FM 878 narrows near Palmer starting Jan. 12

 ELLIS COUNTY – Weather permitting, FM 878 will narrow to one lane over Bone Branch Creek west of Palmer starting 8 a.m. Monday, Jan. 12 through May. This upcoming work is a part of a $2 million bridge improvement project.

21-year-old Midlothian man charged with international terrorism for supporting ISIS

 MIDLOTHIAN – An alleged ISIS sympathizer from Midlothian is facing charges for international terrorism, after reportedly delivering bomb materials to an undercover FBI agent he thought was a terrorist, according to the Dallas Express.John Michael Garza Jr.

TRAFFIC: January traffic advisories, closures in Ellis County

 ELLIS COUNTY – So you don’t end up in heavy traffic this month, here’s a list of Ellis County road improvements, lane closures and new stop signs.In Ovilla, roadway marking improvements are underway as of this past Monday.

First Ellis County fire for new year in Red Oak

 Red Oak, Lancaster and Waxahachie Fire Departments were called to a house fire on Methodist Street in Red Oak on New Year’s Eve.One resident several miles away said there was a noise that sounded like a cannon.A source who asked not to be named said it appeared fireworks started the initial fire.

POLITICS: Republican candidate forums set

 Opportunities to hear from the Republican candidates before the Primary will be held: Friday, Jan 9 – 5:30Waxahachie Civic Ctr.Civic Center Ln., WaxahachieTuesday, Jan. 27 – 5:30Midlothian Conference Ctr.1 Community Dr., Midlothian

Ovilla offers residents progress achievement newsletter

 OVILLA – For residents desiring to stay up-to-date on the latest happenings in Ovilla, the city will be offering a community progress and achievement newsletter at https://heyzine.com/flip-book/40ef2e0ae4.html.

TxDOT approves Palmer stop light, completed city projects

 PALMER – Palmer officials reported TxDOT has approved moving forward with plans for a stoplight at the city’s three-way stop, along with adding additional turn lanes.

TRAFFIC: Midlothian through traffic for trucks ordinances add additional restrictions

 MIDLOTHIAN – In late October 2025, the Midlothian City Council approved an ordinance 6-0 restricting through heavy trucks on Midlothian Parkway between Main Street and a location north of Mockingbird Lane.This ordinance is set to go into effect on Feb. 1, 2026.

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: Two old friends ringing in a new year together, again

 Some scenes stick with you for a lifetime, kind of like my old Georgia red clay.Proceed carefully today, because the scenes coming up will stay with you a very long time.I am sure of it.I began sharing this particular one with you many years ago.

OUT TO PASTOR: Where in the world did last year go?

 It was New Year’s Day, and I got up before The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage.I poured my coffee and then sat in my easy chair to reflect on the day.I was trying to get all the things in order I was planning to do today.