February 2023

Hoopla

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Spotlighting North Central Texas Seniors

February 2023

Wanda Crossland A Legacy of Community Love Also inside: • Weatherford educator Bill Wright • Azle Senior Center Director Jackie Joy • Fort Worth volunteer Matt McEntire • A month’s worth of fun

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Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

50 Years Ago

FAIR USE

At the end of Elvis Presley’s residency at the Las Vegas Hilton, manager Colonel Tom Parker announced plans for a live NBC television special called “Aloha from Hawaii.”

Marty Pasetta, who had organized specials for Perry Como, Bing Crosby, Glen Campbell, and Don Ho, was chosen as producer. But Pasetta expressed his doubts to the network that Elvis could handle a hour-and-a-half special and asked Elvis to lose weight for the performance. Presley increased his practice of karate, consumed vitamins and protein drinks, and used weight-reduction pills. He lost 25 pounds in a month.

The date for the live concert was set for January 14, 1973.

Although it was meant to air live worldwide, the broadcast in the United States was postponed until April to avoid a conflict with Super Bowl VII. Presley asked his costume designer to create a patriotic jumpsuit. Although it was going to be viewed in foreign countries, he said, “I just want the suit to say America.” The white jumpsuit featured a bald eagle made with patterns of gold, blue and red gems on the chest and back. It featured 6,500 individual stones.

Presley and Parker split $900,000 paid by NBC (equivalent to over $6 million in 2023). Presley donated a portion of his proceeds to the Kui Lee Cancer Fund. Kui Lee, a singer-songwriter from Hawaii, died in 1966 of lymph gland cancer. The audience was asked to donate as well.

February 2023

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ELVISPRESLEY COLONELPARKER ALOHA SUSPICIOUSMINDS HOUNDDOG GEMSTONES JAILHOUSEROCK GRACELAND PRISCILLA LASVEGAS MEMPHISElvis Presley

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Word Find

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Hoopla P.O. Box 305, Weatherford, Tx 76086

817-894-1822

February 2023 Volume 7, Issue 2 © 2023 Hoopla. All rights reserved.

Hoopla, published monthly, serves Parker County, Hood County and western Tarrant County.

Subscribe at www.hooplamagazine.com.

February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

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Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

February 2023

Wanda Crossland’s Legacy of Love A story of one grandmother’s dedication to family & community

by Roger Enlow Hoopla Correspondent

other granddaughter, Brooke, teaches in the Round Rock school district.

Where did all the love go?

It didn’t take long for Wanda It’s a fair question in a world Crossland to know her destiny. that has seemingly gone cuckoo She was a junior high student when you see horrifying events when the school needed help in on the television news or bethe kindergarten class. Wanda wildering posts and videos on was the obvious choice. social media.

Mrs. Crossland’s late husBut the bond between cerband, Willie Crossland, was tain individuals ... for instance, also an admired Granbury edugrandmother and granddaugh- cator, best known for his years ter ... shines a ray of light in the as the high school principal. dark cavity of gloom.

The couple’s popularity was reGranbury’s Beth Martin warded with a school and road and her beloved grandmother, named in their honor.

Wanda Crossland, could star in When they retired they didn’t a sweet Hallmark movie. stop living. In fact, Martin said, “She’s the best,” Martin said. they may have been busier than “She always makes you feel like when they taught full time. the most important person in They volunteered at the hosthe room.” pital, participated in American That would be a task for a Cancer Society’s Relay for Life schoolteacher, but Mrs. Crossand taught Sunday school. Mrs. land, 91, distributed that trait in Crossland taught youngsters; her 30 years of teaching second Mr. Crossland taught the oldest grade at Granbury Elementary in the church. They joked that School (1961-91).

She loved all of her students unconditionally. Martin once taught school herself and asked Grandmother if she ever had a student she couldn’t connect with. “No,” promotion from Mr. Crossland’s was her simple reply. class was heaven.

Mrs. Crossland hails from a One of Mrs. Crossland’s forfamily of educators. Her father mer Sunday school students was superintendent of Hamilspotted her at a Granbury reston County schools. Her brother taurant recently. She told the tawas also a school superintenble she enjoyed Mrs. Crossland’s dent, and she had nieces who class so much that she refused taught in the classroom. Her promotion.

ROGER ENLOW | HOOPLA

Wanda Crossland, 91, is celebrated in her Hood County community for a lifetime of teaching, serving and loving.

“I can’t even imagine things we don’t know they’ve done,” Martin said.

For years Mrs. Crossland and her late friend, Aunita Norman, exercised most mornings by walking the streets of Granbury. They dressed in white so drivers could easily see them. Neighbors wished them a hearty “Good morning!” when they walked by.

Mrs. Crossland doesn’t walk as much these days, but she stays mentally active by playing word games such as Wordle, Words With Friends and Yahtzee. She’s in a group Wordle thread. “Ninety percent of the time she beats us,” Martin said.

She also watches television, but “she doesn’t watch fantasy,” Martin said. “If it couldn’t happen she’s not for it.”

‘She always makes you feel like the most important person in the room.’

Reality and television, however, is sometimes blurred because of her compassion. If someone is hurt in the movie – a girl, for example – Mrs. Crossland may ask, “Do you think that girl is okay?” Yes, Grandmother,” they answer. “In fact I think she’s making another movie.”

But she’s definitely “with it.”

“Her mind is as sharp as when she taught you in second grade,” Martin said.

Yes, I was among the many fortunate to have Mrs. Crossland. I can still remember us carrying our books and walking behind her in single file, marching from the old school to the sleek new elementary school that had air conditioning.

Meals from Grandmother are special. It’s true about being made with love. Martin would get calls from her grandmother

February 2023

asking if she had lunch plans.

“No? Then why don’t you come over?”

“Sometimes it was just a sandwich, but it was good because I didn’t have to make it,” Martin said with a smile.

Mrs. Crossland would have the family over for lunch after church, either meatloaf or roast. Martin can still picture bread rolls, covered with a towel, rising on top of the refrigerator.

She doesn’t cook much these days. She doesn’t have the stamina to stand that long.

A lost tradition, she writes sympathy and other pick-me-up cards and mails them. It’s those behind-the-scenes acts of kindness that make Mrs. Crossland such a joy. Such as when a lady at church needed rides for her appointments. Martin thinks her grandmother would say, “That’s what I’m here to do. Why would I tell her no?”

“She lives like Jesus. She puts everybody before herself, even people she doesn’t know.”

Christmas was special at the Crossland home. The Crosslands had only two grandchildren – Beth and her sister Brooke. “We got a lot of stuff,” Martin said, “and we could only open one present at a time. It

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

was an all-day affair.” Codes would be written on the presents. Crack the code for $5.

