January Events Around Texas

Posted on January 5, 2015 by admin

Thomas Hawk/Flickr Creative Commons

Before you start planning for January events in Texas, be sure to stop by Johnson Bros. Ford Lincoln to get your vehicle serviced or for the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance. Or, if you are thinking about getting a new Ford, stop by to test drive a vehicle or four. Once you have a new vehicle or your current vehicle is properly maintained or serviced, you’ll be ready to hit the road for January events.

20th Annual Eagle Fest

The 20th Annual Eagle Fest will take place on Saturday, January 17, 2015 at Rains High School campus, 1759 W. US Highway 69, Emory, Texas. Should the weather not cooperate, the alternate date is January 24, 2015. Admission is $2.00 and children 6 years and under are free. Stop by for all types of handmade items. Or, if you want to sell your wares, vendor booths are available. For more information, call (903) 473-3913 or email rainschamber@verizon.net.

Ft. Worth Stock Show and Rodeo

The Ft. Worth Stock Show and Rodeo will take place from January 16, 2015 through February 7, 2015. Enjoy educational programs, livestock events, commercial exhibits and a carnival/midway. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6 to 16 and free for children under 5 years.

The gates are open from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. The rodeo ticket office is open from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday until January 15, from noon until 5:00 p.m. on January 4 and 11 (Sundays), and from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. every day from January 16 through February 7, 2015.

The exhibit hall hours are from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Sunday though Friday; and from 9:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Saturday. This includes the Amon Carter Exhibit Hall and the Brown-Lupton North and Brown-Lupton South halls.

Depending on the day, the midway is open at 4:00 p.m., 10:00 a.m. or noon and closes at 10:00 p.m. or 11:00 p.m. The Rodeo Roadhouse is closed on Sundays and Mondays. It is open from 6:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. on Tuesdays through Thursdays, from 6:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. on Fridays, and from noon until 1:00 a.m. on Saturdays.

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame is open from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday; from 10:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays – expect on Jan. 31 and Feb. 7, when it closes at 5:00 p.m. for special events; and it is open on Sundays from noon until 5:00 p.m.

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is open from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Mondays through Saturdays and from noon until 5:00 p.m. on Sundays. The Cattle Raisers Museum is open from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Mondays though Saturdays and from noon until 5:00 p.m. on Sundays.

Restaurants including Reata at the Rodeo, La Espuela, Stockman’s Cafe Barn 2 and Round Up Inn Food Court are also open for limited hours, except the Stockman’s Cafe Barn 2, which is open for 24 hours.

Stop by Johnson Bros. Ford Lincoln

Stop by Johnson Bros. Ford Lincoln today to test drive a new vehicle or call for an appointment to have your vehicle serviced or maintained.

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Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Posted on October 27, 2014 by admin

If you need a relaxing place to get away to soon, check out the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. This area is located within the foothills of the Arbuckle Mountains in Murray County, Oklahoma. Often called an Oklahoma oasis, this area boasts natural springs, streams and lakes. This is one of Oklahoma’s oldest national park areas and includes both the Platt Historic District and the Lake of the Arbuckles. There are many activities that can be enjoyed at both areas by guests such as biking, birding, auto touring, boating, hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing and various water activities when the weather permits.

There is an abundance of photographic opportunities here and can be viewed either by car or bicycle. Biking is an extremely popular way of viewing the Platt Historic District. There is a paved road that runs through it for a nice ride in your Temple Ford along with a variety of trails that offer many experiences for riders of all abilities.

The Chickasaw National Recreation Area is known for its natural beauty. Guests are encouraged to hike or walk the many trails offered here. Many of the trails pass by rushing waterfalls or streams and offer stunning views. Birdwatchers and wildflower enthusiasts will enjoy a wide array of species in this diverse ecosystem. There are seven different trail heads to choose from, all which are fairly easy. For a very easy hike, try the Flower Park trail with a distance of just one-half mile. A moderate trail is located at Veteran’s Lake with a distance of 2.8 miles.

