The Belton Journal 2018

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The 2018 all-in-one guide to the Gem of Central Texas Photo by Christopher Winston

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Table of Contents s

4

Mayor’s Welcome

8-12

Public Service Departments

16

Belton Senior Center

18

Morgan’s Point Resort

20

Area Chamber of Commerce

22

BEDC

24

Healthcare & Lodging

28

Government & Services

29

Lakes & Camping

30

Belton Parks & Rec

34

Public Library

36

BCYC

38

BISD

39

BISD Athletics

40

UMHB Crusaders

41

UMHB Athletics

42

Belton Young Professionals

46

Market Days

48

Bell County Museum

50

Shopping Guide

51

July 4th

52

Bell County Expo Center

54-56

Church Directory

THE BELTON JOURNAL STAFF David Tuma- Publisher Kierra Pixler- Managing Editor Tony Adams- Sports Editor Joshua Rivera- Graphic Designer Mellonie Caffy- Advertising Manager

Photo by Christopher Winston

4

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Lisa Caffy- Advertising

The Belton Journal

BELTON PARKS & RECREATION

UPCOMING EVENTS April 7 - One Community One Day June 9 - Movie in the Park: Lego Ninjago July 14 - Movie in the Park: Despicable Me 3 August 18 - Movie in the Park: COCO September 8 - Soggy Doggy Day December 1 - Chr istmas on the Chisholm Tr ail

Mayor’s Welcome s

Once known as a small community along the famous Chisholm Trail, Belton is now known as the community at the crossroads of two interstate highways; Interstate 35 and Interstate 14 (also known as State Highway 190). That puts us in the same unique position as Dallas, San Antonio, and Houston. (Without all the traffic!)

Located here in the center of Texas, Belton is a unique city with friendly people and a rich history. Founded in 1850 on the banks of Nolan Creek, Belton is the Bell County seat, located a short distance from Fort Hood in one of the fastest growing areas of Texas. Belton takes pride in being the home of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, which was chartered by the Republic of Texas in 1845 and won a DII National Championship in football in 2017. It is surrounded by a beautiful campus with a rich history. The university recently undertook a substantial expansion that brought to campus new educational facilities, a football stadium, and the newest gem, a performing arts center that is as elegant as the student on the campus are talented. I encourage you to view the campus.

We are blessed with two lakes, two rivers, and a creek! Nolan Creek runs right through our downtown and our recent enhancements will entice you to enjoy its natural beauty while dining, shopping, kayaking or fishing. Lake Belton and Lake Stillhouse Hollow offer opportunities for water sports, camping, or just relaxing on the beach.

Near Lake Belton, you will find the Miller Springs Nature Center, where you can enjoy walking trails and experience nature with a wide variety of flowers,

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Mayor Marion Grayson birds, and wildlife. Chalk Ridge Falls Park, located on Lake Stillhouse Hollow, also offers walking trails and a lovely 20-foot waterfall. Speaking of walking trails, downtown adjacent to the Nolan Creek, is a scenic hike and bike trail that stretches from the highway to the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor campus.

BeIton’s historic downtown boasts shopping, dining, and entertainment, along with our beautiful 19th-century courthouse. The Bell County Museum (housed in the historic Carnegie Library building), Cochran, Blair & Potts (the oldest department store in Texas), as well as numerous antique shops and other retail establishments, are all within walking distance.

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If you love museums and architecture, you will enjoy your walk around our downtown. The city has been enjoying a rejuvenation of our historic structures and new businesses in the historic district.

We are proud of our heritage and show it every day to Interstate 35 commuters who pass the 80-foot flagpole at Patriot Plaza, a gateway to Central Avenue and our historic downtown.

Enjoy a stroll along the Patriot Brick Walk and read more about our local heroes by reading the storyboards posted along Central Avenue, as well as the names of the heroes whose names are forever engraved on the walk and our hearts.

Our annual Fourth of July

celebration, sponsored by the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce, includes a parade through the heart of Belton, a stirring God & Country Concert held at the University and sponsored by Belton’s First Baptist Church, three exciting days of PRCA rodeo events in air-conditioned comfort at the Bell County Expo, and a festival on Nolan Creek. Over the years, our Fourth of July activities have made state and national top-ten lists for holiday destinations.

There is no better event for those who live in this community.

The public school system here is a state leader in the integration of technology into the classroom, and has new or remodeled schools sprinkled throughout the city. It is a coveted school system in our area. The Belton Independent School District provides varied opportunities for our students that plan to attend college or anticipate going straight into the workplace.

Belton Economic Development Corporation works closely with the schools to ensure that training is offered that benefits not only the student but the industries that choose Belton as their headquarters.

Our many churches continue to grow as the number and variety of quality homes increase. There are several historic churches that have served our community almost since our existence. Much of their history is shared on Historical markers that dot our landscape throughout town.

The citizens of Belton and I say WELCOME to our fine city, and encourage you to enjoy our amenities and our history.. and if you can’t stay, at least plan to come back and see us as often as you can.

The Belton Journal

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Belton Police Department

Staff Report The Belton Police Department has a mission to uphold the law, provide excellent service, create partnerships with the community, and keep the community safe. The police department is a backbone and an integral part to the Belton community, and is highly respected in their mission to create an all around better quality of life for the people in Belton, Texas.

The Belton PD serves Belton tirelessly around the clock, protecting our schools, our citizens, enforcing laws, and servicing the community in the process. One thing about the Belton Police Department is the great relationship it has with its citizens. The Department is very friendly to its people and simply wants to help its fellow Beltonians as well as build partnerships in the community with citizens, businesses, and other organizations.

The Belton PD has a great reputation with the people of Belton, as well as being highly respected by the state of Texas

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for its mission to reduce crime, save lives, and interact with the community it helps protect.

One way the Belton PD fosters its relationship with the citizens is community events.

At any given city wide community event, the Belton Police Department is there to not only protect, but to serve and be friendly. They often make appearances at the Fall Carnivals for Belton ISD Elementary Schools, as well as private events such as Coffee with a Cop, which allows people to meet the policemen and policewomen that stand tall and strong to protect them everyday.

Central Texas is one of the fastest growing communities in not only the state of Texas, but also the USA. With so much growth happening in Belton and its surrounding cities, the Belton Police Department has put forth an effort to expand the Police Department, which will allow them to better operate and serve their community. The renovation is set to be finished in this calendar year.

Along with that, the Belton

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PD has substations around the city which allows officers to stay within their sector and patrol more efficiently and economically.

There are many sectors of the Belton Police Department that work together to keep the city safe. One of the most noticeable sectors is the Operation Division. Patrol is under the Operations Division Deputy Chief Larry Berg who was promoted after Deputy Chief Mike Rhoden retired in 2016.

Patrol is divided into four teams, each deployed on 12hour shifts. This consists of two day shift teams (A & B) and two night shifts teams (A & B). A sergeant or corporal supervises officers assigned to each team. Patrol is typically the first line of contact the public has with the police department. Officers perform their duties utilizing cars, bicycles, golf cart, and foot patrol.

Patrol has an authorized staff of four sergeants, one corporal, and 17 patrol officers.

Another way the Belton Police Department helps its citizens is by having school resource offi-

cers at BISD Schools. This collaboration is funded by BISD paying 10 months’ salary and benefits for full-time Belton officers and the City of Belton providing the remaining two months’ salary. The goal of the SRO program is to deter distractions in the learning environment so teachers can teach and students can learn. The BPD also helps train citizens to be volunteer policemen and give back to the community.

This also interacts directly with the CHIPS and RU OK? Programs. CHIPS was formed as an extension of police resources by being extra eyes and ears in patrolling parks, parking lots, shopping centers, or other areas that may be highly populated. CHIPS volunteers also man the phones with the highly successful RUOK? Program which works to ensure safety and provide help to the elderly of Belton.

The City of Belton is truly blessed to have a Police Department that has highly trained personnel who are so dedicated to protect and serve it’s citizens.

The Belton Journal

Fire Department Staff Report Our mission is to provide the highest level of fire protection and medical services possible. The citizens of Belton deserve to be protected at all times regardless of the threat or danger. Through current and advanced training, prevention, response and enforcement, our department will stand ready to protect and serve not only the citizens of Belton but those who visit our city as well.

In August 2015, Chief Pritchard set his eyes on achieving one of the fire services most prestigious awards. The Texas Fire Chief ’s “Best Practices Recognition” award. Recognition for Best Practices is a comprehensive self-assessment process which enables fire departments to compare their practices to those of the fire industry. To obtain this award would prove to be extremely time consuming and challenging to say the least.

Throughout 2016 and 2017 the department spent countless hours revising policies, creating new policies, educating personnel on new or changed policies and many hours ensuring all personnel read and understood each and every policy. With help from the entire force of the Belton Fire Department we achieved our goal to be one of the best fire departments in Texas. In August, 2017, we were recognized as one of the top ten fire departments in Texas as a “Recognized Fire Department.”

Our EMS is also one of the most aggressive and dedicated agencies in the EMS service. Our EMS personnel are equipped with the most advanced medicines and equipment to handle any emergency situation. In 2017, the department had four CPR saves and those personnel were recognized for their outstanding patient care to the City Council.

The fire department is staffed with 35 personnel: • Fire Chief • Assistant Fire Chief • Fire Marshal and Training Officer • Administrative Assistant to the Fire Chief • Ambulance Billing Administrator • 30 firefighters Firefighters work in three shifts (A, B, C). They work 24 hours on-duty, 48 hours off-duty. This type of work schedule allows firefighters to decompress after a 24-hour work period as well as time to recover after facing some of the most stressful situations in public service.

The Belton Fire Department utilizes some of the most advanced Fire and EMS equipment in the industry such as advanced airbag lifting capabili-

Photo by Christopher Winston

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The Belton Journal

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ties in the fire service to the most advanced airway equipment and medicine in the EMS practice.

Community Involvement: The fire department participates in many community outreach programs such as: • Smoke detector installations

• Distribution of FREE fans during summer months • Helping Hands annual food drive.

• Santa Pal, which provides gifts to children each year • National Night Out • Fire Stop installations • Home Safety inspections In the Spring of 2018 our department will launch its largest and most comprehensive fire prevention

program with hopes of installing smoke detectors in every household in the city limits of Belton. This program will include firefighters, Belton Fire Corps, American Red Cross and other volunteers walking the streets of Belton and offering on-site installations of smoke detectors and Fire Stops.

Our department strives to

participate in a variety of public events and education opportunities such as: • Blood pressure screening • Fire extinguisher training • First Aid Training to citizens and city employees • Take 10 CPR • National Night Out • Belton Life Line installations • Fire Department Mascot “Les McBurney”

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Bell County Sheriff’s Department

Staff Report

The Bell County Sheriff ’s Department is far from the rough riding, cowboy hat wearing, and lasso-handling people expect Texas Sheriff ’s to be. While they could probably do all of that and more, the Sherriff ’s responsibilities include everything from patrol, investigations,

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civil and criminal process, jail management, and court service.

