M A G A Z I N E
-Architectural design feature home
-West side rebuild from 2022 Tornado
-Live like a local plus much more
Inside this issue: Our cover story: Flying high above PK -at home with PK Locals, Troy and Sherry Welch
Table of Contents
Coming back home to live at PK
Our Architectural Feature Home
You’ll love this modern gem located in The Harbor, owned by Jason and Ashley Stephens
Live like a local Chris and Tera Gibson have stayed at just about every place on the lake, read about their experiences and book your PK trip to live like a local!
Welcome to the late summer edition of PK Magazine! Publisher's Note
Howcoolisthatcoverphoto? TheminuteIsawit,Iknewthatwasit! Ilovethestory inside about Troy and Sherry Welch just as much as the cover. We first approached themaboutdoingastoryontheirbeautifulhomeanditmorphedintosomuchmore. Theirhomeisincredible,locatedonthetallestpeakinTheRanch,withpanoramicviews fromthenorthendtothesouthendofPossumKingdom. Thestoryofhowtheymet and where they were married, along with all their famous friends they’ve entertained makeitsuchafunread.
You’ll want to check out our architectural feature! The home of Jason and Ashley Stephens is absolutely stunning. I have no idea how they keep up with all those beautiful windows with three young kids, but they do. The outdoor space is just as spectacular. ErikaCarterknockeditoutoftheparkcapturingthephotosyou’resureto enjoy.
PKboastssomany beautiful homes. Our homefeatures arealways atthetopofthe leaderboard when we review our website analytics. They are the most read, and the mostshared,soweaddedathirdonetothiseditionforyourreadingpleasure. Check outthewestsiderebuildfromthe2022tornado. Theentirehome,screenedinpatio andbackofthehomewererebuiltfromthetornado. Thislovelylakecabinhasbeen transformedintoarusticmoderndesignershowcase.
Ifyoudon’talreadyhaveapet,Ibetyou’llbeitchingtogetone,ortwoafterseeingall the cute pets and their cute little stories inside. Thank you to all of our readers for sharingyourfurbabieswithus,theysurearefuntosee.
Ihaven’tcounted,butI’mguessingthiseditionmighthavemorelocalfacesandnames thananyothereditionwe’vedonebeforeandIlovethat! Itissofunseeingphotosfrom neighborhood gatherings, 4th of July festivities, business owners out and about mingling,etc. KeeptheSayCheesepicturescomingforourOctoberedition!
Thankyoutoallofouradvertisersandreadersforyoursupport.Enjoytheremaining days of summer with family and friends and have a safe and memorable Labor Day weekend. We’llbebackinOctoberwithourFall/Winteredition! Bewell!
Kim
Vol.4|No.3 LateSummer2024
Publisher: KimNussbaum
ContributingEditor: JohnJarvis
DigitalEditor: KimNussbaum
ContributingWriters: MichelleInce,PhD KimNussbaum SteveNussbaum
ContributingPhotographers: ErikaCarter JackFleetwood JonathanFowler
Distribution: Mailedtopaidsubscribers Distributedthrough strategicracklocations
Digitalreplicaeditioncanbefound onourwebsite pk-magazine.com
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NextIssue: October2024
Our Cover Story
Flying high above PK
At home, with Troy and Sherry Welch
Possum Kingdom Lake has many beautiful lake properties, and every issue of PK Magazine features an iconic home. This issue shines the spotlight on the home of Troy and Sherry Welch
Their beautiful home, located on the tallest peak in The Ranch, soars above the lake with panoramic views from the north end to the south end of Possum Kingdom.
These iconic views can only be seen from the air – or from the back patio of the couple’s home To the right, the north end of the lake is visible, where water is entering the lake from the Brazos River, and the view to
the left features the cliffs adjacent to the Morris Sheppard Dam.
Not only do the Welches live high above PK, but Troy Welch is a pilot and loves to fly over PK in his helicopter and two vintage planes He was a practicing attorney in Fort Worth, Texas, for several years before becoming a full-time corporate pilot. Sherry Welch, meanwhile, lived in Colleyville, Texas, and owned Renata Salon and Day Spa in nearby Grapevine The salon is in a historic downtown Victorian home, and her daughter now runs it.
Story by Steve Nussbaum | Photos by Erika Carter
Troy Welch still flies clients across the country, but the two have made PK their full-time residence.
It was Sherry Welch’s salon that provided a clue that led to their first date in 2012.
Aviation is a huge part of Troy Welch’s life, and the skies have been a part of the couple’s story since day one Twelve years ago, Sherry Welch was in New Jersey attending her son ’ s wedding, and she decided to take an earlier flight home. She was lucky enough to get rebooked, but was still in her wedding attire while boarding the flight
On that same flight, Troy Welch was traveling back to Dallas from Italy, making the final leg of his journey. Sherry Welch was seated in a middle seat between two very large individuals, and Troy Welch had a whole row to himself in front of her. He invited her to sit in the empty seat next to him, and at first she was reluctant –but she did have a four-hour flight ahead of her, so she accepted his offer
The two hit it off and talked for several hours, and the discussion included Sherry Welch’s spa in Grapevine. That information led to the clue that Troy Welch used to contact her once they landed, as he soon located the number for the business and gave her a call Sherry Welch had been single for 30 years and was reluctant to meet for a date, but the two of them had seemed to hit it off on the flight, so she agreed to a meeting
The two eventually tied the knot in 2015 – and, just like their chance meeting back in 2012, their wedding took place on a plane. On a trip with friends and family to Mexico, Sherry Welch had all the men turn their heads while she shimmied into her wedding dress in the private plane, and the couple exchanged vows at 41,000 feet before she walked down the aisle.
In 2017, the Welches decided to purchase a lake property. They considered buying in Horseshoe Bay, but Troy Welch had a client who had a home at PK, and both of them had heard good things about the lake. They looked at many homes on the lake, and even thought about a condo at The Harbor before their real estate agent, Keith Hanssen, mentioned a unique home that wasn’t quite on the lake.
