2021 YEAR IN REVIEW

JAN. 6,2021

NAVASOTA POLICE RECOVER STOLEN DIRT BIKE

Navasota Police Officers arrested Earnest Cantu, 18, from Navasota after he was discovered riding through town on a stolen dirt bike.

POACHING SUSPECTS ARRESTED

Three poaching suspects, Timoteo Serrano Lopez, 54, from Navasota; Wilmer Flores Sr., 43, from Washington; and Wilmer Flores Jr., 19, from Washington, were arrested Sunday, Dec. 27 after they were caught illegally hunting on private property south of Millican.

CAN’T ERASE THE EVIDENCE

A single-vehicle accident Saturday, Jan. 2, led to the arrest of Sebastian Domingo, 20, from Navasota for drug possession and vandalism charges.

JAN. 13,2021

OVERSIZED LOAD CAUSES POWER OUTAGE

A large truck hauling an oversized load on Washington Avenue in Navasota took out multiple powerlines Friday, Jan. 8, causing power outages and blocking the roadway for several hours.

LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW …

Grimes County residents gleefully welcomed snow in the area Sunday, Jan. 10. An avalanche of social media posts spread joy with everyone anxious to show off natures wonder that rarely visits Grimes County. Although most enjoyed the winter wonderland from home, law enforcement responded to many traffic calls from pedestrians that were unable to navigate the icy roadways.

A HERO’S SALUTE FOR ‘COWBOY COP COLBY’

Law enforcement agencies joined forces to give a hero’s sendoff to 5-year old Colby Lee Gladney of Bedias after his life was lost from injuries sustained in an automobile accident Dec. 12 in Huntsville. Colby, who passed away a day after his birthday, dreamed of being a “cowboy cop.”

JAN. 20,2021

SUBMERGED VEHICLE REPORTED STOLEN

An abandoned 2018 Nissan Rougue was pulled from the Brazos River Tuesday, Jan. 19. The vehicle was reported stolen out of Houston the day before.

CRIME STOPPERS 2020 AWARDS PRESENTED

A crowd of 100-plus was on hand Jan. 16 at the Knights of Columbus Hall for the announcement of the Grimes County Crime Stoppers Officer of the Year, the winner of the first-ever Meritorious Service Award, and presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award to a very surprised recipient.

GRIMES COUNTY LOSES A GENTLE GIANT

A personal account by Connie Clements

There are times when the words just don’t come, and one of those was when I learned of the untimely passing of Jim-Bob Trant this past Tuesday. While my relationship with Jim-Bob was not a long one in “Grimes County time,” meeting him in 2010 would form the basis of several friendships to come later.

JAN. 27,2021

OPEN CONTAINERS APPROVED IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

The Navasota City Council held a Regular Meeting Monday, Jan. 25, and unanimously approved Ordinance No. 951-21, amending alcohol sales, authorizing nonglass open alcohol containers in the Historic Downtown and Central Business District.

VICTIM CRITICALLY INJURED IN TODD MISSION SHOOTING

A shooting Sunday afternoon, Jan. 24 in Todd Mission left one victim critically injured and four suspects still at large.

VARIANCE REQUEST GENERATES COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Navasota City Council approved Ordinance 950-21 granting a variance request to Blanch Steward waiving the minimum required 750-square feet for residential dwellings for construction of a 288-square foot structure at 101 Abraham Street. The structure will be utilized as a home for Steward who is a retired city employee who suffers from cataracts causing him to be legally blind.

FEB. 3, 2021

‘BLOWEN’ THROUGH THE COMPETITION

Modifications were made to comply with COVID-19 recommendations but the annual Grimes County Go Texan Barbecue Cookoff went off without a hitch Friday and Saturday, Jan. 29-30.

THREE LIVES LOST IN HWY. 90 FATALITY

A head-on-crash in Anderson Friday afternoon, Jan. 29, left three deceased and one seriously injured.

IOLA MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG, WEAPON CHARGES

An Iola man, 32-year-old Brian Wright, was arrested by Department of Public Safety Troopers Saturday, Jan. 30, on Texas State Highway 30 in College Station after a routine traffic stop led to the recovery of numerous illegal drugs and a firearm.

FEB. 10, 2021

CONCERNS ADDRESSED IN AUSTIN

A group consisting of Navasota City Manager Brad Stafford, Navasota Council member Pattie Pederson Navasota Economic Development Specialist Rayna Willenbrink, Navasota ISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stu Musick and Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Johnny McNally visited with Sen. Charles Schwertner and Rep. Ben Leman Thursday, Feb. 4.

MAYNARD SWORN IN AS NEW TREASURER

New Grimes County Treasurer Tom Maynard was sworn in by Grimes County Judge Joe Fauth Thursday, Feb. 4.

FEB. 17, 2021

FAMILY LOSES HOME DURING WINTER FIRE

A fireplace warming a local family of five during extreme temperatures may have been the cause of a fire that consumed their home in flames late Monday night, Feb. 15

CITY OF NAVASOTA DRAINED

Navasota was without water for over 12 hours beginning Thursday, Feb. 11, after a contractor hired to add drainage to Railroad Street busted a 12-inch water main.

ARCTIC BLAST HITS GRIMES COUNTY

Grimes County received another round of snow Sunday, Feb. 14, But although some have enjoyed it, the frigid temperatures have been a nuisance for most due to multiple power outages throughout the county.

NATURE’S CALL LEADS TO ARREST

Three adult males and one juvenile male were arrested in connection to a Jan. 24, shooting and aggravated robbery on Acorn Lane in Todd Mission that left the victim, Wayne Garcia, critically injured with two gunshot wounds.

