Dinner Bell for January 29, 2025
DINNER BELL, First United Methodist Church
The doors to Fellowship Hall at First United Methodist Church will open at 11:00 a.m. Meal service begins at 11:30 a.m. and doors will close at 12:45 p.m. Please come join us to share fellowship and a meal.
Money Law and Title recently moved its Sulphur Springs headquarters to the spacious red brick building on the South east Corner of Sulphur Springs downtown and Oak Avenue with the purchase of Professional Land & Title.
Streamlining real estate transactions and closings requires legal expertise. Money Law Firm opened in 2013. A title fee office became a reality in 2016. In 2022 the law and title company transitioned into an independent agency to create Money Law and Title.
Offices are located in Greenville, Sulphur Springs, Terrell, Emory, Prosper and Sherman to serve the needs of the people of the North and Eastern areas of Texas.
Our 2nd sponsor for the week of January 29th is Bell Concrete, Inc. We are so pleased to have them as a new sponsor for the Dinner Bell Ministry. For over 70 years Bell Concrete has been delivering the best ready mixed concrete, sand, and aggregate. Their friendly staff ensures your project is completed with care and a smile! They are located in Green ville, Sulphur Springs, Dike, Arbala, Brashear, Birthright, Como, Seymour and Miller Grove, Texas.
Bell Concrete has the knowledge, skills, and expertise to handle projects of all sizes and complexities. Their team of pro fessionals is dedicated to meeting and exceeding our clients’ expectations; and, they ensure the job is done right the first time. They are fully licensed and insured, and take great pride in their workmanship. We greatly appreciate their sponsorship in this New Year.
We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christ mas and New Years Day.
MENU:
- Mexican Lasagna
- Brown Sugar Tarragon Carrots
- Tortillas
- Garden Salad with Guacamole Ranch Dressing
- Sopapilla Cheesecake
HAPPY 2025!!!!
The Dinner Bell Ministry
First United Methodist Church
Take care of YOURSELF by following safe health practices as flu and COVID are lurking in our midst! Wear masks where required! Wash your hands often! Get inoculated and boosted
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH !!!
*We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday …”
Buc-ee’s Takes on Competitor’s Logo
January 27, 2025 – Texas-based convenience store chain Buc-ee’s is suing Super Fuels, alleging that the latter’s dog logo is too similar to Buc-ee’s iconic beaver logo, constituting copyright infringement. The lawsuit claims that Super Fuels’ logo, which features a smiling cartoon dog wearing a red cap, creates confusion among customers and dilutes Buc-ee’s brand identity. Buc-ee’s is widely recognized for its beaver mascot, which has become a symbol of the company’s expansive travel centers and merchandise.
Super Fuels operates three locations in North Texas, and Buc-ee’s alleges that the competing logo is intentionally designed to imitate their well-known branding. The lawsuit argues that Buc-ee’s has invested heavily in developing its distinctive image, which has become synonymous with quality service and products.
Buc-ee’s has a history of aggressively protecting its intellectual property, having filed similar lawsuits in the past against other companies that it claims mimic its logo or marketing strategies. The company asserts that its beaver logo is a key element of its success and is closely tied to its reputation.
Super Fuels has not yet issued a public response to the allegations. The case, filed in federal court, seeks to prevent Super Fuels from using the dog logo and may include demands for financial damages.
This legal action underscores the importance Buc-ee’s places on safeguarding its brand identity, especially as it continues expanding across the United States. With a loyal customer base and a strong regional presence, Buc-ee’s is determined to maintain its competitive edge in the convenience store market. The outcome of this lawsuit could set a precedent for future disputes over brand and logo similarities in the retail industry.
Governor Abbott Directs Texas Military To Coordinate With Trump Administration
January 27, 2025 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott today directed the Texas Military Department to deploy the Texas Tactical Border Force to the Rio Grande Valley to coordinate with U.S. Border Patrol under the Trump Administration to secure the border. Departing from military bases in Fort Worth and Houston this morning, the Texas Tactical Border Force will surge over 400 additional soldiers, as well as C-130s and Chinook helicopters, to join thousands of Texas National Guard soldiers already deployed on the border to collaborate with U.S. Border Patrol agents on the border.
