MAYOR CLEARS RUMORS – In a council meeting packed with supporters of Bridgeport Main Street and Area Chamber of Commerce, Mayor Keith McComis yesterday clarified that the city had no intention of cutting either program by placing them on the agenda. His intents, he said were to devise a set budget on which to run the city’s visitors center, operated by the Chamber, in place of the current modality where the Chamber receives 25 percent of the hotel occupancy tax dollars generated in that fiscal year. “It’s hard to sit down and figure out how you’re going to spend your money if you don’t know what you’re getting,” he said. As far as the Main Street program, McComis said he was aiming to resurrect a program that has “seemed to have stalled and is a little bit stale.” “We need some definitions on what we’re giving money for – what is a facade? etc.,” he said. “All we’re trying to do is get more participation” and connect downtown merchants with the resources available through the city Main Street Manager Amber Fogelman.

HELP FOR TORNADO VICTIMS – Wise County residents searching for ways to help the victims of Monday’s tornadoes in Oklahoma have several options. News 9 Headquarters is accepting gloves, masks, toiletries, clothes and blankets (and other items) via mail to 7401 N. Kelley Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73111. Text FOOD to 32333 to donate $10 in storm relief. Text RED CROSS to 90999 to donate $10. To donate via phone, call 1-800-RED-CROS (1-800-733-2767). Make sure to donate to “Disaster Relief.” To donate online, visit www.RedCross.org. Again, make sure to donate to “Disaster Relief.” The Salvation Army is also providing assistance. Text STORM to 80888 to donate $10. To donate online, visit www.salvationarmyokcac.org. To donate online to Feed the Children, visit www.feedthechildren.org/disaster. To donate to the Oklahoma Southern Baptist Disaster Help, visit www.okdisasterhelp.com. Renewal Fellowship Church in Boyd will be collecting items for the relief effort through Friday to be delivered Saturday. Items most needed at this time are bottled water, sports drinks, personal care items, work gloves, wet wipes, diapers and pre-packaged food items. More information is posted on the church’s Facebook page at Renewal Fellowship Church or at www.renewalfellowship.org. First Baptist Church in Decatur is serving as a collection point for gift cards or cash that will aid the tornado victims. Donors can bring cash or any type gift card to First Baptist Church, Radio Shack or North Texas Bank. Cards and funds will be sent to First Baptist Church of Moore.

STORMY YESTERDAY, CLEAR TODAY – Another round of storms passed through Wise County yesterday bringing rain and some strong wind gusts, although no major damage was reported. Rainfall totals included 0.8 of an inch in Greenwood, 0.55 in Alvord, 0.5 in Chico, 0.43 in Rhome, 0.33 in Aurora and 0.29 in Decatur. Today should be mostly sunny with a high of 86.

CSCOPE CHANGES – The CSCOPE board of directors announced this week that all lesson plans will be removed from its website Aug. 31, and the regional service centers will not produce lesson plans in the future. The CSCOPE lesson plans had been criticized by many for teaching “anti-American” and “anti-Christian” values, factual errors, lack of creativity and lack of oversight. Supporters of the curriculum management tool said the lessons were intended to be used as a guide to show the appropriate rigor of a lesson and could be changed by individual teachers. CSCOPE will continue to provide school districts with scope and sequence and assessment material. Most school districts in Wise County use CSCOPE.

WOMAN PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO SUPPLYING GUN – The gun used by Evan Ebel to allegedly shoot and kill Colorado prisons chief Tom Clements, and the same gun which was later used to shoot and wound Montague County Deputy James Boyd and shoot at numerous Wise County officers during a police chase, was purchased by Stevie Marie Vigil, 22, of Commerce City, Colo. In a court appearance yesterday, her attorney, Normando Pacheco, said his client was threatened by Ebel, according to a story in the Denver Post. Pacheco said two witnesses could verify that Ebel used threats to force Vigil to give him the handgun, according to the Post story. Vigil’s trial is set for Aug. 12. Ebel was shot and killed in a shootout with officers March 21 in Decatur.

OFFICE CLOSED – The Decatur Housing Authority Office will be closed today and tomorrow for training. The office will also be closed Monday for Memorial Day.

RUMMAGE SALE – The youth group at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church No. 2 in Keeter will hold a rummage sale beginning at 8 a.m. Thursday through Saturday.

SLIDELL REGISTRATION – For Slidell Elementary Pre-K and Kindergarten registration contact Kristi Hankins at khankins@slidellisd.net or (940) 466-3118, ext. 233. Bring an original birth certificate, social security card, shot records, proof of residency and parents driver’s license/ID.

FUNERALS – Graveside service for Jackson Alexander Foley, the infant son of Hailey Marie Meadows and Ethan Andrew Foley of Bridgeport, is 10:30 a.m. today at Chico Cemetery. Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.

GRAVESIDE service for L. Wayne “Bus” Renshaw, 85, formerly of Rhome is 1 p.m. Friday at Aurora Cemetery. Family visitation is 10:30-11:30 a.m. Friday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.

MEMORIAL for Tom Hall, 59, of Runaway Bay is 3:30 p.m. Saturday at the Runaway Bay Community Church. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.

FUNERAL for Robert “Stoney” Stone, 84, of Decatur is 11 a.m. today at the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Bowie with burial at St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery. White Family Funeral Home in Bowie is handling arrangements.

GRAVESIDE service for Roger Dale Applegate, 46, of Bowie is 2 p.m. Thursday at Newport Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at White Family Funeral Home. He was the son of Kenneth Wood of Crafton. White Family Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

While Oklahoma first responders and National Guard members were searching through the rubble left by Monday’s devastating tornado, Wise County residents were already searching for ways to help. Jody Adams, director of the Decatur Economic Development Corporation and a trained disaster volunteer, said individuals are being asked not to just show up and volunteer to help.
“I’ll bet it’s at least four or five days before you can even get in there,” he said. “The residents aren’t even being allowed back in at this time.”
Adams said his group, SGSO (Serving God by Serving Others) will likely go in for the cleanup operations once all the victims have been recovered. Trained groups of volunteers are usually allowed in only after a disaster area is opened back up. Individuals and those who have not had disaster relief training are discouraged from just showing up to help.
For those with friends or loved ones in that area, officials were encouraging people to text rather than call, as most phone lines are at capacity or still down.
The Red Cross set up a “Safe and Well” program where those with loved ones in the affected areas may search for those who have listed themselves as “safe and well.” For more information on that program, visit www.safeandwell.org.
A reunification site was set up at St. Andrews Church, at the corner of SW 119th and S. May in Oklahoma City, and a triage center is in place at Warren Theater in Moore, the community hard-hit by the tornado.
Texas Congresswoman Kay Granger said those who are interested in making donation can contribute to several organizations that already have “boots on the ground” helping in the recovery effort:

News 9 Headquarters
Text FOOD to 32333 to donate $10 in storm relief
Accepting gloves, masks, toiletries, clothes & blankets (and other items) via mail to 7401 N. Kelley Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Red Cross
Text RED CROSS to 90999 to donate $10
To donate via phone, call 1-800-RED-CROS (1-800-733-2767). Please make sure to donate to “Disaster Relief.”
To donate online, visit www.RedCross.org. Please make sure to donate to “Disaster Relief.”

