Around the county this week

Pocket's Grille opened on Main Street in Smithville on Sept. 16, 1996, and just turned 30. Community Impact reports it nearly closed in its second year, and the 1998 filming of Hope Floats in town brought the crowds that kept it going. It's at 205 Fawcett St. now, with an addition of a bar and more seating in the works.

Wildlife Rescue of Central Texas, the volunteer group that takes in hurt and orphaned wild animals, is building its first permanent facility on Watterson Road. Its rehabbers have worked out of their own homes and took in more than 200 animals this year. The group expects to open later this year, once construction and its wildlife rehabilitation permits are done.

The Bastrop Live Music Foundation mentors young musicians, hands out instruments and helps local venues book shows. Its fall fundraiser is Friday, Oct. 23, at 602 Brewing, with live music, food, raffles and a costume contest. The goal is $15,000 to $20,000 for next year's student mentorship program.

Feed the Need Missions has served more than 2 million free meals since it started in 2010, at weekly meal sites around the county. Its annual gala was Sept. 12 at the Bastrop Convention Center. The group says it can always use more volunteers at the meal sites.

Elgin FFA is putting on a Christmas market called Homegrown for the Holidays on Saturday, Nov. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the district's new Homestead Culinary Facility, 816 Lexington Road. Student businesses and youth groups get first pick of the indoor tables.

Elgin High's tennis team finished its fall season with 25 players, its biggest fall roster since 2019. The Wildcats closed the season with a 13-0 win at Manor.