COJO Championship Event Returns To Belton

By Michele Weisman The Belton Journal Woodland Cottages, a local retirement community volleyball team, the Hit Squad, invited Lake Belton girls’ volleyball team, the Broncos, to play chair volleyball. The matchup occurred Monday evening, October 6, at the Cottages, on River Fair Boulevard.

By David Stone The Belton Journal  The Belton-based Touch Root Foundation invites the community to participate in the inaugural Water Walk on Saturday, Nov. 8, at the Landing on Nolan Creek, 219 S East Street in Belton. The family-friendly event begins with registration at 7:30 a.m. and the walk at 9 a.m.

By David Stone The Belton Journal The Belton City Council approved the purchase of eight new police vehicles during Tuesday's meeting. Police Chief Larry Berg said the Capital Equipment Replacement Fund, created several years ago by the City Council, has been successful at creating a level funding mechanism to sustain the city fleet of vehicles and equipment. "The Fiscal Year 2026 budget contains funding in the amount of $564,700 to purchase and equip the new vehicles for the Belton Police Department," Berg said. Tuesday's Council action will purchase four Ford Supercrew police vehicles at a price of $48,500 each, three Ford Explorer Interceptors at a price of $45,700 each, and one Ford Explorer Active at a price of $37,600. "The installment of emergency equipment and agency-supplied equipment will be performed by Dana Safety Supply in Fort Worth for an additional cost of $133,825.94," Berg added. "Agency-supplied equipment — cameras, radars, radios, stop sticks, and data transfer routes — will be purchased separately at a total cost of $136,222.64." "The purchase of these vehicles will strengthen the Police Department fleet while avoiding higher costs associated with maintenance repairs of older model vehicles," he said. All eight vehicles are ready for delivery. The vehicles will be purchased from Sames Bastrop Ford. Council approved an ordinance on first reading and set a public hearing and second reading for Nov. 10, granting a commercial solid waste collection franchise to Frontier Waste Solutions. Frontier is seeking a commercial solid waste franchise from the City. The company anticipates commencing services shortly after a franchise is awarded. Belton City Charter requires two readings and a public hearing. Council also approved an ordinance amendment relating to a prohibition to ride or propel any bicycle on any sidewalk, or propel a skateboard or coaster along any sidewalk, in any parking lot, or in any street or roadway. A public hearing was held Tuesday night, but no one spoke in favor of or against the amendment.

By Michelle Rodriguez The Belton Journal The Belton Lions Club hosted its 3rd annual Lions on the Leon featuring family-fun activities including Captain "D" 5k Dash for Sight, Picnic in the Park, and Wacky Boat Race at Heritage Park.

By David Stone The Belton Journal This year's Downtown Belton's Candy Trails will take place from 3 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, and organizer Leila Valchar hopes this year's event is the biggest since its inception in 2014.  "I founded this event to bring families to downtown Belton, and it's grown tremendously over the years," said Valchar, who also is president of the DBBA and owner of My Giving Tree.

By Michelle Rodriguez The Belton Journal Pet lovers and trick or treaters attended the two-day family and pet friendly tenth annual Pet Extravaganza sponsored by Rescue Magazine this past weekend. “The show was a big success. We had many animal adoptions. It was a record attendance for us this year,” said President of Rescue Magazine, Ron Ducharme. There were lots of vendors for people, pets, services, and their homes. There was free pet microchipping. There was a giant trick or treating with vendors passing out candies and freebies to children, pets, and all attendees. Pirate Captain Dan Sparrow from the United Kingdom was at the entrance to take pictures with VIPs and take pictures for donation.

