It all began as a dream. Publisher, Kris Smith, wanted to bring integrity and fair reporting back to Navarro County.
Promising a full color printed publication, The NavCo Chronicle was born in September 2020.
Background
Her Junior High English teacher, Lisa West, lit a fire for education and writing. Kris began writing for fun in late 1999 with a new local newspaper in Freestone County.
In 2010, after the unexpected passing of her husband, she decided it was time to return back to work and she began working with the Navarro County Times staff.
During the COVID pandemic, Kris was looking for her next chapter, when she was approached by leaders within the county to start a new newspaper. A seed was planted,
The Future
The Chronicle is the official newspaper of record for 3 incorporated towns in Navarro County: Dawson, Richland, Rice, and Oak Valley, as well as the official newspaper for Navarro County.
Grab your copy of the NavCo Chronicle at a newsstand near you or call the office at 903-257-3659 to order your yearly subscription.
Bailey McCain
My name is Bailey McCain, and I’m proud to call Freestone County home.
I’m married to my best friend, Roy Lee McCain, and together we’ve spent the last five years building a life we love. We live on our little homestead in Teague, Texas, where we raise rabbits, pigs, ducks, and chickens. Life on the farm is never dull, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I’m also a mama to three amazing boys, Nash, Connor, and Lawson. They keep me on my toes, make me laugh every single day, and remind me why family is at the heart of everything I do. A little over a year ago, we moved to Freestone County and started planting roots in this community. It has truly started to feel like home.
For the past five years, I’ve worked as a real estate assistant to my baby sister, Blair Carsey, who is a real estate agent out of the DFW area. Less than a year ago, I took a leap of faith and started my own business, Divinely Inspired Real Estate Photography. My journey with photography started with nothing more than a camera, a dream, and a lot of learning. I’m a self-taught photographer who spent about three months diving into “YouTube University,” practicing on family properties and my own, slowly gaining confidence behind the lens.
The turning point came when I offered a free photo shoot for the historical Teague Hotel. That shoot reminded me just how much beauty can be found in the details, and it gave me the push I needed to put Divinely Inspired Real Estate Photography out into the world. Today, I have the joy of capturing homes and properties for agents in the surrounding area, combining my love for photography with my passion for real estate. I’m also Part 107 certified, which allows me to offer aerial photography and videography that give listings that extra special touch.
When I’m not working, you can usually find me outdoors with my family. We love hunting, camping, riding dirt bikes, and caring for our animals. Life is busy, a little messy, and full of adventure, but I’m so grateful for it. My faith and family keep me grounded, and I’m excited to continue growing and being part of this amazing community.
Caylin Milligan is a lifelong resident of Navarro County. She lives in the country with her husband of 15 years and their children. Her hobbies include reading, birdwatching, and watching old movies with her husband. She also has had a successful career as an emergency dispatcher for the Corsicana Police Department. She identifies as a servant of Christ and has a passion for women’s ministry. She aspires to be an encouragement to women through her writing and personal testimony.
Emily Haddock
Emily Haddock comes to us in her down time as an EMT for Allegiance, working in the Ennis area. She has attended many City Council meetings, as well as attending special events throughout the county.
She looks forward to meeting more folks in her community!
Taylor Kaiser
Taylor began as the Fall/Winter Intern for the NavCo Chronicle, but has already earned her position as a feature writer for the NavCo Chronicle.
You’ll be seeing more of her at daily events, as she currently attends night college courses!
Susan Wilson
A retired tourism communications professional with years working in major markets, Susan came home to Texas 12 years ago and continues to respect the power of media, its connection, and relationship with the community.
She works with The NavCo Chronicle team to identify story and event coverage opportunities while covering local art, entertainment, and downtown business. Her connections with civic leaders, non-profit organizations, and philanthropic efforts, and her background in marketing and advertising make her a key asset.
She’s always invited to meetings and interviews because she brings in a dessert. Her cheese cake is the stuff of legends.
Stephen Farris
Stephen Farris, a man proficient in the world of history and sports photography, began his esteemed career in Navarro County. Stephen met NavCo publisher, Kris Smith, after she applied for a position at The Navarro County Times back in 2011.
Now, Stephen fills in wherever necessary, mostly delivering copies of The NavCo Chronicle to readers across Navarro County!