Salvation Army
Text STORM to 80888 to donate $10
To donate online, visit www.salvationarmyokcac.org

Feed the Children
To donate online, visit www.feedthechildren.org/disaster

Oklahoma Southern Baptist Disaster Help
To donate online, visit www.okdisasterhelp.com

GARBAGE TRUCK WRECK INJURES 2 - A garbage truck northbound on Farm Road 51 tried to take a turn too fast onto Texas 114 East Monday morning. It wound up spilling refuse, injuring two and shutting down part of the road. The driver locked the brakes, rolled and came to a rest upside down on the ramp. The wreck occurred at 8:40 yesterday morning, and the on-ramp from 51 North to 114 East was closed for several hours as emergency responders cleared the mess. The driver of the truck, which is owned by Midwest Allied Services, suffered serious injuries in the wreck. Joan L. Hatten, 46, of Weatherford, was flown from the scene to JPS Hospital in Fort Worth. The cab was crumpled in all around her after rolling. A passenger in the cab, Monterrea B. Finley, 32, was transported by ground to Wise Regional Health System in Decatur for non-life-threatening injuries. The pair had been running an early morning trash pick-up route in the Briar area.

PARADISE HIRES NEW AD, AGAIN – In a quick turn of events the Paradise Board of Trustees hired the district’s third athletic director in almost as many months. Paradise High School coach Scott Broussard will take the reins of PHS’ athletic program. More than 60 community members packed into the board room at PISD during the regular board meeting in response to the recent resignation of athletic director Brit Hart. Hart had only been Paradise’s AD since the board hired him March 25 following the sudden resignation of former AD Danny Neighbors.

TURF WAR ENDS – Bridgeport ISD’s board of trustees approved the purchase and installation of artificial turf for Bull Memorial Stadium. After lengthy discussion, the board voted 6-1 at last night’s meeting to purchase the turf for more than $750,000. Board member Marti Hines cast the dissenting vote. Two months ago the board voted 4-2 not to purchase the artificial playing surface. Part of the change in voting came from the fact the district is eligible for a zero interest federal loan worth up to $5.9 million that can be used to construct new or improve existing facilities.

MORE STORM CHANCES – The National Weather Service says there is a 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms today, and some may be severe. Today’s high is expected to reach 79 and drop to 65 by 5 p.m.

GOLF TOURNAMENT – The fifth annual Bridgeport Education Foundation Golf Tournament is Friday, June 14, at Bridgeport Country Club. Registration starts at 9 a.m. with a shot-gun start at 10 a.m. Prizes will be awarded for hole in one, longest drive in fairway and closest to the pin. Cost is $400 for a four-person team and includes lunch, cart and mulligan. Call Susan Miller at (940) 366-0186 for more information.

AWARDS CEREMONY – The Northwest ISD Board of Trustees will recognize the achievements of Northwest High School students in regional, state, national and international competitions during a ceremony 7 p.m. Thursday at the Vernon Solomon Performing Arts Center at NHS (2201 Texan Drive, in Justin).

CHECKUP POSTPONED – Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service- Wise County has postponed a free child safety seat checkup event originally scheduled for today to a later date due to the threat of inclement weather. Call the Wise County Extension office at (940) 627-3341 for more information.

VACCINATION CLINIC – The Weatherford College Wise County campus will host a vaccination clinic 10 a.m.-1 p.m. today. Hepatitis A/A&B/B, Chickenpox, Meningococcal, MMR, Tdap, and TB vaccinations will be available. Call the Area Health Education Center, located at the college, at (940) 626-3282 for more information.

BAKE SALE – North Texas Bank will hold a bake sale Friday to benefit the Military Warrriors Support Foundation that will be awarding homes to five worthy veterans at the June 8 J.W. Hart PBR Challenge.

PLANT SALE – Decatur High School FFA will sell plants and hanging baskets today through Thursday from 3-5:30 p.m. daily. For more information call Jim Allsup at (940) 393-7286.

FUNERALS – Memorial for Tom Hall, 59, of Runaway Bay is 3:30 p.m. Saturday at the Runaway Bay Community Church. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.

SERVICE for Wayne L. Renshaw, 85, of Grand Prairie is pending at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.

GRAVESIDE service for Jackson Alexander Foley, the infant son of Hailey Marie Meadows and Ethan Andrew Foley of Bridgeport, is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Chico Cemetery. Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.

A garbage truck northbound on Farm Road 51 tried to take too a turn too fast onto Texas 114 East Monday morning. It wound up spilling refuse, injuring two and shutting down part of the road. The driver locked the brakes, rolled and came to a rest upside down on the ramp. The wreck occurred at 8:40 this morning, and the on-ramp from 51 North to 114 East is expected to be closed until at least 11:30 a.m. as emergency responders try to clear the mess. Drivers northbound on FM 51 needing to turn east onto Texas 114 should turn right onto County Road 4599 and follow it until it runs into Texas 114. The driver of the truck, which is owned by Midwest Allied Services, suffered serious injuries in the wreck. Joan L. Hatten, 46, of Weatherford, was flown from the scene to JPS Hospital in Fort Worth. The cab was crumpled in all around her after rolling. A passenger in the cab, Monterrea B. Finley, 32, was transported by ground to Wise Regional Health System in Decatur for non-life-threatening injuries. The pair had been running an early morning trash pick-up route in the Briar area.

Messenger photo by Jimmy Alford

TAX VALUES SLIPPING – The sluggish economy took its toll on tax values in Wise County this year. Chief Appraiser Mickey Hand issued his preliminary values over the weekend and for most cities and school districts the news was not good. Overall Wise County tax values stood at $7.1 billion, a decrease of three-quarters of 1 percent. While real estate values were up, mineral values dropped 9.25 percent. City of Decatur values stood at almost $580 million, a decrease of 2.14 percent while Decatur ISD values were $2.243 billion, a decrease of 2.9 percent. Mineral values in DISD were down 11.24 percent. There were some bright spots – Slidell ISD saw its values jump 58 percent while Alvord ISD values climbed almost 25 percent, Bridgeport ISD was up 1.8 percent, Paradise ISD up 1.7 percent. Slidell mineral values were up almost 85 percent and Alvord’s up 64 percent. The cities of Aurora, Boyd and Paradise showed small valuation increases. City of Rhome values were down 14.3 percent with a 30 percent drop in mineral values. Final values are due in July.

GILL NAMED PROSECUTOR IN ROSS CASE - Tarrant County Assistant District Attorney Robert Gill has been appointed prosecutor to continue the case against suspended Precinct 4 County Commissioner Terry Ross. Gill was appointed by District Judge Roger Towery last week after District Attorney Greg Lowery last month recused himself and his office from the case after being reminded that he represented Ross in a criminal matter 16 years ago. No trial date has been set for Ross, who faces charges of tampering with governmental records, theft by a public servant and abuse of official capacity. Read more in the weekend Wise County Messenger on news stands now.

