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FALL 2021

Walking Miracle Skeeter Ivie shares his inspirational story of faith and recovery A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CLIFTON RECORD & MERIDIAN TRIBUNE

Community Calendar

Making Dreams Come True

Just Donna

Skeeter Ivie - A Walking Miracle

What’s Happening at the BAC

The Lost Marble

WHAT’S INSIDE

4 5 6 8 12 16 18 20 24 30 34

Welcome to Bosque River Run Fall 2021

Editor Ashley Barner Production Melanie Rhyne

Contributing Writers Deb Phinney

Valley Mills Vineyards

Business Directory

Publisher Rita Hamilton

Staff Writer Brook DeZavala

Cameron Farm

Helping the Homeless

Bosque River Run Magazine Fall 2021

Photography Ashley Barner Brook DeZavala Marketing Cal Schlumpf Kim Patrick Business Manager Jennifer Gordon

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Skeeter Ivie opens up about his cancer diagnosis and treatment, and his faith in God that helped him heal. Photo by Ashley Barner

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Welcome to the fall edition of

Bosque River Run Inspiration seems to find me when I least expect it, but somehow it always finds me at a point when I need it the most. Meeting people and listening to their stories, and then being a vessel to share them with the world has become one of my favorite parts of my job. There are so many different people walking so many different walks, and though each story is unique, I find that faith has been the most common thread among them. The world has changed so much over the past year and a half, but the one constant through it all in Bosque County seems to be a steadfast faith in a guiding hand. We are very lucky to be where we are. Being such a small county means we get to know our neighbors. We

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a word from the EDITOR

recognize the people we see at the supermarket and we get to sit next to our friends in restaurants. There is a certain anonymity that comes with living in a big city and that can be lonely, but in Bosque County there is always a friend close by. There is always someone willing to go the extra mile. There is always someone there to help. Be thankful to be where you are. Be thankful to know the people you know and be thankful for the community we have here. My hope is that you enjoy reading these stories that help make Bosque County what it is because we certainly have enjoyed telling them.

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By Brook DeZavala

Experiencing summer camp isn’t something many chronically or terminally ill children ever think would be possible but Camp John Marc has been making that experience happen for these kids for the last 30 years right here in Bosque County. The camp itself is named after John Marc Meyers who suffered from a form of bone cancer in 1987. His favorite thing to do to take his mind off treatments was to go to the family ranch, play with the animals and spot turkey and deer. At that time Esperanza was being built in the Dallas area and John Marc really wanted to go. Sadly, he succumbed to his illness before getting to experience camp, but his parents decided to donate over 100 acres just outside of Meridian to build another camp in their son’s memory. CJM started as a non-profit and has remained as such to this day. The camp is governed by a board of directors which includes John Marc Meyer’s siblings as well as various people in the medical field. The Meyers family has remained very active in CJM throughout the years. About 3,000 campers are chosen through hospital programs and costs are covered by fundraising and donations. The camp was specifically designed and built to accommodate chronically ill and physically challenged campers, and though it took a little time, CJM opened its gates in June of 1991 to its first campers. Campers are accompanied by a specialized medical staff unique to their illnesses or disabilities during their stay. Every detail is strategically planned to allow their campers to be able to experience the outdoors with as much ease as possible. There are no stairs on the property and pathways were built wide so campers could travel side by side on foot or by wheelchair to all the areas. Throughout the Live Oak pathway, names of almost all campers are engraved on the bricks as a reminder that campers make camp more than just a place. The camp is absolutely stunning from the moment you enter the gate. It’s like something you’d seen in a movie and a place you dreamed of going to as a child. One of the first things you see is a beautiful lake and covered dock. The campers have the option to fish for a catfish named Netter. The tale is Netter the catfish is as big as a Volkswagen Beetle and has been stealing campers’ bait as long as camp has been open. The medical building is designed so transfusions, dialysis and other similar treatments can be administered on site. Doctors also get to participate in or lead camp activities. That gives campers the chance to build a unique relationship with their doctors aside from the average doctor-patient relationship. Weather in Texas can be challenging but CJM has made every effort to make sure camp doesn’t get cancelled. There have been times a drought made the lake unusable or it rained for the duration of a scheduled camp, but the camp was able to go on. The Silo, which is an 11,000 sq/ft building, has rooms for cooking classes, a dark room for photograph development, a library, a costume closet and indoor wall climbing, and also serves as an emergency shelter if need be. The barn-style covered building is large enough for a basketball court complete with sitting areas. Camp Director Megan White really put the importance of CJM in perspective when she said these children may have only one chance to experience camp. Their disease may not allow for a second chance. Full time staff and hundreds of volunteers are dedicated to making once in a lifetime memories. CJM has extended activities to include family camps for the child and immediate family. Often families need an escape, and CJM allows for families to forget about the diagnosis and just be together. “It’s important families and campers feel like they are home rather than in a rented BOSQUE RIVER RUN FALL 2021

space,” Megan said. Across America families often refer to their kitchen as the heart of the home. CJM uses their dining hall as the heart of camp in their “open arms” design. One side of the dining hall opens its arms to outdoor activities while the other opens to the cabins, campfires and hammocks. Food is prepared and brought to the table rather than standing in lines. Megan says it’s quite a site to have a hundred campers interacting together rather than on computers or laptops. CJM staff and volunteers are designated to a specific camp or campers. That allows for staff to become a part of camper’s space rather than them feeling like a stranger. Young campers are given an itinerary, but teen campers are given a choice of activities. Archery, zip-lining, horseback riding, fishing, canoeing, swimming and star gazing are just some of the outdoor activities available. Megan said it’s not unheard of for someone to not know how to swim, but the pool was built with a beach style entrance to allow for easy access, a first-time swim, or for lessons. That’s just one of many unique qualities of this camp. “The campers are never without options,” Megan said. “There is never a time when campers have nothing to do unless that’s what they want or need.” Everywhere a hand painted mural was seen there were hidden objects within it. Some murals had silly items and some were about the history of the camp. Cabins were dedicated in honor of American Native Indian Tribes. CJM has incorporated education into camp songs, food, and campfire stories. Staff can be seen on CJM’s website singing silly songs or making crafts. Their love and dedication radiate through each video. Activities are planned so that when a camper leaves, a piece of them will always remain. The arts and crafts building houses projects from previous camps and a framed piece of glass with the camp’s flag and tiny camper fingerprints was an overwhelming visualization of all the chronically ill children who may never see a cure. Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine,” and is one of the mottos of CJM. Even if only for a few days, the lives this camp changes every year is as admirable as much as it is unique. BOSQUECOUNTYTODAY.COM

Donna Easley of “Just Donna” is right at home in her salon on West 5th Street in Clifton.

The name “Just Donna” is a reflection of how she likes to work, allowing her to give her undivided attention to her clients.

Upon entering Donna Easley’s hair salon, located at 314 W. 5th Street in Clifton, one immediately notices the warmness of the shabby chic/ farmhouse decor, which in Donna’s eye, signals a warm and comfortable environment for her customers. Donna loves that her shop is located in downtown Clifton. This is her fifth salon – the third to be located downtown, and the second shop to be on West 5th Street. All of her salons have had different personalities and each has reflected a little of what was going on in her life at the time. In addition to being a licensed stylist, Donna is an interior designer, which has been apparent in each of the salons that she has owned. “This salon is an extension of my apartment and goes hand-in-hand with my personality,” Donna said. The name “Just Donna” is simply a reflection of how she likes to operate – just her and each client receiving her full attention. That one-on-one aspect is important as it allows all of her attention to focus on that one particular client. Working solo also allows her to provide a calm and casual environment for her customers. She loves the space that her current location provides. She is able to display her antiques, such as her collection of blow dryers, curling irons and an early era stand up hair dryer. Most of what is on display has been gifted to her over the years. She has been doing hair since 1984 and this collection demonstrates her love of the history of her craft. She loves to reflect on how far the industry has come since she first started. The days are gone of weekly roller sets and sitting under the dryer for 30 minutes. She laughs as she recalls talking to a product salesman regarding the fact that they don’t even sell those rollers anymore. Today, everything is blow dry-

