Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 22, 2023 Beginning next week, The Lakelander will make changes to our free coverage area. This will have no impact on our readers with a Whitney mailing address in the 76692 zip code or to those in Clifton’s 76634 zip code, but those residing outside of these areas will no longer … Continue reading A Note To Our Readers About Circulation Changes
Council approves purchase of new water meters
Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 22, 2023 The Whitney City Council voted to replace water meters in the city with smart meters at a meeting held Thursday, March 16. The council's action follows a pilot program in which the meters were tested in select locations throughout the city. Public Works Director Billy Pribble told the council … Continue reading Council approves purchase of new water meters
Hill County Day In Austin
Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 22, 2023 Hill County residents traveled to Austin Thursday, March 16, as both the state House of Representatives and Senate passed resolutions observing Hill County Day at the State Capitol. Representative Angelia Orr of Itasca and Senator Brian Birdwell each personally welcomed their Hill County constituents to Austin, and the group … Continue reading Hill County Day In Austin
Boat accident claims life of local resident
March 22, 2023 Two Whitney residents were involved in a boat crash Monday, March 13, that resulted in the death of one individual. The Lakelander was withholding the name of the victim at press time over the weekend pending an official release from authorities. According to reports, the accident occurred on the Brazos River in … Continue reading Boat accident claims life of local resident
Court hears about Blum, Covington area solar farm
Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 22, 2023 The Hill County Commissioners Court met in a regular session Tuesday, March 14, and heard a presentation from a solar company that is planning a project in the northwestern portion of the county. Midpoint Solar obtained Chapter 313 Value Limitation Agreements with both Blum and Covington school districts prior … Continue reading Court hears about Blum, Covington area solar farm
Elvis-themed Big Event Weekend set at Bosque Arts Center
Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 22, 2023 Award-winning tribute artist Al Joslin headlines the Bosque Arts Center Big Event Saturday, April 1. Tickets are available online at BosqueArtsCenter.org. The Bosque Arts Center (BAC) in Clifton encourages the public to get their tickets soon for Big Event weekend, when the theme will be all about Elvis. Friday, … Continue reading Elvis-themed Big Event Weekend set at Bosque Arts Center
View the March 22, 2023 issue
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WISD board votes to increase retention stipends
Reporter: Ellie Mahan March 15, 2023 The Whitney Independent School District Board of Trustees met in a regular session Monday, March 6, to approve an increase in the retention stipends for all WISD employees, discuss the future possibility of repaving the parking lot near the bus barn and hear other reports. In August, the board … Continue reading WISD board votes to increase retention stipends
Fellowship of Retired Coaches founder seeks local members
Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 15, 2023 Retired high school coach Mitch Reed recently moved from the Houston area with his wife to build a home in the Lake Whitney area. He founded Fellowship of Retired Coaches in 2020 and is working to add members to the group. He is pictured above with his father, Bob … Continue reading Fellowship of Retired Coaches founder seeks local members
Waco man sentenced for 2020 murder in Walmart parking lot
Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 15, 2023 Alexander Santana Aleman. October 2020 booking photo A Waco man who was arrested after the October 2020 murder of a Fort Worth woman in the Hillsboro Walmart parking lot was recently sentenced to 35 years in prison in the 66th Judicial District Court. U.S. Marshals served an arrest warrant … Continue reading Waco man sentenced for 2020 murder in Walmart parking lot
Scammers target area using Hill County numbers
Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 15, 2023 Hill County Judge Justin Lewis announced Friday, March 10, that scammers have been making calls from numbers that show up as Hill County Courthouse office numbers. Residents have reported receiving threatening calls from numbers that appear to be from an official county office, such as the county judge’s office. … Continue reading Scammers target area using Hill County numbers
Boys powerlifting team finds success
Nine members of the Whitney High School boys powerlifting team advanced to the regional competition in West held Saturday, March 11, and Giovanni Sanchez, pictured above, advanced to the state competition with a fifth-place finish in his weight class and a qualifying total of 850 pounds. Trey Haynes also placed fourth in his class at … Continue reading Boys powerlifting team finds success
Hill County Grand Jury returns indictments
