-626-2800 . 701 WEST BENNETT RD . DECATUR, TX A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

119

Need to Know

(Community groups continued) 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 ◆ 940-644-2339 ~

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 ◆ 940-389-9879 ~

Daughters of the American Revolution, John B. Denton Chapter

GFWC/TFWC Decatur Woman’s Club

~ Meets: 10 a.m. third Saturday August through May in the parlor room of the First Baptist Church in Decatur ◆ Contact: Connie Brawley ◆ 940-393-5971 ◆ jaogle45@gmail.com ~

~ Meets 6:30 p.m. second Tuesday September through May at Patti’s Cantina ◆ Contact: Dee Ann Archer ◆ dejaa201@ gmail.com ◆ 940-735-0361 ~

Decatur Chamber of Commerce

Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 70

~ Meets: 11:30 a.m. fourth Tuesday (except June, July and December) at Decatur Conference Center ◆ Contact: Executive Director Misty Hudson ◆ 940627-3107 ◆ decaturtx.com ~

Decatur Junior Woman’s Club ~ Meets: 7 p.m. second Monday September through May ◆ Contact: Tristyn Smith ◆ tristynismith@gmail.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 rental, 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 ~

120

Welcome to Wise

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at 2801B FM 51 South, Decatur ◆ Contact: Bobby Harris ◆ 940-389-1922 ~

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 ◆ Contact: Deborah Lewis ◆ greaterraballiance@gmail.com ◆ grballiance.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. ~

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 Decatur Luncheons; Monthly coffees networks and mixers throughout the year.

See website for scheduled dates. ◆ Contact: Mende Hanely ◆ info@wisecountychamber. com ◆ wisecountychamber.com ~

Wise County Community Coalition ~ Meets: Noon second Monday at New Salem Free Will Baptist Church in Decatur ◆ Contact: Mike Bell ◆ 940-799-1077 ◆ ChapKipe@hotmail.com ~

Need to Know

(Community groups continued) Wise County Democratic Party

Wise County Republican Party

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Tuesday at Fairfield Inn and Suites in Decatur ◆ Contact: Chair Janet Amos ◆ 940-399-7352 ◆ 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 ◆ 940-393-9620 ◆ wcfrms@ gmail.com ◆ wisecofossilrockandmineralsoc. weebly.com or Wise County Fossil, Rock, and Mineral Society on Facebook ~

Wise County Genealogical Society

~ Contact: Chair Eric Marney ◆ wiserepublicans.com ~

Wise County Retired School Personnel ~ Meets: 11:30 a.m. (lunch), noon (program) fourth Tuesday except May and December at Decatur Conference Center ◆ Contact: Debra Wood ◆ 940-393-9839 ~

Wise County United Way ~ Contact: Martin Woodruff or Kim Lawson ◆ 940-627-3684 ◆ uwwise.ed@embarqmail. com ◆ wisecountyunitedway.org ~

Wise County Veterans Group ~ Meets: 8 a.m. Saturday for breakfast (see website for locations) ◆ qualitybob@ earthlink.net ◆ wisecountyvets.org ~

Wise Health System Auxiliary

~ Meets: TBA ◆ Contact: Patti Gillespie ◆ 940-328-2104 ◆ gensearcherpatti@gmail.com ~

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A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

121

Preserving local history

Resource guide for local historical societies and museums

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 at the Wise County Heritage Museum. It also reviews all applications for state historical markers before they are submitted to the THC. ~ Contact: Kerry Clower ◆ 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. Its main focus is to raise money for the restoration and continued operation of the museum while maintaining and continuing to collect artifacts related to the history of Wise County and Texas in general. ~ Meets: Noon fourth Thursday except August and December ◆ 940-627-5586 ◆ wisemuseum@embarqmail.com ◆ wisehistory.com ~

Wise County Heritage Museum The museum, which housed the Decatur Baptist College prior to 1965, was built in 1892. The Lost Battalion Room serves as a tribute to local soldiers who were captured

by Japanese soldiers as prisoners of war in the Dutch East Indies during World War II. They were held in forced labor camps for three-and-a-half years. Sam Woody’s cabin, one of the first structures built in Wise County, is now located in front of the museum. The museum also offers

