Closed Primaries, Closed Futures: Why a Court Fight in Amarillo Matters to Rural Texas

A few weeks ago, while driving across parts of rural West Texas, I spoke with Nick Troiano, the executive director of Unite America.

WE THE GOVERNMENT

Whether it was intention or happenstance, this month not only marks the end of the year but also the end of a decade-long journey to overturn the will of Fisher County voters. Last week, officials turned the final page in a chapter that many would say they began writing after the 2014 election.

Abbott’s Tax Plan Promises Relief — But Puts Rural Texas on the Chopping Block

Last month, Governor Greg Abbott unveiled what he calls a “bold” plan: eliminate school district property taxes on homesteads and replace roughly $35 to $39 billion in local school funding with the state’s current budget surplus and other state revenues.

BE NICE OR BE QUIET

I didn’t plan on taking so long to provide editorial commentary after the City of Rotan’s revised public comment rules, and I apologize. When I read Rotan’s new policy, I immediately realized the discovery of a political valve that allows citizens in and keeps criticism out.

Closed Primaries, Closed Futures: Why a Court Fight in Amarillo Matters to Rural Texas

Last week, while driving across parts of rural West Texas, I spoke with Nick Troiano, the executive director of Unite America.

A NEW YEAR IS COMING: WHERE ARE WE GOING?

Every December, I find myself staring at the same blinking cursor, thinking about how far we’ve come — and how far we still have to go. This year, that reflection feels heavier than usual.

The Best Small-Town Economic Vision Is to Invest in Your People

Recently, our city council voted to annex a vacant lot and an agricultural barn into the city limits— believing this project will open the door for new business opportunities. Their intentions are good.

Faces & Places

“I suppose none of what I’m saying matters. In a few years a search like this won’t even be necessary. We have instruments now that can be mounted on the underside of an airplane.

A WESTERN SWING DOCUMENTARY

When Mike Markwardt of Fort Worth was a student at Baylor, he had the nickname Cricket because he could make the sound of a cricket. As a youngster he sang with various groups but he put his singing talent to rest and had a career in the import business, dealing with dozens of foreign countries.

2 Cents Worth

Are you stuffed with ham, dressing, pies, and all that good stuff from Thanksgiving like Joe and I are, but what fun, enjoy all the kids that could come and have a Thanksgiving meal with us, and I know all of you had the same. We gave thanks for all our blessings.