“Texas has a partner in the White House we can work with to secure the Texas-Mexico border,” said Governor Abbott. “To support that mission, today, I deployed the Texas Tactical Border Force, comprised of hundreds of troops, to work side-by-side with U.S. Border Patrol agents to stop illegal immigrants from entering our country and to enforce immigration laws. For the past four years, Texas held the line against the Biden Administration’s border crisis and their refusal to protect Americans. Finally, we have a federal government working to end this crisis. I thank President Donald Trump for his decisive leadership on the southern border and look forward to working with him and his Administration to secure the border and make America safe again.”
Launched in 2023, the Texas Tactical Border Force is a part of Governor Abbott’s comprehensive border security mission. Under Operation Lone Star, Texas has deployed thousands of Texas National Guard soldiers and Texas Department of Public Safety troopers to the border, apprehended more than 530,800 illegal immigrants, arrested over 50,300 criminals, and seized more than 622 million lethal doses of fentanyl—enough to kill every man, woman, and child in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Lady Cats Took on the North Lamar Panthers January 24th in Basketball Action
January 26, 2025 – The Sulphur Springs Lady Cats competed against the North Lamar Lady Panthers in a fierce Basketball challenge January 24, 2025. The exciting game was played in Wildcats Gym in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Check out KSST’s coverage of the exciting game below, where KSST’s Sports Director John Mark Dempsey called Play by Play and the Tony Flippin provided Color Commentary!
Paris District Road Report for Week of January 27, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting January 27, 2025. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Safety Message: Impaired driving and penalties – DUI & DWI
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can risk your life and the lives of others, and it can send you to jail. If you are under 21, it is illegal for you to drive with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system.
When am I legally intoxicated?
You are legally intoxicated in Texas when your blood alcohol concentration reaches 0.08 percent, but you are breaking the law as soon as drugs or alcohol affect your driving — or flying or boating — ability.
What are the penalties for a DWI?
First offense
- Up to a $2,000 fine.
- Up to 180 days in jail upon conviction with three mandatory days.
- Loss of driver license up to a year.
Second offense
- Up to a $4,000 fine.
- One month to a year in jail upon conviction.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
Third offense
- A $10,000 fine.
- Two to 10 years in prison.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
These fines do not include a state fine of $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000 assessed upon sentencing.
Impaired driving with a child passenger
- You will be charged with child endangerment if you’re driving impaired with children under 15.
- You will be additionally fined up to $10,000.
- You could be put in jail for up to two years.
- You will lose your driver’s license for another 180 days.
Driving with an open container
Carrying an open container of alcohol in your vehicle, even if you’re not impaired, is illegal. Learn more about Texas open container laws.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
Grayson County:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Grayson County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: Spur 316 from SH 289 to FM 120, FM 120 in Denison from Houston Avenue to FM 1753, US 69 in Denison from Houston Avenue SH 56, FM 1417 from FM 691 to US 82, US 82 from FM 901 to FM 1417, US 82 frontage roads from FM 1417 to FM 1417, SH 56 from US 82 to SH 289, Spur 129 from US 377 to SH 56, FM 1417 from SH 56 to SH 11, SH 289 in Gunter from Kerfoot Road to Elm Street, FS 121 from FM 121 to the Denton County line, SH 5 in Van Alstyne from Redden Road to the Collin County line, SH 56 from SH 11 to FM 1417, SH 11 from SH 56 to FM 697, FM 902 in Tom Bean from SH 11 to King Street. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 75, from US 82 to North Loy Lake Road. This project will rebuild and widen the US 75 mainlanes from four lanes to six lanes as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at FM 691, Iron Ore Creek and Spur 503, and add U-turn bridges at Loy Lake Road in Sherman and Spur 503 in Denison. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the mainlanes of US 75 as well as frontage road lane closures within the project.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the overpass to southbound US 75 has been removed to allow for construction of the new overpass. During this closure traffic on westbound Spur 503 will be required to detour onto the frontage road at the temporary exit ramp west of Theresa Drive and continue along the frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection where traffic can make the U-turn to continue south on the US 75 frontage road to the entrance ramp before the FM 691 intersection.
The U-turn lanes for the US 75 frontage roads at FM 691 are closed to traffic to allow crews to work on constructing the middle portion of the new US 75 bridge over FM 691. During this closure traffic wishing to make a U-turn at the intersection is asked to turn left onto FM 691 and make another left at the next signal light.
