Mexia Chamber Guide

Heart of the Texas Triangle

Fort Parker State Park celebrates 100 years of Texas state parks

Emergency Services

• 24-hour physician staffing

• 24-hour emergency dept.

• Level IV trauma designation

• Chest pain accredited.

Surgical Services

• Outpatient surgery

• Surgery suites

• Recovery room

• Endoscopy/GI suite

• 24-hour anesthesia

• Orthopedics

• Spine surgery

• ENT

• General surgery

Intensive Care

• Intensive care unit

• Vent management

Diagnostic Imaging Services

• Diagnostic radiology

• General and vascular ultrasound echocardiography

• Mammography

• Fluoroscopy

• Nuclear medicine

• CT

• MRI

Medical Specialties

• Internal medicine

• Family medicine

• General surgery

• Podiatry

• Pathology

• Radiology

• Neurosurgery

• Oncology otolaryngology/ ENT asthma/ allergy

• Orthopedics

• Pediatrics

Acute Care Services

• Med/surg unit

• Telemetry monitoring

• Capabilities

Cardiopulmonary Services

• EKG

• Pulmonary function testing

Rehabilitative Services

• Outpatient rehabilitation

• Physical therapy occupational therapy

• Therapeutic exercise

• Electrical stimulation

• Cold packs

• Ergonomic evaluation/training

• Swing Bed

• Manual therapy

• Hand therapy

• Wellness

Other Services

• Pharmacy

• Laboratory 24-hour service

• Cytology lab

• Health education

• Case management/utilization review

• Chaplain services/ Volunteer program

• OP Infusion Services

Happy Spring!

It is so hard to believe that spring is here! I am ready for those spring flowers, longer days, and warmer temperatures. For me, spring represents a time of new things, and of growth and development. I see this in our community all the time. We have had some great new businesses open in our community, and we’ve had existing businesses celebrate milestones and their own growth. One of the things I love about our community is the partnership and support of businesses, and one another. I see it all the time, especially with the retailers – if they don’t have it, they’ll suggest another local retailer who might. They support one another, encourage one another and share successes and struggles – all in the name of growth, and building community. We can all take lessons in that and do better to support and encourage others. They also know that our community isn’t bound by city limits. Community is our town, our county, and the surrounding areas alike. Bistone counties, and the Tri-County area, and beyond. There is

great community and support here in our rural part of Central Texas, and it makes me proud!

Speaking of milestones… we will be ready to share in the excitement of the 100th anniversary of State Parks in June with our very own Fort Parker on June 10th! What a success! If you haven’t been out to Fort Parker in a while, please go - it is beautiful. They’ve done a lot of work, and we are so fortunate to have it here. We have great recreational areas in our community, and we’re fortunate. We need to recognize and support them so that they can sustain and grow too.

We have been excited to grow here at the Chamber since the fiscal year began, welcoming several new members, and conducting some ribbon cuttings, offering classes, networking events and more. Additionally, this spring we’re excited to expand our horizons and offer a golf tournament on April 15. We’re very excited about that and look forward to sharing more with you through Facebook, The Mexia News and in future publications. Additionally, the 93rd Annual Mexia Rodeo will be held June 22-24. We hope everyone plans to at-

Did you know we offer FREE News Alerts?

tend. There have been some changes made for this year and it should be a great time! Yes, hot – but fun none the less, and we’ll brave the heat together! Then looking forward from there, the Boomin’ on the 4th of July, Mexia Lions Club Car show, and Fireworks brought to us by the City of Mexia, and on to the Cindy Walker Days Festival brought to us by the Cindy Walker Foundation, July 20-23.

School will be getting out soon for the summer. That means more baseball, time at the park, and the splashpad, and time at the area lakes and recreational areas. There is a lot to do! Let’s get out and enjoy our town and our community. Invite some friends, share a meal, lend a hand, and be in stronger community.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @MexiaChamber, and always on the web at www.mexiachamber.com. You can find happenings, job postings, coupons, membership directory, and more! For the Rodeo and golf, you can find more on Facebook at @MexiaRodeo and @Mexia Chamber Golf Tournament

Enjoy your spring!

The Mexia News

214

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

JANUARY - FORCE LOGISTICS

The Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce named Force Logistics, LLC, as January Business of the Month. Pictured are assistant Mikal LaFoy and terminal manager Susie Walley stand for a photo outside the Mexia Terminal.

FEBRUARY - INCOMMONS BANK

The Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce named Incommons Bank the February Business of the Month. Incommons Bank wholeheartedly believes that a community bank is just that — a bank built by the community it serves, Chamber Executive Director Traci LaFoy said. For 130 years of handshake banking, Incommons Bank has striven to be “The Best Community Bank in Central Texas” and has worked closely with its communities and customers by listening to their needs and providing the support to help them grow. An Incommons Bank customer enjoys more than just a banking relationship — a relationship based on mutual respect, understanding and highquality service. “We are proud to have Incommons bank serving our community and being a Chamber member,” LaFoy said. “They are supportive of our community and many community endeavors and activities. Thank you, Incommons Bank!”

