The Temple Chamber of Commerce congratulates Silo of Screams, owned by John Guthrie, on being named the #1 Fan-Voted Haunted Attraction in Texas in ScurryFace.com’s 2025 Top Fan-Voted Haunts competition!

This statewide recognition, earned through thousands of fan votes, celebrates the creativity, production, and passion that have made Silo of Screams one of Central Texas’ most popular seasonal attractions.

“To be fan-voted #1 in Texas feels amazing and is a tribute to all the hard work that our staff and actors put in each year,” said owner John Guthrie.

“We started in 2017 when the Temple Chamber and then-President Rod Henry joined us for photos and our ribbon cutting. What began as a fun way to provide the community with something unique became a creative continuation of my entrepreneurial journey.”

Now celebrating nine thrilling seasons, Silo of Screams wrapped up its 2025 Halloween season on Saturday, November 1, and will reopen in mid-December with a family-friendly, no-scare Christmas walking trail—promising “no scares, just smiles.”
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Guthrie credits his wife Amanda, mentor David Neman, and countless volunteers for their dedication and support. “It truly does take a village,” he shared.

The Temple Chamber of Commerce hosted the 41st Annual Military & First Responder Salute to Service on October 28, 2025, at the Mayborn Convention Center, presented by H-E-B Operation Appreciation and American Legion Post 133.

For more than four decades, this Temple Chamber tradition has united business and community leaders to honor the men and women whose courage, commitment, and service protect our freedoms and strengthen our community.

“This luncheon brings our community together, not just to share a meal, but to pause for a moment of gratitude—to look around the room and realize that we’re surrounded by people who run toward challenge, not away from it,” said Temple Chamber Board Chair Ken Reeves in his opening remarks.

The program featured keynote speaker Capt. Dale Dye, USMC (Ret.), a decorated Marine, actor, author, and one of Hollywood’s most respected military consultants. Dye inspired attendees with stories of resilience and leadership drawn from more than 20 years of service and a career shaping the authenticity of films such as Platoon, Saving Private Ryan, and Band of Brothers.

While active-duty soldiers from Fort Hood were unable to attend due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, Chamber President & CEO Whitney Theriot announced that the Chamber would deliver barbecue meals as a gesture of continued support. “Even when things pause at the federal level, gratitude in Temple does not,” she said.

The luncheon also included a special presentation of the Leadership Excellence Scholarship, established in partnership with American Legion Post 133 to recognize exceptional JROTC cadets who demonstrate outstanding leadership, integrity, and commitment to service.

The first-ever recipients were Cadet Kenneth O’Bar of Temple High School and Cadet Dylan Domanowski of Belton High School. “Their dedication, discipline, and drive to serve remind us that leadership begins long before a title—it begins with character,” said Camryn Bintz, who presented the scholarship announcement with American Legion Post 133 Commander John Potts.

In closing, Theriot thanked the presenting sponsors and community partners whose continued support made the event possible. “No matter the circumstances, Temple shows up,” she said. “We come together, lift each other up, and carry forward the legacy of those who have served before us.”

For photos and highlights from the 41st Annual Military & First Responder Salute to Service, visit templechamber.com/mfrs2025. 

Early Voting is happening now for the November 4, 2025 Election, and Central Texans have important decisions to make that will shape the future of our communities.

In addition to 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution, voters in our region will also decide on school bond propositions for both Belton ISD and Temple ISD, critical measures that directly impact local education, infrastructure, and economic development.
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These decisions influence more than classrooms or policies, they affect workforce readiness, quality of life, and the long-term strength of our business community.

Here’s how to stay informed and make your vote count:

1) Educate Yourself:
​​​Review the 17 proposed constitutional amendments and local bond propositions before heading to the polls.

- 17 proposed Constitutional Amendments:
    Texas Secretary of State at www.sos.texas.gov
            - Local Bond Propositions:
                TISD – Letter from the PAC Chair
                Vote Yes for BISD Kids

2) Vote Early:
Early voting runs October 20–31, giving you the flexibility to cast your ballot ahead of Election Day and avoid long lines.

- Bell County Elections Department  www.bellcountytx.com/departments/elections
 
3) Engage Locally:
Encourage your employees, colleagues, and peers to vote. Informed civic participation strengthens the foundation for thriving businesses and vibrant communities.
 
The Temple Chamber of Commerce remains committed to promoting informed civic engagement. Thriving businesses depend on strong communities and strong communities depend on active, informed voters.

Make your plan to vote early, stay informed, and help shape the future of Temple, Belton, and Texas.