Christmas 2014

THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Christmas Guide A specialty publication of The Community News

November 28, 2014

Where to go and what to do during this holiday season • Christmas Tyme in Aledo • Christmas on the Square • Concerts and church services • Local giving opportunities • History • Holiday tips - how to make holiday living easier

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EE

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N I W Valid December only with mention of ad and completion of exam, x-rays, & a gentle cleaning Christmas Guide ($150 value) November 28, 2014

3

THE COMMUNITY

NEWS

Christmas Guide

Community News cation of The A specialty publi 2014 November 28,

and Where to go ring what to do du season this holiday

•

Tyme in Aledo • Christmas on the Square • Christmas s church service Concerts and

opportunities • Local giving • History

e - how to mak • Holiday tips g easier holiday livin

Table of Contents EVENTS AND FESTIVALS Christmas Tyme in Aledo . . . . . . . . . 5

Notable Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Christmas on the Square . . . . . . . . . 17

Art Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

County Courthouse Lighting . . . . . . . 22

SPOTLIGHTS AND FEATURES Toys for Tots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Snowball Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Aledo AdvoCats Angel Tree . . . . . . . . 10

Furry Friends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Tree of Bells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

St. Nicholas . . . . . . . 42

Aledo PTO Food Drive . . . . . . . . . . 19

HOLIDAY LIVING Gifting Etiquette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

LISTINGS

Shopping Locally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Opportunities to Give . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Playing Host . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Joyful Sounds (Concerts) . . . . . . . . . 32

Holiday Living Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Church Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

19

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Christmas Guide

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Christmas Tyme in Aledo

d New feature: toboggan

hill with real snow

By Phil Major and Randy Keck

P

The Community News

lanners of Christmas Tyme in Aledo went back to the drawing board this year and added some new attractions to complement the success of previous years’ events.

“Because of the opening of 1187 and Aledo Trail, we had to look at what that meant to Christmas Tyme in Aledo,” said Mayor Kit Marshall.

In previous years, the city has been able to close certain roads. But with the completion of the traffic circle, some of those roads are part of the main thoroughfare through town.

What became available was the interior of the traffic circle, where local vendors will have booths, and because of the “bowl shaped” topography of the area, it became a natural place to have a downhill slide.

“We secured a company that’s producing real snow, so when it melts it is essentially watering the grass,” Marshall said. “We’re really excited to bring that to Aledo, and give people a chance to toboggan in a safe environment.

The local business booths will draw businesses from the north and south ends of town, and many businesses in the central part of town along Front Street will remain open, as will a couple of other locations.

“We love that Holy Grounds is going to be open, and we love that the The Community News

RANDY KECK

/THE COMM

Library will have letters to Santa,” Marshall said. “We think it is going to be a great event.”

“We have worked very hard to create a successful event for our businesses and for our people,” Marshall added. “We want to maintain that family-friendly community atmosphere. Christmas Tyme in Aledo does that.”

Here’s a rundown of activities for the 14th annual Christmas Tyme in Aledo and 37th annual Arts and Crafts Fair: The arts and crafts fair will be ongoing from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Aledo Community Center, 104 Robinson Court (just off Old Annetta Road).

The evening’s events kick off at the community center at 5 p.m. with perChristmas Guide

Christmas Tyme in Aledo Date : December 6, 2014 Arts and Crafts Fair: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Aledo Community Center Music and Dancing: 5 p.m. at Aledo Community Center Arrival of Santa: 6 p.m. at Aledo Community Center Additional Activities: Inside the Aledo traffic circle, along Old Annetta Road, and downtown Aledo.

November 28, 2014 5

UNITY NEW

of food trucks, and there will be wagon rides in the downtown area.

East Parker County Library will host a drop off for letters to Santa, with arts and crafts and refreshments.

A holiday art show featuring Homer Norris and Diane Brown will also be on display.

A drop off location for Toys for Tots will be manned by local Boy Scouts in the vicinity of the community center.

UNITY NEWS

/THE COMM

RANDY KECK

foot and a half of real snow and toboggans for riding. formances by local dance groups.

One of the highlights of Christmas Tyme each year is the arrival of Santa by fire truck, which will occur about 6 p.m.

Among activities across the way in the Aledo Trail park are the snow hill, which will be a down hill run with a

There will be live reindeer and a petting zoo in the park. Mrs. Claus and her friends will be on hand for photos.

More events will be taking place in the parking lot adjacent to the Church at the Crossing and Aledo Diner, including a free photo booth, a couple

And most businesses will be open late for Christmas shopping. Cruise through the drive-in at Holy Grounds with a Santa hat or Christmas sweater and get 10 percent off your holiday beverage.

Sponsors for the event are the Aledo Economic Development Corp. and the City of Aledo. For more information contact city event planner Teddi Lee at 817-441-7016 or email teddi.lee@aledo-texas.com.

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• Preventative Health Christmas Guide Maintenance • Contraceptive Counseling • Cancer Prevention &

CHRISTMAS TYME IN ALEDO

FN 1187

Holy Grounds Coffee & Gifts

Touch of Elegance

Grace Day Spa

East Parker County Library

FREE PARKING

Maintenance

Elephant’s

The

West

Nest

Flower Shop

SN

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IL

L

Urban

Chiropractic

Texas Family

The Parsons Table

The Summit

Your Personal Chef

Flower Shop

Aledo Diner Red Horse Boutique

Petting Zoo Maverick

Aledo Christian Center

Moore Salon

Mike Hale

....and share your holiday experience by posting your family picture or just show us your fun at Maria Christmas Tyme in Aledo .

Parker Station Smokehouse Shell

FD

Bonita

Bryant Grain

Very Merry Things to do: FREE

Holy Grounds Coffee &Church Gifts are offering a playful 10% off to Milestone of Christ PARKING anyone wearing a Santa Hat or Ugly Christmas Sweater.

Write your Letters to SANTA at the East Parker County Library!

The Grinch-Outdoor Movie

Grab your family & friends and make your way inside the Photo Lobby Cierra Photo Booth full of fun props & laughs for a Free photo!

Bank

Methodist Church

The Complete Food Trucks are all the rage! We've got two, Gepettos Pizza and Smokey's Edward Jones BBQ!! Backyard

Joe’s Pasta Pizza

Take a whimsical carriage ride through Historic Downtown Aledo,Plum jump Blossom on the mini Train Ride :enjoy hot chocolate, Christmas treats, and great Myser A gracious THANK YOU to our sponsors: shopping!

Many of our businesses are open late to accommodate you; Orthodontic Red Horse Boutique, Forte, Christopher Moore Salon, Aledo FD Venue Nail Salon Yoga, Elephants Nest and The Flower Shop to name a few..

Aledo Economic Development Corporation DONUTS

Aledo Christian Center

Bryant Grain

Aledo Trail will be enchanted this year with a magical SNOW HILLSubway Free for everyone tall and small . You will be welcomed by Boy Scout Troop 1099 collecting Toys for Tots, a very cheery inflatable snowman & friends, a live Reindeer, Petting Zoo, and the Center of Hope “Tree of Bells too!

Plum Blossom Myser Orthodontic

Lots of eats between the great Church of Christ Chili, Maria Bonita's Sausage on a stick provided by Texas Family Chiropractic.

The Aledo Community Center will be rocking all day long. Begin your Christmas shopping at 10 am with hand made treasures, jams & jellies, jewelry, Christmas decorations, candles, organic scrubs, bows,

The Aledo C your Christm jellies, jewelr blankets, upc the Aledo Co enjoyable Al Don’t miss t

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Enterta

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Rail Roa

Toys for Tots Drop Off

Road Closure at Oak & Elm; FM 1187 & Elm & Mesquite/Pecan to Community News.

4:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Entertainment Christmas Treats Rail Road Crossing Aledo Trail Vendor Great Eats

feasts,News Joes Pasta Pizza, Subway, Roasted Corn at Summit to The Community Christmas Guide

Lots of eats b feasts, Joes Sausage on a

Carriag

Activities

Food Trucks

Great Vendo Doyle Moss Aledo Lion Graduation Christian C begun..

DONUTS Subway

Santa will arrive on a fire truck at six o'clock, make his way through the crowd to assist Mayor Kit Marshall with the Annual Tree Lighting.

After sneaking away to his workshop he will be ready for a FREE photo opportunity with all the children.

Carriage Route

Aledo Trail w for everyone 1099 collecti friends, a liv Bells too!

Activiti

The Aledo Community Center will be rocking all day long. Begin your Christmas shopping at 10 am with hand made treasures, jams & jellies, jewelry, Christmas decorations, candles, organic scrubs, bows, blankets, upcycled fun and much much more! Entertainment in front of the Aledo Community Center will kick off at 5:00pm with the ever so enjoyable Aledo Dance Group, Klassy Kloggers and Just for Kix. Don’t miss this!

Carriage Stop

Take a whim on the mini shopping! M Red Horse Yoga, Eleph

Venue Nail Salon

Lots of eats between the great Church of Christ Chili, Maria Bonita's feasts, Joes Pasta Pizza, Subway, Roasted Corn at Summit to Sausage on a stick provided by Texas Family Chiropractic.

IDC

Burgers

Great Vendor Booths for added fun, Bobby Rigues State Farm, Doyle Moss Insurance, First Financial Bank, Moritz Chevrolet, Aledo Lions Club, Aledo Athletic Club, IDC Burgers, Project Graduation, Kids Corner, Trinity Bible Church, Community Christian Church, Beyond Faith Home Care and we have only just If you have any questions please contact Community Event Planner Teddi Lee @ 817-441-7016 begun..

Aledo Country Day Academy

G

The Parsons United Table

Joe’s Pasta Pizza

Aledo Trail will be enchanted this year with a magical SNOW HILL Free for everyone tall and small . You will be welcomed by Boy Scout Troop 1099 collecting Toys for Tots, a very cheery inflatable snowman & friends, a live Reindeer, Petting Zoo, and the Center of Hope “Tree of Bells too!

Great Vendor Booths for added fun, Bobby Rigues State Farm, Doyle Moss Insurance, First Financial Bank, Moritz Chevrolet, Aledo Lions Club, Aledo Athletic Club, IDC Burgers, Project Graduation, Kids Teddi Corner, Bible Church, Community If you have any questions please contact Community Event Planner Lee @Trinity 817-441-7016 Christian Church, Beyond Faith Home Care and we have only just begun..

Portraits

Community News

Edward Jones

Food Trucks BBQ!!

IDC

Live Reindeer

Bank

The Complete

Holy Grounds Coffee & Gifts are offering a playful 10% off to Backyard anyone wearing a Santa Hat or Ugly Christmas Sweater.

Burgers

L

Cierra

Very Merry Things to do:

Food Trucks are all the rage! We've got two, Gepettos Pizza and Smokey's United BBQ!!

Aledo Economic Development Corporation Methodist Take a whimsical carriage ride through Historic Downtown Aledo, jump Church on the mini Train Ride :enjoy hot chocolate, Christmas treats, and great shopping! Many of our businesses are open late to accommodate you; Red Horse Boutique, Forte, Christopher Moore Salon, Aledo Yoga, Elephants Nest and The Flower Shop to name a few..

Aledo Country Day Academy

IL

PARKING

Grab your family & friends and make your way inside the Photo Lobby

Community News

Santa arrives at 6pm Train Rides for the Annual Tree Lighting with Mayor Kit Marshall followed by a special photo opportunity for childrenChattel .

Forte’ Cristopher

H

Church of Christ

Milestone Portraits

FREE

Photo Booth full of fun & laughs for a Free photo!

A gracious THANK YOU topropsour sponsors:

Nest

Bryant Grain

Maria Bonita

Write your Letters to SANTA at the East Parker County Library!

Arts & Craft Fair - 10AM-8PM

ALEDO

Mike Hale

Aledo Christian Center

Cristopher Moore Salon

The Grinch-Outdoor Movie

The Elephant’s ALEDO COMMUNITY CENTER

West

Forte’

Petting Zoo

Live Reindeer

RISTMAS TYME IN ALEDO Aledo 5:00 Aledo Dance Group YogaKloggers 5:20 Klassy Clarity Realty 5:40 Just for Kix

Chattel

Parker Station Smokehouse Shell

W H

United Methodist Church

FD

Aledo Diner Red Horse Boutique

Arts &Craft Fair 10a-8pm

Entertainment

Community News

Train Rides

Maverick

Touch of Elegance

Your Personal Chef

Aledo Country Day Academy

ALEDO TRAIL

Aledo City Hall

Grab your fa Photo Boot

Urban

PHOTO BOOTH

R.E.

Holy Groun anyone wear

Write your L

Aledo Yoga

Clarity Realty

The Rock House

CHURCH AT THE CROSSING

A holiday Art Show with works by Homer Norris & Diane Brown

Ver

November 28, 2014 7

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817-346-4778

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Jesus is the Reason for the Season

Toys for Tots d Local donation spots

selected in Annetta and Aledo

By Rosealee Hoffman

T

The Community News

he Town of Annetta and Clarity Homes in Aledo will accept donations for Toys for Tots this holiday season.

The program, run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve, collects toys and distributes them to needy children in the community.

Donations can be made Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at Annetta City Hall. Toys must be new and unwrapped. Food items and “weapons” toys cannot be accepted.

Donations may be made at Clarity Homes, 107 Parkview in the Parks of Aledo, Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and 1-6 p.m. Sunday.

There will also be a droop by location during Christmas Tyme in Aledo Dec. 6.

“During this time, I assisted with the collection and distribution of toys for over 1,000 families each year,” Remigio said. “The dedication of our Marine Corps Reservists coupled with the joy and gratitude of the families receiving the toys was heartwarming.”

Remigio noticed that the Aledo area had no collection sites, and contacted the local Toys for Tots about hosting a donation box.

So far, the city has already partnered with IDC Burgers in their mission.

The Aledo restaurant will be offering a 12% discount on food with a toy donation.

Annetta City Secretary Rico Remigio said that historically, the 12-16 year old age group has been hardest to fulfill. The city’s goal this year is to not only fill their donation box, but also have two bicycles donated.

Dec. 11 is the last day to donate at Annetta and Dec. 12 at Clarity.

Remigio participated in the program from 2007-2010 while serving with the United States Navy in Columbus, Ohio.

The Community News

Dropoff Locations Annetta City Hall: 450 Thunder Head Lane, business hours through Dec. 11 Clarity Homes: 107 Parkview Dr. (Parks of Aledo) IDC Burgers: 401 FM 1187, Aledo

Christmas Guide

November 28, 2014 9

Aledo AdvoCats Angel Tree

d Shoppers , volunteers recruited for annual

project aimed at children in need

ly give of their time and resources to shop/provide presents for children of all ages across the school district. Through the joint effort of the AISD schools and counselors, children in need will be identified and have a blessed holiday season.

Staff Reports

T

The Community News

he 2014 Aledo Children’s AdvoCats Angel Project is underway, and Angel Project volunteers are vital to its success. Because of the amazing generosity of the volunteers, 371 children from over 145 families had a very Merry Christmas last year.

Each year, the Angel Project brings joy to children in the Aledo ISD who otherwise would go without during the holiday season. AdvoCat members and community volunteers generous10 November

28, 2014

AdvoCats seeks the community’s help with the 2014 Angel Project. There are several ways to volunteer: Be a shopper for one or more children (shopping lists are provided); give a monetary donation to help where needed; volunteer at gift collection bagging, labeling and organizing gifts as they are delivered; volunteer at gift distribution (AdvoCat members only) to help distribute gifts to families; and provide refreshments for volunteers at gift collection or distribution.