Though Sheriffs may not be like they appear in old western movies, they certainly aren’t less effective or cool.

The Bell County Sheriff ’s Department are highly trained technologically, mentally, physically, and know the law back and forth. People look up to the Sheriff ’s Department as law enforcers still, and the Sheriff ’s Department takes pride and provides the best service possible for the citizens of Bell County, from warrants to civil issues.

The Civil section of the Bell County Sheriff ’s Department is responsible for serving all the civil process papers issued from the Attorney General’s Office, County and District Offices, private law firms,

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and people who may request services. This includes the serving of Subpoenas Sequestrations, Order of Sales, Writ of Possessions, Forcible Detainers, Protective Orders, Injunctions, and other services of process.

The Warrant section of the Bell County Sheriff ’s Office, however, deals more with criminals because they are responsible for all felony and misdemeanor warrants issued in Bell County that are filed with the Sheriff ’s Department. Not only can the Sheriff ’s Department serve warrants and write them, but they also log, maintain, update, and recall the warrants in Bell County, whether they be a misdemeanor or felonious.

The Bell County Sheriff ’s Department also maintains an Animal Control Division.

This office is responsible for handling all domesticated animal calls, which include care, treatment and transportation of animals.

When needed, the Sheriff ’s Department can issue citations for statutory violations, trapping animals, rabies quarantines, and euthanizing animals, as it may be in the best interest of the safety of the community. They also work with animal adoption agencies to find homes for pets, and want to better the lives of animals and people of Bell County. They also are responsible for Zoonosis control and guidelines, which detail how to handle a situation with a dangerous wild animal and the caging requirements and standards for such animals that may be dangerous.

The Belton Journal

National Register of Historic Places in Belton s

F. K. and Mary Austin House 702 N. Penelope St.

Belton Yarn Mill 805 E. Fourth St.

Gray Rental Houses 702-708 N. Pearl St.

Ele Baggett House 1019 N. Main St.

T. Hamp & Beulah Birdwell House 503 N. Wall St.

John P. Hammersmith House 520 S. Main St.

Missouri, Kansas & Texas Railroad Bridge at the Leon River Morey House 328 N. Main St.

Capt. Andrew Jackson Harris House 1001 W. Tenth Ave.

Mount Zion United Methodist Church 218 Alexander St.

House at 402 N. East St.

Robert Naismith House 440 N. Penelope St.

Silas and Ellen Baggett House 1018 N. Main St. Baylor Female College Historic District (six buildings) Bounded by King, College and W. Ninth St. William Beamer House 1202 S. Beal St. Bell County Court House Public Square Belton Academy (Charles Wedemeyer House) 404 E. Ninth St. Belton Commercial Historic District Roughly bounded by Nolan Valley Rd., Penelope St. and Nolan Cr. Belton Farmers’ Gin Coop 219 S. East Ave. Belton Standpipe NW of TX 317 & I-35

R.F. and Lena Burford House 920 N. Penelope St. Carnegie Public Library 201 N. Main St.

House at 730 N. Beal St.

Cornelison House 1102 N. Pearl St.

Dr. Taylor Hudson House 324 N. Main St.

Old St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 438 N. Wall St.

Joel Elliott House 716 N. College St.

James House 805 N. Beal St.

Arthur Potts House 445 N. Wall St.

James A. Ferguson House 1123 N. Beal St.

L.B. Kinchion House 702 S. Pearl St.

James E. and Miriam Ferguson House 604 N. Penelope St.

Walter J. Lee House 804 N. College St.

State Highway 53 Bridge at the Leon River FM 817, 2.5 mi E. of jct. with FM 93

First Christian Church Parsonage 608 N. Penelope St. Dr. Jacob Moore Frazier House 618 N. Wall St.

The Belton Journal

George and Martha McWhirter House 400 N. Pearl St.

W.J. Venable House 426 N. Wall St.

V.R. Means House 609 E. 14th St. J.Z. Miller House 804 N. Penelope St. Miller-Curtis House 1004 N. Main St.

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Belton Senior Center s

Staff Report

anced, home-cooked meals can be purchased for a The Belton Senior Ac- nominal price and enjoyed tivity Center is located at at the center itself.

842 South Mitchell Street Lunches begin at 11:30 in Belton. It is open every a.m. every day, with patrons weekday from 8 a.m. to 3 calling the day ahead to get p.m., and seniors are wel- on the list for the next day. come to stop by anytime.

The Belton Senior AcThe Center is described tivity Center also holds as a “clubhouse for seniors” a variety of monthly and and is a wonderful place for bi-monthly activities, such use the center as a place to as Tai Chi, a pot luck dinner gather and exercise, play the fourth Monday of each cards or dominoes, quilt, month at 5:30 p.m.; Counline dance, share meals and try Western Dance the first participate in a variety of and third Thursday from other activities 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. for The Belton Senior Activ- a $5 donation; and a Movie ity Center is always full of Day the second and fourth activities, entertainment, Tuesday at 12:15 p.m. and food. Wonderful, balThe Hill Country Com-

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munity Action Association, Inc. of San Saba oversees the home-delivered meals and congregate nutrition programs under Site Director Kaci Hodges, while the Center’s activities are run by the non-profit organization, Belton Area Citizens for Seniors under Activity Director, Judy Owens.

For more information on the activities and happenings at the Belton Senior Center, call the Center at (254) 939-1170 or visit w w w. b e l t on s e n i o rc e n t e r. org.

The Belton Senior Activity Center is one of the initiatives of the BACFS, Inc. The Belton Area Citizens

for Seniors, Inc. (BACFS) a Texas Non-Profit (501 (C) 3) is an association of committed and caring individuals of the Greater Belton Area who gratefully recognize the past and future contributions of those served by the Belton Senior Activity Center. It is their mission to assist the Center in providing healthy, stimulating, and enjoyable activities for local seniors through financial and intellectual support. BACFS also seeks to build senior participation and increase community awareness by promoting the Center activities within the Belton community.

The Belton Journal

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Morgan’s Point Resort s

Staff Report

Morgan’s Point Resort is just booming with multiple new subdivisions starting up in 2018. Houses selling in the $700,000 range is normal in MPR. With a strong local Fire and Police Departments and situated off, but not on Hwy 317 MPR has a very low crime rate. The community has a public pool, tennis courts and the best access to Lake Belton in the area.

MPR started as a planned retirement community, but has become a bedroom community for Belton, Temple and Killeen.

Part of Loop 121’s planned expansion is due to growth in the MPR area. With the Belton Independent School District planning the new Lake Belton High School, MPR is set for high growth for years to come.

One exciting development for the MPR was the start of construction on the Cliffs of Lake Belton in Morgan’s Point. Lake lots are selling at premium unseen in Bell County before. Water lines to the high end subdivision have been installed.

MPR adds around 10-15

new fire hydrants a year. Each one installed with a 6-inch line. A new 150,000 gallon ground water storage tank will be completed by the end of February. A new disinfectant system is being installed to further improve the City of Temple water MPR receives.

An overall water computerized system is also being implemented. This new system will help residents and the city by identifying water line leaks.

The Garrett and Mic Hill Community Center was completely renovated this past year. With the pool and the

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best view of Lake Belton, the community center is hot item for renting. MPR during the past year had over 200 residential lots prepared for possible construction. MPR also has a city-owned marina that is on par with anything in the area.

The city has been upgrading the fuel system and flotation at the marina.

It was probably the most successful ideas developed by any city the past few years. MPR’s brush burner program was a huge success. MPR is known for the deer population, safe streets and trees. MPR has

dumpsters for residents who are cutting brush. MPR picks up the dumpsters and then burns the brush, saving the city thousands of dollars in costs per year. The use of the dumpsters was five times over what the city expected.

MPR’s Fire Department conducts many of the county’s water rescues. This past year, they upgraded a Coast Guard boat for Lake Belton service. The boat can handle the roughest water and has an enclosed cabin for recue victims. In blinding weather the boat has sensors that can detect body heat.

“It is the best money we have ever spent dealing with public safety on the lake,” said MPR City Manager David Huseman.

The department is also adding two all-wheel drive brush trucks for fighting fires. Tanks are being added and the vehicles were in military surplus.

Storm drainage planning is a priority for the MPR council in 2018. Work has begun on a disk golf course in Smith Park.

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The Belton Journal

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Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Staff Report

Established in 1936, the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce’s goal is to be the perfect business partner. Through numerous programs and services, the Belton Chamber is right by your side to help your business grow and prosper.

The Chamber’s main annual program is the staging of the 4th of July Independence Day Parade and its accompanying Rodeo. The July 4th celebration was named a top 10 event nationally by USA Today.

Since July 4, 1919, the Chamber has been honored to host the early morning parade. The rodeo became an official part of the Independence Day Celebration in 1924.

Currently, the Chamber has several programs in place to improve the growth and development of the Chamber as well as the Belton

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community. These programs include the Belton Young Professionals, Shakers & Stirrers, Leadership Belton, Military Relations Committee, Apprentice Belton and C3, just to name a few.

Shakers & Stirrers is a high-speed networking opportunity the Chamber promotes monthly. Each month it is hosted at a Chamber member location and all members are invited to attend. Many business owners and employees find great value in enjoying lunch and a quick Q&A time with other individuals they haven’t yet had the opportunity to meet.

There is also the Belton Young Professionals in which young professionals meet for various workshops and networking opportunities. Activities include the Brew, which is an early morning meeting focused on motivation, Inside Track which focuses on training

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and Socials are for YPs to network in a relaxed setting.

Another highlight program that continues to see great growth is the Military Relations Committee. The Chamber’s Annual Golf Tournament is hosted the first Monday in October and the funds collected go toward the committee and supporting our soldiers and military community. The Military Relations Committee focuses its attention on Meet Belton, Adopt-aUnit, and other military-related purposes.

C3: Chamber Coffee Connection is a Chamber event geared toward all members and potential members who are interested in learning about everything the Chamber offers as well as how best to utilize and take advantage of its programs. Having a better understanding of how the Chamber and its programs work provides an opportunity for members

to grow their business and their network. C3 is hosted monthly and is free to those who attend.

The Leadership Belton program has grown in leaps and bounds over the nearly 20 years since its inception. This yearly leadership training experience limits attendees to 14 per year to give the best motivational training it can. The program meets once a month for a full day and each event day is different. The focus for a day could be Healthcare, Social Services, Education, Fort Hood Day, and many more.

