Wharton Texas Proud -- The News About Wharton, TX!

We've Moved to www.WhartonCountyTX.com!

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 11:52:00 +0000

Visit WhartonCountyTX.com for the latest information about events, sports, and issues in Wharton County TX

We've created a new website to highlight the events in Wharton County as well as Wharton. The new website includes highlights from many of the 2012 Wharton High School football games, so if you're used to visiting Wharton Texas Proud to watch Tigers football highlights, come on over to WhartonCountyTX.com to check out video from the 2012 games.

We'll be moving most of the content from Wharton Texas Proud to the new website over the next month or so. Thanks to you for your support of this website, and we hope you'll like the new one. Comments are always welcome!

Hairspray Opens Tonight at The Plaza Theatre - Wharton County Texas!

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 16:44:00 +0000

Jack Balcer's "Hairspray" Review - Call 979-282-2226 for tickets!

Corny Collins (played by Matt Graff of El Campo) let's the audience know about 9 month "leave of absence" that Brenda (played by Elle Shackleford of Wharton) will be taking from the TV dance show. Photo by Linda Potter.

Tracy Turnblad (played by Shelby Armour of Bay City) gets scolded by her parents Edna and Wilber (played by Joanna Hickey and Carl Woodworth of Wharton) for her farfetched dreams of becoming a television celebrity. Photo by Linda Potter.

The teens of Baltimore give it there best for a chance be to featured on the tv dance program – the Corny Collins Show. Featured from left to right are Elle Shackleford of Wharton, Micah Baylor of Victoria, Celeste McCann of El Campo, Sarah Fernandez of Victoria, Shelby Armour of Bay City, Cassidy McDonald of Wharton, Walker Baylor of XX, and Isabella Rene of Bay City.

Here's Jack Balcer's review:

Hairspray Rocks The Plaza!

From the moment she opens Hairspray by greeting a new day with “Good Morning Baltimore,” until she closes the show promising that “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” Shelby Armour is the star of the show. As Tracy Turnblad, a teeny-bopper who becomes an activist because she innocently thinks everyone should be able to enjoy dancing as much as she does, Armour brings energy and joy to the stage in this production, which will run at the Plaza on Monterey Square for three weekends: August 3-5, 10-12, and 17-19.

Originally a film produced and directed by John Waters in 1988, Hairspray became a long-running Broadway musical after producer Margo Lion assembled a team consisting of Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan (who wrote the book), Mark Shaiman (music) and Scott Wittman (who co-wrote lyrics with Shaiman). The story is about rock n’ roll, race relations, teen bullying, and, ultimately, recognition of different body types, social classes, and dance moves—and this combination of serious and apparently trivial concerns is ultimately the point: the kids and adults who find the most fun overcome obstacles to happiness.

Director Darin Mielke has fashioned a production audiences should love. While Armour’s is the most brilliant, the show features fine performances by other Plaza veterans. Janice McDonald and Joanna Hickey are first-rate as rival moms of rival teens. Matthew Graff, Eli Kresta, Loria Rose, and Carlee Skinner shine as a tv host, would-be teen idol, shy outsider, and combination teen queen/mean girl. Director Mielke, Carl Woodworth, and Elle Shackelford also contribute excellent work in less prominent roles.

An especially exciting aspect of this production is that it introduces new performers to Plaza audiences. Jama Allen (the “Big, Blonde, and Beautiful” Motormouth Maybelle) is a thrilling new find; and Tina Watson (both the Gym Teacher and Principal at Patterson Park High School), Derek Johnson (Seaweed J. Stubbs), and Brianna Grays (Maybelle’s daughter Little Inez) lead a handful of other newcomers.

Any successful show about rock n’ roll in the 1960s has to reproduce the styles of dress and dance that made the era memorable, and this production of Hairspray does not disappoint. Henri-Ann Nortman has once again designed beautiful costumes, and the choreography of Katrese Skinner and Sarah Wilkins has helped bring back to life the twist, the stroll, the mashed potato, the Madison, and other dance crazes. A special nod also goes to Michelle Rene, Janice McDonald, and the others whose hairstyling brings back the beehive and other 60s ‘dos and helps make Hairspray a memorable experience for audiences.

Hairspray is great fun. Writing in the New York Times when Hairspray opened on Broadway, Ben Brantley said it is “as sweet as a musical can be without promoting tooth decay.” The Footeliters’ production of the show at the Plaza will provide audiences with the same sweet sensation, so see this show.

Hairspray will be performed at the Plaza Theatre on Monterrey Square in Wharton on August 3-5, 10-12, and 17-19. Evening performances begin at 7:30, and Sunday matinees start at 2:30. Call the box office at 979-282-2226 or visit www.whartonplazatheatre.org for reservations. (Season ticket holders should also make advanced reservations.)

About the Writer: Jack Balcer recently completed nearly four decades as a college English professor, where his favorite course was Shakespeare. While teaching (at Shenandoah University in Virginia), he took enough undergrad Theatre courses to qualify for a minor. Decades before the end of the 20th century, four of the roles he played were Hotspur in 1 Henry IV, Baptista in Taming of the Shrew, Mordcha in Fiddler on the Roof, and Doc in West Side Story. He now lives in Wharton with his wife Kay, the most wonderful woman and the best cook in town.

Plan Your Plaza Theatre Date for Hairspray - Starting August 3rd!

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 22:06:00 +0000

The Sixties are Back in Wharton with the Plaza Theatre Production of Hairspray

The Plaza Theatre proudly presents

Hairspray

The Plaza Theatre on Monterey Square in Wharton will present the final production of its 2011-2012 Season, Hairspray. This big fat musical will be performed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, August 3-19. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 pm, and Sunday matinees at 2:30 pm.

Break out the Aqua Net and cheer on pleasantly plump Baltimore teen Tracy Turnblad as she pursues her dream of dancing on the popular Corny Collins Show. It's the sixties, and change is in the air. Our loveable, larger-than-life heroine manages to replace the program’s reigning princess, integrate the television show, and find true love--all while singing, dancing, and never mussing her hair. Based on John Waters' campy film, the Broadway production of Hairspray won eight Tony Awards including Best Musical and Best Original Score and went on to inspire the 2007 movie remake.

“Hairspray is difficult to produce for many reasons," said Assistant Director Keri Graff, "but I have to say this cast and crew have stepped up and met the challenge. Individually, each person is so talented and collectively they bring such energy to the stage that it's contagious. The show's jam-packed with great music, dancing, and acting—it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser!”

General admission is $15 or $13 for Seniors, Students, and groups of 10 or more. Plaza Theatre season ticket holders may use their season tickets for this event. Reservations are highly recommended and may be made by telephone at 979-282-2226 or online at whartonplazatheatre.org.

Lonesome Dave Kemp and Duke Davis Special Guests at next Java Jam

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 23:27:00 +0000

Next Wharton Java Jam Features Lonsome Dave Kemp and Duke Davis!