“

BOSQUE RIVER RUN FALL 2021

ers and curling irons. Donna’s family moved to Clifton when she was a sophomore in high school when her dad took a job at the local limestone plant. For Donna, Clifton is home. Although she has moved from Clifton quite a few times as an adult, she always winds up coming back. “People know you and you know them. You know if somebody needs help and what is going on in the community,” Donna said. For Donna, being in Clifton just feels comfortable. She recognizes that she could probably make more money working in a larger city, but she loves knowing her clients, seeing them in the grocery store or at a football game. “It’s a community feeling and I like that,” she added. Looking back at her time growing up, she shares that when she was 11 or 12 years old, wearing your hair bleached blond was the rave. Women actually used bleach that turned their hair white. Her mom couldn’t afford to go every three or four weeks to have her hair touched up so she taught Donna to do the bleaching process. So it was from an early age that Donna aspired to work in the hair industry. Helping her mom with homework when she herself attended beauty school only affirmed that this was what she would one day do. Donna attended cosmetology school at MCC in Waco and then about 10 years ago she went to Hill College in Hillsboro to get her instructor’s license. She believes her desire to teach was and is an extension of the job she loves, and she integrates that teaching aspect with her clients. No surprise, Donna is also a substitute teacher at the high school, which also gives her the opportunity to share her love of teaching. It allows her to stay connected to the young people in the community. In a perfect world, there would be a cosmetology course at the

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By Rita Hamilton

high school where she could maintain her salon and utilize her teaching skills. One of the processes that stands out in Donna’s memory from cosmetology school is doing perms. She loved it then and she loves it now. She was fast and repeatedly won contests for rolling perms quickly and without error. The prize for winning was an extra break, which at that time meant an extra cigarette during a time when everyone smoked. Because she won so often they ceased the perm contests and moved on to finger waves. She admits that was not something she was good at and she still doesn’t like doing them today, although no one is asking for that process today in Clifton, Texas. Doing hair definitely has that “instant gratification” aspect that she finds exhilarating. From cuts, to colors to different styling methods, Donna thinks what she does helps her clients to feel good about themselves. This need to change things also filters into her interior design work. “You can paint, you can rearrange furniture – the possibilities are endless when it comes to changing things up or making things better,” Donna said. She finds that doing hair and designing a room are similar when it comes to the creative process. “It’s seeing the potential and then making it happen.” Continuing education is a requirement for Donna to maintain her license but the internet also helps her keep up with the changing styles and processes in hair. One new trend that Donna doesn’t enjoy doing is what she classifies as the “far out” colors that have surfaced in the last few years. “I’m not comfortable doing that, but I will be glad to refer them to a stylist in town who is,” she said. When it comes to taking on new trends, Donna wants to not only understand the process from start to finish but be comfortable

with it. Having faith in her talents to accomplish a certain look or process is essential. Her clients are not experiments. One of Donna’s favorite things to do is create highlights and lowlights. She loves the way hair feels and how it moves and color is one of those things that definitely shows that off. Donna’s clients are aware of how long she has been in the business and they recognize her passion for it. Therefore, she believes they value her opinion when it comes to their hair. “Most people listen to their stylist on what they should do with their hair and that honesty is one of the things that keeps people coming back,” she said. There are times that, although Donna may recognize that a specific hairstyle or cut is beautiful, it may not be the right style for her customer. It could be something as simple as their hair is not the right texture, being too thick or too thin, or too curly. After explaining the why nots, she does take the time to explain how they might be able to get close to the look they are wanting. Donna doesn’t believe she is a salesman and her retail is a very small part of her business. Yet, she is comfortable selling a client a haircut because she knows her business well enough to be able to offer advice on what would look best on a client. “I love the creative side of my business and that is making people feel better about themselves,” she said. Donna knows all the hairstylists in town and loves that they are all friends. “When I was going to come out of retirement, I called a couple of stylists in town and told them of my plans. I said I haven’t had a salon in awhile, talk to me,” she said. No one hesitated to help or offer advice. “Here in Clifton, we are all good at what we do. People choose a hair stylist obviously because of talent, but it is also that people click with the personality of their stylist.”

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Representation of the five salons Donna has either owned or co-owned in Clifton. BOSQUECOUNTYTODAY.COM

The other salons in town are amazing and Donna doesn’t hesitate to refer people to them if something is out of her wheelhouse. Everyone has their own little niche and she has great respect for them and the work that they do. Donna believes there is enough business in Clifton to keep everyone working. The camaraderie between her fellow stylists is not something easily found in large towns and cities. It is something she has come to love about working here. Betty Odom of Chat n’ Curl was a hairstylist here in Clifton for about 50 years and it is she who Donna considers to have been her mentor. In between Donna’s clients, she would go back to Betty’s station and just observe her work. And although what she did is now considered old school, Donna believed her to be a magician when it came to doing hair. “Hair stylists are artists and our clients are our canvas. We get to create art 10 times a day and all of us in town are that way,” she said. At “Just Donna” it is just Donna. If a client comes in and they are having a bad day, it’s okay if they don’t want to talk. Likewise, if they are having a great day and are excited about that, they also have the ability to express themselves. That privacy is one of the things that makes her shop unique and that goes hand-in-hand with her ability to give individual, personalized attention to all who choose to use her services. Donna speaks candidly about the effect of COVID-19 on hair salons. She can empathize with those who had to close down due to the pandemic, simply because if a stylist doesn’t work they don’t get paid and that means you can’t pay your bills. She opened “Just Donna” back in February and admits it was a slow start. That contact with people is very im important and she doesn’t want to see it go back to shutdowns again. Donna is glad to be back in business and has taken her time getting back in the swing of things after what she thought was early retirement. She had to relearn how to do certain things utilizing a stool due to some physical lim limitations. But again, the support of her fellow stylists in the community helped her overcome her challenges and keep her on top of her game. Her business has slowly increased and that is how she envisioned her return to the work workforce. Word of mouth has provided the perfect pace for Donna to rebuild her business and she is quite content with where it is right now. When asked where Donna saw herself in three years she was quick to respond that she will probably still be doing hair, still doing interior design, still subbing at the high school but maybe adding repurposing old furniture to the mix, inclusive of reupholstering. Again, another thing that allows her to reimagine, recreate and make something better, a theme that runs through all of her endeavors. She BOSQUE RIVER RUN FALL 2021

has also done work as a hospice volunteer but that has all but stopped due to COVID. Donna misses doing that work and the ability to just love on people. Time has a way of changing the way we look at things. Donna reminisces back when she was raising her daughter and the time she spent in her shop. Her daughter could do a lot of things but one thing that was taboo was messing with her chair. Move ahead one generation and Donna’s granddaughter has full access to her shop, including her workstation chair. Donna attributes this to just being a lot more relaxed than she was in previous years. It can be said patience comes with age but grandchildren definitely have one looking at

things differently. Paying back what you’ve been given is important to Donna. Mentoring a young stylist would be like a dream come true given her love of teaching. When asked what the most essential skills needed in a hair salon were, Donna was quick to point out that being a people person is first and foremost. “You’ve got to talk to people to understand what clients are saying and more importantly what they want,” she said. Being a good communicator is key as you want to make sure you understand exactly what a customer is looking for and asking good questions is a part of that. In addition, possessing great customer service skills is essential, which too often is severely lacking in today’s environment. People are capable of providing good customer experience, they just aren’t taught it. And obviously, there is the importance of talent, which includes having the passion to create. Upon reflecting on her own skills, Donna believes her strongest asset is her hair cutting ability but being able to talk with people and provide a positive experience are just as important as giving a good cut. While Donna looks forward to what the future holds, she looks back fondly on her career as a hairstylist. There are things she wishes could be made easier within the industry, such as health insurance and things with regard to benefits. Yet, she has no regrets. Cosmetology has been good to her and she not only values what it has brought into her life but adds that the love she has infused into her craft has reaped her innumerable benefits. Her work speaks for who she is and that brings her joy and self-satisfaction. Her blessing is that she gets to do what she loves all the time with no end in sight. When she makes her clients happy then she is happy. What more can one ask for? “In a world of crazy, if cutting or styling someone’s hair gives them a little bit of happy, then I call that a good day,” Donna shared in closing.

