Parker County Life Style

With some assistance from our stylish friends in Parker County, we’ve equipped you with a winter fashion guide to help you weather the flux and survive a wayward winter in style.

The Miracle of Super Jack

William “Karl” Keesee was the 217th DPS officer killed in the line of duty, the duty of protecting and serving.

As the cliché goes, big things (extraordinary, even outright MIRACULOUS things) come in small packages, in fearless, energetic packages like preschooler Jack Hart.

The Millennial Olympian

At a time when millennials are getting a bad rap, twenty somethings are notoriously ‘famous for being famous’ and a person’s value is measured by her Instagram followers, 22-year-old Olympic discus thrower, Shelbi Vaughan is working to defy the stereotypes.

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SOLD IN PARKER COUNTY

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THE MILLENNIAL OLYMPIAN At a time when millennials are getting a bad rap, twenty somethings are notoriously ‘famous for being famous’ and a person’s value is measured by her Instagram followers, 22-year-old Olympic discus thrower, Shelbi Vaughan is working to defy the stereotypes.

FOR THE LOVE OF THE LAND Brett Wolf enjoys moving dirt, working the land and welding, so he turned it into a business. Wolf, an Iraq veteran who sustained significant injuries in an IED attack, hasn’t allowed anything to slow him down as he builds a new life in Parker County.

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THE ENTREPRENEUR LIFE: BERT THOMPSON

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REBIRTH OF A BUILDING

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: DEBRA WAKELAND

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What does it take to fulfill the dreams of a lifelong entrepreneur in Parker County? Bert Thompson, owner of Mike’s Westside Rental, will tell you it takes prayer and people.

For more than 10 years, the historic Carter Ivy building sat empty in Weatherford’s downtown district before being lovingly restored and reopened by two friends dedicated to its rebirth as a retail outlet.

Meet Debra Wakeland, Weatherford’s Main Street Director, and learn a few fun facts about her.

LIVESTOCK LESSONS Hundreds of Parker County youth exhibit livestock and in return, gain valuable lessons, which is one of the many reasons why one organization wants to ensure a strong future for agriculture in the county.

ZONTA CLUB OF PARKER COUNTY: WHERE WOMEN COME TO SERVE

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The Zonta Club of Parker County has made it their mission to create hope and give help to women and girls near and far who are in need.

THE MIRACLE OF SUPER JACK As the cliché goes, big things (extraordinary, even outright MIRACULOUS things) come in small packages, in fearless, energetic packages like preschooler Jack Hart.

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About the Cover Cover photo is of Janzen Jackson modeling a look from Teskey’s.

To see this and other local winter looks, turn to page 110.

Find-a-Physician. The right doctor is just a phone call away at 817-489-7450.

Choosing the right doctor is a big decision. But it just got a lot easier. One call to our free, 24-hour Find-a-Physician line gives you access to local primary care physicians and specialists. So whether you need a physician close to your home or work, or one who accepts walk-ins or same-day appointments, give us a call and we’ll help you find the doctor who’s just right for you.

LoneStarPhysicians.com

Contents 62 74 80 82 86 98 110 6

WHOLENESS THROUGH HOPE Janet Duvall felt a calling placed on her heart while serving in ministry at Carswell Federal prison. She prayerfully answered that calling with a place to support female ex-offenders who want to change their story after completing their sentence, a place she refers to as a “Whole-Way house.

PROMOTING LASTING HEART HEALTH

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For many people, maintaining good heart health requires little more than living a healthy lifestyle filled with regular activity and a sensible diet. For thousands of others, a healthy ticker isn’t so easy to come by and some form of cardiac intervention is needed to maintain lasting heart health.

FITNESS REVOLUTIONS FOR 2017 Hear from three fitness professionals of Parker County who weigh in on their own fitness experience, their gyms, and how to achieve health and happiness in 2017 by creating healthy living habits that will stick.

SMART FINANCIAL MOVES FOR WOMEN Mike Smith with Edward Jones has some tips for women on taking steps towards a comfortable retirement.

MAKING HAPPILY-EVER-AFTER HAPPEN After fifty-nine years of marriage, local couple Charles and Janet Foster are still deeply in love.

This is their story of how God wove their lives together right here in Weatherford, Texas.

REMODELING THE VACANT Katy Jade Hill took a vacant Weatherford home and transformed it into a southwestern masterpiece. From remodeling to decorating, Katy has had her hand in it all.

FASHION THAT WEATHERS THE FLUX With some assistance from our stylish friends in Parker County, we’ve equipped you with a winter fashion guide to help you weather the flux and survive a wayward winter in style.

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In Every Issue 52 60 68 70 52

HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS BELIEVE BOLDLY The Pressure to Pretend with Erica Willis

HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS HOMETOWN GRADUATES Congratulations to Parker County’s seniors.

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HOMETOWN HAPPINESS Wishing much love and happiness to Parker county’s newlyweds.

THE LIST: SPRING BREAK BACKUP PLANS HOMETOWN BUNDLES OF JOY Welcoming Parker County’s newest residents.

WHAT’S UP, PARKER COUNTY? Local calendar of events.

P O O L CO N STR U CTIO N • E X ISTING P OOL R EM OD EL S • OU T D OOR L I V I N G S PAC ES C U STO M P E R GO L AS • R ETA I N I N G WA L L S • C U STOM R OC K WOR K L ANDS CAP E DE S I G N A N D I N STA L L AT I ON • S OD

817.304.1044

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PUBLISHER

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Justin & Hayley Six

Kyle & Halsey Clark

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

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CREATIVE | DESIGN

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Happy New Year’s, Parker County! We have been anticipating this issue for some time and we hope you have as well. We have grown to love these moments – brainstorming, creating, and packaging something so special just for you. We can’t express enough how much we love our home of Parker County and the faces that we meet with every issue who truly motivate us to be better and to share their stories with the rest of you.

With any new year, comes new beginnings and an opportunity to restart, refocus, and redefine who you are. We understand many of you are reaching for that “think piece” that has weight and carries significance. Therefore, we pray that this issue will not only motivate, encourage, and inspire, but that it will truly MOVE you to start 2017 off on the right foot.

Maybe you need to hear from our fitness experts in Parker County about how to make this year the healthiest yet. Perhaps you can relate to the story of Brett Wolf, a wounded vet and Parker County entrepreneur, who has turned tragedy into triumph with perseverance and hard work. His account will be the word you need to keep going. If it’s a creative spark you are looking for, you have come to the right place! From our Winter Style Guide to our Katy Hill Reno and everything in between- we hope you see something that you’ve never seen before.

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 your events to add to our Spring calendar, photos of your events to add to our upcoming section of “Hometown Happenings,” or any stories you would like to read in the next issue. We would love to hear from you!

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-date events, announcements, and important information about Parker County, you don’t want to miss!

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

Until the next edition, Wishing you many blessings,

Justin and Hayley Six Hayley.RedFin@gmail.com (817) 320-6360

Kyle and Halsey Clark Halsey.RedFin@gmail.com (817) 565-0439

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

2 Corinthians 5:17

Parker County LifeStyle Magazine pclifestyle #parkercountylifestyle #gettheskinnyparkerco

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CONTENT COORDINATOR Noel Betush

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SOCIAL MEDIA CHAIR Halsey Clark

PROOF READER

Hayley Six

PHOTOGRAPHERS AKO Photography

Declaring His Glory Photography

Janzen Jackson Photography

Landi Whitefield Photography

Lindsey Sullivan Photography

Whitney Chilton Photography

COVER PHOTO

SALES DIRECTOR

Photo by Janzen Jackson Photography Halsey Clark

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SALES

Halsey Clark

Kyle Clark

Hayley Six

Molly Gray

Tori Mortensen

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CONTRIBUTING

Erica Willis

WRITERS

Halsey Clark

Lindsay Allen

Sarah Gooding

Tori Mortensen

Parker County LifeStyle© is published quarterly by Red Fin Publishing.

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community

The

Millennial Olympian

By T ori Mor t ensen Pho t os by Decl aring His Gl ory Pho t ogr aph y and provided by Shel bi Vaughan

A product of sacrifice and dedication, t he girl who has become known as t he T hrow Princess has given up a lot to achieve her goal of making t he Olympic team.

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t’s not often that you hear a young person use words like “in my first Olympics.” But the Azle-born athlete talks about just that, when she references competing in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil this summer alongside her teammates on the US Olympic Track and Field Team.

“I started sports at age three. I was a sprinter. In “I

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started sports at age three. I was a sprinter. In seventh grade a throws coach (Teresa Moore) eyeballed me and asked me to come try it (throwing the discus). I told her ‘no thanks, I’m going to run,’” giggles Shelbi. But she did try it and as turns out, the coach was right. Shelbi was a natural. Coach Moore told Shelbi’s mom that she believed the middle schooler would be really good one day. Shelbi still wasn’t sure, but she continued to throw while she was competing in running events and also playing volleyball. Even with the chatter that had begun to circulate about the Axel star, it took the highschooler breaking the national discus record, ‘out of nowhere’ as Shelbi says, for her to finally start to BELIEVE. She now has the word BELIEVE tattooed on her foot as a permanent reminder.

Photo by Errol Anderson

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The day Shelbi broke the national high school record, she had set a goal to simply break the meet record. Vaughan laughs that she may have she blacked out and that she had to ask her mom to repeat what the announcer had said. Once she broke through what she calls ‘that barrier’ she began throwing consistently at what could be considered an elite level. That year she broke the national record three more times… in one meet.

While in high school the star brought home three Texas state championships in discus. Then, Vaughan finished fourth in the 2012 Olympic trials. A top three finish would have landed her a spot at the London games. Shelbi was only17.

Her success at Mansfield Legacy and Azle landed her at Texas A&M as a two-sport athlete on scholarship for volleyball and participating in track and field. She won four Southeastern Conference discus championships and two NCAA Division I championships while at A&M and the achievements propelled her into a Nike contract and eventually into the 2016 Olympic trials in Eugene, OR.

At age 21, decked out in her Nike gear and still roughly four years younger than the best throwers in the sport, she threw 197 feet, 9 inches for a second place finish in the US trials. The top three secure spots on the Olympic team. The Texan was now an Olympian.

“For four years, that had been one of my biggest goals…to make the team. When I was 17 I had barely missed it. I said that day that I was going to make it. It was an unbelievable feeling. I had a lot of family there.

Coach Moore was there. It was just so special. If it weren’t for her I wouldn’t have been a thrower.”

While she had qualified, she was also aware that based on her abilities she was not in a position to win that year in Rio. In a very mature assessment, she recognized that Rio would be her training ground for the 2020 Olympics. “The girl who won in Rio was 25. I

will be 24 or 25 in 2020. My goal was to not get last (in Rio.) I did not get last.” She was the second youngest in the field and had the least amount of international experience.

With her sights set on the 2020 Olympics, prior to the trials, Shelbi had already decided not to return to A&M. The athlete turned pro. “I’m really family oriented. Being away from home at college for four years was a real struggle for me. I was distracted. It was what I needed to do. I think that’s why I was so successful at the trials: my family. I’m excited about figuring out how to be a professional athlete vs. a college athlete.” But leaving A&M left her with no facilities, and no access to trainers and navigating life as an unattached athlete.

“They have the things you need, cold tubs, treatments, everything. I have a cold lake,” she laughed. She’s T H E S KI N N Y F O R LO CA L WOM EN

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Provided by USATF

Provided by USATF

currently seeking a network of various professionals and facilities in North Texas to help support her as she fulfills her 2020 dreams.

An Olympic team coach at a compound in California offered to help Shelbi from afar as needed, she felt like a full time move to California was not the right choice for her.

“You have to separate yourself from the distractions.

Sometimes you just have to, especially if you have really big goals set.”

Shelbi learned that first hand when she lost her first meet after having been undefeated through college. At the time she was battling a very toxic relationship that friends and family had previously warned her about.

The word of her first loss spread quickly.

“Before I was done competing… people in Oklahoma already knew. I was in Arizona. People began to hear what was going on in my life and started 14

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to really notice. Once I started picking the people that I wanted to keep in my life, it started going more smoothly.” She separated herself from the folks that told her she wasn’t going to make it.

In pursuit of her goal, she also had to overcome a back injury that even some of those close to here were not aware of. “There was a time when I needed someone else to pick up my discus for me.” The doctors believed she would never throw again but were reluctant to tell her. “I would bend down to pick up my dog and not be able to get up.” But she never stopped working.

Shelbi Vaughan’s millennial generation has been accused of being overly sensitive, self-centered and lazy, as young people whose helicopter parents spoiled them with participation trophies. But that’s not what you’ll find when you speak to this former and, if she has her way, FUTURE Olympian.

A product of sacrifice and dedication, the girl who

has become known as the Throw Princess has given up a lot to achieve her goal of being making the Olympic team. But, she will be the first to tell you that she has no regrets at all and is also quick to express incredible gratitude for her mom and family for their sacrifice.

The athlete also has a heart for service, partnering with Soles4Souls, a not for profit global social enterprise committed to fighting poverty through the collection and distribution of shoes and clothing. “I started this because I coached a track team over the summer and one of the athletes came to run in Vans. Vans are not the best running shoes, so I went to my car and grabbed a pair of tennis shoes and told the young guy that if the shoes fit then he can keep them. Luckily they fit.

