Child care centers closing across state

An unprecedented number of child care centers are expected to close across the state as pandemic relief funding ends, the Texas Standard reported.

Spiced Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Sweet potatoes and black beans make a stunning match when paired with a savory, spicy seasoning. This base is good for making burritos,tacos,andgrainbowls,tonameafew. Oneofmyfavoritewaystoservethismixture is as a taco filling. If you are so inclined, shredded chicken can be added to the mix.

Paragraphs & pixels

“It’s not because we’re so powerful; it’s because information is so powerful.” —Canadian Record publisher Laurie Brown to Judy Woodruff on “PBS News-Hour,” Aug. 2, 2023 If you live in a small town—as most of you do who are reading this— you’ve no doubt seen how swiftly hearsay can steal a march...

The 501

What’s the difference between a violinist and a fiddler? Not the instrument. By any other name, a violin is a fiddle is a violin. Attitude makes the difference. Fiddle players have more fun. I heard this from a very good fiddle player who once took a stab at learning to play the violin.

The Saga of the Socks, Part II

This saga is an update from 2021, so if you missed this the first time around, please read on, and if you remember it, please read on also as I’ve added the photo of the young lady in this and tweaked a few words in this “sock incident”.

Capital Highlights

Tax-relief plan headed to governor Proponents are calling it the “biggest property tax cut in Texas history.” Both chambers of the Texas Legislature passed an $18 billion package during the second special session, the Austin American-Statesman reported.

Pet Talk

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION — Pet owners may think it is adorable when their dog chases its tail or their cat suckles for comfort.But when these activities are persistent to the point that it disrupts their daily routines, it may be a sign that your pet has a more serious issue.

Financial Focus

How long will you live? Of course, your longevity is somewhat unpredictable. But it may be a good idea to plan for a long life — and the financial issues that go along with it. It’s reasonable to think you’ve got a long way to go.

The 501:

In a trusted online Farm Bureau publication, “Twenty Things on the Farm That Just Make Sense” piqued my curiosity. So, I started reading to see what sort of things qualified. No surprise, baling wire topped the list, followed by feed sacks.

Financial Focus

Mutual funds offer investors a chance to own shares in dozens of companies, as well as bonds, government securities and other investments. But you might be able to broaden your portfolio further by owning another type of fund — an exchange- traded fund (ETF).