by Brandon Darrow
As the presidential election day draws near, Americans are bombarded with political ads, slanderous statements from both parties, and many misrepresentation of the facts. My advice – just vote. There are many out there who won’t vote and then criticize the winner of the election. I’m not trying to tell anyone who to vote for but just to take a few minutes and cast your vote for whoever you believe will be the best candidate for the job of president.
On the local front, there are several folks running for school board this year. Incumbents, Eric Mabe, Doug Hall, and Kristi Burnett will all be seeking re-election to their seats as Miller Grove School Trustees. I know of at least three people who have filed their name on the ballot for this year: John Derek Wilbur, Jason Back, and Clark May.
After holding a total of 26 years in office, Lewis Russell has decided not to seek re-election as a school board trustee. Lewis has been on the board during 4 decades (1980s, 1990s, 2000’s, 2010’s) and has seen 3 superintendents come thru the doors of MGISD. And, for two of the decades he has served he didn’t even have a child in school. To me that definitely shows the character of a person who cares about their school and their community. From not having enough money to make payroll in the early 80’s to having been a part of six buildings being built on campus, Lewis has pretty much seen it all. He was a Miller Grove High School graduate in 1971 and was elected to the school board for the first time in May of 1985. After a brief 4 years off of the school board he returned in 2004 and currently holds the office of Vice-President. Lewis was even honored Monday, Oct. 17, with a plaque presented to him by the board president, Eric Mabe, at his last official school board meeting.
My sincere condolences go out to the family of C.L. “Butch” Hall this week. Clarence Loyd Hall was born Aug. 4, 1940, in Miller Grove, the youngest of three children born to Clarence Clyde Hall and Nell Roberta (Garrett) Hall. He married Doris Ann Middleton on Sept. 4, 1959, in County Line. Butch worked hard to grow is trucking and agriculture business. He helped the local economy and employed many people in Miller Grove and many of the Miller Grove youth over the years. Butch had a special relationship with all of his grandchildren – most of whom had been employed at Miller Grove Farm Supply during their life. He was also a member of County Line Baptist Church. Butch passed on Oct. 14, at Trinity Mother Frances Hospital of Tyler. Graveside services were held in Clifton Cemetery on Oct. 18, with Bro. Wayne Darty officiating. Burial followed in the cemetery and Wilson-Orwosky Funeral Home of Emory was in charge of arrangements. He was preceded in death by his parents; one infant son, Jason Hall; and sisters Jerry Jane (Hall) Watts and Anna Jean (Hall) Morris. He is survived by his wife of 57 years; one son, Doug Hall; one daughter, Lori Hall; grandchildren, Ryan Claxton, Kelli (Claxton) Urda, Ashley Claxton, Katie (Hall) Hooks, Nicole Hall, Connor Hall, & Kamryn Hall; and great-grandchildren, Rhett Claxton, Kinzley Urda, and Lexton Urda.
Even in hard times God gives us blessings. The day after Butch Hall’s funeral, his and Doris’ fourth great-grandchild was born. Kelli (Claxton) Urda and husband Eric Urda welcomed little Preslie Harris Urda into this world on Oct. 19 at 1:18 pm. She weighed 6 lbs, 7 oz, and was 18 ½ inches long. He was also welcomed by big sister and brother, Kinsley & Lexton. Congratulations to their growing family.
Don’t forget the Fall Carnival scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 27. This is a big fundraiser for the entire school – all grade levels are involved as well as the PTO. And be sure to come with an appetite. Stew and chili will be served in the new gym with carnival games out front in the parking lot.
County Line Baptist Church recently finished pouring the concrete around the new church building. Gail Garmon told me that they are working out the details for a dedication service on Dec. 11, from 2-4 pm. I’m sure there will be more details to come.
Happy Birthday this coming week to Jeff Wren on Oct. 23, Dichele Smith on Oct. 25, Cayle Watson on Oct. 26, Kevin Tipps on Oct. 28, and Billy Dunn, Terry Jill (McGowan) Asbill & Will Sallee, Jr. on Oct. 29.
Happy 6th anniversary to Cory and Callie (Smith) Glove on Oct. 23 and Happy 5th wedding anniversary to James and Ashley (Blackstead) Oler on Oct. 29.
As you travel the highways and byways don’t forget that all roads lead back home and back to Miller Grove. Please send me any newsworthy information. My email address is [email protected].
