Fall 2020

FALL 2020

Mommas Do Let Their Babies Grow Up to Be

Cowboys

Sons of Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association World Champion Bull Rider, Ted Nuce, Wyatt and Westyn Nuce are working hard to reap the rewards of their father’s legacy of being a champion, both inside and outside the arena.

HONEYBEE HEALING

The latest buzz on bees and beekeeping sounds hopeful for cures of cancer and other medical problems.

FINDING HOME SWEET HOME Stephenville got a little airtime this past February when Chris and Haley Mitchell and their fouryear-old son, M.J., found their forever home while appearing on HGTV’s House Hunters.

Hometown Li v ing At Its Best

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Hometown Living At Its Best

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OUR COMMUNITY, OUR FIGHT. At Texas Health Stephenville, we know it’s a challenging time for our community. You’re doing all you can to protect yourself and your loved ones. And we’re doing what we can to protect and care for you.

We’ve implemented important protocols like proper screening steps and use of personal protective equipment to help keep our patients and caregivers safe. In addition, we’ve suspended visits to patients in the hospital, as well as elective and non-essential procedures and most outpatient services.

To help protect everyone in our community, staying home is critical. If possible, work from home. And limit outings to essential trips only. Continue to wash your hands frequently and practice social distancing at all times. But don’t forget to get some fresh air and exercise—and be sure to wave to your neighbors.

We’re all in this together, Stephenville. So let’s stay healthy and strong, for a healthier community.

Find comprehensive resources and information: TexasHealth.org/COVID-Response Questions about COVID-19?

Call our Coronavirus Consumer Hotline to speak with a nurse at 682-236-7601.

Doctors on the medical staffs practice independently and are not employees or agents of Texas Health hospitals or Texas Health Resources. © 2020

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Erath County Living

SAMPLE

Nurture n’ Nature staff is committed to providing a supportive environment where your child can thrive!

Leadership

Eleven years later, this is still their mission and it is being successfully implemented by a director who has been with the company since their doors opened. Tate Vernon started with Nurture N’ Nature when she was just 19 and has worked her way up to a leadership position. Her lead-by-example attitude, passion for children, and enthusiasm for making all feel welcome has truly been a blessing to the company.

Recently, Tate has welcomed the former nursery teacher, Adriana Juarez, into the supporting role of Facility Coordinator. Adriana has quickly become an essential part of the Nurture N’ Nature team. With her bilingual abilities, work ethic, and dedication to children that is demonstrated daily, the Nurture N’ Nature team is lucky to have her.

Our Promise

In Nurture N’ Natures promise to meet the needs of parents and children alike, they offer childcare for kids ages 6 weeks to 12 years with the extended hours of 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Nurture N’ Nature also does not follow regular school closures and is open most school holidays and bad weather days. This promise has become more evident than ever during the current pandemic.

With a multitude of new health and safety guidelines, Nurture N’ Nature never missed a beat and continued to welcome children with open arms while still providing a safe and clean environment. The Nurture N’ Nature staff says this would not have been possible without the help of their amazing parents who were more than willing to respect new safety protocols and guidelines.

With a team effort, the Nurture N’ Nature team, parents, and kids have been more than successful in navigating this time of so many unknowns. Even though a time of such uncertainty, Nurture N’ Nature has continued to keep their promise of meeting the needs of parents and kids alike while creating that “home away from home” sensation.

Our Start

If you are a parent, you know the struggle and stress finding the right childcare facility can be. Nurture N’ Nature was founded on the principles of combining the best parts of in-home childcare and commercial childcare to create a “home away from home” environment. The founders of Nurture N’ Nature are both women who were both Tarleton graduates, had begun working full-time jobs, raising kids, and pursuing their MBAs at the University of North Texas.

Their dream of creating this home away from home for all kids was put into motion in 2007 when the owners entered their business plan in a competition that was sponsored by UNT. With the support of the community and the STEDO Foundation, the owners won the competition and officially opened their doors in September of 2009. In 2009, Nurture N’ Nature began with a mission to provide childcare that truly meets the needs of children and their parents alike.

Open since September of 2009 6 weeks up to 12 years LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE

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Hometown Living At Its Best

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Contents

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MOMMAS DO LET THEIR BABIES GROW UP TO BE COWBOYS Sons of Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association World Champion Bull Rider, Ted Nuce, Wyatt and Westyn Nuce are working hard to reap the rewards of their father’s legacy of being a champion, both inside and outside the arena.

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HONEYBEE HEALING The latest buzz on bees and beekeeping sounds hopeful for cures of cancer and other medical problems.

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ROMANTIC SCAMS The average individual working and living in today’s society may feel that they could easily see a fraudster from a mile away.

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Bull Lion Wines won gold in three out of four fine wine categories in the People’s Choice competition.

If you think Erath County and its surrounding area is only about rodeos, cattle and dairy farms, take a closer look.

TEXANS’ CHOICE: BULL LION WINES

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THROUGH WHICH LENS DO YOU LOOK? There is no disputing the fact that this year has been unlike any other year we have experienced. It is through the darkness that light shines.

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THE PRINCESS AND THE BLUE-EYED FIDDLER: HAPPILY EVER AFTER Mike Echols, the blue-eyed fiddler, and Alecia Echols, the princess, share a love story to rival the best of Disney.

ERATH COUNTY AREA BUCKET LIST

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HOLLY JOLLY TIME OF YEAR Doing “all the things” leading up to Christmas day doesn’t always make you feel the holiday season. You and your loved ones can use this guide to find your “holly, jolly” spirit and really embrace the days leading up to December 25th.

Meet Your Hometown Doctors

Williams Evans, MD

Jill McAngus, MD

Matt Maruska, DO

Alana Waterford, MD

crosstimbersortho.com 254-965-2663 561 N. Graham | Stephenville, TX 76401

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Hometown Living At Its Best

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Do you ever find yourself just looking around at the life you have been blessed with and swell with pride at the accomplishments that surround you? Christine Newton has been doing just that, thanking God for placing her where she is today.

What did Jesus do? He was always feeding people. The Love Basket in Dublin is doing just that.

TOGETHER, ALL APART OF THIS

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FINDING HOME SWEET HOME Stephenville got a little airtime this past February when Chris and Haley Mitchell and their fouryear-old son, M.J., found their forever home while appearing on HGTV’s House Hunters show.

DOUBLING IN ON FEEDING DUBLIN

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ESCAPE TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS Are you looking for a reason to camp? Need some justification to escape to the great outdoors?

We've got you covered! Camping, with the appeal of disconnecting from the chaos of daily life and reconnecting with nature, is a popular activity that people have enjoyed for generations.

About the Cover Cover photo is of Wyatt and Westyn Nuce, sons of Ted Nuce, as they follow in their father’s footsteps to find success in riding bulls and search for glory in the rodeo world. Read more of their story on page 10.

84 HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS 52 C ross Timbers Fine Arts Council Events

92 CTFAC Manners Class

79 Miss Dublin Pageant

93 C ross Timbers Family Services and

82 Tour de Agua

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Stephenville "Go Purple" for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

To all of the frontline warriors

who are there when we need you …

!

We need you more than ever in these crazy days!

WE ARE GRATEFUL. 104 S Patrick St, Dublin, TX 76446 • (254) 445-1919 • dublintxedc.com

From the Publisher

H

ey Erath County friends, we are so glad to be back, and we hope everyone is well! As we are still facing a great deal of uncertainty, we face certainty that God is in control. With the great health crisis our entire world is facing with caution, let our fears be placed in the hands of God, while we wash our hands and cover our cough.

In this edition, you will read about Ted Nuce’s sons, Westyn and Wyatt, and how they are working to follow in their father’s footsteps. You will also read about the healing powers of honeybees and their honey; how it can not only heal wounds, but significant research is being done in the treatment of cancer as well.

We’ve included an Erath County Bucket List - if you think Erath County and its surrounding area is only about rodeos, cattle and dairy farms, take a closer look. Nestled in the country, hidden away from interstate highways, the area is filled with gems sure to delight any traveler looking for out-ofthe-way treasures.

We want to thank our advertisers for making this publication possible and free to the community! Help us express our gratitude by shopping local and visiting their establishments to pick up your complimentary copy.

This publication is about you! Please feel free to email us photos of your events to add to our Hometown Happenings or any stories you would like to read in the next issue. We would love to hear from you!

We give thanks to God for our many blessings and look forward to a better year to come!

Until the next edition, wishing you many blessings,

Justin and Hayley Six

Kyle and Halsey Clark

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 Erath County Living Magazine | RedFin Publishing

www.ErathCountyLiving.com

PUBLISHER

RedFin Publishing Justin & Hayley Six

Kyle & Halsey Clark

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Hayley Six

CREATIVE | DESIGN

GreenFox Marketing

CONTENT COORDINATOR Jennifer Cabbage

Jennifer.RedFin@Gmail.com

Marybelle Gomez Marybelle.RedFin@Gmail.com

PROOF READER

PHOTOGRAPHERS Baili Nettlesmith Photography

Hayley Six

COVER PHOTO

Cross B Photography Taylor Lynn Photography

Photo by Taylor Lynn Photography

SALES Bruce Racioppa Kyle Clark Justin Six Lori Stephens

CONTRIBUTING Lindsay Allen

WRITERS Meg Arlen

Peggy Purser Freeman Janette Halliday

Martha Helton

Rick Mauch Constance O'Bryan Rebecca Parvaresh

Heather Rothrock

CONTRIBUTORS

Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council

Cross Timbers Family Service

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Dublin Kids Across Cultures

Erath County Living© is published semi-annually by RedFin Publishing.

www.RedfinPublishing.com P.O. Box 1239 | Weatherford, TX 76086 (817) 618-9465 All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein.

Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice.

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Erath County Living

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• Virus/Trojan Removal • Fiber Optics • Internet Routers

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Erath County Living

Mommas Do Let Their Babies Grow Up to Be

Cowboys

By Janette Halliday Photos by Taylor Lynn Photography and provided by the Nuce Family

Sons of Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association World Champion Bull Rider, Ted Nuce, Wyatt and Westyn Nuce are working hard to reap the rewards of their father’s legacy of being a champion, both inside and outside the arena.

L

ike father, like sons. Yes, sons. Sons that are working to follow in their father’s footsteps, not only in a career path, but also in a life path.

Sons of Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association World Champion Bull Rider, Ted Nuce, Wyatt and Westyn Nuce are working hard to reap the rewards of their father’s legacy of being a champion, both inside and outside the arena.

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Wyatt (14) and Westyn (12) are young rodeo competitors who have big boots to fill following their father’s footsteps. However, there is no doubt they are not only determined, but strategic in achieving the same level of success as their famous father.

They will readily talk with you about the things they love and project an honest and mature mindset in discussing their plans for today and far into the future.

The Path to Success

Living on large acreage in the Gustine area that the family recently purchased, the boys have all the elements for success at their disposal. The Nuce family is building a custom barndominium complete with practice facilities and an arena that will help the boys achieve their goals.

Structure, routine and positive mental attitude build a recipe for success.

They workout, do their school lessons and train their ponies daily. They also have chickens, but Wyatt says Westyn is not a fan. “The only thing Westyn does with the chickens is eat them!”

The boys’ mom, Stephanie, serves as head cheerleader, videographer and their homeschool teacher. She integrates lessons that teach skills she believes are still valuable, such as cursive writing.

“She is the workforce. She does everything we don’t want to do,” commented Westyn, with a grin.