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PROOF OF MIRACLES

Community Stands Strong for By Ashley Barner

If you’ve been to Royal Pizza in Clifton over the past year, the chances of you hearing Sheldon “Skeeter” Ivie’s story are pretty high. Skeeter doesn’t mind sharing his journey through cancer with anyone who asks, and he credits his recovery not only to the doctors and advances in can strong community he has behind him and his trust that God has him right where He wants him. Around this time last year, Skeeter started having problems eating and after speaking with his local physician, Dr. Justin Squyres, it was believed to be “Thanksgiving last year was the last real meal I was able to eat. After that, every time I would try to eat something, I’d have to throw it back up,” Skeete Skeeter went back to Dr. Squyres but because his surgery would be elective, it was difficult to get scheduled with strict COVID-19 protocols in place. D told him to enjoy the weight loss in the meantime. By the end of the year Skeeter had lost about 60 pounds. He was in the process of getting new medical insurance, and his new insurance company told if he could get his weight between 290 and 300 pounds, his rate would drop $150 a month. Skeeter decided to wait to switch his insurance until he lost more weight and by the end of March of this year, he had met his goal. When his new insurance kicked in on April 1, he called Dr. Squyres to set up his appointment. By that time a lot of the COVID restrictions had been lifted and they were able to schedule Skeeter for surgery. “On April 8 I took a swallow test because they wanted to see what they were going to need on the day of the surgery, then on the 13th of April I went in for my surgery,” Skeeter said. Skeeter said he went in thinking it would be a normal, routine surgery. But when he woke up in the recovery room, he was surrounded by the doctor and about five nurses. “I looked up and asked if we were all good now, and the doctor looked at me and said, ‘No, we’ve got some bad news,’” Skeeter said. The nurses were gathered around Skeeter and Dr. Carter Smith sat down and told Skeeter he had esophageal cancer. Skeeter said he was in disbelief. There isn’t a history of cancer in his family. In fact, though most deaths in his family were related to heart issues, Skeeter said he is the only one who doesn’t have any heart issues. “I looked at the doctor and said it was going to be okay,” Skeeter said. “Some of the nurses had started to cry and I said it would be okay, we’re going to get through this.” Skeeter said Dr. Smith knew it was more than likely going to be cancer before he even went in because of the swallow test, but he wanted to go in to be sure. Skeeter had CT scans done to be sure the cancer wasn’t anywhere else. “It was in one location, but it was a very, very, very massive tumor,” Skeeter said. He said that although doctors don’t really use numbers to define stages of cancer anymore, the doctor said because it’s a common thing people understand, he would diagnose his cancer as stage III, but a possible stage IV. Because the tumor was so massive, the doctor could not get the scope past it to see the other side. “The hole in my esophagus was smaller than a BIC pen. It’s supposed to be the size of a silver dollar,” Skeeter said. Skeeter said the doctors didn’t even wait for the biopsy to come back before pushing him through the system and getting him in to see Dr. Scott Reznick at UT Southwest in Dallas. When he went in for his appointment on April 23, Dr. Reznick wanted to do another scope so he could get his own pictures and videos. The ultrasound equipment wasn’t able to get past the tumor to see the other side, but a smaller camera, as well as a CT scan showed it had grown into Skeeter’s stomach. At this point in time the doctors said they wanted to put Skeeter on a

BOSQUE RIVER RUN FALL 2021

or Skeeter

n cancer treatment, but to the

to be a hiatal hernia. Skeeter said. ace. Dr. Squyres told him

BOSQUECOUNTYTODAY.COM

feeding tube because the surgery he would have after chemo treatments meant he would have to relearn how to swallow and eat. He had also reached the point of malnutrition. “From December to May I was eating some Ramen noodles, milkshakes and Ensure protein drinks,” Skeeter said. “That was the only way I could have any kind of substance. “I could not swallow any kind of food. It would get hung in my chest and it would be this miserable pain and I’d have to throw it up,” Skeeter said. “By this point in time I had lost between 120 and 150 pounds before they got me on the feeding tube.” Because the tumor had grown into Skeeter’s stomach, Dr. Aravind Sanjeevaiah told him they weren’t going to be able to do the surgery to remove it. “We were going to do everything we could to try to shrink the tumor down, then I’d be on some kind of maintenance drug to keep it shrunk down,” Skeeter said. There are two different forms of the esophageal cancer Skeeter was diagnosed with. The more common one is treated with chemotherapy and sometimes radiation to help shrink it before the patient undergoes surgery to cut out what is left. Dr. Sanjeevaiah wanted to start Skeeter on weekly treatments in May and was unclear how long the treatments would last, but two days after laying out the plan, Skeeter’s stomach oncologist Dr. Matthew Porembka called to say he had great news. Dr. Porembka said that because Skeeter had the less common form of esophageal cancer, he would be able to participate in discovery trials. After the two doctors met with their team to discuss Skeeter’s situation, they decided to completely change his treatment program. Skeeter said he got his first win that day because Dr. Sanjeevaiah didn’t know how long the original treatments would last but were hoping to keep him alive for another two years. When Dr. Sanjeevaiah told him that news, Skeeter didn’t seem too worried about it. “I had two options. I would either get to hang out with my family for a lot longer, or I would get to go hang out with Jesus on a daily basis, so either way was great with me,” Skeeter said. Dr. Porembka said Skeeter would be doing immunotherapy, which is a new form of treatment seeing huge success in the treatment of cancer. On May 28, Skeeter received his first of 12 treatments, which he receives every two weeks. For the first 30 minutes of treatment Skeeter’s immune system is boosted to a superior level and the treatment is targeted towards his particular type of cancer. “It specifically knows to attack just the cancer cells; it doesn’t attack the other cells,” Skeeter said. “Chemo goes in and attacks everything and you hope it kills off the cancer cells, but people get really sick be-

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cause it’s attacking everything. With immunotherapy it attacks just the cancer cells and knows to go after the tumor.” After the immunotherapy treatment, Skeeter then goes through five hours of steroids and chemo treatments. He is then sent home with a pump that delivers more chemo over 46 hours. Skeeter was still on a feeding tube and his parents would come down to be with him during and after treatment because they didn’t know how it would affect him. Dr. Sanjeevaiah told Skeeter he wanted him to start trying to eat. “He told me that when I could consume 2,000 calories a day orally, we would talk about removing the feeding tube,” Skeeter said. “The only reason I had the feeding tube was because they were going to do surgery after my treatment.” Skeeter said the stomach is the scariest place for cancer to be because it’s so close to all the other organs. “It can jump to your lungs, it can jump to your heart, it can jump to your liver, it can jump anywhere faster from the stomach than anywhere else in the body,” Skeeter said. “That and cancer in the bone are the scariest places for doctors because it can jump so easily. And they don’t like to open you up because if they barely move any of that over, they can actually spread the cancer during the surgery.” Skeeter kept cutting back on what he was consuming through the feeding tube and after each treatment would try to eat more, different food. “I would go from just eating pudding or something soft to where I was able to eat fries or crackers and chips,” Skeeter said. “After my third treatment my family and I stopped to eat and I ate some fried catfish and I was able to eat it without having to throw it up.” After his fourth treatment, Skeeter was able to eat a steak. “That was the greatest steak in the world. It was amazing,” he said. Honestly, it might have been rubber, but in my head it was the greatest steak ever made. I ate a salad and a baked potato along with it and it was a glorious meal.” Although he still had the feeding tube in, Skeeter decided he was going to try to eat from then on. He and his stepmom began counting his calories and he was able to consume between 2,000 and 2,500 calories a day. That meant it was time to take the feeding tube out. “Getting the tube out was one of the greatest moments ever,” Skeeter said. “It was another battle I got to win. Skeeter tells people all the time that he doesn’t consider his cancer as a negative thing

anymore. He calls it a blessing. “Getting to meet all the new people I’ve met, getting to be around the doctors and nurses – I couldn’t have imagined a better experience,” Skeeter said. Skeeter went in for his 11th treatment on October 15 and will be done with his last treatment on October 31. He said he has built a camaraderie with the nursing staff and other patients at the treatment center. “A lot of us have the same cycle and you develop friends you want to sit with and talk to,” he said. “It becomes a little family and we all talk to each other and give each other different strategies and tricks that seem to work. And there are a couple of different nurses who would come hang out with me.” Skeeter said he has struggled with his weight his entire life. “When I first moved here I was right at 400 pounds and now I’m at 250,” he said. “I would not recommend this weight loss program to anyone but it’s 100% guaranteed that you’ll lose weight with cancer. “But for me the cancer is okay because all the different things God has done and allowed me to see – as negative as it could be, for me it was the total opposite,” Skeeter said. Skeeter’s stepmom told him God had given him a whole new mission field because when he goes in for treatments he continues to be himself. “You go through all these different emotions when you’re out in the waiting room,” Skeeter said. “Having cancer, it’s very easy to start blaming God or be mad or upset. And we’ve given people the right to be upset, and people understand when you’re down. But when you’re around people who are upbeat and happy, it’s intoxicating. Skeeter said he understands the battles people go through with cancer, but he knows he’s not fighting alone. “I’ve always heard people say God doesn’t give you more than you can handle. But if that were true we wouldn’t have suicides. We wouldn’t have depression,” he said. “So the truth of it is, Philippians 4:13 says, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ That’s how I know I can get through this because I know I’m not doing it by myself.” In one of his first meetings with Dr. Sanjeevaiah, Skeeter was asked about his support system. “I said I have a lot of people in my corner, and he thought that meant about 10 or 15 people. My stepmom said, ‘No, he’s got counties,’” Skeeter said. Skeeter moved from the small town of Franklin, TX, to the equally small town of Clifton, and between the two counties, Skeeter has thousands of people praying for him, sending him cards, and checking on him. Skeeter receives cards on a daily basis through the mail, and a group of ladies who regularly come to Royal Pizza set up a prayer box for him so people can leave encouraging cards and notes. Skeeter takes a stack of cards to open and read each time he goes for treatment. “When I go I end up taking 30 or 40 cards. At first the nurses thought they were the same cards each time, and they said I was very fortunate

