Welcome to Wise 2023

W I S E Welcome to

Going for a Spin

For this year’s game-themed Welcome to Wise, our cover is a nod to the classic board game “Life.” Our “players” — advertising sales representative Sandy Crump and reporter Brendan Marchand, pictured here studying their next move on the game board — are featured in a 1965 Mercury Comet Caliente convertible, which we thought looked a lot like the car game piece in “Life.” You’ll note our models are wearing pink and blue like the pegs used in the game. Special thanks to the Kozlowski family for the use of their classic vehicle, which was photographed in New Fairview.

PHOTOS BY HANNAH KING/WCMESSENGER AND AUSTIN JACKSON/WCMESSENGER

COVER DESIGN BY HANNAH KING/WCMESSENGER

Called the oldest business in Wise County, Wise County Abstract Company was established in 1878.

The name was changed to Wise County Title Company in 1987 to better reflect the scope of our business and services.While many others have come and gone, Wise County Title Company has Stood the Test of Time. For 145 years we have served the citizens of Wise County and called its communities our home.

For almost a century and a half, our title plant has provided accurate, reliable information; Yesterday for abstracts and Today for Title Insurance.Today, with computer-aided search ability and digitized document viewing of all years of our county’s property records, Wise County Title Company Provides Speedy Service to go with Our Century-old Record of unmatched stability and reliability.

First Here, BEST Here, Still Here

940-627-3581

l al sol t o s

Welcome to the Game of Wise

CONTENTS

This year’s edition of Welcome to Wise contains 140 pages.

OBJECT OF THE GAME

Players are invited to learn all about Wise County by reading stories and advertisements, and then explore our local amenities, whether it’s single player or multi-player.

Begin on page one and read the stories and advertisements before moving to the next page. Be sure to look for our car ga e pieces to help guide you on your path long the way, you ll find fun facts and infor ation about Wise County.

For instance, the Wise County town of Bridgeport is celebrating its 150th birthday this year, and a celebration is planned for this fall ou ll find our crabble -inspired feature inside

For fans of “I Spy,” we invite you to focus on the natural beauty of the LBJ National Grasslands through the lens of members of the LBJ Grasslands Project.

ver wish that andy and was a real place ou ight find a sweet adventure in downtown ecatur

If card games are more your speed, how about a game of “Go Fish” where you’ll learn about Lake Bridgeport and the new amenities of Wise County Park?

One of the most popular games of all time is “Trivial Pursuit,” but you’ve probably never tested your knowledge quite like this with our Wise County version.

The pages of Welcome to Wise also contain information on local businesses, social groups, history, government, health and social services and much more.

WIN!

After you’ve read the entire publication, be sure to visit the featured locations and shop at the advertised businesses you’ve learned about along your journey. You win! And small businesses win, as well! Actually, everyone wins in this game!

So whether you are a new resident or just visiting, we hope you Stay and Play in Wise.

Brian Knox Special

Roy J. Eaton

President/Publisher

Kristi Bennett

General Manager

Lori White

Advertising Manager

Austin Jackson Editor

Wise County Messenger Staff

Brian Knox Special Projects Manager

Micah McCartney

Sports Editor

Brendan Marchand Editorial

Jillian Nachtigal Editorial

Mack Thweatt Editorial

Alexis Towery Paginator/Editorial

Laura Belcher Advertising Sales

Sandy Crump Advertising Sales

Manager Wise County Messenger

Jenifer Kozlowski Advertising Sales

Donna Bean Classifieds

Hannah King Graphic Artist

Jim Bob Hampton Subscriber Services

David Sherman Subscriber Services

Tony Grimes Subscriber Services

Bill Bowyer Subscriber Services

Julyssa Cantu Summer Intern

TF Vineyard & Winery

Boyd | Texas tfvineyard.com

Location, Community & Quality Living, Starts Here!

Location, Community & Quality Living, Starts Here!

Single & Multi-Family Residences Available! We offer month-to-month and fixed-term Leasing.

Single & Multi-Family Residences Available! We offer month-to-month and fixed-term Leasing.

Karl Klement Properties, Inc 605 N Bus 287, Ste 102

P O Box 505, Decatur, TX 76234

Karl Klement Properties, Inc. 605 N Bus 287, Ste 102 P O Box 505, Decatur, TX 76234

(940) 627-6362 klementproperties.com

(940) 627-6362

City to Honor 150 Years of History

ast eets rese t —

ridgeport s th anni ersar

ill celebrate the past acco plish ents of the cit , hile also recogni ing the present leaders and the bright future to loo for ard to ictured abo e is the the irst ational an building, here s ridgeport eets odern da do nto n at the corner of th and alsell treet

With Celebration This October

re a arc a

n , illia unt founded the settle ent of est or , powered by a charter grant fro the est or Bridge o pany, to build a bridge across the rinity iver near odern day ar oad

hirteen years later, after the deteriorated wooden bridge was replaced with iron, a post office was established, thus officially instituting the ity of Bridgeport in n , the city oved one ile east to ta e advantage of the nearby oc sland ailroad, and beca e a hub for the cattle and dairy industry

Over the next five decades, Bridgeport continued to prosper under the revelation that the city was ho e to a wealth of natural resources, ost notably coal han s to harles ates, the ise ounty oal co pany was for ed and was a chief coal producer for the tate of exas into the s he last ine, the ingleton oal ine, closed at the start of orld ar , and any laborers began

wor ing at the nearby bric and roc plants ith the energy sector shifting its focus away fro coal, Bridgeport once again flourished through oil, gas and li estone production a e Bridgeport was established in , adding another large attraction for visitors to the city By the id- s, Bridgeport s population exceeded , residents and grew to over , by the s, ce enting itself as the second-largest town in ise ounty

One-hundred-fifty years after its for al creation, the ity of Bridgeport is still loo ing to an even brighter future while re e bering its rich history o celebrate its acco plish ents of the past and the any to co e, the city will host a three-day th anniversary celebration Octn , the th anniversary of Bridgeport s incorporation, the city put on a celebration that spanned over a couple of wee s oo ing bac at everything the organi ers of that event did, they ade it such a huge, special celebration said

Bridgeport o unity elations anager

rystal ith ow, years later, we want to do the sa e thing and be able to honor everything we ve done not only since then, but since

he celebration will ic off with a tailgate riday, Oct at p before the Bridgeport Bulls football tea ta es on the an lstyne anthers in a ho e ga e at p he tea will proudly represent the city s heritage with a hel et stic er donning the th anniversary logo, and the night will end with a firewor s finale

On aturday, Oct downtown Bridgeport will be a destination you don t want to iss ro a - p there will be an allday celebration on alsell treet, including Bridgeport eritage useu tours, live usic fro local perfor ers, vendors, food, a ise ounty eterans de onstration, -inch birthday ca e and historical displays of pastti e s ills and trades he day s activities will be highlighted by a free concert that all are welco e to attend

On unday, Oct the churches of

Bridgeport will co e together as one body for worship and revival at irst Baptist hurch Bridgeport fro a - p he event will also include a free brea fast hosted and served by Bridgeport ions lub

he goal is to incorporate all of Bridgeport s history, down to the coal ines, oil and gas, bric plant and roc uarry plant, said ith he city, churches, schools, cha ber, ions lub pretty uch everyone that has any connection is going to be a part of this

LeadersHistoryThrough —

ridgeport olice hief te e tanford left and ridgeport ire hief ra is o es right stand in front of the ural at the ridgeport ha ber of o erce building he ural, painted b da a enport on the est side of the building, depicts a historical photo of first responders in ridgeport

FEBRUARY

Antique Auto Swap Meet

MARCH

Wise County Youth Fair

APRIL

Glitzy Girls Trailer Park

MAY

Cruise Nights on the Square

Eighter Food Truck Challenge

Decatur Celtic Festival

JUNE

Juneteenth Gathering

Cruise Nights on the Square

JULY

Wise County Reunion

AUGUST

Taste of Wise

SEPTEMBER

Cruise Nights on the Square

Eighter Bicycle Rally

OCTOBER

Cruise Nights on the Square

National Night Out

Paint the Town Pink

Boo Bash

NOVEMBER

GUIDED PATHWAYS

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

hec out all our progra s at wc edu

Equal Opportunity/Equal access institution

Wise Health Clinics

Primary and Specialty Care

Provider Directory

Bariatric Surgery:

Arsalla Islam, MD, FASM BS

Vascular and Bariatric Surgery

2014 Ben Merritt Dr, Ste A2

Decatur • 940-202-7876

3100 N Tarrant Pkwy, Ste 100 Fort Worth • 817-562-5905

Heath Smith, MD, FACS

General and Bariatric Surgery

2014 Ben Merritt Dr, Ste A Decatur • 940-626-8820

Cardiology:

Usman Hashmi, MD, FACC

Michelle Khoo, MD, FACC, FHRS

Muzammil Mushtaq, MD, FACC

Cardiology

1713 S FM 51, Ste 202

Decatur • 940-626-0108

Cardiothoracic Surgery:

Cardiothoracic Surgery

609 Medical Center Dr, Ste 2500

Decatur • 817-380-6621

Counseling:

Terra Durdon, Life Coach

Greg Gibbons, LCSW

Ariana Hampton, LMFT

Lisa Hernandez, Social Worker

Kelly Jones, LCSW-S, CCISM

Dana Lee, LPC, LCDC

Renee Romine, LCSW-S

Center for Emotional Wellness

1602 W Bus 380, Ste 100

Decatur • 940-539-0683

Dermatology:

Novie Sroa, MD

Dermatology

2000 Ben Merritt Dr, Ste B Decatur • 940-539-8687

Family Medicine:

Mauro Ganzon, MD

Primary Care

133 N FM 730, Ste 105

Boyd • 940-433-2151

Travis Kyle, PA-C

Family & Sports Medicine

2301 S FM 51, Ste 100

Decatur • 940-626-8810

Jena McBride, FNP

Primary Care

133 N FM 730, Ste 105

Boyd • 940-433-2151

Ryan Matthiesen, DO

Family & Sports Medicine

2301 S FM 51, Ste 100

Decatur • 940-626-8810

7222 Crawford Rd, Ste 150

Argyle • 940-600-4145

Laken Meadows, MSPAS, PA-C

Family & Sports Medicine

2301 S FM 51, Ste D

Decatur • 940-626-8810

James Moore, FNP

Primary Care

133 N FM 730, Ste 105

Boyd • 940-433-2151

Lauren Morton, FNP

Primary Care

133 N FM 730, Ste 105

Boyd • 940-433-2151

Alissa Sobieraj, PA-C

Community Health Clinic

2000 S FM 51, Ste D

Decatur • 940-626-3888

Kelley Tibbels, MD

Family & Sports Medicine

2301 S FM 51, Ste 100 Decatur • 940-626-8810

Jon W. Walker, MD

Primary Care

2202 US Hwy 380, Ste 112 Bridgeport • 940-683-2338

General Surgery:

Christopher Moeder, MD, FACS

Robotic General Surgery

2000 Ben Merritt Dr, Ste B Decatur • 940-539-0707

Heath Smith, MD, FACS

General and Bariatric Surgery

2014 Ben Merritt Dr, Ste A2 Decatur • 940-626-8820

Internal Medicine:

Martin Ruiz, MD

Internal Medicine

1821 S FM 51

Decatur • 940-489-4212

OB/GYN:

Russell Edwards, DO

Obstetrics and Gynecology

2451 S FM 51, Ste 200 Decatur • 940-627-2409

2432 Avondale Haslet, Ste 200 Haslet • 817-369-5876

Eduardo Jaramillo, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology

2451 S FM 51, Ste 200 Decatur • 940-627-2409

Kelly Swofford, FNP-C

Obstetrics and Gynecology

2451 S FM 51, Ste 200 Decatur • 940-627-2409

Oncology/Medical:

Claressa Donley, FNP-C

Neelima Maddukuri, MD

Cancer Center at WHS

2010 Ben Merritt Dr, Ste A Decatur • 940-626-2300

Oncology/Radiation:

Neeraja Dasari, MD, PA Cancer Center at WHS

2010 Ben Merritt Dr, Ste B Decatur • 940-626-2300

Pediatrics:

Leslie Hollis, MD

Elizabeth Bellows, FNP Wise Pediatrics

2014 Ben Merritt Dr, Ste B Decatur • 940-626-4400

Robotic Surgery:

Christopher Moeder, MD, FACS Robotic General Surgery

2000 Ben Merritt Dr, Ste B Decatur • 940-539-0707

Pulmonology:

Pulmonology

609 Medical Center Dr, Ste 2500 Decatur • 940-627-1435

Sports Medicine:

Ryan Matthiesen, DO

Family & Sports Medicine

2301 S FM 51, Ste 100 Decatur • 940-626-8810

7222 Crawford Rd, Ste 150 Argyle • 940-600-4145

Vascular Surgery:

Arsalla Islam, MD, FASM BS

Vascular and Bariatric Surgery

2014 Ben Merritt Dr, Ste A2 Decatur • 940-202-7876

3100 N Tarrant Pkwy, Ste 100 Fort Worth • 817-562-5905

TAYLOR

Septic Pumping Service

Sylvia Taylor & Nina Tillery

Since 1989

Personal approach, depth of experience sets

PrimeWest Mortgage apart

PrimeWest Mortgage is a leader in Wise County, both in terms of making customers’ dreams a reality and by giving back to the community in a meaningful way.

In 2010, PrimeWest Mortgage expanded to Wise County, driven by the desire to retain a valuable employee. Senior Vice President and ortgage oan Officer eff ic ing made the move from Lubbock to Decatur, and the mortgage company followed suit. Despite the challenges posed by the subprime mortgage crisis of the late 2000s, their investment paid off.

A crucial part of that successful transition happened when Sicking, the 2019 Decatur Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year, hired PrimeWest ortgage oan Officer and ice President Meagan Hood.

Hood was born and raised in Wise County. She even practiced gymnastics in the building that is now her office at 203 W. Walnut St. in Decatur. After working in the Texas Tech Athletic Department, the Texas Tech graduate was recruited to bridge the gap between Lubbock and Decatur.

Earlier this year, Hood was recognized as one of the top ortgage loan officers in the county, with PrimeWest closing the highest dollar amount of loans by a Wise County lender in 2022, according to a list complied by Mobility Market Intelligence (MMI). That success has been earned through Hood and Sicking’s decades of experience in the mortgage industry.

Their knowledge has helped guide customers through rate turbulence, at times, thinking outside the box for financial solutions ro the beginning, Hood and Sicking found staying power and success through their honest approach to lending.

“The most important thing is to do right by our borrowers,” Hood said. What sets PrimeWest Mortgage apart is their dedication to building personal relationships with their clients. The home buying process is often about

finding a way to a e a personal connection with others.

“Buying a home is very scary at times” Hood added. “They’re about to make the biggest purchase of their lives. I think making that personal connection helps put customers at ease. Anytime I can make a personal connection, it makes the process easier.”

Beyond their personal approach, Sicking and Hood have more than 25 years of combined mortgage experience, and their decisions are kept to a local level, with PrimeWest ortgage officers committed to understanding every facet of each customer’s homebuying experience.

The customercentric approach is bolstered by parent co pany, , a ulti-billion-dollar financial services co pany that has been na ed a orbes Best Ban in 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2013.

Still, the company goes beyond just providing mortgages; they are invested in the local community.

By choosing PrimeWest Mortgage, you’re not only securing your homeownership dreams but also contributing to the betterment of the community. Unlike some other mortgage providers, PrimeWest believes in giving back to the local law enforce ent, fire depart ents, teachers and children. Their commitment to the community is a cornerstone of their success.

“We need to invest in those that

invest in us,” Hood said. “Wise County as a community is so special and we strive every day to help those within this community. We want to be successful so we can give back to our community.”

Employees actively serve on multiple boards and contribute to community outreach programs. Hood, having recently completed her term as the president of the Decatur Chamber of Commerce, continues to support various organizations, including the ise ealth oundation Board isit ri e est ortgage s office at Suite 101, 203 W. Walnut St. in Decatur or call Meagan Hood directly at 940627-0047 to discuss your home buying or loan needs or ore infor ation, visit www.primewestmortgage.com.

