Issuu

SUM M ER 2021

Be lla V i t a Ra n c h :

A STUNNING WE DDIN G DESTINA TION

THE LOVE OF THE GAME AND THE PLAYERS The Stephenville High School football coach grew up in Erath County playing for the Yellow Jackets and in 2019, returned to take the head coaching position after coaching at Abilene and Magnolia ISDs.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES Need some ideas on ways to keep your kids occupied this summer? Here’s a list of events in the area that are guaranteed to keep them entertained and busy during the entire break.

Hometown Li v ing At Its Best

In Your Financi Making aMaking Differencea Difference In Your Financial Future

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Hometown Living At Its Best

Never leave your health to chance.

We hope you never need us. But if you do, you can count on Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Stephenville to be here for you and your loved ones with advanced care across a wide range of services. And, as always, we have protocols in place designed around your safety. Emergency Services ■ Imaging ■ Breast Care ■ Surgery Cardiac Rehab Services ■ Wound Care ■ Diabetes Management ■ Medical Nutrition ■ Therapy Services

Texas Health is right there with you.

1-877-THR-WELL | TexasHealth.org/Stephenville

Erath County Living

Hometown Living At Its Best

Contents

FOR CARTER LEE On April 20, 2020, the world lost a light but gained an inspiration whose influence has only grown and continues to grow and touch lives since his loss. Carter Sharp’s legacy lives forever.

THE MAIN THING IS THE MAIN STREET When you think of charm and community in a town, you may think of Main Street. Main Street in almost any town offers stories and a place for fellowship, it’s also a place for economic activity and the starting point for growth in a town.

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BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS, THE HAMPTON FAMILY JJ Hampton…. determined, driven, gracious, appreciative, and humble. The Stephenville native perhaps best known for her accomplishments inside of an arena, with rope in hand, will be the first to tell you she loves helping other people.

NO TIME FOR THE ROCKING CHAIR Charly Crawford is retiring from roping on the pro rodeo circuit. But don’t expect to find him sitting on a porch in a rocking chair - unless he’s pausing to catch his breath during a hard day of work or trying to keep up with his family.

THE LOVE OF THE GAME AND THE PLAYERS

TRAVEL TEXAS NEW BRAUNFELS In a state filled with beautiful landscapes, people of all backgrounds, festivals to celebrate every occasion, and unique sunsets painting every evening skyline, one never has to leave the state of Texas to create memories that last forever and what makes them so special.

Erath County Living

SEE A NEED, FILL A NEED The Weiss family is made up of first responders for many generations back. They opened the Dublin museum as a tribute to first responders.

About the Cover Cover photo is of a bride and groom who got married at the beautiful Bella Vita Ranch. To read more about this stunning wedding destination, turn to page 102.

KIDS HEADED OFF TO COLLEGE Parents' feelings about their own life without their child's daily presence and parenting responsibilities are often met with a mix of emotions. As you prepare to see your adolescent off to college, you flashback to all your child's milestones, special moments, and fun times you've shared together.

Meet Your Hometown Doctors

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Hometown Living At Its Best

Contents

If there is anything that stands in stark contrast to the Christian life, it is perfectionism. God wants us to be uniquely ourselves, not a clone of someone else’s ideal. Breaking the mold isn’t easy, but when we do, what takes shape is a messy, crayon-scribbled face that God wants to hang on His fridge.

Need some ideas on ways to keep your kids occupied this summer? Here’s a list of events in the area that are guaranteed to keep them entertained and busy during the entire break.

BELIEVE BOLDLY

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS Does it seem like every time you turn around, your home has been taken apart by your little explorer? Don’t despair. It may not only result from an extraordinary desire to learn. Who knows, your child may be a future scientist, inventor, or leader in the making.

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LOW COST, HIGH REWARD SUMMER ACTIVITIES No matter your age, summer brings with it the feeling of a little less responsibility and a need for a little bit more fun in your schedule. While vacations and time off of work or school are usually the highlights for many during these warm months, there are plenty of other days that beckon us all to enjoy the sunshine and have some fun.

REMEMBERING THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE To give honor and remembrance through selfless acts can take many forms. At Tarleton State University, the ROTC Corp of Cadets has chosen one form of remembrance in honor of Tarleton alumni.

Erath County Living

STARS ACROSS TEXAS The Lone Star State may have one big iconic Texas star on the flag that represents the almost 30 million citizens, but we all know everything is bigger is Texas and that includes the slew of talent too!

TARLETON SPIRIT, FIGHT FOR THE WIN A team of skilled athletes themselves, the Tarleton Cheer Team continues to inspire others by building school spirit and being ambassadors for the university.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES

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BELLA VITA RANCH: A STUNNING WEDDING DESTINATION Bella Vita Ranch (which means “beautiful life” in Italian), is a beautiful 5,000 square foot Tuscan-style wedding and event venue on 26-acres of rolling green countryside just minutes west of Stephenville.

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KELLEY SNODGRASS, TARLETON’S GIFT TO NATURE Kelley’s journey to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center was a short one. He grew up attending a small school in Lake Worth and then attended Tarleton State University in Stephenville. He says his TSU experiences provided opportunities that supported independence and, more importantly, collaborative thinking, planning and actions.

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

Nurture n’ Nature was founded by two mothers, both Tarleton graduates who were working full-time jobs, raising children, and working on their MBAs at the University of North Texas. Together, they had experienced personal in-home care childcare, other stay at home moms offering childcare, as well as commercial care. Their realization that there were amazing qualities about all those environments brought about their vision to take the best aspects from all of those and create a “home away from home” for their children that was safe, loving and dependable. Roots were planted in 2007 when the owners participated in and won a competition for their business plan sponsored by the University of North Texas. In addition, they were supported by our amazing community and STEDO foundation. Nurture n’ Nature opened the doors in September 2009 with the mission of providing quality childcare that is not only focused on just childrens’ needs, but parents’ needs as well.

They offer childcare for 6 weeks to 12 years of age with extended hours of operation that are convenient for other hard-working parents from 6:30am -6:00 pm Monday through Friday. Nurture n’ Nature does not follow the regular school schedule for closures. Recognizing that sometimes parents do not have a choice during inclement weather, Nature n’ Nurture does not close their doors when Texas decides to deliver a nice blanket of ice during the winter. Those parents who do not get to stay home snuggled in front of the fire retain their option of childcare during those weather events that may close other centers doors. Nurture n’ Nature is fortunate to have an amazing director, Tate Vernon, who has been with the center since it opened 12 years ago. She joined at the ripe old age of 19 and has blossomed into an inspirational leader and backbone of Nurture n’ Nature. Her leadership, enthusiasm and passion for children is second to none and the children, parents and owners of Nurture n’ Nature are blessed to have her! Tate is supported by Adriana Juarez, the Facility Coordinator, who has been part of the adventure for the last 2 years. She, too, is a wonderful and essential part of the success of Nurture n’ Nature. Her love, compassion and dedication to the children is demonstrated day in and day out and it is safe to say that the center would not be the same without her. It also cannot go without being said how remarkable the staff is. These are women that genuinely love their jobs and their children. Yes, we said, “their”! From our nursery room teachers to our wonderfully creative and crazy twoyear-old class learning sign language to our terrific three- and four-year-olds learning writing, rhyming and oh so much more. Nurture n’ Nature truly has something for every small child to learn. Nurture n’ Nature also offers parents a piece of mind while away from their children by offering a live streaming video system. It allows parents and grandparents to watch their children grow remotely. It is an added benefit for family members that do not live close by but want to feel that way! Nurture n’ Nature recognizes that their success is owed to the remarkable community in which they live and operate and the parents that support them. They pay it forward by participating in community fund raisers, sponsorships, events and is a loyal member of the chamber lead by the incredible servant leader, July Danley!

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

1225 W. South Loop, Stephenville | (254) 965-4849 | Here for you 6:30am-6:00pm

From the Publisher

ummer is here, Erath County! The last few months have flown by, and we are excited to bring you the first edition of Erath County Living for 2021! We hope this year is better than the last. We know the busyness has returned, but we hope you take time to catch up with friends and spend time with your family. We ask you to sit and read a magazine, preferably this one, and be inspired by someone who is doing something great for others. Better yet, do something great for others!

We tell you with every issue how much the people of Erath County inspire us. In this issue, you will read about rodeo royalty Charly Crawford and JJ Hampton. You will also read about Sterling Doty, Stephenville High School’s football coach. In high school, Coach Doty was part of the 1998 and 1999 back-to-back state championship teams and now gets to coach some of the sons of his high school teammates. 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 great year to come!

PUBLISHER

RedFin Publishing Justin & Hayley Six

Kyle & Halsey Clark

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Hayley Six

CREATIVE | DESIGN

GreenFox Marketing

ONTENT COORDINATOR Marybelle Gomez C Marybelle.RedFin@Gmail.com

PROOF READER

Jennifer Cabbage

PHOTOGRAPHERS Baili Nettlesmith Photography Danielle Meador Photography

COVER PHOTO

Eric Priddy Photography Sass and Soul Photography

Photo by PHOTOconcepts

SALES Kyle Clark Justin Six Lori Stephens

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lindsay Allen Kimberly Blaker Peggy Purser Freeman Janette Halliday Martha Helton

Rick Mauch

Cassidy Robinson Erica Willis Karen Wright

CONTRIBUTORS

Kimberly Blaker

Until the next edition, wishing you many blessings -

Justin and Hayley Six

Kyle and Halsey Clark

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

www.RedfinPublishing.com P.O. Box 1239 | Weatherford, TX 76086

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends. John 15:13 Erath County Living Magazine | RedFin Publishing

(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.

www.ErathCountyLiving.com 8

Erath County Living

CROSS TIMBERS FINE ARTS COUNCIL Summer Storytime at the Library with CTFAC

Serving Bosque, Comanche, Eastland, Erath, Hamilton, Hood, Palo Pinto and Somervell Counties since 1980

Special book reading along with a summer fun art activity

Thursday, July 8th 2021, 2-3pm Stephenville Public Library, 174 N. Columbia St • Ages invited: For all ages • Cost: Free to the public (no registration necessary) • Contact: Call (254) 965-6190 or email info@cftac. com for more information

CTFAC presents “Art Camp” Join us for a special art camp featuring art instructors Stephanie Beach and Lauren Betancur. Learn elements of art design, work with different media such as clay, watercolors, acrylics & collage. Create up to 12 unique take home art projects, plus sketches and practice papers. Students will also recieve a sketchbook, t-shirt, pencils, flower press and portfolio. Refreshments will be provided.

CTFAC presents “Manners Camp” Join us for lessons on everything from modern table etiquette to proper correspondence.

July 19th – July 23rd “The Art of Lovely Manners” – classes for girls 9:30a-11:30a; “The Art of Being a Gentleman” – classes for boys 2p-4p Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council, River North Gallery at 204 River North Blvd, Stephenville • Ages invited: Boys and girls ages 8-13. • Cost: $75 per child. • Registration deadline: Seating is limited – please call to reserve spot • Contact: Call (254) 965-6190 or email info@cftac.com

July 12th – July 15th, 9a-12n Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council, River North Gallery at 204 River North Blvd, Stephenville

204 River North Blvd. Stephenville, TX 76401

(254) 965-6190

• Ages invited: Boys and girls, 2nd grade and up • Cost: $130 per child (After July 1 - $150 per child). Limited scholarships available. • Registration deadline: Seating is limited – please call

crosstimbersfinearts.org

Find us on facebook

to reserve spot • Contact: Call (254) 965-6190 or email info@ctfac.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

BUILDING

THE HAMPTON FAMILY By Janette Halliday Photos provided by the Hampton Family

J Hampton…. determined, driven, gracious, appreciative, and humble. The Stephenville native perhaps best known for her accomplishments inside of an arena, with rope in hand, will be the first to tell you she loves helping other people. The Women’s Professional Rodeo Association eighteen-time world champion knows her love for competing and drive for success has paved her way to those titles. “I love to rope and to compete. I love to work. I love to help people.”

Erath County Living

“I like to build relationships with people.”

THE THREE R’S-ROPING, REAL ESTATE, AND RELIABILITY The Hampton family ropes. Period. Hampton had never wanted to do anything else. Her world titles will tell you that her passion lies in roping. She never knew anything different, nor did she want to, at least until she graduated with honors from Tarleton State University. Her aspirations were to become a lawyer. She was convinced of her path enough that she sold her truck and trailer. She took the prequalification exam and bombed it. “God had different plans,” she said in retrospect. So, what would she do instead of being a lawyer? Her mother Barbara Hampton, an established successful realtor in her own right, urged her to move forward with a real estate career. She admits she didn’t want to be in the family business, but looking back, it’s the best decision I ever made.” She views her successful real estate career, JJ Hampton Realty, as one of helping people, not about compliments she receives from customers. “Most of the people call because they need your help. There are a lot of working pieces to real estate and each day presents a new challenge. You have to stay on top of events, I will not quit until I get the job done. The harder the challenge, the better I do.” “If you tell me you want it, I am going to do everything in my power to get it for you.” “If there is a will there is a way!”

Erath County Living

“We are still a country town where neighbors help neighbors.”

PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE Hampton acknowledges her success, both in and out of the arena is derived from relationships. “I like to build relationships with people and very thankful to have a good network, we all like to help each other. I have been able to further help people through real estate and rodeo.” As a Stephenville native, Hamptons are well known in Erath county. From selling dairy replacement heifers, Rodeo to Real Estate. “My family goes way back and was not a stranger to anyone.” Hampton’s help extends to volunteer opportunities within Erath county. “We are still a country town where neighbors help neighbors,” Hampton said, as she serves on various civic and professional boards in Erath county including the Stephenville Chamber of Commerce and Stephenville Association of Realtors. “This town has given a lot to me. I want to give back,” Hampton commented.

“The sport has given me so much that I want to give back so that other people get to experience and enjoy the sport I love.”

THE IMPACT OF RODEO ON ERATH COUNTY “I still think rodeo plays a big part in this town,” said Hampton. “I feel like this county continues to open its doors and supports cowboys and cowgirls.” Hampton points out that some people may not realize how the rodeo industry brings light to Erath county in the amount of revenue generated by both local residents and competitors that visit Stephenville. “When I am in different places, rodeo spans a lot further because of my dad and brother. When I go places, I find favor with people.” She related a recent experience of friends paying it forward because of what her brother, Row, had done in the past. Her brother had offered friends to stay at their house twenty-five years ago and because of that generosity, they paid it back allowing Hampton free stalls and RV hookups. “Because my brother had let them stay at our house, they returned the favor.” “The sport has given me so much that I want to give back, so that other people get to experience and enjoy the sport I love.” Hampton said, adding “If I can do that, then I have succeeded.” “I just want to continue to help people and be a part of things here.”

