Local trio takes third at prestigious tamale cookoff

By Clay Whittington The Belton Journal The Lady Broncos reclaimed their spot atop the district standings this year, and it is easy to see why. One season after finishing second to Killeen Chaparral, Lake Belton bounced back with an impressive campaign, losing only three sets en route to claiming its third league title in four years. Along the way, plenty of players contributed to the collective success, and they were recently recognized by being placed on the 16-5A All-District Team. While it took a complete unit to deliver an undefeated record, senior outside hitter Kaitlyn Hutchins separated herself from every other player and was named most valuable player. It was an ideal achievement for the Northern Colorado commit, who set six school records during her career. She graduates with the program's most aces in a match, season and career along with the most kills in a match, season and career. Multiple teammates also landed on the list, including another superlative recipient. Madison Bingham, a senior setter, amassed more than 2,500 assists and 1,000 digs during her three-year career and concludes her time by being named setter of the year. Additionally, six more Lady Broncos were recognized on the list. Senior setter Natalia Partida, senior defensive specialist Keileigh Krueger, junior middle blocker Ava Wood and junior defensive specialist Kruz Smith were each placed on the first team. Teammates Madilyn Jackman, a sophomore outside hitter, and junior middle blocker Makinzi Johnson were second-team selections. Posting a second-place record of 8-2, Belton was also rewarded for its efforts, earning three of the top honors. Kaitlyn McCracken was named offensive player of the year. Outside hitter Brylee Renegar was named newcomer of the year. And Lady Tigers' third-year head coach Haleigh Johnson was named coach of the year. With the trio guiding the squad, Belton posted its most wins in recent history with 31, including a second consecutive bi-district victory in the playoffs. McCracken, a senior middle blocker, had 196 kills to go with a dozen aces, while Renegar burst onto the scene by recording 384 digs, 297 kills, 58 aces, 31 blocks and eight assists in her debut sophomore season. The Lady Tigers also had three first-team selections in senior outside hitter C.J. Seites, senior libero Miley Davila and senior right-side hitter Landry Duggan. And two more — Lyza LeBlanc, a senior outside hitter, and junior setter Ella Tucker — were placed on the second team. Third-place Chaparral and fourth-place Killeen Ellison accounted for two of the remaining three superlatives. Lady Bobcats senior libero Mikayla Cromwell was named defensive player of the year, while Lady Eagles junior libero Ja'Lya Swiney was named utility player of the year. Waco University senior middle hitter Kamari Greenleaf rounded out the accolades by being named blocker of the year.

By Aries Ramos The Belton Journal The Lady Tigers wrapped up a challenging but productive weekend in San Antonio, leaving the Warrior Classic with a 2-2 record and plenty of positives to build on. The tournament opened with a commanding win over Lockhart, where Belton set the tone defensively and ran away with the momentum early. The team hit a bump in their second matchup against Montgomery, but the way they responded on day two showed maturity. Their overtime battle with Dripping Springs became one of the most competitive games of the weekend, with Belton pushing the pace, answering runs, and showing late game composure before ultimately falling in a tight finish. The Tigers regrouped quickly, closing the event strong with a confident victory over Pace School. The final win capped a weekend where Belton showed both flashes of dominance and moments where they had to grind through adversity. Several players stepped up in meaningful ways. Ke'Ara Shanks anchored the defensive end with her energy and anticipation, while Emma Harvey provided toughness on the boards. Isabella Warner, who earned all-tournament recognition, and Emma Flory carried key scoring stretches throughout the tournament. Depth once again proved to be an asset, with Laila Huston, Aubrey Edwards, Ella Tucek, and Dylan Waldrep giving the team important minutes. Olivia Henderson celebrated her first varsity points, and Genny Nelson brought nonstop stop from the sideline. Behind the scenes, Avery Angell played a vital role keeping everything organized during the hectic tournament schedule. After the Thanksgiving break, the Lady Tigers jump right back into action on December 2nd with a road trip to Rouse. Last season, Rouse got the better of Belton in a 61-38 matchup, and this year's meeting offers the Tigers a chance to show how far they've come. With improved depth, stronger defensive identity, and growing chemistry, Belton enters the rematch with an opportunity to make a statement early in the season schedule.

By Clay Whittington The Belton Journal The Broncos and Lady Broncos' wrestling schedules resume Wednesday, when the teams travel to Leander for a pair of matches. Lake Belton will compete against the Lions and Lady Lions at 6 p.m. before taking part in a match against Liberty Hill at 7:30 p.m.. Then, on Saturday, the Broncos and Lady Broncos make the short trip to Mary Hardin-Baylor for a match, and they travel to Waco Midway on Wednesday to conclude a busy week. Belton's schedule is equally hectic. The Tigers and Lady Tigers have competitions set for Wednesday at Georgetown, Friday and Saturday at home and at Pflugerville Weiss on Wednesday. BELTON BOYS SOCCER The Tigers will be conducting try-outs for the upcoming season Monday and Tuesday from 7-8 a.m. each day. Participants must have a current physical on file with the school and all necessary paperwork submitted along with being academically eligible. LAKE BELTON GIRLS SOCCER The Lady Broncos will be conducting tryouts for the upcoming season Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 7:30-8:30 a.m. each day. Participants must have a current physical on file with the school and all necessary paperwork submitted along with being academically eligible. First round of cuts will be made following Tuesday's session, and final cuts will be made Wednesday after school. Cleats are required to try out. For more information, visit https://www.google.com/search?q=Belton-Tigers.com. LAKE BELTON SOFTBALL The Lady Broncos will be holding an informative meeting regarding tryouts for the upcoming season Dec. 18 at 5:30 p.m.. Coaches will be on hand to share information with players and parents regarding guidelines for how the tryout process will work later in January. The meeting is for all potential players of any grade. For more information, contact Lady Broncos head coach Kelsie McEachern at Kelsie.McEachern@BISD.net.

