Kersh Real Estate Shines On the National Stage
In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, some companies manage to stand out by showcasing their expertise and commitment to excellence. Kersh Real Estate is one such firm that has recently taken the spotlight on the national stage through its participation in the popular television show, "American Dream: Selling Texas." This show, which captures the essence of the Lone Star State's real estate market, has become a platform for industry leaders like Kersh Real Estate to display their prowess and share valuable insights.
Kersh Real Estate, based in the heart of Texas, has earned a stellar reputation for its dedication to providing top-notch real estate services. The firm's commitment to client satisfaction, combined with a deep understanding of the Texas market, has contributed to its success and recognition within the industry.
"American Dream: Selling Texas" offers a unique platform for real estate professionals to showcase their skills, highlight remarkable properties, and share their experiences in navigating the dynamic Texas real estate market. Kersh Real Estate's involvement in the show reflects not only its achievements but also its willingness to embrace innovative ways of reaching a broader audience.
valuable insights into the intricacies of the Texas real estate market.
One of the show's highlights is the spotlight on Kersh Real Estate's client success stories. Viewers get a glimpse into how the firm has helped clients achieve their real estate dreams, whether it's finding the perfect home, securing a lucrative investment, or navigating a seamless property transaction. These narratives not only highlight the firm's professionalism but also showcase its dedication to client satisfaction.
The episodes featuring Kersh Real Estate on "American Dream: Selling Texas" delve into the firm's expertise in various aspects of the real estate industry. From residential properties to commercial ventures, the show captures the team's ability to navigate diverse transactions, offering
"American Dream: Selling Texas" serves as an excellent platform for Kersh Real Estate to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the Texas real estate market. From the bustling urban areas to the serene countryside, the firm's participation in the show offers viewers a comprehensive understanding of the diverse landscapes and trends shaping the state's real estate industry.
Kersh Real Estate's appearance on "American Dream: Selling Texas" is a testament to its position as a leader in the Texas real estate market. By leveraging the national exposure provided by the show, the firm has successfully showcased its expertise, commitment to clients, and ability to navigate the complexities of the dynamic real estate landscape. As viewers tune in to learn about the latest trends and success stories, Kersh Real Estate stands out as a prime example of excellence in the Texas real estate industry.
38 Our Hometowns | Volume 5 Issue 2
About the author:
Over the course of her professional career as a financial advisor, Melanie J. Housden, AAMS®, has been on a continual journey to provide better opportunities with lower cost to clients. The ability to finally do business as Melanie J Financial, LLC, has been a long-time dream.
Melanie learned the secret to success working alongside her grandfather at his hardware store in McLean, a small town in the Texas Panhandle where she grew up.
“My success in developing lifelong relationships with my clients comes from the skills my grandfather taught me,” she said.
Melanie holds a business degree from Wayland Baptist University, her Series 7, 63, 66, Insurance License and the AAMS® – Accredited Asset Management Specialist designation and has two decades of experience in the financial industry.
“Learning what is important to my clients enables me to devise a plan that will help them pursue financial freedom through all aspects of their lives and will allow their legacy to continue on in their families lives,” Melanie says. “I keep their goals and needs at the forefront of every decision. My clients are successful people – from all walks of life. But they worry that they might not be making the very best decisions when it comes to living a rich and full life. If I can take the financial worries away from my clients, then I am successful. My clients are like a part of my family and I treasure each and every one of them. Truly, we are stronger together.”
Melanie currently resides in Hamilton with her husband Rick. They have two daughters: Alexandria (and husband Reagan), and Abbie. Outside of work, Melanie loves spending time with her family including their three dogs Dixie, Lily, and Dude. She loves to travel and shop.
An advocate for her community, Melanie is currently a Board of Director for the Hamilton Economic Development Corporation.
Melanie J. Housden, AAMS®
Wealth Management Advisor, RJFS
110 North Bell Hamilton,TX 76531
(254) 386-4500
1. U.S. economy: "Rotisserie" cycles
The most talked about recession in history has yet to materialize. Many economists have stopped waiting for the delivery and have revised the menu. We still believe that a recession will start in 2Q, but it will likely be the mildest ever. Indeed, it may be so mild that markets barely notice it. We expect the recession to be mild because there are no excesses in the economy, and like a rotisserie oven, many parts of the economy have been rotating from hot to cold independently over the last few years. Even with a mild recession, a recovery by year end should help U.S. GDP warm to a ~1% growth rate for the entire year.
2. Monetary policy: Chairman Powell, the top chef
The Federal Reserve (Fed) is led by Jerome Powell. Under pressure to cool inflation, he served up a steady course of interest rate hikes over the last 18 months and whipped inflation from 9% to 3.1% currently. Since that restrictive diet is done, the Fed will turn its attention to fattening the economy as growth concerns mount (i.e., a modest rise in unemployment and a potential recession). Markets are salivating over the possibility of as many as six interest rate cuts in 2024, but we believe that is overly optimistic; we favor three or four. More rate cuts than that would likely mean the economy is struggling more than we anticipate.
3. Fixed income: A makeover "rescue"
Like the guests on Bar Rescue, fixed income investors for the last few years may have felt like they were in bad shape, just like the shabby drinking establishments on the show. In both cases, the underlying business and fundamentals are in place and a makeover is all that’s needed. That makeover occurred in the bond market as the sharp reset to higher interest rates gave long-term investors an attractive entry point.
4. U.S. equities: The critical eye of Gordon Ramsay
In his show Hell’s Kitchen, Gordon Ramsay is often hyper critical of the contestants. Just as he has a discerning eye for cooking, investors will need to be more selective in 2024 with their sector, region, style, and market capitalization choices. That’s because a lot of the good news has already been priced into the market, including expectations for a soft landing, Fed rate cuts and easing inflation. Given our expectation for a mild recession, investors should turn a skeptical eye to a consensus earnings estimate of $245 (+12% EPS growth). We think that is likely too frothy. Our expectation is that earnings growth will be only 2% to $225 for 2024. History (i.e., election years, Fed easing cycle, etc.) suggests our less spicy expectations for the S&P 500 –to 4,850 by year end 2024 – make more sense.
Please note that changes in tax laws or regulations may occur at any time and could substantially impact your situation. While familiar with the tax provisions of the issues presented herein, Raymond James financial advisors are not qualified to render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. Material created by Raymond James for use by its advisors. Sources:https://www.cnbc.com/2022/08/19/ roth-iras-are-a-slam-dunk-for-most-young-investors-expert-says.html Investing involves risk and investors may incur a profit or a loss. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Diversification does not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Your financial advisor can answer any questions you may have about the features and benefits of IRAs and help determine which type may be appropriate for addressing your retirement needs. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA / SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.. Melanie J. Financial , LLC is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.
44 Our Hometowns | Volume 5 Issue 2
48 Our Hometowns | Volume 5 Issue 2
4/6/2024
50 Our Hometowns | Volume 5 Issue 2
- 4/7/2024
The students’ voices are growing louder with each passing second as they arrive backstage to prepare for their public performance. A flurry of makeup brushes and sponges are being tossed around as teen after teen sits to have their character’s makeup applied. The backstage crew is quickly sweeping the floors of all trash and debris; meanwhile, the student technicians are double checking light and sound boards before the audience enters for an evening of entertainment. 3 months of preparation – auditions, show designs made by students, memorizing lines & blocking, costume fittings, technical rehearsals and practice runs – has led to this moment. The show is about to start!
Issabella Cerecerez, one of GHS’ student stage managers, stated: “Show day is a BIG day! I know all the hard work is about to pay off. This day is full of excitement and nervousness; joy and stress. My job is to make sure everything goes smoothly behind the scenes. My day consists of checking props & costumes, as well as coordinating with my assistant managers and castmates. When the grand curtains are opening, everything is go, go, go! At the end though? When the lights come up, and we take our final bow…and we hear the applause and take the pictures…when we see our proud director’s face…I know that every minute of our hard work has paid off.”
The GHS Theatre Department became home for its director, Amanda Cummings, in the fall of 2019. Mrs. Cummings arrived in Gatesville after working with Life Skills students at Whitney Elementary School for ten years. Former coworker Kristina Matthaei has not only worked with Mrs. Cummings in education, but also saw her involvement at Lake Whitney
Arts as the lead Childrens’ Theatre Director: “While Amanda had the experience and love for working in special education, her true fire and passion is theatre. She has an uncanny ability to quote, analyze, and remember cinema of all types. Leading young actors in their performances drives Amanda and brings her dedication, determination, and creativity to whole new levels.”
While changing from an elementary mindset to a junior high/ high school one was challenging, Mrs. Cummings was more than willing to try. “The one universal truth that applies to all students is their need for a safe space in which to thrive. When the students have faith in you as their leader, they are more willing to follow you on the path to success.”
These values were instilled in Mrs. Cummings as the young child of a pair of educators. “My dad always explained that theatre was my sport; the stage, my court & field. He was a huge supporter of my love for the fine arts. As a coach of football, basketball, and baseball, he taught me the value of resilience, commitment, and positivity. My mom, a theatre/art teacher herself, raised me with an artist’s vision of finding the beauty in the details. My family is full of artists: quilters, painters, musicians, and more. Finding my way to the stage and creating new worlds for the entertainment of others just felt right.”
For the average GHS Theatre student, there is always some new show to produce. The GHS Theatre department puts on two shows a year; one in the Fall semester and one in the spring. This year’s Fall Show, Radium Girls, pushed the students to not only study historical accounts of the US Radium Corporation scandal, but to also push themselves to step outside of their
comfort zone by delving into a more dramatic piece.
“Traditionally, we try to perform more lighthearted, comedic shows during the fall; Southern comedies and Christmas shows always draw in our biggest crowds,” said Mrs. Cummings. “However, our students were asking for a dramatic piece this year, and this title came up over and over in conversation.”
Dana Myers, a theatre student since her 7th grade year and one of the lead fall actors, was excited to take on a challenging role: “I loved doing Radium Girls! It’s my favorite show out of all of the ones we have done. I loved that it’s based on a real historical event, and I loved having the honor of playing Grace Fryer. Her personality was fun to play with, and the people in the show were fun to work with. It was a great ride, beginning to end, and I’m so happy to have been a part of it.”
One of the biggest rules for the theatre group is to be kind. Torri Hobbs, assistant stage manager of the current One Act Play, said, “I originally joined theatre to spend more time with my best friend; but, over time, I learned that the theatre group is one big loving family.” Students are encouraged to practice empathy in all activities. “By practicing empathetic skills –putting oneself in another person’s shoes – the students learn to step outside of their own bubble and treat others with respect,” said Mrs. Cummings. “I have several different types of students participating in both my classes and in my rehearsals; being kind and respectful of all people teaches them skills they will use for the rest of their lives.”
Once the fall production ended in November, the theatre students prepared for One Act Play auditions with The Glass Menagerie the following month. “With every competition, you want reliable and dedicated teammates,” Cerecerez stated. “Our fall show gives us the opportunity to prepare ourselves for the challenges we will face during the One Act Play competition in March. We have 7 minutes to set up our stage, 40 minutes to perform, and 7 minutes to take our set down. There is no room for error, and we have to have a very thick skin to withstand communication with each other, our director, our contest manager, our judges, and our fellow schools in competition with us.”
Dr. Pollard, superintendent of GISD, sees the dedication this group puts forth. "Our theater students and staff have been putting in long hours in preparation for this season's One Act Play competition. Last year, our students' 4th place alternate finish resulted in the first plaque GISD had received in 11 years. I think that taste of success really pushed our students and staff to strive for an even better finish this year. I am really proud of their hard work, and I hope it results in them advancing to the next level of competition."
The high praise is not lost on this team. “We are appreciative of all of the support; we have had everyone rallying around us as we prepare for our upcoming competition. It is a really great feeling to see the whole school and community behind us,” said Mrs. Cummings. “The One Act Play competition has 5 levels: District, Bi-District, Area, Regional, and State. State level shows are mind-blowing to watch; the level of artistry is quite a sight to behold. The work to get to the State level isn’t easy; students have to focus quickly and put forth their best effort in rehearsals, clinics, and competition almost every day, and all while learning the ins and outs of varying performance spaces. In the end, all I can ask for from my team is for them to leave it all onstage. If they do their very best and enjoy the ride, hopefully they will be able to move forward to the next level.”
No matter what happens at the District 23-4A UIL One Act Play Competition on 3/2/24 in China Spring, TX, the students know that they will have the support of their director when the dust settles. “Mrs. Cummings is the embodiment of a "servant leader" in that she gives all she has to the students,” shares Dr. Klingler, GHS Co-Choir Director. “She tempers this nicely with high expectations and provides the support necessary for all students involved to achieve their best performance. Students that participate in theatrical arts on our campuses regularly demonstrate confidence, initiative, and strong leadership qualities in addition to being well spoken and respectful in their interactions with peers and teachers. Our student and professional community is notably better for her presence.”
In recent years, the importance of providing effective English as a Second Language (ESL) programs has become increasingly recognized, particularly in diverse communities. Hamilton Independent School District (ISD) has recognized this and has committed to ESL education with an approach that emphasizes academic success, personal excellence, and responsible citizenship. In this interview with Misti Polster, the coordinator of the Emergent Bilingual program at Hamilton ISD, we delve into the core philosophy, curriculum, unique teaching methods, assessment strategies, and the afterschool program that plays a crucial role in shaping the educational journey of ESL students.
The Core Philosophy:
The ESL program is deeply rooted in the district's vision and mission statement for Hamilton ISD. Hamilton ISD’s Mission statement includes the vision, "Learn Today - Lead Tomorrow." This encapsulates the commitment to providing all students with an individualized education that inspires academic success, personal excellence, and responsible citizenship. The Emergent Bilingual program aligns with this vision by setting the goal of having all elementary teachers ESL-certified by 2026. This certification aims to enhance their ability to instruct students at the highest academic level while supporting their language development.
Misti explains “Our secondary campuses have ESL-certified teachers in the English language Arts Department, but we ask our other academic subjects to train in Content-Based Language Instruction to utilize strategies that help our Emergent Bilingual students learn content at a higher level with a focus on Academic Vocabulary. We have spent professional development hours focusing on improving students’ listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills while they are learning in content areas.”
Curriculum Approach:
Teachers use instructional accommodations which we analyze at the beginning, middle, and end of the year to aid in students learning in the classrooms. The elementary children also receive instruction in SummitK12, a computer program that develops a personalized learning plan for each student to improve their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. The ESL Program is implementing more secondary students into the program, but the greatest challenge is determining what intervention method best
serves the student and if there needs to be more prioritization given to reading and math.
Unique Teaching Methods:
The ESL programs at Hamilton ISD place a strong emphasis on writing and speaking activities. Teachers utilize a Chat Mat as a guide to organize speaking using sentence frames, fostering effective communication skills. The district has invested in professional development, hosting courses, and collaborating with experts like Faith Foster from Region 12. Teachers also undergo the TELPAS test online to understand the expectations for ESL students, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning.
