TOPS IN CONSERVATION – The Wise Soil and Water Conservation District was honored as the Outstanding Conservation District last night at the Area V Conservation Awards Banquet in Stephenville. The district was selected from 41 districts in 51 counties. On hand to accept the award were board members Cody Gillispie, Bill Fennell, Paul Wood, Wayne Long and Merlin Remmele. District Conservationist Darnell Willis of Decatur received a special award for his outstanding work.

HELP ALLSUP WIN – After being nominated by his students, Decatur High School ag teacher, Jim Allsup, has been named one of 12 finalists in the Justin Boots All-Star Ag Teacher Contest. Help him win the title, $5,000 and a pair of boots by voting for him through the month of May at www.facebook.com/justinboots/app_358967940887043.

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, May 17, 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.

BUSINESS SEMINAR – Bridgeport Economic Development Corp. and the Tarleton State University Small Business Development Center will host a seminar 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday in the lecture hall at Weatherford College Wise County. Topics to be discussed include sales steps to success, handling objections, improving customer service, pacing the customer and selling to different personalities. Space is limited. To register, call (940) 683-3490.

CEMETERY ASSOCIATION MEETING – The annual meeting of the Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery Association is 11:30 a.m. Saturday. There will be a covered dish luncheon following the meeting. For more information call (940) 627-2807.

RODEO PINK 5K RUN/WALK – The Rodeo Pink 5K Run/Walk is 9 a.m. Saturday during the Butterfield Stage Days Festival in Bridgeport. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Harwood Park Pavilion. For more information contact Amber Fogelman at (940) 683-3404 or afogelman@cityofbridgeport.net.

SUPPORT THE SENIORS – The Rhome Senior Citizens Center will hold a garage sale 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday at 401 Hickory St. in Rhome.

YOUTH ART SHOW – The Wise County Art Association is having a youth art show 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Decatur Civic Center. Admission to view the show is free. Awards will be presented at 4 p.m. Saturday and winning artwork will remain on display through Sunday for the Mother’s Day luncheon at the Civic Center. For more information, call or email Barbara Pinkerton at (940) 627-3127, decaturartschool@yahoo.com or Joan Christensen at (940) 389-1214, jctk68@gmail.com.

FOOD DRIVE – The National Association of Letter Carriers is having its annual food drive Saturday. Leave non-perishable items at your mailbox, and the items will be picked up by your mail carrier. All items will be donated locally to Wise Area Relief Mission just in time to stock the pantry for school children who will not be provided meals at school during the summer.

FUNERAL – Service for Joe Luis Rivera, the infant son of Jose Luis and Nora Castruita Rivera, is pending at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.

EARLY VOTING ENDS TODAY – Early voting for the May 11 city council and school board elections ends today. Local entities with contested races include Chico ISD, the City of Decatur and Decatur ISD, Northwest ISD and the City of Rhome. Polls are open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. for Decatur, Northwest and Rhome voters and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. in Chico.

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.

PROM FUNDRAISER – The Boyd senior class is having a fundraiser at CiCi’s in Decatur 4-9 p.m. Thursday. A portion of every receipt turned in will benefit prom.

ADOPTION EVENT – Wise County Animal Shelter is full, and it’s having an emergency adoption event 10 a.m.-4 p.m. today at Tractor Supply in Decatur. Dogs and cats will be available for adoption. All the cats have had their shots and have been spayed or neutered.

BAKE SALE – The Living Word Teaching Center is having a craft and bake sale to benefit its food bank 9 a.m. until sold out Saturday at Justin Super Save on Farm Road 407.

PRCA RAM RODEO – The 7th Annual Butterfield Stage Days Karl Klement PRCA Ram Rodeo is Friday and Saturday at Bridgeport Riding Club Arena, 691 FM 920. Grand entry is 7:30 p.m. each night. Tickets are $10 in advance at the Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce or $12 at the gate. Children 5 and under are free. For more information, call (940) 683-2076.

RODEO PINK DAY – Friday is Rodeo Pink Day in Wise County. Wear pink that day to show your support for breast cancer awareness and education in Wise County. Rodeo Pink merchandise is available at Ink-n-Stitch in Bridgeport and iCopy in Decatur. Remember to wear pink to the Rodeo Pink performance of the Butterfield Stage Days Karl Klement Ram PRCA Rodeo on Friday night.

BENEFIT PERFORMANCE – The Artisan Center Theater will perform The Hiding Place (The Corrie ten Boom Story) at 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 18, 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.

BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT – Bridgeport Class of 2017 will host a 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament May 18 at the Bridgeport Middle School. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. with play beginning at 9. Cost is $100 per team. Entries must be received by noon Friday. For more information, call Deneise Walker at (940) 389-5420, Brittany Sutherland at (940) 389-8701, Julie VanHoose at (940) 577-2380 or Nicole Johnson at (940) 389-7197.

BAND BOOSTER OFFICERS – Bridgeport Band Boosters are accepting officer nominations until Friday. Email nominations to bhsbandboosters@yahoo.com.

GIVING BACK – Organizers of Bridgeport Gives Back are looking for volunteers to help with various community service projects Wednesday, May 15, to Sunday, May 19. 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.

BRIDGEPORT CITY – Bridgeport city council members will discuss repairs to sidewalks along Halsell Street, an itemized list of intended uses of the 2011 Texas Recreation Trails Fund grant at the city’s OHV Park and closing a couple of alleys in the city, during the workshop portion of their meeting tonight. Action items include reviewing amendments to the personnel manual and purchasing bullet-proof vests for the city’s police department. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 900 Thompson St.

CHICO CITY COUNCIL – The Chico City Council meets at 7 tonight at Chico City Hall. Agenda items for discussion or action include the P&K Stone air permit application, bids for 2012 paving improvements, Texas 101/Farm Road 1810 improvements, Meals on Wheels usage of the cafeteria, TXU/Oncor franchise agreement renewal and regular city department reports.

RHOME WOMAN KILLED IN WRECK – A wrong-way driver caused a head-on collision in Denton Saturday morning that claimed the life of a Rhome woman. According to the Denton Record-Chronicle, a car driven by Juan E. De La Cruz Jr., 25, was southbound in the northbound lanes of Interstate 35 near Farm Road 2449 when it struck an SUV driven by Amy Lynne Morrow, 55, of Rhome. Both drivers were killed. The drivers of two other cars who collided while trying to avoid the accident were taken to Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Denton and are in good condition, according to the DRC story. The accident caused the road to be closed for about four hours.

COUNTY HAS A FIRE MARSHAL – Charles Beard of Weatherford formally accepted the position of county fire marshal Friday and will start next Monday. Beard has 25 years experience in public safety. He was a firefighter with the Weatherford Fire Department from 1989 to 2012. The position has been vacant since the resignation of former fire marshal Marc Dodd last April. Read more in the weekend Wise County Messenger on news stands now.

STATE GOLF RESULTS – The Decatur boys golf team finished fifth Friday at the Class 3A UIL state tournament in Austin. The team’s two-day total of 662 was six strokes behind Big Spring and Fredericksburg who tied for third. Andrews won gold with 631, a single stroke ahead of Argyle. The Bridgeport girls golf team finished 10th. A two-day total of 859 left the Sissies tied with Cuero. Orangefield finished ninth with an 837. Andrews took the overall girls title with a 652. Read more in the weekend Messenger on news stands now.

PARADISE LUNCHEON – The Paradise Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon is noon today at Paradise City Hall.

ALVORD PROJECT GRADUATION – The 2013 Alvord Powder Puff and Pass, Punt and Kick Competition will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, May 17, at the AHS Football Field. Pass, Punt and Kick registration forms are located at both AMS and AES offices and are due by Wednesday, May 15, or you may register at the gate the night of the event. There will be a raffle for front row seating on a comfy couch with food and beverage (non-alcoholic). Register for the raffle the night of the event at the gate. All proceeds benefit the AHS Class of 2013 Project Graduation. Concessions will be open.

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. Register by May 10 to receive a free T-shirt. All entries must be received by May 23. Call Coach Coffman for more information at (806) 252-6660.

RODEO PINK – Breast cancer survivors and those who are battling breast cancer are invited to attend and be recognized at Friday’s Butterfield Stage Days Rodeo. The event, sponsored by Rodeo Pink and the rodeo committee, will include a designated section for survivors/fighters and their families. Survivors/fighters will be admitted for free. For more information contact Amber Fogelman at (940) 683-3404 or afogelman@cityofbridgeport.net.

BRIDGEPORT IDOL – The 9th Annual Bridgeport Idol Contest is noon-3 p.m. Saturday at the Harwood Park Pavilion. Age categories are 12 and under and 13 and over. Entries must be received by 3 p.m. Wednesday. For information, call Susan Miller at (940) 366-0186.