MARCH - CARRY-ON TRAILER

The Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce named Carry-On Trailer, Inc. of Mexia as the Business of the Month for March. Carry-On is a manufacturer for trailers, housed right here in the heart of Mexia’s Industrial Park. Carry-On works hard to produce quality trailers that are sent far and wide for their company. We are privileged to have such a great manufacturer in our town, and in our Industrial Park. Carry-On is a great Chamber member and community partner and we’re glad to have them as a member. We wish them many years of continued growth and business!

CHILD WELFARE BOARD

Mexia Fire Chief Rob LaFoy cuts the ribbon as the Child Welfare Board celebrates joining the Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce with its ribbon-cutting ceremony January 12.

CASA OF FREESTONE AND LIMESTONE COUNTIES

Ashley Gomez- Executive Director of CASA of Freestone and Limestone Counties cut the ceremonial ribbon to join the Mexia Chamber of Commerce on February 14 at the Mexia Campus of Navarro College. Pictured are Ashley Gomez- CASA Executive Director; Traci LaFoy, Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce Director; ShienDee Pullman; CASA Volunteers, David Timmerman and Lisa Brown; Linda Timmerman, CASA Volunteer Coordinator and CASA Board Members Susie Flores, Spring Johnson; Tony Adkins- Board Treasurer, Taylor Rocheleu- Board President, Michelle Slaughter- CASA Volunteer, Erica Carrol- Board Member, Wayne Williams- 2nd Vice President and Itzel Duran.

BEALLS OUTLET

Store manager Laura Medina cut the ceremonial ribbon to join the Mexia Chamber of Commerce during the grand opening event on March 2.

Fort Parker State Park celebrates 100 years of Texas state parks

By Katecey Harrell news@themexianews.com

Texas State Parks, including Fort Parker State Park in Limestone County, will commemorate 100 years of existence with a special community celebration.

Fort Parker State Park invites people to participate in free activities from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 10.

Entry to a park is free of charge on the day it hosts an official 100-year celebration event.

“A lot of people have never heard of Fort Parker State Park. We’re smaller than the other parks, and many people are pleasantly surprised when they come,” said Clayton Tramel, Fort Parker State Park assistant superintendent. “It’s exciting to be a part of that and see how many people come. We get a lot of comments that it’s a hidden gem.”

Park visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, tour boat rides, face painting and more. Some activities include;

Cabela’s Stocked Fish Tank

Authentic chuck wagon cooking

Operation Game Thief “Wall of Shame”

Exhibit sponsored by Texas Game Wardens

ONCOR “Touch A Truck” and “Live Line Safety Demonstration”

Blackland Prairie Raptor Center: Live Raptor Program!

“Take Me Fishing” Trailer and activities sponsored by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Angler Ed

Cook using a Dutch Oven with Uncle Mike!

Skins & Skulls Exhibit & Live Wildlife Specimens Sponsored by TPWD Wildlife Division

There will be food trucks on-site, but the food is not free.

History

Springfield – the original county seat of Limestone County in 1847, was once located at Fort Parker State Park.

Tramel said people settled here because of the spring-fed lake that has never run dry.

“Springfield began to fade away in the early 1870s after the railroad bypassed the town and the courthouse burned. Groesbeck became the county seat in 1873, and the Springfield post office closed in 1878. Springfield soon became a ghost town,” as stated on the TPWD website.

Fort Parker State Park came to be in 1935. The city of Mexia and three local landowners donated land between Mexia and Groesbeck for the park.

African-American men with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the park from 1935 to 1942. They completed a dam across the

Upcoming Events

10 a.m. June 10

Lakeside Legacy Celebration – Celebrate! Texas State Parks is turning 100 this year, and Fort Parker State Park is throwing a community-wide birthday bash!

9 a.m. July 8

Basic Fishing Clinic – Learn the basics of fishing at Fort Parker State Park.

5 p.m. July 13

Project

Navasota River in 1939, creating Fort Parker Lake.

The CCC was a work program that enlisted unemployed men to work on land conservation and park development projects.

About 7,000 visitors attended Fort Parker State Park’s grand opening May 1, 1941. Springfield Cemetery, located on park grounds, is the only remnant of the town.

He said it gets a lot of attention from diverse people because it’s unique.

“Back in those days, most of the time, Blacks and whites were separate even when they were buried, but this cemetery has both Blacks and whites buried in it, and that was kind of unheard of,” Tramel said.

Expansion

The park has several projects planned for the coming years.

“We got a lot of updates that are planned and on the books,” Tramel said.

