Parker County Lifestyle - Fall 2022

FALL 2022

WILLIAMS FAMILY: OVERCOMING ALL THE OBSTACLES

The two siblings started showing cattle with a heifer a piece in Eastland County, placing second in show at Houston and San Antonio events back in 2019.

AN ADOPTION STORY: A DIVINE INTERVENTION

Adoption is something that the Willis family recommends. Their story of adoption was divinely inspired and directed.

Matching Talent with Resources

A FORMULA FOR SUCCESS

JT Hill doesn’t fit the typical mold of a high school senior. The 17-year old Weatherford resident, Jake Tyler (otherwise known as JT) will talk passionately about his diversified interests - NASCAR racing, hunting and fishing, history and archeology lover, and team roping.

Presage Solutions is a premier Managed Service Provider (MSP) headquartered in Weatherford, Texas.

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• Hardware partner with the ability to assist with purchases of hardware, applications, or related technology

• Strategic planning services; helping to plan annual technology budgets and business growth needs

NORTH SIDE CELEBRATES 125 YEARS

The church celebrated its 125th anniversary on June 14 in both morning services, with many former staff members joining them for the day.

TIM LEWELLING - GROWING RELATIONSHIPS

As a player at Weatherford High School (WHS), a coach, master teacher, principal, and a member of the WHS Athletic Hall of Fame, Tim Lewelling inspires and encourages others.

LIGHTS CAMERA ACTION: SHELLY MOWERY

Shelly Mowery, a Parker County resident, an accomplished horsewoman and philanthropist, gives all in anything she does. Her experiences span from television broadcasting to non-profit work mixed with significant involvement in the equine industry.

MATCHING TALENT WITH RESOURCES -A FORMULA FOR SUCCESS

JT Hill doesn’t fit the typical mold of a high school senior. The 17-year old Weatherford resident, Jake Tyler (otherwise known as JT) will talk passionately about his diversified interests - NASCAR racing, hunting and fishing, history and archeology lover, and team roping.

MOTHER NATURE LIKES TO FIGHT MOTHER NATURE

It has been a crazy few years weather-wise for our trees. Some trees have still not fully recovered from "snowmageddon" and are now fighting a summer drought.

TARLETON SUCCESSFULLY MOVES TO DIVISION I

It’s Tarleton State University telling the rest of the country that we are setting our students up for the highest level of success attainable in every way possible.

WATER SAFETY TIPS FOR PETS

Is your pet eager to get in the water? Be sure to read these safety tips before diving in at the beach or pool with your furry friends. All open bodies of water, including pools, oceans, lakes, rivers, ponds, and even hot tubs can pose a threat to your pet if left unsupervised.

ABOUT THE COVER

Cover photo is of Bob Tallman, the voice of professional rodeo. To read more about the acclaimed announcer, turn to page 36.

Cover photo is of JT Hill, a high school senior and team roping header. To read more about JT’s many interests, turn to page 34.

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FALLING IN LOVE WITH FALL

While the change of colors and cool air is enough to enjoy, the fall months also bring their own season of activities and bucket lists.

PATHWAY REHABILITATION SPORTS THERAPY

Pathway is involved with sports therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy. They are currently providing these services in long-term care, home health care, inpatient acute care, and outpatient rehabilitation.

STARS AND STRIDES STABLES

We believe that some of the benefits of equine assisted therapy are immeasurable. We have seen riders do things such as take their first steps, speak for the first time, and accomplish things that they never dreamed possible.

CONTENTS

HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS: 2ND ANNUAL BROCK SPRING

WILLIAMS FAMILY: OVERCOMING ALL THE OBSTACLES

CLEAN INITIATIVE

Approximately 300 elementary students participated in a town clean-up drive founded by Brock kindergarten student, Georgia Lee Martin.

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The two siblings started showing cattle with a heifer a piece in Eastland County, placing second in show at Houston and San Antonio events back in 2019.

THE POWER OF OUR WORDS

God can pinpoint every failure and every sin, yet He chooses to celebrate us.

WEATHERFORD’S NASHVILLE STAR

The Weatherford native has contributed to 157 number one country singles and has sang back-up vocals for over 20 years (on and off) for George Strait. His love for music started at the North Main Church of Christ.

AN ADOPTION STORY: A DIVINE INTERVENTION

Adoption is something that the Willis family recommends. Their story of adoption was divinely inspired and directed.

KINGSLEY ESTATE – A GIFT FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

Bob Kingsley began his professional career in 1958. After years of living in Los Angeles, we moved from California to Weatherford, Texas in 1995.

The leaves are turning and the temperatures are finally cooling off. It's a great time to be outside and enjoy time with family and friends. Go visit a local pumpkin patch or organize an old-fashioned hay ride. Parker County is the perfect place to make new holiday memories. As you plan your Thanksgiving and start your Christmas shopping, please visit your local shops and support our community businesses. And most of all, please remember what the holiday seasons are all about. We have a lot to be thankful for. From our family to yours, we wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas!

In this edition you’ll read about North Side Baptist Church celebrating their 125th anniversary this year! You will also read about Wes Hightower, a Weatherford native who has contributed to 157 number one country singles and has sung back-up vocals for over 20 years (on and off) for George Strait…not to mention he is part of the Weatherford

I.S.D. Athletic Hall of Fame for a successful year with the 1981/1982 tennis team.

We want to thank our advertisers for making this publication possible and free to the community! We thank you so much for your continued support! 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 let us know if you have any stories you would like to read in the next issue. We would love to hear from you!

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 blessingsJustin and Hayley Six Kyle and Halsey Clark

Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him. Romans 4: 7-8 #parkercountylifestyle

PUBLISHER RedFin Publishing

Justin & Hayley Six Kyle & Halsey Clark

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Hayley Six

CREATIVE | DESIGN GreenFox Marketing

CONTENT COORDINATOR Marybelle Gomez Marybelle.RedFin@gmail.com

PROOF READER Jennifer Cabbage

PHOTOGRAPHERS Rani Bryant Jesse Martinez

COVER PHOTO Cover Photo by Joe Duty

SALES Lori Stephens 806.202.7516

Lori.Redfin@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING Lindsay L. Allen

WRITERS Peggy Purser Freeman

Jannette Halliday

Martha Helton

Timothy McKeown

Allen Taylor Erica Willis

CONTRIBUTORS Hartin Tree Service Riverstone Veterinary Clinic

Parker County LifeStyle© is published semi-annually by RedFin Publishing. www.redfinpublishing.com P.O. Box 1239 | Weatherford, TX 76086 817-618-9465

Celebrates North Side

By Allen Taylor

Photos Provided By North Side Baptist

THE CHURCH CELEBRATED ITS 125TH ANNIVERSARY ON JUNE 14 IN BOTH MORNING SERVICES, WITH MANY FORMER STAFF MEMBERS

JOINING THEM FOR THE DAY.

From humble beginnings North Side Baptist Church became a foundation in the worshiping community in Weatherford and Parker County. Now, 125 years strong, North Side is known for many things, stability, congregational strength, and contributions to the community, among them.

"I think the answer has to be our people. We have been blessed with some incredible church members through the years who love this city and serve tirelessly," said Executive Pastor Keith Warren. "This spirit of service has become entrenched in who we are.

"In our current posture toward the community, we have sought to serve in any way possible. We are generous supporters of local schools, ministries, and benevolent organizations. But all of those efforts come back to the people. It’s the people of NSBC that make us who we are."

The church celebrated its 125th anniversary on June 14 in both morning services, with many former staff members joining them for the day.

WE HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH SOME INCREDIBLE CHURCH MEMBERS THROUGH THE YEARS WHO LOVE THIS CITY AND SERVE TIRELESSLY.

"We had pastors, worship leaders, and other staff going all the way back to the early 1980’s. It was quite a celebration," Warren said.

In 1897, with the railroad dividing the town of Weatherford, the Baptists living on the north side of the railroad tracks joined together to form their own church. Second Baptist Church was established on the southwest corner of First Street and North Main Street (where the current church's west Lot parking is located).

Eleven years later, under the leadership of Pastor B.G. Fronabarger, Second Baptist Church became North Side Baptist Church. As the church grew, additions were made to the original buildings and a Ladies Aid and Missionary Society was founded.

C.H. Ray became pastor of North Side in 1912. The church purchased property on the east side of North Main Street and built a three-story, red brick building at its current location in 1917. Ray also organized a band and an orchestra, and North Side Baptist Church became known as “the most interesting place in town.”

In 1925, the church built an open-air tabernacle south of the sanctuary to share with other congregations for revival meetings.

During World War II, members of NSBC aided the soldiers at Fort Wolters in Mineral Wells and helped to establish the first chapel there under the leadership of Pastor Glenn Bales.

In 1960, when Bob McPherson was pastor, a new sanctuary was completed on the grounds adjacent to the tabernacle and the sanctuary space in the enclosed tabernacle was remodeled into educational space. The front of this new, modern sanctuary was known for its stained glass with a modern storefront construction.

Joe Griffin was pastor from 1961 to 1981. During that time, North Side enjoyed consistent growth and ministry, and again expanded its facility. A new educational building with offices, a choir suite, and upstairs classrooms was built during Griffin’s tenure. In addition, a chapel, fellowship hall, and kitchen, as well as several additional classrooms were constructed within the tabernacle building (this would later become the current fellowship hall and chapel).

IN 1925, THE CHURCH BUILT AN OPEN-AIR TABERNACLE SOUTH OF THE SANCTUARY TO SHARE WITH OTHER CONGREGATIONS FOR REVIVAL MEETINGS.

Another key remodeling project was completed in 1989 after Don Emmitte became pastor. This included completely refurbishing the existing sanctuary and adding beautiful woodwork details. The church’s new focal point became a 75-foot white cross which could be seen from many locations around Weatherford.

Completed in 1998, the Community Life Center (later renamed the John Allen Gym) has become a regular hub of activity, hosting many church and community events throughout the year. Besides a gymnasium and full kitchen, this space includes several classrooms.

In all there have been four "moves" but only one address change for the church. The fourth time was the move into the new worship center in 2010.

Van N. Houser is the 21st pastor of NSBC, and the longest serving at 24 years. Gary Wood was the longest serving staff member at 34 years before his retirement in 2018.

'“I Thank God for the Lighthouse!” The first time I heard that song written by Sonny Hinson and sung by the Gaithers, my mind overflowed with the impact of a church on a community," Houser said. "I thought of the many times a church stood as a lighthouse in my life. My mind went directly to this song when I considered how to describe North Side Baptist Church. Especially when I thought of the large cross that stands outside our worship center.

"For 125 years, North Side Baptist Church has been a lighthouse to Weatherford, Parker County and beyond. The history of North Side is filled with the names of individuals who kept the light of the Gospel shining brightly for all to see. That Gospel of grace brought hope to the hopeless, comfort to the grieving, support to the weak and salvation to the lost."

"WE HAVE FAMILIES WITH FOUR GENERATIONS THAT ALL WORSHIP TOGETHER. WE HAVE FAMILIES THAT HAVE HAD FOUR GENERATIONS BAPTIZED HERE.”

Warren noted that each of the many churches in Parker County is special in some way. NSBC, he said, has sought to be “a church for every generation."

"We see this as having two core components. One, that in our 125-year history we have ministered to every generation that has called Weatherford home. The second is our current congregation serves every living generation," he said.

"We have families with four generations that all worship together. We have families that have had four generations baptized here.”

North Side has served the community in many ways throughout its history. Just a few include facilitating adoptions through Fort Walters, the construction of the tabernacle in 1925 for community use, and pastors have hosted community services with other churches.

It’s a theme that has been present throughout the history of the church. Today, they serve local school districts, host Camp Hope events locally, provide over 140 backpacks of food to local students each weekend during the school year, serve at Center of Hope and more.

It’s a lengthy list.

Over its history, North Side has grown from a few families to over 3,000 active members today. In 2015 it was named one of the 100 fastest growing churches in America.

Among the many ways North Side has grown is in its technology department.

"We were fortunate to begin streaming our worship services when we opened the worship center in 2010. We’ve been blessed to have many within our staff and congregation who were eager to learn new technologies and implement them with our church," Warren said.