If interested in volunteering or making a donation, please contact angelproject@aledoadvocats.com.

Friday, Dec. 5, 4-6 p.m: Gift Collection at Aledo United Methodist Church Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-noon: Gift Collection at AUMC Christmas Guide

Thursday, Dec. 11, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.: Gift Distribution at AUMC

How to Help 1. Be a shopper for one or more children - shopping budget for elementary and intermediate is $75 and for middle school and high school is $100 per child.

2. Make a monetary donation.

3. Volunteer at Gift Collection - We need help bagging, labeling, and organizing gifts as they are delivered on the Gift Collection dates listed above.

4. Volunteer at Gift Distribution (open to AdvoCat members only) - help distribute gifts to families on the Gift Distribution date listed above.

We would appreciate about 2 hours of your time.

5. Provide refreshments for volunteers on Gift Collection and Gift Distribution dates.

www.community-news.com

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The Community News

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Christmas Guide

November 28, 2014 11

Tree of Bells d Every time a bell rings,

Hope at the end of the evening.

Staff Reports

The tree will be set up in the Aledo Trail park, along with other Christmas Tyme activities including a snow hill, blowup Christmas characters and vendor booths featuring refreshments and other items – and of course holiday music.

the Center of Hope receives a gift

T

The Community News

hat’s the theme for the Tree of Bells, which will be prominently featured at this year’s Christmas Tyme in Aledo.

The city’s annual holiday celebration is Saturday, Dec. 6 from 5-9 p.m. in the downtown area, and the Tree of Bells will be prominent in the evening’s activities, with the goal to deliver a Christmas tree decorated with jingle bells, and jar filled with community donations to the Center of

As each person passes by the tree, they will receive a decorative jingle bell to hang on the tree for any size donation, even pocket change.

“This is the time of year that we can give back to the Center of Hope,” said Bobby Rigues, one of the organizers of the Tree of Bells.

“Whatever you can give makes a difference,” he said. “It shows the real

meaning of Christmas.” All ages are encouraged to participate.

With projected attendance of at least 5,000 people, Rigues noted that even small donations will add up by the end of the evening and help the Center of Hope in its mission to aid families in Parker County.

The theme for the Tree of Bells pays tribute to the famous Christmas movie “It’s a Wonderful Life,” which includes the oft-quoted line, “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings.”

And in much the same way that community came together in support, so Aledo can support the Center of Hope.

Center of Hope “Tree of Bells” “Every time a Bell Rings the Center of Hope Receives”

• Decorative small jingle bells available on site • We encourage all ages to participate • Whatever you can give makes a difference Christmas Tyme in Aledo December 6, 2014 5:00 PM - 9 PM Made Possible By: Bobby J Rigues Jim Hardick State Farm Agent Moritz Chevrolet

The Community News

Randy Keck The Community News

Mike Carter First Financial Bank

Christmas Guide

Aledo Lions Club

City of Aledo

November 28, 2014 13

Gifting Etiquette d How to gift the people

who aren’t family

Staff Reports

O

The Community News

nce the holiday season arrives, many people find it’s not just family and friends on their shopping lists. Coworkers and acquaintances often land on such lists as well, and it’s not always easy deciding what to get those peo-

F

ple who aren’t close friends or family members.

Boss Gifting the boss is a sensitive subject and should be dictated by company protocol. If you are the only employee to buy your boss a gift, it may seem like you are trying to curry favor. However, if everyone else is gifting and you fail to offer a gift, you may be caught off guard.

Some business etiquette experts say that it is customary for bosses to give gifts to employees but not the reverse.

farnham landscape

          

However, employees who are especially close with their bosses or who work closely with them each day may want to offer a small token of appreciation.

When selecting gifts for bosses, do not give anything too personal, such as clothing, perfume or jewelry. Food or gift cards are a safer bet. Experts say a gift in the range of $10 to $25 is adequate. Chipping in for a gift with other employees may be the best course of action so you don’t inspire resentment among coworkers.

Babysitter or nanny Caregivers play important roles in

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November 28, 2014

Christmas Guide

www.community-news.com

the lives of children. Once you have found a sitter or nanny who you trust, you want to ensure you keep that person content. If you regularly use a nanny or sitter, money is always a great gift. For a full-time nanny, one week to one month’s pay is adequate. For a regular sitter, consider a gift equal to two nights’ pay.

Coach or club leader Children today are involved in many different activities, and chances are parents’ schedules are filled with sports games and practices. A small gift of $10 to $20 can show your appreciation to a coach or club leader. This is another instance when it might be nice to pool your resources with fellow parents to purchase one large gift.

Mail carrier If your mail is delivered by the same mail carrier week after week, you may want to spread some holiday joy. Mail carriers have an extra workload during the holidays, when they are tasked with delivering packages and greeting cards in addition to more routine mail. Civil servants may be forbidden from receiving cash. In such instances, a gift card makes a great gift.

Trash collector Hauling garbage is neither an easy nor glamorous job. Many garbage collectors appreciate a tip for their hard work. Take notice of who collects the trash from your home. If it is the same people each week, take the time to personally deliver an envelope with a small tip of around $20.

Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our community.

18,000 Meals Served

Based on 2013 Statistics

$729,008 Value of Donated Food

32,794

Hours of Volunteer Service

2,349

Total Volunteers

Center of Hope | East Parker County | 9901 E. Bankhead| 817-441-2442

PRIVATE HOME CARE Family owned - Serving Texas since 1988

Wishing you a Merry Christmas!

Hairstylist If you are a regular for frequent treatments and color in a salon, show the stylist you appreciate his or her work with a cash gift. If you want to give a wrapped present, avoid tools of the trade or anything that is too personal. Stylists are on their feet much of the day, so a gift for a massage appointment or pedicure may be just what they need.

The Community News

682-333-0044 106 Austin Ave. Suite 200 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-921-9500 6050 Harris Parkway Fort Worth, Texas 76132 Christmas Guide

November 28, 2014 15

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Christmas on the Square d Festive day in the county seat

begins with parade up Main Street

By Randy Keck

T

The Community News

he Weatherford Chamber of Commerce is looking forward to hosting its annual Christmas on the Square this year from noon-5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 on the historic square in Weatherford.

The event will kick off with the 23rd annual Christmas Parade presented by the Governor Samuel W.T. Lanham, Sons of Confederate Veterans at 10 a.m. The parade will begin at the Weatherford Ninth Grade Center and proceed north up Main Street, around the courthouse and then west on Palo Pinto Street.

“It’s a very festive day in the heart of the community,” Gazzola said. “We have a lot of businesses and vendors who use it as a way of saying ‘thank you.’” Many vendors hand out free cookies, hot chocolate and other goodies.

“It’s definitely a large event that takes lots of volunteers,” Gazzola said. “Our sponsors make this event what it is. Everything is free thanks to them.”

The Community News

LSKI/THE CO Y CHRUSCIE

“Of course, Santa Claus will be here,” Gazzola said, adding that he would be stationed at First Financial Bank.

PHOTO: KATH

The free event include kids activities, live entertainment including a juggling elf unicyclist, shopping, classic car show, carriage rides, ice sculpting, holiday characters, and live reindeer.

MMUNITY NE WS

Last year’s event fell victim to the big ice storm that shut down north central Texas the first week of December, but Weatherford Chamber President Tammy Gazzola said the previous year about 50,000 people attended Christmas on the Square.

Christmas on the Square Date: December 6, 2014 Where: Historic Downtown Weatherford Time: Noon-5 p.m.