Lonesome Dave Kemp

“Lonesome Dave” Kemp, a native of Tennessee, who now makes his home in Bandera, Texas, will be the guest entertainer for the Java Jam, Friday, July 27, 6-9 pm at Milam Street Coffee on Monterey Square in Downtown Wharton, TX. His producer, Duke Davis, who was so well received here a few months ago, will be back to perform with him. Kemp is a songwriter and guitarist who's has toured with George Strait and opened for many legendary performers including Reba McIntyre.

In 2010 he joined Duke Davis and Buckshot as their guitarist. This gave “Lonesome” a chance to elevate his songwriting and contribute to Buckshot’s Western Swing ‘Cow Jazz’ sound with many of his own compositions, and as a featured vocalist, as well.

Kemp’s Tennessee roots surface in his writing and playing, but he’s got enough Texas ‘twang’ in his soft, soothing voice to make him the real deal!

Duke Davis

There is a $15/per person cover charge and attendees are asked to bring a covered dish with a little extra to share. The always bountiful buffet also features special desserts contributed by local providers. You may bring your own wine or purchase delicious beverages. The Java Jam is fast becoming known as Wharton’s most innovative, economical, dining/entertainment outing.

Wharton County Vietnam War Medal of Honor Recipient Remembered

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 11:18:00 +0000

Master Sergeant Roy P. Benavidez, U.S. Army

This week with the Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall visiting Wharton County, it's especially appropriate to remember some of the heroes of that War. One of those heroes was Master Sergeant Roy P. Benavidez, US Army, who was raised in El Campo. This is the Citation for the Medal of Honor awarded to Master Sergeant Benavidez.

The President of the United States

in the name of The Congress

takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor
to

ROY P. BENAVIDEZ

Rank and Organization: Master Sergeant, Detachment B-56, 5th Special Forces Group, Republic of Vietnam. Place and Date: West of Loc Ninh on 2 May 1968. Entered Service at: Houston, Texas June 1955. Date and Place of Birth: 5 August 1935, DeWitt County, Cuero, Texas.

Citation: Master Sergeant (then Staff Sergeant) Roy P. Benavidez United States Army, who distinguished himself by a series of daring and extremely valorous actions on 2 May 1968 while assigned to Detachment B56, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces, Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 2 May 1968, a 12-man Special Forces Reconnaissance Team was inserted by helicopters in a dense jungle area west of Loc Ninh, Vietnam to gather intelligence information about confirmed large-scale enemy activity. This area was controlled and routinely patrolled by the North Vietnamese Army. After a short period of time on the ground, the team met heavy enemy resistance, and requested emergency extraction. Three helicopters attempted extraction, but were unable to land due to intense enemy small arms and anti-aircraft fire. Sergeant Benavidez was at the Forward Operating Base in Loc Ninh monitoring the operation by radio when these helicopters returned to off-load wounded crewmembers and to assess aircraft damage. Sergeant Benavidez voluntarily boarded a returning aircraft to assist in another extraction attempt. Realizing that all the team members were either dead or wounded and unable to move to the pickup zone, he directed the aircraft to a nearby clearing where he jumped from the hovering helicopter, and ran approximately 75 meters under withering small arms fire to the crippled team. Prior to reaching the team's position he was wounded in his right leg, face, and head. Despite these painful injuries, he took charge, repositioning the team members and directing their fire to facilitate the landing of an extraction aircraft, and the loading of wounded and dead team members. He then threw smoke canisters to direct the aircraft to the team's position. Despite his severe wounds and under intense enemy fire, he carried and dragged half of the wounded team members to the awaiting aircraft. He then provided protective fire by running alongside the aircraft as it moved to pick up the remaining team members. As the enemy's fire intensified, he hurried to recover the body and classified documents on the dead team leader. When he reached the leader's body, Sergeant Benavidez was severely wounded by small arms fire in the abdomen and grenade fragments in his back. At nearly the same moment, the aircraft pilot was mortally wounded, and his helicopter crashed. Although in extremely critical condition due to his multiple wounds, Sergeant Benavidez secured the classified documents and made his way back to the wreckage, where he aided the wounded out of the overturned aircraft, and gathered the stunned survivors into a defensive perimeter. Under increasing enemy automatic weapons and grenade fire, he moved around the perimeter distributing water and ammunition to his weary men, reinstilling in them a will to live and fight. Facing a buildup of enemy opposition with a beleaguered team, Sergeant Benavidez mustered his strength, began calling in tactical air strikes and directed the fire from supporting gunships to suppress the enemy's fire and so permit another extraction attempt. He was wounded again in his thigh by small arms fire while administering first aid to a wounded team member just before another extraction helicopter was able to land. His indomitable spirit kept him going as he began to ferry his comrades to the craft. On his second trip with the wounded, he was clubbed from additional wounds to his head and arms before killing his adversary. He then continued under devastating fire to carry the wounded to the helicopter. Upon reaching the aircraft, he spotted and killed two enemy soldiers who were rushing the craft from an angle that prevented the aircraft door gunner from firing upon them. With little strength remaining, he made one last trip to the perimeter to ensure that all classified material had been collected or destroyed, and to bring in the remaining wounded. Only then, in extremely serious condition from numerous wounds and loss of blood, did he allow himself to be pulled into the extraction aircraft. Sergeant Benavidez' gallant choice to join voluntarily his comrades who were in critical straits, to expose himself constantly to withering enemy fire, and his refusal to be stopped despite numerous severe wounds, saved the lives of at least eight men. His fearless personal leadership, tenacious devotion to duty, and extremely valorous actions in the face of overwhelming odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect the utmost credit on him and the United States Army.

"Hero" is a word that seems to be overused sometimes, but it certainly applies to Master Sergeant Benavidez!

The Vietnam Wall Traveling Memorial is open daily for visitors at its display site in El Campo, adjacent to Myatt Elementary School. Click here for the schedule of events.

Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Visits Wharton

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 23:23:00 +0000

The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Saluted by Wharton Residents

Wharton Veterans and Scouts Prepare to Render Honors

Wharton residents gathered on Historic Monterey Square to welcome the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall as it passed the Wharton County Courthouse and traveled through Monterey Square. Several hundred people were on hand during this rainy afternoon to honor the Wall and the memories of the service men and women whose names are inscribed on its surfaces. This is a video of the escort and the official vehicles passing down Milam Street.

The Wall passed through Wharton on its way to a display site in El Campo, near Myatt Elementary School. Here's the schedule for viewing the Wall in El Campo.

