Community Life, December 2015 by Community Life

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The magazine published by the Cleburne Times-Review for Johnson County December 2015 Vol. 10, No. 6

Alvarado's Jim Tipton Twiztid Freek Dell Stanley Whistle Stop Christmas

BOBALFORD

Sheriff reflects on 20 years of service in Johnson County

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Community Life

SHERIFF Bob Alford reflects on 20 years of protecting Johnson County

page 6 on the cover

don’t get it

TWIZTID

Alvarado’s Dell Stanley is soft-hearted despite rough exterior

page 16

rootin’ tootin’

TIPTON

Alvarado resident finds ways to stay busy after retirement

page 28

Whistle Stop

CHRISTMAS

Over 3.5 million lights in Hulen Park

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TECH COLLY Holiday techie gifts

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Sheriff Bob Alford reflects on 20 years of protecting Johnson County STORY BY Matt Smith

ohnson County Sheriff Bob Alford, in a 2013 Times-Review article in which he was named man of the year, said he still looked forward to coming to work everyday after then 16 years in office. “The day I quit looking forward to it is the day I will think about retiring,” Alford said at the time. “The good Lord put me here in this job, and when he is ready for me to leave it, I will go.” Alford earlier this year announced that he will not seek re-election in 2016, which begs the question of the reasons behind his decision to retire next year. “That’s a fair question,” Alford said when asked. “It’s not that it’s not fun anymore. It’s, basically, I’ll

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be 70 at the end of my current term. I’ll have had 20 years at the end of this term. I’ve truly been blessed with public support and good staffs during my time as sheriff and I want to go out still being wanted instead of people saying I’m glad he’s gone.” At 69, Alford by all outside appearances looks to be as fit or more so than most men many years his junior. But, Alford said, Father Time takes his toll. “I am not physically the man I was when I took this job,” Alford said. “I used to kick all the doors, make a lot of the arrests. I still do it when I have to. But, my body’s saying, well, I’m fixing to have to have shoulder surgery, fixing to have to have knee surgery, those things that come on with age.”

Photo by Jessica Pounds

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Sense of something bigger Pictures of Johnson County’s 30 sheriffs preceding Alford line the main hallway of the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, which was several years ago renamed the Clifton Taylor Law Enforcement Center. Throughout his tenure, Alford said he’s often paused to gaze at the photos of the men who served before him and read the biographical information alongside their pictures. “I am aware of that sense of history,” Alford said. “I hope my replacement, whoever that turns out to be will feel the same way. Those former sheriffs, I feel like they all gave their hearts to the job to the best of their ability. That belief and hope that he played his role in the larger sweep of the history of Johnson County and JCSO also factored in to the decision to retire, Alford said. “I feel, as successful as we’ve been, that it’s time for new blood,” Alford said. “It’s time for somebody else to come in. I feel like we’ve always been progressive and want to make sure that continues, make sure the sheriff’s office keeps moving forward. “The next few years are going to be very challenging with the toll road already open. We’re already seeing development and houses planned. Then when that new development goes in, Cleburne Station, we’re going to see more business, people, houses. All good stuff, but that’s also going to increase the responsibilities on us and the police departments in the county.” Although the election for the next sheriff won’t occur until November 2016, Alford’s current term runs through the last day of 2016. Several have already declared their intent to run for sheriff next year. “I’ll just say that so far of all the candidates who have announced I think all are good men,” Alford said. “I think that the county is not going to lose under this thing and it’s my intent to make a smooth transition with whoever wins that election. I’m going to run it right up to midnight Dec. 31. But, all they want, I’ll come in and spend time with the new guy.” All about Bob Though officially he’s Sheriff Alford many prefer the nickname Sheriff Bob. In a nod to humor, humor likely lost on the county jail’s 8

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residents, T-shirts advertising Sheriff Bob’s Bed & Breakfast were once offered at JCSO. “No, never minded people calling me that,” Alford said. A gale of laughter bursts forth when it’s suggested that the nickname is perhaps akin to John Wayne being referred to as the Duke. “Never thought of it that-away,” Alford said. In his younger days cowboys — John Wayne, Roy Rogers and the good guys — provided Alford with his heroes. One hapless cousin frequently found himself tied to a tree courtesy Alford’s penchant for playing cowboys and indians. An old west motif runs through his life. Long active in the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse, local rodeo events and the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum, Al-

cery store and drove a truck before heading down his current career path. Looking back decades later, however, Alford said his law enforcement journey makes sense in retrospect. “I had a grandfather who encouraged me, said, ‘Why don’t you get into law enforcement?’” Alford said. “Back then the sheriff where I grew up had about two deputies. So when he had to take a bad boy to [Texas Department of Criminal Justice] he’d reach out to one of the farmers and my grandfather, he helped haul more inmates to jail than anyone else. “Anyway, I became friends with that sheriff as a little kid and respected him. He was always nice and polite to me and, as a kid, I was always told he’s the sheriff and that’s an im-

Photo by Jessica Pounds

Johnson County Sheriff Bob Alford recently announced his retirement, but said he will work until midnight Dec. 31, 2016, the last day of his term.

ford lists the works of Western novelist Louis L’amour among his favorite reading after the Bible. “Lonesome Dove” rates as his favorite movie. In addition to gospel, Alford rates country as his music of choice. “I like old country music,” Alford said. “This new stuff isn’t country.” Including his time as sheriff, Alford’s law enforcement career totals 46 years. He entered the Texas Department of Public Safety’s academy in 1969 and graduated in 1970 and went on to work everything from patrol to narcotics to undercover. For the boy raised in Amherst, a West Texas town northwest of Lubbock, a law enforcement career wasn’t the first choice, Alford said. Early on Alford farmed, managed a gro-

portant position. Because of him I’ve always gone out of my way to shake kids’ hands and say hello to them.” Alford jokes that his law enforcement career hopes almost died before they began. “When I joined the highway patrol, No. 1, you can’t have any kind of record,” Alford said. “But they also ask you to list all your tickets and I had, I don’t know, four or five lines on the form. Well, I was smart enough to know they had computers so I better not lie if I want to get this job. “I had to turn the page over to write it all. I had racing tickets, speeding tickets you name it. By the time I finished filling that form out I go, ‘Well, there goes my chances.’ But they kept me. I thought since I like to drive fast I

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might as well get paid for it.” Meeting his wife, Marty Alford, proved a plus during his time with DPS, not to mention the fact that she likely saved his life. Marty Alford, working with the Fort Worth Police Department at the time, teamed with Alford on an undercover operation targeting a drug dealer. “I had to go to a strip joint over in Arlington to meet him to buy cocaine,” Alford said. “We ended up out in his truck and he had a cousin, big old boy. Anyway, I got stuck in the seat between them. He reached across me, the main guy, to the glove box and took out a .38, made sure I saw it and stuck it in his waistband. Course he’d already questioned me about being a policeman.” The men began doing cocaine and passed it to Alford. Marty Alford, meanwhile, who was posing as Alford’s wife, was waiting in another car. “I didn’t do [cocaine], want to make that clear,” Alford said. “But she realized I’d been there too long, something was going south. So she came up starting beating on the window you know, ‘Hey, gotta get, pick up the kids. We’ve been here too long,’ which was just a cool diversion on her part. If she’d run up saying we’re police I probably would’ve got shot. “Right then I figured anybody that pretty and smart I better hang on to. We celebrated 30 years last year.” Marty Alford’s decision to retire last year after her own storied career in law enforcement also played a role in Alford’s decision to retire, he said. Looking back Being sheriff involves ups and downs Alford admits, but the job has been in many ways about what he hoped it would be when he first took office. “It’s very rewarding in that you have a direct relationship with the public,” Alford said. “A sheriff is the peoples’ police officer. The sheriff is elected, therefore he’s hired and fired by the public. Police chiefs, I mean no disrespect, they’re hired by a city manager with the advice and consent of a city council. So you can’t always directly have the access or voice your opinion to the chief the way you can the sheriff. “My phone number is not unlisted. A lot of police chiefs, officers do that. Hey, I work for them. As long as they keep it nice, I’ll take 10

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those calls. Half the county has my cell phone and anyone else can always call dispatch and tell them they want to talk to me.” Alford said he looks back fondly on both chapters of his law enforcement career. “I like being sheriff more though,” Alford said. “It’s more direct contact. With DPS you

“Lot of guys, once they move up, get into the Rangers or working narcotics undercover or whatever, say they’d never go back to highway patrol,” Alford said. “I’d go back today if I was physically able. I enjoyed it. It was a chance to get to help people. I still go out on major calls here. When I first took office I’d go

Courtesy photos

Bob Alford was named the Texas Narcotics Officer of the Year on July 12, 1989. Also pictured is his wife, Marty. Below: Bob Alford is sworn in for his second term as Johnson County sheriff by Judge C.C. “Kit” Cooke. Also pictured is Alford’s wife, Marty, and Dr. David Hampton.

don’t get a lot of direct public interaction. The chamber of commerce, civic organizations and things like that, the sheriff is expected to be a part of.” That doesn’t mean the job can’t be taxing. “It takes a little toll on your family life,” Alford said. “Actually, if I honored every request I could be out every night.” All the same, Alford admits to a certain nostalgia for his earlier days.

out and ride with deputies.” How much they enjoyed having the boss along is anybody’s guess. “Oh, I think they did,” Alford said. “Well, you know. The thing is, I let them do their jobs. I just rode back up for them.” This is home Though he’s not originally from the area, Alford said he quickly grew to love Parker

County at first, during his time with DPS, and later Johnson County. He admits, however, that a job opportunity nearly cut his tenure as sheriff short. “’Bout my second, third term I was approached by the U.S. Marshals, a position came open,” Alford said. “It was when George W. Bush came in. I’d got to meet him, course he wouldn’t know me from Adam. But I’d met him and really liked what I saw in him. I was asked to submit an application for the U.S. Marshals and I did. Met with some local people here got a lot of support and some letters. I think I went through about three different interviews, had to send a resume in, all that stuff.” Out of 60 some applicants, Alford made the top three and traveled to Washington, D.C., to be interviewed by Sens. Phil Graham and Kay Bailey Hutchison. Another man received the job. Alford said that he and the third applicant joke and argue over who came in second. “Of course they don’t tell you that,” Alford said. “It’s a political appointment with the advice and consent of the U.S. Senate.