This led to assisting other churches with their technology development through the years, even to the point of installing gear for some smaller churches in the county.

"NSBC has continually sought to be open-handed with our resources and expertise to benefit the church at large, not just our local congregation," Warren said.

Never was this more apparent than when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. NSBC stepped up and helped other churches broadcast to their congregation while they remained safe at home.

"Some of our smaller churches needed assistance getting a streaming solution in place, and our team assisted them early on in the pandemic," Warren said. "We also opened our kitchen and utilized our relationship with local food service companies to provide meals to local residents, through a drive-through system and home delivery.

"Like many others in our county, our members helped their neighbors and simply did what was needed in each situation."

As for what lies ahead, Warren said NSBC will keep on doing what it is known for, serving its members and the community, adapting as needed, always with the best interest of people needing their services first and foremost.

"Our heart is to be forward-looking, with an emphasis that our best days are in front of us. We will adapt as needed to the growing and changing community, while remaining true to scripture and our calling as the body of Christ," he said. "I expect that as Weatherford continues to grow, we will add buildings as needed to accommodate that growth within our own congregation.

"It’s an exciting time to live in Parker County!" PCLS

VAN N. HOUSER IS THE 21ST PASTOR OF NSBC, AND THE LONGEST SERVING AT 24 YEARS.

IN 2015 IT WAS NAMED ONE OF THE 100 FASTEST GROWING CHURCHES IN AMERICA.

OUR HEART IS TO BE FORWARDLOOKING, WITH AN EMPHASIS THAT OUR BEST DAYS ARE IN FRONT OF US.

C LA &

Guided Pathways is a national initiative designed to remove roadblocks for students in their pursuit of higher education degrees and certificates. At Weatherford College, we care about your success and we strive to guide you on a direct path to reaching your overall goals with the least amount of obstacles.

TIM

GROWING RELATIONSHIPS Lewelling

By Peggy Sue Freeman

Coach Lew shares his passion for life—his love of sports, music, God, and country.

Tim Lewelling spends his retirement on the Parker County farm where he was born, making the world a better place. From the four-room farmhouse to Weatherford High School and beyond, “Coach Lew” accomplished almost every goal he set for himself, and some he never dreamed. As a player at Weatherford High School (WHS), a coach, master teacher, principal, and a member of the WHS Athletic Hall of Fame, Tim Lewelling inspires and encourages others.

When you meet Coach Lew, you know three things—he loves God, people, and Texas. In his book Avalon of the Heart (Hamilton Printing 2020), Coach wrote, “Being born in Texas makes a person walk around with their head up and chest out.”

LaVerne Clark Lewelling and Louis Lewelling, Jr. left their son a strong work ethic, love of knowledge, and the family farm with the

As a player at Weatherford High School (WHS), a coach, master teacher, principal, and a member of the WHS Athletic Hall of Fame, Tim Lewelling inspires and encourages others.

Photos Provided by Tim Lewelling

best spread of bluebonnets in Parker County.

“My first memory was mom, the bathtub, and Jesus,” Coach shared his memories. “She heated water and poured it into the old tub so I could take a warm bath. Then as I soaked, she read me Bible stories. To this day I can visualize her reading and telling me those stories about Jesus and him being the Savior of this world. At age twelve the farm was my best friend. My Dad purchased it in 1957. In my teen years, my life on the farm included waking up at 6:30 am, breakfast, and work. Fortunately, my father noticed I had a gift for throwing things, especially a football. My parents never missed a high school or college game, even when I didn’t get to play.”

There are many relationships that influenced Tim Lewelling’s life. Coach Harold Barrett shaped him to be a leader.

“Coach Barrett was tougher than my dad. He demanded our attention and respect. At practice he would yell, ‘Pay the price! You’ve got to pay the price to be good.’ Texas high school football puts an enormous stress on the team quarterback,” Lewelling explained. “My junior year at Weatherford High the fear of failing became so strong, I almost gave up. I didn’t want to disappoint my school, my community, my parents, my friends, or myself. The easy way out would be to quit. The hard way would be to pay the price. A friend encouraged me. From that day forward I threw the football at least one hundred times a day, every day.”

“Being born in Texas makes a person walk around with their head up and chest out.”

Tim Lewelling held the passing record at Weatherford High School for forty-one years.

Early in Tim’s senior year his relationship with Coach Barrett changed. Barrett never asked an opinion about what play to run, but in the last game of the year, he asked Tim.

“We were behind 27-21 with two minutes remaining in the game. I threw a few passes, and we were on Vernon’s twoyard-line with two seconds left on the play clock. I burned our last time out, asking Coach Barrett what he wanted to do. He asked, ‘What do you want to do?’ I said I wanted to run a slant pass. His answer, ‘Go do it!’ We scored, kicked the extra point, and won. Later, he handed me that game ball. In my high school annual he wrote, ‘Tim, you paid the price.’”

Tim Lewelling held the passing record at Weatherford High School for forty-one years. He paid the price each year until he was injured in his junior year at Northwestern University. He went on to earn his degree at Tarleton State University and got his master’s in Physical Education.

In 1979 Tim Lewelling began the career of his heart at Trimble Tech High School in Fort Worth as junior varsity coach. The head coach, Dean Stacy, called Lewelling into his office and said, “I need to tell you the team you will be coaching has a record of no wins and ten losses. And you don’t have a quarterback.” Coach Lew flipped that team’s record from zero wins and ten losses to six wins and four losses in his first year.

Having served in Afghanistan, Sgt.

Diana Vasquez (Sgt. V), US Army, volunteered for Iraq where a Humvee in a convoy exploded. Diana survived but suffered head injuries and PSTD.

“If a coach tells you he doesn’t have a favorite student, don’t believe it.” The difficulty for this teacher/coach is he has too many favorites. Coach Lewelling’s years at DeLeon High School especially touched his heart, as it does all who read his book. “Chad Nabors was the hardest working football player I ever coached.” Coach paused after that statement—emotion still strong. “His senior year our team was 12-1. Chad gave his best, whether it be in practice or a game. Most days he would stay on the field and run practice drills. I usually had to tell him to stop. After that year, I moved to Weatherford. In his 20s, Chad called me to tell me he had leukemia. He often called just to tell me what he was going through…how he was

going to beat it. I always tried to encourage him. One day he started to cry, telling me he had only a short time to live. ‘This cancer is going to win,’ he said. I didn’t know what to say. I answered with the only truthful thing I could. ‘Chad you’re wrong. You’re going to win! You see we are all running a race to Heaven and all you’re going to do is beat me there. You win!’ Chad was special.”

The easy way out would be to quit. The hard way would be to pay the price.

Another student that showcases the relationships Coach Lew makes with people in his life was Diana Vasquez, also from DeLeon. Coach Lew remembered worrying about this extraordinary young woman.

“As migrant workers, her family spent the summer and early fall in the state of Wisconsin but came to Texas and stayed until spring. I worried for her. How would she ever get the credits to graduate? What would become of her. Many years later I found out. Diana is an American hero.”

Having served in Afghanistan, Sgt. Diana Vasquez (Sgt. V), US Army, volunteered for Iraq where a Humvee in a convoy exploded. Diana survived but suffered head injuries and PSTD. Thirty-seven surgeries later, she still needs medical treatment.

“I wrote my first poem in Coach Lew’s class,” Sgt. V said. “He has helped me through some difficult times. Without him, I’d never have published Stars, Stripes and the Sacrifice, my book of poems to share with others who suffer unseen wounds.” Coach Lew also hosted a fundraiser for Sgt. V., providing financial help for her medical costs.

Tim Lewelling’s love of music and musical gatherings has benefited many people. He performed with a lot of great sing-

“If a coach tells you he doesn’t have a favorite student, don’t believe it.” The difficulty for this teacher/coach is he has too many favorites.

ers and started events like Geezerfest in Gruene Hall, which is considered the oldest dance hall in Texas. In 2017, he started an event at the farm called Lewstock, which has raised thousands of dollars for individuals and non-profits, like the children’s homes in Parker County. He hosts the monthly musical events at Spring Creek Community Tabernacle and raises money to restore and preserve this historic structure.

So many of Tim Lewelling’s rewards for the good he has done, is doing, and will do won’t be received until he gets to that Heaven he speaks of so often. However, he did receive an exciting surprise in 2006.

“I got a phone call informing me that I had been entered in the Weatherford Athletic Hall of Fame,” Coach said. “This honor is at the top of my list.” Other accomplishments include 1973 Honorable Mention Prep All-American Football and multiple Forty-Two National Championships, songwriter, and author. His heart is his family—wife, Peggy, their children, grandchildren, and a fawn named John Deer. (Great story! It’s in his book, Avalon of the Heart.)

Joe Tusin, Tim’s high school principal says about Tim, “He has a passion for life driven by the love of his parents and his obsession to be successful whether as an athlete, coach, father, grandad, or bluebonnet expert.”

Coach Lew shares his passion for life—his love of sports, music, God, and country with everyone he meets. PCLS

So many of Tim Lewelling’s rewards for the good he has done, is doing, and will do won’t be received until he gets to that Heaven he speaks of so often.

LIGHTS CAMERA ACTION

Shelly Mowery

By Janette Halliday

SHELLY MOWERY, THE PARKER COUNTY RESIDENT, AN ACCOMPLISHED HORSEWOMAN AND PHILANTHROPIST, GIVES ALL IN ANYTHING SHE DOES. HER EXPERIENCES SPAN FROM TELEVISION BROADCASTING TO NON-PROFIT WORK MIXED WITH SIGNIFICANT INVOLVEMENT IN THE EQUINE INDUSTRY.

Shelly Mowery is an individual that will tell you like it is. It’s her mantra to start what she finishes, She diligently advocates education and fundraising for causes she is passionate about.

It’s that attitude that has set her apart from others in the multitude of her successful ventures.

he Parker County resident, an accomplished horsewoman and philanthropist, gives all in anything she does. She hangs many shingles outside her gate south of Weatherford. She will discuss any of them at length and her passion for them. She can readily recall any situation that got her to where she is today from her breadth of experiences spanning from television broadcasting to non-profit work mixed with significant involvement in the equine industry.

Photos provided by Shelly Mowery

EQUAL EFFORT SHOULD MEAN EQUAL PAY

The experienced horsewoman’s love for horses started as a young barrel racer growing up in Iowa. She would go onto rodeo queen pageant competition, competing as Miss Rodeo Iowa in the 1978 Miss Rodeo America pageant. She was named first runner-up, which secured her a full-ride college scholarship. A phone call from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association would change her path.

The Coors Brewing Company offered Mowery a position as the first Miss Coors Rodeo, working to facilitate sponsorships with professional rodeo as part of the Coors Chute-Out program. During her decade long tenure, from 1980-1989, she would attend over 150 professional rodeos throughout the United States and Canada, logging over 100,000 miles for Coors Brewing.

Mowery’s position allowed her to advocate obtaining equal prize money to women professional barrel racers in a typically male dominated rodeo industry in the mid70’s. It would be a hard-fought challenge and one Mowery refused to back down from, threatening to withdraw sponsorship money from Coors sponsored rodeos.

The equine broadcaster continued to utilize her experience and determination in making positive changes for professional rodeo. Close friend and Las Vegas, NV legacy, Benny Binion, enlisted her help to move the PRCA National Finals Rodeo go from its long-time home of Oklahoma City, OK to its current home of Las Vegas, NV. In 1985, that became a reality.

Her experience interviewing rodeo athletes as Miss Coors Rodeo, led her to become an equine sports broadcaster for every major network in the United States and Canada including NBC, CBS, ABC, Fox Sports, and Outdoor Life. She would earn a Telly Sports Award for her skills and reputation as a knowledgeable, insightful commentator.

CALLING HER NAME

An induction into any organization’s hall of fame should be considered an honor. Not many people can boast being an inductee in three different halls of fame. Mowery is one that can rightfully boast, but she won’t solicit that attention.

“It’s certainly an honor to be inducted. There’s a whole lot more to come after me that are very deserving. I am inducted under a category, primarily for my television and sponsorship work.”

