Proud
Good news about Mexia, Texas, for the people who live here
Hometown Mexia’s Historic Churches HEROs grows leaders
Update from the County
Kiddie sports effects last Navarro College growing
County blanketed in history Honor Roll of Business and much more...
The Mexia News
Proud
Hometown Page 2 • Thursday, February 27, 2014
There are plenty of reasons to be Hometown
Proud
The day-to-day routine of life does one thing to all of us: makes us forget the qualities and activities, the triumphs large and small that make our hometown a very special place. This edition of Hometown Proud is our way of reminding ourselves, and our readers, of some of the many, many things in which we all can take pride. For instance, this 26-page special section includes stories on the triumphs and growth at Navarro College, Mexia’s historically designated churches, the history and impact of strong youth sports organizations here, and much, much more. Hometown Proud is not meant to be an all-encompassing compendium of everything good about Mexia life, but rather a random series of reminders about the things that make life here unique and special. We hope you enjoy this 2014 edition of Hometown Proud!
– The staff of The Mexia News
Inside…
Historic Churches of Mexia St. John A.M.E.
Page 2-7 Pages 2-3
First Baptist
Pages 4-5
First Presbyterian
Page 6-7
HEROs program grows leaders Update from the County
Pages 8-10
Pages 12-14
Kiddie sports effects long-lasting Navarro College growing
Page 15-17
Pages 18-19
County blanketed in history
Pages 20-21, 24-25
Honor Roll of Business
Pages 22-23
Hometown Proud is a publication of
The Mexia News
214 N. Railroad Street, Mexia, Texas www.themexianews.com (254) 562-2868
The Mexia News
Historic churches played key role in founding of city of Mexia
hree churches in Mexia have their own historical markers – First Baptist Church, First Presbyterian Church and St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church – all dating to the time the town was founded in 1871. They are situated just a few blocks from each other, perhaps reflecting the smaller dimensions of an earlier Mexia.
T
First Baptist and First Presbyterian began in Springfield, Limestone County’s first county seat. The decision in 1871 by Houston & Texas Central Railroad to bypass Springfield and move to its own newly formed city of Mexia spelled Springfield’s doom and laid the steps for the future of those two churches as well as many individuals.
St. John AME’s roots also date to the 1870s when a church was set up for African American people to worship. The strength of character of the people of all three churches is shown in enduring through that time and the many changes since then. Each church emphasizes openness to people of all races and backgrounds.
St. John A.M.E. Church 308 W. Milam Street By Roxanne McKnight
S
t. John African Methodist Episcopal Church is long on history but short on membership. Currently the church has eight members. But the members don’t see that as a problem. “The important thing about our church is that right now, though attendance is low we have a really giving spirit and we’re really community-oriented,” said Renée Turner, who has been a member of St. John AME for about 15 years. “It’s the atmosphere, the loving atmosphere, a real sharing kind of spirit.” According to St. John AME’s historical marker, its history goes back to the 1870s. Organized as the African Methodist Episcopal Church of Mexia in 1903, the name was changed to St. John AME between 1908 and 1915 after member Johnnie Lynn, who became its pastor. A well-known African-American dentist, Dr. Samuel M. Pollock, who served two terms as a Mexia city commissioner, was one of the church’s notable members and trustees. Longtime member Velma Ranson, who played piano for the church but passed away a few years ago, used to talk about St. John as a pillar of society back in the day, Turner said. There was a school at St. John AME that served
as a shelter during bad weather, probably because it was one of the few places in Mexia with an actual basement, Turner said. The church had a big bell that tolled for deaths, births or emergencies in the community; it also rang the time. For a long time it sat on the ground outside the church, but now it is stored away. Current pastor Delphine L. Vasser, of Dallas, is going into her fifth year as pastor at St. John AME, having been assigned there in November 2008 by the bishops that govern the African Methodist Episcopal Church. She’s served for 33 years in ministry, 25 years pastoring. Currently St. John AME has eight members. “Our goal is discipleship, so during the summer we’re going to be having a tutorial as to how to begin to outreach to our community rather than waiting for people to come to our church,” Vasser said. “So we’re going to be doing an extensive training process and then take the training out to the community. This is going to be our first attempt, and it will continue during the course of the summer.” Evangelist Jackie Ross Roy, who is certified by the Connectional AME church in evangelism and church growth, will train the members in July; then in August, they will go out into the community, Vasser said. Continued on next page
The Rev. Delphine Vasser pastors St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, Mexia, one of three Mexia churches that has its own historical marker. The congregation’s history dates to the 1870s. Mexia News photo/Roxanne McKnight
Proud
Hometown Continued from previous page
“It’s always been a low number,” she said of the church membership. “It appears that the Lord has called me to rural ministry.” Vasser has pastored a total of five churches throughout her career, and each had eight members only, she said. St. John AME does not have a choir, but different combinations of church members sing as a duo or trio. One common trio consists of Annie Calhoun, Nell McDaniels and David O’Neal Echols.
Church school is Sunday at 10, with worship following at 11. They call it church school rather than Sunday school because it can be held any day of the week, Vasser explained. The first Wednesday is for community outreach, where the pastor and several members visit nursing home residents. On the third and fourth Wednesday is Bible study at the church at 1:30 p.m. On the second and fifth Wednesday, prayer meeting is held at the church. Two other AME churches joined with St. John AME during
Each Wednesday, the pastor and members of St. John AME Church, of Mexia, perform community outreach, usually at local nursing homes, where they have Bible readings, singing and hold a communion service. Shown here, standing, are Annie Calhoun, left, and St. John AME Pastor Delphine Vasser; and seated are Manor Healthcare residents Cardie Brackens, left, and Ethel Miller. Mexia News photo/Roxanne McKnight
Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 3
its history, Little Bethel from the east side of Mexia, which was physically moved to the property and became the fellowship hall. In 1997, Smith Chapel, which had been in the Woodland area east of Mexia, moved its membership to St. John AME. A current project the church is undertaking is a capital campaign for the development of the Lorene McDaniel Fellowship Hall. Their goal is to raise $40,480 for the renovations of the hall, which they had to discontinue using last year because of its state of disrepair, Vasser said. On the fourth Sunday of February, they will hold a Founders Day celebration in honor of Bishop Richard Allen, who founded the Connectional AME church. There are 20 episDr. Samuel M. Pollock, shown possibly with his wife, copal districts which Ruby McBay Pollock, was a trustee for St. John African cover 39 countries on Methodist Episcopal Church. He opened a dental pracfive continents in the tice in Mexia in 1921, while his wife was a schoolteacher. African Methodist Contributed photo Episcopal Church, and each is presided over by a bishop. Texas comwith unity. prises the 10th Episcopal District “Our purpose is to serve the and is led by Bishop Vashti Murphy Lord, encourage people, provide McKenzie, the first female to be quality service and exude a welelected as bishop in the AME coming personality,” their literaChurch’s history. ture proclaims. Vasser said the church’s mantra “We’re a church that loves this year is “Loving God, loving people,” Vasser said. “We concenpeople unconditionally.” trate on the totality of the individAccording to their mission ual person. It doesn’t matter what statement, St. John African ethnic group that you’re involved Methodist Episcopal Church’s goal in or affiliated with – everyone is is to be inclusive, be guided by the welcome.” Bible and offer friendly fellowship
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Hometown Page 4 • Thursday, February 27, 2014
Mexia’s Historic Churches First Baptist Church 500 E. Carthage Street By Roxanne McKnight
A
t 550 members, First Baptist Church, Mexia is one of the biggest churches in town. Current FBC senior pastor the Rev. Marcus Sheffield. is about to complete his 25th year in that post. Born and raised in Mexia, Sheffield spent an additional four years before being senior pastor as the church’s youth minister. According to the church’s historical marker, First Baptist Church, Mexia was originally founded in the former county seat of Springfield, but when the Houston & Texas Railroad abandoned
Springfield for the new town it formed named Mexia, the church moved to the new little town. The Rev. W. Henry Parks is credited with founding First Baptist Church, Mexia. The congregation first met in a lodge hall before constructing its first Mexia church building in 1873. Since then, it has had four church buildings. Sheffield attributes the church’s longevity to sticking with biblical principles. “We’ve been here a long time, but we still believe that people want to hear what God has to say about things,” he said. “I’m a firm believer in the Word of God, the Bible. I think any church that
chooses to preach what the Bible says unapologetically, and with love – you have to speak the truth in love – if you stand upon God’s principles and stand upon His word, He promises to keep giving you the opportunity to minister to people.” Sheffield has several other pastors who help him in the work: Marc Wilson is music minister, Kevin Jones the youth minister and Jack Ballard is minister of activities and senior adults. There are multiple choirs that Wilson oversees with help from several other ministers for the children’s singing groups: Chorale, Worship Orchestra, Adult Handbells, Youth Praise Team,
Drama Team, Children’s Choir, Preschool Choir, Bradley Quartet and the annual Easter Pageant, which is put on by musicians, singers and actors not only from FBC but also by members of other area churches. “Every spring, we tell the story of Christ in a very dramatic way, with music and acting,” Sheffield said of the annual Easter pageant. “I think that’s been something that our community has appreciated. Now we’ve also gotten involved in a winter project with the dinner theater, the Christmas event. That’s been a big deal, too.” Besides church activities, many Continued on next page
Each year, First Baptist Church, Mexia puts on a lavish rendition of the Christmas story using dozens of cast members and rich sets and costumes. This is the cast picture from the 2010 pageant. Contributed photo
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Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 5
Continued from previous page
community events are held at the large fellowship hall called the Christian Life Center, a 2,500square foot facility built in 2000. It is used as a dining hall for banquets and also for the church’s indoor children’s basketball and soccer leagues. It contains an indoor walking track that is free to members but also open to the public for a nominal fee. Scholarships for membership are available for those who cannot afford it. Hundreds of Mexia residents walk the indoor track for their health. The CLC has a physical training room with cardio and aerobic exercise machines, and holds lessons in various types of physical training. There is also a game room and seating area, so it appeals to people of all ages. “We hope we have been a support to our local organizations,” Sheffield said. “We try to do everything we can to support our local school district.” The CLC was recently used for the high school football banquet, before that the teachers appreciation banquet. “It allowed them to eat all in one room at the CLC; that was kind of cool,” he said. “Hopefully we’re a place that people can find help no matter what their problem is. And hopefully we’re a place that supports our community unconditionally. “We try to be a lighthouse, a place that people can go to and find answers that they’re looking for. And find love, find people that care. We are certainly not a perfect place, but we try to be a place that has an open door.” Sheffield sees the broadcasting of services on local television as a way to reach those who do not attend church in person. “We’re proud of the fact that we are on the cable network here in town, so we provide a service as far as people who are at home or homebound,” he said. “Even people who are just searching for something to fill their life can tune in on the television. “We’re proud we’ve been here this long. We wish we could do
First Baptist Church, Mexia has hundreds of members and is one of three Mexia churches with its own historical marker. Mexia News photo/Roxanne McKnight more. We don’t feel like we do everything.” The church may not do everything, but it does many things. There are multiple ministries to preschoolers, children, youth, men, women, seniors, Sunday school, vacation Bible school and midweek services. The women’s groups are involved in multiple ministries including Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Christmas Child, World Hunger, Baptist Student Union,
Mexia school uniforms, Christian Women Job Corps, Food Pantry, Texas Missions Banquet, Hospitality House at the Tennessee Colony and other ministries throughout the area. The men’s group has a weekly prayer breakfast and is involved in the Baptist Men’s group and other activities. Sunday School is at 9 a.m. and worship at 10:15. Services and special events are broadcast live on Northland Cable TV Channel 9 in
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Mexia, Lake Mexia and Groesbeck. “I would want people to know we feel like a family of believers that would welcome them,” Sheffield said, “that they would find a place of acceptance and belonging, a place where people would treat them fairly and with love. We would want to be known as a very receptive place in the community, that anybody of any race, creed or otherwise, would feel welcome.”
