Johnson County Living Summer/Fall 2019 by RedFin

UNITED WAY TO SAVE THE DAY United Way offers a lifeline to the SOS call for seniors in distress, offering assistance to senior adults with low income and food insecurities.

THE EUGENE V. THOMSEN OBSERVATORY For those who love to study the stars and get a closer look at them, the Thomsen Observatory in Keene, Texas is the perfect place to do so!

Li’l Old House on Buffalo Street Take a tour of the oldest house in Cleburne, the Doty/ Kirkham House.

The Southwest Fort Worth areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier home builder for more than 20 years providing quality and commitment to each and every project.

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YOUR HOMETOWN REAL ESTATE EXPERT

SPECIALIZING IN JOHNSON COUNTY

Cody Lee Realtor | The Lee Team

GENUINE & HONEST. RELENTLESS WORK ETHIC. INNOVATIVE MARKETING. If you have any real estate needs, please feel free to call, text or email me. I would love to be of service in any way possible. 817.874.5385 | cody.lee@williamstrew.com | williamstrew.com

WE OFFER: • Largest GM inventory in Johnson County

• Transparency in our pricing

• A relaxing environment

• Service Loaners and shuttle when your vehicle is in Service

• Honest and up-front business

• State-of-the-art facilities

COME BY AND SEE US TODAY! 817-556-5900

www.ClassicCleburne.com

822 Walter P. Holiday Drive Cleburne, TX 76033

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ZOEY D.O.G (Director of Goodwill)

OFFICES 1647 W. Henderson Cleburne, TX. 76033 125 S Main St. Godley, TX. 76044 www.rodenrealestategroup.com

Tara Roden

Ricky Roden

Rhett Roden

817-202-7459

817-202-7458

817-202-4772

Realtor

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CONTENTS

HOME & GARDEN

GONE WITH THE WIND REMEMBERED MUSEUM

Travel back in time along the Chisholm Trail to the Gone with the Wind Remembered Museum. Once inside the museum, time stands still and Gone with the Wind comes alive with floor-to-ceiling exhibits.

L I ' L O L D H O U S E O N B U F FA LO S T R E E T

R E VO LU T I O N I Z E YO U R L I F E : S PA R K SOME JOY BY DECLUTTERING

Take a tour of the oldest house in Cleburne, the Doty/Kirkham House.

Clutter. Everyone deals with it. Inspired by a friend who has barely any clutter contaminating her home, learn how one JCL writer rids her home of un-“Joyful” belongings, and gives us a few tips we can use to “spark” your own purge.

FA I T H & CO M M U N I T Y

PAT H WAY C H U R C H

FALLING INTO FALL

Ordinary people who love an extraordinary God, allowing His love to flow through them….that is what you will find at Pathway Church in Burleson. Their purpose? To glorify God and share the love and grace of Jesus Christ with as many people as possible in various ministry opportunities.

With a new season comes a fresh slate. The first day of fall comes a new season full of unlimited and immeasurable potential.

U N I T E D WAY T O S AV E T H E D AY: JOHNSON COUNTY SOS PROGRAM FOR SENIORS

United Way of Johnson County, along with a “dream team” of other organizations, offers a lifeline to the SOS call for seniors in distress. The Johnson County Supporting Our Seniors grant offers assistance to senior adults living with low income and food insecurities.

CLEBURNE CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S JOB CORPS

The Cleburne Christian Women’s Job Corps is devoted to glorifying God by affirming and equipping women for life and work, changing the lives of women in Johnson County along the way.

DUDLEY HALL - OPULENT T H E AT R E M E E T S P R O F E S S I O N A L E N T E R TA I N M E N T I N T H E R O U N D

First-class performances in an amazing space, Dudley Hall makes elegance a family affair.

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UNITED WAY TO SAVE THE DAY United Way offers a lifeline to the SOS call for seniors in distress, offering assistance adults with low to senior income and food insecurities.

THE EUGENE V. THOMS EN OBSERVATORY

ABOUT THE COVER Th e cover ph oto is of th e oldes t h om e in Clebu rn e, th e Doty/ Kirkh a m h ou s e. Rea d a bou t th e h is tory of th e h om e on pa ge 18.

For those who love to closer look at them, study the stars and get a the Thomsen Observatory Keene, Texas is in the perfect place to do so!

Li’l Old House on Buffalo Street Take a tour of the house in Cleburne, oldest the Doty/ Kirkham House.

2020 Calendar of Events Winter Member Luncheon: The State of the City

Thurs., January 16

Power of Heles Luncheon—Time Management

Friday, January 24

Annual Awards Luncheon

Thurs., February 20

Full Circle Women’s Conference

April 2 - 3

Spring Member Luncheon: The State of Education

Thurs., April 16

22nd Annual Honey Tour Bike Ride

Sat., May 16

BISD New Employee Welcome Luncheon

TBD

Power of Heels Networking Brunch

Thurs., July 16

Fall Member Luncheon

Thurs., October 15

Taste of Burleson

TBD

Power of Heels Holiday Bazaar

Sat., November 7

* Business After Hours Scheduled for 2nd Tuesday of Each Month from 5:30pm—7:00pm ** For Sponsorship Opportunities or for more information please contact the Burleson Area Chamber of Commerce 1044 SW Wilshire Blvd Burleson, TX 76028 Phone: (817) 295-6121 www.burlesonchamber.com

Office Hours Mon - Thurs. 8:00am - 5:00pm Friday 8:00am - 12:00pm Sat. - Sun. Closed

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CONTENTS H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

M O B I L E H E A LT H S E R V I C E S — OFFERING OPTIONS FOR CARE

The Mobile Health Services Bus works with school districts in Johnson County to be available for easy to access immunization services for all kids, as well as provides a resource to students without health insurance.

SPORTS PHYSICALS: THE REASONING BEHIND

The required school sports physical exam can prove invaluable in diagnosing hidden disease.

H E A LT H Y R E C I P E S : L U N C H B O X U P G R A D E

Ditch the same old sandwiches for these upgraded recipes sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

E D U C AT I O N

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR A BETTER BACK TO SCHOOL

A small gift can mean a lot to a teacher as your kiddos get back in the routine of back to school, don’t forget that your teachers are in the same boat and may need a little encouragement that first week themselves!

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THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX: RESOURCES OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM

Thinking outside of the classroom-what can a school counselor do for your student to ensure their success-both inside and out of the classroom.

T R AV E L A N D O U T D O O R S

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FALL OF PLENTY

Remind? Seesaw? Dojo? What are these words your kids’ teachers are saying? There is a whole slew of smartphone apps to help you keep up with what is going on in the classroom.

Most landscape professionals will agree that having a plan is your first course of action-planning with the end goal in mind. This includes assessing what you currently have and what you want to have for fall and winter.

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TA K E T H E T R I P ! ( B U T P L A N I T C A R E F U L LY ! )

T H E R E ’ S A N A P P F O R T H AT…

CLEBURNE HIGH SCHOOL—A NEW BEGINNING

The new Cleburne High School has both the features and “feel” of a junior college. With lots of natural light designed for collaborative learning, a two-level cafeteria, and new athletic facilities, it is designed with the interest of the student at heart.

Organizing a trip can be daunting, but the process is made easier by investing some times and energy into planning and preparation. Keep in mind some simple tips to ensure the maximum enjoyment of the trip!

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HILL COLLEGE STUDENT SUCCESS SPOTLIGHT: ANGELA TROMPLER

Expecting to go to a university on a softball scholarship when an injury sidelined her plan, Angela Trompler gave Hill College a shot until she “figured it out”….little did she know, Hill College was able to offer her dream of a nursing degree and keep her close to her home and work.

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T H E E U G E N E V. T H O M S E N O B S E RVAT O RY

For as long as our great state has existed, people have stared into our wide skies and marveled at the beauty that lay beyond our world. And for those who love to study the stars and get a closer look at them, the Thomsen Observatory, located at Southwest Adventist University in Keene, Texas, is the perfect place to do so.

Hill College Continuing Education offers the training that results in personal and professional enrichment.

Healthcare Programs Nurse Aide Pharmacy Technician Medical Assistant Phlebotomy Technician Massage Therapist

For more information contact: 817.760.5820 | ceinfo@hillcollege.edu

www.hillcollege/continuingeducation H O MET O W N L I V I NG A T ITS B EST

FROM THE PUBLISHER

PUBLISHER

Red Fin Publishing

Justin & Hayley Six Kyle & Halsey Clark

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Justin Six

CREATIVE | DESIGN

GreenFox Marketing

CONTENT COORDINATOR Jennifer Cabbage Jennifer.RedFin@gmail.com

ere we are again, saying goodbye to the end of summer. And although goodbyes are never easy, new beginnings can be so sweet. As we wrap up our first full year in Johnson County, we look back over the people we have met and the stories we have been able to share with you, the lucky ones to live among the greatness these folks bring to your lives. Whether you are beginning a new school year, new chapter in life, new career or just a new day—opportunity is waiting right around the corner. You can read about the Cleburne Christian Women’s Job Corps as they prepare women for their new beginnings, with training sessions to help women enter their next phase of life. Beginning a new school year? We have some fantastic tips and tricks to start the year off, as well as an insight to resources that are available in your schools that you may not know exist. Teacher sent home a note about a new app to use? Our quick guide may give you some clarity on what they are sharing with you. Also, take a tour of Cleburne’s new high school and all the technology offered to these fortunate students. Take a tour of the new theater in downtown, Dudley Hall presents an intimate experience to transport you in theater magic. Also, check out the Gone with the Wind museum and be taken back in time to your favorite movie plantation, seeing many original pieces from the movie, and a fabulous collection of all things Tara. As always, we want to thank our advertisers for making this publication possible and free to the community! Help us express our gratitude by shopping local and visiting their establishments to pick up your complimentary copy. This publication is about you! Please feel free to email us photos of your events to add to our Hometown Happenings, or any stories you would like to read in the next issue. We would love to hear from you! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for up-to-date events, announcements, and important information about Johnson County you don’t want to miss! We give thanks to God for our many blessings and look forward to a great year to come!  Until the next edition, wishing you many blessings-

Justin and Hayley Six Kyle and Halsey Clark

“Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.” Isaiah 60:1

JOHNSON COUNTY LIVING MAGAZINE RED FIN PUBLISHING

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Jordan Murdock Jordan.RedFin@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA CHAIR Nikki Garrett

PROOF READER Jennifer Cabbage

PHOTOGRAPHERS DCollins Photography

Eric Priddy Photography Mallory Alyson Photography Steve Keefer Art Photography Whitney Chilton Photography COVER PHOTO

Photo by DCollins Photography

SALES Nikki Garrett Bruce Racioppa

CONTRIBUTING

Lindsay L. Allen

WRITERS Larue Barnes Robin Demott Charles Franklin Peggy Purser Freeman Janette Halliday Martha Helton Connie Leonard Heather Regula CONTRIBUTORS Cleburne ISD Enviroscapes Nursery & Landscaping Hill College Texas Health Huguley

Johnson County Living© is published biannually by Red Fin Publishing.

WWW.REDFINPUBLISH IN G .COM P.O. Box 1239 | Weatherford, TX 76086 (817) 301-3828 All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice.

Come see us at one of our conveniently located Dallas-Fort Worth area offices (Addison, Arlington, Cleburne, Fort Worth and Plano) Visit us online at OPTIMALDFW.COM | Call us at 817-558-4600

Dr. Michael Phillips was the first doctor in Dallas Fort Worth to perform Autologous intradiscal stem cell (BMAC) injections for lumbar disc disease and also the first to perform cervical spine intradiscal stem cell injections. He was the first doctor to implant the Medtronic MRI compatible Spinal Cord Stimulator system in the North Texas region and the first doctor in Texas to ever implant a gold-plated Medtronic Stimulator system for a patient with a Titanium allergy. Dr. Phillips was the first doctor in the North Texas region and second in Texas to implant the St. Jude/Abbott Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) stimulator system for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. He was also one of the 1st 50 doctors in the country to be trained on and implant the Superion Vertiflex indirect decompression spacer device for lumbar spinal stenosis.

Dr. Tibor Racz completed a fellowship under the tutelage of his father, Dr. Gabor Racz, who is an internationally recognized specialist in the sub-specialty of pain management. Dr. Racz has a special interest in neuromodulation for pain and intrathecal pump therapy for both pain and spasticity. He is board certified in both anesthesiology and pain medicine. Dr. Racz looks at the most difficult patient cases as opportunities, not challenges. He is committed to helping patients navigate through pain to improve functionality and livelihood with cutting-edge medical care and exceptional service.

Dr. Scott Berlin opened and developed the pain management clinic at Methodist Medical Center in Dallas. He was the first practitioner in Dallas to implant a fully implantable dual lead spinal cord stimulator system, which has now become the standard of care. He continues to offer state-ofthe-art solutions for unusual and difficult painful diseases. Dr. Berlin is board certified in anesthesiology and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pain Medicine.

Upon moving to the Dallas area, Dr. Andrew Cottingham performed all varieties of anesthesia including pediatric, neurosurgical, cardiac, vascular, orthopedic, otolaryngology and obstetric. He has been the Director of the Post Anesthesia Care Unit at a major teaching hospital and the Medical Director of a surgery center in the Dallas area. He is board certified in anesthesiology and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pain Medicine. Dr. Cottingham has been providing cutting-edge therapies around the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex since 1996.

IS REGENERATIVE MEDICINE THERAPY AN OPTION FOR YOU?

“Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God is near you.’ “ -Luke 10:9

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HOME & GARDEN

GONE WITH THE WIND

Remembered Museum By Connie Lewis Leonard Photos by Eric Priddy Photography

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ravel back in time along the Chisholm Trail to the Gone with the Wind Remembered Museum in Cleburne, Texas. The three brilliant murals painted on the outside of the building transport visitors to the beauty of an Atlanta garden in all its glory, the tragic burning of Atlanta and the larger-thanlife characters of the classic Civil War saga. The entrance of the museum is a replica of the front door of Tara with silhouettes of Rhett Butler and Scarlett Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara. Once inside the museum, time stands still and Gone with the Wind comes alive with floor-to-ceiling exhibits.

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The eternal love story of Gone with the Wind captures the hearts of generations. A coming of age historical romance, Vicky Lynn Rogers read the novel in high school and fell in love with Margaret Mitchell. The theme of survival and perseverance from a woman’s point of view resonated with Vicky. She collected one doll and continued to build her collection to preserve the memory of the beloved book. In 1978, Vicky met Mike Rogers through a mutual friend. At first, she became friends with the dashingly handsome young lawyer. As the friendship grew, Mike proved to be a perfect southern gentleman, and she knew she had met her Rhett Butler. After thirty-eight years of marriage, five children, and four grandchildren, the couple is still very much in love. Mike, who is a successful lawyer, has expressed his love for his wife over the years with Gone with the Wind gift items for Christmas, birthdays and anniversaries. In the early days, Vicky collected memorabilia from flea markets and antique malls. The onset of the internet expanded her search and acquisitions. However, the most treasured items came from auction houses such as Christie’s, Heritage, Profiles in History and Julien’s.

