Community & Opinions

Scathing report released by DOJ on response to Uvalde shooting

issued a scathing report late last week on the May 4, 2022, mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, the Austin American-Statesman reported.

Quakes prompt officials to limit disposal wells

AUSTIN— The Texas Railroad Commission has suspended nearly two dozen permits that allow oil and gas companies to inject saltwater into the ground, which regulators say has contributed to increased earthquakes of greater magnitude in West Texas.

There was a doctor in the house, but few listened

After 34 days of travel, holiday family time, and capped off with four days in Austin among hundreds of students in closed quarters, I came home and tested positive for Covid. This is my second bout, the first coming in August 2021, when a new variant worked through the vaccine.

Voter registration deadline for primary approaches

Voter registration deadline for primary approaches AUSTIN— The deadline to register to vote in the Texas Democratic and Republican primary elections is Feb. 5. Voters on March 5 will choose their nominees for president, U.S. Senator, all 38 U.S.

Public and Civic Meetings Coming Up

City and State offices as well as banking institutions will be closed Monday, January 15, in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day. KENT COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT Mondays, Jan. 8 and Jan. 22, 9 a.m., County Courthouse, 101 Main St.

Grateful to workers in all weather

This is the time of year we often remember civil servants that ensure our comfort and safety. Our first thoughts are usually first responders, law enforcement, fire departments and teachers. But one group is often overlooked—county road hands and city maintenance workers.

2024 Community Calendar

SPUR VISITOR CENTER, 101 Hill Street at Burlington Avenue, is operated by the Spur Area Chamber of Commerce and open during regular hours Tuesday–Saturday. Vistiors seeking information on the area may email spurchamber@gmail.com or call (806) 271-3097.

All aboard!

It would be a disservice to romanticize my recent train trip, one that took me toVirginiaandthentoNorth Carolina and then back to Slidell, Louisiana. The fact that the trip was not luxurious or at times convenient does not minimize the advantages of traveling by rail.

Spate of new laws effective Jan. 1

After the Texas Legislature spent much of 2023 in session, a bevy of new laws go into effect on New Year’s Day, though some have been delayed by lawsuits challenging their constitutionality.

Recycle and refresh in the new year

I’mgonnarecycle a few things this new year. I’ll reuse my car, now withover210,000milesonit. My clothes and shoes still fit, so there’s little need to add to the wardrobe as I have no grand openings, awards shows, or premieres to attend. Same friends. Same job responsibilities.