The Nature Center and Recreation Hall renovations been in the works for about three years – progress slowed by the Covid-19 pandemic. The building is currently slated for renovation and is closed to the public.

People can study taxidermy and view wildlife with binoculars at the center overlooking the lake and the blue heron rookery. He said the park would host even more activities at the center once renovations are completed.

“We also have the Discovery Center. When renovations of the electrical system are complete, we can start holding programs again,” he said.

The Discovery Center is a place to hold informative, educational and interactive programs often aimed at children.

“One thing I’ve done down there was a water bug program. We could toss a bucket into the water and see what bugs come up. We could put them in a petri dish and see them swimming around individually so the kids can see them better. We’ll see if we can identify any of them as well. [We could look at] all the little bugs and things in there, a lot of the fish and how they’re part of the ecosystem,” Tramel said.

Both centers are expected to be completed or started within the next year or two.

The park would like to expand the existing playground and purchase ADA-accessible equipment.

“A lot of the playground stuff that’s ADA is pricey, but it is a goal, and it is doable and attainable. It just may take some time to reach it,” Tramel said.

He said a new park headquarters is another future project the park intends to complete.

Restoration

Tramel said there used to be a lot of grasslands in the area. He’s working with a regional natural resource specialist because they plan to restore natural grasses to a section of the park over the next few years.

“We’re where the Blackland Prairies meet the Post Oak Savanna,” he said. “The Post Oaks has taken over, but there is a park section where we hope to restore the grasslands.”

Too much shade in certain areas killed off the natural grasses.

The park staff hope to work with the TPWD Wildland Fire Management team to perform controlled burns in selected areas.

TPWD Wildland Fire Management protects and manages burnable acres on all department lands.

“Once we clear out some brush and canopy, we got a little section we’re hoping to burn to help open up those seeds that have been probably dormant for a very long time,” he said. “We’re hoping a lot of the natural grasses start coming back. It will also help increase the biodiversity in that area of the park because there are a lot of little critters animals that prefer that kind of environment.”

Activities

Fort Parker State Park sits on about 1,500 acres. There are two lakes in the park – Fort Parker Lake, which makes up 750 acres and Lake Springfield, a spring-fed lake, about 3 acres.

Tramel said there are seven miles of trails and several points of interest people can explore on foot or by bike.

Wildlife frequently seen in the park includes bluebirds, ducks, bald eagles, owls and bobcats.

WILD Facilitator Training – Training to conduct the Suite of Texas Project WILD workshops. Prerequisite of WILD educator workshop.

“You might not always see the bobcat and the fox running around, but most people see the deer. But if you’re lucky enough, you’ll see those animals,” he said.

The park is rod and reel only. There are no cast nets, jug lines or trotlines.

“A lot of people come here to fish, especially when the crappy season comes into play as well as the sand bass; we get a lot of boats here,” Tramel said.

The park has primitive and electric campsites. Many people bring RVs but can set up tents too.

People can also bring their canoe or kayak or rent one from the park.

The park also hosts an annual Kid Fish event for youth to participate in fishing for rainbow trout. There are events and programs throughout the year. People can check the event calendar at https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/fort-parker/ park_events

Volunteer

One way to get involved at the park is to volunteer with the Friends of Fort Parker State Park, Tramel said.

“They ask how they can help us put on events. If anybody’s wanting to help with ideas out there and help organize an event if somebody likes doing that stuff,” Tramel said. “They should join the Friends group.”

Daryl Drain-Garner, a Friends of Fort Parker State Park board director, said Friends of Fort Parker State Park is a non-profit organization that works to improve visitor experiences.

The organization purchases supplies for park programs and events, she said.

“We don’t have the funds to build buildings, make repairs or things like that. We try to help the park have fun and educational programs for visitors, whether they’re local or from far away,” Drain-Garner said.

The organization supplied fishing bobbers, bait and fishing poles for every child that participated at Kid Fish. Organization members have volunteered during Lakeside Christmas, river cleanup, seasonal and holiday events, cemetery cleanup and more.

She said the group seeks new members to volunteer with programs and fundraising events.

“I would think that many people would love to be part of maintaining the park and volunteering for programs,” she said. “It’s fun to help with the Kid Fish or the Christmas event. It’s always nice to see kids having fun or people learning new things about the park.”

TPWD also has a volunteer webpage where people can view opportunities with the Park Host Program, Tramel said. All people must do is register and select the park and opportunity they want to volunteer for.

Park hosts are volunteers who supplement park staff and serve as TPWD representatives.

They also help maintain the campground area and clean buildings, Tramel said.

“The benefit to them is they get a free site, and they get to stay on-site, and they can travel from park to park if they want, but if they like a park, they can stay an extended time.”

Importance

Tramel said that state Parks provide a safe gathering place for people in nature.

