Mexia Chamber Guide 2022

Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce

A Publication of The Mexia News

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Heart of the Texas Triangle

First Baptist Church celebrates 150 years

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Winter 2022 Volume 9 No. 1

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WE THANK ALL OF OUR LAW ENFORCEMENT IN LIMESTONE COUNTY AND BEYOND Chamber of Commerce February is American Heart Month. You can take charge of your heart health by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and not smoking. Make it a point to know your: ▪ Blood pressure numbers ▪ Family heart health history ▪ Cholesterol numbers Enhanced cleaning, mask requirements and social distancing to help keep you safe.

How Healthy is Your Heart?

Take our free heart health assessment at ParkviewRegional.com/Heart

Count on us to help you know your heart.

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Happy New Year - Welcome 2022 On behalf of the Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce, we hope you all had a fabulous holiday season with your family and friends, and we wish you much health and happiness in 2022!

Many exciting things are on the horizon at the Chamber. Of course, we look forward to the beautiful springtime in Central Texas, the bluebonnets and wildflowers, and new things that spring always brings. We are excited to continue to work with our members, gain new members, and help the Mexia area to grow and continue to be a great place to live, work and raise a family. We have some new plans for things for the future and we look forward to sharing them with you. If you aren’t already, we hope you will follow the Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook as that is where a lot of our information is posted. Our website is being updated and information is being posted there too.

There are a number of civic organizations to be involved with here in

Mexia, and if you are new to the area, or even if you’ve been here a while, there are plenty of ways for you to get involved, join organizations and volunteer.

The more involved people are in our community, the more our community grows. Our community appreciates your involvement and support.

There are always frequent reminders to shop local and shop small during the holidays, especially in conjunction with “shop small Saturday” but we want to remind you that the shopping local season never ends. Shopping local and shopping small is so important to help your local business owners grow and support their families, and it is an ever-important way to help sustain your community economically. We hope you will continue to shop (and eat) local– all year round. And share with your local businesses what you appreciate about them and recommend them to others.

That’s a huge compliment for them, and they appreciate it! The Chamber

Learn more about the

Heart of Texas at our website:

www.mexiachamber.com & on our Facebook page!

appreciates it too.

We look forward to seeing you at local and upcoming Chamber events. If you have feedback for the Chamber, we’d love to hear from you. Until then, we’ll keep working for you to better our community and we look forward to seeing you somewhere soon.

Happy Spring, y’all!

Area Chamber of Commerce

Convention and Visitors Bureau

Traci Lafoy

Executive Director Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce P O Box 352 * 214 N. Sherman, Suite 2 Mexia, TX 76667 • 254-562-5569 director@mexiachamber.com www.mexiachamber.com

The Mexia News This Magazine is a publication of The Mexia News in conjunction with the Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights Reserved.

For advertising - call 254-562-2868 PUBLISHER/MANAGING EDITOR: Richard Nelson ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Jennifer Bynum GRAPHIC DESIGN/PRODUCTION: Jennifer Paul FRONT COVER PHOTO: The Mexia News archives -FBC, Mexia

The Mexia Chamber would also like to recognize other new members: Renaissance Systems Inc (RSI) in Groesbeck, Fleming Land Services, Glamour in the Glades, Cactus Jack’s/WB Chuckwagon all of whom ribbon cuttings will be in the next magazine.

We are thankful for each and every one of our members!

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2022 Hopes & Dreams

Cooking Corner Coffee Break Cake From Pat Buchanan Mix Together: - 1 box yellow cake mix - 1 cup sugar - ½ cup salad oil - 3 eggs - 1 cup (small carton) sour cream Pour ½ to 2/3 batter in Bundt pan.

Make a mixture of: - 2 tablespoons cinnamon - 3 tablespoons sugar - Pecans (optional) Pour this over mixture in pan and pour remaining mixture over this and bake at 375 for about 45 minutes. *try not to open the door while cooking Doesn’t need frosting - Just good & chewy. Enjoy!

This recipe is from long-time former Mexia resident, Pat Buchanan Mulloy. Ms. Pat taught Sunday School and was a faithful member of many years to Calvary Baptist Church, mom to Ken Buchanan. Ms. Pat was a very special lady, and she is missed by many. She gave this recipe to me in 1987. I hope you will enjoy it as you remember her and others who have gone on before us.

By Jennifer Pick First United Methodist Church, Mexia This is the season of beginnings and beginnings again. When we flip the calendar over to the untried new year, it is full of possibility and of uncertain journeys and traveling by faith and not by sight. All it takes is a thimblefull of light, moving its way through our insecurities and weaving a thread of courage, sending sparks in the darkness… the firefly flickers of God’s grace are enough to help us embrace the unknown! 2021 has been a difficult year with all of the ups and downs that a year can bring on top of a global pandemic. As we slowly emerge, we look for a brighter horizon in 2022.

Let us stop for a moment before we venture forth further into 2022 in order for us to declare our hopes and dreams, cast off our burdens and sorrows. This declaration gives us strength for the rest of the journey with Christ as a faithful companion, spurring us on into a new year. The beginning of a new year is a good time to get out the roadmaps of life. We can gain wisdom by looking at the places our hearts have travelled over the past year. As we look back over the journey, it’s helpful to identify the people and places that blessed us,

Brown Oil & Gas 901 S. Belknap • Mexia, Texas 76667 254-562-2818 • 254-562-3654 ( Fax)

affirmed us, enlivened us and enriched us. We also need to reflect on the situations that challenged us, tested us, discouraged us, or even tried to destroy us. Each new year is also a time to clear our vision, to take stock of our resources, and to refresh our dreams as we set out once more on the journey that is ours.