“I’m showing you a property whether you like it or not,” Hanssen said. “But I think you might like this house.”
Renata Hair Salon & Day Spa in Grapevine was the clue Troy used to reach out to Sherry. Sherry’s daughter now runs this unique salon and spa in the old Victorian home.
Troy and Sherry married at 41,000 feet in the air on their trip to Mexico.
Hanssen drove them up the long winding road to a beautiful rustic home located at the top of the bluff, and Sherry Welch fell in love immediately with the curb appeal of the home and its isolated location. The expansiveviewssealedthedeal.
A few weeks later, the couple moved into their new PK home and celebrated with family and friends. Their PK dwelling has been the site of many family gatherings since, and some of those soirees have included the couple’s famous friends The Welches have hosted award-winningactorRobertDuvallseveraltimesattheir PKhome,andTreatWilliams,anactorwhosecareerhas spannedhalfacentury,alsohasbeenaguestthere.
The Welches and their famous acquaintances share a common interest in cutting horses, too Troy Welch’s uncle Buster Welch was a famous cutting horse trainer, and he made a cameo appearance on thehitshow
“Yellowstone” just before his death in June 2022. The couple played hosts to his 90th birthday party, and Duvall stayed at their home
Entertaining famous friends is great, Sherry Welch said, but she loves having the couple’s 15 grandchildren come visit even more
Not long after moving into the house, the two of them began the process of clearing the brush behind the home and building a pool along the back of the house. The pool and open space have made the breathtaking view even more spectacular.
Their home measures more than 3,700 square feet, with four bedrooms, four bathrooms, two living spaces and an office – and, like so many homes at PK, it’s all about the outdoor living. Sherry Welch said she enjoys sitting on her home’s front porch in the morning and watching
Troy and Sherry Welch love living at PK and feel like they have everything they need, right here at Possum Kingdom Lake.
the deer and birds. The side patio, with its outdoor fireplace, is also one of the couples’ favorite spots. The showstopper, though, is the pool view across the back of the home, where almost the entire lake is visible.
The main living space is open to the living room, dining room and kitchen, and features rustic ceiling beams and rock accents. Over the fireplace is a painting of Troy Welch’s famous uncle on a cutting horse
The home is filled with aviation and western accents, and upstairs is a family room and game room for the grandchildren. The home has rustic wood plank floors, and one of Sherry Welch’s favorite rooms is the sitting space/office off the kitchen, where she said she loves to relax and read a good book.
Even though the couple’s home is isolated, the Welches said they still feel connected to the lake community. A short drive down the hill puts them in the middle of
everything they need. Sherry Welch said she enjoys going to the Trading Post for groceries, as well as visiting the UPS Store and all the local restaurants
“We really have it all,” she said.
Their favorite part about living at the lake is how gracious the community members have been to them since becoming full-time residents The Welches said they feel they have more of a social life living at PK than they did when living in Colleyville, and they’ve enjoyed meeting the interesting people who also are living the Possum Kingdom Lake lifestyle
The Welches can sometimes be seen buzzing over PK in Troy Welch’s helicopter or one of his vintage planes, and at other times they can be found enjoying the view high above the lake from their backyard patio. But no matter whether it was luck or divine intervention that brought the two of them together, one thing is certain: They are living the “high life” at PK
The iconic view of Possum Kingdom Lake is what sold the Welch’s on their beautiful home.
Local Real Estate expert Keith Hanssen knew the Welch’s would love this mountain side home and Sherry immediately fell in love with the curb appeal of their home.
Sherry and her friend, Sherry Cagan enjoy a morning atop their mountain top retreat.
The Welch’s home is filled with aviation and western memorabilia.
This quaint sitting room is one of Sherry’s favorite parts of the home.
Photo by Jonathan Fowler, REALTOR® Possum Kingdom Real Estate
The
added a pool and made this spectacular view even better. You can see from the north end of the lake to the south end.
The master bedroom leads to the spectacular outdoor space.
Story continues with bonus pictures on page 16...
Welch’s
The great room features incredible views and rustic charm.
A portrait of Buster Welch, world famous cutting horse cowboy, hangs above the Welch’s fireplace.
One of Sherry’s favorite spots is to bird watch on their front porch.
The Welch’s 15 grandkids love the upstairs game room when they come to visit Troy and Sherry.
Flying high above PK
Troy and Sherry Welch have hosted several gatherings with family and friends at their PK home. Some of those soirees have included the couple’s famous friends. Photos contributed by Troy and Sherry Welch
Pictured above: Troy Welch and longtime actor friend, Treat Williams preparing for a flight.
Pictured left: Actor Treat Williams spending time with the Welch grandkids while visiting Possum Kingdom Lake.
Pictured left: Award-winning actor Robert Duval and Buster Welch spending time together at the Welch’s PK home.
Troy Welch’s uncle Buster Welch was a famous cutting horse trainer, and he made a cameo appearance on the hit show “Yellowstone” just before his death in June 2022. The couple played hosts to his 90th birthday, and Duvall stayed at their home.
In 2018, Troy and Sherry Welch walk the red carpet with Robert Duval at the Toronto Film Festival.
Pictured above: Long time friends, actors Rooster McConaughey and Robert Duval enjoy time at Possum Kingdom at the home of Troy and Sherry Welch.
Pictured below: Troy and Sherry Welch, along with their entire family in Mexico in 2015.
The Stephens watched this modern gem being built in The Harbor from their Villa condo and jumped at the chance to purchase it in 2021.
Coming back home to live at PK
....our Architectural Feature Home
For Jason and Ashley Stephens, moving to Possum Kingdom Lake has been one of the best decisions they’ve ever made. The couple, their three children and the family’s two dogs have been living the lake life full time since 2021 and taking advantage of all that lifestyle has to offer.
