Your Parker County 2014-15 by The Community News

r u yPoARKER COUNTY

FREE 2014-2015

An Information Guide • • • • •

Aledo • The Annettas • Brock Hudson Oaks • Millsap Peaster • Poolville Springtown • Weatherford Willow Park

A Perfect Balance Between Nature and Luxury

w w w. Pa r k s O f A l e d o . n e t

Take exit 420 from I-20, travel south 1.4 miles and turn right on Bailey Ranch Road

Table of Contents PARKER COUNTY COMMUNITIES Aledo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The Annettas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Brock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Hudson Oaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Millsap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Peaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Poolville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Springtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Weatherford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Willow Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

SPOTLIGHTS AND FEATURES Scott Myser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Ironstar Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Splash Kingdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Trailhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Center of Hope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Down Bankhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 DeAnn Spence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Gallows Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

ABOUT OUR COVER: This fence in Annetta illustrates the rural roots of Parker County. It was found by photographer Christopher Amos.

GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY County Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Judiciary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Precinct 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Precinct 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Precinct 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Precinct 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Public Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Fire Departments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Emergency Services Districts . . . . . . . . . 39

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Your Parker County

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EDUCATION Aledo ISD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Brock ISD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Garner ISD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Millsap ISD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Peaster ISD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Poolville ISD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Springtown ISD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Weatherford ISD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Private Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Pre-Schools and Child Care . . . . . . . . . . 46 Weatherford College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

28 LIVING IN PARKER COUNTY

our Parker County is published annually by The Community News in Aledo, Texas. As Parker County’s only locally-owned newspaper, we strive to provide our readers in east Parker County with the

Churches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Non-Profits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Clubs and Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Senior Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Sports/Physical Activity . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Other Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

best possible newspaper each week, and we carry that same dedication each year into production of Your Parker County. If you have additions or corrections for the 2015-2016

Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Recreation and Venues . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Libraries and Museums . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Chambers of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

edition, please email rkeck@ community-news.com. We are proud to live and work in Parker County, and hope you find value in the contents of these pages.

Randy Keck, Publisher

Development

Loydale Schmid

Editor

Phil Major

Writer

Gale Bradford Rosealee Hoffman

Sports

Tony Eierdam

Photography

Christopher Amos Kathy Chruscielski

Elephants Nest

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Custom Gift Baskets • Specialty Food Items Baby Gifts • Jewelry • Magnetic Boards Hand Painted Barware • College Items Simply Soaps and Lotions (Farm-made locally) • Hand-Made Childrens Clothes

The Community News

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Your Parker County

2014-2015 5

Aledo M

Community as a lifestyle

By Randy Keck

The Community News

ayor Kit Marshall describes Aledo as “living in a community that embraces its rich heritage while forging a dynamic future.” “Aledo has so much going for it,” Marshall said. She used the term “community” not just to embody a place to live, but the way people live. “It means people caring about people, whether elected officials, city staff, ISD staff or residents,” she said. One of the biggest things Aledo has going for it is that the three-squaremile city is ground zero for the 130-square mile Aledo Independent School District - seven of the district’s nine campuses fall within Aledo city limits.

But another factor in Aledo’s success has been the City Council’s forward-thinking regarding infrastructure. Completion of the widening of FM 1187 in 2014 and the addition of the Aledo Trail couplet in the center of the city, along with securing a stable water supply from the City of Fort Worth, has poised Aledo for major growth and development in the near future. The number of housing starts in the city has boomed over the past couple of years, and shows no signs of letting up. Marshall attributed the successful implementation of infrastructure projects to the residents in the city and the city’s elected officials and staff. “We have elected officials and staff who, with varied backgrounds and opinions, work together to make great things happen for the city, its residents, its businesses, future residents and future businesses,” she said. 6 2014-2015

KATHY CHRUSCIELSKI/THE COMMUNITYY NEWS

The Kelly-Miller Circus visited Aledo in 2014. Recent annual circus visits in the spring add to three community festivals in the summer and the annual Christmas Tyme in Aledo to provide family events all year.

“I am convinced that the number one reason we have been able to make the progress we have in a short period of time is that the city’s elected officials work together very well with one mission, what is in the best interest of the residents and businesses. They can disagree, but can also work together and laugh together.” Marshall said the roadmap to the future came about because the city’s Economic Development Corporation engaged citizens in the decision-making process not only to form a Strategic Plan, but to implement it as well. The completion of the FM 1187 expansion, in particular, is a game-changer for the city. “It’s the culmination of a lot of pain over the past 18 months that will open tremendous doors of opportunity for our residents and businesses,” she said. “That includes improved

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Completion of the FM 1187 expansion means new opportunities for Aledo.

Your Parker County

www.yourparkercounty.com

Aledo

mobility, greater public safety both on the road and at the railroad, and quality of life.”

Population: 2,719

“Our future is exciting because of the expansion of 1187,” she said. “It is easier to come and go, it includes sidewalks to make it safer for people to walk or bicycle, landscaping that enhances and calms the drive and it includes a future gathering place.” Completion of the Aledo Trail brings with it the implementation of a Quiet Zone. New technology implemented at railroad crossings in the city will allow the approximately 32 trains that pass through the city each day to do so without blowing their hundred decibel-plus horns. Marshall started working on the Quiet Zone back about 2005 when she was on the city council. At that time the council gave approval for her to investigate. Area resident Rick Campbell helped in the process. But the technology

Phone: 817-441-7016 Mayor: Kit Marshall Mayor Pro Tem: Bill McLeRoy Council Members: Jean Bailey Matt Casey Kerby Smith Kim Hiebert City Administrator: Ken Pfeifer CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Aledo’s new elevated water storage not only provides a local landmark, it is symbolic of the city’s infrastructure improvements.

they were discussing at the time was different, and the timing of the couplet construction has allowed the city to implement a better, safer system. The completion of the infrastructure projects leaves Aledo at a crossroads. “Who do we want to be and how do we get there?” Marshall asked. Because

the city completed its Strategic Plan roadmap before all of the construction it makes the question easier to answer. “A lot of people want to compare us to Southlake or Frisco or Granbury,” Marshall said. But we want to create an Aledo destiny, not try to be another city. Aledo is Aledo.”

City Secretary: Deana McMullen City Hall: 200 Old Annetta Road Aledo, TX 76008 Monthly Council Meeting: 7 p.m. fourth Thursday of the month, Aledo Community Center, 104 Robinson Ct, Aledo, TX 76008 City Website: www. aledo-texas.com

Join us for the next Ride for Heroes

www.rideforheroes.org

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Your Parker County

2014-2015 7

Spotlight on... A

ledo resident Scott Myser said he and his wife, Sarah, chose Aledo because they were looking for a quality school system where she could teach, and where their children could go to school, and where he could set up his practice an an orthodontist. “It’s just such a great community - I feel like we have a great church, a great school - people look out for one another - parents look out not just for their own kids but for others’ as well,” he said. So late in 2010 Myser Orthodontics was born in Aledo, and brought with it an interesting story about how Scott Myser chose his life’s vocation. “My dad had braces in high school. He put his retainer in

Scott Myser Baylor College of Dentistry at A&M (located in Dallas), where he now teaches in the orthodontic residency program. On Monday mornings he lectures from 8-9 and then supervises an open clinic from 9-12 where the residents have cases they work up with him.

his shaving kit when he was in college. He packed up his car, and he put his shaving kit on top of the car and drove off. The next day he realized and decided he didn’t need to replace his retainer,” Myser said. A few years later, Scott was ready for his own braces. “My dad’s his teeth at this point had shifted. While I’m in there getting my exam my dad speaks up and says, ‘wow, I need to get my teeth fixed, too!’ So we ended up in braces together. “We went to an orthodontist who was about 30 minutes from our house. Our appointments were coordinated, so we always went to the orthodontist together. So every time I was in the car on the way to my braces appointment, I essentially got lectured

In addition to that and his practice in Aledo, Myser recently purchased Joe Crain’s practice in Willow Park. the whole time about how important it was to wear my retainer.” At the age of 14 Scott got his braces off, and that was the day he decided to become an orthodontist. Scott finished his undergraduate degree at Texas A&M in three years, and went to

Aledo Christian Center 241 N. Front St. 817-441-9062

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He and Sarah have a daughter, Abigail (5), who is starting kindergarten in Aledo ISD, and a son AJ (3). Scott serves on the committee of Young Life Aledo, Business Development Group of Aledo, Aledo Education Foundation board, and the Staff-Parish relations committee at Aledo United Methodist Church.

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Parker County Neighborhoods Aledo Estates • Crown Valley Estates Deer Ridge • Morgan Manor Parker Oaks Estates • Red Eagle Ranch

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Your Parker County

2014-2015 9

Annetta Population: 2,630 Phone: 817-441-5770 Mayor: Bruce Pinckard Mayor Pro Tem: Kent Stasey Council Members: Shane Mudge, Danny Coffman, Chuck Sheridan, George Ripley City Administrator/Secretary: Chad Roberts City Hall: 450 Thunder Head Lane, Annetta, TX 76008 Monthly Council Meeting: 7 p.m. third Thursday of the month, Annetta City Hall, 450 Thunder Head Lane, Annetta, TX 76008 City Website: www.annetta.org

Annetta North Population: 467 Phone: 817-441-2663 Mayor: Robert Schmidt Mayor Pro Tem: Rob Watson Council Members: Kristin Jenkins, Stonie Hamilton, Ken Hall, Len Callaway City Secretary: Sheila Elmore City Hall: PO Box 1238 Aledo, TX 76008 Monthly Council Meeting: 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month, in the fellowship hall of the Annetta Methodist Church, 1273 W Farm Road 5, Annetta, TX 76008 City Website: www.annettanorth.com

Annetta South Population: 555 Phone: 940-682-7446 Mayor: Gerhard Kleinschmidt Mayor Pro Tem: Bill Gordon Council Members: Philip Kuntz, Jimmy Harvell, Ellen Woodward, David Goolsby City Secretary: Daina Lawler Monthly Council Meeting: 7 p.m. second Thursday, 1200 Old Annetta Rd, Aledo, TX 76008 City Website: www.annettasouth.org 10 2014-2015

Annettas Focus on Rural Living

By Rosealee Hoffman

The Community News

he cities sharing the name “Annetta” began in the mid1870s when a man named A.B. Frasier opened a freight station and store, and named the area after his daughter, Annetta. A century later, fearing annexation by the growing city of Fort Worth, residents incorporated the community of Annetta in 1979. Soon they were joined by the cities of Annetta North and Annetta South. All three cities are closely tied in history and in their current priority – dealing with population growth as the entire area expands. The city of Annetta leads the three communities in growth and recently annexed Split Rail Golf Course, Split Rail Estates and an undeveloped area on the community’s north side. Annetta City Secretary Chad Roberts says the city’s primary objective is still the expansion of the water system, especially with the new annexation. The city plans to add another well on the north side near Split Rail Estates to facilitate the added demand from new development. Last year alone, the city added one new Rim Rock well, refurbished four ground storage tanks and rehabilitated two other wells. Roberts pointed out that Annetta is the only local community that has not gone into water restrictions this summer. “It’s already August and we aren’t into our drought contingency plans at this time,” Roberts said. “We’ve had some rain this summer and the supply is replenishing properly right now.”

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Thomas Britton checks out the tomatoes at the Annetta Farmers Market, open Sunday afternoons.

Another resource the communities are looking toward is adding a new fire station in Annetta South. Roberts says this station is important for all three Annettas.

emergency responders to reach us,” Roberts said. The cities continue to work together closely to preserve their heritage while preparing for further growth.

“We are all on the south side of the railroad tracks and if there’s a problem like a train derailment, there is no way for

Your Parker County

www.yourparkercounty.com

POINTING YOU TOWARDS THE

HOME OF YOUR DREAMS

Agents you can trust when buying or selling real estate in Parker County

(817) 717-6036 www.PointsWestAgency.com The Community News

Your Parker County

2014-2015 11

Spotlight on... F

MORE PARKER COUNTY LOCATIONS THAN ANY OTHER BANK Downtown Weatherford

101 N. Main

Downtown Drive-Thru

210 N. Main

College Park

101 College Park

Adams Drive

745 Adams Drive

North Main

1214 N. Main

Aledo

505 FM 1187 N.

Willow Park

4100 East I-20

Brock

1100 FM 1189

Fort Worth

550 Bailey Ave., Suite 300

EXPANDING IN FORT WORTH

By Phil Major

The Community News

or almost 10 years, a horse sanctuary known as Ironstar Farm on the edge of Aledo has welcomed animals from around the country. Oftentimes it is the horse’s last resort, said Jennifer Fulton, who established the sanctuary. A veterinarian or another trainer may have decided that the horse is beyond hope and needs to be put to sleep. Unfortunately, the need for Jennifer’s services far outstrips her ability to help. “There is always a waiting list,” she said. And there are few such facilities. Sometimes the horse’s needs may be physical, or it might be emotional, or both. Some might even be considered dangerous. Mostly Fulton works with older horses, though not always. Fulton noted that horses are seldom abused that she sees, but they have been mistreated, and mostly that is a lack of knowledge of horse behavior. “This is a sanctuary for the (horses),” she said. And she has several members of the community who help feed and care for the horses.

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12 2014-2015

Ironstar is not a profitmaking business, Fulton said. “This is all on me.” In addition to the love and care she gives to horses in need, Fulton also gives riding lessons in the area to help pay the bills. She is classically trained in dressage, and noted that there is becoming more interest in English style riding around this area, in addition to Parker County’s long-standing reputation as the cutting horse capital.

Your Parker County

She said that her classical training is very beneficial to her role in helping horses. She also holds a pharmacy technician license and works at that often enough to keep up her license. Fulton wound up at the Aledo location by accident, she says. She was helping a friend in the area and drove by the location, on Old Annetta Road just past the curve, where llamas were being raised. She thought it was a beautiful property that would make a good location for horses. That property came up for sale. She has been around horses for about 30 years. But what she does is not so much training as just an understanding of horses. “It’s sort of a gift and a talent,” she said. Anyone can ride a horse, she said, but not everyone can understand them. “It’s very important to know a horse.” She explained that we are asking horses to live in our

www.yourparkercounty.com

Ironstar Farm

26,100+ City Population i 35% Growth since 2000 i Fort Worth-Arlington MD /DFW MSA

IHIH-35W

“The Western Gateway Business Centre of the DFW Metroplex”

¾ Established Regional Retail Center of Parker County: S. Main St. & Interstate 20 - Exit 408.

i Wal-Mart SuperCenter, Home Depot & Office Max - NWQ. i The Weatherford MarketPlace Center, SEQ - Lowe’s, Target, Kohl’s., BestBuy. i Weatherford Ridge Shopping Center, NEQ - JCPenney, Belk, TJ Maxx. iCollege Park SC - Super Save & Big Lots!; Main Street Plaza SC; Parker Plaza SC & Brookshire’s; Albertsons/City Farmer’s Market.

¾ Weatherford Regional Medical Center & Santa Fe Dr. “Financial Corridor”. ¾ Historic Downtown Square, CBD/NEZ & York St. Districts - Texas “Main Street” city. ¾ Business/Industrial Parks: 40-acre Hobson IP - shovel-ready at FM 920 & RWMH; 40 acre Weatherford Corporate Center - Fielder Dr.; 100 - acre Weatherford West - W. IH20, Exit 406.

City of Weatherford Economic Development 202 W. Oak St. * Weatherford, Texas 76086 * 817.594.9429 * Direct 817.598.4302 dclayton@weatherfordtx.gov; www.weatherfordtxeda.org CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Mimi Rogers rides as Jennifer Fulton trains.

• Nutritional Lunch & Snacks Provided • Cutting Edge Curriculum

world, so it’s necessary for us to become a “little more horse” if we want them to be “a little human.” What some might consider as a horse misbehaving is actually just the horse’s natural behavior, she explained. While they are very smart animals, they do not have the ability to reason, and therefore don’t understand that a particular behavior is “right” or “wrong.” It’s just how they behave, she said. Working with the horses might take as little as a month, with one particular behavior to address, or it could be much longer, up to a year or more. In addition to working with the horses, Fulton will also work with the owners. And just as important as treating the horses is finding the right place for them to go when they are finished working with Fulton. Sometimes that can take two or three tries to get the right match. A network has developed to help get the horses to a place they can call home.

www.SproutsLearningCenter.net 817.441.1906 5073 I-20 Service Road North 6 am – 6 pm ~ Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years

“I have been so fortunate to help as many as I have,” she said.

The Community News

Your Parker County

2014-2015 13

Brock B

By Tony Eierdam

The Community News

rock is an unincorporated area in Parker county about 11 miles southwest of Weatherford on the far southwest side of the county. Although not formally a township, the allure of residing in Brock is its award-winning school district. In the 2013-14 school year, Brock finished sixth in the state in Class 2A in the Lone Star Cup. Lone Star Cup is an overall competition in which schools earn points in state and area marching band, team tennis, cross country, volleyball, football, swimming and diving, wrestling, girls basketball, boys basketball, golf, track and field, academics, one-act play, softball and baseball. Brock, which won the Lone Star Cup in school years 200809 and 2009-10, has placed in the top six for the fourth consecutive year. The Brock community and school district prides itself by providing students with a challenging as well as rigorous academic experience and also a variety of extracurricular activities. All three campuses have outstanding UIL Academic programs in addition to other activities. The 2013-2014 school year was a special one for current and former Brock Eagles. The Lady Eagles basketball team celebrated its 100th year as a program and Brock High School fielded its first ever varsity football program, playing an independent schedule. This season, the Eagles football team will play a full schedule and play in its first district, District 4-3A, Division I. Brock ISD is now a Class 3A school district with approximately 1,000 students in grades Pre-K-12.  The district covers about 105 square miles and is located in southwest Parker County. The district has three campuses including 14

2014-2015

Excelling at Education Brock High School, which serves grades 9 through 12; Brock Junior High School, which serves grades 6 through 8; and Brock Elementary School, which serves grades Pre-K through 5. Brock ISD superintendent is Richard Tedder, a 39-year educator, who served twelve years as a secondary science teacher at the junior high and high school levels, eight years as a junior high principal/ transportation director, one year as an elementary principal, and the remaining years as a school superintendent at Lindale ISD and now at Brock. Tedder received his bachelor and master of science degrees from Stephen F. Austin State University in biology and chemistry. He completed his mid-management certification at the University of Texas at Tyler and superintendent’s certification at Stephen F. Austin State University. Brock opened its new high school facility in August 2009 on 162 acres of property, and because of its supportive community, Brock ISD enjoys one of the best educational environments in the state. The elementary facility is only eight years old and provides a beautiful setting for the education

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Chef Joel Rhodes stands at his new Backroads Cafe in Brock.

of its students Pre-K through fifth grades. The junior high building was constructed in 1996 and is a quality facility for the academic and athletic development of students in grades six thru eight. Brock ISD has added new artificial turf facilities at the high school for baseball, softball, and foot-

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Royce Mitchell playing tennis at Brock Junior High.

Your Parker County

ball. These facilities are bring a lot of attention to the district. Brock High School offers more on campus dual credit courses in English, math, science, history, etc. than any school in the area. Several Brock ISD teachers have masters degrees in their teaching fields and provide these college level courses to its students, which district officials say save students’ parents thousands of dollars in college expenses. In addition, Brock ISD students have and continue to compete at the state level in many academic and extracurricular activities such as headline writing, debate, math, calculator applications, speaking events, boys and girls basketball, baseball, track, cross country, tennis, volleyball, softball, etc. Brock’s state championships – including five of the past six girls state basketball championships - continue to add to the tradition of excellence at Brock ISD.

www.yourparkercounty.com

Hudson Oaks N

By Phil Major

The Community News

o property tax. Political stability. Growing, planned retail development. Expanding entertainment options. Open communication between city leaders and residents. Did we mention no property tax? All that – and more – can be found in Hudson Oaks, Texas, situated at Interstate 20 and U.S. 180 in East Parker County. While it is a city on the grow, it is also a city that is working hard to plan for, and manage, that growth. The city council recently adopted a strategic plan, its fourth in eight years. The plan identifies the city’s priorities and goals. At the top of the list is that the city does not assess any property taxes – unique among full-service cities. Its chief revenue source is sales taxes, and the strategic plan focuses on economic development so that the city can continue to grow revenues without having to consider assessing taxes against home and business owners. Hudson Oaks was formed in 1978 when two housing developments decided the city’s position between Weatherford to the west and Fort Worth to the east needed some protection. In those intervening 36 years, the city has had only four mayors. That level of stability has allowed the city to become deeply involved in planning, with long-range comprehensive plans and shorter-term strategic plans on the books. “We have reached a lot of the goals,” City Manager Patrick Lawler said, and the recently adopted plan has more ambitious goals.