122

Welcome to Wise

genealogy services to help people trace their Wise County family history back to the 19th century as well as an extensive collection of artifacts on display for public viewing. The museum’s G.C. Rann Auditorium hosts monthly gospel opry sing-alongs as well as concerts, plays and weddings throughout the year. ~ Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Saturday ◆ 940-627-5586 ◆ wisehistory. com ◆ wisemuseum@embarqmail.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 United Methodist Church in Paradise ◆ Contact: Donna Weeden ◆ 940-859-3691 ◆ paradisemainstreetfestival@gmail.com ◆ paradisehistoricalsociety.org ~

Need to Know

(History continued) 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 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: 1-4 p.m. Monday through Saturday or by request ~

Bridgeport Historical Society Wise County Veterans Memorial Museum 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 Heritage Museum ◆ bridgeporttxhistorical.org ~

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 current 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 ◆ 940-683-1054 ~

Aurora Historic Preservation Commission The Historic Preservation Commission works to promote the history of the city, preserve the historic atmosphere of the district as it developed between 1850 and 1920, restore or reconstruct historic structures and sites within the historic district and encourage an active business climate which promotes the development of a diverse range of businesses compatible with the historic district. ~ Meets: Quarterly ~ ◆◆◆

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123

Serving the public Elected Officials J.D. Clark

CLARK

Resource guide to local elected and appointed officials

Danny Lambert

County Judge

P.O. Box 393 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-5743 940-627-6926 (fax) cojudge@co.wise.tx.us The judge’s office is on the first floor of the county courthouse in Decatur.

Lane Akin

Commissioner Precinct 3

P.O. Box 899 Decatur, TX 76234 940-433-5365 940-433-5511 (fax) comm3@co.wise.tx.us LAMBERT

Gaylord Kennedy

Sheriff

Commissioner Precinct 4

200 Rook Ramsey Dr. Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-5971 940-627-3797 (fax) sheriff@sheriff.co.wise.tx.us AKIN

P.O. Box 899 Decatur, TX 76234 940-683-4153 comm4@co.wise.tx.us KENNEDY

John Biff Hayes

Sherry Lemon

Commissioner Precinct 1

P.O. Box 899 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-5810 940-626-2254 (fax) comm1@co.wise.tx.us HAYES

LEMON

Kevin D. Burns

P.O. Box 899 Decatur, TX 76234 940-427-4881 940-427-2210 (fax) comm2@co.wise.tx.us BURNS

124

Welcome to Wise

P.O. Box 359 200 N. Trinity St. Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-3351 940-627-2697 (fax) countyclerk@co.wise.tx.us

Brenda Rowe

Commissioner Precinct 2

ROWE

County Clerk

District Clerk

P.O. Box 308 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-5535 940-627-0705 (fax) districtclerk@co.wise.tx.us The district clerk’s office is on the first floor of the county courthouse in Decatur.

Need to Know

(Elected Officials continued)

Monte Shaw

Brock Smith

Tax Assessor/Collector

404 W. Walnut Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-3523 (tax office) 940-627-7237 (fax) 940-627-3304 (auto registration) monte.shaw@co.wise.tx.us SHAW

SMITH

Katherine Hudson P.O. Box 554 207 N. Church St. Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-3540 940-627-3573 (fax) treasurer@co.wise.tx.us

District Attorney

STAINTON

Greg Lowery

LOWERY

Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1

MORROW

Stephen Wren

WREN

Thomas Aaberg

P.O. Box 509 205 N. State St. Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-2694 940-627-5417 (fax) jp1@co.wise.tx.us

Kim Redman

Judge, County Court-at-Law No. 2

P.O. Box 250 Bridgeport, TX 76426 940-683-0268 940-683-0269 (fax) ccl2@co.wise.tx.us The courtroom is in the Wise County Annex Building at 1007 13th Street in Bridgeport, unless the court instructs otherwise.

County Courthouse Suite 200 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-5257 940-627-6404 (fax) districtattorney@co.wise.tx.us

Jan Morrow

Judge, County Court-at-Law No. 1 P.O. Box 901 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-5005 940-627-4791 (fax) ccl@co.wise.tx.us The courtroom is on the third floor of the county courthouse in Decatur.

County Courthouse Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-3200 271st Judicial District, covers Wise and Jack Counties. The district courtrooom is on the second floor of the county courthouse in Decatur.