Assessment Strategies:
Assessing ESL student progress is a comprehensive process at Hamilton ISD. Assessment allows the teachers and parents to see where students need extra help. SummitK12 provides beginning, middle, and end-of-year assessments, while the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS) test gauges proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Misti points out that the test is extremely difficult for any student let alone emergent bilinguals.
“About 4% of kids were able to reclassify in the entire state so it is a state-wide problem to receive the ADVANCED HIGH score in all four domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This year will be a composite score (average) of the four areas so we hope the state and our district will be able to meet successful scores. We also have many local assessments we use throughout the year as well as interim STAAR assessments to determine how we can meet the needs of all students.”
Addressing Social and Emotional Needs:
Hamilton ISD acknowledges the social and emotional needs of ESL students by fostering a supportive environment. Hamilton ISD is very fortunate to have an Elementary secretary, bilingual aides, and teachers with backgrounds in Spanish. The ESL program depends on these individuals to help with a student who is having difficulty. Even though there are no bilingual services at Hamilton ISD, teachers work to assist our students and reach out to these staff members if they are not able to translate. A few of the bilingual staff have given their numbers out to some ESL families and help them even after school hours. Hamilton Junior High participates in
the program Capturing Kids Hearts and has many systems in place to help all the students feel safe and supported.
Family Literacy Program:
This past fall the district initiated the Latino Family Literacy Project in collaboration with the Brain Builders afterschool program. This program not only complements the regular curriculum but also creates an opportunity for family engagement, promoting literacy and community building.ESL Aide and Hamilton native, Nancy Najera, and Misti started the program.
Misti raved about the program. “Together we read over 12 bilingual books, and parents participated in language activities while students were able to create crafts and AR test on several of the books.” AR (Renaissance Place) is a program Hamilton ISD uses to test reading literacy in grades 1st - 8th. “Teachers in grades Prek-5 volunteered to help with the students' abilities while our special programs teachers helped set up, serve, and clean up our snacks for each night. It was truly a group effort of support by our entire elementary school and the relationships we formed with our parents during this time far exceeded our expectations. Our parents even hosted a potluck dinner for the school board and administration on our last night together. We met a total of 7 times over the fall semester then honored our parents at our annual Multicultural Christmas Party in December where the students performed and fellowshipped with cookies and cocoa.”
Parents were invited to attend Family Literacy nights through monthly newsletters as well as the Hispanic Heritage Night in September where student's work was showcased. She also uses the “Talking Points” app which translates any messages into their home language. When Misti receives messages from parents, it is translated into English. Hamilton ISD has also become more conscientious about including messages, announcements about closures or holidays in English and Spanish. Misti points out that the Talking Point app is a huge help because it will translate into Chinese. “My Chinese speaking skills are beyond low so this is a huge help.”
Challenges and Rewards:
“When we have a new student with very little skills in English, it is hard for their homeroom teacher,” Misti states. Texas doesn’t have a standard newcomer program that all schools follow. Misti has worked with Region 12 and with different teachers from different districts to develop a program. Despite administrative tasks, Misti Polster finds immense reward in building family relationships, witnessing student growth, and preparing students for success in their desired fields.
“I have loved the family relationships that have grown this year with my parents. All of my students feel like my own children and we talk about behavior and academic expectations being similar to what I would expect from my own children. I am super excited as my students graduate high school and college. Forty percent of Texans are Hispanic so we talk about how they must work hard to
become the next generation of doctors, lawyers, teachers, nurses, etc. We discuss how important it is that they keep practicing their home language with their parents so they can be bilingual for their future jobs. I always say, If I were given the opportunity to hire a monolingual or bilingual employee, it’s an easy choice as to who I would pick. I love watching them grow in their confidence in both English and academics. ~ Misti Polster
The ESL program's greatest rewards lie in seeing students grow in confidence and fluency, both in English and their native languages.
Advice to Parents:
Misti Polster encourages parents to read with their children in both languages at least three times a week, emphasizing the impact of vocabulary exposure on future success.
Upcoming Events:
Hamilton ISD plans to launch the Family Latino Literacy Project for junior high and high school families after Spring Break. The students and parents will be reading a novel that can foster conversations about future education after high school as well as ways to better prepare for the future. The older Emergent bilingual students and their friends teamed up in a Thrivent Live Generously project where the students walked the Pecan Creek Trail and Kiwanis Field Park to clean up debris left behind after storms and fall sports. This counted toward service hours that the students needed to earn.
Additionally, community engagement initiatives, such as field trips to local businesses, continue to be an integral part of the ESL program that students look forward to. Each year the students make a list of local businesses they would like to visit, so any businesses in Hamilton would like to be a part of it, please contact Misti Polster at mpolster@hamiltonisd.org or Nancy Najera at nnajera@hamiltonisd.org.
ESL Students:
Evaluating the effectiveness of a program can be gauged by seeking feedback from students. Dylan, a student, expressed his perspective by stating, “I think the Family Latino Literacy nights were fun because we got to go outside if it didn’t rain and play and do arts and crafts. My mom started talking a little more English now and she studied.”
Another student, Angel, expressed her praise for the program “I thought it was really fun and the food was good. The books were really enjoyable.”
Hamilton ISD's comprehensive ESL program reflects a commitment to providing a high-quality education that goes beyond language acquisition. By incorporating innovative teaching methods, robust assessment strategies, and community engagement initiatives, the district is shaping the future success of its ESL students. Misti Polster and the dedicated team at Hamilton ISD exemplify the transformative power of education in nurturing bilingual, confident, and academically successful individuals.
So what makes a small town community’s heart truly beat? With a population under 2000 and in the middle of the crossroads of Texas, Hico’s heart is beating rapidly from the flurry of activity among its 600 students at Hico ISD.
In the realm of education, the significance of student involvement in school activities goes beyond the classroom walls. Students who actively participate in extracurricular pursuits not only enrich their academic experience but also develop crucial life skills, forge lasting friendships, and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of school culture. This expectation and the ultimate reality of a Hico Tiger encourages student engagement in various school activities, shedding light on the profound impact it has on personal development, academic achievement, and the cultivation of well-rounded individuals poised for success.
It may not seem like there is an extensive list of opportunities for elementary students to branch out and try new things, when they themselves are just getting the hang of being a kid, yet at Hico Elementary, many students find their way to something that keeps them involved, while making new friends, becoming closer with their Lord, and challenging their minds and patience. Take Clay Langley, 5th grader at Hico Elementary, for example. Clay is no stranger to a suit and tie at the young age of ten. He has stood in front of grown men and women all over the state of Texas detailing the process of building his new and very innovative Ag Mechanics projects. As a child raised in the metal work industry, Clay understands the importance of hard work and attention to detail, but that’s not why Clay loves to build his new projects each year. Clay enjoys these projects because he loves to go through the steps in the project. He loves to watch it grow from an idea to the final piece. As far as competition, he knows that what he learns now will just keep getting better and he will become more advanced as he gets older.
Clay’s activities don’t end there. He has spent his elementary years playing basketball, football, being a member of the Hico Elementary Science Club, participating in multiple UIL events, and has shown pigs. And let’s not forget that not a single spirit-day goes by that Clay does not find a way to bring a smile to the faces of his classmates and his teachers by going all out with his creativity. Clay is a wonderful student in the classroom, but beyond that, his extracurricular activities have provided him with the opportunity to explore his interests beyond the
academic curriculum. But with several kids in his class not involved in anything outside of school, Clay answers the question as to why he likes to be involved. “I like to be involved because I want to be as cool as my big sisters. They have always built the coolest stuff in Ag Mechanics and won shows with their animals. My sister Cassidy is more interactive at college and not as shy to get started. She received lots of scholarships from being involved in school.” He is also looking forward to getting older when there are even more things to try. He’s especially looking forward to more sport options like cross country and track. He really wants to try tennis too.
The Power of Extracurricular Engagement
Being involved at an early age comes with its own set of challenges. Beyond the scheduling conflicts and juggling school work, the benefits far outweigh those obstacles. Students are exposed to diverse activities enabling them to discover hidden talents and passions, then fostering a sense of self-discovery.
There’s no doubt that Shyli Roberts, another 5th grade Hico Tiger, knows she is a social butterfly. She sees every person she meets as an opportunity to make a new friend. When asked about what she gains from being involved in so many activities, she says, “It is a lot sometimes. Sometimes I struggle. The good thing is that it keeps me active and healthy. I don’t like to sit at home, it gets boring. I like to be active.” Interacting with peers in non-academic settings fosters the development of social skills, emotional intelligence, and empathy. While the country continues to focus on the importance of mental health, it seems that so much can be learned from early involvement in extracurricular activities inside and outside of the school setting. Friendships forged in extracurricular activities often transcend traditional cliques, therefore creating a more inclusive and supportive school community. Shyli has even had the opportunity to bring her love of the Lord to school by working with her fellow students to spread the message. “We worked together to write verses on suckers on National Prayer Day and gave them to all of the classes. It was really fun. Now we are trying to create a study group and bring in people to spread the message to those that don’t have that in their life. It is really fun. We read chapters together and we get to pick what we want to read. We want to include everyone.”
As expected, students gain entirely new skills with each activity they become involved in. These transferable skills can be taken with them as they grow and can continue to be developed each year. Leadership and teamwork skills are honed through participation in their groups, activities, clubs, and sports. Students like Clay and Shyli have to learn very early the essential skills of time management, communication, and problem solving. These skills are then enhanced as they balance their academic commitments with extracurricular pursuits. When asked how he does it all, Clay says, “Before I get to do any projects, my family and I make a plan. We get all of the ideas together to make sure we get the time and dates for a few months ahead planned. I always ask for my school work and get it done while I am away at shows so that is done before I get back. Most of the time, I work on my projects on the weekends. I have to do all of my homework and chores during the week after school.”
Each year, when teachers at Hico ISD have been asked who are the highest performing students, it is always the ones that are also the most involved, miss the most school for activities, and seem to be stretched almost too thin. So it goes to question, what is the correlation between the two? Studies consistently show a positive correlation between extracurricular involvement and academic success. Shyli explains that when it comes to her school work, it comes first. “First when I get home I do my homework, then do my chores. On church days I make time to go to church. I make sure to go to deal with my pigs after my chores are done at home. Somehow we make time for all of it. I also have a small business and make bracelets with clay beads. I do that only on Thursdays to make orders for my customers. I also have travel basketball and Little Dribblers. It is definitely not easy, but it is really fun.” Clay goes beyond that and says, “My parents help me balance both. I have learned to never get behind on my projects and school work. School comes first and my projects and activities are a close second.” The structured nature of many activities can instill discipline and motivation, positively impacting a student’s approach to their studies. Students involved in leadership roles, even in independent activities where they’re the ultimate one in charge of their success, learn to take ownership of their actions and decisions, contributing to a culture of responsibility within the school. This sense of accountability extends beyonds school years, preparing students for challenges in higher education and the workforce.
Clay and Shyli have both expressed that they know they are a little different from all of the students in their class, but that is okay. Their extracurricular activities have provided platforms for them to be different, involved, and to find an avenue to express themselves. Clay knows that not everyone knows how to weld at age 10, and that’s to be expected, but when the County Show comes around, he gets to show off his talent, and spread that passion to other students of all ages. He hopes that it may spark someone else to get involved in something different that they never thought about joining.
When talking with Shyli, one of her passions is cheer and spreading school spirit. “At one point I thought it was all about winning school
spirit awards at pep rallies, but now I just do it for the fun of it to get everyone involved in school spirit. I like to share extra necklaces or tattoos to try to get others festive. I try to spread as much school spirit and joy as I can. It is hard to stay positive all the time, because some kids try to put you down and not be happy, but I have learned to do what I like and do my own thing.” Engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment continue to contribute to overall emotional well-being. Yet Shyli knows it’s not always that easy. She has spent many days facing disappointment when her team loses, when kids don’t want to dress up and show that Tiger Spirit, or even her own personal challenges, but she appreciates the supportive environment that comes from being in extracurricular activities as it helps her build resilience and coping mechanisms that she can take with her in the years ahead. One of her favorites is softball. “Softball gets me in my zone. I feel good when we work together as a team. I am also really excited about cheer next year and in Junior High. We will get to do harder things and keep building on what we are doing now.”
From an adult perspective, it is obvious that the skills developed through extracurricular involvement, including resilience and adaptability, prepare students for the uncertainties of adult life. We know that overcoming challenges in a controlled environment helps students develop a proactive mindset in the face of adversity. Extracurricular activities through the school provides an opportunity to watch these skills develop with the help and guidance of sponsors and adults along the way.
Student involvement in school activities is not merely an optional addition to the academic experience, but a crucial component of holistic education. The benefits extend far beyond the immediate gratification of participating in fun and engaging pursuits. Extracurricular engagement molds students into well-rounded individuals, equipping them with essential life skills, nurturing leadership qualities, and fostering a deep sense of community and responsibility.
Educational institutions play a pivotal role in encouraging and facilitating student involvement, recognizing that the impact of such engagement reverberates throughout a student's academic journey and beyond. As we celebrate the achievements of students involved in various school activities, we also acknowledge the transformative power of these experiences in shaping the leaders, innovators, and empathetic individuals of tomorrow, and at Hico ISD, we are doing just that.
About the author: Dixie Watson, Hico P-TECH Director
After starting at Hico ISD as the Secondary Principal for three years, the growth of P-TECH programming needs and the needs of assisting in the development and implementation of P-TECH became my next endeavor. I have spent the last few years planning and strategically aligning the needs of the local workforce with the academic programming needs of Hico ISD as the P-TECH Director. My husband, Adam Watson, is also entering his fifth year coaching and teaching at Hico ISD where our 5th and 6th grade sons attend. We are committed to seeing the program's benefits not only reach our children, but all of the future Tigers that come through Hico ISD.
Welcome back to Fostering Hope! In today’s issue, I am going to discuss what it means when someone “fosters to adopt” a child and the different ways one could go about doing so.
American Adoptions of Texas defines foster care adoption as, “a form of adoption that allows potential adoptive families to adopt children who are currently under the care of a state foster care agency.” (https://www.americanadoptionsoftexas.com/adopt/ foster-care-adoption-in-texas) What does this mean in layman’s terms? In short, foster care adoption is a way for licensed foster families to adopt children who are in the foster care system when the child's biological parents either relinquished their parental rights or were unsuccessful in regaining custody.
Foster Adoption is not the only avenue with which to adopt a child. There are also international adoptions, kinship adoptions, domestic infant adoptions, adult adoptions, and more. It is important to do your research and weigh the advantages versus disadvantages with your own priorities.
