Hoopla, October 2018

Hoopla For Parker County Residents Ages 55+

The

BeauTy BuNch Pat Fulfer Fulfer crowned Pat crowned Ms. Senior Senior Ms. Parker County Parker County

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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+

The Beauty

October 2018

Bunch Here’s the story of some lovely ladies who were all seeking the same bejeweled crown

Ms. Senior contestants ( from left) Mary King, Martha Gibbs, Pat Fulfer, Nancy McVean and Allison Vandagriff.

by Richard Allen Hoopla Correspondent

H

ollywood star Jennifer Garner once said, “Beauty comes from a life welllived. If you’ve lived well, your smile lines are in the right places, and your frown lines aren’t too bad, what more do you need?”

Being named Ms. Senior Parker County wouldn’t be a bad thing to add to the list. Just ask Jo Sneed, the 2017 winner.

“You get to do so many fun things.

Just look and see what’s going on and show up,” she said with a laugh. “The Peach Festival was maybe my favorite thing. I got to sample all the goodies that came in, and I didn’t have to be a judge.

“Everybody wanted to have their picture taken with me,” she added. “It was all so much fun.”

That fun awaits Pat Fulfer, who was crowned this year’s winner. But then, all of the contestants said just being a part of the event was a blast, a highlight to each of their lives.

This year’s runners-up were Mar-

tha Gibbs, Mary King, Nancy McVean and Allison Vandagriff.

“I’m having fun,” King said before the pageant. “I’m excited, a little nervous. I’ve never done anything like this before.

But then, every contestant said the experience was something new for them. None had ever entered a pageant before, unless you count Vandagriff ’s eighth-grade experience.

“I won queen of the fall festival in a little town in Missouri with a population of about 10,” she said, smiling.

“But Donna Tillman has been after me the past two years to do this, and I finally said yes. I’m glad I did. I’m rather social, so this is great for me.”

Tillman is the director of the pageant, who started the event 17 years ago when her mother, Nadeen Pickard, worked for the Senior Center.

“The entire event is a blast,” Tillman said. “We enjoy it from rehearsal night all the way to the end of the program. The ladies are always wonderful and the audience is amazing.

They cheer and support every contestant throughout the evening.

“Every year, we say this one is the

best. I love to see the ladies’ confidence blossom as we work through the event. There have been many tears throughout the years as we watch the ladies face their fears and go out on that stage and give their all.”

The evening featured an introduction of past queens, along with a memorial moment for those who have passed on.

“Over half have gone on to their queenly home, and they include this event in their obituaries,” Tillman said.

Each contestant admitted benefiting Meals on Wheels was a big draw for them to enter the competition.

“Two of my sisters-in-law have used Meals on Wheels, and now a good friend of mine does, so I’m glad to help,” the newly-crowned Pat Fulfer said. “Plus, this is just great fun. I enjoy getting out and meeting people, and I’ve made some great friends through this.”

Gibbs said, “I got into this to raise money for Meals on Wheels, and hopefully I can help make a difference.”

Then, she chuckled, and added,

COURTESY

“Well, I also got in because Mrs. Nadeen (Pickard) doesn’t give up.”

McVean retired last year after nearly four decades of teaching theater at Weatherford College. Returning to the stage at the Alkek Auditorium was special, she said.

“This kept me in theater, and I’ve made new friends,” she said. “I didn’t know anyone, but I figured it would be fun, and a great thing for the community. I was right. This was fantastic.”

Tillman said over the years others have tried to duplicate the pageant, but “17 years later, here we still go.”

While it is a pageant, folks can check the pomp and circumstance at the door. Audience members, often filled with family members and friends, hold up signs of encouragement, and even bring noisemakers.

“Every year it’s so great to see the fun everybody is having, friends family. Grandkids get so excited. They’ll shout, ‘There’s Grandma,’ or ‘There’s Mammaw,’” Tillman said.

Contestants compete in an evening wear competition, talent presentation, and answer an interview

October 2018

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Adults 55+

question. “Just be thinking of your favorite algorithm,” pageant emcee Don Webster joked to the group during their annual meet-and-greet tea a couple weeks before the pageant.

He is in his second year of hosting after former county judge Mark Riley spent 15 years in the role.

The talent, of course, varies with each contestant. Some sing, some dance, one winner who was closing in on her 100th birthday (Opal Bowden in 2006) won with her joke telling. Another, Mildred Woodrum, won at age 98 in 2009 with a capturing musical rendition. “She started with Chopsticks and then went into Deep Purple,” Tillman said. “We were all amazed.”

“One lady read a poem she wrote for her husband. It was a little suggestive,” she added with a slight blush.

The 2011 winner, Carmen Ashby, reached fame beyond the pageant.

Tillman said she appeared in the popular TV show “Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman.” “She was a little spitball,” Tillman said.

Fulfer, this year’s winner, donned a wig and suspenders to recite “Mrs. Stein,” a hilarious poem about everyone’s least favorite substitute teacher.

It won her the crown.

“It was such an awesome time,” Fulfer said, “There just aren’t words to describe it all.”

“Thanks to all,” she added. “I will try to do my best as Ms. Senior Parker County.”

Pat Fulfer Who is your biggest inspiration in life and why?

My mother. She taught me about living my life for the Lord. She also taught me the basics of life by looking out for the good of others and having strong bonds with my siblings.