James Stainton

Treasurer

HUDSON

District Judge

Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2 200 Rook Ramsey Dr. Decatur, TX 76234 940-626-4206 940-626-4243 (fax) jp2@co.wise.tx.us

REDMAN

Mandy Hays

County Attorney

Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3

County Courthouse, Suite 300 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-3321 940-627-7194 (fax) countyattorney@co.wise.tx.us

P.O. Box 86 125 FM 730 North Boyd, TX 76023 940-433-2969 940-433-3062 (fax) jp3office@co.wise.tx.us HAYS

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

125

Need to Know

(Elected Officials continued)

Willie Garrett

Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4 1007 13th St. Bridgeport, TX 76426 940-683-4244 940-683-3747 (fax) jp4court@co.wise.tx.us

GARRETT

Rex Hoskins

Constable, Precinct 1

2901 FM 51 South, Suite 200 Decatur, TX 76234 940-273-7288 940-627-0120 (fax) constable1@co.wise.tx.us HOSKINS

Larry Short

Constable, Precinct 2

State and U.S. Representatives Texas House District 61 Phil King, 817-596-4796 Texas Senate District 30 Drew Springer, 512-463-0130 U.S. Representative, Texas District 12 Kay Granger, 817-338-0909 U.S. Representative, Texas District 13 Ronny Jackson, 940-285-8000

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Charles Applewhite

Constable, Precinct 3

APPLEWHITE

P.O. Box 86 125 FM 730 North Boyd, TX 76023 940-433-5513 940-433-3062 (fax) constable3@co.wise.tx.us

Kevin Huffman

Constable, Precinct 4

1007 13th St. Bridgeport, TX 76426 940-683-3750 constable4@co.wise.tx.us

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126

Welcome to Wise

(Second floor next to Wise Health System)

Appointed Officials Wacy Beck

911 Addressing

2901 S. FM 51, Bldg. 100 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-9332 940-627-6171 (fax) 911addressing@co.wise.tx.us

Diana Allen

Asset Management

400 W. Walnut Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-3312 asset@co.wise.tx.us

Ann McCuiston

County Auditor

Clint Summers

EMS Administrator

1101 W. Rose Ave. P.O. Box 1509 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-2002 940-627-7521 (fax) rpreuninger@ems.co.wise.tx.us

Fire Marshal

206 S. State St., Ste. B Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-5870 940-627-3017 (fax) firemarshal@co.wise.tx.us

Joey Highfill

2901 S. FM 51, Bldg. 200 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-9332 940-627-6171 (fax) engineer@co.wise.tx.us

Sabra Srader

Elections Administrator

P.O. Box 1597 200 S. Trinity Decatur, TX 76234 940-626-4453/627-3656

Steven Melton

Director of Information Technology

Emergency Management Coordinator

206 S. State St., Ste. B Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-5870 940-627-3017 (fax) cody.powell@co.wise.tx.us

101 N. Trinity, Ste. B 100 Decatur, TX 76234 940-626-2055 sysadmin@co.wise.tx.us

Blake Walls

Veterans Service Officer

205 N. State St. Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-2470 940-627-3828 (fax) wisevets@co.wise.tx.us

Beverly Kalisek

Indigent Health Care

Cathy Sides

1101 W. Rose Ave. Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-4203 940-627-7521 (fax) ihc@co.wise.tx.us

Victory in Christ Lutheran Church Pastor Philip Schielke

Sunday Services:

Service: 10 a.m.

Sunday School: 11 a.m. for all ages Fellowship Lunch: Noon 508 Main St., Newark • www.viclutheranchurch.org

Public Works

2901 S. FM 51, Bldg. 100 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-9332 940-627-6171 (fax) publicworks@co.wise.tx.us

Cody Powell

County Engineer

IT Coordinator

101 N. Trinity, Ste. B 100 Decatur, TX 76234 940-626-2055 dir@co.wise.tx.us

Randall Preuninger

Jeff Doughty

P.O. Box 899 207 N. Church St. Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-5744 940-627-3388 (fax) auditor@co.wise.tx.us

Chad Davis

940-626-4283 (fax) elections@co.wise.tx.us

Wise County Animal Shelter

119 PR 4195 Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-7577 cathy.sides@co.wise.tx.us

Farmhouse, Cottage, Classic Home Decor, Florals and Gifts

The

Market Collection 940-627-8885

1816 S. FM 51, Suite 2200 Holly Center in Decatur Tues - Fri 10:30 am - 5:30 pm Sat - 10:30 am - 2:30 pm

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

127

Helping our neighbors

Resource guide for local health or social service assistance or support

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 ◆ 940-389-4991 ◆ acts4others.org ~

