July 2021

Madisonville’s Sidnie Smith (left) and Grace Williamson(right), who competed in their senior seasons for the Lady Mustangs softball team in 2021, were named to the state’s All-Academic squad for their performances in the classroom last year. Smith will attend Vernon College to play volleyball while Williamson attends Temple College to play volleyball. PHOTOS BY CAMPBELL ATKINS

Madisonville Care Center resident Erah Prestwood, originally of Alabama, celebrated her 105th birthday on Thursday. Care Center personnel made sure to mark the major milestone with a special party featuring cake and balloons. PHOTOS BY DEBBIE HOSKINS

Some things at the Museum seldom change. The Truman Kimbro exhibit is permanent, as is another dedicated to the courthouses of Madison County. The case full of arrowheads stays, and one of the photos from local communities doesn’t change much or often. But if all stays the same, why should you make another visit?

With COVID restrictions lifted statewide and summer vacations still an option before school gets started next month, I sincerely hope you and your family will consider making the trip to Austin for a history and civics lesson at your State Capitol. And with the Legislature in the midst of a Special Session, there’s no better time to see your government in action. As a reminder, my Capitol office is always open to you, and my staff is more than happy to show you around. We can arrange for a tour of the State Capitol or even give recommendations of places of interest in the area, such as the Governor’s Mansion, Texas State Cemetery, or the Bob Bullock State History Museum. Hope to see you soon!

Mackie shares that the Bedias Library will resume regular hours the first week of August. If you would like to volunteer to help keep the library open and active, please give Mackie a call at 936-355-0642. Please go to www.facebook.com/BediasLibrary.home for more information and updates.