“After that, I decided it’s in the Lord’s hands. This is where he wants me. About two years later I got a call, Houston’s open if you want it. I said, ‘No thanks. I just think I’ll stay here in Johnson County.” Good times and bad times Being sheriff, like any job in law enforcement, is both satisfying and heartbreaking, Alford said. To the good, Alford cites Kevin Brown, a 2-year-old Alvarado boy who went missing for several days in 2006. “That was one of the best days, finding him after 69 hours missing,” Alford said. “Most experts say that if you haven’t found them after 48 hours it’s too late.” Alford’s two appearances on Conan O’Brien’s show a few years ago also rank high. Both appearances rate comedy gold, but Alford said he wasn’t so sure when first asked to do the bits. “Reservations? Oh yeah,” Alford said. “The first thing I told them when they called and asked was, ‘Look, I gotta live here. This is my county and I’m proud of my county and

proud of the jobs we’re doing. We’re not going to be made to look like goofballs.’ They said, ‘Oh no, no, no. That’s Conan’s job and there’ll be no disrespect.’ And it turned out good.” Alford laughs recalling that JCSO twice made “America’s Dumbest Criminals.” “The Cleburne Police Department got in a chase with some burglars or something, they were from out of town,” Alford said. “Anyway, our deputies joined the chase. Well, the bad guys came off the main road, actually drove out here by the jail.” The door to the sally port, the garage like structure where officers deliver arrestees to the jail was open, Alford said. “So these guys drove right into that sally port, we just shut the door, chase over,” Alford said. “Like I said, they were here from out of town and said they thought they were pulling into some parking garage or something where they could hide out for a while.” The second JCSO appearance on the show occurred after a man robbed a bank in downtown Cleburne several years ago. A Cleburne officer ticketed the car, which the man had left running unattended at an expired meter, Al-

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ford said. Thanks to the license plate number on the ticket, detectives were quickly able to determine who owned the car. “[The bank robber] was what I call a frequent flyer over here,” Alford said. “So we just went to his house and waited for him to come home. And, I’m not exaggerating, when he got home and got out of his car there was money sticking out of his front pocket.” On the less pleasant side, Alford said he knows, or is very sure of, who’s responsible for a couple of murder cases but that the proof just isn’t there. With both cases still open, Alford declined to elaborate further. The unsolved case of Angel Baby Doe, a newborn found dead in 2001 on the side of a road in the Briaroaks area, hurts most, Alford said. “She was wrapped in a Winnie the Pooh jacket of all things, left out in the cold,” Alford said, still visibly shaken by the memory. “A man traveling down the road on a tractor spotted her. When I got to her, according to the medical examiner, she could not have been more than an hour deceased. “The community came together. The mon-

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Courtesy photo

Bob Alford, left, sorts through evidence with Fort Worth Police Department officer Darrell Pena after a bust while working undercover as B.J.’s Trash and Treasure employees on Farm-to-Market Road 917 in September 1987.

ument guys made a tombstone for her. Other people held services for her. I used to visit her grave and I don’t know if it was the person who left her or just a citizen but there’d be a new toy on that grave each time I went by.”

The loss of JCSO Deputy Clifton Taylor in 2011 still stings, Alford said. Taylor was shot and killed while responding to a domestic disturbance call. He’s one of only two JCSO officers to have lost his life in the line of duty.

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Dealing with that side of the job requires a faith in something bigger, Alford said. “No. 1, trust in the Lord,” Alford said. “I read the word and I pray a whole lot. But also because of my relationship with my wife. I confide in her and I’ve also got a few close friends that I can go talk to, that I can go cry with, whatever it takes.” Alford’s strong faith in God came later in life, he said. His grandparents were religious and that rubbed off to some degree. His parents took him to church occasionally. “No sir, I didn’t accept the Lord or give my life to God till I was 48 years old, two years before I became sheriff,” Alford said. “The scripture says raise them up and they will return. At 48 years old I finally figured out where I was heading if I didn’t get right.” Team effort Alford said he is proud of the progress and programs JCSO has seen under his tenure from formation of the cold case squad to the search and rescue team to the newly established police academy in partnership with Navarro College. The annual Cowboys for Kids event — a combined effort of JCSO and the Children’s Advocacy Center of Johnson County — has also been a huge benefit for the county and for children, an endeavor Alford said quickly outgrew him and now takes a massive effort of team work to pull off every year. “Our people,” Alford said when asked what he’s most proud of. “I think our people have really stepped up to the plate. You can back that up with DPS numbers that show us consistently within the highest if not the highest rate of crime clearances among surrounding agencies, and that’s due to our people.” High esteem Several around the county have commented that Alford should change his mind and decide to run again. After all, he would be unbeatable, some say. Area criminals may be glad to see Alford hanging it up soon, but most everyone else said he’s going to be sorely missed. “I’ve been here 21 years, so just before Alford became sheriff,” JSCO Capt. Troy Fuller said. “There’s so much I could say but the main thing that comes to mind is the changes for the better he’s brought about, the organization, the training, the making sure we had the assets to do our jobs. Things have changed 14

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so much under Sheriff Alford taking us from a department where we were dependent on others a lot of the time to being a department that’s dependent on itself.” Former Johnson County Commissioner Don Beeson worked four years with JCSO as a detective investigating crimes against children. “The one word that comes to mind to me when you say Sheriff Bob is integrity,” Beeson said. “He brings it. He demands high standards from the people around him, but he also delivers those same high standards.” Johnson County Commissioner Jerry Stringer said he first heard of Alford in 2001 when Stringer began working for the Burleson Police Department. “From what I heard about him he seemed to be a living legend, so I had to meet him,” Stringer said. “My first impression was that he must be a retired Texas Ranger because he not only had the look but also carried himself with the confidence and professional demeanor that I’ve seen in Rangers. I was very impressed when I saw a lady come up to him and he removed his cowboy hat before talking to her. You just don’t see that much anymore.” From that first meeting to now, Alford always warranted that legendary status, Stringer said. “His word is good as gold and the only contract he needs is a strong handshake. People on the right side of the law love him. Those on the other side fear him, with good reason. Sheriff Alford’s set a high bar for law enforcement and has made Johnson County an area where criminals don’t want to do business. They have no interest in spending any time in our county jail.” Cleburne Police Department Assistant Chief Danny Rogers previously worked with Alford in the undercover narcotics task force. “He seemed larger than life and we viewed him as a living legend and worked hard for him,” Rogers said. “I guess the happiest moment I had working for him was when I did an undercover deal and he walked by and told me, ‘Good job.’” The two remained friends after Alford became sheriff and Rogers continued on at CPD. Alford, to borrow a popular business term, became the brand by which Johnson County is known, Rogers said. “Bob may be retiring, but his brand will never fade from this county or our hearts,” Rogers said. “Ride tall Bob. You’ve earned it.”

Marty Alford described her husband as dedicated, dogged and caring. “I’ve seen the sleepless nights he’s gone through especially in cases of anything involving children and the loss of Deputy Clifton Taylor,” she said. “Bob really does care about every single deputy and the county. And I’m going to be prejudiced of course being his wife but his determination and insight has truly been a blessing for Johnson County.” Turn the page Don’t expect Alford to coast through his final year. “I’m going to be working to the last day of my term,” Alford said. “I’ve said that and I mean that.” Don’t expect him to ride off into the sunset never to be heard from again either. Alford said he’s too invested in the community to completely disappear from public life, adding that he may well continue to attend commissioners court meetings to keep commissioners on their toes. “But I am looking forward to some more time with my wife and kids,” Alford said. “I’ve got a wife who hasn’t gotten the attention she deserves. I’ve got five kids that were cheated out of a daddy, step-daddy for some of them. I gave all to the job. “I said I wasn’t going to let that happen to my grandkids and I’ve already got two of them married. So I’m going to try to make up time with them, give them my time. Time’s the most valuable gift you’ve got to give anybody.” Alford said he hopes to continue his recent part-time pursuit of appearing in local movies and commercials the latest of which was his recent appearance in the film “Nail 32.” Marty Alford said she’s looking forward to her husband’s upcoming retirement but worries over how he will handle the transition. Travel plans are in the mix it appears. Having worked as a federal air marshal after her time with the Fort Worth Police Department, Marty Alford joked that she’s had her fill of air travel. All the same, she hopes to take her husband to Israel and Australia in the near future. Alford for his part doesn’t seem to mind, so long as he can spend time with his wife. “You know, I haven’t seen all of the United States yet,” Alford said. “I’ve seen most of Texas, but I wouldn’t mind going back and seeing more of Texas.”

Photo by Jessica Pounds

Community Life

Don’t get it

twiztid Alvarado’s Dell Stanley is soft-hearted despite rough exterior

STORY AND PHOTOS BY Jessica Pounds

utting all of his faith in God, Dell Stanley of Alvarado said he has been resilient even after life has thrown him one obstacle after another. Working as a medic for CareFlite in Dallas, Stanley said his dream was to become a trauma nurse on a flight team. “I started working at Texas Health Huguley Hospital Fort Worth South in housekeeping as a teenager,” Stanley said. “Being around that atmosphere I wanted to learn more, so I started going to first responder classes which I completed at Hill College.” At first, Stanley began working for an ambulance service in Hillsboro while he furthered his education, becoming an emergency medical technician. “When I had achieved my EMT I obtained a job with CareFlite,” Stanley said. “And then I continued my education through my EMT intermediate and paramedic classes with the goal of obtaining my nursing license to become a trauma nurse.” In 1999, Stanley said he never made it to his nursing classes because of an accident while working for CareFlite. “I was working on a life support unit within the company when tragedy struck,” Stanley said. “Not having time to wait for Dallas Fire Department to arrive, we began to extract a cardiac arrest patient from a residence ourselves.” During this event, Stanley suffered a major back injury that put his career as a civil service member in jeopardy.

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“No longer being able to perform essential duties as a medic, the question of my future had come up and having a means to provide for my family was my top priority,” Stanley said. “I decided to try my hand at something a little less strenuous and began working for a local custom sign and graphics company.” Stanley said he managed to get through a few years, but all the while still dealing with the aftermath of a back injury. “I needed a career in which the physical de-

respected master artist by the name of Jim Chatman, also known as ‘Hippie,’” Stanley said. “I continued to endure through my physical limitations at the sign company and had become obsessed, giving every last ounce of my being into learning the craft of tattooing.” While being a full-time employee and having a commute of more than two hours to continue his education as an artist, Stanley said the schedule was overwhelming him.

under my good friend Hippie I was given the opportunity to open my own studio.” Stanley said he searched until he found a building he had fallen in love with. “Right here in, you guessed it — the great town of Alvarado,” Stanley said. “The good folks at the city let me acquire the building and move in, grandfathering me in. This was a blessing seeing that the grandfather clause I was kindly given allowed my studio the exclusive rights to this wonderful city.”