NWS CLASSIFIES ALVORD TORNADO EF-0 – The National Weather Service in Fort Worth released more information about the tornado spotted near Alvord during last Wednesday’s storms. The tornado has been rated “EF-0″ with estimated peak winds of 80 miles per hour. It was estimated to be 25 yards wide and was on the ground for just 1/10 of a mile. The NWS said the location was 3 miles northeast of Alvord in open land and damaged only trees. An “EF-0″ tornado is classified as a weak tornado with winds 65 to 85 miles per hour.

STORMS POSSIBLE TONIGHT – It could be another stormy evening in Wise County with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Some of the storms could be severe, the National Weather Service says. Large hail and damaging winds will be the primary threats, but isolated tornadoes are also possible. Temperatures are expected to reach 92 today.

STEM SHOWCASE – The Northwest High School Academy of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) will host its third annual showcase 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the NHS east entrance. Students in ninth through 12th grade will display their best work.

VACCINATION CLINIC – The Weatherford College Wise County campus will host a vaccination clinic 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday.  Hepatitis A/A&B/B, Chickenpox, Meningococcal, MMR, Tdap, and TB vaccinations will be available. Call the Area Health Education Center, located at the college, at 940-626-3282 for additional information.

HEAD START ENROLLMENT – Decatur Head Start is enrolling 4-year-olds for the 2013-14 school year. For information call (940) 627-6418 or 627-6435 or come by 575 W. Mulberry St. Decatur.

WISE DEMOCRATS – The Wise County Democratic Party will meet at 7 tonight in the Law Enforcement Center Courtroom, 200 Rook Ramsey Dr., in Decatur.

RECORDING HISTORY WORKSHOP – The Bridgeport Historical Society is holding a free workshop titled “Here and There: Recollections of Texas in World War II” 1-3 p.m. today at the Weatherford College Wise County campus. This workshop is one of a series taking place across the state, which is designed to teach people how to conduct and record oral histories pertaining to the World War II effort. Attendees will receive free oral history training handouts and a “how-to” presentation by Texas Historical Commission oral historian William McWhorter. Call Ken Sprecher at (940) 683-5389 if you have any questions.

CHICO SCHOOL BOARD – The Chico School Board meets at 6:30 tonight in the Chico Elementary School Cafetorium. Agenda items include the swearing in of newly-elected board members, reorganization of the board, recognizing student UIL and spring contest results, possible bond items and the purchase of elementary iPad carts.

FUNERALS – Service for Ima Lee Anderson, 81, of Decatur is 2 p.m. today at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Decatur with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery.

MEMORIAL service for Tom Hall, 59, of Runaway Bay is 3:30 p.m. Saturday at Runaway Bay Community Church. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.

MEMORIAL service for Dr. Red Covington, 75, of Waco, formerly of Alvord, is 1 p.m. today at First Baptist Church of Waco. Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home in Waco is handling arrangements.

NWS CONFIRMS ALVORD AREA TORNADO – National Weather Service survey crews spent yesterday gathering information about the damage created by Wednesday night’s storm which produced what they say are 16 confirmed tornadoes stretching from Montague County to just north of Goldthwaite in Central Texas. One of those confirmed tornadoes was near Alvord, although no other details were available early Friday. The largest tornado was a 1/2-mile wide EF-4 that hit Granbury, killing six people and injuring dozens. Three of the tornadoes were confirmed in Montague County – one just south of Amon Carter Lake, one near Belcherville and another near Nocona Lake. Data is still being collected, and the NWS said they will provide more information as it becomes available.

RELAY FOR LIFE – Today marks the 11th installment of Relay for Life in Wise County. It kicks off at 6 tonight with a reception for survivors at the old Decatur High School track (on Thompson Street). The first lap is at 7 p.m., followed by a luminaria ceremony at 9 p.m. The event also includes contests, live entertainment, concessions and other fundraisers before activities wrap up around 7 a.m. tomorrow. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

WISE REGIONAL BRIDGEPORT CELEBRATION – Wise Regional Health System will celebrate the addition of the Bridgeport hospital to the countywide healthcare system with refreshments and cake 11 a.m.-1 p.m. today. The Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting at 11:30. The former North Texas Community Hospital was purchased out of bankruptcy by Wise Regional and has undergone remodeling as well as computer and technology system upgrades. The hospital is now fully functional again.

HANEY REMAINS PRESIDENT - At a relatively short Decatur School Board meeting last night, Kevin Haney was re-elected as board president while Jeff Alling was re-elected as vice president. Jeff Elder was elected secretary.

RECORDING HISTORY WORKSHOP - The Bridgeport Historical Society is holding a free workshop titled “Here and There: Recollections of Texas in World War II” 1-3 p.m. Monday at the Weatherford College Wise County campus. This workshop is one of a series taking place across the state, which is designed to teach people how to conduct and record oral histories pertaining to the World War II effort. Attendees will receive free oral history training handouts and a “how-to” presentation by Texas Historical Commission oral historian William McWhorter. Call Ken Sprecher at (940) 683-5389 if you have any questions.

TRAIL BLAZERS LUNCH – Senior citizens are invited to a free lunch 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, at Rock Island Family Church, 545 W. Rock Island Ave., in Boyd. The theme will be “Memorial Day,” remembering those who have sacrificed for our freedom. For more information or to RSVP, call (940) 433-8200 or (817) 944-8353.

SAFETY SEAT CHECKUP – Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service- Wise County hosts a free child safety seat checkup event 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, at the Decatur Middle School parking lot located at 1201 W. Thompson St. Certified technicians will be on hand to conduct the inspections and offer advice to parents/caregivers to ensure safety and compliance. Call the Wise County Extension office at (940) 627-3341 for more information.

CLEANUP DAY – The Lake Bridgeport Cleanup is 8:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday at various points along the lake. Volunteers will receive supply kits and free T-shirts and are invited to a post-cleanup celebration with lunch, prizes and entertainment, from 11:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. To register, fill out the form at www.trwd.com or call (817) 335-2491.

3-ON-3 – Bridgeport Class of 2017 is having a three-on-three basketball tournament 9 a.m. Saturday at Bridgeport Middle School. Check-in is at 8. Fourth graders through adults are eligible to enter, and divisions may be combined if there is a lack of entries. Cost is $100 per team, youth or adult. There will also be free throw and three-point contests with prizes. For more information, call Deneise Walker at (940) 389-5420 or Brittany Sutherland at (940) 389-8701.

FUNERALS – Service for Jerry Wayne Askey, 74, of Decatur is 1 p.m. Saturday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Decatur with burial at Eaton Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at the funeral home.

FUNERAL for Ima Lee Anderson, 81, of Decatur is 2 p.m. Monday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery. Family visitation is 3-5 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

FUNERAL for Mary Frances Clark, 72, of Rhome is 11 a.m. Saturday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with burial at Boyd Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at the funeral home.

FUNERAL for Mark Edward Faris, 48, of Bridgeport is 3 p.m. Saturday at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Bridgeport with burial at East Bridgeport Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at the funeral home.

