Ode to the unplanned

Shed a Little LightIn a very unexpected twist of fate, a majority of my teaching career has been highlighted by coaching speech and debate. (Speech is prepared or impromptu forms of communication, while debate involves cross-examination and semi-prepared speeches heavy on research).

Ballots set for Texas primaries

Texas will hold its 2026 primary elections on March 3, and The Texas Tribune has posted all of the candidates who have filed for the Democratic and Republican primary elections, according to the Secretary of State: https://apps.texastribune.

New laws taking effect in New Year

AUSTIN— A spate of new laws took effect on Jan. 1, The Dallas Morning News reported. Here’s a brief summary of the most notable new laws now in force:• County sheriff’s offices are now required to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after the passage of Senate Bill 8.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas

“Have yourself a merry little Christmas.It may be your last. Next year we may all be living in the past. Faithful friends who were dear to us Will be near to us no more.

More than 4 million real Christmas trees sold in Texas annually

AUSTIN— Real Christmas trees are an important contributor to the Texas economy, according to Texas A&M Forest Service, with more than 4 million sold each year. That generated a total economic contribution of $812.7 million and produced more than 6,000 jobs last year.

The gift of traditions

C O M M E N T A R Y | SUEJANESULLIVAN@GMAIL.COMHaving raised one Red Raider and one Aggie, I am enjoying watching my daughters revel in this year’s college football season. Both are living the fan dream.

Keen truth from a poetic song

COMMENTARYThe road goes on forever, and the party never ends.You’ve heard that line from Robert Earl Keen’s classic song. Maybe you know all the lyrics. I didn’t previously. Call me illiterate. But I just now read every verse. Let’s just say I was late to the party. Wow! What a story!

Sécateurs for garden gifts

CUISINE & CULTUREStumped on what to give the gardener on your Christmas list? A new set of sécateurs will always be an appreciated addition to a gardener’s toolbox.

‘Are you distracted?’

When I was a little boy, going on vacation each year meant leaving the flat, treeless surroundings of Lamesa, Texas, and heading to the mountains of New Mexico to go camping.My mother could never relax while my dad was driving because he loved to look at the scenery.

’Tis the season for concession stands

C O M M E N T A R Y | SUEJANESULLIVAN@GMAIL.COMSUE JANE SULLIVANFriday night lights are almost behind us (still cheering on Jayton in their quest for a three-peat). But never fear, the concession- stand season with basketball games on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays is upon us.