Mountain View
Groesbeck Journal
Thornton City Council Grapples with Budget Issues and Rate Increases at August Meeting
, , Thornton City Council focused heavily on monetary issues at its Monday, Aug. 12 meeting following public comments by citizen Bryan Becker regarding the voting process from the council’s July meeting. Becker expressed concerns about the nomination procedure for a vacated council position.“From my perspective, this was not a transparent process,” Becker said. “Not only was there no nomination process, but there was also no discussion about the candidates at any previous city council meeting prior to the submission of the blind ballots.”City Secretary Victoria Winstead provided Becker with a document outlining the process, which showed it was done...
TCR owes Bistone Counties back taxes
The high-speed rail company, Texas Central Railroad, owes Limestone and Freestone Counties a total of $42,245.61 in delinquent taxes and fees, according to Texans Against High-Speed Rail.The Bistone counties are two of 10 Texas counties in the path of the proposed high-speed rail between Dallas and Houston owed a total of $956, 682.61 in taxes from 2023, along with penalties and attorney fees, according to a TAHSR press release. The money is owed to counties, emergency services districts and school districts in which the company owns property.Limestone County is owed $18,120.09, and Freestone is owed $24,125.52. The taxes were due...
Missing teen safe, home again
Law enforcement officers found missing Mexia teenager Desmond “Dez” Connally Jr. in Fort Worth and returned him to his mother’s custody over the weekend.Connally’s mother, Precious Simmons, said tips by informants helped Fort Worth police officers locate the 16-year-old who went missing Saturday, Aug. 3, about 11 a.m. from his cousin’s house in Mexia where he had spent the night. Mexia police officers met Fort Worth officers halfway between the two cities, and his mother picked him up at the Mexia police station about 1 a.m. Saturday, Aug.10, she said.“He’s well,” said Simmons, who noted she still has many questions about...
H-E-B launches 2025 search for Texas’ top educators
Nominations for the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards are now open to all Texas public school professionals in Texas and close on Oct. 7. Teachers, counselors, principals, early childhood centers, school boards and districts can win cash prizes for their outstanding work. Since 2002, the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards program, which recognizes educators who go the extra mile to serve their students and their communities, has awarded more than $14 million in funding to finalists, winners and their schools. All state-certified public school educators currently teaching in Texas are eligible for the awards program, as well as Texas early...
Ex-Students Prep for HoCo 24!
The Groesbeck Ex-Students Association met on Monday Aug. 5 to plan various aspects of the quickly approaching Homecoming weekend, slated for Friday Sept. 13 - Saturday Sept. 14.This year, Groesbeck Graduates from the Class of 1974 will be recognized and honored at Goat Stadium before the Varsity Football team takes on the Centerville Bulldogs for a non-district game.On Saturday morning, floats in the Homecoming Parade are encouraged to follow the “Let’s Go to the Movies” theme. Many graduating classes plan reunions around or during Homecoming Weekend, and show their class spirit and pride by decorating floats and riding in the...
AMERICAN PICKERS to Film in Texas in October
, , The American Pickers are excited to return to Texas! They plan to film episodes of The History Channel hit television series throughout the area in October 2024. AMERICAN PICKERS is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking” on The History Channel. The hit show follows skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques. They are always excited to find historically significant or rare items, in addition to unforgettable Characters and their collections. As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, the Pickers are on a mission to...
Family Abuse Center Hosts Domestic Violence Awareness Event
, , , , , , , , , The Family Abuse Center held a Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention community event on Tuesday at the Methodist Activity Center. Despite a modest turnout, the event featured an engaging panel discussion with advocates and counselors who provided crucial information on resources available for individuals in abusive situations.During the session, attendees were encouraged to ask questions and share experiences, making for an interactive and informative discussion. The panel emphasized the importance of reaching out for help and highlighted various support services accessible to those in need.They also explained that they accept donations of old cell phones with no service as long as they are still chargeable. Keep an eye out for an update about where those can be donated in the future.Community members seeking more information about these resources can visit or contact the Journal office. Additionally, organizations interested in hosting the Family Abuse Center for similar discussions at churches, workplaces, or schools are encouraged to reach out to Jena Messer at jena.messer@familyabusecenter.org.The Family Abuse Center continues to be a vital resource in the fight against domestic violence, offering support and education to the community.