to have so many people writing me cards and letters,” he said. Skeeter has hundreds and hundreds of cards at his house, and on days when he’s feeling tired or weak, he reads through them to help change his mindset. “I may still be tired, but I remember I’m going through this for a reason,” he said. “I may not know what it is right now, and that’s okay. There have been things in my life where I’ve been disappointed and didn’t get what I wanted, but I look back and see that I didn’t get what I wanted so something else could happen.” Before moving to Clifton, Skeeter was passed over for a job promotion and started looking for something new. “It wasn’t but just a few weeks after I got turned down for the job promotion that I was presented with the opportunity to buy Royal Pizza,” Skeeter said. Skeeter bought Royal Pizza in September 2017 and opened the doors under his ownership on January 2, 2018. “I look back and think if I wouldn’t have been turned down for that promotion, I wouldn’t have bought this place, and had I not bought this place I would have found out I had cancer in some big hospital in a room by myself,” Skeeter said. “But instead, I learned that I had cancer from a doctor who is not only a doctor but my friend. “It was at that moment that I realized I didn’t get the promotion because God knew what was coming and this was where I needed to be,” Skeeter said. “I wouldn’t have found out the same way and He knew I needed that. He knew what I was going to need in the future.” Doctors have been blown way by Skeeter’s progress. He went from making it two more years at best to the possibility of being cancer-free by Christmas. After being disconnected from his final treatment on October 31, Skeeter will go in for more CT scans, and because he can’t have surgery to remove the tumor, he may go through radiation to finish killing it off. But as of right now, the tumor has shrunk tremendously. The lymph nodes in his stomach are back to regular size and his stomach lining is back to normal, and neither show signs of damage. “My doctor said he thinks I’m going to live to be an old man,” Skeeter said. “And it’s not anything that I’ve done, by any means. “I didn’t want the cancer to change who I was, but it did change me. It changed me for the better,” he continued. “It didn’t turn me into someone who was depressed all the time; it’s done the total opposite. It’s brought me more out of my shell than I already was.” Skeeter said he has a pastor friend who asked him what it was like to be a walking, talking miracle. “It’s overwhelming. It’s awesome,” Skeeter said. “That’s why when anyone wants to sit down and talk about my experience, I’m all about it. “I wake up happy every day and I think people gravitate to that,” Skeeter said. “If I get to brighten someone else’s day, then it’s a good day for me.” BOSQUECOUNTYTODAY.COM

What’s Happening at the

By Deb Phinney Got time on your hands and nothing to do? Now through the holidays and into the New Year, the Bosque Arts Center is bustling with activities for people of all ages. November begins with the popular Texas Troubadour Songwriter Classic on Saturday, November 6th. This year’s headliner and judge is Marty Haggard. He is a celebrity in his own right and the son of the late, great Merle Haggard. In 1986, Marty released his Trains Make Me Lonesome and received a nomination as best new male vocalist of the year. His music is influenced by some of the greats, including Lefty Frizzell, Bob Wills and Johnny Cash. His love for his dad generated a new project in 2010, entitled A Tribute to Merle Haggard “My Dad.” Fifteen of “the Hag’s” classics were spotlighted in the first album and generated a tribute show in Branson, MO. His appearance at the Songwriter Classic begins with judging duties starting at 6 p.m. followed by his performance around 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale for $25 for general admission and reserved seating is available at $50, $75, and $125. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Originally booked through the e-BAC online auction, the Style of Fashion and Leadership Ladies Luncheon features a complete style show from Market at the Mill. Everything from jewelry, pajamas, purses and the latest styles will be showcased during this specially created fashion show. The luncheon is an expanded event that includes recognition of the ladies featured in the Women in Leadership special section from The Clifton Record and Meridian Tribune. The event is sponsored by Brooks Wealth Advisors as one of the luncheon sponsors along with Market at the Mill, The Clifton Record/Meridian Tribune and the Bosque Arts Center. As a joint venture between the Bosque Arts Center and The CLIFTEX Theatre, a special tribute to Veterans will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 10th at the CLIFTEX. A showing of “To Hell and Back” stars Audie Murphy in his real-life enactment set during World War II. The event is being sponsored by Jimmie and Karen Hughes. This movie is another in the BAC Movie night series. For movie tickets call the Bosque Arts Center at 254-675-3724 or purchase tickets online. Concessions will be available at the theater. Veterans receive free admission upon proof of service. Holiday BINGO is back and will take place on November 9th and again on December 14th. Adam Willmann will be our guest caller and promises surprises at each date. Once again the jackpot during the 5th game of the evening will be $500, providing a great boon for holiday shopping for the lucky winner. Bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. and participants are encouraged to bring their favorite munchies to this BYOB event. One of Texas’ most unique experiences is Tablescapes at the Bosque Arts Center featuring 40 tables of uniquely decorated tabletops. Tables range from the most simplistic style to the elaborate. They celebrate every holiday and/or reason for families and friends to gather together. Bosque Arts Center member Jan Kieta heads up this special event and has been doing so for the last 10 plus years. “I so enjoy working with the members and volunteers who participate in this event. I’m always impressed by the imaginative ways everyone devises to decorate their particular table,” Jan said. The Tablescapes event kicks off with an opening reception on November 18th with handcrafted cocktails and homemade munchies. Tickets are $25 each and reservations are requested and available by calling 254-675-3724 or online at bosqueartscenter.org. In honor of our Norwegian heritage, a special Rosemaling Workshop will be offered at the

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Bosque Arts Center on Wednesday, December 1st and Thursday, December 2nd from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Peg Piltingsrud, instructor for this painting class, has taught all over the country and is regularly featured during Scandinavian Heritage Week, which is held at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, North Carolina. Rosemaling honors the intricate woodcarvings of the Norse Vikings. In the early 1700s, Norwegian professional painters started combining Rococo and Baroque styles along with other design elements and the art of Rosemaling was created. Piltingsrud’s workshop is a two-day event for both beginners and intermediate painters. The cost is $150 for the workshop and includes most of your supplies. Reservations are required as class size is limited. Each student will leave the class with a completed project. Call the Bosque Arts Center for more information. The Arts of Christmas Open House is planned for Friday evening, December 3rd and all day Saturday, December 4th. Friday’s festivities begin at 4:00 p.m. with a reception and meet and greet for long-time employee Jane Scott, who recently retired from the Bosque Arts Center. Come join Jane and visit with her and share memories of her tenure at the Bosque Arts Center. The public is invited. Festivities will continue on Saturday with club activities and a surprise for the younger generation. Also in-house will be the Quilt Display for the Norwegian Country Christmas Tour. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. and close at 5:00 p.m. Don’t miss the holiday performance of Handel’s Messiah performed by the Bosque Chorale. This event will take place Thursday, December 9th at 7:00 p.m in Frazier Performance Hall. Tickets are $20 each and may be purchased online. Looking to add to your holiday décor? Don’t miss the Gingerbread

Workshop set for Sunday, December 12th. This event starts at 2:00 p.m. with Kit Myer of San Antonio joining us for an afternoon of fun. Participants will each build their own very special Gingerbread structure. Cost is $35 per structure and includes all building materials as well as a huge selection of candies for everyone’s enjoyment. Reservations are required and available online at bosqueartscenter.org. The new year kicks off with a bang – or rather a song! The Texas A&M University Singing Cadets will grace the stage of Frazier Performance Hall on Thursday, January 13th at 7:00 p.m. Tickets will go on sale in late November. Planning is still in process, so additional information will be available closer to the start of ticket sales. February features two special events. The Variety Show for Scholarships is scheduled for two nights this year – Friday, February 4th and Saturday, February 5th – and provides funding for the BAC scholarship program. Janet Jackson, who directs this elaborate stage production, promises an evening of fun and frivolity for all in attendance. Tickets will be available online in early January. On Thursday, February 17th, the Bosque Arts Center welcomes the Glenn Miller Orchestra to Frazier Performance Hall. Although the faces have changed from the original band conductor and namesake Glenn Miller, the music reflects the big band sound with all its complex harmonies and syncopated rhythms. Popular during the Swing Era from the early 1930s through the late 1940s, this special performance is sure to please all. This event just might spur on a little dancing! Additional information will be forthcoming after the start of 2022. From musical events to workshops to movies, bingo and more, the Bosque Arts Center is one of the premier venues for art, entertainment and education in Bosque County.

