Granbury Showcase Magazine

Granbury’s 2012 Harvest Moon Festival

Cool weather, an early evening and a huge harvest moon usher in “A Celebration of the Season!” Arts and crafts, fall produce, entertainment, a kids’ amusement area and delicious food makes Granbury’s Harvest Moon Festival a must for families and friends.

The festivities are on Saturday, October 27th from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the Historic Courthouse Square and from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, October 28th. Admission is FREE.

Enjoy the Scarecrow Decorating Contest, Decorated Pumpkin Contest (all entries will be displayed all day), Kids in Costumes Contest (children under 10 years of age) and a Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest. Dad and Grandpa don’t want to miss the Antique Engine and Tractor Show in Lambert Branch Park and the Antique Tractor Parade at noon on Saturday around the Square.

Special entertainment by local entertainers will be held on our stage with performances on both Saturday and Sunday. The Hot Dog Eating Contest creates fun for the entire family on Sunday afternoon.

People of all ages will enjoy Sunday afternoon and the ever-popular “Pooch Parade.” Pooches, dressed in costumes, do crazy tricks and parade around on Crockett Street.

Join in the fun and make it a Granbury weekend to relax, be entertained, and enjoy great food and shop. The Historic Granbury Merchants Association, the City of Granbury and Hood County sponsor the Harvest Moon Festival. For more information, call HGMA at 817.573.5299 or visit www.granburysquare.com

Harvest Moon Festival

Fall Festival of Art

Fall in Love with Art

A unique event showcasing members’ artwork in various mediums, showcases artists and art-lovers to Granbury’s Shanley House. The annual Fall Festival of Art Juried Show & Sale runs from October 6th – 28th. The public is also invited to a reception on the 13th at 6:30 p.m. at the Shanley House located at 224 N. Travis in Granbury when the awards will be announced.

The Lake Granbury Art Association began 40 years ago and now hosts over a hundred members. Unique shows open often. The gallery is open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The Shanley House, estimated to have been built by 1886 and very possibly as early as the 1870s, was originally constructed as a gristmill. Known as the Granite Mills, its original proprietor, J. N. Haney, also built the Hood County Jail in 1885.

LGAA’s mission is to promote the education, appreciation and enjoyment of fine art in Granbury. For more information visit www.granburyart.org.

Art on the Paluxy

Glen Rose’s Artist-in-Residence, Robert Summers, and a small, select group of local and regional artists will showcase their talent at the historic Barnard’s Mill and Art Museum in Glen Rose on November 10th. The Somervell History Foundation (SHF) presents the 5th Annual Art on the Paluxy—an art show and sale. This unique event features promising area artists, including Granbury artists.

All the artists will be in attendance, and some will be working. This is a fabulous opportunity to learn about new artists, visit with them, discuss their art and perhaps acquire something for your home. Artists are purposely selected who display a variety of mediums and styles, along with artists specializing in pottery, sculpture or jewelry. Enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The Somervell History Foundation’s primary focus is its unique responsibility in restoring and preserving Barnard’s Mill and Art Museum. Completed in 1860, the Historic Barnard’s Mill was the first permanent structure in the area. The newest part, completed about sixty years ago, is now owned and operated by the SHF and contains Barnard’s Mill and Art Museum. The Mill has been on the State Register of Historical Places for over twenty years and in 1982 was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to the priority of the restoration of Barnard’s Mill, the SHF focuses on improving the offerings to the community for art appreciation.

Attendance is $10 per person and free to SHF members. Barnard’s Mill is located at 307 SW Barnard Street, Glen Rose.

Shopping with Dana – Granbury Gold

Dana Vollmer spent her youth getting up before dawn to swim, to train, to reach gold. At twelve while her friends attended parties and shopped, Dana was at the Olympic trial, and at 16 she stood on the Olympic stage and received her first two medals for the USA. Then after eight years of hard work, leading the USA Swim Team to Olympic Gold and setting new world records, Dana came home to do some of those things she didn’t get to do as a teenage—like shop with mom. Shopping on the Granbury Square is always fun; however shopping with an Olympian Gold Medal Champion is extra-special.