I had a brother with epilepsy and she cared for him and urged him on to be his best. He did continue in school until the ninth grade, and was a top student. Therefore, we learned whatever we put out minds to we could accomplish with God’s help.

What’s the best book you’ve ever read and/or the best movie you’ve ever seen?

The Bible.

If you could have brunch with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

I would like to sit with George Washington and hear how our country was founded upon Biblical principles, and how they were used then as

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we need these principles put back into use today in our country.

If you could give one piece of advice to the youth of today, what would it be?

Let the Lord lead your way.

What moment in your life made you laugh the hardest?

My great granddaughter, when learning to swim with her face under the water. Her teacher asked her to put her head in the water and she said “No.” The teacher said, “We don’t say no, we say we will try.” Great granddaughter, who is 5 years old, said, “Let me put this another way, as you don’t understand. I am not putting my head under the water.”

Hoopla Published Sept. 29, 2018 Volume 1, Issue 11 © Hoopla 2018. All rights reserved.

Hoopla is published monthly and distributed to over 65 locations throughout Parker County, including the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce and the Parker County Senior Center. For home delivery, subscriptions are $12 per year and can be sent to: Hoopla, P.O. Box 305, Weatherford, Texas 76086.

To Advertise, Call 817-894-1822 Publisher Cynthia Henry Writers Richard Allen Cynthia Henry Paula Hunt Colton Lawrence Morris Maniscalco Neil Sperry Copy Editor Sandra Davis

4

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+

The Beauty Bunch

(continued from P. 3)

What moment in your life made you laugh the hardest?

My husband and I were only married a couple of years when my elderly parents came to visit us — for a month. I had fixed a big meal, which I often do. I love to cook. Anyway, we had retired to the family room. My husband Phil leaned back in his recliner, patted his tummy and said “mercy.” Then my mother started talking about never having the privilege of meeting her mother-in-law because she passed before mom and dad were married. She said, “I never knew what it was like to have a mother-in-law.” My husband replied, without opening his eyes or sitting up, “They aren’t all they are cracked up to be.” My mother didn’t find it humorous until years later when she found out Phil has a great sense of humor. -- Allison Vandagriff Who is your biggest inspiration in life and why?

The biggest inspiration in my life is my father.

He lived the American dream. Very little education, learned skills working in the CCC’s (Civilian Conservation Corps) during the Depression.

He was creative, smart, a hard worker and very honest. He started his own business in the garage of our home and built it into a very successful enterprise. His employees were diverse. He gave them a good foundation for functioning in a changing world.

He was curious and adventurous and willing to take a risk. He and my mother visited six continents. He was involved in life, reading, being interested, a good listener without judgement.

When I grew up and wanted adventure, he always encouraged me. “You can do it - just be careful.” Because of him I received a wonderful education and had a life of exciting adventures. --Nancy McVean

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If you could have brunch with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

Joseph, I would love to sit and talk with him.

To me, Joseph represents Jesus well.

-- Mary King

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October 2018

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Adults 55+

5

Fall is here and so are the webworms Finally, we’ve turned the corner into some of the finest of all gardening weather. Fall is a time for assessing what worked and changing what didn’t. True Texas gardeners soon learn to love fall.

Plant: n Fall is the best time of the entire year to plant new trees and shrubs. It gives them many months to establish good roots before next summer. Exceptions are plants that are winter-tender in your area. n Plant spring-flowering wildflower seeds in full sun and where turf won’t compete. Keep young seedlings watered until they’re established, but don’t apply fertilizer. n Buy quality spring-flowering bulbs as they arrive in local nurseries. Daffodils, narcissus, jonquils, grape hyacinths and summer snowflakes can be planted immediately. Tulips and Dutch hyacinths should be refrigerated for at least 45 days at 45F to simulate winter.

Prune: n Old flower heads and seed stalks from perennial beds. n Dead and damaged branches from shade trees while you can easily distinguish them from healthy limbs. n Do not allow grass to grow taller than recommended height in the mistaken idea that tall grass is

Timely Tips

by Neil Sperry Gardening Expert

more winter-hardy. It is not.

Fertilize: n Turfgrass with high-quality, all-nitrogen food containing a significant percentage of slow-release nitrogen. n Patio pots and hanging baskets with water-soluble, high-nitrogen food to stimulate new growth in fall’s good growing conditions.

On the Lookout: n Webworms on pecans, mulberries, persimmons, walnuts and other trees. Prune out webs you can reach as they are starting to form.

Sprays are inefficient and difficult. n Cabbage loopers chewing holes in leaves of broccoli, cabbage and other cole crops. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) biological worm control. n Watch for stinging caterpillars. List includes asps (puss caterpillars), lo moth larvae and Hagg moth caterpillars. Teach youngsters not to handle caterpillars unless shown by an adult.

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Mexican bush sage (Salvia leucantha)

NEIL SPERRY

n Plant of the Month: Mexican bush sage They don’t make fall-flowering perennials much prettier than this one. As salvias go, it’s one of the tallest. It’s graceful and it’s easy. Once you grow it, you’ll never want to be without it. n Grows to 30 to 36 inches tall.