Emergency management personnel and sheriff’s officers are out checking out the damage from last night’s storms. Photos taken by Messenger photographer Joe Duty and submitted from area residents are below. Waves of strong thunderstorms swept through Wise County Wednesday evening, bringing heavy rain, wind, hail and even reports of tornado touchdowns. Damage reports seemed to come mainly in the north end of the county, from near Crafton, north of Alvord, the Sycamore community and the Greenwood area. According to the police radio, several homes were damaged or destroyed. Trees and downed power lines littered roadways, and many residents, particularly in those areas that saw the most damage, lost power. Sabrina Easley with Oncor reported that at the peak of the storm, 2,000 customers were without power due to trees in the power lines. As of 7:45 a.m., only about 50 customers remained without power, Easley said. Power is expected to be restored to those customers by noon today. She added that the damage they saw indicated rotational winds. Hail reports from across the county ranged from pea-sized to golf ball-sized. Storm spotters reported several tornado touchdowns, but it is unclear if any of the damage reported by residents was caused by those tornadoes. There were no reports of injuries. Rain totals included 4.4 inches in Greenwood, 2.6 in Alvord, 2.25 in Rhome, 1.9 in Aurora, 1.68 in Decatur and 1 in Chico.

A tornado on the ground was photographed by Jerry Klein near Sunset Wednesday night.

A collapsed barn sits on top of an 18-wheeler flatbed at the home of Danny Taylor near Greenwood. Messenger photo by Joe Duty.

Strong winds knocked down trees and powerlines throughout the county. This damage on Greenwood Road a few miles north of Decatur shut down the road. Messenger photo by Joe Duty.

This funnel cloud was seen around 6:25 p.m. Wednesday off FM 2265 about a mile from Texas 101 between Chico and Alvord. Submitted photo by Delia Hernandez.

Storm clouds pass overhead 3 miles north of Alvord on FM 1655 at 8 p.m. Wednesday. Submitted photo by Brad Faglie.

Pea sized hail was reported in Paradise. Other areas of the county reported hail the size of golf balls. Photo submitted through Facebook by Ashley Waylon Wiley.

Areas just north of the Wise County line received even bigger hail. This baseball-sized hail fell near Bowie. Photo submitted through Facebook by Anita Farley Edwards.

DAMAGING STORMS — Waves of strong thunderstorms swept through Wise County Wednesday evening, bringing heavy rain, wind, hail and even reports of tornado touchdowns. Damage reports seemed to come mainly in the north end of the county, from near Crafton, north of Alvord, the Sycamore community and the Greenwood area. According to the police radio, several homes were damaged or destroyed. Trees and downed power lines littered roadways, and many residents, particularly in those areas that saw the most damage, lost power. Sabrina Easley with Oncor reported that at the peak of the storm, 2,000 customers were without power due to trees in the power lines. As of 7:45 a.m., only about 50 customers remained without power, Easley said. Power is expected to be restored to those customers by noon today. She added that the damage they saw indicated rotational winds. Hail reports from across the county ranged from pea-sized to golf ball-sized. Storm spotters reported several tornado touchdowns, but it is unclear if any of the damage reported by residents was caused by those tornadoes. There were no reports of injuries. Rain totals included 4.4 inches in Greenwood, 2.6 in Alvord, 2.25 in Rhome, 1.9 in Aurora, 1.68 in Decatur and 1 in Chico.

FREE MAMMOGRAMS — Mary’s Gift will offer free mammogram screenings for eligible women Wednesday, May 22, by appointment only. Call (940) 626-1384 to apply.

WEST RELIEF — The Bridgeport and Decatur chambers of commerce, along with Wise County-Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Services, will collect monetary donations through Friday for the victims of the explosions in West. Drop off checks at either chamber’s office, the Extension office or any local Legend, First Financial or First State bank branch. Legend Bank’s Wise County locations will also accept cash donations.

NO LIMITS SHOWCASE — Northwest ISD kindergarten through 12-graders will present their best work in science and problem-based learning at the Night of No Limits 6-8 tonight at Northwest High School. Families and community members are invited to watch live student presentations in a gallery format and engage in hands-on, interactive exhibits from the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and CBS-DFW Meteorologist Jeff Jamison.

SOFTBALL MEETING — The Wise County Adult Softball League coaches meeting is 7 tonight at Renshaw Park. A team representative must be present. Men’s and coed league play begins in June. For information, call Clifton North at (940) 393-2752.

EAST SIDE SALE — East Side Alumni will a host garage and bake sale all day Saturday at the RC Dawson Home. For information, call (940) 627-9082.

OFFICE CLOSED FOR TRAINING — The Veterans Service Office will be closed the week of May 20-24 to attend training. The office will reopen for normal business May 28.

SAVE THE DATE — The 3rd Annual Chisholm Trail Steak Challenge is 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at the Reunion Grounds in Decatur. This year’s event will also include a 5K. For more information, visit chisholmtrailsteakchallenge.com or call Stephanie at 214-683-1766.

BENEFIT BARBECUE — A benefit for Wanda Fennell Hobbs, who has cancer, is 10 a.m. Saturday at 416 CR 4587 in Boyd. There will be a barbecue lunch, wolf chase clay shoot for adults and children, bounce house, face painting, horse shoe tournament, silent auction and gun raffle. For more information or to donate, call or text Glenn Hughes at 817-991-1186 or Stacy Williams at 940-389-2650.

ALUMNI GAME — The Boyd High School Girls Basketball Alumni game is 6:30 p.m. Friday at the high school gym. The event will include concessions, prizes and an auction.

KINDERGARTEN ROUNDUP — Kindergarten roundup for Decatur ISD is 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 23, on each elementary campus. Parents should bring their driver’s license, their child’s birth certificate, Social Security card, immunization record and proof of residency in the district.

FUNERALS — Memorial service for Dr. Red Covington of Waco, formerly of Alvord, is 1 p.m. Monday, May 20, at First Baptist Church of Waco. Visitation is 6-9 p.m. Sunday at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home, 6101 Bosque Blvd., in Waco.

SERVICE for Jerry W. Askey, 74, of Decatur is pending at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.

FUNERAL for Mary Frances Clark, 72, of Rhome is 11 a.m. Saturday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with burial at Boyd Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

FUNERAL for Mark Faris, 48, of Bridgeport is 3 p.m. Saturday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at East Bridgeport Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

FUNERAL for David Puckett, 56, of Alvarado, formerly of Bridgeport, is 2 p.m. today at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at Jim Ned Cemetery.

Waves of strong thunderstorms swept through Wise County Wednesday evening, bring heavy rain, wind, hail and even reports of tornado touchdowns. Damage reports seemed to come mainly in the north end of the county, from near Crafton, north of Alvord over to Greenwood. According to police radio, several homes were damaged or destroyed. Trees and downed power lines littered roadways, and many residents, particularly in those areas that saw the most damage, lost power. Hail reports from across the county ranged from pea-sized to golf ball-sized. Storm spotters reported several tornado touchdowns, but it is unclear if any of the damage reported by residents was caused by those tornadoes. There were no reports of injuries.

A tornado was spotted around 6:25 p.m. on Farm Road 2265 about a mile from Texas 101. Photo submitted by Delia Hernandez.