The exit ramp from northbound US 75 to North Loy Lake Road in Denison is closed permanently. Travelers who wish to access North Loy Lake Road from northbound US 75 will detour up to Crawford Street, make a U-turn at the Crawford Street intersection, and head south on the frontage road to reach North Loy Lake Road.
The westbound Spur 503 ramp to northbound US 75 is closed to traffic. A temporary detour is in place to divert this traffic onto the frontage road. Traffic will exit Spur 503 onto the frontage road using the new detour, continue along the Spur 503 frontage road which runs into the US 75 frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection. Traffic can continue along the frontage road through Loy Lake Road and then take the next entrance ramp to northbound US 75.
US 75, from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set on the mainlanes for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on completing the remaining work on this project. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for occasional lane closures for the frontage roads on the northbound and southbound US 75 frontage road lanes between South Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street, as well as on the eastbound and westbound US 82 frontage road lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on completing the remaining work at the intersection.
SH 5, in Van Alstyne from Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures on SH 5 as crews work to install a shared use bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will follow along SH 5 from the existing trail at Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue, then along Tolson Avenue, then along Main Street where it will connect with Van Alstyne Parkway. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
US 377, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime lane closures on US 377 as crews work to install rumble strips, backfill the pavement and seed the front slopes. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as pilot cars and flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 121, from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the Cooke County line to FM 131 in Sherman. Watch for lane closures as workers replace the bridge railing and guardrail approaches at each bridge structure and install median barrier. During construction, bridge travel will be reduced to one lane while crews replace the bridge railing. Currently, the contractor is working on the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at SH 56, and the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at the Union Pacific Railroad overpass.
US 75 debris pickup, from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
SH 56, from US 69 to the Fannin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform spot milling on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Fannin County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: FM 2029 from FM 273 to FM 1396, FM 100 from FM 273 to FM 2216, FM 2216 from FM 100 to the Lamar County line, FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 898, SH 78 from US 82 to SH 56, Loop 205 from 9th Street to SH 56, SH 34 from SH 56 to FM 64, SH 11 from US 69 to the Hunt County line, FM 896 from Business SH 121 to US 69, FM 815 from Business US 69 to SH 78, US 69 from FM 896 to FM 272, and FM 1553 from SH 78 to SH 78. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in the Bonham State Park will have daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the main road, camping spots and parking lots within the park. Detour routes will be present during construction to allow for the flow of traffic.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge is closed to through traffic as crews work on and replacing the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 34, SH 11, and SH 78 as the detour route.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 is closed to thru traffic while crews perform bridge repairs. All traffic will be required to take the exit for US 69 and then will be able to take the next entrance ramp back onto SH 121. A temporary signal is in place to control traffic on SH 121 and US 69 during this closure. Motorists should expect delays as signals control traffic through the construction zone.
CR 4020 at Caney Creek. CR 4020 at Caney Creek is closed to through traffic to allow for replacement of the bridge. During the closure traffic is asked to use CR 4025 as a detour.
FM 68, from SH 78 to FM 271. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 28 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as workers install sloped-end treatments on drainage structures and replace bridge rail and guardrail.
FM 100, from SH 56 to FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1550, from SH 34 to CR 3610. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews perform base repairs on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2815, from FM 1629 to SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78, from SH 11 to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
Franklin County: No construction projects ongoing during this week.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Watch for crews performing striping operations. Expect slower moving traffic.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
Lamar County:
Loop 286, from FM 1497 around the north loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures and perform bridge maintenance.
CR 26320 at Morrison Creek. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 1497, from FM 1184 to FM 3426. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 33rd street to 42nd street in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures in the nighttime hours while crews improve signals, install a raised center median, and resurface the roadway.
BU 271 B, from 18th Street SE to 34th Street SE . Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
FM 38 at West Fork of Sanders Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 1184 at Robertson Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
SH 19/24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from LP 286 intersection to SH 19 . Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway, perform bridge rail upgrades, and bridge maintenance.
US 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from FM 196 North to SH 37. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews remove tree and brush from within right of way.
US 82, Lamar & Red River Counties: from State Loop 286 in Paris to Bowie County Line in Red River County. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Delta County:
FM 2068 at East Fork of Jernigan Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
SH 24, at Doctor’s Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance on the northbound structure.
