A career diplomat told President Andrew Jackson on Dec. 16, 1829 the inside story of how the Sabine River became the dividing line between Louisiana and Spanish territory -- a political bombshell Old Hickory waited 15 years to drop.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision to reverse a lower court’s ruling and uphold the mid-decade redrawn congressional map for Texas sent candidates scrambling to file or opt to retire with the filing deadline on Monday, Dec. 8. The map is likely to give Republican candidates wins in up to five congressional districts previously held by Democrats.

When I was in 7th grade at La Grange Middle School, my class took a field trip to the Alamo. Before we even stepped off the bus, the teachers gave us clear instructions: behave, don’t touch anything, respect the property. Naturally, the very first thing I did was pour my Dr. Pepper into one of the old cannons. As a result, I spent the rest of the day glued to a teacher’s side.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping how families uncover their roots in places like Schulenburg and throughout Fayette County. For many locals, memories of lively gatherings at Sengelmann Hall where homestyle cooking, music, and dancing filled the air. Today, a new kind of gathering is taking place, as folks sit with computers and family photographs, using AI to explore and connect their family histories.

“There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America.” Bill Clinton’s observation captures an enduring truth about our democracy—that its greatest strength lies not in perfect institutions, but in engaged citizens willing to address our challenges. Ronald Reagan echoed this sentiment when he said, “America is great because America is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.” Both leaders understood that our nation’s character flows from its people, not its government.

When grey hair permanently colonizes your scalp, or when a comb over becomes less a choice and more a survival tactic, something unexpected happens. You start to feel invisible.

To the editor: I’m always amazed when I read an article about Round Top written by someone who has rarely or never attended a Town Council meeting nor contacted anyone on the Council nor the Mayor’s office about their particular subject. Many of the problems of Round Top, unfortunately are occurring outside the one square mile.

To the editor: A recent article regarded River Clogged By Plants should be of interest to all those who come in contact with the Colorado River. The river is clogged or nearly clogged by algae growing in the water that is partly treated wastewater.

To the editor: I read in the FCR not long ago that local leadership in Fayette County is planning a 250 year birthday celebration for America next year. I would like to register an affirmation.

To the editor: Regarding Bill Balch’s letter to Editor last week, I must have touched a nerve with my November letter to the Editor. And I want to ask you Mr.