MURDER MAY HAVE TAKEN PLACE ON SATURDAY – Investigators believe Nancy Heithecker may have been killed by her son in their home Saturday. A neighbor reported seeing Kirk Alan Heithecker, 49, piling up trash in his yard during the day Saturday. The neighbor also confronted Kirk Heithecker about water that was running onto his property and found the man “belligerent.” On Sunday, investigators discovered Nancy Heithecker’s body underneath the trash pile at the home in the 700 block of County Road 4270 south of Decatur and arrested her son for murder. Read the full story in the midweek Wise County Messenger on news stands today.

NEWARK SHOOTING DETAILS RELEASED – Kenneth Carl Carlton Jr., 38, shot out the windows of a neighbor’s car, shot at various neighbor’s homes, shot at a neighbor running away from him and went into the home of another neighbor and briefly held a gun to her head in an incident late Saturday night in the 400 block of Country Living Drive in Newark, according to the Wise County Sheriff’s Department, which released details about the incident yesterday. Carlton was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated kidnapping, burglary of a habitation with the intent to commit another felony and deadly conduct. He remains jailed with bond set at $200,000. Read more in the midweek Messenger.

RAIN CHANCES – The National Weather Service forecast includes a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms today and tonight. Today’s high is expected to reach 75 degrees. A warm up is expected over the next few days, with high temperatures reaching the 90s by Friday and Saturday.

FAN DRIVE – The Wise County Committee on Aging will hold its second annual summer fan drive to distribute to seniors in need. Drop off your donations at Angels Care Home Health, Senior Care Health and Rehabilitation and the WCCA office, all in Decatur.

BRIDGEPORT CHAMBER LUNCH – The Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce’s May Luncheon is 11:30 a.m. Thursday at the Bridgeport Community Center. The program will include the Chamber and Devon Energy Scholarship Awards and the 2013-2014 Chamber Directory and Visitor Guide unveiling. Lunch costs $10, and door prize donations are always appreciated. RSVP by today to (940) 683-2076 or email tiffanyevans@bridgeportchamber.org.

FIGHTING CANCER – Relay For Life of Wise County is Friday at the old Decatur High School track (on Thompson Street). A reception for survivors is at 6 p.m., followed by the first lap at 7 p.m. and a luminaria ceremony at 9 p.m. The event also includes contests, live entertainment, concessions and other fundraisers before activities wrap up around 7 a.m. Saturday, May 18. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

WISE DEMOCRATS – The Wise County Democratic Party will meet at 7 p.m. Monday, May 20, in the Law Enforcement Center Courtroom, 200 Rook Ramsey Dr., in Decatur.

NORTHWEST REUNION – The Northwest High School classes of 1950-1957 will host a multi-class reunion on Saturday, June 1 at Northwest High School, 2300 Texan Drive. The event will begin at 10 a.m. and includes a barbecue luncheon. The cost of the event is $16 per person. For further information contact Wanda Ragsdale Smith at (817) 491-1234, Virginia Provence Brown at (940) 964-2955 or Elaine Peterson Teichman at letters4et@hotmail.com.

BENEFIT PERFORMANCE – The Artisan Center Theater will perform “The Hiding Place” (the Corrie ten Boom Story) at 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Wise County Heritage Museum theater in Decatur. All proceeds will benefit relief efforts in West. Eve Roberts of Wise County is directing the production, and Judi Conger of Runaway Bay will play Corrie ten Boom. Other local actors include Cathy Lackey of Decatur and Rick and Andrea Duwe of Greenwood. Rebecca Roberts of Decatur is the theater’s resident costumer. Tickets can be purchased for a $10 donation, and an offering will be collected at the performance. Call (817) 284-1200 for reservations and tickets.

ALVORD ROUNDUP – Alvord Elementary is hosting their Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten Round Up 8:30-10:30 a.m. through Thursday in the Alvord Elementary School office. Children need to be 4 years of age for Pre-Kindergarten and 5 years of age for Kindergarten by Sept. 1, 2013. Parents will need to bring the child’s social security card, birth certificate, a current immunization record and proof of residency in the Alvord School District. (It is not necessary to bring your child with you.) For more information call the Elementary School office at (940) 427-2881.

FUNERALS – Service for David Puckett, 56, of Alvarado, formerly of Bridgeport, is 2 p.m. Thursday in the Chapel at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at Jim Ned Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at the funeral home.

SERVICE for Mary Clark, 72, of Rhome is pending at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.

FUNERAL for Thomas Russell Whittington, 61, of Newark is 1 p.m. today at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel.

FUNERAL for Mark Faris, 48, of Bridgeport is 3 p.m. Saturday at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Bridgeport with burial at East Bridgeport Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

AFFIDAVIT: SON KILLED MOM AND BURIED HER UNDER TRASH – Kirk Alan Heithecker assaulted his 75-year-old mother, killing her, according to an arrest warrant affidavit obtained by a open records request from the Wise County Messenger. The affidavit states that the daughter of Nancy Heithecker went to her mother’s house for Mother’s Day and asked Kirk Heithecker where she was. Kirk, 49, responded that she was dead and “under the trash.” The daughter called the sheriff’s office and deputies were sent to the home at 710 County Road 4270. Kirk told deputies he “killed his mother with his heel” and was “sending her to hell,” according to the affidavit. Investigators found a large pile of trash in front of the home and found Nancy’s body underneath. When investigators asked Kirk what happened, he said his mother was sitting in the loveseat in the living room and he kicked her and hit her. He then took his mother’s body outside, “placed his black robe on her that was the process of going to hell” and then threw trash on her because he could still see her. The Southwest Institute of Forensic Science performed an autopsy Monday and determined that the cause of death is homicidal violence including blunt force trauma and strangulation. Heithecker has been charged with murder and remains in the Wise County Jail with bond set at $1 million.

NEW FIRE MARSHAL – Wise County commissioners welcomed new fire marshal, Chuck Beard, at their regular meeting Monday. “I’m real excited to be here,” he said. “I’ve been in fire service for 28 years and just retired from Weatherford last year. I’m not here to reinvent the wheel or anything. I’m just here to help out.” Beard and his wife, Melinda, live in Parker County but plan to move to Wise County.

GIVING BACK – Organizers of Bridgeport Gives Back are looking for volunteers to help with various community service projects Wednesday through Sunday. Projects include construction and home maintenance for neighbors in need, nursing facility outreach, supporting special needs baseball players, assisting the elderly with smoke alarm safety and recognizing local educators. To register, contact Charli Franks at (940) 683-4008, (940) 393-1494 or charli@meyersagency.com, or Shelley McComis at (940) 683-4738, (940) 399-8277 or shelley.mccomis@gmail.com.

MASONS HONOR – Bridgeport Masonic Lodge No. 587 will recognize three teachers and six students from each Alvord, Bridgeport and Paradise schools at an awards presentation 6 tonight at the Masonic Lodge, 1012A Halsell St., in Bridgeport. Those being honored include: Melissa Nivens of Alvord Middle School; Kay Short of Bridgeport Middle; and Melanie Tittor of Paradise Elementary as Outstanding Teachers and Chase Walter and Ariel Rogers of Alvord; Cameron J. Crawford and Nikki Mowery of Bridgeport; and Dalton Meadows and Sara Kelly of Paradise as scholarship recipients.