After that day, I noticed how many of the athletes didn’t have good running shoes so I was on a mission to find

“A lot of my success only came when I decided to believe in myself.” as many as I could for them. After that I wanted to do more, so I started a shoe drive.” Before Shelbi left for Rio she had collected around 200 pairs of shoes. She now has a drop off location at Heavenly Ham in Weatherford and is hoping to continue the mission in 2017.

Vaughan’s advice to other young athletes? “Don’t ever stop working hard… don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. Set a goal and do whatever it takes to get there. Anything is possible so long as you believe in it and yourself.”

“I didn’t have much confidence in myself as a kid.

When people told me I was going to be good or that I was good, I didn’t believe them. I thought they were crazy. A lot of my success only came when I decided to believe in myself.” PCLS

T H E S K I N N Y F O R LO CA L WO M EN

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FOR THE

LOVE LAND OF THE

BY SAR AH GOODING PHOTOS BY LANDI WHITEFIELD PHOTOGR APHY AND PROVIDED BY BRETT WOLF

W

orking the land, being outdoors and staying active have always been important for Brett Wolf, who grew up fishing, hunting and working on his grandpa’s farm in the Lake of the Ozarks region of central Missouri.

This is in spite of the series of events that marked Brett’s path to his current life in Parker County, including a tour of duty in Iraq, an IED attack, amputation of both legs above the knee and other challenges — none of which have been allowed to slow him down.

In fact, in recent years Brett has transferred his passion for staying active with hard work into WolfPack Services, a small business he runs along with his wife, Jennifer.

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The business combines Brett’s training in welding with his enjoyment of doing odd and end jobs with his Bobcat®, keeping him busy with the active life he’s always enjoyed.

FROM MIDWEST TO IRAQ “I grew up in a small town on a farm,” Brett said of his hometown of Tipton, Mo. “I was in FFA and showed hogs and calves, and my grandpa owned cattle and sold bulls and planted and harvested crops like corn, soybeans and wheat. I pretty much worked for him and was supposed to take over his business.”

However, a choice to get caught up in drinking led to other trouble for Brett, who said he had to make a decision about where his life was headed.

With each option leading down a very different path, Brett decided to join the U.S. Army in October 2005 and went to Fort Benning, Georgia for basic training.

“It made me grow up and respect people a little 20

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more,” Wolf said.

He then was stationed in Hawaii for six months with the 25th Infantry Division, and his unit, the 2-35Cacti, deployed in Aug. 2006 for 12 months in Kirkuk, Iraq.

His unit originally was scheduled to be there 12 months, but that timeline was extended by three months.

On Sept. 11, 2007, in what was scheduled to be the company’s final mission, Brett and others in his unit were injured by an IED in Tikrit, Iraq.

Brett doesn’t remember the events of that day. He received severe head injuries in the attack, along with numerous physical injuries.

“I lost both legs above the knee and had my spleen removed,” Brett said. “My right elbow was fractured and now it’s fused in place from the extra bone growth. I had multiple facial injuries and had to have my mouth wired shut, and they had to do reconstructive surgeries on the right side of my face.”

ROAD TO RECOVERY A sense of assurance and adaptable personality kept Brett moving forward after the attack.

“I always believe God has a path for us and things happen for a reason,” Brett said. “I accepted this early on through the recovery, and I think I’ve always had a good way about things. I know I’ve helped a lot of other people by them watching how I’ve gone through this process and staying positive through it all.”

With that conviction, Brett began a long and sometimes difficult recovery process.

“I was in the hospital two months in Walter Reed, and then I went to Tampa for my brain injuries,” Brett said. “I then went to San Antonio and they tried to fit me for prosthetics. I was there for 2 ½ years and they never could get a socket that could fit me full time.”

Brett said this is because his amputations are above the knee and extra bone growth interfered with the sockets. Extra bone growth also resulted in his elbow fusing, and the combination of injuries qualified Brett for a medical retirement from the Army.

“I ALWAYS BELIEVE GOD HAS A PATH FOR US AND THINGS HAPPEN FOR A REASON.”

However, he didn’t give up on his dream of finding a prosthetic that would allow him to walk again, and a break finally came when Brett found a fit with Hangeer Prosthetics.

“I went up to Oklahoma and they fitted me the first time,” he said. “Since that time I’ve not been in a wheelchair. If I go to places that offer a wheelchair, they’ll ask if I want a wheelchair. I sat in one for several years and I don’t want to sit in one again. After sitting in that, it’s unbelievable the freedom you have when you can get back up and you don’t have to worry about having a chair there.”

NEW LIFE IN TEXAS Still, the strain left its impact on Brett’s life and first marriage, and even as he navigated a divorce and settled in to his new home and 18-acre property (courtesy of Homes for Our Troops) he recognized the need to push toward a new goal.

“Growing up on the farm, I had to do welding T H E S KI N N Y F O R LO CA L WOM EN

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to fix equipment, so I already knew how to weld,” he said. “After moving into my house and going through a divorce, I sat around. I needed to get out and do something to keep my mind off stuff, so I went and talked to the VA and decided I needed to go to welding school.”

There he earned certificates in stick, wire and tig welding.

That helped kickstart his journey toward the life he lives today, with his wife, Jennifer, 10-year-old son, Jade and 2-year-old daughter, Kinsley.

“My cousin met him through the Homes for Our Troops,” Jennifer said. “She knew he was here and

“IT’S UNBELIEVABLE THE FREEDOM YOU HAVE WHEN YOU CAN GET BACK UP AND YOU DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT HAVING A CHAIR THERE.”

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called me and said, ‘I’m going to have you add someone through Facebook and you just need to accept it.’ We talked over Facebook for two years but had never met in person.”

Jennifer said when she graduated from Tarleton State University she invited Brett to her graduation party and he did not come, but the two met later that day and Brett immediately hit it off with both she and her son. The two began dating a few months later in September, were engaged by February and now have been married three years.

“My wife also has been through hard times,” Brett said. “I think that’s one thing that has brought us closer together as a couple.”

“We understand what’s important now,” Jennifer said.

The two also have worked together as Brett has transformed hobby work on their land into a business.

“I’ve done a lot of work on our property,” Brett said.

“I built a fence on the property, I’ve dug out the pond and have it fully stocked with fish. I had started doing odds and ends jobs for people.”

In the process, he has added a number of Bobcat® buckets and attachments, a heavy-duty Brush Hog® mower and also has incorporated his welding knowledge into the business, although there are some jobs made more challenging by his service injuries.

Brett and Jennifer said they also have made a priority of paying their blessings forward through Servolution and other opportunities around the area.

“We’re thankful for all the opportunities — Homes for Our Troops, starting our little company together, growing our family — it’s all been a blessing,” Jennifer said.

For more information on WolfPack Services, please visit them on Facebook by searching WolfPack Services.

Brett can be reached at 813-391-9537 or brett.wolf83@ gmail.com, and Jennifer can be reached at 817-999-9214.

PCLS

Photo by Kimberly Brian

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Wedding • Family • Newborn • Senior

lindsey-sullivan.blogspot.com 817-995-7674

Feel Better. Live Well.

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Optimum recovery • Newest building in Parker County • Post fracture or joint replacement • Stroke recovery & cardiac rehab • Skilled medical care following hospitalization • Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy • Long-term care beds available • Accepting Medicare, some managed • Care plans, Medicaid & Private Pay • Diabetic rehab • Private Suites available with in-room oxygen 300 Crown Pointe Blvd. | Willow Park, TX 76087 | Office 817.757.1200 | Fax 817.887.4008 | Willowparkcare.com

Locally owned & operated T H E S KI N N Y F O R LO CA L WOM EN

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Stories of the people whose passions are building the new Parker County.

community

The Entrepreneur Life

By Tori Mortensen Photos by Whitney Chilton Photography and provided by Bert Thompson

What does it take to fulfill the dreams of a lifelong entrepreneur in Parker County?

Bert Thompson

owner of Mike’s Westside Rental, will tell you it takes prayer and people.

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B

ert Thompson cut his first rental deal as an eleven-year-old entrepreneur growing up in East Fort Worth. The son of an automotive repair shop owner, Thompson decided he was going to mow yards in order to earn the money for a motorcycle he wanted.

“Well, who’s equipment are you going to use?”

His father asked.

“I’m going to use yours, Dad.” “Do you know what the rent is on that equipment?” replied his father.” You can use all of my equipment, but I want my yard mowed every Friday.”

In sixth grade he had six yards, by his senior year at Texas Wesleyan, Bert was running a couple of full service commercial and residential landscaping crews out of his father’s shop. In 1999 his dad retired, “Dad’s retirement lasted a week before he went to work for me” he laughs.

In late 2003, Bert lost his mother to breast cancer and in 2007 his father died of cancer as well, just six weeks after being diagnosed. Bert’s daughter was a year old at the time. He decided it was time to transition out of his, now very successful and very demanding, first business in order to spend more of that time with his own young family.

Following the sale of his first business, the Thompsons, then Fort Worth residents, visited Trinity Bible Church in Willow Park as guests of his wife’s boss. After the service that day, Bert told his wife, Brigit, that he felt like this area may be where

the family belonged. The people and the feel and the pace of life in Parker County that residents have come to love spoke to him that day. The couple found a lot in Weatherford, prayed about it, and put their Fort Worth home on the market. “Our house sold in 3 days,” said Bert. The family bought the Parker County lot, built a home, and have been members at Trinity Bible Church since 2009. Their two children, Caroline and Clayton, also attend school at Trinity Christian Academy.

When a former landscaping client turned mentor and friend, Mike Patton, was in the market for a new partner for his thriving Graham rental business, Mike’s Westside Rentals, Bert stepped in as owner and shortly after nominated Weatherford as a potential second location.

Bert confirmed that he had made the right assessment of the quality of the people in Parker County when paperwork led neighbors to believe he was building a public storage facility near their neighborhood rather than an equipment rental business. Fifteen residents showed up to oppose the business at a zoning meeting. A week later the misunderstanding was resolved when Thompson was invited by the residents to present his plan at a neighborhood meeting in the home of one of the protesters. That presentation turned into a party, complete with a full spread of food and drinks provided by the residents. It also included a surprise reunion with another former East Fort Worth native.

Thompson’s father had worked on her parents’ vehicles. The entrepreneur left that night with a letter of support signed by every resident that had previously been in opposition and with an even deeper appreciation for the people and community that he and his family have chosen to call home. PCLS

Mike’s Westside Rental is set to open its new Weatherford location at 449 S.W. Ric Williamson Memorial Highway in early 2017.

W il low Park

Baptist Church A Church on an Eternal Mission

“Fearless” Women’s Conference COMING UP

APRIL 8TH WITH GUEST SPEAKER

Lisa Harper

SERVICE TIMES: Sunday Mornings 8:30, 10:00, 11:30 Sunday Evenings 6:00 Wednesday Evenings 7:00

817.441.1596 www.willowparkbaptist.org 129 S. Ranch House Rd. Willow Park, 76008

Pastor, Clark Bosher

We wish you a Happy New Year and Prosperous 2017!

INDIVIDUAL AND BUSINESS TAX AND ACCOUNTING SERVICES

800 Autumn Ridge Dr. | Granbury, TX 76048 | 817-573-2484

www.addingtoncpa.net T H E S K I N N Y F O R LO CA L WO M EN

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community

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Rebirth of a Building Photo courtesy of Texas Histo

rical Commission

BY SARAH GOODING PHOTOS BY AKO PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROVIDED BY SHANNON BYRD OF JORDAN TAYLOR & CO.

F

or more than 10 years, the historic Carter Ivy building sat empty in Weatherford’s downtown district before being lovingly restored and reopened by two friends dedicated to its rebirth as a retail outlet.

Roanna Ballew and Shannon Byrd fell in love with the building and its heritage while searching for a location to set up a Weatherford branch of Jordan Taylor & Co., a Southlakebased boutique furniture and accessory store.

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GENERATIONS OF HISTORY The original building at 120 N. Main was built in the 1870s for J.R. Lewis and Co., which built buggies at that location until a catastrophic fire in 1901 destroyed the back part of the building.

Shortly thereafter, the location was purchased

by Thomas Carter and William Ivy, who rebuilt on the same site, opening it as the Carter Ivy Hardware Company in 1902. Generations of the Carter family ran the store for more than 100 years, building its reputation as a place where customers could find anything they might need, including guns, water heater tanks, tractors, screws, nails, bolts and an almost unimaginable assortment of other odds and ends.

Byrd said one member of the Carter family, Sam Carter, was particularly legendary for knowing exactly where everything was within the store’s diverse merchandise.

The hardware store was old school in all its operations, with no HVAC, computers or other 32

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technology, but loyal customers kept their accounts with the Carter family until the death of third-generation owner Randy Carter in 2004.

A LOVING RESTORATION In the years that followed, the Carter Ivy building was boarded up and the contents auctioned off. The building then went into foreclosure and eventually was purchased at auction by Randy and Pete Cheek.

Nearly 10 years later it caught the eyes of Ballew and Byrd as they looked through downtown Weatherford for the perfect home for their new business venture.

They quickly located contact information for the Cheeks, gave them a call, and found themselves inside the building 15 minutes later.

That showing revealed a two-story building, loft, and basement with a tremendous amount of potential, but also provided a clearer picture of just how much work the project would entail.

