First Responders

The pandemic has given us a heightened appreciation for first responders. We’ve repeatedly heard stories about the work of those serving on the front line. God is calling His people to prayer. Are you a first responder? Do we think of prayer as the last resort or our first response?

Abbott authorizes National Guard to enforce Texas law at border

Governor Greg Abbott is surging Texas National Guard to better secure the border. The Guard is now authorized to enforce Texas law, including arresting people who have crossed the border illegally and violated Texas law.

HPWD expected to approve tax hike

The High Plains Water District Board of Directors will discuss and take action to adopt the 2021 tax rate at their Sept. 14 regular meeting. The meeting will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the HPWD office, 2930 Avenue Q, in Lubbock.

New laws affecting TDLR licensees take effect Sept. 1

More than 30 new state laws that will affect more than 500,000 Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) licensees will go into effect September 1, 2021. Some laws will take effect later. The laws were passed during the 87th Regular Session of the Texas Legislature.

Xcel Energy makes leadership changes

Xcel Energy announced last Thursday that Bob Frenzel has been appointed president and CEO of the company. Ben Fowke, the current chairman and CEO will remain at Xcel Energy as executive chairman of the Board of Directors.

USDA accepts 2.8M acres into CRP

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has accepted 2.8 million acres in offers from agricultural producers and private landowners for enrollment into the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) in 2021.

Texas school mask mandate battle still underway

The Texas Supreme Court cleared the way Thursday for school districts to require people to wear masks in classrooms — at least for now.

USDA updates CFAP2 for producers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is updating the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program 2 (CFAP 2) for contract producers of eligible livestock and poultry and producers of specialty crops and other sales-based commodities.

Castro County Community Calendar

Community Aug. 27-28 Castro County Fair/Harvest Days. Castro County Court House Square. Booth rentals - $30 and $40 depending on size. No electricity, awnings, chairs or tables furnished. Contact Cathy Nelson at 806-869-7550 or email cathynelson@gmail.com for information or to rent a booth.