TALES FROM TALES FROM SMITH

Body TUMBLEWEEDAs the creator and producer of “The Sound of Texas,” one of the longest running syndicated radio programs in Texas, Tumbleweed seeks fascinating people who embody the spirit of the Lone StarStateandbringsthemintothehomesandheartsofthousands.

When in doubt

Body Shed a Little Light SUE JANE SULLIVANNot sure what to make of the U.S.involvement in Venezuela?Concerned about what’s going on with Greenland?Still on the fence about the release of unredacted Epstein files?What about ICE tactics?

Brisket and bean slow-cooker chili

Body CUISINE & CULTURE | ANGELINA@ANGELINALARUE.COMAs temperatures dip, stock up on pantry items like chicken and beef stock, or keep bullion in the cupboard to make a pot of stock in a pinch.

The 501

Body COMMENTARYWhen I was about 6 years old, the English language began playing tricks on me. It still does, but I’m getting used to it.In our family, we called the toilet a commode. Toilet was an alternate word.

Planning a garden

Body CUISINE & CULTUREELLEN PEFFLEYPlanning a garden starts with making decisions on the crops that will be grown. In last week’s January 14 column were guides to be considered when selecting seed and the sources for various vegetables, herbs, flowers, and perennial crops.

SILVERTON SUPPORT

Body Silverton students and staff supported their cheerleaders from afar last week during the State cheer competition broadcast from Fort Worth.

Deadline to register for March primary nears

Body AUSTIN— The last day to register to vote for the March 3 primary is Feb. 2, according to the Texas secretary of state’s office. Early voting runs from Feb. 17 through Feb. 27, with Feb. 20 being the deadline for applying for a mail ballot.

CrossView Camp sets 2026 Festival of Tables date

Body CrossView Christian Camp’s 12th annual Festival of Tables fundraiser has been scheduled for March 21, 2026, at the Lone Star Cowboy Church in Lubbock.

Not too late to relate

Body “We were on a family trip, and we were on a flight—on Delta, from here to somewhere— and we were all sitting in the back of the airplane together.

Democrats Talarico, Crockett set first debate

Body AUSTIN— The first debate in the state’s Democratic primary for U.S. Senate is set for Jan. 24 in Georgetown, The Dallas Morning News reported. U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Dallas and state Rep. James Talarico of Round Rock are vying for the nomination.