Opinion

Over the last several weeks, my office has received numerous phone calls and emails in regards to the COVID-19 vaccine mandates the federal government has put in place. In July, President Joe Biden began rolling out vaccine requirements for federal employees and federal contractors and calling on employers to do the same.

Like most mothers, I rely on my monthly calendar to know if I am coming or going – and on a good day that would include coming from and going to the correct place with the correct kid (which is a lot more difficult than it sounds).

The Hotel Occupancy Tax Funds (HOT) recently approved at a City Council Meeting have been the subject of much discussion. The Texas Legislature created the tax in 1959.

It’s the time of year where we think about all of the things we are grateful for. For years, I had a business and I’m grateful to have been able to exit gracefully.

Against my better judgment, I accompanied my daughter’s fourth-grade class on her field trip to Austin to visit the Capitol Building. This is kid number four in my menagerie of offspring.

As a Texas Game Warden, it has been my privilege to serve the welcoming communities of Austin County. During my daily patrols, I am often approached by curious individuals interested to learn more about fishing licenses or deer season projections.

We almost believed we had a crime wave going on, which perplexed us all, especially since it’s Christmas and all. It all began when old man Ortega’s rooster disappeared.

I have a special needs son. I write about it frequently on my social media accounts. I use those sharing moments as opportunities to increase awareness; because awareness is the greatest tool that I have in my box of tricks for helping my son live the best quality of life that he can.

From the City Manager… • Open Enrollment Completed, all have made their health selections. • Ashley Barnett, new HR administrator, started work Tuesday so Dayl’s part-time help no longer needed.