What a day it was

Anderson News

It was a very special day in Anderson this past Saturday. If you missed the 125th birthday party for the Grimes County Courthouse, you missed a lot. The turnout for the event was great. The morning started out with a pancake breakfast put on by the Grimes County Senior Center. Thanks to all those from the Senior Center that worked so hard preparing a wonderful breakfast for everyone. It was nice to see all the incorporated towns within the county, Anderson, Navasota, Bedias, Iola, Plantersville and Todd Mission had a booth promoting their town. All the county officials and offices were on hand and provided information to all attendees regarding their office. They also put on a cake walk in the middle of the street that was enjoyed by all. Sarah Nash, Susan Boudreaux, Becky Duff and I stayed busy for four solid hours giving tours of the courthouse. Everyone that came through seemed to be fascinated by the information presented about the courthouse as well as the unique beauty of it. The Town of Anderson provided a hot dog lunch and “The Highlights” Quartet and Ken, Kevin and Jacob provided musical entertainment. Blondie Carrell made the birthday cake and 400 cupcakes as well. And to top off the delicious dessert was none other than Blue Bell Ice Cream for everyone.

Children also enjoyed face painting and a joy jump. Many were in awe by the various antique cars that were on display. Also, thanks to the Fire Departments that were on hand as well as the Grimes County Sheriff’s Office for traffic control, and Johnny McNally of the Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce for his part in putting events together. I’m sure I missed something or someone as I was busy inside the courthouse during the whole time.

A stage presentation program was put on and emceed by Kenny Graves of KWBC Navasota. Speakers included County Judge Joe Fauth III, Britt Barr of the Texas Historical Commission, former County Judge Ira E. “Bud” Haynie and District 13 State Representative Ben Leman. The highlight of the whole event was the Time Capsule Dedication. Many things and objects were gathered for the capsule and will be buried on the front lawn of the courthouse. In 25 years when the courthouse will be 150 years old, the capsule will be dug up and opened in the year 2044. At that point I will be 91 years old so I’m not sure but hopefully will still be around to witness this special event.

I would personally like to thank Grimes County Adult Probation Community Service Coordinator Al Peeler, who took the “bull by the horns” and made the day all come together in perfect harmony. Al spent many hours lining out the whole day from start to finish and did an amazing job. All in all, Grimes County was made proud by all that helped in any way to honor our beautiful and unique courthouse.

The courthouse has always been special to me since I was a little girl. I remember when my family would travel to Anderson, I knew we were almost there when I saw the courthouse. And now that I’ve grown up and have made Anderson my home, there’s no better feeling than topping any hill from the north, west, south or east and seeing the Grimes County Courthouse. I’m proud to live here and be part of this county.

The St. Stanislaus Summer CCE program will be held June 24 through 28 from 9 a.m. until noon at the parish hall. Go online at www.saintstans.org to find the link to register. Adult volunteers are needed. For more information or to volunteer, contact Kirby Borski at 936-661-5699.

Happy birthday this week to Clint Branch and Delores Webb- June 20; David Fialkovic, Meagan Mann and Kaylee Smith-June 21; Morgan Bourque- June 22; Taylor Mason-June 23; Eric Szymczak and Camden Eastep- June 24; Opal Core- June 25; and Sam Ruffino Sr. and Khloe Kolbasinski- June 26.

Happy Anniversary this week to- June 20- Michael and Natasha Snow, four years; June 22- Clint and Diana Branch, 17 years; June 22- Lovett and Pat Boggess, six years; June 24-Josh and Jennifer Katkoski, 13 years; June 24- Ryan and Winda Goodman, two years; and June 26, Cole and Reyann Davis, nine years.

If you have special news about what goes on in your family or life, let me know by calling 936-870-6842 or emailing me at gailm sowell@yahoo.com.