1924, The Year of the Golden Rule Trades Day
, , , , Many times while searching the archives, I have stumbled upon mentions of a Golden Rule Sales Day or Trades Day. This week seemed like the perfect time to dig and find out what it was all about. The Groesbeck Ad Club was formed in early April 1924 and was the sponsor of the Sales Day.The first Golden Rule Sales Day was held on May 5, 1924, and was considered a success, with several hundred dollars worth of products sold and many people taking advantage of the deals despite it being held on the day many farmers...
New Principal Dr. Parker to Steer GHS to Success
Groesbeck High School is under new leadership, with Dr. Keith Parker taking the helm as Principal for the 2024-2025 school year! Parker’s path to education and administration is very different from many of his coworkers, with several years of military experience in the U.S. Navy and plans to become a youth minister before ultimately being led to education as the best fit for his service-oriented heart.Parker grew up all over the state, as his parents were part of Buckner Baptist Benevolences, a Christian foster care program. He graduated from Garland High School in 1993, and shortly thereafter, joined the Army...
Ms. Lara Sims, Ready to Roll With It as Enge-Washington Principal
Enge-Washington Intermediate’s new Principal Ms. Lora Sims has worked in education for more than 20 years and has a soft spot for Groesbeck ISD, having served as the High School Assistant Principal in 2016-2017.“Groesbeck has just always had my heart,” Sims said. “I don't know what it was; I cried when Midway called and offered me the job (in 2017). I cried. I mean, it was a substantial pay raise, so I couldn't say no, right? But it was still a hard decision.”Sims mostly grew up in Palestine but finished her final two years of high school at Keller ISD...
Outdoors Briefs
August 15 is the application deadline for dozens permits available in several popular categories in the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Drawn Hunt program. The categories for include Archery Deer, Archery Mule Deer, Javelina, Pronghorn and Private Lands Pronghorn. Applications for these and other hunt categories must be completed online, no mail-ins. There is a $3 application fee for most hunts. Selected hunters may be assessed a “hunt fee” ranging $80-$130, depending on the hunt. Youths under 17 always hunt for free. Around 9,400 hunting permits are available in 62 different categories this year. About 4,800 permits are for hunts on state-run wildlife...
Big Kitties
, , , There are plenty of ways to fool a fat cat. Some anglers like to go after them the conventional way using a stout rod, big line and heavy duty hook tipped with a slab of diced shad or a live perch. Most will agree the fresher the bait, the better. Passive crowds also catch plenty on trotlines, jugs, limb lines and bank poles, as do adrenaline junkies like Justin White of Kaufman and Drew Moore of Chandler. White and Moore are hardcore noodlers. Both get a charge out of sticking their hands, arms, legs and feet into dark places where...
Mexia teenager missing for several days
, Mexia High School Junior Desmond “Dez” Connally Jr., 16, went missing Saturday, Aug. 3, about 11 a.m., according to a Mexia Police Department press release.Chief of Police Heath Crossland said his agency Is working with other law enforcement agencies to locate the youth. Police received a call for service Saturday night saying the teenager had run away from his cousin’s residence in Mexia, the press release said.“It is believed that Desmond voluntarily left with the intent not to return,” the press release said. “We believe he may have coordinated with someone to pick him up. Desmond is currently listed...
Groesbeck's National Night Out Thrills Community with Fun
, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , The Groesbeck Police Department hosted a packed city park for National Night Out despite the heat reaching triple digits on Tuesday, Aug. 6,...