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BRIDGEPORT

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1109 Halsell St. 940.683.8100

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I SPY

Beauty of nature in the LBJ National Grassland

B u t ac

o ichael ith, a aster naturalist and author fro rlington, the yndon B ohnson B ational rasslands is li e a well-read boo that he eeps pic ing up

ith has been returning to the unta ed acreage of the rasslands for the past years, finding solitude in the sweeping landscapes of the relatively undisturbed ecosyste

o ething about the rasslands draws hi bac ach experience is new and vital to hi

t started initially with it being a great place to see reptiles and

a phibians, ith said ve seen a lot here found wal ing through the prairie or being in the woodlands was a reward in itself, spending ti e with what nature gives you o being out in nature, uiet and still, with full attention to the here and now, it has docu ented health benefits pending ti e doing that, you get where you want to go bac and do it ore ith said he s personally benefited fro his experience of getting in touch with nature on the land north of ecatur ow, he s wor ing to share it n , ith, and fellow writer and aster naturalist, ayla est, started the B rasslands ro ect an effort

to connect others and pass on their appreciation of the federally protected land

s part of the B rasslands ro ect, ith and est and so e of their peers fro the exas aster aturalist rogra venture out in s all groups of both nature experts and nature newco ers, exploring the rasslands native grasses, oa woodlands and ponds

long the way, they spot wildlife, li e haw s, leopard frogs and ar adillos here are about e bers in the B rasslands ro ect aceboo group

t s about expanding the interest

and care for the natural spaces that are in our bac yard, essentially, est said e re not ust interested in nature nerds ore so, we re hoping to connect with people that ay not have had the opportunity to experience it in the past

he nature wal s led by est and ith offer a chance for people to gain uni ue insight fro a pair of experts ith is a erpetologist so eone who speciali es in the study of reptiles and a phibians and has published several boo s on the atter est is a ertified aster aturalist and is wor ing on her h in environ ental rhetoric

e re a group of people interested in learning about the rasslands, ith said pending ti e there and learning, fro a natural history point of view, seeing the plants and ani als t s a few of us, offering to ta e people that are less fa iliar with the rasslands to learn about it

he B rasslands is , acres, and it s been anaged by the ational orest ervice since the s Before being purchased by the federal govern ent in the late s, the rasslands were ostly abandoned far s and ranches that were struggling with severe soil erosion, according to the orest ervice Before the westward expansion of the nited tates in the s, the land was a hunting site for addo ndians here s a developed recreation area at Blac ree a e, but otherwise, the area is still ostly wild

he public land, with ultiple la es, is now the site of livestoc gra ing and recreation, offering iles of hi ing trails, ca ping, fishing, hunting and horsebac riding, and occasionally natural study exploration

t s this place that s co pletely open to everybody, you can go hunting and ca ping, it see s li e there are all these different paths that rasslands can ta e, est said thin the people that go out there are deter ining its tra ectory t has this untapped potential for exploration and to really reorient

people Being outside in a place li e the rasslands repositions you as a hu an being in the great co unity of the ecosyste ll these agical things are happening without us noticing f you don t stop and notice, you ight forget about it opefully, what we can do is help people experience nature for the good and appreciate it uring nature wal s, est and ith encourage participants to ournal their experiences, both ce enting e ories and helping people really pay attention to the world around the

n une, the Messenger oined ith and est on a nature wal , learning about the history of the rasslands and the uni ue characteristics that can be found in the sweeping property n a few hours, the experts uic ly identified various species of grasses, insects, a phibians and lichen, pointing out fascinating beauty that hours before would have see ed undane

si ple field turned into a wild place that tee ed with life t brought out a heightened awareness cal focus, with eyes and ears tuned toward the natural surroundings indfulness is one of the naturally occurring ele ents of spending ti e in the rasslands t s so ething ith and est hope to share, especially with children who oin their parents on nature wal s, as they connect people to the wild world surrounding the f we appreciate so ething, we re going to care for it, est said f we raise a generation who are co pletely re oved fro the outdoors, what does that future loo li e for us have two daughters, and that s a big concern for e, too hat legacy are we leaving for the co ing generation, for how we value open space, wild space

f you would li e to oin the group and participate in nature wal s, you can contact est and ith on aceboo through the group B rasslands ro ect

FOOD TRUCK Checklist FOOD TRUCK Checklist

Wise County’s selection of food trucks offer exciting eats and classic comforts throughout the area. We’ve put together a list of local food trucks that you don’t want to miss.

Hot Coffees

Iced Coffees

Tacos

Burgers

Frappuccinos Popsicles

Simpson and Tuegel provide experience, advocacy, results clients deserve

When you need someone in your corner to fight for you in the courtroo and get the verdict or settlement you deserve, one of the best options in the state is right here in our backyard.

Simpson and Tuegel offers a broad range of services in the areas of trucking and 18-wheeler wrecks resulting in death or serious injury, catastrophic injury, and wrongful death lawsuits.

Attorney Mike Simpson has practiced law locally for close to 50 years and tried hundreds of cases in court. In that time, he’s gained national recognition for securing many large jury verdicts and settlements on behalf of his clients. In the last year alone he has secured settlements in the amount of $40.5 million, $22 million and other amounts that may not be disclosed due to confidentiality agree ents e s also secured actual jury verdicts in excess of $470 million for his clients.

Fighting for individual people who’ve faced horrible injuries or for families who’ve lost a loved one has been the center of Simpson’s practice for decades.

“I meet with people in the hardest times in their lives,” Mike Simpson said. “It is important that clients in smaller communities like ours know that they have an advocate on their side who knows the county and has a depth of experience in fighting for people in such tough situations. I am proud of the large verdicts and settlements I’ve obtained over the years for the clients we’ve represented, but even more proud that families and individuals in Wise County and beyond entrust us to do such heavy personal work on their behalf. It has been an honor of my lifetime to get to stand with people who ve needed us to fight for the His work has consistently been recognized for excellence over the years. Mike is rated AV Preeminent, the highest possible, by the attorney peer review organization MartindaleHubbell. He is also a fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation and was named

one of the top 100 trial lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers from 2011 to 2020. Mike has been named to the Super Lawyers lists annually since 2003.

Mike’s three daughters — Michelle, Mackenzie and Maryssa — have also all followed their dad into different areas of the law.

Michelle Simpson Tuegel is the founding partner of The Simpson Tuegel Law Firm based in Dallas and has represented sexual abuse and assault survivors in high-profile cases such as the Larry Nassar litigation, where she helped obtain a $500 million settlement against MSU as part of a group of attorneys representing survivors against The U.S. Olympic Committee, Michigan State University, and USA Gymnastics. In 2021, Michelle obtained a record $44.6 million dollar verdict against Hilton Hotels for facilitating the sexual assault of a hotel guest.

Sister, Maryssa Simpson, recently joined Michelle as a partner. Maryssa has been named among Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America, Top 40 Under 40 Civil Plaintiffs by the National Trial Lawyers and A Texas Rising Star by Texas SuperLawyers.

Mackenzie (Simpson) Wallace is a partner at Thompson Coburn LLP in allas, exas er fir represents health care entities and other businesses and directors in high-stakes litigation matters.

“It is a dream come true to see all three of my daughters practicing law. My daughters are hard workers, but their heart for helping others through their legal work and their communities makes me a very proud dad,” said Mike Simpson. “As Wise County continues to grow, we will continue to find ways to all work together on cases, and I know my girls and my son-in-law and partner Andrew Tuegel will carry on the torch here in Wise County and beyond in helping injured people and families who’ve lost loved ones connected to the Wise County community. I plan to continue to do this work with them for

years to come.”

In 2019, Mike welcomed his son-inlaw, ndrew uegel, to the fir uegel graduated from Baylor School of Law in 2010, where he met his wife, Michelle.

Andrew has been named to Texas Rising Stars, which honors the top 2.5 percent of attorneys in the state, every year from 2015 to 2020. He’s also been recognized as a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 under 40 in 2019 and 2020, and he was named a Best Lawyer in America for 2020.

He has successfully tried cases in Texas, Maine, Nevada, North Carolina and Utah, His practice includes representing clients in various mass tort, product liability, personal injury and business litigation cases.

“Working with a family of trial lawyers in the county where my wife grew up and to be law partners with my fatherin-law Mike has been an incredible experience t was a natural fit to oin Mike as a partner with my background as a trial lawyer representing people in smaller communities for years in Waco/ Central Texas,” said Andrew Tuegel.

In 2021, Mike and Andrew were preparing to pick a jury in Fort Bend County (near Houston) when the opposing attorney approached them with a $40.5 million offer moments before a jury could be selected. The settlement was the largest personal injury settlement in Texas that year and the third largest in the country, according to “Top Verdict.”

The case involved a vehicle collision which killed Isaac Keas, who sustained serious burns and died within 24 hours after the wreck. The Keas fa ily contacted the i pson fir for representation. The death of Isaac left behind his wife, two small children, his mother, father, and sister. The Keas family were great clients who sought to pursue justice for their family.

ou can find their office at rinity, second floor uite , in downtown Decatur. Call 940-6834098 or visitssttrial.comfor more information.

Room & Board Checklist Room & Board Checklist

Wise County’s selection of places to stay offer fantastic locations and modern comforts throughout the area. We’ve put together a list of local spots for planning your upcoming trip.

Exciting Amenities

Beautiful Views

Unique Comforts

Great Locations

Earthworm

Dry

Orange

Organic

Diatomaceous

Beneficial

Lava

Mushroom

Cotton

Candy Land

Visit Downtown Decatur for a sweet adventure

oo ing for so ething s eet The Decatur uare is the lace to go to satisfy any s eet tooth cra ing ey ugar Can y tore elco es its custo ers ith bright colors, glo ing signs an an en less array of s eets

riginally starte by year ol Clayton rittan in an Airstrea trailer, the store no has eight locations across Texas an laho a The sho foun a ho e on the Decatur uare in Manager Ta y Pic ens sai the o ortunity fell into her la as she as loo ing to or close to ho e an e brace the s all to n feel t s a ha y lace, an nee e so ething retty ha y, Pic ens sai li e the s all to n, really o Peo le are s eet

The store sells not only can y

an chocolates, hich are a ailable in bul , but their o n ho e a e ice crea an ac y so a fla ors Mustar , s eet corn, an buffalo ing sauce are ust a fe of the na es seen on the shel es full of intage so as

t s a lace for fa ily an frien s to in of gather, Pic ens sai They congregate in ifferent laces in the store eighbors co e here for ice crea or gran arents bring their gran chil ren Me ories are a e

ey ugar also offers gift bas ets an s ecials for holi ays, an ri es itself in its selection of treats that s ar on er an nostalgia t s ery cool to atch the ifferent generations they all co e together here, Pic ens sai ou re all in of on an e en eel

lo e eo le re e bering can ies fro hen they ere a i an seeing that e ha e it eeing the s ile on their face is really great ust a short al a ay fro ey ugar is ar er iley s ere, custo ers can create their o n chocolates using elte hite, il or ar chocolate The chocolate factory is locate ust off of the s uare insi e The intage, a gift sho that sells ite s such as t shirts, hats, ugs, osters an other gift ite s

The store is o ne by husban an ife Matt an A ber ir , ho sai they ha the i ea to bring this ex erience to Decatur after ha ing ate nights at a chocolate factory in rlan o here they are originally fro

t ust see e li e a neat thing to

bring to the co unity, Matt ir sai t s a uni ue i ea that you on t really see any here, e en in touristy areas

The cou le ro e through the s uare to loo at so e s aces a ailable for lease an i e iately fell in lo e ith the location They o ene their oors to the co unity in August

This s ace ust in of s o e to us an ha so uch otential, Matt sai We ante to honor the history of the buil ing itself e i n t ant to refurbish it in a o ern in of aesthetic o e ha e the sa e loo of the buil ing fro the outsi e that it has going bac a hun re years or so

The chocolate factory s na e co es fro the ir s t o sons Their i le na es are ar er an iley, an their ersonalities air ell ith the a roaches to a ing chocolate treats

ur youngest, the ar er in ar er iley s, he s ery a enturous, in of cra y e ll ix anything an e erything into a chocolate cu , Matt ir sai Whereas iley is the ore conser ati e one o his stuff oul be ore stan ar an ore tra itional t ust in of illustrates ho you can a roach your chocolates, hether you ant to go cra y ith it or hether you ant to ee it in of tra itional

oo ite s to co er in chocolate of course inclu e T in ies, rice ris ies, rie fruit, arsh allo s, nuts, reos an any ore The store uses uality hirar elli Merc ens chocolate for i ing, coating an ol s

While custo ers are elco e to boo D chocolate sessions for a night out, anni ersary, birth ay arty or ate night, custo s ashable chocolates are another s ecialty at the chocolate factory The large s ashable chocolates are create by han , an are to be s ashe o en ith a ini oo en ha er inclu e in the urchase ashable chocolates an reser ations can be a e online at har eran rileys co

Livin’ the Dream

When Jesse & Tiffany Woskowicz founded AmeriDream Mortgage Group, LLC in 2006, the landscape of Wise County looked different, growing from a small, rural county into an area surging with an influx of growth in a span of two decades

Originally opening their doors in Denton, Jesse and Tiffany Woskowicz have now expanded their business to four locations, including two in Wise County — 207 West Main Street in Decatur and 1005 Stevens Street in Bridgeport.

“My wife, Tiffany, is originally from Chico, and we moved back in 2017,” Woskowicz said. “With a brick-andmortar presence, we’re able to offer our clients a more personalized experience, and to engage with them as if they are friends and family. Despite a lot of the mortgage process consisting of business being conducted via email and uploads, we have a significant nu ber of custo ers that prefer to co e into the office e enjoy the client engagement and helping the in the office

Seeing a rapid increase in growth coming to Wise from the Metroplex, Jesse Woskowicz, who currently serves as the company’s President, opened the Bridgeport branch in 2022.

“The growth we’ve experienced has really been organic,” he said. “It wasn’t something that we were necessarily looking to do and so we’ve been very blessed. AmeriDream has grown to loan levels and a client base that I could have never have dreamed of. We focus on writing one loan at a time, making sure each ho e loan is the best fit for the individual custo er s a company, we are committed to making sure we provide a client experience that is unmatched from a customer service aspect.”

Whether customers are looking to purchase a home or refinance, eri rea ortgage roup adds a personal touch in helping its clientele with its “excellence in service” motto.

“As the mortgage business has evolved, it’s become more and more technology driven,” Woskowicz said. “In Wise County, we have a retail focused presence. We have a client-focused approach when tailoring loans. Each loan scenario is different. We try to do a good job of helping folks understand what they’re getting into, and to help make sense of something that doesn’t make sense to a lot of buyers / homeowners. The mortgage process in general is overwhelming and it is a lot to navigate. We help simplify the process and get homeowners through the process one step at a time.”

AmeriDream Mortgage Group works for its clients by offering a range of loan options, including Jumbo loans, conventional loans, government, and non-conforming loans (outside the box loans).

With knowledgeable, experienced experts on staff, eri rea ortgage roup s clients can feel confident in searching for the home of their dreams.

Obtaining a ortgage is ost li ely the largest financial transaction that a lot of us will ever take part in, and there’s a lot of work that has to get done in a short amount of time,” Woskowicz said. “Our biggest asset when helping homeowners is our people. We have incredible employees here at AmeriDream who go above and beyond to put the clients’ needs before their own. We are blessed to have an experienced staff, many of which have been with us for over 10 years. I believe their passion and care helps us separate our company from others — every one of them cares as much as I do about providing our clients with an enjoyable home loan experience. We’re forever grateful and thankful to every client and every business partner that allows us the opportunity to assist with their home loan experience.”

Woskowicz is optimistic about the current state of Wise County’s housing market.

“Wise County is an amazing county. Our leadership continues to make this one of the best counties in Texas to live in. It has a lot of good things to offer that buyers look for,” he said. “We’ve got people moving here from the Metroplex who want to get out of the city and the traffic congestion that co es with bigger city life and move to our more rural and country lifestyle. Decatur is growing and it’s in a great location situated right of U.S. 287, and Bridgeport is doing wonderful things for its residents and also has the desirable lake community lifestyle. It’s a great time to buy — even though interest rates are higher than they were, housing prices have leveled off. The demand for Wise County is high, and I don’t see it slowing down.”

AmeriDream Mortgage Group also plays a visible role in community engagement. The company has sponsored events such as Taste of Bridgeport and the Collins Skills Basketball Camp in Paradise, and will be taking part in a backpack drive for local students in July.

“We are proud to be involved and help sponsor events that are unique to our communities. We will continue to support Wise County in whatever way we can going forward,” Woskowicz said. “We’re passionate about being involved with the community and providing opportunities for our kids.”

