For a while now, most of my columns and comic strips have been Covid-19 related. Columns may be informative, but cartoons are comic relief. It’s been difficult to think of other things. The situation keeps changing, providing something new to write or draw.

Although I am a new voice to The Clifton Record, I am no stranger to this town. I was born and raised right here in Clifton.

Thank you for all the well wishes after my first “Capital Highlights” column last week. I also appreciate the emails suggesting topics of high interest.

Feral hogs, you’re not welcome here. For years we were sympathetic when friends and acquaintances told horror stories of marauding bands of feral hogs tearing up land, terrorizing animals and small children. One day we saw two big ol’ porkers running parallel to Highway 6--- in broad daylight. The traffic didn’t seem to concern them in the least.

Ed Sterling wrote this column for almost three decades, so let’s open by celebrating his contributions to the Texas Press Association and its members. Ed was the calm, steady voice keeping us informed and interested.

Here I sit on the computer instead of running wild and free at the County Wide Yard Sale! Other than being unable to visit my out-of-state children and granddaughters, this astonishing bit of self-control exhibits beyond a shadow of doubt how my life’s changed due to Covid-19. WE haven’t been affected in more serious ways such as contracting the virus ourselves--- or knowing personally someone who did, who became seriously ill or passed away as a result. Please understand I’m not making light of that. This virus is bad business.

COVID-19 turned aggressive to the point last week that the Department of Defense activated U.S. Army and U.S.

I don’t get it. Following fast on the heels of my last Facebook/Internet rant, here’s another, sparked by a local organization’s recent local event and FB page. There’s been a growing, pervasive and increasing lack of manners in cyber space and the world. This might result from a general dumbing down of society or failure of education --- or perhaps there’s just less attention to what Mama taught ya. Or should have.

“What the heck is a Doobie Brother, anyway?” My father asked. My dad didn’t like my music.

AUSTIN — Gov. Greg Abbott has again suspended elective surgeries in hospitals in 104 counties located within 11 of the state’s 22 trauma service areas.