Under the stage name “Twiztid Freek,” Dell Stanley opened Alvarado’s first tattoo shop in October 2004.

mand would not be as high while at the same time still being able to make a decent lifestyle for my family,” Stanley said. “I thought, ‘Why not tattoo?’” Well the Lord, Stanley said, graced him with an idea. “Following his lead I was able to grab an apprenticing position with a well-known and 18

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“Showering at any friend’s place that was willing to lend me their bathroom, sleeping anywhere that was graciously offered to me and working in quality time with my family, I was starting to wear myself thin,” Stanley said. “Having the support of my friends and family, I endured the hardship of learning a new trade, and within a couple of years of working

Photo by Jessica Pounds

The prep work began, Stanley said, as he painted and decorated the place to be unveiled as Alvarado’s first tattoo studio, which he opened in October 2004. “During the midst of all the excitement I was hit with the news that my good friend Hippie was involved in a terrible motorcycle collision,” Stanley said. “With the strive of not

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letting down my brother, who had done and given so much for me, my will power to ensure the opening of this new location, while still working full-time, had been stronger than ever.” Stanley said Hippie pulled through and was left with only a few broken bones. “It was time I started setting goals for myself,” Stanley said. “I had many experiences within the new shop and had the opportunity to teach several artists that had gone on to become award winning tattooers. I am so proud of the achievements of the artists I have had the opportunity to work with.” Just as everything looked like smooth sailing, Stanley said he found himself caught in an ugly divorce. “This troubled me and led me to worry that everything I had worked so hard for would be lost,” Stanley said. “If not to make matters worse, I was struck by the news that a dear friend, and the man who had graciously given me the means to help me open my establishment, Steve McMillan, had passed away from an unexpected heart attack.” The stress of the life events he was endur-

ing gave Stanley the realization that the studio needed his best efforts if it were to be successful. “Being so very proud of me, my strength grew when I learned that because of all my hard work and accomplishments thus far, my dear friend Steve, within his will, settled all my debts owed to him and had given me my very own business,” Stanley said. “Still going through a divorce and dealing with the grief of a lost loved one, I decided to fight even more for my new found love and my true passion — my art.” Feeling like he was finally strong enough to conquer all life’s turmoil, Stanley said the Lord decided to test his faith again when he learned that his close buddy Jereme Ives had been the victim of a hit-and-run motorcycle accident. “Jereme was a dedicated friend and had spent many hours with me at the studio,” Stanley said. “In the haze of this accident I felt the obligation to lend a shoulder to his fiancee, Nicole Capers. She was not doing well in light of this accident and needed a friend to grieve with.”

Stanley said he accompanied her to Ives’ trial and she returned the kindness by lending her friendship, being with him at court throughout his divorce. “Out of the darkness of these two terrible events, a light began to shine and a friendship grew,” Stanley said. “Fast forwarding a couple of years down the road, Nicole and I had become very close and even during our hardship never felt the urge to take advantage of one another. I had truly found a friend like myself.” From an outside view, it had seemed that Stanley and Capers were more than a couple of people who had built a great relationship on mutual trust and caring. “It wasn’t until Nicole had finally said, ‘I am tired of the rumors of our relationship being more than just friends,’” Stanley said. “To which I replied, ‘Well, what are you going to do?’ She answered back, ‘I think we should go out.’ This statement led me to stand proudly beside the best partner in crime I could ask for.” Just when he thought things couldn’t get much better, Stanley said he was humbled by

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the news that out of 45 nominated tattoo and piercing studios in the state, his shop was able to bring the No. 2 spot for tattoos and piercings to Alvarado. “I could not have reached this dream without all the artists who have helped me throughout the years, even though I will proudly boast we have the best crew I have ever had the pleasure of working with,” Stanley said.

A gentle soul

Smooth roads ahead — or so Stanley thought. “Just as I felt the studio had been the strongest yet, I learned the landlord had sold the property even after years of inquiring with him to let me purchase it myself,” Stanley said. “After learning this, I had also been informed that the new owner of the property had gone up on the rent and not by a little.” Stanley said he knew it was time for him to move and test his faith in the business. “After praying and trusting the Lord I found a location in Whitney,” Stanley said.

“Reluctant to leave the location that had meant so much and held such life learning experiences for me, we started packing and thinking of our future to come. The good man must have a sense of humor and love to test our faith because sure enough, the day before signing the lease on the new building and leaving the city I had grown my business in, he introduced me to Ms. Frances Brockway. “She had a building for sale, and with the referrals of [Alvarado City Manager] Clint Davis and the city of Alvarado, I was overcome with joy to learn that I was going to stay where I belonged. I was washed over with relief and even though still facing questionable times, I was surprised by all the generous people that stepped in to help us out when we needed them the most.” Davis said he has known Stanley for about 10 years. “I first met him while working at the bank,” Davis said. “Like many, I was skeptical of him at first because he talked a big talk. I remember the first real conversation we had because it left the question in my mind, ‘Is this guy for real?’

The

C I R O T HISWright Plaza 115 S Main St, Cleburne, Texas

“What’s funny is that he was. He proved to me over and over by doing exactly what he said he would do.” Stanley is active in the community, Davis said, and wants to do much more to improve it. “I think he will be a vital part of revitalizing our historic square,” Davis said. “He has some really creative ideas and really thinks outside the box.” Davis said he thinks Stanley has a genuine love of humanity. “He accepts just about everyone no matter their flaws, their history, or their beliefs,” Davis said. “Over the years I witnessed just how big of a heart he has and I don’t know of anyone that has a bigger love of helping others. He helps others daily; he truly cares and cares consistently.” Stanley cares so much, Davis said, he hosts an annual toy drive to give toys to less fortunate kids for Christmas. For the past 10 years, he has dropped bags and bags of toys off at the Venus fire and police departments. Veronica Gibson, activity director at Alvarado Meadows Nursing and Rehabilitation

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115 S. Main St., Suite 10 817-774-8732

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Center, said Stanley has volunteered at the center for about seven years. “He does everything from playing Nintendo Wii bowling with the residents to singing karaoke with them,” Gibson said. “He has done a house coat and slipper drive for them for Christmas and he has even painted a few of their nails, too.” Gibson said at first she was afraid the residents might not be receptive to Stanley — because of his appearance. “They actually really loved that he is unique and able to be himself and accepted him as one of their own,” Gibson said. “We even had a couple of residents who wanted tattoos after they saw him. He is just an awesome guy with a loving heart.” Stanley said he also participates in every community event he can, from driving his hearse in the Johnson County Pioneers & Old Settlers Reunion parade to racing a casket car in the Johnson County Soapbox Classic. He is also a member of the Alvarado Chamber of Commerce and a member of a new committee developed to help the city plan events at the square. It is humbling, Stanley said, to live in Alvarado with a tight-knit community where everyone cares for one another. “I have always done my best to try and help out within our community, but could never have imagined that this much of the community would step in and give so much back to me,” Stanley said. “I am truly blessed to know that right here, in Alvarado, our home rests — where we started and where we will stay, with so many family and friends.”

Int roducing ‘Twiztid Freek’

“After I became a tattoo artist I started doing my genealogy and realized there was a great-great-uncle of mine who was a sideshow performer,” Stanley said. “His name was Édouard Beaupré and he was known as ‘Beaupré the Giant’ for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey [Circus].” According to The Human Marvels, Beaupré’s growth was normal until he reached the age of 7, when he began to grow rapidly soon after he started school. At 9 he was nearly 6 feet tall, at 12 he was 6 feet, 6 inches, and at 17 he stood at 7 feet, 1 inch. During his adolescence, Beaupré was awkward, a little naive and disconcertingly silent. 22

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Courtesy photos

Left: Dell Stanley drops Christmas presents off at the Venus Fire Station after the annual toy run he organizes. Right: Dell Stanley visits with an Alvarado Meadow’s Nursing and Rehabilitation resident during Halloween.

He felt at ease, not on a school bench, but out in the open on the ranches near Willow Bunch, where he learned to throw a lasso. Unfortunately, he had to give up that work at the age of 17 because when he rode a horse his feet touched the ground. Around this time a horse kicked him in the face and broke his nose. The accident left him disfigured and his unsightly face, together with his gigantic size, intensified his feelings of insecurity. Beaupré then began a tour of several Canadian cities, where he performed feats of strength, lifting a 600-pound horse on his shoulders and bending iron bars. During a show at the Louisiana Purchase exposition in St. Louis, he collapsed and died of a massive pulmonary hemorrhage at the age of 23. At the time of his death, Beaupré was 8 feet, 3 inches tall and weighed 375 pounds. His height made him the fifth-largest known giant. Stanley said he was intrigued to learn about his family history. “So I learned sideshow tricks with the hopes of keeping it alive,” Stanley said. From spitting fire to sticking his arm into a loaded bear trap, Stanley — who is known as “Twiztid Freek” by those who love him —

said when performing in sideshows he does whatever he can to push the envelope. Stanley also collects oddities from toe tags to used dentures to a copy of the death certificate of Myrtle Corbin. Corbin was a fourlegged woman who lived in Cleburne and traveled the world as a sideshow performer. She was buried in the Cleburne Memorial Garden in 1928. “What I really want people to know is that I am just as much a Christian as anyone else,” Stanley said. “I might be extreme with my sideshows and the way I look, but I just want people to realize that you can be this way and still love God — he has always carried me through my troubles.” Family is also important to Stanley, who has four children — including an adopted son and one stepdaughter. “My [adopted] son John is 25, my daughter Skyler is 15, my other son Ryan is 11 and my bonus daughter Kyrssa is 5,” Stanley said. “My grandchildren call me ‘Pewpaw Twiztid’ and they are Karyna West who is 7, Christian Enriquez who is 6, Karessa Enriquez who is 5, and little Johnny is 2. They have all grown up in this lifestyle of tattoos and sideshows and I am so proud of them for who they are.”