July 10 – July 15, 2012
MYATT ELEMENTARY, EL CAMPO, TX
501 W. Webb, El Campo, TX

Special Event Schedule:

July 11, 2012
8:00 AM All are welcome to come to the site and participate in putting up "The Wall"
4:00 – 9:00 PM Public Viewing
9:00 TAPS

July 12, 2012
9:00 AM– 9:00 PM Public Viewing
9:00 TAPS

July 13, 2012
9:00 AM– 9:00 PM Public Viewing
9:00 AM Salute and Reunion for WWII Veterans
All World War II Veterans and public are welcome
6:00 PM Salute and Reunion for Korean Conflict Veterans -All Korean Conflict Veterans
and public are welcome

July 14, 2012
9:00 AM– 9:00 PM Public Viewing
9:00 – 10:00 AM Ceremony with all Branches of the Armed Forces Honoring our Vietnam Veterans and their families -All Veterans and the Public are welcome to attend. County wide Color Guard, 21 gun salute
9:00 PM TAPS

July 15, 2012
9:00 AM– 9:00 PM Public Viewing
1:00 PM Salute and Reunion for Enlisted Military, Active and Retired -All Military, active and retired and the public are welcome to attend
6:00 PM Salute and Reunion for Desert Storm War, Iraq War, Afghanistan War Veterans -All Veterans of these wars and the public are welcome to attend.
9:00 PM Candlelight Ceremony for All Branches of the Armed Forces, Honoring the 58,272(KIA, including missing and deaths in captivity) who gave their lives in the Vietnam War. Honor all POWs and MIAs. County wide Color Guard,
21 gun salute

July 16, 2012
8:00 AM Take the Wall down -All are encourage to join in.

The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Site will have a Veterans Hospitality Tent with complimentary water and snacks, Educational Tent, Information Tent, Locator Tent, A Chapel tent for Prayer, and
a Concession tent. All visitors after 9:00 PM please check in with the night guards, there will be a locator book available. This is a non-profit event and free to the public. Come out and honor those who gave their lives in the Vietnam War and honor all Veterans for their service to our Country.

For more information about the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, please contact: Sarah L. Hudgins (281) 433-3357 e-mail sarahh@johndaugherty.com

No Money to Fix Wharton City Water Leaks

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 23:03:00 +0000

The City of Wharton Texas Says It Has No Money to Fix Routine City Waterline Leaks!

Water flows from the ground around the hydrant to a nearby storm drain.

Update (7/16/12) -- Harold Matula of Wharton Public Works Department stopped by to explain the plan for fixing the leak. An outside company has the ability to fix the water leak without shutting off water to several blocks of Wharton and this company will repair the hydrant within the next three or four weeks. I'll update the post when that happens.)
Update (7/9/12) -- I attended City Council this evening and explained the situation to Council. City Manager Garza assured me that the leak would be fixed. I'll update this post when that happens.

The fire hydrant in front of our house had not been tested during our five years in Wharton so we asked the City to text the hydrant. The hydrant was tested and painted and within a few weeks, we noticed that water was collecting around the base of the hydrant. We called the Wharton Public Works Department and after two visits, the Public Works Director told me that there is no money available to fix water leaks and sewer leaks that are not judged to be hazards to public health and safety. So thousands of gallons of water from this City water line are being wasted every month and the leaks is growing.

At the same time, the City of Wharton is planning to spend at least five million dollars to build a new road network, outside the City of Wharton, in Wharton County. Why does it make sense for Wharton taxpayers to build a new county road, when the City is too poor to repair and maintain the roads, water lines, sewer lines and sidewalks in the City of Wharton?

Is Wharton’s Wish List Working?

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 14:48:00 +0000

We Need a Real Plan for Wharton Economic Development!

In a recent Journal-Spectator article, Keith Magee reported on the June meeting of the Wharton Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). I’m one of the members of the WEDC Board. At that meeting, I reported on the results of the Market Wharton Advisory Committee, its finding that Wharton has no economic development plan and its recommendation that WEDC join with City Council and the School Board in developing a plan.

At that point, David Copeland, WEDC President, challenged the Advisory Committee’s findings and asserted that WEDC has an economic development plan. David had attended the Market Wharton Advisory Committee meetings and been silent on the matter at those meetings. The document that David Copeland asserted was WEDC’s economic development plan is just two pages long, and in many ways, it resembles the Christmas wish list I created as a small child.

My wish list stated that I wanted a pony. The David Schroeder-written WEDC wish list states that WEDC wants development along Alabama Road, Boling Highway and other locations, and that “WEDC ... recognizes the creation of Districts for Funding Infrastructure making Wharton a place of preference ...”
My wish list assigned responsibility to Santa for delivery of the pony, but the WEDC wish list assigns responsibility to no one.
My Christmas wish list didn’t account for funding the pony, and the WEDC wish list has no funding estimates or funding sources.
My Christmas wish list contained no schedule and no milestones, and the WEDC wish list has no schedule and no milestones.

Under this WEDC plan, no one is ever delinquent, behind schedule, or under or over budget. It’s similar to the situation when a smoker does nothing more than write, “I want to quit” on a piece of paper -- it will never happen without the commitment to develop a plan of action to measure progress toward quitting.

Snoqualmie Falls is a tourist attraction near Snoqualmie, WA

We compete for development with other small cities that have plans with accountability, funding estimates, milestones and schedules, and I found several by doing a Google search for “sample economic development plans.” The 144 page plan I printed and brought to the June WEDC meeting was from Snoqualmie, a small city of 6,700 people about 60 miles east of Seattle. The complete text of the WEDC wish list and links to the Snoqualmie economic development plan and other plans are at this earlier Wharton Texas Proud article.

The July WEDC meeting will decide whether WEDC develops a real economic development plan or stays with the wish list. WEDC has spent over $7M of taxpayer money over the last 10 years with no real plan. If you feel that WEDC and the City of Wharton need a real plan, please call 532-0999 and tell David Schroeder. Plan to attend the July 16 WEDC meeting, and tell the Board that you favor real planning for Wharton’s economic future.

Is There a Plan for Wharton Economic Development? Opinion

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 16:13:00 +0000

Market Wharton Advisory Committee Recommendations

Does Wharton Need an Economic Development Plan?

At the last Wharton Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) meeting, a controversy arose over the issue of whether Wharton has an economic development plan. As Co-Chairman, I was reporting the results of the Market Wharton Advisory Committee, and our Committee found that no real plan exists and we recommended that a short term goal for WEDC would be to develop a plan in cooperation with the City of Wharton, the School Board, and other taxing entities in Wharton.

During my presentation, WEDC Board President, David Copeland, told me that he objected to the finding that Wharton has no economic development plan and he said that the following document was Wharton's economic development plan. The document was written by David Schroeder, WEDC Executive Director, after the last Market Wharton meeting and was submitted as an attachment to the Minutes. It's written as if Mr. Schroeder had presented the information at the last Market Wharton meeting, but according to my notes, he did not.

Mr. Schroeder mentioned; since there was an audience present for the Marketing Meeting and they could educate or communicate to others, he wanted them to know:

Locally, the WEDC office communicates a clear picture of the Board of Directors plan for economic growth, incentives and workforce availability.

The WEDC short term plan includes the vision to develop projects along

a) the major corridor of Hwy. 59 and

b) improvements and development along

• Richmond Road

• Hwy 60

• Alabama Road

• FM 102

• Boling Hwy.

• Milam St.

• and the Historic Downtown District.