Al-Anon A mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking. ~ Meets: Monday and Wednesday 6:307:30 p.m. at 602 N. Business U.S. 81/287, Decatur, TX 76234 ◆ Contact: Frances Stack ◆ 940-594-5087 ~

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

128

Welcome to Wise

602 N. Business U.S. 81/287, Decatur, TX 76234 ◆ Contact: Larry Gober ◆ 940-627-3800, 940-393-8669 ~

~ Contact: Melvin Castleberry ◆ 940-2104908 or regional office, 214-678-4800 ~

Helping people who help someone with Alzheimer’s. ~ Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday ◆ Contact: Richard Sides ◆ 940-255-0244 ~

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

Area Agency on Aging Nursing Wise Alzheimer’s (Support Group) Home Ombudsman Program

American Cancer Society Education, support groups ~ 1200 Summit Ave., Suite 320, Fort Worth, TX 76102 ◆ cancer.org ◆ 817737-9990 or 24-hour 800-227-2345 ~

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

~ Contact: Tina Rider, Managing Local Ombudsman — Decatur Medical Lodge/ Nursing Home; Heritage Place of Decatur/ Nursing Home; The Hills Nursing & Rehabilitation/Nursing Home ◆ 817-695-9196 ~ ~ Contact: Becka Carr, Regional Ombudsman — Bridgeport Medical Lodge/ Nursing Home; Governor’s Ridge/Assisted Living Facility; Residence at Senior Care/ Assisted Living Facility ◆ 817-695-9151 ~

Need to Know

(Health Resources continued)

Made 2 Thrive

CASA of Wise and Jack Counties

Provides opportunities for individuals and families with special needs.

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.

~ P.O. Box 601, Bridgeport, TX 76426 ◆ 940-577-0570 ◆ made2thrive.org ~

Mary’s Gift Program

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

Provides free diagnostic and screening mammograms to low-income, uninsured women in Wise County.

Child Study Center

~ Wise Health System West Campus, 2000 S. FM 51, Decatur, TX 76234 ◆ WiseHealthFoundation.com/marysgift ◆ 940-626-1329 ~

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

Meals on Wheels, Wise County (WCCA)

~ 1300 West Lancaster, Fort Worth, TX 76102 ◆ cscfw.org ◆ 682-303-9261 ~

Communities in Schools of North Texas Provides drop-out prevention and stay-inschool services to at-risk and economically disadvantaged students in schools in Denton and Wise counties. ~ 217 South Stemmons Fwy, Suite 101, Lewisville, TX 75067 ◆ 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: Nallely Arevalo ◆ 682-312-6514 ~ Decatur (Mulberry) Head Start ~ Contact: Jackie Ackerman ◆ 940-312-6515 ~ Center Supervisor (for Mulberry and Bridgeport) ~ Contact: Lauren Chester ◆ 682-312-6512 ~ Decatur Early Head Start ~ Contact: Analuisa Macias ◆ 940-641-3533 ~ Boyd Head Start ~Contact: Katie Lynch ◆ 940-400-0150 ~

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 ~

ECI Provides Early Childhood Intervention (E.C.I.) services to children birth to 3 years of age who are experiencing developmental delays or disabilities. ~ Contact: Maxine Maxfield, Wise County program director ◆ 844-NTX-KIDS ◆ mhmrtarrant.org/Services-EarlyChildhood-Services ~

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 ~

Logos Counseling Offers counseling with fees on a sliding scale. ~ 2201 South FM 51, Decatur, TX 76234 ◆ logoscounseling.com ◆ 817-812-2880 ~

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

Operates Meals on Wheels program providing home delivered meals and transportation services to homebound seniors 60-plus. Organized Wise Lunches for Seniors (OWLS) is held on Tuesdays at First United Methodist Church in Decatur and on Thursdays at Ascension and St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Bridgeport. WCCA clients receive free transportation with TAPS. ~ 300 N. Trinity, Suite A, Decatur, TX 76234 ◆ 940-627-5329 ◆ wisemeals.org ~

Metroport Meals on Wheels Delivers meals to residents of Aurora, Boyd, Justin, Newark and Rhome. ~ metroportmow.org ◆ 817-491-1141 ~

Moncrief Cancer Institute Provides fully funded mobile mammography for the uninsured in Wise County and the surrounding area. ~ moncrief.com ◆ 800-405-7739 ~

