Agencies, universities seek $24.6 billion in new funding

The Texas Senate’s chief budget writer said state agencies and higher education institutions have requested nearly $25 billion in funding as the legislative session gets underway. State Sen.

A Fishing Trip to Remember

You never know what’s going to happen when you go fishing In Alaska. Some fishermen up there are set netters. “They set their nets out,” says Joe Bob Brewster who ranches around Crystal Falls just outside of Breckenridge. He calls his ranch NPR, No problem Ranch.

So, who’s missed me?

I know what you must be thinking. I’ve been thinking it myself. Three weeks into a brand-new year, and the editor of the newspaper finally decides to show up for work. What gives; right?

2 Cents Worth

Good morning to all my friends that read the column, thanks for letting me know how much you enjoy it, I enjoy visiting with you every week, just wish I could talk to all of you.

Faces & Places

Happiness comes from helping others, by being with others, and by sharing, even if it's only a smile. ~Zain Hashmi, A Blessed Olive Tree: A Spiritual Journey in TwentyBy now, y’all should know me well enough that I will take on a story that jumps up begging to be heard.

Playing with matches

This little light o’ mineI’m gonna let it shine.Hide it under a bushel, no.I’m gonna let it shine. – Old Black spiritual, Civil Rights Era anthemHow far that little candle throws his beams!So shines a good deed in a naughty world.

A Christmas Challenge Analysis

It shouldn’t take the typical reader long to realize the DMC newsroom is taking this week to put its seriousness on a shelf and take a breath of fresh air before heading into the Christmas break and the inevitable new year.

Friendly Reminder

Let’s Bring Back the Art of Thoughtful CommunicationDo you remember writing letters and waiting patiently for a response? In a world of instant reactions on social media, we’ve lost some of the joy in crafting thoughtful messages that stand the test of time.

Phelan drops bid for speaker; no clear winner yet

House Speaker Dade Phelan withdrew last week from seeking another term leading that chamber. After three rounds of voting on Saturday, state Rep. David Cook, R-Mansfield emerged as the preference of most House Republicans. However, his opponent, state Rep.

The Queen of Signs

“I’m known as Nana the banana pudding lady,” says Nancy Doyle of Eldorado. “I make banana pudding for different occasions like fir the high school football team when they have their team supper. And I make them for funerals, just whatever.”Nancy is also known as the hot cracker lady.