Stephanie explained her parental goals for her boys

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and why she works tirelessly to help them achieve them.

First, she wants the boys to have a relationship with Jesus. Secondly, she wants them to be men of integrity and love each other, and finally she wants them to cultivate a strong work ethic. She added that “if they are not doing that, then it’s a waste.” She admits while she fervently supports their love for rodeo, she is not a fan of the competition with each other that they sometimes take overboard.

Ted is a firm believer in utilizing any type of positive reinforcement for the mental game of rodeo, teaching the boys that success is more mental than anything. “If you aren’t strong mentally, you will fall apart,” said Ted. Ted ref lects on his successful experiences with positive mental coaching. He credits much of it to attending Gary Leffew’s bull riding schools where he was taught just what he is instilling in his young competitors to maintain positivity both inside and outside of the arena.

Wyatt and Westyn are each other’s biggest motivator, always on the back of the chutes to help each other. Like any other athlete, they review film, and discuss ways to improve on areas of their performance that need help. “I will let him (Westyn) think about it for a little bit. Sometimes I have to help him get over it,” said Wyatt.

“I hate losing. I hate the feeling and then have to go home and work hard on that area,” said Westyn.

They both display a very mature attitude when it

“It’s an adrenaline rush and the excitement of winning. I like to hear everyone cheer for me.” – Westyn Nuce

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comes to experiencing a less than stellar performance in the arena. “By the time you get all your stuff put in your rigging bag, you need to be over it,” commented Wyatt. “If you don’t do any good, you have to put that behind you. You have to be positive.”

Competitors of any sport often have rituals before the start of any competition. The Nuce boys always pray before each ride and have no superstitions. They also participate in a group prayer before the bull riding starts.

“We all help each other to keep everyone positive,” said Wyatt.

“Dad is the biggest inf luence. He pushes us to workout, even when we don’t feel like it. He really supports us.” The boys have a regular, three day-aweek workout schedule, focusing on kickboxing for 30 minutes and have their own gym equipment at the house.

Both boys have been taught nothing in life is free and they have to work hard to get where they want to be. They share financial responsibility for everything they do regarding rodeo. “We have to pay back some of our entry fees if we win,” said Westyn with a grin, acknowledging the reality of what can happen every time they enter. They also buy some of their own tack for the pony training business, but also buy some of their own ropes to compete in calf roping and team roping.

The Thrill of the Crowd

Both boys compete in both rough stock and timed events, claiming they excel in bull riding and saddle bronc riding. However, they always work calf roping and team roping. They enter American Junior Rodeo Association and Central Texas Youth Rodeo Association events.

Wyatt loves to calf rope and the boys are partners when they team rope. Wyatt is the heeler because as Westyn points out, “heading is easier.”

Wyatt didn’t compete in rough stock this year, focusing on roping. Westyn likes calf roping more

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than team roping. “I don’t need anyone. If I miss, it’s on me.” And with his eye on his future, he said he would prefer to do bull riding as a career.

“I like to hear everyone cheer for me,” admits Westyn.

Wyatt likes to show his enthusiasm for a good ride by throwing his arms up in the air in the arena when he is done. Ted requires the boys to wear protective vests and helmets for each rough stock performance.

Neither have experienced serious injuries thus far.

“Dad puts us on the right stuff. We ride in tennis shoes in practice and ride on the bucking dummy.”

Westyn was the 2019/2020 American Junior Rodeo Association champion steer rider. Wyatt’s biggest win has been winning the All-Around at the Lometa junior rodeo. Both boys have won several first places in both Texas and New Mexico competitions.

Mutton busting veterans, both boys have claimed a championship in dominating their sheep riding days which is often a stepping stone for young competitors to move up to more challenging rough stock events as they get older.

All the Wild Horses

The boys are very adept horse trainers with a reputation for specializing in training ponies.

Stephanie says the ponies are “‘wild as March hares’, usually not broke.” The boys split the money on selling the ponies with the goal of their pony sales going to savings for a truck purchase. They love the challenge of the pony training and would like to sell some as rodeo contract acts.”

“If you have a real passion, that’s the key driver that will make you get up everyday until you get the result you want.” – Ted Nuce The boys will be the first to tell you that rodeo is their first love, but they would do other things if rodeo wasn’t a focus. Westyn has played football and Wyatt has played soccer. They share a love for hunting and like to practice shooting. Wyatt gears his love for all things outdoors in f ly fishing. He loves to tie his own f lies and uses his skills in fishing for bass and perch in the pond on their property.

Westyn said Wyatt has a great voice, loves singing and dancing and can often be heard singing in the shower. Westyn adds drawing to his skills list with a passion for doing projects in 3D. Wyatt is the avid reader of the two, with favorites of science fiction, biography, and real history. Westyn readily admits math is his favorite over reading.

Stephanie has total confidence in what her sons will achieve. “They are gonna do a lot in life. They are blessings.”

“If you have a real passion, that’s the key driver that will make you get up every day until you get the result you want,” said Ted. ECL

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Honeybee Healing

By Meg Arlen Photos by Cross B Photography and provided by David Copeland

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The latest buzz on bees and beekeeping sounds hopeful for cures of cancer and other medical problems.

T

he news blared as I worked. “Scientists say honeybee venom destroys breast cancer cells.” With my interest hooked, I listened intently. “The research is in its early stages, but it's not the first time the compound in bee venom has been linked to successful cancer treatments.” I am a three-year survivor of breast cancer and I lost two sisters and a sister-in-law to it.

Although honey has been used throughout history as a healing agent for wounds and burns in Africa, most of the world thinks of it as a sweetener to make man-made medicines go down easier—a spoonful for a sore throat or a dollop in your tea.

Pilgrims brought the first honeybees to America in the 1600s. By the 1850s honeybees thrived across the nation and a hive of the best honey producers landed in Erath County. It was used in World War I soldiers’ wounds.

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“My neighbor here in Huckabay had an observation hive on his kitchen table. I loved to watch the bees when I visited him.” David added a personal note about the healing properties of honey.

“Two years ago my mother had a rare type of breast cancer that caused raw wounds on her breast. We used manuka honey to help ease the pain and, for a time, it helped heal the wounds, until the cancer mutated. Bee venom has been reported to help with arthritis pain, treating MS, and new research is being made in the area of treating cancerous tumors.

Pollen and honey from local sources are said to help with allergies.”

David has been keeping bees since 1988. “They’re such fascinating creatures. You can see God’s hand

While medicine searches for new and better treatments, the old gets pushed aside. Today, as modern antibiotic resistance erupts, honey-soaked gauze pads make an excellent dressing that not only keeps the dressing moist, it heals. Doctors and veterinarians in Europe, Austria, and the UK keep a jar handy. Some routinely use the golden treasure for open wound management. Honey kills harmful bacteria and clears infections. It contains numerous complex compounds, like f lavonoids and other polyphenols, peptides, organic acids, enzymes, vitamins, etc.

“Venom from honeybees rapidly destroyed triple-negative breast cancer, a type of cancer that has limited treatment options, and HER2-enriched breast cancer cells,” according to a study published in the journal npj Precision Oncology. “Using the venom from over 300 honeybees and bumblebees in England, Ireland and Perth, Western Australia, Dr. Ciara Duffy from the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and The University of Western Australia, tested the effect of the venom on the clinical subtypes of breast cancer, according to the news release.”

By now, we’re all rushing out to find a jar of honey. In researching bees in our area, I met David Copeland. David is a member of the Erath County Beekeeper Association. He shared his fascination with bees as a four- or five-year-old.

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Bees are fascinating in the way they work together to maintain their colony.

in their creation because of the intricacies of the bee world. Bees are fascinating in the way they work together to maintain their colony. They gather nectar and pollen to feed themselves. Bees gather propolis from resin in trees to help maintain hive health.

Nectar is made into honey. Bees make beeswax.

They communicate food sources by using different dances that tell the distance and direction of the nectar and pollen source. They maintain a constant temperature in the hive. They each have a role in the hive. Each role is important in maintaining a healthy hive.”

When neighbors complain about bees in their bushes, David can recall the most amazing benefits of bees. “The bees pollinate wildf lowers, f lowering plants, and trees in yards and pastures. They also pollinate gardens. Raw honey is an amazing product of the honeybee—it never spoils. It may crystalize, but that is a natural process.”

David keeps about 40 hives located within a 20mile radius from his home in Huckabay. “The f lavor and amount of honey vary each year due to the amount of rainfall and nectar sources. Our nectar sources come from wildf lowers, mesquite trees, other native shrubs/trees, and f lowers/shrubs

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planted in our area. I typically harvest honey in late July. I keep it in its raw, natural state as much as possible. Last year I was able to harvest over 100 gallons of honey due to the abundance of rainfall and nectar sources. This year, I was unable to harvest any due to the timing and lack of rainfall.”

The Erath County Beekeepers Association meets several times a year. Its focus, then and now, is about the honeybee, its survival, and management.

Members also attend programs all over Texas as presented by the Texas Bee Association (TBA), learning new techniques and discovering new research. Several TBA members spend a great deal of time in Austin seeking support for bee-related bills aimed at promoting pollinator health heard by the Agriculture and Livestock Committee.

David and other beekeepers understand the great need to preserve this master pollinator. Bees are most endangered by the use of pesticides and by the mowing of nectar sources such as wildf lowers along the highways.

“If people are interested in keeping honeybees, they should read about them and find a local beekeeper to observe before investing in a hive of bees. I believe Erath County is a great place to raise bees because it produces great tasting honey. Last year was a remarkable year for nectar sources. Flowers bloomed for months. The honey was exceptional, some of the best honey I had ever tasted. I entered my honey in the 9th Annual Black Jar International Honey Contest that is associated with the Center for Honeybee Research in Ashville, North Carolina. I’m happy to say that Erath County

Honeybees bring a sweetness to our life yet undiscovered.

honeybees won the Western division of the USA. Their honey was rated in the top ten of the world.”

Hawkeyes Honey is available at the Stephenville Farmer’s Market in on the first Saturday or Health Focus or visit Hawkeyes Honey on Facebook.

The latest buzz on bees and beekeeping sounds hopeful for cures of cancer and other medical problems. Honeybees bring a sweetness to our life yet undiscovered. ECL

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DUBLIN I.S.D. EVERY CHILD. EVERY MINUTE. EVERY DAY. “ We believe a strong community builds a strong school. And, a strong school builds a strong community.”

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2 0 1 9 Na t io n a l Blu e R ib b o n Sc h o o l

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H i gh es t A c a d em ic Sc o r es in E ra t h Count y

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C o m m u n it y Se rv ic e O ri en t ed

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D ed ic a t ed G T P ro g ra m /C la s s es

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Stat e & National Qua lifi fie e rs

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Int ernationa l FPS Qua lifi fie e rs

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M u lt ic u lt u ra l L ea rn in g E n vi ro n m en t

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T u it io n A s s is t ed C o l le ge C r ed it & A s s o c ia t es D eg r ee P r o g ra m s

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St a t e o f t h e A rt A t h let ic F a c i lit i es

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M en t o r in g P ro g ra m s

Committed to Academic Excellence

Dublin Elementary is one of 27 schools in Texas, 362 in the nation and the only school in Erath County to be recognized as an exemplary high performance school receiving the prestigious U.S. Department of Education 2019 National Blue Ribbon.

"We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives,” said Nancy DeVos, United States Secretary of Education, in a video message to the honorees. “As a National Blue Ribbon School, your school demonstrates what is possible when committed educators hold all students and staff to high standards and create vibrant, innovative cultures of teaching and learning."

