
Acts of Kindness | Citizen of the Year | Call Him Moose | Archive
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Norman "Moose" Pearah Norman Pearah grew up in the small town of Crossett, Arkansas with good friend Barry Switzer; by the way, Barry is one year older than Norman is. During High School, he played football and secured his life long nickname, Moose. The nickname comes as no surprise when you encounter this 6’6” giant of a man. However, do not let his name and stature intimidate you he comes equipped with a smile and a fantastic story. A star athlete in his hometown he caught the attention of Oklahoma University who picked him up to play ball. He continued to play Defensive End and drew continuous attention as an incredible football player. In 1959, after he finished his junior year at OU he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles whisked him away to big city life but Philadelphia never felt like home to this small town boy. Even though he felt like a fish out of water, it did not detour his game. During this time in football, the average player lasted only three to four years. The game was rougher and they sported less protective gear. The monetary compensation, while good for the time was considerably less than players make today. While Moose made out all right, many ball players had to take on second jobs to support their families for the love of the sport. He played for the Eagles from 1959 through 1963 winning the NFL Championship in 1960. Yes, that was before they called it the Super bowl! The coveted ring adorns his right ring finger and he wears it with pride. “I was born too early,” says Moose referring to the enormous salaries and celebrity status of today’s players. He continued, “Both of my knees have been replaced and I broke every finger in both of my hands but if I had it to do all over again I would.” When he hung up his football helmet, he replaced it with another and became a racecar driver for Chrysler Corporation. Being a smart man it did not take him long to realize that the financial gain was on the other side of the track not on it. He quickly purchased Harmon Raceway in Monroe, Louisiana in 1969. That is where his passion for drag racing begins. Not long after he purchased his first drag strip, he acquired tracks in La Place, Houma and Lake Charles, Louisiana. He owned and operated the Cajun Nationals in Baton Rouge, Sports Nationals in Houston, Southern Nationals in Commerce, Georgia and Mid South Nationals in Memphis. In 1991, he left the racetracks behind and decided to kick back for a while in Texas. Not use to having idle time Moose decided to open Moose Motors in Lewisville to have something to do. Not surprising Moose Motors took off and several locations opened in Texas and Louisiana. Now called Texas Title Loans, the business is thriving. In 2001, he took on a partner, his oldest son, Todd Pearah, to help him run the business. Moose has five children and maintains a close relationship with all of them. Moose and his stunning wife and “best friend” Patrys purchased several acres in the 380 corridor and built their home in Cross Roads in 2000. They fashioned their home after the Louisiana Governor’s mansion where they regularly held their press conferences for the Cajun Nationals when he owned the track. Moose Ranch is the name of the property they reside at and the name of his real-estate investment company. He has 38 acres for development across from Fishtrap Road on Highway 380 where he plans to release 13.2 treed acres to make available for 12 office complexes. He plans to sell the additional 25 acres together. A major hotel chain and several box stores have shown considerable interest in the property. He also holds 1.89 acres between Bubba B’s and the location that Prosper Bank will soon start construction on as well as the land on the west side of Bubba B’s. “I tried to retire but I just keep so busy,” said Moose. Bubba B’s is his latest venture and plans on opening five more in small towns across North Texas. This Cajun themed restaurant has gained instant popularity. Moose revealed that he has considered using the available land on the West side of Bubba B’s for a Sports Bar or possibly a Steak House. Moose is a creative businessperson, adoring husband and supportive father. He is helpful, friendly and kind hearted. He is an active member of Covenant Church where he donated the beautiful cross that adorns the outside of the new sanctuary. He also donated several horses for children with disabilities to learn how to ride and interact with these beautiful animals. He has been a private pilot since the late 1950’s and enjoys flying on nice weather days. Moose loves to Deep Sea Fish and his big fish tail is a reality! The 493 pound 13’ 6” Swordfish that takes front and center at Bubba B’s was his prize while fishing in Cabo San Lucas. He caught this fish on February 22, 2004 after a fight time of 3 hours and 52 minutes. So, next time you are in Bubba B’s check out the sword fish and do not be surprised if you see a 6’6” man in there dining with his family and friends. He might even be helping if he is in there when it gets busy by bringing your plate to your table and if he does just call him MOOSE. |
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