Christ calls us, instructs us, entices us, commands us to rise up, to leap out of those places where we live in spiritual dimness. Arise! Shine! We are invited to greet and welcome the light. To journey together toward the light, not minding the quirks of those around us and setbacks because our light shines more brightly when we make the journey with others. Like most trips, we can’t always carry everything that we’ve packed into the new year alone.

So what is it that your heart is truly seeking today? And where is it that God calling you to go this year in faith?

What must you leave behind in order to truly set out on the road once more?

Where will you shine?

Jennifer Clendening Franchisee

916 E. Milam • Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3828 • 254-562-2385 (Fax)

joliver@hrblock.com

AVAILABLE YEAR ROUND • HRBLOCK.COM

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THANK YOU!

Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce makes “Thank You” Basket deliveries to local businesses. The card in each says, “Thank you for making Mexia a great place. We appreciate your membership.”

Thank you basket given to Dr. Tom W. Fox, DDS., and staff.

Home • Life • Business Auto • Health • Bonds Medicare Supplements

We will keep Marty Cargile you covered! 254.562.3894

254.562.9225 (Fax) marty@mexia1.com

Mexia Insurance Services

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THE SHAVE CAVE

Back Row: Customer, Brittney Wood, Sarah Crider, Blake Martinez. Front Row: Keath Huff, Traci LaFoy, Sherri Hall, Ariel Minchew, ShienDee Pullman, Trudy Cain, Alma Santos, Rainee Measles, Cheryl Wilson, Tara Waggener, Alexis Avila , Autumn Carroll, Niki Amick, Cheryl Hancock, JoAnna Shivers, Michael Jones

BABY BLING BOSS

Just a handful of folks wishing Sherrie and her family much success on the NEW business in town. Congratulations on your Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting, Big Baby Bling Boss!!

BOYD’S 254 TRANSPORTATION INC. cutting on July 3, 2021 for Boyd’s 254 Transportation.

The Mexia Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-

YOUR CHAMBER AMBASSADORS AT WORK

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THE GENERAL STORE MSSLC

Open Monday – Saturday from 8 AM-5 PM. They carry house decorations, custom furniture to order, and custom T-Shirts to order. Come see them, you’ll be glad you did!

- 200 E. Rusk • Mexia TX • 254-472-0893

J.L.RIDDLE BUILDING

Ribbon cutting at the J.L.Riddle Building on Tuesday November 18th. Great local event center. Need a place for your event? Check them out. This is a beautiful building that has been restored and is an amazing space for any occasion.

MSSLC VOLUNTEER COUNCIL

The Volunteer Council of the Mexia State Supported Living Center is now an official member of the Mexia Chamber of Commerce. Attending the ribbon cutter are Brent Locke, left, John Doscher, Traci LaFoy, Melinda Gentry, Valerie Hathaway, Deborah Burgess, Debbie Allen, Venterlene McIlreen,Tony Cockrell, Shirley Thorton and JoAnna Shivers.

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First Baptist Church celebrates 150 Anniversary th

The First Baptist Church of Mexia celebrated its 150th year on Jan. 8, 2022. It is one of the oldest churches in Mexia and it is almost as old as the town itself.

As the new year of 1872 dawned with hope of prosperity ahead, the town of Mexia was less than four months old. It was established as the railroad made its slow way northward. The historic town of Springfield, seven miles south, had been missed by the railroad. It was the county seat, but it wasn’t to be for long.

An exodus of Springfield began. Merchants moved their businesses to the new town on the railroad.

Other citizens followed. Even the Masonic Lodge moved to Mexia. Little was left of Springfield. Later the courthouse moved to Groesbeck, which was nearer the county’s geographical center than Mexia.

Springfield could have been called a Baptist town because Z. N. Morrell had organized a missionary Baptist church in the community in February 1846, just 10 years after the massacre at Fort Parker on the Navasota River. Among the Springfield residents who helped to organize the new town of Mexia were numerous Baptists.

There was no doubt saloons and gambling halls were in Mexia during the first four months of its existence, but no churches. As they built their homes and stores, the Baptists started thinking about a church. Then on Jan. 14, 1872, the Rev. W. Henry Parks and 15 men and women met in the Masonic Lodge hall.

The Rev. W. Henry Parks was elected the first pastor.

Services of the new First Baptist Church were held twice a month in the Masonic Lodge.

Membership continued to grow and soon they needed to expand. They purchased a lot of land on the northwest corner of Canton and Palestine

and a small frame house of worship was constructed.

On May 22, 1887, Melvin Herring offered a resolution in regard to the building of a larger meeting house to meet the needs of a growing church.

A committee was formed. The committee was authorized to sell the current building and lot. The Rev. B. B. Williams was pastor at the time but resigned on Sept. 4. The Rev. W. I. Feazell was named pastor on Nov. 6.

On June 28, 1887 the church purchased the lot at the corner of Carthage and Bonham from the city of Mexia for $75. Construction began at once and was completed

by December. The dedication ceremony was held Dec. 18, 1887. The sermon was delivered by a Rev. A. J. Holt of Dallas at the Sunday evening service. The Rev. Holt raised $100 for missions.