The three organizations that have added her accomplishments to their hall of fame include: The Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame that recognizes Texas rodeo industry professionals. The National Cowgirl Hall of Fame which recognizes womens’ contributions to the western industry from athletes to lifestyle influencers. The National Cutting Horse Association Hall of Fame-inclusion requires nomination from multiple individuals and significant accomplishments within the NCHA.

The NCHA induction was the most recent, held during the NCHA Metallic Cat World Championship Futurity this past December in Ft. Worth.

“It’s certainly an honor to be recognized by being inducted. I am being recognized primarily for my television broadcasting for the sport and sponsorship work. I am honored to be recognized for my work in television broadcasting 25 years for the NCHA throughout the United States and helping raise sponsorship money for NCHA,” commented Mowery.

EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS

Her path to the cutting industry was not set about with intention; her experience was within the rodeo industry. Several years ago, while attending the New Mexico State Fair, her good friend Fern Sawyer, an avid horseman in her own right, would introduce Mowery to the world of cutting. A passion was discovered and Mowery dove deep into all things cutting- competing and researching top bloodlines that led to breeding and raising cutting horses.

“Parker County found me. I was always raised in Ft. Worth. Everyone was moving west. I liked the terrain, being 40 miles from the airport, access to great restaurants.”

She became a formidable cutting horse contestant. She campaigned her mare, “Some Kinda Playgirl,” winning multiple non-pro and amateur events. The mare became the star producer for Mowery Cutting Horses, the training and breeding facility she owns and operates with her husband Rick Mowery, of 26 years.

Mowery Cutting Horses is a family operation. Rick is an accomplished cutting horse trainer, NCHA judge, and breeder. Together they have a combined family of Rick’s sons Hayden, Gavin, Sheldon and her daughter, Sawyer who is also an NCHA competitor.

Some Kinda Playgirl put them on the map as breeders with Playgirl’s progeny earning over $1 million in NCHA earnings and earning the title of NCHA All-Time Leading Producer.

CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE

Mowery is not one to rest on her laurels. She constantly seeks ways to help others achieve their best life. Her combined experiences as a television commentator, performance horse rider and rodeo contestant has given her a large network comprised of celebrities and equine industry professionals across many genres, allowing her to raise awareness and funds for her causes.

Her non-profit work has included raising money for the Cariety Foundation, a cutting horse industry foundation that supports cancer survivors. The

foundation produces the annual Cariety Celebrity Cutting event during the NCHA Futurity-which Mowery has participated in for several years. She has served on several Parker County community organization boards including Child Protective Services and the Freedom House as well as serving on the board for PCCOA.

“Giving back is what we are really here for, it’s what life is about. For me it’s satisfaction and gratification to help someone. I was raised to always help others,” commented Mowery.

Mowery firmly believes in embracing any opportunity. She loves showcasing videos highlighting her daily activities ranging from interviews with wellknown western industry professionals to equine endeavors onto growing herbs and making pickles. She is especially interested in showing how to live their best life as an older adult. Her website www. westernlifestyles.com, gives her the opportunity to educate people with the videos. She is developing a YouTube channel to reach a wider audience.

She sees it as a vehicle to help Parker County. “This is where I live. This is my home. I think it will be a plus for people to see everyplace we are going to take them and show off behind the scenes in Parker County.”

With a commanding presence in the cutting industry, Shelly Mowery was inducted into the National Cutting Horse Association Members Hall of Fame in June 2021 with a recognition ceremony held in June 2022.

The NCHA recognizes those members who have exhibited effort and dedication in promoting cutting through breeding, raising, exhibiting and overall contributions to the sport.

This will the third hall of fame induction for Mowery, the other two being the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame and the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Mowery's career in equine broadcasting included covering major NCHA events. She is also recognized for her role as a cutting horse breeder as well as competitor, winning in the amateur/ non-pro divisions on her well known mare, Some Kinda Playgirl.

Location, Location, Location

Mowery didn’t set out to establish residency in Parker County.

“Parker County found me. I am one of those who threw a dart and got here. I liked the terrain, being 40 miles from the airport, access to great restaurants. It’s a nice place to come home. It (Parker County) has a country atmosphere,” she added. “It’s a great place to raise kids. The people here are hard workers.”

Operating the Mowery Ranch in Parker county has advantages. “It’s knowing the proximity. I appreciate the terrain in Parker County. The majority of the property is sandy loam and that is great for livestock. It’s a plus/plus situation.”

Mowery credits her success to every facet of the equine industry. Her future endeavors will make use of those and bring them back to her home in Parker county. PCLS

“It’s a nice place to come home. It (Parker County) has a country atmosphere. It’s a great place to raise kids. Knowing the proximity. I appreciate the terrain in Parker County. The majority of the property is sandy loam and that is great for livestock. It’s a plus/plus situation.”

“I am one of those what threw a dart and got here. Parker County is growing so fast. It’s a great place to raise kids. The people here are hard workers.”

2022 JUST GOT BRIGHTER!

Brighten your lives with a little Christmas magic and celebrate the season as Radiance! Texas l#1 DriveThrough Light Spectacular, returns for a THIRD MAGICAL YEAR to Parker County Sheriff’s Posse, Weatherford!

Gather the family and sip a cup of hot chocolate as you marvel at a cavalcade of sparking lights animated to the tunes of your favorite holiday classics from the comfort of your car!

See new, exciting scenes, a MILLION more lights, and a VIP option with faster access, a souvenir digital family photo in our light tunnel, and hot chocolate for all!

November 18 –

December 31

SCAN TO BUY TICKETS OR GO TO RadianceChristmas.com

@RadianceChristmas

Tickets and details are available at RadianceChristmas.com

Radiance! at the Ranch | Sheriff’s Posse Grounds | Weatherford, TX

Matching Talent with Resources

A FORMULA FOR SUCCESS

By Janette Halliday

Photos By Joe Duty and provided by Jennifer Hill

THE 17-YEAR OLD WEATHERFORD RESIDENT, JAKE TYLER (OTHERWISE KNOWN AS JT) WILL TALK PASSIONATELY ABOUT HIS DIVERSIFIED INTERESTS.

JT Hill doesn’t fit the typical mold of a high school senior. The 17-year old Weatherford resident, Jake Tyler (otherwise known as JT) will talk passionately about his diversified interests-NASCAR racing, hunting and fishing, history and archeology lover, and team roping.

What sets him apart is his firm foundation that formulates his plan for success in any endeavor he pursues.

It’s A Mindset

A majority of JT’s time is spent inside an arena perfecting his craft as a team roping header. He maximizes his time and energy utilizing the foundation established by his coaches and family. His father, Ronnie, one of his coaches and founder of Ronnie Hill Ministries, instilled in him the importance of his faith. He knows that winning is not guaranteed but reliance on faith will take him far regardless of how he finishes at the end of a run.

“We have taught him that God loves you regardless. There isn’t any pressure to win because he knows God is still going to love him,” stated Ronnie.

“FROM THE FIRST TIME I MET THIS YOUNG MAN, I WAS IMPRESSED. I FELT HIS COMFORT AND HAPPINESS OF LIFE: A PURE JOY TO WORK WITH AND TALENT GALORE!”

-RANDY CHARITER, RANDY CHARTIER CUTTING HORSES

“My faith, my walk with Christ…I prioritize before anything else. It certainly helps me be calm. And able to not worry. I know God is in control. You have to go into the arena with the intention to win.”

What’s In A Name?

The only child of Ronnie, a full-time evangelist and Jennifer Hill, an aerospace engineer, JT was named after friends, Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association ropers Jake Barnes, seven-time world champion team roping header and PRCA Cowboy Hall of Fame member and Matt Tyler, Wrangler National Finals contestant for 20 consecutive years and member of Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame.

While the namesake might predict good fortune, JT recalls he wasn’t as skilled as others when he started roping, but the love for the sport began after entering his first rodeo and has been hooked since.

JT competes in events sanctioned by the Texas High School Rodeo Association, the National Little Britches Rodeo Association, American Quarter Horse Association and is a member of the Young Smarty ProTeam and the Priefert Junior Elite Team.

His award list from roping speaks for itself, but perhaps the most significant one is earning the National Little Britches Rodeo Association World Champion and the Average Reserve Champion honor in Senior Boy Team Roping this past summer.

Credit Where Credit Is Due

Being a team player and a good partner is essential in team roping and JT gives credit where credit is due. “It’s all about having a good partner…having the confidence in your partner,” he explained. And, that partnership extends to the horses he uses.

JT has four partners integral to his success. His fourlegged teammates include Ghost, his 20-year old gray gelding that JT credits for starting his roping career and carrying him to his present success. He describes him as his “World Champion” in his ability to be at the right place at the right time, giving his partner the best advantage possible inside the arena.

“MY FAITH, MY WALK WITH CHRIST…I PRIORITIZE BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE. IT CERTAINLY HELPS ME BE CALM. AND ABLE TO NOT WORRY. I KNOW GOD IS IN CONTROL.”

The other distinguished teammates of the string, all registered AQHA athletes, serve a different role in his roping career. All of his horses fit different situations, steers and arenas.

Sixes, came from the 6666 Ranch and is used primarily for jackpot competition. The third teammate is Barry, known for his lightning speed and reputation to not let any steer outrun him. The fourth star of the team is Colonel, owned by JT’s dad, Ronnie, and known for his intelligence, easy going nature and being job savvy. JT and Colonel started together when he was young, and he is the definition of “reliable.”

Utilizing Resources While Contributing

JT knows that being at the top of the game means utilizing available resources. He considers living in Parker County as one of those assets. “Parker county is part of the rodeo center and Weatherford is known as the Cutting Capital of the World. I have access to trainers and good competition in Parker county,” he stated.

“YOU HAVE TO GO INTO THE ARENA WITH THE INTENTION TO WIN.”

He gives back to the community that gives to him and that contribution is part of what drives him. He has a special affinity for helping those with special needs. His involvement is varied from assisting with the Parker County Exceptional Rodeo, part of the Parker County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo, the Orange Out Rodeo that helps kids with cancer, the Tim Tebow Night to Shine for Parker county residents and the Greenwood Baptist Church’s Remarkable Evening. He organized a highly successful, school wide See You At the Pole event and has assisted in helping the homeless community in Ft. Worth.

JT’s mother describes his love for helping others- “JT has a heart for community and especially for those with special needs. We taught him from a very young age that everyone matters to God. My mom has cerebral palsy and I guess my heart rubbed off on his,” said Jennifer.

He also believes that you don’t become a world champion alone so he surrounds himself with professionals in the sport. Guiding him to be the best header possible, JT enlists the help from respected names in team ropingWrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifier Luke Brown and Allen Bach and family, the four-time Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association World Champion and PRCA Hall of Fame Inductee. He also credits his dad for daily coaching as well as help from Zane Bruce of Zane Bruce Performance Horses on the AQHA end.

While he made his name for himself as a team roper, he hasn’t always devoted his attention to just roping. He has competed in calf roping and cutting. Last year, he was actively cutting, training under Randy Chartier of Randy Chartier Cutting Horses in Millsap. They have common interests in attending Greenwood Baptist Church, where his father is on staff, but more importantly, the same outlook on life.

“From the first time I met this young man, I was impressed. I felt his comfort and happiness of life” A pure joy to work with and talent galore!” stated Chartier.  One of JT’s goals is to compete at the National High School Rodeo finals. He cites cutting improved his horsemanship in his roping. Yet, he ultimately knew that roping, versus cutting, would be the path he needed to follow to get there, so he chose to emphasize his efforts on team roping.

Digging Up The Past

JT recalls as a kid, when instructed to read the Bible, he took a different route than most. “As a kid, I wouldn’t read the normal books of the Bible, like John. I would read Kings and Chronicles that talk about the ancient history of Israel,” explained JT. That early learning has played a part in his choice of post high school agendas as he will pursue a degree at Baylor University, majoring in Anthropology and a minor in Religion. His ultimate educational goal is to obtain his doctorate in Archaeology and study at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Israel.

He is not waiting until graduation to further his education, as he will complete his Associate of Arts degree from Weatherford College this year.