BRIDGEPORT KINDERGARTEN ROUNDUP – Bridgeport Elementary School is holding Kindergarten Roundup 9 a.m.-2 p.m. today through Thursday for all incoming 2013-2014 students who will turn 5 on or before Sept. 1. You will need to bring a birth certificate, social security card, shot record, proof of residence and parent picture ID. Current PK students do not need to register. Call the school at (940) 683-5955 for more information.

ALVORD ROUNDUP – Alvord Elementary will host their Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten Round Up for two weeks, Monday through Thursday, May 6-9, and May 13-16, from 8:30-10:30 a.m. 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.

PTO MEETING – Young Elementary PTO meets at 6 tonight in the school’s library.

FUNERAL - Service for Richard F. Puckett, 81, of Pittsburg, formerly of Wise County is 1 p.m. today at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at Jim Ned Cemetery.

WARMER TODAY, BUT STILL COOL – Unseasonably cool temperatures are expected to stick around for the next few days, although it is expected to be warmer than yesterday when the temperature stayed in the mid-40s throughout the day. The high temperature today through Sunday is expected to be around 65 degrees.

STATE GOLF – The Decatur boys golf team sat in fourth place after shooting a 330 at the end of a blustery first round Thursday at the 3A state tournament at Jimmy Clay Golf Course in Austin. Top ranked Andrews finished the round with the lead at 316. Argyle shot 319 and Longview Spring Hill 330. Decatur’s Drew Jones is tied for second overall with 77. Pleasonton’s James Sandoval leads all scores with 73. The boys teed off this morning at 7:45 for the second and final round where conditions are predicted to stay cold and windy. After the first round of the tournament the Bridgeport Sissies sit in ninth position. Bridgeport shot a team total 428. They are three strokes ahead of 10th place Cuero and 16 behind eighth place Sealy. Andrews leads after one round with a 337. Lexi Read led the Sissies with a 91 and Tiffany Hawkins fired a 97. Remi Swensson shot a 111 and Haley Shinn had a 129. Bridgeport will begin the second round Friday at 11:40 a.m.

COMIN’ THROUGH – About 50 antique cars from all over Texas will make a brief stop in Decatur on Saturday between 8-10 a.m. They will stop for photos at the historic Wise County courthouse before traveling north on FM 730. The “Texas Tour” is being hosted this year by the Texas Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America. The tour will begin at the Marriott Hotel and Golf Course across from the Texas Motor Speedway at 7:30 a.m. and follow Texas 114, FM 156, FM 407 and FM 2264 on the way to Decatur.

CRUISE NIGHTS – Cruise Nights on the Courthouse Square is 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday in Decatur. Registration is 4 to 7 p.m. Cost is $10. Judging is at 7 p.m., and awards will be presented 8 to 8:30. Relay Reverb featuring Steel ‘N Hubcaps is 6 to 9 p.m. For more information, come by the Decatur Visitors Center, 106 S. Trinity St., or call 940-627-6158.

BARBECUE DINNER – Greenwood-Slidell Buyers Association is having a barbecue dinner 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the Greenwood pavilion. For more information, call Brian Moore at 940-627-4373.

VACCINATION CLINIC – A low-cost vaccination clinic is 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Wise County Animal Shelter.

DRESSES NEEDED – The Hills Nursing and Rehab in Decatur needs prom dresses in all sizes for its “Senior Prom” Tuesday, May 14. If you have dresses or derby hats to donate, bring them to The Hills, 201 E. Thompson St., by May 10. For more information, call Susie Cordell at 940-627-2165 or Amy Rebstock at 940-577-3305.

CEMETERY ASSOCIATION – The annual meeting of the Lone Star Cemetery Association is 10 a.m. Saturday at the cemetery.

PARADISE LUNCHEON – The Paradise Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon is noon Monday at Paradise City Hall. Lunch, catered by Sagebrush Cafe, is $10 a plate. Speaker is Keitha Story-Stephenson with BlueSky Wellness Center. Donations for raffle prizes are appreciated. Deadline to RSVP to info@paradisetexaschamber.org is today.

EDUCATION GRANTS – The Boyd Education Foundation will announce winners of its inaugural grants at Sweet Rewards Night, 7 to 9 tonight at Boyd High School. Byron Nelson High School Principal Linda Parker is guest speaker. The event will include an art show by Boyd students and a silent auction. Starbucks will provide coffee, and SweetWater Baking Co. will provide cupcakes. Admission is free.

COMIC BOOK DAY – The Decatur Public Library will host Free Comic Book Day, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Attendees of all ages will enjoy free comics, crafts, a superhero photo booth, and at 11 a.m., a demonstration on how to make a Bento Box lunch. Call the library at (940) 393-0290 for more information.

BLOOD DRIVE – A community blood drive by Carter BloodCare is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. today at the south door of Wal-Mart in Decatur.

FUNERALS – Graveside service for Johnnie L. White, 96, of Runaway Bay is 11 a.m. Saturday at Fairlawn Cemetery in Comanche, Okla. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.

MEMORIAL mass for David L. Brown, 74, of Sunset is 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in Bowie. He was the brother of Mary Jane Strole of Runaway Bay.

SERVICE for W.R. “Dickie” Spencer, 70, formerly of Boyd is pending at Rosser Funeral Home in Cleburne. He was the brother of Tommy Spencer of Boyd.

PAIR INVOLVED IN CHASE INDICTED – Two men who led law enforcement officers on a frenzied chase in which all the vehicles caught fire were indicted last week by a Wise County grand jury on charges of evading arrest with a vehicle and criminal mischief and theft, both $1,500 to $20,000. David McMurry, 28, of Chico and Shannon Hood, 36, of Sunset are alleged to have stolen a trailer and welder from an oil lease on Farm Road 1655 Feb. 3. Sheriff’s officers attempted to stop the duo, but they plowed through a fence in the 2000 block of County Road 1560 northeast of Chico. The pickup, with the trailer bumping behind it, tore across a pasture, crashed into a culvert and caught fire. Hood and McMurry fled on foot, and the officers abandoned their vehicles to pursue the suspects. During this time, the fire spread and burned the officers’ vehicles. Hood was caught a few hours later nearby, while McMurry was arrested that night hiding in a motel room in Tarrant County.

WINTER RETURNS – Wise County welcomed winter weather back as a front rolled in last night. There’s a 40 percent chance of rain today with a high near 44, and a northwest wind will whip through the county at 25 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. The National Weather Service has issued a freeze warning for tonight with the possibility of setting record lows for this time of year.

APRIL SHOWERS FEW AND FAR BETWEEN – Wise County received measurable rainfall seven out of 30 days in April, although two of those days contained barely a trace. Overall totals include 2.9 inches for the month, below the average of 3.22 inches for the month, according to weather watcher Doyle Green of Decatur. Temperatures ranged from a high of 85 on April 15 to a low of 30 on April 24.

DEVON LOSS – Devon Energy Corp. reported a net loss of $1.4 billion for the first quarter of 2013. Devon blamed the loss on a $1.9 billion non-cash asset adjustment related to lower oil and natural gas liquids pricing. Devon said it continued to see strong oil production growth and said that total production of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids continued to increase. Devon production of natural gas in the Barnett Shale averaged 1.4 billions cubic feet per day.

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.

BLOOD DRIVE - A blood drive by Carter BloodCare is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow at the south door of Wal-Mart in Decatur.

VACCINATION CLINIC – A low-cost vaccination clinic is 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 4, at the Wise County Animal Shelter.

CEMETERY ASSOCIATION MEETINGS – The annual meeting of the Lone Star Cemetery Association is 10 a.m. Saturday, May 4, at the cemetery. ALSO, the Deep Creek Cemetery Association’s annual business meeting is noon Sunday at the cemetery. Bring a picnic lunch. Call 817-821-8608 for more information.

BASEBALL SENDOFF – Fans and supporters of the Paradise varsity baseball team are invited to help send off the team for the first playoff game against Maypearl at 4:45 p.m. Friday. Line up will be at the parking lot and street.

BOYD KINDERGARTEN ROUNDUP – Boyd Elementary School will hold its Spring Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Round-Up and Readiness Evaluations 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. today at Boyd Elementary School, 500 E. Morton. In order to qualify for kindergarten a student must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2013. Students eligible for kindergarten this August will participate in a readiness evaluation to determine placement and readiness for kindergarten. In addition, information concerning immunizations required for enrollment will be discussed. Students currently attending Pre-K in Boyd do not need to attend. In order to qualify for Pre-K a student must be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2013, reside in Boyd ISD and meet one of a list of requirements. For more information, call 940-433-9520.

WINNING PERFORMANCE – Home performances of the Paradise High School regional qualifying one-act play, “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” will be presented at 7 tonight and on Saturday at 7 p.m. in the PHS cafeteria. Admission is $3. Decatur High School Theatre Department will also present its regional qualifying play tonight. “A Company of Wayward Saints” will be presented at 7:30 p.m. at the DHS theater.