(Pinch out its growing tips one time in late May to keep it more compact.) Variety ‘Santa Barbara’ is a compact selection. n Full sun is best. Light shade from mid-afternoon on is fine. n A favorite with hummingbirds and butterflies (including migrating Monarchs).

n Plant it in highly organic, consistently moist garden soil. n Flowers are purple with white accents. A solid purple selection is sold, but the contrast of the two colors is very pretty. n Winter-hardy in southern twothirds of the state. n May benefit from winter protection in Parker County. Trim stems back to 3-4 inches after first hard freeze and cover them with a blanket of fallen tree leaves. n Fertilize with high-nitrogen food every 5 or 6 weeks during growing season.

n Readers Ask “What is the best tall screening plant for privacy?”

My personal preference, if you have room for it to grow properly, is eastern redcedar juniper (Juniperus virginiana). It’s the native evergreen you see across all the hills from Parker County and eastward into the Fort Worth and Dallas area. Plant them 18 to 22 feet apart, and if you want a natural look to your planting, zig-zag them at irregular spacings by planting them

in clusters instead of a straight row.

Nurseries do sell them, but you can also dig small transplants (kneehigh or shorter) with very good success in the winter. Taller plants are more difficult to transplant successfully.

If you don’t have that kind of room, Nellie R. Stevens or Willowleaf hollies are equally outstanding.

Screening plant types to avoid due to disease issues are Leyland cypress and redtip photinias.

Octob 6

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+

October 2018

nSUDOKU Sudoku

Edited

Difficulty: Easy

5

6 4

3

9

Artist of the Month

COURTESY

Marilyn Key was the first-place winner in Weatherford Art Association’s monthly art competition. Her winning oil painting, “New Trails,” will be on display at the Doss Heritage and Culture Center throughout October. Key will automatically be entered into WAA’s Artist of the Year competition.

Christmas art contest sponsored by Hoopla

Hoopla Magazine announces an art contest for artists of all ages living in Parker County.

The winning artwork will be featured on the cover of the December 2018 issue of Hoopla. A $100 cash prize will be awarded to the winner.

Honorable mentions will be featured inside the December 2018 issue as space allows.

Artists who enter the Christmas in Parker County Art Contest retain all rights and ownership of their original art; however, by entering the contest, you give Hoopla Magazine permission to use the artwork in the December issue and for promotional purposes in the future. You also give Hoopla permission to add their logo and minimal verbiage if your entry is selected

for the cover. This will be done in a most careful and tasteful manner.

Hoopla agrees to include the winning artist’s name on the cover.

We ask that you submit your entries electronically. Reprint quality matters; so, we recommend that you create a relatively small piece that can be easily scanned (in high resolution at any copy/print shop if you don’t have the equipment) and sent to seniors@hooplamagazine. com. Poor reproductions will be automatically rejected.

The deadline is Friday, November 16, 2018.

Lastly, we recommend you contact us if you do not receive delivery confirmation of your entry.

Good luck and thank you for participating!

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Copyright 2018 by The Puzzle Syndicate Copyright 2018 by The Puzzle Syndicate

Directions: Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must also contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9. (The puzzle solution is located on P. 13.)

n Weatherford Whatsit Solution to Sudoku:

7 8 1 3 6 2 9 5 4

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

7 8 1 3 6 2 9 52 44 6 5 5 9 3 7 4 1 2 84 63 5 1 8 6 7 4 2 4 6 5 8 9 7 31 12 9 8 4 3 5 1 2 6 8 79 95 4 2 8 6 7 4 9 5 1 26 37 2 9 1 2 9 8 3 7 6 43 51 8 6 Look is on P. 13.

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COURTESY PHOTO

1 9 3 5 7 8 2

October 2018

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Adults 55+

7

FINALLY a way to fix the PAIN of a BULGING DISC Are you suffering from back pain, arm or leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs?

Then it’s likely you’re suffering from a Bulging DISC. That’s when one of your spinal discs are bulging and causing these, sometimes severe, symptoms because of the effect it’s having on your nerve system.

You may have already had this diagnosed on an MRI and thought that there is little that can be done about it.

That’s a major problem: bad information, because in the right hands, a lot can be done for you.

To end the misery caused by Bulging DISCS, you must have the right information. Pay close attention because I’m going to destroy some important myths and give you the facts.

MYTH: Bulging DISC problems will just “go away” with some rest.

FACT: If you are dealing with leg pain, then you must seek help from a Bulging DISC specialist immediately. If left untreated, the problem can lead to permanent nerve damage - and lifelong pain.

MYTH: Pain is the only problem associated with Bulging DISC problems.

FACT: In severe cases, this problem can lead to the inability to control your bowels, bladder and sexual potency - leading to embarrassing situations.

MYTH: You must take pain medications to deal with Bulging DISCs. FACT: Drugs like muscle relaxants, pain killers, narcotics, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications have serious potential side-effects and do not cure Bulging DISCs. MYTH: “I must have done something wrong to damage my DISC.” FACT: Physical work or simply sitting at a desk for long periods can lead to Bulging DISCs. Accidents and trauma can also be the culprits. Pregnancy can cause damage.

DISC bulges can happen to anyone - including super-fit celebrities like Tiger Woods, Sylvester Stallone, and British Olympic medalist Ian Wynne.

MYTH: Stop exercising and get several weeks of bed rest to let the Bulging DISC recover…

FACT: Staying active can help to relieve the pain and prevent the pain from getting worse. Staying inactive in bed could be the worst advice - based on a recent study in the Netherlands.

MYTH: DISC Bulges or herniations require surgery.