The Community News

Branching Out

Among the things that have come to fruition recently are the improvements made along U.S. 180, the city’s main thoroughfare. Monument signs on either end of the highway announce to travelers that they are entering Hudson Oaks. The attractive monuments, along with native landscaping, let motorists know they aren’t just driving down the highway. They have entered a vibrant, progressive community. Roads play an important role now and in Hudson Oaks’ future. Work on the Lakeshore bridge over the interstate will soon get under way. And the eastern section of the Ric Williamson Memorial Highway loop around Weatherford is another key piece, as it will intersect U.S. 180 and I-20 on the western edge of Hudson Oaks. The reworking of the FM 5/Mikus Road intersection with I-20 on the city’s eastern border will be another improvement that will benefit Hudson Oaks. Among the ideas the city will explore, according to the strategic plan, is full access for all residents to high-speed internet. The idea is in the exploratory stages and could come to fruition in the next year or two. On top of the political and infrastructure strengths of Hudson Oaks is the communication. “There is a sense of buy-in in Hudson Oaks,” said Lawler. “We have a partnership with our residents.” The city has recently launched a blog, which can be accessed through the city’s website, to increase communication.

Your Parker County

2014-2015 15

Hudson Oaks

For example, one of the targets in the strategic plan is to consider a drainage fee, which would be assessed to property owners to pay for the portion of street improvements directly related to water runoff, such as curbs and ditches – about 25-30 percent of the overall cost.

Population: 1,860 Phone: 682-229-2400 Mayor: Pat Deen Mayor Pro Tem: Tom Fitzpatrick

That idea will be explained in detail on the blog, so that the conversation can begin with residents. Retail and business development remains in the forefront of Hudson Oaks’ planning efforts. A new retail center is planning to open in August, which will help expand the city’s retail base. The goal is to make Hudson Oaks a destination, not just a place to pass through. “We want to encourage all of Parker County to shop locally,” Lawler said, and that means having shopping, dining and entertainment destinations that are desirable. Hudson Oaks is well on its way, with a fullservice cinema and the opening a year ago of the Splash Kingdom Wild West water park. Next on the horizon is seeking hotel/motel developers in that area, and then using the room taxes to further promote the community. That’s another goal that could become reality in the next couple of years.

Council Members: Glen Sutton Brian Lixey Marty Schrantz Marc Povero

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

A new retail center under construction in 2014 adds to Hudson Oaks’ sales tax base.

City Administrator: Patrick Lawler

Another way Hudson Oaks is working to become an attraction is through Boomin’ 4th. The Independence Day celebration completed its third year in 2014 and drew around 15,000 people to the community. The city pours its resources into one signature event a year, and the result is the best family-oriented event and fireworks display in the area.

City Secretary: Shelley Major City Hall: 210 N. Lakeshore Dr. Hudson Oaks, TX 76087 Monthly Council Meeting: 7 p.m. fourth Thursday, Hudson Oaks City Hall, 210 N. Lakeshore Dr., Hudson Oaks, TX 76087

The city has adopted the slogan, “Branching Out.” It is part of the city’s branding effort to help plan for and manage the growth that is occurring and forecasted for East Parker County.

City Website: www.hudsonoaks.com

“When Hudson Oaks is developed out, it will have a sense of place,” Lawler explained.

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of the Board of Urology Diplomat of American the American Board of Urology Dr. Deshmukh is a Fellow of the Diplomat Dr. Deshmukh is a Fellow of American College of Surgeons, and the American Surgeons, and s, and received an MBACollege from of Texas Women’s received aninMBA fromHeTexas Women’s University 2009. received his en’s University in 2009. He Administration received his se-sinsesecond MBA in Health cond MBA in Health Administra�on in 2012. 2012. in 2012. He is a member of the American Medical edical He is a member of the American Medical Associa�on, Texas �on, Association, TexasMedical MedicalAssocia�on, Association, American College cu�ves, American CollegeofofHealthcare HealthcareExecu�ves, American College of Physician Executives, American CollegeExecu�ves of Physician u�ves Executives andAssocia�on AmericanofAssociation and American Clinical l of Clinical Urologists. Urologists.

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Millsap A

Staff Reports

The Community News

small community on FM 113, 15 miles west of Weatherford, the town of Millsap is currently home to around 400 people.

educational center for the surrounding area. Fuller Millsap founded the small town in 1852, and his log cabin; a donation by Dr. A. T. Little and Criseyda Koonce, stands in a park near Millsap City Hall as a testament to the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history.

Originally a relay station along the stagecoach route that ran from Palo Pinto to Weatherford, Millsap is now a retail, church, business, and

In 1880, the tracks of the Texas and Pacific Railroad entered the area and Millsap took advantage of the shipping capabilities of the new technology.

Millsap

By the 1890s, Millsap had become the shipping and retail center of the surrounding country, serving local farmers and offering retail services to those otherwise isolated farming communities.

Population: 403 Phone: 940-682-7446 Mayor: Jamie French Mayor Pro Tem: Michael Kinman

By 1900, Millsap had a bank, a post office, three churches, a ten-grade educational facility called Millsap College, a weekly newspaper, and more than a dozen other businesses.

Council Members: Sally Uribe Chris Schofield Yolanda Malloux Teresa Howard City Manager/Secretary: Mark Barnes

The population increased from an estimated 100 to more than 800 by the 1920s, all as a result of the railway, which prompted two surrounding communities to move to the Millsap relay station area to take advantage of the transportation system.

City Hall: 208 Fannin Millsap, TX 76066 Monthly Council Meeting: 7 p.m. last Tuesday of the months, Millsap City Hall, 208 Fannin, Millsap, TX 76066 City Website: none

Thus Mineral City and Peck City merged with Millsap.

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Coach Adam Myer supervises a spring workout for athlete Eric Thomas at Millsap High School.

Though the population has declined through the years as farming in the area has declined, Millsap is still a thriving community today.

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Millsap ISD is one large draw to the area. Home of the Bulldogs, this school district covers 124 square miles, and is the third largest ISD in Parker County, serving close to 800 students.

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2014-2015 17

Spotlight on...

plash Kingdom Wild West opened its doors a year ago, in the summer of 2013 in Hudson Oaks, and the water park has become a popular spot to relax and cool off for Parker County and the surrounding area. In addition to acres of pools and water rides, the park features regular events, special days and opportunities for groups to enjoy the park. The park opens Memorial Day weekend and closes after

Labor Day, with daily hours from 11 a.m., closing at 6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Some of the special events this summer have been Christmas in July with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, the Cowboy Monkey, and Twiggy the water skiing squirrel.

Splash Kingdom

for special events. New River Fellowship drew 1,500 guests for a recent baptism ceremony in which more than 100 members were baptized. The first Parker County Mama Day drew almost 2,000 patrons, and plans are to hold the special family days monthly, with discount tickets.

The park attempted to set a world record in August 2014 with the largest water balloon fight on the planet.

The city of Hudson Oaks, which plays host to the park, held a family event for its residents in early August.

Several groups have rented or plan to rent the park

The city is promoting having hotels located in the area

to further enhance the park’s place as an attraction for Parker County. Marketing coordinator Rebecca Haug said in addition to attracting Parker County residents, the park has drawn guests from Abilene, Stephenville, Granbury and other areas. The park added three new slides last winter, and Haug said the plan is to add new attractions every year.

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Peaster A

. farming community just north of Weatherford, Peaster began settlement in the 1870s when Georgia native H.H. Peaster bought 160 acres of land and built a house. The community that developed near the site of his home was originally called Freemont; in 1885 the name was changed to Peasterville. Throughout the 20th century, Peaster has served area farmers as a school and church community. During the mid-1920s the town’s population grew to approximately 300, but this was soon followed by a steep decline after the Great Depression. From 1975 to 1990, Peaster had around 80

residents. Current estimates put the population at 150.

back-to-back Class 2A state basketball championships in 1999 and 2000.

The Peaster Independent School District is an agricultural area located in Parker County that includes the unincorporated community of Peaster on FM Road 920. The district is located approximately 30 miles west of Fort Worth, and 12 miles west of Weatherford.

Peaster’s claim to fame is being the birthplace of Robert E. Howard, the brainchild behind Conan The Barbarian movies, book series, television programs, numerous books and comics since his creation. Peaster ISD has grown from a one-room schoolhouse to three comprehensive campuses, numerous athletic fields and facilities, agriculture facilities, maintenance and technology buildings, a transportation center and a stateof-the-art administration facility.

Peaster High School has many sports which include basketball, baseball, golf, tennis, track and field, softball, volleyball and cross country. Peaster has a rich basketball history as both boys and girls teams are perennial playoff qualifiers. The Peaster boys won

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Peaster artist Ariel Menchaca makes folk art to decorate the family’s new restaurant Menchaca’s Cocina one block north of Peaster High School.

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For over a quarter of a century PlainsCapital Bank has served the great state of Texas, forging long-lasting relationships and proudly utilizing our financial strength to help individuals and businesses in Parker County prosper and move forward. Contributing to the economic growth and success of the communities we serve is our number one priority.

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2014-2015 19

Poolville Poolville was established in the 1880s and rests at the junction of Farm To Market roads 3107 and 920, 18 miles northwest of Weatherford along FM 920. Poolville is named for a large pool of water just east of the town. The rural community of about 520 residents attracts newcomers to its rural atmosphere. With the growth of Parker County, Poolville’s population has returned to levels not seen since before the Depression. In the 1930s the economic downturn impacted the farming community as the population decreased. Poolville had 350 residents in the

1950s and sank to 230 in the ‘80s. The school district also attracts newcomers. Poolvilloe ISD was established in 1895, and the district now includes elementary, middle and high schools. The Poolville athletic teams have established a winning tradition in girls and boys basketball, volleyball, cross country, track and field, baseball, tennis and golf. The Monarchs and Lady Monarchs will play in District 11-2A in basketball, in District 102A in volleyball and in District 10-2A in baseball beginning this year. Poolville schools has a Met Standard academic rating in 2014.

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Poolville Firefighter Candis Novak fills one of the station’s trucks after a grass fire run.

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Springtown

New and exciting

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Springtown’s newest park features Splashpad, a water park for younger children, plus a picnic area and playground on Hilltop Dr.

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2014-2015 21

By Phil Major

The Community News

t seems any direction you look, you’ll find something new and exciting in Springtown. Perhaps topping that list is the opening of the new Splash Pad Park, which opened in the spring of 2014 to rave reviews. The park is attracting an average of 150 patrons a day coming to cool off in the Texas summer. The park is open seven days a week, 10-6 Monday through Saturday and 1-6 on Sunday. Daily and season passes are available at city hall. Parks are obviously an important part of community life in Springtown, as other developments testify. Last year the city opened a disc golf course, and that too is attracting participants. Players are coming from the Metroplex to check out

the 18-hole layout, and one disc golf association is holding competition there. The downtown Tabernacle Square, the city’s iconic landmark, is getting ready for some upgrades. The city council has appointed a tabernacle committee that is in the process of raising private funds to cover the estimated $125,000 in repairs and upgrades to the facility, which has been the center of community life for many decades. A new roof is the first order of business. New concrete flooring and other upgrades are in the works. The committee to-date has raised almost $40,000. Local eateries have pitched in, donating proceeds from events such as Tabernacle Taco Wednesdays. Housing is always a sure sign that things are looking up, and a couple of recent permits for new homes in Park Place Village, a planned develop-

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Jake Wyatt and Joe Sexton enjoy a round of disc golf.

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Springtown Population: 2,658

ment, point to strengthening of the local housing market. Improved medical facilities are another good sign, with the opening of the Springtown Family Health Clinic, which will house several specialists by appointment, in addition to the general practice physicians. Some new businesses that have opened with a vote of confidence in Springtown include a new Auto Zone, True Value hardware, and eating establishments B&B Burger, Texas Bistro Café and Cedar Village LTD. (ice cream and paninis are on the menu). The square and State Highway 199 are primary areas for new businesses.

Mayor: Doug Hughes Mayor Pro Tem: Tony D. Smith Council Members: Annette Burk Denise Taylor Robert E. Wilson Greg Hood

The event draws more than 200 arts and crafts and food vendors and features local entertainment, a carnival and a children’s area.

City Administrator: Mark Krey

Other events throughout the year include the just-concluded bike rally in June, And of course there’s Christmas on the Square, planned for Dec. 13 in 2014. Helping coordinate many of the community events is the Springtown Chamber of Commerce which boasts more than 230 members.

The big event in Springtown every year happens in the fall, with

Phone: 817-220-4834

the Wild West Festival, planned this year on Saturday, Sept. 20. This will be the 30th installment, and the associated Barbecue Cookoff will take place for the 15th time.

City Secretary: Jhanna Bogan City Hall: 102 East Second Street Springtown, Texas 76082 Monthly Council Meeting: 6:30 p.m. fourth Thursday, Springtown City Hall, 102 East Second Street CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Carol Blackwood and Jhanna Bogan at work in Springtown City Hall.

City Website: www.cityofspringtown.com

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2014-2015 23

Weatherford T

Regional Hub

By Randy Keck

The Community News

he City of Weatherford continued on its path to becoming a regional center over the past year. Dennis Clayton, executive director of the Weatherford Economic Development Authority, said the city is “very much a regional retail shopping center. We know that our trade population is larger even than our county population. We are attracting far beyond our secondary market.” In addition to retail, the city has seen growth over the last year in its industrial and medical sectors as well. Beverage distributor Keg One is moving to Weatherford from Mineral Wells, and an 85,000 square foot warehouse will anchor additional industrial development in the area around BB Fielder Road in the southern portion of the city. The location’s access to I-20 is key to its future. Clayton said the $10 million project will bring about 100 jobs to the city. “That’s what we call a primary project because it has industrial warehousing so it creates good-paying jobs, and the tax evaluation of inventory, equipment and trucks is higher than a commercial project or a retail project,” Clayton said. On the medical side, a new 26,000-square-foot in-patient rehab hospital is under construction at Eureka and Santa Fe. The $5 million project will bring about another 100 quality jobs to the city. Clayton expects development to continue, especially once construction is complete on new access roads on the west side of the city. “We do know that QuikTrip will be building on the northeast corner of South Bowie

24 2014-2015

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Weatherford Regional Medical Center has been at the epicenter of the growth in medical services in the city.

and the Interstate when that is completed,” Clayton said. “Those frontage roads, that new development and the west loop interchange that was completed in April - that’s going to generate some continued and increased interest west of the South Main/Tin Top development,” he added. Over the past year additional projects are at or near completion, such as the Rio Mambo shopping center and the facelift of College Park Center. Land has been purchased for a new movie theater/bowling alley on Texas Drive. Clayton said construction was expected to begin before the end of 2014. “That’s a 74,000-squarefoot major development - it fills a really good entertainment gap, so we’re looking forward to that,” he said.

New frontage road in front of Marketplace Center (Target) and in front of Belk have continued to make that full development possible and efficient. The frontage roads are a significant factor in the location for the movie theater/bowling alley. Clayton said completion of the West Loop “relieves truck traffic downtown, which is a positive,” and provides access to Weatherford’s northwest industrial park. “It has already enhanced the value of that land and the interest in that land,” he said.

Your Parker County

Quality of Life Aside from all the economic development, Clayton said Weatherford is a great place to live. “I’ve been here ten years. We love this place,” he said.

Looking east, the county is taking steps to begin the east loop between Weatherford and Hudson Oaks. “That’s going to have a great impact on our west city limits with Hudson Oaks because that’s a heavier traf-

fic area. It will have a great impact on both communities in terms of access for development opportunities. Once that interchange is built (2015) you’ll see some frontage roads between Bankhead and Hudson Oaks that will complete and generate more development on the Interstate.”

Clayton said the number one factor in not only Weatherford, but Parker County, is the quality and the options of schools. “Whatever school you want your children to go to - 5A, 4A, 2A, residential development

www.yourparkercounty.com

specialty level. Clayton served on the Weatherford Regional Medical Center board for six years.

is available in all areas of the county and the cities. It allows people that choice. That generates a lot of the growth we have - rooftops are critical.”

“That hospital has improved significantly and we have good medical services right here - they have recruited more than 25 physicians to provide services here, and there’s more on the horizon. It’s important to have the services locally.”

“The shopping we have just in the ten years I’ve been here - that ability to shop, and future projects to access entertainment at home and not having to drive to the west metroplex - that’s part of our growth as well.” Clayton said the city has had some success in keeping a growing traffic load moving. “I know the South Main expansion was painful, but it’s awesome now. Quality of life is enhanced traveling around town. Plus additional development is creating jobs so our citizens can work close to home and not commute to Fort Worth.” Finally, Weatherford has made great strides in increasing local access to medical care, both at the primary and

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Weatherford has numerous classical historic structures, such as the South Main Church of Christ, shown above.

“Between the cities and Parker County we’re keeping up with our transportation needs and we’re going to continue to grow. We’ve seen an amazing amount of retail growth, office growth, hotel growth - we’re beginning to see a real recovery in the housing market and new subdivisions and new rooftops are very important to our growth,” he concluded.