There are lots of young families at PK on the weekends, but most don’t live year-round there. However, if the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 taught American workers anything, it’s that business owners and employees can stay plugged into their job pretty much anywhere.
Ashley Stephens is a graduate of Graford High School and her family has a long history and legacy of ranching in Palo Pinto County dating back to 1898 making her
children seventh generation “ranchers ” She graduated from Texas Tech University in 2006 and later got a nursing degree, then worked at Palo Pinto General Hospital while living in Fort Worth.
Jason Stephens, meanwhile, grew up on Eagle Mountain Lake and attended Texas Christian University on an Army ROTC scholarship He later obtained his MBA and law degree from Baylor. He met his future wife in Fort Worth by way of mutual friends – and he had never been to Possum Kingdom until he met Ashley
The couple married and built what they thought would be their “forever home” in Aledo, Texas, but they also owned a condo at La Villa where they spent their weekends and continued to feel drawn to PK Just across
Story by Steve Nussbaum | Photos by Erika Carter
thewaterfromtheircondowasaspectacularmodern homebeingbuiltinTheHarbor.Theyadmiredthehome during its construction until one day when Jason Stephenstoldhiswife,“Thathouseacrossthecovejust wentonthemarket”
They decided to take a look at the dwelling, not knowing their quick decision would kick off a whole seriesoffast-movingevents Theylovedthehomeand itslocation,andwantedtobuythepropertybeforetheir childrenstartedschool,andsotheyimmediatelyputin anoffer
Withinafewdays,theysecuredacontractonthehouse in The Harbor and 30 minutes later they had a signed contracttoselltheirAledohomewithoutformallylisting it Three weeks later, they closed both deals and the couplewascelebratingthe4thofJulyintheirnewPK digs
ThenextbigissuefortheStephenswassortingoutwork and school priorities, and the idea of returning to the areawasabig part oftheirdecision Withthreeyoung
kids – 8-year-old Nixon, 7-year-old Saylor and 4-yearold Huxton – the couple knew they wanted their children to have the advantage of attending a small-town school
Jason Stephens is an accomplished attorney with his own personal injury law firm, Stephens Law, having a main office in Fort Worth, satellite offices in Mineral Wells and Weatherford and a home office, too. He usually spends a couple days a week in Fort Worth, and the rest of the time in Mineral Wells or working from his home office PK is this family’s happy place, and all of them love the balance of work, school, nature and the lake
Since moving, the couple has become involved in the Graford school district. Ashley Stephens said the school district has not been highly rated in years past, but Brandon Perry, the new Graford superintendent, along with teaching staff, have been working hard to rectify that and are doing an amazing job. A new school bond recently passed, and while state rankings were not yet
The Stephens great room is a wall of windows with spectacular views of the scenic point cove and Palo Pinto hills that surround Possum Kingdom Lake.
available at the time of this article, there is much anticipation that the school district’s rating is going to see a significant improvement over previous years
Ashley Stephens attributed this improvement to the new direction the school is headed including a 4-day school week and a positive learning environment for both educators and students The Stephens were so committed to helping improve the schools that Ashley ran for the local school board and won her election this past spring, so it’s safe to say the couple is fully committed to the local schools and community
The couple’s children enjoy school, but they just might enjoy the relaxed PK lifestyle even more. Nixon enjoys golf, basketball and baseball, Saylor enjoys basketball and softball, and Huxton enjoys T-ball and keeping up with his older siblings All three children love exploring the family ranch and riding in the family’s boat to go tubing, surfing, and visiting Bluff Creek to get ice cream and feed the fish
While most city youths have a playroom or yard for recreational activities, the Stephens’ children have a unique backyard space, with the lake as the backdrop. Their favorite spot is the outdoor living space, and it’s the first place they go in the morning for cartoons and breakfast, even during winter, because then they can close the screens and turn on the patio heaters.
The children also love the outdoor hammock and the custom rock trail down to their own little private beach area The couple has managed to create an amazing outdoor space that allows their children to enjoy the lake and its natural beauty.
The Stephens have made some major additions to their home in their three years of ownership They’ve added a third garage, office space, outdoor living area, and an expanded master bathroom and master closet. The home is a modern gem, with comfortable and modern features throughout
Guests entering the house are drawn to the view offered by the wall of windows and glass that run across the entire back of the house. The floor-to-ceiling windows create an incredible backdrop for the entire home, and the main living, dining and kitchen areas are all open to these incredible views
The dining room is separated from the living space by a beautiful open stone fireplace and wall of windows on the other two sides.
The gourmet kitchen has clean lines and is ultra stylish, but its the kids artwork that takes center stage.
The family media room is a favorite spot for family movie night or watching a game. Not to mention the views.
It’stheoutdoorlivingspaceoffthekitchenthatisthe family’s favorite spot, however. The home measures 5,800squarefeetandcontainsfivebedrooms,twoliving spacesandahomeoffice,andthegreatroomonthe mainlevelanchorstheentiredwelling
The home features a newly expanded master suite, master bathroom and master closet, all of which were must-haves for the Stephens, while an adorable bunk roomistheperfectspotforfriendsandcousins
TheStephenswenttogreatlengthstocreateanatural, rocky exterior that still was safe for their children and theirtwodogs,EvieandRipley Afamilymediaroomis locatedupstairs,andathird-levelrooftoppatiofeatures moregreatviewsofthelake
TheStephens’homeismodernindesign,butitfitsthe lifestyle of this modern family as all of them balance school, work and living at PK. The Stephens hope to make their community better for more young families looking to make Possum Kingdom Lake their full-time home,too.
Nixon enjoys a king bed and the awesome lake view from his bedroom. Not many kids get that kind of view living in the city.
The Stephens decision to live at PK full time required the master bath to be remodeled and the master closet to be expanded.
The bunkroom is a fun and stylish room for the kids friends and family to stay while visiting PK.
Spending time outside is one of the things the family loves most about living at the lake.