FACT: No! There’s been a huge breakthrough in the treatment of Bulging DISCs.

MYTH: “There’s nothing anyone can really do. I’m just stuck with this for the rest of my life.”

FACT: With the correct treatment from a healthcare professional who specializes in Bulging DISCs, you can find relief from the core cause - and the symptoms.

MYTH: Getting a Bulging DISC properly diagnosed is expensive.

FACT: Not true. Dr. Carl McAfee in Weatherford is currently offering an initial consultation with one of their specialists for just $29.

Dr. Carl McAfee, D.C. is a Bulging DISC Expert in Weatherford.

This procedure does not require a hospital stay and, in most cases, you’ll be able to continue with your normal daily activities with little interruption. The focus is on finding - and correcting - the original cause of the Bulged DISC. According to Dr. McAfee, “We use a specialized digital x-ray motion study analysis to precisely diagnose the cause or your Bulging DISC. This means superior, longterm results for most people.”

Symptoms:

Because the treatment is non-surgical, safe, and easy, most patients report relief from their pain and associated symptoms early in the process.

Take the Next Step - END the Suffering … Initial Consultation Just $29.

The first step is to secure a thorough examination with Dr. Carl McAfee, DC. Call 817-594-0281 to schedule this article (CODE: 02HOOPLA2018) and they will happily reduce their usual consultation fee of $275 to just $29! Only 100 reader consultations are available at this exclusively discounted rate.

Call them now and get a full and thorough examination to pinpoint the cause of your problem for just $29.

The normal cost of such an exam is $275, so you will save $246!

Call them now at 817-594-0281 and cut out or tear out this valuable article and take it to your appointment.

You’ll be on your way to safe, lasting relief ! You can even call on the weekend and leave a message on their answering machine to secure your spot, and they promise to return all calls. During the week, staff can be very busy helping patients, so if they don’t pick up straight away, leave a message. Quote this special discount code: 02HOOPLA2018.

8

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+

October 2018

Calendar of Events Zonta International Wednesday, Oct. 3

New member induction, 11:30 a.m., North Side Baptist Church, 910 N Main Street, Weatherford (Youth Sunday School Classroom).

Parker County Extension Association Thursday, Oct. 4

10 a.m., Parker County Extension Office, 604 N Main Street, Weatherford.

Health Fair

a.m. to 12:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 301 S. Main Street, Weatherford. Call 817597-7529 with questions.

Twentieth Century Club

Wednesday, Oct. 10 Potluck lunch, discussion on upcoming veterans breakfast, 321 S. Main Street, 11:30 a.m.

Parker Co. Women’s & Newcomer’s Club Friday, Oct. 12

Saturday, Oct. 6 Free blood work (10-hour fast preferred), flu vaccinations and more, 8

Registration at 9:30 a.m., meeting at 10, followed by lunch, First United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 301 S. Main Street, Weatherford.

Aaron’s Catering Full-Service Catering, Staffing & Bartending

• Reunions

• Weddings • Parties

COURTESY PHOTO

Parker County Extension Education Association was recognized for District 3 Outstanding Education Programs at the TEEA state conference.

Craft and Cork

Pioneer Heritage Festival

Oct. 12-14

Mingle with friends while enjoying wine and beer pairings, local tastes and great music. No individuals under 21 will be allowed under any circumstances. Gene Voyles Park, 210 Hudson Oaks Drive, Hudson Oaks.

Walk To End Alzheimer’s

Saturday, Oct. 13 A 3-mile walk benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. Registration is at 8 a.m. Ceremony at 9 a.m. Walk at 9:30 a.m. Heritage Park Amphitheatre, 315 Santa Fe Drive, Weatherford. Call 817-336-4949 to register or ask questions. Early bird check-in is at Antonio’s Mexican Restaurant, 1900 Santa Fe Drive, on Oct. 11 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 13

Demonstrations, activities, crafts, food, music, plus a merchantile, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Doss Heritage and Culture Center, 1400 Texas Drive, Weatherford.

Parker County Cruisers Tuesday, Oct. 16

Meets at Harberger Hill Community Center, 701 Narrow Street, Weatherford, 6:30 p.m.

Quilter’s Guild Thursday, Oct. 18

Quilters will discuss the quilt show and share current projects, 6:30 p.m., North Side Baptist Church, 910 N. Main Street.

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October 2018

Aledo-Fest

Saturday, Oct. 20 Live music, food, business and craft vendors, activities for kids of all ages, 1 to 5 p.m., Vandagriff Elementary School, 408 FM 1187, Aledo.

Keno Night

Saturday, Oct. 20 Benefitting the Twentieth Century Club roof fund, 5 to 8 p.m., 321 S. Main St., Weatherford.

Harvest Festival Saturday, Oct. 20

Take the grandkids trick-or-treating on Weatherford’s historic downtown square, noon to 5 p.m., face painting, pony rides, pumpkin patch and ghoulishly themed meals at area restaurants.

Autumn Art Walk Sunday, Oct. 21

Unique artwork, demonstrations, live music, food and tours of the garden and mansion, Chandor Gardens, noon to 4 p.m., 711 W. Lee Avenue, Weatherford.

Weatherford Art Assn.

Monday, Oct. 22

Demonstration and monthly art judging, 6 p.m., Cherry Park Community Center, 313 Davis Street, Weatherford.

