DOUBLE HONORS

Plan approved by voters falls $154 billion short of immediate Texas water needs

Additional reporting by Carlos Nogueras Ramos, Colleen DeGuzman and Alejandra Martinez Texas Tribune Hereford must acquire additional water rights in the immediate future, as must many Panhandle and South Plains cities.That need is evident in the 50year 2026 State Water Plan.

Church

Central Church of ChristPsalm 94 tells us a lot about the Lord. He is the shaper of the human ear and the designer of human eyes (94:9). It is He who teaches man knowledge and disciplines the nations (94:10). He is judge of the earth (94:2). This ancient Hebrew poem calls on all of us to understand.

Xcel Energy to meet growing energy needs across Texas and New Mexico

As communities and businesses across Texas and New Mexico continue to grow, Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) has selected a proposed portfolio of new power generation projects designed to provide reliable power, manage costs and deliver long-term customer value.

Speed limits lowered on several northwest county roads

Locals were already having to poke along on many of the county roads involved, lest their vehicles become rattletraps, but county commissioners made lower speed limits official on an array of mostly northwestern county roads during a regular meeting July 14 at the County Courthouse.

MIGHTY MAROON MARCHERS

The Mighty Maroon Marching Band welcomed incoming freshmen students last week, and on Monday the entire band met up to begin summer band practice.

Community Energy Assistance Program available through PCS

Given high temperatures the Panhandle has seen in the first half of the summer and more likely to come, electric bills associated with air conditioning have proven substantial for many families.

LAUGHS OF THE WEEK

Actual bumper stickers* I don’t suffer from insanity, I enjoy every minute of it.* Hard work has a future payoff. Laziness pays off NOW.* Tell me to ‘stuff it’ – I’m a taxidermist.* IRS: We’ve got what it takes to take what you’ve got.

What the return of New World screwworm means for human health

Reports of the New World screwworm returning to the United States have raised concern. Driven northward from Central America and expanding across our southern borders, this parasitic fly has officially reemerged after a 44-year absence, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).