As a full service, experienced mortgage company, AmeriDream Mortgage Group serves all of Texas, Oklahoma and Colorado, including Frisco, Denton, The Colony, Decatur, Haslet, Bridgeport, Runaway Bay, Bowie, Dallas, Fort Worth and all surrounding areas.

In addition to its Wise County locations, AmeriDream Mortgage Group also has branches located in The Colony (3700 Standridge Drive, Suite 101) and Midlothian (136 North 8th Street, Suite 200).

For more information, visit ameridreammtg.com or call 940627-2034 or 940-644-0024

Government

Caleb Ca iness is Al or s ayor

The city council also inclu es rian at enbihler, hane aney, Da n White, or an urgan an De ayne her oo , ho is ayor ro te

The city council eets the thir Thurs ay at City all, at W l t

City a inistrator is Troy regg City secretary is Delise White, an nance irector is Martha i ens Public or s irector is erry An erson

~ 940-427-5916 alvordtx.gov ~

Services

The i e unt S eri ce ro i es olice rotection for the city

~ 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies ~

The city is ser e by the r unteer ire Department Coley rye is re chief

~ 940-427-3361, or 911 for emergencies alvordfire@ cityofalvord.org ~

The r u ic i rar at W ran lin t , is o en We nes ay through atur ay

~ 940-427-2842 alvord.ploud.net ~ ar an ecreati n Al or s ree ar , usiness , inclu es a tennis court, a ilion, baseball el s an u gra e laygroun s, inclu ing one co ere in a sha e cano y

The r rea eteran Me ria ar is also at l Cree Par

The a i ace a , County oa near Al or , is

Alvord

e ui e for irt bi es an other AT s A sche ule of ti es an ays the trac is o en is oste on the facility s aceboo age

~ 817-726-0653 oakhillmx.com ~

ca int ntere t ru ree ine ar an iner , County oa , is o en noon to aily

~ 940-427-4747 brushycreekvineyards.com ~

Mar er e ar a i iner , County oa , is o en noon to Thurs ay through atur ay, noon to un ay A oint ents an e ents a ailable outsi e of nor al hours by reser ation only

~ 817-368-9986 markercellars. com ~

nnua ent

~ Easter Eggstravaganza Alvord Watermelon Festival Alvord ometown Christmas Market Alvord FD Fish Fry ~

ucati n

The Class A r n e en ent Sc Di trict has four ca uses ele entary, inter e iate, i le school an high school

chool boar e bers are i ooney, ance Th eatt, ussell ice, Daniel u ic , Mar ose, Tra is Taylor an Aaron Moore u erinten ent is Dr an y ro n

ini trati n ce

~ 185 S. Mosley ane 940-427-5975 ~

r i Sc

~ 1049 W. Bypass .S. 81/287 940-427-9643 ~

r Mi e Sc

~ 300 Bulldog Way

940-427-5511 ~

r nter e iate Sc

~ 1238 E. Bypass 287 940-427-9638 ~

r e entar Sc

~ 711 W. Stadium Drive 940-4272881 alvordisd.net ~

Government

ryan Dolan ser es as ayor The city council inclu es ill McCur y, A y ynn Crites eynol s, ristin Cline, Deb Terrell, ill Coo e an on Pellegrini

City council eetings are the secon an fourth Mon ays, hel at the te orary location of oy Co unity Center, Morton A e

nteri city secretary is ynnell Day

~ 817-636-2783 auroratexas.gov ~

te ire e tr e cit a in une e cit a e ecte t en t i u er

Aurora

Ser ice

The city is rotecte by the i e unt S eri ce

~ 940-627-5971 ~ e ar an e unteer re e art ent res on to calls

~ For emergencies, call 911 ~ Water is available along the Texas 114 corridor through the City of Aurora. Aurora ista is serviced through Southwest Water. The southwest quadrant, including Glider Base, is serviced by Palo Duro.~

ucati n

Most of Aurora s stu ents are in the a rt e t n e en ent Sc Di trict an so e atten SD

~ 817-215-0000 nisdtx.org ~

Government

Rodney Holmes serves as mayor, and Mark Culpepper is mayor pro tem. Council members include Jimmy Young, Randy Adams, Jeff Leavell and Jeff Clark.

The council meets 6:30 p.m. the rst an thir Thurs ays at oy Community Center, 420 E. Morton Ave.

City hall is at 731 E. Rock Island Ave.

William Taylor is city administrator, and assistant city administrator/city secretary is Daniel ourgeois

~ 940-433-5166 cityofboyd.com ~

Services

The Boyd Police Department e loys full ti e of cers ason Schmidt serves as police chief.

~ 940-433-8400 ~

The Wise County ESD No. 1/Boyd Fire Department provides protection

Boyd

to the city and surrounding areas. ason Para ise ser es as re chief

~ 940-433-2085, or call 911 for emergencies ~ Parks and Recreation oy has three city ar s

Yellowjacket Park, at the corner of West Dunlap and North Evans, includes a basketball court.

James Snodgrass Park, 501 W. Hobbs Ave., includes a playground, volleyball court, walking trail and a pavilion.

The R.T. Brooks Youth Sport Complex, 601 W. Hobbs Ave., inclu es a baseball el , softball el , T ball el , al ing trail an picnic tables.

The 4,280-square-foot Boyd Community Center, 420 E. Morton Ave., includes a full-service kitchen, banquet tables and chairs, a stage

and space to accommodate up to 300 people.

~ 940-433-5166 ~

The Boyd Senior Citizens Group meets at 420 E. Morton Ave. 9 a.m.12 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

~ 940-433-5166 ~

The Boyd Raceway, 376 Raceway Lane, south of the city, hosts races every Friday night mid-March through August. The quarter-mile, semi-banked dirt track hosts races ith stoc cars, o i e cars, s ort o i e cars, hobby stoc cars an mini stock cars.

~ 817-901-5525 boydraceway.com ~

River Valley Motocross, 733 County oa near oy , offers an outdoor dirt track and a kids/ beginner track.

~ 817-932-3333

facebook.com/rivervalleymx ~

ca int ntere t

The i ni a Sanctuar e a , Texas bet een oy an Aurora, ro i es a er anent ho e for ani als such as tigers, bobcats, cougars, lions an bears The sanctuary is no longer o en to the general ublic, but acti e nancial su orters of the organi ation are elco e to isit on s ecial ays or ee en s by a oint ent

~ 254) 826-6500

wildanimalsanctuarytexas.org ~

ine ar an iner , Pri ate oa , is o en Thurs ay through atur ay

~ 940-535-5622 tfvineyard.com ~

nnua ent

~ Easter Egg unt Boyd America

Bash alloween Trunk or Treat Parade of ights ~

ucati n

The Class A n e en ent Sc Di trict has four ca uses ele entary, inter e iate, i le an high school

u erinten ent is eslie ann chool boar e bers are yle r in, enneth he her , rista arber, ill Chil ress, Aaron a bert, ere y a bert an Trae uttrell ini

Bridgeport

Government

Randy Singleton is Bridgeport’s mayor.

City council members include Austin Ince, Brett Wade, Susan Coffman, Sylvia Ramirez and Matthew VanHoose. Council meetings are held 6 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays at city hall, 900 Thompson St.

Jean Dwinnell is city secretary.

~ 940-683-3400 cityofbridgeport.net ~

The Bridgeport Police Department inclu es of cers inclu ing t o school resource of cers, the chief, t o lieutenants, four sergeants, one corporal an one etecti e , e is atchers, one ani al control of cer, one co e enforce ent of cer an t o ci ilian support staff. Steve Stanford is police chief.

~ 940-683-3430 or call 911 for emergencies ~

ire rotection an rst res on er services are provided by the Bridgeport Fire Department Tra is o es is re chief.

~ 940-683-3445, or call 911 for emergencies ~

The Bridgeport Municipal Airport, 299 L.V. Selz Rd., provides alternative transportation to the general aviation

public. Paul Walsh is the city contact.

~ 940-683-3430 ~

Bridgeport Public Library, 2159 10th St., has 36,000 books, magazines, audiobooks, newspapers, DVDs, and videos available for use by the public. Computers with internet access are available to the public. Marisol Cano is library services director.

~ 940-683-3450 ~

Parks and Recreation

The Bridgeport City Pool, 1106 8th St., offers a place to cool off during the summer. It has been recently updated with new amenities. Hours for summer 2023 are 1 to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

~ 940-683-3480 ~

The city operates four public parks. Harwood Park, 707 Hovey St. near downtown, includes playgrounds, picnic tables, pavilion, a walking trail, lights, barbecue grills, open play area, horseshoe pits, a six-hole disc golf course and restrooms. The pavilion may be reserved for events.

~ 940-683-3480 ~

Payne Park, 409 W. Cates St., features a covered skate park, picnic tables, playground equipment, open play area and restrooms.

Lawdwin Ball Fields, 1102 Lawdwin Ave., consists of 13 acres including two baseball el s, one softball el , a s all ulti ur ose el , an a ulti ur ose el use for s ring soccer an fall football.

Endeavor Bridgeport Adventure Park, the home of the Northwest OHV Park is north of town off of Texas 101 at 279 George Mitchell Pkwy. It includes an ATV park and hiking and biking trail system. Hiking and biking trails are open seven days a week. The Northwest OHV Park is open Saturdays and Sundays 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the summer and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the winter.

~ 940-683-3480 cityofbridgeport.net/ northwestpark ~

The city has two facilities that host various community events and can be rented by the public for events of up to 200 people: the Bridgeport Community Center 1102 Lawdwin Ave., and the Arcadia Theater, 1009 Halsell. ~ 940-683-3480 ~

The Bridgeport Country Club, 250 Farm Road 2123, features a spacious 5,983yard, nine-hole golf course with Bermuda greens. It is open seven days a week.

~ 940-683-9438 facebook.com/ BridgeportCountryClub/ ~

Bridgeport

Visiting

The ri e rt i it r enter, alsell t , ro i es infor ation on local attractions an history t also ser es as the ho e of the ri ge ort Cha ber of Co erce an the ri ge ort eritage Museu The center also sho cases the re lica Abbot Do ning Concor Coach, hich re resents the city s history an its title as tagecoach Ca ital of Texas

~ 940-683-2076 ~

ri ge ort is a Texas an ational Main treet City, an the rogra s onsors s ecial e ents throughout the year that ro ote econo ic e elo ent an chronicle the co unity s colorful history ~ 940-683-3404 ~

The ri e rt a er erce otto is to ser e the econo ic gro th of their e bers hile a ocating for business a ance ent, econo ic gro th an ob creation for the bene t of ri ge ort The cha ber is staffe by xecuti e Director athan yers an Accounting Manager anessa Arnol Me bershi luncheons are hel a e ery thir Thurs ay at Weatherfor College Wise County ~ 940-683-2076 ~

ca int ntere t

The ission of the enter r ni a

e earc an ucati n ro i es for the rescue, rehabilitation an holistic nurturing of sic , in ure an abuse big cats CA is ho e to sno leo ar s, cougars, leo ar s, lions, tigers, a bobcat, ring tail le urs an lla as CA , County oa , is also e icate to efforts to learn fro the ani als natural beha iors, instincts an habitats an to learn an ractice techni ues to enhance the uality of life for big cats in ca ti ity ~ 940-683-8115 carerescuetexas.com ~

nnua ent

~ Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce

Banquet Southern Rock Bouncing alentine’s Day Date Night on alsell

Daddy-Daughter Dance St. Patrick’s Day on alsell Easter Eggstravaganza

Cinco De Mayo Celebration

Butterfield Stage Days Mother/ Daughter Tea Party Christmas in July Jeep Festival Middle School Pool Party Taste of Bridgeport eritage on alsell Spooktacular Fall Festival

Suit p and Say Boo Santa and the Stagecoach ights on alsell Christmas Parade olidays on alsell Breakfast with Santa ~

Sea na r recurrin e ent

~ Girls Night Out ollywood on alsell ~

ucati n

The Class A ri e rt n e en ent Sc Di trict has a high school, i le school, inter e iate school, ele entary school an alternati e learning ca us

Dr A y llis is su erinten ent chool boar e bers inclu e i ost, Charles Maul in, Duane utherlan , ailynn u son, cott iler, Terry ye an ichar i al

ini trati n ce

~ 2107 15th St. 940-683-5124 ~

ri e rt i Sc

~ 1 Maroon Drive 940-683-4064 ~

ri e rt Mi e Sc

~ 702 17th St. 940-683-2273 ~

ri e rt nter e iate

~ 1400 .S. 380 940-683-5784 ~

ri e rt e entar

~ 1408 Elementary Drive 940-683-5955 ~

ri e rt ternati e earnin enter

~ 1101 17th St. 940-683-1830

bridgeportisd.net ~

Chico

Government

Colleen Self serves as mayor.

The city council includes Jimmy B. Counts, Jack Souther, Jamie Gunstanson, Hannah Avants and Ronnie McGuire.

The council meets 6:30 p.m. the rst Tues ay an , if necessary, thir Tuesday) at city hall, 400 S. Hovey.

Rhonda Richey is city secretary.

~ 940-644-2435 ~

Services

The city has a small police department and is also served by the i e unt S eri ce

~ 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies ~

The Chico Volunteer Fire Department provides service to the city and surrounding areas. Joshua ichey ser es as re chief

~ 940-644-5302 ~

The Chico Public Library, 106 W. Jacksboro St. on the historic town square, offers programs and activities for people of all ages yearround. It is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

~ Contact: Michelle Slonaker 940-644-2330 chico.ploud.net ~

The Chico Chamber of Commerce meets the second Tuesday at the Chico Senior Center with an executive/business meeting at 10:30 a.m. followed by the regular meeting at noon with lunch and a speaker. It also sponsors the

annual Chico Fest and provides scholarships to graduating Chico High School seniors.

~ Chico Texas Chamber of Commerce on Facebook, wisecountychamber.com/chico/ ~

Parks and Recreation

M. Robinson Park, at the corner of West Sherman and Buffalo streets, includes a play area for kids, two gazebos, skate park and a basketball court.

Jewel Park, on Farm Road 1810, features baseball el s

Tucker Park, behind city hall at 400 S. Hovey, features a playground.

Wise County Park, at 372 County Road 1638 on the north end of Lake Bridgeport and west of Farm Road 2952, offers three, two-lane boat ramps with ample parking, restrooms, handicap access, picnic areas, hoo u s, shing, tent camping, playground and walking/ nature trail.

~ 940-644-1910 co.wise.tx.us (under the “Public Works” heading) ~

The Chico Senior Center is at 201 S. Buffalo St.

~ 940-644-2218 ~

The Chico Veterans Memorial, which honors those who have served our country, is taken care of by local 4-H students and is located on the town square.

Local points of interest

O.G. Cellars, 704 County Road 1895, is a boutique winery in the

rolling hills of Northwest Wise County. It is open Thursday through Sunday.

~ 940-867-7669 ogcellars.com ~

Annual Events

~ Easter Egg Hunt ~

~ Chamber of Commerce Banquet ~

~ Classic Car Show ~

~ Chico Spring Fest ~

~ Pack Your Backpack Event ~

~ Chico Fest ~

~ Trunk or Treat ~

~ Reverse Christmas Parade ~

~ Pancakes with Santa ~

Education

The Class 2A Chico Independent School District has three campuses — an elementary, junior high and high school.

School board members are Tim Raley, Steven Cox, G.A. Buckner, Jada Grooms, Kyle Grimes, Ubaldo Garcia and Chris Laney. Randy Brawner is superintendent.

ini trati n ce

~ 503 W. Sherman St. 940-6442228 ~

Chico High School

~ 263 Farm Road 2952

940-644-5783 ~

Chico Middle School

~ 1205 W. Sherman St. 940-6445550 ~

Chico Elementary School

~ 1120 Park Road 940-644-2220

chicoisdtx.net ~

In Office:

• ABI

• ECHO

• Chemicals & Exercise Stress Test

• Cardiac Clearance for all Medical and Dental

• Cholesterol Management

• High Blood Pressure Treatment

• Heart Rate Management

• Aneurysm & Aortic Problem Treatment

• Non-Healing Wounds and Ulcers

• Heart Failure Treatment

• Stroke Prevention

• Advanced Lifesaving Heart Intervention

• Treating Heart Disease

In Hospital:

• Stents for Heart and Leg Blockages

• Structural Heart Disease

• Varicose Vein Ablation

• Heart Catheter

Zabher, MD, MPH, FACC, FSCAI

Dr. Henock greets everyone with a smile. Doctor wears his heart on his sleeve. He loves helping the community. Our goal is to make all our patients feel like family.