Creek Boutique – We began our Granbury Gold Shopping Spree at Caylor Creek Boutique, tucked into the east side of Granbury Square Plaza. This store offers a combination of California trends and a touch of the south—perfect for Dana. She fell in love with a pair of boots and looked at the high fashion jeans, blouses and handbags–all excellent brands. While Dana tried on more tops and dresses, I checked out Caylor Creek Boutique one-of-a-kind jewelry by local artists and found a perfect pair. Currently open seven days a week at 201 E. Pearl Street. 817.579.5444. Follow on Facebook at Caylor Creek~Granbury.

As we left, I knew two things: Dana’s legs are much longer, younger and faster than mine and the girl can shop!

The Texas Sampler – Marty Vandaveer welcomed Dana with a huge gift-basket full of all kinds of spices and dips. The Sampler says TEXAS. Quick and easy products with quality taste at your shopping leisure in any season and any temperature. Dana’s eyes lit up as she discovered the gluten-free products. Every party should have some. The Texas Sampler is located on the west side of the Granbury Square Plaza, off of Crockett Street 817.573.3486 www.TexasSamplerFoods.com

Rio Grande Boutique – Color pops in the Rio Grande boutique this year– bright and varied. Dana saw a dress the minute we walked into the store. Like most Texas-raised girls, she looked at the sale rack first and found a darling dress, but the one by the front door called her name. Rio Grande offers many styles by top designers. The top of the top, Joseph Ribkoff, designs for Miss America. When Dana tried on the first dress, her dad, mom and I all sighed, “Wow!” Joseph Ribcoff wins the gold with design. Rio Grande Boutique is located at 111 E. Pearl Street. 817.579.0089

RED on the Square – Owner Vicki and Scott Young met Dana and family as we walked in the door. Red offers high-end fashion at affordable prices in fine clothing for women and children. Dana and her mom browsed through women’s fashions, Lee Andersen clothing and Mary Francis designer bags. Dana’s dad, big brother, Nick, and Hendricks, her best friend’s baby, enjoyed RED boutique lines of infant/toddler toys. Located in the Red bank building at 101 Pearl Street on the southwest corner of the Square, Red has its own parking area. 817.573.3300

Artèfactz – Owner Cynthia James, a long-time art friend of Dana’s grandmother, stayed open a little late just for Dana. Artèfactz is a shoppe of creative expression, located on the downtown Granbury Square, it carries unique, nature-inspired, artisan-created products. Purses, backpacks, yarns and t-shirts of all kinds, including Old Guys Rule, make Artefactz a plethora of artistic diversity. Hand-blown art glass balls, in a beautiful mix of colors, along with a wide range of accessories, are just some of the unique merchandise offerings. Dana and her mom left the shop with some beautiful earrings handmade by Cynthia James. Visit www.artefactz.com. 817.573.9446Market on the Square – Owner Melba White watched for Dana from the doorway of her inspiring shop. With ten vendors, it offers ladies clothes, purses, jewelry and other accessories. Handcrafted furniture and wooden gift items and a Christmas room open all year lured her to browse. However the Kenyan Korner, with all proceeds going to the Open Arms Village which is an orphanage for homeless children, caught Dana’s heart. She couldn’t leave without a pair of candleholders with elephant carvings. “It’s a family thing,” Dana explained. In the Vollmer family an elephant symbolizes the love they have for each other, a love that’s never forgotten. Market on the Square is located at 112 N. Houston 817.573.6161

Stuff ‘N’ Nonsense Boutique – Owner, Becky Barton met us as we walked up the steps of the shop. Dana glanced through all the wonderful fall vest and jackets, perfect for California where she lives with her husband, Andy. The great selections of fashion jewelry, watches, scarves, ponchos, and wraps caught her eye–especially the watches. Unique tops to wrap and turn to a completely different style are a favorite. Stuff ‘n” Nonsense Boutique is located at 113 W Bridge St. or call 817.573.9060.