Weatherford Population: 25,940 Phone: 817-598-4000 Mayor: Dennis Hooks Mayor Pro Tem: Craig Swancy Council Members: Heidi Wilder Jeff Robinson Waymon Hamilton City Administrator: Jerry Blaisedell City Secretary: Malinda Nowell City Hall: 303 Palo Pinto St. Weatherford, TX 76086 Council Meetings: 6:30 p.m. second and fourth Tuesday of the month, Weatherford City Hall, 303 Palo Pinto St., Weatherford, TX 76086 City Website: ci.weatherford.tx.us

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2014-2015 25

Spotlight on... I

Trailhead by Gale M. Bradford The Community News

n 1865, Horace Greeley advised young men to go west. Today, that same advice applies to hikers, bikers and horseback riders, via the Weatherford Trailhead that rolls through farm and ranch land west, to Lake Mineral Wells State Park. The trail, converted from railway to trailway, begins off FM 920, northwest of Weatherford, in central Parker County, and travels 20 miles westward to the downtown district of Mineral Wells in eastern Palo Pinto County. The 10-foot-wide trail is connected to the state park and has four trail heads. They are located near Weatherford, Garner, the state park and downtown Mineral Wells. Each Trailhead has paved parking, water, restrooms and trail information. Self-pay stations are located at each entrance. Daily entrance fee is $7 for anyone over age 13. State park passes are available for $70 per year. The self-pay stations make it somewhat difficult to estimate usage, said David Owens, assistant park superintendent. “But we know many people use the trailway. It has a good surface; there’s no traffic and safety is not an issue,” Owens said. “At the Weatherford Trailhead, you’ll see a lot of physical fitness folks; runners, bikers and hikers. Most equestrians come from the Weatherford and Garner entrances,” he said. Bicyclist Brandi Buckner has been using the Weatherford Trailhead about 10 years and she agrees with Owens about the safety and surface. “I was concerned about safety. I mean you’re in the middle of nowhere. But then

I went out there with my son to ride and found it to be perfectly safe. Now, it’s like I got married to the trail. I try to go three to four times a week,” Buckner said. Buckner said she rides to Mile 6 and back, or 12 miles roundtrip. “If I’m really in the zone, I go farther,” she said. “I love the surface. I don’t like to ride on pavement,” said Buckner, who has a counseling practice in Weatherford. “And you can see all types of wildlife. I’ve seen fox, bobcat, lots of bunnies and some snakes. The trail is well-kept and clean.” Her husband, County Court at Law Judge Jerry Buckner rides four miles, out and back. The surface is finely crushed and screened limestone and because the trail is converted from a railroad bed, its grades are very flat and curves are gentle, making it popular with trail users of all ages and abilities, Owens said. Jaime Doherty likes the surface too and said it’s great for her five to 10-mile runs and also a good surface for her road bike. The emergency and critical care veterinarian at I-20 Animal Hospital, said the trail makes her feel like a part of nature. “It’s secluded but I feel safe. I’ve never had anyone approach me inappropriately,” she said. Internship at a Parker County equine sports medicine and surgery facility brought Doherty here from Peterborough, Ontario. “I’m Canadian and I was looking for a scenic trail to run my dogs. I take my two labs, Remington and Sampson, as often as I can.” “The trailway is very diverse,” Owens said. “From exercise to bird watching, there’s always something going on that is interesting.” The trailway opened June 6, 1998, celebrating the 75th anniversary of state parks. PHOTOS BY GALE BRADFORD/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

FROM TOP: Looking for a scenic trail to run her dogs, Remington and Sampson, Jaime Doherty, DVM, found the perfect place at the Weatherford Trailhead. | Brady Johnston of Garner said he rides 22 miles on the trailway three to four times a week. | Kandice Garrett and Krista Beach said they enjoy seeing the wildlife. | Brandi and Jerry Buckner of Weatherford have heard the call to go west and they ride on the trail several times a week. 26 2014-2015

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ALEDO ISD

of dation to be part Education Foun tees) to challenge (trus on their experiit, but I would want to brag e expeto hear those . “HB5 if they outside of thos said like eone ld Citty som wou ,” nd fi emy s, we e fresh blood Bearcat Acad to look ence and bring som .” urages districts cat riences - things as well inin strongly enco bers of the Bear to have participa Citty said. ◗ Year-long tra Citty said mem a person who d with a in,” for opportunities munity, and this allow ente ld y pres nit wou t be mu “Tha will com the can Academy of our inner work tion from our members of com cs throughout ple of how we has not been part ict to experience number of topi is a prime exam am here in the distr By Tony Eierd what the dist- year. , and we ings do that. learn News trus ectly n to corr seve like is this the The Community of t it “If we do around wha wrong with the “We need each to ducing the ing al rolls intro Noth vidu t. June is indi abou an Aledo ISD will, by the time citizens who are trict is Foundation ram for ees to nominate or Education emy, a prog 30 . We will also e- 2025 folks Bearcat Acad learn come to the academy we will have ersed in the and knowledg community to they are imm as well, and well informed ings involve the principals members of the and folks, but done we very inner comings t the inner work right now. is all said and this proin-depth abou the district able about the start from to ons by the time it ict like patr distr ld ol “We wou - will have approximately 30 of AISD. goings of the scho the administrawho we can t Derek Citty intro 30 fresh folks to Superintenden government side ation side,” Citty gram with this process.” trustees in the first group.” tings will ram to school side to the oper said the mee it run through es said duced the prog tive and Rigu Citty ity, by ict. rtun distr 21. Trustee Bob a great oppo cat be involve several areas of the Monday, July re said. “It is to the school lar to the Bear Academy will one meeting whe programs simi m in The Bearcat y grows investors meet “We will have in,” he reall gained momentu ens who will s folks come Academy have ict. in to ation a group of citiz distr ing oper ities start ting rtun our mee oppo year – have another ISD recent years. also gives us “It e will the d nine times per som “We dfor with . a get said s-Be for ugh June brains and “Hu rst-E ules tees come in onSeptember thro pick the citizens’ ram on a nati where three trus that we could mber. n about their ed their prog tive criticism exception of Dece worked with sim- round-table discussio g the way shar ,” Rigues said. “(Southlake) will construc trustees. That rove things alon ram al level Citty said he has school onsibilities as talk use to imp had this prog through this stops at previous ISD resp oll ISD has of the class to I have been . they Carr bers r well and ilar groups in as s, o mem othe year on times in ise Dugger, Aled nal allow e for several t their motivati a number of districts. Den h look- in plac successful in what they are to trustees abou board, what your process ctor of Professio I am very muc are very Executive Dire of districts districts, and bility, will for running for the t you like have seen a lot and Accounta doing this. emy. responsibilities are, wha th- doing. We Development climate of ing forward to on” of the acad will do this toge nt this in the and things you leme imp “Denise and I be the “point pers excited about the about being a trustee, this y excited about ity engagement.” are mun ge. we com chan “We are reall to and er, about three would like tour camshared a story will Citty bers ess.” posprogram at “The mem ity to proc ed trustees to from a similar the opportun being Citty challeng vidu- citizens We puses and have who ended up ide of the indi actually operate. Carroll ISD sibly go outs see how things in the AISD the district. kids – high lved for of p invo tees dy grou trus grow a alrea will bring in opportunity to the Education y – for als and likel good a ee than mitt “It’s e Com in,” Citty school kids mor their 2025 ers from with n. ussions about a future lead round-table disc our (administra- Foundatio ectly fine for perf be . ld and “It wou mittee or said experiences, if they ber 30 of the 2025 Com be very thick Volume 25, Num ly and member tion) skin will Published Week g critical to say, have somethin (817) 441-7661 CRIBE CALL

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Willow Park

City of Growth Plan sees an intermix of housing. Shaffstall said the city will see higher-density residential than it has seen in the past, but added “what we call high density in Willow Park is not high density in Fort Worth.” “There is a need for a diversity of housing products,” Shaffstall said. “The model of full-acre or quarter-acre homes is not realistic with modern development. The market is interested in bigger homes on smaller lots.” Along with the new concept of medium density, “the city plans to raise development standards with creeks and gutters, enhanced landscaping and additional improvements,” he said.

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Texas Health Outpatient Center Willow Park will feature a freestanding emergency department, fitness center and 3-story medical office building. Services will include cardiac rehabilitation, behavioral health, physical therapy, laboratory services, advanced imaging, and a chronic disease management program.

By Randy Keck

The Community News

s the second-largest city in Parker County, Willow Park is experiencing extensive growth. “Willow Park has seen tremendous economic growth,

and we anticipate that continuing the next few years,” said City Administrator Matt Shaffstall. The expected completion of the new $25 million Texas Health Resources facility in the Crown Valley area will add to the new Village at Crown

Park apartments and the recently-opened Willow Park Rehabilitation in the area. “We really expect to see that corridor of the city develop,” Shaffstall said. Willow Park’s recently completed Comprehensive

Education & Artistry

2014-2015

To aid in the anticipated growth of the city, Willow Park hired Michael Grace to be the city’s Development Services Director. He will be in charge of the building department, responsible for reviewing plans, coordinating work with

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The two areas of the city where the most growth is anticipated are in Crown Point and in the area southeast of the Ranch House RoadInterstate 20 intersection. Both areas have road and water infrastructure already in place.

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2014-2015 29

Willow Park

developers, and as a liaison with the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Population: 4,500 Phone: 817-441-7108

Willow Park is also working to upgrade an aging infrastructure. The city is in Phase I of its road improvement plan, upgrading about a dozen streets in 2014-15. Secondly, the city is replacing many of its 50-year-old water lines. Shaffstall said that through an interconnect contract with the City of Weatherford, Willow Park will have a steady stream of water for the future. With Weatherford’s surface water available, the city can use its wells to control peak times of need.

Quality of Life Shaffstall said Willow Park’s base of large, wooded lots give it a great sense of place. The creation of a Parks Board will help shape how the residents of the city enjoy its amenities.

Mayor: Richard Neverdousky Mayor Pro Tem: Gene Martin Council Members: Brian Thornburg Greg Runnebaum Jimmy Mullins Tim Griffiths City Administrator: Matt Shaffstall Interim City Secretaries: Josh Armstrong Candy Scott CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Willow Park’s Demonstration Garden was established as both an aesthetic and educational resource to show how drought-tolerant plants can be used locally for landscaping.

schools districts. About twothirds of the city is in the Aledo ISD, and the remaining third is in Weatherford ISD.

The annual ParkFest each fall draws large numbers of area residents to celebrate the city’s Demonstration Garden at the Willow Park Fire Department.

City Hall: 516 Ranch House Road, Willow Park, TX 76087 Monthly Council Meeting: 7 p.m. second Tuesday of every month, Willow Park Municipal Complex, 516 Ranch House Road, Willow Park, Texas 76087 City Website: www.willowpark.org

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Spotlight on... A

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The Community News

t the center of Center of Hope is a petite blonde with a heart as big as Texas. “For more than 10 years, the Christ-centered ministry has been helping others break the cycle of poverty in Parker County,” said Chief Executive Officer Paula Robinson. By the numbers, 12,664 people in Parker County are living at the poverty level, Robinson said. Thirty-five percent of the people receiving groceries at the Center are children under 18. Fortythree percent of Weatherford Independent School District students are enrolled in federally assisted meal programs. “Our programs are varied and vast. We cover all of Parker County and the Aledo ISD. Assistance is not so much based on income levels but based on needs. Health crisis or job loss can be devastating to some families,” Robinson said. In addition to crisis assistance, the Center offers Help for Today which provides groceries, hot meals, career and education, Hope for Tomorrow offers Jobs for Life, adult basic education, computer classes that allows students to gain college credit through a partnership with Weatherford

The Community News

Center of Hope

College; financial management and leadership development. The Center recently opened The Hope Chest, Weatherford’s newest upscale resale shop, according to Staci Markwardt, media director. “The Hope Chest will sell gently used and well-cared for clothing, accessories, furniture, home décor items and more,” said Markwardt. It is open to the community and is located at 1020 Fort Worth Street. It is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Additionally, the shop will provide six-month paid internships to students who have participated in the Education and Career Development program. Camp Hope reaches children and their families throughout summer with basic cooking lessons, Bible stories, groceries and more. And Robinson is looking to the future with other programs in mind. “We’re about to start a financial class in Aledo and Moms with Hope is happening in Aledo also. It’s basically for single moms and offers counseling and how to be a better parent.” Center of Hope is primarily funded by churches, individuals, businesses and foundation grants, Robinson said. Ninetytwo percent of every gift goes to programs helping children

GALE BRADFORD/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

When families have difficulty providing for themselves, their pets suffer as well. Jackie French, who owns Le Chateau K-9 in Willow Park, collects pet food from contributors and delivers it each week to the Center of Hope. Keep Them Home Pet Food Pantry is operated by French (left), shown with Center of Hope, Aledo, volunteers Mary Ellen Mitts and Mary Johnson.

and families living in Parker County. Donations may be made online: www.centerofhopetx. com, by mail: Center of Hope, P.O. Box 190, Weatherford, TX 76086 or in person at 629 Palo Pinto, Weatherford. Volunteers are always welcome, Robinson said. Last year, volunteers worked 32,794 hours in various roles around

Your Parker County

the Center. Some serve one hour and some serve every day but each one plays a vital role. The Center of Hope has two locations. Director of the 629 Palo Pinto St. facility in Weatherford is Jerry Buchanan. Elizabeth Slaughter heads up the 9901 East Bankhead Highway location in Aledo.

2014-2015 31

Down Bankhead

Nation’s first all-weather transcontinental highway bisected Parker County

By Phil Major

The Community News

hosts one of the longest segments in the state – if not the nation – still known by its original name.

otorists zipping along Interstate 20 through Parker County enjoy the modern convenience of a divided, high-speed, multi-lane highway. But a century ago that 20-minute drive across the county might have taken hours – with roads nearly impassable during inclement weather. Those “roads” weren’t much more than trails used primarily by horses and animal-drawn conveyances. But the introduction of mass-produced automobiles by Mr. Ford in Detroit heralded a new era of travel in the early 1900s. Thus was born the movement that led to better roads. One such movement resulted in the nation’s first year-round transcontinental highway. And it bisected Parker County. The area played a prominent role in the history of the Bankhead Highway. And today it

But until recently most of that history was stored away, in government and newspaper archives, family albums and collections. Dan Smith of Fort Worth, retired meteorologist with the National Weather Service, was biking through Parker County several years ago when he came across a segment of the old highway. That led to a fascination with one of the great American highways which has resulted in a book, numerous speaking engagements, a Facebook page, a segment on “Texas Country Reporter” and more. Most of the original Bankhead route still exists in Parker County, either paved over by newer materials, or abandoned and returned to private property. It can be seen on aerial maps or through fence gates, and much of it can still be driven. Smith’s book, “Texas Highway No. 1, The Bankhead Highway in Texas,” gives a detailed history of the move to build better roads – roads that went somewhere and

were passable after it rained. It’s also a tour guide for those wanting to recreate the old route. In it he tells that the so-called good roads associations actually sprang up in the late 1800s following the growing popularity of bicycles. Then with the advent of the Model T Ford, the push became stronger. Sen. John Bankhead of Alabama pushed through the first federal highway bill, dubbed the Bankhead bill, in 1916 that called for 50 percent participation with federal dollars to the states.

becoming I-10 all the way to El Paso. Texas claimed nearly a third of the Bankhead’s full length – almost 1,000 miles.

But the roads had to “go somewhere,” with the purpose of creating a connecting system of highways for long-distance travel.

In places the interstates closely follow the old routes, while in others the variations are substantial.

The Bankhead route began in Washington, D.C., swung southwest to Atlanta, Ga., traversed the south through Birmingham, Ala., turned a little north into Memphis, Tenn., then across Arkansas through Little Rock, entering Texas at Texarkana. It exited the state at El Paso and terminated in San Diego, Calif.

Smith’s book delves into the politics involved that finally settled on the route, and the work of the pathfinders who fanned out across the country in search of possible alternatives.

It followed a route across Texas now traversed roughly by I-30 into the Dallas area, then west along what is now I-20/30,

The first route going west from Fort Worth actually headed to the southwest through Benbrook, then west to Aledo and along the Old Annetta Road. It eventually connected with what is still known as the Bankhead at Center Point Rd. Turn to BANKHEAD, page 34

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But Weatherford businessman H.W. Kuteman had other ideas. An early auto enthusiast, he wanted a shorter route into Fort Worth. It was eventually built and became known as Kuteman’s Cutoff. The landmark silos north of Aledo mark where Kuteman’s Cutoff literally cut off Aledo and Annetta. Smith says other Bankhead enthusiasts think the cutoff extends only from north of Aledo to where it connects with West Camp Bowie in Tarrant County. But Smith’s research leads him to believe the Center Point location farther to the west is accurate, based on the number of miles the cutoff was reported to have saved motorists. After the Bankhead passes the Parker County courthouse in Weatherford and heads west, another major change in the route occurred. The original Bankhead dipped a little to the south, through Millsap, and then back to the north into Mineral Wells. But the need for a good road into the oil fields around Ranger led the state highway department to reroute what

by then was called U.S. 80 southwest out of Weatherford, with another new road connecting Weatherford and Mineral Wells (later U.S. 180) – bypassing Millsap on both sides, opened in 1938. West of Millsap, as the Bankhead approaches Mineral Wells, is ample evidence of the circuitous route often followed by the early highway. The road – on the map –looks more like stair steps as it goes west, then north, then west, then north – no doubt following property lines, Smith reasons. Eventually a straight road was cut through. The Millsap area holds another interesting piece of Bankhead history. It seems that relatives of Sen. Bankhead migrated to the west Parker County area in the 1880s and became well-known – one a doctor and another a druggist. Indeed the old Bankhead home still stands south of Millsap, with plans to move the 1800s structure into town for preservation.

Then Smith said more than once he ran into folks who assumed the highway was named for the locals – not a U.S. senator from Alabama.

ability to move military convoys across large distances.

And just out of Millsap, in Palo Pinto County, Mineral Wells also played a prominent role in the development of the Bankhead in Texas.

To help mark the anniversary of the birth of the Bankhead, a cross-country convoy featuring historic military vehicles will again traverse Parker County in the late summer of 2015. It will be put on by the Military Vehicle Preservation Association, and may stop overnight in Fort Worth and Mineral Wells.

Two important conventions were hosted in the city, which at the time was a popular resort. The first in 1917 essentially earmarked the future route of the Bankhead in Texas, known as Texas Highway 1.

Tentative schedule has the group passing through Parker County Oct. 6, 2015.

By the time the Bankhead association gathered there in 1919, its path was a foregone conclusion. Smith wonders if the senator, who attended the meeting as the association president, would have visited with his relatives, just a few miles away. Smith has been unable to find evidence linking the locals to their Alabama kin. As the early roads developed, their importance militarily had been heightened through the country’s participation in World War One in Europe.

PHIL MAJOR/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Closed portion of Bankhead Highway in east Parker County. 34 2014-2015

The first transcontinental highway – the Lincoln – was first used to demonstrate the

Your Parker County

Soon a similar convoy was planned for the Bankhead in 1920.

No doubt it will not face the daunting task of the first, which encountered unseasonable summer rains and took 34 days to cross Texas on mostly dirt roads, often having to shore up inadequate bridges. They will avoid the interstate wherever possible and utilize original stretches of the Bankhead. Once construction is completed on FM 1187 north of Aledo, the Bankhead will be complete from there into Weatherford, except for a stretch in southeast Willow Park where a bridge over the Clear Fork of the Trinity ( just south of I-20) was abandoned

www.yourparkercounty.com

that appear to have been planted during beautification efforts near the Texas Pythian Home. The Rotary Park near downtown served as a free camping park for travelers when it opened on the south side of the highway in 1922. One tell-tale sign that travclers are on the old Bankhead route is the old concrete bridges and culverts that are still part of the old road bed, some dating from the earliest days of the Bankhead in the ‘20s.

Now by the county in the 1970s and reverted to private ownership. The route now takes a quick jog up to the south I-20 service road. West of Weatherford the Bankhead is now called Old

Millsap Road, and east of that community sits a private home that was a service station along the Bankhead in the 1920s. Smith says there are few signs of the old highway in Weatherford, except for trees

Heading a little father west, parts of the Bankhead paved with Thurber brick are still in use as local roads.

Broadway street or avenue. Then the federal government added a numbering system for U.S. highways, and the Bankhead name fell out of use, except for those small stretches that retain it – like the one in Parker County. Smith’s book is available through Amazon, and updates are posted regularly to the Texas Bankhead Highway History Group Facebook page. The state highway department and historical commission have embarked on a twoyear project to document the Bankhead. The commission’s website includes the results of the historical survey and other information about the Bankhead in Texas.