Still, the friends were undeterred.

“When Shannon and I looked at the building, we decided, ‘We’re not going to leave without it,’” Ballew said, adding that the two women personally oversaw the building’s renovation, learning the ins and outs of construction along the way. “There was a lot more work than we ever imagined, but we had so much fun.”

For months, the women came in wearing their oldest clothes and spent their days hauling out junk, deep cleaning and dreaming while going through the permit process. Construction finally began on March 17, 2016, and crews were hired to frame out walls, run electrical wiring, redo plumbing and install HVAC. Meanwhile, the women spent their time continuing the large task of cleaning, stocking inventory and seeing to the finer touches of the restoration.

Of course, the process provided plenty of stories, and Byrd said it seemed like almost every project had to be done twice, including ordering glass and installing the building’s new front door.

Along the way, the friends also braved heights to hang out the upper windows while painting exterior trim and spent one evening on the roof watching the sun set as the air conditioning units were installed.

Byrd said that particular day was long and emotional, filled with hard, heavy work capped off by an almost unspeakable joy as the building was prepared for a new century of operations.

“This building has never had an HVAC system, and we got to be the ones who put something new in,” Ballew said. “It was kind of like giving the building new life,” Byrd added.

MINGLING PAST AND FUTURE Peach Festival weekend provided the perfect opportunity to open Weatherford’s Jordan Taylor & Co., which officially opened for business July 9, 2016.

The formerly dark, cold building with boarded-up windows now is brightened by light streaming through the new windows. The bricks have been tuck-pointed inside and out, and the worn pine floors now provide a backdrop for the rugs, furnishings and accessories on display.

But the building’s history is not lost, and the women love hearing memories from customers — of visiting the hardware store with their fathers or of the building’s storied past — as they visit the renovated store.

Throughout the renovation, Byrd and Ballew also ensured that the building’s most notable historic elements were preserved, including the 1875 mechanical lift at the front of the building, which has the distinction

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of being the first lift (future elevator) installed in Texas.

“It truly is one of our most amazing things,” Byrd said.

The vault in the back also remains, along with stories of its use by the local bank to prevent catastrophic losses during robberies.

“We were told the bank would carry bags of money over to the hardware store and store it in the vault,” Byrd said, adding records show very small losses any time the bank was robbed.

The women said the preservation and upgrading of the building, as well as the new store, have been very well-received “It’s been amazing,” Ballew said. “Everyone who comes in says, ‘Thank you so much for bringing this here.’” PCLS

Photo by Declaring His Glory

Photography

A

s a part of Jordan Taylor’s give back program, the specialty store offers an array of Grace & Grit boxes. The boxes are designed to inspire and encourage young girls through historical female figures and their stories. Launched in February of 2016, Grace & Grit is a subscription service that teaches girls essential life skills and confidence through customized monthly boxes filled with challenges, lessons, and gifts.

All proceeds from the sales of Grace & Grit boxes help benefit Gracefully Strong, a Parker County organization that benefits girls in our community. Gracefully Strong strives to be proactive instead of reactive, encouraging conversations, personal strength, grace for yourself, and grace for others. It’s how Stark teaches young girls to empower themselves, in a healthy, positive way.

For more information about Grace & Grit, visit their website www.graceandgritbox.com and stop by Jordan Taylor & Co. to pick up a box.

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community

Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT:

Debra Wakeland

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WHAT’S YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT AND HOW HAS IT SHAPED YOU? My greatest achievement is my son, Joe Wilson Wakeland IF YOU COULD TRAVEL ANYWHERE, WHERE WOULD YOU GO AND WHY? Sandals Resorts, Grande Antigua (I want to visit every Sandals Resort, it’s on my bucket list!)

IF YOU HAD TO PURGE ALL BUT 5 POSSESSIONS, WHAT 5 THINGS WOULD YOU KEEP? 1. Contacts (Glasses) 2. iPhone

3. Jeep 4. Wedding Ring & Anniversary Watch 5. Lake House WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR TOMBSTONE TO SAY? Lived life to the fullest!

IF YOU WON THE LOTTERY, WHAT’S THE FIRST EXTRAVAGANT THING YOU WOULD BUY? I would buy a jet to travel the world!

WHAT ARE YOU MOST AFRAID OF? Sirens!

WHAT SKILL WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN AND WHY? Piano, to entertain.

DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT DAY. Breakfast out, estate sale finds, golf, dinner and a good movie and most importantly, coming home to a clean house!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEAL? Chicken fajitas with a frozen top shelf margarita.

IF YOU COULD LIVE IN ANY HISTORY PERIOD, WHICH WOULD YOU CHOOSE? The 1960s, where it appeared that family was always first and children treated their parents and one another with respect.

WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST PET PEEVE? Answer #1: To hire a handy man, business, construction person and they not follow through

on their bid or their word!

They double their initial bid, don’t finish their work and run out on the job. Answer #2: caps and hats on men’s heads while dining, and smokers not being courteous to others.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOUR CAREER? That I am making a difference in someone’s life, daily.

ASIDE FROM NECESSITIES, WHAT ONE THING COULD YOU NOT GO A DAY WITHOUT? Coffee and the love of my family and my pets WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL? Band, loved being a Springtown High School Majorette and of course Theater, which truly has helped me through life, much more than any science or math class.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS? Having breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks in the coolest city on the planet, the hip happening Weatherford, Texas, whereby there will be art galleries, music playing

on all street corners and lodging, all downtown!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE FAMILY TRADITION? Boating, fishing and playing golf with family.

WHAT’S THE WEIRDEST TALENT YOU HAVE? Cake decorating and knowing sign language.

WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING RIGHT NOW IF YOU WERE NOT ANSWERING THESE QUESTIONS? Creating the Christmas window decorating contest flyer for the Central Business District.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Blue Bell Chocolate WHICH ANIMAL BEST REPRESENTS YOU AND WHY? A Snow Leopard - that is what I am at age 57 deemed by a group of old friends!!! Ha no longer Cougar!

WHAT FAD DO YOU WISH WOULD COME BACK, AND WHICH DO YOU WISH WOULD GO AWAY OR STAY GONE FOREVER? I loved halter tops and more importantly bell bottoms, still have a few.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE?

Psalms 5:3 focuses on finding the joy in the journey.

“Oh Lord in the morning you hear my voice.” I love having coffee in the morning looking at the lake and preparing my mind and soul for the day.

WHAT’S THE CRAZIEST THING YOU’VE EVER DONE? My sisters and I would back the car home - it took off the mileage! Long story. PCLS

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Putting your health above it all.

At Texas Health Neighborhood Care & Wellness Willow Park, we will be there for you and your loved ones. With an experienced staff and advanced care, our dedication is to your health. Whether you need 24-hour emergency care, a mammogram or anything in between, we’re equipped to handle your health care needs.

Advanced Imaging Behavioral Health Cardiac Rehabilitation Emergency Services Laboratory Services Physical Therapy Public Fitness Center

1-877-THR-WELL | TexasHealth.org/Willow-Park

Doctors on the medical staff practice independently and are not employees or agents of the facility. Š 2016

community

LIVESTOCK

Lessons

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BY LINDSAY GA RRETT PHOTOS BY LINDSEY SULLIVA N PHOTOGRA PH Y A ND PROV IDED BY STEPH A NIE A LDRIDGE A ND K ATH Y SEA RS

N

ot all life lessons as a young kid are learned in a sports arena. For a large majority of Parker County youth, the show arena provides positive instruction and growth. The lessons learned and the responsibility bestowed upon youth livestock showmen is so beneficial that a group of over one hundred adults in the county have dedicated their time to ensure the future of agriculture in Parker County remains strong.

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The Parker County Livestock Improvement Association (PCLIA) was founded in 1949 with the purpose of promoting livestock and agriculture. “At the time, youth could exhibit breeding and/or market animals and crops. Since then the organization has expanded to include agriculture mechanics projects.

While some things have changed, the organization continues to focus on the breeding and feeding of better livestock and the production of better agricultural products through education, recreational exhibits, meetings, shows and giving encouragement to 4-H and FFA members throughout the county. The desire to inform and improve the agriculture industry through our youth has not waivered in our 67 years,” said Sheryl Kelley, long time board member and treasurer for PCLIA. Sheryl is a former livestock exhibitor and mom to a former livestock exhibitor.

In 2016, the county saw over 500 youth exhibitors 44

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with over 1,400 livestock, crop, and agriculture mechanic projects and PCLIA only expects the numbers to increase. “As the rest of world turns to a more urban lifestyle, it is great to see so many Parker County youth realizing the importance of the production of agriculture and wanting to be involved,” Sheryl said.

Because of the expected rise in exhibitors, the PCLIA is making plans for larger facilities. PCLIA governs and organizes the county livestock show every June, held at the Parker County Sherriff’s Posse showgrounds. Through fundraising efforts, the group has made updates to the existing facilities, but is looking towards future expansion.

“We have been able to buy new bleachers, make handicap accessible adjustments, build new pig pens and more. However, our ultimate goal is to build a bigger facility that makes it as safe, convenient and comfortable as possible for these animals and the

kids. Unfortunately, with the location of the building, expanding upon the existing facility is limited, so we are looking at a new location within the showgrounds to build a completely new facility,” said Dee Lambert, PCLIA volunteer, former livestock exhibitor and mom to former livestock exhibitors.

One of the main vehicles for raising money is the Grand Champion Gala. January 7, 2017 will be the third annual gala, with a goal to raise money through the sponsorships, dinner, and live and silent auctions. The night will also feature special entertainment by Fort Worth local, Chad Prather.

Chad is well known for his social media humor videos and is considered one of the fastest growing public personalities. An entertainer and storyteller, Chad uses music, motivational speaking and comedy to provide entertainment and inspiration. He is also the host of Ride Television Network’s “It’s My Backyard.”

In addition to the entertainment for the night, many of the 4-H clubs and FFA chapters will donate items,

like BBQ pits, picnic tables, floral arrangements, fire pits and other similar items to the auctions. Additionally, the live auction will feature furniture, custom tooled leather belts, spa packages and much more.

Another fundraising event PCLIA relies heavily upon to support the increasing demand for a bigger facility is a golf tournament. The 2017 golf tournament will be held in April 28 at the Canyon West Golf Club in Weatherford.

The Peaster FFA program is a great reflection of the desire there is to know and learn more about agriculture, with over one third of the high school enrolled as members of the FFA. While 4-H and FFA are not limited to just exhibiting livestock, there are a lot of realities learned and responsibilities gained when it comes to showing and raising an animal.

“Not every kid in our classroom is going to be the athletic star or the choir star, but my hope is that they can find their niche in competing in the extracurricular

activities of our program,” said Paul Casey, Peaster ISD agricultural science teacher, “showing livestock doesn’t take talent; it takes hard work and I love to watch kids devote themselves to the care of these animals and work with them daily to improve their showmanship skills and see success linked to that hard work.”

It’s this same hard work and responsibility that fuels the PCLIA volunteers. “These kids are asked to be financially responsible as they purchase and care for their animals, as well as wise in the way they monitor the animals’ diet, care for the animal every morning and night, train them to be show ready and more. What an awesome, hands on, lesson to learn at such a young age! In addition, these kids learn about winning and loosing with grace and those are skill sets that will carry over into many aspects of life,” said Dee. Weatherford ISD agricultural science teacher, Amber Jennings is passionate about creating agricultural advocates with her 500 plus students.

finish my degree. I knew I couldn’t quit and come home and tell the members who had given me the scholarship that I hadn’t stuck it out in college,” he recalled. Paul has taught agricultural classes in the county for 24 years now and is watching his own kids show under PCLIA. Between the friendships made, the leadership skills and responsibilities gained, along with life lessons learned in the barn and the show arena, the benefits of showing livestock are too many to list. It’s not just the youth recognizing the value of agriculture; 93 percent of university leaders reported that agricultural experience is valuable in deciding upon the allocation of departmental scholarships and statistics say that those involved with agriculture graduate at higher rates.

PCLIA is dedicated to preserving and providing a future for agriculture, particularly youth showing livestock. PCLS

“LEARNING TO DO. DOING TO LEARN. EARNING TO LIVE. LIVING TO SERVE.” “Showing livestock helps these kids become better advocates for the industry. There is a huge misconception by the general public and lawmakers about where food comes from and the care provided to animals,” she said, “These kids are working hard to raise these animals in low stress environments, with proper medication, when necessary, and with the best care they can provide them, in the most ethical manner they can provide too. Because they are part of production agriculture now, they can be better advocates and citizens today as well as in the future as they share the story of agriculture.”

Many Parker County youth are also impacted by the 12-14 scholarships given annually by PCLIA. Paul, whose father showed under PCLIA, received a scholarship from the association in 1988 for his dedication to showing pigs and lambs. “I was the first in my family to go to college and this scholarship not only motivated me to go, but it held me accountable to T H E S KI N N Y F O R LO CA L WOM EN

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community

Photo by Janzen Jackson Photography

Zonta Club of Parker County:

Where Women Come to Serve

By Halsey Clark

Photos provided by Zonta Club of Parker County

T

oday’s world is a scary place for a woman. When you walk to your car, you walk purposefully. You keep your daughter close. You do not fidget with your keys or talk on the phone. You keep your eyes up and alert. You open your car, get in, and lock the doors.