FAMILY TIES THAT BIND Hampton is quick to point out another blessing in her life, her son Kason, who was born in April of 2009. Hampton said she has never forced Kason to rope, citing the fact that “Kason has been drug to rodeos since he was born,” laughed Hampton. She laughed, recalling the day when Kason decided he did want to rope, but told his father, Ricky Prince. Ricky replied, “You realize when you tell your mother, you will be ALL in.” Even though the multi-time world title winner considers she is “passing on the torch” to Kason, she doesn’t want any undue pressure on him. Hampton doesn’t rest on her reputation as a roper to be something that Kason should rely on. “I have always told him ‘you be you.’ A lot of people don’t put together the connection between her world champion status and her son. “People know me as JJ Hampton. I am just mom to him, it’s no big deal.” But Hampton stands fast on her belief of being the best mother she can be, supporting Kason in whatever he chooses to do. “When it’s important, that’s just what you do.” Like most professional athletes, Hampton will put

Hometown Living At Its Best

in the practice to achieve success, not only for herself but for her son Kason, every night. “It is hard. It’s a balancing act-to juggle Kason’s roping and business. We figure out a way to do it because we still love to rope,” said Hampton. “It’s something that we can do together,” explaining that she grew up doing just what she is doing with Kason. “We all did it together. Our family always helped. We didn’t know any other way. We figured out a way to make it happen,” Hampton commented. “We do whatever it takes.” Ricky steps up so that JJ can still rodeo, working the chute every night. “He drives us like crazy. We rope as many calves as we want,” she said. “He (Kason) has progressed a lot, ropes every day at home. I don‘t want to miss him getting better. I will do whatever I can.” “You work for this stuff for your whole life. We all shared horses. Whatever the other needed, we stepped up and helped the other succeed,” said Hampton.

A DIFFERENT FOCUS Growing up, even though she was part of a roping family, success in roping wasn’t immediate. While she practiced daily, with both brother and sister, under the coaching of her father, Johnny Wayne, Hampton struggled to ‘catch’. “Dad never thought I would make it in roping. I couldn’t catch. I didn’t get consistent until college. Once I won my first average buckle, my roping progressed; I didn’t give up.” She hung out with her grandfather, Johnnie Hampton, her whole life, and she fondly remembers all the ro-

“God blessed me with something.”

Erath County Living

“Rodeo gives me something that money can’t buy.” deos he went with her, even going to college rodeos. His encouragement helped form her attitude about winning in and out of the arena. “I had special bond with Johnnie (Papa) Hampton. He was my person. He told me I could do anything. Papa was my biggest fan. When I would leave for a rodeo, Pappa would say “Burn it on’em bird.” Hampton’s eighteen world titles did not come from setting lofty goals to win world titles. Her game plan is different than most. She will tell you she is very driven. “My goal is to win every rodeo. I don’t look way ahead, I just go to every rodeo to win it and let chips fall where they may,” she explained. Hampton’s world titles include six All-Around Cowgirl titles, four in tie down calf roping, four in breakaway roping and four in team roping as a header. She also adds nine United Professional Rodeo Association titles and twelve Cowboys Professional Rodeo Association titles to the mix. In 2020, she was a Wrangler National Finals breakaway roper qualifier. She is happy to see that breakaway roping is getting the recognition it is. “It’s crazy how breakaway roping has progressed.” Her love for the sport doesn’t equate to how many times she goes to the pay window. “Rodeo gives me something that money can’t buy.” Amidst all her awards, there is one memory that stands out. “In 1999, I won all four events. It was surreal to me. I had never won them all. I got choked up when I thought about what I had done.” Perhaps one of the most important trophies hanging in her office is the plaque awarded to her as an inductee into the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame. “It’s kind of surreal to realize what you have done is good enough to be included. What an honor to be included among all of these greats? It’s pretty cool,” Hampton acknowledged. She added that she has accomplished something that her family and future generations to

come will be able to look upon with pride. Yet, that is just one hall of fame in which Hampton is a member. She is a member of the Tarleton State University Rodeo Hall of Fame, the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, and the Cowboy Capital Walk of Fame. Hampton admitted she encountered struggles while competing. But her determination to be the best she could be, kept her motivated. “I wasn’t going to let my struggles keep me from doing the best I could do. I am living proof that if you set your mind to something you can do it. God blessed me with something.” explained Hampton.

“Let your work speak for yourself. I am not a bragger. It’s not who I am. I let my work and roping do its own talking.”

“You have to know you can do it. You run your own race, and I promise it’s good enough. God made us and how we are and put us where we for a reason,” Hampton commented. Hampton relays this message when she does public speaking engagements to both children and adults. “If you don’t believe in yourself, who is going to? These things are possible if you believe.” At the end of the day, Hampton doesn’t need a crystal ball to foretell her future. She continues to compete, even though she will adjust her schedule to accommodate her family. She is secure in where she is going and the work she is accomplishing. “I don’t see myself doing anything else.” “Let your work speak for itself. I am not a bragger. It’s not who I am. I let my work and roping do its own talking,” stated Hampton. ECL

Hometown Living At Its Best

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M ADE BY HAND,

Blessed by God! 16

Erath County Living

Hometown Living At Its Best

the

and the Players Written by Lindsay Allen Photos provided by the Doty Family

laying football every Friday night is a memory many hold and cherish, but for Coach Sterling Doty, it’s not only a memory, but also a present reality.

Erath County Living

Hometown Living At Its Best

In high school, Coach Doty was part of the 1998 and 1999 back-to-back state championship teams and now gets to coach some of the sons of his high school teammates.

The Stephenville High School football coach grew up in Erath County playing for the Yellow Jackets and in 2019, returned to take the head coaching position after coaching at Abilene and Magnolia ISDs. “It’s a special place and that is why we came back. My wife was born and raised here, and we feel blessed to serve, coach and lead in the same town where we were both molded into the people we are today,” he said. Following high school graduation, Coach Doty headed to West Point Military Academy to play football, but transferred half way through his sophomore year when the opportunity to play for his high school coach, Art Briles, at the University of Houston presented itself. The football program was going through a turnaround when Art was brought in and went on to win the conference championship – something Coach Doty fondly remembers. Coach Doty, who moved to Stephenville when he was 11 years old, recalls his hesitancy about the move. His dad, a rodeo coach, had just accepted a position with Tarleton State University and his only knowledge of the area was that Mazzio’s Pizza had a great game room Coach Doty said with a laugh as he thought about his trips to Stephenville with his dad prior to their move. Now he can’t imagine being anywhere else as he and his wife, Mandi, a Stephenville ISD P.E. teacher, raise their own four Yellow Jackets (Cooper, 12, Kipton, 10, Cohen, 6 and KJ, 20 months). In high school, Coach Doty was part of the 1998 and 1999 back-to-back state championship teams and now gets to coach some of the sons of his high school teammates. As a center and left guard during his three years on the varsity team, Coach Doty grew to admire and appreciate his coaches and the impact they made not just on a football team, but the young people on the team. “It was the influence of my high school coaches that led me to coaching today. I knew early on that I wanted to coach youth and build their character as they played, what I believe, to be the best team sport in the world,” Coach Doty shared. Knowing that only seven percent of high school football players go on to play at the next level, Coach Doty and his staff view their job of mentoring youth just as important as preparing them for Friday night games. “We are here to support these players when it comes to their academics, their friendships and family life. We have the ability to impact these players and that is why I got into the business and why I’ll stay in the business for the long haul,” Coach Doty continued, “My staff coaches hard, but loves harder. We are focused on these players

and ultimately want to grow great men, husbands and fathers for the community.” The Yellow Jackets carry a sign with them to every game that says, “48 minutes to play and a lifetime to remember.” As Coach Doty describes it, “This sign and thought process was brought in with Coach Briles when he first got the job in 1988 and we take it with us everywhere we go. It is a daily reminder that all your hard work is worth it, and you will remember the days for the rest of your life. The game we love is 48 mins and the plays we make will last forever; it is a special bond that is created that lasts a lifetime." If you hang around the Yellow Jacket field or in the locker room, you will most likely hear Coach Doty reminding his players that if they want to play at next level, they have to play great at their current level and control what they can – which is their work ethic and

“My staff coaches hard, but loves harder. We are focused on these players and ultimately want to grow great men, husbands and fathers for the community.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

attitude – on a daily basis. “I stress to my players that if they are working toward being the best Yellow Jacket in Stephenville, the rest will take care of itself. Being the best Yellow Jacket is not just about athletics, but academics too.” In fact, Coach Doty and his staff stress the three C’s to their players; classroom, community and competition, because they know their job extends far beyond the field and scoreboard, but weighs heavily on the need to develop strong character traits and good citizens. Football is a sport that requires selflessness, according to Coach Doty. “You have 11 players on the field and each one on the field has a job to do and you have to trust each other and work toward the common goal, both on and off the field. You can’t get very far if you are focused on yourself in this game.” While the head coach position certainly keeps him busy, Coach Doty enjoys time at home with his family and attending games for his older sons. “Our kids love anything with a ball and are competitive...even board games become intense at our home,” he said with a laugh,

“I stress to my players that if they are working toward being the best Yellow Jacket in Stephenville, the rest will take care of itself. Being the best Yellow Jacket is not just about athletics, but academics too.”

Erath County Living

and in the rare moments he gets a break, he enjoys going to the movies with Mandi, listening to live music and spending time with extended family that live in the area too. The family/work life balance extends beyond Coach Doty though. “We have a great staff who values their time with family and children and finds the balance. When you love what you do, it’s not really work. We get up early and work late, but we all know we have to be great husbands and fathers at home before we can come to work. That is why my staff and I will miss meetings and events if our kids have a game. We have to get “it” right at home before we can get “it” right at work,” he said. Heading into the 2021 football season, Coach Doty is optimistic despite the talented senior class that graduated earlier in the year and the challenging district that Stephenville constantly finds itself in. “We have big shoes to fill this fall, but we have a group of players that are able to do it and believe in themselves and trust our program and I’m looking forward to watching them play,” he said. ECL

When you love what you do, it’s not really work. Hometown Living At Its Best

Erath County Living

By Lindsay L. Allen

New Braunfels

In a state filled with beautiful landscapes, people of all backgrounds, festivals to celebrate every occasion, and unique sunsets painting every evening skyline, one never has to leave the state of Texas to create memories that last forever and what makes them so special.

t’s the perfect summer getaway. All ages are welcome in the town of New Braunfels and everyone is promised to receive a bronze tan during their stay. Half the fun of visiting this river town in the hill country is the journey there. For those driving south toward the river, there are plenty of stops that are almost required for any Texan wanting the full experience of heading to Comal County.

No need to grab a generic breakfast sandwich at a fast-food place on your trip to New Braunfels, the town of West has you covered. Their famous Czech kolaches will be advertised for miles before you reach the two most famous places to pull over and grab a bite. Both offer fruit and meat kolaches, along with cookies, fudge and other grab-n-go foods and sweets, but Slovaceks offers the best meat kolaches, while the Czech Stop offers the best fruit kolaches. Can’t decide? Don’t worry - Slovaceks is easier to access on your way to the river and the Czech Stop is easiest to access (and open 24/7) on your way back to the north Texas area. No one says you can’t stop going and coming – it is vacation after all! Make sure you allow time for a stop in the town of Buda to visit the Cabela’s, where everyone can find something. Once you are back on the road, you can start counting down till you hit San Marcos, located just a few miles ahead of New Braunfels. Fuego Tortilla Grill will offer a perfect and quick lunch stop to make sure ev-

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eryone is energized and fueled for the weekend ahead. While everything on the menu is noteworthy, the I-Chee-Wa-Wa, Fuego Steak and The King will be the tacos you want to make sure are on your order. It’s hard to pass through San Marcos and not stop at the Premium Outlets and the Tanger Outlets, located across from each other. Warning, the outlet malls are not your typical outlets and it is recommended that to best maximize your time you look at the mall directories and know what stores are a “must visit” and where they are exactly located.

New Braunfels is home to many options for family fun - many involving days in the water. Schlitterbahn has been voted the world’s best water park more than 20 times and boasts two options for visitors - the “old” and “new” sides of the park with a shuttle service between them. The “old” side will offer longer, more relaxing rides, while the “new” side can satisfy any speed demons’ desires. Both sides use water from the river to operate a majority of their water slides. For those planning on spending the entire day at the park, make note that an ice chest full of lunches and snacks can be brought in and to receive a discount on your entrance fee, visit the local grocery store where discounts can often be found on soda cans or coupons are located at the check-out. If you are visiting the water park, it’s worth looking into the Schlitterbahn cabins and resort stays, which allows you to stay on site overnight and have a totally different water park experience than most can claim. No trip to New Braunfels is complete without a float down the Comal or Guadalupe rivers either. Many river floating companies are ready to rent you a tube and offer shuttle rides to the drop in and pick-up locations along either river. One piece of advice – ask how long the float is when finding the company, you want to use. Floats can last anywhere from 60 to 120+ minutes; it just depends on where you get in at. If you would rather hang out on the banks of the river all day, visit Landa Park. The 51acre park offers access to not only the Comal River, but also Landa Lake. Paddleboats, trails, miniature golf, playground and a miniature train ride can all be part of your day at Landa Park as well. If you chose to sit on the riverbank of the Guadalupe River, public entrance and exits can be found at River Acres Park and Cypress Bend Park. Whether you chose to float with a river company, sit on the river banks all day or bring your own float, be sure and pack a cooler. Just remember that the river rules are clear that no glass is allowed on the water. For an even more unique experience on the water, visit The Float In restaurant where you can order a burger and beer, but also spend your time in the water while there.

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It’s hard to say you have been to New Braunfels if you overlooked the historic district of Gruene on your visit. The small area on the river has wonderful restaurants, shopping, hotels and entertainment. Whether your time is short or plenty, your time in Gruene must include dinner at the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar*, followed by a beer and dancing at Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall with live daily music. The Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar is located in the ruins of an old cotton gin and situated alongside the Guadalupe River with views and an atmosphere that words can’t describe. You may have to wait for a table, but the beer garden or surrounding shops will be the perfect past time until you can be seated. *You can’t go wrong with your order at the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar, but the tomatillo chicken, chicken fried steak and onion rings are highly recommended.

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The New Braunfels area offers many accommodations, including your usual hotel offerings. But for a unique experience, consider renting a home or condo on the river, staying in the many tree houses or teepees available for rent or booking a stay at a historic hotel in Gruene. What are you waiting for? Grab your swimsuit and enjoy your perfect summer weekend.

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COWBOY CAPITAL OF THE WORLD STEPHENVILLE, TX

BUILDING OUR OWN COMMUNITY ONE PERSON AT A TIME

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. Convenience and comfort set a standard of living at 4c’s Rodeo Ranch. This wonderful community is not only ideally located but includes a number of amenities and systematically placed lots to create the perfect place for you to call home. 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.If you see yourself enjoying the western lifestyle that includes all the amenities at the highest quality, then we welcome you to 4c’s Rodeo Ranch! If you would like to explore our ever growing community then schedule a tour today!

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NO TIME FOR

THE ROCKING CHAIR By Rick Mauch Photos by Eric Priddy Photography

harly Crawford is retiring from roping on the pro rodeo circuit. But don’t expect to find him sitting on a porch in a rocking chair - unless he’s pausing to catch his breath during a hard day of work or trying to keep up with his family. “I’ve heard people say when you retire you die. That’s not the case in this situation,” Crawford said. “My retirement is from daylight to dark.” Only 43, Crawford is still among the elite in his profession. He has career earnings of almost $1.5 million. In 2020 he was ranked sixth in the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo standings and 11th in the overall world standings.