As a young family with a deep desire to have children, I found foster adoption the best option for my house. I was young and financially strained after fertility treatments, but had a home and heart full of love that I was dying to share with children. Foster adoption was the fastest and most feasible way for me to adopt a child of my own.
Anytime I talk to people about fostering, they almost always say, “I could never do that. I don’t think I could handle it if the child got taken away.” This is a legitimate concern and definite risk that any foster-to-adopt family takes. In my opinion, and this is my opinion only, it is all about mindset. The approach I always took was, “This child is probably confused and terrified. He needs a safe place and lots of love right now, so I am going to give him all I have for as long as I can.”
They don’t all come to stay. You will love hard; you will sacrifice; you will give, give, give, and the child may still be reunited with biological family. When that happens, you will ache, you will feel sadness, and you may even fear for the child. You have to remind yourself that the emotional pain you are experiencing is nothing compared to the pain the child endured when his or her world was flipped upside down. If a biological parent is able to correct whatever resulted in the child’s removal and provide a safe home where basic needs are met, then the best place for that child is with the biological parent.
I will say, for couples only interested in adopting an infant, the risk of “loving and losing” is higher on the foster adoption pathway. Infants are often reunited with biological parents. If the biological parent does not regain custody, then typically, biological families are given the option to assume guardianship before the infant is placed with an adoptive family. Two out of five of my adopted kids came to me as newborns. There were several newborns that came and left along the way. It is more difficult to find adoptive families for older children, minority children, children with significant medical needs, and sibling groups, thus there are lots of children in those categories who are waiting for someone to say, “I’ll be your forever family.” In order to connect families with “harder-to-adopt” children, the state of Texas offers benefits. These are known as Special Needs Adoptions.
To qualify as a special needs adoption, the child(ren) must fall into one of the following categories at the time of adoption:
a) Caucasian child over the age of 6
b) Minority child over the age of 2
c) A sibling group
d) A single child being adopted to join their sibling group
e) A child with a physical, intellectual, or emotional disability or condition
I’ll elaborate in depth below, but qualifying children can receive post-adoption benefits that usually include:
a) Medicaid health care coverage
b) Reimbursement of legal/attorney fees up to $1200 per child
c) Monthly Adoption subsidy to assist with the care of the child
d) Free college tuition at a state-funded college or university
Medicaid Health Care Coverage
Regardless of your income, and regardless of whether or not you choose to cover the child through your personal Health Care Plan, the state provides Medicaid coverage. It is your choice whether or not to use it. Sometimes it is a pain to find providers who will accept it, especially Specialists, but it is well worth the headache considering how much money it can save you. It is particularly helpful for visits that are not typically well-covered such as eye exams, dental visits, and counseling. If you do not plan to use this as your primary insurance coverage, my advice is
to keep it active just in case you ever need it. There may be medical or psychological needs that do not manifest until the child is older.
Reimbursement Of Legal/Attorney Fees Up To $1200 Per Child
Adoption is a legal process and unfortunately, there can be steep fees attached to it. The cost of a foster adoption will vary case by case. In straightforward cases, there are attorneys that will represent you and only charge the amount that the state will reimburse, meaning you will incur no cost. One of my adoptions required more work, had several crazy circumstances that are not typical, and when all was said and done, cost me close to $20k. Again, not typical, but possible. Using the same attorney, I didn’t pay anything for the other 4 adoptions.
Monthly Adoption Subsidy To Assist With The Care Of The Child
Essentially, adoption subsidy is child support that comes from the state. These payments are directly deposited into your account each month until the child reaches the age of 18 and are intended to assist with whatever costs you incur to provide for the child. This could be childcare, extracurriculars, groceries, etc. In my experience, families are usually awarded the maximum amount per child. For a basic needs child, the amount is $400 per month. For higher needs children (usually medical), the amount is $545 per month. This is nontaxable income. My personal word of advice is that when you do your adoption, request that your subsidy continue until the child graduates High School, rather than their 18th birthday (assuming they will turn 18 before they graduate). Children become more expensive during High School years, like when they start driving. The last thing you want is for your income to drop as your expenses are increasing. I learned this the hard way. A couple of my kids turn(ed) 18 at the beginning of their senior year. Losing $400 a month is difficult to adjust to in and of itself, but this particular year with all of the added senior expenses makes it even more difficult. Plan accordingly.
Free Tuition At A State-Funded College Or University
This is my favorite! This is a state law that exempts or waives payment of tuition and fees at state supported colleges or univer-
sities for foster youth currently or formerly in the conservatorship of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) and for those adopted from DFPS. In the state of Texas, most foster-to-adopt children qualify for a tuition waiver that allows them to attend a public college or university tuition FREE! When your child is ready to start college level courses (even if they are High School dual-credit courses), you should reach out to your regional post-adoption liaison to request the waiver. The tuition waiver will also keep you from having to pay college application fees. For more information on tuition waivers, or to find your post-adoption liaison, check out the following links. Additionally, your adopted child should also qualify for the full Federal Pell Grant amount.
(https://www.dfps.texas.gov/Child_Protection/Youth_and_ Young_Adults/Education/state_college_tuition_waiver.asp)
https://www.dfps.texas.gov/Child_Protection/Adoption/adoption_support.asp#contacts
Many people will say, “I don’t care about any of that stuff; that’s not why I’m adopting a child.” You’re right, the benefits should not be your motivating factor in adopting a child. The benefits are, however, important to consider when you look at the big picture and plan for the unexpected. I didn’t need the benefits then, but I sure did later. I never planned to be a single mom raising 6 kids. Maybe you won’t ever need the monthly subsidy; take it anyway. Deposit it into an account for your child to use when they are older. You can use it to buy their first car or pay for their room and board during college. Use it to set your child up for success and pray that you will see generational cycles of abuse and neglect end with your child.
I have dedicated my life to sharing our story so that others might know that they are not alone. One thing you’ll learn about me is that I like to keep it real. I will share my deepest joys, but I won’t tell you it was all rainbows and unicorns along the journey. The foster care and adoption road involves some steep and treacherous climbs, but when you reach the summit, the views are priceless! I look forward to sharing tips, tricks, and lessons learned for those families walking, or those who are considering embarking, on this same journey! - Melanie
Do you have questions related to foster-care or pre/post adoption? Submit them to melanie@righteousroots.org and maybe they’ll make it into the next publication!
FThe past does not define you.
or this particular foster mother “no” is a foreign idea when it comes to the placement calls, she receives from social workers seeking refuge for a child, or children, in their care. In the case of one call in search of a home for two little blondehaired blue-eyed boys ages seven and ten, a pause sounded in the answer because the plan hadn’t been to say yes to another foster placement. The caller filled the silence with, “They are so well-mannered”, and by the day's end, of course, they arrived.
As the agency worker explained their case history, detailing those boys had been left sitting outside on a curb, seemingly abandoned by their mom; and then sat all day through interviews and paperwork at the agency, their new foster mother couldn’t help but notice that the boys held big smiles on their faces. She wondered how they were able to manage those beautiful smiles under the circumstances. The agency worker further explained that the boys had endured the loss of their brother to a questionable fire recently, unfortunately witnessing the entire ordeal. The duo had endured severe neglect and the stress of moving from state to state with removal into foster care each time. And yet, despite their heavy history, the boys stayed resilient, mastering their manners and amazing the adults around them with their determination to adjust to their ever-changing world. At just
seven and ten they had already learned to find the good in the little things, to celebrate the little victories. Where many might see a roadblock the brothers chose to see opportunity. They were already what many have lived a lifetime hoping to be.
During their placement, the boys kept a positive attitude, the determination to do their best, and a wide-eyed interest in learning both in and out of school. They signed up for any occasion to experience something new, whether it was just for fun, or had the
“My past has not defined me, destroyed me, deterred me, or defeated me; it has only strengthened me.”
-Steve Maraboli, Unapologetically You: Reflections on Life and the Human Experience
potential to test them. They stayed curious and ready for adventure. They thrived. They found a great outlet in playing almost every sport and excelling in academics as well. They lived each day to the fullest and took absolutely nothing for granted. Life through their eyes was about doing it all, not complaining, and enjoying every day. Their positivity came from experiencing great loss and having had nothing. However, rather than allowing those hurdles to become barriers, they gained motivation to make it over them and gained a second chance.
As the years passed their motivation and zest for life never changed. The oldest graduated high school with exemplary grades while maintaining a job, buying, and paying for his first truck, learning to do all of his own maintenance and mechanics while playing football, basketball, and baseball, and maintaining a spot on select teams. The eldest is now in college, experiencing the bond and support of a fraternity, recently purchased his second truck, pays for his travel, and vacations, and maintains high college scores. The younger brother is still in high school maintaining A’s, while working, and purchased his first vehicle before he could even legally drive alone. Following his older brother's footsteps, he is also learning to do his own auto maintenance while playing football and baseball and playing on select teams. His future also includes college and travel.
These two boys made their way from a lonely curb mourning the loss of their brother to a home that fostered their thirst for knowledge and adventure, and now lead full lives both with bright futures in view. With smiles on their faces, these boys stayed resilient and determined, mastering what came their way and refusing to let it hold them back. They haven’t let the past control or define them, they live and love to the fullest.
‘Never be defined by your past. It was a lesson, not a life sentence.’ – Unknown
Forward Focus
As we embrace the New Year, let us enter with a new and fresh perspective of faith knowing we are running a race that requires great perseverance; however, we must remember the victory has already been attained and won by Jesus Christ our Lord, who endured it all so that we may live. If we focus on Him, we are given a guaranteed win!
My all-time holiday has always been New Years. There's nothing greater than starting in cold weather with fireworks. Growing up in "small town" Texas, I always loved returning to school after Christmas break, mainly to get back into the groove of any sport, but in my younger years, I must say it was all about the mighty game of tetherball at recess. The mere entertainment of hitting a ball back and forth while it was attached to a pole brought great excitement and the fierce competition amongst most kiddos on the playground was endless. My favorite part was that if you were dissatisfied with the outcome or made a mistake, you could always yell out two powerful words that changed the trajectory of the game. “RE-DO" Then you'd be given another chance to win or start the entire game over.
Well, it’s a New Year and season and I’ve come with a great announcement: God is giving us a “RE-DO”! 2 Corinthians
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV
5:17 lets us know, "If any man be in Christ, he is a new creation. The old things have passed away and BEHOLD ( that means look ahead) ALL things have become new!" Funny how we can be in the same town, have the same job, and be living in the same house, yet be made NEW when we commit, or re-commit, our hearts and lives to Christ. The good thing about God is that His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23 ) and we don’t have to wait for a particular holiday or mistake to start over. The key is that we remain in Christ, which means we stay connected to Him at all times by focusing on Him and spending time in prayer and the Bible.
This year the Lord is calling His disciples to Him through a disciplined life of trust and obedience. Just as he called the disciples of old as they were busy mending their nets, He calls us today saying the same words in Matthew 4:18 “ Follow me and I will make you…”
Identify common pitfalls of distractions and mismanagement of time and give your attention to Jesus by leaving the past behind. As you embrace this New Year, I encourage you to shift focus and run your race with eyes on Jesus, knowing that great is your inherent reward. Give God more in 2024 and expect a big win!
About the author: Felicia Inman is a native of Gatesville Texas and graduate alumni of Texas Bible Institute and University of Texas at Arlington with a Masters Degree in Social Work. She has more than a decade of ministry experience in which she and her husband Raymond Inman have currently committed their lives to serving at Grace Assembly Christian Church in Gatesville, Texas under the leadership of her father Pastor Wray Nunn. Felicia enjoys creatively sharing the message of Christ in church, community, and corporate settings, which enables her to reach others with humor, warmth, transparency and powerful strength. She is a wife, mother, teacher, conference speaker, song-writer, role model and mentor.
62 Our Hometowns | Volume 5 Issue 2
Each of these events listed is subject to cancelation by their own organizer. Look for a few familiar faces from some of the events that have happened over the course of the past few months. Copyright of photos go to the photographers and everyone who submitted them respectively. If you feel so inclined send a few photos of your own to production.hometowns@gmail.com to be included
Belton
February 3-10 - Bell County Youth Fair 2024 at the Cadence Bank Center, 9 am-6 pm. The Bell County Youth Fair is a dedicated platform for promoting and advancing large-scale business sectors, including regional and national industrial enterprises. It showcases top-quality craft items, classic rides, and food and beverages.
February 14 - Sundance Head at Schoepf’s BBQ, 7-11 pm. Sundance Head has been singing for as long as he can remember. The son of singer Roy Head has been on the stage his entire life. Sundance is now making his mark on the music industry, determined to hang a gold record of his own on the wall of his Porter, Texas home. Placed 13th on American Idol in 2007. Universal Motown Artists in 2008. Sundance Head has put together a power trio which consists of Sundance Head on guitars and vocals, Dave Walters on bass, and Joe Busa on drums. The three together make up the sound of soul country and will deliver a live show like you have never heard before.
February 14 - Valentine’s Day at the Corks & Barrels Bar, 5-10 pm. Come enjoy Austin & Aubree's special Valentine's cocktails!
February 16-18 - Mother Earth News Fair at the Bell County Expo, 9 am-5 pm. Discover ways to live a self-sufficient lifestyle at the Fair. Learn DIY tips, reduce dependence on the grid, explore income opportunities, and harness nature's healing power. Expert instructors will provide knowledge and participants can take home herbal teas and body care products.
February 23-25 - Home and Garden Show at the Bell County Expo Center, 6-9 pm. Visit our Home and Garden show for amazing landscape displays and inspiration for your own home. With everything under one roof, including pools and spas, outdoor kitchens, and informative seminars, it's the perfect forum to showcase your company and connect with customers.
February 25 - Belton HS Choir 1st Annual Mattress Fundraiser at Belton High School, 10 am-5 pm. The Belton HS Choir Mattress Fundraiser is back! Do you deserve a better night’s sleep? Come to Belton HS on Saturday, February 25th from 10 am – 5 pm to try out over 25 different styles. You’ll save money. You’ll sleep better. You’ll support the Choir. Your back, knees, hips, and heart will thank you. This is ONE DAY ONLY. Please help us spread the word. Bring your family & friends while you have fun shopping for the nighttime comfort of your dreams.
February 25 - Puerto Rican Feast: An All-YouCan-Eat Brunch Fiesta at the 100x35 Latin Cuisine Restaurant, 10 am-4 pm. Unlimited brunch with over 10 options! Limited tickets. A taste of Puerto Rico awaits. First Seating: 10:00 AM, Second Seating: 12 PM, Third Seating: 2:00 PM. Each seating will last for 90 minutes of pure gastronomic bliss. General Admission: $40 per person.
February 26 - Hands on Balayage Class at 2421 N Main St, 10am-2pm. Get ready for a hands-on balayage class where you'll learn the latest techniques to create stunning hand-painted highlights! General admission is $249.
