Midlothian ISD state accountability rating increases after appeal

 MIDLOTHIAN – The Midlothian ISD recently announced its overall state rating increased to a score of 87.The most recent ratings included a notable change at MISD high schools, which therefore increased the district’s overall score to the final 87.

Travis Bruton elected as Mayor Pro Tem of Glenn Heights

 GLENN HEIGHTS – Glenn Heights’ Place 3 city councilmember Travis Bruton was unanimously elected to the Mayor Pro Tem position earlier this month.This will be Bruton’s first time as Mayor Pro Tem.

PET TALK: Let it SNOW!

 This season often brings opportunities to experience snow or travel with pets to snowy locations, and as a responsible pet owner, it is essential to plan ahead and prepare accordingly to make sure you’re prepared for hypothermia risks.

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: This life story begins in 1973 (kind of) part 106

 After almost three years, we’ve come to the final segment of our story. It truly is a story of a lifetime and will live on for a long, long, time, I suppose forever. Thanks for coming along on the journey.– Coach “Whatever happened to that half dollar, Popman?” Cheyenne asked.

SPEAKING TRUTH: Are you a two-faced Christian?

 Why do we do it?We always want to have it both ways. Someone like this we might call, “two-faced.”In the bestselling book, “Pilgrims Progress,” there was a character called, “Mr. Facing-Both Ways.

OUT TO PASTOR: When it comes to gifts, I’m not gifted

 Christmas is my favorite holiday. A time of celebration and enjoying family time together.It wasn’t always my favorite holiday.There was a time when my birthday was my favorite holiday of the year.

The great timing debate: Should I claim Social Security early or late?

STATEPOINT – Retirees become eligible to claim Social Security benefits at age 62, but the timing of when you claim can drastically impact your benefit amount. Still, when to claim will be entirely dependent on your unique situation.

FERRIS PUBLIC LIBRARY: More than Books (December 18, 2025)

 Make the Ferris Public Library part of your December plans!Whether you need holiday reads, a quiet place to study, or want to join in on one of our fun programs, we’re here for you.We have 2 holiday programs scheduled for Dec. 22. From 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

LOCAL STUDENT UPDATE (December 18, 2025)

Local students graduating from the University of Texas at Tyler during the 2025 Fall Semester include: Mauricio Hernandez and Jennifer Zmolik of Ennis; Valeria Guerrero of Ferris; Joshua Hicks and Caeci Page of Midlothian; Pamela Rodriguez of Ovilla; Gavin Miller, Claire Tennery and Hadeel Zourkout...

ELLIS COUNTY ARRESTS (December 9 – 15)

Hughes, Ashton, 37, evading arrest/detention w/vehicle Felony 3, bench warrant.Gainus, Jaresa, 35, burglary of habitation Felony 2.Hawkins, Marquryon, 26, unl poss firearm by felon Felony 3.Monroe, Jeremi, 18, indecency w/child sexual contact Felony 2.