FEB. 24, 2021

UNPRECEDENTED STORMS WREAK HAVOC ON TEXAS

A season of love turned into a season of cold, darkness and death as winter storms plummeted through Texas beginning Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, dumping over five inches of snowfall.

REYES SENTENCED 25 YEARS FOR ASSAULT OF A CHILD

Joseph “JoJo” Castulo Reyes, 34, pled guilty to aggravated sexual assault of a child and sexual assault of a child Monday, Feb. 22, before the 12th District Court Judge David Moorman. Reyes was sentenced to 25-years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice system.

TOWN HALL BREAKS GROUND FOR EXPANSION

The Plantersville community and elected officials gathered at the Plantersville Town Hall Monday, Feb. 22, to break ground for an 875-square foot addition.

MARCH 3, 2021

AFTERNOON FIRE CLAIMS WHITEHALL HOME

A home on County Road 323 was a total loss after a fire ignited Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 24 and spread quickly. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

EXTREME HEAT FORECAST FOR DEBATE BETWEEN ENERGY EXPERTS, ELECTED OFFICIALS ON WINTER STORM FAILURES

Thawed out from last week’s deep freeze and mostly able to bathe or shower, Texans are demanding answers as to why they were left without power during the worst of the weather emergency. At least 36 people died from the cold or carbon monoxide poisoning across the Lone Star state.

MIDSOUTH RESPONDS TO BANKRUPTCY OF MAIN SUPPLIER

Brazos Valley Electric Power Cooperative Inc. (Brazos Electric) – which is the primary wholesale electrical provider for MidSouth Electric Cooperative in Navasota – announced it has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Due in part to the extreme weather conditions that swept through Texas beginning Valentine’s Day which caused unexpected financial obligations, Brazos Electric said they initiated this financial restructuring to maintain the stability and protect the integrity of its entire system.

MARCH 10, 2021

LEGALLY BLIND PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY TRAIN

A Union Pacific Railroad train heading southbound struck Blanch Steward, 71 from Navasota, near Abraham Street in Navasota Tuesday, March 2. Steward later succumbed to his injuries. Navasota Fire Department located Steward on the east side of the tracks and he was unresponsive. Steward was transported via ambulance to St. Joseph Grimes Hospital then air-lifted to Bryan St. Joseph Hospital. He died from his injuries Wednesday, March 3.

CELEBRATING TEXAS

Over 10,000 people enjoyed music, dancing, food, friends and family in downtown Navasota at the ninth annual Texas Birthday Bash Friday, March 5 and Saturday, March 6. Headliner Tracy Lawrence was mesmerized when he stepped on stage and saw the amount of people celebrating the birth of Texas. Performers played with more passion after a year of reduced performances due to COVID-19 restrictions.

WARRANT UNCOVERS MULTIPLE STOLEN VEHICLES

Information received from Texas A&M University Police Department Detectives led to the arrest of Joseph Adam McBride after large quantities of stolen property were recovered at his residence. Grimes County Investigators along with TAMU detectives executed a search warrant for stolen property at McBride’s residence on County Road 174 Wednesday, March 3.

MARCH 17, 2021

GC CRIME STOPPERS HONORS SUPPORTERS

Receiving Grimes County Crime Stoppers 2021 Honorary Member status at the March 4 meeting for their continued support of GCCS events were Ana Cosino and the Navasota Examiner, Kenny Graves of Willie 1550 and 98.7 and Brett Bratcher of B&T Tactical. Gage and Blanca Gandy of Gage Gandy Bail Bonds were presented Honorary Member status as Meal Sponsors at the January law enforcement awards dinner.

THREE RATTLERS CONTINUING FOOTBALL CAREER

Three Navasota Rattler football players will continue their education and football playing careers at the collegiate level signing a National Letter of Intent Wednesday, March 10 at the Navasota High School library. Sammy Mallard and Joel Castañeda will both play for the Southwestern Assemblies of God University Lions in Waxahachie. Jaquarian Williams will travel to Kansas to play for the McPherson College Bulldogs.

MORE COWBELL!

Children of all ages jammed with local music group Johnny and Lisé (McNally) at the Navasota Public Library Monday, March 15, during the libraries Fun with Percussion and Music night. Children learned all about percussion and accompanied Johnny and Lisé as they played some of their favorite songs. Visit navasotatx.gov or the Navasota Public Library Facebook page for the latest events.

MARCH 24, 2021

TIMELESS CLASSICS IN HISTORICAL ANDERSON

There were plenty of timeless classics on Main Street in Anderson Sunday, March 21, for the annual Classics at the Courthouse event hosted by Charlie Diggs Entertainment. Event goers, young and old, shared a great time strolling the street exploring unique vehicles.

PROGRESSIVE CENTER DINNER OFF TO A GOOD START!

The Progressive Outreach Center, Living in Triumph, St. Holland Missionary Baptist Church and Truevine Missionary Baptist Church hosted 225 diners Sunday, March 21 at a free community dinner. While some diners enjoyed their homecooked meal onsite at the Center on W. Virginia St., others took advantage of carry-out service. Deacons also delivered meals to those without transportation or unable to get out because of health issues.

JEDKINS EARNS BRONZE

Malaiya Jedkins won a bronze medal at the Southland Conference indoor track and field championship.

For a second consecutive year, the Navasota High School graduate finished third in the triple jump at the indoor championship. With an effort of 40 feet, 4.75 inches, she was named to the all-conference third team.

MARCH 31, 2021

MEMORABLE START TO THE SEASON!

It was a memorable start to the 2021 Grimes County Little League Spring baseball and softball season Saturday, March 27. Navasota High School hosted the event and the highest age divisions in baseball and softball competed on the new turf at Boenker and Ira Floyd Field. And for the first time on opening day, players competed in an official MLB Pitch Hit and Run Competition.