March 2 - Shelly Belly Comedy Show at The Beltonian Theatre, 6 pm. Michelle Rider, aka ShellyBelly, began her comedy career performing standup comedy on stages across the Southeast United States. She then gained attention in the comedy world after releasing comedy skits online as shellybellycomedy. Since then, her comic videos have gone on to earn millions of views. She has since gained over 2 million accumulated followers and earned over 100 million likes through her social media accounts. Apart from her work as a standup comedian, Michelle was discovered through her social media by Studio Lambert and was chosen to be on the number one reality show, The Circle Season 3 on NETFLIX. Her time on The Circle was the most watched season to date, the world fell in love with her southern twang and funny personality.
March 3 - Carden International Circus at the Bell County Expo Center, 1-5 pm. Our Circus family cannot wait for you to plan a spectacular outing of family fun at our 2024 Spectacular NEW Show! We want to invite YOU to be our guest and revisit the magical memories of your childhood while creating new ones with your own kids that will last a lifetime.
March 10-11 - Tom Segura at the Bell County Expo Center, 7 pm-12 am. Actor/Comedian/ Writer Tom Segura is one of the biggest names in the comedy business. He recently toured over 300 cities on his I’M COMING EVERYWHERE WORLD TOUR. He is best known for his Netflix specials Ball Hog (2020), Disgraceful (2018), Mostly Stories (2016), and Completely Normal (2014). His fifth Netflix special Sledgehammer released July 4, 2023 and debuted at #1 on the streamer. In July 2022, Segura released his New York Times Bestselling book I’D LIKE TO PLAY ALONE, PLEASE to wide praise with Forbes calling it “laugh out loud funny.” Paste Magazine described him as, “...having a natural and capable storytelling ability, one that lifts his narratives out
Copyright of photos go to the photographers and everyone who submitted them respectively. If you feel so inclined send a few photos of your own to production.hometowns@gmail.com to be included.
of average anecdote fare and plants them firmly in hilarious ground.” Your Mom’s House Studios is home to his hit podcasts Your Mom’s House which he co-hosts with his wife, comedian Christina Pazsitzky, 2 Bears 1 Cave which he co-hosts with Bert Kreischer, and many more. Additionally, YMH Studios was one of the first networks to create wildly successful Livestream Podcast Events as an outcome of the pandemic.
March 11 - The Greatest Showman Sing Along at The Beltonian Theatre, 9-11am. Come SingAlong to this uplifting instant classic back on the BIG SCREEN! Reserve your seats in advance and remember to arrive 30-45 minutes prior to your movie time to avoid those pesky likes.
March 11 - Deep in the Heart: A Texas Wildlife Story at The Beltonian Theatre, 6-8:30pm. Spring Break 2024, come enjoy this love story to Texas narrated by none other than Matthew McConaughey. A visually stunning celebration of what makes Texas unique, its diverse landscapes and remarkable wildlife behavior that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Reserve your seats in advance and remember to arrive 30-45 minutes prior to your movie time to avoid those pesky likes.
March 15 - Holly Tucker at The Beltonian Theatre, 9am-11pm. Holly Tucker, who has been called the Angel of Texas Country Music, is tenaciously proving that great things are worth the wait. After winning the hearts of millions of television viewers in 2013 on Season 4 of NBC’s hit music reality show, The Voice, Holly is leaving her boot print all over Texas Country Music and with fans worldwide. In her personal time, Holly, her husband Spencer and their Mini Australian Shepherd, Maverick, enjoy time at home and with family and going on walks together. She is very passionate about health and strength training and helping lead worship on the praise team at her home church in Waco, First Woodway. Holly also has a huge heart for helping others and giving back. She has engaged with several non-profit organizations including The American Heart Association, Meals on Wheels, and Fuzzy Friends Waco. In 2017, after Hurricane Harvey swept through Texas leaving Houston and nearby coastal cities and towns in ruins, Holly launched her own “Martin Goes to Harvey” Campaign, collecting fellow country artists’ signatures on a beautiful new Martin guitar, which she then raffled, raising thousands of dollars for relief efforts. Holly also does various speaking engagements and makes regular visits to the area hospitals, businesses, and schools, inspiring others with her
music, strong values, genuine conversation, and musical journey.
March 16 - Scott Taylor & Jenn Ford at Fire Street Pizza, 5pm. Scott Taylor is a Central Texas Favorite, and he's teaming up with East Texas Singer Songwriter Jenn Ford for some exciting stuff. Fire Street Pizza is gonna be the place to catch this duo as they blossom with their new collaborations, and there's a story behind the chemistry on stage. Jenn and Scott served together in the US Army Europe Band and Chorus, entertaining military audiences and performing at European festivals. They then both returned to different parts of Texas and started pursuing music, but kept in touch. Since 2018, Jenn has amassed 100k followers on Facebook and 25 songs released to streaming services. She called Scott and asked if he wanted to join her band, The Wide Eyed Devils, and now they are reaching for the stars. This pair combines blues, country, and rock for a sound all its own. Do not miss this acoustic treat.
March 18 - Young Frankenstein (1974) at The Beltonian Theatre, 6-8pm. Come LOL with us as we put on the ritz and enjoy this classic Mel Brooks Comedy back on the BIG SCREEN for its 50th Anniversary. (We think it's pronounced Frankensteeen!) Reserve your seats in advance and remember to arrive 30-45 minutes prior to your movie time to avoid those pesky likes.
March 29-31 - Lone Star Spring Spectacular
Triple Show at the Cadence Bank Center, 1pm. The North American Peruvian Horse Association presents the Lone Star Spring Spectacular Triple Show. The judges will be Danell Adams, Jose Risso Montes, & Eduardo Risso Montes.
April 5 - Celest Fest Eclipse at Camp Tahuaya BSA, 8-11pm. Celest Fest is a family-friendly, sober festival that seeks to create a sacred and transformative experience through the power of song and dance. With a commitment to intimate gatherings and intentional curation, Celest Fest Eclipse aims to rekindle profound connections with self, community, and nature. The festival takes place from April 5th to 9th, 2024. Musical headliners include Gone Gone Beyond, YAIMA, Peia, and Alexa Sunshine Rose.
April 9 - Coffee & Convos! at AR•U•SHA Coffee & Tea, 10am-12pm. Join us for a cozy and casual gathering of coffee lovers where we can sip, chat, and connect.
April 13 - Jazz, Family Fun, and Pizza! At Fire Street Pizza, 6-9pm. Join us for family fun and
Copyright of photos go to the photographers and everyone who submitted them respectively. If you feel so inclined send a few photos of your own to production.hometowns@gmail.com to be included.
great pizza and drinks. They have a fantastic outdoor deck and stage. There are fun outdoor games and a cool playscape!
Comanche
April 6 - Sippin’ in The Sunshine at the Historic Comanche Square, All Day. Kick off the spring season at the Sippin’ in the Sunshine Festival, taking place on Comanche Square. Expect to find a mix of different wineries and breweries paired with bites curated by Comanche and surrounding-area chefs. The event also features live music and vendors. General Admission is $25, VIP Experience is $45.
Copperas Cove
February 9 - “The Return of Brother Jon” Live at The Cove Theater, 8:30-10:30pm. **This show is for those who are 18 & up only. BYOB 21 & up.** Rainbow Heart Studio invites you to join us for "The Return of Brother Jon," an evocative and immersive concert experience that promises a journey of emotional depth and authentic expression. Following the resounding impact of "A Funeral for Brother Jon," this showcase continues to explore the themes of vulnerability, belonging, and authenticity, resonating deeply with our audience. In this continuation, celebrated local singer/songwriter Jonathan Owens takes the stage with an array of original works that speak to the soul. His music, known for its raw honesty and poignant lyricism, offers a sanctuary for reflection and connection. This show isn't just a performance; it's a communal experience, a gathering of hearts and minds. Whether or not you witnessed the first chapter, "The Return of Brother Jon" stands alone as a powerful testament to the healing power of music. It's a celebration of the misfits, the outcasts, and the dreamers in our community, affirming that everyone has a place where they belong. Here, in the harmony of Owens' melodies, you'll find a space to live your truth, forge meaningful relationships, and feel deeply seen, cherished, and uplifted. Join us for an evening where music transcends mere entertainment and becomes a force for unity and self-discovery. In "The Return of Brother Jon," you're not just an audience member; you're part of a family, a community of souls seeking solace and authenticity in a world that often overlooks them. (A portion of the proceeds from this showcase will go towards the Rainbow Heart Studio Scholarship Fund, to help serve our local underprivileged youth to gain access to art & music through creative self-expression.)
February 10 - Open House: Murders at Karlov Manor at Underground Games, 3-9 pm. Discover the magic at our Open House event this release weekend! New players can learn the ropes with our Starter Kit, while experienced enthusiasts
are invited to mentor and join the fun. Enjoy casual games with Starter Kit decks or team up for Two-Headed Giant matches using Jumpstart 2022 packs. It's more than an introduction; it's a chance to connect with our vibrant Magic community. Join us for a day of learning, playing, and forging new friendships at Underground Games – where Magic begins!
February 15 - EDW Lucha Live at FUBAR Sports Bar, 8:30-10:30pm. Adults ONLY, 21+. One night, endless memories: Dwarfs VS Minis. Be there to see history in the making as these pint-sized warriors prove that courage knows NO SIZE LIMITS! Come and see… Los Mini Enmascarados (Mini Masked Wrestlers) perform the unique Mexican Cultural Art Form of Lucha Libre in the ring where they will show off their flying aerials and scissor kicks, wheelbarrow holds, and defend their title to become a champion! General Admission (standing or seated) is $25, and Ringside (seated 1st-4th row) is $40.
February 17 - Gone Fishin: Copperas Cove Fishing in The Park Event at Copperas Cove City Park, 9-11 am. Looking for some free family fun that will help your little ones learn an outdoor skill? The City of Copperas Cove has you covered! Fishing In the Park is a FREE community event for all ages. You're encouraged to bring your own fishing gear, but there will be a limited amount of supplies available, so if you don't have gear, get there early! It happens on Saturday, February 17 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the City Park Pond.
March 23 - From A Jack to a King at The Cove Theatre, 5 pm. The Cove Theater and Hound Dog Productions invite you to come experience all the top hits of King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley! This musical journey will take you from the hits of the 1950’s, such as “Jailhouse Rock” and “Heartbreak Hotel” through the 1970’s hits like, “Suspicious Minds” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love”! All these and more will be performed LIVE on stage with 3 amazing award-winning Elvis tribute artists! Purchase of a ticket also includes access to our exclusive after party where you can meet and greet and hang out with the entertainers after the show from 9 pm-midnight at San Miguel's Mexican Restaurant!!!!
March 30 - 2024 Copperas Cove Easter Egg Round Up at Copperas Cove City Park, 10 am12 pm. The Copperas Cove Parks and Recreation Department would like to invite you to our annual Easter Egg Round Up event on March 30, 2024, at the Cove City Park (1206 W. Avenue B. Copperas Cove, TX 76522) from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Pictures with the Easter Bunny will be from
Copyright of photos go to the photographers and everyone who submitted them respectively. If you feel so inclined send a few photos of your own to production.hometowns@gmail.com to be included.
10:15 am to 12:00 pm Due to the amount of kids in the older age groups, we ask that parents stay behind the hunt lines and allow the kids to be able to gather the eggs. This is a FREE event! Age groups and times for the Easter Egg hunts are as follows:
Ages 0-2 and adaptive will be at 10:00 am on Field 3 (line up at 9:45 am), Ages 3-4 will be at 10:15 am on Field 1 & 2 (line up at 10:00 am), Ages 5-6 will be at 10:30 am on Field 3 (line up at 10:15 am),
Ages 7-8 will be at 10:45 am on Field 1 & 2 (line up at 10:30 am), Ages 9-10 will be at 11:00 am on Field 3 (line up at 10:45 am). *Adaptive hunt is for any child with a physical or mental disability.
April 5-7 - Spring into the Eclipse 24-Hour Adult Softball Tournament at Copperas Cove City Park, 12 pm-3 pm. 24-Hour Adult Softball Tournament during the Spring into the Eclipse weekend April 5th - April 7th!! $1,000 cash prize for first place in Men's and Coed (based on the number of teams registered)! Minimum 15 teams needed per league. Registration: December 1stMarch 29th. Fee: $350 per team, $15 pay umpires at the plate. All USSSA rules apply.
April 5-9 - Solar Eclipse - Camp TotaliTee at Ogletree Gap Reserve, 11am-2pm. Where will you be? The Eclipse is happening in Copperas Cove on April 8, 2024 at 1:36 pm and will last 4 minutes and 23 seconds. Join us for this City-Wide event. We will be at- Ogletree Gap which has the original stage stop at this historical town site. This is a beautiful area for exploring and walking in a natural setting and viewing the eclipse. Ogletree Gap is on the edge of Texas Hill Country in Southern Coryell County about two miles southwest of Copperas Cove. But the party doesn't stop and end there. The beginning of the event will be in historic downtown Copperas Cove. Join us for music, festivities, vendors, food trucks, a disc golf tournament and much much more!
April 6-8 - Copperas Cove Spring into the Eclipse Festival at Copperas Cove Parks and Recreation, Apr 6th 2-10pm, 7th 12-8pm, 8th 9am-5pm. Experience the Great American Total Solar Eclipse in Copperas Cove, Texas on April 8th, 2024 with 4 minutes and 22 seconds of full totality! The threeday Spring Fest will kick off on Saturday, April 6th and will end on Eclipse Day, April 8th! Spring into the Eclipse festival is our Annual Spring Festival where we will showcase some of the best food trucks of Central Texas, come shop the local Market vendors, and grab a drink from one of our many beer and wine tents and enjoy the live entertainment! $10 Parking, $2 Walk-in.
Canfills Gap
February 24 - Gap Youth dinner and auction at
Cranfills Gap ISD 505 S 2nd St, 5pm. Dinner 5:30 pm, Auction 6:30 pm.
DeLeon
February 3 - Pottery Class at The Chaos Trading Co In De Leon, 4-6pm. Come join us for a handson pottery class at Chaos Trading Co in De Leon and unleash your creativity in a fun and relaxed atmosphere!
February 3 - Make A Stained-Glass Heart Spinner or Sun Catcher at the Chaos Trading Co, 7-11pm. Come join us for a fun and creative event where you can make your very own stained glass heart spinner or sun catcher! Get your artistic juices flowing as you design and craft a beautiful piece of stained-glass art. This in-person event will take place at 166 N Texas St, so Mark your calendars and don't miss out on this opportunity to create something truly unique and special. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just looking for a fun activity, this event is perfect for everyone. So, grab a friend or come solo, and let your creativity shine!
February 24 - DeLeon Texas Indian Artifact Show at the DeLeon City Hall, 8 am-4 pm. Indian artifacts dealers, authenticators & enthusiasts. Western collectibles, books, jewelry, artifact cases & more. Food, drinks, and snacks will be available. Bring along any artifacts you wish to sell or have valued. Buy - Sell - Trade 8’ Tables $40. Display only - free, if available. Dealer Setup Friday afternoon and Saturday morning.