Thirteen years later the church purchased the residence across the street to the north for the pastor and his family. In 1906 the church building was greatly enlarged, making a large auditorium, six classrooms and a pastor’s study. It took about a year to build the building. It was beautiful with a large auditorium, 32 classrooms and pastor’s study. The two-story building took about a year to complete. No official date is documented in the church records.

One long remembered date in the life of the First Baptist Church came on May 24, 1924 when $40,000 was raised in two services to completely wipe out the debt on the new church building. The occasion was brought about by the offer of the late Mr. and Mrs. J. K. Hughes who were prominent citizens but not members of the church. They agreed to donate a large portion

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First Baptist Church - 1962

if the church would raise the remainder. The working force of the church spent the previous week in prayer and work and success crowned their efforts.

The pastor’s home in 1924, which was damaged by fire four years earlier, was rebuilt and a home was built on the adjoining lot for the educational director. Oil was discovered in Mexia about the same time of the 1920 fire and the membership had a rapid growth during the following years.

The congregation was growing and they had a big beautiful church, then tragedy struck again. It was on a wintery January night in 1930 that a spark ignited and before morning the building was completely destroyed.

This was the second time in 10 years the congregation had no place to worship.

For more than a year the congregation met in the town’s auditorium. Subsequently, the pastor at the time, J. H. Cozad, resigned but the members continued the work on a new building. It was a large three-story building for both beauty and service. The church was completed in March 1931.

Growth continued and by 1922 the church had a graded Sunday school with more than 800 enrolled and an average attendance of 482. A high attendance of 687 was reached Easter Sunday in 1933.

In 1954 a larger one-story home was built on lots west of the church building to serve as a parsonage. Property west of the church was used for educational space for a time. In 1965 these lots were cleared and the present complex was built with a sanctuary, chapel and offices.

The dedication was on Aug. 15, 1965.

In 1971 additional property was purchased and used for a parking lot. In 1979 a major organ expansion was completed, given in memory of Elvis and Virginia Hall by the Fred Mitchell family with a surface principal chorus and antiphonal added in 1984.

In 1980, under the leadership of Ed Spivey and through the efforts of the “Together We Build” campaign, finances to remodel the first and second floor of the educational building were raised as members

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First Baptist Church - 2022

were asked to commit to giving over a three-year period.

The third floor was completed in 1986-87 under the pastorate of the Rev. Mack Mathis.

The next addition to the church was in 2000 with the building of the $1.2 million Christian Life Center under the leadership of the Rev. Marcus Sheffield and a “United We Build” program. The building includes a gym and retractable basketball hoops, fitness center, walking track, a full-service commercial kitchen and seating for 500 people. The center is popular for church and community activities.

The worship center was completely remodeled in 2003, replacing pews, floor coverings and lighting.

A children’s playground was added in 2016 by the Reed families in memory of their parents, Valdon and Anna Ruth Reed.

Pastors serving this church, beginning 100 years ago, include Henry Parks, John H. Rowland, B. B. Williams, W. T. Feazell, D. W. Duke, T. W. Wright, E. P. Aldridge, W. B. Friley, George W. Riley, B. H. Carroll Jr., J. Stuart Pierce, Warren Bates, J. Stuart Pierce (second pastorate), L. D. Bass, B. W. Vining, C. R. Taylor, C. T. New, Joe Jeffers, John A. Held, J. H. Cozad, W. B. Pearce, Grady W. Metcalf, E. D. Dunlap, Robert L. Dobson, W. E. Harrell, D. A. Bryant, E. S. Hutcherson, Edwin J. Mays, Gordon Bays, Holland Smith, Joe C. Eakin III, Ed Spivey and Mack Mathis.

Today the church is led by Marcus Sheffield, the senior pastor. Curt Pool is the minister of worship. Nic Collins is the minister of youth and education. Ann Talley is the church secretary who has been employed at First Baptist Church since 1972.

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BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

The side of the fellowship hall at First Baptist Church - 2022

The Chamber would like to recognize Blair-Stubbs Inc. as our Business of the Month. Family caring for family, and a vital part of our community for many, many years. Thank you for all that you do, everyday! You are appreciated

First Baptist Church - 1922 (l-r) T.P. Hutcherson, Mr. Buckner, T.E. Day, Bro. & Mrs. C.T. Tew, Mrs. George Perkins, Mrs. Charlie Stevens, Mrs. Mattie Bennett (little girl - Steven’s great-granddaughter)

FINANCING AVAILABLE Installation – Sales – Service Residential and Commercial Units Preventative Maintenance Programs Accept Major Credit/Debit Cards

LOW MONTHLY PAYMENTS FOR 12 MONTHS NO INTEREST

254-765-3203

SERVING THE SURROUNDING AREAS FOR 64 YEARS Interior of the Mexia First Baptist Church, Second Floor - 1922

License # TACLB016973E www.worthamac.com

622 South 3rd Street Wortham, TX 76693

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MEXIA HIGH SCHO

Mexia High School students hosted a of November for “Food For Families” donated 12,698 individual food items

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CHOOL GIVES BACK

hosted a food drive during the month Families” benefiting Caritas. Students od items weighing over 9,365 pounds.