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Mexia’s Historic Churches First Presbyterian Church 209 E. Carthage Street By Roxanne McKnight
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ost drivers entering Mexia from the west will notice the golden-colored steeple of First Presbyterian Church immediately to the right of U.S. 84 as they cross the overpass. “The church stands almost as a monument as people pass through,” said First Presbyterian Interim Pastor Glen McGuire. “It’s a landmark for those of us who live here, and it has a rich history. But it was not the beauty, it was not the history that drew me to this church; it was the people. We’re just a big family, and that is important to me.” McGuire has been the music minister at the church for about 20 years, and used to fill in from time to time when the former pastor went on vacation. So when that pastor was called to another church, First Presbyterian’s congregation asked McGuire to become their interim pastor while they looked for the next church shepherd. “When I was young, I had thought of going into the ministry, and then somehow I fell into the teaching profession and have been doing that for over 30 years,” said McGuire who currently teaches pre-calculus at Mexia High School. As can be learned by reading First Presbyterian’s historical marker, the church started in Springfield, Limestone County’s former county seat, in the spring of 1871 by the Cumberland Presbyterians. In the fall of that year, however, the Houston & Texas Central Railroad decided to bypass Springfield and instead founded the town of Mexia, which it would pass through. According to Ray Walters, who wrote a history of Limestone County, the railroad divided Mexia into lots and gave two lots to at least four denominations, one of which was the Presbyterians. Dick Flatt, a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church, Mexia, is also a keeper of much of the church’s history and refers to Walters writings. “The railroads thought they needed churches to attract more desirable settlers,” he explained. In 1878, the Presbyterians built their first Mexia church, a long, narrow-framed building with a stoop that some say resembled a barn, Flatt said. Most people walked to church, but some came in buggies or on horses that were tied outside the building. Twenty years later, in 1898, they built their current church, which is in a style called Prairie Gothic. A group from the northern congregation joined First Presbyterian in 1905. Then a church called the Continued on next page
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The Rev. Glen McGuire, interim pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Mexia, shows the church’s historical marker.The church was founded in 1871 in Springfield, then moved to Mexia that same year when the railroad train bypassed Springfield in favor of Mexia. Mexia News photo/Roxanne McKnight
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They also have a large, heavy, intricately inlaid oak table in the fellowship hall that was made by the prisoners at the World War II prisoner-of war camp at what is now the State Supported Living
Center. The cross on top of the church Southern Presbyterians of Mexia was donated by a church member merged with them in 1942. and installed in 1966. Made of They still have an old comheavy aluminum painted gold, the munion table from the Northern cross is 5 feet tall with arms 3 feet Presbyterian USA group. wide. A solid bronze bell, cast in 1885, used to ring each Sunday, but no more. The bell is still in its place, Flatt said, but the rope is broken. “It leaks up there and we haven’t been able to get the thing fixed,” he said. “We’ve got to get some small, short trapeze artist to climb up there and fix the rope. Someday somebody will do it. It’s been done numerous times before.” One notable former pastor of First Presbyterian is Tom Prentiss, now executive director of Centex, which helps mentally challenged people in the Mexia area. Another notable member was famed songwriter Cindy Walker, who lived in Mexia for years with her mother. Walker was the church’s youth director when she was younger, then its choir director for a while, Flatt said. She wrote a song about the church called, “There’s a Little White Church with a Steeple.” In her will, Walker left to the church her beloved grand piano – on which she is said to have written many of her hit songs – and it holds a place of honor in the sanctuary. The church currently has about 100 members. “Our nickname is ‘the other church on Carthage Street,’” Flatt quipped in a nod to the huge First Baptist Church just two blocks away. Sunday school at 10; worship at 11 p.m. On Wednesday there is an informal prayer meeting at 5 p.m., and choir practice at 6. The women’s organization meets once a month. A men’s prayer breakInterim Pastor Glen McGuire of First Presbyterian Church, Mexia, shows the banner that fast has been meeting weekly was created in 1998 and signed by the members to note the church building’s 100th year. with men of several other When the congregation first moved to Mexia in 1871, the members met in a fellowship hall, local churches for 40 years. The church has a singing but then built the current church building in a style known as prairie Gothic. group well-known locally Mexia News photo/Roxanne McKnight
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called the Steeple Singers, which sings occasionally at funerals and special occasions. First Presbyterian has several outreach ministries under the name Helping Hands. “It’s our mission to reach as many people and to help as many people through our efforts with the Christmas food boxes, the Thanksgiving Meals on Wheels and the different things we do in the community,” McGuire said. “We’re very proud of how we’re able to help those in need.” “The main thing is we provide the leadership for the Helping Hands organization that raises money and gives food to the (needy) and for Toys for Tots, Flatt confirmed. The church also is regularly involved in the American Cancer Society fundraiser Relay for Life, and their church has won the award for most money raised several times. Their church has a second historical marker for being the birthplace of the Texas State Teachers Association. As for the next step in the church’s future, determining who the next pastor will be, the church is not in a hurry to make that decision. The Presbyterian Church has an intricate system for hiring new pastors, Flatt said, and it usually takes about a year. “We’re running behind this time,” he said, “but Glen is qualified so we don’t have to get in any hurry.” Neither does McGuire seem in a hurry. He is open to becoming the senior pastor if the church asks him. “As a member of the church, I’m happy to share my ministry with them,” McGuire said. “I would certainly welcome the opportunity to continue a ministry here. Apparently, some of the folks are satisfied with what I’m doing because they come back each Sunday. “Our doors are always open, and we welcome anyone and everyone to worship with us. It’s just a great place to worship among a lot of great Christian people.”
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Hometown Page 8 • Thursday, February 27, 2014
HERO program helps across community By Roxanne McKnight
T
his is the second year for a volunteer program at Mexia High School that continues to be popular among the students. The HERO program, which was started by teacher Jodie Maki, channels students’ energy outside class to do volunteer work at a variety of venues around the city. Maki, who works mainly with seniors at the school started the group with two purposes in mind. When students apply for college these days, a prominent question is, “What volunteer work have you done?” Before the HERO program, some students had no answer to that question, or the answer was “none.” Now these college-bound youths have a record of having worked for hours helping at a nursing home, a food pantry, perhaps an animal shelter or hospice. She had another idea in mind just as important, however. “I just think helping others is our little secret to life and happiness – and makes us better people,” she said. The only requirement is to be a senior or junior. Maki mainly works with seniors and dual-credit sudents; fellow teacher Tiffany Adair coordinates the junior students. There are about 100 members this year, about the same as last year. Membership is not formal signup or stipulations. If the students do at least two hours, they are considered members. Students must log 10 hours to get a T-shirt. She lists events and has signup sheets for people to volunteer. The members keep their hours in a large log book, recording what they did, the date and how long they were there. Maki keeps the book on hand so students applying for college entrance or scholarships will have their volunteer informa-
HERO program founder and sponsor at Mexia High School Jodie Maki shows the lists of work events student volunteers may sign up to do. Mexia News photo/Roxanne McKnight tion available. Since teens are usually quite social-minded and peer-focused, it should be no surprise that Maki found that many of the students
prefer working in groups. Consequently, she is planning more group events this year to capitalize on that phenomenon. This year she is trying to have
more team events rather than individual. Teens are so socially minded, they seem to do better in groups. Continued on next page
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Last year they did a citywide trash pickup around the end of the school year, and this year more than 100 HERO volunteers put in at least six hours at Relay for Life, the American
Cancer Society fundraiser, in October; and many worked on collecting, sorting and boxing food donations at the annual Food for Families food drive in December. Some other efforts with which they have volunteered: • Packs of Kindness, where they help fill
Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 9
backpacks of food to send home with kindergarteners and first graders whose families are financially challenged. • Mexia LTC, where they helped plan a Valentine’s Day party for the residents. • The Manor, where they have worked with residents on activities. • Caritas thrift store, where they help organize the donations. • LARAS House animal shelter, where they help with weekend pet adoption events. • McBay Elementary School, with Supermen, a dance activity for those who had perfect attendance, also with tutoring, mentoring and helping teachers with the children. • First Baptist Church’s Small Fry Soccer and Basketball, where they volunteered as referees. • First Presbyterian Church’s Toys for Tots, where they helped collect and distribute Christmas gifts. They are scheduled to help at a fun run to benefit Methodist Children’s Home in Waco on a Saturday in April. Some volunteers will man the water stations, and a few will actually run the race that benefits the home. They are not allowed to mentor those children since the residents’ ages range to 18 years. Students may make their own volunteer opportunities. That’s how the HEROs got Continued on next page
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involved with the children’s home. Another HERO, Reyna Escobedo, heard of an effort by jeans store Aeropostale to collect used blue jeans and spearheaded a drive at Mexia High School to collect donated blue jeans that were later given to the homeless through the organization. “She came to me and said, ‘Can I please do this? Will you please help me?’ And I was like, ‘Sure.’ So she did it all: She called and got the flyers and the posters. All I did was provide the box. The last week of it, we plan to have some of our HEROs standing in front to remind people to bring jeans. We’ve already collect-
ed maybe 20-30 pairs.” During the Food for Families food drive, the HERO’s collected boxes of macaroni and cheese. HEROs would dress as boxes of the familiar pantry item and stand in front of the school in the mornings to remind fellow students of the drive. They have also been working on a voter drive on campus for students who are 18. She had HEROs go pick up the voter registration cards and encourage those of voting age to complete the forms. The HEROs then mailed them to the county. Almost all the volunteering is done on the student’s own time. Occasionally the
Mexia High School student volunteers help with A.B. McBay Elementary Schoolʼs ʻatten-dance,ʼ which is put on as a treat for those with perfect attendance in the previous six-week period. Shown at rear, from left, are Bre Stoner, 17, Noemi Soto as Blackcat mascot Kit Kat, and Adriana Venegas, 17. Mexia News photos/Roxanne McKnight
Helena Westphal-Franklin, 17, left, and Rajana Brown, HERO Program volunteers at Mexia High School, help straighten a large rack of shoes at Caritas thrift store, just one of many community improvement activities the students perform throughout the city.
work takes place during the school day, such as when seniors mentor students at A.B. McBay Elementary, but even then, it is at a time that the HEROs do not miss out on their schoolwork. Sometimes the students are nervous about going the first time, but after that they feel more comfortable going back, Maki said. “Then it’s just a matter of getting others to go with them.” If a student volunteer HERO has behavior problems or failings grades, they are not ejected from the program as they
might with other school groups. “To me those are the ones that need this kind of organization more than the others,” Maki said.“It helps us be better people.” To those who think students should only study and not spend time volunteering, Maki is reminded of the school’s overall goals for its graduates. “I think about what we want our graduates of Mexia High School to be, and there are a bunch of things we want, but really there’s only one area that’s academic,” she said.
“We want them to be contributing citizens, good people. And we want them to be ready for college or the work force. Most high schools don’t really address the other parts of the human that we want our children to be when they graduate from high school. “We want them to be ready for the world, helping each other, and able to work in our society and things like that. That really only happens from experiences like this. “I’m proud of them,” she said. “They make me really proud.”
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Proud
Hometown
Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 11
Mexia High School Class of 2014 Making the Hometown Proud.
Accepted and Attending:
Our Vision
Shelbie Bishop - MCC Jonathan Shaw-TSTC Cylar Morton-MCC Jay Hicks - Unites States Marines
To create a premier district.
Our Mission Educating all students in an enriched environment where high expectations result in excellence.