Dublin
February 10 - Chicken House Flea Market at 8080 US-377, 8 am-3 pm. Visit the Chicken House Flea Market, located between Stephenville & Dublin!
February 20 - Dublin Rotary and Chamber of Commerce Lunch & Network at The Station, 12130pm. Please join The Dublin Chamber of Commerce and the Dublin Rotary for a Lunch and Network. Networking and Learning Opportunities. Come on out and join us for Lunch and Network and learn about ways to save you time and money this summer! Ages invited: Adults. The cost is $0, but you must register each time. Please RSVP at 435-229-8369.
March 8 - Shelby Rae Marshall at Lucky Vines Vineyard & Winery, 5-8pm. In a mobile home just off the Brazos River in Millsap, Texas, little Shelby Rae began her singing career, performing homespun shows for family and neighbors. At 7, she would take her show on the road — when her family built a house about an hour south in Dublin. There, near extended family and in their small, local church, Gospel music grafted into her bones. A young Shelby would also learn to play piano. But
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she soon realized that her real passion was for the dulcet tones and story-bearing capabilities of the guitar, following in her Great Uncle’s, and Father’s footsteps. At the age of 10, she began writing her own songs, and Two years later, she found herself in the Texas Hill Country, where she sang in choir and continued honing her 6-string skills, writing songs late into the nights in her room. After years of posting her performances on the socials, Marshall decided it was time to take the show out of the room and onto the stage. After all, “it’s alright to be a little Honky’er than the rest.” From Nashville Twang to Southern Gospel Bluegrass to Texas Country, fans of the “Princess of Texas Hill Country Music '' enjoy heartfelt, emotional originals and join-in relatable covers.
March 9 - Chicken House Flea Market at 8080 US-377, 8am-3pm. Visit the Chicken House Flea Market, located between Stephenville & Dublin! March 16 - Saint Patrick’s Day at Dublin City Park, 9am-8pm. The parade will take place downtown along the usual route down Patrick Street. Events and vendors will be spread between downtown and the city park.
March 19 - Dublin Rotary and Chamber of Commerce Lunch & Network at The Station, 12-1:30pm. Please join The Dublin Chamber of Commerce and the Dublin Rotary for a Lunch and Network. Networking and Learning Opportunities. Come on out and join us for Lunch and Network and learn about ways to save you time and money this summer! Ages invited: Adults. Cost is $0, but must register each time. Please RSVP at 435-229-8369.
April 13 - Shelby Rae Marshall at Lucky Vines Vineyard & Winery, 4-7pm. In a mobile home just off the Brazos River in Millsap, Texas, little Shelby Rae began her singing career, performing homespun shows for family and neighbors. At 7, she would take her show on the road — when her family built a house about an hour south in Dublin. There, near extended family and in their small, local church, Gospel music grafted into her bones. A young Shelby would also learn to play piano. But she soon realized that her real passion was for the dulcet tones and story-bearing capabilities of the guitar, following in her Great Uncle’s, and Father’s footsteps. At the age of 10, she began writing her own songs, and Two years later, she found herself in the Texas Hill Country, where she sang in choir and continued honing her 6-string skills, writing songs late into the nights in her room. After years of posting her performances on the socials, Marshall decided it was time to take the show out of the room and onto the stage. After all, “it’s al-
right to be a little Honky’er than the rest.” From Nashville Twang to Southern Gospel Bluegrass to Texas Country, fans of the “Princess of Texas Hill Country Music '' enjoy heartfelt, emotional originals and join in relatable covers.
April 13 - Chicken House Flea Market at 8080 US-377, 8 am-3 pm. Visit the Chicken House Flea Market, located between Stephenville & Dublin! April 16 - Dublin Rotary and Chamber of Commerce Lunch & Network at The Station, 12-130pm. Please join The Dublin Chamber of Commerce and the Dublin Rotary for a Lunch and Network. Networking and Learning Opportunities. Come on out and join us for Lunch and Network and learn about ways to save you time and money this summer! Ages invited: Adults. The cost is $0, but you must register each time. Please RSVP at 435229-8369.
Gatesville
February 2-3 - February Pearl Bluegrass Jam at Pearl Bluegrass, 1215-6 pm. FREE ADMISSION. All levels of acoustic musicians jamming in the historical Pearl Community Center. Concessions. RV hookups for rent. Outdoor vendor booths are available for crafters, etc. Doors open Friday at 5:00 pm for early arrivals. Join fellow musicians in our four large jam rooms and outdoor pavilion. One room is designated for a slow jam, just for beginners! Children and adults of all levels are welcome. Just bring your acoustic instrument and join in! Saturday, we will have an open mic starting at 10:00 am. Play one song or ten! Those playing a minimum of 45 minutes are eligible for a free meal or a free RV hookup. Spectators are welcome to move from room to room to listen to all the musicians play, as well as, visiting the auditorium when open mic performers are on stage. For those wanting to secure a spot on the open mic stage please call Ronald at 254-865-6013, or sign up with him upon your arrival. RV spot reservations can be made by calling Connie at 254-2230621. 50 amp/$25 & 30 amp/$20 or just pay in the kitchen upon your arrival. Vendors are welcome to sell their treasures (no prepared food, please) on Saturday. You are welcome to set up BETWEEN the cabin and the community center entrance on the lawn. Bring your own shade, tables, and chairs. Or sell from your car or trailer. $5 per booth. Pay the ladies in the kitchen for your booth. Set up at your convenience on Saturday morning. The Pearl Book Cottage will be open Saturday at 10:00 am. Tons of books and interesting items! Shop the bookstore and vendors for unique items! *Concession sales, RV rentals, and donations keep our doors open. Your support is greatly appreciated!
February 10 - Gatesville Riding Club Practice
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Timed Pattern Racing Play Day at the Gatesville Civic Center, 8:30am. TIMED PATTERN RACING *MEMBERS ONLY* PLAYDAY EVENT. * Not a member yet? Annual membership is $50 for the year, available at sign-up. Patterns: Pole Bending, Clover Leaf Barrels, Key Way. Entry Fee: $0, Nada, Nothing. Really! Membership in Gatesville Riding Club is the only requirement. This is a practice event to introduce our member contestants to our new divisional format. New this season: 6 Speed Divisions / no age groups. multiple horses per rider ALLOWED. Exhibitions are offered for all patterns.
February 10 - A Chocolate Market walk. Join us for our epic event, A Chocolate Walk hosted by Cowgirls to Lace, 1854 Mercantile, Salty Señorita, Gussied Up, Hummingbird, Pennoli Bed and Breakfast Vendor(s) Market You will travel to each Business shop, and check out their new arrivals! This annual event will once again feature locally owned business, music, entertainment, Health and Wellness, vendors, and more! Keep your eye out there could be More details coming soon so mark your calendar— this is A Chocolate Walk Event that you don’t wanna miss. Refreshments and Entertainment at most business!
March 1-2 - March Pearl Bluegrass Jam at Pearl Bluegrass, 1215-6 pm. FREE ADMISSION
All levels of acoustic musicians jamming in the historical Pearl Community Center. Concessions. RV hookups for rent. Outdoor vendor booths are available for crafters, etc. Doors open Friday at 5:00 pm for early arrivals. Join fellow musicians in our four large jam rooms and outdoor pavilion. One room is designated for a slow jam, just for beginners! Children and adults of all levels are welcome. Just bring your acoustic instrument and join in! Saturday, we will have an open mic starting at 10:00 am. Play one song or ten! Those playing a minimum of 45 minutes are eligible for a free meal or a free RV hookup. Spectators are welcome to move from room to room to listen to all the musicians play, as well as, visit the auditorium when open mic performers are on stage. For those wanting to secure a spot on the open mic stage please call Ronald at 254-865-6013, or sign up with him upon your arrival. RV spot reservations can be made by calling Connie at 254-2230621. 50 amp/$25 & 30 amp/$20 or just pay in the kitchen upon your arrival. Vendors are welcome to sell their treasures (no prepared food, please) on Saturday. You are welcome to set up BETWEEN the cabin and the community center entrance on the lawn. Bring your own shade, tables, and chairs. Or sell from your car or trailer. $5 per booth. Pay the ladies in the kitchen for your booth. Set up at your convenience on Saturday morning. The Pearl
Book Cottage will be open Saturday at 10:00 am. Tons of books and interesting items! Shop the book store and vendors for unique items! *Concession sales, RV rentals and donations keep our doors open. Your support is greatly appreciated!
March 2 - Gatesville Band 5th Annual Mattress Fundraiser at Gatesville High School, 10am5pm. The Gatesville Band Mattress Fundraiser is back! Do you deserve a better night’s sleep? Come to Gatesville HS on Saturday, March 2nd from 10am – 5pm to try out over 25 different styles. You’ll save money. You’ll sleep better. You’ll support the Band. Your back, knees, hips, and heart will thank you. This is ONE DAY ONLY. Please help us spread the word. Bring your family & friends while you have fun shopping for the nighttime comfort of your dreams.
March 9-10 - Micro Wrestling at the Gatesville Civic Center, 8pm-1am. THIS SHOW IS ALLAGES! The Micro Wrestling Federation is a fullscale, WWE type event supported by an entire cast under five feet tall. It’s going to be pandemonium as the Micro Wrestlers body slam, bear hug, and headlock throughout an evening of nonstop action. Here is what you can expect: Two Single Matches: Who are the toughest Micro Wrestlers? Come find out! Micro Brawl: Body slams, suplexes, and punches to the face can take place anywhere in the venue! Get ready for up-close and personal Micro action! Micro Royal Rumble: All the Micro superstars enter the squared circle and stand tiny toe to tiny toe against one another in the main event! The belt is on the line and only one Micro wrestler will leave as champion. Following the show: Fans can stick around and socialize and get autographs with the Micro cast members!
April 6 - Explore the science and wonder of a Total Solar Eclipse at Gatesville City Hall, 4pm. If you are an astronomy enthusiast or simply curious about rare astronomical events, you won't want to miss this presentation on Syzygy. Join Liam Finn NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador for an in person talk on Solar Eclipses in wonderful downtown Gatesville at the historic city Auditorium. Syzygy, besides being a fun word to say, is a rare alignment of three celestial bodies. In this presentation, we will explore the science and wonder behind this incredible phenomenon of solar eclipses. 2024 offers Americans another chance to see a total solar eclipse that will captivate sky watchers across the United States. We will dive into the details of these eclipses, examining their paths and characteristics, as well as exploring the science behind their occurrence. You will learn about the different types of solar eclipses, including total eclipses, annular eclipses, and partial eclipses. We will discuss the
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unique features of each type and what you can expect to see during each. We will also examine how modern science has advanced our understanding of these celestial events. Finally, we will provide tips and advice for viewing solar eclipses safely and effectively. Whether you are an experienced sky watcher or a newcomer to astronomy, this presentation on Syzygy and the upcoming American solar eclipse promises to be an informative and exciting journey into the cosmos to prepare you for the event on April 8th 2024. Tickets are free, but limited, so reserve your ticket in advance. Event tickets are run by the City of Gatesville.
April 6-9 - Pearl Texas Solar Eclipse RV & Camping at 6301 FM 183, 3-10PM. Get your RV and camping gear ready, because Pearl, TX is the place to be on April 6-8, 2024 for the unforgettable Solar Eclipse experience! About this Event: The historic Pearl Community Center has camping spaces available for the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse. We are a home town country community with no store, ATM, gas station, or WIFI. Cell service is also limited, so if you want to unplug and enjoy nature’s best, this is the place! We have 34 camping sites available with 30- and 50-amp breakers, and an additional 20 spaces for boondocking or primitive tent camping. We have a 3-night stay minimum (April 6-8), and a limit of 2 licensed vehicles per site. Eclipse viewing glasses are included. A brown bag lunch will also be provided on Monday, served from 11am to 12:30 pm. Bath facilities are also available. Costs are: Trailer Full Hookups 30 or 50 amp $150 per night (2 people) =$450. Trailer Water and Electric $120 per night (2 people) =$360. Boondocking /primitive camping $100 per night (2 people) =$300. Additional people $30 per night per person =$90 Maximum 8 people per site. No Firearms, No Fireworks, No drugs or alcohol, No golf carts, ATVs, or other unlicensed vehicles, Dogs must be in control and leashed, outside only. If a burn ban is in effect, no campfires. Quiet time 10pm – 7am All violators are subject to removal. No refunds or guarantee of weather. Saturday is an acoustical music day (no amplified music). Jam Sessions and listening are available to anyone. We have four rooms for jams, an open-air pavilion, and an open mic opportunity in our auditorium. Free admission. Kitchen has homemade food and desserts for sale. Cash Only. All proceeds benefit the community center and its upkeep. Camping before or after the event can be arranged with Connie. 254-223-0621.
Goldthwaite
March 1 - Pete Henry at Southside Tavern, 7-11pm. Peter Henry Fisk, b. 1985, is an American singer and instrumentalist. A performer since age 9, Pete has been recognized for his skills on
guitar in several styles, including early music, folk, jazz, and blues. Since settling in as a singer, he has toured internationally - notable performances during the SXSW 2021 Festival in Austin, TX and opening act for Scott Stapp, the voice of Creed, in 2022 - with his one-man band arrangements of classics and original music.
Hico
February 10 - Alejandro Escovedo at HiCo Hall, 7pm. Live music, good times, cold drinks. A celebrated singer and songwriter, Alejandro Escovedo has as eclectic a background and body of work as any rock artist of his generation. As comfortable performing with a string ensemble as he is with an amped-up power trio, and as likely to bare his soul in his lyrics as he is to display some serious rock & roll swagger, Escovedo had already played an important role in punk (with the Nuns), roots rock (the True Believers), and alt-country (Rank & File) before he launched a solo career that's seen him work with everyone from Tony Visconti, John Cale to Bruce Springsteen.
February 11 - Charlie Shafter at HiCo Hall, 2-6pm. Sometimes you encounter a musical artist for the first time and find yourself experiencing a warm sense of déjà vu – not a feeling that you’ve heard it all before, but a feeling that you’ve reunited with a person you’ve known for ages, someone with whom you share a connection. That’s the vibe conjured up by Charlie Shafter, a young singer-songwriter with an old soul – and a knack for forging a connection with just about anyone who crosses paths with his songs. On his self-titled debut album, the 27-year-old Shafter weaves ten richlytoned tales that recall iconic writers such as Townes Van Zandt and Elliott Smith, songs that range into acoustic blues and the grittier side of country-rock on a panoramic trek through blue-highway Americana. Shafter doesn’t write songs that grab you by the lapel and shake you into listening; they’re more likely to throw an arm around you and whisper their way into your consciousness.