Daughters of the American Revolution Tuesday, Oct. 23

Discussion on member heritage and updates on the Wreaths Across America project, 2 p.m., North Side Baptist Church, 901 S. Main Street, Weatherford.

Healthy Cooking School Tuesday, Oct. 23

Live cooking demonstrations, samples, recipes, 6 to 8:30 p.m., $20 per person, Couts United Methodist Church, 802 N. Elm Street, Weatherford.

Advertisement

nCrossword Crossword Puzzle

9

by Margie E. Burke

(Puzzle solution is on P. 13.)

1 2 3 4 ACROSS 1 Like a fabled 14 piper 17 18 5 Depth charge target 20 10 Club at a club 14 Troop group 23 24 15 Power glitch 27 16 Snap-together toy 32 33 34 17 Xeriscape option 36 19 Cooking fat 20 Look of 40 41 contempt 44 21 Do goo 22 Delhi dough 46 23 CBS symbol 24 Professor _____ 51 52 53 27 Figure skater 57 Johnny 28 Cigarette flavor 60 32 Compassionate 63 35 Type of agent 36 Impassioned 37 Indian yogurt dip 39 Miles away 64 Plains dwelling 40 Applicable 65 Farm call 42 Plant with stinging leaves DOWN 44 Box with a bow 1 Dissect, in a 45 Mound of sand way 46 Cold-hearted 2 Literary device 48 Granola morsel 3 Roast host 51 Back of a boat 4 TV's Dick Van 54 Cozy room ____ 55 ____-violet 5 "Suits" network 57 It comes and 6 Fast food goes favorite 58 Mythological 7 Judge's daydreamer issuance 60 Pond scum 8 21, at a casino, 61 Musical exercise say 62 Do some darning 9 Royal flush card 63 Cattail, e.g.

5

6

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29

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16 19 21

22

25

26 28 35

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Copyright 2018 by The Puzzle Syndicate

10 11 12 13 18 22 25 26 27 29 30 31 32 33 34

Give an example Pear anagram Storybook villain Connecting point Type of energy Mystical mark Wandering worker Rusty nail danger Sweeping Dagger handle Like some vaccines Orpheus' instrument Bony fish State confidently Get to

35 38 41 43 45 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 56 58 59

On, as a lamp Poison remedy Miner's find Follow as a result Strip bare Diminish, as rain Sleek swimmer "Gladiator" setting Late for class Antares, for one Mah-jongg piece Margin Flock member Give the go-ahead "I told you so!"

10

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+

n Neighbors We’ll Miss n Darlene Woodle, 82 Sept. 17, 2018

n Jon Humphreys, 38 Sept. 8, 2018

n Norma Lauer, 79 Sept. 17, 2018

n David Karg, 80 Sept. 6, 2018

n John Baker Jr., 75 Sept. 16, 2018

n Mary Kemp, 91 Sept. 3, 2018

n Hugh Starr, 90 Sept. 16, 2018

n Ruth Wiley, 99 Sept. 1, 2018

n Roger Cato, 66 Sept. 16, 2018

n Billie Storie, 82 Aug. 31, 2018

n Beverly Jean Thomas, 76 Sept. 14, 2018

n Joe Lippincott Jr., 98 Aug. 31, 2018

n Lillie Morton, 82 Sept. 14, 2018

n Wayne Thompson, 92 Aug. 28, 2018

n Kermit C. Hess, 94 Sept. 10, 2018

n Crese Cockerham, 52 Aug. 21, 2018

October 2018

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October 2018

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Adults 55+

Help protect vulnerable family members from scam artists

If you have older family members • Obtain power of attorney. By creating a power of attorney, your loved ones whose cognitive functions or decisioncan designate you or another trusted making abilities have declined, or who relative or friend to assist with their fiare lonely or recently widowed, you might need to help protect them against nances now – for day-to-day assistance financial scams. What steps should you and protection from scammers – and take? later, should they become incapacitated. Again, you will need to employ some First of all, try to gain a good sense of sensitivity when distheir overall financussing this issue. cial activity. Look • Check references for red flags, such of caretakers. As menas a reluctance tioned above, some to discuss money caretakers are, unmatters, consisby Mary H. McDow fortunately, dishontently unpaid bills, Edward Jones Advisor est. Before you hire unexplained withone, check out this drawals, mysteriperson’s references. And even when you ous wire transfers or a sudden need to do, be careful – scam artists have been purchase large quantities of gift cards. known to use accomplices as references, And watch out for new “best friends” or caretakers who show an unusual interest so you will need to be thorough in your research and questions. in your loved one’s finances.

• Get to know your family members’ Whether or not you’ve observed any of these activities, you can help your elderly financial advisors. If possible, become family members by making these moves: acquainted with your older family mem• Have checks (such as Social Security bers’ financial advisors. Any reputable advisor will welcome a connection with payments) directly deposited. You can their clients’ loved ones. And if you are help your family members avoid a lot of involved in any estate plans, this multipotential trouble by having their checks generational relationship will prove bendeposited directly into their bank aceficial for everyone. counts.