Promoters eventually got the Bankhead relabeled as the Broadway of America, and in some towns the route is named

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2014-2015 35

County Government COUNTYWIDE OFFICIALS Curtis Jenkins* Mark Riley County Judge One Courthouse Sq. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6148 Fax: 817-598-6199 Judge.riley@parkercountytx.com John Forrest County Attorney 118 West Columbia St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-8409 Fax: 817-594-8414 John.forrest@parkercountytx.com Judge Jerry Buckner County Court at Law 1 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6179 Fax: 817-598-6119 Judge.buckner@parkercountytx.com

County Court at Law 2 *Appointed following the death of Ben Akers. Subject to election in November, 2014. One Courthouse Sq. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6195 Fax: 817-598-6164 Jeane Brunson County Clerk 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherfod, Texas 76086 Deeds and Records: 817-594-7461 Fax: 817-594-9540 Jeane.brunson@parkercountytx.com Civil & Criminal 1: 817-598-6059 Civil & Criminal 2: 817-598-6035 Court Documents: 817-598-6056 Larry Fowler Sheriff 129 Hogle St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-8845

Fax: 817-594-7809 Larry.fowler@parkercountytx.com Marjorie King Tax Assessor-Collector 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6139 Fax: 817-598-6133 Marjorie.king@parkercountytx.com Jenny Barnwell Treasurer 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6150 Fax: 817-598-6180 Jim.thorp@parkercountytx.com Mike Rhoten County Auditor 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6104 Fax: 817-598-6181 Mike.rhoten@parkercountytx.com

Don Markum Elections Administrator 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6185 Fax: 817-598-6183 don.markum@parkercountytx.com Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation District 1250 E. Hwy 199 P.O. Box 1749 Springtown Texas 76082 817-523-5200 Toll Free: 877-388-8423 www.uppertrinitygcd.com

JUDICIARY

Craig Towson 43rd District Court Judge 117 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6069 Fax: 817-598-6108 jolene.duboise@parkercountytx.com

Parker County web site: www.co.parker.tx.us

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Graham Quisenberry 415th District Court Judge 117 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6162 Fax: 817-598-6161 dawn.ryle@parkercountytx.com

Wayne Hayes Justice of the Peace 1020 East Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-5857 Fax: 817-220-2000 Judge.hayes@parkercountytx.com

Sharena Gilliland District Clerk 117 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 (Civil) 817-598-6114 (Felony) 817-598-6194 Fax: 817-598-6131

Larry Nix Constable 1020 East Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-0027 Larry,nix@parkercountytx.com

Don Schnebly District Attorney 117 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6124 Fax: 817-599-7628 da@parkercountytx.com

PRECINCT 1 George Conley Commissioner 3000 Veal Station Road / P.O. Box 681 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-7218 Fax: 817-220-7220 George.conley@parkercountytx.com

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PRECINCT 2 Craig Peacock Commissioner 3033 FM 1885 Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-594-4022 Fax: 817-599-0076 craig.peacock@parkercountytx.com Kelly Green Justice of the Peace 207 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-0496

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2014-2015 37

PRECINCT 3

Larry Walden Commissioner 1111 FM 1189 Brock, Texas 76087 817-594-0371 Fax: 817-594-4496 larry.walden@parkercountytx.com Suzie Merkley* Justice of the Peace 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6192 Fax: 817-598-6112 Judge.merkley@parkercountytx.com *Dusty Vinson taking office as Justice of the Peace, Pct. 3 in January 2015 Glen Praytor Constable 1112 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6117 Glen.praytor@parkercountytx.com

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PRECINCT 4

Joe Harris, Jr. Constable 207 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 682-229-2167 joe.harris@parkercountytx.com

Dusty Renfro* Commissioner 1320 Airport Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-596-0004 817-596-5016 dusty.renfro@parkercountytx.com * Steve Dugan taking office as Pct. 4 Commissioner in January, 2015 Lynn Johnson Justice of the Peace 5189 East I-20 Service Road North, Suite 109 Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-1071 Fax: 817-441-4170 lynn.johnson@parkercountytx.com Scott Jones Constable 5189 East I-20 Service Road North, Suite 109 Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-9396 scott.jones@parkercountytx.com

LAW ENFORCEMENT Aledo ISD Police Department Chawn Gilliland (Chief) 817-441-5147 117 Vernon Road Aledo, Texas 76008 Hudson Oaks Police Department Brandon Mayberry (Chief) 682-229-2400 150 N. Oakridge Drive, Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 Parker County Sheriff’s Department Larry Fowler (Sheriff) 817-594-8845 129 Hogle St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 Reno Police Department Joe Poline (Chief) 817-221-2500 195 W. Reno Rd., Azle, TX 76020

Springtown Police Department Ed Crowdis (Chief) 817-220-1534 220 Hilltop, Springtown, Texas 76082 Weatherford Police Department Mike Manning (Chief) 817-598-4310 801 Santa Fe Drive, Weatherford, Texas 76086 Willow Park Police Department Brad Johnson (Chief) 817-441-9747 101 W. Stage Coach Trail, Willow Park, Texas 76087

ANIMAL CONTROL Weatherford/Parker County Animal Shelter 817-598-4111 403 Hickory Lane, Weatherford, Texas 76086

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Serving every family as if you are a part of our Own Telephone: 817-594-2747 Toll Free: 800-593-2747

Your Parker County

Fax: 817-596-7803 Metro: 817-596-2802 www.yourparkercounty.com

ty FIRE DEPARTMENTS Cool-Garner 2290 Garner School Rd. Weatherford 76088 firechief@coolgarnervfd.org assistantchief@coolgarnervfd.org captain@coolgarnaervfd.org lieutenant#coolgarnervfd.org Rodney Robertson Poolville P.O. Box 277 16140 FM 1920 Poolville TX 76487 poolvillevfd@yahoo.com Jeff Hicks 817-598-4310 Willow Park 101 Stagecoach Trail Willow Park 76087 bps6704@gmail.com jjustice@willowpark.org Brent Sauble 817-441-8020 Weatherford jingram@pceds1.com Paul Rust ST1-817-598-4280 ST2-817-598-4014 ST3-817-598-4112 ST4-817-598-4180

EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICTS ESD 1 ESD 1 Administration P.O. Box 323 315 Morrow Rd. Springtown, TX 76082 swatson@pcesd1.com Stephen Watson , District Fire Chief Lis Giles , Administrative Manager 817-523-7598 Aledo P.O. Box 100 ST1-215 Mesquite St. Aledo, 76008 ST2- 6085 White Settlement Rd. mleondar@pcesd1.com Morris Leondar 817-441-7284 Springtown P.O. Box 282 Springtown 76082 ST1-215 Goshen Rd. ST2-3004 HWY 199 W boverholt@pcesd1.com Ben Overholt, Deputy Chief 817-523-0257

The Community News

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Jared Junker and Charlie Schneider practice with equipment as part of regular qualification tests for Willow Park Fire/Rescue. LaJunta P.O. Box 1891 ST1-4480 E. Hwy 199 Springtown 76082 tscarlato@pcesd1.com Tony Scarlato, Deputy Chief 817-677-2290 Peaster P.O. Box 6 Peaster 76485 peasterfireandresuce@uwmail.com peaster_fire_rescue@hotmail.com leo.scott@muellerinc.com Leo Scott, Deputy Chief 817-594-4551 Silver Creek 6901 S. FM 730 Azle 76020 jingram@pceds1.com Jason Ingram, Deputy Chief 817-444-1196

George Teague 817-594-5500

ESD 8

Spring Creek 6300 Granbury Hwy, Weatherford, TX 76087 gbteague44@aol.com djs0236@yahoo.com George Teague (817) 594-5500

ST1-4100 Old Agnes Rd. Weatherford 76088 ST2-3641 FM 51 N dcff55@aol.com gstone@mypbmail.com David Chilcutt ST1-817-599-0818 ST2- 817-599-0881

Cresson P.O. Box 42 Cresson 76035 ST1-105 Crook ST. cjhuff@windstream.net sossob@windstream.net Joe Huffman 817-396-4448

ESD 7

ESD3

ESD 7 Administration 817-594-9473

ESD 3 Administration penglish@esd3.org Pat English (817) 599-0576

Greenwood 1418 Greenwood Cut-off Rd. Weatherford 76088 ltgumby226@yahoo.com Michael Ellis, Chief 817-594-9473

Hudson Oaks 150 N. Oakridge Dr. Hudson Oaks hudsonoaksfire@yahoo.com penglish@esd3.org Pat English (817) 599-0576

ESD 6

ESD 6 Administration gbteague44@aol.com

Millsap P.O. Box 172 Millsap, TX 76066 ST1-407 S. Houston ST. neal_doss@yahoo.com je4201@gmail.com Neal Doss 817-682-4390

Your Parker County

Central

Adell-Whitt P.O. Box 72 4312 N. FM 52 Whitt, 76490 awfd4537@yahoo.com davidphillips4536@yahoo.com David Phillips 940-798-3055

ESD 9 Brock-Dennis 1107 FM 1189 Brock, TX 76087 ST1-1107 FM 1189 Brock 76087 ST2-2506 Dennis Rd. Country Place ST3-8400 FM 1189 Dennis 76066 jacknx2000@yahoo.com brockdennisvfd@yahoo.com travisscrimshire@yahoo.com tepritchard1007@yahoo.com Travis Scrimshire (817) 341-7368

2014-2015 39

Education

Pre-K to College

Pool, Spa, Outdoor Kitchen & Pergola, Fences, and Pool House Construction Pool/Spa Renovations or Remodels, Pool Chemicals Sold Here

Fax: 817-441-1975 817-366-9974

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ALEDO ISD Administration Derek Citty, Superintendent 1008 Bailey Ranch Road - Aledo 817-441-8327 aledo.schoolfusion.us The Aledo ISD School Board meets on the third Monday of the month unless otherwise announced. Coder Elementary School Principal Amy Sadler 12 Vernon Road, Aledo, Texas, 76008 817-441-6095 Grades: Pre-K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Pick up/drop off: In the front drive of the school; buses pick up/drop off on the South side. Other information: Coder is home to the district’s only pre-kindergarten program. Stuard Elementary School Principal Ron Shelton 200 Thunderhead Lane, Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-5103 Grades: K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

JEFFREY HARRISON, D.V.M. SHELLEY FINGER, D.V.M. MARIAH COAKLEY, D.V.M.

Pick up/drop off: In back of the school. Buses will pick up/drop off in the front. Vandagriff Elementary School Principal Stephanie Adams 408 FM 1187 South, Aledo, Texas, 76008 817-441-8771 Grades: K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Pick up/drop off: In front of the school. Buses will pick up/drop off in the back. Other information: The school motto is “Join us in a celebration of life and learning.” McCall Elementary School Principal Jason Beaty 400 Scenic Trail, Willow Park, Texas, 76087 817-441-4500 Grades: K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Pick up/drop off: Grades K through 1 pick up in the back. Grades 2 through 5 pick up in the front. All drop offs are in the front of the school. Buses will pick up and drop off on the east side of campus.

McAnally Intermediate School Principal Bob Harmon 151 FM 5 South, Aledo, Texas, 76008 817-441-8347 Grade: 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8:40 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. Pick up/drop off: North entrance (off FM 1187). Bus pickup and drop off is at the south entrance. No pick up and drop off at the front (west) entrance (off FM 5). Aledo Middle School Principal Cheryl Jones

416 FM 1187 South, Aledo, Texas, 76008 817-441-5198 Grades: 7 and 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8:40 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. Pick Up/Drop Off: Buses pick up and drop off on the south side of the school, and parents pick up and drop off on the north side of the school. Other information: Programs such as Whiz Quiz, drama club and band are offered here.

DARRYL MCENDREE, D.V.M. RANDY DORAN, D.V.M. JOHN BEACH, D.V.M.

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICES SURGERY • DENTISTRY • BOARDING PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS & DIETS 817-441-9361 • Fax 817-546-1919 P.O. Box 6 • 5188 E. I-20 Service Road South Aledo, Texas 76008

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2014-2015 41

Don Daniel Ninth Grade Center Principal Angie Tims 990 Bailey Ranch Road, Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-4504 Grade: 9 Start/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pick up/Drop off: At the front of the school. The Learning Center Principal Ron Miller 1016 Bailey Ranch Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-5176

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Garner student Emma Haskel and principal Steve Wallace.

Aledo High School Principal Dan Peterson 1000 Bailey Ranch Road, Aledo, Texas, 76008 817-441-8711 Grades: 10 through 12 Starting/Closing Times: 8:40 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. Parking Permits: Parking permits on the first day of school. Other information: Elective courses currently offered include music theory, art, theatre production, Cold War studies and many others. Several Advanced Placement and PreAdvanced placement classes are also available. Extracurricular activities include National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, International Club, Student Council, Modern Music Masters, Future Business Leaders of America, the Aledo Players Drama Club and athletics.

BROCK ISD Administration Superintendent Richard Tedder 410 Eagle Spirit Lane - Brock 817-594-7642 www.brockisd.net The Brock ISD School Board meets on the second Monday of the month. Brock Elementary School Principal DeeAnn Mills 100 Grindstone Road, Brock, Texas, 76087 817-594-8017, Metro: 817-596-8372 Grades: Pre-K-5 Starting/Closing Times: 7:55 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. Other Information: Brock Elementary School is a TEA Recognized School. Brock Junior High School Principal Chad Massey 300 Grindstone Road, Brock, Texas, 76087 817-594-3195, Metro: 817-596-2916 Grades: 6-8 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. Brock High School Principal Rick Howell 400 Eagle Spirit Lane, Brock, Texas, 76087 817-596-7425 Grades: 9-12

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Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Other Information: Brock High School is a TEA Recognized School. Students can earn up to 25 hours of college credit with dual enrollment courses before graduation.

GARNER ISD Superintendent Marion Ferguson Principal Steven Wallace 2222 Garner School Road, Weatherford, Texas 76088 940-682-4251 Grades: PreK-8 Starting/Closing Times: 8 to 3:45 Other Information: 8th grade graduates from Garner may transfer to the high school of their choosing. Millsap ISD has an agreement with Garner ISD that incoming 9th graders to Millsap High School from Garner are welcomed.

The Garner ISD School Board meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. in the school library.

MILLSAP ISD Administration Superintendent David Belding

201 East Brazos St. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Millsap 940-682-3101 Call Tree 940-682-3100 www.millsapisd.net Millsap ISD School Board meets on the fourth Monday of the month. Millsap Elementary School Principal Kathy Bradshaw 101 Wilson Bend Rd., Millsap, Texas 76066 940-682-3121 Grades: EC-5 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (After school program until 5:30 p.m.)

PEASTER ISD Administration

Superintendent Matt Adams 3602 Harwell Lake Road â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Weatherford 817-341-5000 ext. 1 www.peaster.net The Peaster ISD School Board meets on the third Thursday of the month.

Peaster Elementary School

Principal Jonathan Scott 3400 Harwell Lake Road, Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-594-1884 Grades: Pre-K- 5 Starting/Closing Times: 8:05 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Other information: The elementary school has a pre-kindergarten program, an early childhood program for

Millsap Middle School Principal Jeff Clark 301 East Brazos St., Millsap, Texas, 76066 940-682-3161 Grades: 6-8 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Millsap High School Principal Tammy Addison 600 Bulldog Boulevard, Millsap, Texas 76066 940-682-3182 Grades: 9-12 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.

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1207 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 Phone: 817-596-9301 Fax: 817-596 9304 www.sgwcpas.com

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Your Parker County

2014-2015 43

children with disabilities, and kindergarten through grade 5 programs. The average class size in grades kindergarten through grade 5 is 18 students. In addition, the elementary school has a gifted and talented (GT) program, a special education program, a Title 1 program and English as a Second Language (ESL) program. Peaster Middle School

Principal Darren Grudt 8512 FM 920, Peaster, Texas 76485 817-341-5000 ext. 3 Grades: 6 through 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. Other information: Extra-curricular activities include: sports: volleyball, basketball, track and tennis; fine arts: band, theater arts, art and choral music. Students participate in academic contests and are encouraged to be involved in community-sponsored activities to become well-rounded citizens. Peaster High School

Principal Darla Henry 3600 Harwell Lake Road, Peaster, Texas 76485 817-341-5000 ext. 2 Grades: 9 through 12 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. Other information: A number of honors and Advanced Placement courses are available for college-bound students and additional programs are being added as needed. Extra-curricular activities include: sports: volleyball, cross-country, basketball, track, tennis, golf, baseball, and softball; fine arts: band, theater arts, art and choral music; organizations: FCCLA, FFA, NHS, student council, computer club and others.

Sunday Bible Class Sunday Worship Sunday Evening Wednesday

POOLVILLE ISD Administration

Superintendent Jimmie Dobbs 16025 FM 920 – Poolville 817-594-4452 www.poolville.net The Poolville ISD School Board meets the second Thursday of the month. Poolville Elementary School

Principal Kathy Pierce 16025 FM 920, Poolville, Texas 76487 817-599-3308 Grades: Pre-K through 5 Starting/Closing Times: 8:05 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. Other information: The elementary school offers programs in math/science and accelerated reader. It holds morning enrichment and tutoring before school at 7:30 to 8 a.m. and will host family reading nights. School Motto: “Paw Power.” Poolville Junior High

Principal Matt Scott 16025 FM 920, Poolville, Texas 76487 817-594-4539 Grades: 6 through 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. Poolville High School

Principal Shari John 1001 Lone Star Road, Poolville, Texas 76487 817-599-5134 Grades: 9 through 12 Starting/Closing Times: 8:05 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Other information: PHS offers a dual credit program, an ag science program, and an athletic program that advanced to the playoffs in all sports.

9:30am 10:30am 5:00pm 7:00pm

SPRINGTOWN ISD

Springtown Middle School

Principal Mark Wilson 500 Pojo Drive, Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-7455 Grades: 7 and 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8:00 a.m. – 3:20 p.m.

Administration

Superintendent Mike Kelley 301 East 5th St. – Springtown Phone: 817-220-7243 Fax: 817-523-5766 www.springtownisd.net The Springtown ISD School Board meets on the fourth Monday of the month.

Springtown High School

Reno Elementary School

Principal Traunsa Reeves 172 W. Reno Road, Azle, Texas 76020 817-221-5001 Grades: Pre K through 4 Starting/Closing Times: 7:50 a.m. – 3:05 p.m. Goshen Creek Elementary School

Principal Wes Thomas 401 S. Pojo Drive, Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-0272 Grades: Pre-K through 4 Starting/Closing times: 7:50 a.m. – 3:05 p.m. Springtown Elementary School

Principal Pearl Russell 416 E. Third St., Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-2498 Grades: Pre-K through 4 Starting/Closing Times: 7:50 a.m. – 3:05 p.m. Springtown Intermediate School

Principal Joe Brown 300 Pojo Drive, Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-1219 Grades: 5 and 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Principal Chris Pennington 915 W. Hwy 199, Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-3888 Grades: 9 through 12 Starting/Closing Times: 8:10 a.m. – 3:25 p.m.

WEATHERFORD ISD Administration

Superintendent Dr. Jeffery Hanks 1100 Longhorn Drive – Weatherford www.weatherfordisd.com Phone: 817-598-2800 Fax: 817-598-2955 The Weatherford ISD School Board meets on the second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. Austin Elementary School

Principal Jenny Morris 1776 Texas Drive, Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-2848 Grades: K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Other information: Activities available through this school include geography/ spelling bees, student leadership team, Young Authors Expo, band and choir. In addition to these, there is a “Quest” gifted and talented program. The “Kids Unite” after-school program is also available here.

