Texas leads the nation in book ban attempts

The American Library Association reported that Texas saw the most book ban attempts of any other state in 2022 with 93 attempts to restrict access to 2,349 titles. The number doubles the total in the second-highest state, Pennsylvania.

Nursery Rhyme re-visit

As I get older, I try to learn something every day. That’s not always possible, because some days I just watch reruns. I’m not alone in this mission. My friend Lucas spent months trying to read deeper meanings into old nursery rhymes. For instance, “Incy Wincy Spider climbed up the waterspout.

TDCJ goes on lockdown

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) is taking swift and immediate action to address a rise in dangerous contraband and drugrelated inmate homicides. Over the last five years, the volume of illegal narcotics entering the system has substantially increased.

Editor’s Message

Your kid is thirsty, you get up and get him a drink. Your kid’s room is a mess, you clean it. You are your child’s maid, housekeeper and waitress. When is this supposed to end? Perhaps you woke up one day and realized your 15--year-old doesn’t know how to use the microwave or do the dishes.

Pet Talk

Animals are being dumped all over Texas. You see it every single day. Animal cruelty appears in many different ways, but all actions are against the law. If you can no longer take care of your pet, there are legal choices you can make to make sure your pet is still cared for.

Library Lines ...

Early September2023, marks the 50th anniversary of the completion of our building here at 103 S.W. Second Street in Dimmitt. Known as Rhoads Memorial Library, the 7,700 square foot facility was built for approximately $155,000 in 1973 on land purchased from First State Bank at a price of $25,000.

Keep me fit, Lord!

Several months ago, I joined a Senior Fitness Group. This group focuses on building and maintaining strength, balance, and a healthy heart. Attending these sessions takes time— even though there are times I don’t really feel like going.

Ag producers struggle with higher input costs

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently released its first costof- production forecast for field crops like corn, cotton, sorghum and winter wheat. While some input costs are coming down slightly, others remain elevated and dent the economic outlook for 2024.

Tongue Tamer

Stubbing my toe is painful. Hitting the funny bone of my elbow is no laughing matter; both are unintentional and fortunately happen infrequently. The biting of my tongue takes me by surprise and discomfort lasts for days. Yet, I’d be far better off biting my tongue than back biting.

Farmers struggle with emergency response payments

Farmers say the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has yet to provide emergency response payments from last year and it’s adding extra financial stress as inflation, drought and higher costs affect growing more crops.