• Ask to meet any new “friends” they • Seek permission to become a joint have met online. When someone is account owner. By becoming a joint lonely, they become vulnerable to onaccount owner on your elderly family line friendships. Sometimes, these new members’ checking and savings acfriends make promises of meeting, but counts, you can review statements for suspicious activity. Of course, your loved never show – and then they suddenly need money for one reason or another. ones may be initially reluctant to add It can be challenging to guard against your name, but if you have a good relaall threats posed by the scammers of the tionship with them, you should be able world. But by staying alert and taking to explain the benefits. the appropriate preventive actions, you • Shred bank statements, credit card may be able to help safeguard your loved offers and notices of lottery or sweepones’ financial security. stakes winnings. One of the most useful gifts you can give to your elderly family members may be a shredder. Encourage them to use it to shred old bank statements, credit card offers and other financial documents.

• Get on a “do not call” list. Telephone This article was written by Edward scammers are persistent and devious. By Jones for use by your local Edward Jones registering your family members’ house Financial Advisor, Mary H. McDow, 102 and cell phones at www.donotcall.gov, you may be able to reduce their exposure Houston Ave., Suite 203, 817-598-0882. to unwanted calls.

Member SPIC

11

The Braggin’ Spot

Sherri Johnson with her granddaughter Phynix on her first day back to school. To submit your photos, email seniors@hooplamagazine. com.

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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+

October 2018

Eula Phillips: Outpacing the young’uns

by Paula Hunt Parker County Quilter’s Guild

COURTESY PHOTO

Eula Phillips with a few of the many comfort quilts she makes each year.

‘I feel this is one way I can serve the Lord.’

–Eula Phillips

When I was a young woman, I used to tell my grandfather that the reason he could outwork me, even though he was in his 80s, was that “they made things better back in the day.”

Well, Eula Phillips is proof that my theory was correct. Eula was born is 1926, which was definitely “back in the day.” She is full of spunk and spirit and nothing like what you would expect for someone of her age.

At the beginning of each year, she challenges the other guild members to match her goal of making one quilt each month for our Comfort Quilt Program. She then goes on to exceed her goal on a regular basis. The month that I took her photo she had just turned in seven comfort quilts. Few if any of the younger guild members can keep up to her pace.

Eula is a true Texas lady. She was born and raised in Millsap and graduated from Millsap High in 1944. One year later, she married Cleo Phillips. They were blessed with five children – one boy and four girls. Their family grew to include 14 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. All her family lives close by except her son, who lives in Arizona.

Eula worked beside Cleo as they made their living farming and ranching. Homemaking duties, such as sewing for her children and raising a large garden, took up a lot of her time.

Over the years, she also worked outside the home at a dress factory, White’s Auto and Gib-

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“A stitch above the rest.”

son’s Café. After all those years of hard work, Eula spends time now being active in her church and making quilts – mostly for others.

Before Eula started school, she helped her mother make quilts. “I loved to press scraps with my little iron heated on a woodburning stove in the living room,” she said. “I really preferred that to school. Momma was a very good quilter. I wanted to be as good (no such luck).”

Even though Eula may not think she matches her mother’s skill, she is a wonderful quilter and I am sure that her work would make her mother very proud. The fact that her “aim and desire is to do the best I can every time” speaks volumes about this sweet lady.

Eula joined the Quilter’s Guild of Parker County “when she learned how many lives had been touched by the work everyone was doing.”

She is active in two bees. One meets in Brock, and the other at Sewing World in Weatherford.

She feels that bees are special groups because they provide “sharing time as well as fellowship, and she loves to share tips with them all.”

While Eula does not have one favorite project, she has enjoyed making quilts for her family. She has even made quilts for some of the preachers at her church over the years.

There is not any one fabric genre that Eula likes best. “Just good fabric that catches my eye,” she said.

“Since my eyesight is now challenged, I have developed a few techniques that help me continue what I truly, truly love to do – help others. I feel this is one way I can serve the Lord.”

Eula is an inspiration to all that know her.

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“Thanks to you, we are able to provide our Weatherford ISD students these unique and unforgettable experiences.” -- Elane Hardaway, President

October 2018

Pardon Me!

4 3 8 1

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Adults 55+

P A R S E

Lakeshore party out of this world The 55-and-over members of Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church recently held their fifth Friday social.

The theme was “Stars at Night,” an informative and interesting slide presentation by Rev. Brad Riza. The menu was equally interesting. The 80 in attendance enjoyed a Big Bang menu featuring space-related food and drink. Several of the main dishes COURTESY were Spudnicks (potato casserole), The Malt Shop, featured in this month’s Weatherford Whatsit (p.

6), has been Moon Balls (meatballs), Alien Finserving up cheeseburgers and malts for generations.

The drive-in restaurant, gers (shrimp), “Meat”eorites (chicken located at 2028 Fort Worth Highway, recently celebrated 60 years. nuggets), Space Junk (green salad), Galaxy Parfait ( fruit and yogurt), Space Balls (grapes), and Saturn’s Moons (apples). These meals included Rocket Fuel (tea) and AstroSyntha West of Willow Park your name, address, phone numnaut Punch (Tang). Desserts availwon last month’s Find the Frog ber, and a brief description of able were Moon Pies, Star Crunch, contest and will receive a $25 gift where you saw the hidden frog to Star-Mallows (marshmallows), Sun certificate to CVS. Syntha found Hoopla, P.O. Box 305, Weatherford, Rays (candy corn) and Milky Way the hidden frog on P. 4 of last Texas 76086 or e-mail seniors@ candy bars. After the slide show, Rev. month’s issue. Ready to win this hooplamagazine.com.

