News

For the last few years residents in Waxahachie have been eager to help a local homeless man whenever they get the chance. His name is Thomas, and he’s become somewhat of a familiar face around town.

Texans are seeing skyrocketing home electric bills this spring and summer, with many customers paying at least 50% more than they did for electric bills at this time last year. And nobody seems to know when costs will go down.

Inflation is a nightmare for the many Americans who already stretch their dollars to cover basic needs. What happens when those dollars lose value? Their choice is probably not about whether to cut streaming services or opt for store-brand groceries.

How easily frustrated are most people when their daily lives are rudely interrupted by the freight trains passing through big and small towns, U.S.A.? Ennis and Waxahachie are two such cities in Ellis County that are often impacted from train back-ups from time-to-time. It seems to happen almost daily.

Gardening when there’s severe drought means setting priorities. Conserving water is always a good thing but it becomes non-negotiable when state and local governments enforce restrictions. AP gardening writer Jessica Damiano says that if you plan ahead you can use rain barrels or xeriscaping or plant native plants. At this point in the season you should focus on the plants you want to help most. Newly planted trees and shrubs need deep and regular watering. Older trees also can suffer from drought. And you’ll probably want to save perennials. Watering the garden early in the morning is best. Invest in soaker hoses or drip irrigation instead of sprinklers. Use recycled household water. And keep the soil mulched and weed-free.

NEW YORK (AP) — Frankfurtermunching phenom Joey “Jaws” Chestnut put a protester in a chokehold while gobbling his way to a 15th win Monday at the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest, powering down 63 hot dogs and buns at the annual exhibition of excess.