The City’s Abatement Policy is under review, the WEDC suggested incentives to City’s Finance Committee for consideration. A District on the downtown area and gateways into our community could help existing property owners and investors restore buildings or create new buildings for business growth and appearance. Our goal has been to seek out

Industrial, commercial and residential developers. The landowners, especially along Hwy 59, desire certain predictable commercial growth that will enhance their remaining property.

We believe new housing developments fall short of what the City and WEDC are expecting and suggest the City’s reexamination of our housing incentives to determine why there are no takers under the current policy.

The long term WEDC plan recognizes the creation of

a) Districts for Funding Infrastructure making Wharton a place of preference, rather than a location with a limited plan for development.

b) WEDC’s financial assistance or

c) The City’s 380 Agreements could be the next reasons for growth for the City of Wharton on critical parcels of land.

Team work becomes critical in every movement forward. While we have different ideas or thoughts on issues among new members of our different groups, the WEDC, City of Wharton and County leaders cannot just verbally saying they desire improvement to occur, but must act as a cohesive unit in action to promote the well-being of the City of Wharton.

Mr. Schroeder stated the long term and short term goals are presented to the WEDC Board and to City Council annually. Now it is up to either party to voice other specific directions for the WEDC staff to accomplish other goals. If the Marketing Committee wanted to offer specific directions, goals, and solutions for accomplishing new additional tasks, the committee could then state those recommendations now.

I've been on the WEDC Board for almost two years, missing only two meetings, and I don't recall discussing or voting on the above document as a statement of the Board's plan.

City Manager Garza Says There Is No Plan!

In researching the existence of an economic development plan, I'd sent an email to City Manager, Andres Garza, to ask about the existence of a public infrastructure improvement plan and an economic development plan. This is his reply dated January 10, 2012:

Paul,

The City does have a written public infrastructure plan addressing the improvements you mentioned. However, the Public Works Department is currently updating the plan for the City Councils upcoming strategic planning meeting. As soon as it is completed, I will more than gladly furnish you a copy. Also, there is not a downtown redevelopment plan or a Wharton Economic Development Plan that has been submitted to the City by WEDC.

Andres

More Than Seven Million Dollars Spent by WEDC Over the Last Ten Years!

Call me crazy, but if the Wharton City Manager doesn't know about a plan, I don't think we have a plan! I've been on the WEDC Board for almost two years and I've never seen a real plan with a schedule, funding estimates, assignments of responsibility, and milestones for achievement. What we have now is a wish list that states what Mr. Schroeder would like to have happen, but the hard work of actually figuring out how to accomplish those goals or any other Wharton economic development goals has never been done. That wouldn't be much of a problem if all WEDC did was meet for lunch once a month and talk, but WEDC has spent over $7 million of your money over the last ten years with nothing more than what you see above as the plan for spending it.

City of Snoqualmie Economic Development Plan

I did a Google search for "sample economic development plans" before the WEDC meeting and printed a detailed 144 page plan from a small town called Snoqualmie, which is about 60 miles east of Seattle in Washington State. Compare Mr. Schroeder's plan above with the Snoqualmie plan and it gets easier to understand why Wharton's population is decreasing and our sales tax revenue growth lags behind El Campo and Wharton County as a whole. Here's the link to the Snoqualmie Economic Development Plan and a link to an assortment of other sample plans.

Snoqualmie, with a population of less than 7,000, and many other cities of Wharton's size have done the hard work to develop a viable plan. That won't happen though if you don't demand it. Under Mr. Shroeder's document quoted above, WEDC is never behind schedule because there is no schedule, delinquent in action because there is no assigned action, or under or over funded because there's no mention of funding or costs. It's like my plan for learning to play the guitar -- it hasn't happened because I haven't done the hard work of actually developing a lesson plan and putting myself in the chair to do it.

Call WEDC at 532-0999 and Say You Want An Wharton Economic Development Plan

Wharton's future is at stake here. We can continue to spend lots of money every year with no real plan or we can pressure WEDC, the City Council, and the School Board to sit down together and jointly develop a detailed, executable plan for Wharton's future prosperity. Failing to act is a decision for the status quo -- and the City of Wharton's economic future will become even more at risk.

What do you think about Wharton's plan and the City's current economic development progress?

Market Wharton Advisory Committee Reports Findings

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 15:10:00 +0000

I reported on Market Wharton Advisory Committee findings at the Wharton Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) meeting on June 18, 2012. Here are the Minutes of the last meeting:

MARKET WHARTON ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING

Minutes

May 15, 2012

WEDC Board Members Present: Paul Sherland

WEDC Board Members Absent: Gerald Sanchez, Dr. Jeffery Gubbels, Terry Lynch,

Marshall Francis, Scott Chambers and David Copeland

WEDC Advisor Committee Members Dr. Kay Shoppa

Present:

WEDC Advisory Committee Members Mike Wootton, Gordon Franklin, Demetria Johnson, Marilyn

Absent: Sebesta, Betty McCrohan, City Manager Andres Garza, Jr., Mayor Domingo Montalvo, Jr., Judge Phillip Spenrath and Ron Sanders

WEDC Attorney Not Present: Larry Wadler

Attendees Present: Joan Andel, Debbie Folks, Harry Priesmeyer, Candyce Byrne, Kyle Smith, Doc Blakely, Kim Peikert, Karen Schulz

Staff Member Present: David L. Schroeder and Karen Heintschel

Presentation and Discussion led by WEDC Directors Paul Sherland

1. Call to Order: Co-chairman Paul Sherland opened the meeting at 8:07 A.M.

2. Introductions: Paul welcomed everyone.

3. Finish Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic & Timely (SMART) Goals to address Community strengths and weaknesses

Mr. Sherland opened the meeting with his power point presentation which began with some of the strengths of the community including WCJC, the Colorado River and the Historic Down Town. Mr. Sherland also commented that Doc Blakely, with the Java Jam, Candyce Byrne, with the Community Theatre, and David Copeland with the Freedom Fest help promote the community through related events and that it takes people working together to make the community a better place.

Some of the weaknesses outlined were the high poverty rate, with 80% of students being on free or reduced lunches, and low state funding for WISD, and the poor state of the City’s downtown and infrastructure. Apathy in the community was also discussed as a weakness.

Mr. Sherland stated that the goals developed by Market Wharton would be presented to the WEDC Board. The WEDC Board may choose to act on all the recommended goals, some of them, or none of them. The recommended goals were:

Within a year:

WEDC develop a Wharton Economic Development Plan (with SMART Goals) approved by the City with input from WCJC, WISD and the Community. A written economic development plan is required by WEDC Bylaws but has never demanded by Council and never done by WEDC. He said that he had visited with City Manager Andres Garza, Jr. and was told that WEDC had not provided the City with an Economic Development Plan. Mr. Schroeder says there is a plan, but he admitted that if the City Manager doesn’t know that a plan exists, there’s a problem. Mr. Sherland said in order for the plan to work, it would involve the City Council, WCJC, WISD and the other taxing entities.
WEDCO the Chamber, and the City should evaluate existing businesses to determine what, if any assistance they might need. (Suggested by 2006 Resource Team Report) Mr. Smith commented that a state wide business survey had been done and that the results would be shared with the City and WEDC.
Fund the City Infrastructure Improvement Plan (City of Wharton Public Works Strategic Plan) - fix sidewalks, streets, sewer and water lines, and restore ditches.