There are some amazing projects that have come out of this program, including last year’s police memorial project.

For more information about the Belton Chamber of Commerce projects and services, please call (254) 939-3551 or visit beltonchamber.com.

The Belton Journal

Belton Economic Dev. Corp.

Staff Report The BEDC (Belton Economic Development Corporation) was created in 1990 after the Belton citizens voted in favor to adopt the state’s Type A Sales Tax Program, an initiative introduced and supported by the city council. Acceptable projects for the BEDC are governed by state law for Type A Corporations and by policies established by the board of directors and the Belton City Council.

The board of directors consists of five community business leaders appointed to three year terms by the Belton City Council. Current board members include: Joe Shepperd, Griff Lord, Steve Jones, Barry Harper and Stevie Spradley.

Board meetings are held monthly at the Central Texas Council of Governments (CT-

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COG) building located at 2180 N. Main Street in Belton, Texas. There are two business parks in Belton. Belton Business Park located along Hwy. 190 and Loop 121 has excellent access to water, fiber optics, interstate and 3-phase electricity.

Highway 93 Industrial Park is just off of IH-35 and is where Belton’s heavy industry is located.

Belton has an excellent school system and quality of life. Employment growth in Belton has outpaced the Temple-Killeen market. From 2002-14 employment in Belton grew 64 percent from 5,236 to 8,611 in 2014.

Belton is located at the point where Hwy. 190 intersection of IH-14 and IH-35 connect.

Close to Austin, Dallas and San Antonio the Belton community is at the heart of one of the top growing areas in

The Belt Buckle

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the country. The Killeen-Ft. Hood Regional Airport is just 15-miles away.

Each year the BEDC assists new companies interested in establishing operations in the City of Belton, encourages expansion of local companies, continues developing the Belton Business Park, and supports infrastructure projects in the community to spur growth.

Business Roundtable meetings featuring special presentations are held quarterly to encourage networking among industry representatives, present topics of common interest and provide opportunities to learn and support our local industry.

The Belton Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) is partnering with the Belton Chamber of Commerce and the Central Texas Business Resource Center (the BRC) to

provide small business counseling and training services in Belton. The BEDC also holds quarterly meetings with industries located in the Belton Business Parks. The meetings are more of a roundtable affair with a speaker provided. Ana Borchardt, Director of Business Development and Retention for the BEDC is in charge of making these meetings a reality.

“Building relationships with our current industries and businesses is as important as new industry development,” said Executive Director Cynthia Hernandez.

Under Hernandez’s leadership the focus of BEDC’s services have increased to include local businesses. Traditionally Economic Development Corporations focus on attracting businesses then moving on to the next potential business thinking of relocating.

The Belton Journal

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Local Healthcare Staff Report

Belton is conveniently located between two large medical centers. Temple’s Scott & White Hospital is one of the state’s premiere medical centers with more than 700 physicians, surgeons, and specialists involved in service areas of allergy/immunology, cardiology, dermatology, pain management, pediatrics (including endocrinology, gastroenterology, hematology and neonatology), family practice, infectious disease, neurology, ophthalmology, industrial medicine, psychiatry, geriatrics, rheumatology, urology, obstetrics and gynecology.

The Seton Medical Center in Harker Heights has been growing steadily since construction began in the

spring of 2011, and doors were opened on June 18, 2012. The hospital is a joint venture between Plan-based LHP Hospital Group and the Seton Family of Hospitals.

The facility as a whole is 192,400 square feet and has 83 beds, not including the 60,000 square-foot Harker Heights Medical Pavilion.

The hospital provides family practice, internal medicine, cardiology, general surgery, orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, gastroenterology, otolaryngology, nephrology, neurology, oncology, podiatry, rheumatology and urology services.

In addition to private practices in the area, several hospitals maintain clinics and/

s

or urgent care facilities in Belton.

Hospitals and Urgent Care in the Belton area: Scott & White Hospital 2401 S. 31st Street Temple, Texas 76502 (800) 792-3710 (254) 724-2111 Scott & White Belton Clinic 1505 N. Main Street Belton, Texas 76513 (254) 933-4000 Scott & White Belton South Clinic Belton Place Belton, Texas 76513 (254) 831-2000

Scott & White Pediatric Clinic 225 Sparta Road Belton, Texas 76513 (877) 800-5722 Scott & White Belton Urgent Care 309 Lake Road Belton, Texas 76513 (254) 933-5600 Wellstone Family Medicine Clinic 2851 N. Main Street Belton, Texas 76513 (254) 939-1844 Premier ER & Urgent Care 7010 W Adams Ave Temple, Texas 76502 (254) 228-1200

Lodging s

Staff Report

When coming to Belton to visit, there is always the question of where to stay overnight. Whether it is for one night or an extended stay, there are many options for all lifestyles and budgets.

Hotel and motels located in Belton that are La Quinta Inn & Suites, Knights Inn, Budget Host Inn and River Forest Inn. For those wishing a more intimate atmosphere there are some Bed & Breakfast venues as well. Bed & Breakfast make the perfect place for family to stay or as a “stay-cation” and to enjoy where you live from

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a different view.

Casita Among the Oaks is located on Sparta Road near Belton Lake. This venue includes jacuzzi tub, full kitchen and welcomes pets. If you rent four nights the fifth one is free.

Sometimes you really want to “get away” when you are away from home. Belton is host to several cottages and cabins, many of them located along the shores of Belton Lake providing that perfect tranquil atmosphere.

Lake Belton Cottages are located at Arrowhead Point and have a view of Belton Lake from their deck. One or two bedroom cottages are

The Belt Buckle

available and have rates from nightly to monthly. Cottages have full kitchens, hot tub and a laundry room for guests.

Summers Mill is located on the banks of Salado Creek in rural Belton, where a historic gristmill still stands from the 1800’s. Summers Mill is a retreat and conference center with lodging options available from cottages, cabins, lodges and homes.

In the rustic countryside of the south Belton area you can find the Ranch Bunkhouse.

This venue is perfect for the equestrians and those just wanting to enjoy the peace and quiet of the country.

Lodging is available for both

you and your horse. There are horse riding and hiking trails that span over 800 acres. Daily continental breakfast is provided and also includes a full kitchen and washer and dryer.

Just outside the gates of Bell County Expo Center is Belton R.V. Park. In addition to lots for recreational vehicles they have lodges available for guests. The lodges are available in different sizes, with the largest being able to sleep six people. They come with kitchenettes, private bathroom, television and WiFi. An outdoor swimming pool and coin laundry room are also available for guests.

The Belton Journal

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Government & Services s

City Government The Belton City Home Rule Charter was adopted on May 7, 2005. In the charter, provisions are detailed for the adoption of the City Council.

The Belton City Council is composed of the Mayor and six council members elected from the city at large. The Council is responsible for enacting legislation, adopting budgets, appointing citizens to advisory boards, establishing and adopting citywide policies and appointing the city manager.

Type of Government Home Rule / Council-Manager Council Members Marion Grayson, Mayor David K. Leigh, Mayor Pro Tem Dan Kirkley, Councilmember Craig Pearson, Councilmember Paul Sanderford, Councilmember Guy O’Banion, Councilmember Jerri Gauntt, Councilmember Administration Sam Listi, City Manager Phone: (254) 933-5818 Gene Ellis, Asst. City Manager Phone: (254) 933-5844 Amy Casey, City Clerk Phone: (254) 933-5817 Belton City Hall Location: 333 Water Street Mailing Address: P.O. Box 120 Belton, TX 76513 Phone: (254) 933-5800 Development Services Cheryl Maxwell, Planning Director Phone: (254) 933-5812 Fax: (254) 933-5822 Belton Economic Development Corporation Cynthia Hernandez Executive Director

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The Belt Buckle

Ana V. Borchardt, Director of Business Expansion & Retention Location: 2180 N. Main Street, Ste. C1 Phone: (254) 770-2270 Fax: (254) 770-2279

Public Works Angellia Points, Public Works Director Location: 1001 W. Avenue D Phone: (254) 933-5823

Finance Department Brandon Bozon, CPA, Finance Director Susan Allamon, Assistant Finance Director Location: 100 S. Davis Street Phone: (254) 933-5800 Fax: (254) 933-5859

Utilities Amanda Cox, Utility Billing Supervisor Location: 100 S. Davis Street Phone: (254) 933-5809 Billing Department: (254) 933-5800 Water/Sewer Emergencies: (254) 9335823

Fire Department Bruce Pritchard, Fire Chief Tami Bliven, Adm. Assistant Central Fire Station Location: 203 S. Penelope Street Fire Station No. 2 Location: 420 Sparta Road Phone: (254) 933-5881

Post Office Location: 111 N. Wall Street Phone: (254) 939-2421

Police Department Gene Ellis, Police Chief Debbie Smith, Adm. Assistant Location: 711 E. Second Avenue Phone: (254) 933-5844 RU OK? Senior Program Location: 2509 N. Main Street Phone: (254) 933-5897 Municipal Court Location: 711 E. Second Avenue Phone: (254) 933-5839 Bell County Courthouse Location: 101 E. Central Avenue Phone: (254) 939-3521 Bell County Justice Center Location: 1201 Huey Road Phone: (254) 939-3521 Human Resources Charlotte Walker, Human Resources Director Location: 100 S. Davis Street Phone: (254) 933-5803

Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Open, President/CEO Location: 412 E. Central Avenue Phone: (254) 939-3551 Parks and Recreation Matthew Bates, Director of Recreation and Events Katrina McGaughey, Events Coordinator Location: 401 N. Alexander Street Phone: (254) 933-5860 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Belton / Stillhouse Hollow Lake Location: 3740 FM 1670 Phone: (254) 939-2461 Lena Armstrong Public Library Kim Kroll, Library Director Location: 301 E. First Avenue Phone: (254) 933-5830 Bell County Museum Coleman Hampton, Director Location: 201 N. Main Street Phone: (254) 933-5243

The Belton Journal

Lakes & Camping s

Staff Report

In Belton, we not only take pride in our Parks and Recreation, but also our lakes and our camping facilities. So many things and so much recreational time in the summer is spent around Belton Lake and Stillhouse Hollow.

There are camping areas, including RV parks, campsites, and screened shelters. There are places for water recreational activities, nature trails, picnicking areas, and hunting and fishing areas. Another thing people love to do is go out on their boats and jet skis and feel the breeze and refreshment of the water on a hot

summer’s day.

Belton Lake’s camping fees are very affordable; under $50, and varies depending on location and utilities.

The daily use fee is $4 per vehicle or pedestrian in the parks. Boat ramp fees are $4, and group facility fees are typically $100 or less.