FINAL STOP FOR 4141 ENGINE MARKS START OF BUSH MUSEUM EXPANSION

The journey ending Monday, March 22 started modestly 16 years ago, when a museum director asked a railroad executive to borrow an old caboose. Now the historic Union Pacific No. 4141 Engine, a locomotive painted to match Air Force One, is at its permanent home in front of the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station. There it will remain as the George & Barbara Bush Presidential Foundation starts planning and fund-raising for a multi-year, multi-million-dollar expansion.

PAWS FOR A CAUSE

The inaugural Paws for a Cause fundraiser benefitting Grimes County Relay for Life was held at August Horst Park in Navasota Saturday, March 27. Cancer survivor Kay Harris and Jennifer Ramirez organized the event which saw 26 dogs compete and eight walkers without dogs participate. A little more than $1,500 was raised.

APRIL 7, 2021

LONE STAR SALUTE

Texas Governor Greg Abbott requested all law enforcement officers turn on their red and blue flashing lights Thursday, April 1, at 1 p.m. for one minute to honor Trooper Chad Walker, age 38, who was shot multiple times in the line of duty while stopping to assist a driver.

EASTER BUNNY EGG-CITEMENT!

Approximately 200 children of all ages enjoyed spending time with the Easter Bunny, hunting eggs and feasting on a free meal at the Inaugural L.I.T (Living in Triumph) Easter Egg Hunt. Wyatt Otto, son of Dan and Candace Otto found a special prize egg filled with a $20 bill.

OVER 150-POUNDS OF MARIJUANA SEIZED

A routine traffic stop turned into a large drug bust Thursday, April 1, as 51-year-old Jerome Icasiano of San Diego, CA was in possession of over 150-pounds of suspected marijuana and several illegal firearms.

APRIL 14, 2021

IOLA MAN RESPONSIBLE FOR MASS SHOOTING

Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Juan Rojas Tovar was met with gunfire Thursday, April 8, at the 19000 block of Farm-to-Market Road 39 as he was searching for Larry Bollin, 27, of Iola who was responsible for a mass shooting at Kent Moore Cabinets earlier that afternoon.

KEEP NAVASOTA BEAUTIFUL TRASH OFF 2021

More than 180 residents turned out Saturday, April 10 to participate in the 19th Annual Trash Off and Litter Clean Up Day but it wasn’t all work and no play.

APRIL 21, 2021

CRAWFISH A BOILING SUCCESS

The Grimes County Go Texan 15th Annual Crawfish Boil Sat., April 17, was a great success with 3,500 pounds of crawfish served to a room full of people excited to help the youth of Grimes County.

SPRING MAN KILLED IN ROLLOVER

Thirty-eight-year-old Maximiliano Ramirez died in a single vehicle rollover Sunday, April 18 on Texas State Highway 105 East.

SEVERAL PCP ARRESTS IN NAVASOTA

Navasota Police Officers arrested three individuals on Doris Street believed to be under the influence of PCP.

APRIL 28, 2021

COMPETITION HEATS UP AT CRAWFISH FESTIVAL, PLANTERSVILLE CRAWFISH FESTIVAL

The 9th Annual Plantersville Crawfish Festival and Cook-off held Saturday, April 24 had many teams vying for best crawfish bragging rights.

WHITE HALL BIRTHDAY BASH

The White Hall Community Center hosted its fifth annual Birthday Bash Saturday, April 24. There were classic cars, live music, a barbecue chicken meal and raffle.

MAY 5, 2021

EXAMINER NAMED CHAMBER MEMBER OF THE YEAR

Ana Cosino with the Navasota Examiner accepts the Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce Member of the Year award at the Western Gala annual awards banquet Thursday, April 29. Pictured, left to right: Examiner Sales Rep Angela Scurlock, Examiner Bookkeeper and Office Manager Sonya Bobo, Examiner Publisher Ana Cosino, Chamber President YoLanda Fultz, Examiner Senior News Reporter Matthew Ybarra and Examiner Reporter Connie Clements

JONES SIGNS WITH HOWARD COLLEGE

Navasota High School student-athlete Jakayla Jones signed a national letter of intent Tuesday, April 27 with Howard College to play basketball. The six-foot post player will receive a full athletic scholarship which includes tuition, fees, books, and room and board for the next two years.

GC ANIMAL RESCUE HOSTS FUNDRAISER

Grimes County Animal Rescue (GCAR) hosted the inaugural “A Cause for Paws Fundraiser Festival” Saturday, May 1, at the Grimes County Expo Center featuring music by Doug Stone, Jason Cassidy and Jody Booth. The festival was planned to help generate the remaining funds necessary to construct a building for GCAR.

KC’S SUPPORT RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS

The Navasota Knights of Columbus Council No. 9367 presented a check to Matthew Krusleski who is continuing his journey to priesthood. He served oneyear at Christ Our Light Catholic Church in Navasota under Rev. Elias Lopez. Money donated will assist Krusleski with seminary expenses. Pictured, back row, left to right: David Ramirez, Dennis Sechelski, Gregorio Gonzalez, Robert Wisnoski, Ray Katkoski, and Justin McWhorter. Front row, left to right: Marcus Noto, Deacon Grant Holt, Carlos Mijangos, Matthew Krusleski, James Johnson, Marvin Sechelski, and Joey Malek.

MAY 12, 2021

CITY OF NAVASOTA SERVICE AWARDS

Receiving 15-Year Service Awards at Monday’s city council meeting were City Manager Brad Stafford and Lt. Mike Mize. Pictured (L-R): Stafford, council member Bernie Gessner, Mayor Bert Miller, Lt. Mike Mize, council members Josh Fultz, Pattie Pederson, and Grant Holt.Receiving awards but not present were James Simon, III, for five years and NPD Police Chief Shawn Myatt for 15 years.

