The muscle of compassion

Body Compassion is not a switch we can turn off and on when it is convenient. Feeling something deep in our gut when we encounter hurting people is not as simple as deciding that this time we will care. Compassion is a muscle, and this muscle grows by being exercised.

Baker named TxDOT Childress assistant area engineer

Body CHILDRESS—Jordan Baker, P.E., was recently named the Childress District Assistant Area Engineer for the Texas Department of Transportation and will assume duties in the Childress Area Office on March 1. Baker earned his license as a professional engineer in December of 2024.

The 501

Body So what have you been doing?Moos over news.In the winter that’s how it goes. Needy cows have a way of crowding out anything else that’s happening anywhere.

House unveils its voucher version

Body AUSTIN— Texas House members filed a bevy of education bills last week, including a proposed $8 billion investment in public education and a voucher bill that ties the amount of money spent for private schooling to the dollar amount provided to public schools.

Muffin-tin lasagna a filling feast

Body Muffin tin-meals are a fun way to rework a traditional recipe. It’s a great method for creating pre-portioned meals. And it seems meals cooked in this manner are always a hit with kids; something about a mini version of anything is intriguing.

Tales of winter, cows, donkeys

Body By the time you’re reading this we all should be basking in Texas sunshine, reflecting on our days in the 2025 deep freeze and looking at a thin red line of mercury pushing 70. Some of us will have good stories. I hope I don’t. I probably will. Actually, I already do.

Plant potatoes mid-March for June crop

Body From the gardenA white potato crop hasa definite spot in spring gardens. Make plans now for a mid-March planting date. Planting mid-March gives plenty of time to grow a summer crop after the tubers are harvested in June.

FRIENDSHIP QUILTERS

Body Brrr! Winter doesn’t seem to want to leave us, but Wanda and Rose Mary quilted Thursday morning while I stayed home afraid I was taking cold. By noon I was okay and joined them.

Spring Break at Caprock Canyons State Park

Body Locals and tourists to the Caprock Canyons State Park will have plenty to do this year for Spring Break as Park Interpreter Natalie Smith has a “flock of exciting events” planned. I was able to catch up with the busy Smith for a rundown of what to expect, as March draws near.

Briscoe Co. Chili Cook-Off Winners

Body Here are the winners of this weekend’s Briscoe County Chili cook off.