Dr. Henock literally saved my life with a procedure he performed when I developed a massive saddle pulmonary embolism in July, 2021. He is a skilled diagnostician and interventional cardiologist. My wife and I have continued to see him in his Decatur office since that event. He is kind, caring, and very thorough. The ladies who work in the office, Ange and Adriana, are always helpful, friendly, and professional. We wouldn’t see anyone else!

My Husband and I have seen 2 other Cardiologist in Wise County. To be honest we were not crazy about transferring to another Doctor. From the moment we walked in the door, we were greeted with a smile, and the warmest welcome. Ange and Adriana are the best . Dr. Henock is a doctor that talks to us, listens to us. And his laugh is infectious . If you are looking for a doctor and a staff that will answer a call, they are your people . We will no longer be looking for another Office to go to . Marcy

Our Skills Tailored

G. KEITH GILL, M.D.

Board Certified Orthopedic Surgery

Fellowship Trained Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery

GET TO KNOW DR. GILL

• Loves sports, especially golf

• Follows the Mavs, Rangers, Cowboys and Texas Tech

• Is a night owl

• Lives in Haslet

• Wife is a pediatric physician

• Father of two beautiful girls

• Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine

• Shoulder and Knee Arthroscopy

TROY CHANDLER, P.A.-C

• Shoulder and Knee Replacement

• Partial and Total Hip Replacement

• Pediatric and Adult Fracture Care

Board Certified Physician Assistant with 18 Years Experience in Orthopedics

GET TO KNOW TROY

• Loves all types of music

• Enjoys hunting, fishing and lifting weights

• Happily married father of three

• Follows the Dallas Cowboys and Mavericks

• Native North Texan

We proudly serve clients across Wise, Parker, Montague, Tarrant and Denton Counties - including the cities of Decatur, Bridgeport, Springtown, Boyd, Bowie, Paradise, Alvord, Jacksboro, Argyle, Haslet, Justin, Trophy Club and Saginaw.

Government

Mike McQuiston serves as mayor, and Melinda Reeves is the mayor pro tem. Council members are Eddie Allen, Darlene Hilton, Jake Hayes, Debra Jackson and Will Carpenter. The council meets at 6 p.m. the second and fourth Monday at Decatur City Hall, 201 E. Walnut St.

Nate Mara is city manager. City secretary is Asucena Garcia.

~ 940-393-0200 decaturtx.org ~

Services

The Decatur Police Department provides 24-hour protection for the city. Police Chief is Delvon Campbell.

~ 940-393-0300 ~

The Decatur Fire Department is the only full ti e re e art ent in the county. Fire Chief is Deroy Bennett.

~ 940-393-0230 ~

The Decatur Municipal Airport has been in existence since 1914, making it the oldest airport in the state. One mile north of town on Farm Road 730, it

Decatur

features a 4,200-foot by 60-foot runway with a 17,000-pound dual wheel weightbearing capacity.

~ 940-627-2855 ~

Decatur, Wise County and the surrounding area is served by Wise Health System, 609 Medical Center Dr.

~ 940-627-5921 wisehealthsystem. com ~

The Decatur Public Library, 1700 S. Farm Road 51, offers a mix of education, literature, technology and collaborative experiences for all ages. It is open Monday through Saturday.

~ 940-393-0290 decaturpubliclibrary. com ~

Visiting

The Decatur Visitor Center, 106 S. Trinity, is a great place to begin your visit to town. Located in a historic, refurbishe ost of ce, the buil ing houses the Decatur Main Street of ce of Manager Frieda Lasater. Tours of the historic courthouse can also be provided by Lasater by appointment.

isitors can n infor ation about Decatur and Wise County, including maps and other resources for the area.

~ 940-399-9558 decaturmainstreet.com ~

The Decatur Chamber of Commerce of ce is at Trinity Misty erry serves as executive director. Jordan Holzbog is president.

The Chamber holds membership lunches at 11:30 every fourth Tuesday except June, July and December at the Decatur Conference Center.

~ 940-627-3107 decaturtx.com ~

The Decatur Conference Center, 2010 U.S. 380 W., is a 27,000 square-foot multi-use facility that hosts a variety of events large or small. The center offers both on-site and off-site catering. The newest addition is the 107-room air el nn an uites by Marriott located at the DCC site, allowing the center to host multi-day events and conventions.

~ 940-393-0280

decaturconferencecenter.com ~

ar an ecreati n Decatur has six ar s that ro i e a lace to lay, relax or re ect

enn en a ar , off M outh, features an out oor gy , t o softball el s, t o soccer el s, a a ilion, a laygroun an a concrete al ing trail ar n ar , at the corner of ast Mill an outh Church streets, features t o youth baseball el s, a ne laygroun an a s ate ar

i an Sue ne ar , at the en of Country Club oa , is the largest of the city s ar s an inclu es t o bas etball courts, a baseball el , softball el , laygroun , soccer football el an an bas et isc golf course

ui a i Ma a i i ar , at the corner of orth Arthur an ro n streets, features a laygroun , san box, s ing set an icnic tables

Me a D e ar , at the en of Melba Doyle Par oa off Chico oa , features a six bas et isc golf course, s ings, icnic tables an sha e trees

The i e unt eteran

Me ria ar , at the corner of Ash an Trinity streets, is line ith bric a ers that hol the na es of , eterans t also features a a ilion an the Path of acrifice an alor co e orating A erican conflicts The ar hosts nu erous eterans e ents each year

The Decatur u features a nine hole course that is ostly o en ith trees lining the outsi e of a fe fair ays

The club at Country Club Dr , is o en six ays a ee close Mon ays

~ 940-627-3789 decaturgolfclub.com~

The S cti it enter, Miller t , hosts free lunches for anyone or ol er Mon ay through ri ay The center is o erate by the Wise County

Decatur

Co ittee on Aging Acti ities

The center also offers outreach to anish s ea ing seniors through its Abuelitos ni os el Con a o e Wise ran arents nite of Wise County rogra Acti ities at the center inclu e bingo, , uilting e ents, arts an crafts an a boo club They also host exercise e ents, feature guest s ea ers an occasional li e usic

~ 940-539-0188

MealsOnWheelsWiseCounty.org ~

nnua ent

~ Decatur Swap Meet DaddyDaughter Dance Easter Brunch

a f Decatur D era e

Glitzy Girls Trailer Park Event Eighter

Food Truck Challenge Mother’s Day Brunch Juneteenth Celebration

Summer Concert Put o Money

Where o Mouth Is Washer Tournament

Eighter from Decatur Bicycle Rally

National Night Out Paint the Town

Pink Chamber of Commerce Auction

Boo Bash oliday Open ouse

Decatur Swirl A Touch of Rust

intage Craft Show Thanksgiving Day Brunch Turkey Trot ucky

Seven Courthouse Christmas Tree

ighting Moonlight Madness

Decatur Woman’s Club Tour of omes

Breakfast with Santa Santa on the Streets ~

Sea na r ecurrin ent

~ Cruise Nights Saturdays on the Square Girls Night Out ~

ucati n

The a Decatur n e en ent Sc Di trict has four ele entaries, a i le school an a high school u erinten ent is Dr Cha ones chool boar e bers are Dylan arnes, cott oehler, tan hults, an ra chnei er, ere y Duncan, Melonie Christian an onathan oss

Carson Elementary

Rann Elementary

Young Elementary

ini trati n ce

~ 307 S. Cates St. 940-393-7100 ~

Decatur i Sc

~750 East Eagle Summit Dr. 940-3937200 ~

Mc arr Mi e Sc

~ 1201 West Thompson St. 940-3937300 ~

S M at ni e entar

~ 1200 Eagle Dr. 940-393-7475 ~

ar n e entar Sc

~ 2100 Bus. 81/287 South 940-3937500 ~

ann e entar Sc

~ 1300 Deer Park Rd. 940-393-7600 ~

un e entar Sc

~ 379 Buchanan Road 940-393-7400 decaturisd.us ~

ict r ri tian ca e

~ 600 W. Mulberry St. 940-626-4730

victorychristianacademy.org not included in Decatur ISD ~

BUILDING LEGACIES.

Based on Heritage.

Decatur, Texas is a fast-growing DFW community built on integrity and a vision for the future. The business community has a rich history of pioneers in industries from ranching to manufacturing.

Today Decatur is home to legacy businesses as well as new and diversified industries choosing to relocate into our community. Existing and new employers are creating quality jobs in our community for current and future generations of our workforce. As the County Seat of Wise County, Decatur boasts nonstop access to the global marketplace, located 25 miles from Interstate 35 and Alliance Airport, and 45 minutes from DFW International Airport at the intersection of Highways 287 and 380.

A ordable real estate, a skilled workforce and a business friendly environment all make Decatur the premier choice for business operations. A large Opportunity Zone plus the 162-acre fully developed Eagles Landing Business Park will help your business grow into the future in Decatur.

Lake Bridgeport

Government

Nick Bilby serves as mayor. City council members include Andy Smith, Sherry Pewitt, Pete Casalegno and Chris Loe.

Wanda Vick is city secretary.

City council meetings are held at 7 p the first uesday at city hall, located at 301 S. Main St.

~ cityoflakebridgeport.com 940626-9783

citylkbport@gmail.com ~

Services

Water service is provided by the West Wise Special Utilities District

The Lake Bridgeport Volunteer Fire Department serves the city and surrounding area. Willie Garrett is fire chief

The i e unt S eri ce responds to calls in the city.

~ Phone: 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies ~

Education

Lake Bridgeport is part of the Class 4A Bridgeport Independent School District.

~ 940-683-5124

bridgeportisd.net ~

WSince 1979, United Way of Wise County Inc., officed in Decatur, Texas, has worked diligently to support local charities providing essential health and human services to Wise County residents. As a registered Texas non-profit corporation, United Way of Wise County conducts annual fund-raising campaigns and invests the proceeds to these local charities on the basis of their need, specific services provided, number of families served and other considerations.

e innin in each lla nate t the ann al all ca ai n has een in este in these nite Wa a encies an a s is a es the nite Wa Wise C nt ne the st e cient n n t ani ati ns in the c

New Fairview

ern ent

ohn aylor is ayor he city council includes arvey Burger, teven ing, ichard reene, arah da s and eter o lows i

ouncil eetings are held p every first and third onday at ity all, llinois ane

ity ad inistrator is ohn abrales r ity operations ad inistrator is oshua Barnwell, and city secretary is Broo e Boller

~ 817-638-5366 newfairview.org ~

Ser ice

he city is protected by resident deputies fro the i e unt S eri ce

~ Phone: 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies ~

he a t i e ire e cue serves the ew airview area i Blac ney serves as fire chief

~ Phone: 940-626-8094 ~

ucati n

ew airview students attend either a Decatur SD or a rt e t SD

Decatur ini trati n ce ~307 S. Cates 940-393-7100 ~

rt e t ini trati n ce

~ 2001 Texan Drive, Justin 817-215-0000 ~

YOU’RE INVITED: Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Youth + Children: Ministry for the whole family!

4337 US 380, DECATUR, TX Between Bridgeport & Decatur

A Church Family Coming Together to Know God and Make Him Known FathersHouseChurch.live FHCWISE.com

Government

The ayor is Crystal Car ell The city council inclu es Mayor Pro Te Christo her aines, athanial utler, ichar i ebotto , ennifer ill an Melanie Payne The council eets e ery thir Thurs ay in the council cha bers at city hall, u son t

City secretary is enni Moore

~ 817-489-2201

newarktexas.com ~

Services

The i e unt S eri ce res on s to la enforce ent calls ithin the city

~ 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies~

The e ar unteer ire

De art ent ser es e ar an the surroun ing areas erry Taylor is re chief

~ 817-489-2331

newarkvolfiredept.com ~

The e ar u ic i rar , u son t , offers a ariety of e ucational ser ices to the co unity isit the e ar Public ibrary aceboo age for library hours

~ 817-489-2224

newarktexaspubliclibrary.weebly. com ~

The e ar unit enter is in the city hall buil ing u son t

~ Phone: 817-489-2201 ~

ar an ecreati n

The De ra D u t a it ar at the corner of Central A enue an McCanne, irectly across fro the e ar ire all, features a ga ebo an barbecue grill

e ar n S uare ar is outsi e city hall, u son t , features a oo en layset

S ut i e unt ar est of the city on County oa , features a ublic boat ra , icnic tables an lots of shore line for ban shing

nnua ent

~ Newark Crusin’ Days fall festival ~ ucati n e ar is in the ulti le high school rt e t n e en ent Sc Di trict

ini trati n ce

~ 2001 Texan Drive, Justin 817-215-0000 nisdtx.org

Government

A an a lac ser es as ayor City council e bers inclu e Co y

An erson, elan Whitsitt, ance Tuc er, Michael oyer an ohn War The council eets

e ery fourth Mon ay at city hall, Main t

~ 940-969-2114 cityhall@ cityofparadisetexas.org ~

Services

The e u t er ff Office res on s to calls in the city

~ 940-627-5971, or call 911 for emergencies ~

The city is ser e by the ara e u teer re De art e t Darrel utle ge is re chief

ar an ecreati n

The ara e etera e r a Park is o nto n

nnua ent

~ Paradise Main Street Festival ~

ucati n

The a ara e

e e e t c D tr ct has four ca uses an ele entary, inter e iate, unior high an high school

chool boar e bers are o er Mun y, Dr hannon Ca ell, Dr eath ith, an on ith, cott Cox, ussell ea an enea e ele u erinten ent is Will re er

trat ffice

~ 338 School ouse Rd. 940-9692501 ~

ara e c

~ 337 School ouse Rd. 940-9695010 ~

Springtown ISD

Ma

Rhome Cities

Government

Patricia Mitchell is ayor The city council inclu es Michelle Tye ayor ro te , i y ohnson, an all oftis, risti ing an asey hu a e

The council eets the secon an fourth Thurs ay at the ho e Co unity Center, chool

A an a De an is the city a inistrator haina o is city secretary City all is at Main t

~ 817-636-2462 cityofrhome. com ~

Services

The city is ser e by the full ti e e ice De art ent, C ho e A e ric Debus is olice chief

~ 817-636-2400 ~

The e ire e cue ser es the city an surroun ing areas ire Chief is cott stes

~ 817-636-2001, 817-636-2462 or call 911 for emergencies ~

ho e is ho e to the longest ser ing library in Wise County e e unit i rar , W C ho e, o ene in an inclu es boo s, D Ds, au io boo s, ublic co uters an rogra s for all ages year roun

~ 817-636-2767 rhomelibrary. org ~

ar an ecreati n

The city is ho e to t o ar s The e eteran Me ria ar is at the corner of irginia ane an econ treet

e a i ar , irginia ane an tirling ane, inclu es a bas etball court, al ing trail, laygroun , grills, icnic tables an a butterfly gar en

The e unit enter , chool oa , regularly hosts both co unity eetings an e ents an can also be rente for ri ate functions Call city hall for rental rates an a ailability

ight next oor at the sa e a ress is the e Seni r enter

a art a , at Texas , is an o al ile art racetrac that is consistently rate as a to trac in the nation by rea ers of acing n co t hosts e ents throughout the year

~ 1-844-4-O T AW kamkartway.com

nnua ent

~ Rhome Splash Days Trunk or Treat Christmas Tree ighting Santa Sightings ~ ucati n ho e is art of the rt e t n e en ent Sc

Di trict Most stu ents atten Prairie ie or e en ills

ele entary schools, Chishol Trail

Mi le chool an orth est

igh chool

chool boar e bers are te e ro ls, Mar chluter, u y Co , illian auch, Anne i son, ennifer Mur hy an DeAnne atfiel Mar oust is su erinten ent

ini trati n ice

~ 2001 Texan Drive, Justin 817-215-0000 ~

rairie ie e entar

~ 609 FM 3433, Rhome 817-215-0550 ~

Se en i e entar

~ 654 FM 3433, Newark 817-215-0700 ~

i rai Mi e Sc

~ 583 FM 3433, Rhome 817-215-0600 ~

rt e t i Sc

~ 2301 Texan Drive, Justin 817-215-0200 nisdtx.org ~

i cit i inc u e in t e a rt e t SD era e

Runaway Bay

Government

Herman “Berry” White is the mayor of Runaway Bay. The city council includes Mayor Pro Tem Carolyn Moo y, ichar rif n, te e Holt, Todd Low and Chris Petty. The council meets 6 p.m. the third Tuesday at Norma Coble Civic Center, 51 Runaway Bay Dr.

Misty Choate is city secretary.