Killeen
February 2 - Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka, JR. at Central Texas Theatre at Vive Les Arts Societe, 2:30-4:30pm. Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka JR. follows enigmatic candy manufacturer Willy Wonka as he stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. Whomever comes up with these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy. Four of the five winning children are insufferable brats, but the fifth is a likeable young lad named Charlie Bucket, who takes the tour in the company of his equally amiable grandfather. The children must learn to follow Mr. Wonka’s rules in the factory — or suffer the consequences.
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February 3 - African American Arts & History Showcase at Killeen Civic and Conference Center, 12-6pm. Killeen (February. 03) I.M.P.A.C Outreach and The Making Our Society Stronger Foundation is pleased to present the 2024 7th Annual Historically Black College University (HBCU) College Fair and AFRICAN AMERICAN ARTS & HISTORY SHOWCASE (AAAHS). Let’s celebrate the unique experiences within the broad spectrum of the African American journey towards Black Excellence. Making Our Society Stronger Foundation presents, Historically Black College University (HBCU) College Fair. Future college students will have a chance to visit over 30 colleges/universities and vendors providing great information. Students/Parents will attend workshops related to college readiness including Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) seminar. After the college fair, enjoy the 6th Annual African American Arts and History Showcase. AAAHS is all about embracing the outstanding contributions of the African American experiences through education, entertainment, networking, and information. For the last six years, IMPAC Outreach has continuously brought the AFRICAN AMERICAN ARTS & HISTORY SHOWCASE to the city of Killeen. The event renders a platform that allows for community and business connections and showcasing the outstanding achievements. IMPAC Outreach and Making Our Society Stronger Foundation cordially invites you to join us on Saturday, February 3rd, starting at 12PM-5PM HBCU COLLEGE FAIR /AAAHS. Grab the family, friends, and enjoy as we celebrate and educate our community through education preparedness, performances, spoken word, genealogy class, art & crafts.
February 3 - Audition Workshop: Mean Girls High School Version at Central Texas Theatre at Vive Les Arts Societe, 9am-1:30pm. These workshops will cover everything you need to know to feel confident and ready for auditions! This workshop is open for anyone ages 11-18. There are two sessions of this workshop (9:00am-11:00am & 11:30am-1:30pm). This workshop costs $10 to attend. There are 75 slots available per workshop session. *Refunds are not available for Audition Workshops. *
February 4 - Sneaker Market Killeen at Killeen Civic and Conference Center, 12-5pm. BUY/ SELL/TRADE at the Killeen Civic Center. 50+ vendors with 1000’s of sneakers, art, vintage, Live DJ & food trucks more! 12-5pm February4, 2024! ALL AGES WELCOME! Come win some free shoes and other prizes!
February 18 - Black Girl Therapy- Stage Play-
Killeen at Central Texas Theatre at Vive Les Arts Societe, 3-4:30pm. Six black girls, strangers to each other, go to a group therapy session. They may be strangers going in but they'll never be the same coming out. The therapist has each girl choose her number which will define who she is. Come join the session and find the answer to what is your number. Every girl has a number... What's yours?
March 15 - Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at Central Texas Theatre at Vive Les Arts Societe, 730pm. Lawrence Jameson makes his lavish living by talking rich ladies out of their money. Freddy Benson more humbly swindles women by waking their compassion with fabricated stories about his grandmother's failing health. After meeting on a train, they attempt to work together, only to find that this small French town isn't big enough for the two of them. They agree on a settlement: the first one to extract $50,000 from a young female target, heiress, Christine Colgate, wins, and the other must leave town. A hilarious battle of cons ensues that will keep audiences laughing, humming, and guessing to the end!
March 16 - Flavors of Central Texas 2024 at Downtown Killeen, 4-7pm. Indulge in a delectable journey through the heart of Central Texas, where the region's most tantalizing tastes come alive in a one-of-a-kind event. From savory barbecue to zesty Tex-Mex, from farm-fresh produce to mouthwatering desserts, we're bringing together the diverse and delicious flavors that define Central Texas cuisine. Event Highlights - Culinary Delights: Immerse yourself in a feast of Central Texas' finest foods, each dish celebrating our region's culinary heritage. Bingo Adventure: Purchase your exclusive Bingo Ticket for a chance to win amazing prizes while savoring the flavors! Each ticket comes with a Bingo card that doubles as your passport to a world of delectable free samples. Vendor Paradise: Discover a Marketplace with local vendors offering their best products. And remember, with your Bingo Ticket, you'll enjoy complimentary samples – without it, prepare to indulge at full price. Prize Galore: Complete lines on your Bingo card to win enticing prizes, including culinary experiences, gourmet gift baskets, and MORE. Community Vibes: Connect with fellow food enthusiasts, share your love for the vibrant Central Texas food scene, and make lasting memories.
March 22 - 60th Anniversary Diamond Jubilee at Killeen Civic and Conference Center, 6pm. This exciting event will celebrate the past 60 years that BGCTX has had the honor of providing a safe, enriching, and affordable place for our community’s youth at times when they need us the most. We
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recognize that it takes the support and commitment of all leaders of our community to help ensure our youth have a place where they can receive academic support, information about leading a healthy lifestyle, and guidance on positive character development and being good citizens. We look forward to celebrating 60 years of service to our youth and honor those who have helped pave the way.
March 30 - Easter Egg Hunt & Easter Bingo at 810 N W S Young Dr Ste 100, 7:30-10:30pm. Join us for a fun-filled day of Easter excitement! Get ready to search for colorful eggs and win amazing prizes in our thrilling Easter Egg Hunt. After the hunt, test your luck and enjoy some friendly competition with Easter Bingo. It's the perfect event for families and friends to come together and celebrate the joy of Easter. Don't miss out on this eggcellent opportunity to create special memories! See you there!
April 6 - Acting Intensive: Silent Sky at Central Texas Theatre at Vive Les Arts Societe, 9-11am. This workshop is open for anyone ages 16+. There is one session of this workshop (9:00am-11:00am). This workshop costs $20 to attend. There are 75 slots available for this workshop session. This workshop will be an Acting Intensive. *Refunds are not available for this Acting Intensive. *
April 6 - Vision Board Brunch at 810 N W S Young Dr Ste 100, 5:30-8:30pm. Join us for a fun and inspiring Vision Board Brunch! Get ready to unleash your creativity, set goals, and manifest your dreams. Bring your friends and enjoy a delicious brunch while you design your personalized vision board. Let's gather together, share ideas, and motivate each other to reach for the stars. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create a visual representation of your dreams and aspirations. It's time to make your vision a reality!
April 7 - Culture on the Square Jamboree| Eclipse Edition at Killeen Civic and Conference Center, 11am-3pm. The Culture on the Square Jamboree creates a safe and fun space for eclipse travelers & local families. Innovation Black Chamber of Commerce’s upcoming Culture on The Square Jamboree: The vision is to revitalize cities through Culture, Economics and Entertainment. This is an imprint that will be left on us all. Our first Jamboree was on Oct 16, 2021 and it was an amazing time for all who came out! The dream came ALIVE! We welcome ALL business owner vendors of all kinds, children’s activity vendors, food trucks and entertainers to grace us with your time and talent. We welcome the essence of what it means to support our culture by celebrating and uplift-
ing one another. We are FREE to uplift, encourage, and empower all people to succeed in all they do!
April 13 - Seasoned Strikers at Killeen Bowlerama, 12-4pm. 4 person Handicap Mixed Teams and Single Events. Entries close March 30, 2024. Bowlers must have reached the age of 50 prior to April 13, 2024. Handicap is based on 100% of 215. Virtual Doubles will be available onsite and paid out with tournament winnings. Entry for Team Event - $20, Entry for Singles - $20, All Events HDCP. is offered for $5. Both events will be offered at each squad. Entry Forms and General Tournament Rules can be found on the website: www.bowlkilleenforthood.org/tournaments. Side events will be available at each squad. Side events can include High Game Pots, Mystery Score, Strike Pot, Split the Pot, Ball Raffles, and Brackets. Winners in each event/division are invited to participate in the Ultimate Showdown tournament on May 12th. Prize Fund will be distributed once results are finalized. Checks will be distributed to the responsible party. We have added $500 to the PF for teams.
April 14 - The Car Meet 2 Texas Import Night at Killeen Special events Center, 2-11pm. Join us for an epic car meet at the Killeen Special Events Center in Killeen, TX, USA! Get ready to witness the hottest rides and connect with fellow car enthusiasts. Whether you're a fan of classic cars, soupedup imports, or tricked-out trucks, this event has something for everyone. Come and experience the thrill of revving engines, jaw-dropping modifications, and the chance to meet fellow car lovers. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to celebrate our shared passion for all things automotive. Mark your calendars and get ready to have a blast at THE CAR MEET 2 DRIPPIN' SPRINGS General Audience!
Lampasas
February 3 - Lampasas Trade Days at 2646 E Hwy 190, 9am-4pm. We pride ourselves on our down home, small town friendly relationship between our vendors and shoppers. Lampasas Trade Days is a place where you can slow down, visit, ask questions, and talk to collectors and antique dealers. Come meet the artists and craftsmen who create these one-of-a-kind items. Merchandise ranges from Antiques, collectibles, quilts, crafts, folk and fine art, new home furnishings, shabby chic furniture, new clothing, jewelry, candles, handbags, electronics, iron works, outdoor decor, plants, tools, great food concessions and more. We have a little bit of everything. Get out of the city, come to the country for a visit, find lots of treasures, and have a great time!
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March 2 - Lampasas Trade Days at 2646 E Hwy 190, 9am-4pm. We pride ourselves on our down home, small town friendly relationship between our vendors and shoppers. Lampasas Trade Days is a place where you can slow down, visit, ask questions, and talk to collectors and antique dealers. Come meet the artists and craftsmen who create these one-of-a-kind items. Merchandise ranges from antiques, collectibles, quilts, crafts, folk and fine art, new home furnishings, shabby chic furniture, new clothing, jewelry, candles, handbags, electronics, iron works, outdoor decor, plants, tools, great food concessions and more. We have a little bit of everything. Get out of the city, come to the country for a visit, find lots of treasures, and have a great time!
April 5-8 - Solar Eclipse Event 2024-Solar Eclipse Event at Our Friends Campground, check in as early as 3:30pm Apr 4. Pet Friendly (with guidelines, see website for details) Friday night Crawfish Boil Food Truck, and outdoor theater. 2017 Documentary of American Eclipse. Saturday night Polynesian Food and the Bella Pacific Dancers. Sunday night TBD Food Truck and Greg Showman and the Back Creek Band. Corn hole, Horseshoes, and Card/Domino Table available all weekend. City of Lampasas Events /Wineries/ Historical Sites 20 mins West Fort Hood Museum 30 mins East. Late Check out Monday (5:00pm) or stay the night at a reduced rate of $48.00 per site (Tent or Dry RV). Full-Service RV sites are SOLD OUT-*** Taking names for the wait list. 4-day reservations given priority.
April 7-8 - Total Eclipse Viewing Party at Pillar Bluff Vineyards, 6:35pm. Pull up your RV to Pillar Bluff Vineyards outside of Lampasas, TX and join the party to view the last eclipse available to be seen in North America for the next 20 years! The total solar eclipse with a totality of 4 minutes and 27 seconds of darkness, is nearly twice as long as the last eclipse in 2017, and luckily, Pillar Bluff Vineyards is located in one of the top viewing locations within the U.S. for viewing it. Tickets are $800. Tickets get you: Dry RV Parking Spot (class A-C vehicles), A bottle of specially made Cabernet Sauvignon Total Eclipse wine from Pillar Bluff Vineyards, (2) Nights of BBQ Dinners, (2) Nights of Musical Entertainment, Eclipse Viewing Safety Glasses. Enjoy Musical Entertainment by the Texas Elderly Brothers
April 8 - Total Eclipse Party 2024 at Burning Goat Ranch, 9am-3pm. Join us for the Total Eclipse Party 2024 in Lampasas, TX! Get ready for an out-of-this-world experience as we gather at 5900 County Road 202 to witness the mesmerizing total eclipse. This in-person event promises
a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the sun vanish behind the moon for over 4 minutes of totality. Bring your friends & family (eclipse glasses included) for an unforgettable celestial celebration. Don't miss this chance to Marvel at the wonders of the universe right here in Lampasas, Texas. Mark your calendars and be part of the Total Eclipse Party 2024!
Salado
February 3 - Samples at The Strawberry Patch of Salado, 12-6pm. Sample a selection of over 100 gourmet foods noon – 6 pm at The Strawberry Patch.
February 4 - Live Music Sundays at Barrow Brewing Co., 4-5:30pm. Come on over to the Barrow Brewing Co. John Deere Stage and enjoy locally brewed craft beers by the first brewery in Bell County.
February 4 - Raventos i Blanc Brunch at The Barton House of Salado, 11am. Raventos sparkling brunch with Can Xumoi. A 4-course sparkling brunch.
February 6 - Business After Hours & Ribbon Cutting at SohistiKatz Bead Emporium, 5:30-7pm. Join us for our February Business After Hours & Ribbon Cutting hosted by The Rose & Bee. The event is Tuesday, February 6th from 5:30 -7 pm. Business After Hours is an opportunity for businesses to develop new business relationships in a relaxed, social environment by joining other busy professionals after hours. This event will be full of fun, food, and networking! In addition to the Business After Hours we will be celebrating The Rose & Bee with a Ribbon Cutting! Registration is not required for this event. For questions, call (254) 947-5040.
February 14 - Valentine’s Day Couple’s Candle Workshop at The Wick & Burn Candle Bar, 5-7pm. Join us for a romantic and creative experience at our Couple’s Candle-Making Workshop this Valentine’s Day! Located at 805 North Main Street Suite E, Salado, TX, USA, this in-person event is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your loved one. General Admission is $125.
February 18 - Jim & Hilary Pay Barrow Brewing! 4-6pm. We love a good afternoon in Salado, and there's nothing better than playing music for friends! Join us at this super-cool brewery waaaaay north of the river, but sitting on a river itself!
February 21 - A Candle-Making Experience at The Wick & Burn Candle Bar, 12pm. Join us for a
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fun-filled day of candle making at 805 North Main Street Suite E Salado TX USA. Get ready to unleash your creativity as you learn the art of making beautiful candles. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned candle maker this event is perfect for all. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process sharing their tips and tricks along the way. You'll have access to a wide range of fragrances colors and molds allowing you to create unique and personalized candles. So, Mark your calendars and get ready to have a **scent-sational** time at the Candle-Making Experience!
February 26 - Taste of Salado at Tenroc Event Centers, Inc., 5-9pm. The Public Arts League of Salado will be hosting its annual Taste of Salado on Monday, February 26 at beautiful Tenroc Ranch. There will be a cocktail hour with live music from 5:00 to 6:00. At 6:00, restaurants of Bell County will be sharing some of their special dishes. Wineries will be offering unique wines to taste. There will be a silent auction of local talents as well as a live auction of outstanding events and destinations. A $30 ticket includes food, wine tastings, plus one glass of wine. Come join the fun and support public art in Salado.
