Some questions need answers

Last week, as we finished the final Budget Town Hall meeting, as has happened several times in the last few weeks an attendee approached me to ask me what I thought of Governor Tim Walz’s claims surrounding his service in combat and his leaving his troops?

LOOKING BACK

10-20-40-100 YEARS AGO 100 YEARS AGO… The final arrangements and preparations were being made for the opening of the Rockdale Public Schools on Sept. 15.

Childcare

Small businesses face big challenges — starting with child care As the general election in November approaches, we’re already bombarded with ads, tailored messaging and constant campaign rhetoric.

The need for slowness

We were recently visit ing f r iends in Bandera where there is a wonderful restaurant, The Old Forge. Whoa, so scrumptious! A large sign within read, “It’s Worth The Wait.” What does waiting entail?

A vibrant church

The world’s greatest Rough Collie lives at our house and his name is Captain. The Blonde walks Captain almost every day, and she has a little circle she makes around the local elementary school and the high school before she heads back to the surf shack.

This year’s budget; preparing for growth

The last few weeks I have dedicated this column space for a discussion of the budget. We talked about reducing the tax rate over the last few years and how it will continue to go down due to the increase in new growth properties and the increase in property appraisals.

A couple of good jokes from Ashley Karl

On page 2A in this week’s paper there is a map of everyone’s address that is participating in this year’s Citywide Garage Sale so you can plan your shopping days this weekend.

Building bridges

The future of America’s political discourse Igrew up in a small town in Michigan, where my viewpoints were shaped by the people and context of the times—rooted in religion, community service and a suspicion of government intervention.

Jesus inviting us to follow Him

It occurs to me when I remember hymns such as “Where He Leads Me I Will Follow,” “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus,” “Take Up Thy Cross and Follow Me”—what does it mean to follow Jesus? Of course, literally countless sermons have addressed this; and entire books have been written about it.

Sacrifice is worth it

Mark 1:28 tells us, “And immediately His fame spread abroad throughout all the region about Galilee.” Mark wants us to know Jesus was famous - I like that. Jesus was the first rock star, the first major celebrity. People had never seen or experienced anyone like Jesus.