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER – A National Day of Prayer celebration will be held noon today on the courthouse lawn in Decatur. People are invited to pray for our nation, state and county. For more information, visit www.nationaldayofprayer.org.

JAZZ BAND PERFORMANCE – The Bridgeport High School Jazz Band will perform at 7 tonight at Yesterday’s in Bridgeport. There will also be a special performance by Cindy James.

FUNERALS – Memorial service for Rick Brown, 79, of Bridgeport is 2 p.m. today at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.

FUNERAL for Dorothy June Wagner, 72, of Decatur is 2 p.m. today at Cross Plains Church of Christ in Cross Plains with burial at Cross Plains Memorial Cemetery. Family visitation is 1 to 2 p.m. before the service. Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.

MASS of Christian burial for Blanca Irma Nunez, 75, of Decatur is 11 a.m. today at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Decatur with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery.

SERVICE is pending for Johnnie White, 96, of Runaway Bay at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.

PAYNE PLEADS TO TAKING WEAPON – Danny Scott Payne, 49, pleaded guilty Monday in 271st District Court in Decatur to taking a weapon from an officer, a state jail felony, and received a sentence of seven days in the county jail. He will not have to serve any additional time, however, since he spent seven days in jail prior to his conviction. Payne was arrested April 16, 2012, at the Alvord Express convenience store after getting into a scuffle with Wise County Sheriff Cpl. Neil Duncan. During the scuffle, Payne attempted to take Duncan’s stun gun away from the officer. In the process of trying to gain control of Payne, Duncan broke his hand. Payne was originally charged with aggravated assault against a public servant, a first degree felony. Read more in the midweek Wise County Messenger on news stands today.

WEATHER CHANGE COMING – After a few days with high temperatures in the 80s, a big change is expected tonight as a cold front is expected to drop overnight lows to near 47 degrees. That’s where the temperature is forecast to remain throughout the day Thursday. There is also a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms tonight and Thursday.

SGT. WHITE SCHOLARSHIP – Today is the deadline to submit applications for the Sgt. Randy White Memorial Scholarship. The award is open to any graduating senior in Wise County.

BLOOD DRIVE – A community blood drive by Carter BloodCare is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday at the south door of Wal-Mart in Decatur.

COMIC BOOK DAY – The Decatur Public Library will host Free Comic Book Day, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Attendees of all ages will enjoy free comics, crafts, a superhero photo booth, and at 11 a.m., a demonstration on how to make a Bento Box lunch. Call the library at (940) 393-0290 for more information.

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER – A National Day of Prayer celebration will be held noon Thursday on the courthouse lawn in Decatur. People are invited to pray for our nation, state and county. For more information, visit www.nationaldayofprayer.org.

SINGLES MEETING – The North Texas Singles Club meets at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Pizza Hut in Decatur. All singles are welcome. Joyce will be your greeter. For more information call (940) 627-6422.

JAZZ BAND PERFORMANCE – The Bridgeport High School Jazz Band will perform at 7 p.m. Thursday at Yesterday’s in Bridgeport. There will also be a special performance by Cindy James.

WINNING PERFORMANCE – Home performances of the Paradise High school regional qualifying one-act play, “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” will be presented on Thursday at 7 p.m. and on Saturday at 7 p.m. in the PHS cafeteria. Admission is $3.

YOUTH RALLY – Chico Middle School FCA is inviting all students grades 6-12 in Wise County to a Youth Rally today at the Chico High School Gym. All groups are welcome including FCA clubs, church youth groups and other students wanting to have fun worshiping the Lord. A free meal of hotdogs, chips and drinks will be served at 5 p.m., and the free concert and rally starts at 6. Concert is by praise Christian rock band the “RISE.” Testimonies will be given by band members and motivational speaker Ryan Roberts (former Baylor University quarterback). A love offering will be taken for the band. For more information call CMS at (940) 644-5550.

IN TODAY’S MESSENGER – The midweek Wise County Messenger on news stands today includes our annual Wise County Medical, Health and Wellness Directory. Also, candidates for city council and school board are featured with responses to our survey.

FUNERALS – Memorial service for Rick Brown, 79, of Bridgeport is 2 p.m. Thursday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.

MEMORIAL service for John Bailey, 64, of Lake Bridgeport is 10 a.m. today at Jones Family Funeral Home.

FUNERAL for Dorothy June Wagner, 72, of Decatur is 2 p.m. Thursday at Cross Plains Church of Christ in Cross Plains with burial at Cross Plains Memorial Cemetery. Family visitation is 1-2 p.m. before the service. Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.

MASS of Christian burial for Blanca Irma Nunez, 75, of Decatur is 11 a.m. Thursday at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Decatur with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-7 tonight at Coker-Hawkins. Rosary will be said at 7 following visitation.

CHANGES TO U.S. 81/287 SUBJECT OF MEETING – The Texas Department of Transportation is holding a public hearing 7 tonight at Decatur City Hall in regards to planned improvements for the U.S. 81/287 and Business 81/287 intersection. Displays will be available for viewing at 6:30. U.S. 81/287 will be elevated to go over the business route. The business route will be dropped about 8 feet and extended to connect with County Road 4127. The change would also move the Farm Road 2264 intersection by extending the road northward to Business 81/287.

TIPPED TRUCK CAUSES DELAYS – An 18-wheeler fell over sideways in the northbound lanes of U.S. 81/287 near County Road 4421 last night around 10. The driver of the vehicle suffered minor lacerations to the face. The wreck had traffic shut down for a time as the truck was lifted back upright.

ATHLETES IN ACTION – The Wise County Olympathon is 9 a.m.-2 p.m. today at Bull Stadium in Bridgeport.

PARADISE KINDERGARTEN ROUNDUP – Children who will be 5 on or before Sept. 1, 2013, are eligible to attend Kindergarten Roundup for Paradise Elementary Friday. Children with a last name starting with A-L may attend 9-11:30 a.m., and children with a last name starting with M-Z may attend 1-3 p.m. Activities planned will familiarize children and parents with the school and learning environment. A tour of the school will be conducted, and academic readiness, speech and gross motor screenings will be conducted.

BOYD KINDERGARTEN ROUNDUP – Boyd Elementary School will hold its Spring Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Round-Up and Readiness Evaluations 3:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday at Boyd Elementary School, 500 E. Morton in Boyd. In order to qualify for kindergarten a student must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2013. Students eligible for kindergarten this August will participate in a readiness evaluation to determine placement and readiness for kindergarten. In addition, information concerning immunizations required for enrollment will be discussed. Students currently attending Pre-K in Boyd do not need to attend. In order to qualify for Pre-K a student must be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2013, reside in Boyd ISD and meet one of a list of requirements. For more information, call (940) 433-9520.

BRIDGEPORT GARDEN CLUB – Members of the Bridgeport Garden Club will tour the Rose Kind Earth Garden behind the Bridgeport Intermediate School on their own at 11:30 a.m. Thursday. At noon the Club will meet at the Presbyterian Church in Bridgeport for their last meeting of the year. New officers will be installed. A report will be given concerning The Rose Kind Rose Garden Test Gardens by Pat Hiler, Garden Club member and third grade teacher Patsy Valentine concerning this ongoing project.

PRCA RAM RODEO – The seventh-annual Butterfield Stage Days Karl Klement PRCA Ram Rodeo is Friday and Saturday, May 10 and 11, at Bridgeport Riding Club Arena, 691 FM 920. Grand entry is 7:30 p.m. each night. Tickets are $10 in advance at the Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce or $12 at the gate. Children 5 and under are free. For more information, call (940) 683-2076.

SWEET REWARDS NIGHT – The Boyd Education Foundation will announce winners of grants at Sweet Rewards Night, 7-9 p.m. Friday at Boyd High School. The event will honor winners of the foundation’s inaugural grants. Byron Nelson principal Linda Parker is guest speaker. The event will include an art show by Boyd students and a silent auction. Starbucks will provide coffee, and SweetWater Baking Co. will provide cupcakes. Admission is free.

STICK HORSE RODEO – The Butterfield Stage Days Stick Horse Rodeo, for cowboys and cowgirls 6 and under, is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 11, at Bridgeport’s Harwood Park. Sign-ups start at 10:15 a.m. Events include best costume, bronc bustin’ and barrel racin’. For more information, call (940) 683-3404 or email afogelman@cityofbridgeport.net.

COMMUNITY HEALTH EDUCATION – Governor’s Ridge and Angels Care Home Health will host the second in a series of community education sessions 10:30-11:30 a.m. today at Governor’s Ridge, 300 E. Devereaux St. in Decatur. The topic is “enjoying fitness at any age.” There will be refreshments and a complimentary lunch following the seminar. RSVP at (940) 627-1104 or RSVP@governorsridge.com.

CORRECTION – Last Wednesday’s Messenger story, “Ross theft trial delayed … again,” incorrectly stated that Jana Jones was district attorney in 1997 when charges were filed against Terry Ross for aggravated assault family violence with a deadly weapon. In fact, local attorney Barry Green was district attorney at that time. Current District Attorney Greg Lowery said there is nothing on file in his office related to the incident except that it was “rejected by the D.A.”