The third floor deck is a great spot to watch the boats and fireworks, or just have a nice place to relax and enjoy our wide open West Texas skies.
Pictured right: The Stephens have managed to make the ultimate outdoor space for kids, dogs and adults. The family loves to spend time on their own sandy beach.
Pictured below: The Stephens kids favorite room in the house is the outdoor living space. Heaters and screens make it the perfect spot year-round
The busy Stephens family finds time to vacation with their family as much as possible.
Jason Stephens enjoying down-time with his kids on a recent family vacation.
A Makeover for Willow Beach RV Park & Marina
Story by Michelle Ince | Photos by Erika Carter
One of the recently added additions is a new ADA-accessible pool that features a hot tub, and there are two fountains available for children who may prefer to play outside the pool in a “splash pad” setting.
Those in search of a family-friendly vacation at beautiful Possum Kingdom need to look no further than the recently updated Willow Beach RV Park and Marina
Willow Beach, a Possum Kingdom staple for decades, has been under the watchful eye of Advanced Outdoor Management for the past four years, and now this local feature is getting a new look and feel
Amanda Stewart, AOM’s regional manager, said the focus of the ongoing renovations is to provide a place where all family members can find something to do
According to Stewart, guests can either camp at the RV
park or rent out any of the seven newly built twobedroomcottages,ofwhichtwocomplytothestandards of the Americans with Disabilities Act As of July 4, three cottages are available for rent, while the others will be availableafterLaborDay
Othernewfeaturesforguestsincludefreeaccesstothe boat ramp The docks have been updated, too, and slips can be rented by the day or by the month – and there’s alsoboatstorageforguestsifneeded.
Theboatrampwillstillbeavailableforthosenotstaying atWillowBeach,buttherewillbeasmallfeetohelppay formaintenanceoftheramp.
The new ADA-accessible pool features a hot tub, and there are two fountains available for children who may prefer to play outside the pool in a “splash pad” setting. The pool has two water park features, and there are plans for more such features to be added in the coming months.
Other amenities available for guests include:
·A pickleball court with a basketball goal.
·Cornhole boards
·A volleyball court
·Horseshoes.
This fall, Willow Beach is scheduled to open a dog park for those four-legged family members, and children can also look forward to planned activities and crafts
The Willow Beach store itself has also been newly renovated, including an expansion of the ADA-accessible porch area that can be used for family events and gatherings.
Both the porch and pool will be lighted as well, and Stewart said the property focuses on family activities, with the goal to provide an engaging experience for every guest.
To book a stay at Willow Beach, call the office at (817) 753-0579, send an email to contact@willowbeach.com or visit the website www willowbeach com
Newly renovated store, including expansion of the ADA-accessible porch area that can be used for family events and gatherings.
Guests may either camp at the RV park, or rent one of these seven new two bedroom cottages for family fun time.
Interior of one of seven new two bedroom cottages. Two of the cottages comply to the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Lighted pavilion area for picnics and gatherings
Beach Makeover (story continued from page 27)
Updated docks with slips available for rent by the day or the month
Activities include horseshoes, pickleball, basketball, volleyball, cornhole and more.
Willow
PK Locals and their pets
Bentley Loves her view from her balcony Owners Ray and Denise Bellucci
Meet Jagger, Granddog of David and Laura Cowan of Gaines Bend. Jagger lives in Arkansas with their oldest daughter Kaylee! Jagger loves coming to the lake!!! He’s 3 years old.
PK Locals and their pets
Harvie the female pug is well known in Golden Cove. She greets walking neighbors and those on golf carts with great enthusiasm. Owner: Lorrie Rendon
Simba The Cat 5 Years Old Owner: Melanie Deen
Meet Reggie, a 5-year-old black and tan dachshund owned by Kyle and Jamie Whisman in Sportsmans World. Reggie is known as the dog who walks all over Sportsmans World and especially down the hill to the ship store at Bluff Creek Marina for a treat. Reggie loves the boat and can be seen most Saturdays in Hells Gate, anchored with his neighbors at The Escape at Bluff Creek Condos
Meet Sugar, Buddy and Lisa Clutt’s Cocker Spaniel they rescued in November 2015. They were told she was about 3 years old but it was obvious she was much older Seeing the conditions she was living in, there was no way they were leaving without her.
Sugar needed them, but they needed her more! They did their best to see that she had an enjoyable life. They always said quality not quantity. Little did they know that they would only have her a little less than 7 years
She was beautiful, funny and smart. She was also a diva.
She “told” them when it was time to eat, and she demanded a ride every evening, which they obliged.
She loved to travel and was the ultimate “glamper”! Their motto was, “If Sugar can’t go, we won’t go”. She was a great geocaching pup and made for good distractions on many occasions.
She loved living at PK!
In Loving Memory of Sugar
Got you day November 3, 2015 - September 21, 2022
PK Locals and their pets
Meet Case, he’s never met a chick he didn’t like. Case is Kim and Steve Nussbaum’s great nephew and he loves coming to Possum Kingdom Lake.
Hooker Is Navigating Austin Aylor to shore.
Allison Aylor: Golfing with Red (Heeler) and Hooker at the Cliffs.
P nd their pets
MeetAspen.Sheisarescuedogsounsureofherbreed,but wethinksheis1½-2.Sheis45poundsnow,up14since DallasAnimalControlrescuedherlastfallHernamewas giventoherbyherfostermom,butshecouldeasilyhave beennamedStripe!Shehaslotsofenergyandlovesother dogs,buttakesawhiletowarmuptopeopleUNLESSthey haveadog.HerbestfriendisMinniePoulosandtheyLOVE playingtogetheratTheCliffstenniscourts. AspenbelongstoKathyLanpherofTheCliffs.
Meet Charlotte Bender. Everyone at The Cliffs loves Charlotte! Charlotte’s humans are Ron and Cathy Bender
Koia (grand fur baby of Ron and Cathy Bender of The Cliffs) enjoying the sunset over 4th of July weekend!