Mr. Sherland said that a review of the budget showed that the City shifted >$500K from 2011/12 Water Sewer Fund to pay for Mayor, Council, and other Govt Departments.
Mr. Sherland said the same City budget review showed that 2011 Bond Issue, labeled for improvement of City infrastructure, is being used for FM 1301 Extension -- no money allocated to Public Works. Ms. Andel disputed this assertion and she and Ms. Schultz said that more than $220 thousand of the 2011 Bond Issue was allocated to the street improvement program. Mr. Sherland then asked Ms. Andel how much of the bond issue was allocated to the FM 1301 Extension project to build a new road across County land and Ms. Andel said that that amount was over $3.7 million. Mr. Sherland asked Ms. Andel to provide a breakdown of the allocation of the 2011 Bond Issue and that information is added below.
Mr. Sherland said that he’d been told that Public Works can’t hire and retain qualified people - they pay Buc-ee’s wages for heavy equipment operators eligible for oil and gas jobs
Mr. Sherland said that Public Works is forced to depend on grant money for funding non-emergency repairs and infrastructure replacement

Potential long term goals such as a Texas Paddling Trail, Small Business Incubator, Bike Trails and a Main Street Community were discussed. Mr. Priesmeyer mentioned the receipt of two grants which will greatly benefit the community. More detailed information about potential long term goals is provided in the attached PowerPoint slides.

Following the meeting, Ms. Andel provided the following breakdown of the 2011 Bond Issue:

FM 102 Relocation or FM 1301 to Hwy 59 $3,726,900

Issuance cost 150,000

Sidewalk enhancement 115,000

Flood Reduction 85,000

Street Improvements 250,000

Sewer Plant No.1 Improvements 123,100

Drainage Improvements 150,000

Total $4,600,000

Also following the meeting, Ms. Marilyn Sebesta furnished information she had researched regarding the Texas Word Wrangler Festival in Giddings, TX. The Texas Word Wrangler Festival might furnish as a blueprint for a Maker Faire in Wharton. Ms. Sebesta’s research is attached. She’s also discussing the possibility of a bike trail with community leaders.

4. Set Next Meeting Date & Time: This was the final Market Wharton meeting.

5. Adjourn: Paul Sherland adjourned the meeting at 8:50 A.M.

Respectfully Submitted By:

______________________________

Paul Sherland

____________________________

Gerald Sanchez

Wharton Freedom Fest a Hit Despite the Rain!

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 12:36:00 +0000

Perfect Temperatures and a Cool Breeze Reward Freedom Fest Goers!

Fireworks at Wharton Freedom Fest 2012

Those of us who came downtown on Saturday evening for Wharton County Freedom Fest 2012 were treated to a great concert and street dance by Chris Brade and his band, unusually cool temperatures, and a pleasant breeze from the east! We arrived about 7:30 pm and found that the crowd was gathering for the street dance and the many vendors around Monterey Square were in full operation.

I enjoyed a barbecue sandwich from the Wharton Tea Party trailer set up on Milam Street and my wife enjoyed a corney dog and fries from another vendor. Lots of good food and lots of attractions for the kids!

We set up our chairs in the perfect location to listen to the music and watch the fireworks, between the Veteran's Memorial and the Courthouse, and just enjoyed the evening's entertainment. I hope we can bring Chris Brade and his band back to Wharton for future concerts and another Freedom Fest!

Thanks to the Wharton Freedom Fest Committee for another great celebration of our Nation's birthday! Congratulations also to our neighbor Bo Kucera and his team for winning all three categories of the Freedom Fest Barbecue Cookoff!

Did you attend Freedom Fest and did you have a good time? Leave a comment below.

Here's a sample of Chris Brade and his band.

Wayne Brown & Jim Bates at Wharton's Java Jam Friday!

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 11:03:00 +0000

DOBRO PLAYER FEATURED AT JAVA JAM

Wayne Brown

The team of Brown and Bates, from nearby Manvel, will be featured guests at the next Java Jam, Friday, June 22, 6-9 pm at Milam St Coffee. Wayne Brown, the very first guest to appear at the Java Jam over a year ago is coming back and he’s bringing Jim Bates with him, one fine Dobro player. If you’re not familiar with that instrument come on out and be prepared for something really different. The Dobro, sometimes called a resonator guitar, was tremendously popular in the early days of the last century and still heard today, especially in Bluegrass and Country music.

Brown is often referred to as a “gentle giant” because of his size and also his smooth, strong vocals. He and his band Sterling play throughout the area. Bates, a native of Oklahoma, has been playing Steel Guitar, Dobro and Hawaiian Guitar with bands since 1962 and with local Opry houses and two Bluegrass bands in the Houston area since the 80’s.

Jim Bates

Bring a covered dish and $15 per person cover charge for Wharton’s innovative dining/live music experience, Friday, June 22, 6-9 pm, Milam St Coffee, on the square. See milamstcoffee.com for directions and further details.

Wharton Police Enforcing Click It or Ticket!

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Tue, 29 May 2012 18:12:00 +0000

Wharton Police Department Joins Click It or Ticket To Crack Down on Seat Belt Use — Especially at Night

Wharton, Texas – Wharton Police Department will join local and national law enforcement officers and highway safety advocates all across the country for the 2012 national Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement mobilization, May 21–June 3. During the mobilization, officers will be cracking down on motorists who fail to wear their seat belts — both day and night.

Because nighttime passenger vehicle occupants are among those least likely to buckle up and most likely to die in crashes when unrestrained, nighttime enforcement has become a priority of the Click It or Ticket mobilization. Of those who died in nighttime crashes in Texas in 2009, fifty-six percent were not wearing seat belts at the time of their fatal crashes.

In 2009, 11,593 passenger vehicle occupants died in motor vehicle crashes nationwide between the nighttime hours of 6 p.m. and 5:59 a.m., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In Texas, six hundred and three died unbelted at night, and three hundred and forty four died unbelted during the day.

“Many more nighttime traffic deaths can be prevented if more motorists simply start wearing their seat belts. That’s why the Wharton Police Department is strongly supporting enhanced nighttime enforcement of seat belt laws during the May 21–June 3, 2012, Click It or Ticket campaign,” said Chief Tim Guin, “We will be out in force to remind drivers and occupants to always wear their seat belts — both day and night.”

High-visibility enforcement such as the Click It or Ticket mobilization is credited with increasing the national belt usage rate from 58 percent in 1994 to an observed usage rate of 85 percent in 2010. Belt use saves thousands of lives each year across America. In 2009 alone, seat belts saved 12,713 lives nationwide.