SOFTBALL MEETING – The Wise County Adult Softball League coaches meeting is 7 p.m. Thursday at Renshaw Park. A team representative must be present. Men’s and coed league play begins in June. For information call Clifton North at (940) 393-2752.

FUNDRAISER LUNCHEON – The ladies of the Boonsville Community Center will hold their annual fundraiser luncheon noon Wednesday. Everyone in the area is invited.

3-ON-3 BASKETBALL – The Decatur Boys Basketball Program is hosting a 3-on-3 basketball tournament at 5 p.m. May 24 at DHS. Divisions include men’s, women’s, co-ed, boys and girls. Cost is $140 per adult team and $100 per youth team. All entries must be received by May 23. Call Coach Coffman for more information at (806) 252-6660.

SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT – A coed softball tournament benefiting the fallen Bridgeport Police Sgt. Randy White Scholarship fund is June 1 at the Bridgeport Rec. fields. Cost is $175 per team. Deadline is this Friday. If interested call Misty Schwartz at (940) 389-0207.

SCV MEETING – The Sons of Confederate Veterans meet at 7 tonight at the Wesley Center of the First United Methodist Church in Decatur. The program will be presented by Duane Durrett from the Weatherford College Wise County Campus.

ALUMNI FUNDRAISER – Decatur FFA Alumni is having its awards dinner and silent auction 5:30 p.m. Thursday at the DHS cafeteria. The public is invited. A barbecue meal, provided by Wise Electric Co-op, is free – but they hope to raise $5,000 through the auction and general donations. Proceeds benefit scholarships and help alleviate expenses for FFA members traveling to contests. The featured item in the auction is a spring turkey or hog hunt for four in LaSalle County.

ASK ONCOR – The Great Bay Alliance and Oncor will present a come-and-go open house 5 to 7 p.m. today at The Club at Runaway Bay, 400 Half Moon Way. Attendants will learn how to save energy and how to benefit from smart meters. There will be drawings for gift cards.

FUNERALS – Graveside service for Mary Jon (White) Fleming, 84, formerly of Bridgeport is 11 a.m. today at East Bridgeport Cemetery. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.

FUNERAL for Thomas Russell Whittington, 61, of Newark is 1 p.m. Wednesday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Boyd. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at the funeral home.

FUNERAL for Richard David Puckett, 56, of Alvarado, formerly of Bridgeport, is 2 p.m. Thursday in the Chapel at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at Jim Ned Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Kirk Alan Heithecker assaulted his 75-year-old mother, killing her, according to an arrest warrant affidavit obtained by a open records request from the Messenger. The affidavit states that the daughter of Nancy Heithecker went to her mother’s house for Mother’s Day and asked Kirk Heithecker where she was. Kirk, 49, responded that she was dead and “under the trash.” The daughter called the sheriff’s office and deputies were sent to the home at 710 County Road 4270. Kirk told deputies he “killed his mother with his heel” and was “sending her to hell,” according to the affidavit. Investigators found a large pile of trash in front of the home and found Nancy’s body underneath. When investigators asked Kirk what happened, he said his mother was sitting in the loveseat in the living room and he kicked her and hit her. He then took his mother’s body outside, “placed his black robe on her that was the process of going to hell” and then threw trash on her because he could still see her. The Southwest Institute of Forensic Science performed an autopsy Monday and determined that the cause of death is homicidal violence including blunt force trauma and strangulation. Heithecker has been charged with murder and remains in the Wise County Jail with bond set at $1 million.

Kirk Alan Heithecker

According to information posted on the Wise County Jail website, Kirk Heithecker, 49, has been charged with the murder of his mother, whose identity has not yet been released by police. According to the jail website, Heithecker is listed as being a resident at the home where the body of his mother was found late yesterday afternoon at 710 County Road 4270 south of Decatur. Heithecker had been detained at the scene Sunday night and taken to the Wise County Jail for questioning. The body of his mother has been sent to the Dallas County Medical Examiners Office where an autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of death. More information will be posted at WCMessenger.com as it is available. Read an earlier post here.

Kirk Alan Heithecker

SON DETAINED IN MOM’S DEATH – The Wise County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the death of a Decatur woman, and her son is being detained for questioning in the case. Captain Kevin Benton with the Wise County Sheriff’s Department said a member of the woman’s family had called the sheriff’s office asking officers to check on the woman’s welfare late Sunday afternoon. Officers arrived and found the body of an unidentified elderly white female outside a home at 710 County Road 4270 a few miles south of Decatur. The woman’s son was detained at the scene based on his statements to officers, Benton said, and later taken to the Wise County Jail for questioning. Precinct 2 Justice of the Peace Terri Johnson pronounced the woman dead at the scene. Her body was sent to the Dallas medical examiner’s office for an autopsy. Benton said the autopsy should be performed today, and they should know more on the cause of death at that point. More information will be posted in this developing story at WCMessenger.com as it is available.

MAN ARRESTED FOR KIDNAPPING, DEADLY CONDUCT – A Newark man was arrested early Sunday morning on multiple charges involving a shooting in his neighborhood. Officers responded to the 400 block of Country Living Drive in Newark just before midnight late Saturday night in response to a complaint about a man with a gun. When officers arrived, they reported hearing gunfire. Details of the incident have not been released, but the suspect, Kenneth Carl Carlton Jr., 38, was arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated kidnapping, burglary of a habitation with the intent to commit another felony and deadly conduct according to the jail’s website. After Carlton was detained, medics were called to check him out due to the fact he was “tazed multiple times,” according to police radio. An officer at the scene said no one was injured in the shooting. More information will be posted at WCMessenger.com as it is available.

ELECTION RESULTS – Voters have made their choices in local city and school elections. In Decatur, Wade Watson won Place 1 with 330 votes over Tony Mooney, who received 240. In the Decatur City Council race, Randy Bowker retained his Place 6 seat by a 163-42 vote over Peter Rivera. In the Chico School Board race, Paul Cantrell was the only incumbent to retain his seat. He received 140 votes in Place 3 while challengers Greta McDaniel received 126 and Victor Gonzales 67. Donald Clark defeated Noel Ruddick 170-161 for Place 4. Bill Hand won Place 5 by a 178-154 vote over Craig Moss. Three at-large seats in Rhome were won by Louis Godfrey (89 votes), Charles Pennington (75 votes) and Ronnie Moore (74 votes). Also receiving votes were Cole Blanche (54), Chris Graves (50) and Pattie Mitchell (19). Anne Davis-Simpson was elected to Place 3 on the Northwest School Board with 937 votes. Kyle Morris received 470 votes and Edward R. Mergenthal Jr. 95.