MILLER, HOLT SWORN IN FOR ANOTHER TERM

At the Monday, May 10, Navasota city council, council members approved the canvass of votes for the May 1 City Election. Mayor Bert Miller, unopposed, was declared reelected and Grant Holt was reelected with 84.58% of the vote in a contested race. After administration of the oath of office by Municipal Court Judge Pat Gruner, Miller and Holt were elected by their fellow council members to continue as Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem, respectively.

MOLINA FLEES FROM DEPUTIES

PLANTERSVILLE – A 35-year old Plantersville man, Agustin Molina, led officers on a brief vehicle and foot pursuit Sunday, May 9. The suspect, Molina, failed to pull over and a pursuit began. Lys pursued the vehicle down CR 302 to Farm-to-Market Road 1774 and onto Loretta Lane where the suspect exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Lys captured the suspect following the brief foot pursuit.

MAY 19, 2021

LEARNING FROM FRONT-LINE WARRIORS

It was a fun, interactive learning experience at the annual First Responder’s Day event. Children had a chance to train with firefighters, meet police officers, and get an up-close look at a medical helicopter and other first responder vehicles.

NISD SAVING ENVIRONMENT, EARNING MONEY

It was a special night for Navasota Independent School District at the monthly school board meeting Monday, May 17, as they were recognized by Entergy Texas Inc. for taking steps to improve the climate and presented Navasota ISD with a check for $111,921.56 as part of their Entergy Efficiency Program which rewards customers for completing energy efficient projects.

DAILEY RUNNING WITH TORNADOS

Tamia Dailey signed her National Letter of Intent to continue her track career with Concordia University with an official signing Wednesday, May 12 at Navasota High School.

MAY 26, 2021

OWLS HOOT IN CELEBRATION

It was a celebration worthy of a ‘hoot’ as the 2021 Anderson-Shiro High School graduating class held their commencement ceremony Friday, May 21, on time and before a capacity crowd. The celebration was much appreciated especially following the many disruptions in 2020-2021 due to COVID-19.

ONE KILLED IN DOWNTOWN COLLISION

A 25-year-old Washington County woman, Jillian Book, lost her life in a head-on-collision Monday afternoon, May 24, in downtown Navasota. At approximately 1:27 p.m. Navasota Police Chief Shawn Myatt stated a Nissan passenger car driven by Book was travelling east on the 100 block of Washington Avenue and drifted into the westbound lane colliding head-on with a Ford F-250 pickup driven by Steve Austin, 59, of Navasota.

FACEBOOK SELLER ROBBED AT GUNPOINT

According to Navasota Police Chief Shawn Myatt, officers were dispatched to the 1200 block of Sauls Street at approximately 8:25 p.m. Myatt stated the victim was from Magnolia and was there to sell a motorcycle that she listed on Facebook Marketplace. The victim stated Jessie arranged to meet on Sauls Street for the transaction.

NAVASOTA MAN KILLED IN COLLEGE STATION SHOOTING

A Navasota man, 23-year-old Cameron James Gray, died from a gunshot wound he sustained in an apparent botched drug deal Friday, May 21, in a College Station H-E-B parking lot. College Station Police Department arrested 18-year-old Trevon Marcel Stewart, of Lexington, Saturday, May 21 in connection with the shooting death of Gray.

JUNE 2, 2021

RATTLERS CELEBRATE DESPITE DELAY

Navasota ISD had a delayed start to the 2020-2021 school year and ‘Mother Nature’ ensured they had a delayed finish as well as inclement weather pushed the outdoor graduation ceremony back to Saturday morning, May 29.

BULLDOGS, PANTHERS CELEBRATE GRADUATES

Iola and Richards hosted commencement ceremonies before packed crowds to celebrate the 2021 graduation class over the weekend.

MEMORIAL DAY REMEMBRANCE RUN

It was a tribute of remembrance as the second-annual Memorial Day Remembrance Run made its way through downtown Navasota.

JUNE 9, 2021

SHAW CROWNED 2021 FAIR QUEEN

Iola High School’s Emma Shaw was crowned 2021 Grimes County Fair Queen Saturday, June 5.

RECORD-SETTING CROWD AT GC FAIR

A record-setting crowd flooded the Grimes County Fairgrounds and Expo Center for the start of the 2021 Grimes County Fair with a sold-out concert featuring Aaron Watson and special guest Doc West Saturday, June 6.

ONE KILLED ON SH 105

Roda Nimako, 42 of Houston, died in a multi-vehicle accident on Texas State Highway 105 Monday morning, June 7.

JUNE 16, 2021

UN-BULL-IEVABLE COMPETITION

The crowd enjoyed every moment of the acrobatic dismounts provide by the powerful stock of bulls as they sent cowboys soaring to the ground Saturday, June 12, at the annual Grimes County Fair Association Bull Buck Out.

BREAKING THE LAW

A Navasota Police Officer was seriously injured by a teenager during a disturbance call on New York Street Saturday, June 12.

POINTING IN THE WRONG DIRECTION

A Navasota man, 39-year old Zeke Rueda, was arrested after pointing a gun out the window of a vehicle.

JUNE 23, 2021

CELEBRATING JUNETEENTH

Crowds gathered to celebrate freedom at the 81st Annual Juneteenth Parade in historic downtown Anderson Saturday, June 19.

BAYOU FUN IN NAVASOTA

The Zydeco Gators had the crowd dancing to Cajun sounds Friday, June 18, during part two of The Sounds of Summer Free Concert hosted by The City of Navasota.

