Hopkins County Sheriff Warns Public About Cryptocurrency Scams
December 26, 2025 – The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public about increased activity in scams involving money transfers through cryptocurrency ATMs. In a recent Facebook post, HCSO shared the following information:
STOP CRYPTOCURRENCY SCAMS
Protect yourself and your loved ones! Cryptocurrency scams are on the rise. If someone asks you to pay a fine, “fix” a computer virus, or keep an investment secret using crypto, it’s a scam. Remember: crypto transactions are irreversible.
Does this sound familiar?
Were you encouraged to send cryptocurrency to repair a virus on your computer?
Were you told the only way to protect your money was by making deposits to cryptocurrency ATMs?
Did someone ask you to lie to the bank or keep the reason for your cryptocurrency purchase a secret?
Are you in a relationship with someone online who is asking you to send them cryptocurrency purchased at an ATM?
Has anyone promised high returns on a cryptocurrency investment?
Did someone representing a government agency or law enforcement organization call and request you provide cryptocurrency to satisfy a warrant, a fine, or to post a bond for a relative in jail or prison?
Scammers may use cryptocurrencies because the transactions are irreversible and hard to trace.
If you suspect you are being scammed please contact the Sheriff’s Office for assistance before any transactions. 903-438-4040
Some Student Loan Borrowers Set To Receive Wage Garnishment Letters
December 26, 2025 – The Trump administration said on Tuesday that it will begin garnishing the wages of student loan borrowers who are in default early next year.
The Department of Education said it will send notices to approximately 1,000 borrowers the week of January 7, with more notices to come at an increasing scale each month.
Millions of borrowers are considered in default, meaning they are 270 days past due on their payments. The department must give borrowers 30 days notice before their wages can be garnished.
The department said it will begin collection activities, “only after student and parent borrowers have been provided sufficient notice and opportunity to repay their loans.”
In May, the Trump administration ended the pandemic-era pause on student loan payments, beginning to collect on defaulted debt through withholding tax refunds and other federal payments to borrowers.
The move ended a period of leniency for student loan borrowers. Payments restarted in October of 2023, but the Biden administration extended a grace period of one year. Since March 2020, no federal student loans had been referred for collection, including those in default, until the Trump administration’s changes earlier this year.
The Biden administration tried multiple times to give broad forgiveness to student loans, but those efforts were eventually stopped by courts.
Persis Yu, deputy executive director for the Student Borrower Protection Center, criticized the decision to begin garnishing wages, and said the department had failed to sufficiently help borrowers find affordable payment options.
“At a time when families across the country are struggling with stagnant wages and an affordability crisis, this administration’s decision to garnish wages from defaulted student loan borrowers is cruel, unnecessary, and irresponsible,” Yu said in a statement. “As millions of borrowers sit on the precipice of default, this Administration is using its self-inflicted limited resources to seize borrowers’ wages instead of defending borrowers’ right to affordable payments.”
U.S. Ban on New Foreign-Made Draws Pushback From Farmers and China
December 26, 2025 – The Trump administration has imposed a sweeping ban on new foreign-made drones and key components, prompting criticism from U.S. agriculture groups and sharp condemnation from China.
The Federal Communications Commission announced Monday that drones and critical parts manufactured outside the United States pose an “unacceptable” national security risk and will no longer be approved for use. The FCC cited heightened security concerns ahead of major upcoming events, including the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration in 2026 and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
China, home to the world’s largest drone manufacturers, strongly objected to the move. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian accused Washington of “overstretching the concept of national security” and targeting Chinese companies through discriminatory policies.
U.S. farm groups also raised alarms, noting that foreign-made drones dominate the agricultural market and are vital for precision application of fertilizers and crop protection products. With many farmers facing tight margins due to high input costs, industry leaders warned the ban could increase expenses and limit efficiency.
“Sudden restrictions without available domestic alternatives risk adding new financial and operational burdens,” the American Soybean Association said.
Supporters of the ban, including Sen. Rick Scott of Florida, praised the action as a step toward reducing reliance on Chinese technology and boosting American manufacturing.
The FCC said existing drones may continue to be used, though industry groups warned uncertainty remains about future availability and potential waivers.
Commissioner Miller Celebrates Passage of Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act
December 24, 2025 – Commissioner Miller oversees the nation’s top USDA Healthy School Meals Incentives program in Texas and is a longtime champion of health and nutrition improvements in Texas schools as the pioneer of Texas’s Farm Fresh Initiative. The following statement may be attributed to Commissioner Miller following the passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025:
“Make America Healthy Again is about a whole lot more than just fixing the meals served on our children’s school lunch trays. This movement is also about correcting the bad assumptions that have driven federal nutrition policy for far too long. Since the Obama administration’s school nutrition mandates rolled out in 2010, our children have been pushed into diet models that have missed the mark. Whole milk, natural fats, and real, traditionally produced foods were run out of schools, while sugar-heavy, ultra-processed junk quietly moved in.
That’s why I’m proud to champion the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, and I thank U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, a physician, and U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “G.T.” Thompson for getting this vital bill passed. This bill will update school lunch rules to let schools offer whole, reduced-fat, low-fat, and lactose-free milk options so every child can get the nutrition they need.