SH 154, from SH 19 to BU 24. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Red River County:
FM 2120, from FM 2573 to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 1487, from FM 910 to FM 412. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Northeast Texas Trail, Clarksville, Texas. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from BU 82J to Annona East City Limits. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J at East Langford Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews perform bridge maintenance operations.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Hunt County:
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. The contractor has set barricades and is currently widening shoulders and performing ditch grading in the area. Excavation, flex base and flowable fill operations are ongoing. Work is currently ongoing at the Middle Sulphur River relief structure Mow strip work and metal beam guard fence work is ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 1563, from SH 50 to SH 2655: This is a 2.7-mile rehabilitation project that will widen the existing roadway. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. Contractor is currently finishing cement treatment work on the second mile of the project and will begin prime coat and ride test soon. New guard rail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. Driveways are ongoing and are being completed by section of work. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2642, from FM 35 to SH 66: The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. The contractor currently has paving operations and sidewalk operations ongoing. Contractor is forming rebar and working block outs for driveways near Peppergrass. Inlet prep work and installation are ongoing. Railroad coordination is underway near FM 2642 and SH 66, work will begin soon in this area. Traffic switch coordination is ongoing, and signs will be placed soon alerting the traveling public. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, From SH 34 to FM 118. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has begun replacing culverts and bridge structures. Contractor graded ditches and set driveway and culvert pipes along with SET’s. Reworking of base material is ongoing and drainage structure work is ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 intersection improvements from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor has begun excavation at FM 1903 (West side) and working on placing wire wall at FM 1903 (East side) and soil nail walls at FM 1903.The contractor is also placing embankment & Wire walls east of 1570.along with form work for Bent #3 Cap at FM 1570. Columns are being constructed at FM 1903 and FM 1570 along with the placing of backfill for retaining walls at FM 1570.Pipe/Inlets work for drainage FM 1570 is ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements from CR2511 to FM 36: The contractor will be moving barrier during nighttime lane closures and milling shoulders. Contractor has ongoing box culvert work near FM 1565 plans to restore the frontage road pavement during this time. Temporary walls are being installed and dirt work with detours are ongoing throughout the project.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt and Rains County maintenance sections will be working on SH 66 and FM 36 in Caddo Mills to resurface a section of the highway with milling and inlay. Later a striping crew will restripe this area to add a left turn lane This work will be to aid travelers in this area at the intersection during peak travel times.
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U.S. Troop Arrive in Texas to Reinforce Border with Mexico
January 25, 2025 – U.S. active-duty troops have begun arriving in Texas and San Diego to provide additional support for border security amid ongoing challenges at the U.S.-Mexico border. The deployment, ordered by the Department of Defense, aims to assist the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with non-law enforcement tasks such as surveillance, logistics, and administrative duties, allowing Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents to focus on enforcement efforts.
The Pentagon announced on Wednesday that about 1,500 troops were being sent to the border this week, as the department scrambles to put in motion President Donald Trump’s executive order demanding an immediate crackdown on immigration.
This move comes as border states like Texas and California continue to experience significant numbers of migrants attempting to cross the border, as well as related challenges such as human smuggling and drug trafficking. The military personnel will not engage in direct law enforcement but will play a critical role in supporting CBP and ensuring efficient operations at the border.
In Texas, troops are reinforcing operations in high-traffic areas to enhance the state’s border security initiatives. Meanwhile, in San Diego, military personnel are working alongside CBP officers to address the unique challenges of urban border crossings. Their presence underscores the federal government’s acknowledgment of the complex issues at the border and the need for collaborative efforts across agencies.
The deployment has sparked varied reactions, with proponents arguing that it is necessary to address immediate security concerns and manage border operations effectively. Critics, however, have raised questions about the role of the military in domestic affairs and emphasized the need for long-term immigration policy reforms to address the root causes of migration.
This initiative represents a broader federal response to ongoing challenges at the border and reflects the government’s attempt to balance enforcement, humanitarian considerations, and national security concerns. It remains a focal point of political and public debate as the nation grapples with its immigration policies.