BODY FOUND BEHIND DAIRY QUEEN

The deceased body located behind Navasota Dairy Queen Saturday, June 19, has been identified as David Stolz, 33, of Navasota.

JUNE 30, 2021

‘SPLISH SPLASH’ FUN AT THE LIBRARY

Children had a blast playing in water provided by Navasota Fire Department Monday afternoon, June 28, for “Wet and Wild Day” hosted by Navasota Public Library.

FAMILY LOSES HOME AND PET TO FIRE

An Iola family lost their home and their family pet during an early morning fire, Tuesday, June 22.

ARMED NAVASOTA MAN SHOT BY COLLEGE STATION POLICE

College Station Police shot Albert Wayne Finnie Jr., 22, after he reportedly refused to drop a handgun during a shooting investigation Friday afternoon, June 25. Finnie later succumbed to his injuries.

JESSIE SENTENCED IN AGGRAVATED ROBBERY

On Monday, June 21, Dekeimus Jessie, age 19, plead guilty to aggravated robbery and was sentenced to 15-years in prison.

JULY 7, 2021

HOME OF THE FREE

It was an epic celebration at the second-annual Navasota Freedom Fest hosted by the city of Navasota. The celebration included a community parade, live music by Escape (a tribute to Journey), and a firework display that lit all of Navasota.

NAVASOTA MAN KILLED IN SOLO CRASH

A Navasota man, 35-year old Felipe Sanchez III, lost his life in an early morning single-vehicle accident, Friday, July 2. The preliminary crash investigation indicates Sanchez was traveling northbound at approximately 6:21 a.m. on Farm-to-Market Road 1227 near Wallace Pack Road in a 2012 Honda passenger car. Department of Public Safety Sergeant Justin Ruiz stated Sanchez failed to control his speed while navigating a curve and went off the roadway into the northbound ditch. He over-corrected and went across the roadway into the southbound ditch and rolled several times.

PRETTY IS, AS THE PRETTY CITY COMMITTEE DOES!

You never get a second chance to make a first impression, and City of Navasota employees take that slogan to heart every Friday morning. That is when you’ll find more than a dozen staff putting Navasota’s best face forward by planting flowers, picking up trash or cutting tree limbs in the downtown area.

JULY 14, 2021

BLOWOUT CAUSES ROLLOVER

Navasota Police Chief Shawn Myatt stated at approximately 4:59 p.m., Christian Salazar, 23, of Tomball, was traveling southbound on Hwy. 6, north of the Farm-to-Market Road 3090 exit when his tire had a blowout. Salazar lost control of the vehicle and entered the southbound median. His vehicle rolled and came to rest upside down. Salazar was ejected from the vehicle.

LEARNING AGRICULTURE AT THE LIBRARY

Children learned about various aspects of agriculture at Navasota Public Library as the Grimes County Farm Bureau Mobile Learning Barn provided them an interactive learning experience. In addition to the question and answer segment, children also built their own plant animals out of stockings and live necklaces they can grow at home. The library staff provided refreshing root beer floats.

CITIZEN FIRE FUND DONATIONS PURCHASE RESCUE EQUIPMENT

Citizens donating to the Navasota Fire Department through the Volunteer Fire Fund on their monthly utility bill will soon see the fruits of their generosity. City council approved the first reading of Ordinance 968-21, adding $43,912 from the fund to Capital Outlay to purchase Amkus Battery Powered rescue equipment.

JULY 21, 2021

NAVASOTA DROWNING VICTIM LOCATED

Gray, a father of four, went missing Fourth of July weekend while boating with family. On July 3, just before 5 p.m. he went missing near the Hatter Cove area of Lake Travis. Nearly two weeks later, 11:30 a.m., Friday, July 16, his body was recovered along the shoreline of Lake Travis.

MURDER SUSPECT APPREHENDED QUICKLY

A Navasota man, 37-year-old Leon Burrell Jr., is in custody and charged with the murder of Navasota High School Class of 1995 alumni Clifton Love, 45, of College Station. On Wednesday, July 14, at approximately 8:10 p.m., Navasota Police, Navasota Fire Department and St. Joseph EMS responded to a male with a gunshot wound at the Laredo Heights Apartment complex, on the 500 block of Laredo Street.

OFFICERS NOT METH-ING AROUND

A suspected drug dealer from Singleton, 27-year old Janie Leanne Jones, was arrested during a traffic stop Friday, July 16, in Bryan. The vehicle was searched by a canine officer who detected drugs. A complete search of the vehicle uncovered 106.1 grams of meth, 11.4 grams of ecstasy, 3.3 grams of amphetamine, 0.7 grams of heroin, 20.8 grams of marijuana, hundreds of plastic baggies, empty capsules, glass pipes used for meth, a wooden marijuana pipe, a digital scale, two phones, and a plastic scoop used to distribute drugs into baggies.

JULY 28, 2021

HOT WHEELS AT JARVIS!

The competition was heated at the Jarvis Tire Pros 12th Anniversary Car Show Saturday, July 24. Several awards were given for Fan Favorite, Best of Show and many more.

RICH DREAMS DEFLATED

Waseem Khalil, 21, of Houston is suspected of robbing two Wells Fargo Bank locations in College Station – one on Southwest Parkway and Texas Avenue and the other at Rock Prairie Road and Longmire Drive.

CITY, NISD BUILDING COMMUNITY PRIDE

The Navasota City Council and Navasota Independent School District (NISD) Board of Trustees held a joint meeting Monday, July 26, at the NISD Administration Building. Reinforcing their united effort to promote Navasota and NISD, City and NISD staff reviewed recent accomplishments and goals for 2022.

