Parker County: Jason Lane was appointed as the new Emergency Management Coordinator. He previously served as the deputy coordinator for Frisco, managing emergency programs, grants, and disaster response.
Politics: Parker County Judge Pat Deen announced his bid for re-election, seeking a third term. He highlighted accomplishments such as allocating $9 million of ARPA funds for water infrastructure, improving county operations, hiring a full-time fire marshal and emergency operations manager, creating a mayors council, and developing growth management plans.
Education: Trinity Christian Academy planned to host a Preview Day on January 24 for families interested in their elementary and secondary programs. The event offers tours of campuses, class observations, and meetings with administrators.
Obituaries: Denton Merrill Garner passed away peacefully on December 17, 2024, at age 90. He was a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and later worked for General Dynamics.
Don Garvey passed away peacefully on December 22, 2024, at age 79. He was a proud patriot, ordained deacon, and devoted member of North Side Baptist Church, known for his passion for football.
Harley Randolph Mohr passed away at home on December 16, 2024, at age 73. He worked as a manager at AT&T and later full-time at Ringleaders Kennel.
Business Profile: Aledo resident Savannah Lacefield runs “May Flowers Mobile Bookstore,” a unique concept operating out of a cargo trailer. She brings books to various events around Parker County and focuses on community engagement, especially through “Popsicles In The Park” story times for children.
Public Notices:
Willow Park: Notice of a public hearing on January 14, 2025, to consider the creation of Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone Number Two.
Annetta North: Ordinance No. 2024-05 regulating physical use of rights-of-way by wireless network providers, and Ordinance No. 2024-04 regulating installation and maintenance of utility and telecommunications facilities. Both include penalty clauses for violations.
Cresson Crossroads MUD No. 2: Notice to Bidders for construction of two Trinity Wells and one Paluxy Well for Cresson Estates. Bids due January 21, 2025.
City of Aledo: Notice of intention to issue certificates of obligation not to exceed $27,775,000 for sewer system improvements, and a public hearing on January 23, 2025, to amend Article 6 of the Unified Development Code pertaining to signage.
Tiger Woods Golf Course Development: A major headline announced that the Aledo area will be home to Tiger Woods’ Bluejack Ranch, an elite private community featuring a new golf course designed by Woods. Slated to open in early 2026, the 914-acre development will include approximately 600 homes, adult spas, wellness centers, and a public “Bluejack Town” area. Notable figures like former PGA Tour player J.J. Henry are involved in the project.
Local Business and Healthcare: A new Aledo Medical Plaza was under development by Louie Lu, set to be anchored by Cook Children’s Pediatrics, Goodwin Dental, and Clover Oxygen Hyperbarics & Wound Care.
A local author, Kevin Hurd of Aledo, was featured for his Amazon best-selling books on baseball no-hitters.
An obituary for long-time Aledo resident Carol Nagie Steer is included.
Snow Day Fun: The front page featured photos of residents enjoying recent snow, with a dedicated section on page 2 showing more community snow day pictures.
Willow Park Annexation & Development: The City Council discussed and approved the annexation of 317 acres from Dean-Beall Ranch for mixed residential, commercial, and light industrial use, which could significantly increase the city’s population and tax base. The city is also working to become a “Film Friendly City” and honored Assistant City Manager Bill Funderburk upon his retirement after 44 years of public service.
Aledo Mayoral Re-election Bid: Mayor Nick Stanley announced his re-election campaign.
Weatherford ISD Achievements: The Board of Trustees celebrated academic improvements, recognized Teacher of the Year Tiel Jenkins, and noted significant progress in college and career readiness as per the Texas Academic Performance Report. Board elections for four seats are scheduled for May 3.
Community Life & Entertainment: Former Miss Texas and local celebrity Gloria Gilbert-Barron was scheduled to perform at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo’s Pink Day Cancer Survivor Luncheon sponsored by the Careity Foundation on January 28. Willow Park resident Lee Ann Miller shares her experiences as an actress, having appeared in shows like “Landman” and “Lioness” alongside notable actors.
Annetta: The Deer Creek IX development is currently on hold due to significant drainage concerns raised by the Town Council. Kenmark Homes is interested in purchasing and developing the area, but issues regarding run-off lots and the impact of 47 new water wells on the city’s supply need to be addressed. The town’s financial standing was reported as “exceptional” in its annual audit.