At the age of only 43, Crawford is still among the elite in his profession. He has career earnings of almost $1.5 million. In 2020 he was ranked sixth in the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo standings and 11th in the overall world standings. Hometown Living At Its Best

Crawford qualified for what he said would be his final NFR in 2020. He and partner Logan Medlin won one round and placed in two others as Crawford’s last appearance at the elite event became one of his career highlights. And he’s had plenty of highlights, including qualifying for the NFR 10 times (2005-07, 2009-10, 201214, 2017, 2020). “When I won Pendleton (Roundup in Pendleton, Oregon), that was one I’ll never forget. You go back through the highlights and look at my first NFR, doing a dirt angel in the Thomas and Mack Center (in Nevada),” he recalled. “You could hardly see the stands for the fireworks that were going on during the National Anthem and grand entry. “And last year, being able to have my family onstage (at the NFR).” Originally from Cambie, Oregon, Crawford now lives in Stephenville with his wife Jackie Hobbs-Crawford, a three-time Women’s Professional Rodeo Association all-

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“ I remember we were hauling butt, passing people on the left side and the right side, getting there, screeching to a halt, jumping out of the car, getting on a calf and winning the round,” he said. “I remember thinking this is the most fun, like an adrenaline rush.

around champion. They’ve been married since 2013 and have two children together, newborn daughter Journey and 4-year-old son Creed. Crawford also has a daughter, 16-year-old Kaydence, he brought into the marriage. Crawford reflected on growing up in a horse family. His father was also a competitor and well-respected horse trainer, which also introduced Charly to the sport he would quickly learn to love. “My dad was good with horses. He had good heel horses a lot of the guys wanted. A lot of the time when those guys would come I got to hang out with them, like Mike Beers and Leo Camarillo,” he reminisced. Crawford recalled a time when he and Beers were racing to an event in St. Paul, Minnesota after having competed elsewhere earlier in the same night. “I remember we were hauling butt, passing people on the left side and the right side, getting there, screeching to a halt, jumping out of the car, getting on a calf and winning the round,” he said. “I remember thinking this is the most fun, like an adrenaline rush. “Victory laps are still one of the most fun things ever.”

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In fact, it was Beers who helped launch Crawford’s career, competing as his partner in 2004. A year later Crawford finished 10th in the world standings and he was well on his way. Crawford plans to put even more time into a nonprofit he and Jackie have helped over the past few years, Building Homes for Heroes. The organization was started after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001 and is dedicated to exactly what the name says, helping those who protect this nation by gifting them homes. To date, they have gifted hundreds of homes to those in the military and their families. “It started eight or nine years ago when Jackie and I were coming home from Pendleton. We went through Albuquerque. There must have been a military base there somewhere,” he said. “There was this military group of guys sitting right beside us. We bought their lunch and we got to talking on the way home. We wondered what could we do for these guys who are sacrificing their lives? “The only thing I had to offer was a roping school. We started doing a free clinic at the house. The town got behind. So we decided, let’s join a nonprofit where we can help someone else, hopefully change their lives. Building Homes for Heroes caught our eye.”

Crawford hasn’t ruled out continuing to compete some. However, chasing berths in the NFR are a thing of the past.

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Crawford’s father served in the Marine Corps, so he’s always had an appreciation for the military. “My thought was can you imagine if there’s a Gold Star family out there that lost their husband and father and wasn’t able to make ends meet?” he said. “The government doesn’t take care of them. That’s our job.” As part of that the American Military Celebration was born. It’s grown from a three-day event to five now. “It’s overwhelming the support we’re getting from sponsors and people. I want this thing to grow, to be huge,” Crawford said. “I want every military person that’s ever owned a horse or swung a rope, I want them there. This is their way, their week. “The vision where we can take this thing feels like the moon. Maybe we can have a Battle of the Branches.” Crawford hasn’t ruled out continuing to compete some. However, chasing berths in the NFR are a thing of the past, he reiterated. He is considering competing some in the World Champions Rodeo Alliance. “I’d like to have a little time off at the end of this year and see if I can peak out before The American (in Arlington), have a chance to do good there,” he said. As for competing in the WCRA, he said, “It helps me with my schools and lessons (teaching roping). I’m able to keep growing with my horsemanship, and I’m able to compete and understand a lot of the things some of the ropers that come to me need help going through, which is being a husband, having kids, having a job and trying to compete. It helps me kind of grow also as an instructor.” And, of course, he’ll be there alongside Jackie as her career continues to soar, he said. “My role, I feel, is best in continuing to do schools and lessons, keep this place going,” he said. “She can go rope and rodeo, and I can keep the stress level for her to a minimum. “Her career has taken off and just gets stronger and stronger every year in the breakaway.” With both being among the best at their profession, is there competition in the household? You bet, and Crawford loves it. “It’s competition all day long. You’re always getting better around here, and I love that,” he said. Most of all, Crawford said he is looking forward to being with his family more.

Most of all, Crawford said he is looking forward to being with his family more.

“This is why I’m down here. Getting to haul Kaydence around, showing her how to win. Being a dad it’s always nice to be needed, and I’m right there,” he said. “To compete on a part-time basis is fine, but to be here and do schools, be in my own house, be around my kids, watch them grow, that’s a dream come true for me. “I want to see how my kids grow and what they do with their careers, to make sure they have an opportunity to be as successful as they want to be. I’ll be able to watch the family compete.” ECL

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Stephenville

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CARTER LEE On April 20, 2020, the world lost a light but gained an inspiration whose influence has only grown and continues to grow and touch lives since his loss. Carter Sharp’s legacy lives forever.

“He was just a little boy, but he made our world go ‘round.” – Adam Sharp

BY CASSIDY ROBINSON PHOTOS PROVIDED BY VALERIE RANSPOT AND THE SHARP FAMILY

n April 20, 2020, the world lost a light but gained an inspiration whose influence has only grown and continues to grow and touch lives since his loss. Carter Sharp, son to Emily and Adam Sharp, was a “huge little boy, he totally skipped the baby phase and went straight to being a big boy,” his parents say. Adam says that until he was gone his family did not realize how much Carter did to hold their little family together. “He was just a little boy, but he made our world go ‘round.” Carter is one of the four children of the Sharp family. His two older brothers served as his role models, and he was especially close to Ty (9), the middle brother of the family. Adam says that Ty was his “ride or die” who Carter gravitated towards. His older sister Ella (13) and eldest brother Duram (10) all loved him dearly. Carter loved his siblings and loved his family.

Emily says that Carter was constantly smiling, constantly laughing and cracking jokes. Emily states, “Even a year later, I still have people come up to me and tell me little things that Carter did or said that impacted them. He was just so special, and everyone could sense that.” His motto and saying was “Be happy to me,” something his father and mother say constantly to put them in check. “Carter was special,” Adam says. “He was very spiritually and emotionally in tune with the Lord and the people around him. After a long day at work I could come home and be tired and irritable and Carter noticed. He would tell me, ‘be happy to me daddy,’” Adam said with a little break in his voice. It is this motto that characterizes just who Carter was: a happy, very loving, and God-fearing little boy. Emily says that Carter was the “missing piece… he is what completed our family.” His brown hair and big

Hometown Living At Its Best

ISR’s mission and motto is “Not one more child drowns.”

eyes could win any heart, but it was his attitude towards life that has made a lasting impact on those that were able to be around him. In April, Carter was in a drowning accident that ultimately cost his life and left a gaping hole in the hearts of the Sharp family, but his legacy lives on strong. Carter’s loss has inspired family member and wife to cousin of Adam Sharp, Valerie Ranspot, to start teaching swimming lessons through ISR. Through ISR, Valerie has started teaching life-saving skills to children to prevent them from drowning. ISR™ stands for Infant Swimming Resource™ and was founded in 1966 by Dr. Harvey Barnett, Behavioral Psychologist. Dr. Barnett was a lifeguard at the local pool, and after his neighbor drowned, he realized there had to be a different way to educate young children about water safety. He asked God for wisdom to find a different way for infants to survive the water, and through research and effort, founded ISR in 1966. The #1 cause of accidental death in children (ages 1-4) today is drowning. Valerie stated, “We think it’s not going to happen to us, but unfortunately it happens to even the best parents,” and the Sharp family is a testament to that. Valerie said that after Carter passed, she was reminded of this fact and decided to take action. Valerie is a mother

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as well and said, “My youngest child is four and we had a pool, and although she loved the water and she was happy, I knew if she ever got to the water alone, she wouldn’t have a chance.” For almost six weeks Valerie drove every day to ISR for lessons and was amazed at how much she and her daughter learned. Valerie says that most parents are wary of swim lessons because of the horror stories behind them, such as babies being flung into pools, but this is not the case for lessons through ISR. She as a parent chose ISR because of the research and psychology that backs it. ISR has some of the highest safety standards in the industry, and parents and children go through a thorough review of the child’s history to ensure safe lessons. ISR bases their lessons on behavioral psychology and it’s just another safety net that ensures infants and parents get the most out of the program and do it safely. Valerie says, “It’s all about creating layers of safety. There is no way to fully prevent drowning, but we can prepare children to survive if they should happen to reach the water alone.” ISR’s mission and motto is “Not one more child drowns.” Valerie says, “We just want kids to be safe. Turning your back on a child for even a few seconds can result in drowning.”

Today, Valerie has taken the measure and intensive training to conduct her own ISR lessons and her mission and motto is, “For Carter Lee.” Valerie says that she was inspired to do this so that Carter’s death isn’t in vain. “We don’t want other families to go through this. It happens so fast and it’s so silent.” The Sharp family, through Adam’s work (Waste Connections™), is working on a foundation in honor of Carter. They plan to have the foundation up and running by Summer 2021. The main focus of the foundation will be to bring awareness to parents about the dangers of water and putting proceeds towards children being able to attend lessons through ISR. Emily says, “So many people go through this that don’t talk about it; we want to save those families from going through what we have gone through.” After Carter’s death, the Sharp family had several members commit their lives to Christ, and also because of him, many other children’s lives will be saved through the efforts of ISR. Carter’s legacy lives on. 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 ernational 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 Hometown Living At Its Best

The Main Thing is the

MAIN STREET By Lindsay L Allen Photographs provided by Sarah Matai

Erath County Living

When you think of charm and community in a town, you may think of Main Street. Main Street in almost any town offers stories and a place for fellowship, it’s also a place for economic activity and the starting point for growth in a town.

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When you think of charm and community in a town, you may think of Main Street. Often the focus in television shows, movies and books, Main Street in almost any town offers stories and a place for fellowship. It’s also a place for economic activity and the starting point for growth in a town. Understanding all this and more is why the City of Stephenville is excited to be part of the Texas Main Street program. The program is an economic strategy for volunteer-supported, downtown revitalization in the context of historic preservation. Since 1980, Texas has been working with local communities to carry out the Main Street objectives and focus areas and was the first state in the country to do this at a local level. After being admitted into the program in January 2021, Stephenville is now the 88th designated Main Street community in the state and the only town admitted into the program this year. As a designated community, Stephenville contractually agrees to use local dollars to fund both a Main Street position and programming and just like the other designated Main Streets will launch a preservation-based downtown revitalization program utilizing the volunteer-driven Four-Point Approach™. The Four-Point Approach includes a focus on architecture/ urban design/preservation, economic development/ small business development, promotions/digital media/

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Constructed in 1892 by J. Riley Gordon, the Erath County Courthouse is one of 12 still standing of the 18 courthouses he designed.

messaging and organizational development (program capacity/work planning/volunteer management). Being accepted into the program doesn’t happen overnight, as you can imagine. “In 2017 Stephenville’s Downtown Historic District was included in the National Register of Historic Places, and we were fortunate to have had access to the historic research previously done by Tarleton State University professor Dr. T. Lindsey Baker and his students,” Sarah Matai, manager of Main Street for the City of Stephenville, continued, “This information was pertinent for Stephenville receiving the Main Street designation, as the Main Street program area is the same footprint as the National Register of Historic Places District.” The Texas Historical Commission has supported preservation-based downtown revitalization for over 40 years through the Texas Main Street program. The City of Stephenville is in the process of a Downtown Revitalization plan and the Main Street operational model will help sustain an economically impactful plan over time. “The Texas Main Street program offers a road-map for locally owned, locally driven prosperity,” Sarah pointed out. The Revitalization plan for the City of Stephenville gives insight to what the vision is for downtown. “We are fortunate that we were designated a Main Street City at the same time as the City of Stephenville’s Downtown Revitalization plan is in progress. Main Street gives us resources that will help us maintain our community’s historic nature as we work on the plans to improve the future of our downtown. They have already offered advice that will have a positive impact on the plans for downtown and they are excited about our plans,” Sarah shared. When Allen Barnes, Stephenville City Manager, moved to Stephenville he brought with him his love for how the program improved the City of Gonzales, his previous employer, and wanted the same for his new town, which led to the application submission and thus, acceptance! “Through the program, Stephenville will have access to considerable resources through the Texas Main Street office, as well as Main Street networks. This includes professional expertise provided to downtown property and business owners in areas of

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sees itself. It is a critical factor in business retention design, preservation, downtown-specific economic and recruitment efforts. When outside individuals development, organizational management and and businesses look at Stephenville as a possible small business development, as well as being able location, or re-location, they examine many aspects to showcase districts on the Texas Main Streets including quality of proprietary website life and the overall (DowntownTX.org),” economic health of Sarah shared. our community. A The Main The City of Stephenville strong and vibrant Street program is a is in the process of a downtown makes our department under the city somewhere people City of Stephenville Downtown Revitalization want to live and visit,” and will be an ongoing plan and the Main Street Sarah pointed out. effort for years to As Sarah begins come. As the Main operational model will help developing the strategy Street manager, Sarah sustain an economically and execution for Main is responsible for impactful plan over time. Street, she will seek to coordinating activities keep the focal point of within the downtown Stephenville’s historic or Main Street District district focused on and is also responsible the beautiful Erath for the development, County Courthouse and ensuring its historic conduct, execution and documentation of the integrity remains intact. Constructed in 1892 by Main Street program. She will also create strategic J. Riley Gordon, the Erath County Courthouse is partnerships with community stakeholders and one of 12 still standing of the 18 courthouses he guide the organization as the objectives evolve. designed. Another key area of interest for Sarah will “Downtown is a reflection of how our community

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Downtown is a reflection of how our community sees itself. It is a critical factor in business retention and recruitment efforts. be maintaining and protecting the 23 blocks of beautiful historic buildings, many of which have retained their original appearance over the years. “As a Stephenville native I’m most excited to be able to tie Stephenville’s past to the future through the Main Street 4-point approach. I know what Downtown Stephenville has been in the past and I’m thrilled to see what the future holds!” Sarah stated. Stephenville is already a town full of history, charm and community, but by focusing on Main Street, the city can protect the future economic development and provide citizens just one more reason to be proud of their hometown. ECL

The City of Stephenville is currently accepting applications for a Main Street Advisory Board. All are welcomed to apply by visiting stephenvilletx.gov to apply and/or for more information on the program. There will also be volunteer opportunities for various Main Street events and activities in the future.

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A grant recipient of the Dublin Economic Development Corporation • 104 S Patrick St • Dublin, TX • 76446 Hometown Living At Its Best

SEE A

NEED FILL A

NEED The Weiss family has emergency response in its DNA Written by Karen Wright Photos by Danielle Meador Photography and provided by the Weiss family

The Weiss family is made up of first responders for many generations back. They opened the Dublin museum as a tribute to first responders.

t won’t be the traditional “Take Your Child to Work Day” when Eddy Weiss invites his son, Jonathan, to come along. Their destination won’t be a comfortably air-conditioned office. In fact, comfort of any kind likely will be hard to come by. Their destination will be a scene of mayhem and probably large-scale destruction and perhaps injury and death anywhere in the United States. It will be some place devasted by disaster – natural or manmade.

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But Jonathan and his seven siblings are accustomed to the chaotic lives of first responders. Not only have the Weiss kids grown up with parents who are both emergency responders, but they were born into a multi-generational family of first responders – literally documented back to 1640 for Eddy and 1795 for his wife, Brandi. “One of the first words I learned was legacy,” Eddy said. “I grew up in a family where legacy was our focus and I want my kids to understand it. I want them to know where they came from so they can understand where they’re going.