AUG. 4, 2021

PACKING BAGS FOR STUDENTS

Grimes County hosted their annual Back to School Supply Drive at the Grimes County Fairgrounds Tuesday, Aug. 3. With the help from sponsors, community donations and volunteers there was a total of 600 backpacks distributed to students in Grimes County this year.

RAMP BUILT FOR LOCAL VETERAN

United Postal Services (UPS) employees aided United States Army Vietnam War Veteran Tommy Gonzales with a ramp build at his home on Scenic View Drive in Anderson Monday, July 26

CRIMINALS AVOID SPIKES, FALL INTO PIT

A vehicle-robbery suspect from Bryan, 18-year-old Erwin Cruz Guzman, led Grimes County Deputies on a multi-county pursuit reaching speeds up to 130 miles-per-hour

AUG. 11, 2021

GETTIN’ HOOKED

City of Navasota hosted its annual KidFish at Patout Pond Saturday, Aug. 7. KidFish Foundation promotes fishing to children by providing the necessary equipment and instruction to instill lifelong memories.

MASONIC DEDICATION CONNECTS JUSTICE CENTER TO HISTORY

The Orphan’s Friend Masonic Lodge #17 in Anderson held a cornerstone dedication at the Grimes County Justice and Business Center next to the Grimes County jail Saturday, Aug. 7.

AUG. 18, 2021

CHUGGA CHUGGA CHOO CHOO

Big Boy 4014 stopped on historic Railroad Street in Navasota Monday, Aug. 16, as part of a 4,000-mile, 10-state journey

RATTLERS SHINE BRIGHT

It was a night of celebration as the community had a chance to “Meet the Rattlers” at the annual event organized by the Navasota Athletic Booster Club where all NISD programs and many youth organizations were recognized.

OWLS RETURN TO SCHOOL WITH UNMASKED BEAKS

Anderson-Shiro CISD students started the new school year Wednesday, Aug. 11. They are the first district in Grimes County to resume school and do so without a mask mandate in place per Gov. Greg Abbott’s Executive Order issued over the summer making masks optional only for school districts.

AUG. 25, 2021

RATTLERS RATTLE INTO NEW YEAR

Navasota ISD and Richards ISD returned to class Monday, Aug. 23. Iola students returned to class Wednesday, Aug. 18, and Anderson-Shiro were the first to return to school on Wednesday, Aug. 11. All students were welcomed with lots of smiles, hugs and positivity.

8-YEAR OLD ESCAPES ATTEMPTED KIDNAPPING

An eight-year old boy eluded an attempted kidnapping Saturday, Aug. 21, at his home on the 14000 block of County Road 304.

SEPT. 1, 2021

DEPUTIES INJURED IN PURSUIT RECOVERING

Grimes County Sheriff Don Sowell stated Deputies Daniel Caswell and Mike Ryan were air-lifted to St. Joseph hospital in Bryan in stable condition following an early morning pursuit Thursday, Aug. 26. Sowell said both Caswell and Ryan are doing well and have made significant improvements.

GCSO RECEIVES CAMERAS. RADAR TRAILER

The Grimes County True Blue Foundation (GCTBF) filled a request from Grimes County Sherriff Don Sowell by donating body cameras to the Sherriff’s Office Tuesday, Aug. 24. Lt. James Ellis explained how important quality cameras are to each case when it goes to trial, stating a bad photo can leave out key evidence. GCTBF also donated a radar trailer to the department to slow traffic in Anderson.

THE HEART OF A LION

Bill Sears of Navasota who is a longtime member of the International Association of Lions Clubs received the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award Saturday, Aug. 28.

SEPT. 8, 2021

A RIDE TO REMEMBER FALLEN FIRST RESPONDERS

The Texas Brotherhood Ride traveled through Navasota Sunday, Sept. 5, to honor first responders who died in the line of duty. The ride began in Houston and will end at the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in Colorado Springs. In 2020, 29 firefighters and 82 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty.

A RATTLER SALUTE TO FIRST RESPONDERS

Navasota Independent School District honored local first responders at the annual First Responders Night at Rattler Stadium Friday, Sept. 3. This was a special night embarking on the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, attacks.

NAVASOTA HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR

An Eagle has landed in Navasota Christopher Price was presented the highest attainable honor of a Boy Scout. An Eagle Courts of Honor Ceremony was held for him Saturday, Sept. 4, at Grimes County VFW Post 4006.

SEPT. 15, 2021

STAFFORD’S RETIREMENT MARKS END OF AN ERA

Oct. 29 marks what can only be described as the end of an era. That’s the day Navasota’s longest serving City Manager Brad Stafford retires after 15 years of service. The Navasota City Council held a Special Meeting Tuesday, Sept. 7, to consider and possibly take action on Stafford’s Employment Agreement, related issues, potential roles and/or duties in facilitating the transition to a new City Manager.

WELCOME HOME DEPUTY MIKE RYAN

Grimes County Deputy Mike Ryan was escorted and welcomed home Monday, Sept. 13, after a lengthy hospital stay resulting from injuries sustained during a pursuit. Ryan and Deputy Dan Caswell were crashed while pursuing a fleeing suspect Thursday, Aug. 26. Both Ryan and Caswell were air-lifted to the hospital. Ryan underwent surgery and suffered multiple injuries including two broken legs. Caswell suffered a broken leg and received multiple stitches – he was treated and released from the hospital the same day.

A TRIBUTE TO 9/11

Grimes County VFW Post 4006 in Navasota remembered the 20th anniversary of 9/11, with a special ceremony Saturday, Sept. 11. The day began with a first responders’ breakfast, followed by a special tribute to those lost on Sept. 11, 2001 and concluded with a free dance.