JT will continue to build upon the foundation he has built with aspirations of achieving another NLBRA World title, winning the National High School Finals Rodeo and an AQHA Youth World title. PCLS

JT Hill's Rodeo Acheivements

NATIONAL LITTLE BRITCHES

RODEO ASSOCIATION:

World Champion-Sr. Boy Team Roping

Average Reserve Champion Sr. Boy Team Roping

Five-time National Finals Qualifier

Three-Time Short -Go Qualifier

NATIONAL ROPERS SUPPLY NATIONAL LITTLE BRITCHES RODEO ASSOCIATION:

Jr. Boy All-Around Champion

Texas High School Rodeo Association

Region Finals Champion

Three Time State Qualifier

North Texas High School Rodeo

Association Finals Champion

Junior World Finals-Top 5

Hooey Jr. Patriot Finals-Two-Time Qualifier, Reserve Champion and Top 3

American Quarter Horse Associatio Youth Reserve World Champion

WCRA DY Youth Header Point Champion

Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo Invitational Qualifier

ONE OF JT’S GOALS IS TO COMPETE AT THE NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL RODEO FINALS.

LIKES TO FIGHT MOTHER NATURE

MOTHER NATURE

Welcome to the crazy place I like to call "Tree World." It has been a crazy few years weather-wise for our trees. Some trees have still not fully recovered from "snowmageddon" and are now fighting a summer drought. Our trees just can't seem to catch a break. Many mature trees are falling apart due to confusion inside their vascular system. Get ready, because here comes a 7-year science lesson.

Approximately 7 years ago, the North Texas area had a 2-year drought. No biggie right? We live in Texas, and droughts happen all the time. However, here is the issue our trees are struggling with: trees dry up during that drought, and then the following 4 years we have an abundance of rain, so like a thirsty dog the trees drink up all that water so fast they can't circulate it fast enough. During this time you see trees growing lots of sucker growth in the bottom and the crowns of trees having limbs die out. This happens because the water is so thick in the trunk that the veins inside the tree are not strong

enough to circulate to the top of trees. The bark swells and cracks, so the chlorophyll (which keeps trees green) and iron (which keeps trees strong enough to stay alive and produce new growth) gets trapped on the water and comes out the first open pore it can find coming from the ground up.

Following the abundance of rain, we get a winter storm and a -2° freeze, so all that water inside the trees turns into ice. The ice collapses veins inside the trunks and root balls and even causes freezer burn in some species. Trees in North Texas are not generally made for such low temperatures and so when it happens, it sends "Tree World" into CHAOS.

Now we come to the present summer season. At the beginning of the season we had 2 straight months of consistent high winds and we are in the middle of another drought. Trees haven't recovered from the freeze and now

Approximately 7 years ago, the North Texas area had a 2-year drought.

PROVIDED BY RICKY HOWELL OF HARTIN TREE SERVICE

are trying to survive a completely different struggle for circulation systems. Freezer burn and dry wood blowing in high winds is not a good combination.

Never fear, there is a solution to help get trees stimulated and growing properly again. It's called trimming for circulation and sunlight. We have our expert consulting arborist come out and give a free consultation and estimate, followed by top of the line trimming and pruning. This process opens pores in the trees so that the sun can help trees circulate again. Once a tree can breathe properly, it’s amazing how beautiful they can be and healthy they become again. Get your trees taken care of today before they crash tomorrow.

This science lesson has been brought to you by Hartin Tree Service! Owned and operated by Ricky Howell, Consulting Arborist, and Sam Hartin. Both of these men have over 45 years combined experience in the Arbor profession.

Our company takes great pride and honor in all aspects of our work and we love to help keep Parker County and surrounding areas trees healthy, safe, and beautiful. Give us a call today for all your tree inquiries. PCLS

Tarlton Successfully Moves to

DIVISION 1

By Nate Bural, Tarleton State University Athletics Photos by Tarleton State University

It’s Tarleton State University

You’ve heard the news. You know the name. You’ve seen the athletic schedules.

But what does it mean to be Division I? NCAA Division I is a mindset. It’s Tarleton State University telling the rest of the country that we are setting our students up for the highest level of success attainable in every way possible. Whether it’s in athletic competition, life-changing research or the world of business, Tarleton graduates are elite and ready to be global change agents.

Our journey to NCAA Division I status has been far from traditional. When Dr. James Hurley was named Tarleton’s 16th President in 2019, he was ready to show the world just how Texans roll — even before his inauguration ceremony took place. Dr. Hurley, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Lonn Reisman and Texas A&M University Chancellor John Sharp met with Western Athletic Conference presidents in Denver to make their case for joining Division I.

It moved forward with Dr. Hurley’s vision. His Division I mindset. “There is something special about Tarleton,” he says. “It’s a place where we rise to challenges and seize opportunities. A place that propels us to excellence.” Ever forward, ever onward — that’s how H.A. Schmidt defined our trajectory in 1920 when

telling the rest of the country that we are setting our students up for the highest level of success attainable in every way possible.

he penned the Tarleton Fight Song: Strive for ideals high / Guard your standards, your traditions / Raise them to the sky / On Ye Tarleton, on Ye Tarleton / Biggest and the best.

“That is what we’re doing here at Tarleton. That is who we are.” An official invitation to join the WAC was extended to Tarleton in November 2019, and the journey was on. The one-time small agricultural college in Stephenville, Texas, was ready to take on the world at the highest level. Tarleton could no longer be a best kept secret.

Tarleton made the move on July 1, 2020, and spent its first year of NCAA reclassification navigating a global pandemic. Classes went completely virtual; athletics were postponed, and the once fruitful streets of Tarleton’s illustrious campus were bare.

“There is something special about Tarleton,” he says.

“It’s a place where we rise to challenges and seize opportunities. A place that propels us to excellence.”

Led by its student organizations, passionate alumni, and dedicated faculty and staff, Tarleton showed exactly why it was ready for a bigger profile. While other universities around the nation struggled, Tarleton found a way to flourish. Tarleton set new records for enrollment with a growth of 6.5 percent, graduate program enrollment exceeded 2,000 students for the first time, and the school was setting new diversity standards with over 5,000 of its students reporting an ethnicity other than white — a growth of 6 percent from 2019. People were seeing Tarleton with a fresh set of eyes. A new mindset. A Division I mindset.

On the playing field, Tarleton Athletics reaped the rewards of its new Division I status. The Texans have squared off against big-name opponents, such as a 2022 football date with TCU in Fort Worth and basketball games against perennial top-10 programs Kansas and Gonzaga. The Tarleton brand was reaching new heights.

People were seeing Tarleton with a fresh set of eyes. A new mindset. A Division I mindset.

“Watching this university compete year in and year out on the biggest stage is a dream come true,” athletics VP Reisman says. “When I came to Tarleton as the men’s basketball coach in 1988, we were a small NAIA school. I have seen us grow from NAIA to NCAA Division II and now the pinnacle of college sports, NCAA Division I. “There are members of the Tarleton community who have KNOWN for years that we were ready for Division I competition. They knew the type of future leaders this outstanding school produces. I’ve had a note on my desk for over 20 years that says, ‘Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.’ Underneath that I put NCAA Division I. For more than 20 years, we never gave up on the dream that our students now get to experience every day.”

As each day passes, Tarleton’s name becomes more and more synonymous with Division I, leading to big dividends for our student population and alumni base. The Division I mentality brings a renewed energy around the campus. More opportunities are being created for our students to find success.

Recently, Tarleton developed a fresh strategic plan to lay out the next decade of success for the institution as it elevates itself into the premier comprehensive regional university in the nation. One of the main institutional objectives was to increase the number of social media followers on Tarleton’s athletic accounts by 20 percent and university accounts by 10 percent annually. Based on recent analytics, Tarleton has seen a spike in fan engagement on social media and interest from prospective students.

This newly minted Division I, forward-thinking mindset promises our students an affordable, high-quality education paired with personalized support from start to finish to help them grow academically, socially and professionally; engaged faculty, staff and alumni mentors who guide students in setting long-term goals and developing marketable skills with real world application; a diverse and inclusive community where all students feel a sense of belonging, safety and acceptance; and transformational educational experiences that challenge

students to achieve excellence and prepare them to lead meaningful and rewarding lives.

Tarleton offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degrees at campuses in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Midlothian, Waco, A&M-RELLIS in Bryan and online.

We’ve added 14 market-responsive majors since 2019 (six in fall 2022). Our expert faculty and student researchers are setting new standards for scholarship, which has elevated the university’s designation to Doctoral Universities High Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institution of Higher Education. This puts Tarleton among only 132, or 4 percent, of schools across the country holding this distinction.

Tarleton Texans are on the rise. Division I is more than a classification. It’s our mindset. It’s a mentality that anything in life can be achieved with enough hard work and dedication.

Joining the Western Athletic Conference in NCAA Division I has increased Tarleton’s national recognition for student-athletes and academic programs. In fact, our scholar-athletes earned the highest academic progress rate (987) of any school in NCAA history reclassifying to D-1.

Tarleton has one of the most loyal fan bases in Texas, and opposing teams feel the passion. Crowds routinely pack the sporting venues in Stephenville, which are some of the finest in the country. Capitalizing on the move to Division I, Tarleton plans to build a $110 million, 7,500set multipurpose center to provide the men’s and women’s basketball teams a stronger home court advantage. Now is a good time to watch a Tarleton Texans game live on the Stephenville campus. Be a part of something special. PCLS

Tarleton Texans are on the rise

Tarleton offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degrees at campuses in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Midlothian, Waco, A&M-RELLIS in Bryan and online.

Tarleton has one of the most loyal fan bases in Texas, and opposing teams feel the passion.

Feel Better. Live Well.

Private Suites Available | Newest Building in Weatherford Rehab-to-Home Programs | Orthopedic Consulting Doctor

Advanced Wound Care | IV Antibiotics

Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy

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Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy

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Long-Term Care | 24/7 Skilled Nursing Care

Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy

IV Antibiotic | Therapy Wound Care

Orthopedic Consulting Doctor

Accepting Medicare and Most Insurance Plans

201 WILLIAMS WARD RD | SPRINGTOWN, TX 76082 OFFICE 817.755.5116 | FAX 817.394.5820 SpringtownParkRehab.com

Optimum Recovery | Newest Building in Parker County

Post Fracture or Joint Replacement | Stroke Recovery & Cardiac Rehab Skilled Medical Care Following Hospitalization

Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy

Long-Term Care beds Available

Accepting Medicare, Some Managed Care plans, Medicaid & Private Pay | Diabetic Rehab

300 CROWN POINTE BLVD. | WILLOW PARK, TX 76087 OFFICE 817.757.1200 | FAX 817.887.4008

WillowParkCare.com

TEXAS LIGHTING ETC., still family owned, now occupies a new 10,000 square foot facility, including a beautiful, huge, state-of-the-art showroom.

Our lighting and accessories selection has grown to offer you even more choices. Our staff has also grown to maintain the unsurpassed customer service we’re known for.

As a leading resource in our field, we furnish the architectural and interior design community with premier interior and exterior lighting fixtures for residential and commercial applications. Handcrafted designs, fine materials, and excellent, personal customer service continue to be our hallmark.

Monday thru Friday 8:30am-5:30pm, Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm

Vet Spotlight

PROVIDED BY RIVERSTONE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Ready To Take The Puppy Plunge? Here Are 6 Things To Know First.

Whetheryouarebuyingoradopting,gettingapuppyforChristmascanbeoneofthe most memorable, joyous moments in a person’s life. From their sweet little faces to theircozysnuggles,puppiesarethecutestcompanionsandnaturallybecomethecenter of attention for many families. After the bows and ribbons are in the trash and the ornamentsarepackedaway…lifegoesbacktonormalandrealitysetsin.Alongwith theircutenessandplayfulnature,puppiescomewithgreatresponsibility.Fromhaving adequatespacetofittingpuppyhoodintoyourlifestyle,thefollowingarethetopfactors toconsiderwhendeterminingifyou'rereadytotaketheleapandadoptapuppy.