Accepted but Undecided: Tasia Irvin-Abilene Christian University/ Sam Houston State University/Texas State Brady Walker-Mary Hardin Baylor/Baylor/ Houston Baptist University CHRISTI MARIE ACEVEDO BIANCA A. AGUERO PETRA ALBITER AMBER LYNN ALVARADO AKASHA VON'SHEA ANDERSON LACY KAY ANDERSON LOGAN WAYNE ARNOLD RICKY DERRELL ARRIOLA CALEB CHARLES ARTHUR ROBERTO NEFTALI BALBANTIN CHRISTOPHER RYAN BARBER CRISTIAN BARCO LILIANA BARCO MARTHA ICELA BARCO WILLIAM FORRESTER BARSTOW III SELENA YVONNE BINKLEY SHELBIE LYN BISHOP WILLIAM ALTON BOZEMAN III JOHN COLTON BRADY PEARL JASMINE BRICENO LACEY DIANE BRIGGS DEKORRIS DANNY BROWN RAJA'NA D'MONIQUE BROWN JERMAL DONTAYE CALDWELL ARTURO CAMARILLO JAVIER CANDANOZA JR. VICTORIA KAY CARROLL ABREONIA LATRICE CARTER-WILLIA DONTE DEMOND CARTER NANCY MARISOL CASTILLO CHRISTOPHER JOEL CHAVEZ ASHLEY NICOLE COLLINS JENNIFER CONTRERAS MONICA CONTRERAS SARAH LYDIA CONTRERAS CORTLAND TRE' CRAIG DANIEL DABNEY JOHNNY RAY DABNEY ANITA DANSBY JORDEN L. DARBY WILLIAM ALEXANDER DODSON JATAVIUS DUNN BRANDON ECHOLS TRACY WAYLAND EDWARDS REYNA MERCEDES ESCOBEDO MORGAN ASHLEIGH FLANNERY KYLE BLAIN FORBES DASHIA RENE FORGE JACOLBY FORGE ASHANTI S. GAMBLE CHAVOR TREVEON GAMBLE DONNELL LAMAR GAMBLE EDDIE LEE GARCIA
Our Student Motto I can and I will be successful because I am responsible, respectful, and ready to learn! MARISOL GARCIA BLOSSOM RENEE GLOVER EDGAR GOMEZ JOSE ALFREDO GOMEZ JR. SONIA GOMEZ ANGEL GONZALEZ JR. JESUS GONZALEZ AUSTIN MICHAEL GOSE TRAVION DIQUIN GRAY STEPHANIE PAULA GREEN CLINTON ALAN HALLMARK JOSHUA C. HALLMARK KATELINN ELIZABETH HANCOCK DEMARCUS MALIK HARPER TIFFANY NICOLE HAYS AGUSTIN HERNANDEZ MACIAS AURORA HERNANDEZ MARTINEZ RAMIRO HERNANDEZ JACOB ADAM HICKS ABIGAIL HIDROGO MAKEBA AVERY HOBBS SYNOTHERESSA HOBBS DEONTRE' DONTRELL HOLLIE DANNY HUCKABY TASIA IRVIN CHRISTOPHER IWABUCHI ARRON RAYMAND JACOBS UNIQUE ROSHUN JEFFERSON DAVEONTRE' MONTRELL JOHNSON OSTELL TRAE JOHNSON AKEILA JAVION JONES ISHIA D JONES JOLISA SHANAY JONES EDMUND ZANE KANTOR JORGE LARA CHRISTINA RENEE LLOYD MARLON JEROME LYONS DEONTRE' DAIVEYON MACK KENDRIC MACK AMBER A MACKEY APRIL MAE MACKEY CARLIE YVONNE MARTIN DAMION RASHAAD MATHEWS JONATHON BRYAN MCALLISTER MATTIE BETH MCCLOSKY MARQUIS DONTE' MCCULLEN LAVICTOR DERON MCKNIGHT JR. JAYLON ONEAL MEDLOCK ALEXIS ARIANA MOLINA RICARDO MOLINA DYLAN REID MONTGOMERY KEANDRE LAMARQUIST MONTGOMERY JOSE DOLORES MORA
CYLAR DAWN MORTON CHELSEA JANENE MULLEN LING SHAN NI CHELSEA LYNN O'CONNELL VICTOR HERNANDEZ OLIVAS JOSE E. ORTIZ LILIBETH ORTIZ BRAMESHIA NICOLE OWENS JEREMY-DANE B. OWENS SCOTT PARSON CLAUDIA VERONICA PAZ MARIA PENA JEREMIAH G. PEREZ JOSE PEREZ TYLER O'BRYAN PORTER ANTONIO PUCH ANA MARIA RANGEL CIERRA SHARDE' RATLIFF ZACHARY ISSAC REECE DEVAN RAMON REEVES JACOB REYES SARAH NICOLE RICHARDSON DAVID RIVERA NEMESIS O ROBLES CHRISTOPHER LYNN ROSS ZACHERY TAYLOR ROSS CARLOS SANCHEZ MARTHA SANCHEZ NARDA SERRATO JONATHAN JAMAR SHAW CYNTHIA CHYENNE SHERROD NOEMI SOTO BREANA DANIELLE STONER STEPHEN GRADY TAYLOR VICTOR CHARLES THOMAS JR. TAYLOR RYAN THREAT MASON MONTEL VAUGHN ADRIANA VENEGAS HOA DANG VUONG BRADY COLTON WALKER JEANELLE ANNETTE WASHINGTON KAYLON JAMES WATSON ZACHARY JAMES WATSON-LEAL ARIK KENTRALE WEATHERS MIA DE'LAYNA WELLS HELENA DESTINY WESTPHAL-FRANKLIN CHRISTOPHER JAMES WILLIAMS CLEOPHUS DEMOUN WILLIAMS-TULL ED JUNIOR WILLIAMS GRADY THOMAS WILLIAMS LAZHAY TRANISHIA WINN RODNEY NIKEL WOODSON O'SHAUN DRAIVON WRIGHT
Proud
Hometown Page 12 • Thursday, February 27, 2014
Limestone County Commissioners’ Court & Officials Precinct #1
Precinct #3
County Judge
John McCarver PO Box 353 Kosse, TX 76653 254-375-2570
Jerry Allen 200 W. State St, Ste 101 Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-2101
The Honorable Daniel Burkeen 200 W. State St, Ste 101 Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-3810
William "Pete" Kirven 200 W. State St, Ste 101 Groesbeck, TX 67735 254-729-2101
Robert "Bobby" Forrest PO Box 807 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2884
Roy DeFriend 200 W. State St., Ste 110 Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-3814
Precinct #2
Precinct #4
County District Attorney
County Sheriff
Dennis Wilson 912 N. Tyus St. Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-3278 dwilson@ co.limestone.tx.us
Proud
Hometown
Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 13
Things looking up for Limestone County, even in ‘tough’ year By Roxanne McKnight
T
hough the current national economic problems affect Limestone County, several areas are moving in a positive direction for the entity. Signs of progress are evident in the recent move of the Appraisal Board to a new building and in the current recabling of the Courthouse. In the next few months to a year, there will be an expansion of the county airport and a new restaurant built on its grounds. Also, the county is in the
process of accessing nearly half a million dollars in state funds for road projects, and county commissioners are optimistic about finding inmates for the Limestone County Detention Center, the county-owned private prison. County Judge Daniel Burkeen recently summarized the many changes in the county and is bullish on its condition. “I’m excited about the county as a whole; I think we’ve got a good future,” he said. “This has been one of our toughest years, but even with our toughest year, we’ve
Repairs to these balustrades and other parts of the Limestone County Courthouse are deemed urgent by the Commissioner’s Court. Contributed photo done OK.” The county has taken some hits in the past year, including losing its source of inmates for the prison. Also, NRG Energy Power Plant, one of its largest employers, is suing the county to contest its valuation, which could significantly cut the tax income to the county. “Those kind of things happen; that will be resolved,” Burkeen said. “They are still a good citizen of the county, a good employer. An important employer and an important taxpayer. And that will continue at some level, and we hope they continue to grow out there.” Regarding currently completed projects, Burkeen was full
of praise for the Appraisal Board’s recent move. “The Appraisal Board has moved into their incredible, new facility, which they needed; they were kind of cramped down there (in the Courthouse basement)” he said. “They were paying us rent, but it helps us: We lose the rent but we gain the space that we really needed. You go to most counties around here, and they’ve got annex buildings and all to try to expand into. We haven’t had to do that because we’ve got a large courthouse, and that space will give us some document storage space, and some Continued on next page
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Hometown Page 14 • Thursday, February 27, 2014 Continued from previous page
storage space, and some space to move the county commissioners into so the County Attorney can expand. We’re still looking at how to divide it up.” Another recent improvement at the Courthouse has been the installation of new cabling and telephones, which the county had put off doing for several years because of economic restraints. “We had just reached the point that technologically it needed to be done,” Burkeen said of the new cabling. “Big changes like that are a pain, but once we get there, it will be good, and all these old wires – there are old wires running everywhere, and half of them don’t do anything anymore.” The county had also put off other needed Courthouse repairs, but those, too, must be addressed soon. Maintenance Supervisor Sam Callis is working on applying for a grant from the Texas Historical Commission to fund half the cost. “The most urgent project is up on the third floor,” Burkeen said. “Some of those concrete ornamental railings have broken and are causing leaks and so must be repaired. The steps on the north and south entrances need to be redone. They floor is coming up in the Courthouse. Those are our two urgent projects. It’s just been a time thing. Over time water gets in there, and the ice and cold. We have to get a specialist that can reproduce those consistent with the Historical Commission’s standards. It’s not tremendously expensive as far as these things go, he said, but the State Historical Commission still has money in its budget and may help with the expense. He estimated that the total cost would be less than $100,000, which means the county would have to pay less than $50,000. In another improvement for the county, this one to the roads, the court is doing everything it needs to access the $438,000 money the state has allocated to
Limestone County to reimburse it for damages to roads by oversized trucks, mostly associated with the oil and gas industry. Burkeen said the county’s share of the fund will almost assuredly increase because several counties have opted out of the grant, meaning the $225 million the state has set aside for this pur-
long-term source of inmates at the county-owned Limestone County Detention Center. Burkeen said he hopes to hear in February whether the county has won the long-term contract for federal inmates called CAR-XV. “The federal government doesn’t have any specific deadlines, but as we get farther along,
… without that (state) money, we’d have to either not fix the roads as well or tax the local taxpayer. Hopefully it will do both, fix the roads a little better and ease up on taxes.” Regarding improvements at Limestone County Airport, though many residents believe the airport has nothing to do with them,
A restaurant at the Limestone County Airport, where these men tend to a plane, could begin construction soon, along with expansion to the airport itself. Mexia News photo/Roxanne McKnight pose will be divided among a smaller number of counties. “It’s kind of frustrating because we used to have a lot of gas activity here in the past, which really messed up our roads,” he said. “We were screaming about it, and they wouldn’t do anything. Now they’re doing something, but we don’t have so much activity now. It’s moved to other places, so we kind of get shorted on the funding. It’s still a good source of funding. It will be about half a million dollars probably. “That’s going to be half a million dollars we won’t have to spend out of local taxpayer money
Burkeen sees the economic impact the airport has on business, which in turn affects the local economy. “The airport is expanding, and that goes hand-in-hand with the growth in Mexia, businesses and so forth; gas companies use it, different companies use it,” he said. KSA Engineering is about to announce the winner of the bids for doing the work. KSA anticipates starting construction in March, and the work will probably take 18 months. The new restaurant that is to be built at the airport is also expected to begin soon. One area of continual focus for the commissioners court right now is getting a new, hopefully
it’s supposed to kick in next year, and there is going to be an eight to nine-month window for construction,” Burkeen said. “So fairly soon they’ve got to start moving along on that progress. April 2015 is the earliest it will start, but there will be a ramp-up period preceding that.” Even after being chose, there is a period of negotiation involving the Bureau of Prisons, the prison operating company and the county. “It would be a 10-year deal and it would be for a 2,000-bed facility, so they (MTC) would add a thousand beds, which means more jobs, not necessarily a lot more Continued on next page
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Proud
Hometown
Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 15
Kiddie basketball leads to teens’ success By Stephen R. Farris
I
n high school sports there’s nothing more gratifying than winning a state championship and last basketball season was no exception for the Mexia Ladycats after winning the Class 3A crown in 2013. Senior members Amy and Ashley Johnson, Tiara Ray, Gabrielle Greer, Brechelle Beachum, Bre Stoner, Kendall Gipson and Mariyah Wiley, along with their junior, sophomore and lone freshman teammates made school history by being the first girls’ team to accomplish that feat. But it wasn’t the first time this cast tasted such success. This group of young ladies harnessed their skills early on in the Little Dribblers program here in Mexia when they began playing together at the Continued on next page
Continued from previous page
Little Dribblers Commissioner Sherman Graves recalls some of the teams he has coached over the years, including the Mexia boys and girls first National Championship teams back in 1989. Graves son and daughter, who each played on the championship teams in 1989, both volunteer their time for the Mexia Little Dribblers program. Mexia News photo/Stephen R. Farris
cash coming to the county but a lot more jobs, a lot more income – for the county as a whole, not county government. They’re really good jobs with really good benefits, so it’s a really good thing for the county. “The operator we’ve got working on it for MTC – that’s their specialty, doing these BOP contracts. They do a lot of them; they know how to do them. I think we’re in good shape to get that. If we get that, then we’ll have some stability for 10 years with a good operator that’s used to doing these contracts. As opposed to our last operator that just didn’t work out.” Though Burkeen is very optimistic about getting the contract for CAR-XV, he is ready with Plan B if the county does not win the bid. “The prison operated for years without a Bureau of Prisons contract,” he pointed out. “We held federal inmates and other inmates, and did very well. The problem has been those numbers have been down. That’s just a market thing; those numbers are coming back up. We have contracts with a number of counties; we have contacts with the feds and with ICE
(Immigration and Customs Enforcement). So there are a lot of other opportunities.” Burkeen is also optimistic about the county economy overall despite the current tight economy. “A large part of our tax base in Limestone County is natural gas, and the prices are down, so that hurts us,” he said. “But it will come back; people need energy. There’s a good future there. Gas prices come back, which they’re going to. Inmate populations come back up, which sadly they’re going to. We’re in a good position to benefit from that if we get something done on immigration reform. That will help us as far as we’ve got a facility to take advantage of that, which will provide jobs and income, money coming into the county. “We’ve got a lot of other good things going on in the county. Look at Mexia. Every time I go out to Walmart, there are new businesses being built out there. Mexia is just a growing retail sector, and the airport ties into that because a lot of those businesses, if they’re chain stores, they use the airport; they fly in and out. The restaurant I’m really excited about because I think it will be good for the airport and good for the area. “The thing I’m most proud of
is that this is the roughest year as far as far as appraisals being down, the power plant being in dispute and the prison being up in the air – and we’re still able to make it without really cutting services. We haven’t started laying people off; we haven’t cut services to the citizens as far as taking care of the roads. I’m proud we’ve been able
to do that by being very frugal, being careful. We don’t want to do that long-term, but we think things will turn around long-term. We still have growth in the economy in this area. We still have good resources with the natural gas, coal, the power plant. “So we think there’s a bright future there.