“As a child, I had a bunk bed that I pretended was a firetruck. A frisbee served as the steering wheel. I pretended to respond to every emergency my father was called to, and I spent much of my childhood in my dad’s firehouse. When I was 11, I stood outside a burning building in Chicago and watched my father scale the wall. I literally had ash falling on me. It was life changing.” After becoming a volunteer firefighter, he realized his role would include education, literally saving people from themselves. “It wasn’t the threat of fire; it was the threat of not cleaning their chimney. When a tornado is bearing down on your family, it’s too late to teach protocol. It must be engrained so that response is automatic and smart. To do that, education must precede disaster.” Because of that calling, he has become an internationally known consultant and lecturer on various facets of emergency response, both to adult and young audiences and also to various governmental agencies. He is the author of “Unprecedented” about lessons learned from the 2017 hurricane season, and the soon-to-be-published “The End Without an End: America’s Future in a Post Pandemic World.” Regardless of the nature of the emergency, there is a common thread in the hundreds of disasters he has responded to. “It is the unwavering selfless dedication of men and women who risk everything for people they will likely never meet. “These people are warriors who don’t blink. They are heroes on the frontline of danger. And while their service is recognized by outsiders as well as insiders whose lives they have impacted or perhaps saved, it’s hard to understand the motivation of someone who risks everything. “Our family has wanted for a long time to pay proper tribute to these people and to give them a venue in which they have a voice to be heard and understood.” Their answer is in the heart of Dublin, Texas. Officially named The National Health and Public Safety History Museum, it is known as the Frontline Heroes Museum. The museum idea emerged when Jonathan was 15. He was seriously ill after breathing poisonous gases and wading in contaminated water in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey on the Texas Gulf Coast. As he healed, he became fascinated with his WWII Geiger counters which led to an expanding interest in other things about the war. He started collecting. Then one artifact led to another and at some point, the collection took on a life of its own. “I realized the collection and Jonathan’s passion had gotten out of hand when he started bringing strangers into our home, taking them up the stairs to his bedroom to show what he had. It grew into a massive collection which we took by van to share with area libraries and schools,” Eddy said. “Before long, the collection was too big to be mobile anymore and, if we were to protect the artifacts, we knew we would have to create a permanent home.

“We knew Jon’s passion had gotten out of hand when he began bringing strangers through our house and up to his bedroom to show off his collection.”

Being an artist is kind of like being in the rodeo—they always say you don’t always make a lot of money at it but you have a whole lot of fun.

“A prepared public is the best way to support first responders.”

Erath County Living

“We were living in Iowa and looking at Texas as a possible new home,” Eddy said. “I had been deployed to several natural disasters in Texas and we decided it was a good place to raise a family….and a museum. With five other museums in town, it wasn’t hard to recognize the community’s appreciation of history.” So, from the death and destruction of Hurricane Harvey, fueled by dozens of other disasters to which the Weiss family had responded, a museum dedicated to heroes was born in Dublin. The museum now occupies more than 5,000 square feet of space with rare exhibits collected by Jonathan, now 19, who is the museum curator and, not surprisingly, a trained fireman and EMT. The museum is a tribute to anyone who has ever responded to an emergency, as a professional or otherwise. With 18 exhibit halls, the museum takes visitors on a journey through America’s development of health care, emergency medical care, disaster response, emergency management, firefighting, law enforcement, the Cold War, pharmaceuticals, crime scene analysis and more. “We have collected America’s frontline history under one roof, unlike any other museum in the country,” Eddy said. “There are other museums dedicated to fire or war or EMS, but we have put it all in one place to show the vital relationship of one to the other. You can experience the hands-on exhibits about cardiac care and then just steps away you will see how cardiac care is done in an ambulance.”

“Every first responder in America was impacted by the events and the aftermath of 9-11.” One of the most emotionally powerful exhibits is the 9-11 Chapel, a tribute to the fallen including Eddy’s cousin, David Weiss, a New York City firefighter who died in Tower One of the World Trade Center. The solemn focal point of the chapel is a piece of twisted scorched girder retrieved from the WTC, displayed openly so visitors can touch it. The message of the chapel is a reminder of the tragedy of the day, but also a tribute to how the nation grieved in solidarity on 9-12 without regards to politics. “It is vital to preserve and understand 9-11 because every frontline responder in America was deeply impacted by it, not just those in NYC or Washington or in a field in Shanksville, PA. where I was deployed. Our lives changed on 9-11.” The timing of the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions created havoc with the family’s “best laid plans” -- ironically shutting down the museum on the very morning of its scheduled grand opening. “We made good use of the downtime by continuing to develop new exhibits and expand those that already existed,” Eddy said. “In fact, we developed a pandemic exhibit which includes one of the hospital tents from New York’s Central Park. We even ended up relocating the entire museum up the block to Highway 6 to the former Rotary Building for higher visibility.” Finally, as government-imposed restrictions were loosened, the museum hung out the OPEN sign in early March 2021. “The museum is very much a family project in the same sense that our farm near Lake Proctor is,” he said. “The kids have missions at the farm and at the museum. They start their day feeding goats or chickens and collecting the eggs. Sometimes I will hear them at the museum arguing about whose day it is to sweep because more than one of them wants to do it. Jocelyn laid the floor in the women’s bathroom. And Jayden’s skills include carpentry and plumbing, while he is becoming a capable curator as well. Even Justin, who is almost 1, keeps the kids entertained while 5-year-old Jethro explains secrets of the universe or worries that he has so many ideas in his head that they will leak out his ears.” The Weiss family eats dinner together every night, sometime minus Eddy and Jonathan if they are deployed. Each evening, a designated child asks the other children, “How was your day?” The kids talk about what they did that day and about any obstacles they encountered and emotions they felt. “We are a little like ‘The Blue Bloods’ on TV except we are younger and more chaotic. “ The kids learn life lessons from their animals, as well.

“Texas turned out to be a good place to raise a family and a museum.” Several of the kids wants to go into health care and now caring for goats has been added to their homeschool curriculum. They are learning how to care for another living thing and to accept the responsibilities that go with it. “See a need; fill a need.” A simple philosophy that is the family’s motto. The kids do their mission and then report back to see how to help a sibling complete his mission. “At the start of every day, the children are taught a Biblical principle and they talk about the meaning of a specific word such as integrity, diligence and honor,” explained Eddy, who is an ordained minister. Legacy, that concept that was instilled in Eddy at an early age, isn’t just about winning awards or leaving possessions to your heirs. It includes overcoming adversity, raising resilient children, establishing family values, excelling as a leader, being innovative and more. Those who exhibit bravery leave a legacy of selflessness and courage. It is the mission of the Weiss family to pay tribute to that legacy on behalf of the millions of people who want to say thank you. ECL

Hometown Living At Its Best

Kids Headed Off to College? How to Survive and Embrace It By: Kimberly Blaker

Parents' feelings about their own life without their child's daily presence and parenting responsibilities are often met with a mix of emotions. As you prepare to see your adolescent off to college, you flashback to all your child's milestones, special moments, and fun times you've shared together.

Erath County Living

"Many parents look forward to this point in their lives and the freedom they haven't enjoyed in nearly two decades."

s you prepare to see your adolescent off to college, you flashback to all your child's milestones, special moments, and fun times you've shared together. It feels like only yesterday, your toddler said his or her first word. Soon after, you dropped your child off for the first day of kindergarten, prepared your preteen for puberty, and took your teen shopping for the high school prom. But now, in an instant, your adolescent is headed out into the world, more or less on their own. This is a turning point at which you no longer have much oversight or say in your child's life. It can be both scary and exhilarating for parents and kids alike. Of course, you'll worry about your teen's safety and well-being. But you'll also revel in your young adult's enthusiasm, excitement, and dreams for the future. Parents' feelings about their own life without their child's daily presence and parenting responsibilities are often met with a mix of emotions as well. Many parents look forward to this point in their lives and the freedom they haven't enjoyed in nearly two decades. Some parents may even feel conflicted or guilty for looking forward to 'me' time. At the same time, many parents (even those same parents) feel a sense of loss. After all, they've devoted 18 years to caregiving and raising their child. Many parents lose their sense of self while raising a family. In fact, being a parent can become one's identity. As a result, parents may feel an even more significant loss when their kid heads away to college.

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Survival Tips So how do you survive this transition? Learn to embrace it.

A Heart-To-Heart Write a letter or talk to your adolescent when you see him or her off to college. A letter is best because your kid can save it and reread it to absorb and ponder what you have to say. You've already taught your child the importance of manners and doing their schoolwork. So skip that stuff. Instead, offer wisdom about life and your appreciation for your adolescent's admirable characteristics. Also, avoid dumping on your teen. It's okay to say you're going to miss your kid. But don't overdo it and leave your child feeling guilty or responsible for your pain or loss.

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"Don't let that downtime become an avenue to needlessly worry or mope."

It Gets Easier Remember, whatever grief, loneliness, worries, or self-doubts you experience, they're a natural part of this transition. With each week and month that passes, it'll get easier. One day, you'll wake up and discover you've fully embraced your new life – and feel real joy for your child's newfound independence. ECL

Connection and Space Decide how to maintain communication with your college student. Phone calls, texting, email, video chat, and getting together in person offer ample opportunities to preserve your relationship. But don't overdo it. Your young adult needs time and space to experience their newfound independence and blossom.

Explore You now have a lot more free time. Don't let that downtime become an avenue to needlessly worry or mope. Instead, be proactive and set out on a mission of self-discovery. Have you thought about going back to school, work, or changing your career? Now's a good time to explore your options. How about a new hobby, volunteer work, or focusing on your fitness and health? You can also broaden your horizons. Try out different music genres, visit art and history museums, go to plays and sporting events, or explore cultural restaurants or cooking.

Travel Plan something exciting. Consider a trip to someplace you've always dreamed of going. Or perhaps plan a long road trip or multiple weekend road trips throughout the year. Whatever you choose will help busy your time with the planning, give you something to look forward to, and remind you of the upside of an empty nest or one less child to raise.

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Low Cost, High Reward

Summer Activities Written by Lindsay L Allen

"This is the perfect time to go for a leisurely drive. Roll the windows down and finally go to that restaurant two counties over you have been wanting to try or visit."

2. Make Your Own Popsicles or Cocktail: A quick search on the Internet and you can be concocting your own popsicle or cocktail (depending on your age) …or combine the two and make a wine popsicle! For the youngsters, visit your local dollar store for a popsicle mold, lemon-lime soda and gummy bears and just like that – you have all you need for a refreshing and fun summer treat! For the older crowd, take time this summer to make a new mixed drink or start with a simple mix. A little Vodka and cranberry juice may hit the spot or add pineapple, grapefruit or orange juice to take your taste buds to another level!

3. Take the Scenic Route: This is the perfect time to go for a leisurely drive. Roll the windows down and finally go to that restaurant two counties over you have been wanting to try or visit the summer festival, rodeo or concert an hour away that has always sounded fun!

4. Snow Cone Stand:

o matter your age, summer brings with it the feeling of a little less responsibility and a need for a little bit more fun in your schedule. While vacations and time off of work or school are usually the highlights for many during these warm months, there are plenty of other days that beckon us all to enjoy the sunshine and have some fun.

1. Summer Bucket List: Young or old, we all need a plan to help us achieve our goals. Start this summer by making a list of the things you do want to do. Are you hoping to read three books by Labor Day? Want to watch the sunrise and the sunset? Hoping to visit an old friend or make a new recipe or have company over to grill? Research shows that those who write down their goals are much more likely to achieve them…so get to thinking and planning and writing down those goals so that this summer can be productive and memorable!

Erath County Living

Support your local snow cone stand and pick one up to help cool down in the summer evenings. Better yet – take your snow cone with you as you walk around the local park and enjoy the sun setting!

5. Movie Discounts: Check with your local theater to see if they will be showing movie re-runs for $1! This is a great way to finally see the movies you missed in theaters and for a next-to-nothing cost. If re-runs won’t be on the schedule, perhaps there are other promotions you can take advantage of…. half price popcorn nights, matinee prices, bring your own candy nights and more!

6. Museums: Figure out what museums are around your town or the neighboring counties and make plans to go! Many offer additional activities during the summer, like happy hours, live music or free days for children.

7. Parks and Recreation: Check in with your local parks and recreation department to see what fun they have lined up this summer. Many cities offer fireworks shows for Independence Day, food truck nights, live music and more! Maybe your area doesn’t have the fun you were hoping for, so check in with the neighboring towns and counties to see how you can spend your summer nights and weekends!

Invite the neighborhood kids over for a ''bring your own water gun'' fight and provide some water balloons for an epic day of getting wet and having fun!

8. Water Fight: Invite the neighborhood kids over for a “bring your own water gun” fight and provide some water balloons for an epic day of getting wet and having fun! Have an old tarp in the garage? Add some dish soap and leave the water hose running on the tarp for a homemade slip-n-slide that will create memories for all ages!

9. Movie Marathon: Dust off the DVDs you have been meaning to watch and grab your favorite candy/junk food at the store and make plans with your family or friends to stay up late watching back-to-back movies! Make it an event by playing trivia games associated with each movie or having a contest for those who wish to dress in theme/costume for the movies.

10. Geocache: Geocaching is a great way to explore, be active and have fun! It’s an outdoor scavenger hunt that sends you on a hunt for the geocache where you can usually sign your name and/or take a treasure and leave a treasure for the next geocacher. For a list of nearby geocaches and to learn more, visit geocaching.com.

11. Nail Spa: For the ladies, treat yourself to a DIY nail salon. Pick up a new polish, play some relaxing music, warm a hand towel and slice cucumbers for your eyes and sip on infused water for a relaxing evening that leaves you with summer ready nails!

12. Live Music: Many restaurants and venues take advantage of summer nights and offer live music. Brainstorm places you know with a patio and visit their website or give them a call to see what their entertainment schedule looks like!

13. Grill Out: Hotdogs and hamburgers are the chosen food for these warm months – fire up the grill and invite the neighbors over for dinner on the back porch.

14. Stargaze: Make plans to sit under the stars for an evening and listen to the summer sounds while gazing at the sky and enjoying the “stillness” we rarely experience in this day and age.

15. Camping: Pack up your tent and s’mores and head out for a weekend to enjoy nature and a little bit of “no cell service.”

16. Be Creative: Remember the painted rock movement? Paint rocks with words of encouragement and place them around town for others to find in order to bring hope and smile to local citizens. You can also grab sidewalk chalk and decorate your neighborhood driveways, park paths and other town areas to bring some color and fun to those you live around!

17. Discount Days: Find out when the local water park, bowling alley, fitness gyms and more offer discounted days or events and make plans to participate!

18. Try Something New: Pack up your tent and s'mores and head out for a weekend to enjoy nature and a little bit of ''no cell service.''

Find a new resturaunt or cuisine in your area and try their happy hour or full menu! A little adventure for the taste buds never hurts!

19. Pajama Day: While summer is meant to be spent outside, it can be fun to take a day and make it your goal to not leave the house and to stay in your pajamas all day! Enjoy the time to recharge with no agenda!

20. State Parks: Visit your local state park to swim, hike, bike, picnic or fish!

Hometown Living At Its Best

REMEMBERING

THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE By Janette Halliday Photos provided by Janette Halliday and the Corp of Cadets

To give honor and remembrance through selfless acts can take many forms. At Tarleton State University, the ROTC Corp of Cadets has chosen one form of remembrance in honor of Tarleton alumni.

Erath County Living

o give honor and remembrance through selfless acts can take many forms. At Tarleton State University, the ROTC Corp of Cadets has chosen one form of remembrance in honor of Tarleton alumni. Their chosen memorial activity involves themselves in marching in the Bataan Death March in White Sands, New Mexico.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE The Bataan Death march is a memorial for World War II prisoners of war in Bataan, Philippines. The prisoners, in Bataan, Philippines were forced to march throughout the country from camp to camp. A large group of prisoners hailed from New Mexico.