1. Family Agreement

Welcoming a puppy into the home impacts everyone living under that roof. Everyone should be willing to care for the puppy and excited to welcome the new addition. Sometimes, parents are at work or away, and older children must care for the puppy. There will be times when the puppy is sick and needs extra love and attention. The entire family must be willing to contribute and ensure the puppy is cared for, loved, and thrives in its new environment. Much like raising children, a puppy takes a village too.

2. Time to Dedicate

Puppies require a lot of time and attention from their owners. House training is a time-consuming task that requires consistency and patience—and that includes training them to eliminate outside and curbing unwanted behaviors such as chewing shoes and furniture. They also have a ton of energy that requires adequate playtime and many walks. Before you adopt a puppy, make sure your schedule allows time to focus on their needs. The American Kennel Club outlines how much exercise a dog needs daily.

3. Adequate Space

As mentioned above, puppies have a LOT of energy. They must let it out, which means space to play, run, and explore. If you reside in an apartment, that might be a challenging environment for a larger breed dog since puppies grow quickly. House training is also a little more complicated in an upper-level apartment since it takes time to get outside, and their small bladders might not make it every time. Ideally, a puppy will have space to run and expel their energy, a safe neighborhood for walks, and quick access to the outdoors during house training.

4. Lifestyle

You should consider your lifestyle before welcoming a puppy into your life, as they have specific needs and create certain complications. For example, a sedentary lifestyle doesn't mesh well with a puppy's need for exercise—nor is that healthy for an older dog. Also, if you enjoy tropical vacations, cruises, and European adventures, you might often find yourself booking a boarding facility for your puppy.

Ask yourself the following lifestyle questions before adopting a puppy:

• Do I live an active lifestyle that supports a dog's need for exercise?

• Do I travel a lot to destinations that aren't dog friendly?

• Do my working hours outside the home mean my dog will be alone all day?

• Do I have family, friends, or neighbors who can help with my dog when needed?

• Does my lifestyle mean my dog will be in daycare or boarded a lot?

5. Financial Considerations

Puppies are certainly not a cheap investment. From vaccinations and veterinary check-ups to unexpected illnesses, grooming expenses, and food, the costs add up quickly. Before committing, ensure you have the finances to support a dog and cover all their needs. Your dog may require a more expensive prescription food, develop a chronic illness that requires medication, or experience an injury that requires surgery. Pet insurance is an option, but many require up-front payment with a reimbursement process.

6. Do Your Breed Research

Identifying what type of puppy you want is the final consideration in confirming you're ready. Dogs come in all sizes and various breeds. Make sure you've done your research to understand what breed is ideal for you and your lifestyle. This can mean the difference between a lasting and loving bond and buyer's remorse if your chosen breed is not a good fit. As veterinarians, we see far too many dogs get rehomed due to their breed not aligning with a person or family's day-to-day life. To avoid this heartbreaking circumstance, choose a dog breed matching your activity level, living space, etc.

Once you bring home your new pup you will need to invest in their health and well-being. We recommend that you bring him or her in for a routine physical exam to assess your pet’s current health status.

HEALTH Immunization

It is ideal that he or she starts an immunization schedule between 6 and 8 weeks of age. The routine vaccines will protect them from 8 diseases (many potentially fatal) including: distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus, bordetella, rabies, & leptovirus.

De-Worm

Intestinal parasites are common in puppies. They can become infected with them before they are born or through their mother’s milk. We recommend a stool sample examination & a de-worming product that is safe and effective against several of the most common worms in dogs.

Flea Control

We recommend a newer medication called Sentinel. It is given every 30 days (12 months a year) as a chewable tablet, and has the added benefit of heartworm, whipworm, roundworm, and hookworm protection. We also recommend the use of Comfortis or Bravecto on an as-needed basis.

Nutrition

We recommend food made by a national dog food company (not generic or local brand) and a form made for puppies, given until 10-18 months of age. Feed your puppy 3 times a day; the amount should be measured out and everything left after 30 minutes should be taken away. If the food is eaten within 5 minutes, the quantity is insufficient and should be increased. It is not good to switch foods frequently; it is better to start with a high-quality diet and stick to it.

Spay & Neuter

Beyond preventing unwanted litters of puppies, spaying has been proven to significantly reduce the chance of your dog getting breast cancer and uterine infections. Un-neutered males are more likely to roam in search of females as well as more likely to fight and be aggressive. Neutering also greatly reduces the risk of prostate cancer and infections. Your dog may be spayed or neutered any time after 4 months of age. To learn more talk to your vet. Although owning a dog is a huge responsibility, the benefits and joy you receive by sharing your life with man’s best friend are far more rewarding. We wish you and your doggie a long happy life together!

Contact us to learn more about the big decision to purchase a puppy and everything that comes with being a first-time owner. PCLS

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819 Santa Fe Dr., Weatherford, TX 76086

Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm

Saturday 8:00am - 2:00pm (817) 270-9416

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1421 FM 1189 Ste 4, Brock, TX 76087

Monday - Thursday 7:30am - 5:30pm

Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm (817) 270-9415 Wellness

SERVICES: PHONES ANSWERED 24/7

Falling in love with

Fall

By Lindsay Allen

There is something about the excitement of pumpkin-flavored everything, the leaves changing and cooler days and nights that get everyone looking forward to the fall months.

While the change of colors and cool air is enough to enjoy, the fall months also bring their own season of activities and bucket lists – from Friday night football to beautiful sunset views and everything in between, there is never a shortage of fun! As you and your loved ones begin to anticipate the season, check out the list of activities and form your own fall bucket list this year!

While the change of colors and cool air is enough to enjoy, the fall months also bring their own season of activities and bucket lists.

1. Get Outdoors!

The cooler weather is the perfect excuse to take that camping trip you have been putting off or to start those evening walks you have been wanting to do. In fact, many state parks have special events on the weekends for campers that include stargazing and hayrides, in addition to bird watching events and guided hikes. Check your local state park to see what activities they have planned this fall - some are even known for hosting trick – or– treat events as campers decorate their site for Halloween and eagerly pass out candy to all who walk through the park!

If camping is not your thing, you can still take advantage of the season and picnic at the local city park or roast s’mores in an outdoor fire pit!

2. Night Life

This is a great time of year to find live music at a local restaurant and ask for the patio seating! Weatherford, Granbury, and Grandview have many regularly planned – and free – concerts or restaurants that have live music with outdoor seating options.

3. Get in the Spirit

Many local churches and cities host fall festivals that are great for all ages. From trunk– or– treats, to chili suppers, costume contests, carnival games, inflatables and bounce houses, face painting, concession stand treats and more – why wouldn’t you want to load up the kids and head to one (or several) of these events?

4. Drive-In Movies

With the fall breeze in your favor, find your local drive-in theater (locations in Granbury, Fort Worth and Waxahachie) or outdoor movie showing (Weatherford will be showing Hocus Pocus on Oct. 14 at the city amphitheater) and enjoy a movie under the stars!

Don’t forget your lawn chair, blanket, and a radio to tune into the movie!

The cooler weather is the perfect excuse to take that camping trip.

5. Fall Cooking

Feeling adventurous? Try a new recipe using a fall squash – from pumpkin to acorn squash or butternut squash – there are many options out there to celebrate the season. An author favorite recipe is shared below. Or take advantage of the apple season and cover some in caramel or make an apple pie – whatever it takes to bring the fall smells into your home!

Beef Enchilada Stuffed Acorn Squash

Created By: Alex Snodgrass with The Defined Dish

FOR THE ACORN SQUASH

• 2 medium sized acorn squashes

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

FOR THE BEEF

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 cup yellow onion, finely diced (or 1/2 medium onion)

• 1-pound ground beef

• 1/2 teaspoon each of black pepper and dried

oregano

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne

• 1 teaspoon each of salt, cumin, paprika, chili powder and garlic powder

• 1.5 tablespoons ghee

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2/3 cup beef broth

• 1/2 avocado, sliced, for serving

• 1/4 cup pico de gallo, for serving

• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro, for serving

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Place the squash horizontally on a cutting board. Trim the ends off of the squash by cutting just enough of the pointy tip off in order to create a flatter bottom, taking care not to cut too far as to get into the hollow part of the squash. Now, cut each acorn squash in half, horizontally. Then, scoop out seeds and stringy bits inside the squash (I find using an ice cream scoop works best), being careful not to break a hole in the bottom of the cavity.

3. Place acorn squash cut side up on the baking sheet and brush the flesh all over with olive oil, until evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt.

4. Bake in oven until the flesh of the squash is fork tender, about 35-45 minutes, depending on the size of your squash.

5. Meanwhile, while your squash is baking- heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add the onion and ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef, breaking up the meat with the back of a spoon until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off excess fat if needed.

6. Reduce heat to medium and add the cayenne, cumin, paprika, chili, garlic, and dried oregano. Toss spices to incorporate with beef until fragrant and lightly toasted, about 1-2 minutes.

7. Add ghee and melt, stir to combine. Add tomato paste and stir until incorporated with meat.

8. Reduce heat to medium-low and add beef broth. Cook, stirring, until sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

9. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm until acorn squash are cooked.

10. Once squash are cooked, evenly distribute beef mixture among squash by filling the cavities of the squash.

11. Garnish with cilantro, pico de gallo and avocado and serve and enjoy!

With the fall breeze in your favor, find your local drive-in theater or your local outdoor movie showing.

6. Family Photos

Find your local pumpkin patch or take advantage of the leaves changing colors and have your family photo taken. You can never start too early on those Christmas cards…

7. Travel!

Now’s the time to plan that trip to the Smokie Mountains or Colorado or the Texas Hill Country to see the leaves changing in full force! Lost Maples State Park in Texas is well known for their vibrant fall colors and attracts a large crowd every year for this reason.

8. Pumpkin Fun

It wouldn’t be October if you didn’t make time to decorate, paint or carve a pumpkin. To help your carved pumpkin last longer, either submerge it in a gallon of water mixed with 1/3 cup of bleach or spray the inside and outside with hairspray.

9. Fall Farms

As agritourism grows, you won’t find a shortage of farm fun in the fall. From corn mazes, pumpkin patches, concession foods, rides, pig races, sunflower fields and more – farms open to the public are perfect for everyone in the family. A few local farms are listed below.

Mainstay Farm Park – Cleburne, Texas

Yesterland Farm – Canton, Texas

Lone Star Family Farm & Corn Maze – Stephenville, Texas

10. Neighborhood Host

The cooler evenings create a wonderful environment to host your neighbors for chili and s’mores. Have everyone bring a lawn chair and enjoy and night under the starts with a warm fire and good company. PCLS

Lost Maples State Park in Texas is well known for their vibrant fall colors.

Farms open to the public are perfect for everyone in the family.

PATHWAY REHABILITATION SPORTS THERAPY

By Allen Taylor

PATHWAY IS INVOLVED WITH SPORTS THERAPY, PHYSICAL THERAPY, SPEECH THERAPY AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY.

THEY ARE CURRENTLY PROVIDING THESE SERVICES IN LONG-TERM CARE, HOME HEALTH CARE, INPATIENT ACUTE CARE, AND OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION.

After humble beginnings, Pathway Rehab's path to offering better health continues to grow.

"We started the company in 2014 with two skilled nursing contracts and four home health contracts," explained Alex Garrett, owner and treating therapist. "We provided long-term rehab in the skilled nursing facilities and orthopedic rehab in the home health setting."

In 2017 Pathway began a partnership with Stephens Memorial Hospital in Breckenridge to provide acute, inpatient, outpatient, non-surgical, pre-operative and post-operative orthopedic, and sports injury rehabilitation.

In February they opened their newest clinic in Brock. But it won't be the newest for long as one is set to open in Tolar in August.

Pathway is involved with sports therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy. They are currently providing these services in long-term care, home health care, inpatient acute care, and outpatient rehabilitation.

IT IS HIS DESIRE TO GET PATHWAY INVOLVED WITH EACH DISTRICT'S STUDENT-ATHLETES.

Pathway partners with multiple hospitals and skilled nursing rehabilitation centers, as well as some of the largest home health companies in the nation. Their coverage area ranges from Weatherford to Granbury, west to Abilene and Sweetwater, north to Haskell and Breckenridge, while servicing a plethora of rural areas in between.