Texas Ag Commissioner Miller Provides Agency’s 2024 Accomplishments
A 2024 Year in Review for the Texas Department of Agriculture
January 24, 2025 – AUSTIN – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller kicks off the new year with his signature Texas charm and a tip of his hat, welcoming 2025 with optimism and gratitude. After a year of hard-fought achievements in 2024, the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) stands ready to embrace new opportunities, building on its successes to keep Texas at the forefront of agriculture.
“Our accomplishments are a testament to the dedication and grit of TDA’s outstanding team,” said Commissioner Miller. “Thanks to their hard work, Texas agriculture remains the gold standard for how government agencies should serve their people and how they need to be run.”
This year, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture achieved several significant accomplishments.
These key 2024 accomplishments include:
- Texas Panhandle Wildfires: Commissioner Miller led national efforts to aid Texas farmers and ranchers devastated by the largest agricultural disaster in Texas history, the historic wildfires in the Texas Panhandle.
- Texas Dairy H5N1 Avian Flu Outbreak: Commissioner Miller reinforced confidence in dairy milk pasteurization amid an unprecedented H5N1 outbreak in the Texas Panhandle and communicated the impacts of the outbreak and measures to prohibit spread.
- Water Crisis Awareness: Commissioner Miller’s Op-Ed and several media appearances brought national attention to Texas’ ongoing water crisis, igniting a renewed conversation across the state about the importance of water conservation.
- Executive Order on Rio Grande Water Use: Commissioner Miller issued an executive order allowing Texas farmers and ranchers to use Rio Grande water for irrigation. This led to an amendment in the international water agreement with Mexico, providing much-needed relief to border counties.
- Helped Eradicate Red Flour Beetle Infestations: Commissioner Miller provided ongoing aid for both Hockley County and El Paso County during their severe red flour beetle infestations, which led to their eradication.
- Disaster Relief Fundraising: Commissioner Miller revitalized the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund by successfully seeking fresh donations. The fund was replenished with $1.3 million without using taxpayer dollars in time to assist Texas farmers and ranchers in several natural disasters in 2024.
- Advocacy Against Federal Overreach: Commissioner Miller continued his mission to defend rural farmers and ranchers against federal overreach by vocally criticizing the proposed rule to list the monarch butterfly as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act and the proposed expansion of the Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge.
- Severe Weather Response: Commissioner Miller addressed the state and agriculture community with critical information and helpful tips for navigating a historic year of severe weather in Texas. From the deep freeze early in the year, Houston’s severe derecho, Hurricane Beryl, and severe flooding throughout Texas, Miller shared effective measures to limit the impact of the disasters on homes, crops, and livestock.
AgriStress Helpline
Concerned about the increasingly high rates of suicide among farmers, Commissioner Miller established the AgriStress Helpline, a 24/7 support service operated by agriculture-aware personnel that offers support to struggling individuals. TDA continues to take an active role in promoting rural mental health awareness.
- The helpline has successfully intervened in over 250 cases.
- TDA launched the new Texas Peace of Mind campaign to promote the Helpline at the State Fair of Texas.
- TDA placed six billboards throughout the state and mailed over 103,000 postcards to producer homes.
Food and Nutrition
Commissioner Miller has positioned Texas as a leader in federal nutrition programs like the National School Lunch Program and Summer Meal Programs. His nearly decade-old Farm Fresh Initiative continues to strengthen ties between children and local agriculture.
- Federal Funding: TDA administered over $3 billion to provide healthy meals for Texans.
- Farm Fresh Challenge: 127 schools were recognized for serving Texas products and promoting agriculture. Spending on Texas products increased from $13.9 million in 2023 to $18.8 million in 2024, with a 76% completion rate.
- Farm Fresh Network: 90 producers were added, bringing the membership to 221. This network fosters connections between schools and local agriculture.
- Local Food Success: Texas schools spent $257.8 million on local foods in 2022-2023, a 70.2% increase from 2019, with rising farm-to-school participation and student fruit and vegetable consumption.
- Local Food Grants: TDA administered $22 million to increase Texas-grown products in school meals, supporting regional producers.
- Summer Meal Excellence: Texas led the nation for the third year with 38 USDA Turnip the Beet awards for high-quality summer meals.
- New Initiatives: TDA launched Texas Fruit and Vegetable Day and expanded the Health Ambassadors for a Ready Texas (HART) program to 85 high school students, promoting health and agriculture awareness on campuses statewide.
