Open up

I’am a father, the son of a kindergarten teacher, and an American. I was also born in Uvalde, Texas. That’s why I’m writing this. I I believe that responsible, law-abiding Americans have a Second Amendment right, enshrined by our founders, to bear arms.

It’s insulting to salt your food in Egypt

As Americans, we get used to our way of doing things. But when traveling there are some customs that are completely opposite of the way things are here. A few examples: In Chinese culture, when you gift money you send it in a red envelope. A white envelope signifies misfortune such as funerals.

A small-world story from Normandy, France

A timely column from Publisher Emeritus Bill Cooke, originally published in 2008. The invasion of Normandy happened on June 6, 1944.—K.W.C. Folks, it really is a small world indeed. Our traveling group was sitting in our hotel restaurant in Bayeux, near the Normandy beaches.

Looking back... Through The Reporter Files

100 YEARS AGO… J.M. Hodges of Wharton was elected superintendent of the Rockdale Public Schools. Mr. Hodges was a strong, thorough school man, and the board of trustees considered itself fortunate in being able to secure his services.

Underutilized COVID funeral assistance funds

Dear Savvy Senior, I recently saw a news segment on TV about a government funeral assistance program available to families who lost loved ones during the pandemic. What can you tell me about this?

School security

In the aftermath of the elementary school massacre in Uvalde, schools around the U.S. have brought in additional security staff and restricted visitors as they deal with a new rash of copycat threats.

What is the definition of insanity?

After a school shooting there is a circle of events which happen every time. There is a media frenzy. Thought and prayers come next. Gun debates follow the prayers. Then, and this is the important part, no one does anything. And everything goes back to “normal.”

Jake Hasselbach’s salutatorian address

Bienvenidos, wilkommen, and welcome, B men, and welcome, When I first was told that I was going to be the salutatorian of the Rockdale High School class of 2022, the first question I asked was how long my speech had to be.

Looking back...

100 YEARS AGO… By taking two games from Sharp and besting Cameron in two out of three contests the Rockdale High baseball nine won the county championship. The team played a total of 12 games, winning six and losing six.

What do you pray for?

Our youngest daughter Klaire’s pick up truck got stolen recently. So we went down to Houston to help her buy a new car. It was the first time I had ever stayed in her studio apartment overnight and it was an adventure.