Parade: 10 a.m., Weatherford Ninth Grade Center up Main Street

Christmas Guide

November 28, 2014 17

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18 November

28, 2014

Christmas Guide

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Aledo PTO Food Drive d Aledo ISD students collect 9,500 items

in Center of Hope Food Drive BELOW: Stuard Elementary School kept a running tally of food items donated by each classroom during the Aledo PTO food drive, with each turkey representing 20 items. Stuard students donated more than 1,800 items. | RIGHT: Students from Stuard Elementary School unload food items during the Aledo PTO’s food drive to benefit the Center of Hope.

The PTO collected 9,500 food items for the one-week drive, which included every campus in the Aledo school district.

PHIL MAJOR/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

The Community News

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We are grateful for the gifts of friendship and support of our customers and neighbors.

Thank You and Merry Christmas!

County Courthouse Lighting

CRAIG SWANCY/USED WITH PERMISSION

P

Special to The Community News

arker County residents are invited to participate in the Second Annual Parker County Courthouse Christmas Lighting Ceremony Saturday, Nov. 29 at the historic Parker County Courthouse in downtown Weatherford.

Christmas carols start at 7 p.m. and the tree lighting takes place at 7:15 p.m.

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This year’s lighting ceremony will be much shorter with only Christmas carols and the official lighting of the tree and courthouse.

Last year, thousands filled the courthouse lawn and square for the ceremony which lasted longer due to the reading of the names for the memorial candles that were placed in the windows of the courthouse.

Christmas Guide

“We will not be reading the names for the memorial candles this year, so the event will be quicker but hopefully even more spectacular than last year,” County Judge Mark Riley said. “We plan to light up the courthouse even brighter this year and will still have the courthouse candles glowing in the windows, the music playing from the clock tower, the beautiful nativity scene and much more. It will be a great way for the community to kick off the Christmas season.” www.community-news.com

In an effort to help fundraising for this year’s courthouse Christmas lights, Parker County Courthouse Christmas Committee Chairwoman Donna Tillman auctioned two beautiful 16x20 prints showing the flags at the top of Parker County Courthouse.

“The courthouse is special to me and to this community,” she said. “Last year’s response to the lighting of the courthouse with stars and tree was amazing. All proceeds from the sale of the prints go to the Courthouse Christmas Decorating Fund. We are also selling window candles for $20 that can be purchased in honor or memory of a loved one.”

This year’s new look, according to Riley and Tillman, will include four additional stars on the courthouse dormers, additional Christmas lights as well as old fashion vintage light posts at the north and south entrances to the courthouse.

Parker County building and

grounds crews will put up the 32-foot tall Christmas tree, nativity scene, stars and lights in the coming weeks.

Tillman will continue to maintain the Parker County Courthouse Christmas Committee Facebook page, which will provide information about the event and ways to contribute to the decorating fund.

The committee includes Bob and Carolyn Glenn, Jonelle Bartoli, Teri Smith and Lori Bennett.

In the summer of 2013, Riley began working with the local citizens committee, which he appointed, to bring back the beautiful Christmas look of the Parker County courthouse that was once a common theme for this historic building during the Christmas holiday season.

“Throughout Texas and especially here in Parker County our courthouses are a direct window into our heritage,” Riley said. “Our courthouse, the crown jewel as I like to call it, is a reminder

to everyone who sees it of not only who we were as a community, but who we are as a community. What we do today with our courthouse will help shape what we will become in the future.”

Those wishing to make a donation can do so by calling Tillman at Holland Lake Nursing Center in Weatherford at 817-598-0160.

Parker County Courthouse Lighting Date : November 29, 2014 Christmas Carols: 7 p.m.

Lighting: 7:15 p.m.

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Snowball Express

By Phil Major

P

The Community News

arker County will have a unique opportunity to say “Thank You” to the families of U.S. military service members who have lost their lives while serving their country since the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

The Snowball Express, which once a year brings those families from around the country to an all-expense paid event, will be headquartered in Fort Worth the weekend of Dec. 11-14, and one event is planned in Parker County.

As the lengthy bus motorcade makes its way to Weatherford along Interstate 20 on Saturday, Dec. 13,

citizens are invited to line the highway overpasses, wave flags and welcome the families.

More details will be made available as the event gets closer.

The trip west follows the annual Walk of Gratitude which will be held in downtown Fort Worth that morning. Citizens are encouraged to line the streets as a way to thank the families for their sacrifice. At the end of the walk the family members release balloons with special messages to their lost loved ones.

Snowball Express began as a small event in Southern California to honor the request of a service member who

had died, to send his children to Disneyland.

It has grown to a nationwide event, with other smaller regional events held throughout the year.

It has been headquartered in Dallas the past two years – with one-day events held in Fort Worth. And this year Fort Worth will be the host city.

Citizens can also support the cause by making a donation. This can be done online at snowballexpress.org.

Or volunteer to help with various events, also signup online. Especially needed is help during the families’ arrivals and departures. All volunteers are subject to a background check.

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November 28, 2014 25

Shopping Locally d There are many good

reasons to shop locally this holiday season

By Randy Keck

S

The Community News

hopping and Christmas go hand-in-hand, but when it comes time to make the decision where to shop, buying from locally-owned small businesses makes a lot of sense.

Studies show that up to 75 percent of the mony spent a local businesses stays in the community. That’s a big deal when it comes to recirculating money in the local economy.

Local businesses are more likely to support local charities and comunity groups. Most often you will see owners of small businesses taing a role in local civic groups and churches, and forming personal relationships with the people in the community.

In addition, often the prices at local merchants are actually lower than prices elsewhere. Even if not, those local dollars go back into the local economy to help build and fund schools, roads and other public accommodations. Money spent at local businesses not only provides sales tax revenue to the local city, but property taxes paid by small businesses help keep a lid on residential property tax rates.

The more healthy the local business economy, the better for local property owners’ tax bills.

Here are ten good reasons to shop locally: • Shopping local creates jobs.

Shops in our town create local employment and self-employment.

These people in turn spend in the local community.

• Local independent shops invest more in our communities.

Local businesses are proportionately more generous in their support of local charities, schools and community events. Supporting local shops means

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26 November

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a financial impact on our community.

• Shopping local helps the environment.

Local shops often stock a high percentage of local sourced goods which do not require long car and bus journeys.

• Local shops sell a wide range of great products at affordable prices.

Many people fall out of the habit of shopping locally and are then surprised by the range of products and gifts available.

• Shopping local saves you money.

Even if the cost of an item bought locally is a little higher, by the time you factor in gas and travel time, you may end up saving money.

• Shopping local retains our communities.

Buying locally keeps small business open and the services they provide available to other local customers.

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11/11/14

• Local shops are for everyone.

Most people can get to their local shops easily and this is especially important for the elderly and young generations and those without transportation.

• Shopping local retains our distinctiveness.

Independent shops create distinctive shopping experiences and stock different products. Local businesses respond quickly to the needs of local customers, stocking products to meet the changing population needs.

• Local shops value you more.

Evidence from numerous surveys show people receive better customer care and service locally. These businesses survive by their reputation and repeat business, which means you get a higher standard of service.

• Shopping local saves services.

Private and public sector services tend to cluster around shops. With local shops come hairdressers, banks, restaurants, etc.

12:35 PM

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November 28, 2014 27

Opportunities to Give

Staff Reports

wear for students in need, specifically men’s boxer or boxer briefs and ladies hipster and bikini.

he spirit of Christmas is the spirit of giving, and there are numerous needs in the community.

Aledo Children’s Advocats’ Clothes Closet 9901 East Bankhead Hwy., Suite B Aledo, Texas 76008 between FM 1187 and Ranch House Road 817-441-2707 www.aledoadvocats.com Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Summer hours are Tuesdays and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

T

The Community News

The following organizations would welcome gifts and service from the community.