DUBLIN I.S.D. Administration 420 N. Post Oak, Dublin, Texas 76446 (254) 445-3341 DublinISD.us

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Romantic SCAMS

By Rebecca Parvaresh

The average individual working and living in today’s society may feel that they could easily see a fraudster from a mile away.

T

he average individual working and living in today’s society may feel that they could easily see a fraudster or scammer from a mile away. This, according to experts, is exactly the attitude financial fraudsters and social media scammers hope for in the individuals they contact. Just as we all learned to pivot our lives, social engagements, and working lives this year, so have those who are working hard to defraud you of the money you work so hard to keep.

“Fraudsters are very good at using current circumstances to their advantage,” explains Denise Owens, Senior Vice President and Fraud Manager for PlainsCapital Bank. “The pandemic created an opportunity for them to target people who are isolated away from family and friends, reaching out for some sort of contact from others. The thing is, these fraudsters are very good at what they do. This is their job, to defraud you of your money.”

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Fraudsters are very good at using current circumstances to their advantage.

With the rise in individuals of all ages being sequestered in their homes or unable to be out in their normal social circles, PlainsCapital Bank and other banks are seeing a rise in romance related scams, lottery scams, and work from home opportunity scams. The scene of this year is set for people to have their guards down as they reach out on new social platforms seeking connection with others.

“I think unfortunately with the circumstances we have in 2020, people need to be more on guard than ever,” Owens says. “Really look into any request or offer before you act. Fraudsters look for people who are desperate-people who don’t think but just react. Always take a step back and look into any situation and do your due diligence.”

Owens and others in the banking community have seen a rise of 30-40% in the category of romance scams.

Individuals are being contacted through any platform that has a messaging function. Romance related scams are not unique to dating websites but have now made their way into online gaming communities, professional websites for job seekers, and all popular social media platforms. If there is an opportunity to send a private message through the application, then there is an open opportunity for a scammer to make their plea.

“If you are in contact with someone who wants your relationship to move along very quickly—like getting engaged within a matter of weeks—that is a big red flag,”

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Owens cautions. “Additionally, a fraudster will ask their target to keep their relationship confidential, often away from family and friends. I’m always amazed at how patient fraudsters are as they groom their targets for weeks and months before ever asking for any money. The victim really believes they know this person before the initial request for funds is ever made.”

The rise in romance scams adds a new challenge for banks across the country. Many individuals who find themselves in the middle of a romance scam don’t want to believe that the relationship was fraudulent. The emotions attached to this particular type of scam makes them harder to investigate if they are reported at all.

“Previously, a fraudster would send a check to their target asking them to deposit and forward the funds to them,” Owens says. “Now, during the pandemic, it could be a check, a fraudulent wire transfer, or unemployment benefits from another state obtained through fraud. The victim doesn’t understand that the money they obtained was part of fraudulent activity and that they can be liable for any consequences. They may be prosecuted or sued for the loss of funds. People need to remember that they are responsible for any transactions within their account. If they make a fraudulent deposit for a third party and that charges back, they will be responsible for those funds.”

As we all know, a bank, federal office, law enforcement agency, or financial institution will never contact you and ask for your online banking credentials or passwords.

They will not ask for personal credentials like your social security number or pin numbers. Owens cautions everyone, “You shouldn’t rely on caller ID alone to know who you are speaking to. Fraudsters can spoof a number and make the caller ID appear to be from the bank. The bank will never call you asking for your online account login information or your pin number. If you are asked any of those questions, you need to hang up and call your local branch to verify the request. If it was a bank representative, you can always get that person back on the line.”

Fraudsters who impersonate a third party like law enforcement are also on the rise. Owens explains, “People could receive a spoofed phone call from a fraudster claiming to be with the police, a court official, or a utility company. The fraudster will ask their target to purchase gift cards as a form of payment. These payments could be used to avoid being arrested or having a warrant issued for their arrest. Once the information on the back of

With the circumstances we have in 2020, people need to be more on guard than ever. the gift card is provided, the money is gone. You should never buy gift cards to provide funds to an unknown individual.”

As people continue to remain isolated or search for new employment this year, many experts in the field like Owens, advise that everyone need to continue to stay vigilant in protecting their assets. “I think during the pandemic, people have just let their guard down.

Nearly everyone is isolated and many people are working remotely, so it’s just a different environment. They aren’t taking the same precautions they would have six months ago. While we’ve seen these scams for years, there’s always a new twist.”

If you feel that you have been subjected to a fraudulent financial endeavor, contact your local bank immediately.

PlainsCapital has a wealth of information concerning common fraud scams and ways to contact their fraud department on their website at https://www.plainscapital. com/fraud-resource-center/. ECL

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Erath County Living

' s n a x Te e Choic

Bull Lion Wines

by Peggy Purser Freeman Photos by Baili Nettleship Photography

Bull Lion Wines won gold in three out of four fine wine categories in the People’s Choice competition.

I

n the Chalk Mountain valley, rooted in the rocky soil of Bull Lion Ranch, the Tordiglione family grows more than grapes. They grow their family legacy. Owner Chuck Tordiglione, his wife and children produce award-winning wine in the tradition of their Italian ancestors.

“I like to say our family migrated from Italy to Boston and then to Texas,” Chuck explained. “Our children were raised in Fort Worth and now they all work in the family business. Our family has owned Bull Lion Ranch for over twenty years. It’s rewarding to be a grape farmer, to go through the entire two-year aging process in making wine, and then to see our customers’ expressions when they try our wines. Our reward is knowing we can build

“Our reward is knowing we can build a family business by simply staying true to our heritage and producing the same wines our family has been making for over one hundred years.”

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a family business by simply staying true to our heritage and producing the same wines our family has been making for over one hundred years.”

People often ask why the Tordigliones didn’t plant their vines in the richer black soils on the ranch, or why not grow the vines in sandy soils like many other Texas vineyards? His response is, “The finest wines in Italy are grown on rocky mountain slopes. We planted on that part of our ranch that has those similar characteristics.”

The vineyard stretches over seven-and-a-half acres with plans to double the size next year. “We planted the vineyard in the rocky soils of our ranch for good reason.

The high mineral content found in rocky soils produces bold wines with big character.”

The oldest daughter, Alex, oversees all wine shop locations, festivals and promotions. Daughter Olivia manages the Glen Rose shop. Chuck’s wife Cyndi takes care of the account books and social networking.

Winemaker Patrick "Giovanni" Johnson is considered a legend in Texas for making fine wines. Pat learned the art of winemaking at Ernest & Julio Gallo Company and has been making Texas wine since 1990. “Our vineyard produces ninety percent of the grapes for our wines, and we outsource the remaining ten percent from other Texas growers,” Patrick said. “We are one-hundred percent Texas wines, and we would have it no other way.”

Tony Tordiglione, Chuck’s son, manages the vineyard and is the assistant winemaker. “We planted our vineyard in 2008 and have seven different varieties of grapes,” Tony explained. “Our varieties include Sangiovese, Montepulciano, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc, Malbec and Tempranillo. Out of our seven vari-

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eties, we currently produce sixteen red and white wines.

Clients may choose from any of our blends.”

Recognized as a 100% Texas-made local, family wine, Bull Lion Ranch brand has been invited to all the major wine festivals in the state. As part of the Cross Timbers Wine Trail (CTWT), an organization of all wineries and vineyards in the Cross Timbers ecoregion, Bull Lion Wines takes part in the CTWT wine events throughout the year. This includes the Go Texan Wine Food & Art Festival at Panther Island, Fort Worth—the largest ALL Texas Wine festival in the state, with thirty North Texas wineries. Bull Lion Wines will also be highlighted at the Cross Timbers Wine Trail Symposium & Wine Competition in Granbury, currently planned for November 20-21, 2020. Both events will have wine tasting, food, and art, including vineyard growing and winemaking classes for the public.

“Our wines are currently served in some of the top restaurants and used by top chefs in Fort Worth—chefs like Jon Bonnell of Bonnell's Fine Texas Cuisine and Tim Love of Lonesome Dove,” Alex explained. “Bull Lion Wines are in the Hearsay Wine Shop in Stephenville, at The Pecan Street Bottle Shop in Hico, and also in Central Market and H-E-B in Fort Worth, Hudson Oaks, and Burleson.

Locations include: The Bull Lion Ranch & Vineyards in Chalk Mountain, located between Glen Rose and Stephenville. This location has that ranch appeal, where you can enjoy wine while soaking in the countryside, the cattle grazing and paint horses that love attention. The Bull Lion Ranch Wine Shop on the historic square in

Glen Rose offers a small-town friendly atmosphere and an art gallery with the original Robert Summers ninefoot statue of John Wayne. The Bull Lion Ranch Wine Shop & Italian Market brings a bit of a Boston Cheers or Rat Pack atmosphere to Granbury’s Historic Square. All locations have wine bars, serve salami, cheese boards and desserts, and have weekly live entertainment.

“Special events at the ranch include our WineStock Concert in July, HalloWine in October and our Farmers Market and Art Shows throughout the year.” The Bull Lion Ranch, as well as many other Texas wineries, has

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“If you have not tried our wines, we invite you to come out to one of our locations to kick back, relax and enjoy.” entered many nationwide competitions that include wines from Europe and California, and we continue to walk away with the top medals in many Fine Wine categories.

“I believe that Texas is now producing wine that is every bit as good as European and California wines.” Chuck explained the need to support Texas wines. “This being said, our fellow Texans need to support Texas agriculture and drink Texas wines. I would like to see our Texas restaurant owners and chefs show more support for our Texas agriculture.

I have not had a California wine in many years, and for good reason. I am a Texas grape farmer and I support Texas agriculture. I find it hard to believe when I go into a restaurant that has no Texas wine on the menu, or 90% California wines. I usually ask why they do not carry Texas wines, and if they do not respond well I usually do not return. Those restaurants will make changes eventually if their patrons speak up and request Texas wine. I believe that fine Texas wine arrived a long time ago, and we need our wine lovers to continue to GoTexan and support Texas agriculture. Thank you to those who continue to support and push our local restaurants for Texas wines.”

Visitors to the winery and its various locations, often become wine club members once they try Bull Lion Wines and find their favorites. Out of the sixteen different varieties, most are award-winning wines. Texianti is the Tordiglione family's Old-World Italian Chianti blend that has won the Gold Medal three straight years at the People's Choice Awards in Grapevine. Montepulciano is a two-years-straight Gold Medal winner, and Malbec won gold in its first year in the competition. In the 2019 People's Choice Competition, Bull Lion Wines won gold in three out of four fine wine categories.

“We consider it the highest honor when the people vote us as their favorite, and the Grapevine event is the largest Texas wine competition in the state,” Chuck added. “Our wines have won medals in every competition in Texas, and as far away as New York.

If you have not tried our wines, we invite you to come out to one of our locations to kick back, relax and enjoy. Vino Amore!” ECL

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Through Which Lens Do You Look?

By Heather Rothrock

There is no disputing the fact that this year has been unlike any other year we have experienced. It is through the darkness that light shines.

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"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him." - James 1:12

T

here is no disputing the fact that this year has been unlike any other year we have experienced. I'm not going to deny the fact that 2020 has upended some people's lives and that many are struggling. Feeling angry, sad, anxious, or guilty during hard days is entirely normal. While we shouldn't ignore those feelings, we can't get stuck in those feelings either. History has repeatedly shown us that during our most difficult times, people are often at their best. It is through the darkness that light shines.