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The history and survivors are close here in the Cross Lieutenant Colonel Lee Evans, Deputy Commandant Timbers area. Evans had a Bataan march survivor and Chief of Staff of the Texan Corps of Cadets at Tarleton that lived across the street from him, a POW from the State University, described the history of the march. Philippines. Evans added another survivor attended the “They marched 60 plus miles, all those captured same church with him and was forthcoming with more POWS’s. This was a major movement with the intent stories of his survival. to kill off as many as “When I was working possible. They were savage in Philippines for two in treating the POW’s. “Teams train all year to demonstrate years, I walked the Bataan marchers were teamwork. It is an event to train for. grounds and got that not given food or water; they were beaten and The whole training part is a different feeling,” said Evans. However, due to his tortured,” said Evans. story. It’s the pride you get from it,” military duties, Evans “After the war, they had not been able to started to commemorate commented Evans. participate in the march. the Bataan death march That was until he was able survivors,” said Evans. to attend in 2019. “We have a Tarleton survivor, named William Dyess,” said Evans referring to Texas native Lieutenant Colonel William Dyess, who was MARCHING IN HONOR a TSU cadet and Bataan Death March survivor. Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, Texas established in 1942, is Marchers walk 26.2 miles with 32.5 ruck sack on their named in his honor. back. The march, normally held at the White Sands Air

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CADETS LEARN TO FOLLOW, TEACH, COACH, AND MENTOR. Force Base in New Mexico. Due to Covid-19 guidelines and restrictions this year, the march was virtual. A course was established within Erath county with eight member cadet team participating. The last march held at White Sands was in 2019. “There we 18K marchers in that march. I marched with the TSU team in 2019. We had two teams of five,” said Evans. “I was blessed to go do it in 2019.” Tarleton cadets compete in the ROTC division with medals awarded and bragging rights being vied for amongst military college teams from across the United States. The Tarleton State Corp of Cadets has participated off and on since the march’s inception. “The task is to start the march, follow the route and finish the march while carrying 35 pounds.…they can stop however often they want,” commented Evans. “But, they have to finish with all five members. They all have to be within 20 seconds of each other. The virtual event was an app on the phone that tracked their GPS. The team submitted as one team. Everyone is together as long as they are within the 20 second window. We will always compete as a team from Tarleton.”

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MISSION: TO DEVELOP AND INSPIRE RESILIENT, PEOPLE-FOCUSED 21ST CENTURY LEADERS. “Cadets step up and want to participate. Training will naturally take out a weak minded individual. It’s a different course here. It’s as challenging as you can make it,” said Evans. “Teams train all year to demonstrate teamwork. It is an event to train for. The whole training part is a different story. It’s the pride you get from it,” commented Evans. “Cadets step up and want to participate. Training will naturally take out a weak minded individual. It’s a different course here. It’s as challenging as you can make it,” said Evans. The very fact that this march was in a different setting than those held prior, the TSU team set a record, not only for themselves but for TSU. The previous time for competition of the march was 9 hours and 40 minutes. This year, the team clocked in at 7 hours 14 minutes. As the advisor for the team, Evans was absolutely thrilled with this year’s time.

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Evans pointed out many choose to walk as a memorial. “To place there…it’s bragging rights. It echoes through the military services. A lot just march to remember them,” said Evans.

AN INDIVIDUAL ENDEAVOR What makes participation in the Bataan March different from other cadet opportunities? Evans highlighted both leadership and school representation. “This is a cadet endeavor. Cadets are given a responsibility and task. This is an experience that in no other place that they will get otherwise. To be the representative for their university to represent Tarleton State University as the team competing with the Tarleton name behind them,” commented Evans. “Those cadets make people want to support the program. Evans discussed the connection between the team effort and the university, citing how TSU President Dr. James Hurley directed funds from the President Circle Funds to pay in support of the march. “This is directed at supporting student endeavors,” said Evans, adding that the Bataan Death March has been selected since Evans has been at the university.

Evans points out the significance of the support for the cadets by the university administration. “Think about the return on the investment. They (TSU) are going to sponsor a group that will represent the university. Look how hard the individual cadets work from October until April,” said Evans.

MOTIVATION TO MARCH To commit to train and execute a task such as the Bataan March takes more than a normal amount of motivation. The leader of the team, Captain Cameron Lehr described the motivation to participate in the march. “My motivation was to participate for those that were forced to endure the Bataan March and do it in their honor. I also was motivated by leading the group of cadets that strive for the best,” commented Captain Cameron Lehr.

“My motivation was to participate for those that were forced to endure the Bataan March and do it in their honor. I also was motivated by leading the group of cadets that strive for the best,” commented Captain Cameron Lehr.

“The intense training leading up to the march as well as the march itself bonds the cadets. “As the team and I rucked, our bodies fatigued but the motivation was still there and that’s what got us through. I was surprised by the hills around mile 9. Those tested us as a group,” said Lehr. “We have a team camaraderie that worked really well. We bonded through communication and motivation. I would do anything for those guys and they would do the same,” said Lehr, who is no stranger to the march. “This was my third time to do this march and I felt like this year I achieved a level of success I was striving for. It was a great feeling to complete it on this course,” commented Lehr.

THE CORP LIFE Evans points out how being a member of the corp prepares each individual post-graduation. He feels the march is a good example of students getting out what they put in. “They are given advice and a foundation to go forward. You come out and get out what you needed to get out of it. Cadets are looking for direction. When they experience of corp life...the mechanism to address the path each young man or woman is choosing. You can run the gamut on desires you want out of the system. The strength, power and strong mind and strong body and being a leader of character and being one that everyone is going to follow. What they want to get out of it is different,” commented Evans. “When they get through it on the other end, they will all be in the same spot knowing they have an inner strength that was practiced and worked through the corp.” ECL

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Believe Boldly

Paralyzed Perfectionist: how to break the cycle of not-good-enough BY ERICA WILLIS

B E L I E V E B O L D LY. C O M

"Hello. My name is Erica and I am a paralyzed perfectionist."

he year was 1988. My friend and I playfully jumped on a tiny, Jane Fonda-type exercise trampoline. We decided to make the most of our time by multi-tasking, alternating between “feelin’ the burn” and the artistic expression of sequentially drawing a face using crayons and paper. One jump + one facial feature, repeated = a masterpiece. (Just call me “Rembrandt Simmons.”)

Erath County Living

I drew a pretty, egg-shaped head. Nice. JUMP. My friend added the eyes. JUMP. I drew eyebrows. JUMP. She added a triangle-shaped nose. HOLD. UP.

If there is anything that stands in stark contrast to the Christian life, it is perfectionism.

Everyone knows a triangle nose is too harsh! A simple, rounded nose is what this image demanded! I was mortified at her lack of artistic ability and I shook my head disapprovingly. I couldn’t even hang this disaster on the fridge. It was then that I let her know just what I thought of her contribution to our work: I gave her a piece of my mind and tore the picture into tiny shreds. Now, some of you are mortified by my harsh reaction, worried for that girl’s feelings. The rest of you, my sweet darlings, nodding your head in sympathetic understanding of my plight, YOU are PERFECTIONISTS. I used to believe there was a “perfect” way to do everything. Yes, we all have different methods, but I believed only I possessed the “God-ordained, light-fromheaven, chorus-of-angels” plan for whatever we were all trying to accomplish. (It’s almost too ridiculous to write!) It’s no wonder I am paralyzed by perfection! This pressure, a virtual vise clamp around my goals, squeezing tighter until the perfect seal is created, stops me dead in my tracks. My good intentions to create the “best thing EVAH!!” turn into hard-hitting blows that knock the motivational wind right out of me. If there is anything that stands in stark contrast to the Christian life, it is perfectionism. God offers us freedom to color outside the lines and forge our own path. Perfection allows for neither of these! He wants us to be uniquely ourselves, not a clone of someone else’s ideal. Breaking the mold isn’t easy, but when we do, what takes shape is a messy, crayon-scribbled face that God wants to hang on His fridge, pointy nose and all. I have to believe His will is perfect for my life, not the one I create in my mind.

Some of you have big dreams but are paralyzed by perfection, so how do you overcome your fear and start moving? I always try and remember His grace, and extend it to myself. John 1:16 says, “God is full of grace. From him we have all received grace in place of the grace already given.” If God can forgive your imperfections, you can certainly forgive yourself. He doesn’t desire perfection; He desires connection with his daughter. God wants to remind us how small we are and how big He is, keeping us dependent on Him for all things. Our dreams and purpose should not be achieved apart from God. Can we all give up the need to be perfect, and instead be human?

Erica

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Educational Activities for Young Explorers: Places, Activities, and Toys for Active Minds By Kimberly Blaker

Does it seem like every time you turn around, your home has been taken apart by your little explorer? Don’t despair. It may not only result from an extraordinary desire to learn. Who knows, your child may be a future scientist, inventor, or leader in the making.

Erath County Living

oes it seem like every time you turn around; your home has been taken apart by your little explorer? Don't despair. It may only result from an extraordinary desire to learn. Who knows, your child may be a future scientist, inventor, or leader in the making.

Make up a scavenger hunt. Make a list of easy to find items for your small children. Make it more challenging for older kids by providing them with a list of puzzles to solve to determine what items to find. Kids can also create a scavenger hunt for family or friends to try.

BOREDOM BUSTERS

Play restaurant. Have your child make up a restaurant menu with several simple dishes he can prepare. At dinnertime, he can seat the family, take orders, then prepare and serve the meals. (Suggestion: Bring along some reading while you wait).

When your child needs to occupy her creative energy, have her try some of these fun, educational activities. Put together a book of facts on a personal interest such as dinosaurs, insects, rock bands, sports, or astronomy. Clip pictures and descriptions from magazines and Internet printouts. Then trace drawings from books and write about personal experiences with the topic.

Recycling fun. Start a discard collection and teach your kids the importance of recycling and reusing disposable items. Then get their creative juices flowing. Save zippers and buttons from old clothing, plastic containers, fabric strips, packing materials, small scraps of wood, carpet and wallpaper scraps, and more. Then

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Play Thomas Edison. Save old kitchen appliances, computers, DVD players, and other electronics. Give your child a supply of tools such as pliers, screwdrivers, and safety glasses, and let him go to work. Kids love this type of exploration and learn by taking apart and examining the inner workings of electronics. As a word of caution, cut the electrical cord before your child begins to prevent any mishaps. And supervise for sharp parts or mechanisms that could pinch fingers. Create a video. Have your kids make up several humorous tv commercials using household items for props and dressing-up for the part. Once they've rehearsed their skits, set up a video camera and tape their production.

TOYS THAT TEACH

supply your kids with scissors, tape, and glue, and let them go to work. Offer ideas to get your kids started then let them come up with their creations. Make a United States puzzle. Purchase several colors of clay and a United States map. Clip each state from the map, place a state clipping over the rolled-out clay, and trace the shape into the clay with a toothpick. Cut out the shapes then write the name of the state with a pencil tip. Be sure to use a different color of the clay for each neighboring state, and then let the shapes dry or bake according to instructions.

Children can dig for ancient treasures from replicas of dinosaur fossils to Egyptian reliefs. 80

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Keep kids entertained with these educational toys that won’t quickly lose their appeal. Try K’nex, which puts a new twist on building blocks. With K'nex, there are endless possibilities of what a child can create, from dinosaurs and airplanes to roller coasters, space shuttles, and motorized cars. Find K'nex in educational toy stores. Go on a dig. Archaeology excavation kits are found in many educational toy stores or online. Children can dig for ancient treasures from replicas of dinosaur fossils to Egyptian reliefs. Kids also learn about the history behind

These science playlands are great fun for kids and adults alike.

the excavated items through stories included with the kits. Once kids’ interest has been sparked, parents can print out additional articles from encyclopedias or the Internet. Scientific Explorer kits have won several awards. These kits offer a variety of educational activities, experiments, and worksheets. They are available in the following themes: Ancient Greece: The Dawn of Modern Science, Galileo: Renaissance Astronomer and Physicist, Charles Darwin: The Life of a Naturalist, and many others. Look for these kits in gift shops at science museums and in other educational toy shops.

conduct Pre-show "play shops." Kids can explore the performing arts from puppet making to stage make-up and more. Ask about summer arts programs and more. Hands-on science. Visit one of the many hands-on science museums around the country. These science playlands are great fun for kids and adults alike. They’ll keep your child mentally and physically active the whole day through while pushing buttons, winding cranks, playing instruments, experimenting, and building. When everyone is exhausted, enjoy a fun, family science show, the observatory, an IMAX movie, or simulator rides, all commonly found in these museums.

EXPLORATION ON THE GO Are you looking for some new and exciting places to take your kids? Try some of these spots. Art museums offer a variety of activities to spark your kids’ interest. Many offer art and craft workshops, traveling exhibits, book signings by children’s illustrators, and even musical performances and other arts. Head to a natural history museum where kids can discover the past from dinosaur displays and stuffedanimal exhibits to geology collections, ancient mummies, and astronomy. Also, ask what kind of workshops and educational programs are available for kids and any special events that are coming up.

Local places to consider visiting: Doss Heritage & Culture Center 1400 Texas Dr. Weatherford, Tx 76086 dosscenter.org (They also have a Facebook page you can follow for ideas on activities) Weatherford Public Library 1014 Charles St. Weatherford, TX 76086 (Also on Facebook with event list)

Youtheatre. Look for one in your region offering plays for child and family audiences. Area artists and educators

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Stars ACROSS

TEXAS By Lindsay L Allen

The Lone Star State may have one big iconic Texas star on the flag that represents the almost 30 million citizens, but we all know everything is bigger is Texas and that includes the slew of talent too!

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Carol can always be found giving her iconic tug on her left ear, as a way of saying “hello” to her grandmother.

Carol Burnett This San Antonio native, born in 1933, went on to become the television comedian we all loved to watch. Both of Carol’s parents were alcoholics, so her grandmother raised her and the two of them moved to Hollywood where she would later graduate from the University of California with a degree in theater.

he Lone Star State may have one big iconic Texas star on the flag that represents the almost 30 million citizens, but we all know everything is bigger is Texas and that includes the slew of talent too!

The list of famous Texans could go on and on and include names like Selena, Stephen F. Austin, Lady Bird Johnson, Earl Campbell and many more. The stars of Texas are as vast as the state and the following includes a closer look at a few of the iconic stars that were born in this great state.

A.J. Foyt In the field of motocross, A.J. is one of the most iconic names. Born in 1935 in Houston, A.J., also nicknamed, “Super Tex,” went on to become the first four-time winner of the Indianapolis 500 and holds 67 Indy Car wins and seven Indy championships as a driver. He is also the only driver to win the Indy 500, the Daytona 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Despite injuries on the track that ranged from a broken back to burns on his face, A.J. continued to compete and dominate for over six decades. In fact, he was named “Driver of the Century” by the Associated Press Panel and ESPN's RPM 2Night. When he isn’t on a track, A.J. enjoys ranching and hunting and is the father to four grown children with his wife, Lucy.

Her career really began at age 22 and 23 as a foil to a ventriloquist's dummy on the already-established The Paul Winchell Show and as Buddy Hackett's gawky girlfriend on the short-lived sitcom Stanley. But in 1967, The Carol Burnett Show took to the air and became an instant sensation, earning 22 Emmy Awards during its 11-year run. No matter what show she is appearing on, Carol can always be found giving her iconic tug on her left ear, as a way of saying “hello” to her grandmother.

