News

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THE BLOTTER

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Misdemeanor Arrests

• Ellen Jane Frost, 38, Grove, Oklahoma; possession of less than 2 ounces marijuana; 2/1/24; HCSO

Felony Arrests

• Ellen Jane Frost, 38, Grove, Oklahoma; possession of 2-4 grams of a controlled substance, Penalty Grade 2; 1/31/24; HCSO

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STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

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TEA annual report just released
The Texas Education Agency’s annual report was released last week. It indicates per-student funding in the 2021-2022 school year averaged $14,928 per student, up 42% since 2011. However, state funding has only risen slightly in the past decade, while local funding has increased substantially.
Texas public schools educate 5.518 million students while employing 371,778 teachers on 9,054 campuses, according to the report.

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‘Stewarding Our Water Future’ conference to be held March 21-22 in Amarillo

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‘Stewarding Our Water Future’ conference to be held March 21-22 in Amarillo

With the realization of depleting irrigation and domestic well levels, a continued emphasis on “economic development” at virtually any cost regardless of impact, and pervasive talk of a diminishing Ogallala aquifer, it’s easy to get discouraged and wonder aloud if there is any future for groundwater in the Texas High Plains.

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THE BLOTTER

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Misdemeanor Arrests

• Kyler Patric Koch, 25, Canadian; resist arrest, search or transport; 1/26/24; HCSO

• Devin Shane Thompson, 25; Prague, Oklahoma; warrant for possession of less than 2 ounces of marijuana; 1/29/24; HCSO

Felony Arrests

None

Citations

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Xcel Energy provides options for paying winter bills

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AMARILLO, Texas (Jan. 25, 2024) – Xcel Energy is reminding customers that cold weather can often lead to higher energy bills as area residents use more electricity to warm their homes and businesses. Customers who are concerned they might fall behind on payments are encouraged to apply for energy assistance or establish pay arrangements.