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Just what a techie needs

y dad is one of the hardest people to shop for. Growing up, my brother, sister and I would plot for months about what to get him. Somehow he would always figure out what his gift was before his birthday or Christmas. But one thing we can always get Dad is something technology-related. I’ve grown up to be the same way. Just give me something that challenges my mind and I’ll be happy for a long time. So while compiling my gift list for this year, I found several great techie gifts that would be great for the hard-toplease person in your life. Phones/tablets You can count on developers to roll out new phones and tablets every year, just in time for the holidays. This year’s new phones include the Samsung Galaxy Note 5, iPhone 6S, Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge, Microsoft Lumia 950 and others. New tablets this year include the Apple iPad Air 2, Samsung Galaxy Tab S2, Dell Venue 8 7000 and Microsoft Surface 3. If you’re looking for just an e-reader, try Amazon Kindle’s Paperwhite or Voyage If your techie already has the latest phone or tablet, get them the perfect accessory to go with it. Some ideas: charging valet, selfie stick, bluetooth speakers, etc. Wearable technology Since the introduction of Apple Watch, smartwatches have taken off. Some — like the Fitbit Charge HR — are just fitness trackers, while others — like Apple Watch — function much like a phone. Jawbone Up2 is an alternative available for both Android and iOS devices. It is discreet, looking much like a bracelet. It does not have a display so you must connect your phone to track

your activity. Garmin Vivofit 2 is another fitness tracker. It’s biggest boast is a long battery life. It has a display that shows the clock and activity. Back to smartwatches, Moto 360 is an Android device that also works with iOS devices. In addition to fitness tracking, users have access to third-party apps.

ity to interactive TVs that control other electronics. Now in its third generation, the Nest Learning Thermostat learns your habits and adjusts the thermostat automatically based on your schedule. Piper NV is the latest and greatest in home security. A camera, Piper NV comes with night vision, a siren, a speaker, a microphone and a Z-Wave sensor to allow you to connect other devices to it. The 2015 version of Apple TV has a few tricks up its sleeve. Not only can you watch TV shows and movies, the newest Apple TV acts as a bridge, allowing you to connect smart home devices to the cloud. Imagine telling Siri to lock your doors while you’re driv-

Smart home tech Remember that ’90s movie “Smart House?” It’s about a computerized home that gets power hungry and locks it’s residents in the house, thinking it is protecting them. We’re not far from that folks. It’s amazing the technology available for homes today, ranging from remote access to locks, lighting and electric-

ing down the road or turn off the lights when you don’t want to get up. Whatever gift you get for your techie, don’t forget accessories. Extra chargers, batteries, etc., are always a great idea to include. If you get a camera, add an extra memory card or two. If you get a phone get a gift card for the app store. Whenever it comes to techie gifts, you just can’t go wrong.

By Monica Faram Technology

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Visit our Website at at www.burlesonchamber.com Visit our Website www.burlesonchamber.com Advertise youryour business in our newsletter contact: Advertise business in our newsletter contact: Cleburne Times-Review 817-645-2441 Cleburne Times-Review 817-645-2441

DECEMBER EVENTS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4 NO LUNCH & LEARN THE MONTH OF DECEMBER TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS NETWORKING at Jellystone Park at Rustic Creek Ranch (2301 South I-35W, Burleson) (5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.) **Free to Burleson Chamber Members

Free Hayrides through Jellystone’s Holiday Light Extravaganza and H-E-B’s Famous Holiday Cake & light refreshments provided by H-E-B. Last Chamber Event of 2015! Don’t Miss It! Sponsors and Hosts: Rustic Creek Ranch/Jellystone Park & H-E-B

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA at the BRiCk (550 N.W. Summercrest Blvd.) (7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.)

Advance tickets are $4 for children and $5 for adults; Tickets are $5 for children and $7 for adults on Dec. 5. Geared to children from birth to 12 years old (children 2 and younger get in free). Serving pancakes, sausage, orange juice & coffee. Santa will be in the BRiCk’s Winter Wonderland until 11 a.m.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING AND FIREWORKS corner of Johnson Avenue & Ellison Street (6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.)

JANUARY EVENTS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 8 LUNCH & LEARN – GET CONNECTED WITH LINKEDIN at Burleson Public Library (248 SW Johnson Ave., Burleson) (11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) Karen Albert, Director of Marketing, Lillian Custom Homes and Professional Training Consultant ** Free Small Business Workshop Bring Your Own Brown Bag Lunch Co-Hosted with the Burleson Public Library

TUESDAY, JANUARY 12 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS NETWORKING Location to be Announced – Check the Chamber’s Online Calendar (5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.) Free to Burleson Chamber Members

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14 WINTER QUARTERLY LUNCHEON at Victory Family Church (455 NW John Jones Drive, Burleson) (11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) Featuring Mayor Ken Shetter, A Recap of 2015 and the Vision for Upcoming Years $20 Members/$25 Non-Members Title Sponsor: Texas Health Huguley Hospital Fort Worth South Affiliates Sponsors: Citizens National Bank of Texas and Hill College of Burleson

Free! Entertainment, tree lighting, fireworks, and visit with Santa

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR Senior Activity Center (next to the post office, 216 S.W. Johnson Ave) (9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.)

One-of-a-kind handmade items – art, jewelry, wood crafts and more

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 CHRISTMAS AT RUSSELL FARM (405 W. CR 714, Burleson) (12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.)

FREE! Bring your own camera for pictures with Joey the rein-donkey. Christmas trees, hay rides, handmade crafts, and tours of the farm

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BURLESON NETWORKING GROUPS

BURLESON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS / WEDNESDAYS 7:30-9 a.m. at Holiday Inn Express in Burleson For more information, contact Ruth Moor at 817-447-3476

NEW BUSINESS MEET & GREET / THURSDAYS 11:30 a.m. - 12:40 p.m. AT HIDDEN CREEK - THE TERRACE A Networking Group for new business ventures. For more info, contact Annmarie Newell at 817-249-4400 BURLESON BUSINESS BUILDERS / FRIDAYS 8:30-9:30 a.m. AT FRESCO’S For more information, contact Linda Molina at 817-447-7371

RSVP Online for these events at www.burlesonchamber.com/calendar or call the Burleson Chamber, (817) 295-6121 for more information.

Join the Burleson Area Chamber of Commerce

550 Members strong, the Burleson Area Chamber of Commerce offers networking, business education seminars and connections to business leaders in our community. Interested in learning more about the Chamber? Contact us at (817) 295-6121.

The mission of the Burleson Area Chamber of Commerce is to be an advocate for our members and for business in Burleson. We are in business for business!

Contact Us at 817-295-6121 For more information email the Burleson Area Chamber of Commerce at burlesonchamber@burleson.org.

Members can find the 2015 STAR Award Applications on the Chamber’s website under ‘Members’. For more information or to have the application emailed to you, contact the Chamber staff. Now in its fourth year, the STAR Small Business of the Year Awards honor three categories of small businesses each year: the Rising STAR for companies in business three years or less; the Shooting STAR for companies with 1 – 10 employees; and the Shining STAR for companies with 11 – 50 employees. Members complete an application that is then judged by a panel of local business leaders, with one winner for each category being selected. It’s an exercise in defining your company’s mission, goals, successes, and obstacles.

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2015 Shooting Star - Woolards Custom Jewelers Rising STAR (In Business 3 Years or Less) 2013 Burleson Outdoor Power 2014 iKids Pediatric Dentistry 2015 Pit to Palace Cleaning Shooting STAR (1 – 10 Employees) 2013 Christian Brothers Automotive – Burleson 2014 Top Producers Real Estate 2015 Woolard’s Custom Jewelers Shining STAR (11 – 50 Employees) 2013 Lost Oak Winery 2014 Bennett Building Systems 2015 Campbell’s Auto Body & Mobile Glass

(817) 386-8170 1024 S.W. Alsbury, Burleson, TX 76028 (817) 558-0226 827 North Main, Cleburne, TX

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Even when heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not doing reenactments in the Fort Worth Stockyards, Alvarado resident Jim Tipton is often dressed head to toe in western wear.

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Photo by Shelli Bird

Alvarado resident finds ways to stay busy after retirement

STORY BY Ashley Rose

lvarado resident Jim Tipton has done it all from truck driving to fire fighting to western re-enactments. Now retired, he spends his time giving back by riding in the Patriot Guard Riders. Born Aug. 11, 1951, in Itasca in an old two-story house on his father’s farm, Tipton has lived in the Johnson County area his entire life. In 1954, his family moved to Alvarado, where they lived until 1974. In 1969, he graduated Alvarado High School and went to Hill College to study mechanics/electronics. Tipton said he was interested in those subjects because he took a mechanics class in high school. “I really liked that class because I’ve always been interested in cars,” he said. “But as I was taking those classes in college, my interests changed. I didn’t want to pursue being a mechanic anymore. I was young, so I ended up going from one job to the other until I found one I liked.”

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After he left college, he went to work for Lonestar Gas as a service technician for about three years. After that, he worked for Thomas Conveyor Co. in Burleson for about one year and then went to work for the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport as a security guard at Braniff International Airways for one year. He left that job and came to Fort Worth and drove a tow truck. “Eventually, I graduated up in that field to where I was driving a big, heavy duty tow truck that hauled the 18-wheelers for about seven years,” he said. “That lead me to driving cross country in an 18-wheeler for another five or six years. That’s when I decided to work for the Fort Worth Fire Department. “It took me two and a half years of testing

through.” Tipton said since he was only working part-time there, after a year he decided to work part-time for MedStar Ambulance Service. “I decided to increase my level of emergency medical care,” he said. “I felt like I was getting the best of both worlds. You get the fire side and the medical side at the same time and you’re helping people. That’s really the thing that was driving me.” Tipton said there are three levels of emergency medical care services: basic emergency medial technician, EMT intermediate and a paramedic. “I was in the process of going through EMT intermediate school and still working

Courtesy photo

Jim Tipton, right, and fellow Cowboy Action Shooting Society members tell students the history of the Fort Worth Stockyards.

to get accepted because it’s a very competitive field to get into.” Tipton said he was told 4,000 other people took the same test that he took to try to get hired into the FWFD. “The people that get on the fire department can honestly say they are lucky,” he said. “And I do feel very, very lucky to have gotten into that field.” Tipton said while living in Grandview for a while between his other jobs, he was a volunteer firefighter with the Grandview Volunteer Fire Department before he came to work for the FWFD. “You have to be an emergency medical technician to get on the [FWFD],” he said. “That’s the first month of training you go 30

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at MedStar when it seemed like every call we had involved a child,” he said. “If you talk to anyone who has been in the EMT world for 15 or 20 years, they don’t like dealing with kids. I didn’t like it either. “My instructor also worked at Cook Children’s [Medical Center] on the Teddy Bear Transport. He kept asking me if I wanted to work at Cook’s. I told him that wasn’t going to happen, but he told me, ‘What’s a better way to work with kids than jump right in the middle of it’. Just so he would shut up about it, I asked him to bring me an application. “About six weeks after that, Cook’s gave me a call right when we finished our classes.” According to Cook Children’s website, the Teddy Bear Transport is staffed with 54 neo-

natal/pediatric nurses, respiratory therapists and paramedics with more than 400 combined hours of transport experience. The team transports medically fragile children and neonates to the medical center quickly and safely. Tipton said he was used to the fast pace at MedStar, so when he went to work for Cook Children’s he was surprised how different it was. “At MedStar, we would have to be on scene within 10 minutes,” he said. “With Cook’s, we had to be out the door within 10 minutes.” Tipton said he told himself he was only going to work for Cook Children’s for a short time. “Little did I know, 21 years later I would retire from Cook Children’s,” he said. “Since I was still working with the [FWFD], there were a lot of days where my days were back to back. I would go days without sleep sometimes.” Tipton said his friends told him not to retire from both jobs at the same time. So, he retired from the FWFD after 25 years and Cook Children’s after 21 years.