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The doll collection is Vicky’s favorite part of the collection. With over 650 dolls, she has one of the largest collections of Gone with the Wind dolls in the world. Many of the Madame Alexander dolls wear authentic costume replicas from the movie. Other dolls are made by various doll makers, including some simple, hand-made dolls. She is still “on the hunt” for the few documented dolls that were ever made that are missing from her collection. Museum memorabilia includes a theater seat from the premier of GWTW in the Atlanta Loew’s Theatre, tickets from the event, and a telegram from Vivien Leigh. Original costumes from the movie include the Ona Munson jacket and muff, which was costume designer Walter Plunker’s favorite, and the hand-knit, maroon-trim grey wool sweater worn by Olivia de Havilland as Melanie. Also on display is a professionally commissioned replica of the dress worn by Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O’Hara in the barbeque scene and a replica of Scarlett O’Hara’s wedding dress, which was marketed and sold in 1940. The display also includes rare jewelry pieces sold as marketing and promotion items. Vicky said, “The mourning bonnet worn by Vivien Leigh is by far the jewel of the collection.”

SINCE THE OPENING IN JULY OF 2014, OVER FIVE THOUSAND VISITORS HAVE PASSED THROUGH THE DOORS.

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The museum plays tribute to Margaret Mitchell, who began writing the novel in 1926 while recuperating from a broken ankle. New York publisher Macmillan offered her a $500 advance and ten percent royalty payments, requiring some revisions, name changes and a new title. Published in 1936, Gone with the Wind won the Pulitzer Prize for Literature in 1937. The film debuted three years later, winning ten academy awards and, considering inflation, is one of the top grossing films of all time. Although Mitchell had been an avid journalist, GWTW was her only novel. During World War II, she worked for the American Red Cross, and on August 11, 1949, she was struck by a car on her way to the theater and died five days later. Mitchell’s memory lives on through her novel. More than thirty million copies of Gone with the Wind have been sold worldwide, and it has been translated into forty-three languages in fifty-three countries. The display of books in different languages with various cover designs fascinate and intrigue visitors. Vicky also has an autographed first edition copy of Gone with the Wind. As Vicky’s collection expanded, she decided to open a museum to share her love of everything GWTW. She and her husband converted the former Givens Grocery Store on East Second Street into the state of the art, climate controlled, specially lighted 3,000-square-foot nonprofit museum. Since the opening in July of 2014, over five thousand visitors have passed through the doors. The museum has been featured in newspapers, “Good Morning Texas” and other TV programs.

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WITH OVER 650 DOLLS, VICKY HAS ONE OF THE LARGEST COLLECTIONS OF GONE WITH THE WIND DOLLS IN THE WORLD.

The museum appeals to the entire family. In addition to the costumes, dolls, books and posters, the museum showcases Civil War letters and documents signed by Abraham Lincoln, Jefferson Davis, and Confederate General Patrick Cleburne, for whom the town is named. Vicky said, “I have various military weapons that were actually used in the Civil War.” While strolling through the museum, visitors can take a break to watch a short video about the making of the movie and another one about Margaret Mitchell’s life. A documentary plays continuously in the small theatre. Vicky spent years visiting museums and building relationships with other collectors and “Windy” fanatics. She is grateful she got to meet some of the original cast members and experts before they died, including Cammie King, who played Bonnie Blue Butler; Ann Rutherford, who played Scarlet’s sister Careen; and Fred Crane, who played Stuart Tarleton, Scarlet’s beau. In 2005, Vicky enjoyed a brief introduction to Olivia de Havilland at an awards ceremony in Hollywood. Through the years, Vicky has become good friends with Mickey Kuhn, who played Melanie and Ashley Wilkes’ son, Beau. Kuhn participated in the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Gone with the Wind Remembered Museum and the Gathering House. Kuhn and de Havilland, who just turned 103, are the only two surviving members of the cast. Visitors might want to set aside an entire day to view the vast offerings of the museum, taking a lunch break to process and absorb the beauty and knowledge presented. A tour of the museum is not complete without a visit to the gift shop, where hundreds of GWTW items are available. Dolls, figurines, books, key chains, magnets, t-shirts, artwork, and many other vintage and new products may be purchased. May the souvenirs help visitors share the memories and love of all things Gone with the Wind with the next generation and beyond. JCL

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HOME & GARDEN

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Liâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Old House on

Buffalo Street by Peggy Purser Freeman Photos by DCollins Photography

Take a tour of the oldest house in Cleburne, The Doty/ Kirkham House.

n the mid-1800s, soldiers rode from Fort Belknap to Fort Graham, down the old wagon trail, and slid off their horses at the watering stop. Others rode in on the stagecoach. All stopped at Buffalo Creek. The lush flora and cool spring water lured many a traveler to linger, enjoy a slower pace and stay to build a home, a life.

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A second cousin of T.P. Kirkham, Wilma Reed, serves as a member of the Johnson County Historical Commission and Save Old Cleburne. Recently, she shared the history of the Lil’ Old House, “Officially, it is known as the Kirkham/Doty House— the Lil’ Old House on Buffalo Street is a name many people have called it over the years. It is believed to be the oldest house in Cleburne, built between 1872 and 1880.” “The single story, white clapboard, Southern Colonial cottage is a favorite on the tour of historic homes in the area,” Mrs. Reed added. “Professor W.B. Featherston came to Cleburne in 1872 to be in charge of the Cleburne Male and Female Institute, established by the Alvarado Baptist Association, Professor Featherston built the home for his sister, Elizabeth Pat Featherston Doty, also known as Aunt Pat Doty.”

During the War Between the States, this location became a bivouac for Johnson County units, known as Camp Henderson. This temporary facility became a permanent settlement on March 23, 1867, and a new, centrally located county seat. The land originally deeded to Christopher Channy was transferred to Colonel B.J. Chambers, the father of Cleburne in1867. Then it was divided into town lots to be sold. Soon a post office popped up in a corner of the general store. The first edition of the Cleburne Chronicle rolled off the press on November 7, 1868 and commented on the rapid growth of Cleburne. During this time period the railroad arrived, and by 1870 the population grew to 683. Footbridges soon spanned Buffalo Creek so folks could meander over to enjoy ice cream socials at the 1871 Episcopal Church. Sweethearts strolled down Henderson and Main Streets to buy penny candy and browse the latest merchandise in the store windows. At that time Buffalo Street was the “road into town”. The Lil’ Old House at 409 Buffalo Street was built within “watertotin” distance of the creek, and not far from the town’s public well.

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Shaded with old, large sycamore trees that are not native to this particular region, this charming cottage home faces the east. The sycamore trees on the lot where the house still stands are the biggest on the block. The floorplan consists of two rooms with fireplaces on either side of the central hall. Early in the 1900s, two wings existed behind each front room. These had been altered, but even the alterations were done with square nails. Mr. and Mrs. Lige Lockett, ages 87 and 83, lived next door to the Lilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Old House for sixty-five years. Mr. Lockett is related to the Featherstons and to Aunt Pat Doty. In an interview, the Locketts said they remembered a time when only three houses stood on Buffalo Street. At that time Buffalo Creek ran a half block from the house into downtown Cleburne. The house had been there as long as they could remember. It was quite a gathering place for social events when they were very young. They even remembered the footbridges that reached across Buffalo Creek. They said the house looked exactly as it did then. According to Mr. Lockett the Lilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Old House withstood the great flood of 1888. He continued to tell the story of his Uncle Will. The story goes that Will Lockett rode into the flood waters and rescued a young lady stranded in a tree.

The single story, white clapboard, Southern Colonial cottage is a favorite on the tour of historic homes in the area.

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The 1913 city directory shows Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Pierce Kirkham living in the house. Linda Ball shared her memories of living there with her mother, grandmother and step-grandfather T.P. Kirkham. T.P. added the stone house in the back yard and used it in his business as a hatter. “My grandmother, Elizabeth (Bessie), and Thomas were once young sweethearts,” Mrs. Ball explained. “T.P. and Mrs. Bessie argued and went their separate ways. Both married someone else and both lost their mates. My biological Grandfather Jennings died several months before my mother was born. When T.P. discovered Bessie was also a widow, he searched and found her living in Waco. They married when my mother was two.” Mrs. Ball continued, “The family said he had kept a picture of her as a youth. I grew up thinking of T.P. as my grandfather. Then when my Grandmother Bessie became ill my father was in the service, so my mother and I lived there and helped. My grandmother died one month and mom, father and I had a car crash the next month. My father died, so we lived in the house on Buffalo Street with my step-

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grandfather Kirkham until my mother remarried. It provided wonderful memories, like the swing in the big pecan tree in the back. My mother inherited the house and we lived there while I was in school. My mom was proud the house received the historical status.” In 1965, Mrs. Tommie Kimbro heard that the house might be torn down. Mrs. Kimbro served as chairman of the Johnson County Historical Survey Committee in 1966. She gathered the history to apply for the location’s historical marker and she and the members of various historical groups worked to restore the structure. Mr. Joe Lyons, the consulting architect, and Mrs. Kimbro believed the house originally had only two front rooms with the porch across the back. And they felt that the two wings were added in the late 1870s. “The location of this house justifies its age,” Mrs. Kimbro wrote in her report. “I intend to furnish it with ordinary furniture of the period. So people can remember when water was drawn out of the well, before electricity and heating, etc.” Mrs. Kimbro convinced the mayor and city council that saving the Doty/Kirkham house was the way to celebrate Cleburne‘s 100th birthday in 1967.

Today Cleburne’s Lil’ Old House on Buffalo Street stands as an icon to the past and a gift to the future. The city of Cleburne purchased this house and leased it back to the committee to restore it as much as possible back to the period. At that time the south wing was removed. They rebuilt the back porch and covered the hand-dug well they found in the process and created a garden in that space. The city directory shows Mr. and Mrs. T.P. Kirkham living in the house in 1913. Today Cleburne’s Lil’ Old House on Buffalo Street stands as an icon to the past and a gift to the future. The time and talents of the citizens of Cleburne, those who have a passion to preserve history have given a glimpse of the early days of Cleburne to future generations. Opened several times a year, this home is especially charming at Christmastime and highlights the Christmas Tour of Homes. Save Old Cleburne and the Johnson County Historical Commission use the house for meetings and special events. For more information call 817 556 6970. Johnson County Historical Museum. Find the guide to a driving tour of Cleburne’s amazing historic homes at Cleburne Chamber of Commerce. JCL

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HOME & GARDEN

Revolutionize Your Life: S pa r k So m e Joy by D e c l u t t e r i n g By Martha Helton

just had a secret fantasy fulfilled. While having our roof repaired, we had one of those huge dumpsters set in our driveway as a receptacle for roof debris. The big magical question we asked our contractor: “Can we throw away some of our stuff?” He invited us “to have at it.” I gleefully raced through the house gathering heavy junk--an old vacuum, old crutches that we “might” use again someday, boxes of books that would bring less than $10 at Half Price books (it costs more in gas to get there!), old scraps of lumber, etc. I heaved and shoved over the top. Items fell blissfully out of sight and mind. My next-door neighbor got inspired so I let her “have at it” as well. Wow! Talk about relief! According to www. homeadvisor.com, the average price for fulfilling a dumpster rental dream is $395. Yes, a little pricey but perhaps you can have a block party where everyone flings their large garbage items together, making the dumpster rental more affordable. Lol. Clutter. Everyone deals with it. The thing that bugs me about living with clutter is that I’m so busy

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reshuffling my clutter around or hunting down something that it prevents me from accomplishing more noble causes outside of my home. I’m inspired by a couple who barely have any tchotchkes cluttering any surface in their house. The few items they do display have personal significance. Talk about easy breezy clean up! The husband retired last year and they have filled their lives with ministry opportunities and are about to embark on a grand adventure, hiking the Appalachian Trail for six months. They are free to invest themselves outside their home because they aren’t stuck at home, endlessly dusting and shuffling all their tchotchkes. In the hit Netflix series, Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, Kondo shares a unique way of looking at decluttering. The KonMari Method™ (named for Marie Kondo) is a state of mind – and a way of life – that encourages cherishing the things that spark joy in one's life. She instructs you to place your belongings in your hands, one at a time, and ask if it sparks joy. If it does, keep it. If the item does not spark joy, get rid of it.

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Belongings are acknowledged for their service – and thanked before being let go--should they no longer spark joy. According to Kondo, possessions are stripped of their dignity when they go unused at home. Then when you have only your most joy-giving belongings picked out, put every item in a place that is visible, accessible and easy to grab. And in so doing, there will be more space for you to do the things you love surrounded by the possessions you adore. Because it is such a unique way of decluttering, I’ll share five tips for using the KonMari Method of organizing (taken from www.livible.com/blog/ultimatekonmari-guide):

1 . Ti dy All at O n ce

Instead of cleaning one room a day, devote an entire day (or weekend) to tidying up. If you only tidy one room at a time over an extended period of time, it will wind up

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getting messy again in a matter of a few weeks or months. This might sound a bit daunting. Not all of us have the time or the will to tackle our homes all in one go. Fret not! The lovely Marie Kondo counsels doing what you can if you can’t do it all in one day.

2. Visualize th e Desti nati o n

Before you throw things out, visualize what you want your ideal lifestyle to be. Having concrete goals such as “I want to live like a Goddess, surrounded by beauty and harmony” is much better than “I want to live in a clean house”. Or like my retired friends, their ideal lifestyle might be, “We want to streamline things comfortably and efficiently, so that we are free to invest in life-enriching endeavors.” KonMari teaches that by thinking in such concrete terms, you can more accurately visualize the home and lifestyle you wish to have.

5. Ti dy i n O rder

Kondo has come up with the ideal order in which you should tidy up: • Clothes • Books • Papers • Kimono (miscellaneous stuff) • Sentimental You can then separate everything out from each category into sub-categories which will make the process even easier. For example, the category “Clothes” could be sub-divided seasonally. Creating your own subcategories makes it easier to visualize what you have, what you need, and what does or doesn’t bring you joy.

3. Determine if the Item "Sparks Joy”

Marie Kondo’s lessons show that in focusing on what does not make you happy, you’re only inviting unhappiness into your life. If you look around your home and dwell on those items you can’t stand, you’re just generating more negativity. Instead, teaches Kondo, you should focus on what you love. By highlighting the items that bring you joy, the unenjoyed falls to the wayside. At the same time, by focusing your energy so positively on such joyful items, you are creating more happiness in your life. Sounds pretty great, right? When assessing whether an item brings joy or not, there’s no need to bring any “rational thinking” into the mix at this stage. You need to feel the item. Use your emotions and feelings to make a determination as to whether or not you’re going to keep something.