Photos by Jesse Martinez

"One benefit to having therapy at our clinics is we offer a wellness follow-up program," Garrett said. "This means when a patient is finished with their skilled therapy, we allow them to come back to the clinic, for a period of time, and utilize our equipment on their schedules. This encourages the patient to follow through with their personalized home exercise program (HEP)."

As their clinics are new to the Brock, Lipan, Santo, Millsap, Tolar, and Bluffdale areas, Garrett said he has not had an opportunity to visit with the athletic directors for each school. However, it is his desire to get Pathway involved with each district's student-athletes.

"Some schools have designated athletic trainers, and from what we’ve heard they are doing a great job. However, this is an expense some schools can’t afford, a position some choose not to hire, or are seeking to fill this position but have not been able to," he said. "Regardless of the school’s situation, we can come alongside their athletic trainer and support the care they are already

PREVENTATIVE CARE IS A GREAT WAY TO AVOID INJURIES.

providing or work directly with the coaching staff to help them get their student-athletes back in the game."

Garrett said in addition to providing care after an injury to drastically decrease the injured athlete's recovery time, he and his staff feel it is important to help the coaches and student-athletes see the importance of pre-habilitative care (prehab).

Prehab is stretches, exercises, strengthening and conditioning to typically unworked areas of the body that are causative to many sports injuries.

"Preventative care is a great way to avoid injuries, but when the inevitable injury happens, the body is in much better condition to rehab and bounce back to pre-injury status, in less time," he said.

Pathway's occupational therapists are educated in fine motor skills, work hardening activities, and activities of daily living (ADL) rehabilitation. This includes many hand and wrist injuries, as well as some stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation.

They also focus on work hardening to help individuals injured on the job return to the tasks that caused the injury in a safe and physically efficient manner. ADL rehab and re-training is crucial for patients with a stroke, or stroke-like symptoms, TBI, and other types of coordination issues to help them regain the ability to do things like button a shirt, zip a zipper, comb their hair and similar activities, even driving a car.

PATHWAY'S SPEECH THERAPISTS DO MORE THAN WORK ON SPEECH PROBLEMS.

Pathway's speech therapists do more than work on speech problems. They are well educated to handle problem solving, word finding, short-term and longterm memory issues and organization, activities geared at improving cognitive communication, conversational tactics to improve social conversation, breathing exercises, and speech and swallowing issues. Some of these issues occur following a stroke, TBI, age-related conditions, or even COVID and other disease processes.

Garrett said although the office location options are more plentiful in the bigger cities such as Granbury, Weatherford, and Stephenville, they chose Brock and Tolar because they realize healthcare in rural Texas can be somewhat limited.

"We often see people traveling past many clinics, doctors’ offices, hospitals, etc. to get to a specialist, or not even a specialist, just someone who they trust to provide the best care, or best treatment, possible," he said. "We want to bring that 'best treatment possible' closer to home."

Garrett said what sets Pathway apart

is their holistic approach to physical therapy and their focus on the person, as well as the injury.

"We understand physical therapies have an emotional, mental, social, and spiritual aspect - not just physical. When we can address all, or most of these areas, as they relate to the injury, not as psychologists, psychiatrists, or other types of mental health professionals, we can better help the patient achieve the best possible outcome," he said.

Garrett stressed that while many injuries are the same, and the treatment approach is similar, patients are never the same. They tailor the physical exercise specifically for the patient, but also give special consideration to the other aspects, specific to the person.

"This allows us to better connect with each patient. This fosters mutual respect, improved participation, and ultimately optimum outcomes," he said.

Pathway's target clients are sports-related injuries from

"WE WANT TO BRING THAT 'BEST TREATMENT POSSIBLE' CLOSER TO HOME."

GARRETT SAID THE MOST COMMON INJURY THEY SEE IS BACK PAIN, FOLLOWED CLOSELY BY SHOULDER PAIN AND KNEE REPLACEMENTS.

student-athletes, middle-aged folks who are realizing their bodies can’t perform all the activities it used to, and the general population. These injuries could be from all varieties of sports, work-related or vehicle accidentrelated injuries, or general debility related to certain disease processes that affect all ages. This includes things such as knee, hip, and shoulder replacements and pain, back and neck injuries and pain, arthritic pain, and more.

"One recent trend we’ve seen over the past several years is the emphasis on prehab. The goal is to avoid surgery. However, what studies are showing is that patients who received physical therapy prior to surgery have reduced recovery time, generally less pain with recovery, and have better range of motion and functional mobility compared to patients who did not have physical therapy prior to the surgery," Garrett said.

Garrett said the most common injury they see is back pain, followed closely by shoulder pain and knee replacements.

Garrett noted the staff at Pathway includes former high school and college athletes, marathon runners, traveling educators within their field, athletic trainers, and therapists that started their own companies and operated, or managed, multiple out-patient and sports therapy clinics prior to coming on board. Pathway uses modalities such as electrical stimulation(E-Stim) and ultrasound, and Garrett said they have a blood flow restriction (BFR) machine on order. However, Pathway believes in using modalities to enhance therapists' abilities to provide the best treatment, but never to replace them.

"Our therapists are what makes the difference in our patients’ rehabilitation and return to their prior level," he said.

Ultrasound and E-Stim can be used for multiple purposes, including increase flexibility and range of motion, increase circulation, reduce swelling and edema, and pain reduction. E-Stim is also a versatile modality, used to increase coordination following a stroke, TBI, certain injuries and surgeries, and some disease processes. It is also beneficial following a fracture, broken bone, surgery, and joint replacement for muscle re-education.

"We have used BFR and believe it is a very reliable and proven method of rehabilitation for certain patients," Garrett said. "Specifically for sports injuries and postsurgical patients, BFR acts to maximize the benefit of rehab and growth will minimizing stress, and pain, to the affected joints.

"We are very excited to be bringing this to our clinics soon."

Pathway's website is www.pathwayrehab.net. They can also be found on Facebook at @pathwayrehabilitation, and on Instagram at @pathway_rehabilitation. PCLS

"OUR THERAPISTS ARE WHAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE IN OUR PATIENTS’ REHABILITATION AND RETURN TO THEIR PRIOR LEVEL."

andWe believe that some of the benefits of equine assisted therapy are immeasurable. We have seen riders do things such as take their first steps, speak for the first time, and accomplish things that they never dreamed possible.

By Connie Lewis Leonard Photography and provided by Stars and Strides Stables

quine Assisted Therapy focuses on balance, core strength, fine and gross motor skills and emotional support. The rider receives these benefits while having fun on the horse. We believe that some of the benefits of equine assisted therapy are immeasurable. We have seen riders do things such as take their first steps, speak for the first time, and accomplish things that they never dreamed possible. But, there is nothing that beats the smile on

the face of our riders when they are riding their horse,” said Teresa Miller, Director of Stars and Strides Stables in Weatherford.

The Millers’ daughter, Courtney, was born with Kabuki Syndrome. When she was about ten years old, they enrolled her in Equine Assisted Therapy to help strengthen her core muscles. An added benefit was that it did wonders for her self-esteem. Teresa began volunteering with the riding program and eventually became a certified PATH instructor. When the family moved to Weatherford, there was no equine assisted therapy center in Parker County. God had blessed them with land, so they established Stars and Strides Stables.

Initially, the Millers paid all expenses out of their own pockets. Now they depend on grants and donations because Equine Assisted Therapy is not covered by insurance. Each September, they host a golf tournament as a means of supporting the work. Organizations, such as United Way of Parker County, North Side Baptist Church and Lions Club of Weatherford regularly support Stars and Strides. Donations of tack, horse-quality hay, and other items are always appreciated. The most pressing need is show trained horses that are still young enough to handle the day-to-day work with the riders but have experience in the show arena, especially in the areas of Western Pleasure/Horsemanship, Trail and Showmanship. These specialties work well with the riders as it relates to walking and jogging and at competitions.

All instructors must complete certification training offered by PATH. The center then has to submit for certification after meeting guidelines and requirements for the center itself as it relates to arena layout, safety, equine care and management, rider, and participant safety, etc. Volunteers initially attend an orientation day followed by volunteer training. This training focuses on aspects such as

rider safety, properly leading a horse, side walking, and general horse care and tack such as saddling.

Miller went on to explain, “At Stars and Strides Stables, we believe in the remarkable therapeutic power of the equestrian experience, because we believe that students of all ages, backgrounds and ability levels can benefit from riding and working with the horses at our center. Whether they have physical, cognitive, sensory, or emotional disabilities, we believe that all our students are STARS.

“For children and adults with disabilities, working with horses like ours can be a life changing experience. In fact, we believe no other therapeutic recreational opportunity offers so many benefits in such a holistic way. Students will be taught equine care, riding, handling, and management to their best level of ability. Once the riders and their families realize the overall benefits to equine assisted therapy, they tend to stay with the program long term unless the rider loses funding, or they move. Many of our riders have been with us since the inception of the Stables.”

Some of the Stars and Strides students have participated in many equestrian events designed specifically for equestrians with disabilities. Taking the riders to the events not only gives them an opportunity to display the horsemanship skills they have learned through their sessions but also gives them a sense of accomplishment and provides them an athletic event that does not say no to them. These events include but are not limited to shows such as the American Quarter Horse Association, the Chisholm Challenge hosted by the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, Houston Top Hands associated with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Special Olympics, and the Stars and Stripes Spectacular hosted by the ApHC (Appaloosa Horse Club).

The Stars and Strides Patriots Program meets weekly and is open to any veteran who is living with PTSD or has sustained other injuries in connection with military service, regardless of the conflict or circumstance. The Patriots Program includes groundwork and riding. No previous horse experience is necessary and there is no required commitment for attendance.

We believe that some of the benefits of equine assisted therapy are immeasurable. We have seen riders do things such as take their first steps, speak for the first time, and accomplish things that they never dreamed possible.

A variety of interventions are utilized in order to realize the most benefits from an equine program. Veterans have seen improvements in a number of areas including physical strength, movement and balance, communication skills, emotional regulation, focus and concentration, comfort in new situations, trust in others, social interaction, coordination and cooperation, patience and relaxation, motivation and self-esteem, and compassion and empathy.

Veteran volunteers are recruited to support their fellow veterans and are a key ingredient in the healing of injured individuals. Having veterans provide moral and physical support to their wounded comrades honors the military philosophy of no one left behind.

This service is completely free to veterans and is funded by donations from local and national organizations, foundations, and individuals.

Whether they have physical, cognitive, sensory, or emotional disabilities, we believe that all our students are STARS.

Stars and Strides Stables is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established in 2012 to give riders with disabilities a place to learn and become effective and competitive equestrians. Stars and Strides is a PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International) certified facility located in Weatherford, TX. PCLS

The Stars and Strides Patriots Program meets weekly and is open to any veteran who is living with PTSD or has sustained other injuries in connection with military service, regardless of the conflict or circumstance.

-

“Horses reflect our emotions, while at the same time they seem to know how to give us exactly what we need to soothe the pain.”

Barbara Schulte

HOMETOWN

HAPPENINGS

Approximately 300 elementary students participated in a town clean-up drive founded by Brock kindergarten student, Georgia Lee Martin.

2 ND

ANNUAL BROCK SPRING CLEAN INITIATIVE

Eight year old, Georgia Lee Martin looked out the window one winter morning and saw trash blowing down the road. She asked her mother, Heather, if everyone in Brock could help pick up together. Since it is never too early to encourage community leadership the Martins asked to meet with Lauren Davis, Assistant Principal, at Brock Elementary. Lauren, along with Principal Erin Griffith, were happy to help Georgia Lee’s

participatingHarperHorner,pre-kstudent

Matt Martin helping his daughter hand out treats over lunch.

Myles Kemp enjoying his well earned treat.

JesseBlaire Harvey, Georgia Lee, & Carson Calhoun enjoying a popsicle reward.

Photos provided by Heather Martin

plan come together. Georgia Lee and her brother, Gatlyn wrote out a spring clean list of ideas that kids could do independently.