Entertainment for Everyone TABLESCAPES Reception

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By Brook DeZavala Testicular Cancer. It’s not a topic that comes up often or a topic people are all that comfortable talking about. But not for 18-year-old Trenton Laredo Roberson of Cranfills Gap. He is on a mission to bring awareness to testicular cancer in any way he can. Trenton, having just finished his last round of chemo, was all smiles and high spirits from the first minute I met him. He didn’t seem embarrassed or shy about the subject. In fact, he jumped right into how he discovered he had cancer. Around December of 2020 he was showering and felt a lump/small mass. He said he didn’t think much of it and it went away after about a month. Another month went by and it returned. Trenton said when it didn’t go away like it did the first time, he knew something was wrong, but he and his mother had previously had a conversation about testicular cancer, which made it easier when he told her about it. In March of 2021 Trenton went to see his family doctor. “He had to get all up in there,” Trenton said laughing. One of the tests the doctor administered was to turn the lights off in the exam room and use a flashlight to see if light would pass through the mass. The test would determine if the mass was fluid buildup or if it was solid. Trenton said when light didn’t pass through the mass, things were more

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severe than they had hoped. About a week later he went to see a urologist. He said he was a little scared at that point and didn’t really know what to expect. Four people were in the exam room including the urologist. He said that “freaked” him out because it made him feel like what was happening was more serious. The urologist confirmed the mass as cancerous using a sonogram machine. Trenton said he had to come to terms with showing his private area to multiple people very quickly, but when it comes down to it doctors are trained to examine all parts of your body, and they see them more often than people realize. About a month later Trenton had his right testicle removed. Trenton said one thing that surprised him, along with many others who were brave enough to ask him, was that typically testicles are removed through the abdomen. He said people seem to think they are removed by cutting into the scrotum but it’s actually very rare. His recovery time after surgery was surprisingly quick. Trenton said he thought that after having the testicle removed, he was cancer free, but when he went to follow up with an oncologist a bombshell was dropped on him. His doctor told him after testing the mass they determined he had embryonal testicular cancer. This type of cancer was very aggressive and typically spread to other areas of the body, and there was a 50% chance the cancer could return. His doctor gave him two options. He could come back for two years to be monitored, or he could go through six weeks of preventative chemotherapy and reduce the risk from 50% to a 5% chance of it returning. If he chose to be monitored and the cancer returned, he would likely go through six months of chemotherapy. Trenton and his family decided six weeks of preventative chemotherapy was the option they would go with. When Trenton started chemotherapy he said the hardest part of it was

not being able to play football. But he considered himself lucky because he never really got sick. He said he had his moments, but overall, his appetite and health were better than anticipated. He said it was weird not having thick, wavy red hair because that was somewhat of a signature characteristic of his. He likes wearing his beanie that says, “Bad Hair Day.” Trenton said his family was an amazing support system. He also met some amazing people along the way who greatly contributed to his support system. All throughout chemotherapy he would get uplifting gifts from all kinds of people and that really helped keep his spirits up. Everyone from the medical staff to receptionists were very positive and fun to be around. Trenton said he wants other men, young and old, to self-check and seek help if they think there is something to worry about. He has learned that testicular cancer is found more so in men ages 15 to 35, but any man can get it. “The earlier it’s discovered the better chance you have,” Trenton said. “I am still me, I am still a guy, and I still function like a guy, just with one less testicle,” Trenton said. “If more stories were told about testicular cancer maybe it would make people less uncomfortable, and more lives could be saved,” Trenton said. Trenton and his mother have documented his journey through social media with his Facebook page “Lost Marble – A Tale of Testicular Can-

cer” in hopes of raising more awareness. After looking through his journey on social media and speaking with him, it’s clear Trenton has unknowingly made a huge impact. If not through his comical yet inappropriate shirts about his testicle removal, then definitely through his smile, cheerful behavior and willingness to share his story. Since his last treatment Trenton has returned to his passion of playing football. In his first game back, he didn’t play like he had just finished chemotherapy the Tuesday before. He dominated on the field with seven defensive tackles and contributed three rushing touchdowns and has been recognized as player of the week by 6-man’s Tougher than Tough. Trenton gives credit for his recovery to his family, friends, unknowing strangers, coaches and doctors. “They made it so much easier for me to fight this,” he said. Trenton has fought this battle with humor and positivity, but none the less he was fiercely fighting for his life. He has made it a new passion to bring awareness to as many people as he can. He says he is an open book and is willing to talk to anyone who has questions. Trenton’s story has made it to radio and television stations, and he hopes his story will continue to educate and bring awareness. “If my story brings awareness to save one life then everything was worth it,” he said.

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The Holistic Dream By Brook DeZavala Living off the land in today’s society is almost unheard of, but Cameron Ranch is a working, almost completely self-sufficient, livestock ranch. Jack and Tammy Cameron have worked hard to accomplish a healthy, all-natural way of life. Although Cameron Ranch was established in 1994, Jack and Tammy were far from inexperienced in the cattle business. Both were raised in a small Kansas town where they met and where Jack got into the livestock business. Originally, Jack wanted to raise calves on their Texas ranch and relocate them to their ranch in Kansas, but that didn’t work so they decided stay in Texas. Raising cattle wasn’t the Cameron’s only goal. They wanted to become

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Family photos courtesy of Jack and Tammy Cameron.

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produce artisans. Tammy said they started their all natural, chemical and pesticide free garden using fertilizers sustained by their livestock. Their organic garden did so well it had to be expanded several times. Jack said their goal was to meet the needs of individuals who didn’t want industrialized beef or produce. Since their produce and livestock were organic, their dream of a Holistic Farm was born. Cameron Family Farm achieved the American Grass Association certification, which allowed them to sell their products to farmers markets and restaurants. The Camerons did extensive research into the native grass and vegetation of their farm. No fertilizers, pesticides or additives are used on their land. “We’re not in the livestock business, we’re in the grass business. We use cattle to harvest our grass,” Jack said. Cattle and lamb aren’t the only livestock lucky enough to be raised organically. Chickens, donkeys, horses, and a llama are among their crew. Of course, they have their two shepherd dogs that protect their flock. While we toured the property, I asked how many acres they operated on. The Camerons humbly said it had been quilted together over time. It was a God thing, none of the property was on the market when they purchased it.

While we travelled the property Jack explained that the livestock he chose to raise originated from climates similar to Bosque County. He said that made it less stressful for the animal, which directly affects the taste of the meat. The animals naturally do what they were intended to do. He said he doesn’t ween the young so they can learn naturally where to find water and seek shelter. Letting the livestock thrive naturally allows them to be rarely ill, and overall stress free. Jack does seek modern medical treatment if it’s necessary but does not process or sell any livestock that has been treated with anything other than organic medicine. The cattle are a breed called Corriente. Corriente cattle are small framed and don’t cause damage to the land like larger breeds do. And they are self-sufficient on the native grasses of Bosque County. Jack said the breed is naturally low in fat, cholesterol, calories and naturally marble for tenderization and taste. The lamb are a breed called Dorper. Dorper are a very docile cross breed of Dorset Rams and Blackhead Persian Ewes. This well-muscled breed is high in protein, vitamins and minerals and require minimal labor to manage. All their livestock are processed through a USDA certified processor. While some grass-fed livestock are fed other types of feeds to fat-

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ten them up when sent to processing, their livestock go directly from grass fed to processing, which is called grass finished. The livestock don’t eat anything other than grass grown on the Cameron farm. “That’s what makes us completely organic and it’s something we’re very proud to offer,” Jack said. The Cameron’s operation is very impressive, and they are happy to offer any advice to anyone who wants to learn how to live a holistic lifestyle. Their livestock and produce are for sale through their website and the farmers market in Meridian, or you can sample it at Oma Leen’s restaurant in Walnut Springs.