If you find it hard to get rid of some items as the KonMari method instructs you, you aren’t alone! Although the method is a great guide to help you declutter, you don’t have to follow it to the letter. You can always store things, in your home or in a nearby storage facility, that you think might bring joy in the future. For instance, if your toddler doesn’t need his crib anymore, you may need the crib if you plan to have more kids in your future so storing it makes sense. For more detailed information about the KonMari Method, you can watch the Netflix series, Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, or you can order her book, The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up and her follow-up book Spark Joy: An Illustrated Master Class on the Art of Organizing and Tidying Up. The follow-up book is an illustrated guide with stepby-step folding illustrations for everything from shirts to socks, plus drawings of perfectly organized drawers and closets. Also included is advice on frequently asked questions. Don’t want to buy any books? Check out Marie Kondo or KonMari on www.youtube.com. Go forth and spark some decluttering joy! JCL

4 . Ti dy by Catego ry, Not Lo cati o n

Most people store items that fall into the same “category” in various locations. For example, you probably have clothes in your closet, under your bed and in your dresser. So instead of tackling a closet or a dresser, tackle your clothes first. Locate every single piece of clothing you have and lay it out on your living room floor. Then, individually handle each clothing item to determine to keep or not to keep. Kondo has specific ways to fold clothes and store them in your home for neatness and accessibility. Check out Kondo’s book, Spark Joy: An Illustrated Master Class on the Art of Organizing and Tidying Up to see illustrations of her techniques.

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By Connie Lewis Leonard Photos by Mallory Alyson Photography and Provided by Pathway Church

“By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” - John 13:35, ESV

athway Church is a group of ordinary people who love an extraordinary God and allow His love to flow through them within the church family and throughout the community. Their purpose is to glorify God and share the love and grace of Jesus Christ with as many people as possible in various ministry opportunities. Christianity isn’t about a church building. Christianity comes from a personal relationship with Christ and following His example of relational evangelism, reaching out to people where they are, loving them, meeting their spiritual, emotional, and physical needs. As a Christian of fifty-six years, the niece of a pastor, the daughter-inlaw of a pastor, and the wife of a pastor for forty-three years, I have experienced “church” up close and personal, the beautiful and the ugly. Looking from the outside in, Pathway Church is a shining light, fulfilling the Great Commission to go into a hurting world and share the love and light of the gospel of Christ.

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Pathway people serve as the hands and feet of Christ through The Community Gardens. Almost two million dollars raised through the annual Birthday Gift to Jesus provides fresh produce for people within their own backyard. Servant volunteers prepare the beds, plant and harvest the vegetables. Others pick, weigh, bag and tag the harvest. The area also serves as a teaching ground for those who wish to learn about gardening. Thus far in 2019, 165 pounds of bounty have been donated to Promises and Harvest House. More recently, picnic tables have been added to allow neighbors to come and gather. Local schools also have a place to come and tell the stories of the value of farming and how the needs of local families are being met within the community. Coming in 2020, a Prayer Garden will be added along with a wailing wall, a place where burdens are shared and released by leaving behind of a piece of paper tucked in a crevasse of the wall. Intentional seating will allow for solitude, reflection, and prayer, a much needed respite from the stress and pressures of life.

Pathway partners with Promises through the Red Bag program to support a local initiative to meet the needs of families who are food insecure. Through June, the summer “Kids Eat Free” program has served forty-seven households and 134 kids. The Red Bag program targets food and miscellaneous needs throughout the year in support of the following missions: Kids Eat Free; Pac Min with backpacks designed to meet the nutritional needs of kids on the weekends (as identified by BISD School Counselors); Senior Share, which helps meet the needs of seniors in the community that are having to choose between medical needs or food. In 2015, Pathway transitioned from VBS to Family Camp, which has proven a huge success. Upon arrival, families enjoy a meal together prepared and served by the church culinary team. During dinner, families participate in a mission moment before breaking into smaller groups. This year included an undergarment drive. Preschoolers and Elementary children have worship tailored to meet them developmentally, and the student group thrives in serving roles that help them discover how they are part of God’s big story. While children and students participate in worship and activities, parents hear from Jonathan McKee on “How to Parent the SmartPhone Generation.” A mobile ‘Parent Center’ helps equip parents to have intentional conversations in the home during the next year.

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Pathway people serve as the hands and feet of Christ through The Community Gardens. The Family Ministry Team says, “The last night together is ALL ABOUT FUN, because we understand that our children may not remember everything we say, but they will definitely remember how we made them feel. It is a beautiful sight to see how circles have widened on that last day! Figuring out our faith will have its natural challenges, so we try to make sure to plan fun during strategic times when families have a moment to relax and let us serve them.” The student ministry is busting at the seams. The growth of student ministry is all about relationships through small groups, which give students a place to belong. The small group leaders are the everyday heroes who show up in the lives of students and share the love of Jesus with every student who walks through the doors. It is a fun place to worship, have fun, and grow. Pathway is reclaiming the spaces to make room for the growth that has occurred and is yet to come, because they value students and their role in the community.

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God continues to open doors for the Pathway Church Prison Ministry. The dedicated team of men and women currently minister to more than 100 inmates in ten different units throughout the state of Texas. They give God the glory for opportunities to communicate regularly with inmates through handwritten letters and cards and personal visits. Pathway has been approved at three different units to send in and/or drop off donations such as Bibles, church brochures and DVD’s of sermons. They have also been able to contribute instruments such as guitars, banjos, mandolins and accessories for the units’ worship bands. In addition to this ongoing opportunity to serve, the congregation provided Christmas gifts for sixty-five families this past December. Parents who are incarcerated still love their children, and gifts provided by the church in the name of the parent helps communicate that love. True Worth Place provides another opportunity to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus. A place of refuge for the homeless population in the area, the doors open seven days a week for those that find nightly refuge at the Presbyterian Night Shelter, those that call their cars home and for those that call the streets of Fort Worth their home. At True Worth Place, many needed resources for the homeless can be found at one location, including a JPS clinic. In 2018, Pathway began a simulcast worship service at the True Worth Place facility with one thing in mind— let’s meet people where they are by sharing a cup of coffee. As a result of consistent service and commitment, 30-40 people faithfully attend worship. Many, who are now regulars, have found a place of refuge and a place where they can give back. Through the simulcast service, which is open to the public, anyone can worship and/or join in the studying of God’s word. Men’s and women’s Bible studies are offered throughout the week as well. The design of Pathway ministry is based on the command of Matthew 22:37-39 to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Because of their faithfulness, God is doing amazing things at Pathway. The humble ministry staff members I spoke with are quick to give all glory to God. They don’t feel like they are in competition with any other church and are willing to share what they have tried that worked, didn’t work, and how God showed up in the middle of it. Their ministry ideas are God’s ideas, based on His Word, and they are honored to have a part in furthering the Kingdom of God along with all the other great churches in Johnson County. JCL

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Falling Into Fall By: Heather Regula

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easons, temporal landmarks that subtly influence us, provide structure to the year and assuage the passage of time. With a new season comes a fresh slate. This year, the first day of fall is Sunday, September 22 and with it comes a new season full of unlimited and immeasurable potential. A new leaf turns over as the Summer 2019 chapter of our lives comes to an end, and fall begins. The arrival of fall serves as reassurance that we have survived yet another Texas summer and that more temperate weather conditions are on the way. The weather can be fickle but hang in there—fall weather is the best, and it's just about time to start layering our clothes so we can handle the temperature variances during the day! Cooler temperatures give our air conditioners a muchneeded break and the smell of the first fireplace fires of the year serves as an olfactory reminder that fall is upon us! The feel of the air and the clouds will be changing, leaves will start to fall, and pumpkin spice everything will be in abundance before you know it. For many of us, the arrival of fall is marked by the return of primetime television shows in September. Netflix usage will likely decrease as we tune in weekly to follow the past and present chronicles of the Pearson family in "This is Us”. The return of other new hit shows such as "Bull," "Young Sheldon," and "The Good Doctor" will make fans everywhere ecstatic. The one thing that screams "FALL" louder than anything else and is the return of football—regardless of whether it's enjoyed at the high school, college, or professional level. Football, an intricate team sport, involves carefully scripted plays, with each player playing a specific role. Texas just might be the high school football capital of the world. High school football is Americana at its finest. Traditions run strong, and rivalries are intense. Football games in the fall are a community event where the love of the sport and team loyalty reign above all else. Frenzied fans pack the stands for every game, regardless of the weather or the outcome! Each game is like the first game—a chance to claim victory and advance along in the playoffs.

My oldest daughter, a saxophone player in the marching band, tells me that high school football isn't just a game—It's a way of life. There is nothing, and I mean nothing, more incredible than being a part of Friday Night Lights in any town in Texas—this transcends to Thursday Night Lights or any game, any time. Nothing compares to the experience of high school football here! I grew up overseas, and my travels afforded me the opportunity to experience autumn in many different countries all over the world. Texas has been my home for over 20 years, and one thing is sure—there is nothing like fall in the Lone Star State! Here's to a new season, in life and on the field, to new opportunities and renewed chances to live well and make each day count. God bless you and yours! Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. - Psalm 107:1 JCL

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United Way to Save the Day

Johnson County

S.O.S. PROGRAM FOR SENIORS

By Robin DeMott and Kira Brandt Photos by Steve Keefer Photography and Provided by Hill College

SOS [,esō'es] NOUN • an international code signal of extreme distress, used especially by ships at sea. "they put out an SOS that they were on fire" • an urgent appeal for help. "I'd thought of phoning a desperate SOS to James" • BRITISH a message broadcast to an untraceable person in an emergency.

he United Way of Johnson County is directed by Aly Engstrom. If you haven’t met her yet, she is a force to be reckoned with. She found her way back home to Johnson County in 1996 and moved back in with her dad. After just a week-long stint working at a big law firm in Dallas, she was offered a full-time job and big salary, but turned down a big salary. “No one there got along or liked each other and I was not willing to work for any place like that for any amount of money,” said Aly. “You cannot pay me to work in a negative environment.”

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so when the opportunity to apply for a grant designed When she got home and told her dad, he told to impact communities in Texas through Texas Health herWalmart was hiring as a joke. Aly didn’t take it as Resources (THR) Community Health Improvement a joke, she drove straight to Walmart and applied. “I (CHI) Department for programs presented itself, she didn’t put on the application that I even had a master’s pulled her “dream team” together and went for it. degree,” said Aly. She was immediately hired as a cashier. The “dream team” as Aly refers to it includes four “I was the very worst cashier in the world. Even though partners: The United Way I was a terrible cashier I of Johnson County, Keene was helping people. I was Seventh Day Adventist Church, giving parenting advice, The dream team partnered East Cleburne Community marriage counseling, you to author a grant proposal Center and H.O.P.E Clinic. name it. The management The JCSOS program would try to get customers for $300,000 through includes Aly as the executive to go to other cashier lines, THRCHI titled, “Johnson director of the United Way but they didn’t want to, County Supporting Our of Johnson County, Barbara they wanted to go through Yoder as the JCSOS project my line and wanted my Seniors (JCSOS).” manager and Jean Pickett as the help and advice. That job Executive Director of the East helped me get to know Cleburne Community Center everyone in town.” (ECCC). Keene Seventh Day Adventist Church Senior Aly has always been a servant leader. While serving Pastor James Winegardner, Pastor of Administration on the board of directors of the Johnson County United Rick Weaver and Pastor of Visitation and Health Tony Way and the selection committee for the executive Torres, M.D. are on the team, as well as, H.O.P.E. Clinic director, she eventually put her own name in the running President Mark White, M.D., and Executive Director for the position. Diane Westcott. She knows just about everyone in Johnson County,

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The other collaborating partners include: Johnson County Hunger Coalition via Tarrant Area Food Bank, P.E.A.R.L.S. (a program from the University of Washington), Operation Blessing (RX Plus Prescription Program), Southwestern Adventist University’s Psychology and Counseling Departments, Hill College’s Psychology and Social Work Departments and Meals on Wheels of Johnson and Ellis Counties. The dream team partnered to author a grant proposal for $300,000 through THRCHI titled, “Johnson County Supporting Our Seniors (JCSOS).” The grant is for programs and services for senior citizens of Keene and East Cleburne who are low income and food insecure. East Cleburne and Keene are two of 16 zip codes in Texas that were selected by local THCI Leadership Councils. The cross-sector collaborative programs were evaluated to address behavioral health issues, including depression, social isolation and resiliency, as well as social determinants such as food insecurity, access to health services and/or transportation.

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Aly was notified in March that the proposal had been selected to receive the grant, and by July the JCSOS program was officially kicked off. JCSOS will run for 18 months. “The idea is that we execute the programs and services so they are replicable and sustainable,” says Aly. JCSOS assists seniors with finding jobs, medical and dental benefits and funds Senior Share, which is a farmto-market program where seniors can receive up to 35 pounds of produce at no cost. Free cooking classes are available to learn about nutrition and cooking for one or two. The JCSOS program is the SOS for Keene and East Cleburne; one of the goals of the program is to decrease depression and food insecurity. Johnson County has the highest suicide rate for people over 55 in the state of Texas. Another goal of the program is to maximize the impact of initiatives addressing behavioral health to decrease depression by one stage of severity among low-income individuals ages 55 plus, increase access to affordable, nutritious food through a collaborative partnership, and make improvements to local programs and systems. The East Cleburne Community Center (ECCC) plays the biggest role for seniors in socializing with others. “They come out for bingo, free breakfast and prizes every week and have for the last 14 years. We offer free breakfast,” said Pickett. “This year we added the free cooking classes to address the food insecurity issue.”

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JCSOS assists seniors with finding jobs, medical and dental benefits and funds Senior Share, which is a farm-to-market program where seniors can receive up to 35 pounds of produce at no cost. Free cooking classes are available to learn about nutrition and cooking for one or two.

Approximately 45-60 seniors attend bingo every week. In late July a raised gardening class was offered. Movie days are available, and the seniors select the movie and free popcorn is available. “The socialization really helps the seniors, it gets them out of the house, keeps them occupied,” said Pickett. The average age of the seniors served by the Community Center is 74 years old. The Center is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 602 E. Olive Street in Cleburne. At the cooking classes participants get "hands-on" training with prepping and cooking healthy and delicious recipes. Registration is required. Register by calling (817) 556-3716 to sign up. For ages 55 plus. The Senior Share events have been doubling in attendance since they were started this summer. The July event had approximately 115 in attendance. The next Senior Share Food program is offered at 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 28 and Sept. 25. You can learn about these free events available through their East Cleburne Community Center’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ search/top/?q=east%20cleburne%20community%20 center&epa=SEARCH_BOX . As the program progresses over the next year and a half, there is a lot of collaboration that will be happening. This fall once, school is back in session, students at Hill College and Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) will be involved. As a part of the grant, Aly was also able to get a contract with T-Mobile for tablets. Students in the Hill College psychology and social work departments and SWAU psychology and counseling departments will be trained how to assist senior citizens to use their phones or tablets to order groceries that the students will pick up and deliver, or how to order fast food to be delivered to their homes. Aly and the “dream team” are the answer to the Johnson County SOS call for seniors in distress. JCL

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CLEBURNE CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S JOB CORPS

A Functional & Spiritual Haven By LaRue Barnes Photos Provided by Cleburne Christian Women’s Job Corps

young woman saw a sign alongside West Henderson Street in Cleburne, advertising Christian Women’s Job Corps. She knew what it was, a friend had told her about it before. She recalled, “I remembered seeing the sign last year, too. I thought about calling the telephone number, but I didn’t do anything. I understood that I could get free job training and improve my life with Bible study and get life and job skills training. But I had waited too late to check it out. “This time, I was at rock bottom and had no direction in my life. I was in an abusive relationship and I had no self confidence left. I was desperate to make a change.” She followed through and enrolled in the program. She said it changed her life.