Global Marketing
From growing Texas agricultural businesses to moving Texas products worldwide, TDA works to promote the bounty of the Lone Star State at home and abroad.
- Over the past year, TDA’s international trade team traveled to Africa, Australia, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Europe, Dubai, Germany, Romania, South Korea, Thailand, France, and Mexico on outbound trade missions, opening new markets for Texas exporters and generating millions in revenue for farmers, ranchers, and businesses.
- Through partnerships with groups like the Southern U.S. Trade Association, TDA has supported the expansion of small- to mid-size agriculture businesses globally.
- Commissioner Miller remains committed to showcasing Texas’ strength in the global marketplace, promoting exports ranging from airplanes to barbecue.
Domestic Marketing
In addition to TDA’s outbound trade missions, TDA diligently worked to promote Texas products within the United States.
- Local organic producers in produce, grains, dairy, and fiber markets received targeted promotion, expanding their reach and visibility.
- Texas’ thriving wine industry saw a spotlight moment with the 2024 Vintners Cup, featuring 223 wine submissions. The top 12 winners were celebrated in a 10-page Texas Monthly spread and honored with Belt Buckle awards during the GO TEXAN Pavilion Preview Night, showcasing the best of Texas winemaking.
GO TEXAN
For twenty-five years, TDA’s GO TEXAN program has showcased products and businesses made in the Lone Star State, and 2024 was no exception.
- GO TEXAN celebrated its 25th birthday, full of monthly giveaways and an online GO TEXAN Birthday Catalogue to shop GO TEXAN partners.
- Throughout the year, GO TEXAN hosted numerous buyer meetings with retailers.
- GO TEXAN worked closely with major grocery chain partners, including H-E-B, to promote Texas products on their shelves through programs like Texas Quest for the Best.
- Now, shopping locally has never been easier. The online GO TEXAN market gives consumers access to the best products Texas makers have to offer. GO TEXAN also added a retailer log-in to shop.gotexan.org for wholesale inquiries.
State Fair of Texas
The GO TEXAN Pavilion celebrated a record-breaking year of profits at the 2024 State Fair of Texas.
- The GO TEXAN Pavilion, presented by Southwest Dairy Farmers, achieved record-breaking success at the State Fair of Texas, with over $1.1 million in gross sales during just 24 days for GO TEXAN partners—the highest in its history.
- The Pioneer Brand General Store highlighted various Texas-made products, offering fairgoers the chance to shop locally and support Texas businesses.
- TDA’s marketing division debuted the first-ever daily whiskey hour in the Pavilion, accompanied by a spinoff podcast, GO TEXAN Explores: The Texas Whiskey Trail, celebrating the state’s booming spirits industry.
- TDA’s Food and Nutrition Division also significantly impacted the fair. Staffed by more than 50 team members from Food and Nutrition Education Service Centers, their booth distributed 8,904 Texas apples, 24,000 seed packets, and 7,310 seasonality wheels, promoting healthy eating and Texas agriculture to thousands of fairgoers.
Consumer Protection
In 2024, the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Consumer Protection division ensured fairness and safety for producers and consumers statewide. Upholding transparency and accountability protected consumer trust while supporting Texas producers in delivering high-quality goods and services.
Consumer Protection
- Weights and Measures conducted 41,253 device inspections, ensuring accuracy and fairness in the marketplace.
- Price Verification and Package Inspections totaled 2,571, safeguarding consumer interests.
- Egg Inspections reached 2,158, maintaining high standards for quality and safety.
- The Metrology Lab calibrated 23,707 artifacts, supporting precision in measurements across industries.
- The Metrology Lab also earned its first-ever accreditation from the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) for Echelon III, with preliminary accreditation for Echelon II.
- Licensing processed 78,243 licenses and numerous change forms, insurance documents, and other essential paperwork.
Biosecurity Enforcement
The Texas Department of Agriculture’s Biosecurity Road Stations have made remarkable progress in inspections during FY24. Through funding provided by the legislature, they ensure compliance and safety in commodity transportation.
- Orange Road Station:
- 270% more trucks were monitored.
- 225% more trucks carrying regulated materials were inspected.
- 77% increase in violations recorded.
- Terrell/Mt. Pleasant Road Station:
- 128% more trucks were monitored.
- 115% more trucks carrying regulated materials were inspected.
