Groundhog Day

A little history about this annual ritual about the weather on February 2 The first official Groundhog Day celebration took place on Feb. 2, 1887, in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The annual ritual has roots in pre-Christian traditions and was brought to the U.S. by German immigrants.

Farm bill

The incoming Congress must do better for farmers and hungry Americans At the very last second, Congress did just enough to keep hungry Americans and farmers afloat as 2025 kicks off.

LOOKING BACK

10-20-40-100 YEARS AGO 100 YEARS AGO William Dalrymple, 81-yearsold, who resided eight miles East of Lexington, died Wednesday afternoon after a few days’ illness. Mr. Dalrymple was one of the best-known men in this area.

Life in a growing county

This week, I thought we might look at the future of Milam County and how we are preparing. I know there are a lot of people who fear the future growth and are just looking for things to stay the same here in Milam County. Believe me, I understand that perspective.

The distracting beauty of Mrs. Shoemake

There was a family who came to Rockdale with Alcoa in 1970. Their last name was Englishbee. Until this past weekend, I never realized they lived in Pettibone and were bussed to school in Rockdale.

Bless others by letting them give to us

Tex Sample, in his book, Earthy Mysticism, tells of being invited to preach in Kansas City. Before the service began the congregation engaged in their traditional, informal moments of sharing.

Happy Christians

There is a story about a church that was maybe not as outgoing, not as friendly as they should be, so the pastor announced they would start a “handshake” time the following Sunday.

Child tax credit

Congress has failed millions of children stuck in poverty Amid the darkness of COVID, there emerged a bright ray of public policy that promised to do something so amazing it should be welcomed by all: eradicate child poverty in the United States.

Some church humor and a sad tale

FALLING FAR FROM THE TREE Don’t forget to come to the library on Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. for librarian Melanie Todd’s retirement party. She’s retiring after 30 years! See ad on page 7A. All are invited. —kwc— Vanished.

Place of Hope needs our help

JUDGE’S COMMENTS Last week we spoke about CASA of Milam County, and their work in the foster care system. Child Advocacy of any sort should be of our highest priority. Too many times in today’s world, children are marginalized.