Big Cat Makes a Panhandle Area Splash

So when you think about Mountain Lions, you think about mountains, and not necessarily the prairie. But the landscape in this part of the Panhandle is pretty rugged, after all, and supports a great deal of wildlife. Just ask any of the out-of-town hunters we see every season.

LIBRARY LINES ... BY GAYE REILY

'Winter Wonderland' is the theme of the upcoming Adult Winter Reading program that will commence Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, here at Rhoads Memorial Library.I realize the irony in the title as this winter has been exceedingly warm, with highs in the 60s and 70s and almost no precipitation.

CASTRO COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT

CASTRO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE Persons Arrested & Booked into Jail November 17 to December 29, 2025 All information of persons arrested and booked into the Castro County Jail are open records: November 17Eddy Chavers, 48, of Dimmitt was arrested by the Dimmitt Police for Forgery.

Castro County Judge’s Report

As Christmas decorations come down and routines return, we find ourselves in that hopeful stretch of the year when resolutions are still strong and commitments feel fresh.

Our Blood Institute, Coffee Memorial Blood Center Issues Urgent Call for Type O Donors

Our Blood Institute-Coffee Memorial Blood Center is in critical need of type O blood donors, with supplies of both O-positive and O-negative blood at low levels following the holidays.

Castro County Community Calendar

Regular Meetings/Continuing Events Check for cancellations before attending.Annual Hwy to Hell-O Terlingua and DVFD Golf Scramble. Chili Cookoff turn in 2 p.m. Salsa turn-in at noon; beans turn in 1 p.m. Cooking outside pool area at Dimmitt Country Club. Raf- e for $1,000 Visa gift card.

Tree pruning tips

Successful pruning can improve tree health, boost flower and fruit production, and create an attractive landscape. However, improper pruning, such as randomly cutting with chainsaws or loppers, can cause unnatural growth, weak structure, and reduced productivity.

Warm, dry holiday weather elevates wildfire risk across Texas

Unseasonably warm and dry conditions, along with freezecured grasses are raising wildfire risks during the holidays across the Lone Star State, the Texas A&M Forest Service warns.Texas is forecast to experience unusually warm and dry weather during this holiday season.

Hope Is the Vibe: Start 2026 with a Chance to Win $5,000 When You Donate Blood

Our Blood Institute at Coffee Memorial Blood Center is kicking off the new year with hope, heart and a major $5,000 giveaway. From Dec. 26 through Jan. 12, every donor will be entered to win $5,000 to begin 2026 on a brighter note.