- 271% increase in violations recorded.
Crop and Plant Industry Programs.
- Processed over 4,500 seed samples for analysis.
- Conducted 182 organic compliance inspections.
- Inspected 194,056 fruit fly traps.
Pesticide Programs
- Commissioner Miller held pesticide waste disposal events, collecting over 312,500 lbs. of poisonous, expired, unwanted, or unused pesticides.
- TDA conducted 4,846 Agricultural Pesticide Inspections.
- TDA’s Pesticide Lab conducted 5,920 analyses of pesticide residue.
- The agency oversaw 17,000 registered pesticides in Texas.
- TDA conducted over 1,200 Structural Pesticide inspections.
Organic Program
- Conducted 182 organic compliance inspections.
Texas Office of Produce Safety
TDA’s Texas Office of Produce Safety (TOPS) works with the FDA to shift food safety regulations from a reactive system that responds to a food-borne outbreak to a proactive one that prevents it. TOPS works to educate farms on the safe growing, harvesting, packing, and holding of fruits and vegetables grown for human consumption.
- Since the inception of the program in 2017, TOPS has worked with 5,508 farms and has conducted 239 inspections.
Livestock Export Facilities
TDA’s livestock export facilities are the gateways for exporting livestock from the United States. From cattle and horses to pigs and poultry, these facilities are tools to help get Texas livestock worldwide.
- TDA livestock export facilities processed over 283,000 head of livestock this year.
Grant Programs and Financial Assistance
Commissioner Miller made personalized grant award phone calls to nearly 850 grant recipients in 2024. The following are highlights of what TDA awarded:
- Grants for Home-Delivered Meal organizations.
- Specialty Crop Block Program grants to promote Texas specialty crops.
- 28 grants supporting young farmers through the Young Farmer Grant Program.
- 144 Community Development Block Grant grants were made to 139 unique communities for water, wastewater, street, and drainage infrastructure projects, pedestrian infrastructure, including sidewalks and lighting in downtown areas for rural communities, and fire protection equipment and facilities.
State Office of Rural Health
Dedicated to serving the health needs of rural Texas, TDA’s State Office of Rural Health (SORH) staff work with local healthcare providers and other partners to support access to quality health care for rural Texans.
- SORH staff conducted site visits to rural Texas hospitals and in-person quality improvement boot camps for Chief Nursing Officers, leadership, and frontline staff.
- SORH continued its efforts to provide financial and operational technical assistance to the 366 Rural Health Clinics (RHC) in Texas.
- In 2024, TDA and SORH were able to grant funds for the following:
- 115 rural hospitals through the Small Rural Hospital Investment Program.
- 34 rural hospitals use the Capital Improvement Program for equipment or construction projects.
- Rural hospitals across the state to improve broadband capabilities.
Policy, Communications, and External Relations
In 2024, the Texas Department of Agriculture substantially impacted Texas agriculture through legislative leadership, crisis management, and effective communication.
Policy & External Relations
- The legislative team built strong connections with state counterparts and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, advancing farm bill priorities and collaborating on industry issues.
- HB 3323 created the Texas Food System Security and Resiliency Planning Council, which is led by TDA and made up of members appointed by Commissioner Miller and Governor Abbott. The council met four times in 2024 and began developing a state food system security plan.
Communications
- This year, Communications released 64 public statements, a staggering 200% increase over 2023.
- Agency social media impressions soared past 4.5 million, doubling the previous year’s total.
- News mentions of Commissioner Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture rose 111%, totaling 14.1K mentions—an average of 42 mentions per day.
- This achievement made TDA the most-mentioned state agency in Texas in 2024.
- Commissioner Miller ranked in the top 5 for media mentions among Texas elected officials in 2024.
- The 50th anniversary of the Family Land Heritage program was celebrated, honoring families who have kept land in agricultural production for a century or more.
Information Technology
- The IT team developed and launched a chatbot on the public-facing website. The bot provides after-hours and weekend support for user inquiries and earned recognition for Innovation at the Texas Digital Summit.
- The team successfully created 47+ security and role-based user stories for the high-priority Texas Automated Nutrition System (TANS) project, playing a key role in its successful launch.
- IT documented and cross-trained on mission-critical production support processes, mitigating risk and ensuring uninterrupted agency operations.