FUNERALS – Service for Dorothy Wagner, 72, of Decatur is pending at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.

MASS of Christian burial for Blanca Irma Nunez, 75, of Decatur is 11 a.m. Thursday at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Decatur with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-7 p.m. Wednesday at Coker-Hawkins. Rosary will be said at 7 p.m.

MEMORIAL service for John Bailey, 64, of Lake Bridgeport is 10 a.m. Wednesday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.

MEMORIAL service for Richard J. Brown, 79, of Bridgeport is pending at Jones Family Funeral Home.

FUNERAL for Dan Franklin Malone, 85, of Newark is 2 p.m. Wednesday at First Baptist Church of Newark with burial at Aurora Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at Mount Olivet Funeral Home in Fort Worth.

FUNERAL for Tonni S. Wittsche, 49, of Decatur is 10 a.m. Wednesday at Moore Funeral Home in Arlington.

4 INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE/PICKUP COLLISION – A married couple injured after their motorcycle collided into the side of a pickup early Saturday evening on U.S. 81/287 south of Decatur are expected to make full recoveries. The driver, Roger Ferguson, the pastor of First Baptist Church in Justin, suffered several dislocated bones in the wreck. He was flown to JPS Hospital in Fort Worth. His wife Marla was ejected from the bike according to one witness. She has since been taken out of ICU at Wise Regional in Decatur and is now in stable condition. The couple was southbound on U.S. 81/287 when a pickup pulled out in front of them near NRS Trailers. The motorcycle, which was traveling 55 to 60 mph, struck the rear driver’s side tire with such impact it tore the wheel off the truck and spun the pickup 180 degrees counter-clockwise, leaving it immobile and sitting in a ditch in the median. The driver of the pickup, Brandie Hood, and her husband, Jerry, both of Chico, were uninjured in the wreck. Three children were seated in the back seat of the truck. Two were taken to Cook Children’s in Fort Worth after they complained of soreness. Hood told DPS officers she didn’t see the motorcycle coming. Any potential charges, such as failure to yield, are still pending investigation.

EARLY VOTING BEGINS – Early voting starts today for the May 11 city council and school board elections. Only a few local entities have contested races: Chico ISD, the City of Decatur and Decatur ISD, Northwest ISD and the City of Rhome. Early voting runs today through May 7 and hours for Decatur, Northwest and Rhome are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except Tuesday, April 30, and Tuesday, May 7. The polls are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. those days, as they will be on election day. The poll in Chico is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. There are no extended hours. Read more in the weekend Wise County Messenger on news stands now.

TOP HONORS – The Decatur High School journalism program added more honors during the Texas Interscholastic League Press Conference in Austin over the weekend. The newspaper, on-line and year book staffs brought home 39 individual honors while senior Cristin Morgan received the Josten Scholar Award. The on-line version of the school newspaper received a silver award and the print version a bronze award at the event, ranking the DHS journalism program among the tops in the state. Cindy Berry is the journalism teacher at the high school.

REGIONAL TRACK – Several local track athletes will be headed to state after their performance at regional competition this weekend. Decatur’s Haley Dennard won first place in the 800 meters, and Nicole Neighbors finished second in both the 100 hurdles and 300 hurdles. Northwest had a trio of first place winners including Kellee McCann in the 3,200, Zach Kirkland in the 800 and Desiree Freier in pole vault. Kiarra Simpson won second place in discus. Alvord’s Savannah Williams also advanced to state in the 800.

HOMES FOR WOUNDED WARRIORS – When the J. W. Hart Professional Bull Riders event comes around on June 8 there will be a presentation of up to five homes for wounded military veterans thanks to a major fund raising event by WC Challenger Charities. An estimated 170 persons attended an event Saturday at the First Baptist Church in Decatur where two wounded veterans – Brandon Blackwood and Jerimiah Frost – told how much the homes they had received through the Military Warrior Support Foundation had meant to their families. Andrew Rottner of WC Challenger Charities said that money for three homes had been secured and the drive was only $33,000 short to provide five homes to be presented during the bull riding event.

COMMUNITY HEALTH EDUCATION – Governor’s Ridge and Angels Care Home Health will host the second in a series of community education sessions 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesday at Governor’s Ridge, 300 E. Devereaux St. in Decatur. The topic is “enjoying fitness at any age.” There will be refreshments and a complimentary lunch following the seminar. RSVP at (940) 627-1104 or RSVP@governorsridge.com.

PHANTOM BALL – Wise Hope Shelter’s annual Phantom Ball fundraiser continues through the end of the month. Buy a ticket or sponsor this “non-event,” and support programs provided by Wise County Domestic Violence Task Force. Mail contributions to P.O. Box 569, Decatur, TX 76234 or drop by 608 N Bus. 81/287 in Decatur. Call (940) 626-4585 for more information.

POETRY CRAFTERNOON – The Decatur Public Library is celebrating National Poetry Month with a teen Poetry Crafternoon 4-6 p.m. Tuesday. Participants will enjoy poetry-inspired crafts such as book spine poetry, coffee cozys and more. Ages 12 and up are invited. Call (940) 393-0290 for more details.

RETIRED EDUCATOR MEETING – Wise County Retired School Personnel meets at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Decatur Civic Center. All active and retired school personnel are invited. Call (940) 575-2341 to register.

GOSPEL SINGING – The monthly Gospel Opry is at 7 tonight in the G. C. Rann Little Theater on the second floor of the Wise County Heritage Museum on South Trinity Street in Decatur. Admission is free, but an offering will be accepted toward the expenses of the Museum.

4-H FUNDRAISER FOR RELAY – Join Wise County 4-Hers 4-8 tonight at CICi’s pizza as they raise money for their Relay for Life Team.

FUNERALS – Memorial service for John Bailey, 64, of Lake Bridgeport is 10 a.m. Wednesday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.

SERVICES for Dorothy Wagner, 72, and Blanca Nunez, 75, both of Decatur are pending at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.

MEMORIAL service for Donnie Spurlock, 55, of Rhome is 10 a.m. today at Center Point Church in North Richland Hills. Coker-Hawkins is handling arrangements.

FUNERAL for Tonni S. Wittsche, 49, of Decatur is 10 a.m. Wednesday at Moore Funeral Home in Arlington.

A married couple injured after their motorcycle collided into the side of a pickup early Saturday evening on US 287 south of Decatur are expected to make full recoveries. The driver, Roger Ferguson, the pastor of First Baptist Church in Justin, suffered several dislocated bones in the wreck. He was flown to JPS Hospital in Fort Worth. His wife Marla was ejected from the bike according to one witness. She has since been taken out of ICU at Wise Regional in Decatur and is now in stable condition. The couple was southbound on US 287 when a pickup pulled out in front of them near NRS Trailers. The motorcycle, which was traveling 55 to 60 mph, struck the rear driver’s side tire with such impact it tore the wheel off the truck and spun the pickup 180 degrees counter-clockwise, leaving it immobile and sitting in a ditch in the median. The driver of the pickup, Brandie Hood, and her husband, Jerry, both of Chico, were uninjured in the wreck. Three children were seated in the back seat of the truck. Two were taken to Cook Children’s in Fort Worth after they complained of soreness. Hood told DPS officers she didn’t see the motorcycle coming. Any potential charges, such as failure to yield, are still pending investigation.

Four people were injured, including two children, when a pickup pulled out in front of a motorcycle late Saturday afternoon on US 287 a couple miles south of Decatur. The pickup pulled out in front of the southbound motorcycle in front of NRS Trailers. Two people were on the motorcycle, including a female back passenger who was hurled off the cycle after it struck the driver’s side of the pickup. Amazingly, her injuries weren’t life threatening and she was transported by ground ambulance to Wise Regional in Decatur. “The male driver of the motorcycle took the brunt of the impact,” said state trooper Fred Thornton. Traffic was halted as an AirEvac Lifeteam helicopter landed in the southbound lanes to transport the man to a Fort Worth hospital for serious injuries. The female driver and male passenger of the pickup were uninjured. There were three children in the backseat. Two of them complained of neck pain and were transported by ground ambulance to Cook Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth.

DEAN TO BE HONORED — Duane Durrett, dean of Weatherford College Wise County, will be named a Distinguished Alumnus of Weatherford College at its annual homecoming tomorrow. The honors will be presented at the Homecoming Awards Dinner 5 p.m. Saturday in the lobby of the college’s new Academic Building in Weatherford. The public is welcome. Tickets are $15 per person. For reservations, call (817) 598-6272 or email mjohnson@wc.edu.

STORMS POSSIBLE — The National Weather Service forecast calls for a 20 percent chance of showers this afternoon with a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms tonight.