~ 940-575-4745 runawaybaytexas. com ~

Services

Law enforcement is provided by the Runaway Bay Police Department.

Steve Reynolds is police chief.

~ 940-575-4745 ~

The Runaway Bay Fire Department serves the city and surrounding areas a es ates is re chief

Parks and Recreation

The city owns a marina on the north side of U.S. 380 that features 144 lighted boat slips in a wind shielding cove. Public boat ramps are also available.

The Norma Coble Civic Center, 51 Runaway Bay Dr., is available to city residents for social and community activities.

~ 940-575-4745 ~

Three parks are located in the town.

Charles Todd Park, 698 Runaway Bay Drive, features a sports court and relaxation benches.

Cricket Ridge Park on Runaway Bay Drive next to the Norma Coble Civic Center features a playground.

City Park, 937 Port O Call Drive, features a walking trail, playground and picnic areas.

The Runaway Bay swimming pool, 938 Port O Call Drive at City Park, is open throughout the summer.

~ 940-626-9046 ~

Chupacabra Point Paddling

Trail on Blue Fathom Drive is the launching point for three trails: Boons, Willow and Coal Creeks.

~ tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/boat/ paddlingtrails/inland/runawaybay_ chupacabra ~

The Runaway Bay Public Beach is located next to the causeway connecting Rattlesnake Island to the mainland. It features a designated swimming area and covered picnic tables with cookout grills.

Local Points of Interest

RB Golf Club and Resort, 400 Half Moon Way, features an 18-hole golf course consistently rated as one of the best in Texas, as well as a driving range and banquet facility.

~ 940-575-2225 rbgolf.com ~

Bay Landing/Thousand Trails/ NACO Preserves, 2305 W. U.S. 380 across the bridge from Runaway Bay, features an RV campground on the southeast shore of the lake. Cabins are also available for rent.

~ 800-388-7788 (for members) or 888-481-6348 (for non-members) thousandtrails.com/texas/baylanding-rv-campground ~

The Sid Richardson Boy Scout Ranch, 2282 Longhorn Drive northwest of the city, is a summer

camp tradition for members of the Boy Scouts of America. It includes 16 miles of shoreline and offers a variety of amenities.

~ longhorncouncil.org/sidrichardson-scout-ranch ~

Visiting

The Greater Runaway Bay Alliance works to promote the town and make the city a wonderful place to live, work and play. It hosts the annual 4th Fest around Independence Day. Deborah Lewis is president.

~ grba.citymax.com

GRBATX@gmail.com ~

Annual Events

~ 4th Fest Lighted Christmas Golf Cart Parade Chili Cook Off ~ Education Runaway Bay is part of the Class 4A Bridgeport Independent School District. ini trati e ce

~ 940-683-5124 bridgeportisd. net ~

Local Communities

SLIDELL

li ell as of cially establishe in ecause ost of the original settlers ere southerners, they na e the ne co unity in honor of ohn li ell, a Confe erate i lo at

ocate about a ile south of ar oa on ar oa ust before you enter Denton County, li ell is ho e to the Class A S i e n e en ent Sc Di trict

chool boar e bers inclu e Ti letcher, i Dunla , rian Moore, ohnny uniga, haun Alexan er, te e Pruett an Alex Mar el Taylor Willia s is su erinten ent

ini trati n ce ~ No. 1 Greyhound ane 940-5355260, ext. 235 ~

S i e i Sc uni r i ~ 940-535-5260, ext. 235 ~

S i e e entar Sc ~ 940-535-5260, ext. 224 slidellisd.net ~

li ell is ust a fe iles fro a cou le of o ular Wise County attractions

The a e an n ace a at

ar oa bet een li ell an Decatur, is ho e to the area s re iere roa racing club ts trac is a ile roa course that features turns, ore than feet of ele ation change an a , foot long bac straight

~ 817 583-9476 eaglescanyon.com ~

ocate across the roa fro agles Canyon is i inte S rtin r un Thousan s of s orts en a year sight in ri es, hone istol s ills an shoot clays at ossil Pointe The course is s rea o er ex ansi e acreage that inclu es rolling hills, lenty of trees an il o ers ossil Pointe also hosts a ariety of e ents an allo s se eral organi ations li e the oy couts, , la enforce ent an others to use the facility

~ Phone: 940-393-6402 fossilpointe. net Maryam@ FossilPointe.net ~ D

ne of Wise County s hi en e els is reen oo ou ight feel li e you e ste e bac in ti e as you ull off ar oa onto a tree line county roa that lea s into o nto n reen oo reen oo ha its beginnings hen t o co boys, na e art an reen oo , ca e in the area an eci e to begin a ne settle ent The cree nearby as na e art s Cree an the to n beca e reen oo The reen oo ost of ce as establishe in n , reen oo built the reen oo Male an e ale or al College, hich laste until At the heart of the co unity is the reen r cer , a o ular lunchti e sto no n for so e of the best ha burgers an ho e a e ie in the county The lace is usually ac e on atur ay

nights hen cat sh an li e usic are on the enu During the ee , it s not unco on to see eo le sitting on the front orch laying o inoes or hittling

The co unity hosts a cou le of festi als each year

The reen a e ti a hel each ctober usually inclu es a ara e, en ors an beans an cornbrea The festi al is ut on by the reen oo xtension ucation Club

The reen S i e unteer ire De art ent usually hol s a sh fry fun raiser in con unction ith the e ent

The reen ec in ta es lace in une ith a otluc inner an isiting at the o nto n a ilion

The re e art ent inclu es re stations in both reen oo an li ell The re chief is A a orth ~ Online: gsvfd.us ~

tu ents in the reen oo area atten li ell schools

nnua e ent

~ Greenwood omecoming Greenwood Fall Festival GreenwoodSlidell olunteer Fire Department Fish Fry ~ S

S

Par s rings is in north est Wise County Par rings eri e its na e fro a gro e that surroun e a series of fresh ater s rings in the area The rst co unity as no n as Pringle an later change to Par rings The ost of ce as establishe in Postal ser ice en e in The e elo ent of Par rings as create by the arri al of the oc slan ailroa Par rings ha a thri ing co unity in , but by the en of Worl War , its o ulation as in ecline

Local Communities

In the early 1900s, the town included three grocery stores, a bank, a feed store, an icehouse, a blacksmith shop and a school.

While all of it is gone now, current and former residents of Park Springs meet in the tiny community each year on the Sunday before Labor Day for the Park Springs Homecoming

The nearest towns are Sunset in Montague County, Chico and Alvord. Students in the Park Springs area attend Alvord or Chico schools.

CRAFTON

In the northwest corner of Wise County is Crafton. The formation and naming of Crafton is very straightforward. George R. Craft was an early settler who purchased 160 acres. In 1883, the town was laid out on Craft’s land, and the community a o te the na e Crafton The rst ost of ce as establishe in an discontinued in 1917. Amon G. Carter Sr. was born Giles Amon Carter in Crafton in 1879.

The community once boasted six churches, a school complete with a library and auditorium, various drug and dry goo s stores, corn eal an our ills, a cotton gin and a gas station.

Today the area is served by the Crafton Volunteer Fire Department. Craig

Co ley ser es as re chief

Another nearby re e art ent also provides mutual aid to the area. Andy abo ser es as re chief of the Sand Flat Volunteer Fire Department

The nearest town is Chico, and students in the area attend Chico schools.

COTTONDALE

Cottondale is a few miles south of Paradise on Farm Road 2123, about three miles west of Farm Road 51.

Cottondale, as a community, existed as early as 1860, but it didn’t receive its name until 1875. When the community etitione for a ost of ce, they ere so impressed with one settler’s cotton crop, they asked to name the town Cotton Valley. They were informed by the postal service that Cotton Valley was taken but suggested Cottondale, which suited them. The ost of ce as iscontinue in The community prospered with the help of railroads and the Bridgeport coal mines. However, rail service was eventually lost in Cottondale when the Rock Island track was laid from Fort Worth to Boyd, before turning to Bridgeport.

The Cottondale Volunteer Fire Department offers re rotection for the community. Fire chief is Jason Walker.

The nearby Salt Creek Volunteer Fire Department often provides mutual aid. en ise ser es as re chief

BOONSVILLE/BALSORA

Located on Farm Road 920 southwest of Bridgeport, Boonsville started as a community of families on Boon’s Creek, which was named for Stephen Boon, a pioneer settler. It was moved to its present site in 1882. It continued to grow, and by 1914, it had a population of 200, along with two general stores, a school, bank and steam gristmill. The Boonsville post of ce close in

Nearby on FM 920 southwest of Bridgeport, Balsora was originally called Wild Horse Prairie because of the herds of horses once found there. When the ost of ce as establishe , it as gi en the name Balzora, but an old settler who couldn’t make a “Z” asked it to be change to an The ost of ce as established in April 1894 and discontinued in February 1896. It was reopened in April 1900 and discontinued again in October 1924.

The area is served by the Boonsville/ Balsora Volunteer Fire Department. i y oo in is re chief

ise ounty ar on a e

Bridgeport offers fa ily fun

u a a tu

a e Bridgeport has attracted generations of fa ilies and visitors to its scenic waters

he , -acre la e ust outside the allas- ort orth etroplex is a destination for wee end getaways, offering the perfect spot for fishing, boating, water sports and hi ing nd while a e Bridgeport is nown for its excellent bass fishing and other exciting activities, its also ho e to acres of pri e shoreline for an afternoon of lounging around the water and getting a tan

f you need a place to en oy a day or wee end at a e Bridgeport, ise ounty ar in hico is a great way to access the la e s e erald waters and sandy beaches hile the par on the north end of the la e used to be a si ple ca ping site with a playground and a few picnic tables, recent upgrades have ade it a significant addition to a e Bridgeport s recreational repertoire

he county and par facilitators recently added new a enities and spruced up the appearance of the property, a ing the par a ore welco ing and interactive space for visitors

uests can now gather around an open fire with the recent installation of roc fire pits, or perhaps en oy a relaxing hi e through the par s newly created nature trail

n addition to the once loneso e playground, the par now offers a fenced area filled with various ga es and activities he new activity area, with a stunning overview of the la e, includes a nine-hole iniature golf course, a horseshoe pit, cornhole boards, giant enga bloc s and assive ga e boards for ic- ac- oe and chec ers

he par has received great feedbac fro all of the ids and fa ilies hanging out at the par , ise ounty acilities anager i y ounts said of the new i prove ents and additions he new play area turned out to be a pretty good hangout for all of the fa ilies that are ca ping

n addition to the recent success of the new a enities, ise ounty ar facilitators have continuously wor ed to find even ore ways to connect the co unity with the public resource he la e s soft, sandy shoreline a es for a popular place for building sandcastles ast abor ay wee end, the par held its first sandcastle co petition on the beach, with sand architects of all ages and s ill levels co peting for pri es

e had a great turnout for it being the first ti e, ounts said, adding that the par plans to build on the new abor ay wee end tradition this year ise ounty ar is located at ounty oad in hico, ust west of ar oad

t offers three public boat ra ps with piers, ore than rough ca ping sites and sites

o a e reservations or find out ore infor ation about ise ounty ar , call - - ough ca ping spots are per night per tent spots with full hoo ups are per night spots with electric and water hoo ups are per night he par s pavilions are also available to rent

Parker Properties Real Estate combines experience and service

ar er roperties eal state was established in ecatur in with four agents and a bro er, andy ar er andy was born and raised in ecatur, and is arried to his wife, usanne, another lifelong ise ounty resident

s established e bers of the co unity, they now the i portance of staying engaged in their co unity t s so ething that sets ar er roperties eal state apart fro other agencies, and a es their ho e buying and selling process uni ue hile wor ing in the energy and auto otive industries, and building his real estate business, andy has served on the ecatur ity ouncil, ions lub and continually been involved with nu erous local schools, charities and service organi ations

ar er roperties eal state

has ta en andy and usanne s co it ent to serving the co unity and weaved it into their business practice he staff is active in planning and developing a co unity as their ho e, one they are proud to live in, wor in and prepare for the future

hen buying or selling a ho e, people can be confident that the ar er roperties eal state staff is up to date on the current real estate trends in the area, and use the best practices to satisfy their clients raining is provided twice a onth, where loan officers, title representatives and ar eting advisors are invited to spea to the staff gents are also given ti e to collaborate with each other, sharing advice and as ing uestions to hone their craft to better prepare for new clients

Over the last years, andy has grown ar er roperties eal state fro a handful of e ployees to now over that serve six counties, including ise, ontague, ar er, ac , ichita and arrant

ar er roperties eal state boasts a diverse staff including spouses, parents, established e ployees and agents ic ing off their career he tea even has three generations of one fa ily associated with ar er roperties eal state, proving the co pany s co it ent to not only its clients, but also its e ployees

f you re searching for your drea ho e, wanting to sell your house for top dollar or loo ing to relocate to orth entral exas, visit par erpropertiestexas co , or call - hey ll never let your call go unanswered

940-683-2076 | nathan@bridgeportchamber.org

812 A Halsell Street • Bridgeport, TX 76426

Banquet

Butterfield Stage Days Festival & BBQ Cook-Off Taste Bridgeport | Santa Letters & Small Business

Saturday

BRIDGEPORT

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LUNCHEON Third Thursday of Each Month

www.bridgeportchamber.org

Trivial Pursuit, Wise County Edition

The classic boar ga e Tri ial Pursuit as e layers to ans er uestions in six categories geogra hy, entertain ent, history, art an literature, science an nature, an s orts an leisure

ow any acres does the B ational rasslands cover in ise ounty

hat country roc band referred to the ise ounty town of ho e in the na e of

hat wee -long su er event is the oldest recurring public event in ise ounty

hat is the na e of the oil painting, co issioned as part of the or s ro ect d inistration, that has hung in the old post office current ecatur isitor enter since

hat ythical creature was supposedly found on a golf course in unaway Bay in

ho is the ecatur resident that holds the record for ost rofessional odeo owboys ssociation world titles with

hat is na e of the ecoregion that stretches fro ansas to entral exas, and includes ise ounty, which for s the boundary between the ore heavily forested eastern country and the ostly treeless reat lains

hat aith ill usic video was partially shot in ecatur in and used in the ovie earl arbor

hat was the na e of the stagecoach service which passed through ise ounty in the id- s that stretched fro ennessee to alifornia

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BelWave serves a wide range of business clients from construction to healthcare, industrial to manufacturing, and many more.

Why BelWave?

Deliver: Is today soon enough?

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Der lac ree a e

Welcome Home

S eri ce

The i e unt S eri ce provides law enforcement and promotes safety for the entire county. Divisions include administration, detention, patrol, special services (animal control, asset control, civil process, courthouse security, Crime Stoppers, criminal warrants, property and evidence, sex offender registration, transport and vehicle impound), specialized enforcement, communications, criminal investigations, crime scene investigation, school resource of cers an boat atrol heriff is Lane Akin. ~ 940-627-5971 sheriff.co.wise.tx.us ~

Emergency Medical Services

Wise County EMS provides emergency pre-hospital care as well as critical care and non-emergency transfers for the entire county. It staffs four fulltime MICU level ambulances, a rescue unit operated by a shift supervisor and a part-time MICU unit that’s in service Monday through Friday. EMS administrator is Randall Preuninger. ~ 940-627-2002, or call 911 for emergencies ems.co.wise.tx.us ~

Public Dumps

The county o erates e ublic u s that accept household trash from Wise County residents. They are not for commercial use.

The Boyd Dumpsite, 546 South Allen St., is open 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday.

The Chico Dumpsite, 2897 Farm Road 1655 South, is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

The Cottondale Dumpsite, 6465 Farm Road 2123, is open 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday.

The Slidell Dumpsite, 242 County Road 2820, is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Thursday through Saturday.

The Decatur Dumpsite, 127 Private Road 4195, is open 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Recycling is available for clean cardboard, newspaper, paper, plastic, tin cans, alu inu cans, oil an oil lters an batteries.

~ co.wise.tx.us ~

eteran Ser ice ce

The VSO helps veterans acquire bene ts through the eterans A inistration ene ts inclu e education, money, home loans and monthly compensation. Employees at the VSO serve as mediators who le clai s an re resent Wise County eterans The of ce, tate t in Decatur, is open 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to noon Friday.

~ 940-627-2470 wisevets@co.wise. tx.us ~

Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation District

The Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation District is a government organization that works to protect groundwater resources in the counties of Montague, Wise, Parker and Hood through the registration of water wells, observing aquifer levels and conservation education. The district of ce is in ringto n, W Texas 199. Mailing address is P.O. Box 1749, Springtown, TX 76082.

