State Capital HIGHLIGHTS

An arctic storm that swept through the state bringing low temperatures and high winds also affected roughly two-thirds of the country’s population, according to the National Weather Service, bringing the coldest Christmas in decades to parts of the country.

Christmas on the Rails…

Less is heard about trains these days, particularly since the homegoing of Johnny Cash. He always loved train songs. Accounts of a single railroad car are even rarer, despite the jump start provided in 1930 by “The Little Engine That Could,” a children’s book.

State Capital HIGHLIGHTS

Most Texas pregnancy deaths preventable A long-awaited state report concludes most pregnancy-related deaths in Texas in 2019 were preventable and disproportionately affected Black women.

PASTOR’S CORNER

I love Christmas for many reasons. I love the music and the anticipation. I love shopping for loved-ones and I love the Christmas cards I receive in the mail from so many wonderful people.

Its Beginning to /Sound/ a Lot Like Christmas…

The intent of this piece is to provide comfort to folks who are hearing more than they want to hear. There is much noise in the world, some of it pushing Christmas carols— and other worthwhile sounds—to the side of the road.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

  To the staff at Leader News, Our deepest condolences on the loss of our dear friend Joella. She was a special lady that served our community and county well. Diligent worker, uplifting spirit and faithful friend. She will be missed. S/ Brad and Holly Enloe

State Capital Highlights

Retiring senator named Secretary of State Retiring state Sen. Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, has been named the next secretary of state by Gov. Greg Abbott. She replaces John Scott, who announced his resignation effective at year’s end.

PASTOR’S CORNER

Littlefield’s First United Methodist Church “You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.

A ‘Word in Wood’ Testimony…

Not until his later years did Rev. Jerry Neill have the time needed to hone his woodcarving skills, but when he did, he was relentless, turning out small art objects that soon cluttered his workshop.

Big Tech Uses Journalism; Big Tech Should Pay For It

The powers that Google and Facebook have over economic and political power in society – especially over the news industry— has caught the attention of lawmakers in Washington, DC.