Aledo Children’s AdvoCats The AdvoCats’s Clothes Closet is in need of winter clothing donation items: coats, gloves’s and hats. They also are in need of donations of ladies and men’s size, new, packaged under-

CASA Hope for Children Court Appointed Special Advocates is an organization that stands up for children whose families are caught up in the judicial system.

The fire department is giving gifts, but they need donations for bicycles of different sizes or gift cards for teenagers.

In addition, CASA is loking for sponsors for breakfast or craft tables for its Breakfast with Santa in Palo Pinto County Saturday, Dec. 6, and Parker County Saturday, Dec. 13, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Donuts and breakfast burritos will be served and they are looking for sponsors for the breakfast or craft tables.

CASA Hope for Children 701 Palo Pinto St., Suite 701-F Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-6224 www.casahopeforchildren.org

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year from the Plowman Family and Staff at Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel

an an · Norma Plowm James R. Plowm fcnet.com gp @ an wm plo james

Telephone: 817-594-2747 Toll Free: 800-593-2747 28

November 28, 2014

913 N. Elm St, Weatherford, TX 76086 Christmas Guide

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Center of Hope (Aledo and Weatherford) Center of Hope locations in Weatherford and Aledo are collecting items for Christmas food baskets. They have been doing this program for more than 10 years and have impacted thousands of people in Parker County. This opportunity not only provides a special meal, but shows families that someone cares and is praying for them. The items needed most are turkeys, hams, and hens (or money donations for these items.) Donations can be taken to either location: Center of Hope (Aledo) 9901 East Bankhead Hwy., Suite C and D Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-2442 Hours: Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Center of Hope (Weatherford) 629 Palo Pinto St., Suite D Weatherford, Texas 76086

The Community News

and the East Parker County Chamber would love to have you on their Kettle Team. Call the East Parker County Chamber of Commerce at 817-441-7844 and register to ring at Hudson Oaks Walmart. All the money raised in the Salvation Army Kettle stays in Parker County. Call today to reserve a spot for your business to help with the ringing. Bell Ringers will begin Friday, Nov. 28 and ring thru Wednesday, Dec. 24.

Freedom House 817-594-0266 http://centerofhopetx.com Hours: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

East Park County Chamber of Commerce Bell Ringers Needed: It’s time for the annual Red Kettle Campaign

Christmas Guide

Freedom House provides services to victims of family violence. They have a Christmas Store where clients’ children may pick out and wrap a gift for a parent or care giver. They are accepting small inexpensive gift items until Dec. 12. Suggested items might include small jewelry, candle sets, bath and body lotions, picture frames, Turn to SERVICE, page 30

November 28, 2014 29

SERVICE from page 29

billfolds/wallets, ornaments, purses, glove and scarf sets, flashlights, small tool sets, inspirational books, journals or knickknacks. Items not used for Christmas are used throughout the year for other events, such as birthdays. Freedom house will be closed for Christmas on Dec. 24, 25 and 26.

Freedom House 1149 Fort Worth Highway Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-7543 ctfh@sbcglobal.net 24 Hour Hotline: 817-596-8922, Fax: 817-596-4369 Contact: Catherine Tietjen www.freedomhouse.org

Grace House Ministries Grace House Ministries provides pregnancy assistance in Parker County.

Their biggest need is financial. They are saving money to build a brand new

clinic where they will continue to provide free pregnancy tests, free limited sonograms, and additional services.

Current needs are Similac Sensitive Formula and Similac Advanced Formula for their pregnancy center boutique, stamps, and standard office paper.

Grace House is also looking for financial sponsors for next year’s Pure Truth scholarships. They award the scholarship to local high school seniors who have been positive change agents in their schools. Last year they gave out two $1,000 scholarships and 2 $500 scholarships.

Grace House Pregnancy Assistance Center 112 West Russell St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-4700 www.gracehouseministries.net

Manna Parker County Santa’s Helpers Angel Tree Program: Angels can be picked up at Manna, Weatherford Police Department, First National Bank, Weatherford National Bank or First Financial Bank. Angel gifts must be completed and returned by Dec. 12.

Items requested are new clothing to include: jacket, shoes, jeans and shirt and a toy of the child’s request.

If the child needs sleepwear, socks or underwear that may also be included in the request.

Manna Parker County is always in need of food donations.

Manna Parker County 129 East Spring St. or P.O. Box 9 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-6569 mannastorehouse.org mannastorehouse@sbcglobal.net Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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Parker County Child Welfare Board The Parker County Child Welfare Board seeks sponsors to help ensure that children under the care of Child Protective Services have a merry Christmas.

Each child has provided a wish list of toys and games plus needed clothing items (or a gift card to buy those items).

The sponsors serve as Santa Claus and shop for the items New, unwrapped gifts in a large box or bag (gift cards in a separate envelope), with the list attached, should be brought in by Dec. 5 to the Weatherford CPS office, 1501 Texas Drive, Suite 200.

If interested in being a sponsor, contact Angie Childers, Christmas chairman, at 682472-3514.

Weatherford Senior Center and Meals on Wheels Angel Tree at the Senior Center – Senior Angels can be picked up at the center and returned no later than Monday, Dec. 15. When picking up the angel you will be given a Santa Bag to put gifts in and a gift suggestion list.

Their needs at this time are items for their Food Pantry for seniors. The pantry is stocked year round and grocery day is twice a month, but needs can be met at any time during the month. Suggested items for the pantry are canned meats (tuna, ham, chicken or Spam), canned fruit, peanut butter or instant oatmeal.

The Senior Center will be closed 2 p.m. Dec. 23 thru Dec. 26 and Dec. 31 at 2 p.m. through Jan. 1.

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November 28, 2014 31

Joyful Sounds

McCall Elementary School

Staff Reports

C

The Community News

hristmas is a time for music and singing, and you can find plenty of opportunities to hear the sounds of the season at area schools, all the way from elementary schools to Weatherford College!

Coder Elementary School The Coder Choir will perform at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 at Hulen Mall and will host a Coder Choir and Christmas Cookies for the Coder staff on Wednesday, Dec. 17.

McCall Choir Holiday Concert will be at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4.

McAnally Intermediate School

Vandagriff Elementary School The Vandagriff Kindergarten program will be at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 18.

Aledo Middle School

The McAnally Winter Band Concert will be at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at Aledo High School (along with Aledo Middle School) at the Aledo High School auditorium.

The Aledo Middle School Band Concert will be at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9 at the Aledo High School auditorium.

The McAnally Choir Concert will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18. Check www.community-news.com for location.

The Aledo Middle School choir will join the Aledo High School choir in a concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 at the Aledo High School Auditorium.

Journey with Us December 7 • Christmas Cantata—sermon in song Chancel Choir presents John Rutter’s Gloria at 9 & 11 a.m.

December 15 • Of

Many Colors Christmas Concert at 7 p.m.

December 24 • Christmas

Eve—Experience the Wonder of Christmas

12 p.m. Worship—noon service with communion 5 p.m. Family Worship Children’s Choir, handbells and live Nativity with carols 8 p.m. Traditional Worship Chamber Choir, handbells, communion & candlelight 11 p.m. Candlelight Worship—Chancel Choir and handbells Enjoy a 30 minute instrumental concert prior to each of these services!

2720 S. University Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76109 • universitychristian.org 32 November

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Aledo High School The Aledo High School choir will perform with the Aledo High School choir in concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 at the Aledo High School Auditorium.

The Aledo High School band will perform a Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16 at the Aledo High School Auditorium.

Trinity Christian Academy The Trinity Christian Academy Christmas Concert will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 at North Side Baptist Church, 910 N. Main St., Weatherford. Elementary Choir performs David’s Dynasty, a take off on Duck Dynasty, at 6; at 7 the TCA Praise Team will perform and at 7:15 the Secondary Choir will perform a Christmas cantata. TCA multimedia class will provide video background for the performances.