Dale Patricia Ann Dale May 8, 1940 - November 3, 2025 Patricia Ann Dale, affectionately known as "Pat", passed away on November 3, 2025, in Belton, Texas, at the age of 85. Born on May 8, 1940, in Versailles, Kentucky, Patricia lived a fulfilling life marked by her unwavering dedication and a deep love for her family and friends. Patricia's professional journey began as a secretary at the University of Cincinnati, where her skills and diligence earned her respect and admiration. Later in life, following her move to Texas, she continued her career at Chaffin Enterprises and served as a long-time bookkeeper at Mill Creek Country Club. She was a valued member to each organization she was part of. An alumnus of Temple Jr. College, Patricia pursued studies in Real Estate and Accounting, which equipped her with the tools necessary for her successful career. Beyond her professional endeavors, Patricia had a zest for life that extended to her personal interests. She loved traveling the world, antiquing, and beautifully decorating for holidays. However, above all, it was the time spent with family and friends that brought her the greatest joy. Patricia is survived by her sisters: Doris Dickens, of TN, Barbara Collins and brother David Lewis both of KY. Son, Timothy Combs and wife Lee of Belton, TX; stepdaughter Teri Dungan and husband Tom of Great Falls, VA; stepson Richard Nolan Dale II and wife Jennifer of Cross Road, TX; stepdaughter Debby Combs Little and her husband Michael of Orlando, FL. Grandchildren: Thomas Dungan and wife Leigh of Houston, TX; Matthew Dungan, Nashville TN; and Megan Dungan of Washington DC. Sarah and Rebekah Dale of Cross Road TX. Ashley Faircloth and Austin Faircloth of Orlando, FL. Great Grandchildren: Stratton Dungan of Houston TX. Serenity Eller of Casselfelberry, FL. Brian Rupert and Maycee Rupert of Sanford, FL, as well as several nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Richard N. Dale, her former husband James Combs, and her parents Clay and Elinor Lewis. A memorial service honoring Patricia's life will be held on January 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Harper-Talasek Funeral Homes in Belton, Texas. Inurnment will take place at Bellwood Cemetery on January 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., as family and friends come together to honor a life cherished and dearly remembered. Patricia Ann Dale will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and the remarkable impact she had on the lives of those who knew her. Her legacy of love and family will continue to resonate through the hearts of her loved ones. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or a charity of your choice.

Special to the Journal The Friends of the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery are proud to announce that Retired General Paul Funk Jr. will be the guest speaker at the annual Wreaths for Veterans wreath-laying ceremony, held on Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery. This cherished event honors the memory and service of our nation’s veterans by placing a holiday wreath at every grave and columbarium in the cemetery. General Funk, a distinguished leader with decades of military service, will offer remarks during the opening ceremony, bringing heartfelt insight and gratitude to this solemn occasion.

By Michelle Rodriguez The Belton Journal The community was invited to meet first responders, local police, and the fire department to enjoy a morning full of food and connection on Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at Coronas de Oro Mexican Restaurant located at 219 S. East St. They set up tables and chairs at the gazebo and blocked off the parking lot behind the restaurant near the creek so the police and fire departments could bring their vehicles. Guests enjoyed breakfast tacos: bacon, egg, and cheese; potato, egg, and cheese; sausage, egg, and cheese; refreshments including water, coffee, orange juice, and coffee while meeting first responders, checking out police and fire vehicles, and learning more about those who serve our community.

Special to the Journal December 2nd, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is known nationally as Giving Tuesday when people are encouraged to donate to their local non-profit agencies. One Central Texas non-profit is reversing the day by offering fresh sausage wraps, chips, and fresh baked cookies to the public in appreciation for the support received since their opening in August 2023. On December 2nd the Hospice House family will be set up in the parking lot of the Keith Ace Hardware, 525 N. Main St, Belton, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Our Hospice House is so grateful to the public for all they have done to help make this a reality. Giving Tuesday is a great opportunity to thank donors, volunteers, hospice providers, numerous local organizations and the whole community for their wonderful support of this mission. Dr. and Mrs. Jeff Bates provide a beautifully decorated home for those on their end-of-life journey. It is a free-standing home with trained staff and volunteers serving the houseguests around the clock. The Executive Director, Annie McCall, stated that the care is available at no cost to those needing to make the most of every moment. To make a donation to Our Hospice House you may go to www.OurHospiceHouse.org or use the QR code that is provided.

By Michele Weisman The Belton Journal BELTON JOURNAL/Michele Weisman June Sanderford, one of the original volunteers with Project Angel Tree, prepares a gift. Project Angel Tree provides Christmas presents to the children of Bell County Jail inmates through local churches, organizations, and businesses. This group of volunteer leaders and workers is under the umbrella of J.A.I.L. Ministry, Inc. The inmates’ requests are given to Project Angel Tree in October, and the volunteers go to work. Project Angel Tree’s (PAT) mission is, “To strengthen the relationship between children and their incarcerated parents and by providing a gift with a special message from the parent, "To share the love of God with children and families."

Special to the Journal As the holiday season approaches, the Bell County Crime Victims' Coalition will be paying special tribute to victims of crime at the 22nd Annual Tree of Angels Ceremony. The ceremony allows for family members, friends, and colleagues to trim Christmas trees with special ornaments honoring and remembering those lost to violent crime. The Christmas trees will remain displayed in the Cadence Center lobby throughout the Christmas season. Ornaments from previous years will be available to place on the tree or to exchange for a new ornament.