FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: The atheist’s gentle sentiment

  Part 2 Welcome to the “Front-Porch.” “What about Jesus?” Stroebel asks gently, after a long silence. “What do you think about Jesus?” The answer is surprising. That’s how we concluded our previous “front-porch” visit.

OUT TO PASTOR: Back in the saddle... finally

  After about three months of wrestling with a variety of bug thingamajigs, I ended up with a case of acute bronchitis. The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage and I, during that time, competed in a coughing and sneezing contest. Unfortunately, she won the contest.

DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE: Let’s talk about Iran, Trump, and the next major plot twist

  Let’s talk about Iran. Let’s talk about Trump. Let’s talk about true or false information and what Americans who find it easier to complain than figure out a solution need to be reminded.

Murder charges filed against 19-year-old

  RED OAK – Ellis County Sheriff  Deputies responded to a shooting Sunday, April 5 at 2:33 a.m. in the 200 block of Hearne Lane in Red Oak. According to the Sheriff’s office, the shooting involved an adult male victim who sustained a gunshot wound.

Distemper reported in Waxahachie

  ELLIS COUNTY – Waxahachie Animal Services reported last week there have been reports of a high rate of wildlife – foxes and raccoons – in Waxahachie that have tested positive for distemper. Distemper is a viral illness that affects certain wildlife species.

Celebrating 74 years of Ennis Bluebonnet Trails

  Ennis was designated by the 1997 State Legislature as the home of the Official Texas Bluebonnet Trail and was designated the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas. From April 1-30, Ennis showcases over 40 miles of mapped driving Bluebonnet Trails sponsored by the Ennis Garden Club.

Family altercation ends with gunfire, arrest

  MIDLOTHIAN – Midlothian Police investigated a shooting this past week. On April 5 at 7:13 p.m., North Ellis Emergency Dispatch Center received several 911 calls regarding a shooting in the 400 block of Brook Meadow Drive in Midlothian.

EYES ON ELLIS COUNTY (April 16, 2026)

  ALMA Alma is inviting everyone to attend a kickoff for early voting at the Alma Candidate Mixer on April 20 at Alma Community Center from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. BARDWELL Bardwell’s cleanup day will be April 25 from 9 a.m. to noon.

Upcoming Election, May 2, 2026

Joint General and Special Elections - May 2, 2026 Elecciónes General y Especial Conjunta - 2 de Mayo de 2026 Joint Notice of Election Aviso de conjunta de elección   To the registered voters in Ellis County having General and Special Elections: Para los votantes registrados del Condado de Ellis que...

FERRIS PUBLIC LIBRARY: More than Books (April 16, 2026)

  We have a fun and busy couple of weeks ahead at the library, so be sure to mark your calendars and join us! We’ll kick things off with Game Time on April 16 from 4 to 5 p.m. with an hour of relaxed, hands-on fun where kids can unwind, play, and enjoy some friendly competition.