Riza invited the attendees outdoors month’s prize? We hid the Readers who submit the correct same frog (shown at right) location of the frog will be entered to view the various star clusters and many,for Andrew let life somewhere in this issue! into aLike drawing a $25 simply gift certifiplanets through his telescope. It was cate Truly Trendy. an out-of-this world get-together. To enter the contest, submit

gettoaway from him. He was eating fast

Syntha West finds frog, wins CVS gift card

5

2 13

2 Solution Crossword: Solution to to Crossword:

Solution to Weatherford Whatsit:

by Morris Maniscalco Hoopla Columnist

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D U B O A T I R Y S U R G E L E K G A R D E N L A E R G E L R U P E M E R I T U S Copyright 2018 by The Puzzle Syndicate W E I R M E N T H C A R I N G L I T E R A A V I D R A I T A A F R E L E V A N T N E T T D U N E P R E S E N T P I T I L E S S O D E N U L T S T E R N L O T U S E A T T I D E E T U D E M E A L G A T E P E E B R R E E D

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Solution to to Sudoku: Solution Sudoku:

7 5 2 4 8 1 9 6 3

8 9 4 3 6 2 5 7 1

1 3 6 5 7 9 4 2 8

3 7 5 1 4 8 2 9 6

6 4 8 2 9 3 1 5 7

2 1 9 6 5 7 8 3 4

9 2 7 8 1 6 3 4 5

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4 6 1 9 3 5 7 8 2

Send us your recipes!

Have a favorite recipe for chilly fall evenings? Share your hometown favorite by writing Hoopla at PO Box 305, Weatherford, TX 76086. Email us at seniors@hooplamagazine.com.

You may be featured in an upcoming issue.

food, enjoying his adult beverages Like and many, Andrew simply let life Like many, Andrew simply let life not exercising enough. “It wasget a thing away from him. He was eating fast awayletfrom Like many, Andrewget simply life him. He was eating fast willpower. justadult said,beverages ‘I’m food, not going get away from him. Heof was eating fast Ihis food, enjoying andenjoying his adult beverages and food, enjoying his adult beverages and notdoexercising enough.he“Itsaid. wasnot a thing to this anymore,’” “There exercising enough. “It was a thing not exercising enough. “It was a thing Family owned, Texas built of willpower.

I just said, ‘I’m not going of willpower. I just said, ‘I’m not going aresaid. no “There cheat days. There’ s no of day to willpower.

• anymore,’” Tuesday Evenings at 6 p.m. I just said, ‘I’m not going to do this anymore,’” he to do this he said. “There NOW INSTALLING by theisClass @ $10 to are no cheat days. There’s to Payable reward myself.

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The reward that are I@ no$5cheat days. There’s no day to could this.”Payable could do this.” by theisClass could do this.”

Andrew’s routine now includes Visit our Showroom reward myself. The reward is that I Mention Andrew’ s routine now includes pushups, sit-ups, weightlifting and routine now includes Andrew’s “Hoopla” for 3411 E. Hwy 377 817-771-2566 And, of course, he never pushups, sit-ups, weightlifting weightliftingcould and do this.” $500 running.

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4 1

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+

n Hometown Mysteries

into building an extravagant ranch house, where prominent figures, like Theodore Roosevelt and Will Rogers, were flown in for hunting trips and parties.

Meanwhile, Mary and Burk settled in Fort Worth. It was the second marriage for both, and likely the most tumultuous. The couple struggled with insurmountable darkness after their only child died as a young man.

Things further unraveled when Burk discussed leaving his fortune to his granddaughter Anne.

Burk’s close relationship with his granddaughter made Mary uneasy.

As tensions mounted, she began telling others that she feared Burk might take her life.

He didn’t.

He took her freedom.

Burk had Mary unjustly committed to an asylum in a private home in Weatherford and disinherited her.

Mary was known to be a woman of style and grace, but it is said that no trait is more justified than revenge in the right time and place.

So, she sat in the asylum for two years, plotting her return. She is

Pat Fulfer crowned Ms. Senior Parker County

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They say revenge is a dish best served cold and, boy, did Mary Couts Burnett prepare a vengeful feast back in her day.

You may not know Mary’s story, but you surely recognize her maiden name. Her father, cattleman James R. Couts, established Citizen’s National Bank of Weatherford in 1865 after relocating his family from Arkansas. The family’s Weatherford home no longer stands, but hints of the Couts’ influence and generosity can still be seen around town.

Being born into privilege gave Mary a unique opportunity to help others, and she was known as a philanthropist before she ever met her husband, Samuel “Burk” Burnett, in the early 1890s.

Burk made his fortune as the owner of the 6666 Cattle Ranch near Guthrie and the Dixon Creek Ranch in the Panhandle.

He learned the cattle business from his father. Ranching was a family tradition that he treasured almost as much as his grandchildren, who were a result of his first marriage to Ruth B. Lloyd. Burk had even more to love about life after he won the heart of Mary. But one thing Burk couldn’t stand, according to Couts Family legend, was the thought of his money going to any religious or educational institution.

Instead, Burk poured his fortune

The

BeauTy BuNch

Phone (we do not share subscriber info)

of Mary Couts Burnett

said to have escaped on the very day Burk was laid to rest in 1922.

Under the advisement of her family physician, she quickly underwent tests to have her insanity status revoked.

She was free. Burk was dead. But it wasn’t enough to satisfy Mary.