March 2 - Texas Pizza Fest at Barrow Brewing Company, 11am-7pm. Your General Admission entry fee gets you four tickets to be redeemed at the wood fired pizza trucks of your choice. Trucks will compete for fan favorite (based on number of tickets redeemed). Pizza demos and competitions will be open to pizza loving ticket holders of all ages for extra fun. Live music will be featured on the outdoor John Deere stage and of course Barrow Brewing will have lots of beer pairing recommendations!
March 6 - A Candle-Making Experience at The Wick & Burn Candle Bar, 12pm. Join us for a fun-filled day of candle making at 805 North Main Street Suite E Salado TX USA. Get ready to unleash your creativity as you learn the art of making beautiful candles. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned candle maker this event is perfect for all. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process sharing their tips and tricks along the way. You'll have access to a wide range of fragrances colors and molds allowing you to create unique and personalized candles. So, Mark your calendars and get ready to have a **scent-sational** time at the Candle-Making Experience!
March 9 - Samples at The Strawberry Patch of Salado, 12-6pm. Sample a selection of over 100 gourmet foods noon – 6 pm at The Strawberry Patch.
March 23 - Walt Wilkins at Barrow Brewing Company, 2-6pm. A near constant presence on the Texas Music Chart since its inception as a songwriter, producer, singer, guitar player and artist, Wilkins spent a solid decade in the Nashville Country Music business trenches, writing songs he wanted to be recorded by artists he admired. Wilkins' work has been likened to the greatest and most timeless of the Texas/American troubadours: Guy Clark, Townes Van Zandt, and Kevin Welch among others. But it's the John Steinbeck comparison that means the most. "Diamonds in the Sun", produced by Lloyd Maines, is Walt's latest project scheduled to be released on July 24th by Palo Duro Records.
March 23 - Treaty Oak Revival at Johnny's Steaks & Bar-Be-Que, 6-10pm. Treaty Oak Revival is a young up-and-coming Texas country rock band founded deep in the heart of West Texas. They started out in 2019; the band has formed itself on a foundation of Texas Red Dirt Country combined with its influences of punk and southern rock in their style and playing.
March 23-24 - The 24th Annual Wildflower Arts & Crafts Festival at the Salado Civic Center, 4pm. Enjoy this family-friendly festival by strolling through numerous arts & crafts vendors selling extraordinary, handcrafted items from all over the state. Shop from a large variety of talented crafters including; woodworking, jewelry, original paintings, photography, pottery, toy makers, soap makers, knitting/crochet, embroidery, and more! This springtime event includes arts & crafts, food trucks, live music, and more! Admission is FREE.
March 23-24 - Beyond Horse Massage Weekend Seminar with Kelly Jefferson at Box T Performance Horses, 10am. "If you want to learn how to connect on another level with the horse, this method is it!" ~ Tracy Morgan, MN Student. The Masterson Method® Weekend Seminar is the next practical step to take, after reading/viewing the Beyond Horse Massage Book/DVD. In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn how to recognize and use the visual responses of the horse, to find and release accumulated stress in key junctions of the body, that most affect performance. Jim Masterson has successfully taught these techniques to hundreds of owners, therapists, and trainers worldwide, enabling them to open new levels of communication and relationships with their horses. Prerequisite: to have either read the Beyond Horse Massage book or watched the DVD, before attending the Weekend Seminar-Workshop. https://mastersonmethod.com/product/beyondhorse-massage-combo-book-and-dvd/. We are accredited by the National Certification Board for
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Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork Organization (NCBTMB) for Continuing Education Credits. What goes on at a Masterson Method® Weekend Seminar-Workshop: https://mastersonmethod. com/dt_gallery/weekend-seminar-workshop/. Tuition: $550.
April 6 - A Candle-Making Experience at The Wick & Burn Candle Bar, 12pm. Join us for a fun-filled day of candle making at 805 North Main Street Suite E Salado TX USA. Get ready to unleash your creativity as you learn the art of making beautiful candles. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned candle maker this event is perfect for all. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process sharing their tips and tricks along the way. You'll have access to a wide range of fragrances colors and molds allowing you to create unique and personalized candles. So, Mark your calendars and get ready to have a **scent-sational** time at the Candle-Making Experience!
April 7 - Eclipse Aerial Dance Class at Barrow Brewing Company, 12-5pm. Join us on Sunday, April 7, 2024, for aerial dance classes with expert aerialist and instructor, Brady Meyer! Half-hour lessons are $50 and include a beverage of your choice from Barrow Brewing Company. Up to two guests can come with you for your lesson if you want to share the experience. Additional guests will be charged $40 at the time of class. Classes will take place on Brady's rig in the field next to Salado Creek.
Stephenville
February 2 - Giovannie & The Hired Guns at Twisted J Live, 9am-11pm. Giovannie & The Hired Guns are a rock and roll/country-driven band out of Stephenville, TX. High energy show with lots of head bangs and two steppin' like our page! Let's party.
February 3 - Kody West at Twisted J Live, 7pm. Come listen to Alt Country Singer Kody West at Twisted J Live in Stephenville.
February 16 - Kolby Cooper at Twisted J Live, 9pm. "Still hailing from East Texas, Kolby Cooper is raising his 3 children with his high school sweetheart and wife, Jillian. After releasing his critically acclaimed album “Boy from Anderson County to The Moon,” he made his Grand Ole Opry debut. Marking 4 years in the music business. In that time, he’s garnered millions of streams and soldout shows across the country. The prolific songwriter has an uncanny ability to turn his and his friends’ life stories into relatable songs his rabidly zealous fan base can’t get enough of. Kolby’s latest release through BBR Music / Wheelhouse Records
in partnership with Combustion Music “Kill Me” is an in-your-face anthem with epic vocals and fiery instruments. This is a new era of Kolby Cooper music.
February 17 - Kat Hasty at Twisted J Live, 7pm. The great Bob Dylan once said, “You don’t just wake up one day and decide you need to write songs.” This quote rings true for the up-and-comer, Kat Hasty. As a child, before she knew how to put words on paper, she was singing and writing music. Born and raised in West Texas, her upbringing pours through her songwriting in tales of desert highways and the hustle and bustle of oil towns. Laced with heartache, joy, loss, and female angst, her songs are ingenious and uniquely her own. The songwriter released her EP, “Drowning in Dreams” earlier this March and has seen support from all over the country. Talented and motivated, she is set to begin a long career sharing her stories and growing into the performer that she is fated to be.
March 1 - William Beckmann at Twisted J Live, 9pm. Hailing from the small border town of Del Rio, TX, William Beckmann was raised on classic country as well as the Mariachi and Norteño sounds of northern Mexico. He delivers a fresh blend of vintage country, Americana, and Latin music with a timeless baritone and an old soul maturity that belies his youth. His 2022 album Faded Memories, features the slow-burn single “Bourbon Whiskey” as well as a mesmerizing cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “I’m On Fire” and the haunting “In the Dark.” The album garnered praise from critics including American Songwriter, Billboard, CMT, and more. His current single “Tennessee Drinkin’” from his most recent “Here’s to You. Here’s To Me” album is Beckmann’s fifth consecutive to hit the Top 20 on the Texas Regional Radio Chart and fastest rising to date. Beckmann has amassed an incredible fan base, independently garnering more than 670,000 followers on TikTok and over 3 million streams of Faded Memories. He has spent the last year touring with artists including Parker McCollum, Koe Wetzel, and Randy Rogers Band, sold out three shows at legendary Gruene Hall, and made his Grand Ole Opry debut in Spring, 2023.
March 5 - Twisted Stitches Sit & Knit at Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council, 10am-3pm. Hope you can join us at Cross Timbers Fine Arts for Twisted Stitches Sit & Knit! Please email here for more information! All fiber artists are welcome!
March 9 - Shelby Rae Marshall at City Limits Sports Academy, 7pm. In a mobile home just off the Brazos River in Millsap, Texas, little Shelby Rae
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began her singing career, performing homespun shows for family and neighbors. From Nashville Twang to Southern Gospel Bluegrass to Texas Country, fans of the “Princess of Texas Hill Country Music '' enjoy heartfelt, emotional originals and join-in relatable covers.
March 22 - Dexter & The Moonrocks at Twisted J Live, 9pm. Hailing from Abilene, Texas, Dexter and The Moonrocks have carved a unique niche in the music scene with their innovative blend of Southern Alternative, red-dirt country, and alternative rock, creating a genre their fans affectionately call "Western Space Grunge." The band, consisting of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist James Tuffs, lead guitarist and vocal harmonizer Ryan Anderson, bassist Ty Anderson, and drummer and vocal harmonizer Fox, combines influences from a wide range of artists, including Foo Fighters, Pink Floyd, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, and Whiskey Myers, to produce a sound that is both earth-shattering and introspective. Dexter and The Moonrocks continue to make a significant impact on their fans and the music scene, with a growing following on platforms like TikTok, and Instagram where they share their music and interact closely with their audience. Their unconventional approach to music and genuine connection with their fans have made them a standout act in the industry.
Temple
February 4 - Santa Fe Jazz Jam at Treno Pizzeria & Taproom, 1-3pm. The Santa Fe Jazz Jam brings an opportunity for middle school, high school, and college instrumentalists and singers to jam on stage with a professional jazz rhythm section! This is a FREE event.
February 14 - Valentine's Day at Corks & Barrels Bar, 5-10pm. Come enjoy Austin & Aubree's special Valentine's cocktails!
February 17 - African American Arts & History Showcase at Frank W. Mayborn Civic & Convention Center, 12-5pm. Come experience the vibrant African American culture through an aweinspiring showcase of art and history - an event you don't want to miss!
March 3 - Santa Fe Jazz Jam at Treno Pizzeria & Taproom, 1-3pm. The Santa Fe Jazz Jam brings an opportunity for middle school, high school, and college instrumentalists and singers to jam on stage with a professional jazz rhythm section! This is a FREE event.
March 9 - Terry McBride at the Cultural Activities Center, 5:30pm. Born and raised in Texas, Terry
grew up in Lampasas, a small ranching community about seventy miles northwest of Austin. After receiving a guitar for his ninth birthday from his father it wasn’t long before Terry was playing in local bands and spending summers on the road with his dad, the late Dale McBride, who was a recording artist with several Billboard charted singles in the late 70’s. Terry’s group, McBride & The Ride, recorded four albums for MCA, racking up several top five singles over the next few years, including “Sacred Ground” a #1 single in 1992. McBride also received two million airplay awards for his writing credits for “Just One Night” and “Going Out of My Mind.” McBride & The Ride received nominations from CMA and ACM for vocal group of the year before eventually disbanding in 1995. Terry then began to focus most of his attention on songwriting, and through the years since has had songs cut by other artist such as Garth Brooks, George Strait, Reba McEntire, Ronnie Dunn, Kix Brooks, Alan Jackson, Trace Adkins, Easton Corbin, Kenny Rogers, John Anderson, Chase Bryant, Josh Dorr, Clare Dunn, Ricky Van Shelton, Jack Ingram, George Ducas, David Ball, Casey James, Wade Hayes, Gretchen Wilson, Andy Griggs, Jedd Hughes, Jason Michael Carroll, James Otto, Gord Bamford, Emerson Drive and Rosie Flores.
March 23 - Aubrey Logan at the Temple College Jazz Festival, 1901 E Veterans Memorial Blvd, 1pm. Aubrey Logan, guest clinician and performer at the Temple College Jazz Festival. A singer, trombone player, and songwriter, her body of work is underscored by the integrity of a performer who is able to stretch herself emotionally across a musical landscape that defies description. Complex and still retaining the intimacy of stories that are both personal and inspiring, Aubrey is able to bring a wealth of experience to her songwriting that touches the deepest part of the human experience. Recognized on the global stage as a performer who can deliver in the most informal of settings and then to huge festival audiences, her work is praised as being accessible, fresh, and dynamic. It shines a light on an art form that can at times appear exclusive and hard to connect with. Aubrey certainly flips that narrative on its head and allows the music to bask in the sunlight; introducing new generations of listeners to her world of sophisticated songs. Sassy, undeniably gifted, and with a talent to burn, Aubrey Logan is that jazz artist that you need in your life.
April 8 - 2024 Eclipse Fest at The Robinson Family Farm, 9am-5pm. DON'T WAIT, BUY NOW FOR APRIL’S ECLIPSE FEST!!! TICKETS ARE LIMITED QUANTITY AND WILL BE SOLD OUT QUICKLY!!! Mark your calendars for an unforgettable celestial experience! On April 8th,
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2024, join us at The Robinson Family Farm for our Eclipse Fest – a day filled with wonder, excitement, and the sheer beauty of a total solar eclipse! From 9 am to 5 pm, immerse yourself in this extraordinary cosmic event while enjoying a myriad of festivities. Get ready to groove to live music filling the air, as talented musicians take center stage and add a melodic soundtrack to the celestial symphony. Savor cold, refreshing beer and wine from local breweries and wineries, allowing you to toast to this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. Indulge your taste buds at our enticing lineup of food trucks, serving an array of delicious culinary delights that will tantalize even the pickiest eaters. From savory treats to sweet temptations, there's something for everyone to enjoy. We've got you covered when it comes to entertainment for all ages! Engage in fun-filled activities designed to captivate both kids and adults alike there won't be a moment of boredom throughout the day! And here's the best part – The Robinson Family Farm offers the perfect location out in the peaceful countryside, away from the chaos and noise of the city. Our farm offers an unobscured view of the eclipse in the line of totality, ensuring an unrivaled experience that you'll cherish for years to come. But that's not all! By attending our Eclipse Fest, you're not only treating yourself to an incredible adventure but also supporting a heartfelt cause. A portion of the proceeds from this event will go toward our local Ronald McDonald House, providing assistance and comfort to families in need. Don't miss out on this extraordinary event of epic proportions! Join us at The Robinson Family Farm on April 8th, 2024, and witness the magic of a total solar eclipse. Let's come together for a day of joy, celebration, and giving back to our community. See you there!
April 8 - 2024 Solar Eclipse Viewing at Moose and Goose Winery, 11am-4pm. Come join us at the Moose & Goose Winery for an unforgettable experience of the 2024 Solar Eclipse! Grab your friends, family, and a bottle of our finest wine as we gather to witness this celestial spectacle. Our winery provides the perfect setting to relax, sip on delicious wines, and Marvel at the wonders of the universe. Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to witness the magic of a solar eclipse in person. Mark your calendars and be prepared to be awestruck!
Waco
February 1 - Thirsty Thursday at Pivovar, 11am9pm. Thirsty Thursday just got even better with Pivovar’s all-day happy hour. Enjoy your favorite beers for $5.99, refreshing wells for $3, and 50% off wine from 11 am to 9 pm.