Thornton Chamber of Commerce Awards Scholarships and Cash Prizes with Giveaway
, The Thornton Chamber of Commerce recently concluded its annual $5,000 Giveaway, which turned out to be a resounding success. The event, aimed at raising funds for its scholarship program, saw the participation of numerous community members.Six deserving students were awarded scholarships, thanks to the generosity of the Chamber and the community. Rylie Goodman, Kayla Hewitt, Caden Hughes, Avery Samford, Madison Mccaleb, and Emalea Mccaleb each received a $1,000 scholarship, enabling them to pursue their educational aspirations.The Chamber expressed its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who purchased tickets and contributed to the success of the fundraiser. Their support played a pivotal...
2 Trinity Institute properties for sale Fate of old gym concerns residents
“For sale” signs just went up in front of the old Westminster College gymnasium building and two acres of heavily wooded land near it in Tehuacana.The properties are owned by the Trinity Institute, which also owns the 150-year-old Texas Hall, the former home of Trinity University and later Westminster College. The vacant land on College Street is listed for $27,500, but the listing for the building on Railroad Street that was constructed almost a century ago is still under development, according to Aaron Smith, the new chairman of the board of directors who succeeded the recently retired Jim Parker.“We’re trying...
Fallen Mexia police officer remembered
Mexia Police Officer Ricky Lee Ward was shot and killed Aug. 2, 1993, while investigating a convenience store shoplifting.Limestone County District Attorney Roy DeFriend noted the anniversary of Ward’s death in an email with the message, “Lest we forget.” DeFriend, who prosecuted Ward’s killer, said he started sending out the emails several years ago. He added that he felt honored to work with law enforcement officers.“Ricky was the first officer I was personally acquainted with who was killed in the line of duty,” he said. “Unfortunately, there have been three more added to the list, and many other officers I...
Groesbeck Ex-Students dues needed
The Groesbeck Ex-Students Association would like to thank all of those for paying their annual class dues.Class dues are $15 each to help with the homecoming festivities but more importantly, to help our seniors have a fair shot at being awarded Ex-Student Scholarships this year.Please send dues to Groesbeck Ex-Students Association, PO Box 657, Groesbeck, TX 76642, or Venmo Groesbeck Ex-Students Association @ junewietzi Paying your ex-student dues will aid in that endeavor. You may also make donations in memory of a friend or loved one. Every little bit helps.
Local Heroes and Fire Departments Save Local Business
A potentially disastrous situation was swiftly averted thanks to the vigilant actions of Cpl. Hobbs and Officer Kiser from the Groesbeck Police Department on August 4. Around 12:20 a.m., they responded to observed fire activity at the 1300 block of North Ellis. Smoke was spotted billowing from S&S Machining, prompting a quick call to the Groesbeck Fire Department.In a remarkable display of teamwork, Mexia, Thornton, and Kosse Fire Departments also joined in to combat the blaze. Fortunately, their rapid response led to the containment and extinguishing of a small fire located on the 2nd floor of the building, which prevented...
City Water Treatment Plant Begins Annual Switch to Free Chlorine for Water Disinfection
The City of Groesbeck Water Treatment Plant has announced that it will be transitioning from Chloramines to Free Chlorine as part of its annual water treatment process, starting on August 5, 2024. This necessary procedure is undertaken to ensure that the drinking water supplied meets the required State standards. During this period, some residents may detect a slight alteration in the taste or odor of the water, which is a normal occurrence during the transition.The switch to Free Chlorine will be in effect until the end of August 2024, following which the treatment process will revert to Chloramines by September 1, 2024. Should there be any inquiries or concerns regarding this transition, residents are encouraged to contact Keith Tilley at 254-729-5959 ext. 5.The City of Groesbeck Water Treatment Plant is committed to maintaining the quality and safety of the drinking water supply and appreciates the cooperation and understanding of the community during this transition period.
It’s essential to note our commitment to transparency:
Our Terms of Use acknowledge that our services may not always be error-free, and our Community Standards emphasize our discretion in enforcing policies. As a platform hosting over 100,000 pieces of content published daily, we cannot pre-vet content, but we strive to foster a dynamic environment for free expression and robust discourse through safety guardrails of human and AI moderation.