During the COVID pandemic Martin had to keep her distance. “I had to talk to her through the screen door,” she explained. “I could not stand it.”

Martin has fond memories of curling up in bed with her grandmother and getting slow, loving rubs on the side of her face. “She’d do it right now if I asked. She still kisses me on the mouth when she sees me.”

Martin has a friend with a different kind of grandmother.

The friend had gained some weight and her grandmother mentioned it one day. “Grandmother wouldn’t dream of saying that,” Martin said. “She looks at our hearts.”

A number of people check on Mrs. Crossland regularly, which Martin considers a testament to her sweet soul. One of the church deacons, Jerry East, is one of the faithful callers. He asked not long ago if there was anything she needed. “Well, yes,” Mrs. Crossland said. “My flower bed is a mess.” East was there in a jiffy.

“As far as I’m concerned she’s going to outlive all of us,” Martin said. “I can’t think of a world without her.”

COURTESY

Wanda and the late Willie Crossland both taught generations of children and have a school named in their honor.

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Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

February 2023

Watch out for tax season scams

It’s that time of year when we do our taxes — but it’s also the same time that tax scammers go to work. What scams should you watch for — and how can you avoid being victimized?

Sadly, the list of scams is pretty long, including demands for payment or requests for “additional information” pertaining to your tax refund, in which the sender asks for your Social Security number and other personal information. These scam emails can look official, often incorporating the IRS logo. You might also receive scam text messages containing bogus links claiming to be the IRS website or an online “tool” that can help process your refund faster. But keep these points in mind: The IRS generally won’t contact you by phone and won’t contact you by email, text messages or social media channels to ask for personal or financial information.

The IRS begins most correspon-

dence to taxpayers through mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service.

The IRS won’t call to demand you make an immediate payment through a prepaid debit card or wire transfer. If you owe taxes, the IRS generally will mail you a bill. And the IRS won’t threaten to bring in the police or another law enforcement group to arrest you for not paying your taxes.

In general, be extremely skeptical about any type of communication purporting to be from the IRS that sounds bullying or overinquisitive — and certainly don’t give out any personal or financial information. But these fake messages aren’t the only tax-season scams out there. You might even receive a direct deposit from what appears to be the U.S. Treasury Department — but if you weren’t expecting it, something’s likely not

right. This payment could be a sign that a fraudulent tax return

by Mary H. McDow, Edward Jones Adviser was filed in your name, and it might be followed by a communication from a supposed IRS agent requesting this overpayment be sent to them. If this happens to you, you’ll want to contact the IRS right away, and you could also ask your bank to return the deposit to the government.

Other scams don’t claim to originate directly from the IRS, as scammers pretend to be from real or imaginary tax organizations.

For example, you could get a message from the Taxpayer Advocate Service, an independent organization within the IRS, but this agency won’t contact you without a legitimate reason. Or you could receive a message from the nonexistent “Bureau of Tax Enforcement.” Your best bet is to delete

Money Matters

these messages immediately or send them to your spam folder.

Not all tax season scams originate from fraudulent IRS representatives or fake agencies. You also need to be careful about whom you hire to prepare your taxes. If possible, get a recommendation from a trusted friend or family member. And keep in mind that a legitimate tax preparer must have a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number and must sign your tax return.

Scammers are, unfortunately, here to stay — but remaining vigilant can stop them from causing problems for you in this tax season and all the ones in the future.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Mary H. McDow, 102 Houston Ave. Suite 203, 817-598-0882. Member SPIC

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(Puzzle solution is on P. 30)

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Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

February 2023

A Pattern of Compassion

CYNTHIA HENRY | HOOPLA

Azle Senior Center Director Jackie Joy next to a quilt made by some of the first members of the center when it opened in 1986.

All roads have led Jackie Joy to the Azle Senior Center

by Cynthia Henry Hoopla Publisher Although Jackie Joy could spend her days playing dominoes and enjoying a hot meal with her friends at the senior center, she has chosen to take on a bigger role — one that she’s trained for her entire life.

The 71-year-old Azle native has been the director of the Azle Senior Center for seven years, but she’s worked with seniors throughout her life in the healthcare field, assisted living, transportation and even in ministry.

Working with seniors brings Jackie a great amount of joy. Why? “Probably because I am one,” she laughed. “I find seniors fascinating.”

And so she’s at the senior center five days a week, making sure the buildings are open and clean, scheduling entertainment and seeing to it that dozens of seniors get a hot nutritious meal five days a week.

“The adult activity center provides fun, food and fellowship for people 60 and older, but we do reach beyond that,” she said.

In fact, when Jackie first came to the center, it was to sign up as a member. Her husband, who is slightly younger, wasn’t yet 60. But spouses of those who are 60 also qualify for the meal program, as well as handicapped individuals who may be liv-

ing with a qualified senior.

“The meals are good and they’re very nutritious,” she said, “and the people just really like them.”

The senior center itself is an arm of the city. In fact, the center is located in the B.J. Clark Community Center and City Annex buildings at 601 Southeast Parkway. The city’s parks and recreation department maintains the building. Meals On Wheels of Tarrant County is contracted to manage the center and deliver hot meals to the center, area shut-ins and also younger individuals who qualify due to their health and income. All of the meals are compliant to the Older American Act and arrive hot and pre-plated.

In addition to the dining area, the center features a large meeting room, where members can partake in exercise classes or Bible study. Live bands play every Monday. AARP offers a safe drivers class in this space every other month. An adjacent building on the property offers space for seniors to play bridge, dominoes — whatever strikes their fancy. A senior was practicing violin with an instructor in one room the day we explored the facility.

The center keeps Jackie busy, but she still finds time to serve the community in other ways. She and her husband recently graduated from the Azle Citizen Police Academy

and joined their V.I.PS. program.

Jackie recalled a recent Fourth of July celebration when several kids became separated from their parents. Jackie was handing out glow sticks when two girls approached her looking for help.

“The littlest girl was just terrified,” said Jackie.

She used the skills she’d spent years honing as a children’s ministries director to comfort the girls until the parents were located.

Jackie, who still lives at the old homestead where she was raised by her parents, graduated from Azle High School in 1970. It was a few years after that when she visited her friend’s church and was so moved by the service that she became a Christian.

“It was a life-changing experience that led me to going to Bible college and getting into missions work, and I have been involved in some kind of ministry ever since,” she said. “Life has been an up and down road, but I’ve stayed with it. It’s been an awesome walk.”

It was at Southwestern Assembly of God University where she met the love of her life, Steve.

“When I met him, I looked at him and I thought he’s going to grow up to be a fine man of God someday. I remember it so clearly,” she said.