You take a deep breath and drive off, relieved not to be a statistic that day. This is how many of us live our lives – defensive.

Sadly, there are women who live in fearful situations much worse than this every day. According to statistics through UN Women, women and girls account for about 70 percent of all human trafficking cases worldwide. More than 700 million women worldwide alive today were married as children. More

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than 1 in 3 were married before age 15. Some national statistics suggest that around 70 percent of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner. These numbers are just a few to represent the great need that is longing to be met from anyone who can help.

The Zonta Club of Parker County has made it their mission to create hope and give help to women and girls near and far who are in need. Zonta International is a leading global organization of professionals empowering women worldwide through service and advocacy.

There are Zonta Clubs in 67 countries and over 28,000 members as of 2016. Founded in 2002 in Parker County, there are thirty-two active members, a sort of “sister

club” Zonta President, Tanya Hodges, calls it. Besides giving back, it’s the lifelong friendships that have resulted from serving together that Hodges treasures.

Director Kay Huse describes the bunch as a “strong group of professional women working together raising funds to change gender equality.” The group meets every month at North Side Baptist Church to discuss and plan the many service projects they take on throughout the year. For Huse, it’s these moments in Zonta that are her favorite, “when we as Zontians come together to make a difference in our community.”

This “sister club” is not for the lady who is worried about breaking a nail. These women build homes, feed families, donate coats, and provide water to villages.

They work with Habitat for Humanity, Center of Hope, Freedom House, UNICEF, Parker County Health Foundation, 16 Days of Advocacy, Parker County Committee on Aging, CrossRoads Ministries, and Star and Strides.

One of their favorite projects is happening now.

This month they will hold their annual Amelia Earhart Luncheon. A former Zonta member herself, they honor Earhart with a luncheon each January to raise money for their scholarships. Every May, the chapter awards scholarships to young women continuing their education. In 2016, Zonta of Parker County was able to gift fourteen scholarships through fundraising and donations.

The scholarship application will be available on the Zonta of Parker County website this month.

Information will be delivered to all Parker County high school counselors and applications will be due by midMarch. Recipients will be chosen in April and invited to the club’s “Status of Women” luncheon held in May. For Hodges, with every scholarship, project, and dollar earned, Zonta of Parker County brings hope and encouragement. “I’m proud and honored to be a part of our Parker County Club where we are improving the lives of women and girls in our community as well as around the world.”

For Huse, Zonta brings awareness. “It has made me very aware of the struggles that women have all over the world, especially with human trafficking, child brides, lack of healthcare, and poverty. Zonta has made huge strides in educating women and bringing change around the world. My hope is more women will join and take the pledge to end violence against women.” PCLS

For more information about Zonta of Parker County or the “Status of Women” scholarship application, please visit www.zontaparkercounty.org.

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I

kard Elementary held their first ever Color Run benefiting the PTA on October 14th. It was a colorful

event, hosting dozens of vendors, a large turnout of runners, and fun to be had by all. Weatherford staples, Funky Munky Shaved Ice and Shep’s, were on location to feed the hungry crowd. It was a fun fall day!

Photos by Janzen Jackson Photography

m u n it y m o C s o o R I ka r d Co lo r R u n

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DR. GOODWIN’S PASSION GOES

“Beyond Smiles” FAMILY, COSMETIC, AND IMPLANT DENTISTRY • Busy? Before & after work hours • Family block appointments

817.800.9145 | 709 N FM 1187, Ste 600, Aledo aledodentistry.com

• Nervous? Sedation Dentistry available

Each quarter Goodwin Dental Goes Beyond Smiles to spotlight some of the incredible people they are blessed to call patients.

A

mber Kissner and Trudy Smith met in Brownwood at Ron Jackson State School, doing prison ministry with incarcerated young women, ages 12-18. “We like to introduce each other with ‘We met in prison!’; it gets people interested so we can share about prison ministry.”

They are involved in Epiphany ministries, which offer the Good News of Jesus Christ to the inmates, sharing his grace and

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forgiveness, regardless of the crimes they have committed. “Most of these girls have grown up in difficult, abusive situations, and they have made some bad choices. What a joy it is for them to experience God’s mercy and grace!”

To learn more about Epiphany MInistries of Texas, visit texasepiphany.com or contact trudysmith@aledoumc.org.

Goodwin Dental patients Trudy & Amber

faith

The Miracle of

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BY TORI MORTENSEN PHOTOS BY LINDSEY SULLIVAN PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROVIDED BY THE HART FAMILY

As the cliché goes, big things (extraordinary, even outright MIRACULOUS things) come in small packages, in fearless, energetic packages like preschooler Jack Hart.

B

efore I met three-year-old Jack Hart, I met his oddly-colored green, plastic-muscled Hulk.

Like most energetic young boys, Jack is utterly obsessed with superheroes, likely drawn in by the characters’ miraculous super powers, good deed doing and daring rescues.

However, unlike the majority of preschoolers, Jack’s short life has already played out like one of those superhero stories that he has come to love. A story of an out of this world rescue, full of superhuman miracles which his mother believes is all part God’s special plan for Jack.

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On July 30, 2016, Aledo residents Chad and Khala Hart, their older son Caleb (9) and Jack attended a swimming party at the home of Caleb’s baseball coach.

Jack’s big sister Jourdan (12) was at church camp that week. As the couple began to share their story with me, little Jack added, “I not have my life jacket on.”

Jack was familiar with water, had been wearing his life jacket at the party, but had taken it off, as he got ready to eat. Khala had sent the boy to his Dad who had gone inside briefly to fix a plate.

What happened next was the conversation that every parent fears most. “Where’s Jack? I thought he was with you?”

Seconds later the couple’s eyes shifted to the water.

There they saw Jack’s bright green swimming trunks lying facedown, still, at the bottom of the pool. As Chad pulled Jack from the water, “ He looked lifeless, as blue as a smurf…dead like,” Khala described.

Immediately someone called 911 and Khala, a nurse, initiated CPR. “After a few seconds, I looked at his face and just couldn't do it anymore. Jake Herring (big brother Caleb’s coach and the homeowner) came out and took over for me. I tried to get a pulse and couldn’t… I couldn't trust myself. Jake continued with

compressions and breathing… with every compression it was just water, water, water. The amount of water,” she sighed, “I just don't understand the amount of water.”

“At one point we noticed a bit of blood. He had bitten his tongue. I felt like I should check for a pulse again.” Jake stopped compressions and continued rescue breathing until the fire truck arrived and the ambulance shortly after. While the family admits timing seems to be a bit of a blur, the family is aware that they were on the phone with 911 for 11 minutes.

Chad followed in his car behind the ambulance transporting Jack and Khala the 20-25 minute ride to Cook Children’s Medical Center, where coincidentally she works as a neonatal nurse. Khala called the hospital to let them know that they were coming and also called one of her closest friends to tell them just to pray. She assumed Chad had called the boy’s grandparents, but when he jumped in to save Jack, his phone had been in his pocket. Jack’s dad had to follow behind the ambulance carrying his youngest son and his wife with no way of knowing the boy’s condition, no way of comforting his wife, no way of reaching out to communicate with loved ones. “I didn't know if he was alive,” said Chad.

“I knew we had saved him,” she said, “but I still thought ‘this is not good.’ As a nurse… he just didn't look good. He was just grunting and… He never opened his eyes once.”

Shortly after arriving at the hospital, Jack began responding and he recognized his grandparents by name. The family knew these were good signs, but being in the medical field Khala also knew the challenges that they could be facing with a child that had been oxygen deprived for that amount of time.

“We didn't know if Jack would end up living on a breathing machine… or what…we were obviously so very thankful that he was alive, but I couldn't imagine his personality not being there. You know?”

According to the CDC, drowning is responsible for more deaths among children ages one to four than any other cause except birth defects. More than 50% of all drowning victims treated in emergency departments require hospitalization or transfer for further care.

These nonfatal drowning injuries can cause severe brain damage that may result in long-term disabilities such as memory problems, learning disabilities, and

permanent loss of basic functioning, what the CDC calls a permanent vegetative state.

After only a few days in PICU and a lot of oxygen, Jack was released to go home. “The first miracle was that he survived! The second was that he was the EXACT same Jack as the day before the accident,” Khala praised.

The family knows without a doubt that God performed a series of actual miracles that day in July, putting people and things in place to make this just a PART of Jack’s story, not his ENTIRE story.

Khala stressed, “ The other women at the party had circled up immediately after the accident and just started praying for Jack. We were surrounded by believers. He was lifted up that day.”

They believe Jack was submerged for around 2 minutes, if Chad had stopped to talk to just one person, just one more minute that could have been the difference in Jack surviving.

Jake, who performed CPR, had just been certified for a football program in Azle only 2 weeks prior. Jake had been an athlete at the Naval Academy. His strength and stamina were tremendous and allowed his compressions to be very effective. Most can only perform CPR effectively for a couple of minutes before exhaustion sets in. Jake made it around eight minutes that day with only a few seconds break. It was fresh on his mind and he had the ability to continue CPR until the ambulance arrived. The volunteer fire station that responded had only recently reopened. Another miracle was the close proximity of the ambulance; they had just completed a call nearby and arrived quickly. The party was in rural

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Azle, TX and under other circumstances the ambulance would have been much further away.

“No broken ribs, no punctured lungs not even a bruise from the CPR. None of the negative things you hear about with CPR… Jack experienced none of those things,” Chad added. “One of the doctors came in and said we were in a rare category. We spoke with a physical therapist that had a patient that had survived a drowning and just the physical and mental challenges were… well just even relearning to walk. Relearning EVERYTHING. You just don't see this. A friend of ours has been a fire fighter in the DFW area for fifteen years and had never seen any one survive a drowning. In 15 years” Chad continued.

“One of the practitioners that would see him in the PICU was part of a prayer group on Facebook praying

A few days after the accident, it became evident just how miraculous Jack’s experience was. for Jack. She knew it was likely that she would see him at Cook Children’s. And the next day the practitioner said she had heard of Jack and had been praying for him already. So many things happened. Little miracles.”

A few days after the accident, it became evident just how miraculous Jack’s experience was. The family was in the car discussing a friend’s upcoming white water rafting trip. Khala obviously cautioned that they should “wear a life jacket.”

Jack spoke up from the back seat “I not wear my life jacket.” The couple realized he was remembering the accident. “Obviously as a mom we always want to know why,” said Khala. She asked Jack, “Why did you go swimming with out your life jacket? Did you fall?” Jack motioned windmill arms and said, “ I go whoa.” Khala then asked, “What happened when you were in the water?” Jack mimicked two deep breaths.

“What happened after that?” Khala continued. Hand over hand resting on his chest Jack showed them chest compressions. He was unresponsive during CPR and had never seen a CPR rescue before. At that moment, Khala broke down almost in tears. Feeling like he must be very scared and not quite sure what to do with her

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own emotions, she stopped asking questions.

Later that evening, after returning home she asked him to tell her more about what happened next “after he went swimming without his life jacket.”

“I die.” Said Jack matter of fact.

“What happened after you died, Jack? Was Jesus with you?”

“No, God was.” Jack offered.

“We were expecting Maybe Superman. I fly.” joked Chad.

“Well what happened? Did he say anything?

“He said to go home.”

“Were you scared?”

“No” “Did you want to stay in heaven?”

“Yes.” “What did God say when you said you wanted to stay?”

“He said if you want to go swim you have to go home.”

“We asked him what God looked like and he said ‘Like you, Mommy.’ And another time when recounting the story he answered ‘Like Daddy.’

“He doesn't know how to say ‘person or people’

that's just not in his vocabulary,” Chad offered.

As Christian parents of very young children, many often discuss Jesus, but it’s not as often that the bigger, maybe harder to understand, concept of God is discussed. Khala and Chad indicated that this was true in their own home. The family found it comforting that he was able to so clearly talk about God’s presence.

“God told him to go home.” Khala repeated. “God still performs miracles.”

Six months after his real life superhero story took place, I watched as a bold boy dressed in his very own cape, jumped off the armrest of the living room chair.

“He was back in the water within a month. He had such a good experience in heaven that he is really fearless,” smiled Chad.

The boy’s mother smiled softly, “I hope Jack remembers the experience forever. I just can’t imagine how this will CHANGE his life as a believer.”

And change the lives of so many others who will hear your story as well, Super Jack. PCLS For education and information on CPR, please visit www.redcross.org/ux/take-a-class

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Believe Boldly THE PRESSURE TO PRETEND

By Erica Willis | Believeboldly.com

T

he build up to Christmas whispers of magic. As a child, with every page I highlighted in the Sears catalogue, I became more enthralled with December 25th. Unfortunately the celebration only lasted 24 hours and normalcy returned the following day.

Poor December 26th, always the unwanted crazy aunt at the Christmas dinner table.

Every Christmas my emotions floundered back and forth between the joy of celebration and the let down when it ended. “All that build up for this?” I would think. Unfortunately, statistics show that I am not the only one poutylipped after Ol’ Saint Nick slips out of town. Rates of depression tend to spike around the holidays and we see the surmounting stress, 60

unrealistic expectations, or loss of a family member earlier in the year can spell D-I-S-A-P-P-O-I-N-T-M-EN-T for many of us.

When did the most wonderful time of the year become, well… not?