The Travertine Nature Center is the park’s educational center. It’s located near the edge of the Platt Historic District and contains exhibits, live reptiles, and an interactive learning area for visitors of every age. Here you will also find an information desk and bookstore. There are six public campgrounds including the Platt Historic District, which is ideal for tent and family camping. Within the Platt Historic District are three campgrounds to choose from, the Cold Springs Campground, Central Campground and Rock Creek Campground.

This amazing area is just four hours north of Johnson Brothers Ford. Pack up the car and head out with your loved ones for a great time.

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Cane River Creole National Historical Park

Posted on September 26, 2014 by admin

jkguin/Flickr Creative Commons

As the weather begins to cool off in the south, you may be thinking about taking the family on a trip. Even if it’s just a weekend excursion, feel free to explore the places not too far from your Temple Ford dealer. One such place is the Cane River Creole National Historic Park.

This park, rich with history, is located in Parish, Louisiana within the Cane River National Heritage Area. This park includes 18.72 acres of the Magnolia Plantation and 44.16 acres of the Oakland Plantation. These two sites embrace a total of 67 historical homes and structures from over 200 years of farm life. Since the establishment of the park in 1994, the National Park Service has made enormous investments in the growth of this park. It takes pride in preserving these significant sites, landscapes and historical structures connected with the growth of the Creole culture.

Admission to the park and both the Magnolia and Oakland Plantations is free. Reservations are required for guests with groups larger than 15 people. Both plantations are open daily from 8am to 4pm. There is a guided tour every day at 1pm for the Oakland House while the Magnolia House is closed to tours at this time. Cell phone tours, however, are available at both locations. Visitors of all ages can enjoy activities at both of the plantations. There is a Junior Ranger program for the kids and Civil War trading cards to collect. Picking pecans is a family favorite during the fall months. Many picnic tables are located throughout the park as well.

Guests are welcome to pick their own vegetables at the Oakland Plantation Garden. There are many seasonal crops which were traditionally grown here. In the spring, the garden has peppers, okra, squash, eggplant and many other vegetables. The Oakland Garden was made possible by hard working staff members and local volunteers. While camping is not allowed in this park, there are many easily accessible campgrounds located nearby. The Nakatosh RV Park is just a 15-minute drive in your Johnson Brothers Ford. This park offers 30 tent sites, some with lakefront or pine forest views. Restrooms and showers are provided along with a laundry area and complimentary Wi-Fi access.

Enjoy the scenery and history at this wonderful park.

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September Events

Posted on September 5, 2014 by admin

Brooke Anderson/Flickr Creative Commons

With fall around the corner, you may find yourself wondering what to do for fun this coming month. There are several great activities going on around your Temple Ford dealer this month. Check them out.

Pinterest Party

On September 4 at 6pm, join others at the Blackmon Community Center for a Pinterest Party. Enjoy a night out and bring a friend or two. Delight in delicious appetizers while partaking in Pinterest projects. All supplies will be provided along with child care for children 5 & up. Admission is just $15 per person.

Basic Dog Obedience Class

Teach your dog some new tricks by sending him to the basic obedience class on September 5. It will be held at Sammons Community Center. This class is designed for dogs and owners. Learn verbal commands and hand signals such as heel, stay and sit. Dogs must be up to date on all vaccinations and on leash.

Canoes & Kayaks

Join like-minded individuals for some fun on the water on September 13. Meet at the Wilson Park Recreation Center at 8am to be transported to Fort Parker State Park for a day of canoeing and kayaking fun. Expect to be in the outdoors all day so be sure you have proper equpiment and essentials. Guests will also need to bring along a pre-packed lunch for the day. Admission is only $12 per person for some late summer kayaking.

Second Saturday Community Market

Also on September 13 at 8am begins the Community Market. The second Saturday of every month holds creative works of art by local artists, fresh jellies and jams along with unique arts and crafts. Take in the many fresh tastes, smells and sights of this small local market. This beats any main retail grocery store by far.