HONORING ‘THE ORIGINAL BUBBA’

Friends of Grimes County (FGC) presented a special award to “The Original Bubba” Bill Fuqua Saturday, Sept. 11, during the 15th Annual Bubba Can Cook awards ceremony. Bill and his group “Killin Time” have participated in every Bubba Can Cook competition and always willing to feed anyone. FGC asks for prayers for Bill and his family as he battles pancreatic cancer.

SEPT. 22, 2021

RUNWAY TO EDUCATION

Navasota ISD has a new aviation program taking flight on the education runway in 2022. The district partnered with Tango Flight, an aviation engineering program that will allow students to build an FAA airplane.

OWL ROYALTY

The Anderson-Shiro Owls have new royalty in the nest as the 2021 Homecoming King, Mar’Tavion Offing and Queen, Lilliana Ramirez were crowned at halftime Friday, Sept. 17. The Owls defeated Trinity 28-0.

CCSC REMODEL MAXIMIZES FOOD PANTRY EFFICIENCY

For nearly 20 years, the Christian Community Services Center (CCSC), under the direction of Patricia Gaston has been fighting hunger in Navasota. According to Gaston, she has never lacked for volunteers whether it’s donating food, unloading canned goods or distributing food. More recently, the helping hearts have picked up hammers, screwdrivers and paint to make the food delivery system at CCSC more efficient.

SEPT. 29, 2021

2021 RATTLER ROYALTY

Deja Thomas was crowned the 2021 Navasota High School Homecoming Queen Friday, Sept. 24, at Rattler Stadium. Thomas was escorted by NHS Senior Cashtian Douglas.

SOFTBALLERS REPRESENT GRIMES COUNTY

Three Grimes County softball players advanced to the Houston Astros Team Championship portion of the MLB Pitch Hit & Run competition Sunday, Sept. 26, at Minute Maid Park in Houston. Each player won the MLB Pitch Hit & Run contest qualifier hosted at Navasota High School on March 27

JESUS AT THE CENTER OF IT ALL

Students across Grimes County gathered at their local schools Wednesday, Sept. 22, for “See You At The Pole” 2021, a global movement of prayer which is student-initiated, student-organized, and student-led. Around the globe students gather around the flag pole to pray for their school.

OCT. 6, 2021

RISK BRINGS REWARD FOR NEW MANAGING EDITOR YBARRA

Matthew Ybarra has spent his life overcoming obstacles, confronting fear and taking risks, and his tenacity has been rewarded. This month Ybarra was named Managing Editor of the Navasota Examiner. From a part time Sports Reporter to Senior Staff Writer and now, the Managing Editor, Ybarra is an inspiring example of what love, perseverance and trust can accomplish, making the past an often-unreliable predictor of the future!

HUZZAH! THE KINGDOM’S OPEN!

The Texas Renaissance Festival (TRF), the nation’s largest and most anticipated Renaissance event, welcomes guests of all ages to the 47th season beginning Saturday, Oct. 9.

PLANTERSVILLE TOWN HALL COMPLETES RENOVATION

Navasota Evening Lions Club, represented by B. J. Moody and several other members, presented Plantersville Town Hall Inc. with a $5,000 check during their Town Hall reopening celebration Saturday, Oct. 2

OCT. 13, 2021

CHRISTOPHER IS HOME!

After almost 72-hours later, we witnessed a miracle in Grimes County when a missing 3-yearold boy (Christopher) was finally found.

CROWNING BULLDOG ROYALTY

Emmora Cooper was crowned Homecoming Queen and Clay Stafford was crowned Homecoming King.

A-S STUDENT KILLED IN CRASH

Omar Rodriguez, a 16-year old student at Anderson-Shiro Junior-Senior High School was killed in an accident in Shiro Sunday, Oct. 10.

OCT. 20, 2021

CHEERS TO 110 YEARS!

P Nemir Dry Goods Company in downtown Navasota celebrated 110 years of business Saturday, Oct. 16.

NISD STUDENT KILLED IN SHOOTING

Grimes County Sheriff’s Deputies are investigating a murder in Bedias that claimed the life of a Navasota Independent School District student, 18-year-old, Anthony Demilo Williams.

COLLISION CAUSES POWER OUTAGE

An SUV struck a utility pole Sunday, Oct. 17, causing over 400 Navasota residents to lose power for an extended period of time.

OCT. 27, 2021

A CUT ABOVE OTHER DISTRICTS

An exciting new program at Navasota High School is now available to the community. The Navasota Rattler Salon operated by the NHS Cosmetology program is one of the latest Career and Technology Education programs NISD offers students.

JESSIE SENTENCED TO 45 YEARS

Donquarius Jessie, 19, from Navasota, pled guilty to Aggravated Robbery and Aggravated Assault and was sentenced to a total of 45 years in prison.

A ‘CFORCE’ TO BE RECKONED WITH

Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce hosted the 16th Annual Bob Whitten Memorial “Glow for the Green” Golf Tournament Friday, Oct. 22, at Pecan Lakes Golf Course.

NOV. 3, 2021

NPD HOSTS TREATS ON THE STREETS

Navasota Police Department hosted their annual Treats on the Streets event in downtown Navasota Thursday, Oct. 28

GRILLING STAFFORD, THE END OF AN ERA

Grilling Stafford started during COVID-19 as a way for Navasota City Manager Brad Stafford to address not only COVID-19 pandemic questions but answer all city related questions from the city, leaving the community more-informed. An era that lasted over a year and 75 episodes ended with the final taping of Grilling Stafford Wednesday, Oct. 27. Stafford retired as city manager and Grilling Stafford is retiring with him.

COUNTY PRESENTS SERVICE AWARDS

Commissioner David Dobyanski presents a plaque recognizing Road and Bridge employees each with five years of service to Grimes County.