~ 817-523-5200, or toll free 877-38UTGCD uppertrinitygcd.com ~

Wise County Water Control

and Improvement

District No. 1 (WCID)

The Wise County Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 (WCID) su orts oo control an the conservation of natural resources. It’s a taxing entity, and its funds are use for ro ects such as oo ater retarding dams in the county, securing

easements needed to build the dams, watershed projects and cost sharing with landowners in the district. The of ce is at W usiness in Decatur.

~ 940-627-2942 ~

USDA Service Center

Wise County farmers and ranchers are served by the U.S. Department of Agriculture service center on Business U.S. 380 West in Decatur.

The center is home to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Rural Development. The staff, headed by District Conservationist Darnell Willis, provides assistance to protect, develop and wisely use natural resources. The mission of the NRCS is “Helping People Help the Land.”

~ 940-627-2268, Ext. 3 ~

The Wise County Farm Service enc S ce, headed by Tracy Meadows, administers federal USDA farm programs locally.

~ 940-627-2268, Ext. 2 ~ Rural Development, headed by Area Director Allen Lambright, has a mission of helping the people of rural America develop sustainable communities and improve quality of life.

~ 940-627-2268, Ext. 4 ~

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service strives to improve lives through e ucation The Wise County of ce is in Decatur, 206 S. State St., Suite A. The Agriculture and Natural Resource programs are designed to reach agriculture producers as well as homeowners.

The Family and Consumer Sciences programs offer practical information for families on raising children, eating well, managing money and staying healthy. Extension agents include: Marty Morgan, agriculture/natural resources;

Wise County Info

Amy Wagner, family and consumer sciences; Karly West, 4-H and youth development and Jacqueline Gonzalez, Better Living for Texans. Lillian Hinson is the 4-H program assistant. ~ 940-627-3341 wise.agrilife.org ~

4-H

4-H has numerous projects, opportunities and learning experiences for youth. The organization encourages family members to work together on projects while instilling integrity, work ethic and a devotion to community service in its members, ages 8 to 19. 4-H is open to all boys and girls regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, handicap or national origin. Children not yet old enough for 4-H can join Clover Kids. Designed as an introduction to 4-H, this informal education program is for children ages 5 through 8.

If you are interested in joining Wise County 4-H, call Karly West, County Extension agent – 4-H and youth development, at the Texas A&M Agri ife xtension of ce in Wise County, 940-627-3341. You can also n infor ation on the aceboo Page facebook.com/WiseCounty4H.

Alvord 4-H Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. first Monday

Contact: Amanda Moak 940-3896274 ~

Boyd 4-H Club

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. third Tuesday at Trinity Baptist Church in Boyd

Contact: John Moore 817-999-9255 ~

Bridgeport 4-H Club

~ Meets: 3 p.m. second Sunday at Bridgeport Intermediate School

Contact: Meghan German 979-7776494 ~

Chico 4-H Club

~ Meets: 4 p.m. second Sunday at Chico Elementary School cafeteria

Contact: Kelly Martin 940-210-2506 ~

Decatur 4-H Club

~Meets: 6 p.m. fourth Monday at NRS breakroom Contact: Sherri Fraser 940-910-8069 ~

Paradise 4-H Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. second Tuesday at Paradise Elementary School cafeteria

Contact: J.J. and Britney French 940-399-6354 ~

Slidell/Greenwood 4-H Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. second Tuesday at Slidell High School cafeteria Contact: Rachel Willett 940-210-7893 ~

Victory 4-H Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. third Monday at Victory Christian Academy Contact: Brooke Stewart 940-393-3870 ~

Clothing and Textiles Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. first Tuesday at Extension office Contact: Julia Haschke 817-690-4823 ~

Horse Club

~ Meets: 6 p.m. third Thursday at NRS Saddle Shop Contact: Haley Shurden 940-393-1685 ~

i e i t S t un r ect

~ Meets: Rifle and pistol 8:30 a.m. or 2 p.m. second and last Sunday at Decatur PD shooting range, shotgun meets at 1 p.m. at Parker County sportsman club. Contact: Kristi Polone 940-3209230 ~

Dog Project

~Contact: Janie Vawter 940-8596520 ~

Photography Project

~ Meets: 4 p.m. fourth Sunday at Extension office Contact: Velvet Oberg 940-255-0808 ~

Vet Science

~ Meets: 5:30 p.m. second Monday at Weatherford College Contact: Sandy Leichliter 940-465-6695 ~

Goat Project

~ Meets: 3 p.m. third Sunday at Chico 4-H/FFA barn, 205 North Mount St., Chico Contact: Kelly Martin 940210-2506 ~

Poultry Project

~ Meets: meetings vary at Extension office Contact: Julia Haschke 817690-4823 ~

Clover Kids

~ Meets: 6 p.m. second Thursday at the Women’s Building, Wise County Fairgrounds Contact: Kristen Baird 940-393-5632 ~

Rabbit Project

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. third Thursday at Trinity Baptist Church in Boyd Contact: John Moore 817-999-9255 ~

Livestock Judging

~ Contact: Todd Vineyard 254-9772045, email lmwashburn@ag.tamu.edu to get on mailing list ~

County Council

~ Contact: Karly West Meets: 6 p.m. first Monday at Extension office 940627-3341 ~

LBJ National Grasslands

For those looking for a break from the day-to-day routine, try spending time enjoying the natural beauty of the LBJ National Grasslands.

The roughly 20,302 acres that make up the Grasslands in northern Wise County offers a recreation area at Black Creek Lake, which includes camping, picnic tables, restrooms and a boat ramp. TADRA Point offers one of the best trail riding opportunities in the area and also features a campground. The 75-mile LBJ Multi-Use Trail can be used for horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking and has campsites along the way. Valley View Campground has 15 developed campsites, a restroom, water for horses and a pavilion with a grill. Some areas may require a fee for use.

Start your escape to nature by visiting the ational orest er ice of ce at 1400 U.S. 81/287 in Decatur. District ranger is Jeff Stoney.

~ 940-627-5475 fs.usda.gov/texas ~

Wise County Park

Wise County Park at Lake Bridgeport offers shing, icnic tables, s i ing and camping.

The county has recently added lawn ga es, t o roc re its an ne lighting. Other amenities include a playground, boat ramps with piers, public restrooms, showers and a walking/nature trail.

Wise County Park offers both reser ations an s ots that are rst co e rst ser e basis The ar offers eight spots that are non-reservable, tent camping spots and RV spots with full hookups or water and electric hookups.

Rough camping spots are $10 per night per tent. RV spots with full hookups are $30 per night. RV spots with electric and water hookups are $25 per night. Pavilions are also available for rent, $50 per day for the large pavilion and $30 per day for one of two small pavilions. RVs and tents are extra.

The park is located at the north end of the lake, just west of Farm Road 2952.

~ 940-644-1910 co.wise.tx.us under Public Works heading ~

Weatherford College Wise County

Weatherford College Wise County

opened a permanent campus between Decatur and Bridgeport in the fall of 2012.

General education classes include the Texas common core, which is 42 semester credit hours that are guaranteed to transfer to four-year public universities in the state of Texas. WCWC also offers courses of study in registered nursing and cosmetology. WCWC partners with all Wise County high schools to provide dual-credit courses in order for high school students to obtain college credit while still in high school. Noncredit, technical-oriented programs and classes in Workforce Education are also available, and the college has become a popular site for community meetings and special training sessions. The college is at 502 Big Sandy Court in Bridgeport.

~ 940-627-2690 wc.edu ~

Wise County Messenger

We here at the Wise County Messenger think everyone living in Wise ought to know what’s going on in the place we all call home. And the best way to do that is to read the Wise County Messenger newspaper.

We publish our national-award winning paper every Thursday as well as a single-sheet Update daily Monday through Friday. Both are also available in digital formats. News, photos, advertising and more can also be found on our website, WCMessenger. com. Connect with us on social media through our pages on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

In addition to our regular publications, the Messenger produces a number of special sections throughout the year. Download the free Wise County Messenger app, which includes the daily Update, in-depth news coverage, captivating sports stories and up-tothe-minute breaking news, plus every edition of the print product. Push noti cations ensure you ll ne er iss the latest story.

The Messenger also offers publishing services to outside businesses and entities.

ur of ce is at Trinity t in historic downtown Decatur.

~ 940-627-5987 wcmessenger.com ~

Annual events

~ Wise County Youth Fair Wise County Health Fair Grasslands Trail Run Wise County Home and Lawn Show Relay for Life Dazzle Me Pink United Way Golf Tournament

Youth Art Show Memorial Day Program Wise County Olympathon

Kids Fishing Derby Sonflower Camp Wise County Old Settlers

Reunion Biker Bash Wise Health Foundation Clay Shoot Taste of Wise County Patriot Day Program

Reading of Constitution United Way Golf Tournament Chisholm Trail

Antique Tractor Club Auction Wise County Public Safety Fall Festival

Veterans Day Program Blue Ribbon Bash A Touch of Rust Vintage Craft

Show Wise County Toy Run Wise County Chamber Awards ~

The fundamental mission of the Decatur Chamber Of Commerce is t o generate more business activity for the community and local bus iness owners. The Decatur Chamber initiates more business-to-business commerce and opportunities for networking and connecting local professionals than is available through most other local organi zations. W hether you are a new or established business, we are here to su pport your business. It’s our goal to provide members with opportunit ies to develop their businesses and become more profitable. We are con vinced that being involved and building relationships will result in t he growth of your business. Your Success is Our Business!

Finding Your Fit

4-H and Clover Kids

~ Contact: Karly West 940-627-3341 ~

Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce

~ Meets: Membership lunch is 11:30 a.m. every third Thursday at Weatherford College Wise County. Contact: Executive Director Nathan Byers 940-683-2076 Location: 812A Halsell St.; P.O. Box 1104, Bridgeport, TX 76426 bridgeportchamber.org ~

Bridgeport Lions Club

~ Meets: Noon first and third Wednesdays at the Bridgeport Lions Club Hall, 1107 8th Street Contact: Tonja Underwood 940-393-0484 bridgeportlionsclub.com ~

Bridgeport Women’s Club

~ Meets: Quarterly Address: P.O. Box 485, Bridgeport, TX 76426 Bridgeport Womens Club on Facebook ~

Chico Chamber of Commerce

~ Meets: Noon second Tuesday, except July and August, at the Chico Senior Center Contact: Rick Bowling 940-626-9143 Address: P.O. Box 533, Chico, TX 76431 Chico Texas Chamber of Commerce on Facebook ~

Chico Chapter No. 433 Order of the Eastern Star

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. first Tuesday at the Chico Masonic Lodge, 112 W. Jacksboro St., on the Chico Square Contact: Bobbie Morris 940-6442339 ~

Chico Masonic Lodge No. 508

~ Meets: 7:30 p.m. first Thursday at the Chico Masonic Lodge, 112 W. Jacksboro St., on the Chico Square Contact: Tom Ferguson 940-3899879 ~

Daughters of the American Revolution, John B. Denton Chapter

~ Meets: social at 9:30 a.m. followed by meeting at 10 a.m. third Saturday August through May in the parlor room of the First Baptist Church in Decatur Contact: Connie Brawley 940393-5971 jaogle45@gmail.com or conniebrawley@embarqmail.com ~

Decatur Chamber of Commerce

~ Meets: 11:30 a.m. fourth Tuesday (except June, July and December) at Decatur Conference Center Contact: Executive Director Misty Berry 940627-3107 decaturtx.com ~

Decatur Junior Woman’s Club

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Monday September through May Contact: Jessica Gage Jessica.gage@outlook. com eventsdjwc.com ~

Decatur Lions Club

~ Meets: Noon Wednesday (except the fifth Wednesday of the month) at the Lions Club Building, 207 N. State St., Decatur For building rental, call Anita Ross at 940-255-7636 ~

Decatur Rotary Club

~ Meets: Noon Thursday at Decatur Conference Center, 2010 W. U.S. 380 decaturrotary5790@gmail.com decaturrotary.com ~

GFWC/TFWC

Decatur Woman’s Club

~ Meets 6:30 p.m. second Tuesday September through May at Patti’s Cantina Contact: Dee Ann Archer dejaa201@gmail.com 940-735-0361 ~

Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 70

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at 2801B FM 51 South, Decatur Contact: Kayla W. Jones 940-399-3291 kaylajones.dav@gmail.com davtexas. org ~

Resource Guide For Local Community Groups

First Baptist Church HOPE (Helping

Others Practice English)

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday September through May at First Baptist Church Decatur, 1200 Preskitt Rd. 940-627-3235 ~

Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority

~ Meets: Second Saturday September through May (except for March)

Contact: Rachel Gasperson 940-2102452 ~

Greater Runaway Bay Alliance

~ Meets: As needed GRBATX@ gmail.com grba.citymax.com ~

Sons of Confederate VeteransAlbert Sidney Johnston Camp No. 983

~ Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at the Wesley Center of the First United Methodist Church of Decatur, 201 E. Main St. ~

Veterans Support Group

~ Meets: Call for an appointment Contact: Karen Self 940-872-5947 karenandleroy.self@yahoo.com ~

Wise County Art Association

~ Wise County Art Association on Facebook diaczenko@yahoo.com ~

Wise County Chamber of Commerce

~ Meets: 11:45 a.m. first Monday (exceptions apply for legal holidays) at Weatherford College Wise County; Monthly coffees, networks and mixers throughout the year. See website for scheduled dates. Contact: Mende Hanley info@wisecountychamber.com wisecountychamber.com ~

Wise County Community Coalition

~ Meets: Noon second Monday at various locations St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Decatur Contact: Mike Bell 940-799-1077 mbell4344@gmail.com ~

Wise County Democratic Party

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Tuesday at Fairfield Inn and Suites in Decatur

Contact: Chair Janet Amos 940-399-7352 wisedemocrats@gmail. com wisedemocrats.com ~

Wise County Fossil, Rock and Mineral Society

~ Meets: 6:30 p.m. third Tuesday even numbered months at Pleasant View Baptist Church in Decatur

Contact: Tom Robinson 940393-9620 wcfrms@gmail.com wisecofossilrockandmineralsoc.weebly. com or Wise County Fossil, Rock, and Mineral Society on Facebook ~

Wise County Genealogical Society

~ Meets: 5:30 p.m. third Thursday January-May and September-November at First Baptist Church in Decatur

Contact: Patti Gillespie 940-328-2104 gensearcherpatti@gmail.com ~

Wise County Quilt Guild

~ Meets: 10 a.m. third Saturday at Bridgeport Church of Christ Contact: Jo Ellen JsweetliteJ@yahoo.com ~

Wise County Republican Party

~ Contact: Chair Mike Drury 940324-2021 Drurywisegopchair@pm.me wisetxgop.com ~

Wise County Retired School Personnel

~ Meets: 11:30 a.m. (lunch), noon (program) fourth Tuesday except May and December at Decatur Conference Center Contact: Ruby Quanz 817773-2941 Bunny Perry 940-3891889 ~

Wise County United Way

~ Contact: uwwise.ed@embarqmail. com wisecountyunitedway.org ~

Wise County Veterans Group

~ Meets: 8 a.m. Saturday for breakfast (see website for locations) wisecountyvets.org ~

Wise Health System Auxiliary

~ 940-627-5921 wisehealthsystem. com/giving/hospital-volunteers/ ~

TODAY CALL US

Composition Shingle

Commercial Roofing

Slate Tile Specialist

Clay Tile Specialist

Metal Roofing

Specialty Roofing

Preserving Local History

Resource guide for local historical societies and museums

Wise County Historical Commission

The commission is responsible for initiating and conducting programs concerning Wise County and Texas history suggested by county commissioners and the Texas Historical Commission. It is responsible for collecting, preserving and making available to the public the historic archives. It also reviews all applications for state historical markers before they are sub itte to the T C Due to a re at the Wise County Heritage Museum, the commission is using a temporary location at 114 E. Main St., Ste. C, in downtown Decatur, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Mail can still be received at the museum address of 1602 S. Trinity St., Decatur, TX.

~ Meets: Quarterly (1 p.m. fourth Thursday, March, June, September, November) Contact: Kerry Clower 940-627-5586 wisehistory.com wisemuseum@embarqmail.com ~

Wise County Historical Society

The organization owns and operates the Wise County Heritage Museum, 1602 S. Trinity St. in Decatur, which burned in March of 2023. Its main focus is to raise money for the rebuilding of the museum while maintaining and continuing to collect artifacts related to the history of Wise County and Texas in general. As of June 2023, the museum was only accepting monetary donations at this time. Donations may be made by credit card at the website listed below or by check by mailing to the museum address listed above. The society is using a temporary location at 114 E. Main St., Ste. C, in downtown Decatur, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Mail can still be received at the museum address.