32nd Annual Temple Model Train Show

Be one of the first to view the remarkable 32nd Annual Temple Model Train Show and Exhibit this year. It will be held on September 20 and 21 from 10am until 5pm at the Frank Mayborn Convention Center. This is your chance to meet fellow locomotive enthusiasts, share stories and watch demonstrations. There is no charge for children under 12. Adults are $6.

Remember to check out these events while cruising around town in your Johnson Brothers Ford.

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Amistad National Recreation Area

Posted on August 21, 2014 by admin

Corey Leopold/Flickr Creative Commons

There are several parks and recreation sites that fill the south Texas area, and not far from the border, in Del Rio, Texas, is a beautiful place called the Amistad National Recreation Area. This oasis is just a few hours southwest from Johnson Brothers Ford and is known for world-class boating and fishing due to the clear waters. Also nearby are ancient rock, which attract visitors from all over the globe. The Amistad National Recreation Area is America’s portion of the International Amistad Reservoir, which lies between the United States and Mexico. Some of the rock formations here include 4,000 year old rock art. You can view paintings on rock walls and in numerous sites through the area.

Anglers have discovered that the Amistad Reservoir provides top-class, year-round fishing. You can find both large-mouth and small-mouth bass along with the striped bass, catfish, crappie, sunfish and alligator gar. In order to help maintain a top-quality fishery, catch and release is encouraged and should be practiced.

There are many hiking trails available here. A short nature trail is located at Diablo East. Along the trail you can learn about a wide variety of plants stunning views of Lake Amistad.. The Sunrise Trail starts at the visitor’s center and is 2.1 miles long, leading you to Spur 454. On the trail, you can catch sight of a diverse number of birds and plants.

The body of water at the site is approximately 60,000 acres and stays in pristine conditions for most of the year. A boater’s hidden gem, ski boats, houseboats, watercrafts and jet skis are commonly seen here. Hitching your boat to your Temple Ford truck is highly recommended. The water is so clear that it has become popular with scuba divers and swimmers. Pick up your scuba diving brochure upon arriving at the visitor’s center. A dive cove can be located at Diablo East.

The area does offer five camping and RV sites. The sites are all primitive with no hookups. However, an RV dump station along with potable water is located along the road of the Diablo East boat ramp. All spaces are on a first come, first serve basis.

Don’t hesitate to go check this Texas treasure out for yourself. Let us know how it goes!

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August Events in Texas

Posted on August 8, 2014 by admin

The Lone Star state always has something going on during the year for the entire family and August is no exception. Check out these events and plan some summertime getaways to end summer on a high note.

With August events going strong throughout the month, if you’d like to take advantage of all the activities planned but your current vehicle isn’t up to the task, our inventory at Johnson Bros. Ford and Lincoln may have just what you need. Choose from new and pre-owned cars, trucks, vans and SUVs. We’ve got them all.

Texas August Events

Satisfy your sweet tooth Saturday, August 9, at the Austin Ice Cream Festival. Load up on lots of fun, live entertainment, contest, activities, games and the best tasting ice cream in town from 10am-7pm. Ticket gets you into the festival and free ice cream.

If the Ice Cream Festival cools things down, then the Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival will definitely heat things up on Sunday, August 24 at Fiesta Gardens. For 24 years, the festival has spiced up local events with hundreds of entries plying their original recipes.

Enjoy the Greatest Show on Earth in Dallas at the American Airlines Center through August 10, or mosey over to Fort Worth to the Frank Erwin Center where the performances will “wow” you August 13-August 17.

While you’re in Fort Worth, take in the many colors and fragrances at the 2014 Fall Home & Garden Show at the Fort Worth Convention Center August 16-August 17.

The 41st Annual World Championship BBQ Goat Cook-Off takes place in Brady August 29-30. Along with contestants vying for the title of “best barbecue,” entertainment includes games for the kids, handcrafted arts and crafts, live entertainment, races, tournaments, and plenty of good food. On Saturday, bring your dancing shoes for the Street Dance starting at 8pm at the courthouse square.