David “Ty” Jackson June 23, 2005- October 9, 2025 David "Ty" Jackson, 20, of Temple, passed away on October 9, 2025, in Bartlett, Texas. Visitation services were held at Dossman Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 5 PM to 8 PM. Services will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 10:30 at Vista Community Church. Burial will follow at Rest Haven Cemetery. Ty dedicated himself to his family and friends. Family was paramount in his life; he was a self-proclaimed "momma's boy" who openly expressed his love and admiration for This mom. He held a special bond with his dad that none could compare. His Dad was his rock. He had a close relationship with his two sisters and adored his nieces. Despite his young age, Ty had a big impact on his community. He became an electrician, where he joined the 520 Electrical Union. He also found love when he met his girlfriend, Sadie Grote, with whom he shared eight precious months. Though that time was short, he envisioned a bright future together with her. In addition to his professional pursuits, Ty had a passion for baseball. He played league ball, travel ball and eventually High school Baseball at Lake Belton HS. He earned a full ride scholarship in the sport, a testament to his skill and determination. Life took an unexpected turn when he received an injury that took him down a different path. Ty loved hunting, fishing and golfing. He also enjoyed spending time with his friends and family.  He is survived by his father, David S. Jackson, Mother Latasha R. Jackson and his siblings, Tristan Jackson, Briaunna Flores and husband Amarndo, and Alexis McCollum; as well as his nieces Lyla Knight and Isabella Flores, and his grandfather, David G. Jackson, and his grandmothers, Debbie "Ez" Jackson, Hydi Southerland, and Joyce Roberts. His girlfriend, Sadie Grote. Ty also leaves behind many aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as many friends that became family. He is gone but never forgotten.

Melissa Leach January 14, 1974 – October 3, 2025 Melissa Leach, of Troy, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, in Lometa, Texas. Missy was the life of every room she entered: radiant, bold, and unforgettable. A true Harley mama with a wild heart and a contagious laugh, she lived her life with passion and a fearless spirit. Missy worked as a flight attendant, a career that perfectly matched her love for travel and adventure. Whether soaring through the skies or cruising down the highway, she embraced every moment with enthusiasm and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world. She found joy in the simple pleasures of country life: gardening, caring for her dogs, and tending to her beloved farm animals, including chickens, goats, cows, ponies, donkeys, and even an alpaca. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and muddy boots, where every creature was loved and every flower had a story. She is survived by her loving partner, Shawn Chandler; her daughter, Taylor Wiesemann; her cherished grandson, Maverick; her siblings, Casey Dowell, John D. Hamrick, Janie Leach, Gaylee Hamrick, and Misti Brown - and their families, all of whom held a special place in her heart. She is also survived by her fathers, Chester Leach and John B. Hamrick. Missy was preceded in death by her mother, Reba Hamrick, and her beloved aunts, Rose Jackson and Brenda Young. Her legacy lives on in the laughter she sparked, the memories she created, and the love she gave so freely. A celebration of life will be held at her home, Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 2 p.m. Please contact her family for more information.

Edna Christine Malcik July 6, 1934 – October 6, 2025 Edna Christine Malcik, a cherished member of the Temple community, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by her loving family. Edna was born on July 6, 1934, in Red Ranger, Texas, and she later graduated from Rogers High School, where her joyful spirit began to shine brightly. Throughout her career, Edna held various positions, notably working as an inspector for a local hat company before dedicating herself to Southwestern Bell, which later acquired AT&T. She served with distinction until her retirement in 1992. Edna’s commitment to her work was as strong as her commitment to her family, showcasing her work ethic and determination. Edna was known for her “Happy Go Lucky” personality, and she approached life with a vibrant enthusiasm that was infectious. She found extraordinary joy in the company of her friends and family, having moved in next door to the love of her life, Frank Ignac Malcik, whom she married in 1952. Together, they began their family and welcomed their son, Randall, in 1962. Her love for animals was well-known, as she and Frank raised Chinese Pugs and had many pets throughout their lifetime, each bringing unique joy and companionship. Edna also had a passion for dancing, often sharing this enjoyment with those around her, further reflecting her love for entertainment and family bonding. She is survived by her son, Randall Malcik; two brothers, Reuben Marek and wife Mary Ann, and Alvin Marek; and one grandson, Justin Malcik. Edna will be remembered for the warmth she brought to those lucky enough to know her, the laughter she shared, and the love she expressed for her family. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Ignac Malcik; her parents, Rudolph and Justine Jezek Marek; and one brother, Rudolph Marek Jr. A visitation for Edna was held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center, located at 4235 E. US Hwy 190, Temple, Texas, 76501. A funeral service followed from 11 a.m. to noon at the same location. Edna was laid to rest following the service at Seaton Cemetery, near 12561 TX-53, Temple, Texas, 76501, with burial at 12:30 p.m. Edna Christine Malcik’s legacy of love, joy, and devotion to her family and friends will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. She leaves behind cherished memories and a lasting impact on all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to the Czech Heritage Museum and Genealogy Center, 119 W. French, Temple, Texas 76501, or to Seaton Church, 12561 TX-53, Temple, Texas. A special thank you to Donna Malcik for her support and care. Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center in Temple.