Parkinson Support Group of Wise County Parkinson’s Disease support group for patients who have Parkinson’s, their caregivers, family members and friends in Wise County and surrounding counties. ~ Meets: First Tuesday each month at 6 p.m. ◆ Location: Wise Health System, Decatur East Campus (old Fit-N-Wise) ◆ Contact: Pamela Hudson ◆ 940-389-0642 ~

129

Need to Know

(Health Resources continued)

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 ◆ raquelswings.com ◆ 940-3999504 ◆ raquelswings@yahoo.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, P.O. Box 217, Boyd, TX 76023 ◆ 940-433-5281 ~

Southeast Wise County Community Services Provides food pantry and limited emergency assistance to Rhome and Newark area residents in need. ~ P.O. Box 148, Newark, TX 76071 ◆ 817-439-3973 ~

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 ◆ 940-665-2011 ~

Stroke Overcomers Support Group ~ Meets: 6 p.m. third Wednesday at Wise Health System, 1000 Medical Center Drive in Decatur ◆ Contact: Casey Rauschuber/ Amber Everett ◆ 940-626-2457 ~

130

Welcome to Wise

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 ◆ 1-877GO KOMEN ◆ info@komen.org ~

TAPS A demand-response transportation system providing rides to local citizens and free transportation for WCCA clients. ~ 3400 Texoma Pkwy., Sherman, TX 75090 ◆ tapsbus.com ◆ 844-603-6048 ~

Tarrant Area Food Bank Mobile Pantry Working with local agencies, the food bank delivers food for distribution to area residents in need once a month to three locations in Wise County.

First United Methodist Church in Decatur ~ 104 S. Miller St., Decatur ◆ 8-9 a.m. first Saturday ◆ Contact: Ricky Harrison ◆ 940-627-3362 ~ First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport ~ 608 17th St., Bridgeport ◆ 9-11:30 a.m. (or until food runs out) second Thursday ◆ 940-683-2780 ~ U-Turn World Ministries in Chico ~ 306 N. Texas 101, Chico ◆ 3-6 p.m. fourth Thursday ◆ Contact: Clover Alexander ◆ 940-644-5555 ~

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) ◆ 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 ◆ 817926-9219 ~

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 ~

VA/Decatur Community-Based Outpatient Clinic Serves veterans living in Wise, Jack, Clay, Archer, Baylor, Young, Montague and Throckmorton counties ~ 1713 S. FM 51, Decatur, TX 76234 ◆ 940-627-7001 ◆ northtexas.va.gov ~

Need to Know

(Health Resources continued)

Wise Choices Pregnancy Resource Center Provides pregnancy tests; STD and abstinence education; abortion alternative counseling; abortion education; parenting classes; material goods including diapers, clothing, formula, baby food, infant furniture, car seats, etc.; contraceptive education; peer counseling; referrals and spiritual counseling. ~ 604 N. Trinity, Decatur, TX 76234 ◆ mywisechoices.com ◆ 940-627-6924 ~

Wise Coalition for Healthy Children Provides free Wise Parent Café: small, intimate settings where parents and caregivers discuss their families and parenting challenges, share ideas and learn proven parenting techniques. The coalition meets at noon the first Thursday every other month at First United Methodist Church of Decatur, 104 S. Miller, Decatur, TX. Marsha Waters with Cook Children’s Health Care System is regional coordinator. ~ 682-885-3069 ◆ centerforchildrenshealth.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 Health Center Community Health Clinic Provides a medical home in Wise County for uninsured and underinsured. Provides basic access to health care on a reduced fee/sliding scale basis. ~ 2000 S. FM 51, Suite D, Decatur, TX 76234 ◆ 940-626-3888 ~

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; Spanish hotline 940-393-2884 ~

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 ~ ◆◆◆

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T H E 21_PTX18_WISECO_MAG_AD.indd 1 132 Welcome to Wise

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B E

MEMBER FDIC

6/11/21 4:26 PM

Welcome to The Well The Well is a boutique wellness Studio in Decatur TX providing a range of services to support your well being

—Live Well Be Well!—

Membership Options:

Amber Perkins

Connie Lamirand

Emma Caraway

Clairece Rosati

Julie Perkins

OUR TEAM

Yoga - Pilates - Barre - Strength & Balance - Kickboxing - Boot Camp - InfraRed Sauna - infrared soqi bed nutrition & Lifestyle Coaching - Manduka yoga props & gear - Pangea organics beauty & wellness products

The Wellcome Package • The Well Package • Get Moving Package • Sweat It Out Package • Lifestyle & Nutrition Coaching

105 E Main St. • Decatur, TX, 76234 � 940-539-3000 • thewelldecatur.com

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

133

Wise County Heritage Museum

Who Should You Trust With Your OB/GYN Care?