PK Locals and their pets
Cash and Jaxon on a Rochelle’s River Trip with Chad Nix
Jimmy, Marcy and Bear Stewart
Bear is a very energetic 7 year old mixed breed (Australian shepherd, healer, boxer, and pit bull).
He loves riding on the Mule and playing golf with his daddy on slow days. He loves everybody and almost all dogs His favorite treats are ice cubes and carrots.
He greets everyone going down Cliffs Dr. with lots of barks, He’s just wanting to say hi. He is also spoiled rotten because he is so special to the Stewarts.
Lars Hanssen and Wolfie
PK Locals and their pets
ThisisSpanky.She wasacherished memberofthe French/Willingham family.ShelovedPK Lakeasmuchasher familyaslongas shewasdryand thegeeseweren’t onherturf.They willalwayscherish theprecious memorieswith theirsassy“Spanky Doodle”.2010-2024 ShannonFrench Can-AmCruisinwithCrew!Crewisa5yearoldminiature DachshundthatlivesinTheCliffs.Hisfavoritethingtodois rideintheCan-Am.Crew’shumans,MontyandAngela Montgomerysetupaspecial“ramp”&pillowsohecangetas closetotheactionaspossibleinthewindshield.Hewillride forhourstakingintheview,checkingontheboatatthe marina,barkingatthedeer&enjoyinglakelife.Itsexpected thathegetsaCan-Amridedaily ThelifeofCrew!
PK Locals and their pets
ThisisLoki-heisaMastiffandAmericanBulldogmix.Helovesfireworksandgunshots,getssupermadandsulksifyoudon’t takehimforridesonthePolariseveryday.Heisabout8yearsold.HisownersareShelleyandTrevorLively.
MeetFinn,LesleaCochran’s“bonusdog”. FinnbelongstoMikeSartainofTheCliffs. A7yearoldyellowlabthatlovesthewater. Butplayingfetchinthewaterishis favorite. Well,thatandsuppertime!
MeetLittleShea, she’sinDoggie Heavennow. She was15yearsold whenLesleahadto putherdown almostayearago Herfavoritething wasjustbeingin herhuman’slap.
LesleaCochran
This is Miss Molly, Daughter of Dolly. Yes that is her entire name.
She is an American Beefmaster Advancer heifer.
In these pictures she is with her favorite humans Bellanee & Brantlee.
Miss Molly loves kisses, cuddles, naps, taking baths and going for walks.
Miss Molly lives local in Graford. Her owners even attend Graford ISD.
Lacy Pippin
How sweetitistobe lovedby you!
PK Locals and their pets
BojanglesShihTzuMix,age11ish-He’shadmajorlife upgradessincebeingfoundonthesideoftheroad9years ago. Bojanglesabsolutelyhatesthewaterandwillavoiditat allcostsunlessmomhasbeenonthefloattoolongwithout payingattentiontohimandwillswimouttoherevenatthe riskofbeingtakenoutbyaroughwavebecauseofseparation anxiety.
MeetWaylonBernedoodleAge4-Lovesthelakeandwants tobeinthewaterallyearlong-Doesn’tknowhe’s110lbs andwantstositinmom’slap,ifnotinthewater. Waylon isaBigfanoftortillachips,he’lldojustaboutanythingif tortillachipsareinvolved.
Phoenix,Red,TerryOrtiz andAustinAylorchillinon PK.
WaylonandBojangles“pawrents”areZach&WhitneyHurst
MeetHooker. Sheis1yearold andhasafriendly, lovingnatureand triestobossher siblingsathome. Hooker’sparents areTerryOrtiz andAllisonAylor
PK Locals and their pets
MeetPicodeGallo!ThischihuahuaisownedbyGaryandAndrea Ozier.TheyhaveahomeinSportsman’sWorld.PicodeGallodoesn’t necessarilylovethelake,butheloveshispeoplesohegoeswhere theygo!HewasrescuedonCincodeMayosevenyearsago,he’s somewherebetween9and13yearsold.
MeetEllieandAbby. Ellieisa6-year-old GoldenDoodle. Shewasbornonagarlic farminCalifornia. Abbyisa14-year-old BichonFrise. EllieandAbby’sparentsare SteveandKimNussbaumofTheCliffs. ManyarefamiliarwithEllieandAbby,as theyliketogreetyouwithfriendlybarks andstaresonthe13thteeboxatThe CliffsGolfCourse. Theyenjoywatching yourgameandtheyespeciallylikeit whenyoutalktothem! Abbyisthedog thathasalwaysremainedapuppy, althoughshe’s14,shehasalotofspunk andlovestochaselizardsandstareat grasshoppers(allday). Bothdogsloveit whentheircousinTopsy(Labpicturedto theright)andAuntChloe(Corgipictured totheright)cometovisit. Theyalso enjoytheirUncleHouser(notpictured).
Live like a local
Pictured above: Tera and Chris Gibson, along with their great niece, London, age 6 1/2 at The Cliffs Resort. The Gibson’s have experienced numerous “Gibson Adventures” at Possum Kingdom Lake and have enjoyed introducing their great niece to the lake.
Chris and Tera Gibson may reside in Abilene, Texas, but they’re at Possum Kingdom so often that one could be forgiven thinking they at least have a second home here.
They’ve stayed at just about every place on Possum Kingdom Lake, and they don’t have a bad thing to say about any of them – or their own unique perks, either
They schedule plenty of “Gibson PK Adventures” into their calendar and make the most of each adventure, including water activities, special events and visiting nearby communities around the lake
The Gibsons listed their favorite experiences and destinations, beginning with the southeastern side of the lake, to share with those who plan to visit Possum Kingdom Lake.
For starters, The Cliffs Resort is the couple’s primary location to stay at the lake. They enjoy the resort-like pools, the sandy beach, the Cliffs Ship Store & Marina and The Chaparral Grill The Inn at The Cliffs was where they said they first really experienced what the lake had to offer, but once it burned they had to expand their options. Now that the inn has re-opened, they are looking forward to adding that site back into their rotation.