Buddy Holly Born in Lubbock in 1936, Buddy Holly has become a household name. Buddy, whose last name is spelled Holley, became Holly after a contract error that misspelled his last name, went on to become a singer, songwriter and the pioneer of Rock and Roll. With hits such as "Peggy Sue" and "That'll Be the Day," Holly was a rising star when a tragic plane crash struck him down in 1959 at age 22.

At a time when few women worked outside the home, and after being overlooked for promotions in favor of men she had trained, Mary Kay purchased the manufacturing rights to a skin cream and thus began her empire.

In his personal life, Holly proposed on his first date with Maria Elena Santiago, and married her less than two months later in 1958. In his short-lived career, Holly recorded music and paved the way for Rock and Roll, which led to his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Mary Kay Ash The Hot Wells native, born in 1916, used her training in direct sales to create a multi-million-dollar cosmetics firm. At a time when few women worked outside the home, and after being overlooked for promotions in favor of men she had trained, Mary Kay purchased the manufacturing rights to a skin cream and thus began her empire. Believing it was important to reward hard workers, Mary Kay gave away vacations, jewelry, and pink Cadillacs to her top performers. Because of these incentives for her female sales force, the company quickly became a huge success. In fact, every year since 1992, Mary Kay Cosmetics has made Fortune magazine's list of five hundred largest companies. In addition, the company was listed in the book The 100 Best Companies to Work for in America and now employs over 475 thousand people in over twenty-five countries.

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Kathy Baker In 1950 Kathy Baker entered the world in Midland and later went on to make an impact on stage, in films and in television! After graduating from the University of California at Berkeley, Kathy headed to Paris to study culinary arts before returning state side to work as a pastry chef. While she enjoyed the kitchen, she still longed to perform and eventually joined San Francisco's Magic Theatre, where she gained attention and eventually led to her success on screen. Over the years, Kathy has earned numerous Emmys, Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Awards and has been casted in too many shows and movies to name!

He is NFL's 2006 Most Valuable Player Award and he received the Associated Press' Offensive Player of the Year Award.

LaDainian Tomlinson The Rosebud native, born in 1979, is best known for his performance on the football field. After a stellar high school career at University High School in Waco, LaDainian went on to play for Texas Christian University where he set record after record, was a finalist for the Heismen Trophy and recognized as the best college running back. In the 2001 NFL draft, LaDainian was drafted by the San Diego Chargers as the fifth overall pick. He would spend nine seasons with the Chargers before moving to the New York Jets as a free agent, where he played for two seasons before retiring after the 2011 season. At the time of his retirement, he ranked fifth in career rushing yards (13,684), seventh in all-purpose yards (18,456), second in career rushing touchdowns (145), and third in total touchdowns (162) and was NFL's 2006 Most Valuable Player Award and the Associated Press' Offensive Player of the Year Award. The Texas native now resides in California with his wife and enjoys playing golf and video games in his retirement.

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FIGHT FOR THE

THEWIN BY PEGGY FREEMAN AND PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE TEXAN STARS

n 2021, competing on a national level required creative training, good health practices, great courage, and a lot of heart. Tarleton's Texan Cheerleading squad along with the Texan Rider mascot and the Texan Stars Dance team each claimed second-place finishes for 2021 National Cheerleading Association (NCA) and National Dance Alliance (NDA) College Nationals. Second place in a college national competition is to be highly celebrated. However, in 2021 it went beyond excellent athletes competing at the top of their game. In 2021, competing on a national level required creative training, good health practices, great courage, and a lot of heart.

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CHEER TEAM TRIUMPH Founded in 1947, this Texan Cheer Team brought seventy-four years of Tarleton spirit to the 2021 competition. A team of skilled athletes themselves, the Tarleton Cheer Team continues to inspire others by building school spirit and being ambassadors for the university. Finishing up year seven as head coach of the squad, Blaine Hamilton performs her job with joy and enthusiasm. She expressed it this way, “Working isn’t ‘work’ when you love what you do. I truly love my job and all of my big kiddos.” Coach Hamilton grew up here, graduated from Stephenville High School in 2001 and Tarleton in 2005. This year, Tarleton Cheer competed in Advanced Small Coed Open for the first time in school history and came out with a second-place finish. Not only did Texan Cheer take a team to Florida to compete, but they also had a team compete virtually at Tarleton in Stephenville.” A 2018 Horizon Award Winner, Coach Hamilton bragged on her young team. “Out of the thirty-nine athletes on this team, fifteen are true freshmen, and only ten had ever competed in college nationals. 2020 was a very difficult and challenging year and then finding out

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a month before the national competition that we were in a pandemic and everything was canceled. We were put into quarantine…that was something you can’t prepare for. No summer camp, school going virtual, not being allowed to cheer, practice or perform was very challenging, to say the least. The team had to face so much adversity— but they persevered. I have no doubt this team will do great things and I can’t wait to see where the future takes them.” Adversity defined the personality of this group. “Hard work and dedication, the feeling that they missed out on so much and had something to prove,” Coach Hamilton said. “We had to completely change the way we did practices, games and school but they did it with smiles on their faces (under their masks, of course). They are uplifting, funny and just a big happy family.” Cheerleader Amanda Knights said, “Being on the Tarleton cheer team has helped me grow in many ways, from learning time management to helping me understand that there is always more than what meets the eye. Many people never know how much cheerleaders actually do between classes—practice, lifting weights and conditioning, and cheer at all the events. The experience of being a Tarleton cheerleader has been one of the best experiences I have ever had.”

Dance to Victory

The Texan Stars Dance Team began in 1974, making this their 47th year.

Elizabeth Walker performed on Tarleton’s Texan Stars team from 2012 to 2014, now begins Head Coach and feels truly blessed. “There’s no greater feeling as a

Being a third-year cheerleader, Brianna Davis added, “Recently Tarleton State University transitioned to a Division One institution and it feels good to say, I am a D1 Collegiate Cheerleader.” Elijah Imbong joined the team three years ago. “From cheering at games to hanging out off campus, it’s always a good time! Texan cheer has become one of my biggest supporters and closest friends.” “This team loves Tarleton and all that it encompasses,” Coach Hamilton praised. “You can see it when they proudly cheer on the purple and the white. They are national competitors, helping put Tarleton on the map at NCA College Nationals. Not only can you find them cheering on the sidelines at athletic events, but you will see them picking up trash along Highway 281 or helping with Tarleton Round-Up.” "I could not be prouder of this team; they could've easily given up in 2021, but instead they fought harder because they had something to prove." Coach Hamilton added, “I take pride in this team and I pray that I can be a positive light in their day as they are in mine.”

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coach than to see your team succeed every day.” And how her team did succeed! The Texan Stars danced their way into the final two of 2021’s national competition in a year full of adversity. "This team overcame so many obstacles over the last year and never stopped fighting for that first-place spot. I couldn’t be prouder of this team and program. Out of the thirteen dance team members, only one had ever been to NDA Nationals’ or competed for a collegiate team. Finishing in second by less than a point is absolutely incredible! This group of athletes represented Tarleton and our program to their highest potential. I couldn't have asked for a better first year!" At the 2021 finals the Stars competed in jazz, pom and hip-hop. Limited to a two-minute and fifteen second performance, they were judged on performance impression, uniformity, staging and collegiate image, quality and choreography. “Out of twenty team members, we had twelve new members, ten of those being true freshmen, and only two Texan Stars that had ever been to college nationals,” Coach Walker said. “Without being able to perform all year, we came out second in the NDA College Nationals.” Coach Walker beamed with pride. She grew up in Garland, Texas, but, like the students, Tarleton seems like home. “This is a fun, outgoing and very loving group. They are always laughing or encouraging one another.”

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Although she doesn’t have any children yet, Walker said she considers all the members of the dance team her ‘big kids’. “They have brought so much light, love and happiness into my life that I never knew was missing.” Graduate Assistant Kaelyn Edgeworth adds her youthful zeal and her praise for the Stars. “This team has overcome the problems. Over the last two years, this team has had to transition to a new head coach, battle

all the obstacles of Covid, and transition under the Athletics Department. “The Stars 2020/2021 team’s schedule included four or five games a week during the spring semester, while all of the university’s sports teams were competing and/or preparing at once. All that, plus their season was rushed toward preparing for NDA Nationals. With all the challenges from the last two years, this team never gave up. They leaned on each other and worked towards a goal they set for themselves. They continued to push and encourage one another, bringing them closer together as a team.” Emily Halleck, a second-year Stars team member takes that dedication and hard work into the rest of her life. “Being on a team such as the Texan Stars allows me to surround myself with people that will continuously push me every day to better myself as an athlete and in the classroom.” Coach Walker added, “From cheering and performing at games, to community service and appearances at events on campus, the Texan Stars truly bleed purple and white. Their passion, drive and love for this sport are unmatched.” While first-year college students often struggle with missing family and friends, Tessa Kelly, a second-year member of the Stars Dance Team, no longer has that problem. “My teammates have made my college life easier because they are always encouraging, help keep me accountable and are always there when I need someone. Being on the dance team holds me to a higher standard and I’m so blessed to represent such a great university.” ECL

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SUMMER FUN CAMPS BAREFOOT VOLLEYBALL CLUB (254) 485-2471 Every Tuesday & Thursday in July @ Faith Gym Ages: 8-13 yrs. (6:00 PM–7:15 PM) Cost: $250 Ages: 14-18 yrs. (7:30 PM – 9:00 PM) Cost: $275 Deadline to register is June 30th! Learn more on Facebook @ svillebarefootvolleyball BOY SCOUTS TEXAS TRAILS COUNCIL Summer Mini-Camp Session 1: June 10-12 Session 2: June 13-15 At Camp Billy Gibbons Cost: $150 per Camper, $100 per Adult

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CUB & WEBELOS CAMP Session 1: June 24-26 Session 2: June 28-30 At Camp Tonkawa Cost: $150 per Camper, $100 per Adult FIRST YEAR SCOUTS MINI CAMP June 21-23 At Camp Tonkawa Cost: $150 per Camper, $100 per Adult SAILING ACADEMY June 28-July 2 At the Abilene Sailing Association Contact Bobby at (706) 3460599 or robert.goodson@ scouting.org for information on how to register. texastrailsbsa.com CROSS TIMBERS FINE ARTS COUNCIL (254) 965-6190 Summer Storytime at the Stephenville Public Library July 8 (2–3 PM) Free, no registration necessary.

ART CAMP July 12–15 (9 AM–12 PM) Ages: 2nd Grade and older Cost: $130, includes all art materials. Create unique take-home art projects. ($150 after July 1) THE ART OF LOVELY MANNERS” – CLASS FOR GIRLS July 19-23, Ages 8-13 (9:30–11:30 AM) Cost: $75 THE ART OF BEING A GENTLEMAN” – CLASS FOR BOYS July 19-23, Ages 8-13 (2–4 PM) Cost: $75 Seating is limited. Please call to reserve your spot! crosstimbersfinearts.org/ register-for-events

FIDDLE STICKS MUSIC (254) 965-3898 Come and learn to play in a group setting. Private lessons also available for fiddle, banjo, guitar, mandolin, dobro, bass, dulcimer, piano, steel guitar, and voice. fiddlesticksmusicshop.com FOSSIL RIM WILDLIFE CENTER (254) 897-2960 Twilight T.W.A.N.G. May 7, May 15, May 21, May 29 June 4, June 12, June 18, June 26 Fun evening event for the whole family! Cost: $50 per person with 5 person minimum Register at fossilrim.org/ twilight-twang-reg/ fossilrim.org

GREAT AMERICAN LONE STAR RANCH (541) 531-9100 Kids Can Cook Academy & Real Farm Adventure Saturdays by Reservation Ages: 5-17 yrs. old (9 AM-1 PM) Cost: $95 per child kidscancook.info/academy LITTLE AUTHORS DUBLIN (254) 335-0156 Children’s Writing Workshop May 19-21 – Pirate Pete and His Crew of Misfits June 9-11 – Mystery of Pearl Island July 27-29 – Mission to Mars Age: 6+ (10 AM – 3 PM) Cost: $50 Participants will learn the creative writing process and collaborate to write and illustrate a book. Register at littleauthors.shop SUMMER DAY CAMP Morning Sessions: (10 AM–2 PM) June 2, June 15, June 22, July 12, July 30, & August 4 Afternoon Sessions: (1 PM-3 PM) June 3, June 16, June 23, July 6, July 7, & August 5 Age: 4+ and Potty-trained Cost: $20 Activities include a redi-made book, a craft, and an activity or game. Parents are welcome to stay. Register at littleauthors.shop

LONE STAR FAMILY FARM Sunflower Daze: Flowers, Food & Fun May 21-23, May 28-30, June 4-6 lonestarfamilyfarm.com/ sunflower-daze PINSPIRATION (254) 434-2453 Pinspiration Summer Camps Ages: 4+ Time: 9 AM–12 PM Cost: 1 Day - $45, 2 Days $80, 3 Days - $115 June 15-17 The Great Outdoors June 22-24 The Hero Within Me July 13-15 Go for the Gold July 27-29 Under the Big Top pinspiration.com/locations/ stephenville SKY HIGH SPORTS (563) 343-2755 Summer Skills Clinics Sunday – Wednesday in June & July Ages: 10-18 yrs. Cost: $20 per session Sessions capped at 12 athletes Register at skyhighstephenville.com/ skills MAX REPS PREP CAMP July 6-7 (5:30–7:30 PM) Cost $100 Prepare your athlete for middle school volleyball at Max

REPS CAMP Register at skyhighstephenville.com/ maxreps All Sky High summer activities are held at Sky High Gym, 2870 FM 914 skyhighstephenville.com SPARD (STEPHENVILLE PARKS & REC.) (254) 918-1295 2021 Summer Camp Every week Monday, May 24 - Friday, August 13 Time: 7:30 AM – 6 PM Ages: Pre-K – 12 yrs. Cost: $85 per week, $5 discount for each additional child. Camp will be held at SPARD Rec Hall.

CAMP GUTS LEADERSHIP CAMP (June 17) Time: 8 AM – 5 PM Ages: 6th - 8th Cost: Free

STEPHENVILLE DANCE CENTER (254) 977-3772 Hip Hop & Jazz Camp June 14-18 (10 AM – 12 PM) Ages: 7-10 Cost: $75 BARBIE BALLET CAMP June 21-25 (10 – 11 AM) July 5-9 Ages: 3-6 Cost: $50

SWIM LESSONS June 8-18, June 22-July 2, July 6-16, July 20-30, & August 3-13 Different class times for age divisions Ages: >5 – 17 Cost: $55 Register at recpro.stephenvilletx.gov STAR COUNCIL (254) 965-5515 All Star Camp (June 15 & June 16) Time: 8 AM – 5 PM Ages: 3rd - 5th Cost: Free

BOSQUE SAFARI CAMP (July 26 & July 28) Time: 8 AM – 5 PM Ages: K-2nd (Must be potty-trained) Cost: Free Snacks and lunch provided for all camps. Must be pre-registered for all camps before date of event. starcouncil.org

LYRICAL & JAZZ CAMP June 28 - July 2 (10 AM – 12 PM) Ages: 7-10 Cost: $75 HIP HOP & LYRICAL CAMP July 12-16 (10 AM – 12 PM) Ages: 7-10 Cost: $75 BALLET TECHNIQUE CAMP July 19-23 (10 – 11:30 AM) Ages: 7-10, Cost: $75 Punch Card Classes will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for dancers 11 and up. Each class is $15. The schedule for the week will be posted on our Facebook page each Monday. stephenvilledancecenter.com

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SUMMER FUN CAMPS 3 PLEASE NOTE: Although every effort is made to ensure all information published is correct, please confirm all details with event organizer.