We are a fourth generation family, proud to have been conducting business since 1893 and would like to thank all our customers and the community for the years of support. Dr. Wesley E. Pittman
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Proud
Hometown Page 16 • Thursday, February 27, 2014 From previous page
age of four and by 2007, they had become good enough to win the programs prestigious National Championship in the 11-12 Division. This is just one of
the recent success stories from the nearly 30-year program that began in Mexia back in the early ‘80s. Every Saturday between early January and mid-March at the old junior high school gymnasium, kids from
age 4 up to 14 can be seen running up and down the court, shooting baskets, playing defense, having fun and maybe hoping to someday play on the same high school court as those before them. In a way, you might say this is the road to state basketball championships here in Mexia, which includes two from the boy’s side (1999 and 2001) and the 2013 crown by the girls last year. “It has a lot of impact on the school program,” said Sherman Graves, a former Little Dribblers coach who now serves as one of the league’s commissioners. “We try to start the kids early here, teaching them the fundamentals before they go on
to play at the school level.” Graves coached his son, Jeffrey Smith – who currently serves on the Little Dribblers board as vice president – in 1989 on the team that brought the first National Championship (13-14 Division) to the Mexia program. The girls’ team, in which his daughter Kim played that same season, also won the National Championship in the 13-14 Division and was also coached by Graves. Kim recalls the days when the only place they really had to play basketball was in the yard at home. That all changed when the program was set into motion. She ended up playing three years in See Dribblers, next page
Baseball, softball, football leagues also Mexia favorites By Stephen R. Farris
H
igh school and college baseball and softball are currently underway for both Mexia High School and Navarro College. That means that it won’t be too long before youth baseball and softball starts up as well. Mexia Youth Baseball and Softball participates in one of the oldest associations in Texas, called Texas Teenage Baseball and Softball Association, also known as TTAB (boys baseball) and TTAS (girls softball). Divisions vary, but the Mexia association offers Boys 6U T-Ball, Boys 8U, 10U and 12U leagues and on the softball side, Girls 6U T-Ball, 8U Coach Pitch, Machine Pitch, 10U, 12U and 15 U leagues, with a cost of $50 per player. League Director Brian Hullum is in his See Leagues, next page
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Hometown
Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 17
From previous page
Dribblers
the league and went on to play in junior high, high school and a short time at the college level. “I feel like the younger you get started playing, … by the time you get in school you have developed those skills to play at a competitive level.” Since those early years (including 1989), four more teams have been successful in the championships. The Boys 11-12 Division brought home the crown in 2002 and in 2006, the Boys 9-10 and Boys 13-14 Divisions each won a National Championship, plus the girls team mentioned earlier in the article. Some of the members from the 2006 Boys 9-10 National Championship team (Shawn Hobbs, Curk Harris and Kaylon Watson) are currently playing for the Mexia Blackcats team that won district and made the playoffs this season. And like them, there will be new kids working their way up now and new coaches there to teach the fundamentals. Some of the faces may be familiar, former players who now have kids of their own playing in the league. As for Kim and her dad, they remain a part of the program. “Now we’re up here donating our time back,” Kim says. “As long as we have kids and he has grandkids playing, we’ll be here helping out … even after our kids are done.” While Little Dribblers has been around for a while, there is one other program that is gaining a lot of popularity in Mexia and that’s the First Baptist Church’s Small Fry Basketball League. The program has been in existence for the past 14-years and is under the guidance of Minister of Recreation, Senior Adults and Associate Pastor, Jack Ballard. Small Fry offers leagues for 4-5 age groups, 6-7 age groups, 8-9 age groups and 10, 11, and 12 age groups. Games are played on Monday and Tuesday nights, beginning around the first week of Feb. and lasting through the first week of March. “It is based on players,” said Ballard. “It is a player’s league.” Games consist of six-minute periods and every child plays a minimum of 18 minutes. With teams averaging seven to eight players, playing times increase so kids get the opportunity to be in the game longer. “The emphasis is not on winning or losing,” Ballard said. “It’s how the game is played and we don’t keep league standings.” The cost is $30 and currently there are 158 kids participating in the program. Small Fry also offers an Angel League for From previous page
Leagues
seventh year over the league, which roughly has 300 participants each season. Hullum feels the youth league helps in the development of a good, successful high school baseball and softball program as fundamentals and skills are learned at an early age. “We have some good coaches that work well in teaching our kids the game,” he said. Registration is currently underway and parents can go to the park March 5, 6, and 7 to register their child from 5:30 to 8 p.m. (Wednesday through Friday) and Saturday, March 8 from 8 a.m. to noon. The success of most high school athletic teams relies on established youth sports programs. In football, kids that normally play together through their younger years are more successful as a team when they reach junior high and high school. Programs such as Pee Wee Football and Heart of Texas Football have a relationship towards the success of area football programs, both present and in the past. Mexia youth compete in the Mexia Youth Pee Wee/YMCA Football League based out of Waco. Up until about three years ago, according to league director Curtis Harris,
most all of the kids playing football participated in the Pee Wee Football league Mexia. Mexia teams would split time playing games at Black Cat Field and in Waco, with competition between 3, 4 and 5A towns. “I think it helped the high school program that way,” Harris said. “Mexia teams have won Super Bowls in the past and five years later end up playing for district championships. Kids need to be playing together and not split up.” Surrounding towns such as Groesbeck, Fairfield and Teague participate in other football programs, which has attracted quite a few
Kasey’s Creations’ Brooke Busby heaves the ball back to shoot a free throw during warm-ups before the team’s game on Feb. 15. Looking on are teammates Iyana Busby, Alexis Forge, Makala Ray and assistant coach Tabitha Butcher. Mexia News photo/Stephen R. Farris special needs children and older and younger adults. Trophies are awarded at the end of the season to each participant. “We realize it minimizes and controls competition,” he said. “But we also know that it allows a larger segment of the community’s kids to play basketball that never will play.” The Christian-based league also promotes Bible study and devotionals are held after each practice. “The enthusiasm and our numbers have just about doubled,” said Ballard. The program has been such a success that former players, like some of those in Little Dribblers, are returning to coach and give back of the kids from the Mexia League. That attraction has led to the decline in the number of teams playing in the Mexia program. Harris states that he is not against parents letting their kids play in other programs, but feels – as a Mexia alumni – that the high school football program would benefit more in the future if the kids stayed here and play together through the years. Sign-ups for Pee Wee Football begin in June and continue into July. More information will be available in the next couple of months. With the success of the 7-on-7 Blackcats team last summer and the improvements the
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football team made on the field back in the fall, Mexia Head Coach Lamonte Chambers says he would like to see a flag football league start up for the older kids this summer and is currently working to get someone to spearhead the program. With both a flag football league and the Pee Wee football league, the success of the high school program would flourish.
to the kids. “The Lord has really blessed us,” Ballard said.
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Proud
Hometown Page 18 • Thursday, February 27, 2014
Navarro College expansion wrapping up By Mike Eddleman
T
he crowded halls on the Navarro College South campus will soon be a little less congested – not because of a break in classes but because the administrative expansion is nearly complete. Students, faculty and administrators have long been forced to balance the classroom, study, social and administrative needs of a busy campus all in one building where every inch of real estate is spoken for. Navarro College officials recognized that need to expand the South Campus in Mexia – which serves roughly 1,100 students per semester – and broke ground last June on a new 8,800square foot administration building. On March 20, at 4 p.m., the community is invited to an open house to come tour the new facility and see what changes and improvements have come to the campus. “Part of our mission is to serve the community and we believe this expansion accomplishes a few major objectives for our district,” said District President Barbara Kavalier. “We felt it was very important to have adequate study space for our students and this is a beautiful space for them to hang out and study.” The new building provides a common area for studying, eating and gathering, as well as a kitchen with microwaves a refrigerator, sink and vending items. “What I like is that it is an open, inviting atmosphere,” said new Campus Dean Joel Michaelis. “The idea – especially on a commuter campus – is to let people feel comfortable here.” In addition to the common area will be new administrative offices, a bookstore, expanded new library and additional classrooms. “The more space we can add the more classrooms we can offer and the more
students we can serve,” Kavalier said. “This also strengthens our administrative functions, allowing students to more easily meet with counselors, get financial aid assistance and use all the support systems.” The first time Michaelis saw the new building, he was convinced the space creates an exciting array of growth opportunities. “What I was thinking was what a wonderful opportunity for this campus to grow,” he said. “I see a lot of potential here, and they have obviously done a good job here over the years, but I think there is a lot of potential growth in some of our programs as time goes on.” The cramped quarters at times made functioning as well as administrators would like difficult in Mexia, but the additional room is expected to make a world of difference. “It is very beneficial to students to have the space to move around,” said former Campus Dean Linda Davis. “If you feel comfortable where you are and you are able to access the book you need to do your research, of course it is going to make the learning environment much better.” Davis, who retired in January, has
watched staff and students work around crowded conditions for a long time. “We had so many students in this very small building and if you walk in here during lunchtime any day of the week we don’t really have a dining facility or place for students to gather,” she said. “Once they are in between classes and eating their lunches they are really packed up.” For Davis, one of the most exciting additions is the large new library. “Our library now is very small,” Davis said. “If students need to do research or something like that now then they don’t have the same access a larger library would provide.” Once the new building is open, administrative space in the
additional buildings on the south side, parallel to the original building. For Davis, it is all about increasing services and enhancing the college experience for students in the three-county service area of Freestone, Limestone and Leon counties. “I think this is huge,” she said. “I think any of the smaller surrounding areas would love to have the opportunity to have a college campus in their community. A lot of these kids can’t drive long distances. They work or they have family commitments that keep them
dents leave us and they want to go on and get a bach-
serves is something Navarro officials say is critical. The Mexia campus demonstrates our commitment to the good citizens of Mexia,” Kavalier said. Michaelis hopes to continue building on that relationship.
original building can be converted to more classrooms. The Mexia Economic Development Corporation provided financial assistance by funding the new parking lot on the north side of the new building. In addition to increased parking, this will make it easier in the future to complete plans to add
from being able to travel long distance to go to school.” Giving students a better feel for the complete college experience will help prepare them to continue their studies at a four-year institution if they choose – something that was difficult to do with limited space in Mexia. “Once the stu-
elor’s degree and they want to attend a larger university, you haven’t really given them a bird’s eye view of the kinds of things a college is really going to provide for them,” Davis said. “Now we can do more of that.” The connection between a community college campus and the community it
“Obviously the college and community have established a good partnership over the years to do this,” he said. “When you talk about a branch campus, I think a partnership with the community is absolutely crucial, in part because if we are doing it right we are being responsive to our community.”
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Proud
Hometown
Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 19
New Dean excited by opportunities By Mike Eddleman
T
o learn how passionate Joel Michaelis is about community colleges and the opportunity they provide, just ask, but be prepared for the excitement he can’t help but share. Michaelis was named Dean of Navarro College South in January, following the retirement of Linda Davis. He brings more than 20 years of experience in community college administration and while he sees great things going on in Mexia, he is thrilled to have a chance to help it grow. “When I had the opportunity to meet with the committee here, it was obvious they care about this place,” he said. “It is good for me because I have been over large numbers of employees and faculty before and what I like about this job is – while I am obviously taking
direction from my bosses – I have autonomy to be entrepreneurial and do what I can and develop programs, marketing and things like that to try and grow this campus.” That growth is envisioned in the existing class offerings, program offerings in Mexia and Fairfield, dual credit opportunities in the 11 school districts served and in the partnerships with the Mexia State Supported Living Center. “We can grow all of those, and it excites me,” he said. “That is what gets me out of bed on a Monday and ready to work. That is what does it for me.” Michaelis, who began his career as a sixth-grade math teacher, has an Ph.D. in Educational Administration from Baylor and a Masters in Education from the University of texas. His undergraduate degree is from
The centerpiece of the common area in the new Navarro College building in Mexia is a stone fireplace.The room will include areas to use and charge laptops as well as study and eat.
A kitchen area will allow students to prepare lunches or get snacks and drinks while on campus. Mexia News photos/Mike Eddleman Texas A&M. He served more than four years as Vice President of Instruction at Hill College in Hillsboro before he took a break from the community college world and co-founded Upgrade Educational Services in Waco, providing tutoring and test preparation services. He found he missed the college opportunities. “I was missing working in colleges and started looking around,” he said. “I thought this would provide me an opportunity to get back into it and be able to share my experience and do what I can to help Navarro College.” The opportunities provided to students is what Michaelis gets most excited about when it comes to community colleges and being able to be a part of that brings great personal satisfaction. “I believe 100 percent in the mission of community colleges,” he said. “To me, community colleges are part of what’s best about American society. Community colleges are an American invention. There are very few places you can
go and at the age of 40, say ‘I want to do it different,’ and find a place – not just a few hundred miles from you, chances are within 20 miles of you – that is relatively inexpensive, that will take you where you are and get you trained up.” In meeting students, hearing their stories and realizing what they go through to get an education, Michaelis can’t help but be inspired. “It takes everything they can to get up the will to walk on to that campus for the first time,” he said of the non-traditional students who make up the bulk of Navarro College enrollees. “I have so much respect for people who go to college later when they’ve got a full-time job, and a spouse and kids, and they’re squeezing in a couple of evening classes a semester. When you do that it takes so much time.” It is that inspiration that has made him so dedicated to enhancing that experience in his different positions over more than 20 years in community college work.