Much of what life has thrown at us in recent months is beyond our control. What's the upside here? We can control our thoughts and how we choose to respond to life as we see it, and life as we know it! Your thoughts belong to you, mine to me, and what we have in common is that we can directly impact our thoughts by deciding what direction we will let them go. I'm here to tell you that the easy thing is to sit around and complain, gripe about the unfair hand we have been dealt, and talk about how things should be.

"Would" and "should" are two words you can remove from your vocabulary immediately! It's wasted time thinking about how you feel life should be. What "should be" and what "could be" isn't reality. "What if" is not reality either. What if this had happened? What if that had happened? None of this way of thinking is in the reality of what life is, and nothing good comes from focusing time and energy on that line of thought.

"I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart!

I have overcome the world."

- John 16:33 Let's all close our eyes and take a collective deep breath.

Re-center and reset our thought process. Turn off the "what about me" switch in your brain and lift your head up. Look up and around you. It's time for the healing of 2020 and for growth to begin. We psychologically grow because of difficult times. My friends, this process starts with you and me.

"Into each life, some rain must fall."

- Ella Fitzgerald It's not easy, but I promise you that the work is worth it. Start small and start today. The illusion has been that we have control, which has been at the core of our anxiety. When we have faith in God's plan for us, and we trust without a doubt in Him, we, in essence, release the need to control things. I don't know about you, but God has shown me time and again that He is the one in charge. So for today, I choose to control my thoughts and appreciate life for what it is right now, not what I feel that it should be.

"The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another."

- William James What will you do? How will you choose to approach your day? Choose wisely as that single decision impacts anyone around you. Trust. God has us in His hand. He always has. He always will. Just breathe.

"Our anxiety does not come from thinking about the future, but from wanting to control it."

- Kahlil Gibran

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The Princess and the Blue-Eyed Fiddler:

Happy-Ever-After

By Peggy Purser Freeman Photos provided by the Echols Family

Mike Echols, the blue-eyed fiddler, and Alecia Echols, the princess, share a love story to rival the best of Disney.

M

ike Echols, the blue-eyed fiddler, and Alecia Echols, the princess, share a love story to rival the best of Disney. Mike’s journey with the fiddle began at the age of three. He would run into his grandparents’ house yelling, “Fe fe, fe fe!” According to Mike, his Papa Wilson not only taught him to play the fiddle but taught him how to love God, family, and music.

Alecia, an amazing vocalist with beautiful red hair and electric blue eyes, began her career at Granbury Live while still in high school. And, as all love stories go—they lived happily-ever-after.

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“The day Mike auditioned at Granbury Live, I thought… ‘another average fiddle player.’” Alecia shared how she felt when she first met her husband. “I was wrong! The minute we shook hands, sparks flew. But I was only 18 and I had a boyfriend from high school.

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Erath County Living

One night the owner of Granbury Live, Tom McRea, was watching Mike and me practice the song, Faded Love.

He said, ‘Princess, (he always called me that) you’re an actress. Get up there and act like you’re in love with him.’

Act? I didn’t have to act. I walked closer. Tom pushed further. ‘No, rub shoulders. Act like you loooooove him.’”

Mike tells their love story a little differently. “The year before I auditioned for Granbury Live, my family attended the Christmas show. That was the night I first saw Alecia.”

Mike stopped at this point in the interview. He turned his blue eyes toward Alecia and spoke to her as if no one else existed.

“When you stepped out in the spotlight and sang O’ Holy Night, butterflies hit my stomach. I knew I loved you. You were the girl God had planned for me to marry.”

Mike eventually convinced Alecia to forget the high school boyfriend, and she and Mike married. The sparks still fly every time Mike and Alecia perform. Fifteen years later the Blue-Eyed Fiddler and the Princess have two wonderful children. However, happy-ever-after is always difficult, especially when a couple has children, careers in

entertainment, ministries, and family obligations. How has happy-ever-after lasted for this Stephenville couple?

How do they juggle their music careers, family, and their faith?

Mike Echols can fiddle the daylights out of crowd favorites like The Orange Blossom Special and The Devil Went Down to Georgia. Many people have tried to convince him to take his talent to Nashville, but Mike says, “God has blessed me with this beautiful family to raise and care for, and Stephenville offers a wonderful place to raise a family.”

Alecia’s vocals and Mike’s fiddle have thrilled thousands with their exceptional talent and they both use their gifts to give God the glory. “I think when God gives you a talent (gift) it’s so very important to use that gift often,” Alecia explained. “We both stay involved in our church.”

Mike is the Media Director at First Baptist Church in Stephenville, and he also plays drums or the fiddle almost every Sunday. Mike stressed a good foundation for any happy-ever-after. “Alecia and I waited five years before we had children and I believe that it was such a precious time to grow in our relationship, learn about each other, and just have fun before we took on parenthood together.

It helped us build a strong foundation.”

Alecia sings in the choir and with the Praise Team.

“It’s important to us to share our gifts and to have our children raised in the church. They need to see their parents give the extra time to volunteer, to be at church, and give their time to bless others. Learning to appreciate one another is important in a marriage,” Alecia said. “As we have gone through highs and lows, we have become stronger as a team. I feel we could face anything together.

You have to be each other’s cheerleaders in this life. I’m his number one fan, and he’s mine.”

"We enjoy getting away to make beautiful music. It feels like ‘Mom and Dad sneaking away on a date!’”

Mike added, “Performing as a team gives us a chance to each do what we love, together. It makes it more special and fun. Granted, we don’t entertain as often as we did before children. However, now we devote extra time to our kids.”

“It’s an absolute pleasure to work with my husband,” Alecia said. “Mike has always been such a great support system for me. Most of our gigs are together and we definitely enjoy getting away to make beautiful music. It also feels like ‘Mom and Dad sneaking away on a date!’ But really, we’re out doing a job. It’s funny how it works out that way.”

Even with seven-year-old Audrey and three-year-old Grayson, Mike and Alecia still entertain for many events in and around the area and they juggle that schedule with their kids.

“Our kids have helped bring back our youthfulness,” Mike said. “We get a chance to relive our younger days through them—to see them get excited over things and

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see the world through their eyes. They help us to focus on the good side of life.”

“Our children have blessed us more than they’ll ever know. Sometimes, when I hug my kids when they’re crying, I think...‘I probably needed that hug more than they did.’ Because of them, life makes sense. We now have a whole new reason to wake up every day.”

Mike and Alecia enjoy music time at home, trying new tunes, and practicing. “Now, our music time at home usually ends up as a family jam session. Our kids love music! Our daughter, Audrey, has always been passionate about singing and is already such a little performer. Our son loves to play his guitar or his sister’s pink fiddle. After he sees his daddy play on Sundays, he even jumps on the drums. He also grabs the mic after church and sings into it.”

In thirteen years of marriage, Mike and Alecia have been through hard times.

“As parents,” Alecia said, “the only thing we ever deal with is wishing at least one of us was home with the kids.

But, at this stage in their young lives, we treasure the time to get away and spend that time together. Our careers are important enough for us to make it happen. Sometimes

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Erath County Living

"Faith and family will always be the glue that keeps the Echols family strong and together."

we take the kids out with us to a gig or plan a great family weekend to make up for leaving them.”

Extended family is important in a marriage. “For us, 2015 was a difficult year,” Alecia shared. “We have always been so close to our families. Mike’s grandparents both passed away that year. We lost his dad, Arley, when the Lord took him in his sleep. We were heartbroken. All the while, Mike’s mother, Cathy, fought a return of cancer.

After his dad died, then his grandpa - who taught Mike to fiddle, we found out we were expecting our second child and not even four weeks later, I went through a devastating miscarriage. It was our faith in God and His plan for our lives that gave us something to hold onto. We have this beautiful family and support system in this special small town of Stephenville that have rallied around us through the bad times.”

Entertaining, plus Alecia’s small business, Red’s Cookie Creations, and Mike’s job all demand time.

Happy-ever-after doesn’t just happen. It requires work, commitment, and something strong to hold it together.

Faith and family will always be the glue that keeps the Echols family strong and together. ECL

“You were the girl God had planned for me to marry.”

– Mike Echols

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CROSS TIMBERS FINE ARTS CENTER EVENTS Photos provided by Cross Timbers Fine Arts Center

“Young at Art: A Selection of Caldecott Book Illustrations exhibit” is a nationally, travelling exhibit CTFAC was able to host this summer in Stephenville. It has been all over the country. The exhibit contains Caldecott Award winning books with their original illustrations, some dating back to 1929.

We held several events in conjunction with the Exhibit: “CTFAC Family Fun Day” with art activities based on Caldecott books.

CTFAC also hosted “Storytime” with Caldecott Books. Photo is of TSU First Lady, Kindall Hurley reading the book “Snowflake Bentley” to the children. Photo taken by Kurt Mogonye, TSU. CTFAC partnered with the CCPRA to celebrate our Rodeo Heritage with “Hats Off to the Rodeo”, an exhibit of rodeo memorabilia and western heritage art.

The “Hats Off to the Rodeo” reception was Thurs., 9/24.

In June, CTFAC honored Stephanie Peacock Beach as the recipient of “CTFAC Patron of the Year” award for outstanding work and dedication to the arts here in Stephenville.

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Erath County Area

Bucket List

By Rick Mauch

If you think Erath County and its surrounding area is only about rodeos, cattle and dairy farms, take a closer look.

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I

f you think Erath County and its surrounding area is only about rodeos, cattle and dairy farms, take a closer look. Nestled in the country, hidden away from interstate highways, the area is filled with gems sure to delight any traveler looking for out-of-theway treasures.

To simply pass through would be a shame. Take some time to stop, perhaps even spend a few days, and take in a few items that must not be missed if your travels take you the area.

Heck, even if the area wasn't originally on your destination route, take a detour and make a few memories:

Bluff Dale Bridge

This historic cable-stayed bridge was built in 1891 and spans 225 feet across the Paluxy River. It was originally constructed across the river on a dirt road that became Texas State Highway 10, which is now U.S. Route 377.

In 1933, a new bridge was built to handle the increasing traffic on U.S. 377, and the original bridge was relocated 1.5 miles upstream. The bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

GREENWODD SALOON, BLUFF DALE

The epitome of a good ol' fashioned watering hole.

A rattle trap of an old building, don't be fooled by its exterior as this place is always rocking on the weekends, which is when it is open. Enjoy a beverage (beer, wine and sodas only) and listen to some great music from local musicians. There's also a cool outside yard area with room for dancing.

208 N. Greenwood, Bluff Dale.

254-728-3735 Hours: Friday, 5 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, noon-1 a.m.; Sunday, noon-9 p.m.

HIDEAWAY RANCH & RETREAT, BLUFF DALE

For a small community, Bluff Dale has a lot to offer, including this secluded, romantic retreat nestled in the beautiful North Central Texas Hill Country. It features cabins nestled among the oaks on 155 acres, specializing in seclusion, tranquility and privacy. Activities on the property include hiking, fishing and swimming, stargazing, playground, animal watching,and horseback riding. Roaming the property are Texas longhorns, paint horses, donkeys, llamas and poultry.

1022 Private Rd. 1250, Bluff Dale 254-823-6606 https://www.thehideawayranch.com/

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JAKE & DOROTHY'S CAFE, STEPHENVILLE

No trip through Stephenville would be complete without a meal at the city's most famous dining spot.