The science is clear, and it’s past time our policies caught up. Leading doctors and nutrition experts agree that excessive sugar, processed ingredients, and chemical additives are major drivers of chronic disease, not honest, nutrient-dense foods raised by American farmers and ranchers. And let me be clear, kids with lactose intolerance have always deserved equal access to calcium and essential nutrients, too. One size fits all, Washington D.C. bureaucrat-driven food rules simply do not work for America’s kids, and this law is a win for both our kids and American agriculture.”
GO TEXAN Pavilion Tops $1 Million in Sales at State Fair of Texas Despite Attendance Decline
December 23, 2025 – AUSTIN — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced that sales at the GO TEXAN Pavilion surpassed $1 million during the 2025 State Fair of Texas, marking one of the strongest years in the program’s history despite a significant drop in overall fair attendance.
According to the Texas Department of Agriculture, the GO TEXAN Pavilion generated $1,001,453 in total sales this year. The pavilion, sponsored by Southwest Dairy Farmers, featured products from 180 Texas businesses participating through the program’s partner vendor initiative.
“This year’s numbers show just how deeply Texans value homegrown quality,” Miller said in a statement, crediting participating businesses and the GO TEXAN team for the strong performance. “When Texans have the choice, they GO TEXAN.”
The 2025 State Fair of Texas drew approximately 400,000 fewer visitors than in 2024, yet GO TEXAN sales ranked among the highest ever when measured on a per-visitor basis. State officials said the results highlight continued consumer demand for Texas-made and Texas-owned products.
Sales totals over the past five years show consistent strength for the program, with pavilion revenue exceeding $1 million in three of the last four years. After reaching a high of $1.11 million in 2024, the program maintained strong momentum in 2025 despite the attendance decline.
The announcement follows reports that the GO TEXAN program experienced a 19 percent increase in overall participation, signaling continued growth among producers and businesses seeking to market their products under the Texas-based brand.
“There shouldn’t be any doubt in the strength and growth of the GO TEXAN program,” Miller said. “Turning in such a strong year when overall attendance was off speaks volumes about how Texas takes pride in buying local and supporting neighbors.”
The GO TEXAN program promotes agricultural products and goods produced or processed in Texas. More information about the program and membership opportunities is available through the GO TEXAN website.
Attorney General Ken Paxton Announces Launch of New Crime Victims’ Services Website
Attorney General Ken Paxton announced the launch of the newly redesigned Crime Victim Services Division (“CVSD”) website, as part of the Office of the Attorney General’s ongoing efforts to make it easier for Texans to find help, submit information, and access resources.
“Crime victims deserve clear, compassionate, and reliable resources for help when they need it most,” said Attorney General Paxton. “Our redesigned website strengthens access to vital services, ensures victims, advocates, and service providers can easily find information and support, and will help the State of Texas continue to serve those who have been harmed by criminals.”
The updated site offers a clearer structure, new safety tools, and expanded online options for victims, advocates, and service providers. Key improvements introduced in this launch include:
- Three clear paths for the most frequent users: Victims and Claimants, Advocates, and Service Providers
- More than 20 new pages with detailed guides and direct links to forms and resources
- New, secure online forms for submitting documents or contacting program staff
- An expanded Help Center with answers to common questions
- New safety features, including an escape button on pages discussing sensitive topics
- A mobile-friendly and accessible design for easier use on any device
These enhancements make it faster and safer for visitors to connect with Crime Victim Services programs and find the information that fits their needs.
To explore the new site and see all available tools, visit: www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/crime-victims.
Learn About the Current State of the Texas Cattle Industry on the Latest A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey
December 22, 2025 – Hopkins County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Mario Villarino-Gutierrez was our guest on the latest episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. Mario and John Mark discussed the latest NETBIO meeting, the threat of the screwworm, the state of the Texas cattle industry in December 2025, and more. You can watch this important segment below.
Warm, dry Holiday Weather Elevates Wildfire Risk Across Texas
December 22, 2025 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service warns that unseasonably warm and dry conditions combined with freeze-cured grasses could spark more wildfires during the holidays.
Texas is forecast to experience unusually warm and dry weather during this holiday season. These conditions can quickly dry vegetation and may support an increased number of wildfires. If strong winds and critical fire weather occur, these fires could grow large and be difficult to control.
“We have seen above-normal grass production across large areas of Texas, especially near Abilene, Wichita Falls, Lubbock, Childress and Amarillo,” said Luke Kanclerz, Texas A&M Forest Service Predictive Services Department Head. “These grasses are now dormant and freeze-cured, which means they dry quickly and can support wildfire activity when wind speeds increase.”
Be cautious with any activity that could spark a wildfire this holiday season. Approximately 90 percent of wildfires in Texas are caused by people and their activities, and during the winter holidays, debris burning and equipment use account for nearly 70 percent of them.
“With warm, dry weather and dormant grasses creating ideal conditions for wildfires, we need every Texan to do their part to help prevent sparks from turning into a dangerous wildfire,” said Jared Karns, Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief. “Follow local burn bans, maintain equipment properly and take extra precautions during holiday activities to keep Texas safe.”