In families world-round, authentic experiences have been traded for perfected performances. We place unrealistic expectations on our family and ourselves for each holiday, and if you can’t make it, fake it. It’s no longer about celebrating the goodness of a Savior born in a manger- it’s about the Instagram picture we can post of that perfectly cooked turkey at Thanksgiving.

It’s pretending Christmas without loved ones that passed is “no big deal.” It’s the New Year’s resolutions of weight loss and new beginnings that leave us

PARKER COUNTY LIF ESTY LE

feeling empty and lost.

Perform and pretend.

Pretend and perform.

No wonder our society is depressed.

“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” - Psalm 42:5 Here’s the truth: Your Christmas cannot always be Pin-worthy. Your New Year may be filled with more #fails than #frills. Your heart may feel more lost than loved. But that isn’t the end of your story.

There is hope.

We must keep our eyes on the eternal. All those presents perfectly arranged under the tree will be torn apart and likely forgotten.

Those five pounds may creep back come Easter

dinner three months later. But hope? It is secured to a steadfast source that never runs dry, from Someone who loves us just as we are. Can our one resolution this year be to place our hope in the hands of a mighty God? When we hurt, can we promise to release our pain through prayer? When we are depressed in the dark, can we look to the light?

God delights in our humanity - flawed and imperfectly perfect - and you should, too.

This life is an enchanting gift, #nofilter needed.

- Erica For more help with depression and/or suicidal thoughts, please contact “Pecan Valley Center’s Crisis Hotline” at 1-800-772-5987

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t is my privilege to serve the insurance needs of local individuals, families and business owners. Getting the right insurance coverage is an important part of protecting your investments, your lifestyle and your family’s financial future.

When you meet with me, you’ll have opportunities to ask questions about your current policies and perhaps learn about additional coverage, features or discounts you are eligible to receive.

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faith

Wholeness

Hope THROUGH

By Tori Mortensen

Photos by AKO Photography and provided by Randi Daniel

Janet Duvall felt a calling placed on her heart while serving in ministry at Carswell Federal prison. She prayerfully answered that calling with a place to support female ex-offenders who want to change their story after completing their sentence, a place she refers to as a “Whole-Way house.”

I

n a plush leather recliner topped with a new, handmade quilt, sat Sanctified Hope’s young board member, Randi Daniel. I listened intently to the petite, brunette beauty in skinny jeans and a light sweater. Randi’s glowing skin and sleek, black leather ballet flats did not scream former federal prisoner, but her emotional story did.

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T H E S K I N N Y F O R LO CA L WO M EN

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Randi Daniel

“I did four and a half years in federal prison on a drug charge. I was released to live in a co-ed halfway house with a couple hundred men and less than twenty women. Everyone is fresh out of prison. You are expected to get a job within 21 days or go back.

They load everyone up on a van and drop you off at the train station to go out and find a job. We were also not allowed to have a cell phone, not allowed to use internet which is obviously how you should be searching for a job these days. It is very difficult.”

“They send you out with these men all day long. I remember a girl that came back pregnant. People came 64

PARKER COUNTY LIF ESTY LE

back failing drug tests and breathalyzers. You basically had all day long to get into trouble. I had my head on straight and came out (of prison) solid, following Jesus. But the devil came on strong there and brought a relationship into my life with a guy at the halfway house.

For six months, I took a step backwards. I was drinking a lot and seeing things from my old life. God opened my eyes and I got out of that. He ended up going back to jail.” Luckily the young woman’s family is supportive and her story is one of triumph. Since her release, Randi has gotten married, serves in her church, has a full time job where she is advancing and will obtain her

bachelor’s degree in human resources this year.

So, when a friend told her about Sanctified Hope, a Christ- centered transitional living program for women who have recently been released from prison, Randi felt like God was calling her. After all, she knew first-hand the impact of those months just after release, “It’s just all so overwhelming. Even just going to Wal-Mart is overwhelming. You are just not set up to succeed.”

While working closely with incarcerated women while serving in a federal prison ministry, Janet Duvall heard many stories similar to that of Randi’s. The inmates express a desire to continue the curriculum and mentor programs they had come to rely on while behind bars. They wanted that same type of training and support after they were released as well. “They were scared. Can you imagine? Some of these women have been there 20 years.” Janet heard the fear in the voices of these women, “What will I do when I get out? Where will I go to start over?”

Often times, upon release, the women have only toxic environments to return to, or maybe no place to return to at all. These women have fulfilled their sentence and have been released from the system, but in many cases the community does not release them.

The women struggle to find housing or to secure a job because hey have a record. Despite having made tremendous changes, even after many have dedicated their lives to the Lord, the community is not always willing to open their hearts or their opportunities to the women.

Janet Duvall and Sue Moreland

In the unlikely event that they are able to very quickly gain employment, as many of the traditional halfway houses require, the heart of the woman’s issues may not have been addressed completely. Meaning in some instances, you just have a “criminal with a job. The heart may not have been changed,” a situation close to the mission of Sanctified Hope.

Even knowing how powerful an improvement in the woman’s transitions could be, Janet still states, “I never dreamed of this, but God had this vision for me.”

Miraculously, upon sharing what had been placed on her heart, she found that other people in her network already had plans for something similar on their own, including plans for a building.

After much prayer and joining forces, they were granted 501(C)(3) non-profit status for Sanctified Hope Home for Women within 40 days of applying.

The board enlisted the help of Sue Moreland in establishing the organization. The former Parker County resident had recently retired after 21 years serving as CEO of a remarkably successful transitional program in California. She committed to come back to Texas to assist the team, “I saw God glowing within Janet. It would have taken nothing less than Sanctified Hope to bring me out of retirement and across the country.”

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They went to work designing a safe inviting place for recently released women to live, away from distractions; God’s word would be the foundation upon which the participants would rebuild their lives.

Several months prior to release from prison, a woman looking to transform her life may begin Sanctified Hope’s lengthy application process, a very intentional process in which the team feels the community can have complete confidence. Upon acceptance to the program, a woman will make a twelve month commitment to herself, to her new home and her community, and to a life free of drugs, alcohol and sexual activity while in the program.

She must also fulfill all of the obligations of her parole. She will live on the grounds, have a personal mentor and will complete well known Christian studies including Making Peace with Your Past, Search for Significance, Financial Peace and evidence based reentry curriculum. These programs will address the WHOLE woman, not just the crimes for which she They went to work designing a safe inviting place for recently released women to live, away from distractions; God’s word would be the foundation upon which the participants would rebuild their lives.

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was incarcerated. She will also have an opportunity to serve within her home by doing household chores and preparing meals. She will serve her neighborhood by working in the property’s vegetable garden and by sharing the harvest with the nearby residents. She will also be expected to attend church and volunteer with the foundations and organizations helping to fund the home.

She will take personality and strength assessments, seeking to identify the dreams she may have once had for herself. A dream maybe she lost along the way. The program even plans to assist the woman in exploring ways to earn non-traditional income using her skills and gifts, such as an Etsy or social media based business.

She will also work closely with Center of Hope where she will also receive more job training. While many local businesses have committed to hire the women, the organization prays it will also eventually have a socioeconomic business enterprise where the women can work. An example of this can be seen in the success of Center of Hope’s Hope Chest. “Center of Hope has been so helpful right from the beginning. It is so wonderful,” shared a board member.

After completing her job training, Sanctified Hope expects that a participant will become employed and begin to cover the $300 a month program fee for the

remainder of her program, an amount typically paid by the participant’s family, a foundation, church or private donor up until that point. As long as there is room in the sixteen-bed facility, Janet hopes the women will stay as long as they are able.

In a Huffington Post article criminologist Paul Heroux’s wrote, “The three most pressing re-entry challenges are: a place to live/housing; drug treatment/ medical care; and employment. A deficiency in any one of these three is a serious risk factor to relapse…

The attitude of society is to just leave them locked up, because they deserve it…But keeping them locked up becomes impossibly expensive, and in not helping them be successful upon release we are not helping our communities... non-profits and religious organizations have proven to be a big help to the re-entry challenges that the ex-offenders face.”

When an ex-offender arrives at the door of this Christian based non-profit, she is greeted with brand new clothes, her own handmade blanket and prayer shawl and new luxury toiletries all donated by her new supportive community. Even more importantly, in keeping with the organizations mission, she will find housing and Christ-Centered training, education and life skills that lead to career opportunities and to her successful integration into society.

Above all, she will find a prayerful community team that is full of HOPE for her life, a team that prays and plans for her life to be restored and made WHOLE again through Christ’s transforming power. PCLS

Hear the stories of these women and more at the organization’s fundraising gala to be held March 30 at the Doss Center.

For more details on how you get involved with Sanctified Hope,

visit sanctifiedhope.org

Board of Directors: Janet Duvall

Founder/Chairperson

Sue Moreland Executive Director

Randi Daniel, John Gordon Secretary Treasurer

Shaun Herring, Gayle Wells Vice President

Vision Statement:

Restoring lives through Christ’s transforming power.

Mission Statement:

Sanctified Hope is a Christian, nonprofit transitional program for formerly incarcerated individuals offering housing, Christ-Centered training, education and teaching life skills that lead to career opportunities and successful integration into society.

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F

ormer abortion provider, Carol Everett, shared her story of redemption at the Grace House Snapshots

of Life Gala. There was not a dry eye in the house during this night of testimony. Grace House galas serve to bring awareness and support for the organization that gives life to Parker County.

Photos by Declaring His Glory Photography and provided by Grace House Ministries

e G race H o u s Gala f Li f e S n a p s h ot s o

Halsey Clark, Dana Blankenship, Executive Director of Grace House Ministries, Guest Speaker Carol Everett, Hayley Six

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Hometown

Graduates Jason Cornelius Aledo High School Class of ’17 Photo by Whitney Chilton Photography

Kelsey Wooster

Peaster High School Class of ’17

Photo by Declaring His Glory Photography

Brenda Hernandez Weatherford High School Class of ’17

Photo by Declaring His Glory Photography

Sarah Rattan Brock High School Class of ’17

Photo by Declaring His Glory Photography

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Rowlee Johnson Peaster High School Class of ’17

Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

Tylor Evans Weatherford High School Class of ’17

Photo by Declaring His Glory Photography

Pike Langford Brock High School Class of ’17

Photo by Whitney Chilton Photography

Carryngton Steed Peaster High School Class of ’17

Photo by Declaring His Glory Photography

Beatriz Rivera Weatherford High School Class of ’17

Photo by Declaring His Glory Photography

Kaylee Stone Weatherford High School Class of ’17

Photo by Declaring His Glory Photography

Sarah Thomas Weatherford High School Class of ’17

Photo by Declaring His Glory Photography

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health & wellness

PROMOTING L A STING HE A RT HE A LTH in the Neighborhood PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TE X AS HEALTH NEIGHBORHOOD C ARE & WELLNESS WILLOW PARK

F

or many people, maintaining good heart health requires little more than living a healthy lifestyle filled with regular activity and a sensible diet.

For thousands of others, a healthy ticker isn’t so easy to come by and some form of cardiac intervention is needed to maintain lasting heart health. If you or someone you love has undergone a surgical or nonsurgical cardiac treatment, thinking about how to care for your heart after your procedure is just as important as the procedure itself.

Thank goodness there’s a place nearby with a staff committed to helping you achieve better cardiac health

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beyond your initial cardiac treatment. Texas Health Neighborhood Care & Wellness Willow Park provides outpatient cardiac rehabilitative care for Willow Park, Aledo, Weatherford and neighboring communities.

Texas Health Willow Park is part of Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth and the largest health care network in North Texas Texas Health. It’s a name synonymous with trusted, faith-based health care and advanced heart care. When you’re facing the aftermath of a cardiac intervention, it’s reassuring to know that quality cardiac rehabilitation is available close to home.

Who Needs It?

If you’ve suffered a heart attack or have been diagnosed with heart disease, you may benefit from cardiac rehabilitation. An abnormal stress test may prompt you to talk with your physician about the benefits of a rehab program as well.

“We work with individuals who have undergone angioplasty, coronary artery bypass surgery and other heart-related procedures,” says Anita Rigues, BSN, RN, nurse manager of cardiac rehabilitation at Texas Health Willow Park. “The potential benefits of cardiac rehab are far-reaching and many.”

“We’ve had patients tell us that they’ve experienced a greater tolerance for exercise and a reduction in their pre-treatment symptoms, cholesterol levels and blood pressure. We’ve even had patients say they’ve been able to quit smoking after rehabilitation and reduce their stress levels,” Rigues adds.

What is Cardiac Rehabilitation?

Cardiac rehabilitation is a progressive program designed to help you restore and maintain optimal health while helping you reduce the risk of future heart problems, such as a recurring heart attack, heart failure or the need for a heart transplant. The cardiac rehabilitation program at Texas Health Willow Park offers personalized and prescriptive activities in an outpatient setting, including exercise, education and lifestyle modification to keep you on a path to improved heart function.

Cardiac Rehabilitation is for You if You Want To: • Have a better health-related quality of life • Reduce your dependency on medicines to maintain your heart health • Lessen the chance of recurring heart disease • Have more energy and greater exercise endurance T H E S KI N N Y F O R LO CA L WOM EN

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The Heart-Health Difference

The Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at Texas Health Willow Park includes education and continuous EKG monitored exercise therapy conducted by skilled exercise staff members and a dedicated cardiac rehabilitation nurse under the care of a medical staff physician. The team also includes physical therapists, fitness specialists and registered dietitians available to help you stay on the right course.