“It’s a small town and small community, but I can’t tell you how many people have come here and said I’ve lived here 20 years and didn’t even know this place was here,” he said.

It’s a safe place for everybody to interact and enjoy leisurely exercise.

“I got mothers that bring their kids out to play on the playground for a little bit. Some kids are homeschooled, and their parents bring them out here to learn about things outside and the world around them,” he said.

Many people in this area forget they have this wonderful state park here, Daryl DrainGarner, a Friends of Fort Parker State Park board director.

“My husband and I got involved because we live nearby and love this park. We moved to this area to be near this park,” DrainGarner said.

She said that spending time outside in nature can improve physical and mental health.

“Everybody was cooped up for so long with COVID. Getting outside and walking amongst the trees on the trail, it’s just so peaceful and can bring peace to you,” she said.

City parks are great. But it doesn’t feel as if people are in the wilderness.

“You can go to a state park and walk on the trails. Yeah, somebody maintained that trail. But you know, it’s still very primitive,” she said.

Drain-Graner said that being in nature can give a person hope and bring soothes to their soul.

“It’s very important for people to get out in nature to remind themselves that life it’s complicated, but you know, in a way, it’s not when you get outside and feel at peace,” she said. “You feel bad. You’re depressed. Life is wearing you down; go for a long hike, and somehow, sometimes, things just feel better or manageable.”

Operation

Fully staffed, the park has nine employees to maintain the park.

“Our maintenance guys are kind of the lifeblood of what people see when they enter the park,” Tramel said.

The maintenance workers mow the campgrounds, pick up trash, clean the restrooms and complete minor construction projects.

That’s what people see, but the office manager position is also vital, he said. The office manager knows how to purchase everything for the park.

“The office manager and the assistant are the only two people that know that process because there is a lengthy process to purchase anything from pens to paper towels to trash bags,” he said. “It’s stuff people normally wouldn’t think about. Because I think we’d have some upset campers if we ran out of toilet paper.”

The headquarters and maintenance staff have good workplace relationships.

“Everybody interacts with each other inside and outside of work, and we have get-togethers, and it’s an enjoyable experience as part of this staff to work at this park,” he said. “I think that shows when the staff interacts with the public. Because if you weren’t happy where you were working or with the people you were working with, that shows.”

“We would like to have more, but we’re a smaller park, so it’s sometimes harder to get,” he said.

People can view park employment opportunities on the TPWD website.

He said outreach and community involvement are essential. They are always trying to get as many people as possible in the local community and outside the park.

“I think, especially people in big metropolitan areas, are so disconnected from a place like this, they’re very surprised when you can get them to come out at how much they’ll enjoy it,” he said.

Lakeside Legacy Celebration — Texas Parks & Wildlife Department https://tpwd.texas.gov/calendar/fort-parker/ lakeside-legacy-celebration

Only Old Springfield Cemetery remains of the historic town of Springfield, established in 1838. It is the final resting place of many East Texas pioneers, including an American Revolutionary War veteran and two Battle of San Jacinto veterans.

People visiting Fort Parker State Park can explore seven miles of trails, hike or bike the two-mile Springfield Trail.

Jesus Answers

In John Chapter 6, verse 26, says, “Jesus answered them and said, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled.” NKJV

But I love how it reads in the Message Bible Translation, “Jesus answered, ‘You have come looking for me not because you saw God in my actions but because I fed you, filled your stomachs-and for free.’

Jesus was telling the crowd you only seek me for the loaves. In other words, you only want me for what you can get out of me, to serve you only what you want. Only excepting the truths that fit your lifestyle. Jesus was explaining to them He has so much more.

Often times we are the same way. He desires a true relationship with us, not just in name only.

We want salvation, but don’t tell me how to live.

We want grace, but still live in our sin.

We want blessings/favor and prosperity, but with no submission/ no dying to self nor our flesh, and with no obedience to His Word.

I am a visual person; I learn and comprehend better if I can see it and work it out for myself. I can’t help but picture Jesus’ face in that moment as He is speaking these words.

He desires to have all of our hearts, fully committed, fully surrendered, when it is good, when it is hard, when it hurts and even when we think it is inconvenient.

It is so hard for our human mind to wrap around that this life we are living right now is temporary. This life will pass away and we will step into eternity, where our lives will truly begin. Heaven is real, Hell is real. What eternity will you be stepping into? Who has your heart today?

Pastor Leeann Freeman Covenant Life Fellowship

BIG DADDY’S PICANTE

Anna S. Kantor (Edmund Schuster)

• ½ bushel tomatoes (25lbs)

• 10 to 12 jalapenos

• 20 bell peppers

• 5 cloves garlic

• 4 large onions

• 2 celery stalks

• ½ t celery salt

• 1 t mustard seed

• 1 t salt

• ½ - 1 c apple cider vinegar, depending on personal taste

• Sugar to taste

1. Par boil the tomatoes, cool, and remove the skins. Finely chopped.

2. Chop into small pieces the bell peppers, onions, and celery.

3. Deseed the Jalapeno and chop finely.

4. Combine all the ingredients in a large (16 quart) boiling pot until well heated, bringing to a boil and then simmering 30 minutes.