Joe’s Pasta – Dana’s family and friends met us at Joe’s and the wait-staff jumped into service—but they greet everyone that way, even if you’re not a famous gold medal champion. Then owner, Cutter Thompson, served up our favorite, fine Italian cuisine. Dana credits her new gluten free regiment and training in the ocean for the world records she set in the 2012 Olympics. Items like Chicken Diana, Salmon Napolitano served with mixed vegetables or steak, shrimp and fish with palate-pleasing sauces make Joe’s the perfect place for those allergic to gluten products. Joe’s stromboli and pizza are the best this side of New Jersey. Joe’s Pasta and Pizza is located at 512 W. Pearl Street in Granbury visit www.joesingranbury.com or call 817.579.JOES (5637).

Mia Bella Spa – When Dana and I met Michelle at Mia Bella Spa, I listened to the two of them talk about hands-on massage therapy and realized the health reasons for massages. Mia Bella Spa offers massage therapy treatment with full-body massage treatments that are enhanced with scented aromatherapy oils, and hot towels to provide a total-body relaxation experience. Their Deep-Tissue Massage/ Sports Massage stimulates circulation, relieve muscle tension and are great for staying flexible and limber during sporting events. Mia Bella Spa can help us all feel better and be healthier, even if we aren’t competing in the Olympics. Located in the southeast area of the Granbury Square Plaza. Call 682.936.7216 for more information.

Cactus Flower, on the west side of Granbury’s Square, showcases many beautiful jackets, contemporary tops, scarves and matching pants. Rita Scott welcomed Dana and I with her warm smile and friendly help. Cactus Flower carries exquisite designs that flatter all figures—Dana’s tall, trim lines and my…fluffy figure. Sterling Indian jewelry, plus a great line of high quality fashion jewelry, unique home décor, pillows, throws, pottery, dinner wear and genuine, bone-handle flatware all caught Dana’s eye. Visit 104 N. Houston Street or call 817.573.7725.

Doug’s Sports House – Doug Knippa, owner of Doug’s Sports House on the east side of the Square in Granbury may have enjoyed Dana’s shopping spree almost as much as I did. The Sports Shop offers everything for the sports fan, although he didn’t have any Cal State (Dana’s college) memorabilia. How can that be? But when Dana asked about Dallas Cowboy items, Doug quickly showed us his wide selection. Dana especially liked the “pillow pet-by night/football by day” in the Dallas Cowboy mascot. I tried to talk her into a Texas Tech hoody with just the right amount of sparkle. Doug’s Sports House offers a large assortment of gifts for men and it’s located at 120 N. Crockett Street. 682.936.2729.

D’Vine Wine – I planned a surprise for Dana at D’Vine Wine, a special label, personalized titled Dana’s Gold with pictures of Dana at the Olympics and with her husband and her at their wedding. She picked the type of wine from their vast supply. We enjoyed a wine tasting and special music. Joshua Winters, one of the owners of D’Vine Wine (along with Tony and Diane Hedges), discussed family connections and then explained how to make your own wine, bottle it and create your very own personalized labels. Dana signed autographs and wished people in the shop a happy birthday. Located on the north side of the Historic Granbury Square. 817.573.7200 www.dvinewineusa.com

Agave Tamale Company – The Agave girls met Dana and I for an afternoon tamale–uniquely made, hand rolled, lard free, gluten free and msg free. Long-time friends with Dana and her family, Susan Miller greeted her with a gold-medal hug. They are comfort food—not like any tamale I’ve ever had. We decided these should be called Agave quiche or pies or just yummies–and the girls cook up the best black beans ever with feta cheese on top. Dine in or take out. Agave Tamale Company caters events or can be mailed to friends and family. Located one block west of the Square at 106 N. Lambert Street. Call 817.579.7600 for more information.

agave tamale, Artefactz, cactus flower, Caylor Creek Boutique, d'vine Wine, Dana Vollmer, Doug's Sports House, Granbury Square, Joes Pasta, market on the square, Mia Bella Spa, Red on the Square, Rio Grande Boutique, Stuff'n'nonsense, Texas Sampler

Gala Gatherings

Party on the Peak 2012

the panoramic views of the North Texas prairie from the high vista of Comanche Peak on October 6th. Embark on a rare tour to visit Historic Comanche Peak where original Texans—native and pioneers both once roamed.