February 4 - Baylor Opera Theatre: Luisa Fer-
nanda at Hooper-Schaefer Fine Arts Center, 3-430pm. Baylor Opera Theatre presents Luisa Fernanda. Students receive recital credit.
February 6 - Waco Social Networking Happy Hour at Hotel 1928, 4:30-6:30pm. Join us at the Hotel 1928, newly renovated by Chip & Joanna Gaines, for an ACHECTx Social Networking event in Waco. Don’t miss this opportunity to congregate with local healthcare leaders as we kick off 2024 together. Whether you are meeting new industry colleagues or reconnecting with old acquaintances, this will be a wonderful opportunity to gather together in this beautiful new hotel that you will not want to miss. Wine/cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served. We will be meeting in The Library & Boardroom.
February 9-11 - French Quarter Weekend at Camp Fimfo Waco, 11am. Celebrate Mardi Gras at Camp Fimfo Waco! DIY masks, a golf cart parade & live music are just a few of the fun events guests can expect!
February 10 - Year of the Dragon Lunar New Year Market at Waco Downtown Farmers Market, 9am-1pm. Hit up the Downtown Farmers Market for a special Lunar New Year Market! The Asian Leaders Network (ALN) is a local 501(c)(3) non-profit in Waco, Texas dedicated to fostering cultural diversity and promoting community engagement. ALN Waco’s mission is to build community amongst Asian and Asian Americans in the Greater Waco area to identify, support, and uplift Asian leaders in our community, and to connect Asian leaders to resources to elevate their influence in positive ways.
February 22 - Jake Scott at Common Grounds Waco, 7am-11pm. Come listen to pop music singer Jake Scott at Common Grounds this February. March 1 - Tow’rs at Common Grounds Waco, 8pm. A band from Flagstaff, Arizona. They tell stories through music.
March 9-10 - Walton Fest-Waco, TX at Tucker Hall, 10am. The cast from The Waltons are loading up the old truck and heading to Tucker Hall on March 9/10 to Waco, TX for a Saturday & Sunday Meet and Greet, a very special Saturday Night "The Mountain Remembers" Dinner, honoring all the actors that have gone too soon and a Sunday Breakfast. You’re gonna LOVE it! And now we are bringing in a whole lot of Waltons. A fun filled weekend for all. The Waltons original cast members scheduled to appear are: Eric Scott (Ben Walton), Leslie Winston (Cindy Walton), Kami Cotler (Elizabeth Walton), Mary McDonough (Erin Walton), Jon Walmsley (Jason Walton) and
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David Harper (Jim Bob Walton). Saturday Night the Mountain Remembers Dinner will take place at 7:00 pm. The dinner will feature fried chicken, Texas BBQ and all the fixins! You never know who will show up. Ticket price is $150! Limited tickets will be sold! A special breakfast with the cast will take place Sunday at 9:00 am. Ticket price is $100, and only limited tickets will be sold! We will host a cast meet and greet on Saturday 10-5 & Sunday 12-4. Ticket cost is just $10. The cast will be available for photos, autographs, and other merchandise for purchase. Such a fantastic setting. Meet & greet & again, tickets are limited! The weekend VIP Experience Package is limited to just 50 people! It includes the Meet & Greet on Saturday & Sunday, Dinner & Breakfast sitting directly at the table with cast members, the Sunday Morning family photo sessions & a souvenir swag bag. The Weekend VIP Experience Cost is $500. There will be a family photo session with the Walton Family in front of the Walton house backdrop at 11am on Sunday. The photo session will be with Ben, Cindy, Erin, Elizabeth, Jason & Jim Bob. AND of course, you and your party. Cost is $90! It will be printed out and put in a souvenir sleeve. Spots will be limited!
March 10 - Carden International Circus at Extraco Events Center, 1-5pm. Our Circus family cannot wait for you to plan a spectacular outing of family fun at our 2024 Spectacular NEW Show! We want to invite YOU to be our guest and revisit the magical memories of your childhood, while creating new ones with your own kids that will last a lifetime.
March 15 - Carson Jeffrey at The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill, 6pm. Singer-songwriter Carson Jeffrey is a full-time, authentic-to-the-core Cowboy and a part-time musician that Texans just can’t get enough of. Carson regularly sells out college bar mainstays like The Tap in College Station and The Blue Light in Lubbock. The 25-year-old, Texas A&M grad, will release his third album, Fair Weather Cowboy, on November 18, 2022. The tentrack record will give fans a deeper glimpse into this cowboy’s soul. He penned every song showcasing themes about growth, loneliness, and letting loose.
March 30 - Huser Brothers at The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill, 6pm. The Waco-born Brothers have been making waves in the independent music scene with their unique blend of soulful, rocking country, original tunes. Brothers were born and raised in Waco, Texas, right off the I-35 corridor between Dallas and Austin. The Brothers bring a high-energy, entertaining show you don’t want to miss. With some new music right around
the corner, Huser Brother Band is definitely an act you want to keep your eye on! You can expect to see big things in the near future!
April 7 - Sci-Fi Spectacular: Sun, Moon & Superstars at Waco Hall, 3pm. This star-studded concert will be full of music from your favorite sci-fi films. Emmy Award-winning journalist and film critic Gary Cogill returns to the WSO stage to share film insights behind the music. Guest conductor Alex Amsel is an orchestral and operatic conductor, as well as a music educator for students of all ages. He has worked with the Baltimore Symphony, Fort Worth Symphony, and Houston Grand Opera. With Waco being one of the few places in the country in the path of totality during the solar eclipse on April 8, this concert will generate excitement the day before. Hear music ranging from Star Wars and Star Trek to Interstellar and other sun and space-related pop music. Other special guests may be announced. All are welcome to come dressed as your favorite sci-fi character!
April 8 - Eclipse Over Texas Live from Waco at McLane Stadium Touchdown Alley, 8am-4pm. Purchase a General Admission ticket to celebrate the 2024 eclipse with us on the grounds of McLane Stadium in Waco, Texas! Eclipse Over Texas: Live from Waco includes presentations by astronomers and science educators, interactive activities, and safe guided viewing of the Sun as it progresses through the eclipse. Each ticket comes with a pair of ISO-certified solar glasses, available upon entry on April 8, 2024. Premium parking at McLane Stadium is sold separately. All Ticket Purchases are Non-Refundable.
April 13 - The National Parks at Waco Hippodrome Theatre, 9am-11pm. The National Parks is an American indie folk band from Provo, Utah. The four-member band consists of Brady Parks (guitar and lead vocals), Sydney Macfarlane (keyboards and vocals), Cam Brannelly (drums), and Megan Taylor Parks (fiddle and vocals). Formed in 2013, their debut album, Young, reached #13 on the iTunes singer/songwriter chart upon its release. Since that time, the band has released two additional studio albums and has sold out shows in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles.
April 13 - WACO 100 Presents: Parker McCollum - Burn It Down Tour at McLane Stadium, 7:30pm. A mostly solitary songwriter prior to his entrée into Nashville, Parker has now written with some of country music’s finest. Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, and Liz Rose (a.k.a. The Love Junkies), David Lee Murphy, Brett James, and Ashley Gorley all contribute to Never Enough, along with Parker’s Texas peers Randy Rogers, Wade Bowen,
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and Ryan Beaver. The proof is in Parker’s chart history. He scored his first-ever No. 1 country hit with 2020’s “Pretty Heart,” his debut single. “To Be Loved by You” followed suit, also hitting No. 1. Now, he’s staring down a career-making single in “Burn It Down,” a moody, smoldering break-up song that equates a busted relationship to a house reduced to just ashes and smoke.
A little off the beaten path
February 24 - Granbury Jazz Fest 2024 at Dora Lee Langdon Center, Granbury, TX, 10am-9pm. Join us for the 3rd Annual Granbury Jazz Fest! Immerse yourself in the heart-thumping world of jazz, with over 15 talented bands spanning various genres. Enjoy our wide array of food trucks and vendors at all 3 stages. Don’t miss this celebration of music and culture in the historic downtown of Granbury, Texas!
March 8 - Dan & Shay at Dickies Arena, Fort Worth, TX, 7pm. Dan + Shay is an American country pop music duo composed of vocalists and songwriters Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney. They are signed to Warner Records Nashville and have released five albums, Where It All Began, Obsessed, Dan + Shay, Good Things and Bigger Houses. Of their nine singles, five have topped the Country Airplay chart and three have topped the Hot Country Songs chart. The duo have collaborated with Justin Bieber, Charlie Puth, Rascal Flatts, Lindsey Stirling, RaeLynn, and Kelly Clarkson. From 2019 to 2021, the duo won three consecutive Grammy Awards for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for the songs "Tequila", "Speechless", and "10,000 Hours" (with Justin Bieber).
April 12-24 - 41st Annual Bluebonnet Festival, Burnet, TX. The weekend is full of activities sure to please all ages. There’s something for everyone, such as live music, a carnival, food, races of all kinds, and lots and lots of shopping. You’re sure to find an activity or two everyone can enjoy. LIVE MUSIC IS ALWAYS AT THE HEART OF BLUEBONNET FESTIVAL. If you’re a music fan, then this year’s Bluebonnet Festival is just what you are looking for! We have a stellar line-up of local artists and performers, coupled with well-known Texas performers. The live music begins Friday evening and jams through Sunday afternoon. Friday and Saturday afternoon concerts are free. There is a $20 admission for Saturday night’s concert. For $5, you can even bring a cooler with your favorite drinks. (No glass allowed.)
April 20-21 - Two Step Inn at San Gabriel Park, Georgetown, TX. Two Step Inn features cameraready moments, multiple dance floors, plus dedicated artist, and festival merchandise areas. Em-
brace the honky tonk spirit with 35+ artists across four stages, featuring live music from country currents, country classics, and the country curious. Wet your whistle and fill up on delicious festival food, drinks, and more from the best that Central Texas has to offer.
May 11 - PBR Kid Rocks Rock N Roll Rodeo at AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX, 7:45pm. PBR, the world’s leading Western sports organization, is tying its premier bull riding event – the PBR World Finals: Unleash the Beast – to the unique rodeo event with entertainment curated by Kid Rock, who has sold more than 35 million albums and is leaning into the growing Western sports and lifestyle Market. The partnership aims to transform rodeo into a competitive team endeavor fans can better relate to within an amped-up rock and roll atmosphere – bringing more energy, fun and accessibility to rodeo events! The reimagined rodeo will feature a Team format, with six teams competing in bracket-style competition, featuring Kid Rock live in concert, playing all his hits and more. The all-star rodeo team competition and upbeat production will be patterned after the successful formula PBR brought to bull riding through the Camping World Team Series launched in 2022. Six teams, each led by a head coach who will make crucial game decisions, will go head-to-head in barrel racing, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, team roping, steer wrestling, and breakaway roping, a fast-growing rodeo discipline. The 2024 PBR World Finals: Unleash the Beast is coming to AT&T Stadium May 18 & 19, 2024. This year’s final is going to be bigger, badder, and bolder than ever with more bucking. Everything is on the line, and it all comes down to this! Opening Spring 2026 - The Baker Hotel and Spa in Granbury, TX. As a celebrated Mineral Wells landmark since 1929, The Baker Hotel and Spa will be historically renovated and restored over a three-year period, and will once again be known as a premier resort destination. The Baker Hotel Development Partners, LLC, and its affiliates — in conjunction with support from the city of Mineral Wells — will revive the 14-story Spanish Colonial Revival tower to feature a fully-renovated collection of 165 guest rooms and amenities — including a spa, convention, and business facilities, event ballrooms, restaurant, coffee shop, and retail options. The local mineral springs that once drew celebrities from around the world will be utilized again, along with modernized amenities adapted to the lifestyle of the modern-day guest. Blending historic architectural design with new technology, the hotel will offer expanded guest rooms and gracious public spaces to host weddings, special events, conventions, and the sojourning weekenders.
1854 Mercantile 32 Ace Hardware........................................................ 26 Aloha 27 AMA Graphics 63 Arrow ....................................................................... 60 Ashley's Landscaping & Services 26 Barbwire and Bougie Boutique 48 Bare Bones BBQ .................................................... 17 Bealka Eye Surgery ................................................. 8 Bullard Construction 24 Cobb Properties ................................................... 30 Coryell Health .... Inside Back Cover, Back Cover Cowboy Country Buildings 28 Cowgirls to Lace ................................................... 36 Davidson Chiropractic .......................................... 8 Evant Backhoe & Construction, LLC 24 Family Pet Clinic 20 Gatesville Chamber of Commerce ................ 44 Gatesville Civic Center 50 Gatesville Drug Co 13 Gypsy Greens Market ......................................... 14 Hamilton Central Perk 14 Hamilton Chamber of Commerce 39 Hamilton Floral & Gifts....................................... 48 Hamilton Healthcare System Inside Front Cover, 1, 9, 11 Hamilton Septic Co ............................................. 28 Hico Chamber of Commerce 44 Hillside Medical Lodge Cover, 4-7 Hitt Photography ................................................. 45 Hometown Floors ................................................ 32 Ideal Self Storage 36 I Do Events 48 Inn at Circle T ......................................................... 31 KCLW 900AM ............................................................ 3 Lazy VT Bar Ranch 20 Leaird’s Furniture 49 Lee HealthCare ........................................................ 8 M&W Ag Supply 29 Meadowbrook Gypsy Horses LLC 21 Melanie J Financial .............................................. 41 Nipa Truck 16 Nocked & Loaded 28 Pecan Creek Outfitters ....................................... 40 Robert's Radiator 28 Showbox 51 Sinyard Tire Shop ................................................. 24 Spur Nutrition 8 Storm’s Restaurant 19 Studebaker's Pizza & Ice Cream ...................... 16 Texas Best Buildings 20 Texas Station 37 The Feedmill .......................................................... 17 The Grain ................................................................ 15 The McCannic Shop 26 The Salty Senorita ............................................... 33 Tierra Homes ......................................................... 36 Tiffany's Bread Haven 19 Tom Lester II, auctioneer 20 Top Nails ................................................................. 48 Two 2 Tangle Hair Salon 43 Whitt Building Supply 25 Wiseman House ................................................... 19 Publisher Stephens Publishing production.hometowns@gmail.com 254-223-9200; 254-223-3990 Editor editor.hometowns@gmail.com Contributing Writer Andi Heintz Social Media Andi Heintz Nevaeh Stephens PR and Sales Liaision Kevin Gilmore Donna Wallace Photography Heather Hitt Office Admin Alexys Stephens office.hometowns@gmail.com Mina Stephens Elliana Stephens Advertising Please contact any of our associates if interested in being included in upcoming issues. At Our Hometowns we are committed to connecting communities through support and accessibility. Contract Rates Available Upon Request. Staff Ad Index