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Weatherford College The Weatherford College community presentation of Handel’s “Messiah” will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1 at the Alkek Fine Arts Center on the main Weatherford campus.

Weatherford College will present a

The Aledo Middle School choir performs in its Christmas Concert in 2013.

theatrical production of Hansel and Gretel at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7 at the Alkek Fine Arts Center on the main Weatherford campus. Both events are free to the public.

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Mobile:•817-637-2275 Bus: 817-441-6444 Fax: 817-441-8444 Bus: 817-441-6444 •Texas Fax: 817-441-8444 Bus: 817-441-6444 • Fax: 817-441-8444 213 N. Front Street • Aledo, 76008 mike@mikehaleagency.com Mobile: 817-637-2275 Mobile: 817-637-2275 Mobile: Bus: 817-441-6444 •817-637-2275 Fax: 817-441-8444 www.mikehaleagency.com mike@mikehaleagency.com mike@mikehaleagency.com mike@mikehaleagency.com Mobile: 817-637-2275 www.mikehaleagency.com Christmas Guide November 28, 2014 www.mikehaleagency.com www.mikehaleagency.com mike@mikehaleagency.com www.mikehaleagency.com 33

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Notable Events A

ledo merchants will hold their second Wine Crawl from 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18. Participating merchants will stay open late and serve wine and snacks for shoppers.

Discounts may be available on that evening.

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lark Gardens 2014 holiday event, Garden A Glow will be hosted one night only, Saturday, Dec. 6 from 6-10 p.m.

Event tickets are by prepaid reservations only. No tickets will be sold at the door.

Visit with Santa and enjoy musical and dancing entertainment. Stroll through the gardens aglow with lights.

Take in all the sights on the hayride.

There will be hot chocolate and an old fashioned weenie roast with s’mores.

In case of inclement weather Garden A Glow will be rescheduled to Thursday, Dec. 11.

Ticket Information • Event tickets are by prepaid reservations only. No tickets will be sold at the door.

• All guests must have a physical ticket to attend Garden A Glow. Reservations will not be honored without a physical ticket.

• Only 1,000 tickets will be sold.

• Reservations close when 1,000 tickets are sold or Monday, Dec. 1 at 5 p.m. (whichever comes first).

Admission Prices $15 adult $10 child 2-12 years of age Free children under the age of 2 years Clark Gardens Members - No charge; though reservations must be made in advance. See below.

The Community News

Tickets - Clark Gardens Members All reservations must be made in advance. This applies to members and non-members alike. No tickets will be sold at the door.All guests must have a physical ticket to attend Garden A Glow.

Reservations will not be honored without a physical ticket.

Clark Gardens is three miles east of Mineral Wells and one mile north of Highway 180 on Maddux Road.

T

he 33rd Annual Candlelight Tour of Homes in Weatherford is Saturday, Dec. 13 from 2-8 p.m.

Tour historic homes and properties decorated for the holidays.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children and available at the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce, 401 Fort Worth Hwy. and the Doss Heritage & Culture Center, 1400 Texas Drive.

Venues for 2014: All Saints’ Anglican Church - 125 S. Waco Street The Blaisdell Home - 413 W. Baylor Street The Blankenship Home - 309 W. Josephine Street The Caudill Home - 513 W. Lee Avenue Chandor Gardens - 711 W. Lee Avenue The Doss Heritage and Culture Center - 1400 Texas Drive The Lott Home - 406 W. Columbia The Lynch Home - 207 W. Josephine The Museum of the Americas - 216 Fort Worth Hwy. The Pythian Home - 1825 E. Bankhead Drive The Grounds of the Woodruff Home - 412 Jefferson Street Little Cowboy Carriage Services will be located at Chandor Gardens

The event is sponsored by the Parker County Heritage Society. The heritage society is hosting a holiday open house at Chandor Gardens in Christmas Guide

conjunction with the tour, and Santa will be at the gardens from 3-6 p.m.

For more details and ticket information, visit: http://www.parkercountyheritagesociety.com.

T

he Village Shoppes at 9500 East Bankhead Hwy. are hosting a holiday festival Friday-Sunday, Nov. 28-30 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 1-5 Sunday.

Santa will be available for photos, and there will be bounce houses, face painting and games.

Demonstrations include bread making, pottery and more, along with make-your-own bird houses, laundry soap and more.

Vendors will include Fudge and Cake, calligraphy, Scentsy candles, Younique makeup, Doterra oils, Sacred photobooks, Plexus, Signs, and Christ Chapel Bible Church West youth group.

Black Friday specials include quilts, tea sets, Lee Middleton dolls, science kits, Thrive freeze dried foods (including samples), Willow Tree ornaments and figurines, violins, aprons, jewelry, bread making equipment, grain mills, stationery and gift items.

Crafters may rent spaces for $15 outdoor and $25 indoor. Contact 817584-8651.

A catered lunch will be available.

November 28, 2014 35

Art Sale d The Weatherford Art

Association has assembled a gallery full of local art for a true shopping experience at the Firehouse Art Gallery at 119 Palo Pinto from Nov. 15 through December for all holiday art shopping needs.

All artworks in the gallery are priced to sell for $100 or less.

WAA Artists have stocked the gallery with all sizes and genre pairings, drawings and ceramics.

Stop by the gallery and check out the deals.

Call 817-599-3278 for hours of operation.

RIGHT: WAA artist Sara Fino prepares her art for the Christmas sale.

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36 November

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Christmas Guide

www.community-news.com

Furry Friends Staff Reports

D

The Community News

on’t forget your four-legged friends this Christmas. Opportunities are available for pet adoptions and to help provide for the pets of others who are struggling.

Parker Paws Join Parker Paws at the annual Christmas on the Square celebration in downtown Weatherford Saturday, Dec. 6 from noon to 5 p.m.. Come by and meet adoptable dogs and talk to volunteers. Do some Christmas shopping – Parker Paws merchandise for sale to help fund the many programs to benefit the pets in the foster program and help rescue more pets.

Treat your pet to a photo with Santa at SouthWest Ford from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13. A $5 donation for photo is appreciated.

SouthWest Ford is located on Fort Worth Hwy. in Hudson Oaks.

Treat your pet to a photo with Santa at SouthWest Nissan from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20. A $5 donation for photo is appreciated. SouthWest Nissan is located on Fort Worth Hwy. in Hudson Oaks. For more information please call, 817 694-5718.

Please remember homeless pets during this holiday season with an Angel Tree donation. Your donation of pet food, toys, and supplies is appreciated. Donations accepted at the following locations starting Dec. 1: The Community News

Kwik Kar – Hudson Oaks and Aledo BBVA Compass Bank on Santa Fe in Weatherford

Keep Them Home Pet Food Pantry

Texas Grins in Willow Park

One local business person is working to keep pets out of shelters by collecting food that is provided to area families who are having a difficult time.

PetsWest in Aledo For more information on any of the above, call 817-694-5718.

Parker County Pets Alive Parker County Pets Alive is dedicated to assist pets in need our area and in municipal animal shelters in Parker County and surrounding areas.

The organization works closely with the Weatherford/Parker County Animal Shelter to adopt out dogs and cats. Some specials may be available during the holidays - check with https://www.facebook.com/parkercountypetsalive.

Christmas Guide

While there are organizations dedicated to feeding people, Jackie French at LeChateau has formed a non-profit organization, the Keep them Home Pet Food Pantry, to collect pet food so those families can keep their pets, thereby keeping the animals out of shelters.

Food donations can be taken yearround to LeChateau, 5011 E. I-20 service Road N. in Willow Park. For more information call 817-441-8844.

November 28, 2014 37

Playing Host little breathing room. Meals can be prepared a few days in advance and heated up come the day of the festivities.

Buffet service can work any time of the day and can include both cold and hot foods if they are kept at the right temperature. Explore these other tips for entertaining buffet-style.