February 2023

The two didn’t date but attended classes together, worked in the cafeteria, and were both in the missions club.

Steve graduated from college earlier and moved away. Jackie continued studying and, after graduation, she eventually moved to New Mexico to work in children’s ministries.

She saw in the alumni paper that he was in El Paso. It was just a short drive, so she visited.

“As soon as I walked into his office and saw him, he had changed physically so much, but when he smiled, I recognized those dimples,” she said smiling. “He has these gorgeous dimples! I knew right then God was going to do something. It scared me to death. I had gotten to a place in my life where I didn’t wanna get married.”

Still the two found themselves writing back and forth for the next year and a half. She recalled vividly her reaction to the first letter he signed with “love.” She says she spent a lot of time praying about the situation, and eventually made the decision to move to El Paso, where they could be closer.

They dated another year and a half before marrying.

Jackie and her husband moved back to Azle in 2002, where she accepted a children’s ministry director position at First Assembly of God. She’s also worked in women’s ministries, youth ministries and senior ministries.

“Between my husband and I, we’ve covered it all—from the cradle to the grave.”

Jackie and her husband are now members of The Abbey Church in Fort Worth, where they are on the prayer team and assist with guest services, among other tasks.

Despite her strong faith, Jackie doesn’t push her beliefs on those at the senior center.

“But if they need prayer, they know where to come,” she said.

And her faith has often

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

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AARETIREMENT ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY SENIORAND LIVING COMMUNITY

CYNTHIA HENRY | HOOPLA

Jackie and Sue Warren, who was volunteer director at the Azle Senior Center for 15 years.

She still comes to the center regularly.

e h m o o m c e l h e m o o e m c l e......

W e W

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February 2023

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February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

11

The luck

(and hard work)

of the Irish

COURTESY

COURTESY

Matt McEntire, a longtime business owner in Fort Worth, delivers hot meals to seniors through Meals on Wheels.

Businessman Matt McEntire gives back to community

by John English Hoopla Correspondent When Matt McEntire first immigrated to the United States in 1990, he had $700 to his name.

The Longford, Ireland native had lived in many different countries throughout the world, including France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Netherlands, Germany, Canada and the United Kingdom, but said America had always intrigued him for two very specific reasons.

“The opportunities you have here are what make this country great,” McEntire said. “They’re just unbelievable. And then the people who have given me support down through the years—you just don’t find that as much in other places.”

A legend among the local pub and tavern patrons along 7th Street and into Downtown Fort Worth for more than three de-

cades, the Irishman is known for his warm personality, friendly demeanor and remarkable work ethic.

McEntire, 71, started a job as a roofer when he first arrived in the United States more than 30 years ago and eventually saved enough to open his first pub, the Shamrock Tavern.

The Shamrock originally operated as a beer joint, with no wine or liquor sales, and McEntire ran it entirely by himself from 10 a.m. until midnight, Monday-Saturday.

But working 14-hour days never bothered him.

“I enjoyed working the long hours, especially meeting and talking to customers,” McEntire said.

Eventually, he was able to open a few more pubs and hire bartenders and servers to staff them.

McEntire shared an amusing anecdote about a customer who claimed to under-

stand why he was so successful with his venture.

“A guy told me that the only reason I have done so well with the bars is because of the all the Irish people here,” McEntire laughed. “I said, ‘There are hardly any Irish people at all.’”

McEntire still owns and rents out Poag Mahones Irish Pub, the Mad Hatter Pub and the Corner Taproom, but is devoting much more of his time to charity work these days, some of which he has been doing since the last century.

The Fort Worth man has delivered for Meals on Wheels for 25 years, volunteers with the Humane Society of Fort Worth and Pet Smart, and drives for Road to Recovery, an organization affiliated with the American Cancer Society that provides rides to medical appointments for cancer patients who have transportation issues.

(Continued on next page)

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Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

(Continued from previous page) McEntire said Unfortunately, the reason he does his first tenant was these things is quite a hoarder who left simple. the house so messy it “When you come required 65 garbage to this country and bags to clean up. you’re very successMcEntire tried to ful, I think the most take the whole episode important thing is in stride. that you give back,” “I just said to myMatt McEntire self, ‘What the heck McEntire said. can you do?’” McEntire said.

Perhaps the only thing more “You just have to move on.” important for McEntire is his One place from which McEnfaith. tire will never move on is his The Longford native attends adopted country, as the IrishMass weekly, gives generously to church-related charities American has found his home and causes and personifies the and has no desire to live anywhere else.

Golden Rule of do unto others.

“The way that people treat “I think that if you don’t have you is such an important faith, you’ve got nothing at all,” thing,” McEntire said. “AmeriMcEntire said. “That’s what I cans provide a great example of believe.” how people should treat each McEntire is now in the real other.” estate business, and has acquired his first rental property.

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February 2023

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February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

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Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

Handmade treasure Patsy Chamberlain of Granbury was excited to show off a recent retreat quilt she made at Patti’s Last Resort Retreat Center. She said the colors and the class offered a great challenge. Patsy, a homemaker, has been quilting for 8-10 years. In addition to quilting, Patsy also enjoys beading and knitting. Share your handmade treasures by emailing photos to seniors@hooplamagazine.com.

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February 2023

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February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

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Get Up & Go Another full month of fun curated especially for North Central Texas seniors Generation Gap Band, seniors join musical forces with homeschool student musicians, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, Lake Worth Senior Center, 7005 Charbonneau, Lake Worth, 1:30 p.m. Free event. Call 817-237-3281 Free Line Dance Lessons, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, Billy Bob’s Texas, 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, 7 p.m. Free with admission.

Hood County Senior Center Dances, featuring music by country/western bands every Thursday night, Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23, Hood County Senior Center, 501 E. Moore St. Granbury, 7 p.m. $5 per person.

Beginner Line Dancing, Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23, Lake Worth Senior Center, 7005 Charbonneau, Lake Worth, 1:30 p.m. Free classes. Call 817-2373281.

Chair Yoga, Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23, Lake Worth Senior Center, 7005 Charbonneau, Lake Worth, Noon, Free classes. Call 817-237-3281.

Springtown Senior Center Dances, country/western bands every Thursday and Saturday night. Feb. 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, Springtown Senior Activity Center, 1070 N. Main Street, Springtown, 7 to 10 p.m. Bands and unanticipated closures listed on Facebook. $5 admission per person.

Happy Hour at the Kimbell Art Museum, live entertainment, Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23, Kimbell Art Museum, Kahn Building (Cafe), 3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, 5 to 7 p.m. Free admission. Snacks and beverages available for purchase.

Bluebonnet Quilting Bee, Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23, Weatherford Senior Center, 1220 Holland Lake Drive, Weatherford, 10 a.m.