Decatur Women’s Health Center

Offering a Full Range of Obstetrical and Gynecological Care for Women at Every Stage of Life.

Archive ~ Museum ~ Little Theater Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Admission: $2 - Adults, $1 - Children 5 - 12 • Under 5 Free Call for Auditorium Rental 1602 S. Trinity, Decatur • 940-627-5586 www.wisehistory.com

wisemuseum@embarqmail.com

Deca Back Row: Melissa Bradley, Kim Mote, Christina Cantu; Front Row: Dr. Douglas Kyle

Your health and well-being as a woman are our concern. We offer a full range of obstetrical and gynecological care. Our emphasis is on making you feel comfortable, confident and reassured.

Call today to schedule your next appointment

940-627-4216

1713 S. FM 51, Suite 201 • Decatur, TX 76234

Episcopal Church Of The Resurrection

SUNDAY WORSHIP 10 AM

LIVE STREAMING SOON Details at

wisecountychurch.org

The Episcopal Church Welcomes You! 134

Welcome to Wise

905 S. Church Street Mailing address: P. O. Box 22 Decatur, TX 76234

(940) 222-8705

We’re HERE for You! Shop 24/7 online at karlklementforddecatur.com

K arl

KLEMENT US Hwy. 287 South, Decatur, Texas 940-627-1101

Sales • Service • Parts

Nestled on 15 acres of rolling Wise County prairie, Karl Klement Ford offers you the best automotive experience available. Our customers consistently rely on our dedicated sales and service staff to satisfy their travel needs and you can too. From America’s best selling F-Series trucks and Ford Ranger to the all new Bronco Sport to the family friendly Explorer and Expedition along with the economical and versatile Escape and Ecosport models the Klement experience is ready and able to satisfy your travel demands. Come see us soon and learn why our customers trust us to satisfy their automotive needs year after year.

Ranger Crew Cab

Bronco Sport

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

Explorer

F-150 Super Crew

135

Index of Advertisers 1st Choice Truck Lube ........................78 Adams Furniture .....................................11 All-Rid Pest Control .............................30 Alvord EDC ................................................13 Ary Co A/C & Heat, LLC.................102 Assurance Financial ...........................133 BelWave ....................................................121 Best Value/Renshaw Drug ...............39 Bisidas Water Wells ..............................77 Black Insurance Agency ..................100 BlooMoon Pet Resort......................123 BMG Auto ................................................131 Bond Family Eye Care.........................42 City of Bridgeport Parks & Recreation ........................................43 Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce ........................................97 Bridgeport EDC ......................................02 Clay Patterson, CLU Medicare Specialist .........................................132 Cannon Realty .........................................83 Carrillo/Sipes/Tibbles .......... 108-109 CASA of Wise County .....................116 Catfish O’Harlies .....................................33 Catholic Communities of Wise & Jack Counties .................................59 Carol Ann Carson, P.C.........................48 Century 21 Sue Ann Denton................................................73 Century 21 Angie Kasner & Jane Kasner .....................................87 Century 21 Joey Duncan ................44 Century 21 Sue Meek & Trevor Meek ....................................62 Chalet of Jewelry................................100 Chico Auto Parts ....................................80 Classic Floor ...........................................132 Cook, McDonald & Company CPA .......................................................85 Cut and Grow Lawn Service ...........61 DATCU .......................................................107 Decatur Chamber of Commerce ........................................38 Decatur Children’s Dentistry .........97 Decatur Dental ........................................39 Decatur EDC.............................................48 Decatur Eye Center .............................82 Decatur Garden Center.....................20 Decatur Heat and Air ..........27 & 139 Decatur Livestock Market ................61

