Response Reports

The following first responder calls were made July 21–Aug. 3. Local first responders handled 145 calls during this two week timeframe and PD completed 53 traffic stops.Dublin PD July 22A vehicle crash occurred on South Liberty/FM 1702 when a driver hit an animal and the vehicle quit working.

Sales tax holiday this weekend

This weekend marks the last weekend before school starts to get school supplies and other necessities, and is the state-wide annual sales tax holiday.

United presents scholarships to local students

United Cooperative Services recently announced that 16 member-students have been selected to receive a share of $45,000 in scholarship funds as part of the cooperative’s 2025 scholarship program.This year’s top honors went to Jenny Nguyen of Venus High School, who received a $10,000 scholarship.

Peach & Melon this weekend

This weekend marks the 109th annual De Leon Peach and Melon Festival, and festival goers are anticipating finding all kinds of sweet treats at the event.Peach and Melon Festival will kick off Wednesday, Aug. 6 at 11 a.m.

FCBT reports Q2 financial results

Farm Credit Bank of Texas (FCBT) reported solid earnings, loan growth, and sustained credit quality in the second quarter and first half of 2025.Net income was $48.5 million and $100.0 million for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2025; decreasing 2.6% and increasing 1.

Fishing Report

BROWNWOODSLOW. Water stained; 82-85 degrees; 0.20 feet below pool. Black bass to 8.35 pounds are slow in 8-25 feet of water on trick worms and square bill cranks. Dog days of summer has hit. Fishing is tough all over the lake. Early and late will be your best bet on catching any fish.

Berry’s Picks

Prepare Now for Wildland FiresWe have had an excellent run with good moisture and mild temperatures. But alas, summer is starting to make its presence known. Topsoil moisture is beginning to dry out in most areas, and it is only a matter of time until we start seeing stress in our perennial grasses.

Crop Report

AgriLife Extension district reporters prepared the following summary for the Central Texas district: The district experienced hot temperatures with minimal rainfall, causing soil moisture levels to decline and drought stress to emerge in some areas.Burn bans were in place for some counties.

Applications sought in 2025 Frey grants

Applications for Birdie Hartsough Frey grants to be awarded in 2025 are now being taken online at www.jpmorgan.com/ onlinegrants. The deadline for applications is August 31, 2025.

Responders serve kids, community