Kahura July 29 - SPL hosts the Creature Teacher More events on the Library Facebook page!

Leslie Walker, Agent 155 N Graham St. #102 Stephenville, TX 76401 Cell: 325-370-2895 lwalker@farmersagent.com

STUDIO 6:14 DANCE (254) 434-1114 Princess Adventures Camp Camp 1: June 7-11 Camp 2: July 5-9 (9 AM – 12 PM) Ages 3+ Cost: $65

STEPHENVILLE HISTORICAL MUSEUM (254) 965-5880 Camp Pioneer, May 30 – June 3 Monday – Wednesday: 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Thursday: 9 AM-1:00 PM Ages: 1st – 5th Cost: $75 per child Family discount for 2+ children @ $50 a child Register at 254-977-3687 SHHM. org STEPHENVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY (254) 918-1240 Texas Summer Reading Program Events begin at 2:00 PM June 3 - SPL hosts the Stephenville Fire and Police Dept. June 10 - “Dino Dig” with Zach from Dinosaur Valley Park June 17 - SPL presents Jim Kirby: Magic and Juggling June 24 - Visit TSU Planetarium with SPL RSVP Required July 1 - “Dragonathon” July 8 - Arts and crafts with CTFAC at SPL RSVP Required July 22 - SPL hosts Elizabeth 98

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POPSTAR CAMP June 14-18 (9 AM – 12 PM) Ages 5+ Cost: $65 ADVENTURE TIME CAMP July 5-9 (9 AM – 12PM) Ages 5+ Cost: $65 FROZEN 2 MUSICAL THEATER July 19-23 (9 AM – 12 PM) Ages 5+ Cost: $65 ALADDIN CAMP July 26-30 (9 AM – 12 PM) Ages 5+ Cost: $65 Register online at studio614.dance TEXAS TWISTERS (254) 968-FLIP (3547) Tumbling, Trampoline, Strength, and Flexibility Camps June 3-4, June 24-25, July 1516, & July 22-23 Cost: $65 per child, $45 for siblings Call to register or message their Facebook page!

VELDHUIZEN CHEESE (254) 968-3098 Farm Tours, Every Saturday, 10:30 am & 1:30 pm Cheese-Making Tour, Every Thursday, Noon veldhuizencheese.com/tours

COMMUNITY EVENTS MOO-LA FEST June 3-5, Stephenville City Park Enjoy the magic of colorful hot air balloons, twilight balloon glows, a carnival, live music, udderly epic fun run, artisan vendors, delicious food, dairy activities and more! bit.ly/MooLaFest2021 INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION Held on Saturday, July 3 Stephenville City Park 9 AM – Parade Entries must register by June 30 11 AM – Splashville Opens BBQ Cook-Off & Classic Car Show hosted by Elks Lodge Grub Zone with Food Trucks8 PM – Texstar Ford Summer Concert 10 PM – Fantastic Fireworks bit.ly/SvilleJuly4th2021 SISD SUMMER CAMPS Find all camp forms on SISD website, sville.us

GIRLS BASKETBALL CAMP Stephenville High School (April 26-28) Grades K - 6th: 4– 5:30 PM GIRLS SOCCER CAMP Lem Brock Field, HJH (May 10-12) Grades K - 6th: 4:30– 6 PM BOYS BASKETBALL CAMP Stephenville High School (May 24-26) Grades 1st – 5th: 8 – 9 AM Grades 6th – 9th: 10 AM – 12 PM BOYS SOCCER CAMP Lem Brock Field, HJH (May 27-29) Grades K – 6th: 8 – 10 AM Grades 7th – 9th: 11 AM – 1 PM SISD CAMPS FOOTBALL CAMP SHS Practice Fields & Green Room (June 3-5) Grades 1st – 5th: 9 AM – 12 PM Grades 6th – 8th: 1 PM – 4 PM GIRLS BASKETBALL CAMP Stephenville High School (June 7 – 9) Grades 1st – 6th: 8 - 10 AM Grades 7th – 9th: 10 AM – 12 PM BASEBALL CAMP Stephenville High School (June 14-16) Grades 1st – 4th: 9:30 – 11:30 AM Grades 5th – 8th: 12:30 – 3 PM

VOLLEYBALL CAMP Stephenville High School (June 14-16) Grades 1st – 5th: 9 – 11 AM Grades 6th – 9th: 12 – 3 PM SOFTBALL CAMP SHS Softball Field (June 17-18) Grades 3rd – 9th: 9 AM – 12 PM FRESHMAN FOOTBALL CAMP July 26-28, 9th grade (SISD Athletes): 10 AM – 12 PM SUMMER STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING June 1st – July 28th, 7th – 12th grades (SISD Athletes) TARLETON CAMPS FOOTBALL CAMPS texansfootballcamps.com LITTLE TEXANS” FOOTBALL CAMP (254) 968-9518 June 1-3, Ages: 5 yrs.-12 yrs or entering 7th grade 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Cost: $120 ONE DAY FOOTBALL CAMP (254) 968-9518 Camp 1: June 12 Camp 2: July 10 Ages: Sophomores – Seniors in High School 1:00 - 5:00 PM Cost: $40

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS CAMP (254) 968-9518 July 23, Ages: Sophomores – Seniors in High School 6:00 - 9:00 PM Cost: $40 VOLLEYBALL CAMPS tarletonvolleyballcamps.com ELITE VOLLEYBALL CAMP (254) 968-9542 Camp 1: July 16 Camp 2: July 23 (9 AM–7:30 PM) Ages: 9th – 12th Cost: $100 VOLLEYBALL FUNDAMENTALS CAMP (254) 968-9542 Camp 1: July 17 Camp 2: July 24 Ages: 1st – 8th, 9 AM–7:30 PM Cost: $100 TENNIS CAMPS tarletontenniscamps.com June 15-18, July 6-9, July 21-24, Ages: K-12thKendi Maruska | 254-744-7225 | mytexaslifestyle.com mclemoregroup.com 254-968-1020 Doug McLemore and Spencer Sligh BASKETBALL CAMPS WOMEN: tarletonwbkcamp.com, MEN: texanbasketballcamp WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM (254) 968-9132 June 4-5 Ages: High School JV and Varsity Cost: $600/ team

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL FUNDAMENTAL (254) 968-9132 June 7-9, Ages: 4th - 12th Cost: $250 (8 AM–8 PM Mon. – Tues., 8 AM–5 PM Wed.) WOMEN'S ELITE BASKETBALL CAMP (254) 968-9132 Camp 1: June 10 Camp 2: June 30 (8:00 AM–5:00 PM) Ages: 9th-12th Cost: $50 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL MINI CAMP (254) 968-9132 June 14-16 (8 AM–12 PM) Ages: K – 4th Cost: $125 provides instruction in all basketball fundamentals including shooting, ball handling, scoring situations, defense & rebounding. Campers will compete against players in their own age group. MEN'S BASKETBALL PROSPECT CAMP (979) 218-0577 June 2 (1:30 - 6 PM) Graduating Seniors Only, Cost: $75 June 3 (1:30 - 6 PM) 9th-12th graders, Cost: $75 MEN'S BASKETBALL DAY CAMP (979) 218-0577 June 21-23, July 26-28 Cost: $175 Grades 1st-6th (9 AM - Noon) Registration at 8 AM Grades 7th-12th (1:30 - 4:30 PM) Registration at 12:30 PM

BASEBALL CAMPS texanbaseballcamps.com YOUTH BASEBALL CAMP (254) 968-1666 Camp 1: June 7-9 Camp 2: August 2-4 ( 9 AM – 12 PM) Ages: 3rd – 8th Cost: $100 Camp staff will emphasize hitting, fielding, base running, and throwing fundamentals through drills, proper practice techniques, and game situations. Campers will be divided by age for games and drills. 2021 TEXAN PROSPECT CAMP (254) 968-1666 Camp 1: June 23 Camp 2: August 14 (Registration begins at 8 AM) Ages: High School Soph Seniors Cost: Starts at $150 This camp is an opportunity for high school players to demonstrate their skills in a pro-style workout and live games in front of the Texan coaching staff. TARLETON NCA CHEER CAMPS (254) 968-9130 Camp 1: May 31-June 3 Camp 2: June 7-10 Camp 3: June 14-17* Camp 4: June 21-24* Camp 5: June 28-July 1 Cost: Resident Camper - $345, Commuter Camper - $265 *Camp 3 & 4 are 3A and under tarleton.edu/summercamps/ cheer

Hometown Living At Its Best

TARLETON SWIM PROGRAM (254) 968-9316 Session 1: June 1-10 Session 2: June 14-24 Session 3: June 28-July 8 (8 AM – 12 PM) Age: 4+ Cost: $65 All sessions meet 8 times for 45 minutes, MondayThursday, at heated indoor pool at Wisdom Gym. Lessons are offered on five different skill levels: Introduction, Beginner, Advanced Beginner, Intermediate, and Swimmer. tarleton.edu/kinesiology REC KIDZ CAMP (254) 968-9912 Week Camps: July 5-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-30, August 2-6 Mini Camps: June 3-5, 10-12, 17-19, 24-26 Ages: 5 yrs. – 12 yrs. (8:30 AM – 4:30 PM) Cost: Week Camp - $100, Mini Camp - $65 Activities are designed to help campers become more independent, enhance their self-confidence and develop mind and body in a fun and safe learning environment. tarleton.edu/campusrec ALL STATE CHOIR CAMP (254) 968-9130 July 18-20 Ages: 9th – 12th Cost: Resident Camper - $199, Commuter Camper - $99 tarleton.edu/summercamps/ choir 100

Erath County Living

BAND & JAZZ CAMPS (254) 968-9130 June 13-17, Band: 6th-12th grades, Jazz: 9th-12th grades Cost: Resident Camper $349, Commuter Camper - $150 tarleton.edu/summercamps/ band

OTHER CAMPS 6HILL COUNTRY ADVENTURE CAMP May 29-June 3 Ages: 14-18 yrs. Adventure camp designed for military youth of Active Duty, Guard, Reserve, and Retired Personnel. FISHING CAMP June 16-18 Ages: 3rd – 12th Cost: Youth $240, Adult $130 This camp is for any youth wanting to learn how to start fishing. Youth will learn the basics of fishing along with some fun and interesting related topics and activities. STEM CAMP June 16-18 Ages: 3rd – 8th Cost: Youth $240, Adult $130 Join us this summer for a fun, hands-on STEM Camp! Activities include 3D printing, aquatic robots, engineering challenges, aerospace, and so much more!

WILDLIFE CAMP June 16-18 - Ages: 3rd - 12th Cost: Youth $240, Adult $130 This camp is for any youth wanting to learn more about wildlife and about stewardship in Texas. HORIZONS CAMP June 27-July 1 Ages: 4th – 8th Cost: Youth $300, Adult $160 A camp featuring multiple 4-H project areas. Each youth selects either Woodworking, STEM, Vet Science, or Wildlife, and goes on a full learning adventure for the length of camp! MISSION POSSIBLE CAMP June 28-30 Ages: 3rd – 12th Cost: $175, An inclusive camp for youth with medically diagnosed disabilities to enjoy traditional camp experiences and raise awareness about the disability community. COUNTY CAMP Camp 1: July 1-3 Camp 2: July 5-7 Ages: 3rd – 11th - Cost: Youth $200, $110 Adult Challenge course, swimming, archery, and more!

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMP July 7-9 Ages: 3rd-11th Cost: Youth $200, Adult $110, This camp is for youth who love to be outdoors! Activities will cover topics about living in, playing in, and enjoying being outdoors. PRIME TIME CAMP Camp 1: July 11-14 Camp 2: July 14-17 Ages: Camp 1: 5th-8th Camp 2: 3rd-5th Cost: Youth $250, Adult $135 Challenge course, swimming, archery, and more! TRUE WARRIORS CAMP July 18-22 Ages: 12-18 yrs. Designed for youth and teens of Army Wounded Warrior and Gold Star Families. 4H CAMPS Register for 4-H Center Camps by calling (254) 9651460 erath.agrilife.org/4-h-camps/ 2900 W. Washington 254-968-3600 CAMPS WITH ERATH COUNTY 4-H SEWING CAMP June 16-17 Session 1: 9 AM–12 PM Session 2: 1–4 PM Ages: 8+ Cost: $35 CLOVER TEXTILES CAMP July 18 - 9 AM–12:30 PM Ages: 5–8 Cost: $25

AGRICULTURE AND FOOD CAMP June 29 - July 1 Ages 5–8: 9 AM – 12 PM Ages 8+: 1 – 4 PM Ages: 5+ Cost: $25 For more details on upcoming events, area attractions and fun things for the whole family to do this summer, visit stephenvilletexas.org

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH (254) 965-3187 June 7-10 | Ages: K-6th 9 AM - 12PM Theme: Rocky Railway Climb aboard for mountains of fun at Rocky Railway! On this faith-filled adventure, kids discover that trusting Jesus pulls them through life’s ups and downs.

VBS AND CHURCH ACTIVITIES

July 12-15 | Ages: 1st – 3rd 9 AM - 2 PM | Location: City Park | Cost: $45 Theme: Soakin’ Up the Son Kidz Camp Designed for young students to see how to live in and for Christ. Partnering with area churches, there'll be games, music, Bible study, inflatables, and Splashville! Make sure to invite a friend! FBCStephenville.org

COWBOY CHURCH OF ERATH COUNTY (254) 968-2210 June 1-4 | Ages: Pre-K – 6th 5 – 8 PM Theme: Concrete & Cranes - Building on the Love of Jesus Dinner begins at 5 PM, and VBS activities begin at 5:30 PM | cowboychurcherathcounty. com ELK RIDGE BAPTIST CHURCH (254) 485-4441 July 27-30 | Ages: 4 yrs.–6th 6 - 8 PM Theme: Mystery Island VBS elkridgebaptist.org FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH (254) 968-2710 July 25-29 | Ages: 3 yrs.–5th 5:30 - 8 PM | Theme: Rainforest Explorers – Jesus Leads the Way Games, Crafts & More! Dinner included! | vbsmate.com/ FaithLCStephenville

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH (254) 965-5046 August 8-12 |Ages: K – 6th 9 AM – 12:30 PM | Creative Arts Bible Camp Children will create Biblical themed art projects and a musical show. | fumcstephenville.org GREENS CREEK BAPTIST CHURCH (254) 445-3566 July 26-30 | 8:45 AM - Noon Theme: Concrete & Cranes, Building on the Love of Jesus! greenscreekbc.com

HARVEY BAPTIST CHURCH (254) 965-4368 June 6-10 | Ages: 3 yrs.-6th 6 - 9:00 PM Theme: Rocky Railway Music, Bible Stories, Games, & Snacks to learn how God’s love pulls us through! harveybaptist.org

TIMBER RIDGE CHURCH (254) 434-2507

LIFE CHURCH (903) 802-3718

July 9 | Family Night at Splashville | 7:30 – 9:30 PM Splashville, Stephenville City Park

June 6 |10:30 AM | Beach Day June 12 & 13 | Enough Youth Camp Ages: 12 & up July 4 | 10:30 AM | Ice Cream Sundae Sunday July 31, 2-5 PM & August 1, 10:30 AM | Kids Camp Water activities, food, and more! The van will pick up all kids wanting to join in on the fun! lifechurchstephenville.org LINGLEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH (254) 335-0215 Date TBD | Ages: 5 yrs.-6th 6 - 8:30 PM Theme: Treasured – Discovering You’re Priceless to God linglevillebaptist.org

June 11 | Family Movie Night 8:45 PM | Birdsong Amphitheater, Stephenville City Park Free family movie night. Movie will begin at dark. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Free community-wide pool party. SPARD will have a concession stand open. timberridgechurch.com VALLEY GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH (254) 965-5195 July 25-28 | Ages: 4 yrs. – 6th 6 - 8:30 PM | Theme: TBD valleygrove.net

ROCKY POINT BAPTIST CHURCH (254) 965-3582 July 5-9 | Ages: All ages 6 - 7 PM | Power Up Clubs Location: Monday – Thursday at homes around Stephenville, Friday at Rocky Point Campus | Each club will include skits, games, teaching, snacks, and stories! | rpbchurch.org

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Bella Vita Ranch:

A ST U N N IN G WEDDI NG DEST I NA T I O N Re-opens Under New Ownership Written by Martha Helton Photographs provided by Bella Vita Ranch

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Wedding planners are hired to book florists, photographers, caterers, and bartenders to artfully converge together, setting the stage to showcase the lovely bride in all her stunning array.

lthough the traditional church wedding and reception following in fellowship hall is still a desirable venue destination, today there are so many other options available. Brides are electing to make their dreams come true according to their personal style and budget. Choices can include an inside urban chic ceremony, or perhaps an outside wedding in a beautiful botanical garden, or maybe really go extravagant with a sprawling European venue as a backdrop to her picture-perfect special day. Wedding planners are hired to book florists, photographers, caterers, and bartenders to artfully converge together, setting the stage to showcase the lovely bride in all her stunning array.