Proud
Hometown Page 20 • Thursday, February 27, 2014
County blanketed in history
T
o give an idea of the deep and varied history all around us,l the following listings include some of the many historical markers, medalliosn or historical cemeteries in Limestone County. These were taken from the Texas Historical Commission’s records, and include the name of the site, its address, the year the marker was issued and in most cases, a description of the marker’s contents.
Site of Oletha Common School, FM 937, CR 746, Groesbeck, SE at intersection of FM 937 and CR 746. (2003) Settlers at the turn of the 20th century educated their children in small schools within walking distance of their homes. Limestone County schools in this area were Union, established in 1895; Independence, 1897; Mount Joy, 1911; and Barnett Prairie and Center Point, both part of the Center Point Common School District, 1911. As local populations grew, rural school districts began to combine resources. In 1934, Independence and Center Point consolidated to form Oletha Common School District No. 45. Mount Joy joined them later that year and Union consolidated with them the following year. Dr. R.W. and Cora Jones donated a site at this location for the construction of a five-room schoolhouse. The school, which also housed an auditorium, served as a gathering place for community activities, fund raisers and meetings before burning in 1936. At that time, the district built a second school with five classrooms, a gymnasium, stage, office and library. Community members later supplied cafeteria lunches and trucks were converted into school buses. The
blue and gold Oletha Owls participated in district sports and activities. The school provided education for grades one through eleven. In 1948, the upper grades transferred to Thornton High School, and the Oletha School began offering classes for fewer grades until 1962, when all of the Oletha district consolidated with Groesbeck Independent School District. The building was slowly dismantled, but memories remain of the former school and community center. Many former students value their Oletha School education and today are contributors to their community. Kirk, FM 339, 6 miles south of Prairie Hill, FM 339, 6 miles south of Prairie Hill. (1997) Settlement began in this area in the 1870s1880s. A community here, originally called Elm Grove, became known as Kirk when a post office established in 1887 was named for local merchant Jepitha N. Kirk. The first postmaster was William Hume McKnight. In 1884 G. W. and M. J. Swafford donated land for a school and cemetery. William M. and Annie J. Jacobs sold adjoining land in 1887 for the graveyard, a school, and for churches in Kirk. At its peak, Kirk was a
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thriving community of several hundred people and included homes, businesses, churches, and a post office. It also contained cotton gins, fraternal organizations and a telephone exchange. A two-story school containing six classrooms was built in 1911 at this site. In 1927 the community, led by school board president W.C. Curry and school principals Vernon Evans and J. B. Brown, Jr., built a large gymnasium/community hall (known locally as the Community House) just north of the school. Kirk’s decline began with the great depression of the 1930s. In 1942 the last class graduated from Kirk High School, and the Kirk School consolidated with schools in Mart in 1952. Only a few homes and the cemetery remain in the area. Limestone County Courthouse, 200 W. State St., Groesbeck. (1998) Limestone County was established in 1846. Springfield served as the first county seat, but geographic boundary changes and the burning of the Springfield Courthouse led to the designation of Groesbeck as the county seat in December 1873. Three more official courthouses served the county before the early 1920s. The county employed the midwest engineering company of Amarillo to draw up plans for a new structure in 1923. The William Rice Construction Company, also of Amarillo, received a contract for $300,000 to erect this structure. Rice had been the contractor for both the Lipscomb and Lynn County courthouses. A fine example of a classi-
Mexia Oil Boom marker, Hwy. 14 at southern city limits cal revival building with beaux arts influences, the 1924 Limestone County Courthouse is a variation on the most common themes of early 20th century courthouses. Then-modern construction methods, such as reinforced concrete structural systems covered in brick and terra
cotta, were employed. The elevations — classical columns flanking the windows, upper floors adorned with balustrades and elaborate cornucopia moldings — indicate that the edifice is intended to be viewed from all sides. The Limestone County Courthouse functions as
the heart of Limestone County and it continues to be used for daily county governmental business. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark Munger Community, 4.5 miles N. of Coolidge on Hwy. Continued on next page
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Proud
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Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 21
Continued from previous page
neer settlers and their descendants, and veterans of conflicts ranging from the Civil War to Vietnam. 171, 27” x 42” with post. (2013) Tehuacana, on Campus of Westminster College, Westminster Rd., Town named for Gen. Jose Antonio Mexia, Mexia, in temporary storage, Tehuacana. (1967) city of Mexia public works warehouse. (1967) Located at one of highest points (altitude 661 ft.) between Dallas and Military officer and promoter of Texas colonization. Served as secretary of Houston. First noted in history by Philip Nolan’s trading expedition, 1797. Home Mexican legation to United States, 1829-1831. Led victorious Mexia Expedition in early days of Tehuacana Indians, a Wichita tribe, who engaged in farming to expel centralists in Matamoros, 1832. Mexican senator, 1833-1834; he first and peaceful pursuits until they were destroyed in early 1830s by Cherokees. supported president Santa Anna, but fought him when he became a dictator. Town is on Mexican land grant obtained 1835 by John Fled to Texas, 1834. Attacked Tampico in 1835. Took Boyd, member First Congress Republic of Texas. In 1847 Tampico, Jan. 1839, but was shot on order of Santa Boyd became first postmaster, and in 1849 nominated Anna after defeat near Puebla May 3. Son and daughter Tehuacana for capital of State of Texas. However, Austin settled on family land, Limestone County, about 1870. won in election held in 1850. Tehuacana Academy, a They donated site for town of Mexia in 1871. Presbyterian school locally organized and supported, Old Sandy Creek Cemetery, near Echols, approx 8 operated ten years. It was organized and supported, miles west of Mexia on CR 191, near intersection of FM operated ten years. It was closed during Civil War, but 2310 and CR 180. (2004) furnished incentive (with help of Boyd) for founding in Following Emancipation in 1865, many former 1869 of Trinity University. Boyd’s gift of 1,520 acres of Limestone County slaves established their own homes. land for college use includes present campus, where Those settling in this area included Sawney Henry and Trinity (now in San Antonio) operated until 1902. School Davey Medlock, founders of Sandy M.E. Church and plant was deeded to Methodist Protestant Church, which Sandy community. This site served as the early burial relocated here Westminster College, one of first junior ground for the agricultural settlement, also known as colleges (1916) in Texas. The Congregational Methodist Oak Grove. By 1900, the Sandy Creek Graveyard, Church Church bought the property in 1953 and now operates and School Land Association maintained the site. Most Westminster College and Bible Institute on the historic of the graves here are those of former slaves, with the campus. last known burial made in 1943. By that time, residents Miss Rogers’ Music Room, 609 N. Bonham St., had established a newer burial ground. Mexia. (1965) Henry-Martin-Dorsett House, Mexia, (1962) Built opposite public school, for Laura T. Rogers, who Fort Parker Memorial Park, off FM 1245, on Park (1880-1920) taught piano and choral music from 7 a.m. Road 35, north of Groesbeck. to 7 p.m., 6 days a week, 8 months in year. Had four Old Springfield Cemetery, off Hwy. 14, south of pianos used all day; eight pupils often played in union. Mexia in Fort Parker Historical Park. (1969) Auditorium, with overflow seating in yard, staged Established as a 10-acre community burial ground in recitals and dramas. A church organist-choir director 35 town plat dedicated Jan. 6, 1838, by Moses Herrin. years, Miss Rogers kindled cultural interests in pupils of Earliest graves probably never had stone markers two generations. because of primitive frontier living conditions. It is Origin of the Texas State Teachers Association, 209 recorded that 12 families were driven out of Springfield St., Mexia. (1980) Carthage Old Springfield, Hwy. 14 south of Fort Parker late in 1838 by Indian hostilities; the town’s growth was The first statewide teacher association in Texas had its halted materially until 1846. Oldest tombstone is for an infant who died Oct. 3, beginnings in two regional teachers organizations. The North Texas Education 1849. Another early marker is for a native of New York State “Slain in 1854 vioAssociation was begun in Dallas in 1877. Teachers in central Texas met in Austin lence for his gold”. This burial ground was open to use by surrounding areas, in 1879, formed the Austin Teachers Association, and made plans to meet the and many strangers found a final resting place here alongside veterans of the next year with the north Texas group to create a statewide organization. At a Texas War for Independence, the Mexican War and other conflicts. Since three-day meeting beginning June 29, 1880, about 40 Texas educators met at Springfield was county seat of Limestone County (1846-1878), home of this site (former Cumberland Presbyterian Church) and organized the Texas Springfield College (closed in the 1860’s) and a center for church and business State Teachers Association. The Rev. Dr. J. R. Malone was elected president and affairs, it attracted persons of distinction. Some of them were buried here. Governor O. M. Roberts served as guest speaker. The new organization took as Although the town lost its means of growth after it was bypassed by Houston & its purpose the advancement of public education. One resolution passed at the Texas Central Railroad in 1870 and then suffered a devastating fire in 1873, first meeting supported the organization of the University of Texas, which at families of old residents often have returned to bury their dead in their estabthe mandate of the Legislature actually opened for classes in 1883. All profeslished lots, beside pioneer forefathers. sional teachers in the state were invited to join and by 1979 the membership William Rees, builder of Old Trinity University structure, Westminster Road, had grown to over 100,000. TSTA has helped improve the the quality of educaon campus of Westminster College, Tehuacana. (1967) Born in Castletown, Marshfield Parish, England, of Welsh parents. In youth Continued on page 24 spent several years as an apprentice stonemason in Liverpool, England. Came to America in 1870, and to Tehuacana in 1872. In 1873 William Rees was given the contract for the construction of the wings of this stone building. At that time, Trinity University (under the auspices of the Presbyterian Church) was short of funds. Because he had a love for the cause of higher education and a love for Trinity, Rees, a skilled craftsman, did much of the stonecutting— a chore usually left to laborers. Always interested in education, he was a member of the local board of education and in his turn its president. He was a staunch supporter of Trinity University, and later of Westminster college. Dr. Beeson, first president of Trinity, performed the ceremony when on Jan. 3, 1875, Rees married Georgia Ann Sanders. They had six children. The life of Rees proved the truth of the proverb: “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches.” He was honest and humble, and had a keen appreciation for the finer things of life. He is buried in the Tehuacana Cemetery. Shiloh Baptist Church, 5 miles south of Mexia on FM 39 at CR 439. (2001) On October 21, 1881, 15 residents of several neighboring communities in this part of Limestone County met to organize a Baptist church. The Rev. G. L. Jennings served as first pastor. For 14 years, the congregation met for worship in the Shiloh schoolhouse and participated in a Union Sunday School with the local Methodist church. In January 1896, the members of Shiloh Baptist Church worshiped for the first time in their own sanctuary. The congregation completed a new building in 1927 to replace the original. For more than 100 years, Shiloh Baptist Church has shared in the religious and cultural heritage of this rural area. Old Springfield, on Hwy. 14, 500 ft. south of Fort Parker State Park entrance on west side of road. (1966) Named for the large spring on townsite donated Jan. 6, 1838, by Moses Herrin, who gave 4 lots to any person agreeing to settle in the town. 12 families later in 1838 were forced out by Indian hostility. Post office was established in 1846. When Limestone County was created April 11, 1846, Springfield – its only town of any size – became county seat. First courthouse was built 1848 near Navasota River; new 2-story brick courthouse in 1856 on the hill. Home of Springfield District of Methodist Church from which stemmed the Northwest Texas Conference. Also had active Baptist and Disciples of Christ churches. Springfield College was established, but closed during the Civil War. The Navasota Stock Raisers Association was organized here. When Houston & Texas Central Railroad was built some miles to the East in 1870, population dwindled. In 1873 there were 2 great fires in the town— one burning the courthouse. Surviving buildings were moved away. Groesbeck became the county seat. The old cemetery and Springfield Lake, both in Fort Parker State Park, retain the historic name of the once important town. Lake Springfield provides recreation, irrigation and municipal water. Prairie Hill Cemetery, 1 mile north of Prairie Hill on FM 339. (1994) Prairie Hill Baptist Church members built a sanctuary here in 1890 on 3 acres donated by J. R. and Medora Leathers. A portion of the acreage near the sanctuary was set aside in 1894 to established this community cemetery. The first recorded burial was that of Eula Jane Howard on June 29, 1894. The Prairie Hill Cemetery Association, established in 1958 and chartered in 1975, maintains the cemetery which has been enlarged over the years. Interred here are area pio-
We are proud to call Mexia our hometown.
1618W.Hwy84•Mexia•254-562-0233
THE COLDEST WINTERS
Proud
Hometown
2014 Honor Roll of Businesses Page 22 • Thursday, February 27, 2014
To start a business is to take a leap of faith then follow it up with the dedication to work long hard hours to make it a success. The companies listed on the pages of this special edition have not only started a business, they have survived year after year to serve the residents of their communities. That is quite an accomplishment in any day and age. We are proud to take this opportunity to salute each and every one of them for their achievements during the past year and wish them many more years of success. 137 YEARS
Porter Funeral Home 562-2887
208 N. Canton, Mexia 765-3460
605 N. Main, Wortham
104 YEARS
BlairStubbs, Inc.