~ Meets: Noon fourth Thursday except August and December 940-6275586 wisemuseum@embarqmail.com wisehistory.com ~

Paradise Historical Society

Presentations of interest to the community are included in each regular meeting. One major fundraiser each year is the Paradise Main Street Festival, the last Saturday of September and free to the public. Funds are raised through local business sponsorships, auctions, car show and other activities. The money is used to maintain the Paradise Veterans’ Memorial Park, Paradise Museum and to support the local community. President is Jim Taylor.

~ Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday January, March, May, July, September and November at the Methodist Church in Paradise Contact: Donna Weeden 940-859-3691 paradisemainstreetfestival@gmail.com paradisehistoricalsociety.org ~

Paradise Museum

The historical museum, 216 Main Street opened in 2017 and features an exhibit on Machine Gun Kelly, a 19th century organ, exhibits honoring local veterans, railroad memorabilia, old Paradise school house photos and Paradise yearbooks from 1941-1999. Genealogical research is available.

~ Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, Friday and Saturday Contact: Gay Read 940-969-2021 ~

Bridgeport Historical Society

The Bridgeport Historical Society operates a historical museum at 812B Halsell St. The Society’s primary purpose is to rediscover, perpetuate and preserve the history of the Bridgeport area.

~ Meets: 11:30 a.m. third Monday

at Bridgeport Heritage Museum

bridgeporttxhistorical.org ~

Bridgeport Heritage Museum

Interactive exhibits and historic artifacts weave together to tell the story of Bridgeport’s history at the Bridgeport eritage Museu n the lo er oor of the Bridgeport Visitors Center on Halsell Street, the museum features exhibits about the utter el tagecoach ays, oil and gas exploration and coal mining.

~ Hours: 1-4 p.m. Monday through Saturday or by request ~

Wise County Veterans Memorial Museum

The museum, operated by the Wise County Veterans Group, opened in 2015 and contains exhibits that chronicle the history of ars an con icts in our country, from the Alamo to the War on Terror with emphasis on the “forgotten” wars of Korea and Vietnam. The museum makes special note of the role Texans, and particularly Wise County residents, played in our nation’s history. It’s at 1308 10th St. in Bridgeport.

~ Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday 940-683-1054 ~

Aurora Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission works to promote the history of the city, preserve the historic atmosphere of the district as it developed between 1850 and 1920, restore or reconstruct historic structures and sites within the historic district and encourage an active business climate which promotes the development of a diverse range of businesses compatible with the historic district.

~ Meets: Quarterly ~

THEREPUBLICAN PARTYOFTEXASMISSION

We are committed to advancing limited government, lower taxes, less spending and individual liberty. Our specific goals are to grow the Republican Party by reaching new voters, advance the Platform, which is grounded in conservative principles, and to keep Texas prosperous and free. Learn more contact us at info@wisetxgop.com

Serving the Public

ecte Offic a County Judge

J.D. Clark

940-627-5743

cojudge@co.wise.tx.us

Sheriff Lane Akin

940-627-5971

sheriff@sheriff.co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 1 Commissioner

John Biff Hayes

940-627-5810

comm1@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 2 Commissioner

Kevin D. Burns

940-427-4881

comm2@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 3 Commissioner

Danny Lambert

940-433-5365

comm3@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 4 Commissioner Colby Shawn

940-683-4153

comm4@co.wise.tx.us

County Clerk

Blanca Tuma

940-627-3351

countyclerk@co.wise.tx.us

District Clerk

Loucrecia Biggerstaff

940-627-5535

districtclerk@co.wise.tx.us

Tax Assessor/Collector

Monte Shaw

- - tax office

940-627-3304 (auto registration) monte.shaw@co.wise.tx.us

Treasurer

Katherine Hudson

940-627-3540

treasurer@co.wise.tx.us

County Court-at-Law No. 1 Judge Greg Lowery

940-627-5005

ccl@co.wise.tx.us

County Court-at-Law No. 2 Judge Dana Manoushagian

940-683-0268

ccl2@co.wise.tx.us

County Attorney

Che Rotramble

940-627-3321

countyattorney@co.wise.tx.us

District Judge

Brock Smith

940-627-3200

District Attorney

James Stainton

940-627-5257

districtattorney@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 1

Justice of the Peace

Jan Morrow

940-627-2694

jp1@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 2

Justice of the Peace

Kim Redman

940-626-4206

jp2@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 3

Justice of the Peace

Mandy Hays

940-433-2969

p office co wise tx us

Precinct 4

Justice of the Peace

Willie Garrett

940-683-4244

jp4court@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 1 Constable

Rex Hoskins

940-273-7288

constable1@co.wise.tx.us

Resource Guide to Local Elected and Appointed Officials

Precinct 2 Constable

Galen Wiley

940-626-0027

constable2@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 3 Constable Charles Applewhite

940-433-5513

constable3@co.wise.tx.us

Precinct 4 Constable Kevin Huffman

940-683-3750

constable4@co.wise.tx.us

State and U.S. Representatives

Texas House District 64 Lynn Stucky, 940-243-0230

Texas Senate District 12 Tan Parker, 512-463-0112

U.S. Representative, Texas District 12

Kay Granger, 817-338-0909

U.S. Representative, Texas District 13

Ronny Jackson, 940-285-8000

te Offic a

Wacy Beck, 911 Addressing

940-627-9332

911addressing@co.wise.tx.us

Diana Allen, Asset Management 940-627-3312

asset@co.wise.tx.us

Ann McCuiston, County Auditor 940-627-5744

auditor@co.wise.tx.us

Chad Davis, County Engineer 940-273-7289

engineer@co.wise.tx.us

Sabra Srader, Elections Administrator

940-626-4453 | 940-627-3656

elections@co.wise.tx.us

Randall Preuninger, EMS Administrator 940-627-2002

rpreuninger@ems.co.wise.tx.us

Jeff Doughty, Fire Marshal

940-627-5870

fire arshal co wise tx us

Cody Powell, Emergency Management Coordinator

940-627-5870

cody.powell@co.wise.tx.us

Beverly Kalisek, Indigent Health Care

940-627-4203

ihc@co.wise.tx.us

Clint Summers, IT Coordinator 940-626-2055

dir@co.wise.tx.us

Public Works

940-627-9332

publicworks@co.wise.tx.us

Steven Melton, Director of Information Technology

940-626-2055

sysadmin@co.wise.tx.us

Blake Walls, etera er ce Officer

940-627-2470

wisevets@co.wise.tx.us

Gigi Gogniat, Wise County Animal Shelter

940-627-7577

acshelter@co.wise.tx.us

Helping our Neighbors

Abby’s Joy

A foundation formed to help families n su ort an infor ation hile walking the path of Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) ~ abyzjoy.com ~

Acts 4 Others

Seeks to unite thecommunity and all available resources to prevent ho elessness an ght root causes of poverty stricken families in Wise County.

~ Contact: Jessica Sicking 940-222-6647 acts4others.org ~

Al-Anon

A mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.

~ Meets: Monday and Wednesday 6:30-7:30 p.m. at 602 N. Business U.S. 81/287, Decatur, TX 76234 Contact: Frances Stack 940-594-5087 ~

Alcoholics Anonymous

International fellowship of men and women who have had a drinking problem.

~ Meets: Daily at noon, 6:30 and 8 p.m. at 602 N. Business U.S. 81/287, Decatur, TX 76234 Contact: Larry Gober 940627-3800, 940-393-8669 ~

Wise Alzheimer’s (Support Group)

Helping people who help someone with Alzheimer’s.

~ Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday Contact: Richard Sides 940-255-0244

American Cancer Society

Education, support groups

~ 1200 Summit Ave., Suite 320, Fort Worth, TX 76102 cancer.org 817737-9990 or 24-hour 800-227-2345 ~

American Red Cross

Volunteers make up a disaster action team that responds to local disasters such as house res an torna oes

~ Contact: Melvin Castleberry 940210-4908 or regional office, 214-6784800 ~

Area Agency on Aging Nursing Home Ombudsman Program

Ombudsmen in Wise County help achieve the best life for residents in nursing and assisted living centers.

~ Contact: Tina Rider, Managing Local Ombudsman — Bridgeport Medical Lodge/Nursing Home; Decatur Medical Lodge/Nursing Home; Heritage Place of Decatur/Nursing Home; The Hills Nursing & Rehabilitation/Nursing Home; Governor’s Ridge/Assisted Living; The Residences/Assisted Living 817-695-9196 ~

CASA of Wise and Jack Counties

Provides trained child advocates to serve as independent voices in court for abused and neglected children, as well as case management services for children in CPS care. Volunteer opportunities are available.

~ Contact: Executive Director Elizabeth Randle 300 E. Pecan, Decatur, TX 76234 casawise.org 940-627-7535 ~

Child Study Center

Provides diagnosis and treatment services to children who have or are at risk for developmental disabilities and related behavioral and emotional problems

~ 1300 West Lancaster, Fort Worth, TX 76102 cscfw.org 682-303-9261 ~

Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas

Responds to the crime of child abuse with victim advocacy and mental health services for child abuse victims and their families, and coordinates the investigation and prosecution of child abuse cases with local partners. Also offers community and in-school education on the topic of child abuse recognition, reporting, and prevention.

~ 2302 Woodrow Wilson Ray Circle, Bridgeport, TX cacnorthtexas.org 972-317-2818 ~

Communities in Schools of North Texas

Provides drop-out prevention and stay-inschool services to at-risk and economically disadvantaged students in schools in Denton and Wise counties.

~ 217 South Stemmons Fwy, Suite 101, Lewisville, TX 75067 cisnt.org 972-538-9930 ~

Cornerstone Community Action Agency Headstart

Provides educational and case management services to children and their families through Head Start and Early Head Start.

Bridgeport Head Start

~ Contact: Skylar Furgeson 682-312-6515 ~

Resource Guide for Local Health or Social Service Assistance or Support

Decatur (Mulberry) Head Start

~ Contact: Jackie Ackerman ~ Center Supervisor (for Mulberry and Bridgeport)

~ Contact: Jackie Ackerman 682-312-6512 ~

Decatur Early Head Start

~ Contact: Brittany Hayes 940-641-3533 ~

Boyd Head Start

~Contact: Angelica Ruiz 940-400-0150 ~

Decatur MS Support Group

Provides an opportunity for people living with Multiple Sclerosis to connect to others with similar life experiences.

~ Meets: 6 p.m. second Tuesday at Braum’s in Decatur Contact: Julie Kirk 318-680-1210 aug3101@ hotmail.com ~

Diabetes Education Classes

Total Diabetes Care at Wise Health System offers regular diabetes education classes intended to help those with diabetes better understand and manage the disease.

~ Contact: Dick Gilley and Brenda Haile 940-626–1890 ~

ECS

Provides Early Childhood Intervention (E.C.S.) services to children birth to 3 years of age who are experiencing developmental delays or disabilities.

~ 817-446-8000 mhmrtc.org ~

Helen Farabee Center MHMR

Treats s eci c ental health issues Services are also available for intellectual and physical disabilities. Adults and children are treated.

~ 1515 U.S. 81/287 Business, Decatur, TX 76234 helenfarabee.org 940627-1251 ~

Logos

Counseling

Offers counseling with fees on a sliding scale.

~ 2201 South FM 51, Decatur, TX 76234 logoscounseling.com 817812-2880 ~

Made 2 Thrive

Provides opportunities for individuals and families with special needs.

~ P.O. Box 601, Bridgeport, TX 76426 940-577-0570 made2thrive.org ~

Mary’s Gift Program

Provides free diagnostic and screening mammograms to low-income, uninsured women in Wise County.

~ Wise Health System East Campus, 609 Medical Center Dr., Decatur, TX 76234 WiseHealthFoundation.com/ marysgift 940-626-1329 ~

Metroport Meals on Wheels

Delivers meals to residents of Aurora, Boyd, Justin, Newark and Rhome.

~ metroportmow.org 817-491-1141 ~

Moncrief Cancer Institute

Provides fully funded mobile mammography for the uninsured in Wise County and the surrounding area.

~ moncrief.com

800-405-7739 ~

Parkinson Support Group of Wise County

Parkinson’s Disease support group for patients who have Parkinson’s, their caregivers, family members and friends in Wise County and surrounding counties.

~ Meets: First Tuesday each month at 6 p.m. Location: Wise Christian Counseling in the Prada Shops, 1650 S. FM 51 Ste. 400, Decatur Contact: Pamela Hudson 940-389-0642 ~

Raquel’s Wings for Life

Provides free air transportation for cancer patients to the medical center they need.

~ 351 Airport Rd., Box 2, Decatur, TX 76234 940-399-9504 flabrad@ icloud.com ~

Salvation Army

Rental assistance, utilities, emergency support, emergency relief for travelers. Sponsors Christmas tree for Angels and WCCA Meals on Wheels clients.

~ Wise County Unit: WARM, 300 N. Trinity, Decatur, TX 76234 940-626-4676 (After hours, call Decatur or Bridgeport police department or Wise County Sheriff’s Office.) ~

Helping our Neighbors

S cia Securit ce

Although Wise County doesn’t have a ocial ecurity f ce, ost business can be handled online or by phone. If an of ce isit is necessary, the closest of ce is in Denton

~ 2201 Colorado Blvd., Denton, TX 76205 ssa.gov 888-717-1530 ~

South Wise Services

Food pantry, clothing and other assistance as funds are available.

~ Trinity Baptist Church, P.O. Box 217, Boyd, TX 76023 940-433-5281 ~

Southeast Wise County Community Services

Provides food pantry and limited emergency assistance to Rhome and Newark area residents in need.

~ P.O. Box 148, Newark, TX 76071 817-439-3973 ~

Southwestern Diabetic Foundation

Rehabilitation and education training for boys and girls with diabetes through residential summer camps at Camp Sweeney.

~ P.O. Box 918, Gainesville, TX 76241 campsweeney.org 940-665-2011 ~

Stroke Overcomers Support

Group

~ Meets: 6 p.m. third Wednesday at Wise Health System, 1000 Medical Center Drive in Decatur Contact: Casey Rauschuber/Amber Everett 940-626-2457 ~

Susan G. Komen North Texas

Funds breast health education, screening, treatment and patient services for medically underserved men and women in the North Texas service area, including Wise County.

~ 13770 Noel Road, Ste. 801889 Dallas, TX 75380 komennorthtexas. org 1-877-GO KOMEN info@ komen.org ~

TAPS

Public transit service for medical, shopping, social, education, employment and more. Meals on Wheels clients ride free.

~ 6104 Texoma Pkwy., Sherman, TX 75090 tapsbus.com 844-603-6048

Tarrant Area Food Bank

Working with local agencies, the food bank delivers food for distribution to area residents in need once a month to three mobile pantry locations in Wise County.

Decatur Cares sponsored by First United Methodist Church in Decatur

~ 104 S. Miller St., Decatur 8-9 a.m. first Saturday 940-627-3362 ~

First Methodist Church in Bridgeport

~ 608 17th St., Bridgeport 8:30-10 a.m. second Thursday 940-257-3578 ~

U-Turn World Ministries in Chico

~ 306 N. Texas 101, Chico 2-5 p.m. fourth Thursday Contact: Clover Alexander 940-644-5555 ~

Texas Neighborhood Services Community Services

Assistance to low income households with utility payments, heating/cooling system repairs, energy education and budget counseling.

~ 300 N. Trinity, Suite B, Decatur, TX 76234 940-626-4277 (Friday only) 522 Palo Pinto, Weatherford, TX 76086 817-598-5700 txns.org ~

Texas Ramp Project

Builds wheelchair ramps for disabled or elderly people who cannot afford to buy one.

~ texasramps.org ~

Trinity Habitat for Humanity

Builds quality, affordable houses for uali e lo inco e fa ilies

~ 9333 N. Normandale St., Fort Worth, TX 76116 trinityhabitat.org 817-926-9219 ~

Wise Area Relief Mission (WARM)

Provides food pantry, referral and information services, and limited nancial assistance for utilities an prescriptions when funds are available.