“There are several factors to consider when choosing a cardiac rehabilitation program,” says Rigues. “In addition to your availability and willingness to follow all of the program requirements, it’s important to consider the impact on your family members or loved ones. Their willingness to support you by embracing the components of your program and, in some instances, undertaking them alongside you can make a big impact on your long-term success.”

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To help you choose the program that’s right for you, Rigues recommends you ask yourself these questions: • How much time will you have to devote to your program?

• Do you desire to engage with others undergoing similar care?

• Are you willing to change your lifestyle and habits if the program necessitates it?

• Are your loved ones in favor of supporting and nurturing you in adopting the required lifestyle changes?

“We recognize that there are other options in cardiac rehabilitation programs. That’s why at Texas Health Willow Park we go the extra mile to help you engage in the best way possible for you,” adds Rigues.

After discharge from the outpatient rehabilitation program, you may choose to continue a maintenance program with a membership at the Texas Health

Fitness Center Willow Park. The on-campus wellness facility is led by qualified fitness professionals dedicated to helping you reach your cardiac fitness goals. An individualized maintenance program can be designed and discussed with you while you complete your cardiac rehabilitation.

If you or a loved one suffers from poor heart health and has been advised by a doctor to undergo rehabilitative treatment, Texas Health Willow Park will be there to help you on your path to lasting heart health.

Doctors on the medical staff practice independently and are not employees or agents of Texas Health Willow Park.

TEXAS HEALTH NEIGHBORHOOD CARE & WELLNESS WILLOW PARK 101 Crown Pointe Boulevard Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-757-1500 www.TexasHealth.org/WillowPark

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Homeowners • Renters Automobiles • Motorcycles Travel Trailers • Bonds Manufactured Homes Commercial Insurance Life • Health Independent Agent/Owners:

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health & wellness

Fitness Revolutions for 2017

BY HALSEY CLARK

PHOTOS BY LINDSEY SULLIVAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Hear from three fitness professionals of Parker County who weigh in on their own fitness experience, their gyms, and how to achieve health and happiness in 2017 by creating healthy living habits that will stick.

according to your true needs, what you do as a career or in sports. Priority is placed on adaptive training, technique and proper form.

The Resurge Clinic in Weatherford offers not only Rodriguez’s unique style of adaptive personal training, but is one of the few places around with a comprehensive approach to the individual or athlete’s health, offering physician’s services, customized IV treatments, nutrition coaching, hormone therapies like T level treatment and even aesthetics all under one roof!

To make 2017 a successful year for your fitness goals, he advises you to approach your fitness and health as a total package with the main focus being on your daily environment, according to what you do in your career,

Toro Sports Performance

Antonio Rodriguez has been training clients

for ten years. Three years ago he created Toro Sports Performance in Brock and recently expanded to a secondary location at the Resurge Clinic in Weatherford. His passion is to help individuals and athletes of all ages succeed by providing them with the tools and mentorship needed to be their best in their everyday lives and careers, as well as on and off the field. His appreciation for hard work and adaptive training developed during his 3 years of college football where he went on to be the first defensive player in Mexico’s history, from a Mexican college program, to go on to play in NFL Europe and the NFL. When you visit Toro Sports Performance, you can expect to be trained to adapt to your environment, 80

PARKER COUNTY LIF ESTY L E

your life or your specific position in your sport. Commit to good eating habits and don’t do CHEAT meals, instead do REWARD meals based on the effort you have put in to your nutrition and training! Success is not given. It’s earned through dedication, by making time – not finding time.

Respect yourself enough to only associate with people that encourage you, that motivate you or even those that want to join you.

Fit USA Family Fitness

Richard Wood has owned or managed

fitness centers since 1970. He served on the Board of Directors for the Association of Physical Fitness Centers for over eight years. Wood joins two of his triplet sons, James and Richard Jr., who are managing members of the club

of ages. Morgan, a Weatherford native and graduate of Weatherford High School, carries a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management from Lubbock Christian University where he played baseball for the Chaparrals. He has obtained many certifications through the International Sports Science Association in the areas of Strength and Conditioning, Fitness Nutrition, and Personal Training, specializing in nutrition, body building, weight training, rehabilitative and adaptive fitness, senior fitness, High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), sport specific and agility training, and balance and core training.

When you visit Texas Health Fitness Center Willow Park, you can expect more than your typical gym.

It’s a wellness facility led by qualified fitness professionals and are attending their final years of college while studying fitness management, accounting and kinesiology. They are both active in physical fitness and have won numerous competitions both in Texas and California.

When you visit FIT USA Family Fitness, you can expect to experience a wide range of people groups that make up the community of Weatherford. The gym focuses on family and prides itself on being available to the public 24 hours a day to fit the demands of anyone’s schedule. With one of the most successful senior programs in the area, the gym offers free memberships to all Silver Sneakers and Silver & Fit members. All group classes are included in your membership.

For parents of young children, this gym conveniently offers Kids’ Club. With an incredible friendly staff and a team of certified personal trainers, FIT USA proves to be a great environment to experience a safe, productive, and enjoyable work out for the young, old, and everyone in between.

To make 2017 a successful year for your fitness goals, Wood would like to encourage you to

dedicated to helping you reach your fitness goals. At Texas Health Fitness Center Willow Park, you’ll enjoy convenient hours and affordable rates with on-site childcare available, so your workouts can fit into your family’s busy schedule.

Membership includes free group fitness classes, access to locker rooms, café area with smoothies, coffee, and healthy snacks, senior-focused programs, fitness and nutrition coaching, and complementary fitness consultations.

To make 2017 a successful year for your fitness goals, Morgan’s tip is to forget about yo-yo or diet plans. These can be beneficial for temporary success, but think about long-term. The key to being successful with weight loss is to make changes you can maintain for the rest of your life. He also suggests you create a healthy combination of diet and exercise. Together they will help you achieve your goals. Don’t let life get you off your fitness track.

Don’t be discouraged if you miss a day at the gym. Instead, try a fun activity with a loved one or opt to take the stairs instead of the elevator to get some extra steps.

PCLS

not procrastinate. The hardest part of becoming healthy is just getting started. Make the commitment to just do it. He guarantees that if you come in and stay with their program three times a week for thirty days, you will find success or they will refund your money.

Texas Health Fitness Center Willow Park

Payden Morgan has been a personal trainer

for five years, training on all levels of fitness, to a variety T H E S K I N N Y F O R LO CA L WO M EN

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two cents

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n March 8,

The median earnings of

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So, if you’re a woman, what

– and this time away from the

growth-oriented vehicles in

steps should you take to make

workforce results in women

your IRA, 401(k) and other

Day is a great occasion for

progress towards this goal?

receiving lower pensions or

investment accounts.

commemorating women’s

• Talk to your spouse

accomplishments. And by

Your first move should

accumulating much less money

International Women’s

be to recognize some of the

in their employer-sponsored

about Social Security. If

making the right moves, you

potential barriers to attaining

retirement plans.

your spouse starts collecting

can eventually celebrate your

Social Security at 62 (the

own achievement of attaining

your financial freedom. First

To give yourself the

of all, a “wage gap” between

opportunity to enjoy a

earliest age of eligibility),

the financial security you

women and men still exists:

comfortable retirement

the monthly benefits will

deserve.

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817-594-7427

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COMBINATION HORSE or SHOW CATTLE PROPERTY Pristine 49+- acre Trinity River ranch featuring 3,569 sq. ft. rock ranch style home. Large gourmet kitchen, spacious rooms, large covered porch. Expansive parking, lushly landscaped pool and grounds. Ag improvements include barn, pens, and cool room to support show cattle operation. Has two guest or worker houses in good condition. Approx. 300 yards of river frontage, coastal pastures, pecan trees, etc.

Call for pricing Tina Hughes | 817.307.2040 Jim Martin | 817.538.6846

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HOMETOWN

Happiness Wishing much love and happiness to Parker County’s newlyweds!

“It ’ s amazing how one day someone walks into your life and you can’t remember how you ever lived life without them.”

Jake & Jennifer Gallaher Est. October 15, 2016

Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

Ben & Kayla Gambrell Est. October 13, 2016 84

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Photos by Janzen Jackson Photography

Photos by Janzen Jackson Photography

Jake & Tristyn Smith Est. September 10, 2016

Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

Photo by Janzen Jackson Photography

David & Casey Hood Est. November 19, 2016

Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

Jacob & Katelynn Townsley Est. August 27, 2016 T H E S K I N N Y F O R LO CA L WO M EN

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home & & family family home

By Erica Willis Photos by Lindsey Sullivan Photogr aphy and Provided by Janet Foster

G

reat love is like fireworks: a fantastic explosion that occurs when two essential elements, color and fuel, are brought together. When the two combine there is beautiful display for all to see. There is a reason we call a love connection “chemistry!”

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PARKER COUNTY LLIFIFESTY ESTYLLEE PA RKER COUNTY

Photo by Mize Tribe Arts

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The love of Charles and Janet Foster has been a lifetime of fireworks, the bright colors of Janet’s personality ignited by the slow and long-lasting fuel of Charles’ steady love. Their marriage is evergreen, the fifty-ninth year of marriage just as good as the first.

Janet is a sweet mix of enthusiasm and love, wrapped in an outgoing exterior. Charles is the strong, silent type, reliable and intelligent. It’s a marriage wrapped in grace, compromise, and what Charles calls, “No fuss.”

As Janet sees it, their love story may have never been realized if not for her determination. She captured the heart of her knight-in-shining-armor while still in high school. “A girlfriend of mine knew Charles. He was moving to Weatherford, but she warned me not to date him. She had already set her sights on making him her own boyfriend, so I was advised to stay away. Well, that was all the incentive I needed! I decided I was gonna go after this boy the minute I met him!” recalls Janet with a laugh.

“He moved August before my senior year. We started dating in September, but began officially going steady by October. One year later we were married!”

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“It only takes a moment to make a memory.”

- Charles Foster They quickly discovered marriage is all about compromise. “I had lived in the same house my whole life so when I married I wanted to move somewhere exciting! Charles had already moved several times and deeply desired ‘roots.’ We compromised by renting for a few years before Charles oversaw the building of our home on land my parents gifted me,” Janet explained.

Their first year of marriage has stories that will go down in family history books, but one in particular still makes them laugh. Janet reminisces, “We had been married six months and I felt so romantic! I wanted Charles to know it! I thought of expressing that love through food- who does that? I worked tirelessly to bake and decorate a cake in the colors of our fall-themed wedding. Unfortunately there was no resemblance to the true colors of our wedding, so he had no idea that was what the cake represented!” Janet laughed. “It was so ugly he would not even let me pack it in his lunch!”

By the end of their first year of marriage, Janet saw the humor in her cake debacle when she realized no one could have known what the cake meant. “That very poor representation of love became a symbol of our true love. Some things are ugly, some are sad, some things are completely misunderstood- but if you love each

other, you can overcome and learn and enjoy!” Every anniversary she makes that same cake, and on October 12, 2016, they ate their 60th.

Their years together have proven that “opposites attract” is true of their love. As much as Janet always had a story to share, Charles remained tight-lipped, unless prodded. His personality is the perfect match for Janet’s over-the-top fervor in all things.

“God knew what He was doing when He put us together. It’s like driving a car having one foot on the gas and the other on the brake. We balance each other out!”

Teamwork seems to be the backbone of this dynamic family, in business and home life. They worked together in real estate where Janet did most of the home showing and Charles did much of the paperwork and major decisions. Janet says, “in our work, I was the mouth and he was the mind!” They even shared equally

in the domestic duties, Charles responsible for grocery shopping and assisting with the regular household chores.

As helpful as Charles was around the house, he was still totally outnumbered by the females in his home.

The Foster girls, Dunrea, Danell, and Darla were 12, 9, and 6 when they found out they were going to have a new baby in the home.

“We were delighted to discover we were pregnant again after the girls, but it came as a surprise six years later! Back then, we didn’t know what the gender of the baby would be before they were born so there wasn’t much we could plan, but we were excited!”

The only request from Charles for their new addition?

“No more names that begin with the letter ‘D.’ I am tired of stuttering!”

They welcomed their son Brad(ley) home

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surrounded by the love of family. “We never had to choose which side of our family we would celebrate with for each special event or holiday. Both sides of the family always celebrated together and it was wonderful!

We were never pulled in one direction or the other- this family or that family- we all gathered together in one place for Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter. It was such a blessing to have everyone living locally during the years we raised our family!”

Their faith and church involvement shaped how they ran their household. They raised their kids in a traditional home where church was a priority and Charles was the “head” of the family. Janet always respected his opinion and let him take the lead in all family manners.

“He has always been wise and I respect him as he

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leads,” says Janet.

Charles’ wisdom helped him in the business world as well. He began “flipping” homes before it was a popular avenue for income. After finding some success, he brought Janet into the real estate world. You could say they were the Chip and Joanna Gaines of their generation!

“When we started out we both had successful careers in our own respective fields, Charles working for General Motors and I as dental hygienist. Over time he grew tired of his job and decided to quit. With an eye for properties, he purchased homes that needed some T.L.C. and restored them, selling them for a profit. He eventually asked me to join him, and we both got our brokerage licenses soon after.”