Since 1948 they have been serving homemade meals that range from a good ol' home-cooked breakfast worth getting up early for to some of the best - and largest chicken-fried steaks to be found anywhere. Save room for pie, it’s worth driving many miles out of the way for.

406 E. Washington St., Stephenville 254-965-5211 Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 5:30 a.m.-midnight; Friday and Saturday, 5:30 a.m.-2 a.m.

COWBOY CAPITAL OF THE WORLD PRCA RODEO, STEPHENVILLE

Cowboy Capital of the World PRCA Rodeo, Stephenville - This popular stop on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Associaton tour annually brings thousands of rodeo fans to the stands, along with hundreds of rodeo athletes from all across the world.

Stephenville has won and been nominated for many prestigious awards for its rodeo connections. This year more than 40 million viewers will have access to the event via the Cowboy Channel. Activities will actually run for more than a week and will include activities such as a Cowboy Capital/Lonestar Barbecue Society BBQ Cook-Off, Rodeo Queen Contest, Western Art Reception, parade, and more.

CHICKEN HOUSE FLEA MARKET

Everyone has time for a good bargain, and they can be found here. Haggling is part of the vocabulary, and the idea is everyone leaves the negotiations a little happier, buyer and seller.

8080 U.S. Hwy. 377, Dublin 254-968-0888 Hours: Second and fourth weekend of each month, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

odeo at Lone Star Arena, other connected events at R various sites around Stephenville. https://www.cowboycapitalprcarodeo.com/

STEPHENVILLE HISTORICAL HOUSE MUSEUM

A collection of turn-of-the-century homes and buildings designed to take visitors back in time, providing both a historical and education view of Erath County and the Cross Timbers region. The venue is also available for a variety of special events.

525 E. Washington St., Stephenville 254-965-5880 info@shhm.org https://shhm.org/ Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

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HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS, STEPHENVILLE

One of the city's most popular events, sponsored by the Stephenville Parks and Recreation Department and the Chamber of Commerce, includes activities such as official lighting of the Christmas tree, pictures with Santa (and letters, of course), carriage and hay rides, carolers and choirs, dance and tumbling performances, cookie decorating, Christmas crafts and games, holiday gift vendors and more.

Downtown Stephenville 254-968-5313 https://www.stephenvilletexas.org/holly-jolly-christmas Hours: 6-9 p.m., December 14

BILLY THE KID MUSEUM, HICO

The collections and events here are historical, educational, and challenging to one's imagination. The museum features temporary exhibitions and events, along with a permanent collection. Legend has it that ruthless gunfighter Billy the Kid escaped into the identity of Brushy Bill Roberts and lived out his remaining days in Hico.

114 Pecan St., Hico 254-796-2523 billythekidmuseum@gmail.com Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

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SILOVILLE CLIMBING GYM, HICO

This inside/outside gym is actually an old grain silo.

It features different routes to climb to get to the top, with a rappell to descend from the top of the silos, which is 66 ft. There is also an outside obstacle yard with a variety of different challenging things to climb on and swing from.

A waiver must be signed by the parents of all climbers under age 18.

455 Elm St., Hico 254-340-0737 Siloville2015@yahoo.com http://www.siloville.com/ Hours: Saturday, 1-5 p.m., or by appointment.

DUBLIN BOTTLING WORKS

Formerly known as the home of Dublin Dr Pepper (don't ask about that, sore spot with locals), this familyowned plant has been bottling sodas made with pure cane sugar for more than 120 years and is the oldest soda bottling facility in Texas. It is also home to W.P. Kloster Museum, featuring the story of W.P. Kloster, "Mr. Dr Pepper" and one of the world’s largest collections of classic soda memorabilia.

221 Patrick St., Dublin 254-445-3939 http://www.dublinbottlingworks.com/ Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Tours begin at 10:15 a.m. and run every 45 minutes until final tour at 4:15 p.m.

Veldhuizen CHEESE SHOPPE, DUBLIN

Quite simply, some of the best cheese to be found is on this out-of-the-way farm. It's a bit of a drive into the country, but well worth it. The vast variety of cheeses includes raw milk, cave-aged, and artisan, and everyone leaves having discovered their favorite. Tours are also available.

W.K. GORDON CENTER FOR INDUSTRIAL HISTORY OF TEXAS, MINGUS

A part of the Tarleton State University system, the center actively collects materials pertaining to the economic, political, and social history of Thurber and other centers of industrial development. It's a bit off the path for those taking in Erath and surrounding area, but worthy of the detour. Thurber was once one of the most important mine sites in Texas and a worldwide giant in production of coal, oil and brick. The entire town - every nail, shingle, and doorknob - was owned by the Texas and Pacific Coal Company. Residents lived in company houses, shopped at company stores, drank at company saloons, attended company schools, and worshipped in company-owned church buildings. At one time it was the third-largest town in Texas, but now it is more of a ghost town with a population of five.

65258 Interstate 20, Mingus 254-968-1886 https://www.tarleton.edu/gordoncenter/ Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

3364 County Rd. 299, Dublin 254-968-3098 https://www.veldhuizencheese.com/ Hours: Cheese making tours, Thursday, noon; farm tours, Saturday, 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Shop hours Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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682-936-6846 | taylorlynnphotography2.0@gmail.com taylorlynnphotography74.mypixieset.com

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Time of Year

By Lindsay L. Allen

Doing “all the things” leading up to Christmas day doesn’t always make you feel the holiday season. You and your loved ones can use this guide to find your “holly, jolly” spirit and really embrace the days leading up to December 25th.

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ddressing your Christmas cards, shopping the store sales, attending the work parties and staying up late to wrap gifts let you know it’s the holiday season, but they don’t always make you feel the holiday season. In the hustle and bustle and the busy calendar that comes with the season, it’s often easy to find yourself lost in getting it all done and never really stopping to enjoy and reflect. This Christmas year can be different. You and your loved ones can use the guide that follows to find your “holly, jolly” spirit and really embrace the days leading up to December 25.

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1. Movie Night

Start the season by gift wrapping all your holiday themed DVDs and randomly picking one to watch as a family or a group. Take it up a notch by making the official dress code pjs and offering warm and yummy snacks.

2. Cookie Exchange

Look online for the rules and guidelines for hosting a cookie exchange, where friends and family come over with a couple dozen homemade cookies and spend the evening eating half of the offerings. Then at the end of the night, everyone goes around the table and takes cookies home from the remaining half. It’s a great way to have fun and enjoy a variety of Christmas cookies!

3. Holiday Scent

6. Give

The season is all about giving. Selecting and shopping for an Angel from the trees is one way to find an attitude of thankfulness and extend the Christmas spirit to another family. Another idea is to decorate the outdoor seating areas of nursing homes with tinsel, garland and ornaments for the residents to enjoy from their windows or when they go outside.

7. Christmas Themed Charades

A quick Internet search will lead you to many Christmas themed charade options you can print and add to a bowl. Take turns drawing from the bowl and acting out the phrase or item (i.e. singing carols, coming down a chimney and decorating cookies).

This season keep a pot on the stove with apple juice and cinnamon or cinnamon sticks and orange peels. Keeping it low and letting it simmer each day will bring the comfort and peace you need to feel that holiday spirit!

8. Read

4. Christmas Lights

9. Craft

5. Homemade Hot Chocolate

10. Goals

Is it even the holidays if you don’t go see lights? This year, load up in your pjs with a thermos of hot chocolate and invite the neighbors to drive around with you as you go from neighborhood to neighborhood to take them all in.

It doesn’t take much (including labor) to make the creamiest and tastiest hot chocolate this season. Using your crockpot, mix heavy whipping cream (1.5 cups), sweetened condensed milk (14 oz.), milk (6 cups), vanilla (1 tsp.), and milk chocolate chips (2 cups) and let it warm up for two hours before serving. Don’t forget to top with marshmallows!

There are a number of children’s books that all ages can enjoy about the Christmas season, check out your local bookstore or library and cozy up with a good book.

A beautiful wreath hanging on the door is a wonderful way to feel the spirit this season. Look on DIY sites and visit the crafting store to gather your materials and begin making your piece of art!

Use this time to pause and thoughtfully write down your goals for 2021. Waiting till the new year can lead to rushed decisions and failed attempts. Setting the goals ahead of time will allow you to mentally prepare too for the year ahead.

11. Christmas Carols

Spend the evening playing carols verses current Christmas songs or find a local church or theater that is offering a Christmas show to help you and your family find the spirit through song.

12. Decorate

You can’t let this season pass you by without decorating the house. Maybe this year you decide on a new area or décor theme for the season. Is it an extra Christmas tree in kitchen, an angel collection or the start of a nutcracker display?

13. Accessorize

Paint your nails or get them done with a holiday theme— look online for ideas like Elf, winter wonderland, gingerbread and more themed nails!

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20. Scents and Flavors

It’s too fun to skip the pine tree scented candles, the peppermint flavored chocolates and ice creams and candy cane scented chapsticks this time of year. Stock up on these seasonal items so you can enjoy them long after the season has ended.

21. Care Packages

Your delivery men are working long hours this season to help Santa deliver all his gifts. Leave a box near your mailbox or door with bottled water and snacks that the delivery men can enjoy.

22. Table Conversations

Print out questions to leave at each table setting on Christmas morning to help spark conversation. Example questions include: what is the best/worst gift you ever received, favorite holiday tradition or food, do you prefer a sandy Christmas or white Christmas, etc.

23. Fireplace

14. Christmas Around the World

Take the time to select a country and study how they celebrate this season and what traditions or food they have in place.

Even if you don’t have a fireplace, the internet allows you to stream the image of a burning fire that crackles and pops.

Enjoy a night cuddled up by the fire and looking at your Christmas tree.

15. Cookie Decorating

24. Reindeer Food

A can of frosting, food coloring and a tube of sugar cookies can bring a night of fun for all. Enhance the night by having a contest with the best-decorated cookie taking home a prize!

16. History

The legends and story behind the candy cane are worth reading about. Check it out and grab a candy cane to enjoy while you do!

A mix of cheerios, pretzels and graham crackers is a delicious snack for Santa’s reindeers! Even if your children are too old for this tradition, you can still make the mix together and gift to the neighborhood children on Christmas Eve.

25. Navity Story

As a family, gather around the Bible with candles and take turns reading portions of the Christmas story (Luke 1-2).

17. Carriage Rides

This time of year brings town activities that you might not otherwise have. Many nearby towns will offer horse drawn carriage rides around the town square. Pack a blanket and get ready to enjoy a brisk night under the stars.

18. Breakfast for Dinner

Take advantage of the cold nights and serve breakfast for dinner. As with most things this holiday season, it will taste better in your pjs!

19. Family Photos

With everyone gathering for family events it is the prime time to take family photos, especially with extended family.

Tip: At family gatherings the thought of taking a group photo is easy to forget. Set a reminder on your phone ahead of time so you don’t leave without a special memory.

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Our Local Branches Have Texas Roots If you’re looking for a new bank in Erath County, choose a bank that calls Erath County home. First Financial has been putting customers FIRST in Texas since 1890. And we’ll do the same for you, with friendly advice and a full range of personal, business and wealth management services.

Speak with one of our local bankers today.

YOU FIRST | FFIN.com Investment and Insurance Products Are Not a Deposit, Not FDIC Insured, Not Insured by Any Government Agency, Not Guaranteed by The Bank, May Lose Value.