Enjoy your August adventure at the Central Texas State Fair August 29-August 30. Enjoy rides, games, live concerts Friday, Saturday and Sunday, livestock shows, pro bull riding Saturday and Sunday, and a variety of fair food and beverages to satisfy any palate.

Our staff at Johnson Bros. can help you make the right decision when it comes to a new or pre-owned Ford or Lincoln. Contact Johnson Bros. today and get ready to ride.

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Padre Island National Seashore

Posted on June 30, 2014 by admin

Are you looking for a place to visit this summer that has natural beauty and pure relaxation? If so, the Padre Island National Seashore is your spot. Load up your friends and family in your Temple Ford car or truck and reconnect with nature. There are a wide variety of things to do leaving endless opportunities for everyone to enjoy something new and beautiful.

If you’re traveling with children, this is their chance to become official Junior Rangers. This program is intended for children ages 5 to 13. They are provided with a booklet that contains activities which will help them learn the secrets that make Padre Island so extraordinary. Explore the area and do the booklet activities together as a family. Once it is completed, give the booklet to the park ranger and your child can be sworn in as an official National Park Junior Ranger and be given a ranger badge.

Traveling with a motorhome? Many RVer’s enjoy staying at the Bird Island Basin also known as the BIB campsite. Camping is first come first served here and RVs are welcome though no hookups are provided. The Island campgrounds do offer RV dump stations along with water filling stations. Tghere is a bathhouse with showers that are within walking distance of the Visitors Center.

Many guests enjoy visiting this island for the fishing opportunities as well. Padre Island has become one of the biggest hot spots for this hobby. Fishing does require a state issued fishing license along with a saltwater stamp. You can easily pick one up outside the park at any tackle shop or gas station.

We hope you packed your binoculars because you’re in for a birding treat here. This location is known for having more bird species than any other city within the United States. Padre Island National Seashore spans over 130,000 acres making it an exceptional place for avid bird watchers. For the last 10 years running, the city of Corpus Christi where the park is located has won the contest for being the birdiest city in the U.S. Come and enjoy the crisp sea air and be lulled to sleep by the water splashing against the shoreline. The friendly staff at Johnson Brothers Ford wish you a safe and happy journey.

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Image by Stuart Seeger via Flickr Creative Commons

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Lyndon B. Johnson Library and Museum

Posted on May 27, 2014 by admin

There’s nothing more rewarding than visiting historical places of people who have really made a difference in our lives. One such person who made dozens of contributions while he had office was President Lyndon B. Johnson. There is a library dedicated to him, his life, and his wife in Austin, Texas. Before we get into his great accomplishments and what he achieved, it’s important to understand who he was and where he came from.

Lyndon B. Johnson was born in central Texas and worked his way through poverty and Southwest Texas State Teachers College. He saw how important it was to help those in his shoes and so he ran for House of Representatives in 1937. He was aided by his wife, Lady Bird, who he married in 1934. He was elected to the Senate in 1948 and became the most commanding Majority Leader of the 1900s. He ran alongside President John F Kennedy during the 1960 election and was voted as his Vice President. After the fateful day Kennedy was assassinated, Johnson became the 36th President.

After taking office, Johnson pushed through two bills which had begun under Kennedy. The first one became the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the other was a tax cut act. Because of his already outstanding achievements during his short term as president, he was quickly voted back in during the 1964 election. Throughout this term, he passed more than 60 education bills, began an urban renewal campaign, tackled the crime and delinquency rate, and initiated the fight against poverty and so much more. One of his other greatest contributions was the Medicare Amendment.

Before his untimely death in 1973 from a heart attack, he had just heard word that peace was within reach in Vietnam. This man lived an incredible life full of amazing things. He loved his country so much and gave so much to it. Give back by celebrating his life and contributions to the world by visiting his museum and library. You will learn so much more about him through the exhibits and events held at the center. So load up the family Ford and head on down to Austin. There is something for everyone to do here. Happy travels from Johnson Brothers Ford.