Stillhouse Hollow is south of Hwy 190 on FM 1670. There are 37 campsites at Union Grove that include RVC and tent camping. Restrooms and showers are accessible and provided, as well as access to the water for swimming and boating. There are four ramps around the lake. One is located near the marina at Dana Peak Park, at

the south end of Union Grove, and the end of the park road at River’s Bend, and at Cedar Gap. At Stillhouse Hollow, there are also nature trails for those who prefer the land. There is one at Dana Peak Park that is open from dawn until dusk that can be used for hiking, horseback riding, biking, and other outdoor recreational activities.

Stilhouse Hollow’s camping fees range from $12-$38 depending on location and utilities. The daily fee is also $4 for Stillhouse Hollow, just like Belton Lake.

For more information, call (254) 939-2461.

Belton Parks s& Recreation

Staff Report

The City of Belton is a great place to live.

One of it’s greatest assets is the Belton Parks and Recreation Department. BPRD is under the supervision of Matt Bates, who is responsible for the upkeep and improvements to our Belton parks that promotes healthy living and outdoor activities. The city does its best to provide parks and other play places that families and citizens may roam, exercise, and enjoy the world around them.

The City of Belton Parks and Recreation Departments (BPRD) works with community leaders, volunteers and professional planners to get information and maintain a level of excellence that the BPRD expects to have to provide to its citizens. Belton is home to 20 recreational facilities all around the city. Of those, five are large enough to host events, and have activities available to serve the needs of the community.

Confederate Park, Yettie Polk Park, Harris Community Park, and the Nolan Creek Nature Trail lie on the banks of Nolan Creek and allow access to swimming, fishing, and kayaking, and other water and

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The Belt Buckle

non-water related activities that are perfect for a summer’s day.

The parks above also share a 1.26 mile biking and hiking trail that connects them to each other and the University of Mary Hardin Baylor, and runs all the way to Loop 121. This trail provides beautiful views, landscapes, as well as enjoyable recreation for people of all ages. The trail adds more from time to time, including a 100-year old bridge that is 396 feet in length, and extensions of the trail to UMHB and Loop 121.

The trail also offers historic storyboards that make your recreation experience an educational one, as it details the significant events of the famous Chisholm Trail.

Each park has something to offer that makes the Parks and Recreation system of Belton great. Confederate Park serves as the cities Park and Ride commuter facility, while you could host or attend an event like a party, concert, or wedding at Yettie Polk Park which offers a gazebo, seating, and beautiful sights. Many of the parks such as Chisholm Trail Park and Heritage Park offer outdoor basketball courts, baseball fields, and soccer fields which give places for kids and adults alike to participate in recre-

ational sports. They also work in direct correlation with many of Belton’s recreational sports leagues for kids, and offers a great place to have a baseball or soccer game on a nice spring or summer night. Heritage also hosts an Ultimate Frisbee and Disc Golf tournaments, which are open to adults.

Heritage also offers playground equipment for children, including playgrounds that are accessible to the handicapped.

As for the activities available in Belton Parks, there are many opportunities. The Harris Community Center hosts several programs, exercise classes, personal instruction and training, among many other things. Other events include Christmas on the Chisholm Trail, Movie in the Park, Summer Fest, the Daddy-Daughter’s Valentine’s Dance, Soggy Doggy Day, and other family oriented events. Thanks to Adopt-A-Park and Keep Belton Beautiful, the parks in Belton are in great shape as a result of the community effort by citizens and groups. In addition to great parks and programs, the departments host “One Community One Day,” which is a city wide day of volunteering to help those in need, and to clean up Belton.

The Belton Journal

Events to see in

downtown

belton BELTON MARKET DAYS RODS CHOPPERZ CAR CRUISE TOBYMAC HITS DEEP TOUR SCHOEPF’S “FREE” TEXAS MUSIC SERIES TURTLE FESTIVAL MEMORIAL WASHER PITCHING TOURNAMENT BELTON’S 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION BELL COUNTY COMIC CON CENTRAL TEXAS STATE FAIR BELTON’S BACON, BLUES, & BREWS FESTIVAL CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM CHRISTMAS ON THE CHISHOLM TRAIL

Every 3rd Saturday of each month Every 3rd Friday of each month at Courthouse Square March 8th Every Thursday between April 26th - August 9th April 28th June 2nd at Scheopfs Back Yard June 29th - July 7th August 4th & 5th August 4th & 5th October 5th & 6th December 1st December 1st Noon-7pm Belton Expo Inn & Suites Coming Soon!

For more information, visit seebelton.com!

City Calendar March 2018

10: Annual Museum Garage Sale 17-18: Sami Show 29: Taste of Central Texas

May 6-7: Relay for Life TBA: Christ the King Springfest

July 2018

TBA: National Parks & Recreation Month Celebration (weather permitting) 4: July 4th Parade

September 2018

11: Belton Senior Expo

2-4: Discover the Dinosaurs Family TBA: Veteran’s Day Program

January 2018

TBA: Helping Hands Ministry 7th Annual Canstruction

April 2018

TBA: Art & Wine on the Square TBA: One Community One Day TBA: Kiwanis Turtle Festival

May 2018

November 2018

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10-11: City-Wide Garage Sale

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October 2018

TBA: Fall Arts & Crafts Show

December 2018

TBA: Belton Lake Parade of Lights 1: Christmas on the Chisholm Trail

February 2018

3-10:Bell County Youth Fair & Livestock Show

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Public Library Staff Report

Since 1899, the Lena Armstrong Public Library has served the Belton community. As it has grown, it has occupied four locations, had four different names, and five Head Librarians. The library began as the Woman’s Wednesday Club Library and occupied a single room at the Central Hotel, which they owned and operated. The group was established in 1867 and was also known as the Women’s Commonwealth. As the first women’s movement in Central Texas, they offered shelter to women in abusive relationships.

When they outgrew their room in the Central Hotel, they rented space in the Harris & Walker building on Main Street. A woman named Emma A. Lee was hired as the first

head librarian.

With ambitions running high, members of the Wednesday Club set their eyes on having a Carnegie Library. After a resilient campaign of letter writing to Andrew Carnegie, he personally wrote the club a check for $10,000.

By the time the Carnegie library opened in 1905 at 201 North Main Street, they had 1,500 books. In 1975, the library moved to a new building at 301 East 1st Avenue and changed its name to the Belton Public Library.

Miss Lee retired in 1924 and was preceded by Miss Louie C. Meyer. By 1933, the library had become part of the city government. In 1946, Miss Meyer retired and replaced by Miss Lena Armstrong, who served the library for the next 52 years.

s

Upon Armstrong’s retirement in 1998, the library was renamed after her. The new change was the result of the deep love and respect the people of Belton had for her. Armstrong died a month later.

Kim Kroll was appointed Librarian in 2000. Currently, the library has 41,000 items including 2,814 genealogy texts.

The Library had a very productive year and served the community in more ways than one.

219 pounds of food was collected by the Library in their “Food For Fines” program, which had taken a hiatus in 2015 and donated to Helping Hands Ministries. They also hosted their first Spanish Christmas Story Time.

Bilingual story time will continue in 2017.

The Library had 60,815 Visitors in 2017 and circulated

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more than 84,607 items. Over 12,0144 patrons used the computers for a combined 8,6289 hours of job searches, education, and recreational uses. The Library launched a new program, 1000 Books Before Kindergarten. The program is designed to encourage parents and caregivers to read to children as early as possible and get into a routine of reading every day together so children learn to love the sights and sounds of words and stories.

The Library also has a number of free electronic resources available including Chilton repair manuals for cars and trucks, practice driving tests, practices test for GED, SAT, and other professional tests, electronic magazines and books, language courses and many other database all are free to use with a library card.

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Belton Christian Youth Center s Staff Report

The Belton Christian Youth Center, better known as BCYC, was founded in 1982 by Jerry Brentham and the late Roy Wood, and continues to be a viable component of the City of Belton and Bell County community.

BCYC began its operations in a local elementary school gymnasium, with the help of Belton ISD. The center is now a 30,000 square-foot facility, in the City of Belton’s Confederate Park.

In September of 2014, BCYC became an affiliate of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Texas,

which allows them to offer a variety of programs to the youth in our community.

The mission of the Belton Christian Youth Center is to provide care and promote Christian values through education and recreation to enhance the potential of all youth.

The Center offers an array of programs and services, including but not limited to, licensed 5-day a week childcare, open gym (middle school and high school) Homework Assistance & Tutoring (H.A.T.) Program, Kids Night Out for K-8th Graders, various field trips and camps, enrichment classes, UMHB Work-

Study and Intern Programs, Scholarship Assistance Programs.

The transportation service base has been expanded to serve all Belton, Salado, Nolanville schools and The Temple Priority Charter School.

BCYC also offers an on-campus program at Central Texas Christian School.

The center is also a hub for youth sports, including volleyball, flag football and basketball.

BCYC is located near the southbound side of Interstate 35, at 505 E. Ave. C. For more information, visit www.beltonyouth.com or call (254) 939-5759.

Local school listings s ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Belton Early Childhood School 501 E 4th St Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-3700 Chisholm Trail Elementary 1082 S Wheat Rd Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-316-5100 High Point Elementary 1635 Starlight Dr Temple, TX 76502 Phone: 254-316-5000 Lakewood Elementary 11200 FM 2305 Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-3100 Leon Heights Elementary 1501 North Main Street Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-3200

36

Miller Heights Elementary 1110 Fairway Drive Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-3300 Pirtle Elementary 714 South Pea Ridge Road Temple, TX 76502 Phone: 254-215-3400 Nolan Creek School 505 E. C Ave Belton, TX 76513 Phone:254-939-4451 Southwest Elementary 661 Saunders Street Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-3500 Sparta Elementary 1800 Sparta Road Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-3600 Tarver Elementary 7949 Stonehollow

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Temple, TX 76502 Phone: 254-215-3800

MIDDLE SCHOOLS Lake Belton Middle School 8818 Tarver Drive Temple, TX 76502 Phone: 254-215-2900 North Belton Middle School 7907 Prairie View Rd Temple, TX 76502 Phone: 254-316-5200 South Belton Middle School 805 Sagebrush Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-3000

Belton New Tech High @ Waskow 320 N. Blair St. Belton , TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-2500

OFFICES Athletic Business Office 254-215-2090 BISD Administration 400 North Wall Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-2000 BISD Support Center 1220 Huey Road Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-2186

HIGH SCHOOLS Belton High School 600 Lake Road Belton, TX 76513 Phone: 254-215-2200

The Belton Journal

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The Belton Journal

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The Belt Buckle

37

Belton ISD s

Staff Report

The Belton Independent School District is committed to preparing every student to excel in tomorrow’s world. Located in Bell County, the district’s boundaries encompass 198.6 square miles including Belton, Morgan’s Point Resort and part of Temple.