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Valley Mills Vineyards Making World

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By Rita Hamilton Driving up the long lane to Valley Mills Vineyards is breathtaking in itself. The beauty of the rolling hills of Bosque County and the associated vineyards that dot the landscape is reminiscent of something you think you would see in the Napa Valley. Joey Bagnasco, along with his parents, are the proud owners of this local winery located at 1686 FM 1637 in Valley Mills. He is also the general manager and winemaker at this establishment. Joey is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to winemaking and takes great pride when talking about this local, family-owned and operated business. “We love growing grapes, making wine and sharing those wines with our customers,” he said. The Bagnasco family has been growing grapes in Valley Mills since 2007. During the first 10 years, they operated out of a small, rented warehouse on Highway 6. The Estate Winery was completed in early 2019 and is less than three years old. It is the fulfillment of a long-held dream of the family to build a genuine estate winery, which by definition, includes growing the grapes on the property and making the wine as one connected, integrated business. Visitors have the opportunity to see where the grapes are grown, how the wine is made and experience tours of the production process. The environment is welcoming and the staff does an excellent job of making visitors feel comfortable. This beautiful three-story building was built to maximize the efficiency of production while providing people with an incredible view of the vineyards. The grapes actually come into the building on the top floor and move down all three stories. This allows for gravity flow winemaking, which ends up in the underground barrel cellar. The design of the building was structured for winemaking purposes as well as hosting guests and providing them with a great view. Large windows allow visitors to actually see the process in production. They invite people through their daily tours, wine tastings and events to see every aspect of the process. All of their wines are

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produced from 100% Texas-grown grapes. They make a range of wines, which are dictated by nature or the agricultural side of things. Some of their vines, originally native to Spain, Portugal, central Italy and southern France, produce grapes that grow well in the hot climate of central Texas. Northern German and French grapes do not adapt well to the Texas heat, so they stay away from trying to duplicate those wines. In working with nature, they have come to know which grapes do well in order to produce the best wine. The process is complicated, therefore, being in sync with the agricultural side of the business is critical to the creation of a good wine that they have come to be known for. Although they do make a few sweet wines, their stylistic preference is to follow the European tradition of producing mostly dry wines. In the winemaking process, the winemaker has full control as to how sweet or dry a wine comes out. By definition, a dry wine has zero residual sugar. The yeast used to make the wine consumes the sugar and therefore begets a drier wine. This has been the tradition for thousands of years. Now that there is modern filtration and temperature controls, along with many other modern technologies, it has become easier to make sweet wines. Of note, sweet wines only came into existence during the 1950s. Prior to that period, sweet wines contained in a bottle would have simply exploded due to the fermentation of sugar and yeast. Today that challenge has been alleviated with modern advances in both filtration and pasteurization. “As a winemaker, I really do appreciate dry wines because they are very transparent,” Joey said. “You can hide a lot of faults and flaws in the winemaking process with sugar. In a dry wine you can really smell and taste everything that’s going on.” Wine critics, winemakers and people who appreciate dry wines say the highest level of wine can be achieved when you have nowhere to hide; everything is on display in that wine, and you can smell the many aromas from the ingredients used to make the wine. When it comes to dry wines, Joey shares that like many things, it can be an acquired taste. He refers to the fact that Americans have more of a sweet tooth than most Europeans. If people are accustomed to sweet foods, sweet drinks or sweet coffee then at first they will find a dry wine to be quite bitter relative to the other things they are consuming.

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The trend among new wine drinkers is that they start with sweeter, softer wines and eventually migrate over to more serious, intense dry wines. Valley Mills Vineyards made a choice to produce drier wines in an effort to be one with nature as opposed to fighting it. It is no secret that the majority of your high-end wine drinkers have an appreciation for the dry wines produced. Most wine in the United States is bought in grocery or liquor stores and consumed within 24 hours. But Valley Mills Vineyards produces wines that are not of that caliber. There are a number of high-quality wineries in Texas, especially down in the Fredericksburg area. But Joey is quick to point out that if one were to put together a list of the best wineries in Texas, Valley Mills Vineyards would hopefully be among the top 10 of those establishments who grow their own grapes and make their own wine. There is a lot of quality control in the wine industry and it tends to be that the best products come from those wineries that are doing as much as possible in-house. “If you try to jump in the middle of the process, or don’t know where your grapes are being farmed, then you lose that quality control and one can easily slide down into providing a mediocre product,” Joey said. The winemakers at VMV are meticulous about everything, from the grapes they produce all the way to the finished product. In addition to being obsessive about the wine making process, there is also a lot of attention to detail when it comes to their guests and their experience at VMV. Their informal tagline is “world class wine with Texas grown grapes” and the Bagnasco family is honored to provide an environment displaying Texas hospitality to all who enter their establishment. When people choose to come to Valley Mills Vineyards, they can be confident that the staff will go the extra mile to make their visit a relaxing experience in a beautiful location, complete with some of the finest wines made in Texas. Long-term goals focus on improving the estate to include planting more vineyards, making improvements to further beautify the property and continuing to focus on their commitment to quality. There is still room to grow with regards to the amount of wine they make within the current facility while maintaining the quality product for which they are known. Bosque County is a great place to grow grapes so the

potential for future growth in the industry is very possible. Farming is not easy, and Joey says they are definitely better farmers than they were 14 years ago. Joey likens their wine making process to “as a chef creates a great meal using only the best ingredients, we strive to make the best wines possible using only the finest grapes.” For those planning a tasting at Valley Mills Vineyards, their well-appointed staff will recommend a wine tasting where the guest has the opportunity to taste four or five different wines and learn more about each one. The tours of the facility provide an in depth look at the facility and the process as well as the experience of a wine tasting. Tours usually take between 30 to 40 minutes. If neither the tasting or the tour is on your bucket list, guests are welcome to just hang out on the patio to share a glass or a bottle of wine. The intimate bistro feel also provides for a few menu items to add to your experience. “We are happy to meet people where they are at. If they want to do the formal tasting or tour, we love spending more time with them,” Joey said. The Estate Winery is open every day from noon to 6:00 p.m. No appointment is necessary, however, large groups of eight or more should call ahead. They also host private events and weddings after hours. As one would expect, the weekends are busy, but if people are looking for a more low-key experience, they are happy to accommodate schedules for a tour or tasting during the week. “Whether you are a wine enthusiast or are new to wine, everyone is invited to check out the unique experiences we are able to provide here at Valley Mills Vineyards. All are welcome so come hang out with us and see what we do here,” Joey said.

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What’s your name? By Ashley Barner It’s been over 10 years since Walt Lewis of the Bosque County Rotary Club asked Clifton High School teacher Ted Jones to sponsor the Interact Club at the school. Ted was already doing a lot of community service with the students at the time, and sponsoring an official club seemed to be a natural fit. Six to 10 students joined in the first year but the club has grown to 20 to 25 consistent members today. “That number varies because when we do projects we have kids who will help us out and decide they like doing it, so they’ll join the club. Then in the spring we usually have a really good response,” Ted said. Projects done through the club are funded by money raising events like bake sales or garage sales, and some are sponsored by the Bosque Rotary Club like the Socks and Blankets Drive. One of the first projects this year had the kids cleaning the park in Clifton and painting pavilions. The students will also be collecting food for the food pantry in November and continues to provide meals for the homeless. “The kids not only feed the homeless, but before the pandemic we would have a Shelter Night about three times a semester where we’d take the kids to the homeless shelter in Waco,” Ted said. There the kids would provide the homeless with food, fellowship and entertainment. “We haven’t been able to do it this year but it’s definitely something we want to do again,” he said. The shelter isn’t allowing visitors, but the group is still able to provide meals outside. Earlier this year the Interact Club cooked meals to deliver to the homeless at their campsites. Spending time with the homeless has provided an intimate learning experience for the students. “It gives them a reality of what’s really going on in life,” Ted said. “The Bible talks so much about feeding the poor, and Jesus was always feeding the people no one liked and who were on the lowest rung of society, and it makes you look at things differently.” Ted said it makes you look at what the homeless don’t have, but it also makes you look at what you do have. “If you have a house and are warm or have a job and have food, you’ll see that a lot

Ted Jones speaks candidly about the Clifton Interact Club and the homeless population in Waco.

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Members of the Clifton Interact Club visit the Bosque County Rotary Club.

of people don’t have any of those things,” he said. The students come up with many of the service projects on their own, and Ted said after visiting with the homeless they decided to collect dog and cat food for the animals of the homeless. “Most of the homeless people don’t have anybody who cares for them, so the animal is a huge part of their life,” Ted said. “I thought this was a neat idea, especially because the kids came up with it themselves.” Ted said the kids also address needs they see in the community, like cleanup jobs and mowing lawns. “We’re planning a cleanup program for the spring to help people with their yards, especially for those who are older and can’t do yardwork,” Ted said. Although the club has adult sponsors, the kids are responsible for the work done with each project. “Even when they go down to feed the homeless, the kids cook some of the food. They serve the food, they hand out all the pet food, they interact with the people down there,” Ted said. “They even help clean up the camps down there.” The homeless are always happy to see the students come down. “They like to see anybody who will recognize them as human beings, and the kids are actually very sensitive to that,” Ted said. “Most of the time they haven’t been treated very well, so any time someone shows any type of compassion toward them, they respond well to it.”

