Automotive enthusiasts across the South Central United States are eagerly awaiting the return of the Wise County Antique Auto Club’s 50th annual Decatur Swap Meet. The event, set to take place this weekend at the Wise County Fairgrounds, promises to be a treasure trove for car enthusiasts looking to buy, sell, trade, and barter.

The swap meet, which runs from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday through Sunday, rain or shine, is a longstanding tradition that has seen upwards of 3,000 vendors in recent years. Vendor participation is encouraged, with a requirement to bring at least 80 percent automotive-related items. This event is not just a local gathering; it’s the first major automotive swap meet in the South Central United States, drawing in participants from far and wide.

Admission to the event is free, with paid parking available on the north and south sides of the fairgrounds for a minimal fee. This accessibility makes it an inclusive event for all, from casual enthusiasts to seasoned collectors.

In addition to the swap meet, the weekend is filled with other exciting events. The Decatur community will celebrate the grand reopening of Harmon Park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. The reopening includes the unveiling of a new skate park, food trucks, and free snow cones. The grand opening of the Seth Keener Skatepark will follow on Sunday, featuring music, food trucks, giveaways, and demonstrations from professional skaters.

For those interested in community engagement, the Rhome Police Department will hold a “Coffee with a Cop” event from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday at the McDonald’s in Rhome. This initiative aims to foster a positive relationship between the community and law enforcement, providing an open forum for residents to interact with officers in a casual setting.

The Bridgeport Parks and Recreation Department will host its annual Daddy/Daughter Dance on Friday and Saturday at the Bridgeport Community Center. This year’s theme is disco, and tickets are $12 each, with daughters under 2 admitted free. The dances will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and 7:30 to 9 p.m. both nights, offering a fun and memorable experience for fathers and daughters alike.

For those considering fostering, Cumberland Youth and Family Services will host an informational meeting about fostering at 6 p.m. tonight at the Decatur Public Library. This session will provide helpful guidance for anyone interested in becoming a foster parent or learning more about the process.

The Decatur Chamber of Commerce will host its February Luncheon on Tuesday at the Decatur Conference Center. Decatur ISD interim Superintendent Karen Rue will provide a state of the district update. RSVP by noon today to secure your spot.

Medical City Decatur will host a Carter BloodCare blood drive from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Friday at the hospital’s main entrance. To donate, sign up at the provided link. Blood donations are crucial for maintaining a stable blood supply, especially during times of increased need.

The Decatur Police Department is accepting applications for the 2025 Back the Blue Scholarship. This scholarship is available to graduating seniors committed to furthering their education in a public service-related field. All applications and supporting documents must be submitted by 5 p.m. on April 4. Applications are available from school counselors, in-person at the police department, or online at the City of Decatur website.

The 73rd Annual Wise County Youth Fair is next week, and you can find a preview of the event — including a full schedule — in this week’s Wise County Messenger on newsstands today. This event is a highlight of the year for many families, offering a variety of activities and competitions for youth.

Weather Update: Another Day Below Freezing

Thursday started with a chilling 9 degrees and a wind chill of 5 below zero just before 8 a.m. The high temperature is expected to climb to 28 today with an overnight low of 18. The extreme cold warning that Wise County has been under since Tuesday night is set to expire at 9 a.m. this morning.

“We were off to another cold start to the day Thursday with a temperature of 9 degrees and a wind chill of 5 below zero just before 8 a.m.”

The cold snap has affected daily activities, with residents urged to take precautions to stay warm and safe. Schools and businesses have been advised to monitor the weather closely and make necessary adjustments to schedules.

For those planning outdoor activities, such as the upcoming swap meet, it’s important to dress in layers and stay hydrated. The National Weather Service advises checking local forecasts regularly and being prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.

Community Events and Services

In addition to the swap meet and other community events, several notable services and memorials are taking place this weekend.

Service for Lucy Lynn Ray of Krum is 2 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery. Visitation for Dennis Goforth, 76, of Rhome is 6-9 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins-Decatur. A memorial service for Opal Taylor Shaw, 93, of Decatur is 2 p.m. Tuesday at First Baptist Church in Decatur. Hawkins-Decatur is handling arrangements.

Service for Susan Robinson, 80, of Muenster is pending at Hawkins-Decatur. Funeral for Richard Kelley, 84, of Haltom City is 1 p.m. Friday at North Pointe Baptist Church in Hurst with burial at 3:30 p.m. at Paradise Cemetery. Family visitation is 6-8 p.m. tonight at the church. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.

Graveside service for Mary Louise Rooney, 103, of Bridgeport is 12:30 p.m. Saturday at Memory Lane Cemetery in Anadarko, Okla. Hawkins-Bridgeport is handling arrangements. Funeral for David Ray Moody, 61, of Wizard Wells is 2 p.m. today at Hudson & Torres Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.

Graveside service for Claudia Lawson, 83, of Bridgeport is 2 p.m. Monday at Thomas Cemetery in Bridgeport. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Hudson & Torres. Funeral Mass for Michael Collins, 71, is noon Saturday at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Fort Worth, followed by a graveside service at 3 p.m. at Montague Catholic Cemetery.

No service is scheduled for Ted Dwayne Miller, 90, of Bridgeport. Memorial service for Roy Dean Moore, 87, is 2:30 p.m. Saturday in Mount Olivet Chapel in Fort Worth. Family visitation is 1:30-2:30 p.m.