(254) 965-2203

CJ’s Spurs -N- Thangs “The Cowboy Capital Consignment Store”

(254) 431-8737

960 N. GRAHAM ST. | STEPHENVILLE, TX 76401 68

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Paula Donaho Realtor® 254-485-3621

Royce Carpenter Realtor® 254-485-1733

Shannon Prescott Realtor® 254-396-5732

Jake Garrett Realtor® 940-231-3191

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Meet our team!

STEPHENVILLE, TX 254-595-0066

FARM/RANCH, COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES

www.Dickerson.Properties

254-968-6110 2900 W. Washington, Suite 23 • Stephenville, TX 76401

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TOGE

All

ART

Ap of This

THER

By Constance O’Bryan Photos by Cross B Photography

Do you ever find yourself just looking around at the life you have been blessed with and swell with pride at the accomplishments that surround you?

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o you ever find yourself just looking around at the life you have been blessed with and swell with pride at the accomplishments that surround you? Do you take a quick moment to thank God for guiding you to this exact moment in time? After all, his plan for you has always been a pretty special one. Christine Newton has been doing just that, thanking God for placing her where she is today. She said this path she has journeyed with her sweet family has definitely been guided and directed by God and she is beyond blessed to be here.

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Over Christmas 2019, while the Newton family was gathered for the holidays, Christine’s husband, Jon, received a call that someone had broken into the family farm in Cross Cut, Texas and stolen their Polaris Ranger.

Determined, the family and law enforcement set out to find it and finally found it wrecked and abandoned in a neighboring county, but it was in need of some major repairs. Jon decided to take it to Hendershot Equipment in Stephenville to have the work done.

While he was there, he bumped into the husband of an old classmate. Jon began catching up with him and shared the news about their recent move to Stephenville.

Jon then reached out to his former classmate, to mention he had met her husband at the mechanic shop. During the conversation, the subject of Christine’s job search came up and Jon’s friend mentioned that she had heard of a job opportunity that may pique Christine’s interest.

Jon’s friend was right, and Christine wasted no time applying. Christine’s resume was a perfect fit for the Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council. She was hired in February 2020 for the position of Executive Director of Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council (CTFAC). “It was such a God thing,” Christine shared. “I knew He wanted me right where I am today. It’s amazing how He took something bad and turned it into something so good.”

Christine shared that when she took over as director in February, things began decently smooth and she adjusted well to her new job. They had several events planned, including their big “Ragin Cajun and ARTigras”” fundraiser, but their whole dynamic shifted when COVID-19 reared its ugly head in March. Christine said that it has been a learning experience, for everyone involved in the Council, but they are rolling with the punches and simply taking things a day at a time.

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“It’s a God thing. He took something bad and turned it into something good.”

-Christine Newton

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Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council is a rural arts provider dedicated to the mission of making the arts accessible to all.

CTFAC has remained resilient and managed to host some events to help get people out of the house all while taking the appropriate safety measures. One of the events the Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council held recently for their community was a Rodeo Memorabilia and Western Art Exhibit in their River North and Clark Regional Airport Galleries. They partnered with the CCPRA, Cowboy Capital Professional Rodeo Association, and hosted “Hats Off to The Rodeo” Exhibit which contained many different pieces of art including bronze sculptures, paintings and rodeo memorabilia featuring a championship bronc saddle from 1916. Their River North Gallery is normally filled with art by local artists and is open to the public.

Apart from the River North Art Gallery, Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council has three other galleries across town that feature some other pretty fantastic local artists.

Christine says that the CTFAC is a rural arts provider dedicated to the mission of “making the arts accessible to all.” They do this by showcasing local artists, bringing in

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Carnegie Hall musicians through the Piatigorsky Foundation, providing art related programs and events to the local community, all at no charge. Recently, they brought in a national traveling exhibit to Stephenville, “Young at Art: A Selection of Caldecott Book Illustrations.” It was composed of original book illustrations, some dating back to 1929.

In addition, they’ve hosted pottery and painting classes, including “Paint The Town” and have sponsored the Rodeo Dance as well as various concerts throughout the year. Another great program CTFAC has shared with the community is inviting Ballet Austin to come and perform for their local families and schools. It gives residents the chance to enjoy a world class show right here in Stephenville.

Christine shared that for some this might be their only opportunity to experience the arts firsthand, so their mission is to bring the arts to the community. CTFAC is beyond grateful for the support they receive to continue doing these types of free activities. The reason all of these events and classes are even possible, at no charge to participants, is through their faithful members, grants from the city and state and through generous donations from fellow art-lovers. Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council truly values each and every person and business that continues to support them as they have now for forty years.

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As they celebrate their 40th year anniversary, CTFAC continually strives to provide safe and fun events for the public. Recently they were able to offer an abstract art show that was held outdoors featuring Texas artist, Jane Hickie. She brought huge abstract pieces of art and hung them outside of the Cross Timbers Fine Arts’ building where they were available for people to walk around, safely distanced from one another, and enjoy the beautiful pieces. Also, at that event, there were blank canvases set up all over outside with art supplies for people to be creative and make their own abstract art. There was also some amazing food, a free concert, and just an all-around good time. ECL

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Nails

by Roxy The Salon is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

1481 W South Loop Suite #11 Stephenville, TX 76401

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MISS DUBLIN PAGEANT Photos provided by the Dublin Chamber

This year, due to cancellations in March, the 2020 Miss Dublin Ambassador Pageant Program was held on Thursday, July 30th. We had our very lovely pageant presentation, with limited seating and mask only entry. The 2020 Miss Dublin Ambassador Court was chosen and all of the girls will be participating in area parades, starting with the Dublin Christmas Parade on December 10th.

Happy to say that our Miss Dublin Ambassadors are fabulous young ladies and true Pineapples, as they stand tall, stay sweet on the inside and wear a crown.

Celebrating 40 years of practice in May 2019 Easy to talk to, experienced, affordable and more importantly, a friend you can trust with your legal issues

159 South Graham Stephenville, TX 76401 • • • • • • •

Wills Probate Real Estate Misdemeanor Criminal Law Estate Planning Ladybird Deeds 1031 Exchanges

(254) 965-3189 www.bettercalloxford.

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Bradberry’s Best

Open M-F, 7:30-5:30; Saturday, 7:30-5:00, closed Sunday

621 S. Patrick Street, Dublin | 877-264-4860

Erath Plumbing Repair & Remodel Residential & Commercial New Construction Sewer Camera

www.erathplumbing.com

John Weber 80

Erath County Living

254-965-3000

Fax: 254-965-3001

Master Plumber # M-17390

CROSS TIMBERS FINE ARTS COUNCIL Serving Bosque, Comanche, Eastland, Erath, Hamilton, Hood, Palo Pinto and Somervell Counties since 1980

204 River North Blvd. Stephenville, TX 76401 (254) 965-6190 www.ctfac.com

JT S DEER PROCESSING JT’s Deer Processing is a full service wild game processor. We provide the best product with the best service.

JT’s Deer Processing

2931 E. Washington Street, Stephenville, Texas Hometown Living At Its Best

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THE 9TH ANNUAL DUBLIN TOUR DE AGUA Provided by the City of Dublin

The 9th Annual Tour de Agua took place on Saturday, 6/13/20, in Dublin. The event was scaled back but still brought nearly 200 cyclists to enjoy a summer’s day on the open road. The ride began and ended at Cottonwood Church, with riders being welcomed at rest stops at the Harbin VFD and a grassy corner just north of Alexander.

The finish line provided another place to relax, where riders and volunteers enjoyed Dublin Bottling Works soda, Swig’s BBQ, and door prizes for gift cards to local stores.

The event raised over $6,000 for Kids Across Cultures, a Dublin non-profit which does clean water and humanitarian work around the world.

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Finding HOME

Sweet HOME

By Martha Helton Photos provided by the Mitchell Family

Stephenville got a little airtime this past February when Chris and Haley Mitchell and their four-year-old son, M.J., found their forever home while appearing on HGTV’s House Hunters show.

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tephenville got a little airtime this past February when Chris and Haley Mitchell and their fouryear-old son, M.J., found their forever home while appearing on HGTV’s House Hunters show. Chris, the analytical one and Haley, the creative one, merged their ideas together to select the perfect house for them. But it was Haley’s creative vision—and her husband’s buy into that vision--that not only helped them see the potential in the home that they bought but has continued to direct Haley as she has happily put her personal touches here and there, bringing the 1979, brick ranch-style house up to date with, as Haley calls it, a modern farmhouse/boho style.

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Their move to Stephenville from Arlington happened last summer after Chris accepted a job working as a math professor at Tarleton. He absolutely loves his job, says Haley. “It definitely is his calling,” she adds. Besides being an analytical mathematician, Haley describes him as “pretty easy-going and goofy.”

Meanwhile, Haley, a stay-at-home mom, constantly percolates with decorating ideas. Chris says, “She is very creative, always going, and her brain never shuts off. Even when she’s sleeping, I think she’s still planning things in her mind!”

Haley says, “decorating has always been my favorite thing to do. Adding my personal touch to our home is very fulfilling to me because it’s a way to express myself, create, and make our space feel personal to our family. I love designing the backdrop to our memories as a family and making our home feel comfortable and welcoming.”

When Chris accepted the job at Tarleton, Haley turned to Katie Burr, a realtor with Hayden Real Estate and long-time resident of Stephenville—for help looking for a house. It was Haley’s idea to try to be on House Hunters. After getting the ok from Katie to apply to be on the show, she applied online, signed waivers and sent in audition tapes. Out of several hundred applications a week, the couple were excited to be chosen to appear on an episode.

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The House Hunters film crew came to Stephenville in July last year and filmed for five days. Katie had selected three houses for the couple to look at. Chris was looking for a newer home that would be move-in ready as well as have sound construction while Haley was looking to personalize a home to make it her own with some character…and preferably with a big tree in the backyard to build a treehouse for M.J. But the main goal they agreed on, says Haley, was “to find something that we could grow in and that we could be happy in for a really long time.” This being their fourth house in the span of a few years, Chris adds, “Yes, I don’t want to move again!”

The first home they looked at was a 1909 charming bungalow with just under 1500 square feet, for sale at $155,000, way under budget, leaving extra cash to renovate. When Katie and Haley entered the house, Chris looked around outside—something he did at every house-- checking out the A/C, roof and foundation, his analytical mind in action.

Haley immediately noticed it had “gorgeous crown molding and the baseboards were beautiful.” That character element she was looking for was there. However, the house was too small. Additionally, it had a massive backyard but no big treehouse tree.

The second house they looked at was a two-year-old 2400-square foot home priced at $249,000—on the high

OUT OF SEVERAL HUNDRED APPLICATIONS A WEEK, THEY WERE EXCITED TO BE CHOSEN TO APPEAR ON AN EPISODE.

side for their budget. The exterior was stone and brick, which appealed to Chris. Haley, however, felt like it wasn’t her style and didn’t have a front porch. Haley also felt it was too “cookie cutter” and too big for their needs.

The dark kitchen cabinets didn’t appeal to Haley and although it had a big backyard, there were no trees.

The third house they looked at their realtor felt was something they could compromise on. “I picked the house because nothing had to be done right away. It was something that Haley could put her touch on but at the same time it had some of the newer finishes that Chris wanted to see,” says Katie. And she was right. The condition of the house suited Chris and Haley could see the potential and the “character” of the house…and the price was right. The brick wall in the entryway was a big selling point for Haley, calling it “so charming.” More selling points for Haley: “We really like the neighborhood; the size was just perfect for us (just under 2000 square feet). I really like the sunroom and the big tree in the backyard.”