Willow Park: The mayoral race for the May 3 election is contested, with incumbent Doyle Moss filing for re-election against challenger Teresa Palmer. Chawn Gilliland has filed for re-election for Place 2 on the council, while Eric Contreras (Place 1) had not yet filed.
Weatherford: Mayor Paul Paschall has filed for re-election, seeking his third term. His goals include lowering taxes, strengthening public safety, addressing transportation needs, and improving the quality of life for citizens. The City Council also honored Dr. Stacy McLeod for her appointment to the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners and discussed the Façade Improvement Grant policy, with differing views on taxpayer funding for private property improvements.
Infrastructure: A multi-million dollar project is underway to improve the I-20 access road at Aledo, aiming to enhance traffic flow and safety by eliminating dangerous lane crossings.
Public Service Announcement: A reminder that the deadline to pay Parker County property taxes without penalties is January 31.
The Honors Program at Weatherford College is experiencing significant growth, now serving 42 students. It includes rigorous coursework, community service, and capstone projects, with 22 students already graduated and several transferring to university honors colleges.
Evie Banis, an Aledo High School student and Scout Troop 75 member, completed her Eagle Scout project at Dawson-Hackett Cemetery. The project involved brush trimming, digging, placing crosses, erecting a kiosk, and installing seating, receiving praise from the Abandoned Cemetery Association of Parker County.
A detailed profile on Dan Hardick, an Aledo graduate (2003) known as “Danger Dan,” was included. He is a Harley Davidson enthusiast, podcaster (“Danger Dan’s Talk Shop”), and traveler. One of his five Harleys is displayed in the Harley Davidson Museum.
Obituaries:
Clayton Colby Thomas: 39, of Hico, Texas, passed away January 14, 2025. An Aledo Bearcats quarterback known for his creativity and love for the outdoors. Survived by his wife, Cassidy, parents, brother, and extended family.
Patricia Jung Williams: Of Willow Park, passed away January 18, 2025, after a battle with glioblastoma. President of Roger Williams Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep & Ram, recognized as a successful businesswoman and community supporter. Survived by her husband, Congressman Roger Williams, children, grandchildren, and sister.
Georgia Geneyne Clark: 89, of Aledo, passed away December 11, 2024. A former Motorola employee and member of Aledo United Methodist Church, known for her love of family, road trips, and cooking. Survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild.
Aledo ISD STAAR Reports: Aledo ISD continues to show success in STAAR scores, outperforming other districts, despite the district’s emphasis on best teaching practices rather than solely on state-mandated tests. College, Career, Military Readiness (CCMR) scores also show improvement.
Aledo ISD Land Acquisitions: The district announced the acquisition of two sites for future schools: 40 acres near Willow Park (via a sewer easement swap) and a 12-acre donated site near Kelly Road. These acquisitions are part of a proactive plan for rapid growth.
Willow Park Police Chief Change: Daniel Franklin stepped down as police chief, with Lieutenant Quincy Hamilton appointed as interim chief. The city council stated it was a mutual and amicable parting.
Aledo Hires First Public Safety Director: Carol Riddle, with 24 years of law enforcement experience (including from Arlington PD and Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas), has been appointed to lead the establishment of Aledo’s first police department.
Hudson Oaks Crime Report: The city reported a 13% decrease in crime in 2024, despite recent growth. Three city council positions are up for election in May.
Willow Park Approves TIRZ for New Land: The city council approved a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) for 317 acres being annexed from Fort Worth. This is an incentive for commercial and residential development, potentially adding significant value by 2063. The election ordinance was amended, and Mayor Doyle Moss faces challengers.
Community Projects: Aledo High School architecture students will help design a public restroom for King’s Gate Park.
Aledo ISD Updates: The 2023 Bond projects are progressing, with Lynn McKinney Elementary School nearing completion and other construction on schedule. Community giving initiatives like the AdvoCats’ “Run, Walk, and Crawl” and the Aledo Education Foundation’s “Bearcats and Boots” events were announced.
“Shining Example”: A detailed feature on Rhonda Torres, highlighting her 15 years on the Aledo School Board, her 40-year career at Weatherford College (retiring as dean of education and instructional support), and her extensive community service. The article emphasizes her role in founding the Aledo Thanksgiving Trot, which aids families with catastrophic medical expenses. It also covers her personal journey with Parkinson’s Disease and breast cancer, showcasing her strong faith and resilience.