The journey to the past begins at 4:00 p.m. at 4401 Peak Road in Granbury, giving the guests time to soak up the rich history of the Peak. Relax with cocktails atop the peak. Enjoy casual entertainment, art displays, historical interpretations, and chuck-wagon cooking demonstrations.

Savor a delicious one-of-a kind dinner prepared by Granbury’s own Homer Robertson, National Cowboy Champion Chuck-wagon Cook. Join in the silent-auction and live-auction, bidding on exciting items and packages. Dance under the big Texas stars to the music of Tommy Hooker.

Funds raised through Party on the Peak will be used for Preserve Granbury projects. Current projects include a cooperative venture with the City of Granbury to restore and open the historic buildings at Lambert Branch Park and the establishment of a preservation “revolving fund” to save endangered historic buildings. Last year, more than 400 guests raised $37,778 for historic preservation projects in Hood County. For more information, call 817.573.2787.

Taste of Granbury 2012

The 11th Annual Taste of Granbury gala brings elegance on the moonlit water of Lake Granbury. On October 18th from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. the culinary journey begins and includes the following eateries and their fine chefs: Del Norte Tacos, The Loft, Harbor Lakes Golf Club, Riverhouse Grill, Buffalo Gap, Lake Granbury Medical Center, Pearl Street Station and HEB.

The evening’s ambiance continues with a wine tasting and excellent entertainment. A raffle and live auction, with good-humor-bidding on unique items and outstanding value, benefits Granbury’s US Veteran’s Museum, Project Graduation and other community non-profits.

Taste of Granbury 2012, hosted by the Granbury Brigade promises to be even better than last year’s. The Brigade organizes the event and brings local chefs and their delectable cuisine to the Granbury Conference Center. Brigade members sell tickets, serve as waitstaff, decorate tables, plus secure door prizes and amazing auction items so guests can take home unique prizes.

Tickets sell out fast, so don’t wait. For more information contact Sylvia Hickey at 817.326.5565.

Think Pink! - Fashions for the Fighters, the Survivors and Hope

Join in a night of celebration supporting the FIGHTERS, admiring the SURVIVORS and HONORING those taken. Plus the Pink Ribbon Fashion Show offers a night to remind us to never, ever give up HOPE!

Red on the Square and Stuff ‘N’ Nonsense Boutique present their “Annual Pink Ribbon Fashion Show” with wonderful giveaways, delicious tastings and a showcase of new fall-fashion.

Don’t miss this special event with a few delightful surprises! Pick up your tickets at Stuff ‘N’ Nonsense Boutique or Red on the Square.

Commanche Peak, Granbury Brigade, Granbury Conference Center, Project Graduation, Red on the Square, Stuff'n'nonsense, Taste of Granbury

From the Editor – October 2012

October 4th, 2012 | Posted by PrintOne in From the Editor | Showcase Articles - (0 Comments)

Autumn cool–I love it–a promise of transformation. Green turns to yellow-gold and then orange to red–old growth giving way to new. Leaves turn shades of red, flutter down and cover grass, once green, now washed to beige.
My neighborhood changes too. Fawns growing into long-legged bucks and does. Their spots fade and they romp in the crisp-cool evenings like teenagers on a Friday night. The herd dances through the pecan trees and leap across winding roads.

In the fall, fashions evolve from summer white into earth tones, wrapping around us to warm our spirits. My city is changing too. Wonderful shops–transfigured with vibrant colors of the season.

Recently I peeked in the Opera House window. The site caught my breath. Like a huge gaping wound, it stood void of its beauty. The ghosts haunting the historic building seemed to flutter through the gutted building. But there’s no mournful sound. It’s a song I hear—joyful and whispering of the glory to come. On the eastside of Granbury’s Square, the old Granbury Live building has an amazing new look. It has been transformed into a huge stage with intimate, theater seating. You have to see it for yourself. Maybe I should say, “You have to hear it for yourself,” because the sound is phenomenal.