201 FM 1187 Aledo, TX 76008 817-441-8074

www.aledochurchofchrist.com 44 2014-2015

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Crockett Elementary School

Principal Jessica Robert 1015 Jameson St., Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-598-2811 Grades: Pre-K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Pre-K goes from 7:70 to 11 a.m. and 12:15 to 3:15 p.m. Other information: The “Kids Unite” after-school program is available here. Crockett school colors are green and white, and the school mascot is the lion cub. Curtis Elementary School

Principal Racheal Rife 501 W. Russell, Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-598-2838 Grades: K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Other information: In addition to UIL, band and choir, Curtis also offers an “exemplary” reading buddy program, a peer mediator group and a Succeeding at Reading program. Ikard Elementary School

Principal Christy Burton 100 Ikard Lane, Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-598-2818 Grades: Pre-K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Martin Elementary School

Principal Lori Box 719 N. Oakridge Drive, Weatherford, Texas, 76087 817-598-2910 Grades: K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Other information: The “Quest” gifted and talented program is offered at this

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Weatherford ISD Ninth Grade Center.

campus as well as the “Kids Unite” after-school program. Geography/ spelling bees and sixth grade band are also available. Seguin Elementary School

Principal Andy Pool 499 E. Eighth St., Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-598-2814 Grades: Pre-K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Pre-K goes from 8 to 11 a.m. and 12:15 to 3:15 p.m. Other information: A bilingual Pre-K through sixth grade program is also available at Seguin. Wright Elementary School

Principal Joy Bailey

1309 W. Charles St., Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-598-2828 Grades: Pre-K through 6 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Pre-K goes from 8 to 11 a.m. and 12:15 to 3:15 p.m. Other information: The “Quest” and “Kids Unite” programs are offered here as well as a bilingual Pre-K through fifth grade program. Hall Middle School

Principal Debbie Braudaway 902 Charles St., Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-598-2822 Grades: 7 and 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8:00 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Other information: Activits/Programs include student council, poetry, drama clubs, a teen leadership group and the Hall Highsteppers Dance Team. Pre-AP classes are also offered here. Tison Middle School

Principal Carrie Harrison 102 Meadowview Road, Weatherford, Texas, 76087 817-598-2960 Grades: 7 and 8 Starting/Closing Times: 8 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. WHS Ninth Grade Center

Associate Principal Kristy Dowd 1007 S. Main, Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-598-2847 Grade: 9

Robert Casey Stroud, D.D.S., P.C. and Associates Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry Diplomate of American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Fellow of American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry 134 El Chico Trail, Suite 101 Aledo/Willow Park, TX 76087 Ofc: 817.441.2425 • Fax: 817.441.2491 www.brushﬂosswin.com The Community News

Your Parker County

2014-2015 45

Starting/Closing Times: 8:15 a.m. 3:45 p.m. Other information: Students can participate in elective such as cosmetology, auto tech., tech systems, art, agriculture, speech, yearbook, JV Jazz or “Blue Belles.” Weatherford High School

Principal Lynn Pool 2121 Bethel Road, Weatherford, Texas, 76087 817-598-2858 Grades: 10 through 12 Starting/Closing Times: 8:15 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. Other information: Organizations include FFA, FCA, Art Honor Society, the “Blue Belles,” the “Grass Burr” newspaper, the American Sign Language Club, Chamber of Commerce Junior Ambassadors and more.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Aledo Christian School P.O. Box 117, Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-7357 Grades: Pre-K through 12 Online School www.aledochristianschool.com All Saints Episcopal School 9700 Saints Circle, Fort Worth, Texas 76108 817-560-5700 Grades: Pre-K age 3 through 12 www.asesftw.org Anderson Private School 14900 White Settlement Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76108 817-448-8484 www.andersonschool.net Grades: K through 12 For the gifted, talented and creative

Couts Christian Academy 802 North Elm, Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-8601 coutschristianacademy.org Grades: Pre-K through 7 Trinity Christian Academy 4954 East I-20 Service Road South, Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-7901 www.tcaeagles.org Grades: Pre-K through 12 With a curriculum that works to balance ministry, athleticism and academics, TCA serves students from western Fort Worth, Weatherford, Aledo and eastern Parker County. Victory Baptist Academy 1311 East Bankhead Drive, Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-2711 Grades: Pre-K through 12 Weatherford Christian School Elementary Campus 111 East Columbia St., Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-596-7807 Grades: Pre-K through 3 Secondary Campus 2300 Ranger Hwy., Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-341-0000 Grades: 4 through 12 www.wcslions.org Grades: Pre-K through 12 WCS provides an accelerated educational curriculum, and all students at the school are required to attend chapel. Teachers have requisite certification.

PRE-SCHOOLS AND CHILD CARE Acorn Acres Childcare Located at Oak Ridge Church of Christ, 4895 East I-20 Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-1875 Fax: 817-441-2181 www.oakridgechurch.org Aledo Country Day Academy 117 Crockett St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8935 Fax: 817-441-8551 www.aledocountryday.com Torre Holbrooks, Director/owner

All About Kids Childcare and Learning Center 1441 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-1330 Fax: 817-341-1605 www.allaboutkidstx.com

Brock Country Day 741 FM 1189 Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-613-8844 www.brockcountryday.org Children’s Academy 936 East Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-8030

Head Start/ Texas Neighborhood Services - (Need-based childcare and education for children whose parents are employed or in school) 602 West Water St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-1289 Fax: 817-598-0232 Heart 2 Heart Montessori Academy 201 Canyon Court Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-7201 www.heart2heartmontessori.com

Aledo United Methodist Church Preschool P.O. Box 126, Oak Street and Pecan Drive Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8329, ext. 17 www.aledoumc.org

Brock Christian Learning Center 2111 FM 1189 Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-5223 www.brockclc.com Angela Johnson, Director

Faith Academy Cowboy Church Ministries 4000 West I-20 Weatherford, Texas 76008 817-599-5963 Faith Presbyterian Day School 301 Bailey Ranch Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6262

Hope Lutheran School 4795 East Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-221-4673 www.hopelutheranspringtown.com Kalyn’s Country Day Learning Center 2008 North FM 51 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-9596 www.kalynscountryday.net Kalyn’s Country Day Learning Center 1921 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-9990 www.kalynscountryday.net Lil’ Cats Preschool 128 Elm St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8885 Fax: 817-441-9007 www.crossingaledo.com Gaye Lowe, Director

GROWING Socially EXCELLING Academically 817.441.6060

10303 E. Bankhead Hwy. Aledo, Texas 76008 46 2014-2015

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Little Miracles 117 Ranch House Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-6285 Fax: 817-441-1791 www.ltmiracles.com Little Tyke Creative Childcare 1718 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-7556 www.littletykechildcare.com North Side Christian Preschool 910 North Main St. Weatherford, Texas, 76086 817-596-9808 www.nsbcweatherford.com Reading Friends 10303 East Bankhead Hwy. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6060 www.readingfriends.org Ages: 2 through 6, Premier Reading Program

South Bowie Daycare 1718 South Bowie Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-0655 www.southbowiedaycare.com South Oak Learning Center 113 West J.E. Woody Road Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-2424 Sprouts Learning Center 5073 I-20 Service Road North Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-1906 www.sproutslearningcenter.net The Academy Private School & Day Care 1200 S Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-0722 Ages: 6 months through K, Kathy Peck, Director/owner The Schoolhouse, Inc. 1116 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-8444 www.weatherfordschoolhouse.com Ages: 2 through K, Academic Private School, Amy Haydon, Director

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Trinity Christian Academy students enjoy their 2014 field day water race. Whistlestop Preschool Located in Aledo Church of Christ 201 S FM 1187 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6506 www.aledochurchofchrist.com aledocofc@sbcglobal.net Ages: 12 months through Pre-K

The Rees & Piper Team No one is more qualified to help you buy or sell real estate in Parker County.

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2014-2015 47

Beyond High School

w Weatherford

College offers opportunities regionally

By Randy Keck

The Community News

Weatherford College may be well over 100 years of age, but it doesn’t act like it. Embracing the growth in Parker County, the college has undergone a dramatic facelift and has completed significant new facilities in recent years. The latest addition, the Don Allen Health Sciences Building, was opened in 2014. Brent Baker, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, said the new facility houses the college’s allied health programs. 48 2014-2015

“It was a major step forward for us,” Baker said. “It was badly needed. The facilities at Weatherford College are beginning to match the quality of the faculty.”

WC wrapped up its most successful fund raising effort in history in 2013, collecting $2.4 million, surpassing the goal of $2 million. The college also recently opened a softball complex for its now three-year-old softball program. Baker said all the recent facility improvements have been to assist what is already a high-quality faculty. “It’s important to the students and to the employees,” he said. In the fall of 2013 WC set a new record for enrollment with 5,717 students. The two-year college offers open enrollment.

“If you’re willing to improve yourself, we want you here at Weatherford College,” Baker said, adding that WC has not only traditional students out of high school, but also many who have been out of school for a while, and some who decided to come back after trying four-year universities. And many students who want to work in fields such as nursing, computer science or allied health fields will be ready to enter the workforce after completing their programs at WC. “There’s a lot of variety here,” Baker said.

A majority of students (55 percent) attend traditional classroom instruction. Another 25 percent take advantage of WC’s online instruction, and

Your Parker County

20 percent do a combination of the two.

As a regional college, WC also has campuses in Mineral Wells and Decatur, and recently added facilities in Granbury. As the newest campus, Granbury is also the fastest-growing. In addition, Weatherford College also has land adjacent to land for Aledo’s second high school (when the time comes). Down the road, the adjacent campuses will provide additional opportunities for dual-credit courses. With costs of four-year universities skyrocketing, Weatherford College is a bargain to area students.

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Sports A

By Tony Eierdam

The Community News

s accomplished academically as the school districts are in Parker County, sports in the county also enjoys annual success. Aledo put together state championship runs in football, softball and baseball, and Brock has won five of the past six girls’ state basketball championships. Brock will also play its first full varsity football schedule in 2014 after enjoying a winning record last year during an “outlaw” schedule. Each school in Parker County qualified for the playoffs in more than one sport last year, and this year looks to be another successful year for Parker County schools.

Parker County Style

ALEDO

In the 2014-15 school year, the Aledo teams will play in District 8-5A. After being eliminated in the football playoffs the previous year, the 2013 Aledo Bearcats, winners of District 7-4A, ran the table in the 4A, Division II state playoffs to capture their fourth state championship in five years. In volleyball, the Ladycats won District 7-4A and advanced to the regional semifinals before falling to Amarillo. In girls’ basketball, the Ladycats won District 7-4A, and in the state playoffs defeated Burleson and Trophy Club Byron Nelson before falling to Cleburne in the regional quarterfinals. The Bearcats basketball team qualified for the state playoffs with a fourth-place finish in 7-4A but lost in the opening round of the playoffs to Everman.

In soccer, the Ladycats finished second in district but lost in the opening round of the playoffs, while the Bearcats mirrored the ladies by finishing second in district and also falling in the first round of the playoffs. Aledo flourished in “spring sports” capturing four state championships – two team titles and two individual championships. In track and field, Bearcats jumper Carl Williams won the boys’ state high jump championship. That paced a state meet that saw Aledo twin sisters Brittney and Danielle Trought run on the 400-metter relay team and hurdles, with Brittney qualifying in both the 100- and 300-meter hurdles. The Troughts teamed with Kia Jordan and Peyton Lambert to place sixth at state. Bearcats sprinter Ryan Newsome brought home a silver medal in the 100meter dash. In golf, the Ladycats qualified for the state golf tournament and finished fourth, but

junior Cheyenne Knight shot a 36-hole total of 144, including a 70 on the final day, to win the individual girls’ Class 4A tournament. The Bearcats golf team qualified for the regional tournament and qualified a medalist for state, Logan Lambert. In tennis, the Aledo boys’ doubles team of Ryan Howell and Erik Meendsen advanced to the state tournament, winning their quarterfinals match before falling in the semifinals. In swimming, Jarrah Schlosberg qualified for the state meet in the girls’ 200 IM and 100 Breaststroke; and Meridith Schlosberg qualified for the state meet in the girls’ 100 Butterfly and 100 Backstroke. Aledo closed out the 2013-14 year in championship fashion, winning state championships in softball and baseball. Ladycats second baseman Rhylie Makawe was named the state tournament’s Most Valuable Player,

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2014-2015 49

ANDREA SHUMWAY/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

The Aledo Bearcats take the field at AT&T Stadium for the state championship game against Brenham. with pitcher Lauren Craine, catcher Alli Ramsey, third baseman Riley Sartain, shortstop Allie Arnseson and outfielders Kadyn Kirkpatrick and Haylee Bowden earning all-state-tournament team honors. The Bearcats baseball team began the state playoffs after finishing third in District 7-4A, and unranked. But the Bearcats turned it on in the playoffs to reach the state tournament in Round Rock. Aledo swept all but one series as the Bearcats needed a third game to defeat Wichita Falls. Taco Anderson was selected as the state tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Other Bearcats earning all-state-tournament team honors included catcher Zayne Willems, first baseman Dakota Durant, and outfielders Wade Raburn and Connor Duer.

BROCK

After playing a successful “outlaw” varsity football schedule in 2013 with an outstanding 7-2 record, the Eagles were set to play in their first-ever varsity football district, District 4-3A Division I. In volleyball, the Lady Eagles won District 9-2A before falling in the state semifinals. In girls’ basketball, the Lady Eagles fell one game short of winning their sixth consecutive state championship when they lost to Wall in the state championship game. Earning all-state-tournament team honors from Brock

50 2014-2015

were center Lexi Ducat and guard Rachel Harrell. The Brock Eagles basketball team fell just short of reaching the state basketball tournament. The Eagles finished in second place in District 9-2A but lost a 50-48 heartbreaker to district-foe Ponder – the eventual state champion - in the regional finals. In golf, the boys qualified for the state tournament and finished in a tie for seventh place. In tennis, Clayton Boles qualified for the boys’ state tournament but lost in the quarterfinals. In girls’ tennis, the mixed doubles team of Tyler Davis and Hana Folse won the state tournament. Also, the Lady Eagles doubles team of Tobi Prater and Alex Rubio won their state quarterfinals match before being eliminated in the semifinals. Also in mixed doubles at the state tournament, Brandon Neff and Bailey Nichols fell in the quarterfinals. In golf, the Eagles qualified for the state golf tournament, finishing seventh. Casey Neatherlin was the highest finisher individually, finishing in 29th place. This year Brock plays in District 4-3A in football and 11-3A in basketball, baseball, softball and volleyball.

MILLSAP

Although Millsap got needed travel relief by being placed in District 2-3A Division II, they are in arguably Class 3A’s toughest football district that includes

defending state champion Cisco along with 2013 playoff qualifiers Eastland, Henrietta, Wichita falls City View, Jacksboro and Nocona. The only other team in the new district that did not qualify for the playoffs last year was Holliday, normally a playoff team. In boys’ basketball, Millsap became the only fourth-place team (District 9-2A) in the Class 2A playoffs to win a first-round playoff game. But the surprising Bulldogs did not stop there, defeating Whitewright in the second round before falling to eventual state-champion Ponder in the regional quarterfinals. The Lady Bulldogs basketball team continued to show improvement under legendary coach Ron Berry. Millsap plays in District 11-3A in volleyball, basketball, baseball and softball in 2014-15.

PEASTER

In 2013 in volleyball, Peaster finished fourth in District 9-2A and lost in the opening round of the state playoffs to Godley. In boys’ cross country, David Buchanan qualified for the Class 2A state meet and finished 31st. In boys’ basketball, the Greyhounds finished third in arguably the toughest district in Class 2A, District 9-2A. In the state playoffs, Peaster defeated Godley in the opening round before falling to Whitesboro, 62-60, in the area round. The Lady Hounds basketball team

Your Parker County

did not qualify for the state playoffs. In the 2014-15 school year, Peaster plays in District 11-3A in volleyball, basketball, baseball and softball.

POOLVILLE

In 2013 in volleyball, the Lady Monarchs placed second in District 8-A, but fell in the opening round of the state playoffs to Petrolia. In cross country, the boys qualified for the state meet and finished eighth overall. The top runner was Alex Rodriguez, who finished 29th overall. Other Monarchs qualifying for the state meet were Garrett Darden, Casey McCleery, Alan Tarango, Colby Bobbitt, Jacob Alvarado and Austin Huffman. In boys’ basketball, the Monarchs won District 11-A, Division I. After receiving a bye in the first round of the state playoffs, Poolville defeated Windthorst and Stamford before falling to Muenster in the regional semifinals. In girls’ basketball, the Lady Monarchs placed second in 11-A, DI, defeated Hico in the opening round of the state playoffs but lost to Windthorst in the area round. Beginning this year, Poolville plays in District 9-2A in volleyball; in District 11-2A in basketball; and District 10-2A in baseball.

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2014-2015 51

SPRINGTOWN

In 2013, the Porcupines football team displayed an exciting offense, finishing second in district. But Springtown faced a cruel placement in the bracket. After defeating Wichita Falls Hirschi in the opening round of the state playoffs, the Porcupines fell to eventual state champion Stephenville in the second round. In volleyball, the Lady Porcupines placed second in District 6-3A and reached the regional semifinals before being eliminated in the state playoffs. In girls’ basketball, the Lady Porcupines placed second in 6-3A, defeated Graham in the opening round of the state playoffs but lost to Stephenville in the second round. The boys’ basketball team placed second in 6-3A and defeated Vernon in the first round of the state playoffs. But like the girls, the Porcupines’ season ended with a second-round loss to Stephenville. In soccer, the Porcupines and Lady Porcupines failed to qualify for the state playoffs. In boys’ track, Dillon Springfield qualified for the Class 3A state meet in the 110-meter hurdles and finished fourth. In girls’ track, Savannah Sutton qualified for the 3A state track meet in triple jump, finishing eighth. Beginning this year, Springtown plays in District 5-4A, Division I in football; in District 8-4A in volleyball, basketball, softball and baseball; and District 3-4A in soccer.

WEATHERFORD

The Kangaroos are back in a familiar district, District 4-6A, which includes the Arlington schools along with Fort Worth Paschal and North Crowley. Last year in volleyball, the Lady Roos did not qualify for the state playoffs. In girls’ basketball, the Lady Roos reached the state playoffs for the second year in a row, but were ousted in the first round of the playoffs by Southlake Carroll. In soccer, the Lady Roos finished third in District 3-5A but lost in the opening round of the playoffs. In softball, the Lady Roos finished third in District 3-5A, defeated Keller Timber Creek in the opening round of the state playoffs but

52 2014-2015

fell in the second round to Lubbock Coronado. In baseball, the Kangaroos finished third in District 3-5A but were eliminated from the state playoffs in the first round. Weatherford competes in District 4-6A in all sports beginning this year.

WEATHERFORD COLLEGE

Weatherford College enjoyed another banner year in sports. Below is a wrap-up of all the sports played at WC.

Softball The Weatherford College Coyotes were playing their best softball at season’s end, which has Head Coach Haylee Williams already excited about next season. The Coyotes finished 30-23 overall and reached a third consecutive Region V North Tournament. They went 2-2 in the tournament. “The regional tournament was definitely the high point of the season,” said Williams. Seven members of the Coyotes earned All-North Texas Junior College Athletic Conference honors. They included sophomores Molly Holliday, Carlie Jenkins, Alex Kovacs and Andrea Zuniga-Romero along with freshmen Jordan Griffith, Kelbie Crelia and Lauren Gunter. “We have a big returning class next year, and an even bigger class coming in,” said Williams. “We have a couple of local standouts in Megan Mason from Aledo and Bethany Allen from Mineral Wells. We have a couple of other kids as well, Ashlyn Monroe and Bailee Pharis, who will help us out at the plate like Mason and Allen will.

Baseball The Coyote baseball teamposted another winning season, their seventh straight. Weatherford College was in the hunt for a return to regionals right up to the final weekend of the regular season. “Our expectation every year is to compete for a conference

championship and go to a regional,” said head coach Jeff Lightfoot.

After opening the Region V Tournament with a 97-77 win over Midland, they were upset in the second round by McLennan, 113-108.

Three members of the Coyotes landed All-North Texas Junior College Athletic Conference honors. They were sophomores Trooper Reynolds and Tejay Antone along with freshman Scotland Church. Antone had a record-setting season, posting a school-mark of 99 strikeouts in 84 innings, which also led the conference. He has signed to play at Auburn next season, while Reynolds has signed to play at Dallas Baptist. WC finished 14-14 overall and 6-6 in the North Texas Junior College Athletic Conference. Mark Osina took over at midseason in the 2012-13 campaign. That team finished 4-20 overall and 0-11 in conference. Osina went to work to combine his recruits with some solid returning players. The result was a 10-win improvement. Post/center Tonko Vuko was named the conference Freshman of the Year. He averaged 16.9 points (fifth in the league) and 7.6 rebounds (fourth). His four double-doubles were also fourth. Other freshmen who made an impact were post/center Sam Osina, who was second-team All-Conference, and honorable mentions Quentin Henderson (point guard) and Anthony Roberson (guard). Sophomore Nolan Cass went out on a high note, tying for third in the conference in 3-point baskets with 61.

Women’s basketball “I guess unless you win it all you never get as far as you want, but we still had a good year,” said coach Bob McKinley.The Lady Coyotes advanced to the NJCAA Division I National Tournament in 2012-13. With numerous players back from that team, including a pair of All-Americans in forward/post Itiana Taylor and guard Bre Brooks, hopes were high for a return.

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Taylor and Brooks were also named All-Americans by the WBCA this season. In fact, WC had the top three rebounders in the league, with sophomore post Toma Zaleckaite second (10.7) and freshman forward Zippy Khasoa third (8.7).