Park Re-opening: Aledo’s popular park with new play equipment re-opens, reflecting the community’s younger demographic.
School Board Re-election: Aledo ISD Board President Forrest Collins announces his intention to run for re-election for Place 4, highlighting district achievements.
New School Groundbreaking: Vanguard Preparatory School, a therapeutic private school for K-5 students, breaks ground in Aledo, aiming for an August 2025 completion.
New Police Chief: David Stevens, with over 30 years of law enforcement experience, is named the new Chief of Police and Director of Safety and Security for Aledo ISD.
Weatherford Concerns: Residents express concerns regarding short-term rentals, leading to the approval of new regulations. Additionally, development funds are approved for a restaurant in the old Cotten-Bratton building.
Hudson Oaks Project: A $14 million expansion project for North Oakridge Drive is detailed, with construction planned in phases from June to late summer 2026.
Aledo FFA Success: Aledo High School FFA students dominate national grant awards, with 14 students receiving $1,000 grants for their Supervised Agricultural Experience projects.
City Hall Update: Aledo City Hall construction is progressing, with a January 2026 grand opening projected.
Obituary: A detailed obituary for Jerry James Loftin (81) of Arlington, highlighting his career as a lawyer (including his representation of Priscilla Davis), his community involvement, and his personal life.
Willow Park City Council Election: Eric Contreras seeks re-election for Place 1, challenged by David Allen. Mayor Doyle Moss is challenged by Teresa Palmer and Catherine Davis. Place 2 Council Member Chawn Gilliland is running unopposed.
Beall-Dean Property Annexation: The Willow Park City Council unanimously approved the final annexation of 317 acres of Dean Ranch. This multi-faceted development at I-20 and Highway 1187 will include single-family residential (35.3 acres), multi-family residential (91.7 acres), commercial (135.2 acres), and light industrial (55.5 acres). It is projected to have an estimated value of $500 million at full buildout and to double the city’s sales tax collection.
Board Meeting Achievements: The Weatherford ISD board honored 15 DECA students who advanced to state competition and recognized the WHS Cheer team as Student Athletes of the Month for winning the state UIL championship. The board recognized the WHS Cheer team, noted the transportation department’s success in filling bus driver positions (from 23 openings to 1 in 3 years), and approved the purchase of 62.499 acres for $2,968,702.50.
New City Secretary: Deana McMullen, former Aledo City Secretary, was hired as Willow Park’s new city secretary.
Feature Article: “Steve and Barbara Russell explain secret to a long and happy marriage.” The Russells celebrated 50 years of marriage in November 2023 with a trip to France, Spain, and Italy. Barbara (78, former Aledo ISD teacher) and Steve (78, former golf professional) met on a blind date. They emphasize kindness, support, laughter, and communication as keys to their long marriage.
Hutch’s Closes After 90 Years: A long-standing Weatherford staple, Hutch’s, known for its fried pies, sandwiches, and soups, has closed after 90 years as owner Blair Nicole retires. The article notes long lines and strong community response to its closure.
Train Depot Designated as Local Landmark: The Weatherford City Council unanimously voted to designate the original Santa Fe train depot (built in 1908) as a local historic landmark. The structure is already a Texas State Historical Landmark and houses the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce.
Aledo ISD Board Approves 2025-26 Calendar: The Aledo ISD Board of Trustees approved the instructional calendar for the 2025-26 school year, which is similar to the previous year. Board members also advocated for increased state funding in Austin, highlighting significant underfunding in special education, transportation, and safety/security.
2023 Bond Update (Aledo ISD): Progress on the 2023 bond projects includes the Ag Barn nearing completion and the Steve Wood Complex on schedule. The district also acquired 52 acres of land (40-acre and 12-acre parcels) at no cost, which will be used for future school buildings.
Ag Mechanic Students Win Big: Aledo FFA students achieved significant success at the San Angelo Ag Mechanics Show, earning five blue and four red ribbons for various projects, including grills, fire pits, and shop tables.
“Legacy Land Becomes Labor of Love”: The Clearfork Creek Farm, located south of Aledo, operates as a non-profit (501c3) providing organic produce to those in need, specifically donating to the Parker County Center of Hope and Crowley House of Hope. Managed by Lee and Ellen Greer, the farm honors a family dream of giving back to the community.