Belton ISD’s 1,700 employees serve more than 11,500 students on 15 campuses – an early childhood school, nine elementary schools, three middle schools, one comprehensive high school and one project based learning high school. In 2017, the district and all of its campuses received the Texas Education Agency’s highest accountability rating (met standard) based on student performance on the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness. The Texas Education Agency also awarded the district’s schools with a total of 28 distinctions in seven areas based on their performance compared to similar campuses around the state.

Belton ISD’s mission to provide an education that challenges all students to excel includes providing rigorous instruction that encourages even top students to stretch themselves to the highest levels of achievement. Beyond academic achievement, Belton ISD works to develop the whole

38

child and create inclusive learning environments. During the 2016-2017 school year, seven Belton ISD campuses accomplished the Anti-Defamation League’s “No Place for Hate” annual designation.

Belton ISD campuses have received national recognition. Belton High School has been included on lists of the nation’s best high schools compiled by US News & World Report and Newsweek. Belton New Tech High School @Waskow and South Belton Middle School have been recognized as Apple Distinguished Schools for their implementation of the district’s one-to-one digital learning initiative. In 2016, Leon Heights Elementary was one of just 26 Texas schools be selected for the prestigious National Blue Ribbon Schools program.

Belton ISD’s one-to-one initiative, which earned Apple Distinguished Schools distinctions for two campuses, increases student engagement and connects students to numerous resources that enrich the learning process.

The district began deploying devices (either iPads or MacBook Pros) to students at South Belton Middle School and Belton New Tech High School @Waskow in 2011. Belton High School was added in 2012 and Lake Belton Middle School in 2013. With the

The Belt Buckle

addition of North Belton Middle School in 2014, every secondary campus is a one-to-one learning environment.

Belton ISD’s Career and Technical Education programs offer high school students the opportunity to learn skills in 15 different career clusters as varied as architecture and construction, health sciences, and hospitality and tourism. CTE instruction provides content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills for students to further their education and succeed in current or emerging professions. Belton ISD will develop quality instructional collaborations with business and industry partners to prepare students for post-secondary education, industry certifications, and a globally competitive workforce. In 2017, a construction trades team of four students from Belton High School took first place in the TeamWorks event at the 2017 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference.

Over the last ten years, Belton ISD’s student enrollment has grown by about 3,500 students, and demographers project that trend to continue for at least the next decade. As a fast-growth school district, Belton ISD is working to make sure that its facilities are ready to serve an in-

creasing number of students.

In May 2017 voters approved a $149.7 million bond program to fund the construction of two new Belton ISD campuses and smaller projects at two existing facilities. Updates to the Wall Street Auditorium and the addition of two music classrooms and a standard gymnasium at Lakewood Elementary School will be complete by the fall of 2018.

Construction on the new Charter Oak Elementary School is slated for completion in time for the 2019-2020 school year, with the District’s second comprehensive high school opening the following school year. Lake Belton High School is scheduled to open in the fall of 2020 with students in grades nine and 10, and another grade will be added in each of the next two years. The first senior class will graduate from the school in 2023.

Support from the community and taxpayers has made it possible to successfully manage the district’s fast growth. Partnerships with local businesses extend learning opportunities outside the classroom, and cheering fans fill the stands when student athletes play at Tiger Field.

This is a community that supports students, and a school district that is preparing them to excel in tomorrow’s world.

The Belton Journal

Belton ISD Athletics s

Staff Report

Belton is the largest school in District 8-6A, with the largest enrollment of any of the schools in the district. University Interscholastic League’s reclassification plan moved the school from Class 5A to Class 6A in February 2014. The district’s enrollment numbers have kept the program above the 5A/6A cutoff in the 2016 and 2018 snapshots.

The Belton Athletic Program has been reborn the past 10 years with major facility improvements for every sport. The opening of 32,000 sq. ft. Belton Athletic Complex in 2012 was part of the overhaul that began with the building of the swimming complex. The football turf was replaced in August 2015 and the track was resurfaced in December 2015.

Most colleges in Texas don’t have a multipurpose athletic complex like the athletes in Belton have. The Belton Multipurpose Athletic Center, opened in 2012, is a state-of-the-art facility that houses the athletic offices, athletic business offices, weight center, meeting centers and a conference area that doubles as a workout center and a banquet center. The second floor view that overlooks a packed Tiger Field on a football Friday night is one to behold.

The trend in using weight training to build better athlete and is one of the reasons the Lady Tigers softball team’s home runs have went through the roof over the past five seasons. Belton set a school record with 32 home runs as a team in 2014 and the school’s home run record was reset in 2016. The school’s powerlifting teams have sent numerous athletes to the Texas High School Boy’s and Girl’s Powerlifting State Meets over the past several school years. The girl’s

basketball team has benefitted from the weight training and had their best season in 20152016 in 14 years. The boy’s basketball team has benefitted from the weight training and is in the midst of their best season in over a decade.

The best athletes win and it isn’t just football players that need muscle at the 6A levels.

Belton is following the blueprint of schools have done in terms of facilities, like Allen, Odessa Permian, The Woodlands and Euless Trinity.

“Our facilities are the best in Central Texas,” Belton athletic director Mike Morgan said.

“Our school board is ahead of the curve and sees the need to provide our growing district with up to date facilities. Not only does our football have an incredible field house, but our baseball team has their own field house, as do our boys and girls soccer teams.

Our boys and girls swim teams have an incredible swim facility on campus. The new track and artificial turf for football and soccer are installed. Our competition and training facilities allow our athletes to practice and play at a very high level. It’s a great time to be a Belton Tiger.”

The blueprint that Belton High School has taken and made their own has produced over 40 NCAA Division I athletes within the past decade. Belton is the hometown of many nationally-known figures, including Baltimore Orioles’ draft pick Max Hogan, Texas Christian University pitcher and potential Major League Baseball draft pick Jared Janczak, University of Texas’ seven-time All-American Track & Field star Wolf Mahler, University of Texas Football center Zack Shackelford, University of Iowa Football quarterback Peyton Mansell, All-American softball pitcher Sidney Holman and

The Belton Journal

All-American swimmer Noah Henry, just to name a few. Belton even has a coach in the collegiate ranks in Syracuse special teams quality control coach and former Tiger Football standout Jeff LePak. Those are eye-popping numbers that most of the programs in Texas can only dream about.

Belton has excelled on the field, with several district championships and playoff appearances up and down the athletic program.

Over 100 scholarships have been awarded to Belton athletes under the Belton Athletic Program umbrella over the past seven seasons. The dedication it takes to rebuild the baseball and softball facilities before addressing football is the driving force of total athletic program commitment that has produced scholarships on the level of the top high school sports programs in the state.

But it goes far beyond facilities: it is in the classroom as well.

Belton boasts one of the state’s highest rates for all-district and all-state academic athletes.

“We are very proud of not only the success our athletes have on the field but just as importantly, we are proud of the academic success our kids have here at Belton High,” Morgan said. “We developed an athletic academic program that is rarely seen in schools today. We supervise and coordinate our policy and procedures for academic registration, scheduling, counselor communication for all sports.”

When Morgan was the assistant athletic director, he was a key figure and resource for parents, administrators, counselors, coaches and students in academic, athletic, NCAA and UIL questions and issues. He oversaw the SAT class, which still meets one night a week to help prepare

kids for taking the test.

Belton also has the top junior high school facilities in the area and their weight rooms at that level are near or above varsity level of some programs.

Summer workouts are legendary in Texas, which has led to success on the football field. Belton 7-On-7 Summer Football qualified for the State Championships in College Station in 2014, 2015 and 2016. It has led to success on the gridiron in the fall, with the team going 25-22 in the past four seasons and playing state perennial powerhouses within those seasons. Temple, Pflugerville Hendrickson, Waco Midway, Round Rock, South Grand Prairie, Garland, Dallas Skyline and Allen are just a few of the teams that the Tigers have seen in that time frame.

Belton is one of the few in the area that have a time just for junior high boys and female athletes during the summer months and the numbers attending are astounding. The results of what the Tigers and Lady Tigers outweighs what the teams do on the field, but helps morale and self-esteem off of the playing fields as well.

“Athletes have a six-week period during the summer that the UIL allows us to work them out in a strength and conditioning program, two hours a day for four days a week,” Morgan said.

“It’s very beneficial for our kids so they can keep the momentum gained throughout the spring workouts and report in shape for August practices. Athletes also have summer league basketball, volleyball, baseball, swimming among other things to keep them in shape and competing as well as 7-on-7 football. These are all voluntary programs and are not run by high school coaches, but it keeps the kids busy all summer when they’re not on vacation.”

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UMHB Crusaders s

Staff Report

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor prepares students for lives of leadership, service, and faithinformed discernment in a global society. Academic excellence, personal attention, broad-based scholarship, and a Baptist vision for education distinguish this Christcentered learning community.

UMHB has achieved record growth annually for nearly a decade and remains committed to the personal attention that has been a cornerstone of the UMHB experience for more than 170 years.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor offers bachelor’s degrees in 47 undergraduate majors, seven master’s degree programs, and three doctoral degrees (Doctor of Education, Doctor of Nursing Practice and

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Doctor of Physical Therapy).

The university augmented its undergraduate programs this year with the expansion of its pre-engineering program into a full engineering degree; UMHB’s competency-based education program for adult degree completers was also expanded to include an online RN-to-BSN degree program.

In October of 2017, the university dedicated the Sue & Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center. The centerpiece of the new facility is the Baugh Performance Hall, a 524-seat theater with a proscenium stage.

The center’s design allows it to be used as a teaching facility as well as a venue for performances. Through the support of generous alumni and friends of the university, the $20 million building was completed debt free.

The performing arts center was the final project of the

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Campus Master Plan adopted in February 2011. This spring the university is celebrating the successful completion of Momentum: The Campaign for Mary Hardin-Baylor.

The campaign exceeded its $60 million goal by raising more than $82 million for scholarships and Campus Master Plan projects. Since 2011 the university has completed six new facilities: Cummins Field House, Baugh Center for the Visual Arts, Isabelle Rutherford Meyer Nursing Education Center, Crusader Stadium, Bawcom Student Union, and Sue & Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center.

UMHB students take active roles in spreading the good news of Jesus Christ across the world. Last year nearly 300 students, faculty, and staff members took part in mission activities in 33 countries. In addition,

more than 200 students were regularly involved in missions and service projects in Central Texas.

In April UMHB will hold its 79th Annual Easter Pageant.

The studentled production depicts the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The pageant performances consistently draw more than 6,000 spectators and are also streamed online, where they are watched by an even larger audience of people around the globe.

Crusader student-athletes compete in 12 sports in the American Southwest Conference of the NCAA’s Division III. The university has won national titles in both golf and football. In the fall of 2018, athletes in a new sport will join the Crusader family when UMHB launches its newest intercollegiate program, Cross Country.