Ted said they discuss in length the do’s and don’ts with the students before they work with the homeless in Waco. “We go in groups with adult supervision, and we always talk to them about what they can expect and what they’ll see,” Ted said. “And for the most part the kids adapt really well.” In addition to providing meals, the kids hand out socks and blankets during the colder months. “Socks are like gold,” Ted said. “Everyone always needs socks.” Many local churches as well as individuals donate socks. Ted said the best packs to buy are white, one size fits all socks. A smaller foot can wear a bigger sock, but a bigger foot can’t wear a smaller sock. And Ted said that when given a choice, the homeless will choose white socks over black or any other color. “And the blankets that work the best aren’t even really blankets. They’re packing blankets,” Ted said. “They’re lightweight, cheaper and warmer than other blankets.” Packing blankets also don’t get as dirty as fast and are easier to travel with. “When you buy anything for a homeless person, it doesn’t need to be a fluorescent, bright color because that attracts attention to them,” Ted said. It’s not usually the police the homeless are worried about – it’s gangs or other people looking to take advantage of them. Ted also said when you buy tarps to donate for them to put over their tents, they need to be brown, green or camouflage. BOSQUECOUNTYTODAY.COM

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regular basis. “That’s why the Johnson & Johnson vaccine was given to the homeless because it was only one shot,” Ted said. “If you gave them the others, how could you be sure they’d come back for the second one in time or even at all?” The Meyer Center is the heart of the homeless operation in Waco. The homeless can see doctors, dentists, connect with social workers and receive mail through the center, as well as get cleared to enter the shelter. The workers at the center also try to keep in touch with the families of the homeless. “It’s an invaluable resource for the homeless in Waco,” Ted said. Ted said it is difficult for homeless people to reestablish themselves so they can get jobs or move into an apartment because many of them have been without any form of identification for an extended period of time. “There’s a lot of steps to take to get their ID back and many of them get discouraged and give up,” Ted said. “So then they can’t get a job because they don’t have an ID so they can pay taxes and Social

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“Cities have tent laws,” Ted said. “If they see the tent it will be torn up or taken down. And when the leaves fall they have to be able to blend into their surroundings.” Although the shelter is often full, some homeless people prefer not to be in the shelter at all. “It can be very claustrophobic. You’re locked in and it’s a very tight situation. And a lot of the mentally ill individuals cannot be in enclosed situations,” Ted said. “It can be part of why they’re homeless.” Ted said many of them have a hard time being around crowds and don’t get along well with other people. The shelter has stacked beds of three and no windows, so someone with those challenges can become overwhelmed very quickly. Ted said Texas ranks towards the bottom of the list of funding for social workers to work with the homeless. “There are social workers who come down and try to help them get into programs or get them to work with MHMR, but there’s so many people who need help,” Ted said. And unless the homeless actually want help it’s hard to get them to show up for appointments or remember to take medicine on a

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Security. “It’s like these people don’t actually exist.” Ted continued. “They’re not in any record system and are lost and invisible.” Ted said the number one way to help those who want to get off the street is to encourage them to not quit. Because the system is complicated it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But if you walk them through the steps a little at a time, it gets easier. When Ted takes his students to visit the homeless in Waco, he tells them it’s important to shake their hands (under non-pandemic circumstances) and especially important to ask them their name. Ted said one man he knew said it had been over a year since someone had asked him what his name was. “A lot of parents will tell their kids to look away or not make eye contact when they see a homeless person, and the homeless know that,” Ted said. “It’s important to recognize them as a human being and treat them like a human being.” Ted said most homeless people are not scary people once you get to know them. “90% of them are more scared of you than you are of them,” Ted said. “If they act aggressively, it’s because they want you to stay away because they’re afraid you’ll call the cops or hurt them. “They’ve been treated so badly for so long,” he continued. “Most anybody would be scared to death to spend 24 hours living on the street in the city.” Ted went on to say that we know if we call the police someone will come, but the homeless don’t have that security. “They’re on their own. That’s why a lot of them don’t sleep at night,” he said. “They stay up to protect themselves and then sleep during the day.” Most homeless people are in high crime areas because they have to be in a place where they can blend in. “They’re not going to let you sleep in some rich guy’s front yard,” Ted said. “They have to be in a place nobody cares about and nobody wants to deal with – which is usually down by the railroad tracks in high crime areas.” Although they don’t have doors, Ted said he always waits to be invited in when he visits the camps. “It’s like going to somebody’s house,” he said. “You don’t just wander around and take pictures. They’re not animals in a zoo. They are humans and they have feelings.” He always says “knock, knock,” and identifies himself when he gets close. He also brings a gift like a Dr. Pepper or a pair of socks, like a house gift. “If they say no, I can’t come in, then I tell them I’m leaving the gift on a rock for them, but if they invite me in, I’ll bring the gift to them and we’ll visit,” Ted said. Ted said he first started helping out with the homeless because he ran into an ex-student. “I went back to see him and there was another Clifton person I had taught there,” Ted said. “And then I kept running into people I had taught even back when I was teaching in Waco. “I tried to figure out why they were on the street so I kept visiting them,” he added. “Once I knew someone on the street it really started bothering me when I’d be at home at night and it was cold or raining.” Ted said to really understand it you have to make it personal. “We tend to dehumanize it and homeless people are very easy to

dehumanize,” he said. “As I met more people and got to know them I understood how they lived the way they did.” Ted said there are three types of homeless people. The first group is one that will only be on the street for a short period of time and do everything they can go get off. “It may take them a while but they’ll probably get off within a year,” he said. Another group will be there a while and aren’t sure what to do and may or may not ever get off. “Not everybody wants off,” Ted said. “And then there’s the hardcore group. At that point it’s very hard to get them off.” Ted says some of the hardcore group does get off the street, but it has to be of their own free will. “They’ve been on the street for years and they’ve adapted and are very comfortable with their lives,” Ted said. Ted said he always takes a homeless person’s advice on how to help other homeless people. “I’ve decided they’re the experts on what to do with a homeless person,” he said. “This person who has been on the street for more than a year can tell you more about what should happen and what the reality is more than any book you could ever read.” Ted said the best piece of advice he ever received from a homeless person came from the Bible and can be applied to any facet of life. “Treat your neighbor as yourself. They’re all your neighbor. They’re all someone’s brother or sister,” he said. “They all have a soul and have the exact same feelings as everybody else. They need to be recognized as human beings.”

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AUTOMOTIVE

The Clifton Record & The Meridian Tribune 310 W 5th St Clifton, TX 254-675-3336 bosquecountytoday.com

Briley Auto Supply Greg & Marie Garland 121 Main St Meridian, TX 76665 254-435-2212

ANTIQUES Bosque County Emporium 121 N Ave D Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8133 bosquecountyemporium@ gmail.com

Douglass Ford 1206 N Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8315 douglassford.shop

ARTISTS/ART GALLERIES

Hillsboro Ford 404 N IH 35 Frontage Rd Hillsboro, TX 76645 254-582-5361 hillsborofordtx.com

Bosque Arts Center 215 S College Hill Dr Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-3724 Bosqueartscenter.org

Ken’s Auto Supply 920 N Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8100

George Boutwell 3083 Hwy 6 Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-6676 Gboutwell.com

Myatt Fuels 202 N Ave B Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8107 Myattfuels.net

L.A. Thompson Gallery of Fine Arts An Thompson 114 N Ave D Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-2787 FB@lathomsonart

BANKING & FINANCE Capital Farm Credit 702 W 5th St Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8698 Capitalfarmcredit.com

Citizens State Bank 505 W 5th St Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-2211 citizensstatebanktx.com First National Bank of Bosque County 1203 N Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-6570 fnbbosque.com First Security State Bank 1115 W 5th St Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-2265 fssbtexas.com Mattson Financial Services 5400 Bosque Blvd 4th Floor Waco, TX 76710 254-772-6383 Mattsonfinancialservices.com

CONSTRUCTION / HOME REPAIR B&C Exteriors 101 Scurlock St Grandview, TX 76050 817-866-4897 Bandcexteriors.com JB Precision Installers P.O. Box 141 Rainbow, TX 76077 817-243-5260 Precisioninstallerstx.com