Complete Funeral Services
McKinney At Glendale Mexia
254/562-2131 Thornton
254/385-6615
66 YEARS Mexia Chiropractic Clinic, Inc. Stanley Sewell, D.C. 722 E. Commerce Mexia 254/562-2112
54 YEARS
Staff of The
132 YEARS
You Have Our Word
301 E. Commerce Mexia 254-562-3821
90 YEARS
415 Main Teague
254/739-2574 65 YEARS
Premier Properties
and
Womack Insurance Service
562-2884
205 E. Milam Mexia www.remaxmexia.com
51 YEARS
BEENE MOTOR SALES “Where More People Buy & Save”
562-2846
1100 E. Milam Mexia
600 S. Bonham Mexia
562-5332
44 YEARS Ingram Florist Ruby Lee’s Cafe &Gifts 45 YEARS
Owner: Pamela Johnson
Flowers & Gifts For Every Occasion
• Plate Lunches • • Short Orders • Sandwiches • Breakfast
518 S. McKinney Mexia 562-3524
209 N. Hwy 14, Mexia
Hrs: Tues-Fri 6:30am-2pm Sat 7am-1pm
562-9909
122 YEARS
122 YEARS
Groesbeck, Texas
Mexia, TX 76667
Groesbeck Farmer’s The Journal State Bank Jewett Messenger 115 N. Ellis 604 W. Milam
“We guarantee to interest if not to please.”
104 N. Main Jewett, Texas
78 YEARS
WITHROW Teague FURNITURE Insurance
WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE
“Your Area Truck Leader”
129 YEARS
Mexia News
Susan Rawls Owner/Agent Kristi Harris
• Home • Auto 318 Main 254/739-2652 Teague
60 YEARS
NABORS CLEANERS 401 E. Commerce
Mexia
562-3341 50 YEARS
Brown Oil and Gas
901 S. Belknap Mexia
562-2818
42 YEARS
729-5103 76 YEARS
205 N. McKinney Mexia 254/562-3843 800-64FLATT
60 YEARS
931 S. Hwy 171 Main Branch:
In Front of Walmart
254/562-9296 East Branch:
49 YEARS
A trusted name for over 70 years
Beltone Hearing Center
208 E. Rusk, Mexia (254)562-7771
41 YEARS
AVERY’S SNACK ORCHARD SHACK 562-5663 Hwy 84 E
6 miles East of Mexia
Owners: Joe & Nancy Barrow Debit & Credit Cards Approved
25 4-562-9494
70 YEARS
Bill McCullough Owner/Manager
1442 N. Hwy 14 Mexia
254/562-3825
57 YEARS Wrights BBQ
123 N. MLK Mexia (254)562-9042
Tues. - Sat. 10AM - 6PM Owner: Laquita Brewer Catering Needs Ask for James Wright, Jr.
46 YEARS Jackson’s True Value Family Owned & Operated
407 E. Commerce Mexia, Texas
562-3112
40 YEARS
The Mexia News
254/562-2868 214 N. Railroad Mexia
Visit us on the web
69 YEARS
www.mexiadailynews.com
LONGBOTHAM FURNITURE Quality home furnishings for your entire home All Lane Recliners On Sale
Mon-Sat 9-5:30 109 W. Navasota Groesbeck 254/729-3809
57 YEARS
622 S. 3rd St. Wortham 254-765-3203
45 YEARS
The Manor Healthcare Residence Ltd.
831 Tehuacana Rd.
562-3867 Mexia
39 YEARS
C&J
Auto Repair And Radiators
Dine In or Take Out
562-2874
114 YEARS
506 W. Milam Mexia
312 E. Milam Mexia, Texas
Hwy 171 Mexia
562-5035
562-5247
Proud
Hometown 35 YEARS
MEXIA PUMP & MOTOR SHOP Lawn Mowers Chain Saws Trimmers Tecumseh-Kohler 1329 E. Milam Mexia 254-562-6101
31 YEARS
Mexia Insurance Services 811 E. Milam
254-562-3894
20 YEARS
We Love To Sell Real Estate • Residential • Commercial • Lake Property • Land
811 E. Milam
254-562-3893
13 YEARS
34 YEARS
Call for your Complimentary Summer Makeover
28 YEARS
27 YEARS
619 N. Ellis, Groesbeck 709 Hwy 14, Thornton 202 Texas Ave, Mart 1103 Hwy 6, Marlin
Family Dentistry
254-562-2881
BF Goodrich • Michelin • Uniroyal • Brakes Computerized Alignment • State Inspection
Laurie Chaney’s
View our listings at C21mexia.com or Realtor.com
15 YEARS
Alan’s Tire and Service
819 W. Milam 254-562-9399 Mexia, Texas M-F: 7:30-5:00
13 YEARS
Providence Hospice
TOW
407 E. Tyler, Mexia
254-562-6565
254-562-2121 1006 E. Milam Mexia
Ruby’s Food Mart 915 Hwy 171, Mexia
pestcontrol1980@sbcglobal.net
Dr. Tom W. Fox, Jr., DDS
“Because your life matters.”
Krispy Krunchy Chicken
608 E. Milam Mexia
James Anderson
254-562-2582
107 E. Commerce, Mexia 254-472-0779 www.providencehospice.org
3.5 YEARS
110 N Bonham Mexia
Orthodontic • Cosmetic • Restorative Dentistry
15 YEARS
ASE Certified Mechanics
254-562-5321 6 miles east on Hwy 84
25 YEARS
McDonald’s of Mexia
•Mocha •Iced Mocha •Latte •Iced Latte •Cappuccino 903 E. Milam, 254-562-7006
15 YEARS
Customized Hydraulic and A/C hoses
CJ’s Corner Burgers Sandwiches Alon Gasoline
605 W. Milam Mexia 254-562-0461
ECOVERY
(254)-472-0024 24 HOUR TOWING
MOTORCYCLE/VEHICLE SERVICE & REPAIR
319 S. MLK HWY 14 MEXIA
Mexia’s library has changed from the small building above, ca. 1920, to the stern look of 1950’s. The library has continued to change to date and houses an extensive collection of reading materials as well as special features from time to time
H&R Block
Jennifer Oliver Clendening
Senior Tax Advisor 815 E. Milam Mexia, TX
Ph:562-3828 Fax: 562-2385
joliver@hrblock.com
25 YEARS
910 E. Milam Mexia
254-562-9341
14 YEARS
Andy & Melissa Day, Owners
10 YEARS
Hometown Store
Bobby & Becky McDonald, owners Open M-F 9-7, Sat 9-6 Sunday 11-4
254-562-9555 909 E. Milam • Mexia
Kennedy Auctions Jerry Kennedy Lic # 06940 Mexia
254-562-100
www.KennedyAuctionsMexia.com
24 YEARS
400 N. McKinney Mexia
254-562-5347
13 YEARS DAY BOYS P e e k I n The Attic SHOP
12 YEARS
Toll Free 1-800-634-7927 Fax 254-562-9252
32 YEARS
Bi-Stone Rick Building Sadler, CPA Supply
254-562-9229
911 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667
12 YEARS
32 YEARS
Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 23
254-472-0000
Ron Adams
DADDY ’S T &R OWING
33 YEARS
H&L Mexia Pest Tire & Auto Repair Control
309 E. Milam Mexia
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Page 24 • Thursday, February 27, 2014 Continued from page 21
-ion by raising teacher standards and by influencing passage of major education legislation. Trinity University, not located, Tehuacana. (1936) Established by the Brazos Synod of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Opened its doors as a co-educational institution September 23, 1869. Chartered August 13, 1870, included schools of law and theology. Removed in 1902 to Waxahachie. Site of Dunbar High School, 603 W. Main, Mexia. (2004) Public education efforts for African American students in Mexia began in 1883 with a school on Herman Street. After fire destroyed it, trustees selected this site for a twoMiss Rogers’ story brick schoolhouse built in 1915. T.K. Price was principal at the time. The school was named for Paul Lawrence Dunbar (1872-1906), a noted African American author and poet from Ohio. The schoolhouse had ten large classrooms and an auditorium. In 1948, it was razed and replaced with a large one-story school that served until integration in 1968. Later used for other classes, the structure was eventually demolished, but the site remains an important reminder of early education in Mexia. Booker T. Washington Park, 9 miles west of Mexia off U.S. 84, at entry to Booker T. Washington Park. (1968) Set aside by deed in 1898 as a permanent site for celebrating June 19th— the anniversary of the 1865 emancipation of slaves in Texas. It was 2.5 miles south of this site that slaves of this area first heard their freedom announced. Limestone County in the 1860‘s— era of initial celebrations here—had many able Negro leaders. It sent to the Texas constitutional convention of 1866 one of its Negro citizens, Ralph Long. From among people who lived in this locality at the time of emancipation came Negro legislators Giles Cotton, Dave Medlock and Sheppard Mullins. Even before land was dedicated for the park here, this was site of annual celebration on June 19th. For many years the honorable Ralph Long was the featured orator, speaking at times from bed of a wagon parked in the shade. As many as 20,000 often gathered for the occasion. On July 7, 1912, the 19th of June Organization was chartered, to administer the park and perpetuate regional history. The Negro people of Texas have shown outstanding initiative in fields of civic leadership, education, culture and business. In 1860 they numbered 187,921; in 1960 there were 1,187,125 Negros in the State. Fort Parker, Fort Parker Historical Park, off Hwy. 1245 on Park Road 35, north of Groesbeck. (1965) Built 1834 for protection from Indians. Named for leaders who bought first Predestinarian Baptist church body to Texas: Elder Daniel Parker; his father, Elder John; brothers Jas. W., Benjamin, Silas, John. Also here were Kellogg, Frost, Nixon, Duty and Plummer families on May 18, 1836, raiding Comanches killed Benjamin, John and Silas Parker, Samuel and Robert Frost and others; captured Elizabeth Kellogg, Rachel Plummer and son James, and Sila’s children, John and Cynthia Ann in captivity, Cynthia Ann married Chief Peta Nacona; her son, Quanah, was last Comanche Chief. With her baby, Prairie Flower, in 1860 she was captured by Texas Rangers. She, the baby and Quanah are buried at Fort Sill. Joseph W. Stubenrauch, 2.5 miles northwest of Mexia. (1970) Agricultural genius, born in Ruelzheim, Rhenish Bavaria, of a family of horticulturists. Educated in Germany. Migrated to New York in 1871 and to Texas 1876. In Limestone County (surrounding this marker site) lay 100 acres of open prairie land which he purchased. He discovered that fruit varieties then being grown here were unsuited to the climate. By cross pollination, budding and grafting, he developed some 100 new varieties of peaches. More than 20 which were propagated for commercial purposes included “Anna,” “Barbara,” “Carman,” “Frank,” “Fredericka,” “Katie,” “Liberty,” “Lizzie,” “Miss Lola” and “Tena.” In 1882, his younger brother Jacob also came and settled nearby. Both men were outstanding citizens. Joseph W. Stubenrauch shared his findings through his writings for “Farm and Ranch,” “Rural New Yorker” and “Holland’s Magazine”. He practiced and advocated terracing, crop rotation and diversification, soil testing, fertilization and irrigation. Many of his ideas of conservation farming and agricultural education were incorporated into U.S. government programs. He was nationally recognized for his contributions to
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Ellephan Hawkins was married in 1847 bought several tracts of land in the American agriculture. in Alabama to William Jay Reeves. The area, including property at this site, Personville, 5 miles north on FM couple and their young children where Angeline was buried. Hers is 39 from intersection of FM 39 and moved to Texas about 1855. While her the first marked burial, dating to 164, 10 miles southeast of Groesbeck. husband served in Company F, 15th February 1870, but family records, as (1963) Texas Cavalry, Sweet Regiment during well as unidentified graves, indicate Behind this marker is town site of the Civil War, Maryeast Reeves cared the possibility of earlier interments. Personville, begun in 1854 by for the family at home. Descendants Grave markers indicate that military Benjamin D. Person Sr. 1855 postmasinclude physicians, lawyers, bankers, veterans, including some from the ter was Wm. Person. Grayson Masonic and citizens in many other walks of Civil War, and members of the Lodge 265, chartered 1861, demised Masonic lodge and the Order of the 1889. Nelleva cutlife. Eastern Star, are among those buried off, built in 1906 Old Union Community, off FM 3371. (1980) here. In addition to Cox, early area was abandoned Originally known as Ferguson 1933. J. D. Hudson family names associated with the Prairie, this settlement grew up cemetery include Hastings, Herod, was first teacher around the property of Joseph and White, Wright, Henderson, Glover, in district school, Hannah Ferguson who settled here 1908. By 1915 had Yarbrough, Hunter, Brown, Lewis, about 1847. Listed on early maps it Roberts and Unfried. The graveyard blacksmith shop, was named Ivanhoe, the community today is maintained by a community lumber yard, name changed following the establishcemetery association. Since the 1880s, bank, hotel, 12 ment of a Union Church in 1877. The area residents have held an annual mercantiles, two first sanctuary, a one-room structure, memorial, which gives descendants drugstores, three was also used as a community center and relatives opportunities to reunite doctors. Dr. G. H. and schoolhouse. The present building Stephens was out- and to celebrate families, friends, was completed in 1913. Classes were standing. Fire neighbors and the area’s rich history. conducted here until 1935; the church razed town, Albert R. Mace grave marker, continues to meet at this site. Annual Mexia Municipal Cemetery off U.S. 84, October 1916. homecoming memorial services are Mexia. (1968) Rebuilt, it soon A peace officer 45 years, Mace faded away. Post held each June. joined Texas Rangers at age 21. He office was abol Lost Prairie Cemetery and Church, Hwy. 164, 10 miles northwest became deputy sheriff in Lampasas ished 1952. of Groesbeck. (1967) County in 1903; later served 12 years United Established by volunteers in 1846; as sheriff. He was president of the Methodist Church sponsoring group formed about 1900. Texas Sheriffs Association, 1920; chief of Coolidge, corAccording to legend, a man lost in the of police in oil boom towns of Mexia ner of Jester and Music Room surrounding woods named the site and Borger (1821-1930) and in Corpus Third, Coolidge. when he stumbled onto the prairie. Christi (1933-1934). Was Captain of (1974) The graves of many early settlers Ranger Co. “D” (1931-1933) when the A pioneer church, organized in the include Azariah G. Moore, a soldier in east Texas oil fields were under marArmour community, about two miles the Texas War for Independence. First to the west, on April 10, 1973, when tial law. He died in service. this area was still thinly-settled. Early Mexia Home, corner of Red officials of the cemetery association were Jeff Rambo, River and Grason Charter members were John and chairman, and streets. (1969) Caroline Askew, A. J. Moore, Leona Beulah Holloway, Built in 1883 by Waddell, and George Walker. The secretary. original one room frame church build- J. A. Arvin, a talSuccessors include ented local phoing with a spire and belfry was erectDan Dove, Jake tographer, this ed in 1874. After the Trinity & Brazos Hudson, W. Victorian cottage Valley Railroad