The Gardenia E. Janssen Animal Shelter is open from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday for all normal operations. The shelter is closed Monday to the public with staff onsite for animal care from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Reclaims are allowed on Monday after 10 a.m. by appointment. If you believe your lost pet may be in care, call (979) 966-0021 to confirm and learn requirements.

C The Carmine 42 Club met on Dec. 10 at Windmill Ranch Lodge in Carmine for their Christmas party.

Caroline Cherry, auditioned for the TASSB Middle School All Regional band in early December. She was one of sixtysix trumpets to audition and placed eighth, earning her a seat in the Top Honor Band.

The University of North Texas Press recently published a collaboration with the Texas Historical Commission entitled “A Culinary Journey Through Texas History: A State Historic Sites Cookbook.” The cookbook contains recipes provided by State Historic Sites, including eight from the Kreische Brewery site in La Grange. Some of those include “Lebkuchen” (German gingerbread), “Mandelkuchen” (almond cake), and an interesting potato soup recipe featuring allspice and savory herbs called “Kartoffel Suppe.” Here’s what the publisher says about the book: “From its days as an independent republic, Texas boasts a rich past that unites people from all social classes and cultures.

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Jeff Kelly of West Point spotted a big cat in his hayfield several nights ago. “(I) only got to see him for a few seconds before he darted off,” Kelly said.