STATE TRACK RESULTS – At the state track meet Saturday, Northwest’s Desiree Freier won her second straight state championship in the pole vault, setting a new state record with a vault of 13-9. Other Northwest results included Zach Kirkland, 7th in the 800 meter with a time of 1:55; Kiarra Simpson, 7th in the discus with a throw of 133-9; and Kellee McCann, 4th in the 3200 meter with a time of 10:50. Decatur’s results included Nicole Neighbors, 4th in the 300 hurdles with a time of 45.23 and 8th in the 100 hurdles with a time of 15.77; Haley Dennard, 7th in the 800 meter with a time of 2:22; Brandon Rivera, 4th in the 800 meter with a time of 2:00; and Taylor Clayton, 5th in the 3200 meter with a time of 9:38 and 6th in the 1600 meter with a time of 4:30. Alvord’s Savannah Williams won 2nd place in the 800 meter with a time of 2:21.

TEEN INJURED IN WRECK – A Decatur teenager was flown to John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth early Saturday morning following a wreck in the Decatur Acres neighborhood south of Decatur. Department of Public Safety Trooper Gary Reid said Elizabeth Susan Roberts, 18, of Decatur was operating an all terrain vehicle, going eastbound on River Road when she didn’t make the curve at the intersection with Mockingbird Lane, left the roadway and crashed head on into a tree. Neighbors found Roberts passed out and called 911. A helicopter ambulance was dispatched and landed on Mockingbird Lane in the residential neighborhood. Reid said Roberts was flown mainly for precautionary reasons, and he did not believe the injuries were life-threatening. The accident was reported shortly after 2 a.m.

MOTORCYCLIST FLOWN FROM WRECK – Richard Gene Mesler, 59, of Paradise was flown to John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth after he crashed his motorcycle on County Road 3673 in south Wise County Sunday afternoon. Department of Public Safety Trooper Beau Bridgeman said Mesler was westbound on the county road when he apparently when off the side of the road, lost control of the bike and crashed into a ditch. Bridgeman said it appears Mesler was traveling at an unsafe speed. He said Mesler sustained injuries to his head, but the injuries were not believed to be life-threatening. The accident happened around 5:30 p.m.

CAPTAINS MEETING – Relay For Life of Wise County team captains meet 7:30 tonight at Candlewood Suites in Decatur. At this final gathering before the event on Friday, May 17, team captains will pick up T-shirts, turn in baskets for the silent auction and last-minute money and sign up for campsites and trash pick-up. For more information, call Stephanie at 940-393-3165.

VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION – Northwest ISD Partners in Education (PIE) will host an orientation for new volunteers 5 to 6 p.m. Tuesday at Wilson Middle School (14250 Sendera Ranch Blvd., in Haslet). PIE will share ways to become involved and partner in Northwest ISD. RSVP to Phil Beckman at 817-215-0175.

SCV MEETING – The Sons of Confederate Veterans meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Wesley Center of the First Methodist Church in Decatur. The program will be presented by Duane Durrett from the Weatherford College Wise County Campus.

PARADISE HISTORICAL SOCIETY – Rosalie Gregg, executive director of Wise County Heritage Museum, will be the guest speaker at the Paradise Historical Society meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the United Methodist Church, 301 S. Oak Street, in Paradise. Gregg will present “Mann Family History-From Tennessee to Texas.” Admission is free and the public is invited. Refreshments and business meeting will follow the presentation. For more information, call (940) 859-3691.

RETIRED EDUCATOR MEETING – The Wise County Retired School Personnel’s last meeting until September is 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Decatur Civic Center. An End of Year Celebration will be held. All active and retired school personnel are invited. Register by calling (940) 575-2341.

REPUBLICAN MEETING – Wise County Republicans meet at 6:30 tonight in the training room of the Wise County Sheriff’s Office Complex. Wise County Commissioner and Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation District representative Kevin Burns will talk about water issues.

NORTHWEST SCHOOL BOARD – At its board meeting, Northwest ISD officials will discuss donating temporary use of portable buildings, furniture and fixtures to West ISD. NISD trustees will also open the process to rename NISD Agricultural Sciences Learning Center to honor a staff or community member who had a passion and advocated strongly for the district’s ag program. Trustees will hear an update and finalize an employee compensation plan during a budget workshop at 5:30 p.m. before the 7 p.m. meeting. The plan, which includes a 2 percent increase at each pay grade, will be voted on during the regular meeting. Both the workshop and the meeting will be held at the NISD Administration Building, 2001 Texan Drive.

FUNERALS – Graveside service for Ambrose B. Plucker, 91, of Bridgeport is 1 p.m. Wednesday at Oakhill Cemetery in Neenah, Wis. Family visitation is 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at Westgor Funeral Home in Neenah. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.

MEMORIAL for Mary Martha Turnipseed, 62, of Chico is 2 p.m. today at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel.

SERVICE for Thomas Russell Whittington, 60, of Newark is pending at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.

The Wise County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the death of a Decatur woman, and her son is being detained for questioning in the case. He has not been charged with a crime. Captain Kevin Benton with the Wise County Sheriff’s Department said a member of the woman’s family had called the sheriff’s office asking officers to check on the woman’s welfare late Sunday afternoon. Officers arrived and found the body of an unidentified elderly white female outside a home at 710 County Road 4270 a few miles south of Decatur. The woman’s son was detained at the scene based on his statements to officers, Benton said, and later taken to the Wise County Jail for questioning. Precinct 2 Justice of the Peace Terri Johnson pronounced the woman dead at the scene. Her body will be sent to the Dallas medical examiner’s office for an autopsy. Benton said the autopsy should be performed Monday, and they should know more on the cause of death at that point. Police continued to work the crime scene late into Sunday night. More information will be posted in this developing story at WCMessenger.com as it is available.

A Newark man was arrested early Sunday morning on multiple charges involving a shooting in his neighborhood. Officers responded to the 400 block of Country Living Drive in Newark just before midnight late Saturday night in response to a complaint about a man with a gun. When officers arrived, they reported hearing gunfire. The suspect, Kenneth Carl Carlton Jr., 38, was arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated kidnapping, burglary of a habitation with the intent to commit another felony and deadly conduct according to the jail’s website. After Carlton was detained, medics were called to check him out due to the fact he was “tazed multiple times,” according to police radio. An officer at the scene said no one was injured in the shooting. More information will be posted at WCMessenger.com as it is available.

Voters have made their choices in local city and school elections. In Decatur, Wade Watson won Place 1 with 330 votes over Tony Mooney, who received 240. In the Decatur City Council race, Randy Bowker retained his Place 6 seat by a 163-42 vote over Peter Rivera. In the Chico School Board race, Paul Cantrell was the only incumbent to retain his seat. He received 140 votes in Place 3 while challengers Greta McDaniel received 126 and Victor Gonzales 67. Donald Clark defeated Noel Ruddick 170-161 for Place 4. Bill Hand won Place 5 by a 178-154 vote over Craig Moss. Three at-large seats in Rhome were won by Louis Godfrey (89 votes), Charles Pennington (75 votes) and Ronnie Moore (74 votes). Also receiving votes were Cole Blanche (54), Chris Graves (50) and Pattie Mitchell (19). Anne Davis-Simpson was elected to Place 3 on the Northwest School Board with 937 votes. Kyle Morris received 470 votes and Edward R. Mergenthal Jr. 95.