March 16, 2023 A Hill County Grand Jury that convened Friday, March 3, returned the following indictments: Peyton Belvin, 30, of Caddo, Oklahoma, possession of THC between one and four grams Jason James Bush, 24, of Burleson, assault of a family or household member, impeding breath or circulation; assault of a family or household member, … Continue reading Hill County Grand Jury returns indictments
View the March 15, 2023 issue
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Commissioners set hearings on solar reinvestment zones
Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 8, 2023 The Hill County Commissioners Court scheduled public hearings on the creation of two reinvestment zones for Hill County solar projects during a regular meeting held Tuesday, February 28. Designation of an area as a reinvestment zone is a step that must be taken before the county can provide a … Continue reading Commissioners set hearings on solar reinvestment zones
Wildcats, coach earn district honors
March 9, 2023 Whitney High School basketball player Cade Baker (right) is pictured with Tristen Wilson (left), after Baker was awarded District MVP and Wilson was awarded 6th Man of The Year honors. Head Coach Joe O’Hearn also earned top recognition as coach of the year when all-district honors were announced. Other Wildcats honored were: … Continue reading Wildcats, coach earn district honors
FFA Day at Texas State Capitol
Reporter: Ellie Mahan March 8, 2023 Members of the Whitney Future Farmers of America (FFA) officer team recently traveled to Austin for Texas FFA Day at The Capitol and a Texas FFA LEAD (Leadership, Education, Advocacy, Development) program. Students were able to hear from a variety of leaders, including Jordan Hale, deputy chief of staff … Continue reading FFA Day at Texas State Capitol
Powerlifters qualify for state
Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 8, 2023 The Whitney High School girls powerlifting team competed in the regional meet Saturday, March 4, in Dublin and two girls will be advancing to state. Bayley Brisco (right) advanced after earning second in her weight division with a total of 755 pounds lifted. Lillian Dunn (left) will advance as … Continue reading Powerlifters qualify for state
View the March 8, 2023 issue
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New Fire Chief David Gilmore brings decades of experience to his role
Reporter: Ellie Mahan March 1, 2023 Chief David Gilmore and his wife, Lisa David Gilmore started his new role as Whitney fire chief Wednesday, February 1. Gilmore recently retired from Mansfield Fire Department after over 27 years of service. Gilmore got his start in public service at the Bosque County Sheriff’s Office, where he started … Continue reading New Fire Chief David Gilmore brings decades of experience to his role
Wildcats wrap up successful season
March 1, 2023 The Whitney High School varsity boys basketball team ended their season as bi-district champions after defeating Mildred 78-64 Monday, February 20. The Wildcats exited the playoffs in the area round Friday, February 24, after a 71-64 loss to Franklin. The team entered the playoffs as the 3A Region III District 17 champions. … Continue reading Wildcats wrap up successful season
Candidates file for spots in Covington and Blum
Editor: Shannon Cottongame March 1, 2023 Elections will be needed in both Covington and Blum after the filing period for the May election date came to a close recently. The City of Covington will need an election to fill three seats on its council. Marcos Soto (seat one) and Garrett Woodlee (seat 5) were uncontested. … Continue reading Candidates file for spots in Covington and Blum
Lone Star Healing Arts and Fitness now open in downtown Whitney
Business Review March 1, 2023 Elizabeth Giancola and Matthew Wetherbee, owners of Lone Star Healing Arts and Fitness. Lone Star Healing Arts and Fitness is here to support your health and wellness needs. The business recently opened at 120 West Washington Avenue, across from A Daughter’s Dream in Downtown Whitney. Owners Elizabeth Giancola, MS, OTR/L … Continue reading Lone Star Healing Arts and Fitness now open in downtown Whitney
WIS, WMS release A Honor Roll
March 1, 2023 Whitney Intermediate School and Whitney Middle School recently released lists of students who earned all A's for the fourth six weeks. Whitney Intermediate School students who made the A Honor Roll include: third grade- Madlyn Abrego, Kaylynn Burrows, Gracin Halbert, Houston Hill, Perseus Johnson, Jameson Jones, Gage Motley, Serenity Nors, Daniel Ormonde-Rodriquez, … Continue reading WIS, WMS release A Honor Roll
View the March 1, 2023 issue
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Council selects engineer, surveyor for wastewater treatment plant project
Editor: Shannon Cottongame February 22, 2023 The Whitney City Council met in a regular session Thursday, February 16, and approved a proposal for engineering and surveying services related to the city's wastewater treatment plant. Public Works Director Billy Pribble provided background information on the issues with the plant, which has had Texas Commission on Environmental … Continue reading Council selects engineer, surveyor for wastewater treatment plant project
Lady Bobcats wrap up successful season
February 22, 2023 The Blum High School girls varsity basketball team ended its season after a loss in the area round of the UIL playoffs to Rochelle 54-49 Thursday, February 16, in Hamilton. The Lady Bobcats end the 2022-2023 season as District 20-1A champions and with a bi-district championship after defeating Lingleville 40-38 in the … Continue reading Lady Bobcats wrap up successful season