“Law enforcement will be cracking down on Click It or Ticket violators around the clock. Local motorists should be prepared to buckle up. If law enforcement finds you on the road unbuckled anytime or anywhere, you can expect to get a ticket — not a warning. No excuses and no exceptions,” said Chief Guin.

Remember this May 21 to June 3: It’s Click It or Ticket. Buckle up and encourage your loved ones to do the same. You’ll save the cost of a ticket and may even save a life.

FAST FACTS:

TX: This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Click It or Ticket (CIOT) mobilization. Since CIOT began in 2002, seat belt use in TEXAS has soared from 76.1% before CIOT to 93.8% in 2010, a dramatic increase of 17.7 percentage points.

Last Day to Comment on FM 1301 Extension - Opinion

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Wed, 23 May 2012 23:12:00 +0000

Thursday, May 24, is the last day to comment on the FM 1301 Extension -- click this link to download the comment form.

Wharton City Council is on track to spend at least $9.25 million and perhaps more than $25 million on various plans to extend FM 1301 to either FM 102 or US 59 or both. Although most of the new roads will be outside the City limits and the Wharton County Commissioners have declined to contribute to the projects, our Council Members are moving ahead to spend over $4 million in borrowed money to finance the first part of the project.

FM 1301 Extension Projects

I have a leaking City water line in my front yard that the City has told me it doesn't have the resources to fix. I've read that the City is removing sidewalks rather than repairing them because of a lack of public works funding. I've talked with City public works employees, who've told me about areas of the City served by 2 inch and 4 inch water lines, when 6 inch lines are required to provide adequate water for fire protection. The City told me that there is no funding to replace aging sewer and water lines and only $200 thousand for street improvement. Again, over $4 million of your tax money will be spent over the next few years to build new roads outside the City limits.

Wharton's Deteriorating City Streets

The FM 1301 Boosters claim that the new roads will provide a nicer entry to Wharton. But if Wharton has potholed streets, broken sidewalks, and deteriorating sewer and water lines, the new entry won't make a bit of difference. I've heard City Council Members say that the new road and overpass over the railroad tracks is a needed public safety improvement, but they admit they've never bothered to figure out how many emergency calls have ever been stopped by a train and they ignore the fact that poor streets, missing sidewalks, and substandard water and sewer lines are also public hazards. I watched a young mother wheel a stroller down Resident Street the other day, in the path of vehicles, because there was no sidewalk. City Council will force more kids walking to school and more young mothers into the streets for lack of a sidewalk.

Please take the time to complete this form and ask the City to be smart with your tax money. Either spend it to improve the City of Wharton's streets, sidewalks, water and sewer lines or don't spend it at all. There's no reason for your tax money to be spent building new County roads!

POSSUM AND THE BEE AT NEXT JAVA JAM

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Fri, 18 May 2012 03:50:00 +0000

You’ve heard of Samson and Delilah, Bonnie and Clyde, When Harry Met Sally, but do you know about Possum and the Bee?

Well, come to the next Java Jam, Friday, May 25, 6 pm, Milam St Coffee, and get a sweet treat musically with the husband and wife team of Clint (Possum) and Amber (the Bee) Barbee. Clint, a native Whartonian, played a venue nearly ten years ago in Rosenberg where he met and soon married a local talent of that city, Amber (Jenkins). He plays guitar and composes original tunes as well as performs cover songs. She is a vocalist with that smooth as honey voice and they have been officially making beautiful music together since 2005 in response to requests from friends who heard them as a duo.

Possum and the Bee write and perform their own songs, mostly folk music, as well as cover songs. Come out and be entertained at the next Java Jam, Friday, May 25, 6 pm, Milam St Coffee. Bring a covered dish and $15 per person cover charge for the best dining/live music bargain in Wharton, sponsored by the Monterey Square Merchants who donate free door prizes. Possum and the Bee will also jam with the Java Jam Band in the second set after the always delicious buffet.

Plaza Theatre Auditions for Hairspray Tuesday May 22nd

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Mon, 14 May 2012 18:59:00 +0000

Open Auditions to be held for Plaza Summer Musical HAIRSPRAY

The Plaza Theatre will be holding open auditions for it’s 2012 Summer musical production, entitled, Hairspray. Auditions will be held at the Plaza Theatre on Sunday, May 13^th and Tuesday, May 22^nd at 6:00pm. Participants only need to attend one of the audition sessions.

Break out the Aqua Net and cheer on pleasantly plump Baltimore teen Tracy Turnblad as she pursues her dream of dancing on the popular Corny Collins Show. It's the sixties, and change is in the air. Our loveable, larger-than-life heroine manages to replace the program’s reigning princess, integrate the television show, and find true love--all while singing, dancing, and never mussing her hair. Based on John Waters' campy film, the Broadway production of Hairspray won eight Tony Awards including Best Musical and Best Original Score and went on to inspire the 2007 movie remake.

The performance schedule for this production is August 3 – 19, 2012. “We are looking for actors, singers, and dancers of all ages, colors, shapes, and sizes,” comments director Darin Mielke. “We also want to meet people that are interested in being apart of the technical crew and working backstage. If you have any interest in theater, we would love to meet you!”

For more information about productions at the Plaza Theatre visit the website at www.whartonplazatheatre.org.

Plaza Theatre Holding Auditions for Summer Youth Workshop

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Tue, 08 May 2012 08:07:00 +0000

Registration & Auditions for Litefooter Summer Workshop Willie Wonka Jr.

The Plaza Theatre will be holding auditions and registration for it’s 2012 Litefooter Summer Youth Workshop production, entitled, Willie Wonka Jr. Auditions and Registration will be held at the Plaza Theatre on Sunday, May 13th at 6:00pm.

A stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s timeless children's tale Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, featuring songs from the classic film Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory. For the first time in a decade, the reclusive and eccentric chocolate maker Willy Wonka is opening his doors to the public…but only five children will be allowed inside! Good-hearted dreamer Charlie Bucket finds one of the lucky golden tickets, and he and his unworthy fellow winners Mike Teavee, Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde and Augustus Gloop step through the factory gates to discover whether or not the rumors surrounding the Chocolate Factory and its mysterious owner are true.

The performance schedule for this production is June 28 – July 1, 2012.

There is a $25 registration fee that covers supplies, snacks, and a t-shirt. This is a youth production and the recommended ages for participants are 5 to 17 years old. Students learn basic stagecraft along with light technical theatre techniques over an approximate 3-week period. For more information about the Litefooter Summer Workshop visit the Plaza Theatre website at www.whartonplazatheatre.org.

FM 1301 Public Hearing is Tuesday at 6PM - Wharton Civic Center

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Mon, 07 May 2012 14:17:00 +0000

The long-awaited and previously postponed public hearing on the FM 1301 Overpass project is scheduled for Tuesday, May 8th, from 6 - 8 PM at the Wharton Civic Center. If you're a taxpayer in the City of Wharton, you should plan to be there because this project will determine where your tax money will be spent for years to come.