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Chamber Directory AGRICULTURE

CHURCHES

192 LCR 435 Mexia, TX 76667 254-716-6229

519 S. McKinney Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2269

Fleming Land Services

Force Logistics, LLC

1000 FM 3119 Mexia, TX 76667 254-424-1950 www.FORCELOGISTICSLLC.com

Golden Roots Trees LLC Dollar in the Hole Ranch 1098 FM 2838 Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-9877

Lightsey Farms 2033 FM 1365 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-6913

AUTOMOTIVE

Alan’s Tire and Service 819 W. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9399

Boyd’s 254 Transportation 1230 N. MLK Hwy Mexia, TX 76667 254-275-9244

Cain’s Car Wash 511 North Bailey Mexia TX 76667 254-562-9533

Classic Paint and Body 802 S McKinney Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9360

Day Boys Shop

1402 Hwy 84 West Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-0000

Dick Scott Ford 401 N. Sherman Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3864

Mike Terry Auto Group 1100 E Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2846

Triple L Tire

900 S. Hwy 14 Mexia, TX 76667 254-640-2481

BAKERY

Jerri’s Cakes & Treats 810 LCR 463 Mexia TX 76667 254-366-7607

Calvary Baptist Church

First Baptist Church 500 E. Carthage Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5576

Fist United Methodist Church 203 N Canton Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5567

Iglesia Pentecostal Camino Church 111 E. Palestine Mexia, TX 76667 254-424-7191

Mexia First Assembly 1100 N. Ross Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9216

CIVIC GROUP

VFW Lancaser Post 4694 317 S MLK/Hwy 14 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9270

COMMUNICATIONS Vyve Communications 514 W. Tyler Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2872

Computer Services McKeand Consulting, LLC 6565 FM 39N Mexia TX 76667 254-472-9997

Gibbs Mexia Library

305 E. Rusk305 E. Rusk Mexia TX 76667 254-562-3231

KNES Radio – Texas 99 627 W. Commerce Fairfield, TX 903-389-5637

Limestone Publishing The Mexia News 214 N Railroad Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2868

Renaissance Systems, Inc 222 W. Navasota St Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-230-4144 Utilize IT 1220 Hinchliffe Rd Mexia, TX 76667 254-218-5408

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DISTRIBUTORS

Halo Branded Solutions 103 E. Commerce Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-6950

Flatt Stationers 205 N. McKinney Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5123

EDUCATION Mexia ISD

616 N. Red River Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-4042 Navarro College 901 North MLK/Hwy 14 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3848

ENERGY

Brown Oil and Gas 901 S. Belknap Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2818

Green Mountain Energy - NRG 2745 Dallas Parkway, Ste 200 Plano, TX 75093 www.greenmountainenergy.com 713-817-3592

Nelson Propane

1442 North MLK/Hwy 14 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3825

Oncor Electric Delivery 220 W. Walnut Hillsboro, TX 76645

EVENT CENTER J.I. Riddle Building

Farmers State Bank 604 W. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9494

Incommons Bank 301 E. Commerce Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3821

Richard L Sadler, CPA 400 N. McKinney Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3460

FOOD TRUCK

Karsan’s Kona Ice P O Box 215 Buffalo, TX 75831 903-388-6649

Cactus Jack’s WB Chuckwagon 1605 N MLK Jr Hwy Mexia, TX 76667 254-237-1008

GOVERNMENT

Limestone County Sheriffs Office Murray Agnew Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-3278

Mexia EDC

214 N. Sherman Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-7900 www.mexiaedc.com

Mexia SSLC Volunteer Council P O Box 1132 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-1300

Voices for Children, CASA of Brazos County

307 E. Commerce Mexia, TX 76667 903-390-8392

115 N. Main Bryan, TX 77803 979-822-9700

FINANCIAL

City of Mexia

Beene Wealth Management Group 400 Austin Ave, Ste 200 Waco, TX 76703 254-755-6575

Centex Citizen Credit Union 1404 E Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9296

101 S. McKinney Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-4131

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

Just Relax Wellness Center 202 E. Commerce Mexia, TX 76667 254-301-4426

Citizen’s State Bank

Sassy Sisters Boutique Salon and Spa

Citizen’s State Bank

Serenity Spa/Madison’s Loft

Edward Jones Investments

The Shave Cave

722 Main Teague, TX 75860 254-739-0500

409 S. Ellis Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-3054 505 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5323

107 N. Sherman Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2222 508 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-0820 101 N. Sherman Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-5001

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Mexia Insurance 811 E Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3894

ReMax Premier Properties Womack Insurance 205 E Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2884

LODGING AND TRAVEL Best Western Limestone Inn & Suites 1314 E Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-0200

Comfort Inn

820 W Milam St. Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-0005

Forrest Place B & B 500 E Palestine Mexia, TX 76667 254-640-0055

Old Fort Parker Historic Site 866 Park Road 35 Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-5253

Fort Parker State Park 3147 N. Hwy 14 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5751

MANUFACTURING Carry-On Trailer

931 Industrial Blvd Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9024

Rogers Manufacturing 911 Industrial Blvd Mexia, TX 254-255-0696 Swarco Reflex Inc 900 N. Denton Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9879

MEDICAL AND DENTAL Cen-Tex ARC

Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2891

Community Healthcare of Texas/ Providence Hospice 312 S. Hwy 14 Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-0779

Gonzalez Family Dentistry 300 N. Sherman Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5347

Interim Health Care 2420 Wycon Drive Waco TX 76712 254-741-6570

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Manor Health Care Residence

Hughes Dillard

Countryside Café

Mexia Chiropractic

Law Office of Daniel Burkeen

Farm House Restaurant

Mexia LTC

Melinda Gentry

Jim’s Krispy Chicken

Mexia Vision Services

Reed and Reed, LLC

Joe Friday’s Diner

Parkview Regional Hospital

REAL ESTATE

McDonald’s of Mexia

831 Tehuacana Highway Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3867 722 E. Commerce Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2112 601 N. Terrace Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5400 501 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3883 600 S. Bonham Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5332