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THE CLEBURNE CHRISTIAN WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S JOB CORPS IS DEVOTED TO GLORIFYING GOD BY AFFIRMING AND EQUIPPING WOMEN FOR LIFE AND WORK, CHANGING THE LIVES OF WOMEN IN JOHNSON COUNTY ALONG THE WAY. H O MET O W N L I V I NG A T I TS B EST

QUALIFICATIONS FOR ENROLLMENT

The Cleburne campus of the Christian Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Job Corps opened its doors at 616 W. Wardville Street in Cleburne, in 2009. Women, at least 18 years of age, who have a high school diploma, a GED, or who will be working towards completion of a GED, are eligible to apply. There are no financial need requirements. Presently it is the only CWJC in Johnson County. Participants provide their own childcare and transportation to the center. Fall and Spring sessions run for 12 weeks, 8:30 to 12:30, Monday through Thursday. The next session begins August 26.

TRAINING OFFERED

Debbie Goulding, CWJC site coordinator, explained that the program is staffed by volunteer teachers from the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;often retired teachers and businessmen and women. Classes include Bible study, computer skills, resumes and cover letters, conflict resolution, a study of Choosing Forgiveness, dressing for success, social etiquette, a Boundaries book study, goal setting, making a good first impression, business etiquette, personal finances, Smart Girls/Smart Choices, phone etiquette, everyday nutrition, filing practice, business ethics, speech preparation, customer service, and cultural awareness. Instructors for Spring 2019 were Renee Urbanovsky, Rebecca Roe, Sharon Capps, Pam Ackley, Laura Taylor, Debbie Goulding, Jerry Cox, Cynthia Allen, Jocelyn Morgan, Tena Alexander, Neal Logan, Larue Barnes, Cindy Tilton and Diane Crosby. Also Mindi Rosser, Lori Lyness, Carolyn Smith, Dee Dee Babcock, Cindy Plonien, Aaron Pitts, Kathy Galvan, Jeremy Conrad and Roxy Sherwood made presentations. A tour at Hill College and a Community Resources Panel made up by Tom Morton, Sonja Southard and Brooke Vaughn were included. A lunch, prepared by ladies from various churches, is served to participants on Thursdays.

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SPLENDID LILY

A trip to Splendid Lily, a free business-apparel boutique at Field Street Baptist Church, is a highlight for the enrolled ladies. They are given an opportunity to treat themselves to shopping for clothes, shoes and accessories from gently used donations to wear to internships and job interviews. They may choose as many of the outfits as they wish and may keep them. Splendid Lily reflects Luke 12:27: “Consider the lilies how they grow; they soil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” Splendid Lily primarily exists for CWJC participants, not for the general public. It is organized and maintained by Nancy Gilliam, Lana Wade and Sandra Buerger.

ALUMNI SUPPORT

Monthly summer meetings at night are held for those who have already completed the program. One alumnus stated that she not only enjoyed and learned from the programs, but it kept her in touch with fellow believers instead of previous acquaintances. She explained, “I found myself when I found God. I want to be with others who believe and stay involved.”

CLASSES INCLUDE BIBLE STUDY, COMPUTER SKILLS, RESUME AND COVER-LETTER WRITING, SOCIAL ETIQUETTE, DRESSING FOR SUCCESS, BUSINESS ETHICS, CUSTOMER SERVICE AND MANY MORE.

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SUCCESSES

One ex-student said she knew there was a God before she came to CWJC, but she didn’t know Him. Before she came, she was depressed, cried easily, and was under a physician’s care, taking several medications. The first week of the class was hard for her. One of the board members went to her home when she didn’t show up for class. She had been suffering from depression and a life of poor choices. The third week of class she accepted Christ as her savior. The inner light of Christ made all things new in her. She weaned herself off her medications and started being a very present mother to her teenage son. One of the teachers at CWJC said, “That student became the light of our class, encouraging others and bringing gifts to others. Soon her goal became to ‘get off’ welfare. At our graduation ceremony she was so overcome by emotion when it was time for her speech, she just stood before us and cried for several minutes. Her journey partner (a Christian woman who served as her mentor) stood beside her at the podium until she could tell her story. That person is now one of the leaders in the alumni group. She was hired by a large construction company to do office work, 40 hours a week. They say she is one of the best employees they have and is organizing the entire office. She was recently baptized at the church she now attends. Renee Urbanovsky, CWJC assistant site coordinator, plans a fund-raising tea and style show for the ladies in the spring. Clothing stores loan the clothes for the participants to model. Directed as an official style show, the ladies take pride in being a part of it. A fundraiser chili cook-off is held in the fall. At mock interviews the ladies present their resumes with confidence. Business executives interview participants and record their opinions, stating whether they would consider actually hiring if the interviews were authentic. Suggestions for improvement are also listed.

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VOLUNTEERS

Personnel and volunteers at CWJC during 2019 included 8 staff members, 12 board members, and 13 teachers, who were not staff or board members. There were 19 journey partners who met weekly with their assigned participant for lunch on Thursdays and at a public place for one-on-one sharing times each week. They were present at graduation and presented flowers to their graduate. Many mentors and students stay in contact after the class is completed. A Board of Directors meets monthly.

HOW TO CONTACT

The next CWJC session begins August 26. Call 817-645-9979, or check HYPERLINK "http://www. cleburnecwjc.org" www.cleburnecwjc.org or see FB Page, Christian Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Job Corps Cleburne, Texas, for more information. There are no fees.

NEEDS

For the non-profit organization, donations are essential. Funds are desperately needed for an expanded building as the current lease expires in 2020. JCL

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FA I T H & C O M M U N I T Y

DUDLEY HALL Opulent Theatre Meets Professional Entertainment in the Round By Peggy Purser Freeman Photos Provided by Eric Priddy Photography

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xcited to have tickets to see a musical production and knowing the excellent quality of entertainment at Plaza Theatre Company, I recently arrived at the Plaza early with plans to grab lunch and capture a great seat for the Saturday afternoon matinee. I talked with Aaron at the Main Street Box Office and discovered my tickets were for the Plaza Theatre Company’s production at Dudley Hall. A few short blocks east on Anglin Street, I pulled into easy-access parking

and stepped into opulence. Past the wide plush entry, with vaulted ceilings and elegant lighting, past the luxurious waiting area, I took a brief stop at the spacious, beautiful ladies’ room. Then I stepped into the theater. “Wow! Just wow!” The intimate theater-in-theround stage transported me into theater magic. Dudley Hall features eleven shows and over twohundred performances annually. At the box office, I found familiar faces—JaceSon Barrus and his father, Jace, whose height and build would be more at home in the gym than a lavish theater, gave me the grand tour.

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THE INTIMATE THEATER-IN-THE-ROUND STAGE TRANSPORTED ME INTO THEATER MAGIC. DUDLEY HALL FEATURES ELEVEN SHOWS AND OVER TWOHUNDRED PERFORMANCES ANNUALLY.

“Dad was a coach and my mom was an incredible actress. The first time my dad saw her she was on stage in Kiss Me Kate. Dad turned to his friends and said, ‘I’m going to marry her.’ My brother and I were raised in theater and sports. My parents started a theater when I was twenty, so I worked there until that closed. I’ve never done anything else.” For JaceSon and Tina Barrus and their business partners, Aaron and Milette Siler, twelve years at the Plaza Theatre on South Main produced success and growth. This growth insisted on more space. “The Downtown Cleburne Association actually gave us some seed money to help us get started in Cleburne,” Jace said. “We had a commitment to remain downtown. Building owners, Howard and Sherry Dudley wanted to change their building’s usage and, being strong supporters of the arts, offered us the space.” The Dudleys have contributed to the growth of

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Cleburne for decades. "We feel a deep debt of gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Dudley for their selfless contributions to our community. It's an honor to produce live theater in the building that bears their name." This vision has changed entertainment in Cleburne in a grand way. The city’s community theater had always been far and above the norm. However, Plaza Theatre Company’s Dudley Hall is the crowning glory. The stage area stands eighteen inches above the main floor with low-graded ramps into the theater. This raised flooring allows room to house the stage which includes a turntable. “This facility gives us capabilities that the Main Street Theatre doesn’t have.” Jace continued our tour. “First, it doubles our seating capacity to 276 in Dudley Hall. The rectangular room gives the feel of a round room, with pie-shaped areas for balconies and separate scenes with the furthest seating from the stage on the sixth row.”

If you have attended the Plaza’s Main Street Theatre you know the incredible feeling of being part of the show, of sitting in the middle of the dancing and singing as if you’re part of the cast. Dudley Hall enhances this sensation and the seats are more than comfortable. They’re wide and soft, plus they rock and have cup holders. The Plaza Theatre Company now offers firstclass performances in an amazing space that makes going to the theater an event for the entire family. “Even though the overhead increased with Dudley Hall, it’s worth it.” Jace continued. “It’s important to us to be family friendly and family affordable. It took a huge commitment. There’s a saying about commitment, ‘In a bacon and eggs breakfast, the chicken is involved, but the pig is committed.’ When it comes to making it work, we are the pig. We are committed to theater in Cleburne. We are literally all in with our business. Our annual fund drive, thru the Legacy Club program, is a big part of our business model. It also provides perks for sponsors like season tickets, reserved parking, and more.” Aaron Siler and his wife, Milette moved to the Dallas area after they married. Aaron met Jace in college. “We lost touch and then reconnected sixteen years ago,” Aaron said. “Starting Plaza Theatre Company with JaceSon, Tina and my wife, Milette, has been one of the most difficult and most fulfilling jobs I have ever experienced. We made great sacrifices and worked long hours in the beginning. Milette and I love participating in bringing such enrichment to our community, not only culturally but also in volunteer opportunities and training new talent. We have the opportunity to watch the audiences exit our theater with smiles and a jump in their step.” An area actress, Shauna Lewis, delighted the audience with her portrayal of the world’s biggest fan in the musical, Always, Patsy Cline.

“Oh, my goodness! The Dudley Theatre is the nicest theater I’ve ever been in.” Shauna’s enthusiasm is addictive. “It’s gorgeous, and the rotating stage is perfect. There’s not a bad seat in the house. My husband and I go on vacation and we always check on the community theaters in each location.” Plaza Theatre Company provides a community, not just for those who attend the shows but also for those who learn and perform in a safe and family-friendly environment. The Plaza Jr Theatre offers performances on Saturday afternoons at the Main Street location and kids love it.

Plaza Academy Fine Arts & Dance Studio

Plaza Academy is Plaza Theatre Company's fine arts education program. Academy classes are available in two fourteen-weeks semesters and culminate with a recital. They also offer two summer camps that include the opportunity to be a part of a Plaza Theater Company production. “The Academy is our minor league.” Tina Barrus, Director of the Academy explained, “Our Academy offers a variety of fine art disciplines for youth ages four

to eighteen. Classes include study in acting, musical theater, voice, tap, ballet and more. Over four-hundred students attended in the 2018-2019 school year. The summer session in 2019 facilitated one-hundred kids.” Plaza Academy operates as a musical theater and dance school for young people. The Academy offers classes at 221 S. Mill Street in Cleburne. Ethan Lake, an eighteen-year-old heading toward a local college, and Lily McClendon, a Joshua High School fourteen year-old, both once attended the Academy as students, and now are performers. “The main thing for me is that it helped me socially,” Ethan explained. “My favorite role was being a dancer in the Newsies. The feeling in that show was amazing!” Lily added, “Meeting people and getting to make connections to those people is awesome. The best role I’ve played for me was Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird.” Plaza Theatre Company presents light comedies and musicals designed for the entire family with shows almost every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 pm, and matinees playing on Saturdays at 3:00 pm. As a community theater, auditions are open for most productions. Don’t miss the annual Shakespeare in the Park produced by Plaza Theatre Company in coordination with the Cleburne Chamber Players. JCL

Dudley Hall is located at 305 S. Anglin Street and the Plaza Theatre at 111 S. Main. Call 817-202-0600 for more information or email info@plaza-theatre.com

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Joshua Deer Processing

family owned and operated Tim and Dana Bruce

1601 S. Broadway Joshua, TX 76058 817-774-DEER (3337) www.joshdeer.com f jdpdeer

Burleson

GIF T S AND HOME DECOR

Capri Blue Candles

WE MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME

Brighton Jewelry

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100 S. Commerce Street, Burleson, Texas (817) 447-3315 | www.accents-home.com Monday through Saturday 10 am-6pm, Sunday 12:30-5 pm

WE CAN’T WAIT TO MEET YOU! PLEASE CALL

(817) 641-6261

TO RESERVE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

WWW.BENAGEDENTALCARE.COM 302 N RIDGEWAY DR, CLEBURNE, TX RELAX, WE’LL TAKE IT FROM HERE. . . SEDATION • IMPLANTS WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL BRACES • GENERAL DENTISTRY

DENTISTRY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

BE BY MY SIDE.

VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME.

http://www.casajohnsoncounty.org/volunteer

CASA OF JOHNSON COUNTY The mission of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Johnson County is to speak out for abused and neglected children in the community as well as in court proceedings so that they can be permanently placed in a safe, nurturing environment as quickly as possible.

To learn more about becoming a CASA Volunteer please visit:

PH: 817.558.6995 Ext. 111 FAX: 817.556.9522

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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

THE MOBILE HEALTH SERVICES BUS WORKS WITH SCHOOL DISTRICTS IN JOHNSON COUNTY TO BE AVAILABLE FOR EASY TO ACCESS IMMUNIZATION SERVICES FOR ALL KIDS, AS WELL AS PROVIDES A RESOURCE TO STUDENTS WITHOUT HEALTH INSURANCE.

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Mobile Health Services OFFERING OPTIONS FOR CARE

Provided by Texas Health Huguley

s parents get ready to send their kids back to school, they can quickly realize their plate is filling up with school supply lists, new clothes and meet-the-teacher events. In the hustle and bustle of the season, an easy to miss to-do list item to check off is getting your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s immunizations updated. For some families, the obstacle is not only lack of time, but lack of insurance coverage and financial resources. On a typical hot and humid August morning in front

of First Baptist Church of Burleson, several families wait in the parking lot outside of the Texas Health Huguley Mobile Health Services Bus where they can receive lowcost immunizations for their children. Throughout the year, the Mobile Health Services Bus works with school districts in Johnson County to be available for easy to access immunization services for all kids. Additionally, they work with school nurses to be a resource for kids without insurance who are sick and help get them well and back to school.

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Working alongside Joe is Misty Monastesse, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, who was named as one of DFW’s Great 100 Nurses in 2018. While Joe administers immunizations and draws labs, Misty takes care of sick visits, screenings and pap smears. The two, along with Alondra Zamora, Mobile Health Services Assistant, work together to see over 8,000 patients a year in the Southeast Tarrant and Johnson County area. Recently, the Mobile Health Services Bus served a patient who had lost his job due to his sleep apnea. The team worked with the sleep study center, chaplains and social workers. The patient needed an $800 CPAP machine, but he could not afford to purchase the equipment.