FM 1301 Extension Options

The Southern route connecting with the current FM 102 is estimated to cost $9.3 million with $5.6 million coming from City of Wharton taxpayers. The Northern route connecting with US 59 would cost $13.5 million with $9.8 million from City of Wharton taxpayers. That $13.5 million doesn't include the overpass at US 59 depicted in the map above. The overpass would add another $12.1 million to the price for a total of $25.6 million of which City of Wharton taxpayers would pay $21.9 million.

Note that Wharton County is refusing to contribute to the building of either route -- both routes are mostly outside the City of Wharton! Why should Wharton City taxpayers pay for building a road across the County that the County doesn't see as worthy of funding?

Get in your car and take a ride through Downtown Wharton. See the buckling sidewalks and potholed streets and the vacant buildings around Monterey Square. What you can't see are the deteriorating sewer and water lines that also need to be replaced. I've been told that there will be modest funding for some sidewalk and road repairs in next year's budget, but nothing will be allocated to repairing and replacing the crumbling water and sewer lines you can't see.

I hope someone on City Council or the Mayor or the City Manager can explain why it's more important to build new roads across the County than it is to fix the deteriorating sidewalks, streets, water lines, and sewer lines in the City limits of Wharton. I'll be at this meeting and I hope you will too!

Leading Ladies Has Everything!

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 14:48:00 +0000

Meg (Ester Bayazitoglu) -- Romantic Interest & Possible Heiress

Leading Ladies is a comedy with something for everyone -- drama, action, adventure, romance, music and dancing. Here's a preview of the Show!

Your toes will be tappin' to music of the '70s as you follow the intricate twists and turns of this Plaza Production. Directed by Reagan Wrench, the action and the laughs never lag as two Shakespearean actors, adrift in rural Pennsylvania, find love and financial security!

Leading Ladies is playing tonight at 7:30 and tomorrow at 2:30, and again next weekend, April 27-27, at 7:30 on Friday and Saturday night and 2:30 on Sunday afternoon. Don't miss it!

Visit the Plaza Theatre online at www.whartonplazatheatre.org or call 979-282-2226.

Leading Ladies Starts Tonight at the Plaza Theatre!

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:24:00 +0000

Audrey (Sarah Bailey) talks about her new job as a roller skating waitress to Jack (Reagan Wrench) as they travel together on a train bound for York, Pennsylvania. Leading Ladies is being performed at the Plaza Theatre in Wharton on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, April 20th-29th. For schedules and ticket information visit www.whartonplazatheatre.org. Photo by Linda Potter.

Doc (Neil McDonald) explains the importance of marrying a girl for her money rather than for love, to his son Butch (Matthew Graff). Leading Ladies is being performed at the Plaza Theatre in Wharton on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, April 20th-29th. For schedules and ticket information visit www.whartonplazatheatre.org. Photo by Linda Potter.

Jack Balcer's Review of Leading Ladies

The production of Ken Ludwig’s comedy Leading Ladies performed April 20-21-22 and 27-28-29 at the Plaza Theatre in Wharton will provide audiences with an entertaining evening. The production clearly portrays director Reagan Wrench’s appreciation of the ways in which Ludwig’s play manipulates aspects of comedy by writers ranging from William Shakespeare to Henny Youngman.

For instance, the central situation involves male actors pretending to be women, as was true of all Elizabethan theatrical performance. As in Midsummer Night’s Dream, amateurs put on a play to help celebrate a wedding, and their rehearsal shows them being as inept as MND’s Rude Mechanicals. In addition, the play they perform is Twelfth Night, which becomes the source of quoted lines and borrowed plot elements---a man being fooled by a fake letter telling him a woman finds him attractive, and mistaken identities facilitated by disguise. In a nod to another Shakespearean romantic comedy, there’s even a beautiful but not-too-bright girl named Audrey (much like the Audrey Shakespeare created in As You Like It). Henny Youngman isn’t specifically alluded to, but most of the jokes in Leading Ladies are of the “rim-shot” variety—ba-bum-ching!--like Youngman’s.

Leading Ladies is more farce than romantic comedy, so the plot and characterizations are less important than the comic situations. At the center of these is the attempt by Leo Clark and Jack Gable, struggling British actors (actors named Clark and Gable? ba-bum-ching!) touring with their “Scenes from Shakespeare” (of course) near York, Pennsylvania, to pass themselves off as the long-absent nephews of Florence, the richest woman in York. Leo thinks the heirs are men when he reads about “Max” and “Steve” in the paper; but even when they learn the “nephews” are actually nieces, Maxine and Stephanie, Leo talks Jack into continuing their scam in hopes of getting the inheritance assigned to them.

Inevitably, these men pretending to be women fall in love with beautiful women who are among the people they try to deceive; inevitably these women are already involved, but with men we immediately understand aren’t as good for them as Leo and Jack would be; and inevitably the story twists and turns its way to a conclusion which finds everything working out happily for everyone.

Under Wrench’s able direction, the Footeliters’ production takes advantage of the play’s possibilities. Farce demands that acting sometimes be over the top, for example: Matthew Graff’s performance as Butch is exactly that in the scenes in which Butch is being taught how to be an actor, and so is Sarah Bailey’s right-on portrayal of the silly-and-sexy Audrey. And Reagan Wrench’s casting of himself as Jack/Stephanie makes possible some of the most farcical acting and costuming in the play: you’ll have to see it to appreciate it. The dance numbers may seem over the top, but those of us who remember the 1970s know they’re just very accurately choreographed and performed. Another noteworthy nod at the ‘70s is the music: not only dance numbers but especially transitions between scenes are accompanied by apt selection and placement of some of the decade’s greatest hits.

No one familiar with recent Footeliters’ productions will be surprised that Esther Bayazitoglu and David Otradovsky give star performances as the romantic plot’s protagonists. High-quality acting is done by all cast members, in fact.

Technical work is skilled. The play requires some rapid set-changes, and these are smoothly done. Henri-Ann Nortman’s costumes are well-executed and fully appropriate to the moments when they appear, and they are beautiful when the moments permit. Seeing Leading Ladies is a wonderful way to spend an evening out.

Leading Ladies will be performed on April 20-21-22 and April 27-28-29, at the Plaza Theatre on Monterey Square in Wharton. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30, and Sunday performances will be matinees beginning at 2:30. For tickets, visit www.whartonplazatheatre.org or call the box office at 979-282-2226.

About Jack Balcer: Jack Balcer recently completed nearly four decades as a college English professor, where his favorite course was Shakespeare. While teaching (at Shenandoah University in Virginia), he took enough undergrad Theatre courses to qualify for a minor. Decades before the end of the 20th century, four of the roles he played were Hotspur in 1 Henry IV, Baptista in Taming of the Shrew, Mordcha in Fiddler on the Roof, and Doc inWest Side Story. He now lives in Wharton with his wife Kay, the most wonderful woman and the best cook in town.