Gardening Club, Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23, Weatherford Senior Center, 1220 Holland Lake Drive, Weatherford, 9 a.m.

Walking Club, Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23, Weatherford Senior Center, 1220 Holland Lake Drive, Weatherford, 8:30 a.m.

Karaoke, Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23, Brock’s Food and Drink, 4021 Acton Highway, Granbury, 7:30 to 11 p.m.

Fashion Week Runway Show VIP Experience, local retailers, stylists collaborate for show, plus shopping opportunity, beverages and hors d’oeuvres, Feb. 3, Crazy Water Hotel, Mineral Wells 7 p.m. Free admission but VIP tickets availble for $20 at mwfashionweekvip.rsvpify.com Gary Morris in concert, Feb. 3, Granbury Live on the Granbury Square, 7:30 p.m. Call (800) 3409703 for tickets.

Intermediate Line Dancing, Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, Lake Worth Senior Center, 7005 Charbonneau, Lake Worth, 1:00 p.m. Free classes. Call 817-237-3281.

Tai Chi Class for Seniors, Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, Saginaw Senior Center, 633 W. McLeoy Blvd. Saginaw, 9:30 a.m. Free classes.

Friends of the Benbrook Library Booksale, Feb. 3-4, Benbrook Public Library, 1065 Mercedes St. Benbrook, Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday noon to 4 p.m.

Free Admission Friday at the Modern, with special programming, Feb. 3, Modern Museum of Art, 3200 Darnell Street, Fort Worth. Free admission.

Weatherford First Monday, one of the oldest open-aired markets in Texas, Feb. 3-5, Heritage Park on Santa Fe Drive, Weatherford, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dog Days at the Garden, hydration stations available throughout the garden, Feb. 4-5, Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd. Fort Worth, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission plus $5 per dog. Event runs through Sunday.

Bird Walk, wear appropriate clothing and shoes, Feb. 4, Acton Nature Center, 6500 Smoky Hill Ct. Granbury, 7 a.m. Free.

Gospel Sunday Brunch, al fresco and indoor dining, bocco ball courts, Feb. 5, Gardens of Gemelle, 4400 White Settlement Road, Fort Worth, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Craft Night (for adults) - Granbury, Feb. 7, Hood County Library, 222 N. Travis St. Granbury, 6-7 p.m. Supplies provided.

Craft Night (for adults) - Weatherford, Feb. 7, Weatherford Public Library, 1014 Charles Street, Weatherford, 6-7 p.m. Supplies provided.

Knitty Gritty Knitting and Crochet Group, for all ages, no experience necessary, Feb. 7, 14,

16

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

21, 28, White Settlement Public Library, 8215 White Settlement Road, White Settlement, 3 to 4 p.m. Bring your own yarn and knitting needles or crochet hook.

Line Dancing, beginners are welcome, Feb. 8, 22, Hood County Senior Center, 501 W. Moore St. Granbury, 1 p.m. Free.

Second Thursdays at Amon Carter Museum, featuring cocktails, creativity and conversation, Feb. 9, Amon Carter Museum, 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd. 5 to 8 p.m. Free event with reservations required. Call (817) 989-5013.

Second Thursday Bookclub, discussing “The Henna Artist” by Alka Joshi, Feb. 9, Mary Lou Reddick Public Library, 7005 Charbonneau, Lake Worth, noon.

Spring Creek Musical featuring live music, Feb. 10, Spring Creek Tabernacle, 104 Spring Creek Road, Weatherford, 6 p.m. Free admission.

Outdoor venue -- dress accordingly.

“Live as if you were to die tomorrow.

Learn as if you were to live forever.”

Mahatma Gandhi JK’s Event Center, 3401 Altamesa Blvd. Suite #156, Fort Worth, Noon to 4 p.m.

High Tea & Fashion Show benefitting Ranch Hands Rescue and First Refuge Ministries, High tea, brunch, runway show, vendors, purse and vacation auction, designer bag raffle, surprise bag raffle, guest speaker and entertainment,, Feb. 11, 3300 Championship Parkway, Fort Worth, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. To purchase tickets, visit www.cbmai.net

Sweetheart Dinner with live music by Joy’s Way, Feb. 10, Lake Worth Senior Center, 7005 Charbonneau, Lake Worth, 5 to 7 p.m. RSVP required. Call 817-237-3281.

Girls Night Out on Granbury Square, includes live entertainment, dining, shopping and door prizes, Feb. 11, Granbury Square, 3 to 7 p.m. Ask for punch card for a chance to win a $500 shopping spree.

Craft Club (for adults) - White Settlement, adults can make a seasonal craft and take it home, Feb. 10, White Settlement Public Library, 8215 White Settlement Road, White Settlement, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. All materials provided. Free class.

Lola’s Local Farmers Market featuring 30+ locally-grown and produced vendors, live music, bar bites and food trucks, pet friendly, Feb. 12, 2000 W. Berry Street, Fort Worth, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission.

Experimental Aircraft Association, Pancake breakfast at 8:30 a.m. Feb. 11, Pecan Plantation Airport, 9600 Airpark Dr. Granbury, 10 a.m.

Valentine’s Day Sip n’ Shop, music, shopping, food, fun, complimentary wine, Feb. 11,

February 2023

Lake Granbury Art Association, Feb. 13, Shanley House Gallery, 224 N. Travis St. Granbury, 6 p.m.

Granbury Knitting Guild, beginners welcome, Feb. 14, First Presbyterian Church, 303 Bridge St. Granbury, 9:30 a.m.

Scratchboard Art, a workshop by the Pecan Plantation Art Guild with artist Kerian Massey, Feb. 14, Pecan Plantation VFD/EMS, 9518 Monticello Drive, Granbury, 1 p.m. $40 class includes all supplies.

North Fort Worth Book Club discusses “Andalon Legacy” by T.B. Phillips, Feb. 16, World Blend, 5410 Basswood Blvd. Fort Worth, 6 to 8 p.m.

Artful Moments for Dementia Patients and Caregivers, exploration of Amon Carter museum exhibits, hands-on activities, Feb. 16, Amon Carter Museum, 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd. 1:30 to 3 p.m. Register online at cartermuseum.org or call 817-989-5013.

Clay Walker in concert, Feb. 17, Billy Bob’s Texas, 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, 10 p.m. Call (817) 624-7117 for tickets.

Great Backyard Bird Count, participate in an inventory of Acton Nature Center’s feathered friends, breakfast at 7, Feb. 18-19, Acton Nature Center of Hood County, 6430 Smoky Hill Court, Acton, 7 to 10 a.m. Bring your binoculars. On the 18th, Dr. Billy Teels will give a presentation at 10 a.m. on the effects climate change has on bird distribution.