The Belton Journal

UMHB Athletics s

Staff Report

The University of Mary Hardin Baylor is nationally recognized for its excellent academic programs and now the success of the Crusaders’ athletic program has reached the elite level.

Thanks to the forward thinking and planning by the university’s administration during the past few years, a number of additions to enhance athletics have sprung up on the sprawling campus.

First, night games for four sports can take place, with lighting installed at Red Murff Baseball Field, Dee Dillon Softball Field and the Cru Soccer Complex, and on-campus Crusader Stadium, much to the delight of players, fans and planners for each sports’ scheduling flexibilities.

A new $2 million field house annex for the football program was completed in 2011, and is adjacent to the existing Anderson Field House and football practice field.

The Cummins Field House provides an additional 9,429 square feet of space and is connected to the Andersen Field House by an architectural tower and a covered walkway.

On Sept. 21, 2013, Crusader Stadium was opened. A new, 8,766 capacity stadium built adjacent to the Frank and Sue Mayborn Campus Center, Crusader Stadium drew 9,384 fans opening night and were treated not only to a 35-7 victory over rival Wesley College, they were treated to an amazing fireworks display following the game.

In the 2013 season, the Crusader football team drew 41,564 fans in an unprecedented 10 home dates. In 2014, the team drew 26,761 fans in six home dates. In the 2015 season, 24,748 fans passed through the turn styles in eight home dates. In the 2016 season, 33,844 fans attended nine home games.

This past season, 31,456 fans turned out for another nine-game home schedule. In the first five seasons of Crusader Stadium’s existence, 158,373 fans have passed through the turn styles at Crusader Stadium in 33 home dates. This is for Crusader Football games only.

The Bawcom Student Union building was completed in 2014 and is the epicenter of

The Belton Journal

campus life for UMHB students.

In 2014, the Crusader football team finished its season by repeating the second best run in the school’s football program. It ended with an overall record of 11-1, with the Crusaders losing to Linfield College 31-28.

In 2015, the Crusader football team finished its season with an 11-2 record, ending with a loss in the NCAA Division III National Championship Quarterfinals at Linfield 38-35.

In the 2016, the Crusaders were the No. 1-ranked team in the regular season and enjoyed home field advantage all the way to Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl LIV. Defeating Redlands, No. 7 Linfield, No. 13 Wheaton, and No. 8 Mount Union (who had made 11 consecutive Stagg Bowl appearances), the Crusaders embarked on their quest for a national championship in the NCAA Division III National Finals against Wisconsin-Oshkosh in Salem, Va. John Mowery hit a field goal with 1:11 to play in the first quarter and Stagg Bowl Most Outstanding Player Blake Jackson scored a touchdown on a 1-yard quarter with 3:16 to play in the first half gave UMHB a 10-7.

From that point, the defenses took over.

A key interception by Jaedon Johnson, key pass breakups throughout the second half and the game-clinching interception inside the game’s final minute by Matt Cody sealed UMHB’s first football national championship in their 19-year history. UMHB returned to the Stagg Bowl in 2017, but fell just short of making it back-to-back national championships as the Cru fell to Mount Union 12-0 in the title game.

Head coach Pete Fredenburg has been the architect of the Crusaders Football program, being the only head coach of the team. UMHB’s program is the model of success, with the team going on a 62-game regular season winning streak, which was started in 2009 and was snapped in October 2015. The Crusaders have not lost a home game in the regular season in Belton since 2006. Fredenburg will be inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in April of 2018.

UMHB and Crusader Stadium also benefited from the ability to host Texas High

School Football playoff games as well.

UMHB has also had success away from its football program. The women’s golf team won an NCAA Division III National Championship in 2013 and was the National Runner-Up in 2014. They had the NCAA Division III National Champion in McKenzie Ralston in 2015. The men’s basketball was the NCAA Division III National Runner-Up in 2013. Ten of UMHB’s 12 athletic programs have sent teams or individuals on to NCAA Division III National Championship play.

The economic impact on the local community is tremendous. Sports-related travel is important for Belton’s conventions, special events and visitors and has a positive impact on the local economy, especially in regards to money. Visitors travel to this area to watch their favorite teams play football against UMHB stay nights in local hotels, eat in the restaurants, shop in the retail shops and, of course, purchase gasoline.

In a data report from the Office of the Governor on Economic Development and Tourism for the Killeen-Temple-Fort Hood MSA, the following figures revealed: Total Direct Travel Spending by Type of Traveler Accommodation, Hotel/Motel: $220 million; Visitor Spending by Commodity Purchased; $467 million; Arts, Entertainment & Recreation (including sports): $44.8 million; Industry earnings: $106 million; Arts, Entertainment & Recreation (including sports): $19.9 million: Jobs Created by Travel Spending: 5,350; Arts, Entertainment & Recreation (including sports): 840; Total tax receipts: $36.2 million.

UMHB hosts a large number of out-oftown fans each year in all sports. The average travel party per football game utilizes many hotel rooms and those people usually eat at least two meals per trip. The figures show that Cru football’s home games alone can account for hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for the Belton business community.

Crusader Stadium has also played host several key high school playoff football games over the past four seasons, catering to area teams and making the venue a centralized, marketable option for prep playoff football in the area.

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Belton Young Professionals Staff Report

One of the biggest issues facing communities is finding the next generations of employees after the Baby Boomers retire. Baby Boomers make up a large percentage of the workforce, and after retirement, there will be a shortage of good help.

As a result of this nation-wide initiative to attract and retain the next generation of leaders, the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce created the Belton Young Professionals (BYP) in 2008. The BACC is addressing the issue of retaining the workforce of an overall economic area with the visionary efforts of BYP. It is BYP’s desire to connect young professionals with one another in order to relocate, expand and/or promote themselves and

businesses in our community.

The organization’s mission statement states that “Belton Young Professionals is committed to build a community of young professionals who enrich the quality of business and life in the Belton area by providing opportunities for young professionals to get involved in the community through professional development, civic outreach, and social/ business networking activities”.

BYP members are generally between the ages of 19 and 40; however, this age is merely a guideline. Membership is based on an individual’s willingness to be young-at-heart, not his or her birth certificate. BYP is looking for vibrant people with fresh ideas and visionary hearts.

The BACC, City of Belton, and Belton Economic Development

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Corporation worked together to form the BYP organization based on the evaluation of FHER. BYP meets the third Wednesday of February, April, July and September at noon, called the Inside Track (a professional development lunch) at various predetermined locations. There is a speaker or teaching session for each meeting.

The organization fits the necessity for flexibility of the younger working professionals by being less structured.

The current president of BYP is Sarah Donohoe from Central Land Title Company. Board members include Lacey Steenson from First Texas Bank, Angellia Points from the City of Belton, Matt Davis from Brockway, Gersbach, Franklin & Niemeier, P.C., and liaison Nicole Stairs with the Belton Area Chamber of Com-

merce.

Members said the city of Belton has called on BYP looking for young professionals to fill some of the positions on the board.

You do not have to be an active member or business owner to participate in one of BYP’s meetings or leadership workshops.

By becoming a corporate member (for only $100 per year), you can aid in keeping the BYP a minimal dues organization. Minimal dues encourage young professionals to participate regardless of their current financial situation.

Through sponsorship of the organization, this will ensure that BYP members continue to receive quality opportunities for their growth as young professionals.

For more information, please visit beltonyp.com, or call (254) 939-3551.

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The Belton Journal

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Market Days s

Staff Report

Every third Saturday of the month at Belton Market Days, historic downtown Belton turns into a pop-up, open-air market.

Central Avenue beginning at Penelope St. and stopping at Main St. is lined with outdoor booths, tents and food vendors.

Shop with vendors who offer a variety of everything from arts and crafts, collectibles and antiques.

Vendors also showcase handmade jewelry and clothing.

The Downtown Belton Merchants Association sponsors Belton Market Days.

For more information: Contact Sandy Bigham, Vendor Coordinator (254) 939-5699 Or E-mail sandy10@hot.rr.com

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Belton Market Days Hours 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

(Summer) 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Market Days 2017 March 18 April 15 May 20 June 17 July 15 August 19 September 16 October 21* November 18 December 2* *Special Market Days with different start & end times

The Belton Journal

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Bell County Museum s

Staff Report

The Bell County Museum was founded on April 25, 1988, by the Bell County Commissioners Court and is part of county government.

The Bell County Museum collects, preserves and interprets the historical and cultural heritage of the Bell County region, for all its citizens.

The museum is housed in the beautifully restored 19041905 Carnegie Library building, which is a recorded Texas Historical Landmark and listed in the National Register of Historical Places. Prior to the museum being opened to the public in 1991, the restoration project of the Carnegie Library took place and cost over $400,000. In 2006, an old Chevrolet dealership was renovated and connected to the Carnegie Library building, creating a unique structure that

48

bridges contemporary style with historical architectural integrity.

The award-winning Bell County Museum features a permanent interactive exhibit on the Gault Site which offers an in-depth look at this important active excavation through dynamic interactive areas.

The Gault Site is one of the largest excavated sites of the Clovis culture (13,500 years ago) and a Texas State Archeological Landmark. Gault has more than 2 million artifacts, some of the earliest art and oldest architecture in North America. The museum offers monthly tours of the Gault Site in Feb., April, June, August, Oct., and Dec. Charley Chisolm is the official museum mascot and guide.

Children can look for Charley throughout the museum exhibits for important historical facts.

Charley is also available for inschool visits and educational

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outreach. The outdoor archeology pits allow youth to explore the past as well as concepts and techniques related to the areas rich archeology.

Some of the fascinating exhibits include the Early Ft. Hood Development, The Little River log cabin and the contributions of the Chisolm Trail.

In 2017, special temporary exhibits will include “Citizens at Last: The Women Suffrage Movement in Texas,” “Changing Face of Power: Women in the U.S. Senate,” “Harley Davidson Through the Years,” “From Swords to Plowshares: Metal Trench Art from World War I,” “Work, Fight, Give: American Relief Posters from World War II” and more. Check the museum website listed below for exhibit dates.

Children and families may also want to check out the museum’s Discovery Days held

on the third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The events are free and include a fun and easy craft.

The museum owns more than 12,000 objects related to the Bell County region, including a collection of more than 260 moustache cups, costumes, textiles, photographs, correspondence and decorative arts.

Objects in the museum collections are available for research by anyone interested in the history of Bell County. In addition, the museum has a research room with an intensive document and manuscript library to aid those researching Bell County history.

Stop by and visit the museum located at 201 N. Main Street in Belton.

For more information or to find out about volunteer opportunities, please call (254) 9335243 or visit the museum website at bellcountymuseum.org.