BOOK SALE — A book sale hosted by Decatur Friends of the Library continues 10 a.m.-6 p.m. today and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. tomorrow at the library. Thousands of books, including fiction classics and bestsellers, as well as nonfiction on a wide variety of topics, are available for purchase. In addition, shoppers can find audio books, music CDs and movies. All items range in price from 25 cents to $1 with special prices for sets and special editions. Proceeds benefit the Decatur Library Foundation to support library programs, materials and services to the community.

RELAY BENEFIT — Swann’s Food Service will park its truck in front of Family Clinic in Bridgeport 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday and donate a portion of the sales to the Healing Hearts Relay For Life team.

ANIMAL ADOPTION — Wise County Animal Shelter is having a Spring Fling adoption event 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday at Lowe’s in Decatur. Adoption fees will be sponsored, and adopted dogs will receive a free microchip. Call (940) 627-7577 for more information.

5K RUN — The Skinnydipper 5K at Wildwood is 1 p.m. Saturday. Registration opens at 9 a.m., and the gate will lock at 12:30 p.m. The clothing optional cross country race attracts runners from all over the USA, Australia, Europe and Canada. A barbecue dinner is held after the race. For more details visit www.skinnydippersunrun.com.

SAFETY FEST — Wise Family Safety Fest is 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at Wise Regional Health System in Decatur. The event is free for all ages.

RAQUEL’S WINGS FUNDRAISER — The Raquel’s Wings For Life spring fundraiser is 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday at Decatur Municipal Airport. The non-profit organization provides cancer patients free transportation to medical centers within reasonable distance. For more information, visit www.raquelswingsforlife.com, email raquelswingsforlife@yahoo.com, or call Fabio or Amanda at (940) 627-1050 or (940) 399-9504.

BENEFIT GOLF TOURNAMENT — The 14th annual golf tournament benefiting United Way of Wise County is today at The Golf Club at The Resort on Eagle Mountain Lake. Registration opens at 11 a.m., and the shot-gun start is at 1 p.m. For more information, contact Andrew Rottner at (940) 627-8767 or arottner@northtxbank.com.

HOMES FOR VETERANS — A fundraising dinner to benefit WC Challenger Charities’ partnership with the Military Warriors Support Foundation is 5:30 p.m. Saturday at the First Baptist Church of Decatur. The group is raising money to provide homes to five wounded war veterans, and keys to those homes will be presented at the J.W. Hart PBR Challenge bull riding event June 8 in Decatur. To attend, RSVP to Bree at First Baptist by calling (940) 627-3235 or by emailing bree@firstdecatur.us.

BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER — Relay For Life team Justice Junkies is having a breakfast fundraiser Monday, and the deadline to order a meal is today. Call (940) 393-9869. Each meal is $5 and includes scrambled eggs, sausage, homestyle potatoes, a biscuit and drink. Meals can be picked up at the Sheriff’s Office or delivered.

BENEFIT GOLF SCRAMBLE — The first Amy’s Angels Golf Scramble is 1 p.m. Saturday at Hidden Creek Golf Course in Burleson. Proceeds benefit the Amy’s Angels Wise County Relay for Life Team in honor of breast cancer survivor Amy Hudson Cline. For more information, call Steve Cline at (817) 822-9171 or email clinesintexas@yahoo.com.

TEAM ROPING — 2014 Paradise High School Project Graduation fundraiser is Sunday at the Bridgeport Rodeo Arena on Farm Road 920. Registration begins at 1 p.m. It will be a Class #11 slide. For more information call (940) 393-9037.

PLANT SALE — Decatur FFA will have a plant sale 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at the Exxon on the corner of U.S. 81/287 and Farm Road 51. All plant material was planted and grown by students of the Decatur High School Horticulture Department.

FUNERALS — Service for Bradley Jeff Strange, 49, of Boyd is 2 p.m. Saturday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Boyd with burial at New Hope Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at the funeral home.

SERVICES are pending for Elaine Bauerle, 67, of Decatur and Donnie Spurlock, 55, of Rhome at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.

FUNERAL for Ricky Pigg, 51, of Bowie is 2 p.m. Monday at Prairie Branch Country Church with burial at Tage Cemetery in Bowie. He was the father of Felicia PIgg of Decatur.

GRAVESIDE service for Delores Valree Curnutte, 76, of Decatur is 3 p.m. today at Nocona Cemetery. Family visitation is at 2 p.m. at Jerry Woods Funeral Home Chapel in Nocona.

MEMORIAL service for Elgin Ray Pittman, 71, is 1 p.m. Tuesday at The New Covenant Family Church.

HEAD START CUTS WON’T AFFECT WISE – The Head Start and Early Head Start locations in Wise County will be spared from cuts in staffing and classes due to sequestration. The Texas Neighborhood Services board of directors met in Weatherford yesterday and considered three options to cut staff to meet the required 5 percent cut. They decided to cut three Head Start classes in Navarro County and two in Palo Pinto County. That decision was one of three options considered, and one option that was not chosen included cutting one Head Start classroom and one Early Head Start classroom in Wise County. Other approved cuts include a 5 percent reduction in health insurance rates, the elimination of an administrative assistant position and moving a community services position from full-time to part-time. The changes were approved by the TNS policy board, made up of parent representatives, last night. Texas Neighborhood Services serves nine counties.

PARADISE CHAMBER – Today’s meeting of the Paradise Chamber of Commerce is for board members only, noon at Jorge’s in downtown Paradise. The general luncheon meeting is noon Monday, May 6, at City Hall. For information, call (940) 433-3288.

JURY CANCELED – Today’s jury trial at Runaway Bay Municipal Court has been canceled. Jurors do not need to report.

5K RUN/WALK – The Rodeo Pink 5K Run/Walk is 9 a.m. Saturday, May 11, at the pavilion at Harwood Park in Bridgeport. Pre-register before April 26 to receive a T-shirt. Cost is $20. After April 26, fees increase to $25 and do not include a T-shirt. Registration forms are available at Bridgeport City Hall, Bridgeport Area Chamber of Commerce, iCopy in Decatur, Angel’s Health Care in Decatur or online at www.cityofbridgeport.net or www.bridgeportchamber.org.

HOMES FOR VETERANS – A fundraising dinner to benefit WC Challenger Charities’ partnership with the Military Warriors Support Foundation is 5:30 p.m. Saturday at the First Baptist Church of Decatur. The group is raising money to provide homes to five wounded war veterans, and keys to those homes will be presented at the J.W. Hart PBR Challenge bull riding event June 8 in Decatur. Lt. Gen. Leroy Sisco, founder and chief executive officer of the foundation will attend the dinner, and although the dinner is free, there will be an opportunity to make a donation at the end of the program. To attend, RSVP to Bree at First Baptist by calling (940) 627-3235 or by emailing bree@firstdecatur.us.

SINGLES MEETING - The North Texas Singles Club meets at Spicy Mexico in Bowie at 6 p.m. Saturday. All single adults are invited. Mini will be your greeter. For more information, call her at (940) 366-0100.

CANDIDATES AND CHILI - Meet the Candidates for Rhome City Council noon-5 p.m. Saturday at the Rhome Family Park, 400 South Virginia. Residents are invited to bring a pot of chili and participate in the First Chili Cook Off.

HEALTH FORUM – The Wise County Health Forum meets 9 a.m. today at Decatur City Hall Community Room.

CHURCH TO CELEBRATE 120 YEARS – New Salem Free Will Baptist Church in Decatur will celebrate its 120th anniversary at 2 p.m. Saturday. The celebration will include singing the first song sung at the time of organization, a history of the church, recognition of former pastors in attendance, the unveiling of a historical marker and the singing of “Precious Memories,” the song used at the closing of the first meeting. Refreshments will be served after the program.

RELAY BENEFIT – Swann’s Food Service will park its truck in front of Family Clinic in Bridgeport 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday and donate a portion of the sales to the Healing Hearts Relay For Life team.

RELAY BAKE SALES – RGA HomeCare Relay for Life Team will hold a bake sale 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday in front of their office located at 1411 Chico Highway in Bridgeport. ALSO, Campin’ 4 a Cure will hold a bake sale 7:30 a.m.-noon Saturday at Decatur Tire Store. Donations are welcome.

PLANT SALE – Decatur FFA will have a plant sale 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at the Exxon on the corner of U.S. 81/287 and Farm Road 51. They will be selling annuals, perennials, ground cover and assorted planted color containers. A select number of 3-gallon double knock out roses will be for sale. All plant material was planted and grown by students of the Decatur High School Horticulture Department.

SPRING BLING - The “Bling It On” fundraiser to benefit the Greenwood EE Club featuring Premier Designs Jewelry is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. today at the Decatur Church of Christ Family Room. For information, call (940) 626-4355.

FUNERAL – MEMORIAL mass for David L. Brown, 74, of Sunset is 11 a.m. May 4 at St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in Bowie. He was the brother of Mary Jane Strole of Runaway Bay.