Lola’s Rock ’n’ Roll Rummage Sale, Fort Worth’s largest running outdoor monthly market featuring artists, creators and collectors, plus music and food, Feb. 19, 2000 W. Berry Street, Fort Worth, noon to 5 p.m. Free admission.

Health and Fitness Expo, includes vendors, health and fitness professionals, healthy snacks and more, Feb. 19, Will Rogers Memorial Center, 3401 W. Lancaster Avenue, Fort Worth, 10 a.m.

Tickets $12-$20. $5 off admission with Covid vaccination card.

Mineral Wells Senior Center Dance, featuring the music of The Lonesome Fugitive, Feb. 19, 102 N.W. 6th Ave. Mineral Wells, 7 p.m. $5 admission includes snacks and drinks.

Parker County Pickers, a family-friendly jam session with indoor and outdoor seating, Feb. 19, Casual Fridays, 10238 FM 1886, Azle, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

February Showcase, local musicians, casual dining, Feb. 19, Shep’s, 202 Fort Worth Highway, Weatherford, 1 to 4 p.m.

Granbury Quilting Guild, Feb. 20, United Cooperative Services Community Room, 320 Fall Creek Hwy. Granbury, 6 p.m.

Saginaw Senior Center Field Trip to Makerspace Lab in Arlington. Learn how to use 3D printers and Circuit machines. Free transportation by Sixty & Better, Feb. 21. Limited space.

Sign up in person before Feb. 13 at the Saginaw Senior Center, located at 633 W. McLeoy Blvd. in Saginaw, for a chance to go.

Book Club - Azle, discussing “Beartown”

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February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

17

by Frederik Backman, Feb. 21, Azle Memorial Library, 333 W. Main Street, Azle, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Request this month’s title at the reference desk (while supplies last).

Book Club - Weatherford, discussing “Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman, Feb. 21, Weatherford Public Library, 1014 Charles St. Weatherford, 6 to 7 p.m. Request this month’s title at the reference desk (while supplies last).

Blazin’ Paddles Pickleball, 50+ tournaments, Feb. 23-24, Southern Oaks Golf & Tennis Club, 13765 Southern Oaks Dr. Burleson, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. No membership required. Go to USSeniorPickleball.com to register.

Mineral Wells Senior Center Dance featuring the music of Michael Cote and Bryan Daniel, Feb. 24, 102 N.W. 6th Ave. Mineral Wells, 7 p.m. $5 admission includes snacks and drinks.

The Rajun Cajuns, three Louisiana singer/ songwriters on stage, Feb. 25, Spring Creek Tabernacle, 6 p.m. Free event. Tips appreciated.

February Plant Swap, hosted by Fort Worth Plant Peeps, includes trades, vendors, raffle, art, friendship and community, Feb. 25, T&P Tavern, 221 W. Lancaster Avenue, #1000, Fort Worth, 4 to 8 p.m. Park in the back of building.

Granbury Jazz Fest, 15 bands, 3 stages, Feb. 25, Hewlett Park, 650 W. Pearl St. Granbury, 11 a.m. Free event.

Art in the Vines featuring live music, wine, food and art vendors, Feb. 26, Pemberton Cellars Winery, 3500 Lipan Highway, Granbury, Noon to 4 p.m. Free event.

Granbury Writers’ Bloc, for writers, authors and those who love the craft of writing, Feb. 27, The Cove at Waterview, 101 Watermark Blvd.

Granbury, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Rotary Pancake Supper, all you can eat pancakes, bacon, sausage, coffee, milk, benefits

scholarship program, Feb. 28, Weatherford High School cafeteria, 2121 Bethel Road, Weatherford, 5 to 7:30 p.m. $8 at the door. Raffle tickets $5 for 6.

Wells, noon to 5 p.m.

Stamp Club, includes buy/trade time before and after meeting, Feb. 28, Bentwater Activity Center, 1800 W Emerald Ct. Granbury, 7 p.m.

Gate opens at 6.

Granbury Founders Day Jubilee and Cookoff, March 17-19, Granbury Square, Stay tuned for details.

Senior Self Defense Class, for all seniors, regardless of mobility limitations, Feb. 28, 12:30 p.m. Lake Worth Senior Center, 7005 Charbonneau Road, Lake Worth, For information, call (817) 237-3281.

Book Club - Granbury, discussing “If You Ask Me” by Libby Hubscher, Feb. 28, Hood County Library, 222 N. Travis St. Granbury, 6 to 7 p.m.

Get book deets.

Mark your calendars for these events coming in March...

Chalk It Up Contest invites chalk artists of all ages, March 4, 7005 Charbonneau Street, Lake Worth, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Smokin’ Hot Barbeque Cook Off & Bluegrass Festival, March 4, Oak Avenue in Mineral

Paddyfest and Parade, March 16, Granbury Square, 6 to 9 p.m.

Grow at Clark Gardens includes a vendor market, bbq cookout, educational stations and live music, March 25, Clark Gardens, 567 Maddux Road, Weatherford, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Weatherford Music Festival includes food vendors, family fun and lots of music, March 2526, Heritage Park, 317 Santa Fe Dr., Weatherford.

All day, both days.

VINO-Palooza Wine & Music Festival offers tastings from more than 20 wineries and live music. Stay tuned for details.

Dancing in the Streets: The Music of Mowtown, March 3-5, Bass Performance Hall, 525 Commerce Street, Fort Worth. For ticket information, call 817-212-4280.

Spring 2023 YardSmart Conference, local experts and learn about best practices of efficient landscapes and much more, Fort Worth Botanic Gardens, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth. For information, visit fwbg.org.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT

To submit events for consideration, email seniors@ hooplamagazine.com or call 817-894-1822.

18

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

The

Wright Path

February 2023

COURTESY

Bill Wright with children (from left) Lana, Lynda and Adrian.

At left, Bill snuggles with great-grandson Maddox.

Lauded educator started career as a teenage bus driver

By Cindy Thomas-Buscher Special from Parker County Retired School Personnel Association Sam Houston Elementary School in Weatherford was built in 1980. In 1999, it was renamed Bill W. Wright Elementary School. Bill W. Wright was the former principal of Sam Houston Elementary School for 20 years. He was known as an outstanding educator and community member. I wanted to know the rest of the story.

When I sat down with Mr. Wright, I knew he was revered by former students, faculty members, friends, and family. We both are members of the Parker County Retired School Personnel group that meets the first Tuesday of every month. His daughter, Lynda, is president of our local chapter. His other daughter, Lana, is in choir with me.

I was introduced to him at a meeting, but I knew very little about him. He quickly put me at ease when I stated I had never been on the other side of an interview with a

principal, and he laughed.