bypassed Armour, the C.Jackson, Bill features gingercongregation in 1904 moved its buildKennedy, I.M. bread trim. Until ing to Coolidge. Under the leadership Kennedy, Joe 1887 it was a of the Rev. J. B. Curry and Hull Askew, Lansford, Cliff Presbyterian a son of charter members, the present Sims and J.B. manse. W. C. Day, edifice was built in 1922. Sims. Others helpnext purchaser, Alfonso Steel grave marker, ing in preservaadded first landMexia City Cemetery, Mexia. (1962) tion of site were NOTE: Correct spelling of last name scaping in Mexia. R.L. Dossey, J.A. L.east Camp, later is Steele. Texas War for Indepedence Easterling, W.K. owner, entergrave marker - pink granite. He was Hardison, W.L. tained famed oraseverely wounded in the Battle of San Henderson, A.B. tor William Jacinto and its last survivor. Sims, E.E. Sims, J.J. Jennings Bryan in Mexia Oil Boom, Hwy. 14 on Sims, J.L. Sims, the home in 1896. west side of of road at southern city and R.A. Sims. J. P. Yeldell limits to Mexia. (1967) Others have bought house, One of great free-wheeling oil served as caretak1912, and here booms of America before proration ers since the helped plan annuwas enforced. Population in Mexia grounds were al Confederate increased from 4,000 to 50,000 within Dunbar High School site, 603 W. Main opened; among reunions. Home days after oil discovery in 1920 at them George Henry, J.N. Henry and Rogers No. 1 Well, located 1.6 miles has been in family four generations. west of this marker, just off FM Road Prairie Hill Baptist Church, 1 mile Bill Sims. Baptist church was situated here about 1850. Present building is 1633 Earlier (in 1912), Blake Smith and north of Prairie Hill on FM 339. (1985) fourth structure to serve as a church. This congregation was organized other Mexia men had brought in a gas First pastor was Rev. William Clark. field. Believing oil also could be found on October 18, 1885, with 12 charter Founding members included the members from the Mount Antioch here, they interested a veteran operaBeavers, Browns, Easterlings, Gregorys, Baptist Church. Assisting with the tor flamboyant wildcatter A.east Henrys, Kennedys, Lansfords, Mortons, organization and ordination of deaHumphreys— who struck oil at 3,105 Rambos, Sanctifiers, Cutthroats, Sims, cons was Ezekiel Jackson Billington feet. By May 1912 gushers were flowSummers, Thompson and Waylands. (1826-1896), who had been ordained ing. Humphreys had 2,000 men; did a One early church member, A. J. as a minister by the Mount Antioch $4,000,000 business. His fortune later Rogers, was named a deacon after Church. Billington helped organize a was estimated at $37,000,000. The returning from the Civil War. number of churches in the area, boom was on. Other companies were Landowners donated the original including those at Froza, Horn Hill, formed. A second renowned wildcatter, J. K. Hughes, shared the leadership Hubbard, and Mount Calm. His daugh- eight-acre site. ter Madora and her husband, J. R. in developing the field to capacity. Mount Antioch Cemetery, FM 339, 3 miles south of Mount Calm. Leathers, donated land at first site for Millionaires, merchants, celebrities, (1985) a church building and cemetery. The operators and workers swarmed to In 1854, Ezekiel J. Billington came first sanctuary was completed in 1890. Mexia for a share in the “Black Gold.” to this area of Texas from Kentucky Many undesirables came also, and one George L. Jennings (1830-1911), who with his wife, Kitty Ann, and their had served in the Confederate army day were ousted by the thousands by three children. Billington organized a Texas Rangers. In 1920-1921 first boom during the Civil War, was called to be Baptist church the following year and the first pastor of the Prairie Hill conyear, $5,000,000 went into construcnamed it Mt. Antioch. The six charter gregation. He had preached in tion; tanks for over 30 million barrels members of the Mt. Antioch Baptist Mississippi before coming to Texas in of oil were built; but even so storage Church were Ezekiel and Kitty Ann 1873. Early members of the fellowship area was inadequate for output. A Billington, Nancy Billington, Houghton were primarily cotton and corn farmpark and clubhouse developed near Hughes, Medina Hughes, and M. J. ers from the surthis site by Col. Billington. The nearby spring was a rounding area. Humphreys – favorite camping spot for travelers in Preaching services mementos of the area. As early as 1846, this site was were held Sunday boom – are still in used for the burial of those who died mornings and use. while passing through, and the graves evenings. A Plummer of these persons remain unmarked. Sunday School Cemetery, on CR program and Bible The first marked grave in what 454, off FM 1245, became the Mt. Antioch Cemetery was classes were 7 miles north of that of George Kimmel (d. 1860), the begun later. Over Groesbeck, from infant son of early settler James the years, the Cemetery, take Kimmel. Between 1860 and 1875 the Prairie Hill Baptist FM 1245 (CR 420) community that developed around the Church has 4.5 NE, then take Mt. Antioch Baptist Church and cemebecome an imporCR 454 north tery grew and prospered. About 1874, tant part of the about 2.5 mile. however, members of the church religious heritage (1991) began moving to the town of Mt. of Limestone Luther Thomas Calm (2 miles N), where they organMartin (L.T.M.) County. ized a new congregation. The cemePlummer and his Mount Calm tery continues to be used and mainCemetery, south wife Rachel tained by the local residents and of Mount Calm (Parker) arrived in descendants of the early settlers. A about 2 miles on what is now good example of a pioneer graveyard, CR 106. (1984) Limestone County Mt. Antioch Cemetery stands as a Settlers began in 1834. They reminder of the early heritage of this arriving in this received a part of Limestone Mexican land part of Limestone County. Joseph W. Stubenrauch marker County in the grant for 3,321 Site of Old Potter’s Shop, FM 1245 and CR 758, Thornton. (1967) 1850s. Soon Mount Calm community acres in this area the next year. In The fine, white clay mined near developed with a Masonic Lodge, 1836, Rachel, her son James, and her here was used at this shop from the stores, post office, school, and churchcousin Cynthia Ann Parker were kid1840s to 1912 to make pitchers, jars, es. James Samuel Kimmel, a pioneer napped by Comanches. After Rachel settler, donated land for this cemetery, crocks, churns, flower pots, and ornawas returned in 1838, she and L. T. M. mental urns, which were used locally and the first marked grave is dated had another son, Wilson, in January and shopped out of county. In the 1870. In 1881, when the Texas & St. 1839, but Rachel died in February and 1870s the shop, built by Alberry Louis Railway bypassed the village, the infant in March. Upon Wilson’s Johnson, was a major industry in residents moved north to the railroad death, L. T. M. set aside one acre of Pottersville (later Oletha) Wm. C. Knox land for a family cemetery. Since then, line and began New Mount Calm in later bought the plant and hired J. L. Hill County. The cemetery, which has over 100 Plummer descendants have Stone as the chief artisan. John Fowler been enlarged and is still in use, is all been buried here. then became owner and was joined by that remains of the earlier settlement. Cox Cemetery, 10 miles southis soneast J. Fowler about 1900. Men east on FM 3371 at Old Union Martin House, Hwy. 14, south of dug Kaolin clay from pits and hauled Community, (2002) Mexia about 3 miles. (1962) Arkansas native Obediah Cox and Mrs. Mary E. Reeves grave mark- it to the plant, where mules provided labor to grind the clay to powder and er, Lost Prairie Cemetery, FM 3371, his wife Angeline (Glover) settled in it was fashioned into ceramics. Lost Prairie. (1978) the Ferguson Prairie (Old Union) comHistorically, Kaolin— still mined today (October 28, 1828 - January 7, munity in 1864, following his service in from the deposits nearby— has been 1917) Born in Georgia, a daughter of the Civil War. After Angeline’s death, Mr. & Mrs. Ben Hawkins, Mary Cox wed her sister, Eliza, and they Continued on next page
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used to make fine porcelain and china. It ranks with gas, oil, and stone as a major commercial resource in Limestone County. During the 19th century, vast natural resources throughout the state were creating new enterprises. Cattle and cotton headed the list of products, which also included lumber, iron ore, stone, and salt, as well as finished articles such as cloth, iron kettles, soap, flour, brick, and matches. These businesses, although crude and not of the “luxury” type, initiated the industrial growth of Texas. Tehuacana Cemetery, CR 226 (Cemetery Road) at Westminster St. (2001) This historic graveyard reflects the heritage of Tehuacana, an early Texas town founded in the 1840s by John Boyd (1796-1873). Elected from Sabine County to the First and Second Congresses of the Republic of Texas, Boyd moved to this part of the state and established the town’s first post office in his mercantile store in 1847. His offer of land and money convinced the Cumberland Presbyterian Church to begin Trinity University here in 1869. Although no deed record exists for the cemetery, the earliest documented burial is that of Boyd’s granddaughter, Roxana B. Campbell, who died in 1850 at the age of four months. Hers is one of many tombstones marking the burials of infants and children during the 19th century, bearing witness to the harshness of life on the developing Texas frontier. Others buried here include William E. Beeson (18221882), first president of Trinity University; James Lisbon Lawlis (18561902), founder and first president of Westminster College, which moved to Tehuacana after Trinity University relocated in 1902; Robert Marshall Love (1847-1903), who grew up in Tehuacana and was serving as Texas State Comptroller at the time of his death; Minnie Schuster Reck (1874-1950), who boarded college students in her home (those former students erected a memorial in her honor at the community center); and town founder John Boyd. The Tehuacana Cemetery Association maintains the burial ground, which, at the turn of the 21st century, contained more than 800 marked burials and a number of
Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 25
Personville marker, 16 miles south on FM 39 unmarked graves. L.P. Smith House, 101 S. Kaufman St., Mexia (1967) Built 1876 by Mexia merchant and banker Lewis Philip Smith and his second wife, Mattie J. Beeson Smith. Home site cost $400 in gold in 1868. House has cedar shingle roof, cedar post foundations; 12-light windows; old fashioned weatherboard siding; 6inch board floors. Square nails used in structure. Smith, a Mason and Methodist, was a leader in the town; died at 39, in 1886. Six generations of the family have lived here. Robert M. Love grave marker, off FM 171, Tehuacana Cemetery. (1967) One of armed men who helped seat 14th State Legislature in 1873 when incumbent Gov. E. J. Davis contested Richard Coke’s election. A member of the Confederate army, he fought throughout the Civil War in Ross’ brigade. Became Limestone County deputy sheriff, 1872; elected sheriff, 1884. President, Texas Sheriff’s Association for 5 years. Also served as U. south Marshall. Elected state comptroller and served 1901 to 1903. Civilian Conservation Corps at Fort Parker State Park, 4 miles north of Groesbeck on Hwy. 14, west on Park Road 28. (1997) In August 1935, construction of a state park began here on the former town site of Springfield under the direction of the Civilian Conservation Corps. The group assigned to build Fort Parker State Park was Company 3807(C), an African American CCC Camp. From 1935 to 1942, the park company constructed park buildings, roads and facilities, erected a dam across the Navasota River, and reconstructed old Fort Parker. Located nearby, old Fort Parker was rebuilt in preparation for a Texas Centennial observance in 1936, and
was the first of the CCC projects completed. The dam that created Lake Fort Parker was concluded by 1938 and required breaking and hauling rock for cement, digging out the dam footings, spillway, and wing walks, and pouring cement for the dam. Creating the park facilities included clearing and building five miles of roads, constructing an activity center / bath house, drinking fountains, and cement picnic tables. Former Texas Governor Pat Neff dedicated Fort Parker State Park in May 1941, and declared it open to the public. Company 3807(C) was transferred out of the area in 1942 after completing several complex tasks over a span of almost seven years. Oakes Cemetery, Hwy. 64 east, then south on FM 39 to CR 836. (2004) This cemetery began with the burials of Mary C. Justice (d. 1861) and Roland Pair (d. 1865). It is located on land later owned by John Collins Oakes and his wife Winnie (Radford), who migrated here from Perry County, Alabama in the years following the Civil War with their family and prospered as landowners and farmers. John Oakes died in 1876, and in 1891, Winnie for-
mally set aside the graveyard. Since then, Oakes family descendants and others in the community have helped maintain the site, expanding it in 1950 and relocating the former Sanders Creek Church chapel from Fairoaks community to be used for funerals, meetings and other gatherings, including an annual memorial service. A nonprofit corporation now provides support for the cemetery’s care. Graves include those of the Bond, Justice, Little, Martin, Morton, Oakes, Reed, Turner and other longtime community families. Early funereal customs are evidenced by the use of curbed plots and the presence of obelisks and other vertical tombstones. The hopes, faith and family ties of those interred here are reflected in the inscriptions. Still in use, Oakes Cemetery serves as an important reminder of the area’s pioneer heritage. Joseph F. Johnston Reunion Grounds, Confederate Reunion Grounds State Historic Site, Camp No. 94, United Confederate Veterans. (1965) Established 1889, in era when Texas looked to Civil War veterans for state leadership. One of numerous parks on river