They built a business from the ground up, following

Photo by Mize Tribe Arts

the lead that Charles had etched out by taking risks and investing in property. They have grown their business over the years and thrived in the world of real estate, Janet earning recognition from the Wall Street Journal as the top 1% in Texas.

But that isn’t the end of their story. Charles is now retired and enjoying his hard-earned rewards of a life well spent. Janet is still thriving as a broker owner of Parker County Realty, and they both love doting on their eleven grandchildren, all of whom are growing up in Weatherford just like their own children did.

“Just remember your husband is truly your best friend, and always look for the best in every situation.

Our love is the result of those two things. As Charles says, ‘It only takes a moment to make a memory.’”

Here’s to twenty more years of those memorable moments, Fosters. Cheers! PCLS

A few of the reasons we are still in love after 60-plus years: • H e is my greatest encourager.

• H e brings me coffee each morning.

• H e meets me in the garage as I arrive home to see if I have anything to carry.

• H e says it only takes a moment to make a memory (a each day). nd he works at making them • H e tells me often, “why don’t you get som e new clothes? ”.

• H e makes up songs and sings them to me • Most of all he loves God, me and his . family more.

P.S. H e still thinks I’m cute at 78.

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Are You Ready?

The 2017 Spring Season begins

April 1!

REGISTER online february 1 through March 18 at

MiracleLeagueParkerCounty.com MiracleLeagueParkerCounty.com

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For more information contact JAMES GRAY at 817-304-2356 | James@miracleleagueparkercounty.com 92

PARKER COUNTY L IF ESTY LE

VISIT US ONLINE

BellsNaturalStone.com 4801 I-20 Frontage Rd. Willow Park, TX 76087

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T H E S K I N N Y F O R LO CA L WO M EN

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The List

SPRING BREAK

#Easy

BACKUP PLANS

M

aybe you envision yourself spending spring break in a tropical local. Toes in the sand, watching your ten-year-old generously build a sandcastle for his little brother. Maybe you imagine spending a week in March watching your husband glide down the slopes alongside your children… cute, coat clad, and having recently completed ski school.

But, then you get real. With unmanageable sports schedules and seasonal activity commitments, between unpredictable weather and kids falling under the weather, because of unexpected expenses or planned family budget cuts... big dreams and big plans for SPRING BREAK, often get BROKEN. Whether it’s due to a lack of planning, lack of time or lack of funds there is no reason to give up the hope of spending quality time with your people over spring break, regardless of your geographic boundaries and no matter your budget.

These #easy spring break backup plans have been recommended to us by busy Parker County mommas who’ve been there. Now there won’t be any coconutfilled palm trees or sounds of waves crashing on the shore… any fresh powder or mountainside Moscow Mules, but these great Texas destinations will rescue 94

PARKER COUNTY LIF ESTY LE

your family from an entire week spent on the couch binge watching all 100 episodes of Saved By the Bell. I am not speaking from experience.

So depart Parker County around breakfast time and you will easily arrive at any of these destinations before lunch. And our guess is, you are gonna find yourself saying “why don’t we plan to do stuff like this more often?”

KEEPING IT SIMPLE CAMPING Mineral Wells, TX

Around 40 minutes WHERE TO STAY: Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway campsite BUDGET: Around $25-40/night DISTANCE FROM PARKER COUNTY:

WHAT’S COOL ABOUT IT?

Once a popular health resort, folks now enjoy tent camping on the park grounds or renting one of the lakeside screened shelters. Your trip should absolutely include rock climbing at Penitentiary Hollow, one of the few natural rock climbing venues in North Texas. Enjoy miles of easy-to-navigate hiking, horseback riding and bike trails. Bring your own boat or rent one of the park’s

flat-bottom boats, canoes, kayaks or rowboats. Fish for catfish, crappie, sunfish and largemouth bass from one of six fishing piers with no fishing license required. They also offer a wide variety of programs, including Kids’ Wilderness Survival, cowboy history through music and poetry, astronomy and wildflower walks.

Recommended by girlmom and adventure lover, Jennifer Harsany.

GUEST RANCHING Graham, TX

DISTANCE FROM PARKER COUNTY: About an hour WHERE TO STAY: Wildcatter Ranch BUDGET: From $200 night

WHAT’S COOL ABOUT IT?

Touted for its peace and quiet, guests rave about Wildcatter’s tranquil setting. Take a ride in the covered wagon to feed breakfast to the small heard of longhorns.

Step in to fix fence or assist the ranch hands. Oversee Wildcatter’s Black Angus cattle operation from the comfort of the ranch jeep or simply spend the day by the infinity pool or in the spa. Guests may chose from one of the 1,500-acre ranch’s 16 cabin suites, each with its own fireplace or may select a guest room in the twostory hotel near the restaurant. Remote two-bedroom cabins are also available. If your family is looking for even more room to breathe, check out the ranch’s stunning four-bedroom home sitting on 26 private riverfront acres and complete with its own pool, outdoor kitchen and movie theater.

Recommended by Dash of Mom blogger, Danielle Boyd.

LAID BACK LUXURY LODGING Glen Rose, TX

DISTANCE FROM PARKER COUNTY: A little over an hour WHERE TO STAY: Rough Creek Lodge and Spa BUDGET: about $700 per couple per night (under 15yo

free) Pricing includes three course, gourmet, Zagat award winning dinner and signature breakfast.

WHAT’S COOL ABOUT IT?

What’s not cool about it? In fact, Trip Advisor rated Rough Creek one of the top 25 small hotels for families in the US. Enjoy a margarita pedicure or a hunter’s massage at the resort’s killer spa, before joining the kids at the multi-level pool adorned with a 66-foot slide, lazy river, and hot tub. Check out the climbing wall, zip line, and bungee trampoline. Rent a horse or a four-wheeler and explore one of the property’s 63 ponds. Take advantage of supervised nightly kids’ parties, smores around the fire pit and movie night on the back lawn.

Don’t forget about the resorts kennel for your family dog or about the fossil hunting, hayrides, rocket launching, kid’s ranch or petting corral. Oh yeah there’s the worldclass food of course.

Recommended by mom, travel and spa enthusiast (and buffalo owner) Bree Worthington Clay.

BIG ADVENTURE AROUND BIG BEND Marathon, TX

DISTANCE FROM PARKER COUNTY: Half a day’s drive WHERE TO STAY: Gage Hotel BUDGET: $225-350 per night

WHAT’S COOL ABOUT IT?

Book a garden casita or one of the pueblo-style adobe brick rooms at the centrally located, historic Gage Hotel.

Take a day trip one hour south into Big Bend National Park. The stunning 800,000-acre national park contains three basic habitats: river, desert, and mountains. Head one hour northwest to the McDonald Observatory, a research unit of The University of Texas at Austin. The observatory is one of the world’s leading centers for astronomical research, teaching, and public education and outreach. Observatory facilities, located atop the Davis Mountains, offer some of the darkest night skies in the continental United States. Return to your hotel for a famous burger at White Buffalo Bar, which was named one of Texas’ Best Hotel Bars by Texas Monthly Magazine.

Recommended by marketing and promotions consultant and mom Brandie Blodgett Mustian.

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Willow Park and Aledo

AledoBraces.com 96

PARKER COUNTY LIF ESTY LE

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home & family

Remodeling the Vacant Katy Jade Hill took a vacant Weatherford home and transformed it into a southwestern masterpiece .

From remodeling to decorating ,

By Lindsay Garrett Photos by Janzen Jackson Photography

S

itting on twelve acres in Weatherford, with goats and horses at the gate to meet guests, is a hidden gem of Parker County. The “cantina/vintage rodeo feel” as homeowner Katy Jade Hill describes it, is so brightly and wonderfully designed and decorated that it only takes a matter of seconds to forget you are in north Texas with the Laredo inspired look and feel.

Katy grew up with a creative mother and learned how to be handy from living on a ranch, but had no true experience remodeling and decorating a home until she was

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handed over the keys to her 3-bed/2bath home on Thanksgiving in 2012.

“I had looked at homes, some new, some old and some in between, but didn’t find any I loved. Then I saw this house and I loved the view and location, but the house itself was terribly outdated and had sat vacant for a few years,” Katy recalled.

“I wasn’t nervous at all to remodel and update it. I was anxious about buying an older home though and the unforeseen problems that might arise with that, but redoing the house was exciting for me.”

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For the next three months Katy stayed in the living quarters of her horse trailer, while her one hired help lived on an air mattress in her new home and the two transformed the old house into a southwestern styled home.

The original state of the home included pink carpets, pink marbled bathtub, book covered drapes, popcorn ceilings and more. When Katy was looking at the home, she peeled back some of the pink carpet and realized that the red brick floors that she fell in love with in the kitchen ran through the whole home. Part of her updates to the home included exposing all the red brick floors that reminded Katy of the streets of Laredo.

The kitchen is now a vibrant collection of colors, with cabinets painted royal/indigo blue against the red brick floors and bright Fiestaware dishes filling the

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china cabinet. “It’s my favorite room in the house. I love to cook and the kitchen is filled with knick knacks from my mom and grandmother, it’s just a very happy place,” Katy said.

The windows of the kitchen help amplify the brightness of the room and she added all stainless steel appliances as part of her remodeling too. Katy, who started painting furniture in college as a side job, redid the gorgeous, muted colored turquoise kitchen table as well.

The living room that was once covered in popcorn ceilings and all white walls, like the rest of the house, is now a retro, fun room with the primary wall being green, and black-and-white photos of Katy’s dad’s former rodeo days cover the room.

“This house sat vacant for quite some time; I don’t think anyone saw potential in it, but when I walked in, I realized I would rather have this older home than a newer home,” Katy said. “One of the things I envisioned was rusted barn tin on the ceilings of the living room, and that is exactly what we did.”

T H E S KI N N Y F O R LO CA L WO MEN

1 01

She tried to avoid using anything new in the home decoration wise, as most items came from flea markets, garage sales and even antique and boutique shops in Parker County, like Miss B’s Antiques and Collectibles.

“I have collected a lot of decor throughout the years, and I really tried to do as much as I could with old stuff,” Katy said. “Twice a year I go to an antique festival in Round Top, Texas, and add more to my collection.

One of my favorite pieces from the festival is the large Charolais cow ranch sign in my living room, mainly because it adds so much color and life to the room, but also because it has sentimental value as my dad used to have cows. I also grew up ranching, so cows bring a sense of ‘home’ for me.”

Katy’s open bedroom makes it a popular hang out when her friends are over and the bathroom was expanded to allow for a horseshoe shaped shower.

The bedroom, like most of the house, features rustic furniture and vintage rodeo art.

It wasn’t just the interior Katy went to work on though; the pastures hadn’t been mowed in quite some

While Katy admits that redoing her home is an ongoing project, the color schemes and decor make guests feel right at home .

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PARKER COUNTY LIF ESTY LE

time when she moved in and fences needed repair work.

The house is surrounded by porches and was part of the reason Katy fell in love with it. Sitting on the back porch today, she has the perfect view of her horses and goats.

“My mom and I were able to get around to redoing the back porch this year, so now I really love it! I have always been an outdoor person and in fact, the day I bought the house I sat on the back porch for two hours,” Katy recalled.

The back porch proves to be her favorite spot as it sits on a higher side of a small valley, facing west, with what Katy says are “unbelievable sunsets.” The chair that hangs on the back porch was hung with purpose; it’s the same spot where Katy sat for hours the first day she bought the home.

A former barrel racer and current graphic design artist and designer, she spends most of her free time drawing, which Katy describes as “southwestern doodle art.” With a lot of cowboy and Aztec themed art, she has successfully garnered over 13,000 followers on her

Instagram account (MissKatyJade) and it doesn’t take long to see the similarities between her house and her art, along with her fashion. This creative side of Katy easily bled over into her remodeling efforts as well.

“I didn’t need much time to think through plans for the house. When I walked in, ideas were popping in my head,” Kate continued. “There was a language barrier between my help and I, so most of my ideas were conveyed through pictures as we worked through the remodeling.”

It’s this same creative side of her that has opened doors for her to continue practicing her interior design skills. Following the remodeling of her own home, Katy has been able to decorate some on the side, including a store in Reno, Nevada.

It’s nearly impossible to walk into this home and not feel the joy and hospitality that the openness and bright colors bring about. While Katy admits that redoing her home is an ongoing project, the color schemes and décor make guests feel right at home. PCLS T H E S K I N N Y F O R LO CA L WO M EN

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Arrow Grace Johnson Parents: Jeff and Lainey Johnson Photo by Declaring His Glory Photography

Remi Lynn Hull Parents: Nick and Autumn Hull Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

H O M ETOWN W e lco m i ng Par ke r Co u nty ’ s

NEWEST RESIDENTS Photos by Declaring His Glory Photography, Janzen Jackson Photography, and Lindsey Sullivan Photography

Hemingway Martin Parents: Lance and Janalee Martin Photo by Lindsey Su llivan Photography

Harper Ruth Horner Parents: Bob and Laura Horner Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

Audrey Mara Parents: Nathan and Stefanie Mara Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

Beck Dutton Parents: Sean and Meagan Dutton Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

Jolee Craig Parents: Clint Craig and Kay-Lee Jo Pearson Photo by Janzen Jackson Photography

Parker Birdwell Parents: Andrew and Michele Birdwell Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

Kelly Pullam Parents: Drew and Rusty Pullam Photo by Lindsey Sullivan Photography

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T H E S K I N N Y F O R LO CA L WO M EN

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FASHION THAT WEATHERS THE FLUX

BY HALSEY CLARK PHOTOS BY JANZEN JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY

I

f there is one thing we can predict about Texas weather, it’s its unpredictability. As the saying goes, “If you don’t like the weather in

Texas, wait five minutes!” However, with some assistance from our stylish friends in Parker County, we’ve equipped you with a winter fashion guide to help you weather the flux and survive a wayward Texas winter in style.