College, he took a course taught by ElizaMr. Wright was part of a farming family. beth Childress. She influenced him to He said he loved to work the land and want- become a teacher. He went on to earn a ed to continue farming when he graduated bachelor’s degree in secondary education from school. His parents told him no. They at Texas Wesleyan University. His maswanted him to go to college ter’s degree in elementary after high school. and school administration He said he was surprised was earned at Texas Chrisat their answer but did as tian University. In between they asked. School was semesters he met the love different in Parker County of his life, Mary. They marwhen Mr. Wright attended. ried the following year. They He was a school bus driver were married 70 years. from age 14 to 18. I asked They moved to Weatherhim if the rowdiness of the ford in 1951 after he received bus riders was a deterrent a teaching job. They immeto becoming a teacher. He diately joined North Side said, “No, farm kids were Baptist Church where Mary COURTESY happy to get off the farm.” was quite active. Mary had Mary and Bill Wright He graduated high school graduated from Cozzen’s at age 16 and entered Business College, so she Weatherford Business School at Weatherworked at Merchants and Farmers State ford College.

Bank. Later, she would attend Weatherford While he was attending Weatherford College and serve as secretary at T.W. Stan-

February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

ley Elementary, the administration buildvery fond memories of that time. ing, and Central Elementary. He taught On a lighter note, his girls told the story of the family playing baseball, using magasecondary school for two and a half years, then became a teacher/principal. He was a zines for bases. They recalled, “Dad hit principal for 46 years. the ball hard and took off running. As he He had a total of 52 touched 2nd base, the Betyears in education. ter Homes and Gardens During his years of magazine started sliding. teaching and serving as We watched the magazine principal, he had little time for anything else.

He was busy helping his wife, Mary, to raise three children: Lynda, Lana, and Adrian. He spent his weekends doing yard work, washing cars, and spending time with his family. His daughters fly in one direction, and he said, “His hobby was went flying in the opposite school. He loved being a direction. What a game!” teacher and principal and Yardwork is still one of COURTESY always said he felt he had his favorite pastimes, as he Bill Wright, 1960s been called to be an eduloves getting his hands in cator.” the soil, a carryover from He could repair anything that needed his days on his family’s farm. His family fixing and was a very good carpenter. Acis his very important to him. They often cording to his daughters, Lana and Lynda, spend time together – and they still have a lot of fun. he built a very elaborate yard decoration for Christmas one year, and they used it for He and his wife had a very strong faith years. He had installed a motor that moved and always made sure their family were the parts and turned candles around. They in church every Sunday and Wednesday night. The kids knew where they would be said it was fantastic. He also decided to every Sunday. Each Sunday after church, overhaul an old Dodge pickup. They have

19

it was roast, potatoes, carrots and all the trimmings for lunch.

He has been invited and attended class reunions of former students. When he retired, he had taught three generations of some of the same families. Had he stayed one more year, he would have taught four.

He was honored to be a part of serving these families throughout the years. Students still remember him when they see him out in the community. He can still tell you where students lived when they attended T.W. Stanley Elementary and Sam Houston Elementary, how many siblings were in the family, and where the parents worked.

I asked him what he feels is the greatest issue facing educators today.

“Today, they dump everything on teachers,” he said. “They are expected to teach morals, make sure their students are catching up in all areas of education they missed during COVID, tutor their students, and meet the state guidelines. Lack of support from parents is probably the biggest issue they face.”

If he could give today’s teachers advice, he would tell them to follow their instincts of what they think is best for their students.

‘His hobby was school.

He loved being a teacher and principal.’

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Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

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February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

Mixed-Up

Moe

Valentine’s Dance You’re determined the annual valentine dance will be the best ever. Unfortunately, as you prepare the refreshment table, you realize your old friend Mixed-Up Moe printed the description cards that sit in front of each snack. Nobody will be able to read these! Can you unscramble the names of these 12 refreshments before the dance starts in 12 minutes?

1. ESRTYABRRW KECA 2. OHCAOCELT OSSMUE 3. EPIPDD EBERWTRISSAR 4. TRYAP CHNPU 5. COUTOCN OCEOKIS 6. ECEHES TYAR 7. RIFTU PDI 8. GMNPACAHE 9. LFEUTFRS 10. FESRH UTFIR 11. REIBOWNS 12. TIMIUSRA Turn Upside Down For Answers

21

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HOW

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(Ans whe

1. Strawberry Cake 2. Chocolate Mousse 3. Dipped Strawberries 4. Party Punch 5. Coconut Cookies 6. Cheese Tray 7. Fruit Dip 8. Champagne 9. Truffles 10. Fresh Fruit 11. Brownies 12. Tiramisu

22

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

February 2023

Couple offers free service to seniors searching for care

by John English Hoopla Correspondent Finding an affordable place to live can be a daunting task. For senior citizens, it can be even more difficult because there is a potential need for assistance. That is where Greg and Julie Lynch step in.

The Lynches work with a company called CarePatrol of Fort Worth, a business whose primary objective is to help families find assisted living, independent living, memory care, and other forms of residential placement, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Greg, 67, said that he and Julie have been a part of CarePatrol for five years, and said their main goals are to know the types of facilities that are available to potential residents and do everything they can to get seniors placed.

“What we do is we go out to all of these types of places, and we know what’s out there and how much they cost,” Greg said.

“We work with families that are looking for a place for a loved one, and we’ll set up the tour for them. We’ll even go with them and pick them up if we need to.”

The types of facilities vary, from independent living, where residents are totally autonomous, usually have a full kitchen and do not require any type of assistance, to assisted living facilities, where residents may or may not have a kitchen but can always rely on the facility to prepare hot meals, manage medication, provide housekeeping, and assist with grooming if necessary.

The Lynches also help seniors with placement in memory care and skilled nursing facilities.

Skilled nursing is provided by trained nurses in a medical setting under a doctor’s supervision. It’s similar to a hospital. The goal is to get well and go home.

A memory care facility is a long-term care unit geared toward seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

Greg said that while there are many aspects of his job that he finds rewarding, one does stand out.

“The neatest thing about what we do is we’re a free service for the families,” Greg

COURTESY

Brock residents Julie and Greg Lynch of CarePatrol help seniors find housing and care, according to their individual needs and budget. said. “We get compensated by the provider.

That’s the best part about it. When families are kind of stressed out, I don’t have to try to sell them anything. I just find out what their budget is, what they can afford, what area they are looking in, and what level of care their loved one needs. Then we set up some places for them to go look at.”

Greg has had his fill of sales, working as a medical device salesman for 33 years before turning to senior care.

The Kentucky native said as retirement approached from his last job, he began looking at work in the senior care industry.

