Opinion

GUEST COLUMNIST My family will soon take advantage of our state’s tax-free weekend for clothing and school supplies, but none of our hard-earned money will go for distressed clothing. Coincidentally, none of the money we spend at the food court will purchase pre-chewed burritos.

GUEST COLUMNIST Recently, I took a break from my grueling summer staycation for a business trip to exotic Amarillo, Texas. (Try to contain your jealousy.) I had never visited Amarillo – other than passing through in the middle of the night on my way to Colorado ski resorts during my Clearasil-laden teen years – so I was fairly excited by the prospect, mainly of what I might find to eat there.

Matthew 6:22 (NIV): “The eye is a light for the body. If your eyes are good, then your whole body will be full of light.”.

GARDENER’S MAILBAG Dear Neil: Do you have any idea why my lantanas don’t bloom? They form pea-sized pods, but nothing more. There is something odd looking about the foliage in your photo.

Dear Editor, What is “Woke?” If you ask a person who claims to be “Woke” they may say it’s their awareness of social injustice and a need to work against it. In reality under the guise of “Woke” this person will accept corruption of the DOJ, Judges, Criminal Courts, and the Military.

Don’t thank Hollywood for “Sound of Freedom.” The movie, about a former Homeland Security agent who goes to Colombia and rescues more than 50 kids from child sex traffickers, is an action-thriller – a drama.

GUEST COLUMNIST Sometimes topics simply demand more research than a deadline allows. I couldn’t do justice to this week’s topic, so I’m kicking the can down the road by dishing out another batch of research- free random thoughts.

Jesus often spoke of His Kingdom- a place where His peace, joy, and love rule. It is not a place we can see with our eyes, at least not yet.

GARDENER’S MAILBAG Dear Neil: I’m almost certain this Arizona cypress is dying when I compare it to the ones on either side. Will it put them at risk if I leave it in place for a while? I don’t believe so.

Dear Editor, It was an absolute delight to once again witness one of Fort Stockton’s most cherished traditions – the Water Carnival. This unique experience offered a captivating display of community unity in celebration of our shared traditions and the remarkable individuals who make up our beloved small town.