THE MOBILE HEALTH SERVICES BUS IS ONE OF THE MANY WAYS TEXAS HEALTH HUGULEY HOSPITAL LIVES OUT ITS MISSION OF EXTENDING THE HEALING MINISTRY OF CHRIST. Overseen by a physician, the Mobile Health Services Bus is staffed by a Family Practice Nurse Practitioner, a licensed paramedic, various allied health professionals and volunteers. The bus provides free and low-cost healthcare services throughout Southeast Tarrant and Johnson counties to those unable to access healthcare due to a lack of transportation or adequate financial resources. Among the families waiting in line for back to school immunizations are people visiting the Mobile Health Services Bus for blood pressure screenings, lab work, cervical cancer screenings as well as those who are sick and needing a check-up. “No day is the same,” said Joe Wascomb, B.S., L.P., who serves as the Community Outreach Manager and has been the licensed paramedic on the Mobile Health Services Bus for the past 23 years. “But every day we encounter people who haven’t known about our services and how we can help. Many of these patients haven’t received regular care, so it’s rewarding to be able to get folks connected with resources to manage their conditions and get them taken care of.”

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This patient’s sleep apnea was so bad that the company doing the sleep study had to run the test twice to make sure it was accurate. He was sleeping so little every night that the sleep study physician didn’t think he would live long enough to get him the equipment. Misty talked to the company that performed the test to lower the cost of the machine to $600 and two Texas Health Huguley employees each gave $300 to pay for his equipment. “We show the love of Christ, we tell patients we love them and give them a hug if they need it,” said Joe when asked about the impact the Mobile Health Services Bus has on the Johnson County community. The Mobile Health Services Bus is one of the many ways Texas Health Huguley Hospital lives out its mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ. Located on I-35W in south Fort Worth, Texas Health Huguley is licensed for more than 350 beds. The hospital includes a medical intensive care unit, a cardiovascular critical care unit, a progressive care unit, open heart surgery center and behavioral health. Texas Health Huguley Hospital has accredited programs in orthopedics, chest pain and inpatient diabetes, plus an award-winning emergency department available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More than 350 primary care and specialty physicians provide a wide range of inpatient and outpatient services. To learn more about the Texas Health Huguley Mobile Health Services Bus, please visit TexasHealthHuguley.org. JCL

Texas Health Huguley Mobile Health Services Bus Schedule for 2019 by Location: ALVARADO Second Monday and third Thursday at Town Square 100 S Spears St. | 817-568-5378 9 -11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3 p.m. BURLESON First Wednesday at First Baptist Church 317 W Ellison St. | 817-295-9384 9 -11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3 p.m. Third Monday at Pathway Church 325 NW Renfro St. | 817 295-5832 9 - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3 p.m. CLEBURNE Third Wednesday at Field Street Baptist Church 306 N Field St. | 817-645-4376 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1 - 3 p.m. EVERMAN First Monday and second Wednesday Everman Shopping Center 1801 Everman Parkway | 817-5685378 9 - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 - 3 p.m. FORT WORTH First Tuesday at Genesis United Methodist 7635 S Hulen St. | 817-292-4551 9 - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 - 3 p.m. GODLEY Second Thursday at Godley Fire Department 200 S Main St. | 817-568-5378 9 - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 - 3 p.m. JOSHUA Second Tuesday at Joshua Junction Hwy 174 & 917 | 817-568-5378 9 - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 - 3 p.m. KEENE First Thursday at Keene SDA Church 114 S Fairview St. | 817-202-6450 9 – 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 – 3 p.m.

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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

SPORTS

PHYSICALS

THE REASONING BEHIND

BY LARUE BARNES

ll across Johnson County, public school students may be dreading their required physical exams in order to participate in sports. Many people ask the age-old questions, â&#x20AC;&#x153;WHY is this required every year? What do they check? Is this completely necessary?â&#x20AC;? But there is a reason. In addition to football, soccer and basketball players, cheerleaders and marching band students are also included in required athletic physical exams. The majority of students will pass their exams with flying colors. A few may need additional tests before clearance. Approximately 30 million athletes younger than 18 years and another 3 million athletes with special needs receive medical

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clearance to participate in sports. The exam may detect conditions that predispose the athlete to injury or illness and can provide strategies to prevent injuries. At a minimum the physical exam will include assessment of vital signs, vision, hearing, and the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. The most common abnormalities found are elevated blood pressure and vision problems. A brief standardized orthopedic screening is adequate for athletes with no symptoms. Untreated mental illness should receive treatment and be stabilized before resuming athletic participation. Athletes with identified drug abuse should also receive treatment before returning to sports.

The required school sports physical exam can prove invaluable in diagnosing hidden disease

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Dr. Shoaib Khalil, A Cleburne physician, notes there are many things that are screened during the annual athletic physical, and each screened area has specific functionality being checked. He said these are essential areas to check carefully:

MUSCULOSKELETAL DEFORMITIES - Is there Marfan syndrome? Knock knees, scoliosis, calcium and Vitamin B deficiencies? All persons undergoing the exam should be questioned about exertional symptoms, the presence of a heart murmur, symptoms of Marfan syndrome (a condition that generally affects connective tissue that hold all the body connective tissue together, usually signified by a student being very tall with very long limbs) and family history of premature serious cardiac conditions or sudden death. The site stressed that patients with known orthopedic injuries should undergo a thorough joint-specific exam. Generally, if the athlete has no disabling pain, full range of motion, and full strength in the affected area, and 68

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is able to pass functional tests in a supervised sports setting, clearance can be provided.

LUNGS - Is there asthma? Evidence of any undiagnosed

disease? Athletes who are actively wheezing or recovering from an asthma attack should be restricted until symptoms have stabilized. Physicians may require athletes to have a rescue inhaler immediately available as a condition for athletic participation.

HEART

- Is there a murmur? If so, he said there should absolutely be no exercise clearance without an echocardiogram. The American Family Physician website states that athletes with sustained systolic blood pressure of less than 160 and diastolic blood pressure of less that 100 should not be restricted from playing sports. Athletes with bleeding disorders such as hemophilia are advised to be restricted from contact or collision sports.

PSYCHE/CRANIAL - Is epilepsy diagnosed and controlled? Does the athlete have a history of concussion? Is the person stable? Depressed? A person with well-controlled epileptic seizures can participate in sports. Exceptions include sports in which a seizure could be fatal, such as skydiving, hang gliding, and scuba diving. In athletes with a history of concussion, physicians should determine the number of concussions they have had; their duration, frequency, and recovery time; and risk factors. A complete neurologic exam should be performed. Disqualification for athletes with a history of frequent or severe concussions is controversial.

At a minimum the physical exam will include assessment of vital signs, vision, hearing, and the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems.

GENITAL CHECK FOR MALES -

Is there evidence of a hernia? Rule out testicular deformities? Genital check for males not only must rule out hernia, but is to check to be sure testicles are normal. A testicle which is not down could cause cancer. He said a referral to a urologist is needed before clearance if that is found. Families and friends from communities all over Johnson County will be in the bleachers and stands to cheer their students on. It will be good to know those participating have been thoroughly screened and are ready to win! JCL

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JOHNSON COUNTY! W

hen you have after school sports and practice, thinking of dinner is the last thing on your mind. Visit a local restaurant for a quick and tasty option and keep your kitchen clean at the same time. Johnson County has a multitude of options for fine dining for a nice date night or a business meeting, as well as a quick stops for a bite for lunch. Be sure to let them know you saw them in Johnson County Living!

Fly by Night CATTLE COMPANY WEDDING & EVENT VENUE

15 minutes south of Fort Worth off the Chisholm Trail Parkway 2705 County Rd 1125 Cleburne 76033 www.flybynightcattleco.com | (817) 645-7000

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(817) 645-9031 Open Mon-Thurs 9:30-3:00 109 N. Anglin Street, Cleburne

336 N Broadway, Joshua, Texas (817) 437-0173 www.facebook.com/kandsbarbq

208 East Chambers Street, Cleburne

(817) 556-1040

Chisholmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant

Daily Lunch Buffet 11am-1:30pm Sat Night Ribeye Buffet 5-8pm

FULL-SERVICE CATERING & DELIVERY

113 S Main, Godley, Texas | 817-389-2560

220 N. Burleson Blvd. Burleson, TX 76028 (817) 367-9824 | hardeightbbq.com H O MET O W N L I V I NG A T ITS B EST

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

IN THE KITCHEN WITH

Dietitian Vanessa Abbood ABOUT VANESSA ABBOOD MS, RD, LD Vanessa Abbood MS, RD, LD is a clinical dietitian at Texas Health Huguley. She completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas. Not only has she spent the majority of her career working as a clinical dietician, she also enjoys nutrition counseling and health promotion and education. She enjoys cooking and trying out new recipes. Vanessa lives in Fort Worth with her husband, 2 dogs, and 6 cats.

Lunchbox Upgrade

s much as we all love summer, we have to admit that school is just around the corner.....ditch the same old sandwiches for these upgraded recipes sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Using just a few ingredients you may already have in your pantry, you can whip up something new and unique that will be the envy of the lunchbox crew. Here are three new recipes to try this winter:

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Turkey and Veggie Roll-Up Ingredients:

• 1 Light Italian Herb Flat Out Wrap • 2 Tbsp 1/3 Less Fat Cream Cheese • 2 oz Boar’s Head 46% Lower Sodium Turkey Breast • Small handful of shredded carrots and shredded lettuce • 2 Tbsp Ken’s Light Italian Dressing • 1 small Gala apple sliced • 1-5.5 oz cup of light vanilla yogurt

Directions: Place 1 Italian wrap on a cutting board and spread light cream cheese evenly on top side. Place turkey slices across the wrap atop the cream cheese. Place shredded carrots and lettuce over the turkey. Drizzle with light Italian dressing and roll, tucking in the open and roll over to secure. Secure with toothpicks and slice in half. Wrap tightly with Saran wrap or keep toothpicks in place to prevent from unrolling. Enjoy with apple and light vanilla yogurt on the side.

Nutritional Analysis: Entire Meal: 407 calories, 33 grams of protein, 14 grams of fat

Mid-Day Mediterranean Ingredients:

• ½ c sliced cucumbers • ½ c cherry/cherub tomatoes • 2 oz fresh mozzarella balls • ½ cup pistachios with shells • 7 crackers- Reduced Fat Triscuit Crackers

Directions:

In a sectioned container, place the sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes in respective compartment. Place the mozzarella balls and nuts in the remaining sections. In a small snack bag, portion out Triscuit crackers. Enjoy!

Nutritional analysis 463 calories, 24 grams protein, 26 grams fat

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PB n’ A Rounds Ingredients:

• 1 Nature’s Own 100-calorie Sandwich Thins • 1 small apple of your choice • 2 Tbsp of peanut butter, any variety or nut butter of choice • 1 tsp of cinnamon for sprinkling 18 pieces, 1-Serving of Original Veggie Crisps

Directions: Rinse apple, cut to remove the core, and slice into thin, half-moon shaped slices. Set aside. Separate rounds via the pre-cut line. Spread peanut butter evenly onto each side of the sandwich round. Layer the thinly sliced apples atop the peanut butter on one of the sandwich rounds. Layer as many apples as will fit and stick to the peanut butter. Sprinkle with cinnamon and top with second sandwich round. Cut in half or enjoy as is.

Nutritional Analysis: Entire Meal: 502 calories, 13 grams protein, 24 grams of fat

Hearty and Healthy Chicken Salad Ingredients:

• 2- 12.5 oz cans of premium canned white chicken breast chunks, drained and rinsed • ¼ cup dried cranberries • ¼ cup chopped walnuts • ¼ cup chopped red onion • ½ cup chopped celery • ¾ cup plain, non-fat Greek yogurt • ½ tsp garlic powder • 1 tsp dried tarragon, herbs de Provence, or any other herb of choice • Salt and pepper to taste SERVE WITH: 6 crackers; Cracked Black Pepper Triscuits 2 cups Mixed salad greens Light poppy seed dressing

Directions:

Drain canned chicken and rinse well. Add to a large bowl and gently break up the chunks of chicken. Add chopped onion, celery, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts and combine. Sprinkle with dried herbs and salt and pepper. Add the Greek yogurt and mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Can be served with crackers as mention above or as a sandwich on your favorite whole grain bread or wrap. Recommended serving: ½ cup. Recipe will make ~5 servings.

Nutritional analysis 420 kcals, 16 g protein, 14 grams of fat

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Powerful Pairing Salad Ingredients: • • • • • • • •

2 cups of mixed greens ¼ cup sliced cherry tomatoes ¼ cup shredded carrots ¼ cup chopped cucumber 1 chopped radish 1 oz crumbled feta cheese ¼ cup cooked and cooled quinoa ½ cup drained and rinsed canned lentils

Dressing: 2 Tablespoons avocado oil 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar Dried Italian herbs

Nutritional Analysis: 530 calories, 15 grams of protein, 32 grams fat

Directions: Place the mixed greens in a medium bowl. Add the sliced cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, chopped radish, chopped cucumber. Drizzle with oil and vinegar and sprinkle with dried herbs, then toss together. Place in a container. In a separate, microwave safe container, add the lentils and quinoa. Prior to eating, heat the quinoa/grains mixture for ~1.5 minutes. Place atop the salad mixture and top with crumbled feta cheese. *If preparing this salad the night before, do not add the dressing to the mixed greens until the morning before packing* This will prevent the lettuce from becoming too soggy.

TIPS & TRICKS FOR A BETTER

By Lindsay L. Allen

A small gift can mean a lot to a teacher. As your kiddos get back in the routine of heading to school, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget that your teachers are in the same boat and may need a little encouragement that first week themselves! Check out these easy and inexpensive gift ideas!

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Gift Baskets

• Grab a coffee cup and fill it with tasty coffee grounds or a gift card to a coffee shop, to help as they get “back in the grind.” • Fill a pencil box with necessities like tissues, chocolate bars, ibuprofen, gum and colored pens to create a “survival kit.” • Head to the dollar store and grab school supply items to fill a small basket, like disinfecting wipes, pencils, crayons, hand sanitizer and notebook paper.

Plants

Giving your teacher a plant is a gift to your own child as well, since it’s been proven that being in the presence of plants can increase memory retention by around 20 percent and improve performance in a series of basic tests.

Books

If your child is in elementary school, you can almost bet that your teacher is always looking for books to expand their classroom library. Look for grade level books that will benefit the whole class and help your teacher out too!

Lunch

A teacher’s lunch is often sandwiched (pun intened) in between recess and math lessons and individual tutoring and they are left with little time for a lunch break. Find out which local eateries deliver and hand your teacher a gift card to one of those places so that lunch can be brought to her!

Local Boutiques

What is better than supporting your local small businesses and hooking your teacher up with a gift or gift card from there?

Pun-tastic Gifts

You don’t have to spend a lot to show your teacher that you thought of her! Check out Pinterest for free pun intended gift tags. Gift your teacher with nail polish and tell her you are “toetally excited” she is your teacher or purchase a candle and tell her it will be a “scent-sational” year. You can also fill a mason jar with tea bags to say how much you love your TEAcher or present her with a bottle of soda to express that you are soda-lighted to have her as your teacher. Whatever the pun, the free downloadable gift tag is waiting for you on Pinterest.