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banks or other favored sites that drew large, popular annual encampments. Statesmen came to make speeches. There were orations by old soldiers; memorial programs, reviews, concerts. In 1892 the camp purchased this 70-acre tract; sold lots to shareholders; named streets for Lee, Jackson, other heroes. During week of full moon each August, members came to encampments; set up housekeeping in tents, shacks or brush arbors; entertained, feasting on fried chicken, barbecue, Brunswick stew, sweet potato pie, watermelons. Special trains were run for years from Fort Worth, Dallas, Houston. In peak years 5,000 people assembled here. Until 1940, the dawn and dusk salutes shot by Old Valverde, Civil War cannon, were heard far into neighboring counties. Besides giving honors to Confederate veterans, the encampments were occasions for family reunions. After the Mexia oil boom began in 1920, Col. A.east Humphreys, a leader in petroleum development, built club facilities and promoted use of the park. The reunion grounds still are dedicated to the memory of the late Confederate veterans. This marker was relocated here to the actual site of the Confederate Reunion Grounds by the Limestone County Historical Commission in 2003. Mrs. Martha Rogers grave marker, Lost Prairie Cemetery, FM 3371. (1978) According to family tradition, Martha Rogers was the daugther of United States Army General James Wilkinson (1757-1825) and his wife Ann Biddle of Philadelphia. When she married Benjamin
Rogers (b. 1781) in Perry County, Ala., in 1809, Martha was disinherited. She and her husband had ten children. As a widow she moved to TX in 1847 with sons Allen Jefferson, M.C. (“Lum”), and James Rogers. A true Southwestern pioneer, she lived in Lost Prairie community. Zada Jane Sanders Kelly grave marker, Fort Parker Memorial Cemetery, 2.5 miles North of Groesbeck (1969) Daughter of local pioneer, Mr. and Mrs. J. Cull Sanders, and graduate of Kidd-Key College. Married C. D. Kelly in 1910. A Groesback clubwoman; served as treasurer, Texas Federation of Women’s Clubs, when state headquarters were being built in Austin. Recognized nationally, she was awarded a certificate of honor in 1964 by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. Member of Limestone County Historical Survey Committee. Billington Cemetery, 2.5 miles north on FM 39, 2.5 miles east on CR 114, Prairie Hill (1997) Tennessee nativeeast J. Billington settled in this area with his family in 1854. In 1890 he sold one-half acre of land to John Ellison and Gus Haney on which a church and cemetery were established. The first recorded burial was that of John Sanders in 1890. Named for Billington, the nearby town was once a thriving community with a school, post office, and several stores. In 1900 additional land was purchased from the Billington estate for the cemetery, which contains 115 marked graves and 12-15 unmarked graves. The Billington Cemetery continues to serve the area.
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Page 26 â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday, February 27, 2014
607 Parkside Drive Groesbeck, TX 76642 Martha Saling - Administrator Leah Lozano, RN - Director of Nurses
Phone: (254) 729-3245 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: (254) 729-3788
www.groesbeckltc.com Now offering a secure unit for residents requiring additional assistance due to Alzheimer's or Dementia.
Dawna Hyden - Administrator
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Thursday, February 27, 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 1
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Page 2 • Thursday, February 27, 2014
New Additions to Medical Staff
P
arkview Regional Hospital was honored to introduce a number of new providers throughout the past year. Some have been added to the Parkview Rural Health Clinic and others to the Parkview Specialty Clinic.
Catholic Church, acting as a worship music leader. Appointments can be made by calling (254)772-5454. • Donald Hicks, P.A. – Don is the very newest member of the
• Jeff Chancellor, M.D. - Dr. Chancellor is an OB/GYN (obstetrics/gynecology) physician with Waco Center for Women’s Health,
Donald Hicks, P.A.
Jeff Chancellor M.D.
and recently began seeing patients in the Parkview Specialty Clinic. He is a native of Waco and has practiced medicine in Central Texas since 2002. He attended Baylor University where he received his B.A. in Biology while playing football for the Bears. He went on to receive his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX. He completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Ohio State University. Dr. Chancellor is married and has three children. He enjoys sports, kayaking and guitars. He is actively involved in music at St. Jerome
medical staff at the Parkview Rural Health Clinic, having just begun seeing patients this February. He is a seasoned Physician Assistant with over 20 years’ experience in healthcare. He earned a bachelor of science degree and master’s degree in public health and occupational medicine, both from the University of Oklahoma. He completed the physician assistant program with the U.S. Academy of Health Science when he was in the U.S. Army. His education includes combat casualty care, emergency care, chemical and radiological management, search and rescue and more. During his Army career, he was stationed around the country, and served time in Kuwait. He served as Chief of the Occupational Health Clinic when stationed at Pine Bluff and Ft. Bragg. Don has also done quite a bit of
teaching, including as an assistant adjunct professor of physician assistant studies at the University of Nebraska. Since retiring from the Army in 2004, he has worked primarily in the urgent care environment. He lives in Mexia with his wife, Donna, on a ranch, where they raise donkeys. Don is now accepting patients and can be reached at (254)562-9321. • Irene Ngantcha, M.D. – “Dr. Irene,” as she is fond of being called, joined the Parkview medical staff in the very beginning of 2013. An Internal
herself very blessed to be in Texas, where she doesn’t have to deal with cold weather and snow, and she’s close to her family in Dallas. She is a member of the American Medical Association, the American College of Physicians and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. Dr. Ngantcha is accepting new patients and can be reached at (254)5629321. • Paul Redman, M.D. – Dr. Redman is an OB/GYN (obstetrics/gynecology) physician with Waco Center for Women’s Health. He, along with Dr.
boating, growing roses, hunting, and fishing. He is active with medical mission work in Haiti, serving as the only gynecologic surgeon to perform surgeries on the island of LaGonave. He also serves as the volunteer obstetric consultant and medical director of Care Net of Central Texas. Appointments can be made by calling (254)772-5454. • LaShaundra Thedford-Smith, M.D. – Dr. Thedford-Smith came to Mexia in July, 2013, fresh from completing her dual residency in internal medicine and pediatrics at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis. She completed her medical school at the University of
Steven Zielinski, M.D.
Irene Ngantcha, M.D.
Medicine physician, Dr. Irene sees adult patients 18 and older for the broad spectrum of health issues, including wellness, women’s care, and diabetes. She is originally from Cameroon, but came to the U.S. in 1995 to attend medical school at the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta. She then completed her residency at Tulane University Health Science Center in New Orleans. Following completion, she proceeded into private practice in Virginia for two years and is now considers
member of the American Academy of Pediatricians and the American College of Physicians. She is married to Quinton Smith and they have two children, Kenyan and Kiarah. In her spare time, she loves to watch football (especially the Crimson Tide) and spending quality family time. She is accepting new patients and appointments can be made by calling (254)562-9321. • Steven Zielinski, M.D. - Dr. Zielinski is a neurosurgeon with
Paul Redman, M.D.
Chancellor, have recently begun seeing patient in the Parkview Specialty clinic for the full spectrum of women’s health care. Dr. Redman is a native Texan and attended Baylor University. He went to medical school at the University of Texas Medical School in San Antonio and completed his residency at the University of Oklahoma. He has four boys who he enjoys many types of outdoor activities with, including skiing, camping,
LaShaundra Thedford-Smith, M.D.
Kentucky College of Medicine, a master’s degree in biomedical sciences at Barry University in Miami, and a bachelor’s degree in biology at Berea College in Kentucky. Her practice is for patients of all ages, with about half being pediatrics and half internal medicine. Dr. Thedford-Smith is a
Texas Spine and Neurosurgery in Waco. He earned his medical degree at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. He then completed a residency at Montreal Neurological Hospital and an internship at Stanford University. He began performing spine surgery at Parkview Regional Hospital in Mexia in mid-2013. Dr. Z enjoys piloting airplanes in his spare time. He sees patients at a number of clinics in Central Texas and appointments can be made by calling his main office in Waco at (254) 732-3987.
Proud
Hometown
Thursday, February 27, 2014 • Page 3
Parkview’s Report to the Community
L
ast year marked the 50th year that Parkview Regional Hospital existed as a local hospital. Though the name has changed several time during those 50 years, physicians and staff have come and gone, the mission always remains the same: provide the highest quality healthcare available in rural Central Texas and strive to make our community healthier. With the help of our dedicated physicians, employees, volunteers and board members, and the continued support of our community, we will continue our passionate pursuit of excellence. Delivering quality
healthcare close to home is the single most important contribution we make. But there are many other ways we make a positive impact on the communities we serve. Here are a few of the ways we are making a difference. In the very recent past, we made over $2 million in capital improvements. Much of that was spent on state-of-the-art technology. A little over a year ago, our hospital, emergency room and clinics made the transition to electronic medical records, a step that most rural hospitals are just now taking. Also in 2013, we completed a major overhaul of our Medical Building and
Kevin Zachary and Larry Price, Administrators of Parkview and Limestone Medical Center, were on hand once again as the two facilities hosted the Building Bridges for Better Health 5K Run/1 Miles Walk.The purpose of the annual event was to provide a healthy activity for the communities we service, and to distribute health information, as well.
Marcy McFarland, RN, trauma coordinator, takes a special interest in education, be it teaching youth or adults. In this photo, she is shown teaching a home school group about how the heart works.
added a new Women’s Diagnostic Suite in our radiology department. Funding for those projects was about $170,000, provided by the Parkview Regional Hospital, Inc. Board. This coming year will see a number of smaller projects, all in the Continued on next page
In addition to providing millions in charity healthcare for those in need, Parkview is also pleased to help in various community projects each year. For example, annually, we make a donation of healthy foods for the Packs of Kindness project, which provides food for the weekends to children who may have no other food options when they aren’t at school.
Proud
Hometown
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goal of streamlining our care and making it a pleasing, efficient experience for our patients. Last year, Parkview Regional Hospital paid nearly $239,700 in taxes, which helped support our city, county and state. This included state sales taxes, as well as property taxes. These dollars help maintain local schools, fund the development of roads, recruit business and industry and provide other similar services vital to support and sustain a thriving economy. Parkview Regional Hospital is committed to ensuring the delivery of needed healthcare to all members of the community, regardless of their ability to pay. Last year, the cost to Parkview Regional Hospital was nearly $3.5 million to provide
services for those without the ability to pay for their care. With an annual payroll of more than $12.6 million and over 220 employees, Parkview is one of the largest employers in the region. This means that our staff and family members attend many of the same schools, shop at
the same stores and volunteer their time and resources for the same organizations as you do. We always appreciate the opportunity to serve the community. With the community’s support, we can continue to make our community healthier for years to come.
As a special ʻthank youʼ to the community, each year, Parkview hosts A Night with Santa, featuring pictures with Santa, cookie decorating, hot cocoa and storytime, plus health tips.
The Parkview Regional Hospital Inc. Board funded the addition of a special Womenʼs Waiting Suite in our radiology department, a soothing, comfortable place for ladies to wait prior to their mammograms. Parkview Regional Hospital is a Pink Ribbon Facility, offering the finest in digital mammography.