MAKE A STATEMENT

Look Provided by Truly Trendy Begin with a simple, yet uncommon graphic layering tee such as this “Do unto others” heather long sleeve top found at Truly Trendy Boutique.

Pair with a hooded poncho.

Ponchos are easy, comfortable and a great warm alternative to a boring jacket. If your day warms up, you can quickly shed this layer to adjust. A bold print, like a camo pattern, can create interest and pull together any outfit in an instant. Dress it up with a pair of black skinnies, heels, and a chunky necklace, or keep it casual with jeans and military boots.

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PARKER COUNTY LIF ESTY LE

ACT YOUR AGE

Look Provided by Truly Trendy Black skinny jeans are sure to be our favorite staple piece this winter because they can be worn with anything! Black skinnies can freely transition from day to night. Because of their neutral quality, they are a cool back drop for any outfit. Opt for a ripped knee when going for a more youthful, edgy look.

A long coat adds sophistication, maturity, and can be considered a power piece when worn to the office. A pattern turns any coat into a statement piece and elevates a simple look. Add a long necklace, as shown here, to pull together the outfit.

Truly Trendy 1713 Bethel Road Weatherford, TX 76086 www.facebook.com/ trulytrendyboutique

T H E S KI N N Y F O R LO CA L WO MEN

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BE YOUR OWN BOSS

Look Provided by Red Horse Boutique To achieve a polished look for a casual day at the office or for a mom on-the-go, a chunky sweater (think thick) and your favorite button down will do the trick.

Roll the sleeves to expose both layers or scrunch the arms to achieve that “J. Crew” look.

Tip: A cami worn over your button down and under your sweater will keep everything smooth all day long.

Booties: Mix any tailored look with a pair of fun booties, like these from Red Horse Boutique. A little fringe can add some whimsy and create a beautiful juxtaposition.

CALL IT A DAY

Look Provided by Red Horse Boutique An oversized vest or sweater is the perfect answer for a cozy weekend. To achieve this look without feeling bulky, avoid a thick under layer. Instead, combine with a lightweight wool sweater, long sleeve tee, slimming turtleneck, or a dress shirt/blouse.

When you don’t want to trade comfort for style-a great pair of utility leggings are a winter essential. Combined with oversized vests and sweaters, leggings can keep you warm while maintaining a slim profile.

Red Horse Boutique 223 N. Front Street Aledo, TX 76008 www.redhorseboutique.com 112

PARKER COUNTY LIF ESTY LE

T H E S K I N N Y F O R LO CA L WO M EN

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KISS AND TELL

Look Provided by Teskey’s Often thought of as a spring and summer essential, a vibrant kimono teamed with a muted blouse, long sleeve tee, or thermal can transition the piece and spice up your winter wardrobe. With the versatility of a kimono, your options are endless.

Wear it under another layer for colder days or over a jean shirt for a fun twist.

Pair the top with jeans for a more traditional look or opt for the edge by matching it with these leather seamed leggings found at Teskey’s.

Fringe is in! Accessorize with funky bags and winter colors that are not your normal black or brown.

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PARKER COUN TY LIF ESTY L E

PAINT THE TOWN

Look Provided by Teskey’s On those warmer days, take the

opportunity to have fun with color! A pink duster and skull tee are the perfect union for a girl’s day around town. Simply substitute a long sleeve tee or add a jean jacket for extra warmth.

Consider cropped “cut-off” skinnies to elongate your legs and add height. These will be a staple piece closer to March.

A leather studded cross-body bag is a great accessory for shopping trips when you need to keep your hands free and don’t want extra baggage weighing you down.

Chunky jewels found at Teskey’s complete any look.

Teskey’s 3001 W. I-20 Weatherford, TX 76087 www.teskeys.com T H E S KI N N Y F O R LO CA L WO MEN

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AIRMEDCARE NETWORK IS THE LARGEST AIR AMBULANCE MEMBERSHIP NETWORK IN THE BUSINESS OF SAVING LIVES,

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Members pay nothing if flown and membership covers entire household for less than $6 per month.

SIGN UP TODAY! 940.327.7767

Thank you for supporting and keeping our aircraft in your communities.

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116

PARKER COUNTY LIF ESTY LE

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817.599.7373 • 706 E. Eureka St. • Weatherford, TX www.weatherfordobgyn.com

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What’s

Par ke r Up, County?

Calendar of Events

JANUARY 2ND Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

3RD After School for Gamers’ Circle @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm

4TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

5TH After School for Teens: Ex Libris @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

6TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am East Parker County Chamber: Women’s Business Alliance Luncheon @ Flames Restaurant| 11:30 am-1 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

9TH After School for Teens: WPL Anime and Manga Club @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm

11TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am Teen Writers’ Group @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5:30 pm

118

12TH After School for Teens: WPL Tribe @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

13TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am TCA Eagles for Life: Celebrating Grace House

14TH Winter RUNderland @ Texas Health Fitness Center Willow Park| 8:30 am

16TH Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

17TH After School for Gamers’ Circle @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm

18TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

19TH After School for Teens: Ex Libris @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

20TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am Friday Night Sing @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7 pm

PARKER COUNTY LIF ESTY LE

23RD After School for Teens: WPL Anime and Manga Club @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

25TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

26TH After School for Teens: WPL Tribe @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

27TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

29TH Parker County Bridal Fair @ Doss Heritage Center| 1-5 pm

30TH After School for Gamers’ Circle @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Divorce Care/Divorce Care 4 Kids @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 6:30 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

2ND TCA Preview Event| 9am-6pm After School for Teens: Ex Libris @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm

3RD Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am East Parker County Chamber: Women’s Business Alliance Luncheon @ Flames Restaurant| 11:30 am-1 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

4TH Annual Chili Supper @ Aledo Community Center| 5-8 pm

6TH Grace House Volunteer Interest Meeting @ Grace House Ministries| 9:30 am After School for Teens: WPL Anime and Manga Club @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Divorce Care/Divorce Care 4 Kids @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 6:30 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

8TH

FEBRUARY

Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am Teen Writers’ Group @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5:30 pm

1ST

9TH

The Schoolhouse Open Enrollment Begins Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library|

10:30-11:15 am

After School for Teens: WPL Tribe @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5pm

Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

10TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am Weather Chamber of Commerce: Sweet on Business Luncheon| 11:30 am-1 pm

13TH

Center Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

24TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am East Parker County Library: Epic Library Talent Show| 7 pm

27TH

After School for Gamers’ Circle @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Divorce Care/Divorce Care 4 Kids @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 6:30 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

After School for Gamers’ Circle @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Divorce Care/Divorce Care 4 Kids @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 6:30 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

15TH

MARCH

Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

16TH After School for Teens: Ex Libris @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Weatherford Regional Medical Center: Healthy Woman Workshop: Go Red. Think Pink. @ Doss Heritage Center| 5-7:30 pm

17TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am Friday Night Sing @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7 pm

18TH

1ST Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

2ND After School for Teens: Ex Libris @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm

3RD Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am Willow Park Baptist Church Ironman Retreat @ Riverbend East Parker County Chamber: Women’s Business Alliance Luncheon @ Flames Restaurant| 11:30 am-1 pm

Clark Gardens Circus for a Cause

6TH

20TH

After School for Teens: WPL Anime and Manga Club @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Divorce Care/Divorce Care 4 Kids @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 6:30 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

Divorce Care/Divorce Care 4 Kids @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 6:30 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

21ST After School for Teens: WPL Anime and Manga Club @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm

22ND Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

23RD After School for Teens: WPL Tribe @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5pm Gracefully Strong: A Night to Inspire with Mayor Betsy Price @ the Cendera

8TH

10TH

22ND

Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

11TH Willow Park Baptist Church Woman to Woman Mentoring 8th Orientation Meeting| 10 am

12TH Kelly Miller Circus @ Aledo| 5 & 7 pm

13TH Spring Break @ Weatherford Public Library Artstravaganza for 1st-3rd Graders| 11 am-12 pm Artstravaganza for 4th-6th Graders| 2-3 pm Divorce Care/Divorce Care 4 Kids @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 6:30 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

Weatherford Regional Medical Center’s Healthy Woman Workshop: The ABC’s of Skin Cancer After School for Teens: Ex Libris @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

24TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

25TH Weatherford Christian School’s 2017 Lions’ Gala @ Greg Welch Gymnasium

14TH

27TH

Spring Break @ Weatherford Public Library Wacky Science for 1st-3rd Graders| 11 am-12 pm Wacky Science for 4th-6th Graders| 2-3 pm

After School for Teens: WPL Anime and Manga Club @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Divorce Care/Divorce Care 4 Kids @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 6:30 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

15TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am Spring Break @ Weatherford Public Library: Best of the Box Office| 2-4:30 pm

16TH Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

17TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am Friday Night Sing @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7 pm

Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am Teen Writers’ Group @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5:30 pm

18TH

9TH

20TH

After School for Teens: WPL Tribe @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

23RD

Art in Action @ Weatherford’s Farmer’s Market| 11 am-4 pm

After School for Gamers’ Circle @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5 pm Divorce Care/Divorce Care 4 Kids @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 6:30 pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

29TH Storytime @ Weatherford Public Library| 10:30-11:15 am

30TH TCA Easter Musical Sanctified Hope’s 2nd Annual Gala @ Doss Heritage Center After School for Teens: WPL Tribe @ Weatherford Public Library| 4-5pm Celebrate Recovery @ Willow Park Baptist Church| 7-9 pm

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more upcoming events!

Parker County LifeStyle Magazine

pclifestyle

Index of Advertisers Addington & Associates............................................................... 29

Lone Star Medical Group................................................................5

AirMedCare Network.....................................................................116

Mike’s Westside Rental.................................................................49

AKO Photography...........................................................................48

Miracle League................................................................................. 92

Associated Well Services............................................................. 73

Myser Orthodontics.......................................................................96

Bells Stone……………………................................................................. 93

Optimum Healthcare..................................................................... 25

Beyond Faith Home Care........................................................... 109

Painting with a Twist.................................................................... 109

Brock Cottage Flowers & Gifts................................................ 104

Parker County LifeStyle.............................................................. 104

Bronze Star Shooting…….............................................................. 72

PlainsCapital Bank..........................................................................69

Brooke Ladouceur, Realtor.......................................................... 73

Prather Insurance Agency............................................................ 61

Carly Klassen, DDS......................................................................... 83

Railhead Realty................................................................................ 83

Clark Gardens......................................................................................2

Red Horse Boutique..................................................................... 108

College Park Rehabilitation

RedFin Pools........................................................................................7

and Care Center............................................................................... 25

Roger Williams.................................................................................117

Declaring His Glory Photography.............................................116

Solis Mammography.................................................................... 105

Diamond H3 Ranch...……............................................................. 108

Stanton & Company....................................................................... 97

Edward Jones - Mike Smith.........................................................117

Teskeys.................................................................................................. 9

Ernie’s Tire & Automotive.............................Inside Back Cover

Texas Health Hospital Willow Park............................................ 41

Excel ER..............................................................Inside Front Cover

The Bryants Co................................................................................ 79

Facial Cosmetic and Surgical Center..................................16-17

The Schoolhouse.................................................................................1

Farm Bureau................................................................................... 108

Toro Sports Performance.............................................................69

First National Bank....................................................... Back Cover

Trinity Christian Academy...........................................................96

Fit USA.............................................................................................. 108

Truly Trendy......................................................................................117

G&S Insurance Solutions.............................................................. 79

Vintage Car Museum & Event Center......................................116

Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Home............................................. 78

Watkins Floor Care....................................................................... 105

Goodwin Dental............................................................................... 53

Weatherford Christian School................................................... 40

Grace House Ministries.................................................................. 93

Weatherford OB/GYN Associates............................................117

Green Acres Rental......................................................................... 78

Weatherford Regional Medical Center.............................5, 105

Holiday Cleaners............................................................................ 109

White’s Funeral Home................................................................... 97

Hilltop Park Rehabilitation

Whitney Chilton Photography................................................. 104

and Care Center............................................................................... 25

Williams Trew.......................................................................................3

Janzen Jackson Photography............................................. 36-37

Willow Park Baptist Church........................................................ 28

Jennz Day Spa..................................................................................116

Willow Park Rehabilitation and Care Center....................... .25

Landi Whitefield Photography................................................... 72

Wolfpack Services........................................................................ 109

Lindsey Sullivan Photography.................................................... 24

Please thank these advertisers for making this publication possible!

Over 25 years in business

The name you can trust to keep you rolling.

1811 Fort Worth Hwy | Weatherford, TX 76086

817.550.6790

f Ernie’s Tire and Automotive, LLC Erniestiresandauto.com