NOV. 10, 2021

HONORING ALL VETERANS

Heroes in uniform were celebrated Saturday, Nov. 6, with a parade and festivities presented by Grimes County VFW Post 4006. Veterans Day is a time to honor the brave men and women who put country before self.

CRIME STOPPERS K9 PROJECT A SUCCESS!

Thanks to the generosity of the citizens of Grimes and neighboring counties, training of the Grimes County Sheriff’s Office’s newest canine officer is currently underway! The K9 Project came about when K9 Unit officer, Sgt. Steven Siracusa, approached Grimes County Crime Stoppers, Inc. for assistance with training costs to replace his current “partner,” Tweaker who is retiring.

ATTEMPTED ROBBER MET WITH GUNFIRE

Navasota Police are actively searching for a suspect accused of attempting an aggravated robbery Saturday, Nov. 6, on the 600 block of Universal Street in Navasota. According to Navasota Police Chief Shawn Myatt, at approximately 10:41 p.m., officers were dispatched to an attempted aggravated robbery. The homeowner told officers a male, who he didn’t know, kicked in the back door of the home.

NOV. 17, 2021

ENJOYING THE BLUES AND BREWS IN NAVASOTA

Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce hosted its fifth annual Red, Wheats and Blues Festival in downtown Navasota Saturday, Nov. 13. Over 300 people enjoyed shopping downtown while sampling from 14 wineries/breweries and listening to live blues music.

TWO AIR-LIFTED IN PLANTERSVILLE WRECK

Two victims were air-lifted from the scene of a two-vehicle collision on Texas State Highway 105 in Plantersville Monday, Nov. 15.

NAVASOTA’S LOUKANIS SIGNS WITH UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON

Trinity Loukanis, a senior at Navasota High School, signed a national letter of intent Wednesday, Nov. 10, to play softball and continue her education at the University of Houston.

NOV. 24, 2021

FIRE CREWS EXTINGUISH TRF FIRE

A fire in the Texas Renaissance Festival’s Tuscany Village was contained without injury Tuesday, Nov. 23. The Festival will still be open to the public this weekend, Nov. 26-28.

SHOOTINGS ENSUE AFTER FOSTER STREET MURDER

A Thursday night shooting on Foster Street in Navasota, claimed the life of 24-year old Fredrick Santee of Washington County.

NAVASOTA MAN ARRESTED IN FATAL HIT AND RUN

a Navasota man, Matthew Brian Davis, 36, was arrested by Department of Public Safety Troopers for fleeing the scene of a fatal accident Nov. 5, in Montgomery.

CHRISTOPHER SEARCH HIGHLIGHTS RADIO NEEDS FOR COUNTY

At a Regular Meeting of the Grimes County Commissioners Court Wednesday, Nov. 17, commissioners approved adding 31 radio subscriptions, or usage fee, to the Grimes County 700/800 MHz radio count. According to Emergency Management Services Coordinator David Lilly, this brings the total radio count to 374. According to Lilly, eight will go to Grimes County First Responders, five to the Plantersville VFD, one to Richards VFD and 17 to Todd Mission VFD.

DEC. 1, 2021

FESTIVE GRIMES COUNTY COURTHOUSE

The annual lighting of the historic Grimes County Courthouse was the finale of the HOWLIDAY Courthouse Lighting Festival on Main Street in Anderson Saturday, Nov. 27.

MURDER SUSPECT ARRESTED

Navasota Police Investigators with the assistance of Schulenburg Police Department arrested 44-year Willie Poldo of Navasota in Schulenburg Tuesday, Nov. 30, Poldo is suspected of murdering Fredrick Santee, 24, of Washington County.

47TH ANNUAL TRF CONCLUDES

The 47th Annual Texas Renaissance Festival concluded with a Celtic Christmas themed weekend.

DEC. 8, 2021

PARTY ON MAIN STREET

Anderson Holiday Fest, a holiday themed music festival, featured music from Jason Cassidy, Rick Trevino, Josh Ward, Bri Bagwell and more.

TIPS LEAD TO NARCOTIC’S BUST

Navasota Police arrested two Navasota men, 24-year old Jermaine Williams and 25-year old Dontrell Richardson, during a narcotic’s bust Thursday, Dec. 2.

DIAMOND RIO, RANDY ROGERS BAND 2022 TBB HEADLINERS

Navasota Police Chief/Assistant City Manager Shawn Myatt, Mayor Bert Miller and Willy 1550/98.7 disc jockey Kenny Graves kicked off the 10th Texas Birthday Bash line-up announcement with comments to the crowd below from the second floor balcony.

DEC. 15, 2021

DECK THE STREETS

Downtown Navasota was lit with Christmas cheer for the annual Home for the Holidays celebration and lighted Christmas parade Saturday, Dec. 11.

MAKE A CHRISTMAS HAPPEN

Christmas was made special for many families during the 16th Annual Grimes County Make A Christmas Happen (M.A.C.H.) Toy Run Saturday, Dec. 11.

VICIOUS TRAILER PARK ASSAULT

A Navasota man was fighting for his life after a violent assault Thursday, Dec. 9, left him unresponsive.

DEC. 22, 2021

TRAILER PARK ASSAULT TURNS DEADLY

The victim in a violent assault Thursday, Dec. 9, at Grassy Creek Trailer park succumbed to his injuries.

CHILD DIES AFTER BEING FOUND IN POND

An 18-month old boy, River Jaxton Blair, who was found face-down in a pond near County Road 302 and Lakeshore Drive died Thursday, Dec. 16, at 5:42 p.m.

SKELETAL REMAINS FOUND IN NAVASOTA

Navasota Police are investigating skeletal remains located in Navasota Thursday morning, Dec. 16.