I only watched part of a dress rehearsal for The Secret Garden. It was enough to make me know I don’t want to miss this classic musical. The old stage that the legendary Tom McRea built has been extended to double its size. The center rows, from the fifth row back, have been removed, pulling the audience into the stage area. As a fan who refused to sit in what I called, “the hole,” I stood in amazement at the changes. Every seat now offers a perfect view. How did they think of this?

Scott Young, president of the Historic Merchants Association, explained it like this: “Most of us try to think outside the box. Andrew doesn’t have a box!” I so agree! Andrew Barrus may be one of the most creative people I’ve ever met. However he also has a business-savvy. He’s a dedicated, detail person that seems to center him in the task at hand. Drawing plans for stage and sets, designing, planning and building a community of caring people to support the arts.

My shopping/photo shoot with Dana Vollmer was a treat for me. This is an exceptional young woman. Dana has become an icon for Granbury, Texas and the U.S.A. Her mark on the swimming world has placed a pointer on the world map—annotating Texas, Hood County and Granbury as a place that raises up champions. In November Hood County has an opportunity to set excellence as a goal and provide young swimmers with the tools to accomplish their goals. How many more champions can we build with an Olympic-size-pool where our youth can train? Don’t forget to vote for the future.n opportunity to set excellence as a goal and provide young swimmers with the tools to accomplish their goals. How many m

Voting has never been more important in our nation. We have a clear choice between candidates on all levels and choices between issues. Read, study and listen. Know before you vote. I also would ask each of you to vote your values, not a party.

Fall Festival happens at the end of the month, ushering in the holiday seasons. Willow and Reagan, the magazine-article-writing cats, can’t join in the Bow Wow Trick or Treat, but you can. Cool weather, cool shops, cool new restaurants and wonderful musicals, our annual local star-search every Thursday night at Shanley Park, murder-mystery theater and live shows…it doesn’t get any better than this.

Enjoy!

Waterview – Premiere Lakefront Retirement Living

August 2nd, 2012 | Posted by PrintOne in Showcase Articles - (0 Comments)

Waterview is Granbury’s most elegant option for full-service senior retirement living on the lake.

Independent Living at The Point offers active seniors the chance to live their retirement years to the fullest, while eliminating thehassles and often unanticipated expenses of home maintenance.

According to General Manager Mitchell George, “Residents appreciate having no more worries about plumbing problems, roof leaks or dealing with rising energy costs, they value how Waterview maintains the community, including their beautiful apartment home, so that they can relax and enjoy life”. Many daily social activities are available for our residents, including: fishing on the lake, boating and water sports, parties and happy hours, wellness activities, movies at our on-site movie theater, and events at our clubhouse with heated pool and hot tub.

The Cove

Assisted Living at The Cove offers so much for an individual or family seeking a community with serenity, safety, and expertise in senior care. While providing exceptional amenities, The Cove also works with residents and their families to design a plan of care to meet your individual care needs. “We dedicate ourselves at the Cove to place the resident first and to partner with their families to provide the best individual care possible,” as stated by Karen Jennings, Executive Director for the Cove.

The Cove residents benefit from a rich package of amenities including three nutritious meals per day prepared by the facility’s own chef, laundry facilities, all utilities except telephone, weekly housekeeping, customized care plans designed by a nurse, 24-hour emergency call systems, apartment maintenance, scheduled transportation, activities and outings, wellness and exercise programs, use of all common areas, and more. Activities are designed around the resident’s interests, including exercise programs, knitting, bible study, local outings and book clubs.

The Cove also offers a certified state-of-the-art memory care community. It has been designed based upon cutting-edge research regarding how to better accommodate the daily living activity challenges faced by memory-impaired individuals. It is located in a separate, distinct, secure neighborhood with loving associates dedicated to providing a safe, stimulating, and therapeutic environment.

Vista’s Edge

Custom-built waterfront homes at Vista’s Edge at Waterview are designed with impeccable taste and exquisite details, featuring: detailed molding, built-in bookcases, state-of-the-art kitchens, energy efficient appliances and construction, interior and exterior fireplaces, beautiful patios overlooking Lake Granbury. Many offer boat docks. With access to all of Waterview’s retirement amenities, the Vista’s Edge is ideal for adults over 55 who desire their independence and prefer a low maintenance, custom-built home.