Parker County Health Foundation Gala: Photos capture the annual “Boots & Bling” gala, a sold-out event featuring food, an auction, and entertainment, benefiting local health initiatives.
Rep. Roger Williams to run again in 2026: U.S. Representative for Texas’ 25th Congressional District, Roger Williams, announced his re-election bid for 2026, touting his work with President Trump and focusing on issues like border wall completion, tax cuts, cutting bureaucracy, and energy.
Willow Park Council approves incentive for Pulido’s: The city council unanimously approved a Chapter 380 development agreement for Pulido’s Westland Willow Park, LLC, which plans to invest $400,000 in renovations. The city will provide a 50% sales tax incentive for the first two years of operation, expecting $2.5 million in annual taxable sales. Deana McMullen was sworn in as the new City Secretary.
“Foosball Fabrication”: An article about a men’s group from Aledo United Methodist Church helping construct a human foosball court for Glen Lake Camp, highlighting community involvement and the unique nature of the project.
Weatherford College Alumni Awards: Brent Gough named 2025 Alumnus of the Year, with Dr. Deborah Liles and Fort Worth Police Chief Neil Noakes honored as Distinguished Alumni.
Stock show staff shares humor for luncheon: The Careity Foundation hosted a luncheon for cancer survivors at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo’s “Stock Show Goes Pink” day, featuring entertainment by ventriloquist Gloria Gilbert-Barron and Jarred Hammer.
Weatherford Council pauses tractor dealership permit approval: The Weatherford City Council delayed approving a permit for a Kioti Tractor dealership, seeking clarification on whether sales would be limited to new equipment only.
“Love Weatherford litter project targets county, aims for Texas”: This article features Jeff Oakes, founder of Love Weatherford, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to litter cleanup. The group, which started with Oakes’ personal initiative, has grown to nearly 1,000 members and removed 6,500 bags of litter. The article highlights the physical and mental health benefits of litter picking and their goal to become an official “Keep Texas Beautiful” affiliate.
“REMEMBERING THE TOADIES”: An in-depth interview with Lisa Umbarger, former bassist for the Fort Worth rock band The Toadies, who now resides in Aledo. She discusses the band’s origins, success, challenges, and her current podcast “Jackalope Tales.”
Aledo Council: Approved $27.775 million in certificates of obligation for sewer line improvements and is seeking $3,164,100 from TxDOT for FM 1187 expansion-related utility relocation. The council also approved a development agreement with Moncrief Properties for a property on Dean Drive and discussed budget priorities.
Hudson Oaks: Preparing for a new wastewater line project, which includes a 5.5-mile pipeline and a pump station, due to recent population growth. New employees (Elizabeth Yelverton as city attorney and Lara Brown as director of operations) were welcomed.
ESD No. 1 Banquet: Firefighters were celebrated and acknowledged, with Brian Rutledge named Firefighter of the Year. The article highlights the dedication of firefighters, including those on-duty attending the banquet to ensure continuous service.
Texas House Bill: Rep. Mike Olcott (District 60) filed HB 3657, aiming to protect educators from assault and harassment by mandating a 30-day disciplinary alternative education program placement for students who commit such acts.
Weatherford ISD: Established a Facility Advisory of Citizens, Teachers, and Students (FACTS) Committee for long-term facility planning, including evaluating a potential bond election in November 2025.
Local Elections: Lists candidates for municipal and school board elections on May 3 in Parker County, including contested mayoral races in Aledo, Willow Park, and Weatherford, and school board races in Aledo ISD and Weatherford ISD. Important voting dates are provided.
Local Business Feature: “A Fresh New Coat of Pink! The Malt Shop celebrates new life” details the sale and renovation of the historic Malt Shop in Parker County. New owners David Hart and Shawn Allen are preserving its traditions while adding improvements like extended hours and outdoor amenities. The previous owner, Janie Harrison, remains as general manager.
Willow Park appoints Ray Lacy, former interim chief in Jourdanton, Texas. He has a 39-year law enforcement career and is focused on community service.
Willow Park City Council accepted a positive audit report on its finances. It approved a $1,446,565 bid for Phase 1 of the Beall-Dean Utility Extension Project to extend water/sewer to a 317-acre property planned for retail, commercial, and residential use. It also approved a contract for engineering services for street and infrastructure improvements in Squaw Creek Estates West, detailing numerous road and utility upgrades.