~ 300 N. Trinity, Decatur, TX 76234 warmtx.org 940-626-4676 ~

Valor Ranch

Home of the SHEROES - Serving, Honoring, Empowering, Restoring, Our Esteemed Service women

~ Decatur, TX 76234 682-283-1844

info@valorranchtx.org ~

Resource Guide for Local Health or Social Service Assistance or Support

VA/Decatur Community-Based Outpatient Clinic

Serves veterans living in Wise, Jack, Clay, Archer, Baylor, Young, Montague and Throckmorton counties

~ 1713 S. FM 51, Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-7001 northtexas.va.gov ~

Wise Choices Pregnancy Resource Center

Provides pregnancy tests (they provide Medicaid proof of pregnancy); STD and abstinence education; abortion alternative counseling; abortion education; parenting classes; material goods including diapers, clothing, formula, baby food, infant furniture, car seats, etc.; contraceptive education; peer counseling; referrals; spiritual counseling; abortion pill reversal.

~ 604 N. Trinity, Decatur, TX 76234 mywisechoices.com 940-627-6924 ~

Wise Coalition for Healthy Children

Provides free Wise Parent Café: small, intimate settings where parents and caregivers discuss their families and parenting challenges, share ideas and learn proven parenting techniques. The coalition eets at noon the rst Thursday every other month at First United Methodist Church of Decatur, 104 S. Miller, Decatur, TX. Marsha Waters with Cook Children’s Health Care System is regional coordinator.

~ 682-885-3069 centerforchildrenshealth.org ~

Wise County Christian Counseling

Provides individual, couples and family therapy counseling services on a sliding scale basis. Jenny’s Hope is a free grief center for children and adults.

~ 1650 S. FM 51, Suite 400, Decatur, TX 76234 wiseccc.org 940-6271618 ~

Meals on Wheels, Wise County (WCCA), OWLS Activity Center

Provides programs for seniors age 60 and older. Delivers free meals to homebound senior citizens who cannot cook for themselves, help with transportation assistance. OWLS Activity Center is open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday at 1200 N. Miller St. in Decatur. Activities include bingo, crafts and educational resources. Free congregate meals are served at 11:30 a.m.) Abuelitos Unidos del Cordado de Wise (bilingual program) is 12:30-3:30 p.m. Fridays.

~ 940-627-5329

MealsOnWheelsWiseCounty.org ~

Wise Health Center Community Health Clinic

Provides a medical home in Wise County for uninsured and underinsured. Provides basic access to health care on a reduced fee/sliding scale basis.

~ 2000 S. FM 51, Suite D, Decatur, TX 76234 940-626-3888 healthywisecounty.com ~

Wise County Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Intervention, counseling, referral and education to abusers of alcohol or drugs and their families.

~ 105 S. Church, Decatur, TX 76234 940-627-3921 ~

Wise Hope Shelter and Crisis Center

Emergency safe housing, resource referrals, counseling, legal advocacy and emergency response for victims of domestic violence.

~ 608 N. Business 81/287, Decatur, TX 76234 wisehope.org 24-hour hotline 940-626-4855; Wise County Outreach Office 940-626-4585 ~

Wise Kid Care

Provides assistance to CPS in caring for abused/neglected children. Provides Christmas gifts to needy youth, as well as counseling and education services.

~ CPS Supervisor — 2000 W. Business U.S. 380, Decatur, TX 76234 940-393-7830 ~

CONTACT: Heidelberg Materials

Bridgeport Quarry

1443 S Hwy 101 • Chico, Texas 76431

Aggregate Sales 972-653-3744

About Bridgeport Quarry

In 2016 Heidelberg Materials Bridgeport quarry won the pinnacle awards for an aggregate producer. We were presented the gold award for community relations by the National Stone and Gravel association. Heidelberg Materials is an old neighbor in Bridgeport, but boasts one of the most modern and innovative aggregate operations in the country. Although the plant has been operating in Wise County since 1936, a totally new plant was completed in 2006, boosting Heidelberg’s production capability, and giving the facility a unique combination of environmental controls which sharply control dust and water pollution. The plant, located approximately three miles north of Bridgeport on State Highway 101, is looked upon as a model in the industry, and has drawn the attention of aggregate operations across the country.

Our Products

Heidelberg Materials – Bridgeport Quarry produces aggregates (crushed stone and sand) that are an essential part of our daily lives. These products are vital to a healthy, growing local and regional economy.

*They are in nearly all residential, commercial and industrial building construction and in most public works projects including roads, highways and bridges; railroad beds; dams; airports; water and sewage treatment facilities and systems; and tunnels.

In Our Community

As one of the area’s leading companies, Bridgeport Quarry is committed to its role as a leading corporate citizen.

Here are a few examples:

• TItle Sponsor for Wise County United Way Golf Tourney

• Sponsor of Eighter from Decatur Food Truck Challenge

• Sponsor of Bridgeport Chamber Skeet Shoot

• Supporter of Project Graduation events in Wise County

• Supporter of Local Booster Clubs and Youth Teams

• Active Member in several area Chambers of Commerce

• Provide educational field trips to schools in Wise County as well as in the DFW Metroplex

• Supporter of Wise County Youth Fair and Local Buyer’s Club

Economic Impact

· Bridgeport Quarry is one of the largest industrial enterprises in Wise County, employing 130 full-time workers.

· In addition to being the largest taxpayer in Wise County, comprising a signicant percentage of the county and schools operating budgets each year, Bridgeport Quarry operations pump millions of dollars into the local economy.

· Because of transportation costs, it’s important for construction aggregates to be readily available near major markets. Aggregates are most commonly used within 50 miles of their place of extraction. That means that communities near quarries benefit from lower prices on construction of homes, buildings and roads than those that need to transport aggregate from other areas.

· There are more than 10,000 aggregate quarries nationwide and 70 percent of all counties in the United States produce aggregates, according to the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association.

Wise Word Search

If you’ve been reading closely, you’ll recognize how each of the words below are c ecte t e u t ee f u ca fi eac f t e r ur Wise Word Search before you enter the home stretch of our Game of Wise. See the Wise Word Search Solution on Page 137

M F M

D T 4 1 outh y 1 1 r d e ort T

ur m ss on statement e a our com a y rea o or e te ce. t de cr e o e are a d at e do. t u ort our o a d commu cate our ur o e a d d rect o to a o our ta e o der . a ead ro der o atura re ource a ed u d mater a , art ar etta ro de t e foundation u o c our communities m ro e a d ro .

ur vi io e e de cr e our com a y a t ou d a ear a uture tate. t dr e our com a y dec o a d oa a d c a e e a d re our em oyee .

ur oa to u d a orl cl or i io comm tted to t e o term ucce o our em oyee , commu t e a d ot er ta e o der .

ur values de cr e our e e a d e a or . T ey u de our dec o ma a d e ta ta dard u o c e ca a e our act o . T ey create a mora com a our u e dea or ot t e com a y a d t em oyee . T ey u ort t e o .

• SAFETY -- We are uncompromising in our commitment to the fe e l of our people and the community.

• INTEGRITY -- We will o e ri i by adhering to our core values and ethical business principles.

• -- We are committed to being a role model through responsible i ov io co i o i rove e .

• -- Our strength and success is derived from o r eo le and the rel io i they build within our neighborhoods and cities.

• STEWARDSHIP -- Our responsibility is to e e orl be er today and for future generations.

C MM N T N M NT ere are a fe e am es

Do at o to ty ar a d ecreat o a d oca re De artme t o u a d U ted Way S o or em er o oca am er o ommerce

o ted educat o a e d tr or c oo t e area a d r t e o der or t e cou ty Do ated 110 a et or t e Se or e a ce ter at e t r d e ort

M M W M W

Index of Advertisers

1 Stop of Texas..................................125

111 Beef Republic...............................34

1810 Storage.......................................79

1860 Pizza Co......................................32

1st Choice Truck Lube, Inc..................43

4J’s Mini Storage and Rental..............17

5 Boys Restaurant...............................32

A Vintage Affair...................................31

Aamir Zuberi, MD...............................12

Adams Furniture...............................105

Agape & Associates............................61

Alvord Building Center.......................51

Alvord EDC.........................................51

Alvord Farm Supply............................51

AmeriDream Mortgage Group, LLC...55

Ary Co.................................................67

Belwave.............................................106

Best Value Renshaw Drug...................90

Bisidas Water Well Drilling..................87

Black Insurance...................................53

Blessed Bru Eatery & Coffeehouse.....32

Blessed Hands Garage........................31

Bloomoon Pet Resort..........................77

BMG Auto...........................................35

Bond Family Eye Care.........................57

Bond Father Bail Bonds......................38

Bonded By Fate Permanent Jewelry..21

Bramlett Enterprises...........................18

Brandi’s Country Kitchen....................17

Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce..100

Bridgeport EDC....................................2

Bridgeport Main Street.......................30

Bright Ideas Lighting & More...........107

Brown’s Barber Shop..........................32

Brown’s Custom Leather.....................83

Butter Bean Baking Co.......................20

Cannon Realty.....................................52

Carrillo, Sipes, & Tibbels, Attorney at Law.....................................................6

Catering by Sagebrush.......................51

atfish O arlies ...................................9

Century 21 – Joey Duncan..................97

Century 21, Sue Ann Denton............119

Chalet of Jewelry..............................101

Charis Closet.......................................21

Chico Auto Parts.................................61

Christian B. Helm, M.D.....................125

City of Bridgeport – Halsell Street.........

........................................................30-33

Classic Florist & Gifts..........................33

CLW Fitness........................................83

Cold Wave Creations....................17, 32

Cook, McDonald & Company.............33

Crazy Pablos Cantina..........................33

DATCU.................................................29

Decatur Chamber of Commerce......112

Decatur Conference Center................43

Decatur Dental..................................100

Decatur EDC...................................... 75

Decatur Eye Center............................12

Decatur Garden Center......................47

Decatur Heat and Air........................139

Decatur Lions Club..............................56

Decatur Livestock Market, LLC........134

Decatur Main Street............................19

Decatur Public Library.........................81

Decatur Self Storage...........................85

Decatur Square..............................20-21

Decatur Veterinary Clinic....................53

DFT Self Storage.................................29

Don’s AC Service, Inc........................120

Dos Chiles...........................................99

Downtown Donuts..............................51

Dr. Lynn Stucky..................................113

Duty’s Dirt...........................................56

Edge Crew Construction....................33

Edward Jones......................................57

Edward Jones – Jay Craddock............33

Epic Heart & Vascular Care.................25

Episcopal Church of the Resurrection

.............................................................85

Excellent Dental................................120

Family Clinic........................................53

Father’s House Church........................79

First Financial Bank.............................85

First Methodist Church Bridgeport..125

First National Bank........................43, 83

First National Bank Mortgage..............3

First State Bank...................................53

Fit-N-Wise...........................................38

Flusche Auto Repair Company.........125

Food Truck Checklist......................40-41

Forever Teeth....................................124

Freedom Insurance.............................83

Full Armor Fellowship.......................133

Giant Burger........................................85

Ginny’s Mini’s Self Storage..................35

Governor’s Ridge Retirement & Assisted Living..............................................112

Guardian Title Company...................107

Hairdaze Salon & Boutique.................31

Halsell Street – Bridgeport.................30

Hawkins Funeral Home.....................131

Hayhurst Brothers Homes...................32

Heidelberg Materials........................130

Hendershot...........................12, 52, 112

Herbs and More................................117

Holmes Auto Supply...........................91

Home Town Tees.................................83

Hudson & Torres Family Funeral Home.. .............................................................33

Ice House Liquor.................................51

Ideal Flooring....................................107

Integrity Land Title........................18, 21

iOffice ................................................120

James Wood – Cadillac.......................92

James Wood Decatur..........................81

Jim Lambert Construction, Inc...........90

JRobs Perfromance Training...............96

Just Like New Consignment Store...117

Justin Seed Co....................................91

Karl Klement......................................124

Karl Klement Properties......................13

Kenepela’s Kitchen..............................96

Ken’s Appliances.................................79

Kwik Kar..............................................56

Landmark..........................................100

Legend Bank.....................................133

Legend Bank, Alvord..........................51

Little Byrdies Gifts & Children’s Boutique .............................................................21

Little Caesars......................................91

Locality Craft Cocktail Bar..................33

Lowe’s Supermarkets..................51, 101

Lowery Wholesale, LLC.......................83

Main Street Antique Mall....................21

Making the Cut Salon & Gifts.............51

Mann Refrigeration.............................93

Marker Cellars Winery..................32, 39

Martin Marietta.................................135

Mary Kay – Laura M Shaffer..............101

McLaughlin Supply..............................57

McMaster New Holland....................131

Meals on Wheels – Wise County........21

Midwestern State University.................7

Moncrief Cancer Institute...................97

Nanna Anna’s Antique Store...............38

North Texas Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation.................................134

NRS Ranch...........................................26

Nueva Era Taqueria.............................18

Outlaw Renovations............................38

Over the Hill RV Park..........................83

OWLS Senior Center...........................21

Paradise Donuts..................................83

Paradise EDC......................................83

Paradise Historical Society..................83

Paradise Nutrition & Energy...............83

Paradise Stone....................................83

Parker Electric.......................................4

Parker Properties..........................21, 99

Patti’s Hair Parlor................................56

Pinnacle Bank......................................27

Precision Construction......................116

Premier Cardiology Care....................69

PrimeWest Mortgage..........................29

Pronto’s Italian Restaurant & Pizza.....96

Reeves Automotive...........................124

ReMax - Danny Hodges......................51

Rising Star Ranch................................50

Ritzy B’s Smokehouse & Grill..............17

Room and Board Checklist.................46

Rooster’s Roadhouse..........................20

Rosenbaum Dental..............................81

Rotary Club of Decatur.......................13

Runaway Bay Golf Club & Resort.....134

S&J Pharmacy...................................101

addle p rossfit ............................106

Salt Logix Technologies......................17

SDC Fine Arts Academy...................117

Sendera Title.......................................39

Serendipity Off 730.............................25

Serenity Oasis Salon...........................83

Sewell & Forbis...................................21

Shelly Sessums Tax Service...............131

Silhouette Dance Company................79

Simpson & Tuegel...............................45

Skin & Body Works Spa.......................85

Skinny’s Repair Shop.............................9

Solaris Healthcare.............................121

Splash & Dash Express Car Wash.....138

Stagecoach Energy & Nutrition..........32

State Farm – Cary Bohn....................101

State Farm – David Correll.................33

Stephens, Bastian & Cartwright, L.P. Insurance..........................................56

Studio 1903.........................................38

Sue Swint Realty....................................4

Superior Lawn & Landscape...............63

Tarrant Regional Water District..........87

Taylor Septic & Dozer Service...........121

Taylor Septic and Pumping Service.....27

Texas Farm Bureau Insurance, Lisa Bryant...............................................33

TF Vineyard & Winery.........................13

The Community Bank............................7

The Hope Chest..................................32

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute.......................................70-71

The Roof Guy....................................117

The Tire Outlet....................................81

Title Resources..................................117

Tomie Fox Real Estate Group...........138

Total Plumbing Solutions....................43

Trees Inc............................................125

Trinity Lutheran Church.......................25

Trinity Street Coffee Bar.....................21

United Way..........................................77

Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation ...........................................................133

Victory Christian Academy..................13

Victory Church.....................................27

Victory In Christ Lutheran Church.......61

Vincent Wealth Management Group..77

Wallace Plumbing................................93

Warren Insurance................................51

Watergate Irrigation...........................99 Weatherford College.....................22-23

Wild West Remuda..............................38

Willett Barbeque & Catering..............51

Wise & Jack Counties Catholic Communities....................................43

Wise Ballet & Music Academy............35

Wise Choices Pregnancy Resources...92

Wise County Chamber of Commerce..... .............................................................87

Wise County Committee on Aging......... .........................................................9, 21

Wise County Democratic Party.............7

Wise County Elections........................93

Wise County Messenger...................106

Wise County Republican Party.........121

Wise County Title Company.................5

Wise Electric Cooperative..................53

Wise Family Practice Urgent Care......42

Wise Health Clinics........24, Back Cover

Wise Health Foundation – Mary’s Gift.... .............................................................90

Wise Obstetrics & Gynecology, PA....52

Wise Payments....................................79

Xtreme Make Over.............................51 Yesterday’s Diner................................13

Yong’s Korean

Wise Word Search Solution

New Patients

Services include:

• nnual Well Woman E ams

• Complete Pre and Postnatal Care

• High Ris Obstetrics

• Family Planning & Contraception

• Infertility Consultation

• Gynecology Surgery

• S D esting & reatment

• Sterili ation

• reatment for General Gynecology Problems

• Minimally Invasive Surgery

• nd more