5. Place the lids into a small boiling pot and bring to a rolling boil before using them.

6. Prepare the jars:

7. Place the jars in boiling water four to six at a time, depending on size of pot.

8. Remove jars one at a time on a towel on the counter. Pour the hot picante mixture into hot jars, then wipe the rim with a clean, damp washcloth. Apply the lid, hand tighten the band; we then, use a leather glove to tighten the lids and place the jars in a water bath using jar lifters.

9. Process the pint jars in 1” water bath for 35 to 40 minutes.

10. Using jar lifters, remove each jar and place on a thick towel. Leave them for 12 to 24 hours or until completely cooled.

11. If a jar did not seal, place it in the refrigerator and use within three weeks.

This will make 14 pints or 21 half pints.

The MISD Board approved the Instructional

continue working of the Accelerated Weeks and share are finalized.

Also, I am pleased that Shelli Killingsworth be moving into Executive Director Programs for the school year. Prior Executive Director Resources, Mrs. worked with

Migrant, Homeless, Foster Care programs. also spent time RtI and Gifted and programs. Mrs. is very excited to serve the students Mexia

in this

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

#ShineYourLight

Board of Trustees

2023-2024

Calendar. We will working on details

Accelerated Instruction

share when those pleased to announce Killingsworth will the role of Director of Student the 2023-2024

Prior to being the Director of Human

Killingsworth

Bilingual/ESL, Homeless, and programs. She working with and Talented Killingsworth to continue to students and staff of new role.

CHAMBER DIRECTORY

AGRICULTURE

Cedar Isle Ranch

1178 LCR 198

Coolidge, TX 76635

Circle H Ag Services

P O box 152

Tehuacana, TX 76686

254-747-0394

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

Rockin’ L Ranch

883 LCR 198

Coolidge, TX 76635

254-562-7324

AUTOMOTIVE

2W Solutions, LLC

319 Martin Luther King JR. Hwy

Mexia, TX 76667

254-237-1329

Bonham Street Carwash, LLC

506 N. Bonham

Mexia, TX 76667

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

P & P Tires and Service

819 W. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-9399

Triple L Tire

900 S. Hwy 14

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2070

BAKERY

Jerri’s Cakes & Treats

810 LCR 463

Mexia, TX 76667

254-366-7607

CHURCHES

Calvary Baptist Church

519 S. McKinney

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2269

Covenant Life Fellowship

515 S. Canton

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-6636

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

One Church

304 E. Commerce

Mexia, TX 76667

972-693-2029

CIVIC GROUPS

Epic Women Survival, LLC

398 LCR 194

Coolidge, TX 76635

214-448-1581

CASA of Freestone and Limestone Counties

P O Box 767

Mexia, TX 76667

254-600-9909

Limestone County Child Welfare Board

Groesbeck, TX 76642

254-447-0291

Facebook: Limestone County Child Welfare Board

McBay/Sims PTA

P O Box 1184

Mexia, TX 76667

Mexia Lions Club

201. N. Paris

Mexia, TX 76667

Meets Tuesdays at Noon

Mexia Little Dribblers

P O Box 336

Mexia, TX 76667

Mexia Public School

Museum & Alumni Association

616 N. Red River

P.O. Box 1044

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-4000

https://www.mexiaisd.net/page/ mexia-public-schools-museum-and-alumni-association