Parker County Emergency Services District No. 1 recognized 17 honorees (in teams) for saving eight lives in 2024 through intensified training in life-saving techniques.
Annetta Town Council discussed amending its drought contingency plan, focusing on service fees for exceeding water limits.
Obituaries: James Edward Villwock (82), a former Tandy Leather manager, passed away on March 5, 2025.
“God’s Here racks up award nominations”: An article about Aledo filmmaker Bill McAdams, Jr.’s film “God’s Here” receiving six nominations for the International Christian Film & Music Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director (McAdams, Jr.), Best Actor (Kevin Sorbo), Best Supporting Actress (Sarah Elizabeth Reeves), Musical Score (Reeves), and Cinematography. The film is based on personal grief and themes of forgiveness.
Aledo ISD Board Approves Upgrades: The board approved $509,754 to replace turf at Aledo Middle School stadium, purchased new Chromebooks for Lynn McKinney Elementary School ($184,140), and an upgraded sound system for Aledo High School Auditorium using 2023 bond funds.
Eager Shoppers Surge to New Costco: A grand opening was held on March 15 in Weatherford, with shoppers lining up early. Weatherford City Manager James Hotopp highlighted the economic growth for the city and Parker County. Costco General Manager Dan Rioux noted it’s the 50th store in the Texas region.
Weatherford ISD Student Athletes Recognized by School Board: The March 10 meeting honored student athletes, including the boys’ basketball team (26-8 record, advanced to playoffs) and individual players receiving All-District honors. Lady Roos soccer player Bri Lily and wrestler Mason Walker were named Student Athletes of the Month.
New Assistant AD Welcomed: Michael Swenson was introduced as Weatherford ISD’s new Assistant Athletic Director, bringing 20 years of coaching experience.
Peaster Classes Buzz with Excitement: Peaster FFA program, led by Eric Ribble, operates a bee apiary where students from kindergarten to high school learn about apis mellifera (honeybees). The program emphasizes the importance of bees in the ecosystem and economy, covering pollination and the role of beekeepers.
Aledo ISD Journalism Success: The Aledo High School yearbook staff won a “Gold Crown” award from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association in New York City for their 2023-2024 yearbook, “It’s Just What We Do.” This is the highest award given by the association.
Sanctified Hope Fundraiser: A gala featuring an Elvis impersonator and a car show raised funds for Sanctified Hope, a transitional service for formerly incarcerated women. Tiffany Boudreaus shared her personal story of redemption and recovery through the program.
Annetta Drought Contingency Plan: The Annetta Town Council heard a presentation from the Parker County Master Gardeners about native vegetation and is finalizing a drought contingency plan that will likely include service fees for residents constantly exceeding water usage limits. Gay Larson presented on adaptive vegetation to help residents garden efficiently during drought conditions.
Aledo Teen’s Role in AI Legislation: Elliston Berry, an Aledo High School sophomore, was instrumental in the passing of the “Take It Down” Act. After being a victim of deepfake pornography created by a classmate, she worked with Senators Ted Cruz and Amy Klobuchar to criminalize malicious AI use and empower victims. She recently attended a round table with First Lady Melania Trump.
Hudson Oaks Planning: The city is focusing on long-term improvements for Gene Voyles Park, including scheduling public meetings and stakeholder reviews throughout the year. Kimley-Horn Engineering is assisting with this master plan, as well as a $14 million expansion of Oakridge Drive and a wastewater project.
Weatherford College Honorees:
Brent Gough was named Alumnus of the Year. He is the founder of Gough Wealth Management and a long-time supporter of the college foundation.
Dr. Deborah Liles and Fort Worth Police Chief Neil Noakes were honored as Distinguished Alumni.
Financial Report: Hudson Oaks received its financial report for the fiscal year ending Dec. 30, 2024, showing a clean audit of the city’s infrastructure and improvement spending.
Charity Event: The Aledo Children’s AdvoCats held their annual “Glow Run” to raise funds for local charitable work.
Senior Prom & Gala: The Parker County Committee on Aging hosted its annual Senior Prom and Gala. The event celebrated seniors aged 90 and above with limousine service and crowned Francis and Rosemary Klontz as King and Queen (Page 5).