At Waterview, the residents can age in place gracefully in a full-service community, choosing from custom built lakefront homes, independent living, assisted living, or memory care neighborhoods, depending on their needs. Residents can enjoy a helping hand if they need it while enjoying life on the lake. With full-time lifestyle directors, wellness directors and on-site professional chefs, Waterview has everything you need and everything you want, right here on site. “My commitment along with the associates at Waterview is to provide the strongest level of support as you plan this new phase of living and we look forward to a healthy, long relationship with you.” – Mitchell George, General Manager.

Waterview is located at 100 and 101 Watermark Blvd. near downtown Granbury. For more information visit their website www.WaterviewLife.com or call 817.573.3434.

Cool Entertainment

Mary Lou’s

Dinner Palace Theatre

Theatre cools off the Square with stars like Andrew Barrus. Riding a wave of excellent reviews from Granbury Theatre Company’s production of 1776, Andrew turns his talent to producing and directing the Murder Mystery Dinners at Mary Lou’s. Granbury Nutt House Players present the Murder Mystery A Deadly Game on August 11th and 25th. Visit the website for information on the Gospel Jubilee music show at the Nutt House Hotel or call 817.279.1207. For only $42 each you will enjoy a great three course dinner from Joe’s Pasta and a great show. BYOB.

Glen Rose Bluegrass Jam

Free bluegrass jam sessions at beautiful Historic Oakdale Park in Glen Rose. All levels of musicians are invited to attend from beginner to old pros. Bring your lawn chairs let the kids swim and have a great family day enjoying the music. Free to the public. The jam begins at 12:00 noon and continues until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday August 18th. For more info visit www.glenrosebluegrass.com.

Labor Day Weekend

Granbury

Warriors for Christ Biker Bash roars into town September 1st at 10:00 a.m. to September 3rd at 5:00 p.m. Come enjoy the Warriors for Christ Biker Bash over the Labor Day weekend. Expect lots a fun, arts and craft vendors, food vendors and many more activities. For more information please call David or Lisa Kimbrow at 817.964.5492.

Labor Day Weekend

Glen Rose

“Light Up the Town” 5k Fun Run / Walk begins September 1st with a 9 a.m. start time and benefits “Light up the Town” (Glen Rose’s Christmas Celebration). Prizes for: Most Creative Outfit, Brightest Outfit and Best Team Outfit/Uniform. Participants in bright neon gear will have the edge in this contest. Cost is $15 Pre-registration and $25 Day of Event entry fee. This event offers a 3.1 miles – fun run / walk. Register at www.glenrosetexas.net or call 254.897.3081.

Historic Square Sidewalk Sale from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Special Discounts offered at many stores. Prize drawings for shopping and children activities highlight the day. Visit www.historicdowntownglenrose.org for more information.

1st Annual Labor Day Hollywood and Vine’s got Talent – Have a fabulous meal with food and drink specials, and enjoy a talent-filled day. Free admission. Restaurant Hours: 11a.m. to midnight. Scheduled performers begin at 2:00 p.m. with Kim Younkin. Then at 5:00 p.m., Three Rivers Shine takes the stage. Brad Hulsey Band begins at 8:00 p.m. Don’t miss the Hot Dog Eating Contest. To enter call 214.770.5465. Deadline 6 p.m. on August 25th. www.hollywoodandvinerestaurant.com

From the Editor – August 2012

August 2nd, 2012 | Posted by PrintOne in From the Editor | Showcase Articles - (0 Comments)

Sights and scenes of the “magic valley” expressed in the photos of our readers often describe this land between the rivers far better than words. Some have suggested my term “magic valley” overstates. However, I think it all depends on what the word “magic” means to you. If you like your magic flashy, July 4th and Christmas flash here in a big way; if magic means to you a quiet retreat where peace washes over your soul like waves on a sunlit beach; if magic is the green growth feeding life with God’s love, then this is the magic valley for you, too.