Men’s basketball

The Lady Coyotes (21-4 overall) repeated as North Texas Junior College Athletic Conference champions with a 13-1 league mark.

Capping their season, McKinley was named the conference Coach of the Year for a third straight season. Brooks was named the conference Player of the Year for a second straight year, and Taylor was chosen firstteam all-conference for a second consecutive time.

Freshman guard/forward Ciara Johnson was second in the conference in field goal percentage (53.5).

Rodeo The Weatherford College rodeo team fell short of a national championship at the College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming. But they will forever have history as the first team from WC to advance to the competition. The program had sent numerous individuals over the previous nine seasons. Jared Parsonage posted the highest finish for Coyotes, reaching the short-go of bull riding and tying for 10th in the final standings. The top 12 after three rounds advanced to the short-go. Landon Williams finished 17th in tie down roping, and Kody Mahaffey was 25th in steer wrestling. Also, Williams, Casey Tew, Cole Wheeler and Aaron Macy tied for 41st in team roping. For Williams, it was his second consecutive season in which he competed at the CNFR. He also qualified in team roping as WC’s lone qualifier in 2013. Tew is the third member of his family to compete at the CNFR. His brother Cody won a national championship in team roping in 2007, and sister Cadee qualified in breakaway roping for WC in 2011 and in team roping for Tarleton State University in 2013.

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Churches Adell Community Fellowship 101 Adell Road Weatherford, Texas 76088 940-682-4224 adellcommunityfellowship.com Agnes Baptist Church 350 Agnes N Springtown, Texas 76082-5044 817-523-7271 agnesbaptist.com dougharris@agnesbaptist.com Aledo Christian Center 241 North Front St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-9062 aledocc.org aledochristian@att.net Aledo Church of Christ 201 South FM 1187 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8074 aledochurchofchrist.com aledocofc@sbcglobal.net

Aledo United Methodist Church 100 Pecan St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8329 aledoumc.org cynthia@aledoumc.org All Saints Episcopal Church 123 South Waco St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-8734 allsaintsweatherford.org secallsaints@uwmail.com Annetta United Methodist Church 2836 West FM 5 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-599-7950 annettaumc.org Baker Baptist Church 1912 Baker Cut Off Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-594-3490

Ballew Springs Baptist Church 2301 Ballew Springs Road Weatherford, Texas 76088 940-328-0838 Bethel Baptist Church 201 Kathey St. Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-458-8502 craig@psalm34-8.com Bethel Missionary Baptist Church 408 South Ash St. Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-4238 Bethel United Methodist Church 3196 Bethel Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-3418 bethelumcweatherford.org katie@bethelumcweatherford. org

Bethesda United Methodist Church 6657 FM 113 North Weatherford, Texas 76088 940-682-7339 bethesdaumc.com office@bethesdaumc.com Better Life Community Church 3607 East Highway 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-677-2300 betterlifefamily.com staff@betterlifeministries.org Beulah Baptist Church 350 Beulah Road Millsap, Texas 76066 817-594-3757 beulahbaptistmillsap.com beulahbaptistchurch@cirranet. net Brazos Trails Cowboy Church 300 Sharla Smelley Road Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-599-7377 brazostrailscowboychurch.org

Brock Baptist Church 2111 FM 1189 Brock, Texas 76087 817-596-7944 fbcbrock.com office@fbcbrock.com Brock United Methodist Church 127 Lazy Bend Road Brock, Texas 76087 817-613-0332 brockumc.com church@brockumc.com Calvary United Methodist Church 210 Garner Road Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-5215 Center Point Church of God 190 Center Point Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 Centerpoint Baptist Church 1003 Center Point Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-3139

8S WR GD\V ZN DP WR SP

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2014-2015 53

Central Baptist Church 4260 Old Agnes Road Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-594-5918 Central Christian Church 1602 South Main Street Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-3053 welcometothetable.us office@welcometothetable.us Christ Church West Meets at Tucker Reds, Grand Hall, 4971 East I-20 Willow Park, texas 76087 christchurchwest.org

Community Christian Church 2 Dean Drive Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-7393 cccaledo.org Cool Assembly of God Church 10499 Mineral Wells Hwy. Cool, Texas 76088 940-682-4401

Couts United Methodist Church 802 North Elm St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-8601 coutsmethodistchurch.com couts@sbcglobal.net

Church At The Crossing 128 Elm St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8885 crossingaledo.com

Cross Timbers Bible Church 6505 FM 920 Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-599-7759 crosstimbersbiblechurch.com

Church of Christ at Tin Top 320 Old Tin Top Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-599-6382

Emmanuel Baptist Church 201 Kathey St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-3566 emmanuelweatherford.com

Church of Christ Hillcrest 236 West I-20 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-4330 Church of God North Main 803 North Main Street Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-4673 Clear Fork Baptist Church 100 Ragle Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-594-1154 clearforkbaptistchurch.org pastorbilly@clearforkbaptistchurch.org Community Baptist Church 1101 West Ball Street Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-0406 cbcweatherford.com cbcweatherford@att.net

54 2014-2015

Harmony Baptist Church 242 Harmony Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-599-0600 harmonybc.org

Cornerstone Community Church 2233 East Highway 199 East Springtown, Texas 76082 817-677-3514 springtownccc.com ourcornerstone@gmail.com

Christ the King Covenant Church 2800 Tin Top Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 2316 Highway 180 West Mineral Wells, Texas 76087 817-594-8720 ckcchome.org

Church of Christ Case and Spring 201 Case St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-7722

Greenwood Baptist Church 1504 Greenwood Cutoff Road Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-596-8302 greenwoodbc.com info@greenwoodbc.com

Faith Baptist Church 1411 Carter Road Springtown, Texas 76082 817-599-6773 Faith Baptist Fellowship 1411 Carter Road Springtown, Texas 76082 817-599-6773 Faith Presbyterian Church 301 Bailey Ranch Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6262 faithaledo.com Fellowship Baptist Church Hwy. 51 North, 173 Green Branch Road Weatherford, Texas 76085 817-599-4177 thefellowshipbaptistchurch.org First Baptist Church of Brock 2111 FM 1189 Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-7944 fbcbrock.com

Heritage Baptist 3577 North FM 51 Weatherford, Texas 76085 817-444-1595 heritagebaptistpc.com heritagebaptistpc@charter.net Hilltop Baptist Church 702 East 1st Street Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-1646

First Baptist Church of Poolville 202 South Church St. Poolville, Texas 76487 817-594-3916 fbcpoolville.org First Baptist Church of Springtown 500 North Main St. Springtown, Texas 76082-2102 817-220-5229 firstbaptistspringtown.com fbcstown@flash.net First Baptist Church of Weatherford 221 Church St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-5457 fbcweatherford.org First Baptist Church of Willow Park 601 Ranch House Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-441-7170 fbcwillowpark.com First Free Will Baptist Church 109 North Line St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-9620 weatherfordfwb.com pastor@weatherfordfwb.com First United Methodist Church of Springtown 109 West 3rd St., P.O. Box 266 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-7874 springtownumc.org springtownumc@gmail.com

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First United Methodist Church of Weatherford 301 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-4231 fumcw.org office@fumcweatherford.org Friendship Baptist Church 801 Friendship Road Weatherford, Texas 76085 817-594-5940 friendshipbc-wford.org Fundamental Baptist Church 433 North Main St. Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-5477 fbcspringtown.com Garner Baptist Church 2304 North FM 113 Weatherford, Texas 76088 940-682-7533 Grace Community Fellowship 111 West Ranch Lane Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-599-9173 gcflife.com gcflife@yahoo.com Grace First Presbyterian Church 606 Mockingbird Lane Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-2744 gracefirstpc.org info@gracefirstpc.org

Hilltop Family Church 1227 Old Cottondale Rd Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-7177 hilltop-church.com Holy Redeemer Catholic Church 16250 Old Weatherford Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-3500 holyredeemeraledo.org Hope Lutheran Church 4795 East Highway 199 Springtown, Texas 76082-7381 817-221-4673 hopelutheranspringtown.com LaJunta Church of Christ 1460 Newsom Mound Rd. Springtown, Texas 76082 817-677-3290 Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church 200 South Lakeshore Drive Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-596-0100 lakeshorebaptist.com admin@lakeshorebaptist.com Messiah Lutheran Church 907 Washington Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-613-1334 messiahmission.org Midway Baptist Church 4110 East Highway 199 Springtown, Texas 76082-7244 817-221-5683 midwaybaptist-church.org midwaybaptist.church@yahoo. com

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New Beginnings Church 810 Goshen Road Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-4462 nbcspringtown.com New Faith Baptist 3303 West FM 5 Aledo, Texas 76008 New Hope Baptist Church 107 South Bowie Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-9801 nhbcwfd.org info@nhbcwfd.org New River Fellowship 3252 East I-20 Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-341-7970 NewRiver.tv North Main Church of Christ 1302 North Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-6896 northmaincofc.org nmaincc@att.net North Main Church of God 803 North Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-4673 North Side Baptist Church 910 North Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-8612 nsbcweatherford.com Oak Ridge Baptist Church 310 North Oak Ridge Drive Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-613-1580 oakridgebc.com Oak Ridge Church of Christ 4895 East I-20 Service Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-1875 oakridgechurch.org Outreach Of Love Assembly Of God 3591 East Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082-6834 817-221-2983 olcconnect.com Ourtreach of Love Church World Ministries 134 Otto Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-594-6108 olcwm.org Parker County Cowboy Church 5050 FM 5 S Aledo, Texas 76008 817-925-0910 pccowboychurch.org

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Poolville Church of Christ 304 North Church St. Poolville, Texas 76487 817-594-4182

Springtown Baptist Temple 201 John Woody Road East Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-0376

Poolville United Methodist Church 230 North Church St. Poolville, Texas 76487 817-599-3601 umcpoolville.org

Springtown Church of Christ 316 Church St. Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-4419 springtownchurchofchrist.org springtownchurch@yahoo.com

The Summit (A Fellowship of St. Paul Lutheran Church) 111 Maverick St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8707 the-summit.org

weatherfordchurch.com church_info@weatherfordchurch.com

Tri-County Church of Christ 525 West Hwy 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-538-7996

Weatherford Presbyterian Church 204 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-1277 weatherfordpca.org weatherfordpca@att.net

Trinity Bible Church 4936 East I-20 Access Road South Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-7477 trinitybible.com

Westwood Christian Fellowship 1010 South Bowie Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-5190 wcffamily.com

Trinity Lutheran Church 1500 West Ball St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-613-1939 trinityweatherford.org trinityweatherford@sbcglobal. net

Wheatland Baptist Church 15910 Hwy. 377 South Fort Worth, Texas 76126 817-443-6063 wheatlandbaptistchurch.org

Prince Memorial CME 410 West Oak St. Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-594-2003 Saint Francis of Assisi Church 117 Ranch House Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-9156 stfranciswillowpark.org Saint Stephenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Church 211 South Main St. and 1802 Bethel Road Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-9585 ss-cc.org office@saintstephenschurch. org Santa Fe Drive Baptist Church 1502 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-2863 santafebaptistchurch.com hl.jayne@sbcglobal.net Shady Grove Baptist Church 2470 West Lambert Road Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-594-2057 shadygrovebaptistchurch.net

The Church in Peaster 8601 FM 920 Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-596-8805 thechurchinpeaster.com thechurchinpeaster@thechurchinpeaster.org

Silverado Cowboy Church 4000 West I-20 Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-596-5880 silveradocowboychurch.org

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 2251 Bethel Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-599-9700

South Main Church of Christ 201 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-3030 southmaincoc.com smcoc76086@yahoo.com

The Episcopal Church in Parker County 2 Dean Drive Aledo, Texas 76008 817-637-0846 episcopalchurchpc.org info@episcopalchurchpc.org

South Side Baptist Church 1115 South Brazos St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-3239 ssbcweatherford.com Spring Creek Baptist Church 100 Spring Creek Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-594-3707

The Fellowship at Weatherford 2721 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-5743 thefellowshipaw.com thefellowshipaw@aol.com

Your Parker County

Union Baptist Church 3451 Sarra Lane Springtown, Texas 76082 817-613-1441 Victory Baptist Church 1311 East Bankhead Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-7421, 817-596-8728 vbcinfo.com info@vbcinfo.com Weatherford Church of Christ 202 West Ranch Court Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-594-0910

Willow Park Baptist Church 129 South Ranch House Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-1596 willowparkbaptist.org Willow Park Church of Christ 721 Ranch House Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-447-9056 willowparkchurchofchrist.com Windmill Church of Christ 4839 Tin Top Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-613-0277 windmillcoc.org

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Non-Profits American Red Cross Parker County 1740 Bethel Road Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-4516 chisholmtrail.redcross.org

Aledo Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Advocatsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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.

Careity Foundation P.O. Box 126038 Fort Worth, Texas 76107 817-882-4100 www.careity.org

Aledo Education Foundation P.O. Box 387 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-8327 http://www.aledoef.org

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

Aledo Young Life The Yellow House, 328 Old Anetta Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-818-9069 aledo.younglife.org ryan.younglife@gmail.com Ryan Aldridge (Area Director)

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. Laura Noll (director)

Pictures: Stacy Lynch-Evans, Kathy Deen, Robin Sandusky, Debbie Kern, Bundy Renfro, Robert Duvall, Gary Hunter, Hunter Stockon, Thom Smith, Piper Pardue,, Rees Atkins, Sharon Auflick, Sharon Ponder, Jennifer Neel, Sheila Swan, Christi Sears, Barbara Pask, Bridgett Smith, Sabrina Coates, Paula Hardin, Keith Fulton, Jan Lynch (Owner/Broker)

Located in the Aledo School District for 42 years!

#1 Most recognized Real Estate Brand in the world! #1 Most experienced Agents selling Aledo Schools! Everything We Touch Turns to SOLD!

56 2014-2015

Your Parker County

Not Pictured: Bart Largent, Carol Detherage, Harry Scoggin, Jad BenBarka, Jerry Stockon (Builder/Broker), Jodi Rudel, Joni Kolar, Paul Terpening, Raymond Burr, Ryan Atkins, Sam Feronti, Sharon Bruton, TJ Hotchkin, Tony Aaron, Whitney Harris , NEWCOMERS-Don Bonneau and Laura Kellam

Call Callone oneofofour ourexpert expertagents agentsatat 817-441-8059 or visit our 817-441-8059 or visit our webwebsite www.c21lynch.com site www.c21lynch.com Specializing In: Specializing In: ? x ? x ? x

Residential Residential Commercial Commercial Land and Ranches Land and Ranches

? x ? x ? x

Lots and Acreage Lots and Acreage Building Sites and Builders Building Sites and Builders Buyer and Selling Agents Buyer and Selling Agents

MWOB: Minority Woman Owned Business Each office independently owned and operated.

www.yourparkercounty.com

FACING PAGE: Freedom House holds a balloon vigil each April in observance of Crime Victims’ Week. The 2014 vigil was held at the Doss Heritage and Culture Center in Weatherford (pictured). Freedom House provides shelter and services to victims of family violence including hospital accompaniment, law enforcement accompaniment, court accompaniment, legal advocacy, protective orders, transportation, child advocacy, education, individual and group, play therapy, crime victims’ compensation assistance, information and inspiration, community referrals, crisis intervention, support, commmunity education, transportation and child care. BRENT CAUDILL/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Center of Hope (Weatherford) 629 Palo Pinto St., Suite D Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-0266 http://centerofhopetx.com Hours: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Haven 318 West Spring St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-314-1909 crossroads-wfd.org Youth counseling and mentoring Contact: Cindy Hanna (Program Director)

Parker Paws P.O. Box 781 Weatherford, Texas 76008 817-694-5718 parkerpaws.org barb@parkerpaws.org Pet adoptions

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

Hemispherectomy Foundation P.O. Box 1239 Aledo, Texas 76008 hemifoundation.org kristi@hemifoundation.org Chris Hall (Executive Director), Kristi Hall (president), Jane Stefanik (vice president)

Goodwill Store 1801 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-613-0825 Hours: Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday from Noon to 5 p.m.

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.

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

Parker County Pets Alive nokillweatherford.webs.com facebook.com/parkercountypetsalive Working toward no-kill shelter

Thanksgiving Trot 505 S Point Ct Aledo, TX 76008 aledothanksgivingtrot.com United Way of Parker County 106 Austin Ave., Suite 108 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-5986 www.unitedwayofparkercounty.org www.rideunitedparkercounty.com Weatherford Access Center 220 Fort Worth Hwy., Suite 125 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-374-7911 Fax: 817-599-6309 Weatherford ISD Education Foundation 1100 Longhorn Dr. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-2956 Fax: 817-598-2953 http://wisdef.wordpress.com

Insurance & Investments

MORRIS MBA, CBC

Brandon W. Garrett CFP®,Wealth Advisor LPL Registered Representative

Angela Smith Wealth Advisor LPL Registered Representative

ATT

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817-529-5325

Gary D. Snow CPA LPL Registered Representative

Wayne Garrett

Securities offered through NFP Securities, Inc., a Broker/Dealer and Member FINRA/SIPC NFC Securities, Inc. is not affiliated with The Gus Bates Company.

CPA/PFS, CFP® LPL Registered Principal

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We offer access to the following services: Investment Management, Estate Planning and Wealth Preservation Strategies, Retirement Strategies, Tax Planning, Comprehensive Wealth and Financial Planning, Life, Long-term Care and Disability Insurance and Annuity Products 1207 Santa Fe Drive | Weatherford, Texas 76086 Phone: 817-596-9301 | Fax: 817-596-9304 | www.sg-wealth.com Securi�es and Financial Planning oﬀered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC

The Community News

Employee Benefits Programs Retirement Plans and Investments Property and Casualty Coverage Personal Line Insurance Corporate Wellness Programs

Dental Services

ARAH J. MORRIS DDS, PLLC

General and Family Dentistry Massage Chairs and HDTV 2551 River Park Dr. Water Purification System Suite 201 State-of-the-Art Fort Worth, TX 76116 Sterilization Room 817-732-4419 Invisalign and Zoom! Whitening

www.sarahmorrisdds.com

Your Parker County

2014-2015 57

Clubs and Organizations Aledo Rotary Club Pauls Johns, VP Meets at noon on Mondays at Fish Creek in Willow Park 817-441-1717 paula.johns@interbankus.com Bush Legacy Republican Women Judy James (president) 1701 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-0291 www.blrww.com

Bob Carlson of the Aledo Community Lions Club (left) and Don Quy of the Weatherford Noon Lions Club display a big screen TV that Carlson won at the Weatherford Club’s drawing. The following week Quy won the same TV at Aledo’s drawing in March 2014.