Essentials for Teachers and Students First Day of School Picture

This is obligatory, no matter the age. If you are a parent, look for free downloadable signs online or for ideas of DIY signs that spell out the year and grade level for keep sake photos. If you are a teacher, set up a photo booth with the year, grade and teacher name on it for parents to capture the day when dropping off!

Money

Go ahead and select “yes” next time you are checking out at the grocery store and are asked if you want cash back. All school year long, but especially the first six weeks, there are plenty of times when cash for snacks, last minute school supplies, penny fundraisers, field trips and more are needed. Find a good pocket in the backpack to keep coins and dollars in for those emergencies. If you are a teacher headed back, you will need that emergency fund as well for the vending machine or to cover the student who forgot their money!

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Snacks

Keep a snack on hand in the backpack at all times for the days you forget to pack a snack or when there isn’t time to stop and grab one after school and before soccer practice. Extra snacks will never go bad with kids around! As a teacher, it is best to keep nut and gluten free foods in your desk for the students that forget their snacks for the day.

Hygiene

Head to the travel section of the hygiene aisle and see what items are age appropriate to keep in your child’s backpack. Chapstick, lotion, hand sanitizer and tissues will be welcomed by all. As your kid gets older and is involved in school athletics, you may need to stock up on shampoo and deodorant for their gym bag too.

Spirit Outfits

Everyone needs a shirt to show their school pride! Local stores and boutiques sell all sorts of apparel representing your favorite team and these will come in handy on Fridays especially! If you have a girl, don’t forget the matching hair bow to really let the team know you are rooting for them!

Monogrammed Essentials

Water bottles, pencil bags, school supplies, binders, hairbows and everything in between can all be monogrammed and help your kiddo’s items from ending up in the lost and found. If you don’t have your own vinyl cutting machine to put monogramed labels on items, head to Etsy where you can inexpensively find custom labels and stickers to order.

Layers

A light jacket or cardigan to wear when the class room gets too cold is important to have and keep in the classroom cubby or locker year-round. As winter approaches, a nice coat will be needed for recess, but don’t forget to write your child’s name somewhere on the jacket or it may end up in the lost and found.

Haircut

In the hustle and bustle of getting ready for the school year, a haircut is often over looked. Many times, salons will run back to school specials in August and help get rid of those “chlorine ends” from the summer in the pool.

Emergency Numbers

Making sure that your kids know who to call in an emergency is important. Find a pocket in the backpack that can house the names and numbers of who they should call should when they get sick at school, miss the bus or forget their lunch.

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Planner

Whether you are giving the test or receiving the test, a good planner will come in handy to keep track of the assignments, field trips, themed days, classmates’ birthdays, school parties, pep rallies, student council meetings and more!

Elementary School Closed Toed Shoes

Your elementary aged kiddos will be required to wear closed toed shoes for P.E. class every day. Here is one area where it is worth investing a little as they will be worn every day of the school year!

Big Lunch Box

While the little lunch boxes may seem cute and the perfect size for the little ones…they aren’t that useful. Make sure when you are shopping that the lunch box is big enough for the lunch, morning snack, water bottle and ice packs.

Backpack

Another area worthy of splurging. If you invest in a good backpack, it is highly likely that you can get more than one year’s use out of it! Look for backpacks that have pockets inside and can store those emergency numbers, money and chap stick!

Wait and See

Chances are that even if your little girl prefers dresses now and your son wants all things dinosaur, their preferences will change the first week of school once they see what everyone else is wearing. You don’t have to have their full wardrobe complete on the first day, wait and see what they like and want and then go shopping during the Labor Day sales.

Shorts and Socks

Gym Bag

With athletics and P.E. classes in full swing at this age, investing in a good gym bag will beneficial and might be reused for years to come! Don’t forget the physical too!

If you have boys, then the wardrobe doesn’t require too much effort at this age. The main thing their closet will need is a never-ending supply of tall athletic socks (specific to their school and favorite college team is a popular trend) and athletic shorts). After you have those essentials, the rest is easy!

Jeans

Denim Jacket and Riding Boots

This is where that closet inventory list will really come in handy! As you shop, think of what can be paired together to create several outfits out of just a few staples. For inspiration, search for capsule wardrobes online!

With girls, it’s easy to turn the spring and summer outfits into fall and winter outfits without looking like repeats; just add a denim jacket and/ or tall boots and you have a new look without spending too much! The best part is that denim and boots go with almost every outfit!

A good pair of jeans can last almost as long as the owner can fit in them. When you take inventory of the closet, pay special attention to the jeans and the state they are in and stock up on a good pair or two if needed.

Mix and Match

Teachers Cardigan

A nice cardigan or two can turn most outfits into a professional attire. Look for these out of season when they are on sale and throw them on to turn any outfit into a more professional look.

Good Flats

Preteens This is the age when shopping becomes less “mom” involved and your preteen becomes much more vocal about what they will and will not wear.

Between recess, heading to the teacher’s lounge and general classroom activity, a good trusty pair of flats will get you through the day. Treat yourself and splurge here--your feet will thank you!

Prep Work

Blogs

Before you head to the store, go through the closet and make a list of what is in there and what is still needed. Set a budget and discuss it with your preteen so when you hit the stores, the expectations are set.

Locker Decor

Half the fun of middle school is finally getting a locker! Help celebrate the fun by purchasing locker organizers and décor. Many shelves, magnetic mirrors and baskets can all be found at the dollar store or grocery store.

If Pinterest isn’t filled with enough ideas on how to assemble your teacher wardrobe, check out trendy teacher blogs like Clothe Me in Robes, Trendy Tales of a Teacher or How to Dress like a Teacher for more tips and advice when it comes to dressing for school.

Retail Discounts

Many retailers like Ann Taylor Loft, Madewell, J. Crew and New York and Company offer special discounts for teachers. A quick Internet search will lead you to a more detailed list of not only apparel discounts, but computer, school supply, bookstore and other educational discounts! JCL

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x o B e h t e d i s t u O g n i Think Resources Outside the

Classroom By Janette Halliday

traditional classroom setting provides a student with the basics of education…. all the tools necessary in a “traditional” sense. Students completing any level of education should know how to write a complete sentence, solve mathematical equations, utilize problem solving skills in physical sciences and identify significant moments in history. Those are examples of what one expects from a classroom scenario. Yet, there is so much more that rounds out an individual’s education that happens outside the classroom. You might be surprised at

what your school’s resources are for your student and yourself that you can utilize. We are talking about the counseling staff for the institution your student attends. These individuals are the support tier for both the administrative and teaching staff. They complete the education equation in a student’s classroom experience. In the state of Texas, all school counselors are required to have a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling and most have experience as a classroom teacher, which gives them added knowledge of what students need.

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• Financial aid—many schools offer tutorial sessions for students and parents for help in completing financial aid documentation such as FASFA • Letters of recommendation—counselors can provide these for students submitting scholarship and job applications • Dual Credit—many schools offer students the opportunity to enroll in college classes during high school that will provide them with college credit; which in turn gives students college credits upon entrance into college. Counselors assist with enrollment, proctoring and verification • Scholarship packets—counselors have access to scholarship opportunities and will help students with application requirements and deadlines • Providing academic transcripts/records for scholarships and job applications • Assistance with setting up various college accounts

IT’S PERSONAL…

ONTO THE NEXT CHAPTER—CAREER GUIDANCE

What is in your student’s future? Destined for a fouryear college? Perhaps a vocational school or serving the armed forces? What does a high school counselor have to do with that? According to Kelly Tuggle, counselor for one of our local independent school districts, there is a wide range of resources available to the post high school graduate that a counselor can help provide to navigate the world after high school. For students with plans for post high school education, counselors can assist with: • ACT/SAT/TSI testing as well as the ASFAB test for those wishing to join military service • Apply TEXAS—helping college bound students apply to Texas based colleges • College visits—taking students to area institutions to get a feel for the campus and degree options • Career fairs—providing a forum for students to investigate different career choices by prospective employers including private sector, government and military • Individual career counseling—discussions regarding students’ interests and what high school classes will help in their career path • College housing applications—helping students complete housing requirements for their chosen post high school scenario for housing

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According to Tuggle, there are considerable variable factors that contribute to a student’s success and part of the job of a counselor is to be aware and address those needs. She said that it is important for a counselor to be aware of what a student might be dealing with and how it affects their school performance. As an example, she cited perhaps a student’s scenario consisted of the death of a loved one, a parent’s job loss or serious illness that would put them in a position that compromised their ability to focus on school. This also sometimes equates to the student becoming the head of the household, creating additional stress. “When something significant is going it is important to notify the counselor and how it affects the student,” said Tuggle. “Many times we aren’t made aware of what is happening in their personal life and it would make a difference on how we can help them.” She added it is then, that the counselor can begin to address the situation and help find resources specific to that student’s need. Some examples of those basic needs could be for: • Clothing and shoes • Glasses • School supplies • Shower facilities • Personal hygiene products She said counselors will help find organizations or individuals that can help provide what the student or family needs whether it be in personal needs, food or utilities. “Depending on the circumstance, some groups or individuals will help with meal assistance, such as a Thanksgiving or Christmas meal or send home snack bags of food,” said Tuggle.

School counselors all have something else in common. We. Love. Children. We want every child to have a satisfying, successful life and to be contributing members of society

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You are dealing with hard and real stuff. You have to be there for everyone. Tuggle added that in other situations, families may have experienced financial difficulties in the form of disconnected utilities and counselors seek out ways to have them reconnected. “You have to try to find sources or ways to help,” said Tuggle, noting that specific types of help can make the difference in a student’s academic success.

RESOLVING PERSONAL ISSUES OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM

Tuggle said many of the issues students face that counselors deal with include those that are not in the classroom. Counselors help facilitate programs that help students to combat: • Cyber safety • Bullying • Substance awareness and abuse • Suicide prevention • Teenage pregnancy related services and support

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A counselor’s job is also to keep tabs on a student’s academic history and factors that may influence that history. Tuggle said that if a student encounters difficulty with classes, it’s important to look at why, especially if it’s an issue revolving around their homelife. School counselors also work with Child Protective Services to provide information on students academic history. She added there are instances where counselors can be important in finding alternative living arrangements for students involved in CPS cases.

IT’S A COMMUNITY

Beyond the student population, Tuggle said being a counselor encompasses the whole school staff. “You have to be there with emotional support for your staff members,” said Tuggle citing personal experiences with the loss of staff members, deaths of students and staff member illnesses. She said it’s vitally important to be aware of what is happening with support staff and being available to help them like they would help the student population.

IT’S ELEMENTARY….

School counselors are available not just in high school environments. Mary Kay Davis, counselor at a local elementary school, describes what a school counselor does for their students. “School counselors design and deliver comprehensive developmental counseling programs that promote student achievement. Our role is to work with students, teachers and parents to help guide students' academic, behavioral and social growth. The framework for our program is the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Program ,” said Davis. Davis said there are four broad components of a comprehensive counseling program. The first is a "Guidance Curriculum" (a.k.a. Classroom Guidance.) This provides guidance content to teach all students how to “develop transferable skills for daily living.” Davis said this is done by a counselor going into the classrooms and teaching lessons, adding that the frequency depends on the grade level and the number of students and counselors on campus. Davis said these lessons are based on a curriculum provided by the Texas Model and Needs Assessments and cover topics that help students in daily living skills and include: “self-concept, managing feelings, decision making, goal setting, problem solving, responsibility, communication skills, conflict resolution skills, developing academic potential, motivation, career awareness/exploration, personal health and safety, positive coping skills and managing stress.”

The second part of the program is called "Responsive Services." The purpose of this area is to provide support for students “through prevention, remediation or during times of crisis. This could involve individual or group counseling, consulting with staff and/or parents, and making referrals to outside community services.” The third area of concentration is called "Individual Planning." In this part, students are helped with focusing on goals-academic, career, personal and social. Davis said much of the time spent in this area is one-on-one planning for in which students are assisted in developing and addressing academic, career, personal and social goals. A large percentage of a secondary counselor's time goes into post-secondary planning with individual students. Finally, counselors work on the fourth part, called "System Support," and is described by Davis as “Basically, it's all the "behind the scenes" work.” It includes program management, support activities that benefit students, and program accountability activities.

WELCOME TO THE REAL WORLD

Does your student think they are ready for the real world? Are they ready to adult? Do they have all the skills it takes to survive on their own after they are done with the classroom setting? If you think your student needs further education in this area, Weatherford ISD Community Education is offering a new class for fall of 2019 that will offer topics of “adulting,” Adulting: Being A Financially Responsible Grown Up. A student’s education is a culmination of dedicated individuals utilizing a multitude of resources to give a student the best experience possible-whether in elementary school or a graduating senior. Don’t forget to tap into what the counseling staff can do for your student as well as you to maximize their education. JCL

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THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT…

By Janette Halliday

he days of using conventional methods of keeping track of schedules, activities, homework and to do lists are gone. The use of electronic devices to streamline your schedule has become the norm. Every time someone asks if there is better way, the usual response is “There’s an app for that.” What does that even mean? It means that an application on your smartphone allows you to keep in the know and up to date at the touch of a button or a swipe of your finger. As school is back in session, your little one’s teacher may throw one of these words at you during “Meet the Teacher” or orientation. This concept may be old hat for you, or you may hear about a new one this year. Take a little time to research the apps teachers may use to keep you up to date. Communication is key in helping your student succeed. Sometimes the difference between success and failure is simple improved communication between the teaching staff, student and caregiver. You might just find

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that the use of any apps could make your life easier. There are several similarities with many of these applications. Some common features with each app include: • Sending out messages to a whole group as well as individuals • Messages, photos, and videos can be shared with each of these • The ability to share information through your phone without sharing your phone number and keeping parent information safe • All of these allow you to share information through your phone, without sharing your phone number and keeping parent information secure. • Families will have instant access across multiple devices, including desktop, iPad, iPhone, and Android. • All users seem to agree that these are all very userfriendly.

COZI

This is a great app for your middle school and high school students with a varied schedule. Also great for college students and even mom and dad. It allows you to keep track of all of your assignments in one easy app location. Best part? The ease of setting reminders that help you to stay on track and know when items are due to be turned in. Cozi is an app that lets you manage your entire family’s schedule in one place while sharing it with other family members and set-up reminders for important appointments. There is also an option to import your Google calender along with adding shopping and to-do lists.

SEESAW

This is an unconventional app in that students can utilize a variety of tools to discover what their strengths are as well as areas for potential growth. This allows teachers to tailor the learning methods to meet the needs of the students. There are thousands of activities to choose from for students. Students use the tools to demonstrate their leaning in a portfolio environment. A unique feature is that up to ten people can connect to see the student’s progress.

BLOOMZ

Bloomz is a popular app designed for use for elementary school teachers and is set up similar to a Facebook feed. That format allows parent to “like” or comment on a message. Teacher have the capability of deleting any comments or turn off “commenting” if needed. With Bloomz, teachers also have the ability of enabling parent-parent communication. Parents can chat with each other or as a group. Valuable tools for teachers to interact with parents include classroom calendars, conference signups and sharing of student portfolios. Teachers can also send pictures using this app. '

REMIND

This is a great app with easy and efficient use. The app allows teachers to send out quick and simple messages while allowing recipients to reply, but only the teachers can see the comments. What Remind does not have is sign-ups, calendars or behavior tracking. There is a limit of 140 characters per message.