Reliant at Home/Virginia Hospice 309 Main St. Teague TX 75860 254-739-5011

Skilled Care of Mexia 501 E. Sumpter Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-0630

Tejas Urgent Care 311 E Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2500

Texas Home Health Group

8300 Central Park Drive, Ste A Waco, TX 254-755-6179

Tom W. Fox Jr. DDS 110 N. Bonham Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2881

PET SERVICES

Bennett Veterinary Hospital 1338 Hwy 171 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-6533

Pawz & Clawz

100 E. Commerce Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-6950 304 E. Commerce, Ste 600 Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-5002 514 Willow Drive Mexia, TX 76667 325-656-1648

201 N. McKinney Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5547

Heritage Real Estate 205 N. McKinney Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-7899

Hometown Realty 811 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3893

Realty Plus

1006 E Milam St Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2121

ReMax Premier Properties Womack Insurance 205 E Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2884

Story Real Estate 714 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-6617

RECREATIONAL

Freestone Raceway Park 147 PR 994 Wortham TX 713-962-3386

Old Fort Parker Historic Site 866 Park Road 35 Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-5253

500 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-5070

1401 E. Milam Street Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-0512 312 E Milam St. Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5035 601 N Hwy 14 Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-5105 903 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5035

Tacos Jalisco

301 E. Palestine Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-5155

RETAIL/SHOPPING

Big Baby Bling Boss, LLC 200 N. Paris St. Mexia, TX 76667 903-390-6121

Bi-Stone Building Supply 910 E Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9341

Blackcat Couture/Mexia Florist 200 E Commerce Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5555

Blossom’s Florist & Garden Center 706 W. Palestine Mexia, TX 76667 469-435-1549

Cactus Jack’s WB Chuckwagon 1605 N MLK Jr Hwy Mexia, TX 76667 254-237-1008

The Trinity Institute

Clancy & Co/ Old Tin Roof Shoppes

Fort Parker State Park

Flatt Stationers

115 E Commerce Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-7427

Hughes City Park

Glamour in the Glades

PROFESSIONAL

RESTAURANT

209 E. Palestine Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-0700

602 N. Paris Mexia, TX 254-562-5655

1111 W Hwy 171 Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-5122

Shaggy Chic

103 E. Main Mexia, TX 76667 254-722-7465

PHOTOGRAPHY Photo Trappings

Amy Ward, Attorney

Westminster Ave Tehuacana, TX 76686 254-395-4444 3147 N. Hwy 14 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5751

Bonham and Tyler St Mexia, TX 76667

Coffee Cabaret

1326 E. Palestine Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-0667 205 N. McKinney Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5123 344 LCR 466 Mexia, TX 76667 254-625-0995

H-E-B

701 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5123

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Jackson’s True Value

Sears Hometown Store

407 E. Commerce Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3112

909 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9555

Junkin Jo’s Antiuqes & Boutiques 325 E Loop 255 Teague, TX 75860

Kera’s Corner

Serenity Spa/Madison’s Loft 508 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-0820

Shabby Bling

101 E. Main Mexia, TX 76667 903-388--3992

108 N. Sherman Mexia, TX 76667 903-390-9316

Merle Norman

Small Town Tees

309 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2582

207 E Main Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-6966

Old Tin Barn

Southern Grace

1339 E Milam St. Mexia, TX 76667 903-390-0608

501 S. Ellis Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-2703

Rusty’s boot & Jeans

The General Store

1349 E Milam St, Mexia, TX 76667 (254) 562-7767

Sassy Sisters Boutique, Salon and Spa 107 N. Sherman Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2222

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200 E. Rusk Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-0893

The Shave Cave 101 N. Sherman Mexia, TX 76667 254-472-5001

Family Owned.

Texas Based.

Desktop delivery from people you know

Since 1938

Office Supplies • Office Equipment Office Furniture • School Supplies “Home of the Flatt Pack”

Copy Services • Fax Services UPS Drop-Off

Buy online - shop.flattstationers.com Daily delivery to Tri-County Area shop.flattstationers.com

205. N. McKinney, Mexia •254-562-3843

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SAND AND GRAVEL

STORAGE

4546 N. Hwy 14 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-6252

246 N. MLK Jr. Hwy Mexia, TX 76667 254-315-3565

Allen and Shivers Excavation

SERVICES

Blair Stubbs Funeral Home 605 S. McKinney Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-2131

Corley Porter Funeral Home 208 N Canton Mexia TX 76667 254-562-2887

George Fitch Signs 910 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9341

Ideal Self Storage

Sumpter Street Storage 1008 Sumpter Street Mexia, TX 76667 254-625-3364

Quality Storage

1604-B N MLK/Hwy 14 Mexia TX 76667 254-562-0130

UTILITIES

Atmos Energy

6464 Hwy 19 South Athens, TX 75751 888-286-6700

Jones Funeral Service

Bi-stone Municipal Water Supply

Mexia Foundation

Republic Services

Mexia Pest Control

City of Mexia Water Dept

931 S Hwy 171 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-6422 672 FM 1633 Mexia, TX 76667 254-981-3742 608 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-6565

343 LCR Whiterock Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5922 3054 LCR 460 Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-3889

101 S. McKinney Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-4131

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SERVICES OFFERED:

BEHAVORIAL HEALTH PROGRAM Outpatient Ext. 2200

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RADIOLOGY

SPECIALTY CLINICS Ext. 2320, 5034 - Diagnostic X-Ray and Cat Scan LABRATORY - Wound Care Ext, 2848 - Bone Density Testing Ext. 2240, 5006 - CHF Clinic Ext. 5034, 2320 - General and Vascular Ultrasounds - Gastroenterology PHYSICAL THERAPY - Echocardiogram - Cardiology Ext.PROGRAM 2300, 5035 GASTROENTEROLOGY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH - Mobile MRI - Occupational Therapy - Dermatology UrologyMonday, Wednesday, Friday CHIROPRACTOR (254) 729-2014 Hanu Ancha, M.D. (254) 729-3281 ext. 5034 - Speech/Language Therapy -RADIOLOGY Nuclear Medicine - Scopes Steven Huffman, DC,(254) 729-4322 BEHAVORIAL Greg Blaisdell, MD P.E.T.S. Psychiatrist HEALTH PROGRAM - LMC 625 McClintic Drive, Groesbeck (254) 729-4330 -SPECIALTY IV Therapy CLINICS JoshuaOutpatient Warren, MD, Adult Ext. and Child2200 Psychiatrist CARDIOLOGIST (254) 399-5400 Ex. 2251, 5008 SLEEP2320, MEDICINE Chris Matlock, MD, Ext. 5034 - Waco Surgical Group THERAPY -Tuesday Diagnostic X-Ray and Cat Scan SLEEP MEDICINE Sherwin Attai, MD, SecondRESPIRATORY ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON ThursdaysExt, (254)2848 537-6160 LABRATORY - Wound Care Ext. 2232, DIETITIAN 729-3281 ext. 2148 2220 Veronica Rosalez, NP, fourth- Tuesday Ext. 2220, 5004 Bone Density Testing Jeffrey Blasick, D.O., (254) 224-8062 Ext.(254) 2240, 5006 CHF Clinic Ext. 5034, 2320 - Inpatient Rehab Meradith- Sleep Stein, RD Studies EveryRehab FridayUltrasounds except the fourth Friday -SWINGBED -Cardiopulmanary - General and Vascular CARDIOLOGIST J. Phillip Myatt, M.D., (254) 235-9355 RADIOLOGY - Home Sleep Studies (Watch Pat) BEHAVORIAL HEALTH PROGRAM Gastroenterology Ext. 2320, 5034 PHYSICAL THERAPY PODIATRIST Tyler Kearney,-Stress DPM, (979)Tests 776-6060 Third Thursday, Fourth Wednesday - Echocardiogram CLINICS (800) 793-9106 SPECIALTY Outpatient Ext. 2200 - Cardiology Ex. 2251,NEUROSURGEON 5008 Ext. 2300, 5035 SPECIALTY CLINIC (254) 728-3281 Ext. 2320 - Mobile MRI Jonathan Friedman, M.D. - Occupational Therapy - Dermatology Urology Ext. 2320, 5034 DERMATOLOGIST (254) 537-1265 PODIATRIST Eduardo Orihuela, DPM, (979) 776-6060 - Diagnostic X-Ray and Cat Scan - Speech/Language Therapy Nuclear Medicine Scopes LABRATORY First, Third and LMC CHF CLINIC (254) 729-3281 Ext. 2316 James Mason, MD, Second Monday Care Ext, 2848 Fifth Wednesdays NEUROSURGEON Steven Zielinski, MD,- Wound (254) 732-3987 - LMC P.E.T.S. - Bone Density Testing - IV Therapy Ext. 2240, 5006 - CHF Clinic Ext.ENT5034, 2320Thomas A. Salzer, M.D., (979) 764-3090 & ALLERGY - Waco Surgical Group ONCOLOGIST/HEMATOLOGIST LMC WOUND CAREMEDICINE CLINIC (254) 729-4329 UROLOGIST (254) 741-6113 RESPIRATORY THERAPY SLEEP - General and Vascular Ultrasounds Gastroenterology Second and Fourth Mondays First5004 Wednesday Tom Harris, MD, (254) -399-0741 PHYSICAL THERAPY Chelsea Yerger, FNP-CExt. - (254)2232, 729-32812220 ext. 2381 Stephen Stimson, MD, Third Tuesday Ext. 2220, Echocardiogram - Sleep Studies Ext. 2300, 5035 SWINGBED - Inpatient Rehab - Cardiology -Cardiopulmanary Rehab - Home Sleep Studies (Watch Pat) Mobile MRI 2320, 5034 - Occupational Therapy - DermatologyExt. Urology -Stress Tests Ex. 2251, 5008

SERVICES OFFERED:

MEDICAL ARTS BUILDING

SERVICES OFFERED:

- Speech/Language Therapy - LMC P.E.T.S.

- Nuclear Medicine

SLEEP MEDICINE Ext. 2232, 2220 - Sleep Studies - Home Sleep Studies (Watch Pat)

RESPIRATORY THERAPY Ext. 2220, 5004 -Cardiopulmanary Rehab -Stress Tests

- Scopes - IV Therapy - Waco Surgical Group SWINGBED - Inpatient Rehab Ext. 2320, 5034

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URGENT CARE WITH YOU IN MIND!

We are here for you and your family!

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY! (254) 562-2500

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During the last Health Tip, the death toll for Covid-19 was 700,000 lives lost. Now, we are approaching 800,000. We have to wait on Johns Hopkins official count from death certificates to tally the number. Currently, we are officially 759,127 dead.