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Loftin Dirt Works 307 N Ave C Clifton, TX 76634 254-640-1104 jldirtworks18@gmail.com M2 Construction 100 East Jefferson Abbott, TX 76621 254-716-5562 FB@m2squareconstruction Leon’s Floor Covering 302 W 5th St Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8686 Leonsfloorsclifton.com R&M Fencing 1885 Co Rd 182 Purmela, TX 76566 254-248-2205 Randmfencing.com Tri County Guttering Co Inc. 286 Lady Bird Rd Waco, TX 76712 254-848-7246 Tricountyguttering.com Vortex Welding Solutions LLC 215 CR 1813 Clifton, TX 76634 405-830-4458 254-709-4132 Vortexweldingsolutions.com Williams Construction Co. 9149 Hwy 6 Meridian, TX 76665 254-435-9011

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GOVERNMENT

Wright Construction 601 W Wall St Grapevine, TX 76051 817-481-2594 Wrightconst.com

Bosque County Central Appraisal District 9293 Hwy 6 Meridian, TX 76665 254-435-2304 Bosquecad.com

EDUCATION Clifton ISD 1102 Key Ave Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-2827 cliftonisd.org Cranfills Gap ISD 505 S 2nd St Cranfills Gap, TX 76637 254-263-3388 cranfillsgapisd.net Meridian ISD 310 D St Meridian, TX 76665 254-435-2326 Meridianisd.org

FARM & RANCH Tipton International, Inc. 514 Abbott Ave Hillsboro, TX 76645 254-582-5333 Tiptoninternational.com Waco Livestock Auction 2316 Marlin Hwy Waco, TX 76704 254-753-3191 Wacolivestock.com

Bosque County Judge’s Office 110 S Main, Room 100 P.O. Box 647 Meridian, TX 76665 254-435-2382 ext 6 City of Iredell 225 Eastland St Iredell, TX 254-364-2436 City of Meridian 111 Main St Meridian TX 76665 254-435-2381 meridiantexas.us Clifton Chamber of Commerce Paige Key 115 N Ave D Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-3720 cliftontexas.org Clifton Main Street 403 W 3rd St P.O. Box 231 Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8337 FB@CliftonMainStreet

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HEALTH & WELLNESS Albrecht’s Pharmacy 506 W 5th St Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8398 Albrechtspharmacy.com Brookhaven Youth Ranch 5467 Rogers Hill Rd West, TX 76691 254-829-1893 brookhavenyouthranch.org Careflite 4458 FM Rd 933 Whitney, TX 76692 800-442-6260 careflite.org Dynamic Family Dentistry 302 S Ave Q Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-3518 bosquecountydentist.com Goodall-Witcher Healthcare/ Bosque County Health District 101 Posey Ave Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8322 gwhealthcare.org Hamilton Healthcare System 400 N Brown St Hamilton, TX 76531 254-386-1600 hamiltonhospital.org Lake Whitney Dental 1502 N Brazos St Whitney, TX 76692 254-694-3111 lakewhitneydental.com Lutheran Sunset Ministries 413 Sunset Ave P.O. Box 71 Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8637 Lutheransunset.org

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Waco Cardiology Associates 7125 New Sanger Rd A Waco, TX 76712 254-399-5400 Wacocardiology.com

First Presbyterian Church 211 S Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8105 Fpcclifton.com

Waco Heart and Vascular 321 Richland W Cir Waco, TX 76712 254-235-9355 Wacohv.com

First United Methodist Church 303 S Ave E Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-3984 Fumcclifton.com

Whitney Medical Urgent Care 200 N San Jacinto St Suite B Whitney, TX 76692 254-332-0123 Whitneymedicalcernter.com

Peace Lutheran Church 330 W 5th St P.O. Box 112 Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8823 Peacelutheranclifton.org

LODGING Screen Door Inn 110 N Ave D Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-7829 Screendoorinn.com

PET SERVICES The River’s Bend Doggie Drop Inn P.O. Box 228 Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-4936 Doggiedropinn.com

PRAISE & WORSHIP Bosque County Cowboy Church 7023 Hwy 6 Meridian, TX 76665 254-396-1032 bosquecountycowboychurch. com Clifton Bible Church 414 W 5th St Clifton, TX 76634 254-707-1076 cliftonbiblechurch.org First Baptist Church Meridian 207 N Hill St Meridian, TX 76665 254-435-6007 fbcmeridiantx.org

Texas Conference Association of Seventh Day Adventists 1211 W US-67 Alvarado, TX 76009 817-790-2255 Texasadventist.org Zion United Church of Womack 1411 FM 219 Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-3599 zionunitedchurchwomack.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Lhoist 2861 FM 2602 Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-8668 Lhoist.com Total Placement 7530 Bosque Blvd C Waco, TX 76712 254-751-7313 Totalplacement.com Vira Clear Mike Murski Meridian, TX 76665 833-817-3620 Viraclear.net

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REAL ESTATE SERVICES

cornerdrugcafe.com

Brookshirebrothers.com

Bosque County Properties 215 W 5th St Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-3818 bosquecountyproperties.com

Dairy Queen 311 N Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-3003 dairyqueen.com

Double B Foods, Inc. 113 Morgan St Meridian, TX 76665 254-435-6187 doubleb.com

Bosque Real Estate, Inc. 100 N Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 800-344-8092 bosquerealestate.com

Foothills Restaurant and Bar 702 S Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-2573

Hamilton Farmers Market 822 E Main St Hamilton, TX 76531 254-386-5004 FB@farmersmarkethamilton

Carlisle Real Estate 305 E Morgan St Meridian, TX 76665 254-435-3001 carlisletexas.com Clayton Waggoner Properties 325 North St. Paul Street Dallas, TX 75201 972-897-9000 claytonwaggoner.com Clifton Manor Apartments 115 S Ave P Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-3616 FB@CliftonManorApartments Cobb Properties 300 3rd St Cranfills Gap, TX 76637 254-253-0157 Cobbranchproperties.com Sauer & Associates Real Estate 600 S Bosque St Whitney, TX 76692 254-694-0123 Sauerrealestate.com

RESTAURANTS & DINING Burger King/Clifton Fast Stop 102 S Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-6111 Corner Drug Cafe 102 N Ave D Clifton, TX 76634 254-265-7737

Horny Toad Bar & Grill 319 3rd St Cranfills Gap, TX 76637 254-597-1100 Hornytoadbar.com Olaf’s Restaurant and Bar 121 N Ave D Clifton, TX 76634 254-268-8880 olafs-olafstoo.com Royal Pizza 602 S Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-4500 Royalpizzatx.com

RETAIL & GROCERY Brookshire’s Food & Pharmacy 900 FM 3220 Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-3111 brookshires.com Buckshot Rustic Furniture & Gifts 1432 E State Hwy 22 Whitney, TX 76692 254-694-4100 Cheerful Heart Gifts & Boutique 9311 Hwy 6 Meridian, TX 76665 254-314-8999 cheerfulheartgifts.com David’s/Brookshire Brothers 614 S Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 254-675-6345

Lawson Implement Co. 1130 S Hwy 281 Hamilton, TX 76531 800-658-6807 Lawson-implement.com Meridian Frozen Food & Locker LLC 106 Morgan St Meridian, TX 76665 254-435-2803 Stitchin’ Shack 4355 FM 933 Whitney, TX 76692 254-824-1234 Stitchinshackwhitney.com

UTILITIES Heart of Texas Electric Cooperative 1111 Johnson Dr P.O. Box 357 McGregor, TX 76657 800-840-2957 Hotec.coop Hilco United Services 4581 FM Rd 933 Whitney, TX 76692 254-694-5237 Hilcounitedservices.com Texas New Mexico Power 1304 N Ave G Clifton, TX 76634 888-866-7456 Tnmp.com

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ADVERTISER INDEX

Bar None Country Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Heart of Texas Electric Coop . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Bosque Arts Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Jim’s Package Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Bosque Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Ken’s Auto Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Briley Auto Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

LA Thompson Gallery of Fine Arts . . . . . . . 18

Burger King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Leon’s Floor Covering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Careflite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Lutheran Sunset Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Carlisle Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Market at the Mill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

CBS Royal Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Myatt Fuels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Charlie’s Wrecker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Rangler’s Convenience Store . . . . . . . . . . 27

Church of Christ Clifton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Ringness House Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Citizens State Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

River’s Bend Doggie Drop Inn . . . . . . . . . . 14

Cobb Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Rawls Financial Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Corner Drug / Screendoor Inn . . . . . . . . . 29

Sauer & Associates Real Estate . . . . . . . . . 32

First Presbyterian Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Texas New Mexico Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

First United Methodist Church . . . . . . . . . . 33

Tri County Guttering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

FMG CPA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

United Cooperative Services . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Foothills Restaurant & Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Velkommen Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Hamilton Farmers Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Voorhies Outdoor Products . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Hamilton Healthcare System . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Zion United Church of Womack . . . . . . . . . 23

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