The Belton Journal

Night Life s

Staff Report

Scores Scores, a family-friendly sports bar, will be celebrating it’s third birthday on Saint Patrick’s Day - March 17. This popular downtown Belton hotspot opens at 3 p.m. on Monday-Tuesday, and at 11 a.m. on Wednesday-Sunday. Happy Hour features 16-ounce domestic drafts for $2 from 5 p.m.7 p.m Monday-Friday and from 12 p.m-4 pm on Saturday-Sunday.

The menu consists of salads, wings, and 7-inch or 12-inch signature pizzas.

A gluten-free crust is available upon request. Guests can watch major sporting events on one of the nine TV ’s - eight of which are inside the establishment and one is outside on the covered patio. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.

The upstairs patio is available for reservation.

For more information about Scores, check them out on Facebook or call (254) 831-5111.

Blends Blends Wine Bar opens at 12 p.m. daily and features about 50 different wines, sold by the glass or by the bottle. Jazz Jam Open Mic takes place on the first Thursday of each month, from 8 p.m.-10 p.m. The third Thursday of each month is Funkadelic Improv from 8 p.m.-10 p.m.

Live Music Fridays and Karaoke Saturdays round out the music-filled week at Blends. First Sundays Brunch, from 12 p.m.-2 p.m., features brunch provided by RosieJo Meals, $2 mimosas, shopping, and half off glasses on open bottles.

More information about Blends Wine Bar, visit the Facebook page @BlendsWineBar or call (254) 613-4739.

rant. Recently purchased

by Zechariah Baker, it reopened in November 2017 as a theatre. Classic movies and live entertainment are The Beltonian’s specialties - audiences can enjoy animated movies, cult movie classics, foreign films, black and white classics, old westerns, and much more!

The Beltonian Theatre is open on Thursday nights, Friday afternoons and evenings, all day Saturday and after 12 p.m. on Sundays.

The theatre is open every day during Christmas Break and Spring Break and will have different summer hours. More information and show times can be found on the Beltonian Facebook page @TheBeltonianTheatre or the website www.thebeltoniantheatre. com .

The Beltonian The Beltonian Theatre’s century-long diverse history adds to the unique atmosphere of downtown Belton. Over the years, it has been a theatre, pool hall, church, antique store, comedy club and restau-

Bold Republic Brewing Company Bold Republic Brewing Company, Belton’s first craft brewery, is scheduled to open in Spring 2018.

Work is underway - paving a path for this to be a place where everyone can relax

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and enjoy Texas beer. Locally made reclaimed furniture and unique artwork will fill the area and the focus is on customer attendance. The owners, Patrick and Adriane Hodges, look forward to forming relationships with their customers and offering incentives for regulars.

While the exact details of all that will be offered are remaining secret until opening, Bold Republic Brewing Company promises to be a one-of-a-kind establishment featuring specialty craft beers and food, including Jalapeño Cream Ale Beer and German pizza. Handcrafted in-house beers, and a small selection of wines will be available.

Food selections will include giant pretzels, hand-tossed specialty pizzas, hot sandwiches, chips, beer queso, and large Virginia peanuts.

Bold Republic Brewing Company will be open Wednesday-Sunday and closed Monday-Tuesday.

More information can be found on Facebook @boldrepublicbrewing.

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The Belton Journal

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49

Shopping Guide s

Staff Report

Get your shopping bags ready, because Belton has plenty of shopping for everyone and everything. When in Belton, Texas one must have proper Texas apparel and there is no place better in town to get your Western Wear than the oldest department store in Texas, Cochran, Blair & Potts.

After you are dressed in your best cowboy or cowgirl gear, complete with, pearl snaps and, of course, boots, time to continue your shopping trek.

Belton is an old town going back more than 150 years, an antique if you would say. Antique?

Did somebody say antiques?

There are more than a half dozen shops that sell antique and vintage items in Belton. First stop would be to start in the countryside at Bell County Flea Market, with scores of vendors that have those old treasures you never knew you wanted, until you saw them. As you move into town you will have stops along the way at Marta’s Room Antiques, Second Chance Village and Retail Shop.

Once you are back in the city limits, 6th Street Antiques will welcome you into town, as well as numerous other antique stores.

Just past the courthouse square

50

you will find The Exchange on Main, Vintage Daze, Southern ComfortsA Vintage Boutique.

After looking at the old, it may be time to buy new.

What could be better than going to a boutique and seeing what is new in the world of fashion? Main Street Bridal has wedding gowns and formal wear for that special occasion. Fun, hip and trendy boutiques that are Belton favorites include Snicklebritches, Aida’s Outlet and Flamingo Grove & Lone Grove Trading Co. has merchandise for the entire family.

In case the men are feeling a little left out, there is plenty of shopping for the do-it-yourselfer. Keith’s Ace Hardware and McCoy Building Supply is ready with power tools and lumber that you just must have.

Bourland Landscape Supplies & Outdoor Power Equipment has the garden tractor of your dreams. Belton Feed & Supply has all you need to put that garden in, and baby chicks, too. McGregor Welding Supply is your go-to place for metal repair needs when you’re ready to build that chicken coop she’s always wanted. BJ’s Flowers and Belton Floral

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and More are always there to help you, if you do not finish the “Honey -do” list on time.

Does your

family enjoy the outdoors and sports?

Belton has many shops that cater to all your sporting needs. If you want to hit the courts make a stop at Tennismart to get some new racquets, shoes and tennis wear and also sign up for lessons. TriCity Bicycles can get you on the road with a new bike, or repair the one you have. For those, who love the outdoors, Love’s Guns Etc. and KEM Armors is equipped to get you on the shooting range or ready for hunting season. Nomads convenience store is ready with live bait, tackle and imported and craft beer as you head out to the lake for some fishing.

One must not think of just your self when shopping. You must buy for others, and you need to go to gift shops. Downtown Belton at My

Giving Tree Gift Shop & Gallery is a gift shop stocked with eclectic gifts and works from local artists.

Estacia’s has Spanish inspired gifts and décor items, many imported from Mexico. Pizazz Gifts and Decor has the perfect gift for nearly any occasion. For those unique gifts you can only get in Belton, you have to stop in at Bell County Museum Gift Shop and University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Campus Store. If someone is only worthy of a gag-gift, a look in at Munson’s Emporium; they may have the right gift for them. HOCTIL Cool Tools Store is a specialty store that carries merchandise that has been adapted to help carry out daily tasks independently.

And, of course the kids are going to want to see the “fishes” at Fins Aquatics.

Trying to save a little money?

Then thrift store shopping is you best bet. Baylor Scott & White Hospice Thrift Store has some of everything. And Laura Mae’s Resale Shop specializes in gently worn ladies apparel.

The Belton Journal

Expo Center s

Staff Report

The Bell County Expo Center is Central Texas’s largest and most versatile entertainment venue in Bell County.

The big, silver dome stands out to drivers on Interstate 35 and can easily be seen from the air by small aircraft flying in and out of Killeen.

The County Judge John Garth Arena holds 6,000 seats, and the folding chairs on the arena floor raise the total 8,500 seats.

The main Exhibition structure is 100,000 square feet while the Assembly Hall and Special Events room are 12,000 square feet and 5,000 square feet respectively.

The building stands 100 feet high and is a symbol of the unity between Belton, Killeen and Temple.

Before its construction, there had been several discussions about the possibility of building such a facility, however finding the right location was not easy because of the cost. While Temple searched for a location that was within Temple city limits, Killeen preferred a

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location near Harker Heights.

The three cities combined resources and agreed that the Bell County Expo Center ought to be in Belton, the county seat.

In 1987, about two-thirds of the inhabitants of Bell County assembled in a pasture close to Highway 190 West, about two miles south of the courthouse in downtown Belton and they agreed that the site was ideal.

This exposition center was the brainchild of then Bell County Judge John Garth. This project cost $12 million and was warmly welcomed by the community.

Initially, the Bell County Center was constructed primarily to host the Bell County Youth Fair; however it has been the venue for an assortment of events including concerts, rodeos, conventions, graduations, banquets and livestock shows.

The annual Jehovah’s Witness Convention is one of the biggest conventions at the arena and brings in between 35,000 to 40,000 over a six-week period.

Handicap seating is methodically positioned and the elevator is at the west end of the north concourse.

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The Bell County Expo Center was constructed with the intent of having a positive economic impact as well as increasing the quality of life for the

community.

To learn about upcoming events at the Expo, visit www. bellcountyexpo.com or call (254) 933-5353.

The Belton Journal

Expo Center Events s

TABA Home & Garden Show Feb. 24-25.

Please join us for the 43rd TABA Home and Garden show as we bring you new features for exhibitors and attendees alike. The Temple Area Builders Association Home and Garden Show gives local and national companies the ability to highlight their services and unique products to a captive, motivated audience.

Taste of Central Texas March 29 The Taste of Central Texas is a fundraiser to support emergency and crisis services offered by Central Texas youth Services Bureau, Inc. This is a fun event where food can be enjoyed from over 30 local restaurants, caterers, and bakers; bid on great action

items; and listen to some great live music.

City-Wide Garage Sale June. 9-10 Shop for antiques, collectibles, memorabilia, and cool old stuff at this awesome vintage market!

4th of July & PRCA Rodeo July 5-7 Since the 1850s folks from all over Texas have come to celebrate the 4th of July in Belton. This week-long celebration draws over 50,000 and features one of USA Today’s Top Ten Parades in the country, the Festival on Nolan Creek, a carnival, Patriotic Program, and Kick-off BBQ, with the rodeo being the highlight of the celebration.

The Belton Journal

Bell County Comic Con Aug. 4-5 Bell County Comic Con is a wholesome family friendly event for our community! Anyone interested in comics, pop culture, gaming, movies, and fantasy are welcome to attend! There will be artists, superheroes, comics, toys, games, cosplay contests, celebrity guests!

Come dressed up in your favorite costume or just check out all the cool costumes in attendance.

American Cancer Society Bra Brunch Oct. 2 Your support of the 6th Annual American Cancer Society Bra Brunch will have a direct impact on funding ground breaking research and patient programs and services.

Thank you for partnering with us to

help save lives today and helping us open doors to a brighter future tomorrow. We are grateful for your consideration of this request. There will be celebrity models, guest speakers, cupcake raffle, brunch, and live bra auction benefiting the American Cancer Society.

A Sami Show- Arts & Crafts MarketMerry Mistletoe Marketplace Nov. 23-24 Come shop with us at our Merry Mistletoe Marketplace, our biggest show of the year! See what the buzz is all about as you browse the aisles full of home and garden dĂŠcor, jewelry, floral designs, woodcrafts, art, candles, gourmet foods, boutique clothing, fashionable accessories, unique gifts and more!