County to participate in Hillsboro TIRZ
Editor: Shannon Cottongame February 22, 2023 The Hill County Commissioners Court agreed to participate in the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) established by the City of Hillsboro for the outlet mall property and selected inmate medical services providers during a meeting held Tuesday, February 14. The City of Hillsboro established the TIRZ to support its … Continue reading County to participate in Hillsboro TIRZ
WES recognized at board meeting for passing intruder detection inspection
Reporter: Ellie Mahan February 22, 2023 The Whitney Independent School District Board of Trustees met in a regular session Monday, February 13, and congratulated Whitney Elementary School for earning a perfect score on its intruder detection inspection. The board also discussed the elementary school’s middle of the year testing data and other agenda items. The … Continue reading WES recognized at board meeting for passing intruder detection inspection
Lady Cougars advance in playoffs
February 22, 2023 The Aquilla High School girls basketball team was set to advance to the regional quarterfinal round of the playoffs Tuesday evening, February 21. The Lady Cougars beat Penelope 63-23 in the bi-district round Monday, February 13, before getting a 57-19 win over Chester in the area round Friday, February 17. Team members … Continue reading Lady Cougars advance in playoffs
Grand jury returns February indictments
February 22, 2023 A Hill County Grand Jury that convened Friday, February 10, returned the following indictments: Timothy Jon Abernathy, 60, of Waco, possession of methamphetamine under one gram Keonisha Brown, 27, of Hillsboro, possession of methamphetamine under one gram Amber Denise Catham, 33, of Hillsboro, assault family violence, impeding breath with previous conviction Demetrius … Continue reading Grand jury returns February indictments
View the February 22, 2023 issue
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Chief Hughes shares his vision for the Whitney Police Department
Reporter: Ellie Mahan February 15, 2023 Police Chief Kevin Hughes Kevin Hughes, who started his first day in his new position as Whitney police chief Tuesday, January 10, spent decades serving in numerous leadership roles at the Richardson Police Department, and he plans to utilize his law enforcement and leadership background while on the job. … Continue reading Chief Hughes shares his vision for the Whitney Police Department
Wildcats and Lady Cougars are district champs
February 15, 2023 The Whitney High School varsity boys basketball team (10-2) sealed the district championship with a 67-66 win over Grandview Tuesday, February 7. Pictured are (l to r): Duan Johnson, Marcus Wilson, Jairdyn Anderson, Tristan Wilson, Eli Headley, Cade Baker, Colby Estill, Weazle Johnson, Mason Seely, Trey Haynes, Jordan Johnson. Pictured with the … Continue reading Wildcats and Lady Cougars are district champs
Whitney Ridge to celebrate grand opening in March
Business Review Advertisement written by Ellie Mahan February 15, 2023 Whitney Ridge Marina and RV Resort offers breathtaking views. Whitney Ridge Marina and RV Resort, located at 167 County Road 1710 in Clifton, plans to open its doors to the public Wednesday, March 1. Gerry McDowell, owner and managing partner of Whitney Ridge, bought the … Continue reading Whitney Ridge to celebrate grand opening in March
View the February 15, 2023 issue
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Efforts of local youth pay off at Hill County Fair auctions
Editor: Shannon Cottongame February 9, 2023 Winning Creative Arts Division entries created by Hill County youth went on the auction block at the county fair Friday night, January 27. Taking top honors were: Eli Buzbee, Lakyn Kettler, Gage Fuchs, Benjamin Cockerham, Brexley Harrison, Liam Smith, Lydia Withers, Anistyn Whalen, Joshua Moore, Timothy Harman-Deal, Thanh Borden, … Continue reading Efforts of local youth pay off at Hill County Fair auctions
New agent joins team at Sauer & Associates
Advertisement written by Ellie Mahan February 9, 2023 Business Review Hunter Brooks is pictured with fiancé Cloey Edwards Sauer & Associates Real Estate, owned by Paul and Gretchen Sauer and established in June 2012, would like to introduce a new real estate agent, Hunter Brooks of Brooks Masonry. Brooks graduated with honors from Texas Tech … Continue reading New agent joins team at Sauer & Associates
Texans urged to report ice storm damage
Editor: Shannon Cottongame February 9, 2023 Governor Greg Abbott is urging Texans impacted by last week’s winter weather to report property damage by submitting an online iSTAT damage assessment survey. Ice accumulation in north, central and west Texas resulted in broken tree branches affecting power lines and causing localized power outages. "The State of Texas … Continue reading Texans urged to report ice storm damage
WHS Guardians compete in Garland
The Whitney High School Guardians color guard team had its first competition of winter guard season recently at Naaman Forest High School in Garland. The Guardians placed second in their round and third overall in their classification. By receiving a score of 56.56, the Guardians were also moved up to the next classification. Their next … Continue reading WHS Guardians compete in Garland