After being retired for a while, he said he missed interacting with people so he ventured to the Fort Worth Stockyards. “Everybody tells me that I was born 100 years too late,” he said. “I’m more comfortable in Old West clothes than I am in other types of clothes.” Tipton became a member of the Single Action Shooting Society with other Old West enthusiasts. The SASS is an international organization created to preserve and promote the sport of Cowboy Action Shooting, according to its website. SASS members share a common interest in preserving the history of the Old West and competitive shooting. Tipton said each participant of the society is required to adopt a shooting alias that is appropriate to a character or profession of the late 19th century, a Hollywood western star or an appropriate character from fiction. Tipton said his cowboy alias is “Creek.” Tipton said he has done re-enactments with the group and has been in three movies for the Legends of Texas. Legends of Texas was founded in 1981 in Fort Worth with the goal of preserving the western heritage between 1835 and the early

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1900s by making movie and film productions. “I had my first speaking role in a movie called ‘Headed to Mexico,’” he said. “We were told the movie just took first place for the feature film category in the Billy the Kid Western Film Festival in Hico, Texas.” Legends of Texas member Shelli Bird said Tipton is one of her best friends. “I’ve known him for a couple of years now,” Bird said. “He has such a good heart. He is actually trying to help me become a member of the group. There’s a process that I have to follow and he’s doing a great job on teaching me that process so I can get voted into the group.” Bird said she hasn’t picked an alias just yet, but if she had to pick a name today she would pick her great-grandmother’s name “Lizzie.” “After my grandparents passed away, they

gave me some of the things that she wore during that time period,” Bird said. “The goal is to be as authentic as you can in order to be in the group.” Bird said they meet all kinds of people at the Stockyards. “Every weekend that we go, we meet people from all corners of the earth,” Bird said. “We like to play as ambassadors for the stockyards for when people come and visit.” Bird said he also enjoys the re-enactments. “I was also in the movie ‘Headed to Mexico’ with [Tipton],” Bird said. “I played the main character’s wife. Re-enactments are so much fun.” Fellow Legends of Texas members Lyle and Jeannie Haliday said they have known Tipton for about nine years. “He is one of the best guys that we know,”

Courtesy photo

Jim Tipton said he feels more comfortable in his western clothes than street clothes.

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Jeannie Haliday said. “His knowledge of being an EMT basically saved my life one day when we were at the stockyards.” Jeannie Haliday said she has a genetic disorder where when she has a nose bleed, the blood doesn’t stop running. “He kept handing me towels and told me to keep my head up,” she said. “After a while he said that was it and, he called the fire department. There were firefighters and EMTs in the bathroom with all of us. He just kept telling me to stay calm. “If he hadn’t been there, I wouldn’t of known what to do. I’m glad he had his experience with the fire department to help me out.”

In 2000, Tipton said he became interested in joining the Patriot Guard Riders when his son, James Tipton, graduated from high school and went into the U.S. Army with the 82nd Airborne Division. He deployed to Afghanistan and returned home safely. “I was growing up in the Vietnam era, but I was the scrawny little kid who couldn’t pass the physical to get into the military so I never went,” he said. PGR is a group of volunteers who come to memorial services for fallen soldiers to escort them to the cemetery. According to its website, the volunteers have two goals: º Show sincere respect for the fallen heros, their families and their communities. º Shield the mourning family and their friends from interruptions for the freedom of others, at home and abroad during the funeral ceremony. “I’ve been with the Patriot Guard for seven years now,” he said. “For a funeral, we stand on the flag line for about 30 minutes before the service starts as everybody comes in, and they see us standing there for their protection.” Jim Tipton said he had the chance to ride his motorcycle for the funeral services of Chad Littlefield. Littlefield was killed, along with ex-Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle, by an Iraq war veteran at a shooting range in February 2013.

James Tipton is now 34 years old and lives in Kingston, Okla., with his wife, Jessica, and their three children, Wesley, Devin and Ca-

son. Jim Tipton said his son just got a job in the oil field area and will be traveling back and fort to Saudi Arabia for one month at a time. Jim Tipton also has a daughter, Melissa Crawford, who is 32 years old. “She’s a full-time student and as far as I know still working to get her dietician license,” he said. Crawford is married to C.C. Crawford and they have two daughters: Tyra and Kyra. “Kyra is my little rodeo girl,” Jim Tipton said. “She races barrels at the M7 Arena in Alvarado every now and then.” Jim Tipton lives in Alvarado with his Golden Retriever, Lady, who will soon be 4 years old.

As for other hobbies, Jim Tipton said he loves drag racing. “Before I got married, I had a couple of Camaros I could use for drag racing,” he said. “I mostly raced at the Kennedale Drag strip and sometimes at the Green Valley Raceway in North Richland Hills. Now I use my toy, a 2010 Dodge Challenger, to race. “I started liking the sport when I was still interested in mechanics in college. It’s a very expensive sport, but I’ve always loved drag racing. I usually sit at home and watch the drag races on TV when I can’t go out and race.” As for the future, Jim Tipton said he will continue doing re-enactments and travel. “I do also like to travel in my RV,” he said. “Maybe I can do some more traveling in the future.”

Courtesy photo

Jim Tipton stands guard during a funeral as part of the Patriot Guard Riders.

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Cleburne Chamber of Commerce

Take me out to the ball game

he Cleburne Chamber of Commerce has a few things to look forward to in the coming years, including the anticipation of a bundle of new business partnerships through the future Cleburne Station, which passed on Nov. 3. Cleburne Station, a public/private project, will be a 75-acre retail and dining complex with a baseball stadium to be built near the Chisholm Trail Parkway. The city will fund the baseball park facet of the project Courtesy illustration while private developers The Cleburne Station, which was passed by voters on Nov. 3, will be a 75-acre retail and dining will fund the retail and complex to be built near the Chisholm Trail Parkway. In addition to a minor league baseball team, the stadium will host numerous events throughout the year ranging from concerts to car shows restaurant property porto other sporting events tion. The city will retain officials said. said. “Our fellow citizens here made ownership of the baseball Cleburne Chamber of Coma strong statement that want some park and land but will hire a commerce President Cathy Marchel said things to do — more entertainment, pany to operate the facility. Cleburne is a great place to be right retail and restaurants. They want In addition to a minor league now. to see this community expand and baseball team, the stadium will host “We have new opportunities comgrow so they can raise their families numerous events throughout the ing to our community with the pass- and have a good quality of life.” year ranging from concerts to car ing of Cleburne Station,” Marchel Throughout the campaign, city shows to other sporting events, city

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2015 CALENDAR officials and supporters of the proposal, argued that Cleburne Station will greatly increase retail and family entertainment options in Cleburne and bring the city jobs and increased revenues. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have seen Cleburne have the winning football team, and the great schools,â&#x20AC;? Marchel said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Seeing the new things that are going to come will create jobs and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what is going to help Cleburne flourish more than ever. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure this is just one of many projects that will come down the pipe through the Chisholm Trail Parkway.â&#x20AC;? Although some have worried the new retail may hurt existing smaller shops, Marchel said competition is not always a bad thing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our specialty stores that have been here are our core,â&#x20AC;? Marchel said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whether they have been here a week or 100 years, we are here to support them. But, competition makes you step up your game. And if we can pull more people into town to see what we have to offer at our stores that are unique to Cleburne then that is a good thing.â&#x20AC;? A lifelong fan of baseball, Cleburne native and country musician Randy Rogers will take on part ownership of the revived Cleburne Railroaders baseball team. The original Railroaders played in 1906 and won the Texas League title that same year having beat minor league teams from Fort Worth, Dallas, Temple, Waco and other area cities. City leaders hope to see construction of the stadium completed in time for the 2017 minor league baseball season.

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Cleburne Chamber of Commerce

Annual chamber banquet set for Jan. 21

he Cleburne Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the 97th annual Community Awards Banquet, an event the board of directors say is sure to be memorable. Cleburne Chamber of Commerce President Cathy Marchel said a pre-event reception begins at 5:15 p.m. Jan. 21 at the Cleburne Conference Center, 1501 W. Henderson St., and is open to everyone. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a great opportunity to come and meet many different businesses,â&#x20AC;? Marchel said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will have a social hour, then dinner and the awards.â&#x20AC;? Awards are given in the following categories: Young Business Professional, Community Service, Citizen of the Year and the ATHENA award. In 2014, the Community Service award went to Johnson County Christian Lodge, Citizen of the Year went to Peter

Svendsen and the ATHENA award went to Carolyn Smith. The Young Business Professional award, with strict criteria, has only been given out twice in the past. Requirements were not fulfilled by anyone to receive the award in 2014. Marchel said there will be a few surprises throughout the night. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We always try to think outside the box and do things differently every year,â&#x20AC;? Marchel said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s banquet is going to be exciting and we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait for it.â&#x20AC;? Marchel said the banquet draws in more than 500 people and grows each year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Years and years ago when we first had the banquet it was just for our sponsors,â&#x20AC;? Marchel said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now it is opened up for whoever wants to come and visit with each other.â&#x20AC;? Something new this year is a photo contest leading up to the banquet which is open to the public with no entry fee. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need some really good pictures of Cleburne for our advertising, so we challenged the community to send in their best photos,â&#x20AC;? Marchel said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are going to have all of the photos on display at the banquet.â&#x20AC;? A panel of judges will pick three winners in each of the three categories which will be announced at the banquet. The first category, people enjoying Cleburne, is for photos of people dining, shopping and playing in Cleburne. The second category, Cleburne heritage, is for photos that show the history of Cleburne. The third category, restore your soul, is for photos of things in Cleburne that make your heart happy. For contest rules, email heatherj@cleburnechamber.com. Tickets for the event are $45 for individuals and $725 for a reserved corporate table of 10. Prices are expected to increase before the event so be sure to reserve yours early. To RSVP, call 817-645-2455.