CLASSDOJO

In days past, behavior tracking might have been addressed by a parent teacher conference or notes sent home. ClassDojo is an app that is focused more on classroom management and behavior tracking compared to the other apps. Students behavior can be monitored by teachers, allowing them to add or delete points for behavior. The information is then allowed to be shared with parents or guardians. Providing more insight to student progress is the ability to send instant messages that can include photos, videos, or documents. Similar to Bloomz, teachers can share student digital portfolios with families. Dojo includes management tools like a group maker and timer. Teachers create groups for different activities and display a timer for the activities.

EVERNOTE

Remember the old days of taking notes? Enter Evernote— an app that combines note taking, to-do lists and organizing. It allows users to take notes that can be formatted into text, web pages or web page excerpts, pictures, voice notes or even handwritten “ink” notes. Evernote allows to you to organize each activity or project in a format that is easy for each user. It can also be downloaded for Windows, Mac, iOS. It utilizes safe, secure cloud storage to keep information protected and private.

Don’t let the fear of not knowing what is happening in your student’s life keep you in the dark. These are just a few of the apps available to help you maximize communication and make your life easier and help ensure a successful educational career from elementary through high school.

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CLEBURNE HIGH SCHOOL A New Beginning Provided by Cleburne ISD

hat has quickly become one of the area’s most-visited sites is the new home of the Cleburne High School Yellow Jackets. The new academic campus was built in front of the former school, which is now under renovation. It has both the features and “feel” of a junior college, according to both architects and visitors who have toured the school since its opening in January.

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Classrooms with lots of natural light designed for collaborative learning, a two-level cafeteria with a coffee bar, an enclosed courtyard—a popular student lunch spot no matter the weather—combined with new athletic facilities and enhanced career and technical education facilities are among the features of the new CHS. More than 35 “break-out spaces” for small group projects and individual study are found throughout the campus, including two most favored by students, overlooking the foyer from the second floor. The classic facade of the campus pays homage to the Cleburne High School of 1919, which now serves Johnson County as the Guinn Justice Center. Touches of Cleburne’s heritage are also reflected in the foyer of the CHS of 2019, highlighted by the second floor “trestle” catwalk recalling the decades-long presence of the Santa Fe Railroad in the community. In addressing college and career readiness for the 21st century learners making up the Jacket Nation, the campus includes a Career and Technical Education wing and center, which opened at the start of the 2018-19 school year along with the new science wing. The high school’s former science hall now serves

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students in the law/public safety/security, health sciences and business/marketing/finance clusters. New construction in this section of the campus has allowed for additional space for the pharmacy technician and certified nurse aide programs to provide industry-level training in the school setting. Classroom labs feature a replica doctor’s office, retail and hospital pharmacy, and hospital and long-term care patient rooms. A general health science lab is also included. The same holds true for the law and public safety program, where students interested in criminal justice put theory to work in a mock courtroom. Careers in law enforcement are explored as students utilize areas designated for evidence and armory storage and emergency dispatch training. “I have added ‘tour guide’ to my duties, and I love taking visitors through our new high school,” Mark McClure, director of Career and Technical Education said. “I am a Cleburne graduate and so proud of what our community has provided for our students now, and in the future. We have state of the art facilities that have taken the learning environment at CHS to a whole new level.”

“From parents to business leaders and alumni we continue to hear how impressed they are with the new campus and what it means for our students, as well as the Cleburne community,” McClure said. “It’s been especially exciting to see the reactions of college and university representatives as they tour the school and our CTE facilities. We have students graduating with industry-standard certifications in a variety of fields, which is not something offered at every high school in the area or region.” Cleburne Mayor Scott Cain, who is a CHS alumnus, was among the members of the Citizens’ Bond Committee who designed the landmark bond referendum to include a new high school, which was passed by voters in 2016. “I am very proud of the new High School facilities our community approved,” Cain said. “As mayor, I know how important a high school is for community spirit and pride. For only the third time in our history, the community was very involved in the whole process, from the beginning, and should be very proud of the final product. The CISD staff, from Superintendent Dr. Kyle Heath and the school board to the teachers and students involved in the process did an incredible job of capturing the history of CHS and the community while creating a twenty-first century, stateof-the-art learning facility that will prepare our students for college and career. As a CHS alumnus, I am especially proud to be a Yellow Jacket! It is a great day in Cleburne and with the new high school, Cleburne will continue to have great days for decades to come.”

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The original CHS Career and Technical Center, which experienced its share of modifications since first welcoming students in 1976, has been returned to its intended use, with large lab spaces conducive to handson learning. The CTE Center offers instruction and training in agriculture science, engineering and robotics, information technology, architecture/construction and manufacturing. Industry-standard equipment provides students with the hands-on experience and training to enter the job market above entry level. Cleburne is one of the few high schools in the state operating an on-site Massachusetts Institute of Technology Fabrication Lab. Housed within the engineering program, the 3,000 square foot space which includes a 28-station dedicated computer-aided design lab with two Makerbot 3D printers and a Stratasys industry level 3D printer. The CAD lab features a wind tunnel, used to test prototypes, and various electronic training devices. In the Fab Lab workspace, future engineers have access to a three-ton press, MIG welders and a variety of industry-standard saws. The equipment lineup also includes an Epilog laser engraver, Roland CNC mill and a CNC router.

This year, the Fab Lab will be linking with a new learning opportunity with the addition of an unmanned aircraft systems component. Engineering Design and Presentation II and senior-level Engineering Design and Problem Solving students will soon be able to achieve the FAA 107 drone pilot certification. Instruction to be introduced in the second semester of 2019-20 will be focused on drone trainingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and all the aspects involved in ultimately achieving the industry-level pilot certification. The Fab Lab will allow students to design a drone, create it using the 3D printer and install flight components to ultimately operate a drone they built themselves. Cleburneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health science program is also expanding this year to include a senior-level dental hygiene certification class, adding to the ever-growing list of industry-standard certifications available to students. The ongoing high school construction project will pass a major milestone in August 2019 with completion of the Jeff D. Cody Arena. The 38,000 square foot structure rises above the campus, providing seating for 2,700 as the new home of Cleburne volleyball and basketball, while also serving as an event center for school and community. New athletic facilities also include the baseball and softball complex, the first project to be finished in time for the 2018 playing season. Now in its second year of

use, Cleburne has been the site of numerous tournaments and playoff games from around the county and region. The winning tradition of Jackets baseball has continued on its new home field, with Cleburne recording back-toback District Championships in 2018 and 2019. The final phase in the $122 million construction initiative is well underway as the former main building undergoes extensive remodeling to serve students as a CTE and fine arts facility. The Janice Evers TEAM School will be housed on the second floor, giving students in the district’s alternative high school more opportunities to participate in CTE. The project includes a new exterior entry and interior foyer for the Don Smith Performing Arts Center and a black box theater for dramatic arts productions including UIL One Act Play. New studios for beginning and advanced art students are included in the renovation design. The choir and band halls are being upgraded to allow for expanded rehearsal spaces and storage. A new marching pad, only steps from the band hall, is being utilized by the Golden Pride for the second year. A brick viewing tour, rising to 24 feet, now stands adjacent to the pad, giving band directors a bird’s eye view of Pride members as they work on their marching skills and formations. Cleburne’s BUZZ News will be broadcasting from its

new TV studio with the opening of this final phase of construction in January. The school’s radio station will also hit the airwaves. The relocation of the CHS Culinary Arts program to new facilities will give student chefs the opportunity to both develop and showcase their cooking and hospitality skills in the operation of a bistro, which will be open to the community on specified days. Expanded classroom and lab space will also allow culinary arts to expand catering services. “We are so very grateful to our community and our Board of Trustees for the vision and support of Bond 2016, which has resulted in this amazing center for learning,” Superintendent Dr. Kyle Heath said. “This school is shaping and preparing students for success now and decades to come. I think the excitement and pride we are experiencing today is much like what Cleburne saw 100 years ago when the 1919 campus opened its doors. It put Cleburne on the map then, as a premier school of education and I believe history will be repeating itself with the new CHS.” The completion, and occupancy, of the final phase of construction will occur in January 2020 when students return for the second semester of the school year. The District has planned a ribbon cutting celebration ceremony and open house for January 5. JCL

The classic facade of the campus pays homage to the Cleburne High School of 1919

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HILL COLLEGE STUDENT SUCCESS SPOTLIGHT Angela Trompler

Provided by Hill College

ngela Trompler planned to attend a university on a softball scholarship, but it all changed with an injury. “I was lost and unsure on what to do next, so I opted to give Hill College a try until I came up with a plan,” said Trompler. “Little did I know, Hill College was able to offer me nursing school while staying close to home and working.” She started at Hill College as a Burleson Opportunity Fund recipient, intending just to work on her prerequisites for nursing, then continued to the Vocational Nursing (LVN) program and onto the LVN to Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) transition program. Now, she is the nurse manager of a medical oncology unit at Texas Health Huguley. Her favorite thing about Hill College was that it was close to home and easy to navigate. “It was a home-like atmosphere where you got to know the instructors and the students you were attending with.” “Give it a try,” says Trompler when asked what she would say to others considering Hill College. “There are so many options available while allowing you to stay close to your roots and working at the same time. It’s nice to continue working in the same community I grew up in.”

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The Hill College Associate Degree Nursing Program is a year 60-hour Associate of Applied Science degree. The ADN program received 100 percent pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) this year, with all 11 students passing on their first attempt. The Vocational Nursing program is a one-year, 47/48 credit hour curriculum leading to a Certificate of Completion. The LVN program is accredited by the Board of Nursing (BON) for the State of Texas and is designed to provide the student with the skill and knowledge required to pass the NCLEX-PN. The program earned a 100 percent first time pass rate on the 2017 (NCLEX-PN). This rate far surpasses the state average of 86 percent, and the national average of 83.85 percent. The Hill College Nursing program offers the highest quality health-related education and training to students of our community and surrounding areas. The program offers students the ability to dedicate themselves to increase their knowledge and developing their talents thus allowing them to become highly skilled nurses able to provide patient-centered care in hospitals or other health care facilities. For more information about the program, please visit www.hillcollege.edu/nursing.

Hill College Associate Degree Nursing students receive 100 percent pass rate Hill College Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) students received 100 percent pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), with all 11 students passing on their first attempt. “Of the 11 students who took the exam, eight took only the minimum number of questions, which means they aced the exam,” said Dean of Health and Community Services Lori Moseley. “I am extremely proud of these students; they will make excellent Registered Nurses. I am so blessed to have the dedicated faculty in the Professional Nursing program. They are knowledgeable and excellent instructors but even more they are dedicated to excellence in nursing,” said Moseley. “I am very proud of the accomplishments of our ADN students and for the sacrifices that they have made to not only pass their state boards, but also excel in their endeavors,” said Hill College President Dr. Pam Boehm. “The dedicated nursing faculty and staff are to be commended for such excellent student accomplishments and truly exemplify excellence in the classroom and clinical facilities. I congratulate the students, faculty and staff in all of our nursing programs on a job well done.” The Hill College Associate Degree Nursing program is a year 60-hour Associate of Applied Science degree. The program offers the highest quality health-related education and training to students of our community and surrounding areas. The program offers students the ability to dedicate themselves to increase their knowledge and developing their talents thus allowing them to become highly skilled nurses able to provide patient-centered care in hospitals or other health care facilities. For more information, please visit www.hillcollege.edu/rn. JCL

HILL COLLEGE NURSING PROGRAM RANKED SIXTH IN THE STATE The Hill College nursing programs have been ranked sixth in the state with a grade of 94.44 percent based on a study done by RNCareers.org. There are 58 Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) programs offered in Texas, and 1,892 ADN programs evaluated nationwide. Ranking is based on students first-time NCLEX passing rates, accreditation by the ACEN and CCNE, program offerings and more. The average NCLEX-RN passing rate is 85.90 percent. Hill College ADN’s NCLEX-RN pass rate for 2018 is 100 percent. The Hill College Nursing program offers the highest quality health-related education and training to students of our community and surrounding areas. The programs are offered in a combination of delivery methods, including face-to-face, hybrid and online courses. The ADN Program is a 60-hour Associate of Applied Science degree that typically takes two years to complete. The program offers students the ability to dedicate themselves to increase their knowledge and developing their talents thus allowing them to become highly skilled nurses able to provide patient-centered care in hospitals or other health care facilities. The Vocational Nursing (VN) Program is a 48/49-credit hour curriculum leading to a Certificate of Completion that typically takes one year to complete. The VN Program is accredited by the Board of Nursing (BON) for the State of Texas and is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge required to pass the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination - Vocational Nursing). To learn more, please visit www.hillcollege. edu/nursing, or contact Julie Britton at jbritton@ hillcollege.edu or 817.760.5921.

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Fall of Plenty By Janette Halliday | Photos provided by Enviroscapes, LLC

hh….fall…crisp, cooler temperatures, changing fall foliage and everything pumpkin and spice. While you may have spent the spring and summer maintaining your landscaping, the needs to preserve all your hard work will require some changes with the change of seasons. Most landscape professionals will agree that having a plan is your first course of action-planning with the end goal in mind. This includes assessing what you currently have and what you want to have for fall and winter.

Go native!

It’s always easier to work with what is natural for the habitat-meaning it’s highly recommended that when you are planning on planting for the fall and winter, consider native plant and adaptive plant species. These plants

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will help you conserve water, reduce stormwater runoff, prevent water pollution and can provide wildlife habitat. Native plants are also well adapted to the Texas heat, drought tolerant, pest and disease resistant. They can be attractive to animals and insects that are beneficial. No matter what point you are starting from, you can add ease, comfort, and enjoyment to your yard or garden by using native and adapted plants. Think about plant choices that will quickly establish themselves and utilize water and less of it. Part of your planting consideration might be to include trees with the best months for planting being September, October, and November because in these months, trees tend to concentrate on root growth in order to prepare their leafy, above-ground development in the spring.

Cover it up!

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s common senseâ&#x20AC;Ś.cooler weather means warmer clothing. Plants are no different. Using mulch in the fall can help protect the root systems of your plants. The use of mulch can help reduce water loss from the soil, maintain soil temperatures, reduce weed growth and help lessen soil erosion. In the summer, the hot, dry Texas sun and wind contribute considerably to the rapid evaporation from the soil. Water also soaks into mulch instead of running off as it often does on uncovered soil. So, going into fall, mulch can help provide a barrier that slows the evaporation and retains the warmth of the topsoil when cold temperatures arrive. Mulching helps reduce soil cracking that tears roots and stresses plants as most plant roots will absorb water and nutrients close to the surface. The temperature of the soil is kept cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter by the use of mulch. By keeping the temperature and moisture level even, mulch can help reduce plant stress, which makes plants less susceptible to diseases. It is recommended to use about three inches around beds and trees and can come from a variety of sources like yard waste, plant debris or commercial products available from nursery or home improvement retailers.

To cut or not to cut?