COMMUNICATIONS

AT&T Prime

1324 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-6850

Gibbs Mexia Library

305 E. Rusk

Mexia TX 76667

254-562-3231

KNES Radio – Texas 99

627 W. Commerce

Fairfield, TX 75840

903-389-5637

The Mexia News 214 N. Railroad St

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2868

Uplight Digital Marketing Agency

Dew, TX 75860

903-915-2961

www.uplightdigital.com

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

Renaissance Systems, Inc 107 E. Commerce

Mexia, TX 76667

254-230-4144

www.rsitex.com

Utilize IT

1220 Hinchliffe Rd

Mexia, TX 76667

254-218-5408

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

307 E. Commerce Mexia, TX 76667

903-390-8392

The Cowboy Western Club

400 S. Hwy 14

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-7373

Tranquilo Ranch

233 LCR 406

Groesbeck, TX 76642

972-754-8124

FINANCIAL

Beene Wealth Management Group

400 Austin Ave, Ste 200

Waco, TX 76703

254-755-6575

Brandon Fleming CPA, LLC

400 N. McKinney

Mexia TX 76667

254-562-3460

Centex Citizen Credit Union

1404 E Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-9296

Citizen’s State Bank

722 Main Teague, TX 75860 254-739-0500

Citizen’s State Bank

409 S. Ellis Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-3054

Edward Jones Investments

505 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-5323

Farmers State Bank

604 W. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9494

Incommons Bank

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

Security Finance 203 E. Milam Mexia TX 76667

254-562-3933

www.security-finance.com

True Value Advisors 408 Club Lake Rd Teague, TX 75860 Truevalueadvisors.com

832-457-5582

VeraBank

405 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-5396

www.verabank.com

FOOD TRUCK

Bubbly Like Champagne

Mobile Bartending

862 LCR 377

Mexia ,TX 76667

903-388-6098

www.bubblylikechampagne.com

Karsan’s Kona Ice

P O Box 215 Buffalo, TX 75831

903-388-6649

Z-Man’s BBQ

Groesbeck, TX 76642

703-346-3653

GOVERNMENT

Limestone County

Sherriff’s Office

Murray Agnew

Groesbeck, TX 76642

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

City of Mexia

101 S. McKinney Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-4131

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

Barefoot Therapy

202 E. Commerce

Mexia, TX 76667

903-915-9319

www.barefoottherapy.us

Sassy Sisters Boutique, Salon & Spa 107 N. Sherman

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2222

Serenity Spa/Madison’s Loft

508 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-0820

The Shave Cave 101 N. Sherman

Mexia, TX 76667

254-472-5001

INSURANCE

Jackson’s Insurance Plus

404 E. Yeagua

Groesbeck, TX 76642

254-729-3940

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

Taylor Rocheleau

Financial Services Professional Agent, New York Life Ins. Co. Registered Rep offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC (member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency 2600 Network Blvd #1380

Frisco, TX 75034

972-377-5237

254-747-3247

Texas Farm Bureau – Mexia 202 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-7300

210-259-3468

www.txfb.com

Tony Adkins

Specialty Risk Insurance Agency 117 E. Commerce Ste 103 Fairfield, TX 75840

903-389-7788

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

Tranquilo Ranch 233 LCR 406

Groesbeck, TX 76642

972-754-8124

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 76667

254-255-0696

S & S Machining and Fabrication

1331 N. Hwy 14

Groesbeck, TX 76642

254-729-3685

Swarco Reflex Inc.

900 N. Denton

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-9879

Trulieve Texas, Inc

3494 Martin Hurst Rd

Tallahassee, FL 32312

MEDICAL AND DENTAL

AccentCare Home Health

8300 Central Park Drive, Ste A Waco, TX 76712

254-755-6179

Cen-Tex ARC

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2891

Gonzalez Family Dentistry

300 N. Sherman

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-5347

Interim Health Care

2420 Wycon Drive

Waco, TX 76712

254-741-6570

Limestone Medical Center

701 McClintic Dr

Groesbeck, TX 76642

254-729-3281

www.lmchospital.com

Manor Health Care Residence

831 Tehuacana Highway

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-3867

Mexia Chiropractic

722 E. Commerce

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2112

Mexia LTC

601 N. Terrace

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-5400

Mexia Vision Services

501 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-3883

Skilled Care of Mexia

501 E. Sumpter

Mexia, TX 76667

254-472-0630

Tejas Urgent Care

401 E Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2500

Tom W. Fox Jr. DDS

110 N. Bonham

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2881

PET SERVICES

Pawz & Clawz

1111 W Hwy 171

Mexia, TX 76667

254-472-5122

Shaggy Chic 103 E. Main

Mexia, TX 76667

254-722-7465

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photo Trappings 115 E Commerce

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-7427

PROFESSIONAL

Hughes Dillard 100 E. Commerce

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-6950

Law Office of Daniel Burkeen

304 E. Commerce, Ste 600

Mexia, TX 76667

254-472-5002

Melinda Gentry

514 Willow Drive

Mexia, TX 76667

325-656-1648

Reed and Reed, LLC 201 N. McKinney

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-5547

REAL ESTATE

Forrest Real Estate 205 E Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2884

Heritage Real Estate 205 N. McKinney

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-7899

Hometown Realty 811 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-3893

Micah Renovato, Realtor

HOM Realty

1716 Briarcrest Drive, #860

Bryan, TX 77802

254-721-7909

Rachel Anderson Real Estate 413 Main St. Teague, TX 75860

254-739-2942

www.rachelandersonrealestate.com

Realty Plus 1006 E Milam St

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2121

Story Real Estate 714 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-6617

RECREATIONAL

Freestone Raceway Park 147 PR 994 Wortham, TX 76693

713-962-3386

Neurothon, LLC

404 S. Dr. JB Riggs Drive

Groesbeck, TX 76642

254-625-0620

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

Hughes City Park

Bonham and Tyler St

Mexia, TX 76667

RESTAURANT & BARS

Coffee Cabaret

602 N. Paris

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-5655

Countryside Café 500 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-472-5070