Although she had no need for Burk’s vast fortune, it didn’t stop Mary from suing his granddaughter for half of his estate shortly after her return. She was awarded $3 million in 1923.

It was what she did next that surely had her late husband rolling in his grave. She sat down with Texas Christian University President E.M. Waits to discuss conditions relating to a donation of exactly $3 million.

Did Weatherford’s own Mary Couts Burnett give TCU her husband’s fortune out of spite? Nobody knows for certain. Mary took that secret to her grave.

Her sudden interest in the school did raise eyebrows.

TCU, which was founded in 1873, has denominational ties to the Christian Church. Mary was an Episcopalian.

Regardless of her intentions, generations of students have benefitted from Mary’s decision. The terms of the generous donation stipulated that $150,000 was to be used for a school library.

TCU’s Mary Couts Burnett Library opened its doors in 1927. It still serves students today.

Mary was driven by the building during its construction, but she died in December of 1924 before it was completed. She had no living heirs and is buried in East Oakwood Cemetery in Fort Worth.

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October 2018

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October 2018

Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Adults 55+

n Reach Out Disabled American Veterans now meet closer to home

COURTESY PHOTO

Happy 80th to you both

Doreen Kammer (left) and Nadeen Pickard, both of Weatherford, celebrated their 80th birthdays recently.

Doreen took a family trip to celebrate her special day, while Nadeen celebrated with loved ones locally.

COURTESY PHOTO

Old friends, new venue

Jack Parker of Cool and Barb Wellnitz of Garner caught up at By the Creek’s grand opening celebration on September 21. The rustic banquet facility is just off of Bethel Road at 150 Bielss Lane.

Happy 100th

COURTESY PHOTO

Oneta Barnes, formerly of Weatherford, celebrated her 100th birthday with local friends and family. Pictured to her right is her good friend Belle Stone.

Oneta also caught up with her longtime friends at the Senior Care at Holland Lake coloring group while she was in town. She enjoys traveling when she can. She now lives with her daughter, Joyce Holloway, in Greenbottom, West Virginia. “She needs someone to take care of her,” joked Oneta.

The newly-formed Disabled American Veterans chapter in Granbury invites Parker County DAV members and potential members to attend their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of each month. The October meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. in the clubhouse at 959 Charterhouse Circle in Granbury.

DAV is a leader in connecting veterans with meaningful employment. The organization also provides resources, information, and rides for veterans attending medical appointments. DAV assists with more than 250,000 benefit claims annually. In 2017, DAV helped attain more than $4 billion in new and retroactive benefits to care for veterans, their families and survivors.

Granbury meetings are closer in proximity for most local veterans, who may have previously traveled to meetings in Stephenville. For more information, call Chris Georgopoulos at 682-302-1522. n Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group, 1st Thursday each month, 10 a.m., North Side Baptist Church, 817-336-4949. n Grief Share, Saturdays, 10 a.m., North Side Baptist Church, 910 S. Main Street, Weatherford, 817-5998612. n Parkinson’s Support Group, last Tuesday of each month, North Side Baptist, Room 102, 3 to 4 p.m., 817-901-4658. n Parkinson’s Care Partner Group, 2nd Tuesday of each month, North Side Baptist, Room 104, 11 a.m. to noon, 817-901-4658.

15

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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+

October 2018

Ambassador program a hit at senior center

by Colton L awrence Parker County Committee on Aging Going into a new environment can be a bit overwhelming, and Linda Wilkins remembers that feeling when she first visited the Weatherford Senior Center seven years ago.

“You’re in a strange place and you don’t know anyone,” Wilkins said.

Wilkins, along with Pauline Graves, takes part in an innovative Senior Ambassador program implemented at the Weatherford Senior Center as a way to help new members feel welcome. As ambassadors, Wilkins and Graves wear many hats.

They greet new visitors, but they also make announcements about events and birthdays, and act as a liaison between the seniors and staff.

Wilkins moved to Weatherford from her native Michigan seven years ago, and her daughter insisted she take part in the Senior Center activities. “I’m too young to go there!” Wilkins said to her daughter. “No, no, there’s a lot going on!”

Wilkins’ daughter assured her. All these years later, Wilkins credits the Senior Center activities for helping her retain feelings of youth. “We have a 94-year-old who runs around here, and she does yoga -- it’s incredible!”

A lifelong resident of Weatherford, Graves was first brought to

Jason Petty October 4 at 7 p.m.

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Senior Ambassadors Linda Wilkins and Pauline Graves the center by her husband, and she has never left. “I fell in love with the Senior Center the first time I came – it wasn’t anything like I thought,” Graves said. “We have great activities and wonderful food.”

Both naturally outgoing, Graves and Wilkins had been unofficial ambassadors for the Senior Center for years. Shelly Mowery, Executive Director of Parker County Committee on Aging, Inc., noticed their natural chemistry and can-do attitude and wanted to make their roles more official. “Linda and Pauline are wonderful volunteers and really know the guests and their needs,” Mowery said. “They make everyone feel welcome.”

Mowery credits Graves and

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Wilkins for the success of the program. “The Senior Ambassador program really helps identify areas of improvement in activities and services so we can be the best center for Parker County seniors.”

The Weatherford Senior Center is open daily for lunch. Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch is free for those 60 and over who have registered with the center. Donations are always appreciated to offset the cost of the meals. The center is open for activities Tuesday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. A menu and activities calendar is available at pccoa.org.

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