When looking for a little faster pace, the Gibsons said they enjoy the many options on The Peninsula. They said they enjoy staying at Lush Resort, where they said it feels like they’ve escaped to a Caribbean resort with the stunning water views from the restaurant and the many pools, one being lakeside. They said they love the upbeat
Story by Kim Nussbaum Photos contributed by Tera Gibson
vacation vibes from the waterfront suites and bungalows, as well as the live music.
For a more cost-effective option, the couple recently stayed at Motorboat Inn. They said they found it to be not only budget-friendly, but also well-organized and very clean The location is also a plus, with access to Redbird Trail from the back of the property.
The two of them have also stayed at a tiny house at Bonita Shores that they said they found very familyfriendly It was more of a camping/outdoor experience, they said, but with all the amenities of a nice hotel Deer were everywhere, they said, as well as other various wildlife that made the location fun.
For Chris Gibson, his favorite place to stay was on Ray and Vickie Tucker’s boat “Harmony,” which is docked at Bonita Shores RV & Marina He said the boat was wonderful and provided a nautical feel to the couple’s visit. Sitting on the bridge in the morning having coffee and watching the marina traffic was peaceful, relaxing and entertaining, he said, adding that the best part of this adventure was meeting the Tuckers, who hedescribed
& Marina. Out of all the places the pair have stayed at Possum Kingdom Lake, Chris claims his favorite place to say was on Ray and Vickie Tucker’s boat “Harmony.” They loved the nautical feel it provided and found it to be peaceful, relaxing and entertaining.
Story continues on page 62
Chris and Tera Gibson aboard “Harmony”, at Bonita Shores RV
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as fun and interesting. He said he and his wife could havetalkedtothemforhoursabouttheiradventures.
When looking for a laid-back weekend with friends, the GibsonslikedstayingonthewestsideofthelakeatFox Hollow.ChrisGibsonsaidhefelttransportedbacktohis childhood, adding that the vibe on that side of the lake ismuchmorelikewhatherememberedgrowingup
The two of them said they enjoy eating at Hungry Fox Restaurant, and they also enjoy dropping by Foxy’s Cantinaforfunlivemusicoverlookingthelake Theysaid they always find managers Gina and Gary Latimer to be hard at work, but also friendly, accommodating and appreciativeoftheGibsonsbeingthere.
The couple also enjoys eating at P H ll l located on the west side of the lak the food there never disappoints, a feellikethey’retreatedlikefamilyth
The couple also enjoys various co
and the surrounding area, such as the Possum Kingdom Chamber of Commerce’s annual Possum Fest This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Possum Fest Great Outdoors BBQ & Chili Cook-Off, which takes place Oct. 4-5.
Mardis Gras is another favorite for the Gibsons The couple starts out at 2 Old Crows for lunch, then moves on to the parade route before ending up at Lush Resort for the after-party festivities
Other events the Gibsons enjoy include the Muscle Boat Races, the Crazy Water Festival in Mineral Wells and Graham’s Downtown Square.
The couple’s myriad adventures are never complete Trading Post on the eastern side of e Mercantile on the west side. The d both stores unique ting for? Come live like a PK local!
Tera and Chris Gibson, along with their great niece, London enjoy the hiking trails, water adventures, various events and local hot spots Possum Kingdom Lake has to offer.
West Side Rebuild from 2022 Tornado
Story by Steve Nussbaum
The entire roof, screened in patio and back of home were rebuilt from 2022 tornado.
Possum Kingdom Lake is a magical place for Ellie Bomar, but even she will admit it’s not the easiest place to live.
She likes it that way, though.
Bomar lives on one of the most isolated roads on PK’s western side, and she recently completed a two-year rebuild of her magnificent home after a tornado raced across the lake on March 21, 2022. Bomar has managed to persevere despite the tornado, floods, wildfires, supply chain issues and reluctant contractors who didn’t want to take on the large rebuilding project.
With the help of Jake Womack Construction & Cornerstone Pools out of Graham, Texas, in addition to designer Cindy Terwilliger from Furnishings With Flair in Grapevine, Texas, Bomar has taken a lovely lake cabin and turned it into a rustic modern designer showcase.
The home is a designer’s dream, but Bomar was thoughtful in leaving many of the design imprints that
the previous owners, Robert and Andrea Jennings, had left in the house. For Bomar, it was the original character of the home, which the Jennings built, that drew her to the property in the first place
Andrea Jennings owned an antique store in Graham, and her husband built a log cabin in the front of the property for his woodworking shop. When Bomar bought the home, it was filled with Andrea Jennings’ art and her husband’s whimsical woodworking
“The home was wonderfully decorated,” Bomar said, adding that she loved the rustic design
The Jennings left everything in the home, and Bomar made it her own. That all changed in March 2022, when a tornado ravaged the property. It had been a stormy day, Bomar recalled, with multiple severe weather alerts. She and her dog, Indy, were home alone about 3 p.m. that afternoon when Bomar saw the tornado enter Elm Creek Cove She said she felt her
ears pop before rushing under the house’s stairs with Indy Ten minutes later, her roof was gone, along with one side of the home, and Bomar said she could see the sky when she opened a closet. Water was rushing inside.
Bomar began the rebuilding process, cleaning up and working with her insurance company She rented an apartment in Fort Worth but spent plenty of time at the property, too, living in the bunkhouse and using what was left of the kitchen and bathrooms in the main house until the repairs were completed in February of this year.
Bomar was a COVID-19 pandemic transplant to PK back in 2020, after having lost her husband to multiple sclerosis the year before She said her spouse had always mentioned Possum Kingdom fondly before he passed away.
After her husband died, Bomar moved in with her father, who was in declining health. One weekend during the pandemic lockdowns, the two of them decided to make a weekend trip to Lush Resort on the east side of PK, where they met Bo and Gelasia Bennett, the resort’s owners. Bomar and her dad fell in love with the lake and asked Bo Bennett to help them find a lake property.