RHOME HIRES FIRST RESPONDER – Rhome Volunteer Fire Department Chief Robert Pratt was hired Monday to serve as a full-time EMS/first responder for the city. The council voted 4-1 in favor of hiring Pratt for the newly-created position with Jo Ann Wilson casting the lone opposing vote. The council received several applications and narrowed down their choice to three final interviews before making their decision. Pratt will be stationed at the fire hall from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Read more in the midweek Wise County Messenger on news stands today.

A FRIEND IN NEED – Two Decatur fire engine companies are in West today to serve a 24-hour shift providing fire protection for the city. Captain Chris Caster is commander of the two crews. One of the engines will go to Waco Thursday to take part in the memorial parade for the firefighters and EMS personnel who died in the explosion and fire last week.

GIVE BLOOD – Weatherford College Wise County will host a blood drive 10 a.m.-4 p.m. today. The college is located at 502 Big Sandy Ct., off U.S. 380 between Bridgeport and Decatur.

BENEFIT GOLF TOURNAMENT – The 14th annual golf tournament benefiting United Way of Wise County is Friday at The Golf Club at The Resort on Eagle Mountain Lake. Registration opens at 11 a.m., and the shot-gun start is at 1 p.m. Entry fee is $400 per four-person team and includes a lunch buffet, range balls, goody bags and the chance to win door prizes. For directions to The Resort, call (817) 750-2178 or visit www.resortgolfclub.com. For more information, contact Andrew Rottner at (940) 627-8767 or arottner@northtxbank.com.

BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER – Relay For Life team Justice Junkies is having a breakfast fundraiser Monday, April 29. Each meal is $5 and includes scrambled eggs, sausage, homestyle potatoes, a biscuit and drink. Orders may be placed by calling (940) 393-9869 through Friday. They can be picked up at the Sheriff’s Office. Delivery is also available.

JURY CANCELED – Tomorrow’s jury trial at Runaway Bay Municipal Court has been canceled. Jurors do not need to report.

CLAY SHOOT – The sixth annual Barnett Shale Sporting Clay Shoot benefiting the Bridgeport Visitor Center is Thursday at Northwest OHV Park (2914 Texas 101 in Bridgeport). There will be a morning flight at 9 a.m. and afternoon at 1:30 p.m., and lunch will be served at noon. Fee is $100 a person or $500 for a five-man team. To sign up, call the Bridgeport Area Chamber of Commerce at (940) 683-2076.

PRCA RAM RODEO – The seventh-annual Butterfield Stage Days Karl Klement PRCA Ram Rodeo is Friday and Saturday, May 10 and 11, at Bridgeport Riding Club Arena, 691 FM 920. Grand entry is 7:30 p.m. each night. Tickets are $10 in advance at the Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce or $12 at the gate. Children 5 and under are free. For more information, call (940) 683-2076.

RELAY REVERB – The 2013 Relay For Life of Wise County committee will host Relay Reverb Saturday, May 4, in conjunction with Decatur Cruise Nights on the Courthouse Square. The car show begins at 5 p.m., with judging at 7 p.m. and Steel ‘N Hubcaps performing 6-9 p.m. Relay For Life merchandise will be sold.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM - Governor’s Ridge presents the Angels Care Community Education Series, Session 2, “Enjoying Fitness at any Age,” 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 30, in the Governor’s Ridge Terrace Dining Room. Refreshments will be served and a complimentary lunch will be provided following the seminar by reservation. RSVP to (940) 627-1104 or by email at RSVP@GovernorsRidge.com.

RODEO PINK RUN/WALK – Rodeo Pink will be holding a 5K Run/Walk 9 a.m. Saturday, May 11, in conjunction with Butterfield Stage Days in Bridgeport. Registration forms can be picked up at Bridgeport City Hall, the Bridgeport Area Chamber of Commerce, iCopy Decatur and Angels Health Care in Decatur. Pre-registration is $20 which includes the T-shirt and is due by Friday. All proceeds benefit breast cancer awareness and education in Wise County. For more information, call (940) 683-3404 or email afogelman@cityofbridgeport.net.

PARADISE CHAMBER – Tomorrow’s meeting of the Paradise Chamber of Commerce is for board members only, noon at Jorge’s in downtown Paradise. The general luncheon meeting is noon Monday, May 6, at City Hall. For information, call (940) 433-3288.

FUNERALS – Graveside service for Russell Duane Sprowls, 81, of Decatur is 2 p.m. today at Beaver Falls Mausoleum and Cemetery in Beaver Falls, Pa. Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.

FUNERAL for Jerry E. Davis, 80, of Decatur is 2 p.m. today at Hopewell Baptist Church in Alvord with burial at Hopewell Cemetery. Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.

MEMORIAL mass for David L. Brown, 74, of Sunset is 11 a.m. May 4 at St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in Bowie. He was the brother of Mary Jane Strole of Runaway Bay.

Terry Ross

ROSS TRIAL DELAYED - The trial for suspended Wise County Precinct 4 Commissioner Terry Ross is delayed again. Monday District Attorney Greg Lowery made the difficult decision to recuse himself after being reminded that he represented Ross in a criminal case 16 years ago. A special prosecutor will be appointed by 97th District Judge Roger Towery, who is presiding over the case, and it will be rescheduled at that time. It could be months before the matter is brought before a jury. After two previous delays, the trial was scheduled to start with jury selection Tuesday morning. Ross is facing charges of tampering with governmental records, theft of $500 to $1,500 by a public servant, and abuse of official capacity greater than $20 and less than $500. Read more in the midweek Wise County Messenger on news stands Wednesday.

PRAIRIE VIEW PRINCIPAL NAMED – Yolanda Wallace was named principal of Prairie View Elementary School in Rhome during a meeting of the Northwest ISD School Board Monday. Wallace is currently the assistant principal at Northwest ISD’s Clara Love Elementary in Fort Worth. She has also taught at NISD elementary schools since 2008. Wallace succeeds Sandy Conklin, who was named principal of NISD’s Beck Elementary School in Trophy Club.

PHONE ISSUES – The county’s 911 system was down for much of yesterday afternoon. Communications Manager Susan Gomez, with the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, said CenturyLink reported a cut fiber near Decatur, and the outage stretched as far as Palo Pinto County. Many local residents were without phone and Internet service at their homes or businesses. 911 service was restored just after 5 p.m.

BOOK SALE – Decatur Friends of the Library is having a book sale Wednesday through Saturday. Tonight (6 to 8 p.m.) is Friends Only Night. Current members and those wishing to join Friends of the Library may walk in, pay their dues and shop before the general public. Thousands of books, including fiction classics and bestsellers, as well as nonfiction on a wide variety of topics, will be available for purchase. In addition, shoppers can find audio books, music CDs and movies. All items range in price from 25 cents to $1 with special prices for sets and special editions. Proceeds benefit the Decatur Library Foundation to support library programs, materials and services to the community.

SAFETY FEST – Wise Family Safety First is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Wise Regional Health System in Decatur. There will be a bicycle obstacle course and helmet giveaway; swimming skills evaluations and life-saving demonstrations for kids ages 4 to 12 (bring your swim suit) accompanied by an adult; fire truck and helicopter tours; Wise County Sheriff’s Office Rescue Boat display; CPR and AED demonstrations; driving simulator; jump house; raffles; giveaways; free hot dogs and drinks. The event is free for all ages.

PHANTOM BALL – Wise Hope Shelter has kicked off its annual Phantom Ball. The fundraising activity continues throughout the month of April. Buy a ticket or be a sponsor for this “non-event.” All contributions support programs provided by Wise County Domestic Violence Task Force. Mail contributions to P.O. Box 569, Decatur or drop by 608 N. Trinity in Decatur. Paypal contributions can be made to wcdvtf@embarqmail.com. Call (940) 626-4585 for more information.

TEEN COURT – Wise County Teen Court meets at 5:30 tonight at the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, 200 Rook Ramsey Dr. in Decatur. For information call (940) 393-5923.

TEAM ROPING – 2014 Paradise High School Project Graduation fundraiser is Sunday at the Bridgeport Rodeo Arena on Farm Road 920. Registration begins at 1 p.m. It will be a Class #11 slide. For more information call (940) 393-9037.

WISE DANCE FUNDRAISER – Eat at CiCi’s Pizza today, mention Wise Dance Center or Wise Performing Arts Guild and 10 percent of all proceeds will go towards “The Arabian Nights” performance costs.

QUARTER AUCTION – Proceeds from tonight’s Bridgeport Quarter Auction will go the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Entry fee is $2 for a bidding paddle and entry for several door prizes. Raffle tickets will be available for $1 each or seven for $5. Half of the money goes to the winner, the other half to charity. Cash will be paid for your unwanted gold, silver and platinum, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit Relay for Life. The event, for ages 18 and older, is 6-8 p.m. at the Bridgeport Lions Club, 1107 8th St.