136 WelcomeToWise.com 136 Welcome to Wise

Decatur Main Street ............................38 Decatur Main Street Florist ............51 Decatur Medical Lodge ...................119 Decatur Public Library........................85 Decatur Self Storage ...........................86 Decatur Tire Store ................................51 Decatur Square Merchants ................................56-57 Decatur Veterinary Clinic .................18 Decatur Womens’ Health..............134 DFT Self Storage ...................................77 DIY Decatur ...............................................17 Don’s A/C Service, Inc. ....................115 Dos Chiles ...................................................79 Dr. Christian Helm ..............................126 Dr. Cynthia Hemesath .........................15 Dr. Meria Aulds ........................................17 Dr. Mark Goss ...........................................99 Dr. Syed N. Hussain ...........................126 Drake Plumbing....................................103 Easy Rent..................................................121 Edward Jones Investments...........110 Episcopal Church of the Resurrection ................................134 Excellent Dental ...................................123 Family Clinic ...............................................86 Farmhouse Florist ..................................63 Farmers Insurance-Trey Horn .......86 Farmers Insurance-Rebecca Thomas ...............................................96 First Financial Bank ...............................40 First United Methodist Church Bridgeport ........................................86 First United Methodist Church Decatur............................................106 First National Bank Mortgage .......03 First National Bank ...............................45 First State Bank .......................................61 Flusche Auto Repair .............................21 Forever Teeth ...........................................50 Full Armor Fellowship..........................96 Giant Burger .............................................40 Governors Ridge .................................110 Guardian Title ...........................................26 Halsell Street Merchants, Bridgeport ...............................34-35 Hanson Aggregane ............................104 Hawkins Funeral Home ......................39 Help Me Grow .......................................117 Herbs and More ......................................83

Holmes Auto Supply ............................40 Hudson & Torres Family Funeral Home ................................18 Ideal Flooring & Design ......................77 Ideal Skin Med Spa ................................83 iOffice.............................................................26 James Wood Auto Park .....................41 James Wood Motors ...........................16 Jay Patterson Health Insurance & Medicare .........................................132 JRobs Performance Training ..........67 Justin Seed Co. ....................................110 Karl Klement CDJ ..................................66 Karl Klement Ford...............................134 Kemp’s Wrecker Service ...................80 Kenepela’s Kitchen ................................67 Kwik Kar........................................................77 Lambert Construction .....................131 Laura Shaffer, Mary Kay.....................21 Legend Bank-Decatur ........................79 Little Caesars ............................................76 Lowe’s Market ..........................................78 Mann Refrigeration...............................87 Marker Cellars ..........................................85 Martin Marietta .......................................89 Mattress by Appointment .................99 Mary’s Gift ..................................................78 McKenna Orthopedics & Biologics.............................................64 McLaughlin Supply ................................48 McMaster/New Holland .....................96 Midwestern State University ..........95 Modern Woodmen-Stephanie Newbury, FIC ..................................85 Moncrief Cancer Insitute ..................49 New Salem Free Will Baptist Church ...............................50 North Texas Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation..................................59 NRS World .................................................25 Paradise EDC ............................................75 Parker Properties...................................58 Patti’s Hair Parlor ................................101 Pinnacle Bank ........................................132 Premier Cardiology ..............................69 Prime West Mortgage .....................111 Reeves Automotive ..............................62 Rhine Realty ..............................................05 Rosenbaum Dental ...............................41 Runaway Bay Golf Club & Resort ...............................................111

Index of Advertisers S&J Pharmacy..........................................59 Salt Logix .....................................................52 SBC Insurance ..........................................31 Shelly Sessums ........................................24 Silhouette Dance....................................77 Skin & Body Works ...............................48 Skinny’s Repair Shop ...........................42 Solaris Healthcare..................................04 State Farm-Cary Bohn.......................52 State Farm-David Correll ..............103 Superior Lawn & Landscape ...........80 Swim & Smile .........................................111 Tarrant Regional Water District ................................................42 Taylor Septic & Dozer..........................24 Taylor Septic Pumping ......................47 Texas Chic Facial Spa ...........................96 TF Vineyard................................................83 The Community Bank .........................52 The Father’s House ..............................41 The Market Collection .....................127 The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute ...............06-07 The Roof Guy ...........................................87

The Well ....................................................133 Title Resources ........................................50 Tire Outlet ..................................................78 Tire Store ....................................................42 Total Plumbing .........................................52 Trees, Inc ......................................................41 Trinity Fellowship Church .................21 Trinity Realty .............................................40 Trinity Street Roastaurant & Coffee Bar.........................................93 United Propane .......................................62 United Way of Wise .............................47 Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation District ................73 Victory Christian Academy ..............60 Victory Church ........................................84 Victory in Christ Lutheran Church .............................................127 Vincent Wealth Management ..........................08-09 Wallace Plumbing...................................18 Walking Beam ..........................................21 Watergate Irrigation.............................44 Weatherford College...........................46