I spent a great deal of my summer on family business and drove my kids and grandchildren to many communities over several states for fun and emergencies. Like Dorothy in Oz I can tell you there’s no place like the magic valley.

My grandson took me camping in the mountains of New Mexico. I admit the mountain temperature is difficult to compete with, but my remote-controlled bed verses an air mattress on rocky cold ground wins after one night. Give me green valleys, cool breezes over sparkling water. Others can keep the hot concrete and crowded hotels of the city, where you are a number, not the Freemans. That is definitely not magical.

Even the language here is simple. An example is the night I pulled up to Gexa Pavilion in Dallas to let my daughter, granddaughter and friend out for a boy-band concert. The parking attendant said: “Big time rush.” I said, “No, I’m not in a hurry at all.” He laughed. My granddaughter said, “Nana! That’s the group playing.” I think Elvis has left the building and living somewhere in Granbury or Glen Rose.

I am clicking my ruby-red heels together and shouting there’s no place like home in the magic valley. It’s a virtual vacation.

Last month we celebrated the National Day of the Cowboy for the first time ever in Hood County. I’m so proud to have nominated one of the best cowboys ever–Larry Avery. He puts his talent on the line with his faith everyday and his neighbors are rewarded.

Thanks to David and Kay Moore and Boots Hubbard for their work on this event and the Rio Brazos Music Hall for hosting it. Kay Moore pulled together information and planned the entire Day of the Cowboy event in less than a week. We are blessed to have people like Kay supporting our community. Last month due to a misunderstanding, Kay’s article mentioned Mason Mayne, having been inducted into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. Although he wasn’t in that noted group, many thought he should have been. Also in Kay’s article Cissy’s husband is listed as David and that should be Don. Mayne’s death was in 1997.

There is no telling what events and great times will happen in August that hasn’t even been planned yet. As you look to the end of summer, don’t forget the fun things to do in Granbury and Glen Rose. You and your family will love the Labor Day weekend events. I don’t understand how there’s always a new innovative happening here. It’s magic!

Peggy

A Celebration of Life Gala

August 2nd, 2012 | Posted by PrintOne in Showcase Articles - (0 Comments)

The door slowly opened and a young woman tentatively looked in before she entered.

“Come in,” a friendly volunteer called out to her.

The young woman walked through the door at The Brazos Pregnancy Clinic (BPC) and looked around, her eyes large and luminous.

“Can I help you?” the volunteer asked.

A long pause and then a voice, shaking with emotion whispered, “I think I’m pregnant, and I have no one to help me!” Her expression mirrored her pain.

Many are broken, many unsure of what their future holds. Fear tries to hold them back from making healthy decisions and choices. Friends at Brazos Pregnancy Clinic wait to help here. Every day Hood County families face similar unexpected struggles. The Brazos Pregnancy Clinic is a non-profit organization ministering to women and families confronted with unplanned pregnancies. Its purpose is to aid hurting women and families through lay counseling and support services while being an advocate for the unborn child.

Over the past few years, the number of families served at BPC tripled. Free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds and parenting classes all are a part of their weekly agenda. Almost daily, volunteers and staff supply emergency needs such as diapers, formula and clothing. The new employment placement program offers assistance and direction for the men involved with these families.

The SOZO Program, a group of young people who have made the decision to save sex for marriage, provides teens with positive, factual, and up-to-date information and encouragement to help them make healthy lifestyle choices. It reached over 2,500 students during the 2011-12 school year. One teacher wrote, “Excellent information offered at the right level. Material is right on for 7th graders. Activities and topics related to their lives.”

Everyone can help with this loving facility. You can pray, volunteer and donate. The rewards are great. Not only do you save a life and enrich a family in a time of need, you can also make lifelong friends. The annual BPC Gala is the first social outing of the fall season and has become known as the place to be for fun, great auction items and entertainment. Sean Mitchell from The DFW All-Stars (formerly of Granbury Live) is back by popular demand to entertain this year and he does entertain. If you have never heard Sean, you are in for an amazing treat. Sean has performed all over the world.