FUNERALS – Graveside service for Russell Duane Sprowls, 81, of Decatur is 2 p.m. Wednesday at Beaver Falls Mausoleum and Cemetery in Beaver Falls, Pa. Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.

NO SERVICE is scheduled at this time for Jerry Wayne Allen, 67, of Decatur. Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.

FUNERAL for Jerry E. Davis, 80, of Decatur is 2 p.m. Wednesday at Hopewell Baptist Church in Alvord with burial at Hopewell Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at Coker-Hawkins.

MEMORIAL mass for David L. Brown, 74, of Sunset is 11 a.m. May 4 at St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in Bowie. He was the brother of Mary Jane Strole of Runaway Bay.

The trial for suspended Wise County Precinct 4 Commissioner Terry Ross is delayed again. Monday District Attorney Greg Lowery made the difficult decision to recuse himself after being reminded that he represented Ross in a criminal case 16 years ago.

A special prosecutor will be appointed by 97th District Judge Roger Towery, who is presiding over the case, and it will be rescheduled at that time. It could be months before the matter is brought before a jury.

After two previous delays, the trial was scheduled to start with jury selection Tuesday morning. Ross is facing charges of tampering with governmental records, theft of $500 to $1,500 by a public servant, and abuse of official capacity greater than $20 and less than $500. Read more in the midweek Messenger on newsstands Wednesday.

Communications Manager Susan Gomez, with the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, reported at 12:45 p.m. Monday that the county’s 911 system is down. She said CenturyLink reported a cut fiber near Decatur, and the outage stretches as far as Palo Pinto County. Many local residents may be without phone and Internet service at their homes or businesses.

Gomez said citizens can make a call from one landline to another or to one cell phone from another, but a call from a cell phone to a landline will not go through and vice versa. If you have an emergency and you’re calling from a landline, call the Sheriff’s Office at 940-627-5971. If you’re calling from a cell phone, call the dispatch cell phone number at 940-210-5406.

Bridgeport dispatch can be reached by cell phone at 940-389-4388.

NEW RULES MIGHT NOT AFFECT WISE DRIVERS – Wise County has been placed in non-attainment zone for ozone standards by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, but it might avoid several rules regarding vehicle emissions. In the other eight counties in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex in the non-attainment zones, vehicles must undergo tailpipe testing as part of the yearly state inspection, costing drivers about $20 more. But the non-attainment area already has enough vehicles covered in the tailpipe testing program to meet the standards of the Federal Clean Air Act without adding Wise County vehicles to the list. Also, local gasoline retailers won’t have to adopt vapor recovery systems at the pump since the EPA found that the main contributor to pollutants that cause ground level ozone is large industry – primarily oil and gas – and not cars and trucks in Wise County. Read more in the weekend Wise County Messenger on news stands now.

HORSE CLINIC – Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, Wise County is hosting a Mare/Foal Clinic Tuesday at AGVantage Farm and Ranch, 1817 N U.S. 81/287, in Decatur. Registration is at 8:30 a.m., and the program is 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $20 and includes lunch. Speakers are Dr. Dennis Sigler and Dr. Clay Cavinder, Texas A&M AgriLife equine specialists, and topics include Broodmare Nutrition and Feeding Management, Getting the Mare Ready to Breed, Foaling Time is Here – Now What?, Nutrition and Management of Young Growing Horses, and Herd Health Care. To reserve your spot, call (940) 627-3341 or come by the Extension office, 206 S. State St., in Decatur.

COMPUTER UPGRADES – On Wednesday, the City of Bridgeport will not be taking utility payments, parks and recreation payments or issuing permits while the computer system is being upgraded. The municipal court will not being taking payments either.

BENEFIT EAT – Ten percent of today’s sales at Chili’s will go to Brooke’s Blossoming Hope for Childhood Cancer for patrons with a flier available at www.brookesblossoms.org. The foundation funds research and the delivery of blossoms headwear for children with cancer. Today is Brooke’s 6th birthday. She is the granddaughter of Juanita Moore of Decatur.

MAMMOGRAM SCREENINGS – The Mary’s Gift program at Wise Regional Health System will offer free mammogram screenings for eligible women Wednesday by appointment only. Call (940) 626-1384 to apply.

SGT. WHITE SCHOLARSHIP – Applications for the Sgt. Randy White Memorial Scholarship are available at the Bridgeport Police Department for any Wise County senior. Deadline is Wednesday, May 1.

RAQUEL’S WINGS FUNDRAISER – The Raquel’s Wings For Life spring fundraiser is 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Decatur Municipal Airport. The non-profit organization provides cancer patients free transportation to medical centers within reasonable distance. The benefit event includes barbecue brisket plates for $10, a balloon launch, bounce house, raffle and auction, local fire department and EMS displays and live music by Rod Ballou, Dakota Burns and Dillon Gentry. For more information, visit www.raquelswingsforlife.com, email raquelswingsforlife@yahoo.com, or call Fabio or Amanda at (940) 627-1050 or (940) 399-9504.

HOMES FOR VETERANS – A fundraising dinner to benefit WC Challenger Charities’ partnership with the Military Warriors Support Foundation is 5:30 p.m. Saturday at the First Baptist Church of Decatur. The group is raising money to provide homes to five wounded war veterans, and keys to those homes will be presented at the J.W. Hart PBR Challenge bull riding event June 8 in Decatur. Lt. Gen. Leroy Sisco, founder and chief executive officer of the foundation will attend the dinner, and although the dinner is free, there will be an opportunity to make a donation at the end of the program. To attend, RSVP to Bree at First Baptist by calling (940) 627-3235 or by emailing bree@firstdecatur.us.

DEADY SCHOLARSHIP – The Wise County Messenger will award $2,000 in scholarships to a graduating Wise County senior who is pursuing an education in a journalism related field. The scholarship is named in honor of Denny Deady, a long-time member of the newspaper’s staff. Applications for the scholarship have been sent to journalism teachers and school counselors in Wise County. The deadline for applications is May 1.

DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT – Fighting Fernandez Fuerte Relay For Life team will host a dodgeball tournament fundraiser Saturday, May 4, at JRob’s in Decatur. Cost is $10 a person for a six-person team. Individual registrations will also be accepted. Pick-up games for kids and ladies are $5 a player. Half the proceeds go to 19-year-old Valente Fernandez Jr., who is battling bone cancer, and the other half to the American Cancer Society. For more information or to register, call or text Junior at (940) 210-2878 or Erika at (940) 577-1513.

FUNERALS – Graveside service for Russell Duane Sprowls, 81, of Decatur is 2 p.m. Wednesday at Beaver Falls Mausoleum and Cemetery in Beaver Falls, Pa. Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.

FUNERAL for Helen Jo Hatcher, 78, of Paradise is 2 p.m. today at Cottondale Baptist Church with burial at Cottondale Cemetery. Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.

FUNERAL for Pat Fennell, 72, of Decatur is 10 a.m. today at Grace Baptist Church in Decatur with burial at Sweetwater Cemetery. Coker-Hawkins is handling arrangements.

SERVICES for Jerry Allen, 67, and Jerry Davis, 80, both of Decatur are pending at Coker-Hawkins.

FUNERAL for James Floyd Parker, 72, of Alvord is 2 p.m. Tuesday at the First Baptist Church in Alvord with burial at Alvord Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.

Messenger photo by Joe Duty

An elderly woman was flown to a Fort Worth hospital with serious injuries after a two-vehicle accident Friday evening. She was driving an older model, Dodge passenger car westbound on U.S. 380 about 5 p.m. when she ran into the back of a pickup stopped at the red light at Devon Energy.

No one in the pickup was injured, but the woman had to be extricated. She was transported to Wise Regional Bridgeport and flown from there to a Fort Worth hospital. Law enforcement has not yet released the woman’s name.  More information will be posted as it’s available.

RELIEF EFFORT FOR WEST — Jagged Edge Salon in Decatur is accepting donations for the relief efforts in West. Stylist Jessica Kramer will be delivering the supplies Saturday morning. Items needed include bottled water, diapers, wipes, gauze, rubbing alcohol and peroxide, and non-perishable foods. Bring donations to the salon at 301 S. Washburn. For more information, call (940) 627-2311 or (817) 713-8234. ALSO, The Rock Church in Bridgeport is accepting donations 9 a.m.-5 p.m. today and Saturday to take to West on Sunday. Needed items include toiletries, water, baby items, adult diapers, pet food, Wal-Mart gift cards and coloring books for kids. The office is located at 1305 11th St., just off Halsell St. ALSO, Weatherford College Wise County is collecting items for the relief effort in West. Contact the college at (940) 627-2690 or wisecounty@wc.edu. AND Brookshires in Bridgeport has a donation site set up for the relief effort. Crystal Holt will also be at the store at 10 a.m. Saturday to take donations not associated with the store to be delivered Sunday.