• Present food in an easily accessible location. Place food on a table or counter that will not be in the way of foot traffic. Arrange dishes and cutlery at the head of the buffet line so guests can move in an orderly fashion as they select their food.

• Tie together utensils for ease.

Group forks, knives and spoons with a cloth napkin and dish so guests can easily grab what they need for dining.

Buffets can be easier on hosts and hostesses and ensure that guests of various tastes all have enough food at their disposal.

d Buffet entertaining tips The Community News

straints can make it difficult to sit everyone down for a formal meal, and buffets enable guests to mingle with one another while selecting only the foods they want to eat.

uffet-style meals are often the best option for large gatherings of friends and family. Space con-

These are not the only advantages to buffets, however. Plenty of dishes can be made in advance and stored in the freezer, providing hosts and hostesses a

and timesavers

Staff Reports

B

38 November

28, 2014

Christmas Guide

• Practice food safety. Hot dishes need to be kept warm and cold dishes need to be placed on ice. Chafing dishes make this possible. Use chafing dishes and pans in combination with your serving plates. Heated elements or sternos under chafing dishes will keep foods steaming. Place crushed ice and water in a pan under cold foods to keep them chilled. Food should be removed if it has been sitting at room temperature for more than two hours.

• Experiment with meals that keep. Stews, casseroles, soups, baked pasta dishes, and similar fare can be made in advance and frozen. Thaw these dishes in the refrigerator the day before the party, then heat up foods and serve for the buffet. Prepared www.community-news.com

foods purchased at a supermarket or specialty retailer also work well for buffets. Simply purchase and then set out for even less work.

• Weigh your catering options.

Catering services can make easy work of holiday hosting but not without expense. Caterers may charge by the person or by each tray of food.

Some will include table settings and rolls with the price; others may not.

Calculate the costs of using a caterer and weigh them against the cost of doing the work yourself.

• Use plastic utensils for hot foods.

Metal spoons and forks can quickly heat up when sitting in hot serving dishes. Use plastic utensils so guests do not get burned.

• Keep dressings on the side. Salad dressings and other condiments can cause foods to wilt or get soggy. Have them nearby so guests can help themselves. Topless squirt bottles are easier to handle and can help limit spills.

• Be mindful of food allergies.

Although you may have various foods available to meet the dietary needs of guests, do not place risky foods next to others. Cross-contamination can occur from spills or if a person uses the same serving spoon to dish out foods. Label food options so everyone knows what’s available.

• Ask a friend to help set up. Ask a close friend or family member to come over an hour or two early to help you set up the buffet and with any other last-minute touches. This will take some of the pressure off of you, and you can chat and enjoy yourself before your hosting duties begin.

• Frozen foods should be thoroughly wrapped. Only use freezer-safe bags and containers to store prepared foods. Otherwise you may run the risk of freezer burn or freezing, affecting the taste of the final product. Keep in mind that many desserts, such as fruit pies, also can be frozen. It’s possible to make ahead just about everything for

a holiday feast and simply thaw and reheat when the big day arrives.

• Create a good side dish ratio.

Buffets should include a variety of side dishes. Select one or two main dishes and then vary the rest of the selection with rice, pasta, vegetables, or other favorite side dishes.

• Keep take-away containers on hand. You’re bound to make more food than you need, so send guests off with their own goodie bags to lighten the load on your leftovers. Encourage guests to fill up a container and take some food home with them.

• Lock pets away. An open, unattended buffet can seem like paradise to a hungry cat or dog. It’s not sanitary or particularly appealing for guests to catch a pet taking advantage of buffet fare. Keep pets in a bedroom or outside when the meal is being served.

Buffets are a fine choice for big groups because they provide variety and the chance to mingle.

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Christmas Guide

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November 28, 2014 39

Church Services Aledo United Methodist Church 100 Pecan St., Aledo 817-441-8329 Nov. 30 - Deck the Halls and Chili Cook-Off, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 14 - Carol Celebrations, Cantata at 9:45 . and 11 a.m. services Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Services 5 p.m. - Family/Children’s Pageant 7 p.m. - Traditional/Candle Lighting 11 p.m. - Traditional/Candle Lighting Advent Sermon series: Reel Meaning of Christmas November 30 - Hope December 7 - Peace December 14 - Joy December 21 - Love

40 November

28, 2014

Christ Church West Meets at Tucker Reds, Grand Hall, 4971 East I-20, Willow Park 817-484-5638 Christ Church West will celebrate an Open Air Christmas at their land on Willow Crossing East behind Brookshire’s. Hot chocolate and other treats will be served at 4:30 p.m. and the service will be at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21.

Church At The Crossing 128 Elm St., Aledo 817-441-8885 www.crossingaledo.com Christmas Eve Candle Light Service 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. - Nursery for 3 and under at 6 p.m. service only

Christmas Guide

Community Christian Church 2 Dean Drive, Aledo 817-441-7393 Two Christmas events this year: “One Bethlehem Night” a Broadway style Christmas musical performance at Community Christian Church, 2 Dean Dr., Aledo at 6 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 7. The Christmas story comes to life in this inspiring dramatic musical focusing on the humanity of the people who witnessed Christ’s birth. Meet the young, expectant mother and her husband, as they come to Bethlehem for the census. Meet the innkeeper and his wife, who have the chance of a lifetime to make a bundle of money, but who find even greater blessings in the birth of a King. Meet the rabbi, who anxiously awaited the promised Messiah all his life.

Christmas Eve service at 5 p.m. on Dec. 24.

www.community-news.com

Garden of Eat’n Monday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Tuesday 7:30 am - 2:00 pm Faith Presbyterian Church 301 Bailey Ranch Road, Aledo 817-441-6262 Sunday, Dec. 7 - The Messiah will be performed during the 10:30 a.m. Worship Service Sunday, Dec. 14 - Faith Christmas Recital at 11 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 21 - Faith goes Christmas Caroling; 6:30 p.m. carolers meet at Faith and will caravan to various homes and places

Monday - Saturday 6:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 10:30 - 2:00 pm

Wednesday - Friday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Sunday 10:30 am - 2:00 pm

Aledo, Texas 817-441-7770

First Baptist Church of Willow Park 601 Ranch House Rd., Weatherford 817-441-7170 Christmas Musical will be at 10:30 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 7: “Three Gifts - Our Christmas Offering”

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su rebmemeR Trinity Bible Church diloh eht gnirud 4936 East I-20 Access Road South, WillowyaPark ruoy rof nosaes 817-441-7477 Dec 24 Christmas Eve Services 4 p.m., 5:30 sdeen erac htlaeh p.m. and 7 p.m. ot yadot llaC l a n o srep a eludehcs Willow Park Baptist Church .ruot 129 South Ranch House Rd., Aledo

The Community News

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and healing, and I will heal them reveal to them abundance of prosperity Behold, I will bring toand it health and security” Jeremiah 33:6

Parker County Cowboy Church 5050 FM 5 S, Aledo 817-925-0910 Saturday, December 13 at 6 p.m. a Christmas Party and Silent Auction benefiting Center of Hope, Freedom House and Meals on Wheels.

Candle Light Service will be at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21.

817-441-1596 December 13: Angel Tree 11 a.m.

Christmas Eve service

MERRYCHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS

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Holy Redeemer Catholic Church 16250 Old Weatherford Road, Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-3500 holyredeemeraledo.org Children’s Mass, December 24. 4:30 p.m.

Midnight Mass, Christmas Day 10:30 a.m.

November 28, 2014 41

St. Nicholas cheer along the way.