Bomar, her father and her son Zach all moved to Possum Kingdom in August 2020. She said she loved living in the multigenerational home, and the three of them had lots of fun living at the lake Her father loved the lake, she said, and he spent many nights sitting at the bar at Possum Hollow.
Bomar said she’s grateful for the generosity the staff at Possum Hollow showed her dad, who passed away during the final days of the pandemic It was around this time that Bomar’s son moved back to Dallas, too.
“Between the tornado and fires, my home was on the PK Lake ‘disaster tour’ for two years, ” she said.
About halfway through her rebuilding project, Bomar decided to give the home a more modern design while still retaining its rustic charm She took a mix of highend furnishings, consignment-shop finds and discount home-decor discoveries to create a designer showcase, all while paying tribute to the former owners
Bomar has kept some of the rustic decor and signs of the previous owners as an homage to the original house.
were saved from the original home.
The kitchen is a mix of modern Viking appliances, cabinets and converted antiques. The unique brick flooring
The home is a mix of antiques and modern accents with custom window coverings throughout.
The grounds of the home are covered in lush St Augustine grass and dotted with beautiful large cedar trees;infact,theformerownersnicknamedtheproperty “Big Cedar.” After the tornado, Bomar added a threecar garage to the front of the home and kept the original stone walkways in the garden to the front door and alongside the rocky cliff to the modern dock The dock is one of her favorite spots to watch sunsets and stargaze.
The small log cabin where Bomar and her dog lived during the rebuilding project is now a well-appointed bunkhouse,andtheentirepropertyisfencedandgated mainly because of the prevalence of wild hogs. In fact, Bomar has a wild hog statue in the yard as a humorous tributetotheseannoyinganimals.
Theinsideofthehomeisgorgeous,butit’stheoutdoor spacesthatarespecial.Themainlevelofthehomehas awraparoundscreened-inporchthatanchorsthehome andistheperfectspottoenjoyacupofcoffee,reada book or just relax It is Bomar’s favorite part of the house, but it had to be totally rebuilt after the tornado On the second level is another beautiful outdoor living spacewithafireplace,livinganddiningspace.
“Each level gives a different view and feel of the lake,” shesaid.
On the side of the home is a barbecue deck with an outdoorshower.
Guests enter the home’s great room, which is open to the main dining, living room and kitchen areas, and the whole space has decorator touches galore. Roman shadesfromIndonesia,customfurnitureandrusticwood floors are just a few of the many embellishments, and oneofBomar’sfavoriteitemsisheroriginalSusana
Sierra painting in the dining room. It’s modern, but the colors match the color scheme in the home
The main living space was rebuilt to match the original plastered walls, wood beams and wood accents that can be found throughout the home. The kitchen is outfitted with Viking appliances and original brick flooring, and the black granite countertops and antique accent pieces show off a unique designer kitchen.
The entire home is filled with rustic homage to the original owners. All the doors are unique and add character throughout, and even the laundry room has rustic touches, such as an old wood chair that’s been converted into a hanger rod for clothes. The secondhand treasures and modern pieces mix to make a perfect lake setting, including an old phone cabinet located down a hall that contains a handheld phone Bomar found in a thrift shop.
Off the garage is a game room, and all the bedrooms have designer window treatments and designer bedding
The structure is large, measuring 3,800 square feet with four bedrooms and an office upstairs, but it feels like a charming lake cabin.
Bomar said she enjoys it when her two sons, Zach and Luke, visit, and she added that the best part of having a lakehouse is when it is filled with people One of her fondest parties was a “girls weekend” when she entertained 12 friends from Dallas, playing a game called mahjongg and enjoying the ladies-only weekend escape
Bomar’s tenacity, hard work and a desire to create a beautiful space are what drove her to rebuild her home at Possum Kingdom and share it with family and friends.
The bunkhouse where Bomar and Indy lived while the home was under construction. It was originally a work shop for the previous owner.
The wrap around screened in porch was completely rebuilt after the tornado and is now one of Bomar’s favorite parts of the house.
Business After Hours
Graham Savings hosted the 2nd Quarter Possum Kingdom Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours
Graham Savings spoiled the local business community with great food, beverage, hospitality and fabulous door prizes at the 2nd Quarter Business After Hours. Business After Hours is a quarterly program organized by The Possum Kingdom Chamber of Commerce for Chamber Members.
Justin Burney, Linda Fewell and Hannah Holstein
Codie Hedge, Rick Day, Colton Ellis, Jeff Boland
Sherry Gunyon, Cassie Simons
Merit Holstein, Lars Hanssen, William Busey
Rick Day, Colton Ellis
Amy Pinkston, Steve Nussbaum, Michele Weber
Sue Cathey, Anna Boland, John Morris
Business After Hours
Amy Pinkston, Judy Smith, Colton Ellis, Codie Hedge, Dave Smith.
Judy Smith was the recipient of one of the fabulous door prizes provided by Graham Savings.
Business After Hours is a quarterly function organized by The Possum Kingdom Chamber of Commerce for the business community.
Ter Ter’s on the Boardwalk
FolkswholivedaroundPossumKingdomLakeinthe1980s mightrememberMoore’sMaltShop.Itwasagreatplace tosatisfyasweettoothorgrabaquickbite.
Ifthosesamefolkshavebeenmissingthoseoldmaltshop days,thenTerTer’sistheplaceforthemtotry.
The business initially opened last summer, but has reopenedthissummerwithnewhoursandanewmenu.
Terri Finch, who owns the Ter Ter’s with her husband, Gary, decided that retirement was dull, and she added thatstayingbusyisamustforher,sowhatbetterwayto staybusythanopenanewbusiness?
Pictured above: Terri and Gary Finch, owners of Ter Ter’s on the Boardwalk, along with Sofia, winner of the kayak giveaway for Ter Ter’s Grand Opening.