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After moving in, Haley immediately began her transformation. Everything was a creamy yellow color, which didn’t suit her taste. She painted the dining room, kitchen, living room and entry all white, to brighten things up.

A dark blue accent wall in the living room adds depth. She also added a tiny accent wall of shiplap-looking wallpaper in the entry. “The rest of the house I’ve painted here and there. Paint is so powerful--it makes such a big impact and takes barely any time.”

Then, a few weeks after moving in, the couple decided to do a little kitchen facelift. They had white granite countertops installed and Haley put up a white subway tile backsplash herself. They also purchased a new farmhouse sink and fixtures. New cabinet hardware completed the facelift.

In the large master bedroom Haley painted the walls a deep, moody green-blue and with the light-colored bedding on the iron bed, it really pops with contrast.

The door that led into the master bathroom was rather cramped when you opened it, so Haley and Chris built a sliding barn door, a nod to the farmhouse style with modern hardware to balance things out.

The sunroom had a makeover with new gray luxury vinyl tile. They like to hang out there a lot, watching their son play in the backyard.

The front of the house also got a makeover. The front porch welcomes visitors with two white rocking chairs and a white hanging swing. Haley added medium gray barnwood-style shutters on the windows and overhauled the landscaping, complete with a small bed of flowers around the mailbox.

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HALEY’S VISION TO SPRUCE UP HER HOME FEEDS HER SOUL—AND ULTIMATELY THE SOUL OF HER FAMILY.

On the to-do list for the future: tweaking some more things in the kitchen and redoing both bathrooms— she’d like to have a tub in her master bathroom. She’s also thought about getting rid of the double doors that lead into the master from the sunroom (it has another entrance from the hall); then, put an electric fireplace in that spot to bring a sense of coziness to the room. She envisions possibly painting the brick on the outside of the house a creamy white or light “greige” color. They also need a privacy fence and the backyard still needs some work.

Haley’s vision to spruce up her home feeds her soul— and ultimately the soul of her family. “I am happiest when I am working on a project,” says Haley. “The endless opportunities to improve and customize our home is like hitting the jackpot for me.” ECL

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254-918-0322 { a darling cottage boutique }

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BREAKFAST SERVED ALL DAY T WO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

Q UA L I T Y • VA R I E T Y • S E R V I C E

1615 South Loop (Next to Bruner Chevrolet)

Phone: 968-2900 OPEN 24 HOURS

1700 Lingleville Rd. (Next to Optimist/Jaycee Park)

Phone: 968-4668 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

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612 South Loop • Stephenville, TX 76401 • 254-965-7823 M-F 9-6 | Sat 9-5 | Closed Sunday

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THE ART OF LOVELY MANNERS Photos provided by Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council

CTFAC Board President Kelijon Nance instructed the young ladies during this weeklong camp on modern etiquette.

The camp was held at the Stephenville Historical Museum School House. Lessons included things such as how to set formal place settings, how to sit like a young lady, how to address someone when you meet them for the first time and how to introduce and address their elders.

They learned how to write thank you notes and properly address them for the mail. The young ladies enjoyed painting their own flower vases and learning how to arrange flowers in that vase. More importantly, they were taught the Golden Rule of putting other people first and treating others the way you would like to be treated. At the end of the week, local dignitaries and parents were invited to attend a reception at the Stephenville Historical Museum School House. The young ladies were able to put into practice the manners they learned that week. It was a really sweet event.

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CROSS TIMBERS FAMILY SERVICES AND STEPHENVILLE “GO PURPLE” FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH Photos provided by Cross Timbers Family Services

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month is observed annually in October.

Cross Timbers Family Services is proud to support survivors and speak out against domestic violence in our community.

In order to bring awareness to the “Go Purple to End Domestic Violence” campaign and show support for victims of domestic violence, our staff decorated the courthouse with purple ribbons and signs.

On the morning of October 1, the staff of Cross Timbers Family Services decorated the courthouse it will remain decorated for the entire month of October to remind Stephenville that now is time to take a stand against domestic violence.

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DoublingIn on Feeding Dublin

By Meg Arlen Photos by Cross B Photography and Provided by The Love Basket

M

ost people say Dublin was named for the capital of Ireland. Others think it might have been named for the warning-cry of danger in the 1800s, “Double-in.”

However, in 2020, Dublin stood for “doubling-in” or giving a double amount to help neighbors. In December 1999, Erath County reached a record low of 2.1% unemployment. By May of 2020, that number rocketed to a record high of 8.8% and the “Helpers” in Dublin answered the call.

What did Jesus do?

He was always feeding people. The Love Basket in Dublin is doing just that.

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THE LOVE BASKET

n 2005, when Katrina devastated Louisiana, the government planned to relocate five families to Dublin. The adult Sunday school class at Patrick Street Church of Christ decided to collect basic kitchen supplies for those five families. Two members of that class, Ray and Barbara Sissom, along with Charles and Pam Crabtree discovered plans can change.

“Just about the time we had all the flour, beans, paper towels, sugar, etc. collected, we found out that the government changed its mind and those families were going somewhere else,” Barbara Sissom shared their disappointment. “Our class had to decide what to do with all of the supplies we had collected. Lannie Lee, Dublin’s police chief at the time, suggested starting a food pantry for folks in Dublin. Four of us took that on. Pam suggested the name, and we posted signs all around the community.”

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“Jesus was always feeding people. We are His hands and feet.”

The Love Basket began on October 7, 2005, at its original location, and then moved to the current location in October 2007. “The first week we were open, we had two or three people come,” Barbara said. “The numbers steadily grew until we were serving 25 or 30 families every time we were open.”

“After the church decided it couldn’t host the pantry, we moved to the Quik-Lok Storage buildings where owner Pam Crabtree donates the space and the utilities

the driving force and the heart and soul of this pantry.

“Sometime after moving to our current location, we grew so big that we increased what we were giving out and added an evening session for those who couldn't come during the day. Since our inception, we have grown from just a few families to as many as 115 on any given Friday. Our current average is about 90 families each time we’re open. Due to COVID, we had to be flexible and switch to a drive-through pantry.

Bill and Iris Kerley have benefited from the Love Basket’s blessings in two ways. “In hard times, we’ve received the blessing of food for our table and we’ve been so blessed to volunteer,” Iris added. “Volunteering gives especially good feelings. Jesus said, ‘I was hungry and you fed me.’”

Bill attended Dublin High School. “I’ve known some of these people all of our lives,” he said. They’re our neighbors. Other volunteers include Robert and Shelia Helton, Esther and Jesus Daniel, plus many others, but Ray and Barbara are the hardest working people I’ve ever met. They started this with their own money.”

The Love Basket, located at 207 E. Elm Street in the Quik-Lok Storage Buildings, is open the 1st and 3rd Fridays of each month from 8-11 am and again from 5-7 pm.

Any Erath County resident struggling to put food on the table qualifies. The Love Basket receives funding from individual contributions and various grants—Erath County United Way giving the largest and most consistent grants. Dublin’s Love Basket currently offers hope to about 200 families, twice a month.

“We will be in operation until the Lord tells us otherwise,” Barbara added.

to the Love Basket,” Barbara explained. “It became an independently operated food pantry in 2007and a 501 3c in 2010. Love Basket space quickly grew from a single room plus a couple of storage buildings to five rooms and storage space.”

Board President Ray Sissom and his wife Barbara are

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The greatest needs for any pantry ministry are volunteers and funding.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH FOOD PANTRY AND COMMUNITY TABLE

About twenty years ago, members of the First United Methodist Church (FUMC) opened their hearts and their doors to offer food for those difficult times. Annette Cleveland and other members began with member donations.

Julia Broussard is just one who has helped to sustain that ministry. “My food bank volunteering is most important to me. Hunger is something that changes you as a person. Your outlook and understanding of the world are shaped by your food supply. Enough food allows you to focus on other priorities. Not enough, it’s all you think about. It is my honor to help feed people.”

Staff member Leta Sage works as the one-person-person, serving each Dublin family that calls. “It started years ago by the Administrative Council of the local congregation and was initially managed by Annette Cleveland. Mike and Mary Haley as well as Julia Broussard served as managers at various times through the years.

Food is distributed on a calendar month basis.

“It's always good to call 254-445-2157 before you come to make sure someone is available,” Leta suggested.

“Each client may come to the church office, 630 Highland Avenue, for a box of food, the estimated value of $50, once per calendar month. The only requirement is proof of Dublin residency and a photo ID. Current pantry hours are 9-1 Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 9-12 Tuesday. Participation varies from month to month and holds steady throughout the year.”

The pantry is funded by donations from the congregation and Brookshire Brothers grocery store. Also, the Post Office, Boy Scouts, Dublin Public Schools, TOPS, and Highland Avenue Congregational Methodist Church food drives benefit the FUMC pantry, and Tarrant County Food Bank gives and members donations.

Stephenville Area Elks Lodge 2834 Beacon Grant gives generous funding over the last four years, contributing money to the food pantry as well as the monthly Community Table ministry that feeds a hot meal to more than 300 Dublin residents every month. The Community Table ministry is Mike and Mary Haley and DJ Klutts.

The greatest needs for any pantry ministry are volunteers and funding.

Julia said it best, “Jesus was always feeding people.

We are His hands and feet.”

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Beans & Franks

1296 W Washington

254-965-4224

2810 W Washington Suite 104

254-434-2563

Bank with People You Know H. Wesley Rose, President Amy R. Troutman, Vice President Brent A. Bible, Vice President

2653 W. Washington Stephenville, TX 76401 254-918-5487 | fmbank-tx.com

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CURRENTLY OPEN FOR DIY Craft Studio

The Trendiest DIY Projects

On the Downtown Square Girls' Night Out Workshops Date Nights

Event Venue Wine & Beer Greer’s Food

Painting • Decals Graphic Design/ Logos

DINE-IN CATERING FREE PICK UP & DELIVERY GROUP RESERVATIONS

Parties Splatter Room™ Team Building

Walk-ins Welcome

254-965-GOAT (4628) thepurplegoatllc.com

WE ENCOURAGE RESERVATIONS FOR GROUPS OF 8 OR LARGER Book a Reservation Online at pinspiration.com/Stephenville

2025 E WASHINGTON ST, STEPHENVILLE, TX 76401

254-434-2453 148 W College St, Stephenville TX

2020

UBE Stephenville Evening Lions Club

We put the “sure” in insurance

Upland Bird Extravaganza

Thank You!

Your generosity allows us to sponsor more projects benefitting the youth of our area!

In the end it all comes back to the kids, helping to get them active in outdoor activities and supporting the leaders of tomorrow!

See You Next April www.EveningLions.org

Dublin Insurance Agency We offer Auto, Home, Commercial Auto, Business, Farm, and Mobile Home insurance.

WE ARE YOUR INDEPENDENT AGENT. 119 S. Patrick St, Dublin | Open Monday-Friday 8-5 254-445-3277 | dublininsuranceagency.com Hometown Living At Its Best

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E S CAP E TO T H E

Great Outdoors

By Heather Rothrock

Are you looking for a reason to camp? Need some justification to escape to the great outdoors? We've got you covered! Camping, with the appeal of disconnecting from the chaos of daily life and reconnecting with nature, is a popular activity that people have enjoyed for generations.

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T

here's nothing like the great outdoors to ease your soul!

Camping, with the appeal of disconnecting from the chaos of daily life and reconnecting with nature, is a popular activity that people have enjoyed for generations.