Each student that completed at least 4 items received a popsicle on Earth Day in April. The inaugural event was a success with over half of all students participating and the 2022 event was just as well received. Students picked up trash along the road, swept porches, cleaned out closets and donated to Manna, helped elderly neighbors with yard work and

planted flowers for beautification. Overall, the cleanup week provided awareness that you are never too young to make a difference in the community in which God has placed you.

“Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”

1 Timothy 4:12

GeorgiaLee (7) & Gatlyn Martin (10)

(sheGeorgiaLeepickinguptrashonTaylorRoad checklistwantedtocompleteeverysingleitemonthe tosetanexamplesinceitwasherproject)

Claire Thomas (3rd grader) helping plant flowers

2021 Earth Day

WILLIAMS FAMILY

OVERCOMING ALL THE Obstacles

By Timothy McKeown

The two siblings started showing cattle with a heifer a piece in Eastland County, placing second in show at Houston and San Antonio events back in 2019.

What started as a girl’s love for animals has resulted in a mother’s devotion and her children’s desire to successfully show Brahmans in competition.

“Falyn loves anything to do with showing her animals, not just the cattle but the community, the people, and everything that goes with it. But she especially loves the showing of the animals,” Jody Williams said. Falyn was Downs’ Syndrome, but she is also a survivor of Leukemia which she acquired when she was only two years old.

Photos provided by Jody Williams

Now 15, Falyn has been through a lot. She still bears the scars on her vocal cords from being on a ventilator and hospitalized for nine months at Cook Children’s Hospital.

But today, her mom’s first description of her daughter is, “She’s a hot mess. She is always happy. She loves everybody and everyone who meets her loves her too.”

“You would never know she’s ever had a bad day! She’s always happy and fun to be around,” Jody said.

From the first time Falyn said that she wanted to show Brahmans, Jody has worked hard to engage her

daughter’s dreams and not just Falyn’s desires, but also Carson’s, Falyn’s 13-year-old brother. The children began showing as soon as they could, beginning in kindergarten, showing pigs, goats, chickens and now commercial heifers and Brahman cattle.

The two siblings started showing cattle with a heifer a piece in Eastland County, placing second in show at Houston and San Antonio events back in 2019. They now reside on what Jody describes as a small 2-acre farm on the scenic country road halfway between Weatherford and Brock.

Falyn captures the attention by being an entertainer loving to make others smile.

“She’s a hot mess. She is always happy. She loves everybody and everyone who meets her loves her too.”

Falyn captures the attention by being an entertainer loving to make others smile. She loves her animals dearly, even kissing and fawning over their mighty bovine, which weigh anywhere from 1400 to more than 1800 pounds.

Carson, on the other hand, is the storyteller of the family, Jody said, and sometimes can be all business when the competition comes. While still young, his experiences have already given him a desire to work with animals when he grows up.

Carson tells about one of the adventure stories coming back from an Oklahoma showing, with mom pulling a trailer with six cattle, five heifers and a bull. After a full day of work, cleaning and packing up, they left the grounds and within 45 minutes of the fairgrounds, the transmission started going out.

“For the longest, we couldn’t get out of fourth gear, until we couldn’t go at all,” Carson told in typical storytelling fashion. “Going up the hills, we were going no more than 25 miles an hour, but going down, we could pick up speed.” The experience taught the family about tenacity and “a huge village of friends” willing to help out, including Jody’s mother, Sharon Williams from Leona.

Carson, on the other hand, is the storyteller of the family.

“I tell people ‘I’m trying to raise kids, not cattle, but the cattle are doing a great job of helping me do that,” Jody said. “As a mom, the biggest impact it’s made on the kids is teaching them responsibility, courage, and confidence. Those are the biggest things for my kids.”

Jody not only juggles responsibilities of being a single mom, but also running a business as a CPA. Still, they recently were busy for two weeks straight and have travelled as far away as Lebanon, Tennessee, and New Iberia, Louisiana.

With all the rewards of being now experienced show persons, Carson readily admits the work of caring for the animals is not always fun. “My least favorite is probably getting up at 4 a.m. before school,” he admits, proving that despite the success, he still is a teenager like anyone else. Even on the road, they have to haul water to the animals and of course cleanup is no one’s favorite thing to do.

“I tell people ‘I’m trying to raise kids, not cattle, but the cattle are doing a great job of helping me do that.”

“Both of them want to be involved in agriculture of some type,” Jody said, but they are also learning about dealing with people, as well as the business responsibilities. Carson said few of the kids in school really understand what all it takes to raise and show cattle, but when he gets around others who do, he really connects with them, whether they are his age or even up in their 60s.

Last summer, Carson was also able to work as a veterinarian intern with Dr. Craig Sweatt at the North Texas Veterinarian Hospital near Peaster.

But surprisingly, the grossest job Carson says he has had to do did not even have anything to do with cattle. Their cat recently brought up a wild rabbit she had killed, dismembered, and brought proudly to be on display on their porch. Jody chose Carson to dispose of the animal mess.

Falyn has not lost any of her love for animals in all the years. “I like showing them off. They are all so pretty. I love to pet them, and give them sugars (kisses),” she said.

In the most recent Fort Worth stock show, both of the Williams children earned some prestigious awards. Carson won Reserve Calf Division Champion and Class Winner in the Fort Worth Junior Breeding Heifer show. Another event was the Open Brahman Show where he was a Class Winner with Lady H Pazazz Manso 477/1 bread by Heritage Cattle Company, Hungerford, TX.

PCLS

Carson readily admits the work of caring for the animals is not always fun.

The Power of Our

WORDS

BY ERICA WILLIS | BELIEVEBOLDLY.COM

God can pinpoint every failure and every sin, yet He chooses to celebrate us.

Words are my favorite.

I love the stories intricately told with perfectly placed adjectives or intriguing plot lines. It’s my dream to dive into a book and pick it apart, on the hunt for sentences that shape my soul and engage my imagination. Being an author influences my passion for language and the art of story, so I read all I can. But in that unbridled excitement to find the good in each book, I am almost more delighted when I

Like a detective solving a crime, each mistake I discover feels like a clue leading to capturing the criminal.

find the typos in a major publication. Like a detective solving a crime, each mistake I discover feels like a clue leading to capturing the criminal. “They missed the comma!” “Can you believe they left out ‘and’?” “How are these people professionals?!” It’s a badge of honor to point out the wrongdoing and shortfall of other writers, right?

It was, until my own book was published. When I finally relished the satisfaction of the tangible, paper-printed copy in my own hands, I found an error right away. What? How could that be? It went through edit after edit, had the eyes of an entire publishing house scouring each page, and was even featured on shelves in Barnes & Noble, yet had an error. “WHY, God?” I thought. “Why, when I have finally achieved

my dream of publishing a book, did you let this slip by?” I felt like I failed, and the book would be judged as lessthan. God responded to my question with His own—

“Since when do you look for the mistake rather than celebrating the victory?”

He was right, as usual. Why would I bypass the victory of publishing a real-life, honest-to-goodness book, to agonize over one mistake? Sixty thousand words and all I could see was the one wrong one.

This had an obvious correlation to my faith, and I couldn’t help but see the connection. When I become too focused on my mistakes or failures, I can easily miss the ways I have already been redeemed by Christ. I can start to see my losses rather than my wins. God can pinpoint every failure and every sin, yet He chooses to celebrate us. He looks at our humanity and offers grace through Jesus, not a checklist of our shortcomings. Unlike my editing hand, He doesn’t pull out the red pen and comment in the margins—

Dumb.

Prideful.

Liar.

Lazy.

Instead, He calls us beloved. He calls us chosen. He calls us beautiful. When we don’t want to read our bibles or pray as we should, He invites us closer. We will all continue to make mistakes, but when we look for the mistakes in others rather than celebrating their victories,

we miss the point of grace.

So, when reality allows the proverbial misspellings in the first chapter and doesn’t follow the rules of the Oxford comma in the last, I will choose to not lose my grip on the grace of God. I will look for the glory of His salvation in and amongst the messiest parts of myself and others because that is usually where He is the most visible. Thank God for grace! PCLS

Instead, He calls us beloved. He calls us chosen. He calls us beautiful.

- Erica

By Lindsay L Allen

WITH $220 IN HIS POCKET, WES ARRIVED IN NASHVILLE IN 1989

READY TO CONTINUE HIS CURRENT JOB IN TEXAS WHILE HE SEARCHED FOR WORK IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY.

es Hightower’s résumé reads a little differently than most. The Weatherford native has contributed to 159 number one country singles and has sang back-up vocals for over 20 years (on and off) for George Strait…not to mention he is part of the Weatherford I.S.D. Athletic Hall of Fame for a successful year with the 1981/1982 tennis team. He has not had your average career by any means, but he recalls where it all started in Parker County.

Photos provided by Wes Hightower

His love for music started at the North Main Church of Christ where he learned to read shape notes and started gravitating towards harmonies. His parent’s records that filled the house with music from Merle haggard, Waylon Jennings and more also fueled his love for music, and more specifically, country music.

“I’ve always been interested in singing harmony versus being the lead,” Wes said, “I can blend well with a lot of singers and have a knack for finding the pleasant frequencies in someone’s voice and don’t extenuate the unpleasant tones, which is the reason I have been blessed with a long career in Nashville.”

Moving to Nashville

After graduating from high school, Wes attended what is now the University of North Texas, but when his father passed away, he moved back home and took some classes at Weatherford College and the University of Texas at Arlington.

“I was working out at a gym in Arlington and met someone, who later became a friend, that played fiddle for Gene Watson on tour. He found out I could sing and said, “I’m moving to Nashville; why don’t you come visit me and see if you can get some work there?’” Wes recalled. Wes took it a step further and decided to save up for a couple of years and then do more than visit; but make the move!

With $220 in his pocket, Wes arrived in Nashville in 1989 ready to continue his current job in Texas (tinting windows) while he searched for work

in the music industry. A few years later, he was able to moonlight at night and sing background vocals for songwriters he met, mainly by hanging out at various recording studios and the Bluebird Café, and tint windows during the day. By 1995 Wes had enough work singing that he was able to quit his other job and focus on his passion.

“Some of the songwriters I met went on to become producers who remembered me, and that allowed me to move from a demo singer to a master session singer,” Wes shared, “In late 1995 I was part of my first master sessions for major labels. Most of my work came though virtue of older friends slowing down or retiring from singing background vocals and needing someone to fill their shoes. In a six-month period, I went from working six hours a week in this industry to 40 hours a week thanks to the relationships I had built with those who went on to retire.”

#1 On the Charts

In 1997 Wes sang background vocals on Collin Raye’s number one country song, “I Can Still Feel You” and over the last 25 years has sung vocals on 156 other number one country songs!

“It’s really hard to pick a favorite song, but I loved singing with Vince Gill on George Strait’s song, “Troubadour” and Leann Womack’s “Twenty Years and Two Husbands Ago” is a song I love for so many reasons and I was proud to be on that album,” Wes shared.

In 1999 Wes got the opportunity of a lifetime, albeit not under the circumstances he had hoped for. “One of my idols, John Wesley Ryles, had helped me so much in my career and I was having lunch with him the week he got a call to join George Strait on tour. I told him that ‘if you ever need a sub, let me know; I know that catalogue and would love to jump

in at any point,’” Wes recalled, “Two weeks passed and my friend called and asked if I was serious about my offer. Sadly, his mother had become gravely ill, and he didn’t feel right going on tour only to know he would have to leave halfway through to take care of her affairs.”

So, for the last 23 years, Wes has not only been part of George’s tours, but also part of every album he has recorded since 1999.

Over time Wes has also sang vocals for some of Alan Jackson’s shows and Florida Georgia Line; he even performed on the Jimmy Fallon Show with Florida Georgia Line and it’s one of his favorite career memories. Another highlight was performing with Darius Rucker at Christmas in Washington in 2008 at The National Building Museum in front of the First Lady and Congressmen and women.

When asked what is the most surprising thing about being on stage, Wes said the noise! “I still remember my first show with George at the Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona with 74,000+ fans. The noise caused me physical pain. The crowd was so loud and all their energy was focused on one spot; the stage. I developed a new appreciation for how pro football teams feel when they have all the voices in a stadium zoned in on them,” Wes said.