JAVA JAM, JONI AND JADE… THE TALK OF MILAM BARBER SHOP

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 20:08:00 +0000

The Java Jam, Friday, April 27, 6-9 pm, Milam Street Coffee, will feature a mother-daughter delight, Joni Jack and Jade Jack, each with her own musical credentials. Joni, from a musical family, inherited the genes to sing from her father, Bay City guitarist Fred Jack, and in turn passed them on to her daughter Jade.

Joni Rae Jack

Jade Jack

Joni has been singing country-western since she could talk, and can belt out a tune with the best, singing with her own band or as guest vocalist. Her debut CD is titled “Joni Rae Jack” and latest single “Love the Way I Leave” can be heard on Texas radio as well as her website joniraejack.com. Joni recently signed a record deal with AH-HA music and is currently on radio tour.

Jade is not only an accomplished fiddler, having played lead fiddle for the legendary Leona Williams (ex-wife of equally legendary Merle Haggard) in Branson, Mo., but also inherited her mother’s talent for vocals. She is the current holder of the prestigious Will Rogers Award for “Pure Country Artist of the Year” from the Academy of Western Artists. More details are on jadejack.com.

Jade has an interesting connection with Wharton as they will proudly tell you down at Milam Barber Shop. Jade’s father, Lee Miller, and, Grandfather, Sherman Miller have been known to exaggerate a tale on occasions but not when it comes to bragging on Jade. You’ll find the talent of Joni and Jade hard to believe unless you see and hear it for yourself. If you haven’t attended a Java Jam, it is open to everyone, there is a modest $15 cover charge per person and you’ll need to bring a covered side dish for the always delicious buffet. See milamstcoffee.com for full details.

Put the date on your refrigerator door, Friday, April 27, Milam Street Coffee, Joni and Jade opening set 6-7 pm, buffet 7-8 pm, second set with Joni, Jade, and the Java Jam band, 8-9 pm.

Here's a video of Jade Jack performing on the Leona Williams Show at Gilley's in January.

Here's a video of Joni performing, "I Can't See Texas From Here."

Why No New Posts on Wharton Texas Proud?

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 16:53:00 +0000

After almost a year of posting new Wharton articles several times a week to this website, the rate of new posts has dropped back to several a month. Why is that?

There are several reasons. The first one is that I'm not retired! I'm working, providing Internet marketing and search engine optimization services to clients around the Houston Metro area and in several other states. I finally realized that I wasn't able to maintain that high rate of writing and posting and still take care of my clients and grow my business. In fact, I tracked my time through a typical week, and I found that I was spending three full days a week and many evenings attending Wharton events, writing articles about Wharton events, and working on issues associated with the Wharton Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and the Market Wharton Advisory Committee. That didn't leave enough time for my family and my clients, and so I've reduced the time allocated to Wharton Texas Proud and I've also cut back my involvement with WEDC.

Another reason is that I hoped that others around the Wharton Community would step in and help provide articles. I served as a roving reporter for a year to get the process started, but rate of article production in the future will largely be determined by the articles I receive from Wharton area residents. Some folks have been steady contributors with Doc Blakely sending me information about Java Jam events and Candyce Byrne and Russell Kacer sending me information about Plaza Theatre events. A shout-out goes to Marjorie Sklar from Wharton ISD for sending regular updates about school events and student achievements. However, much more could be done and the regular contributions I'd hoped to receive from churches and from civic groups like Rotary and Lions, and community organizations like Boys & Girls Club and Just Do It Now, have not happened. I'll continue to post articles as I get them, so if you have information about a Wharton happening that you'd like to post quickly, with pictures and even video, I'm happy to help. You'll have to write the article though!

The first year of Wharton Texas Proud has been a real success with more than 40,000 page views on a website covering a City with a population of 9,000! That's a sign of the need for and interest in a website about the Wharton community. Thanks to all who have contributed to the website, and I'll look forward to more contributions in years to come.

Warm regards,

Paul Sherland

"Leading Ladies" Coming to Wharton's Plaza Theatre

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:48:00 +0000

YK Communications presents the Plaza Footeliter Production of

LEADING LADIES

The Plaza Theatre, on Monterey Square in Wharton, will be presenting its next stage production of its current season entitled, Leading Ladies. This hilarious comedy, directed by Reagan Wrench, will be performed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from April 20-29, 2012. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30pm, with Sunday matinee performances beginning at 2:30pm.

In this delightful comedy, two English Shakespearean actors find themselves down and out in Pennsylvania's Amish country in the 1970s. When they get word of a dying heiress about to leave a fortune to her two long-lost English nephews, they hatch a scheme to get the cash. However, once they get there they realize that the sought-after relatives aren't nephews at all, but nieces! Gender-bending is a piece of cake for a couple of Shakespearean actors until a little romance shakes things up. Leading Ladies had its world premiere at Houston's Alley Theatre in 2004, directed by the author.

"Everyone has really out done themselves for this production" commented assistant director, Keri Graff. "The set, costumes, and actors are all top-notch."

General admission is $10 and $8 for seniors, students, and groups of 10 or more. Plaza Theatre season ticket holders are reminded they can use their season tickets for this event. Ticket reservations are strongly recommended and can be made by calling the box office at 979-282-2226 or online at whartonplazatheatre.org.

More information about this and other Plaza Theatre productions please visit whartonplazatheatre.org.

Tonight - Variety Show at the Wharton Plaza Theatre

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 16:38:00 +0000

Tonight, Saturday March 31st, at 7:30PM, is your last chance to see the wonderful talent participating in the Monterey Square Medicine Show at Wharton's Plaza Theatre. Musical acts ranging from show tunes to blues to Country Western to classical to original tunes make up the entertainment. The Show even closes with an audience sing-a-long to a variety of show tunes. Here's a selection of clips from just a few of the performances!

Monterey Square Medicine Show at the Plaza Theatre

Remember The Ed Sullivan Show? Laugh In? Sing Along With Mitch? Some of your favorite Plaza performers revisit those great old TV shows.

Come on out tonight and bring your friends and neighbors to enjoy some great local talent!

Variety Show Takes the Stage at the Plaza Theatre

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Sherland, IX Brand SEO Services) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 21:43:00 +0000

THE MONTEREY SQUARE MEDICINE SHOW

The Plaza Theatre, on Monterey Square in Wharton, will be presenting a variety show as a part of its current season entitled, The Monterey Square Medicine Show. This production provides an assortment of entertainment styles that will be performed Friday and Saturday, March 30 and 31, 2012. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30pm.

Remember The Ed Sullivan Show? Laugh In? Sing Along With Mitch? Some of your favorite Plaza performers revisit those great old TV shows.

General admission is $10 and $8 for seniors, students, and groups of 10 or more. Plaza Theatre season ticket holders are reminded they can use their season tickets for this event. Ticket reservations are strongly recommended and can be made by calling the box office at 979-282-2226 or online at whartonplazatheatre.org.

Remember that you can enjoy the Java Jam on Friday night and the Monterey Square Medicine Show on Saturday night for a weekend of great entertainment!