Farm House Restaurant 1401 E. Milam Street

Mexia, TX 76667

254-472-0512

Jim’s Krispy Chicken 312 E Milam St. Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-5035

Joe Friday’s Diner 601 N Hwy 14

Mexia, TX 76667

254-472-5105

Starbucks 702 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-964-1063

Tacos Jalisco 301 E. Palestine

Mexia, TX 76667

254-472-5155

The Falcon Club 703 N. MLK Jr. Hwy Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-6644

Z-Man’s BBQ (Food Truck/Catering)

Groesbeck TX 76642

703-346-3653

RETAIL/SHOPPING

Bealls Outlet

1009 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

5125299419

https://www.beallsinc.com

Big Baby Bling Boss, LLC

309 E. Commerce

Mexia, TX 76667

903-390-6121

Bi-Stone Building Supply

George Fitch Signs

910 E Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-9341

Blackcat Couture/Mexia Florist

200 E Commerce

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-5555

Clancy & Co/ Old Tin Roof Shoppes

1326 E. Palestine

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-0667

Daisy Doo’s Unique Boutique

109 N. McKinney

Mexia TX 76667

Flatt Stationers

205 N. McKinney

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-3843

Glamour in the Glades

344 LCR 466

Mexia, TX 76667

254-625-0995

H-E-B

701 E. Milam

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-5123

Higginbotham Brothers –Ace Hardware

1001 E. Milam, Suite A Mexia, TX 76667

254-472-4000

Jackson’s True Value 407 E. Commerce

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-3112

Jody Berry – Scentsy Mexia TX 76667

254-645-0546

254-562-6793

http://jodyberry.scentsy.us

Kantor Cattle Beef 962 LCR 496 Mexia, TX 76667

254-747-5987

Kera’s Corner 101 E. Main Mexia, TX 76667 903-388--3992

Manning Enterprises Mexia, TX 76667 832-202-8909

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

Rockin’ Minerals, LLC 301 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667 903-399-3238

Rusty’s Boot & Jeans 1349 E. Milam Mexia TX 76667 254-562-7767

Sandcastle Seasonings 104 N. Railroad St Groesbeck, TX 76642 207-602-8556

Sandcastleseasonings.com

Sassy Sisters Boutique, Salon and Spa 107 N. Sherman

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2222

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

Small Town Tees 207 E Main Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-6966

Southern Grace 501 S. Ellis Groesbeck, TX 76642

254-729-2703

Stage It Out, LLC 1748 W. US 84 Mexia, TX 76667 817-559-2388

Rhonda@stageitout.com www.stageitout.com

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

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

WalMart 1406 E. Milam Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-3831

Weekend Thrift 210 E. Commerce Mexia, TX 76667

254-307-1218

Woodson’s Lumber & Hardware 1127 E Milam Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-9351

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

Jones Funeral Service 931 S Hwy 171 Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-6422

Mexia Pest Control 102 W. Tyler St

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-6565

Pearly Gates Funeral Home 104 E. Commerce

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-2212

www.pearlygatesfh.com

STORAGE

Quality Storage

1604-B N. MLK/Hwy 14 Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-0130

Sumpter Street Storage 1008 Sumpter Street

Mexia, TX 76667

254-625-3364

UTILITIES

Atmos Energy 6464 Hwy 19 South Athens, TX 75751

888-286-6700

Bi-stone Municipal Water Supply 343 LCR Whiterock

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-5922

Republic Services

3054 LCR 460

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-3889

City of Mexia Water Dept 101 S. McKinney

Mexia, TX 76667

254-562-4131

Interested

The biters and stingers are coming out again - avoidance is the best medicine, but if you get ambushed - there are several over the counter options - Sting-EZ and similar preparations will help numb the area, 1% Hydrocortizone cream (HC, Hydrocort, Cort-aid etc) will help reduce the itch/sting and rash. Don’t put clorox on these wounds, it will damage the skin more than is already damaged.

For bees (not wasps) you need to get the stinger out - if you can’t or don’t know how, come see us and we can help.

Email Confidentiality Notice: The information contained in this transmission is confidential, proprietary or privileged and may be subject to protection under the law, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The message is for the sole use of the intended individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that any use, distribution or copying of the message is strictly prohibited and may subject you to criminal or civil penalties. If you received this transmission in error, please contact the sender immediately by replying to this email and delete the material from all computers.

Email Confidentiality Notice: The information contained in this transmission is confidential, proprietary or privileged and may be subject to protection under the law, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The message is for the ole use of the intended individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that any use, distribution or copying of the message is strictly prohibited and may subject you to criminal or civil penalties. If you received this transmission in error, please contact the sender immediately by replying to this email and delete the material from all computers.