Before the modern evolution of Santa Claus lived a very real and generous individual named Nicholas. In the third century, Nicholas served as the Bishop of Myrna in present-day Turkey. He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, believing that giving should be done secretly and sacrificially in Jesus Christ’s name rather than one’s own.

d The man

behind the beard

E

very Christmas Eve, children go to bed eagerly anticipating a visit from Santa Claus. This merry gentleman is purported to visit the home of every good girl and boy, delivering gifts and 42 November

28, 2014

Stories tell of Nicholas paying the dowry for poor daughters to enable them to get married. He reportedly put coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him. It is believed Nicholas helped to restore the hope of hundreds of people in his community, making him a beloved and revered Bishop. Throughout his ministry, Nicholas fervently shared his life and fortune with others.

Nicholas continued to be revered and commemorated by many Christians even after his death. His charity and unselfish works helped inspire generations of the faithful, and he eventually was named the patron saint of everyone from merchants to sailors to pawnbrokers.

Christmas Guide

No one really knows what St. Nicholas looked like. But in 2005, a forensic laboratory in England reviewed historical data and photographs of the remains taken from St. Nicholas’ grave in the 1950s.

Researchers concluded that he was a small man, perhaps no more than five feet in height, with a broken nose.

This image certainly does not fit with the robust frame and other imagery awarded St. Nicholas in more modern years. St. Nicholas is believed to be the inspiration for Santa Claus, which was a name taken from the Dutch Sinterklaas, a contracted form of Sint Nicolass, or St. Nicholas.

Tales of the real St. Nicholas’ giving spirit were blended with a fictional personification by New York-based newspaper writers who blended the St. Nicholas name with the appearance of a Dutch town citizen. The goal was to reach out to the primarily Dutch immigrants living in New York at the time. This jolly elf image was given a boost by the publication of “A Visit From St. Nicholas,” which was published around the same time.

Eventually, the merry Santa Claus portrayal began to outshine the more accurate St. Nicholas version as a religious man, fostered by political drawings and caricatures that depicted Santa as a chubby sort in a red suit.

That image prevails to this day.

Beneath the Christmas symbolism, the beard and the presents associated with Santa Claus lies a tale of generosity that originated with St. Nicholas. www.community-news.com

When the Holidays Hurt Sundays 10:45am Nov. 23 & 30, Dec. 14 & 21 CHURCH AT THE CROSSING www.crossingaledo.com

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Christmas Guide

November 28, 2014 43

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Christmas Guide

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Holiday Living d Make the holidays even

more enjoyable with a variety of timesavers and clever tips

W

ith so much on our plates between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, the holiday season can be hectic.

Fortunately, there are many ways to save time and make the holiday season more manageable.

• If you don’t have plastic clips to hang lights around windows and to the eaves of your home, inexpensive clothespins will work just as well. If you’re concerned about the color of the wooden clips, paint them holiday hues before stringing the lights.

• Put a bath mat, rug-side down and rubber-side up, beneath your Christmas tree stand. This allows you to spin the tree as you hang lights and ornaments without damaging the floor underneath. It also makes it simple to undress the tree once the season is over. Use a tree skirt to hide the mat.

• Squeeze artificial tree portions into concrete form tubes. First wrap the tree portions in twine and then slip them into the concrete sleeves.

Each tube can be stowed in attic or garage rafters, freeing up precious space.

• Use empty squirt bottles to make baking and cooking easier. Pancake and cookie batters can be squirted from the containers for less mess.

• Store one or two strings of lights The Community News

in a plastic shopping bag to keep the strands from getting tangled. Hang the bags from a hook in a garage or stack them in a storage bin.

• Use plastic zip ties to attach garland and lights to bannisters.

They’re easy to assemble and will not damage the bannisters.

• A paper towel holder can be screwed to the wall in a craft room to neatly hold spools of ribbon.

Simply pull the length you need from the spool and cut for easy decorating.

• Mount a tree stand to a piece of wood with screws or glue. This prevents spills from reaching the floor while stabilizing the tree.

• Old maps make interesting gift wrap and are a nice change of pace from commercially produced paper or newsprint.

• Wrap duct tape or another type of sticky tape around your hand. Pat over fallen pine needles that accumulate around the tree. In hard-to-reach areas, wrap the tape around a broom or a floor sweeper.

• When traveling for the holidays, use a brightly colored suitcase or flashy tape to make your suitcase stand out from others at the airport.

• Place hardened brown sugar in a baking dish, cover it with a moist paper towel and either microwave it on high for 20-second intervals or place it in a 300 F oven for five minutes. This will soften the sugar, making it easier to use the sugar to prepare your favorite holiday cookie recipes.

Christmas Guide

• Save plastic bread ties, which can be used to make tags for the wires on certain devices. Such ties also can be used to organize decorating components and to keep your place on a roll of tape.

• Measure the inside of your picture window and construct a wooden frame to its dimensions. Staple holiday lights to the frame and then easily slip the frame in and out of place each year.

• Hang a live wreath or some boughs of evergreen in your home to give it that fresh pine scent if you have an artificial tree.

• Color-code storage containers so you can easily find holiday decorations in the attic or basement.

• Pack for a holiday excursion using a collapsible clothing storage hanger for closets. Fold clothes on each fabric shelf and then collapse it into your suitcase. When you get to your destination, unfold and hang it in a closet so all of your clothes will be at the ready.

November 28, 2014 45

d Christmas tidbits

to put you in the holiday spirit

• Christmas carols began as an English custom called “wassailing.” Individuals toasted neighbors to a long and healthy life.

was originally written for Thanksgiving and not Christmas. People loved it so much that the lyrics were changed to fit Christmas.

The holiday season has arrived, and millions of people across the globe will be celebrating Christmas with their families and friends.

The following are some interesting tidbits to share with your loved ones this holiday season.

• Despite the common tale that three wise men paid homage to baby Jesus, the Bible never specifically calls out a number. Similarly, there’s no specific indication that they visited the infant Jesus. Their visit may have occurred when Jesus was older.

• Christmas trees typically grow for 15 years before they’re cut and sold. This means the trees sold today were likely planted in 1999.

• Each year, more than three billion Christmas cards are sent in the United States alone.

• In 350 AD, Pope Julius I, bishop of Rome, proclaimed December 25 the official celebration date for the birth of Jesus Christ. Many historians and theologians have surmised that Christ really wasn’t born this time of year, thanks to imagery and information from the Bible.

• Santa Claus’ modern look was inspired by writings from The Knickerbockers of New York and imagery from Clement Clarke Moore’s “A Visit from St. Nicholas.”

Moore denied authoring the famous poem for 15 years after it was published anonymously, feeling the poem was beneath his talents.

• Santa has his own official postal code. It’s H0 H0 H0.

• The song “Jingle Bells”

• Christmas was not declared an official holiday in the United States until June 26, 1870.

• Before turkey, the traditional Christmas meal served in England was a pig’s head and mustard.

• Male reindeer tend to shed their antlers in the winter.

This means Santa’s reindeer are likely female.

• Christ may have been born in a cave rather than a manger. According to the gospel of Luke, the shepherds that helped find shelter for Mary to give birth kept their flock

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• Each holiday season, PNC Wealth Management calculates the costs of the gifts in the song, “The 12 Days of Christmas.” The price index for the gifts went from $12,673 in 1984 to more than $24,000 in 2011. The most expensive gift is the swimming swans.

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• Many people may be less inclined to stand under mistletoe waiting for a kiss if they knew what “mistletoe” means in the ancient Germanic language. It literally means “dung on a twig,” for the bird who eats the berries and then leaves seeds in droppings to propagate new plants.

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in a cave. The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is built over a cave called the Grotto of the Nativity, where Jesus is believed to have been born.

Christmas Guide

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www.community-news.com

Thank You to our readers, subscribers and advertisers for your continuing loyalty and support. We wish you the best this holiday season and always!

TInforming.

HE COMMUNITY NEWS Connecting. Growing.

817-441-7661 • www.community-news.com