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Church Directory s

BELTON/MORGAN’S POINT RESORT Agape Christian Center 321 N. Penelope 254.939.

WORD Anchor of Hope Fellowship 5700 F.M. 439 254.721.6514 Beit Tefilla Messianic Congregation 101B Greenbriar 877.717.3030 Belton Christian Church 9425 W FM 436 254.939.1172

Belton Church of Christ 3003 N. Main 254.939.1816 Belton Church of God in Christ 1122 W. 2nd Ave. 254.939.1697 Belton First Assembly of God 500 S. IH-35 254.933.2803 Belton Nazarene Church 1701 Sparta Rd 254.939.3404 Belton Lighthouse 1001 NE Loop 121

254.654.7278 Bethel A.M.E. Church 401 S. Davis St. 254.939.6090 Calvary Baptist Church 700 S. Main St. 254.939.3403 Christ Bible Baptist Church 1590 Jack Rabbit Rd 254.939.9247 Christian Tabernacle Church Apostolic UPC 1010 S. Wall St. 254.939.3464 Christ the King Catholic Church 310 E. 24th Ave. 254.939.0806

Church of God of the First Born 2103 N. Beal St. 254.939.2433 Dominion Life Chapel 105 Green Briar St. 254.563.0472 Elm Grove Baptist Church 6388 Elm Grove Rd. 254.933.8127 Family Gospel Church 2210 Holland Rd. 254.721.0707 Fellowship Baptist Church

First United Methodist Church 205 E. 3rd Ave., Belton

Offering both modern & traditional services, and Sunday School.

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The Belt Buckle

The Belton Journal

Church Directory 2025 Morgan’s Point Rd 254.780.2388 First Baptist Church Belton 506 N. Main St. 254.933.3391 First Christian Church of Belton 100 Water Street 254.939.3483 First Mexican Baptist Church 703 S. Wall St. 254.939.6900 First Presbyterian Church, Belton 2500 Church St. 254.939.2115 First United Methodist Church 205 E. 3rd Ave. 254.939.5703 Free Pentecostal Church of Jesus 1111 Cacti Lane 254.933.8201 Freedom Bible Fellowship 308 W. Ave. D 254.933.3310

Immanuel Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 1215 S. Wall St. 254.939.0824 Keys Valley Baptist Church 4393 W. US Hwy. 190 254.939.1650 Lakeview Baptist Church 7717 N Hwy. 317 254.780.1884 Liberty Church 302 E. Central Ave. 254.933.7107 Liberty in Christ Church 2520 N. Main 254.939.3337 Miller Heights Baptist Church 1400 S. Wall St. 254.939.1835 Ministerios Vida 2020 S. IH-35 254.624.8015 Mt. Zion United Methodist Church 218 Alexander St. 254.939.5621

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Templo Vision de lo Alto 4357 Orchard Hill 254.563.1231 Trinity Full Gospel 810 East 2nd Ave. 254.939.7673 Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Bell County 1726 Morgan’s Point Rd. 254.778.8034 SALADO 3C Cowboy Fellowship 16258 Gooseneck Rd. 254.947.7211 First Baptist Church Salado 210 S. Main 254.947.5465 Grace Baptist Church 5798 FM 2484 254.947.5917 Presbyterian Church of Salado 105 Salado Dr. 254.947.8106

Holy Temple of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith, Inc. 519 S. Pearl St. 254.613.4591

New Life Fellowship 706 E. 4th. 254.939.8011

Salado First Baptist Church 210 S Main St. 254.947.5465

Nolan Valley Baptist Church 13206 W. FM 93 254.933.8300

Salado United Methodist Church 650 Royal St. 254.947.5482

Hope Community Church 507 Mitchell St. 254.933.8222

Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ 117 N. Birdwell St. 254.939.0822

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Chapel 881 Main St. 254.947.3160

Iglesia de Cristo 3303 N. Main 254.939.6910

Stillhouse Baptist Church 2378 FM 1670 254.939.6446

St. Stephen’s Catholic Church 601 FM 2268 254.947.8037

TEMPLE Christ Episcopal Church and School 300 N. Main St. 254.773.1657 Christian Life Church 4343 West FM 93 254.939.2626 Grace Comm. Primitive Baptist Church 3111 N. 3rd St 254.774.8192 Covenant Lutheran Church 4202 Hickory Rd. 254.733.7718 First Baptist Church Temple 8015 W. Adams Ave 254.773.6866 First Presbyterian Church, Temple 12 West French 254.773.3407 Foundation United Methodist Church 10701 W. Adams Ave 254.780.9673 Grace Baptist Church 740 Jayline Drive 254.773.1401 Grace Presbyterian Church 2401 S 57th 254.773.2134 Harvest Church 2501 General Bruce Dr. 254.780.3566 Immanuel Lutheran Church

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The Belton Journal

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The Belt Buckle

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Church Directory

New Hope Church of God 2005 W. Ave D., Suite D. 254.742.2181

Nazarene 5000 S. 31st 254.773.3744

St. Francis Episcopal Church & School 5001 Hickory 254.733.4255

The Redeemed Christian Church of God Salvation Center 803 S. 5th St. Suite 101 469-348-1475

St. Luke’s Catholic Church 2807 Oakdale Dr. 254.773.1561 St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1018 S 7th St. 254.773.4541

Unity Church of Temple 318 N. 2nd 254.770.0070 Vineyard Christian Fellowship 7425 W Adams Ave. 254.778.2802

Taylors Valley Baptist Church 2497 W. FM 93 254.939.0503

Vista Community Church 7051 Stonehollow 254.774.7992

Temple Bible Church 3205 Oakview Drive 254.778.3233

Wildwood Baptist Church 5195 Cedar Creek Rd. 254.773.3177

Temple First Church of the

SURROUNDING AREA

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First Assembly of God 11920 S. Lone Star Parkway • Moody 254.853.2394 Little River United Methodist Church 104 N Kings Tr. • Little River-Academy 254.982.4767 Mountain View Baptist Church 1400 E Fm 2410 Rd, • Harker Heights 254.939.9247 Soldiers of the Cross Cowboy Fellowship 14850 FM 439 • Nolanville 254.462.8890

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The Belt Buckle

The Belton Journal

Summer Fun & Entertainment s

Staff Report Finding summer and outdoor fun in Belton is easy. A town that is home to two lakes, a creek and bordered by a river, there is always plenty to do that involves water.

Belton Parks and Recreation encourages the following activities at Nolan Creek: kayaking, tubing and fishing.

Belton Lake and Stillhouse Hollow Lake offer outdoor fun to include: swimming, fishing, paddling, sailing, boating and diving.

The following organizations and businesses can help you plan your day at the lake: • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Lake and park information on park pavilion rentals and public boat ramps.

• Texas Parks & Wildlife –

Fishing, hunting, camping and boating.

• Scuba Divers Paradise – Diving lessons and equipment rental.

• Lake Belton Yacht Club – Sailing lessons and races.

• Frank’s Marina – Fishing, bait and slip rentals.

• Waterside Sports – Kayak and paddleboard rentals.

Belton Lake Outdoor Recreational Area (BLORA) is a military recreational area with many amenities available to civilians as well as the military population.

Popular attractions at BLORA include; swimming, camping (tent, R.V. and cottages), boating, fishing, mountain biking, paintball course and waterslides.

The City of Belton’s splash pads will be open from May 29 through Sept. 4 this summer providing a

safe and free way to cool off.

Belton Parks and Recreation has four trails for exercising and exploring throughout Belton. The length of each trail is: Nolan Creek Hike and Bike Trail: 1.26 Miles; Heritage Park Trail: 0.68 Miles; Chisholm Trail Park: 0.79 Miles; Miller Heights Park: 0.59 Miles.

Numerous events this summer that will be hosted by Belton Parks and Recreation, including Movie in the Park, Summerfest and a celebration of National Parks and Rec Month.

Summer Fun Waterpark is a local amusement park that offers a chance to cool off and have fun playing on their many features to include waterslides and a lazy river.

Central Texas Astronomical Society has stargazing parties at

Overlook Park Stillhouse Hollow Lake in Belton, weather permitting. Dates vary based on the lunar cycle, so check www.centexastronomy.org for event listings.

The city of Belton and many local businesses and organizations host races throughout the year for fun and competition. Many running and cycling clubs are also available for those that would like to compete or for fellowship. TriCity Bicycles and Belton Outdoor Adventure Group have active clubs in the Belton community.

Information about their rides and racing can be found through the Tri-City and Gritty Teeth Racing Facebook pages. Meanwhile, the Bell County Trail Alliance Organization, run by Tri-City’s owner, hosts trail days once a month to clean and maintain area trails.

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1402 Waco Rd. Belton, TX 76573 Located next to Summer Fun Water Park Mon-Sat 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Sun 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.

The Belton Journal

The Belt Buckle

57

-New Location-

Thomas Kinkade Stagecoach Gallery 171 S. Main • Salado, TX • 254-947-3727

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK AND LATE ON WEEKENDS • WWW.STAGECOACHGALLERIES.COM

Morning Light Lake Days spent at a special hideaway on the lake are always filled with special memories – watching the sun slide up over the horizon, stretching lazy fingers of light to illuminate the clouds and, in turn, the tranquil water. In Morning Light Lake, the scene is set for that magical moment when the day is new and bright with possibility. Surrounded by the beauty of the Great Outdoors – mountains soaring in the distance, a cozy cabin nearby and a fishing boat waiting at the dock – everything feels right with the world.

Invisions Day Spa offers an award-winning oasis in Central Texas, serving Temple, Belton, Killeen, and surrounding areas. Enjoy a luxurious setting where you can relax your body, renew your spirit, and release your mind! Our wonderful staff is waiting to pamper you with personalized service customized to meet each individual need! We look forward to seeing you!

Our specialties include Gatherings/Parties/Showers Foot/Hand Treatments Massage Therapy Acupuncture Skin Care Lashes Waxing

3411 Market Loop Temple, TX 76502 (254) 773-2662 Behind Long John Silvers

Oak Village Shopping Center 2150 N. Main Street Belton, TX 76513 (254) 598-1101

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Friday Night Open Gym at both locations! Starting at 6:30 Learn: Jumps, Tumbling, Stunting, Proper Stretching, Conditioning 17,000 Square Foot Elite Training Centers Birthday Parties

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Belton

Dossman Funeral Home

We design & fabricate in our own workroom.

“In Service to our fellow man...”

Custom Draperies

by Lydia

2525 N. Main • Belton • 933-2525 www.dossmanfh.com

Custom Draperies • Fabrics • Blinds • Shutters In-Home Service 1305 N. Main • Belton

939-1070

Est. 1972