Story by Michelle Ince | Photo courtesy of Terri Finch
ThecouplehadbeenlivinginNewMexico,butFinch’s husband loves lakes, so when they decided to move four years ago, a home in the Hills at PK ended up beingtheplaceforthem.
Finch said she’s been in the restaurant business for morethan30years,andduringthatstretchsheran36 Arby’s,2DairyQueensandanOrangeJulius.Sheran MJGCorporateoffice,handlingalloftheadvertising and real estate for the owner, Jay Gluck. She also opened her own restaurant, in addition to opening andrunningasportsbarinRoswell,NewMexico.
Finchsaidstaffingshortagesslowedherdownafter TerTer’sopenedlastsummer,butoneparticularhire helpedsolvethatproblem PattyNelson,anamethat maybefamiliartosomePKresidentsfromPKSports Bar,becameavailabletohelpoutandcook
When Nelson became available, Finch said she jumpedatthechancetobringheronboard
Ter Ter’s, located next to the Trading Post, offers counter-servicefoodinadditiontocones,maltsand shakes Old-fashioned sundaes, banana splits
andfloatsarealsoonthemenu–andifallthatisn’t enough, Ter Ter’s also offers homemade cookies, cinnamonrolls,sconesandmuffins.
Finch,whosaidsheabsolutelyloveschildren,noted thatTerTer’sevenofferstobethehostforbirthday parties, adding: “All the food is good, but the best thingisseeingthekidshappy.”
Ter Ter’s also has custom party trays available, and while the restaurant does not serve alcohol, it is a BYOB(bringyourownbeverage)establishment.
Themenuisalsoevolvingas Finch and Nelson work together,butonethingthat will stay the same are the fun quotes on the back of the menu, which includes quips such as “BYOB does not mean ‘bring your other boyfriend’”and“Kiddos,eat yourdinnerornoicecream foryou!”
SayCheeese!
PK Locals share fun pics from around the lake with friends and family!
Blakelee, Ryan and Neilee Hutt Son-in-law and granddaughters of Mark and Barbara Vinson.
Marcia and David Fox, along with Mary Hill enjoying time with neighbors at the Gaines Bend Fish Fry.
Neilee Hutt, granddaughter of Mark and Barbara Vinson - enjoying the music at David and Tammy Holley’s fish fry in Gaines Bend
SayCheeese!
Clyde Pogson, Amy Springer and Holly Chandler enjoying the Annual Hell’s Gate Fireworks Show at the home of Clay and Amy Springer
Debbie Jarboe, Amy Springer and Pat Murchison enjoying time with neighbors at the Gaines Bend Fish Fry at the home of David and Tammy Holley
SayCheeese!
Megan Murchison and John Wolpert cooking a summer turkey dinner for third year medical students at the Lubbock home of PK locals, Pat and Jasmine Murchison
Pictured far right, future doctors give the summer turkey dinner a Guns Up!
Megan and John “wrecked” the dinner!
SayCheeese!
Scenes from Juniper Ridge 4th of July Fireworks at Lush
Photos by Kim Nussbaum
Resort.
Pictured left to right: Aaron Phillips, Aubrey Phillips, Abbi Phillips, Mike Phillips, Amy Phillips, Austin Aylor
Christina Clark, Jackson Clark, Shawn Clark, Michael Barnes, Kasee Williams
The Giles Family
Jay Guy and Alicia Whitt
Kevin Crooks, Singer - Austin Allsup, Jagger Allsup, Allie Allsup, Chelsea Allsup, Cheney Crooks
Lush Resort was lit up like the 4th of July! Austin Allsup did not disappoint and The Juniper Ridge Fireworks were amazing
SayCheeese!
Nicky Rosandich Owners of Lush Resort, Bo and Gelasia (G) Bennett
Left to right: Kyle Smith, Kolen Smith, Valorie Key,
Pictured left to right: Diane Tacker, Melissa Foley, and Lloyd Raforth
SayCheeese!
4th of July continued
Pictured left to right: Brice Hooker, Cooper Tryer, Jacob, Truett McClellan, Landon Wagner, Marius and Sander from Norway.
Pictured left to right: Olivia Macleod, Tyler Marie Mills, Kassidy Dearing, Ella Fleming, Olivia Rickards
Pictured left to right: Audrey Goodgion, Rustin Goodgion, Olivia Goodion, Ashley Oldham
Pictured left to right: Brian Hooker, Braxton Turner, Raylie Turner, Rose Hooker, Klaire Turner, Bridgett Turner, Madeline Hooker, Mia Gilmore.
Pictured left to right: Holly Chandler, Jennifer Scalia, Allison Aylor and Cheney Crooks
Pictured left to right: Gracie, Wendy and Kirk Farquhar
SayCheeese!
GAINES BEND FISH FRY SCENES FROM
Mary Hill and Stacey Allen
Barbara Vinson and Connie Collier
Reid Hill and Bill Moss
Bobbie Martin & Ruth White
Jackie Fewell and J.D. Daniels
Tracy and Jim Switzer
Michael Gilliam aka The Lonesome Fugitive
Volunteer Fire Department Cooks Captain Donnie Jones and Chief David Easley
Photos by Barbara Vinson
SayCheeese!
Friendly Dahlia helping out this summer at 2 Old Crows Dahlia is the daughter of Chelsey Leathers
Photo by Steve Nussbaum
and Kim Nussbaum and Teresa and Jay Kidwell
Abbie Helm (center) is the recipient of the Texas Tech Lake Country Scholarship, one of many scholarships she received. Proud parents are Darren & Brenda Helm
Pictured left to right: Mica Waggoner, Texas Tech Alumni Association; Curt Langford, Texas Tech Alumni Association CEO; Lane McMillan Texas Tech Alumni; Robert Giovannetti, Texas Tech University Assistant Athletic Director, Brendan Weatherman and Chris Blanton
Steve