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Rockin‘

Nov. 23 — Dec. 31

Christmas

around the

Tree

Over 3.5 million lights in Hulen Park CLEBURNE, TEXAS

Lighting up Hulen Park

histle Stop Christmas began in 1996 and grows annually, attracting thousands of visitors to Cleburne from all over North Texas and points beyond. The event is strung together each year by the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce, along with assistance from city officials. Johnson County Sheriff’s Office trustys, Cleburne ISD students and dozens of other volunteers work tirelessly to put up more than 3.5 million lights in Hulen Park . Beginning as a quaint event with a few extra strings of lights sent as an accidental double order to Ben Franklin Crafts owned by Rebecca and Robert Roe, Whistle Stop has blossomed over the years to a countywide celebration honoring Christmas traditions past and those to come. Whistle Stop features live entertainment throughout the holiday season including train rides for children, singers serenading attendees at the annual lighting ceremony, holiday plays and a parade that winds through downtown Cleburne and back to Hulen Park where children can visit Mr. and Mrs. Claus and parents can shop for stocking stuffers and tasty treats. Troy and Nell Dixon co-chair the Whistle Stop committee. There are several volunteers that have dedicated many hours get the lights ready before they are put into the park. They began working at the Whistle Stop building in October and began creating the magic in the park mid-October. Whistle Stop has an estimated 3.5 million lights in Hulen Park alone. At least 250,000 cars pass on Westhill alone throughout December to look at the lights. Hulen Park is a lighted area of 12 acres. Whistle Stop Christmas is hosted by the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce and the city of Cleburne. Throughout the month of December, an estimated 250,00 cars pass on Westhill Drive 42

Community Life

to look at the lighted area of 12 acres. A 501(c)(3) organization, Whistle Stop Christmas is established under the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Whistle Stop 2015

The title sponsor since 2008 is Members Credit Union and the co-event sponsors are Heritage Trails Nursing and Rehabilitation, Ridgeview Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing and H-E-B Grocery store. Whistle Stop kicks off at 7 p.m. Nov. 23 at Hulen Park with the lighting ceremony. The Texas Tradition Chorus ladies choir performs

at 6:30 p.m., and Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance This year’s event theme is “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Cleburne Chamber of Commerce President Cathy Marchel said a lot of credit goes to the volunteers who help set up Whistle Stop. “Once again we’re very excited about the Whistle Stop Christmas,” Marchel said. “All of our wonderful volunteers have put in hours of work and we can’t wait for everyone to see it.” The park will remain lighted daily until the end of December. The lighted Christmas parade begins at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 4, followed by festivities in Hulen Park. Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available until 9 p.m. in the park gazebo for $5 each. Horse-drawn carriage rides are $5 per person and children’s train rides are $2 per ride. Free activities include 3417 train engine whistle blowing and a free concert, “Elvis the Experience” with David Allen. Vendors will be in the park from 5-9 p.m. Throughout the holiday season, children will be able to take train rides around the park on Friday and Saturday evenings for $2. Supervising adults ride for free. Horse-drawn wagon rides are also available on the weekends. Cost is $5 per rider. “Students who help with Whistle Stop can fill out an application for a senior scholarship,” Marchel said. “We also encourage home school and private school students to apply.” All are invited from far and near to visit Whistle Stop Christmas. There is no admission fee. There is ample parking for tour buses and vehicles of all sizes. This is a great place to bring your family for a memorable Christmas outing and to enjoy walking through Hulen Park throughout the evening. Visit our Whistle Stop website, www.whistlestopchristmas.org, for the activity schedule or call 888-5CLEBURNE.

Schedule of events All activities are held at Hulen Park unless otherwise noted. Lights on every evening Nov. 23 through Dec. 31 Lighting ceremony 7 p.m. Nov. 23 Over 3.5 million lights lit at Hulen Park. Performance by Texas Tradition Chorus at 6:30 p.m. Children’s train rides 6 p.m. Nov. 23 5-8 p.m. Dec. 4, 11, 18 4-9 p.m. Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26 Horse-drawn wagon rides 6-9 p;.m. Nov. 27 through Dec. 26 Plaza Theatre Co. presents “Sanders Family Christmas” 111 S. Main St. | www.plaza-theatre.com Friday and Saturday Nov. 20-28 Thursday-Saturday and Monday Dec. 3-23 Final performance Dec. 23

Greater Cleburne Carnegie Players present “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Cleburne Conference Center www.carnegieplayers.org Dec. 4-13 DEC. 4 Lighted Christmas parade 6:30 p.m. downtown Cleburne Vendors at Hulen Park 5-9 p.m. Hillsboro Street After parade until 9 p.m. Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus — Park Gazebo ($5 per picture) 3417 Train Engine Whistle Blowing (Free) Horse-drawn carriage rides ($5 per person) Children train rides ($2 per child, 1 adult free) DEC. 15 Brazos Chamber Orchestra Christmas Concert 7:30 p.m. First Baptist Church

Community Life

Lighted Christmas parade on Dec. 4 T

his year’s annual Downtown Cleburne Association’s Festival of Lights Christmas parade begins at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 4. This year’s theme is “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Entries are $35 and deadline to enter is Nov. 25. Entries will be limited to 100 and will be accepted by decision of DCA. The parade will begin at South Main and First streets, proceed to Third and Caddo, then head north to North Caddo and Brown. It will turn left and travel behind Layland Museum, then head south on North Main to South Main and Westhill. Entries will then return to the start. Prizes will be presented for Creativity Award, Best Child’s Entry, Best Mounted Entry, Best Illuminated, Best Christmas Theme and Favorite Vehicle. Before and after the parade, Christmas in the Park is from 5-9 p.m. in Hulen Park. Food and Christmas vendors will be set up, and Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for pictures after the parade. Live entertainment is provided, as well as a chance to blow the train whistle on the historic 3417 steam engine. Both events are part of Whistle Stop Christmas. Lights in Hulen Park are turned on every night at dusk until New Year’s Eve. For information, visit www.whistlestopchristmas.org.

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Whistle Stop 2015 Sponsors

histle Stop Christmas has been creating memories for thousands of Johnson County residents for 19 years with millions of tiny lights in Hulen Park. Presenting sponsor Members Credit Union, along with co-event sponsors H-E-B Grocery store, Heritage Trails Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Ridgeview Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing, all say they are happy to be a part of this big holiday celebration. Members Credit Union has been a part of the Johnson County Community since 1954. It was formed by seven employees of the Santa Fe Railroad as the Santa Fe Railroad Credit Union. After the Santa Fe shops were moved from Cleburne, membership was opened to all Johnson County residents and the name was changed to Johnson County Community Credit Union. In 1995, the name became Members Credit Union to convey that the credit union is member owned. “Members Credit Union is proud to be a part of the community, and our employees are active in Meals-onWheels [of Johnson and Ellis Counties], United Way [of Johnson County], Salvation Army Christmas Angel Tree, Relay For Life [of Johnson County] and have been proud to sponsor Cleburne’s Whistle Stop Christmas since 2008,” President Paul Elkins said. Heritage Trails Marketing Director Cody Akridge said their Whistle Stop theme is “Heritage Country Christmas” and they’ve been a Whistle Stop sponsor for nine years. “I think it’s great because of scholarships for the kids and everything that Whistle Stop does for the community,” Akridge said. “We’re happy to be a part of all that.” H-E-B Grocery store Unit Director Terry Bay said this is the first year the Cleburne store has participated in Whistle Stop. “We wanted to be a part of the community more than we have in the past,” Bay said. “I think it’s a great part of the year to be out there celebrating the community. “We continue to look at ways that we can be a bigger part of the community. I think Whistle Stop is one of those.” Ridgeview Administrator Gibson Vernon said their theme is “Rockin’ Ridgeview Reindeers” and this is also the first year they have sponsored Whistle Stop. “I reached out to the chamber and decided to co-sponsor,” Vernon said. “It’s really great to help the community.” Vernon said he likes how Whistle Stop uses the extra money to build scholarships for students in the community.

Members Credit Union From left: Paul Elkins, Teresa Leck and Cindy Hall

Heritage Trails Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

H-E-B Grocery store

Ridgeview Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Community Life

Candlewalk Tour of Homes

fter a hiatus last year, the Save Old Cleburne Christmas Candlewalk Historic Home Tour returns this year for its 38th year. The organization continues to preserve what it considers to be the historic parts of Cleburne. The Candlewalk Tour is known as the oldest holiday home tour in this area. This year’s Candlewalk sponsor is Heritage Trails Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Beginning in 1976, two couples, owners of turn-of-the-century homes who had become alarmed by the destruction and neglect of many of Cleburne and Johnson County’s historic homes and landmarks, came together to form Save Old Cleburne. The organization has grown over the years and claims about 30 area households as members. In addition, about 100 Cleburne-area homes bear Save Old Cleburne signs. Cindi Thomas came to Cleburne in the late 1970s and joined SOC shortly afterwards. At that time, she said, “the old houses were reasonably priced, and people who were buying the houses cared about their neighborhoods and wanted to do something to [revitalize] those neighborhoods.” Other Cleburnites, though, were “a little afraid” to join the organization, Thomas said, worried that SOC would want to impose restrictions on how these older homes could be restored, repainted or remodeled, or try to dictate what changes could be made. The Candlewalk Tour of Homes was started to introduce Save Old Cleburne and its mission and goals to the community, “to promote our neighborhoods and to get people interested in the history and heritage of these homes and buildings,” Thomas said. The first Candlewalk featured three homes and two churches — the Zimmerman House, the old Barr House on North Anglin Street, another home at the corner of McCoy and Anglin streets, First Baptist Church and Holy Comforter Church. In the early 1980s, the Candlewalk tour 46