In 1908, Thomas Hiram Holding, considered by many to be the founder of modern recreational camping, used his childhood experiences as part of a 300-person wagon train that crossed over 1200 miles of prairies as the basis for his book "The Camper's Handbook." The mid-1850s had campers focused on survival rather than recreation; however, this time's activities led to camping as a recreational activity.

Are you looking for a reason to camp? Need some justification to escape to the great outdoors? We've got you covered!

1. D isconnect - go where cellphone service is limited and delete social media apps from your phone. Many campgrounds don't have wifi or even cell service!

Emails and texts get zero attention, so you can truly disconnect from the humdrum of daily life!

2. Get closer to nature - submerge yourself in it! Being outside can fight depression, lower blood pressure, and boost mental health. Many of us spend our days at

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There's nothing like the great outdoors to ease your soul! work, under fluorescent lights or in front of computer screens - spending time outdoors gives our minds and bodies a much-needed reset.

3. Cost - camping is as inexpensive or expensive as you want it to be! You can go big and camp in a massive fifth-wheel, or you can rough it in a two-person tent.

Camping gear is relatively inexpensive, and the cost to stay at a state park is minimal. State and national parks offer discounts or free admission for various reasons this is something worth looking into!

4. You can stay close to home if you want. Do some research and find those local trails you've never hiked or the waterfall that you've never seen. Explore your area and see it all from a new and natural perspective.

5.

It's good for your soul and your heart! Camping involves exercise - hike, bike, swim, kayak, go tubing... take advantage of nature's gym! Breathe deeply, keep looking up and all around and soak it all in as you unwind.

Explore your area and see it all from a new and natural perspective.

One of the many reasons camping appeals to people is that there are so many ways to do it!

1. Tent camping is the most basic and straightforward form of camping, and it merely involves finding the right campsite and setting up your tent!

2. Backpacking is a fantastic way to explore the outdoors and get away from everything. Also known as backcountry camping, this activity is rugged and, at times, extreme, so having quality gear and knowing what you're doing is a must. This form of camping isn't for everyone! You will want to have lightweight and durable equipment that will withstand the elements.

3.

Campground camping is likely the most common type of camping as it gives you the best of both worlds - amenities such as bathrooms and showers while sleeping outdoors. Amenities available vary by location and sometimes even by campsite within a particular park.

4. Car camping is exactly what it sounds like - you camp in, or on, your vehicle. It is easy to bring sufficient supplies, equipment, and food as your vehicle carries it all. Many people like to car camp in an SUV or van (also known as van camping).

5. A rooftop tent sits on the roof rack of your vehicle or over the bed of a pickup truck. It gives you protection from the weather and easily folds up. Often you don't need a formal campground as you can sleep on the built-in mattress of the rooftop tent anywhere you can find level ground.

6. Camper cabins usually don't have kitchens or bathrooms, but they provide desired shelter and beds. You still have to bring your gear, but a tent is unnecessary. Camping in a cabin is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without messing with a tent!

7. An up and coming form of camping is RV camping, which involves using a recreational vehicle that is either driveable or pulled behind a vehicle. Packing light isn't a concern with RV camping as the RV can store quite a bit. If you don't want to "rough it," you may be limited to campgrounds with RV hookups for water, electricity, and utilities. RVs vary immensely in price, but many people rent out their RV to others. Some even deliver the RV to where you want it for an additional charge.

Spending some time getting organized before, during, and after camping, yields excellent results and less stress.

Check out these tips ** If your finances permit it, buy things strictly for camping and have them already cleaned and packed. Some things you might consider having packed and on hand - coffee mugs, utensils, dishrags, towels, soap, paper products, and such. It's a breeze to grab the totes and go! ** Store your camping gear in clear bins so that you're not rummaging through everything looking for a particular thing. ** An old Army trick - keeping a roll of toilet paper in a coffee can keeps it dry! ** Use your bags for your personal items and clothing. ** Roll, don't fold, clothing and towels. Saves space and things are easy to find. In my family, each kid has a bag.

You can imagine how many sibling arguments this has spared us! ** If space permits have two coolers - one for food and one for drinks. In the food cooler, put the ice bag or cooler packs on the bottom, then cooling racks on top of them, and the food sits on the cooling racks (an easy way to keep food from getting soaked).

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** When loading a car, keep what you need first easily accessible.

The old saying "practice makes perfect" never rang true in my life, but practice does make things better. The more you camp, the better you will get at the logistics and organization of it all.

Our great state is full of cool places to check out, and camp and the Texas Parks and Wildlife website has oodles of information to help you narrow down where to stay.

Here are a few places within driving distance of Erath County that are worth checking out...

1. Dinosaur Valley State Park - Just a short drive away, Dinosaur Valley State Park is a great place to hike, bike, fish, camp, and more! Enthusiasts enjoy seeing the dinosaur tracks! This park features campsites with full hookups, primitive (walk-in) campsites, and two group sites.

2. Mother Neff State Park - Many of the facilities at Mother Neff State Park, including the park roads, concession building, and lookout tower, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a public work relief program that operated from 1933-1942. The CCC Cabin rents out nightly as a lodge, and the park features full hookup campsites and more primitive ones.

3. Meridian State Park - Located on Lake Meridian, this state park is one of the smaller ones, and you can swim, fish, hike, camp, and take in the beautiful landscape.

Kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards are available for rent year-round. This state park offers a choice of primitive or full hookup sites and the use of cabins.

4. Cleburne State Park - All campsites at this facility have water and electricity, and some have sewer hookups.

Screened shelters and a cabin are available for rent as well. Located on Cedar Lake, you can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and no-wake boating.

5. Lake Whitney State Park - Largemouth, striped and white bass, along with blue catfish, are among the fish anglers might catch at this state park. You do not need a fishing license to fish from the shore in a state park.

Campsites with water only, water and electricity, and full hookups, as well as screened shelters, are available.

6. Colorado Bend State Park - This state park is a family favorite! If you haven't seen the breathtaking 70-foot spring-fed Gorman Falls, then a trip to this park is a necessity! Wear good shoes, and be prepared for a rocky hike. The park features back-to-nature camping - with drive-up sites, walk-in tent sites, or hike-in primitive campsites. No hookups are available.

7. Mineral Wells State Park - This park, near what was once and popular health resort, features miles of trails, rock climbing, and a lake.

Contact the parks directly or park information at 1-800-792-1112 or check out the Texas Parks and Wildlife website https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ for more details.

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FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF DUBLIN

Part of Your Community!

Part of Your Life!

825 North Patrick, Dublin, TX www.bankingfnb.com | 254-445-4400

Family Owned & Operated Feed Store Hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30 - 6 | Sat 7:30 - 3

2824 E Washington (Bus. 377) • Stephenville • 254-968-0037 110

Erath County Living

Alfalfa & Coastal Hay Nutrena Feeds Cowtown Feeds Hi-pro Feeds Seed

Animal Health Products Ranch Supplies

Triple Crown Horse Feed Oxy-gen Supplements

Lindner Show Feeds WW Livestock Systems

And Much More!

Index of Advertisers 4C's Rodeo and Ranch .............................................. Back Cover

First Financial Bank........................................................................68

Ace Hardware................................................................................... 32

First National Bank of Dublin.................................................... 110

Ag Texas Farm Credit Services..................................................94

Fraser Agency, Inc..........................................................................45

Allied Body & Frame Co. .............................................................94

Fraser, Wilson & Bryan, P.C. ...........................................................1

Apollo Computers Inc. or Stephenville..................................... 9

Gifford Electronics ......................................................................... 95

Apparel by Twisted J................................................................ 18-19

Home Place....................................................................................... 32

Associated Well Services, Inc................................................... 102

Jasper’s Café ................................................................................... 95

Baili Nettleship Photography.....................................................54

JT’s Deer Processing....................................................................... 81

Barefoot Athletics........................................................................... 63

Lawrence Hay & Feed ..................................................................68

Beans and Franks.......................................................................... 102

Members Trust ................................................................................ 78

Bill Oxford, Attorney at Law....................................................... 79

Moms Who Know...............................................................................3

Blue Flamingo..................................................................................90

Nurture n’ Nature...............................................................................3

BMY......................................................................Inside Front Cover

Peacock’s Restaurant..................................................................... 91

Bradberry’s Best..............................................................................80

Pinspiration Stephenville .......................................................... 103

CJ’S Spurs-N-Thangs.....................................................................68

RedFin Pools......................................................Inside Back Cover

Cowboy Way Travel...................................................................... 102

Scott’s Flowers................................................................................. 95

Cross B Photography.....................................................................44

Security Storage.............................................................................. 55

Cross Timbers Family Services..................................................90

Stephenville Evening Lions Club............................................. 103

Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council................................................ 81

Stephenville Family Dentistry.................................................... 33

Cross Timbers Orthopaedics.........................................................5

Sue Ann Porter, CPA, PLLC.........................................................112

Dental Excellence............................................................................. 41

Swindles Jewelry.............................................................................69

Dickerson Real Estate...................................................................69

Taylor Lynn Photography............................................................. 62

Dowell Water Well.......................................................................... 32

Texas Health Hospital of Stephenville .......................................2

Dublin EDC...........................................................................................7

The Hay & Feed Ranch................................................................. 110

Dublin Insurance Agency........................................................... 103

The Purple Goat............................................................................. 103

Dublin ISD....................................................................................26-27

The Salon............................................................................................ 78

Easter Heat & Air............................................................................. 95

The Wicked Clover.........................................................................94

Edwards & Stokes...........................................................................94

Upland Bird Extravaganza......................................................... 103

Erath Plumbing................................................................................80

Veldhuizen Cheese Shoppe....................................................... 40

F & M Bank....................................................................................... 102

Woods Furniture.............................................................................. 91

PLEASE THANK THESE ADVERTISERS FOR MAKING THIS PUBLICATION POSSIBLE! Hometown Living At Its Best

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Accounting Made Easy!

1710 W South Loop, (254) 968-6112 sueannportercpa.com

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REDFIN POOLS

BROCK

TEXAS

LET US DESIGN YOUR POOL! P O O L C O N S T R U C T I O N • P O O L R E M O D E L S • O U T D O O R L I V I N G S PAC E S • C U S TO M P E R G O L A S R E TA I N I N G WA L L S • C U S TO M R O C K WO R K • L A N D S C A P E D E S I G N A N D I N S TA L L AT I O N • S O D

WWW.REDFINPOOLS.COM | 817.618.9465 | REDFINPOOLS@GMAIL.COM 1903 FM 1189, SUITE 200 BROCK, TX 76087

BUILDING OUR OWN COMMUNITY ONE PERSON AT A TIME

COWBOY CAPITAL OF THE WORLD STEPHENVILLE, TX We are a RV Park focused on building a community within Stephenville, TX where everything you need is never more than a few steps away! We offer a full service campground for nightly or monthly rental, cabin rentals and stall rentals.

The campground and cabin rentals include the use of our top of the line facility. We have an outdoor lighted arena with incredible ground for all equine events, outdoor patio and stalls available for our guests as well.

This is all located just 1.4 miles from Lone Star Arena and 3.2 miles from the Tarleton State University. Arena is available for use by tenants or available for lease on an hour by hour basis to the public.

We are continually building and striving to make 4C’s Rodeo Ranch your ultimate full service campground and cabin rental facility. We have big plans for the future and hope that you join our newly founded community!

2370 FM 205 STEPHENVILLE, TX 76401 • WWW.4CSRODEORANCH.COM