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.

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., 21, is facing a federal charge for...

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.The City had received concerns from residents regarding deteriorated roadway...

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...

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.The newsletter is meant to be a comprehensive overview of recent initiatives,...

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.“This is a lengthy process, as this process will start in three years, but it should significantly help alleviate traffic congestion...

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.