Community Life

was featured on the cover of Texas Monthly magazine. That year, some 6,000 visitors came to town to take what was then a twoday tour. Over the years, according to Thomas and former SOC President Saundra Williams, the tour has evolved in a variety of ways to attract visitors. Some homeowners choose to dress in period clothing to add to the experience. Save Old Cleburne has evolved as an organization. In the spring 1977, the group became associated with the Johnson County Historical Society as a committee of the society. SOC members came from all walks of life and all kinds of backgrounds, and each one had their own concerns and reasons for joining. But they all banded together to meet once a month to combine their concerns and efforts and communicate about matters of importance. One of the main common objectives was promoting the preservation of Cleburne’s older homes and neighborhoods. SOC members also found they shared a sense of history and experience with each other. Old homes, SOC members believe, have a romance and a character that newer homes lack. They were built by hand and made to last, which is obvious when a visitor stops to look at the workmanship and detail individual carpenters put into the houses they built. “Older homes have soul. You can feel it,” Thomas said. “You don’t find that in newer homes.” SOC members help each other preserve that craftsmanship and character, that soul, by assisting each other with advice on restoration techniques, sources for materials and the elbow grease necessary to preserve their homes. The association has helped foster many long-lasting friendships over the years. Save Old Cleburne was incorporated as a nonprofit group in 1986 and has been using

the proceeds from the tour and other events and efforts for various preservation and neighborhood stabilization projects. SOC members have long believed a historic district plan is needed as a primary method of preserving historic Cleburne, and the organization, from 1979-87, spent more than $20,000 on research and documentation for historic surveys. These surveys are used to compile materials in the process of nominating historic sites in Cleburne. Expert interpretation of the surveys revealed that four concentrations of older structures could be defined as representing historical districts, SOC members say. Those areas are: • Anglin, Robinson and Wilhite streets • Prairie, Forrest, Bellevue and Featherston streets • Buffalo Street to Granbury Street • Downtown Cleburne SOC’s other activities and accomplishments over the years include helping preserve Amtrak service for the city of Cleburne, establishing a research area in the Layland Museum, presenting awards of merit recognizing the restoration of historic buildings, providing funds to clean and restore Market Square, placement of park benches on the courthouse square, donations and scholarships to students and junior historians, presenting awards for high school students to research local history, funding two citywide historic surveys in Cleburne, funding the Buffalo Creek Project and preservation of the “Little Old House” on Buffalo (Cleburne’s oldest home). Tickets are $10 through Dec. 4 and after they are $12 for adults and $5 for children. Tickets are available at the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce, 1501 W. Henderson St.; Layland Museum, 201 N. Caddo St.; Anglin Rose Bed and Breakfast, 808 S. Anglin St.; Heritage Home-Vintage Inspired Living, 116 E. Chambers; and Little Old House on the day of Candlewalk. For information, call 817-240-2295 or www.soc-cleburne.com.

Letter from the SOC president

ave Old Cleburne is very excited to be bringing Candlewalk back. It will be our 38th year of the Candlewalk Tour of Homes. We have a wonderful tour planned with a delightful mix of styles. Our homeowners have been busy decorating their homes for your pleasure. I invite you to come to this year’s Candlewalk. Every year offers something new and interesting for everyone, even those of you who have taken the tour and this year we have more to see and do. This year we have five wonderful homes each reflecting their homeowner’s tastes and personalities. This tour offers something for all ages and interests. In addition to the Tour of Homes, we have three downtown businesses you won’t want to miss — Gone with the Wind Remembered Museum and Gift Shop, Songbird Live and Wright Plaza.

We are also happy to bring two of our historic elementary schools celebrating their 100th anniversaries that have been brought back to life for our community. The JN Long Cultural Arts Center (formerly JN Long Elementary School) and Kaufman Leadership Academy (formerly Irving Elementary School). And our other features on tour are the Layland Museum, Church of the Holy Comforter with a fabulous concert at 6 p.m., First Baptist Church, St. Mark United Methodist Church, the Little Old House, Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum and, last but not least, Whistle Stop Christmas at Hulen Park. I would like to thank Heritage Trails Nursing and Rehabilitation for sponsoring us this year. We hope you enjoy this year’s Candlewalk Tour of Homes. Have a safe and happy holiday season.

Lynn Buker

Lynn Buker Save Old Cleburne president

Community Life

2015 Candlewalk features Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum 2500 S. U.S. 67 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum features Native American teepees; life-sized silhouette cattle drive; an old windmill; stagecoach station; the jail; the newest addition the school, where they hold classes; Big Bear Native American Museum; and Wardville Courthouse, the oldest log cabin. JN Long Cultural Arts Center 425 Granbury St. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. JN Long Elementary School has been given new life and is now home to the JN Long Cultural Arts Center. They are celebrating their 100-year anniversary for the school. Come in and see local artist exhibits and the Cleburne Camera Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art and gift shop. First Baptist Church 105 E. Willingham 1-4 p.m. The beginnings of First Baptist Church of Cleburne can be traced back to the beginnings of Cleburne itself .Come in and view the beautiful stained glass windows, the original Church pews. Gone with the Wind Remembered Museum 305 E. 2nd St. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Gone with the Wind Remembered Museum and Gift Shop contains one of the most comprehensive and extensive collections of GWTW memorabilla in the world. The museum is a state-of-the-art, climate controlled, specially lighted facility. General admission $7; Students, seniors 65 and older and military $5; children in stroller free. Bring your Candlewalk ticket and receive $1 off.

Heritage Home â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Vintage Inspired Living 116 E. Chambers St. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Antiques, home dĂŠcor and gifts. You can purchase your Candlewalk ticket here.

Layland Museum 201 N Caddo St. 1-7 p.m. Stop by and tour the historic displays throughout this wonderful museum. Candlewalk tickets can be purchased here.

Holy Comforter Episcopal Church 209 E. Wardville St. 1-6 p.m. Believed to be the oldest standing church building in Johnson County. Stop in and enjoy. Concert will begin at 6 p.m. Ticket required for the concert.

SongBird Live 210 E Henderson St. 1-5 p.m. Come in and listen to the Dickens Carolers. They will be performing at 2 and 4 p.m.

Kaufman Leadership Academy 1108 N Anglin 1-9 p.m. Formerly Irving Elementary School, Kaufman Leadership Academy has given new life to the 100-year-old building. This building was condemned and abandoned by the city in 2009 and purchased by Theresa and Greg Kauffman in 2010. The academy is the first open enrollment charter school in Johnson County. The school features beautiful murals done by local artist Sleepy Reed and is celebrating its 100-year anniversary. Little Old House 409 N Buffalo St. 1-6 p.m. Always included is the Little Old House, the oldest home in Cleburne built in 1867. The home is being restored by Save Old Cleburne and Johnson County Historical Commission. Decorated with period furnishings, Friends of the Historical Commission will be giving tours. You can purchase Candlewalk tickets at this location.

St. Mark United Methodist Church 1109 W. Henderson 1- 6 p.m. Come enjoy the sanctuaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eight beautiful faceted stained glass windows rising 10 feet above the pews portraying events from the Bible in bold jewel-toned Italian glass, a method predating the leaded stained glass creations. Wright Plaza 1 E. James St. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wright Plaza is in the historic Wright building. The Wright Plaza shops are an eclectic group that include a cafĂŠ,boutiques and a gallery. There is something for the whole family. Whistle Stop Christmas Hulen Park Celebrating its 14th anniversary, Whistle Stop Christmas features more than 3.5 million lights illuminating Hulen Park. Lights are turned on at dusk through Dec. 30.

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Community Life

2015 Candlewalk Tour of Homes

Save Old Cleburne’s 38th annual Candlewalk Tour of Homes will be from 1-9 p.m. Dec. 5 and will have turn-of-the-century homes. This year’s Candlewalk Tour of Historic Homes is sponsored by Heritage Trails Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Bisbee-Combest Home 415 N. Anglin St. This lovely Queen Anne Craftsman style home was built in 1895 by F.M. Bisbee, who worked for the Sante Fe Railroad. It was later sold to P.C. Chambers, the son of “the father of Cleburne.” It is also known to locals as the Zimmerman house, having been owned by that family for the longest period of time. Christopher and Gerri Combest are looking forward to spending their first Christmas here since Christopher’s retirement from the military. The four-bedroom home is 3,800 square feet. Downstairs is completely restored to turn of the century period standards with the exception of an updated kitchen. The original built-in cabinetry shows craftsman style at its best and is impressive. The fireplaces and wood floors add warmth to the

Bisbee-Combest Home rooms. Circus animal figures from the 1890s are among the things the Combests collect, as well as a cabinet full of miniature terrier figurines. Christopher, a Baylor University graduate, also has a large carved bear in the living room. Upstairs is renovated to more modern living, with a library/study, living area and two bedrooms. The turret is the sight of the largest

bedroom and is almost like being in a tent, quickly becoming a favorite of their daughter. The backyard has a large deck and fire pit, a garage with a full size apartment and chickens. Yes, chickens in town and they are keeping them supplied in eggs. Christopher is commissioner of planning and zoning and is striving to make Cleburne the best place to live.

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LORRI LANDEROS,

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Community Life

The Hudson Home 720 N. Robinson St. Jackie and Linda Hudson have their beautiful cottage style home ready for Christmas. Decorated Christmas trees of all sizes shine their warm lights, adding ambiance to every room.Â Early history of the house is not known, but it was built around 1910. Jackie bought the house in 1977 and has improved and restored it. Jackie is a master woodcarver and has been featured in several articles. His expertise includes hand carved rocking horses, water fowl, miniature houses, cabinetry and furniture. He has created faux cabinets that hide electronics and TVs. Also on tour is his workshop where you can view his latest work, Noahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ark. While Jackie has his wood shop and music room, Linda is an avid quilt maker. She has her handmade quilts on the beds, many of them made completely by hand before she bought a sewing machine.Â Everything in this house shows their attention to detail, giving long forgotten items new

Hudson Home life. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;little girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s roomâ&#x20AC;? is the room Linda always dreamed of having as a little girl. Soft colors, two crystal chandeliers, miniature doll houses and beautiful dolls. It is room for a princess (or wonderful granddaughters). The â&#x20AC;&#x153;big Christmas treeâ&#x20AC;? room has a pictorial history wall of both Jacky and Lindaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family, photos dating back to the 1830s. Beautiful antiques give this home a rich warm feel of history appreciated and treasured. A 3-foot tall 1940s Pinocchio that was

used in TV commercials is one of the unusual items to see in the house. The rocking horses with leather saddles and horse hair manes are true works of art. This is not the first time the Hudsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s have graciously opened their home for Save Old Cleburneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tour. They have made a few changes, new wood floors and a gazebo in the back yard. The backyard is a wonderful getaway after a long day, a large Koi pond, great sitting area, playhouse and the work shop.

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Community Life

The Jenkins-Jordan Home 210 Bellevue St. This brick Tudor Style home was built in 1920 by Ruby Jenkins, who owned the home until 1968. The house features beautiful etched glass windows, carved crown moulding, hardwood floors and arched Moroccan style doors and French doors. The Moroccan design is carried out to the brick work on the exterior of the home. The home has the original tile roof, which has weathered well. You will notice the shingles have developed an aged patina which adds character to the house. Robert and Candy Jordan have owned the home for only six months. They have been busy painting every room and getting everything ready for tour. They will be unpacking their Christmas decorations for their first Christmas here. Candy has always loved older homes, having once owned a larger Georgian style home in Waco. A former English teacher, she has just graduated from design school.Â British West Indies furniture give an island feel to this beautiful three-bedroom home.