Business Development Group of Aledo Steve Bartley - Ciera National Bank P.O. Box 1565 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-5200 www.myaledo.com

Aledo Community Lions Club Robert A. Carlson, Membership Chairman P.O. Box 26 Aledo, Texas 76008

East Parker County Genealogy & Historical Society P.O. Box 223 Aledo, Texas 76008

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

817-441-9191 www.aledolions.com, www. facebook.com/aledolionsclub

Meets at 101 Stagecoach Trail, Willow Park 817-233-4322 Millsap Heritage Society P.O. Box 792 Millsap, Texas 76066 Meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday night of each month at the Log Cabin/ City Hall http://millsapheritagesociety. org Millsap Neighborhood Home & Garden Club Millsap, Texas 76066 Meets at Millsap Community Center on Fannin St. the 1st Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. MOM’s Club of Aledo and Willow Park 817-598-0231 awpmomsclub.tripod.com awpmomsclub@gmail.com

NAACP, Weatherford/Parker County Branch P.O. Box 1805 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-3528 Native Plant Society of Texas Ellen Porter 817-596-5567 www.npsot.org/wp/crosstimbers Parker County 4-H Kayla Neill (County Extension Agent, 4-H & Youth Development) 604 North Main St., Suite 200 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6172 parker.agrilife.org kbneill@ag.tamu.edu Parker County Aggie Mom’s Club parkercomoms.aggienetwork. com

We’ll take care of everything! Swimming Pool Construction • Renovations • Repairs Outdoor Kitchens • Fireplaces • Weekly Pool Service • Pool Chemicals

58 2014-2015

Your Parker County

www.yourparkercounty.com

Parker County Active Democrats 113 Kingswood Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 Meets at 321 South Main, Weatherford, Texas on second Monday 817-565-3301 parkercountyactivedemocrats.org Parker County Amateur Radio Club P.O. Box 1795 Weatherford, Texas 76086 Meets at Weatherford Community Center, 710 Narrow St., Weatherford, Texas Parker County Christian Home Educators www.parkercountyhomeschool.org Parker County Democratic Party 321 South Main Weatherford, Texas 76086 www.parkercodemocrats.org Parker County Health Foundation Craig Harbuck (Boar, chairperson) 200 Palo Pinto Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-1990 parkercountyhealthfoundation.org Parker County Heritage Society P.O. Box 97 Weatherford, Texas 76086 www.parkercountyheritagesociety.com

The Community News

Parker County Master Gardener Association 604 North Main, Suite 200 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-6069 www.pcmg-texas.org pcmgaquestions@gmail.com

Parker County Women’s and Newcomers’ Club Jackie Dixon 817-991-4402, Dana Cook 817-598-5924 P.O. Box 362 Weatherford, Texas 76086 www.pcwnc.org

Parker County Republican Party One Austin Ave. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-0711 www.parkertxgop.org

Pioneer Square Dance Club Clarice Davis 817-594-1258 www.pioneerssquaredance.com cdavis2.4@sbcglobal.net

Parker County Republican Women 113 Highland Drive Aledo, Texas 76008 parkercountyrepublicanwomen.org Parker County Sheriff’s Posse Bob Glenn 2251 Mineral Wells Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-598-5402 www.parkercountysheriffsposse.com bglenn@plainscapital.com Parker County Texas Democratic Women Freda Burks 817-220-0191 www.tdw.org/ParkerCountyTDW/

Quilters Guild of Parker County P.O. Box 2022 Weatherford, Texas 76086 www.quiltersguildofparkercounty.org Springtown Lions Club James Wooten 817-771-2540 www.slcyouthsports.com The Gluten Intolerance Group of North Texas Betty Barfield (Branch manager) 817-929-9227 www.northtexasgig.com Volunteer Musicians of Parker County Sharon Lasater www.facebook.com/VMOPC VMOPC@hughes.net

Your Parker County

Meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Thursday of each month at the Weatherford Senior Center. Weatherford Noon Lions Club Brooks Worthington (president) www.weatherfordnoontx.lionwap.org Weatherford Optimist Club www.sites.google.com/site/weatherfordoptimist/ Weatherford Rotary Club Weatherford, Texas 76086 Meets at North Side Baptist Church, 910 North Main St., Weatherford www.weatherfordrotary.org Weatherford Stage Performers 817-594-5596 www.weatherfordstage@ont.com Weatherford Toastmasters 817-594-6869 www.4963.toastmastersclubs.org svdunn@charter.net Zonta Club Peggy E. Hutton (president) P.O. Box 2095 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-3801 www.zontaparkercounty.org

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Senior Services Weatherford Senior Center & Meals on Wheels (administered by the Parker County Committee on Aging) P.O. Box 817 1225 Holland Lake Road, Weatherford, Texas 76086 Phone: 817-596-4640 pccoaonline.net

OTHER SERVICES

Department of Family and Protective Services 4113 Hwy. 180 East Suite B, Mineral Wells, Texas 76067 940-325-6959 24-Hour Hotline: 1-800-252-5400 Experience Works Workforce Solutions for North Central Texas 126 College Park Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-0049 Legal Hotline for Older Texans 800-622-2520 Texas Department of Aging & Disability Services P.O. Box 149030 78751 701 W 51st Street, Austin, Texas 78751 512-438-3011 www.dads.state.tx.us

SERVICES FROM THE PARKER COUNTY COMMITTEE ON AGING Call the PCCOA for information: 817-596-4640 – Opportunities provided to Parker County residents ages 60-plus from the Parker County Committee on Aging • CASE MANAGEMENT Administered from the Weatherford Senior Center to participants throughout Parker County, this service provides individual assessment, arranging of necessary care and services, ongoing monitoring of client’s status and periodic revision of the overall service plan. • INFORMATION AND REFERRAL An ongoing program providing senior adults and their advocates or caregivers with concrete information about public and voluntary services and resources available to them. • PREVENTATIVE HEALTH Emergency assistance to purchase prescription medications, pay utility bills and liquid nutricial supplements.

• TELEPHONE REASSURANCE Daily calls from the Senior Center to homebound individuals to assure their safety and well being. • SENIOR CENTER Open five days a week, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Center provides recreation, physical fitness, personal improvement and positive thinking to help seniors remain active. It also provides periodic services such as immunizations, tax preparation, health screenings and educational speakers. • MEALS ON WHEELS Delivered five days a week to homebound elderly who are unable to prepare their own meals or who lack family, friends or other community resources. These meals also meet 1/3 RDA requirements. • TRANSPORTATION Available Monday through Friday, this service offers reduced rates for trips to pharmacies, grocers, doctors’ offices and to the Senior Center. • CONGREGATE MEALS Served five days a week in a congregate setting at the Weatherford Senior Center, these meals meet 1/3 of the RDA requirements for senior adults.

We provide assistance and support for just about every personal, nonmedical and social need you or your loved one may have.

Trusted Home Support Professionals

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817-441-2339 • www.srhomecareservices.com 1951 Fort Worth Hwy, Suite 104 • Weatherford, TX 76086 60 2014-2015

Your Parker County

www.yourparkercounty.com

IN HOME CARE Bethany Home Health 1320 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-1436

Beyond Faith Home Health Care 109 Larson Lane, Suite 100 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-2747 www.beyondfaithhcr.com Brazos River Home Health 208 North Main St. Suite 200 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-4663 www.brazosriverhomehealth.com Encompass Home Health Care 1925 Martin Drive, Suite 100 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-4350 Family Care of Texas 1510 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 600 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-7186 familycareoftexas.com/weatherford Integracare Home Health & Hospice 813 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 100 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-0192 www.integracarehh.com

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNIITY NEWS

Rada Grimes provides Mary Kay samples to Mary Sherman and Dora Briscow at the Parker County Senior Center.

Fort Worth Tree & Pest Specialists Protecting Homes Inside and Out Residential and Commercial Pest Control Aledo Family Owned and Operated

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Photinia Entomosporium

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Brown Patch Fungus

Deep Root Fertilizations

Infected Red Oak & Live Oak

The Community News

Services

• Nursing • Diabetic Education • Wound Care • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy • Home Health Aides • Social Worker

~ Oak Wilt Prevention ~ Deep Root Fertilization Systematic Insecticide Injections

Oak Wilt Treatments

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Specialty Services • Medication Reminder Service - Alarming Pill Box • Emergency Response Device - BeyondFaith Connect • Daily Monitor your loved one’s condition - Web Nurse at Home

TEXAS

PEST CONTROL ASSOCIATION

109 Larson Lane, Suite 100 • Aledo, TX 76008 817-771-8368 • www.beyondfaithhomecare.com Your Parker County

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NURSING AND REHAB Holland Lake Nursing Center 1201 Holland Lake Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-0160 www.hollandlakenursingcenter.org

Keeneland Nursing Home 700 South Bowie Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-2715 www.daybreakventure.com

Willow Park Rehabilitation & Care Center 300 Crown Pointe Blvd. Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-757-1200

Santa Fe Health and Rehabilitation Center 1205 Santa Fe Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-2786 www.santafehealthandrehab.com

ASSISTED AND INDEPENDENT LIVING

Martin Crest Assisted Living and Memory Care 1818 Martin Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-1169 www.capitalsenior.com Park View Terrace Apartments for Seniors 1301 Holland Lake Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-3883

Arbor House 1101 Jameson St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-5075 www.arborhouse4u.com

Peach Tree Place 315 West Anderson St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-4181 www.savaseniorcare.com

Autumn Hill Manor 202 West Rentz Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-4159 www.autumnhillmanor.com

Senior Home Care Services 1951 Fort Worth Hwy., Suite 104 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-441-2339 www.srhomecareservices.com

Hilltop Park Rehabilitation & Care Center 970 Hilltop Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-0000

Sterling House of Weatherford 904 South Lamar St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-4100 www.brookdaleliving.com

LEFT: Marvin Wood entertains at the Senior Center. CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

ó - Oﬀering -

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• Short Term Rehab • Extended or Long Term Care • Physical Therapy • Hospice Care • Speech and Swallow Therapy • Medicare/Insurance/Private Pay • Occupational Therapy • Private, Semi-Private and Suite Rooms • Skilled Nursing Services • Privately Owned with Hometown Management

1201 Holland Lake Dr. Weatherford, TX 76086 817-598-0160 62 2014-2015

www.hollandlakenursingcenter.org Your Parker County

www.yourparkercounty.com

It’s all about the Journey w DeAnn Spence

shares music with an uplifting message

By Phil Major

The Community News

eAnn and Rick Spence didn’t set out to be in the music business. But that’s where their life’s journey together has led, and the Aledo couple is content to follow that path wherever it might take them. The title of DeAnn’s new CD, “It’s About the Journey,” pays homage to that pathway. As Rick put it, “Let God open doors; my job is to walk through them.” Part of their appeal has been their willingness to share their journey, including its most painful parts. They lost their son Barrett, at age 16 in 2007, when the van in which he was riding lost control, killing two teens. It was music that helped them heal from such an immense tragedy, and it is in sharing that story that they have connected with so many. It was their producer, Jim Van Cleve, who first encouraged them to tell their story while on stage. “Everybody needs hope,” he told them. It has been a message that has resonated. They said that at every performance, at least one person will approach them who wasn’t planning to come, but was uplifted by their story. DeAnn’s musical journey began mostly singing in church choirs as a youth growing up in Aledo. Rick was much more exposed to music. He father

The Community News

had a country band in the Panhandle, and many in his family were musicians. Rick picked up the guitar at age 12 and heard plenty of bluegrass music as a youngster. But he always thought “someday” he would like to try the mandolin. The couple met in 1986 while sophomores in college, married two years later, and had two sons. Though DeAnn had her education degree from TCU, she decided to devote herself to raising Barrett and Dylan. But after that March 2007 accident, the Spences faced challenges they could not have imagined, just trying to figure out how to go on. Around October Rick decided that “someday” couldn’t wait any more and announced to DeAnn one day

in the family kitchen that he was going to buy a mandolin. She guessed it must be a sign of his mid-life crisis and teased him that it would be cheaper than a girlfriend or a Corvette. After he got it home she asked, “You do know how to play that, right?” He did not. But it was close enough to the guitar that he began to pick it up. In the mean time he became involved in a Bible study that later led to the formation of the Parker County Cowboy Church. Rick was invited to play with the church band, and later invited DeAnn to sing. Though he had only heard her sing along to the radio, he knew her voice had a way of connecting with people.

Your Parker County

Still she admitted to some stage fright the first time she appeared before the congregation. “Everybody in church was so accepting,” she said. That acceptance, she says, was part of their growth. From there their music led them down many paths, participating in a documentary on the healing power of music, helping with a program to bring musical instruments to children in the hospital called “Music as Medicine,” and the formation of the FullHouse bluegrass band, all but one of whom are fellow church members. As their reach expanded, they began to get requests for their music, and a CD soon followed, “FullHouse,” recorded in Fort Worth in 2011. They had been together as a group only 4-5 months, and

2014-2015 63

In his travels, as a salesman for retirement programs, Rick’s territory included Tennessee.

fall that it was time to consider another recording. But his band mates – all with other full-time jobs – weren’t yet ready.

That led to an introduction to Jim Van Cleve, a wellknown blue grass musician.

So he and DeAnn hatched the idea of a solo album for her.

Rick found out he could take mandolin lessons from Van Cleve via the internet.

This time they went to Van Cleve in Franklin, Tenn., where they could take advantage of a top-flight recording facility and well-known Nashville session musicians.

found recording to be quite a learning experience.

As their relationship grew, Rick learned Van Cleve also produced music, and next came a collaboration on the second FullHouse album, “He Carried Me.” Van Cleve journeyed to Texas, and Rick built a studio in a room above their garage. From a grueling four days came the results they were looking for. The second CD was much improved, and the Spence’s speak of it with pride. Rick, who’s always pushing for what’s next, thought last

64 2014-2015

“We wanted to do some songs people would recognize, and some originals,” DeAnn said. By that time she and Rick had tried their hands at songwriting as well. One piece was composed for her parents’ 50th anniversary. (Her Dad, Eldon Ray, is a native Aledoan, and her granddad had a dairy here.) “We feel so strongly about the things we chose to record,” DeAnn said.

There are cover designs and websites and distribution. And they are mostly a do-it-yourself operation. They have formed their own recording company to handle all that and are waiting to see where the musical journey leads next, what doors may open. “I’m just enjoying the ride,” DeAnn said. They realize that their message – that there’s always hope – is what guides them.

Having the facility and musicians made things so much easier. A lot of details have to come together to make a recording, and Rick admits there were times he wasn’t sure it would happen. “We spent so much time and love getting it together,” he said. There’s much more to a recording than the music.

Your Parker County

“It’s been impressed upon us to carry on with that,” DeAnn said. “We certainly don’t take it for granted that He has put all these people in our lives,” she said. When the CD was released April 18, the party was held in Aledo. “This is a celebration of the people who have supported us,” Rick said.

www.yourparkercounty.com

Living in Parker County SPORTS/ PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Aledo Yoga and Nia Studio 203 East Oak St. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6206 www.aledoyoga.com

Aledo Athletics Youth baseball, softball, t-ball, honkball 1100 Bankhead Hwy. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-7279 www.aledoathletics.com info@aledoathletics.com

Aledo Youth Football P.O. Box 886 Aledo, Texas 76008 www.aledoyouthfootball.org

Aledo Athletic Club 601 South FM 1187, Suite A Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-2444 aledoathleticclub@gmail.com Aledo Lions Club Youth basketball 817-441-9191 www.aledolions.com www.facebook.com/aledolionsclub

The Community News

Anytime Fitness 200 South Oakridge Drive, Suite 109 Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-613-1625 Anytime Fitness 1108 South Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-3600 www.anytimefitness.com Bicycle Texas Parker County www.bicycletexasparkercounty.com hihoranch-cycleparker@yahoo.com

Crossfit City View 1151 Underwood Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-676-8182 www.crossfitcityview.com amy@crossfitcityview.com Diamond Fitness 3619 Stage Coach Trail Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-613-8000 Fit For Life 148 College Park Dr. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-596-4579 Fit For Life 119 South Ranch House Road Willow Park, Texas 76008 817-953-6666 www.fitforlifecenter.com Fit USA 301 West I-20 Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-598-9100 www.fitusafitness.com

Your Parker County

Maverick All-Star Tumblers 1308 Santa Fe Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-613-1189 www.maverickallstars.com Parker County Sportsman Club Hunting and fishing P.O. Box 424 Weatherford, Texas 76086 www.parkersportsman.com Parker County Tennis Association www.parkercountytennis.org guy21@charter.net Tateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Total Training 126 North Elm St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-6550 www.tatestotaltraining.com tatekerry@yahoo.com The Rock of Sports & Performing 205 Mikus Road Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-9689 www.therockweatherford.com therock.officestaff@gmail.com

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Weatherford ISD Community Education 900 North Elm St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-2806 www.weatherfordisd.com cstone@weatherfordisd.com

www.weatherfordyouth.com info@weatherfordyouth.com

OTHER RECREATION

Weatherford Little League 1101 Charles St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 www.weatherfordlittleleague.com Weatherford Optimist Club Mike Martin sites.google.com/site/ weatherfordoptimist

Cherry Park Pool 302 West Lee Ave., Corner of Lee and Alamo Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-4382 (summer only) 817-5984125 (off-season) www.weatherfordparks.com City Lights Weatherford Theater 1000 Cinema Drive Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-341-3232

Weatherford Parks & Rec 119 Palo Pinto Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-4124 parkinfo@weatherfordtx.gov Weatherford Soccer Association Youth Soccer P.O. Box 1033 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-0424 www.weatherford-soccer.com Weatherford Youth Association Youth Football

Splash Kingdom Wild West 1001 Cinema Dr. Hudson Oaks, Texas 76087 817-598-0777 http://splashkingdomwaterpark.com/ hudson-oaks The Texas Opry Theater 315 York Ave. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-1000 www.texasoprytheater.com texasopry@sbcglobal.net

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Your Parker County

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www.yourparkercounty.com

GOLF

Canyon West 160 Club House Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-596-4653 www.canyonwestgolf.com Cross Timbers Golf Course 1181 South Stewart St. Azle, Texas 76020 817-444-4940 www.crosstimbersgc.com Crown Valley Golf Club 29 Crown Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-2222 Horseshoe Bend Country Club 305 Lipan Trail Weatherford, Texas 76087 817-594-6454

PARKS

Springtown Disc Golf 18-Hole Disc Golf Course City Park Springtown, Texas 76082 Squaw Creek Golf Course 1605 Ranch House Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-8185 www.lmra.org/golf.html Split Rail Links and Golf Club 2151 Old Annetta Road Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-4653 www.splitrailgolf.com Sugar Tree Golf Course 7510 FM 1189 Dennis, Texas 817-596-0020 www.sugartreegolf.com

Bearcat Park 151 FM 5 South Aledo, Texas 76008 Bose Ikard Elementary 100 Ikard Lane Weatherford, Texas 76086 Cartwright Park 100 Cartwright Park Road Weatherford, Texas 76088 Cherry Park 300 South Alamo Weatherford, Texas 76086

Lost Creek Golf Club 4101 Lost Creek Blvd. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-244-3312 www.lostcreekgolf.com

Cross Timbers Park 105 West Stagecoach Trail Willow Park, Texas 76087

FACING PAGE: Golf at Split Rail in Annetta. A new clubhouse is under way at the facility. CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Austin Allen Barnett Memorial Gardens Weatherford Regional Medical Center 713 E. Anderson St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Holland Lake Park 1419 Holland Lake Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 Camp Holland

Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway 200 Park Road 71 Mineral Wells, Texas 76067 940-328-1171 Love Street Park 309 Love St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 Marshall Park 115 East Fifth St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 McGratton Park 645 North Main St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 Meditation Garden Off of Ranch House Road Willow Park, Texas 76087 Miller Park 1501 Ball St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 Optimist Park 132 South Main St. Springtown, Texas 76082 Patsy Hooks Dog Park at Heriage Park, Santa Fe Dr. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-4124

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2014-2015 67

Paul Balint Jr. Memorial Park 516 Ranch House Road Willow Park, Texas 76087

RECREATION AND VENUES

Soldier Spring Park 961 Charles St. & 200 Thrush St. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Chandor Gardens 711 West Lee Ave. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-613-1700 www.chandorgardens.com knantz@weatherfordtx.gov

Splash Park 703 Walnut Creek Dr Springtown, Texas 76082 cityofspringtown.com/parks.html Springtown Park 201 South Ave. A Springtown, Texas 76082 Town Creek Hike and Bike Trail Trail Head Locations: Weatherford Police Department 801 Santa Fe Drive Vine Street Park 700 West Vine St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 Weatherford Chamber of Commerce 401 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086

Clark Gardens 567 Maddux Road Weatherford, Texas 76086 940-682-4856 www.clarkgardens.com info@clarkgardens.com Cowtown RV Park 7000 East I-20 Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-7878 www.cowtownrvpark.com Hollow Hill Farm and Event Center 1680 Mary Drive Weatherford, Texas 76085 682-233-3065 www.hollowhilleventcenter.com Lake Weatherford Marina (Lake Weatherford) 210 West Lake Drive Weatherford, Texas 76087

Springtown Public Library 626 North Main St. Springtown, Texas 76082 817-523-5862 www.springtownlibrary.com

817-613-0396 www.lakeweatherfordmarina.com lakeweatherfordmarina@att.net Oak Creek RV Park 7952 I-20 Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-0200

MUSEUMS

Outwest Campground and RV Park 4009 West Hwy. 199 Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-0476 www.outwestcamp.com rhawkins@eibiz.net

Doss Heritage and Culture Center 1400 Texas Drive Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-599-6168 www.dosscenter.org

Willow Lake Event Center 3220 Mineral Wells Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76088 817-599-3407 www.willowlakeeventcenter.com

Museum of the Americas 216 Fort Worth Hwy. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-341-8668 www.museumoftheamericas.com museumam@sbcglobal.net

LIBRARIES

Springtown Legends Museum 839 N Hwy 51 Springtown, Texas 76082 871-220-7759

Weatherford Public Library 1014 Charles St. Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-598-4150 www.wpltx.com

The National Vietnam War Museum 12685 Mineral Wells Hwy. Mineral Wells, Texas 76088 940-325-4003 www.nationalvnwarmuseum.org

East Parker County Library 201 FM 1187 N. Aledo, Texas 76008 817-441-6545 www.epclibrary.com

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE East Parker County Chamber of Commerce “A Proud History, A Bright Future” 100 Chuck Wagon Trail, Willow Park, Texas 76087 817-441-7844 www.eastparkerchamber.com info@eastparkerchamber.com Weatherford Chamber of Commerce “We Mean Business” P.O. Box 310 401 Fort Worth Hwy., Weatherford, Texas 76086 817-594-3801 or 888-594-3801 www.weatherford-chamber.com www.visitweatherford.com info@weatherford-chamber.com

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Springtown Area Chamber of Commerce “Home of the Wild West Festival” P.O. Box 296, 112 South Main, Springtown, Texas 76082 817-220-7828 www.springtownchamber.org chamber@ntbb.net

The Austin Allen Barnett Memorial Garden at Weatherford Regional Medical Center provides a secluded, peaceful spot for meditation and reflection. 68 2014-2015

Your Parker County

www.yourparkercounty.com

Events JANUARY

Chili Supper City of Aledo 1/24/15 Annual chili super and silent auction benefits the Aledo Community Center. Call the City of Aledo at 817-441-7016 or visit www.aledo-texas.com. Martin Luther King Day Celebration Parker County NAACP 1/19/15 The Annual MLK Coloring Contest, Essay, & Artistic Expression awards ceremony, followed by The Annual 10-entry Parker County has Talent Show. This annual event is free and open to the public. NAACP Branch 6321 President P.O. Box 1805 Weatherford, Texas 76086

FEBRUARY Dining and Dancing in the Dark Foundation Fighting Blindness Held at Fish Creek in Willow Park, diners are blindfolded to experience dinner without sight. Call 817-929-2055 or email blessedgirliethorp@yahoo.com Lamplight Spaghetti Dinner Millsap Neighborhood Home & Garden Club 2/14/15 Spaghetti, Sweet Shop and prizes to benefit Millsap students going to college. Call 817-360-6681 Jerry’s GM Bar-B-Q and Silent Auction Parker County Committee on Aging Benefits senior services in Parker County. Includes dinner, silent auction and entertainment. Call 817-596-4640, visit the Senior Center at 1225 Holland Lake Road in Weatherford, or email pccoa@swbell. net.

