Opinion

"Buzzed!" is a sci-fi/horror musical satire by CJ Critt, set in the 1950s, tackling climate issues through a humorous tale involving honeybees, students, and a power-mad major. Featuring vibrant performances, diverse music, and inventive props, it runs July 24-27 in Dallas for audiences 14 and up.

Much has been sung

Of new flowers in Spring,

Bright reds, pinks, blues.

But these are just grace notes

In the wake of the election, the urgent threat to environmental protections from the new administration's plans requires action from all, leveraging legal systems, public opinion, and pressure. Citizens must support eco-friendly businesses, unite across communities, and ensure progress isn't reversed, recalling Churchill’s resolve against tyranny.

Here slept a streamside glade

Spring-lush with daisies, grasses;

Deer drifted down to drink

And doves sang in the sun.

This year's EarthX, held at the Anatole Hotel, maintains its dedication to diverse speakers and topics, despite a new location. Celebrations began on Earth Day as 'North Texas Day' with free events. Highlights included Native American perspectives on the environment and discussions on urban planning, volunteering, and conservation efforts.

"Eclipsemania" exceeded expectations, sparking both rational and spiritual contemplation similar to ancient sky studies. My lifelong fascination with celestial events continues through photography. Enjoy these photos from the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley. Nonprofits may use them with credit; for-profits must send a check and credit.

The LBJ National Grasslands, located 60 miles from Fort Worth, is a complex, scenic landscape administered by the U.S. Forest Service. Spread over 20,250 acres and divided into 67 units, it offers trails and diverse ecosystems and requires careful navigation, as there are no formal entrances.

Tent camping enriches outdoor experiences more than drive-through park visits. Despite common fears such as wildlife encounters, insects, and weather, camping offers a unique connection with nature. Modern gear, campsite safety, and learning to identify plants and animals mitigate concerns. Enjoy disconnecting from technology and immersing in Texas's natural beauty.

Two days in Southeast Texas’ Big Thicket provided a rare escape from urban noise, highlighting the pervasive effects of human-generated noise pollution. Research indicates such noise harms health and wildlife, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural quiet. Places like Lennox Woods offer peaceful retreats, underscoring the need for advocacy.

The author recounts a poignant farewell visit to Fairfield Lake State Park before its closure. Reflecting on cherished memories and ecological losses, they lament the area's development and environmental changes. The visit was marked by nostalgia and a somber awareness of nature's irreplaceable beauty.