DONATE BLOOD — Carter BloodCare is encouraging individuals who want to help those affected by the explosion in West to donate blood. Carter BloodCare is having a blood drive 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday, April 24, at Weatherford College Wise County, 5180 U.S. 380, between Bridgeport and Decatur. To make an appointment, call 361-230-3344 or visit https://ww2.greatpartners.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/40809. If you can’t make that event or if you want to donate sooner, you can go to the donor center nearest you.

CHICKEN COOP TOUR — The 3rd Annual Wise Chicks Chicken Coop Tour is 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday featuring a self-guided tour of chicken coops of Wise County. An information booth will be on the Decatur Square 9 a.m.-3 p.m. A free “Chickens 101” seminar will be 9-10 a.m. at the Decatur Visitors Center. For more information, visit www.WiseChicksCoopTour.com.

MAMMOGRAM SCREENINGS — The Mary’s Gift program at Wise Regional Health System will offer free mammogram screenings for eligible women Wednesday, April 24, by appointment only. Call (940) 626-1384 to apply.

GARAGE SALE FUNDRAISERS — The Fighting Fernandez Fuerte Relay For Life team will have a multi-family garage sale fundraiser beginning at 8 a.m. tomorrow at 3005 Lipsey St. 2013 PARADISE PROJECT GRADUATION is having a garage sale fundraiser 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. tomorrow at Paradise Junior High School. Drop off items for the sale 4 to 6 p.m. today at the school.

BROOM AND MOP SALE — The  Lions Club Broom and Mop sale is going on today in the Decatur Market Place parking lot. Sales of the products, made by the blind, benefit the local club.

GUESS TO SPEAK — Glenn Guess of Decatur will be speaking at 10 a.m. Sunday at the World Predator and Hog Expo in Waco. The event starts today and runs through the weekend at the convention center. For more information, visit www.scurryoutdoorssouth.com.

RODEO PINK — Pre-orders for this year’s new Rodeo Pink T-shirt designs are due Monday, April 22. For a pre-order form email afogelman@cityofbridgeport.net or pick up forms at Angels Care Home Health or the Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce. Friday, May 10 is Rodeo Pink Day in Wise County. All funds raised stay in Wise County to support breast cancer awareness and education.

RETRO BLAST — Yesterday’s Texas Retro Blast Cruise and Tunes is 4-8 p.m. Saturday at the Bridgeport location. The event benefits student scholarships. Free open cruise starts at 3 p.m. with registration for the car show 4 to 6 p.m. There will be free activities and games for children and adults with awards. For more information, call (940) 683-6620.

DAR MEETING — The John B. Denton chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is meeting 10 a.m. Saturday in the auditorium of the Wise County Historical Museum. The speaker is from the Dallas Historic Tree Coalition, and he will explain what makes a tree historic, how to find historic trees in our communities, Indian marker trees, and how we are connected to history through the trees that surround us.

CHILI CHEESE DOGS — The Wal-Mart Warriors Walking For a Cure Relay For Life team will sell chili cheese hotdog lunch plates 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and tomorrow from the Dr Pepper wagon, which will be stationed outside the store’s garden center. Cost is $6 and includes the chili cheese dog, chips, drink and dessert. Proceeds benefit Relay For Life of Wise County and the American Cancer Society.

COUPLES NIGHT — A Focus on Marriage and Family seminar is 6-8 p.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church in Decatur. The free event features speakers Jeff and Debby McElroy and a catered dinner. Chlidcare will be provided. To register, call 806-773-6205, and for more information, visit www.firstdecatur.us.

FUNERALS — Graveside service for Russell Duane Sprowls, 81, of Decatur is 2 p.m. Wednesday at Beaver Falls Mausoleum and Cemetery in Beaver Falls, Pa. Family visitation is 3-5 p.m. Saturday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.

FUNERAL for Leita Maye Bolin, 76, of Boyd is 10:30 a.m. today at Aurora Baptist Church with burial at Aurora Cemetery. Christian-Hawkins is handling arrangements.

SERVICE for Helen Hatcher, 78, of Paradise is pending at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.

NO SERVICE is scheduled for Mary Frances Page, 78, of Alvord.

RHOME POLICE SEEK CAR BURGLARS — A string of car burglaries over the weekend at a subdivision in Rhome has neighbors and police on the lookout. An eyewitness noticed four young men combing the streets of the neighborhood on foot in the early morning hours of Sunday, April 14. Rhome Police Chief James Rose said they’ve already identified at least 15 victims. “Four young men were walking through the neighborhood, opening car doors and taking GPS systems or anything else they could,” Rose said. “Most cars in the neighborhood are unlocked. This is a small town and people aren’t used to locking their cars.” But at least two homes in the subdivision had security cameras posted outside their houses. The footage was turned over to police and shows two of the suspects. In the video the men can be seen trying to open car doors. The doors are locked, and they move on. Rose said they appear to be in their late teens, possibly 17 or 18, and if anyone knows the suspects seen in the video they could probably identify them from the footage, which can be viewed at WCMess.com/burglary. Rose encourages anyone with any information to contact Wise County Crime Stoppers at (940) 627-5971, ext. 236.

MORNING STORMS — A line of storms brought heavy rain to Wise County this morning. A cool front had also dropped temperatures into the upper 40s by 7:30 a.m. Rainfall totals included 1.15 inches in Greenwood, 0.99 in Decatur, 0.95 in Alvord, 0.6 in Chico and 0.44 in Rhome. The forecast calls for the storms to clear out by midday.

RELIEF FOR WEST — Jagged Edge Salon in Decatur is accepting donations for the relief efforts in West. Stylist Jessica Kramer will be delivering the supplies Saturday morning. Items needed include bottled water, diapers, wipes, gauze, rubbing alcohol and peroxide, and non-perishable foods. Bring donations to the salon at 301 S. Washburn in Decatur. For more information, call 940-627-2311 or 817-713-8234.

CHILI CHEESE DOGS — The Wal-Mart Warriors Walking For a Cure Relay For Life team will sell chili cheese hotdog lunch plates 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. tomorrow and Saturday from the Dr Pepper wagon, which will be stationed outside the store’s garden center. Cost is $6 and includes the chili cheese dog, chips, drink and dessert. Proceeds benefit Relay For Life of Wise County and the American Cancer Society.

SURVIVOR DINNER — A dinner for survivors/caregivers who registered with Relay For Life of Wise County is 6 tonight at First Baptist Church in Decatur. There will be a live auction and entertainment by the Cross Timbers Band, and cancer survivor Joyce Finley will speak.

CHAMBER LUNCHEON — The Bridgeport Area Chamber of Commerce April luncheon is 11:30 a.m. today at Bridgeport Community Center.

DAR MEETING — The John B. Denton chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is meeting 10 a.m. Saturday in the auditorium of the Wise County Historical Museum. The speaker is from the Dallas Historic Tree Coalition, and he will explain what makes a tree historic, how to find historic trees in our communities, Indian marker trees, and how we are connected to history through the trees that surround us.

BUTTERFIELD FESTIVAL — The Bridgeport Area Chamber of Commerce’s Butterfield Stage Days Festival is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 11, 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.

PLANT SALE — Slidell FFA is holding a plant sale 8 a.m.-3:20 p.m. each school day through April 30 at the high school. Super petunias, geraniums and coleus are $2 a plant, $36 for a flat of 18. Hanging baskets are $10. Marigolds, petunias, gazanias and zinnias are $14 a flat. Call the ag department for detailed information, (940) 466-3881, ext. 229.

BENEFIT GOLF SCRAMBLE — The first Amy’s Angels Golf Scramble is 1 p.m. Saturday, April 27, at Hidden Creek Golf Course in Burleson. Cost is $400 per team and will include range balls, golf and lunch. For a $50 donation, event organizers will display “in honor of” or “in memory of” signs around the putting green and clubhouse. Proceeds benefit the Amy’s Angels Wise County Relay for Life Team in honor of breast cancer survivor Amy Hudson Cline. For more information, call Steve Cline at (817) 822-9171 or email clinesintexas@yahoo.com.

DAVA YARD SALE — The Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary will hold its annual yard sale Friday and Saturday. Donations are being accepted at the DAV Hall on Farm Road 51 South in Decatur 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today.

ADOPT A PET — The Wise County Animal Shelter will host an adoption event 10 a.m.-4 p.m. today through Saturday at Tractor Supply in Decatur. Also, mention the shelter at Chili’s and the restaurant will donate 10 percent of your bill to the shelter.

RED CROSS MEETING — Red Cross of Wise County meets 7 tonight at the EMS Building in Decatur. Volunteers and anyone interested are invited.

DECATUR SCHOOL BOARD — The Decatur School Board meets at 6 tonight at the district’s administration building. A closed session will be followed by the open meeting.

FUNERALS — Service for Leita Maye Bolin, 76, of Boyd is 10:30 a.m.. Friday at Aurora Baptist Church with burial at Aurora Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 tonight at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.

SERVICE for Russell Sprowls, 81, of Decatur is pending at Christian-Hawkins.