View the February 8, 2023 issue
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Commissioners approve project to improve local radio coverage
Editor: Shannon Cottongame February 1, 2023 Hill County commissioners approved a proposal to improve public safety communications in the northwestern portion of the county during a meeting held Tuesday, January 24. Radio Administrator Chris Jackson told the court that there is still a problem with radio coverage in the Blum area with the county's new … Continue reading Commissioners approve project to improve local radio coverage
Hill County Fair Grand Champion
Editor: Shannon Cottongame February 1, 2023 Keeli Peters of Whitney FFA showed the grand champion market steer at the Hill County Fair. The steer brought $15,100 during Saturday's market auction from the following buyers: Citizens State Bank, Rocking W Energy Services, Watt Wealth Management, First National Bank of Central Texas, Cielo Energy Consulting, Rafael Hernandez … Continue reading Hill County Fair Grand Champion
State broadband map shows many areas are underserved
Editor: Shannon Cottongame February 1, 2023 The Texas Broadband Development Map shows the availability of various types of high-speed internet access across Texas. Blue areas represent served populations, and yellow areas represent underserved populations. Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar has announced the release of the Texas Broadband Development Map, which uses data collected from internet service … Continue reading State broadband map shows many areas are underserved
Mayor Barker recognized by HOTEDD
Editor: Shannon Cottongame February 1, 2023 Whitney Mayor Jerry Barker received an Outstanding Leadership Chair Award for 2022 from the Heart of Texas Economic Development District (HOTEDD) Thursday, January 26. Barker was appointed to the HOTEDD board in October 2004 and is the only director to serve as chairman of the board twice, in 2015 … Continue reading Mayor Barker recognized by HOTEDD
Best-selling author to speak in Whitney
Reporter: Ellie Mahan February 1, 2023 Damon West, inspirational speaker and philanthropist, will speak at an event open to the public Sunday, February 5, at Open Range Cowboy Church in Whitney. The Whitney Fellowship Worship Band will perform from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., and West will speak at 6 p.m. Organizers encourage community members … Continue reading Best-selling author to speak in Whitney
View the February 1, 2023 issue
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Lake Whitney Ministerial Alliance: Did You Know?
Submitted by Betty Newman,LWMA public relations,past president February 1, 2023 Did you know that the following organizations and programs are supported by the Lake Whitney Ministerial Alliance? Our Daily Bread Food Bank – Each month, at least 30 - 45 volunteers work tirelessly to provide groceries to those who cannot afford to buy food. In … Continue reading Lake Whitney Ministerial Alliance: Did You Know?
Council discusses ESD 1 contract renewal
Editor: Shannon Cottongame January 25, 2023 The Whitney City Council met in a regular session Thursday, January 19, to discuss renewal of the city's contract with Emergency Services District (ESD) 1, hear departmental reports and review other monthly business. Interim Fire Chief Roy McCleary and Wayland Price, the city's former fire chief, spoke to the … Continue reading Council discusses ESD 1 contract renewal
City Council selects next fire chief
Reporter: Ellie Mahan January 25, 2023 The Whitney City Council held a special meeting Tuesday, January 17 to interview two potential candidates for Whitney fire chief, and the council selected David Gilmore to fill the position. Gilmore is retiring from Mansfield Fire Department, with almost 30 years of firefighting experience. He said that he feels … Continue reading City Council selects next fire chief
Hill County Fair Queen Crowned
Juleisee Gonzales of Hillsboro was crowned Hill County Fair queen during the annual contest held at Hill College Saturday, January 14. Pictured are (l to r): front row—McKenzie Cutrer (Whitney) - princess and Miss Congeniality, Gonzales - queen and best introduction, Abbey Jo Wohleb (Whitney) - duchess; back row—Kathy Virrueta (Itasca) - Judges' Award, Morgan … Continue reading Hill County Fair Queen Crowned
Lake Whitney photo exhibit opens Thursday
Editor: Shannon Cottongame January 25, 2023 An exhibit featuring the Lake Whitney photography of Hillsboro resident Sheri Hemrick will open at the fotografías gallery in downtown Hillsboro Thursday, January 26. A Toast with the Artist event will kick off the exhibit at 5 p.m., when Hemrick will be present and attendees can enjoy wine and … Continue reading Lake Whitney photo exhibit opens Thursday
LW Chamber members elect five directors
Editor: Shannon Cottongame January 25, 2023 The Lake Whitney Chamber of Commerce announced last week that directors have been elected to serve on the chamber's board. After chamber members returned their ballots, those elected included Steve Peacock of Citizens National Bank, Adam Bain of Lake Whitney State Park, Joe Marek of HILCO, Whitney ISD Superintendent … Continue reading LW Chamber members elect five directors
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