Wonder how high it will go?

The thing that is concerning is the Vaccination Mandate.

If you work with Medicare or Medicaid, you have until January 4, 2022, to have at least started your vaccine immunizations. There is a tremendous percentage of health care workers willing to lose their jobs for a strong personal belief in not injecting a vaccine into their bodies.

Under Health Care it is not just the nurses. It also involves IT, HR, ER, X-ray, maintenance, housekeeping, EMS, basically all of the support staff, and yes, doctors too. We have a shortage of all fields of medicine now, so what is going to happen come January 4, 2022?

- Dr. Jerry W. Simmons, MD

Big Smiles All Around

Gentle and friendly dental care for the whole family.

MON - FRI 8AM - 7PM SATURDAY 8AM - 6PM SUNDAY 12PM - 6PM

311 E. MILAM ST. MEXIA, TX. 76667 We accept most Commercial Insurance/Medicaid/ Medicare/Tricare

Gonzalez Family Dentistry Nathan T. Gonzalez, DDS • Robin L. Cholopisa, DDS

300 N. Sherman, Mexia

254-562-5347

Our patients’ smiles say it all!

Friendly & Welcoming Staff

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Mr. & Mrs. Mistletoe 2021 Upon completing his business management degree at Baylor University in December 1971 Don Corbitt accepted a job offer as a buyer for Berry Barnett Grocery Company in Mexia. Mr. and Mrs. Mistletoe, Don and de Lou Corbitt at that time had only been married for 5 months. de Lou had been teaching second grade in Centerville for a year.

In a very short time, Don and de Lou knew that Mexia was where they wanted to live and raise a family; therfore, de Lou quickly found a teaching position in Mexia as the fifth grade reading specialist at Mexia Junior High. A few years later she taught kindergarten. While teaching kindergarten, she completed a Masters degree in education with emphasis on early childhood and Special Education at Sam Houston State University.

Don enjoyed ten years as the Berry Barnett buyer, but his training and education was drawing him toward the management field. This career change was the beginning of the local Double D Food and Fuel convenience store chain. This chain of stores began in Groesbeck and Thornton, but in 28 years this company grew to stores also in Kosse, Marlin, Mart and two locations in Mexia. Don also became partners in a new convenience store in Waco, near the Texas home of then President George Bush. The Secret Service agents frequented the location. When Corbitt asked the agent if President Bush might come in with them, the answer was, “No, too many windows!”

During this time the entrepreneur also opened Subway sandwich shops in Groesbeck, Marlin, Waco and two in Mexia. The Secret Service agents often chose Subway sandwiches, which were allowed to be delivered to Bush’s “Texas Whitehouse.”

As Don was beginning the Double D chain, the Corbitt’s first child, Drew, was born. Mrs. Corbitt had been teaching for eleven years, but chose to be a stay at home Mom. Four years later their daughter, Devin, arrived. After seven years at home, de Lou returned to the teaching

field. Adding to her resume of elementary teacher and reading specialist at Mexia, came nine years as a first grade teacher and also nine years as a second grade teacher.

After 28 years of teaching in Mexia, she taught ten years in Groesbeck as third grade math and science teacher.

After selling the convenience stores in 2008, Don became a independent account executive for Harvey-Daco in Waco, which is now Halo Branded Solutions which sells promotional items. If selling promotional items wasn’t enough to keep him busy, Don also began another new business in 2010, Double D ATM Solutions where he owns and/or operates 30 ATMs. During their 50 years of marriage, the Corbitts enjoyed trips in the U.S., European Countries, Canada, Hawaii, as well as Caribbean and Alaskan cruises.

Three extra special trips include African safaris in 2009,2011 and 2014.

These 1967 Groesbeck graduates made their church home at RossAvenue Church of Christ soon after they moved to Mexia in 1971. They immediately became active there. They both taught Bible classes and were active in the church bus ministry.

The Ross Avenue church moved to a new location in 1985 which is now Northcrest church of Christ. The couple has remained involved in several ministries. Don is honored to serve as an elder at Northcrest.

He has been involved in this service for over nine years. His wife is involved in the Grief Ministry which delivers goods to grieving families after the loss of

loved ones. Also, de Lou is involved in the We Care Ministry where she prepares hundreds of cards per year to be signed by class members and then sent to people for birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations, get well, thinking of you and sympathy to friends, members and even strangers.

The Corbitts continue to support the community as much as possible. In the past, Don had been a member of the MISD school board (9 years) and as president for a few of those years. He as served as president of the LIONS club and is currently a board member. Currently, he is serving on the Parkview Regional Hospital board, Centex ARC board as president and the Bistone Municipal Water Supply District board as president.

Don and de Lou together serve on the Limestone County Crimestoppers Board.

Mrs. Corbitt is also a member of the Mexia Garden Club, Limestone County Retired School Personnel as well as working with Habitat for Humanity all the while helping her mother, Peggy Champion and her grandkids and looking after Don. They are active in Mexia Ducks Unlimited and are Sponsors in Perpetuity.

Don and de Lou feel so fortunate to be named Mr. and Mrs. Mistletoe for the 2021 Christmas Parade. It is a privilege to be a part of this holiday celebration.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

We would also like to thank Dick Scott Ford in Mexia for sponsoring Mr. & Mrs. Mistletoe in the Parade.

