Grand Junction Express: Monthly Newsletter for the Grand Junction Community
August 28, 2026 – Edition #5 – By: Dianne Callahan
Grand Junction Elementary School (GJES)
Our local kids are now back in full swing at Grand Junction Elementary School. Our school is definitely a bright spot in our town. They do a fantastic job of teaching, guiding, and helping our little ones learn and grow every single day. To help them kick off the year, multiple local groups stepped up to hold school supply drives. We owe a huge thank you to Community Fellowship Church, Rivers of Life Church, the City of Grand Junction and the many other organizations that quietly worked behind the scenes. Your donations are a true blessing. A special thank you goes to everyone who helped plan and make the 6th Grade Parent Lunch a success, as well as to the parents who took time to participate.
An upcoming event is planned by Grand Junction First Baptist Church to show appreciation and provide lunch to the JES teachers on Professional Development Day. Events like these are wonderful reminders of the strong partnership between our school, families, and community. We are proud of the strong school community we have here in Grand Junction and look forward to all the wonderful activities, accomplishments, and memories that the new school year will bring.
Bingo
This has turned out to be a big hit for our town. Our first Bingo night was August 7 and we had over 50 people show up and show out. We all had so much fun! Another Bingo night is planned for Friday, September 11 from 5:00pm – 7:00pm. Bingo is free to play, and we will have some great prizes. And what is a fun evening without good food? One in a Million Food Truck will be on hand, so come hungry and enjoy dinner while you play. Our goal is simple: we want to get together, have a good time, and enjoy our Grand Junction community. Come on out and join us! To our local businesses and individuals who would like to help: we are always accepting prize donations! Your generosity helps make these community events possible, and we appreciate everyone who contributes.
Helipad
Providing an update on some incredible news regarding a new town benefit: Since its installation last November, our new helipad has already proven to be a literal lifesaver. In less than a year, the dedicated launch site has been utilized four times during critical medical emergencies. When severe trauma strikes, every second counts. The helipad allows air ambulance crews to bypass road traffic entirely, flying patients directly to major trauma centers in a fraction of the time a traditional ambulance re-quires. Having this resource right here in our backyard gives local families invaluable peace of mind. A huge thank you goes out to our city leaders for securing this tremendous asset for our community.
First Baptist Church
The Grand Junction Baptist Church continues to be an active and deeply engaged part of our community. Following the passing of beloved Pastor Troy, the church has continued its commitment to serving others and being involved in the life of Grand Junction. Eddie Kessler is currently serving as Interim Pastor. In addition to his regular responsibilities, he has remained busy helping the church and working with community activities. He is coordinating the upcoming 25th Anniversary Commemoration of 9/11, which will be held in Bolivar on Saturday, September 12, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the Hardeman County Courthouse. Also, a reminder from the church: they are currently looking for a pianist who can read music. Pay is negotiable. If you are interested or know someone who might be a good fit, please contact Lester Wynn at 901-493-2688.
From the Library
A valuable community resource you may not know about is the conference room at our local library.
Available for public use, it provides a comfortable gathering place for groups and individuals alike. The room serves many purposes. Some patrons use it to meet with clients, others hold tutoring sessions, and students often take advantage of the quiet space to study. The conference room may be reserved in advance, but if it is not already in use, walk-in visitors are welcome to use the space as well. Whether for business, learning, or collaboration, the conference room is another way our library proudly serves the community.
Good Girls Club
The Pantry & Resource Center, sponsored by the Good Girls Club, is now open and already making a positive difference in our community. In addition, our neighbors at Saulsbury Baptist Church has a clothing closet available to those who may need assistance. If you or someone you know is going through a difficult season and could use food, essential items, community resources, prayer, or simply a listening car, the Good Girls Club is here to help. For assistance, contact LaWanda Young at 731-609-6757 or Annie Gunn at 731-661-1848.
Our community is strongest when we look out for one another. Together, we can continue building a stronger, healthier, and happier place to live, work, worship and socialize!
Upcoming Events:
Fall is Coming September 22 and hopefully some relief from the heat!
Fall Bazaar is planned for October 10, 9:00am – 3:00pm. at the Laffayette Gin. The Fire Department will have a cook out, we will have face painting and vendors and more.
Trunk or Treat at the Park, October 31, 11:00am – 4pm. I know…it is a little early to advertise this event but we want to get the word out. There will be a chili cookoff, best decorated tent/trunk/booth, and maybe other things! We just have to wait and see!
All groups and churches are invited to include your upcoming events and news. Please contact Dianne at gjlibrary103@gmail.com to add news & events.
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Do you have community news you’d like to share? E-mail us at news@hatchiepress.com.