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Image by Blue Genie Art via Flickr Creative Commons

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Getting Your Ford Ready For Spring Break

Posted on February 28, 2014 by admin

good to the last drop

Road trips are fun and exciting and are largely popular during Spring Break. Students, teachers, and other persons who desire a break from the dull ending winter months strive for sunny beaches and warmer climates. Before you head out this year to your favorite vacation hideaway, make sure your Ford is just as ready to go as you are. There are several things to check before you hit the road.

Oil changes are usually pretty cheap and quick at most places. This is wonderful since it is a crucial, key component when readying your pride and joy for a Spring Break road trip. While you are at your Temple Ford dealer getting your oil changed, it’s a great idea to make sure they have checked your fluids and topped off as necessary. This includes the power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and brake fluid. You don’t want to get caught down the road with an overheated engine, so also check your coolant levels.

Tires are designed to wear out, so check to see that you have ample tread on your tires. If you aren’t sure, use the penny trick. Grab a penny and stick it into the grooves of the tread with his head down. If you can see his entire head clearly, it’s time for new tires. Also, be sure to keep an eye on the PSI in your tires. The proper inflation amount should be listed either in your owner’s manual or the inside sticker of the driver’s side door. Proper PSI will also give you better fuel economy on your trip.

Don’t overload your vehicle. Only take with you the things you really need. Take out those school books, gym bags, or other unneeded objects before you pack for your adventure. The lighter your car or truck, the better mileage you ultimately receive. Keep your speed in check, too. We all get excited to get to our destination, but easy does it. Remember that every 10 miles per hour you go over the limit is going to decrease your fuel efficiency.

Keep this simple checklist in mind before you head out for Spring Break. If you need assistance with any of these items, stop by Johnson Brothers Ford. Our friendly service department staff is more than willing to assist you.

Photo by Robert S. Donovan (Flickr Creative Commons)

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President’s Day Road Trip

Posted on February 17, 2014 by admin

Lyndon B. Johnson, Time cover January 1, 1965, "Man of the Year"

Lyndon B. Johnson – Photo by Cliff (Flickr Creative Commons)

One holiday that doesn’t get as much notice as it should is President’s Day. This special day honors all of the presidents we’ve had since our country’s birth in 1776.

It primarily began as a day of celebration in honor of our nation’s first president, George Washington. Our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln, was also born in the month of February, and so the third Monday in February of every year has been dubbed President’s Day. Let’s not only commemorate these great leaders, but all of the ones who have served this great nation.

Some people simply enjoy having the day off or the long weekend that sometimes precedes this holiday. For others, sitting at home just will not do. If you’re looking for something more interesting to do this President’s Day weekend, take a road trip with your Ford through the amazing state of Texas and see where a few of the presidents were born or lived.

The first president on our list was born in Stonewall, Texas. Lyndon B. Johnson was the 36th president, and he was born, raised, and passed away at his ranch on land that was passed down from his ancestors. His ranch and surrounding land has been turned into a National Historic Park that you may visit any day of the year. They have guided tours of all areas, including his childhood home, the Johnson Settlement, and the Texas White House.

Heading due northwest of Stonewall lies Midland, the town that George W. Bush calls home. There you’ll find the 43rd president’s childhood home. It has also now become a protected Presidential Site. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and has been restored to its original 1950s look. Learn about two of our country’s presidents, their families, and their work during office.

If you have more time on your long weekend, take the drive on over Northeast of Midland to Denison, Texas. Here is where you will find where President Eisenhower lived and spent the first few years of his life. He did move around a lot before his presidency and ended up living in Pennsylvania afterwards.

If you’re looking for a different way to spend your President’s Day Weekend, load up your Johnson Brothers Ford and hit the road.

(Photo Source)

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