“We had been reading the papers and we knew about this big, gray tsunami is what they were calling it,” Greg said. “Ten thousand people a day turn 65 throughout the country, so I wanted to get involved in some way after I got out of the other industry I was in. I wanted to get into some kind of senior care, and I kind of discovered this placement agency. I thought, it would be a good way to go, and it was something I could do with my wife Julie, and so we’re partners.”

Julie, 62, who is originally from the Rio Grande Valley, said there is so much job satisfaction that goes along with being a

senior care consultant that she is humbled, but also very happy that she and Greg decided to make the move.

“There have been several people that we have placed in residential homes, because they can’t afford where they are staying,” Julie said. “Assisted living is so expensive, and families don’t know where to turn, and we’ll take care of them. When we find a residential home in their price range, they just can’t believe it. It’s like we are their dream come true, because we’ll find a place for them—a nice clean place within their price range, and they are so grateful. That gives me a good feeling.”

Julie said that she and Greg will continue to do whatever they can to help seniors seeking residential placement.

“The most fulfilling thing for us is just knowing that they’re in a safe place that addresses their needs,” Julie said. “It just gives us so much satisfaction to help the seniors, because sometimes they don’t have anyone else to help them, and a lot of people will take advantage of them. We’re trying to prevent that.”

To reach Greg and Julie, call 817-8036227.

February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

LIMITED HOMES AVAIL ABLE

CALL 682-900-6565

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Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

February 2023

Making a difference Daughters of the American Revolution show appreciation to veterans The Weatherford Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution recently presented certificates of appreciation to veterans at Santa Fe Rehabilitation in Weatherford. The DAR was established to honor veterans of the Revolutionary War, but also celebrates veterans who have served throughout America’s history.

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Arthru Talmage, Marines

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Dennis Wilson, Army

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Donald Jones, Army

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George Washington, Navy

Murray Jeansonne, Navy

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Edwin Labato, Marines

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Harry Hamilton, Navy

Roy Austin, Marines

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George Baker, Air Force

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Herbert Meyers, Air Force

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Dennis Jones, Army

Teresa Jordan, Air Force

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John Mach, Army

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Truman Hornsby, Air Force

February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

Twentieth Century Club donates to CASA

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Twentieth Century Club Weatherford recently delivered donations to CASA of Parker County. Pictured, from left, is CASA Executive Director Kathy Meyer, CASA Recruiter/Trainer Christine Phoenix, and Twentieth Century Club President Julie Lundy Booker.

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Recognition of service

Friends of Memorial Lane Outgoing Chair Julia Pannell was presented with a beautiful plaque showing the board’s appreciation for the 16 years she served as chair.

Thank you Helping girls in school

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Zonta Club of Parker County President Donna Alberts (right) and past president Brenda Cook (left) dropped off a delivery of feminine products to girls attending Tison Middle School. Period Poverty is a Zonta District 10 wide project benefitting women and girls that cannot afford feminine products.

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COURTESY

Community Caring Center in Azle recognized Eva W. volunteering at the Porch Resale Shop. She began volunteering in August 2021. She helps with processing and preparing the donated items to be sold. When asked what is the best thing about volunteering at The Porch, she commented, “It makes my heart feel good.”

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Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

February 2023

Sopapilla Bars 2 packages (8 ounces each) crescent rolls 24 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 1/4 cups sugar, divided 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 large egg 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted 2 teaspoons cinnamon Heat oven to 350 F. Lightly grease 9-by-13-inch glass baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Place one package unrolled crescent rolls in bottom of dish. Pinch seams together.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese until soft. Add 1 cup sugar and cornstarch. Beat mixture until combined. Add vanilla extract and egg. Beat until combined.

Pour batter onto crescent roll dough. Smooth with spatula.

On floured surface, unroll second package crescent roll dough.

Pinch seams and roll dough to 1/2 inch longer and wider.

Place rolled sheet on top of cheesecake layer. Spread melted butter over top.

In small bowl, whisk remaining sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle

CULINARY.NET

CULINARY.NET

over top of bars.

Bake 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool to room temperature. Chill in refrigerator 3 hours or overnight.

Source: Culinary.net

February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

Making new memories while celebrating precious pasts.

That’s the Mirabella Way. Mirabella Assisted Living & Memory Care has become synonymous with exceptional residential alternatives for seniors. Not only does Mirabella meet the needs of their residents, they exceed them with chef-prepared meals, adaptive care plans and active lifestyle activities.

Our caring team members get to know our residents and their loved ones on a personal level, so not only will your needs be met, you’ll feel like family.

We're here for you every step of the way.

Call us now to schedule a tour!

AL 148732 MC 104318

(817) 422-0918 MirabellaLife.com

4242 Bryant Irvin Rd., Benbrook, TX 76109

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Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

February 2023

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Schedule your LUNCH & TOUR

CALL 817-442-2207

Downtown Fort Worth

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TCU

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4.9

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TX Health Resources SW Fort Worth

City of Benbrook

8.8

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miles

Chisholm Trail Pkwy

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February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

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Free tax preparation for seniors available from AARP Vounteers with the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide program are gearing up to help area residents with their 2022 income tax returns.

The volunteers are trained and tested in current tax law using IRS material to assist in filing basic income tax returns such as a form 1040 with schedules A, B, D, EIC, M, R, SE, and limited Schedules C and E. Appointments are available at the following locations: • Azle Library, 333 W. Main St. Azle, TX 76020. Call 817-444-7216 to make an appointment. The hours will be 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays, 1 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays and noon to 4 p.m. on Fridays.

• Boyce Ditto Library, 2300 SE Martin St. Mineral Wells, TX 76067. Call 940-328-7880 to make an appointment. The hours will be 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays.

• Hood County Library, 222 N Travis St, Granbury, TX 76048. Call 817-382-1005 to make an appointment. The hours will be 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays,

Bob White (seated), Daughter Anita White & Grandson Zack Bellenger

Wednesdays and Thursdays.

• Weatherford Library, 1014 Charles St. Weatherford, TX 76086. Call 817-6931-3176 to make an appointment. The hours will be 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; noon to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

•Saginaw Senior Center, 633 W. McLeroy Boulevard, Saginaw, TX 76179. Call 817-230-0459 to make an appointment.

The hours will be 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Tuesdays.

• Shamblee Branch Library, 1062 Evans Ave, Fort Worth, TX, 76104-5135. Call (817)392-5580to make an appointment. The hours will be from 3 to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays.

• Lake Worth Senior Center, 7005 Charbonneau Rd, Fort Worth, TX, 76135. Call (817)237-3281to make an appointment. The hours will be 9:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursdays.