Wise Ballet Academy...........................82 Wise County Elections.......................68 Wise County Chamber of Commerce .....................................105 Wise County Committee on Aging ....................................................68 Wise County Heritage Museum ..........................................134 Wise County Medical & Surgial Association .......................................19 Wise County Messenger ..................97 Wise County Title...............................137 Wise Electric .............................................41 Wise Family Practice ..................70-71 Wise Health Clinics.................. 65 & 81 Wise Health Foundation ...................78 Wise Health Systems ..........74 & 140 Wise Hearing Solutions .....................47 Wise Marketplace Merchants .....138 Wise Obstetrics & Gynecology, PA .............................51 Young’s Tank..............................................59 Your CBD Store ......................................26

First Here, BEST Here, Still Here

Name: Wise County Title; Width: 49p9.001; Depth: 4.98 in; Color: Black Only; Resolved File Path: ; Ad Number: 406408

While many others have come and gone Wise County Title Company has Stood the Test of Time.

Since 1878 our title plant has provided accurate, reliable information; Yesterday for abstracts and Today for Title Insurance.

Today, with computer-aided search ability and digitized document viewing of all 165 years our county’s property records, Wise County Title Company Provides Speedy Service to go with Our Century-old Record of UNMATCHED stability and reliability.

405 Park West Court, Decatur (Just Off US 380 Business West) 940-627-3581

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

A Publication of the Wise County Messenger, Decatur, Texas

1602 Halsell St, Bridgeport 940-683-3581

137

137

ise W MARKETPLACE K T BRIDGEPORT

BOYD

Celebrations

make special memories for your special day

Beautiful, unique floral arrangements for any occasion.

YOUR FULL-SERVICE FLORIST

940-433-8000

107 E. ROCK ISLAND • BOYD www.celebrationsbyjudy.com

MUNN’S AUTO PARTS 112 S. Hovey St. • Boyd, TX 76023

940-433-2322

Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM • Sat 8AM-4PM

Munn’s Home & Auto Ace Hardware

(940) 277-0500

misstwisterdance.com

BRIDGEPORT

.L .A. .F .A.M. I. L. I. A. P- A- N - -A- D- E - -R -I -A

WE BRING YOUR DREAMS TO LIGHT!

Always Fresh & Delicious Bakery 2202 US 380 . Ste 114 940-683-3819 Mon - Sat 6 am - 8 pm

www.brightideastx.com

2304 Woodrow Wilson Ray Circle Bridgeport 940-683-4325

email:design@brightideastx.com

Tue-Fri: 9 am-5 pm Sat: 10 am-2 pm

www.tandwtire.com

940-683-3558

MON-FRI 7:30AM - 5PM • SAT 7:30 - NOON

1908 Chico Hwy. • Bridgeport, TX 76426

DECATUR

Small Town Feel with Uptown Look

JUST LIKE NEW Consignment Store

940-627-7774

802 W. MAIN ST. DECATUR

Mon - Fri 10 am - 6 pm • Sat 10 am - 4 pm New Accounts By Appointment

NEW FAIRVIEW

RICK - 817.781.8099

FFL TRANSFERS & FIREARMS SALES

101 ILLINOIS STREET • NEW FAIRVIEW, TX 76078

138

Welcome to Wise

Awards • Trophies • Gift Items Elaina Niblett

940-627-4319 • elainaniblett@yahoo.com 455 Country Road | Decatur, TX 76234

MOVIE LINE

940-627-5522 920 W Thompson St. Decatur, TX 76246

www.plazacinema4.com

Local shopping and service done right...

IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD!

Prompt & Trusted Service.

A/C

COMMERCIAL REFRIGERATION

HEAT

ICE MACHINES

GEOTHERMAL

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

INDOOR AIR QUALITY

SALES • SERVICE • INSTALL • LEASING Residential • Commercial

940-627-1616 | 817-847-1579 www.decaturheat-air.com | service@decaturheat-air.com

TACLB28913C TECL 33400

FIGHT TOGETHER Setbacks in health can become opportunities to come back stronger. We are passionate about helping you find your way back to wellness. Through the laughter and through the tears. Through the challenges and through the successes. We are here for you.