Jenkins-Jordan Home Christmas will be presented in soft blues and greens. The living room opens through French doors to a cozy sitting porch. Another opening leads to the dining room which leads to the kitchen. The kitchen has an original built

in cabinet in the breakfast area showcasing red and white dishes. This is the third time the home has been on tour in 39 years and we know our ticket holders will love this pristine home.

WISHING YOU PEACE AND JOY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the First Financial Bank family to yours. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thankful to not only serve, but to truly be a part of the Johnson County community. First Financial, You First.

817-774-5100 FFIN.COM

Community Life

Many Faces of Santa Home The Many Faces of Santa Home 1224 Willow Wood Drive Step into the magic of Christmas in a whole house transformed to a Christmas dreamland. Save Old Cleburne is delighted to have Terry and Renee Hargrove’s home on this year’s tour. Renee’s fondest childhood memories are of the Toy Land display at Leonard’s Department Store. Trying to create the same excitement a child has at Christmas time, in October they decorate the house with thousands of figurines, tree decorations and framed puzzles, all of Santa. What started as a small display has grown over the years to overtake the whole house. Renee started getting Santa gifts from her customers and friends, her collection keeps growing with finds from estate and yard sales. “No Santa is ever turned away, I am careful to write the name and date on the bottom so I can remember who gave them to me,” she said. “I initially invited a few friends over to see my Christmas display, then they would bring people over to see, before long I was having an annual Christmas open house which has led to becoming a Cleburne tour home.” Terry and Renee decorate eight Christmas trees, seven with Santas and the eighth has a special meaning. “In August 2009, I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. The ornaments on the tree are placed by our guests in honor of their memory of someone they know who is a survivor, is battling cancer or has lost their battle to cancer.” Come and marvel at the Hargrove home, 54

Community Life

it will put you in a Christmas spirit where childhood memories long forgotten will find their way back to you. The Nail-Reed Home 302 Featherston St. Built in 1898, originally this beautiful stately house was a one story. The second story was not added until 1904. This house has 50 windows, much of the glass panes original. The house had been home to a single family but was eventually divided into four full apartments. It was purchased by the school district where it housed the custodian on the upper floor and the bottom floor was used for special education classes. The school district considered tearing the house down to add additional parking space when the Reeds heard it was in jeopardy. Sylvester and Wilma Reed bought the

Nail-Reed Home

home in 1985 and converted it back to a single family home, restoring its former beauty. This process involved tearing out three kitchens, two outside stairwells, one inside staircase, opening walls and removing closets. Now one of Cleburne’s finest homes, it has seen many brides photographed on the staircase. The Reeds have hosted school tours throughout the years, as well as Save Old Cleburne’s Candlewalk tours. Ornaments fill a large Christmas tree, some handmade from the Reed’s first Christmas together in 1948. Ornaments from Wilma’s Sunday school students at First Baptist Church are among her most loved decorations. The tree itself recounts the history of many shared Christmases. New to her home this year is a doll collection inherited from Wilma’s cousin, Janice. A total of 134 dolls were delivered to the Reed Home — collectibles of a wide variety, including Tonner, Madame Alexander, Shirley Temple, Barbie, Chatty Cathy to Raggedy Ann and Andy. Everywhere you look, you will find interesting and unique items such as a large silhouette picture collection, souvenirs from Mission work, lady pin cousin dolls, a star quilt handmade when Wilma was a baby. Gifts from friends through out the years are held most dear. Come see this large beautiful home, every room is open, from the formal dining room to the country kitchen with its diner style bar stools, the home is inviting. A place for family gatherings and storytelling.

Community Life

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The Church of the Holy Comforter, Anglican 209 E. Wardville St. The Church of the Holy Comforter, Anglican, at 209 E. Wardville is believed to be the oldest standing church building in Johnson County. It has been in continuous use by the congregation and was awarded a state historical marker in 1970. Constructed in 1893 at a cost of $5,000, the building is in the classic “English Countryside” carpenter gothic style. The nave is cruciform in design. Outstanding features include the herringbone pattern of the ceiling and the impressive scissor beaming throughout the nave and sanctuary. Exterior walls are of cypress brought in from East Texas or Louisiana by the contractor. Most of the gothic stained glass windows date to the original construction. Those in the doors between the narthex and the nave were added in 1981. In 1905, the sanctuary was enlarged, and the original cedar altar was replaced with a high altar. A pulpit, lectern and rood screen were added at that time. These were carved in

Wisconsin of quarter-sawn golden oak. The altar is classic, with a triptych reredos rising behind it. It features Romanesque pillars underneath the table and classic gothic decoration above the three niches in the reredos. The building has never been restored and has sustained only minor remodeling such as the addition of mosaic tiles in the narthex. A pipe organ, including 11 ranks of pipes for a total of 662 pipes and 22 voices in three divisions, is housed in a console made of milled walnut and repeating the use of gothic arches. Vivid red exterior doors welcome both visitors and worshipers, with the color of the doors symbolizing the parish’s patron, the Holy Spirit. Holy Comforter will be open for touring from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for Candlewalk. As the parish will already be keeping the liturgical season of Advent at the time of the tour, the church will not be decorated for Christmas. . It will, instead, feature an Advent wreath and other seasonal appointments. A Candlewalk Community Concert will be held in the nave from 7-8 p.m. that night.

The Church of the Holy Comforter, Anglican The event is free and open to the public but tickets are required due to limited seating. Overflow seating will be available in the Parish Hall, where a reception will be held following the concert.

Candlewalk Community Concert at Holy Comforter

he nave of The Church of the Holy Comforter, Anglican, will be filled with music on Dec. 5 in anticipation of the coming Christmas season, as the parish offers its first Candlewalk Community Concert in conjunction with the Save Old Cleburne Candlewalk tour of historic homes and buildings. Organist and choirmaster Candace Bawcombe will play the church’s pipe organ. Also featured will be a string quartet made up of members of the Dallas and Fort Worth Symphony Orchestras, noted harpist Yumiko Endo Schlaeffer, members of the Holy Comforter Chorale and the Children’s Community Chorus of Johnson County. The hour-long event is from 7-8 p.m. It is free and open to the public, though tickets are required, as seating is limited. Overflow seating will be available in the Parish Hall, and a reception will be held there to follow.

The program will conclude with a traditional Christmas carol sing-along. Pipe organ has played an important part in worship at Holy Comforter throughout its 122-year history. “A mainstay in most Anglican churches, the pipe organ helps set the tone and tempo in the liturgy,” explained Bawcombe. “Most Anglican hymnody and service music is written with the expectation a pipe organ will be used, which when done well can create an al-

most seamless interweaving of scripture, worship and praise.” Pipe organ music also serves “as an evangelism tool,” she noted, as there are not many places where this kind of music can still be heard. “This certainly is true at the Church of the Holy Comforter,” she said. “Many people initially come to the church for a special service such as a wedding or funeral and then return on Sundays because of the unique sound and quality of the organ. Even if they do not become members, they often return regularly because their worship experience is so greatly enhanced by its use.” For information about Holy Comforter Church or the Candlewalk Community Concert, contact the church at 817-202-8855 or info@holycomfortercleburne.org. Or, visit the website at www.holycomfortercleburen. org. Community Life

Camp Fire to host Santa House

amp Fire will hold its annual Santa House this year in conjunction with the Kiwanis Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Breakfast with Santa from 8-11 a.m. Dec. 5 in the Fellowship Hall of St. Mark United Methodist Church. Santa House is a place for tots to shop for tiny gifts for family and friends â&#x20AC;&#x201D; with some help from Camp Fire boys and girls decked out as Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elves. Both events will coincide with Whistle Stop Christmas weekend activities. During the breakfast, the children will have a chance to be photographed with Santa, and they will be greeted by Camp Fire members who will guide them in making their Christmas purchases. As families arrive for breakfast, Camp Fire members will offer the children an opportunity to make their Christmas purchases. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will have a table where children will be able to fill out a shopping list with help from a parent,â&#x20AC;? said Brenda Patrick, a group leader. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Then, the older Camp Fire members will assist the children in choosing presents appropriate for the people on their lists and in keeping with their budgets.â&#x20AC;? Gifts will be priced inexpensively, ranging from $1 to $5, making it possible for youngsters to be â&#x20AC;&#x153;secret shoppers,â&#x20AC;? Patrick said. The

Courtesy photo

presents also will be wrapped and ready to be placed directly under the Christmas tree. Tesuya Council Camp Fire serves youths from around Johnson County. For information about Camp Fire or Santa House, call the office at 817-645-8274 or email at cftesuya@sbcglobal.net. Camp Fire is a United Way agency.

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Community Life

Carnegie, Plaza to stage Christmas plays

hristmas comes not once, not twice but thrice this year thanks to three Christmas classics soon to stage at The Greater Cleburne Carnegie Players and Plaza Theatre Co. All three family friendly fan favorites offer healthy doses of laughter, nostalgia and holiday cheer. “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” returns to Carnegie for nine performances Dec. 4-9 at the Cleburne Conference Center, 1501 W. Henderson St. For information, call 817-645-9255. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12. The play will also run at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 5, 6, 12 and 13. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. Based on a 1971 book by Barbara Robinson, the play relays the hilarious and touch-

ing tale of six hooligan children cast in a church’s Christmas story play. Becki Esch directs the play assisted by Kevin Bett. “I have children and this is one of the first plays I was involved with at Carnegie,” Esch said. “It’s one of my favorites. It’s fun, lighthearted. Kids love it and it’s great for families.” Plaza offers two Christmas plays this holiday season. “The Sanders Family Christmas,” the second in the popular “Smoke on the Mountain” trilogy, returns the comical Sanders family, and a sound track of Christmas country music, to Plaza’s stage. The play runs Nov. 20 to Dec. 23. Times are 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturdays with an additional 3 p.m. show on Saturdays. There will also be 7:30 p.m. shows on Monday during Decem-

ber. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $14 for students and seniors and $13 for children. In honor of the 50th anniversary of the classic Peanuts’ Christmas story on TV, Plaza will stage “A Charlie Brown Christmas” Dec. 19-26. Times are 11 a.m. Dec.19, 21, 22, 23 and 26. There will also be 12:30 p.m. shows on Dec. 22, 23 and 26. Tickets are $5 for all ages. “It’s a great show for all ages,” Plaza Artistic Director JaceSon Barrus said. “Kids love it and people our age love to bring their kids because we remember watching this on TV every Christmas when we were kids.” Plaza Theatre is at 111 S. Main St. in Cleburne. For information, call 817-202-0600. On the web: www.plaza-theatre.com www.carnegieplayers.org

Community Life

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Community Life

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