"Lego’s ‘Mineral Collection’ reminds me to buy more building block sets" by: Jessica Shepard

   While I was growing up, Lego sets were really boring and uninteresting to me mostly because the directions for specific build sets weren’t items I wanted.I’m talking about the basic pirate, knights or city job sets that had you constructing a castle or lame vehicles.

"Happiest of Holiday celebrations on our Nation’s Big Birthday" by: John Sample

   As we move to the celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday, there is plenty to sit back and take stock.  The various indexes and averages are up double digits this year.  In bull markets, the crowd comes in and we are witnessing some of the largest margin positions ever.

PSA: Turn your savings into paychecks in retirement

   Retirement changes everything - especially how you feel about your money.  After years of saving, spending can feel uncomfortable.  But a clear strategy helps you move forward with confidence.  Start with a conservative budget and give yourself permission to spend those amounts.

"Reel Reviews: Supergirl’ debut packs more fun than 2025’s ‘Superman’ reboot" by: Jessica Shepard

Look, after last year’s ‘Superman” reboot letting me down, I went in to see “Supergirl” over the weekend with very low expectations.

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Reminiscing about our unforgettable memories, adventurous travels, first car, pulling out the ‘Get Out of Jail’ card to escape punishment when we were rubbing elbows a little too closely with danger - are full-circle story moments we can look back on with humor because we know the situational...

Resolution #6 beat the peak. HVAC and more

July   When summer temperatures rise in South Texas, the heat above your living space – your roof, attic and HVAC, will dictate how hard your air conditioner has to work.

"Dogs and I agree where to walk in these skeeter-infested times" by: Mike Reddell

   I heard a prayer on Monday asking the Good Lord to let up on the rain, acknowledging of course we are grateful for the abundant rain we’ve received.  Very rarely would I even consider bringing up a prayer given at a government meeting.

"NWS a challenge to cover alarming, real threat to animals" by: Jessica Shepard

   Out of all the disheartening things that come with this job, I think the one that bothers me most is when someone thinks that news reports are all made up and full of conspiracies.

"Summer is here and I have just about worn out the mower already" by: John Sample

   The negotiations over a peace treaty with Iran have hit a bump in the road with the conflict in Lebanon.  Israel has continued to attack Hezbollah in Lebanon irking Iran with a debate about whether the Straits of Hormuz will stay open.    On the positive side, the price of WTi holing around $76.

PSA: Five questions that could change how you see retirement

   Retirement is about more than saving. It’s also about knowing what you’re saving for.  If you’re within five to ten years of retirement, now is the time to start building a plan around the life you actually want.  Ask yourself these five questions to help shape your retirement vision.