Our wonderful team makes the Manor the next best thing to

Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce Welcomes You!

Thank you for your interest in the future of Mexia, Texas and the surrounding area. When you or your business becomes a member of the Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce, you’ve made an investment in our community. Here are a few of the benefits your Chamber strives to provide for you:

We are the Mexia Information Store, here to answer questions from residents, tourists, and potential customers to your business.

We sponsor events and promote tourism, which brings excellent business income.

We sponsor business seminars and networking events to help strengthen your ability to compete in our ever-changing economy.

We offer ribbon cutting ceremonies added publicity of your business.

We inform you of Chamber activities, board actions, and issues impacting Mexia.

We provide free membership directories for networking new business opportunities.

The Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce serves as the most effective voice in the Mexia area for the business community, through which you can join with other business leaders in strengthening the local economy. The most valuable benefit of Chamber membership is that through your membership investment you are providing financial support and joining with fellow business men and women who are investing their time and energy to help the Mexia economy grow. To find our more about becoming a member of the Chamber, please contact 254-562-5569 or email director@mexiachamber.com

Family values doing things right the first time,

minimum

all that

essential

Everyone cares and supports

A letter from Mexia EDC

Recently a stakeholder meeting with local businesses, school districts and other interested parties was held in Mexia. It was a working lunch; and many ideas and needs were discussed. One of the takeaways was knowing that everyone cares and supports our young people in school, those that want to work, those that want to move up, those that are trying to find themselves and really our entire community.

Another takeaway is that there is a great need for students and recent graduates to learn what the business industry calls “soft skills”.

Soft skills are filling out applications properly, dressing for interviews, learning how to interview, listening, language use and, believe it or not, cursive writing. I heard a story the other day about a man that went to the store with a list that was written in cursive. He gave it to the clerk and the clerk looked puzzled and handed the list back to the man and said, “I’m sorry sir, I cannot read cursive.” How have we as a people let this slide by?

There was also a renewed sense to raise the expectations of our community from children in school all the way up through the general population. It is not healthy for us to be without self-starters, ambitions, goals, and personal pride. It was felt that we should not lower the bar of expectations, that is what has caused the problems we face today.

Steve Prefontaine a long-distance runner from Oregon said, “To do less than your best, is to sacrifice the

gift.” We must expect the best and cannot settle for less, these acts will initiate constructive criticism and consequences for behaviors good or bad. Our community, our people of all walks of life have been formed by exceptional work ethics, expectations and morals: not on the melancholy and lazy. Exceptional people became that way because they put forth the effort. If we want to be a great community, we will have to do the same and hold each other to the higher standards.

Lastly, businesses, schools and others will work together to provide opportunities for learning needed skills for success in the local working communities. Navarro College will be offering training and programs to make it happen. Other agencies in the communities will work to empower a person to become employable by offering financial incentives to obtain needed training. Jobs are here, wages are coming up and training is here at reduced or no cost! Please take advantage of the programs that will be offered soon, encourage schoolaged young adults to take a leap of faith and step into the programs. A job and a career will provide self-worth and a sense of freedom and accomplishment that cannot be matched. If we can build self-worth, employ locally and become a skilled workforce then we create a sustainable community that businesses and others will value. Our community will become a place that people seek to be associated with. We all like to be associated with winners and people that put their talents to the test. Our community will become a place of “We got this!”

In closing, looking forward: our community is in the balance of success or going the route of many smaller cities in Texas and our country which is becoming a place where people just pass through. Hope you all don’t want the latter, give those that want to make our communities better a real chance at success. Success should be for everyone that puts in the required blood, sweat and tears! It will require working together, working hard, working through issues and understanding what the goal is. Kenney Chesney sings a song that ask the question can’t we all get along; I encourage you to listen to it, guarantee, young or old, it will lift you up: it goes like this:

Get along, on down the road

We’ve got a long, long way to go

Scared to live, scared to die

We ain’t perfect but we try Get along while we can

Always give love the upper hand Paint a wall, learn to dance

Call your mom, buy a boat

Drink a beer, sing a song

Make a friend, can’t we all get along!

With All Respect,

Jeff Looney

EDC Director

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Business After Hours First quarter 2023 did not disappoint! It was a great turnout, we met some new folks, enjoyed long time supporters, and everyone made lots of connections. We enjoyed some great refreshments and door prizes, shared in some laughs, and enjoyed being a great part of this community through the Chamber. Thank you to everyone who took time to attend! Special Thank You to Taylor Rocheleau, Registered Representative with Nylife Securities, LLC for sponsoring the event. If you missed it - the next one will be in May.

WE THANK ALL OF OUR AREA FIREFIGHTERS AND DEPARTMENTS FOR THEIR CONTINUED PROTECTION.