Charity Gala Parker County Health Foundation Evening of dining and dancing benefits the medical needs of the underserved in Parker County. Call 817-594-1990 or visit www.parkercountyhealthfoundation.org Compassion with Fashion Parker County United Way Lunch and fashion show benefits the Parker County United Way. Call 817-596-5986, email director@ unitedwayofparkercounty.org or visit www.uwpcfashionshow.com. Annual Pancake Supper Weatherford Rotary Club The club’s largest youth scholarship fundraiser event of the year includes silent auction items, pancakes, sausage, bacon, juice, milk or coffee. Visit www.WeatherfordRotary.org or call Darren Donaldson at 817-3041715.

MARCH Run, Walk or Crawl Aledo Childrens Advocats Spring of 2015 Annual 5k/1mile run and festival raises funds to help students in the Aledo ISD. Typically in March or April. Email 5krwc@aledoadvocats.com or visit www.aledoadvocats.com Bearcat 5k Bearcat Bootcamp Spring of 2015 This annual 5k benefits Aledo athletes through the Aledo Booster Club. Visit bearcatbootcamp.org

APRIL Aggie Muster Parker County Aggies 4/21/15 Call Richard Westbrook at 817-4415831 or email westbrookrc@yahoo. com.

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Garden Party East Parker County Library Music, art for children and teens, stories under the trees, croquet, horseshoes and games, a book walk, book sale, silent auction items, great food, and summer reading program sign-up. Call the East Parker County Library at 817-441-6545. Scholarship Style Show Parker County Women’s and Newcomer’s Club Provides scholarships for local students. Call Trish Cloudash at 325-423-2488 or Barbara Boswell at 817-594-5174

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Thousands of people stream to Weatherford every July for the Parker County Peach Festival. Go Greek! Parker County Panhellenic Group 2nd Sunday in April Provides information to senior girls and their mothers about sorority recruitment. Call Jo-Alice Davis at 817-271-1847 or Sandy Caffee at 817-771-2339. Moritz Ride for Heroes Ride for Heroes 3rd Saturday in April The annual Ride for Heroes brings about 1,200 bicyclists to the area each spring to raise money for first responders in east Parker County. Visit www.rideforheroes.org Weatherford Blooms Weatherford Parks and Recreation April 2015, exact date TBD Annual Home and Garden Festival. Free admission. Call Blake Rexroat at 817-598-4034 or visit www.weatjerfordtx.gov/blooms Bearcats & Boots Aledo Education Foundation Raises funds for special projects in the Aledo ISD. Visit http://www.aledoef.org Hope for Children Golf Tournament CASA Hope for Children, Parker County Raises funds for Parker County Court Appointed Special Advocates. Call 817-599-6224 or visit www.casaofparkercounty.com

70 2014-2015

Golf Tournament Crossroads Youth Ministry Benefits ministries to youth in Parker County Visit www.crossroads-wfd.org or call 817-341-1909 Annual Spring Luncheon Friends of the Weatherford Public Library Luncheon raises funds for the Weatherford Public Library Call Gail Greenfield at 817-594-4473. Countywide Cleanup Parker County County precinct barns open one Saturday a year to accept aluminum, iron, glass etc., newspapers, cardboard, tires (rims removed), furniture/ appliances, dried paint cans, lumber, limbs and brush, batteries, oil filters, and oil. Call your precinct barn for more information: Pct. 1: 817-220-7218; Pct. 2: 817-594-4022; Pct. 3: 817-594-0371; Pct. 4: 817-596-0004. Grand Champion Gala Parker County Livestock Improvement Association Proceeds benefit the Parker County Livestock Show and FFA and 4-H exhibitors. Call Lynae Austin, 785-747-6555 or Dee Lambert at 817-366-6581 or email grandchampiongala@yahoo.com.

Dreams on Wings 5K Hemispherectomy Foundation Supports the work of the Hemispherectomy Foundation. This event also allows for “virtual runners” from any location. Visit hemifoundation.homestead.com

Annual Plant Sale Parker County Master Gardeners Offers a tremendous selection of perennials, herbs, vegetable plants, annuals, shrubs, and roses available to help get spring gardening off to a great start. Visit www.pcmg-texas.org or call 817-598-6168 to speak with a Parker County Master Gardener.

JUNE First Friday City of Aledo 6/5/15 Summertime festival in downtown Aledo features vendors, childrens’ activities, and live music. The June event features a fireworks show at dark. Call the City of Aledo at 817-441-7016 or visit www.aledo-texas.com.

Ms Senior Parker County Pageant Parker County Meals on Wheels Pageant raises money for Parker County Meals on Wheels Call Donna Tillman at 817-598-0160 or find Ms. Senior Parker County on Facebook. Annual Open House Shaw-Kemp Ranch Step back in time while looking at log cabins, an original ranch house, school, church, grocery store, post office, bank, barber shop and much more. Free to the public. Watch the calendar at www.community-news.com

Stock Show and Frontier Days Rodeo Parker County Sheriff’s Possee 6/10/15 to 6/13/15 Call Ronnie Davis at 817-565-9568 or visit www.parkercountysheriffsposse. com

MAY Log Cabin Day Millsap Heritage Society 5/16/15 The days activities include a campfire breakfast, tours of the log cabins, displays, demonstrations, entertaiment, craft booths and food. www.millsapheritagesociety.org/home

Your Parker County

Taste of Parker County Weatherford College Foundation Numerous food vendors in Parker County set up samples of their best dishes. Proceeds benefit education at Weatherford College. Visit www.tasteofparkercounty.com or call Brent Baker at 817-598-6275

Junior Golf Tournament Weatherford Optimist Club First week of June Open to boys and girls ages 14-18. Call Nita Ellis at 817-598-2942 or 817992-1766 or call MJ Daniel at 817-266-8461 Golf Tournament Aledo Education Foundation Benefits students in the Aledo Independent School District. Visit http://www.aledoef.org

www.yourparkercounty.com

Movies In The Park City of Weatherford Movies in the Park premiers each June with family-friendly films at the Holland Lake Park Ballfields. Goodies are available for purchase at the ballfield concession stand! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for these FREE family fun summer nights each June! For more information call 817-598-4124.

JULY First Friday City of Aledo 7/3/15 Summertime festival in downtown Aledo features vendors, childrens’ activities, and live music. The July event usually features a classic car show. Call the City of Aledo at 817-441-7016 or visit www.aledo-texas.com. Boomin 4th East Parker County Chamber of Commerce 7/4/15 Independence Day celebration at Gene Voyles Park, 210 North Lakeshore Drive, Hudson Oaks. The

event includes children’s activities and food vendors, and culminated with a 25-minute fireworks display. For more information, visit www.eastparkerchamber.com or call 817-441-7844. Parker County Peach Festival Weatherford Chamber of Commerce 7/11/15 Held annually the 2nd Saturday in July includes arts and crafts, produce, food, entertainment, activities for the kids, bike ride and plenty of Parker County peaches. Call 817-596-3801 or visit www.weatherford-chamber.com.

AUGUST First Friday City of Aledo 8/7/15 Summertime festival in downtown Aledo features vendors, childrens’ activities, and live music. Call the City of Aledo at 817-441-7016 or visit www.aledo-texas.com. Fall into Fashion Zonta Club of Weatherford 8/22/14 - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Come see us for your landscape needs

Fashion show raises funds for Zonta Projects. Email pehutton@weatherford-chamber.com

SEPTEMBER Gift of Adoption Fair Grace House Ministries 9/7/14 The adoption fair will be from 3-6 p.m. at the Doss Heritage Center, 1400 Texas Drive in Weatherford. Present will be adoption and foster agencies, adoption attorneys and families who have successfully adopted to answer your questions about the adoption and foster care journey. Garden Safari Freedom House 9/13/14 Garden Safari features food, drawings and entertainment at Clark Gardens. Benefits Freedom House’s work to shelter and provide counseling and support for victims of domestic violence. Call Freedom House at 817-596-7543 or visit www.freedomhousepc.org

The

Careity Rocks Careity Foundation Sep 17, 2014 Helps critically ill children through Careity’s cancer fund and palliative care. Visit www.careity.org or call 817-882-4100 Ride United Bike Ride Parker County United Way 9/20/14 Annual bike ride has routes of 24 miles, 36 miles & 59 miles and benefits the Parker County United Way. Visit www.rideunitedparkercounty.com or call 817-596-5986 Ranch Rodeo Parker County Sheriff’s Possee 9/12/14 to 9/13/14 9/11/15 to 9/12/15 Call Ronnie Davis at 817-565-9568 or visit www.parkercountysheriffsposse. com

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**Combo Meals Available** French Fries • Tater Tots • Okra Munchers • Onion Rings Corn Nuggets • Squash Dynabytes • Cheese Sticks Hutch’s Fried Pies

2014-2015 71

OCTOBER Chili for Charity, Chili Cook-off Clark Gardens 10/4/14 Chili for Charity offers a fundraising opportunity for nonprofit clubs or civic organizations, school groups, church groups or individuals who care passionately about certain causes, such as local animal shelters, food banks, Relay for Life, or Alzheimer’s Association. All prize awards and funds raised from the sale of chili will benefit each contestant’s designated charity. http://www.clarkgardens.org/events/ fall-festival-and-run.html Dogtoberfest Parker Paws 10/4/14 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dog costume contests, weiner dog races, adoptions and family activities at Fish Creek in Willow Park. Visit parkerpaws.org Lord’s Acre Aledo United Methodist Church 10/4/2014 Car show, food trucks, vendors and numerous children’s activities. Call 817-441-8329 or visit aledoumc. org Horse Trials Greenwood Farms 10/10/14 Horse Trials, also known as “Eventing,” are competitions held in three phases. The same horse and rider ride tests in dressage (a precision ride in a flat arena), show jumping (a round over eight or ten fences with rails that knock down), and finally a ride cross-country for one to two miles, while jumping over fences that don’t knock down. Visit www.greenwoodfarmonline.com or call 817-599-8159.

Pink Luncheon Parker County Health Foundation 10/10/14 The luncheon will be at New River Fellowship in Hudson Oaks. Benefits mammography screenings for Parker County residents. Call 817-594-1990 or visit www. parkercountyhealthfoundation.org Hometown Heritage Stampede City of Weatherford 10/11/14 The event features live music, western vendors, Antique Alley and Kids Area in historic downtown Weatherford. Call 817-598-4034 Free Health Fair Parker County Medical Society 10/11/14 9 a.m. to noon Health fair at Northside Baptist Church includes multiple vendors and stations providing free flu shots, cancer awareness information, cholesterol screening, free children’s helmets and t-shirts, an ask-a-physician station and door prizes. Call 817-599-6222. Parkfest City of Willow Park 10/25/14 Free event includes food trucks, arts and craft booths, music by a variety of bands all day long and children’s games and activities for all ages. Additional activities are furnished by the East Parker County Genealogy and Historical Society. Event location the corner of Ranch House Rd. and Stagecoach Tr. in Willow Park. Call Josh Armstrong at 817-441-7108 or email jarmstrong@willowpark.org AmazingRace 5k Aledo United Methodist Church 10/26/14 Raises money for mission projects; held in conjunction with Trunk-or-Treat at Bearcat Park beginning at 4 p.m.

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72 2014-2015

CHRISTOPHER AMOS/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Summer Richman sings at First Friday in Aledo. Call Chris Dorrell at 817-441-8329 or email chris@aledoumc.org Bag Lady Luncheon Parker County Committee on Aging 10/30/14 Annual event includes a speaker and silent auction with designer and vintage purses. Call 817-596-4640, visit the Senior Center at 1225 Holland Lake Road in Weatherford, or email pccoa@swbell.net.

Business Expo East Parker County Chamber of Commerce 10/30/2014 Held from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at New River Fellowship The Business Expo brings together more than 60 local businesses exhibiting their products and services. Visitors receive free goodie bags, coupons, live demonstrations and on-thespot-shopping. Plenty of food trucks will be on hand with snacks and treats. No admission fee is charged. Call 817-441-7844 or visit www.eastparkerchamber.com

Stay on top of local events! community-news.com /calendar

Your Parker County

817-441-7661 www.yourparkercounty.com

NOVEMBER Western Art Show and Sale Doss Heritage and Culture Center 11/7/14 The event includes dinner and entertainment. The art show and sale features professional artists and pieces of art attendees can go home with that evening. Tickets are $100 per person. Visit dosscenter.org or call 817-599-6168. Gift and Craft Market Trinity Christian Academy 11/8/14 TCA’s Barber Gymnasium hosts vendors from across the state who sell gifts, home décor, trendy clothes and purses, seasonal items, gourmet food, health and beauty products and more. Admission is free. Two days. Call 817-732-5815 or email GiftMarket@TCAeagles.org Coyote Chase Race Weatherford College 11-22-2014 Benefits students at Weatherford College Call Brent Baker at 817-598-6275 or e-mail bbaker@wc.edu. 5K and 1 mile Thanksgiving Trot 11/27/14 The annual run assists families in the Aledo area with medical needs. Visit aledothanksgivingtrot.com

DECEMBER Celebrity Cutting Careity Foundation Dec 5, 2014 Benefits Careity Foundation and National Cutting Horse Association Charities. Visit www.careity.org or call 817-882-4100

RANDY KECK/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

The annual Dogtoberfest features a pet costume contest. See Oct. 4. Christmas Tyme in Aledo and Arts and Crafts Fair City of Aledo 12/6/14 Annual all-day festival includes the Arts and Crafts Fair at Aledo Community Center all day, the includes the annual Christmas tree lighting, arrival of Santa, and food and drinks, entertainment and specials from merchants and churches in the downtown area. Call the City of Aledo at 817-441-7016 or visit www.aledo-texas.com.

Christmas on the Square Weatherford Chamber of Commerce 12/6/14 Annual holiday festival in Weatherford kicks off with the Christmas Parade down Main Street, then the festival with numerous children’s activities, food and drink and contests. Call 817-596-3801 or visit www.weatherford-chamber.com.

Breakfast with Santa CASA Hope for Children, Parker County 12/13/14 Pictures with Santa, goodie bags and childrens activities. Call 817-599-6224 or visit www.casaofparkercounty.com Candlelight Tour of Homes Parker County Heritage Society 12/13/14 Annual tour of historic homes. Admission is charged. Visit www.parkercountyheritagesociety.com

Ryan Mordecai | Market President (817) 598-2297

Serving Parker County since 1889 The Community News

Your Parker County

2014-2015 73

! p a r W a s ’ t Tha KATHY CHRUSCIELSKI/THE COMMUNITY NEWS

Ernie Hudson is photographed with Weatherford resident Jeff Brazzell by Aledo Mayor Kit Marshall.

w Gallows Road

wraps up filming, premiers in 2014

By Phil Major

The Community News

ledo might not be the next Hollywood, but it can now lay claim to a special place in the mind and heart of one independent film maker. “Gallows Road” debuted June 24 in Fort Worth, a year to the day after filming began in and around Aledo in the Texas heat. Locations in Weatherford, Benbrook and Fort Worth are also prominently featured in the film, which stars Ernie Hudson and Kevin Sorbo. Director Bill McAdams Jr. also wrote the script and plays one of the leading characters. Residents will see many familiar locations, including the final scene filmed in old 74 2014-2015

downtown Aledo. Residences of several principal characters were filmed in local homes. The Aledo fire station doubles as a sheriff ’s office. Shots of the new Aledo water tower and the train passing through town are among iconic images depicted. An antique shop in Weatherford and a bar in Benbrook also play prominent roles, along with rural areas around Aledo. Aledo Mayor Kit Marshall played herself at the ribbon cutting of a store Hudson’s character owns with his brother, with many locals as extras. The fire scene that results in the tragedy that is the central theme of the movie was filmed on location at the farm of Terry and Helen Hyles, who donated an old building they were planning to tear down. As of the June 24 premiere, McAdams was still working

on distribution for the film. A DVD is also planned.

alcohol – and its impact of him and his family.

Aledo became a location for the movie after McAdams’ sister, Mary Jean Bentley (who also served as producer and actor, and who lives in the area), encouraged him to check out the town.

McAdams had been sitting on the script, his first, since he wrote it in 1998 while serving as a body double for Matt Damon in “Good Will Hunting.”

Not only did he find the place he wanted to film, but he found a community that went above and beyond in helping to find locations for the various scenes – sometimes on short notice. And the use of local office space during final production. “Gallows Road” follows the journey for Hudson’s character from withdrawal to seeking revenge to finding forgiveness against those who had a hand in the murder of his family. McAdams’ character also has a journey of self-examination for his role in the deed – which he tries to dull with

Your Parker County

A chance encounter with Hudson years later at a Comic Con led to the actor, who came to prominence in “Ghost Busters,” seeing the script and agreeing to play the lead. Sorbo plays a stable owner who employs McAdams’ character despite his drinking problem, and metes out sage advice that helps lead to his own redemption. The remaining actors are all from Texas, principally the Metroplex. Not all are professional actors. The choir from Arlington’s Agape Church, for example, not only appears but performs an original song.

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