While it might seem smart to trim away excess, landscapers also advise to avoid excessive pruning of your shrubbery. Pruning plants is similar to an open wound in a human. Pruning is cutting that causes injury to plants, and, like humans, cut tissue should have sufficient time to heal. If you prune in the fall, it creates an open wound that require a longer time to heal, therefore, inviting entry for insects, disease and rotting. If you think you should, the best time is to wait until late winter because the wound happens just before a season of growth the plants can start the repair process. Pruning is part of an overall plant health maintenance program. It is important to remember that a pruning cut does result in an injury to the plant. Just like in humans, cut tissue is wounded and time is needed for it to heal. Fall pruning creates an open wound for a longer period of time.

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A little wet goes a long way

Landscape pros caution about overwatering going into the fall season. With cooler temperatures, excessive watering is not as necessary. Being careful to not overwater your landscaping has many advantages of saving water, saving money, and promoting a healthy root system, and the less obvious benefit of preventing pollution from getting into our streams and lakes. A good point to remember is that hand watering your plants along with mulching before a cold spell will give your plants the chance to replace the moisture depleted from a drying wind. However, overwatering can increase any chance of diseases appearing on your plants. As the days grow shorter and temperatures get cooler, plant growth will slow down, meaning less water is needed. A general rule of thumb is to reduce your watering schedule by about 50 percent. A good way to know when you should water is to test your soil. An easy way to test soil wetness is by probing with a stick or small piece of rebar. If the top four inches of soil is wet or muddy, do not water. If the probe comes out dry on the end, it may be time to water. Check the weather before watering because if it is going to rain in a day or two then you could save

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yourself the time and money. While it sounds contradictory, well hydrated soil actually insulates a plant’s roots much better than dry soil.

It ’s cold outside

Preparing your plants for winter is just that— preparation. A temperature has to dip below 30 degrees before you really need to be concerned. It’s advised before you move any plants inside, water them well and let drain. Overwatering will potentially hurt any surfaces and invite disease. The combination of watering and the warmer inside temperatures should be enough to keep your plants safe during typically mild winters. However, as Texas weather is noted for changing, mild might not always be the case. One tip to consider is taking a cutting from your favorites generally about a week before anticipated cold weather. This can help ensure you have something of your favorites in case the cold weather wins out. Cutting are usually easy to keep alive and multiply in a warmer environment. For additional resources to help you through the colder Texas temperatures and your plants, check Texas Smart Scape. This is a great resource that provides guides for watering and conservation as well as a plant data base to see what plants will bloom in the fall and winter. JCL

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Take the Trip! (But plan it carefully!) By Heather Regula

y dad's job with the State Department gave our family the incredible gift of worldly travel. I grew up in foreign lands and was fortunate enough to travel frequently. As a result, my soul longs for adventure and exploration! The Army landed me here in the Great State of Texas about twenty years ago, and I've spent my years since exploring this state and other parts of the country. The idiom "itchy feet" refers to someone who has a "marked

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desire to travel or move from one place to another". While I am grateful to have settled down here, my soul still longs for adventure and travel. I crave it. So I continue to travel and explore new places, as often as I can, and I encourage you to do so as well! Organizing a trip can be daunting, but the process is made easier by investing some times and energy into planning and preparation. Keep in mind some simple tips to ensure the maximum enjoyment of the trip!

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"To travel is to live" - Hans Christian Andersen

Home Sweet Home: Pets & Plants

Who is going to watch Fido and Fifi while you're going? Will your plants survive your vacation without you there to take care of them? After years of boarding our dogs and taking plants over to neighbors while we are gone, we have started paying a house sitter to stay at our house and take care of things for us. Our housesitter is a friend's 20-somethingdaughter who loves helping us out! I usually figure out what I would spend on the boarding of animals and pay her about half of that in cash (usually about $100 for five days). I stock the fridge and pantry with some of her favorites foods and beverages, creating a win-win situation!Â

Flying

Check with the airlines and avoid the peak travel dates if possible. This is sage advice; however, I will embrace the suck and travel on any day necessary so that I can take the trip! Plan connections thoughtfully and check several different airlines before booking tickets. Before kids, I used to fly the cheapest way possible and if that meant a stop or two before arriving at my destination, then so be it. Now that I have two kids and a husband who hates flying, I opt for paying extra and taking the non-stop route whenever I can. I'd rather spend less time traveling so I can spend more time where we are going! As you travel, teach your kids how to navigate airports, check-in, maneuver through security and so onâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;they'll travel better as adults, and you'll be glad you spent the time teaching them how to travel!

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Don't forget to double-check with airlines regarding weight limits and size requirements for luggage. Review the critical TSA rules regarding what can be brought onto a plane.

Driving

Reminiscing on life before kids once again... I used to just get in the car and go. When I got tired at night, I would stop at a hotel for the night wherever it was convenient. Those days are over for me, and I plan the hotel stays just as carefully as I plan the route we are driving! Taking a look at the entire driving route beforehand and intentionally deciding where to stop allows for time to find the best deal online for a hotel - be sure to ask for a military discount, AAA discount, educator discount, or anything else you might qualify for! There are lots of ways to save money out there and sometimes you need to ask for the discount!

Entertainment

Holiday travel can be tricky for many reasons, but mainly because while you might be on vacation with your kids while they are out of school, Aunt Maude and Uncle Henry might still be working while you're there. I don't know about your house, but in mine, kids sitting around for extended periods tend to get restless and irritated with each other! I do my best to be proactive with that and plan for our local adventures while we are there! Do some research before you leave and have a list of places you want to check out while you're there! I get lots of kid input here by asking my girls to look online and find a few things that interest them. Letting the kids be part of the planning process creates buy-in and excited for the vacation overall.

Be patient and give grace freely

My family flies Southwest Airlines, and I book hotels through Southwest as often as possible. I do earn points by doing so, but I've found that sometimes I receive an unexpected freebie from the hotel! Last summer, we stayed at the Camelback Inn in Scottsdale, AZ. I booked our room through Southwest like I usually do and I was pleasantly surprised when I was handed a $50 gift card for their restaurant at check-in for using Booking.com (many airlines use this site)! When looking for a hotel, I scour the internet for hotels with two things - a pool (indoor if possible!) and free breakfast. Kids always appreciate the opportunity to swim after a long day in the car, and the idea of feeding my family of six breakfast for free is appealing! Meals on the road are another thing I plan ahead of time. We usually bring a cooler and sandwich makings and stop somewhere so we can stretch our legs and eat. It's less expensive to bring our own food for the road, and everyone eats healthier.

Pack wisely

A few weeks before a trip, I add my destination city to the weather app and start keeping an eye on the weather there. My girls are teenagers now, but I still have them lay out the clothes they are going to bring and talk me through the outfits. I'd rather annoy them now by double-checking them than deal with them not having what they need when they get there. My general rule of thumb for them is enough undergarments for each day and at least one additional pair of shoes.

This is the most significant piece of advice I have for you. You've worked hard to plan your trip, and everyone is excited to go! I hold family meetings before we leave, and we talk about patience and what it looks like. We come up with a few things that the kids can predict might cause us to get irritated or impatient, and we troubleshoot those ahead of time. The most significant talk we have is about grace and what it looks, feels, and sounds like. We primarily talk about how we need to have an endless supply of it. You will never regret taking the trip. JCL

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THE

EUGENE V. THOMSEN

OBSERVATORY By Charles Franklin Photos by DCollins Photography

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here is a pretty popular song that boasts about how big and bright the stars over Texas are. And throughout our stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history, many a man and woman have decided to call this land home once they laid on their backs and stared up at a clear night sky. Yes, the stars can be seen from anywhere, but they just seem to be a little bigger, and a little brighter in the Lone Star State. Some might even call themâ&#x20AC;ŚTexas sized.

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For as long as our great state has existed, people have stared into our wide skies and marveled at the beauty that lay beyond our world. From the Big and Little Dippers, to Orion’s Belt, to the North Star and countless other twinkling wonders, there is no shortage of fascinating views, if you only look up. And for those who love to study the stars, and get a closer look at them, there are many resources to do so. One such resource here in Johnson County, is the Thomsen Observatory, located at Southwest Adventist University in Keene, Texas. Named after Eugene V. Thomsen, a highly regarded language professor and former academic dean, the observatory was founded in 1984 and funded by alums such as Dennis and Connie Dickerson. Under the direction of a physics professor, Roy Campbell, countless observers came to the observatory to see the stars through a 20” Ritchie-Cretien reflecting telescope. Though a small town, Keene drew many scholars, star-lovers, and school groups—all enamored with the universe and its many wonders. Many students also enrolled in Campbell’s astronomy courses and assisted with his research. Each of these

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students eventually went their own way, but their stargazing experiences and the love of our mysterious universe stayed with them. This became evident when the observatory was forced to close shortly after Campbell left the university in 2000. With no one to step up and manage, the observatory was left without leadership for several years—and it was even damaged by vandals. It was then that the many alumni and community members came together and helped bring the Thomsen Observatory back to what it is today—a modernized facility with state-of-the-art equipment. Late last spring, the facility finally reopened and it now boasts a brand new 10” Thomsen-Hall telescope (complete with a CMOS camera, lenses, filters, and viewing screen that supports the refractor’s capability), which enables viewers to capture breath-taking views of the many faraway wonders of space. This is in addition to numerous other portable telescopes, including the Dickerson Meade 178-ED APO refractor and the Bo Walker Coronado Max70 H-alpha sun telescope, which all help to make extended viewing hours and star parties possible.

The observatory is now managed by Jerry Becker, a retired educator, who says that attendance is as good as ever—and so are requests for additional observing times for local schools, scouting troops, and church youth groups. Mr. Becker has also received requests from astrophotographers in the Metroplex to reserve scope time in order to photograph the night sky. “The Thomsen Observatory is a hidden gem that can be a great asset to education, from elementary to university level,” says Becker. At any given time at the Thomsen Observatory, and when the weather permits, many will gather at “Star Parties” or other events and find their favorite celestial wonders to stare at. “Wow’s” and “Ooooohhhh’s” and “Aaaaaaahhhh’s” can be heard as someone sees Saturn’s rings for the first time. And they argue that there must be a glow-in-the-dark sticker stuck to the lens of the telescope, because the clear, perfect vision of Saturn looks like something straight out of a picture book. Some viewers gasp as they experience the true beauty of the Omega Centauri, a globular cluster of 10 million stars, located about 17,000 light years from Earth. To the naked eye, the Omega Centauri seems like a small blur, but through a telescope at the Thomsen Observatory, it becomes a gorgeous ball of stars that looks like shards of glass or a kaleidoscope. Some even say that this brilliant cluster of stars seems to come alive and move if you stare at it long enough!

The observatory is for anyone who loves to learn new things, see new sights, and reach out to something bigger than oneself.

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Elementary school classes will come to look at the moon and try to count the craters on his face. They marvel at how close up it seems and some even think— for a half-second—that they can reach out and touch it. Their teachers herd them together and explain to them that the moon has so many craters, as opposed to the earth, because it has no atmosphere to protect it from impacting bodies. Others come to see the brilliant sparkling stars of NGC 4755, or “The Jewel Box” as it is commonly known. This open cluster contains over 100 stars and sits over 6,400 light years away from Earth. Some stargazers like to discuss which colors the three central stars of The Jewel Box are. No one ever agrees, though, because each pair of eyes sees the color of these stars differently! Many astronomers come to catch a glimpse of nebulae, or a cloud of gas and dust in outer space. One of the more popular nebulae is Eta Carinae Nebula, where the gaseous clouds are speckled with bright stars. Mix this in with winding slivers of darkness thoughout, and some viewers describe the Eta Carinae Nebula as a bit of “space heaven”, in which they could wander around for hours.

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There are countless touching stories about those who have journeyed to the Thomsen Observatory and finally got an up-close view of the mysteries that surround our planet. It is often a life-changing experience. As Eugene V. Thomsen’s daughter, Cristina, explained, “The observatory is for anyone who loves to learn new things, see new sights, and reach out to something bigger than oneself.” Cristina Thomsen, now the Library Director at Southwest Adventist University, was a major driving force behind the observatory’s reopening. Her pride in this facility named after her father is evident as she talks about the lives that the place has touched. While she looks forward to “roll-off” for other scopes that currently sit in storage, there is also a plan for observatory housing expansion so all equipment, computer, safe, etc. can be removed from the observatory floor. And there will also be additional educational offerings, such as astrophotography, and Scout and Pathfinder honors. One thing about the Thomsen Observatory that should not be left out is that all events are completely free. Donations are accepted on their website at www. swau.edu/observatory, but above all else, viewers are encouraged to bring their own telescopes and chairs as they join other enthusiasts as they relax and gaze out into space. Because there really are few places better than a little observatory, in a little town called Keene, to look at that big ol’ Texas sky. JCL

The Thomsen Observatory is a hidden gem that can be a great asset to education, from elementary to university level.

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Accents of Burleson ...........................................................60

Hill College ............................................................................... 7

Adams Tack ......................................................... Back Cover

Infinity Dance Center .......................................................... 111

Beaumont Ranch ................................................................118

Jeans, Jewels, and Jesus Boutique ............................... 81

Benage Dental Care ............................................................ 61

Johnson County Living .............................................. 81, 110

Berry Stewart Eye Center ................................................. 81

Joshua Deer Processing ...................................................60

Burger Bar .............................................................................. 71

Joshua YMCA .......................................................................110

Burleson Area Chamber of Commerce .........................5

K&S Barbeque ....................................................................... 71

CASA of Johnson County ................................................. 61

Keene ISD ..............................................................................80

Chisholm’s Restaurant ....................................................... 71

Loaf N Dog ............................................................................. 71

Classic Chevrolet Buick GMC Cleburne .........................2

Mallory Alyson Photography ........................................... 111

Cleburne Railroaders ......................................................16,17

Mitchell’s Carpet Center ..................................................105

Co-Ed Cuts............................................................................. 111

Modeana, Texas ................................................................... 38

Edward Jones - Andrea Kelly.......................................... 81

Optimal Pain & Regenerative Medicine .........................9

Educational Opportunity Center ................................... 91

Pathway Church ................................... Inside Back Cover

Enviroscapes Nursery & Landscaping .......................105

Pinnacle Bank ....................................................................... 39

Eric Priddy Photography .................................................90

Premier Homes .................................... Inside Front Cover

Family Toyota of Burleson ............................................... 29

RedFin Pools ........................................................................120

First Financial Bank ............................................................ 28

Roden Real Estate Group ...................................................3

First United Methodist Church Joshua ....................... 98

Stevan Buren Flooring ...................................................... 99

Fly By Night Cattle Co Steakhouse ............................. 70

Steve Keefer Photography ............................................... 91

Freedom Powersports ......................................................90

Strother & Strother Law Firm ........................................105

Godley ISD ....................................................................... 46,47

Top Texas Realty .................................................................. 111

Hard Eight BBQ ................................................................... 70

United Way of Johnson County ....................................118

Heritage Trails ...................................................................... 98

Williams Trew - Cody Lee ....................................................1

Hilco Civic Center ............................................................... 99

Zimmerer Kubota and Equipment................................ 80

Please thank these advertisers for making this publication possible! H O MET O W N L I V I NG A T I TS B EST

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