• Trinity Episcopal Church Of Fort Worth, 3401 Bellaire Dr S, Fort Worth, TX, 76109. Call (817) 926 4631to make an ap-

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pointment. The hours will be 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.

• Watauga Community Center, 7901 Indian Springs Rd, Watauga, TX, 76148. Call (817)514-5892to make an appointment. The hours will be noon to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays.

• Iglesia Bautista Dios te ama, 5101 Wellview Ave, Fort Worth, TX, 76115-3715. Call (817) 781-7967 to make an appointment.

The hours will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays • Edgecliff Village City Hall, 1605 Edgecliff Rd, Fort Worth, TX, 76134. Call 817293-4313 to make an appointment. The hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Mondays.

• White Settlement Library, 8215 White Settlement Rd, White Settlement, TX, 76108. Call (817) 367-0166 for an appointment. The hours are from noon to 4 p.m. on Thursdays and on Mondays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

White’s

Funeral Home

Our family serving your family since 1908 • Full-service Funeral Home • Pre-need Plans • Cremation Services Azle • Springtown • Weatherford • Mineral Wells 817-596-4811 • www.whitesfuneral.com

SUDOKU

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Easy

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better February 2023 2 HOW TO SOLVE: 2 5 8 6 Each row must contain the numbersPicks Theatre n Find the Frog 4 6 8 9n Live 1 to 9; each column Daveenya Stone of Weatherford found must contain the 8 frogs. Did you?

9There last month’s hidden numbers 1 to 9; and were two frogs hidden in the last issue each set of 3 by 3 5 1 6 -- one on page 8 in the BCI shower ad boxes must contain and one on page 134 in the7 photo with the 5 the numbers 1 to 9. dog. Daveenya has won a $25 gift card to Cracker plus tickets to a live theatre.

8 (Answer appears else1 Barrel4 Enter this month’s contest by emailing to SAVANNAH SIPPING SOCIETY THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG in this issue) 3Theatre 4 Offwhere tell us where you found one hidden the Square Stage West frog (sample at right). Email entries Ticket Info: 817-341-8687 823 W. Vickery Blvd. Fort Worth 9 Tentative Dates: March 17 - April 1 6 to seniors@hooplamagazine.com. Include 30

Copyright 2023 by The Puzzle Syndicate

your name, address and phone number. All contestants receive a free e-subscription to Hoopla and a chance to win a prize.

Pick up next month’s issue to see if you’ve won! Winners must contact Hoopla within 30 days to claim their prize.

n Solutions Solution to Sudoku: 8 2 3 4 7 9 1 5 6

4 5 1 3 2 6 7 9 8

6 9 7 8 5 1 4 2 3

9 7 5 6 1 4 3 8 2

2 8 4 5 3 7 9 6 1

1 3 6 9 8 2 5 7 4

5 4 8 7 6 3 2 1 9

7 1 9 2 4 8 6 3 5

3 6 2 1 9 5 8 4 7

Solution to Crossword: A R I S E

D U M P Y

R O D E

E V E N

O P A L E S C E N T

A C T S

F L O E

F A T E

R E G I S T E R R E A S O N

N E O N T U A R N T A L L E Y S T I R S I A D

A S S E N T

C H O R A L E

L A P C A E L P C A U T E E

H E E D M E P M E W A R E S L M O L A N R A S T L L E A N O F L O F M S

B U L L E T O V E R R U L E

O R A L

T A C O

S L E W

A B L E S E A M A N

M A I N

P A N S

A M E N D

M A S K S

Synopsis: In this delightful, laugh-aminute comedy, four unique Southern women, all needing to escape the sameness of their day-to-day routines, are drawn together by fate—and an impromptu happy hour—and decide it’s high time to reclaim the enthusiasm for life they’ve lost through the years.

Ticket Info: 817-784-9378 Tentative Dates: Feb. 16 - March 5 Synopsis: Welcome to the opening night of “The Murder at Haversham Manor,” where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous.

With an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines), the whole evening is a disastrous smash.

THE FRONT PORCH

HELLO, DOLLY!

Popcorn Players 114 Porter Drive, Azle Ticket Info: 817-238-7529 Tentative Dates: Feb. 3-5, 11, 12 Synopsis: Watch as relationships grow, strengthen, fall apart and bond as they work to make a house a home – as seen from the front porch.

Granbury Opera House 133 E. Pearl Street, Granbury Ticket Info: 817-579-0952 Tentative Dates: Feb. 24 - March 26 Synopsis: Matchmaker Dolly Gallagher Levi is a widow, a matchmaker, and also a professional meddler -- but everything changes when she decides that the next match she needs to make is to find someone for herself.

Set in New York City at the turn of the century, “Hello Dolly!” is boisterous and charming from start to finish and features one of the strongest starring roles for a woman ever written for the musical theatre.

February 2023

Hoopla: Spotlighting North Texans 55 And Better

Life in Grace

by Lara Cook, North Side Baptist Church

Salt and light You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world.

God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light ww-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 MSG These are Jesus’ words from The Sermon on the Mount - The Message translation. He lays it out very clearly for Christians: our purpose is to be salt and light to a dark world.

Why salt and light and how can we do this?

Let’s Talk About Salt Salt changes things. Salt adds lots of flavor to our food. Salt also heals wounds, cleanses bacteria, preserves, and can even get rid of stains. In Jesus’ time, salt was used to preserve food because they didn’t have refrigeration. Salt was rubbed into meat and fish to keep it from spoiling before it could be eaten. Jesus wants us to be salt to preserve the world or stop it from going bad as much as we can.

Christians can be salt to the world by influencing the world for good, the way salt enhances the flavor of food.

We should be a positive influence, ministers of Christ to a broken and sick world by enhancing and communicating God’s goodness.

Let’s Talk About Light – Light dispels the darkness, the dark shadows, the pitch black of night. Light illuminates, exposes, and shows the way. Light helps us find things.

As Christians, Jesus says we are the light and we are to shine His light to the rest of the world, showing the way to Him. We are not to hide away from the world.

We are not to hide our faith or neglect to reflect Jesus. Just as light penetrates darkness, we

are to penetrate the darkness of this world and lead them to hope.

Jesus didn’t say go find salt and go find light. He said we ARE the salt and light. We are to be separate from the world, while we make an impact, and penetrate the world, just as salt and light penetrate. If we blend too well with the world, we lose our saltiness, our witness becomes tainted, and non-believers will not listen to us if we live the

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same as they do.

This broken world needs hope. As Christians, being salt and light will happen naturally out of a life of obedience to Him. Go and be salt and light to the world. Influence by illuminating and preserving. Love people and care for them and in doing so God’s light will shine through you, and they will know the flavor of God’s love that is better than anything they have ever known.

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