"AI great white shark nonsense highlights public gullibility " by: Jessica Shepard

   It’s been over 50 years since Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws” took to the big screen and stirred up public fear and panic about Great White sharks.      Granted, that probably wasn’t Spielberg’s goal, but there are several studies that show the movie impacted public perception of sharks overall.

"Current market shows when bad news is good news" by: John Sample

   There are numerous trite expressions related to investing.      One is buy on the rumor sell on the news.      Well last week the news couldn’t have been worse.      Though there is a ceasefire in Iran, no crude is making it through the Strait Of Hormuz.

PSA: Risks threaten Gen Z’s retirement - and how to tackle them

   For Gen Z workers, saving for retirement may feel out of reach.      High-interest credit cards and student loan payments can drain a paycheck before the month even begins. With rising rents and higher everyday prices, there’s barely room for anything beyond the basics.

"Reel Reviews: ‘Project Hail Mary’ film great for popcorn, easy storyline" by: Jessica Shepard

   Every time I learn about some new movie set in space to save the planet Earth from something terrible, I’m reminded of my favorite quote from the 2009 “Star Trek” reboot film.     In that flick, Dr.

One of a kind

   Some folks make it their mission in life to change their significant other, family members or friends.      When those close to them don’t measure up to their standards, they feel empowered to reign them in to their way of thinking or doing.

"Pet personalities seem to change with age" by: Jessica Shepard

   Now that April is steamrolling right ahead, I’m reminded that sometime this month – or right at the end of March thereabouts – Jack-Jack our orange tabby rescue cat made his grand appearance.  Now, we didn’t have him pop up on our radar until the tail end of May last year.

"Uncertain times are arriving with the Spring wildflowers" by: John Sample

   I sincerely you had a wonderful Easter with your family and friends.  Here in the Hill Country, we were blessed with rain that was seriously needed.  It cut into my yard work, but that was fine by me. It will always be there next week.

PSA: Four stages of raising confident, money-smart kids

   Teaching good money habits starts early and grows through every stage of life.With young children, begin simply.  Three jars labeled “Spend,” “Save,” and “Share” can help them understand what money is and learn that saving for something special takes patience.

"Reel Reviews: ‘Super Mario Galaxy’ movie full of franchise references" by: Jessica Shepard

   While most of my Mario in-game knowledge is limited to the late 1990s, I’m still always excited to see the Nintendo franchise’s characters appear on screen.I mean, I’ve been playing video games since I could hold a controller, but the Mario franchise holds some of my earliest memories, too.