Weatherford College Updates: President Tod Allen Farmer delivered a “State of the College” address, noting a 23.5% growth in student population in the fall. He also highlighted the new 110,000-square-foot student union building and the expansion of the medical program in Bridgeport.
Obituaries:
Linda Nell Densmore: A long-time Aledo resident and avid Texas Rangers fan, passed away at 77.
Arvil Jackson: A former City of Fort Worth employee and Aledo resident since 1972, passed away at 87 (Page 6).
“Freedom House Rocks!”: The Freedom House of Parker County is raising awareness for sexual assault and crime victims’ rights by placing hand-painted rocks around the county. The nonprofit provides crisis services, counseling, and legal advocacy for victims.
Willow Park Police Chief: Ray Lacy was sworn in as the new Police Chief of Willow Park. The council also approved a $1.5 million tax note for street repairs and park improvements.
“Extreme Makeover: TOTS Edition”: Theatre Off The Square (TOTS) in Weatherford is undergoing significant renovations. The first phase includes new insulation, ceiling remodeling, and replacing pews with raked seating to improve audience views. The theater continues to host performances during the renovation process.
Glow Run: The Aledo Children’s AdvoCats held their annual “Glow Run” fundraiser on March 29 to support local charitable work.
Impact Athletic Center Expansion: The center announced a new 14,000-square-foot facility dedicated exclusively to cheer and tumbling, located on E. Bankhead Hwy.
“Earning a Second Chance”: A feature story profiles David Hart, a former homeless teenager and addict who turned his life around to become a successful entrepreneur (Hart HVAC and Electric) and community volunteer. He recently petitioned Governor Abbott for a pardon for a 20-year-old drug conviction so he can further his service as an auxiliary police officer.
Constituents Meet Candidates: The Parker County Republican Women hosted a forum for mayoral, city council, and school board candidates. Key topics included managing growth in Aledo, water infrastructure in Weatherford and Willow Park, and supporting small businesses.
Mental Health for Firefighters: A report highlights a peer-to-peer support network within Parker County Emergency Services District 1. Led by Chaplain Cliff Spain, the program helps firefighters cope with PTSD and stress from traumatic calls.
Grace House Fundraiser: Grace House Ministry held its annual “Better Together” banquet at Willow Park Baptist Church. The event featured ventriloquist Gloria Gilbert-Barron and raised funds to support the organization’s mission of offering alternatives to abortion.
Happy Easter: A photo spread captures the City of Hudson Oaks’ “Hoppin’ HOCO” Easter egg hunt at Gene L. Voyles Park, featuring a petting zoo and hundreds of children hunting for eggs.
Historic Hail Storm Remembered: The paper marks the 30th anniversary of the “Mayfest Hail Storm” of May 5, 1995. The storm caused over $2 billion in damage (equivalent to $4.5 billion today) and injured many. The article features recollections from locals, including nurses who were on duty during the chaos.
Inspiration at City Council: Annetta Mayor Pro-Tem Kent Stasey assisted Mary Beth Stasey, wife of the Mayor Pro-Tem, when she ran out of gas. This encounter led to an invitation for Chris Parks, founder of the Texas Outlaws (a wheelchair basketball team), to speak at the council meeting. Parks, an amputee veteran, shared his story of resilience and forming the team.
New Communications Manager: Laura Weber has joined the City of Aledo as the new communications manager. A former employee of the Burleson Chamber of Commerce and Tarrant Regional Water District, Weber aims to improve community engagement and is also a local artist.
Taste of Parker County: The 16th annual food festival hosted by the Weatherford College Foundation was a success, drawing nearly 600 attendees. Winners included:
Best Entrée: (Tie) Bush League Bar & Grill and CiBi Italian Restaurant.
Best Dessert: DERS Desserts.
Best Overall (Judge’s Choice): CiBi Italian Restaurant.
Spring Fling: Photos highlight the annual Aledo Spring Fling craft fair, which featured over 125 vendors and raised funds for the Aledo High School Class of 2026 prom.
Willow Park’s “Practical Applications”: Aledo High School architecture students from the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program presented their designs for a new ADA-compliant restroom and picnic pavilion for King’s Gate Park to the Willow Park City Council. The city is likely to use their designs for the project.
Mayoral Profiles: Outlines the upcoming May 3 elections for mayoral positions in Aledo and Willow Park, detailing the platforms of incumbents (Nick Stanley in Aledo, Doyle Moss in Willow Park) and their challengers (Shane Davis in Aledo; Teresa Palmer and Catherine Davis in Willow Park).