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The Mexia Chamber would like to thank Jones Funeral Services for sponsoring the Parade of Lights 2021! We would also like to congratulate the float winners: Thank you to everyone who participated and made this year’s parade a huge success, including the manager and team members from Mexia Starbucks, Mexia Police, Limestone County Sheriff’s Dept and Mexia Fire Department. The parade ran very smoothly and had over 80 entries!

Quite a fun time by all and we are grateful to all of those who participated, as well as those who attended. Looking forward to another great one in 2022!

Santa at the 2021 Christmas Parade

1ST PLACE, MOLAR EXPRESS BY GONZALEZ FAMILY DENTISTRY

2ND PLACE, MEXIA FFA

3RD PLACE, CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH, MEXIA

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Merry Market Success!

What a remarkable Merry Christmas Market and Parade of lights!! You’ve already seen the pictures of Mr. & Mrs. Mistletoe and the winners of the parade, but here are just a few more pictures from all of the fun! We had St. Mary’s tamales, Stewdio101 Coffee and Kona Ice on Hand Thursday evening and they were a hit!! Kona Ice returned for the afternoon on Friday, and even Mr. Appleton, Superintendent from MISD, was observed partaking in that deliciousness! Ms. Glo was there with her cookies and fried pies, and around 20 vendors were inside. All had a great time, and many items were sold. Everyone is looking forward to next year! We’d like to give a special thank you to a few… Mexia FD for helping with set up at the civic center and handling the barriers in front of the Civic Center keeping everyone safe. Thank you to Reggie, Dee and Eric from City Hall making sure everything was handled at the Civic Center. Mexia Fire and Mexia PD were instrumental in the safety and success of the parade, along with LCSO and other area officers helping with traffic control. We truly appreciate Dick Scott Ford’s vehicle in the parade for Mr. & Mrs. Mistletoe and Jones Funeral Services for sponsoring the parade as well. Mr. Michael Jones from Jones Funeral services heads up the

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parade organization and line up and has been doing so for about 8 years. He does a fantastic job, and the parade runs smoothly because of it. We also appreciate our anonymous Chamber board member who was in charge of judging the parade floats. Additionally this year, Manager Leysha Brainum and team members from our new Starbucks also helped with line up and organization. They look forward to continuing to give back to their community, and we appreciate their help with the parade. There was help inside the civic center behind the scenes with set up, by Amanda and Fallon Burkeen. DECA from MISD was on hand to help with greeting, flyers, hospitality and cleanup. Mary Schaefer is a remarkable leader and really has a great group working hard. Additionally, DECA had a bake sale and raffle to raise funds for their organization’s efforts in the community. We appreciate the Mexia HS band performing on stage and the other various people who helped in various ways, including our sound guy, behind the scenes, Hector Olvera always does a great job too, and of course we really appreciate Santa making a trip from the North Pole for pictures on Saturday by our great local photographer Brandi at Photo Trappings, and her helper, Julie. Mexia is fortunate to have so many great people helping out to pull off such great events and keep everyone safe and running smoothly. Thank you all so much for all that you did, that you do, and will continue to do! Your efforts are greatly appreciated!

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Navarro College Foundation announces annual scholarship fundraising event;

Legacy “A New Voice”

By Katecey Harrell, The Mexia News

The Navarro College Foundation announced its annual scholarship fundraising event Legacy “ A New Voice,” where attendees can enjoy dinner catered by Leona General Store and Steakhouse, a silent auction, and live performances from local talent will be held at 6:30 p.m. April 1, at the Groesbeck Convention Center.

Event proceeds are reserved for students and faculty in the tri-county service area, according to the foundation website, and will provide scholarships to the Navarro South Campus. Scholarships are awarded to recipients who would not otherwise be able to attend Navarro College.

Navarro College Mexia South Campus is about 31 miles from the Corsicana campus and has more than 20 programs and concentrations including accounting, child development, education, English, general studies,

vocational nursing, and LVN to RN bridge option.

A small portion of the proceeds will fund the Teaching Innovation Award, where local college faculty compete for funds to provide an innovative teaching method, course redesign or improved instructional strategy through the addition of classroom technology and/or equipment.

The foundation has previously awarded over $6,000 in scholarships to students in Freestone, Limestone, and Leon counties.

To support the event individuals can become a gold, silver or bronze level sponsor of a table, make a donation or purchase individual tickets for $75 each.

Visit https://www.navarrocollege.edu/foundation/ legacy/index.html to purchase a sponsorship, or contact Christina Mims at 254-562-3848 or email her at christina. mims@navarrocollege.edu with questions.

Navarro College Foundation presents

Legacy 2021

FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2022 | 7:00 PM Groesbeck Convention Center

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Maybe an apple a day keeps the doctor away..

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But when you have to go to the doctor a good book can make a wait fly by!

Come check out the great selection that we have to offer!

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254-562-3231

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305 E. Rusk St. • Mexia, TX 76667

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Hwy. 84

You can now enjoy all the benefits and security of your Incommons Bank debit card with your digital wallet.

254-562-3821 www.incommonsbank.com

301 East Commerce St. Mexia, Tx 76667

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Mexia

Business Resource Center WHO WE ARE →

collaborative professionals that support local business growth and development

WHAT WE DO →

provide free resources, assistance, and guidance to small business owners in the Mexia area

navarrocollegesbdc.org john.dosher@navarrocollege.edu

254.472.0870

mexiachamber.com director@mexiachamber.com 254.562.5569

mexiaedc.com jshivers@mexiaedc.com 254.562.7900

214 N Sherman Street • Mexia, TX 76667