On the flip side, his favorite performance with George was at Gruene Hall. “You go from playing to crowds of 70,000+ where you can only see the first 10-12 rows to a more intimate venue like Gruene Hall where you could make eye contact with everyone was just really neat,” he recalled.

Semi-Retired

A few years back, Wes and his wife Nikki decided that if he really wanted to retire they should leave Nashville where it wouldn’t be as easy and tempting to accept so many gigs. “We chose Florida because of the weather. My wife is an avid triathlete who likes to train yearround, and I want to play golf every week,” Wes said. Since moving to Florida in 2016, Wes has been remote recording and is still on singing backup for George. He calls himself “semi-retired.”

“I have a few clients that I don’t even think know that I moved. The workload didn’t decrease as much as I anticipated when we made the move, and I keep trying to cut back, but it is also hard to walk away when you love what you do,” he said. His love for music and his success in the industry has created quite the career for this Weatherford native who likes to swing by The Pizza Place off Main Street, where he worked in high school, when he is back in town. PCLS

An Adoption Story: A Divine Intervention

By Martha Helton Photos Provided by Erica Willis

Adopting a child is certainly a very beautiful decision of heartfelt, selfless love. For Weatherford residents Joey and Erica Willis, their decision to adopt was indeed a heartfelt, yet very unexpected decision. But it was even more than that; it was divinely inspired and directed.

Erica met her husband after an extended break from dating in high school. She knew she was going into ministry and she didn’t want to “waste” her time on the dating scene.

Adoption is something that the Willis family recommends. Their story of adoption was divinely inspired and directed.

A family friend suggested she meet her nephew who was also going into the ministry. They emailed back and forth for a month and when they finally spoke on the phone, she knew within the first 15 minutes she was going to marry him! Soon thereafter they met in person (Joey lived in Texas and Erica lived in Kansas). God’s will unfolded. They now have been married 18 years.

The couple talked about having two kids, then maybe adopt. “It was not part of our plan, just a concept we were open to exploring,” shared Erica. The couple went on to have two biological children of their own (Tristan—a boy, age 13 and Reese—a girl, age 10). Erica stayed home to raise her children until they were school age and then went back into the workforce.

One day she read a random Facebook post about adoption. “I had a very intense reaction to it, crying uncontrollably about the story and what God did in their family. Crying is NOT a natural reaction for me, and I couldn't shake the feeling that God was trying to get my attention,” she explained. She shared with her closest friends that she felt God was asking her to adopt or foster a child. “I was equally terrified and frustrated and exhilarated at the possibility that God was asking me to take (what felt like) the biggest risk of my life.”

There were many confirmation stories that played out in Erica’s life that adoption was indeed in her future. A regular practice for Erica is to pray over her kids’ rooms and beds, praying for peace and a good night’s sleep. Her daughter had an extra twin bed in her room where friends could stay

The couple talked about having two kids, then maybe adopt. “It was not part of our plan, just a concept we were open to exploring.”

during sleepovers. She felt unexpectantly drawn to the bed to pray, even weeping, for what reason she did not know but knew God was doing something. Soon thereafter she went to a festival in Mineral Wells and the first booth she came to was for foster care in the area. She asked the woman about what it would mean to foster a child and she said these exact words: “A child wouldn't need their own room! They can share a room. Let's say you have a daughter with an extra bed--a child could stay there."

She mentioned to her husband about what had happened, and he was still not keen on the idea of adoption. Still, Erica continued to pray behind the scenes to change Joey’s heart, yet with still some uncertainty and doubt about it herself. “I was trying to be obedient, but I was terrified. Why would God ask me to invite what could potentially be an abused or neglected kid into my family that I had spent so many years of my life protecting and raising right? It didn't feel fair! The season I was stepping into was for myself, not another kid. It was then that God said to me, plain as day, ‘Don't think your life is so precious that I won't disrupt it for the sake of another.’ Wow. But that's the gospel, right? Laying down one's life for the sake of Christ. This was no different.”

Two more years she prayed until she felt it was time to approach Joey again. After some honest conversations, they decided to go for adoption instead of foster care. During this time, their daughter Reese repeatedly started asking when she would get a baby sister, even though she had no idea they were considering adoption. Erica had dreams confirming they were going to adopt.

The couple opened up their hearts to any situation concerning the birth mom…any drug abuse, mental issues, or medical issues, if any. It did not matter what the race would be or the gender. “When we said yes to adoption, we said yes to it all,” said Erica. “This was a huge test in our faith in God since we were no longer in control of our family. Fear was no longer allowed to be in charge of how I parented! I finally knew what it meant to give everything to God, not just what was comfortable.”

“I was trying to be obedient, but I was terrified. Why would God ask me to invite what could potentially be an abused or neglected kid into my family that I had spent so many years of my life protecting and raising right?”

She shared with her closest friends that she felt God was asking her to adopt or foster a child.

Over the next year the couple shared about their desire to adopt and were supported by an incredible community. They raised money having yard sales, family photography sessions, lemonade stands, custom t-shirts, jewelry sales and more. “Our friends helped us do it!” Erica recalled. “They donated their time and talents to come up with the most creative solutions to what seemed an impossible goal of $40,000. Working for free and using their greatest assets (and some dipping into savings accounts), we raised all $40,000.”

During those long months God was still speaking to Erica through dreams and powerful words from friends. She knew that they would adopt a girl. “I knew she would look like our family in race and appearance, that onlookers wouldn't know she was adopted unless we told them. I knew that the mother would be young. In reality, God could have sent us any child and we would have been blessed, but I knew moving forward what our baby would be like without having even met the birth mom.”

One Sunday after church (Joey is the Lead Pastor of New River Fellowship in Hudson Oaks, Texas), a young woman they knew approached them saying she believed she was supposed to give her baby to them. She was young, blonde

“When we said yes to adoption, we said yes to it all.”

and a single mom to three little girls. “We were nervous to continue this adoption process because this mom was in every aspect of our lives-- she went to our church, she knew where we lived, and her kids went to my kids’ school. We knew this version of ‘open adoption' would be VERY open. If this was going to end badly, it would impact everything.”

But the Willis’ quickly found it to be a wonderful situation. The birth mom’s heart to love her three little girls spilled over to her unborn baby. She wanted to work together to raise the child. “We had a baby shower together where we prayed over her and her girls. We went shopping together on the weekends and ate out together to get to know each other better. We truly feel she is just as much our family now as our baby. Oh, and the gender? We found out after being paired with her for adoption that she was having a baby girl!”

Reagan, known in the family for her big personality, is now two years old, looks just like a Willis and is frequently mothered, tickled and chased by her two older siblings.

Having been through the adoption process, Erica would heartily recommend it 100% to others. “It has grown me beyond myself and my safety bubble for my family and really made all of us live out our faith in a completely different way. It isn't easy, but when you know you are called to it by God, He gives you everything you need.” PCLS

A young woman they knew approached them saying she believed she was supposed to give her baby to them.

Kingsley Estate A Gift For Future Generations

By Peggy Purser Freeman

Photos Provided by Weatherford College

Weatherford College opens the Kingsley Building, honoring the most-listened-to radio voice in country music history.

As a young boy growing up in California, Bob Kingsley dreamed of being a cowboy. However, polio corralled Bob’s stick horse, and his childhood days turned into a slow recovery. During this time, he enjoyed listening to the radio. According to Chris Schneider, author of Starting Your Career in Broadcasting: Working On and Off the Air in Radio and Television, Bob said, "That's all I had was that radio there. I could move my arm, my hand, just enough to turn the dial... The soap opera stuff during the day I wasn't a big fan of, but in the evening when The Green Hornet and The Fat Man and all those great old radio shows were on... I was – what, six or seven – and it stayed with me." The hours of listening planted seeds in Bob’s dreams, and he rode into a future he never imagined.

Bob Kingsley began his professional career in 1958 while stationed with the Air Force in Keflavik, Iceland. In 1961, when he returned to California, he became a disc jockey. By 1978 Bob’s strong work ethic had formed a foundation to build a twenty-eight-year career as host of the nationally syndicated American Country Countdown (ACC). He received sixteen consecutive Network/Syndicated Program of the Year awards from Billboard while at ACC.

“After years of living in Los Angeles, we moved from California to Weatherford, Texas in 1995,” Bob’s wife, Nan Kingsley said. “As a cutting horse enthusiast, Bob loved being in Weatherford, the cutting horse capital of the world. Bob’s love of horses made it the perfect place to have the Bluestem Ranch that was his dream.” In 2006 Bob Kingsley’s Country Top 40 launched in the Bluestem Studios in Weatherford. Nan helped produce the Country Top 40 at Bluestem Studios, and it became part of the Kingsley legend.

Widely acknowledged as the most-listenedto radio voice in country music history, Kingsley won Country Music Association National Broadcast Personality of the Year honors in 2001 and 2003. He received the 2012 President's Award from Country Radio

By 1978 Bob’s strong work ethic had formed a foundation to build a twenty-eight-year career as host of the nationally syndicated American Country Countdown (ACC).

Broadcasters. In November 2016, he was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame. The only country radio personalities inducted before Kingsley were Blair Garner, Ralph Emery and Gene Autry. Inducted into the Country Radio Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Bob also received the Grand Ole Opry Living Legend Award.

In November of 2019, the month after he died, a celebration was held to celebrate Bob’s Country Music Hall of Fame award. Among the many attendees were country music stars Garth Brooks, Dierks Bentley and Trisha Yearwood.

"After Bob's passing there was never any question in my mind that Bluestem Studios, where Bob recorded for 25 years, should be in the possession of Weatherford College,” Nan explained. “The Parker County community became Bob's adopted hometown, and I know he would be overjoyed to know that present and future generations will learn the art of engineering and audio production in Weatherford. Thanks to the Kingsley estate’s generous donation of a majority of the Bluestem Studios facility with the college paying for the remainder, Weatherford College acquired the Nan and Bob Kingsley Building in June of 2020.

"We are extremely appreciative of the generosity of Nan and Bob Kingsley," WC President Tod Allen Farmer said during the June 2020 meeting when the board approved the agreement. "Their gift will benefit countless students for generations to come, all while honoring the memory and hall of fame career of Bob Kingsley.”

In November 2016, he was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame.

Weatherford College is also partnering with Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) and The Bluebird Cafe to digitize the entire 40-year audio history of the famed performance venue to honor Bob and his love of country music and those who wrote the songs.

“The gift of the Nan and Bob Kingsley Building, when coupled with the WC partnership with NSAI and The Bluebird Cafe, will dramatically expand our students’ educational opportunities,” said President Farmer. “Nan's gift will not only continue to honor Bob Kingsley through the decades, it will also have a profoundly positive impact on Weatherford College.”

The office space side of the building now serves as home to the office of the Weatherford College President the WC Foundation and Alumni Relations. The recording side of the building will serve as classroom space in the future for studies. Local businessman Charlie Gilchrist and Gilchrist Automotive have donated $100,000 to the

Thanks to the Kingsley estate’s generous donation of a majority of the Bluestem Studios facility with the college paying for the remainder, Weatherford College acquired the Nan and Bob Kingsley Building in June of 2020.

“The gift of the Nan and Bob Kingsley Building, when coupled with the WC partnership with NSAI and The Bluebird Cafe, will dramatically expand our students’ educational opportunities.”

WC Foundation earmarked for new equipment for the Mass Communication program in the Kingsley Building. In August, the WC board approved staff to pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree and certificate program in audio engineering with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The recording capabilities in the Kingsley Building will make the program possible. The gift from the Kingsley estate reflects the life and passions of this man with the mostlistened-to radio voice in country music history.

“This would make Bob so proud,” Nan Kingsley added. “The only thing he loved more than horses was radio."

“You touched our lives with your kindness, generosity of spirit, friendship, and enthusiasm for us, our artists and, most especially, the music. You will always be with us.” ~ Love, Your Universal Music Group Nashville Family.

Parker County friends agree the Kingsley Building at Weatherford College transports Bob Kingsley’s legacy into the future for the benefit of future generations. PCLS

The following quote is engraved on a plaque in memory of Bob Kingsley.

Doug & Lea Ann Hall Owners

Doug & Tyler Hall