Annetta Council Meeting Features Inspirational Story: Chris Parks, President and founder of the Texas Outlaws wheelchair basketball team, shared his powerful story of overcoming a life-altering illness (flesh-eating bacteria leading to amputation) and forming a national championship-winning team.
The World of Bees: A feature article explores the challenging work of James Vasich, owner and operator of Aledo Apiary, who specializes in removing and re-homing bee swarms. The article details the difficulties of beekeeping, the importance of bee health, and Vasich’s involvement with “Real Texas Honey,” a non-profit promoting pure Texas honey.
Aledo High School Jazz Band Performs: The AHS Jazz Band entertained guests at an “Island Breeze” fundraiser, featuring solos and performances by guest artists “The Jags,” composed of former AHS jazz band students.
Aledo Ladycat Pitcher Feature: A detailed profile on Taylor McKean, a senior pitcher for the Aledo Ladycats, highlights her journey from a young age to becoming one of the program’s best. She has achieved 350 career strikeouts and is committed to play at Tarleton State University. McKean boasts an undefeated district record throughout her high school career.
Election Information: Provides a comprehensive list of all local races for the May 3 election, including candidates for Aledo ISD, Weatherford ISD, Springtown ISD, Millsap ISD, City of Weatherford Mayor, City of Fort Worth Mayor/Council, City of Willow Park Council, and special propositions for Springtown ISD and City of Reno (Page 3).
Letters to the Editor: Includes a letter from Forrest Collins (Aledo ISD Trustee candidate) thanking teachers and staff, and an endorsement for Willow Park Mayor Doyle Moss from the Republican Mayors Association. A resident also voiced frustrations with Willow Park’s permitting process.
Willow Park and Aledo Unseat Mayors: In the May 3 elections, Teresa Palmer was elected as Willow Park’s first woman mayor, defeating incumbent Doyle Moss with 64% of the vote. In Aledo, city council member Shane Davis successfully upset incumbent Mayor Nick Stanley with 56.9% of the vote. Weatherford Mayor Paul Paschall and Aledo ISD School Board President Forrest Collins retained their positions.
Weatherford College Names New Athletic Director: Jeff Lightfoot, who has been WC’s head baseball coach since 2002, was appointed as the full-time athletic director. He replaces Bob McKinley, who will continue to coach women’s basketball.
Aledo High School Students Design Park Facility: AHS architecture students Faith Bartlett, Samuel Ghent, Amelia Buck, and Matthew Dominich presented their designs for a new restroom/picnic pavilion for King’s Gate Park to the Willow Park City Council. Their work, stemming from a field trip, is likely to be implemented.
Parker County Health Foundation Fundraiser: The Parker County Health Foundation distributed significant funds to various local organizations on May 2, resulting from their “Pink Luncheon” and “Boots & Bling” fundraisers. Recipients included Freedom House ($70,000), Sanctified Hope ($25,000), Manna Storehouse ($45,000), Grace House Ministries ($30,000), Parker County Committee on Aging - Meals on Wheels ($70,000), Parker County Center of Hope - Kingdom Smiles ($67,000), Children’s Advocacy Center ($85,000), and Child Protective Services ($10,000).
Aledo Lions Scholarships Awarded: The Aledo Community Lions and Aledo Lions Youth Basketball Association awarded $2,000 scholarships to Ella Isbell, Cara Corzine, Patricia Loftin, Haley Lowe, Brett Barclay, and Elly Roach.
Charles Linehan New AMS Principal: Charles Linehan, formerly an assistant principal at Keller Central High School, has been named the new principal of Aledo Middle School. He previously served as an assistant principal at AMS.
Local Election Results: Detailed results for mayoral, city council, and school board races in Aledo, Weatherford, and Willow Park are provided, along with results for Weatherford and Springtown ISD trustees.
Mayoral Reaction: New Willow Park Mayor Teresa Palmer expressed excitement and nerves, attributing her win to citizens wanting change. Aledo Mayor-Elect Shane Davis vowed to move the city forward, focusing on supporting local businesses.
Forrest Collins Wins Re-election: Aledo ISD School Board President Forrest Collins retained his seat with 65% of the vote, stating the results validated the work of the school district.
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