A Decatur teenager was flown to John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth early Saturday morning following a wreck in the Decatur Acres neighborhood south of Decatur. Department of Public Safety Trooper Gary Reid said Elizabeth Susan Roberts, 18, of Decatur was operating an all terrain vehicle, going eastbound on River Road when she didn’t make the curve at the intersection with Mockingbird Lane, left the roadway and crashed head on into a tree. Neighbors found Roberts passed out and called for help. A  helicopter ambulance was dispatched and landed on Mockingbird Lane in the residential neighborhood. Reid said Roberts was flown mainly for precautionary reasons, and he did not believe the injuries were life threatening. The accident was reported shortly after 2 a.m.

STUDENT RAMS CAR WITH PICKUP – In what appears to be a case of parking lot rage a student at Decatur High School used his pickup as a battering ram after lunch Thursday. According to witnesses, Josh Cummings, 17, plowed his pickup into the back of a car that had parked in a spot he wanted in a student parking section at the high school. The impact shoved the parked car completely over the curb in front of it and caused extensive damage to the back end of the vehicle. High school senior Reid Metcalf, 18, and another passenger were still seated in the car when Cummings crashed into it. There were at least three other people in the pickup. There were no serious injuries reported, but Metcalf did go to Wise Regional for an evaluation after suffering back pain from the incident. “We’re still looking into whether it was intentional or not,” said Police Chief Rex Hoskins. “We don’t think it was an accident But it’s still early in the investigation and there are a lot of witnesses we still need to talk to.” Since many students were returning to class after lunch the parking lot was crowded, and students gathered around the wreckage. If investigators find the wreck was intentional Cummings could face a charge ranging from criminal mischief to aggravated assault with a motor vehicle, both potential felonies.

ELECTION DAY SATURDAY – City council and school board elections are Saturday, and polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Local entities with contested races include Chico ISD, the City of Decatur and Decatur ISD, Northwest ISD and the City of Rhome. Voting locations are the Chico Elementary School library, Decatur City Hall, Rhome City Hall and the Newark Municipal Building. In early voting, 363 ballots were cast in the Decatur city and school elections, 211 in Chico and 99 in Rhome. Vote totals were not available for the Northwest School Board race. Final results will be posted Saturday night as they are available at WCMessenger.com.

WEAR PINK – Attendants of tonight’s Butterfield Stage Days Karl Klement PRCA Ram Rodeo are encouraged to wear pink in support of breast cancer awareness. The grand entrance is at 7:30 p.m. at Bridgeport Riding Club, 691 FM 920.

BUTTERFIELD FESTIVAL – The Bridgeport Area Chamber of Commerce’s Butterfield Stage Days Festival is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow at Harwood Park. The event includes stagecoach rides, petting zoo, kiddie train, face painting, stickhorse rodeo, bounce houses and carnival for the kids; Bridgeport Idol, Rodeo Pink 5K run, Bingo, pancake-eating contest and rib cook-off competitions; food and craft vendors, gunfighters and live entertainment. For more information, call (940) 683-2076 or visit www.bridgeportchamber.org.

BOONSTOCK – The Boonsville/Balsora Volunteer Fire Department’s annual “Boonstock” fundraising event is Saturday in downtown Boonsville. The event will begin with a barbecue luncheon at noon followed by a charity auction. The event will feature a bounce house for children and a chance to meet your local fire/EMS personnel.

PBR CHALLENGE TICKETS – Tickets for the J.W. Hart PBR Challenge go on sale today. The event is 7:30 p.m. June 8 at the Wise County Sheriff’s Posse Arena. Tickets are available at Wise Wireless and at wcchallenger.org.

ATHLETIC COMPETITION – Lineman’s Challenge is 10 a.m. tomorrow at JRobs in Decatur. Participation is free, and seven schools are participating. Come cheer for your school’s athletes.

ART SHOW – The Wise County Art Association 2013 Mother’s Day Youth Art Show is 1-4 p.m. Saturday at the Decatur Civic Center. Registration is 3-6 p.m. today.

RELAY BAKE SALE – Amy’s Angels Relay for Life team is having a bake sale 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday at Butterfield Stage Days in Bridgeport.

CHOCOLATE STRAWBERRIES – Legend Bank’s Relay For Life team, Carolyn’s Cookie Monsters, will sell chocolate-dipped strawberries today at its Decatur and Alvord branches. Cost is $15 a dozen.

CAPTAINS MEETING – Relay For Life of Wise County team captains meet 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 13, at Candlewood Suites in Decatur. At this final gathering before the event on Friday, May 17, team captains will pick up T-shirts, turn in baskets for the silent auction and last-minute money and sign up for campsites and trash pick-up. For more information, call Stephanie at (940) 393-3165.

RELAY FIREFIGHTERS – To signify the weight cancer patients and their families carry, members of the Decatur Fire Department will walk laps in full protective ensemble for $25 at Relay For Life of Wise County on Friday, May 17. The firefighter’s Relay team is also selling T-shirts for $20. To sponsor a lap or order a shirt, contact any Decatur firefighter or stop by the station at 1705 S. State St.

MISSIONS AUCTION – The Community Church Youth Group will have an auction 10 a.m. Saturday at the Women’s Building at the Wise County Sheriff’s Posse grounds to raise money for a mission trip to Jamaica. Donations are appreciated and will receive a tax-deductible receipt.

FUNERALS – Service for Mary Martha Turnipseed, 62, of Chico is pending at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.

GRAVESIDE service for Butch South, 86, of Chico is 11 a.m. Saturday at Chico Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at Hawkins-Bridgeport.

FUNERAL for Ambrose B. Plucker, 91, of Bridgeport is 3 p.m. Saturday at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Bridgeport. Graveside service is 1 p.m. Wednesday at Oakhill Cemetery in Neenah, Wis. Family visitation is 2 p.m. today at the funeral home.

GRAVESIDE service for Austin Anderson, 32, of Wizard Wells is 11 a.m. Saturday at Wizard Wells Cemetery. Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.

In what appears to be a case of parking lot rage a student at Decatur High School used his pickup as a battering ram after lunch Thursday. According to witnesses, Josh Cummings, 17, plowed his pickup into the back of a car that had parked in a spot he wanted in a student parking section at the high school. The impact shoved the parked car completely over the curb in front of it and caused extensive damage to the back end of the vehicle. High school senior Reid Metcalf, 18, and another passenger were still seated in the car when Cummings crashed into it. There were at least three other people in the pickup. There were no serious injuries reported, but Metcalf did go to Wise Regional for an evaluation after suffering back pain from the incident. “We’re still looking into whether it was intentional or not,” said Police Chief Rex Hoskins. “We don’t think it was an accident … But it’s still early in the investigation and there are a lot of witnesses we still need to talk to.” Since many students were returning to class after lunch the parking lot was crowded, and students gathered around the wreckage. If investigators find the wreck was intentional Cummings could face a charge ranging from criminal mischief to aggravated assault with a motor vehicle, both potential felonies.