- The department handled over 9,500 service desk tickets, maintaining smooth day-to-day operations.
- Throughout the year, IT worked diligently to mitigate cyberattacks and disruptions, including the global CrowdStrike outage, by mobilizing quickly and effectively and responding to Incidents, minimizing the impact on TDA.
- IT thwarted three cyberattacks from international threat actors, ensuring the security of TDA’s digital infrastructure.
Operations and Emergency Management
Electronic Fleet Mileage Use Reports
- Operational Support Fleet Management worked with Samsara GPS representatives and TDA Information Technology to bring the latest technology into our TDA fleet this year. This device allows for an accurate and efficient electronic recording and reporting of information to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts monthly.
Legal
In 2024, the Texas Department of Agriculture demonstrated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and enforcement through several key accomplishments.
- The department efficiently managed 564 Public Information Requests.
- Additionally, it processed 142 subpoenas and issued 960 violations, underscoring its dedication to upholding regulations and ensuring compliance across Texas.
“Texas Agriculture touches the lives of Americans every day,” Commissioner Miller said. “We have accomplished a lot in the last year but aren’t done yet! Here’s to a prosperous 2025. May God bless you, your families, and the great State of Texas.”
For the PDF version of this report, please follow this link.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott Calls on Congress to Repay Border Defense Costs
January 24, 2025 – Texas Governor Greg Abbott has formally called on the U.S. Congress to provide reimbursement for the substantial expenses Texas has incurred in addressing the ongoing border crisis. Abbott has argued that Texas has taken extraordinary measures to secure the border in the absence of sufficient federal action. These measures include deploying the Texas National Guard and Department of Public Safety officers, constructing physical barriers, and implementing operations aimed at curbing illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Abbott contends that these efforts, while essential, have placed an immense financial strain on the state’s budget.
“President Biden’s policies left Texas and the rest of America defenseless against an unprecedented infiltration of violent criminals, known terrorists, and other hostile foreign actors, like the dangerous Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua,” reads the letters. “I launched Operation Lone Star (OLS) to combat these threats to all Americans. Over the past four years, OLS efforts successfully reduced illegal immigration into Texas by 87%, demonstrated the ongoing effectiveness of President Donald Trump’s border measures, and shone a spotlight on a national crisis. In total, Texas has spent over $11.1 billion to protect the nation and secure the border. Accordingly, I am formally requesting that the federal government reimburse Texas for these costs in full.”
Governor Abbott asserts that securing the border is primarily a federal responsibility under the Constitution. However, given the perceived inaction of federal authorities, Texas has had to act independently to safeguard its residents and uphold national security. Abbott’s request emphasizes that these expenditures have not only benefited Texas but also served to protect other states from the ripple effects of unchecked illegal immigration, such as the spread of illicit drugs and human trafficking.
The governor has highlighted that Texas taxpayers have borne billions of dollars in costs to address what he describes as a federally created crisis. He has urged Congress to allocate funds specifically to reimburse the state, arguing that it is both a matter of fairness and a practical necessity to ensure the sustainability of Texas’s border security operations.
Abbott’s appeal comes amidst growing political tensions over immigration policies, with Republicans and Democrats divided over the best approach to manage the border. While some lawmakers agree with Abbott’s call for federal reimbursement, others criticize his administration’s policies, questioning their effectiveness and humanitarian impact. The debate underscores the broader national challenges in achieving bipartisan solutions to immigration and border security.
A Great Man was Honored January 20th and Here is KSST’s Coverage
January 24, 2025 – Martin Luther King was honored January 20, 2025 with The 35th Annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Ceremony at Morning Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Dr. H. B. Nash is the Pastor. Brother Danny Hynson served as Master of Ceremonies. The event highlighted Dr. King’s importance and the significance of his Dream and what it means to everyone, even still today. The ceremony recognized individuals of the community who stand as examples to Martin Luther King’s Dream and vision of a better world. Categories recognized this January 20th include Bank of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Educator of the Year, Woman of the Year, and Man of the Year. Check out KSST’s coverage of this special ceremony below.
Weekly Senior Center Activities with Meal A Day Menu
January 23, 2025 – Check out what the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center has in store for the community this week, this month, and upcoming months! This post also includes the Meal A Day Menu for January 27th, 2025 through January 31st, 2025.