The gala needs to make $10-15K more this year than ever. All donations are appreciated. BPC personifies the heart of Granbury—people enjoying life—a life of purpose. Not just another gala but a good time that lends a helping hand. Join in as BPC offers help and privacy to happy clients. Also BPC is offering bible studies that include mom, beautiful babies and blessed volunteers.

For sponsorship and/or tickets to the Annual Gala, please visit
www.brazospregnancyclinic.com or call BPC at 817.579.1233 or Gala Chair, Julia Pannell at 817.308.7427.

Way Out Wineries – Summertime Cook-Off Road Trip

May 30th, 2012 | Posted by PrintOne in Event | Showcase Articles - (0 Comments)

Eleven boutiques family-owned wineries invite travelers to crown the culinary star of the Way Out Wineries. The weekend of June 22nd – 24th your ticket will allow you to visit all eleven wineries for complimentary wine tasting and also to sample the Chef’s Choice Dish paired with the winery’s selected wine. At your first stop you will receive a souvenir wine tasting glass and at your last stop you can vote for your favorite winery dish. A coveted, fabulous trophy will be awarded along with year-long bragging rights for the winner. (Some wineries are known to bribe for votes!)

This year’s Road Trip will be the best ever with four new wineries in the Way Outs. Participating wineries are: Alamosa Wine Cellars, Bend; Barking Rocks Winery, Granbury; Bluff Dale Vineyards, Bluff Dale; Brennan Vineyards, Comanche; Fiesta Winery, Bend (NEW); Lost Oak Winery, Burleson (NEW); Pillar Bluff Vineyards, Lampasas; Rising Star Vineyard, Rising Star; San Saba Wine Cellars, San Saba (NEW); Sunset Winery, Burleson (NEW); Texas Legato Vineyards, Lampasas.

All road trips are self-directed driving tours. Ticket holders will be asked to select which winery they would like to visit first so they can pick up their souvenir glass. New winery maps will include the new winery locations.

The Way Out Wineries self-guided tours are available June 22nd – 24th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $20 each person and may be purchased by PayPal or credit card.

The Way Out Wineries, a collection of small, boutique wineries in the heart of Texas, has upped the WOW Factor by adding four new wineries to their group. Expanding the scope of the wine trail, the group now includes Sunset Winery and Lost Oak Winery near Burleson; San Saba Wine Cellars, a new winery in San Saba; and Fiesta Winery near Bend, Texas. The trail now boasts eleven wineries, all family-owned and operated, with great proximity to the Metroplex and to the Texas Hill Country.

Travelers enjoy meeting the owners and winemakers at these small wineries and find that each winery has its own unique charm. Drive through the beautiful countryside and quaint country towns in the area. Four seasonal Road Trips during the year are great opportunities to visit the wineries during a special event. Early spring is time for the Mardi Gras Road Trip when the Way Out Wineries celebrate with Texas wine and Cajun dishes. The Wildflower Road Trip in April is very popular for the great country vistas covered with wildflowers and the wine and pasta served at each winery. June is time for the annual Summertime Cook-Off Road Trip when winery chefs (winemakers) pull out all the stops to win the votes of ticket-holders and get the “coveted, fabulous, trophy” and bragging rights for a year. The Holiday Road Trip in early December pairs holiday goodies with wine and each ticket-holder receives the winery’s special ornament.

The Way Out Wineries are open every weekend and some are open during the week as well so a Road Trip is possible any time. Visit www.wayoutwineries.org for details on each winery and each WOW event. For more information email karenj@alamosawinecellars.com or call Karen Johnson at 512-565-2718. Or email Tiberia@barkingrockswine.com

Alamosa Wine Cellars, Bend (NEW); Lost Oak Winery, Bend; Barking Rocks Winery, Bluff Dale; Brennan Vineyards, Burleson (NEW); Pillar Bluff Vineyards, Burleson (NEW); Texas Legato Vineyards, Comanche; Fiesta Winery, Granbury; Bluff Dale Vineyards, Lampasas, Lampasas; Rising Star Vineyard, Rising Star; San Saba Wine Cellars, San Saba; Sunset Winery, Winery