Stay wildfire aware. If a wildfire is spotted, immediately contact local authorities. A quick response can help save lives and property.
Holiday debris burning and recycling
Careless debris burning is the leading cause of wildfires in Texas. Unsafe debris burning of wrapping paper, gift boxes and Christmas trees after the holidays could spark outdoor fires.
Before burning:
- Always check with local officials for burn bans and other outdoor burning restrictions.
- Avoid dry, hot and windy days.
- Keep burn piles small, locate the pile at least 150 feet away from buildings and have a water source within reach.
- Never leave a fire unattended; stay with your fire until it is completely out.
Recycling can serve as a great alternative to debris burning. Only plain wrapping paper can be recycled. Metallic, glittered or textured wrapping paper can’t be recycled, and be sure to remove tape, ribbons and bows.
“Use the “scrunch” test to tell if paper is recyclable or not,” said Laura Stevens, Texas A&M Forest Service Program Coordinator. “If you scrunch a piece of paper into a ball and it stays that way, it can be recycled.”
Real Christmas trees are also renewable and there are several ways to recycle and dispose of them properly.
Travel safety
A significant number of wildfires are started by equipment, including vehicles, each year. Take time to inspect your vehicle before you take to the highways.
Before traveling:
- Check tire pressure and condition. Sparks from rims can ignite wildfires.
- Avoid parking in tall, dry grass.
- Secure trailer safety chains to prevent dragging and creating sparks.
Fireworks safety
Fireworks should always be used outdoors on flat, smooth surfaces and away from dry grass and flammable materials. Check for local restrictions on fireworks and burn bans before use. Always have a water source nearby and call 911 immediately if a fire starts.
For information on the current wildfire situation in Texas, visit https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/wildfire-and-other-disasters/current-wildfire-status/
For more tips on how to prevent wildfires, visit https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/wildfire-and-other-disasters/homeowners-prevention-and-preparedness/prevent-wildfires/
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Texas AG Commissioner Miller Thanks Abbott for Nutrition Advisory Appointment, Vows to Expand Texas Initiatives
December 22, 2025 – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has been appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott to the Texas Nutrition Advisory Committee, a panel tasked with developing nutritional guidelines for Texans. Miller praised the governor’s decision and said he looks forward to contributing his department’s experience to the committee’s work.
In a statement, Miller said he is “honored” by the appointment and emphasized a shared commitment with Abbott to improving access to healthy and high-quality food across the state.
Miller cited the Texas Department of Agriculture’s efforts to expand school meal programs, strengthen ties between Texas producers and school cafeterias, and support school nutrition teams. According to the statement, those efforts have helped Texas become a national leader in the USDA’s Healthy School Meals program.
He highlighted the agency’s Farm Fresh Network initiative, which promotes locally grown products in schools and educates students on food sourcing. Miller also pointed to the department’s role in maintaining meal access during disruptions such as the pandemic and natural disasters.
Looking ahead to his role on the advisory committee, Miller said he plans to advocate for guidance that supports farmers and ranchers, prioritizes nutritious food, and respects parental choice. He added that the focus should be on “building on what works” to ensure Texas remains healthy and resilient.
The Texas Nutrition Advisory Committee provides recommendations on food policies and nutritional standards statewide.
CONSUMER ALERT: Ken Paxton Warns Texans About CCP-Aligned Smart TVs that are Spying on Them
December 22, 2025 – Attorney General Ken Paxton is issuing a consumer alert both warning Texans about the dangers of smart TVs spying on them, as well as providing general guidance as to how to turn off the invasive technology.
Earlier this week, Ken Paxton sued five major TV companies, including some with ties to the Chinese Communist Party, for spying on Texans by using Automated Content Recognition (“ACR”) technology. The companies sued were Sony, Samsung, LG, Hisense, and TCL Technology Group. Attorney General Paxton has already secured a TRO against Hisense that stops the company from collecting, using, selling, sharing, disclosing, or transferring the data.
“I’d urge Texans TV shopping for Christmas to avoid purchasing a television that allows Big Tech to illegally collect your data,” said Attorney General Paxton. “All across Texas, there are smart TVs acting as an uninvited, invisible digital invaders. It’s vital that all Texans know that your TV may be monitoring and recording everything that happens on your screen.”
While all smart TVs are different, below is general guidance that could be used to turn off certain data collection by some of the TV companies currently being sued by Attorney General Paxton:
- Press the Home button on your remote control to access the main menu.
- Navigate to and select Settings.
- In settings, find and select General, System or Intelligence settings from the list of options.
- Once new options appear, find and select Privacy, Terms & Conditions, Privacy Choices or a similar option.
- Inside the privacy settings, look for options called Smart TV Experience, Viewing Information Services, or similar.
- Toggle these options OFF to disable ACR.
- There may be additional options in privacy settings to disable personalized advertising. These will often be called Personalized Ads, Interest-Based Advertising, Content Recommendation or similar.
- Some smart TVs might also have DO NOT SELL MY PERSONAL DATA options.