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Bella Vita Ranch (which means “beautiful life” in Italian), is a beautiful 5,000 square foot Tuscan-style wedding and event venue on 26-acres of rolling green countryside just minutes west of Stephenville; it is one such option available to choose from. Stone walls are covered in lovely green vines and medieval wood doors beckon wedding guests to step over the threshold to a breathtaking sight inside. Established in 2010, the venue changed hands last March. The new faces who enthusiastically oversee all the daily operations of Bella Vita Ranch are Kiauna (pronounced “Kee-ahna”) and Ezra Linzer. Actually, Kiauna is the main manager of the property, with her husband helping when he can as he is out of town frequently with his work in the agricultural business. Native to the area and well-schooled in ranching and farming, Kiauna graduated from Tarleton State University in 2015 with a degree in agriculture and communications. While in college she met her husband, Ezra; almost three years ago they married at…Bella Vita Ranch, of course! According to Kiauna, the ranch is a well-known destination for a celebration. “People often say, ‘You never miss a party at Bella Vita Ranch,’ and it is true.” Ezra was also friends with the previous owner’s son and daughter-in-law. “He’s always been really familiar with the place and I’ve come to multiple events over the

“I really just found a new hobby that I thought I would really enjoy—especially having the communication background. Then working with the public—I’m definitely an extravert. I definitely like to talk to people.” years, whether it’s a non-profit event or a wedding. I’ve always loved the place,” confided Kiauna. “There’s just something about the moment you drive through the gates…you see the breathtaking Texas countryside with beautiful landscaping accompanied by a Tuscan-style building. It’s just so beautiful and soothing. Then once you step inside, it’s magical! I still can’t get over it!” After college, Kiauna spent six years in customer service with H-E-B, went through their management training program and began her management career at the Granbury H-E-B as the department manager of H-E-B Curbside. After her own wedding, and after attending several other weddings, Kiauna found herself thinking more about how she could make a bride’s dream for her wedding become a reality. “I really just found a new hobby that I thought I would really enjoy— especially having the communication background. Then working with the public—I’m definitely an extravert. I

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worked on marketing the business other places online. definitely like to talk to people,” she shared. “I remember “We had a presence on social media that we were trying going into H-E-B to work one day and I told one of my to re-establish, so we created an Instagram account and colleagues about my newfound hobby I thought I was reactivated the Facebook account, which has over 3,000 wanting to pursue, and he said, ‘Man, Kiauna, I think you likes. We’ve just tried to get really found your new hobby the word out that we’re back because I see how passionate “People are not going to open. That has been a little you are about it.’” stop getting married and bit of a struggle. We also That passion ultimately advertise on theknot.com, propelled the couple to people are not going to weddingwire.com and zola. take the helm of Bella Vita, stop going to parties,” she com. We really didn’t get a an amazing fulfillment of shared. But unfortunately, whole lot of traction until the Kiauna’s “hobby.” “People acquiring the ranch a beginning of this year.” are not going to stop getting week before the COVID-19 Inside the building 225 married and people are guests can attend events not going to stop going to pandemic hit put a damper comfortably. On either end of parties,” she shared. But on things. the building there are suites unfortunately, acquiring with private restrooms for the ranch a week before the the bride and her party and the groom and his party. To COVID-19 pandemic hit put a damper on things. But she make the groom’s suite fun and entertaining, a vintage put her communications degree to work by reactivating Pac-Man arcade machine is in one corner and a foosball and building the website herself (the ranch was out of table is in the middle. To complete the room there is a operation for two years). She had multiple friends who small, refrigerated dispensary stocked with cold Coors got married at the venue, so she used some of their beer. She reasoned the guys needed something to occupy pictures on the website, plus she utilized old pictures their time while the bride and her party are dressing and from the Facebook page. “I put everything that I thought applying that last layer of mascara. was useful for a bride to see their vision.” She also

Outside there is a vine-covered rustic-style pergola, a picturesque place for the bride and groom to meet for an outside ceremony. Florists will often decorate the pergola with flowers and extra greenery. With the beautiful stone exterior and medieval doors behind them, picture-perfect photo opportunities are plentiful. White garden chairs are available for guests. The lush grass and landscaping are well-manicured, maintained by a full-time landscaper. There is also a tranquil pond on the property. One and two-day packages are available to book. “We like offering the two-day package for weddings because mom does not want to stress out on the day--and the bride definitely does not need to stress out on the day of the wedding. With the two-day event they will be able to come in the day before the wedding and do set up and be able to do a rehearsal; they also have the option of doing their rehearsal dinner here.” Also on-site is a threebedroom, two bath houses available to book on Airbnb. com, provided it is available. Bella Vita Ranch also books other types of gatherings besides weddings, although weddings are their main focus. Sorority formals, teacher appreciation functions, anniversary parties, bridal showers, baby showers and customer appreciation nights are just some of the types of events that can happen at Bella Vita Ranch. Recently, she has heard from people wanting to book Christmas parties. By far the most unique bookings occurred last December and the beginning of this year. A call came in one day and the caller ID said, “New York, New York”. Thinking it was just another spam call, Kiauna almost didn’t answer it, but she is glad she did. It was the producer from Dateline NBC. They were searching for a venue to interview people who had been involved in solving the 1987 murder of Stephenville resident Susan Woods. More information was exchanged and just a couple of weeks later the Dateline crew came to film. “It was definitely an experience like no other and they liked us so much they came out three different times to conduct interviews!” gushed Kiauna. The Linzers have future plans to further enhance their property. They would like to add a fountain in the pond, and they are building a concrete sidewalk from the parking lot to the building. To host smaller events, some type of building divider is being investigated. ECL

For more information on this lovely venue, log onto thebellavitaranch.com.

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KEL L EY SNOD G R A S S Tarleton’s Gift to Nature

Thirty-seven years of giving the next generation a better balance with nature By Peggy Purser Freeman Photos by Eric Priddy Photography and provided by Fossil Rim

first met Kelley Snodgrass nineteen years ago while writing a show called Kid Talk for Radio Disney in Arlington. The exotic animals on billboards all over town advertising Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (FRWC) intrigued me as much as they excited the young girl who was to interview Kelley. Before we began taping the segment, I worried that she would be overwhelmed.

Kelley’s journey to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center was a short one. He grew up attending a small school in Lake Worth and then attended Tarleton State University in Stephenville. He says his TSU experiences provided opportunities that supported independence and, more importantly, collaborative thinking, planning and actions.

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Kelley engages his audience, whether it’s children, adults, scientists, or volunteers. After all, this was a man of science. Could he relate to children? I quickly learned Kelley, the Texas Ag Teacher, could recite the scientific names, numbers and predators for most endangered species. Not only did Kelley relate to kids, but he also had the Radio Disney audience mesmerized with his stories of saving animals and promoting the balance of nature. Kelley engages his audience, whether it’s children, adults, scientists, or volunteers. When he gave us a guided tour behind the scenes at the park, he even cajoled the oldest rhino on the premises of Fossil Rim to stroll to the fence and receive a tummy rub. Kelley’s journey to FRWC was a short one. He grew up attending a small school in Lake Worth and then attended Tarleton State University (TSU) in Stephenville. There he met his wife of 38 years.

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Kelley found this job by happenstance. “With a new family, I really needed a job, one near Tarleton that would allow me to finish the last class required to complete my degree. My professor, Dr. Johnson, told me there was a job opening near Glen Rose. Now, after thirty-seven years, I am sincerely grateful.”

“I’m very, very blessed! Patty is my wonderful life partner and balancer of all things I am not, and there are many.” Patty Snodgrass is also a product of TSU and today she dedicates her abilities to what Kelley calls the noblest of professions—an educator at Glen Rose ISD. “TSU must run in the blood. Both of our children, Sloan and Kas, are also TSU grads,” Kelley added, “and our daughter-in-law, Ellerie. Even our two granddaughters, Dixie and Sutten—the good stuff—the lights of our life, maybe they too will someday be TSUers.” Kelley found this job by happenstance. “With a new family, I really needed a job, one near Tarleton that would allow me to finish the last class required to complete my degree. My professor, Dr. Johnson, told me there was a job opening near Glen Rose. Now, after thirty-seven years, I am sincerely grateful.” Before visiting FRWC and the interview with Kelly, I expected a zoo out in the country. As we traveled through

the gate and up a hill to a tall ridge, every pre-conceived concept I had changed. A breath-taking vista transported us to a savannah, straight out of Africa. Herds of critically endangered animals like the addax and dama gazelle, or the horned oryx, grazed in a rippling sea of grassland. Texas disappeared and I felt a part of nature. The history of FRWC goes back to the early seventies. Tom Mantzel, an oilman with a passion for exotic animals, purchased the ranch, and later Jim Jackson and Christine Jurzykowski bought the ranch. In 1987 Kelley came on board, along with many loyal employees, and hundreds of dedicated sponsors, supporters and volunteers and took the land from a ranch and turned it into one of five centers for species survival. The first facility of its kind to have been accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association, FRWC participates in a worldwide network of wildlife conservation organizations. “My TSU experiences provided opportunities that supported independence and, more importantly, collaborative thinking, planning and actions. The mission is to keep Fossil Rim dedicated to the conservation of species in peril, conducting scientific research, training professionals, responsible management of natural resources, and public education. Through these activities, FRWC’s staff provides a diversity of compelling learning experiences that inspire positive change in the way people think, feel and interact with nature.”

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"Kelley is a big-picture thinker.” Warren Lewis, Chief Marketing Officer at FRWC said. “He understands the need for collaboration to ensure the survival of species. Working together helps retain the genetic diversity for any given species. Shared knowledge and best practices are vitally important. He wants people and organizations to come together and focus on what's best for each species." I asked Kelley to share a few favorite FRWC stories that have happened over the years. “There are lots and lots of stories,” he offered. “Like the face-off between a giraffe and squirrel.” He chuckled and added, “Working to conserve wildlife species from Texas to Africa, seeing amazing sunrises and sunsets—all that and the many opportunities to share experiences with children and adults. We’ve been blessed to have Dream Day, Wish With Wings, schools and other groups. The incredible people I have had the good fortune to work with and meet are some of the best stories. However, the real story will forever be told by how we - as a part of nature, not separate from – but how we nurture and steward our collective, one and only world.”

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Fossil Rim and Tarleton State University have collaborated over the years. Many staff and interns (past and present) have come through the TSU system. Numerous TSU grad-student projects have been published in various scientific publications, ranging from studies in reproduction

“Through the years,” Kelley explained, “only with and through the collective efforts of many have we realized the impact FRWC has made as a conservation center. Always, and with galvanizing effect, our supporters, volunteers and staff responsibly manage FRWC’s conservation mission and protect this beautiful slice of nature.” to ear ticks to pasture assessments and surveys. Hosting classes and guest lectures has also added to the benefit of students and TSU/FRWC. “We are honored and proud to be a part of this community – local, regional and beyond. If you have visited and/or worked with FRWC in the past – Thank You! If you have yet to get to know us, please, please do.” Visit the rhinos, cheetahs, addax, wildebeest, and other endangered animals roaming the grass-covered vistas of Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. Go on the self-drive at your own pace, take a guided tour at some point – going a little deeper. Stay in one of the lodging facilities and listen for the howl of the wolves. Look for FRWC programs or those of the many alliances that partner with the center. There you may find a project you might like to support. Most of all, explore additional ways you may be able to steward

and conserve nature – in your home, backyard and with/ through others. “Through the years,” Kelley explained, “only with and through the collective efforts of many have we realized the impact FRWC has made as a conservation center. Always, and with galvanizing effect, our supporters, volunteers and staff responsibly manage FRWC’s conservation mission and protect this beautiful slice of nature.” Everyone wants to leave this world better. For Kelley, it’s giving the next generation a better balance with nature–yesterday, today, and more importantly, what it can and will be. For those that know Kelley Snodgrass, we hope the coming generations include more like him—a gift from Tarleton to the future. ECL Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 entity, specializing in captive breeding programs for indigenous and exotic endangered and threatened species. fossilrim.org/donate

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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 118

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Index of Advertisers 4Cs Rodeo Ranch...........................................................................30

Moms Who Know...............................................................................7

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

Nuture-N-Nature................................................................................7

Associated Well Services............................................................. 83

Pastafina........................................................................................... 120

Baili Nettleship Photography..................................................... 38

Peacock’s Restaurant.................................................................... 83

Beans and Franks............................................................................ 83

Pinspiration........................................................................................94

Blue Flamingo.................................................................................. 74

Prime Metal Buildings & Components.......................................3

BMY.................................................................................................... IFC

Redfin Pools.................................................................................... IBC

CJ’s Spur-N-Things......................................................................... 75

Remy Tree Service.......................................................................... 74

Cross Timbers Family Services..................................................64

Runyon’s Fine Furniture Store................................................... 25

Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council................................................. 9

Sass and Soul Photography......................................................... 31

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

Scott’s Flowers.................................................................................94

Danielle Meador Photography................................................. 109

Stephenville Family Dentistry.................................................... 39

Dublin EDC........................................................................................ 53

Stephenville Funeral Home......................................................... 82

Dublin Insurance Agency............................................................. 95

Storage Plus of Stephenville..................................................... 108

Dublin ISD...................................................................................44-45

Sue Ann Porter CPA.......................................................................117

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

Swindle’s Jewelry............................................................................ 75

Edwards & Stokes........................................................................... 95

Tarleton State University............................................................... 17

Erath Plumbing................................................................................64

Texas Oral & Facial Surgery Center PLLC............................. BC

Eric Priddy Photography.............................................................. 24

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

F & M Bank.........................................................................................94

The Hay & Feed Ranch..................................................................118

First National Bank......................................................................…118

The Pizza Place................................................................................ 83

Fraser Agency Inc........................................................................... 52

The Salon............................................................................................ 65

Fraser Wilson and Bryan..................................................................1

Veldhuizen Cheese.......................................................................... 16

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

Venture 19..........................................................................................116

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Wicked Clover................................................................................ 109

Lawrence Hay & Feed.................................................................... 75

Woods Furniture............................................................................. 82

Members Trust.................................................................................. 65

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